HealthScope Magazine Summer 2024

health & wellness magazine

Annual Oral Health Section

MEET OUR DOCTORS

Love, Care, & Healing Others

SPF IS YOUR BFF Top Sunscreens to Try

BEAT THE HEAT

Staying Safe from Heat Stroke

GET YOUR GRILL ON Healthy Recipes to Grill Up This Summer

PLUS Learn More About Cover Model Cady Kuhlman!

“Summer has a flavor like no other. Always fresh and simmered in sunshine.”

– Oprah Winfrey

Summer offers countless opportunities to boost your health. Whether soaking up extra vitamin D, taking advantage of outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and climbing, or adding in more fresh seasonal fruits and vegetables to your diet, healthy habits are easy to come by in the summer months. In this Summer issue of HealthScope® magazine, we delve into ways to support your overall well-being – physical, mental, emotional, and more! Starting with our feature “Beat the Heat,” area experts shed light on the symptoms of heat-related illnesses and how to stay safe in the soaring summer temperatures. Next, “Postpartum Recovery” highlights the effects of pregnancy, both mental and physical, and the best way to care for yourself or a loved one postpartum. Lastly, as you spend more time outdoors this season, the feature “Understanding Rabies” shares what to look out for and what to do if you encounter a rabid animal.

Popular mainstays “Her Story” and “Inspired” profile local women who continue to persevere in their daily lives, despite challenges and adversities, all while inspiring others along the way. Not to be missed, our “Annual Oral Health Section” highlights talented oral health professionals and the techniques, technologies, and practices they use to best serve our community. Meanwhile, the

Cailey Mullinix Easterly

CO-PUBLISHER

special section “Meet Our Doctors” profiles area doctors who, through their expertise and compassion, offer expert care. Much more awaits inside like beach wedding outfits, sunscreens to pack along the way, and how to reduce airport anxiety. For the family, we cover topics like enjoying quality time with your kids and financial topics to discuss with your aging parents. To top things off, we share healthy recipes and a local guided workout.

Lastly, be sure to check out “Meet Our Model” to get to know Cady Kuhlman. Local business owner, mom, and wellness expert, Kuhlman shares her day-to-day and how she puts health at the forefront of her own, her family’s, and her clients’ well-being.

As always, we hope you take a warm evening to sit back, relax, and enjoy this Summer issue of HealthScope® magazine.

Happy reading,

CHEVRON COLLECTION

One team. One heartbeat. For one you.

At Hamilton Health Care System, our team of experts works with one heart to serve you.

We’ve built an integrated care team that collaborates every step of the way and always puts you first. Not only does Hamilton Health Care System have leading-edge imaging and surgical technology to help diagnose and treat patients fast - like our EBCT scanner that can capture an accurate image of your heart in one heartbeat - but we’ve also added 12 fellowship-trained cardiovascular specialists in just 12 months.

Full-scale cardiovascular care includes:

 Open Heart and Reconstructive Surgery

 Electrophysiology

 Cardiac Rehab

 Non-invasive Care

Today, in your community, the region’s best cardiovascular care is just one heartbeat away, at Hamilton Health.

DAVID POTTS HAMILTON HEALTH CARDIOLOGY PATIENT

We’ve assembled a team of well-established and highly experienced financial professionals. It has given us the ability to address every aspect of our clients’ financial needs. And by limiting the number of clients we serve, it allows us to offer an uncommon level of service and maintain our unwavering focus on helping to create quality financial solutions.

This is what we bring to the table – and what will ultimately bring you to us. If you are an individual seeking seasoned financial guidance and the comfort of working with an experienced group of advisors who call Chattanooga home, we welcome the opportunity to sit down together.

Photographed at Ruby Falls

Cady Kuhlman talks nutrition, nature, and staying grounded in gratitude on page 78.

Photo by Hacker Medias

Publisher George Mullinix

Co-Publisher Cailey Mullinix Easterly

Sales & Business Development Amanda Worley

Design Lead, Sr. Graphic Designer Lauren Robinson

Sr. Graphic Designer Tamara Slocum

Graphic Design Intern Marietta Song

Managing Editor Rachel Studebaker

Editors Gray Bennett Kristen Dee Tory Irmeger

Editor/Digital Content Specialist Ali Lemmons

Director of Digital Marketing Ruth Kaiser De Backer

Digital Marketing Assistant Houston McLain

Marketing, Events, & Operations Laci Lanier

Contributing Writer Camille Platt

Photographers

David and Drew Photography Hacker Medias

Kristina Armstrong Rich Smith

Sarah Unger

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health in a minute Q

I had a speech disorder as a child and want to make sure I know what signs to look for in my children. What are common signs of speech disorders?

A. It’s important to understand the difference between a language disorder and a speech disorder. Language refers to the words we put together into sentences and how we comprehend words and sentences. Speech refers to the specific movements we make with our mouth to make sounds. A child can have one or the other, and sometimes both. A speech sound disorder is when a child/person has a harder time making those movements to produce sounds. Common signs include delayed babbling or delayed noise production (e.g., child saying “uh oh, oops, wow, yay”), vehicle sounds (e.g., “vroom, choo choo”), or animal sounds (e.g., “moo, woof”), difficulty saying simple syllable words like in greetings (e.g., “hi, bye”), having difficulty imitating your sounds or words, and getting frustrated when others can’t understand them. Early intervention is key. If you have any questions, or are worried about communication milestones, talk to your pediatrician about a speech/language evaluation. Claudia M. Angulo, MS, CCC-SLP

Q. My brother is a security guard at a concert venue five nights a week. I worry about his exposure to really loud noises so consistently – should he take any steps to protect his hearing while working?

A. We live in a noisy world and are exposed to occasional loud sounds. Some are exposed to harmful noise levels on a routine basis at their places of employment. It is very important for one who is consistently exposed to high levels of sound to protect and conserve their hearing. Sound is measured in units called decibels (dB). Sounds below or around 70 decibels are generally safe. Exposure to sounds 85 decibels or above for prolonged durations of time can

cause damage to sensitive tissues in one’s ears, or even permanent hearing loss. Decibel levels at a rock concert range between 90-120 dB, therefore it is of utmost importance to take precautions to protect hearing while attending or working in this environment. There are many choices available to protect one’s hearing. Contact a hearing professional for more information on the best hearing protection options available. Cheryl Ward, BC-HIS

Q. Sometimes while my daughter is playing, it sounds like she is wheezing. She also occasionally complains of being short of breath. How do I know if I should have her tested for asthma?

A. If your daughter frequently experiences wheezing or complains about difficulty breathing, it’s wise to consider an evaluation for asthma. Important indicators may include symptoms triggered by exercise, exposure to cold air, and allergens, particularly occurring at night or in the early morning. Additionally, a family history of asthma or allergies is significant. Other signs to watch for include nighttime coughing and disruptions to her daily activities or sleep. If she relies on bronchodilators such as albuterol for relief, this can further suggest asthma. As allergists, we can conduct a comprehensive medical history review, physical examination, and lung function tests to accurately diagnose asthma. Early diagnosis and an appropriate management plan can greatly enhance her quality of life.

Marc Cromie, MD

Q. I want to talk to my children about sexually transmitted infection (STI) prevention and treatment and make sure I’m giving them accurate information. What are some key things I should share?

A. The biggest error in sex education is not talking about sex. The best way to protect yourself from contracting an STI is by using a condom during oral, anal, or vaginal sex. Bodily secretions such as sexual fluids can harbor infective pathogens, and even genital skin-to-skin contact can lead to the transmission of STIs. In addition, reducing your number of sexual partners and regular testing will decrease your risk for STI exposure. Many STIs do not cause symptoms, so regular testing after new sexual encounters is recommended. If you are positive for an STI, your provider will prescribe either an antibiotic, antiviral, or antifungal for your infection. To prevent human papillomavirus, the cause of genital warts, patients between the ages of 9 to 45 should consider getting the Gardasil vaccine. This will reduce the risk of contracting HPV, which can increase some patients’ risk for certain types of cancers. Zach Campbell, AGNP

Q. A close friend is recovering from an eating disorder. I want to support her, but I’m not sure what to do or say. How can I support my friend during this time?

A. Be patient and gently offer support by asking how you can help them. This could include eating with them, listening to them when they need to talk, going on walks with them, or sharing in any of their other interests. Approach food-related conversations or activities with neutrality. Do not criticize, push, or react to what your friend eats. Learning what not to say or do is just as or more important than saying or doing the “right thing.” It is important to focus on and talk about anything other than the eating disorder. It has been the main focus for so long and they may have lost themselves. Remind yourself, and them, that they have so many special qualities not related to an eating disorder. Addie Bramlett, RDN, LDN, CEDS-C

Meet Our Experts

Claudia M. Angulo, MS, CCC-SLP Speech Pathologist, Siskin Children’s Institute

Cheryl Ward, BC-HIS Board Certified Hearing Instrument Specialist, Audiology Services of Chattanooga

Marc Cromie, MD Board Certified Allergy Specialist, Chattanooga Allergy Clinic

Addie Bramlett, RDN, LDN, CEDS-C Director of Eating Disorder Programs, Focus Treatment Center

Zach Campbell, AGNP Nurse Practitioner, Cempa Community Care

staff spotlight

SISKIN CHILDREN’S INSTITUTE

Allen Bible, DPT, FACHE

Siskin Children’s Institute is pleased to announce the appointment of Allen Bible, DPT, FACHE as chief operations officer. Bible has a doctorate in physical therapy and two decades of experience in physical therapy, business management, and healthcare operations. In this role, he will oversee daily service operations of the institute.

AUSTIN HATCHER FOUNDATION

Sarah Katherine “Kassie” Davis, MS, OTR/L

Sarah Katherine “Kassie” Davis, MS, OTR/L, has joined the Austin Hatcher Foundation as an occupational therapist. Davis has a master’s degree in occupational therapy and experience in private practice pediatrics. In her role, she will focus on empowering children facing challenges in movement, sensory processing, and cognitive skills.

HAMILTON MEDICAL CENTER

Sandy McKenzie

Hamilton Health Care System has promoted Sandy McKenzie to president and chief executive officer of Hamilton Medical Center. McKenzie has been a key leader for nearly 18 years and most recently served as president of operations.

MORNING POINTE AT HAPPY VALLEY

Alisha Landes

Morning Pointe at Happy Valley welcomes Alisha Landes as its executive director. In this role, Landes oversees daily operations in conjunction with the care teams. She brings more than 25 years of senior care experience to the role, including significant experience with dementia patients.

CHI MEMORIAL MEDICAL GROUP

Rebecca Voda, APRN-C

CHI Memorial Medical Group welcomes Rebecca Voda, APRN-C, to the CHI Memorial Family Practice Associates –Spring City. Voda has a bachelor’s and master’s degree in nursing, with 12 years of experience caring for patients. She will see patients from birth through adolescence and into adulthood at the Spring City clinic.

ALCHEMY MEDSPA & WELLNESS CENTER

Kayla Peppers, BSN, RN

Kayla Peppers, BSN, RN, has joined Alchemy MedSpa & Wellness Center as an aesthetic RN, focusing on preventative and restorative skincare solutions with natural results. She is a skilled injector with advanced training in neuromodulators and dermal fillers and is passionate about helping her clients look as good as they feel.

ALCHEMY MEDSPA & WELLNESS CENTER

Destiny Garcia, RN

Alchemy MedSpa & Wellness Center is pleased to welcome Destiny Garcia, RN. Garcia specializes in injectables and skincare, and is one of the only Spanish-speaking injectors in the area. She is also currently working on earning a master’s degree as a nurse practitioner.

CENTER FOR SPORTS MEDICINE & ORTHOPAEDICS

Meagan Moyers, DPT

CSMO is pleased to welcome Meagan Moyers, DPT, as the dedicated pelvic floor therapist. Moyers has been practicing physical therapy since 2009 and holds a CAAP Pelvic and OB Certification, bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience to the role.

don’T MISS THESE HOT DEALS AT MARSHAL MIZE FORD!

health & wellness calendar

June

15 Juneteenth Freedom Run & Walk

Get ready for the third annual Juneteenth Freedom Run & Walk! This race event celebrates Juneteenth and honors Mrs. Opal Lee, the “grandmother of Juneteenth” who campaigned for decades to make Juneteenth the federal holiday that it is today. Taking place on June 15 at 8 a.m., participants can choose between 5k, 10k, half marathon, and 1-mile walk options. blackartsandideasfest. com/events/3rd-annualjuneteenth-freedom-run-walk

22 100 Dinner

The annual Crabtree Farms 100 Dinner features food and beverages sourced from within 100 miles of the farm and prepared by Chattanooga’s best chefs, all nestled in the magical setting at Crabtree Farms. This signature event raises funds to support the many educational and community programs at the farm. While this year’s event is sold out, you can still be part of this magical evening by volunteering. Find more information or donate online. crabtreefarms.org

23 Publix Chattanooga Waterfront Triathlon

The spectator-friendly Publix Chattanooga Waterfront Triathlon is returning to the heart of downtown on June 23. Presented by Magic Sports, the competition includes a down-river swim, two-loop bike course, and scenic run along the Tennessee Riverwalk. The Sprint Start begins at 6:45 a.m., and the Olympic Start begins at 7:30 a.m. magicsports usa.com/events/chattanoogawaterfront-triathlon

29 Monarch Waystation Volunteer Day

Calling all volunteers! Reflection Riding Arboretum & Nature Center will be hosting a volunteer day to remove weeds and invasive plants from the monarch waystations on their campus. Volunteers are asked to join in at the Native Plant Nursery from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. to support the monarch butterflies in their migration period. reflectionriding .org/events/monarch-waystation-volunteer-day-june-29

30 Red, White & Blueberries

Celebrate the Fourth of July a

little early at the Chattanooga Market with a firecracker fruit – blueberries! The First Horizon Pavilion will host vendors with a variety of blueberry-themed items from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The fan-favorite blueberry pie-eating contest is also back for another year. As always, the market will have fresh produce, cheeses, meats, homemade baked goods, artisan finds, food trucks, and more. chattanoogamarket.com

July

4 Independence Day Fireworks –Lookouts vs. Smokies

Join the Lookouts for Independence Day fun at AT&T Field as they take on the Tennessee Smokies, Double-A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs. With plenty of excitement on and off the field, fans can look forward to a great game followed by a spectacular fireworks show to celebrate America’s independence. See the full promotional schedule and get tickets online. lookouts.com

Juneteenth Freedom Run & Walk

13

Burn Your Half Off by Run Chattanooga

Ready to put some fun in your run? The Burn Your Half Off by Run Chattanooga is a nopressure race event perfect for joggers, walkers, and racers of all kinds. The course consists of a multi-loop out-and-back path along the Tennessee Riverwalk, and a giant aid station at the middle of the course will boast a plethora of snacks, drinks, and supplies for all racers to enjoy. runawesomesauce.com/a/ races/burn-your-half-off

27

CDM Games

On Saturday, July 27, Creative Discovery Museum will kick off a week-long celebration of summer games and activities with a Parade of Nations down Chestnut Street at 11 a.m. featuring local community partners. Guests will “light” a large torch with their torch creations, then go into the museum to experience a variety of games and activities, including a gymnastics demonstration and photo opportunity with a three-tiered podium. The celebration continues during the week with partners highlighting several unique sports and activities, including volleyball, track & field, kayaking, and a visit from the Special Olympics. All events are free with museum admission. Learn more online. cdmfun.org/event/cdm-games ---a-weeklong-celebration

August

3 Rise & Thrive

Rise & Thrive is a free community-wide event benefitting The Everyone Project (The EP). Hosted at The Colonnade

from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., this day of fun will include vendor booths, live music, a college and career fair, food trucks, and more. Funds raised from the event will support students in The EP’s career readiness program for high school graduates. the-everyoneproject .org/event-page

3 Hamilton County Minority Health Fair

The Hamilton County Minority Health Fair is in its 23rd year! This year’s fair will be held at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga’s McKenzie Arena, offering even more space for free health screenings and interactive activities. With opportunities to volunteer and sponsor, you can help make a difference in the lives of those who need it most! sethcminorityhealthfair.com

17 Big Hair Affair

Join The Chattanooga Kidney Foundation for a totally rad night out celebrating the

organization’s founding and the first kidney transplant at Erlanger in 1989! Attendees can expect food, drinks, dancing, a silent auction, trivia, and more at The Walden Club. Come dressed in your favorite throwback outfit from the ’80s or ’90s and dance the night away! kidneyfoundation.com/ big-hair-affair

23-24 Chatt Town

Cool Down

Make a splash at Chattanooga’s end-of-summer riverside celebration. This two-day event will showcase a variety of outdoor sports, including paddling, biking, climbing, skating, water games, disc golf, music, and more. Spectators and participants can find a full list of events online. outdoorchattanooga.com/ programs/chatt-towncooldown

Big Hair Affair

numbers to know

Sunscreen should be applied 15–30 minutes before you head outside.

After the initial application, you should reapply every two hours to have optimal protection. If you are planning to swim or know an activity will have you sweating, more frequent applications may be necessary.

Vitamin D

Adults between the ages of 19–70 are recommended to have 15 micrograms of vitamin D per day. While your body can make vitamin D from sun exposure, it can also be found in different foods such as fatty fish, milk, egg yolks, and more.

According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, your heart rate should be between 60–100 beats per minute while your body is at rest. As you exercise, your heart rate will begin to increase.

Research shows that those who have quit smoking for 10 years decrease their risk of getting lung cancer by up to 50%. For those looking to quit smoking, there are many common methods that can help such as counseling sessions, nicotine replacement products, and more.

To manually check your heart rate, place your pointer and middle finger on the inside of your wrist near the base of your thumb. Count the number of pulses you feel in 30 seconds and double that number to find your resting heart rate.

LOVE,CARE, & H EALINGOTHERS

Meet Our Doctors

Compassionate and experienced, these doctors have studied, trained, and specialized in providing the highest-quality healthcare.

What follows are local men and women who are leading with the utmost in quality care.

SETTING THE STANDARD

With 34 years of experience in the field of pediatric urology, Dr. Israel Franco is known for his innovative techniques and dedication to patient care. His development of new artificial intelligence technologies – including an AI bedwetting alarm system – has set the standard for patient support and analysis. “My practice is set apart because we are innovators in the field of pediatric urology,” he says. “We think outside the box and individualize treatment, whether for urinary incontinence or surgical reconstruction.”

Nothing can replace the value of helping a patient understand. If someone needs more time to ask questions, then I want to take the time to answer and explain.”

1

DR. ISRAEL FRANCO, MD

ERLANGER UROLOGY | CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL AT ERLANGER

What accolades mean the most to you?

My peer’s recognition that I am a leader in the field and that the work that we do is groundbreaking and sets the standard for how we are to manage neurogenic and incontinence patients.

2

What would you consider to be your main strengths?

I’m an original thinker. I go beyond accepting the standard answer to find the specific reasons for how something works.

3

What do you see as the most exciting new development for your profession?

The advent of artificial intelligence will improve the quality of medicine across the board and bring other people with less experience up to the level of people with greater experience. This does not necessarily alter the decision-making for the practitioner.

4

5

What’s the key to making a great first impression?

Know what you’re talking about.

What is your philosophy when it comes to the care of your patients?

To do what is best for the patient and take as much time with my patients so they know exactly what needs to be done and what they need to do to get better.

Medical Degree: Albert Einstein College of MedicineBronx, NY

Certifications:

Board-Certified, American Board of Urology

Fellow, American College of Surgeons Fellow, American Academy of Pediatrics, Section on Urology

Recognitions:

PUTTING PATIENTS FIRST

DR. SAMUEL IGBINEDION, MD

ERLANGER GASTROENTEROLOGY

Dr. Samuel Igbinedion puts patients first. Ready with a listening and empathetic ear, he ensures that his patients’ concerns and questions are always met with understanding and care. “I love the ability to impact everyday lives positively using my God-given gifts and abilities,” he shares, explaining what led him to his vocation. “I dealt personally with health problems as a child, and this led me down the path to aspire to bring healing to those in need.”

1

What is one of your happiest professional moments?

Having the opportunity to build an advanced endoscopy unit at this institution has been the happiest part of the journey thus far.

2

Why have you chosen this field of specialty?

It’s a perfect blend of medicine and surgery. I am allowed the space to think and problem-solve with my mind and also my hands.

3

What sets your practice apart?

My practice is unique in that we offer minimally invasive advanced gastrointestinal procedures to patients. We are the only center in the region that offers minimally invasive endosurgical therapies for various gut disorders.

4

My strengths are faith, family, discipline, imagination, and dedication to my work and my patients.”

5

What’s the key to making a great first impression?

Being a great listener and engaging the patient’s questions with empathy and understanding.

How does your staff enhance your practice?

They bring a passion, great interest, and empathetic approach to patient care.

University of the Americas –Charlestown, Nevis

LSU ShreveportShreveport, LA

SUPPORTING INFORMED DECISIONS

Since 2007, Dr. Zynia Pua has been an informative voice of hope and healing for families of all kinds. Inspired to support her patients’ needs with close attention and care, Dr. Pua shares that her happiest professional moments are when she can truly connect with patients and help resolve their concerns. “I try to explain as much as I can about a person’s health concerns for them to make an informed decision,” she says. “I listen, keep an open mind, and research if I don’t know the answer.”

I love the relationships I build with entire families, and I love helping people find hope and answers to their medical questions.”

1

DR. ZYNIA PUA, MD

ERLANGER PRIMARY CARE – RINGGOLD

Why have you chosen this field of specialty?

I grew up in a small town – Albertville, AL – and most of the doctors there were friendly caregivers who did a little bit of everything.

2

What sets your practice apart?

I like to believe my patients follow me because I truly care about them, their well-being, and their quality of life. I like to spend time with them to understand how their health has impacted their life.

3

4

What’s the key to making a great first impression?

A warm smile and a genuine interest in a person’s problems.

How does your staff enhance your practice?

The care and concern they show to people and the extra time they take to help people feel less nervous. This goes a long way in making a visit productive.

5

What is your philosophy when it comes to the care of your patients?

I try to treat everyone as I would a close friend or family member, and I make a point to respect their decisions once they are made.

UPHOLDING PATIENT TRUST

DR. MATTHEW ROSE, MD

ERLANGER AT VOLKSWAGEN DRIVE

Trust is paramount to Dr. Matthew Rose’s approach to family medicine. Whether Dr. Rose is performing an in-office procedure or discussing a new treatment plan, his patients’ concerns and needs are his top priority. “One of my main strengths is matching a patient’s primary care needs with their healthcare goals. I engage in lots of shared decision-making with my patients until we both agree on a plan forward,” he says. By collaborating with his patients, Dr. Rose hopes to empower them to invest in their healthcare goals and see real change happen.

My

favorite accolade

is when patients tell me they trust me. That’s something that is earned, and I do not take it for granted.”

1

Why did you choose to become a doctor?

I decided to become a doctor so I could blend my scientific background with my enjoyment of social interaction. I transitioned from medical research to clinical medicine, and it just felt like a natural progression.

2

Why have you chosen this field of specialty?

I chose family medicine because it has the greatest variety. We deal with everything from geriatric medicine and women’s health to LGBTQ+ medicine and urgent care. There’s not much we can’t do, but when we reach our limit, we can help get patients the care they need through a hospital or a specialist.

3

What is your best advice for patients?

Drink more water, try to have less screen time, get more sleep, try to eat less processed foods, eat more whole fruits and vegetables, get in some daily movement, and wear sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day.

4

What is your philosophy when it comes to the care of your patients?

Patients have to be invested for change to happen. My philosophy towards patient care is to combine forces with patients to help them achieve their healthcare goals.

5

What is one of your happiest professional moments?

It is always a happy professional moment when a treatment I recommend for a patient works. Whether it’s a new medication, performing an in-office procedure, or some lifestyle modification a patient can implement at home, I’m always happy to hear something worked well.

MAXIMIZING POSITIVE IMPACT

Respect and relatability set apart

Dr. Robert Rudd’s practice of pulmonary, critical care, and sleep medicine. His ability to connect with patients and implement meaningful plans allows him to maximize positive results for his patients. “No matter who is in front of me, I am able to relate to everyone in some way on a personal level because I have respect for them,” he shares. “Each patient is unique, and I want to make sure I always give the best care for each individual in the most efficient way possible.”

1

DR. ROBERT RUDD, MD

ERLANGER

PULMONOLOGY AND CRITICAL CARE

What is one of your happiest professional moments?

I was once hugged by a patient who finally got relief after having trouble with severe daytime fatigue and sleepiness for years. The patient told me that his energy, his job performance, and even his marriage improved. This patient changed my life and is the primary reason I decided to pursue a career in sleep medicine. My career goal is to have this kind of positive impact on every patient I treat.

2

What do you see as the most exciting new development for your profession?

The emergence of multiple treatment options for obstructive sleep apnea in patients with CPAP intolerance is exciting. CPAP is still the gold standard, but there are other options we offer that can improve sleep quality and overall quality of life.

3

Never give up on improving your life! I am always happy to work with my patients to find a solution that fits their unique needs.”

4

What’s the key to making a great first impression?

Being personable. No one cares how much you know if they can’t relate to you.

What accolades mean the most to you?

I once received a “Best Daddy in the World” award from my son. Since he made it at home and not in a class at school, I knew it was the real deal.

5

What do you love most about your profession?

My profession brings me great joy and satisfaction knowing I have the ability to make a very positive impact on so many people’s lives. This gives me something to look forward to every day and makes going to work easy.

Beat the Heat

STAYING SAFE FROM HEAT STROKE

By Camille Platt

The human body maintains a consistent core temperature of 97.7 to 99.5 degrees. However, a summer heat wave can put that equilibrium at risk. Here, we speak with local physicians about heat-related illness and how to stay safe while enjoying the summer sun.

When heat spikes in the summer, your body knows how to regulate its temperature. Sweat evaporating off your body can cool you to the tune of two degrees for every teaspoon you perspire. But with increased humidity, the moisture in the air starts to impede this transfer.

“The primary cause of heat-related illness is the body’s inability to cool itself efficiently, leading to overheating. This can happen during prolonged exposure to high temperatures or excessive physical exertion in hot environments. In these conditions, the body’s cooling mechanisms, such as sweating, can become overwhelmed. Risk factors include high humidity, direct sun exposure, and limited airflow, which all exacerbate the body’s heat load,” explains Dr. Sudave Mendiratta, an emergency medicine physician at Erlanger.

Heat-related illness is a continuum, meaning a chain of progressive symptoms that increase in severity as you get further from your body’s ability to regulate.

Family Medicine

Physician, CHI

Memorial Family Practice Associates

– North River

Charles Tapley, MD

Sudave Mendiratta, MD

Emergency Medicine

Physician, Erlanger

Michael Tigar, MD

Pediatrician, Galen Pediatrics

“Hydration plays a crucial role in preventing heat-related illnesses by helping maintain the body's temperature and ensuring efficient function of physiological processes. Proper hydration means drinking enough fluids before, during, and after exposure to heat, even if you don't feel thirsty. Ideally, this includes frequent consumption of water or electrolyte-replenishing drinks, particularly during intense activity or high heat exposure. Good hydration means that you should still be using the restroom, regardless of how much you are sweating.” – Dr. Mendiratta

Heat Cramps

Heat cramps are the mildest form of heat-related illness and involve painful muscle spasms, typically in the legs and abdomen. This involuntary muscle tightening occurs when the body gets too hot and nutrients are lost through sweat. Heat cramps can be treated with hydration and by gently massaging and applying an ice pack to the cramping muscles.

Heat Exhaustion

Heat exhaustion is the body’s response to an excessive loss of water through sweating. Symptoms can include headache, nausea and vomiting, fatigue, dizziness, low blood pressure (hypotension), irritability, and a heart rate over 100 beats per minute. “Heat exhaustion is treated by moving out of the hot environment, removing clothing, and laying down with the legs elevated,” says Dr. Charles Tapley of CHI Memorial. Seek medical attention if nausea leads to vomiting or if symptoms worsen or last longer than one hour.

Heat Stroke

The most serious heat-related illness, heat stroke, is an emergency. This condition occurs when an individual’s core temperature has reached 104 degrees or higher and is often a result of untreated heat exhaustion. In addition to symptoms of heat exhaustion, heat stroke includes an altered mental status. This can include confusion, slurred speech, seizures, and loss of consciousness. Because heat stroke can lead to organ failure even after cooling the body, medical treatment is critical. “For heat stroke, which is a severe medical emergency, treatment must be immediate and includes cooling the person rapidly using whatever means available, such as ice baths or cool water immersion, while waiting for emergency services. Intravenous fluids may be administered to address severe dehydration,” says Dr. Mendiratta. Contact emergency services immediately if you recognize someone displaying signs of heat stroke.

Photo taken by Casey Yoshida for The Scout Guide Chattanooga

There are two types of heat stroke:

Classic Heat Stroke

Common among the elderly, infants, and the immunocompromised, classic heat stroke is caused by exposure to extreme heat during summer heat waves. Classic heat stroke is not always accompanied with sweating; instead, the skin is often dry.

Exertional Heat Stroke

Exertional heat stroke is most often observed in young, active individuals. “The primary cause is strenuous activity while being exposed to high temperatures and/or humidity,” says Dr. Tapley. “Wearing excessive clothing, equipment, and gear are contributing factors. Those at greatest risk include outdoor workers, military personnel, and athletes.”

Preventing Heat-Related Illness

Protecting yourself in the sun requires planning ahead. Here are steps you can take to maintain a safe core temperature:

• Stay hydrated. During hot temperatures, you will need to increase your fluid intake. “The CDC recommends drinking eight ounces of water every 15 to 20 minutes to replace water lost by sweating while physically active in extreme temperatures,” notes Dr. Tapley.

• Wear lightweight clothing. When dressing for hot weather, opt for light-colored and loose-fitting articles of clothing made of breathable fabrics such as cotton and linen.

• Douse your skin. You can mimic the heat exchange that happens when you sweat by standing in the rain or misting yourself with cool water. Or, head indoors for a cool shower or bath.

• Take regular breaks. Set aside time to cool off in shaded or air-conditioned areas.

• Schedule carefully. “Avoid activities during extreme temperatures,” advises Dr. Tapley. “When avoidance is not possible, frequent water breaks, scheduled rest, and close monitoring are recommended.”

Keeping Kids Safe

“Physical activity, sunlight, and fresh air are all important for a child’s health. However, during the summer when temperatures increase, they can be more susceptible to heat-related illnesses. Children’s bodies have more trouble regulating temperature than those of adults. Children have a higher surface areato-body mass ratio which causes them to absorb more heat. They also take longer to increase sweat production and otherwise adapt to warmer environments. These issues can allow a child’s body temperature to rise three to five times faster than adults,” explains Dr. Michael Tigar, a pediatrician with Galen Pediatrics.

To help children stay safe, Dr. Tigar advises parents and guardians to, in addition to hydration and general precautions, not let kids play intensely outdoors during the hottest hours of the day (noon to 4 p.m.), head indoors for breaks when a child feels or looks overheated, and never leave kids alone in parked cars. “Summer is a time for lots of outdoor fun. Taking these steps will help ensure a safe one as well,” he says.

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Postpartum Recovery

By Camille Platt

A woman’s body experiences remarkable changes during pregnancy, and it’s not uncommon to have questions, complications, or concerns in the weeks that follow giving birth. During this major adjustment, ongoing communication with a physician is key – The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology recommends 12 weeks of follow-up care postpartum. Here, we cover common side effects that accompany postpartum recovery, as well as rare complications to look out for, and share insights from local specialists on the medical care that is available.

Postpartum Bleeding & Soreness

Vaginal bleeding after both vaginal delivery and C-section lasts for approximately six weeks. Similar to a heavy period, it will taper off and lighten in color over time. It is not uncommon for bleeding to become heavy again after week three when becoming more active. It is important to wear pads until your physician clears you to switch to tampons or a menstrual cup. After a vaginal birth, the perineum is also quite sore, particularly if you experienced a tear or an episiotomy. During your hospital stay, nurses will show you how to ice the area and use a warm water spray to keep the area clean while it heals. You can also use a sitz bath kit that fits on the toilet seat for soaking. Your uterus will also contract and cramp as it works to limit bleeding and make its way back to its original size. Medication or a heating pad can help alleviate these cramps.

Pelvic Floor Problems

A group of muscles that support the uterus, bladder, and rectum, the pelvic floor can be significantly impacted by pregnancy and childbirth. In the postpartum period, some women struggle with pelvic pain, incontinence, constipation, increased flatulence, pressure in the perineum, and lower back pain. Others leak urine or struggle to empty their bladder fully.

“For new moms, the physical impact of pregnancy and delivery can be a lot to navigate and know the best approach to healing. There are many symptoms postpartum, such as incontinence or pain with intercourse, that are often dismissed as common. While these are common symptoms, they are not normal for women to go through without any support or care. Pelvic floor physical therapists can help support and guide a new mom in this new phase of her life,” says Meagan Moyers, a pelvic floor therapist with Center for Sports Medicine & Orthopaedics.

While some women’s pelvic floor symptoms gradually alleviate with time, others may be referred to a physical therapist to learn exercises to relax or strengthen their pelvic floor as needed. “My approach is to come alongside moms and support the healing that their body is already doing,” says Moyers. “This could look like scar tissue massage, abdominal wall strengthening, breath work, pelvic floor assessment, functional strengthening, and return to a specific activity or sport.”

When pregnant, women can develop a routine that reduces the risk of pelvic floor problems after birth. These habits include avoiding heavy lifting, eating a high fiber diet to prevent constipation, and doing Kegel exercises.

Jorden Watson, PT, DPT, NC

Clinical Mentor Inpatient

Rehabilitation, Siskin Hospital for Physical Rehabilitation

Meagan Moyers, DPT

Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist, Center for Sports Medicine & Orthopaedics

Maddie Storz, LFMT Therapist, Healing Bonds Counseling Services

Mental Health

Pregnancy and birth involve a respective rise and sudden fall of hormone levels in a woman’s body, including progesterone, estrogen, cortisol, and thyroid hormone. Physicians agree that it is possible that such drastic shifts over such a short amount of time may make the postpartum period a challenge. While you may feel overwhelmed or sad as you adjust to life at home with a baby, these feelings should wane after two weeks. A persistent low mood or feelings of helplessness, anger, and shame are signs of a perinatal mood and anxiety disorder (PMAD), which affect up to 1 in 5 pregnant or postpartum women.

“PMADs are mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, or psychosis that are activated during the perinatal period. Perinatal refers to the time around conception, pregnancy, birth, and one to three years postpartum,” explains Maddie Storz, a perinatal therapist at Healing Bonds Counseling Services.

“The advice I would give to someone going through PMADs is to not be afraid to reach out for help,” adds Storz. “The first one to three years postpartum can be difficult and you do not have to go through this alone. Perinatal therapists are trained in helping you build your community, grow your resources, and empower you as a mother.”

“The ‘baby blues’ only occur during the first two weeks postpartum and only last about two weeks. Anything that occurs after the first two weeks or lasts longer than two weeks is considered a PMAD.”

Maddie Storz

Postpartum Stroke

Maternal stroke is a rare complication that can occur following birth, affecting 30 out of every 100,000 deliveries. Most maternal stroke occurs in the 12 weeks after delivery, and the risk is highest in the days after giving birth. “Having knowledge of your personal risk factors following delivery, and awareness of the signs and symptoms of a stroke is crucial to stroke prevention and stroke recovery,” says Jorden Watson, a physical therapist with Siskin Hospital for Physical Rehabilitation. “The majority of readmission rates for postpartum strokes occur within 10 to 11 days following delivery. Both chronic hypertension and hypertensive diseases of pregnancy have been shown to place women at a higher risk for a pregnancy-associated stroke. However, improved blood pressure management may reduce maternal risk of stroke in patients with hypertensive diseases of pregnancy.”

A rehabilitation center is often a woman’s best option for recovering from a postpartum stroke. “For patients who have been admitted following a pregnancy-associated stroke, we have equipment that simulates activities of daily life that a mother would be performing with her newborn child: walking and carrying a baby, placing a baby in a crib or stroller, dressing the child, and nursing. Goals are addressed through an interdisciplinary approach involving physical therapy, occupation therapy, speech therapy, neuro-psychology, and case management. As physical therapists, our job is to facilitate the greatest level of independence and help the patient maintain a close relationship with their newborn baby in a safe environment,” shares Watson.

One of the easiest ways to recall the warning signs of a stroke is by using the acronym F-A-S-T:

F – Facial drooping

A – Arm or leg weakness

S – Speech difficulty

T – Time to call 911

Understanding Rabies

By Camille Platt

An animal bite can be worrisome, especially if it’s not just a nip from an overly excited pet. While it’s important not to panic, you do want to take precautions against a rabies infection. Here, we shed light on the reality of rabies and hear from local experts about how prevention is key.

Rabies is a virus that affects the central nervous system and spreads to humans from the saliva of an infected animal, typically through a bite. Untreated rabies in humans can cause serious and eventually life-threatening symptoms, but cases are thankfully very rare, with only 1 to 3 reported annually in the United States. The majority of medical intervention is instead a preventative response to any potential exposure to the virus.

Rabies in Wildlife & Domestic Animals

Five thousand animals are diagnosed with rabies each year in the United States, and 9 out of 10 of these cases are reported in wildlife. Bats are the primary cause of animal-to-human transmission of rabies in the U.S., accounting for about 70% of human rabies cases. According to the CDC, most bats actually do not have rabies, but it is impossible to tell which ones do simply by sight. Even if you find a bat in your home and do not believe you have been bitten, you should call a public health professional to catch the animal for testing. Bat bites are small and difficult to detect, so any contact with a bat should be taken seriously. Other wild animals to be wary of include foxes, raccoons, coyotes, beavers, and skunks.

Veterinarians report that dogs, cats, ferrets, and some farm animals can also carry the rabies virus. This risk is higher abroad: 25% of all human rabies

cases in the United States since 1960 were contracted by dog bites that happened during travels outside the country.

Symptoms of Rabid Animals

When an animal becomes rabid, it is because it has been bitten by another animal with the rabies virus. The incubation period – the time before symptoms appear in an infected animal – can last a few weeks or a few months. Warning signs of rabies to watch out for include excessive salivation, loss of coordination, weakness, partial paralysis, abnormal behavior, and aggression. For bats, unusual behavior – such as daytime flying or entering a home – may also be a red flag for infection.

Reporting Rabies

Ultimately, you want to report any bite by an animal to your local health department. They are the experts on trends in rabies in your area and what risk different species carry. A healthy animal that bites a human should be confined and under observation for 10 days to make sure rabid symptoms do not develop. Public health authorities should be alerted to the quarantine. According to the CDC, out of all the animals tested annually in the United States for rabies, only 6% receive a positive diagnosis. This is why the observation period is best practice when it comes to first steps.

What to do if you’ve been bit:

1. Wash the area with soap and warm water.

2. Call animal control.

3. Document the animal’s behavior before the bite.

4. If a domestic animal, have someone locate the animal’s owner and ask for vaccination records.

5. Contact your physician and report the bite to public health officials.

Treatment

Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is the standard treatment for rabies exposure and is nearly 100% effective at preventing rabies infection in humans. PEP consists of a rabies immune globulin shot near the site of the bite, which prevents the virus from infecting you, and a rabies vaccine. You can return to normal activities after receiving this treatment and will typically receive three follow-up injections over the course of two weeks.

In the event that you have been bitten by an animal, your physician may start you on PEP to prevent infection. However, there is likely no need to be alarmed. At times, this is simply the preferred procedure. If the animal that bit you (or may have bitten you) cannot be caught and quarantined, PEP may be recommended for peace of mind. Otherwise, the animal’s 10-day quarantine will dictate whether you receive treatment.

Prevention

Rabies prevention takes two forms: prevention of infection in your domestic pets and prevention of infection in yourself.

It is important to keep all family pets up to date on vaccinations and keep them close to home. A dog or cat contained to a yard and home is less likely to be bitten by another animal, risking infection. In addition, if your neighborhood includes a population of stray animals, contact local animal control authorities. Stray animals may be unvaccinated and risk passing disease to the neighborhood pets.

To prevent personal exposure to rabies, always use caution with wildlife and stray animals. Keep a safe distance, and do not attempt to approach or interact with an unknown animal. If you get bit or are worried about possible rabies exposure, contact your physician as soon as possible for advice on whether treatment will be necessary.

Q. What should the public know about rabies and the medical protocol in place to prevent it?

A. Although rare in the U.S., rabies is still a significant public health concern due to the fact that rabies can be fatal if left untreated. The first concern is a bite or scratch wound from an animal. While the majority of infections are caused by the bite of a bat, other animals can include skunks, raccoons, foxes, coyotes, and even domestic animals. The important thing for the public to know is to clean the wound with soap and water, contact local animal control, and contact the animal owner for vet records if appropriate. When there is suspected rabies exposure or if exposure cannot be completely ruled out, PEP is recommended. When an animal in question is able to be quarantined and observed for 10 days, some may choose to wait.

Todd Rudolph, MD Medical Director, AFC Urgent Care

Q. What should I do if I get bit by an animal?

A. If you’ve been bitten by an animal, you should visit urgent care. Dog and cat bites are common complaints and can be effectively treated in most cases. The provider will ask about the source animal to assess rabies risk. Due to vaccination efforts, rabies transmission from pets has decreased, but wildlife like bats, raccoons, and skunks pose a higher risk. For these bites, rabies assessment is essential, with treatment available at the ER or health department. Bite wounds can quickly become

Q. How can I keep myself and my pets safe from rabies infection?

A. The most important thing you can do to protect yourself and your pets from rabies is to maintain an annual rabies vaccine on all of your animals. Do your best to keep wild animals from coming onto your property or having contact with your pets. Frequent visitors or feral animals should be reported to animal control. Keep yourself and children at a safe distance from wild animals and never, ever try to touch them. Always seek medical attention immediately for any bite/scratch wounds from unknown animals regardless of its severity. Report the incident to your health department (the ER or urgent care should do this for you). There is a chance that post-rabies exposure vaccination protocols may be required. Ideally, the rabid-suspected animal is then trapped and tested for rabies by the health department.

Micah Woods, DVM Veterinarian, Ooltewah Veterinary Hospital

infected, often requiring antibiotics. Tetanus status will be updated if needed. Treatment includes infection prevention, pain control, wound care, and discharge instructions. A follow-up visit with your primary care physician is also recommended.

Lukisha Willett Physician Assistant, Erlanger ExpressCare

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Painted Bunting

The French name of the Painted Bunting, "nonpareil," aptly means “without equal,” highlighting the bird’s stunning plumage of vivid blue, green, yellow, and red. Painted Buntings are frequently found in dense bushes, vines, or low trees where they build nests out of woven grass, weeds, and leaves. Their diet mainly consists of seeds, with a supplemental intake of high-protein insects during the nesting season to support their increased nutritional needs.

Your Wild Birds Unlimited store in Chattanooga can provide you with the favorite foods of the Bunting and all of your backyard songbirds. We have a large variety of seed blends, along with fresh foods that they also love. Don't forget to ask about our Nesting Blend, which has the ingredients necessary to promote healthy birds throughout the nesting season.

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Oral Health

Healthy teeth are an easy thing to take for granted, which is why it’s all the more important to take good care of them. In this section, we feature some of the best dental technologies, procedures, and services that can improve the function and appearance of your smile. Through proper upkeep and the support of professionals, you can take charge of your oral health.

By Rachel Studebaker

An Expert Weighs In

“It is best to remove wisdom teeth between the ages of 15 and 26 to prevent an increased rate of complications and difficulty in treatment associated with the surgery as you age. As a general rule, it is much easier on the patient, doctor, and surgical team to surgically remove wisdom teeth in the younger population due to the overall health and flexibility of their bone.”

Ricky Johnson, DMD, FACS Oral Surgeon, Implants & Oral Surgery of Chattanooga

Wisdom Teeth Removal

This common surgery can prevent dental problems before they start.

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

An average set of adult teeth is comprised of 32 teeth. The third molars, also known as wisdom teeth, are located at the back of the mouth and are the last teeth to emerge. Wisdom teeth come in between the ages of 15 and 26 and because they are the last to emerge, they can become impacted, meaning there isn’t enough room for them to fit in the mouth. Even when wisdom teeth emerge without complication, they are rarely functional and because of their position in the back of the mouth, are more difficult to clean and are more susceptible to cavities.

Why Wisdom Teeth Removal Is Important

While wisdom teeth are often assessed and removed before problems arise, they can cause issues if left unmonitored. Impacted wisdom teeth can be painful and lead to the growth of bacteria, causing severe, sometimes life-threatening infections. As the teeth begin to emerge, they can put pressure on the neighboring molars and cause misalignment. They are also a common source of cysts as well as tumors. Other symptoms of impacted wisdom teeth include swollen gums, jaw ache, and pain when biting, chewing, and opening your mouth.

What to Expect From the Procedure

Wisdom teeth removal surgery is very common –nearly 85% of Americans have or will have their wisdom teeth removed. The procedure typically takes less than an hour, during which the patient will receive anesthesia to ensure a painless experience. Advancements in anesthesia medications and surgical techniques have aided the recovery process, including long-lasting local anesthetics that can reduce postoperative pain and the need for narcotics during the healing period.

If you have not had your wisdom teeth removed, talk to your dentist or oral surgeon. They can evaluate the position of your wisdom teeth and determine whether removal is advised as well as help coordinate the safest and most convenient time to have them removed.

An Expert Weighs In

“AI continues to show its usefulness in dentistry. Of course it does not diagnose for your dentist, but is a great adjunct in diagnosing decay, bone loss, and possible infection. In addition, it is an excellent patient education tool for anyone to be able to actually see beyond the black and white traditional X-ray and better understand the potential need for treatment.”

Kristen Conner, DMD Dentist, Northpoint Dental Co.

Overjet

This platform uses artificial intelligence to streamline dental practices.

Artificial Intelligence in Dentistry

Artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a helpful tool in healthcare, including the practice of dentistry. This technology can accurately analyze X-ray images and aid dentists in diagnostic decision-making. Overjet is a leading AI-powered platform that integrates with imaging software and supports providers and patients by detecting tooth decay, calculus (tartar), and bone loss.

How Overjet Works

This FDA-cleared platform combines the expertise of dentists and AI to drive improvements in dental practices. First, Overjet is integrated into the practice’s existing systems. It is compatible with all major imaging software and can be up and running in only a matter of days. Overjet works by analyzing dental images and providing real-time results using computer vision and natural language processing. The platform visualizes its findings as it identifies any decay and calculus and quantifies bone loss. Lastly, Overjet turns its insights into valuable data the practice can use to grow and improve. For example, Overjet can analyze past images to identify missed periodontal and restorative treatments.

What Are the Benefits?

Overjet has made it possible to extract more insights from dental images than ever before. It provides dentists with an objective second option and equips them to make data-backed diagnostic decisions. This accuracy and efficiency, in turn, produce a better patient experience. Plus, customizable configurations and platform insights on historical success can further boost practice performance.

Why You Might Need a Dental Crown

Crowns are a cap on the tooth that can address cosmetic concerns caused by discolored or misshapen teeth but are more often applied to restore function to chipped, decayed, or fractured teeth. They provide a layer of protection to the tooth that can prevent weakened teeth from breaking, restore teeth that are already broken, or hold bridges in place. A crown can also be used to support teeth that have undergone root canals or to cover dental implants. Crowns can alleviate symptoms caused by a damaged tooth, including toothache, tooth sensitivity, and discomfort while eating.

What Is CEREC?

CEREC, which stands for Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramic, is a same-day procedure that uses computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/ CAM) to place a crown. During this procedure, your dentist will first

prep the tooth by removing any decay. They will then use an intraoral scanner to capture three-dimensional images of the teeth. These images are delivered to CEREC’s computer software, which designs the crown and sends these plans to an on-site machine to create a precise ceramic crown in your natural tooth color. This crown will be ready for application immediately, during which your dentist will bond it to the tooth, polish it, and remove excess debris before the procedure is complete.

The Benefits of Same-Day Crowns

In the past, getting a crown would typically take two visits – a first visit to create impressions and a second to place the new crown. Today, CAD/ CAM technology allows your dentist to place a crown in just one visit, eliminating the need for a temporary crown. CEREC same-day crowns are a safe and convenient option for anyone looking to restore their smile, either for functional or cosmetic purposes.

CEREC Same-Day Crowns

This same-day procedure is an effective and convenient option for those in need of a dental crown.

An Expert Weighs In

“With the use of CAD/ CAM in dentistry, crowns can be made same-day, eliminating the need to wait two to three weeks for crown fabrication with a temporary crown in place. Although the cost of a lab-fabricated and a same-day crown is about the same, patients save time and money by cutting out the extra visit to come back for the permanent crown. One question we are often asked is about the strength. Studies have shown that CAD/CAM tooth restorations are just as successful as crowns made with traditional materials and techniques.”

Mandy Shearer, DDS Dentist, Soddy Daisy Smiles

•

• NO

• NO pre-existing conditions or

• NO waiting periods

Robert and Mandy Shearer, D.D.S.

An Expert Weighs In

“Smile design has revolutionized the way we do full mouth esthetic cases. It is always difficult to demonstrate how life changing a full mouth makeover would look like for a patient following all of the guidelines of their lip line, the shape of their face, the distance between their eyes, etc. With this new service, patients are able to ‘try on’ their new smile before committing to anything, which has been a game changer.”

Deena Alani, DMD Dentist, Alani Smile Designers

Smile Design

This innovative process lets patients preview their new smile.

Understanding Smile Design

Smile design is a one-of-a-kind dental treatment planning tool that utilizes digital technology to create a new, custom smile for each patient. Thanks to smile design’s detailed visualization, patients can play an active role in determining the end results before any dental treatment begins.

How It Works

Smile design is based on an in-depth digital analysis of a patient’s dental and facial anatomy. Elements such as bone structure and lip position are taken into consideration to create a smile that is both beautiful and functional for the patient’s face shape. Four steps will occur before a treatment plan is put in place:

1. Digitization. During your first appointment, your dentist will use high-definition imaging tools to photograph and scan your teeth. This step will create a full picture of your current smile.

2. Design. A digital model of your brand-new smile will then be built, based on your personal preferences and insight gained during digitization.

3. Creation. The digital model is then sent off for the creation of a temporary placement.

4. Installation. You will return for a second appointment, during which you will try on this mock-up and preview your future smile. Your dentist will make sure that the teeth are the shape and shade you prefer.

Following these steps, you will have the opportunity to provide feedback on the drafted design before beginning a treatment plan. Treatment can include veneers, crowns, reshaping, and whitening.

What Are the Benefits?

Smile design helps improve communication between dentists and patients and ensures both parties are on the same page before beginning treatment. The temporary placement gives patients the unique chance to preview their new smile and confirm they are satisfied with the design. Plus, the digital model created during smile design can be used in collaboration with orthodontic treatment, dental implant placement, and more.

Root Canals

A widely preferred alternative to tooth extraction, root canal treatment can relieve dental pain, protect against future infection, and preserve your natural smile.

What Is a Root Canal?

Teeth are made up of four different kinds of tissues – three hard, and one soft. The soft tissue, the pulp, consists of connective tissue, blood vessels, and nerves, all of which can become inflamed if bacteria enter the pulp chamber.

A root canal is a procedure that removes dead, infected, or damaged pulp from a tooth. This can relieve pain as well as protect your gums, jaw, and surrounding teeth from further infection or nerve damage and decay. Unlike tooth extraction, a root canal is a great treatment for unhealthy tooth pulp as it allows you to keep your tooth and preserve your smile.

Signs You May Need a Root Canal

• Your tooth is extra sensitive to heat and cold.

• Your tooth is dark or discolored.

• Your tooth or filling is cracked or broken.

• You have severe pain with pressure or eating.

• You have a large, visible cavity.

• You have an abscess on the gum line.

• You have pus draining into your mouth.

• You have a foul taste or odor emanating from the tooth.

A Three-Step Procedure

The procedure itself is painless, as your dentist or endodontist will use a local anesthetic to numb the affected area. First, they will open the top of your tooth to expose the damaged pulp. Following this, they will clean the interior of the tooth and replace it with a filling. Finally, they will seal the tooth back up, and in some cases, place a crown in order to prevent bone loss and the spread of infection. You may experience some discomfort following the procedure, but it can be managed with proper aftercare.

An Expert Weighs In

“When seeking root canal care, patients should consider seeing an endodontist, a dental specialist trained in treating tooth pain and performing complex root canals. Multirooted teeth like molars and premolars may be difficult to treat with standard root canal therapy. Fortunately, endodontists have experience in treating these root canal systems. When it comes to dental discomfort, an endodontist can typically relieve your pain and get you back to work the same day.”

Chattanooga Area Endodontists

Your Chattanooga Area Endodontists

Root Canal Specialists

We support the Greater Chattanooga area General Dentists and we are proud to partner with them to make every effort to help patients maintain their natural teeth and keep healthy, beautiful smiles.

ENDODONTIC GROUP PC

Kevin P. Bryant, DMD

K. Patrick Bryant, Jr. DMD

1001 Carter St., Suite H Chattanooga, TN 37402 (423) 267-1853

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Erik E. Jansen, DMD

Jason D. Latham, DMD, MSD

Cara McCary, DMD

Chad Gustafson, DDS, MSD

Rylan Gustafson, DDS, MS

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Cleveland: 690 Stuart Rd., NE

Ooltewah: 5572 Little Debbie Pkwy., Suite 120 (423) 892-3131

SOUTHEASTERN ENDODONTICS

Matthew Brock, DDS, MSD

Yvette Burns, DDS, MS 2030 Hamilton Place Blvd., Suite 380

Chattanooga, TN 37421 (423) 892-4727

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Her Story

Christy Howard on Reaching New Heights

Two years ago, I got an idea – I want to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, the tallest peak in Africa and fourth tallest peak in the world. That’s a big adventure. The training, the logistics, the planning, the necessary equipment and gear, the expense.

And to top it all off, I have epilepsy. That adds a whole other layer of planning and strategy.

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is not for the weak, so why would I want to summit this peak? Because I want to, and because I can. I accept and enjoy challenges and adventures. My husband, daughters, and I have traveled the world taking on adventures because we want to. It empowers us, it enriches our lives, and at times, it allows us to do mission work. Mount Kilimanjaro? Challenge accepted.

I’ve had epilepsy since I was 16. As a matter of fact, I was diagnosed right after I got my driver’s

license and driving became elusive. I lived my high school and college life to its fullest, worked, married, and started a family. As I got older, my seizures got worse. I had my first operation in 2013 to remove a mass in my brain. My medicines began to change my personality. My family noticed I was not as outgoing as I used to be. Sometimes I wonder who I’ve become since my diagnosis. I don’t want to lose my identity to epilepsy, and I fight daily to be the person I know I am, not who epilepsy tries to make me.

Written by Tish Gailmard as told by Christy Howard / Photography by Rich Smith

In 2019, I had a second surgery to place a NeuroPace implant in my brain. The NeuroPace is about the size of two flash drives and provides significant seizure reductions, but many still break through. The NeuroPace is a personalized treat ment that responds to my irregular brain activity and provides EEG data to my medical team, allowing them to opti mize my treatment plan. My seizures are grand mal focal seizures that affect one area of my brain, my four extremities, and face muscles and last about 40 seconds. Some weeks I have none, some weeks I have many. Mine mostly occur when I sleep, but not all of them – there is no predictability.

When I told my neurologist I was going to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, he said, “Live your life!” Before he ever said that to me, that’s been my mantra. I refuse to let epi lepsy control me. I resist the side effects of the 38,000mg of medicines, including four anti-seizure meds, that I take each week. One seizure can take away my en ergy for an entire day. My meds can make me tired, slow my thinking, and lower my motivation, but I have a life to live and a family to support, so I don’t give in.

Since I can’t drive, I rely on family and friends for rides. My father-in-law is my driving hero. I also receive rides from many others, which has opened up path ways to new friends. I’m incredibly grate ful to my army for supporting me.

As my family and I began prepping for this trek, I realized I wanted this to be so much more than a personal accom plishment. One of my friends calls me a quiet and determined warrior – I don’t speak much about my epilepsy, but this trek is an opportunity to highlight epi lepsy awareness. We decided to film our preparations, like gear gathering, local hikes, and conversations under the name Scraped Knees. We will also be filming our Mount Kilimanjaro trek, and we posted a trailer on YouTube called “Scraped Knees Trailer for Christy’s Climb.”

We want to also bring awareness to others who may be going through a battle or challenge. My husband, James, a hot air balloon pilot, and I created Battle in the Baskets where we take people on a tethered hot air balloon ride and ask the question, “What’s your battle?” We’ve interviewed and filmed people with cancer, great loss, divorce, and epilepsy. So many people face heavy challenges every day. Sharing these stories reminds each of us to offer at least a smile, if not more, to everyone who crosses our path.

I’ve been to Africa several times. I love the continent, its people, and cultures. I learned there are high success rates on particular routes up Mount Kilimanjaro and I could climb without ropes and with experienced sherpas, making this dream more attainable. Will I have more seizures at higher altitudes? Yes. Will the different time zones and weather affect my

medicine intake? Yes. Will I get scraped knees? Yes! Will I get altitude sickness? Possibly. As we approach our July 2024 departure date, none of these things will stop me from this trek. My husband, our daughters, and our team of friends and guides are ready to take on this exciting endeavor with me. There is no failure in my attempt. I want to summit to prove epilepsy doesn’t have control of me. I want to be an example for others who are facing tough challenges to lean on each other. Don’t hide the bad things in your life or be ashamed. Face them and take your warriors with you!

Christy Howard

Chattanooga

THE HAMILTON COUNTY BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTER

Squared Away

FINANCIAL TOPICS TO DISCUSS WITH AGING LOVED ONES

By Tory Irmeger

The time comes in all of our lives for the need to enlist the help of friends and family members to square away financial matters. Here, we enlist the expertise of local elder law attorney Aaron Webb, who outlines several essential financial topics to discuss with aging loved ones.

Aaron Webb Elder Law Attorney Founder, Senior Life Planner

Right Place and Time

For some families, the most daunting part of this process is starting the conversation. Webb advises that intentionality goes a long way in helping facilitate these discussions with aging loved ones: “I often advise my clients to imagine their children having these types of conversations with them, and to approach their own parents with the same respect that they would want to receive themselves.”

Keeping this in mind, be sure to start the conversation in a private, relaxed environment, such as after a family meal or during a regular visit. For the best outcome, Webb strongly advises to avoid having these conversations in a hospital or nursing home setting, as this can easily heighten tensions and anxieties between family members. Webb says, “Remember to approach the talk with sensitivity, respect, and preparation.”

Topics to Discuss

When planning for these discussions, it’s helpful for all parties to know the essential topics for comprehensive senior financial planning:

Current Financial Situation: For starters, get a gauge of your loved ones’ current financial situation, including any sources of income, living expenses, debts, pensions, 401(k) distributions, Social Security benefits, and annuities. Ideally, starting this conversation early will prevent potential challenges before they arise.

Healthcare Needs: You also want to ensure that your loved ones have adequate healthcare coverage for their needs and consider long-term care options. Webb adds, “Studies show that seniors tend to have more health concerns requiring doctor’s visits and prescriptions as they age, so having good healthcare coverage helps protect both their physical and financial health.”

Estate Planning: It’s also crucial to discuss end-of-life arrangements with aging loved ones, including updating documentation such as wills, power of attorney, and living wills. Although difficult, this conversation aims at reducing stress for all family members and ensuring that your loved ones’ wishes can be fulfilled.

Bank and statementsinvestment

Retirement account documents

Insurance policies

Deeds and statementsmortgage

Medicare informationbenefits

Estate documents

Find an Organizational System

As these discussions will take place over a long period of time, a solid goal to work towards is developing an organizational system that works for all parties involved. This can include compiling important documents, making a list of usernames and passwords, and updating any necessary information. You may wish to make copies of important documents for your own records, at which point Webb recommends, “Reassure your loved ones that you will keep these documents confidential and that you will only refer to them as necessary to help them maintain their independence and dignity.”

Collaborate with Local Pros

If you or family members are feeling overwhelmed by these conversations, rest assured that there are professionals who are able to help navigate these waters. It’s likely that your aging loved ones already have connections with financial professionals, attorneys, healthcare providers, and religious leaders, and by forging relationships with these professionals you can understand more about the specific financial needs of your loved ones in the coming years.

Webb concludes, “By working collaboratively with your loved ones and the professionals who can support them, the aging process can be made less scary and provide the calm and confidence you need to ensure that your aging loved ones thrive in their golden years.”

Reducing Airport Anxiety

By Kristen Dee

Even if you’re excited to go on vacation or see longdistance friends and family, traveling can be a source of anxiety. When it comes to battling the anxiety of crowded airports and long flights, preparation is key. Read on for a few techniques to help reduce stress on a travel day.

Prioritize Your Health and Wellness Early

Anxiety about the airport can often start before the day of the trip. Begin practicing self-care, eating nutritious foods, prioritizing sleep, and hydrating before your upcoming travel. Locating important documents like passports and downloading boarding passes ahead of time, as well as familiarizing yourself with the airlines policies about bags or seating arrangements, can also be helpful.

Reduce the Unknown

Anxiety often comes from the unknown and unfamiliar. If you don’t travel often or you’ve never been to the airport you’re about to travel in, look at a map of the layout. It’s helpful to understand how the airport is laid out, if there is construction, where the terminals and gate sections are, and how to access the parking lots. Having an understanding of how to navigate the airport will make you feel more prepared and reduce some nerves on the travel day.

Give Yourself Extra Time

Running late and worrying about missing your flight is an easy travel mistake to avoid. Make sure to give yourself plenty of time and arrive early. Checking your bags, long security lines, extra security screenings, or other delays can eat up time. Most airports recommend arriving two hours ahead for domestic flights and three hours ahead for international flights. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has a convenient app which provides data on current security screening wait times and allows travelers to report delays in real time. In addition, most airport websites offer live updates and up-to-date information on wait times, traffic, and closings.

Pack Smart

Packing a few extra items can help reduce anxiety and make your travel day more enjoyable. If you worry about the airline losing your bag, placing a small tracking device that connects to your phone in your luggage can help locate a lost bag. Headphones can help block out noise of a busy airport or the sounds of the plane. A book or tablet allows you to relax on the go with your current read or TV show. A portable charger ensures your electronic devices stay charged if you don’t have access to an outlet.

Educate Yourself

If part of your anxiety comes from the flight itself, some find it helpful to educate themselves about plane noises, turbulence, flying conditions, and more. There are videos online of pilots explaining what each noise is in real time as the plane flies, discussing turbulence and the safety of various flying conditions, and other common plane-related fears. Techniques such as grounding exercises, deep breathing, and meditation may also help reduce in-flight nerves.

Go Easy on Yourself

Traveling can be stressful. If you get nervous, anxious, or panicked, remember it’s a normal response to stressful situations. Being hard on yourself about the emotions you’re experiencing will likely make things worse. Give yourself grace and remember the situation is temporary.

5, 4, 3, 2, 1:

A Quick

Grounding Exercise

What is one thing you can taste? 5 4 3 2 1

What are five things you can see?

What are four things you can touch?

What are three things you can hear?

What are two things you can smell?

Cady Kuhlman

Photo by Hacker Medias

A nutritionist and local business owner with a passion for promoting health in both her clients at health store Nutrition World and her children at home, Cady Kuhlman is well-versed in the world of well-being. Here, Kuhlman shares more about her holistic approach to food, feelings, and family, and how she stays grounded in gratitude.

What does your daily routine look like?

My days differ whether I am home with my kids or whether I am at Nutrition World. But all days include a delicious, hearty, and protein-rich breakfast, with lots of audiobooks on parenting, nutrition, and health to further expand my knowledge. I also try to begin my day with a few things I am grateful for. I know that gratitude is a powerful emotion in creating positivity in your own emotional state. Then, pouring into clients’ health and wellness, expanding the business with new ways to reach customers to better their health, and then being a present mama to my boys.

How do you approach emotional well-being?

I am a firm believer in listening to the thoughts that come into our minds but also finding a way to not become the thoughts. I think that being an observer of our thoughts allows us to not shove away feeling because we need to feel, deeply feel. We need to feel the good, the hard, the bad, the sad, the happy, and all of it. But then allowing

ourselves to not run away and become those thoughts helps us to stay balanced. I also believe in the power of chiropractic care for the nervous system, walks in nature, prayer, grounding sheets for our bed at night, and sitting in silence to calm our brain.

What are the traits you most value in yourself?

I value that I have grown more authentic with my age. I believe I owe the credit for this to motherhood. It has allowed me to step into my fullest self by seeing that honesty, hard work, and being my real self at all times is the person I want my kids to look up to. My intention is that, when I speak, someone can feel the honesty behind my words. I realized as the years have gone by that those that I look up to the most are the people who are most willing to be authentic at all times.

What do you find the most rewarding?

At home, I find it most rewarding to watch my children learn new things as they

grow. Within our business, I find it most rewarding to watch people’s health and vitality turn around. Setting up a lifestyle, food, and supplement plan that gives someone an increased sense of well-being and energy is hands down one of the most rewarding experiences.

How do you encourage health and wellness within your family?

We value eating most all of our meals at our table at home. We are big on cooking foods from mostly farmers who we know and allowing the kids to experience many different varieties of food, flavors, and spices. All items that we keep in our house are fair game for the kids to eat at any time, because everything we keep we consider healthy. I also love our use of the 80/20 rule where 80% of the time we eat very healthy, and the other 20% we eat what we want. I don’t want our kids to feel deprived, and I know we can live a healthy life while eating a few foods that bring great pleasure!

Beach Wedding Wear

Wedding Guest Attire From Area Boutiques

Summer is the season for destination weddings on sandy shores, which calls for a dress code all its own. Here, local boutiques showcase fashionable and functional dresses to suit this outdoor occasion and ensure you’ll be the best-dressed guest.

“This gorgeous dress is the perfect choice for a beach wedding. It effortlessly captures the boho romance of a barefoot ceremony or can easily be dressed up for an elegant destination wedding. The tiered ruffles and lace-up back detailing allow for the perfect fit and the cotton/viscose blend make for easy traveling.” – Janet Miller

BY DAVID AND DREW PHOTOGRAPHY

Melissa Paryse Owner, Barn Door Boutique

Emily Hall Owner, Savannah Taylor

Janet Miller Owner, Irma Marie

The Nicole Dress in Rose Stripe by Caballero Modeled by Victoria Cassel

PHOTO

Dolores Summer Midi

Modeled by Mary

Alice Chandler

“This Savannah Taylor dress is perfect for your upcoming beach wedding given its elegant yet practical design. It features a pintuck bodice that is flattering on every shape, adjustable shoulder ties that give you either a pretty bow, halter, or a strapless option, and our personal favorite: pockets for your mid-day lip gloss touchup or tips for the bartender.” – Emily Hall

Classic Beauty Midi Dress by

Entro

Modeled by Nan Waldrep

“This midi-length dress features a pleated strapless front and a smocked back. It is adorned with a classy tropical print that is sure to turn heads. Not only is it beachy beautiful, but the comfort is top notch to ensure you have a fantastic time at a beach wedding.” – Melissa Paryse

PHOTO BY RICH SMITH

PHOTO BY RICH SMITH

SPF Is Your BFF

By Kristen Dee

Beat the heat and keep your skin safe this summer with these popular sunscreens. For the most protection, apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside, use at least a ¼ teaspoon on the face (about three fingers worth) and 1 ounce for your body, and reapply every two hours.

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Body Mist, SPF 30

The Neutrogena Ultra Sheer line is very popular thanks to its lightweight but moisturizing feel. Ranging from SPF coverages of 30-100+, the sunscreen is oxybenzone-free, contains broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection, is water-resistant up to 80 minutes, and is an oil-free formula.

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Oil-Free Sunscreen, SPF 60

This oil-free chemical sunscreen from French brand La Roche-Posay is designed for both face and body use, and it is also equipped with La Roche-Posay’s proprietary Cell-Ox Shield technology, which combines UV filters with antioxidants to protect against free radical damage.

Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen, SPF 50+

For those with sensitive skin, Blue Lizard’s line of mineral sunscreens is a great option. The mineral active ingredients provide broad spectrum protection from UVA/UVB rays and the formula is paraben and fragrance free. The brand offers a variety of lotions, sprays, and sticks for all your travel needs.

Innisfree Daily UV Defense, SPF 36

Korean skincare brands have recently become popular for facial sunscreens, including the brand Innisfree. This lightweight chemical sunscreen has a water-based, parabenfree formula that leaves a glowy finish and contains nourishing ingredients like green tea extract, cica, and sunflower seed oil. It protects against both UVA and UVB rays.

Quick Sunscreen Tips

1

2

3

Choose an SPF of 30 or higher

4

5

Apply 30 minutes before going outside and reapply every two hours

Use at least a ¼ tsp. on the face and 1 oz. on the body

Sensitive skin may handle mineral sunscreen better

Double up on protection with hats, umbrellas, and clothing 30

Making Your House a Home

FOUR WAYS TO BOOST CURB APPEAL

By Ali Lemmons

The exterior of your house is the first thing guests will notice upon arriving at your home, so it’s important that it make a good first impression. If you’re looking to begin home improvements, it may be hard to know where to start. Here, we’ve outlined a few quick changes that will increase curb appeal and take your house to the next level.

APPLY FRESH PAINT

One of the most effective ways to revamp your home’s exterior is by giving your house a fresh coat of paint. Updating chipped or faded paint can breathe new life into your home and instantly boost its curb appeal.

A great place to start is by simply painting your front door. Though a small adjustment, this can help to enhance your home while still being easy and cost effective. Or, if you’re feeling ambitious, you can repaint the entire exterior if your house requires a more in-depth facelift.

UPDATE THE LANDSCAPING

To ensure your home is looking its best, your yard also needs to be cleaned and maintained. You can make simple updates by mowing the lawn, adding fresh mulch, or removing weeds from your flower beds. You can also use landscaping to highlight the different aspects of your home. Potted plants placed on

either side of your front door can highlight your home’s entrance. Solar-powered lights along walkways can not only increase safety when walking at night, but also give your home a cozy feel.

INVEST IN HARDWARE

From light fixtures to doorknobs and more, the hardware you choose for your home can have a great impact on its visual appeal. For a polished look, make sure all of your hardware matches or coordinates in color or material to give your home a cohesive feel. Make sure to invest in the hardware that you choose for your home. Though it may cost more upfront, highquality hardware will last better in outdoor conditions and contribute to your home’s visual appeal.

ADD PORCH DÉCOR

Porches provide not only a great place for relaxation or hosting guests, but also a space for eye-catching and functional decorations. You can start by adding a matching table and chairs to make the space more usable. Adding an outdoor rug can add a pop of color to your home’s exterior and make the porch feel more comfortable. You can also include potted plants or flowers to bring extra warmth to your home’s exterior and create a welcoming space that guests will never want to leave.

COMFORT, SAFETY, & BEAUTY

Havenly Showers is your go-to specialist for quick and high-quality curbless shower conversions. Using only the best materials, including wall panels made from 100% Italian porcelain and shower pans with the highest slip resistance in the industry, our productions will ensure your safety and peace of mind. Experience the perfect blend of luxury and functionality with Havenly Showers.

WEBCAST REAL ESTATE AUCTIONS

PHOTO BY KRISTINA ARMSTRONG

inspired

Some of life’s greatest teachers appear in the form of relationships. After all, who would we be if not for the mentors, friends, and family members who continually inspire us to live well and love others? Here, we feature local ladies and the women who encourage them day in and day out to be the best versions of themselves. In these letters, we celebrate it all – major life milestones, mundane acts of kindness, and everything in between. Read on to be inspired.

Photography by Kristina Armstrong

MAGGIE BRATCHER

Mom,

inspired by

You have been with me since day one. I have always been inspired by your entrepreneurial spirit and creative talents. There are no limits to your kindness and generosity towards others. Growing up I watched you help people in need and care for all animals. You have a “can do” attitude towards everything you put your mind to. Nothing can stop you from achieving your dreams. Success has followed you throughout all of your business endeavors. There are no limits to your creativity. Your hard work and dedication have not gone unnoticed. Your inspiration and reassurance gave me the courage to open up my own online business 18 years ago. This allowed me to work from home and raise my girls during the most precious time of their lives. For that I can’t thank you enough. You have always inspired me to “take a leap of faith” because you know the blessings that wait on the other side. I have also watched you over the last 40 years make your health and fitness a priority in your life. As a little girl, I remember sitting in the aerobics room at the YMCA eating my ice cream sundae while watching you work out. With you as my role model I have also lived a healthy and active life and feel amazing every day. My girls are also following in the same footsteps as you because your inspiration is generational. You are an amazing woman and I am honored to call you my best friend, but most importantly Mom.

Love, Maggie

“You have a ‘can do’ attitude towards everything you put your mind to. Nothing can stop you from achieving your dreams.”

ELAINE RICHIE

ELAINE

MAGGIE

PHOTO BY DAVID AND DREW PHOTOGRAPHY

SHARAYAH CAOUETTE

inspired by

Kim,

Over the past five years, you’ve been a beacon of guidance and support, and have shaped me into the leader I am today. From running a women’s leader ship organization together to providing trusted marketing services in business, time hasn’t skipped a beat between us. What inspires me most is your ability to see beyond the surface and recognize the innate qualities that make each of us unique. You saw in me not just a profes sional, but a mother with unlimited potential. Your encouragement to lead with my heart, to harness my natural qualities, and to think outside the box has been a cornerstone of my journey. You’ve shown me that being a working mom doesn’t mean compromising on leadership effectiveness.

You’ve been such a wonderful example of what it means to have true work-life balance and have proven that it’s possible to excel in both areas without sacrificing one for the other. We could seamlessly transition from discussing business matters to sharing the intricacies of our personal lives, and in those moments, I found strength in your friendship. You’ve been my unofficial therapist, my confidante, my boss and friend, and I’m inspired by you every day.

Love, Sharayah

KIM SHUMPERT

“You’ve

been such a wonderful example of what it means to have true work-life balance.”

SHARAYAH

CAROLINE HENRY

“You have a beautiful skill for connecting with people and making everyone feel seen and welcomed.”

inspired by

PENNY CAROLINE

PENNY PATTON Penny,

You have been a constant in a world of change over the last 10 years. No matter what stage of life we both found ourselves in, you have always been there as a listening ear, an honest voice, a shoulder to lean on, and ultimately, a true friend.

I am so inspired by the way you love those around you. You show genuine care and empathy. You are unafraid to dive into the deep end of conversation and vulnerability. You have a beautiful skill for connecting with people and making everyone feel seen and welcomed. Those who know you know that they can be their truest self around you with no fear of judgment. It has been an honor to see your many passions and how you pursue your dreams and desires. With your faith as your foreground, I truly admire your intentionality in every step you take toward your goals – and I am so proud of you and the way you have accomplished so much. I would not be the person I am today without our friendship over the last decade. You are such a light to me and so many others. The world is so much more delightful with you in it, and I am beyond grateful to count you as a friend.

Love, Caroline

Screen-Free Summer Fun

School is out, and unplugged fun is in! From scavenger hunts to craft nights, a little extra creativity can turn a typical tech break into a tech vacation for the whole family to enjoy. Read on for more information and inspiration about going screen-free this summer.

By Gray Bennett

It’s no secret that digital media has benefits and risks. Kids and families can use screen time in moderation to learn together, have fun, and cultivate a greater perspective of the world around them. However, excessive screen time has been linked to irregular sleep patterns, reduced attention span, behavioral issues, impaired academic performance, higher risk of obesity, and less time for creative play for kids.

So how much is too much? According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, media use by children under 2 years old should be very minimal or avoided altogether if possible, and older children should be limited to one or two

hours a day. While this limit may seem challenging to maintain during summer vacation, the secret to extended screen-free fun is to get creative and plan ahead.

Start simple! Take note of materials you already have at home, and think about the activities your child typically enjoys. For example, if your child loves to explore and learn new things, you might send your child outside with a magnifying glass and a notebook for a scientific expedition. Activities like this are not only easy and inexpensive, but they also support children as they develop essential skills such as creativity, emotional intelligence, critical thinking, and resilience.

Screen-Free Activity Ideas

Ages 3-6

Make a water sensory bin. Fill a large bin with a few inches of water, and customize it to your liking for hours of fun! Add scooping tools, water-safe toys, and paintbrushes. For added sensory fun, try adding frozen toys, bubbles, or homemade paper boats.

Read a book. Who doesn’t love a good story? Make nostalgic summer memories and inspire your child’s love for learning with dedicated reading time. Reread a family favorite book at home, explore your local library, or work together to write a new story of your own.

Get creative. Cover your kitchen table with a large sheet of butcher paper and let your little artist’s imagination run wild with the art supplies of your choice. This activity doubles as a fun, stress-free opportunity for kids to improve fine motor skills.

Ages 7-12

Create a time capsule. Decorate an old shoebox or pencil case, and fill it with small, special items from around the house – bonus points for writing a letter to your future self. After your time capsule is complete, waterproof your container as needed and have fun burying it in the backyard.

Play with chalk. For high-energy kids, fill your driveway or sidewalk with an imaginative chalk obstacle course. Add hopscotch squares, “balance beams,” squiggly lines, numbers, and alphabet letters for an added math or spelling challenge.

Go on a scavenger hunt. This activity can be customized for indoor or outdoor fun. Simply create a list of scavenger hunt items, and let your young adventurer lead the way! You can even give your scavenger hunt a creative theme or hide a special prize along the way.

Ages 13+

Go camping in the backyard. Set up the ultimate at-home campsite for an entire evening of fresh air and fun. Set up a tent, play a card game, tell stories around the campfire, and don’t forget the s’mores!

Cook something new. Get creative in the kitchen, and let your teen take the lead. Try a new cuisine or work together to perfect a more complicated recipe. This culinary challenge is all about teamwork and practicing practical kitchen skills as a family.

Host a craft night. Scrapbooking, collaging, painting, upcycling, and more – there are endless art forms for the whole family to enjoy during a craft night. Gather all your preferred materials, put on your family’s favorite music, and let your imagination do the rest!

PHOTO BY SARAH UNGER

& NUTRITION

Guide to Cooking Oils

By Rachel Studebaker

Oils are used in cooking all the time, from grilling and baking to sautéing and deep frying. However, not all oils are the same and some are better suited to certain cooking needs than others. Read on to learn more about popular cooking oils and when to use them.

There are several important elements to consider when selecting an oil:

Smoke point. This refers to the temperature at which an oil begins to burn. Smoke points can range from 300° to over 500°, meaning certain oils perform well at high temperatures while others do not. It’s important to keep smoke point in mind, as oils cooked past their smoke point become burnt and bitter and can release harmful compounds.

Nutrition. Depending on your health goals, you may want to pay attention to the levels of saturated and unsaturated fats –“unhealthy” and “healthy” fats, respectively. All oils contain fats, but some have a healthier ratio than others. Plus, some oils bring valuable vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to the table. Check out the nutrition label on an oil product for more information about its contents.

Flavor. Some oils have a mild, neutral flavor while others have a strong, distinct flavor that can make or break a dish. Flavorful oils typically have a lower smoke point and are better reserved for use in recipes that don’t require heat such as salad dressings or drizzled over a dish for added flavor.

Refined vs. Unrefined. Most oils are available in refined or unrefined versions. Refined typically means that the oil has been treated with heat, giving it a milder flavor and higher smoke point. Meanwhile, unrefined are minimally processed and retain a stronger flavor while having a lower smoke point.

DIET

Olive Oil

Olive oil is touted as the healthiest cooking oil, thanks to its monounsaturated fats and antioxidants. Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is unrefined and has a rich flavor with varying notes. EVOO has a low smoke point at 375° and can be used for sautéing and roasting at low temperatures, to add flavor to vinaigrettes, or simply served as a dip with bread. Light olive oil, on the other hand, has been refined and has a higher smoke point at 470°.

Avocado Oil

Avocado oil is growing in popularity as a versatile cooking oil. It has a subtle, buttery flavor and is rich in healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. It also has one of the highest smoke points at 520°. This makes it perfect for any high temperature cooking needs.

Canola Oil

Canola oil is widely used and considered an all-purpose cooking oil. Its smoke point of 400° makes it suitable for high heat cooking including deep frying and it can also be used in salad dressings and baked goods. It has one of the lowest levels of saturated fat among oils.

Vegetable Oil

Products labeled “vegetable oil” are typically a blend of several different refined oils which can include soybean, sunflower, corn, canola, and more. Vegetable oil is neutral tasting and smelling and has a smoke point of around 400°.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil has a high saturated fat content, making it solid at room temperature, and is a popular substitute for butter in baked goods or popcorn. Unrefined has a coconut flavor and smoke point of 350°, while refined has a neutral flavor and smoke point of 400°.

Sesame Oil

Sesame oil, particularly toasted sesame oil, has a strong flavor and aroma. Refined has a smoke point of 410° and is commonly used to stir-fry and sauté while unrefined, at 350°, can add flavor to dressings, marinades, or as a topping.

Get Your Grill On

It’s time to go outside and get cooking! Summer evenings with friends and family are made all the more memorable with a delicious meal fresh off the grill. With plentiful in-season produce and lean protein options, the possibilities are endless when it comes to tasty, healthy recipes. Here, we share local recipes that’ll take your grill game to the next level.

“This dish is very versatile as many ingredients can be swapped around. You can use an array of meats for the cassoulet or any fruit for the gastrique, which is such an easy sauce that packs so much flavor and keeps for weeks.”

– Chef Andrew Millsap

Old Man River’s Grilled Blackened Pork Chop

With Garbanzo Bean Cassoulet, Garlic Wilted Spinach, and Blueberry Gastrique

SERVES 4

For the grilled blackened pork chop:

• 4 10 oz. bone-in pork chops (boneless will work if bone-in isn’t available)

• 4 Tbsp. blackening spice

• 2 sprigs of thyme, chopped

• 1 Tbsp. olive oil

For the garbanzo bean cassoulet:

• 8 oz. dried garbanzo beans, or 2 cans garbanzo beans

• 1 Tbsp. olive oil

• 1 yellow onion, diced

• 1 green bell pepper, diced

• 1 rib of celery, diced

• 1 carrot, diced

• ½ lb. of sausage

• 4 sprigs of thyme, chopped

• 2 cups chicken stock

For the garlic wilted spinach:

• ½ tsp. olive oil

• 1 tsp. garlic, minced

• 1 lb. spinach

For the blueberry gastrique:

• ½ cup balsamic vinegar

• ½ cup water

• ½ cup monk fruit sugar or granulated sugar

• 1 cup blueberries

For the pork chop, preheat the griddle to medium-high heat. Toss pork chops, seasoning, and oil in a mixing bowl. Place pork chops on a griddle and cook for 7 minutes. Turn over and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until internal temperature is 145° minimum. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. For the cassoulet, add 2 quarts of water and garbanzo beans to a medium pot. If you are using dried garbanzo beans,

make sure to soak the beans in water the night before cooking. Cover and cook on medium-low until beans are tender, about 1-2 hours. Separately, preheat a large pot on medium-high heat. Add in the oil and remaining cassoulet ingredients. Cook for 5-7 minutes. Once the sausage and vegetables are cooked, add the cooked beans. Cook for 10 minutes. Keep covered and warm in the oven on low until ready to serve. For the garlic wilted spinach, add oil and garlic to griddle until the garlic is toasted, about 1 minute. Add spinach and cook for 1 minute. Keep warm until ready to serve. For the gastrique, add all ingredients to a medium saucepan and cook on medium heat for approximately 30 minutes, or until it has reduced by half.

Samantha Burton’s

Garlic Ginger Salmon Bowls

SERVES 2

• 4-5 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 Tbsp. fresh ginger, minced

• 2 Tbsp. olive oil, divided

• 1 tsp. garlic powder

• ¼ cup soy sauce (can sub tamari or coconut aminos)

• 8-10 oz. fresh green beans (about 2 handfuls)

• 2 4-6 oz. salmon filets (wild-caught, skin-on Sockeye salmon preferred)

• 1 bag microwaveable ready rice

For topping:

• Cilantro

• Green onions or chives

• Sesame seeds

• Lime

• Cucumbers

• Sliced jalapeños

• Grilled pineapple

Preheat the grill to 400°. Mince garlic and ginger and combine with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, garlic powder, and soy sauce. Mix well and set aside for marinade to soak. Wash and prep green beans and pat dry salmon. Coat salmon and green beans with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste. Split marinade between salmon and green beans. Place green beans in aluminum foil and pour half the marinade on. Seal the foil to make a pouch and steam on grill for 10 minutes. Check frequently to ensure desired texture. Finish beans with foil packet open on flames and char to desired consistency. Place salmon on aluminum foil on the grill. Pour other half of marinade over the salmon filets. Cook for 6 minutes skin side down. Flip once and cook an additional 3-4 minutes or to desired consistency. While the grill is on, microwave your microwaveable ready rice of choice. Distribute rice into bowls, top with salmon and green beans. Add preferred garnishes.

“This dish rocks because it is healthy but also so quick and easy, savory, and satisfying. Ginger and garlic are simple ingredients, but they really elevate the grill game. I use them with some olive oil and soy sauce for most things I throw on the grill in the summer.”

– Samantha Burton, MS, RDN, LD, NBC-HWC

PHOTOS BY SARAH UNGER

KEN & DANIEL

CHATTANOOGA'S #1 FOR COUNTRY

Jacob Madole’s Resistance Routine

“The following exercises are a collection of body weight and resistance movements that we at Mad House Performance use on a daily basis to better assist our clients and athletes across all demographics. From a glute bridge hold that isometrically works the hamstrings, to a hand release push-up that provides a plyometric stimulus to the upper body, each exercise has a specific purpose while all working well together for increased performance no matter what that looks like for you!”

Jacob Madole, MS, CSCS, C-PS Owner and Personal Trainer, Mad House Performance

Photography by David and Drew Photography

Pendulum Lunges

Start with your feet standing hip-width apart parallel to each other. Begin by lunging forward, keeping your front knee behind the toe. The back knee should lightly touch the ground. From there, take the lead leg and transition into a reverse lunge. Repeat for 5-8 reps on each side for 3-5 sets.

Straight Leg Glute Bridge Alternating Raise

Begin by lying flat on your back with your legs straight and toes pointed up. From that position, drive your heels into the ground where you will lift your hips off the ground. Next raise one leg at a time in the air. Make sure to keep each leg straight when raised. Repeat 5-8 reps each side for 3-5 sets.

Split Squat Jumps

Begin in a split stance, one leg in front of the other. From that position jump as high as you can and land in the same position you started in with a small bend in the knees. Repeat 3-5 reps each side for 3-5 sets.

Band Side Steps

Using a resistance band, stand inside the band making an X which will provide tension from your ankles up to your knees. From there have a slight bend in the knees, keeping your feet at minimum shoulder-width apart. Begin by stepping laterally, keeping tension on the band. Repeat 5-10 yards each way.

Bird Dogs

Begin in a push-up position. Keeping both arms and legs straight, lift one arm and flex at the shoulder while lifting the leg of the opposite side and extending the hip. For example, lift the left arm and right leg simultaneously. Repeat for 5-8 reps each side for 3-5 sets.

Hand Release Push-Ups

Begin in a push-up position. Slowly lower yourself to the floor. Once on the floor, release your hands and then swiftly drive into the ground to push yourself up. Repeat 5-8 reps for 3-5 sets.

Five years ago, I was lucky enough to marry my best friend. So, when a stroke left him needing the nest care available, I insisted on him coming to Siskin Hospital. I knew I had a choice, and their state-of-the art stroke program would give him the best chance to get back to living. I was right. When a stroke threatened to steal our happily ever after... Siskin Hospital gave us a chance to keep on laughing. - Marsha and Bill North