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MArch - APRIL 15, 2012

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14TH Edition

PROUD TO BE...Serving Those in Health Care

INSIDE

March is National Colon Cancer Awareness Month By Dr. Vivian Asamoah

If you are over 50 and have not yet been screened, it is never too late. Early detection and prevention of colon cancer are important and could save your life. PAGE 23

Right Lifestyle to Get the Right Weight By Yngrid Pérez-Torrens

How will you lose weight this time? PAGE 12

Dr. Tamyra Comeaux, “A healthy attitude is contagious but don’t wait to catch it from others. Be a carrier. “ -Tom Stoppard

Emergency Care Training: Are you confident in emergency preparedness?

How to Fight Prostate Cancer 4 Essential Tips to Maintain Excellent Prostate Health By A Aaronson

There are many positive measures that you can take to maintain excellent prostate health. PAGE 11

Plastic Surgery for African Americans By A Aaronson

The goal of a specialized cosmetic surgeon is not to erase ethnic identity, but rather to address specific needs and challenges... PAGE 16

By Yolanda Dawson, Contributing Writer

mergencies happen every day. Not sure what to do? We will train you. ENCORE CPR & First Aid Training is a proud training site for the American Heart Association and our mission is to educate and resuscitate. I served as a proud member of the U.S. Army for the past 15 years. I now serve the Houston area by providing training on a weekly schedule to accommodate your Emergency Cardiovascular Care (ECC) needs; we continue to expand our services for the growing demands of the Houston public and community. We offer community support through Emergency Care training available at ENCORE CPR & First Aid Training. Cont. >> pg. 8

March - April 15, 2012

Behind The

Journal

Publisher’s Message

Keith J. Davis, Sr.

SR. PUBLISHER Keith J. Davis, Sr. VICE PRESIDENT Kevin Davis EDITING CONSULTANT Sharon Jenkins OPERATIONS COORDINATOR Johnny Ray Davis, Jr. ACCOUNTING MANAGER Eugenie Doualla SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Mike Jones C.T. Foster Pastor Freddie L. Davis, III Dwight Jones Eric D. Goodwine PHOTOGRAPHY

This month’s theme in the Health and Wellness Journal is “Proud to Be …” Health care providers around the Houston metropolitan area are serving others with their wisdom, research, and expertise. All of us in one way or another have been touched by the loving care of someone in the medical field. We applaud you for your sacrificial giving and salute your diligence in making this a city a healthier place to live. We gladly dedicate this issue to you. As always, thank you for your continued support of d-mars.com. When you support d-mars.com, you are supporting more than just our company; you are supporting the communities in which we live and work. Working together, we can succeed in making positive things happen.

CONTENTS I’m Proud to Keep My Community Healthy! …................................................................... 5 Soul Food Recipes. Tribute to Black History Month ………………….....……….....………. 6 Emergency Care Training Are you confident in emergency preparedness? …….. Cover, 8

L.C. Poullard

March is National Colon Cancer Awareness Month ........................................................... 9

Grady Carter

Understanding High Blood Pressure ................................................................................. 9

MARKETING CONSULTANT Barbara Wiederhold MULTIMEDIA DIRECTOR Andrea Hennekes LAYOUT & GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Ghuzzala Malik (Faith) Ferland D. Antwine

Proud to be a Thinker ........…...............……………………………………………………...... 11 Eating for Pre-Diabetes is Easier Than You Think! ….....………….…………...................... 12 National Health Awareness …......................………………………….…………................... 13 Right Lifestyle to Get the Right Weight ….......................…………...................................... 13 Identifying Your Wellness Potential …...............................……………………..................... 14 Fast Food Today …......................................................…………………….......................... 15 Positive Thinking - Think Like A Hurricane Survivor ............................................................ 17

DISTRIBUTION Booker T. Davis, Jr. Rockie Hayden

How to Fight Prostate Cancer 4 Essential Tips to Maintain Excellent Prostate Health …. 18

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Yolanda Dawson Dr. Tamyra Comeaux Roy Primm Dr. Vivian Asamoah Denver Smith David L. Bartholomew,III Gretchen Scalpi Lola F. Brooks Yngrid Perez-Torrens Laura M. Turner Stephanie Watson Elaine Currie Seomul Evans Gail Mathis Harold Noel Pinnock Christine Erickson Liz Noelcke A. Aaronson Cedric Nelson

“So…Why NOT You?”…..........................................................…...…………....................... 20

Traveling Around the Globe Just Got Better With Ardyss ……...…………........................ 19 Ten Important Tips to Lose Weight Effectively for Summer ….……..…………………........ 20 Skin Care Tips Specifically For African Americans …........................................................ 22 Measure Progress Without the Scale An Arsenal of Tools for Your Motivation ................. 22 Plastic Surgery for African Americans …............................................................................ 23 Concussions …................................................................................................................... 23 Expert Network .................................................................................................................. 25

MR. D-MARS Tip of the Month Healing is a matter of time, but it is sometimes also a matter of opportunity. -Hippocrates

“d-mars.com is certified with SBE, HUB, DBE & Port of Houston SBDP.”

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March - April 15, 2012

I’m Proud to Help Keep My Community Healthy! By Dr. Tamyra Comeaux, Contributing Writer

was recently inspired by the awesome story of Bernardo LaPollo. LaPollo is a 110 year-old native of Brazil that currently resides in Arizona. LaPollo credits his longevity to a life filled with proper nutrition, exercise and maintaining a positive outlook on life. Although I’ve never met LaPollo, I feel an inherent connection to him through our commitment in educating the world on maintaining optimal health, exercise and nutrition. As an African American female I am proud that I have been blessed with the opportunity to assist others in maintaining optimum health by producing safe, healthy and effective natural supplements that aid in maintaining an adequate source of vitamins and nutrients. I along with my staff, family and friends thoroughly test the supplements efficacy prior to distribution. Affectionately known as the Vitadoc, I offer over 100 natural supplements that aid in reducing the risk and effectively maintaining physical and emotional conditions such as; heart disease, diabetes, stress, hypertension, obesity and a plethora of illnesses that you battle each day. February is Healthy Heart Awareness month and I offer several supplements that will aid in ensuring that you reduce the risk for heart disease and other potentially harmful illnesses that affect our community.

The Healthy Heart Combo Cardiovascular Disease (Heart Disease) continues to hold first place as the #1 health concern of African Americans. According to the office of Minority Health a division of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, African American adults are more likely to be diagnosed with coronary heart disease. In most cases

by the time the diagnosis has been determined; Cardiovascular Disease is in the advanced stages and will more likely result in death. One of the contributing factors to the high mortality rate linked to cardiovascular disease is poor diet, lack of proper exercise, stress and the absence of natural supplements such as Omega 3 Fish Oil with CoQ10. For most people, there aren’t enough hours in the day to accomplish the tasks that wake you up in the morning and tuck you in bed at night. With the hustle and bustle of everyday life, the balance of work and family, ever-increasing stress and the deprivation of proper nutrients found in healthy balanced meals you walk one step closer to being diagnosed with cardiovascular disease. Instead of eating a sensible lunch or dinner you grab something quick and filled with unhealthy saturated fat and free radicals that aide in destroying the body. When you hear the words fat or fatty acid, there is a common misconception that all forms of fat are harmful. On the contrary, fatty acids such Omega 3 are beneficial in maintaining optimal health and preventing life altering diseases. Studies show that fish, a “heart healthy” food, is an excellent source of Omega 3. Omega 3 can be found in salmon, tuna, mackerel, trout and herring just to name a few. The recommended serving portion of fish rich with Omega 3 is twice a week. Unfortunately, people don’t include fish rich with Omega 3 in their weekly diet. Therefore, it is essential that natural supplements such as Omega 3 fish oil be included in your daily dietary supplement regimen. By combining Omega 3 fish oil with CoQ10 you will greatly increase your chances of living a “heart healthy” life and losing the race to #1.

Omega 3 Fish Oil

Omega-3 fatty acids from fish oils repeatedly have been shown to help control chronic low-level inflammation, moderate excessive blood coagulation, and to improve other factors linked to Cardiovascular Disease. Low levels of Omega-3 fatty acids have been indicated as a factor in Cardiovascular Disease (CVD). Consumption of Omega-3 fatty acids may reduce the risk of coronary heart disease. FDA evaluated the data and determined that, although there is scientific evidence supporting the claim, the evidence is not conclusive.

CoQ10 The primary function of CoQ10 (coenzyme Q10) is as a catalyst for metabolism - the complex chain of chemical reactions during which food is broken down into packets of energy that the body can use. Acting in conjunction with enzymes, the compound speeds up the vital metabolic process, providing the energy that the cells need to digest food, heal wounds, maintain healthy muscles, and perform countless other bodily functions. Because of the nutrient’s essential role in energy production, it’s not

surprising that it is found in every cell in the body. It is especially abundant in the energy-intensive cells of the heart, helping this organ beat more than 100,000 times each day. In addition, coenzyme Q10 acts as an antioxidant, much like vitamins C and E, helping to neutralize the cell-damaging molecules known as free radicals.

body’s natural defense mechanism nourishes the body from the inside out •Aids in proper thyroid function •Aids in weight loss •Lower blood sugar •Relieves hot flashes •Inhibits the growth of cancer cells •Inhibits the abnormal formation of blood clots

The Importance of Antioxidants

Rhodiganda is a powerful, natural herb with 500 milligrams of extracted active ingredients in each ounce. These active ingredients include a list of powerful antioxidants including; pomegranate, ashwagandha, blueberry, Acai and Rhodiola. Ashwagandha a powerful protective effects on the nervous system. Stress, environmental toxins, and poor nutrition all have detrimental impact on our nervous systems. Ashwagandha’s ability not only relieves stress, but also to protect brain cells against the damaging effects of our modern lifestyles.

Antioxidants play a key role in maintaining a healthy heart. Magui/ Resveratrol/Acai Ultimate is an all-natural product with ingredients that are found in a variety of foods such as cranberries, grapes and blueberries. This supplement provides a blend of the highest quality antioxidants that have been linked to fighting cancer, joint inflammation and cardiovascular disease. This supplement is essential at any stage of life.

Benefits of Maqui/ Resveratrol/ Acai Ultimate •Promotes longevity •A potent antioxidant that impedes premature aging of cells •Helps support the

•Increased energy •Reduced stress •Improved blood pressure and blood sugar •Improved cholesterol •Elimination of

headaches •Decreased symptoms of menopause •Increased sexual vitality •Improved fertility •Relief of pain •Enhanced memory and concentration •Improved immune system function

Treat your Body as a Temple not a Trashcan We should all strive to emulate the remarkable lifestyle that LaPollo has led. Some of us may not live to be 110 years old, but treating your body as a temple and not a trashcan can help you to ensure that you enjoy life. Keeping my community physically and emotionally healthy is something that I hold near and dear to my heart. As a physician and gynecologist, I believe strongly in the power of treating the whole person and not just the condition. For more information on wellness, vitamin and weight loss counseling please visit or call Dr. Tamyra Comeaux Natural Women’s Health Care 11811 FM 1960 Suite 104 Houston, TX 77065 Phone: 832-237-4200 info@naturalwomenscare.com www.naturalwomenscare.com

March - April 15, 2012

Soul Food Recipes By Roy Primm

rom the slave house to the White House.Soul food recipes is in the fabric of not only Black history - but American history as well. When most people think of this tasty, robust and flavorful food they envision happy celebrations and southern comfort meals that satisfies the soul. But this cuisine represents much more than a tasty, satisfying meal on special occasions or a family get together. It’s one of the most popular foods left that was originated solely in America. Surprisingly most popular foods in the U.S originated in Europe and Mexico. But soul food recipes is an American original. It’s a symbol of struggle, sacrifice as well as progress. The recipes helped to build America, one of the greatest countries on earth. Think about it, the food that nourished slaves, civil rights leaders and protest marchers, now nourish media moguls, congress men and women and even a U.S President.

Yes, it was birthed from the shackles of slavery and struggle to quietly evolve into a 100 million dollar industry. Now it’s a lucrative industry that represents restaurants, food manufacturing, book and magazine publishing, DVD’s and television shows to name a few. Yes, historically and currently soul food recipes represent a viable spoke in the economic wheel in most African American communities in America. Soul food recipes include the ingredients and history that has helped to serve budget minded families over hundreds of years. It has long stood the test of time as a recession proof tool that has helped struggling families reduce their food cost. The ingredients are the most filling and stick-to-your ribs satisfying food known to man. It’s helped untold numbers of struggling families make it through lean times and eat good for the least amount of money. Despite a temporary lapse in

popularity, because of health issues pointed out by health experts a few years ago, it has easily adapted to temporary controversy. Still the recipes remained popular while it slowly changed to healthier ingredients, cooking methods and preparation techniques. Like the people who originated it, soul food cooking continues to gain its strength and longevity from its ability to adapt to changing times and consumer demands. As the consumer grows more health conscious, soul food recipes continue to add healthier cooking techniques and ingredients to match the trend. For example, traditional seasonings like fatback, ham hocks and lard is history and eliminated from most southern recipes today. Now you’ll find healthier ingredients such as fat free smoked turkey, natural herbs and spices and healthier cooking

techniques. These new changes is used to preserve not only the flavors but the nutrients and vitamins. All these changes have helped guarantee soul food recipes will continue to make Black history - and not just be history for future generations. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Roy_Primm

Whole-Grain Buttermilk Biscuits Ingredients 1 cup whole-wheat (whole-meal) flour 3 tablespoons wheat germ 2 teaspoons baking powder 1/4 teaspoon salt

By Mayo Clinic Staff · Yields: 16 Biscuits

1/2 teaspoon baking soda (bicarbonate of soda) 3/4 cup all-purpose (plain) flour, plus extra for kneading 3 tablespoons chilled butter, cut into small pieces 1 cup low-fat buttermilk

Directions 1. Preheat the oven to 400 F. Have ready an ungreased nonstick baking sheet. 2. In a large bowl, combine the flours, wheat germ, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Whisk to blend. Add the butter to the flour mixture. With a pastry blender or 2 knives, cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the buttermilk and stir just until a moist dough forms. Don’t overmix. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes. 3. Turn the dough out onto a generously floured work surface and, with floured hands, knead gently for 6 to 8 times until smooth and manageable.Using a rolling pin, roll the dough into a rectangle 1/2-inch thick. Using a 2 1/2-inch round biscuit cutter dipped in flour, cut out biscuits. Cut close together for a minimum of scraps. Gather the scraps and roll out to make additional biscuits. 4. Place the biscuits about 1 inch apart on the baking sheet. Bake until the biscuits rise to twice their unbaked height and are lightly golden, 8 to 10 minutes. 5. Serve hot.

Ingredients: 1 chicken (broiler/fryer) about 3 pounds, trimmed, see note 1/2 teaspoon each: salt, garlic powder 1/2 cup flour 1 teaspoon paprika 2 tablespoons reduced-calorie margarine or butter, melted Directions: 1. Heat oven to 425 degrees. Season the chicken with salt, pepper and garlic powder. Combine flour and paprika in medium bowl. Coat seasoned chicken parts with flour mixture. 2. Place chicken (skin side down) in 13-by-9-by-2-inch oil-sprayed baking pan. Drizzle melted margarine or butter over chicken. 3. Bake 30 minutes; turn chicken. Bake until thickest pieces are done and juices run clear when pierced by a fork, about 30 minutes longer.

Oven-Fried Chicken

Yields: 6 Servings. Preparation time: 15 minutes. Cooking time: 1 hour. Note: Skin may be removed from chicken before preparing, if desired

March - April 15, 2012

Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Ingredients Cooking spray 1 20-ounce can pineapple tidbits in their own juice, undrained 12 maraschino cherries 1/2 cup fat-free caramel topping 1 18.25-ounce package yellow cake mix 3/4 cup egg substitute 1 4-ounce jar baby food puréed apricots with pears and apples Topping 1 cup frozen fat-free whipped topping, thawed in refrigerator 2 tablespoons fat-free caramel topping Yields: (12) 3-inch square, 1 tablespoon topping per serving Directions: 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly spray a 13x9x2-inch baking pan with cooking spray. Drain the pineapple, reserving 3/4 cup juice. Pat the pineapple dry with paper towels. Drain the cherries. Cut in half. Pat dry with paper towels. Drizzle 1/2 cup caramel topping in the pan. Cover the bottom with the pineapple. Evenly arrange the cherries with the cut sides up over the pineapple. 2. In a large mixing bowl, stir together the cake mix, egg substitute, baby food, and reserved pineapple juice. Using an electric mixer, beat according to the package directions. Gently spoon the batter over the fruit, lightly smoothing the top. 3. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a cake tester or wooden toothpick inserted in the center comes out almost clean. Transfer to a cooling rack and let cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Run a spatula around the edges of the cake to loosen it. Invert onto a large flat platter. Let cool for at least 15 minutes. 4. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, stir together the whipped topping and remaining 2 tablespoons caramel topping. 5. Spoon onto the cake. 6. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Oven-Fried Catfish Ingredients: Pan spray 2 Tablespoons butter 1 large Vidalia onion, halved and cut into thin slices 2 garlic cloves, minced 1 28 oz. can of small diced tomatoes, drained 1/2 teaspoon salt 3 Tablespoons brown sugar

Tabasco to taste 1 Tablespoon red wine vinegar 16 oz. cut frozen green beans, thawed (or you can also use freshly blanched green beans) 1 1/2 cups cornmeal 3 Tablespoons hot Cajun seasoning 8 6 oz fillets catfish 3 cups skim milk

1. In a large saute pan, saute onions in butter for about 8 minutes or until they start to soften. Add garlic and cook for 2 more minutes. 2. Add tomatoes, salt, brown sugar, and vinegar. Cook for another 5-8 minutes or until most of the liquid has evaporated. 3. Add green beans and cook until the green beans are soft and hot. 4. Add Tabasco to taste. Keep hot until needed or cool, refrigerate and reheat when needed. 5. In a bowl combine cornmeal and Cajun seasoning. Soak catfish in milk in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours. 6. Remove catfish from the milk and bread with the seasoned cornmeal. Place on a baking sheet that has been sprayed withpan spray. Bake in a 450º F oven for 10-15 minutes or until the breading is crunchy and the fish tender and cooked through. 7. Serve fish alongside the green bean and tomato mixture.

Ranch Style Cole Slaw Ingredients: 1/3 cup mayonnaise 2/3 cup sour cream 2 Tablespoons lemon juice Artificial sweetener to equal 2 T sugar 1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder 1/8 teaspoon paprika 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon plus one pinch salt 1 lb cabbage, shredded

Directions: Mix all cole slaw dressing ingredients together, and then mix them into the cabbage. Balance the lemon juice and sweetener to your own taste. Yields: (7) 1 cup servings.

March - April 15, 2012

Cont. Emergency Care Training: Are you confident in emergency preparedness? area with brave, emotionless facial expressions and exude confidence in applying the proper technique for the emergency before them while wearing protective equipment required as a universal precaution OSHA. Sometimes first aid is applied, yet the victim is in a progressive stage as a result to pre-existing conditions. In these circumstances, a modified CPR may be required. Below is a list of classes offered: When disasters take place, learn CPR and be a part of the solution. Our classroom is available for training small groups. We will also come to your business or office setting and train your staff. We offer group rates for 6 or more participants. CPR & First Aid is essential to sustaining life or keeping wounds free of infection. You do not have to be a nurse or healthcare provider to learn how to save lives. If you have family and friends you care for, your gift to them is a peace of mind knowing that you are trained in CPR and First Aid. Check your emergency preparedness. 1-3 PANIC -fainter 4-6 CALM – bystander 7-10 CONFIDENT – 1st responder 1. Have you taken a CPR or First Aid Class in the last 5 years? Yes No 2. If a co-worker suffered a coffee burn on their arm, what would you advise? a. Find a stick of butter to soothe the area b. run cool water over burn area 3. Do you have a fire extinguisher, first aid kit for home and auto? Yes No 4. Have you programmed into your telephone poison control, fire department and animal control phone numbers? Yes No 5. What is the significance of an automated external defibrillator? a. to shock the heart

b. to detect a liar c. to analyze brain function Calculate your score. Each yes receives a score of 2, each no receives a 1, each incorrect answer receives a 0.

CPR HEALTH

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) is a procedure used to restore adequate blood flow throughout the body by compressing the heart and simultaneously supplying oxygen to the brain and lungs by giving 2 breaths after each set of compressions. This successful rhythmic rotation is vital to the survival of the victim, and is most beneficial when using an automated external defibrillator (AED) immediately. The AED’s primary function is shocking the heart in an effort to realign a normal heart rate stimulating a pulse underneath the skin’s surface at the carotid artery (cervical or neck region). There are varying parameters to consider when administering CPR and operating the electrically charged AED for an adult, child and infant. The adult CPR differs from the child and infant CPR, all according to the body weight and size. Let’s not assume that each person lying down is a victim of heart failure. The three things to asses that determine if CPR is needed are: 1. No response to the questions: “Are you OK? Can you hear me? 2. No breathing (after 5

seconds) 3. No pulse (after 5 seconds) There is no prerequisite for a CPR course. Anyone can sign-up for a CPR class in a matter of minutes. Although there are several CPR classes available, it is important to verify which one is best suited for your needs. Follow the course descriptions below to help you determine an appropriate fit. A. Basic Life Support (BLS) for Healthcare Provider Course: course for Pharmacy Techs, Massage Therapists, Physical Fitness Trainers, Nursing students and any medical professional charged with the care of patients or clients in a clinical setting. 1. Certification: new to career field or expired card 2. Renewal: BLS card due for expiration soon B. Heart Saver CPR AED: course designed for corporate or general employment requirements to be fulfilled; usually an environment free of medical or clinical framework. Certification upon completion. C. Family & Friends CPR: also known as babysitter course; offers basic skills without certification at completion.

FIRST AID HEALTH

First Aid is the first measure of preventative control used to stabilize and eliminate the threat of infection, regression or death.

First Aid encompasses a degree of emergency events such as bites, cold weather injuries, burns, breathing problems and diabetes to announce the few. First Aid kits have been assembled as a help to treat and mend an otherwise potential amputated body part. The first responder must dress infected

A. Heart Saver First Aid (certification upon completion): course offers basic address of accidents, both minor and major B. Heart Saver First Aid with CPR AED (certification upon completion): course designed for treating minor cuts, burns and any

threatening circumstance C. Family & Friends First Aid for children (no certification): babysitter CPR for the new mothers with small children We also provide the following:

EMERGENCY PRODUCTS • CPR & First Aid Kits • CPR Mask Kits • Emergency Office Signs • AED Sales • Replacement CPR Cards • Student Manuals

March - April 15, 2012

March is National Colon Cancer Awareness Month By Dr. Vivian Asamoah, Contributing Writer

t CypressFairbanks Gastroenterology and Associates, one of our most important goals is fighting colorectal cancer. If you were born in 1962, you will turn the big 5-0 this year. This is the year you are due for your colorectal cancer screening, which is a preventive medicine procedure covered by most insurance companies*. If you are over 50 and have not yet been screened, it is never too late. Early detection and prevention of colon cancer are important and could save your life. Colon cancer is the 2nd leading cause of cancer death in men and women combined in the US. According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), 90% of new cases and 95% of deaths from colon cancer occur in people 50 or older. As many as 60% of deaths from colorectal cancer could be prevented if everyone age 50 and older were screened on a regular basis. Colon cancer has no single cause. Some people have a higher risk of developing colon cancer because this form of the disease tends to run in families. Others who are diagnosed with the disease have a personal history of colorectal polyps or colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, or certain inherited gene changes that can cause the disease. Being over the age of 50 and African American also can increase the risk of developing colon cancer.

So what can you do to reduce your risk of colon cancer? Plenty! While you cannot control your age, race or family history, there are a number of lifestylerelated steps you can take to help prevent the disease. •Have a screening colonoscopy at age 50. •Eat five or more servings of a variety of vegetables and fruits daily. Avoid a diet that is high in red meats, such as

beef or lamb, and processed meats, including hot dogs. •Exercise. The ACS recommends at least 30 minutes of moderate or vigorous physical activity for adults on five or more days of the week. •Manage your weight. Being overweight or obese increases the risk for colon cancer in both men and women. •Don’t smoke. Some of the

substances from smoking that can cause cancer are swallowed and can increase the risk of the disease developing in the digestive system, which includes the colon. Just because you have a risk factor for colon cancer does not mean you will develop the disease. People who do not have any identifiable risk factors for colon cancer should begin regular colorectal screening at age 50. Those with risk factors for the disease should talk to their doctor about being screened at a younger age and/or being screened more frequently. Colon cancer often does not cause any symptoms. But it can be detected at an early stage through screening when it is most curable. Talk to your doctor about your risks and when you should begin screening for colon cancer. For a personalized risk assessment, call to schedule an appointment with Dr. Vivian Asamoah, board certified gastroenterologist, at 832-604-3300. * According to the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force and the Affordable Healthcare Act. Check with your health insurance provider for details.

Understanding High Blood Pressure By Denver Smith

hen people think of a person with high blood pressure, they generally picture someone who is overweight and/or in a state of overall poor health. Though this is often the case, many are surprised to learn that hypertension can also affect people who appear fit and healthy. Unfortunately, all too often, hypertension results in few symptoms, which prevents a lot of patients from seeking any type of medical help. Learn the facts about high blood pressure, or you may fall victim to its dangerous effects.

primary 90 percent of people with high blood pressure suffer from what’s called “primary hypertension.” In these cases, a primary cause cannot be identified. People with primary hypertension also tend to feel alright, without experiencing much - if any - symptoms. The lack of symptoms often prevents many from seeking treatment, a big reason why many physicians call hypertension the silent killer. secondary High blood pressure is a growing problem in America; however, in most cases, the direct cause is unknown. That said, there are certain instances where hypertension is the result of a secondary problem. 10 percent of the time, high blood pressure is the result of a secondary issue that can be identified. There are a host of medical conditions that could lead to hypertension, including preeclampsia, glandular problems, sleep apnea, kidney problems, thyroid issues and even birth control pills and other medications.

other risk factors Although the cause of primary hypertension usually remains a mystery for most patients, there are specific risk factors that have proved to contribute to the problem. These include having diabetes, being overweight, eating a diet high in salty foods, being of African American descent and/or being a man above the age of 45 or a woman above the age of 55. Typically, more men develop high blood pressure than women; however, women can increase their overall risk by taking birth control pills. exacerbating the problem Though not necessarily caused by the following, hypertension can be worsened by smoking, poorly-managed, prolonged stress, excessive salt and alcohol consumption, and a lack of regular exercise. getting help When they diagnose a patient with hypertension, most physicians prescribe blood pressure medicine. Unfortunately, these often come with unpleasant sideeffects, such as dizziness, insomnia, frequent urination and dehydration. While effective for some, these drugs aren’t for everyone. Many sufferevrs are able to rein in their hypertension by eating better, exercising more and using an allnatural, herbal high blood pressure meds. About the Author Alistrol is a natural herbal blood pressure medicine. It is fast becoming one of the most popular natural high blood pressure remedies on the market.

10. March - April 15, 2012

March - April 15, 2012

11.

Proud to be a Thinker By David L. Bartholomew III, LCSW, Contributing Writer

rue fulfillment comes from reaching deep within yourself and recognizing the greatness you know exists or discovering you possess untapped gifts. This ability to penetrate the layers and make sense of life comes from critical thinking. Stephen D. Brookfield says when we become critical thinkers we become aware of the assumptions under which we, and others, act. We learn to pay attention to the context in which our actions and ideas are generated. We become skeptical of quick fix solutions, of single answers to problems, and of claims to universal truth. We also become open to alternative ways of looking at, and behaving in, the world. It is understandable how dire circumstances such as joblessness, homelessness, starvation, substandard education and racism create a sense of desperation and hopelessness among many people. Yet, Black people are gifted with uncommon fortitude and resilience that needs only be summoned by those who dare look inside themselves for a

higher calling. The alternative is to sink into an abyss of nothingness. The pursuit of success at the cost of one’s sense of self produces a stress yielding only despair, loneliness, hatred of self and others, and insanity. Critical thinking allows one to analyze the means and the end to pursue a measure of success that preserves dignity and self-respect while seizing opportunities to achieve economic and societal advancement, driven and supported by personal and spiritual growth. Far too many rappers tell stories of murder, crime and sexual escapades, representing a misguided valuesystemand distorted view of personal accomplishment. Too many Black women promote themselves as sexual objects to be used as a revenue stream. Drug dealers and violent criminals use murder and intimidation as tools to increase market share of their industry. Even Black professionals sometimes choose to adopt the persona of their White counterparts because they’ve bought the notion it’s the most promising, if not the only, road to

success. Some argue in many of these cases the individuals are thinking creatively and thus have learned to use what they have to get what they need. It is further argued that individuals have been left with no choice but to react to economic exclusion and decimation of resources in minority communities by corporate greed and corrupt politics. No doubt these conditions make survival difficult, seemingly impossible. Nothing great emerges without a struggle. The cost of perseverance is often high, but not nearly as high as the price of sacrificing one’s identity, dignity, self- esteem and even life for a distorted perception of success. This is not what Malcolm X meant when he said “…by any means necessary”, or when Martin Luther King, Jr. said “…by all means, just keep moving.” Carter G. Woodson said, “When you control a man’s thinking you do not have to worry about his actions. You do not have to tell him to stand here or go yonder. He will find his ‘proper place’ and will stay in it.

You do not need to send him to the back door. He will go there without being told. In fact, if there is no back door, he will cut one for his special benefit.” Never again should you believe destructive, demeaning, and self-effacing attitudes and behaviors represent the pathway to success, rationalizing how the end justifies the means. While critical thinking neither provides all answers, nor solves all problems, it opens the gateway for unlocking inherent potential, exploring new options, and building resilience

needed to resist the subcultural fast life that too often ends as quickly as it begins. There is a better way to think, therefore a better way to live. Thinking about life’s possibilities gives way to a vision which you can aspire toward and a dream in which to believe. All you need to do…is just think about it. David L. Bartholomew III, LCSW is a licensed Psychotherapist and Personal Coach and can be reached at david@ mystresscare.com or www.mystresscare. com.

12. March - April 15, 2012

Eating for Pre-Diabetes is Easier Than You Think! By Gretchen Scalpi

any people who learn they have pre-diabetes believe that they will need to make drastic changes in the way that they eat. Actually, the components of a healthful prediabetes meal plan works much in the same way that any healthy eating plan would work. By following a few simple principles, the person with pre-diabetes can benefit considerably. A well thought out eating plan should focus on portion control and a variety of nutrient dense foods. Weight loss, blood sugar control and improved nutrition are the most obvious benefits whenyou begin to eat in this way. Having pre-diabetes does not mean that you need to make separate meals or foods. Everyone has similar nutritional requirements, regardless of whether or not they have this condition. A pre-diabetic meal plan includes the same foods that everyone else can eat. Buying specialty or diet food is unnecessary. To begin with, you do not have to give up all carbohydrates

when you have pre-diabetes. Although carbohydrate foods have an effect on blood sugar, they are a necessary component of a healthy diet. It is the quantity as well as the type of carbohydrate that you include in your eating plan that will make the biggest difference. Carbohydrates are the body’s primary energy source. Simple carbohydrates include foods with added sugars, juices and fruits. Complex carbohydrates include grain products and starchy vegetables. When you have pre-diabetes it is recommended that most of the carbohydrate in your diet come from the complex carbohydrates. Use grain products or other carbohydrate foods that are high in fiber. In other words, look for whole grains, and use plenty of vegetables to get fiber. Refined or processed grains have much less fiber, and often have less

nutritional value. Fruit contains natural, simple sugars, and provides a variety of vitamins, minerals and fiber.

To get the most fiber from fruit, choose fresh fruit instead of fruit juice. Unsweetened frozen or canned fruit provides additional choices. Milk or yogurt has natural sugar and are perfectly suitable

to include in your eating plan. Choose low fat or fat free milk or yogurt. Read yogurt labels carefully for added sugars. Some fruit flavored or fruit on the bottom types of yogurt have quite a bit added sugar. What about desserts or foods with added sugars? Trying to eliminate desserts entirely is not realistic and can make you feel deprived. Use good judgment and portion control with desserts, and reserve this type of food for occasional use. Be sure your blood sugar is well controlled if you decide to include an occasional dessert. Carbohydrates are not the only consideration for pre-diabetes meal planning. High protein foods and healthy fats are essential as well. Choose lean sources of meat, chicken or fish. Vegetable sources of protein such as beans, lentils and soy provide good alternatives that

are low in fat. Consider using t he me at le ss vegetable proteins as an alternative once or twice weekly. Selecting lean meat and low fat dairy food are good w a y s to cut down saturated fat and cholesterol. Include foods containing omega-3 fats such as salmon, sardines, walnuts or soy oil more often. As you can see a prediabetic style of eating mimics many of the same principles of a general, healthy eating plan. Of greatest importance is to balance and control the amount of carbohydrates you consume each day. A Registered Dietitian can help you learn correct portion sizes and the amount of food that’s right for you. © 2012 Gretchen Scalpi. All rights reserved. Gretchen Scalpi is a Registered Dietitian, Certified Diabetes Educator, author and Certified Wellcoach. Gretchen has worked one on one with hundreds of clients in her own private nutrition practice since 2002. If you have been diagnosed with pre-diabetes visit http://bit.ly/sdidFO to learn more about the upcoming teleclass series “Pre-diabetes: Your Second Chance at Good Health!”.

March - April 15, 2012

National Health Awareness By Lola F. Brooks R.N., Contributing Writer

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Right Lifestyle to Get the Right Weight By: Yngrid Pérez-Torrens, Contributing Writer

his article’s focus is on women’s heart health. Many women have seen the flyers or perhaps participated in the “Go Red For Women” campaign. Take the time to understand heart healthy! The goal of this article, along with the mission of the American Heart Association is to create healthier lives, free of cardiovascular disease and stroke. Under the leadership of Pastor Jamail Johnson, the focus will consist of healthy mind, body and spirit. Every change begins in the mind. You must “want to change”. It is time NOW to “want to change”. Ask yourself “why not?” Most women make the food and activity choices for the family. Create in your mind a healthy future for your family. You can create a heart health legacy because of the choices you make today. It is not necessary to wait until a physician orders you or an emergency causes you to mandate a heart healthy change. Mentally, today decide to accept the heart you have and take care of it. Physical changes may begin today. Choose to lose the unwanted pounds to your mid-section. Do not focus on looks but health. Choose to eat healthy and inadvertently the pounds will shed. Heart healthy food consist of fruits, vegetables, fiber rich, whole grains, lean meats and fat free foods. Experiment with different ways to prepare foods. Try grilled, baked and different seasonings on your foods. Drink plenty of water daily. Take fruit and nuts with you for a snack. Stay

away from fried foods and processed sugars. Make the choice to live life to the fullest. Physical activity may be difficult after a long day. Try a.m. exercise to get your heart rate elevated for 10-30 minutes daily. The AHA recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous intensity a week. You can split the exercise intervals up into 10 min. sessions throughout your day. How? Take the stairs every opportunity. Park your car away from the door on the parking lot, to allow more walking time. Invest in a treadmill. Grab a coworker and walk during lunch (eat light). Choose a physician that you are comfortable with and trust. Become serious about your health. Know your blood pressure, cholesterol number, blood glucose (sugar) and weight. Know these numbers for yourself and know that the numbers can change. Once a year, with consideration of your family history, have the necessary medical checkup. As a woman, you owe it to yourself and your loved ones to make the choice to live an abundant life. It is important to know that you can make the necessary changes. It is literally a choice to live the abundant life that has been promised to each of us. You have the necessary tools, it all begins with YOU. Spiritually, it is important to have the faith that change can happen. Draw on the strength you have, to achieve your goals. Daily you can accomplish your desires with continued commitment. Take one day at a time and enjoy the New You. Do this for your sake, your family’s sake and the generations to come.

ow will you lose weight this time? There are pills you can take. Maybe you’d like to try exercise alone. Maybe you’d like to starve yourself. You could try the blood-type diet. There’s always the grapefruit diet, the Hollywood diet, the cabbage soup diet, the three-day diet, and the lemonade diet. There must be an “eat as much as you want of anything you want” diet. How about surgery? And, after you’ve risked your life with starvation or surgery, what are you going to do when the fat comes back later? Here’s something to consider: even after you’ve lost weight, you could still be unhealthy. You could still have flabby muscles, and be at risk for (or still have) hypertension and diabetes. A person doesn’t have to be obese to be in bad

shape. Skinny people can be unhealthy too. Maybe what you really want is not to lose weight, but to be healthy. There are two main aspects to being healthy. The obvious one is physical

health. Fewer people consider mental health. But the right health goes beyond that; it involves a balance of physical, intellectual, emotional, social, occupational, spiritual, and environmental aspects. The staff at the Mayo

Clinic (one of the major health researchers in the nation), concluded that for successful, long-term weight loss, one has to make permanent changes in lifestyle. We need to take control of our lives and general health. We need to change compulsive behaviors and take control of our own minds. Take small steps, one day at a time. Get together with people who encourage you to achieve your goals. Get enough sleep and rest. Eat healthy foods including fruits and vegetables. Take a class on how to cook healthy meals. Remember that moderation is the key. Do activities that give you a sense of well-being. Get up in the morning and do at least five to fifteen minutes of exercise. Park your car far away from your building. Use the stairs. If you need to talk to someone in the next office, walk over there instead of sending an email or a text message. If your work is mostly done sitting, get up and move around once every thirty or sixty minutes. Adding a little bit of movement in your life not only prevents heart disease, stroke, and diabetes, it also will enhance your selfesteem, improve your mood, and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. What are you waiting for? Start now!

14. March - April 15, 2012

Identifying Your Wellness Potential By Laura M. Turner, M.Sc. CNHP

ach day, are you becoming more of yourself? At first an awkward question. Yet, as I continue to read and discover more about the mind/ body model of wellness, it appears the pursuit of being “well” expands as we continue on the road to self-wholeness. Think of it this way, according to the mind/body model of wellness, we are in a constant process of becoming “whole” as we learn to become more and more of ourselves. With this said, if you are not even sure where you are on this continuum or if you need a push in the right direction, in this article we’ll discuss how to both uncover your wellness potential, as well as three ways to get you on the road to wholeness.

Step 1: Create Your Loves List Discovering your wellness potential begins by discovering yourself. To

begin, make what authors of The Wellness Book, Dr. Herbert Benson and Eileen Stuart, call your “10 Loves List.” This is easy to do. Simply, choose 10 things in your life you love to do that do not involve risking your physical or emotional health. Next, rate these items in terms of importance and decide if you’ve been spending enough time doing them. No need to think deeply on this. To make things simple, jot down your first instincts. For example, my list looks like this: write, read, exercise, meditate/ journal/ listen to music, listen to guided imagery tapes, watch movies, pet my cat, spend time with friends and family and make jewelry.

Step 2: Uncover Your Missing Pieces And Create A Long-Term Goal Next, decide what images this exercise brings up for you. If the premise of wellness is re-membering our missing pieces to create wholeness, what activities are you missing in your life or not doing enough of? I think you will find your mind and heart will provide the answer to this question. Now, ask yourself how you can change your life to include more of what’s missing? From this jumping off point you should now be able to create a long term goal. This goal should be something that is challenging enough to be exciting, yet not troublesome enough to burden you. It should also be a goal you feel you can accomplish within a year’s time. I think you will find that this list conjures up

I will so trust that what is deep is holy, that I will do strongly before the sun and the moon whatever inly rejoices me and the heart appoints. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

the notion that you can continue to expand by bringing forward what you can consider your gifts to the world. For example, as I examine my list, I realize, my long term goal (based on what I consider my greatest contribution to the world) would be to write, edit and publish an new book. With this in mind, take a look at your list and decide what you can contribute.

Step 3: Create Monthly Short Term Goals And Begin To Re-Member Yourself Next create a month’s worth of short term goals, based on your time constraints. To make things easier, short term goals are defined as “specific, realistic, measurable and behavior oriented.” Here’s an example based on my goal of writing: I will write 5

pages of my book each day, 5 days each week. After you’ve defined your short term goals, make a commitment to them. If you need, create a contract with yourself, sign it, date it and put it in an envelope. Plan to revisit this goal chart again at the end of the month. This is a simple, yet effective exercise based on the idea that it only takes 21 days to create a habit. Moreover, if you are consistent in working your way through a month of short-term goals chances are you will be successful in reaching your longer goal.

Step 4: In Conclusion Each month continue to renew and recommit to your long term goal by retooling your short term goals as you move along. Also continue to re-explore your “List of Loves” and see where you can apply them into your life. I think you will find, what you focus on expands

and you will create more space for in your life. As a result, it is my wish that you will then be on your way to re-membering all the lost pieces of yourself. Remember: This is the path of a lifetime, and is the call for us always to be true to ourselves and ourselves only. For in the words of Ralph Waldo Emerson: “You will always find those who think they know what is your duty better than you know it. It is easy in the world to live after the world’s opinion; it is easy in solitude to live after our own; but the great man is he who in the midst of the crowd keeps with perfect sweetness the independence of solitude.”

Laura M. Turner is a health journalist, author and netpreneur. She hosts: Beauty & Body Online (http://www.beautyand-body.com ): Your Home For Natural Health, Wellness & Creative Abundance. Visit: http:// www.newbodyweekly.com to sign up for her free eZine: The New Body news and Wellness Letter.

March - April 15, 2012

Fast Food Today By Stephanie Watson

ealth experts have been saying for years that fast food is bad for people. In February 2003, a filmmaker named Morgan Spurlock decided to perform an experiment to see if that claim was true. He wanted to find out what would happen to his body if he ate nothing but fast food for thirty days. Spurlock ate every breakfast, lunch, and dinner at McDonald’s. He ate everything on the menu at least once, including hamburgers, french fries, and chicken nuggets. Anytime the person behind the counter asked if he wanted the biggest— “Supersize”—meal, he said yes. Spurlock and his doctors tracked what happened to his body. He made a movie of the whole experience, called Super Size Me (2004). At the end of one month, Spurlock’s body had changed significantly. He had gained twenty-five pounds (eleven kilograms). He felt tired all the time, and his cholesterol—the fatlike substance that clogs arteries and can lead to heart attacks—had skyrocketed. He had more of the fats called triglycerides in his blood, and his liver was damaged. His doctor told him that if he didn’t stop his experiment soon, he could die. Spurlock’s movie received much attention from film critics and moviegoers. It also caused quite a bit of debate. Health experts said it proved that fast food is unhealthy. People in the fast-food business said it was just a crazy stunt Spurlock did to get people to see his film. What happened to Morgan Spurlock’s body doesn’t prove that fast food is unhealthy. Eating fast food for every meal is pretty extreme—most people don’t eat nearly that much. But two things are certain. Americans are eating more fast food than they used

spent playing or exercising. Watching television is not only making children gain weight, it’s also making them want to eat foods that aren’t good for them.

Selling Fast Food to You to eat. And, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), people in the United States are fatter, and unhealthier, than they were a few decades ago.

you are overweight, your body has more trouble using insulin. There is also type 1 diabetes, which is caused by a problem with the immune system that damages the cells that make

If you’re like most young people, you watch a whopping forty thousand TV commercials per year, according to The Handbook of Children and Media. Most of those ads

are for toys, cereals, candy, and fast food. Fast-food restaurants spend millions of dollars a year on their commercials. In the ads, they try to get your attention with clowns and fun characters from your favorite movies and TV shows. They make the burgers, fries, shakes, and other foods that they sell look delicious. Ads aren’t the only way fast-food restaurants try to get your attention. Many of them have playgrounds. They have special meals for children, and they put toys in their kids’ meals from movies such as Spider-Man 2 and Shrek. They do these things to get you to buy their food.

Getting the Balance Right It’s hard to resist fastfood restaurants. After all, the food tastes good. The meals don’t cost much. Your friends probably go there to eat and ask you to come along. It’s easy to go to fastfood restaurants because they’re everywhere. You can find them in school

The Obesity Epidemic Every single day, one out of three young people aged four to nineteen eats fast food. Children eat five times more fast food today than they did in 1970, as reported in a 2004 study published in Pediatrics. Every single day, one out of three young people aged four to nineteen eats fast food. At the same time, Americans are gaining weight. Almost 20 percent of children aged six and up were overweight in 2003–2004, according to the CDC. That’s three times more overweight children than in the late 1970s. Health experts call this big rise in the number of overweight children an epidemic. Being overweight can lead to many health problems, such as type 2 diabetes. People who have type 2 diabetes cannot utilize the hormone insulin, which helps the body’s cells convert the sugar from foods into energy. When

insulin. However, type 1 diabetes is not related to being overweight. Before 1994, only about 5 percent of children with diabetes had the type 2 kind. But because there are more overweight kids today, 30 to 50 percent of children with diabetes have the type 2 kind, according to the National Diabetes Education Program. Why do young people seem to be heavier—and unhealthier—than ever before? One reason is that they’re not moving as much as they used to. They get a ride to school instead of walking. They play video games instead of sports. They also don’t get as much exercise in school. In 1991, almost half of U.S. students took physical education class in school every day. In 2003, only 28 percent took daily gym classes, according to the CDC. There’s also the lure of television. The CDC says that young people between the ages of eight and eighteen sit in front of the TV for more than three hours each day. That’s time they could have

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cafeterias, airports, malls, and hospitals—just about anyplace you look. Eating fast food is OK once in a while. If you make healthy choices at fast-food restaurants, like ordering salads with low-fat dressing or deli sandwiches instead of burgers, you can eat there more often without a problem. Remember that your body needs many different types of foods to stay healthy. You need to eat fruits, vegetables, chicken, fish, lean meats, milk products, and grains. If you eat fast-food burgers, fries, and shakes every day, you won’t be getting the proper nutritional balance. You may end up with a lot of extra weight and health problems, just as Morgan Spurlock did. Written by: Stephanie Watson Reviewed by: Susan Drake, B.S., M.S., R.D. Updated: August 2010 © Learning ZoneXpress

16. March - April 15, 2012

March - April 15, 2012

Positive Thinking positive thinker first tries to feel inwardly positive and grateful. This is understandable: his reason for reading about positive thinking

thanks for the fact that he has warmth and shelter, the thinker finds himself dwelling on the thought that his house is small and shabby compared to the smart home which is one of his goals in life. This negative idea soon becomes a train of negative thought. Following on from thoughts of his unsatisfactory accommodation, comes the thought that his car is several years old

and deciding to use it was born out of a desire for improvement or maybe a longing to change unhappy circumstances. Positive thoughts can easily be hijacked by niggling dissatisfactions. When he should be giving

and always seems to need fixing. Next comes the thought that there is never enough money to keep the house in good repair and to keep the car on the road. Then he thinks about his pittance of a salary and how he does not

Think Like A Hurricane Survivor By Elaine Currie

eeping a positive attitude can be difficult if you have only just started trying to harness the power of positive thinking but you can make it easy by thinking like a survivor. Positive thinking is a powerful tool. It is also simple and free. Maintaining positive thoughts is something anyone can do, but many beginners find it difficult to banish negative thoughts and to find positive ideas on which to focus. Many people who decide to harness the power of positive thinking have read books describing the wonderful effects they can achieve and have become very excited by the things they discovered. They finish the book in a state of elation, determined to implement the techniques they have learned but, instead of having feelings of gratitude and well-being, their minds stray to wishful thinking or negative thoughts. The problem can start from day one when the newly hatched

get paid what he is worth, it is barely enough to feed and clothe the family and vacations are out of the question. To give the kids enough of an education to get a decent chance in life will mean he will have to put himself into debt. You can easily see how, in just a few seconds, negative ideas have overwhelmed any embryonic positive thoughts. Instead of feeling of relaxed and happy in the warm glow of positive energy and celebration of life’s abundance, the thinker is wasting energy and pushing positive ideas further away by miserably reviewing all the things that he hoped to change. It can be hard to feel grateful if this is your situation. When your house is too small, you don’t have enough cash to keep up with repairs, your TV is on the blink, you worry about stretching finances to cover life’s essentials, you don’t earn enough, you hate your job but aren’t likely to find anything better, you don’t have the time or the money to be able to enjoy yourself, life is all work and worry. How can you be expected to feel gratitude? Imagine surviving a hurricane. You have probably seen many images of the aftermath of a hurricane. Imagine how it must feel to be rescued from the flooded debris which was once

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your home. Not much is left that is recognisable and, what there is, has been smashed beyond any hope of repair. You are homeless, you have no possessions apart from the wet clothes you are wearing. You are cold. You are out of a job because your workplace went with the hurricane. You don’t know whether any member of your family has come through the ordeal. Try to imagine how you would feel. Now imagine that the rescuers have taken you into a temporary shelter where there is light, warmth, food and a bed for you to sleep in. You have been given dry clothing and a comforting hot drink. You have been reunited with your family who, miraculously, escaped without injury. How do you feel now? Now dismiss all thoughts of hardship and dissatisfaction and start again. Start by being grateful and happy that you are aliveComputer Technology Articles, that your family is safe and you have been given this new day. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Working at home requires a great deal of self-motivation. You can pick up some excellent practical motivational tips at Elaine Currie’s free Work At Home Directory at http://www.huntingvenus. com where you will also find the best ways to make money online.

18. March - April 15, 2012

How to Fight Prostate Cancer and Be Fit 4 Essential Tips to Maintain Excellent Prostate Health By Seomul Evans

here are many p o s i t i v e measures that you can take to maintain excellent prostate health. Here are 4 practical tips to implement in your daily life.

1) Lose your Belly Fat Aim to keep your waistline trim. Fat in the body results in a drop of the Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA), which circulates in the blood stream. When your Doctor checks your PSA levels to determine if you do have prostate cancer - an excess of weight may result in a skewing of test results.

2) Enjoy the sunshine! Contrary to what you may have heard the sun isn’t all bad. In the US research carried out on men living within the sunniest states found a 32%

lower risk rate of prostate cancer. This is believed to be as a result of Vitamin D, which we can get from the sun. However, if you are worried about damage to skin from the sun, you can get your Vitamin D requirements from Cod Liver Oil instead.

3) Follow Popeye’s example Eat spinach! One study established that men could halve their risk of prostate cancer by establishing a high intake of folate. This is a nutrient that can be found in spinach. Aim for a daily quota of 400 micrograms (MCG). As a guide a 180g serving of cooked spinach will provide approximately 100 mcg

4) Think Red! A study review published in the Journal of Nutrition established that eating

between two to four servings of raw tomatoes reduced men’s risk of prostate cancer. by 26%. Alternatively, you could opt for a glass of tomato juice which contains similar cancer busting properties. Prostate Cancer Causes Prostate cancer causes

are not fully able to be explained, but it appears that changes in the DNA of a prostate cell bring on the cancer. DNA is what makes up our genes, which in turn can control how individual cells behave under certain circumstances. We inherit DNA from our parents,

and they from their ancestors. A very small percentage, around five to ten percent, it seems to be linked to these changes that are inherited. It has also been shown to be possibly linked to certain hormones high levels. Higher than average levels of the male hormone androgens has been shown to possibly play a part in the risk of contracting prostate cancer. Researchers have also noted that men who have a high level of a hormone known as IGF1 are more likely to suffer from prostate cancer. But other scientists have not agreed with the finding of this link. We can only use risk factors to help determine causes, since we don’t know what exactly the most causative factor is. Various cancers will have different risk factors, and some, like smoking, can be controlled. But others, like family history or age, cannot be altered. The presence of risk factors isn’t a sure sign, either. Some people have many risk factors, but never develop cancer. At the same

time, other people with no apparent risk factors do develop cancer. The links between risk factors and prostate cancer is not fully clear. The most important risk factor appears to be age. Your chance of developing cancer goes up most speedily after you reach fifty years of age. Nearly two of three cases occur in men over 65 years of age. Race appears to be another risk factor in the development of cancer. For reasons unknown, African-American men are affected more than men of other races. They are also more likely to suffer from the more advanced stages of the disease, and thus are more likely to die because of prostate cancer. In addition, prostate cancer occurs more often in nonHispanic white men than in Hispanic/Latino and Asian-American men. The reasons for these differences in likelihood are not clearly understood. Seomul Evans is a copywriter with an interest in: Website Marketing, Mens Health Disorders, and Prostate Cancer

March - April 15, 2012

Traveling Around the Globe Just Got Better With Ardyss By Gail Mathis, Contributing Writer

ne of Alex Sanders’ best life experiences was as a Globetrotter. As a child Alex was torn between basketball and football, but his decision for basketball became clear when he transferred from Wheatley High School here in Houston to Oak Hill Academy in Virginia where they didn’t offer football as a sport. He graduated high school in 1994 and after many offers from universities around the country; he accepted a full scholarship to attend the University of Louisville. After leaving the U of L in 1999 and trying out for a few NBA teams, he settled in Cincinnati for a year to play Semi-Pro basketball. In 2000 his head coach, Joby Wright received a job offer to coach the Globetrotters and asked Alex if he would be

interested. After talking it over with his family and close friends, he happily accepted and the rest is history. Alex played 6 years with the team and some of his favorite countries to play in were England, Switzerland, Spain, Germany, andItaly. In his globetrotting experience, Alex traveled to 28 different countries, met Pope John Paul II, kings and queens from several different nations and made numerous children smile. Sanders stated, “For many children, when the Globetrotters came to town, it was like a visit from Santa Claus, especially in war torn countries.” He would tour for 10 months, play in approximately 200 games and travel from city to city acting as a goodwill ambassador for the organization. He made many friends during the course of his basketball career; two of them are Tick Rogers

(college teammate) and Andre Branch (Globetrotter teammate). Andre Branch started his basketball career at Baylor in 1995 and played in Europe extensively. He started playing for the Globetrotters in 2001 and retired in May 2011. Branch grew up as a fan of the Globetrotters and was excited about the opportunity to play for them. He has traveled to every continent except Australia. Experiencing all of these races and nations worldwide created a memorable life experience for him. He was astonished by the fact that he was getting paid to do what he loved to do. He is serious about his commission to be a role model to African American youth. He’s troubled by their obsession with negative role models, and society’s answer to that problem, which is building

new prisons and the youth of today thinking that is the way to go. His mission is to encourage young people to step up to the plate and change their train of thought. Rogers took the Le’Vive and Memory Charge and liked it so much that he became a distributor. Memory Charge is a delicious fruit punch that sharpens your memory to support concentration and focus. This quality product is a fusion of Choline and Vitamin B-5 which are crucial for effective memory function. “Tick” Rogers, also an international basketball player, played on overseas teams in Israel and France. He is proud of his contribution to changing the perspective of the world in regards to African Americans. Often people in other countries would have a negative opinion of African Americans because of what they saw on television. Once they had an opportunity to meet members of the team, that perspective was changed. He is currently coaching high school basketball mentoring young people who have the vision of being ball players, reiterating

the importance of them becoming role models for their peers. All of these gentlemen have experienced the benefits of a rejuvenated game after taking Le’Vive. This product concentrates the power of the world’s top f ive superfruit: Pomegranate, Acai Berry, Mangosteen, Gogi, and Noni into one powerful juice. The combination of these superfruit juices leverages their synergetic action in your body to the fullest, helping to support good health. Branch states that he felt a big difference in his game, it gave him m o r e stamina and regardless of how athletically rigorous his day was, he woke up the next day feeling ready for it. Sanders’ attributes t h e

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reduction of his sports induced asthma to taking Le’Vive. His children also have respiratory problems that drastically improved as a result of their taking the juice. These very successful men have all taken the plunge and become Ardyss representatives, now they can get their product wholesale and recruit others to do likewise. If you are interested in acquiring more information about Ardyss, please call me at 832-294-9262.

20. March - April 15, 2012

Ten Important Tips to Lose “So…Why NOT You?” Weight Effectively for Summer

Noel Pinnock, B.S., M.P.A., C.A., CCC, Contributing Writer

By Harold

hen the breeze starts to lose its coolness you know that summer is fast approaching. Excitement and anticipation push you to develop a plan ahead of time for your summer gimmicks together with your family and friends to the extent that you become so relaxed only to find out that you are not physically fit for all your summer adventures; your body tries to fit into your favorite bathing suit or swimming trunks but you find it impossible to do so. Now you need fast solution for your problem! Don’t worry because you can still be able to lose weight for the summer. The truth is weight gain is the result of too much intake of fatty foods in which your body cannot eliminate. So, to be able to lose unwanted weights you need to minimize your calorie intake. Don’t forget that weight loss can be optimized by eating nutritious and healthy foods and engaging into a regular physical exercise to burn excess body fats. Here are some simple and natural weight loss tips to help you shape up for your summer escapades; Drink generous amount of water everyday Professionals advice everyone to drink 8-10 glasses of water everyday or even more as it is the natural way to cleanse the kidneys and push out toxins from the body. But not only that, water is a great appetite suppressant which means that you can minimize your calorie intake. Stay away from the temptation of alcohol If you are really serious in losing weights for summer, then try to turn your back from drinking alcohol. Everyone knows that alcohol can abruptly slow down your metabolism process. Some drinks even contain more

calories. Beware of desserts Saturated fats are great agents in gaining more weights so, minimize on your ice cream and other sweetened foods. Eat more high-protein foods If possible include low fat meals in your diet regime such as cottage cheese, skimmed milk and yogurt. Not only that they are low on fats, they are also packed with more protein essential for the development of muscles and oftentimes serve as appetite suppressants. Shift to natural foods Vegetables and fruits, even if how sweet they are, their sugar content is low because they are natural. While the whole grains and beans are considered “good carbohydrates” which is digested slowly than others. Therefore, they also serve as suppressants. Increase your intake of natural fatty acids These kinds of fatty acids are essential for the metabolism of the body. Omega 3 is the best example which can be found in fishes such as salmon, mackerel, herrings as well as sardines. They will also help in obtaining normal blood pressure which will decrease the risk of heart diseases. Eat more often If possible eat more than three times a day with

“A lot of people have gone further than they thought little amount of food. It will keep your body energized they could because someone you so that you will have else thought they could.” the strength to be active. his is a profound It will also help you boost statement, your metabolism. whose author Go for fibrous foods is unknown; Fibers serve as cleansers however, the resonating for the body because they message is that someone cannot be completely else believes in you digested and stay inside the your knowledge, skills, body longer than any other and abilities. This is a foods. Aside from that, they powerful notion because will help push out toxins to keep your body healthy and our existence is predicated fit. Fibrous foods include by the way we believe other vegetables and fruits like people perceive us. Even the apples, peas, nuts, broccoli, most narcissist isn’t immune to the power, influence, and etc... Regulate your cravings phenomenon of the “others factor.” Psychologist refers for sugar with spices to this as the self-fulfilling If you are a sugar-lover, prophecy; whereby, our then you need to take in behavior is influenced by more spices to neutralize the way we believe others your cravings. Ginger, perceive us; hence, the pepper, mustard, clove popularized Pygmalion and cinnamon are the best Effect: examples. • I am not what I think I am Take your supper early When you are sleeping • I am not what you think I am your body also slows down • BUT I am what I think in digestion process thus, YOU think I am! the burning of stored fats You can see this is also slow. So, take your supper early at least two- principle play out well in three hours before you go classrooms to offices across the globe in practically to sleep. If you really want to every industry imaginable. lose weights, be faithful In a previous D-mars article, to follow these tips. These I wrote that Gerry Fusco, are the best you can do to CEO of Gerry Fusco prepare your body to face Consulting Group, once told me that his father summer with ease. would tell him that he is Author: Harold no better than anyone else www.bloggermakesmoney.info and no one else is better ArticlesGratuits.com - Free than him. This gave him Articles a neutral foundation with everyone he encountered.

He was not intimidated by stature, titles, positions, education, etc. He had a general understanding that he could go anywhere and do practically anything that some else did and possibly do it even better. He believed so because his father believed he could but it did not stop with his father’s belief, he had to believe it for himself too. We can find ourselves on a brink of a breakthrough and then doubt enters our psyche a nd our breakthrough looks more and more like a breakdown and we fizzle out like an extinguishing flame. So, how do you prevent the fizzle and ignite your sizzle. Well, you have to start with yourself and ask the poignant and burning question, why not me? “Why not me” is selfawareness and inflection question that is aimed at digging deep into your internal belief systems. As you know our beliefs produce our thoughts, our thoughts produce our feelings, and our feelings produce our actions. If you are not taking the action you need to take your marriage, career, business, or parenting to the next level, then I would recommend that you: 1. Conduct a belief self-assessment to determine what’s at the core of “you.” Once you, decide to believe in your imminent success or accomplishment, then… 2. Develop an action

plan that will assist you along the life cycle of this venture, project, etc. but it is all too paramount that you… 3. Surround yourself around others that believe in your vision and can see the end result with clarion lenses, naysayers are not allowed here. Remember, we innately do more when others believe we can. Let me say that again, we innately do more when we believe that others believe that we can. I can remember when I was a gymnast and was competing for the gold in a middle school gymnastic tournament at Welch Middle School way back in the ‘80s. I was nervous and the competition was fierce but I can remember my Pershing Middle School coach, Nancy Shrull, who whispered the powerful words of encouragement, “I believe you can take it all.” These words ignited a flame in my heart that solidified my belief that instigated my thought, fueled my feelings that produced the gold medal winning actions. See, it is a cycle and when you know the cycle then I recommend that you enjoy the ride. Be mindful… a lot of people have gone further than they thought they could because someone else thought they could; therefore, I leave you with the resonating question, why not you? I believe you can…so should you!

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22. March - April 15, 2012

Skin Care Tips Specifically For African Americans by Christine Erickson

kin care is most e f f e c t i v e and successful when armed with knowledge. This is the same for all skin colors and skin types. A skin care program for those of African American descent is just as any skin care program, you have to understand what makes your skin unique and different. This knowledge and understanding gives you the power to decide exactly what products are best for your skin. Ultimately regardless of type or color, all skin has certain requirements that must be met to achieve a healthy natural glow. One of the most notable differences that can be seen in the skin makeup of African Americans is the amount of melanin which is produced by the skin cells called melanocytes. All individuals have the same number of melanocytes dispersed throughout the

epidermis layer of their skin, however your skin tone is determined by the amount of melanin produced. Simply put, the more melanin the darker your skin tone and this is the reason why no two individuals regardless of race have exactly the same skin tone. There is of course advantages and disadvantages to having larger amounts of melanin in your skin. The greatest benefit is protection from the sun’s damaging effect which causes everything from sunburns to the premature aging of the skin. African Americans tend to look years if not decades younger than their fair skinned counterparts of the same age. More importantly African Americans are less susceptible to developing skin cancer. In essence the naturally occurring melanin in the skin acts as a partial sunscreen. The important thing to remember is that

this doesn’t completely negate the effects of the sun and a sunscreen of SPF 15 is still recommended for complete protection. As mentioned above there is also challenges to having larger amounts of melanin present. For instance the skin tends to be more reactive meaning that many sorts of trauma or irritation to skin may cause the melanocytes to produce more melanin. This excess production may result in darkened areas or a scarring effect which is called post inflammatory hyper pigmentation and can last months or even years. Therefore special care is needed to avoid these situations and repair any already damaged skin. To minimize the occurrence of unnecessary damage to the skin, here are few simple tips. First of all, be gentle. Although cleansing and exfoliating are necessary, scrubbing

your skin excessively or with to much pressure can cause bruising and microscopic tears. Darker pigmented skin tends to be more delicate and often hides the resulting damage. Clay based exfoliates are recommended because they tend to be gentler on the skin. It is also best to avoid the use of soap on your face, it tends to be harsh and drying. Try to stay away from products with a lot of perfumes as they can cause irritations and rashes. If you have oily skin a purifying cleanser would be a good choice. Black or dark pigmented skin tends to have larger pores, therefore toning is essential. A gentle toner helps to prevent blackheads and to help keep the pores healthy. Moisturizing is a topic which seems to be controversial especially for those individuals that are affected by oily complexions. A large majority of persons with dark skin do indeed

struggle with oily skin however that does not necessarily mean that can not moisturize. There is a vast selection of moistures available that quickly penetrate the skin without leaving a heavy greasy layer to contend with, these are preferred. For the most part, skin is skin, and it is all different regardless of tone or color.

Every individual is different therefore no one product fits all. Use products that fit your individual needs and that give you the results you are looking to achieve. About the Author Looking for skin care tips for your individual skin care issues and those of your family. Want information on the products available. Visit http://www. professionalskincaretreatments.com

Measure Progress Without the Scale An Arsenal of Tools for Your Motivation By Liz Noelcke

hichever you choose, t h e s e emotions are enemies of people trying to lose weight—especially when you feel like you have done everything right. For many trying to shed pounds, the elation from that initial weight loss is brought to a screeching halt when the scale stops moving. But instead of viewing this as a setback, look for other ways to measure your progress besides the scale. After all, good health isn’t always measured in pounds. Losing weight usually involves a relatively simple calorie equation: burn off more calories with daily activity than you consume through food. So what happens when these numbers indicate progress, but the scale doesn’t? Before the aggravation sets in, consider why this might be the case. If you’ve been

hitting the gym on a regular basis, participating in both cardiovascular and strengthening exercises, then chances are good that you have shed some fat. But the scale might not indicate this because you have also been building lean muscle. Since muscle is dense (a small volume of muscle weighs more than the same volume of fat), the scale might not reflect your hard work.

Non-Scale Signs of Progress

1. See results by taking a trip to your very own closet. Take out a pair of pants that fit snugly before you began your new, healthy habits. Are you able to ease into them, when before you had to sit (or lie) down and yank them up your legs? This is a sure sign of progress toward a leaner you! What about an old

shirt? Is it now a little loose around your waist or arms? Also look for improved muscle definition when you check out your body in the mirror. There are many everyday indicators that you are firming up your body, from how your clothes fit to sitting more comfortably in a booth or small chair. 2. Aside from weight, use other numerical signs of progress. When you first start your program, take measurements of your waist, arms, neck and hips. Even if you are not losing pounds, you very well may be losing inches all over your body as your figure slims down and tones up with muscles. Measuring your body is more reliable than the scale alone. Other numerical indicators include a reduction of blood pressure or cholesterol, heart rate, and body fat percentage.

Disappointed? Frustrated? Hopeless? Skeptical? 3. Monitor how a healthy diet and regular exercise affects your energy levels. Not only will you be able to work out for longer intervals of time, but everyday chores will also become easier. Whether cutting the grass or simply walking up the stairs, these behaviors will come effortlessly. Think of all the daily activities you could use more energy for— grocery shopping, house cleaning, playing with your

kids, and more. Pretty soon you’ll be training for your first 5K! 4. Lastly, be conscious of how you feel emotionally. You’ve been working hard to reach your goals. Hopefully, the hard work will come with a boost in self-esteem, confidence, and happiness. Are you beginning to feel more comfortable in your own body? Work to build a positive vocabulary to stay motivated. Just because the scale

has stopped moving doesn’t mean that you’ve hit a plateau in reaching your goals. Don’t give up out of frustration—all healthy behaviors are well worth the effort. Whether it’s better sleep at night or more energy throughout the day, start listening to the signs your body gives you that all of your hard work is paying off! Liz is a journalist who often writes about health and fitness topics.

March - April 15, 2012

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Plastic Surgery for African Americans Concussions By A. Aaronson

By Cedric Nelson, Contributing Writer

t one time, the scope and outcome of ma ny cosmetic s u r g e r y procedures was limited by a lack of resources and a misunderstanding of the wide variety of aesthetic preferences that exists. Plastic surgery was often reserved for the few elite who usually preferred upturned button noses and large breasts. Today cosmetic surgery is more affordable and available to a wider variety of people from different ethnic backgrounds than ever before. Because cosmetic surger y has evolved so much in the past decades, more people than ever are embracing the opportunity to enhance their unique individual beauty, including the African American community. And in order to meet these individual needs, there are many plastic surgeons that specialize in treating African American patients. The goal of a specialized cosmetic surgeon is not to erase ethnic identity, but rather to address specific needs and challenges that occur within the population; the outcome of which improves natural beauty, boosts self-esteem, and retains individuality. Within the African American community there are genetic predispositions that have made plastic surgery difficult in the past. For example, keloid scars can develop on any patient after incision; however, African Americans and those with dark skin pigmentation have a fifteen percent greater chance of developing them. A keloid scar has an unpleasant texture, can feel itchy and uncomfortable, and often causes emotional distress due to its prominence. Although this is a risk that everyone will face after a cosmetic surgery, there are procedures that can help remove them (as well as keloids caused by previous injuries). Laser skin treatments are another cosmetic surgery that, at one time, could not be performed on darker pigmented skin, but now can be performed with

great success. In the past, lasers often burned and discolored African American skin, making it look blotchy and uneven. Now skilled technicians have a greater understanding of how to successfully treat darker pigments. Laser resurfacing can help remove acne scars, rough skin, and uneven skin tone. Laser hair removal is also possible and able to treat ingrown hairs that can be prevalent in the African American population. Although Caucasians of ten pre fer bre a s t au g ment at ion, bre a s t re duc t ion i s g a i n i n g popularity among African American women. Beyond aesthetics, excessively large breasts can cause emotional and physical discomfort. Posture is affected, back pain is common, and finding properly fitted clothing and undergarments can be difficult. Breast reduction surgery relieves associated pain and often boosts confidence allowing women to partake in more activities such as athletics. It is also one of the few cosmetic procedures that is covered by many health insurance companies. Lack of understanding and skill is no longer an

issue for people of different ethnic backgrounds. If you’re interested in undergoing plastic surgery, either to improve your appearance, confidence, or to find relief from a painful condition, there are many specialized cosmetic surgeons who are sensitive to the unique nature and needs of different ethnic backgrounds. New technology and techniques allow people of all races and communities to undergo successful cosmetic procedures without compromising their individuality. Choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon, researching the procedure, and having realistic expectations can help you achieve your aesthetic goals no matter what your background. The most important task when you opt for plastic surgery, is finding a competent surgeon for your procedure. Contact the best plastic surgeon in Houston, who is both board-certified and experienced, for your free consultation at www. basuplasticsurgery.com. Article Source: http:// EzineArticles.com/?expert=A_ Aaronson

e all love to see our child out on the playing field and I must admit I was one those Dads’s that never wanted to see his son on the bench for any reason. That day finally came in September of 2008 when my son sustained a concussion in a football game against West Columbia. My wife and I had heard of other individuals getting concussions but never really paid attention, because as always we never think it can never happen to us or our family. After my son was hit, he got up and began to walk into the other teams huddle. At that point he was immediately pulled from the game. After the game he was very emotional, this is one of the symptoms as I would later find out. I had no problem with him being pulled out of the game. The problems came days later after we had taken him to see a doctor that was recommended to us. Dr. David Braunreiter administered a test to determine if my son indeed had a concussion, the test results showed that he did. Dr. Braunreiter recommended he have a complete brain rest, which meant no school, television and no practice for 3 weeks. Of course this did not sit well with me considering he was a senior, it was early in the season and he had 3 colleges that showed some interest in him. This also didn’t sit well with some of the coaches at his school, some wanted to rush him back, some thought he

was faking the injury and I actually had one coach to tell me he thought he was faking because he had seen him get hit harder in practice. I was furious because my son was one of their star players and they were treating him this way. Well that was nothing compared to when we learned more about his concussion. Concussions are brain traumas that can causes long-term and short-term physical and mental issues. For example some of the symptoms are, a 12th grader reading on a 6th grade level, vision problems, and the reduction of the ability to use motor skills. These are just a few symptoms that were noticeable in my son after the Impact test showed the decline in his brain function. Immediately my son also began to experience headaches, confusion, dizziness, vomiting and tiredness. I am happy he went to Dr. Braunreiter, he was great. The one thing I hope parents can take from this article is, don’t allow anyone to dictate how you should handle your child. Please don’t rush them back into sports after a diagnosis of this kind, let them take their time to heal.

There is a baseline test that can be given before the season starts to see where your child is mentally and physically before a concussion occurs. Please have it done; it helps everyone and especially the doctor and your child if they experience rough play during a game. While writing this article I remembered while I was working on a high school officiating crew, I did see the dangers from a child coming to back too soon. A couple of year ago at Tully Stadium I did witness a kid get his head bounced off the turf. He was pulled out of the game, but he was not stable and the following day he was playing and he took another hit to the head again and began to have a seizure on the field. We later learned it was because he had been rushed back into the game. My son did get a scholarship and the college knew about his concussion and they still gave him the scholarship. Although he doesn’t play football anymore, he’s still in college and doing very well. For more information on the baseline and Impact tests, feel free to email me at cnelson@gchospice.com.

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24. March - April 15, 2012

March - April 15, 2012

THE EXPERT NETWORK

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THE EXPERT NETWORK

March - April 15, 2012

THE EXPERT NETWORK

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