From the Publisher

Getting Old is For the Birds

You know, I always dread my birthday because it means another year older. I don’t know why we, as kids, wanted to grow up so fast. I miss the days of no worries, no bills, eating all food types, and staying out as long as I wanted. I mean, I haven’t had a McDonalds burger and fries since 2016. Oh, what I would do for a Whopper with cheese and onion rings from Burger King! I started something maybe five years ago: getting my annual physical done to make sure I am going to live for a long time. I mean, I make my kids go to their well visits every year, why not make myself responsible for myself? Well, the last five years have been a crap shoot. I know my family’s medical history, and I refuse to let it happen to me. Guess what? It finally did. I have learned so much this past year, and without my history of these yearly physicals, I may be way worse than I am today. I had a hysterectomy because all of the signs were showing early, and you know, why keep those parts if my family is complete? My doctor was able to build a case that it was time, and I didn’t want to sit around and wait for uterine cancer. So, that was done. My next journey was to see a hepatologist because my liver enzymes are through the roof, cholesterol is high, thyroids low, and I am now insulin resistant. How does all this happen? As I talk to my friends and family, all I can say is that turning 40 really sucks for me. However, I will be optimistic like my doctor that this will be temporary. We will get my levels under control, change my eating habits again, and get more active. Well, once the spring weather arrives! I encourage you all to start scheduling yearly visits and putting your health first. To help get you started, this issue of Nola Family has a special section featuring Top Notch Docs, information on changing doctors, and dealing with depression. I’m grateful that I made myself a priority by sticking to my yearly visits, and I hope that you will join me and do the same.