GameChangers 2021 Awareness Edition
The Conscious Culture Magazine
Volume 5: Issue 27
THE AWARENESS ISSUE SYLVIA DENNISWRAY:
The Heart Behind the Movement T H E 2021 WA L K T O E N D A L Z H E I M E R’S MOS T COMMON MALE CANCER
EVERYDAY ...A Story of Alzheimer’s GAMECHANGERSMEDIANETWORK.ONLINE
““
WE REMEMBER BEHIND EVERY THEIR LOVE WHEN SMALL BUSINESS THEY NO IS ACAN FAMILY. LONGER—UNKNOWN REMEMBER.
””
GameChangers 2021 Awareness Edition
The Conscious Culture Magazine
Volume 5: Issue 27
THE AWARENESS ISSUE SYLVIA DENNISWRAY:
The Heart Behind the Movement T H E 2021 WA L K T O E N D A L Z H E I M E R’S MOS T COMMON MALE CANCER
EVERYDAY ...A Story of Alzheimer’s GAMECHANGERSMEDIANETWORK.ONLINE
T HE AWA R ENESS ISSUE 2021 Awareness Edition EDI T OR IN CHIEF Andreal Mallard, Founder & Publisher Design a nd L ayou t Anna Yang, Pierre Br anding Group, LLC Con tr ibu t or s Shawn Raleigh, Chilton Stewart, Dominique Huff, Adrian Cox, Melissa Ellis, Gale Lawrence, Sabrina Newby, Kaley Ramsey, Brandon Abernathy and Tracey Williams Br a nd M a nagemen t Serv ices Ly di a P ier r e, Pierre Br anding Group, LLC w w w.pierrebr andinggroup.com Info@pierrebr andinggroup.com
BEHIND THIS ISSUE
EDI T OR I A L OF F ICES Game Changers Magazine 1535 Pennsylvania Ave McDonough, GA 30253 404-201-8754 | gamechangerstvandradio@gmail.com
FA C EB O OK @GAMECHANGERSMEDIANETWORK
T W I T T ER @GCMEDIANETWORK
I N S T A GR A M GAMECHANGERSMEDIANETWORK GAMECHANGERSTVANDRADIO@GMAIL.COM GAMECHANGERSMEDIANETWORK.ONLINE
G A M E C H A N G E R S M AG A Z I N E I S P U B L I S H E D BY G A M E C H A N G E R S M E D I A N E T WO R K , L LC D I S C L A I M E R : T H E A R T I C L E S A N D T H O U G H T S I N T H I S P U B L I C AT I O N A R E T H E S O L E O P I N I O N O F T H E I N D I V I D UA L AU T H O R O R G R O U P T H AT E X P R E S S E S T H E M A N D D O N O T N E C E S S A R I LY R E F L E C T T H E V I E W S O F G A M E C H A N G E R S M E D I A N E T WO R K . B Y A L L M E A N S , W E W E LC O M E C O M M E N T S F R O M O U R R E A D E R S . T O S E N D M AT E R I A L T O B E I N C LU D E D I N T H I S P U B L I C AT I O N , E M A I L U S AT G A M E C H A N G E R S T VA N D R A D I O @ G M A I L . C O M . B E S U R E T O I N C LU D E A N A M E A N D A R E A O F R E S I D E N C E . P L E A S E N O T E , W E M A I N TA I N T H E R I G H T T O E D I T F O R B R E V I T Y A N D C L A R I T Y. A L L S U B M I T T E D A R T I C L E S B E C O M E P R O P E R T Y O F G A M E C H A N G E R S M AG A Z I N E A N D M AY B E U S E D AT A N Y T I M E A N D B Y A N Y O F O U R A F F I L I AT E S .
GameChangers THE CONSCIOUS CULTURE MAGAZINE
CONTENTS GREAT READS 7
PUBLISHER’S NOTE
11
FINANCIAL FREEDOM THROUGH REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT
13
YES BIZ HUB
45 MOST COMMON MALE CANCER
COMMUNITY, NEWS AND UPDATES 9
5TH ANNUAL CHAIRMAN TURNER’S ANNUAL BALL
12
THE NEWBY’S GARDEN
16
A TRUE AMERICAN FAMILY
17
BLACK OWNED INVESTMENT COMPANY BUCKS THE TREND
19
A WARRIOR MARRIED TO HIS WIFE AND PTSD
THE HEART BEHIND THE MOVEMENT A glimpse on Sylvia Dennis-Wray’s work in the community for those affected by Alzheimer’s and more / P34
PATIENT & CAREGIVER On navigating the challenges of Alzheimer’s / P36
34 ALZHEIMER’S: THE PATIENT & CAREGIVER 38 A NEW HOPE FOR A NEW FAITH 43 LET’S TALK HEALTH AND MEDICARE INSURANCE 40 STOCKBRIDGE’S FIRST BLACK MAYOR
FEATURES 22
2021 WALK TO END ALZHEIMER’S
30 EVERYDAY...A STORY OF ALZHEIMER’S 36 THE HEART BEHIND THE MOVEMENT
NEWBY’S GARDEN
Eradicating food apartheid in the community / P12
EVERYDAY
Melissa’s story on how Alzheimer’s affects her life daily / P30
W W W. G A M EC H A N G ER S M ED I A N E T WO R K . O N L I N E
However also in the early 2010s we discovered the setbacks of Dementia and Alzheimer which we currently see many of our elder love ones suffering from this very day. Nobody knew how to deal with it, doctors basically had no clue how to cure it and family members watched loved ones lose memory, forget how to simply dress themselves and suffer tremendously from everyday Quality of life. What happened in the same breathe we were waking up, the same breathe our elders and ancestors were loosing their minds. Could it be a shift, a transition??? Or is this a spiritual battle many of us don’t understand. Over the past 10 years I myself have seen family members suffer from Dementia and Alzheimer’s even losing family members to the battle. I watched older aunties and uncles forget my name or who I was and to see them suffer was almost unbearable. The pain was s true wake up to why, what is it? Are we not eating right, could it be the medication provided to elders? What makes a person go from being the sharpest apple on the tree to the nature of mucus on old fruit.. strange I say!
PUBLISHER’S NOTE:
WokeAwakenAware
T
he early 2010s the term Woke arrived on the scene and globally people of consciousness embraced it as a level of awakening to supremacy and oppression tactics. Many modern individuals turned away from the church, some aspects of the Bible and lost hope in traditional religion practiced by our parents and prior generations turning to the essence of spiritually. For myself the term Woke is more like awareness, awareness that awakens many of us to eat different, practice better health habits and a growing love of self thru fasting, meditation and healing.
Awareness on breast cancer, sickle cell, diabetes, many things that effect the individuals everyday from dioing the simple things we often take for granted. In this edition of Game Changers Magazine our team wanted to shed light of a few plagues that outside of COVID-19 are still relevant today. I Renner losing an employee to breathe cancer, a childhood friend to sickle cell and a father to diabetes. All these diseases and suffering health issues have impacted us all in some form or fashion with statistics showing Alzheimer’s rising up the ladder as something that really is a huge factor in some people’s day to day lives. I pray this content heals and break cycles of lack of education and knowledge of how we all can do our part to help those around who suffer from any of these issues to overcome and defeat the battles. Although it’s a long road ahead, I’m thankful for those on the front line helping with research, providing assistance, or volunteering for the fight against any cause that may have an effect on your life. We all have a part to play and whatever your personal journey isay blessings and healing be a part of it. #EducateTheMind #ElevateTheSpirit #EliminateTheStereotype #EEEsUp
Andreal Mallard
Editor in Chief / Founder / Publisher
GAME CHANGERS MAGAZINE | 7
Digital Marketing Solutions GameChangersMediaNetwork.Online GameChangersMediaNetwork.online offers custom solutions through our strategic and creative advertising opportunities: Editorial Alignment Native Integration at Events Video, Digital and Social Executions Podcast Sponsorships Mobile App Experience For more information, please contact please contact Publisher Andreal Mallard at gamechangerstvandradio@gmail.com
GAME CHANGER: VISIONARY; SOMEONE WHO LOOKS BEYOND CONVENTIONAL METHODS; CONCEIVES NEW STRATEGIES; WORKS TO TRANSFORM THEIR INDUSTRY; URBAN DICTIONARY
Game changers magazine is a full color print and digital urban lifestyle magazine with focus in Entertainment, Politics, Education, and Community based initiatives as they relate to the urban audience. Targeting readers between the ages of 18 to 55, the readership is advantageous to advertisers. After years of thorough research and contributing to the best selling Urban Entertainment Magazines, Game Changers has developed a foundation that embodies the best attributes. Game changers differentiates itself from other entertainment related publications by covering the various facets of urban culture in a manner that is not only reader friendly but also well received equally by both male and female audiences. This is greatly due to our involvement in the community and our relationships which includes several of the most well respected community leaders offering a broad range of perspectives for our audiences reading pleasure. Our editorial staff not only writes about the urban lifestyle, we live it. You can expect competitive content due to our relationships with several entertainment/politically related companies. We would like to offer you the opportunity to have your clients, products, or services featured in various sections of our magazine. We support many entrepreneurs, business owners, elected officials, community leaders and small businesses in the community and supporting the fastest growing Independent Urban media outlet.
5th Annual
CHAIRMAN TURNER’S INTERNATIONAL BALL CLAYTON COUNTY, GA –Clayton County Board of Commissioners’ Chairman, Jeffrey E. Turner, is hosting the 5th Annual Chairman Turner’s International Ball on Saturday, October 9, 2021 at the Georgia International Convention Center. Clayton County is home to numerous nationalities and international businesses with over 70 languages spoken. Chairman Turner’s International Ball celebrates this rich heritage and diversity of Clayton County and raises money for a local non-profit. Guests will enjoy international food, cultural presentations and dance to live music representing the ethnic diversity of Clayton County. “For 5 years the Ball has raised funds for a deserving nonprofit organization. This year we are excited to be supporting Veterans Helping Veterans based in Riverdale, GA. For over 9 years they have provided much needed assistance to more than 500
veterans and their spouses each year, educating them on the benefits they have earned. We are proud to donate proceeds to this well deserving organization,” said Chairman Turner. Veterans Helping Veterans is an organization committed to building lives for veterans and their families through quality service, integrity, passionate representation and advocate services. “We welcome this great opportunity to participate in Chairman Turner’s International Ball. Veterans Helping Veterans is an organization that is on a mission to help veterans receive their benefits and understand their entitlements. VHV is committed to building better lives for veterans, their families and the community through advocacy,” said Herman Anderson, Board Chairman, Veterans Helping Veterans. Registration information, sponsorship and event details can be found at https://www.chairmanturnersball.org.
GAME CHANGERS MAGAZINE | 9
Financial Freedom through Real Estate Investment
Whether you’re new to real estate investing or have been around the real estate block a few times, this book sets you on a path to clearer goals, better techniques, tricks of the trade and the mental armour needed to move forward and achieve your investing goals.
can be obtained by following the road that has been paved ahead of you. That path can be made far more clearer when an experienced guide can light your way.
Inside this book you’ll learn:
With over 30 years of real estate investing experience, Adrian Cox gives you a clearly focused investing approach to reach freedom through real estate investing. This can be achieved by investing in 1-4 unit residential properties that prove to be I.D.E.A.L. investments by providing Income, Depreciation, Equity build up, Appreciation and Leverage to do additional deals and obtain FREEDOM!
Why Real Estate Investing is I.D.E.A.L. 5 Ways To Get Started in Real Estate 7 Keys to Building a Real Estate Empire Types of Real Estate Financing How to Find Off Market Deals Steps to Estimating Rehab Costs A Focused System to Build Wealth in Real Estate And much much more!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR Adrian Cox is a 30+ year accountant, professional trumpet player, softball coach, writer, golfer, pool player, father and husband. Adrian is a proud Alumnus of Morehouse College and a business and real estate investing expert. Adrian has over 30 years of real-world experience across several industries including Accounting, Consulting, Business Brokering, and Real Estate Investing. He co-manages a million-dollar organization along with his wife of 20+ years and has completed millions of dollars in Business and Real Estate transactions. Adrian's sincere goal is to help the readers of this book learn how they too can fire their boss and find Financial Freedom through Real Estate Investment.
YES is an oasis for business owners and entrepreneurs to receive informational nourishment in order to thrive as leaders in the business community. Born from the love of entrepreneurship from an enterprising couple, YES is a place to Enjoy, Network, Socialize, Learn and Collaborate. Housed in the downtown district of the City of Tucker at 2321 Main Street, YES makes entrepreneurship a social event. By holding empowerment conferences, social events, workshops, trainings, wine tasting events, fine dining events, networking events, book releases and more, YES is not a typical event venue. With an excellent sound system and even a Podcast room for content creators, YES brings minds, money and motivated entrepreneurs into the same room time and time again. The venue is used for both private events, public events or one of the regular recurring featured events, knowledge, entertainment and mutual exchange is always on the menu at YES. GAME CHANGERS MAGAZINE | 11
THE NEWBY’S GARDEN:
Eradicating Food Apartheid in the Community
W
e started organic gardening as our therapy because we believe working in a garden is connected to God and save money on organic fruits and veggies, but it quickly became more.
As we grew our garden, it slowly became something extraordinary for the community. We started germinating and planting the easier to grow fruits and vegetables like Cucumbers. However, after seeing our abundant harvest, we started sharing them with the community, churches, etc., which was greatly received. We realized there was a need within the community, so we began to strategize a more extensive plan which meant prepping our backyard for a much more significant project. We created plot beds to grow Peppers, Melons, Tomatoes, and Okra. Once they were successful, we moved on to the more tasking organic vegetables and fruits like Papaya, Pineapple, Pomegranates, Eggplants, Squash, and any popular vegetable or fruits on the coast yet expensive within underserved communities. We hope to help eradicate the Food Apartheid here in Liberty County, GA., and we are doing just that so far.
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TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE NEWBY’S GARDEN, YOU CAN FIND THEM ON FACEBOOK AND INSTAGRAM
@TheNewbysGarden.
BIO GAME CHANGERS MAGAZINE | 16
A TRUE AMERICAN J FAMILY erry and Kim Knight are a TRUE American family that is living the American dream right here in Henry County GA. They are parents, Christians, church goers, and most importantly proud dedicated members of the Henry Co. community.
After visiting and even living in other states they found themselves constantly drawn to Georgia in general Henry Co. in particular!
The Knight family recently purchased their dream home in South GA. The Knights built their home from frame to finish completely from the ground up. They moved to Henry County because they love the schools and sense of community. They enjoy everything from the people to the very large strange insects. As members of the Tabernacle of Praise church family they are excited about the impact the church and pastor McBride are having in the community and couldn’t be more positive about the future.
The couple feels there is as sense of racial equality experienced in Henry County that the rest of Georgia or even the world has experienced yet While the rest of America has protest and rallies based on “defunding the police” the Knights have yet to experience anything that would make them feel that way about local law enforcement, says Kim: My encounters with local police have always been very pleasant. Any encounter that I’ve had has never been what you see on the internet or tv.
“It used to be a good ole boy type situation my person experiences I haven’t seen that within the years that we’ve been here they’ve always treated me very respectfully Black or White [Cop] I told him that’s one thing that I am happy about being here because I don have to fear the police. So that makes me feel good. Somebody that’s out here to serve and protect I actually feel safe with them around.” Jerry agrees: Jerry “There’s no difference between APD and Henry Co Police. YOU Have good and bad in police, black people, white people. There’s no difference in people. Im sorry I m not trying to preach but its a spirit and spirit is color blind. Hate is hate it doesn’t matter what color you are.” Currently this modern middle class power couple has had to deal with negative press about their response to Covid 19 and mandatory mask mandates as they pushed for the mask mandate a better common sense safety precautions for their family and community. They went to school and saw no Social Distancing, no shielding So when you have children HAVE no protection Your feelings should not effect how we live. Jerry has Asthma and Kim has MS they both HAVE A 9 YEAR OLD AND KIMS MOTHER LIVES WITH THEM. SO the potential for Covid to devastate their family is very very real]. Swell Henry Co didn’t mandate masks and the virus spread very aggressively. They Knights are very pro mask and wanted to champion being pro mask. At a board meeting they weren’t letting the public talk. The Media outlets made it seem as though Kim was just an angry black woman screaming for Masks and protection. But her anger was in response to what was happening at the meeting.
Black Owned Investment Company Bucks The Trend on Traditional Investing and Turns $6K to $500K Atlanta, GA— A small investing firm is making major moves in the investment game. A black-owned investment firm, the organization is owned by a group of childhood friends who saw the lack of financial education in the community as disparaging as it looked. Sean McCray, Sr., Trevonza Bobbitt, Sr., and Tracy Adams joined forces to form Kountry Wall Street (KWS) to provide financial education to those who need it. Officially formed on August 5, 2020. It was created for the purpose of educating people who live in traditionally underserved communities, such as the one in which theygrew up, about financial literacy with an emphasis on stock market investing and credit education. They are an investment management group committed to assisting people in building generational wealth through credit and financial education. The world saw the birth of many businesses and virtual ventures during the pandemic, and the area of investments was no exception. With new ways to invest via apps like Robinhood, Cashapp, Acorns, and SoFi and a small cash flow through the government's care package, investing in stock and an eagerness to understand how to save and properly spend became the thought at the forefront of a lot of peoples mind. People didn't need help in knowing how to spend the money (evident through the amount new Amazon trucks you'll see in an area) but rather how to properly use it. Through their unique approach, KWS aims to complete just that.
As veteran’s of our armed services the couple doesn’t feel obligated o stand during the Nation Anthem and made these feelings known publicly during the meeting which turned into an anti Covid rally before their eyes. At that same meeting they saw they potential of violence becoming real because of screaming and shouting vs listening to each other and speaking honestly.Yet somehow Kim is seen as they aggressor during that event. Despite the failed attempts to attack Kim she still believes in open communication. Both Jerry and Kim were disappointed in the media coverage of the whole event.
"We have new and innovative investment strategies, and we also want to bring people who have been traditionally “locked out” of the investing arena into the fold. This includes younger investors, aging investors, and investors from all ethnic backgrounds. Our company is in the business of “Mindset Changing”. We do not subscribe to the notion of waiting until you are 62 – 67 years old to retire or working for thirty years to receive a retirement check which, if you are lucky, maybe equivalent to 60% of your working salary. We want to free people from their everyday 9 to 5 jobs and show them that they control their own destiny. There is a piece of pie for everyone," Tracy Adams, Co-Founder.
Yet that will not stop the power couple from creating their dream life in South GA!
Kountry Wall Street has its foot on the gas and does not plan on letting up any time soon. GAME CHANGERS MAGAZINE | 17
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BIO
A Warrior
Married to His C Wife and PTSD
urtis Butler III was born and raised in Charleston, South Carolina. His family originates from the small, nearby town of Aiken. After finishing school, Curtis joined the military. He served his nation admirably both at home and during combat and decided the time was right to leave his service and start a civilian life. Somewhere along the way things failed to turn out as planned. Curtis soon found himself homeless while facing one of the toughest battles of his life. Instead of allowing the situation to dictate his life, Curtis struck out and took control making him an hero all over again by winning a seven year fight with the VA Administration in obtaining his benefits rights, been awarded his entire past financial payments, and help others in the same situation. Curtis is now an advocate for Veteran’s and an author. His second book, A Warrior Married to His Wife and PTSD. It is his deep sense of loyalty and camaraderie that continues to exist even though his days in uniform are finished that keep him on track and allow him to carry on his newest mission, inspiring and helping others. Curtis knows far too many Veteran’s come home to nothing and are soon forgotten. It is his hope to help as many of his former battle buddies during their struggle to find meaning and purpose in the real world as they adjust to a normal life. You can learn more about Curtis’ incredible journey here: Swagger Magazine MindMySuccessPodcast GAME CHANGERS MAGAZINE | 19
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Curtis Butler III’s newly released “A Warrior Married to His Wife and PTSD” shares the author’s eventful memoir of moments in his personal life and the battlefield. “A Warrior Married to His Wife and PTSD” from Christian Faith Publishing author Curtis Butler III is a thought-provoking book that shares the author’s journey through the harrows of the battlefield and his endearing life with his family that exude with hope and support.
“A Warrior Married to His Wife and PTSD”: a stirring account of the author’s circumstances as an impassioned soldier who served in the battlefield and how his experiences impacted his personal life and worldview. “A Warrior Married to His Wife and PTSD” is the creation of published author Curtis Butler III, a dedicated and proud serviceman. Butler III shares, “Life in Baghdad, Iraq, in October 2003 and again in 2006 was like living in a CrockPot. It was hot, and the breeze, if you can call it that, was just as hot. We would travel to strange destinations to attend meetings, drop off supplies, or pick up soldiers. We even performed guard duty and with the scorching temperatures. The protective gear that we wore added about twenty degrees and an extra thirty pounds. The temperature was approximately 140 degrees or better. I was told to put on some suntan lotion, and I thought the officer was making a joke because I did not know a black man could get a sunburn in the desert; this is to be true. “Proud. “Tough. “Strong. “Determined.” Published by Christian Faith Publishing, Curtis Butler III’s new book will surely fill the readers with inspiration and understanding for the sacrifices of their country’s soldiers for the security and peace of life and welfare. Readers are invited to witness the powerful testimony of a soldier as he recounts his life in battle with the pains of war and the tragedies that define his life.
Good news. Rates just got lower. Good news. Good news. Rates just got lower. Rates just got lower. Good news. Rates just got lower.
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View the synopsis of “A Warrior Married to His Wife and PTSD” on YouTube. Consumers can purchase “A Warrior Married to His Wife and PTSD” at traditional brick-and-mortar bookstores or online at Amazon.com, Apple iTunes store, or Barnes and Noble. For additional information or inquiries about “A Warrior Married to His Wife and PTSD,” contact the Christian Faith Publishing media department at
866-554-0919.
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893 Highway 138 W 422 Highway 155 S Stockbridge, GA 30281 McDonough, GA 30253 Bus: 770-282-6622 Bus: 678-782-3005 Kim Mays, Agent Sherry Ann Devouse-Dennard, Agent sherry.a.devouse-dennard.xd8s@statefarm.com kim.mays.xmv7@statefarm.com 893 Highway 138 W 422 Highway S Mon-Friday 9am155 - 5pm Monday-Friday 9:00am-5:00pm Stockbridge, GA 30281 McDonough, GA - 30253 Saturday 9am 1pm Agent Saturday 9:00am-1:00pm Kim Mays, Agent Sherry Ann Devouse-Dennard, Bus: 770-282-6622 Bus: 678-782-3005 893 Highway 138 W 422 Highway 155 S sherry.a.devouse-dennard.xd8s@statefarm.com kim.mays.xmv7@statefarm.com Stockbridge, GA 30281 McDonough, GA 30253 Mon-Friday 9am - 5pm Monday-Friday 9:00am-5:00pm Bus: 770-282-6622 Bus: 678-782-3005 Saturday 9am - 1pm Saturday 9:00am-1:00pm sherry.a.devouse-dennard.xd8s@statefarm.com kim.mays.xmv7@statefarm.com Mon-Friday 9am - 5pm Monday-Friday 9:00am-5:00pm Saturday 9am - 1pm Saturday 9:00am-1:00pm Kim Mays, Agent Sherry Ann Devouse-Dennard, Agent 893 Highway 138 W 422 Highway 155 S Stockbridge, GA 30281 McDonough, GA 30253 Bus: 770-282-6622 Bus: 678-782-3005 sherry.a.devouse-dennard.xd8s@statefarm.com kim.mays.xmv7@statefarm.com State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company, State Farm Indemnity Company, Bloomington, IL Mon-Friday Monday-Friday State9:00am-5:00pm Farm County Mutual Insurance Company of Texas, Richardson,9am TX - 5pm Saturday 9am - 1pm Saturday 9:00am-1:00pm
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State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company, State Farm Indemnity Company, Bloomington, IL | 21 GAME CHANGERS MAGAZINE State Farm County Mutual Insurance Company of Texas, Richardson, TX
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State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company, State Farm Indemnity Company, Bloomington, IL State Farm County Mutual Insurance Company of Texas, Richardson, TX
20 1 2021
A L KW TO END WALK TO These flowers have a lot of fight in them.
The Alzheimer's Association Walk to End. Alzheimer's® is full of flowers, each carried by someone committed to ending this disease. Because like flowers, our participants don't stop when something's in their way. They keep raising funds and awareness for a breakthrough in the fight against Alzheimer's and all other dementia. Held annually in more than 600 communities nationwide, Walk to End Alzheimer's is the world's largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer's care, support and research. The 2021 Walk to End Alzheimer's - Henry County, GA was held on Saturday, September 18, 2021.
ALZHEIMER’S
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More than
6 MILLION Americans are living with
Alzheimer’s. It kills more people than breast cancer and prostate cancer combined. Alzheimer’s and dementia deaths have increased by 16% during the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2021, Alzheimer’s and other dementia will cost the nation
$355 BILLION. By 2050, these costs could rise to more than
$1.1 TRILLION.
The Henry County Alzheimer’s Association is leading the fight against Alzheimer’s and all other dementias. Our walk was held on Saturday, September 18th and was a great success. There were hundreds that came out and participated including Elected officials, McDonough Police Department, Henry County Sherriff Department, and the Alzheimer’s Association. The route was 2 miles. Our fundraising goal is $45,000 and we are currently at $19,872. So, we need your help! Please continue to encourage everyone to continue donating and share the above facts and figures. We still have time to reach our goal. Our deadline for donations is November 30, 2021. We would like to thank everyone that came out on walk day and everyone who has already made generous donations.
#ENDALZ
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FEATURE ARTICLE
Everyday… A Story of Alzheimer’s BY MELISSA ELLIS
E
veryday seems like a great thing when you think of dessert or vacations. Some dread working out every day or going to work and some love it. With Alzheimer’s, everyday’s an adventure. Three years ago, my mother was diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s. It was mostly the topic of cute little jokes and making light of funny recollections. But as things progressed, funny is not really a word I would use to describe the “everyday”.
Alzheimer’s disease affects patients differently. My mother has always had the gift of gab and tells interesting stories. That is still the case...One of the biggest adjustments has been “Joining her in her reality”. Like most Americans, our everyday life consists of tasks and routines. We are tasked with taking medication, activities of daily living and meals. Now we spend some time every day on car rides. My mom since being diagnosed has not been able to drive. She cannot stand that we do not allow her to drive. She often makes threats of buying a new car so she can go and do what she wants. Or going walking up I-75. Unfortunately, this is not a reality. So EVERYDAY, we make it a point to take my mom out. Sometimes just for a ride to run errands, shopping, or out to eat. She always loved to shop so we have had to learn how to window shop, but still shop nonetheless. Alzheimer’s disease affects patients differently. My mother has always had the gift of gab and tells interesting stories. That is still the case. Now the details that were once intricate are muddled with other memories and sometimes delusions of things that never happened. Still makes for an interesting story. One of the biggest adjustments has been “Joining her in her reality”. In reading on the disease, they advise caregivers to join their loved one in the reality that they present instead of correcting them. It was really hard at first.
It just did not seem right letting her believe the things she was making up or was getting mixed up. But I did begin to notice how it made her feel when she was corrected. You could see the disappointment and worry in her face. It was like she did not understand at times. So, I began just agreeing with her on things if it wasn’t anything serious or harmful. I remember going to CVS on one of our daily outings. When we got in the car, she immediately cut in talking about how rude the cashier was. I agreed and added some mmmhmmms. In reality, that cashier was perfectly appropriate. She was not rude and helped us just as she would anyone else. But instead of correcting, I agreed and laughed as we dogged the lady out for being rude. The cashier never knew a thing, my mom was supported. We are believing in God for total restoration of my mother’s mental faculties. And everyday we confess His will and divine healing. For those who are caregivers, continue to be encouraged. Find resources and support and most importantly take care of yourselves. I am encouraged that we have everyday together until God says otherwise. So, wave when you see us out and about… everyday. GAME CHANGERS MAGAZINE | 31
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Alzheimer’s: The Patient & Caregiver
BY SHAWN RALEIGH AKA GHETTO POLITICIAN
W
e all have that special elder in the family that we can count on. We could always look to get some sound wisdom advise or just a good laugh from. We cherish and love them dearly. We learn so much from them as a child on throughout our adult life. Can you imagine going to visit one day and somehow they are not the same. Something is very different. So different that the smile and warm greeting you have been getting your entire life has become a blank stare filled with quietness. And when you finally hear from them it may be questions like "What's your name? or Where am I?" At that moment you realize that not only has their life changed but yours has as well. The wisdom the laughter the great advice has all vanished. It seems so unreal however it became the reality for people from all nationalities or ethnic groups. And that reality is called Alzheimer’s disease and related Dementia. Alzheimer’s! What is Alzheimer’s? Alzheimer’s is the most common and progressive form of a cognitive disease called dementia. This condition relates to the brain involving conscious and intellectual activities such as thinking reasoning or remembering. It is a very complicated condition. It all began when a protein called Amyloid-Beta is formed from the breakdown of a larger protein called Amyloid Precursor or protein clumps together forming plaque between neurons, causing cell function in the brain to improperly operate. The risk factors for Alzheimer's is higher once a person reaches the age of 65. With women making up nearly 2/3 of individuals living with this condition. Reason being is that women lose more mitochondria than men do as they age. African-Americans have the highest prevalence of Alzheimer’s and related Dementia at 13.8%, followed by Hispanics 12.2%, Non-Hispanics/ Whites 10.3%, American-Indian/Alaskan Natives 9.1, & Asian/Pacific Islanders at 8.4. Although in most cases it seems that Alzheimer’s just abruptly appears undetected. Well according to Sylvia Dennis, Executive Director of the Alzheimer’s Service Center located in Clayton County, Ga, there are early onset symptoms that can be recognized. Some are as follows: forgetting recent
info, trouble following instructions, behavioral and personality changes, trouble communicating, hiding or hoarding items, visual and decision difficulty, decline in personal hygiene and skipping meals. She recommends that if you notice any of the aforementioned please immediately make arrangements for your loved one to be evaluated. The sooner you can catch it the better you can prepare for it. There are actually two sides to living with Alzheimer’s. You have the patient and then there are those who care for the patient. Caregiver is the most common term used for those who assist the patients. Often times in the beginning stages it's a child or a grandchild of the patient who steps up and dedicates themselves to caring for their loved one. However it's not long before they become overwhelmed juggling their day to day activities and trying to be the caregiver. The situation can and oftentimes does become frustrating. And they realize that they actually need help helping their loved one. Fret not because there are resources available. Sylvia Dennis understands firsthand just how complex and complicated Alzheimer’s can be. Her journey to becoming Executive Director of the Alzheimer’s Service Center has been a personal and passionate one. Her mother was diagnosed in 2002. And in 2003 she took on full responsibility of caring for her. The more she didn't understand about what this condition was all about, the more she searched and researched for understanding. It became a passion that lead her out in the community. She participated in walks in neighboring counties in support of Alzheimer’s. And eventually began to organize her own walks. Participation wasn't as great but it never stopped her drive and passion to being a difference maker. As Executive Director of the Alzheimer’s Service Center in Clayton County she wants all who has been or currently facing this situation to know that you are not alone in the battle. She and her staff are well trained to assist you in making sure your loved one gets love and care as you yourself would give them when in their care at their facility. They are not just employees but are a understandable dependable and reliable resource in servicing the patient and the caregiver. GAME CHANGERS MAGAZINE | 35
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SY L V I A D E N N IS - W R AY
The Heart Behind the Movement
PROFILE
S
ylvia Dennis-Wray was born in Perry, GA but was raised in Linden, NJ. She started her career in Corporate America and worked for major companies like Schering-Plough Healthcare, Johnson & Johnson and Luxottica. She worked in various leadership roles within these companies. She moved back to Georgia in 2005 to become an entrepreneur and start her own restaurant business alongside her husband, Orville “Scottie” Wray. During the planning stages, her mother Ruby Dennis suffered a ruptured brain aneurysm and she became her caregiver. In 2006, her mother had to have another brain surgery, and this left her with Dementia. Later that year, Sylvia and her husband opened their restaurant “Sands Island Bar & Grill” downtown McDonough and started “The McDonough Jerk Festival.” They wanted to give back to their community, so they decided that they would give back to “The Walk To End Alzheimer’s.” This was the beginning of a new direction for Sylvia.
Support Group, in 2018, I was the producer of the play “Memory Laine” directed by Chris Scott and written by Camille Fitzsimmonds. In 2019, God had more plans for Sylvia to get involved in Clayton County as well. She became the Marketing & Events Coordinator at the Alzheimer’s Services Center and started the Clayton County Alzheimer’s and Dementia Caregivers Support Group. In October 2019, she became the Executive Director at the Alzheimer’s Services Center in Clayton County. In 2020 due to COVID-19, the center temporarily closed its doors. They received a $50,000 grant from Clayton County Hud to feed the citizens of Clayton County. This project began on August 21, 2020, and we were able to feed over 2500 people. They were also a part of the USDA Farmers to Families Food Program in partnership with Melissa Ellis, CEO of Life Beyond Waters and distributed over 65,000 thousand food boxes in the Metro Atlanta area from November, 2020 through May 2021!
T HE Y WANTED TO GIV E BAC K T O TH EIR C OMMUNITY, SO T H EY DE CID ED TH AT TH EY WOULD G IVE BAC K TO “TH E WALK TO E ND ALZH EIM ER’S.” TH IS WAS T HE BEGINNING OF A NEW DIR EC TION F OR SYLV IA.
When I chose the charity “Alzheimer’s, little did I know that I would be so involved in the organization. After being so involved in Peachtree City’s Walk To End Alzheimer’s, God directed me to start a Alzheimer’s and Dementia Caregivers Support Group here in Henry County. That same year, God told me to start a Henry County Walk To End Alzheimer’s. When I approached the Georgia Chapter, they knew there was a need here in Henry County, so they approved for it to be a mini-walk, spinning off of the Greater Atlanta Walk and I became the walk chair. After the growth of the Henry County Walk in only two years, the Georgia Chapter made the Henry County Walk To End Alzheimer’s an official walk in 2018.
In 2018, God has just been downloading to me that I need to do more with Alzheimer’s. So, in addition to being the Event Chair of the Henry County Walk To End Alzheimer’s and Facilitator of the Alzheimer’s & Dementia Caregivers
Sylvia holds a bachelor’s degree in Sales & Marketing and is currently working on her Master’s in Public Administration. She is the CEO & owner of SDW Marketing Firm, CoFounder of the McDonough Jerk Festival, Executive Director, Alzheimer’s Services Center, and the Chapter Leader of the Clayton/DeKalb Women in Business Chapter. She’s on two Board of Directors, Home of the Brave and Living Well Adult Day Care. SDW Marketing Firm has a partnership with Holy Connection TV. She is a loving wife, has 1 daughter, 3 sons and 6 grandchildren. GAME CHANGERS MAGAZINE | 37
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BY BRANDON ABERNATHY oach Jay Moore is a basketball influencer from the south C metro Atlanta area and new Girls Basketball coach for the New Faith Christian Academy Basketball Team. Coach Moore is a product of Lovejoy High School in Hampton, Ga. While at Lovejoy coach Moore was top 5 in steals in the school, All Region point guard and he still holds the school record for assists with 667. Coach Moore has worked with numerous organizations and his network from grassroots to the WNBA is second to none. His aim is to bring back some of his knowledge and resources to the community that gave him his start. he Inaugural Sisterhood 50 Basketball Camp located at T his school NCFA, is a camp where he will be connecting the youth with elite mentors in the basketball space today. Kids will go through drills, 5 on 5 and most importantly Q&A sessions so the ladies can write down the steps to activate their dreams. Some of the mentors include Brittney Griner of the Phoenix Mercury and “Auntie” Chantel Tremitiere. GAME CHANGERS MAGAZINE | 39
GAME CHANGERS MAGAZINE | 40
STOCKBRIDGE’S FIRST BLACK MAYOR:
A
A Leader & Visionary
nthony Ford is a retired U.S. Army full colonel he is also the city of Stockbridge GA’s first Black Mayor. His story is as intricate as it is involved. However being “the first” was not his motivating reason to become Mayor. He’s been involved in some form of politics his entire life from High School and College student government to servicing as interim mayor of Stockbridge before he becoming its elected Mayor. He felt that his father who was a WWII and Korean War veteran inspired him to join the army and serve his country and community. Mayor Ford’s firm belief that helping others is the key to ultimately helping oneself was also instilled in him by his mother. Stockbridge is growing. As it stands right now its either the largest or second largest city in Henry County. The county is continuing to grow. More and more people move to Henry county because of the economic opportunities and the warm weather. As the old saying goes “No one retires and says they are moving up North!” Mayor Ford is acutely aware of this and looks to position the city of Stockbridge to take advantage of this population and economic boom. Recently the city built a 3,400 seat, state of the art amphitheater that has already hosted its premiere event, a concert with Patti Label and Gladys Knight. The Mayor’s next plan is to revitalize the downtown area of Stockbridge to capitalize on the new Amphitheater. “The Amphitheater is a game changer. I like that word game changer and the catalyst for the re-development for the city of Stockbridge itself!” The 2022 season will be a full season of concerts and shows that will take up the entire year with quality entertainment with over 500 parking spaces with no charge, free. All within 150 yard of the venue.
Despite Stockbridge’s City Councils notorious reputation for infighting and inability to work together Mayor Ford was capable of bringing the different personalities together to serve the common good of the people of Stockbridge in particular, Henry County in general. “It can be difficult from time to time. But in a sense trying to have a good positive attitude about the fact that we have to work together for the betterment of the community.” Mayor Ford believes in teamwork and creates a positive atmosphere that fosters a sense of togetherness. Everyone who works for and with him is called a “teammate” a further demonstration to that point. Mayor Ford is a positive man who looks to spread cheer and community in everything he does. During this interview he ended almost every sentence with “bettering the community” The Mayor’s “team” has a vision for the city to grow and thrive in South GA. Despite the concert featuring Gladys Knight and Patti Label the Mayor is adamant about making sure they venue follows CDC guidelines and avoids a “super spreader event” Says the Mayor “It would be more helpful if people got a vaccination but we have to be smart about what we do and how we manage these up coming activities.” This isn’t just a caution from a politician. Mayor Anthony Ford is also the Chair of the Henry County Board of Health. However he says that position is based on Stockbridge being the largest city in Henry County and not any medical qualifications. When it is all said and done the City Of Stockbridge has a remarkable leader. A man who serves God, family, country and community. With leadership like this the city of Stockbridge is sure to grow and thrive who could ask for anything more? GAME CHANGERS MAGAZINE | 41
LET’S TALK
HEALTH & MEDICARE INSURANCE GEL Health Advisors, Agents with a Servant’s Heart, is a group of independent agents working together to bring value and cost savings to all. Even though this is the enrollment season for Medicare and Health Insurance, we work 365 days a year assisting our clients and educating the general public on the value of Health and Life Insurance. You can contact us at anytime to get an answer to your insurance needs.
We specialize in three areas: 1. Medicare 2. Health Insurance 3. Life with Health and Legacy benefits We will be giving you more information next year as we expand our GEL Legacy Group program (GEL-Legacygroup.com)
Medicare We are actively taken applications for Medicare Insurance. Just go to hihello.me/hi/gelhealth and click Medicare, enter your basic information and save. One of our Advisors will call to complete enrollment with you. You can also schedule a oneon-one meeting at this same virtual site. Medicare is for people turning 65, been on disability for 2 years, or have a chronic illness such as ESRD, etc. We go beyond just what available in Medicare to assist our clients save on health cost and qualify for more benefits.
Health
In this season of Pandemic portion, it is even more important that people know the value of Health and Life Insurance. Everybody needs health and life insurance. It is not regulated by the law like car and homeowners’ insurance, but it is just as important.
We are actively taken applications for Health Insurance. Just go to hihello.me/hi/gelhealth and click on Start Health Enrollment here, enter your basic information and save. One of our Advisors will call to complete enrollment with you. You can also schedule a one-on-one meeting at this same virtual site.
We are encouraging everyone to take all precautions to safeguard against this pandemic, just like we did for the measles, polio and other virus that plagued our land.
It is important to have a Health Insurance Program for your family. Just like you plan for vacations, family reunions, college, retirement – Health Coverage Programs are just as important. Remember, your Health Is Your Wealth.
Again, we are excited about our group’s expansion. We can now reach any area of Georgia and surrounding states. First, we have agents located in all areas and secondly, we have educated ourselves to work virtually and in person being safe. Safe for clients and ourselves. GEL Health Advisors have a virtual number that you can reach us at any time. (817) 381-1500 is a number you can call, leave a detailed message or text. One of our Advisors in your area will contact you. In addition, you can scan our code and schedule a meeting, sign up for a plan or just have someone call you.
The Book says, “Beloved I wish above all things that you may prosper and be in health even as your souls prosper.” When it comes to health insurance and the Open Enrollment season, it does not matter if you are low income, high income or middle income. Preexisting conditions or healthy, it does not matter. The Marketplace plans are guaranteed issued. This year, we will also have plans for small groups and for individual who think the Marketplace is not for them. Our goal is to get you or keep you as healthy as possible. GAME CHANGERS MAGAZINE | 43
GAME CHANGERS MAGAZINE | 44
Plans include doctors, hospital, labs and more. Some plans also include dental, vision, gym memberships, etc. By working with GEL Health Advisors, we can help you maximize your benefits.
In 2022, we will be introducing our concepts through Workshops, Seminars and Speaking Engagements.
Many say, “I can’t afford” or I don’t need. Truth is almost everyone can afford it, and everyone needs it. Accidents happens, COVID19 is happening and just the need to stay healthy is a must.
But for now, we believe that Life insurance is just that Insurance for the living, not the dead. That’s why our Life Insurance have unique benefits for living including high cash values, chronic illness and other benefits that we will discuss at our next issue.
Life with Health and Legacy Benefits
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At GEL, we believe in a complete ‘Plan of Action’. In 2022, I will be introducing our GEL Legacy Group Program and my first published book, “Is Your House In Order.” We believe that everyone should have Now Income, Tax-free Retirement Income and Legacy Income.” We also believe that our fuel for Success is GAS
GELHealthAdvisors.com hihello.me/hi/gelhealth
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Prostate Cancer Among Most Common Male Cancer BY DOMINIQUE HUFF
Did you know that one in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime? Prostate cancer is more likely to develop in older men and non-Hispanic black men. About six cases in 10 are diagnosed in men who are 65 years old or older. The Zero Cancer initiative reports new research shows that prostate cancer continues to be one of the most prevalent cancers among men nationwide, with an alarming 30 percent rise in new cases anticipated in 2021 and a 2.4 percent increase in deaths. More than 25 percent of the men who pass from cancer will be prostate cancer patients. “Men didn’t need another reason to avoid the doctor in 2020, but unfortunately, COVID-19 gave them one. The lack of access to screening has real and devastating consequences,” Jamie Bearse, ZERO CEO,
and President. “The 30 percent increase in new cases is likely, in part, due to men deferring from annual checkups because of the pandemic. We expect 2022 figures will be even higher and more troubling.” According to research from the University of Washington School of Medicine, black men are urged to start testing at the age of 45 (35 based on American Cancer Society research). The university notes that black men in the U.S. were about 60 to 80 percent more likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer and twice as likely to die from prostate cancer compared to other men of other races in the U.S. “The study provides us evidence to support a personalized screening recommendation for black men, who are more likely to be diagnosed at younger ages and with more aggressive disease,” Dr. Yaw Nyame, a urologic oncologist at the University of Washington School of Medicine, said. “We found that screening at age 45 and testing every year until age 70 decreased the number of deaths from prostate cancer compared to the current screening practices without increasing the number of over-detected prostate cancer cases.” GAME CHANGERS MAGAZINE | 45
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The American Cancer Society found several risk factors when it comes to a man’s risk of getting prostate cancer:
Age:
Prostate cancer is rare in men younger than 40, but the chance of having prostate cancer rises rapidly after age 50.
Race/Ethnicity: Prostate cancer develops in
black men and Caribbean men of African ancestry than men of other races. And when it does develop in these men, they tend to be younger.
Geography: Prostate cancer is most common
in North America, Northwestern Europe, Australia, and the Caribbean islands. It is less common in Asia, Africa, Central America, and South America.
Family History:
Many men are catching it without a prior family history of the disease. At the same time, it should be noted that a man has relatives close in lineages, such as a father, brother, and uncle. At that point, those men need to start early for screening and testing.
Other factors that are of concern but the American Cancer Society says there is research that indicates but more studying needs to be done: Diet: Men who consume heavy dairy products have a slightly higher risk of getting prostate cancer.
Obesity: Obese men tend to have a higher risk of developing faster-growing and aggressive forms of prostate cancer.
Chemical Exposure: Men who work around
heavy chemicals such as in the military or fire department have an elevated risk of contracting the disease, but ACS states there are not enough data to fully raise an alarm
Vasectomy: There is great debate over such, and
while some men who had the operation were found to have such, it was about the same in men who didn’t have the procedure, but scientists are divided on this being a risk factor.
The prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test is a simple blood test. Early detection saves lives, but unfortunately, decades of mixed messaging about the PSA test have left both doctors and men confused about the importance of testing. As a result, fewer men are taking the initiative regarding their prostate health, directly contributing to more deaths from prostate cancer year over year. “These numbers are very concerning and do require a careful look. Despite many new treatments and diagnostics for prostate cancer that are improving the lives of men with the disease, we continue to face a potential rising incidence,” Dr. Charles Ryan, a member of ZERO’s Medical Advisory Board and an oncologist and professor at the University of Minnesota said. “This may be due to population growth, the aging population, and potentially due to decreases in screening over the past decade. Continued research on these questions of biology, policy, and society is critical now and moving forward.” ZERO is combating the rising statistics by making prostate cancer screenings (including PSA tests) affordable and accessible. The “ZERO Cost to Prostate Cancer Screening” initiative is a nationwide effort to pass legislation in each state that makes prostate cancer screenings akin to other cancer screenings that are devoid of cost (ovarian, breast, etc.) As a result of this initiative, Maryland and New York became the first two states to pass critical legislation to remove prostate cancer screening cost-sharing for men. Additionally, ZERO works to educate and provide support resources among high-risk communities like Veterans, who have a risk of prostate cancer that’s about double that of civilians.
“
Despite many new treatments and diagnostics for prostate cancer that are improving the lives of men with the disease, we continue to face a potential rising incidence. — Dr. Charles Ryan
