june 2012
Wellness For Life
St. Joseph’s Home Health A Breakthrough in Psychiatric Nursing pg. 14
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Wellness For Life
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To advertise, contact Mary at 432–550–7339 Publisher Mary Hunt, Ha! Publishing Editor Evangeline Ehl Publication Manager Mary Hunt Sales Mary Hunt Writers Imelda Allen; Kim Clinkenbeard, CPT, ENS; Joy Harriman; Wendy Hilliard; Ben McCampbell; Keliree Mitchell; Monique L. Schaal, M.S. Photography Imelda Allen, Mark Swindler Design Clay Adams, Sarah Fleck, Chantel Miller
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4 Focus on Men’s Health
23 Get Fit With Kim: Never Say Never— But Always Say Always
7 Make Room for Reading 10 A Moving Ministry
24 Woof Woof! The Dog Blog by Mindy
12 It’s Summer at the Y 14 St. Joseph’s Home Health: A Breakthrough in Psychiatric Nursing 17 Thermoregulation: The Science of Staying Cool
27 Retail Therapy: Healthy Summer Hair 28 Recipe: Asian Shrimp and Rice Bowl with Orange Sesame Sauce
ON THE COVER Delma H. Chavez, along with her husband Luis, bring the best of home healthcare to the Permian Basin through St. Joseph’s Home Health, Inc. Now they are offering psychiatric nursing care as part of their services to better serve patients and their families.
READ MORE ON PAGE 14 an apple a day june 2012
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s women continue to outlive men, the education and awareness of men’s health issues are becoming increasingly important. The Men’s Health Network, whose goal is to improve the health, longevity, and quality of life for men, has designated June as the month to bring awareness to important men’s health issues. In partnership with sponsors and members of the medical field, the highlight of the cause is “Men’s Health Week”, which occurs the week leading up to and including Father’s Day. During this week, health fairs, screenings, public media campaigns, and other educational programs and activities are held to promote men’s health and encourage health screenings to prevent diseases among boys and men. Since its inception by Congress in 1994, Men’s Health Week has grown in popularity and is now recognized internationally, as it continues to make an impact on the awareness efforts for men’s health.
FOCUS ON
MEN’S
HEALTH by Imelda Allen
4 june 2012 an apple a day
The statistics regarding the decline in men’s health are astounding. Today, women are living an average of five years longer than men, compared to the 1920s when women outlived men by only a year. In fact, men surpass women among the leading causes of death including heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and general injuries, among others. Today, 80% of older persons living alone are women and half of those who are widowed are now living in poverty. Why the growing rate of mortality in men? Men are living shorter lives than women due to an increasing rate of disease due to illness, death due to illness, and other factors which contribute to a higher risk in men’s health, such as: • A large percentage of men have no healthcare coverage • Men have half as many preventative physician visits as women • Men are employed in the most dangerous occupations • Research of male-specific diseases is under-funded • Society discourages healthy male behavior • Men lead generally less healthy lifestyles and engage in riskier behavior than women
The proof of this silent health crisis is in the staggering numbers. Not only do men outnumber women in all of the major illness categories, but men are at a greater risk in nearly every age group. This risk will continue Not only do men outnumber growing if campaigns women in all of the major targeted at men’s illness categories, but men health, such as Men’s are at a greater risk in Health Week, do not generate the amount nearly every age group. of action needed to get men to take an active role in their personal health and help reverse this health crisis. For most men, the idea of going to see a physician for preventative reasons probably sounds a little narcissistic or shows a sign of weakness. As most women know, it’s hard enough to get them to see a doctor even when they are sick. This is the major hurdle the Men’s Health Network is working to overcome with programs such as Men’s Health Week. The simplest, most cost-effective way to stop the growing statistics of men’s declining health is through regular health screenings performed by a doctor at least once a year. That one visit could help them avoid subsequent visits as a result of something that could have been detected early on through a routine health screening. Most women are well-versed on the importance of yearly health check-ups from the time they hit puberty, generally for reproductive purposes and early detection of cancer and other illness. However, the importance of addressing health check-ups for men has not been historically commonplace in our society. So it’s no surprise that according to published statistics, women are 100% more likely to visit a doctor for preventative health care than men. Health check-ups are vital because they offer similar advantages to both sexes for longer life benefits. Below is a men’s health checklist which outlines the type of checkups and screenings a doctor will perform during a regular visit. The actual tests will depend on the age of the patient at the time of the visit. However, every item on the list is advised as part of a yearly checkup for those 50 and older.
MEN’S HEALTH CHECKLIST • Physical exam: Review overall health status, perform a thorough physical exam, and discuss health related topics. • Blood pressure: High blood pressure (hypertension) has no symptoms, but can cause permanent damage to body organs. • TB skin test: Should be done on occasion of exposure or suggestive symptoms at direction of physician. Some occupations may require more frequent testing for public health indications. • Blood tests and urinalysis: Screens for various illnesses and diseases (such as cholesterol, diabetes, kidney or thyroid dysfunction) before symptoms occur. • EKG: Electrocardiogram screens for heart abnormalities. • Tetanus booster: Prevents lockjaw. • Rectal exam: Screens for hemorrhoids, lower rectal problems, and colon and prostate cancer. • PSA blood test: Prostate specific antigen (PSA) is produced by the prostate. Levels rise when there is an abnormality such as an infection, enlargement, or cancer. Testing should be done in collaboration with your physician. If you are male, you can bring increased awareness to the men’s health epidemic and avoid becoming another statistic by scheduling a health screening with your physician. As a woman, you are encouraged to bring awareness in celebration of the men in your life by urging them to get a clean bill of health from their physician, or better yet, by scheduling a health screening for them each year during June Men’s Health Month—it’s a Father’s Day gift that could save their life. Preventative health screenings are essential in taking a proactive role to maintain your health, but they are even more effective as part of an overall healthy lifestyle consisting of a proper diet and daily activity. The Men’s Health Network recently Continued on page 19
an apple a day june 2012
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Make Room for Reading by Wendy Hilliard “The more you read the more things you will know. The more that you learn the more places you’ll go.” Dr. Seuss
F
or decades, young readers understood that opening a Theodore Geisel, aka Dr. Seuss, book meant opening a door to a wacky, whimsical world. Written with basic vocabulary words and a few made-up words, Dr. Seuss’ books captivated new readers. In fact, it was because of Theodore Geisel’s colorful use of words, characters, and imagery that many educators have credited him with increasing literacy rates in young children. Thinking outside of the box to create a passion for reading is also the goal of Odessa community leaders. This desire to improve literacy rates in Odessa has initiated a unique partnership among the Odessa Junior League, the Odessa Retired Teachers Association, and the Odessa Family Y. The Junior League of Odessa is a volunteer group dedicated to improving the community. Already partnering with ECISD, the West Texas Food Bank, and the Education Foundation, the women’s organization provides food to needy school children. Every Friday, sacks filled with nutritious food are distributed to at-risk children. A child with a full belly is better able to concentrate and learn. The foundation of learning is reading. After discovering troubling literacy rates in Ector County, the Odessa Junior League undertook literacy as one of their major projects. Junior League member Candy Wright explained. “Junior League funds three different programs. A literacy program was chosen because of the powerful impact it could have on the community. We knew this was important. It took a lot of research. We started this three years ago,” Wright said.
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commitments to the organization. As Sustainer, McCown gets to choose which project committees to supervise. She’s also a retired reading recovery teacher.
The process started when Junior League members attended a national conference to begin the needed research. The literacy committee then partnered with Literacy Powerline. They promote community involvement to eliminate illiteracy. “In January 2011, Literacy Powerline conducted a literacy needs assessment for Ector County. Sixty community leaders were invited to discuss how we could strengthen the foundation of literacy providers” Wright said. The Ector County literacy assessment revealed stunning data. “One in three adults in Ector County lack basic literacy skills. One in three kids will drop out of high school, only one in three goes to preschool,“ said Wright. Having completed the research and secured support from community leaders, it was time to design a strategy. “We have three main goals for the next year. We want to coordinate all efforts in the community to make the biggest impact. We want to develop a literacy coalition for funding and education, and we want to partner with the community for reading rooms,” Wright said. On a Thursday morning in April, an energetic Joan McCown surveys a cozy room filled with hundreds of books. Captivating framed posters encouraging reading line the walls. Bright red, green, and blue bean bag chairs face a comfortable-looking rocking chair. McCown is an Odessa Junior League Sustainer for the literacy program committee. “I get to have all the fun,” she laughed. A Junior League Sustainer is a member who has served seven years, and has fulfilled her 8 june 2012 an apple a day
McCown makes a mental list of a few needed items to complete the room. It resembles a very well-furnished library. What makes this exceptional is where the reading room is located. The Odessa Junior League’s first reading room found a home at the Odessa Central Family Y. Being the largest childcare provider in Odessa and already providing structured learning, the Y was an ideal partner. In 2011, then Y Board President James Rush attended a few of the Odessa Junior League of Literacy Project meetings. Rush spoke of the partnership opportunity to Odessa Family Y CEO Mitch Gerig. With a background in education himself, Gerig contacted McCown. The Y executive board listened to McCown’s compelling presentation explaining the literacy research findings as well as The Junior League’s plan of action. The board agreed that the Y would provide the room and the Junior League would transform it into a library. Next, McCown needed volunteers. She sought the aid of the Odessa Retired Teachers Association. These experienced educators would not only read to the children, but could also help them develop reading skills and proper library etiquette. Monday through Friday, a rotating schedule allows the almost 500 children from all three centers, including night care, to use the reading room. Odessa Y childcare teachers assist the reading volunteers with groups of 15–20 children at a time. “Sometimes we expect too much from students. I’ve seen the frustration first hand,” said reading room volunteer Betty Jo Gerig, mother of Odessa Family Y CEO Mitch Gerig. “Each child develops differently at different rates. We want the kids to have fun. Yes, they have to read for information, but they should enjoy reading and appreciate it,” Mrs. Gerig said.
With McCown’s list complete, reading volunteers begin to tour the petite library and find their schedules. Mother Gerig and son smile, share a quick hug, and look around the welcoming room. “I believe this partnership is a great opportunity to be able to make a difference in the lives of children in our community. Reading is the most important skill a child must learn to succeed in school and I believe that this project will have an impact on developing these skills in children in our community,” Y CEO Gerig said.
The Odessa Junior League of Odessa Literacy Project Committee has the furnishings for a second reading room and has plans for many more. “Friends of the Ector County Library donated two grocery carts of book they can’t use. The books are in good shape, they just don’t have a need for them,” McCown said. If interested in volunteering or making donations, please contact the Junior League of Odessa Literacy Project at 432–332–0095. For information on the Odessa Family Y call 432–362–4301.
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a moving ministry by Ben McCampbell
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icture yourself in this situation—you’re a senior citizen, and you and your spouse have realized that the time has come to downsize from the house you’ve lived in for the last 40 years. Your children live in Boston or Seattle or Houston; it’s difficult, with their families and careers, for them to travel back to West Texas to help out. Now add some other complications to the scenario. Perhaps your spouse is in poor health, unable to do the hard work that is part of moving. Or your spouse has developed Alzheimer’s disease or some other debilitating condition which requires almost constant care. Or worse yet, your spouse has recently passed away, and you’re alone in a big house, knowing the time has come to move to a smaller place but
Each situation is different, and she can tailor her plan to effectively accomplish what needs to be done.
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not knowing where to start. And that smaller place where you’re planning to move may be in another state. Sounds almost overwhelming, right? Now there’s help here in the Permian Basin and nearby communities for senior citizens who find themselves at this point in their life. It’s called Senior Move, and it is the passion of its founder, Paula Merrill. She is a certified Senior Move Manager (SMM), and with her knowledge and skills, Paula and Senior Move can help seniors with everything they will encounter in a downsizing/ moving situation. Let’s look at many of the ways that Mrs. Merrill and Senior Move will help. First, Paula gets together with the person(s) who is moving to find out what their needs are. Each situation is different, and she can tailor her plan to effectively accomplish what needs to be done. A note here—the person who is moving would, in
most cases, be referred to as the “client,” but Paula calls them her “new friend.” And it’s not just a cute name. She gets to know them very well, and she stays in touch with those whom she has helped, often visiting them frequently in their new home. If the move is going to be to a local retirement community, Paula has already done her homework; she can consider her new friend’s personality and lifestyle in recommending a retirement community for a good “fit.” She also has floor plans of all the local facilities, including dimensions. This allows her to help determine which of the friend’s furnishings can go where in the new dwelling, planning it before the move. If Paula’s new friend is moving out of town, Paula can contact another SMM (affiliated with the National Association of Senior Move Managers) in the new locale; they work together to ensure that the move is smooth. One of the most daunting tasks for the senior mover is sorting through a lifetime of possessions, deciding which to keep, which to give to relatives and friends, and which to let go. Paula pays particular attention to detail at this stage, making note of favorite items, realizing that not all can accompany her new friend to the new residence. Mrs. Merrill sometimes photographs the favorite possessions which aren’t making the move and compiles a memory album of the photos, which allows the new resident to relive memories and share them with new friends. Also included in the album can be photos of their former home, yard, car, etc. There are times when family heirlooms are found unexpectedly—one example from our conversation stands out. The family never knew about a piece of jewelry that their father had sent their mother while he was overseas during World War II; Paula found it hidden away in the small compartment of a purse, still wrapped in tissue. The elderly woman
Paula tries to care for them as she would want her grandmother cared for. In this way, Mrs. Merrill honors her grandmother as she helps people make this difficult life transition.
had thought it was long lost and was overjoyed at its finding. Many of the items not going to the new residence will be shipped to relatives or friends who live elsewhere. Some items may be put in storage. And many families decide that, after all the decisions have Paula Merrill been made about what pieces go to whom, the remaining items from the household can be released to others who might enjoy having them, either through donation, an estate sale, garage sale, or auction. This can be an emotional time, but it can also generate some welcome cash for the move. Senior Move can include this entire process as part of its work. When the actual move happens, Mrs. Merrill can call on one of the moving companies that she works with for her new friends (one even gives discounts for moves to certain retirement communities). She can supervise the packing and moving process, which is a huge load off of Paula’s new friend. Mrs. Merrill sometimes takes photos of the current living space in order to arrange the new residence the same way. Then she helps her new friend move in. Senior Move can help with the utilities transfer and the change of address process, among other similar items to change. And if the original residence is going to be sold, she can arrange for cleaning, yard work, and waste removal. Paula can also contact one of her preferred Realtors who have experience representing senior real estate sellers and get the house listed for sale, plus she can help with “staging” the house to prepare it for showing to prospective buyers. Many owners of small businesses feel like they provide valuable services in addition to being in Continued on page 19
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by Wendy Hilliard
study from the non-profit research and development corporation RAND has proven what parents have long suspected—students can lose as much as a whole month of learning during summer vacation. Keeping young brains and bodies active during the summer break is essential to keep kids healthy and successful. The Odessa Family Y offers a variety of educational, fun day and sports camps to keep kids moving and learning throughout the summer months. With full- and half-day camp options available, childcare director Chere Ramirez has planned a fun-filled curriculum designed to keep kids fit and entertained. Reading will also be an important aspect of the summer program. “Children need to keep their minds and cognitive skills energized during the summer months. That is why we feel at the Y the reading room is so imperative for our kids. I do believe kids need a break and summer is for fun, however our goal is to keep our children’s brains stimulated and on track with their educational and reading skills,” Ramirez said.
Keeping young brains and bodies active during the summer break is essential to keep kids healthy and successful.
But it won’t be just all work and no play. Ramirez has many exciting adventures planned to keep day campers amused. “We take lots of field trips. We’ll go to the Petroleum Museum and the Ellen Noel Art Museum. We also go to the movies and go bowling. This year we’re trying to bring in a music teacher to work with the children,” Ramirez said.
In the Y’s quest to encourage healthy living, campers will receive some nutritional education. “We’re going to do activities like make healthy smoothies. We’re also going to try to go to Papa John’s Pizza and make our own little pizzas,” the Y childcare director said. In addition to park excursions and arts and crafts, younger children will be treated to a magic show. Other activities include Bible study, swimming, and the children’s Zumba class called ZumbAtomic. Enrollment is open now. The full-day summer program starts at 6:30 am and lasts until 6 pm and runs from June through August. The cost is $400 per child per month, which includes breakfast, lunch, and snacks. Full day too much? Then try Camp Y. This half-day camp runs 1 pm to 5 pm, Monday through Friday. Kids will take part in arts and crafts, swimming, and field trips to a couple of museums and a water park. Sports coordinator B.J. Mathis explained that Camp Y will have an emphasis on teamwork. Camp participants will not only stay active but will learn the importance of group effort.
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“Together everyone achieves more,” said Mathis. Two sessions are available. The first one runs June 4—July 6 and the second, July 9—August 10. Cost is $325 per session for members, $350 for nonmembers. Those wanting an international experience can score big with the Challenger Sports British soccer camp. This sports camp is scheduled June 11 through the 15 at the Mike Neely Park. This will be the second year the Odessa Family Y has partnered with the popular United Kingdom organization. These professional league players travel to the United States to teach much more than just soccer. “In this camp, kids will develop motor skills, speed and agility, team leadership, and social skills. Playing sports is a discipline. These core values go home with the kids. Parents will benefit from this character building program,” said Y Sports director Craig Cauble. This camp offers a variety of times and age appropriate curriculums. First Kicks is available for kids as young as three to four, five- to six-year-olds can participate in a Mini Soccer camp that lasts an hour-and-a-half. A half-day camp is available for older kids ages seven to 15. “The Odessa Family Y camps can keep kids off the streets, off the couch, away from the TV, engaged and active,” Cauble said. For more information on times, prices and availability on this camp or other Y summer camps, call the Odessa Family Y at 432–362–4301.
for youth development for healthy living for social responsibility
there’s no better time to join the odessa family y
The Odessa Family Y offers the latest in technology and equipment, well-equipped facilities, nursery care for members, certified instructors and personal trainers, and dozens of exciting classes to fit anyone’s schedule…among many other amenities! And we have no initiation fees, no hidden fees, and no contracts. Come see why the Odessa Family Y is the #1 choice for your health and wellness.
for more information call 432–362–4301 odessaymca.org our new extended fitness hours Mon–Thurs, 5 am - Midnight • Fri, 5 am - 10 pm Sat, 7 am - 7 pm • Sun, 1 pm - 7 pm
Mindy Chris
Gabriel
St. Joseph’s Home Health A Breakthrough in Psychiatric Nursing by Imelda Allen
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visits, the depression and mental anxiety may ince its inception, St. Joseph’s Home resume shortly after and it’s back to square one in Health, Inc. was destined to be a different terms of helping them with their progress. Because kind of company, especially in the eyes this type of care requires a tremendous amount of of founder Delma H. Chavez. Delma is empathy and diligence, St. Joseph’s has hired three not your typical CEO. Her warm smile and natural certified psychiatric nurses who have received kindness is the driving force behind St. Joseph’s special training in psychological therapy and care mission to honor the value of life by providing administration. The company began offering the the best home health care to those in need. Her service in May, but it is already treating patients ultimate goal is to help patients continue to lead who have been clinically diagnosed with mental quality lives in the midst of the challenges they health issues. St. Joseph’s has also partnered with encounter. As a breast cancer survivor, Delma Allegiance Specialty Hospital of the Permian Basin envisioned a company that would serve with to offer psychiatric care to patients who require atrelentless compassion, because she understands home care. that for someone who is going through a difficult time, true compassion often means more than any In addition to running her business, Delma conmedicine. After 8 years in service, Delma and her tinues her philanthropic journey as a community staff at St. Joseph’s Home Health continue to uphold advocate of rights for home health care recipients. this promise to their patients with the addition of Two years ago, Delma Psychiatric Nursing “We saw a need in our patients who often spearheaded the first Care as part of their end up battling depression and other mental annual Elder Abuse, program services. issues due to the effects of their fragile state Neglect, and Exploitaor the overwhelming feeling of having to tion Conference of the Bringing psychiatric handle everyday responsibilities while they’re Permian Basin with the care to her patients receiving treatment.” aid of her staff, volunis something Delma and her staff have been developing for almost two years. Psychiatric Nursing is defined as the specialty of nursing that cares for people of all ages with mental illness or distress such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, psychosis, depression, or dementia. “We saw a need in our patients who often end up battling depression and other mental issues due to the effects of their fragile state or the overwhelming feeling of having to handle everyday responsibilities while they’re receiving treatment,” explains Delma, “Children, bills, personal problems…those don’t take a back seat when you’re sick.” She goes on to say that while the patients do well during routine
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teers, and community supporters including the Adult Protective Services organization. The event brings together local care administrators and guest speakers to address issues affecting elder care and raise awareness to stop and prevent elder abuse. The conference coincides with the state-recognized Elder Abuse Prevention Month in May and the National Elder Abuse Awareness Day, June 15. The efforts of the group have been proclaimed by both Odessa Mayor Larry Melton and Midland Mayor Wes Perry. Plans for this year’s conference are well underway as the 2nd Annual Elder Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation Conference is scheduled for June 14th in Midland. If
you would like more information about this year’s conference, contact Laura Clark with St. Joseph’s Home Health. St. Joseph’s Home Health Care, Inc. operates from the company’s headquarters in the Smith Building at Claydesta Park in Midland. Together with the help of her husband, Luis, Delma oversees the company’s day-to-day operations and staff consisting of licensed and registered nurses and supporting medical and administrative staffs. It’s not an easy job, but Delma has never been one to take the easy road. She is truly a self-made businesswoman who is guided by her faith. Her résumé is a lofty one which exemplifies a woman who believes in following her passions. In addition to her role of entrepreneur, she is also a licensed social worker and continues to make home visits to patients. But her proudest accomplishment is being a mother to her two grown sons, Jesus and Jerome Chavez. So who can benefit from home health care? The biggest misconception people have about home health care is that it is reserved for terminally ill
patients who require extensive round-the-clock care which their families aren’t always able to provide. While this is true, that is actually only a small percentage of the patients the home health industry serves. Home health care is administered to a variety of people, regardless of age, who require care beyond what a hospital or doctor can provide. Home health providers also serve patients who have been recently discharged from the hospital and need at-home care to recover, those with chronic conditions (such as diabetes or kidney and liver disease), people with limited mobility who require help with everyday activities, families of patients who seek periodic relief from managing the care of loved ones with special needs, and young patients who are able to participate in normal surroundings with the help of special equipment. Home health care is just that, serving the health care needs of those who are mostly restricted to their homes. St. Joseph’s Home Health, Inc. strives to provide excellent home care to the community, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. St. Joseph’s service programs Continued on page 20 an apple a day june 2012 15
Stroke Care of
the Highest Degree
MCH’s Stroke Program is proud to announce that it has earned the 2012 Stroke Gold Plus Performance Achievement Award with Target: Stroke Honor Roll from the American Heart Association and the American Stroke Association, Get With The Guidelines program. This honor is only given to stroke programs that accomplish 24 consecutive months of adherence to quality and performance standards. MCH also has the only Joint Commission certified Primary Stroke Center, and Texas Designated Level II Stroke Center in Odessa. We’re honored to receive these awards for many reasons, but most importantly because they exemplify our dedication to you… the patient.
The American Heart Association and the American Stroke Association recognize this hospital for achieving 85% of higher adherence to all the Get With The Guidelines® Stroke Performance Achievement indicators for consecutive 12 month intervals and 75% or higher compliance with 6 to 10 Get With The Guidelines Stroke Quality Measures to improve quality of patient care and outcomes in addition to achieving IV rt-PA door-to-needle times ≤60 minutes in 50% or more of applicable acute ischemic stroke patients (minimum of 6) during one calendar quarter.
Think FAST! Identifying a stroke can be difficult because it doesn’t present many identifiable symptoms. But you can learn to recognize if someone is having a stroke… just think FAST! Facial weakness - Can the person smile? Has their mouth or eye drooped? Arm weakness - Can the person raise both arms? Speech problems - Can the person speak clearly and understand what you say? Time to call 911 - Brain damage can occur in minutes, so you need to act fast and call 911 right away.
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A
by Monique L. Schaal, M.S.
s we are approaching summertime, more people are being active outdoors. This can create a large health hazard if appropriate precautions aren’t followed, but it also provides an opportunity to change up your exercise and activity routines. Before you lace up your shoes and take a run in the sun, there are some important facts that may change the way you approach exercising outside.
due to loss of plasma volume, blood is directed away from the kidneys and towards the skin for cooling, and the kidneys begin to increase water and sodium reabsorption. The Center for Disease Control has listed cardiovascular disease as the leading cause of death in both males and females. As you can imagine, when the heart is already vulnerable, adding extra stress by having a lower plasma volume can create a host of issues, including a myocardial infarction (known as a heart attack).
Now you may be asking yourself, what on earth is thermoregulation? Simply stated, thermoregulation relates to the way that your body regulates core temperature. There are multiple ways that the body can dissipate excess heat, but most body heat is lost through evaporation. When the temperature around the body (also known as ambient temperature) is hot, there isn’t a large gradient that favors the body to lose heat. As we begin to sweat heavily, the fluid we lose typically comes from blood plasma, which is comprised of mostly water and contains proteins and sugars. As the plasma is depleted, the blood becomes thicker. This increase in blood viscosity requires more effort of the heart (in speed and strength of contraction) in order to continue physical activity or exercise. The increase in sweating allows the body to cool while the moisture is being evaporated.
Every year we hear reports of children, athletes, and older adults who have suffered a heat stroke. Drinking adequate amounts of water and staying out of the heat can save your life, because heat illness is preventable! The combination of dehydration and increased ambient temperature can be deadly. Research has repeatedly demonstrated a decrease in physical performance with dehydration. At high exercise intensities there is a competition for blood flow between the working skeletal muscle and the skin to be used for cooling. As exercise intensity increases, the working skeletal muscle will always win the competition and therefore blood flow will be redirected from the skin to the skeletal muscle. The ability of the body to provide adequate blood flow to the skeletal muscle allows the body to maintain blood pressure (which is a primary priority during rest and exercise alike). When the skin loses blood flow to the skeletal muscle, the ability to dissipate heat is compromised, which leads to a higher risk for developing a heat injury. Heat injury has many factors including humidity, ambient temperature, clothing choices, fitness level, hydration status, metabolic rate, wind, and other factors. There are
Typically, fatigue is associated with increased ambient temperature because the body is working so hard to provide energy for multiple cooling mechanisms. The blood in the digestive organs is redirected towards the skin because there is a better gradient for cooling. This occurs very quickly in response to added heat stress. As blood concentration increases
Continued on page 21 an apple a day june 2012 17
Continued from page 5 published “Real Men—Your Healthy Living Game Plan,” a pamphlet which challenges men to take control of their health by exercising, eating right, and visiting their doctor regularly. The guide includes healthy tips which men can incorporate into their daily lives to promote a healthier lifestyle, aka the “Game Plan.” You can download a copy at: http://www.menshealthnetwork.org/library/ Nutrition.pdf. To learn more about June Men’s Health Month, or to join the cause, visit the Men’s Health Network sponsored site at www.menshealthmonth.org. Don’t forget to schedule a health screening this month!
If you are male, you can bring increased awareness to the men’s health epidemic and avoid becoming another statistic by scheduling a health screening with your physician.
Continued from page 11 business to make a profit. Paula Merrill feels that way also, but her passion goes beyond that—Senior Move is a ministry for her. She feels that the Lord led her to this work. She remembers the difficulty her grandmother experienced when faced with this same situation, and she told me that she “sees” her grandmother in each of her new friends. Paula tries to care for them as she would want her grandmother cared for. In this way, Mrs. Merrill honors her grandmother as she helps people make this difficult life transition.
different areas of the country, Senior Move fills a growing need. Most business owners put their time and energy into their business; Paula Merrill also puts her heart into hers—Senior Move. The website is www.senior-move.com, and you can reach her at 432–349–3263 or paula@senior-move.com. Your parents will be glad you did.
With the U.S. population aged 65 and over increasing dramatically as Baby Boomers retire, and with more families having members living in an apple a day june 2012 19
Continued from page 15 are designed to provide preventative, acute and sub-acute, rehabilitation, and long-term care to home-based patients. The services provided by St. Joseph’s are extensive and continue to grow with the addition of new care options as the demand for these services increases. In addition to the recently introduced psychiatric nursing care, St. Jospeh’s services include skilled nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, medical social work, private sitter services, primary home health care and LifeStation alert. Most of the staff is bilingual which makes them better able to serve the needs of a large percentage of their clients by creating an ease of communication regarding medical terminology and care instructions for the patients. St. Joseph’s Home Health Care, Inc. serves the needs of West Texas residents throughout Andrews, Crane, Ector, Glasscock, Howard, Midland, Pecos, Reagan, Scurry, Terrell, Upton, Wall, and Winkler counties. Together with her growing staff and her husband, Delma promises to continue her tireless efforts to provide quality home health care to the community at St. Joseph’s Home Health, Inc.
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Meet the Newest Nurses at St. Joseph’s Michelle S. Oliver, RN (Left) Michelle comes to St. Joseph’s Home Health, Inc. from BCA Permian Basin where she was named “Employee of the Year” in 2011. She has over 7 years experience in psychiatric nursing and is a Medicare Certified Psychiatric Nurse. Michelle is a member of Phi Theta Kappa Society of Midland College and has volunteered at Midland Soup Kitchen, Meals on Wheels, and Casa de Amigos Literacy Program. Her hobbies are reading, art, and music. When asked how she felt about the in-home Psychiatric Nurse Program at St. Joseph’s, Michelle said, “I feel extremely fortunate to be part of such an innovative company that is cognizant of a specialized need in our healthcare community.” Loretta Walters, RN (Center) Loretta is a Medicare Certified Psychiatric Nurse and has made geriatric and adult psychiatric nursing her specialty. She spent 8 years at MHMR. She has extensive experience as a Home Health Nurse and providing in-patient care for geriatric and adult psychiatric patients at BCA and Allegiance. Loretta says she is, “honored to work for St. Joseph’s Home Health due to the high quality of care given to the patients and is excited to be a part of the psychiatric nursing team.” Michelle Adams, RN (Right) Michelle knew when she was in nursing school that she wanted to specialize in psychiatric nursing; she calls it her passion. She is a Medicare Certified Psychiatric Nurse and provides quality patient care with a focus on mental illness, patient safety measures, and basic activities of daily living. She has been called “the most caring nurse” by her co-workers and patients. Regarding the in-home Psychiatric Nursing Program at St. Joseph’s, Michelle said, “This is something that has been needed in this community. The program will improve the lives of so many people. Not only for the patients but the people that love them.”
Continued from page 17 stages of heat injury: heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS There are multiple phases of dehydration and heat stress. Dehydration is often hard to recognize because the symptoms can be very mild. Urine color is frequently used to detect dehydration outside of a lab, but urine color can be easily altered with food, medication, or vitamins. Thirst is not the best indicator of hydration status, since thirst is often a late stage indicator of dehydration. For proper hydration, it is a good rule of thumb to take your body weight and divide it in half to get the amount of water you should consume daily, in ounces. For example a 160 lb. person should consume a minimum of 80 ounces per day of water. HEAT CRAMPS Heat cramps are often associated with cramping in the back side of the leg, such as the hamstrings or calves, and also the abdomen. Heat cramps typically feel like a muscle spasm and can be very painful. If you are experiencing heat cramps, it is important to rest, rehydrate, and do some mild stretching to help alleviate the pain. HEAT EXHAUSTION Heat exhaustion is typically associated with multiple symptoms, including an increase in heart rate, heavy sweating, fainting, nausea, headaches, confusion, and others. During heat exhaustion the body is struggling to maintain homeostasis and therefore can exhibit many abnormal reactions. Remove any restrictive clothing, rest, rehydrate, and apply cold to the body through ice packs or cold showers. HEAT STROKE Heat stroke is a medical emergency. Heat stroke can be fatal and is associated with very high body temperature (which can be as high as 104° F), disorientation, absence of sweating, difficulty communicating or breathing, seizures, a coma, and a variety of symptoms. It is vital to seek medical assistance immediately if you believe someone is
experiencing symptoms of a heat stroke. Often the line between heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke is not clearly separated. Many symptoms can be experienced in all stages of heat illness, or an individual may not experience typical symptoms in any stage of heat illness. RECOMMENDATIONS • Allow frequent periods of rest and hydration during activity outdoors and indoors. Fluid replacement is essential to preventing heat injury. • Make sure you are well hydrated before, during, and after exercise. During exercise, consume 8 ounces of water every 20 minutes. If exercising more than 60 minutes, consider including electrolytes through a sports-drink. • Monitor the color of your urine. The darker your urine, the less hydrated you are and the greater your risk for heat injury • Weigh yourself before and after activity to monitor water loss. Make sure you have rehydrated before your next exercise session. • Gradually increase activity in the heat over a period of 7–10 days to allow adequate acclimatization. • Wear light-weight and light-colored clothing during exercise or physical activity. • Schedule outdoor exercise at the coolest time of day, either early morning or after sunset. Strongly consider postponing or cancelling your activity when there are extreme heat and humidity conditions. Pay close attention to temperature and humidity. • Swimming and being active in the water is a great way to keep your core temperature cool while increasing your fitness level, but remember to hydrate throughout your exercise session. Exercise should be fun and if you are following good hydration and thermoregulation practices, being active outdoors can be a wonderful way to keep your body in motion! an apple a day june 2012 21
get fit with kim NEVER SAY NEVER—BUT ALWAYS SAY ALWAYS
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t happens at grocery stores, parties, church functions, and even family holidays. People are always evaluating what’s in my grocery basket and on my plate. I’ve gotten used to it (somewhat) over the years. It comes with the territory. After all, I am a nutritionist and personal trainer. I realize people may think I have a naturally fast metabolism or amazing will power. The fact is, I am human too, have cravings just like everyone else, and periodically indulge them. But I do consciously make an effort every day to eat nutritious foods and exercise. Recently, I had a friend ask me to give him a list of foods I never eat to help him “clean up” his diet. I pondered this awhile for several reasons, but the number one reason was only a few foods actually made that list. While the list is fairly long of foods I eat in moderation, I can’t completely eliminate many foods and have a life. I feel it’s very important to not compromise your morals, values, ethics, or health. But there are instances where you cannot always be in control of your food. If you mindfully eat nutritious foods the majority of the time, then those occasions (like travel and parties) where you must indulge won’t completely get you off track. In my experience, as soon as we have a forbidden foods list, our cravings for those foods dramatically increase. What you focus on tends to grow bigger. So, my “Foods I Never Eat” list instead became a “Foods I Always Eat” list. Okay, I will let you in on a couple of foods that made the never eat list. I know you are more curious about that and won’t read anything else I write until I tell. So, keep reading. I’ll reveal it at the end! ALWAYS Eat organic, free range, and fresh when available. • All fruits and vegetables • Chicken, eggs, turkey, and fish • Almond milk • Whole grain rolled oats • Sprouted bread
MODERATION Eat organic when available • Dairy: Limit to goat cheese, real buffalo mozzarella, Parmesan, plain nonfat Greek or Bulgarian yogurt. • Sugar: I find it rude to not eat birthday or wedding cake…in celebration of somebody. However, we don’t have to eat two pieces! I usually share a small piece. • Lean red meat: Longhorn sirloin or venison. • Organic corn tortillas and chips: never restaurants’ • Oils: I only use extra virgin olive oil or coconut oil • Nuts and nut butters • Rice NEVER • Artificial sweeteners • Alcohol: Sure-fire way to get into trouble (possibly jail…just kidding, Mom!) and pack on the pounds. Not to mention it’s a poison to your body and literally eats muscle tissue! • Highly processed packaged foods containing high fructose corn syrup, soy, gluten (if you are sensitive), and luncheon meats. • Soft drinks • Fried foods • Fast foods I know the always list seems short, but the combinations are endless when you branch out of your comfort zone and try new fruits and veggies. You don’t have to deprive yourself if you are willing to learn how to prepare your own food. It’s easier than you think! Check out the recipe on page 28 from my cooking class. Special thanks to this month’s contributor: Kim Clinkenbeard, CPT, ENS getfitwithkim@cableone.net
an apple a day june 2012 23
woof, woof!
the dog blog by mindy
Keliree Mitchell founded Pet Spotters, a Facebook site dedicated to connecting lost pets with their owners after losing her own pet Chihuahua, Mindy. Woof, Woof! represents stories related to this site and is dedicated to Mindy.
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was walking my dogs, Missy and Mickey, early one Saturday a week or so ago, when a lady in a big white truck pulled up beside me. She asked if I had seen her dog and she began to describe him to me. I listened carefully, and let her know that I would sure keep an eye out for him. I asked her to post his picture and her contact information on Pet Spotters and she said that she already had. As she drove away, I was reminded of Mindy and my heart sank. I hoped that she would find her dog. Later that evening, I was heading out to the store when I saw her big white truck pulling out of an alley. My heart really went out to her then because I knew she had been searching all day. I knew exactly what she was going through. The desperation and the sadness, every little movement that you see, hoping it would be her. She was driving streets and alleys, the same way I did when I lost Mindy, and I imagine the same way many people do when they have lost a pet. It’s pure heartbreak.
My heart really went out to her then because I knew she had been searching all day.
I remember when some people would tell me, “It’s just a lost dog. Get you another one.” Those people 24 march 2012 an apple a day
just don’t understand. Yes, she is a lost dog, but she was more than just a dog. She was family. She was my girl. It broke my heart to lose her and a broken heart is still a broken heart whether you lose a parent, a friend, or just a dog. It will still take time to put your heart back together and even then, there will still be a little piece that will stay missing. I was very upset. For some reason, this dog had touched my heart too and I decided that I would help her look for a while. So I drove around, up and down the streets and alleys. I never saw an animal anywhere. Finally, it was getting close to dark and I went on to the store, in a daze, trying to get her lost dog off my mind. It was pretty late when I made it home and went straight to my computer. I wanted to message her and let her know that I wanted to help as much as I could. When I pulled up Pet Spotters, it was good news. She had found her dog. She had made flyers and was going back out to post them on poles when she spotted her baby. I was just as happy as she was. It was a happy ending to a long, hard day. Every lost pet posted on Pet Spotters is someone’s heart breaking. It’s someone reaching out for help to find their pet. It’s so important that we do whatever we can do as a community to help, and whatever I can do as a friend, I will do.
Special thanks to this month’s contributor: Keliree Mitchell Founder, Pet Spotters www.facebook.com/petspotters
At Odessa Regional Medical Center, we have spent over 35 years caring for the mothers and babies of the Permian Basin. We offer the safety and security of state-of-the-art equipment in a home-like atmosphere, and we provide board certified neonatologists and high-risk pregnancy specialists 24/7 along with the most experienced and compassionate nursing and support staff around. We are the exclusive provider of a High-Risk Obstetrics Unit, and we also have the highest level Neonatal Intensive Care Unit available in the Permian Basin—a Level III NICU. We are proud to announce that we have recently renovated and expanded these patient care areas. However, above all we recognize that it’s the experience and compassion of our physicians and staff that set us apart. When it comes to delivering babies, it is more than just our job. It is our Passion. And for our new mothers, that means peace of mind. When experience counts, Choose Odessa Regional Medical Center.
(432) 582-8677 • odessaregionalmedicalcenter.com
Restoring Your Youthfulness
You do a lot to look and feel great, finding time to enjoy life to the fullest while still taking care of your body and skin. Yet the effects of sun, pollution, stress, and fatigue can add up, keeping your skin from looking as good as you feel. The Fraxel treatment is a safe, non-ablative laser skin procedure that can resurface damaged skin and uncover the youthful skin you long for. Improved tone and texture Reduced wrinkles around the eyes Erasing of unwanted brown sports Improved appearance of acne scars and surgical scars Effective treatment of pre-cancerous lesions (actinic keratosis) Excellent treatment for face, neck, chest, arms, legs, and back
Dr. Robert L. Chappell, Jr.
432–580–8060 Financing Available
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2012 Sierra Crew Cab
5251 E. 42nd St. Odessa, TX 79762 (432) 550–9950 • www.freedombg.com Visit us on Facebook
retail therapy HEALTHY SUMMER HAIR
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ost people know summer sun and activities can wreak havoc on your skin. Thus, they often take great precautions to avoid getting sunburned. But, the warm weather elements can also do real damage to your hair. Use these tips to learn how to keep healthy hair throughout this sunny season. PROTECT HAIR FROM SALT WATER AND CHLORINE Before you jump into the pool or the ocean to swim, you’ll need to take a few precautionary steps to protect your hair. The best thing you can do to protect your hair before swimming is to wet your hair thoroughly before getting into salt water at the beach or a pool with chlorine. The tap water you put on your hair will help fill in your hair’s open shafts and will clog them up so the chlorine or salt can’t soak in and do any damage. Never go into the pool with dry hair! After swimming, be sure to wash your hair with clarifying shampoo and hair products so you can be sure you get any remaining chlorine out of your hair. PROTECT HAIR COLOR FROM SUN DAMAGE To keep your color (whether you highlight, bleach, or dye) safe from the sun during the summer months, there are several things you can do. First, you can spray your hair with sunscreen before you experience any lengthy exposure to the sun. You might be able to find specialized hair products to
help prevent hair sun damage, but they are made of basically the same ingredients as regular sunscreen with moderate to high SPF levels. If you’re like most women, you’d rather save time and money by using one product for both purposes. In addition, don’t ever use lemon or other lightening products on your hair in an attempt to naturally highlight it. It can dry out your hair and leave you with more damage than it’s worth. GIVE HAIR MORE MOISTURE AND HEAT PROTECTION If you want to encourage growth or healthy, shiny hair, it’s important to avoid any type of heat damage. Excessive exposure to outdoor heat can damage your hair in the same way that frequent blow drying or curling does. If you find your hair is getting drier than usual, be sure to focus on ways to hydrate or moisturize it more. One easy trick to try is to double condition. You can quickly do this by using a 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner product, followed by a deep conditioner. If you find your roots aren’t as dry as the ends, simply use the extra conditioner on the ends alone. And just like the rest of the year, be sure to trim any split ends every six to eight weeks to help get rid of any damage. STOP BREAKOUTS AND HAIR BREAKAGE CAUSED BY SCALP SWEAT When you’re out in the summer heat and your hair gets ultra-sweaty, there are a few things you can to do protect your complexion as well as your hair. First, always be sure to wear only cloth covered elastic bands in your hair. If you use any other type, your sweaty hair can get tangled up in it and can break easily. In addition, to avoid any skin breakouts, be sure you keep your hair away from your face. Sweaty hair can easily stick to your forehead or cheeks, and cause you to experience acne or heat rashes.
This month's article courtesy of www.freebeautytips.org
an apple a day june 2012 27
Asian Shrimp & Rice Bowl by Kim Clinkenbeard, CPT, ENS 1 cup frozen brown rice 2/3 cup organic frozen mixed vegetables 4 oz. frozen shrimp (peeled and deveined) Toss together frozen rice and veggies in a microwavable safe bowl and add shrimp on top. Cover with plastic wrap. Microwave on high about 5 minutes (time may vary slightly per microwave). Let stand for about 2 minutes. Top with fresh diced scallions. Serve with Orange Sesame Sauce, roasted peanuts, and sesame seeds or any other condiment you like. You can also make this on the stove top in a sauce pot. You may have to add just a little liquid (broth or water) to get it going.
Orange Sesame Sauce 1/4 cup organic unsweetened apple juice 1/2 cup organic orange juice 2 Tbsp. rice vinegar 1 tsp. honey balsamic vinegar 1 Tbsp. reduced-sodium soy sauce, tamari sauce, or coconut sauce
1 tsp. minced garlic 2 tsp. freshly grated ginger 1 tsp. orange marmalade 1/8 – 1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes (optional) 1 Tbsp. arrowroot powder 2 Tbsp. organic tahini
Put all ingredients in a food processor and blend until smooth. Put in a salad dressing jar and keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Shake well before serving.
distribution points MIDLAND Flat Belly Organics 3326 N. Midkiff Rd. Graham Pharmacy 1601 W. Wall St. Fit Family Fitness 3404 N. Midland Dr. HEB Pharmacy 3325 W. Wadley Ave. Albertsons Pharmacy 1002 Andrews Hwy. 4706 N. Midkiff Rd. 3317 N. Midland Dr. Walgreens Drug Store 330 N. Midland Dr. 215 Andrews Hwy. 4313 Andrews Hwy.
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Peyton’s Bikes 4712 N. Midkiff ODESSA University Pharmacy and Medical Supplies 4850 E. University Blvd. Harmony Health Food Shoppe 3110 E. University Blvd. Suite A HEB Pharmacy 3801 E. 42nd St. Albertsons Pharmacy 1350 E. 8th St. 4950 E. 42nd St. 2751 N. County Road W.
Walgreens Drug Store 801 Maple Ave. 2161 E. 42nd St. 1305 W. University Blvd. The Odessa Family Y 3001 E. University Furr’s Music City Mall Smith’s Shoes 5101 Twin Towers Super Shapes 5000 E. University Blvd. Hunt Advertising 3527 Billy Hext Rd.
Right now you have your choice of rebate or financing! Choose from:
36 months no interest, equal pay, financing OR Up to $1,250 instant rebate*
air conditioning • heating • plumbing • ro water • insulation
*offer runs from march 15, 2012, to June 14, 2012. see your independent trane dealer for complete program eligibility, dates, details and restrictions. special financing offers or instant rebate from $100 up to $1,250 valid on qualifying systems only. all sales must be to homeowners in the united states. Void where prohibited. the home projects Visa card is issued by wells Fargo Financial national bank. special terms apply to qualifying purchases charged with approved credit at participating merchants. the special terms apr will continue to apply until all qualifying purchases are paid in full. reduced rate apr: monthly payments of at least 1.75% of the purchase balance are required during the special terms period. 0% apr: the minimum monthly payment will be the amount that will pay for the purchase in full in equal payments during the special terms period. For newly opened accounts, the regular apr is 27.99%. the apr will vary with the market based on the u.s. prime rate. the regular apr is given as of 1/10/2012. if you are charged interest in any billing cycle, the minimum interest charge will be $1.00. the regular apr will apply to certain fees such as a late payment fee or if you use the card for other transactions. if you use the card for cash advances, the cash advance fee is 5.0% of the amount of the cash advance, but not less than $10.00. monthly payment if shown based on $xx purchase.
3527 Billy Hext Road • Odessa, TX 79765 432 550 5998 • 866 550 7329 fax 432 550 7346 www.hapublishing.com