October Western Kentucky Healthy Cells 2011 by Healthy Cells Magazine

WESTERN KENTUCKY

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Promoting Healthier Living in Your Community • Physical • Emotional

OCTOBER 2011

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HealthyCells

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• Nutritional

Merryman House

A Safe Haven Where Victims of Domestic Violence Can Become Victors pg. 12

The Fight Against Breast Cancer pg. 16

Don’t Be a Victim of Fraud pg. 18

What Will You Gain From Losing pg. 25

October 2011 — Western Kentucky — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 3

OCTOBER

2011 Volume 1, Issue 4

Children’s Health: Bellewood’s Independent Living Program

This Month’s Cover Story:

Emotional: “Killer Clichés About Loss”

A Safe Haven Where Victims of Domestic Violence Can Become Victors

Physical: Beyond Breast Cancer

Healing Therapy: Got Arthritis, Get a Massage

Early Detection: The Fight Against Breast Cancer

Medicare: Don’t Become a Victim of Fraud

Prostate Health: “You Can’t Have One Without an Erection – Can You?”

Women’s Health: A Survivor’s Story, A Twisted Path…

Obesity Epidemic: More Kids Eating Calorie-Packed Take-Out Food

Healthy Breathing: Tips To Keep Your Lungs In Shape

Healthcare Interns: Physical Therapy

page 12

Nutritional: Natural Supplements for Women’s Health Blood Sugar

Merryman House

Weight Management: What Will You Gain From Losing?

Paducah Lifeline: Helping People Through Life

Cover and feature story photos by fike fotos For advertising information, contact Kelly Rosa, owner. Office: 270-362-4180 • Cell: 309-696-3694 P.O. Box 432, Gilbertsville, KY 42044 kelly@healthycellsmagazine.com Healthy Cells Magazine is a division of: 1711 W. Detweiller Dr., Peoria, IL 61615 • Ph: 309-681-4418 Fax: 309-691-2187 info@limelightlink.com

Mission: The objective of Healthy Cells Magazine is to promote a stronger health-conscious community by means of offering education and support through the cooperative efforts among esteemed health and fitness professionals in the Western Kentucky area. Healthy Cells Magazine is intended to heighten awareness of health and fitness information and does not suggest diagnosis or treatment. This information is not a substitute for medical attention. See your healthcare professional for medical advice and treatment. The opinions, statements, and claims expressed by the columnists, advertisers, and contributors to Healthy Cells Magazine are not necessarily those of the editors or publisher. Healthy Cells Magazine is available FREE in high traffic locations throughout the Western Kentucky area, including medical facilities and other waiting rooms. Healthy Cells Magazine welcomes contributions pertaining to healthier living in the Western Kentucky area. Limelight Communications, Inc. assumes no responsibility for their publication or return. Solicitations for articles shall pertain to physical, emotional, and nutritional health only.

children’s health

Bellewood’s Independent Living Program Submitted by Bellewood Independent Living

ears are streaming down the young woman’s face as she opens up the pearl necklace that was given to her as a birthday and graduation gift from Bellewood’s Independent Living program. She begins to sob and the words coming out of her mouth are inaudible. We hear bits and pieces of what she is saying – “grateful, loved, I have so many women I can call Mom now.” From that point on, it wasn’t just the young woman in tears but the entire room full of people. I smile as I think back to the night before and the call I receive from our Independent Living case manager, Craig Felker, as he tells me about a pearl necklace with a pricey gift tag staring at him from behind a glass enclosure in the mall. We are trying to decide how we can afford such a gift for a client graduating from Bellewood’s Independent Living program. You see, the client I speak of is someone who is very special, just like all of our youth. This is a young woman who came into the program pregnant and very scared, who not only completed the program but has excelled in all areas of her life. Our goal at Bellewood, is to always go above and beyond for each and every child and family. However, when Craig came to me with the additional idea of 21 cakes, one for each year of this particular Independent Living Youth’s life (because she went so many years with no birthday cake), I was thinking “Couldn’t we just do 21 cupcakes?” His reply was, “No way. What we don’t eat we will donate to the homeless shelter.” And off we went to put his plan into action. That is just how it is at Bellewood as we try to figure out how to best meet each child’s needs and let each child know how special they are. Bellewood was founded in 1849 as a single orphanage in Louisville, Kentucky and is now a statewide nonprofit agency with services for youth and families. In the Paducah area Bellewood offers independent living services for youth who have aged out of the foster care system as well as therapeutic foster care. The Paducah office trains families in the Western Kentucky areas of Fulton, Hickman, Carlisle, Ballard, McCracken, Graves, Marshall, Livingston, Calloway, Lyon, Trigg, Christian, Todd, Muhlenberg, Hopkins, Caldwell, and Crittenden Counties to take care of abused, neglected, and special needs youth who are in state’s custody. Most of the children in our foster care system are in the system due to no fault of their own. When we place a foster child into one of foster homes, we never know for sure how long the child will stay. Many are returned to their biological families and one of our goals is to work to help make this happen when it is appropriate. Some children can never return home and become available for adoption. We provide therapy services as foster children enter care with vari-

ous issues and are most always in some stage of grief – some cry a great deal and some communicate their feelings of sadness and loss through the expression of anger. The incredible thing about children is that they are extremely resilient and it is truly an honor to walk with these children through this process. Bellewood’s independent living program serves young adults, 18-21 in Paducah, Murray, and Princeton. Previously when a child turned 18 and aged out of the foster care program the most we could do was say a prayer, give them a hug, and wish them well. However, with our independent living program we are able to provide young adults with a great start. Bellewood furnishes and pays for an apartment, assists them with obtaining employment, helps them enroll and complete some type of education or job training program and gets them connected to a mentor that will stay in their lives for years to come. Our independent living program thrives with the help of volunteers from the First Presbyterian Church of Paducah and incredible mentors like Darin and Joy Lampley. Bellewood provides adoption services to the Western Kentucky community and also has a program that involves going into the home and focusing on prevention with the goal of keeping children with their families when possible. Bellewood is actively seeking foster parents and mentors and we welcome all inquires. Please contact Carla Sizemore or Elaine Brelsford at 270-443-8181 or visit www.bellewood.org. October 2011 — Western Kentucky — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 5

emotional

“Killer Clichés About Loss” Healthy Cells magazine is pleased to present the first in a series of feature articles on the subject of Grief ❣ Recovery®. The articles are written by Russell P. Friedman, Executive Director, and John W. James, Founder, of The Grief Recovery Institute. Russell and John are co-authors of WHEN CHILDREN GRIEVE - For Adults to Help Children Deal with Death, Divorce, Pet Loss, Moving, and Other Losses - Harper Collins, June, 2001 - & THE GRIEF RECOVERY HANDBOOK - The Action Program For Moving Beyond Death, Divorce, and Other Losses [Harper Perrenial, 1998]. The articles combine educational information with answers to commonly asked questions.

e have all been educated to acquire things. We have been taught how to get an education, get a job, buy a house, etc. There are colleges, universities, trade schools, and technical schools. You can take courses in virtually anything that might interest you. What education do we receive about dealing with loss? What school do you go to learn to deal with the conflicting feelings caused by significant emotional loss? Loss is so much more predictable and inevitable than gain, and yet we are woefully ill-prepared to deal with loss. One of the most damaging killer cliches about loss is time heals all wounds. When we present open lectures on the subject of Grief ❣ Page 6 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Western Kentucky — October 2011

Recovery ®, we often ask if anyone is still feeling pain, isolation, or loneliness as the result of the death of a loved one 20 or more years ago. There are always several hands raised in response to that question. Then we gently ask, “if time is going to heal, then 20 years still isn’t enough?” While recovery from loss does take some time, it need not take as much time as you have been led to believe. Recovery is totally individual. There is no absolute time frame. Sometimes in an attempt to conform to other people’s time frames, we do ourselves great harm. This idea leads us to another of the killer cliches — you should be over it by now.

Volunteer with Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) It is bad enough that well-meaning, well-intentioned friends attack us with killer cliches, but then we start picking on ourselves. We start believing that we are defective or somehow deficient because we haven’t recovered yet. If we take just the two killer cliches we’ve mentioned so far, we can see that they have something in common. They both imply that a nonaction will have some therapeutic or recovery value. That by waiting, and letting some time pass, we will heal. Let’s add a third cliche to the batch — you have to keep busy. Many grievers follow this incorrect advice and work two or three jobs. They fill their time with endless tasks and chores. At the end of any given day, asked how they feel, invariably they report that their heart still feels broken; all they accomplished by staying busy was to get exhausted.

“Grief ❣ Recovery® allow you to have fond memories not turn painful and

SMP is a group of highly trained volunteers, who help beneficiaries prevent and detect health care fraud through education and outreach. Qualifications: ability and willingness to communicate health care information to seniors and the general public Duties: participate in community outreach activities; distribute educational resources; assist with administrative tasks; additional opportunities available depending on experience Training: core training on the SMP program, Medicare Basics, and Fraud and Abuse provided Commitment: Minimum 4 hours per month Other requirements: Criminal Background check

help you retake a happy and productive place in your own life.”

Contact: For more infor mation, contact La S h e a S u t t o n at (270)442-8993 or lashea@pmcsc. o rg http://www.rsvpofpaducah.org/MedPa t r o l . h t m

Now, with only three basic killer cliches we can severely limit and restrict our ability to participate in effective recovery. It is not only that people around us tell us these cliches, in an attempt to help, but we ourselves learned and practiced these false beliefs for most of our lives. It is time for us to learn some new and helpful beliefs to assist us in grieving and completing relationships that have ended or changed. QUESTION: I have heard that it takes two years to get over the death of a loved one; five years to get over the death of a parent; and you never get over the death of a child. Is this true? ANSWER: Part of the problem is the phrase get over. It is more accurate to say that you would never forget a child who had died, any more than you would ever forget a parent or a loved one. Another part of the problem is one of those killer cliches we talked about, that time, of itself, is a recovery action. Although recovery from loss does take some time, it is the actions within time that lead to successful recovery. The primary goal of Grief ❣ Recovery® is to help you “grieve and complete” your relationship to the pain caused by the emotional changes caused by death, divorce, and other losses. Successful application of the principles and actions of Grief ❣ Recovery® allow you to have fond memories not turn painful and help you retake a happy and productive place in your own life. In addition, you regain the ability to begin new relationships, rather than attempting to replace or avoid past relationships. Next month: “Less Than Loved Ones — Hopes And Dreams” For information about programs and services, write to The Grief Recovery Institute, P.O. Box 6061-382 Sherman Oaks, CA 91413. Call 818-907-9600 or Fax: 818-907-9329. Please visit our website at: www.grief-recovery.com.

There’s No Place Like Home

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1-866-515-0897 837 Hwy 68 West in Draffenville

“If you can’t come to us, we will come to you”

24/7 Service • We File Insurance Claims for you • Free Delivery October 2011 — Western Kentucky — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 7

nutritional

Natural Supplements for Women’s Health Blood Sugar By Alex Syrov

ne of the problems that women face is high blood sugar. There are a number of factors that can cause high blood sugar levels. Pregnancy and menopause change estrogen levels which affect metabolism and how body processes fat. In turn, that affects blood sugar levels. Menstruation also affects blood sugar, at least indirectly. Everyone has heard about “those pesky hormones” and all about craving certain foods like salty items such as chips or everyone’s favorite treat, chocolate. With some dietary changes and a little help from supplements you can achieve a healthy balance in your blood sugar levels.   Tackling the Diet   Carbohydrates are important for your body, but eating too many of them in your diet can cause your blood sugar to have more drastic highs and lows. In addition, you’ll find that more fat collects along your midriff and hips. By being selective in the types of carbs you ingest, you will still get what you need in your diet but without those blood sugar swings.  Just say no to processed foods. Basically white foods — anything with white flour and sugars — are converted more quickly to glucose in your body. This causes a spike in your blood sugar levels that lasts just a short time. Before you know it, your energy plummets and you feel lethargic because that “sugar rush” is gone. Then, in order to get that energy level back up, you eat more carbs and the cycle starts all over again.  By choosing carbohydrates that are found in whole grain foods, your body has to work harder to process them. What this means for you is that extreme high-low factor goes away and you are left with a more balanced blood sugar level and Page 8 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Western Kentucky — October 2011

your energy level is more consistent. And because your body works harder to process these types of carbohydrates, you are expending calories, meaning less fat gets deposited in your mid-section.   Vitamins and Supplements  While taking care with your diet helps greatly, sometimes you just need an additional boost. This is where women supplements and vitamins for women come in. Business is booming with herbal supplements and special vitamin formulas. But which ones help

for products from companies that only specialize in vitamins and supplements products for women. Be sure to check with your doctor to determine which ones might be best for you. If you are taking other medications, certain vitamins or women supplements might counteract with them.  It all boils down to common sense. Do your research into the different vitamins and supplements. Make positive changes in your diet. Women are built differently than men. Therefore, you must be more diligent with your body and what goes into it for your health.

“With some dietary changes and a little help from supplements you can achieve a healthy balance in your blood sugar levels.” with your blood sugar?   When your blood sugar levels fluctuate, it can be draining on your body and leave you feeling a bit sluggish. Taking supplements for women that contain chromium might give you a boost and alleviate some of that fatigue. If you have diabetes or might be prone to developing it, ginseng can also be beneficial. It has been known to boost metabolism and help control blood sugar.  If you are looking for vitamins or supplements you have to make sure you only buy high quality products. Always look

This article was provided by nutraOrigin - the makers of naturebased supplements for women. For more information about various women health issues, tips and nutraOrigin products, visit http://www. nutraorigin.com/. Article Source: http://www.ArticleGeek.com

October 2011 — Western Kentucky — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 9

physical

Beyond Breast Cancer Submitted by Restoration Physical Therapy

reast cancer is the cancer women fear most and the second leading cause of cancer deaths in American women. The word cancer reminds us unexpectedly of our mortality. The diagnosis of breast cancer frequently brings about physical, emotional and spiritual distress that can be devastating to the patient, but also to their families and significant others. Although breast cancer is an increasingly common diagnosis, it always comes as a surprise. Martina Navratilova, nine-time Wimbledon singles champion, cried when her biopsy was positive. She stated, “ I am shocked. This is my 911.” Many celebrities have openly admitted to their diagnosis of breast cancer and much publicity has been generated, but many women are Page 10 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Western Kentucky — October 2011

still not aware of the risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options for breast cancer. Risk Factors The risk of developing breast cancer increases with age. It has been shown that the following factors increase risk. • Previous history of breast cancer • Family history of breast cancer • Onset of menses before age 12 • Delivery of first child after age 30 • Use of estrogen-progesterone combination for more than 5 years

• Exposing the chest wall to radiation • Obesity increases risk after menopause • Alcohol consumption • Physical inactivity • Genetic alterations like BRCA1, BRCA2 (no more than 10% of all breast cancers) Signs and Symptoms Widespread use of screening mammograms has increased the number of breast cancers found before they cause any symptoms, but some breast cancers are not found by mammogram, either because the test was not done or because even under ideal conditions, mammograms do not find every breast cancer. The most common sign of breast cancer is a new lump or mass. A painless, hard mass that has irregular edges is more likely to be cancerous, but breast cancers can be tender, soft, or rounded. For this reason, it is important that any new breast mass or lump be checked by a health care professional experienced in diagnosing breast diseases Other possible signs of breast cancer include: • Swelling of all or part of a breast (even if no distinct lump is felt) • Skin irritation or dimpling • Breast or nipple pain • Nipple retraction (turning inward) • Redness, scaliness, or thickening of the nipple or breast skin • Nipple discharge Sometimes a breast cancer can spread to underarm lymph nodes and cause a lump or swelling there, even before the original tumor in the breast tissue is large enough to be felt. Diagnosis and Treatment If you have any of the signs or symptoms mentioned above be sure to see your doctor as soon as possible. There are several diagnostic tests that may be used if your doctor has any suspicion of breast cancer. These might include mammograms, MRI, ultrasound, ductogram, ductal lavage, nipple aspiration or a biopsy. There are many variations of these diagnostic studies, but your doctor will determine which test will provide the most valuable information. There are many different interventions available for the treatment of breast cancer, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormonal therapy or a combination of these. Treatment is dependent on the staging of cancer. Women who are at high risk for developing breast cancer may opt for a preventive mastectomy. This is also called a prophylactic or risk-reducing mastectomy. It is the surgical removal of one or both breasts in an effort to prevent or reduce the risk of breast cancer. Data suggests that preventive mastectomy may significantly reduce the chances of developing breast cancer in high-risk women. After Breast Surgery Unfortunately there are multiple complications that can occur from various cancer treatments. Side effects of chemotherapy and radiation include fatigue, cardiac toxicity, GI distress, hair loss, joint pain, muscle pain peripheral neuropathy, blood disorders irregular heart beat and several more. In other words the treatments can potentially influence every system in the body in a negative manner. To add to this most patients undergoing treatment are in bed frequently. Bed rest in itself has detrimental effects on the entire body. There may also be complications from surgery. Another commonly reported problem that occurs with the treatment of breast cancer is loss of self-esteem. Many factors contribute to how an individual feels about themselves and the changes that occur to their body image such as hair loss, the loss of a breast(s), weight gain/loss,

and scars that can create feelings of vulnerability. Western civilization has placed a huge burden on women through advertising and expectations regarding the way a woman should look that loss of body image can be devastating. Many breast cancer patients’ experience “normal” distress, but there is a subset that experience clinically significant depression and may benefit from psychiatric evaluation. Cancer can produce profound metabolic and physiological alterations that can affect the nutritional needs for proteins, carbohydrates, fat, vitamin, and minerals. Symptoms such as anorexia, early satiety, changes in taste and smell, and disturbances of the gastrointestinal tract are common side effects of cancer treatment and can lead to inadequate nutrient intake and subsequent malnutrition. Nutrition can play an important role in the management of the cancer patient. Seeking guidance from a registered and licensed dietitian is an important step in the recovery process. Food choices and eating patterns are one aspect of life over which the patient has some control. Benefits of Exercise Many people with cancer may be inclined to rest and take it easy during and after treatment, however a review of the literature supports the benefits of exercise. The first study of cancer patients and exercise was performed in 1986 demonstrating that high-intensity aerobic exercise was safe for patients receiving chemotherapy. These early researchers broke some of the barriers and fears that physicians and people in general had regarding exercising while in chemotherapy. Many research studies have been performed since then demonstrating that exercise is beneficial in numerous ways including decreased fatigue, improved self-esteem, physical fitness, and chemotherapy completion rates in breast cancer patients receiving chemotherapy. Studies have repeatedly shown that exercise relieves nausea, improves appetite, reduces pain and diarrhea, and may even help cognition or what many patients call “chemobrain.” There are many challenging side effects of cancer, but the most common and perhaps the most frustrating is fatigue. Our natural instinct would be to rest when we are tired or “sick”. But in fact, rest can make patients weak and debilitated. Exercise reduces fatigue and those who have seen the greatest results say that the best time to exercise is when they feel their worst. This is a hard concept to swallow when someone is too tired to move, work or do other things they value. On the other hand we all know that declines in physical ability has a negative impact on emotional and social function and causes other serious problems, such as muscle wasting, bone loss, and a declined\ in heart and lung function. Being fit may not seem very important when confronted with the challenge of cancer and its treatment, but being physically fit is crucial to living a full life during and following treatment. Empowerment Restore is a holistic approach to health and wellness for women who are living with, through and beyond breast cancer offered at Restoration Physical Therapy. A physical therapist will design an exercise program specifically for you following the most recent guidelines available through the literature. Education will be provided including prevention and treatment for Lymphedema. A dietitian is available for consultation. Multiple resources will be offered including psychological intervention, fitter for bras and prosthesis, hairdresser and esthetician. Many breast cancer survivors are grateful that their life was saved, but may be angry and depressed that they are left with so many challenges to deal with due to the effects of treatment. Know that you are not alone if you are feeling angry, depressed and confused. Don’t let these emotions consume your life. Seek help. You can do it! You are strong! Look at all you have come through! For more information contact Kathy Rorer, PT, DPT at 270-554-2883 October 2011 — Western Kentucky — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 11

feature story

Merryman House

A Safe Haven Where Victims of Domestic Violence Can Become Victors By Gordon Fidler

magine starting your day with a nice hot cup of coffee, a newspaper or your favorite book, and perhaps a bowl of fresh fruit, all while nestled in your favorite chair, couch or hammock. Perhaps you’re on the deck or a balcony, overlooking woods or water, listening to the sounds of the season while enjoying the warmth of the sun and a light breeze that gently massages your face. What a great way to warm up to the events of the day, no matter what they may be. For Lisa*, her day in the Spring of this year started out a bit different. After telling her husband he could sleep in a little longer before going to work, she got the coffee started and went in to play with her son before getting him ready to go to school. Within 15 minutes of her husband waking up, a nightmare of unequalled proportions began. He came up behind her, grabbed her arms and threw her to the ground, at which time she fell unconscious. This was followed by multiple blows to her face and head, and as she found out later after seeing the jeans she had on at the time of the attack, he finished by stomping on her right thigh, leaving a bloody boot print behind. All of this was witnessed by her young son as he stood by helplessly in his own bedroom. Page 12 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Western Kentucky — October 2011

When Lisa regained consciousness, her husband had placed her in a rocking chair, and was kneeling in front of her repeating, baby I’m going to jail, baby, I’m going to lose my job. Lisa said at that point, she had no thoughts at all, it was if her life had been reset. She had no reference points, didn’t know what had just happened, felt no pain, and couldn’t comprehend why her husband would go to jail or loose his job, but didn’t want either to happen. As she began to reach up to touch her face, he stopped her and said don’t. Shortly thereafter, her husband’s mother arrived at their home. She threw a blanket over Lisa’s head, put her in a car and drove her to the hospital. Upon arrival at the hospital, her mother in-law told the physicians she didn’t know what had happened and left. This may sound like the scene from a movie, unfortunately it is not, it’s called domestic violence. All too often scenarios like this, sometimes worse, play themselves out in homes everywhere. For whatever reason somebody gets angry, and the person closest to them pays the price, emotionally and/or physically. In this case, Lisa is around to tell her story, others don’t make it. She said she has driven through cemeteries looking at the various headstones saying , “I’m not there, I’m not there, and I’m not there.” She said she then

goes home and lives her life. But life is different now. It took nearly three months to recover physically from the attack. Her nose had been driven over under her right eye, there were multiple lacerations, both on her face and inside her mouth, several teeth had been knocked loose, she received multiple bruises, her shoulder was injured, and she had a concussion. Aside from the continuous pain in her shoulder, today there is almost no visual evidence of the horrific trauma Lisa experienced, but that’s just the physical side of the equation. Because she was post-concussive, Lisa’s judgement, memory and ability to process her thoughts was severely hampered. In the weeks following her release from the hospital, Lisa noticed her ability to think more clearly began to improve and she was slowly able to better understand what was happening. Not only was she ashamed of having been abused, Lisa now had a new, constant companion, fear. “Unless you have been through something like this,” she said, “you don’t know what it’s like to have two people who want you dead.” Then she began to dream again. Since she was unconscious during the event, she had no flashbacks to what happened. Instead, she began to process in her dreams the events leading up to the attack and what she could remember afterwards. Meanwhile, Lisa and her son had to live somewhere safe and she needed help connecting with a variety of services; enter the Merryman House Domestic Crisis Center. Founded in 1978, the Merryman House provides free services to all victims of domestic violence, including shelter for those in need. The large, secluded home near Paducah is designed to provide above all, a safe environment for domestic violence victims and their children. In addition to the physical security it offers, staff there serve as advocates working with each woman to help her understand her options in light of their unique situation. Staff do not make decisions for their clients, they simply help explain the options to ensure each woman knows what is available so they can be empowered to make decisions for themselves. Laurie Sullenger, an outreach advocate at Merryman House and a domestic violence survivor herself, is passionate about helping other domestic violence victims. She and the other advocates help their clients with issues related to court, hospitals, doctors, food, clothing or any other need they have as they work through the complicated domestic violence experience. These advocates, however, don’t limit themselves to just the women who enter the Merryman House. Laurie said she also works with clients who are living in other housing, as well as those who are still living in abusive relationships. She is there for them because the time may come when they decide to leave that relationship, which happens frequently. The average victim leaves and returns to their abuser seven times. But when they decide to leave for good, then it gets real scary. According to Sullenger, “Domestic Violence victims are more likely to be victims of homicide when they are estranged from their partners than when they live with their partners”. Helping clients grow to the point where they are able to physically, mentally and emotionally live on their own takes time. The educational process is a lengthy one and includes learning how to get down to the primary issues in their lives that typically lead to them picking another abuser as a partner. Sullenger said the women have to learn how to give off a healthy aura. An abuser will easily pick up on someone who is unhealthy and if the women aren’t careful, the cycle will begin all over. One of the key components offered by Merryman House staff is that they will listen. When their clients tell their story, they will be heard. When they talk about their frustrations, they will be heard. When they voice concern, describe their fear or their hopes and dreams, they will be heard. And as a result, perhaps for the first time, the victim can begin to see themselves as a victor. October 2011 — Western Kentucky — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 13

feature story

continued Domestic Violence at a Glance The problem of domestic violence is not a new one, and unfortunately it still occurs on a daily basis. Although some men are victims of domestic violence, the overwhelming majority of victims are women. According to the Domestic Violence Resource Center, one out of every four women is abused....that’s 25 percent! Sometimes definitions don’t really help with our understanding of what something is, so how do we recognize the signs of an abusive relationship which may turn violent? Although it is not a comprehensive list**, if you or anyone you know is experiencing any of the following, it is probably an abusive relationship: • W ithheld approval, appreciation or affection from you as punishment • Continually criticized you, called you names, or shouted at you • Humiliated you in private or public • Insulted or drove away your friends and family • Took car keys or money away from you • Locked you out of the house • Thrown objects at you • Abused pets to hurt you • Punched, shoved, slapped, bit, kicked, choked or hit you • Raped you, or forced you to have sex when you did not want to • Threatened to kidnap or harm the children if you leave • Threatened to commit suicide if you leave There is a cycle of violence in domestic abuse that is easily identified. First there is Abuse which is designed to show the victim “who is boss”. This is followed by Guilt, but not because of what the abuser did, more so because they are afraid of being caught and facing consequences for their actions. “Normal” Behavior is next. Here the abuser does everything they can to regain control and keep the victim in the relationship. Seeing the peaceful honeymoon phase, the victim is hopeful their abuser has really changed. It is during this phase when Fantasy and Planning begins. The abuser begins to fantasize about the next abuse, thinking about all the things the victim has done “wrong”, and how they can turn the abuse into reality. Finally, the victim is Set-Up and the abuser puts his plan in action creating a situation where the victim will be blamed and they can justify abusing again. What Can You Do? If you think you are a victim, get help, now! If you know of someone you think is a victim, talk with them about developing a cautious and discrete plan to protect themselves. Men, be men! Treat women with proper respect. If you have a buddy who you think may be an abuser, confront them, don’t let them continue their abuse! You may end up saving someone’s life. Those interested in helping can also donate household items that can be used at the Merryman House or will be given to the women as they move out on their own to begin a fresh start. Financial donations are always welcome too. Finally, we should all be aware that domestic violence happens, is not right, and everyone has the responsibility to speak up against it, and whenever possible, take action to stop it. Whatever our role is, each of us should strive to do our part to protect someone from becoming another victim. * Lisa is not the victim’s real name. ** Portions of the list were obtained from the book “Getting Free” by Ginny NiCarthy

For more information or assistance contact the Merryman House at 270-443-6001 or 800-585-2686 Page 14 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Western Kentucky — October 2011

healing therapy

Got Arthritis, Get a Massage By Jenny Stephens, LMT

hose suffering from arthritis and receive gentle massage on a regular basis can receive a reduction of pain from the body producing pain endorphins. Therefore having less pain, less stiffness and having an overall improvement in physical functions of the body parts affected by arthritis. Gentle massage and rubbing of the ligaments, muscles, and tendons can also ease the symptoms of anxiety, depression and stress associated with those affected by arthritis; helping the body to relax, rejuvenate, unwind, and rebalance. The more often an individual receives gentle massage therapy the more benefits and relief you will receive. The following massage frequency will get you the best results for your arthritis condition: • Once a week for the first month. • T wice a month for the second month. • O nce a month there after, unless you feel you need to come more often. Most individuals receive the best results by receiving massage two times a month. Osteoarthritis: Is a degenerative joint disease. While osteoarthritis is not as debilitative as rheumatoid arthritis, it is very painful, from the result of excessive wear and tear of the bones, cartilage, joints and spine. Rheumatoid Arthritis: Is an autoimmune disease. Rheumatoid arthritis causes extreme pain and cause stiffness and limit movement of the affected joint. With Rheumatoid arthritis your immune system basically causes inflammation in parts of your body with joints. This shows up as heat, redness, pain and swelling around the affected joints. The most common affected areas of the body are the feet and hands. Rheumatoid arthritis also can affect the ankles, elbows, hips, knees, jaw, neck and shoulders. Massage therapy cannot cure or stop the progression of arthritic conditions, but massage can definitely ease pain and symptoms of inflammation, and help improve the quality of life of those affected by arthritis.

Benefits of Massage: • Increase circulation • Increase movement • Decrease pain and inflammation • Lessen muscle aches and stiffness • A sense of overall relaxation and well being Not only is massage totally relaxing and rejuvenating it is very therapeutic. Individuals that receive regular massages do not get sick as often as others and when they do they don’t get it as bad or keep it as long. Why not schedule your massage session today! Massage does not replace medical treatment and its purpose is to promote better health and well being. For more information or to schedule your appointment, please contact Jenny Stephens at 270-415-3444. Jenny’s Day Spa is located at 4793 Village Square Drive, Suite J, Paducah, KY. October 2011 — Western Kentucky — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 15

early detection

The Fight Against

Breast Cancer Submitted by American Cancer Society

uring the annual National Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October, the American Cancer Society is urging women to follow early detection guidelines for breast cancer and to make healthy behavioral changes to lower their risk of breast cancer. An estimated 230,480 new cases of invasive breast cancer and 39,520 deaths from breast cancer are expected to occur among women in the U.S. in 2011, according to the American Cancer Society. Among Kentucky women, 3,470 new cases are expected and 590 deaths are estimated. Page 16 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Western Kentucky — October 2011

“As the Official Sponsor of Birthdays, the American Cancer Society wants women to experience the benefits of choosing to put their health first,” said Ellen Schroeder, Kentucky health initiatives director at the American Cancer Society. “Women can take action and put their personal breast health first to stay well, fight breast cancer and save lives. Thanks in part to early detection and improved treatment, more than 2.5 million breast cancer survivors will celebrate a birthday this year,” said Schroeder.

Breast cancer is a leading cause of cancer death in women, second only to lung cancer. The Society is reminding women 40 and older to have a yearly mammogram and clinical breast exam. Also, the Society recommends that women ages 20 to 39 receive a clinical breast exam once every three years. The five-year survival rate is 98 percent for breast cancer that is diagnosed in the earliest stages. The Society offers newly diagnosed women and those living with breast cancer a variety of programs and services to help them in their breast cancer experience. • R each to Recovery helps newly diagnosed patients cope with their breast cancer experience. Reach to Recovery volunteers offer the unique understanding, support, and hope from the perspective of someone who has survived breast cancer. • T he Look Good…Feel Better program helps breast cancer patients manage the physical side effects of treatment. Patients gain beauty techniques to help improve their self-esteem and quality of life, but also a sense of support, confidence, courage and community with other cancer patients in the program. • T he Hope Lodge program offers patients free lodging for those receiving treatment far from home. In Kentucky, the Hope Lodge is located in Lexington near the University of Kentucky. • T he Society offers free information to help make treatment decisions and access to its programs 24/7 through 1-800-227-2345 or cancer.org. Women can reduce their risk of breast cancer by taking additional steps to stay well by maintaining a healthy weight, eating a well-balanced diet, and engaging in physical activity for at least 30 minutes on five or more days of the week. Also, limiting alcohol

consumption can reduce breast cancer risk -- one or more alcoholic beverages a day may increase risk. In addition to helping women stay well and get well, the American Cancer Society has a long history of commitment to finding cures for breast cancer. The Society has invested more on breast cancer research than on any other cancer, and has played a part in many of the major breast cancer research breakthroughs in the past century, including the discoveries that led to the development of Tamoxifen and Herceptin. The American Cancer Society and its affiliate advocacy organization, the American Cancer Society Cancer Action NetworkSM (ACS CAN), continue to fight back against breast cancer by engaging in activities to increase funding for the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP) that provides low-income, uninsured and underinsured women access to mammograms, Pap tests, follow-up care and treatment. Current funding only enables the program to serve fewer than one in five eligible women ages 50 to 64 nationwide. ACS CAN encourages anyone touched by this disease to let Congress know that support for the NBCCEDP is important and that an increase in funding for this program is vital to its continuation. To get involved, or to learn more about this effort, please visit acscan.org/breastcancer. To learn more about breast cancer or to get help, call the American Cancer Society 24 hours a day at 1-800-227-2345 or visit cancer.org.

October 2011 — Western Kentucky — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 17

medicare

Don’t Become a Victim of Fraud

LaShea Sutton, Program Coordinator, Senior Medicare Patrol, Serving Ballard, Carlisle, Fulton, Hickman, Marshall & McCracken Counties

very day, the nation’s health care system is victimized by health care fraud perpetrators intent on lining their own pockets at the expense of the American taxpayer, patients, and private insurers. This not only drives up costs for everyone in the health care system, it hurts the long term solvency of Medicare and Medicaid, two programs upon which millions of Americans depend. New tools contained in the Affordable Healthcare Act help to safeguard taxpayer dollars and ensure that the health care coverage of our seniors, families and children is secure. We cannot ignore the fact that health care fraud remains a significant problem; Senior Medicare Patrol Programs are located throughout all 50 states including Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands. These projects are dedicated to Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries on educating “how-to” avoid, detect, and prevent health care fraud. By doing this older Americans are not only protected but SMP projects are preserving the integrity of the Medicare and Medicaid programs by saving tax payers’ dollars against fraudulent activities. Our work is making a significant difference. The Health and Human Services (HHS) has doubled the size of the Senior Medicare Patrol to put more boots on the ground in the fight against Medicare fraud. Substantial progress has been accomplished on providing better choices for consumers, tackling health care costs, and holding insurance companies accountable. SMP not only partners with HHS we also partner with the Office of Inspector General (OIG), and many other federal, state, and local law enforcement officials. While all of these agencies have been hard at work scam artists continue to profit to capitalize on ways to “fraud” the system. We have heard increasing reports about seniors being asked to provide their Social Security numbers in order to receive a “donut hole” check under the new law, raising concerns about potential identity theft scams. We have fielded consumer complaints about phony insurance policies, and our Senior Medicare Patrols have been receiving a growing number of calls from people across the country reporting potential fraud schemes. Fraud schemes have plagued public and private health care plans for decades. Fraudsters have been stealing billions of dollars a year from Medicare, Medicaid, and private health insurers. The new tools and resources provided by the Affordable Care Act Page 18 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Western Kentucky — October 2011

will help to further crack down on fraud. These include new criminal and civil penalties, enhanced information technology to track and prevent fraud in the first place, and new authorities to prevent bad actors from billing Medicare and Medicaid. HHS has already issued the first set of fraud prevention regulations required under the new health law. These regulations strengthen provider enrollment requirements to ensure we have the ability to better identify, screen, and audit providers and claims. Securing health care coverage, affordability, and choices for Americans requires hard work and vigilance. Senior Medicare Patrol Programs are dedicated to strengthening the ability to detect and root out Medicaid fraud! This program offers “free” counseling for Medicare, Medicare part D insurance plans, and practical assistance for those Medicare questions. If you would like more information on this great program please contact me at 1-270-442-8993.

prostate health

“You Can’t Have One Without an Erection - Can You?” Fourth in a Series of Excerpts from Making Love Again The subject matter of this book is of a personal and explicit nature, and may not be suitable for younger or ultra-conservative readers.

By: Virginia and Keith Laken Laptop Notes, May 1, 1995 Three months since my surgery. Three months without sex. I’ve never gone this long before, and I don’t want to go much longer. I should be seeing some sign by now! At first I wasn’t thinking about sex much, but this last month I’ve been thinking about it a lot and nothing is happening.I can’t come on to Gin when I can’t even achieve an erection. It would be too humiliating. Journal Entry, May 3, 1995 We haven’t made love again since that second night home from the hospital. But that’s all right, I can wait. Keith’s getting restless, though. A few times he’s hinted, but I’ve put him off. I want to wait until he can enjoy himself too. Anyway, it shouldn’t be too much longer before we see some signs of recovery. In early May, we went together to Mayo for Keith’s three-month check up. Dr. Barrett was pleased with his progress, and was very reassuring. Dr. Barrett asked the standard doctor phrase: “Do you have any questions?” Keith sat taller in his chair. “Only one,” he said, squaring his shoulders. “When can I start having sex again?” “Whenever you feel up to it,” he replied. Almost as an after thought, he added, “And you do know you can experience an orgasm without having an erection don’t you?” Keith nodded confidently. “Sure.” After the appointment I was anxious to find a place we could be alone, so I could pump Keith for answers to the many questions I now had. “Hon, what made you ask Dr. Barrett about having sex?” I asked expectantly. “Has something happened to make you think you’re ready?” “Well no…the question I had wasn’t really whether it was all right for us to have sex, but when we could expect it to be possible.” “Well, then…how about this ‘orgasm without an erection’ idea? Did you know you could do that?” “I’ve never heard of such a thing, Gin. I don’t know where this guy’s coming from! You can’t have sex without getting an erection. That’s where your desire comes from. I don’t know why he said that. A few days after our appointment, Steven phoned and asked if we could arrange to take some time off and bring him a few things he’d left at home. Keith and I jumped at the chance. Journal Entry, May 5, 1995 I’ve made up my mind I’m going to try to end our abstinence on this trip. I’m going to test Dr. Barrett’s idea. I feel a little shy, though. I’ve never been very good about taking the lead role. I’ve

always let Keith do that. But now things are different. I have to do something. I’m thinking of it kind of like doing more nursing…the final stage of helping Keith get better. I’m sure once he realizes he can have orgasms again, his doubts about being sexually capable will disappear, and he’ll relax and feel good about himself. And once that happens, his erections will quickly follow. The only question is whether this will work. What if it doesn’t, I can’t think about that right now. I’ve got to do this and help Keith get back to normal. We spent our first night with my big brother Rodger and sisterin-law Sue. After dinner we played cards, all the while telling jokes and reminiscing happily together. Visiting like this, as we’d done so many times in the past, helped reinforce the feeling that life was going to return to normal. The next morning we left late, did some sightseeing, and stopped early in the afternoon. When we reached our room in the hotel, we unpacked our bags, feeling pleased with the whole trip so far. “Let’s take a quick swim before we change for dinner,” “I suggested, coming across my swimsuit. “Good idea. I sure could use the exercise,” Keith nodded. We played in the pool for a long time, teasing and seducing one another with our glances. When we finally returned to our room, we stripped from our bathing suits and immediately began hugging and kissing. “Let’s skip dinner,” I urged. Keith eagerly agreed, and we moved to the bed. I pushed Keith lightly back onto his pillow. “Just try to relax,” I coaxed. “Enjoy yourself, and don’t worry about anything.” As the minutes ticked by, I tried all the things that usually turned Keith on. Then, just when my determination began to wane and I was about ready to give up, I noticed a slight increase in Keith’s breathing. Encouraged, I continued. Yes, Keith was getting aroused — even if it was not physically noticeable. In a few minutes, Keith had an orgasm — his first in almost four months. “Thank you, thank you,” Keith uttered emotionally, squeezing me tight. “I was so afraid I’d lost all feeling — that I was sexually dead. But you’ve brought me back to life.” “So it felt the same even without an erection?” I asked curiously. “It was different, especially to begin with. But once I got excited, it was pretty much the same.” Although Keith was unable to achieve an erection, we were awed by the awakening of his body — and rejuvenated by the fact that we were once again enjoying sex. Our hope and optimism came rushing back. We both assumed that Keith’s ability to experience orgasm was an omen of what was to follow. Next month: “I’m Going to Give Myself a Shot Where?”

October 2011 — Western Kentucky — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 19

women’s health

A Survivor’s Story, A Twisted Path… By Teri Jones, A Breast Cancer Survivor

o one expects when they are 30 years old and a young mother of a 5 year old to get the dreaded diagnosis of breast cancer. Well that is exactly what happened the summer 1983. I worked as an outreach worker and assisted the physician and nurse in clinics at our local health department. I had felt a lump in my left breast and we were just keeping check on it believing it was just a gland that was infected. One morning while showering I ran my hand up underneath my breast and the lump felt huge. After having the nurse exam me, an appointment was made with my physician for follow up. Upon completing his exam, he suggested we get mammograms and take it from there. I was immediately sent to the local hospital for mammogram. When I arrived I was informed that the machine was not working and a repairman had been called in and was given an appointment for the following day. So the next day with the machine working properly they got a picture of the right breast, but then the machine malfunctioned again not getting a picture of the left breast with the lump. The radiologist called another hospital in the area and made an appointment for me to go and get the complete mammogram that same day. Finally, we had a good picture of the left breast; the radiologist said that the report would be sent to my physician within 48 hours and to call and schedule a follow up appointment. When I saw my physician later that week the report stated the size, location and structure of the lump, their interpretation of the mammogram was the lump was a benign tumor. So my physician aspirated the lump by taking a needle and inserting into the lump and withdrawing fluid. These specimens were sent to the pathology lab for testing, and I was given a one month follow up appointment. When I arrived for my follow up appointment there were no pathology reports in my chart, and the lab states they never received the specimens. Well so much for that, because the lump was back as big as before. So once again it was aspirated and then a pressure bandage applied on the area, thinking that the lump was just a fluid sac that had refilled. Again the specimens were sent to the pathology lab. On the third day I was having a reaction to the tape in the pressure bandage which prompted another trip to the doctor. When the bandage was removed the lump was there again--the same size as it was before. The pathology report from the second aspiration stated that the fluid showed dysphasia and a-typical cells. So an appointment was made with a surgeon to see about having it removed. The surgeon examined my breast, reviewed all the reports and sat up an appointment for the following week to have a lumpectomy. He also commented that he didn’t think it was cancer; I was just too young and showed no systems. That very afternoon I was in the back yard with our 5 year old son and I tripped over one you his toys, fell and broke my right wrist. Had to spend the night in the hospital to have my arm set Page 20 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Western Kentucky — October 2011

and a cast applied. I had never had a broken bone or surgery and now I was experiencing them both back to back. The lumpectomy was performed, the initial frozen section stated that the tumor was benign, no cancer. My surgeon told me it was the most “angry” looking tumor he had ever removed and he had removed hundreds. I spent the night in the hospital and was released home the following day thinking it was all finally over. Two days later, I received a phone call from the surgeon’s office stating that the final pathology report stated the tumor was malignant cancer and they had scheduled me for a mastectomy later that week. An appointment had to be made to have the cast on my right arm shortened, due to having to use that area of my arm for IV’s and vital signs. I entered the hospital the night prior to surgery (those were the good ole days) and my surgeon came in and visited with me. He sat on the side of my side and cried with me. He told me he was worried because the lump had been aspirated twice and the area exposed when the tumor was surgically removed. The following morning, I underwent a left modified radical mastectomy with thirteen lymph nodes also being removed. The initial frozen section from the 5 pound of breast tissue and lymph nodes showed no cancer cells and neither did the final pathology test. I received my first chemotherapy treatment while in the recovery room and additional chemo treatments each day for the next four days. I also had multiple scans and tests to see if the cancer was anywhere else. Every test came back negative. I recovered quickly from the surgery and was fitted with prosthesis and all was well. Within the next 10 months I was having severe neck pain and headaches. This was determined to be caused from the difference in my remaining breast weight and my prosthesis weight. I interviewed with a plastic surgeon to see about having breast reduction surgery on the right breast and reconstruction on the left. After an examination, it was determined that the best course of action would be to have a simple mastectomy of the right breast and bilateral reconstruction. This was scheduled with two surgeons performing the both surgeries at the same time. After a four hour surgery it was completed. Again five pounds of breast tissue was removed from the right side and some sample tissue from the left was all found to be cancer free. I continue to be cancer free to the present, 28 years later! Although the path I traveled during my diagnosis of breast cancer seemed to hit roadblocks at every junction, my experience now allows me to be of assistance to the ladies that come into our office—At Home Medical where I do post-mastectomy prosthesis and bra fittings for other breast cancer survivors. Some are facing mastectomies, others have had lumpectomies or mastectomies, and each lady has her own individual needs. I truly believe that God has brought me through all of these trials so that I can be a stronghold for them during their time of need. My name is Teri Jones and I can say “I’ve been there” and remember not knowing my next step or even who to talk to about it. I hope to help anyone—emotionally or physically experiencing breast cancer diagnosis. Even if you just want to talk or check out the options available following a mastectomy, give me a call or stop by At Home Medical. I would love to talk with you.

A GREAT Gift for any Occasion! A 90 Minute Hot Stone Massage with a Steamed Peppermint Foot Massage!

$65

(reg. price $85)

Call to schedule an appointment or purchase a gift certificate

270-415-3444

At Home Medical has board certified fitters and carries a full line of mastectomy products. Our fitting room provides a cheerful uplifting atmosphere where each lady can be fitted professionally and personal attention. Our office is located at 837 US Hwy 68 West in Draffenville and we are open 8:30 to 5:00 Monday through Friday. We also will set up appointments after our normal business hours. Give us a call at 252-0897 or 866-515-0897. October 2011 — Western Kentucky — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 21

obesity epidemic

More Kids Eating Calorie-Packed Take-Out Food Study found a third of food eaten now is cooked outside the home Submitted by Barb Linneman

he obesity epidemic is being fueled still further by a growing trend among kids to eat out and bring take-out food home, University of North Carolina researchers say. Such foods are high in sugar and calories, and their increasing popularity means youngsters are getting more calories than they need, the researchers noted. Since 1994, this trend has been growing rapidly and reflects the availability of fast food restaurants and foods prepared in supermarkets and other food stores, the researchers say. In fact, calories eaten away from home increased from 23.4 percent to 33.9 percent between 1977 and 2006. “We found that kids eat a relatively maintained level of calories at home, but in addition kids also eat an increasing number of calories outside the home,” said study author Jennifer Poti, from the university’s Gillings School of Global Public Health. “Eating outside the home is actually fueling the increased energy intake for kids.” Poti said much of the food children eat outside the home comes from prepared meals sold in supermarkets and convenience stores, as well as fast food restaurants. Much of the fast food children eat is actually consumed at home, Poti said. In 2006, almost half of the fast foods children ate were eaten at home, she noted. Although the reasons for this increase in eating prepared meals isn’t known, Poti speculates it’s a combination of factors including convenience, cost and time pressures. This trend is adding to the obesity epidemic, Poti said. “Parents need to be interested in both the food source and location where it is eaten, which both significantly influence energy intake,” she said. The report is published in the August issue of the Journal of the American Dietetic Association. For the study, Poti’s team collected data on 29,217 children aged 2 to 18. They had taken part in either Nationwide Food Consumption Survey, the Continuing Survey of Food Intakes by Individuals or one of another two nationally representative surveys of food intake in the United States. These surveys collected data at different times between 1977 to 2006, the study noted. The researchers found that from 1977 to 2006 the number of calories children got from foods eaten away from home increased significantly. In fact, the percentage of calories children got from fast food was greater than those they got at school. Samantha Heller, a dietitian, nutritionist, exercise physiologist and clinical nutrition coordinator at the Center for Cancer Care at Griffin Hospital in Derby, Conn., said that “in our fast-paced, time-challenged world, parents are convinced that it is easier and less expensive to eat take-out, fast food and in restaurants.” Unfortunately, these foods are usually high in sodium, fat, sugar and calories, and low in healthy nutrients, she said. “We cannot control where these eateries are located or how they prepare their foods, but Page 22 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Western Kentucky — October 2011

“More reliance on foods prepared outside the home has led to higher calorie intakes. Eating foods prepared outside of the home has become the norm, not the exception.” we can decide to cook more at home, which will ultimately save money and help keep our families healthy,” Heller said. Although it appears a take-out meal for $4.99 is a great deal, one would actually save money by going to the store buying chicken breasts, vegetables, whole grain pasta, bread and sauce. “You would have a healthy dinner and leftovers for tomorrow’s lunch and probably enough left to reinvent dinner by using the remaining ingredients in a salad, frittata or burrito,” she added. “For less than $30, you can buy enough food for several meals including chicken breast, mushrooms, broccoli, pasta, lettuce, bread, eggs, tomato sauce and salad dressing,” Heller said. “A family of four can spend that much easily for just one meal each for take-out and fast food. Planning the week’s meals ahead will make home cooking easier, faster, and cost-efficient. More importantly, research suggests that family meals enhance the health and well-being of children on many levels,” she said. “This study is a bit of a wake-up call as to where excess calories are sneaking into children’s diets,” said Lona Sandon, a spokeswoman with the American Dietetic Association. “More reliance on foods prepared outside the home has led to higher calorie intakes. Eating foods prepared outside of the home has become the norm, not the exception. This makes it more critical to make healthy choices when choosing foods made away from home.” “Also, this study shows that we cannot continue to blame the problem on foods served in the school. Schools have worked hard to change the food environment and offer more healthful choices,” Sandon added. “Paying attention to where and what children are eating outside of the school environment is just as important.” Pediatric Education Dietitian Services specializes in developing a customized eating plan to address your child’s specific nutritional needs. For more information or to schedule a personal consultation, please contact Barb Linneman, MS, RD, LD at 636-227-7337. You can also visit our website at www.pedsinc.com. By Steven Reinberg, HealthDay Reporter

healthy breathing

Tips To Keep Your Lungs In Shape W

hen your lungs are out of shape, your whole body suffers. Simple daily activities like walking can be difficult. And certain lung diseases, such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), can gradually reduce lung capacity. Here are some tips to deal with or help prevent the most common types of lung ailments.

Photo courtesy of: (c) michaeljung - Fotolia.com

Stop Smoking Smoking harms nearly every organ of the body and causes many diseases. COPD — the third leading cause of death in the United States — occurs predominately in cigarette smokers. All smokers should speak with their doctors to discuss smoking cessation options as soon as possible. “It is imperative that all individuals with COPD stop smoking to prevent progression of the disease,” said Dr. Virginia Hood, Doctors have new guidelines for treating a chronic breathing problem. president of the American College of Physicians (ACP), a national orlevels, physicians may prescribe continuous oxygen therapy. In addiganization of internal medicine physicians. “Of course, smokers without tion, pulmonary rehabilitation, which typically includes an exercise regiCOPD should quit not only to decrease the risk of COPD, but also the men as an important component, is also helpful. For more information, risk of other serious potential complications of smoking, including lung visit www.acponline.org. cancer, cardiovascular disease and chronic kidney disease. It’s never too late to stop, and if you don’t smoke, don’t start.” Get Exercise For healthy lungs, try to get 30 minutes of cardiovascular exercise Get Checked at least three times weekly. If that’s too much to start, begin slowly by Individuals with coughing (with or without phlegm), wheezing or alternating a few minutes of walking and running. Also, breathe deeply shortness of breath that lasts more than two weeks should see a docas you exercise. Many times, people working out take short shallow tor, such as a pulmonologist, trained to diagnose respiratory illnesses. breaths which are good for getting you oxygen, but not for building lung Physicians now have a new guideline to diagnose and manage COPD capacity. to help them prevent and treat exacerbations, reduce hospitalizations and deaths, and improve patient quality of life. The new guideline was Know Your Air Quality developed by the ACP in collaboration with the American College of People with breathing problems should check the air quality in their Chest Physicians, the American Thoracic Society, and the European area each day and take proper precautions. If this information is not Respiratory Society. available in your local weather report, visit the Environmental Protection If individuals have respiratory symptoms, the new guideline recomAgency’s air quality site at www.airnow.gov. mends that physicians use a breathing test called spirometry to make a diagnosis of airflow obstruction. Patients may be treated with medicaWith healthy lungs, there’s a whole world to explore. tions that help relax the airways of the lungs and drugs that decrease inflammation. For patients with COPD who have very low blood oxygen October 2011 — Western Kentucky — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 23

healthcare interns

Physical Therapy:

A Student’s Perspective By Ashley Shrum, Physical Therapy Student at Saint Louis University

Ashley working on fellow Physical Therapy student Page 24 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Western Kentucky — October 2011

ost if not all Physical Therapy programs have made the transition from a Master’s degree to a Doctorate program. School for a Physical Therapist now ranges anywhere from 6 to 8 years in total depending on where one chooses to attend graduate school. A significant part of the physical therapy educational process of physical therapy occurs in on-the-job training at outpatient clinics, hospitals, and nursing homes. This training is referred to as a clinical rotation but would be recognized by the generic term “internship.” During this internship, students are paired with a Physical Therapist who serves as the student’s mentor, bestowing technical knowledge as well as the experience they have gained during their time in the profession. Students who are exposed to the clinical setting are given the great opportunity to further their success in the field of Physical Therapy. Being in a clinic is much different than sitting in classroom learning from a text book. The patients are real and bring forth their own unique set of challenges that cannot always be replicated in a classroom setting. I believe that a student clinician’s interaction with patients is a vital part of their future in the Physical Therapy profession. It allows a chance to build interpersonal skills such as interviewing patients, determining the source of their pain, and helping provide education. During their time in the clinic, the student will likely face many challenges. Their self introduction to the patient is the first challenge, and it sets the stage for the rest of the treatment. A student’s introduction is critical to forming the patient-therapist relationship. As a student physical therapist, introducing yourself to a patient is the first initial contact that you have with them. It is the very beginning of your professional relationship. The patient will usually respond to a student in one of two ways: either they will be extremely nervous, or they will treat you like they would anyone else. Those few seconds define how hard you’ll have to work to gain the other persons trust in your knowledge and skills as a student clinician. If the patient is nervous about working with a stu-

weight management dent, it may mean that you as a student therapist have to work harder, use different education techniques, and have an instructor present for longer periods of time. Just the opposite can happen, as well. The patient may be willing to work with you immediately and trust your abilities (until you give them a reason not to). Either way, the student is always trying to prove themselves to the patient and to maintain a good trusting relationship. Building a trusting relationship with a patient takes time but it is not very hard because, unlike most health care professions, the therapists actually spend time with the patients! This allows the therapists to get to know the patients very well. As a Physical Therapy student, getting to know each patient is the most appealing yet nerve racking part of the job. The main reason that many students want to become a Physical Therapist is to care for others. The knowledge that you are helping a person return to their normal lives makes being a Physical Therapist a rewarding profession. Every day that a student is in the clinic, they get the opportunity to meet and work with many new, unique people who bring forth a one of a kind experience. Each patient who agrees to work with a student is helping to expand that student’s knowledge and professional abilities. It is very important for patients to understand that their feedback is crucial to the student’s success. If something doesn’t feel the same as when the instructor/licensed therapist performed it, let the student know. If an exercise hurt during the last treatment, let the student know. Being in the clinic working alongside a licensed physical therapist is a learning experience for the student. In order for the student to be able to help others in the future, they need experience. Therefore, the more feedback you can give the student, the better off they are in the future. Always remember, though: no one likes to be reprimanded or put down constantly, so don’t forget to include some positive feedback as well. Working in the clinical setting can be an exciting but difficult time for physical therapy students. Developing a good rapport with patients is essential to the student’s learning experience. Without a strong bond with the patients, it is nearly impossible for a physical therapy student to be one-hundred percent confident that they are doing what is best for the patient. Communication and good listening skills are mastered along with the Physical Therapy techniques learned in school. Learning how to connect with a patient is one of the most important things that is gained during a physical therapist’s time as a student clinician. Patients who are working with a student therapist should keep in mind that their feedback is greatly appreciated. In conclusion, I would like to give a personal thank you to all of the patients who have ever worked with students for bettering the future of the health care world.

Don Thomas

Attorney At L aw

Personal Injury, Wrongful Death, Criminal Law 1101 Poplar Street Benton KY 42025 270-527-2425 270-527-2405 (fax) www.donthomaslawoffice.com

What Will You Gain From Losing? By Adrianna Troutman PT, DPT; Heartland Rehabilitation Services

eing overweight in today’s society is becoming more common place. We don’t recognize who is truly overweight and who is of healthy weight. People who are overweight are more susceptible to type II diabetes, gallbladder disease, coronary heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and osteoarthritis to name a few. Decreasing your weight will lower your body mass index (someone’s weight relative to their height) which reduces risk for disease. Being proactive is the key. Someone who is overweight but says they are healthy really does not realize that usually it is only a matter of time before they develop health issues directly related to their weight. Many patients with osteoarthritis of the knees, hips, and back also have major medical problems along with being overweight. A medical setting such as a physical therapy clinic is the perfect place to address weight and orthopedic problems at the same time and where patients have access to exercise equipment. Just losing 5-10% of their current weight can help reduce their pain level related to joint pain. Here at Heartland Rehabilitation we focus on treating the whole person not just the back or knee problem. If a patient along with their doctor believe a medical guided weight loss program is indicated along with their orthopedic problem then this program is for you. The Healthy Weight Management Program is designed for people to achieve a healthy weight to reduce their risk for disease. Participants are encouraged to lose 5%-10% of their current body weight. They are also expected to go through behavioral management techniques and keep food logs to encourage healthy eating. They receive 2-3 sessions per week with a licensed therapist to guide their exercise regimen and go over other aspects of the plan. This program can be covered by most insurance companies. To find out more about this program please contact our clinic. You only have your health to gain from losing! For more information please contact the Paducah location, 4813 Alben Barkley Drive at 270-534-7278 or the Murray location, 208 S. 6th Street at 270-759-9500.

October 2011 — Western Kentucky — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 25

paducah lifeline

Helping People Through Life Submitted By Paducah Lifeline Ministries

o many people in our community are struggling with drug and alcohol addictions and don’t know where to turn. Paducah Lifeline Ministries offers help to people struggling with these addictions, but they have to be sick and tired of being sick and tired. Paducah Lifeline Ministries for men and Ladies Living Free for women is faith based and it requires living six months on site. So many people don’t know how to break the cycle. The first step is filling out an application and you can go to our website, www.paducahlifelineministries.com to find both men and women applications. That doesn’t mean you will be accepted. Far more applications are received each quarter than there is bed availability. New groups are taken once a quarter. The first 3 months of their stay, the clients learn what God’s word says about how they are to live their lives drug free through classes that also teach them how to deal with anger, forgiveness, and unhealthy relationships. The last 3 months, they find jobs and work during the day and have a few classes in the evening. Once they have completed their six months, the clients are required to come back on site once a week for aftercare classes, which is a healthy support group that walks with them through trials and everyday life. Paducah Lifeline is supported through donations from churches, businesses, and individuals. Also each client pays an initial intake fee and $200 rent the last three months once they are employed. To contribute, or for more information, you can contact Terrye Peeler, Executive Director, at 270-994-5089.Donations may be sent to Paducah Lifeline Ministries, P.O. Box 7652, Paducah, KY 42002.

Page 26 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Western Kentucky — October 2011

The Regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Leader in Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy Since 1994 1665 Oak Park, Boulevard Calvert City, Kentucky 42029

270-395-5588