Aug 2015 Phoenix Healthy Cells Magazine by Healthy Cells Magazine Valley of the Sun

VALLEY OF THE SUN

east valley area

Promoting Healthier Living in Your Community • Physical • Emotional

AUGUST 2015

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HealthyCells

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M A G A Z I N E

• Nutritional

PROSTATE CANCER AWARENESS

Is NOT Treating Prostate Cancer a Possibility?

Breast Feeding Benefits Arguments, It Isn’t Always About Winning Health Scams

I n - H o m e

S e n i o r

C a r e

S e r v i c e s

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giving hope

Providing Hope, Support, and Friendship

Sarah Ellery

By Sarah Ellery, Founder, My Hope Bag

y Hope Bag is a non-profit 501(c)(3) that was started in 2011, a year after my breast cancer diagnose. Although I was well cared for by medical professionals, I felt alone in many ways and yearned for a sense of hope and connection, to know I wasn’t alone battling breast cancer. My Hope Bag now provides that support, friendship, and hope to women diagnosed with breast cancer. Two “Hope Bag” recipients share their journey of hope:

Debbie McGuinness In April 2014, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. I had no idea what this [was] going to involve and where this journey was going to take me. I just knew I was being told I would be having a double mastectomy with reconstruction, followed by chemo and radiation. After my surgery, I was at an appointment with my plastic surgeon for follow-up. My mom picked up a postcard for “My Hope Bag” and suggested I contact them. After my mom and sister flew back home to Oregon, I was feeling sad and lonely. [That’s] when I saw the card sitting by my computer and decided to go online and fill out the form and see what they offered. I received an email from Sarah. She was so pleasant and wanted to come to my house personally to deliver a bag with

items that would be useful during my chemo. I was so excited and touched that she would personally come all the way out to where I lived to see me! Sarah and Beckie came to my house on a Saturday afternoon. They talked about what I could expect and they let me talk about my surgery and the upcoming chemo. They let me cry without judgment or telling me I was being silly. They brought me a pink bag that had so many great items that I could take to chemo and use at home to help me get through the treatments. A couple of my favorite things were the handmade quilt and the back-scratcher! I still use them and smile because I know they were selected to bring me comfort during this stressful and emotional time. They also gave me resources for help during the coming months and connected me to other women, who had already gone through treatments, and others who would be going through treatments the same time as me. They let me know that there was love and support out there and [that] I would not be alone on this journey. These two beautiful women helped me more that day than they know. I was so touched and happy to meet them. They were my angels in a time when I needed them most. They gave me strength and knowledge. I am hopeful that very soon I will be able to reach out through them and help others as they helped me that day! Meghan Ritschel First, let me start by saying cancer tried to take away my spirit. With the help of “My Hope Bag” (Hope Sisters), I was able to see a light. The gals who visited me had been through their own breast cancer journey. They knew exactly what to say, what to bring, and were able to answer the “is this normal” questions. I want to someday pay it forward and help “My Hope Bag” by contributing my time. I, too, would love to deliver “HOPE” to women going through their breast cancer journey. It is so important to keep that HOPE while going through something like cancer. Thank you HOPE sisters, for everything you have done to help me through my journey! To donate, volunteer, or learn more about My Hope Bag, visit www.MyHopeBag.org or email info@myhopebag.org. To stay up-todate on needs and events, follow us at facebook.com/myhopebag. Photos courtesy of My Hope Bag

August 2015 — East Valley — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 3

AUGUST

2015 Volume 3, Issue 8

Giving Hope: Providing Hope, Support, and Friendship

Physical: What is Human Papillomavirus (HPV)?

This Month’s Cover Story:

Prostate Cancer Awareness

Is NOT Treating Prostate Cancer a Possibility? page 16 Cover photo credit: Patrick Heagney/iStock

Nutritional: Breastfeeding Benefits

Emotional: When it’s Time for Memory Care

Healthy Feet: Common Nail Disorders and Treatments

Treatment & Self Care: Healthy Beauty – Inside and Out

In The Community: Back-to-School Clothing Drive

Family Love: Joy of Being a Grandma

Protect Your Health: What You Need to Know About Adult Vaccines

Misleading Healthcare: Beware of Health Scams

Effective Conversation: Arguments – It Isn’t Always About Winning

Life Care Planning: How to Have “The Talk” About Advanced Directives

Power Of Touch: Integrated Massage for Pain Relief

For advertising information, contact Monica Tegg, owner, Valley of the Sun Edition Cell: 480-204-3090 • Fax: 309-691-2187 PO Box 6233, Chandler, AZ 85246 monica@healthycellsmagazine.com Healthy Cells Magazine® is a division of: 1327 E. Kelly Ave., Peoria Heights, IL 61616 • 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 East Valley. 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 health care 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 East Valley, including medical facilities and other waiting rooms. Healthy Cells Magazine® welcomes contributions pertaining to healthier living in the East Valley area. Limelight Communications, Inc. assumes no responsibility for their publication or return. Solicitations for articles shall pertain to physical, emotional, and nutritional health only.

letter from the owner

ike most women, I’ve had many close girlfriends over the years — most of them were a very important part of my life at the time and I would have been lost without their friendship. I think about calling them, but seldom find time or the right moment to do so. Well, August 1st is National Girlfriend Day, so I’m using this day as just the right time to reach out to those special women in my life that were very close at one time but for one reason or another we haven’t stayed in touch as much as I’d like. We all have busy lives, but I encourage you to use National Girlfriend Day as an opportunity to contact your girlfriends and let them know just how much they mean to you. The community news page this month features the Assistance League of East Valley — a non profit organization that provides many services to children in need and victimized women in our community. Read more about the many ways they provide services in our community and how you can contribute or volunteer. Have you signed up for a free subscription to Healthy Cells Magazine? Sign up by August 31, 2015 and be entered to win a free one hour massage from Structura Body Therapies. Go to www.healthycellsmagazine.com/subscribe, select Valley of the Sun edition and fill in your name and email address. Once signed up, you will receive an email each time the new monthly edition is uploaded to our website. As we wrap up our last month of summer, watch out for the kids as they return to school. Sincerely,

C Monica Tegg/Owner, Healthy Cells Magazine®, East Valley Monica@healthycellsmagazine.com, www.healthycellsmagazine.com/phx, 480-204-3090, #healthycellsAZ, Facebook.com/healthycellsmagazine.phx

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physical

What is Human Papillomavirus (HPV)? Submitted by iWomen’s Health Care

uman papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the United States. Some health effects caused by HPV can be prevented with vaccines.

What is HPV? HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI). HPV is a different virus than HIV and HSV (herpes). HPV is so common that nearly all sexually active men and women get it at some point in their lives. There are many different types of HPV. Some types can cause health problems including genital warts and cancers. But there are vaccines that can stop these health problems from happening. How is HPV spread? You can get HPV by having oral, vaginal, or anal sex with someone who has the virus. It is most commonly spread during vaginal or anal sex. HPV can be passed even when an infected person has no signs or symptoms. Anyone who is sexually active can get HPV, even if you have had sex with only one person. You also can develop symptoms years after you have sex with someone who is infected making it hard to know when you first became infected. Does HPV cause health problems? In most cases, HPV goes away on its own and does not cause any health problems. But when HPV does not go away, it can cause health problems like genital warts and cancer. Genital warts usually appear as a small bump or group of bumps in the genital area. They can be small or large, raised or flat, or shaped like a cauliflower. A healthcare provider can usually diagnose warts by looking at the genital area. Page 6 — Healthy Cells Magazine — East Valley — August 2015

Does HPV cause cancer? HPV can cause cervical and other cancers including cancer of the vulva, vagina, penis, or anus. It can also cause cancer in the back of the throat, including the base of the tongue and tonsils (called oropharyngeal cancer). Cancer often takes years, even decades, to develop after a person gets HPV. The types of HPV that can cause genital warts are not the same as the types of HPV that can cause cancers. There is no way to know which people who have HPV will develop cancer or other health problems. People with weak immune systems may be less able to fight off HPV and more likely to develop health problems from it — this includes people with HIV/AIDS. How can I avoid HPV and the health problems it can cause? You can do several things to lower your chances of getting HPV. • Get vaccinated. HPV vaccines are safe and effective. They can protect males and females against diseases (including cancers) caused by HPV when given in the recommended age groups (see “Who should get vaccinated?” below). HPV vaccines are given in three shots over six months; it is important to get all three doses. • Get screened for cervical cancer. Routine screening for women aged 21 to 65 years old can prevent cervical cancer. • Use latex condoms the right way every time you have sex. This can lower your chances of getting HPV. But HPV can infect areas that are not covered by a condom — so condoms may not give full protection against getting HPV. • Be in a mutually monogamous relationship — or have sex only with someone who only has sex with you.

Who should get vaccinated? All boys and girls ages 11 or 12 years should get vaccinated. Catch-up vaccines are recommended for males through age 21 and for females through age 26, if they did not get vaccinated when they were younger. The vaccine is also recommended for gay and bisexual men through age 26. It is also recommended for men and women with compromised immune systems (including people living with HIV/AIDS) through age 26, if they did not get fully vaccinated when they were younger. How do I know if I have HPV? There is no test to find out a person’s “HPV status.” Also, there is no approved HPV test to find HPV in the mouth or throat. There are HPV tests that can be used to screen for cervical cancer. These tests are recommended for screening only in women aged 30 years and older. They are not recommended to screen men, adolescents, or women under the age of 30 years. Most people with HPV do not know they are infected and never develop symptoms or health problems from it. Some people find out they have HPV when they get genital warts. Women may find out they have HPV when they get an abnormal Pap test result (during cervical cancer screening). Others may only find out once they’ve developed more serious problems from HPV, such as cancers. How common is HPV and the health problems caused by HPV? HPV (the virus): About 79 million Americans are currently infected with HPV. About 14 million people become newly infected each year. HPV is so common that most sexually active men and women

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will get at least one type of HPV at some point in their lives. Health problems related to HPV include genital warts and cervical cancer. • Genital warts: About 360,000 people in the United States get genital warts each year. • Cervical cancer: More than 11,000 women in the United States get cervical cancer each year. There are other conditions and cancers caused by HPV that occur in persons living in the United States. I’m pregnant. Will having HPV affect my pregnancy? There is no specific treatment for HPV when pregnant and HPV does not cross over to the baby. When HPV is diagnosed during pregnancy it is likely treatment will resume after delivery and not during pregnancy. Can I be treated for HPV or health problems caused by HPV? There is no treatment for the virus itself; however, there are treatments for the health problems HPV can cause. It’s important to have regular well woman exams for early detection of HPV and other health conditions. For information or to schedule a consultation, contact iWomen’s Health Care: call 480.855.5900, email: info@iwomenshealthcare. com or visit www.iwomenshealthcare.com. iWomen’s Health Care is a boutique style practice that believes in partnering with patients for care. “Your care, your comfort, our expertise!” Sources upon request. Photo credit: xrender/iStock

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nutritional

Breastfeeding Benefits By Katie Stage, ND, RH (AHG), Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine

ugust is National Breastfeeding Month, and a great time to review the benefits of lactation. Breast milk is one of the most important gifts we can give our children, and it offers numerous benefits to the lactating mother, as well. Breast milk is uniquely adapted for the needs of the child. The nutrients and fat content of breast milk actually change based on the age of the child, length of time spent nursing, and frequency of nursing. This type of individualized nutrition is impossible to achieve with formula. Breast milk is an excellent delivery system of immune factors. Rich in immunoglobulin IgA, white blood cells, and probiotics, it helps protect the child from disease and supports the robust development of the child’s immune system. Studies show that breastfed babies have less respiratory disease, diarrhea, eczema, allergies, ear infections, obesity, dental cavities, and incidence of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome). These health benefits continue through to adulthood, and have a financial implication as well: Page 8 — Healthy Cells Magazine — East Valley — August 2015

Katie Stage, ND, RH (AHG)

in one study, a group of formula-fed infants had $68,000 in health care costs during a six-month period, while an equal number of nursing babies had only $4,000 of similar expenses. Finally, breastfeeding improves bonding between the child and mother. It has been suggested that the bond between a breastfeeding mother and child is stronger than any other bond among humans. The act of breastfeeding produces oxytocin, the love hormone, which is transmitted to both mother and child. This causes a relaxed, happy state of mind that facilitates sleep, so precious in the early days of parenting. It has also been shown to protect both the child and mother from mood disturbances, including depression. Other benefits to the lactating mother are numerous. First, breastfeeding after delivery promotes the uterus to shrink back to its normal size, decreasing postpartum bleeding and discomfort. It also facilitates weight loss. Longer-term benefits include a decreased risk of breast, uterine, and ovarian cancer and a decreased incidence of osteo-

porosis later in life. Finally, breastfeeding is free. The average cost of formula is $1,733.75 per year. Some women have difficulty breastfeeding, and it is important to note that there are many ways to support them. Lactation consultants are specialists in breastfeeding, and can help moms find comfortable ways to hold their child while nursing, help establish a good latch onto the breast, and provide other valuable support and resources. Most local hospitals offer lactation consultants as a postpartum service, but you may need to request this service. The United States Lactation Consultant Association website (https://uslca.org/ resources). Other types of support recommended by naturopathic physicians, midwives, and other holistic practitioners may include increasing water intake, treatments and techniques to decrease stress, and herbs, such as fenugreek, which can safely and effectively promote lactation. Dr. Katie Stage is a licensed naturopathic physician and registered herbalist who practices general family medicine, with a particular interest in women’s health and pediatrics. A graduate of Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine, she practices at Southwest Naturopathic Medical Center (www.medcenter.scnm.edu). Photo credit: Wavebreak/iStock, RuslanDashinsky/iStock

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August 2015 — East Valley — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 9

emotional

When it’s Time for Memory Care

Leslie A. Davis, CDP

By Leslie A. Davis, CDP, The Summit at Sunland Springs

ill you know when it’s time to move your loved one to a Memory Care community? Most people would say no to that question and would admit to having great difficulty in coming to that conclusion. It’s easy for us to be in denial of just how bad things have gotten and we’ll make up a plethora of reasons to excuse abnormal behavior. (And yes, urinating in the hallway instead of in the toilet is abnormal behavior.) Spouses are notorious for “covering” for their partners and this can really blindside other family members when they do visit. They’re shocked by the deterioration that has taken place with Mom, but had no idea because Dad answered for her, did things for her and all around covered for her. There is so much guilt that goes hand in hand with Alzheimer’s/ dementia. This is a guilt ridden disease due to the loss of memPage 10 — Healthy Cells Magazine — East Valley — August 2015

ory and ability to reason and make good choices for themselves. We, the loved one’s they’ve entrusted their wellbeing to, are now responsible to make those critical decisions for them. Even when there have been conversations about future options and next steps, family members can feel like they are left to make critical decisions for them on their own. Dementia can be like a roller coaster – some days go relatively well and then some days are a living hell. So after a difficult stint, we may be sure in our decision to move our spouse to a community, but then when they have a few days or weeks of doing well, we may begin to second guess ourselves and our decision. This will drive you crazy! I always say to make your decision based on the worst day, not the best day. The initial move-in day is usually the toughest part of the transition, for a multitude of reasons. In my nine years of moving

Socks -AndUnderwear Drive For Kids Donations Are Welcome

residents into Memory Care settings, I’ve come to learn some basics that I hope will enlighten and encourage anyone facing this difficult decision. Here are a few helpful tips to help make the transition from home to a Community as smooth as possible: • S et up a time to have a one-on-one conversation with the Executive Director/Administrator to go over the Resident Handbook and the Residency Agreement. Be familiar with each page so there are no surprises. (Very few people read this and I know it can help keep expectations realistic and avoid any unnecessary disappointments in the future.) • S et up a time to meet one-on-one with the Head Nurse or Health Services Director. Please mention all those little things that might help the staff give the best possible care to your loved one. Example: “Dad will put the pills you give him in his cheek and spit them out after you leave.” Or “Mom loves her white Teddy Bear and it really calms her down when she’s anxious.” • T ake the time to fill out all the Move-in paperwork. It may be time consuming and even redundant at times, but the more you can share with us about your loved one, the faster we’ll get a good “read” on their likes/dislikes and this will help us to give the best care. • C heck the Medication List that the Doctor gives the Community for your loved one. The Community can only give your loved one what is on the list their PCP signs, so if you want them to take something, make sure to tell your PCP. (Vitamins, Laxatives, Supplements, Visine, Vicks rub, etc.) Placing your loved one in a Memory Care community is a difficult decision, but the peace of mind that comes with knowing they are safe and have someone to assist and care for them at all times of the day and night, is reassuring and allows family to focus on making the most of time spent with a loved one. The Summit at Sunland Springs is designed to make a meaningful difference in the lives of its residents. Call today for your tour! Phone: 480-378-0015, email: Sales@TheSummitAZ.com. Please visit www.TheSummitAZ.com for more information. They are located at 2415 S Signal Butte Road, Mesa, AZ 85209.

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Photo credit: Squaredpixels/iStock, Pamela Moore/iStock August 2015 — East Valley — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 11

healthy feet

Common Nail Disorders and Treatments By Jason C. Harrill, DPM, FACFAOM, Desert Foot and Ankle, PC

s sandal season is upon us, I find many people asking about problems with their toenails. Nail problems are commonly caused by improper trimming, minor injuries, or repetitive micro trauma. Some problems can even be congenital. Here are a few toenail disorders commonly seen in a podiatric practice and ways of treating them.

Ingrown toenail An ingrown toenail can be a very painful condition that is the result of the toenail growing into the skin that surrounds it. Most often it occurs at the edge of the great toe. It can be congenital, caused by blunt trauma that changes the toenail contour or created from improper nail trimming. Deformities such as a bunion can cause the great toe to curve into the second toe causing increased pressure. High heel Page 12 — Healthy Cells Magazine — East Valley — August 2015

or narrow and improperly fit shoes can also create pressure on the toenail plate causing it to grow into the skin. This can lead to an infection, inflammation, or a more serious condition involving the underlying bone. Treatment for an ingrown toenail can ease the pain by removing the offending portion of the toenail plate. If the toenail is significantly deformed, it may need to be removed entirely. At times, a podiatric physician will remove the toenail plate permanently by removing the matrix, which is the small white portion at the base of the nail plate, which is where the nail originates. Fungal Infection Fungus in the toenail plate is the same type of fungus that causes athletes foot and it loves warm, moist, dark environments. The fungus makes the toenail very thick and yellow or brownish and

can grow foul-smelling moist debris beneath it, making it somewhat painful. Most fungal toenail infections are harmless until they get into the skin through a minor cut or other injury or irritation between the toes. Treatment is best begun early and can be confirmed with a culture. Topical treatment can include home remedies such as tea tree oil or the use of Vick’s VapoRub, which has eucalyptus oil that can kill the fungus if used repetitively. There are over-the-counter topical medications that are advertised on television. These can be effective if utilized daily for at least three months. There are two newer prescription only medications which are very effective, but require daily application for up to 48 weeks. Oral medications for toenail fungus are not without potential side effect. It is recommended that a blood draw and laboratory testing to confirm presence of fungus in the toenail plate be done prior to taking the oral medication daily for three months. Not all thickened nails have toenail fungus. They can be thickened and crumbling from other conditions such as diabetes, psoriasis or a vascular disease, which is why a culture may be done. Blood Beneath a Toenail A black or blue toenail plate is usually caused from sudden or repetitive injury to a toe. This can occur during sporting activities that involve running or stopping quickly. Hiking and longdistance running are also

commonly associated with blood beneath the toenail plate called a hematoma. If your toe is black and blue and not injured, you should seek medical help immediately as this could indicate a worse problem such as a blood clot or problem with circulation. Hematoma beneath a toenail may indicate an underlying fractured bone, especially if a significant mechanism of injury has occurred, such as dropping a heavy object on the foot. Treatment of a hematoma can be done by creating a small hole in the toenail plate and releasing the blood and pressure beneath in the early stages. If several days to weeks have passed and it is still painful, toenail removal may be indicated. At times, a laceration can be present in the toenail bed that requires surgical repair. Toenail plates will usually regrow within one year. Many toenail problems can be prevented by wearing the right shoes and trimming your toenails properly. If you have diabetes, it is best to have at least annual visits with a podiatrist. Wearing the right shoes and having them appropriately sized is important for proper foot health. If you have any questions regarding the overall health of your feet, it is best to consult with a board certified, podiatric physician. For more information about foot and toenail issues, contact Desert Foot and Ankle, PC, located at 1520 South Dobson Road, #307, in Mesa, AZ 85202. They can be reached at 480-844-8218 or visit their website at www.desertfootandankle.com. Photo credit: AlexRaths/iStock, Adam88xx/iStock, energyy/iStock, johnnydao/iStock

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August 2015 — East Valley — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 13

treatment & self care

Healthy Beauty – Inside and Out Submitted by Derma Health

e have to love the sun since we live in Arizona, right? Arizona ranks at the top as one of the sunniest states having on average 11 hours of sunlight each day. The sun provides us with many benefits, but can cause us all harm if we don’t protect ourselves. We get vitamin D from the sun, which helps diminish depression and leaves us feeling happy. But we do not have to love the effects of sun damage. Living in the Valley of the Sun can definitely age us. Even with regular use of sunscreen, sun exposure can causes wrinkles, freckles, skin discoloration, and worse yet, skin cancer. Over two million people are diagnosed with skin cancer each year (Balk, 2011). We are here to tell you that you don’t have to be one of these statistics – there’s hope for those of us who want to keep our skin healthy and portray a youthful appearance, but we have to take care of ourselves. Some effects of sun damage are reversible and there are many services available to help us Page 14 — Healthy Cells Magazine — East Valley — August 2015

achieve the goal of looking young and repair destruction from the sun. Maintaining an ageless look will help us feel young and confident. One way to maintain our youthful glow is to trust those that specialize in skin. Med spas are able to treat these pesky wrinkles, age spots, and skin tags. Truth be known, there are ways to maintain our vigorous looking skin, while living in the Arizona desert. Some skin treatments available to assist with reversing the sun damage are as follows: • M icrogenesis, which is a combination of microdermabrasion and laser treatment • Botox ®, reduces wrinkles • Juvederm ®, a gel filler to smooth and remove wrinkles • Microneedling, removes scars, lines, wrinkles, and stretch marks • Active FX™ Resurfacing, improves the overall appearance of the skin • 3D Skin Rejuvenation™ turns back time by reversing the signs of aging

“There’s hope for those of us who want to keep our skin healthy and portray a youthful appearance, but we have to take care of ourselves.” Liposuction, laser hair removal, and chemical peels are a few other services to improve our appearance and give us a better self-image. Beauty is not only skin deep. Improving beauty on the surface can have its immediate rewards, but addressing our body’s health on the inside is just as important, if not more. A med spa can provide a holistic approach to treatment and self-care, by offering healthy ways to address our appearance, which can start from working within. It’s no secret that med spas care about their patients and want them to look good on the outside, but great med spas want patients to feel good and stay healthy inside. Some med spas offer health and wellness services like nutritional counseling,

hormone balancing, and treatment for low energy. Look for a spa that also offer services like allergy assistance, acne treatment, food planning, weight loss, and cellulite treatment. Innovative med spas want you to be the best version of you, partnering with you to support your entire beauty journey! It’s not just about looks, but how you feel and staying healthy, both inside and out. It’s important that we take care of our skin in this Arizona sun. Self-care is not just about aesthetics; reducing the appearance of age and sun damage, it’s taking care of your health! Self-care is self-preservation. There are so many options to pamper ourselves in order to maintain our optimal physical and emotional health and a med spa is one way to meet so many of your needs. Take care of yourself inside and out, because you are worth it. At Derma Health, we understand you have questions… and we have the answers. Get a complimentary consultation at one of the five valley Derma Health locations! With 10 years in business, over 30,000 patients have trusted the doctors at Derma Health. Our experts are here to answer your questions, come by for a tour and ultimately get a “feel” for our place. It’s your money, your skin, your body, and your future. Don’t you want to look and feel great — inside and out? Start your beauty transformation today, call 602-903-3011 or visit www.dhiskin.com/health. About the author: Chante Pantila, MC, DBH, EMDRIA, of Gilbert AZ, is a Certified Therapist and advocate for self-care. Chante believes living healthy is a lifelong process that requires self-love and self-care for continued existence. Photo credit: mtoome/iStock

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L Y ALDA CO T August 2015 — East Valley — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 15

feature story

Is NOT Treating Prostate Cancer a Possibility? Information from www.cancer.org

magine being told by your doctor, “You have cancer.” Then imagine that their next words are “... but we probably don’t need to do anything about it.” Many people would immediately start looking for another doctor. But hold on just a moment. Not treating cancer? To most individuals, the idea of having cancer and choosing not to treat it smacks of fatalism, or just giving up. In order to understand why this is not the case, it is important to appreciate that all prostate cancers are not created equal. There are many prostate cancers that can be singled out as likely to be slow growing and posing a low risk to the affected man. These can be identified by: Page 16 — Healthy Cells Magazine — East Valley — August 2015

• PSA level (prostate specific antigen): A protein made by the prostate gland and measured in the blood) • Gleason score: A numerical representation of how a man’s tumor looks under the microscope • Other factors: Size of the tumor, how much of the prostate gland is invaded by cancer, etc. The vast majority of men with these low-risk tumors will end up dying of something other than prostate cancer, and few of these men would ever experience any harm from their cancer if it went untreated (or if it was never found in the first place). It’s estimated that as many as half of the prostate cancers diagnosed each year in the U.S. fit into this low-risk category. However,

to most people the term “low-risk cancer” sounds like an oxymoron. This quandary prompted some experts to question whether this type of tumor should even be called “cancer,” or if the scientific community should come up with a new, less frightening term to describe these slow growing prostate lesions. For most men who are told that they have prostate cancer, the first question is, “How soon can we get rid of it?” In the U.S., 90 percent of these men move very rapidly to what is viewed as definitive therapy, usually prostatectomy (surgical removal of the prostate gland), or killing the cancer cells with radiation treatment. These treatments come with the risk of side effects and complications: most commonly, damage to bladder or bowel function, and sexual difficulties. A recent report from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force estimates that one or more of these complications occur in up to 30 of every 100 men treated for prostate cancer; the same report indicates that 1 of every 200 men who undergo surgical removal of their prostate die within 30 days of their surgery. These numbers point to why it’s so important to explore alternative approaches to managing this disease. Expectant Management, Watchful Waiting, and Active Surveillance Because prostate cancer often grows very slowly, some men (especially those who are older or have other serious health problems) might never need treatment for their prostate cancer. Instead, their doctors may recommend approaches known as expectant management, watchful waiting, observation, or active surveillance. Some doctors use these terms to mean the same thing. For other doctors, the terms “active surveillance” and “watchful waiting” mean something slightly different. Not all doctors agree with these definitions or use them exactly this way. In fact, some doctors prefer to no longer use the term watchful waiting. They feel it implies that nothing is being done, when in fact a man is still being closely monitored. No matter which term your doctor uses, it’s very important to understand exactly what he or she means when they refer to it. Active Surveillance Active surveillance is often used to mean monitoring the cancer closely with prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood tests, digital rectal exams (DREs), and ultrasounds at regular intervals to see if the cancer is growing. Transrectal ultrasoundguided prostate biopsies may be done every year as well to see if the cancer is becoming more aggressive. If there were a change in your test results, your doctor would then talk to you about treatment options. On biopsies, an increase in the Gleason score or extent of tumor (based on the number of biopsy samples containing tumor) are both signals to start treatment (usually surgery or radiation therapy). In active surveillance, only men whose cancer is growing (and therefore have a more serious form of cancer) are treated. This allows men with less serious cancer avoid the side effects of a treatment that might not have helped them live longer. A possible downside of this approach is that it might give the cancer a chance to grow and spread. This might limit your treatment options, and could possibly affect the chances of curing the cancer. August 2015 — East Valley — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 17

feature story

continued

Men who are young and healthy are less likely to be offered active surveillance, out of concern that the cancer will become a problem over the next 20 or 30 years. Not all experts agree how often testing should be done during active surveillance. There is also debate about when is the best time to start treatment if things change. Watchful Waiting Watchful waiting (observation) is sometimes used to describe a less intensive type of follow-up that may mean fewer tests and rely more on changes in a man’s symptoms to decide if treatment is needed. Watchful waiting and active surveillance are reasonable options for some men with slow-growing cancers because it is not known whether treating the cancer with surgery or radiation will actually help them live longer. These treatments have definite risks and side effects that may outweigh the possible benefits for some men. Some men are not comfortable with this approach, and are willing to accept the possible side effects of active treatments to try to remove or destroy the cancer. There have been a few large studies comparing watchful waiting (where men were treated only if they developed symptoms from their cancer) and surgery for early stage prostate cancer. In one study, where few of the patients had very early stage (T1) cancers, the men who had surgery lived longer. In another study, where about half of the men had very early stage cancers, there was no real survival advantage for treatment with surgery. So far there have been no large studies comparing active surveillance to treatments such as surgery or radiation therapy. Some early studies of men who are good candidates for active surveillance have shown that only about a quarter of the men need to go on to treatment with radiation or surgery. Bottom Line So why do 9 out of 10 men with prostate cancer in the U.S. end up being treated shortly after they’re diagnosed? It turns out that many prostate cancer patients have never heard of active surveillance or watchful waiting, and are never told that observation is an option they could consider for their cancer. In other cases, active surveillance is discussed as a potential management option but is presented in an unfavorable manner (i.e., “we can treat your cancer or we can just do nothing”). Even in circumstances where active surveillance is discussed in a fair, objective manner, there are a number of other factors that may influence the likelihood of men choosing and sticking with this option. These include whether or not their physician supports their choice, the extent of support from family and friends, and the patients’ personal perceptions of and experience with cancer (whether they themselves have had other types of cancer in the past, or observed friends or family go through cancer treatment). So if you or someone close to you has been diagnosed with prostate cancer — slow down! After getting past the shock, start asking some questions. Find out all that you can about the tumor, and determine whether the cancer fits into the low-risk category. Be sure to explore all treatment options, including active surveillance. In some cases of prostate cancer “no treatment” may turn out to be the best treatment. Source: “To Treat or Not to Treat Prostate Cancer: That is the Question,” by Durado Brooks, MD, MPH. www.cancer.org Photo credits: patrickheagney/monkeybusinessimages/bowdenimages/iStock

Page 18 — Healthy Cells Magazine — East Valley — August 2015

What should you ask your doctor about prostate cancer? It’s important for you to have honest, open discussions with your cancer care team. They want to answer all of your questions, no matter how minor you might think they are. For instance, consider asking these questions: • What are the chances that the cancer has spread beyond my prostate? If so, is it still curable? • What further tests (if any) do you recommend, and why? • Are there other types of doctors I should talk to before deciding on treatment? • What is the clinical stage and Gleason score (grade) of my cancer? What do those mean to me? Does this make me a low-risk, intermediate-risk or high-risk patient? • What is my expected survival rate based on clinical stage, grade, and various treatment options? • Do you recommend a radical prostatectomy or radiation? Why or why not? • Should I consider laparoscopic or robot-assisted prostatectomy? • What types of radiation therapy might work best for me? • What other treatment(s) might be right for me? Why? • What risks or side effects should I expect from my treatment options? • What are the chances that I will have problems with incontinence or impotence? • What are the chances that I will have other urinary or rectal problems? • How quickly do I need to decide on treatment? • What should I do to be ready for treatment? • How long will treatment last? What will it be like? Where will it be done? • How would treatment affect my daily activities? • What are the chances my cancer will come back with the treatment plans we have discussed? What would be our next step if this happened? • What type of follow-up will I need after treatment? • Where can I find more information and support? Keep in mind that doctors aren’t the only ones who can give you information. Other health care professionals, such as nurses and social workers, may have the answers to some of your questions. You can find out more about speaking with your health care team in the document “Talking With Your Doctor” on www.cancer.org.

in the community

Back-to-School Clothing Drive By Sarah Auffret, Assistance League of East Valley

ast year, more than 7,000 underprivileged children received new school clothing and shoes thanks to the efforts of Assistance League of East Valley. In addition to community donations, grants, and fund-raising events, the all-volunteer group raises funds through their Chandler thrift shop. This year, Assistance League is also conducting a socks-andunderwear collection drive to supplement their efforts, to make sure all children have the basic necessities. Community members are asked to donate unopened packages of socks and underwear sizes four to 16 for both boys and girls. A collection bin will be located at the Assistance League Thrift Store, 1950 N. Arizona Avenue in Chandler, on the southwest corner of Arizona and Warner Avenues, from August 15th to September 15th. To assist the chapter, Arizona Industrial Hardware, 6965 W. Frye Rd. in Chandler, is also conducting a collection drive with their employees. Summer hours for the upscale thrift store are 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday, extending to 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. beginning September 8th. Donations of all kinds are welcome. Each fall, children in pre-K through sixth grade in Mesa, Tempe, Kyrene, Chandler, and Gilbert School Districts receive clothing from the organization after being recommended by personnel at their schools. The local group purchases almost 22,000 uniform articles plus shoes, underwear, and socks, for Operation School Bell. This is the signature program of all Assistance League chapters throughout the nation. Youngsters who attend non-uniform schools are invited to a Target store for a shopping trip with their parents. Assistance League volunteers wearing blue aprons greet them and provide a list of what items to buy and the amount allowed for shopping ($90 for each child). Though parents and children do the shopping,

volunteers assist and make sure they are aware of school dress codes and are selecting appropriate shoes and clothing. Families leave with a bag of new clothing and a hygiene kit for each child, some of whom have never had new clothing. There are lots of tears, hugs, and thank-yous all around. Assistance League of East Valley also provide more than 3,000 assault survivor kits to nine agencies that work with children and adults who are victims of assault or are in crisis situations. They supply books and supplemental materials to Chandler schools, host spelling bees in Tempe and Gilbert Schools, provide scholarships to college students, and hold monthly birthday parties at an adult day care center and a school for homeless children. Assistance League of East Valley is a nonprofit, charitable organization committed to volunteer service in the community. For more information, please visit www.assistanceleagueeastvalley.org or call 480-792-1600. Located 1950 North Arizona Avenue, Suite 3, Chandler, AZ 85225. Photos courtesy of Assistance League of East Valley August 2015 — East Valley — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 19

family love

Joy of Being a Grandma By Patty Vieira, Insurance Resources, LLC

ver the last four years, I’ve had the pleasure of assisting clients who are on Medicare find their plans. When I’m visiting with them, they have pictures of their grandchildren everywhere. I used to wonder what it would feel like when one of my sons had a child of their own.

Patty Vieira

the exact spot where she’d be able to hurt herself as she scoots around the living room. When I was visiting in May, I wore my Fitbit that tracks your steps throughout your day and was surprised to see that never leaving the house I had accumulated as many steps as if I had walked 3 miles! Babies are fast, too! You have mere seconds to get from point A to point B and catch her as she is about to topple over. I can tell you that even though I am a very active adult, I feel an exhaustion that I have never known! When I visit, I make faces at my son when he tells me how to feed her or give her a bottle. It’s amazing how much I’ve learned and, apparently, it’s a shear miracle he survived without all these new rules. But I get down on that floor and we play with her toys and tickle and kiss. Never having a little girl, playing with pink stuffed animals and dolls is a new experience. Buying little girls clothing is way more exciting than when my sons were little. All these ruffles and bows! A grandmother’s love knows no bounds. She has my heart in a way no one ever has and every day with her has been magic. Exhausting, but magic! I think, the reason it’s so much more fun being a grandma, is you get to be the fun one. Being a parent is worry, stress, worry some more. What school should they go to, juggling working, getting enough sleep, are THEY getting enough sleep, doctor visits and, apparently, not feeding them out of the jar (who knew) — the list goes on and on. When you are grandma, you show up, tickle, kiss, love. They want something, you buy it. Pretty easy! Oh, and a tip for new grandma’s. Pull your tablet up and find “Wheels on the Bus YouTube.” You’re welcome. How does that saying go? If I had known grandchildren were this much fun, I’d have had them first! Have questions about Individual or Medicare Insurance? Patty Vieira is an Independent Insurance broker with 28 years of experience. She specializes in simplifying Medicare Insurance plans and quotes and finding the right plan to meet the unique needs for each client. Call: 480-220-7233, email: pattyjvieira@gmail.com or visit www. insurancebypatty.com. Photo courtesy Insurance Resources, LLC

Nothing prepared me for the joy of holding my granddaughter the first time and every time since then. Maria lives in Boston but I get to see her every couple of months. She is just on the verge of walking and I happened to be visiting the first time she stood without holding on to anything. She had the cutest look on her face when she realized she wasn’t holding on and then she clapped for herself. My son and his wife have baby-proofed their home as well as you can baby proof a home and she still finds a way to locate Page 20 — Healthy Cells Magazine — East Valley — August 2015

protect your health

What You Need to Know About Adult Vaccines

Melanie Seamans, CNHA

Submitted by Melanie Seamans, CNHA, Executive Director, Generations at Agritopia

ach year thousands of adults in the United States suffer serious health problems from diseases that could be prevented by vaccines — some people are hospitalized and some even die. People with heart disease and those who have suffered stroke are at higher risk for serious problems from certain vaccine-preventable diseases. Vaccines are important for you. There are many reasons why vaccines are important for adults. Here are just a few: • The aging process can make it harder for you to fight off certain diseases like the flu. That’s why a flu vaccine every year is important. • Some vaccine-preventable diseases, like influenza, can increase the risk of another heart attack. That’s why you should talk to your health care professional to make sure you have all the vaccines you need. • Pre-existing conditions also increases your risk of serious complications from certain illnesses such as pneumonia and influenza. Certain types of pneumonia can be prevented by pneumococcal vaccines. Vaccines are one of the safest ways to protect your health. • Vaccines are tested and monitored. Vaccines are tested before being licensed by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and FDA continue to monitor vaccines after they are licensed. • Vaccine side effects are usually mild and temporary. The most common side effects include soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site. Severe side effects are very rare. • Vaccines are safe to get, even if you are taking prescription medications. In fact, they are an important part of staying healthy, especially if you have a chronic condition like heart disease. What vaccines do you need? There are a number of yearly vaccines recommended for adults: • Flu vaccine every year to protect against seasonal flu • Pneumococcal vaccine to protect against serious pneumococcal diseases In addition, all adults need: • Tdap vaccine to protect against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough) • Zoster vaccine to protect against shingles if you are 60 years or older There may be other vaccines recommended for you, so be sure to talk with your health care professional. Getting adult vaccines can be easier than you think. You may regularly see your primary care provider. Wellness visits are a great place to start! Many physician offices carry vaccines recommended for healthy adults as well as those with pre-existing conditions. If your health care professional does not offer the vaccines you need, ask for a referral so you can get the vaccines elsewhere.

Adults can get vaccines at doctors’ offices, pharmacies, workplaces, community health clinics, and health departments. Most health insurance plans cover recommended vaccines. Check with your insurance provider for details and for a list of vaccine providers covered by your plan. If you do not have health insurance, Don’t Wait. Vaccinate! Talk with your health care professional to make sure you are up-to-date with the vaccines recommended for you. To find a place near you to get a vaccine, go to http://vaccine.healthmap.org. Generations at Agritopia offers vibrant living with an extensive array of services and amenities for independent living, assisted living, and memory care residents, giving them the freedom to enjoy what matters most. Attend our senior living seminars on Thursdays at 10 a.m. or schedule a personal tour and complimentary lunch by calling 480-822-1400. We are located within the master plan of Agritopia, near Higley and Ray Roads in Gilbert, 2811 E. Agritopia Loop S. Find us on the web at www.generationsseniorliving.com or email us at info@generationsseniorliving.com. Source available upon request. Photo credit: Mark Bowden/iStock August 2015 — East Valley — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 21

misleading healthcare

Beware of Health Scams Submitted by Sheriolyn Curry, Mdiv, CSA, Comfort Keepers

ou see ads for miracle drugs everywhere these days — supplements that claim to stop or reverse aging or make aches and pains disappear like magic! You might even see statements like, “This treatment cured my cancer in one week.” They appear to offer hope, but they aren’t true. Today, there are more ways than ever to sell untested products — online, TV, radio, magazines, and newspapers are just a few examples. Actors portray doctors and patients on infomercials. You might even get an email urging you to try a product. It can be hard to tell what is an ad. The problem is serious. Untested remedies may be harmful. They may get in the way of medicines prescribed by your doctor. They may be expensive and a waste of money. And, sometimes, using these products keeps people from getting the medical treatment they need. False Hopes Why do people fall for these sales pitches? Unproven remedies promise false hope. Ads where people say they have been cured do not prove that a product works. They offer solutions that appear to be quick and painless. At best, these treatments are worthless. At the worst, they are dangerous. Health scams set their sights on people who are scared or in pain. It’s easy to see why a person might be tempted to believe in the promise of a miracle remedy. Living with a chronic health problem is hard. Health scams usually target diseases that may have treatments for symptoms but currently have no cures. You may see ads for: • Anti-aging therapies: Our culture places great value on staying young, but aging is normal. Pills or other treatments for endless youth have Page 22 — Healthy Cells Magazine — East Valley — August 2015

not been scientifically proven to slow or reverse the aging process. Eating a healthy diet, not smoking, and getting regular exercise or staying physically active are ways to really help prevent some of the diseases that occur with age. In other words, making healthy choices offer you the best chance for aging well. • Arthritis remedies: You may see claims that treatments with magnets, copper bracelets, chemicals, special diets, radiation, and other products can cure arthritis. This is highly unlikely. Unproven arthritis remedies can be easy to believe because symptoms of arthritis tend to come and go. There is no cure for most forms of arthritis. Rest, exercise, heat, and some drugs help many people control their symptoms. •C ancer cures: Scam artists prey on a fear of cancer. They promote treatments with no proven value. There is no one treatment that cures all types of cancer. By using unproven methods, people with cancer may lose valuable time and the chance to benefit from a proven, effective treatment. This delay may lessen the chance of controlling or curing the disease. •M emory aids: Many people worry about losing their memory as they age. So-called smart pills, removal of amalgam dental fillings, and some brain training programs are examples of untested approaches that promise to keep or improve memory. •D ietary supplements: Americans spend billions of dollars each year on dietary supplements. They are sold over-the-counter, without a prescription, and include vitamins and minerals, amino acids, herbs, and enzymes. The Federal Government does not consider dietary supplements to be medicines and does not monitor them in the same way it does prescription medicines. While some vitamins may be helpful, supplements may be bad for people taking certain medicines or with

some medical conditions. Be wary of claims that a supplement can shrink tumors, solve impotence, or cure Alzheimer’s disease. • Health insurance: Some companies offer health insurance coverage that promises more than it intends to deliver. When you think about buying health insurance, remember to find out if the company and agent are licensed in your State. How Can You Protect Yourself From Health Scams? Be skeptical. Question what you see or hear in ads or online. Newspapers, magazines, movies, and radio and TV stations do not always check to make sure the claims in their ads are true or say if a celebrity is being paid to endorse a product. Ask your doctor, nurse, other health care provider, or pharmacist about a product before you buy it. Don’t let a salesperson talk you into making a snap decision. Look for red flags in ads or promotional material that: • Promise a quick or painless cure. • Claim the product is made from a special, secret or ancient formula. Offer products and services only by mail or from one company. • Use statements or unproven case histories from so-called satisfied patients. • Claim to be a cure for a wide range of ailments. • Claim to cure a disease (such as arthritis or Alzheimer’s disease) that hasn’t been cured by medical science. • Promise a no-risk, money-back guarantee. • Offer an additional free gift or a larger amount of the product as a special promotion. • Require advance payment and claim there is a limited supply of the product.

Two Federal Government agencies work to protect you from health scams. The Federal Trade Commission (877-382-4357 or www.ftc. gov) can help you spot fraud and misleading ads. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (888-463-6332 or www.fda.gov) protects the public by assuring the safety of prescription drugs, biological products, medical devices, food, cosmetics, and radiation-emitting products. If you have questions about a product, talk to your doctor. Getting the facts about health care products can help protect you from health scams. Comfort Keepers of Chandler provides all levels of care and a wide variety of services. Caregivers are certified and have on-going training to give them the all the skills to be the best caregiver they can be. For additional information, call 480659-9201, visit www.comfortkeepers.com or email chandler@comfortkeepers.com. Se habla español. Source: www.nia.nih.gov/health/publication/beware-health-scams Photo credit: lisafx/iStock, Scukrov/iStock

• Integrated midwife and physician practice • Routine and high risk pregnancy • Female pelvic medicine • Menopause • Urinary leakage treatment • In office tubal occlusion • In office uterine ablation to treat abnormal bleeding • In office lab work • In office ultrasounds

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August 2015 — East Valley — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 23

effective conversation

Arguments It Isn’t Always About Winning

Keith Dorson

By Keith Dorson, Win Win Fire Teams LLC.

ccording to an article on Arguments by University of Pittsburgh’s website released in 2007, arguments are a learned art. It explains that there are four reasons for arguments: to clarify ideas; explain or defend actions or beliefs; solve problems or make judgments; and, lastly, for the fun of it. In a calm reasonable setting, some arguments are strictly productive. Other arguments break out with complete strangers — they never need to happen and never get anywhere. All quarrels happen for a different reason and have different results; there are a few tips and tricks to navigate your way around arguments so everyone leaves content. Some arguments you need to avoid, some you need to stop, but most can end with both parties leaving in a win-win situation. Every argument has a different purpose, but not all of them need to happen. Avoiding arguments is a skill of knowing when to bend and not break, when to listen, and when to speak up. Many people enjoy starting arguments for the sport of it, which can cause unnecessary stress for the person forced into the argument. Respectfully let the other person know that either you do not have time or do not care to debate right then. Simply telling someone “no” will typically stop them. We cannot avoid arguments in our lives, no matter how much we would like to. Whether it is the same old argument with your uncle Phil who will not let an age-old debate die quietly (and, who feels like bringing it up at every family gathering) or whether a stranger decides you need to believe their opinion; some arguments just happen. The most important step is to be polite, so as not to fuel the issue. Making the person aware that you both understand and appreciate their opinion can aid in stopping the discussion. There are a few simple ways to make sure no one gets hurt during an argument and that everyone walks away with a win-win solution. The thing to remember is to separate the argument from the person. This may sound like an odd concept, but it helps stop pointless personal attacks and helps maintain relationships, no matter how the argument ends up. For example, saying I have no time for this, rather than you are wasting my time, helps shift the blame off the other person. Focus on the principle behind what they are saying, rather than the actual problem they are addressing right then. This takes creative problem solving to look deeper into someone’s reasoning, but it is necessary for making sure arguments go over smoothly and end with a clear decision in mind. Although some arguments are necessary and some are even fun, if an argument gets out of hand it can be destructive. Knowing when to avoid them, when to stop them, and how to end them beneficially, are needed skills for maintaining relationships and for surviving awkward social conflicts. No matter how an argument goes, it is important to keep the goal in mind to help continue building relationships and not burn any metaphorical bridges. If you would like to sit down and discuss the key thoughts of this article with us, call us for a visit at 480-890-0100. Photo credit: TatyanaGl/iStock Page 24 — Healthy Cells Magazine — East Valley — August 2015

life care planning

How to Have “The Talk” About Advanced Directives

Cathy Peterson

By Cathy Peterson, Gemini Hospice, LLC

lthough it may make you uncomfortable, letting your loved ones know of your wishes, should you become incapacitated, is one of the greatest gifts you can give. Advanced directives allow you to appoint the person you wish to make health choices when you are unable. By completing the proper forms, you can communicate your health care needs to your loved ones.

Necessary Forms • Durable health care power of attorney • Durable mental health care power of attorney • Living will (end of life care choices) • Letter to your agent • Pre-hospital medical directive (do not resuscitate — DNR) Forms can be downloaded by going to www.azag.gov, go to communities, click on “Seniors,” then choose “Life Care Planning.” Legal documents can be stored in the Arizona Advance Directives Registry. For more information or questions, contact Gemini Hospice at 480-883-1353 or visit www.geminihospice.com. Photo credit: Creatas/Thinkstock

Insurance Resources, LLC

For Medicare Products and Long-term Care Insurance

Putting the Pieces of the Puzzle Together

How to Begin Consider sharing your thoughts with those closest to you, including your doctor, clergymen, accountant, lawyer, or anyone to whom you usually seek advice.

Patty J Vieira Independent Broker

What to Discuss Do you want to be resuscitated? Or, do you want comfort and care to enhance the quality of your life without artificially prolonging life? Remember, if you chose to be resuscitated, you could be confined to a ventilator or need medically invasive procedures such as intravenous feeding tubes inserted into your body.

InsurancebyPatty.com

What are your wishes? It is important to know not only what you want done with your body, but also how you want your loved ones to honor you once you pass. Do you want to donate your body to science? Donate your organs? Do you want an autopsy? Do you want a funeral? Do you want to be cremated? Do you want a celebration of your life?

3961 Chandler Blvd. Ste III, PMP 128 Phoenix, AZ 85048

C 480-220-7233 F 480-304-3450

August 2015 — East Valley — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 25

power of touch

Integrated Massage for Pain Relief By Arika Forshee, Patient of Structura Body Therapies

Arika Forshee

ovember 10th, 2011 is a day that sticks out in my mind clearly. I was on a plane traveling to California for my dad’s wedding. With my 3 year old son on my lap, I was scooting over on the seats when I sat down hard on the metal U-bracket that holds the seatbelts into place. Hot knives of pain shot up my spine. I spent the rest of the weekend using pain killers to be able to walk around and sit without feeling like daggers were stabbing through my tailbone. For the next several months, I would be unable to sit in a reclining position or sit on the floor without pain. This was very difficult for me as I am a kindergarten teacher and spend a lot of time on the floor with my students. It also occurred to me that having any more children might prove to be even more painful due to the pain in my tailbone. I was afraid that future children would be impossible. In April of 2012, I began seeking pain treatment. I made an appointment at a pain clinic and had a consultation with their medical staff. After receiving an x-ray of the area, we found that I had not actually damaged the bone. However, an ultrasound revealed inflammation surrounding the area the size of a grapefruit. I

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began receiving treatment; however it became clear that this treatment method was not working. Although I experienced some temporary relief, the pain was always back by the next day. After 2 months of treatment, I was still unable to sit comfortably for any length of time. It was around this time that a friend suggested I try injury massage as the problem was in the tissue surrounding my tailbone. Since I was not yet receiving relief from the pain, I decided to look into massage. I met with a certified therapist who explained to me how structural integration massage could help address my pain. I agreed to try their treatment plan and made weekly appointments to work with my new therapist. Each week we worked on a different part of my body, while also doing massage to the specific areas surrounding my pain. I quickly noticed the pain becoming less and less throughout the following weeks. Within three months of beginning my structural integration massage treatment, my pain was gone. I am now able to sit comfortably on any surface, including the hard floor and I’m expecting my second child in November. I owe my healing to Structura Body Therapies. As bodyworkers and functional movement therapist at Structura Body Therapies, we focus on balancing the muscle and fascial systems of the body to improve range of motion, posture and support pain-free living. We are able to view your muscle imbalances and design the best treatment to your needs and properly address your fascia pain and dysfunction. Call today for a free 30 minute consultation to find out how we can help you live a more pain-free, healthy life! Call today 480-686-8647 or check us out on line at www.structurachandleraz.com. We heal by design! Photo credit: microgen/iStock

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