Inspire Coastal Bend Magazine Medical Nov/Dec 2019 by Inspire Coastal Bend Magazine

COASTAL BEND MAGAZINE

TRUE LEADERSHIP DICK MCCRACKEN GIVES BACK TO THE GREATER COMMUNITY

THE GIFT OF HEALTH

CHRISTUS SPOHN HEALTH SYSTEM

Form & Function

CORPUS CHRISTI INSTITUTE OF COSMETIC & PLASTIC SURGERY

NOV/DEC 2019 I N S P I R E C O A S TA L B E N D M A G . C O M

Dr. Mathew Alexander

We passionately aim to raise the standard of care in Corpus Christi. Our goal is to offer an elevated level of service comparable to the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading cancer centers by improving the quality of life of our patients right here in Corpus Christi.

Minimally invasive brain Minimally invasive spine Dr. Melissa Macias

Carpal tunnel Ulnar nerve Total disc replacement Deep brain stimulation (DBS)

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All-Star Neurology Specializing in: • Spine • Cranial • Peripheral Nerve • Surgical Plan Modalities

1227 3rd. Street, Corpus Christi, TX

www.southtexasbrainandspinecenter.com

361-883-4324

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CE TR RT OK IFI E ED

Rehabilitation and Alzheimer’s Disease Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease that causes problems with memory, thinking, and behavior. At Corpus Christi Rehabilitation Hospital, our specially-trained, interdisciplinary team works with Alzheimer’s patients and their families to help them maintain their abilities and independence for as long as possible. We create individualized treatment plans with patients and family members, offering: • Physical Therapy - Focuses on improving balance, muscle strength and mobility; fall prevention • Speech-Language Pathology - Focuses on cognitive and communication skills; swallowing difficulties • Occupational Therapy - Focuses on daily living activities such as eating, bathing, dressing, toileting • Neuropsychology Counseling - Helps patients and family members adjust to emotional and physical changes • Home Evaluations - Identifies necessary modifications to provide a safe home environment • Family/Caregiver Education - Teaches caregivers about disease process and how to best help • Community Resources - Provides patients and caregivers with educational resources, including respite care

For more information on Corpus Christi Rehabilitation Hospital’s Alzheimer’s services, call 361-906-3700.

CCRH.ERNESTHEALTH.COM 2

5726 Esplanade Drive • Corpus Christi, TX 78414 I N S P I R E C O A S TA L B E N D M A G . C O M

6002 S. Staples St. Corpus Christi, TX TreaTing all eye Care needs!

 LASIK/PRK  Cataract  Eyelids  Glaucoma  Retina  Diabetes  Dry Eye  What you need!

Highly experienced, specialty trained, dedicated to you treating all of your eye care needs!

Schedule your eye care to be seen same day, next day, or as you request

Call 361.334.2625 or schedule online www.TexasEye.care

I N S P I R E C O A S TA L B E N D M A G . C O M

CONTENTS NOVEMBER.DECEMBER 2019

16 COVER STORY CORPUS CHRISTI INSTITUTE OF COSMETIC & PLASTIC SURGERY The team at this state-of-theart practice puts patients first, helping restore their quality of life and self-image in a familial environment.

26 PROFILE CHRISTUS SPOHN HEALTH SYSTEM Thanks to a game-changing gift from a longtime area doctor, CHRISTUS Health brings urology suite renovations and new technologies to Coastal Bend patients.

PATIENT 10 Staying on Your Feet 12 Winter Wish List MENTAL HEALTH 14 Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Worry

COVER AND TABLE OF CONTENTS PHOTOS BY: TWINS MEDIA

HEALTH AND WELLNESS 30 Thankfulness 32 Culture of Wellness 34 Upgrade Your Metabolism EXPRESSIONS OF INSPIRATION 36 True Leadership

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MEET THE STAFF COASTAL BEND MAGAZINE

ADRIAN GARZA PUBLISHER adrian@inspirecoastalbendmag.com 361.548.1044

NOVEMBER.DECEMBER 2019 PUBLISHER Adrian Garza

PUBLISHER & OPERATIONS Holly Lewis

EDITOR Erin O’Brien

ART DIRECTOR

HOLLY LEWIS PUBLISHER & OPERATIONS holly@inspirecoastalbendmag.com 479.935.0868

Elisa Giordano

SOCIAL MEDIA Morgan Bartel

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Steven Alford Vince Dionio Jacqueline Gonzales TJ Gonzales Kathleen Naderer Erin Wilder Lisa Wright

ERIN O'BRIEN EDITOR erin.editorial@gmail.com

PHOTOGRAPHY Jason Page Photography TWINS Media

ELISA GIORDANO ART DIRECTOR elisa@inspirecoastalbendmag.com 210.716.5320

www.inspirecoastalbendmag.com For advertising information or editorial comments, please call 479-935-0868 or email holly@inspirecoastalbendmag.com.

PELICAN

MORGAN BARTEL SOCIAL MEDIA morgan@inspirecoastalbendmag.com 620.417.5392

MEDIA GROUP

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Cornerstone Home Health Cornerstone Home Health can provide a service or a combination of services in your HOME. Along with your physician and our qualified staff, we plan, coordinate, and provide care tailored to your needs.

Services we offered include: Skilled nursing, Physical therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, Social Worker, and CNA

If you have any questions or want to make a referral, contact our office at 361-727-2131 or Toll free 1-855-328-2131

2600 Lakeview Dr. Suite 2C | Rockport, Tx 78382

AAdi Home Health & Hospice Services AAdi Home Health and Hospice is a full service home health and hospice agency. We provide quality nursing services and outstanding support services. The staff at AAdi has the experience, dedication and compassion needed to provide care in a home environment without sacrificing quality or safety.

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SIT DOWN TOGETHER

TWENTY MINUTES TO BETTER HEALTH These days, we eat more food away from home compared to generations before us, which is unfortunate because there are many benefits of family mealtime. This November (Eat Smart Month) resolve to make family meals a reality and an enjoyable time despite everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s busy schedules. Eating together with your family or a good set of friends (or co-workers) for about 20 minutes three to five times a week is all it takes to benefit.

So, how do you make family meals part of your weekly routine? Plan ahead and pick at least two days where everyone has time to join a family meal. Even if you have to eat dinner separately and come back to the table after a soccer practice for snack of fruit with everyone, that counts! Make the family dinner table a cell phone/TV/ computer/video-game free zone; adults too! Break the ice with a round of knock-knock jokes or ask about everyone's favorite memory from last month. This will help generate great conversation.

FAMILY MEALTIMES COULD MEAN... Fewer behavior problems in young children Stronger vocabulary and more academic successes Teens are less likely to smoke cigarettes or marijuana, or to abuse alcohol Kids are less likely to be overweight and less likely to develop disordered eating Eating healthier foods

GET RECIPES & HEALTHY TIPS AT WWW.HEART.ORG/HEALTHYFORGOOD

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Treating your cancer journey locally means you can still make trips to the park. With all the new innovations and treatment options available to you, one of the most powerful is actually your normal routine. By caring for cancer right here at CHRISTUS Spohn, you’ll not only have access to nationally accredited facilities and a personalized care plan – you’ll also have your friends, family, and neighbors in your corner. You’ll get the emotional and spiritual lift you need, along with the powerful and personalized care you deserve. Treat your cancer where your life is. 361.737.0600 | ChristusSpohn.org/CancerCenter

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PATIENT

STAYING ON YOUR FEET Fall prevention for older adults

FALLS ARE THE LEADING CAUSE OF INJURIES FOR PEOPLE 65 AND OLDER.

By: VINCE DIONIO

a fall. Rehabilitation services can help a person regain strength, alleviate pain and recover other abilities that are essential to overall well-being and independence. In addition, physical therapy plays a key role in helping prevent future falls by improving movement, balance and agility. At Corpus Christi Rehabilitation Hospital, LiteGait technology helps patients safely improve balance, gait and functional independence without the risk of falling. To help prevent falls at home, consider the following home modification tips:

injuries resulting from falls and how rehabilitation services can help. Injuries such as joint sprains, dislocations of the shoulder and hip and fractured bones are typical injuries caused by falls. Back, spinal cord and head injuries can also be caused by falls. Even if a fall doesn’t result in an injury, it can still cause fear in an individual and hinder the individual’s independence. Rehabilitation can be beneficial for someone who has experienced

Common causes of falls may include:

A decline in physical fitness Impaired vision Medications Chronic diseases Surgical procedures

Environmental hazards (A majority of falls in the elderly population occur in or around the home, and are attributed to poor lighting, clutter, loose carpets, slick floors and lack of safety equipment.)

In addition to home modifications, a change in wardrobe also can help in preventing falls. Wear sensible, nonslip footwear, and avoid wearing loose clothing. Make sure to also talk with your family and care providers about your falling risks.

VINCE DIONIO is a physical therapist at Corpus Christi Rehabilitation Hospital. The hospital provides specialized rehabilitative care to patients recovering from disabilities caused by injuries, illnesses or chronic medical conditions. For more information, visit www.ccrh.ernesthealth.com, call 361-906-3700 or visit the hospital at 5726 Esplanade Drive in Corpus Christi, Texas.

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TOA555/STOCK.ADOBE.COM

alls are the leading cause of injuries for people 65 and older. Once a person experiences a fall, it can limit mobility and independence, which can decrease the ability to perform everyday tasks. With falls being the leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries in older adults, it’s important not only to understand the common reasons for falls, but also to know the typical

Keep rooms free from clutter Install handrails, raised toilet seats, grab bars and shower mats Light up dark areas of the home Remove or tape down any loose carpets or electrical wires Ensure telephones can be easily reached from the floor Replace chairs that are too low to the ground or difficult to get out of Install night lights throughout the home, especially in bathrooms and stairwells

WE WILL PUT YOU BACK IN THE GAME OF LIFE

TREATMENTS AND PROGRAMS FOR: Musculoskeletal Injuries Pregnancy (Pre/Post Natal Care) Diabetes Fall Prevention Neuropathy Cardiovascular Therapy Osteoarthritis Vertigo (Dizziness) Osteoporosis Athletic Rehab (Sport Specific) Thoracic-Outlet Syndrome Orthotic Evaluation/Fabriation Pre-Op/Post-Operative Therapy

ALL 6 LOCATIONS OFFER CAREFULLY DESIGNED AND SUPERVISED EXERCISE PROGRAMS IN STATE OF THE ART GYMS AND LARGE INDOOR HEATED POOLS:

CORPUS CHRISTI

CALALLEN

ALICE

5026 Deepwood Cir. • 361.854.2278 4040 Five Points Rd. • 361.241.7399 1302 E. 5th St. • 361.664.9675

PORTLAND 114 Lang Rd. • 361.643.8243

ARANSAS PASS 2150 W. Wheeler Ave. • 361.758.5199

ROCKPORT 1811 Broadway (a.k.a. Fulton Beach Rd.) 361.729.8777

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PATIENT

This holiday season, unwrap a more confident you.

SPECIAL TO INSPIRE COASTAL BEND

GIVE THE GIFT OF GLOWING SKIN.

ot sure what to gift this holiday season? We offer several surgical and non-surgical options to treat yourself or your loved ones this holiday season! We hope this gift guide will help you find that perfect gift. Give the gift of glowing skin! Skincare products are always a great stocking-stuffer idea! We carry two great skincare lines: IMAGE Skin Care and our very own skin care line, Glow. Both lines offer a wide variety of products that cater to all skin needs. If you are looking for some non-invasive treatment options, our med spa offers several different aesthetic skin services to target skin concerns. Facials are a great option for everyone. They are typically used for general skin health, as well as specific skin concerns. Another popular treatment is a Hydrafacial, which combines exfoliation, extraction, hydration and antioxidant protection simultaneously. Dermaplaning is another form of exfoliation that can be added to any treatment to maximize results and product penetration or performed

by itself to remove dead skin and vellus hair. Laser Genesis, also known as the “glow and go,” is a laser treatment with no downtime that restores skin tone and texture, leaving you with beautiful, radiant-looking skin. Another go-to laser treatment is Laser Hair Removal, which is a great solution for those wanting to ditch the razor. Popular areas include armpits, legs and face. Photorejuventation, also a laser therapy treatment, helps reduce and treat pigmentation problems such as brown spots, liver spots and rosacea. Most experience little to no downtime with this treatment. Chemical Peels improve the skin’s appearance by revealing new skin that looks and feels as smooth as silk. This treatment has minimal downtime and is great during the fall and winter months when sun exposure is limited. Our collagen induction therapy, also known as Microneedling, is a treatment involves puncturing the skin with tiny, sterile needles to promote collagen, improve acne scarring, fine lines, wrinkles and stretch marks. Minimal down time

is associated with this treatment. If you are looking for a non-surgical alternative to a facelift, Ultherapy is the treatment for you! Ultherapy is the only FDA-cleared, non-invasive procedure that lifts and tightens the skin on the neck, chin and brow, and improves wrinkles on the chest. Injectables are always a great option and one of our most popular treatments! Botulinum Toxins like Botox & Dysport are used to reduce or eliminate the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles on the forehead or around the eyes like frown lines and crows’ feet. When injected into the skin, they can block the muscles that are responsible for the repetitive actions that cause fine lines and wrinkles, smoothing them out for a younger more refreshed look. This treatment is considered minimally invasive and results can last anywhere from three to four months. Unlike Botulinum Toxins, Fillers are used to diminish facial lines by restoring volume to the face. Fillers can also be used to enhance the lips or sculpt areas of the face like the jaw or cheeks. Fillers are also considered minimally invasive and can last anywhere from six to 12 months. Some of our surgical options available for facial rejuvenation are Facelift, Upper & Lower Blepharoplasty (eyelids), Brow Lift, Neck Lift, Rhinoplasty and Chin Augmentation. Surgical options for Body include, but are not limited to, Breast Augmentation, Breast Lift, Breast Reduction, Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck), Liposuction, Liposculpture, Thigh lift, Arm Lift and Brazilian Butt Lift. Unwrap a more confident ‘you’ this holiday season!

For more information on any of our products or services, or to schedule an appointment, call 361-888-7417.

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ROBERT PRZYBYSZ/STOCK.ADOBE.COM

WINTER WISH LIST

“If you have a hearing problem, we have a hearing solution.”

7602 S Staples Ste. 103 • Corpus Christi, TX 78413

(361) 288-3000 www.HoffmanHearing.com Services offered: • • • • • •

Full service audiology practice Over 17 years experience Latest in Bluetooth hearing technology 30 day trial Tinnitus Therapy Most insurances accepted

Carla S. Hoffman, BC-HIS

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MENTAL HEALTH

DON’T WORRY

Anxiety disorder: How much worry is too much? SPECIAL TO INSPIRE COASTAL BEND

What is anxiety disorder? Feeling anxious is a normal reaction to stress or perceived danger; it warns you to pay attention and be prepared. However, when your brain is telling you to feel anxious all the time, it can cause problems for you at work, school or social situations. The intense fears can trigger impulsive or avoidance behaviors, and the physical symptoms — shaking, sweating and heart palpitations — are often distressing. Anxiety disorders are extremely common. According to the American Psychiatric Association, nearly 30 percent of adults will experience it at some point during their lives. There are several different types of anxiety disorder. Some of the more common disorders include: •

Generalized anxiety disorder: Generalized anxiety disorder causes persistent, excessive fear accompanied by symptoms like restlessness, concentration issues, muscle tension and disrupted sleep. Your worries are often based on normal, everyday concerns like your job, family or appointments.

•

Panic disorder: Panic disorder is characterized by panic attacks, which are periods of intense anxiety accompanied by physical symptoms such as palpitations, sweating, shaking, feeling short of breath, nausea and more. Panic attacks may be triggered by a specific concern, or they may emerge from nowhere.

•

Social anxiety disorder: Social phobias stem from insecurities and fears about social interactions ranging from public speaking to meeting new people and attending parties. Your social anxiety may be rooted in fears of rejection or humiliation.

NEARLY 30 PERCENT OF ADULTS WILL EXPERIENCE AN ANXIETY DISORDER AT SOME POINT DURING THEIR LIVES.

• • • •

Trauma Other mental health disorders Personality type Drug or alcohol use

How are anxiety disorders treated? The psychiatrists and nurse practitioners at South Texas Mental Health Associates offer highly customized, patient-focused care

to help you address your anxiety disorder. After a comprehensive assessment, you’ll work with your clinician, usually combining medication and therapy to uncover and address the issues at the root of your anxiety. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a frequently used form of psychotherapy for anxiety disorders. It teaches you to recognize your thoughts and feelings and then learn to adjust your behavioral responses.

This article was provided by Dr. John O. Lusins III. If you’re concerned about anxiety or feel like your fears and worries are getting in the way of your life, call 361-356-6441 or schedule a consultation today with South Texas Mental Health Associates. Please visit us online at www.stmha.com.

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FEODORA/STOCK.ADOBE.COM

What causes anxiety? No one knows the exact cause of anxiety, but there are hereditary links. A number of risk factors increase your risk of developing anxiety, including:

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This is a great, super clean and exceptionally friendly facility! I am happy with my Invisalign correction and the staff was very flexible with my crazy schedule. The staff is very friendly and professional, they make you feel welcomed the instant you walk in the door! I would recommend CC Braces to anyone!

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5525 South Staples Street, Building C I N S P I R E C O A S TA L B E N D M A G . C O M

COVER STORY

Pioneers of FORM and

FUNCTION Find everything from facials to face lifts under one roof at the Corpus Christi Institute of Cosmetic & Plastic Surgery. By: KATHLEEN NADERER Photos by: TWINS MEDIA

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F rom the moment you enter the reception area of the Corpus Christi Institute of Cosmetic & Plastic Surgery, you can tell that quality of care is the No. 1 priority. The warm, welcoming atmosphere begins at the front desk. Vijay K. Bindingnavele, M.D., F.A.C.S., known affectionately as Dr. Vijay by his patients and staff, started his business with the goal of offering state-of-the-art cosmetic and plastic surgery care to residents of the Coastal Bend and surrounding South Texas region. Together with Cassidy Wright Hinojosa, M.D., and a team of highly qualified nurses and aestheticians, Dr. Vijay brings the latest, cutting-edge techniques, procedures and technology to his patients. This facility is special because onsite plastic surgeons and aestheticians pool their collective knowledge and collaborate daily to provide excellent care, tailored to meet each individualâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s needs. A key component of this process is open, honest conversations with patients about their goals and desires to determine which treatments will be most beneficial. All injections are done

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by the plastic surgeons themselves. They have also created an exclusive, specialized medical-grade skincare line. “When each person looks in the mirror, they see something different,” Dr. Vijay said. “Our goal is to make the person in the mirror reflect their self-conception.” Dr. Vijay believes in treating every person who walks through his door like family, so witnessing firsthand the impact cosmetic and plastic surgery have on improving a patient’s self-esteem is extremely rewarding. Popular procedures like body contouring and reconstruction have been shown to increase quality of life by restoring confidence about appearance. Mommy makeovers, gynecomastia surgery for men, removal of loose skin after weight loss and breast reconstruction for cancer survivors are just a few examples of

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the positive ways cosmetic and plastic surgery can reestablish a person’s self-image. But plastic surgery is not only about improving appearances. Certain special surgeries, such as hand surgery, require deft expertise to ensure that the delicate operation also restores ability. “All surgery involves improving and optimizing function,” Dr. Vijay said. “But there’s only one specialty that combines form and function, and that’s plastic surgery. Not only do you want it to look proper, you also want it to work properly.” Before he became a board-certified plastic surgeon and a fellow of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, Dr. Vijay attended medical school at Albany Medical College, where he graduated with honors, and joined the U.S. Air Force, where he completed his general surgical training.

THE SURGEONS CREATE A TIGHT-KNIT, FAMILIAL ENVIRONMENT WHERE THE PATIENTS ALWAYS KNOW THEY COME FIRST.

“

WHEN YOU COME HERE, YOU CAN BE SURE THAT WHICHEVER PLASTIC SURGEON YOU SEE HAS DONE VERY WELL IN THEIR TRAINING AND MET THE BENCHMARK SET BY THE AMERICAN BOARD OF PLASTIC SURGERY,”

His military service took him to South Korea, Germany and the Middle East. He honed his surgical skills treating the war-injured and even became the chief of surgery at the base hospital in Qatar. After 10 years in the Air Force, he joined the prestigious plastic surgery training program at the University of Southern California. Although Beverly Hills is well-known for its booming cosmetic and plastic surgery industry, Dr. Vijay and his wife, Pooja Bindingnavele, wanted to raise their family in a closer-knit city. Dr. Vijay himself was raised in Pennsylvania, but Texas was calling to him. For over a decade, Dr. Vijay and Pooja have been proud to call Corpus Christi their home. Together they have raised four wonderful daughters, and Dr. Vijay expressed deep gratitude for the support of his wife

and love of his family as he worked hard to build one of the best cosmetic and plastic surgery offices in Texas. In recent years, his business has grown both physically and with personnel. He moved to a new, larger location, and last year, he brought in another plastic surgeon, Dr. Cassidy. “When you come here, you can be sure that whichever plastic surgeon you see has done very well in their training and met the benchmark set by the American Board of Plastic Surgery,” Dr. Vijay said. The two surgeons share a passion for their field, as well as the goal of creating a tightknit, familial environment where the patients always know that they come first. “I feel very blessed to be here, working with Dr. Vijay,” said Dr. Cassidy, who described their meeting as serendipitous. 

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Originally from Mississippi, but raised in San Antonio, Dr. Cassidy knew from a young age that she wanted to be a surgeon like her father. She made rounds with him at the hospital as a child, and as she got older, she helped out in his clinic. She received early acceptance into the Texas A&M medical school system; upon completing medical school, she joined a residency program at the University of Missouri Hospital. She was drawn to the field of cosmetic and plastic surgery because of the wide variety of cases it handles. “As plastic surgeons, we operate all over the body,” she said. “We may start the day with a facial fracture, then the next case may be a hand case, then a breast or a lower-extremity wound.” When she began applying for positions as a plastic surgeon, Dr. Cassidy knew she wanted to return to South Texas. Her husband, also a physician, is originally from Victoria, so they agreed on Corpus Christi as their new home. She began sending out her CV and making

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cold calls when she encountered Dr. Vijay. From their very first conversation, Dr. Cassidy knew they would get along and work well together. The two surgeons share similar personality traits and value approachable, honest and compassionate care for their patients. Like Dr. Vijay, nothing makes Dr. Cassidy happier than knowing how positively she impacts her patients’ lives. “Not very many people are excited about having surgery,” she said. “But with plastic surgery, you’re able to help restore or give something back to them, so many patients are excited and looking forward to their procedures.” Naturally, patients may feel nervous even for elective operations. However, Drs. Vijay and Cassidy work hard to alleviate any fears by offering honest counsel, giving continuous care and truly getting to know their patients and families. In fact, they often develop such close relationships with patients that they keep in contact even after surgeries and follow-up proce-

dures have been completed. When Dr. Cassidy recently had her baby, she received support and gifts, such as cards and baby blankets, from current and former patients in addition to Dr. Vijay and the Corpus Christi Institute of Cosmetic & Plastic Surgery staff. This collegial atmosphere extends to the licensed aestheticians, Angelica Mendez and Lindsay Garcia. These stylish skincare experts are masters of their craft. Angelica is particularly passionate about skincare from her own personal experience growing up as a teenager with acne. Now she uses her expertise to help others in similar situations. “There’s always something you can do for your skin,” she said, “and it’s not a battle you have to fight on your own.” Lindsay – who grew up in Japan, where skincare is a high priority – has worked at other medical spas in the area. She praised Corpus Christi Institute of Cosmetic & Plastic Surgery as a step above the rest, due largely to the symbiotic relationship between the aestheticians and the surgeons. “We all work together to offer patients what they need,” she said. “Plus, we’re qualified to deal with much more severe cases than a typical spa can handle!”

“

THERE’S ONLY ONE SPECIALTY THAT COMBINES FORM AND FUNCTION, AND THAT’S PLASTIC SURGERY.”

For more information about staff and services at the CORPUS CHRISTI INSTITUTE OF COSMETIC & PLASTIC SURGERY, visit www.corpusplasticsurgery.com, call 361-888-7417 or follow them on Facebook.

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PROFILE

GAME-CHANGER The generosity of a longtime Corpus Christi doctor brings urology suite renovations and new technology to CHRISTUS Health. By: Steven Alford Photos by: Jason Page Photography

“

OUR COMMITMENT IS TO PROVIDE THE HIGHESTQUALITY CARE TO ALL THAT WE ARE PRIVILEGED TO SERVE.”

When his own need for a surgical procedure arose, longtime CHRISTUS Spohn physician, Dr. John Hornung, was told by his own doctor that the specialized equipment was not available in the Coastal Bend. It was perfect timing, really, according to Hornung: He was already looking to find a way to donate to the hospital system where he began his career decades before, leading to his own success in the community. “I was ready to give back,” he said. “The hospital was building a new tower, and there was this tool that not only I needed, but I knew others in the community would benefit from for years to come.” The doctor’s generosity has helped provide for renovations and new technology inside two urology suites at CHRISTUS Spohn Hospital Corpus Christi-Shoreline, which houses the most advanced technology available to treat a range of urologic conditions. The new innovations include a Blue Light Cystoscopy machine and the AquaBeam Robotic System. Blue Light Cystoscopy is a unique technology to detect and diagnose tumors in the bladder, which uses enhanced imaging to help urologists find bladder tumors more easily than standard cystoscopy. And the AquaBeam Robotic System utilizes water technology to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a common prostate problem affecting about 50 percent of men between the ages of 51 and 60 and up to 90 percent of men older than 80. The AquaBeam Robotic System is a cutting-edge, minimally invasive surgical robot, which utilizes a high-velocity waterjet to remove prostate tissue safely and effectively. CHRISTUS Spohn is only the second health system in Texas to offer this breakthrough medical advancement. Dr. Jason Fisher is a well-trained urologist who practices at CHRISTUS Spohn Hospital-Shoreline. He says the new technology made possible by Hornung is a game changer for the way he and his colleagues can treat a range of urologic conditions right here in South Texas.

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“The first day we utilized this new equipment, we brought in a gentleman and detected an entire area of tumor that we were unable to see with the traditional cystoscopy,” Fisher said. “Now, a year later, he is cancer free. That’s how fast this equipment is making an impact.” The two urology suites are housed in the Shoreline Pavilion OR, part of new construction for the new North Tower at CHRISTUS Spohn Hospital-Shoreline, an ultramodern 10-story facility housing the most advanced medical technology south of San Antonio. The new CHRISTUS Spohn Tower and Pavilion renovations are part of a $335 million investment in the health of the community, made possible by CHRISTUS Health and the generosity of local philanthropy, like that of Hornung. CHRISTUS Spohn leaders are grateful for the extraordinary gift from Hornung that will provide life-changing treatments for the Coastal Bend residents suffering from bladder and prostate conditions. “Our commitment is to provide the highest-quality care to all that we are privileged to serve,” added Dr. Osbert Blow, president and chief medical officer for CHRISTUS Spohn Health System. “Thanks to Dr. Hornung’s generosity, we are now able to provide the most advanced medical urologic technology, which will save lives right here in our community.”

About CHRISTUS Spohn Health System At CHRISTUS Health, we deliver a complete healing experience that respects the individual. We serve our communities with dignity, and with a good deal of admiration. CHRISTUS Health is a Catholic, not-for-profit system made up of more than 600 centers, including longterm care facilities, community hospitals, walk-in clinics and health ministries. We are a community 45,000 strong, with over 15,000 physicians providing individualized care. Sponsored by the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word in Houston and San Antonio and the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth, our mission is to extend the healing ministry of Jesus Christ to every individual we serve. CHRISTUS Spohn Health System is the region’s largest hospital system in South Texas, consisting of six hospital campuses throughout the Coastal Bend, a cancer center and the new Dr. Hector P. Garcia Memorial Family Health Center. The health system is consistently ranked a health care leader in the area, and has received national recognition for several pioneering programs, including trauma, cardiac care, clinical excellence and oncology. For more than 100 years, CHRISTUS Spohn has been distinguished by its high-caliber staff and affiliated physicians, its comprehensive and innovative services and its long history of responding to the needs of the community it serves. For additional information, visit www.christusspohn.org.

For more information about urological services provided at CHRISTUS Spohn Health System, please visit www.christushealth.org/services-treatments/urology.

I N S P I R E C O A S TA L B E N D M A G . C O M

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

THANKFULNESS How gratitude can help your health By: ERIN WILDER

icine,” says Robert A. Emmons, Ph.D., a professor of psychology at University of California-Davis and author of “The Little Book of Gratitude.” “Clinical trials indicate that the practice of gratitude can have dramatic and lasting effects in a person’s life. It can lower blood pressure and improve immune function ... Grateful people engage in more exercise, have better dietary behaviors, are less likely to smoke and abuse alcohol and have higher rates of medication adherence.” Dang, being grateful is the gift that seriously keeps on giving, right? Here’s a simple way to get started: Write these down before you go to bed or share them around the dinner table. In five minutes, you can practice gratitude from the HEART:

about eight million breaths a year? Your feet can take you up a mountain; your arms can hold someone you love. Take a minute to marvel at the finely tuned machinery of your body.

Health: What did your body do for you today? Did you know you take

Relationship: Who do you look forward to seeing? Is it someone who sets your

Eat: What did you feed your body to nourish yourself today? Was it an old favorite, something you made or something new and different? If you eat three meals a day, you’ll eat about a thousand meals this year! Take a minute to savor an especially yummy meal. Activity: What did you do that you really enjoyed today? Did you give it your all at the gym or take a quiet moment while sitting in traffic to reflect? Take a minute to think back on one particularly awesome moment.

heart on fire, always has a smile for you, has your back or makes you laugh until you cry? Take a minute to smile as you think about this special person. Time: What are you doing right now? Every single day, you wake up with 24 brand-new hours. The past is history, the future is a mystery and today is a gift. That’s why they call it the present! Take a minute to be thankful for the gift of time. Let’s do this, and be healthy for good!

“

GRATITUDE IS GOOD MEDICINE.”

References 1. Journal of Cognition and Emotion, Negative processing biases predict subsequent depressive symptoms. http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/ abs/10.1080/02699930143000554 2.

National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Mental Health, Chronic Illness & Mental Health. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/chronic-illness-mental-health/index.shtml

National Institutes of Health, National Library of Medicine, Not all emotions are created equal: The negativity bias in social-emotional development https:// www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3652533/ and Agency Attribution in Infancy: Evidence for a Negativity Bias https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/ articles/PMC4011708/.

American Heart Association News, Gratitude is a healthy attitude.

ERIN WILDER is the executive director of the Corpus Christi American Heart and Stroke Association. To learn more, visit the American Heart Association online at www.heart.org.

I N S P I R E C O A S TA L B E N D M A G . C O M

PHOTO COURTESY OF CORPUS CHRISTI AMERICAN HEART AND STROKE ASSOCIATION

“

ratitude” is more than a buzzword. It’s a habit and practice that may actually change your perception of well-being. Do you ever feel like you just can’t catch a break? You know – the truck that cut you off, the meal that didn’t turn out, the weird feedback you got from your boss? Do you sometimes feel negative and cynical about life? Sure, we all do this a little, but doing it a lot can lead to depression, which is linked to poor heart health, more inflammation and even a weaker immune system. Yikes! Some neuroscience experts think our brains focus on negative information as a way to remember pain so we can avoid it in the future and stay safe. They call this the “negativity bias.” To balance out this natural tendency, we can practice gratitude. “Gratitude is good med-

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

CULTURE OF WELLNESS The Port of Corpus Christi empowers employees to take charge of their health. By: TJ GONZALES

wellness program, of course, is achieving a high participation rate. More than 90 percent of port employees participate in the wellness program. CHRISTUS Spohn officials have said organizations should aim for participation rates of 85 percent or higher to see improved employee health and significant reductions in health care costs. The Port of Corpus Christi’s employee-led wellness committee fosters a peer-to-peer network supportive of ideas, suggestions and collaboration among all levels of employees. This helps them empower, prepare and support team members in building a culture of well-being. Furthermore, the port’s senior leadership

For more information, email tj@pocca.com.

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF PORT CHRISTI CHRISTI

n the corporate world, company wellness programs serve an important role: helping employees lead healthier and happier lives. Studies have also shown the benefits to implementing such programs, along with associated amenities and incentives. Health care costs are reduced, and employees have increased morale, which improves productivity. This makes a wellness program also good business. The Port of Corpus Christi strives to be the region’s healthiest employer by building a comprehensive and innovative wellness program that takes employee health and well-being to the next level. The mission statement of the port’s wellness program asserts, “Our mission is to foster a productive and enjoyable work environment through the promotion of physical activity, nutritional education and mental wellness.” Since its inception in 2007, the “Taking Charge of Your Health” Wellness Program has evolved from a concept to a robust initiative providing results-oriented programming for employees. CHRISTUS Spohn Health System has been instrumental in guiding the port. “The effectiveness of any organization is dependent upon the health and productivity of its employees,” CHRISTUS Spohn Health System notes. “Taking steps to protect and improve their health is good business and pays real dividends in lower health care costs, less sickness and work-loss time, improved productivity and improved morale.” A critical factor in the success of any

team – led by Chief Executive Officer Sean Strawbridge – hits the target of supporting wellness and making a name for the port as one of the healthiest employers in the region. The leaders at the Port of Corpus Christi are deeply committed to the wellness of employees, and they serve as role models of wellness in their lives. The leadership team also exemplifies the four characteristics the Wellness Council of America (WELCOA) uses to measure senior level support. Those are: Communication wellness practices Resource allocation for wellness programming Delegation practices (employee-led wellness committee) Promotion of personal health practices In that last category, port employees – including leadership – regularly volunteer at walk, run and bike events in the area. The Port of Corpus Christi – through its employee-led wellness committee and partnership with CHRISTUS Spohn – offers nutrition classes, telehealth services, health club membership discounts, onsite wellness screenings and wellness coaches. From day one, healthy lifestyle choices are promoted, and new employees assimilate into the wellness culture. Incentives are earned for documented physical activi-

It's all we do!

“

THE EFFECTIVENESS OF ANY ORGANIZATION IS DEPENDENT UPON THE HEALTH AND PRODUCTIVITY OF ITS EMPLOYEES.”

ty and participative goal setting with a CHRISTUS Spohn nurse. The program is regularly evaluated for continual improvement to foster a healthier, more engaged workforce. The wellness program builds a stronger organization by enhancing productivity, lowering absenteeism and increasing employee engagement. A robust wellness initiative engages employees and improves retention rates. Corporate wellness programs are also a key benefit for building a pipeline of talent. The Port of Corpus Christi is proud of the progress it has made in this area, and it continues to strive to be a healthiest employer in the region.

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

UPGRADE YOUR METABOLISM How to boost your aging metabolism without exercising more By: LISA WRIGHT

ANY “EXTRA” ACTIVITY YOU DO DURING THE DAY CAN BURN UP TO HUNDREDS OF EXTRA CALORIES THROUGHOUT THE DAY.

Your basal metabolism: These are the calories your body burns to power your organs and physiological functions. We’re talking calories that account for between 60 and 75 percent of your daily calorie expenditure. (Interesting fact: Your liver, brain and skeletal muscle are the top three calorie burners.)

Digesting your food: About 10 percent of your daily calorie intake goes to digest your food! This includes breaking it down, converting it into energy and going through the process of storing it as fat, if not immediately used.

Physical activity: This category of calorie burn is broken into two groups: calories you burn while you’re exercising (and directly after), and calories you burn while you’re doing other things like walking around, doing chores, engaging in hobbies, etc. Physical activity accounts for between 15 to 30 percent of your total daily energy expenditure.

That very last category – the calories you burn while you’re not working out – includes the calories I’m talking about today. It’s called non-exercise activity thermogenesis (NEAT), and it can make a huge difference in maintaining or losing weight. This is because any “extra” activity you do during the day (taking a shower, walking up the stairs, washing the dishes, doing laundry, playing with kids/pets, etc.) versus sitting down can add up to hundreds of extra calories burned throughout the day. Just how many calories you burn depends on how much you weigh and how hard you are working. Doing household chores burns between 150 and 300 calories an hour, while working in the yard can burn 200 to 600 depending on whether you’re weeding, raking,

chopping down trees, etc. Compare that to spending time parked on the couch watching TV: You burn 70 calories an hour sitting, and just 45 calories an hour lying down. But here’s the amazing part: You have an enzyme called lipoprotein lipase that helps your body turn stored fat into energy. When you’re not very active, you have less of it in your body – but staying active during the day will help keep your levels up. So basically: If you want to keep your metabolism up, move more! If you sit all day for work, this is incredibly important! It’s also especially important if you’ve found yourself slipping into a “doing less” rut because of stress, fatigue or other issues. You can find ways to sneak more activity into your day, whether it’s taking the stairs versus the elevator, parking farther away from work/stores, standing up when you normally would sit, walking your dog, playing with your children, etc. Over time, these little upgrades in your activity will pay off! So next time you’re tempted to binge-watch a season of your favorite show on Netflix, break up that binge with some movement between shows!

For more information, you may contact LISA WRIGHT, FAS, at Your Personal Best Training Studio. Call 361-857-5087 or visit www.ypbtrainingstudio.com.

I N S P I R E C O A S TA L B E N D M A G . C O M

PHOTOS COURTESY OF LISA WRIGHT

his fall, Your Personal Best Training Studio is focusing our efforts on making upgrades to our habits to level up our wellness, fitness and our lives! I have some great news for the over-50 crowd (and, well, anybody) about how you can upgrade your metabolism – the number of calories you burn a day – that has absolutely nothing to do with your diet or your workouts. But first, here’s a little background! Your body burns calories to fuel many things for the day:

Would you like a free copy of our newest book, “Strong Body Strong Mind”? It might help you get excited about your health, your age and your future! I am grateful you are reading my articles in this magazine. There’s even a “special” offer on page 95 for you to give us a try. Reach out for your copy, or drop by our studio today!

Maybe you are over 50 and having trouble with the daily living activities (DLAs) that I mentioned in this article. Improving your function in daily living is where we come in! It’s what we specialize in, and it sets us apart from the traditional personal trainers. Or, maybe all you want is to accelerate your results! Our programs at Your Personal Best Training Studio, led by a team of certified functional aging specialists, are designed to help men and women over 50 years old to move better, feel better and age actively. You’ll be able to do all the things you want to do for the rest of your life – guaranteed! Not local? Find a certified functional aging specialist (FAS) near you at https://functionalaginginstitute.com/find-a-registered-professional/.

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MEET LISA Lisa Grace Wright, CFT, FAS, is the CEO of L.G.W. Fitness Inc., a published author, a functional aging specialist and a business coach for the Functional Aging Institute. Through strategic planning and marketing consulting, she helps fitness business owners, from small studios to big-box gyms, create a compelling and effective business plan to inspire an aging population to take action toward their health. Over the last 20 years, she has built her brand, Your Personal Best, in Corpus Christi, Texas, and has expanded her influence across the nation and Canada, equipping others like herself who want to change lives and promote aging actively.

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EXPRESSIONS OF INSPIRATION

TRUE LEADERSHIP

Financial industry veteran, Dick McCracken, has a passion for following the markets and giving back to the greater community. By: JACQUELINE GONZALES

W. RICHARD “DICK” MCCRACKEN has been in the financial industry for over 50 years, where he serves as senior financial advisor for Merrill Lynch. The son of the managing editor for the Corpus Christi newspaper, Dick had an early start in his love for stocks. His love of baseball and the disappointing loss of his favorite team inspired him to inquire about stocks.

I N S P I R E C O A S TA L B E N D M A G . C O M

chines used when he first began his career, and how much the business has changed over time. He recalls that “the cost was $9 per share, and if you made $25,000 in one year, you made it big.” Individuals were much more involved back in the 1960s and worked closer in groups due to the lack of private offices. “Dick has seen it all, and it’s been a pleasure working with him,” says Luciano Salazar. “I’ve learned many things from him.” The passion Dick has for his job has allowed him to build and maintain a good working relationship with his colleagues, and, in turn, continues to inspire and motivate them daily. According to his manager, Jay Wise, “we are all here with Merrill Lynch today because of Mr. McCracken and his generation of financial advisors. He casts an amazing historical shadow over our office.” Although Dick is one of the primary members of the McCracken Salazar Group, currently, he has chosen to remain in a less active role, serving as senior advisor to the group. He remains part of the group he built over his tenure in the business, and he loves to be involved in keeping an eye on the market. A naturally social person, Dick enjoys human interaction and being involved in philanthropic organizations. He offers his best advice: “Just get involved with everything. Try to find something you really love and get involved in work and outside things. Get to know all about what is going on in the community.”

“

WE ARE ALL HERE WITH MERRILL LYNCH TODAY BECAUSE OF MR. MCCRACKEN AND HIS GENERATION OF FINANCIAL ADVISORS. HE CASTS AN AMAZING HISTORICAL SHADOW OVER OUR OFFICE.”

PHOTOS COURTESY OF DICK MCCRACKEN

The pivotal moment that sparked his love of stocks was his introduction to a man who worked in the stock market, where he received five shares of stock. At that point, he became completely interested in the stock market and began working for his father with the local newspaper. Afterward, he began working with the Associated Press commercial photo division in Houston, a co-op worldwide picture service where he sold pictures for investment. Houston wasn’t very big in 1960, and his financial efforts were not very lucrative, so he took the opportunity to move to New York City after he was offered a job with a manager he befriended. The opportunity in New York City didn’t turn out as he planned, and after his first child was born, he and his wife made the choice to move to Corpus Christi in 1966. He joined Merrill Lynch, ultimately doing what he loved to do most: working in the stock market. Merrill Lynch is an American investing and wealth management division of Bank of America, and the Corpus Christi branch is fortunate to have the McCracken Salazar Group as one of their many financial advising teams. The group, originally led by Dick, teamed up in 2009, and consists of Dick; his son, Kevin; and colleagues, Luciano Salazar and Anne Hale. In his 53 years of experience, Dick has seen many changes in the stock market, including the historical 20 percent drop in stock in October 1987. He recalls the ticker tape machines and the teletimer news ma-

W. RICHARD “DICK” MCCRACKEN HAS BEEN IN THE FINANCIAL INDUSTRY FOR OVER 50 YEARS, WHERE HE SERVES AS SENIOR FINANCIAL ADVISOR FOR MERRILL LYNCH.

His love of people and social interaction keeps him in good spirits, and has led him to become a member of the Corpus Christi Rotary Club. The motto, “we are business and community leaders dedicated to making a positive difference through service,” mirrors the inspirational manner in which Dick lives his life. According to his colleague, Anne Hale, “being a happy and content person, as Mr. McCracken is, enables him to help others within our community, whether it is by financial means, providing inspiration or physical labor.” Dick has devoted 46 years to the rotary club and serves on the board in the programs division. In addition to his service in the rotary club, he and his wife, Lucy, also provide financial support to the Gulf Coast Humane Society, and are very involved in the Corpus Christi Metro Ministries and the Church of the Good Shepherd. A genuine inspiration, he remains positive in the face of adversity, as he battles pancreatic cancer, while continuing to live by his mantra, “the best is yet to come.” The many relationships he’s built through his social interactions proved beneficial during this time. Gloria Hicks, Mel Klein and a few other board members at MD Anderson helped him navigate through his illness and educated him on proper lifestyle choices. After a successful Whipple surgery, Dick continues to maintain a healthy lifestyle while enjoying his family and his passion with the great team he has built. Dick continues to be true to his legacy and has no plans to retire from the work he loves to do. “I don’t hunt, golf, fish or play tennis. This is my hobby.” His dedication to his life’s work and the community is the blueprint that will continue to allow this community to grow for the benefit of all.

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The Thousandth Man 0NE man in a thousand, Solomon says. Will stick more close than a brother. And it's worth while seeking him half your days If you find him before the other. Nine hundred and ninety-nine depend On what the world sees in you, But the Thousandth Man will stand your friend With the whole round world agin you. 'Tis neither promise nor prayer nor show Will settle the finding for 'ee. Nine hundred and ninety-nine of 'em go By your looks, or your acts, or your glory. But if he finds you and you find him, The rest of the world don't matter; For the Thousandth Man will sink or swim With you in any water. You can use his purse with no more talk Than he uses yours for his spendings, And laugh and meet in your daily walk As though there had been no lendings. Nine hundred and ninety-nine of 'em call For silver and gold in their dealings; But the Thousandth Man he's worth 'em all Because you can show him your feelings. His wrong's your wrong, and his right's your right, In season or out of season. Stand up and back it in all men's sight With that for your only reason! Nine hundred and ninety-nine can't bide The shame or mocking or laughter, But the Thousandth Man will stand by your side To the gallows-foot - and after! - KIPLING

In Honor of Dick McCracken Love your friends, Conni Geary & Jay Wise

I N S P I R E C O A S TA L B E N D M A G . C O M

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