Just for Women newspaper supplement

just for

WOMEN

Fall 2017

2

Just For Women • October 4, 2O17

HELP BEAT BREAST CANCER. PINK OUT Tampa Bay is a movement to help raise awareness about the importance of early detection of breast cancer. Most importantly, by taking the time to care for yourself, you can be sure you’ll be there for your family and the ones you love.

Go to PinkOutTampaBay.com today and schedule your annual screening mammogram with these three easy steps.

2 Choose an appointment time convenient for you 3 Confirm your appointment Through early detection, more and more women are beating this disease every day.

Get screened today.

FHWFR-10204

1 Choose a location near you

3

Just For Women • October 4, 2O17

Breast cancer awareness empowering women and saving lives Second most common cancer among women

BY SUZETTE PORTER Tampa Bay Newspapers

Cancer starts when cells begin to grow out of control. Early detection improves chances of surviving.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is all about saving lives.

Breast cancer is the second most common type of cancer in women in the United States.

Thanks to increasing awareness and continuing research, more women are surviving this deadly disease than ever before.

Death rates from breast cancer declined 35 percent from 1990-2011. Still, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 40,000 women and 400 men in the U.S. die each year from the disease.

Since 1985, October has been Breast Cancer Awareness Month – a time to learn more about the disease and raise funds for research. It is also a time to celebrate survivors.

Organizers hope by increasing awareness, more women will become knowledgeable about breast cancer, as well as prevention and risk factors, and be motivated to get screenings.

Early detection saves lives.

The basics Each year, about 220,000 cases of breast cancer are diagnosed in women and about 2,000 in men. The type varies depending on which cells in the breast grow out of control and where. Most cancers begin in the ducts – the tubes that carry the milk to the nipple – or lobules, which are the glands that produce milk.

Breast cancer can get into the blood or lymph system and spread to other parts of the body. The more lymph nodes with cancer cells, the more likely it is that the cancer may be found in other organs as well.

CDC

Since 1985, October has been Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Organizers hope by increasing awareness, more women will become knowledgeable about breast cancer, as well as prevention and risk factors, and be motivated to get screenings. Early detection saves lives.

It is important to find the cancer before it spreads to other parts of the body, which doctors will describe as metastasized.

Symptoms and early detection Women should be very familiar with their breasts – how they look and how they feel.

The most common symptom is a lump, but not all lumps are cancerous. Still, women should visit their doctor as soon as possible to know for sure.

Other symptoms include swelling, skin irritation or dimpling, pain, nipple retraction, redness or thickening of the nipple or skin on the breast, and discharge of anything from the nipple except breast milk. If breast cancer has spread to the lymph nodes, a lump or swelling may be found under the arm or around the collarbone.

Breast self-exams don’t take the place of having a mammogram, which can detect problems before symptoms occur.

Health experts recommend that women between the ages of 40-44 consider having an annual mammogram. Women ages 45-54 should get one every

year, and women 55 and older should have a mammogram every other year.

Low income, uninsured women in Pinellas who are between the ages of 50-64 can apply to receive free breast cancer screenings and mammograms through the Health Department. Call 727-824-6917.

Other screenings include ultrasounds, MRI scans, experimental breast imaging and biopsies. Women who have a higher risk due to personal or family history should talk to their doctor for screening recommendations.

Risk factors and prevention The risk of breast cancer increases with age. The average age when a woman is diagnosed is 61. Men are usually diagnosed between ages 60 and 70.

Personal and family history or changes in genes increase the risk of developing the disease, as do a host of other factors.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month aims at empowering women with knowledge about how to reduce their risk. Women can’t stop the aging process or change inherited genes, but

they can take a number of positive steps aimed at prevention.

For example, drinking alcohol has been linked to breast cancer. The American Cancer Society says risk increases depending on how much alcohol one might drink. A comparison of non-drinkers with women who drink one alcoholic beverage a day shows a very small increase in risk.

But women who drink twofive drinks a day have about 1 1/2 times the risk. It is recommended that women have no more than one drink a day. A drink is defined as 12 ounces of regular beer, 5 ounces of wine or 1.5 ounces of 80 proof distilled spirits.

Physical activity is another lifestyle factor involved in increased risk of breast cancer.

According to the ACS, exercise reduces risk. One study showed 1 1/4-2 1/2 hours of brisk walking a week would reduce risk by 18 percent. Walking 10 hours a week reduced risk even more.

The recommendation is to get at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous activity each week. Other recommended activities include weight lifting, stretching or yoga.

Maintaining a healthy weight

also plays a part in elevated risk, especially after menopause.

And women who gained weight as an adult have a greater risk compared to women who have been overweight since childhood. Having excess weight around the waist area increases risk compared to having the same amount of fat in the hips and thighs. Overweight women oftentimes have higher blood insulin levels, another factor linked to breast cancer.

Women who never had a child and women who had their first child after age 30 have a slightly higher risk. Women who have had many pregnancies and women who became pregnant at an early age have a reduced risk.

Some studies point to a slightly lower risk for women who breastfeed for at least 1 1/2 to 2 years; however, not enough information is available to say for sure.

Women who have taken birth control pills have a slightly higher risk of getting breast cancer compared to women who never used them. For women who stop taking the pill, the risk goes down to normal after time, and women who have stopped for 10 years have no increased risk.

Some studies show taking the birth control shot (Depo-Provera) increases risk, which goes away five years after women stop taking the 90-day injections. Some evidence exists of an increased risk from using a hormone-releasing IUD. Use of a combined hormone therapy after menopause can boost the chances of getting breast cancer and it may increase chances of being diagnosed when cancer is at a more advanced stage. Risk levels return to normal five years after stopping treatment. Some increased risk also is evident with estrogen therapy alone.

Women are urged to talk to their doctor about the benefits and risks.

4

Just For Women • October 4, 2O17

Lower your risk of breast cancer THE AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY

American Cancer Society screenings recommendations for women at average breast cancer risk. These guidelines are for women at average risk for breast cancer.

A woman at average risk doesn’t have a personal history of breast cancer, a strong family history of breast cancer, or a genetic mutation known to increase risk of breast cancer, such as BRCA, and has not had chest radiation therapy before the age of 30. (See below for guidelines for women at higher than average risk.)

Women between 40 and 44 have the option to start screening with a mammogram every year.

Women 45 to 54 should get mammograms every year.

Women 55 and older can switch to a mammogram every other year, or they can choose to continue yearly mammograms. Screening should continue as long as a woman is in good health and is expected to live 10 more years or longer.

All women should understand what to expect when getting a mammogram for breast cancer screening – what the test can and cannot do.

Mammograms Regular mammograms can help find breast cancer at an early stage, when treatment is most successful. A mammogram can find breast changes that could be cancer years before physical symptoms develop. Results from many decades of research clearly show that women who have regular mammograms are more likely to have breast cancer found early, are less likely to need aggressive treatment like surgery to remove the breast (mastectomy) and chemotherapy,

and are more likely to be cured.

Mammograms are not perfect.

They miss some cancers. And sometimes a woman will be need more tests to find out if something found on a mammogram is or is not cancer. There’s also a small possibility of being diagnosed with a cancer that never would have caused any problems had it not been found during screening. It‘s important that women getting mammograms know what to expect and understand the benefits and limitations of screening.

Clinical breast exam and breast self-exam Research has not shown a clear benefit of physical breast exams done by either a health professional or by yourself for breast cancer screening. There is very little evidence that these tests help find breast cancer early when women also get screening mammograms. Because of this, a regular clinical breast exam and breast self-exam are not recommended. Still, all women should be familiar with how their breasts normally look and feel and report any changes to a health care provider right away.

American Cancer Society screening recommendations for women at higher than average risk.

Women who are at high risk for breast cancer based on certain factors should get an MRI and a mammogram every year. This includes women who: • Have a lifetime risk of breast cancer of about 20 percent to 25 percent or greater, according to risk assessment tools that are based mainly on family history (such as the Claus model – see

Barbara A. Epstein & Associates, P.A.

Wills • Trusts • Probate • Guardianship Durable Powers of Attorney • Nursing Home Medicaid

Barbara A. Epstein Mobile Elder Law Attorney Serving North Pinellas and Pasco Counties

5347 Main Street, Suite 201 • New Port Richey, FL 34652 Pasco 727.845.8433 • Pinellas 727.733.0754

below) • Have a known BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation • Have a first-degree relative (parent, brother, sister, or child) with a BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation, and have not had genetic testing themselves • Had radiation therapy to the chest when they were between the ages of 10 and 30 years • Have Li-Fraumeni syndrome, Cowden syndrome, or Bannayan-Riley-Ruvalcaba syndrome, or have first-degree relatives with one of these syndromes The American Cancer Societ y recommends against MRI screening for women whose lifetime risk of breast cancer is less than 15 percent.

There’s not enough evidence to make a recommendation for or against yearly MRI screening for women who have a moderately increased risk of breast cancer (a lifetime risk of 15% to 20% according to risk assessment tools that are based mainly on family history) or who may be at increased risk of breast cancer based on certain factors, such as: • Having a personal history of breast cancer, ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS), atypical ductal hyperplasia (ADH), or atypical lobular hyperplasia (ALH) • Having “extremely” or “heterogeneously” dense breasts as seen on a mammogram If MRI is used, it should be in addition to, not instead of, a screening mammogram. This is because although an MRI is more likely to detect cancer than a mammogram, it may still miss some cancers

that a mammogram would detect.

Most women at high risk should begin screening with MRI and mammograms when they are 30 and continue for as long as they are in good health.

But a woman at high risk should make the decision to start with her health care providers, taking into account personal circumstances and preferences.

Tools used to assess breast cancer risk Several risk assessment tools, with names such as the Gail model, the Claus model, and the Tyrer-Cuzick model, are available to help health professionals estimate a woman’s breast cancer risk. These tools give approximate, rather than precise, estimates of breast cancer risk based on different combinations of risk factors and different data sets.

Because the different tools use different factors to estimate risk, they may give different risk estimates for the same woman. For example, the Gail model bases its risk estimates on certain personal risk factors, like current age, age at first menstrual period and history of prior breast biopsies, along with any history of breast cancer in first-degree relatives. In contrast, the Claus model estimates risk based only on family history of breast cancer in both first and second-degree relatives. These 2 models could easily give different estimates for the same person.

Risk assessment tools (like the Gail model, for example) that are not based mainly on family history are not appropriate to use with the ACS guidelines to decide if a woman should have MRI screening. The use of any of the risk assessment tools and its results should be discussed by a woman with her health care provider.

CANADA DRUGS U.S. DISCOUNT DRUGS 8397 Northcliff Blvd., Spring Hill, FL 34606 • (352) 683-4446

SAVE 30% - 80% OFF SAVE GAS!

U.S. PHARMACY PRICES USE MAIL ORDER! Evista ................ 60mg ......... #90...........................................$93.24 Generic Tamoxifen ......... 20mg ......... #100.........................................$47.39 Generic Levtrozole......... 2.5mg ........ #90...........................................$34.36 Generic Aromasin........... 25mg ......... #90........................................... $130.77 Brand Methotrexate ... 2.5mg ........ #90...........................................$75.25 Generic Arimidex ........... 1mg ........... #90...........................................$34.80 Generic Prices subject to change without notice.

5

Just For Women • October 4, 2O17

Kathy Wright finds better quality of life comes naturally

CARL ORTH/STAFF

Kathy Wright shows some of the natural food choices that Wright’s Natural Market has added.

Wright’s Natural Market opened 23 years ago

BY CARL ORTH Suncoast News assistant editor NEW PORT RICHEY — Kathy Wright not only co-owns Wright’s Natural Market, she also shops for her own natural-food groceries at the store to go on the family dinner table.

For 23 years, she and husband Jeff have operated the store. After offering supplements only, the store has added produce, bulk foods, herbs, spices, teas, staples, milk and many other items in its recent incarnations.

The store hopes to expand more with a deli and prepared foods at a new location on Main Street, possibly by the end of this year.

Kathy Wright says she tries to follow the same advice she might recommend to customers.

“My motto is this: you’re either going to pay for it on the front end” by buying better quality foods, “or you’re going

to pay for it on the back end” with more trips to doctors.

Wright strives for a proactive attitude. She’d rather not feel crappy in the first place and then try to feel better. “You’re spending less money on health care. And you have more joy in your life because you feel good.”

CARL ORTH/STAFF

Customers can get tips inside the store at Wright’s Natural Market and its online resources.

Customers might seek weight loss, natural painkillers, doit-yourself hair and skin products to avoid allergic reactions and many other goals. Or they might seek better food to put on the family dinner table.

“We’re not about curing disease, but just having the best quality of life possible,” Wright said.

She’s grateful to see some doctors are adopting an integrated approach between prescription drugs and supplements. For instance, some statin drugs might deplete the body’s caches of Coenzyme Q10. “You’re getting the best of both worlds.”

Family affair The store has been quite a family affair ever since the Wrights bought an existing supplements store in 1994.

Their three grown children, Brandon, Myles and Meghan, practically grew up along store aisles. The Wrights have a “bonus daughter,” Cheyenne, they took under their wing.

The Wrights have a grandson, Dominick, the 4-year-old son of Brandon.

Meghan, now 27, works at the store, often researching products to verify quality before the store stocks them on shelves. Meghan also is going to school to become a licensed skin care manufacturer. “She has a passion for making her own things because she’s been so hyper sensitive herself from a little child.” She is very sensitive to corn starch used in some products.

Meghan is saving money to continue her journeys. “She’s my little world traveler,” mom Kathy beams. Meghan spent a year in Australia on a work visa.

She has gone on safari in Africa.

She has been to Ireland, London, Paris, Norway, Iceland and hopes to head back to England.

CARL ORTH/STAFF

Kathy Wright, co-owner of Wright’s Natural Market, with husband Jeff, recalls how the store started with supplements only in the 1990s before adding bulk foods, natural organic foods and more.

While scanning the family’s photo prints from the past 23 years, Wright laughs at her “goofy hair days,” such as Farah Fawcett wings.

She comes across an old print of one of the store’s most colorful characters from the 1990s, former Rockette dancer Josie Cavanaugh, who would come into the store dressed to the nines and spin down some of the aisles.

With only 840 square feet at the first location, it wasn’t long before the store, under the Wright’s Nutrients banner, moved in 1996 to a U.S. 19 location, before landing in the current storefront at 6630 U.S. 19 within the same shopping cen-

ter. The 5800 Main St. building, in downtown New Port Richey, will offer more space at 3,600 square feet, plus a possible sidewalk cafe out front.

“Jack actually grew up with this kind of background because his mom worked for the local coop,” Wright recalled about her husband. He has served as president of the national Natural Products Association, which answers to the Food and Drug Administration.

“He has been on the hill fighting” for some safeguards.

For 14 years, Kathy worked as a dental hygienist, but had to leave because of negative reactions to some of the chemicals

KATHY WRIGHT, Page 10

CARL ORTH/STAFF

Now adults in their 20s and 30s, the three Wright children practically grew up with the Wright’s Natural Market store since the 1990s.

Standing in front are Myles and Meghan with their folks Kathy and Jeff Wright in the back flanking eldest son Brandon.

6

Just For Women • October 4, 2O17

KIM DAME

NAMI Pasco Treasurer Nancy Whitener, left, Vice President Gloria Strother, Donna Morales. The Pasco unit of the alliance has been in operation 22 years.

Radiology Centers

When Was Your Last Mammogram?

Call Tampa's Premier Women's Imaging Facilities For Your Next Mammogram

Full Service Women's Imaging

• • • • • • •

Screening Mammography Diagnostic Mammography 3D Mammography Breast MRI Breast Biopsy Breast Ultrasound DEXA / Bone Density

(813) 24-TOWER

www.TowerRadiologyCenters.com

"Like" Tower Radiology on Facebook in October!

For every new fan, we will donate $2 to the American Cancer Societys Making Strides Against Breast Cancer.

Share it with your friends!

NAMI Pasco a beacon of support for mental illness Help organization runs on donations, volunteers

BY KIM DAME Suncoast News correspondent

When it comes to emotional strength, Donna Morales has it in reserves. The Port Richey mother of two admitted some of her assertion is born from rebellion against the stigma attached to mental illness.

Morales was diagnosed with bipolar disorder when she was 24. She believes it was triggered from her post traumatic stress disorder. PTSD was discovered after leaving an abusive relationship. She also suffers from anxiety and borderline personality disorder. But Morales refuses to let any one of those labels define her.

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, as many as one in four adults experiences a mental illness in a given year. And more than half have co-occurring mental illnesses.

So, Morales’ multiple challenges aren’t so unusual. And she took special proactive measures when approaching

her health challenges. But it wasn’t until she had children that her perspective changed. Getting healthy wasn’t just about her anymore.

“Just because I have this disorder doesn’t mean I’m a bad parent,” she said. “But some people will use it as an excuse.”

She worked hard to deliver the message that those with a mental illness can lead relatively normal lives. “It isn’t easy,” she said. “But it can be done.”

Morales sought refuge in the Pasco County chapter of NAMI when she heard about the resources for support they offered. She attended NAMI Basics, a 6-week workshop that helped her connect with others battling similar disorders.

Morales became very involved in her treatment plan, recognizing the importance of networking and peer support.

Then her youngest daughter showed signs of bipolar disorder at age 10, and Morales stepped it up even further by seeking family support through NAMI to help navigate the newest obstacles in her path.

Certain genes may render people more susceptible to developing bipolar disorder than others, according to studies.

And that might explain Morales’ heightened climb through the journey of mental

NAMI, Page 15

7

Just For Women • October 4, 2O17

NOW IN ITS 22ND YEAR, CANTERBURY FARMS NURSERY

is a 43 acre plant and tree nursery in Hudson that is open to the public specializing in most common landscape shrubs, trees, palms, tropicals, ground cover plants and more!

Annika Santangelo (co- owner) is the face and the backbone of Canterbury Farms and oversees daily operations, handles management duties and wears many other hats along with her husband, Peter. In their shared success is their amazing staff. They love to share their plant knowledge and aid you in all your plant and landscaping needs. Whether you’re a do- it- yourselfer or need it installed, we’ve got you covered!

free landscape estimates

For more information, call (727) 857-0242 or browse through CanterburyFarmsNursery.com. Visit Canterbury Farms Monday through Saturday at 14220 Thornwood Trail in Hudson (use the main entrance on 14607 Hays Road)

Don’t Wait. Get Checked.

Early Detection Saves Lives!

Schedule Your Mammogram Today

Find Lizzy James collection pieces at:

342 Main St. • Dunedin, FL 34698

727-733-4766

www.nancys-fancy.com

The Lizzy James Story:

During breast cancer treatment in 2011 Lizzy James channeled her energy and talent into creating unique artisan jewelry that can be worn as necklaces or bracelets.

Lizzy’s journey inspired her to design this collection of stylish, versatile pieces that celebrate the strength and resiliency in all of us.

FEEL GOOD ABOUT YOUR PURCHASE:

On top of supporting a product that is handmade in the USA, you can also feel good about every purchase. Lizzy James supports 14 different charities and growing, including the Susan G Koman Foundation,The Special Olympics and Shelter to Soldier.

Advantages Over Hospital: • Lower Costs • Quicker Results • Convenient Parking • No Waiting • Same Day Appointments

CENTER HOURS OF OPERATION: Mon. - Fri. 8am - 5pm

(352) 688-5860 Scheduling:

(352) 666-5031

For your convenience our Commercial Way office is now open on Saturdays from 8:00 am 3:00 pm for mammograms.

Now 3 Locations In Hernando & Pasco Counties To Serve You West Hernando Diagnostic & M.R. Center 3315 Commercial Way Spring Hill, FL 34606

Pasco Imaging & Open MRI Center 7615 Jacque Rd. (off Fivay Rd.) Hudson, FL 34667

Women’s Imaging Center 3389 Mariner Blvd.

Spring Hill, FL 34609

8

Just For Women • October 4, 2O17

Empathy. A powerful element in fighting cancer.

Jeanie Harris has been the caregiver. As a Registered Nurse and an Oncology Certified Nurse with Florida Cancer Specialists, she has spent her career educating, delivering medication, empathizing and holding the hands of her patients. So when Jeanie found a lump in her breast, she knew Florida Cancer Specialists was the place where she would get science-driven care and the personal attention she needed to fight cancer. Now with the experience of being a cancer survivor, she connects with her patients on a deeper level, and she has a fresh perspective on how special each patient feels at Florida Cancer Specialists. In October and all year, we honor all of those who have fought this awful disease and all of those caregivers who help them in the fight.

“I always knew Florida Cancer Specialists had quality caregivers, but being a patient gave me a fresh perspective.”

-Nurse, Patient & Breast Cancer Survivor

Where Hope is Powered by ScienceTM FindHopeHere.com

World-Class Medicine. Hometown Care.

Proud to serve patients at our six Pasco County locations.

Jorge Ayub, MD Sawsan G. Bishay, MD Mamta T. Choksi, MD Uday Dandamudi, MD Larry Gandle, MD

FCS-0739 - Print Resize_Suncoast News_10.5x11.indd 1

Vivian Griffin, MD Gajanan A. Kulkarni, MD Kapisthalam S. Kumar, MD Arthur Joseph Matzkowitz, MD

Joseph M. Sennabaum, MD Gerald H. Sokol, MD, MSc, FCP David Wenk, MD Gail Lynn Shaw Wright, MD, FACP, FCCP

9/25/17 2:32 PM

9

Just For Women • October 4, 2O17

Following tough path of breaking addiction Abby Taylor thought she couldn’t find help

BY KIM DAME Spring Hill Beacon correspondent

A

bby Taylor, 21, of St. Petersburg, has already witnessed her life spiral out of control, then regain purpose, as she fought to recover from a gripping drug addiction. It started when she was 15, experimenting with marijuana and alcohol and eventually settling on heroin and Xanax as her main drugs of choice.

“I was always hanging around the older crowd in my town and doing things the older kids did,” Taylor said. She experimented with opioids which opened her up to more illicit drugs. And at 18, she realized her addiction was out of control. “I had flunked out of college because I spent all my time doing whatever it took to get my next high.”

Her mind couldn’t focus, she was fixated on drugs and hitting an ugly bottom. “I knew I needed help, but honestly couldn't see a way of getting help, or that there was a different way to live. I was stuck.” She was also embarrassed because she was a young female addicted to drugs.

Taylor was lucky to have strong family support that helped clear her path to recovery. They stumbled on The Treehouse, a private, therapeutic treatment center, and called its hotline. There was a bed available and arrangements were made for Taylor to attend the 30-day inpatient program.

T

he Treehouse has facilities in Texas, Mississippi, Massachusetts and Ohio and an administrative call center in Tennessee. They also maintain an administrative office and a mobile crisis unit in the Tampa Bay Area. Taylor and her family were qualified through the local unit where her insurance was authorized and arrangements then made to fly to Texas where she was admitted.

“I was very scared to enter an addiction-based treatment center,” she remembered. Yet she took her recovery seriously, surrendered to the process and learned tools that would be vital to maintaining her sobriety.

But like many who fight extreme demons of addiction, Taylor wasn’t able to stay clean on her own for long. After leaving The Treehouse at the end of her treatment, she relapsed. It took several attempts at other treatments to get herself back on track toward a more stable recovery.

“I didn’t want to acknowledge that I had the tools that Treehouse taught me to stay sober,” she said. Once she surrendered and applied them, each day became easier. Taylor has been clean for eight months. She now works her 12step program by attending Narcotics Anonymous meet-

ings several times a week.

According to the federal Center for Disease Control and Prevention: • From 2000 through 2013, the age-adjusted rate for drug-poisoning deaths involving heroin nearly quadrupled from 0.7 deaths per 100,000 in 2000 to 2.7 deaths per 100,000 in 2013. Most of the increase occurred after 2010.

• The number of drug-poisoning deaths involving heroin was nearly four times higher for men (6,525 deaths) than women (1,732 deaths) in 2013.

• In 2000, non-Hispanic black persons aged 45–64 had the highest rate for drug-poisoning deaths involving heroin (2.0 per 100,000). In 2013, non-Hispanic white persons aged 18–44 had the highest rate (7.0 per 100,000).

• From 2000 through 2013, the age-adjusted rate for drug-poisoning deaths involving heroin increased for all regions of the country, with the greatest increase seen in the Midwest.

Treehouse Rehab draws clients from hotlines across the country, qualifying them through insurance and typically working with addicts in a 30-day inpatient treatment program.

Christena Lang, a licensed addiction therapist with The Treehouse, worked with Taylor during her treatment period. The facility uses a multitude of therapies, including group counseling, hands-on survival training and even yoga and holistic approaches to help the recovering addict take control of their own recovery.

A 30-day program isn’t always enough to keep the addict in proactive recovery, Lang said. Often it is all private insurance will pay for. So, Treehouse works to instill fundamentals with proven success.

B

ut the success of any recovery depends on the willingness and commitment of the client to remain clean. Treehouse provides networking resources and a team approach for continuing support of its alumni.

While Taylor didn’t stay clean after leaving Treehouse, her treatment was successful because she utilized many of the techniques she’d been taught to pull herself back out of active addiction.

Percentages of relapse in nearly every treatment scenario are high. And successful recovery after relapse isn’t guaranteed. But many in recovery are able to strengthen their commitments, utilize supports, identify their triggers and recover after relapse.

Taylor works a very strong recovery, attending meetings at least once a day through Narcotics Anonymous, NA, and Alcohol Anonymous, AA. She also openly discusses her struggles with substance abuse.

Like many of today’s struggling youth, the pressure to

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Although she wanted to break her addiction to heroin and the anti-anxiety drug Xanax, Abby Taylor struggled, but finally found, the help she needed.

fit in often leads to dangerous decisions with little understanding of future consequences.

B

ut Taylor is grateful she was given an opportunity to redirect her path and follow a journey to save her life. “I always felt like I was different, that I honestly didn't know who I was or who I was supposed to be,” she said, mimicking the insecurities often facing teens as they find their footing. “I had lots of friends growing up and a very normal childhood but something inside me always made me feel like the black sheep.”

Using became an escape. “When I found drugs I no longer cared about those things. I felt like I could fit in with whatever crowd I was in.”

Taylor is quick to pull away from any hint that she is glorifying drugs, however. While she found momentary comfort hiding behind her addiction, she knew she had to find a way out.

She was inspired by stories of others who sought treatment at Treehouse and found sobriety. “That helped me find hope when I thought all hope was lost.”

The Treehouse 24/7 hotline can be reached at 888-6147763. Visit the website at TreehouseRehab.org.

10

Just For Women • October 4, 2O17

it went through in your body. I had to take anatomy, physiology, macrobiology, so I was already in the health field. I was very interested in that.”

Outside the store, Wright does free community service programs at First Baptist Church, Calvary Worship, Morton Plant North Bay Hospital support groups, gyms and fitness centers, among other stints.

More health insights CARL ORTH/STAFF

Kathy Wright, left, shows the many bulk foods at Wright’s Natural Market.

Kathy Wright From Page 5

used in that field.

She and Jeff wound up meeting at a Publix store in Tallahassee where they worked while in college.

They both went back to school and became certified nutritionists.

Kathy was grateful that her original career in the dental hygiene field provided her insights to help customers.

“As a dental hygienist, part of my curriculum was nutrition, food science,” she recalled. “We had to know when food hit your mouth what did it turn into and everything the processes

Wright offers educational consultations with food journaling, weight loss tips and checkups of vitamins and supplements so a customer can the get biggest bang for buck.

Drug interaction consultations also are free by appointment to help people minimize any side effects.

For a fee, a doctor once a month will perform white blood cell tests. A drop of blood can reveal some 20 nutritional deficiencies.

“Not all fish oils are created equal in their level of active compounds,” Wright continued. Good brands of supplements will have purification processes. Omega oils should be purified to prevent heavy metals such as mercury or dioxins. Brands at their store follow Good Manufacturing Practices verified by third parties to test randomly through the process from quarantine to finished

product.

“We’re doing our due diligence (so) our customers can have that peace of mind,” Wright observed.

For instance, the Wrights check products against a list of possibly carcinogenic ingredients to avoid before products accepted. Meghan performs much of this research.

Health and beauty products: “Your skin is the largest organ of your body. You’re soaking all that stuff in and you’re not even putting it through the liver.” At least a person’s digestive tract can detoxify compounds through the liver. Applying something directly to your skin can result in larger concentrations.

Natural pain relief: “Curcum-

CARL ORTH/STAFF

Meghan Wright researches each product to verify quality before it is stocked at Wright’s Natural Market.

in, which is the active ingredient in turmeric, is your friend.”

This “super duper” ingredient “will attack any inflammatory condition,” Wright observes. Lots of scientific data shows its efficacy with no side effects in proper doses.

Ketogenic diet: For neurological problems, higher-fat diets, moderate proteins and very low carbs has helped minimize seizures in children over the decades. Research also is testing such diets with Navy divers who might face the bends from resurfacing too quickly.

The “clean fats — coconut oil, olive oil, avocado oil and omega-3 fatty acid oils, for instance — are good for your brain.

“Fat is what conducts the neurotransmitters in your brain. That’s what’s getting the signals from one place to another.”

The goal is to get the body to burn fats rather than carbohydrates.

Keeping children healthy: Wright talks to many mothers who say their offspring often get sick about three weeks after a school semester starts. Wright tries to offer tips so the youths – and their parents – don’t get run down in the first place.

Wright sent a “care box” with her son even when he went off to college. Myles, now 29, has not been on any antibiotics since he was 4 years old, all the way through graduate school.

JOSE CARDENAS

A concept drawing for Wright’s Natural Market planned new location at 5800 Main St. in downtown New Port Richey.

A hand-drawn sketch on a chalkboard within the store recently gave back-to-school tips, such as probiotics, Vitamin C and multi-vitamins to decrease chances of getting sick or to shorten recovery time. Recommended foods include kefir (a fermented milk drink), oranges, strawberries, leafy greens and broccoli.

Many online resources also can help direct people. Go online to www.wrightsnaturalmarket. com for the store’s main website.

Kathy maintains a Pinterest page at www.pinterest.com/ WNaturalMarket where she directs customers who need assistance with special-diet needs.

The Wright store Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ wrightsnaturalmarket has the most current information on new products, events and news.

Harvey Helping Hands LLC. ALL ABOUT AGING Advocacy for the Aging.

Meeting all your care needs with dignity, professionalism and honesty.

Comprehensive in home assessments and coordination of care.

727.877.9135

11

Just For Women • October 4, 2O17

DON’T SETTLE FOR LESS

www.theparkatchelsea.com Go to our web-site to apply on-line and view our floorplans.

www.harboroaksapt.com Go to our web-site to apply on-line and view our floorplans.

• • • • • • • • • • •

Spacious Floor Plans Ample Closet Space Located 1 mile from the beach Pet Friendly Private Driveways Washer and Dryer Hookups Attached Garages Fitness Center Screened-In Porches Vaulted Ceilings 2, 3 and 4 Bedroom Lofts & Townhomes

• Gated Access Community • Water, Sewer, Trash, and Cable INCLUDED! • One and Two Bedrooms Available • Sunrooms in Every Apartment • Large Walk-In Closets • Luxury Style Apartments Available • Washer and Dryer Hook-ups in Every Apartment • Two Laundry Facilities on Site • 2 beautiful swimming pools and 1 relaxing hot tub • Pet Friendly, breed/weight restrictions apply

The Park at Chelsea Apartment Homes 15902 Spyglass Terrace, Hudson, FL. 34667

Harbor Oaks Apartments 12221 Hollbrook Drive, Hudson, Fl. 34667

727-378-8595

727-862-2726

12

Just For Women • October 4, 2O17

Freshness is the key to seafood success Avoid overcooking at all costs

BY NICK STUBBS

Suncoast News correspondent

It’s been said the most important ingredient in cooking is the ingredients. That goes double for seafood.

Fortunately, there’s plenty of good, local seafood available in Florida, which means the biggest hurdle can be cleared at your local fish market or grocery store.

You still have to know which fish to buy and how to tell whether it meets the freshness standard that is essential to a successful dish.

“Buy local seafood,” is rule number one, according to Capt.

Chuck Rogers, who before becoming a full-time fishing guide spent some time in restaurant kitchens as a chef. “We have access to fresh fish year around, so take advantage of it.”

Rogers said it pays to do some homework and ask questions when buying fish. Fish like grouper, snapper, flounder, pompano, mackerel, sea bass and shrimp are caught in Florida waters and are among the offerings at most well-stocked seafood counters.

Be aware, however, that not all of these species are “local.”

Though labeled the same, imported fish that share little in common with locally caught species may be days old, previously frozen and most significantly, not as flavorful.

Grouper and snapper are prime examples. If they too-good-to-betrue prices, make sure with the seller whether they are imported.

Ask what is fresh and local and

skip the rest.

Of course, if there is an angler or two in the family, then so much the better. In those cases home cooks have the opportunity to prepare game fish that are not available commercially in Florida like redfish, trout and snook.

Fresh fish should not smell “fishy,” its flesh should be firm and in the case of whole fish, the eyes should be clear and bright.

Pass on anything else.

When it comes to shrimp, there is wild-caught Florida shrimp and shrimp from farms overseas.

The local variety will cost more, but will be fresher.

With good seafood secured, the second most important factor is not to ruin it by overcooking.

“Overcooking is the single biggest mistake people make when

SEAFOOD, Page 16

Spicy Blackened Redfish with Cowboy Salsa Ingredients

Flat Iron Flounder Ingredients 1 flounder whole

1 stick of butter

½ cup blacking season (or season of choice)

Flat iron skillet

I have caught a ton of flounder in my life and in the past I have let a lot of them go because I did not want to go through the process of cleaning them. But then a good friend showed me a way to clean them that is not only easy and fast it also makes for a great presentation.

• Clean • Scale • Cut the head off

Cooking oil • Gut • Rinse • Cross score Once the fish is cleaned, rub with softened butter and coat with spice Place fish on preheated, lightly oiled flat iron and sear topside down first 4-5 minutes depending on thickness. Flip over and finish for another 4-5 min. (you only want to flip once) Serves two.

2 redfish filets (or other firm, white-fleshed fish) deboned skin and dark, red meat removed.

Cast iron skillet

1/2 cup store-bought blackening spice

1 can of black beans

1 stick butter

¼ cup chopped cilantro

2 cups jasmine rice

1 lemon juiced

½ cup sweet peppers or hot

Salt pepper and garlic to taste

Cowboy Salsa 1 can of corn 3 large Roma tomatoes

1 tbsp chicken bouillon.

(I use a product called Better Than Bouillon) Cooking should be done outside or in a well-ventilated area Make rice according to package; add bouillon to water. Add chopped peppers to rice about half way thru cooking to maintain color and texture. Remove from heat and cover.

Soften butter and spread over top side of filets. Cover butter with a generous amount of spice

Add 1 to 2 tbsp of oil to a cast iron skillet. Heat oil on high heat until oil starts to smoke timing is key here do not let oil burn. Carefully add fish spice side down to skillet. Cook for 3 to 4 min. depending on thickness of filets.

Flip once and cook for another 2 to 3 min.

Serve fish on a bed of rice with healthy portion of salsa.

13

Just For Women • October 4, 2O17

Paid adverTiSing

Suncoast Urogynecology & Pelvic Reconstructive Surgery Provides Top Quality Treatment.

It’s not uncommon for women of varying ages to seek treatment for pelvic floor disorders. Some women experience symptoms as young as their thirties, although symptoms typically worsen with age. In fact, about one-third of all women will experience pelvic floor disorders during their lifetime. The most common pelvic floor disorders are overactive bladder, urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, constipation, and painful intercourse. Dr. Mona McCullough, of Suncoast Urogynecology & Pelvic Reconstructive Surgery offers expert & compassionate care for these women closer to home.

Dr. McCullough is the only fellowship-trained, board certified physician specializing in Female Pelvic Medicine & Reconstructive Surgery (FPMRS) in the five-county surrounding area. With a strong engineering background, she realized that fellowshiptraining in FPMRS would allow her to use both her hands and her mind to restore proper pelvic anatomy and function for women with pelvic floor disorders. The fellowship training required three additional years (beyond her eight years of medical school & Ob-Gyn training) to become an expert in FPMRS. This specialty training also focused on minimally invasive surgical techniques such as robotic & laparoscopic surgeries. Dr. McCullough became

Suncoast Urogynecology is restoring lives for women suffering from Pelvic Floor Disorders.

• Overactive Bladder • Urinary Incontinence • Pelvic Prolapse • Painful Intercourse board-certified in FPMRS through a series of written and oral examinations proving extensive knowledge in the field and adherence to practice guidelines.

This combination of fellowship training & board certification distinguishes Dr. McCullough as an expert in FPMRS. “Many women suffer in silence for up to three years before seeking help,” Dr. McCullough explains.

She wants women to know, “There is no need for prolonged suffering! In fact, many women can improve their symptoms with simple lifestyle changes or pelvic strengthening exercises (‘kegals’).”

Dr. McCullough enjoys sharing her knowledge and these simple lifestyle interventions with women throughout the community at local educational events.

Written educational materials are also available on her website: www.SuncoastUrogyn.com. For women with more severe symptoms who need additional treatment options, an office consultation with Dr. McCullough is

Paid adverTiSing

recommended. “The greatest part of my job is working with each woman to provide personalized treatment options that address her specific symptoms, anatomy, and lifestyle goals,” says Dr. McCullough.

For women with overactive bladder and/or urinary urgency incontinence, a simple medication by mouth may help when lifestyle changes are not successful.

When medications are not enough, however, Dr. McCullough offers a variety of office-based and simple same-day surgical procedures to help with these symptoms.

Many times pelvic strengthening is insufficient to resolve the symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse. In these cases, Dr. McCullough takes the time to explain the specific type of prolapse a patient has. She will then discuss the treatment options most appropriate for that specific woman’s anatomy, surgical history, and lifestyle goals. These options may include simple office treatments such as a pessary or one of many surgical repair options.

Suncoast Urogynecology & Pelvic Reconstructive Surgery provides expert, efficient, and compassionate care for women suffering with pelvic floor disorders.

Dr. McCullough founded the practice four years ago, recognizing that women in our local communities need the specialized treatment options she can offer.

One-Of-A-Kind Specialist* *(in Pinellas, Pasco, Hernando, Citrus, & Sumter Counties)

• *Board Certified and Fellowship-Trained: Female Pelvic Medicine & Pelvic Reconstructive Surgery • robotic & Laparoscopic Surgeon • Personalized Specialty Care for Your: - Overactive Bladder - Urinary & Fecal incontinence - Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Appointments: 727-645-4541 Trinity Professional Center • Bldg. #4 1814 Wellness Lane | Trinity, FL 34655 | www.SuncoastUrogyn.com

Mona McCullough, MD, FPMRS

14

Just For Women • October 4, 2O17

Thursday, November 16

Event Co-Chairs Marie Picone & Lorraine Hadley invite you to

Charity Fashion Show

11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Heritage Springs Golf & Country Club

Benefiting

11345 Robert Trent Jones Parkway in Trinity

$35 per person $250* per table of 8 guests

Guest Emcee:

*if purchased by Oct. 31; $275 per table after Nov. 1.

Deiah Riley

Tickets include lunch, fashion show and vendor expo.

Fashion Presented by:

Information & Tickets: GHPPC.org or 800-561-4883

Why age gracefully?

Medical Marijuana

When you can age

for Serious Health Conditions • ALS • Cancer • Chronic Non-Malignant Pain • AIDS/HIV • Crohns • Epilepsy • Glaucoma • Multiple Sclerosis • Parkinsons • PTSD • Terminal Conditions • Medical Conditions comparable to those above

FREE Phone Consultation for Medical Cannabis Tanmay Patel, MD, MPH

727-753-8861

4766 Rowan Rd.

New Port Richey, FL www.NaturalClinicMD.com

dynamically!

Ladies, you don’t have to suffer the effects of: • • • •

Menopause Weight gain Stress Anxiety

• • • •

Chronic Inflammation Chronic Fatigue Disappearing Libido Aging Skin

Get relief naturally! Schedule your FREE consultation with Certified Nutritionist, Kathy Wright, today to begin your journey to a more vibrant, healthy you.

6630 US 19, New Port Richey 727.848.5140 WrightsNaturalMarket.com Healthy living, for everyone.

15

Just For Women • October 4, 2O17

NAMI From Page 6

illness. But genes are not the only risk factor.

“Studies of identical twins have shown that even if one twin develops bipolar disorder, the other twin does not always develop the disorder, even though identical twins share all of the same genes.”

Morales was less concerned with how it happened and instead focused on managing both their symptoms. But it wasn’t easy, she said. Navigating her daughter’s educational challenges was especially taxing, particularly when bipolar disorder is still widely misunderstood.

The Center for Disease Control defines bipolar disorder as a “manic depressive disorder, characterized by dramatic shifts in mood, energy, and activity levels that effect a person’s ability to carry out day to day tasks. These shifts in mood and energy levels are more severe than the normal ups and downs that are experienced by everyone.”

Nancy Whitener, Treasurer of NAMI Pasco, said people with mental illnesses are often stereotyped. Bipolar disorder, in particular, is nondiscriminatory.

It is diagnosed almost equally in men and women, with females experiencing more depressive episodes.

Her observations while conducting support classes through NAMI have found a high rate of intelligence in those who suffer the disorder. In fact, through NAMI, many stereotypes are eradicated for those who seek support.

NAMI Pasco has been serving the mental health community for 22 years, operating entirely through volunteers and donations. The not for profit offers: • Family to Family Education Program is a 12-week course for families, partners and friends of individuals with serious mental illness.

• Peer to Peer Education Program is a 10-week, peer led, recovery course open to any person with a serious mental illness.

• Basics Education Program is a 6-week, peer-directed education course specifically for parents and family caregivers of children and adolescents diagnosed with serious mental illness or emotional disturbance or experiencing symptoms but not yet diagnosed.

• Provider Education Program is 30 hours of in-service training to line staff at public mental health agencies, taught by a trained five-member team.

• Family Support Group is a confidential meeting of family members and

loved ones of individuals with mental illness.

• Connection Support Group is a recovery support group for people living with mental illness.

• FaithNet Outreach educates clergy and congregations with the role that spiritually can play in recovery.

• In Our Own Voice is a unique public education presentation that offers insight into the hope and recovery for people living with mental illness, presented by individuals with a mental illness.

• Crisis Intervention Team training is a 40-hour course for law enforcement and judicial personnel to improve communication skills, situation assessment, and interaction with a mentally ill person in crisis combined with community, healthcare, and advocacy partnerships • Social Function for any adult in Pasco County living with mental illness, include a holiday party that encourages socialization instead of withdrawal and isolation. Lunch is served and there are games and entertainment.

It’s mission is to “promote recovery for children, adults and military personnel with mental illness, to aid families and caregivers, to increase public awareness and understanding, to eradicate stigma, and to propagate improved services and research; through advocacy, educational classes, workshops, seminars, support groups, community and member activities and training of law enforcement officers; in order to realize a positive difference in availability of programs, medical treatment, betterment of living conditions, and the overall quality of life for those with mental disorders.”

All services through NAMI Pasco are free.

Morales continues to live a comfortable life despite her mental illnesses and that of her daughters. Her oldest also suffers from anxiety.

She isn’t quiet about her challenges and encourages others to utilize supports offered through NAMI, recognizing its value in keeping her healthy when her moods cycle. She knows her triggers and pulls herself out of the game when necessary to work on getting back on track.

But Morales is also fortunate to have found support in her significant other who understands her challenges and picks up the control when needed.

Without NAMI Pasco, Morales might not have reached a comfortable balance with her mental illness.

If you or a loved one is experiencing challenges due to mental illness, or you just need more information, contact NAMI Pasco at 727-992-9653. Or visit their website at www.namipasco.org.

NAMI Pasco official took the lead Mother’s depression was stark introduction

BY KIM DAME Suncoast News correspondent

Life challenges often inspire those navigating rough journeys to become direct advocates. Gloria Strother, Vice President of the Pasco County chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Health, is one who took the lead when introduced to the stigmas of mental illness from the front lines.

Her mother suffered from deep depression, and her brother battled bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.

She realized she was far from alone in her search for a beacon of hope through the turbulent waters. And she set out to be part of the solution.

Strother found support at NAMI’s Family Support group where she learned she was one of many who struggled to find a calm place in a storm of chaos. Inspired, she joined NAMI Pasco as an instructor after completing her training and taught the first Family to Family class.

Strother took her fight even further by joining NAMI’s board of directors, first as treasurer in 2004 and now as vice president. And in those roles, she initiated change that translated to hope for so many who suffer from a family member’s mental illness.

“There are now active support groups in Pasco County,” said Nancy Whitener, colleague and friend of Strother and current treasurer of NAMI Pasco.

Whitener said Strother was also credited with creating an Information and Referral line, donating her cell phone and number and answering thousands of calls.

Nancy Whitener recognized the enormous impact Strother has made on NAMI Pasco and moved to share the accomplishments by nominating Strother for Community Hero.

According to NAMI, as many as one in four adults suffers from a mental illness. And for each who suffers is a family or friend network trying to support them. Therefore, there is a high probability that everyone knows

someone who is either directly or indirectly effected by the negative consequences of a mental disorder in the United States.

The foundation of NAMI’s support focuses on eliminating the stigma of mental illness, both for those who suffer and those who are caring for the victims.

NAMI Pasco presents several educational workshops, support groups and other functions for those effected by mental illness. They include Family to Family, Peer to Peer, Basics Education, Provider Education, Family Support, Connections Support, FaithNet Outreach, In Our Own Voice, Crisis Intervention training, as well as social functions. All services are free.

Strother’s work has benefited thousands in the Pasco community, said Whitener, “from the graduates of classes, family members in support groups, those living with a mental illness, creating public awareness through speeches in organizations, on college campuses, networking groups, to advocating in political arenas, and many, many more.

She added: “The list could go on.

These are the tangible qualifications and proven track record with results of a hero — reaching out to the community, teaching, leading, guiding, encouraging, and supporting thousands of those with a mental illness and their families over the last thirteen years.”

Because of the work of those like Strother, NAMI Pasco has become an important resource for those who suffer from mental illness and for those people who love them.

In recognition of mental illness awareness week, which runs Oct. 1 - 7, NAMI Pasco will present its 2017 Education & Awards Banquet. It will take place starting a 6 p.m. at Oct. 5 at Spartan Manor, Massachusetts Ave., New Port Richey. In addition to a full course dinner, participants will experience Jeff Yalden, international motivational speaker, college mental health speaker and life coach.

For mor e i n for m at ion a b out ment a l i l l ne s s a nd how N A M I Pa s c o c a n help, v i sit t he w ebsite www.namipasco.org.

16

Seafood From Page 12

preparing seafood,” said Rogers. “It’s a shame to take what is a perfect piece of fish and overdoing it.”

It also can be a costly mistake. Fresh Florida grouper generally is more expensive than top cuts of beef, so keeping an eye on time and temp pays.

The beauty of good, fresh seafood is you don’t have to do much to prepare a knock-out dish. Salt, pep-

per, butter and a little lemon on the grill or in a sauté pan and you’re a hero, said Rogers.

If you do decide to take it up a notch with your recipes, Rogers recommends staying away from heavy sauces. He likes to stick with tropical themes.

“Fresh fruit and bright vegetables are a lot better with out local seafood,” he said, the salty meshing with sweet and light making the seafood shine. Fresh citrus is a natural for Flor-

ida meals, as are mangos, guava and other tropical fruits.

Don’t overlook the idea of cooking fish whole. The head and bones contribute mightily to the flavor, said Rogers. In fact, one of his favorite preparations is whole, fried mangrove snapper. His flat-iron flounder is prepared minus the head, but with everything else intact. If you are not handy and scaling and gutting a whole fish, have it prepared at the store.

Quitting tobacco isn't easy. Finding help should be. Tobacco Free Florida offers free tools and services to help you get started.

Class Schedule Saturday, October 7, 2017 / 10:00am - 12:00pm Mease Dunedin Hospital - Baycare 601 Main Street, Dunedin

Panko Pompano with Creamy Grits and fresh Pico topping Ingredients Pico

2 Pompano fillets (skinless)

Pepper

2 cups seasoned Panko bread crumbs

Heavy cream

2 cups flour

4 servings yellow grits Chicken bullion

Roma tomatoes Green onion Cilantro

2 eggs

Fresh garlic

Salt

Juice of 1 lemon

Make Pico in advance so it has time to marinate.

• Dice tomatoes small • Chop onion semi-fine • Chop cilantro fine • Chop garlic fine • Juice lemon Salt and pepper to taste. Combine all ingredients together in plastic or wood bowl (do not use any metal utensils). Stir occasionally until served.

Following instructions on grits, substituting heavy cream for half of the water and adding bullion at proper ratios 1tsp per cup of liquid. You can add bacon bits to grits if desired.

NOTE: Use oven safe frying pan • Preheat oven to 400 Soak fillets in ice water; dredge first in flour then in egg wash then in bread crumbs. Place in frying pan lightly coated with peanut oil (other frying oil can be used). Pan sear on both sides on med high for two min each. Place frying pan in oven to finish for 8 min., turning fish one time to evenly brown. Serves two.

Just For Women • October 4, 2O17

FREE

Nicotine replacement patches, gum or lozenges.*

Wednesday, October 11, 2017 / 10:00am – 12:00pm Good Samaritan Clinic 5334 Aspen Street, New Port Richey

*If medically appropriate and 18 years of age or older.

Thursday, October 12, 2017 / 6:00pm - 8:00pm Mease Countryside Hospital - Baycare 3231 McMullen Booth Road, Safety Harbor

FREE

Participant workbook and materials.

Friday, October 13, 2017 / 10:00am – 12:00pm

Pasco County Health Department 10841 Little Road, New Port Richey

Wednesday, October 18, 2017 / 5:00pm – 7:00 pm Regional Medical Center, Bayonet Point 14000 Fivay Road, Hudson Thursday, October 19, 2017 / 10:00am - 12:00pm Florida Hospital North Pinellas 1395 S. Pinellas Avenue, Tarpon Springs

More than DOUBLES your chances of success!

Programs cover all forms of tobacco.

Wednesday, November 1, 2017 / 10:00am – 12:00pm Morton Plant, North Bay Hospital 6600 Madison Street, New Port Richey Wednesday, November 8, 2017 / 10:00am – 12:00pm Good Samaritan Clinic 5334 Aspen Street, New Port Richey Wednesday, November 15, 2017 / 5:00pm – 7:00pm Regional Medical Center, Bayonet Point 14000 Fivay Road, Hudson Thursday, November 16, 2017 / 5:00pm – 7:00pm Florida Hospital – Zephyrhills 38233 Daughtery Road, Zephyrhills

Pre-registration required.

To register please call: 813-929-1000 For more information, visit us at tobaccofreeflorida.com/quityourway

Is the in-person option of Tobacco Free Florida Quit Your Way services.

This program is sponsored by:

17

Just For Women • October 4, 2O17

Surviving cancer takes a village

Teacher reflects on being alive 3 years later

BY KATHRYN WILLIAMS Tampa Bay Newspapers CLEARWATER — There’s always at least one high school teacher that constantly sees their students return year, after year.

Margaret Trautwein is certainly one of them.

It’s these alumna, as well as friends, co-workers and family that became integral to Trautwein’s life when she was diagnosed with cancer.

To fully understand her cancer diagnosis and her battle and her life afterwards, it’s important to know her life story, and more specifically, her life in education.

Becoming “Mamma T” Trautwein was the daughter of a teacher mother and a Navy-man father, so she traveled quite a bit from home to home.

She graduated high school, in Merietta, Georgia.

Eventually, she made her way to Florida, where she attended college at the University of South Florida, obtaining her bachelors in English Professional Technical Writing.

With her parent’s backgrounds, Trautwein thought she only had two career options in life: education or the military.

After graduating, she called Pinellas County Schools and applied to teach. She waited, and waited, and heard nothing.

It wasn’t until the day before

Trautwein was headed to join the military, that she got the call.

With no education background, the 24-year-old Trautwein was hired on to teach 6th grade reading at Fitzgerald Middle in Largo.

Nothing about her first teaching job was easy.

She cried the first day, and the teachers and administration asked if she was coming back.

She cried the second day, and the teachers and administration asked if she was coming back.

She never stopped coming back.

It was at Fitzgerald that Trautwein, then the unmarried Mayes, earned the “Mamma” moniker.

She didn’t have any children of her own, so her students became her kids.

When recounting her time there, she said the teachers would often ask her why she would allow her kids to hug her.

Though she would never initiate it, she would never reject a hug from a student.

“They don’t get this at home,” Trautwein said. “That’s when they started calling me “Mamma.”

This nickname would follow her to Countryside High School, where she started teaching reading and English in 2006.

Two years into her job there, her mentor and now friend, English and Language Arts teacher Joyce Dimmer asked her to take over the school’s Paw Print Newspaper.

After marrying her husband Chris Trautwein, she forever

KATHRYN WILLIAMS

Margaret Trautwein, 41, is an English and journalism teacher at Countryside High School in Clearwater. In 2014, Trautwein was diagnosed with, and beat, breast cancer.

became the “Mamma T” she is today.

The Diagnosis “I found out on my own,” Trautwein said. “Something was wrong.”

She said she was known to have relatively cystic breasts, and the feeling would usually go away as her cycle ended.

This time was different.

Still, she shrugged it off.

Trautwein never let anything bother her for too long. If she could avoid doctors and medication, she would, she will. In her opinion, the feeling that had been going on for about a month, would eventually disappear.

She came into her classroom early one morning, walking into the adjoining classroom

next door: Dimmer’s. While they were chatting, Trautwein subconsciously touched the spot that was troubling her, an immediate trigger for breast cancer survivor Dimmer.

She told Trautwein to call the doctor, immediately, as students were filing into the room.

“She yelled and physically made me leave,” Trautwein said.

She calls Dimmer her mentor and, also her savior. Without her, she said she may not be here today.

In fact, her Trautwein’s daughter bought Dimmer and Alex an Ani bracelet that says “hero,” and Dimmer still wears it every day.

She called the doctor that day, and they quickly got her in.

On May 2, 2014, at 3:30 p.m., Trautwein got the call.

She remembers it almost exactly because she was at the Safety Harbor Spa decorating for the high school prom.

“I broke down and called my father and husband,” Trautwein said. When they arrived, both men insisted on taking her home amidst the news.

“I put on my big girl panties, I put on my dress, I did my makeup and my hair,” Trautwein said. “I crowned that king and queen that night. My kids were more important than me at that point. My kids needed me.”

She hasn’t yet been back to a prom.

Undergoing treatment Trautwein was scheduled for a lumpectomy to remove the cancerous growth, but her

SURVIVOR, Page 18

18

Rock it bald, Maggie

Survivor

Before she started treatment, she was told she should cut her hair a bit shorter as losing large amounts of hair in chunks can be traumatic. She decided to cut her hair down to a short bob, about 5-inches long.

This still didn’t prepare her for what was to come.

About three weeks into her treatment, her hair started coming out in clumps. With that, one night, Trautwein called a friend, took a dose of liquid courage, and had her shave her hair off.

It was emotional, she said. No one likes losing their hair, but there was some power in taking control over the rest of the loss.

“But it was on my terms,” Trautwein said.

She went out and bought an expensive wig, but never ended up wearing it.

From Page 17

doctors also suggested she undergo gene testing.

Right before she was scheduled for the lumpectomy, the results came in: She had stage 2, grade 3, triple-negative breast cancer and with a BRCA1 mutation.

BRCA, from Breast Cancer Gene, comes in two forms: according to Susan G. Komen, BRCA1 carriers have a 55 to 65 percent chance of developing breast cancer by 70 and BRCA2 carriers have a 45 percent chance. These genes are the best-known gene links to breast cancer risk, and inherently carry an increased risk of breast cancer.

Susan G. Komen also says BRCA1 and 2 genes also are thought to help explain much of hereditary breast cancer.

When Trautwein was a few days away from her 12th birthday, her mother passed away from breast cancer. She had the same gene mutations.

Trautwein also was triple negative. The Triple Negative Breast Cancer Foundation states that subtypes of breast cancer are diagnosed by the presence of three receptors that fuel most breast cancers: estrogen receptors, progesterone receptors and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2. The most successful treatments target these specific receptors.

Triple negative means that the tumor in question tested negative for all three receptors.

Though this means that the cancer will respond well to chemotherapy, it also means they will not respond to receptor-targeted treatments and they tend to be aggressive.

Her lumpectomy was canceled, and it was de-

cided that she would undergo chemo first.

“If we can do chemo first, they can watch and track it, and see if it’s shrinking,” Trautwein said. Then they can remove it.

From there, Trautwein remembers her life in dates.

June 23, 2014 her port was inserted and then the next day, she started her first round of chemo.

The first half of her chemo would utilize drugs that had left the trial phase December 2013, originally used for lung and ovarian cancer: paclitaxel, or taxol, and carboplatin.

“Only 40 percent made it through the trials because the drugs are so nasty,” Trautwein said.

The other half of her treatment would be the standard of care chemo meds. It was this half of chemo, Trautwein said was the hardest.

The taxol and carbo-

platin made it almost impossible to get up and move. The standard meds created pain.

“The standard of care made your whole body hurt,” Trautwein said.

Her last round of chemo was on Oct. 27, and she didn’t make it.

“I begged the doctor not to give it to me,” Trautwein said, but after talking it over with her husband, they decided they would regret it if something went wrong and she didn’t continue.

“I stuck it out.”

Her cancer had shrunk from 2.7 centimeters to 4 millimeters.

On Dec. 8, she had a double mastectomy and she received the news she was cancer free. She also had a total hysterectomy to avoid the cancer returning in any vulnerable areas.

Recently, Trautwein had her regular CT bone scan. She is still quite cancer free.

Just For Women • October 4, 2O17

“It didn’t feel like me,” Trautwein said.

Her students felt that was true as well. One student, Kathryn “Kat” Gaspie, created a shirt design, featuring the pink breast cancer awareness ribbon. A feather was on one side, and a flock of birds was flying away on the other side.

“We stick together, we fight together,” Trautwein said, explaining the meaning. On the back, however, the shirt read “Rock it Bald, Maggie.”

It takes a village: family and school Her students were involved in raising her spirits during her cancer battle, partly because Trautwein continued to work while undergoing chemotherapy.

Two days after her diagnosis, her husband lost his job.

“There was no option,” Trautwein said. “I had to work.”

She took intermittent leave, allowing her to take off hours at a time, instead of days and missed a total of six weeks out of the school year. Walter Gordon, former television production teacher, would fill in as her substitute on most days. She wanted to make sure that through it all, her students maintained a sense of normalcy. She still did the annual secret Santa event with her newspaper staff, and tried to contribute to it as much as her energy would muster.

She was still thinking about her kids.

As for her young two biological children at home, her husband Chris had taken on a new job.

During her treatment, her husband was able to not only take care of the kids, but care for her.

And in another strange turn of fate, in January, when Trautwein went

SURVIVOR, Page 21

Make a difference in someone’s life... maybe even your own.

Participate in a medical research study!

• Alzheimer’s Disease • Depression • Diabetes • Eczema • High Cholesterol • Memory Loss Participants receive study-related care and medication. Compensation may be available for time and travel. Call for more information.

352-597-8839 BROOKSVILLE

Kelli K. Maw, MD, MPH

WWW.NEWSTUDYINFO.COM

19

Just For Women • October 4, 2O17

Breast Cancer Awareness OCTOBER SELF PAY SPECIAL Digital Mammogram Screening & Dexa Scan

$100.00

(Interpretation included)

Digital Mammogram Screening Only

$75.00

(Interpretation included)

SUMMIT IMAGING

12037 Cortez Boulevard • Brooksville, FL 34613 352.597.9008 • Fax 352.597.1008 At the corner of Cortez Boulevard and Highpoint

Dexa Scan Only

$50.00

(Interpretation included)

Call to Schedule Your Appointment Today!

(Must have a prescription from your physician)

352.597.9008

20

Just For Women • October 4, 2O17

Leg pain keeping you from enjoying your life?

30 MINUTE SCLEROTHERAPY TREATMENT

FREE

*

$150

VEIN CONSULTATION

$300 Value.

Cannot be combined with any other offers.

Expires 10/27/17

Must present coupon at time of service.

Cannot be combined with any other offers.

Expires 10/27/17. *Spring Hill Location only.

The vein specialists at The Vein & Vascular Institute have performed thousands of vascular procedures and are board certified surgeons; applying the latest and most advanced minimally invasive surgical techniques.

MOST ES INSURANCD! ACCEPTE

[

SPECIALIZED TREATMENT FOR: • Varicose

Veins • Spider Veins

• Leg Pain • Edema • Swelling

]

• Cramps • Restless Leg

Syndrome

Thomas M� Kerr, MD, FACS, RPVI, PA

Marlene D� Valentin, MD

Kenneth J� Wright, MD, FACS

Brandt D� Jones, DO, RPVI

Adithya Suresh, MD, RPVI

Michael Goldbach, MD

Holly-Ann Kerr, CMSRN, ARNP

Jeff Mathews, MD

SPRING HILL • 13113 Spring Hill Drive, �����������������������������������������(352) 540-7527 NEW PORT RICHEY • 8607 East Haven Ct�, #101,����������������������������(352) 540-7527 TAMPA • 2809 W� Waters Ave�, �����������������������������������������������������������(813) 348-9088 LUTZ • 19185 N� Dale Mabry Hwy�, ���������������������������������������������������(813) 387-3083 RIVERVIEW • 6901 Simmons Loop, #202, ����������������������������������������813) 574-2844

www�tampavascularsurgeon�com

21

Just For Women • October 4, 2O17

Preventative Skin Care

STARTS WITH YOU!

Theodore N. Fotopoulos, MD

Dermatology

Survivor From Page 18

Skin Care Specialists Ryan Koehn, PA-C

Serving patients of all ages • Common Dermatologic Problems • Skin Reactions • Viral Diseases • Surgery Procedures • Pre-Cancers • Diseases of Skin, Hair & Nails • MOHS - Microscopically Controlled Surgery • Esthetician Service

PROUDLY SERVING: • Bayonet Point • Hudson • New Port Richey • Spring Hill • Tarpon Springs • Trinity • Holiday • Palm Harbor • Hernando County • West Pasco Area

727-847-3992 5534 Gulf Dr., Ste. 1 • New Port Richey 727-863-8884 7509 SR 52, Ste. 150 • Summit Medical Center

FREE SKIN CANCER SCREENING!

Call for appointment and mention this ad.

www.newimagederm.com

back to school full time, the day after she started, her husband got the call.

He was hired on for a new job full time.

“My husband was a saint,” Trautwein said.

“I’ve never believed that everything happens for a reason until my husband lost his job.”

Trautwein’s youngest, her son, was only about 3 years old during her cancer battle, but said she believes he’s currently the more emotional of the two because he could sense he almost lost his mother.

As for her daughter, she was about 7 years old.

“I always said we’d never lie to her,” Trautwein said. “I wouldn’t offer too much, but only if they asked the right questions.”

At some point, her daughter asked if Trautwein received her cancer genes from her mother. When she answered she believed so, she then asked if that gene would be given to her too.

“I hope not,” Trautwein recounted telling her daughter.

When both her son and daughter are 16 to 18 years old, she will begin having them tested for the genes.

“Men get breast cancer too,” Trautwein said.

It was for her children, that Trautwein grew her hair out. She enjoyed having the short, easy to style, cut, but her kids weren’t used to that look.

“My children wanted mommy back,” Trautwein said.

Her school family also was equally as supportive during her treatment.

“I had a lot of friends here that helped me,” Trautwein said.

You climb in a pod filled with 1000 pounds of Epsom salt in 180 gallons of water in a zero gravity environment.

There is no light, no sound, no drama.

Float for complete relaxation, ease body aches and pains, improve sleep or to go deep into meditation.

It’s like taking a condensed vacation for your body and mind where you hit the reset button!

Some teachers would go and pick up her copies, because she often didn’t have the energy to make it all the way to the printers.

One of the maintenance workers, Melissa, would extensively clean and dust her room every day to make sure Trautwein didn’t get sick. She even said her kids were even a bit better than they would have been otherwise.

“I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for my village,” Trautwein said. “They picked me up when I needed it. My children come first.”

Trautwein’s advice for others going through cancer is to make memories and be in the know.

“Hug your family as much as you possibly can,” Trautwein said.

“Most people want to know what the future is.

Breast cancer patients want to know what tomorrow is.”

Vacation In Our Spa! In The Fountains Shopping Plaza

Temple Float Spa 35054 US Hwy 19 N. • Palm Harbor, FL 34684 • 727-771-7177 • TempleFloat.com

22

Just For Women • October 4, 2O17

Mother’s milk can boost infant health UF researchers say bacterium calms inflammation

BY DOUG BENNETT UF HEALTH GAINESVILLE — A novel beneficial bacterium found in breast-fed babies has been shown to protect newborn mice from a dangerous intestinal disease that also affects premature infants, University of Florida Health researchers have found.

The bacterium works by reducing inflammation that leads to necrotizing enterocolitis, which destroys intestinal tissue and kills 20 to 30 percent of premature infants who get the disease. Understanding the role of human breast milk and the bacterium’s protective effect is an important step in fighting the disease, the researchers said. Their findings were published in late September in the Journal of Clinical Investigation.

The researchers collected

UF HEALTH

Researchers at the University of Florida say a bacterium found in breast milk can help reduce the inflammation in infants that can cause a potentially fatal intestinal disorder in babies.

gut microorganisms from 40 premature infants, evenly divided between premature infants who received breast milk and those who received baby formula. The premature babies who got breast milk had substantially more of a strain of Propionibacterium, said Mansour Mohamadzadeh, a professor in the UF colleges of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine.

When the human gut microorganisms were transplanted into mouse models, the results in newborn mice were striking: The breast-fed infants’ microbes produced a protective effect, increasing the number of infection-fighting cells and sustaining the regulatory cells that limit chronic inflammatory disease. The microbes from formula-fed infants produced a

Under New Ownership!

6412 Ridge Road Port Richey, FL 34668

727-845-3494

Tues.–Sat. 9am–5pm • Closed Sun. & Mon.

10% OFF Must present coupon Expires 10/31/17

much different reaction in mouse models — more inflammation along with fewer infection-fighting and regulatory cells.

Similar results were found when the Propionibacterium mune regulation in the mice was tested against listeria, a whose mothers were given P. disease-causing bacterium UF1,” Mohamadzadeh said. that disproportionately afP. UF1 works by interacting fects pregnant women, infants with a particular protein, the and the elderly. Listeriosis can MOTHER'S MILK, Page 24 result in miscarriage or newborn death.

The novel, infection-fighting strain of bacterium cultured by the researchers was named P. UF1. Taken together, the findings support the idea that human breast milk, along with its related bacteria such as P. UF1 and bacterial products, are crucial to UF HEALTH controlling the inflammation that can lead to Mansour Mohamadzadeh, a professor necrotizing enterocoli- in the UF colleges of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, says a tis, researchers said. bacterium found in breast milk can “We studied the im- have a “tremendous” positive impact mune responses and in newborns in moderating the saw tremendous im- inflammatory response.

Pasco County National Organization for Women celebrating over 25 years of feminist advocacy Contact us at: 727-266-3115 pcflnow@gmail.com or pasconow.org

Just For Women • October 4, 2O17

23

24

Mother's Milk From Page 22

researchers found. That interaction controls inflammatory signals and limits the disease by allowing regulatory cells to efficiently clear away harmful microorganisms.

Finding a way to prevent necrotizing enterocolitis is crucial because it is a leading cause of death among premature infants and is extremely difficult to treat after onset, said Josef Neu, M.D., a professor in the UF College of Medicine’s department of pediatrics and a co-author of the study. Harnessing the potential of a beneficial bacteria is one way to do that.

“As we begin to show that inflammatory responses resulting in devastating diseases such as necrotizing enterocolitis can be altered, that offers some real promise in terms of blunting inflammation before it starts,” Neu said.

NEW FREE

Wellness Program Referral for

FREE

Annual Physical Plus one follow up visit with PAP & Labs for UNINSURED Women over 18 and NOT pregnant

CALL TODAY!

All Services are FREE 5330 GEORGE ST NEW PORT RICHEY, FL

727-846-9999

www.PascoPregnancy.com

EngagE • Inform • EmpowEr

Just For Women • October 4, 2O17

Because the beneficial bacterium can be cultured, Neu and Mohamadzadeh said it may have the potential to someday be used as a probiotic supplement that could be given to pregnant women or premature infants along with human breast milk to bolster the baby’s immune system.

Ultimately, the bacterium may be able to help shape a stable, healthy gut for premature infants by redirecting the inflammation that leads to necrotizing enterocolitis and perhaps similar diseases, Mohamadzadeh said. Further research and approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration will be needed before the bacterium can be studied in infants, Neu said.

Researchers from Loyola University Chicago and the Emory University School of Medicine collaborated on the project. The research was supported by grants from the National Institutes of Health and the Gatorade Trust.

25

Just For Women • October 4, 2O17

Just for Women Medical Calendar Medical Center of Trinity classes and events • The Breast Cancer Support Group meets from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. on the first and third Wednesday of every month in the American Cancer Society Resource Room, 9332 S.R. 54, Suite 402. The group is led by Ivy Landell. Registration required.

• A breastfeeding class is held 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 4.

This is an introductory course led by a Registered Nurse Certified Lactation Counselor.

Registration required.

• “Girls Night Out” will be held, 5-7 p.m., on Tuesday, Oct. 17.

This event allows women of all ages to meet physicians and clinical experts, shop retailers and taste local food samples.

Reservations required by Tuesday, Oct. 10.

• “What’s Going on Down There?” will be held from noon to 1 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 5.

Urogynecologist Mona McCullough, M.D., will discuss Pelvic Prolapse. Registration required.

The Medical Center of Trinity is at 9330 S.R. 54. For required registration for all events, call 727-834-5630 or visit http://medicalcentertrinity.com.

Center. The tutorial will be led by Alene Wright, M.D. For required registration, visit www.rmchealth.com. Call 727-819-2929 for more information.

Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point class A “Tuesday Tutorial — Breast Imaging, Why, Who, When, and What?” will be held from 11:30 a.m. until 1 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 31, at Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point, 14100 Yosemite Drive, Hudson, in the Rao Musunuru, M.D. Conference

Morton Plant North Bay class A Breast Cancer Facts class will be held 10-11 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 11., at Morton Plant North Bay Hospital, 6600 Madison St., New Port Richey, in the Bekesh Education & Conference Center. For required registration, go online to www.baycare.org.

The Heart of the Home is

“The Kitchen”

Where Family & Friends Gather Together

Manufacturing Fine Cabinetry Since 1978. Family Owned and Operated

We Custom Manufacture or Reface Your Kitchen Cabinetry & Coordinate ALL Phases of Your Kitchen Remodeling

500 OFF

$

Any Kitchen or Bath Refacing or Cabinetry Replacement totalling $4000 or more, or 10% OFF whichever is greater. Must present coupon.

Cannot be combined with any other offer.

250 OFF

$

Any Countertop Replacement totalling $2500 or more, or 10% OFF. Whichever is greater.

Must present coupon.

Cannot be combined with any other offer.

727-944-3150

Lic# C-9329

4306 Louis Ave., Holiday www.candlelightkitchendesigns.com

26

Just For Women • October 4, 2O17

Mother and daughter fight back with an app against PMDD

BY KADI HENDRICKS TUBBS TBN Correspondent

For years, 22-year-old St. Petersburg resident Brett Buchert has suffered from anxiety and depression.

It started when she was in sixth grade, and, over time, the symptoms got worse. While in college, it got so bad she took a semester off and stayed home with her parents.

“Some days I’d laugh nonstop with friends, then a few days later I’d cry inconsolably with my mom on the phone,” Buchert said.

It was during this time off from college that Brett’s mom, Sheila Buchert, found a local doctor who gave Brett hope again.

“That fall my mom got me an appointment with a functional medicine doctor,” Brett said. “I was wary. Within the past two years, doctors had prescribed me four different types of antidepressants and an anti-anxiety medication, all of which didn’t help me feel better and just furthered my hopelessness.

However, this doctor was different.

He listened to my history carefully and did not jump in with a new way to medicate me. Instead, he said, ‘I think it could be premenstrual dysphoric disorder.’”

Before they could know for sure, Brett had to track her symptoms for two months, two menstrual cycles.

“We brought the Excel spreadsheets and graphs back to my doc-

tor,” she said. “He said then with confidence, words that changed my life: ‘Yes, you have PMDD.’” PMDD affects as many as 10 million women in the U.S. and Europe. The symptoms are severe and can interfere with a woman’s quality of life, relationships, work, school and can even lead to suicide.

According to statistics from the Gia Allemand Foundation, which is the leading U.S. organization advocating for the prevention, treatment and research of this condition, about 15 percent of women with PMDD will attempt suicide in their lifetime. The symptoms arise during the premenstrual phase of a woman’s cycle (sometimes one to two weeks before her period) and subside each month around the time her period comes.

PMDD’s cyclical nature differentiates it from other mood disorders, but also can make it very hard to diagnose. About 80 percent of women with PMDD are not diagnosed at all, or are diagnosed with other conditions like depression and bipolar disorder.

Brett had seen several doctors in the past and been diagnosed with major depression and generalized anxiety disorder and given medications, but nothing really worked.

Being diagnosed with PMDD and receiving the right treatment has been helping.

“Yes, another diagnosis to add to my list, but to me it was much

more,” she said. “It was the right diagnosis and the start I needed to change the way I looked at my life. Knowing that I do have a condition I will have to struggle with instills hope. I am able to be more confident.”

There is no blood or saliva test to diagnose PMDD. The only way to diagnose it is by tracking the symptoms for at least two menstrual cycles.

After going through the manual and tedious tracking and learning more about PMDD, Brett and her mother decided they could help others, so earlier this year they developed Me v PMDD, a new app and associated website to help women track symptoms, treatments and gain support.

The power of the information was clear. It not only led to Brett’s diagnosis, but also empowered her to focus on what she can control in her life.

“It makes me feel good to share my experience to help other people and some people have said they are so thankful they found our website,” she said. “Women helping each other. It’s another step in my journey.”

Me v PMDD will make symptom and treatment tracking for PMDD accessible and simple by featuring easy-to-read symptom graphs to help women and their doctors understand and more effectively treat PMDD. The app will

CERTIFIED NURSE ASSISTANT

Lucille Harvey

25+ Yrs. Experience Home Health Aide Service for the Elderly with Various Illnesses Licensed/Caring/Reliable

(727) 657-8414

help replace the antiquated printable symptom tracking charts currently made available online. It also will include a Self-Love Journal for personal affirmations and reminders of coping mechanisms, as well as resources to learn more about PMDD, links to peer support, suicide/crisis hotlines, and doctors in your area who treat the disorder.

“We hope it can contribute to the changing tides surrounding women’s menstrual health and lead to better support, resources, and more effective treatment for women with PMDD,” said Sheila.

“Me v PMDD puts the power of tracking into a woman’s hand,” according to Dr. Tory Eisenlohr-Moul of the Center for Women’s Mood Disorders, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

“The app will help empower women to take control over their emotional, mental and physical symptoms by gaining a clear picture of their symptom patterns, receiving peer support, and learning about evidence-based treatment options.”

Since being diagnosed with PMDD, Brett says she is working with her doctor as a trial case to find an effective treatment.

“I’m so happy to say that we are onto something and my symptoms have decreased by about 70 percent. My PMDD went from nearly unbearable to more of just a nuisance. I owe so much of that to finally figuring out what was

WEBSITE IMAGE

Me-v-PMDD, a app developed by a mother and daughter in St. Petersburg, helps women deal with premenstrual dysphoric disorder.

wrong, to finally getting a correct diagnosis,” said Brett.

Me v PMDD is being developed in coordination with the Gia Allemand Foundation for PMDD. The Bucherts have been invited to present their app at the national 2017 PMDD Annual Conference Oct. 4-6 in Deerfield Beach.

Anyone interested about the issue is invited to attend. Visit giaallemandfoundation.org/conference/ for more information.

The Me v PMDD app will be available for free worldwide for iOS, Android and website users in October. You can sign up early for access at www.mevpmdd.com.

INVESTMENT FLORIDA REALTY

LLC

“Smart Investment Opportunitites”

HEATHER ALEXIS MOORE Realtor

727-858-5252 heatherrealtor@verizon.net fax: 727-940-5911 321 E Tarpon Ave. • Tarpon Springs, FL 34689

27

Just For Women • October 4, 2O17

UTILIZING

The Healthy Woman’s Back Pain Guide

Ok… ladies, women, girls. This is really important. I see countless women come into my clinic, Baywest Health & Rehab, with back pain, neck pain, and the like. I always tell my patients, that prevention is better than cure, and if you can find the cause of your problem, you are part way to solving it.

Does your back pain build up when you move it wrong or is it a sudden sharp pain shooting from your neck into your arm? Do you have difficulty just washing your hair or even scratching your back? Have you had to give up golf because of your back pain?

Nothing’s worse than feeling great mentally, but physically feeling held back from life because your back hurts and the pain just won’t go away!

Prevention is better than cure...

I have spoken to many women about women’s back pain in Pasco, and have come up with 7 common causes of back pain relating to them. If you can identify with any of these causes, you could be on the way to helping your back pain.

However, with you ladies, there are many things you can immediately do to make changes to make a significant impact in easing your pain. This site, along with downloadable ebook, goes through many of these things that YOU can change immediately.

Things like your footwear, your bags, the type of pillow you sleep on, your posture… and so on. These are all things you can work on to make your pain ease off. And all these issues, and more are fully covered on our special women’s only help site.

The site features 7 great back pain prevention guide that you can put into action right now. Visit:

http://womenschiropractor.com and download your free guide now!

My name is Dr. Scott Coletti, with Baywest Health & Rehab, LLC. Over the years, since we’ve opened the doors, we’ve seen hundreds of people with low back, upper back and lumbar disc problems leave the office pain free.

Finally, You Have an Option Other Than Drugs or Surgery New research in a treatment called low level laser therapy, or Cold Laser, is having a profound effect on patients suffering with pain. Unlike the cutting type of laser seen in movies and used in medical procedures, Cold Laser penetrates the surface of the skin with no heating effect or damage.

Cold Laser therapy has been tested for 50 years, had over 3000 papers published on it, and been shown to aid in damaged tissue regeneration, decrease inflammation, relieve pain and boost the immune system.

This means that there is a good chance Cold Laser therapy could be your pain solution, allowing you to live a more active lifestyle.

Professional athletes like Tiger Woods and team members of the New England Patriots rely upon cold laser therapy to treat the sports-related injuries. These guys use the Cold Laser for one reason only….

CALL TODAY TO SCHEDULE YOUR

It Promotes Rapid Healing Of The Injured Tissues

Pain is your body’s warning sign telling you something is wrong. Finding the problem and fixing it has got to be a top priority!

Before the FDA would clear Cold Laser for human use, they wanted to see proof that it worked. This led to two landmark studies.

The first study showed that patients who had Cold Laser therapy had 53% better improvement than those who had a placebo. The second study showed patients who used the laser therapy had less pain and more range of motion days after treatment. If Cold Laser can help these patients, it can help you too.

Pain Pills Could Be Making Your Back Worse

Have A Doctor Evaluate Your Back For Only $47 Just call before October 12 2017 and here’s what you’ll get…

• An in-depth consultation about your back where we will listen…really listen.

• A complete nerve, muscle and spinal exam to find the “cause” of your problem.

• A full set of specialized x-rays to look for joint degeneration (arthritis)… (NOTE: These would normally cost you at least $100).

• A thorough analysis of your exam and x-ray findings so we can fix the problem.

If you’re taking pain pills for your back, you are likely making your problem worse. Pain pills, even over-the-counter medications, just mask the problem, and don’t fix your back.

We’ll answer all your most probing question about our pain free back evaluation and what it can do for you. The appointment will not take long at all and you won’t be sitting in a waiting room all day either.

Pain is your body’s warning sign telling you to take it easy. If you mask the pain with pills, you are likely to do things that can prevent your back from healing – maybe even damage it further. Not to mention many of the pain medications available are quite addicting and have drastic side effects.

To take me up on this special offer, you must call 727-242-9932 before October 12 2017. Call and tell the receptionist you’d like to come in for the Special Back Evaluation.

Why Surgery May Not Be Your Only Option We certainly can’t say for sure until I meet you, but surgery may not be your only option. If you go through with surgery, you’re looking at time off from work, weeks to months of rehab, and quite a bit of expense. Why not exhaust all natural, noninvasive options before considering more drastic measures?

Back Pain Is Not Just ‘Old Age’ No question… if you are having back pain then something is wrong. It’s not normal aging to hurt all the time. Pain in your back isn’t just a ‘sign of old age’, if that was true all 360 joints in your body would hurt since your whole body is the same age.

$47 BACK PAIN EVALUATION

($250 VALUE)

Look, you have very little to risk and a lot to gain. Call today and we can get started with your consultation, exam and x-rays as soon as there’s an opening in the schedule. Our office is called Baywest Health & Rehab, LLC and you can find us at 5633 State Road 54 in New Port Richey, FL.

Sincerely, Scott L. Coletti, D.C. P.S. Why Suffer With Years Of Misery?

Why wait and let it get so bad surgery becomes your only option? That’s no way to live.

Call 727-242-9932 today.

I may be able to help you live a normal, pain-free life again.

www.BaywestHealth.com Baywest Health & Rehab, LLC 5633 State Road 54 New Port Richey, FL 727-242-9932 AVAILABLE UNTIL OCTOBER 12 2017

The patient and any other person responsible for payment has a right to refuse to pay, cancel payment, or be reimbursed for payment for other service, Examination, or treatment that is performed as a result of and within 72 hours of responding to advertisement for the free, discounted fee, Reduced fee service, examination, or treatment.

28

Just For Women • October 4, 2O17

Your neighborhood physician is right around the corner.

Caring for women is an important part of what we do. When you need a physician, it’s good to know they are nearby. From obstetrics and gynecological services for women of all ages to treating minor coughs and colds, and managing major chronic diseases and preventative care, we’ve got you covered. Our physicians offer compassionate, customized care that grows with you, and they are now accepting new patients.

Paula Knapp-Baker, DO

George W. Rankin, MD, CAQSM

Gregory Baker, MD

Deborah Renelus, MD, CAQSM

Family Medicine 4140 Woodlands Pkwy | Palm Harbor

Family Medicine 4140 Woodlands Pkwy | Palm Harbor

Craig W. Burns, DO

Family Medicine 4705 Alternate 19, Suite B | Palm Harbor

Family & Sports Medicine 11103 Trinity Blvd | Trinity

Family & Sports Medicine 11103 Trinity Blvd | Trinity

Jose Torres, MD

Internal Medicine 2323 Curlew Road, Suite 7D | Dunedin

This physician practices as part of Florida Hospital North Pinellas Physician Group.

Angelo Cappiello, MD

Giovanni Jubiz, MD, PhD, FACOG

This physician practices as part of Florida Hospital North Pinellas Physician Group.

2160 Duck Slough Blvd, Suite 103 | Trinity

Internal Medicine 4915 Mile Stretch Drive | Holiday

Obstetrics & Gynecology 4705 Alternate 19, Suite B | Palm Harbor

Glenn Lura, MD

Family Medicine 2114 Seven Springs Blvd, Suite 250 | New Port Richey This physician practices as part of Florida Hospital North Pinellas Physician Group.

Schedule your appointment today!

(727) 308-5451 FindMyPhysician.org ONLINE SCHEDULING AVAILABLE

FHPG-10310 FHPG-10310 TBNSN_PSZ News Ad_9.889x10_(F).indd 1

9/21/17 1:44 PM