New Hampshire Women Magazine March 2019

NEW HAMPSHIRE

VOL II ISSUE III 2019

WOM EN MAGAZINE

CELEBRATING THE WOMEN OF NH

LADY BOSS:

BUSINESS ROCKSTARS Page 8

Inside: Understanding Your Blood Pressure Health

pg. 6

SATURDAY

APRIL 6

8:30 A M - 2: 00 P M

GRAPPONE CONFERENCE CENTER CONCORD, NH

THEY’RE TALKING, ARE WE LISTENING? F O R PA R E N T S , E D U CATO R S A N D CO M M U N I T Y

Dartmouth-Hitchcock will host a two-day Summit focused on our youth. On Friday, April 5, invited high-school aged students from across the State of New Hampshire will come together to discuss the challenges they face, celebrate successes and develop solutions. Parents, educators, legislators and anyone interested in the pressures our youth face are invited to attend on Saturday, April 6. Students' voices from Day One will be heard, and observations from the topic experts who attended the previous day's discussion will be shared.

TO P ICS WIL L IN CLUDE :

- Academic Pressures - Addiction - Advocacy - Bullying and Cyberbullying - Community Support - Eating Disorders - Race and Gender Equality - Self Harm - Sexuality, Gender and Sexual Identity - Using Social Media for Good

#DHYOUTHSUMMIT 2 / VOL 2 ISSUE 3 / NEW HAMPSHIRE WOMEN MAGAZINE

R E G IST R AT IO N IS $10 PER PERSON. FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO REGISTER, VISIT:

WWW.DHYOUTHSUMMIT.COM

P R E S E N T E D BY

Advances in Anti-Aging Medicine at Renew MediSpa Lisa Vuich MD, owner of Renew MediSpa and a clinical educator for Specialty MED Training, was invited on stage during the 26th World Congress on Anti-Aging Medicine (A4M) in Las Vegas, NV in December. Dr. Vuich lectured to hundreds of physicians on the use of pharmaceutical peptides in combination with other regenerative therapies, including platelet rich plasma (PRP), shockwave therapy (LI-ESWT) and RF energy for the treatment of sexual dysfunction in both men and women.

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CONTENTS // LADY BOSS:

BUSINESS ROCKSTARS

Amanda Grappone

06 KEYS TO UNDERSTANDING AND MANAGING YOUR BLOOD PRESSURE by Mark Creager

08 COVER FEATURE - LADY BOSS NH Women talks with four

women who have taken the leap and chosen to be their own bosses in challenging fields

11 EMPOWERING THE NEXT

Dr. Lee Garrod

GENERATION OF LEADERS

World Academy principal, Dr. Diaz, has her sights set on the future

13 ASK THE PEDIATRIC

SURGEON Dr. Soukup answers a

parent’s question about lactation

14 LONG-TERM SMOKERS:

THIS PROGRAM COULD SAVE YOUR LIFE by Wentworth-

Douglass Hospital

17 THE IMPORTANCE OF COLONOSCOPIES by Dr. Flannery of SNHHS 19 LET’S TALK ABOUT

HEALTH GOALS with Andrea

Isabelle Lucas

20 THE MINDSET OF AN EMPOWERED WOMAN

Getting to know Terry Ann Bowen.

21 WHAT IS FUNCTIONAL

MEDICINE by Dr. Elisa Mercur

22 UNLEASH YOUR

POTENTIAL featuring Kristen Carroll, CEO of The LMC Group 4 / VOL 2 ISSUE 3 / NEW HAMPSHIRE WOMEN MAGAZINE

Jessica Principe

Dr. Lisa Vuich

THE LADY BOSS ISSUE

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

I

t can be so scary following your dreams. Some days, you may feel like throwing in the towel, or doubt yourself, your ideas, your goals.

Other days, you feel like you’ve got it all together while watching it take shape.

I learned from an early age to dream. My dad worked at a bank in Boston for 18 years. In the 80s, he’d wrestle through the 93 traffic in the wee hours of the morning and make the opposite, yet equally as fierce, trek home each night.

While doing that, he discovered his love and passion for computers and technology (at a time when technology wasn’t a thing). Just two years short of his pension, mostly due to stress of a taxing job, he made the decision to go at it on his own as a software engineering consultant.

Looking back now, it must have been terrifying for him. Is this the best decision for my family? Should I just stay at a safe job and give up this passion of mine? What if it all goes wrong?

Through the years, he built himself a successful computer consulting business specializing in the AS400. The what, you ask? Yes, I asked that too. “You have to have some unique tools in your tool belt, Jill,” he’d say to me. “That’s how you become irreplaceable.”

He’d have shirts with computers on them, mugs with jokes for computer-junkies only on them, and every beeping/blooping device you could think of tucked away in his home office. He just loved technology.

When I was in seventh grade, he told me one day people would be hanging their television sets on the wall. I can remember looking at

the 300-pound Zenith boob tube that clunkyly sat in our family room while thinking there’s no way that could ever happen. But, the man just had such curiosity and such interest and wonderment about the progression of technology, he could give me glimpses into the future.

Sadly, my dad never experienced the day where he’d be hanging a new flat screen on the wall.

The brain that helped his soul experience so much learning, searching, and wonderment was the same part of him that cancer overtook.

When my dad passed away, he was only 55 years old. Since then, we’ve experienced the iPhone, iPad, home automation, social media, and a total digital revolution. I think about how much he has missed and how much he would have loved every second of this technologybooming world.

I also think about how young he was and how quickly life can go.

Wayne Dyer said that at the end of our lives, we should’t die with our music still in us. And, even though my dad’s life was cut so short, I do believe deeply in my heart that he lived his life with true passion. And, that made his life so deep and rich and meaningful.

We all have a passion inside of us. Whether it’s painting, writing, computers, or, heck, juggling! We have to remember to nurture this part of us. It calls on us for a reason.

It whispers to us at night or when we are about to fall asleep. Nurture it. Embrace it. And, WORK on it!

Don’t let that special, unique piece of you go. It’s what make you...you.

Enjoy this amazing issue of New Hampshire Women Magazine!

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BLOOD PRESSUE | WOMEN’S HEALTH

KEYS TO UNDERSTANDING & MANAGING YOUR

BLOOD PRESSURE! Written by Mark Creager, MD

U

ncontrolled high blood pressure is often called the “silent killer” because you can’t feel high blood pressure, nor can you know how high it is until you measure it. And, of all the factors contributing to heart disease, and the potential for having heart disease or a stroke, high blood pressure is number 1.

More than 30 percent of the overall adult population lives with high blood pressure—a percentage, along with the risk of heart disease, that increases as we age. Too many people do not know that they have high blood pressure, and among those who do, there are less that are being treated effectively and bringing their levels under control.

Mark Creager, MD

Early identification of high blood pressure is key to maintaining good cardiovascular health, and it begins with a clear understanding of what blood pressure is, its risks and causes, and how to reasonably manage it in your daily life.

Blood Pressure Basics A blood pressure reading combines two measurements: the maximum, or systolic, pressure your heart creates while beating, and the pressure in your blood vessels between beats, called diastolic pressure.

A blood pressure reading is reported as the systolic number “over” the diastolic, such as “120 over 70,” and commonly written as “120 / 70.”

The American Heart Association recently updated their guidelines on what is a

6 / VOL 2 ISSUE 3 / NEW HAMPSHIRE WOMEN MAGAZINE

What Causes High Blood Pressure?

There is no single cause of high blood pressure. Genetics can play a role, and so can ethnicity—data shows that African Americans bear the highest risk. Other serious conditions, such as kidney or thyroid disease, can also be factors. And, as noted before, your risk grows with age and the stiffening of blood vessels.

For many, lifestyle choices lead to high blood pressure. Among the biggest culprits is a high amount of sodium (e.g. salt) in your diet. The average person’s sodium intake in the U.S. is more than 3.4 grams. The clinically recommended intake is less than 2.3 grams of sodium per day, and ideally less than 1.5 grams for most adults.

High-sodium foods include canned soup, salad dressings, cured hams and other dried meats, cold cuts like pastrami, bread, pizza and vegetable juice, to name a few. Read food labels to monitor your daily sodium intake.

How to Treat and Manage High Blood Pressure Working with your doctor is the best way to bring high blood pressure under control.

Together, you can determine lifestyle changes and possible

medications that are right for you, and create a plan that allows you to check and report your blood pressure from home.

In general, begin with a hearthealthy diet that is low in sodium, low in fat, and includes whole grains, fruits and vegetables.

Limit the amount of alcohol you drink—to no more than one to two drinks a day—to reduce your risk.

Exercise and (if necessary) a weight-loss program are recommended. Ask your physician if fitness or nutritional counselors are available to help you.

Stay in regular contact with your physician. Discuss your progress, challenges and any medication side effects—not just until your first good reading, but for the weeks and possibly months it may take to regularly control your blood pressure.

For many, lifestyle choices lead to high blood pressure.

Among the biggest culprits is a high amount of sodium (e.g. salt) in your diet.

Mark A. Creager, MD, is the Director of the Heart and Vascular Center at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, NH. He is also the Past President of the American Heart Association and served on its National Board of Directors.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY: WILBUR SMOOTH

normal, elevated or high blood pressure: • Normal: Less than 120 / Less than 80 • Elevated: 120-129 / Less than 80 • Stage 1: High (hypertension): 130-139 / 80-89 • Stage 2: 140 or higher / 90 or higher Anyone with a Stage 1 or Stage 2 should speak with their provider to learn how to manage and treat their blood pressure.

ALLIYAH LIVES WITH SICKLE CELL DISEASE, BUT IT DOESN’T STOP HER FROM LIVING LIFE TO THE FULLEST.

Is it time for a career change? Are you a single parent seeking a better job, but don’t have the flexibility to return to school? Are you graduating from high school or college, or transitioning back to civilian life after military service? The Dartmouth-Hitchcock Workforce Readiness Institute offers an alternative to S. traditional career pathways, withAlliyah five training programs that launch meaningful careers in Manchester, NHthe health care industry.

Since the Dartmouth-Hitchcock Workforce Readiness Institute’s launch in 2013, more than 450 people have completed these ready-towork training programs and apprenticeships— with every successful graduate being offered employment within Dartmouth-Hitchcock.

These training programs vary in duration by role, lasting between seven weeks and 11

months and provide participants with: Technical and professional skill development

excited to be part of a team. Technical skill can be taught through training, but the desire to care and help others is important to anyone working in health care.

Access to college credit

Providing opportunities for career development

National certifications and recognition

In addition to these core training programs, over the past four years, Dartmouth-Hitchcock has expanded its college partnerships to include an LPN to RN (registered nurse) program. This program, in partnership with Vermont Technical College, encourages career growth of existing Dartmouth-Hitchcock employees by providing career counseling, scholarship support and tuition reimbursement.

Dartmouth-Hitchcock is also investing in several youth internships and partnerships with high school, vocational/technical and community organizations to attract young

Full-time employment with benefits

The Dartmouth-Hitchcock Workforce Readiness Institute currently offers programs that prepare participants for careers as medical assistants, pharmacy technicians, surgical technicians, ophthalmic assistants and licensed nurse assistants (LNA). A competitive summer internship program for high school and undergraduate students is also available.

Candidates do not need to have past experience in health care but do need to have a desire to help, be motivated to learn and be

NEW HAMPSHIRE’S ONLY CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL. Born with sickle cell disease, Alliyah has relied on the Children’s Hospital at Dartmouth-Hitchcock (CHaD) her entire life. As the only children’s hospital in New Hampshire that offers advanced pediatric services, CHaD is dedicated to providing every child with outstanding and compassionate primary and specialty care. With a focus on innovative research and education, Dartmouth-Hitchcock is there for Alliyah and her family every step of the way.

go.d-h.org/kids nhwomenmagazine.com / VOL 2 ISSUE 2 / 7

COVER FEATURE

LADY

BOSS

NH Women talks with four women who have taken the leap and chosen to be their own bosses in challenging fields.

The Physician

hormone loss in men and women, so there is a strong regenerative medicine component that keeps the “internal medicine” piece active in my mind as well. These days, providing aesthetic services is much more than Botox and dermal fillers.

Dr. Lisa Vuich, owner of Renew MediSpa in Windham, New Hampshire.

Renew MediSpa offers the latest technology in regenerative medicine and facial aesthetics.

Dr. Vuich is considered a leader in the field, and speaks regularly at industry conventions.

Challenges: For me, one early challenge was learning how to delegate. There are a lot of support tasks involved—marketing, educating patients, administrative—and you have to have staff to do this work. You also have to train these people to help you do these jobs well. At the same time, you have to trust that you have good people and let them do their jobs. I now have marketing consultants, which was not the case in the past. It’s better that I delegate these things so that my focus can be on clinical procedures and exploring new technology that might benefit my patients.

Why: I initially had an internal medicine practice, but I always had an interest in aesthetics.

I added aesthetic services in 2005. There was a tremendous response and I found myself providing more of these services. I finally decided to focus on this aspect. I found that I was getting more personal satisfaction from this kind of work. It’s both an art and a science, and I love the rapidly changing technology that keeps everything new and exciting.

Rewards: This field is expanding and evolving at a tremendous rate. There are advances in tools, technology and research taking place every day. The results are truly transforming.

It’s energizing to be part of such a dynamic

8 / VOL 2 ISSUE 3 / NEW HAMPSHIRE WOMEN MAGAZINE

field and to be able to bring these developments to my patients. We also specialize in treating age-related conditions resulting from

It can also be challenging to make time for yourself, but that is so important. I make sure that I build that into my schedule. If I take a business trip, I may add on a couple days to sightsee or unwind. I also build in at least two weeks of vacation each year so my family and

Lady Boss: Business Rockstars I can have that time. On a day-to-day basis, I now have enough staff so that I can take myself out of the schedule here and there, and get in some “me” time.

Advice: When launching a new business, remember that effective marketing is very important. I could have grown faster if I had invested in marketing experts sooner, but I was trying to save money and thought I could do it all myself. That wasn’t true. If you want your business to succeed, people have to find you; they have to know what sets you apart and why they should choose you over your competition. It’s not about “selling,” it’s about helping people find you efficiently. We now have professional marketing assistance and the business has grown incredibly fast. Investing in something that helps you grow is money well spent. Digital marketing is very important, but also highly complex. Being able to communicate what you do to potential and existing customers is not as easy as it sounds, especially in my field. I have found video very effective in helping them get a sense of who we are and what we do. Educating the consumer is always a win-win.

The Auto Dealer

Grappone Automotive Group has been providing exceptional service to car buyers and owners in the Manchester, New Hampshire, area for over 90 years.

It is a popular destination for Ford, Honda, Hyundai, Mazda, and Toyota sales and service. Osmer is the fourth generation of her family to run the company.

Why: I was born into the family business, and worked there starting in high school.

However, I actually never saw myself making a career in the automotive field.

I tried other things, and moved around some, ultimately finding myself on the West Coast selling cars. My dad called to say he was considering retirement and wondered what my plans were.

“I like being able to take action when I see a need. If we see a nonprofit that could use some help, and we feel we can contribute, then we get involved.”

PHOTOGRAPHY BY: WILBUR SMOOTH

I decided that if I was going to sell cars, why not do it with my family? So I came home to work with my dad. The plan was that my brother and I would take over when he retired. My brother and I had similar views when it came to changes we wanted to make within the company.

However, my brother got cancer and died before those these ideas were fully implemented. I was determined to see our vision realized. I should admit upfront that I’m not a gearhead; I like cars, but they are not an obsession. What I really love is serving people.

Amanda Grappone Osmer, owner of Grappone Automotive Group in Bow, New Hampshire.

Rewards: I like being able to take action when I see a need. If we see a nonprofit that could use some help, and we feel we can contribute, then we get involved.

Since we are a privately-held operation, we have the freedom to do things that larger corporations cannot. Being involved in the community is an important part of my job and is actually written into our corporate mission statement.

I also like that we can do business as

we see fit. My brother and I wanted to completely change the car buying experience to make it easier, fairer and more pleasant for the buyer. We agreed to offer pre-negotiated pricing which means that our guests know upfront exactly how much the car costs—there are no games, no add-ons masking the real cost. We’ve also changed the whole way we relate to the customer; I did a Ted Talk about how car dealers have to work to build a more honest reputation. At Grappone, we want to build life-long relationships with our guests, and we are already seeing multiple generations come here to shop. Our corporate mission is to treat people with integrity, kindness, and respect and those principles extend through every level of the organization.

Challenges: You have to take care of your health and make time for yourself and your family. My husband is an amazing partner, but we had three kids in three years and are a busy family. For a few years, I tried to do it all, but it was overwhelming. There came a time several years ago when I was running too hard without clear priorities. I was working constantly and at the end of the day, had nothing left for my family. I remember being very stressed by the logistics of trying to pump breast milk at work and answer the phone at the same time. I knew that enough was enough. After many years of learning and reflection, I now understand that I need to have compassion for myself and be mentally, physically and spiritually healthy so I can serve my family and my team at work.

Advice: Set goals and make a path to achieve them, but don’t try to take on too much at once—things will unravel and become frustrating. I encourage everyone to find a good mentor. (I didn’t have one until I was in my forties—it’s easier said than done!) My mentor encourages me and has my best interests at heart, but also holds me accountable. Last, stay healthy! I would also encourage young women to seek careers in the automotive field. Currently, there are very few women dealers, but the climate is changing and we are seeing more women working their way up. There are great opportunities not just in sales, but also in finance, marketing, parts and service. We have had female service techs and they are great. It’s a dynamic industry and we need strong, confident, compassionate women to be part of it!

nhwomenmagazine.com / VOL 2 ISSUE 2 / 9

love the fact that my business is independent, so I have the freedom to help patients if they need financial assistance, as critical and cancer care can be expensive. Even in those sad moments, I’m glad to be there because I’ve been there before and I understand.

The Veterinarian Dr. Lee Garrod, owner of Veterinary Emergency, Critical Care & Referral Center in Newington, New Hampshire, Southern New Hampshire Veterinary Referral Hospital in Manchester, and several others.

These hospitals provide urgent care to animals in need of emergency services, as well as critical care such as cancer treatment, and specialized procedures such as ultrasounds, endoscopies, and biopsies. The emergency centers are also open 24-hours so that patients can be treated when time is of the essence.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY: WILBUR SMOOTH

Why: I have always wanted to help animals; I truly never considered another career. I’ve enjoyed being a hands-on vet, and still am—I do special procedures such as biopsies, endoscopies, and ultrasounds, and consult on cardiac issues a few days each week. However, I also think it is important that quality veterinary facilities for specialized services are available where needed. I bought my first practice, a general veterinary practice, back in 1997, then gradually acquired the others as opportunities arose. I never had a real plan to do so—things just worked out.

Rewards: I do have a lot on my plate, but I’ve become good at delegating. The reward is that I can really schedule my life the way I want. I can work as much as I want, and also plan time for the things that I enjoy, such as dressage.

I’ve also found that this arrangement actually has allowed me to learn more and thus provide better services to my patients. This past year, I took a rehab course and became certified. It showed me how important rehab is for animals and that the number of qualified facilities is low. We will now be creating a certified rehab space to fill this need. If I had not had a flexible schedule that allowed me to explore other interests, I would never have made the move to offer such an important service.

Challenges: I can honestly say that I don’t feel overly stressed by my work. I love being an ER vet—it is exciting, energizing, challenging. I 10 / VOL 2 ISSUE 3 / NEW HAMPSHIRE WOMEN MAGAZINE

Probably my biggest challenge is that I’m a fixer. I want my employees to be happy; I want us to offer a good work environment, a good atmosphere. We cannot compete with some of the larger corporations on pay, but being a great place to work, especially in a field that can be stressful and cause burn-out, is really important. If I hear of anyone being unhappy or any issues, I want to jump right in and make it better. But sometimes I have to accept that everything can’t be fixed or be perfect and you can only do the best you can.

Advice: If you are going to run a business, make sure that there is structure.

Make sure that there is an operations handbook, an employee handbook—that you have everything in writing. Treat employees well, and treat everyone the same. If you are going into self-employed veterinary care, I strongly recommend developing some specialties; these might be learning procedures such as endoscopy, ultrasound or acupuncture— things you saws a little of in vet school, but didn’t learn. Or, maybe you specialize in exotics or birds; these are areas where there is still a gap in services. Learning new things will also keep you interested, as well as make you more marketable.

Whatever career you choose, invest in yourself and keep going. You’ll make it!

The Entrepreneur Jessica Principe, owner and founder of All Girl Shave Club Principe created All Girls Shave Club, which is based out of Merrimack, New Hampshire, to fill a unique product need.

The Club provides fun, feminine and unique shaving products to women via a monthly subscription service.

Why: Being an entrepreneur is in my blood; I come from a family of entrepreneurs, so I always knew I would start my own business one day. I just wasn’t sure what form it was going to take. Then, in 2016, I got the idea while shaving my legs.

I had borrowed one of my husband’s razors. He belonged to a razor subscription service where he got nice, fresh, sharp razors delivered regularly. I thought, “Why

shouldn’t women have their own special shaving products?” I did my research, and by the end of 2016 I launched All Girl Shave Club. It was hard work, but the Club has taken off. I was clearly filling a need that no one else had thought to tap into.

Rewards: I love the flexibility of being my own boss. I can work around my family’s schedule, so I’m there for them. I love being able to be home when my two children come home from school. My family is very important to me, and this business has given me the means to work, yet have time for them. I also find that running my own company gives me a creative outlet and challenges me in a good way. I love what I do, and find great satisfaction in sourcing products and running the company.

Challenges: For all of the benefits, running a business is a huge challenge. You have a lot of responsibilities and problems to solve, especially initially. When I started, I was used to having the resources of a big corporation available. If you had a computer problem, you just called the IT department. When you are on your own, you have to figure things out for yourself. Every issue that comes up, you have to find a solution. I put in a LOT of hours that first year. I was still working full time, managing my home, and then putting every free moment toward launching the business. However, it was worth it. Now, the business is going well and I can enjoy more time with my family.

Advice: Give yourself permission to be a beginner. You don’t have to know everything to get started. It’s okay to learn as you go. I changed my mind a number of times about exactly what direction my business was going to take as I went through the process. You also need trust yourself—some of the things I wound up doing went against what others recommended, but I felt that they were the right move, and they were, for me. I also always look for ways to grow and expand the business. For example, I’ll be launching some new products for 2019, such as new creams and lotions. I’m always looking for ways to innovate and help All Girl Shave Club reach its potential!

EMPOWERING KIDS | EDUCATION

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SummerQuest Day Camp offers convenient, oneweek sessions that are jam-packed with fun, adventure, new friendships and unique experiences.

Camps available for students entering K-Grade 5 Academic Enrichment Programs for students entering Grades 4-8

603.888.1982 WorldAcademyNH.com/SummerCamp 138 Spit Brook Road, Nashua, NH 03062

Empowering The Next Generation of Leaders: Dr. Dias Has Her Sights Set On The Future Lisa Celone Dias joined World Academy in 2001 as a physical education and health teacher and, in 2007, stepped into the role of principal.

She earned her Masters in Education from Plymouth State University with K-12 certification, and her Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Learning from Rivier University in 2016, before taking the reigns as Head of School at World Academy from Founder and President, Kathy Nelson, in 2018.

With dedication to rich, diverse student experiences, Dr. Dias and her leadership

team guide teachers and students with a focus on educating the “whole child”, while strengthening crucial 21st century skills involving communication, collaboration, creativity, critical thinking, civic responsibility and global awareness.

That means empowering students to be innovative thinkers who confidently embrace academic rigor and challenge as part of the learning process .

Espousing a wellrounded approach to education, World Academy helps students reach outside their comfort zone to explore

new interests and opportunities, while developing selfdirection, teamwork, perseverance and accountability.

Integrating Evolving Theories and Philosophies Into Curriculum.

“Understanding how students learn and process new information allows us to better meet the needs of our students,” says Dr. Dias. “By taking what we know about the brain and learning, we can apply researchbased techniques to enhance our teaching and personalize learning. Students are growing up in a rapidly changing

world and their futures will present far different opportunities and careers than those of today. We want to provide them with the hard and soft skills needed to synthesize knowledge from multiple disciplines in order to address future challenges”.

World Academy offers students an opportunity to flourish in a diverse culture that promotes a love of learning while fostering empathy and respect for others. Thus, making tomorrow’s leaders much more capable of respectfully handling challenges and leading our communities into a brighter global future.

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MAULING

Elliot Hospital: Ask the Pediatric Surgeon

BOULDERS

Q.

Dr. Soukup, My lactation specialist noticed a tongue tie on my 5 day old baby. Breastfeeding has been difficult and painful. What should I do?

Angela S.

Dear Angela,

A tongue tie refers to a short, thin membrane underneath the tongue that restricts normal movement of the tongue. It is present in about 3-5% of babies. Good mobility of the tongue is important for a deep latch during breastfeeding to promote a mother’s milk supply and prevent soreness of the nipples.

Many babies have a family history of tongue tie, so parents may notice it right away. Usually, however, it is diagnosed by pediatricians or lactation specialists before babies are referred to see me. When a tongue tie is causing symptoms, such as difficulties with nursing and nipple soreness, then it makes sense to release the frenulum. This is actually quick to do in the office or at the bedside, and is well tolerated by the babies. I swaddle the baby so they are comfortable, and then snip the frenulum which takes less than a second to do. Most of the time, babies don’t even cry or they settle immediately.

I will usually have mom nurse or feed a bottle right away, and many moms tell me they notice a difference in the latch right away. I have the family do some little tongue stretches and massage with their pinkie finger for a week or two to keep the

frenulum from reattaching as it heals. Even when there is no difficulty with nursing or bottle feeds, we do know that down the road, some speech difficulties can arise in the setting of tongue tie, so I still think it make sense to release the frenulum as a newborn. Waiting until children are older with speech impairments can make this more difficult to treat, because it requires a general anesthesia, and more complex repair, and may require ongoing speech therapy. I will say, that if you research this question online there is a wide range of opinions and practices which can be very confusing. However, based on my understanding of the medical data as well as the hundreds of babies I have cared for, this approach makes the most sense to me. As a final note, I always look at the upper lip frenulum during my exam. There is naturally a membrane here, which I usually leave alone, except in unusual cases where the lip seems very restricted. This also is straightforward to release in the office, but is less commonly needed.

Thanks for your question!

-Dr. Soukup

Elizabeth S. Soukup, M.D., M.M.Sc. Pediatric Surgeon

Dr. Soukup is a Pediatric Surgeon at the Elliot Hospital and has an interest in educating families about pediatric health and wellness. Her mission is to provide expert specialty care for children of all ages in New Hampshire - newborns through teenagers - striving to keep them close to their families and communities.

If you would like more information, call 603-663-8393 for an appointment, or visit our website at http://elliothospital.org/website/pediatric-surgery.php Dr. Soukup earned her Bachelor of Science from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and her Doctor of Medicine from the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, where she received the Outstanding Achievement Award in Medicine, graduating first in her class. She completed her General Surgery training at the Massachusetts General Hospital and her fellowship in Pediatric Surgery at Children’s Hospital Boston. During her time in Boston, she also completed a Masters of Medical Sciences degree in clinical

investigation from Harvard Medical School. She is boardcertified in both Pediatric Surgery and General Surgery.

She has specialized training and experience in minimally invasive surgical treatment for babies, children and teenagers.

Her practice includes all areas of general pediatric surgery, including common pediatric surgical problems as well as neonatal surgery, congenital anomalies, minimally invasive surgery, and complex thoracic surgical problems.

Please send your questions to: askthepediatricsurgeon@elliot-hs.org

nhwomenmagazine.com / VOL 2 ISSUE 2 / 13

CANCER CARE | WOMEN’S HEALTH

LONG-TERM SMOKERS:

THIS PROGRAM COULD SAVE YOUR LIFE Wentworth Health Partners offers a network of primary care offices and two walk in centers throughout the Seacoast region. Call the Wentworth Health Partners Primary Care Finder at (603) 740-2377 to learn more.

C

ould a painfree, low-risk screening help prevent lung cancer deaths? Would you take such a test if it was available to you?

Lung cancer takes a heavy toll on Americans. It’s the third most common cancer diagnosis and the leading cause of cancer-related deaths nationwide. This startling fact is because lung cancer is often diagnosed in the late stages – past the point when treatments are effective.

But, lung cancer can be cured if it’s found early enough.

Recent studies are pointing to low-dose computed tomography (CT) as a new hope for detecting lung cancer as early as possible in current and former smokers. The screening itself is quick and painless, and the radiation exposure is similar to that of a mammogram or chest X-ray. Each patient’s chest CT is reviewed by a board certified radiologist with expertise in chest imaging.

If follow-up is needed, thoracic surgery, pulmonary medicine and oncology experts work together to develop a comprehensive

treatment plan. A dedicated Nurse Navigator is also there to support and guide patients through additional testing, follow-up care and treatments.

Early Diagnosis Saves Lives A persistent cough is frequently the first sign of trouble, but by then it’s often too late and the cancer has spread too far past the stage where it can be managed. That’s why early detection is so important.

“Early detection of lung cancer can greatly reduce suffering and mortality, compared to diagnosis after symptoms begin,” says Dr. Matthew Goldberg, a primary care physician with Wentworth Health Partners.

“A persistent

cough is frequently the first sign of trouble, but by then it’s often too late and the cancer has spread too far past the stage where it can be managed.”

In fact, studies have shown that annual low-dose CT scans lower the risk of death by 20 percent for people who are high risk, including smokers. The

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“Early detection of lung cancer can greatly reduce suffering and mortality, compared to diagnosis after symptoms begin.”

them quit.

Talk to your health care professional about a smoking cessation program. These oneon-one counseling sessions set step-by-step goals to help patients succeed. Many insurance providers cover up to eight sessions.

Am I Eligible?

To be eligible for the Lung

benefits are significant, but no test is perfect. The scans can find false positives – something that turns out to be benign. In addition, about 5 to 10 percent of patients who are scanned will have an abnormality in another area, such as the kidney, liver or thyroid, which requires additional imaging tests or a referral to a specialist. Low-dose CT lung screenings have proven to be so effective that they are covered as preventative care by many insurance providers, including Medicare.

Prevention is Best Of course, quitting smoking is your best defense against lung cancer. If you’ve tried to quit smoking in the past, keep trying – each attempt will help you reach your goal. Each patient who’s eligible for the Lung Cancer Screening Program will have the opportunity to discuss with their providers the options and resources available to help

Cancer Screening Program at Wentworth-Douglass Hospital, you must meet these criteria: 1. You are between 55 and 77 years old 2. You are currently a smoker or have quit within the past 15 years.

3. You have smoked 30 or more “pack years” of cigarettes. (An average of a pack a day for 30 years or two packs a day for 15 years.)

Learn More Talk to your primary care provider to see if you are eligible for The Lung Cancer Screening Program at Wentworth-Douglass Hospital.

If you need a provider, call the Wentworth Health Partners Referral Service at (603) 740-2377, and we can help you choose one who is right for you.

* Special Section: Content provided by Wentworth-Douglass Hospital

Hope shines with the brightest care.

At the Wentworth-Douglass Hospital Seacoast Cancer Center, we develop a unique treatment plan for every patient, using a caring, collaborative approach that’s focused on your needs.

Between our expert clinicians and innovative treatment options, we offer the region’s most comprehensive approach to cancer care—so your hope can shine.

wdhospital.org/cancer • 789 Central Avenue, Dover, NH 03820 • Coming soon to Portsmouth nhwomenmagazine.com / VOL 2 ISSUE 2 / 15

The best place for my career and my health.

Elaine, deNicola Breast Health Center

We are proud to be recognized as a top employer and health care provider in our region!

Learn more at SNHhealth.org/Best

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THE IMPORTANCE OF REGULAR

COLONOSCOPIES

O

ften dreaded, colonoscopy is one of the most recommended medical procedures for adults.

Colorectal screening tests are incredibly accurate and can prevent cancer— or at the very least detect it at the earliest stages when treatment works best.

Though the thought of a colonoscopy might be unpleasant, the advantages of getting one significantly outweigh the troubles of the test.

Colon Cancer and Pre-Cancerous Polyps Colon cancer is the second leading cancer killer in the United States. However, if detected early, most forms of colon cancer can be cured.

Cancer develops in the colon when adenomyosis polyps—pre-cancerous polyps—aren’t removed in a timely manner.

Regular screenings are recommended, because these polyps are typically asymptomatic until they become cancerous. Certain types of polyps cause bleeding as they grow, but they rarely cause pain, allowing them to grow undetected until it’s too late.

The Gold Standard of Cancer Screenings Colonoscopies are considered the gold standard for colorectal screening tests because they’re very effective at detecting precancerous polyps.

Not only does the test reveal the presence of these dangerous polyps, but the polyps are typically removed during the procedure. If the polyp is very large, which is rare, the patient would require an operation to remove the polyp. Beyond that, the detection and removal both occur at the same time.

New Testing Standards Though medical professionals have historically recommended colonoscopies starting at the age of 50, experts are now changing that to age 45.

“These tests are so effective at detection that we’re now recommending patients start them even earlier,” states Dr. John V. Flannery Jr. from Southern New Hampshire Health. “Of course, if a patient has a family history of colon cancer, especially first-degree relatives like a parent or sibling, he should have his first colonoscopy five years prior to when his relative was diagnosed. This gives physicians the greatest chance of catching the cancer before it takes hold.”

Alternative Testing Methods Though colonoscopies are thought of as the best option for colon cancer screening, there are other testing options available for those who are fearful of the prep and procedure.

A variety of occult tests look for blood in the stool, including the guaiac test, which analyzes four different samples, the immunological fecal occult blood testing (iFBOT), which looks at one sample, and Cologuard, which involves sending a stool sample to a lab that looks for polyp DNA. CAT scans may also be able to detect polyps in the colon.

Though all options are fairly accurate— there’s roughly a 5% chance of a polyp being missed— Dr. Flannery cautions that if any of these tests comes back positive, a colonoscopy will still be required.

“If you’re leery of a colonoscopy, you do have other options,” notes Flannery. “Because these tests are so accurate, there’s no reason

Written by Dr. Flannery, colorectal surgeon at Colorectal & Rectal Surgery of New England

to not get screened at the appropriate age.

It’s one day of discomfort that saves you from developing cancer, so it’s worth it.”

The Dreaded Prep Much of the unpleasantness associated with colonoscopies comes with the prep. However, there are a variety of prep methods that can be customized to meet the patient’s needs. Though high-volume prep is often prescribed, some newer methods allow patients to consume much smaller volumes of the prep fluid.

“Most of my patients tolerate the prep fairly well,” explains DFlannery. “If you’re nervous, you can always ask for anti-nausea medicine just in case. By the day after the procedure, you’re back to normal.”

Because colonoscopies are so effective at finding and removing pre-cancerous polyps, Dr. Flannery dubs them a “slam dunk in medicine.”

“For patients who are nervous or hesitant to do the procedure, I always remind them of one thing. The one-day prep is a lot better than going through months of chemo. So, just get it done.”

For more information on colorectal screenings, visit www.SNHHealth.org For more information on colorectal screenings, listen to Dr. Flannery’s podcast at SimplyHealthPodcast.org or visit SNHhealth.org/colonoscopy.

Dr. Flannery is a colorectal surgeon at Colon & Rectal Surgery of New England. He is double board certified in Colorectal Surgery and General Surgery. He has been elected as a fellow in both the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons and the American College of Surgeons.

nhwomenmagazine.com / VOL 2 ISSUE 2 / 17

Lindsay Gordon

Hyundai Sales Manager 7 years

Sarah Carpenter

Guest Experience Manager 4 years

Alaina Gonzalez Digital Strategist 1 year

Amanda Grappone Osmer 4th Generation

Vickie Kaspszak

Sr. Guest Relations Manager 35 years

MAX DOE Carole Smith

Toyota Sales Manager 25 years

Rachel Brown

Sales Training Specialist 6 years

Allie Gutierrez Digital Producer 1 year

Penny Stafford

Ford/Mazda Parts Manager 18 years

See what makes us different.

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Toyota Parts Manager 31 years

Lynda Krieger

Director | Accounting & IT 33 years

We’re not your average car dealership.

FITNESS | WOMEN’S HEALTH

LET’S TALK Written by Andrea Isabelle Lucas Founder, Barre & Soul

HEALTH GOALS!

On the outside, Barre & Soul® might look like an everyday barre and yoga studio— with an edgy, hip vibe—but its DNA is much different than any other class out there. That’s largely because of the vision that founder Andrea Isabelle Lucas had when she launched the company in 2013 and rapidly expanded to 5 studios from New Hampshire to Rhode Island, with a flagship location in the heart of Harvard Square… and more studios to come.

I

n order to set yourself up for the most efficient path to success in your health goals, you need to put a few things in place to ensure you’re operating with a strong foundation – inside and out.

Here are a few pieces of advice:

Be Present As you set goals for the future, be sure you don’t lose sight of accomplishments you’ve already made, and successes you’ve achieved. Take a moment, bask in gratitude for the goodness you have right now – especially your health and vitality, and the opportunity to wake up each morning with a new day in front of you.

We often fall into the trap of feeling like we’ll finally “be happy when…?” Goals are great, but it’s important not to live in a constant state of anticipation of the future at the expense of the present.

Do you have a future aspiration that is serving as a roadblock to your happiness today? Ask yourself where and how this kind of thinking tends to trip you up – pay attention to that so you can enjoy the present while working towards an even more rewarding future.

•

• • •

•

Create Space •

Clear out the excess clutter. File or get rid of old papers and receipts.

Donate items you’re not really excited about. Give them away before they crowd-out space that should be reserved for things that bring you joy.

•

Create some breathing room. Remind yourself how important it is to take great care of your body. It’s the only one you’ll get!

Go grocery shopping and stock up on your favorite healthy foods.

Make a plan to skip alcohol for a while.

Clear unhealthy options out of your kitchen so you’re not constantly tempted to pick them up.

Go for a walk, or try a new winter activity like snowshoeing or crosscountry skiing.

Schedule a couple workouts this week and consider inviting friends or family.

Envision Reflect on and celebrate all the achievements you’ve made in the last year. Decide where you want

to go from here, and start by listing your top three goals. Then tell someone. Pick three more people and tell them too! Now your goals have life and you have accountability!

A fun exercise for goal setting is to create a vision board! If you’ve not done one before this is a collection of images, photos, and words that symbolize and depict where you want to go, things you want to or have already achieved. Studies show that if we put this in a prominent place where we can see it clearly for even just a few seconds each day – our chances of manifesting our dreams skyrocket.

Whatever your goals are they deserve to be owned - by YOU!

nhwomenmagazine.com / VOL 2 ISSUE 2 / 19

PERSONAL SAFETY | FEATURE

T

PHOTOGRAPHY BY: WILBUR SMOOTH

erryAnn Bowen never expected to be the co-owner of a firing range. She grew up in a selfdescribed anti-gun home and anti-gun community, and being involved with firearms was not on her radar. \That

all changed when she married a Marine. “We were able to really talk about our opinions and concerns and each of us educated the other,” she says. “We gradually met in the middle of the road.” Initially, Bowen’s husband worked in the firearms industry while she was employed as a secret shopper and helped others improve their businesses based on her feedback.

When the opportunity came to buy an indoor public firing range, her husband urged her to be his partner, believing that her business acumen would be an asset. He also thought that she would be a great resource when it came to educating others about safe firearm ownership and introducing women to firearms.

“At first, I thought he was crazy,” says Bowen. “But the more I thought about it, the

more I realized that, with my background, I brought a unique perspective to the business. I could really help create awareness about responsible gun ownership, and help women with selfdefense training.”

Today, Manchester Firing Line in Manchester, New Hampshire, works with top law enforcement and military personnel to educate the public about safe and responsible gun ownership. The facility also offers free Intro to Gun Ownership seminars, and teaches women both selfdefense and defensive awareness classes.

“Defensive awareness teaches women to be more aware of their situations and environments so that they can hopefully avoid needing to use self-defense,” explains Bowen. “When it comes to self-defense, we teach women that there are levels of defense, from hitting someone where it hurts, to using a Taser or Mace, and so on. The goal is to protect yourself, but to avoid escalation if you can safely do so.”

Bowen is also committed to making sure that their business

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is actively engaged in the community. After losing her mother to breast cancer, and seeing her mother-in-law battle the disease, she made fundraising for breast cancer research an annual goal. “Boobs & Bullets” is a month-long campaign held every October to raise funds for local breast cancer support programs. The effort raises thousands each year through selling T-shirts, pink targets, and 50/50 raffles.

The range also supports Harbor Homes, Toys for Tots, New Horizons and countless local charities and youth sports organizations.

In addition, Bowen actively involves the range in boosting local businesses. They have launched a classic car cruise night, which runs Monday nights Memorial Day through Labor Day. Hundreds of people come to the range to see the cars, enjoy music and have fun.

“This year, we are also adding a local food truck, which we think people will love,” says Bowen.

“Hopefully, it will increase their business as well. We are always looking for ways to partner with the community and help out.”

Running a gun range may not have been part of Bowen’s game plan, but she is grateful for the opportunities it has provided. “We have been able to use our company and resources to help a lot of people and we plan to grow that effort,” she says. “I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished and excited to see what else we can do!”

Personalized, Lifestyle Medicine now in windham

Expect more.

Don’t just schedule a visit. Establish a relationship with your physician today.

Sparkle Health specializes in true root cause analysis of your symptoms and personalized treatment of the following health issues:

Meet Dr. Elisa Mercuro

Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine Specializing in Functional Medicine.

Want to learn more about what Functional Medicine can do for you?

Please visit www.sparklehealthnh.com

✴ Gastrointestinal disorders such as GERD, IBS, IBD ✴ Immune system disorders ✴ Cognitive decline and other neurodegenerative conditions ✴ Thyroid imbalances ✴ Hormonal imbalances ✴ High toxic burden and detoxification ✴ Mental health disorders like anxiety and depression

603.328.8101 • 127 Rockingham Road, Suite 203 • Windham, NH • 03087

WHAT IS

FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE?

Functional Medicine is a better approach to healthcare. Unlike conventional medicine it does not focus on symptoms, but instead treats the ailments or diseases that are causing issues in the first place. While pharmaceutical solutions are emphasized in conventional medical care, functional medicine emphasizes lifestyle and overall wellness when treating patients, focusing on chronic conditions.

A

Functional medicine empowers the patient to optimize the following factors: NUTRITION Diet should include plenty of vegetables and some fruits. Fat, protein and carbohydrates play a role in how the diet can increase or decrease health risks. When we are lacking key vitamins and minerals, our body does not function as efficiently. We help patients personalize their food plan to choose the right balance for their health conditions and genetic predispositions.

SLEEP One third of American’s sleep less than 6 hours per night and many more have disrupted sleep.

Sleep disorders and impaired sleep quality are often overlooked risk factors for chronic health conditions such as cardiovascular disease and hormone imbalances. Sleep is essential to all functions of the body and not giving our body enough of it can be a health risk.

MOVEMENT Modern life is more sedentary. Our bodies need to move! Research on exercise suggests most of us need at least 150 minutes of cardiovascular activity per week. Adding strength training, stretching and activities that help with balance is optimal. Not getting enough physical activity is a risk factor for chronic disease.

TOXINS

RELATIONSHIPS Other overlooked areas are our social and personal connections to each other. When there is discord in our social networks, or there is a lack of connection to others, it can affect our health.

Our body is exposed to environmental toxins on a daily basis. Exposure affects our immune systems causing inflammation and many chronic ailments. Functional Medicine uses methods that help naturally eliminate these toxins to improve health.

STRESS Stress affects our body’s mentally, physically and emotionally. When over-activated on a consistent basis the stress hormones released contributes to health risks of all kinds.

Reducing stress is critical for overall health.

PERSONALIZED CARE A functional medicine doctor will look through the latest research to see if there is anything that applies to your health concerns. Treatment plans are personalized and unique for each patient. Visit sparklehealthnh.com for more information about our practice!

DOM FURORE

nhwomenmagazine.com / VOL 2 ISSUE 2 / 21

Kristen Carroll: A Value-Driven Leader

K

office

risten Carroll, CEO of The LMC Group consulting firm, knows how to help businesses grow and succeed.

When Kristen started LMC, she had a vision for a new kind of company: a team of highly qualified and experienced members who had limitless potential as well as social awareness. LMC is a values-driven company with these core principles: •

Organizational health and wellness

•

Astonishing service and excellence

•

Integrity

•

A thriving and engaged team

•

Contributing to local economies

•

Fiscal responsibility

•

Corporate citizenship

The LMC Group is a small company, but it provides big benefits for employees. Kristen made the decision to offer health care coverage, a retirement plan, unlimited PTO, and a variety of other benefits unusual in a company its size. Kristen advises clients to treat their employees well, and she follows her own advice. It’s the right thing to do, and it has the added benefit of bringing out the best in her team members.

Kristen Carroll, CEO of The LMC Group consulting firm

When faced with a decision between an ethical choice and a profitable choice, it’s not even a question for Kristen—ethics wins every time.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY: WILBUR SMOOTH

UNLEASH YOUR POTENTIAL HR

FINANCE

CREATIVE

SOCIAL

PR

OPS

THE LMC GROUP Your Not-So-Silent Business Partners

lmc.group

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Kristen knew from the beginning that wellness would be one of The LMC Group’s top priorities. Physical wellness benefits both employee and employer. LMC uses multiple approaches to encourage healthy living from its employees: • Monthly fitness challenges with prizes • A five-month challenge to work out for 100 hours • Unlimited PTO • Fitness club reimbursement • An office plants reimbursement for anyone using a home

•

Healthy snacks in the office

•

A smoking cessation bonus

•

Team retreats with healthy activities such as 5Ks and city-wide scavenger hunts

•

Flexible schedule options

Kristen counts LMC’s generosity as an early and ongoing success. One of her unstated yet bedrock beliefs is that doing good things leads to other good things.

Many young, small companies might be wary of committing to giving while they are in a building phase, but Kristen decided to give first and give generously.

In return, LMC gets the obvious benefits of goodwill from the community and the joy that giving creates. More than that, though, Kristen finds that generosity attracts the kinds of top-quality employees, clients, and partners who share the same values.

•

The LMC Group has been giving back since it opened.

•

Participating in #GivingTuesday every year

•

Offering two paid community service days for each employee each year

•

Giving to National Wear Red Day for women’s heart health

•

Fundraising for the victims of the Pulse nightclub tragedy

•

Charity half-marathon for victims of the Oklahoma City bombings

•

Raising money for Girls At Work

•

Raising money for the New Horizons Homeless Shelter and Food Bank

•

Raising money for Big Brothers Big Sister

•

Donations to clients’ charitable efforts

When faced with a decision between an ethical choice and a profitable choice, it’s not even a question for Kristen— ethics wins every time. Ethical business practices are integral to The LMC Group, spelled out in its values of contribution, responsibility, and integrity. Every time Kristen has made what felt like a sacrifice in service of her ethics, she has never regretted that decision. To Kristen, integrity is its own reward.

NoPregnancyIsPerfect.com

what if I catch a cold while pregnant?

nhwomenmagazine.com / VOL 2 ISSUE 2 / 23

Shorter wait times than the emergency department and now in three convenient locations!

Bedford

25 Leavy Drive 9am - 8pm

River’s Edge

185 Queen City Avenue 7am - 10pm

Londonderry

40 Buttrick Road 9am - 8pm

Open 7 Days a Week Please visit www.elliothospital.org/urgentcare for current wait times.

Elliot Health System is a non-profit organization serving your healthcare needs since 1890.

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