October 2015 Lake Norman Woman Magazine

A n n u a l

pink pages Wo r d s to F i g h t B y

meet the 2015

wo m e n o f w i l l

e y r ’ e u k

finalists

yo

e h t

g urin reastrs t a e b f n ivo

lk rv ht su eig cer n ca

Live.Play.Golf.

18 HOLES of award-winning Gene Bates golf, nestled amid 91 exciting home sites. A secure,relaxing Golf Club environment in this beautiful Gated Community. This is Fairway living at its best.

I-40 Exit 141 / Statesville.

704-491-4640. Model Open.

Mortgage Financing Provided By

TAMMY STOWE NMLS ID # 91236

704-685-4366 Member FDIC

www.monarchmortgage.com/tstowe

www.debigallorealty.com

ed e N e W Soap Shampoo Conditioner Toothpaste Toothbrushes Combs Hair Brushes Razors Washcloths

For our neighbors in need, my charity provides soap, shampoo and other toiletries which are often overlooked in support programs.

This month, I ask for your help in reaching a special goal of filling the Back of a Cadillac with your donated items!

Between now and October 17th, bring unopened shampoo, soap, conditioner, toothpaste, washcloths, combs, etc. to Randy Marion Cadillac at 220 W. Plaza Dr. With your generous support, we can make a big difference in lives of the less fortunate in our community. I’ll see you October 17th and thanks for your help:) Alexandria Mills

Lotions

And other common bath & grooming products.

For more information: GiveSoapForHope.com

Saturday, October 17th at

Special Thanks to Christian Mission

220 W. Plaza Drive · Mooresville · 704-664-3303

P lease J oin

lake norman Woman magazine f o r t h e 3 rd a n n u a l

Awards & Luncheon

Thursday, December 10, 2015 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.

Charles Mack Citizen Center | 215 N. Main Street | Mooresville, NC 28115

featuring

Tickets on Sale Now $45/Individual Tickets $360/Reserved Tables of 8 Emcee Sheri Lynch

Nationally Syndicated Host of The Bob & Sheri Show

For more information and to purchase tickets: www.lakenormanwoman.com

Please RSVP By November 24, 2015 gold sponsors

silver sponsor

portion of proceeds benefit

I ntroducing the Women Of Will

2015 finalists

J a n e B o lt o n

S a n d y Ta b o r - G r ay

Teri Hutchens

L i s a M ay h e w - J o n e s

d r . k at h l e e n r u ss o

Brenda Robinson

Awa r d s L u n c h e o n : Thursday, December 10, 2015 from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m at the Charles Mack Center; Emcee Sheri Lynch from 107.9 Reserve your seats today!

Visit www.lakenormanwoman.com

Pat s y W i l s o n

Hedvika Miller

For a list of all nominees for the 2015 Women of Will, visit www.lakenormanwoman.com

LY N O T N E V YS E A , E W A IM E T V I E G ON S& L A I SPEC

You’re invited to our Beauty Bash event, where you can speak one-on-one with our board-certified plastic surgeons, aestheticians and patients.

Enjoy event-only specials on injectables, Medical Spa services, skincare and surgery.

View live demonstrations for non-invasive to minimally invasive procedures and tour our accredited surgical facility. Call us to find out how you can still take advantage of the event specials even if you can’t make the event.

CHECK OUT THE FULL LIST OF OUR EVENT-ONLY SPECIALS AND GIVEAWAYS AT HKCBASH.COM

SouthPark

beauty B A S H • 5th annual •

FRIDAY, OCT. 9 / 4PM to 7PM

Huntersville SATURDAY, OCT. 10 / 10AM to 4PM

H KC B AS H .CO M / 704-774-5106

.

sta f f

.

publisher

Dana Nieters

dana@lakenormanwoman.com

volume ix, number v

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LKN

you’re the key

editor

Amy Hallman

amy@lakenormanwoman.com

Operations support & contributing writer Leslie Ogle

leslie@lakenormanwoman.com

Senior Account executive Stephanie Sullivan

stephanie@lakenormanwoman.com

advertising account executive Sandy Comer

sandy@lakenormanwoman.com

distribution manager Juli Simmons

ads@lakenormanwoman.com

art director Chelsea Bren

chelsea@lakenormanwoman.com

O c to b e r co n t r i bu to rs :

Linda Gebelein; The Susan G. Komen Foundation; Rhonda Lennon; Dr. Megan Lineberger; Dr. Serena Murray

c o n tac t u s : PO Box 1000 Cornelius, NC | 28031

704.895.6168

www.lakenormanwoman.com

Ad Submissions: ads@lakenormanwoman.com Lake Norman Woman reserves the right to deny any advertisement or listing that does not meet Lake Norman Woman standards. Submissions are welcome but unsolicited materials are not guaranteed to be returned.

Lake Norman Woman assumes no responsibility for information, products, services or statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. An advertised special printed in this publication is subject to change without notice. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher is prohibited.

October

{from

th e

publisher}

I’ll be happy to see 2015 go. My father passed away unexpectedly earlier this year, and the Alzheimer’s that is stealing my stepfather from us is progressing more rapidly than we can bear. The stress of both has impacted my sleep, my eating habits and most definitely, my sanity. I thought perhaps that adopting the stray cat that showed up last month might be just the distraction I needed….Who knew that you can catch a really, really nasty case of ringworm from a stray cat?

Unfortunately, dealing with life’s upheavals can cause me to become frozen. And unlike Elsa, the cold really does bother me. My state of mental inertia also annoys those who depend upon me to get my you-know-what in gear. Life-altering choices aren’t required to freeze my decisive abilities; depending on my stress level, a query as simple as “What do I make for dinner?” can stymie me. When this happens, my go-to coping mechanism is to pull a Scarlett O’Hara and decide to not think about making a decision. Why, after all, should I agonize over something today that I can put off agonizing over until tomorrow?

The problem with this strategy is that because all our decisions lead us down a certain path, not making a decision can lead us away from the path on which we need to be. In this state of indecision, I almost always end up on the path that leads me directly to a big bag of Reese’s Cups and a glass of wine. Don’t get me wrong: I love Reese’s Cups and wine. But unless I want the path to take me to the nearest Weight Watchers and a detox center, I probably need to consider the benefits of tackling difficult decisions in the first place so that I end up where I need to be instead.

It’s the lack of control that paralyzes me. What if I make a mistake? What if I choose A when I should have chosen B? What if, despite

my best efforts, I can’t manage every possible outcome and there are unpleasant surprises and disappointments? Now that you’re in my head, the candy and the wine are starting to look pretty darn appealing, aren’t they?

I am working on not feeling so overwhelmed by life’s difficulties. For starters, I’ve taped a quote by Christian author and speaker Elisabeth Elliot to my bathroom mirror: “Today is mine. Tomorrow is none of my business.”

As you read the stories of the LKN women we honor this month who are battling or have battled breast cancer, you’ll see that Elliot’s assertion is a truth that they already live. Our breast cancer warriors have chosen a path that takes them away from despair and pity, away from anger, and away from bitterness. That doesn’t mean that the paths they chose weren’t fraught with bumps and roadblocks. They often had no idea what to expect around the next bend or over the next hill. But every leap of faith has moments of uncertainty. These courageous women leapt anyway. They understood on a basic level that it is only by exercising their faith that it would become stronger.

We are not in control. Sometimes things just don’t turn out the way we want them to. But we do hold the key to how we react and to choose our paths. Will you be like me and let the path of indecision lead you to Harris Teeter for another super-sized bag of Reese’s Cups? Or will you be like our survivors and put up your dukes and fight?

I promise to give it a try—to let go and have faith. Things may not always turn out the way I want, but I know they will turn out the way God wants.

I wonder, though, who will eat all these Reese’s Cups?

. publisher

-dana

C o n tac t Da n a v i a e- m a i l at da n a @ l a k e n o r m a n wo m a n. c o m

dana nieters

Contents

22

O c to b e r 2 0 1 5

annual pink pages

24

54

julie cash, the cash group

in every issue 50

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5 th i ng s to d o i n O c to b e r

Pink Pages Starting Over

26

Words To Fight By When You Face A Breast Cancer Diagnosis

28

breast cancer survivor: Maggie Fisher

30

breast cancer survivor: Michelle Myers-Croom & Peggy Myers

32

breast cancer survivor: Jennifer Perry

33

breast cancer survivor: Angie Carpenter

34

breast cancer survivor: Sherry Wentzel

36

breast cancer survivor: Deanna Dura

38

breast cancer survivor: Bernice M. Scott

40

We’re Cooking!

42

If Breast Cancer Returns

44

Businesses Helping End Breast Cancer Forever: Five Questions To Ask

12

dr. lindsey mashburn, lakeshore women’s specialists

12

20

danielle ratliff, serenity now massage therapy

{

o n the c over:

jennifer perry

leading the way: Dr. Lindsey Mashburn

20

woman to watch: Danielle Ratliff

54

success story: No Pressure, No Diamonds

52

14 48

ph oto g r a ph y by:

chelsea bren

Features

16 56

Family Camp Out!

Health Smile Enhancement: You’re The Key Coffee Talk

Self Depression Or Just The Blues? mind body spirit: Getting Through Cancer Treatment

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lknw feat u re

Leading The Way As we rise into leadership roles, it’s not always easy to navigate the leadership path. After all, there are as many leadership traits as there are leaders. LKN Woman talks to area leaders in the hope that we can learn from each other’s successes and failures in confronting leadership challenges.

D r . L i n d s e y M a s h b u r n , an obstetrician with Lakeshore Women’s Specialists in Mooresville for the last six years, maintains a consistent leadership style, whether at home or at work. She believes in educating and modeling goals, valuing the hows and whys more than the shoulds and coulds.

“Many people don’t realize how much control we do have over our health,” she says. “Eighty-six percent of disease is estimated to be preventable.” While we all know eating healthy is the right thing to do, it does come with its sacrifices. For Dr. Mashburn, it was giving up pizza; but it’s important for her to note that eating healthy is not something she doesn’t practice herself. At her own home, with her husband, Andrew, and two children, the Mashburns have a hydroponic tower garden, in which they grow tomatoes, okra, peppers, cucumbers, and squash. “Kids are interested in learning,” she explains, “so if we go at it by explaining the science, rather than just barking orders, they can have ownership in these healthy decisions. My son came home from school and told me a girl at the lunch table ‘had five bad things in her lunchbox.’ He said he didn’t tell the girl they were bad (whew!), but I’m glad he is aware of what is healthy.” leadership is ?

“Leadership is motivating and inspiring others to achieve goals or to make positive changes.”

By: Amy Hallman | photography by: chelsea bren

Sometimes change can come simply with the power of suggestion.

One might assume that doctors always tell patients to stop smoking; but when Dr. Mashburn told one patient, in her 50s, to quit smoking, it was the first time this patient had ever been told directly by a physician. And you know what? She quit smoking!

“Health is something so many people take for granted. Women have such potential to be leaders for their families and communities by placing a priority on health,” Dr. In five Mashburn says. “Parents have an opportunity to words only, make the next generation healthier by modeling what is healthy behaviors, preventing sugar addictions, your key to health? making exercise a normal part of everyday life, encouraging each other, and applauding instead of questioning healthy “fruits, veggies, exercise, rest, lifestyle changes.” laughter”

First job: Eckerd

Life as a

Leader

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cashier

Drugs

Best time saver:

grocery shopping

online

At-work comfort snack: yogurt

| october 2015

and Starbucks

Best career advice:

Follow your passion and work hard How her high school teachers would describe her younger self?

modest

Medical School: Medical

Last Internet research:

Mantra: This

If you could make over anything, what would

University of South Carolina at Charleston

is the day that the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it.

power of fruit and veggies in disease prevention

it be? The American

Diet

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health

smile

you’re the Key en

W r i t i n g a n e d i to r i a l is not my thing. In fact, even thinking about putting a finger to keyboard makes me pace nervously back and forth and develop this kind of furrowed-brow, half-frown face while staring off in the distance. Creating something people might actually read is my personal nightmare. But when this opportunity came along to get out of my comfort zone, I actually felt a little excitement replace the dread because this month’s theme relates to something I am extremely passionate about. Let me explain.

As a decorated general in the war against “crooked,” every day I talk to great people about enhancing their smiles. It is awesome. I love it. And while the work is lifechanging and making people healthier, I’m not dealing with life and death on a daily basis like an ER doctor.

Better yet, I never have to

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ha

nceme

: t n

By: Dr. Megan Lineberger

give anyone a shot! In this atmosphere, we are able to have fun while helping our patients. I mean, I’ve never seen a surgeon perform a procedure, clad in full ‘80s gear. But that isn’t to say smile enhancement isn’t serious business.

You have to pay extreme attention to detail when transforming the asset that over half the world’s people say is the most memorable feature upon meeting someone new: your smile.

Most of an orthodontist’s work is done in the treatment planning stages of a patient’s journey. The orthodontist is the quarterback who determines what play is best when. Old-school teeth straightening was done treating neatly trimmed plaster models on a table, not accounting for the person’s facial balance, lip position and muscular activity, smile arc and most importantly, the patient’s perspective of what their enhanced smile should look like. The art of smile design, as we call it in the biz. When the husband and I get together and plan treatment, we plan for the optimal, functional result so your teeth will live long happy lives, free from uneven forces and wear.

To make sure we capture the individual’s ideal smile, we not only go over the

perceptions they have and what they want fixed, but we take a digital scan of their teeth and bite (No impressions: we are a gag-free zone!), and simulate, showing them, the full orthodontic treatment, including a picture of the completed smile enhancement before the first tooth movement ever commences. We ask our patients to be extremely picky, to guide us to what they like about the planned results and what could be slightly altered to achieve their personal perfect smile. When orthodontics is a synergistic two-way conversation, both the science and the art of our profession can fully merge.

We encourage anyone considering a smile enhancement to take an active role in the process. Be sure your concerns are addressed and that you aren’t simply a set of old-school orthodontic plaster models to simply straighten. In today’s world, more and more adults are realizing the importance of a healthy smile; and when it comes to a stunning smile-licious orthodontic result, you’re the key!

In five words only, what is your key to health?

“strive for balance in life.”

Megan Lineberger is an orthodontist and owns Lineberger Orthodontics in Huntersville with her husband—and orthodontist—Matthew Lineberger. For more information on their practice, call 704.892.3300 or visit them online at www.linebergerorthodontics.com

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self

Depression Just the Blues? or

Lori was a happy mother of two

recognizing symptoms

when things began to fall apart—

The National Institute of Mental Health says recognizing the symptoms is key. October is a commemorative month for depression awareness.

her mother had just passed away, her marriage was strained, and her 10-year-old Labrador retriever, Max, was facing his last days.

Understandably, Lori was not in a happy place.

She tried to stay positive and pull herself out of it, but days—which turned into weeks—drifted by and she found herself not wanting to participate in life at all. Just getting out of bed was a chore!

We can all relate to feelings of sadness and bad moods, but how do you know if it’s depression or just the blues? The American Psychological Association states nearly 18.8 million American adults experience depression each year, and women are twice as likely as men to develop major depression.

If you experience at least five of the following symptoms every day for at least two weeks (and these symptoms interfere with your daily activities), you may have major, or clinical, depression*: Sad, anxious, or “empty” mood

Difficulty sleeping or excessive sleeping

Hopeless, pessimistic, worthless, or helpless feelings

Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions

Loss of interest in hobbies and activities Fatigue, or decreased energy

*

Restlessness

Changes in appetite or weight Suicidal thoughts, or recurring thoughts of death Irritability

If you or someone you know might be suffering from depression, contact a licensed mental health care provider. With appropriate therapy and proper medications, even the most severe forms of depression can be successfully treated.

Create a masterpiece, have fun with race cars, dig for fossils or have a tea party at the coolest place in town.

PARTY PACKAGES discoveryplaceKIDS.org | 704.372.6261 x300

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For more information on depression, visit the American Psychological Association at www.apa.org or the National Institute of Mental Health at www.nimh.nih.gov.

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danielle ratliff LKNW recognizes a woman doing exceptional work in the Lake

Norman community, a leader who is paving the way to changing

In five words only, what is your key to health?

“go holistic & find relaxation.”

our attitudes and inspire confidence in the future.

on Getting Here: My father was in the Army, so we moved around a lot when I was young. I lived in Georgia, South Carolina, New York, and Germany, all before age 10. I’ve been in North Carolina since then.

With a bachelor’s degree in public health and nutrition from UNC Chapel Hill, I became a registered dietitian in 2005. By 2011, I decided to become a massage therapist, went back to school, and graduated from the North Carolina School of Massage in Cornelius in 2012. on Why You’re the Key: We are all responsible for ourselves and our happiness, despite what we’ve been through. I was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after I was sexually assaulted. I hit rock bottom before massage school when I attempted suicide and spent a few days in a psychiatric facility. After that, I knew I needed to change my life completely or else I wasn’t going to be around to experience it. That was the impetus to change careers, get counseling, and make my life work for me! I can’t believe how far I’ve come in four years. I still struggle with anxiety occasionally, but it’s manageable; and I’m the happiest I’ve ever been in my life. on Working It: I really cherish my business and my team of 10—we’re like a little “Serenity Now” family and everyone really enjoys their work. I am proud of taking a failing massage business and turning a profit within six months; growing from three therapists to 10 (plus myself) in three years; purchasing the building in January 2015; and continuing to be booked solid!

Danielle Ratliff Serenity now massage Therapy cornelius, nc

on Finding Serenity: My family, friends, clients, and team at Serenity Now inspire and encourage me every day. And my incredible husband— he is my rock! We had only been dating four months when the assault happened, and he stayed by my side each step of the way. We all have to remember that what we do makes a difference in others’ lives. We may not be in control of every situation, but we can control how we react; we make our own realities.

Danielle Ratliff is the owner of Serenity Now Massage Therapy located at 18147 W. Catawba Ave. in Cornelius. For hours and more information, visit www.serenitynowcornelius.com or call 704.465.5527 to make an appointment.

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by: leslie ogle | photography by: lisa crates photography

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a s p e c i a l s e c t i o n i n h o n o r o f b r e a s t c a n c e r awa r e n e s s m o n t h

pink w

the LKN

pages

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Naomi Simon, MD

Board Certified Dermatologist

Scott Paviol, MD

Board Certified Dermatologist

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October

SPECIAL Micro-Fractional Skin Rejuvenation 4 Treatment Package

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pink

pages

over

starting By: Rhonda Lennon

F o r y e a r s, I was obsessed with pretty lacy bras. Walking into the Victoria’s Secret store was like “returning to the mothership.”

Elation washed over me each time I smelled the perfume and took in all the new colors and designs. Any time I needed a pick-me-up or a better mood, wanted to treat myself or even to celebrate—let’s be real: celebrate anything!— I’d buy myself a lacy treat or two…or more… far more than I even had time to wear. With three children, I have been the mom who always put everything for my kids first—until about six years ago, when I discovered the complete joy from bringing home the pinkand-red-bagged treats for myself. And yes, they really were just for myself, which would explain why 75 percent of them were some shade of my favorite color: pink.

In five words only, what is your key to health?

© Picstudio | Dreamstime.com

“stay positive & be proactive.”

In January 2015, I had to tackle “the bra drawer.”

Two months post-doublemastectomy, my little pretties were weaponized with underwires and pushups to battle the gravitational pull. With the new equipment my plastic surgeon would implant, underwires are not recommended. So, I began the sorting.

Some were truly gorgeous treasures.

Some brought back happy memories, and some still had tags (Don’t judge!).

Worn ones were tossed, gently used and NWT were saved for friends and people I love. But first, I sat with them scattered over my bed and wept—for what I had lost and afraid of what my new “normal” would be.

My longtime best friend came from Ohio to help me recover. She did all the things I couldn’t do with limited motion

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and strength in my arms. I asked her to take two of my favorite bras: my most treasured delicate ivory with black lace accents and tiny rhinestones, and the black one with red and gold embroidery.

It made me so happy that she could use them but also a little envious.

Still, there is something therapeutic about sharing my treasures. With each gift, a piece of the sadness left, too, just one step of this breast cancer journey. I finished the distribution with my oldest daughter and her roomie. Cortney got my spectacular mint green set—new with tags!—and a few others. My daughter, Amanda scored many others, including some hot pink, which she promised to wear in my honor.

After four months postreconstruction, I struggled to go back inside the store I loved so much. Some days, I only got as far as the parking lot.

Though pretty much healed, the scars were still there: in my heart and on my chest, visible reminders of the cancer journey I was thrust upon last November 17. But last month, better late than never, I went back to Victoria’s Secret to start a new collection. And Amanda pointed out that I can even wear the little flimsy ones, too!

Right now, I have a mostly empty drawer, but my heart is full. I know, compared to most, I’ve had an easy journey. I am cured. What’s ahead of me is making sure every woman I know gets her annual mammogram, and supporting all my pink warrior sisters still fighting for their lives.

Rhonda Lennon, a breast cancer survivor, is the District 1 School Board representative for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools. She publicly discussed and shared her cancer experience via her Pink Princess Warrior, Rhonda Lennon Facebook page.

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Words to Fight By

When You Face a Breast Cancer Diagnosis

Once you are diagnosed with breast cancer, priorities change, schedules are disrupted, and proper lifestyles take on new urgency.

The Susan G. Komen Foundation recognizes “In the first year after a cancer diagnosis and during the active phase of treatment, it is common to feel depressed and anxious. After all, treatment side effects can worsen your quality of life.” With everything seemingly turned upside down, here are some tips and thoughts on keeping things on track during this difficult time:

Keep Organized

Ask for Help

With or without

insurance, the costs associated with treatment are exorbitant.

You may not be prepared for things like child care, expensive nutritional foods, travel expenses, or other unexpected costs. From your pharmacy to daycare, know that assistance is available.

The United Way or the American Cancer Society can direct you to the appropriate assistance programs.

W i t h a l l t h e specialists and doctors on your team, there is an array of folks receiving your records, but be sure you keep an organized file for yourself and others, such as your family, your trainer, or your nutritionist, for example. Apps such as Track My Medical Records and iBlueButton help you organize, track, and share all your medical files (Both are

available for free at your app store).

Stay Healthy & Active

B e f o r e , d u r i n g , and after treatment, an active and healthy lifestyle is paramount, albeit different with each stage. Some people find that they have an aversion to certain foods post-treatment; others aren’t up to their previous exercise regimen. Talk to nutritionists and other health experts to create a plan that’s right for you.

Maintain

Communication

H av i n g o p e n and honest conversations with your family, friends, and work colleagues behooves everyone. People may be confused about how to act or what to expect. Remember, you are the key when it comes to handling the issues surrounding your situation, so be clear, concise, and cooperative; and others will follow suit.

For more information on daily breast cancer matters, visit www.breastcancer.org or www.komen.org.

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• Institute for Luxury Home Marketing • Lake Norman Chamber Member • CRS - Certified Residential Specialist • ASP - Accredited Staging Professional • SPS - Strategic Pricing Specialist • SFR - Short Sale Foreclosure Resource • CDPE - Certified Distressed Property Expert • ABR - Accredited Buyer Representative

pink

pages

Fisher

maggie

D

“

on’t be sorry—it’s the best thing that ever happened to me.” That’s what Maggie Fisher tells folks who say they’re sorry to hear that she is battling breast cancer.

In five words only, what is your key to health?

“repeat: i’m happy. i’m healthy.”

“I’ll admit, I didn’t feel that way at first,” she explains. “Your heart sinks. Your mind goes numb. I remember sitting in my nurse navigator’s office and thinking to myself, ‘I can’t have cancer—my daughter is graduating from college in three days.’ But that’s the thing about cancer: it doesn’t care.”

After discovering that Internet research only caused her to “work herself into a tizzy,” Maggie decided to lean on the medical professionals who were there to help her. To get her through her fears and more than a couple sleepless nights, she relied heavily on her nurse navigator with her constant reassurance, facts, resources and most importantly, compassion.

Maggie endured six rounds of chemotherapy, surgery, radiation, and a year’s worth of Herceptin. She says it was the most difficult and yet the best time of her life. For one, she gained a new appreciation for family, especially her husband of 28 years: “I fell even more in love with him during this time,” she says. “He was with me every moment, holding me as I sobbed and eventually laughing with me as the inevitable funny things happened along the way.”

I Am A Warrior

New friends were a blessing, as well. Just after Maggie completed chemo and before her surgery, she attended a free, weekend-long Wind River Cancer Wellness retreat in Tryon, North Carolina. It was a turning point for Maggie: “Imagine the freedom of being able to say exactly what was on my mind without the worry of scaring someone or making them sad. It was incredible! I let go of my fears and embraced the gift of my cancer. I emerged from that weekend full of gratitude for the gifts that God had given me.”

Cancer has changed Maggie, that’s for sure. She’s embracing honesty in a way she never did before, for after all, as she explains, “Life is too short to go around pretending things are one way, when they’re, in fact, not that way at all.” She’s eating healthier, exercising more, and staying focused on the future: “I still have so much to do, and now’s my chance!”

Maggie encourages others battling breast cancer to do the same. “Attend those health system workshops and seminars,” she advises. “Talk to other survivors, reach out to family and friends, and never be afraid to accept offers of help. But most of all, show yourself and those around you that you can be positive, strong, and gracious even when it’s most difficult. Claim your life, and make the most of your second chance!”

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Wanda’s Story

BREAST CANCER SURVIVOR

Patient of Carolina Vein Associates

My husband and I both decided to take early retirement and relax and travel! We were so happy and had been “living the dream” for almost two years when I found a small lump in my right breast.

I have always had a very compliant personality and had just had my mammogram and ultrasound six months earlier and had continued to do monthly breast checks. I knew that early detection is the key to treating breast cancer. I immediately called and was scheduled for a diagnostic mammogram, ultrasound and biopsy.

I was diagnosed with stage 1 triple negative invasive ductal carcinoma breast cancer. I had a double mastectomy which revealed no lymph node involvement and no other tumors except for the 1.4 cm tumor that I found doing my monthly checks.

I then completed four rounds of chemotherapy and breast reconstruction.

I am Wanda Lockridge and this picture was taken of me at the top of the St. Augustine Lighthouse only twelve hours before my life as I knew it would change forever.

PAID ADVERTISEMENT

I am now six months out from completing chemotherapy and my tumor markers are all within normal limits and my scans do not show any signs of cancer in my body! Ladies, please get your mammograms and always follow up with monthly self breast exams! YOU are your best breast advocate and may save your own life!

There is no target drug for triple negative breast cancer so there is no “pill” my oncologist can put

CarolinaVeinAssociates.com me on to prevent recurrence. I see my oncologist every three months for a complete exam, blood work and body scans as ordered. It is of utmost importance that I stay “in tune” with my body and report any and all symptoms of possible recurrence.

I will be seen every three months for two to three years and then every six months before being released to yearly. Early detection of triple negative breast cancer as with any cancer cannot be stressed enough.

Breast cancer has made me an even more positive person and I have a much closer relationship with God and have learned to let faith replace any fear! I immediately started a blog in hopes of helping others. It is “Living positively with triple negative breast cancer” and can be seen at alwayslookforthebrightside.blogspot.com. It’s my way of “giving back” or women helping women!

we support breast cancer awareness Dr. Steve Folstad Dr. Todd Hansen

206 Joe Knox Ave., Suite H Mooresville, NC 28117

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ichelle Myers-Croom was diagnosed with a rare form of breast cancer at the age of 43. Because Michelle performed monthly breast selfexams and had yearly mammograms, she was surprised to discover a lump in her right breast while visiting family in Florida for the holidays.

e: In five words only, what is your key to health?

“laughter treats whatever ails you.”

Upon returning home, she had an ultrasound, then a biopsy. With no family history, Michelle was shocked when she heard the words, “You have stage one in situ ductal papillary carcinoma.”

Michelle had lumpectomy surgery in January 2008, and a second surgery a few weeks later.

Because the pathology report showed that the margins were not clear of cancer, Michelle also had to undergo six weeks of daily radiation and then five years of Tamoxifen. She continued to work every day, as an executive assistant for a NASCAR Cup driver; it was very important to Michelle that her daily life continue much as usual. Still, it was tough: “My faith, family, friends, medical team, and positive attitude assisted me through,” she says.

Even though Michelle’s oncologist continues to monitor her blood work and closely manages her remission, she has been breast-cancer free for more than six years.

Until last year, she thought she had left breast cancer behind.

Neither Michelle nor Peggy ever asked the “Why me?” question.

Michelle gives all the credit for that to her mom: “My mom is one of the strongest women I know. She continues to spread sunshine and inspiration to others on a daily basis!”

Both Michelle and Peggy were tested for the BRCA gene, as they wanted to be able to provide as much information as possible to Peggy’s granddaughters about their genetic risks. The test was negative, which gave them both much relief and confidence that others in their family had a much less chance of being diagnosed with breast cancer.

Michelle and Peggy both offer support to others battling breast cancer, hoping they can provide comfort and inspiration as fellow survivors. “The best advice we can give,” Michelle says, “is to never allow a diagnosis to define who you are or what you want to do with your life. And never, ever give up, no matter what the diagnosis!”

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I Hope, I Fight, I Will Win

y:

Keep

th i a F The

pegg

“Then the unthinkable happened,” Michelle recalls. In 2013, Michelle’s mother, Peggy, felt a lump in her left breast. In November, she was diagnosed with an aggressive breast cancer even more serious than Michelle’s had been.

Peggy’s treatment required months of very aggressive chemo that made her so ill she found herself battling for her life in a 10-day hospital stay.

The chemo was followed by a surgery to remove the tumors, six weeks of radiation, and another year of chemo. The port used for her treatments was only just removed this past August.

In five words only, what is your key to health?

“Faith, determination, positivity, strength, humor”

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Perry

Jennifer

In five words only, what is your key to health?

“Positive Attitude, Mindfulness, Real Food”

J

ennifer Perry was glad to see 2008 go. On Thanksgiving in 2007, she discovered a lump in her breast. She had a New Year’s Eve mammogram, and then rung in the New Year with surgery. Chemotherapy consumed her spring; radiation, her fall. She was 34 years old.

On April 19, 2015, she was diagnosed with breast cancer—again. Jennifer knew something was wrong when her mammogram technician asked for additional images. “I’ve been through this before,” Jennifer explains. “The tears started falling.” A subsequent ultrasound revealed a spot about a centimeter in diameter. Before the biopsy came back, Jennifer says, “My husband, Dane, and I knew the results. We made the decision to do a double mastectomy and reconstruction. Although I really like my own boobs, I just can’t handle the idea of them growing more cancer!”

With the surgery scheduled for late May, Dane made arrangements for Jennifer to enjoy every moment leading up to it, starting with a very special Mother’s Day. But at first, Jennifer wasn’t sure. “Dane said he’d set up an early Mother’s Day breakfast for our family and our moms, and to be ready at 8 a.m.,” Jennifer recalls. “I grumbled all morning, getting ready. I didn’t even know that there was an 8 a.m. on Sunday!” But her displeasure was short lived. The early breakfast was a ruse; the real surprise was a trip to Ballantyne Spa with her mom and a number of friends.

The spa day was a nice diversion, but Jennifer and Dane still had to make some important decisions. With Jennifer’s surgeon, they discussed various options for post-surgical treatment and the risks for recurrence, which, of course, are stressful, for them both. Jennifer, seeing that her husband was struggling a bit, decided to bring some levity into the situation by ordering him a set of breast-like stress relief “balls.” “We are both slightly ashamed of ourselves,” Dane admits. “It’s a strange world when sitting back, you realize you’re playing toss in the living room with your eight-year-old son with a rubber boobie!”

Jennifer and Dane’s ability to apply humor for relief didn’t stop there. At an early May surprise barbecue at a friend’s house in Jennifer’s honor, everyone brought bras. After dinner, Dane announced that they were going to burn all the bras in a giant bonfire! But first, the friends relayed their heartfelt good wishes to Jennifer as they threw in the bras. “It was such an amazing surprise.

I felt so honored,” Jennifer says. “I felt so lucky to have such wonderful friends in my life.”

Facing chemotherapy and already knowing the toll it can have on your state of mind, Jennifer once again followed her heart rather than her fear: she ordered a pink wig. The organization The Pink Wig, started by a breast cancer survivor, ships free pink wigs to any breast cancer survivor who requests one. “Why not?” Jennifer laughs. “Attitude is everything. I know it’s scary, but the advancements and treatment options have come a long way, even in the last 10 years. Take a deep breath, and do your best to maintain a positive outlook.”

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this t s a p get i will

In five words only, what is your key to health?

Carpenter

angie

“faith. friends. family. forgiveness. fitness.”

ts no regre

A

fter finding a lump in her breast, Angie Carpenter received her breast cancer diagnosis on November 14, 2005, just two months after moving from Tennessee to North Carolina. She was only 32 years old with no family history of breast cancer.

Angie remembers not only the exact time (9:05 a.m.) the radiologist gave her the news, but everything else about that life-changing moment: “I remember what I was wearing, where I was standing, and even asking for the radiologist to repeat what she had just told me,” Angie recalls. When the doctor replied, “Angie, it’s cancer,” Angie had about five minutes of raw anxiety.

“But, by minute six,” she asserts, “I signed up to fight! I was determined to put everything I had, and then some, into my pink boxing gloves. I knew it wouldn’t be a walk in the park, but I was up for the battle ahead.”

Additional tests indicated Angie had an aggressive type of HER2/neu positive estrogen-fed cancer. Listening to the advice of a good friend, she decided to concentrate on two things: her attitude and her medical care. She did due diligence in selecting her medical team and then trusted them completely. And she looked hard for a silver lining. “My attitude stayed strong, my medical team became my extended family, my friends and family rallied around me, and my faith grew immeasurably,” she recalls. “Breast cancer blessed me. I stepped into a renewed relationship with God. I had the opportunity to renew my relationship with my dad. And I felt blessed that my treatment was allowing me to literally reboot my system!”

Less than a month after being diagnosed, Angie underwent a lumpectomy and a lymph node dissection; and later in December, she went through a bilateral mastectomy with reconstruction. Even though her cancer was stage 1 and there was no lymph node involvement, she elected to take four rounds of chemotherapy and nine rounds of Herceptin to further reduce the chances of recurrence. “Giving the chemo permission to do its job enabled me to befriend it,” Angie says. “It’s hard to give chemo a bad name when it’s your artillery for battle.”

When asked about her breast cancer experience, Angie simply affirms that she has no regrets. “I’m not wired to give up,” she stresses. “I chose to get up and fight, and I’m so glad I did. It’s my hope and prayer that when others read this, they’ll want to do the same.”

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pink

pages

In five words only, what is your key to health?

Wentzel

sherry

“don’t sweat the small stuff!”

P

ine Lake Preparatory second grade teacher Sherry Wentzel received her breast cancer diagnosis the day after Christmas in 2013. The news, though never welcome, was particularly scary: Sherry had a very aggressive form of infiltrating ductal carcinoma stage 3 breast cancer. Additionally, Sherry’s cancer was triple negative, meaning it was not estrogen driven, as most types of breast cancer are.

This diagnosis required Sherry’s treatment plan to be harsher than that of most people diagnosed with breast cancer: she would have to undergo intense sessions of chemotherapy for 20 weeks, a double mastectomy, and a hysterectomy.

Facing that treatment regimen was daunting for Sherry, to say the least. To deal with the anxiety, Sherry did what is difficult for so many women: she learned to let go. First, she renewed her faith in God. “I realized I couldn’t get through this on my own. Giving it to God changed my life. I became totally at peace with God’s plan for me,” she says. She also let go by learning to trust and believe in her circle of medical caregivers. And finally, she learned to relinquish the role of caretaker and let her husband, Nick, her family, her friends, and her students, both past and present, take care of her for a change.

iving, v r u S t s u Not J g

Sherry also turned to strangers, though the nurse navigators and her co-survivors didn’t remain strangers for long. Sherry’s nurse navigator was her lifeline when Sherry felt blindsided by her diagnosis.

“I couldn’t think straight,” Sherry says. “Debra helped me determine the resources available to me for things like wigs and mastectomy options, but she also gave mental support and friendship.” But at times, Sherry still felt alone, especially given the fact that only 15 percent of the breast cancer population is triple negative. She found both comfort and camaraderie at the Triple Negative Breast Cancer group of Charlotte. “It was wonderful to talk to someone so knowledgeable about the kind of cancer I had,” recalls Sherry. “I finally felt like someone knew what I was going through!”

Thrivin

After her chemo treatment and double mastectomy, Sherry finally received good news: a “complete response,” which meant that the doctors could find no evidence of cancer. This is great news for a cancer patient, as it indicates that there is much less chance for a recurrence.

What’s life like after cancer? For Sherry, it’s been about slowing down and taking a breath. “I always thought the cliché ‘Stop and smell the roses’ was outdated; but now I live it!” And while “that darn cancer,” as Sherry calls it, kept her from celebrating her 25th wedding anniversary as planned last September, it didn’t stop her for long: “I’m happy to report we just returned from an Alaskan cruise where we celebrated two things: our anniversary and beating cancer!”

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In five words only, what is your key to health?

“balance in body, mind, spirit.”

Dura

deanna

D

eanna Dura’s son had just turned a year old when she had her routine mammogram. She was not surprised to hear, “Everything looks great.

See you next year!” After all, she had just had a baby.

A few weeks later, though, Deanna felt a lump in her breast, but she assumed it was part of post-nursing hormonal shifts. When three weeks passed and the lump was still there, she went to see her physician, who suggested another mammogram. After another screening and an ultrasound, the radiologist performed a biopsy, just to be sure.

When the call came with the news that it was cancer, Deanna was stunned. “I couldn’t breathe,” she explains. “It was so surreal. I thought ‘I’m too young for this! I have no family history of breast cancer!’ Then the unthinkable came into my head: ‘My son is going to grow up without me.’ It was a devastating thought, and all of a sudden, the surreal felt horribly real.”

The next two weeks involved a surgery to install her chemotherapy port and numerous doctor appointments. “I was terrified,

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no one fights alone depressed, angry, and full of self-pity, all at once,” Deanna says. “It was all so overwhelming.”

But in the midst of Deanna’s storm, she found herself surrounded by love. Her husband, Jason, was a pillar of support, and with each round of chemo, Deanna’s family also rallied behind her. But the love didn’t stop there. “I literally had a ‘village’ of people behind me every step of the way,” she says. “Family and close friends, of course, but also old friends, friends of friends, old neighbors, new neighbors, former coworkers, strangers, friends of strangers— you name it! I had no idea how compassionate and caring people can be.” Deanna also bonded with other patients and survivors, who provided muchneeded emotional support, gave her hope, and lent a new perspective to her situation.

“I don’t remember when it actually happened,” notes Deanna, “but I began to see that my cancer wasn’t the curse I thought it to be. It wasn’t overnight, but my perspective began to shift, and I suddenly felt like the luckiest person in the world.”

It’s now been one year since Deanna’s diagnosis.

And while she’s getting back to her life, she also understands that nothing is, or ever will be, the same.

“Cancer has changed me. I see things through a different lens now. I’m a cancer survivor, but that’s not enough. I don’t want to just survive; I want to live!”

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M. Scott

bernice

In five words only, what is your key to health?

“be respectful & love life”

F

or it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God: Ephesians 2:8

That Bible verse is very important to Bernice Scott, or “Miss Bee,” as she is affectionately known in the Lake Norman community. After all, she lives her life much according to its meaning. Cancer-free for two years now, she credits God for her survival, and she spends much of her time paying that divine gift forward.

“I can only hope that I will be able to continue sharing His love for many years to come,” she says.

strong beautiful brave

Until 2011, Miss Bee served as a volunteer with the chaplain program for local nursing homes organized by The Cove Church. She relished her work at the nursing homes, finding meaning and purpose in helping others feel closer to God. When The Cove closed the program, Miss Bee wasn’t sure what she would do with herself. But a new door opened for her soon after, this time as a volunteer for the Mooresville-South Iredell Chamber of Commerce. She became an ambassador for the chamber, visiting new businesses at ribbon cuttings and networking at beforeand after-hours chamber-sponsored events. Also, Miss Bee served as the volunteer coordinator for the Mooresville Police Department’s National Night Out Against Crime and Drug Abuse, served on the Welcome Home Veterans committee for the Mooresville Veterans Day Parade, and resumed her chaplaincy visits, this time at Lake Norman Regional Medical Center.

So life was busy, but good, for Miss Bee. Then in October 2013, her annual mammogram screening detected cancer in her left breast, requiring surgery and radiation treatments. Her sister, Laurie, came from Florida to help her recover and get through the radiation, which she had Monday through Friday for two months.

During this time, Miss Bee was amazed by the people who rallied around her to provide help and comfort: “I had the support of many, from the business community, which sent me cards of encouragement, to the police officers, who volunteered to help with daily tasks, such as give me rides, do my shopping, and take me to medical visits,” she says.

It is because of this outpouring of support that Miss Bee feels the need to give even more back: “Today, by the blessings and grace of God, I am cancer free,” she says. “I will continue to provide mentoring and solace to those who seek, and I look forward to continuing my many volunteer activities!”

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we’re

Cooking!

Provided by: Dr. Serena Murray

is a spin on an Italian favorite. Cruciferous vegetables, such as collard greens, along with garlic and tomatoes, contain phytonutrients, which fight cancer growth. Beans are high in essential vitamins and minerals.

Olive and flax seed oils are healthy fats that add a nutty flavor to the dish. Cumin and oregano, both high in antioxidants, are optional additions to contribute a warm, earthy flavor.

T h i s e a s y, s av o r y r e c i p e *

Beans and Greens with an Anti-Cancer Twist Serves: 2

ingredients

4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 3 garlic cloves, minced 1 large bunch fresh collards, roughly chopped or cut into strips 1 cup vegetable broth 1 15-ounce can of white beans (Great Northern or cannellini) 1 large tomato, quartered 1 to 2 tablespoons flax seed oil Salt and pepper, to taste 1 teaspoon cumin (optional) 1 tablespoon freshly chopped or Dried oregano (optional)

*Editor’s Note: We were so excited about including this recipe that we just knew our advertising account executive, Sandy Comer, could whip it up and take a tantalizing photo! Sandy said it took her about 15 minutes from start to finish, too.

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directions

In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle extra virgin olive oil and add garlic and tomatoes. Cook until garlic begins to turn golden and tomatoes begin to soften, about 3 minutes. Add collards, broth, and beans, stirring to mix.

Let simmer until greens are tender and beans are heated through, about 5 -10 minutes. Add cumin and oregano, if desired. Season with salt and pepper; drizzle with flax seed oil before serving.

Dr. Serena Murray is a chiropractor and nutritionist at Advanced Spinal Fitness, 111 Kilson Dr., Ste. 104, Mooresville, a state-of-the-art spinal correction and performance-enhancement center. For more information, call 704.663.5142, or visit www.advancedspinalfitness.net.

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if breast cancer returns

Provided by the Susan G. Komen Foundation

M a n y w o m e n s ay facing cancer the first time was one of the hardest things

they have ever had to do. There were many new things to learn and many tests to go through. Breast cancer can recur at the original site (called recurrence or local recurrence). It can also spread to other parts of the body (called metastatis or distant recurrence). When breast cancer returns, a woman may know what to expect. But, that does not mean it is any easier.

Women who have a recurrence of breast cancer often feel angry and afraid. It does not seem fair that a disease they fought so hard to get rid of would come back. Some women even second-guess the treatment choices they made. They may wonder if they have the strength to go through it all again. If you have had these thoughts, you are not alone. But, you must believe that you made the right decisions. There is likely nothing more you could have done. It may be helpful to find a support group for women who have had a recurrence of breast cancer.

Never give up hope. You and your doctor will make a plan to treat your cancer. While it may be hard at first, continue to live your life as you want. Find the energy to do things that make you happy. Talk to others about how they can help you live well each day.

A new treatment plan

© Lopolo | Dreamstime.com

Resources Susan G. Komen

1.877.GO KOMEN (1.877.465.6636) www. komen.org

American Cancer Society 1.800 ACS.2345 www.cancer.org

Learn as much as you can.

Pick your medical team.

Find out as much as you can about where your breast cancer has recurred. The location and characteristics of the tumor may be different from your original breast cancer. Learning about your cancer will help you consider your treatment options.

You may want to use the same medical team you had before. Or you may want to ask different doctors to join your team. Even if your medical team is the same as before, get a second opinion.

Other doctors may see things another way and can provide you with different information.

Don’t face this alone.

Choose your treatment goal.

These are difficult, emotional choices to face. A patient advocate or co-survivor (friend or family) is someone who will support you and help you weigh your options. Ask them to help take notes for doctor appointments, gather medical records, and make sure you understand your treatment options. You do not have to face this alone.

If metastasis is present, tests are done to see which organs are involved and the characteristics of the tumor. Talk to your doctor about treatment goals and options.

Second primary tumor—a second primary breast tumor is not considered a recurrence. It is different

from the original cancer in its location and possibly in its characteristics.

National Cancer Institute

. . .

1.800.4 CANCER www.cancer.gov

The above list of resources is only a suggested resource and is not a complete listing of breast cancer materials or information.

The information contained herein is not meant to be used for self-diagnosis or to replace the services of a medical professional.

Komen does not endorse, recommend, or make any warranties or representations regarding this accuracy, completeness, timeliness, quality, or noninfringement of any of the materials, products, or information provided by the organizations referenced herein.

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The location and extent of the recurrence will affect your treatment goals. If you have a local recurrence, your treatment will aim to get rid of the cancer with some combination of surgery, radiation (if it was not part of initial treatment), chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and hormone therapy.

Facts about recurrence

Many recurrences are limited to the breast and can be removed by surgery.

Local recurrence is usually found during a mammogram or through physical exam.

© Filizwatch Dreamstime.com

Metastasis is usually found when symptoms are reported during followup office visits.

For more information, visit www.komen.org or call Susan G Komen’s breast care helpline at 1.877 GO KOMEN (1.877.465.6636) Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET. The Running Ribbon is a registered trademark of Susan G. Komen. copyright 2014 Susan G. Komen Item No. KOMEED008400 4/14

Your cancer is less likely to recur if: You had no or few cancerous lymph nodes found during surgery.

Your breast cancer was found early and was small.

You had adjuvant therapy (chemotherapy and/or hormone therapy) along with surgery.

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Businesses Helping End Breast Cancer Forever:

Five Questions To Ask Provided by the Susan G. Komen Foundation

F r o m Am e r i c a n A i r l i n e s to Yo p l a i t, our corporate partners offer consumers a variety of ways to get involved in the fight against breast cancer. Whether a program offers to donate a portion of product sales or requires consumer participation in exchange for a donation, our objective is that all programs that benefit us are meaningful, educate women and men about the disease, and generate significant funds for research and community outreach.

With so many cause-related marketing programs out there, how can you be sure your money is going where it should? In order to determine if a cause-related program or promotion is one that you would like to support (or is worthy of your support), it is important to ask a few key questions. Become a savvy consumer. Review our five questions to ask and learn how to identify cause marketing programs you can feel good about.

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1

Is this company committed?

Read the product packaging and promotional materials or display, and visit the company website to make sure the company is credible and committed to the cause.

2

How is the program structured?

Transparency is key. Is the company clearly stating how the money is raised and how much will be going to charity? For example, if it’s a donation per purchase, ask how much of the purchase price goes to charity. Is it two percent or 10 percent or some other amount? If there is a minimum contribution guaranteed by the company, what is the amount? Is there a maximum donation that will be made by the company?

3

Whom does the program benefit?

Does it support a well-managed, reputable nonprofit or fund?

Again, we recommend the consumers read websites. We make it very clear on our site who we are, how we structure programs, and how the monies are used. The Better Business Bureau Wise Giving Alliance is one resource for information on nonprofit organizations if you are unsure (visit www.give.org).

4

How will the organization that benefits use my money?

It should be abundantly clear where the monies go. What organization will they support? Will the dollars generated go to research, education, community programs, or all the above?

We are very specific about our programs, activities, and grants awarded to support our mission to eradicate breast cancer as a life-threatening disease.

5

Is the program meaningful to me?

Is the program supporting a cause you believe in or have been touched by? Based on the details of the program and the potential for dollars to be raised, does the program make sense to you?

Selecting the right program is a personal choice based on your interests, your passions, and a cause that is important to you.

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health

Studies have shown that high coffee consumption is associated with

decreased risk of

© Zzjazz | Dreamstime.com

coffee talk

cirrhosis and

For women, coffee may

lower

the risk of

liver cancer.

stroke.

According to WebMD, in a study of about 130,000 Kaiser Permanente health plan members, “People who reported drinking 1-3 cups of coffee per day were 20 percent less likely to be hospitalized for abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias) than nondrinkers, regardless of other risk factors.”

New research suggests

Arabians were the first to cultivate and trade coffee. The drink became known as the “Wine of Araby” and was eventually introduced to Europe in the 17th century. It wasn’t long before coffee gained immense popularity. Coffeehouses also made an early debut in history. Much like today, people gathered in what they dubbed “Schools of the Wise” to listen to music, watch performers, play chess, and discuss current events. From the beginning, coffee was studied for its medicinal value, and that research continues today. Here are some facts to consider over your next cup of joe!

A c c o r d i n g to h i s to r y b o o k s ,

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A 20-year Finnish and Swedish study of 1,400 people shows, “those who reported drinking

3-5 cups

of coffee daily were

65% less likely to develop dementia and Alzheimer’s.”

that drinking coffee

reduces overall breast cancer

risk by about

20

%

when age is factored in.

For more information on the health benefits of coffee, visit the WebMD website at www.Webmd.com.

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calendar 5 Things An LKN

o m a n S h o u l d D o I n O c to b e r

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Fridays, Saturdays, & Sundays, Now-Nov. 1:

Amazing Maize Maze Rural Hill, 4431 Neck Rd., Huntersville

2

Saturday, Oct. 3:

15th Annual AllAmerican Dog Show Bailey Road Park, 11536 Bailey Rd., Cornelius 4-7 p.m.

Bring your dog, whether or not you enter it in a contest. Meet local vendors and socialize with some of the area’s best dogs and their owners! The dog show includes 12 contests, with at least one that would befit your prize-worthy pooch.

It’s that time again! Whether or not you’ve ever tried a maize maze, this 7-acre puzzle will keep you coming back year after year! Challenge a friend, go for some inter-office teambuilding, or enjoy a nighttime exploration with the family. Check www.ruralhill.net/amazingmaizemaze.asp for times and details.

4

3

Friday-Sunday, Oct. 16-18: courtesy of Carolina Renaissance Festival

Carolina Renaissance Festival 16445 Poplar Tent Rd., Huntersville 10- a.m.-5:30 p.m.

Enjoy a day on this 20-acre theme park that transports you back to the 16th century. There’s plenty to see and do (and taste and smell!) with entertainment, arts and crafts marketplace, feasting, theater, exhibits, jousting, and more.

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Bring your chairs and blankets (sorry, no pets or coolers) to the second oldest hot air balloon festival in the U.S. With everything from “Eat Street” to a 5K, you can find activities and interests for the whole family.

© Kharkovalex | Dreamstime.com

Saturdays & Sundays, Oct. 3-Nov. 22:

Carolina Balloon Festival Statesville Regional Airport, 260 Hangar Dr., Statesville Friday: 3-8:30 p.m., Saturday: 7 a.m.-8:30 p.m., Sunday: 7 a.m.-6 p.m.

Sunday, Oct. 18:

Southern Flair Bridal Affair The Charles Mack Citizen Center, 215 N. Main St., Mooresville Noon-3 p.m.

If you are a bride-to-be (or you know someone who is) this event is a must-see; reputable vendors will be available to talk with you about all aspects of your big day.

One preregistered bride will even win the CMC venue for her wedding! © Skarau | Dreamstime.com

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family

Camp

out!

Fa l l i s a b e a u t i f u l t i m e

to take the family camping—and whether by the seashore or in the mountains, we have the state to accommodate!

Active.com names Looking Glass Rock one of the top 10 great camping areas for climbers, and Cape Hatteras KOA as a top beach campground, both right here in North Carolina. So grab the tent and the s’mores and get back to nature, remembering these camping tips:

of year

For items that don’t need to be kept cold, use plastic storage bins, not aluminum, glass, nor cardboard boxes. For your cooler, blocks, instead of bags, of ice last longer! If the campsite doesn’t provide food storage containers, keep food and all cooking gear in the trunk of your car. It will keep the critters out of your camp!

© Ludmilafoto | Dreamstime.com

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© Andreusk | Dreamstime.com

Food safety

Eat it up!

It is a good idea to freeze foods before the trip and then load them into the cooler before you hit the road. You can even scramble eggs and mix pancake batter ahead of time. Just freeze in Ziploc bags and thaw and pour into frying pan on site. © Herreid | Dreamstime.com

Stay dry Keep all clothing in backpacks or plastic bins.

Regardless of weather, the outdoors is damp at night.

Also, unzip and hang out your sleeping bags during the day to ventilate and dry them; they inevitably get damp nightly—even in the confines of your tent. © Macsim | Dreamstime.com

© Jekurantodistaja | Dreamstime.com

Respect Mother Nature

Don’t leave food, trash, or cigarette butts at your campsite—not even in the fire pit. Wash anything at least 200 feet away from water sources; and avoid using soap or shampoo at all. Bury human waste in about 6 inches—and 200 feet from the water source.

Take toilet paper and feminine hygiene products (even biodegradable ones) to a trash can.

For area campsite information, visit North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation at www.ncparks.gov.

i n

t h e

c a r d s

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With experience in executive marketing, Julie’s clients included large companies such as, Kimberly Clark and Tyson Foods. One of her most interesting and creative jobs, she explains, was as account director leading a team to execute full-service marketing plans for a national pharmaceutical company. However, real estate was always in the back of her mind.

“I began forming a plan in 2006,” Julie says, “with a firm belief that there were a lot of agents out there but few who really understood or applied the basic principles of marketing.”

After a corporate layoff in 2009, Julie dove headfirst and full-time into real estate. She took the same work ethic, communications, and marketing skills she used in business and moved toward the goal of delivering a different kind of experience to her realty customers. Despite the trying economy and sluggish real estate market, Julie held firm to her philosophy: There is only one place to go, and that is up.

And up she went! Not only was her professional world on the upswing, her personal life yielded its own diamond. In 2012, Julie married the love of her life, Scott; they combined their families into a modern-day Brady Bunch, with five children between them, and moved to Mooresville. Julie transitioned her WinstonSalem real estate business into The Cash Group, and her dreams of entrepreneurship were realized. “We have a rock-star group of talented people,” Julie smiles, “and I am so honored to work with each and every one of them.”

Julie Cash the cash group mooresville, nc

No Pressure, No Diamonds By: Leslie Ogle | photography by: chelsea bren

R e a lto r J u l i e C a s h , owner of The Cash Group in Mooresville, understands that

we don’t reap the rewards if we don’t stand strong under the pressure. Having real estate and entrepreneurship in her blood, Julie has learned from the pressures in life, discovering that she is the key to create diamonds in her world.

Born and raised in Winston-Salem, Julie graduated from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Her parents were school teachers and real estate investors, managing several properties throughout the Triad area.

“Some of my most treasured memories are with my family painting rental properties as a child,” Julie says. “My parents always guided me into what they believed was a more traditional and ‘safe’ career with salary and benefits. Little did they know I was an entrepreneur at heart.”

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In five words only, what is your key to health?

“staying active & loving myself.”

When Julie is not closing a sale or showing a property, you can find her enjoying family and life on the lake. Fueling her passion for real estate, Julie admits that Lake Norman is the perfect place to work and live. “This is the resort lake life that makes our area so popular,” she says. “And I love the people!”

The Cash Group is moving into The Hatler House, on the corner of Brawley School and Chuckwood roads, allowing space to entertain clients and host regular community events.

Julie also has a passion for education and her community at large. Although her two daughters are grown, Julie is committed to supporting local schools, recently sponsoring the Woodland Heights Spring Fling fundraiser.

“I want to give back in many ways,” she says, “starting by building a valuable service that sets my business apart. I don’t aspire to be the biggest, just the best. I am passionate about doing what’s best for our clients.”

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better me

…

better you

…

better world

Mind Body Spirit The mind, body, and spirit are intimately connected. Because unhealthy thoughts and emotions can create a vicious cycle that leads to unhealthy physical patterns, we can choose a victorious path that includes a positive, healing, uplifting spiral. By mixing the ingredients of attitude and action, we can change the flavor of our own lives. Learn to nurture your body and soul to lead a more balanced life.

In five words only, what is your key to health?

“Enjoy food, drink, and positivity!”

getting through cancer W i t h my c h i l d r e n g r o w n ,

I happily spend lots of time with my two beautiful grandsons. I teach piano lessons, which are often as enjoyable as a hobby.

With a solid marriage, my husband, Wayne, and I enjoy our empty nest.

But the words “You have stage 3 ovarian cancer” changed my world forever.

According to my oncologist, Janelle Fauci, MD, in ten days I’d have surgery and a month later, six cycles of chemotherapy. She was very reassuring, and though stunned, I knew I was in good hands. By surgery, I was no longer living in constant, unremitting terror, although there were moments I felt so frightened that I couldn’t breathe or move.

Fortunately, my surgery was very successful.

But battling cancer is one of the hardest things anyone may endure. My hope is someone else may learn from my experience.

Accept help.

You’ll be able to tell which people are sincerely offering and which say it just to be nice. Wayne always comforted me, and I clung to him, literally and figuratively.

If someone offers to bring you dinner, let them. Friends brought meals and visited—a highlight in my day. Ask for prayers and positive thoughts. It meant a lot to know people were praying and thinking of me.

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Keep going.

Chemo was difficult. Wayne could work remotely from my room, where I snoozed as lifesaving drugs entered my system. I never allowed myself to think of the chemo as poison. Though it wore me out, took most of my hair, and gave me chemo-brain, I could continue many activities. I love yoga because it makes me feel strong and beautiful, so I took classes when I could.

Also, I planned little outings, like going to IKEA (even though I cried in the store), having lunch or coffee with a friend, and doing weekend outings with Wayne, even when I didn’t feel well. Sometimes we’d go for lunch after chemo at Price’s Chicken Coop in Charlotte.

Be positive but honest.

Maintain an upbeat attitude. Be sad or angry only when you need to be, but don’t stay in that dark place. Set a timer and pull yourself together when it sounds. In my dark moments, I talked with Debbie Smith, a social worker with the Buddy Kemp Cancer Center, Wayne, and my friends, Sara and Mary Claire. They never said, “Oh, don’t think that,” but let me vent. Also, I started a blog and found purpose in sharing my experience and comforting other women.

treatment By: Linda Gebelein

Distract yourself.

Waiting to start chemo was difficult; I distracted myself by watching movies, old television shows, playing games on my iPad, and scrolling Facebook. I always felt better after something funny or uplifting. Enjoy good books and movies. Exercise, even just a walk around the block. Do what you can, then rest.

Seek others.

Take advantage of resources, such as Look Good, Feel Better. Join a support group.

Even if you’re not much of a joiner, like me, you can find a Facebook group for your disease. I couldn’t find a more caring group of fellow survivors than with our Facebook group. A few friends pulled away from me, which hurt greatly. But I gained new friends and learned how wonderful people can be.

I’ve reconnected with friends from thirty years ago. My marriage is stronger. And I’m happiest when my family is all together. My latest CT scan shows I’m cancer free! Now, I look forward to enjoying the rest of my life.

Linda Gebelein is happy to be alive and living in Huntersville with her husband. You can reach her at lgebelein75@gmail.com and find her blog at www.thelindareport.com.

©Andybor | Dreamstime.com

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