Lexington Woman Magazine by Woman 2 Woman Enterprises

Volume V

CELEBRATING, MOTIVATING, AND EDUCATING

Real WOMEN

every

What bride should know Playground Safety

Midlands Orthopaedics, PA

The Dems Gems Mrs. Livingston, Sylvia, Lia and Suzy

Cayce, Chapin, Columbia, Irmo, Lexington, West Columbia, and White Knoll

In this Issue

Volume V

CELEBRATING, MOTIVATING, AND EDUCATING

Real WOMEN

From the Editor 2 every

What bride should know Playground Safety

Midlands Orthopaedics, PA

Events

The Dems Gems Mrs. Livingston, Sylvia, Lia and Suzy

3 What’s happening in and around Lexington?

Cayce, Chapin, Columbia, Irmo, Lexington, West Columbia, and White Knoll

Volume V

Editor-In-Chief:

Lori Samples Duncan (ld@woman2woman.sc)

Media Representative:

Theresa Adams (adamsmedia1@gmail.com)

Contributing Writers:

Dr. Melissa Backman Amanda Ballew Ruth Chapman Pastor Mark Crumpton Lori Samples Duncan Jennifer Hutchinson, RDH Tim Loonam, DVM Melissa W. Morris Mandy Rivers Tyler Ryan Stephanie Schaller Jennifer Wilson Ginny Lawton Wood

Cover Photo:

Clark Berry Photography

Publication Layout and Ad Design: Melissa W. Morris

Photography:

Cathy Lindner Clark Berry Photography Grant Digital Media

Woman 2 Woman Enterprises

(803) 808.0866 PO Box 85282 | Lexington, SC 29073 Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this publication. However, the publisher cannot assume responsibility for errors or omissions. No part of this book may be reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission. © 2010

Things we love about

Lexington 4

Let’s Talk

5 6 8 10 13 14 16

A future Lexington woman to look for – Miss Emery Brooks! Fall Fashion His name is Harry What every bride should know! Honesty is the best policy Have an entrepreneurial spirit? Let’s explore State Farm Agency… ‘Tis the season to be green

Watch for this icon and be sure to check out the “On The Couch” interviews online at www.youtube.com/ lexingtonwomantv

Pets

18 Itchy dogs don’t always have fleas!

Professional

20 22 24 26

Borrow my big sister Brenda is making it personal Bryn Sarvis, Attorney at Law Tim Mozley, Ductz Total Care

Health & Wellness

27 29 30 32 34 35

Occupational and alternative therapy help change a life Oral Cancer Community Profile of Shirley Keels, Columbia Women’s Healthcare Playground safety Chiropractic and kids Good habits start early

Celebrating the Survivor in You!

38 You can be a Survivor 39 The Dems Gems: Mrs. Livingston, Sylvia, Lia and Suzy 42 On the Couch with Sandy Boozer 44 Navigating breast cancer with a unique perspective

Business & Web Directory 47 A Personal Note 48 www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

From the Editor

ummer, like all good things, must come to an end. Ahhh but God is good, and summer gives way to the beautiful leaf changing, humidity absent, cool winds of fall. I am so excited about pumpkins and FOOTBALL! I know I am not the only woman in Lexington who loves football. I can tell by all the car tags and flags. I love this time of year. As the weather gets cooler, our lives seem to calm down a bit, and there seems to be a “gathering” of our family. We seem to spend more time together as the year comes to an end, and I don’t just mean Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years. I want to do something more than I have done in the past. I want to change something. If it’s just one thing to make my life a little simpler, my home a little happier, I want to do that one thing. Lexington Woman wants to help your charity of choice. If you need to raise money for a non profit group or charity, from the FCA to the Ta-Tini’s, we want to help. Call us – we have a great idea to share with you. You know we pride ourselves on bringing you the best of the best in Lexington. We try to only promote businesses within our community who we feel are offering you quality services and products. We want to refer you to businesses we would use ourselves. Call us if you know a business we should be telling our readers about. I love to get an email from someone who has lived in Lexington their entire life that says, “ I didn’t know that she was a local girl,” or “ I had no idea she had been in business 20 years.” You know how us women are...we like to share good information! I am humbled that I get to share my thoughts and “nuggets” with you each time I write this page of the magazine. Thank you to all my Lexington readers, men and women, for allowing me to fulfill the vision I have for this publication. I love Lexington, the town, the county and more importantly the people in it! I am blessed!

Lori Samples Duncan (Become our fan on Facebook!)

Psalms 121:1-2

I will lift my eyes unto the hills from wence my help cometh. My helps comes from the Lord!

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating Real Women

Events

What’s happening in and around Lexington? 2010 Corn Maze September 11 – November 21 Clinton Sease Farm 404 Olde Farm Road, Lexington

The maze is open to the public on Fridays from 6-11pm, Saturdays from 10am-11pm, and Sundays from 2-7pm. Tickets are $10 per person and kids 2 and under are free. Visit www.clintoneasefarm.com for more information.

Support Carolina Springs Elementary in Say BOO to Diabetes Friday, October 1, 2010 Colonial Life Arena

Carolina Springs Elementary school will be participating in the JDRF “Say BOO to Diabetes” walk to cure diabetes on October 1st at the Colonial Life Arena. They are looking for walkers to join their team, business sponsors, and financial donations of any amount. Type 1 diabetes, also known as Juvenile diabetes, is a life threatening disease that affects thousands of children and adults. To see what Type 1 diabetes means to a child, please watch this video of 7 year old Kayla: www.youtube.com/watch?v=w3W2S_g0XHg Hopefully, this video will give you an idea of why it is so important to raise as much as possible for researchers to find a cure. They are also holding a walk for our students on October 22nd, selling the walk sneakers and lots of other fun activities. If you would like to help their team, please contact Ann Siderman at asiderman@sc.rr.com or Donna Walden at (803)821-5123. You can also make a donation by going to http://walk. jdrf.org/walker.cfm?id=87738504

Women’s Night Out 2010 Tuesday, October 12, 2010 at 5pm Embassy Suites Hotel

Presented by Lexington Medical Center, Women’s Night Out starts at 5pm with exhibits and a silent auction and is followed by dinner at 6:30pm. Heidi Marble, a breast cancer survivor and author of “Waiting for Wings, A Woman’s Metamorphosis Through Cancer” will be featured. Tickets are $35 and can be ordered by calling (803) 936-8850 or by visiting www.lexmed.com. All proceeds benefit the Lexington Medical Center Foundation Cancer Care fund.

Lexington Woman seen in Italy!

Becki Berry took our magazine on a recent trip to Italy.

Lexington Elementary School Free Internet Safety Class Thursday, October 14, 2010 at 6pm Lexington Elementary School

Lexington Elementary School’s Improvement Council is sponsoring an internet safety seminar called Internet Safety for Children and Adults in the school cafeteria. Patti Fowler, Internet Safety Education Coordinator, from the South Carolina Attorney General’s Office, will present internet safety tips for parents, information about cyber bullying, suggestions for keeping children safe online and tips for minimizing risk for children.

NBA Action Saturday, October 16, 2010 at 6:30pm Colonial Life Arena

Go see the Charlotte Bobcats vs. Detroit Pistons! Buy your tickets now at Time Warner Cable Box Office or at Play It Again Sports in NE Columbia and Lexington. You can also get tickets by visiting www.TWCtix.com or by calling 1-877-489-2849.

Lexington Woman Ad _Layout 1 4/22/10 11:08 AM Page 1

photo by Clark Berry Photography

White Knoll High School Varsity vs. Gilbert High School Varsity

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www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

Things We Love about

Lexington

Things we love about Lexington! by Lori Samples Duncan

ere are some of the things we love about Lexington:

The State Fair This time of year is a favorite. Tickets are on sale now at www.scstatefair.org for October 13-24. Experience the atmosphere, the chill in the air, the scent of fallen leaves and Fiske fries with vinegar. Pool-Lah-Lah’s™ I found the most wonderful custom towel wraps that are a holiday must have! You can wear them after the pool in the summer or just out of the shower on a daily basis. They are called Pool-Lah-Lah’s™ and you can order one for yourself at www.poollahlahs.com. They are created by Emmalie Velte of Lexington. You can look her up on Facebook under “Emmalie’s Pool, Shower and Bath Wraps” or call her at (803) 2387842. She can customize them to fit your personal needs!

Friday night lights! From C team games to Varsity, I love football in Lexington, where our children are learning valuable lessons about sportsmanship and healthy competition!

graphs by Clark and Becki Berry are family heirlooms! See their work on our cover and throughout the magazine. Visit www.clarkberry.com or call (803) 996-5982 to book them! Personalized Things for You I love their custom engraved baby blocks. These are not your average baby gift. These blocks are specifically made for your special little bundle and are uniquely engraved. See their ad on page 22.

Pleasant Hill Middle School The Old Mill in Lexington I love the businesses housed in this facility. From southern cuisine, custom engraving, state of the art photography and fine dining, The Old Mill is a great place to spend an afternoon or an evening. Clark Berry Photography After you come home from the honeymoon, the well wishers have gone away and the cake has been eaten, and all you have left is the beautiful memory of that day! Photo-

Community leaders I love community leaders like Sonic in Red Bank who go above and beyond to support local organizations by helping with fundraising and various other community service projects! Kovachi’s amazing event cakes! They are not only big enough to feed 50 or more people, but they taste delicious. My favorite was the strawberry cake at the Culinary Cards for Cancer event at the Wingate this September.

Monday - Thursday: Lunch 11am-3pm and Dinner 4pm-10pm Friday - Saturday: Lunch 11am-3pm and Dinner 4pm-11pm Sunday: 11:30am-7pm n Woman Bring Lexingto for a i ab as W to Thai on 10% discount l there! your next mea

803-957-9849 | 5454 Sunset Blvd. Ste. E, Lexington, SC 29072 | www.thaiwasabi.net

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating Real Women

Let’s Talk

photos by Clark Berry Photography

A future Lexington woman to look for – Miss Emery Brooks! by Tyler Ryan

nitially, I wondered what a nine year old and I would have to talk about. Ok, yes all the jokes about her being more mature than me aside. As I sat with Little Miss South Carolina, Overall, On The Couch, I found that pageantry, at least for Emery Brooks and her mom Teresa, is a lot more than a pretty face. First, let’s review a little about the crown and competition. With pageants everywhere you turn, or so it would seem, there are a couple of different “systems” and requirements to earn the titles. With Miss Brooks, her road to the crown consisted of interview, which, if you watch the On The Couch show, you will see why she passed that with flying colors, photogenic, beauty, and talent. (Depending on the pageant, talent is not always a requirement.) Emery has been competing since she was two years old, but her shyness kept her from winning titles. At five, she returned to competition, and over the last few years has learned many lessons, not only about how to win a beauty contest, but life lessons which transcend the whole thing. What does it take to make it to the big moment? Its starts off stage, where contestants must be on their “best behavior.” From there, it takes a lot of preparation. Not just smiling and walking, but in the interview portion as well. Granted, we all remember the moment when a ques-

tion about a map created a YouTube sensation out of one very bright young lady, but truthfully, that can be the most stressful part of competition. Having judged a competition or two, I know that the questions are totally random, and can throw even the most seasoned competitor off her game. It was Emery’s interview, however, that lead her to the Top 12...after “trying really really hard,” of course. She then found herself in the top two of her category. In fact, this precocious queen told me that even after hearing her name and number read as the winner, she still didn’t realize she had won. According to mom, Emery doesn’t like to compete in pageants; she likes to “perform” in the pageant. She gets up there, and is herself, Teresa said. It’s not every title that someone, regardless of beauty, talent and interview, can win. When the stage lights go dark, staying grounded for some, can be a bit challenging. Win or lose, when Emery gets off the stage, she is “back to being Emery.” The graciousness that Emery seems to possess comes from the importance her parents put on the Golden Rule. “Being considerate to everyone.” Win or lose, Emery has learned that there is a grace in congratulating the winner, and not being aloof when she is wearing a sash and crown. I think it is important to point out that Emery, even at nine, recognizes the positive im-

pact education is going to have as she aspires to be a “weather girl.” She is very proud of the fact that she is a good student, and wants to make sure other boys and girls her age work hard in school because there really is a payoff.

...I found that it is a lot more than a pretty face. With the title also comes responsibilities, and this nine year old is learning how to be a good steward of her community. She works with the Children’s Health Hospital and various other charities in the area. She also gets to do “other fun things” like meet the Governor. What motivates Emery to perform, as Mom puts it? For Emery, it’s all the glitz and glamour. “It helps my self confidence,” she says, and like any young girl, she enjoys making the new friends she finds at each competition. Is there more than a pretty face to winning a pageant at nine years old? You bet. Just ask her. She’s happy to tell you.

Know a young lady who should be featured here? Please email your submissions to ld@woman2woman.sc for consideration in our next issue.

www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

Let’s Talk

Fall fashion!

KICKS Exceptional Shoes

by Mandy Rivers

Fashionista Jackie Howie

othing will put the pep in your step like that first cool breeze that announces the Fall season. Those balmy, stagnate afternoons that seem to go on forever are replaced with crisp, cool twilights and an invigorating urge to change things up a bit! Forget about changing your entire wardrobe, according to our local fashionistas, this year it’s all about the details: hair, shoes, makeup, accessories and jewelry.

Hair

We may not always think about updating our hairstyle when transitioning into Fall but what a clever idea to make a statement that will go with every outfit! Leasa Collins of Cho on Main gave us some great suggestions for subtle changes that will add so much to your fall look. To add definition that says so long to summer, blondes can go for the lowlights and brunettes for highlights in shades of red and auburn. Get the bounce back that summer stole from your do by adding layers. Thinking of going longer? Ladies with short hair might want to add some So-Cap extensions while growing their hair.

Fabulous Looks at All Prices www.shopatkicks.com

...according to our local fashionistas, this year is all about the details: hair, shoes, makeup, accessories and jewelry.

KICKS Shoes is celebrating 13 years in business. Jackie Howie has two locations in the Midlands to serve you – at the Flight Deck in Lexington and at 2921 Devine Street in downtown Columbia. With shoes for every price point, KICKS is known for their laidback shopping experience and their commitment to the community. Log on to our website to see Jackie on the cover of our Mother’s Day issue and visit shopatkicks.com to find the perfect shoes for you!

Shoes

This season is all about the shoes. Jackie Howie at Kicks Exceptional Shoes at the Shoppes at Flight Deck says funky clogs and flat boots with skirts and dresses is the look for this Fall. Kicks has the latest from your favorite designers. And since we’re not buying new wardrobes this season, why not splurge on something from one of the latest designer shoes lines just picked up for the season! • Oprah’s favorite line and a timeless classic, Cole Haan. • Diane von Furstenberg (DVF) can dress you from head to toe with her fabulous shoes!

photo by Clark Berry Photography

Jackie Howie

The Shoppes at Flight Deck 109 Old Chapin Road Lexington, SC 29072 803.957.8892 2921 Devine Street Columbia, SC 29205 803.254.3937

Cole Haan • Kate Spade • KORS • Sam Edelman • Pour la Victoire • Matt Bernson • Kelsi Dagger Bernardo • Diba/Bronx • Luichiny • BCBG • Pura Lopez • Nanette Lepore • Tibi

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating Real Women

Let’s Talk • Matt Bernson has given his popular sandal line a new twist with clogs and booties!

Makeup

Lexington’s own Katherine Jumper (www. katherinejumper.com), a film and television makeup artist, gave us the scoop on makeup trends for Fall 2010. She says, “Metallics on eyes in full-on coverage is big this year. From lash line to brow, in coppers and bronze mixed with plums and indigo, go for all-over coverage. Smokey eyes have been hot for a while but the trend is even bigger this year.” “Purples are IN! For eyes, lips and nails… bright orchid to deep eggplant is a huge trend for Fall 2010. Red lips are always big for Fall… think 1940’s glamour when red lips ruled the runways during Fall Fashion week. They are bold, daring and sexy!” Katherine says that another big trend is matte, natural looking skin with less color on cheeks and more focus on eyes and lips. With all attention on the eyes this season, perfectly sculpted brows are a must as they frame the face and provide balance.

Accessories

Leasa from Cho also gave us some great advice about accessories. “Just take that great pair of jeans (By the way, at Cho our favorite is Paige Denim. We started carrying the line because we all had to have a pair!), put on a turtleneck and layer the bracelets and a

CHO100801_onethird_LW_OCT10_0901.indd 1

‘Fall is about the jewels, pearls, chunky necklaces and bracelets...’

chunky necklace and you will feel like you made that transition into fall.” The “hobo” and “tote” are this Fall’s musthaves in handbags! And if it’s handbags you’re after, visit Kicks and take a look at their latest designer bags from Ava, Capetown, Gramercy, Logan and more.

Cho on Main Leasa Collins of Cho

Leasa Collins, from our panel of Fashionistas, is the owner of Cho on Main. Leasa’s commitment to make Cho a fun and inviting spa experience has added one more perk to Main Street Lexington. Serving gourmet coffee and featuring a boutique, you are sure to find something here to help accent your new fall look. With services ranging from eyelash extensions to teeth whitening, there is something for everyone at Cho on Main!

Kicks also mentions another hot trend this season: tights! Bold and funky to sleek and sexy are the looks we’ll be seeing in this season’s tights. Pair them with your favorite skirt or dress, add a fabulous scarf and jacket and transform your summer skirt into a total look for Fall.

Jewelry

Cho’s Leasa Collins also says, “Fall is about the jewels, pearls, chunky necklaces and bracelets. Don’t be afraid to layer different types of necklaces (think Coco Chanel).” Achieve that custom, layered, chunky look with the latest trend in jewelry – beads! If

Leasa Collins

9/1/10 3:16:01 PM www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

Let’s Talk you’re not “beading” yet, you’re missing out on the most fun you’ve ever had with jewelry. Dems Fine Jewelers in Irmo has the biggest selection of these uber-trendy beads in SC. The artisan, handcrafted, Murano glass beads are made from 18K gold, sterling silver, Italian quality glass, natural pearls, precious stones and Swarovski crystal. Mix and match these interchangeable beads on earrings, necklaces, rings and bracelets to create that custom look. Get the look! No need to look to New York or Atlanta for your fabulous Fall look this year. Lexington has all there is to offer in the latest fashion trends!

Fall Fashion

Help!

His name is Harry by Ruth Chapman

ccording to our Lexington High School senior, there is a tale that has emerged about “the crooked man of Lexington” and that if he points at you, you are cursed for a year. Quite the contrary; the “crooked man” as he has been called is our friend, Harry. I’m sure you’ve seen him riding his motorized bicycle up and down Highway 378 in Lexington. Or perhaps you’ve seen him when you visited our store as he is a frequent guest. Harry pops in from time to time; sometimes two or three times in a single day, then not again for a month. He is “crooked” because a couple of years ago he slipped on icy steps coming out of his

back door and injured his back. As he told us in his own words, paraphrased, he needs surgery to correct his posture but he is afraid to have it because his doctor can not guarantee with 100% accuracy that he will still be able to walk after the surgery. Harry used to walk around town, usually with a white plastic bag in his hand. He kept all sorts of treasures in the bags, and sometimes he would leave his bags with us for a brief time, while he went to get a drink or crackers at the gas station next door. We have never looked in the bags, but feel sure its contents are harmless, just as Harry is harmless.

Hair

Cho On Main 127 East Main Street Lexington 803.356.1111 www.choonmain.com

Shoes

Kicks Exceptional Shoes The Shoppes at Flight Deck 109 Old Chapin Road Lexington 803.957.8892 www.shopatkicks.com Kicks Exceptional Shoes 2921 Devine Street Columbia 803.254.3937 www.shopatkicks.com

Makeup

Katherine Jumper www.katherinjumper.com

Accessories

Cho On Main 127 East Main Street Lexington 803.356.1111 www.choonmain.com Harry

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating Real Women

Let’s Talk

...the ‘crooked man’ as he has been called is our friend, Harry. I’m sure you’ve seen him riding his motorized bicycle up and down Highway 378 in Lexington.

Through misfortune comes a ray of sunshine. Harry told us that he was involved in an accident on his bicycle and spent some time in the hospital. Even though he was injured, he was able to purchase a semi-motorized bicycle which saves him from walking everywhere and enables him to move farther around the community, in search of the elusive job. His sole purpose in life is to find a job. Harry frequently comes to my husband, Chris, to assist him in completing a job application or to write down words he should look for on store signs. I believe he has applied at every restaurant within a 5 mile radius of Lexington, usually as a dishwasher or busboy. He has limited job skills and with his back in such poor condition, heavy lifting is out of the question. He has had jobs over the years at local restaurants, usually keeping the job only for a short time. But don’t feel sorry for him, he is taken care of financially and has an appointed trustee watching out for him. Harry seemed excited about being the subject of an article in the magazine and having his picture taken. He

hopes that people will wave and say hello when they see him. He made it known that he particularly likes to be called Buddy. Harry is an avid animal lover. He is the proud owner of 3 cats. He believes three is the most he can reasonably care for even if someone offers him another stray.

C C

Sometimes you will see Harry on the street corner pointing and yelling. He is pointing at trucks which he believes run over stray animals. And he is yelling at them to slow down and be aware of the animals. So the next time you see him, give a shout to Harry and let him know he is cared for as just another poor soul trying to make it through life the best way he can. Visit The Chapman Company Fine Jewelers at 903 North Lake Drive in Lexington for the latest trends in jewelry.

THE

HAPMAN OMPANY

FINE JEWELERS

Specializing in On-Site Repair and Custom Design

803-996-5530

903 North Lake Drive, Lexington (look for the black awning)

www.thechapmancompany.com

“Autumn is a second spring when every leaf’s a flower.”

“Autumn – the reprieve from Summer.”

“Everyone must take time to sit and watch the leaves turn.”

– Albert Camus

– Mike Garofalo

– Elizabeth Lawrence www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

What

every bride

should know!

by Melissa W. Morris

n August, my wonderful husband and I were married at the Corley Mill House and Garden in Lexington. Thanks to all of our great vendors, family, and friends, the day was one we’ll never forget. Now that I’ve had time to process everything (it all happens so fast), and though I am by no means an expert at wedding planning, I thought I’d share a few things with those who are newly engaged or plan to be soon – just a few tips and things I should have done differently during my planning process!

It’s all about the details!

Sure, a wedding is something most girls dream about all their life, but no one tells you just how many details are involved! After all, there weren’t too many decisions to make when we were playing wedding in our backyards as kids! From choosing a venue down to the color of the cufflinks on the tuxes, there are so many things to think about. Though the details may take a ton of time, just keep in mind that all of the special touches you add to reflect your own tastes are what help make your wedding unique. 10

photo by Clark Berry Photography

Consider the time of year, because summer weddings are hot!

Let’s face it, having lived in South Carolina all my life, I knew this already, but my husband and I decided on a summer wedding anyway. August was the only time that really worked for us. To help make matters worse, I was determined to have an outdoor wedding. From fans to bottled water, I did everything I could to make our guests comfortable, but I know the heat was miserable. If I had to do it all over again, I would have chosen a cooler time of year. Looking back, I should just be grateful that it didn’t rain (it poured the night before). If you have the choice, consider the time of year – it could make a world of difference!

Pack your overnight bag before the day of the wedding.

I had a lot on my mind in the weeks leading up to the wedding and didn’t take the time to pack my bag for the night of the wedding. I hastily threw a bag together the morning of the wedding, not realizing I was leaving out essential items. When we went to leave the

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating Real Women

hotel the next morning after the wedding, I realized I hadn’t packed any clothes to wear home. Luckily, I still had the clothes I had been wearing before I put my dress on the day before, avoiding having to leave the hotel in my wedding dress, but it would have been nice to have clean clothes!

Don’t take on too many DIY projects.

Being a graphic designer, I felt almost obligated to create all of the printed pieces for the wedding, but I took it a step further. Ranging from save-the-dates, invitations, favors, programs, jewelry for my bridesmaids, the cupcake stand, and even the cake topper, I tried to make everything myself. I had a vision of what I wanted and felt like I could handle it. What I didn’t factor in was the time it would take. I spent countless hours making things for the wedding, and although I was satisfied with how things turned out, I wouldn’t recommend it to anyone else. A few DIY (Do-It-Yourself) projects are fine, but trying to balance all of the projects I took on along with work and everything else became an issue for me towards the end.

Let’s Talk Just ask my husband – I’m surprised he still married me after the final week leading up to the wedding!

Ask for help (or in my case, accept it)!

I can’t stress this enough. I barely had any sleep the week of my wedding because I was so determined to do everything myself (and had procrastinated on a few things). I should have allowed people to help with more stuff than I did. It wasn’t for lack of help – I had plenty of offers from my mom, bridesmaids, mother-in-law, other family members, and friends, but I was stubborn. Believe me, if they’re willing to help, let them!

Don’t sweat the small stuff.

No one will know if things don’t go according to your master plan. I had so many people tell me this beforehand, but in my head, I was thinking, “I will notice, and no, nothing can go wrong.” I did everything I could to make sure nothing went wrong, and in the end, there were a few glitches that of course only I noticed. But, at that time, it was out of my hands, and I just had to let it go. Worrying is a huge waste of time!

Don’t plan too many life-changing events at one time!

While I was taking on more DIY projects than I could handle, my husband and I were also dealing with several other events in our lives. He graduated from tax law school at the University of Florida three months prior to the wedding, accepted a job a month later, and took the South Carolina Bar Exam the week before the wedding (yes, one week before). Due to his new job, we were also packing all of our belongings in preparation to move after the wedding, and I was dealing with leaving my full-time job. So, we got

Jeff and Melissa getting ready; Cameron (ring bearer) and Amanda Wates (bridesmaid)

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www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

Let’s Talk

photos by Clark Berry Photography

(left) Flower girls Madison Strom and Sara Frances Wates; (right) Cupcake tree – cupcakes and cake by Donna Wates married, went on our honeymoon, and then with help from family, we moved the day after we returned from our honeymoon (after only three hours of sleep). My husband began his new job the following day. There was a lot going on in our lives, but luckily we made it through! If you have the choice, try not to take on more than one big event at a time, especially while planning your wedding. I’m amazed that I didn’t have any nervous breakdowns before it was all said and done, although I came very close!

Enjoy it!

Everyone will tell you this, but because I was in such a daze, I had to force myself to remember. Our ceremony and reception both flew by, and before we knew it, we were on the way to our honeymoon. Luckily, during the ceremony, I remembered the advice of a co-worker. She had advised me to just stop and take in the moment during the ceremony. It was worth it – I think those few seconds that I stopped and really thought about what was happening around me became my clearest memory of the whole day.

Though there may be things I would have done differently in my planning process, we still had a wonderful wedding, and I wouldn’t trade it in for anything. Thanks to the staff of the Corley Mill House and Lake Murray DJ Service, we still have people telling us what a great time they had. Because of Clark Berry Photography, I have tons of amazing photos to help me remember the day. When I first saw my photos after the wedding, it was like reliving the wedding day all over again! Every moment was captured, so that we’ll never forget what an amazing day it was!

Congratulations Melissa Jeff! Lake Murray DJ Service

– Corley Mill House & Garden

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Let’s Talk

Honesty is the best policy by Pastor Mark Crumpton

onesty is the best policy, or at least that is what we tell our children.

Growing up my father used to tell me, “Son, I only have one thing in this world that I can give you and that is your name, take care of it.” As a young boy I don’t know that I fully understood what he was telling me, but as I have gotten older, I realize he was talking about my character and doing the “right thing” even when it may not benefit me the most and even when no one is looking. As parents, we all want to raise children who will do the right thing even when no one is looking; I call that Integrity. Define Integrity: soundness of moral character; honesty What we too often fail to realize is that people are always watching, listening, and observing. You know the old saying “Actions speak louder than words”. We tell our children that honesty is the best policy but we don’t always show by our actions that we really believe this.

Will you tell a little white lie when someone asks why you were late? What will you do when you drive all the way home and realize that you were given too much change at the store? Do you call in sick when you really aren’t? Do you take advantage of people or their situations for your financial gain. Do you hide things from your spouse? The point I am trying to make is that there are opportunities all around you to teach your children by example how to be a person of integrity and to be someone that your children and other people around you can look up to – a person of integrity. Someone once said that the true test of character is what you do when you know absolutely nobody else will find out. Quotes from a name you know: “I desire so to conduct the affairs of this administration that if at the end, when I come to lay down the reins of power, I have lost every other friend on earth. I shall at least have one friend left, and that friend shall be down inside of me.” “I do the very best I know how; the very best I

can; and I mean to keep on doing it to the end. If the end brings me out all right, what is said against me will not amount to anything.” These quotes are from a man we call “Honest Abe Lincoln.” Prov 20:7 7 The righteous man walks in his integrity; His children are blessed after him. NKJV What kind of name are you leaving for your children? Is it one they can stand behind, trust, and believe in ... or not? If not; you can begin TODAY to be a person of Integrity, as I am sure you will have opportunities.

John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. (KJV) Pastor Mark Crumpton, Lexington Church of God 1228 S. Lake Drive, Lexington, SC 29073 www.LexCOG.org or find us on Facebook (803) 957-6675

HD Video Production - Consulting - Photography (803) 360-9164 • www.grantdigitalmedia.com www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

Let’s Talk

Have an entrepreneurial spirit? Let’s explore State Farm Agency… Let’s talk with Agency Recruiter, Julie McDowell — by Tyler Ryan

photos by Grant Digital Media

here are some jingles we all can sing. “Like a good neighbor…” you know the rest, it’s been the slogan for State Farm for as long as many of us can remember. Julie McDowell is one of those good neighbors. Not as someone you call after an accident, but someone who introduces many women, and men alike, to one of the greatest entrepreneurial opportunities available: The opportunity of owning your own business as a State Farm Agent. Julie’s role, as an agency recruiter, is to find the “next generation” of agents, and in that role, she actively tries to recruit candidates who posses these competencies. According to Julie, State Farm looks for several areas of business skill or “know how” in the recruitment process, but it is not all in the business training or background. In fact, some of the initial 21 areas of competency that are evaluated have more to do with character than Ivy League degrees. “Someone who is interested in owning their own business” tops the list, as well as the “strong entrepreneurial desire”. Characteristics including a “passion for work” and being a “solid relationship builder” are key skill sets of a successfully recruited State Farm agency candidate. State Farm, says Julie, has a different model than many other agencies; in that as an agent, there is often a “book of business” that is passed to the new agent when they take over an existing agency. From there, the

agent can build upon the success of the previous agents or organically grow their own success story from a New Market Agency Opportunity, which is building an agency from ‘scratch’.

Julie’s role, as an agency recruiter, is to find the ‘next generation’ of agents... The complete process is lengthy, but “it’s not easy for a reason,” as State Farm wants the best of the best. It starts at home, with an assessment called the Sales and Leadership Career Profile. From there, they look at your credit and background. Next, you attend a day-long seminar which is entitled Career Understanding, which is simply that, understanding the career and life of a State Farm Agent and making sure that this is the career for you. You must complete a business plan, which covers how you envision the dream of ownership, this is presented during an interview. Scared yet? Not with someone like Julie on your side. Her job as a recruiter is to help you succeed. Once a candidate has successfully navigated through the process, you enter a pool of candidates in order to wait for the right agency opportunity for you. You will have approximately up to three years to stay among this pool of agency can-

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didates before you would have to begin the agency career track process again. Sounds pretty great, huh? A business plan, some interviews, and you are on your way to a successful business, right? Julie is convinced that if you possess the right skills, some business, some personal, that you may, in fact, have an opportunity at your doorstep. Ok, so now you are thinking to yourself, “how do I get started?” As Julie indicated, it’s not an easy process, and it’s not easy for a reason, but it certainly could represent a great opportunity for women and men who want to create a business that means more than your name on a deskplate. On that list, sadly for someone like me, is math. Oh well, guess I will stick to writing. But, in an economic climate such as we are in, it may be the best time in the world to empower yourself. Perhaps State Farm is that very opportunity? If you are interested in reaching your potential with a company like State Farm, Julie McDowell would love to talk with you. Email her at julie.mcdowell.jfqi@statefarm.com or call 803-935-3725. Or learn more about the agency opportunity and the process at www.StateFarm.com or www.sfyourstyle.com. Oh, and just for fun, make sure you check out her On The Couch interview. She shares a secret recipe for ribs. Ok, not really, but there is some great information! Log onto www.lexingtonwomanonline.com.

“

Let Me Introduce you to the State Farm® Agency Opportunity

“

Julie McDowell Agency Recruiter

www.sfyourstyle.com

Call 803.935.3725 today and ask Julie about becoming a State Farm agent! 7 Technology Circle | Suite 400 | Columbia, SC 29203 | julie.mcdowell.jfqi@statefarm.com

LIKE A GOOD NEIGHBOR,

STATE FARM IS THERE.® www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

‘Tis the season to be by Tyler Ryan

igher than the Verizon tower, which can be looked down upon, and some five thousand feet above sea level, Carroll Garland can look at three states simply by turning his head. He can also see acres and acres of Christmas trees that, within a couple months, will warm the hearts of big and small kids all over the southeast, and even California. It is the family business, and what some could call the life’s work, of this now grandfather from Banner Elk, North Carolina. Banner Elk is a twenty mile ride from the nearest Wal-Mart, near Boone, and is where Garland, his wife, children, and grandchildren have called home, and given back to the community for over thirty-five years. Carroll Sr. (his son also carries the name), came to the area in the mid sixties, because of an opportunity with BB&T, the bank he worked at for several decades, and fell in love with the area. In fact, Carroll Sr. turned down many promotions with the bank so that he could stay in this near perfect section of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

green

In the mid seventies, he and 3 other friends all started a small Christmas tree business. After several seasons, the group disbanded. Carroll Sr. opted to stay in the business and build it. “We have around a million and a half trees,” says Carroll, which are spread across thirty-six farms. As I rode around with the Carroll’s (Sr. and Jr.), I was fascinated about the process, which they have honed and can create perfect tree after perfect tree. “The fullness and shape” are two of the criteria to be a Hawk Mountain tree. These are certainly not Charlie Brown trees. “Trees grow approximately one foot a year,” according to Carroll Sr., so there is much more to the process than simply cutting down a bunch of trees each year. There are four visits each year to each farm, and all of the trees, according to Carroll Jr., are inspected, shaped, and then tagged for harvest. Starting around the first of November each year, every tree is checked, and selections are made. Out of the inventory,

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The family’s commitment to community and keeping the local economy churning can be seen all over town. approximately seventy-five thousand are cut, and either shipped or prepared for local sale in the Boone area. They select groups of trees of all different shapes and sizes, to ensure that the family looking for the right tree can take one home. The Garland’s are not simply the tree moguls of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The family’s commitment to community and keeping the local economy churning can be seen all over town. There’s Country Girl Gallery, where visitors can bring home a bit of local flavor. And let’s not forget the Highland House Ski shop, where folks can rent gear at rates substantially under the normal market prices.

Let’s Talk

Congratulations

to these Lexington Dixie Youth Teams!

Because of the hard work and partnership over the years, the Grandfather Home for Children, which houses some two-hundred and fifty wayward children has named a program after Carroll. The Hawk Mountain Tree Farm also employs approximately twenty people year round, and when harvest season arrives, there are over one hundred folks who can count on the Garland’s to make their Christmas a little more merry. They even help charities every year, by offering discounts to groups wishing to sell trees in order to raise money for their causes. There’s also the environment that is constantly in the hearts of the family. For every tree they harvest for sale, they plant four. “Artificial trees are used for a few years, then discarded, where they sit in landfills for over one hundred years,” says Sonya Garland. When Hawk Mountain trees have complet-

Gene Frye’s Lexington Minor Independent

For every tree they harvest for sale, they plant four.

2010 Dixie Youth AAA World Series Champions

ed their mission, they can be used as mulch, and other applications. A small family business. Community commitments. Creating employment. Pride in the environment. There’s many reasons that the Garland’s love Banner Elk, and even more reasons Banner Elk loves ‘em back. If you want to see these trees up close and personal, at least as personal as your computer screen can get, logon to www.hawkmountaintreefarm.com and see for yourself.

Greg Bowers’ Lexington Ozone American

Runners-up in the Dixie Youth Ozone World Series

If your organization is interested in raising money this year by selling these trees, please contact us here at Lexington Woman at (803) 808-0866.

Chris Stout’s Coach’s Pitch Lexington National Team

2nd place in the Regional Tournament in Clarkton, NC

Carroll and Sonya Garland

The #16 jersey is in memory of Michael Lassiter, who played JV baseball for Irmo High. The boys carried the jersey with them through all of their tournaments.

www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

Pets

Itchy dogs don’t always have fleas! by Tim Loonam, DVM

ruritus, or itchiness, is one of the most common reasons owners take their pets to the veterinarian. According to VPI, a nationwide pet health insurer, itchy skin tops their list of client claims. If your pet is itchy and keeping you up at night scratching, licking and thumping his foot on the floor, it may be more than fleas! Pruritus is rarely a primary medical problem in dogs and cats and occurs in response to several medical, parasitic and allergic conditions. In many cases, the itchiness worsens with secondary bacterial and fungal infections which develop with chronic itching. Although cats and dogs are mammals like humans, it’s important to understand there are many differences between your skin and the skin of your pet. For example, dogs have about a third less natural oils in their skin than we do. This is important when choosing shampoos and bathing your pet. Veterinary dermatologists recommend nondetergent shampoos (aloe and oatmeal types are great!) and ALWAYS follow shampooing with a conditioner to replace the natural oils stripped away during bathing. A common owner mistake and cause of dry skin and itchiness is from the use of baby

Although cats and dogs are mammals like humans, it’s important to understand there are many differences between your skin and the skin of your pet.

shampoos. Baby shampoo is thought to be mild when in fact it is designed to treat ‘cradle cap’ a fungal infection in infants. Also be wary of harsh, over-the-counter flea and tick shampoos which are equally drying to your pet’s skin. Fleas are prevalent year-round in South Carolina and now are very easy to prevent with a variety of topical and oral products available through your veterinarian. Some are waterproof for up to 30 days and some will also help prevent heartworm and ticks. Sadly, some dogs will develop an allergy to the saliva from the flea’s bite. This ‘flea allergy dermatitis’ can set off a severe

skin reaction similar to that in people who are allergic to poison ivy. It’s especially important to prevent fleas in these pets, so see your veterinarian for the best products for your pet’s lifestyle. Other parasitic diseases such as demodectic and sarcoptic mange or ringworm, a fungal infection, may be the cause of your pet’s itchiness. Although there are many home remedies and ‘wives tales’ on how to treat mange and ringworm none of them work! Let your veterinarian diagnose the problem and prescribe the best treatment to remedy your pet and protect you and your family. After fleas, inhalant allergies are the most common cause of itchiness in pets. Like people, pets can develop allergies to envi-

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Pets ronment allergens such as pollens, molds, grasses and even to humans. The most common signs are itchy skin with secondary infections, recurring ear infections, head shaking, and inflamed anal sacs resulting in itchy bottoms and ‘butt scootin’. Most allergies are seasonal although in severe cases they may persist year-round. Inhalant allergies or ‘atopy’ are diagnosed by ruling out other causes of itchiness, especially parasites, and by response to treatment. Your veterinarian may recommend allergy skin testing by a veterinary dermatologist or via special blood tests. These tests will identify a list of potential allergens. Then, a customized vial of allergen extracts are prepared and owners are taught to give allergy shots over several months to years to help their pet develop an appropriate response to allergens. Besides the use of steroids and antihistamines there are other allergy drugs available to treat this condition. It’s important to remember that allergies are rarely cured so the goal is management. Finally, certain foods can cause allergies resulting in itchy skin and ears. Many food manufacturers claim grains in pet food, especially corn, are the cause for poor skin; however, current veterinary research does not support cereal grains as a major cause of allergies. Skin and blood tests for food allergies are unreliable and the only true method of diagnosing food allergies is by a strict food trial. Let your veterinarian help you evaluate your pet’s diet and make recommendations on a diet trial if food allergies are suspected. For more information on treating your pet’s itchiness, visit www.itchnot.com and www.atopica.com.

“Winter is an etching, spring a watercolor, summer an oil painting and autumn a mosaic of them all.” – Stanley Horowitz

www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

Professional

Borrow my big sister

by Ginny Lawton Wood, sister of Ashby Lawton Jones

walked into the lunch room freshman year at the beginning of second semester to find an unwelcome surprise; someone was sitting at my usual seat. I was derailed. Everyone knew implicitly that your social rank determined your seat at lunch. The most popular kids were closer to the center seats; the less popular kids were flanking the ends; the outcasts were literally outcast, outside on the sidewalk. Clearly, someone failed to tell the preppy kid in my seat that just because his schedule changed didn’t mean he could take my seat. So, I told him. I was apparently wrong, apparently outranked. My own friends quickly turned against me in favor of his puppy-dog eyes and gleaming white teeth. I stood there with them looking up at me, waiting for me to walk away. I was alone, rejected, and humiliated. Then, the impossible happened. My sister, one of the seniors in the inner table of a long line of senior tables, spotted me from across the cafeteria. Quickly surmising my distress, she rose and began trekking over to me and my peers. She didn’t have to ask; she could see what had occurred. With a few terse statements, a frighteningly intimidating glare, and an impenetrable confidence, my sister berated the entire table for reject-

...though she has come a long way since high school, her protective instincts, quick responses, intuition, and compassion are still her hallmark traits.

Ginny (left) with her sister Ashby (right) ing me. Then, she invited me to her table, the table of senior nobility across the room. I sat with her for an unprecedented week and never had trouble maintaining my place again. My sister is Ashby Jones, and though she has come a long way since high school, her protective instincts, quick responses, intuition, and compassion are still her hallmark traits. These traits have made her a successful wife, mother, and lawyer.

Her compassion makes her a great lawyer because she always shows up, prepared and unfaltering in her loyalty.

photo by Clark Berry Photography

Ashby Jones, Kinard & Jones, LLC

Ashby now practices law in Lexington, focusing primarily on family law but also on Plaintiff ’s litigation. Ashby’s confidence in the legal field comes from careful preparation for each case. She prioritizes the clients’ needs daily, working by the motto,

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating Real Women

“Just work the cases.” She has always been a worker. For several years in my childhood, I was not allowed to go in her room because I would disturb her studying. If Ashby Jones is confident when she walks into a courtroom, she should be. She is prepared. Ashby’s reputation as a fighter stems from her desire to protect her clients’ interests and to maintain a level of dignity throughout any case. The guard-dog reaction I benefited from in the cafeteria years ago has been replayed in countless situations for me and for many others since. Ashby’s fighting spirit is a comfort to her clients during confrontations, allowing them to trust that their lawyer will protect them from outside threats. As a child I called Ashby, “second mommy.” She was the boss of me. She taught me to bunny-hop, to do a toe-touch, to put on make-up, and to study for the SAT. She also taught me to be compassionate. She taught me that when someone is sick, I should, “Make something with cream of mushroom soup in it.” She taught me how to write a sincere thank-you note. She taught me that “showing up” is most important. Her compassion makes her a great lawyer because she always shows up, prepared and unfaltering in her loyalty. Sometimes we all need a big sister to help us fight our battles and to help us find a seat at the table. I’m happy to share mine.

KINARD

JONES

LLC

Attorneys at Law

RESPECTED LEXINGTON ATTORNEYS WHO CARE

• Auto Accidents • Injury • Divorce • Custody • Criminal Defense

803-359-1003

kinardandjones.com

303 South Lake Drive

•

Lexington, SC 29072

•

Fax (803) 359-1378 www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

Professional

Brenda is making it personal by Tyler Ryan

“I

t was a leap of faith” that led Brenda into the engraving business, which is still a predominantly a male industry. But first, let’s learn a little about Brenda. She was one of five, born into a military family in Augusta, Georgia. She and each of her four siblings all claim a different birth state, but finally landed in Columbia. It was here in the Midlands that she met her husband of 22 years, Robert. They have one daughter Charleston, age 11. After seven years working in accounting for the restaurant business and another fourteen in the health insurance industry, she finally gave into Robert, who had been encouraging her to follow her artistic side, and start a business that let her left side of her brain take over. It was the engraving business that called to her. “I have always enjoyed graphic designing,” Brenda said. She was the one in the office that would do the “silly Photoshopped images for a co-worker’s birthday or retirement party.” She would also help other friends design their own business cards, yellow page ads, flyers, etc. It was hard to call it work when she enjoyed it do much.

In February 2010, in the middle of a less than stellar economy, she decided to open her own retail store, Personalized Things For You in Lexington. photo by Clark Berry Photography

Brenda of Personalized Things For You In 2007, Brenda and Robert took a leap of faith, purchased some equipment and began working out of her home. She landed business engraving mostly wholesale items for local stores in Lexington and Columbia, and launched her website. In February 2010, in the middle of a less than stellar economy, she decided to open her own retail store, Personalized Things

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For You, at The Old Mill in Lexington. The building and unit had that unique look and character that she was looking for, which makes for a great showcase for her product line. What sets her work apart is the very gender difference that draws a line of the traditional engraver. “The majority of engravers are male. That being said, I feel I put a woman’s

Professional touch in all my engravings,” says Brenda. She believes that engraving can be so much more than a name and a date. She inspires customers to build their own custom item. Font choices, clip art or poems all customize their items. Some of her big items are unique custom gifts: Baby Blocks, Acrylic Cake Toppers, Custom Lake Murray Paddles and Palmetto Tree Items. After several years in business, and a new storefront, Brenda’s passion is alive and well. She is “always looking for new and unique items to engrave.” Her new favorite items include a line of Fashionable Medical Alert Jewelry. As a Medic Alert bracelet wearer, she has always been disappointed in the fashion options available to wearers. Brenda believes that since many stores only carry the metal Medical Alert bracelets, which wear down over time, her custom line give wearers the security they need, and the fashion they want. Brenda’s passion is not simply about making money. Several times a year, she brings out her mobile on-site engraving facility for special events she and her family support, including

‘The majority of engravers are male... I feel I put a woman’s touch in all my engravings.’

the Special Olympics. At these events she engraves Sporting Event Dog Tags, License Plates, Jewelry and Key Chains. A percentage of every sale goes right to the organization. “It’s a family affair. My husband and daughter take the orders and I engrave the merchandise,” says Brenda. So the next time you need a unique personalized engraved gift, you might want to stop by the Old Mill in Lexington, pop into Personalized Things For You, and say hey to Brenda. You can also find her on the web, at www. PersonalizedThingsForYou.com. “Whether you spend $10 or $50, you can give a custom engraved gift that will be remembered for a lifetime.”

photos by Clark Berry Photography

www.TylerRyanGroup.com

803.398.1776 www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

Professional

Bryn Sarvis, Attorney at Law by Tyler Ryan

here’s just something about working in, with, and for the community that you grew up in. A feeling of home. That is the story for Bryn Sarvis, the lead civil litigation attorney at the Law Office of Richard J. Breibart, Bryn’s journey away from, and eventually back, started in the Lexington County Courthouse, where her father primarily practiced. Sitting in the courtroom, seeing her father’s passion for the law, inspired the would be attorney to foreshadow her future. “I did a presentation to the school board when I was six saying I wanted to be an attorney. It’s on the record.” That fateful statement set in motion what has become a love for what she does. Although her father never pushed her toward the Bar, Bryn’s mom and dad always encouraged her to do what she wanted to do. It was her love

It was her love of writing, debating, and solving problems that carried her right into the footsteps of Mr. Sarvis. of writing, debating, and solving problems that carried her right into the footsteps of Mr. Sarvis.

Bryn Sarvis The Law Office of Richard J. Breibart, LLC

Bryn was born in the Myrtle Beach area and moved to the Midlands when she was young so her father could attend law school.

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Professional She graduated from Swansea High School, then headed to the upstate to attend Clemson. After graduating with orange, she spent some time in the Southwest gaining business experience, then packed her wool socks and enrolled at St. John’s University of Law where she obtained her law degree in 2006. In 2007, after passing the New York Bar Exam on the first try, she began practicing in the area of employment, general counsel, and labor disputes. In 2008, the winds of home came calling. “My family was here,” she says. Bryn returned to the area to continue growing as an attorney and to enjoy the addition of her nephew to the fold. The transition from New York to South Carolina was smooth, and although there may still be, among a few, the “good ol’ boy” mentality, the South Carolina Bar prides itself on expecting nothing but the best from its members. On the rare occasions that there may be a preconceived notion of a female attorney, it only makes Bryn fight harder. “I can hold my own,” she says. After a couple of years at a local firm, which like her New York experience, focused on school districts and employment, she found herself without as much litigation time as she wanted. That opportunity came in February when she joined The Law Office of Richard J. Breibart, LLC. As the lead civil attorney for the firm, she supervises employment disputes, personal injury, and commercial issues, and almost exclusively practices in civil litigation. It wasn’t only the courtroom time that drew Bryn to the firm. She also found that the firm was very dedicated to the community, something that was very close to her heart.

Working in the community in which she lives is also very important. Breibart, according to Bryn, is very charity minded and “gives back to the community,” another important part of a good fit for her professionally and personally. “Practicing outside of the community was a bit of a let down,” having spent many hours inside the walls of Lexington County courthouses growing up, “it’s like being home again.” Bryn says that she has always loved to write, debate, and solve problems. Maybe it’s the influence from her father, all the years spent at the courthouse as a child, her own sense and compass, or a combination, but each time Bryn enters a courthouse she remembers that someone is relying on her. Someone is looking for a solution. “It’s exciting and strange…sometimes it’s unpredictable…”, she says of her role in the justice system. As a successful woman practicing law, in what a select few may still hold as a good ol’ boy world, Bryn encourages young attorneys to work hard and give back. Lawyers represent people and influence lives, regardless of gender. It’s a very serious commitment to undertake, and Bryn takes it seriously.

photo by Clark Berry Photography

White Knoll High School Baseball Team

Congratulations to the White Knoll High School baseball team for winning the 2010 AAAA State Championship!

Working for the Law Office of Richard J. Breibart, LLC has allowed her to combine her passion for the law and people, while giving back to her community. Bryn Sarvis can be reached at the Law Office of Richard J. Breibart, (803) 7531834 or www.breibartlaw.com. Oh and if she had a dollar for every time someone asked her if it was like we see on television…”It can be like what you see…arguing motions and writing legal briefs.” You know we had to ask! www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

Professional

Tim Mozley, Ductz Total Care by Tyler Ryan

Your Home. Your Office. Your Health.

photos by Grant Digital Media

e learned last month that when we speak of Tim Mozley and Ductz, it’s not a vision of Tim hidden in an early morning blind in Saluda. It’s a franchise, owned by Tim, that focuses on keeping the air ducts, vents, and at times HVAC in working order. Tim owns

Tim points out that keeping your HVAC system working properly goes way beyond simply changing your AC filter. There are many considerations and procedures to ensure that you get the most out of your system, to ensure it lasts longer, and saves money. You will severely decrease the

‘It’s not only Ductz, but it’s Tim Mozley that is in your home...’

Remove stains, allergens and pet odors. Keep the pet! DUCTZ is taking indoor air quality to a whole new level of clean, from the ground up! DUCTZ, the nation’s premier air duct cleaning company, now offers carpet and upholstery cleaning services. Clean, beautify and protect your carpets and upholstery with DUCTZ Total Care. Breathe easy knowing you and yours are protected by the best. DUCTZ Total Care services: • Air Duct Cleaning • Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning

Tim Mozley On the Couch one of the 190 Ductz locations in the country (there are five others here in South Carolina). Tim is very quick to point out that although it is a franchise, it is his company, and that how he treats his customers. “It’s not only Ductz, but it’s Tim Mozley that is in your home…” he says. 26

life of your system, without proper attention, as your system becomes filled with the dust and debris that we often don’t even see in the air. Dust, mold, and allergies can all be affected by your attention to, or lack thereof, your air ducts. Because it has to push thought all that build up, the system itself has to work harder to keep you comfortable. This means our friends at SCE&G will be asking for a little more each time you open the little white envelope. Tim says that a system that should last twenty-five or more years may only last nine or ten years without a little attention. Not to mention the fire safety concerns that can rise as the buildup continues.

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• Dryer Vent Cleaning

Discover the DUCTZ Total Care difference.

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Health & Wellness Another big reason to pay attention to the care of your air system goes beyond replacement or large power bills. It’s you and your family’s health. This time of year brings other considerations when it comes to your air system, whether at home or at work. Because we have no windows open, and are inside more, air quality should become a major concern. As we are cooped up inside more in the fall in winter, the more we are exposed to allergies, and of course germs. Tim is no doctor, but it doesn’t take one to understand the reason why things like the Flu spread quicker in the winter.

Occupational and alternative therapy help change a life

“I

thought I pulled a muscle in my back, or maybe that I had a kidney stone” says Marsha Alverson. “It was the most severe pain I had ever been in, even worse than giving birth to two children.” After a trip to the ER at Lexington Medical Center, and every kind of scan you can imagine, this sixty-one year old wife and mother found herself in the middle of a fight against breast

Even though she knew it would eventually grow back, it was one of the toughest times in her treatment. There is, however, clarity which comes with any hardship in life. Sometimes it’s clarity of thinking or maybe sometimes it is clarity of priorities. With Marsha, it was the clarity of the people who were most important in her

Does this mean that you must take the time and spend the money to have your ducts cleaned every year? No. The National Air Cleaners Association feels that duct cleaning every five to seven years is adequate, and Tim says he “can’t argue with that.” He does point out that other influences, such as pets, living on a dirt road, kids in and out every day may increase the frequency in which you should consider a complete cleaning of your air system. Why would a businessman turn away business from time to time? Tim started a business that allows him to spend time with his family. It’s a strong family value core that guides the way he runs his business. That having been said, his concern for doing the right thing by his customers is more important than a quick buck or two. Some companies, in every industry, may slightly exaggerate the need for service in an effort to generate more business. Tim says that if your house is only a few years old, there really isn’t a reason to have service. When you call him for a free estimate, you will have the peace of mind to know if Tim is recommending service, it’s because you need it. Want a free evaluation from Tim and Ductz? No problem. You can reach him at 803.233.4097 or check out the website, www. Ductz.com. Also, be sure to find out more about Tim, as he joined Tyler On The Couch this month.

It was within the pages of Lexington Woman that she found Hima Dalal of Vital Energy...Marsha began her treatment right away... Hima of Vital Energy (left) with Marsha Alverson cancer. With no family history of breast cancer, she was shocked to learn that it had metastasized in three places on her spine at the time of discovery. Her treatment began almost immediately with twelve rounds of radiology over the next ten days. It was in early September of 2009 that she began seeing Dr. Lal where she began chemo which caused uncontrollable nausea resulting in weight loss of thirty-two pounds within about two months. As she shared her story, she took very special care to mention the amazing treatment she received from Lexington Medical Center by Dr. Lal and his fellow chemo nurses. “It turned my world upside down,” Marsha said. One of the most emotional times over the last year was the loss of her hair after chemo. “It becomes real.” For Marsha, her self-esteem really took a hit with her loss of hair. “As a woman, that was probably the most emotional thing I had to deal with.”

life. Her “rock,” as she refers to chemo, her husband, was able to work from home to be with her. Neighbors would show up with bags of “things you need.” Marsha also realized it was the small things, and gestures, that meant the most. “As horrible as this has been, it has really been a blessing,” Marsha said of the new friends she had discovered, even in the nursing staff that take the time to hug her each time she comes in. It was in the pages of Lexington Woman magazine that she found Hima Dalal of Vital Energy. Within the ad, there was a reference to breast cancer treatment available through Vital Energy. Marsha began her treatment right away and has found great comfort with Reiki treatment and the aqua detox foot spa. After just one treatment of Aqua Detox, Marsha found her feet were smooth. It was within a few days that the burning, “fire in your feet”, which comes from chemo, was continued on next page

www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

Health & Wellness A little over a year after being diagnosed, Marsha is still on oral chemo, a regular patient of Vital Energy’s, an avid reader of Lexington Woman, and stronger than she has ever been. As for her self- image, “I feel much better now that I have hair…” Marsha says with a smile, although she did point out that she found some really cute wigs.

Marsha receiving treatment from Hima at Vital Energy almost gone. Marsha says that working with Dr. Lal combined with her treatments at Vital Energy have become two of her saving graces. Since she began her relationship with Hima, she finds herself more alert, energetic, and having clarity that she hadn’t known for the better part of a year. Part of her treatment separates the tumor tissue from the

Occupational Therapy

soft tissue, which creates a peace on the inside. Her stiffness has given way to more limber joints and less neck and back pain. She can’t say enough about the new friend she has found in Hima, and the impact the treatments have had on her body in its fight. “Even my blood pressure” has been affected with the treatment!

Physical Therapy

Marsha said that when you feel better on the inside, you can feel better on the outside. Her spunk has returned, and thanks to a recipe from her mom that includes which cider vinegar and Hima’s suggestion of rosewater, her overall wellness continues to improve. Marsha always remembers the small things in life. Those are the ones that mean the most. When you are faced with something that some might call catastrophic, in the words of Hima, “Don’t accept it. Overcome it.” Marsha pointed out that once you are feeling better, personally seek out things that will help you. Don’t wait for them to find you. As for the interview, Marsha told me that if her article can help “one person feel better sooner” it’s worth it.

Our goal is to achieve mental and physical wellness through our combination of Complementary/Alternative therapies with traditional Occupational Therapy. OUR SERVICES INCLUDE: • Occupational Therapy • Physical Therapy

Pediatric Therapy

• Sports Physical Therapy

Aquatic Therapy

• Reiki Therapy • Pediatric Therapy • Aqua Therapy

• Fibromyalgia/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome • Chronic/Acute Pain • Migraine Headache Treatment • Yoga/Personal Fitness • Neuro/Ortho Injury Rehab

• Scoliosis Rehab • Myofascial Release Treatment and Craniosacral Therapy • Rheumatoid/Osteoarthritis Therapy • Work Reconditioning Underwater Treadmill

Hima N. Dalal

• TMJ Therapy

Reiki Treatment

Occupational Therapist Reiki and Myofascial Release Consultant Sports Personal Fitness Consultant

• Hand Therapy

www.vitalenergytherapy.com FM/CFS Support Group Meets Monthly

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803.359.1551

163 Charter Oak Road Lexington, SC 29072

Health & Wellness

Oral cancer

Fitness Tips for

by Jennifer Hutchinson, RDH

W to mind.

Fall!

Enjoy the year’s most comfortable season

Get outside and take in the scenery while doing something fun. Ride your bike, take a walk, hike, or jog – anything to get outside. Take advantage of this cool weather. We’ve waited a long time for it!

hen people think of cancer, oral cancer is usually not what comes

The best way to fight cancer is to be informed so that you can avoid risk factors and know the symptoms for early detection. Tobacco products, alcohol use, and Human Papilloma Virus version 16 or HPV-16 are some major contributors to Oral and Oropharyngeal Cancer, as well as the sun and ultraviolet light. So if you work outside or have to be in the sun often be sure to wear a lip balm with sunscreen, the lower lip can be a common place for cancer to develop. At every dental hygiene appointment at Palmetto Comprehensive Dentistry, we do an oral cancer screening. We check the sides of the tongue, floor of the mouth, cheeks, and throat for abnormalities. You can also be on the lookout at home. If you notice sores or lesions that don’t heal within two weeks, red or white spots or patches, swelling, hard lymph nodes, numbness, difficulty swallowing, or spots on the outside of your lips contact your dentist and get an appointment right away. It may be

Fall back into shape!

photo by Clark Berry Photography

Jennifer Hutchinson, RDH nothing but peace of mind is better than not knowing for sure. Oral Cancer caught in an early stage has a high survival rate. Even if you have dentures you should still be seen at least every 6 months for a dental exam. Though you may not have “teeth” you still have tissue in the mouth that can develop cancer. Be informed, be seen by your dentist often, and ask questions. Together we will fight Oral Cancer.

With so much going on during the summer, it’s easy to lose touch with exercising. Since the kids have returned to school, take this time to get back into shape. It doesn’t have to take a lot of time. Just a half hour of walking around the neighborhood or riding a bike will pay off.

Have an apple a day...

Autumn is a great time for harvesting fruit, which results in delicious apples! We should be getting at least four to five servings of fruit and vegetables a day, so pick up some apples from the grocery store or produce stand, and have an apple a day!

Dr. Steven J. Hutchinson, DMD Jennifer P. Hutchinson, RDH Cosmetic | Restorative | Preventive

(803) 359-0566 209 West Main Street | Lexington, South Carolina 29072

Now Accepting New Patients www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

Health & Wellness

Community profile of Shirley Keels, Columbia Women’s Healthcare by Lori Samples Duncan

photo by Grant Digital Media

“T

he key to being a successful leader is getting others around you involved, letting them know their efforts are important.” The words of Shirley Keels. As someone who has worked as the Administrator of Columbia Women’s Healthcare since it’s inception in 1998, she knows a thing or two about leading people. From the moment I met Shirley three years ago, I was impressed by this petite, southern lady. She was smart and shrewd. After I knew her for about twelve months, I tried to convince her to allow us to feature her in Lexington Woman magazine. She would not hear of it. She protested that she would not make an interesting subject. I disagreed strongly. The whole idea behind featuring real women is exactly what made Shirley perfect for us to feature. She strives to go above and beyond what is required of her and takes special care to support those she leads. Even with twenty-five years in the health care industry in Columbia, she maintains her focus. “I am behind the scenes,” she says, “I help everything flow in a manner that is pleasing to our doctors and patients.” In her role “behind the scenes” at Columbia Women’s Healthcare, Ms. Shirley, as she is called at work, has supervisors (coordinators) for each department. She serves as a “conductor” you might say. She reminds me of what I have often heard women in the South called, “A Steel Magnolia.” I never hang up the phone from speaking with Ms. Shirley that I don’t pause for a moment to smile.

Many of the patients know her by name at the practice, located at 1301 Taylor Street, and I have had the pleasure of listening to Shirley recount the kind words of a patient who has taken the time to write a letter or come by and see her to share how one of the Physicians or members of the staff saved or changed a life on more than one occasion. It is the compassion and determination that she gives to fulfilling her role with Columbia Women’s Healthcare that I feel make a difference between those doctor’s offices that you don’t mind visiting and the ones that seem cold and lonely. Ms. Shirley says that she has little time for hobbies. Since the passing of her husband in 2001, she has thrown herself into her work, because she “enjoys it so much.” But it isn’t all work and no play, between her two sons, and her grandchildren, she makes sure there is family time. She and her daughter-in law (she likes to call her daughter-in love) have a close relationship and enjoy shopping and eating at different restaurants – you know the ones with good wine! She is also a very proud grandmother. Her grandson is attending Spartanburg Methodist College on a baseball scholarship and her granddaughter, who works part-time at SC Clinical Research, is a Furman graduate and is attending graduate school at University of South Carolina. Ms. Shirley herself is a Carolina fan as are her entire family. She is an avid reader, even reads cookbooks sometimes! John Grisham’s books are her favorites.

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating Real Women

My mother always told me that to be a real lady one must be a lady on the inside as well as the outside. Ms. Shirley is always impeccably dressed. Her fall fashion, when we sat down together at Travinia’s in Lexington, was accented by a mischievous twinkle in her bright eyes. With the careful attention to the details of her hair right down to her heels, it isn’t hard to see why she runs her office with the same dedication and organization. She believes in the words of President Ronald Reagan, “It’s amazing what you can accomplish when you don’t care who gets the credit.” Lexington Woman salutes Ms. Shirley Keels for our community profile! Columbia Women’s Health Care is not only an OB/GYN office; they are also a medical research facility. This side of the practice (SC Clinic Research) is dedicated to studies and clinical trials that help with many issues that women may be facing as the needs of their lives change. Contact them for more information on how to be part of a current study.

columbiawhc.com, (803) 254-3230

Want to nominate someone? If you know someone who gives 100% in their career, please email us about them for consideration in the next issue of Lexington Woman.

Craving quality care? Take care of that craving and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll take care of you.

tending to the unique nature of women 1301 Taylor Street, Suite 6-J, Columbia, SC 29201

803-254-3230 columbiawhc.com

www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

Health & Wellness

Playground safety

by Stephanie Schaller, Midlands Orthopaedics, PA

ummer has flown by and school is now in full swing, and children are looking forward to their favorite part of the day: recess out on the playground. And while the playground may be a great place for kids to have fun, get some exercise and spend time with their friends, it can also be one of the most dangerous places at school. Each year in the US more than 156,000 children are treated in the emergency room for playground-related injuries according to the Center for Disease Control. Approximately 79 percent of these injuries are fall related, which can lead to arm fractures and possibly surgery. As children race for the playground, let’s keep them happy and safe by observing the following safety guidelines recommended by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.

Close Supervision:

Close supervision by a responsible adult is the most important factor in preventing playground injuries. An adult is needed to ensure that children are using playground equipment correctly, to enforce playground rules, and to give first aid if accidents due indeed happen. When supervising children make sure you have a clear sightline on all equipment.

Playground Rules:

Although adult supervision is extremely important, children should learn how to act responsibly on the playground. General rules to teach your kids are: • Use Equipment as they were intended. Do not stand on swings etc… • Never push or roughhouse while on jungle gyms, slides, seesaws, swings, and other equipment • If you jump off of equipment, look first to make sure no one is in the way and land on both feet with knees slightly bent • Do not wear clothing with drawstrings which could cause entanglement this includes purses and necklaces • Playground equipment should never be used if it is wet because moisture causes the surface to be slippery. 32

Playground Inspection:

Playground equipment should be inspected regularly to identify any loosening of equipment connections, rust or corrosion, deterioration from use, rot, insects, or weathering. Any problem areas should be reported to an official.

...while the playground may be a great place for kids to have fun, get some exercise and spend time with their friends, it can also be one of the most dangerous places at school.

Playground Surfaces:

The severity and number of injuries are determined by the playground surface. Woodchips, mulch, sand or shredded rubber are the recommended surfaces for playground equipment that is over seven feet high. Avoid playgrounds that have concrete, asphalt, hard packed soil or grass. No surfacing materials are considered safe if the combined height of equipment and the child (standing on the highest platform) is higher than 12 feet.

Utilize Age Appropriate Equipment:

Children at different ages have different needs and abilities; therefore, they should be steered towards age appropriate equipment on the playground. Toddlers (under two years of age): • Climbing equipment under 32 inches high • Ramps • Single file step ladders • Spiral slides less than 360 degrees • Swings with full bucket seats

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Preschool (2-5 years of age): • Merry go rounds • Rung Ladders • Spring Rockers • Swings with bucket seat or with a belt School Age (5-12 years of age): • Arch Climbers • Chain or Cable Walkers • See Saws • Track rides • Vertical sliding poles • Overhead rings • Slides

Recognize unsafe playground equipment:

Certain equipment has been found to be unsafe to be used in public playgrounds. Avoid playgrounds that have animal figure swings, glider swings that hold more than one child at a time, equipment containing ropes that are not permanently attached at both ends, exercise rings, monkey bars, and trampolines. Playgrounds are a great place for children to master gross motor skills, burn off steam, socialize, stay fit, and learn about the world around them. By following these recommendations you can decrease your child’s chances of getting hurt and ensure that the playground stays a happy fun place to be a kid. For additional resources about playground safety go to: • American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic. cfm?topic=A00313 • Handbook for Public Playground Safety http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/pubs/325.pdf • KidsHealth for Parents (Nemours Foundation) http://kidshealth.org/parent/firstaid_safe/ outdoor/playground.html

Wipeout!

nfortunately, kids don’t come with training wheels. So when your kids experience life’s little ups … and downs, Midlands Orthopaedics, P.A. stands ready to put them back on track.

We know that free time and warmer weather usually means increased activity for your family. That’s why our team of specialized physicians is prepared to repair the bumps and breaks that dampen outdoor fun. At Midlands Orthopaedics, P.A., our highly trained specialists provide comprehensive care for the entire family, including the little ones. Trust your family’s orthopaedic health to our family of caring physicians at Midlands Orthopaedics.

Ortho PM & Saturday Hours* Monday – Friday, 5:00pm – 7:00pm Saturday, 8:30am–10:30am *Some insurance restrictions may apply.

www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

Health & Wellness

Chiropractic and kids by Dr. Shane Conner

hiropractic care for adults is wellknown, but parents often forget to recognize that the same benefits apply to their children. Many of the complaints that adults have when they come into our office stem from childhood. The body is an amazing machine, but mechanical stresses or imbalances can occur as early as birth. Medically assisted deliveries such as mechanical extractions, forceps and suction devices can cause severe problems from too much force being applied to the infant’s neck. Problems often found in children include: • Infantile Colic • Ear Infections • Headaches • Attention Deficit Disorder • Hyperactivity • Bed-Wetting • Lowered Immune Response • Scoliosis Developmental problems can also occur as the child grows older. These problems can be caused by imbalanced feeding positions, imbalanced head positions in car seats, falls while learning to walk, and poor postural habits from backpacks that are too heavy. These are all stresses that can silently build

Many of the complaints that adults have when they come into our office stem from childhood. in joints of the spine; causing poor spinal muscle stability and decreased nervous system communication. The nervous system is the master control of your body. Chiropractic care can be a natural management option for kids suffering from such common conditions as otitis media (middle ear infections), infantile colic, asthma, ADHD, scoliosis, and headaches. Otitis media is the clinical term for middle ear infections which is commonly recognized by the child tugging on the ear, poor sleep, irritability, fever, and ear and nasal drainage. There is evidence that suggests spinal misalignments in the cervical spine (neck) may affect the angle of the Eustachian tube, which prevents the ear from draining fluid in the middle ear. Chiropractic adjustments can alleviate these spinal misalignments and restore proper

drainage of the Eustachian tube. By restoring proper nerve flow and communication to the middle ear, the drainage system works more efficiently, the way it was intended. Infantile colic is explained as uncontrollable crying in infants 0-3 months for more than 3 hours per day and more than 3 days per week. Additional symptoms of colic include pulling the knees to the chest, clenched fists, and extension of the trunk or extremities. Several studies on chiropractic intervention prove promising results indicating a reduction in crying and other symptoms. This contrasts sharply with medical intervention, which may include over-the-counter drugs, prescription drugs, or simply “waiting it out” because the condition can be extremely frustrating to the parents. The possibility

CHIROPRACTIC KIDS HAVE AN UNFAIR ADVANTAGE Call Dr. Conner to schedule a free consultation for your child!

359-CARE (2273)

Certified in Decompression Therapy 34

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating Real Women

716 Old Cherokee Road • Lexington, SC

Health & Wellness of reducing the duration of colic is important to the parent/child relationship. Headaches are generally considered to be an adult problem, but are also extremely common in children. Poor posture, increased computer usage, prolonged video game playing, and heavy backpacks can cause increased stress on the neck and upper back and cause tension headaches and migraines. Chiropractic adjustments correct the mechanical cause by restoring proper joint motion, blood flow, and muscle symmetry in the neck and upper back, which relieves the headache triggers. Spinal adjustments are gentle and safe for children of all ages. The type of adjustment needed will be determined by your chiropractor based on the age and size of your child. Sometimes the doctor will use his hands to give the bones a gentle push or pull; sometimes little tools will be used to tap the bones in just the right way. These adjustments are painless and many children will start enjoying the positive results from chiropractic care in a couple of weeks. Occasionally it will take a little longer because every child is different, but kids normally get well much faster than adults. Chiropractic is a simple idea that has produced excellent results without drugs or surgery for over 100 years. The safety and effectiveness of chiropractic care makes it the most popular form of natural health care in the world. Doctors of chiropractic have received extensive training in musculo-skeletal disorders at a 4-year, post-undergraduate, nationally accredited chiropractic school. We are also well-educated on the importance and benefit of diet, exercise, and vitamin supplementation on our overall health and wellness. We believe in the magnificent power of the body and we want all of our patients, young and old, to experience a healthy and vivacious lifestyle.

Good habits start early by Dr. Melissa Backman

id you know that tooth decay is the most common chronic childhood disease that will not resolve without treatment? It is five times more common than asthma. As a dentist, nothing is more heartbreaking than to see a two year old child lose their four front teeth to baby bottle decay. Even before the baby is born, there are important steps a mother can take to help protect her child’s teeth. Teeth begin to form in the second month of pregnancy. A balanced diet containing vitamins, protein, calcium, and phosphorous will help the baby develop healthy teeth. Poor nutrition can lead to poorly developed enamel making a child more prone to cavities. Baby teeth are important for chewing, speaking, and appearance. They also help hold the space in the jaws for the permanent teeth. As soon as the first tooth appears in the mouth, decay can occur. Even before your child has teeth, you should begin wiping the baby’s gums with a clean washcloth after every feeding. This removes the plaque and the residual food that can cause decay. One of the major risk factors for early childhood cavities is frequent and prolonged exposure of a baby’s teeth to liquids containing sugar, such as sweetened water, fruit juice, and milk (breast milk and formula).

Once the first tooth has erupted, you can begin cleaning with a soft toothbrush.

As a dentist, nothing is more heartbreaking than to see a two year old child lose their four front teeth to baby bottle decay. Also, the bacteria that cause cavities can be transmitted from mother to child. Always rinse pacifiers with water, not with your own mouth to prevent passing the bacteria to your child. Don’t feed your child with the same spoon that has been in your mouth. Here are some steps to help your child maintain a beautiful smile for a lifetime.

Brushing and Flossing:

Brush for two minutes twice a day and floss once a day. Children tend to rush through brushing. It may help to place a timer in the continued on page 37

photo by Cathy Lindner

Sandra Mota, Brittney Miles, Regina Jackson, Faye Mellette, and Dr. Melissa Backman www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

Here’s what women are saying about Vital Energy Fitness! So I’m about a year and a half away from 40 and look in the mirror one day and wonder, “How did this happen???” Well, of course, I know how it happened; I just didn’t like it. I decided I had to finally get back to being healthy again. Two kids, full-time job, volunteer work, etc., etc., etc. had left no time to take care of me. My sister and I found Vital Energy Fitness, with the fabulous Sneh-Neh as we call her, through Lexington Woman magazine and it has been a wonderful ride ever since. We started in December 2009 and lost a little weight with working out with Sneh three times per week (and two to three days per week on my own), but it was not until February when Sneh changed my diet that the weight began to melt off. I have lost 37 pounds and four pants sizes in 6 months. It really has been easy and very rewarding. I love how I feel and am getting closer and closer to my goal every day. I could not have done this without Sneh’s guidance and my sister’s (family too) support. My endurance and stamina have increased exponentially and my energy level is back to what it was in my 20’s. Sneh is not only my trainer, but she has become a great friend as well. — Katie Schopp (Lexington Woman Reader)

Exercise has been a significant part of my life for the last 20 yrs. When extreme back and neck pain sidetracked my active lifestyle, I feared that my fitness passion would have to be forfeited. Fortunately, I found Vital Energy Therapy and was treated for my back and neck pain. At the appropriate time, I was eased back into a carefully monitored program with Sneh at Vital Energy Fitness. Sneh has created a fitness program that is tailored to my current limitations yet challenging enough for my athletic lifestyle. I am thankful that as a trainer Sneh can understand her clients health needs and gently push their abilities without “undoing” the process of progress. I always leave my training sessions feeling stronger and healthier and yes happy because my active lifestyle is back!

— Gale Norris

www.vitalenergyfitness.com Sneh Patel, Exercise Physiologist (803) 467-4217

163 B Charter Oak Road • Lexington, SC 29072 Email: vitalenergyfitness@gmail.com Weight Loss • Personal Training • Bariatric Fitness • Geriatric Fitness • Toning • Nutritional Consulting • Ayurvedic Diet Motivating and Educating 36 Celebrating, Facials • Massage • MaleReal andWomen Female Personal Trainers • Under Water Treadmill • Aqua Detox

Health & Wellness

Dentistry for the Whole Family! Children are welcome! (ages 1 and up)

www.whiteknolldentistry.com

Call us at

(803) 359-3245 today for an appointment

5545 Platt Springs Road Lexington, SC 29073

bathroom or have them brush for the length of a song. Once your child has two teeth that touch it is time to start flossing.

Limit frequency of snacks and drinks.

Every time sugar is consumed, the bacteria in your mouth produce acid that attacks your teeth. Tooth decay occurs after frequent, repeated acid attacks.

Offer drinks containing sugar (juice, milk, etc.) only during meal times.

Dr. Melissa Backman

The saliva that is produced while you are eating helps neutralize the acid. Begin encouraging your child to drink from a cup by the first birthday. Between meals give your child water in a cup.

New Patients Welcome!

Be careful when choosing a training cup (also called sippy cups).

Most of these cups are “no spill” cups, which means they contain a valve beneath the spout that stops spills. However, these cups are not much different than a baby bottle.

The valves do not allow your child to sip, so the only way to get liquid from the cup is to suck just like with a baby bottle. The valves do not allow your child to sip, so the only way to get liquid from the cup is to suck just like with a baby bottle. Try to avoid a training cup with a no-spill valve. Look for a training cup with a snap-on or screw-on lid with a spout. A cup with two handles will also be helpful.

Visit your dentist at least twice a year.

The American Pediatric Dental Association recommends that a child have their first visit to the dentist by their first birthday.

“Autumn, the year’s last and loveliest smile.”

“Every leaf speaks bliss to me, fluttering from the autumn tree.”

“Autumn is the hush before winter.”

– William Cullen Bryant

– Emily Bronte

– French Proverb www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

L e x i n g t o n Wo m a n c e l e b r a t e s t h e s u r v i vo r i n yo u

You can be a Survivor by Lori Samples Duncan

s a little girl I learned the power of a story. I remember my favorite book was Marvin K. Mooney by Dr. Seuss. My mother read it better than anyone else. I loved it. I knew all the words by heart and I can still remember sitting on her lap as a child and listening to the inflection and intonation of her voice. It still makes me smile. As an adult, I have read that same book to my children. As a matter of fact, my sister bought me a new copy several years ago. It was my favorite Christmas gift that year. Just to see the cover brought back the feeling of those happy times at mother’s feet. That is what the Survivor section of Lexington Woman is all about. We want you to be able to read the story and smile. Read the story and know that you are a survivor. I have read many emails from women whose lives have changed because of the women who have been willing to open up old wounds and talk to us about their lives.

In April of this year my aunt was diagnosed with stage 3 invasive breast cancer. She wanted to hide. She was grieving for the things she thought she would never experience and for the life she dreamed of cancer free. She didn’t want to talk about it or share. That’s ok, her disease her choice. I sent her a note and copies of Lexington Woman. I told her about the women I know in this city who have beat cancer! I shared your stories with her. Today I am happy to report that she has finished chemo and is in the process of scheduling her surgery. For her, the women in the Survivor section of Lexington Woman are heroes. They changed the face of cancer for her because they shared their stories. She took little jewels from each of their story and is weaving her own. Her doctors are amazed at her progress and she is a light to every person she encounters who has cancer as well.

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See what you started? Just by touching one life, you have touched so many others. I appreciate each woman in these pages. They make me want to live like I am dying. I have gleaned more wisdom from these women than in college. The quality of my life is better for knowing each of them. They give me hope for every woman that I know and love who might one day face this challenge. If you know one of these women, or if you read this and it touches you, email us and tell us your story. We want to share it with other readers as well. “Man can live about forty days without food, about three days without water, about eight minutes without air, but only for one second without hope.” — Hal Lindsey

Celebrating the

Survivor in You!

The Dems Gems: Mrs. Livingston, Sylvia, Lia and Suzy by Mandy Rivers and Amanda Ballew

ne in eight American women will be diagnosed with breast cancer. The numbers are staggering, but, thanks to awareness and prevention efforts, most of us are relatively familiar with these numbers. What you’re likely not familiar with is a story about another number – the number four. Four is the number of times breast cancer has struck the small staff at Dems Fine Jewelers in Irmo. Four is the number of women who have been faced with options such as

Mrs. L, she was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1968 at the age of 48. After undergoing a radical mastectomy that would leave her body forever altered, Mrs. L carried on with her life as a cherished mother and wife. Not even a second diagnosis of breast cancer 27 years later would cause her faith in God or her zest for life to waver. In November of 2009, fifteen years after her second diagnosis, Mrs. L slipped quietly away from us at the age of 89. It wasn’t breast cancer that took her… it was simply her time to join her

my breasts I can live without. So I count what I do have, not what I don’t have. –Louise K. Livingston, 1920-2009

Chapter 2 of our story brings us to Sylvia’s journey…

It was in September of 2001 that I first found out that I had breast cancer. In fact, my first appointment with the oncologist was on September 11, 2001! While I was faced with a devastating diagnosis and an uncertain future, my problems seemed to pale in compari-

Four is the number of women united together in a sisterhood that would help carry them on their courageous journey. Four is the number of warriors!

son to the devastation and loss suffered by our nation on that tragic day. 9/11 helped keep me in line with my problems and offered a strong perspective on what I was dealing with in my own life.

Lia, Sylvia, and Suzy with a photo of BJ & Louise Livingston chemotherapy, radiation, mastectomy or lumpectomy. Four is the number of words spoken to these women …“You have breast cancer.” Four is the number of women united together in a sisterhood that would help carry them on their courageous journey. Four is the number of warriors! Mrs. L… Sylvia… Lia… Suzy… Their story begins with the store’s matriarch, Louise Livingston. Affectionately known as

beloved Barney. It was her miraculous story of survival and her unwavering faith and the beauty of life that would become the cornerstone for the legacy of survival at Dems. It can be summed up pretty well in her following quote: When that part of me was taken, it made sense. If it were my arms, how would I hold my loved ones? If it were my legs, how would I run after my child? If it were my eyes, how would I see the beauty that surrounds me? But

When I was diagnosed, my husband, Steve, and I were living at the lake with his mother, Mrs. Livingston, while our house was being built. Being a two-time breast cancer survivor, she was a great comfort and a great support for me at the time… a great inspiration of how you can move on after breast cancer and live a very productive life. Perhaps it was part of a greater plan. Perhaps the road map of my life had been laid out in front of me simply waiting for me to take each next step. How could I have ever known that my mother-in-law, Mrs. L, would be my source of comfort, knowledge and continued on next page

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Celebrating the

Survivor in You! From young to old, traditional to eccentric, outspoken to reserved and artistic to pragmatic the ladies couldn’t have a better nickname: The Dems Gems. Picture Steel Magnolias meets Sex in the City then goes shopping with Designing Women. Suzy, Lia, and Sylvia

understanding during some of my darkest hours? Her experience with breast cancer showed me that life will go on. How could I have known that my journey was only the second part of the Dems story? God has a great way of placing people in our lives at the right time and place. My strength comes from my family, friends and faith. “No matter how steep the mountain, the Lord is going to climb it with you.” is a favorite quote by Helen Steiner Rice.

Chapter 3: Lia’s story…

It has been said that “Two is company, but three is a crowd.” Who knew that I would be the one to make it a crowd? My story begins in June of 2007. It was during a trip to Myrtle Beach when I first felt the lump in my armpit. I froze… I panicked… I felt again, but it was still there. My mammogram three months earlier revealed nothing, so surely this was a mistake. There was no mistake. Despite being a healthy and active 53 years old, I was diagnosed with Stage 3 breast cancer. There was no time for this; not with my daughter getting married the following spring.

I should have been spending all my time running from flower shop to flower shop and dress boutique to dress boutique. As it were, my days were consumed with running from doctor to doctor and from test to test. I prayed I would be here in the spring. I learned how to lean on my family and on my friends for strength. I was so used to being the rock in my family that I sometimes found it hard to let go, to show any weakness. At Dems, they knew better… a hug from Sylvia and a pat on the arm from Mrs. L told me that they understood. Sitting and chatting with Mrs. L while she strung pearls was therapeutic for me. My family, my friends and my work had become MY rock. After 5 months of chemotherapy, a double mastectomy and reconstructive surgery, I was able to dance until the wee hours of the morning at my daughter’s wedding surrounded by all my friends and family who had given me the strength to get on with life. I’ve now been in remission for three years. I watched my daughter marry and I have learned that I will be Yia-Yia this coming winter! I have traveled to Greece and to England and have been reminded of all the won-

ders that life has to offer. It was coming home from a trip to Greece that I learned that the next part of my journey of survival would be the beginning of the fourth (and hopefully final) chapter of the Dems story. Landing in Charlotte and excited to let everyone know I was home, I had no idea that turning my cell phone on would mean finding out that my coworker, my friend was to be the next chapter.

Chapter 4: Suzy’s story…

Well, if three’s a crowd, then four has GOT to be a party, but who invited me to this particular party? Suzy, Suzy Sunshine, Suzy Q, Sue, Red, Sweetie, Mama, Nana… I have many names and love them all, but the name that I fought the hardest for, the name that means I can continue being ME is Breast Cancer Survivor. But, how did I get here? How did September of 2009 become the date that I would use to mark my survival anniversary? I thought the statistics said 1 in 8? My diagnosis brought Dems’ number to 4 in 9! Shouldn’t it have happened to someone else? Someone older? Someone less healthy, maybe? Couldn’t it have been someone that, well, had more time on their hands? I didn’t have time for a lumpectomy, chemo-

“Fiery colors begin their yearly conquest of the hills, propelled by the autumn winds. Fall is the artist.”

“Autumn is the mellower season, and what we lose in flowers we more than gain in fruits.”

– Takayuki Ikkaku

– Samuel Butler

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating Real Women

Celebrating the therapy or radiation… I had a new grandson and the holiday season was starting at Dems! But, then, who else COULD it have been? This was my burden to bear, but I knew I wouldn’t have to bear it alone. I had my cornerstone, Mrs. L, and also Sylvia and Lia to guide me through a fog that would become my life. Is it true that the fog is most dense just before the dawn? It must be because two months after my diagnosis we lost our beloved Mrs. L, the cornerstone of survival at Dems. A month later my father passed away after a short battle with cancer. There was no time to grieve. I couldn’t crawl under a rock and feel pity for myself. Somehow, I kept going and, you know, that fog started to clear! My scars are healing, my diagnosis is good, my red hair is coming back (a bit curly but I’ll take it) and my eyes and heart are WIDE open to see all the beauty around me thanks to the support from my amazing friends and loving family. I am now celebrating my one year anniversary of being cancer free! Though I still try to use “chemo brain” as an excuse for, well, everything, life is looking pretty darn good! The fog in my life became so dense that I couldn’t see clearly, but the beauty of the sun breaking through that fog has been breathtaking and has renewed my faith in God. I would like to think that my story is the final chapter for The Dems Gems, but I know that, if the story must continue, we’ll all be there for one another. We laugh together, we cry together, we eat until we are sick together, and we travel together… We Are Family. Knowing that Mrs. L is up there looking out for us is just further proof that ours isn’t a story of sadness; it’s a story of courage, faith, joy, and survival. Their personalities differ as greatly as the spectrum of gemstones they sell. From young to old, traditional to eccentric, outspoken to reserved and artistic to pragmatic the ladies couldn’t have a better nickname: The Dems Gems. Picture Steel Magno-

Survivor in You!

lias meets Sex in the City then goes shopping with Designing Women. Tough as the cancer has been, they have been tougher. “Team Dems” is four for four and going strong. Choosing not to focus on the ugly aspects of the disease and treatment, they pour their energy into awareness in their energetic, creative and unique spirit that makes The Dems Gems sparkle brighter than ever before. Dems Fine Jewelers believes in giving back to the community that has been so kind to them. You, too, can help by visiting Dems Jewelers in Irmo where they offer The Pink Posse Bead Collection, an array of beautiful custom designed beads. These beads honor and celebrate 24 women in our community who are breast cancer survivors. There are also beautiful beads to honor and celebrate The Ta-tinis and SCOA Cares Foundation. Ask about the art work, “Butterflies for Life” by Wendy Jeffcoat. She is Dems talented jeweler. “Butterflies for Life” is available as a print and set of note cards. For a collection of taste tempting recipes, pick up a copy of The Dems Gems cookbook, “From Our Table to Yours”. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of all of these will go to Palmetto Health Breast Center, SCOA Cares Foundation or Lexington Medical Center Foundation. Buy a Bead, Build a Bracelet… Together We Can Make a Difference!

Culinary Cards for Cancer This article is brought to you by Dems Fine Jewelers. Visit www.demsjewelers. com, call (803) 407-5290, or see their ad on this page.

Thanks to all of our readers and sponsors who came out to support this event. Be sure to check out our next issue for coverage and photos from the 2010 Culinary Cards for Cancer event!

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Celebrating the

Survivor in You!

On the Couch with Sandy Boozer by Tyler Ryan

ccording to government statistics, twenty-one thousand, eight hundred and eighty woman will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer this year. Almost fourteen thousand will die. The number, nearly seventy percent is frighteningly high, but it can be reduced, if it is caught early. Sandy Boozer from the South Carolina Ovarian Cancer Foundation says that catch-

the South Carolina Ovarian Cancer Foundation. “Our mission is to get this life saving information out to as many woman as possible,” according to Sandy. Sandy points out that another challenge for the diagnosis of ovarian cancer is the lack of a test. There isn’t one. Although it is a common believe that a pap smear will accurately indicate the presence of ovarian cancer, it’s only cervical cancer that can be discovered by the procedure.

have been touched by ovarian cancer gather for fellowship. As part of the event, the namesake reveals itself, with the release of five hundred butterflies, celebrating those who have lost the battle, and those currently fighting. The butterflies are sponsored and released in the names of those loved ones. Another important outreach program at the foundation is called Survivors Teaching Stu-

The symptoms are referred to as ‘whisperings’... Often women think that they are having simply stomach or abdominal pain, back pain, and changes in cycles...

photo by Grant Digital Media

Sandy Boozer talks to Tyler Ryan. See more of On The Couch online. ing ovarian cancer early is not as easy as one might think. The symptoms are referred to as “whisperings,” according to Sandy. Often women think that they are having simply stomach or abdominal pain, back pain, and changes in cycles, which don’t automatically send up a red flag that something is wrong. Fatigue is another whisper, which often goes ignored, because women who don’t have ovarian cancer also have these symptoms. There isn’t any self exam that can be administered, which also allows the cancer to hide behind what is seemingly routine aches and pains. Sadly, by the time that a woman who has been experiencing some of these symptoms finally sees a doctor, the cancer is in stage three or four, and according to Sandy, at that stage, “a lot of people do not survive it.” Sandy advises that if you have symptoms more than two weeks, it’s time to see your doctor. The awareness and education is the goal of 42

The only way that doctors can detect ovarian cancer is through an ultrasound. Sandy says that if not detected early, woman can have a tumor the size of a grapefruit, and in some cases, a “volleyball” size growth, which has to be removed, followed by chemo. There is good news, however, is that if discovered early, that is in stage one or two, there is a ninety-five percent chance of survival. Discovery in stage three, drops the chance of survival to twenty-five percent for a five year survival rate. It’s this staggering drop that drives the Foundation to encourage women to know their bodies, and spread the message of awareness. “It will save your life.” The foundation spreads the message through printed education material, and events like the butterfly event. The butterfly event is held at the Statehouse, in which folks who

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating Real Women

dents. In this program, survivors meet with students who are nearing the end of their tenure at the USC School of medicine, and educate the new doctors on signs and symptoms that could be missed when attempting to diagnose ovarian cancer. Because the South Carolina Ovarian Cancer Foundation is privately funded, they also do fun events, like the spring fashion show. The who’s who of town all gather, and take to the runway for a night of fashion, fun, awareness, and fund raising. On the Foundation’s website, www.scovariancancer.org, you will find many resources for information about ovarian cancer, ways that you can help spread the word, a support system, and information about their new program, Every Step Counts. The bottom line is early detection. Sandy Boozer says the key is to “Recognize the signs, know your body, and see your doctor.”

Who gets All women are at risk for ovarian cancer.

OV AR I

• Ovarian cancer occurs in approximately one in 72 women.

• Ovarian cancer is one of the ﬁve leading causes of cancer death in American women.

• A Pap smear is not a test for ovarian cancer. It detects cervical cancer.

Some are at higher risk.

R? NCE CA

• A woman’s chance of survival is better if the cancer is found early.

• Women with a family or personal history of ovarian, breast or colon cancer • Post-menopausal women • Women who have never been pregnant or given birth

Symptoms include: • Abdominal pressure • Bloating and discomfort • Unusual fatigue • Shortness of breath • Unexplained weight ﬂuctuation • Constant feeling of fullness

Talk to your doctor or visit our web site for more information

www.scOvarianCancer.org

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Celebrating the

Survivor in You!

Navigating breast cancer with a unique perspective by Jennifer Wilson, Lexington Medical Center

nside Lexington Medical Center, Kelly Jeffcoat knows breast cancer well. She works as a breast cancer nurse navigator at the hospital’s Women’s Imaging Center. In that position, she serves as the liaison between patients and all other members of the health care team, and educates patients and family members about breast cancer.

...Kelly brings an extra level of care that’s unique to her. Not because of her years of experience as an oncology nurse. Not because of her expert knowledge of the disease. Instead, it’s because Kelly is a breast cancer survivor herself.

But Kelly brings an extra level of care that’s unique to her. Not because of her years of experience as an oncology nurse. Not because of her expert knowledge of the disease. Instead, it’s because Kelly is a breast cancer survivor herself. “I would have loved this job regardless. But being diagnosed with breast cancer changed everything,” she said. Kelly was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2001 at the age of 37 after finding a lump. She endured eight months of treatment including a lumpectomy, chemotherapy and radiation. There was no history of breast cancer in her family. Ironically, for years before her diagnosis, Kelly had worked with cancer patients at Lexington Medical Center. Even more ironically, she received her breast cancer diagnosis just six weeks after beginning her work as a breast cancer nurse navigator. “For my first year on the job, I was going through treatments with my patients,” she said. Today she is cancer free. When she tells patients her story, it gives them hope. “If I can do it, you can do it,” she says. Kelly Jeffcoat is one component of a comprehensive breast program at Lexington Medical Center that’s earning national recognition. This year, Lexington Medical Center re44

Kelly Jeffcoat

ceived a prestigious accreditation from the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC). The organization praised Lexington Medical Center for its commitment to providing the highest quality evaluation and management of patients with breast disease. Lexington Medical Center’s breast program is also accredited by the American College of Radiology (ACR). Lexington Medical Center has four Women’s Imaging Centers and a state-of-the-art digital mobile mammography van that travels throughout the Midlands. So far this year, Lexington Medical Center has diagnosed and treated more than 250 cases of breast cancer. Through an innovative program known as “Five Day Detection to Diagnosis,” Lexington Medical Center provides answers about the health of a woman’s breast within five days after detection of a lump or abnormality. Lexington Medical Center works closely with women and their families throughout cancer treatment. “Becky’s Place” is a bou-

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating Real Women

tique located inside the hospital that offers wigs, mastectomy bras and prostheses. Lexington Medical Center also works to educate women in the community about breast cancer screening. Women should begin annual mammograms at age 40. They should have a baseline mammogram at age 35. If you have a first-degree relative who has been diagnosed with breast cancer, screening should begin 10 years before your relative was diagnosed. For example, if your mother was diagnosed at age 37, you should begin screening at age 27. This year, Kelly Jeffcoat is receiving a special distinction. She is one of 24 Midlands breast cancer survivors honored with a bead custom-designed by Dems Jewelers. The beads, called “The Pink Posse 2010 Beads,” represent each woman’s fight against breast cancer. Kelly’s bead is called “The Ripple Effect.” The blue and gold bead shows waves and the description states, “Each deep blue wave

Celebrating the ‘pays it forward’ with encouragement and hope.” The design and name reflect Kelly’s job as a breast cancer nurse navigator – using her experience as a breast cancer survivor to help her patients.

Tips for

Fall!

Projects with the kids

Autumn is the perfect time to have arts and crafts time with your children. Find pumpkins to carve, and let your kids help you decorate for Halloween.

A portion of the proceeds from the beads will go to the Lexington Medical Center Foundation’s Cancer Care Fund, designed to help cancer patients in need.

Dress your front porch

Back at Lexington Medical Center, Kelly says she wouldn’t have traded having breast cancer for anything in the world. “I have always had an appreciation for life from working with cancer patients, but this second chance makes it more real,” she said. The experiences of Kelly Jeffcoat and other breast cancer survivors will be celebrated on October 12th, 2010 when Lexington Medical Center hosts in annual Women’s Night Out. The event is a silent auction, dinner and talk by a breast cancer survivor that honors breast cancer patients and their families. Proceeds benefit Lexington Medi-

Survivor in You!

Buy mums and other fall flowers to decorate, or use tall corn stalks or straw to create a fall inspired theme. Pumpkins are abundant at this time of year, so add a few of those for color!

Cozy up on the couch

Make your home cozy by bringing out your fall colored blankets and throws, and take some time to enjoy a good book while you’re at it! Kelly Jeffcoat with a patient cal Center’s Cancer Care Fund. For more information, visit www.lexmed.com.

Fall aromas

Use candles or incense to fill your home with the familiar smells of pumpkin pies and cinnamon apple cider.

FEATURING:

Presents

Heidi Marble

A breast cancer survivor and author of “Waiting for Wings, A Woman’s Metamorphosis Through Cancer”

Tickets $35 Exhibits and Silent Auction 5:00 p.m.

Tuesday, October 12, 2010

Dinner 6:30 p.m.

All proceeds benefit the Lexington Medical Center Foundation Cancer Care fund.

Embassy Suites Hotel To order tickets, call (803) 936-8850 or visit www.lexmed.com. WNO 8x5.12_4C.indd 1

8/19/10 1:31 PM www.lexingtonwomanonline.com 45

Terry Vann-Schon, Tyler Ryan, and Paulette Criscione

A journey that was meant to happen…. Take a woman with a great sense of style facing a difficult situation with her head held high (and quite fashionably decorated) along with a woman with the heart to help others and the opportunity to do so, and Chemo with Style was inevitable. Paulette Criscione and Terry Vann-Schon formed a partnership and a friendship that has made Chemo with Style such an important part of many survivors journey. With the donation of 75 wigs and the desire to pay it forward, Paulette and Terry have worked since November of 2005 to help patients who lose their hair while under going chemotherapy, look and feel better as they fight for their lives. Chemo with Style classes are held every other month, and are open to all cancer patients who are losing or have lost their hair. Hospice Care of Tri-County, SCOA, local merchants, and volunteers support the classes, where they teach and fit each individual with a wig and turban, showing creative ways to wear different head gear, and offering other personal appearance tips. Scarf tying and other tricks are shared along with fun and fellowship. Classes are offered at no cost to the patient.This loosely knit support group supplies each cancer patient an oasis from the sterile medical. Through the hearts of those who are like-minded, Paulette and Terry strive to add sunshine to the day of each cancer survivor.

The “Chemo With Style” events have been made possible by the donations of many caring, loving people.

Sponsors: South Carolina Oncology Associates Hospice Care of Tri-County “Chemo With Style” Volunteers Joan Robinson, Hair to Stay Graciously accepting Donations — Please call Terry Vann-Schon for more information on how to donate.

Contact Terry Vann-Schon for more information 803.400.1177 | 166 Stoneridge Drive, Suite 100 | Columbia, SC 29210 | www.chemowithstyle.com 46

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating Real isWomen “Chemo with Style” a © copyrighted program with Hospice Care of Tri-County.

Business & Web Directory Animal Hospital

Home Cleaning

Grace Pets Animal Hospital...........................................18 www.gracepets.com

Ductz.................................................................................26 www.ductztotalcare.com

Attorney

Hospital

Kinard & Jones, LLC.......................................................21 www.kinardandjones.com

Lexington Medical Center........................Back Cover, 45 www.lexmed.com

The Law Office of Richard Breibart, LLC.....................24 www.palmettofamilylaw.com

Jewelry

Boutique/Salon

Dems.................................................................................41 www.demsjewelers.com

Cho On Main.....................................................................7 www.choonmain.com

The Chapman Company...................................................9 www.thechapmancompany.com

Catering/Wedding Venue

Insurance

Corley Mill House & Garden.........................................12 www.corleymillhouse.com

State Farm.........................................................................15 www.sfyourstyle.com

Dentist

Limousine Services

Palmetto Comprehensive Dentistry..............................29 White Knoll Dentistry....................................................37 www.whiteknolldentistry.com

DJ and Entertainment

Lake Murray DJ Service, LLC........................................12 www.lakemurraydjservice.com

Engraved Gifts

Personalized Things for You...........................................22 www.personalizedthingsforyou.com

Entertainment

Colonial Life Arena...................................................19, 25 www.coloniallifearena.com

Health Services

Chemo with Style.............................................................46 www.chemowithstyle.com Conner Chiropractic.......................................................34 www.connerchiro.com Midlands Orthopaedics, PA...........................................33 www.midlandsortho.com SC Ovarian Cancer Foundation....................................43 www.scOvarianCancer.org Vital Energy Fitness Studio............................................36 www.vitalenergyfitness.com

All Star Limousine Service.............................................11 www.allstarlimosc.com

Marketing Services

Grant Digital Media........................................................13 www.grantdigitalmedia.com The Tyler Ryan Group.....................................................23 www.tylerryangroup.com

OB/GYN

Columbia Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Healthcare......................................31 www.columbiawhc.com

Photography

Clark Berry Photography..................Inside Front Cover www.clarkberry.com

Restaurants

Thai Wasabi........................................................................4 www.thaiwasabi.net Travinia Italian Kitchen....................................................3 www.traviniaitaliankitchen.com

Shoes and Accessories

Kicks Exceptional Shoes...................................................6 www.shopatkicks.com

Vital Energy Wellness and Rehab Center.....................28 www.vitalenergytherapy.com

www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

A Personal Note

t is a scary thing that you can get so busy that you forget simple things, like where you put your keys, or that you can leave your house without your license. Being a busy mother of four, I had gotten to a meeting, the grocery store, church…. A few too many times without my purse. So as any independent woman would do, I found a solution. I adopted the habit of leaving my purse in my vehicle. No big deal – my driveway – I haven’t parked in my garage in forever – it’s filled with boxes of magazines and truth be told probably a few boxes from eight years ago, that I haven’t gone through yet. That all changed for me on August 8th. Trent called me from work early that morning, and asked if I or one of the children had been in his truck the night before. I assured him we had not, and thought it was a strange question. He explained that all of the contents of his console had been strewn about the passenger seat. Now, ladies… I don’t know about you but my husband treats his truck like a family member. She (he calls her a she) gets washed weekly and vacuumed often, and he throws an outright tantrum if I drive “her”. So I had little doubt that he was right about someone being inside the night before. He asked me to check my vehicle and assured me it was probably nothing. I felt a tightening in my belly and when I went to the car – my purse was dumped unceremoniously in the back seat, everything of value was gone. My wallet and all of its contents were gone. A gift from a friend, a thank you card from my Aunt, pictures, even my Sam’s card! I called Lexington County, and they came out to file a report. The very next stop on my list was my bank. I spent the next two to three weeks trying to track down the contents of my purse. I had a new license issued, cancelled credit cards, changed all of my online payment information. I was frustrated. I was angry and I felt violated. Now in 37 years, I have never had my purse stolen. My oldest son looked at me and said, “Mom, what is the big deal? You had to know that at some point in your life your purse would be stolen.” No, I didn’t know that. It did not even occur to me. Someone taking something that did not belong to them, from my property, never even crossed my mind. I like to think I am an empathetic person. I try to always put myself in another person’s shoes. I try to be understanding and kind to others. I have to say that until it happened to me, I had no clue what it felt like to have my purse stolen. I thought it would be a hassle. I thought it would be frustrating. It was. What I did not know is how it would eat at me, the hours of my day that I spent trying to replace all those little things that I have so meticulously held onto for the last twenty or so years. Those things that helped assure me of who I am. Little thoughts, like what if they get stopped for speeding and use my license? Those rampant thoughts begin to invade my secure world. My dad always said, “If someone needs it bad enough to steal it, they needed it more than you.” I am sure he is right. I hope it never happens to you, and if it has, you understand exactly how I feel. The good news is, my wallet was just a wallet. My things are just things. Everything that was taken from me can be replaced. I even found the thank you card that I thought was stolen had only been moved from my vehicle to my husbands! I had spent twenty years acquiring the things in my wallet. It only took three weeks to replace them. At the end of the day, those possessions were just “things”. What I value...what means the most to me...could not be housed in a leather purse between my back seat and my front. I am grateful that my children, my husband, and my home were left untouched by the robbers. I’ve learned from the women in this magazine how to prioritize just a little more effectively. Oh, and I learned from the thieves to never leave my purse in my car!

Lori Samples Duncan

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Celebrating, Motivating and Educating Real Women

Psalm 121:7-8

The LORD will keep you from all harm— he will watch over your life; the LORD will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.

photos by Clark Berry Photography

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I’m a mom… an equestrian… a teacher… a soccer fan… a patient of Lexington Medical Center.

Kimberly Williamson, Teacher

Women’s Services at Lexington Medical Center was created for all the women you are.

During a woman’s life, many roles are played. But no matter what role you’re playing at the time, one thing remains important. Your health care. Women’s Services at Lexington Medical Center is designed to offer a continuum of care to women of all ages. So go ahead and live your life. We’ll make sure that while you do, you’ll be receiving the finest care available. Anywhere.

www.lmcWomensServices.com 50

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating Real Women