MARCH / APRIL 2019
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Making Great Vision
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mylivinglocal.com | MARCH/APRIL 2019
From the
Publisher
S
Audrey Brooks | PUBLISHER / OWNER
eason is still here and in spite of the congested roadways it’s a great time to be in Southwest Florida. We are so fortunate to experience some cooler weather…without freezing!! And of course, there is Spring Training for those of us who enjoy watching our favorite baseball team in our own backyard. GO RED SOX! Over the years livinglocal® has developed a strong medical focus. You’ll find a number of articles on physicians offering the latest technology, as well as health advice. One of them is our cover feature this issue, Dr. Thomas Quigley. The world-renowned cataract surgeon and founder of Quigley Eye Specialists was the first ophthalmologist in Southwest Florida to implant the cutting edge Symfony® lens. Dr. Quigley has a wealth of knowledge in his field, is committed to excellent patient care, and is also a very personable individual. Youth Leadership Collective is the spotlight of our “For A Greater Cause” feature. In a generation where bullying, suicide and despair is on the rise, the ART DIRECTOR
Teddy Tedford Teddy brings a wealth of branding, marketing and creative experience to livinglocal. Throughout his design career he has worked with local SWFL businesses and luxury brands across the state.
mylivinglocal.com | MARCH/APRIL 2019
founder and former youth pastor Will Hutchinson, is determined to provoke purpose and provide hope in teens. He is able to accomplish this through engaging experiences such as school assemblies in public schools, student leadership keynotes, and educator/ parent training. You may even know of someone in a leadership role at a public school to share this article with. I was able to make a connection a few months ago and the school just had their first assembly. The principal contacted me afterwards to let me know how impactful it was for his students. A special thank you goes out to our advertising partners for continuing to grow with us. And to you too, our readers, for patronizing local businesses. On a side note, remember that we are now publishing bi-monthly (every other month). Many of the businesses are offering TWO incentives, one for March and one for April. Therefore, please read closely and honor the dates on their offers. livinglocal, its content and the majority of its offers, may be found online at mylivinglocal.com. Visit us there to view and share previous articles or find special incentives. Thank you for keeping SWFL strong by livinglocal.
Audrey
LOCAL CONTRIBUTOR
Gina Birch Gina is a freelance writer for USA Today 10Best and a well-known TV & radio personality in SW Florida. Google her blog, “The Birch Beat” and follow her on Facebook & Twitter @GinaBirch.
side Inside this edition i
Dr. Thomas Quigley Quigley Eye Specialists
Travis Noel
Chris Phillips
Dr. Joseph Magnant
Alyssa Parker
Dr. Ronald Gardner
Dr. Samanta Andisco
Jill Raab
Theresa Clements
Noel Painting
Best Home Services
Vein Specialists
Gardner Orthopedics
Sittin’ Pretty Beach Gear
Acute Wound Care
s.m.i.l.e. Dental
Fast & Frugal Interiors
Dr. Peter Ameglio
Gardner Orthopedics Our mission at livinglocal includes spotlighting local non-profits that are making a difference in our community. In addition to sharing their story, we also provide a monetary donation on behalf of our advertisers. This month we feature Youth Leadership Collective, a local nonprofit organization that partners with educators and parents to heal despair in teens. They provoke purpose and provide hope through engaging experiences like school assemblies, student leadership keynotes, and educator/parent training. YLC empowers teenagers by cultivating the leadership potential within them, and helping them develop the skills they need for a better future. www.mylivinglocal.com
Serving Fort Myers, Estero, Bonita & Naples CONNE CT WIT H US
mylivinglocal.com
TO ADV ERTISE
239.245.7365 advertise@mylivinglocal.com
PUBLISHER
Audrey Brooks audrey@mylivinglocal.com Š2019 Brooks Infinity, Inc. - All content is property of the publisher and may not be used without mylivinglocal. com or | reproduced MARCH/APRIL 2019 expressed written consent from Brooks Infinity, Inc.
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T
wo out of three American adults seeing fine. I see it all the time.” report having vision problems according Other patients do not seek help as to the American Academy of Ophthal- they may be fearful, but experts say mology, however, only one in eight seek that detecting issues early is always help or get regular eye exams. in the patients’ best interest, which is There are a number of reasons most why Quigley Eye Specialists advises people do not get help. According to patients to get an annual eye exam, or Dr. Thomas Quigley, board certified even more frequently, if recommended ophthalmologist, world-renowned by their doctor. cataract surgeon and founder of Quigley One of the most common issues Eye Specialists, changes in vision are an aging adult will face are cataracts. often so gradual that a patient isn’t Cataracts are the most common cause always aware how bad their eyesight of vision loss in people over 40 and has become. the principal cause of blindness in the Dr. Quigley says, “It can get to a point world. A cataract is a clouding of the where one’s vision becomes debilitating, eye’s natural lens, which is a normal but the individual thinks he or she is part of the aging process. Most people
Offices in Lee, Collier & Charlotte Counties mylivinglocal.com | MARCH/APRIL 2019
Great Vision
Making
Part of Your Aging Strategy.
“We make it comfortable for patients. Patients sleep through the procedure and when they wake up, they are often surprised how easy it was.” - Dr. Quigley
Surgical Team choose to have cataracts treated in their learn that cataract surgery is a common mid-60s, but this age can range from and painless outpatient procedure, they early 50s to 80s, depending on genetic may have some fear. We are here to take the time with patients to explain and environmental factors. A cataract starts out small and at everything in detail, so they are as first has little effect on your vision. You educated as possible.” The outpatient procedure is brief may notice your vision is blurred a little, like looking through a cloudy window. and painless. Quigley Eye SpecialAs it progresses, Dr. Quigley explains ists performs cataract surgery under other symptoms may include, “Glare IV sedation. Dr. Quigley explains, from headlights, like a halo effect or “We make it comfortable for patients. star burst, a gradual dulling of colors, Patients sleep through the procedure and in some cases a frequent need to and when they wake up, they are often surprised how easy it was.” Patients are change your glasses prescription.” Even patients who know they have able to resume normal activities the cataracts may not seek help as result of next day, and within a week, the eye is fear. Dr. Quigley explains, “Until patients completely healed.
1CHOICE
#
for Cataract Treatment in Southwest Florida. mylivinglocal.com | MARCH/APRIL 2019
“With SmartLens® procedures, we can use a laser to assist and confirm the position of the premium implant.” - Dr. Quigley
Dr. Quigley as well as all other the Symfony lens and one of the first surgeons at Quigley Eye Specialists, surgeons in the US. operate out of St. John’s Surgery Center, The Symfony lens is considered a facility dedicated solely to eye care an elective lens and not covered by with a highly trained staff attuned to insurance, as it allows patients to see all things eyes. This is one reason the well without glasses at a distance and complication rates here are among the arm’s length. Other lens options include lowest in the country. the monofocal lens and multi-focal An AAAHC accredited facility, St. lenses. John’s facilitates more eye proceWhich lens is best for you? According dures than any other surgical center in to Dr. Quigley, it depends upon the Southwest Florida, and it’s one among health of your eyes, lifestyle and vision the top in the state. goals. SmartLens procedures allow St John’s Administrator Cheri Smith Quigley Eye Specialists to personalize says, “I’ve worked at other surgery the post-surgical vision to suit a patient’s centers, and we are very fortunate at lifestyle and provide a fuller range of St. John’s to be so well staffed that vision without glasses – similar to what we can offer more personalize care the patient might have enjoyed at a to patients. We have several nurses in much younger age. pre-op and one-on-one care in post-op Dr. Quigley explains, “With SmartLens which is rare.” procedures, we can use a laser to assist The center also has the latest technol- and confirm the position of the premium ogy including computer-assisted and implant so that a patient can have their laser-assisted cataract surgery. This best possible vision. The patient can is important if the patient chooses to see distance, intermediate or up close, replace their cloudy lens with a premium with less dependency on glasses, if that implant, such as the Symfony® lens or is important to the patient.” another SmartLens®. With a monofocal lens implant or Dr. Quigley was the first ophthalmol- basic cataract procedure, even though ogist in Southwest Florida to implant the cataract has been removed, patients
QuigleyEye.com mylivinglocal.com | MARCH/APRIL 2019
will still need to wear glasses. Insurance covers the cost of a standard monofocal lens. Choosing the right lens is part of the personal care patients receive at Quigley Eye Centers. The doctors help determine the best lens for a patient’s Dr. Quigley grew up in a small town needs and lifestyle. Some lenses are in Mississippi, the son of a general so advanced they can take up to 25 medical practitioner. He and wife days to make. Renee have a blended family of five A reminder that just because a children; Victoria, Erica, Tommy, cataract has been detected it doesn’t Emily, and Zachary, and the numbers mean a patient is in immediate need continue to grow. The couple now has of surgery. The cataract should be a certain density for surgery, however, if two beautiful grandchildren, Sunny left untreated could result in glaucoma. and Levi. Dr. Quigley and Renee are According to those with first-hand avid travelers and enjoy visiting their experience, Quigley Eye Specialists extended family located throughout provides patients with a warm and caring the country. While both share a experience. They also offer transporta- love for ophthalmology, they also tion to the surgical center for patients enjoy hiking, gardening, and relaxing who need it. The celebrated surgeon with a good book. Self-proclaimed explains, “In any organization you have a foodies, they are always searching for certain culture. Ours is treating patients the best local cuisine, whether it’s in like guests in our home, making sure Southwest Florida or in their travels. they have a great experience, along with offering the best technology for the As a couple, the Quigley’s also prepare healthy meals together at home and best outcome possible.” are committed to a lifestyle of fitness.
About Dr. Quigley
Call to schedule your eye exam today!
239-449-6032
mylivinglocal.com | MARCH/APRIL 2019
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mylivinglocal.com | MARCH/APRIL 2019
1CHOICE
#
“
for Cataract Treatment in Southwest Florida*
”
With an exceptional medical team and caring staff, Quigley Eye Specialists combines excellent care and the most advanced treatment options to ensure your best possible vision. We look forward to taking great care of you!
Whether you suffer from
CATARACTS DROOP EYELIDS GLAUCOMA DIABETIC RETINOPATHY MACULAR DEGENERATION CORNEAL ISSUES or just want to ensure your eyes remain healthy, schedule your eye exam today!
Call to schedule your eye exam today!
239-449-6032 E I G H T C O N V E N I E N T L O C AT I O N S
QuigleyEye.com
Thomas A. Quigley, MD Founder & Cataract Surgeon
*Based on 2016-2017 data for Collier, Charlotte and Lee Counties. mylivinglocal.com | MARCH/APRIL 2019
PAINTING
WITH PRIDE
Y
our home is your castle and when it needs a facelift or repairs, you want the job to be performed by someone who will treat both you and your castle with respect and professionalism. That’s exactly the treatment Marie Caroselli says she receives from Noel Painting. A longtime customer, Caroselli and her husband own two homes in Southwest Florida and most recently used Noel to fix damage from Hurricane Irma; both indoors and out. Caroselli says, “They tested for mold, retextured the walls, and didn’t leave until the paint job was perfect. I’ve known Travis for a long time and have a lot of respect for him.” Travis Noel is the owner of Noel Painting and has been a painter his entire life. He says, “Our company started with my brothers and I painting alongside our parents in our garage in Indiana.” Service is one of many things that set Noel Painting apart. Travis says, “We don’t see it as one and done. We are developing long-lasting relationships.
FREE
ESTIMATES
You will move to a new house or have a friend that needs help, and we want to be the first company out of your mouth.” When you call Noel Painting, they send an estimator to your home within 24 hours and you will receive a detailed estimate the next day. Finance Manager Felipe Fiuza says, “When we make an estimate, we line item everything with material quantities, areas and prices, from the prep work to the painting, so there are no surprises in the end.” Travis adds, “We invite the customer to walk around the property and show them all things we need to do and explain why; like pressuring washing the exterior to kill mold, caulking windows inside and out, properly covering floors, etc. We believe it is important to educate the customers so they feel comfortable when they award us the job.” In other companies, the estimator is more of a sales person who passes the job off to a crew once it’s scheduled. This can leave a gap for information
| (239) 466.7343 | NOELPAINTING.COM
mylivinglocal.com | MARCH/APRIL 2019
“Noel Painting would never walk away from any project without the client being totally happy. They did everything they could to please me.” Marie Caroselli —
to get lost or misconstrued, which can then lead to finger pointing, frustration, and disappointment. Not only does the estimator oversee each project through, they do not take a deposit. Payment is rendered when the job is completed and to the customer’s satisfaction. Felipe explains, “From the customer’s perspective it shows that we trust our work. We are very clear and transparent with the estimates so the customer knows up front what we will do and what we will not do.” What they will not do is cut corners. Perhaps that’s one reason why the local company is the largest painting contractor for Publix Super Markets. Working for the mega grocery store chain since 2005, Felipe says, “We treat all homeowners with the same respect and offer the same quality of workmanship that we do for the massive projects of Publix.” There is so much more to painting the exterior of a home than slapping on a
coat of color. For instance, there may be mold in places, so a pressure wash is in order or hairline cracks that need filled in before painting. Caulking is also important, Travis says it helps protect your home from water intrusion such as wind driven rain; important going into the rainy season. Travis explains, “These are the little details that the average homeowner doesn’t know or think about. They are time consuming but going the extra mile makes a difference; we are a customer driven company.” Noel Painting is going on 20 years of business in Southwest Florida, has a loyal staff of longtime employees, and a strong track record of giving back to the community. Caroselli says, “My experience over the years has been that Noel Painting would never walk away from any project without the client being totally happy. They did everything they could to please me. They stand behind their name.”
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mylivinglocal.com | MARCH/APRIL 2019
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mylivinglocal.com | MARCH/APRIL 2019
BEST HOME SERVICES
s p i ll i h P Chris
IS PROUD TO RECOGNIZE
BEST HOME SERVICES, Southwest Florida’s leading home service company providing exceptional air conditioning, electrical, and plumbing services to residents from Naples to Brandon for the last 39 years, is pleased to recognize plumber Chris Phillips for his devout dedication to customer satisfaction and the company. Chris Phillips, who’s originally from Lake Wor th, FL, moved to Southwest Florida to work for Best Home Services. Since starting his career at Bes t Home Ser vices, Chris has seen and been a par t of the rapid growth and development of Best Home Ser vices in the Southwest Florida area. He feels that the word “Family” is the best way to describe the company. “Ever yo ne o n ou r te a m wo r k s together,” Phillips said. “It’s so nice to work on a supportive team.”
Working on a great team is one of the main reasons that Chris Phillips likes Best Home Services, and he also likes the management. “We have good managers at Best Home Services, they take care of their technicians,” Phillips said. “If you need a day off, they will give you that day off.”
In April 2018, Chris became a part of the Best Home Services family. Since Chris has been a part of the plumbing team, he has learned the valuable lesson to not speed through his work. “When I’m working, I like to treat all my customers like family.” Chris says that being a plumber is a great job, and he takes pride in serving his customers. “I absolutely love the work that I do, it’s so rewarding to see my customers happy when I fix their plumbing problems.” “I think that it’s rewarding to know that I made a customer smile when they are having a bad day.”
AIR CONDITIONING • ELECTRICAL • PLUMBING • DRAINS mylivinglocal.com | MARCH/APRIL 2019
We asked Chris, as a plumber, what advice do you have for your customers. “You never know when something can happen to your plumbing.” “That’s why it’s vital to schedule plumbing maintenance at least once every six months.”
PLUMBING TIP of the month
“Regular plumbing maintenance ensures that your plumbing is working properly!” When he’s not giving his customers
advice or fixing their plumbing problems, Chris can be found freestyling on his jet ski. “I’ve competed in freestyling jet ski since I was 15 years old.” This past summer, Chris attended the Naples Pro Watercross Championship. “I had a great time at the Naples Pro Watercross Championship,” Phillips said. Chris says that he hopes he can one day compete at the International Jet Sports Boating Association (IJSBA) World Finals in Lake Havasu City, Arizona. “I also enjoy wakeboarding, surfing, motocross, skateboarding, horseback riding, and fishing,” Phillips said.
Best Home Services is a local, family owned and operated company that is focused on caring for their customers and the community. Their team relentlessly works to continuously improve their service to make Southwest Florida homes safer, more comfortable, and more efficient-one job at a time! To learn more about Best Home Services’ story and their Best Home Services Guarantee, please visit their website at www.getbest.com or call 239-217-1698.
If you can’t find Chris freestyling on his jet ski, he’s probably hanging out with his dog Hook. “Hook is so cute, he keeps me busy,” Phillips said.
BEST HOME SERVICES
FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED SINCE 1980!
mylivinglocal.com | MARCH/APRIL 2019
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LOCATED DIRECTLY BEHIND PUBLIX, MID-ISLAND
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GETTING “CROWNED”
in a day
different corners to help you bite. If a corner is broken, you don’t have the supporting structure to chew on. We need to cover the whole tooth so it can function properly.” Dispelling a misconception Dr. Andisco says, “Some people think if you need a crown you also need a root canal, but that’s not true. The protection a crown gives a tooth can help prevent needing a root canal.”
“If you have an emergency like breaking a tooth, we can make a permanent crown for you within a few hours.” Have you ever waited for weeks, even a month or more for a permanent crown, making multiple trips to the dentist? That doesn’t happen at SMILE Dental Bonita Springs thanks to their in-house lab. Co-owner, Dr. Samanta Andisco says, “If you have an emergency like breaking a tooth, we can make a permanent crown for you within a few hours.” Crowns are used to strengthen a tooth that has been cracked or broken. Dr. Andisco explains, “Most teeth have
It’s not common for dental practices to have an in-house lab for crowns and of those that do, not all offer the same level of quality and service found at SMILE Dental Bonita Springs. Crowns are individually, hand crafted for the patient using porcelain custom, shaded to match existing teeth, and with no visible metal lines. If adjustments in f it or color are needed, they are made immediately. In traditional practices patients wait weeks for the crown to be made at an offsite lab; and if it needs to be altered, it must be returned to the lab. Then you are stuck with a temporary crown for a few more weeks and need to schedule yet another trip to the dentist. “Crowns are not one size fits all,” says Dr. Andisco. “We consider it an art. We make it the right shape, size, and color so it makes you feel as though you never lost a tooth in the first place, and we’re very proud of it.”
9500 Bonita Beach Rd. SE • Suite 301, Bonita Springs • 239-319-2440 SmileDentalBonita.com smiledentalbonita mylivinglocal.com | MARCH/APRIL 2019
Think you’re too athletic to have vein problems?
by Jill Tanner, APRN & Joseph G. Magnant, MD, FACS, RPVI
I
t is widely held that venous insufficiency (also known as varicose vein disease or venous reflux disease) only affects older, overweight, and sedentary individuals. However, this is not necessarily the case. There are, in fact, many athletes who may have signs and symptoms of vein disease without an acute awareness that there is anything wrong. How many times have you seen a fit person at the gym with large varicose veins in one leg, or perhaps a yoga instructor with diffuse spider veins on their legs? Venous insufficiency occurs when the valves within the veins that carry blood back up to our heart no longer open and close tightly, which leads to leaking of blood backwards towards the feet. This leaking of blood results in increased venous pressure, due to the force of gravity, which may lead to bulging varicose veins, spider veins, swelling, leg cramps, heaviness, achiness, and even skin discoloration of ulceration. Athletes do not have to have physical signs, such as varicose veins or swelling, to have venous disease. They may
mylivinglocal.com | MARCH/APRIL 2019
have symptoms such as leg cramps, heaviness and achiness, especially after a period of exertion. They may relate their symptoms to an intense workout, dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, or sore muscles. What they may not realize is that these leg symptoms can be due to underlying venous reflux disease. Exercise plays an important role in our overall health, but some physical activities may require our legs to support more weight (such as weight lifting) or impact (such as running). If venous insufficiency is left untreated it can negatively impact your athletic performance. The good news is that there are ef fec tive and minimally invasive treatments available for venous insufficiency. What should you do if you have signs and symptoms of venous insufficiency? Consider scheduling a venous evaluation by an experienced Vein Specialist team. This typically would include a consultation by a trained professional who would assess your signs and symptoms, and very often lead to an ultrasound of your legs to check for venous insufficiency and leaky valves. If the ultrasound revealed treatable venous disease you would be apprised of the most advanced treatment options all of which are available in Southwest Florida.
Bonita Springs 3359 Woods Edge Cir, Suite 102 Fort Myers 1500 Royal Palm Sq Blvd, Suite 105
COMPLIMENTARY SEMINAR Meet Dr. Magnant & his team of providers for an intimate Q&A session. Fort Myers 3/21 or 4/11 Bonita/Naples 3/13 or 4/10 L I M I T E D S E AT I N G A L L S E M I N A R S B E G I N AT 4 : 3 0 P M R S V P AT 2 3 9 - 6 9 4 - 8 3 4 6
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“
I felt so good the day after Dr. Magnant performed an Endovenous Ablation on my right leg, I walked the 5k Turkey Trot at Hertz Arena. I followed Dr. Magnant’s post-op instructions and wrapped my thigh and wore compression socks. Ten days after my left leg procedure and my final ultrasound, I ran a 10k in Clearwater. Although it wasn’t my best time, my goal was to complete it and I did just that. Since then I have run a 5-mile in Marco Island (all hills) and my most recent was a 5k on January 5. My legs feel great and the heaviness is gone!
— Jennifer, age 48
“
So, what’s your next step to keeping yourself in maximum athletic condition? You can start by being professionally measured for medical grade compression socks and start wearing them on a daily basis. Compression socks will counteract the pressure of the pooling blood in the legs and will assist in moving the blood back towards the heart. This helps to decrease pressure in the legs, which in turn decreases pain and swelling. You should also elevate your legs after physical activity as this promotes blood return to the heart. Exercising in a swimming pool, such as walking or aerobics, is also a great way to decrease symptoms as the external pressure of the water exerts compression on your legs. The gold standard, definitive therapy for leaking veins in 2019, is endovenous ablation, either with heat (radiofrequency or LASER) or adhesive (Venaseal). All procedures should be performed under local anesthesia in a sterile outpatient treatment room, under strict sterile conditions. Patients may return to their normal routine immediately in most cases. If you are an athlete or you know someone who is an athlete and varicose veins, or other signs and symptoms of veins disease are impairing their physical performance, please visit our website at Weknowveins.com or contact our office at (239) 694-8346 for more information. NOW get on the floor and give me 20 pushups!
(239) 694-VEIN (8346)
mylivinglocal.com | MARCH/APRIL 2019
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IMPROVING THE
Ronald Gardner, M.D. ORTHOPEDIC SURGEON
Have you ever had a joint injection without experiencing the relief you were hoping for? “It could be because the physician did not have the needle in the joint,” according to Dr. Ron Gardner. That is why we invested in state of the art equipment to make this vital technique safer, less painful, and more accurate.
“Dr. Castellano was extremely gentle and made me feel at ease, that’s literally all I felt. I never felt the shot that numbed my foot or the cortisone injection. Immediate pain relief was all I felt.”
Gina Birch
Dr. Gardner along with his colleagues at Gardner Orthopedics complete all joint injections under fluoroscopic x-ray. It’s technology that uses an X-ray to produce an image of the injection site (foot, knee, shoulder, etc.) on a real-time monitor. This enables the doctors to see exactly where the needle is and that’s not all. Once the area has been anesthe-
EFFICIENCY & ACCURACY OF INJECTIONS
tized, the same small needle is slowly advanced into the joint itself. As the physician senses that the needle is in the joint, the syringe is removed from the needle and one filled with a dye that shows up on x-ray is attached and a small amount injected. Dr. Castellano explains, “When you think you are in the right spot you inject a small amount of dye. If you are in the joint the dye makes a line fitting the curves of the joint, otherwise it looks like a blob.” When the dye is seen to outline the inner aspect of the joint, the dye syringe is removed from the needle and the medication injected with the final syringe. Dr. Peter Ameglio explains, “Injections given without using fluoroscopy to confirm that you are in the joint have been proven over and over again to be extremely less accurate, especially with small joints in the foot, ankle, hand, elbow and shoulder. In fact, clinical research says even joints as big as those in the knee are missed at best only 10% of the time if fluoroscopy is not used.”
www.GardnerOrthopedics.com
mylivinglocal.com | MARCH/APRIL 2019
239.277.7070
Dr. Martinez injecting a shoulder under fluoroscopic x-ray Dr. Martinez, the upper extremity specialist at Gardner Orthopedics admits the accuracy rate for shoulder injections could be as low as 45% before the use of fluoroscopy. He continues, “Some of those injections contain very expensive medications including viscoelastics or ‘chicken juice’ as they are often called because they were first derived from rooster combs. So it’s important not to waste it in the wrong area of the body not to mention the fact that the patient will not get the relief they are hoping for.” Steroid injections are given to reduce inflammation, ease pain and reduce scarring in patients with arthritis or injuries. Biologic injections such as platelet-rich plasma and bone marrow aspirate stem cells can help repair damaged tissues. Prolotherapy is a solution of dextrose often mixed with B12 and ozone used to trigger the healing response in the tissues. In his practice, Dr. Castellano has seen an increase in patients with arthritis in the small joints of the midfoot and forefoot, due in part to bunions. Dr. Castellano says, “A bunion raises the first metatarsal off of the ground a bit causing the second metatarsal to do more than its share of the work. Thanks to the use of
Robert Martinez, M.D. ORTHOPEDIC SURGEON
3033 Winkler Ave
fluoroscopy,” Dr. Castellano says, “Now our accuracy is almost 100%.” Contrary to traditional steroid injections, patients receiving them at Gardner Orthopedics report little if any discomfort. Living Local contributor Gina Birch is one of them. She says, “I’m not afraid of needles but I had heard horror stories from friends who had failed and painful cortisone shots, and I needed one in my foot. I was very anxious when I arrived.” Gina had pain and swelling in the top of her left foot. Dr. Castellano numbed her skin with a cooling spray then injected a local anesthetic prior to the steroid. “Dr. Castellano was extremely gentle and made me feel at ease, that’s literally all I felt. I never felt the shot that numbed my foot or the cortisone injection. Immediate pain relief was all I felt.” “Fluoroscopy gives me great confidence in achieving positive results,” says Dr. Castellano. Despite the success rate of fluoroscopy, it’s expensive technology and not used in all medical practices. If you have been told a steroid injection could ease your pain and inflammation, call Gardner Orthopedics to learn more about the benefits of having one with the use of fluoroscopy.
Peter Ameglio, M.D.
Brad Castellano, DPM
ORTHOPEDIC SURGEON
FOOT & ANKLE SPECIALTY
Fort Myers
mylivinglocal.com | MARCH/APRIL 2019
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mylivinglocal.com | MARCH/APRIL 2019
In-Home COMPRESSION Therapy REDUCE LIMB SWELLING & IMPROVE CIRCULATION
A
common challenge faced in the medical f ield is finding the cause of an individual’s limb swelling. Any limb swelling may be your body’s red flag to a potential underlying condition. When swelling in a limb becomes chronic, pinpointing the origin is vital to getting proper treatment. Some of the most common diagnosis are venous insufficiency and lymphedema. Fluid accumulation can cause painful swelling, non-healing wounds, heaviness, and discomfort decreasing your mobility. Recent studies show that nearly 7 million people in the United States suffer from venous disease. While 2 to 3 million Americans suffer from secondary lymphedema. Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is when blood is unable to circulate from the lower limbs back to the heart. CVI is caused by incompetent valves and venous hypertension, in both parts of your venous system. The venous system is comprised of two parts, deep circulation and superficial circulation, which are interconnected by perforat-
ing veins. Your venous system is an important component to delivering blood to the heart, then passing it through the lungs to obtain oxygen. The oxygenated blood is then delivered to the lower limbs. Ve n o u s h y p e r t e n s i o n l e a d s t o secondar y lymphedema from the lymphatic system’s inability to keep up with an abnormally high demand of protein rich fluid. Lymphedema is chronic swelling from protein rich fluid accumulation in the tissue. Ly mphedema occur s secondar y to CVI when the lymphatic system i s o b s t r u c te d c a u s i n g d a m a g e, blockage, or abnormal develop ment. Primary lymphedema can be hereditary or congenital, where an individual is born with a compromised lymphatic system. Once your circulator y system has been obstructed leading to venous insufficiency or lymphedema, this may lead to an interruption in the venous and lymphatic flow. Both diseases are manageable and treatable.
www.AcuteWoundCare.com
mylivinglocal.com | MARCH/APRIL 2019
By Alyssa Parker
“ I t r i e d e ve r y t hi n g f r o m compression stockings to elevating my legs. The stockings we’re difficult to get on and I barely saw a difference. Then one of my neighbors who had battled with leg swelling told me ab out t he C ompr e s sion Pump with Acute Wound Care. The compression pump has been remarkable! I can fit in my shoes and I no longer have pain in my legs. I wish I had found out about the treatment sooner.” – Dee
RISK FACTORS MAY INCLUDE: • Chronic swelling of a limb • Skin changes such as discoloration or hardening • Family history • Invasive surgical procedure i.e. radical cancer surgery • Chronic open wounds • Decreased mobility • Infections such as cellulitis/lymphangitis Understanding the ongoing management of both venous insufficiency and lymphedema are important in preventing irreversible damage to the body. Compression therapy, along with proper nutrition a healthy diet and exercise, are the foundation of a treatment plan. Compression stockings are often difficult to get on with little results for chronic swelling. Diuretics may be harmful for long term treatment. Compression
devices are widely recognized and highly effective treatment. This is a safe and effective way to assist your body’s circulatory system in moving the excess fluid which has accumulated in the limb. A pneumatic compression device mimics the muscle contraction that naturally occurs when performing a cardiovascular activity. The compression pump is approved by Medicare and covered by many commercial insurers. Acute Wound Care is a highly focused local provider for at-home compression d e v i c e t r e a t m e n t f o r Ve n o u s Insufficiency & Lymphedema and wound products. They are licensed with Medicare and HQAA accredited. The specialists at Acute Wound Care work with your treating physician to ensure the device is medically necessary and also handle all of the insurance processing to receive coverage.
(239) 949-4412
mylivinglocal.com | MARCH/APRIL 2019
Fashionable, Functional and Fun!
Luxe Leopard
When Jill Raab would take a walk on the beach, she often had trouble finding her chair and umbrella because all of them looked the same. They had the same stripes or tropical prints, neither of which fit her personal style. The founder of Sittin’ Pretty remembers thinking, “Wouldn’t it be cool if the umbrellas looked like something in your home or something you would wear?” The career designer decided to do something about it and created Sittin’ Pretty, starting with designer beach chairs and coordinating umbrellas that make a statement, show you’ve got style, even when there is sand between your toes. Raab spent more than 25 years in the apparel industry, starting as a textile designer. Through the course of her
Oceana Black
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Haven
career she went from textiles designer to apparel designer in New York City and other big markets, working for big name corporations. Her path eventually took her to Graco Children’s Products, a leader in baby gear. The company so adept at making consumer goods was lacking a fashionable edge and she was instrumental in flipping the switch. Raab remembers, “They bought their prints from the mass market and sold the same print to everyone. I came in and brought in artists, and we designed prints that were never seen before. That industry has exploded now.” It was during this time that she learned about UV protection, tubing, plastics and what fabrics could be coated, as well as the process of manufacturing.
www.SittinPrettyBeachGear.com
mylivinglocal.com | MARCH/APRIL 2019
Nautical Knots
215-859-6952
The Philadelphia native spent time every summer on the Jersey shore growing up declaring, “I’m a beach girl.” She knew about fashion, she knew about consumer goods, and she knew the beach. Her relocation to Southwest Florida to work for Chico’s seemed a perfect fit. Fueled by her beach chair idea and the encouragement of friends, the entrepreneur left Chico’s to follow her beachy dream and form her own company. She took business classes, reached out to colleagues and found a business partner, Tony Zumbo. 25 years of friendships and relationships all culminated in making this business a success. Sittin’ Pretty currently has five designs under its literal umbrella, including a leopard print called Luxe Leopard that is Raab’s ode to Chico’s. She says, “Leopard prints never go out of style. They are modern and fun.”
Nautical Knots was inspired by time spent on the Northeast Coast, a twist on the traditional knot prints in Navy and White. Oceana Aqua brings it home to the Florida lifestyle in color and pattern, while Haven is refreshing and timeless in grey and white with her signature quatrefoil pattern. About Oceana Storm, Jill laughs, “I wanted to sit under something black because I wear a lot of it. People think it’s hot but it’s not. It’s breathable polyester and the umbrella has a UV protective coating to keep the sun out.” Jill put a great amount of effort into looking for the right grade of materials for her umbrella, adding all of the right details including an intergraded screw bottom that makes it easy to sink into the sand so the umbrella won’t blow away, and tops that tilt as the sun shifts. She even secured patents for her designs. Find Sittin’ Pretty products at
The same holds true for the beach chair. The designer says, “I did research on the best chairs and what people want. These chairs have five positions including one that allows you to lie flat. They have wooden handles, the fabric is double sided front and back, and it’s the strongest material you can get. It can hold a 250 pound person.” Jill says, “It’s about fashion, coordinating designs, and the best quality while being affordable. It sets you apart from the masses.” She plans to add more features to the chairs and additional coordinated accessories such as towels, coolers, and carts. You can find ordinary beach chairs at any retailer but Raab says, “When I’m on the beach people always stop and ask about mine. I’m a designer and care about every detail: the patch, the embroidered logo, the illustrated tags in beautiful quatrefoil shapes. It’s elegant and modern and something that people notice.” Sittin’ Pretty is a labor of love and she is quick to share credit saying, “A lot of talented people helped me create a really cool product. I’m really grateful for them.”
“Wherever life takes you – beach, lake, with family, friends, or alone – I hope you can SIT, RELAX, and ENJOY in great style!” – Jill Raab, Owner | Sittin’ Pretty
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Hip Pain?
SI JOINT OR HIP ARTHRITIS?
with Dr. Peter Ameglio
P
inpointing where your hip pain is coming from can be quite a puzzle. If the pieces don’t line up, no matter what procedure you undergo, including surgery, you could likely still be hurting. Solving the mystery is something that has become a mission of Dr. Peter Ameglio at Gardner Orthopedics. Dr. Ameglio is the primary hip surgeon for the respected practice and says, “When you have done all you can to treat the hip and you’ve reached the point of surgery, you want to make sure the procedure you are being offered will actually resolve the pain.” While that might seem logical, some people with seemingly successful hip replacement surgeries still experience pain, and Dr. Ameglio has resolved to find out why. He discovered that the cause of pain in many patients was from sacroiliitis, or inflammation the sacroiliac joint (SI). It’s located where the lower spine and pelvis connect. Dr. Ameglio explains, “The SI joint can mimic symptoms of an arthritic hip. I have seen patients who’ve had a hip replacement but still have symptoms of hip arthritis, even though the joint has been replaced.” Symptoms are typically aggravated from sitting to standing, walking or standing for prolonged periods, running, climbing stairs, taking long strides, or rolling over in bed.
mylivinglocal.com | MARCH/APRIL 2019
It is important to obtain a careful medical history as well. Diagnosis associated with sacroiliitis include Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, psoriatic ar thritis, and infec tious causes, such as brucellosis or urinary tract infection. “15-30% of people with low back p ain ha ve sacroilii t is ,” say s t he surgeon. “It’s sizable and it is critical to understand because of the overlap in symptoms.” If you are having low back and hip pain and only have a little bit of arthritis, despite what you may have been told, surgery might not be the answer. Dr. Ameglio explains, “If the patient still has a great range of motion, but they are just in pain, they are a good candidate for an SI issue.” The sacroiliac joint functions as a shock absorber, supporting the entire spine. It dissipates the shock to the sacrum and pelvis; however, as we get older it is less able to absorb shocks. It becomes stiff and less mobile. Problems with the SI joint often result in pain in the pelvis, around the sacrum or lower back, buttocks, groin, lateral thigh, leg, and foot. Some patients have referred pain in other areas, making an SI diagnosis even more difficult. The sacroiliac joint can also become painful after childbirth, motor vehicle accident, pelvic injury from a fall, or as a result of inflammatory arthritis, such as Rheumatoid arthritis. Patients who have had back fusion but still have pain below the belt, could have an issue with the SI joint. SI could also be the culprit if you’ve had a hip replacement and your groin still hurts. Dr. Ameglio says, “It’s not common but it happens.” Joints in the hips and back directly af fec t each other and can cause overlapping symptoms. For instance, if your hip is stiff, it puts strain on your lower back and vice versa.
Surgery is not always the answer to joint pain. Dr. Ameglio and the entire team at Gardner Orthopedics view it as a last resort and in fact, have quite an arsenal of treatments to help keep you out of the operating room. If you are having back pain below the belt, if you’ve had a hip replacement and are still in pain, if you’ve been told you have arthritis and need a hip replacement but still have great mobility; find the real source of your pain and treat it with the help of Dr. Ameglio and Gardner Orthopedics. Please plan to join Dr. Ameglio at one of his complimentary seminars, including a Q&A session, about SI joint dysfunction; including symptoms and treatment options. Refer to back cover for the dates, times, and how to reserve your seat.
About Dr. Ameglio
Dr. Peter Ameglio was born in Washington, DC but grew up in Panama. After returning to the states, he completed his undergrad at the University of New Hampshire and studied pre-med in Maryland where he worked at Johns Hopkins. Graduating from medical school at Albert Einstein in New York, he had successful practices in New Hampshire and Maine before relocating to SW Florida to be closer to family, including his twin sister in Miami. The doctor enjoys a healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise and understands that his patients desire a high quality of life too. Dr. Ameglio loves being a doctor and is grateful to be able to care for others. He believes it is what he was born to do.
Dr. Ronald Gardner
3033 Winkler Avenue • Ft Myers • E D Q
(239) 277-7070
www.GardnerOrthopedics.com mylivinglocal.com | MARCH/APRIL 2019
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mylivinglocal.com | MARCH/APRIL 2019
Fast&Frugal INTERIORS DESIGN With An EDGE
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ome improvement shows are some of the most addicting programs on The charm of the interior of your home is television. They can inspire you to take in simple details. Cleverly arranged art, on a new decorating project or redo your accessories and books can completely entire home décor. But looking at all of the transform the look and feel of a room! various patterns, textures and styles can If you need more direct assistance, be a tad bit overwhelming if you have no Clements says, “Get on your running shoes, idea where to start. we are going to get to work.” She will become – That’s when you call Theresa Clements, your personal shopper, taking – you to furniture, owner of Fast and Frugal Interiors. For over consignment and home improvement stores 25 years, she’s been bringing her client’s to find the perfect accent pieces, paint colors visions to life through interior design. She’s and more, all within your budget. even been featured on HGTV thanks to her About her job, Clements says, “It’s exciting unconventional technique. for me to open new doors to clients and give In the beginning of her career as part them a way to solve what they thought was owner of Galloways, Clements and Associ- a huge problem.” She continues, “Once you ates in Royal Palm Square, she had what see their vision, the fun thing is giving them she calls ‘a dream team’ of architects, the best version of that vision.” builders and contractors, at her disposal. Fast and Frugal is a spinof f of sor t s, targeting the everyday homeowner who wants to transform their living space but needs expertise. She says, “I’m trying to reach people who wouldn’t think of calling a designer.” Although the name speaks to her efficiency, Clements makes sure to spend adequate time with each client in order to capture their vision in the most accurate way. If a home consultation is all you have the budget for, she will come in and decide on a game plan, giving you a road map of where to go and how to achieve exactly what you want.
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“Will’s assembly was right on point with our student population. Several students and teachers said it was the best assembly we’ve ever had! All grades loved it; very entertaining, current, and meaningful.” – Michele Stanford, Assistant Principal Fort Myers High School
“I
could no longer sit idly by and watch the despair in our youth,” says Will Hutcherson, founder of Youth Leadership Collective. He formed the non-profit organization last year to partner with educators and parents in healing that despair and empowering teenagers. A former youth pastor with an executive position at Next Level Church, he left the security of his decade long job and stepped out in faith explaining, “Despair was on the rise and I felt compelled to do something about it.” It’s not only the despair but also the lack of conversation that Hutcherson feels is fueling the rise in teen suicide and school shootings. Conversation is what he sparks through Youth Leadership Collective assemblies and leadership trainings. As a teenager, Will faced challenges from gang violence to drugs and alcohol. It wasn’t until a coach and teacher saw beyond the behavior of today, to see the potential of who he was meant to be tomorrow. This coach helped him to see he didn’t have to be the result of his problems but could choose to flip the script and change his story.
in Local Youth
At the age of 18, Will began making positive choices and leading his peers to a better way of life. He stopped drinking and partying and started helping other students discover a greater purpose in life. W h i l e a t te n d i n g co l l e g e, W i l l developed a passion for leadership and pursued public speaking. Those skills provided a platform that now carries him across the country presenting motivational speeches and conducting leadership trainings for businesses. He still works with business leaders, but his focus is shifting to schools, speaking at assemblies, and working with educators. “At the end of my last assembly, a young girl came up to me, eyes red, tears streaming down her face, and hugged me.” Hutcherson recalls, “Bear hugged me. I hugged her back and told her she mattered. You have a purpose. Don’t give up. As long as you are still breathing, there is hope for tomorrow.” He exhales and continues, “In that moment she had hope and believed that tomorrow could be different. These assemblies spark conversations.
“Will came to my high school and gave a message of hope and encouragement. He truly understands what kids are going through. His message left an impact on my life that will last a lifetime.” – LeeAnn, Student Fort Myers High School
mylivinglocal.com | MARCH/APRIL 2019
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Students reach out to teachers and counselors. Conversation is a big key. Despair grows in isolation; conversation is the core to suicide prevention.” W hen t he s tudent s reach ou t , Hu tcher son want s to make sure educators have the tools to keep the process moving. He conducts teacher trainings on leadership and professional development saying, “The world has changed around them. Maybe they thought they would just be a teacher, but the teens today are not the teens of yesterday. They have to see themselves as mentors, not just educators. Every kid is one caring adult away from success.” The Youth Leadership Collective has a team of education and mental health professionals working on a curriculum for teachers and administrators to plug in. “My dream would be that every school does 20 minutes a week with small groups of students having a conversation around a topic. The best way to identify a possibly violent student is through consistent conversation and giving kids a safe place to open up.” Many schools have funding for anti-bullying and suicide prevention, bu t i t ’s not al way s enough to cover the cost s of assemblies and trainings. That’s when Hutcherson
relies on his growing donor base to make up the difference, enabling him to reach students and teachers in schools of all sizes. “I call this organization a collective because I knew there was no way it would happen with one guy and a microphone. It is a collective effort.” Besides Hutcherson, there are two additional motivational speakers that go into schools. About the Youth Leadership Collective, Hutcherson says, “Sometimes you come to cross roads and have an opportunity to do something different that could make an impact. Years later you don’t want to think ‘what if.’ I could be wrong, but at end of the day… what do I have to lose? I could fail, but so be it; because I didn’t fail for the one kid who had hope that day, or the thousands more that I don’t know about. The risk of failure is worth giving them hope.”
(516) 636-HOPE | P.O. Box 62695 Fort Myers, FL. 33906
YouthLeadershipCollective.com
“ Will’s message consists o f r e s p e c t , n o n - b ull y i n g , gratitude, and a general love for one another speaks volumes i n t hi s day of di s r e sp ec t . His is a message to be heard by high school and middle school students.” – David LaRosa, Principal Lee County School District
mylivinglocal.com | MARCH/APRIL 2019
www.mylivinglocal.com Brooks Infinity, Inc., Publisher • 239.245.7365 FORT MYERS • ESTERO • BONITA • NAPLES POSTMASTER: TIME SENSITIVE MATERIAL - PLEASE DELIVER FEB 28-MAR 2