Health and Fitness 2019 by Valley Journal

Health & Fitness 2019

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Strategies for warding off winter blues By Mary Auld for the Valley Journal

LAKE COUNTY – There’s no doubt about it: Mission Valley winters can feel long and gloomy. It’s not just the overcast weather that makes people long for the warm sunlight and bustle of outdoor activity that we associate with summertime. The short days and long hours indoors can impact brain chemistry, causing feelings of hopelessness, fatigue and general sadness. But the “winter blues,” can be counteracted with some changes. The winter blues are clinically known as Seasonal Affective Disorder. According to the American Psychological Association, feelings of sadness during the winter months are related to diminished exposure to sunlight. In the winter, the days are shorter. The Mission Valley is more overcast during the winter than other parts of the year. To compound the changes in sunlight, cold temperatures and snow make it easy to stay inside, out of the sunshine, for most of the day. Treasa Glinnwater is a licensed clinical social worker who has been practicing psychotherapy for more than 40 years. She sees an increase in patients with symptoms of depression during the winter months. When Glinnwater moved to Polson 20 years ago, she felt the depressing effects of the gloomy winters herself. Glinnwater said it’s important for those who feel depressed in the winter to know that they are not crazy or to blame for their changes in mood. Acknowledging symptoms of SAD is the first step to making a change that can brighten a gloomy winter. Her most important advice to patients 2 - January 16, 2019

“

Exercise is more effective than any kind of medication.” - Treasa Glinnwater, licensed clinical social worker

suffering from SAD is to get outside. “You want to take advantage of the sunlight,” she said. She recommends that those who suffer from SAD spend at least 20 minutes outside each day. The afternoon, when sunlight is brightest, is the best time to spend time outside. Glinnwater suggested creating a routine of regular outdoor activity. Making time each day to walk, ski or go outside can give the brain sufficient exposure to sunlight. She used downhill skiing combined with light therapy to recover from SAD. For those who are unable to use sunlight to rebalance their brain chemistry, Glinnwater recommends light therapy. According to the APA, light therapy is the practice of regularly sitting near a lamp that emits very bright light. Light therapy is usually most effective when used for about 20 minutes each day. In some cases, the brain reacts to the artificial light as it would sunlight. According to Glinnwater, winter can also just be a depressing time of year. “Sometimes the aftermath of Christmas is sadness or resentment or anger because the holidays didn’t go as planned,” she said. Bad road conditions and cold

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weather can cause people to stay inside rather than doing things that support good mental health like exercising or socializing. “In the summertime, even if you’re not exercising, you’re moving around a lot: walking or swimming,” she said. “In the winter, a lot of the time people just sit in the house and watch TV.” According to Glinnwater, social interaction distracts people from “dark and dismal” thoughts and can brighten their mood. She said interpersonal interaction doesn’t require a party or extensive plans. In tight-knit communities like those in the Mission Valley, a trip to get a cup of coffee or pick up some groceries often results in the “easy conversation” that Glinnwater says can lift spirits. She said the best thing to do if you start feeling down is to exercise. Exercise prompts the brain to release hormones and endorphins that improve mood. “Exercise is more effective than any kind of medication,” Glinnwater said. Talk therapy can also help those who suffer from SAD. Therapists like Glinnwater are available to speak with people who are suffering from the winter blues on a short or longterm basis. She suggests people contact the Western Montana Mental Health Center if they are unable to afford the cost of therapy. Services at the center are provided on a sliding scale based on income. Working with a support network to fight the winter blues can also have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life. “These changes really can lighten sad feelings,” Glinnwater said.

Schools serve healthy meals, nutrition education By Mary Auld for the Valley Journal

plastic school lunch tray might seem inconsequential, but the contents of that tray could transform a student’s health for years to come. Local schools are investing in their students’ wellness by providing nutritious meal choices and nutrition education. Polson School District Food Service Director Lindsay Ganong said her department makes an effort to serve diverse options every day. This includes a variety of brightly colored vegetables, whole grains and lean meats. She sees every meal in the cafeteria as a learning opportunity. “What I see are kids learning to have a palate that will help them to choose healthy meals for their future,” Ganong said. At schools throughout Lake County, breakfast and lunch are served each day. The meals adhere to nutritional guidelines developed by the USDA. The National School Lunch Program “provides nutritionally balanced, low-cost or free lunches to children each school day,” according to its website. Breakfast costs less than two dollars and lunch just less than three dollars. Children from families with low incomes can receive their meals at reduced cost or for free. St. Ignatius schools provide free lunch to all students. Some local schools, including those in Polson, participate in the Harvest of the Month program. The program high-

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lights one Montana grown vegetable, meat or grain each month. A Montana grown item is served on Polson’s lunch menu each week, said Ganong. “The students are learning not only to eat a variety of foods but also about the foods our neighbors can grow for us,” she said. Ganong said the Polson food service department is building systems that will allow the cafeterias to cook more of the food they serve from scratch. She is also working to create a diverse menu that takes into account the tastes and prefer-

ences of Polson students. To compliment nutritious daily meals, Ginger Pitts teaches students about nutrition in their classrooms. Pitts is the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) educator, a federal program, for the Flathead Reservation Extension Office. She leads nutrition classes for first, third and fifth graders across the reservation. According to Pitts, busy families turn to convenient, unhealthy options like fast food without understanding their impacts on health. She said rising rates of Type 2 Diabetes and obesity are directly related to diet. She’s working to inform the community about healthy eating by teaching children how to make healthy choices. Pitts’ lessons are hands on. Students read nutrition labels to identify healthy and unhealthy food choices. They learn about nutrients and participate in physical activity. They prepare tasty, healthy snacks that they can make on their own. According to Pitts, SNAP nutrition classes empower the community to make healthy choices at home and in the future. “The kids share what they’re learning with their families,” she said. The ultimate goal of these efforts is to build a community where people eat delicious food that makes them strong and healthy. “If you start at a young age teaching kids how to eat healthy, that will carry all the way through to adulthood,” Pitts said.

“If you start at a young age teaching kids how to eat healthy, that will carry all the way through to adulthood.” - GINGER PITTS, SNAP EDUCATOR

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Across from the library, 102 1st Avenue East, Polson 883-5544 Health & Fitness

Sponsored by the Lake County Tobacco Prevention Program January 16, 2019 - 3

Vaping ‘epidemic’ among youths declared by U.S. Surgeon News from the American Heart Association

WASHINGTON, D.C., — The U.S. Surgeon General declared vaping has become an ‘epidemic’ among youths. American Heart Association CEO Nancy Brown issued the following statement: “That the U.S. Surgeon General is calling teen vaping an ‘epidemic’ should seize the attention of elected officials and the community of organizations working to protect the health of our nation’s children. We commend Surgeon General Adams, Commissioner Gottlieb and Secretary Azar for marshalling parents, educators, health providers and communities to apply proven methods to overcome the epidemic of e-cigarette use. “But more must be done in the face of rapidly rising e-cigarette use among youth. The FDA’s recent announcement that it plans to restrict marketing and sales of flavored tobacco products must be followed by immediate, concrete action that sends an unmistakable message that the tobacco industry’s relentless targeting of our nation’s children will no longer be tolerated.” The American Heart Association is a leading force for a world of longer, healthier lives. With nearly a century of lifesaving work, the Dallas-based association is dedicated to ensuring equitable health for all. We are a trustworthy source empowering people to improve their heart health, brain health and well being. We collaborate with numerous organizations and millions of volunteers to fund innovative research, advocate for stronger public health policies, and share lifesaving resources and information. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, Twitter or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.

Flu Fighters Influenza kills people across the country, flu shot helps By Rob Zolman / Valley Journal

he flu season from 2017 to 2018 was the deadliest in more than four decades, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Diseases associated with influenza or complications from it caused more than 80,000 deaths across the United States. The total included 185 flu-related pediatric deaths. The CDC reports that more than 900,000 people were hospitalized for flu or flu-like illnesses last season. The number doubled compared to past seasons. The report doesn’t include all of those sickened with the virus who didn’t go see a doctor. The Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services collected statewide data. In Montana, more than 10,000 cases of influenza were reported last season with 979 hospitalizations and 79 deaths attributed to the virus. DPHHS said influenza is a highly contagious upper-respiratory viral infection. Many people become suddenly ill and recover within a few weeks with rest. A person with the illness is contagious for about two days before symptoms appear, and they remain contagious for about five days after symptoms appear. Symptoms may include fever, muscle or body aches, chills, runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, coughing and headaches. Some people also experience nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, according to the CDC. Health officials warn that the flu can be potentially deadly to anyone, but those most susceptible to serious flu-related complications are the very young, the elderly, those with weakened immune systems and others suffering from other chronic medical conditions. There are a few steps people can take to help reduce the severity of the dreaded virus and prevent complication from knocking them out this season. Many health professionals and public clinicians support vaccines as the best protection against the virus. The vaccine won’t prevent all cases of the flu, but it will lessen the severity and duration of the symptoms. The CDC recommends staying home when you are sick. The flu

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virus is contagious the day before symptoms appear, any time a fever is present and up to a week after the last symptom subsides. In addition to getting a vaccination and staying home when sick, people should be vigilant about hygiene. There are many opportunities for the influenza virus to spread in a shared environment. It can remain viable without a host for about 24 hours. Diligent hand washing and cleaning commonly touched surfaces can help kill the virus. Hand washing with soap and hot water is the best way to reduce the number of germs. The CDC suggests lathering up for at least 20 seconds or as long as it takes to sing or hum the “Happy Birthday” song twice. If soap and water are not available, an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol is a suitable substitution. To recover from the flu, people should get plenty of rest and relaxation. A lack of sleep suppresses the immune system and severely reduces your body’s ability to fend off attacking viruses. Sleep deprivation and chronic stress can wear down your immunity. The average adult should clock between seven and nine hours of sleep per night, according to the National Sleep Foundation. The immune system releases proteins called cytokines when a person sleeps, which are vital in the fight against infections. The CDC also recommends a visit to the doctor if people feel like they have contracted the flu. A doctor can help a person manage the symptoms before they become more severe and life threatening.

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2018 in review: CDC looks back at the year’s most pressing health threats News from the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

rom the opioid overdose epidemic to foodborne disease outbreaks and antimicrobial resistance to the Ebola virus outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention worked around the clock – and around the globe – to protect Americans from health threats in 2018. “CDC has a long history of using the best available science and data to make public health decisions,” said CDC Director Robert R. Redfield, M.D. “My vision for CDC and public health here and around the world is to get people to see the possible. We have to be bold and innovative to eliminate disease, protect Americans from health threats and improve the human condition.” Here’s a closer look at some of the biggest health issues that CDC tackled in 2018. Responding to Disease Outbreaks A new CDC analysis of data reveals that life expectancy for Americans continues to decline — a troubling trend primarily linked to the drug overdose epidemic. Mortality rates increased for seven of the 10 leading causes of death in the U.S. Drug overdoses continued to increase – 47,600 drug overdose deaths involved any type of opioid, including heroin and illicit opioids, representing over two-thirds of all overdose deaths. Ever since CDC data revealed the extent of America’s epidemic of opioid overdose deaths, CDC has been at the forefront of efforts to combat the crisis. To help support CDC’s response and bolster state efforts, Congress appropriated $476 million in FY2018. As a result, CDC increased funding to reach all 50 states and four U.S. territories to scale-up prevention and response activities, including improving the timeliness and quality of surveillance data and advancing our understanding of the opioid overdose epidemic. The ultimate goal is not just stopping outbreaks but preventing them from happening in the first place. Throughout 2018, CDC has investigated and helped resolve several foodborne outbreaks, including E. coli infections associated with romaine lettuce, Salmonella in ground beef and Kosher chicken, and Listeria in pork products. These investigations are shedding light on ways to make the U.S. food supply even safer. CDC and partners also continue to carefully study cases of Acute Flaccid Myelitis, a serious but rare condition that causes weakness in one or more limbs. In November, CDC announced the establishment of an AFM Task Force to aid in the ongoing investigation to define the cause of and improve treatment outcomes for patients with AFM. Since August, CDC has been coordinating with the Democratic Republic of Congo's Ministry of Health to respond to the second largest outbreak of Ebola in history. Earlier this year, CDC assisted in the response to an unrelated Ebola outbreak in northwestern DRC, which was brought to a quick end through a robust international effort. Rapid response is critical to contain any outbreak of viral hemorrhagic fever, but continuing a comprehensive response in DRC has been difficult because the affected area is remote, resource-challenged and has serious security concerns. CDC is supporting the response with staff stationed in Kinshasa and WHO headquarters in Geneva, as well as in neighboring countries.

A new CDC analysis of data reveals that life expectancy for Americans continues to decline - a troubling trend primarily linked to the drug overdose epidemic. Disease Control and Elimination CDC continues to make strides in disease control and elimination; however, challenges remain. One health consequence of the opioid epidemic is a dramatic increase in infectious disease. Hepatitis C infections have more than tripled in recent years, and the evidence points to people who inject drugs being at a high risk for hepatitis C and other forms of viral hepatitis. Additionally, CDC data released this year show steep and sustained increases in sexually transmitted diseases in the U.S., including nearly 2.3 million cases of chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis. This surpassed the previous record by more than 200,000 cases and marked the fourth consecutive year of sharp increases in these STDs. In 2018, CDC released data showing the suicide rate among the U.S. working-age population increased 34 percent between 2000 and 2016. Additionally, suicide rates rose in nearly every state between 1999 and 2016. Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death and its rise has contributed to lowered life expectancy over the past few years. Comprehensive suicide prevention activities are needed to address the full range of factors contributing to suicide. Chronic disease continues to remain a CDC priority. Despite being largely preventable, heart attacks, strokes, heart failure and other related conditions caused 2.2 million hospitalizations, resulting in $32.7 billion in costs and 415,000 deaths, according to CDC data. Many of these events were in adults ages 35-64. If every state reduced these life-changing events by six percent, 1 million cardiac events could be prevented by 2022. Global Health Security The most effective way to protect Americans from health threats that begin overseas is to prevent, detect and contain diseases at their source. This year, to advance global health security and protect Americans and U.S. interests, CDC continued to support more than 60 countries in building core capacities in disease surveillance, laboratory systems, public health workforce and emergency management and operations. The success of that support has been illustrated in many countries, such as in Uganda, a country that has partnered with CDC for many years. Today, Uganda’s national viral hemorrhagic fever surveillance and laboratory system is able to detect and respond to some of the world’s most dangerous viruses, like Ebola and Marburg, as well as other threats such as anthrax. In Thailand, Guatemala, Kenya, Sierra Leone, and Zambia, CDC experts helped public health practitioners harness the power of technology to improve disease surveillance. In India, as a result of CDC’s support in hospital-based surveillance, laboratorians were able

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to rapidly detect and respond to a deadly Nipah virus outbreak. Also this year, during the United Nations General Assembly in New York, the United States announced the AMR Challenge – a global initiative to combat the growing threat of antibiotic resistance (AR or AMR). This unprecedented challenge, led by HHS and CDC, charges global stakeholders like pharmaceutical and health insurance companies, food animal producers and purchasers, medical professionals, government health officials and other leaders from around the world to take meaningful actions to address antibiotic resistance. The UN also held its first high level meeting on ending tuberculosis, which contributes to one third of the world’s cases. The CDC is on the forefront of efforts to expand TB preventive treatment. CDC, as part of the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, is supporting the push to provide TB preventive treatment to five million people globally living with HIV by 2020 and is developing new tools for finding and treating eligible children. 2019: See the possible No one knows what the next health threat will be or where it will arise. What is certain is there will be future health threats – and that CDC will be on the frontlines. “CDC remains committed to use science to protect the health of all people,” said Dr. Redfield. “The opioid epidemic continues to be the public health crisis of our time, and this is reflected in the recent CDC mortality data. In addition, nearly 80,000 Americans died last year from influenza; I ask all Americans to take action now to protect their own health by getting a flu shot for themselves and their families. CDC will be hard at work to combat these and other urgent threats in the upcoming year.”

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Own your health in 2019 News from CSKT’s Tribal Health Department

tion month occurs. Support victims during upcoming events and activities. Schedule an eye exam with Tribal Health. May - Mental Health month is observed. Get scheduled for an appointment with Tribal Health’s mental health specialists. Join a Tribal Health support group. Participate in the Women 4 Wellness event. Schedule an annual pap and HPV test. June – The Men’s Health Fair event happens. Schedule an annual prostate-cancer screening exam. Get your blood pressure read. July – The Celebration of Sobriety is honored along with the Strengthening Our Families events. Participate with your family in these annual events. Schedule a hearing test with Tribal Health. August - National Breastfeeding Awareness month takes place along with the National Immunization Awareness month. Make sure you and your children are up to date with immunizations. September – Suicide Prevention Week occurs this month. Learn about Tribal Health resources to help families deal with suicides. Dispose of unused medications at a Tribal Health Pharmacy dropbox. October – Breast Cancer Awareness Month is held. Get your mammogram scheduled today. Domestic Violence Awareness month is also happening during this month. Stay posted for events and activities. November - Diabetes Care Day is scheduled.

ST. IGNATIUS – Tribal Health announces a new health initiative for recipients in 2019 called Own Your Health. Each month during 2019, Tribal Health will offer services or events directly to eligible recipients as a way to encourage the community to take charge of their health, get involved in healthy activities, get medical treatments and testing, to support every person’s goal of living a healthy lifestyle. First, recipients are asked to pick up an Own Your Health pass. Whenever a recipient participates in an event or activity, an authorized Tribal Health employee will stamp their pass accordingly. At the end of the year, if recipients have participated in at least nine activities or services, they are eligible to enter into a grand prize drawing (prize to be announced). Event and activities for each month: January - Get a physical and schedule an exam with your primary care provider to start 2019 in a good way. February – Attend the Go Red for Women event. Get your blood pressure read. Walking the REZ starts. Get a pedometer and start walking. March – This is National Nutrition Month. Join a Tribal Health cooking class to learn about healthy food options and work out with a certified Krystal wasCenter. born and raised in the Mission Valley, and has over 25 years of trainer at a Tribal Health Fitness next page April Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevendental experience. She takes pride in carefully assessing eachsee patients individ Piedalue!

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Own your health from page 6

Get your blood glucose levels tested, join Kidney Keepers, celebrate the Great American Smokeout and call Tribal Health to learn how to stop smoking. December - National Flu Vaccination week occurs this month along with World AIDS Day. Get your flu shot. Get tested for HIV. Additionally, recipients are encouraged to get a Health Partner (a family member or friend who can help them stay focused on their health during the year); recipients can also make health goals, record health achievements and get appropriate immunizations (such as the flu shot) throughout the year. To pick up an Own Your Health pass, starting Jan. 4, visit any of the Tribal Health Centers in Elmo, Hot Springs, Polson, Ronan, St. Ignatius, Arlee, and the Salish Kootenai College or any of the Tribal Health Fitness Centers in Elmo, Ronan, St. Ignatius or Arlee. For more information, call Tribal Health at 406-745-3525. Tribal Health of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes provides comprehensive health care services to recipients including audiology/speech; behavioral health; dental; medical; nursing; optical; pharmacy; physical therapy; radiology; and wellness across a rich network on the Flathead Indian Reservation. Tribal Health is dedicated to a promise that every Tribal Health recipient receives high-quality health care grounded in tribal values — supporting each recipient’s journey of “Being in a Good Way.”

By Mary Auld for the Valley Journal

LAKE COUNTY – Most nights of the week, groups of people in the Mission Valley gather in weight rooms or yoga studios, building community and variety into routines that improve their health. While group fitness classes can be a great way to get moving, it can be hard to know where to start. The solution can be as simple as making the effort to try out a class. “Just do it,” advises Tawna Steele, who teaches group fitness classes through the Ronan School District’s adult education program. With 35 years as an instructor under her belt, Steele says group fitness classes can serve absolutely anyone. She is certified to teach a wide variety of fitness classes and offers a unique selection during each of Ronan’s adult education sessions. For example, this winter she is offering a “funky flow” class, which combines some elements of yoga with weights and dance. She’ll also lead a 5:30 a.m. circuit class with unique circuits composed of exercise machines, weights and cardio each week. Steele said her classes help students work hard while having fun. Adult education classes are an affordable way to try out a variety of new activities during the school year. The classes are held at public schools throughout the area, before or after the school day. Another option for group fitness is a traditional yoga class. Bonnie Kiser is the owner and teacher at Montana Om Yoga. She teaches group yoga classes in Polson and St. Ignatius. “Yoga is defined as bringing together mind, body and spirit,” Kiser said. According to Kiser, yoga is best for those interested in focusing on two distinct areas of fitness: range of motion and balance. During each class, she leads her students through a variety of intentional poses. Kiser also provides students with strategies for managing stress and emotional well being. Steele said the health benefits of her group fitness classes are broad, from strengthening muscles to managing diabetes to increasing longevity. Students begin group fitness classes for a variety of reasons. Kiser said many of her students use yoga to recover from an

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Adult education classes are an affordable way to try out a variety of new activities during the school year. injury or an emotional struggle. Others improve their flexibility or maintain physical fitness as they age. At Montana Om Yoga, Kiser encourages her students to recognize the strengths they bring to their yoga practice. “We practice not to become someone or something different. We practice to become more of what we already are,” Kiser quoted from one of her favorite yoga teachers. Both instructors said their classes provide an opportunity to participate in a fitness community. Kiser and Steele welcome students of all physical fitness levels and ages to their classes. Steele and Kiser provide options that allow students from beginners to experts to have a fulfilling, challenging class. Curiosity and a willingness to explore are the only prerequisites for attending classes, the instructors said. Yoga classes are beneficial because they provide a welcoming environment for practice, Kiser said. “When people come in here they get to be who they are in the moment, rather than their title or responsibilities. It’s a very distraction-free place.” Encouragement is built into Steele’s classes as well. “I always congratulate my class for showing up,” Steele said. She wants her students to think of themselves as a team, working toward a common goal of health and fitness. Steele said the group dynamic serves an additional function: her students hold each other accountable for showing up and working hard. “We’re just one big huge team tackling fitness goals together,” Steele said. To sign up for adult education classes, visit the website of the school where you’re interested in attending a class. The Montana Om Yoga class schedule can be found at the studio’s website, montanaomyoga.com. See Dr. Katie for your

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Isn’t It Time To Be Your Best? January 16, 2019 - 7

Preventative care can stave off medical issues, lower health costs By Rob Zolman / Valley Journal

magine operating your motor vehicle for three years without regular routine maintenance. Now, imagine the hefty costs you would incur for repairs and damages for ignoring the car. Not a fun image, right? Dr. Cara Harrop of pureHealth DPC in Polson explained that your health requires the same kind of preventative attention. Harrop’s emphasis on prevention is widely touted by healthcare professionals and backed by research. In a 2013 Institute of Health Metrics report, individuals taking advantage of preventive healthcare measures and screenings were able to address potentially serious medical conditions or avoid them and significantly increase their life expec-

tancy. Early detection also saves money and reduces out-of-pocket medical expenses. “Generally, preventative medicine refers to those appointments that are focused on preventing disease or screening for illnesses that give us an opportunity to make a significant difference in your life if we catch them early,” Harrop said. She said the US Preventative Services Task Force developed a list of recommended screen-

Dr. Cara Harrop pureHealth DPC

ing tests that are sorted by age and supported by studies demonstrating that the test is both sensitive and specific for the disease in question and is affordable or accessible to most people. The following is a small sample of preventative care measures. – Vaccines for all ages – Blood pressure screenings for all ages – Type 2 diabetes screenings for adults who have high blood pressure – Alcohol misuse screenings and counseling for adults and adolescents – Depression screenings for all ages

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Prevention from page 8

– Diet counseling for adults at high risk for chronic disease – Obesity screenings and counseling for all ages – HIV screenings and counseling – Breast cancer mammogram screenings every one to two years for women over 40 – Contraception for women with reproductive capacity – Cervical cancer screenings for sexually active women – Vision screenings for all children – Autism screenings for children at 18 and 24 months According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, all individuals should undergo an annual comprehensive physical exam that includes height, weight and blood pressure assessments. Other screening recommendations are based on age and gender. Glucose screening for type 2 diabetes should begin by age 40. At age 50, all individuals should be screened for colorectal cancer. “Every year, more studies are published that demonstrate that we can improve the quality of someone’s life if we diagnose a disease or condition early and save them a lot of money,” Harrop said. “Colon cancer is the best example I can think of. If you catch colon cancer when it’s just an abnormal polyp, the colonoscopy cures the condition – no expensive surgery, chemotherapy or radiation and no significant time lost from work or from your life.”

NICOLE TAVENNER / VALLEY JOURNAL

Wholistic Healing is a new primary care clinic in Ronan where nurse practitioner Amy Johnson pairs treatment with preventative care and alternative therapies.

'Wholistic Healing' brings new medical perspective to Ronan By Mary Auld for the Valley Journal

urse practitioner Amy Johnson’s goal is to turn the role of medicine on its head by changing the way things are traditionally done with her new health center on Main Street. Wholistic Healing is a place where medical professionals are focused on treatment and prevention using a combination of modern medicine and alternative therapies to support a patient’s complete well-being. The health center is a primary care clinic providing all the services that any other doctor Amy Johnson would. The difference is Nurse practitioner, that it pairs treatment for Wholistic Healing medical conditions with preventative care and alternative therapies. Each patient receives the services best suited to their unique situation and needs. Johnson works with acupuncturists, massage therapists and behavioral health professionals to support her patients’ full well-being. A nutrition and exercise program will soon be added to the clinic’s services.

KAREN PETERSON / VALLEY JOURNAL

Johnson had always dreamed of having her own clinic but said she feared the risk of starting her own business. After her daughter passed away in June 2018, she decided to pursue her dream. “I decided that life is short, and I have to take a chance,” she said.

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For Johnson, the healthcare system had become too occupied with following rules and regulations to truly support a patient’s needs. She wanted to work with her patients and help them consider adding alternative treatments like massage into treatment plans. Before developing her health center, she decided her practice would focus on building relationships with patients, and when she made that decision, she was also starting to study the holistic healthcare model and alternative forms of therapy. Through research, her philosophy about healthcare changed. “We can get a lot of people off these prescription drugs,” she said. The process involves getting people to take better care of themselves on every level. Johnson’s vision is to bring all kinds of healthcare elements together in her clinic. She said she takes the time to get to know each of her patient’s needs and to understand their background. Her goal is to support the “mind, body and spirit” of each patient. She works to understand the complexities of her patients’ lives and finds ways to minimize factors that work against health. She said she believes that preventative, holistic healthcare will become more prevalent in the United States in the near future. see next page

January 16, 2019 - 9

MSU to host two-day personal trainer certification workshop

'Wholistic Healing' from Health & Fitness page 9

Opening Wholistic Healing is one step in Johnson’s long career in the field of healthcare. Johnson grew up in Ronan, and she fell in love with anatomy and physiology as a nursing student in Arizona. She worked as an intensive care unit and emergency room nurse in Arizona before moving back to Ronan to raise her children in her hometown. She worked at St. Joseph Medical Center in Polson and then moved to St. Luke Community Healthcare where she worked for six years until deciding to open her own practice. Johnson earned a degree as a nurse practitioner while she worked at St. Luke. Becoming a patient at Wholistic Healing is easy, she said. The clinic accepts walk-ins and appointments. Patients can use health insurance from all the major companies, along with Medicaid, Medicare and Tribal Health. Wholistic Healing is open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday. According to Johnson, people are responding to her vision as she had hoped. The clinic opened on Oct. 1, and Johnson said the business has taken off. “People love the environment here. It’s cozy, friendly and relaxed so they feel like they’re a person and not a number,” she said.

From MSU News Service

BOZEMAN – Montana State University will host a two-day personal trainer workshop and certification Feb. 23-24 at the Hosaeus Fitness Center on campus. MSU is co-sponsoring the workshop with the nonprofit National Exercise Trainers Association. NETA’s trainer will cover exercise science review, communication skills, exercise programming, health assessments and other topics. The workshop will include demonstrations and practical application of one-on-one training. The workshop runs 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 23, and from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Feb. 24. Registered attendees will take a written exam for a two-year NETA Personal Trainer Certification, which is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies. The fee for the workshop is $399 until Jan. 24, when the fee increases to $449. To register, call 800-237-6242 or visit netafit.org.

NICOLE TAVENNER / VALLEY JOURNAL

A two-day personal trainer workshop and certification will be held Feb. 23-24 at the Montana State University Hosaeus Fitness Center on campus in Bozeman.

Two Polson Locations www.stlukehealthcare.org Care forService a Lifetime One Great

St. Luke Community Clinic Southshore St. Community ClinicHealthcare Ridgewater has been St.Luke Luke Community committed to meeting the 104 Rufus Lane (406) 883-2555 107 Ridgewater Drive (406) 883-3737 Mission Valley’s healthcare needs for more 65 years. Samethan Day Appointments Available

Ridgewater Providers

Southshore Providers

St. Luke Community Hospital 676-4441 KE COMMUNITY HEALTHCARE DELIVERS ST. LUKE COMMUNITY HEALTHCARE DELIVERS CONTACT US St. Luke Extended Care 676-2900 Heather Jones, M.D. are Walk-in Convenient Care Tyler Thorson, M.D. Mike Schallock, PA-CSt. Luke Community St. Luke Community Hospital 676-4441 Emergency Care Clinic – Ronan 676-3600 Services Surgical Services Paul Gochis, M.D. St. Luke Extended Care 676-2900 Mariah Bonner, D.O. Orthopedic Services 883-2555 Claire Nickless PA-CSt. Luke Community Clinic – Polson Therapy Occupational and Speech Therapy St. Luke Community Clinic - Ronan 676-3600 Respiratory TherapyD.O. Kelli Larson, St. Luke Community Clinic – St. Ignatius 745-2781 Velk, PA-C St. Luke Community ClinicMary - Southshore (Polson) 883-2555 rapy/Fitness Center Extended Center Care Facility Physical Therapy/Fitness St. Luke Community Oxygen & Durable Equipment 676-5531 St. Luke Community Clinic - Ridgewater (Polson) 8833737 DurablePrimary Medical Equipment ical Equipment Primary Care Care Services Obstetrics Well Child Checks St. Luke Community HealthcareClinic Foundation 528-5324 St. Luke Community St. Ignatius 745-2781 Obstetrics Radiology St. Luke Community Oxygen & Durable Equipment 676-5531 Walk-in Convenient Care St. Luke Community Healthcare Foundation 528-5324 Surgical Services Extended Care Facility Primary Care Radiology Occupational and Speech Therapy www.stlukehealthcare.org

St. Luke Two Polson Locations Community Healthcare One Great Service

St. Luke Community Clinic Ridgewater 107 Ridgewater Drive (406) 883-3737 10 - January 16, 2019

St. Health Luke Community Clinic Southshore & Fitness 104 Rufus Lane (406) 883-2555 Same Day Appointments Available

For information call Flathead Transit READ DOWN READ UP

COURTESY PHOTO

Those attending the award presentation include, from left, Tyler Arlint, elementary principal; Robert Mazurek, Lake County Public Health Department; Mary Leishman, school board member; Peter Matt, school board member; J.P. Thomas, school board member; Jason Sargent, superintendent; and Shawn Hendrickson, middle school and high school principal.

St. Ignatius school awarded for tobacco free rating News from the Lake County Public Health Department

ST. IGNATIUS – Lake County Public Health Department, on behalf of the Montana Office of Public Instruction, proudly

announced at the December St. Ignatius School Board meeting that the St. Ignatius School District has been added to the list of Montana Tobacco Free School Districts of Excellence. The school district was presented with a certificate, banner and new signage.

Kalispell Regional announces new President, CEO News from Kalispell Regional Healthcare

KALISPELL – Kalispell Regional Healthcare board of trustees on Jan. 10 announced the selection of Craig Lambrecht, MD, MPH, MBA, MHSA, FACEP, as the system’s new President and Chief Executive Officer. Lambrecht officially begins his position in early February. “The KRH board of trustees is confident that Dr. Lambrecht has the right mix of skills and experience to compassionately lead our organization out of a difficult time and into a bright future," said KRH board of trustees chair Dennis Sabo. Lambrecht received his doctor of medicine from the University of North Dakota School of Medicine and completed his emergency medicine residency at the Medical College of Wisconsin. He later received a master of science in health services administration, a master of public health and a master of business administration. He first assumed a health

care leadership role as senior chief medical officer in 2002 with the North Dakota Department of Health. Lambrecht later served multiple roles at Medcenter One health system in Bismarck, North Dakota, including emergency department chair, corporate medical director, chief operating officer and Craig Lambrecht president and chief executive officer. He was later selected to lead the region as president of Sanford West, a member of the Sanford Health System, a position he has held since 2012. Lambrecht served in a variety of leadership roles during his United States National Guard 30-year tenure, which included two combat missions in Iraq. He is the recipient of numerous awards for exemplary service, including an Army Commendation medal, a

Meritorious Service medal, the United States Army Legion of Merit award, the Army Commendation medal for support of Iraqi Freedom, the North Dakota National Guard Governor’s Legion of Merit award and the War on Terrorism Expeditionary medal. He is a fellow of the American College of Emergency Physicians, a delegate to the American Hospital Association, a member of the Montana Medical Association, a member of the North Dakota Medical Association, an advisory council member of the University of North Dakota School of Medicine and a member of the American Board of Emergency Medicine. When not at work, Lambrecht enjoys ranching, hunting and spending time outdoors. "I’m confident that KRH is positioned for a healthy future," Lambrecht said. "I’m committed to working with the board, executive team, medical staff and employees to fulfill our mission to the level our patients and families expect and deserve.”

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January 16, 2019 - 11

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