Our City Plantation - October 2022

Paid for and approved by Nick Sortal for Plantation Mayor

they’ve

know why our life at The Palace is problem-free?

friends with the owners.”

Imagine a health plan with doctors who put you first. BECAUSE WE CARE.

At CarePlus, we use value-based care to help you get the quality health care you deserve. That means we partner with doctors based1 on how well they treat their patients.

As one of Medicare’s top rated plans in Florida,2 CarePlus helps you see doctors who care as much as we do.

N. Pine Island

FL 33322

Plaza Medical Centers accepts CarePlus Health Plans and offers:

• Coordination with specialists

• Urgent or same-day appointments

• Management of long-term conditions

Choose a CarePlus plan with the benefits you need, such as:

$0 copay for primary care physician office visits and lab services

$0 copay for routine dental, vision and hearing coverage

$0 to low copay for Tier 1 and Tier 2 prescription drug coverage

Provider may also contract with other Plans/Part D sponsors. South and North Florida, Tampa, Orlando and Daytona areas, and Space Coast. CarePlus is an HMO plan with a Medicare contract.Enrollment in CarePlus depends on contract renewal. 1https://www.cms.gov/Medicare/Quality-Initiatives-Patient-Assessment-Instruments/Value-Based-Programs/Value-Based-Programs.

2Every year, Medicare evaluates plans based on a 5-star rating system. Other providers are available in our network. Important: At CarePlus, it is important you are treated fairly. CarePlus HealthPlans, Inc. complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, sex, sexual orientation, gender, genderidentity, disability, age, marital status, religion, or language in their programs and activities, including in admission or access to, or treatment or employment in, their programs and activities. Thefollowing department has been designated to handle inquiries regarding CarePlus’ non-discrimination policies: Member Services, PO Box 277810, Miramar, FL 33027, 1-800-794-5907 (TTY:711). Auxiliary aids and services, free of charge, are available to you. 1-800-794-5907 (TTY: 711). CarePlus provides free auxiliary aids and services, such as qualified sign language interpreters,video remote interpretation, and written information in other formats to people with disabilities when such auxiliary aids and services are necessary to ensure an equal opportunity to participate.This information is available for free in other languages. Please call our Member Services number at 1-800-794-5907. Hours of operation: October 1 - March 31, 7 days a week, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.April 1 - September 30, Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. You may leave a voicemail after hours, Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays and we will return your call within one business day. Español(Spanish): Esta información está disponible de forma gratuita en otros idiomas. Favor de llamar a Servicios para Afiliados al número que aparece anteriormente. Kreyòl Ayisyen (French Creole):Enfòmasyon sa a disponib gratis nan lòt lang. Tanpri rele nimewo Sèvis pou Manm nou yo ki nan lis anwo an.

Caligiuri, Adrienne

Caleb Furlong, Mariem Garcia, Carlos Medina, Kenny Rodgers, Silvia Silva

Chief

Duka, Dr. Miguel E. Cordova, DVM, Dr. Maria Grosman,

Jaillet, Ivis Mateos,

Dr. Jean Nerette, Kalai Ramu, Dean Sklar, Rose Sklar, Daniel J. Stermer, Dr. Jane Therrien

Muniz,

Salutes Healthcare Heroes

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month. Each year, we see the color pink in unexpected places. Whether it’s high school foot ball players wearing pink socks to salute a mom’s struggle or a coworker adorning their shirt with a pink ribbon, the global Breast Cancer Awareness campaign has shone a light on breast cancer and helped raise billions in research funding.

Breast Cancer has impacted the Our City Media family as well. We have had family mem bers struggle with a diagnosis and recover and have seen others succumb to the disease. One thing we saw again and again, however, was the tireless efforts of healthcare workers. These men and women have dedicated their lives to help people live as healthily as possible.

According to the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity, there are almost 1 million Floridians employed in the healthcare sector. There are 83,000 doctors, 190,000 nurses, 66,000 EMTs and Paramedics, and hundreds of thousands of support staff.

These “front line” workers have been asked to do more in the past three years than at any time in a generation. We decided to recognize a few of these “Healthcare Heroes” in this month’s Our City magazine. Turn to page 23 to learn more about some of the people who are making an impact in the community. It is nice to know they are there for us when we need them.

Thank You to all of the healthcare professionals who are helping us live our best lives from all of us at Our City Media.

Sincerely,

Calendar

OCTOBER 1

Plantation Farmers’ Market

There is something for everyone! Bring the kids and the pup but make sure to have masks & maintain social distancing. Fresh produce, organically grown veggies, fresh fruit, herbs, tasty fresh bread, chocolate croissants, raw honey from local farmers, gourmet jams, fried doughnuts, pickles, cookies, coffee, homemade hummus, gour met cheese, guacamole dips, plants, and or chids, there’s something here for everyone. Farmers’ Market is held every Saturday from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm at the Plantation Volunteer Park, 12050 W Sunrise Blvd.

OCTOBER 8

Reading Under The Stars

Bring your toddlers and meet us under the stars for story time at Deicke Park on Saturday, October 8th from 7:00 pm - 7:45 pm. After storytime there will be a dance party as well as arts & crafts for children to do. Hosted at Deicke Park, 1200 NW 106th Ave. For info call 954-452-2510. Price is $5 per child.

OCTOBER 9

Fishing Derby

Get your young one out to the lake at Central Park for our 2022 Fishing Derby! Pre-registration is required for all of our young anglers. Three categories will be rewarded with prizes: Heaviest Catch, Lon gest Catch, and Most Catches. The price is $10 per angler. 8:00 am - 11:00 am at Plantation Central Park, 9151 NW 2nd Street. For info call 954-452-2510.

OCTOBER 5

Hump Day Food Trucks

Skip the cooking on Wednesday evenings and instead pick up delicious food at the Drive-Thru Food Truck Event! 5:00 PM9:00 PM every Wednesday at Volunteer Park, 12050 W Sunrise Blvd. For more info call 954-797-2200.

OCTOBER 8-9

11th Annual Brazilian Festival

“A Love Letter to the Amazon Forest and the many Cultures of Brazil.” Florida’s most tra ditional multicultural festival is back at Sny der Park, in Fort Lauderdale. International Concerts, Samba Dancers, Carnival Rides, 100 Exhibitors, and Food Vendors. The Amazing Journey into Brazil’s Art, Culture, Tradition and Cuisine, From the traditional Brazilian “Rodizio, Churrasco, Vatapa, Pao de Queijo e Pastel” to the Sweet Dream of “Brigadeiros, Cocadas, Doce de leite, e Pamonha”. This is the taste of the Brazilian Cuisine featured by all the small business es of Broward in tents especially created to offer a dream day in Brazil’s Flavor-land. Hosted at Snyder Park, 3299 SW 4th Ave, Fort Lauderdale. For tickets and more info visit www.brazilianfestival.org.

OCTOBER 10

Flamingo Gardens Orchid Society

Flamingo Gardens Orchid Society in the Learning Center at Flamingo Gardens. This month is Orchid Bingo! Come and have a fun evening playing Bingo and winning Or chids or orchid-related supplies along with a raffle where you will have another chance to win prizes. Whether you are a beginner or a more seasoned grower you are wel come to attend the meetings. Hosted at the Mary Porter Learning Center at Flamingo Gardens, 3750 S. Flamingo Rd., Davie, FL 33330. Doors open at 7:00 pm, the pro gram begins at 7:30 pm. For info visit www. flamingogardensorchidsociety.com

An Ea rly START is the BEST START

confident

October 2022 Calendar

OCTOBER 26-30

Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show

Family Fall Festival

The City of Plantation Parks & Recreation, Police and Fire Departments along with the Plantation Chamber of Commerce present The Fall Family Festival. This event features a Children’s Carnival, Inflatables, Pumpkin Patch, Petting Zoo, DJ Entertain ment, Police & Fire Safety Exhibits, Canine Demonstrations, Costume Contests, Pony Rides, Magician, Games and Activities for the entire family. 10:00 am - 2:00 pm at Volunteer Park Community Center 12050 W. Sunrise Blvd. $5 admission.

more info, call the Parks & Recreation Department at 954-452-2506.

The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show is the greatest boat show on the seven seas. Located steps from the beach in sunny South Florida, FLIBS spans nearly 90 acres across three million square feet of exhibit space that is connected by an intricate network of water and ground transportation services. The five-day show attracted over 100,000 attendees and 1,000 exhibitors representing 52 countries with more than 1,300 boats on display in 2021. Products range from sunglasses to superyachts and everything in between.

OCTOBER 29

Boo Bash Trick or Treat

Celebrate safely at the FREE, family-friend ly Halloween party! There will be themed trick-or-treat stations throughout the park, as well as a DJ, games, activities, photo ops, and food vendors. Dress up to take part in our costume contest, and bring an empty bag for your candy haul! Hosted at Sunrise City Park, 6600 Sunset Strip, Sun rise, from 5:00 pm till 8:00 pm. For more info call 954-741-2580.

OCTOBER 27-30

Saint David’s Carnival

St. David Catholic Church welcomes every one to the annual fall carnival. Patrons are invited to advertise and attend the 4-day event at 3900 S. University Drive in Davie. Rides, live entertainment, shopping, freshly prepared food, and more. Discount tickets are now on sale. For times and more infor mation, please call 954-475-8046 or visit www.saintdavid.org.

OCTOBER 22

Trick or Trot 5K

Hit the road at the sixth annual Hallow een-themed 5K and Kids’ Dash! Participants of all ages and abilities are welcome, and costumes are encouraged! Runners/walkers will receive the coveted Trick or Trot treats: a commemorative medal and a t-shirt. (Shirts are available in youth medium, youth large, and adult sizes.) The gun will go off to start the race at 7:30 am at Markham Park. Follow the QR code to register. For more info call the Sunrise Leisure Services Department at 954-747-4600.

OCTOBER 31

Happy Halloween

Trick or Treating will likely be a bit different this year than in years past. Kids will still be dressing up, playing games, and maybe even playing a trick or two on a friend or family member. Have fun and stay safe!

Pick Nick for Plantation Mayor

Nick Sortal will listen to you and deliver results

What keeps Nick Sortal awake at night? He’s always thinking about ways to help people.

An energetic Plantation City Council member for four years, Sortal is an optimistic extrovert.

“Whenever there is an event, you know Nick will be there,” says one supporter. “He’s here, he’s there, he’s everywhere.”

His enthusiasm, leadership qualities and experience make him the best choice for Plantation mayor.

Sortal has studied every aspect of the city and communicates daily with department heads, such as the police chief, parks director and building director. A former South Florida Sun Sentinel journalist, Sortal researches all sides of an issue and acts with integrity.

A LEADER WHO RESPONDS

Sortal loves listening and solving people’s problems.

“Most importantly, I ask our residents what they want,” he says.

The No. 1 request, he says, is to stop apartment construction.

“People are vocal about it,” Sortal says. “To truly be a public servant, I must listen to the people.”

Other areas he plans to address as mayor are short-term vacation rentals, code enforcement and a

cumbersome permitting process.

Key on Sortal’s radar is ensuring that the police and fire departments keep pace with the city’s growing needs.

SCHOOL ADVOCATE

As a council member, Sortal helped revive the city’s Education Advisory Board, where principals and parents inform the city of school accomplishments and challenges.

Sortal, who was a percussionist in college, produced an online concert in 2021 showcasing Plantation’s music teachers.

The Plantation Palooza event raised $5,000 for

scholarships for Take Stock in Children. He also is proud of recruiting retirees to tutor children at Mirror Lake Elementary.

Whether it’s the first day of school, advisory meetings, sporting events, musical productions, career days, or just a quick civics lesson, students and teachers can count on Sortal to be there.

RESPECT AND TRANSPARENCY

Sortal says his popularity in Plantation has grown because of his responsiveness to residents. He answers questions via phone, email and on Facebook. He’ll expand on

this as mayor.

“First off, I want office hours,” he says. “Any resident can book a Zoom segment between, say, 4 to 6 p.m. Wednesdays. And I’ll continue to attend every event I possibly can to listen to people.”

He wants City Hall to establish a Help Call Desk to provide residents with better direction to meet their needs. Sortal’s goal is to bring new energy to City Hall for employees and residents.

Sortal entered city government with decades of roots in Plantation — as a PAL coach, Relay for Life volunteer, HOA and school activist.

Sortal compares his managerial style to team sports.

“I’ll be the quarterback,” he says. “If we’re planning traffic, the ball goes to the city engineer. If we’re working on public safety, the police and fire chiefs and I will team up.”

He has been active and involved, clear about what he wants to accomplish and someone who doesn’t need to get the credit for a job well done.

“We have a ton of talented city employees,” he says. “The buck will stop with me, but I will respect the abilities of people who have experience in their roles. I can’t wait to get started.”

Learn more at NickSortal. com. To donate, go to NickSortal.com/donate.

AROUND TOWN: Pick Nick walkers pose alongside the Sortal Victory Van in the July Fourth parade, Relay for Life sponsor, Earth Day celebration, first day of school greeter

AS MAYOR, SORTAL WILL:

Ensure police and fire rescue staffs keep pace with our growing needs

Build community with more events at parks

Work with police, code enforcement and zoning to keep party homes in line

Expand with residents about city business

AS COUNCIL MEMBER, SORTAL:

Helped revive the city’s Education Advisory

important

residents to navigate city resident since 1993, with wife, Robyn; three adult children; two sons-in-law; and three at the Sun Sentinel (1985-2015) covering community news, entertainment

2020. Set record in 2020 for most votes in city election, with more than 25,000

Community activities: Take Stock in Children board member, Chamber of Commerce, Craig’s Pantry, Friends of Library, triathlete

University 1980 graduate with degrees in math and to Plantation City Council in 2018 and

at

take

in

December 4th. The

5K will run/ walk

The race is dedicated to the life and giving of local hero Aden Perry. Aden lived life as a selfless and caring young man. On April 19, 2022, Aden gave the most selfless gift as he dove into a canal to save someone who had crashed in the canal.

As anyone who knows Aden, they understand his immediate reaction was to jump in and help someone he did not even know. Aden will forever be a hero; his legacy will continue through his foundation and this 5K.

Proceeds from the race will provide students with backpacks, school supplies, SAT tutoring and more.

School supply donations will also be accepted at the race. The Aden Perry Foundation will provide educational tools to South Florida students. The foundation will provide free tutoring to students looking to improve test scores and ensure their success in life.

▸ Scan the QR Code to register for the 5K Honoring Aden Perry. If you are interested in sponsorship opportunities, call Danny Howard at 954-835-5929 or email grant.summers@ victorysportsmgt.com

LOCAL VOLUNTEER RECEIVES NATIONAL RECOGNITION from the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network

Barbara Effman was awarded the Volunteer Award for Excellence in Advocacy by the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) in recognition of her efforts to help make cancer a national priority.

Each year, a lead volunteer who has consistently demonstrated strong leadership while advocating in areas of cancer-related public policy receives this award.

“Barbara has demonstrated an unrelenting com mitment to reducing death and suffering caused by cancer throughout her impressive tenure as a lead ACS CAN volunteer,” said Lisa Lacasse, president of ACS CAN. “It’s because of her tremendous reputation as a strategic and effective cancer advocate that she has achieved extraordinary strides toward implementing meaningful legislation to save lives from this disease in Florida and nationwide. ACS CAN – and by extension, all those that we advocate on behalf of – are beyond fortunate to have Barbara on our side.”

Barbara has been a committed volunteer leader for ACS CAN, the largest national cancer advocacy organization, for over 35 impactful years. Through the decades, she’s raised thousands of dollars, participated in numerous and historic wins for the Sunshine State,

and been an active member of the many local ACS and ACS CAN boards.

“Barbara truly exemplifies what it means to be a fully integrated volunteer who spends countless hours forwarding our mission,” noted Natalie Kliné, Florida Senior Grassroots Manager. “Her personable and dedicated nature has established strong relationships that have turned to the immense community and legislative influence she holds today. I’ve been lucky to see her work and turn the tides at crucial debates and moments over the years. There’s no question her advocacy efforts alone have helped save thousands of Floridians’ lives.”

At the event, internal staff recounted special moments where Barabara’s relationships have run deep with lawmakers regularly sending their regards for relentless advocacy.

The award was presented on Sept. 11 as part of the annual ACS CAN Leadership Summit and Lobby Day. Nearly 700 cancer patients, survivors, and their loved ones met in-person for the first time since 2019 with their elected officials on Sept. 13 to urge them to make cancer a national priority.

▸ ABOUT ACS CAN

The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) is making cancer a top priority for public officials and candidates at the federal, state, and local levels. ACS CAN empowers advocates across the country to make their voices heard and influence evidence-based public policy change as well as legislative and regulatory solutions that will reduce the cancer burden. As the American Cancer Society’s nonprofit, nonpartisan advocacy affiliate, ACS CAN is critical to the fight for a world without cancer. For more information, visit www.fightcancer.org.

Family Fall Festival

The City of Plantation Parks & Recreation, Police and Fire Departments, and the Plantation Chamber of Commerce will host the 2022 Fall Family Festival at Volunteer Park. This family-favorite annual event features a children’s carnival, inflatables, pumpkin patch, petting zoo, DJ enter tainment, Police & Fire safety exhibits,

police canine demonstrations, hay rides costume contests, pony rides, a magic show, games, and activities for the entire family.

Parents are invited to get the little ones dressed up for this Halloween “dress rehearsal.” It is a morning of great fun.

The festival is one of the many events sponsored by the Plantation Parks and Recreation Department, whose vision is to become a premier destination park system that welcomes and engages residents and visitors. Through parks and recreation services, we seek to enhance the quality of life and nurture the health and well-being of our community, our environment and our economy.

Admission is $5.00 per person, two years old or older, with festivities kicking off at 10:00 am. The festival will take place at Volunteer Park, 12050 W. Sunrise Boulevard.

YOUR FIRST CALL TO GET HELP

Did you know there is a resource to help every person living in Broward County find the resources they need? Just dial 211 on your phone to become connected to 211 Broward. They can help you find food, housing, health care, elder care services, child care, legal aid, mental health support, and much more.

211 Broward is the only 24/7 comprehensive agency in the county that provides individuals and families with all of the critical connections to health and human service services they need in just one call, chat, email, or text. This 24-hour helpline is available to every individual and family in Broward County!

211 is a free, anonymous, 24-hour helpline offering listening support, information, referral, and crisis services. Their professional, degreed staff connects people in need with nearly 3,800 programs and services that are available to help

them. Bilingual staff and telephone interpreter services ensure that callers can talk with us in the language of their choice.

211 offers people access to a variety of resources including:

• Crisis and Suicide Care

• Mental Health Services

• Substance Abuse Treatment

• Military and Veteran Services

• Health and Wellness Referrals

• Sexual Health Services

DEALS!

• COVID-19 Assistance

• Confidential Help for Teens

• New Parent Help

• Older Adult and Adult Caregiver Services

• Much more…

211 is available to help people in almost any circumstances. 211 Broward was established

as a 501(c)(3) in 1995. Every hour of every day, someone in Broward searches for help or services. Knowing where to go is the first step to getting your needed help.

▸ If you need help for any reason, dial 211 on your mobile phone today

They

They

Anand Vakharia, MD

PRIMARY CARE

Broward Community Medical Center

Dr. Anand Vakharia is a boardcertified primary care physician with extensive experience in both inpatient hospitalist medicine, as well as outpatient family practice. He has practiced medicine in Wisconsin, North Carolina, and New York. Most recently, he served as Medical Director at Mount St. Mary’s Hospital in Lewiston NY, where he was also named Regional Medical Director of the Year for all of Western NY.

Dr. Vakharia had always dreamed of return ing home to serve the community he grew up in, while working alongside his father. Dr. Vijay Vakharia, a board-certified physician in both internal medicine and cardiology, has practiced medicine in Broward County for over thirty years. Taking care of patients and helping people live their healthiest lives is a family affair. Together their practice strives to provide comprehensive and compassionate care to the local community.

Dr. Anand Vakharia was drawn to primary care at an early age. He shadowed his father often, and witnessed first-hand the trust and respect that his patients gave him, and the quality of care that was expected. He also had the privilege of attending several medical missions which further reinforced the impact of empathetic health care on not the patient but their entire family. “These experiences were enriching and humbling, and I returned from each with a broader perspective in treating patients at home.”

Today, Dr. Vakharia practices Primary Care at Broward Community Medical Center in Plantation.

To make an appointment with Dr. Anand Vakharia call 954-747-7373 or visit www.bcmcfl.com.

Andrea Bretal, MD

OWNER & MEDICAL DIRECTOR

Weston Medical Health & Wellness

Dr. Andrea Bretal opened Weston Medical Health & Wellness with one goal in mind: to help people live health ier and more fulfilling lives. It only made sense to locate the holistic clinic, which focuses on obesity medicine in Weston.

Dr. Bretal’s practice combines nutritional counseling with integrative medicine to help men and women of all ages achieve success with lasting weight loss. She understands the role hormones play in weight loss and specializes in balancing hormones, from thyroid and adrenal to estrogen and testosterone, to set your body up for weight loss.

Patients with chronic health conditions like diabetes can find management techniques and even achieve disease regression at Weston Medical Health & Wellness. By helping you lose weight and keep it off, Dr. Bretal believes you’ll live a healthier, happier life.

While the practice is known for weight loss, they offer much more. “Our services include Mental Wellness through Epigenetic and Nutritional imbalances, Hormone therapy for Men and Women,” said Dr. Bretal, “I am dedi cated to educating and enhancing the lives of my patients.”

■ Dr. Andrea Bretal practices at Weston Medical Health & Wellness 1605 Town Center Blvd • Suite D • Weston, FL 33326. To make an appointment please call 954-389-1800 or visit www.WestonDiet.com for more info.

Michele Lapayowker,

Lady

Dr. Lapayowker is a Board Certified Gynecologist who has been caring for women in Broward and the surrounding counties since 1995. Dr. Lapayowker cares for each patient individually and has a gentle approach to women of all ages. As a female gynecologist, she takes pride in truly under standing from both personal and professional experiences a woman’s health concerns.

A passion for supporting women’s health and understanding the unique medical issues that women face is what sets Dr. Lapayowker apart. She has a tremendous rapport with teens, adults, and mature women going through their transition and menopausal years, and is able to relate to each stage of the life cycle to give every patient individualized care. Her practice incorporates women’s health maintenance, and she teaches her patients the importance of disease preven tion and personal health management.

Dr. Lapayowker is a tremendously thoughtful physician who listens to her patients in order to help them get the best medical care possible. Her ability to communicate openly and set her patients at ease makes her uniquely qualified.

■ To make an appointment with Dr.Lapayowker or learn more about Lovely Lady GYN, call 954-472-2201 or visit www.LovelyLadyGYN.com.

Meet a Wellpath Healthcare Hero from Broward County

What is your Wellpath career path?

I started in 2015 as a floor nurse with the maximum custody patients. Sounds scary, doesn’t it?! It wasn’t at all. From the first day they were kind and respectful. I built rapport with them, and it made my job easy and enjoyable from the start. In seven years, I have gone from LPN to Health Services Administrator where I get the privilege of making a difference in the lives of our patients and team. During my time with the Wellpath Broward team I have worked in many different areas like intake, infirmary, mental health, detox, and charge nurse.

What gets you up every day to do this important work?

What myth did you assume about correctional healthcare that you found not to be true?

Like many, I assumed correctional healthcare was going to be scary, but the truth was the complete opposite. I love it here and I have fun every day I come to work. I love my staff, co-workers, and patient interactions.

What is the best part about your work?

I think the best part is the ability to make a change in someone’s life who may not even know they needed it.

Patricia Keathley Wellpath Health Services Administrator Broward County Main Jail

“You never know what someone has been through and the impact you may be able to have on their life.”

How did you get into healthcare and what are you like outside of work?

I am 37 years old, and I grew up here in Florida. I knew at a young age I wanted to be a nurse because I loved caring for people. Seven years ago, I had children and went to nursing school. I became an LPN and applied at the Broward Main Jail where I fell in love with correctional nursing. Since then I have never looked back. In my spare time I love to go to the beach and play with my dog Simba.

Every day I think about the difference I make in someone’s life. Not only by giving them medical care and medication but treating them with kindness which then they reciprocate back. I love people. I love to care for people and especially those who may not be able to care for themselves or may need guidance. You never know what someone has been through and the impact you may be able to have on their life. In addition, Wellpath is a great company that believes in culture and building a family environment where you feel safe and enjoy coming to work.

Is it unsafe to work in a jail?

I’ve worked in this environment for years with all levels of inmates at a maximum custody facility. I have never felt scared or unsafe. My patients are normal people like you and me. Every day we say good morning, ask how each other is doing, and then send a wish for a nice day. These patients are appreciative of our care and very respectful toward our team.

What would you say to someone considering a job here?

I would tell them to jump in with open arms. If you love nursing, you will love correctional nursing. It’s an amazing place to grow your skills while making a difference in people’s lives. I feel correctional healthcare is the best kept secret in healthcare. It sounds intimidating at first, but once you start you will never want to go anywhere else. I come to work every day hoping to make this environment a better place and a happy work environment.

Andrew Small

“Ms. Keathley is not only a great clinical nurse, she is a great leader. Keathley leads with passion to improve company culture and make Wellpath a great place to call home.”

Wellpath Florida Regional Vice President

CANCER

Comprehensive cancer care in your community

After a century of caring for patients, including more than three decades in Florida, Cleveland Clinic knows what matters most to patients facing a cancer diagnosis. Patients want to have access to high quality, comprehensive cancer services close to home.

Cleveland Clinic Florida is part of a global, physicianled organization that provides outstanding patient care guided by a “Patients First” philosophy. The nonprofit, multispecialty, academic medical center integrates clinical and hospital care with research and education.

Commitment to industry standards

Cleveland Clinic Florida’s Maroone Cancer Center harnesses the full resources of the Cleveland Clinic enterprise, including collaboration with the Taussig Cancer Institute in Cleveland, Ohio, which is one of the top cancer centers in the country and part of the NCI-designated Case Comprehensive Cancer Center. The Maroone Cancer Center has earned recognition for providing quality cancer care, including accreditation by the American College of Surgeons’ Commission on Cancer®, and Cleveland Clinic Florida has been recognized as High Performing in Colon Cancer Surgery and Lung Cancer Surgery by U.S. News & World Report for 2022-23.

Collaboration across specialties

Cleveland Clinic Florida’s multidisciplinary team of cancer specialists works together to address malignancies in virtually every part of the body using evidenced-based modalities and the latest research. Teams of specialists conduct weekly cancer conferences to review and discuss cases and develop personalized treatment plans that may include:

• Expert surgical care with access to minimally invasive and robot-assisted approaches

• Chemotherapy or immunotherapy treatments delivered in infusion suites focused on patient safety and comfort

• Advanced radiation therapies using state-of-the-art technology, including intensity modulated radiation therapy and intraoperative radiation therapy

• Participation in clinical trials and cancer research under the direction of leading physician scientists

TALK WITH AN EXPERT.

Research-driven, personalized breast cancer care

The introduction of targeted precision therapy and immunotherapy has led to a new era of tailored breast cancer therapies that considers a patient’s genetic makeup; tumor composition at the detailed biological level; medical history; and response to therapy. Many drugs have been developed in the last decade that target specific types of breast cancer, including Hormone Receptor positive, HER2-positive or triple negative breast cancer with several subtypes within each group.

“We now know we can achieve better outcomes by treating patients at the molecular level based on the specific genetic mutations of the tumor and unique characteristics of each individual patient,” says Zeina Nahleh, MD, FACP, Regional Institute Chair for Cancer at Cleveland Clinic Florida and Center Director of the Maroone Cancer Center. “Advances in personalized therapies have led to a paradigm shift in the management of breast cancers and hold promise of more to come.”

Compassionate, holistic care Patients have access to an array of cancer support services that promote well-being during treatment and beyond. These services include:

• Patient navigator services

• Cancer support groups

• Art therapy

• Beauty/body image services

• Massage therapy

• Music therapy

• Nutrition services

• Social work services

• Wig boutique

Cleveland Clinic Florida provides patients the compassionate, comprehensive care they deserve close to home. And that makes all the difference. Visit ClevelandClinicFlorida.org/Cancer to learn more.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Nahleh or another Cleveland Clinic Florida cancer specialist, go to ClevelandClinicFlorida.org/Cancer or call 877.463.2010.

EXERTIONAL COMPARTMENT SYNDROME IN THE ATHLETE A Commonly Missed Diagnosis

By Dr. Michael M. Cohen, DPM, FACFAS

When shin splints are not s hin splints.

There many causes of leg pain in athletes. All too often, they are lumped together under the term shin splints which most sports medicine physicians do not consider a true diagnosis. Stress fractures, tendinitis, medial tibial stress syndrome are all examples of maladies referred to as shin splints. However, one commonly missed diagnosis often confused with shin splints is exertional compartment syndrome (ECS). Exertional compartment syndrome (ECS), also known as exertional induced compartment syndrome or chronic compartment syndrome is a unique condition where an athlete experi ences muscle pain in the legs with weakness of the ankle as a result of increased muscle pressure in one or all four compartments of the leg. Patients with this condition will typically note the onset of symptoms at a fixed point ranging from 5-30 minutes into an activity, at a specific level of intensity, with symptoms usually occurring in both legs. The most characteristic feature of (ECS) is that it is exercise induced and never present at rest. The vast majority of patients with ECS are runners who range from the occasional jogger to the elite Olympic level runner. It is not unusual to see unconditioned athletes develop these symptoms after beginning an exercise program. Occasionally the prob lem is recognized in high-level cyclists as well.

Why does this happen?

There are generally 4 compartments in the leg, each is surrounded by tight tissue resembling a thick saran wrap which holds the compartment in place and separates it from the adjacent compartments. Patients with ECS will complain of cramping, burning, tightness and weakness of the ankle with exercise. Some will also develop numbness in the foot and describe a foot slap due to ankle weakness during running. This may cause the runner to trip as a result of the foot not being able to clear the ground just before landing. Pain will force the athlete to stop at which time symptoms completely resolve after resting a few minutes. The symptoms are reproducible with exertion and should be recreated in the office setting with an exercise challenge such as running on a treadmill or stair climbing. Specific muscle

and sensory testing after exertion will aid in confirming the diagnosis and specifying the compartment affected. During strenuous activity blood flow increases to the leg causing the volume and weight of the muscle to increase by about 20%. As a result, the muscle fibers attempt to swell but are restricted by the tight surrounding fascia. Immediately after activity the leg may feel tense or tender with deep message or passive stretch. Runners may find that a bubble or several bubbles are visible in front of the leg which we refer to as fascial hernias. These are areas where the fascia may have become weak allowing the muscle to herniate through due to the excessive internal leg pressure. The physical exam during rest is otherwise generally unremarkable. X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging, vascular studies and other imaging exams are used to rule out other diagnosis but are not helpful, as they are always normal in ECS. To confirm the diagnosis the sports physician will need to measure the pressure in each com partment of the leg with a special instrument much like a tire gauge. In normal patients, the pressure difference between rest and activity is small, while those with ECS will have a dramatic increase in pressure readings after activity.

ECS is not an emergency

Exercised-induced compartment syndrome is not to be confused with acute compartment syndrome which is considered a surgical emer gency. Typically, acute compartment syndrome is a result of a traumatic injury causing a similar increase in compartment pressures due to hemorrhaging. In this situation, the pressure cannot be controlled easily and the delay in treatment may cause permanent muscle and nerve damage. In contrast, people with exer cise-induced compartment syndrome will find that the pressure is relieved completely with rest. ECS is generally not considered an emergency. What is the treatment?

A period of rest and avoiding high-intensity activities can be tried. Often more experienced athletes will recognize the level of intensity provoking symptoms and attempt to exercise just below that threshold. Muscle retraining by running more efficiently may also improve symptoms.

However, if the diagnosis of ECS is clear

and the symptoms persist despite exhausting conservative treatment, surgery may be required if the athlete intends to continue the sport. The surgery involves releasing or cutting the tight fascia using a technique called fasciotomy. This allows the muscle to expand during exercise. Complication rates are rare when done by an experienced surgeon and may include bleed ing, wound breakdown, and numbness. Also, symptoms can redevelop several years after a fasciotomy in a small percentage of patients as a result of the fascia reforming. The results of the procedure however are generally very gratifying and has allowed many athletes to remain active in their sport.

▸ Dr. Michael Cohen has a marathon PR of 2:37 at age 21; 2:50 at age 39 and at 50 was a top 3 age group finisher in both the ING Miami and Disney Half Marathons. In 1997 he placed third overall in the Florida Gatorade Duathlon series. Michael M Cohen, DPM, is a Board-Certified Foot and Ankle Surgeon and Diplomate of the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery. He is a Fellow of the American Board of Foot and Ankle Sur geons and Board Certified and Diplomat of the American Board of Podiatric Medicine. He prac tices with the Foot, Ankle, and Leg Specialists of South Florida specializing in lower leg injuries and reconstructive surgery of the foot and ankle. The South Florida Institute of Sports Medicine in Weston is located at 1600 Town Center Blvd, Suite C, (954) 389-5900 and in Pembroke Pines at 17842 NW 2nd St, (954) 430-9901. www. SouthFloridaSportsMedicine.org

In Honor of Halloween: CELEBRITY PROBATE NIGHTMARES

By Andrea L. Jakob, Esq.

Recently, we heard about the tragic passing of Anne Heche. I was astounded to read she did not have a will, although the mother of minor children.

Earlier this year, I spoke at the Broward County Library regarding "Probate Nightmares." While I used recent stories you may be familiar with as examples of what not to do, I think it shows us what we ALL must do! And I hope that Anne Heche’s legacy will not end up as a topic of my next speaking engagement.

Nightmare 1. Rockstar Prince’s Intestate Estate. Without a will, your wishes are determined according to state law. The court may make the decision as to who will receive your assets. If you have minor children, a guardian may not be the one you would have chosen.

Prince died intestate. His full sister, five half-siblings, and hundreds more individuals claimed to be entitled to his funds. The IRS then fought with his family for about six years to determine the value of his taxable estate. Lesson learned: avoid a nightmare by consulting a trusted attorney to plan for the future.

Nightmare 2. Aretha Franklin’s improperly completed wills.

Suppose you do not clearly and unequivocally complete your estate plan documents according to state law. In that case, your family may end up with a mess like Aretha’s Family. They assumed she had no will, but a few handwritten documents were found. Then her attorneys found a draft "Will of Aretha Franklin" that was never signed. She had four improperly completed "wills" that forced her estate and assets to remain stuck in court years following her passing. All to await a judge to rule on the validity of those documents. Lesson learned: Ensure your documents are properly signed and executed according to state law.

Nightmare 3. Jerry Garcia’s ex-wives: Selecting the right "fiduciaries" or persons to handle your matters.

Jerry Garcia's family dealt with a complex probate estate. His decisions led to a family and court battle. His third wife was named the Executor (Personal Representative) responsible for the ongoing alimony payments to his second wife. Lesson learned: choose the right people to fulfill your responsibilities and wishes.

Nightmare 4. Robin William’s “Stuff."

The family of Robin Williams was lucky his estate plan was well prepared; except for one major issue: the plan for his collectibles, photographs, and memorabilia, including one Academy Award, six Golden Globes, two Emmys, and five Grammys, was left unresolved. His family ended up in a bitter feud over these unique and treasured items.

Lesson learned: personal property, "our stuff," may have emotional or financial worth. You don't want your family fighting over your personal belongings.

Although each celebrity discussed likely had agents, managers, and attorneys heavily involved in their careers, none had an ideal estate plan.

Given the constantly changing laws and the inherent complexities in today's families, everyone—famous or not—needs to take time to protect their loved ones with a complete, updated estate plan.

▸ Andrea L. Jakob, PA is located at 12401 Orange Drive, suite 219 in Davie. They can be reached at 954-406-5239 or on the web at www.jakoblegal.com.