OurHealth Lynchburg & Southside Oct/Nov 2016 Edition by OurHealth Media LLC

FREEZING THE PAIN

PART 4: HOW TO IN HEALTHCARE

THERE'S NO PLACE LIKE HOME

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TABLE OF CONTENTS OCTOBER • NOVEMBER 2016

MEDI•CABU•LARY

Local experts define health-related terms

JUST ASK

NEW & NOTEWORTHY

Test your knowledge when it comes to the SHOULDER

Healthcare questions answered by local professionals

A listing of new physicians, providers, locations and upcoming events in the Lynchburg and Southside communities

THE ANATOMY CHALLENGE FREEZING THE PAIN Follow the story of Diane Short and her journey of identifying and treating “frozen shoulder.”

THE DRIVE TO SURVIVE When breast cancer backed these four women into a corner, they found the drive to move forward with courage, determination and the power of positive thinking.

HEALTH POINTS Interesting facts and tidbits about health www.OurHealthlbss.com

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TABLE OF CONTENTS OCTOBER • NOVEMBER 2016

FIT BITS Add some new 'TRIX' to your workout | Deidre Wilkes, OurHealth's resident fitness specialist, shares the many training benefits of total body resistance exercies.

HELLO, HEALTH Capturing the spirit of those working in healthcare and of people leading healthy lives through photos.

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THERE'S NO PLACE LIKE HOME Generation Solutions unveils a referral service of qualified home maintenance experts, available to anyone at any age.

NUTRITION Tricia Foley RD, MS, OurHealth's resident nutritionist, shares a pumpkin pancakes recipe with healthy ingredient swaps.

THE BRIDGE TO BETTER HEALTH STARTS WITH PRIMARY CARE SERIES PART 5 | MEASURE YOUR CARE This article, the fifth in a yearlong OurHealth series about primary care, focuses on how you can Measure Your Care. We’ll delve into your part of the patient-physician partnership.

HOW TO IN HEALTHCARE SERIES PART 4 | TIME TO PUT THE SKILLS TO THE TEST The final in our series, part IV of OurHealth’s four-part series explores how to obtain a job in healthcare by creating an appealing, hire-worthy portfolio.

CLOSER LOOK Images reflecting the landscape of healthcare in Lynchburg and Southside * PLUS * a chance to win a free year's subscription to OurHealth!

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october • november 2016 McClintic Media, Inc. Steve McClintic, Jr. | steve@ourhealthvirginia.com Jennifer Hungate Deidre Wilkes Laura Bower Karrie Pridemore Tori Meador Heidi McClintic Bobbi Hoffman Dalton Holody Michelle Anne Photography CJ Harris WEBSITE Heidi McClintic

PUBLISHER PRESIDENT/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF VICE PRESIDENT OF PRODUCTION PROJECT COORDINATOR ACCOUNTING MANAGER CHIEF GRAPHIC DESIGNER GRAPHIC DESIGNER DIGITAL CONTENT MANAGER | EVENT SPECIALIST COPY EDITOR DIGITAL MEDIA STRATEGY ORIGINAL PHOTOGRAPHY

CONTRIBUTING MEDICAL EXPERTS John Alfieri, MD Douglas Call, CP Clair McStacy, CNM, MSN Andy Tatom, III, PT, DPT, OCS CONTRIBUTING PROFESSIONAL Geri Aston EXPERTS & WRITERS Ron Driskill, AIA Susan Dubuque Tina Joyce Emily Muniz Rick Piester Deidre Wilkes ADVERTISING AND MARKETING Cynthia Trujillo | Senior Media Consultant P: 434.907.5255 | cindy@ourhealthvirginia.com SUBSCRIPTIONS To receive OurHealth Lynchburg and Southside via U.S. Mail, please contact Deidre Wilkes at deidre@ourhealthvirginia.com or at 540.387.6482

COMMENTS/FEEDBACK/QUESTIONS We welcome your feedback. Please send all comments and/or questions to the following: U.S. Mail: McClintic Media, Inc., ATTN: Steve McClintic, Jr., President/ Publisher/Editor: 303 S. Colorado Street • Salem, VA 24153. | Email: steve@ourhealthvirginia.com | Phone: 540.387.6482 Ext. 1 Information in all print editions of OurHealth and on all OurHealth websites (websites listed below) and social media updates and emails is for informational purposes only. The information is not intended to replace medical or health advice of an individual’s physician or healthcare provider as it relates to individual situations. DO NOT UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES ALTER ANY MEDICAL TREATMENT WITHOUT THE CONSENT OF YOUR DOCTOR. All matters concerning physical and mental health should be supervised by a health practitioner knowledgeable in treating that particular condition. The publisher does not directly or indirectly dispense medical advice and does not assume any responsibility for those who choose to treat themselves. The publisher has taken reasonable precaution in preparing this publication, however, the publisher does not assume any responsibility for errors or omissions. Copyright © 2016 by McClintic Media, Inc. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. OurHealth Lynchburg/Southside is published bi-monthly • Special editions are also published • McClintic Media, Inc. • 303 S. Colorado Street, Salem, VA 24153, P: 540.387.6482 F: 540.387.6483. MAIN: ourhealthvirginia.com | ourhealthswva.com | ourhealthlbss.com | ourhealthrichmond.com | ourhealthcville.com | Advertising rates upon request.

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LOCAL EXPERTS D E F I N E H E A LT H R E L AT E D T E R M S

“ ”

Physical therapy can help cervicogenic, tension headaches and jaw pain because many of the root causes of these conditions are muscle and joint dysfunction or poor posture and are related to specific activities.

– Andy Tatom, III, PT, DPT, OCS

What is craniofacial therapy?

What is a microprocessorcontrolled prosthesis?

The term ‘craniofacial’ typically refers to the head, face and jaw. As such, craniofacial pain can include headaches and jaw or TMJ (temporomandibular joint) pain. Headaches are the most prevalent type of pain worldwide. A large portion of the world’s population suffers from headaches and TMJ pain at some point in their lives.

Over the past 10 years, technological advancements have enabled amputees to resume their daily activities using a microprocessor or “computer-controlled” prosthesis.

There are many different kinds of headache, from migraines and cluster headaches (recurrent headaches on one side of the head, typically around the eye) to cervicogenic headaches (headaches with pain that originates in the neck). The jaw and related muscles can also undergo significant pain. Physical therapy can help cervicogenic, tension headaches and jaw pain because many of the root causes of these conditions are muscle and joint dysfunction or poor posture and are related to specific activities. An evaluation will identify joint and muscle issues in the neck, head and face. The physical therapist can then provide treatment and manual therapy to improve joint and soft tissue restriction, exercises to improve strength and motion, education to improve posture, and modalities to control or eliminate pain.

Microprocessor prosthetic knees, feet and hands mimic the body’s natural functions, enabling most patients to return to the activities that were an important part of their lives pre-amputation. These significant technological advancements improve countless amputees’ lives, and they show no signs of slowing. With an appropriately designed prosthesis prescribed by a physician and physical therapy that trains patients in how to use their devices, amputees should be able to return to the activities they enjoy.

Douglas Call, CP

President Virginia Prosthetics and Orthotics Lynchburg | 434.455.2930 www.virginiaprosthetics.com

What is the Two-Year College Transfer Grant Program? The Two-Year College Transfer Grant Program is an opportunity for students to complete an associate degree at a Virginia community college and to reduce the tuition cost at the four-year institution to which they transfer. In this program, students save during their freshman and sophomore years by starting their studies at a Virginia community college; by meeting the eligibility requirements for this grant, they are then able to extend their savings once they are at a fouryear institution. Eligible graduates with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher will receive up to $1,000 per year at participating four-year institutions for up to three years. To view the eligibility requirements, application process, and a list of participating institutions, visit www.schev.edu. Starting at a community college and transferring can be a great alternative for many young people. It gives students time to adjust to college life, explore different disciplines, and save money. The Two-Year Transfer Grant provides an additional incentive for students to begin their studies at a Virginia community college.

Emily Muniz Andy Tatom, III, PT, DPT, OCS Rehab Associates of Central Virginia Lynchburg | 434.509.1695 www.racva.com

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Transfer Counselor Central Virginia Community College Lynchburg | 434.832.7600 www.cvcc.vccs.edu

b u rg & So u

OurHea

lth

nch

s id

AWARDS 201

6 GOLD

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H E A LT H C A R E QUESTIONS ANSWERED BY LOCAL PROFESSIONALS

With more and more homeowners deciding to ‘age in place,’ the following are a few design requirements that should be considered.

“

”

– Ron Driskill, AIA

What are some architectural design adjustments seniors can make to ‘age in place’ ?

When designing for aging in place, the homeowner must be aware of the increased need for wider circulation. This is most often seen within toilet rooms, around beds, at doorways and along corridors. The availability of wider circulation will be invaluable when wheelchair assistance is necessary. Additional features include the potential need for levers rather than knobs on doors and faucets, a shower without an entry curb, hand-held shower controls, shallower thresholds and increased maneuvering clearances at doors. There is also the eventual possible need for ramps, lifts and grab bars. Door and hall widths, wheelchair turn-around radius, acceptable slopes, reach clearances, maneuvering clearances at doors, sitting heights, knee clearance, stair rail extensions and stabilizing bars are some of the many adjustments that must be considered when designing for those who may require in-home assistance.

Can genetics predispose women to low bone density and osteoporosis? Half of women and a fifth of men over the age of 50 have low bone mineral density. Low bone mineral density, osteopenia and osteoporosis are sometimes called “brittle bones” and can increase the risk of hip fractures and other catastrophic injuries as we age. Hip fractures in our seventies and eighties tend to be the leading event for placement in a nursing home. At least 15 genes have been associated with low bone mineral density. In the future, there may be targeted therapies for these genes. Family history is the number one risk factor, with people who have small frames, low weights (less than 125 pounds), and Caucasian or Asian ancestry as well as those who undergo early menopause being more likely to have the genes for osteoporosis. Modifiable risk factors for osteoporosis include smoking, alcohol and caffeine use, and a sedentary lifestyle, so if you have family history of osteoporosis, get clean and get moving!

Clair McStacy, CNM, MSN

Centra Medical Group Women’s Center Forest | 434.385.8948 www.centrahealth.com

Will my varicose veins worsen if left untreated? It is a fact that untreated varicose veins will get worse. Untreated varicose veins can also lead to more serious health issues, including blood clots, swelling of the feet and ankles, and skin ulcers. As varicose veins worsen, they also become more complex and get increasingly harder to treat. People with bulging varicose veins should be evaluated to determine their severity. If your evaluation determines that treatment is “medically necessary,” Medicare as well most insurance companies will pay for your treatment. In the past, the only treatment for varicose veins was stripping. Now, thanks to many new in-office treatments, stripping has become much less common. The new treatments include FDA-approved medicines for injection and heating catheters than can be inserted into the veins and burn them from the inside. These treatments are very safe and allow normal activities to be resumed the same day. Given that bulging varicose veins only worsen, the fear of painful treatments and extended recovery should not keep people from getting their varicose veins evaluated.

John Alfieri, MD Ron Driskill, AIA

Architect and Vice President CS Custom Structures, Inc. Lynchburg | 434.832.0040 www.customstructuresinc.com

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Virginia Vein Specialists Lynchburg | 434.237.5893 www.virginiaveinspecialists.com

NEW

NOTEWORTHY

NEW PHYSICIANS, P R O V I D E R S , L O C AT I O N S AND UPCOMING EVENTS

Virginia Neurospine Now Open in Lynchburg Virginia Neurospine announces the opening of its Lynchburg/Forest location. Serving Amherst, Lynchburg, Danville, and the greater region, Virginia Neurospine is the regions’ largest independent neurosurgical practice and the only neurosurgical group performing Minimally Invasive Spine (MIS) and Advanced Keyhole Brain Surgery (KBS). The ability to provide the most advanced care in the area is supported by Virginia Neurospine's relationship with the University of Virginia's (UVA) Medical Center, Centra Lynchburg General Hospital (LGH), Danville Regional Medical Center and clinical partnerships with primary care across the region. The staff of Virginia Neurospine consists of the most highly trained, credentialed

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and certified neurosurgeons in the area. These partnerships provide patients with care at all levels from safe, outpatient surgery centers in Lynchburg and Charlottesville to local community hospitals in Danville and Lynchburg. Our relationship with the University of Virginia allows us to provide patients with integrated multispecialty care. Conditions treated by Virginia Neurospine include:

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SPINE

BRAIN

OTHER

•

Neck pain, arm pain

•

Brain tumors

•

Herniated disks

•

Aneurysms

Complex regional pain syndromes

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Back and leg pain

•

AVMs

•

Spinal stenosis “pinched nerves”

•

Chiari malformations

Ulnar tunnel syndrome (tennis elbow)

•

Trigeminal neuralgia

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Foraminal Stenosis

•

Facial pain

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

•

Spinal Fractures

•

Headaches

•

Spinal Instability

•

Spine tumors

•

Pars defects

Virginia Neurospine is located at 1019 Vista Park Drive in Forest. For more information, call 434.385.4703, or visit www.vaneurospine.com.

Heritage Green Renovation Revealed Heritage Green Assisted Living is pleased to reveal the jewel of Lynchburg, in their newly renovated DayBreak Memory Care Community. The six month renovation was thoughtfully planned by a team of experts with attention to every detail to achieve an amazing end result. Highlights of the renovation include many interior upgrades as well as redesigned outdoor courtyards and exterior design. For more information on Heritage Green Assisted Living, visit www.heritagegreenal.com.

OurHealth | The Resource for Healthy Living in Lynchburg and Southside

Jennifer Edwards, FNP

Dilantha Ellegala, MD

W. Hugh Gill, MD

Jason Higey, MD

Virginia Neurospine Lynchburg | 434.200.9009 www.vaneurospine.com

Steve Morgan, MD

Virginia Neurospine Lynchburg | 434.200.9009 www.vaneurospine.com

Centra Medical Group Stroobants Cardiovascular Center Lynchburg | 434.200.5252 www.centrahealth.com

Kelli Rosas, FNP

Virginia Neurospine Lynchburg | 434.200.9009 www.vaneurospine.com

Gretel Spitzer, MD

Centra Medical Group â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Amherst Amherst | 434.946.9565 www.centrahealth.com

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NEW

NOTEWORTHY

NEW PHYSICIANS, P R O V I D E R S , L O C AT I O N S AND UPCOMING EVENTS

Construction Begins on New Fifth Street Community Health Center

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Through a collaborative effort between the Free Clinic of Central Virginia, the Community Access Network and Centra, the new Fifth Street Community Health Center is now underway. The community health center will help to serve those in the community with limited access to healthcare services. The center, which will be an additional Free Clinic site, will provide walk-in immediate and primary care services to high-risk underinsured or uninsured patients. It will also provide mental health services through collaborative community partnerships and access to specialists and other additional medical services. Through partnerships with nonprofits and social service agencies in the community, the clinic will also be equipped to address social issues affecting patients’ health, whether it is inadequate housing, transportation or a lack of financial resources. Having all these services under one roof is truly unique. The medical center is slated to open late 2017 and will be located on the corner of 5th and Federal Street in downtown Lynchburg. For more information, visit www.centrahealth.com.

Danville Regional Medical Center Receives 2016 American College of Cardiology Performance Award

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Danville Regional Medical Center (DRMC) has received the American College of Cardiology’s National Cardiovascular Data Registry ACTION Registry–GWTG Platinum Performance Achievement Award for 2016. DRMC is one of only 223 hospitals nationwide to receive the honor. This is the second year in a row DRMC has received this award. ACTION Registry–GWTG is a partnership between the American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association with partnering support from the American College of Emergency Physicians and the Society of Cardiovascular Patient Care. ACTION Registry- GWTG empowers healthcare provider teams to consistently treat heart attack patients according to the most current, science-based guidelines and establishes a national standard for understanding and improving the quality, safety and outcomes of care provided for patients with coronary artery disease, specifically high-risk heart attack patients. The award recognizes DRMC’s commitment and success in implementing a higher standard of care for heart attack patients and signifies that DRMC has reached an aggressive goal of treating these patients to standard levels of care as outlined by the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association clinical guidelines and recommendations. “As a hospital and healthcare system committed to heart health excellence, we want to provide the best heart care to the patients we serve” , says Alan Larson, Market President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO). “The collaborative work of our hospital and community partners to achieve this award has distinguished our hospital as a leader in emergency care and heart health. Only an elite group of hospitals around the country hold this recognition. Our patients can feel confident in our ability to provide life-saving heart care.” For more information on Danville Regional Medical Center, visit www.DanvilleRegional.com.

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Find OurHealth on social media. Timberlake Family Pharmacy opens in Lynchburg Pharmacists Vince and Jodi Ettare and Edward Breslow announce the opening of their second location, Timberlake Family Pharmacy located at 20276 Timberlake Road, Lynchburg, VA. The Ettares have owned and operated Rustburg Family Pharmacy in Rustburg, VA since January, 2009. The expansion into a second location allows the opportunity to expand their services to the greater Lynchburg and surrounding areas. Due to the overwhelming demand for their compounding services, the facility has been relocated to the new, larger Timberlake location. Rustburg Family Pharmacy will continue to provide traditional pharmacy services to the Rustburg area. Compounding medications is an integral part of the practice of pharmacy and the demand for these customized medications increases every year. Compounded medications are prescriptions that are written by physicians, veterinarians, and other legally authorized prescribers and prepared for an individual patient by a specially trained pharmacist. For more information, visit www.timberlakepharmacy.net or call 434.237.MEDS(6337).

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T I P S , T I D B I T S A ND MO R E TO I NF O R M A ND ENT ERTA I N YO U

“If you think taking care of yourself is selfish, change your mind. If you don’t you’re simply ducking your responsibilities.” - Ann Richards, women and minorities advocate

DID YOU KNOW? Women are nearly twice as likely as men to experience depression, and although it can occur at any age, it is most common in women between the ages of 40 and 59. Your emotional health is as important as your physical health. Talk to your healthcare team about being screened for depression.

BONES AND BARBELLS!

Studies show that strength training – not just walking or doing aerobics, but LIFTING weights – can help protect bones and prevent osteoporosis-related fractures! Source: National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases

Source: Mayo Clinic

Get a call back after your last mammogram? For every 1,000 women who have a screening mammogram, over 20 percent get a call back from the doctor’s office!

100

return for additional mammogram or ultrasound * will due to something seen in the initial mammogram

61 20* 19

will have the additional imaging and find nothing is wrong will find what was seen in the imaging is likely not cancer and return in six months to keep watch on the finding

When breast cancer is found this way, the cure rate is very high!

will have a minimally invasive needle biopsy

5 will be diagnosed with breast cancer * Figures may be lower for women who have had prior mammograms and higher for women who are having their first mammogram. Source: American College of Radiology

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FASCINATING FACT

The tooth is the only part of the body that can’t repair itself. Don’t forget to schedule regular dental exams!

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November is both

National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month and National Family Caregivers Month If you are a caregiver of any kind, visit www.caregiveraction.org for tools and resources to help manage the care of your loved one.

More Than

Nearly

15 million 5 million family members, friends and neighbors care for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease!

Americans are living with Alzheimer’s, and almost

60 Percent of Alzheimer’s and dementia caregivers are women.

Two-Thirds

of them are women.

Want to be part of the cure for Alzheimer’s ? Sign up for TrialMatch, a free clinical matching service that connects individuals with Alzheimer’s, caregivers and healthy volunteers to current studies. For more information visit www.alz.org/research.

I AM Woman 5K!

Make it a girl’s day out! This women’s only 5K is an out and back course, with start and finish at the Centra Alan B. Pearson Regional Cancer Center. Take advantage of the crisp autumn air, grab your running shoes and some girlfriends, and enjoy the day!

Trot for HumanKind this

THANKSGIVING

Centra Alan B. Pearson Regional Cancer Center

Every year thousands come together in downtown Lynchburg to celebrate Thanksgiving and give back to a local nonprofit, HumanKind. HumanKind's annual Turkey Trot, sponsored by Wells Fargo, helps children, adults and families succeed. Proceeds from this event benefit people served by HumanKind, formerly Presbyterian Homes & Family Services and the Family Alliance.

1701 Thomson Drive, Lynchburg

Thursday, November 24, 2016 | 9:00 a.m.

October 29, 2016 | 8:00 a.m.

For more information, visit www.runsignup.com/Race/VA /Lynchburg/IAMWoman5K.

E.C. Glass High School | 2111 Memorial Avenue, Lynchburg Register today at www.humankind.org. www.OurHealthlbss.com

the

Anatomy

CHALLENGE How much do you know about the

Shoulder? First, complete the

word search below. Next, match up the correct word with the part of the body in the illustration.

[ the Shoulder ]

WORD SEARCH acromion

glenoid socket

biceps muscle

humerus

bursa

rotator cuff

clavicle

scapula

deltoid muscle

For answers, visit OurHealth Lynchburg & Southsideâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Facebook page at

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FREEZING THE

PAIN

Identifying and Treating “Frozen Shoulder” words | TINA JOYCE

Improving patients’ quality of life, increasing their range of motion, and striving to help their days be pain-free following a surgical procedure are goals of all healthcare professionals. Receiving proactive care in the days and weeks following a lumpectomy or mastectomy may greatly reduce both acute and chronic pain as well as minimize a patient’s long-term limitations. Diane Short, a patient who underwent a successful lumpectomy 18 months ago, found herself experiencing symptoms of adhesive capsulitis, or “frozen shoulder.” However, she had no previous knowledge that this condition existed and was treatable. This complication is not uncommon, but it can be misdiagnosed or ignored if a patient is not persistent with his or her postsurgery care provider. Often, a patient may feel that the pain or discomfort is normal following a lumpectomy and may wait to disclose the severity or details of the symptoms, resulting in unneeded suffering for months or years.

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Diane explains, “No one ever called my symptoms SIMPLE RANGE OF MOTION EXERCISES A physical therapist can teach patients range-ofmotion exercises to assist them in recovering their mobility. However, the degree to which patients are willing and able to commit to consistently performing the exercises, both in the office and at home, will affect their results.

‘frozen shoulder,’ but my pectoral muscle was very sore, and I was unable to raise or straighten my right arm above my head. When I tried to raise it, I would have a sharp pain in my shoulder. I had a hard time reaching up in the cabinets or hanging or getting down items in a closet. I would shift my body and use my other arm or get a stepstool to get to what I needed. It seemed like I had no strength to lift or carry items. I finally asked my surgeon about physical therapy options a few months later. He set me up with a physical therapist.”

CROSS-BODY REACH

It is important for patients to continually ask their doctors clarifying questions and communicate with them both before and after a procedure. Patients may have to be their own advocates and ask for options to alleviate their pain or improve their mobility. Adhesive capsulitis is a pattern of restriction of the shoulder joint due to pain caused from an injury or surgery. A patient who experiences this, like Diane, will refrain from moving the arm and shoulder in order to avoid additional pain and discomfort. The joint then becomes “frozen” or stiff from lack of use and inflammation.

BEHIND BACK REACH

FORWARD ARM EXTENSION

It is fairly common for patients to experience pain, joint restriction, and functional limitations after surgeries related to breast cancer, although it is also not uncommon after a stroke, rotator cuff injury, or other arm injuries. Muscle weakness, swelling, numbness, and tingling may also persist. Typically, these symptoms are more prevalent after a mastectomy than a lumpectomy because more tissue is removed. Also, the complications may be more intense, depending on whether or not any lymph nodes are removed. Prompt, proactive care can greatly reduce the symptoms of “frozen shoulder.” Typically, a patient can begin physical therapy as early as two days post-surgery. According to Harrison Hunt, PT, DPT of Rehabilitation Associates of Central Virginia, “It is critically important to have a physical therapist that evaluates the whole patient versus just their diagnosis, listens closely to their patients, understands their history and has the clinical experience to manage their conditions completely.” Therapists agree that early physical therapy significantly improves a patient’s joint mobility and overall recovery time

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and ultimately decreases the cost of healthcare associated with post-operative limitations. As the American Cancer Society explains, “It’s important to complete exercises [after breast cancer surgery] to get the arm and shoulder moving again. Exercises help to decrease side effects of surgery and help patients get back to usual activities.” A thorough evaluation needs to be completed at a physical therapist’s office in order to discuss the patient’s medical history and assess their posture, range of motion, strength, balance, and functional level; this will allow the physical therapist to determine the best plan of care. During the following appointments, the focus shifts to teaching exercises and hands-on treatments targeting the joint as well as strength deficits that were found during the initial evaluation.

Diane reveals that she is doing much better today, 18 months after she had the procedure and 10 months after she began physical therapy, but she must continually perform the exercises she learned. “If I do too much,” she explains, “I will feel [pain] in the shoulder, especially if I haven't kept up with what I should be doing. The pectoral muscle is still sore, and it might be a while before that pain is no longer there.” “It is important for patients to talk their doctor or

When a patient suffers from “frozen shoulder,” the shoulder capsule thickens and becomes tight. Stiff bands of tissue called adhesions develop. In many cases, there is less synovial fluid in the joint. The primary symptom of this condition is being unable to move your shoulder, either on your own or with the help of someone else. It develops in three stages:

FREEZING

STAGE 1

A physical therapist can teach patients range-of-motion exercises to assist them in recovering their mobility. However, the degree to which patients are willing and able to commit to consistently performing the exercises, both in the office and at home, will affect their results.

THE STAGES OF FROZEN SHOULDER

physical therapist about concerns early. Waiting too long can cause the problems to become chronic, therapy,” explains Harrison F. Hunt, PT, DPT of Rehabilitation Associates of Central Virginia.

The condition’s painful symptoms may actually improve during this stage, but the stiffness remains. During the four to six months of the “frozen” stage, performing normal daily activities may be very difficult.

THAWING

STAGE 3

which delays the body’s response to physical

In the “freezing” stage, you slowly experience more and more pain. As the pain worsens, your shoulder loses range of motion. The freezing stage typically lasts from six weeks to nine months.

FROZEN

STAGE 2

Therapists also integrate functional training to develop the use of the painful area in order to improve the patient’s daily living or working activities. Additionally, different types of manual therapy may be used to improve soft tissue, scar or joint restriction, and some therapists may use modalities such as electrical stimulation to increase circulation and decrease pain.

Shoulder motion slowly improves during the “thawing” stage. A complete return to normal or close to normal strength and motion typically takes anywhere from six months to two years.

“Continue to inform your doctors how you are feeling or ask if there is a treatment that would help with any pain,” Diane www.OurHealthlbss.com

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advocates. “It's important that you continue to ask questions until you are satisfied.” Patients can learn about physical therapy treatments by calling a local physical therapy office, talking to their physicians, or getting in touch with the American Physical Therapy Association. Another great source of information is other women who have undergone breast cancer surgeries or breast cancer support groups in your area. Physical therapy offers patients who are recovering from breast cancer surgeries an option to proactively enhance their speed and quality of recovery. Patients and providers who are looking to eliminate or minimize post-surgery “frozen shoulder” symptoms may begin treatment shortly after surgery, once a proper evaluation can be completed. Expert Contributer Harrison Hunt, PT, DPT with Rehabilitation Associates in Central Virginia

Sources American Cancer Society - www.cancer.org Frozen Shoulder. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons - www.orthoinfo. aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=a00071 Rehab Associates of Central Virginia - www.racva.com The Mayo Clinic - www.mayoclinic.org

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THE NINTH ANNUAL

BEST

BEDSIDE MANNER

AWA R D S IN

LYN CHB URG & SOUT HS ID E

LOOK FOR THE 2016 AWARD WINNERS IN THE NEXT ISSUE! SCAN HERE TO VISIT WWW.OURHEALTHLBSS.COM www.OurHealthlbss.com

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words | SUSAN E. DUBUQUE original photography | CJ HARRIS

The stories of four women striving to cope with breast cancer with a drive to move forward. Whether you are a man or a woman, an adult or a child, old or young, you have been touched by breast cancer. It may be your mother, aunt, sister or friend who has suffered, or perhaps you have been personally affected. Among the more than 3 million women in the U.S. who have breast cancer, many serve as inspirations to us all. There are women who demonstrate grace and dignity in the face of a life-threatening illness, there are those who transform a devastating medical condition into a positive, life-altering opportunity, and there are even those who selflessly extend a hand to others rather than focusing on their personal circumstances. This article is a tribute to four of these amazing women. It is our hope that their stories will offer insight and inspiration to even more women who are facing the challenges of breast cancer now or must face them in the future.

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JULIANNE’S STORY “I am beautiful. I am strong. My cells are dividing as they should be. Recurrence is not my journey.” This mantra offers comfort and solace to Julianne Murphy in her life as a cancer survivor. Julianne had always had fibrous breasts, so when she discovered a lump in May 2014, she wasn’t particularly concerned. A few weeks later, however, she noticed that her skin dimpled where she felt the lump, so she decided to have it checked out. “My husband nudged me to have it looked at, but I really thought that it was nothing but a cyst,” recalls Julianne. “The nurse practitioner suspected that, too. After all, I was only 37 years old — but she suggested that I have it evaluated further.” Accompanied by her husband and her mother-in-law, Julianne met with the doctor to learn the results of her biopsy. On June 24, Judith Perrotto, MD, a breast imaging specialist with Centra Health, delivered the devastating news that Julianne had stage II breast cancer. “My life was perfect right then,” says Julianne. “I was starting to take violin lessons, and we were planning a vacation with friends. I asked the doctor if I could put this off for a little while.” However, Julianne learned that her tumor was the size of a golf ball and that she had an aggressive form of cancer, so treatment had to be initiated quickly.

Julianne Murphy Julianne and her husband, Dan at a recent Susan G. Komen event in Lynchburg.

“The thought of losing my hair was a big deal,” says Julianne, “so I decided to take charge. Cancer was not going to take my hair. I had it cut really short into a pixie cut. I loved it. After my treatment got underway, my scalp became so sensitive that even my hair hurt. It was time. My sister-in-law drove me to the Alan B. Pearson Regional Cancer Center, where I received my treatment, and they shaved my head. We actually made it a fun experience. It was incredibly empowering.” Julianne’s treatment included 16 intensive chemotherapy sessions and a year of maintenance chemotherapy. In December 2014, she had a double mastectomy. This was followed by several more operations to reconstruct her breasts. On June 24, her port was removed. “It was two years to the day,” says Julianne. “Going through cancer treatment is difficult, but I felt like I had to be strong for my husband, Dan, so I didn’t

always let on how I was feeling,” says Julianne. “He was really scared that he would lose me, and he had a lot to manage, working long hours and handling the logistics of my care. It was a lot to deal with, but he would still take time to read me stories at night when I couldn’t sleep.” “There were so many other people who were there to support us both,” Julianne adds. “My mother-in-law repeatedly traveled four and a half hours from Maryland to care for me when my husband was working. Friends and neighbors dropped off meals. They drove me to treatment and held fundraisers to help us pay medical bills. My good friend Ruth, who is also a breast cancer survivor, told me what to expect and gave me positive affirmations that I repeat every day. One of my girlfriends showed up in her pajamas, and we watched movies. And another friend gave me a ‘dammit doll’ that I could use to pound away all my frustration. I truly never felt so loved.” Julianne is now paying all the caring that she received forward. She volunteers at the cancer center, helping the nurses with supplies and delivering warm blankets and drinks to patients who are receiving chemotherapy. Recently, she completed

FOUNDATIONS AND PROGRAMS LYNCHBURG Awareness Garden Foundation 1700 Langhorne Road | Lynchburg | 434.384.6740 www.awarenessgarden.org Breast Cancer Support on Eagles Wings Alan B. Pearson Regional Cancer Center 1701 Thomson Drive | Lynchburg | 434.200.5127 www.centrahealth.com EVERY WOMAN’S LIFE A VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH PROGRAM Central Virginia Health District 116 Kabler Lane | Rustburg | 434.592.9550 ext. 121 MAAM (Mammography Annually A Must) a Committee of the Centra Health Foundation 1920 Atherholt Road Lynchburg | 434.200.4790 www.foundation.centrahealth.com/maam Susan G. Komen Virginia Blue Ridge Lynchburg Area | 877.465.6636 www.komenvablueridge.org

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training at Susan G. Komen so that she could serve as a volunteer educator on the Belk mobile mammography unit. “I experienced a bit of survivor’s guilt,” admits Julianne. “I used to wonder why I made it when others suffered so much more and lost their battles, but now I know the answer. I have the opportunity to give back.” “Emotional well-being is an important component of healing, and attitude is a choice,” says Julianne. It’s obvious that she opts to have a very positive one.

CAROL’S STORY When the mobile mammography unit came to Carol Johnson’s place of employment in late October 2012, she decided to skip having a test that year. After all, it was such a pain. On the last day, however, a little voice told her that it might be a good idea to go ahead and get a mammogram. That little voice just might have saved Carol’s life. “It all happened quickly. In November, I was called back for a repeat mammogram and then a biopsy. The week before Christmas, I got the phone call: I had cancer. And from there my journey back to health and healing began,” says Carol. Her treatment, which included surgery, chemotherapy and radiation, was received through CMG Surgical Specialists and the Alan B. Pearson Regional Cancer Center.

Carol Johnson

It was Carol’s faith in God that helped her get through her cancer experience. “Going through treatment was challenging, but I reminded myself that it was necessary for me to get well,” says Carol. “I know that with God, all things are possible, so I remained strong and lived in the moment of each day. I focused on positive thoughts and my future, visualizing a healed body.” “My family is small but very strong when faced with adversity. I relied on their strength to help get me through,” says Carol. “My daughter, Kheayla, was my rock. She became my advocate, (Continued on page 38...)

FOUNDATIONS AND PROGRAMS CONTINUED... DANVILLE CITY, PITTSYLVANIA AND HENRY COUNTIES Virginia Breast Cancer Foundation Cancer Support Group United Way of Danville Pittsylvania County 1225 West Main Street Danville | 434.792.3700 www.vbcf.org EVERY WOMAN’S LIFE A VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH PROGRAM Pittsylvania-Danville Health District 200 HG McGhee Drive Chatham | 434.432.7232 ext. 236 West Piedmont Health District 295 Commonwealth Blvd. Martinsville | 276.638.2311 ext. 136

MEDICAL FACILITIES AND IMAGING CENTERS BEDFORD Blue Ridge Cancer Care – Bedford 1710 Whitfield Drive Bedford | 540.586.5770 www.blueridgecancercare.com/ locations/detail/bedford/ Centra Bedford Memorial Hospital 1613 Oakwood Street | Bedford | 540.587.7806 www.centrahealth.com/facilities/ centra-bedford-memorial-hospital DANVILLE Center for Radiation Oncology 188 S Main Street Danville | 434.799.4592 Danville Diagnostic Imaging Center 125 Executive Drive, Suite D Danville | 434.793.1043 www.danvilleregional.com Danville Regional Medical Center 142 South Main Street Danville | 434.799.2100 www.danvilleregional.com OBGYN Associates of Danville 101 Holbrook Street Danville | 434.792.7765 www.obgyndanville.com

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my listening ears, my nurturer and my voice of reason, always offering words of encouragement. My sister, Ann Marie, made me the best smoothies when my taste buds went on strike. There is nothing like the love of family.” Carol also discovered an inner reserve of personal strength that she didn’t know she had. “One of the hardest things for me was losing my long hair,” recalls Carol. “I knew it was just hair and that it would grow back, but I just didn’t want to wake up with a pile of hair on my pillow, so I had my hairdresser buzz it off. I bought a wig, but I wore it exactly twice.” Following her mother Barbara’s sound advice to hold her head high, Carol returned to work the next day with her head uncovered. “I just rocked my beautiful bald head.” Aside from her family, many other people in Carol’s life gave her love and support during her ordeal. “The minister of music at my church prepared a playlist of inspirational songs for me to listen to during chemo,” says Carol, “and my friend who owns a towing service was part of my support team. He would drive me to treatment. The staff at the cancer center got a real kick out of seeing me slide down from this huge tow truck.”

Beverly Rakes

Despite her cancer, Carol feels that her future is bright. “My bucket list grows every day, she says. “I am grateful for everything God has given me. I have a wonderful family and many friends. I am thankful for my renewed health, something that I don’t take for granted. I’ve been eating better and exercising more.” This November, Carol’s ‘little voice’ has suggested a wonderful way for her to celebrate her survivorship: by completing the Turkey Trot 5K with her family.

BEVERLY’S STORY Cancer is no stranger to Beverly Rakes. Her husband died of cancer six years ago, and her aunt suffered from five types of cancer. Now, however, she marvels at how this disease can be life-changing in positive ways. In September 2015, Beverly felt a lump in her breast, but she wasn’t really worried. Her mammogram just four 38

months earlier had been clear, so she assumed that it was just a cyst. No big deal, right? But Beverly’s primary care provider, Julia Hodnett, FNP-C, didn’t agree with Bassett Family Practice, and she immediately sent her for tests. “Then came ‘Bad Boobie Day,’” says Beverly. “That’s the day when diagnostic mammograms are done. I watched as everyone else got dressed and walked out the door, and then I was called into the office to get the bad news. In my case, I learned I had a tumor the size of a golf ball — and it was cancer.” Beverly received her care from Nathan Lander, MD at Martinsville Hospital’s Ravenel Oncology Center. She opted for a double mastectomy. “I feel very fortunate to have needed only five chemotherapy treatments and no radiation,” says Beverly. Even her doctor was amazed at how quickly Beverly’s cancer responded to treatment. After only two chemotherapy sessions, her tumor was virtually gone.

MEDICAL FACILITIES AND IMAGING CENTERS CONTINUED... LYNCHBURG Centra Alan B. Pearson Regional Cancer Center and Centra Mobile Mammography Van 1701 Thomson Drive Lynchburg | 434.200.4048 www.centrahealth.com/facilities/alan-b-pearsonregional-cancer-center/services/mammography Centra Mammography Center Tate Springs 1900 Tate Springs Road, Suite 1 Lynchburg | 434.200.7764 www.centrahealth.com/facilities/alan-b-pearsonregional-cancer-center/services/mammography Centra Mammography Center Timberlake 20293 Timberlake Road Lynchburg | 434.200.7890 www.centrahealth.com/facilities/alan-b-pearsonregional-cancer-center/services/mammography

“Having breast cancer has had a tremendous impact on me and on my life. I had built up walls around me, and I prayed that

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my heart would be opened,” says Beverly. “God listened and answered my prayers in unexpected ways.” Having cancer meant that Beverly had to accept help from others. “The outpouring of love and support that I received from my friends, colleagues and church community was overwhelming. My chemo group became my family. Believe it or not, I was a little sad when I stopped going,” says Beverly. “My daughter lives in Pennsylvania. When she calls, she notices how happy and upbeat I sound.” Beverly works for an organization that promotes health and wellness in her community, and now she is reveling in her own renewed health. “When I was sick, I never prayed for healing,” says Beverly. “Rather, I asked to be shown what lessons I was to learn from this experience.” In answer to these prayers, Beverly says that she learned a great deal. “Now I live my life to the fullest, enjoying every moment of every day. The world is fresh and new, and I am filled with gratitude.” “God’s hand in my life is evident,” Beverly reflects. “He had a plan for me that included cancer, which turned out to be the hardest, most beautiful thing that ever happened to me.”

TERESA’S STORY

Teresa Helmer

When Teresa Helmer detected a problem with her breast, she turned to the Free Clinic of Danville for medical care and emotional support. Now she is back there — only this time, she is caring for others. Teresa knows the importance of getting regular mammograms, and her routine screening in August 2013 did not show any signs of cancer. She was quite surprised just four months later, therefore, to experience swelling in her breast and an itching sensation. She immediately checked with the Free Clinic of Danville, where the nurse practitioner, Phyllis Scarce, referred Teresa to Danville Regional Medical Center for a mammogram and ultrasound. “I looked at the screen as the ultrasound tech was scanning me,” says Teresa, “and I knew something was (Continued on page 42...)

MEDICAL FACILITIES AND IMAGING CENTERS CONTINUED... LYNCHBURG CONTINUED... Centra Virginia Baptist Hospital Mammography Services 3300 Rivermont Avenue Lynchburg | 434.200.4048 vbh.centrahealth.com/services/ mammography

Check out OurHealth’s Facebook page throughout the month of October for weekly Pink Power giveaways! @OurHealthMagazine

Centra Virginia Baptist Hospital Mammography Services 3300 Rivermont Avenue Lynchburg | 434.200.4048 vbh.centrahealth.com/services/ mammography Women’s Health Services of Central Virginia 114 Nationwide Drive Lynchburg | 434.239.7890 www.whscv.com SOUTHSIDE Centra Southside Community Hospital Mammography Services 800 Oak St, Farmville | 434.392.8811 www.centrahealth.com/facilities/ centra-southside-community-hospital

OTHER RESOURCES Oftentimes, family and friends of those going through breast cancer treatments are overwhelmed and can begin to feel helpless. Here are some ways you can help and maybe put a smile on the face of someone who really needs it! CaringBridge.com – CaringBridge helps family and friends create a free personal website to quickly share updates about loved ones and their health journey Sendameal.com – SendaMeal is an online service that allows family and friends to purchase gourmet prepared meals and gifts to be delivered to loved ones who may not have time to cook during times of treatment and hospital stays MealTrain.com – MealTrain is a free service that allows family and friends to organize home-cooked meals during specified time periods. People are invited to sign up for specific meals and dates that they would like to prepare and take to the home.

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wrong. I could actually see a black mass on my breast. Phyllis Scarce truly was my guardian angel. She received the results of my tests and called UVA Medical Center repeatedly, urging them see me quickly.” On January 21, 2014, Teresa had five biopsies and additional mammograms and ultrasounds at UVA. When all of the testing was complete, she learned that she had stage III triple negative breast cancer. “I had an aggressive form of cancer,” adds Teresa, “with 26 lymph nodes involved, so my treatment had to be just as aggressive. I had eight rounds of chemotherapy and a total mastectomy. After recovering from surgery, I completed five weeks of radiation treatments. I drove two hours from Danville to UVA for my care. I truly believe I would not be alive today if it weren’t for the doctors and nurses there.”

Teresa with Phyllis Scarce, NP with Free Clinic of Danville.

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Teresa credits her faith in God and her family and friends with helping her throughout her cancer ordeal. “My mother, my two sons, Micah (age 30) and Ryan (age 27), and my good friend

Shana Turner were all there for me when I had my surgeries. And so many people kept me in their prayers,” says Teresa. “I know that made a difference.” Breast cancer has a profound physical, emotional and spiritual impact on every life it touches, but it also affected Teresa professionally. Due to her extensive treatment as well as complications from her surgery and several infections, Teresa was unable to work for 10 months. “I was so fortunate, though,” she says. Her employer assured her that her job would waiting for her when she was completely healed. After completing her treatment, therefore, Teresa was happy to return to her position with Support Services of Virginia, where she works with developmentally delayed adults. “While I was receiving chemo, I enjoyed walking around and talking to the other patients, offering words of encouragement and support,” says Teresa. “Now that I am better, I would like to continue helping others. That’s one reason why I went back to

“In our work at Komen Virginia Blue Ridge, we have the honor of meeting and working with many women as they journey through breast cancer. Just as each person’s breast cancer is different, so is the way they battle the disease. The one constant in each fighter and survivor is the power of positivity. I am amazed at how these women never say “poor me” or “why me,” they come to us to find out how to help other survivors, how they can give back and how we can find the cure.” CATHERINE TURNER WARREN Executive Director

(Continued on page 44...)

Susan G. Komen Virginia Blue Ridge

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(...continued from page 43)

school to become a phlebotomist and EKG technician.â&#x20AC;? Teresa is now doing her externship, hours of practical experience required to become licensed, at the Free Clinic of Danville. For Teresa, the circle of caring is now complete.

Expert Contributer Catherine Turner Warren, Executive Director with Susan G. Komen Virginia Blue Ridge.

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S T I ITB

words | DEIDRE

ADD S

WILKE

ND TH A HEAL N SS O FITNE O THE G

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Deidre Wilkes, AFAA, ACSM Certified Personal Trainer Deidre is the resident fitness specialist for OurHealth Lynchburg and Southside.

EW 'TR

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TRX Suspension Training Suspension training is nothing new, and it is a highly effective form of resistance exercise. If this piques your interest, read on to learn about this unique training format. TRX (Total–Body Resistance Exercise) was first created by Navy SEAL, Randy Hetrick in the mid 1990’s, who was looking for a way to exercise and keep fit while out on the field. The concept caught the attention of the fitness industry, and it wasn’t long before those black and yellow straps started showing up in gyms across the country and the TRX Suspension System was born.

TRX Suspension Training uses body weight as resistance to develop strength, balance, flexibility and core stability simultaneously. It requires the use of the TRX Suspension Trainer, a performance training tool that leverages gravity and the user’s body weight to complete hundreds of exercises. The TRX System uses two suspension straps that hang from an anchor. The straps are adjustable allowing for many variations as well as the ability to make exercises more challenging or easier, depending on the length and angle of the straps. This makes TRX Suspension Training ideal for all fitness levels.

FIND A CLASS:

WORKOUT STATS:

Check out these local facilities that offer core classes and training:

HIGH INTENSITY

*fees may be required

Iron and Grace

Lynchburg | 434.944.8633 www.ironandgraceva.com

Peakland Pilates

Lynchburg | 434.384.5354 www.pilatesrichmond.com

Danville Family YMCA Danville | 434.792.0621 www.ymcadanville.org

STRENGTH BALANCE FLEXIBILITY

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the

2016

OurHealth Lynchburg & Southside

HOW TO IN HEALTHCARE SERIES:

RT PA

an issue-by-issue overview

TIME TO

PUT THE SKILLS TO

THE TEST

words | TINA JOYCE

OurHealth Lynchburg and Southside magazine’s series “How-to in Healthcare” is a step-by-step guide to pursuing a career in healthcare. In Part I, OurHealth offered insights into the fascinating world of healthcare education. Anyone with a passion for serving others, a love of science or a fascination with the way the body works is a prime candidate for a career in healthcare. These traits often develop in childhood, which is why we began our expert advice with tips for the families of students interested in healthcare opportunities in college. In Part II, college and university professionals gave advice on certificate and degree programs for students transitioning into healthcare professions after completing two- or four-year degrees. In Part III, we began outlining the steps for entering graduate and medical school programs and exploring the best options for individual students. Now, in our fourth and final article, we seek to open the doors to employment. Even when students are diligently focused on completing their educational requirements, they can easily lose sight of the details of creating an appealing, hire-worthy portfolio.

BE PROACTIVE

PART FOUR

Insight on how to find the right job in your field of specialty.

October | November

Education plus experience should equal employment. Why, then, are so many graduates moving back in with their parents to pay off their college debt? www.OurHealthlbss.com

QUESTIONS STUDENTS SHOULD ASK HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS: What was your path through education?

•

What would you do differently?

•

What was the best advice you received in school?

•

What was your greatest professional struggle?

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What was your greatest professional reward?

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What was your first job in the field?

•

What’s the most important thing I can do to prepare for my first interview?

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What stands out the most to you in a résumé or CV?

•

What healthcare associations do you belong to, and which do you benefit from the most?

•

What have you learned the most about from your patients?

Of course, not everyone seeking a career in healthcare has to complete four years of undergraduate work and medical school. But training for any healthcare profession takes time and financial commitment. These are valuable commodities and should be used wisely. Students should seek wisdom, education and experience. One of the best ways to gain wisdom is to ask the wise. By gathering information from people working in or retired from the healthcare professions, you create opportunities to learn from others—both from their successes and from their mistakes. As early as high school, students can start preparing their professional portfolios to include pertinent work experience and positive references. Building relationships is crucial. You might admire a particular educator or medical professional you meet through study, practicums or residencies. If you want their help, simply ask.

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•

According to the Association of American Medical Colleges,1 78 percent of medical school graduates have $180,000 in debt upon graduation. This certainly isn’t the figure their parents will boast about in the next Christmas letter. But if medical students and graduate students seek careers proactively, beginning early in the educational process, they can lighten these financial burdens and broaden their future opportunities.

6 GOLD

By the time a student is in the final stages of education, a career path will hopefully have become clear, and the student can focus on landing the job or career of their choice. It is important to be flexible, persistent, and patient. Whether you can choose a particular location for work depends on several factors. Can you relocate, and are you willing to? What connections do you have at a particular facility? (Do you know someone who works there now or has in the past?) Does your educational institution offer career placement services? What credentials (academic or experiential) does the facility require for employment? Students completing residency programs are often approached by recruiters. Drug companies and staffing companies that focus on healthcare recruitment might contact residents or graduating students about opportunities. It is vitally important to examine every employment offer with discernment. Proceed cautiously and do your research. It is especially advantageous to get to know someone at the facility youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like to work in. Volunteering and working part time are great ways to gain insight into an organization before applying for permanent employment. If you earn the respect of employees, board members, or supervisors, your chances of being asked to submit a resume and of gaining an interview increase drastically.

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BUILDING YOUR

RÉSUMÉ OR CV

“Have an open mind and a willingness to

accept change, as healthcare is in a constant state of growth and advancement. And

remember, the patient always comes first!” TRACY HALL Chief Operations Officer Central Virginia Family Physicians Medical Group

Students should consider several factors when building a résumé or a curriculum vitae. First, the difference between them is important. A résumé simply and concisely presents your skills and your qualifications for a particular position or career. It should be one or two pages long. A CV includes a more complete history of your academic credentials. CVs are used by students seeking fellowships, grants, postdoctoral positions and teaching and research positions at postsecondary colleges and universities. The length can vary a lot.2 A résumé or CV cannot be built overnight. Compiling accolades and experience takes time, and if you wait until graduation to start, then by industry standards you are far too late. Many key components of a résumé can be acquired only through volunteer work, hours of commitment to a job or residency program or rigorous academic training. Regardless of age or year of school, students should always be thinking about building a résumé. It takes far more work than checking a box to indicate “done” on an application. Volunteer (Continued on page 55...)

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A TYPICAL RÉSUMÉ

INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION: •

•

A TYPICAL CV INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION: •

NAME AND CONTACT INFORMATION: Contact information at your current institution or place of employment might work best.

•

AREAS OF INTEREST: List your varied academic interests.

•

EDUCATION: Specify your degrees, earned or in progress, institutions and years of graduation. You might include the title of your dissertation or thesis here.

•

EDUCATION: List your degrees and certifications and the educational institutions and programs you attended.

GRANTS, HONORS, AND AWARDS: List any grants you have received, honors bestowed on you for your work and awards for your teaching or service.

•

WORK EXPERIENCE: List the companies or organizations you have worked for, the location of each, the dates you worked for them and your job titles and duties.

PUBLICATIONS AND PRESENTATIONS: Give a list of your published articles and books and presentations you have given at conferences. If there are a lot, you might make one section for publications and another for presentations.

•

EMPLOYMENT AND EXPERIENCE: This section can include separate lists for teaching experience, laboratory work, field work, volunteering, leadership and other relevant experiences.

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SCHOLARLY OR PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS: Here you list the professional organizations you belong to. If you have held an office or position in one of them, you can say so here or in the Experience section.

•

REFERENCES: This is a list of people willing to write letters of recommendation for you, including their contact information.3

COVER LETTER: This provides a permanent written record of the submission of the resume. It says what is being sent, to whom and by whom. NAME AND CONTACT INFORMATION: Your residential address might be the most appropriate.

REFERENCES (POSSIBLY) : This is a list of people willing to write letters of recommendation for you, including their contact information

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FIVE TIPS TO BUILD

AND EXPAND YOUR PROFESSIONAL NETWORK To assist in exploring employment opportunities, the following five tips may build and expand a professional network according to the Harris Casel Institute.5

STEP #1: MAINTAIN AN ACTIVE LINKEDIN PROFILE

This vast professional platform is a great way to network with others if you stay active. Create a profile and market your experience for free. On LinkedIn, you can stay up-to-date on healthcare news and advances. Actively optimize your profile with keywords that relate to your specific healthcare profession.

Here are some ways you should use LinkedIn: •

Start conversations: Comment, share, and start

•

Endorse colleagues: On LinkedIn, you can endorse

•

conversations with other healthcare professionals. You can get your name out there by asking crucial questions or asking others to keep you in mind when they give updates. Commenting on other blog posts regularly could help you become a part of a wider conversation. Remember to give positive feedback on other professionals’ blog posts to build your online presence. others as a friendly gesture. If you endorse others, there’s more of a chance they will endorse you back. Endorsements look good to potential employers.

Include a picture: A profile picture can increase your chances of endorsements and consideration from employers. It also helps personalize your profile. A picture helps put a name to a face and will help others notice you when you’re at events.

STEP #2: GET INVOLVED IN

HEALTHCARE ORGANIZATIONS Getting involved is a crucial part of networking. You may want to search for associations, societies, and groups that revolve around a particular healthcare specialty of your expertise or interest. If you’re interested in Medical Assisting and its many aspects, you may want to join the American Association of Medical Assistants. Becoming a member of an organization, you could learn new developments in your field and take part in all the benefits of being part of a local or national healthcare community.

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STEP #3: EVENTS Keep your eye out for healthcare events. You can search through forums, LinkedIn, and healthcare websites to see if there are any events in your area where you can network with healthcare professionals. Events are a great way to network with others. If you show up to events frequently, people may start to recognize you.

STEP #4: VOLUNTEER You can show your passion for your healthcare profession by volunteering at a local healthcare facility or organization. Volunteering will not only look good on your résumé and benefit the community, but you can meet others who are just as passionate about improving the health of others. Volunteering gives you the opportunity to expand your network and learn new developments about the healthcare world.

STEP #5: BUILD YOUR

PROFESSIONAL PRESENCE It’s always positive to differentiate yourself from the rest of your competition. Make sure your online presence and interpersonal skills stand out. Highlight personality traits that are seen as good or unique. For example, you could become recognized for your passion on a specific healthcare subject. If you build upon a certain trait, you may become known for it, which could help you to stand out from the crowd. With dedication and a positive attitude, you could start to make strong professional relationships with others in your healthcare field. You may expand your knowledge and professional horizons, which could lead you to advance your career and build upon your technical skills.

Source: www.harriscasel.com

(... continued from page 52)

work and work experience should reflect not only your values but your passion. Employers are always seeking the “best fit” employees for their organizations. Students should also seek the “best fit” employers to help them fulfill their goals and purposes.

CREATING A NETWORK Forbes magazine published a “top ten” list of contacts you should have in your network. “The trick,” the article says, “is to make sure you are building a diverse network by adding people from different industries, backgrounds, age groups, ethnic groups, etc. that fit into different roles. Building a deep network by only including people from your current profession or business focus leaves too many stones unturned, limiting potential opportunities.” An active network naturally encourages dialog about new employment opportunities. Lunch with an association president or local hospital board member can lead to insights about upcoming job openings. Regardless of whether you are pursuing a new job or planning to change jobs in the medical community, you should remain active and involved in organizations that fit your personal and professional interests.4

“I encourage prospective employees to identify what they like in a patient care setting and foster networks with those who match their preferences. Many of

our employees come to us after doing

a clinical rotation in one of our centers

while they are in school. Others seek us out based on our reputation or insight

they have gained from a family member or friend. At Medical Facilities of

America, our positions are advertised on our company websites and on

www.Indeed.com. To learn more, just go to www.mfa.net/careers.”

TODD PUTNEY Vice President of Human Resources Medical Facilities of America

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TOP QUESTIONS FOR INTERVIEWING HEALTHCARE EMPLOYEES •

Tell me about your last performance review. What was mentioned about how you could improve? Any re-occurring themes?

•

What situations kept you from fulfilling your job duties or from coming to work on time at your last job?

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Tell me about the most recent problem you had with a co-worker. Listen and then ask, how did you handle it?

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What about your character makes you a good candidate for this job?

•

Priorities often change suddenly throughout the day. If you are asked to quickly do another task, how does that affect your mood? What if it's the third time before noon?

PREPARING FOR

AN INTERVIEW Once you’ve made contact with a potential employer or have an interview scheduled, there are steps you can take to ensure it’s a positive interview. First, conduct more in-depth research. Before seeking an interview, a student should ideally have done research and applied only to organizations that share their mission or goal. It would be a waste of time, and misleading to an employer, to take an interview for a job you have no intention of accepting. Learn about the organization, its history and its vision. Learn who the key stakeholders are and who makes the final hiring decisions. Then ponder interview questions and prepare appropriate, honest answers. According to the Integrity Training Institute, “Most managers hire for skills, but fire for character. Because of the overwhelming problems associated with hiring employees who lack required character traits, more and more healthcare managers are asking character-discerning questions when interviewing employees.”6

•

What do you feel is an acceptable amount of days to be absent in a calendar year?

•

How do you handle situations that could cause you to be tardy or absent?

•

How did you fill downtime at your last job?

•

How have you responded in the past when you found another employee was stealing?

•

How have you responded in the past when your replacement calls in sick and a substitute will take over an hour to come in?

•

24/7 operations are like relay races where you take the baton, run with it and then pass it on smoothly. How do you make seamless transitions on shift changes?

•

During the last year, when your replacement hasn’t shown up and your manager asked you to stay late, what percentage of the time have you stayed late?

•

Think about the last time your manager critiqued your work. How did you respond?

SOURCES:

•

Give an example of when you did something without being asked. Can you give me another example?

2 The University of California at Davis. www.icc.ucdavis.edu/materials/resume/ resumecv.htm

•

Describe a recent problem you had with one of your manager's decisions. Listen and then ask, how did you handle it?

4 How to Build a Powerful Professional Network. www.forbes.com/job-search

•

Tell me about your most frustrating experience as a __________(job title). How did you handle it?

Being a sought-after employee or student should be a goal. Joining business associations or healthcare organizations can also add to a student’s résumé. However, nothing can replace focus, hard work and strong relationships.

Students should acquire academic integrity and valuable experience and build reputable references in the healthcare field. In Part I, OurHealth gave parents and students direction for finding a course load suited to entering a healthcare profession. Parts II, III and IV of the series showed how students should begin with academic focus, work hard to earn stellar grades and then build connections with people in their educational institutions and professions. As individuals progress and mature, by asking key questions and seeking wise counsel they can ensure they are guided down a path to success, not toward fear of graduation.

1 The American Association of Medical Colleges. www.aamc.org

3 The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. www.writingcenter.unc.edu/ handouts/curricula-vitae-cvs-versus-resumes 5

www.harriscasel.com/networking-tips-for-budding-professionals

The Integrity Institute. www.characterbasedleadership.com/health1.html

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Tricia Foley’s

PUMPKIN PANCAKES REGULAR INGREDIENTS: (serves 4) 1½ 1 1 2 2 2 3 2 1 1 1 ½ ½

cups whole milk cup pumpkin pie filling egg tablespoons vegetable oil tablespoons white vinegar cups all-purpose flour tablespoons brown sugar teaspoons baking powder teaspoon baking soda teaspoon ground allspice teaspoon ground cinnamon teaspoon ground ginger teaspoon salt

SWAP INGREDIENTS: (serves 4) SWAP FOR SWAP FOR SWAP FOR SWAP FOR SWAP FOR SWAP FOR

1½ 1 1 2 2 2 2 2 1 1 1 ½ ½

cups reduced fat (2%) milk cup pumpkin puree farm-fresh egg tablespoons olive oil tablespoons white vinegar cups white wheat flour tablespoons maple syrup teaspoons baking powder teaspoon baking soda teaspoon ground allspice teaspoon ground cinnamon teaspoon ground ginger teaspoon salt

DIRECTIONS

NUTRITION (per serving): 428.5 calories, 11.7g

NUTRITION (per serving): 345.5 calories, 12.1g

In a bowl, stir the milk, pumpkin pie filling, egg, oil and vinegar together. In a separate bowl, blend the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, allspice, cinnamon, ginger and salt, then stir this into the pumpkin mixture. Heat a pan coated with non-stick spray over medium high heat. Pour or spoon the batter onto the pan, using ¼ cup portions for each pancake. Brown on each side and serve immediately. fat, 2.8g saturated fat, 79.15g carbohydrates, 2.5g fiber, 29g sugar, 300mg sodium, and 11g protein.

In a bowl, stir the milk, pumpkin puree, egg, oil and vinegar together. In a separate bowl, blend the flour, maple syrup, baking powder, baking soda, allspice, cinnamon, ginger and salt, then stir this into the pumpkin mixture. Heat a pan coated with non-stick spray over medium high heat. Pour or spoon the batter onto the pan, using ¼ cup portions for each pancake. Brown on each side and serve immediately.

fat, 1.5g saturated fat, 58g carbohydrates, 8.3g fiber, 12g sugar, 43mg sodium, 11.6g protein.

Source: www.allrecipes.com

Swap Notes: Substituting pumpkin puree for pumpkin pie filling reduces sugar and adds fiber, and using wheat flour also enhances fiber content. Swapping olive oil for vegetable oil adds more healthy fats, as do the farm-fresh eggs. Finally, using maple syrup instead of sugar increases the dish’s nutrient density.

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Photography by CJ Harris

Breast cancer is no laughing matter, but for one night it is. The 3rd Annual Laugh for the Cure, was held recently at Tresca on 8th in Lynchburg. Over 185 people came together to support Susan G. Komen, Virginia Blue Ridge in their vision of a world without breast cancer. Since its inception in 2014, the event has raised over $124,000! Laugh for the Cure is chaired by five breast cancer survivors and fighters: Debbie Baroch, Leecy Fink, Sherric Fleck, Amy Koudelka and Page Langley. The evening was filled with tears and laughter â&#x20AC;&#x201C; including some laughter through the tears, as survivors, their families and friends came together to share their stories of hope and survival while enjoying the amazing comedy show from headliners Jody Kerns, a breast cancer survivor herself, and Will Jacobs. For even more photos, visit our website at www.ourhealthlbss.com To learn more about the local chapter of the Susan G. Komen foundation, visit www.komenvablueridge.org.

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the 2016 OurHealth Lynchburg and Southside Primary Care Series: an issue-by-issue overview

PART

+++

february

| march

KNOW YOUR CARE: understanding your health and how to maintain it

+++ april

| may

DO YOUR CARE: taking action with your health

+++ june

MEASURE YOUR

care words | GERI ASTON

Improving your health requires lasting lifestyle changes that affect the way you eat, your activity level, your mindset and your interactions with your doctor.

Tracking Your Efforts to Ensure You’re on the Right Path!

Oftentimes the plan includes losing weight because overweight and obesity play a major role in many chronic conditions — high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, arthritis and sleep disorders, for example. The temptation is to measure your success by your weight. But the scale is just one measuring tool, and it doesn’t capture the full impact of the lifestyle changes you’ve made.

This article, the fifth in a yearlong OurHealth series about primary care, examines other ways to keep tabs on your progress toward better health.

| july

SHARE YOUR CARE: setting good examples for others to learn and live by

+++ august

| september

INSPIRE YOUR CARE:

keeping creative with fresh care ideas

+++ october

| november

MEASURE YOUR CARE:

tracking your efforts to ensure you’re on the right path

+++ december

| january

CELEBRATE YOUR CARE:

rejoicing the rewards realized from taking good care of yourself

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“Raid” the Fridge Storm your fridge and pantry — not to grab a snack, but to check their contents.

STOCK THE FRIDGE with Fresh Foods •

Load up on the fruits and vegetables

•

Shop for simple foods with real ingredients

•

Start reading the labels of the foods in your pantry, the fewer the ingredients, the better

•

Avoid foods with unrecognizable ingredients

•

Avoid high doses of salt, saturated fat and/or trans-fat

Primary care providers we have interviewed for this OurHealth series have recommended that people move away from foods made in a factory, sweets, sugary beverages and junk food. Instead, they have suggested that people eat more fresh foods, especially vegetables and fruit. If money is tight, frozen vegetables and fruits can be good, less-expensive alternatives. Is your fridge stocked with fresh items? Are there plenty of vegetables and fruits? If so, you’re on the right track. If not, it’s time to re-evaluate your buying choices. Doctors have also recommend that people shop for simple foods with real ingredients. Read the labels on the food in your cupboard or pantry. Do the items have just one or only a few ingredients that you don’t recognize? Are they low in sugar, salt (Continued on page 64...)

OurHealth | The Resource for Healthy Living in Lynchburg and Southside

GETTING YOUR ZZZZ’S Getting a good night's sleep does more than keep you feeling refreshed. According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, it plays an important role in your physical and mental health. In the extreme, the damage from not getting enough sleep can occur in an instant, such as a car crash, the National Institutes of Health notes. Meanwhile, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that 83,000 crashes annually between 2005 and 2009 were related to drowsy driving. Over time, the lack of sleep can hurt your health in a number of ways, NHLBI says. Sleep is involved in the healing and repair of your heart and blood vessels. Ongoing sleep deficiency is linked to an increased risk of heart disease, kidney disease, high blood pressure and stroke. Sleep helps maintain a healthy balance of important hormones, including the ones that make you feel hungry or full. Lack of sleep makes you feel hungrier and increases your risk for obesity. Sleep also affects the hormone that controls your blood glucose (sugar) level. Sleep deficiency results in a higher than normal blood sugar level, which over time can increase the risk for diabetes. Your immune system relies on sleep to stay healthy. Ongoing sleep deficiency can change the way your immune system responds, for example, by making it more difficult to fight common infections. Sleep also helps your brain work properly, NHLBI says. During sleep your brain is preparing for the next day — it's when your brain forms new pathways to help you learn and remember information. If you don’t get enough sleep, you may have trouble making decisions, solving problems, controlling your emotions and behavior and coping with change. Sleep deficiency also has been linked to depression and suicide.

Sleep also helps your brain work properly. During sleep your brain is preparing for the next day — it's when your brain forms new pathways to help you learn and remember information. If you don’t get enough sleep, you may have trouble making decisions, solving problems, controlling your emotions and behavior and coping with change. Sleep deficiency also has been linked to depression and suicide. Source: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

How do you know if you’re getting enough sleep? Last year, the National Sleep Foundation came out with the following recommendations for healthy amounts of sleep.

Age Young Adults (18-25)

Adults (26-64)

Older Adults (65+)

Recommended

May be appropriate

Not recommended

7 - 9 hours

6 hours; 10 - 11 hours

< 6 hours or > 11 hours

7 - 9 hours

6 hours; 10 hours

< 6 hours or > 10 hours

7 - 8 hours

5 to 6 hours; 9 hours

< 5 hours or > 9 hours

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(... continued from page 62)

and saturated fat and contain no trans fat? If you answered “yes,” it’s a sign you’re eating right.

The Lowdown on CHECKUPS FOR ADULTS

Or is your pantry full of chips, sweets and other products with long lists of unrecognizable ingredients and high doses of sugar, salt, and saturated or trans fat? If you answered “yes,” you need to shop healthier.

Regular checkups are important even for people who feel well. They give your doctor a chance to screen for diseases, determine if you’re at risk for future medical problems and update vaccinations. Checkups also help you maintain a relationship with your doctor so he or she can better help you when you are ill.

Put Pep in Your Step Keeping physically active is part of a healthy lifestyle. The health improvement plan you developed with your doctor likely includes some goals for being more active.

But how often do you need a checkup? Here are some recommendations.

One way to measure success is to monitor how much physical

Eye Exam

activity you weave into your day

18 to 39: Every 2 years if you have a vision problem, more often if recommended by your eye doctor.

or week. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says typical adults should get two

40 to 54: Every 2 - 4 years

and a half hours of moderate

55 to 64: Every 1 - 3 years

activity a week and perform muscle strengthening activities

65 and older: Every 1 - 2 years

two or more days a week. Moderate activity means exercise

Dental Exam

you could do while carrying on a

Adults should go to the dentist once or twice a year for an exam and cleaning. Your dentist will decide if you need more frequent visits.

of breath, like brisk walking.

Physical/Wellness Visit There’s no rule of thumb about when to get a physical. It depends on how healthy you are in addition to your age. Under 30: If you’re healthy — don’t smoke, have no disease risk factors (including being overweight) and don’t take prescription medications — get a checkup every 2-3 years. Others should ask their doctors how often they need a physical. 30-40: Healthy individuals should get a physical every other year.

conversation without getting out

Tracking the amount of activity you get is just one measure, though. It’s also helpful to evaluate the effect your activity has had on the way you feel and on your endurance. If your goal was to improve your fitness by walking, are you feeling more energetic? Are you able to walk farther than before? Do you breathe easier while you walk? The same measures apply to jogging. Maybe your increased activity level has given you the ability to do something you weren’t in shape to do before, like taking an aerobics class, walking the golf course instead of riding a cart or chasing after your grandchildren in the park. These would all be positive signs of a healthier you.

50 and over: Annual physicals are recommended.

Minding your Mind Improving your health isn’t a neck-down endeavor. Positive mental health is part of the whole picture. 64

Research shows that exercise can help reduce anxiety and improve mood. Sunshine and exercise boost the level of serotonin, a chemical your body produces that is important for healthy brain function. Exercising with friends or family is good for your physical and mental health because socializing eases anxiety and depression. If you’re nine months into your health improvement plan, it’s time to take stock of its impact on your mental health. Are you feeling more motivated, happier or less stressed now than you were before? Sometimes a mental health problem can

MEASURING

block efforts to improve your physical health. Depression can make a person unmotivated to

MENTAL HEALTH

exercise, eat right or take their medications. That can lead to a chronic illness or worsen an existing one. An underlying mental health issue could be the reason for a physical problem such as obesity.

When mental health symptoms affect your ability to work or to enjoy relationships or your life, doctors recommend getting help from a mental health professional. If that’s the case with you, have you made an appointment yet? If you have, are you continuing to keep your appointments? If you were prescribed mental health medications, are they working? (Many medicines for mental health don’t take full effect for several weeks or months.) If you answered “yes” to these questions, it’s a good indication that you’re on the way toward better mental health. If you answered “no,” it’s time to check in with your doctor to figure out what’s going on so you can come up with solutions.

When mental health symptoms affect your ability to work or to enjoy relationships or your life, doctors recommend getting help from a mental health professional. YES NO

Have you made an appointment yet?

YES NO Are you continuing to keep your

appointments? YES NO If you were prescribed mental health

medications, are the they working? If you answered YES to these questions, it’s a good measure that you’re on the way toward better mental health. If you answered NO, it’s time to check in with your doctor to figure out what’s going on and come up with solutions.

www.OurHealthlbss.com

Better Labs and Less Medicine People with chronic diseases often need to get regular lab tests. The results help you and your doctor measure whether your lifestyle changes and medication are working. At nine months into your health improvement plan, have your lab results improved? If you’re diabetic, is your blood sugar in better control? If you’ve got high blood pressure or high cholesterol, are those numbers coming down? If so, keep up the good work. If not, it’s time to contact your physician. Primary care physicians interviewed for this series urge their patients to call their office when they’re having trouble sticking with a health improvement plan. More often than not, doctors can suggest solutions. But doctors can’t help if they don’t know there is a problem. It’s also important to keep followup appointments and get the lab tests your doctor suggests. Life is busy, but you have to make time for your health. A reduction in the amount of medication you need to take can also serve as a measure of your success. Maybe because you’re eating better and exercising, you’ve gotten healthy enough for your doctor to lower the dose of your blood pressure medicine. Or perhaps your healthier lifestyle means you’re reaching less often for the pain relievers in your medicine cabinet. 66

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Positive results like these count whether you’ve lost weight or not.

Don’t Give Up What if you don’t see the results you hoped for when you started on your health improvement plan? Doctors say you shouldn’t give up or beat yourself up over it. Talk to your physician about your concerns to get advice on how to achieve the change you want. If any of your results are negative, you can use them as motivation to improve. Everyday is a new day to make good health choices.

Next in Our Series Part VI of OurHealth magazine's six-part series, “The Bridge to Better Health Starts With Primary Care,” examines ways you can celebrate the rewards realized from taking good care of yourself. Be on the lookout for Part VI in the December/ January issue! Sources “How Much Sleep Do We Really Need,” National Sleep Foundation, www.sleepfoundation.org. “Physical Exam Frequency,” MedLinePlus, National Institutes of Health, National Library of Medicine, www.medlineplus.gov. “Research on Drowsy Driving,” National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, www.nhtsa.gov. “Should you get an annual physical?” DukeHealth, www.dukehealth.org. “Why Is Sleep Important?” National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, www.nhlbi.nih.gov.

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THERE’S NO

PLACE LIKE

HOME words | RICK PIESTER

Generation Solutions unveils a referral service of qualified home maintenance experts, available to anyone at any age. To many older people, nothing is more important than spending their years in their own homes. The urge to age at home is so powerful that less than five percent of Americans age 65 and over live in some sort of a group home like a nursing home or a continuing care retirement community. As time goes on, that percentage is declining. Within the next few decades, furthermore, the number of older Americans will double. People who work in senior care often refer to this as the coming “silver tsunami.” The challenges of staying at home throughout retirement tend to grow as one ages. Steep stairs can create an interest in single-floor living, and slippery showers pose dangers that can be countered by revamped bathrooms with nonskid floors and grab bars. Few conventional homes are set up for occupants in wheelchairs, however. For older people, additionally, even “routine” home maintenance can become troublesome. Most people’s physical strength and dexterity decline as they age, along with what might once have been a strong interest in do-it-yourself projects. Also, many older Americans are at risk of receiving poor quality work, being overcharged, or being victimized by dishonest “contractors” who collect a sizeable down payment on an overpriced project, then simply disappear. www.OurHealthlbss.com

To take advantage of the service, all you need to do is to call Generation Solutions. From there, you’ll be connected with a staffer whose full-time job includes responding to inquiries for contractors. After discussing your project, the staffer will offer you several contractors to choose from and then contact whatever contractor you choose or let you contact them directly.

434.455.6500

for Lynchburg

540.776.3622

nch

b u rg & So u

th s id

OurHea

lth

for Roanoke

AWARDS 201

6 GOLD

OurHealth | The Resource for Healthy Living in Lynchburg and Southside

Home improvement scams are a national disgrace that has caught the attention of the leadership of Generation Solutions, the 20-year-old company that provides an array of services to help people spend their retirement years at home. The company itself was founded on the widespread desire of older Americans and their families for seniors to live comfortably and safely in their own homes. It’s grown to be an award-winning agency dedicated to doing whatever is necessary to help aging clients remain independent and healthy. Bothered by the near-constant stories of home construction scams that reached him from the family members, friends, and neighbors of Generation Solution clients, the company’s founder and CEO, P. Tulane Patterson, started brainstorming ways to combat the problem. His approach: to develop an in-house, vetted directory of experts and reliable choices in a variety of home maintenance and construction specialties. The timing on this project couldn’t have been better, since the CEO’s daughter, Catherine Patterson, was on a summer break from her college (Continued on page 72...)

FREE E-BOOK To get a better idea of the top modifications for making a home safe for seniors, Generation Solutions is offering a free download of its digital booklet “How to Make a Home Senior-Friendly.” To receive this guide, go to the Generation Solutions website (www.generationsolutions.net), look for the “Services” tab and click on the “Home Modifications” link. Next, find the booklet cover and follow the downloading instructions. This website is secure and safe.

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Contractor Alliance Services Include:

(...continued from page 70)

Painting

As such, October will see the launch of the Generation Solutions Contractor Alliance, with the company ready to make referrals — from separate lists in the Roanoke and Lynchburg areas — of reliable contractors from nearly a dozen specialties in home construction and maintenance, including plumbing, electrical, heating and cooling, home modification, tree service, painting, driveway maintenance, gutter cleaning and repair, lawn care, and snow removal.

Electrical Gutter Cleaning & Repair Roofing Driveway Maintenance Tree Service Lawn Care Snow Removal Plumbing Heating & Cooling Home Modification

studies and was available to team up with Generation Solutions’ home care consultant Treena Koroneos to bring this service to life.

“We spent a great deal of time developing these lists,” notes Catherine Patterson. “We researched contractors in each area, talked with them, and did additional research with the Better Business Bureau, the State Corporation Commission, the courts, and more and narrowed the lists down to companies that want to give seniors quality work and who fit our company’s mission of keeping seniors safe. Our aim was to wind up with two to three possibilities in each specialty area.” Better yet, anyone of any age, regardless of being a Generation Solutions client or not, will be able to get referrals to specialists in whatever area of work they need. There’s absolutely no fee for this service. To take advantage of the service, all you need to do is to call Generation Solutions at 434.455.6500 for Lynchburg and the surrounding counties or at 540.776.3622 for Roanoke and the nearby areas. From there, you’ll be connected with a staffer whose full-time job includes responding to inquiries for contractors. After discussing your project, the staffer will offer you several contractors to choose from and then contact whatever contractor you choose or let you contact them directly. The work itself and payment for it remains strictly between you and the contractor, and Generation Solutions will follow up to make sure your initial contact was satisfactory.

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closer LOOK

Can you identify which local practice the image belongs to?

E E R AF

n N o I i W cript

h s t b l u a S e H r u ! e O n o i T agaz M

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