Joy to Life Magazine--Summer 2019

VOLUME TWO, SUMMER 2019 ISSUE THREE

k r a P it's summa time!

it

Relax & Refuel Toes in the sand, head in the clouds

+

LIVE HERE. GIVE HERE.

10 Ways to Stay Youthful

Support Breast Cancer Health In Every County in Alabama.

Y O U R H E A LT H OUR MISSION

C O M PA S S I O N AT E

CARE

F O R T H E H E A LT H O F A

LIFETIME.

While the health and wellness of our patients is continually changing, our dedication to offering supportive care never does. Our mission is to pair the latest technologies and medical expertise with kindness and compassion you’ll feel from every one of our physicians, nurses, staff and volunteers. It’s how we’re providing outstanding support, love and comfort—close to home.

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR COMPASSIONATE CARE AT

BAPTISTFIRST.ORG

Hello everyone.

And happy summer!

SU MMER 2019

PUBLISHER

I am really excited about this latest issue of our Joy to Life magazine. Not

JTL Publishing Photography by Big Dreamz Creative

too long ago, thanks to an invitation from our good friend Jere Beasley, my husband Dickie and I met Holly Rowe at a Quarterback club meeting in Montgomery. She, of course, is very well known as an ESPN journal-

EDITOR Joy Blondheim MANAGING EDITOR Jennifer Stewart Kornegay

ist, and anyone who follows college

Lastly, David Barranco, owner of

football knows Holly Rowe.

Chappy’s Deli, a beloved member of

ART DIRECTOR

the Montgomery community and a

Erika Rowe Tracy

Holly was so very kind to agree to an

breast cancer survivor himself, tells

interview for this issue. Her inter-

his story of his cancer journey in this

view is very different from any that

issue. Yes! Men do get breast cancer

she has done before. We are extreme-

too. His humor shines through in his

ly grateful to Holly for allowing us

story, and you’re going to love it!

to share her story. She has learned some major life lessons from her can-

Have fun this summer with family

cer diagnosis, and, as you will read,

and friends, and here’s to health,

she credits her job with one of the

happiness and “joy to life!”

our very successful “Walk of Life”

April. We at Joy to Life consider the

Joy Blondheim Editor & Co-Founder, Joy to Life Foundation

“Walk of Life” to be a major

walk oflifeAP

awareness event for breast cancer in the River Region. Your

20 19 REC

participation and support mean so much to us at JTL!

MARKETING & DISTRIBUTION exploreMedia 334.578.7810

COPY EDITOR

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Jennifer Stewart Kornegay, Kym Klass

Also in this issue, we are recapping

ing this fantastic morning back in

Big Dreamz Creative

Jenny Enslen Stubbs

ways she has remained positive.

2019, and I hope you have fun reliv-

DIGITAL MEDIA PRODUCERS

CHECK OUT

WHY I WALK

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Big Dreamz Creative ON THE COVER Go check out the “new and improved” Gulf State Park this summer.

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY Nancy Fields/Big Dreamz Creative

PARTICIPANTS’ STORIES.

“We are survivors!”

-A few 2019 Walk participants

Joy to Life is published quarterly by JTL Publishing. © 2019 All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part is prohibited without permission from the publisher.

Joy to Life reserves the right to determine the suitability of all materials submitted for publication and to edit all submitted materials for clarity and space. Joy to Life is not responsible for damage, loss or any other injury to unsolicited manuscripts and/or unsolicited artwork. This includes, but is not limited to, drawings, photography, transparencies or any other unsolicited material. Joy to Life does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertising or editorial. The publishers do not assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial appear. Joy to Life is a news magazine with information on health, leisure activities and a healthy lifestyle. Readers are advised to consult their physicians before participating in any sport or fitness activity or starting any exercise, dietary or nutritional program published in Joy to Life.

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A PUBLICATION OF THE JOY TO LIFE FOUNDATION

PHOTOGRAPHY BY NANCY FIELDS/BIG DREAMZ CREATIVE

SUMMER ISSUE 08

FEATURES

08

08 30 REAL LIFE

A Conversation with David Barranco

14 THE DISH

32 GREAT GOODS

18 FORWARD MOTION

36 SKIN DEEP

20 TO LIFE

45 TO LIFE

Bring on the Blues

Products & Gear

Get Your Motor Running

The Game of Her Life: Holly Rowe

24 EVERYDAY JOY

10 Ways to Remain Youthful

Keeping Connected

48 GO & DO

Calendar of Events

2019 Walk of Life

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JOYTOLIFE.ORG

Relax and re-fuel with a “back-to-nature” beach experience.

VITAMIN SEA

On your mark, get set, let go.

A getaway to Alabama’s beaches is always an escape, but a visit to Gulf State Park takes you even farther from the hectic hustle and bustle of our modern lives by offering healthy doses of fresh ocean air and some vitamin “sea.” This swath of calm and quiet is a respite from the reveling crowds that often descend on the Orange Beach and Gulf Shores areas every summer. Occupying 6,150 acres (including more than three miles of beachfront) right between these two coastal communities, the Park is a special “less-touched” spot in Alabama’s little piece of paradise.

BY JENNIFER STEWART KORNEGAY • PHOTOGR APHY BY BIG DRE AMZ CRE ATIVE

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A new, greener Gulf State Park Following the original property’s destruction by Hurricane Ivan, the new building footprint was reduced by nearly one-third, and it was set farther back from the Gulf to allow for greater dune restoration.

And it just recently added a new

to the forefront, and sustainability

oasis: The Lodge at Gulf State Park.

and the continued protection of the

For decades, the beach’s state park

environment were the driving forces

included a lodge that served visitors

behind The Lodge’s design, an aspect

well for nearly 30 years. But in 2004,

that sets it apart from many other

the original lodge was destroyed by

structures.

Hurricane Ivan. Now, this accommodation option is back and better than

The building footprint was reduced

ever.

by nearly one-third and set farther

The new property boasts 350 guest

er dune restoration. This commit-

rooms and 20 suites (all with free

ment to exist in harmony with its

wi-fi, 50-inch TVs and stellar views of

surroundings extends to the Lodge’s

either the glittering Gulf or shimmer-

modern but organic aesthetic: Its size

ing Lake Shelby), plus a fitness center,

and shape combined with the colors

infinity edge pool, several restaurants

and textures of its materials don’t

and cafes and an abundance of both

detract from nature but blend into it.

indoor and outdoor meeting space for

And its architecture blurs the lines

groups and events.

between indoor and outdoor spac-

back from the Gulf to allow for great-

es. The result is both stunning and Its beachfront location and the

soothing, making it the perfect place

preserved Park grounds it’s nestled

to rest and recharge.

among bring the beauty of the area

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A PUBLICATION OF THE JOY TO LIFE FOUNDATION

A view to see by shore.

Occupying 6,150 acres (including more than three miles of beachfront) right between these two coastal communities, the Park is a special “lesstouched” spot in Alabama’s little piece of paradise.

OUTSIDE

PLAY

IN THE PARK

AL

While the Lodge is the new attraction, like all of our state parks, Gulf State Park features a wide range of outdoor activities that will easily pull you away from it. Play a match or two on the tennis courts; wander through miles of live oaks, marsh lands and wild muscadine vines via its 25 miles of educational hiking and biking trails; paddle board, boat and fish on the 900-acre Lake Shelby; cool off in a swimming pool; or learn all about the area’s ecosystem at the Nature Center, the Butterfly Garden and the new Interpretive Center. And of course, save time to relax and dig your toes deep into the sand on the Park’s pristine stretch of beach.

The Park also boasts another can’t-miss experience, one that’s fun for the whole family: The Gulf State Pier. This 1,540-foot-long pier is the largest in the Gulf of Mexico, and on any given day or night, you’ll find folks from all walks of life trying their luck with a rod and reel. Even if you’re not interested in fishing, it’s a treat to walk the pier on a warm evening and see what others are hauling in. You never know what ocean creatures you might see.

Make your move PINK YOUR

Learn more about all Gulf State Park offers and claim your room at the Lodge or book a cottage or cabin at alapark.com/gulfstate.

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WILD

KEEP IT

The seven trails covering 25 miles of the Hugh S. Branon Backcountry Trail System

traverse the Park. Exploring them on foot or bike gives you a closer look at the plants and animals that occupy this special area. Several boast a simultaneously lovely and eerie landscape formed by the wrath of Hurricane Fredric in 1979, where hundreds of long-dead trees, gray and bare, provide resting spots for all types of birds. Don’t miss Alligator Marsh Trail. Observe alligators, frogs, turtles and other animals that call the canal and marsh grass home. And remember, to preserve this unspoiled area for future generations, “leave nothing but footprints; take nothing but memories.” And plenty of pictures!

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A PUBLICATION OF THE JOY TO LIFE FOUNDATION

A WILD RETREAT Check out the on-site Nature Center for more animal fun.

GREEN GONE

A few more of The Lodge’s standout “green” stats:

Water: Condensation from the HVAC system is collected and recycled to replace water in the pool. Additionally, rainwater is collected and directed to a restored wetland onsite rather than being diverted to storm sewers. The hotel also features a permeable parking lot using TrueGrid technology that allows rainwater to drain into the ground.

Plants & Animals: To help ensure no baby turtles are pulled away from their journey back to the sea by human activity,

The Lodge was designed by LakeFlato and Rabun Architects with a native landscape by Sasaki Associates, and the emphasis was on conservation of the coastline and protection for the flora and fauna that occupy the area ecosystems. The hotel was constructed to meet the elevated standards of LEED Gold, SITES Platinum and FORTIFIED Commercial certifications. Fifteen percent of building materials are recycled materials, and 70 to 75 percent of construction waste was recycled instead of going to a landfill.

there are no site lights pointing to the beach, and all lighting is shielded away from turtle nesting areas.

Approximately 75 percent of the site’s landscaping uses native species that can thrive without irrigation, chemical pesticides or fertilizers. Native species also enhance and restore

Rainwater is collected and directed to a restored wetland on site.

the wild coastal landscape, creating habitat for birds, nesting sea turtles and the Alabama Beach Mouse.

Energy: Guest room air conditioning units were installed with sensors that cut off the unit if balcony doors or windows are left open or ajar, plus the hotel is 12

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STAY FOR A LITTLE WHILE

equipped with energy efficient lighting with motion sensors to reduce waste. And AC and electric lighting is often not even needed; the buildings are positioned to take advantage of Gulf breezes for natural ventilation and to flood interiors with natural light. This design reduces

Gulf State Park has accommodations

also have fishing piers. The Park’s 20

other than The Lodge. Charming

cabins include 16 on the lake, with

cottages dot Lake Shelby’s shoreline

the other four, called the “woods”

far into the Park and far away from

cabins, set in the longleaf pine and

the noise nearer the beaches. Most of

palmetto forest that covers much of

these cottages are fairly new, and all

the Park. The cabins are smaller and

have three bedrooms, three bath-

older than the cottages but offer the

rooms, a den, a fully equipped kitch-

same amenities. The “woods” cabins

en, two screened porches and a deck

welcome guests with pets.

overlooking the water. The cottages

energy usage by 32 percent relative to a typical facility of this same size.

All the fun in the sun at the state park is bound to work up an appetite.

Get the dish on the park’s new places to eat and find a full Alabama Gulf Coast Dining Guide at joytolifemagazine.org.

Waste: The hotel team recycles all cooking oil and sorts trash into separate bins for composting, animal feed, recycling and more. The hotel also uses plant-based water bottles, Hay Straws® and straws made from reusable bamboo shoots, both of which are biodegradable and made from abundant resources.

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A PUBLICATION OF THE JOY TO LIFE FOUNDATION

the dish

Summer brings us bushes hanging heavy with frosted-indigo fruit.

BRING on the

blues Plump blueberries are welcome signs of summer. The season is in full swing by the time

&

Good Good For You

Blueberries’ great benefits: Low in calories and high in fiber.

Packed with vitamin C, vitamin K and manganese.

Full of antioxidants called flavonoids that fight free radicals and lessen damage to your DNA and prevent cancer.

Can lower blood pressure.

they’re good and ripe, and even though that means it’s hot, a trip to U-pick farm to fill a few buckets is worth the time, effort and any temporary sweat-induced discomfort.

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Contribute to a healthy heart.

fill up Stock up on fresh blueberries, some of this season’s sweetest treats.

If you go blueberry picking, go ahead and get a bunch. If you don’t think you can eat them all before they spoil, freeze them to use later. Blueberries freeze beautifully, thaw quickly and really brighten up a winter morning when popped into homemade pancakes or muffins.

u-pick pro tips

Here’s how to freeze berries best.

Go early to avoid the heaviest heat,

Dry berries thoroughly.

and take your time, wandering

Place in a single layer on sheet pans.

among the rows of bushes, looking for the best ber-

Put the pans in the

ries (and watching out

freezer, uncovered, for a few hours.

for fire-ant beds, frequently found alongside the plants). It’s good manners and good picking

They’ll come off the stem with only

practice to never pick one bush

minimal effort, no tugging or yank-

clean.

ing required.

And the easiest way to ensure

Then, pay for your bounty and feel

you’re getting the ones truly ready

free to eat up! But be sure to save

and leave the lesser ones there

some for these healthy, blueber-

to finish ripening, try this: Cup a berry bunch in your hand and jostle it just a bit, rolling the biggest ones

ry-packed treats that make the most of them when they’re at their peak.

with the deepest color gently between your index finger and thumb.

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A PUBLICATION OF THE JOY TO LIFE FOUNDATION

Quickly transfer the now frozen berries to freezer-safe zip-top bags and return to the freezer for later use.

Consider how you’ll use them and choose the portion for each bag accordingly. If you’re not sure, freezing in two-cup portions is a good rule of thumb.

stay cool

Creamy Blueberry Basil Pops

go get 'em Eating local produce is good for you (tastes better, costs less) and good for our local economies.

MAKES 6 TO 8 POPSICLES

Visit these U-pick berry farms around the state.

2 cups blueberries,

TALLADEGA

WILSONVILLE

Holmestead Farm holmesteadfarm.com

Lyon Blueberry Farm 205-864-5701

1/2 cup whole blueberries

MILLBROOK

FAIRHOPE

2 cups plain Greek yogurt

Barber Berry Farm barberberryfarm.com

Weeks Bay Plantation weeksbayplantation.com

cooked down and cooled (see instructions below)

keep it simple

Basic Blueberry Syrup

1/4 cup basil simple syrup, cooled (see instructions below) Mix all gently and pour into popsicle molds.

Freeze and enjoy!

COOKED BERRIES: Place 2 cups blueberries

Spoon this stuff on frozen yogurt, waffles, cornbread, whatever!

2 cups blueberries 1.5 teaspoons sugar 1/4 cup water

and 1/4 cup water in a cook over medium heat until berries have released their juices and started to soften and thicken. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.

Place berries in medium water. Put on medium-high heat and simmer. Once the berries begin to break down, turn the heat back a bit and keep cooking until they start to thicken to a syrupy consistency. It should take about 10-15 minutes.

ANNISTON Bennett’s Blueberry Farm / 256-236-6410

freshpicked

Events

**Organic blueberries

pro pickin' tip:

Remember to check the farm’s website or call before you go to make sure their hours haven’t changed and that their fields aren’t picked clean (it happens!).

medium sauce pan and

Set aside to cool. saucepan with sugar and

take your pick

BASIL SIMPLE SYRUP: In a separate small saucepan stir together 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup water and 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves to a boil. Let boil 1 minute to ensure sugar is dissolved.

Turn off heat and let stand for 30 minutes. Strain and cool. Keep leftover syrup in your fridge and stir into iced tea or lemonade.

ALABAMA BLUEBERRY FESTIVAL JUNE 15 BREWTON, ALA.

Blueberry ice cream, blueberry pie, blueberry cobbler, blueberry jelly, blueberry bread pudding. The ways to enjoy the sweet-tart pop of flavor packed into this tiny indigo fruit are many and varied, and there’s no better place to take a big bite out of blueberry season.

You can buy berries by the pint, by the crate or by the flat, just picked and at the peak of their

freshness. Or if you’d like to grow your own, you can buy a few blueberry bushes and anxiously anticipate picking blueberries in your own backyard next summer. alabamablueberry festival.com

HARVEST NIGHTS JUNE 15 FAIRHOPE, ALA.

The good folks at Weeks Bay Plantation have raised the bar on berry events with their Harvest Nights. weeksbay plantation.com

TION FORWA RD MO

GET YOUR

r o t o M

RUNNING

They add extra time to any workout, so are warming up and cooling down really necessary?

Only if you want to be safe and get the most from your exercise. BY KIM KLASS

A BASIC WARM-UP: Stand and do high knee raises.

Do some leg swings.

Perform some slower walking lunges while circling your arms.

With the right warm-up, you should feel your heart rate climbing and your breathing increase.

STRETCH IT Michele Olson, PhD, a senior clinical professor of sports science at Huntingdon College, recommends stretching at any time is good.

GOING FOR A RUN? If running, move into a brisk walk and then jog, and then a slow first mile before finding your stride within the first 10 minutes.

WHY

WHEN

“Stretching really will help

“Do it as part of your cool

your muscles to recover and

down; when your muscles are

prevent the amount of muscle

heated up and full of blood and

soreness. You’ll still get sore,

nutrients, it’s the perfect time

but research shows your sore-

to effectively stretch them with

ness will be less.”

a lower chance of pulling a muscle.”

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TAKE IT FROM A PRO Whether you’re running, playing tennis or hitting a spin class, it is important to remember to treat your body like a machine: warm it up and start slow.

You wouldn’t floor the acceler-

ed and for that blood to start

ator of a cold car. Its oil is too

moving around and your blood

thick and hasn’t had a chance

pressure to appropriately

to infiltrate the engine to help

increase.”

it run smoothly.

The three basic components to Your body is no different.

any exercise conditioning ses-

Warming it up, said Michele

sion are warmup, condition-

Olson, PhD, a senior clinical

ing stimulus and cool down,

professor of sports science at

according to the American

Huntingdon College, is “really

College of Sports Medicine.

delivering oxygen and nutri-

The warmup and cool down

ents to your heart muscle and

should be performed at about

your skeletal muscles, so that

50 percent of stimulus intensi-

when you start pushing harder,

ty—in other words, you should

they have what they need to do

be able to hold a conversation

that—they have extra oxygen;

without much difficulty. The

they have the extra nutrients.”

warmup and cool down may take between five and 15

Not warming up before

minutes, depending on age and

exercise, she said, can lead to

fitness level, according to the

skipped heartbeats because

ACSM.

the heart does not receive

Average LENGTH 10-15 minutes

SLOW IT DOWN Cooling down is just as important.

“Your hormones—like your adrenaline, growth hormones, insulin levels—all these chemicals in your body are running at a really high level,” Olson said. “If you just stop, you could bottom out.”

You could feel lightheaded and faint.

Or you could immediately feel sore.

Working in reverse order to help bring the body and its processes gradually back to resting level could help prevent this.

enough oxygen. This lack of

You want to keep active but

oxygen, as well as a lack of nu-

move at a slower pace and

trients due to lower blood flow,

keep reducing that pace every

can also lead to muscle cramps

minute or two. Olson suggests

or even a tear or pull because

going for a walk, taking some

you’re asking your body’s

longer steps, performing shoul-

Olson suggests going for a walk,

organs to perform without the

der shrugs. Feel your heart rate

taking some longer steps, perform-

proper prep. “Our blood has to

go down and your breathing

ing shoulder shrugs. Feel your heart

get to all our muscle cells, and

get slower. “This should be

rate go down and your breathing get

more blood has to get to the

done within 30 minutes to 45

slower. “This should be done within

heart,” Olson said. “You really

minutes after a workout, while

30 minutes to 45 minutes after a

can’t do that by going zero to

your heart rate and blood flow

60. It takes several minutes

are still higher than they would

to get your heart rate elevat-

be at rest,” Olson said.

workout, while your heart rate and blood flow are still higher than they would be at rest,” Olson said.

You want to keep active but move at a slower pace and keep reducing that pace every minute or two.

GA ME Meet a cancer survivor giving it her all on and off the field.

HOLLY ROWE

OF HE R L IF E

Image by Melissa Rawlins/ESPN Images

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FAMED SPORTS JOURNALIST HOLLY ROWE HAS FOUGHT THROUGH ADVERSITY TO BEAT BACK CANCER, AND SHE SHARES HOW HER CAREER HAS HELPED HER ON HER JOURNEY IN MORE WAYS THAN ONE. If you’re into college football, you know who Holly Rowe is. Her sunny smile and info-packed sideline reporting and commentary add something special to games all autumn long. Though the ESPN journalist and fan favorite is a fixture in football stadiums, she’s passionate about all sports and also routinely covers men’s and women’s basketball and softball as well as the NBA and WNBA. In May of 2015, the sports world was saddened to learn that Rowe was diagnosed with a rare form of melanoma, and as a public figure who refused to miss much work, her treatment process, the news her cancer had spread and her recovery played out for all to see.

At the time, she was candid about what she was going through, but here, Rowe opens up even more, sharing what’s helped her cope and why the abundant kindness of others has inspired her to pay the

FIND THE JOY

sentiment forward.

“During my cancer journey, I started keeping a joy journal to record the little moments each day that made me absolutely happy and joyful. I would just close my eyes, and let that joy wash over me.

I’d soak it in. It has kept me going and happy through a difficult time.

I have kept that habit and just stop during the busy, crazy times of life to really appreciate these joy-filled moments.” – Holly Rowe

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A PUBLICATION OF THE JOY TO LIFE FOUNDATION

Read more about Holly Rowe and her career path at joytolifemagazine.org.

SO THEY CAN AVOID THE SAME MISTAKES I FELT I MADE EARLY ON. Holly and her son, McKylin.

JTL MAG: WAS YOUR CANCER DISCOVERED AS THE RESULT OF A REGULAR SCREENING? HR: Yes. I had gone in to have a suspicious mole checked about a year before, and they had done a biopsy and told me everything was fine. The scar healed oddly and continued to get bigger. I saw a photo of myself and saw that what had been a small scar was now pushing up my dress as a lump. I went to the dermatologist, and they did another biopsy and came back with the diagnosis: stage 3 melanoma. I procrastinated getting it checked out, and I really wish I hadn’t.

Photo by Joe Faraoni_ESPN Images

I WANT TO HELP EDUCATE OTHERS

of my body. It was hilarious to try and plan outfits around the drains. But I did feel better getting back to work. My job is filled with fun, passion, competition and overcoming obstacles. I felt better working than sitting around having cancer. While it has been difficult to be on national television not feeling my best, trying to be positive and focusing on my work has helped me. My coping mechanism was: Watch games, get back to work. That may seem strange, but it helped me not to think about what was happening.

WHAT WAS YOUR IMPRESSION OF THE RESPONSE FROM YOUR CO-WORKERS, FANS, FRIENDS, ETC.? It really took

HOW DID CANCER AND YOUR TREATMENT AFFECT YOUR WORK AND CAREER? Initially, I was very naïve. I had an

me by surprise. I had an outpouring of love and support that just blew me away. Presents, flowers, cards, books,

easy surgery and missed one weekend of work. I didn’t

signed basketballs, treats, visits, calls, emails. I really had

think it was a big deal AT all. Looking back, I really regret this time. I wish I had understood how pervasive and deadly melanoma is and how easily it spreads. If I had known, I would have taken this initial period more seriously. That is something I am very passionate about now, in retrospect.

no idea this is how so many people felt about me, and it was humbling and overwhelming and uplifting. And all of the strangers telling me they are praying for me. It was just so very beautiful and got me through some frightening, discouraging times. I can never possibly thank everyone,

I want to help educate others so they can avoid the same mistakes I felt I made early on. Within a few months, I had another tumor under my arm and another major surgery.

but it is a big reason that it is now my purpose in life to pay forward the kindness and love I received to others who are going through cancer.

Within one year, I had three occurrences, including the devastating news it had spread to my lungs.

I missed a chunk of time for work around the second sur-

WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE OTHERS TO KNOW ABOUT YOUR CANCER JOURNEY? There were several times I didn’t feel

gery. But I was eager to “get back to normal,” and I rushed

well, and I just didn’t know how to ask for help. I would get

my recovery so I could get back to doing what I love. I ended

impatient or cranky and have to apologize. I finally started

up going back to work with drains still sewn in to the side

to realize I have to tell people when I don’t feel well, even

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Photo by Emily Merritt_ESPN Images

GROWNUPS WERE STUNNED AS HE CHARMED THE SERVER INTO GIVING HIM ICE CREAM WITH SPRINKLES AND HOT FUDGE, ON THE HOUSE!

though that makes me feel vulnerable, so that they can have patience with me when I am not at my best. I now tell others to ask for help when you need it. It is hard when we are independent, but letting others help you is a way to make them feel better too. People around you WANT to help, but they may not know how.

The other thing that REALLY helped me was to stop procrastinating and start doing the things I said I wanted to do “one day.” I started doing my “one day” list, and it has opened up my life to joy and adventure and really helped me live a more fulfilling life.

WHAT MAKES COLLEGE FOOTBALL SPECIAL TO YOU? College football is probably my first true love. My dad took me to BYU games when I was about 5 years old, and I just got hooked. I remember crying when the Cougars would lose and following EVERY moment of the great era of BYU quarterbacks and offense in Provo, Utah. I think it was a really beautiful bond between me and my dad that connected us.

When I first started out in TV, it was a bit awkward to just talk into the camera because it is a blank, black

CHILDREN A M A Z E U S E V E R Y D AY

and at Children’s of Alabama, we want to see every child grow up and live to their fullest potential.

That’s why we recruit, train and retain the most inquiring minds, the most skilled hands and the most compassionate hearts in pediatric medicine.

lens. Someone gave me great advice, asking, “Who do you talk to about sports?” I said, “My dad.” They said, “Then when you look into the camera, pretend you are talking to your dad.” I have been talking to him ever since.

1 6 0 0 7 T H AV E N U E S O U T H B I R M I N G H A M , A L 3 5 2 3 3 (205) 638-9100

ChildrensAL.org

everyday

Joy

k on l a W CELEBRATING 18 YEARS TAKING EACH STEP TOGETHER. #WALKOFLIFE2019

walk of9lRiEfCeAP 20 1

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY BIG DREAMZ CREATIVE

THE

purpose

BEHIND THE ANNUAL

is powerful.

The Joy to Life Foundation held its 18th “Walk of Life” in late April and drew thousands to downtown Montgomery for another highly successful 5k walk/run. The annual event gives people a chance to honor a breast cancer survivor or remember someone who lost their fight with the disease, all while raising money for the life-saving work that the Foundation has been doing since it was founded in 2001.

JTL Foundation raises funds to ensure that un- and under-insured women in Alabama have access to mammograms and other screenings to detect breast cancer earlier and therefore, greatly increase their chances of survival. It also raises awareness about breast cancer in general and has become a shining symbol of hope and support for people of all ages and walks of life who are facing and fighting breast cancer.

THE STATS TELL A COMPELLING STORY OF THE GOOD WORK THE FOUNDATION HAS DONE AND CONTINUES TO DO: Since 2007 and as of 2019, the Foundation has directly and indirectly been responsible for ALMOST 100,000 MAMMOGRAMS and screenings, meaning MORE THAN 1,100 WOMEN UNDER THE AGE OF 50

YEARS OLD have been diagnosed and treated because of its work. And CHECK OUT

WHY I WALK

PARTICIPANTS’ STORIES.

since its inception, JTL has raised in EXCESS OF $7 MILLION in the fight against breast cancer.

“I walked for my mom! #breastfriends” -Brandi Crook Madderra

Ev ery step we tak e #LIVEHEREGIVEHERE

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“We are all here to show support, and plus, it is just a ton of fun!”

-John Harmon, Kenny Piker, Ben Lubert, Noah Blondheim

“We both enjoy the exercise and enjoy supporting such a great cause. We know so, so many people affected by breast cancer.”

- Laura Wright (mom) and Kat Wright (daughter)

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“I’ve had family members who were survivors, and now I am a survivor, and I believe everyone should have access to a mammogram.”

“I ran in support and honor of my mom, a breast cancer survivor.

Frankie ran too!”

- Justin Labovitz and dog Frankie

- Charlotte Stringer

“I am a breast cancer survivor, and I was one of the gals on the body art cover for an issue of JTL magazine.

That was so neat, and I’m proud to support JTL.” - Adrienne Griffin (far right) and her friends Nicole Johnson, Michelle Davis, Rhuhaminia Timmons, Kalejah Hutchinson and Laquita Martin

“I didn’t attend the Walk in 2015, a year before I was diagnosed with breast cancer myself. I walk for myself, for my mom, who is also a survivor, and for my mother in law who lost her battle and so many others.”

-Rachel Hamilton

READ ON! TURN THE PAGE FOR MORE

ABOUT TIME EVENTS: for race management.

MORE THAN 2,000 TOTAL WALKERS/RUNNERS THAT PARTICIPATED

t h a nk you

THANKS, Y’ALL! The Joy to Life Foundation

MORE THAN 95 TEAMS: REGISTRATIONS GET YOU TO THE STARTING LINE. YOUR FUNDRAISING GETS US TO THE FINISH LINE.

could never put on the Walk of Life without the help from multiple sponsors and hundreds of volunteers. For the incredible roles they

Pink Out the Park baseball

played in the success of the 2019

game and the breast cancer

Walk, the Foundation would like to

survivor baseball jersey

express extreme appreciation to:

A BIG ROUND OF APPLAUSE TO THE MORE THAN 320 VOLUNTEERS!

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They sing and dance and bring lots of smiles at the Walk each year and love it!

- The Wetumpka Elementary School Clown Troop

“I’m here in support and celebration of several family members who’ve been through breast cancer.”

- Stan Payne

(L to R) Makenna Burton, Georgia Wyatt, Briana Reeves, Jessa Wyatt

“WE ARE EXTREMELY GRATEFUL TO ALL THE SPONSORS. THANKS TO ALL OUR VOLUNTEERS, PARTICIPANTS AND SURVIVORS FOR BELIEVING IN JOY TO LIFE’S MISSION! THE WALK OF LIFE FOR THE 18TH YEAR WAS A

gl orious EVENT!”

- JOY BLONDHEIM, JTL FOUNDATION C0-FOUNDER

MANY

#1 TE AM

thanks

FOR THE 2019 WALK OF LIFE SURVIVOR TENT SPONSOR:

Walking together for 6 years!

Team MONTGOMERY ANTIOCH MATRONS raised more than $3,200.

MONTGOMERY COCA-COLA, OUR FRIENDS AT BUFFALO ROCK AND ALWAYS MONEY:

MY STARKE:

for keeping folks hydrated

for SPREAD THE JOY food trucks

with water donations.

THE CITY OF MONTGOMERY: Christina Golden with Special Events, Montgomery Police Department LT. Ronald Dorsey and Montgomery Fire-Rescue Chief Ronnie Bozeman

RHEEM for providing the lead car and SOUTHEASTERN BATTERY SOURCE for golfcarts.

WE OUR VOLUNTEERS!

Just a few of our helping hands.

MEDIA SPONSORS: ALABAMA NEWS.NET CUMMULUS / WSFA 12 NEWS / LAMAR BELL / LINK

“We’re here today walking in memory of my grandmother.”

-Austin Coombs and Carmella Coombs

MASHBURN OUTDOOR

real

FIRST-HAND ADVICE AND INSIGHT TO HELP CAREGIVERS COPE

A DISCUSSION WITH

DAVID BARRANCO When David Barranco, owner of a favorite Montgomery eatery, was diagnosed with breast cancer, his first feelings were fearful. But now he’s able to inject a little humor into his story. He shares how hope and a supportive cancer community helped him through a trying time.

SHARE A LITTLE ABOUT HOW YOU FOUND OUT YOU HAD BREAST CANCER. A man with breast cancer? Come on! Thanks be to God that the peasize lump in my right breast was painful and just would not go away.

My wife, Jeanne, insisted — no, demanded — I have it checked out.

Thankfully, she was relentless!

At my first mammogram, I struggled to answer some questions like “When did menopause begin?” One week after that mammogram, I had a mastectomy. A lot of new words and terms that were meaningless a week earlier became very meaningful: “clean margins, stage 1 invasive ductile carcinoma, no lymph nodes involved and estrogen positive.” It was caught very early, and early detection without a doubt saved me.

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o

Photography by Big Dreamz Creative

And Dr. Stephen Davidson and the team at Montgomery Cancer Center, who were always positive, upbeat and caring, made the 20 weeks of chemotherapy much more tolerable.

HEAR FROM SURVIVORS, COMPANIONS AND CAREGIVERS IN OUR

Real Life SECTION.

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST THOUGHT WHEN YOU HEARD THE DIAGNOSIS?

BAD NEWS TRAVELS FAST,

When you hear the words, “You’ve got cancer,” that moment is forever frozen in time. Fear of the unknown and of thoughts like “How much cancer is there?” surfaced first. Bad news travels fast, but that was okay because the prayer support also happened fast. And I can pinpoint the hour it kicked in. There’s no way I could have gotten through it all without my faith, family, church, friends and my Chappy’s Deli family.

BUT THAT WAS OKAY BECAUSE THE PRAYER SUPPORT ALSO HAPPENED FAST. AND I CAN PINPOINT THE HOUR IT KICKED IN. THERE’S NO WAY I COULD HAVE GOTTEN THROUGH IT ALL

THROUGH THE TREATMENT PROCESS AND AFTER, WHAT DID YOU WANT AND NEED FROM YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY?

WITHOUT MY FAITH, FAMILY,

I have a pretty big family, and they rallied and surrounded me with love and prayer. It was just what I needed. No doubt the prayer support got me through it, along with free meals most every night!

CHAPPY’S DELI FAMILY.

CHURCH, FRIENDS AND MY

WHAT ONE THING THAT YOU DID FOR YOURSELF MOST HELPED YOU COPE? WHAT FORMS OF HELP AND SUPPORT REALLY STOOD OUT? The calls, the cards, the visits, the hugs, the tears, the offers of prayers. It all mattered. Lady friends with breast cancer stopping by to “talk shop.” I got a special call from a friend with cancer: He was told get his affairs in order because he had a couple of months to live. He told me that he loved me and was praying for me. But the main purpose of his call was to offer hope. He was given two months to live, more than 20 years ago. Another good friend gave me this counsel: “Find a bigger problem.” I discovered that there is a major league bond between every cancer patient. My prayer list quickly grew with those I met in treatment.

“

Prayer was a major help, along with work and exercise. There is always a silver lining. It’s harder to see on the rough days, but it’s there.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE OTHER CAREGIVERS/SPOUSES/ PARENTS/FRIENDS, ETC., ON HOW TO APPROACH AND HELP THEIR LOVED ONE GOING THROUGH CANCER TREATMENT? Pray, hope and don’t worry! Stay positive and upbeat. Always have a “can-do attitude.” And pray for them and with them. That goes without saying.

T H E R E I S A L W A Y S A S I L V E R L I N I N G .” - D A V I D B A R R A N C O

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goods

great

PRODUCTS, PLACES & THINGS WE LOVE

A SPOT TO

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BILLY BUDDIES You’re not likely to encounter huge crowds while visiting Jackson Lake Island (yay!), but you won’t be alone either. A herd of friendly goats calls the spot home and can usually be found frolicking around the movie set. Go say hello and give them some strokes and scratches.

PEACEFUL, EASY FEELINGS The Town of Spectre’s name may sound kinda spooky, but there’s nothing to be afraid of at this lovely little dot of land popping up through the Alabama River outside Millbrook. In fact, that’s not even the location’s real name. Spectre is a fictional place, created for the 2002 movie “Big Fish” filmed in the River Region. It’s actually called Jackson Lake Island, and while it is privately owned, it’s open to the public to enjoy for a small fee. Fish the Alabama River from the gently sloping banks. Stroll under old-growth oaks dripping with Spanish moss. Paddle a canoe around the cypress trees. Explore the deteriorating but still charming movie set that includes the facades of multiple houses flanking a pathway to a country-style church. Pet and play with the resident goats. Whatever activity you’re interested in, don’t miss the chance to relax and wile away a warm summer day at this special spot.

Find details on the site’s facebook page, Images by Nancy Fields/Big Dreamz Creative

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goods

great

PRODUCTS, PLACES & THINGS WE LOVE

NATURE KNOWS BEST FarmHouse Fresh bath and body products live up to their name, with extracts from organic fruits, veggies and herbs like cucumbers, kale, basil and toma-

HOME STYLE

toes at the top of their ingredient lists.

All of the produce used comes from the company’s own farm or other American

Josh Thomas has always enjoyed working with his hands and

farms, and the vitamins taken from them

making new things. He took up furniture-building as a hobby, which

nourish the skin naturally. Plus, a portion

led him into leather-working when he wanted to add straps to some

of proceeds from every purchase goes

wooden fly-rod cases he’d made. He enjoyed that aspect so much,

to fund the company’s commitment to

he kept learning more and founded Bulox Leather in late 2018. He

rescue and care for neglected and abused

explained the meaning behind the name. “Bulox is a combination

farm animals. The Spa at the Renais-

of Bullock and Wilcox Counties in Alabama. My mother is from

sance Hotel in Montgomery started using

Camden in Wilcox County and many relatives still live in the area,”

FarmHouse Fresh products in its treat-

he said. “My father is from Fitzpatrick in Bullock County, and that

ments in 2018, and spa manager Robyn

is where I grew up and is where my shop is now located. I thought it

Peacock has fallen in love. “They have

only fitting that I pay tribute to the people and places that have been

such a wide range of benefits for skin, and

important in my life and largely made me who I am today.” Josh is

they smell so amazing,” she said. “And be-

now turning out sunglass cases, belts, bags and more that are func-

cause they’re ‘farm-based,’ the offerings

tional and durable and equally good-looking and enjoying every min-

change with the seasons, just like things

ute of it. “From sourcing the leather, designing the item, creating it,

growing on a farm do. Plus, they help an-

to finally putting on the finishing touches, I love every step involved.

imals.” Peacock’s favorite “flavor” is the

b u l ox l ea t her. c o m

Muscadine Moonshine scrub. “This body polish leaves skin glistening,” she said.

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Where medicine meets beauty.

Call for an appontment today 334-213-0700 Dr. Kathy Lindsey & Dr. Mark Lindsey

Spa Treatments

Medical Treatments Botox & Fillers by Certified Physicians Exilis Skin Tightening / Fat Reduction Laser Hair Removal Leg Vein Treatment IPL/BBL Skin Rejuvenation for Dark Spots Dermasweep Microdermabrasion Eclipse Microneedling

Growth Factor Facials Signature Facials Anti-Aging Treatments Chemical Peels Dermaplaning Lash & Brow Tinting Waxing

Beauty Products ColoreScience & Glo Minerals Latisse PCA Regenecia Revision SkinMedica Elta MD SkinCeuticals

370 St. Lukes Drive, Montgomery AL 36117 laserwellnessmedspa.com | info@laserwellnessmedspa.com 35

A PUBLICATION OF THE JOY TO LIFE FOUNDATION

0 Turn back

time with these

tips, techniques

and services that will keep you looking

and feeling younger.

Ways to Stay Y outhful

Here are a few of our favorite tips, products and services that will help you feel and look younger.

And the best part? Many are available locally.

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For centuries, explorers searched the

world over for the fabled fountain of youth.

The water that flowed from this spring

was said to give anyone who drank it the miraculous gift of eternal agelessness.

Today, we know these stories were nothing but myth, and yet every one of us is still

hoping and looking for ways to stop aging, roll back the clock and stop time in its tracks. There may be no magic elixir to do the trick, but there are multiple things we can do that are both preventative and restorative.

0

3 KEEP A LIGHT TOUCH Sometimes less is more, and when it comes to makeup for mature ladies, this adage is 100-percent accurate.

Avoid a thick line of dark liner under your eyes; watch out for the too-dark lip liner, and go a bit softer with all of your colors, including lipstick.

1

2

PROTECT YOUR ASSETS

SWEAT THE SMALL STUFF

Smoothing fine lines and keeping deeper wrinkles at

Little things can make a big impact. The needles used

bay is a surefire way to achieve a more youthful ap-

in microneedling offered at Aesthetica Montgomery

pearance, and according to the experts at Bella, a local

may be small, but they are mighty. By creating tiny

boutique and spa, there are two gold standards when it

punctures on the surface of your skin, microneedling

comes to anti-aging products. One is retinoid or retinol

stimulates the formation of elastin and collagen, two

products and the other is an antioxidant from one of

essential elements of youthful complexions. In fact,

Bella’s most popular product lines, SkinCeuticals. Both

most women lose both elastin and collagen at the rate

CE Ferulic and Phloretin CF are built on the nearly 40

of 1 percent per year after turning 21. But you can get

years of research. SkinCeuticals’ antioxidants provide

both back with this process. And more is definitely

advanced environmental protection from UV rays,

better since all that newly generated collagen and

pollution and lifestyle factors. They are also clinical-

elastin fill in wrinkles and can lessen the appearance

ly shown to brighten your complexion, improve the

of scars. Plus, microneedling is fast and easy; most

appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and reverse a loss of

sessions take 20 minutes. Or less.

firmness. On Instagram: @bella-montgomery_

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6 5

4

STAY FIT & FLEXIBLE Maintaining your overall

BECOME A NEW CREATION

fitness (mind and body) con-

Life leaves its marks on us;

tributes to looking and feeling

in fact, it leaves all kinds of

younger, and Pilates can help

evidence all over our faces. But

you with both by aiding you in

fear not. Much of this “proof

achieving increased strength,

of life” can be minimized or

improved posture, better

even erased with miracles like

balance, core stability and

Laser Genesis at River Region

reduced stress. In Montgom-

Dermatology & Laser. This

ery, the multiple locations of

non-invasive treatment re-

Club Pilates offer a wide range

stores a youthful skin tone and

of classes and class times.

texture by helping with fine

And while you can do Pilates

lines and wrinkles, reducing

on your own, participating in

the appearance of scars, large

classes ensures you get the

pores and the redness from

most out of your workout and

rosacea and even combat-

that you’re performing each

ting active acne. The process

move correctly and safely. The

encourages your body’s natural

instructors at Club Pilates have

healing process to kick in and

a minimum of 500 hours of

has proven extremely effective

comprehensive training.

without any bothersome side

clubpilates.com/Zelda

effects and zero downtime.

KEEP YOUR CROWN SHINING As we celebrate more and more birthdays, our locks can show our age just as much as our skin. To keep your hair healthy, drink plenty of water, protect it from the sun, be careful with too much heat from blow dryers and straighteners and make sure you’re using a good conditioner. Also pay attention to the way you wear your hair. Don’t fall into the trap of believing that once you’re 50, your hair has to be super short. How you wear your hair doesn’t have to be driven only by your age. Talk with your hairstylist to find the cut and style that suits your face shape, not some number. Remember that some styles are almost universally flattering: shoulder-length cuts and longer side-swept bangs. And when it comes to hair color, avoid

rrdermatologylaser.com

really dark and too-bleached blonde.

ADD EMPHASIS

7

If your eyebrows have lightened or thinned so much that they’re no longer providing that nice “frame” for your eyes, you can always fill them in with a pencil (don’t go too heavy!). But if you’re busy, you’ll probably tire of the time this adds to your routine, and if you’re active, you’ll also get tired of your eyebrows “disappearing” when you’re sweating or swimming. Instead, consider microblading to fake fuller eyebrows that look completely natural. Microblading is essentially a semi-permanent tattoo of color under your existing eyebrow hairs. But thanks to the finetipped, pen-like tool used, the pigment goes on in strokes that resemble real hairs instead of a solid stripe. And the artists who do this are careful to mimic your natural eyebrow architecture, the shape that works best with your face.

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A PUBLICATION OF THE JOY TO LIFE FOUNDATION

9 STAY

HYDRATED

Putting your best face forward starts with great skin, and youthful skin is hydrated skin.

To undo the signs of aging and hold onto your glow, try a moisture-rich facial like the HydraFacial offered at The Spa at Montgomery Renaissance.

This non-invasive treatment

8

provides instant results for all

Got product fatigue?

skin types with no downtime.

By removing dead skin cells and extracting impurities, while simultaneously delivering cleansing, hydrating and moisturizing serums into your

GET TONED & TIGHTENED

skin, it reduces the appearance

Stubborn fat deposits and loose,

of fine lines, wrinkles and hy-

saggy skin are two tell-tale

perpigmentation. Plus, it feels

signs of advanced age, but at

good. The treatment is sooth-

Laser Wellness, you can say

ing, refreshing, non-irritating

goodbye to both by signing up

and immediately effective. Got

for Exilis Elite. This treatment

sensitive skin? Don’t worry.

is a non-surgical, non-invasive

According to the experts at

procedure that uses a com-

The Spa, any and every skin

bination of monopolar radio

type can easily tolerate this

frequency energy, ultrasound

treatment. And the serums

and skin cooling to target both

and products used can even

deep tissue and the outer layers

be customized to address your

of your skin. It stimulates the

skin’s unique issues and needs.

breakdown of fat cells and also

spaatmontgomery.com

brings about collagen remodeling to tighten skin as well as

10

DON’T FORGET DOWNTOWN

No part of our body is immune to the aging process, and after menopause, as many as 50 percent of women experience unwanted changes to their vaginal health. It can be a tricky topic to tackle, since it’s not the easiest subject to talk about, but the doctors at OBGYN Associates of Montgomery understand and are ready to hear your concerns and offer a new solution, MonaLisa Touch. This innovative therapy delivers laser energy to the vaginal wall to stimulate a healing response by generating new collagen, elastin and vascularization.

The result is an improvement in comfort and sexual satisfaction. It’s an in-office procedure that doesn’t require anesthesia and produces only minimal size effects. Since it launched in 2012, this treatment has helped thousands of women, and many have called MonaLisa Touch “life changing.” It’s proven extremely beneficial for

contour the face, neck and body.

women (like many breast-can-

The result is a slimmer, firmer

cer survivors) for whom hor-

and younger-looking you.

mone therapy is not possible.

laserwellnessmedspa.com

obgynassociates.com

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A PUBLICATION OF THE JOY TO LIFE FOUNDATION

PROS

* LOCA

S*

W

KNO TO

Robyn Peacock, Director Of Spa Operations

XPERT LE

Local experts in

Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa at the Convention Center

areas from health to home design.

Specialty: Robyn leads a professional team that is the

Get to know some

epitome of Southern hospitality. With our range of massage,

local pros.

facials, nail & body treatments, you’ll be able to re-energize

Dr. Kathy Lindsey Laser Wellness Med Spa Specialty: Board certified physician offering medical skincare treatments and medical grade products that allow patients to achieve and maintain great skincare results.

Contact: laserwellnessmedspa.com

with a rooftop view.

Contact: 334-481-5210

Melanie Williams, Aesthetician

Andrew Thrash, General Manager

Aesthetica Montgomery Medspa

Montgomery Antiques & Interiors

Specialty: “The face is really her

Specialty: Helping clients

territory. Using top shelf medical

learn how to mix a fine antique

grade cosmeceuticals, she

piece of furniture into today’s

performs the most gentle facials

contemporary design. It only

and Chemical Peels, Microderm-

takes one piece to add warmth

abrasion and Microneedling.

and character to any space.

Contact:

Contact:

aestheticamontgomery.com

MGMantiques.com 42

A PUBLICATION OF THE JOY TO LIFE FOUNDATION

Brianna Skelton, Manager, Makeup Artist & IPL/Laser Technician Bella Specialty: With makeup applications, skincare consultations and spa services, Brianna helps clients look and feel their best. She’s got an eye for the latest trends but knows how to bring out classic beauty too.

Instagram: @bellamontgomery_

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KEEPING CO N N E TE D Mobility and motion are necessities in our daily lives.

And our ability to stand and walk, to grasp objects and generally move our bodies — not to mention run, dance or hold and squeeze another’s hand — is all dependent on joints. Joints are where two or more bones come together; they take the many pieces of our musculoskeletal system and link them into a functional whole.

Having healthy joints means we can do all of the above (and so much more) and do it well. But our joints can be stressed and damaged, whether it’s due to injury or a disease (like one of the many forms of arthritis). And as we age, like everything else in our bodies, our joints be-

BY J E N N I F E R S T E WA R T K O R N E G AY

gin to wear down and wear out. Still, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, and there are things you can do to prevent joint damage and improve your joint health, even if you already suffer from arthritis.

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A PUBLICATION OF THE JOY TO LIFE FOUNDATION

TIPS FOR HE A LTH Y JOINTS

02.

OUR JOINTS KEEP OUR BONES CONNECTED, AND BY KEEPING Y O U R J O I N T S H E A LT H Y, Y O U C A N STAY BE T TER CONNECTED TO YOUR L I F E A N D A L L T H AT Y O U D O I N I T.

KEEP GOING: Staying physically active is essential to healthy joints, both now and for your future. In any physical activity, use the proper safety gear and the proper techniques to avoid joint injuries.

01.

DROP THE BAGGAGE: Maintaining a healthy weight is one

03.

of the best things you can do for your

MAKE THE RIGHT MOVES:

joints. The burden of extra weight puts unnecessary strain on your joints. Some studies have shown that

Keeping generally active is good, but

for every excess pound shed, the load-

focusing on specific forms of exercise

ing force on your knee joints when

that can benefit your joints is just

walking is reduced by four times.

as crucial. Low-impact exercise is best since it won’t stress your joints.

NEED A NUDGE?

Put technology in its place, and to

Some great low-impact workouts

good use, with a simple app to track

are swimming or water aerobics and

calories or daily activity.

biking or walking. Exercises that strengthen your muscles (especially

TRY THESE:

those around major joints) are also

MyFitnessPal / Comprehensive diet

important. Keeping these muscles

and activity tracking app.

strong enables them to do the work

LoseIt / This calorie-counting app

that they should. Range-of-motion exercises that extend and rotate your

includes most major food brands.

joints will lead to increased flexibility

FitBit / A personal device for tracking

and can also reduce pain in those

daily fitness and movement goals.

already dealing with joint damage.

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WHAT ARE JOINTS? Joints are where two or more bones come together; they take the many pieces of our musculoskeletal system and link them into a functional whole.

SPEAK UP

OFFENDER

04.

D O N ’ T O V E R D O I T: While there are multiple conditions that can cause

Always pay attention to your body’s signals. Any activity that

joint pain and stiffness, arthritis

puts too much pressure on any

is one of the most common.

joint should be avoided, especially

And the two most common kinds

if it hurts. Pain means stop. And

of arthritis are Osteoarthritis,

keep your activity level in balance.

which is a disease that causes the

Make sure you get plenty of rest and good, restorative sleep.

breakdown of joints, and Rheumatoid arthritis, which causes inflammation in the joints.

05.

E AT R I G H T: A diet that focuses on anti-inflammatory foods will help you maintain healthy joints and has helped many already suffering from arthritis reduce stiffness and pain. Vitamin D and calcium are key nutrients for joint health. While there’s not a lot of current scientific evidence to show how much benefit they provide, supplements like glucosamine are widely used, and some people claim they can ease osteoarthritis pain.

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A PUBLICATION OF THE JOY TO LIFE FOUNDATION

• If you can’t determine the cause of your pain.

• If you notice swelling in your joints.

• If your joints are hot to the touch or if you notice skin redness at your joints.

• If the pain is disrupting your daily activities.

CO M M O N

A LL OF US SUFFER FROM ACHES A ND SORENES S SOME TIMES, BUT THERE A RE INS TA NCES TH AT SHOULD SEND YOU TO YOUR DOC TOR.

If anyone in your family has any form of arthritis, let your doctor know, as some forms are genetic.

2019

time to chill.

JUNE/JULY/AUG

music festivals

ALEXANDER CITY

KEEP C O OL

+

Alexander City Jazz Festival June 14-15

AUBURN

alexcityjazzfest.com

Heart of Waverly BBQ & Show

For 28 years, this weekend has been a draw to music fans from all over the nation to the Alexander City’s charming

July 13 standarddeluxe.com

downtown and the shores of shimmering Lake Martin. This year’s event features another line-up of stellar acts including

Bring your folding chairs, friends and family and fill up on

Willie Sugarcapps, Nikki and The Phantom Callers, Empire

some delicious ‘cue and rockin’ live music at this annual

Strikes Bass and more. Plus, it’s free.

outdoor event in the charming little town of Waverly. The band line-up includes Channing Wilson, Adam Hood, Tony Brook and more.

BIRMINGHAM Thunder on Mountain

FLORENCE

July 4

W.C. Handy Music Festival

visitvulcan.com

July 19-28

For decades, this Fourth of July fireworks celebration has

wchandymusicfestival.org

NEVER BEEN?

CHECK IT OUT

IN 2019

been hailed as one of the largest and most extravagant Independence Day traditions in the state of Alabama, and this

This annual series of events is designed to preserve,

year will be no exception. On July 4 at 9 p.m., the event will

promote and present the music of the “Shoals” and

once again illuminate the skies above Birmingham’s beloved

to honor the “Father of the Blues,” W.C. Handy, a Florence

iron man, Vulcan. Free to the public, the show will feature

native. Hundreds of events throughout the area that are

a variety of firework shells that will brighten the sky with

held over 10 days include a 5k, car shows, food and plenty

new colors and patterns. The show will be choreographed to

of great music.

a soundtrack mix of patriotic favorites and popular musical performances.

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more great ideas! it's summa time!

FOR THE FOOD-LOVERS:

JOIN US! GET REMINDERS OF THESE AND OTHER GREAT ALABAMA EVENTS IN OUR GO&DO EMAIL NEWSLETTER. SIGN UP TO GET IT AT JOYTOLIFEMAGAZINE.ORG

CLANTON Chilton County Peach Festival June 22-29 chiltonchamberonline.com Celebrate this iconic Southern fruit with pageants, a Peach Run, art exhibits, barbecue, parades, music

Y D E L IC S E R IO U S L

and plenty of ripe, sweet peaches at this event that is peachy keen.

IO U S F O O

D & F UN

BURKVILLE

RUSSELLVILLE

Okra Festival

Franklin County Watermelon Festival

August 31 334-730-5548

August 16-17 franklincountychamber.org

try some thin’ new

This festival started as a small event celebrating the only crop that survived

Enjoy a seed-spitting, rip-roaring,

an unusually hot summer in 2000.

super sweet and sticky good time with

More than a decade later, it is one of

contests for the largest, best-tasting

the highlights of the summer season,

and best-dressed watermelons

featuring local food (including okra!),

at this annual FREE festival that’s

music and more.

fun for the whole family.

PINK YOUR

RIDE JOIN OUR FIGHT

y

49

A PUBLICATION OF THE JOY TO LIFE FOUNDATION

JOYTOLIFE.ORG

Y O U R H E A LT H OUR MISSION

SOME OF OUR

BIGGEST MOMENTS HAPPEN IN THE PRESENCE OF OUR

SMALLEST PATIENTS. With every new patient, our mission of providing comfort, love and supportive care starts all over again. With a faith-based approach, our physicians, nurses, staff and volunteers treat our patients with kindness and compassion—because being cared about is as important as being cared for.

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR COMPASSIONATE CARE AT

BAPTISTFIRST.ORG