Social Eastern Shore | October 2022

SOCIAL

My love for science and service combined with a passion for women’s health led me to a career in oncology where I help empower my patients to make decisions about their breast cancer care.

More than that, I understand how women think and use techniques patients will value - like oncoplastic techniques for better aesthetic results and nerve blocks to better control pain during and after a mastectomy. See our passion, at the USA Health Mitchell Cancer Institute (MCI), first hand as we transform breast cancer care along the Gulf Coast.

Breast Cancer Differently. At The Region’s Only Academic Cancer Research Center.

Rachel L. Hunter, MD Breast Surgical Oncologist

In this issue, we share the stories of some brave and resilient women who share their experiences with the dreaded diagnosis of cancer. Their stories are not only inspirational, but they serve to help others. You will hear how her journey with cancer made Mary Brabner a stronger leader for the city she loves. In Teacher Feature, Cissy Barre, shares how cancer showed her how much she is supported by her school family at Bayshore Christian School. We bring you our first destination wedding, a beautiful celebration of the union of Sheldon Mills and William Morrissette in Beaver Creek, Colorado.

We hope you enjoy all of our editorial features, and the great events we were honored to capture including Berry Strong Foundation Black Tie Bingo and the 2022 Campaign Kick Off Luncheon for United Way of Baldwin County.

We are humbled by the support that has been shown to SOCIAL Eastern Shore, and we are excited to continue to partner with the community to bring you all things social.

SOCIAL

MELINDA MCGHEE

Editor-In-Chief, Social Eastern Shore

GET SOCIAL WITH

On the Cover: Dena Pittman, Cindy Zebryk, Amy Cuny and Jennifer Neto

PUBLISHER

David Renfro

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Melinda McGhee

COPY EDITOR

Lana Cagle

SALES

David Renfro | 731.499.1414 Melinda McGhee | 251.767.9429

PHOTOGRAPHY

Ruili Cai Andrew Crumpton

NOLA Real Estate Marketing Wedding Photography by Melissa Brielle

STAFF WRITER

Liesel Schmidt

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Kayla Bertucci, Casey Varnado

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Kim Mesman & Chris Shenk

SOCIAL MEDIA

Jen Meadows

FLIP. CLICK. TAP.

SOCIALSOCIALSOCIAL

POWER DYNAMIC C D ouples uos AND

Get to know some of the Eastern Shore's Power Couples & Dynamic Duos. Learn more about how they are making it work and balancing it all, while maintaining successful local businesses.

Coming Soon

COMMUNITY leader

By Liesel Schmidt

Doing what’s best for a city’s interest comes from a place of selflessness, of respect and integrity. For Mary Brabner, it also came from a love for her city and a desire to see it thrive, both now and in the future. Since 2000, she has been a part of that, working first with the planning commission and then elected to the Spanish Fort city council in 2004, representing District 5. “I was appointed to the planning commission by Mayor Greg Kuhlmann, as I expressed an interest in our growing city and wanted to be a part of the planning for Spanish Fort’s future,” explains Brabner, who spends her days as a mortgage loan officer, working with homebuyers to get the mortgage that best suits their current and long-term financial needs. “After being on the planning commission, I saw changes that I wasn’t completely comfortable with and felt that the council needed to view things from the eyes of a younger demographic. Today, I am conscious to listen to citizens from all demographics to make sure we provide services and activities for people of all ages.”

In the 18 years she’s been on the city council for District 5, Brabner has proven to be an asset to the city—a fact to which her subsequent re-elections testifies. “I believe I have been re-elected because I speak up when I don’t agree with an item up for vote,” she observes. “I try

very hard to be the voice of District 5, which is currently an older demographic, while also lending an ear to the younger demographic throughout the rest of the city. Several years back, I was very vocal against the city spending $800,000 for AstroTurf at the high school, and I made many enemies among the younger demographic but was applauded by the older demographic that didn’t think the city should be paying for that luxury at the high school. It may not have been a popular stance for me to take, but it was what I saw in the best interest of the city.”

"I BELIEVE I HAVE BEEN RE-ELECTED

BECAUSE I SPEAK UP WHEN I DON'T AGREE WITH AN ITEM UP FOR VOTE."

MaryBrabner

Brabner has also been part of some major—and majorly necessary—changes as well as future plans for initiatives that will greatly impact the city. “District 5 is the west side of Spanish Main, Patrician Dr and the causeway, and I’m excited to say that we have a causeway master plan that will include a park and fishing area at the western most part of the city, on the south side of the causeway,” says the 30-year resident of Spanish Fort. “Construction of this new park will begin in the near future, and I believe it will be extremely beneficial.”

As a woman on the largely male city council, Brabner naturally faces some challenges. “Our council gets along very well, but men and women have different priorities on where to spend money and how to approach a project,” she notes. “Still, I speak up so that my opinion is heard—even if I don’t prevail on the issue.”

The Berry Strong Foundation held their 4th Annual Black Tie Bingo Fundraising Gala at the Historic Malbis Nursery in Daphne. This fun social event featured food, drinks, live music, a silent auction and free bingo games and prizes. All proceeds from this event benefit childhood cancer research.

Laina and Nick Dees

Sarah Coxwell and Anne Davis

Chloe Chaffin and Trent Salac

Scott and Anne Reier

Mark and Jennifer Langner

Courtney Miernicki, Hayley Thompson, Lane McGough, Stephanie Evans, Kiersten Gross, Brittany Luckie, and Nancy Harshberger

Chasity Taylor and Amy Howell

Kaylee Komyati and Hannah Howell

Kate and Matt McCoy

Crysti and Elere Varden

Photos by Ruili Cai

Really

Callie Myers, Annaleigh Ash, and Caroline Myers

Brandon Barnhill, Lisa Barnhill, Shae Ondracka, and Jeffrey Ondracka

Candy Hammock, Stephanie Christensen, and Kym Krebs

Jimmy Burgin, Kenya Burgin, Laina Dees, and Nick Dees

Shannon and Corinne Stanton

Kristen Box and Robb Harrison

Lauren Berry and James Mack

Really

Kelly Kommyati, Kaylee Komyati, and Janet Moore

Kate Nobles, Haley Rainey, Addeline Wison, and Keri Medlock

Lauren Berry, Sophie Hodge, and Whitley Bailey

James Hattenstien, Will Lyles, and Clay Walden

Erica Thistlethwaite and Gina FlowersMike and Sarapage Bauguss

Michelle and Kevin Harrison

-

TEACHER FEATURE BAYSHORE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

BY LIESEL SCHMIDT

fter a summer away from school, Cissy Barre was excited to meet her students for the 2020/2021 school year—but a cancer diagnosis earlier in June of 2020 resulted in a year of treatment that started the day after school began. After a great deal of anticipation and a hard road over that year, she went back to school and is now celebrating both remission and a full decade of teaching at Bayshore Christian School.

Barre’s career began when her daughter was in fifth grade, first working as a sub and then taking on a part-time position in kindergarten. Eventually, she became a full-time member of

the faculty. “Looking back, I think I was just following the plan God had for me all along,” says Barre, who is in her second year of teaching third grade. “The biggest reward of teaching is the joy and love I experience with my students every day. I love to watch them learn and grow, and I continue to be thankful to my Bayshore community for taking care of me during my recovery from cancer.”

To her students, she offers this advice: “Be lifelong learners. God’s Word and His creation are filled with never-ending wonders, so explore them both and be open to what He has to show you!”

The Jennifer Claire Moore Foundation held its annual rodeo which included eight rodeo events, free children’s activities, and a hometown heroes night, during which the military and first responders were admitted for free. The foundation partners with 50 area schools to provide The Peer Helpers Program which builds knowledge, resiliency, and coping skills to help them be successful for a lifetime.

Maggie Puckett, Kaitlyn Kulakowski, Claritza Martinez, Carly Byrd, and Madison Grace Keith Lynn, Michelle Lynn, Jacob Rockhold, and Victoria Rockhold

Carla and Tommy Milstid

Andy Moates and Justin Sketoe

Randall, Shelby, Aveline, and Theresa Merchant

Gabriella Notarangelo, Michael James, Chris James, Maci Dienes, Savannah Bullock, Haley White, and Robbie Long

Kim Tatum Kelly, Sheriff Huey “Hoss” Mack, and Judge Carmen Bosch

Wes, Kristin, and Harper Alberts

Julie Bates Malgaglio, Megan Melvin, Emily Emerson, Medeline Crawley, and Sophia Scoville

Nolan Edwards, Henry Edwards, Ari Barr, Emily Davis, and Emmaleigh Davis

Photos by Andrew Crumpton

Dr. Krista HarrellDr. Krista Harrell

By Liesel Schmidt

Over the past two years, life for Dr. Krista Harrell has been anything but simple. In the midst of COVID, she was diagnosed in 2020 with cervical, thoracic and lumbar herniations, which required a cervical spinal fusion surgery, as well as postural tachycardia syndrome with orthostatic hypotension (POTS). Then, 2021 brought hypermobility EDS, fibromyalgia, andro genic alopecia, bilateral tinnitus, chronic fatigue, post COVID syndrome, occipital neuralgia and finally, the possibility of multiple sclerosis—which will require monitoring for the next four years with a brain MRI every December.

With so many challenges to face on a daily basis, Harrell could easily withdraw from life—but she’s determined to do the opposite. “It’s important to focus on cultivating resilience,” says Harrell, who serves as the Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs at the University of South

Alabama. “I also focus on my mindset and how I frame my situation without denial, on the gratitude I have for the love shared with me and the friends and family who went with me to endless doctors appts and procedures to advocate for me. I also focus on empathy and understanding the experiences of others, nurturing kindness for myself, and acceptance of my daily life. I have to balance giving into the moment without giving up, and while I have to accept that some days might be difficult, accepting does not mean surrendering. It’s moving through to move forward.”

By Liesel Schmidt

FAs advanced as modern medicine might be, sometimes a diagnosis can be incredibly elusive—as was the case with Kelly Jones. “I started having problems when I was 28 years old and was sick for 15 years before anyone knew what was wrong,” says Jones, who was eventually diagnosed with chronic pancreatitis. “In 2019, my family and I had to move to Minneapolis, Minnesota, where I had a total pancreatectomy/auto islet transplant. It was a 14-hour surgery involving the removal of the pancreas and spleen as well as transplanting the islet cells into the liver. I had to live at the hospital for a few months with a feeding tube. It’s a procedure that has only been completed on a small number of patients, and it was a miracle for me. I’m now able to function normally and work with no pain, and I am so grateful for a second chance at life.”

As a pediatric dentist, Jones needs to have a clear head to work—and being free of the

pain that has been part of her life for so long has been incredible for her. “Without my faith in Christ and support from family and friends, I do not know how I would have made it,” says Jones, who now participates in research studies at the University of Minnesota to further help patients with her condition and advance the successes of surgery. “I’ve also learned the importance of self-advocacy. I had to continue to fight even when others in the medical profession told me there was nothing wrong. I was told that it was so many other things than what it actually was. But I knew my body and knew something was wrong, so I never gave up hope.”

Dr. Kelly JonesDr. Kelly Jones

Photo credit: Stevye Murray Hair & Makeup: Elisabeth Wells

Photo credit: Andrew Crumpton

A

Bras Bras Cause Cause

BY LIESEL SCHMIDT

With all their charms and all their headaches, bras have long been the object of a love/hate relationship for women—though, as women, we consider them inextricably tied to our sense of femininity, symbols of our womanhood. So when that part of us is lost to breast cancer, we feel somehow less feminine, less womanly. It is in the hope that no woman facing this illness, or recovering from it, will ever feel alone in their experience or their fight that organizations like Bras for a Cause Gulf Coast were created. “We want individuals to be able to focus on getting better and fighting this disease and not have the burden and stress of worrying about how they are going to pay for gas to get to treatment or how they will pay their mortgage or rent after having to take so much time off from work,” explains marketing coordinator Michelle Murill. “Supporting one another in times of need is one of the things that makes our Gulf Coast community a beautiful place to live, and Bras for a Cause Gulf Coast is proud to be a part of such an amazing area where so many people are honored to help their neighbor. These organizations bring people together, raise people up and improve the quality of life, not only for the patient, but for the sponsors and volunteers whose lives they touch, as well. We can face this together.”

With their tagline of “Together, we can make a difference,” Bras for a Cause Gulf Coast does, indeed come together, holding an annual gala where all that togetherness results in some very big benefits for the organization’s mission. “Since our very first gala in 2014, Bras for a Cause Gulf Coast has raised over $205,000 to benefit local cancer patients. Our last event was sold out and featured over 77 sponsors and more than 30 volunteers and five board members,” Murill notes, explaining that the organization has shifted its focus from strictly breast cancer to cancer of all types. “The funds we raise help local cancer patients who are either going through treatment or are survivors in need of assistance with their everyday living expenses because of the toll and financial burden associated with treatment.”

What happens at this event—and where the organization gets its name—is the very thing that makes it unique. “We auction off bras, and the bras that are auctioned off are made by local volunteers and artists,” says Murill. “They’re incredible—usually very elaborate and many have a theme, which makes it all the more fun. A lot of the higher-level sponsors will make bras, as well, and have their own model. They’ll even theme the bras after something to do with their business. For example, Southern View Media will make a bra that has seahorses and pelicans, and an accountant might make a bra with money or dollar signs incorporated into the design. The bras are actual works of art that people spend hours creating and designing, so there is a lot of effort and care that goes into everything.”

This year’s event takes place on October 26, 2022, at The Locale in Mobile.

Doors for VIP guests open at 5:00 pm, and all other guests are welcomed into the dinner at 6:00 pm. The VIP cocktail hour from 5:00 pm until 6:00 pm is exclusive to sponsors and will feature live entertainment from Simone French. The live bra auction will begin at 7:00 pm and will feature local businessmen modeling outrageously decorated bras that are auctioned off to the highest bidder.

“The proceeds from the gala are used to help local women and men battling cancer with out-of-pocket expenses that aren’t covered by insurance such as co-pays, gas cards for transportation to and from treatment, mortgage payments, utilities and prescriptions,” says chairperson Tonyea Weber. “It’s important to note that no proceeds raised go towards research—the money we raise is strictly for individuals and their needs.”

However, applicants cannot apply directly to Bras for a Cause Gulf Coast. Eligible patients may receive funding through their grant program by having their patient liaison from their treatment facility apply for a grant. When applications are received, the organization’s grant oversight committee reviews the application and presents their recommendation of fund distribution to the Bras for a Cause Gulf Coast board. Also, in conjunction with the grant program, Bras for a Cause Gulf Coast partners with other local non-profit medical facilities to help with uninsured and underserved communities.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON BRAS FOR A CAUSE GULF COAST,

JULLIE HUNLEY

When I was five-years-years old, my grandmother handed me a paint brush and had me paint ornaments at the ceramics shop that she owned. That paint brush started a journey leading to a wonderful career in painting. It is an honor to be part of four generations of female artists.

I worked my way through college painting on fabric. I was able to share my love with my mother, sister and many friends by attending painting seminars together. My family is very important to me, and my husband and sons pitch in to help with different parts of the process at my home studio.

I learned the joy of teaching early on. Several years ago, I started offering door hanger classes, and a visit to a glass shop in Destin a few years ago sparked passion for a new medium. The art of using crushed glass (I've always loved glass!) and resin to create beautiful designs intrigued me, and I added this new medium to my class schedule. One of my best students, Pam Rhea, now partners with me to create and offer classes together. I love seeing the enjoyment of our students when they create something beautiful. I love creating artwork to share with friends, family, and customers. It makes me happy to create something that is loved by each recipient.

Jullie's work can be found at Melt and More Alabama Artisans in downtown Fairhope.

Dots and Swirly Artists julliehunley

Rachel and Dennis McNulty

Katie Beater and Maggie Wyckoff

Mike Klein and Louise Mason

Elizabeth Henning and Mimi Henning

Michelle Patton and Mike Schiebert

Britney

Cain, Brandy Willingham, Kenley Gardner, and Lesley Bean

Jen and Samantha Herrmann

Karen McDonald and Sandra Harper

Lucy and Ack Moore

and shopping.

Courtney and Tom Harjung

Dennis and Deb Hopkins

Brad Pigage, Carrie Pigagae, Ricky Galloway, Mindy Galloway, Reese Galloway, and Jack Galloway

Jeanne Gable, Israel Keyes, Julie Main, sharon Stephens, Debbie Ellis, Clara Jackson, and Diane Gravat

Marsha Gottlieb and Don Bryant

Karen Rolison and Michelle Patton

Nancy Hoffman and Nickie Olson

Kristie Malloy and James Pickering

Marshall and Mary Cunningham

Mark Leach, Brad Granberry, and Paul Shestak

Jessica Harcrow, Traci Ferguson, and Hali Lyle

Southern Cancer Center Welcomes

Radiation Oncologist

Bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience to the Gulf Coast, Dr. Harmon understands that cancer is more than a physical disease. She emphasizes the importance of team collaboration with other physicians and aims to treat the whole patient, not just their cancer. She is now accepting radiation patients in Baldwin County.

Debbie Ellis, Diane Gravat, and Julie Mane

Frank Kostyra, Anita Kostyra, and Judy Woods

Kim Hurlburt and Debbie Hanson

Steven Janes, Angie Janes, and Emma Simmons

SouthernCancerCenter.com.

Fairhope Furniture Consignment is a home décor and hand selected consignment items store offering a wide selection of new and vintage pieces. Guests will find every style available from southern, farmhouse, coastal and European. The large store has several rooms that include an abundance of framed art, furniture, home décor, rugs, lamps, seasonal items, and outdoor living pieces.

addition to consigned goods, the shop carries a fun selection of inventory ideal for gifting including stemless wine glasses, printed hand towels, and candles.

With inventory arriving daily, there is always something new to explore

BY LIESEL SCHMIDT

RANDOLPH HITE

Supermom

As a design consultant and showroom manager for Triton Stone Group of Mobile, Randolph Hite has the perfect blend of creativity, organization and supervision in her work—three facets of her position mirrored by her role as a mother. With two kids at home, she often has a juggling act on her hands, but she appreciates all the ways being a working mom enriches her kids’ lives, as well as that of the family as a whole. “The nature of my job gives me an outlet for creativity, and my children see how passionate I am about my job,” says Hite, whose company is a wholesale distributor specializing in granite, marble, quartzite and man-made quartz. They also offer tile, sinks and flooring as well as design services to help each customer personalize their home and

make it their own. “I want my kids to find what they have a passion for and give it their all. Working and being away from them has its challenges, but at the end of the day, I love what I do, and hopefully I can lead by example and instill a good work ethic in my children.”

Working so closely with clients as they design their dream can be as challenging as it is rewarding, but Hite has learned something very important through this aspect of her job. “I’ve learned incredible patience,” she notes. “Everything takes time, every client is different, and each job has its particular challenges. I learned to control what I can control and that some things are just out of my hands, and that’s okay.”

There are other parallels that Hite sees between her work and motherhood, as well. “I feel such a sense of pride when I see my customers fall in love with their finished projects,” she notes, “and as a mother, it helps me see things in the long term. Things may be messy or difficult for a while, but in the end, it’s all worth it to have hopefully raised hard working, respectful and passionate adults.”

In being a mother, Hite has learned some incredibly invaluable lessons from her children. “They have really taught me to be more patient and understanding,” she observes. “I have learned to pause and think about how I felt when I was their age and the difficulties that come with navigating those preteen and teen years. I have also learned compassion. My daughter is so pure of heart, and I am blessed to see that in her interactions with her friends and peers. In addition, I have learned to experience joy. My son and his passion and determination for baseball makes me remember to embrace each moment and live it to the fullest.”

We Welcome New Patients

Malbis Parkway Pediatric Dentistry,

children’s

15 years Hite and her husband, Glen, were both born in Mississippi and now live in Spanish Fort with their son and daughter. Together as a family, they love watching their Mississippi State Bulldogs play baseball and football. As they inch nearer to empty nesting, Hite hopes that, when the time comes and her children have built lives of their own, that they remember her as a dedicated mother. “Everything I do is for them,” she says. “All the times I brought work home and seemed to be in over my head was because of my love for them and my drive to provide them the best life possible."

“In my personal life and in the raising of kids, my motto is this: It’s okay to make mistakes in life,” she says. “Those are learning and teaching moments. In order to become a successful person, one has to fail and take accountability for their actions. Instead of being the victim and always blaming someone or something, take ownership of your flaws. Take responsibility and own your mistakes. That’s the way we learn from them and grow into successful adults. Also, you are never too old to learn new things.”

children

FULL RANGE OF DENTAL SERVICES

Preventative

Oral Health Exams

Sedation

Diamine Fluoride

Dental

KRISTIN CORREA, DMD

M.

Special

We deliver what matters most

devoted physicians at Coastal OB/GYN are there with you every step of the way.

it’s navigating puberty, experiencing pregnancy for the first time, or entering menopause,

provide the compassionate care and personal attention every woman deserves.

flourish féte

Supporters of Flourish Teen Center for Girls joined together at Eastern Shore Art Center to enjoy tasty hors d’oeuvres from The Roaming Oyster, cocktails from Tap and Pour, live music, and a silent auction featuring beautiful art along with other items. Flourish, located in Daphne, provides a community space for teen girls to grow in a healthy way.

Trent and Molly Cameron Dr. Katie Erdlitz, Dr. Katrina Skinner and Natalie Clarke

Suzanne Donaghey and Emilie Ulicsni

Leah and Greg Austin

Steve and Meg Foerster

Jennifer Myers, Natalie Wynn, Sierra Daugherty, Emilie Ulicsni and Rose Anne Haven

Madeline Crawley and Allie Ward

Carol and John Richter

Natalie Wynn and Crystal Bailey

Lauren Goode and Monica Nash

Photos by Ruili Cai

SOCIAL

Canterbury Park is a gated residential subdivision located in the heart of Spring Hill catering to those who want to reside in a highend community and minimize the worries of everyday property maintenance.

Twelve private lots make up the exceptional development where each home plan has been exclusively designed by McCown Design and landscaping design by WAS Design

ERIN MOODY, CORTNEY MORRIS, KRISTEN NIBLETT AND LAWREN REAVES

Lauren Hoffman and Courtney Gordon

Alle and Suzanne Johnson

Caryn Buchanan and Meridith South

Janie Widemire, Darin Wynn, Natalie Wynn, Stephanie Robinson and Ryan Robinson

Sierra Daughtery, Monica Nash, Suzanne Donaghey and Emilie Ulicsni

John

Darin Wynn, Natalie Wynn, Carol Richter, Leah Austin and Greg Austin

Natalie

Kalla Bufkin, Maggie Norton, Marci Malec,

Roberts and

Mitchell Cancer Institute is Transforming Breast Cancer Care.

Mitchell Cancer Institute is Transforming Breast Cancer Care.

Donna Lynn Dyess, MD Breast Surgeon Principal Investigator, Lumicell Pivotal Breast Cancer Trial

Donna Lynn Dyess, MD Breast Surgeon Principal Investigator, Lumicell Pivotal Breast Cancer Trial

hen it comes to breast cancer, the USA Health Mitchell Cancer Institute (MCI) is the region’s only academic cancer research center providing patients along the upper Gulf Coast with unparalleled access to cutting-edge technology. As a breast surgeon and principal investigator (PI) for the recently completed Lumicell Feasibility and Pivotal Breast Cancer Trial, Donna Lynn Dyess, M.D., championed a new investigational approach* in surgical oncology that has the potential to transform breast cancer care in our region. The MCI is one of only 14 facilities in the United States and the only site in Alabama who participated in the trial, identifying a number of qualifying breast cancer patients.

WWhen it comes to breast cancer, the USA Health Mitchell Cancer Institute (MCI) is the region’s only academic cancer research center providing patients along the upper Gulf Coast with unparalleled access to cutting-edge technology. As a breast surgeon and principal investigator (PI) for the recently completed Lumicell Feasibility and Pivotal Breast Cancer Trial, Donna Lynn Dyess, M.D., championed a new investigational approach* in surgical oncology that has the potential to transform breast cancer care in our region. The MCI is one of only 14 facilities in the United States and the only site in Alabama who participated in the trial, identifying a number of qualifying breast cancer patients.

Through the MCI’s commitment to clinical trials and research, breast cancer patients are provided the opportunity to receive new and exploratory surgical techniques that would otherwise not be available to them. The MCI’s team of fellowship-trained surgeons and specialists work together to offer the most comprehensive breast cancer care to patients in our community. Dr. Dyess is passionate about providing breast cancer patients the opportunity to be a part of progressive research and leading-edge medicine at the MCI.

Through the MCI’s commitment to clinical trials and research, breast cancer patients are provided the opportunity to receive new and exploratory surgical techniques that would otherwise not be available to them. The MCI’s team of fellowship-trained surgeons and specialists work together to offer the most comprehensive breast cancer care to patients in our community. Dr. Dyess is passionate about providing breast cancer patients the opportunity to be a part of progressive research and leading-edge medicine at the MCI.

“To optimize each patient’s chance of beating cancer, it takes evaluating new approaches in surgical oncology. The Lumicell trial provided the opportunity to evaluate and make optimizations in real time with the goal of giving the highest quality breast cancer care,” says Dr. Dyess.

“To optimize each patient’s chance of beating cancer, it takes evaluating new approaches in surgical oncology. The Lumicell trial provided the opportunity to evaluate and make optimizations in real time with the goal of giving the highest quality breast cancer care,” says Dr. Dyess.

Breast-conserving surgery is a critical first step of treatment. The goal is to remove all cancerous cells, leaving behind only healthy tissue. In as many as 20-40% of breast cancer cases, cancer cells are found at the margins of the removed tissue, typically requiring patients to undergo a second surgery to extract remaining cancer. Lumicell’s image-guided technology aimed to change the way breast cancer is treated by empowering surgeons to identify and remove all cancer cells during the initial surgery, with the goals of reducing the chances of repeat surgeries, improving surgical outcomes and reducing health care costs.

Breast-conserving surgery is a critical first step of treatment. The goal is to remove all cancerous cells, leaving behind only healthy tissue. In as many as 20-40% of breast cancer cases, cancer cells are found at the margins of the removed tissue, typically requiring patients to undergo a second surgery to extract remaining cancer. Lumicell’s image-guided technology aimed to change the way breast cancer is treated by empowering surgeons to identify and remove all cancer cells during the initial surgery, with the goals of reducing the chances of repeat surgeries, improving surgical outcomes and reducing health care costs.

The MCI’s team combines clinical care, education and research to push the envelope and deliver innovative solutions, resulting in improved cancer outcomes.

The MCI’s team combines clinical care, education and research to push the envelope and deliver innovative solutions, resulting in improved cancer outcomes.

To learn more about the MCI’s leading-edge research and multidisciplinary approach, visit usamci.com or

To learn more about the MCI’s leading-edge research and multidisciplinary approach, visit usamci.com or

By Liesel Schmidt

When God prompted her to get a breast exam at a screening in a Walmart parking lot in 2015, Beverley ValRie knew to listen. What came from that screening was an early diagnosis of Stage One HR2 breast cancer, which eventually led to the removal of her right breast. It took months to recover from surgery, coupled with the effects of the chemo treatments she was receiving. “I fought every day,” says ValRie, a Realtor in Fairhope. “But even though I was scared, confused and thinking of my family’s future if things went badly, I knew in my heart that it was not time for me to die.”

Through the support of her family, friends and daily prayer, ValRie made it through multiple surgeries, the loss of her hair, months of chemo treatments, countless appointments, loss of appetite and constant fatigue. After going into remission, she

underwent a breast implant. “I have scars from all the surgeries, but they remind me every day that I am a cancer survivor, and I am blessed to be here.” She is now in her sixth year of remission and offers this: “To anyone facing cancer, I would advise them to stay strong and fight this illness. Find the support of your family and friends, and pray that God will bring you out of this so you can ring that bell in victory!”

Beverley ValRieBeverley ValRie

Brenda JacksonBrenda Jackson

By Liesel Schmidt

More vigilant than many, Brenda Jackson did everything right: the annual check-ups, the regular mammograms…It was that watchfulness that caught a problem in her right breast in time to do something. “I received a call that I needed to come back and redo my mammogram because an abnormality was showing up—I didn’t have a lump, but it was a mass that could only be seen with 3-D imaging,” explains Jackson, who works as a postal carrier for the USPS. “I did and then received a called that I needed a biopsy. When they called with the results, I had to pull my mail truck over.”

The news Jackson was given on December 6, 2021, during that call was a diagnosis of invasive carcinoma cancer.”

Determined to survive, Jackson called some prayer warriors in her circle. “My faith is strong, and I knew if I stood on God’s Word, I would win my fight,” she says. “I

have been so blessed to have a large support group, and if it hadn’t been for my faith and that support, I may have given up.” With the end of her treatment in sight, Jackson continues to hold steady in her faith. “I already know that I’m healed. To all women, I say please do your monthly self-examination and don’t forget your yearly exam and mammogram.”

KELLY WELFEL

While growing up in St. Louis, Kelly always longed for the day she could live close to the beach. Every year her family would head South for their annual vacation, and she knew early on that she wanted to chart a path that ended close to the water. Her life has taken her from St. Louis to Little Rock, and when the opportunity presented itself, Kelly made the decision to call Fairhope home.

Going back to her childhood, Kelly has always had a passion for all things beauty related. At a very young age, her enthusiasm inspired her to jump into the cosmetics industry in which she has built an impressive resume. Kelly's desire to open her own boutique began to cultivate. Blend Boutique is the result of that desire coming to fruition. Alongside her interior designer, Hunter Bridges, she has created an environment that captivates you as soon as you walk through the door. Blend Boutique will offer an array of products and services, along with curated gift boxes and wrapping.

From skincare and cosmetics to lashes and spray tans, Blend will truly be a one-stop shop for everything beauty services related.

ADDITIONAL PHOTO CREDITS: Photographer: Rhand McCoy, McCoy Visuals Dress: Sadie's of Fairhope

Photo Concept and Design: Hunter Bridges Interiors/Gulf Coast Staging

BlendBoutique

VISION

Blend is a luxury beauty services boutique carrying the best quality in carefully cultivated makeup, skincare, bodycare and men's grooming products. Our experienced makeup artists and certified lash and spray tan technicians are ready to provide you with a complete beauty experience.

SERVICES

Our professional makeup artists will customize a beautiful look for you for any event on and off-site. From personal makeup lessons to all out glam sessions, we have you covered. We can also help you with beautiful lashes and the perfect glow.

We look forward to helping you look and feel your best!

ENVIRONMENT

The environment will be luxurious yet inviting with a lounge area for the girls to relax and have champagne before a night on the town! Husband(s) with you? Blend will have a men's lounge with luxury men's grooming products.

EVENTS & COMMUNITY

Monthly Events & Tutorials such as Bourbon and Beards

During Grand Opening Weekend Blend Boutique will have giveaways and donate a percentage of proceeds to Breast Cancer Awareness!

THIS GRAC IOUS HOME

Story: Liesel Schmidt // Designer: Erin Schaumburg Photos: Eugenia Lubrano-Gangi of NOLA RE Marketing

The word “sprawling” is somewhat of an understatement when it comes to the home that Matt and Michelle Bowers share, a masterpiece of transitional architecture boasting 8500 square feet of living spaces and 3500 square footage of garage and porch space. Comprising twenty-one rooms in total, there is no shortage of room for the Bowers and their two teenaged boys, including five bedrooms and five and a half baths in the home’s two levels—plus a carriage house.

Surrounded by an immaculately manicured and beautifully landscaped property, the home claims the perfect setting, offering a storybook feel of enchantment and charm. With its white painted brick exterior, multitudinous windows, and tin roof with exposed oak beam bracketing, the expansive home paints a magnificent picture of design. The interior is, naturally, every bit as impressive, with high, vaulted ceilings offset with dark-stained oak detailing that brings a cohesion to the home, echoing the oak flooring that runs throughout.

As minimalistic as it is in décor, it is this architectural detail that gives this home its remarkableness. A beautifully orchestrated collaboration of well-known Floridian architect, Geoff Chick of Geoff Chick & Associates, builder, Harrison Construction and interior designer, Erin Schaumburg, there’s an incredible openness to the home, a blend of wood and metal and stone that is chic and modern without being cold. Quite the contrary, as the natural elements bring a warmth to the spaces that is intensified by so much natural light and the many unique light fixtures thoughtfully placed throughout its many rooms.

“Our home is very quiet and has a peaceful and relaxing vibe,” observes Michelle, a real estate agent with Rutter Realty. Matt, meanwhile, owns several car dealerships in addition to being a real estate developer. “We chose the location because it’s close to schools and convenient to all of Matt’s dealerships.”

The location is undeniably ideal for this massive home, allowing for the main structure as well as the carriage house and a pool nestled between the two, a glittering oasis just off a covered porch that is perfectly designed for entertaining. Naturally, with its various seating areas and outdoor fireplace, the back patio and screened porch are among the Bowers’ favorite places to spend time.

The “dirty kitchen” is another well-loved and oft-used space of the home, boasting dark grey custom cabinetry, marble countertops and a Wolf gas range, all nestled into a galley space that feels incredibly open due to a bank of windows that spill light into the room. Open shelving is set into the back wall, offset against counter-to-ceiling marble tile backsplash.

The main kitchen is, naturally, even more of a showpiece, with a massive center island that stretches the length of the vast space, boasting dark wooden cabinetry that contrasts beautifully against the white perimeter cabinets. White marble countertops connect the two, and a backsplash of square white tiles adds texture to the design, with a brushed brass and stainless-steel finish on the hood vent that introduces a little bit of glamour, along with pendant lamps suspended above the island.

Our master bedroom is comfy and cozy, and it’s the perfect space to relax and escape the stresses of the day,”

Naturally, the master suite is worthy of an architectural and interior design spread in a glossy editorial, with bespoke wallpaper on a feature wall behind the bed, a massive four-poster affair that draws the eye upward to soaring ceilings that peak to exposed wooden beams. Floor to ceiling windows give the room light on two sides, and the ensuite bath is a lavish study in marble featuring a freestanding tub, walk-in shower, and his and hers vanities at opposite sides of the room. Off the bath is a massive closet space and a tiny kitchenette space with all the necessary accoutrements for morning coffee or a midnight snack. “Our master bedroom is comfy and cozy, and it’s the perfect space to relax and escape the stresses of the day,” says Michelle.

this,

home

Treatment As Unique As You Are

Each patient is different. We’ll work to find the specific course of treatment that’s best for you. We want our patients to feel confident treating their varicose veins.

Our process is simple — it starts with an online screening or you can give us a call.

Josh Oakes, Leslie Beard, Laura Guarisco, and Genevieve Hutfless

David Williams, Lisa Williams, Brad Pitt, Kim Pritt, Dawn Weiman, and Mark Weiman

Kick-Off Luncheon

Photos by Ruili Cai

The United Way of Baldwin County held their kick-off luncheon at the Daphne Civic Center with special guest speaker Nate Oats, Head Coach for the Alabama basketball team. The United Way of Baldwin County’s collaborative effort with health and human service agencies work to build, grow and enhance the well-being of citizens in Baldwin County. The United Way of Baldwin County provides support for 30 nonprofit health and human service agencies serving residents in all of Baldwin County.

Savannah Childress, Meghan Murphy, Shelly Beech, and Michele Allen Meghan Battles, Jodi Keating, and Michelle Baldwin

Nick Wilmott and Nathan Cox

Margaret Roley, Karen Chastang, Taylor Lewis, and Julie Abercrombie

Judge Jody Bishop and Carl Jones

Gale Croft and Kim Frank

LaTisha Davis and Dana McLeod

Emma Thomasson and Kendall Crowley

Sarah Young, Chasity Riddick, and Tiffany Wilson

Donna Gilman and Casey Williams

Launching

Melissa Hollingsworth, Angela Byrnes, and Maria Byrnes

Brian Husky, Stephen Tirador, Melinda Byrd-Murphy, Josh Baxter, Gia Long, Tom DeBell, Adam Hall, and Stephen Sullivan

Meghan Battles, Jodi Keating, and Michelle Baldwin

Dana Watson, Carl McNatt, Billy Miller, and Arcelia Miller

Diane AndersonDiane Anderson

By Liesel Schmidt

After a self-exam revealed a lump, Diane Anderson heard a diagnosis that seemed to come out of left field, having no history of breast cancer in her family. Facing triple positive breast cancer—which meant she was dealing with HER2-positive, ER-positive and PR-positive breast cancer—she underwent chemotherapy followed by a lumpectomy, radiation and Infusions over the next year. Then, in February of 2021, she rang the bell celebrating her last treatment.

To others facing the journey she has, Anderson says, “Ask lots of questions, take lots of notes and educate yourself! Listen to your body—it will tell you what it needs. If you’re tired, don’t fight it—rest! When friends ask how they can help, let them know what they can do and graciously let them. When people want to pray for you, let them know prayers are always welcome. I had friends that would go to my chemo

treatments with me and sit there for hours, co-workers and friends who brought us numerous dinners so we would have one less thing to worry about. Every phone call, card, email and text were greatly appreciated.”

Anderson is active with the Pink Pearls Breast Cancer Support Group with Infirmary Cancer Care. “Having the support of this community of women has been a huge help during my treatments,” says Anderson, the COO and Strategic Relationship Consultant at Avizo Group, Inc. Her husband’s love and support were also incredibly crucial. “He was my strength during all of this,” she says. Battling cancer is a team effort, and I will be forever grateful to my cancer care ‘team.’”

By Liesel Schmidt

Former personal chef, Pam Hunter, loves cooking and, of course, people—and that love she has for people has been instrumen tal in her work as the first Gulf Coast executive director for Baller Dream Foundation, a non-profit organization whose mission is “To lift the spirits of brave young cancer warriors, ages birth to 29.” As a cancer survivor herself, she under stands the toll that it takes on the body, soul and a mind - so the connection she has is intensely personal.

Hunter’s own diagnosis came in January of 2020, ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), which was detected during her annual mammogram and the ultrasound that followed. DCIS is the presence of abnor mal cells inside a milk duct in the breast and is considered the earliest form of breast cancer, with a low risk of becoming invasive. Fortunately, it is usually found

during a mammogram and doesn’t typically present with any signs or symptoms.

Over two years into recovery after treatment and surgery, Hunter is on the other side of things, and is thankful for all of the support she received as she went through it. “My family and friends have been supportive in so many ways,” she says. “I also discovered during my journey, a special tribe of breast cancer survivors, who have helped me through the process.” In addition to her work at Baller Dream Foundation, she serves on the “Tee Off For A Cure” planning committee, which raises money to fund pediatric cancer research at Children’s of Alabama.

Pam HunterPam Hunter

Photo credit: Stephen Savage

The Breast Center at Thomas Hospital

The Breast Center at Thomas Hospital offers ultrasound diagnostic imaging in addition to the 2-D and 3-D screening capabilities also available. While screening mammograms are recommended at regular intervals for most women in certain age groups, a diagnostic mammogram is performed when there is a sign or symptom of disease.

“We offer 3-D mammography which allows doctors to examine breast tissue layer by layer. For diagnostics, ultrasound which is estimated to improve detection by as much as 55 percent over mammography alone.” Kathy Linam, manager of the Breast Center said. “To complement our screening services and for those who have dense breasts, we now have Automated Breast Ultrasound (ABUS), a whole breast ultrasound unit for early detection of abnormalities.”

The Breast Center performs at least 2,000 procedures each month. Of those, approximately 40 are typically biopsies, following screening and diagnostic mammograms. Accredited by the American College of Radiology, the center is ranked as a Breast Center of Excellence. Additionally, Thomas Hospital has been named as one of the top 100 hospitals in the nation by Women’s Choice for patient experience and has received numerous other awards.

“At the Breast Center, we have a breast radiologist on site. Not all facilities do,” Linam said. “We give feedback to our diagnostic patients while they are still at still at the Breast Center, which helps reduce stress and worry. Any way that we can try to keep our patients at ease helps.”

For more information, contact The Breast Center at Thomas Hospital, 251-279-1633.

Meet Caroline McGugin, MD, MPH

Infirmary Surgical Specialists

Dr. Caroline McGugin is a fellowship-trained breast surgeon who specializes in breast surgery and treats all breast conditions, including breast cancer, those at high-risk for breast cancer, and benign breast disease. She is board certified by the American Board of Surgery and works alongside medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, plastic surgeons and Infirmary’s High Risk Breast Clinic on both sides of the Bay.

Today, the chance of a woman developing invasive breast cancer in her lifetime is a little less than one in eight, but for some women, the risk of developing the disease is much higher. The High Risk Breast Clinic identified women at a higher risk level and provides individualized preventative care to reduce that risk. For more information, visit infirmaryhealth.org

Am I at High Risk?

Women consider at high risk have or have had:

History of breast or ovarian cancer

Known family history of cancer

Multiple breast biopsies

Hormone therapy

Fibroadenoma

Hyperplasia of the breast

Baller Dream Foundation hosted its first “Men with Style” fashion show at the Fairhope Yacht Club. Local gents modeled some of the best in men’s fall fashion that can be found at fine shops in downtown Fairhope.

Attendees were treated to complimentary prosecco while they browsed the great handbags, art and more on the raffles. Lunch was served while ladies had the opportunity to enjoy great conversation as they awaited the fashion show. Everyone had a wonderful time supporting the mission of Baller Dream Foundation, lifting the spirits of children and young adults affected by cancer.

Ed Hammele, Michael Daniell, and Steve Carey

Hannah Roberts, Susan Riley, and Sydney Hulett

William Hanes and Angelo Fermo

Stacy Cramton and Jody Donald

Shannon Hesse, Tracie Sweat, and Staci Niemeyer

Kerri Benson, Nancy Barter, Deanna Toifel, Pam Hunter, Emily Gibson, Chesley Allegri, Maxine Fandrich, and Coco Fox

Shana Jordan and Kerri Benson

Adrienne and Owen Gill

Sean and Lillian Travis

Stephen Savage, Lenise Ligon, and Pete Blohme

Photos by Ruili Cai

John Racciatti and Tina Smith

Melanie Campbell, Gina Cox, Angel Coleman, and Kimberly Cox

Charles Holloway, Steve Carey, Tommy Bender, Sydney Raine, and David Thomas Jr

Tracie

Sweat, Lawren Reaves, Shannon Hesse, Katherine Robison, Lisa Jordan, and Staci Niemeyer

Cindy Zebryk and Cindy Dewey

Jessica Kirk Johnson and Richard Johnson

Shana Jordan and Frank DeBlasi

Elizabeth Radcliff and Dawn Smith

Amy McDonald and Ashley Holmes

Debra Weisser, Shelley Stallworth, and Carrie Barry

Kathy Neal, Tina Smith, and Liz Booher

The Harty Carpenter Group

The Harty Carpenter Group

Reeves

Scott Tripoli, Ed Hammele, Niall Fraser, John Racciatti, and Jack Burrell

Watson, Kathy Huey, Gina Cox, and Katherine Seibt

Donald, Laura Brown, Stacy Cramton, and Lacy Radcliff

Sheldon & William

WHEREVER YOU GO...

STORY BY LIESEL SCHMIDT PHOTOGRAHY BY MELISSA BRIELLE

While their paths to each other may have taken somewhat of a circuitous route back to one another after their first meeting, Sheldon Mills and William Morissette have a story that seems meant to be— and a love that has only grown stronger with time. “We met in 2013 when we were both in the Mobile Carnival Association Mardi Gras Court,” says Sheldon. “Although William was not my knight, he was my knight’s best friend, and we spent months together through the carnival season.”

Still, both went their separate ways when the season ended: Sheldon finished college at Sewanee, William at Ole Miss. After graduation, Sheldon moved to Colorado for the next six years, while William headed to the French Culinary Institute in New York City and began working as a chef in restaurants throughout the city after graduation. Later, Sheldon moved to Atlanta to attend Emory School of Nursing, while William left New York and headed to New Orleans. While fate closed the distance between them, it wasn’t until William’s sister Seline’s coronation as Queen of Mardi Gras that their paths crossed again fully.

The two began to date, and it only took a few weeks before William told his mom Melissa that he had “found the girl he was going to marry.” Almost immediately, the couple knew that marriage was in the cards. William asked Sheldon’s parents for her hand in marriage, and then, six months later, he proposed. With the help of his parents and sister, William planned a surprise engagement party at his grandmother’s home. Sheldon unknowingly thought they were going to stop by and visit before going out, but when they entered the house, William dropped to one knee and proposed.

Just over two years later, on July 23, 2022, Sheldon walked down the aisle at The Chapel at Beaver Creek in Colorado, wearing a custom made off-the-shoulder gown with a diagonally draped bodice and cathedral train extending from the A-line skirt, accented with a cathedral length veil handmade by her mother—though actually making it to the altar was not without its challenges. “My father and stepfather escorted me down the aisle, and even though we rehearsed this on Friday evening, we didn’t realize that the aisle wasn’t wide enough for all three of us and my dress,” says Sheldon. “Needless to say, a few flower pew markers lost their lives. I never thought I would laugh the whole way down the aisle at my wedding!”

With friends and family who had all gathered for an epic wedding weekend in Colorado looking on, Sheldon and William exchanged vows and were pronounced married. After walking back down the aisle without incident, the newlyweds and their guests adjourned to Sheldon’s family home in Mountain Star for a reception with a scenic view, nestled at the top of a mountain surrounded by The White River National Forest and overlooking Beaver Creek Resort. Having indulged in a buffet of delicious “Colorado-style” food, dancing commenced—as did a wardrobe change to a short cocktail dress made by Sheldon’s mother for the occasion. Sweetening things up was a stunning five-tiered cake with alternating flavors of pistachio, almond and peach covered in white buttercream and adorned by fresh flowers matching the flowers at the reception. Playing the perfect whimsical counterpart to such an elegant bridal cake, the groom’s cake was quite the fake-out. “My mom and stepdad surprised William with a special grooms cake made to look like a bowl of gumbo with rice, a three-tier seafood tower and a tray with oysters, lemon wedges and cocktail sauce,” says Sheldon. “When we were dating, William often took his family’s famous gumbo when we went to visit them, so they had Intricate Icings Cake Design out of Denver create the cake to memorialize that. It was so realistic that it fooled every guest and was the talk of the reception!”

After another wardrobe change to a knife-pleated gown topped off with a cream-colored cowboy hat, Sheldon and William made their escape in her stepfather’s 1995 Defender, ready to head off to honeymoon in the Maldives and Dubai. Now back home in Mobile, the couple is looking forward to finding out all the reasons that fate seemed so determined to bring them together.

GRAND OPENING

Photos by Ruili Cai

Orange Hibiscus Day Spa & Salon in Fairhope invited members of the community to join them for their Grand Opening event that showcased their beautiful day spa and salon. Guests enjoyed a cocktail toast, live music, custom cookies from Rosebud Confectionaries, and bites from Divine Empanadas and Bondhi Bowl food trucks.

Christian King, Tracy Sylers, and Gina Mikkelsen McBride

Jessica Fischer, Blake Kennedy, and Brian Norris

Nikole Gore and Joanne McGrath

Soni Marron and Caroline Talbert

Helen Allison, Bebe Pope, and Wren Wimmer

Vernon Wilson, Loretta Barton, Charlie Brake, and Kathy Toifel Brake

David Colvin and Chris Vaughn

Alex Rosendale and Kelley Stuardi

Suzanne Williams, Vinnie Valentine, and Michael Laboy

Deanna Toifel, Kris Laboy, and Joel Hays

The Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce invited ladies in the community to sip & shop as they learned makeup techniques, styles and colors for their face with their own Bobbi Brown makeup consultant, at Daphne’s Shoe Boutique for their Ladies Night Event. They also had the opportunity to shop for some great shoes and enjoyed drinks and appetizers during this evening of pampering.

Photos by Ruili Cai

Jennifer Fung and Susan Stringer

Shelley Piazza and Ashley Moore

Daphne Robinson and Joanna Almond

Mandy Burns and Jennifer Fung

Daphne Robinson, Steve Robinson, and Teddy

Shelley Piazza, Ashley Moore, Jennifer Fung, Mandy Burns, and Tracey Goens

Pam Hunter and Tracey Goens

Robin Riggins, Allie Easley, and Jennifer King

Jaclyn Gibbs and Norma Sampley

Deanna ToifelDeanna Toifel

By Liesel Schmidt

Sometimes, life doesn’t always observe the best timing. So was the case for Deanna Toifel, who received a diagnosis of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) on March 31, 2014. The next day, April 1st, was when she began telling family and friends the news—and, being April Fools’ Day, they all thought she was playing a cruel joke. The cruel thing, however, was Toifel’s prognosis. “Once they caught it, I was told I had only two or three days to live,” says the hairstylist, who has continued to live her life—and “make the world a more beautiful place, one head at a time”—for many more than those days.

In fact, she has been cancer free for eight years. Even after such a dire forecast was presented to her, Toifel took away some very extraordinary perspectives. “This doesn’t mean the end of the world or your life,” she says. “This is something beautiful that only a few select chosen ones get to

experience. Cancer filters out people in your life you don’t need but in return brings people into your life you had no clue you needed. I also learned how important it is to never stop smiling.”

Toifel is a volunteer with Baller Dream Foundation and is an active member of Camp Bluebird. “That, and my faith, has been my saving grace through this journey,” she says. “We all speak the same language, and we just get each other.”

By Liesel Schmidt

With a family history of cancer, Theresa Yost’s diagnosis of stage four Hodgkin’s lymphoma in early 2020 wasn’t completely surprised—but completely devastated. Not that she hadn’t known something was wrong. A registered nurse, she looked after her health and sought her doctor’s care when she noticed some worrisome symptoms. But it took unexplained weight loss and extreme weakness to shine a light on what was actually the cause, and Yost was naturally shattered by the news. Still, she did her research and met the challenges of treatment head on. “My inspiration to keep fighting was—and still is—my family and friends,” says Yost. “After seven months of treatment, my first scan was clear! I still had to complete the whole regimen, but I actually looked forward to each treatment. It meant I was I step closer to remission! I don’t think I

ever experienced the ‘why me’ phase, though I definitely experienced grief and acceptance, and I still do. So far, my scans have all been clear of any evidence of cancer. I’m in remission! When I received the news, I was elated! I realize it’s not a ‘cure,’ and I will continue to be monitored; but this is my life, and I am so thankful for it. I know that, with God and the love and support of my family and friends, this will all pass. My advice to all that are dealing with cancer is to never give up!”

Theresa YostTheresa Yost

organ Luongo, also known as “IVFruitful”, is a Gulf Coast influencer who shares a passion for the infertility community and a faith in others’ futures. With a full time career that allows her to utilize her master’s degree in healthcare administration, Morgan has always been devoted to a life that has a sense of purpose and helping others.

December of 2020, she felt passionate about sharing her journey and connecting with thousands of individuals to empower families struggling to conceive. Morgan and her husband, Steve, were blessed with a beautiful baby boy in August of 2022 after 3 years of treatments and in vitro fertilization. Through her social media, Morgan strives to motivate others to feel supported, heard, not alone, and now, share her lifestyle as a mom.

FALL SHOW FASHION

Photos by Ruili Cai

The Fall Fashion Show at The James P. Nix Center showcased the latest in fall fashion from some of downtown Fairhope’s premier boutiques modeled by the center’s very own senior ladies. The event featured door prizes donated by local businesses and refreshments. Cecil Christenberry, owner of Old Tyme Feed, served as emcee.

Lee Faulk, Lee Cunningham, Gloria Kent, Heidi Schneekloth, Pat Owen, Lisa Timmons, & Joni Wofford

Kim Ryland, Angie Dennis, Margie Smitherman, Sonya Reed, Peggy Hall, and Mary Wilsford

Carolyn Hill, Judy Abel Sand, and Norma Graham Gray Worsham, Karen Worsham, Betty Busby, and Sarah Schemmer

Jody Donald and Cynthia Breland

Alison Trawick and Chris Trigg

Lee Cunningham and Heidi Schneekloth

Kay Spence and Sarha Mae

Debbie White, Jan Fleming, and Mary Beth Svatek

and

Mobile Bay OB-GYN Center announces the addition of Francie O’Hea Ruzic, M.D., obstetrician and gynecologist Mobile, Ala.D

[MOBILE, AL] — Francie O’Hea Ruzic, M.D., obstetrician and gynecologist, joins Mobile Bay OBGYN Center following the completion of an obstetrics and gynecology residency at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. As a Mobile Native, Dr. Ruzic is thrilled to begin providing care to women of all ages in her hometown. She is now accepting new patients. Dr. Ruzic earned her medical degree from the University of South Alabama as well as a Bachelor of Science from Auburn University. She has been a leader amongst her peers, serving on multiple committees, while completing her residency at University of Alabama at Birmingham.

She has conducted research with UAB Women and Infants Center, Department of Maternal Fetal Medicine and is the recipient of Clyde G. Huggins Research Award Winner from the USA Mitchell Cancer Institute and Children & Women’s Hospital.

USA scientist receives $2.3 million grant renewal for flea pathogen research

USA Health clinics earn continued PatientCentered Medical Home recognition

[MOBILE, AL] — Four USA Health practices – USA Health Stanton Road Clinic, USA Health Family Medicine, USA Health Pediatrics and USA Health Adolescent Pediatrics – have been awarded recognition by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) PatientCentered Medical Home Program that ultimately translates to better experiences and outcomes for patients.

The NCQA Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH) standards emphasize the use of systematic, patient-centered, coordinated care that supports access, communication and patient involvement. The program reflects the input of the American College of Physicians, American Academy of Family Physicians, American Academy of Pediatrics, American Osteopathic Association and others.

NCQA accredits and certifies a wide range of healthcare organizations. It also recognizes clinicians and practices in key areas of performance. Learn more at ncqa.org.

[MOBILE, AL]

— A $2.3 million grant renewal from the National Institutes of Health will help scientist Kevin Macaluso, Ph.D., and his colleagues at the Frederick P. Whiddon College of Medicine at the University of South Alabama, ultimately improve diagnosis and treatment of diseases transmitted by fleas and other insects.

There are no vaccines available to prevent rickettsial infections and antibiotics are not recommended for prevention of such diseases.

Rickettsial infections, such as Rocky Mountain spotted fever, are bacterial diseases that can produce mild to severe, flu-like symptoms and are transmitted through the bites of arthropods such as fleas and ticks. If untreated, the toll of the disease on humans can be severe. In the United States, there are about 5,500 rickettsial infection cases reported each year to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. That number is likely much larger because the majority of cases typically go unreported.

Macaluso, Locke Distinguished Chair and a professor in the department of microbiology and immunology at the Whiddon College of Medicine, said the grant is essential for his lab’s continued work.

“Our ultimate goal for this research is to make clear the biological and molecular mechanisms that are critical to rickettsial transmission by fleas so we can better understand the epidemiology of flea-borne rickettsial diseases and identify novel points of intervention,” Macaluso said.

Recent discoveries, including the transmission of flea-borne pathogens in the absence of a rickettsemic host and the identification of multiple rickettsial agents co-circulating in flea populations have guided the research to determine if overlapping rickettsial agents circulating in flea populations influence the transmission one another.

The assembly of the cat flea genome, which Macaluso and other collaborators first published details about in June 2020, also allows for investigation of the flea-derived factors that facilitate or prevent Rickettsia transmission.

Rickettsia felis originally was identified in the United States as a human pathogen in 1991 and now is associated with human infection in North and South America, Europe, Africa, Asia, and Oceania.

Forbes magazine names Infirmary Health best healthcare system employer in Alabama

[MOBILE, AL] — Infirmary Health earned recognition as one of the “Best places to work and the top healthcare system employer in the state of Alabama,” according to the 2022 America’s Best-in-State Employers list released by Forbes magazine.

The list was developed through a partnership of Forbes and market research company, Statista, identifying organizations favored best by employees in each state. Findings were compiled from an anonymous survey of 70,000 employees nationwide, representing 25 industry sectors. Forbes’ list of Best-in-State Employers considered every aspect of an employee’s experience, such as working conditions, salary, potential for growth and diversity. Forbes also considered direct recommendations from employees, as well as indirect recommendations from workers in the healthcare sector.

“At Infirmary Health, our mission is LIFE—Leadership. Integrity. Family. Excellent Service. — and our greatest asset is our 6,100 team members,” said Mark Nix, President & CEO of Infirmary Health. “The recognition from Forbes as the best healthcare system employer in Alabama affirms our dedication to our staff and physicians who work to provide high-quality healthcare to our communities. We could not meet the needs of our region without the support and dedication of each team member.”

Infirmary Health employs 6,100 dedicated individuals from Mobile, Baldwin and surrounding counties in Alabama, Florida and Mississippi. As the largest non-governmental healthcare system in Alabama, Infirmary Health accounts for an additional 6,500 jobs indirectly across the state and is the largest private employer in Mobile and Baldwin Counties.

USA awarded $5.45 million to enhance Primary Care Pathway program

[MOBILE, AL] — With the goal to increase the number of primary care physicians in rural and medically underserved communities and ultimately improve the health of those populations, the Frederick P. Whiddon College of Medicine at the University of South Alabama received $5.45 million from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) to expand and enhance its Primary Care Pathway (PCP) program.

This award supplements a grant the Whiddon College of Medicine received from HRSA in September 2019. The initial grant, plus all supplemental funding, now totals $19.8 million.

Launched in July 2020, the PCP program is an educational track that provides medical students with four years of specialized training in primary care. The Primary Care Pathway Scholars are selected based on an interest in primary care and a willingness to commit to the practice following residency training. The program enrolls up to 10 students per class, for a total of 40 PCP Scholars.

Diagnostic & Medical Clinic welcomes family medicine physician, Jared Jones, MD

[MOBILE, AL] — Jared Jones, M.D. joins Diagnostic & Medical Clinic (DMC) following the completion of his residency in family medicine at the University of South Alabama. As a family medicine physician, he will provide a range of acute, chronic and preventative medical services. This includes diagnosing and treating illness, routine checkups and healthy lifestyle management.

Gulf Orthopaedics welcomes orthopaedic spine surgeon, Blake Bowden, M.D.

[MOBILE, AL] — Blake Bowden, M.D. joins Gulf Orthopaedics an affiliate of Infirmary Health, following the completion of a spine surgery fellowship at the Texas Back Institute. As an orthopaedic spine surgeon, Dr. Bowden will focus on the diagnosis and treatment of bone and joint disorders affecting the spine.

Dr. Bowden is a graduate of Boston University with a bachelor of science in manufacturing engineering. He earned his degree in medicine from Drexel University in Philadelphia, PA and completed a residency in orthopaedics with the Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University.

Gulf Orthopaedics team of experienced physicians provide the Gulf Coast Region with the latest, most cutting-edge surgical and non-surgical treatment methods, specializing in trauma, sports medicine, spine disorders, shoulder replacement, hip replacement, knee replacement and foot-ankle treatment. Learn more at gulfortho.com.

Dr. Jones is a graduate of the Louisiana University of Shreveport with a bachelor of science in molecular and cellular biology. He earned his medical degree from the Louisiana State University at Shreveport. During his residency at the University of South Alabama, he was elected chief resident for the 2021-2022 academic year. Dr. Jones is a veteran of the United States Marine Corps, achieving the rank of sergeant.

SHOW US YOUR SELFIES WITH SOCIAL!

Selfies

REDEFINING