Woman Newspapers, Dauphin County, September/October 2016 by Woman Newspapers

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Special Edition DAUPHIN COUNTY EDITION SEPTEMBER & OCTOBER 2016

IN THIS SPECIAL ISSUE:

Predicting Cancer: Genes Can Be The Key

Breast Cancer Risk Factors

DEB BAER BECKER:

Monsters At The Door aka Life After Cancer

Purchase Purchaseaa Stylish Stylish Savings Savingscoupon couponbooklet bookletatat Guest Guest Services Servicesfor for $5 $5 anytime anytime inin September September and and October.All Allproceeds proceedswill will benefit benefit the the Pennsylvania Pennsylvania October. Breast Cancer cancer Coalition. While supplies supplieslast. last. Breast Coalition. While

Photo: In The Moment Photography by Hollis.

Publisher’s Note I always thought that I’d see you again No wristbands. Support groups were not her thing. Ironically, in the end, by choosing NOT to focus on the cancer, she became a role model for living with breast cancer.

The dreaded late-night call came from a family friend asking, “Can you come?” Breast cancer had succeeded in taking my friend of 35 years from me, her family, her circle of friends, the world. But some people will always be with us and Judy Stokes is one of those people. Judy lives on in those who knew her because of the kind of person she was. Judy said everything you wished you could say — so clever and quick. She did not suffer fools gladly, but, oh, could she make you laugh. She could have you holding your sides within minutes of entering the room. She had funny catch phrases for every situation, most of which I couldn’t repeat here. When Judy’s “normal” vanished and was replaced with surgery and treatments, she fought hard and kept her sense of humor. When her hair fell out, she bought a wig. When she lost a third of her body-weight we joked her new diet was working. She didn’t want her circle of family and friends to fuss over her. It actually pissed her off.

I know I’m not alone in the fact that I’ve lost loved ones to breast cancer. My mother died at the age of 58, a victim of this horrible disease, and getting over her death has taken most of my adult life. If there are lessons to be learned it’s simply this: life waits for no one, and it goes on. Gilda Radner said, “If it wasn’t for the side effects, everyone would want cancer,” because it is that thing that jilts you alive and makes you look at life from a new perspective. You rise above all the trivial nonsense that fills our daily lives and you become aware of what is truly important. Miss ya Jude.

When Judy’s cancer spread, everyone was concerned - how much can one person take, after all? One morning, after helping her into the hospital shower, she re-emerged, looking at her thinning hair and sagging skin with that look on her face - a look that I, and her circle of friends and family, had seen hundreds of times before. It was my favorite look. It was Judy’s look that said, “ohfergawdsake!”

LOUISE SUKLE Editor & Publisher

And her circle of friends was extensive; in number and range of ages. At the visitation, so many were in attendance that those who couldn’t find chairs lined the walls. It was a full house - her childhood friends, her daughters’ friends, neighbors, family, former co-workers - Judy would have loved that. She would roll her eyes at my sentimentality so I’ll glance over the part where we went in and out of crying jags over the unbearable loss. Throughout her illness, Judy never wore the victim’s hat. She hated that and everything it implied. She wore no pink ribbons.

EDITOR & PUBLISHER Louise Sukle lsukle@womannewspapers.com

CONTRIBUTORS Kathryn Baxter kathrynbaxter@gmail.com

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Julianna Sukle julianna@pressandjournal.com

Kathryn Baxter is a writer living in Brooklyn, NY. Find her online at womannewspapers.com/Kathryn-Baxter

SALES MANAGER Dave Brown daveb@pressandjournal.com ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES DAUPHIN COUNTY: Tina Rinehart (717) 421-3247 tinarinehart@pressandjournal.com CUMBERLAND COUNTY: Lauren Kanovich (717) 678-4826 laurenkanovich@pressandjournal.com

Brenda Tadych sumthin2say@hotmail.com Brenda Tadych is a lifelong resident of Dauphin County, currently residing in Middletown. Find her online at womannewspapers.com/Brenda-Tadych

My friend Judy and I clowning around trying to perfect our pinched-lip “Disapproving Mom” look.

Deb Baer Becker dbbecker2@yahoo.com Deb advocates for women’s breast health, and writes about her experience surviving breast cancer. She’s writing a book about her years as a young airman with the USAF Thunderbirds. She holds an MFA in Writing from Pacific University, and is the proud mother of two adult-sized children and two rescued dogs. She lives in Houston, Texas, but dreams of her native Pennsylvania’s rolling hills and cut-away fields. Find her online at womannewspapers.com/ Deb-Baer-Becker

Erika Farber erika.farber@gmail.com Erika has spent many years as a strong and independent force in both the restaurant business and online dating scene, and she has chosen this medium to share her successes and failures in both. Recounting the adventures that have shaped her life has enhanced her growth and ignited her passion for writing. Find her online at womannewspapers.com/Erika-Farber

Woman Newspapers are free bimonthly publications of Press And Journal Publications. All rights reserved. For submission requirements, e-mail info@womannewspapers.com. No part of the newspapers may be reprinted or duplicated without permission. Visit us online at womannewspapers.com | (717) 944-4628 | 20 South Union Street, Middletown, PA 17057 SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2016 Woman Newspapers

Write on.

Woman Newspapers SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2016

About the messages: Woman asked participants in the 2015 Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk to share why they came that day. Their comments were inspirational, hopeful and sometimes heart-wrenching. Some comments were from those who are fighting cancer or who have survived it, and some were for loved ones dealing with cancer. No matter which category describes you, whether the difficulties lie ahead or behind, Woman hopes you will share your words of comfort, inspiration, and strength at our booth, located at the finish line at this year’s Making Strides walk on City Island. (For more information about the walk, see page 14)

Comments written on Woman’s message boards at last year’s Making Strides Walk... Because my superhero is my mom! She is the strongest person I know! 6 1/2 yr. survivor! Love her. -Jen In honor of my mom-25+ years cancer free. To all the survivors, fighters & to the ones we lost. -Sherry I walked for everyone I love and will do it next year! -Chris I’m a 2 time survivor: 2008 & 2015 - Vickie I’ve known you for almost 20 yrs. Your family is my family. Wish you the best. Keep fighting and never stop! Because I want a CURE! Never give up! -Tracy Mom & I are SURVIVORS -Sharon God wants me here. I have a purpose to fulfill. -Stacy For all the beautiful people who survived. Jess - still think of you every day! -Linda Keep smiling! You can do it. Be brave and have hope & faith. -Katie I am here supporting the stongest woman and breast cancer survivor I know. You beat cancer Nemo! I love you! - Jiffy For all my friends and family I do this for you. To celebrate my Aunt Lilly, her laughter and her fight. -Denise SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2016 Woman Newspapers

You inherited Mom’s IRA, now what? by jacqueline a. kelly, attorney at law

When coping with the loss of a loved one, the issue of what to do with an inheritance is not always clear. In particular, there can be some uncertainty as to what to do with an Individual Retirement Account (IRA) when the owner dies. There are some factors that a beneficiary of the IRA needs to know in order to avoid paying higher taxes than necessary. A traditional Individual Retirement Account (IRA) is an account that is set up with a person’s (the owner’s) retirement money. The account has a beneficiary designation that names a beneficiary to receive the funds upon death of the owner. The account grows free of income tax until withdraws are made during the owner’s lifetime. The money that goes into an IRA is called “pre-tax” money, which means that the owner does not pay income tax on the money when initially deposited. However, when the owner withdraws funds or eventually dies, the income taxes must be paid. In the event of the owner’s death, there are options available to the beneficiary, such as an inherited IRA, so that the income taxes continue to be deferred. An inherited IRA is sometimes called a “stretch” IRA because the income taxes may be stretched over the beneficiary’s lifetime

rather than paid up front in a lump sum. Recently, I spoke with a woman named Carol, who revealed that she was a beneficiary of her mom’s IRA worth about $80,000. Unfortunately, Carol’s phone call to me came after she made the decision to cash out her mother’s IRA. As a result of cashing out the IRA in full, Carol ending up paying about $15,000 of income taxes. Had Carol called me

before cashing out her mother’s IRA, we would have discussed Carol’s other options, such as establishing an inherited IRA account. The beneficiary of an inherited IRA is able to delay withdrawing the entire account at once, which avoids paying higher income taxes. With an inherited IRA, the beneficiary has the option of withdrawing the funds over a period of time, which allows the funds to be invested and grow

during that time. Another important consideration for beneficiaries of IRAs is the law regarding spousal rollovers. If Carol had been a widow of the IRA owner rather than a daughter, she would have had the option to “roll over” her deceased spouse’s IRA into her own account. This “spousal rollover” option is only available to widows/widowers, but it can allow the widow/widower to receive significant tax benefits. This option is similar to the inherited or “stretch” IRA because the widow/widower is able to defer paying the income taxes. The laws regarding inherited IRAs are complicated. In order to ensure that beneficiaries of the IRAs are advised of all options, I encourage my clients to meet with their financial advisor and/or accountant in addition to myself before taking any action. Otherwise, unnecessary taxes may be incurred. Jan L Brown and Associates is a law firm founded in 1993 to help families. The firm has over 44 years of combined experience and practices exclusively in the areas of estate planning, probate and elder law. Estate planning includes Wills, Powers of Attorneys, Living Wills, Trusts, Tax Planning, Special Needs Trusts and Guardianships. Elder law addresses the legal issues of seniors, their families and those who care for them including obtaining benefits, such as Medicare, Medicaid and VA benefits and protecting assets from nursing home care costs. The information presented is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as legal advice as every client and situation is different and requires specific review and analysis. If you would like an appointment, please call (717) 541- 5550.

The Law Office for Older Persons Their Families

Jan L. Brown & Associates

THERE IS STILL TIME TO BE INCLUDED IN THE 2017 GUIDE!

Attorneys-at-Law

Jan L. Brown, Esq.

Practice Exclusively In: •E state Planning & Probate: Wills, Trusts, Powers of Attorney, Tax Planning, Special Needs Trusts

Jacqueline Kelly, Esq. CELA Certified Elder Law Attorney

•E lder Law: Protecting Assets From Nursing Home Costs, Qualifying for Benefits, Incapacity Planning

845 Sir Thomas Court, Harrisburg 17109

(717) 541-5550 www.janbrownlaw.com

Christa Aplin, Esq.

Members of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys

Woman Newspapers SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2015

The information & resource guide for healthy caregiving

CentralPA.COM Tina Rinehart, Dauphin County Senior Account Executive 717.421.3247 tinarinehart@pressandjournal.com Lauren Kanovich, Cumberland County Account Executive 717.678.4826 laurenkanovich@pressandjournal.com

Charitable bequests live on by bill wood, executive director of habitat for humanity, greater hbg. area

Chances are high that you have volunteered with or donated to a charity you believe in at least once in your lifetime (hopefully more). But have you considered how you can have a positive, lasting impact on the cause that speaks so passionately to your heart, even

after you are gone? Building charitable giving into your estate plan is one of the best ways to show your commitment to your community, and to leave a lasting legacy. Imagine playing a role in a child’s adoption, or helping someone achieve the dream of home ownership, for years or even decades after you have been laid to rest. Facing our own mortality is never easy, but knowing you can benefit others and leave a lasting legacy of compassion and community eases the burden as we begin to plan for the inevitable. Planned giving, sometimes referred to as gift planning, is defined as a method of supporting non-profits and charities that enables philanthropic individuals or donors to make larger gifts than they could make from their income. While some planned gifts provide a life-long

income to the donor, others use estate and tax planning techniques to provide for charity and other heirs in ways that maximize the gift and/or minimize its impact on the donor’s estate. To make a charitable bequest, you need a current will or revocable living trust. Your gift can be made as a percentage of your estate. Or you can make a specific bequest by giving a certain amount of cash, securities or property. After your lifetime, the charity of your choosing receives your gift. What better way to continue to make an impact on the causes that matter most to you than to include them in your will. Planned giving also sets an example for future generations of your family, demonstrating your dedication to philanthropy and volunteerism. Imagine a child going to sleep in a safe, decent, affordable home, funded in part through a gift left by your estate. I cannot think of anything better to leave behind. Vision: A world where everyone has a decent place to live. Our Mission statement: Seeking to put God’s love into action, Habitat for Humanity brings people together to build homes, communities and hope. To be part of our non profit community or in-kind donations of skilled labor please contact us at (717) 545-7299. Also, see our website: harrisburghabitat.org

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Help us build a better world. SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2016 Woman Newspapers

Exploring opportunities, overcoming stereotypes by ellen kyzer, mpa, ceo, girl scouts in the heart of pennsylvania

More than ever before girls’ curiosity in exploring the fields of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) are peaking; however, women continue to be underrepresented in these fields. Despite the fact that 74% of high school girls say they are interested in the fields and subjects of STEM, only 20% of young women intend to major in a STEM field. Why? Studies have shown that girls lose interest in math and science during middle school. The stereotype that boys excel at STEM subjects and girls struggle still exists today. This belief is often internalized by girls and self-doubt begins to grow. 57% of girls say that if they went into a STEM career, they’d have to work harder than a man just to be taken seriously. How do we stop this barrier? We support girls! Girls want to learn more about coding, engineering structures, and conceptualizing robotics and they need us to help make it happen. We need to provide

the opportunities where girls can benefit from STEM programs. We need to overcome the stereotypes and encourage their curiosity. We need to develop programs for hands-on, inquiry based learning and connect girls with women role models in the STEM field. We have to give them the opportunities to grow important STEM skills; such as, building and design, innovative problem solving, research, and teamwork. STEM programs allow girls to investigate, fail, and discover successful solutions in a safe and supportive environment. Adult leaders can provide support with encouragement to help overcome self-doubt, which can potentially obstruct a successful and rewarding career. Join me in encouraging girls to discover new and exciting STEM avenues today to help grow their tomorrow. Girl Scouts offers a wide variety of programs that brighten a girl’s future in a safe, positive and supportive space where she can interact with peers and role models. For more information about the Girl Scouts, please visit, www. gshpa.org or call 800.692.7816.

Keep Kids in Our Communities. Become a Foster Parent.

You can help your child to succeed by danielle bonham

Learn more, call Danielle at

717-657-2073 x38

makeadifferenceathome.com 8

Woman Newspapers SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2016

Transitioning from summer back to school is a tough time for kids. Parents, guardians, and caregivers play a huge role in easing this transition and continually supporting a child throughout the school year. Whether you have your own children, grandchildren, foster child, or child with special needs there are many things you can do to help a child succeed. Open communication is key! This means communicating with your child and with the school. Daily conversations with your child are imperative to know what is going on, gain insight, and to assess any stress or anxieties they may be having. Spend quality one-on-one time with your child to talk about what they are learning, their friends, activities, etc. Having communication with teachers and or guidance counselors is important too. Attend school meetings and be involved! Homework time can be stressful for not only the child, but parents as well. Remember to keep a positive attitude and to be engaged

and available. Having a set time and place to complete homework can help maintain structure. Distractions should also be removed (TV off and cell phone away) Caregivers can schedule their own “homework” to be done during this time as well, such as paying bills or reading a book. Make sure you use plenty of positive praise with your child! Structure is important for all children, but especially for children who might struggle with focus and attention. General routines that include a bedtime can help ease transitions and help your child to feel secure. Children do better and succeed more when a parent/caregiver is involved! Pennsylvania Mentor is a leading private Therapeutic Foster Care Agency. For more information on how you could become a foster parent contact Danielle at 717-657-2073 x38 or visit MakeADifferenceAtHome.com

Everyday could be a season of thankfulness and gratitude submitted by the salvation army

As the green leaves begin to change into the glorious golden yellow, red and caramel colors of fall, take a minute to listen. The wind swirls the leaves in an astonishing dance. Be still and be thankful. Autumn just has a pretty ring to it. Sweaters, fireplaces warming the house and Thanksgiving just around the corner can be a lovely thought. We should be thankful all year for the small things and the big things. The beautiful sunrises and glorious sunsets, a cup of coffee and conversation with your spouse, children playing outside, work, weekends, Monday mornings. We as a society don’t take the time to step back and take in our surroundings and well, just be still. Being thankful can strengthen a relationship, reduce stressfulness and heal the soul. Being steeped in gratitude is good for your mental and physical health; make a house a home, a church a community. Our country can be a wonderful source of gratitude as well. We are all busy, nonetheless, if we heed the advice of taking time to slow down and be aware of our surroundings wonderful things can happen. When was the last time you were aware of the importance of a truly deep

breath in and slow exhale out totally aware of your surroundings? Have you ever been still? Once you practice the art of gratitude you might begin to see the simple things that can bring delight to an otherwise pressuring day. Studies show people who are mindfully grateful show deeper compassion to others sleep better and even have stronger immune systems. Journaling positive thoughts vs. the negative can be a great source of looking inside, finding your center and for goodness sakes, give up perfection – its tiring to be perfect. Do yourself a favor, take a moment, be still, look at the sunset, listen to the rain and experience nothingness. Be thankful and acknowledge everything you receive. Regardless of your circumstance be grateful for your blessings. If you are able to help please donate to any of our 6 retail locations listed in our ad. The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination. Call (717) 541-0203 to donate today.

Doing The Most Good

See success stories at www.salvationsarmy.org to see how your donations help those in need of food, shelter and our drug and alcohol rehabilitation programs.

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SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2016 Woman Newspapers

Taking care of your mental health by christopher meehan, director of development, catholic charities

Life is really difficult sometimes. Sometimes it’s your job or a lack of employment. Sometimes it’s problems with your spouse or your kids. Sometimes it’s your personal finances. Or maybe it’s a physical ailment, whether it’s something minor or a serious health condition that none of us want to face. Or maybe you’re faced with someone you love having to deal with their own situation. You want to help, but by doing so, you find yourself stressed like never before. Whatever it is, sometimes life isn’t easy. And sometimes the stress in your life has you at your breaking point, and you just don’t know what to do. Everyone at some point in life experiences what seem to be overwhelming difficulties. Regardless of the cause of this difficulty, these feelings of helplessness need to be addressed. If not, the results could be devastating. Behavioral health issues can lead to declining physical health, job loss, divorce, broken families, physical abuse, drug or alcohol abuse, even suicide. Fortunately, there is help available. In

many cases, counseling services from a skilled therapist can prove extremely valuable by assisting individuals in finding alternatives and solutions to confusing and complex personal issues. The help of a professional counselor can be a valuable resource for individuals, couples, and families. Skilled therapists can assist individuals and families as they navigate their way through an array of issues, untangle their emotions, and identify and strengthen positive behaviors. The demands of life can be challenging, and often times we think the answer is simply to “tough it out.” While that sounds like a simple answer, sometimes it’s not that easy. There is nothing wrong with talking to someone. It doesn’t make you less of a person, and it doesn’t mean you’re weak. In fact, seeking help can be the first (and smartest) thing you can do to getting your marriage, your family, your job (i.e., your life) back on track. Help is available for individuals, couples, or families. All information will be strictly confidential. For more information, contact a counselor office today. Catholic Charities offers help, hope and support to thousands of individuals and families, providing social services to people of all faiths. Our mission is rooted in our commitment to support families and children in need, regardless of faith. Please contact us at 717-657-4804.

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Woman Newspapers SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2016

Catholic Charities Diocese of Harrisburg, PA

PROVIDING

HELP.

CREATING

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Behavioral Health Counseling Residential Programs Immigration and Refugee Services Youth And Family Services f

717-657-4804 WWW.CCHBG.ORG

Helping hands by paige faulk, lsw, family & community liaison, the middletown home

When I first moved to Central PA I was interested in doing volunteer work in my new community. I found a local organization where volunteers, many of whom are cancer survivors, dedicate their time to helping individuals living with cancer and their caregivers. We helped clients in a myriad of ways: transported them to/from their doctor appointments; prepared homemade meals; delivered “sunshine bags” (gift bags filled with goodies); assisted with light housekeeping chores; and were available to lend an ear when someone simply needed to share their story. I had the honor and privilege to transport numerous individuals to their doctor appointments over the course of a few years. It was a life-changing experience for me. Like many non-profit organizations, Heartsn-Hands, the organization I volunteered with, started with a few like-minded people and quickly grew to include many more volunteers and add more services. There will always be a great need in the community for older adults and patients undergoing treatment to obtain transportation to their doctor appointments. Mary Lank, the

founder of Hearts-n-Hands, found that many older cancer patients were refusing treatments because it was a burden to find reliable transportation to appointments. Many cancer patients need weekly, or sometimes daily treatment. If they don’t have a car or family members who can help, or if they are simply too ill to drive, a local volunteer organization can often be a lifesaver. A volunteer job such as driving cancer patients to appointments is very fulfilling and deeply personal. Many volunteer drivers have had a family member or have themselves relied on such services while undergoing treatments. If you know of someone who may benefit from Heartsn-Hands services, or if you are interested in volunteering, please contact Hearts-n-Hands at: 717-918-4790.

MY SUCCESS STORY by Monique Douglass

Becoming alive When I was a little girl I used to play with dolls; I even had a dollhouse and it was perfect inside. The walls were painted, the bathroom was perfect, the lawn flowers never died. As time went on, I realized I didn’t live in a metal house with perfect little plastic people. I lived in a world that was, and still is, constantly changing. I realized, like me, there are many abused and battered women who do not have a voice. Based on this reality, and the burning desire in my heart, I was inspired to write a book: “From Ghetto to Glory” Here is an excerpt from my book: “You know, ever since Sookie’s been trying to tell this story, now going on five years, it seems like a part of her gets really crazy inside. It’s like she’s walking around crying out, but no one can hear her. And it’s no subtle cry, but a loud scream. Because each time another day goes by, a part of her seems to close up and almost die, fearing that she’s another step closer to not telling this story. She tries to reassure that ol’ broken down part of her that everything is going to be okay. She tries to say that this time God’s timing seems to be no less than perfect. But that part, that voice in her, just keeps hollerin’, and so she’s asking you all to

stick with her on the tellin’ part. Stick with her, or else she’s sure to go deaf from so much of her own self-hollerin’.” The second part of my life took a journey that shook me to the core of my bones. Being homeless with my children, overcoming physical abuse from my daughter’s father, death and losing family. My heart was broken along the way and as I tried to pick up the pieces to my life and wondering how they even slipped away because educated women don’t get abused, right? Well, it can happen to anyone. Many women are hiding behind smiles, suits, and expensive homes while living in a secret hell. In the forest I lost my self-esteem. There were no bread crumbs to lead me back to myself and at a point when I thought I was going to give up finally, I prayed, ‘HELP!’ (Joyce Meyer taught me that). Then I started praying the Prayer of Jabez, The Lord’s Prayer, and I hung on tighter because my insides starting feeling alive. I pushed forward. I got my kids out of the motel. I found a job in a state that I knew nothing about. I made my own bread crumbs. The icing on the cake was Dress for Success South Central PA. I never really liked to try on clothes. I was just not encouraged to really even engage in the feminine side of myself but, like I said, my insides were being remolded. The women from DFS not only ministered to my flesh and made me look good, they ministered

to my spirit and that, my friend, is something you can’t put words to. Thank you will never be enough. When I looked in the mirror at DFS, I saw a princess; the princess my grandmother taught me that I was. Butterflies jumped inside of me. I was alive! My children, alive! And a new start! I can’t really put my finger on how to give a hug by using words but if I could I’d hug EVERYONE for helping to change my life and propel me into my future. All things are possible, never forget this.

MY SUCCESS STORY is a regular feature sponsored by

AND

Monique Douglass before & after

DRESS FOR SUCCESS South Central PA Harrisburg 717-232-1333 York 717-764-3330 Mobile 717-232-1333 ext. 106 southcentralpa@dressforsuccess.org To learn more about upcoming events: southcentralpa.dressforsuccess.org The mission of Dress for Success South Central PA is to empower women to achieve economic independence by providing a network of support, professional attire and development tools to help women thrive in work and in life.

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hat a year it has been! First, I integrated holistic medicine into my daily life with the guidance of a naturopathic physician. Next, I worked with a personal trainer and began exercising again. Now, I’ve come to the final part of my three-phase wellness odyssey: The Sugar Detox. The closest I’ve come to a detox was when I undertook a self-imposed, unsupervised seven-day weight loss fast many years ago. I still remember the withdrawal symptoms, although admittedly they were largely psychological. Here’s what happened during my first short-lived fasting attempt: Let’s just say there’s a certain food item I enjoyed. I liked it, but I’d never actually craved it. Unfortunately, following the knowledge I wasn’t allowed to eat that food anymore came the obsession that I NEEDED to eat it. I actually had withdrawal symptoms: headache, abdominal pain, and the feeling I had to lie down to rest my poor weakened and deprived body. That seven-day fast lasted a grand total of three hours. Undeterred, I bravely carried my earlier detox baggage with me into my new sugar detox and figured what the heck! It sounded like a healthy thing to do and this time I wasn’t going it alone. The first week of my new program was devoted to orientation where it was all clearly laid out for us: If a food was refined in any way, it was prohibited. A quote in the beginning of the program cookbook said it all: “If it’s popped, puffed, flaked, floured, shredded or instant, it’s been refined.” No coconut flakes? No shredded cheese? No popcorn at the movies?!? Right off the bat, the list of “NO” foods was intimidating and included a few surprises. Vegetable oil, a staple in my kitchen, is highly processed. Cereal (even bran-type), granola (how much more can we hear about how healthy granola is?), couscous (isn’t that always served with loads of vegetables mixed in?), oats, rice cakes and even quinoa was limited. Fruits were limited. We weren’t allowed any artificial sweeteners or anything that was labeled no fat or low fat. It was all about whole, natural foods. And thank goodness there was no calorie counting involved. Despite some trepidation that too much was going to be taken away, I was excited about the new kinds of foods being introduced into my diet. I swapped out the vegetable oil for ghee, a clarified butter that contains milk fat, but not butter fat. I added unfamiliar things to my meals like beef gelatin, brewer’s yeast and chia seeds. I traded my all purpose enriched bleached presifted flour (enriched and bleached = refined) for arrowroot flour, which has one ingredient: arrowroot. A bonus of the program was that we could use all the cinnamon we wanted and could have any nut except cashews and peanuts. I consider myself a “Plain Jane” foodie (I don’t even like ketchup on my burgers or dressing on my salad) so imagine my surprise when when veggie smoothies became a delicious addition to my regimen. I always assumed those ghastly green smoothies had to taste gross. Wrong! Using recipes from a juicing book to create my own combinations, I keep coming up with new favorites. So far the chart topper includes kale, fresh parsley, carrot, grape tomatoes, broccoli, strawberries, cinnamon and something no smoothie of mine is complete without - coconut milk. Part of my detox education centered on the various pseudonyms for sugar in ingredient lists and how multiple sweeteners can be listed in order to camouflage the fact that there are more sweeteners in a product than anything other single ingredient. I found a bag of pretzels (yes, I even scrutinize pretzels) that I was surprised to find contained high fructose corn syrup, the worst of the worst refined sugars and to be avoided at all costs. My fellow detox-ees were shown examples of deceptively healthy-looking foods and drinks with tag words touting “lean” and “natural.” Someone in the class pointed out that their daily “healthy” green drink (the label said so!) actually contained as much sugar as a king-size candy bar. Five ingredients or less. That was what we were told to look for on food labels. During that first week, I was mildly light-headed at times. My first thought was I must need more sugar, or more protein. I made a few adjustments, but I wasn’t overly concerned - this was a big change for my body after all. Then, toward the end of the first week, I almost passed out. I took my blood pressure and it was unusually low, so the next day, I skipped the blood pressure meds (a 5 mg pill) and I felt much better that same day. I skipped my meds again the following day and was feeling better. Let me state for the record that I’m not condoning adjusting medication without a doctor’s input, I’m only sharing what I did. I had a blood pressure cuff at home and I monitored it throughout the early days and continued to check it a few times a day for the next week. I don’t check my pressure every day any longer, but am pleased to announce that my average reading since January has been unexceptional 126/74. Having a healthy lifestyle is often about trial and error, and finding out what works for you – and you alone. I’m not a medical expert and I’m not telling you to throw away what you believe to be true. I see and believe things will be better and more sustainable for me going forward by incorporating much of what I’ve experimented with. How’s that for wellness success! 12

Woman Newspapers SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2016

Breast cancer, chemo, and caring for your eyes by gary s. kirman, o.d.

For generations, we’ve offered state-of-the-art optometric care. Warmly Welcoming New Patients! ven though the times have changed, at Kirman Eye, one thing remains constant — dedication to our patients’ eye health while providing advanced eyewear solutions. We offer comprehensive primary eye care for all ages. Whether you need screening for macular degeneration, are being fitted for specialty contact lenses or are choosing from more than 900 frames in our optical boutique, you can trust Kirman Eye.

Celebrating 58 years of service to our community!

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(717) 566-3216 29 West Main Street Hummelstown, PA 17036

www.kirmaneye.com

Natural options can assist in prevention by paget keller rhee, owner, hmc specialist

The most common type of breast cancer in America today is ER+ (estrogen receptor positive cancer). This cancer has been proven medically to have a hormonal component to it. Recent studies show pre-menopausal women may have a higher risk of cancer then once thought. Tamoxifen or other prescribed drugs may eliminate estrogen from their body. These women may suffer side effects (hot flashes, mood swings, depression, thinning bones, lack of libido etc.) It is not high estrogen that causes cancer but a lack of progesterone which is the other hormone that is meant to balance out the effects of estrogen and to help prevent female related cancers. Many women who test positive for the BRACA gene never get breast cancer and many women with breast cancer test negative for this gene. Three easy tips that offer hope: 1) Raise natural progesterone levels According to a recent study women with ER+ breast cancer had very low levels of progesterone and a very poor ratio of estrogen to progesterone. Progesterone can balance out

the over- stimulatory effects of estrogen on the breast which may help in preventing breast cancer. A natural topical progesterone cream may decrease PMS and menopausal symptoms that deal with weight, mood and sleep! 2) Increase your intake of cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, brussel sprouts, cabbage, kale, and arugula) These special vegetables aid the liver and functioning better to break down excess estrogens. They may also assist in stopping cell division and are a good part of a healthy daily meal lifestyle. 3) Become more “insulin sensitive” to prevent cancerous cells from forming Eating too many refined carbohydrates/ sugars causes us to become “insulin resistant” so sugar cannot get into our cells for energy and we store most of it as fat. Over time this can cause specifically the breast cells to genetically mutate to try to adapt to this “insulin resistance” causing cancerous cells. How to decrease “insulin resistance”: • Lose weight and decrease the size of fat cells. • Decrease refined carbohydrates, caffeine and alcohol in your diet for as little as 30 days. • Daily relaxation therapy (as little as 20 min.) will decrease stress hormones which are always tied to “insulin resistance” as well.

Millions of people each year endure chemotherapy for the treatment and cure of their cancer. Although chemotherapy is highly effective at treating and killing many cancers, it does not come without side effects. As you may know, chemotherapy suppresses your body’s immune system while killing the cancer cells. Your eyes are more susceptible to infections when your resistance is low due to a suppressed immune system. Bacterial conjunctivitis is more of a nuisance, creating lots of goopy discharge from your eyes and blurring of your vision. However, it is not sight threatening and can be successfully treated using antibiotic eye drops. Viral eye infections (Shingles and the cold sore virus) on the other hand, have the potential to cause permanent vision disturbance if not treated promptly and aggressively. Signs of viral eye infection include significant eye pain, extra light sensitivity, and blurred vision. Never ignore symptoms creating vision disturbance or eye pain. Even if you are not feeling well, insist on seeing your doctor promptly. Be an advocate for yourself or a loved one if there is any vision disturbance while in or out of the hospital. Viral eye infections can be successfully treated with antiviral eye drops and

oral medications. Another common problem is Dry Eye. Post chemotherapy hormonal treatment may also lead to Dry Eye. Dry Eye is the main cause of fluctuating vision and tired eyes. The constant stinging and burning, the off and on blurring of your vision, and sometimes severe stabbing pain in your eyes only adds insult to injury while you are enduring other physical side effects of chemotherapy. The good news is that Dry Eye can be very successfully treated. Your eye care specialist will prescribe a therapy regiment that may include one or several of the following treatments. Use of over the counter lubricant eye drops is very common. Some of the drops are the same consistency of your tears while other drops have more the consistency of a gel. Ointments and warm moist compresses may also be used to sooth extremely dry eyes. There are prescription drops that help your lids produce more tears and prescription drops that are extra long lasting lubricants for the eye. Miniature plugs can be placed into your tear ducts to help maintain more of your natural tears on the eyes. Inserting the miniature plugs is a painless in-office procedure that only takes about fifteen minutes. Seek treatment from your optometrist or ophthalmologist to treat these diseases. Remember, annual eye exams are important to maintain healthy eyes and good vision.

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SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2016 Woman Newspapers

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Woman Newspapers SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2016

Mammogram myths and misunderstandings by colleen curcio, r. t. (r)(m) regional director of mammography at ella health

The mammogram is one of the most important diagnostic tests a woman can get after age 40. It can detect cancer at its earliest stages, long before there are any symptoms. And yet, too often, women put off this life saving exam because of misconceptions about the exam and breast cancer. Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a good time to address those concerns and to encourage more women to take this important step to care for their health. Myth: Mammograms prevent or stop breast cancer. Truth: Mammograms help to detect breast cancer at its earliest stages so that it can be treated. Myth: Mammograms are ineffective. Truth: Mammograms can help find lumps two to three years before a woman or her health care provider can feel them. Myth: I don’t have any symptoms of breast cancer, so I don’t need a mammogram. Truth: Women should get a mammogram if they are experiencing symptoms of breast cancer such as a lump, unusual discharge,

redness or rippling of the skin. The purpose of a screening mammogram, however, is to diagnose cancer long before those symptoms appear. Myth: I have no family history of breast cancer, so I don’t need a mammogram. Truth: Although breast cancer has been linked to certain genes, 70 – 80% of women diagnosed with breast cancer have no history of the disease in their family. Myth: A mammogram exposes women to unsafe levels of radiation. Truth: A mammogram involves only a tiny amount of radiation. The exams are highly regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to ensure that they are safe.

Myth: I need a referral from my doctor to get a mammogram. Truth: You do not need a referral or a prescription to get a screening mammogram, although women are encouraged to talk with their physician about the exam and the results are generally shared with a woman’s physician. Screening mammograms are generally covered by health insurance. Myth: It doesn’t matter who reads the images. Truth: You will get the best results when your mammogram is read by a radiologist who specializes in women’s breast health and who is board-certified and fellowship-trained. Myth: The kind of mammogram you get doesn’t matter.

Truth: There is a new kind of exam, a 3D mammogram, that has improved the detection of invasive breast cancer by 40%. It increases detection by 50% for women with dense breast tissue. This exam also reduces false call-backs by up to 41%. It takes about the same time as a conventional mammogram, but provides physicians with more information. Myth: A mammogram is always a painful procedure. Truth: A mammogram may feel awkward, and there is pressure with the compression. However, it should not hurt. Talk with your mammo tech if you are anxious about the exam. Myth: You can’t get screened if you have breast implants. Truth: Women with breast implants should have regular mammograms. A 3D mammogram is like a conventional mammogram. The exam may require special positioning or additional images, but it is important for women to monitor their health regularly. Ella Health is a woman’s care provider offering 3D mammography in a spa-like setting featuring cozy robes, on-time appointments and quick results. Colleen Curcio, who manages Ella centers in Langhorne, PA, Lemoyne, PA and Toms River, NJ, holds a license in radiology and mammography technology from the American Registry of Radiological Technologists and received training from Overlook Hospital School of Radiology in Summit, NJ.

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SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2016 Woman Newspapers

had a health scare just before this column was due. A routine physical revealed a low white blood cell count. I’d had a low white blood cell count last year, too. This number was even lower. White blood cells fight off infections. I worried that my immune system was compromised, something that can happen, in small percentages, among those of us who have had strong chemotherapies and radiation. This blood cell stuff scared me to the marrow, which also happens to be where white blood cells are made. My negative thoughts gathered in their situation room, forecasted an immune system shut down, and sent out a Worst Case Scenario Alert. I had a panic attack. Jeez, it’s not like I could run to the toilet, stick my finger down my throat, and throw up the chemo and radiation I had seven years ago! It’s too late! Besides, that chemo and radiation was the cure; it’s the reason I’m still here. I did not look like a kick-ass breast cancer survivor on the day that I met with my trusted and gifted internal medicine goddess, Dr. Serna. I fidgeted on the exam table, nervous as a chicken, ready for fight or flight. The table’s paper crackled beneath me when I reached to peck a tissue from my purse. The late summer sun filtered through the window’s silver blinds, a bird’s eye view of the freeway. I watched hundreds of cars racing by, like anxious thoughts. The door opened, and Dr. Serna walked in. Her authoritative presence always calms me. She’s tall and thin, and I can never remember to ask if she runs marathons. She’s much younger than me, which is how I like my doctors now that I’m over fifty. Dr. Serna set her laptop on the counter, pushed her wavy pony-tailed hair away from her face, looked at the computer screen and said, “Okay, so we have your labs back, and everything looks good, except for the white blood count, right?” I sniffed and said, “Uh-huh.” Dr. Serna, said, “You’re worrying, Deb. Don’t worry! You’re normally on the low side, and you’re healthy. We’ll repeat the test in two weeks. I’m sure that number will be higher, okay?” I said, “But, Dr. Serna, 3.7 is really low,” while I dabbed the crumpled Kleenex on my

Woman Newspapers SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2015

soon-to-be-X’d-out eyes. Dr. Serna leaned over and put her hand on my arm, looked at me over the top of her wire-rimmed glasses and said, “Deb, I’m not worried, so I don’t want you to worry. We’ll repeat the labs, and your number will be higher, okay?” “You know I’m a bit of a worrier,” I said, and blew my nose. UNDERSTATEMENT! I am the reigning Queen of Negative Anticipation! Super Anxiety Woman! I’ve catastrophized all of my molehills into mountains! I’ve even asked Jesus, “But, Sir, what if my faith is SMALLER than a mustard seed?” Dr. Serna picked up and closed her computer and said, “I know you’re going to worry, so I’m giving you an assignment: ask your cancer team to FAX me all of your previous labs. That will give us solid information. Information will make you feel better.” And she left the room. Information! That’s right!! I function much better with solid information. So I called medical records and they rounded up my labs from 2010 to present, and guess what? The labs showed a consistently low white blood count over five years - good news! But I was still anxious and worried. I waited out the days until I could get my labs done. Waiting: the haven for worry. I tried to distract myself from all of my “what if thoughts.” On some days I reorganized closets, cabinets, and drawers. I actually used my iron and ironing board. On other days I sat with all of my worried thoughts. It was a difficult two weeks. The new labs showed a perfectly normal 6.7 white blood cell count. A great wave of relief washed over my whole being. In its wake, I realized I don’t want to wear the Super Anxiety Woman cape anymore—it’s exhausting. So I asked for help. I’ve started working with a recommended therapist, and I’ve found a daily meditation app called Headspace. I am still a kick-ass survivor. This is how we survive.

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Breast cancer and the benefits of massage

The offer circle may be changed the same way as in any other template. Double click on it, select your offer by clicking on it, click "Apply" at the bottom and then click "OK" to close the inspector. To remove the address for in-studio use, just drag the contact information boxes off the template onto the gray area.

Any type of massage that involves strong pressure, should NOT be used if you are The blue line around the ad is the bleed line. The default bleed is set to .125" undergoing chemotherapy and radiation. Studies have shown that massage seems If your adand has a different bleed, or Ifnoyou’re bleed, change or remove the bleed as currently undergoing radiation, to offer both physical emotional benefits follows: your massage therapist should avoid touching for women with breast cancer. In one study, any sensitive skin in the treatment area. If you massage therapy and progressive muscle have Settings" had lymph nodes theof massage Double theinred link removed, at the top the page. relaxation1) therapy were click compared 58 "Document therapist should only use very light touch on women with stage I and II breast cancer. Both arm and area around thethe ad has a groups reported feelingthe lessinspector anxious. box opensyour 2) When setaffected the bleed andthetrim to 0. If underarm. Additionally, the massage group also different bleed amount, type it into the bleed box. If you have arm lymphedema, your arm reported feeling less depressed, showed and underarm area should be treated by a increased levels of a brain chemical called Click "Ok" anda close the window. specially certified massage therapist, especially dopamine,3)which helps produce feeling of for lymphedema, called manual lymphatic well-being, and experienced an increase in ads cells are that on an so we can check layouts. Please allow 24 drainage. protectiveThese white blood helpapproval boost the loop Source: breastcancer.org. with immune system killer your cells) from hours(called after natural finishing ad for proof and approval.Reprinted Ads submitted on Friday the first towill the last of the study. beday proofed and returned by permission. end of day the following Monday. If you have breast cancer and are interested in finding a massage therapist, ask your surgeon Special instructions for studios with a license#: or oncologist for recommendations. Let your massage therapist know about your diagnosis, treatment,The and anystand-alone symptoms you may have. license field is for use by North Massage can be very helpful. But it has the Carolina studios. NC studios should remove the potential to cause harm. auto-fill license# behind the studio name. All other Remember: If you’ve just had breast surgery, should studios with a you license# should remove the stand-alone lie on your back for a massage until your doctor license# field. decides it is safe for you to lie on your stomach.

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Americans want cancer cure investment As divisive as American politics can be, most Americans want their next president to pursue cancerstudio cures, based on the-results name license# of a survey conducted by the Leukemia & phone Lymphoma Society (LLS). street address According to the websitesurvey, Finding Cancer Cures, 82 percent of Americans polled want the next president of the United States to reinvest in Vice President Biden’s Moonshot to End Cancer initiative. Support for the Moonshot program was favored by a majority of those who declared themselves Democrats (90 percent), Republicans (73 percent) and independents (77 percent). In addition, 42 percent of the survey respondents said the proposed $1 billion in funding for the moonshot cancer project isn’t enough. Those aged 55 years and older were more inclined than younger respondents to think more money is needed (54 percent versus 38 percent), as were those who selfidentified as Republicans (45 percent) and independents (46 percent), compared with Democrats (40 percent). The respondents who supported additional funding were closely divided on the amount needed: 32 percent stated that the investment should be $2-$5 billion, 34 percent said $6-$10 billion and 34 percent said they would allocate

an additional $10 billion for the moonshot project. The new survey from LLS, a nonprofit organization dedicated to fighting blood cancers, is the most comprehensive analysis to date of Americans’ attitudes toward efforts to eliminate cancer and the progress that has been made. LLS funds research to advance therapies, works to ensure access to treatments and serves as the leading source of blood cancer information and support. A majority of respondents (60 percent) said they want research dollars invested in cures, while 29 percent said researchers should focus on developing better ways to detect cancer early. Another 12 percent said that research priorities should focus on developing better drugs. A majority of respondents said they were optimistic that a cancer cure will be found within the next 20 years, and nearly half predicted a cancer cure within 10 years. Source: NewsUSA. Please visit lls.org for more information.

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SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2016 Woman Newspapers

Jody Ashley figured her family history of breast and ovarian cancer didn’t bode well for her. Several female members of her family, including her 91-year-old mom who’s a survivor of stage 4 ovarian cancer, have battled the cancers with varying degrees of success. So the decision to undergo genetic testing to screen for the gene mutation most commonly associated with breast and ovarian cancer seemed like a smart choice. Even with the history, the 59-year-old York resident thought she was just being careful. “Lo and behold I got the call,” she said. That call about seven years ago told Ashley she tested positive for a BRCA mutation in the one of the genes that increases a woman’s lifetime risk of developing breast and/or ovarian cancer. She opted for a hysterectomy soon after the testing but held off on a decision about a mastectomy. Instead, Ashley stepped up her medical monitoring, getting her breasts checked at least three times a year with a mammogram, MRI or some other medical check up. After looking into the specifics of a double mastectomy and implants, Ashley wasn’t quite ready to take that leap, although she joked that she had always wanted a “boob job.” In February 2016, Ashley had a conversation with her doctor which convinced her that the procedure and its recovery was better than it had been, and she had a double mastectomy in June. Although she never had a diagnosis of cancer, Ashley felt the genetic likelihood of its occurrence made her decisions worth it. “I am glad I did it,” she said. “The burden of going to mammograms and MRIs and waiting to see if I was going to be the woman they called back was nerve-wracking.” “If I’m lucky enough to know I have this gene, how lucky am I to prevent it?” Although it’s not a medical certainty that Ashley will never develop breast cancer, she was told that she had cut her chance for it from about 87 percent to around 2 percent. “I want to be around for my daughters. They deserve to have a mother,” she said. “Once I made the decision -- that was the hardest part,” Ashley said. But the worry that was always in the back of her mind is largely erased, and she said it was definitely the right decision for her. Meagan Smith, MS, LCGC, is a Certified Genetic

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Jo d y As h ley o pted fo r a hysterecto my a n d d o u b le m astecto my af ter g enet i c test in g . “Th e burden of g o i ng to ma mmo g ra m s and M R I s a nd wai t i ng to s e e i f I wa s g o i ng to be t he wo m an t h ey c a lle d bac k wa s nerve-w rac k i ng .”

Counselor with the PinnacleHealth Cancer Institute. She said most people who pursue genetic testing do so for reasons such as Ashley’s. Sometimes people reach out to their doctor and sometimes they are recommended for testing based on personal or family history. “Typically, people who undergo genetic testing are individuals who meet (nationally established) testing guidelines and wish to use this information to help clarify their risk of developing a particular type of cancer,” Smith said. “For patients with a diagnosis of cancer, often times these patients also want to use the information to help them determine medical management and/or surgical decision-making.” Genetic testing itself involves a small blood draw or saliva sample, but Smith said ideally it starts with pre-test counseling to address the options, risks, benefits and limitations of genetic testing. Once the results are in, Smith said another discussion takes place about what they show and what could be done about that. A medical expert such as Smith can help interpret the results, which include a myriad of possible outcomes and, with those, a lot of choices on how to proceed. “There is never one option that is best for everyone,” Smith said. Women who test positive for a BRCA mutation have three main options: Increased screening, which would include MRIs, mammograms and clinical breast exams; chemoprevention, which includes medications such as Tamoxifen (in pre-menopausal women) and Evista (in postmenopausal women) have been found to decrease the risk of breast cancer by 50 percent when taken for 5 years and surgery -- prophylactic bilateral mastectomies can decrease the risk of breast cancer by more than 90 percent. Smith stressed there is no right or wrong path, and that the decision is deeply colored by each patient’s life and personal history with the disease. “Some women come in and say, ‘You know what? I don’t ever want to have to go through battling another bout of cancer.’ Or, ‘I don’t have to live through what my mother did,’ and so they will opt for the risk-reducing surgery,” she said. “Other women come in and say, ‘I just don’t think

N I T IC

G EN CA N TH E

By Lisa M

UN LOC KI N G T H E M YST ERY O F W H O W ILL G ET C

Woman Newspapers SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2016

G CAN

Maddux

CER

NES BE KEY

M ea g an S m i t h, a C ertif ied Gen etic C o uns el o r says pat i ents wan t gen etic test i ng to hel p t hem determ in e m ed ical m a na g em ent and/o r s urgical d ecis ion m ak i ng . “ T here i s never o ne op tion th at i s best for everyon e.”

I want to consider surgery until I’m faced with a reason to absolutely have to,’ and so they may go for the increased screening and may also consider chemoprevention.” “The third group are women who for one reason or another may not feel as though surgery or chemoprevention are the best options for them. For these individuals they will opt to undergo increased screening,” Smith said. Carrie, 34, (she asked that her full name not be used) tested positive for a BRCA2 mutation when she was in her early 20s. She was compelled to do the testing because of a strong family history on her mother’s side. Carrie did not take any surgical action as an immediate response to the finding, and instead chose to be vigilant in her preventative screening. “I felt confident that even though I was at an elevated risk, that should the tests find something suspicious, we would detect it very early,” she said. And that is exactly what happened. A 2014 breast MRI showed a small mass that was diagnosed as stage 0. Carrie elected to have a double mastectomy a few months later and has had had two reconstructive surgeries since. Because the mass was found at such an early stage, Carrie was given the option of a lumpectomy and medication instead of a mastectomy. But because she had already had to consider this possibility thanks to her genetic testing, Carrie knew exactly what she wanted to do. “It is certainly a very personal choice for each individual, but I remember feeling confident that should I ever discover that I had breast cancer that I would choose the route of double mastectomy,” she said. “It was never ‘if ’ it was going to happen. It was just when it was going to happen,” she said. “If you have BRCA, you’re prepared for it the way other people aren’t.” Although the ordeal and surgery has not been easy and her health concerns aren’t over, Carrie said there is a sense of relief in having faced the cancer and having made her decision. Carrie’s genetic mutation put her at a higher risk for breast cancer than for ovarian cancer, but she has not opted for a hysterectomy because she wants to keep the option of pregnancy.

“I would like to still have the possibility open to me,” she said. “I appreciate that I have some time to consider that.” Dr. Theresa Burick, DO, FACP, runs The Burick Center for Health and Wellness, a private practice in Mechanicsburg, and is a big supporter of genetic testing. She notes that some people may not even know their family history and some can certainly benefit from looking at it on a genetic level. “I think genomics is the medicine of the future,” Burick said. Genomics is an area within genetics that concerns the sequencing and analysis of an organism’s genome. In addition to its increasing use to look for mutations associated with breast and ovarian cancers, Burick said genetic testing can have implications in diagnosis, prevention or treatment of heart disease, autoimmune disease, diabetes as well as in helping predict how patients will respond to certain medications. Burick said she is particularly interested in how people’s genes affect their health, although she cautioned that genetics are not the only factor in a patient’s well-being. Just because you have a genetic risk for something doesn’t mean you’ll get it -- and just because you don’t doesn’t mean you won’t. In fact, although the odds are high for the women who test positive for the BRCA mutation, Burick and Smith noted that overall, hereditary forms of cancer still account a relatively small percentage of all breast cancer. Smith said that number is about 5-10 percent. “The important thing is to recognize that your lifestyle impacts all of this,” Burick said. Although people’s genes don’t change from when they are born, she noted that living a clean life -- little or no alcohol, tobacco, healthy food choices and exercise -- can really help lower their risk for all kinds of illnesses. Age, environment and lifestyle choices are all factors that could trigger the activation of a gene in negative way. “People like to think medicine is a crystal ball,” Burick said. And although she cautions that it is not, Burick does wholly support genetic testing as something that can be a helpful glimpse into making decisions about the future. As a primary care physician, Burick said she encourages her patients not to overlook maladies or wait too long before seeking help. She advocates preventative care and feels that 90 percent of the diagnosis is based on family history and listening to her patients. And in the case of genetic testing for BRCA, Burick said she can appreciate the decision to get tested and to take action. “Don’t do it if you’re not going to do something with it,” she said.

CA NCE R I S BOTH A B L ES S I N G AND A B U R D E N

SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2016 Woman Newspapers

Woman Newspapers SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2016

RISKS YOU CAN NOT CONTROL RACE

Breast cancer incidence rates are highest in non-Hispanic white women, followed by African American women and are lowest among Asian/Pacific Islander women. In contrast, breast cancer death rates are highest for African American women, followed by non-Hispanic white women.

GENETICS

Although most women diagnosed with breast cancer have no family history of the disease, having a relative with breast cancer does increase your risk. If you do suspect you have an inherited gene mutation, talk to your doctor about genetic counseling.

GENDER

More than 2,000 men are diagnosed with breast cancer every year. Still, breast cancer is about 100 times more common in women than men, with more than 240,000 women diagnosed in each year.

AGE

Your risk of developing breast cancer goes up as you get older. About 2 out of 3 invasive breast cancers are found in women age 55 or older. As long as you’re in good health and would be a candidate for treatment, you should continue getting mammograms.

WHAT YOU CAN CONTROL While you can’t change certain risk factors, you can do a lot to help reduce your breast cancer risk as much as possible. In a word: lifestyle. Exercise more and eat healthier, especially if you’re overweight or obese. Limit or eliminate alcohol and quit smoking. Cancer prevention isn’t fool-proof, but being responsible about your health can go a long way.

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

HORMONE THERAPY

DIET

ALCOHOL

SMOKING

WEIGHT SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2016 Woman Newspapers

The cost behind the cause ribbons by mickey minnich, founder vickie’s angel foundation

Every cause has a ribbon and every ribbon has a color. The last time I checked there were 18 different color ribbons just for cancer. Leiomyosarcoma - purple, bladder cancer – yellow (also childhood cancer), colon cancer – dark blue, breast cancer – pink, prostate cancer – light blue and the list goes on. I’m not quite sure how the ribbon became the associated sign of recognition but they are everywhere. Every ribbon represents a special group of people. These people are called patients. Many may be hurting, some are alone; hopefully most have a support system. We all know people who need help through the rough days ahead. And hopefully there is research, successful treatment and insurance coverage available. But what about the bills, co-payments, prescriptions, and living expenses that aren’t covered? On January 6, 2016, Maggie McGrath of Forbes.com wrote an article

titled, “63% of Americans Don’t Have Enough Savings To Cover A $500 Emergency.” If you had a catastrophic illness could you keep your head above water? Enter the Oncology Nurse Navigator or ONN. These nurses have been trained to orient and educate patients, families, and caregivers through the cancer healthcare system right down to assisting these patients and their families as to what resources are available to help pay the mortgage, electric bill , gas and copays and also to get them to necessary appointments, grocery store, etc. Many ONNs will go as far as to give you a cell number to answer questions on off hours. ONNs don’t seem to have a ribbon color but if they had a symbol I would pick white wings; hopeful, helpful, thoughtful nurses who will care for a person often frightened and in need of direction, clarification and support. Yes, white wings. Vickie’s Angel Foundation helps families who have difficulties paying their bills during the challenging times of fighting their cancer. To start or join a team for our Oct. 8 walk go to vickiesangelfoundation.org and support everyone, no matter what color cancer ribbon they represent.

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When your friend has breast cancer by dave yeisley, the cleaning authority of central pennsylvania

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A good friend just told you she has been diagnosed with breast cancer. Here are a few suggestions that may be help you both. First, learn to listen. She may or may not want to hear about the course of chemotherapy your neighbor went through, but if both parties are open to the idea, you could help them exchange cell phone numbers. Your friend will get information first hand and can ask vulnerable questions knowing the person on the other end of the phone has been in her shoes. Ask if you can drive her to doctor’s appointments and take notes for her. A breast cancer surgeon or oncologist appointment can be a very frightening event. As with any potential life threatening diagnosis; when the doctor begins to talk your friend may have so much going on her mind all she hears is white noise. Taking notes can be a great clarifier well after the initial appointments. Reference your notes to see what options the doctor said are available. A binder is a great idea. Normally there is more than one doctor involved. Keeping a

binder divided by subject tabs can be a quick resource. Also, include a calendar with plenty of space for appointments. Coordination is key. Your friend will probably be exhausted after the first few rounds of treatments. Ask if you can pick up prescriptions, get the mail, pick up items at the grocery store, or walk her dog. Surprise her with a house cleaning. You could take advantage of a professional house cleaning service who will donate their time to give her and you - a break. Don’t check out. When treatment is over and life gets back to normal, normal is not so normal for her. Check in. She may be scared or just need to talk. The Cleaning Authority is proud to be affiliated with “Cleaning for a reason” www.cleaningforareason.org. Life’s too short to clean your own home! To get a free in-home estimate and learn how to earn discounted cleans call us at 717.695.9830 or check out our website Harrisburg.TheCleaningAuthority.com.

The best defense against breast cancer is 3-D by lisa k. torp, md, facs, medical director pinnaclehealth breast care center

Early detection is the best defense against breast cancer because treatments can begin sooner, which improves outcomes. Mammograms have improved greatly over the last decade. They have evolved from film to digital imaging and now digital tomosynthesis imaging (3-D mammography). Tomosynthesis of the breast is different from a standard mammogram. Tomosynthesis produces 3-D images and regular mammography produces 2-D images. A circle drawn on a piece of paper is a good way to think of the 2-D image. A baseball in the hand is 3-D. 3-D mammography gives radiologists the ability to view inside the breast layer by layer, helping them see the fine details of dense breasts more clearly by minimizing overlapping tissue. Because 3-D mammography uses digital technology, it is faster, more sensitive and can be done with a lower radiation dose. Now research confirms that 3-D mammography detects breast cancer earlier than traditional 2-D mammography in women with dense and non-dense breast tissue. Mortality from breast cancer has been decreasing continuously since 1989 in large part due to increased and improved screening. With the addition of tomosynthesis technology, I have personally seen patients who have

benefited by having a breast cancer identified very early, a cancer that decades ago we could not have caught and treated until it was more advanced, Initial data showed cancer findings were increased by 65 percent over conventional 2-D mammograms. 3-D mammograms have also decreased the need for patient callbacks due to suspicious findings by 33 percent at PinnacleHealth. The American Journal of Roentgenology (AJR) and the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) have published studies with similar findings. Recent research findings and changes in breast cancer screening guidelines have left many women wondering when they should receive a mammogram. The American College of Radiology and the Society of Breast Imaging continue to recommend that women get yearly mammograms beginning at age 40. Screening guidelines from other organizations may differ. I recommend all women discuss breast cancer screening guidelines with their doctor. Together, they can determine their risk profile for breast cancer and their best screening options. Stay at a healthy weight, be physically active, quit smoking and limit alcohol intake because they can help reduce the risk of breast cancer. Women of any age should see a doctor right away if they notice a physical change in the breast, such as a lump or thickening, or an inflammatory change, such as redness or hardening of the breast.

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Lifestyle changes for reflux prevention by nicholas a. mahoney, m.d.

John P. McLaughlin, D.O., F.A.C.G., F.A.C.P. Kevin C. Westra, D.O., A.G.A.F., F.A.C.P. Michael A. Veliuona, M.D. Mark C. Friedman, M.D. Nicholas A. Mahoney, M.D. Cortni J.T. Brooks, M.D. Michelle R. Kostelac, MPAS, PA-C Lisa C. Brenize, MSPAS, PA-C Specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of digestive and liver disease. Treating symptoms such as: Abdominal pain Constipation Diarrhea Heartburn Jaundice Nausea Rectal bleeding Trouble swallowing Vomiting

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As a gastroenterologist, I am commonly asked about what lifestyle modifications can be made for management of abdominal symptoms. People typically voice their concerns about multiple gastrointestinal issues for which they would prefer to avoid using medications. My goal as a physician is to manage my patient’s problems with the safest means possible. I try to limit prescriptions by utilizing the shortest duration of the lowest effective dose of a necessary medication. If possible, I focus on lifestyle changes so that medications may be avoided. Reflux disease or GERD is one of the most common GI ailments affecting most of us at some point in our lives. People will typically complain of a burning sensation in the stomach and chest region after meals, commonly at night after lying down. Some of us have been lucky to identify the foods which tend to trigger our reflux symptoms. By knowing which foods will exacerbate our GERD symptoms, we can prevent future episodes by avoiding those agents down the line. Common foods that will trigger reflux include tomato based products like red sauce, caffeine, chocolate, spicy foods and alcohol. I know this sounds like all the good things in life, but understanding these effects will

allow us to take precaution. For example, if you typically experience heartburn symptoms after consuming a red pasta sauce, it may be to your benefit to take an over the counter acid blocking agent a half hour before those meals. Additional lifestyle changes to limit reflux symptoms include elevating the head of the bed while sleeping, avoiding food within 3 hours of bedtime, staying upright for at least one hour after meals and limiting stress. Stress has been show to increase acid secretion. Our stomachs naturally make acid whenever we eat. It’s the acid content of our reflux that causes the irritation and damage which leads to our symptoms. By limiting the acid content/ production through stress reduction, we can decrease our heartburn symptoms. Another contributing factor to reflux disease is obesity. Extra weight that is carried in the belly region is thought to increase intra-abdominal pressure. This pressure can affect the normal flow of our stomach contents into the intestines, leading to more backwards flow or reflux into the esophagus. We can limit this impediment by focusing on weight loss through diet and exercise. All of the above changes can help in limiting heartburn/reflux symptoms. Healthy lifestyle changes may not eliminate all of our symptoms, but it can reduce the need for medications and improve our overall quality of life.

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Know what’s normal It’s important to become familiar with the way your breasts normally look and feel. Knowing what is normal for you may help you see or feel changes in your breasts. Repeat this exam every month - even if you’re pregnant. Get to know your breasts - how they look and how they feel starting right now.

IN THE SHOWER

Wet, soapy hands makes it easier to slide your fingers over your skin and feel what’s beneath the surface but you can also do the exam lying down. Holding your fingers flat, move the pads of the fingers gently over every part of each breast. Move fingers in small circles in an up-and-down pattern over the breast. Cover the entire breast from top to bottom, side to side - from your collarbone to the top of your abdomen, and from your armpit to your cleavage. Don’t neglect to gently check your nipple for lumps.

In front of a Mirror

Check for changes in the look and or shape of your breasts, including skin changes such as dimpling or nipple discharge. Continue to watch your breasts carefully as you stand with your arms relaxed at your sides. Next, raise your arms overhead and then place your hands on your hips and flex your chest muscles firmly.

What’s Next?

If you find a lump or notice other unusual changes: Don’t panic. About 80% of lumps found are not cancerous. See your doctor promptly for further evaluation.

FAKE

hen you think of counterfeiting, chances are the first thing that comes to mind is money. But did you know that prescription drugs can be counterfeited? While counterfeit drugs are not as common in the United States as they are in other countries, occurrences are on the rise. Counterfeit drugs either lack an active ingredient or are stronger or weaker in strength. While they are not a cause to panic, there is cause to be concerned, especially if you are taking a high-priced drug or some of the bestselling drugs on the market. Here is an overview of counterfeit prescription drugs and some suggestions on how not to become a victim of them. Why the sudden increase in counterfeit prescription drugs? Experts point to an increasing global market, the way drugs are distributed and a large profit potential. While other countries lack strict regulations, the United States is supposed to have one of the most secure drug industries. Still counterfeiting can occur, especially in the distribution of drugs. Drug distribution works like this. Drugs go from the manufacturers to authorized wholesalers who distribute the drugs to pharmacies and hospitals. From there, they go to consumers. The 1988 Prescription Drug Marketing Act requires states to license wholesalers and prohibits hospitals or pharmacies from reselling the drugs to anyone other than patients. The problem comes in the form of some 8,000 gray market wholesalers. This $140 billion-dollara-year industry is comprised of both legitimate and not-so-legitimate wholesalers. These wholesalers drastically discount drugs to sell to doctors, hospitals and clinics. The reduced drugs are then sold to other wholesalers at an extremely low price. Before finally reaching a pharmacy or hospital, the drugs probably have been sold and resold a number of times. In order to make more money, real drugs are mixed in with the fakes. All these re-sale transactions make regulation and tracking down counterfeit drugs almost

CAN YOU TELL?

By Ronda Addy

BUYING COUNTERFEIT DRUGS CAN SAVE MONEY, BUT THEY MAY NOT BE SAFE

impossible. Prime targets for counterfeiters are drugs like Altuzan, an injectable cancer medicine not approved by the FDA; drugs that are expensive; drugs that have no generic equivalent; and drugs that are commonly used, excluding common antibiotics. Drug manufacturers are not required by law to report counterfeit drugs to the FDA, police, hospitals or pharmacies. What can you do to avoid counterfeit drugs? Follow these tips: • Always buy from a reputable source. • Be aware of the appearance of the drug and its packaging. Are the bottles the same size? What does the type on the label look like? Ask for the product in the original packaging. Pay attention to changes in the lot number from one prescription to the next. If the drug is significantly lower in price, chances are it’s too good to be true. • Avoid buying from online pharmacies not licensed in the United States or ones that offer to write prescriptions or sell drugs without a prescription. Reputable online pharmacies will have a seal from the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy called VIPPS (Verified Internet Pharmacy Practice Site). These sites are identified by the VIPPS hyperlink seal displayed on their Website. • Contact your pharmacist if the drug has different side effects or tastes different. • Contact your local pharmacist, the FDA and the manufacturer if you suspect counterfeiting, While there is an increase in counterfeit drugs and it’s always better to be safe than sorry, only a small amount of prescription drugs moves through the secondary market and only a small percentage of them turns out to be fake. Be cautious but not overly so.

Counterfeit medicine may be contaminated or contain the wrong or no active ingredient. It could have the right active ingredient but at the wrong dose. 26

Woman Newspapers SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2016

“

“You never know how strong you are until being strong is the only choice you have. – Cayla Mills

“

“Courage doesn’t always roar. Sometimes courage is the little voice at the end of the day that says I’ll try again tomorrow. –Mary Anne Ramacher

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“Having had cancer, one important thing to know is you’re still the same person at the end. You’re stripped down to near zero. But most people come out the other end feeling more like themselves than ever before. –Kylie Minogue

“

If you have a friend or family member with breast cancer, try not to look at her with ‘sad eyes.’ Treat her like you always did; just show a little extra love. –Hoda Kotb

“We never hid anything from the kids. I feel whole again, I really do. I’ve told them, ‘Mommy’s boo-boo is much better now.’ –Wanda Sykes

“

I read somewhere that Mitt and I have a ‘storybook marriage.’ Well, in the storybooks I read, there were never long, long, rainy winter afternoons in a house with five boys screaming at once. And those storybooks never seemed to have chapters called MS or breast cancer. –Ann Romney

strength and inspiration to keep it in perspective While everyone’s journey is unique, knowing that others before you have been through something similar can be a comfort

“

“The goal is to live a full, productive life even with all that ambiguity. No matter what happens, whether the cancer never flares up again or whether you die, the important thing is that the days that you have had, you will have lived. –Gilda Radner SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2016 Woman Newspapers 27

The Great Next by Kathryn Baxter I have lived in New York City for over fourteen years. Brooklyn, to be exact. I love my neighborhood. There is a deep-seated pleasure I get from waving to my neighbors; young and old, stoop-sitters and cafe owners, dog walkers and stroller-pushers, suit-sporters and tattooed rockers. It’s hard to put this simple, intimate joy into words. I especially love those mornings when the sun hits the side of a red brick building just right and it practically glows; when the crush of commuters are rested just enough to give each other a little space. Each new day comes with a collective forgiveness, a willingness to let go of yesterday’s crammed commute and irritable glares, allowing for the spontaneous kindness of holding a train car door or helping carry a stroller up the subway steps to take effect. I don’t know if I’ll ever be able to let go of the narcotic buzz of this town. Airplanes overhead, subways beneath, horns honking, motorcycles revving, buses squealing. And the people – the party that makes this city go: the writers and the painters, the dancers and the engineers, the pushers and the scowlers, the mutterers, the musicians, the bankers, the hustlers – folks dancing the delicate balance between thriving and surviving. It is a giant kinetic neighborhood where working only one job feels like underachieving. I’m an engineer, but also I’m a playwright. (Words I’ve heard this week.)

Here is what being tenured in New York City has given me: an awareness of how very precariously and perfectly we are perched at the highest point of a powerful and feral wave, and if we’re lucky we not only manage to surf but to dance atop it, too. This is what my city is about. I want to carry this New York City persona that I’ve grown into over the past decade and a half with me wherever I go. I may choose to leave, to slow down, but I also want to stay sharp. There are those of us who are fortified by this buzz. Some of us have grown the necessary callouses. But sometimes it simultaneously wears thin. Besides, there is a big world out there. This city is such a collective, the peoples of the world represented so much so that I can forget that there are other lands, other people. And who am I to say I have seen it all, simply because I have seen so much? So, maybe after eighteen years in Pittsburgh, a handful up north in New England, and now almost fifteen in New York City, it will be time soon for another adventure. Maybe I’ll write to you next year from a ship at sea or a rocket overhead. Or, more likely, another state. But when I leave, will New York City leave me? Will I be lost without it?

Fun fall outings submitted by pride of the susquehanna

With the cool breezes and changing colors of fall come many fun outings. From the East Coast to the West Coast, big towns to small, there are a variety of activities and attractions that take place in the fall. Here is general list of some fall outings you might find near you. Corn Mazes - With the fall harvest often comes corn mazes. Some are more complex than others and may provide clues at various junctures to help visitors find their way out. Corn mazes may be part of an orchard’s offerings or an annual feature at a nearby farm. Fairs & Festivals - Fall is the perfect time for fairs and festivals. The weather is nicer, making for greater attendance numbers. Fall festival themes may run the gamut from harvest fruit and vegetables to historical figures to Halloween. Offerings may range from the typical rides and games to food, art and crafts, live entertainment and more. Fall Foliage Tours - Whether by foot, bike, car, bus or train, hundreds of people take time out of their busy schedules every year to take in the nation’s changing color palette. The myriad of reds, yellows, purples, oranges and browns is just too breathtaking not to see. Tours may be guided or self-guided, long or short. Hayrides - Like corn mazes, hayrides may be part of an orchard’s offerings or an attraction of their own. Some park districts, for example,

may offer hayrides in conjunction with a mini campout. Families attending could receive a long hayride around the park, followed by hot dogs, marshmallows and ghost stories around the campfire. Nature Walks - Many towns have nature centers that offer a variety of hands-on displays and animal exhibits indoors, along with nature walks throughout the seasons. Walks may be guided or self-guided. Either way, fall is a great time to take a nature walk and explore the local habitat. Not only are the leaves changing, making for a beautiful backdrop, but wildlife are out and about, preparing for the cold weather to come. Orchards - Many orchards do not open until the fall when the pickings are ripe. While some just offer u-pick produce, others provide the complete package, with restaurants, playgrounds, rides, games, corn mazes, petting zoos and more! Visitors may pick apples and then have a mug of hot cider and a slice of warm apple pie from the onsite bakery. These are just some of the typical fall attractions and activities you might find near you. Be open to the possibilities. You never know what else you might uncover from trolley tours to art shows to theatrical productions. The City of Harrisburg celebrates the centennial of Kipona on September 3rd, 4th and 5th along Riverfront Park and City Island. Join us to celebrate 100 years of fun, food and festivals.

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Best time to shop for heating and cooling by david sattazahn

We all know that when you are looking for great deals on Halloween candy, the best time to shop is the day after Halloween. It is also no secret that Black Friday is a great day for the savvy shopper to snag some bargains, but when is the best time to shop for a heating and cooling system? If you are looking to secure the best price, there may be several good times of the year to buy a system, but the absolute worst time to replace your system is when it stops working altogether. Knowing the seasons and doing your research will go a long way toward saving you a lot of money. Even well-maintained heating and cooling systems are not designed to last forever, and since today’s systems are so much more efficient than systems installed just five years ago, could it be that replacing your system before it breaks down will actually save you money? The late-summer season we are in right now is a great off-peak season in which to shop for a

new system. Not only are manufacturers more likely to offer better incentives when demand slows, certain banks offer attractive financing options to new customers, and dealers are more likely to work the installation of the system around your schedule as they have more time available to them now. While there may be no one-size-fits-all formula for capturing the best bargain, the educated and proactive shopper will save the most money. To learn what you need to know to buy the best system at the best price, call Environmental Controls & Service Inc. in Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania, at (717) 689-5372. We have been a trusted resource and loyal friend to thousands of customers in our area since 1988. Visit us at www.ecscomfort.com.

Winter’s coming Whether you need a new HVAC installation or service or repair, EC&S is the only name you need to remember. HERE’S WHAT CUSTOMERS ARE TELLING US...

“I certainly will be pleased to tell my friends about the services you offer in this area. Many thanks!” - Rosemarie M. “We have been having trouble with the air conditioning and the technician took the time and thoroughly diagnosed the problem!” - Tom C.

E mergency S ervice 31 N. Spruce Street, Elizabethtown 717-689-5372 Toll Free: 877-465-2015 www.ECScomfort.com

Optics and binoculars are not just for guys by sarah weaver, weaver’s outdoors

WE SELL A FULL LINE OF BINOCULARS, SCOPES, ETC.

WEAVER’S OUTDOORS

119 N. Duke St., Hummelstown (717) 566-1276

montanadecoy.com

Woman Newspapers SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2016

Welcome aboard ladies! The NFL, along with other major sports teams, has finally come to the realization that women do not like boxy men’s shirts, hence a women’s line of clothing. Who knew women liked sports? Manufacturers and retailers are finally beginning to understand women are among a growing number of sporting goods consumers once thought to be men-only territory. And yes, we are also purchasing binoculars and optics for hunting. Here are a couple of tips to remember. If you are a serious sports enthusiast searching wide open spaces in ever-changing climates where big game tends to roam, most likely your needs will be a waterproof, fog-proof, allweather binocular. The requirements can change for the seasoned bird watchers vs. observing nature from your deck or patio. If you are planning a cruise on a luxury ship; binoculars can be perfect for taking in the sights from the deck of the ship. You want to see every single detail of the scenery as you travel enabling you to focus close up. As we enter the deer rifle hunting and archery season, spotting scopes facilitate a clear

sight of the target prior to the shot. It is important to know who you are buying from. Has the sales person had experience with the particular binocular or scope you’re interested in? Additionally, you may want to consider a case to protect your new purchase, one that stays on while out in the wilderness and can withstand impact in demanding conditions. A good quality binocular harness can distribute the weight of your binoculars for comfort. Enjoy the outdoors! It’s easier than ever to do your homework and be a smart consumer.

Be kind to yourself by barbara costik, administrator middletown lumber, inc.

I have discovered a fascinating sentiment as I am getting older. Everything my parents used to drill in me has come true. I call my guys every name but the one they answer to. Time seems to be moving at an alarming rate. I walk into a room and forget what I was doing there. Work that I was accustomed to doing all in one day now takes three days to finish. The expediency of work, hobbies, chores and all of life’s demands seems to have lost its potency. I still have goals, obligations, wants etc. but it is balanced with a certain amount of

WHERE TO FIND A WOMAN

Dauphin County

patience. My favorite sentiment inside my head when I am stressed is this too shall pass. Ten years ago that sentiment would never have been part of my vocabulary. How does that famous quote go? “Youth is wasted on the young.” I seem to be so much smarter, yet dumber now then I was years ago. I know you are all shaking your head in agreement. I have learned to enjoy the simplest events and I am able to be in the present so much better now then in my youth. And at the same time I continue to repeat the same mistakes and shake my head in laughter, as if to say I know better. Life is short, be gentle. Please call (717) 944-4005 or stop by Middletown Lumber, Inc. located at 2 Clinton Avenue, Middletown, PA 17057 for information.

HARRISBURG AREA Advanced Skin Care, Affordable Dentures, Allegra Marketing Arlington Optical, Aspire Urgent Care & Family Medicine, Associated Cardiologists, Auditor General’s Childcare Center, Baturin & Baturin, Bethesda Mission, Blue Mountain Family Practice, Broad St. Market, Bronstein Jeffries Prof. Assoc., Café Fresco, Capital Region Sleep Disorder Center, Central PA Oral Surgeons, Central PA Surgical Assoc., Colonial Dental Group, Colonial Park Animal Clinic, Colonial Park Diner, Colonial Park Family Practice, Concentra Medical Center, Cost Cutters, CPRS Physical Therapy, Crown Plaza Hotel, CVS, Dauphin Co. Dept. Aging, Dr. Richard Rayner Family Practice, Dr. Zuckerman, Dress For Success, East Shore Healthcare, East Shore Public Library, Elements Massage, Exit Realty Capital Area, First Choice Rehabilitation, Hamilton Health Women, Infants & Children’s Program, Girl Scouts In the Heart of Pennsylvania, Gold’s Gym, HACC, Hamilton Health Center, Harrisburg City Hall, Harrisburg Gastroenterology, Harrisburg Hospital, Harrisburg Mall, Harrisburg Orthodontics, Healthy Starts Pediatrics, Heinz-Menaker Senior Center, Hilton Towers, Innovations, Jan L. Brown & Associates, Jan’s Beauty Salon, Jewish Home, Kindred Place, Kline Library, Kline Pediatric Center, Kmart, Labor & Industry Building, LA Fitness, Leber & Banducci Plastic Surgery, Linglestown Chiropractic Center, Madden Physical Therapy, Mangia Qui, Manor at Oakridge, Mark Boland Cosmetic Surgery & Lazer Center, Mazda on Paxton, Mazzetti & Sullivan Counseling Services, Memorial Eye Institute, Mia Testarossa, Mynd Works Inc., New Passages, Noah’s Ark Animal Hospital, Orbit Salon, PA Coaltion Against Domestic Violence, Paint and Create, Party City, Patient First, Peachtree Restaurant and Lounge, PHEAA Building, Pheasant Hill Estates, Pinnacle Community Health Woman’s Outpatient Center, Pinnacle Community Hospital, PinnacleHealth CardioVascular Institute, PinnacleHealth Kline Health Center, Premier Eye Care, PSECU Childcare Center, Quest Diagnostics, Reiki by Ricki, Restore HBG Habitat for Humanity, Rhoads & Simon LLP, Rite Aid, Roman Catholic Diocese Charities, Salvation Army Harrisburg Capital City Region, Salvation Army Retail Store, Sam’s Club, Select Physical Therapy, Shining Light Thrift Shop, Silvers Dental Care, Social Security Administration, Spring Creek Rehab, St. Thomas Restaurant, Starbucks, State Capitol Building, Stratis Gaynor, Sutliff Chevrolet, Sutliff Volkswagen, Swartz Kitchens & Bath, Tan and Garcia Pediatrics, The Goddard School, Tristan Assoc., Vision Resources, Watkin, Freshman & Nipple Assoc., Weber Vision Care, Weis Market, West Hanover Winery, What If Café, WomanCare Resource Ctr., WomenFirst, YMCA, YWCA

STEELTON Daniel Kambic, MD, Steelton Pharmacy MIDDLETOWN Frey Village, Hairacy, Hardee’s, Hetrick Center, MASD, Middletown Home, Middletown Library, Middletown Pharmacy, Penn State Harrisburg, PinnacleHealth FamilyCare, Press And Journal Publications HIGHSPIRE 230 Café, Chubb’s Market, Highspire School Apts., Holiday Inn, McDonalds HUMMELSTOWN All About Faces, Capitol Foot, Gold’s Gym, Hilton Garden Inn, Kirman Eye, Rhoads Pharmacy, Soda Jerk Diner, Woodward & Associates ELIZABETHTOWN Elizabethtown Library, Now Wear This HERSHEY Bentley’s Courtyard Café, Cocoa Urology Associates, Dafno’s Italian Grille, Desserts Etc., Emerald Springs, Heritage Cleaners, Hershey Endoscopy, Hershey Grille, Hershey Ortho & Spine Rehab, Leo Frittelli Salon & Day Spa, Library, Merle Norman Cosmetics, Mohler Senior Center, OIP, Pain Management Center@Hershey Med, Penn State Med Group Fishburn, Starbucks @ Tanger Outlets, Tristan Associates, What If Café PALMYRA Columbia Cottage

PLEASE SEE PAGE 23 FOR CUMBERLAND COUNTY DISTRIBUTION

This is only a partial list. Please visit www.womannewspapers.com for additional locations.

SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2016 Woman Newspapers

Life Is Better

When You’re Laughing By Erika Farber

ccording to the experts, laughter reduces pain, increases job performance, connects people emotionally, and even improves the flow of oxygen to the heart and brain. In other words, laughter is the best medicine. It isn’t always easy to muster a smile let alone maintain a sense of humor, but being blessed with friends who provide a steady supply of laughter truly can make all the difference. In high school, I didn’t always follow the conventional path, which inevitably led to a lot of anger and tears. The one thing that kept me sane during my adolescence was my best friend, Brian. Unlike the other boys in my Catholic high school - whose interests seemed to include little more than sports, chasing girls, and avoiding showers - Brian was a sensitive soul. At over six and a half feet tall, the only thing bigger than his physical being was his personality. Brian possessed a razor sharp wit and an unfailing capacity to make me laugh. His impersonations of our teachers, parents and classmates got us in trouble more than once. During the four years of school, we were inseparable. After graduation, we attended the same college for about a year, but life circumstances took us in different directions. We found ourselves hurtling towards adulthood at divergent paces, and all the joking and easy banter that defined our relationship for so long took a back seat. We were growing apart, and there didn’t seem to be anything we could do about it. We lost touch for about 10 years although I thought of him often. By chance, we bumped into each other one day. It was a strange and bittersweet moment: even though so much time had gone by, it didn’t feel that way, we picked up right where we left off. Once a fledgling photographer with a keen eye for beauty in the most ordinary of places, Brian had blossomed into a seasoned and passionate artist. His career in the fashion industry took him to all corners of the world for photo shoots and set design. His portfolio was magnificent, and his life was rich with color, music, adventure and happiness. Both Brian and I had weathered some very difficult times, but in the intervening years apart, I saw he’d grown into an introspective and caring man. He viewed the world fairly and clearly, with a sense of whimsy, but never an eye for judgment. I marveled at the fact that this man had been through such tough times, but made it through to the other side brighter, savvier, and more optimistic than ever. During a particularly rough period in my life, eager to shift the conversation from myself, I casually asked Brian how he’d been doing. He mentioned that he too just had the rug pulled out from under him: He’d been diagnosed with stage 4 cancer. In his typical calm fashion, he explained that although the prognosis wasn’t good, not to worry, he had a plan. Somehow, I wasn’t worried. His condition had seemed to plateau in a healthy place, he looked strong, with color in his cheeks and a sparkle in his eye. He continued to work and travel, meditate, eat right, and surround himself with beauty, joy and laughter. It was certainly working, and taking many cues from him, I too felt my own strength and resilience return. He later confessed that he’d had a few breakdown moments in coming to terms with what his future was going to be, but characteristically he’d learned from them, and moved past them. Through setbacks and surgeries, we shared many stories and meals. He seemed invincible. By the time Brian’s body gave in to the sickness, he was fully reconciled with it. I didn’t want things to change - I wanted to talk to him like we normally did. But what was “normal” now? I had no idea. There is no set precedent for sharing these few, final, precious moments, especially with someone so close to you, so dear. I decided to recount a story from high school, one our friends remember as being “quintessential Brian.” This particular story involved our high school teacher urging us to share a favorite song with the class. Brian shared an obscure, New Wave song that he loved, but whose dark and allegorical lyrics thoroughly confounded the rest of the class. We thought that was hysterical. I asked Brian if he remembered this. “Yeah, duh! Those friggin’ people didn’t know nothin’ about music.” I cracked up. As always, Brian had managed to turn the moment into laughter. The sparkle never left his eye, and that wit never left his soul. He passed away less than a week later. I wondered how I would ever find laughter again, now that my dear friend was gone. At his memorial service, I listened as countless friends and mourners got up to speak. Nearly everyone’s story about Brian was just like mine. Brian may be gone, but his memory will never die. My heart no longer feels empty when I think of him. That emptiness was healed, in a way, by the laughter and the memories we shared. And every time I laugh now, I think of him, and hope he is somewhere out there, giggling along with the joke.

for pictures of Brian, his adventures & his artwork, please visit Instagram #amazingbrian #brianblooms

sing laughter to make people feel better has been around since the time of King Solomon. Back in the 1300s, Doctor Henri de Mondeville told jokes to patients in the recovery room. In the 1600s, Richard Mulcater, an educator, told people suffering from head colds to laugh to feel better. Throughout history, kings have had court jesters who would make them laugh when times got stressful. Let’s take a look at how laughter can help make you feel better. Thanks to studies over the past 20 years, research shows that a good laugh will boost your immune system, lower your blood pressure, reduce pain, increase your lung capacity, improve your mood and overall state of well-being, and reduce your stress level. Because of this, hospitals, doctors and health clinics have begun instituting laughter programs, involving visiting clowns and humorous TV shows. One of the most important contributions to the laughter and feeling better theory is a book written by Dr. Norman Cousins. In 1964, Dr. Cousins was diagnosed with a crippling and painful disease. His will to live and get better led him to the use of natural resources to improve his condition. Dr. Cousins began focusing on laughter to create a positive factor that would change his body chemistry and help it heal. He watched Marx Brothers movies and Candid Camera reruns and read funny books. Dr. Cousins recovered from his illness and went on to write the book, Anatomy of an Illness as Perceived by the Patient.

The ability to laugh is something you are born with. It’s good for you, you can share it with others and it’s free. Who says you can’t get something for nothing?

What is it about laughter that makes you feel better? •L aughter increases your white cell count and raises your antibody level. This increase in antibodies helps your body fight infections and illnesses. • Laughter improves your blood circulation and increases the oxygen supply to your heart muscles. • Laughter increases your endorphin levels and lowers your level of pain. • Laughter improves your lung capacity and increases the oxygen levels in your blood. • Under stress your body produces a hormone called cortisol (also called the stress hormone). Laughter reduces high cortisol levels and brings your body back to a more relaxed state.

You’ve determined that you don’t laugh enough and you’d like to remedy the situation, but what can you do? •S ave funny cartoons, sayings or jokes when you see them. Put them in a humor file on Pinterest, and when things get stressful, open it and look at it. • Do things you did as a kid. Go to the zoo or a park and swing on the swings. • Make your work environment humorous. Bring toys like silly putty or a slinky to play with when the stress gets too much. Have funny pictures of family or pets on your desk. • Blow a stressful situation out of proportion. You will then see that the problem is not as bad as you thought. • Watch a funny movie. If you haven’t seen Drop Dead Gorgeous, rent it. • Throw a come-as-you-are party. Just have everyone come when you call no matter what they look like. • Invite friends over for a slumber party. Stay up all night, eat junk food and have a pillow fight.

It Makes You

Feel Good By Ronda Addy

SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2016 Woman Newspapers

Fantastic finds await 27th Annual Hegins Valley Arts & Crafts Faire craft fair shoppers September 17, 2016

Saturday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

“Come to the country” ❤ Over 200 selected craftsmen from PA and nearby states will be demonstrating and displaying their finest work. ❤ A delicious variety of foods prepared for your eating pleasure all day including breakfast starting at 7:00 a.m. ❤ Show will be held rain or shine. Parking - $2.00 (Benefit Hegins Park Association) NO DOGS ALLOWED - SERVICE DOGS ONLY

HEGINS PARK

Approximately 6 miles West on Rt. 25 from Exit 112 on Interstate 81. Watch for signs to Hegins Park.

For Information Call: 570-682-9541 or 570-682-8181

by kathryn otto

hegins valley arts

& crafts

faire

Are you searching for a unique gift or are you doing some early holiday shopping? You should surely be able to fulfill your shoppers desire to find that unusual item at a craft fair. Many craft fairs occur during the beautiful fall season of the year bursting with the many colors of seasonal change. The venue of craft fairs held at parks, groves, and fairgrounds is a most welcome change from crowded malls and on-line shopping. The opportunity to speak with the crafters while demonstrating their crafts is awesome and personal. Many craft fairs offer this on-site experience. Each year crafters offer an array of unique materials to create their completed project; items from men’s ties, reused kitchen gadgets, seed and fruit pit jewelry, purses made from carpets and quilts, in addition to wreaths, paintings, greeting cards, pottery, jellies, fruits, veggies, baked items and so much more. Truly there are items available for a variety of needs, wants, and desires for the craft fair shopper. Numerous food and beverage vendors are available throughout the day and often begin

with breakfast to satisfy all palates. Many foods can also be purchased to take home. Some craft fairs also offer raffle ticket drawings of beautiful baskets and trays of themed craft items. A fall craft fair is a welcome relief from the hot humid days of summer and a retreat prior to the cold, bleak winter. It is also a fun atmosphere to shop and enjoy the fair goods while visiting with family, friends, crafters, and vendors.

Homemade favorites GREEK NIGHT Every Tuesday

LET US CATER YOUR PARTY OR BUSINESS FUNCTION

1190 W. Chocolate Ave., Hummelstown 533-8999 11 am to 10 pm Daily, Closed Sunday

From Boxed Lunches to Hot Trays

Daily Specials • Homemade Italian Specialties • Salads & Wraps • Homemade Soups Daily • Pizzas & Bread made in our Brick Oven 34

Woman Newspapers SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2016

What women should know about cervical cancer screening Staying healthy does take some effort and vigilance. One part of that effort is getting appropriate screening tests, which are used to detect potential health problems when they’re still treatable. The screening tests you’ll need will change as you age. Once you start a test, it will likely be required periodically for the rest of your life. More than 12,000 women are diagnosed annually with cervical cancer and 4,000 women die each year. However, innovations in diagnostics and prevention could help reduce that number, while also giving women a better understanding of their health. • The basics: Woman 21-65 years old should have a Pap smear every three years according to new health guidelines, along with a Human Papillomavirus (HPV) test in some cases -- not annually as most women were taught. The Pap smear detects changes in cervical cells caused by persistent HPV infections, and the HPV test improves detection. After an abnormal result, doctors may perform a colposcopy exam by applying a solution to the cervix and watching for areas that turn white (acetowhitening), which can indicate abnormal cells. Certain women may need more frequent screening or treatment to remove pre-cancerous areas. • Computer-aided detection: Historically colposcopy has been a very subjective exam, and

accurately identifying biopsy sites is a challenging task. Dynamic spectral imaging (DSI) is based on the objective, quantitative assessment of the acetowhitening effect. It is more sensitive than colposcopy in detecting high-grade lesions and can provide improved guidance for biopsy • Reduced anxiety: Receiving news from your doctor that your Pap smear result is abnormal is frightening for any woman. However, new computer-enhanced imaging offers more clarity for both the clinician and the patient. • Prevention: Two FDA-approved vaccines are highly effective in preventing infections of high-risk HPV types that cause the majority of cervical cancers. The HPV vaccine is recommended to be given to pre-teen girls and boys at 11-12 years old before they are sexually active, but can be given up to age 26 for women and 21 for men. The best prevention for cervical cancer is being regularly tested to detect abnormalities early. With these new tools, cervical cancer can be eradicated in our lifetime.

The HealthyWoman Program is a free breast and cervical cancer early detection program of the Pennsylvania Department of Health. It is funded by the Department of Health and through a grant the Department receives from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Call 1-800-215-7494 to learn if you are eligible.

Source: StatePoint

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850 Milton Grove Road North Elizabethtown, PA 17022 717-689-3408 www.playfulpupsretreat.com

SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2016 Woman Newspapers

B r e a s t

C a r e

C e n t e r

Breast disease is personal, and your care should be as well.

Mechanicsburg Ortenzio Cancer Center at PinnacleHealth 2035 Technology Parkway, Suite 200 Mechanicsburg, PA

Great teams, like the one at the PinnacleHealth Breast Care Center, realize that great care comes from caring for the whole person. When dealing with a concern about high risk, benign or cancerous breast disease, you will receive patient and compassionate care tailored to your diagnosis and your life. Coupled with the most advanced treatment options, our nationally accredited breast care experts focus on you and your needs when you need it the most.

Harrisburg PinnacleHealth Cancer Center 4300 Londonderry Road, Suite 202 Harrisburg, PA

(717) 545-5000 | pinnaclehealth.org/phbcc