Observer
Health Matters OCTOBER 2019
CLEARING
THE AIR Vaping products hit the market in the early 2000s. Why the sudden increase in related deaths and injuries?
SEE PAGES 10-11
CONTROL ISSUES
MIRACLE WORKER
New games present new addiction challenges.
Local family grateful for Dr. Gregor Alexander’s care.
PAGES 12-13
PAGES 6-7
FEEDING FIDO Are grain-free pet foods good for your furry friend?
PAGE 17
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OCTOBER 2019
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OCTOBER 2019
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OCTOBER 2019
Observer “If we are to build a better world, we must remember that the guiding principle is this — a policy of freedom for the individual is the only truly progressive policy.” Friedrich Hayek
“Road to Serfdom,” 1944 President and CEO / Matt Walsh, mwalsh@yourobserver.com Editor and Publisher / Michael Eng, meng@OrangeObserver.com Managing Editor / Tim Freed, tfreed@OrangeObserver.com Design Editor / Jessica Eng, jeng@OrangeObserver.com Community Editor / Amy Quesinberry, amyq@OrangeObserver.com Sports Editor /Troy Herring, therring@OrangeObserver.com Associate Editor / Danielle Hendrix, dhendrix@OrangeObserver.com Staff Writer / Eric Gutierrez, egutierrez@OrangeObserver.com Multimedia Advertising Executives / Ann Carpenter, acarpenter@OrangeObserver.com Cyndi Gustafson, advertising@OrangeObserver.com Terri Hope, thope@OrangeObserver.com Creative Services Lindsay Cannizzaro, lcanniazzaro@OrangeObserver.com Advertising Operations Manager / Allison Brunelle, abrunelle@OrangeObserver.com Office Coordinator / Accounting Ashley McWilliams, amcwilliams@OrangeObserver.com
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HEALTH BRIEFS
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Pink parade rolls outfor breast cancer awareness Orlando Health UF Health Cancer Center kicked off National Breast Cancer Awareness Month with a parade of pink public-safety vehicles. Local law enforcement and fire rescue vehicles were wrapped in pink to honor the thousands of breast cancer patients and survivors who battle the disease every year. This is the third year Orlando Health has partnered with first responders. Each of the agencies will sport the pinkwrapped vehicles throughout the month of October for breast cancer awareness. Agencies participating in the pink parade include Orlando Police Department, Orlando Fire Department, Orange County Fire Rescue, Orange County Sheriff’s Office, Osceola County Fire Rescue, Ocoee Police Department and Lake Mary Fire Department. “Every October, it’s important to celebrate the amazing stories of survivorship and to continue to build awareness throughout the community,” said Dr. Nikita Shah, breast cancer specialist at Orlando Health UF Health Cancer Center. “We are so appreciative of our local first responders for playing such an important role in helping our team spread the word about breast cancer.”
Healthy West Orange to host fall festival Healthy West Orange will host its annual Health & Harvest Festival from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 2, at the Winter Garden Farmers Market, downtown Winter Garden. This event will feature free games, giveaways, fitness classes, cooking and gardening lessons and more. Take your bikes and cruise around Winter Garden with Wheelworks on a family bike ride and get a free bike safety check, too. Free health screenings, CPR classes and activities will keep you on top of your health while you tap your toes to the tunes played by DJ Mix On Wheels. The event also includes a series of demonstrations, including Cooking with Claire at 10 and 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.; and Gardening with Holly at 11 a.m. and noon. For more information, visit healthywestorange.org.
Mammogram program returns for October
Shepherd’s Hope and Sand Lake Imaging are partnering to provide free mammograms to women in need in Central
Florida through the “Get a Mammogram, Give a Mammogram” initiative. For each new patient who gets a mammogram at Sand Lake Imaging during October, the facility will donate a free mammogram screening to an uninsured Shepherd’s Hope patient. The initiative, now in its seventh consecutive year, is held in conjunction with national Breast Cancer Awareness Month. “One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime, but for those who are uninsured, this life-saving procedure is far from reach,” said Pam Gould, president and CEO of Shepherd’s Hope. “We are grateful for our longstanding partnership with Sand Lake Imaging that allows Shepherd’s Hope to provide local uninsured women with this essential medical exam at no charge.” Shepherd’s Hope provides free primary and secondary medical services to the one in four Central Floridians who are uninsured or underinsured at five health center locations in Central Florida. Annual mammogram screenings can detect breast cancer early and help reduce breast cancer mortality. “Breast cancer is the second leading cause of death among American women of all ages, with 21% of all cases occurring before the age of 50,” said Dr. Robert Posniak, women’s specialty radiologist and president of Sand Lake Imaging. “Routine annual screening mammography for an average-risk woman beginning at age 40 has been proven to save lives and gives more treatment options if diagnosed early.” Screening mammogram appointments can be scheduled at any of Sand Lake Imaging’s three outpatient radiology centers. To schedule an appointment for the “Get a Mammogram, Give a Mammogram” program, call (407) 363-2772.
Orlando Health nurse receives national awards
Dr. Daleen Penoyer, Orlando Health’s director of nursing research, was recently recognized by two organizations for her contributions to the nursing profession. Penoyer was awarded the 2019 Florida Nurses Association Icon Award in the area of Nursing Research at the Florida Nurses Association Member-
ship Assembly Sept. 13. This award is given to outstanding nurses who have contributed to their community and profession. Penoyer also was recognized as the 2020 Shublin-Weil Master Clinician/Teacher in the category of Excellence in Bedside Teaching Award from the Society of Critical Care Medicine. “We are extremely proud of Dr. Daleen Penoyer,” said Jayne Willis, chief nursing executive and vice president, Orlando Health. “She has made countless contributions to our organization and to our patients. Her work deserves to be recognized.” Penoyer has conducted research into the impact different types of care on ventilator events have on patientdischarge outcomes and the impact multidisciplinary and multimodal care has on sepsis outcomes. As an inaugural fellow in the National Clinical Nurse Specialist Association, Penoyer is recognized for her dedication to nursing and healthcare leadership and scholarship. She is the first nurse at Orlando Health to receive these awards.
DOH names community health nursing director
Marlene Cruz Andreoli
The Florida Department of Health in Orange County welcomed Marlene Cruz Andreoli as the department’s new community health nursing director. Andreoli comes to DOHOrange from the private sector with more than 11 years of nursing care and education and training experience. Andreoli will directly supervise Family Planning and Prenatal Clinics, Employee Health services, Dental Clinic, School Health and Neighborhood Center clinics, and the Healthy Start program. She also will ensure training and nursing skills competency for DOH-Orange nurses. “A lifelong goal of mine has been to provide compassionate
ORANGE COUNTY DOH TO OFFER FREE FLU SHOTS The Florida Department of Health in Orange County will host a free drive-thru flu shot point-of-dispensing clinic from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 2, at Freedom High School, 2500 West Taft Vineland Road, Orlando. The shots are free for anyone ages 6 months or older. The event will allow residents to roll in, roll up a sleeve and receive a flu shot safely and quickly while remaining in their vehicles. The adult hepatitis A vaccine also will be available for residents 19 and older. Residents should wear clothing that is loose around the arm so the public health nurse can administer the flu shot in the upper arm. For more information, call DOH-Orange’s Immunization program, (407) 858-1444. care to those who need it most,” Andreoli said. “Emily Dickinson described it best in her poem, ‘If I can stop one heart from breaking.’ Working with a group of caring and selfless professionals just confirms this is where I belong. This position will allow me the opportunity to provide mentorship to public health nurses in collaboration with many wonderful public health programs. As I embark on this journey, I am excited and anticipate many positive outcomes.” Prior to joining DOH-Orange, Andreoli has provided oversight and direction to clinical quality data analysts and specialists as an electronic health record implementation manager. In addition, she served as the senior director of education and training at Orlando Health and Rehab and worked in the Medical Surgical Unit as a registered nurse at the Hunter Holmes McGuire Veterans Affairs Center in Richmond, Virginia. Andreoli holds a master’s degree in Nursing Informatics from Walden University and received her registered nurse diploma from the Southside Regional Medical Center School of Nursing in Petersburg, Virginia.
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OCTOBER 2019
Through his hands, God’s work MICHAEL ENG EDITOR AND PUBLISHER
T
“At 33, I learned the secret to life. It’s just love and family. And I’m grateful to have learned it so young.” — Mary LaFontaine
here is an instant bond among parents of premature children. They’re called NICU moms and dads, and their connection is rooted in the intense experiences they endured before, during and after their babies’ early entrances into the world. They know what it’s like to hang on every number change on an oxygen monitor, on every blip on a pulse oximeter and, most importantly, on every word out of their baby’s doctor’s mouth. And that’s why Dr. Gregor Alexander’s unexpected departure from the Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies shocked so many Central Florida parents. In his 40-plus-year career as part of the hospital’s NICU (which was named after him in 2010), Alexander cared for — and indeed, saved — tens of thousands of babies. For his patients’ parents, his work often led to stories of hope, faith and miracles. Marysa LaFontaine — a sweet, sometimes shy 8-year-old who calls Winter Garden home — is just one of those stories. ALL THAT MATTERS
Mary LaFontaine knew something wasn’t right. It was Feb. 23, 2011, and she was about halfway
through her pregnancy. When a 102-degree fever lasted several weeks, she begged her OB-GYN for help. Her worries actually started months before, but subsequent tests concluded everything was fine with her and her baby. This time, her OB-GYN put her on bed rest and sent her home. However, that night, Mary began to experience what she thought were contractions. At 12:30 a.m. Feb. 24, she and her husband, Eric, climbed into their car and drove to Winnie Palmer’s Triage Unit. She was sent home with medication to stop contractions and relieve anxiety — after all, she wasn’t due for another five months. Less than five hours later, the LaFontaines became NICU parents. “I was standing in my bathroom doorway, and she fell out — still in the amniotic sac,” Mary said. “I held her gently and slowly got back in bed. I had to fight the contractions, because I knew they could break the sac, and she would die.” Mary didn’t know Eric also had seen what had happened. She tried to stay calm and asked him to call 911. Eric, though, was fully aware his first daughter had been born right there in his bedroom. “We were both trying not to make each other panic,” Mary said. “Eric called 911, and I just remem-
ber watching the clock on the DVR tick as we waited.” The Winter Garden Fire Department sent everything — a truck, two ambulances, a helicopter. But no equipment could have prepared them for this. “They had never seen anything like this,” Mary said. Paramedics decided to cut the umbilical cord and transport both mom and baby in separate ambulances to Health Central Hospital. “I remember after we were separated, a paramedic took Marysa and dropped her into his shirt to keep her warm,” Mary said. “I thought that that was the last time I’d see her.” In the ambulance, a paramedic asked Mary if this was her first miscarriage. I guess it is, she said. At Health Central, Mary saw the expressions on the paramedics’ faces. They looked distraught, defeated. Marysa didn’t make it, Mary assumed. In fact, there are myriad reasons why Marysa probably shouldn’t have made it. Her eyes were still fused, she registered a heart rate of a terrifyingly low 40 beats per minute. Her body core temperature measured 83 degrees. And at just 23 weeks, the only thing separating her brain from the outside world was a fragile piece of skin. With so many paramedics and nurses having already handled her, any one of them could have unknowingly caused irreparable damage. But Marysa, as the LaFontaines would come to know in the following years, was nothing if not
a fighter. She was breathing the entire way to the hospital. And those heart rate and temperature numbers? They were Marysa’s body preserving itself until help could arrive. Ciro Escoto was able to get Marysa intubated, and unbeknownst to the LaFontaines, Alexander already was caring for their minutes-old daughter. His top two nurses, Barbara Peterson and Karla Borrelli, were en route via helicopter to assess Marysa and prepare her for transport to Winnie Palmer. Before their journey, Peterson and Borrelli brought Marysa in her isolette to Mary. They wanted her to see her daughter. “Inside the isolette, there was this little tiny blob in a Ziploc bag,” Mary said. “They told me I needed to look at her. There was a little tube going into her mouth. Her skin was translucent. And it was amazing — her hands were perfectly formed. “I knew what this meant,” she said of seeing Marysa. “We were in for the fight at that point.” It wasn’t likely that Marysa would survive — and even less so that she wouldn’t be without some complications. But none of that mattered. “I only wanted to know, ‘Can I love her?’” Eric said. “Because that’s all that matters.” FIVE MONTHS
After being discharged from Health Central, Mary and Eric first went home to make sure everything was locked and secure. Then, they made their way to Winnie Palmer. A nurse brought the LaFon-
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For more than four decades, Dr. Gregor Alexander worked to deliver hope — and sometimes, miracles — as a member of the neonatal intensive care team at Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies.
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taines to Room 2C — reserved for the most critical of patients. And as she was explaining to them all the rules that come with preemie babies, Alexander entered the room. He had stayed past his shift just to meet them. I have been waiting to meet this mom and hear how she managed to save this baby who was born at home, he said. This doesn’t happen often, and I didn’t expect her to be in the shape she’s in. That first meeting — the first face-to-face conversation she would have with the man responsible for saving her baby — is seared into Mary’s memory. And it served as the beginning of a 154-day journey the LaFontaines endured before they brought Marysa home. There were setbacks — jaundice, breathing issues, a critical brain scan that would tell the LaFontaines whether Marysa was injured on her birthday. But as NICU parents do, the LaFontaines found silver linings wherever they could. “Every day we still had her was a good day,” Eric said. Mary soon became known as “The Eagle,” and when she arrived, nurses and doctors would say, The Eagle is at the nest. And during her stay, Marysa became somewhat of a celebrity. She appeared in a Mastercard commercial for the Arnold Palmer Invitational and even met the legendary golfer himself. Her case also was used in research projects being conducted at the time. “I did not want all of this to be in vain,” Mary said. “If other babies could benefit from this data, then I wanted that.” All the while, they followed Alexander’s instructions to the letter. “We hung on every word that
Marysa LaFontaine weighed 1 pound, 7 ounces when she was born Feb. 24, 2011.
Marysa LaFontaine, now 8, loves to ice skate and is learning the violin. Dr. Gregor Alexander has an uncanny knack of remembering every one of his patients and always enjoys visiting Marysa LaFontaine.
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OCTOBER 2019
man said,” Mary said. “Once, he told me classical music would help me to lactate more. I tried it, and it did. Then, when I told him it worked, he said, ‘Mary, I was just joking!’” Marysa was born Feb. 24, 2011, at 1 pound, 7 ounces, at home. When she finally returned to Winter Garden July 29, 2011, she weighed 10 pounds, 7 ounces. Marysa had the second-longest stay in the NICU that year. The LaFontaines credit Alexander, Drs. Brian Lipman and Jose Perez, and all nurses and support staff at Winnie Palmer for getting them to that day. But as many know, Alexander shies away from the accolades. God does His work through my hands, he told the LaFontaines. THE SECRET TO LIFE
Today, Marysa is an 8-year-old third-grader who loves ice skating, music and dance. She’s an excellent student — all A’s and one B on her last grade card — and her dream is to become a doctor or biomedical engineer so she can help others. Marysa also is somewhat of a local celebrity with the Winter Garden Fire Department. They have been guests of honor at Marysa’s birthday parties, and for the annual Santa Run, Marysa enjoys a few extra candy canes from the big man himself. “We won the lottery with Marysa,” Mary said. “She is the strongest person I know. She may not have had the best start, but she has a great future. “At 33, I learned the secret to life,” she said. “It’s just love and family. And I’m grateful to have learned it so young.”
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OCTOBER 2019
HIDDEN DANGERS:
A PARENTS’ GUIDE TO STUDENT SUBSTANCE ABUSE
When it comes to protecting a student in school, communication and careful monitoring is key. TIM FREED MANAGING EDITOR
It’s no secret that substances in schools continue to be a hidden danger for families, but that doesn’t mean that parents can’t get in front of the issue. Officer 1st Class Carlos Hernandez, of the Windermere Police Department, who spent 11 years in drug control with a special enforcement team at the Casselberry Police Department, said gateway drugs such as alcohol and marijuana still are prevalent today. “It’s pretty easy to conceal in your backpacks — I think parents should do random checks of their children,” Hernandez said. “Parents were sometimes not aware that their child was doing that.” Other substances such as K2 or Spice — a synthetic marijuana —
Although Spice isn’t as prevalent as it once was, alcohol and marijuana remain an issue.
isn’t as common as it was in past years, he said, adding that vaping is now the major trend. Some research and careful monitoring by parents goes a long way in preventing their children from getting their hands on it. HAVE THE TALK
“Getting more involved and tuned in to what kids are into as a parent would be the best advice,” Hernandez said. “Most of our kids have smart phones, and they have a lot of access to a lot of information that isn’t being supervised. Be tuned in (about) who are their friends. Talk to your children a little more and get in tune. Sometimes, we get busy with our daily lives and kind of forget about that.” Jesse Radloff is a licensed mental health counselor and care coor-
dinator at Orlando Health South Seminole Hospital. He said males are at a higher risk than females when it comes to substance abuse disorders, though it does affect
“Don’t be afraid to have the talk. Ask them point-blank, ‘Hey, I’ve noticed your grades have come down, you’ve become kind of withdrawn and you’re not hanging out with the friends that you used to. What’s going on?’ If you’ve laid the foundation beforehand of trust and open communication, then they’re more likely to either admit that they’re using or open up about the types of things that are going on around them that’s contributing to the use.” — Jesse Radloff, licensed mental health counselor and care coordinator at Orlando Health South Seminole Hospital
both. Radloff added the earlier someone starts using a substance, the higher probability it will follow that child into adulthood. “It doesn’t mean that if you smoke or drink in high school, you’re going to be an alcoholic when you grow up, but if you smoke and drink in high school there’s a higher likelihood that it will happen later in life,” Radloff said. Abusing a substance such as marijuana or alcohol usually stems from a social group. High school is a completely different place for students today compared to when their parents were there,
but peer pressure still remains, Radloff said. “What your social group is doing, you are more likely to reflect,” he said. “If you hang out with a bunch of people who party, odds are, you are going to do that. Although it does happen, there aren’t too many adolescents that just crawl into a bottle and hide in their room. It tends to happen more in the social context. “The biggest thing is raising your kids to have a spine and some integrity and to have a mindset that they can stand up to peer pressure — and engender as early as you can open, clear lines of communication.”
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SEEK HELP
Radloff also stressed that if children are battling an addiction, don’t be afraid to give them the help they need — and don’t freak out if there is something going on, he said. “There’s a big stigma of, ‘Oh my God, if I take my kid to get help, they’re not going to be able to get into college or it’s going to make me look bad socially because I’m the one that failed as a parent,’” Radloff said. “No, don’t buy into the stigma. Seek help. You wouldn’t fault a diabetic for taking their insulin or going to their doctor every month. It should be just as much of a non-issue for seeking mental health and substance-abuse treatment. That goes for kids and adults.” Anyone can call 211 to gain access to an entire database of services such as substanceabuse counseling.
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Get more out of life!
CONSEQUENCES According to the Orange County Public Schools Code of Conduct, drug possession and use — as well as drug transmission, distribution, selling and buying — are considered level four offenses, which are the most series acts of misconduct. Any level four offense results in a 10-day suspension with a potential recommendation for expulsion. According to the code, “drugs/possession/use” is defined as “the possession, solicitation, or use, of illegal or illicit drugs, being under the influence of an illegal or illicit drugs or any other substance capable of modifying mood or behavior, the possession or use of any substance represented to be of said nature, or possession of drug paraphernalia. Possession or use of overthe-counter medication in excess of the manufacturer’s prescribed limits may be treated as a mood-altering substance.” “Drugs/transmission/ distribution/selling/buying” is defined as “the transmission or distribution, buying, or selling of any drug or contraband substance, or the transmission or distribution, buying, or selling of any substance represented to be of said nature. This includes any form of payment for any drug or contraband substance.”
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It’s just as important to speak up yourself as a parent, Radloff said. “I’ve seen way too many parents that are afraid of their kids,” he said. “Don’t be afraid to have the talk. Ask them point-blank, ‘Hey, I’ve noticed your grades have come down, you’ve become kind of withdrawn and you’re not hanging out with the friends that you used to. What’s going on?’ If you’ve laid the foundation beforehand of trust and open communication, then they’re more likely to either admit that they’re using or open up about the types of things that are going on around them that’s contributing to the use.”
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OrangeObserver.com
SMOKE & MIRRORS? A rise in vaping-related illnesses and deaths has sparked investigation into the smoking alternative. But vaping products date back to the early 2000s, so why the sudden increase in danger? ERIC GUTIERREZ | STAFF WRITER
O
ctober is most known as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. However, the month also is designated Healthy Lung Month by the Lung Institute and the American Lung Association. In recent months, vaping-related illnesses and deaths have continued to rise throughout the
country. As a result, federal and local governments, as well as some businesses, have taken actions on vaping. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Food and Drug Administration, state and local health departments, and other clinical and public health organizations are investigating a multistate outbreak of lung injuries associated with the use of electronic cigarettes and vaping products. Vaping products can come in various shapes, sizes and designs and even go by different names. Electronic cigarettes, or e-cigarettes, such as Juuls are some of the most popular and prevalent among vape users. Although e-cigarettes have been sold for more than a decade, incidents of vaping-related illnesses have started to proliferate this year. Furthermore, the impacts of the long-term use of vaping products have yet to be determined. Dr. Jenna Wheeler is a pediatric critical care physician at Orlando Health. She said a common misconception about vaping is that water vapor is exhaled after a person takes a hit from a vaping device. “Vaping is essentially inhaling and exhaling an aerosol vapor that’s produced by an e-cigarette or a (vaping) device that goes by some different name,” Wheeler said. “There’s actually a misconception as far as the ‘water vapor’ that is (associated with vaping). There is not any water vapor associated with it. It’s actually an aerosol-like (substance) from these chemicals that creates fine particles, and that’s what you’re
inhaling when you’re vaping. You’re not inhaling a water vapor.” THC AND VITAMIN E ACETATE
The latest discoveries from the investigation into lung injuries related to vaping indicate that products containing Tetrahydrocannabinol — or THC, which is the psychoactive compound in marijuana that causes a “high” — play a role in the outbreak of vapingrelated injuries. The FDA reported that samples of vaping fluid — more commonly known as vaping “juices” — that caused individuals to get sick included THC and also contained a chemical called vitamin E acetate. And in some cases, the vaping products containing THC were purchased on the black market. Locally, Wheeler said, some physicians at Orlando Health have seen patients with drug-related issues related to vaping. She added some of those thought the product they were vaping contained THC but were unaware of what else could have been in the product. “We have seen some patients who have come in not necessarily from a respiratory issue related to vaping — but from a drug-related
incident where they were vaping and they were unaware of what substance they were vaping,” Wheeler said. “Because of that, they had some serious consequences and were having to come in and be hospitalized in our intensive care unit.” Although the specific chemical or chemicals that are causing injuries have yet to be determined, the FDA has issued a warning against using vaping products containing THC as they also might contain vitamin E acetate or other dangerous chemicals. Additionally, the FDA has urged consumers to avoid purchasing THC vaping products on the street, as a consumer might not know exactly what chemicals are in those products. The FDA also has urged consumers to refrain from adding or modifying THC oil purchased from stores. “One of the problems with vaping is that you don’t know exactly what you’re inhaling,” Wheeler said. “When (vaping patients) come to us, we can run a common drug panel, but there’s so many other chemicals out there that can cause problems with your neurological status that don’t show up on just the basic (drug) panel.”
“It’s actually an aerosollike (substance) from these chemicals that creates fine particles, and that’s what you’re inhaling when you’re vaping. You’re not inhaling a water vapor.” Dr. Jenna Wheeler, pediatric critical care physician, Orlando Health
HEALTH MATTERS
OrangeObserver.com
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OCTOBER 2019
BUSINESS IMPACTS
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According to the CDC, as of Oct. 1, a nationwide total of 1,080 cases of lung injury associated with the use of vaping products have been reported to the CDC, and 18 deaths linked to vaping-related illness have been confirmed in 15 states. Most of those patients — about 70% — admitted for vaping-related injuries are males. Furthermore, many of those impacted have been individuals in their teens or early 20s, with 80% of patients younger than age 35. The youngest individual to die as a result of vapingrelated illness was a 17-year-old from The Bronx. Vaping among youth has been on the rise in recent years. In 2017 and 2018, vaping skyrocketed among youth and led the U.S. Surgeon General to declare vape use among youth an epidemic in the country. Moreover, in 2018, data from the CDC and FDA showed that more than 3.6 million youth — including one in five high-school students and one in 20 middle-school students — used a vaping product within the past month. That nationwide rise of vaping among youth also is reflected locally, according to Orange County Public Schools spokesperson Lorena Arias. “Similar to what school districts are facing nationwide, we have seen an increase in students vaping on campus districtwide,” Arias said. “The district has video cameras in all OCPS facilities that can be viewed at any time and can provide playback when a violation is suspected. I would not be able to say if vaping among students occurs more often in schools on the west side, since vaping and e-cigarettes are categorized under ‘Smoking and Other Use of Tobacco Products’ in the Code of
Student Conduct and doesn’t have its own separate category.” Capt. Daniel Gutierrez and Lt. Clay McCullough both are school resource officers at the Orange County Sheriff’s Office. They said although OCSO isn’t always notified of vaping incidents at the schools, they also reported that vaping among youth has increased locally. “(I) polled our supervisors and personnel because I have (personally) not seen an increase (of vaping among youth) at my level,” McCullough said. “After checking with them, they’re not seeing or not being notified by school admins of vaping issues. I can tell you that the general consensus is an agreement that it has increased. We’re just not seeing it or being notified of it at the schools.” McCullough added that because vaping falls under the category of smoking and other use of tobacco products under the OCPS code of student conduct, incidents involving students and vaping are handled internally at the schools, and the schools don’t have to notify law enforcement in those instances. He also said some vaping products don’t even contain nicotine. “If they (students) are (caught vaping), schools aren’t notifying law enforcement,” Gutierrez said. “It’s not a criminal violation to have a vaping device unless it has THC in it, and of course, there’s a test kit that will determine that (presence of THC). … It’s clearly coming out nationwide that this vaping is a detrimental harm to children and the people that are doing (it). … Even if it’s not an illegal substance, the vapor they’re inhaling with these products can cause some really bad health problems, apparently.”
1,080
Cases of lung injury associated with the use of vaping products
18
Deaths linked to vapingrelated illness have been confirmed in 15 states
80%
Percent of patients under age 35
17
Age of youngest individual to die as a result of vapingrelated illness
3.6M
Youth using a vaping product according to the CDC and FDA in 2018 Reported by the CDC as of Oct. 1
Vaping always has been marketed as an alternative to traditional smoking, and, like with traditional smoking products, vaping has been geared toward adults. However, some have argued the array of different flavors can appeal to youth. Because of this, some state and local governments have taken action against the sale of flavored vaping products and juices. For example, the states of Massachusetts and Michigan both have imposed bans on the sale of flavored vaping products, but these actions don’t come without consequence, because they could have impacts on small businesses. Megan Wertsching is the manager at My Vape Room in Winter Garden. She said the news of vaping-related illnesses and deaths has negatively impacted business. She has seen a recent decline in customers coming in and has even heard of some of her customers putting down their vaping devices and going back to traditional smoking. She added that, traditionally, most vaping juices are made with products that are in food, such as vegetable glycerin and artificial flavoring. “I definitely think it’s a shame that people aren’t being more educated on what’s actually harming people,” Wertsching said. “The media is going on a frenzy about vaping, and it’s such a broad term that really can refer to so many differing things. In reality, people have been vaping for years, and it hasn’t been a problem until right now. I feel like that has everything to do with the fake THC cartridges and nothing to do with (traditional vaping products). … A lot of the ingredients that are in these (vaping) juices are stuff that you get in food every day.” Furthermore, Wertsching emphasized vaping products are supposed to be for adults. She said although she understands why some governmental entities and organizations have been cracking down on the sale of flavored vaping products, she also said parents should take the responsibility of talking to their children about vaping. “I definitely understand where people are coming from — everyone just wants their kids to be safe,” Wertsching said. “E-cigarettes are geared toward people who have been smoking cigarettes and are trying to find an alternative, and that’s what this is. … It’s not for your teenager. I also think that parents should take more action rather than have the government regulate everything. It should be in the parents’ hands. If you don’t want your kid vaping, educate them.” OCSO spokesman Capt. Carlos Torres agrees with Wertsching’s sentiment and adds that parents should be aware and involved with what goes on in their child’s life. “Like anything that we would recommend to a parent is to be involved in their child’s life, and to be aware of what they’re doing on social media, to see what they are putting in their rooms (and) backpacks,” Torres said. “(Parents) being actively involved in their child’s life … would definitely give them a better play on what their children are doing.
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HEALTH MATTERS
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OrangeObserver.com
OCTOBER 2019
GAME CONTROLLER With fast-paced action, carrot-dangling reward systems and social components, modern video games can tap into addictive tendencies in children.
Fortnite and other battle royale-style games can give players a burst of dopamine as they play.
TIM FREED MANAGING EDITOR
Video games are designed to be fun — but are they also triggers for addiction? Jesse Radloff, a licensed mental-health counselor and care coordinator at Orlando Health South Seminole Hospital, said research exists that explores that assertion. Gaming disorder — recognized by the Diagnostic and Statistical
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Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition as “an area worthwhile for further study” — is mentioned in studies coming out of Europe, though the research is sparse, Radloff said. The brains of children — especially males — aren’t completely developed in the areas of impulse control, higher-level thinking and decision-making, Radloff said. This makes a child a prime candidate to become addicted to something such as gaming, but
Courtesy of Fortnite
many games are intentionally designed to take advantage of this, Radloff said. “By having fast-paced action and a reward coming is huge,” he said. “Whether it’s succeeding in first-person shooters — it’s killing your enemy — or in some games it’s collecting treasure or getting a new card. In phone-based card games — like Clash Royale or Clash of Clans — each day they have some free rewards, but if you want the really good one,
you’ll spend a couple of dollars of real money to get the elite pack or whatever. It’s having mechanisms in-game where they can get a oneup on someone else, whether it’s better equipment or more money.” Games such as Fortnite, where players enter a battle royale-style arena and try to be the last player standing, are another example, Radloff said. If a player loses, he or she can immediately jump into a new game to try again. “One of the studies that I read
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“With the rise of actual professional gaming, it’s a good idea for parents to keep in mind that it’s possible — if their kid is really good at it — it’s more and more being treated as a sport,” he said. “Orlando Health sponsors (an NBA) e-gaming team with the Orlando Magic, so it’s not necessarily just a silly pastime.” Like many other activities that produce a reward and a burst of dopamine, gaming should be enjoyed in moderation. “As with pretty much anything when you’re rearing kids, (set) healthy boundaries and (talk) about it ahead of time — starting the conversations early,” Radloff said.
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said that preliminary neuroimaging research shows that people that are developing gaming disorder symptoms and such … their brains show a diminished response to loss and an increased response to winning,” Radloff said. “When you win, you get a huge jolt. And when you lose, you don’t feel it as much.” Another aspect of gaming that can make it even more addictive is the social aspect, Radloff said. “The most popular games that tend to breed the most addictive playing or pathological playing tend to be ones where it’s either team-based, first-person shooters (or) massive, multiplayer, online role-playing games,” Radloff said. “You have the social component of friends you actually know or maybe people that you met on Facebook or Snapchat or Instagram or were just randomly assigned in the matchmaking system. … What matters in the real world bleeds into the online experience. That can reinforce it, because you feel like you have a responsibility to someone to show up for a clan war or something like that.” Although gaming can be addictive, Radloff said it is important for parents to not read too far into it at first. “It’s a good idea to have a little restraint and not over-pathologize internet gaming behaviors,” Radloff said. “It could also just be it’s the cool, new, shiny thing that all their friends are playing. It could go on for six or eight months of compulsive behavior, and then there’s a new, bright, shiny thing that they move to.” Although it likely won’t be the case for most children, some can even turn gaming into a career, Radloff said.
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HEALTH MATTERS
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OCTOBER 2019
Dr. Shweta Patel, OB/GYN “I think my goal in our community is to provide a little bit different level of care, because I approach it as education instead of care and, hopefully, patients will respond to that and it has a positive impact on our community.” — Dr. Shweta Patel
Dr. Patel’s philosophy is that women who are educated about their health will make better-informed decisions regarding their bodies. AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR
As an obstetrics and gynecology physician, Dr. Shweta Patel believes in empowering her female patients to stay informed and in charge of their health care. “When I first started practicing in residency as a physician, I found that a lot of patients don’t have the information I think they need to better comply with their care,” Patel said. “For instance, telling someone to do something as opposed to telling them why they do something. “Education is the best way to empower your patients, because … if they understand … they’re more likely to ask questions and follow up,” she said. “I think it leads to a better likelihood of compliance.” And with this compliance comes better overall health, she said. “I do a lot of teaching when I see patients,” Patel said. “There’s usually a lot of drawing involved. I have them envision what is involved. … It’s a true partnership.” Patel’s office is at the new Orlando Health Medical Pavilion — Horizon West, and she sees patients there and at Health Central Hospital. She delivers babies at Winnie
Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies. Orlando Health has two Physicians Associates groups, and Patel leads the newly formed group of doctors. She coordinates schedules, handles administrative duties and makes sure the physicians follow a standardized practice of care. Working in the medical field has appealed to Patel since high school, where she took advantage of the premedical program
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that was offered. “I think it has to do with the fact that growing up I was surrounded by a lot of it,” she said. “It just allowed for me to get more fascinated at an early age. It was a great exposure at a time when I was very eager to learn more about the medical sciences.” She earned her medical degree at the University of
Buffalo School of Medicine, in New York. She then joined the U.S. Navy Medical Corps as an officer in 2003, where she completed her obstetrics and gynecology internship and residency. She served as a lieutenant commander and staff physician until 2016. Patel estimates she delivered 200 babies a year while in the Navy. The overall number of deliveries reaches close to 1,500, she said. “The best part … is the ability to stay with my patients through their overall life care, from birth to contraception to sexual well-being and up to menopause … and prolapse and considering them for a hysterectomy,” Patel said. “If they need surgery, I can offer that too. “In a way, I feel like it’s one of the rare fields left that I can stay with the patients during their entire life,” she said. “That, and I like to operate.” Orlando Health’s Dr. Shweta Patel keeps an office at the new Horizon West medical pavilion, sees patients at Health Central Hospital in Ocoee and delivers children at Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies. Courtesy photo
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HEALTH MATTERS
OrangeObserver.com
It’s a male problem, too Although pink is the official color to signify October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the diagnosis isn’t only for women. TROY HERRING SPORTS EDITOR
Every October, organizations, businesses and other entities put on pink and raise money — all in the name of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The monthlong event has become a part of American culture and helps bring awareness to one of the most common forms of cancer that women — one in eight, to be precise — in the United States will face. It’s also a time to shine a light on something that rarely gets discussed: Breast cancer in men. Although most relate the diagnosis to women, it also is a concern for men, said Dr. Regan Rostorfer — a breast cancer specialist at the Orlando Health UF Health Cancer Center. “It is significantly less common, but it is not unheard of,” Rostorfer said. “I cannot remember the most recent stats off the top of my head, but there is something like 240,000 to 250,000 breast cancer diagnoses, and the far bulk of those are women. Male breast cancer is 1/100 of that of women’s breast cancer, so female breast cancers are about 100 times more common.” Rostorfer — board-certified in medical oncology, hematology and internal medicine — has worked with a small handful of men who have battled breast cancer. Although many would think the
disease would be different between women and men, it actually isn’t, Rostorfer said. UNDERSTANDING MEN’S BREAST CANCER
One of the main reasons why breast cancer is so much rarer in men is that men have less breast tissue. That men have breast tissue at all is often one of the most shocking things for those who enter Rostorfer’s office. “Men do have breast tissue — much to their surprise sometimes — but men also don’t have the same hormonal stimulation,” Rostorfer said. “(Men) aren’t exposed to the same level or type of hormones throughout life. There is clearly some correlation between the types of hormones and the length of time you’re stimulated by certain hormones.” Although men aren’t exposed to the same hormones in that manner, there are other variables that factor into breast cancer. With more information collected on the disease, there is evidence that supports the idea that some people have a genetic disposition to breast cancer. Some men inherit abnormal genes — specifically mutations to the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes — that put them at higher risks of developing breast cancer and other cancers. “If we ever have a male patient dealing with breast cancer, one of the standard recommendations
— if you follow any of the cancer guidelines — is to test that man for a genetic mutation to see if he carries a BRCA mutation or some other type of risk factor,” Rostorfer said. Often, when Rostorfer is working with women dealing with breast cancer, there is the fear of passing it down to their daughters. The chances are 50/50 that it could be passed down, Rostorfer said, but the disease also can be passed down to their sons — a possibility many women do not realize at first. Along with genetics, family history — an obvious factor — and obesity also affect the likelihood of developing breast cancer, Rostorfer said. SIGNS AND TREATMENTS
One of the hardest parts about diagnosing breast cancer in men is that there are no regular screenings for men. Although women are encouraged to have annual mammograms, the only “screening” for men is a regular physical examination. “If you kind of look at all men versus all women with breast cancer, men are a little bit more likely to present with a more advanced stage of cancer compared to women, and that’s because we don’t have screening processes for men,” Rostorfer said. “A lot of men can be kind of embarrassed by this, or they think it’s not possibly cancer. Based on those
“If you kind of look at all men versus all women with breast cancer, men are a little bit more likely to present with a more advanced stage of cancer compared to women, and that’s because we don’t have screening processes for men.” — Dr. Regan Rostorfer Orlando Health UF Health Cancer Center
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OCTOBER 2019
things, they don’t get a quick diagnosis.” There are a few symptoms that occur in men with breast cancer; the most obvious is a lump found in the breast. Other symptoms include an inverted nipple, skin changes of the breast or even an enlarged lymph node. In the case that any of those symptoms occur, Rostorfer said, the best option is to have a mammogram and ultrasound done. If the doctor thinks it’s problematic, a needle biopsy will be performed. “If we see that it’s cancer, there are a lot more questions that come up,” Rostorfer said. “We look at different types of hormonal markers — (such as) estrogen receptor and then a different protein marker called HER2 — and then depending on which of those is positive or negative, it could make a very different treatment plan for the cancer.” Treatment options for men range based on the individual and often include using surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, hormone manipulation or a combination to battle the cancer. Surprisingly, the types of breast cancers and the treatment options are almost the exact same between men and women — though there are a few exceptions, Rostorfer said. Although there are many ways for both men and women to prevent or treat breast cancer, the best advice that Rostorfer offers is early detection. “It’s amazing to me how many people do not have doctors or who have not seen their primary care doctor in four years,” Rostorfer said. “If you don’t have anything major, a lot of people don’t go for that routine checkup, but having a doctor is really important.”
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HEALTH MATTERS
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OrangeObserver.com
OCTOBER 2019
Time to shine Dancing for Diabetes has given 10-year-old Horizon West resident Grace Abbruzzese a chance to meet other girls her age with the same disease. AMY QUESINBERRY COMMUNITY EDITOR
IF YOU GO DANCING FOR DIABETES WHAT: Dancing for Diabetes is an annual showcase of Central Florida dancers that has raised nearly $500,000 for Type 1 diabetes research. Performers will include children living with diabetes. WHEN: 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 9 WHERE: Bob Carr Theater, 401 W. Livingston St., Orlando TICKETS: Tickets are $15 to $35 and can be purchased online at drphillipscenter.org. INFORMATION: dancingfordiabetes.org
ABOUT
Dancing for Diabetes is a nonprofit organization dedicated to utilizing the art of dance to better educate the community, raise funds to find a cure and inspire those with diabetes to live healthy and active lives. Its founder, Elizabeth Forrest, was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at age 10. She serves as a resource for Seminole County Public Schools and has worked with AdventHealth as panel leader for the 2018 World Diabetes Day Panel.
with Type 1 diabetes. When she’s with them, she isn’t the only one wearing a continuous glucose monitor and an insulin pump. She’s just like everyone else in the room. The group meets on Saturdays to practice the dance. Abbruzzese said she is grateful for the community at Dancing with Diabetes — for her daughter and for herself.
Courtesy photos
“While the girls are in their studio doing their part of the dance, us moms can bounce things off each other and get advice and tips,” Abbruzzese said. “Some of us are new to this, and … it’s a really, really great community. Prior to Grace’s diagnosis, I didn’t know anything about Type 1 diabetes.” DFD also hosts an event designed to educate parents and caregivers. After learning Grace had the disease, Abbruzzese attended a Touched by Type 1 program to learn about nutrition and caring for children with Type 1. She walked away with a great deal of helpful tips, she said. For instance, rotating the insulin pump to different areas on her body keeps scar tissue from forming. And since receiving the pump in February, Grace has become more independent. “Especially at school, because I was going up to the school every
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• Post Acute Rehabilitation • Physical, Occupational, and Speech Therapy • Specialty Nursing Services • Wound Care • Nutritional Therapy We accept Medicare and most insurance plans. Please call our admissions office for details and to schedule a tour.
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day to give her an injection at lunch,” Abbruzzese said. There are three primary types of Diabetes (Type 1, Type 2 and gestational). Type 1 was once known as juvenile diabetes or insulindependent diabetes. It is a chronic condition in which the pancreas produces little or no insulin. “Grace’s diagnosis has definitely changed our lives; it has become more stressful and we worry about her even more now, and also I don’t sleep as much since we are constantly trying to keep her blood sugars in the normal range,” Abbruzzese said. “It’s great that she has the Dancing for Diabetes group to be a part of. It’s really great for Grace to be around other kids her age who are also managing Type 1 diabetes and good for us parents, as well, to have other parents to connect with who can relate.”
Great Choices for for Maitland Seniors and Their Families
Savannah
Court, Grand, Cottage and Cove
• 24-hour access to trained, caring associates • Restaurant-style dining • Supervision with the activities of daily living • Diverse activities program • Linen/housekeeping service • Emergency response system • Scheduled transportation • Pub, Game Room, Theater
Savannah Court, Grand, Cottage and Cove communities offer gracious hospitality within comfortable and elegant surroundings. In Maitland, we provide a full range of supportive services at two conveniently located communities—perfect choices for seniors in need of assisted living, memory support or skilled nursing and rehabilitative care. Come for a visit and find out why Savannah Court, Grand, Cottage and Cove retirement communities have enhanced the lives of our residents and their families for over 20 years.
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www.SavannahGrandMaitland.com Community
302009-1
Grace Abbruzzese, who was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes last year, is one of the performers at the Nov. 9 Dancing Diabetes event.
When one member of the family is diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, it affects the entire household. Such is the case for 10-year-old Grace Abbruzzese, who lives in Horizon West and was diagnosed with the disease in February 2018. “Prior to her diagnosis, we never looked at food labels, we had no need to look at food labels,” said her mother, Pam Abbruzzese. “But that’s the main thing — we have to count the carbohydrates that she eats, and we’re measuring all the food. We weigh it and measure it, but it’s helped us become more aware of what we’re eating.” Abbruzzese said Grace has no restrictions; she just has to have insulin when she eats a small, sugary snack. “When her sugar is low, she gets to eat something like Mike and Ike’s,” Abbruzzese said. “She would much rather have low blood sugar than high, because then she can have sugar, she can have her candy. … And depending on how low it is, she can only have two or three. It’s not like she’s having a box or anything.” The trick is to eat just enough sugar to bump the levels up to an acceptable number. Grace has found her tribe with the Dancing for Diabetes program, where she has met other children
HEALTH MATTERS
OrangeObserver.com
Quibbles on bits The Food and Drug Administration launched an investigation into grain-free pet food last July. The question: Is grain-free good for your pet? DANIELLE HENDRIX ASSOCIATE EDITOR
With fad diets including keto, gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan dominating the healthy lifestyle conversation, it can be difficult enough for humans to discern what type of nutrition is best for their needs and lifestyle. And now, that trend is spreading to the four-legged members of the family, too. Pet owners now also are facing more decisions than ever when it comes to fueling their furry friends. Choosing food for your pet has become more than just running to the pet store and picking up a bag of kibble. More voices have entered the sphere of discussion, including veterinarians and stakeholders in the arena of nutrition, and there is more to consider. Some say it is best to prepare your pet’s food yourself at home, while others advocate for a raw diet. One of the newer trends in pet nutrition, though, is grainfree food. Veterinarian Dr. Lorie Huston writes on PetMD that grain- and gluten-free diets are particularly helpful for people who have celiac disease, wheat allergies or gluten intolerance. “Many pet owners choose to mimic their own food choices when choosing a food for their
pet,” Huston wrote. “With the increase in the number of people choosing to consume a grainfree or gluten-free diet, pet food manufacturers have recognized that similar pet diets are attractive to pet owners.” Although this has led to an abundance of grain- and glutenfree pet foods on the market, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has been investigating reports of canine dilated cardiomyopathy, or DCM, in dogs eating certain pet foods, many labeled as “grain-free,” since July 2018. According to the FDA, the foods in question contained a high proportion of peas, lentils, other legume seeds and/ or potatoes in various forms as main ingredients. Between January 2014 and April 2019, the FDA received 524 reports of DCM (515 canine reports, nine feline
reports), about 222 of which were reported between December 2018 and April 2019. While some large breeds can have genetic predispositions for DCM, many of these cases involved smalland medium-sized breeds. The American Veterinary Medical Association estimates there are 77 million pet dogs in the United States. According to the FDA, it is not known how commonly dogs develop DCM, “but the increase in reports to FDA signal a potential increase in cases of DCM in dogs not genetically predisposed.” The FDA’s February 2019 update stated that in cases in which dogs ate a single primary diet, 90% reported feeding a grain-free food. “The FDA is working with the pet food industry to better understand whether changes in ingredients, ingredient sourcing, processing or formulation may
“Corn, wheat, and barley — they’re terrible for dogs. They’re inflammatory, they cause all kinds of skin and ear problems. My whole practice has gone to grain-free dog food, and in the entire time I’ve been doing this, I’ve never seen a case of DCM in a dog.” — Dr. Michael Wright, The Wright Pet Nutrition
have contributed to the development of DCM,” the FDA stated. Ocoee-based veterinarian Dr. Michael Wright, who owns The Wright Pet Nutrition, said the FDA now has released three reports on this case, but there still is no proof that DCM is linked to grain-free food. Wright said although the theory is being researched, there currently is no data to support it. Wright, a holistic veterinarian, specializes in Nutrition Response Testing, a tool for focusing on a pet’s health problem(s) and providing specific individualized treatment. In his experiences, many grain-based dog foods have adverse effects on the pet’s health. “I still don’t believe (grainfree food) is the cause of (DCM),” Wright said. “I do a thing called muscle testing, a tool that I use to assess whether the patient tests well for a particular food. Corn, wheat and barley, they’re terrible for dogs. They’re inflammatory, they cause all kinds of skin and ear problems. My whole practice has gone to grain-free dog food, and in the entire time I’ve been doing this, I’ve never seen a case of DCM in a dog.” Wright said he believes there is another underlying cause that hasn’t been uncovered, possibly a toxicity. With muscle testing, Wright tests for chemicals and metals showing up in his clients. Heavy metal or chemical toxicity can lead to such adverse health conditions. “They’re not doing any of these when they’re examining these dogs — they’re just looking for common traits,” Wright said. “(Ninety percent) reported the commonality was grain-free dog foods, and what they claim is the deficiency of taurine. One of the companies I use and tests well is Fromm. When I contacted Fromm and spoke with them, they said they’ve been fortifying their food with taurine.” Wright added this connection has not been proven, and when looking at the number of cases in relationship to the number of dogs in the United States, it’s a minuscule number. Wright added that he typically sees homemade, grain-free and raw-food diets as those that test well. However, each animal is different and has different needs and dietary reactions. Veterinarian Dr. Angela Chesanek, who owns Chain of Lakes Animal Clinic in Summerport Village, views the grain-free diet more as a trend and recommends her clients avoid it. “As far as the grain-free diets, I think a lot of it was very trendy and not necessarily based on
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OCTOBER 2019
“My recommendation now is the one thing you want to avoid is a grainfree diet. The other thing they’re telling us is to avoid boutique-style dog foods, meaning not a big company with nutrition studies behind them that employ veterinary nutritionists.” — Dr. Angela Chesanek, Chain of Lakes Animal Clinic
health and needs of pets,” Chesanek said. “I compare it to the gluten-free craze in people. Gluten-free became very trendy, but the vast majority of people who buy those products aren’t necessarily directed to do so by their doctor. A large portion of the pet-food market started going grain free.” Because the FDA listed several dog-food brands that are linked to these cases under investigation, Chesanek believes there is validity to the claims. “They think it’s that the ingredients they’re substituting for the grain seems to make it so (pets are) not absorbing the amino acids,” Chesanek said. “It’s well believed throughout many veterinary cardiologist groups now that there’s an association.” She added that her practice sent an email to its clients over the summer alerting them of the FDA investigation. Many veterinary cardiologists are recommending that pet owners avoid boutique, exotic-ingredient and grain-free diets, she said. “My recommendation now is the one thing you want to avoid is a grain-free diet,” she said. “The other thing they’re telling us is to avoid boutique-style dog foods, meaning not a big company with nutrition studies behind them that employ veterinary nutritionists. A lot of the smaller companies just don’t have that. I would encourage people to ask their veterinarians what to feed their pets and not necessarily maybe the employees of a pet supermarkettype place, because I think their veterinarian is the person to ask. People need to ask whoever they see and trust to take care of their pets.”
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1551 Boren Drive, Suite A • Ocoee, FL 34761 Wellington Esquea, PA-C • Dr. Bindu Parekattil Dr. Shaista Usmani • Dr. Shahid Usmani
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Call 407-395-2037 • www.OcoeeKidsDocs.com
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HEALTH MATTERS
HEALTH CALENDAR
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OrangeObserver.com
OCTOBER 2019
SUNDAY, OCT. 20
BEARY HEALTHY 5K CHALLENGE: OKTOBEARFEST! 7:30 to 10:30 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 20, at Cinépolis Hamlin, 14111 Shoreside Way, Winter Garden. Join Healthy West Orange, Bears Who Care and Orlando Health for the grand finale of the Beary Healthy 5K Challenge: OktoBEARfest! Visit healthywestorange.org.
MONDAY, OCT. 21
FAMILY YOGA 10:30 a.m. Mondays, Oct. 21 and 28; Nov. 4, 11, 18 and 25; Dec. 2, 9, 16 and 23 at the Winter Garden Branch Library, 805 E. Plant St., Winter Garden. Join us for family yoga, geared toward preschoolers, school-age children and their caregivers. Mats will be available. (407) 835-7323.
THURSDAY, OCT. 24
CHILDBIRTH EDUCATION CLASS 1 to 4 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 24, at Central Health Center, 832 W. Central Blvd., fourth floor Gardenia Room, Orlando. Topics include stages of labor, comfort techniques, breastfeeding information, postpartum and newborn care and more. (407) 858-1472.
SATURDAY, OCT. 26
CHICK-FIL-A 5K RUN 7:30 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 26, at the intersection of McKey Street and Bluford Avenue, Ocoee. As part of Ocoee Founders’ Day, the CFA 5K is open to everyone regardless of running ability or experience. All paid pre-registered race participants will receive a race packet goody bag with promotional items, T-shirt, snacks, bottled water and access to the race-day festivities. All pre-registered participants also will receive a participation medal. For more information or to register, visit ocoeefoundersfestival. org/event/chick-fil-a-5k-run. HALLOWEEN SPOOKY SPRINT 5K 7 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 26, at Winter Garden Village, 3041 Daniels Road, Winter Garden. This isn’t a trick — it’s the best Halloween-themed run around! Treat yourself and the whole family to this themed fun run. All 5K and one-mile participants receive a race shirt and medal. Kids race participants receive a shirt, finisher ribbon and trick-or-treat bucket. For more information or to register, visit floridarunningco.com.
FRIDAY, NOV. 1
CAR SEAT CLASSES 9 a.m. to noon, Nov. 1 and Dec. 6 at Healthy Start Coalition of Orange County’s Ocoee Service Center, 475 W. Story Road, Suite 1, Ocoee. Three out of four car seats are installed incorrectly. In the Safe Ride 4 Babies car seat class, attendees will learn how to properly install a car seat in an instructional class setting. The second portion of the class is spent outside actually installing the car seat into your car. The class costs $30, and attendees will receive a convertible car seat valued at $90. For more, visit healthystartorange.org.
SATURDAY, NOV. 2
HEALTHY WEST ORANGE HEALTH & HARVEST FESTIVAL 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 2, at the Winter Garden Farmers Market, downtown Winter Garden. This event will feature free games, giveaways, fitness classes, cooking and gardening lessons and more. Take your bikes and cruise around Winter Garden with Wheelworks on a family bike ride, and get a free bike safety check, too. Free health screenings, CPR classes and activities will keep you on top of your health while you tap
your toes to the tunes played by DJ Mix On Wheels. Visit healthywestorange.org.
TUESDAY, NOV. 5
MINDFULNESS MEDITATION 6 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 5, at the Southwest Branch Library, 7255 Della Drive, Orlando. Promote well-being through mindfulness meditation. Develop abilities to cope with stress and anxiety, and promote well-being through mindfulness meditation. Meditation coach Lucia Beninati has practiced meditation for several years. For beginners to advanced; ages 13 and up. Registration preferred; walk-ins welcome. Chairs provided. (407) 835-7323.
WEDNESDAY, NOV. 6
STRESS BUSTER ART: PAPER ROLL PAINTING 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 6, at the Southwest Branch Library, 7255 Della Drive, Orlando. Join the library for a de-stressing art adventure using paper rolls to create a painting. No art experience needed. All supplies are provided. For women and men ages 18 and up. Registration required. Limited seating. (407) 835-7323.
THURSDAY, NOV. 7
AARP DRIVER SAFETY PROGRAM 9 a.m. to noon Thursday, Nov. 7, and Friday, Nov. 8, at Sonata West, 420 Roper Road, Winter Garden. Take a driver’s license and AARP membership card, if you are a member. (407) 654-3530 Ext. 3145507948.
TUESDAY, NOV. 12
RESTORATIVE YOGA WITH JEN LARSEN 6 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 12, at the Southwest Branch Library, 7255 Della Drive, Orlando. Join the library for restorative and gentle yoga. Focus on slow, intentional movement and deep breathing. For all experience levels. Taught by Jen Larsen, of Innerglow Wellness. Registration required. For ages 15 and older. (407) 835-7323.
WEDNESDAY, NOV. 13
NATURE WALK BOOK CLUB 10 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 13, at the Southwest Branch Library, 7255 Della Drive, Orlando. Do you enjoy taking a walk and love to discuss books? Join the Southwest Library for a casual walk followed by a lively discussion of the book “On Looking: Eleven Walks with Expert Eyes” by Alexandra Horowitz. A copy of the book may be reserved at bit.ly/2kwRYD9. Attendees are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing and shoes. Light refreshments provided. Meet at the Southwest Library for carpool to a local park walking trail. Registration required. For ages 18 and older. In case of inclement weather, contact southwest@ocls. info or call (407) 835-7323.
THURSDAY, NOV. 14
FAMILY SELF-DEFENSE WITH VICTORY MARTIAL ARTS 4 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 14, at the Windermere Branch Library, 530 Main St., Windermere. Victory Martial Arts will teach you and your family the basics of self defense. This event is for the whole family; registration required. (407) 835-7323.
SATURDAY, NOV. 16
AGELESS GRACE: BODY AND BRAIN FITNESS 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 16, at the Southwest Branch Library, 7255 Della Drive, Orlando. Experience simple, playful exercise based on the science of neuroplasticity. Learn tools that work your brain and body. Led by certified Ageless Grace educators. Registration required; ages 18 and older. (407) 835-7323.
MONDAY, NOV. 25
AARP DRIVER SAFETY PROGRAM 9 a.m. to noon Monday, Nov. 25, and Tuesday, Nov. 26, at Jessie Brock Community Center, 310 N. Dillard St., Winter Garden. Take a driver’s license and AARP membership card, if you are a member. (407) 656-4155.
WEDNESDAY, NOV. 27
CRAFT AND CHAT 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 27, at the Southwest Branch Library, 7255 Della Drive, Orlando. Bring your own craft project and supplies. Chat and meet new people while you work on your craft or be inspired to learn a new one. For ages 18 and older. (407) 835-7323.
FRIDAY, DEC. 6
STORIES AND STRETCHES 10:30 a.m. Friday, Dec. 6, at the Southwest Branch Library, 7255 Della Drive, Orlando. Calling all little yogis and wiggleworms! Join the library for a special movement storytime focusing on motor development that is filled with stories, songs and fun. Recommended for toddlers and preschoolers. (407) 835-7323.
THURSDAY, JAN. 16, 2020
FANTASTIC FAMILY FITNESS FIASCO 4 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 16, 2020, at the Windermere Branch Library, 530 Main St., Windermere. Get moving and work together with your family to complete challenges and have fun. Recommended for families. (407) 835-7323.
SATURDAY, JAN. 25
FEELING GOOD 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 25, at the Winter Garden Branch Library, 805 E. Plant St., Winter Garden. Learn some chill skills with selfcalming techniques, tips and tricks. Recommended for lower and upper elementary. (407) 8357323.
THURSDAY, JAN. 30
FUEL, FUN, FITNESS 3:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan., 30, at the Windermere Branch Library, 530 Main St., Windermere. What are the best foods to eat to fuel your body before a fun workout? Get ready, eat a snack and get active. Recommended for lower and upper elementary. (407) 835-7323.
CLASSES & GROUPS
AUTISM GYM PROGRAM 6:15 to 7:15 p.m. Tuesdays at the Jim Beech Recreation Center, 1820 A.D. Mims Road, Ocoee. It is open to all ages and disabilities. Any family member is welcome. It is an open gym night so kids of all ages can run, jump and play while the parents talk and relax. For more, visit ocoee.org/155/YouthPrograms. 50+ EXERCISE CLASS 10 a.m. Mondays and Wednesdays at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 4851 S. Apopka-Vineland Road, Orlando. For more, visit st.lukes.org/sports, email sports@ st.lukes.org. 50+ STRENGTH CLASS 9:30 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 4851 S. Apopka-Vineland Road, Orlando. For more, visit st.lukes.org/sports, email sports@ st.lukes.org or call (407) 8764991, Ext. 290. ALZHEIMER’S & DEMENTIA SUPPORT 6 p.m. the second Tuesday of the month in the second-floor conference room at Health Central Hospital, 10000 W. Colonial Drive, Ocoee. For more, call (407) 8431910. CHAIR EXERCISE 8:45 a.m. Tuesdays at the Tom Ison Seniors and Veterans Center, 1701 Adair St., Ocoee. This program is through the West Orange Seniors organization. Teresa or Mike Varela, (407) 592-4498. CHAIR/STRETCH EXERCISE 8:45 a.m. Fridays at the Tom Ison Seniors and Veterans Center, 1701 Adair St., Ocoee. This program is through the West Orange Seniors organization. Teresa or Mike Varela, (407) 592-4498. GENTLE YOGA 7:15 p.m. Tuesdays at the Jessie Brock Community Center, 310 N. Dillard St., Winter Garden. The next session begins June 3. This class is great for beginners or anyone who wants to learn the basics of yoga. Cost is $9 for residents or $10 for non-residents per class; or $32 for residents and $36 for nonresidents per four-week session. For more, call (407) 656-4155.
HEALTH MATTERS
OrangeObserver.com
GENTLE YOGA 9:30 a.m. Fridays at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 4851 S. Apopka-Vineland Road, Orlando. For more, visit st.lukes.org/sports, email sports@st.lukes.org or call (407) 876-4991, Ext. 290.
walk/jog and socialize. All skill levels are welcome. To join the group or for more information, visit facebook.com/groups/centralflorida. mrtt, email mrttcentralfl@gmail. com or visit momsrunthistown. com/centralfl.
HEALTH CENTRAL WALKERS 8:30 a.m. daily at the West Oaks Mall, 9401 W. Colonial Drive, No. 728, Ocoee. If you enjoy walking and want to stay in shape, you will love the Health Central Walkers program. No matter your age or fitness level, you can participate in a clean, climate-controlled environment. Perfect for year-round walking. This program is perfect for new moms with strollers, too. To sign up for the free program and to get started, visit the Registration Team from 9 to 10 a.m. Mondays through Fridays in the food court.
PRESCHOOL YOGA 10:15 to 11 a.m. Tuesdays, Sept. 10 to Oct. 29, at the Jessie Brock Community Center, 310 N. Dillard St., Winter Garden. Classes introduce children to yoga using age appropriate stories to practice yoga poses, breathing, exercises and meditation. This program helps with focus, attention and self-regulation. Cost is $60 for residents and $70 for non-residents per eight-week session. For more, call (407) 656-4155.
JAZZERCISE 7 to 8 p.m. Tuesdays through Thursdays and 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Saturdays at the Jessie Brock Community Center, 310 N. Dillard St., Winter Garden. This is a high-intensity dance workout that mixes modern moves with strength training. Ages 18 and older. Cost is $15 per class or $45 per four-week session. For more, call (407) 656-4155. LINE DANCING 10 a.m. Tuesdays at the Tom Ison Seniors and Veterans Center, 1701 Adair St., Ocoee. This program is through the West Orange Seniors organization. Teresa or Mike Varela, (407) 592-4498. MOMS RUN THIS TOWN The Central Florida chapter of this women’s running club invites local women to get together to run/
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OCTOBER 2019
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NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS
SYSTEMA 7 to 8:30 p.m. Mondays at the Jessie Brock Community Center, 310 N. Dillard St., Winter Garden. This Russian martial art focuses on self-defense methods, greater strength and endurance. Cost is $15 per class; or $45 for residents and $55 for non-residents per four-week session. Ages 18 and older. (407) 656-4155.
Why Choose Us? We promise to provide our patients with the ultimate care in Orthodontics by delivering the highest quality of technical care, and treating our patients with respect, courtesy, and compassion.
TAI CHI 9 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Jessie Brock Community Center, 310 N. Dillard St., Winter Garden. Cost is $50 for residents and $55 for nonresidents per month. Ages 18 and older. For more information, visit returntogoodhealth.20fr.com.
Personal Service
WEIGHT WATCHERS 5:30 p.m. Mondays at the Jessie Brock Community Center, 310 N. Dillard St., Winter Garden. For more information, call (407) 6564155.
You aren’t just a patient. We take an interest in you and your oral health needs. We think you’ll find a friend in your dental professional during your visit!
Care and Commitment From the front office to the exam room, your safety and comfort are our priority. Using state of the art equipment designed with safety and efficiency in mind, we are able to offer top-notch care.
407.297.0080 For All Your Growing Needs!
Afra Ali, MD •
Larissa Negron, MD •
Amber Eastwood, APRN • Maryann Dunn, APRN • Ana Souto,CPNP •
The cost of care can be confusing. We offer a number of in-office payment options, are in network with a variety of insurance plans, offer various forms of financing, and give up-front cost information on your treatment.
Start your journey to a smile that will last a lifetime!
Call (407) 258-3262 DR. LAURIS JOHNSON, DMD
7635 Ashley Park Court, Suite 501 Orlando, FL 32835 407.297.0080 www.windermerepediatrics.org Monday-Thursday 8-6:30 Friday 8-5:30 Saturday 9-1
Dr. Johnson is passionate about helping her patients achieve the results they seek through the development of a treatment plan that meets their objectives. Beyond helping her patients achieve a beautiful smile, she focuses on helping them attain a higher level of self confidence and an improved functionality of their teeth. Learn more at myfamilyortho.com 7848 Winter Garden Vineland Rd, Suite 100, Windermere
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Denise Serafin, MD, FAAP •
Providing comprehensive health care that compassionately supports infants, children and adolescents through every stage of their lives.
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Ginny Guyton, MD, FAAP •
Honest and Affordable
HEALTH MATTERS
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OrangeObserver.com
OCTOBER 2019
ADVERTORIAL
ORLANDO HEALTH I HEALTH CENTRAL HOSPITAL EXPANDS ROBOTIC SURGERY PROGRAM To continue providing the most advanced surgical options to its patients, Orlando Health I Health Central Hospital has expanded its robotic program and added a second robot. During robotic surgery, the surgeon is assisted by the use of miniaturized surgical tools attached to three or four robotic arms that enable highly precise movements not always possible with the human hand. The surgeon also has the advantage of viewing a high-definition, 3D image transmitted by a tiny camera (called a laparoscope) from inside the patient’s body.
Complex surgeries are performed through just a few small incisions, resulting in less scarring and minimal trauma to surrounding tissue. Patients require less pain medicine, and robotic surgeries typically have fewer complications. Shorter hospital stays and recovery times mean patients can return to their normal activities sooner. Orlando Health I Health Central offers robotic-assisted options for: • General surgery (such as hernias and appendectomies) • Colorectal surgery • Weight loss/bariatric surgery
In its first year, Orlando Health I Health Central’s robotic surgery program saw more than 400 cases. According to the manufacturer of da Vinci Robotic Surgical System®, most hospitals similar in size to Orlando Health I Health Central achieve this number of cases only after two to three years.
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For more information about robotic surgery at Orlando Health, visit OrlandoHealth.com/HealthCentralRoboticSurgery
ROBOTIC-ASSISTED SURGERY FOR
A FASTER RECOVERY. A leader in robotic-assisted surgery, Orlando Health – Health Central Hospital is pleased to offer the benefits of this advanced minimally invasive technology. Using robotic surgery techniques, our surgeons gain enhanced visibility, flexibility and control performing your surgery. For you, that means less pain, smaller incisions and faster healing.
OrlandoHealth.com/RoboticSurgery (321) 841-9365
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