The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Cosmetic surgery that enhances your original beauty

By

Dr. Manek Bedi

JULY 23, 2020 BY SPECIAL TO THE LAKER/LUTZ NEWS

When you walk into Tampa Surgical Arts, there is soft music playing, calming aromas and restful furniture — not the typical sterile environment found in a traditional facial and cosmetic surgeon’s office.

Making sure his patients feel relaxed and comfortable is a priority for Dr. Manik Bedi, owner of Tampa Surgical Arts, and facial and cosmetic surgery center in Odessa.

“I always put myself in the client’s shoes. If I were to go into an office to get a procedure, I would want to feel comfortable every step of the way,” says Dr. Bedi.

Dr. Bedi has impressive credentials, and is one of few triple-board-certified surgeons in the greater Tampa area. He has a medical degree, and an oral and maxillofacial surgery certificate, from the University of Florida, earned a doctor of dental surgery from New York University, and was awarded a cosmetic surgery certificate from Tulsa Surgical Arts in Oklahoma.

Dr. Bedi is proud to offer patients a private surgical center, which is one of the area’s only accredited facilities. He offers a wide range of procedures, including smile makeovers with dental implants, wisdom teeth removal, eyelid surgery, ear pinning, facial implants, medical spa treatment, facelift, liposculpture and Brazilian Butt Lift.

Patients begin their visit in a private room with a treatment coordinator to talk about the procedures they are interested in. Then, Dr. Bedi comes in and spends time learning about their goals, and why they are considering facial cosmetic surgery. Together, they discuss the benefits and risks associated with the procedure, and then Dr. Bedi develops a comprehensive treatment plan that explains what happens before, during and after surgery.

A misconception some people have of cosmetic surgery is that it can look overdone or fake. Dr. Bedi assures patients that his surgeries always result in a natural look that enhances their original beauty.

Cosmetic and facial procedures give patients an instant boost of confidence, and this change in self-perception is one of the most rewarding parts of Dr. Bedi’s job.

“I love that I have the ability to change people’s lives and help them regain the confidence they once had, by achieving a desired look they never thought they could achieve,” says Dr. Bedi.

A unique feature you’ll find at Tampa Surgical Arts is that right after surgery, patients wake up to a delicious smoothie made just for them.

To schedule your free consultation with Dr. Bedi, please contact Tampa Surgical Arts today. The practice abides by all COVID-19 safety procedures.

17751 Gunn Highway, Odessa
(813) 694-7242, TampaSurgicalArts.com

By Kelli Carmack

Published July 22, 2020

Cosmetic surgery that enhances your original beauty

By

When you walk into Tampa Surgical Arts, there is soft music playing, calming aromas and restful furniture — not the typical sterile environment found in a traditional facial and cosmetic surgeon’s office.

Making sure his patients feel relaxed and comfortable is a priority for Dr. Manik Bedi, owner of Tampa Surgical Arts, and facial and cosmetic surgery center in Odessa.

“I always put myself in the client’s shoes. If I were to go into an office to get a procedure, I would want to feel comfortable every step of the way,” says Dr. Bedi.

Dr. Manek Bedi

Dr. Bedi has impressive credentials, and is one of few triple-board-certified surgeons in the greater Tampa area. He has a medical degree, and an oral and maxillofacial surgery certificate, from the University of Florida, earned a doctor of dental surgery from New York University, and was awarded a cosmetic surgery certificate from Tulsa Surgical Arts in Oklahoma.

Dr. Bedi is proud to offer patients a private surgical center, which is one of the area’s only accredited facilities. He offers a wide range of procedures, including smile makeovers with dental implants, wisdom teeth removal, eyelid surgery, ear pinning, facial implants, medical spa treatment, facelift, liposculpture and Brazilian Butt Lift.

Patients begin their visit in a private room with a treatment coordinator to talk about the procedures they are interested in. Then, Dr. Bedi comes in and spends time learning about their goals, and why they are considering facial cosmetic surgery. Together, they discuss the benefits and risks associated with the procedure, and then Dr. Bedi develops a comprehensive treatment plan that explains what happens before, during and after surgery.

A misconception some people have of cosmetic surgery is that it can look overdone or fake. Dr. Bedi assures patients that his surgeries always result in a natural look that enhances their original beauty.

Cosmetic and facial procedures give patients an instant boost of confidence, and this change in self-perception is one of the most rewarding parts of Dr. Bedi’s job.

“I love that I have the ability to change people’s lives and help them regain the confidence they once had, by achieving a desired look they never thought they could achieve,” says Dr. Bedi.

A unique feature you’ll find at Tampa Surgical Arts is that right after surgery, patients wake up to a delicious smoothie made just for them.

To schedule your free consultation with Dr. Bedi, please contact Tampa Surgical Arts today. The practice abides by all COVID-19 safety procedures.

17751 Gunn Highway, Odessa
(813) 694-7242, TampaSurgicalArts.com

By Kelli Carmack

Published July 22, 2020

Memories are made, and honored here

By

The Pioneer Florida Museum and Village, a mile north of Dade City, has a collection of historic structures that help tell the story of Florida’s past. During non-COVID times, it’s also a place where lots of memories are made, during special community events, private events and school field trips. This photo captures one of those events. See the full story to learn more about the history of this East Pasco attraction.

The driver and hitchers of team Jason Abrell, of Russell Springs, Kentucky, try to calm their two horses, Dick and Cracker, during a Farm Festival and Quilt Show at the museum and pioneer village. (File)

Summer camp fun returns to East Pasco YMCA

By

In normal times, summer-camp kids at the East Pasco YMCA in Zephyrhills would be greeted with hugs and high-fives.

These aren’t normal times.

“Camp Cattle and Grove’’ almost is routine. It is still 10 weeks of swimming, games, activities, sports and education. But, it also includes social distancing, hand-washing, constant disinfecting and masking up. It’s summer camp in the COVID-19 era.

“It has been different, but some things haven’t changed,’’ said Alex Delgado, the East Pasco YMCA aquatics and program director who coordinates the camp. “Kids are kids. They love to see their friends. They love to have fun.

“They have been cooped up for a long time, so they are eager to get back at it. Sometimes, kids don’t understand what we’re doing. But, we make sure they don’t share supplies. We make sure every chair, every table, every basketball, every Lego, everything they use, is properly cleaned and disinfected. We’re all about having fun. But, we’re all about keeping them safe.’’

East Pasco YMCA officials Ryan Pratt, left, and Alex Delgado display the manual of activities for ‘Camp Cattle and Grove.’ (Joey Johnston)

Delgado and Ryan Pratt, the East Pasco YMCA membership and wellness director, initially wondered how the summer camp would be received. Would parents be wary? It has actually been the opposite. On the busiest week, 45 kids participated (last summer’s average was 34) and attendance has been pretty consistent.

“We actually had a pretty good trial run because we did 11 weeks of relief care (where working parents dropped off kids for all-day sessions during the school closures),’’ Pratt said. “We practiced social distancing. We saw what worked, what didn’t work. We felt pretty good about it.

“When summer camp rolled around, it was a little strange at first. We’re so used to physically encouraging them, but even the basic hug couldn’t be done this time. Some kids were uneasy at first. But, they got used to wearing masks. Pretty soon, it was, ‘Hey, this is summer camp. I get to play games and swim.’ Now it seems really normal.’’

Delgado, who has produced a weekly newsletter to detail the camp’s activities for parents, said the older group of kids had a quick grasp on the new normal, which includes masks when there was no physical activity and persistent cleanliness. The younger kids have followed that example.

The only major camp difference is a lack of outside vendors. Last summer, camp included a mobile music bus and a petting zoo of farm animals. Now more caution has been exercised, although the kids have gotten visits from Kona Ice, and Culver’s Restaurant, which provided custard.

“It doesn’t take much for kids to have fun, really,’’ Delgado said. “They are creative and imaginative. Most days, they are having a blast.’’

Summer-camp kids enjoy pool activities at the East Pasco YMCA.

The East Pasco YMCA staff has been creative as well. Delgado and Pratt — along with executive director Michael Cosentino — are wiping down equipment, sweeping floors and cleaning bathrooms.

“Whatever works,’’ Pratt said. “We’re doing a few things maybe we weren’t doing pre-COVID. But, we are dedicated to making this a memorable and safe experience for all the kids.’’

That’s true for the community at large.

The East Pasco YMCA, which mostly serves Zephyrhills, Dade City and Wesley Chapel, has morphed back to life after weeks of COVID-forced inactivity.

“In general, the membership is slowly returning,’’ Pratt said. “Once the virus is over, we’ll keep things in place. This level of cleanliness and disinfecting will be the standard, so that is a positive.

“We’re trying to let the community know that we are ready when they are ready. A lot of businesses are struggling, but we are a business, too. We are creating a safe environment for the entire family. Little by little, we are coming back and we want to be receptive to everyone’s needs.’’

This summer, that begins with the camp kids.

“Just seeing the happy faces, the laughter and the fun, that makes everything worth it,’’ Delgado said. “Summer camp and kids makes you feel like everything is back in order.’’

By Joey Johnston

Published July 22, 2020

Hillsborough launches COVID-19 dashboard

By

Hillsborough County has launched a COVID-19 dashboard to help residents keep themselves better informed, to enable them make the best decisions to keep them and their families safe, according to a county news release.

The dashboard is accessible at HCFLgov.net/COVID19Dashboard.

The dashboard provides data on testing numbers, positive cases, and the number of COVID-19 patients being treated in local hospital systems.

Users can scroll through visual data charts and click on icons to review the information.

Most of the numbers are updated twice daily. The data related to coronavirus testing is updated once each week.

Sources for the data include the Florida Department of Health, Tampa General Hospital Data Exchange, the United States Census Bureau, and the Florida Office of Economic Development.

Published July 22, 2020

Reduce your risk of contracting COVID-19

By

The Florida Department of Health has issued some reminders, to help you reduce your risk of contracting COVID-19.

These are some things you can do:

  • Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water aren’t available, use alcohol-based hand sanitizer, containing at least 60% alcohol.
  • Wear a face mask. Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover when around others, or out in public, such as at a grocery store and other places.
  • Practice social distancing. Stay at least 6 feet away from other people.

Although people of any age can be infected by the virus, the health department reports that those who are most susceptible to serious health risks are those over age 65, and those with underlying health conditions, such as heart conditions, high blood pressure, lung conditions, diabetes and obesity.

Symptoms of COVID-19 can include the following: Cough, fever, chills, muscle pain, shortness of breath or difficulty in breathing, sore throat, new loss of taste or smell.

Symptom can range from mild to severe and appear two to 14 days after exposure to the virus that causes COVID-19.

If you think you may have been exposed to COVID-19, contact your health care provide. If you have trouble breathing, get emergency medical care immediately.

For more information about COVID-19, visit the Florida Department of Health’s website, at FloridaHealthCovid19.gov or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s website at CDC.gov.

Published July 22, 2020

Ice cream offers a sweet way to cool down

By

Americans do love their ice cream.

In fact, in 1984, President Ronald Reagan proclaimed July as National Ice Cream Month, and named the third Sunday in July — this past Sunday — as National Ice Cream Day.

It turns out that the United States is the No. 1 producer and consumer of ice cream in the world

One survey says that 41% of Americans consider ice cream to be their favorite dessert, and it identified the best-loved flavors as chocolate, vanilla, cookies and cream, and mint chocolate chip.

After making your vanilla ice cream, you can use it to prepare an ice cream sundae. Add flavored syrup, sprinkles, crunched candy, nuts, or other favorite toppings. For a final touch, add a cherry on top. (Courtesy of delish.com)

The origins of ice cream are not clear. Some sources trace a variation of it back to ancient China around 200 B.C., where a milk and rice mixture was kept frozen by packing it in the snow.

The Italian Explorer Marco Polo is said to have seen this during a trip to China and brought it back home in the 13th century, where it was enjoyed by the European elites and eventually made its way to North America.

While ice cream may have been created overseas, the ice cream sundae was born in the U.S.A., although exactly where it began remains in dispute.

The cities of Two Rivers, Wisconsin, and Ithaca, New York, have been battling for more than a century over bragging rights as the birthplace of the ice cream sundae.

Two Rivers claims it created the ice cream sundae in 1881; Ithaca claims it came up with the idea in 1892, according to Farmers Almanac.

While that battle rages on, there’s plenty of consensus on how the ice cream sundae got its name, and how it came about.

The ice cream sundae was the result of Blue Laws, which were religious laws enacted to restrict activities considered sinful.

Ice cream soda shops began emerging at pharmacy counters in the 1870s, but soon after, one Blue Law placed restricting the sale of soda on Sundays because it seemed too close to alcohol, which also was banned for Sunday consumption.

Ice cream sodas were very popular — pharmacies sold soda since the caffeine (among other things in soda) was considered medicinal back then.

Both cities claim that someone wanted an ice cream soda on a Sunday (pharmacies were essential and open on Sundays).

Not wanting to violate the Blue Laws, but also not wanting to serve just plain scoops of ice cream, the druggist (now called pharmacist) switched out the soda and put flavored sauce on top instead (Two Rivers said it was chocolate sauce, Ithaca said it was cherry sauce).

The popularity spread quickly.

Initially, it was known as the “Ice Cream Sunday.”

The origins of the spelling change to “sundae” are not quite known, but many believe it was either to not offend those who were religious or to make it clear that the treat could be enjoyed any day of the week and not just on Sundays.

Whatever the reasoning behind the change, it stuck.

Other things, however, have changed.

Ice cream is now widely available in grocery stores, and just the idea of ice cream being sold at the pharmacy counter seems outlandish.

Although many ice cream parlors have closed over time, specialty ice cream shops remain popular.

Ice cream also comes in dozens of flavors these days, including coffee, peanut butter, and birthday cake, to name just a few. It also can be made dairy-free.

And, because it’s National Ice Cream month, you may be able to take advantage of some special prices or freebies at ice cream shops through the end of July.

You can even try your hand at making a batch, and you don’t even need fancy equipment. (Check out the recipe).

Whether you make your own ice cream, or pick some up at a shop or a store — just remember to have fun, and stay cool.

By Shari Bresin

Shari Bresin is the Family & Consumer Science agent for the University of Florida/Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Cooperative Extension Pasco County.

Recipe
This recipe comes from delish.com; it uses plastic bags to make vanilla ice cream.

Ice cream in a bag 

Ingredients:
1 cup half-and-half
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
3 cups ice
1/3 cup kosher salt
Toppings of your choice 

Directions:
In a small resealable plastic bag, combine half-and-half, sugar and vanilla. Push out excess air and seal.

Into a large resealable plastic bag, combine ice and salt. Place contents of small bag inside the bigger bag and shake vigorously, 7 minutes to 10 minutes, until ice cream has hardened.

Note: Oven mittens or a dish towel will help to handle the cold bags.

Remove from bag and enjoy with your favorite ice cream toppings.

Published July 22, 2020

This shop creates tapestry of happy memories

By

Donna Lillibridge soon will close Quilts on Plum Lane — “The Friendliest Quilt Shop in Florida’’ — and life in downtown Dade City may never be quite the same.

After 17 years in business, Lillibridge simply believes it’s time to go.

It’s not because of COVID-19, she just wants time.

Time to organize her home, do some yardwork, hike new trails, go kayaking and make more memories with her family, including three grown children who live in the area.

She also will keep quilting, just for fun.

This sign welcomes quilting enthusiasts to Dade City’s Quilts on Plum Lane. (Joey Johnston)

But saying goodbye for good? It’s a bit more difficult than she imagined.

The shop has been a mingling place for friends, acquaintances and strangers — a 1,900-square-foot town square, where precious keepsakes were created, quilting classes were held and permanent relationships were forged.

“My goal was not just to sell fabric — anyone can do that,’’ Lillibridge said. “I wanted to help them be successful, so they can come back and do more. If they got stuck or didn’t quite know what they were doing, they could come here and learn. We have had very good teachers here. And, we’ve had so much fun along the way.’’

Lillibridge moved from her native California in 1971, first becoming a classroom teacher in Hillsborough County, then settling into a 30-year stint as a psychologist for Pasco County Schools. Along the way, she revived an interest in quilting, a way to be creative and pass the time, but the quilt shop she frequented was about to close.

“I’m not very good at sitting around,’’ Lillibridge said. “I need to keep busy.’’

She took a chance, opening a quilt shop of her own.

The name? It has a backstory.

When Lillibridge was 4 years old, she remembers walking a few blocks to her grandfather’s house for ice cream. It was a dark and spooky night. Her older brother was too scared to go. She traversed a little dirt alley, surrounded by plum trees. It seemed frightening for a child, but she got the ice cream and made it home.

“You have to take risks to get something you want,’’ Lillibridge said. “That’s why I named it ‘Quilts on Plum Lane.’ It reminds me of taking risks. And, it was definitely a risk. During the recession (2008), I had to borrow money off my house. It was dicey. But we made it. And it came back strong.”

Lillibridge said she will miss the little things — such as carrying flannel and personally dyeing the wool that attracted people from all around Central Florida. She will miss the women — and sometimes their husbands — who started by tentatively cutting the fabric, then got hooked on the craft. She even will miss dealing with various sales representatives, discovering new products and patterns, and finding a way to remain unique.

Donna Lillibridge’s customers and friends gave her a quilt to salute her 17-year tenure at Quilts on Plum Lane.

It always comes back to the people. She will miss the people.

“If you need something and they don’t have it, they go get it,’’ longtime customer Diane Alexander said. “I don’t know what I’ll do now. It’s like part of my life is going away.’’

“I think we’re going to be sorely missed,’’ said Darlene Leosh, who works at the shop. “If there was a class or presentation, Donna was there. If pillowcases were needed at the hospital, she headed that up. If somebody needed a gift basket, she was there.

“I’m trying not to think about the end — because the end isn’t here yet. But, when Donna retires, she can come to quilt camps with us. We can have more time to stitch together. We have enough fabric to last us a few lifetimes. The whole thing is about friendship and making new friends.’’

That was always the philosophy of Lillibridge, who lives three blocks away from the shop with her rambunctious golden doodle, Lola.

“This is a business and you have to be smart about it,’’ Lillibridge said. “You don’t order just what you like. You order what the customers want. You strive to give service that you don’t find at the big-box stores,” said the shop owner, who hasn’t decided the exact day Quilts on Plum Lane will close.

“When you quilt, you have something physical to show for it. Something that lasts. It’s not like playing golf,” Lillibridge said. “It’s a communal thing.”

As part of the send-off, Lillibridge’s co-workers, customers and friends gave her (what else?) a quilt filled with special messages, a tapestry of love that commemorates her contributions to the tight-knit hobby.

“My favorite shop and the best people ever!!! Thanks for being here. Happy times to you!!” — Catherine Coggins.

“Loved every minute and every stitch is precious.” — Becky Gammons.

“Have loved your shop and your girls. Enjoy your future.” — Marilyn Morey.

“Learned so much. Thanks for your support. God bless you much.” — Judith Harris.

“Have a great retirement. You so deserve it.” — Vicki Paquette.

“I am going to miss you Donna and your lovely shop. Have a great retirement and stay healthy.” — Dianne Penney.

Long after the shop closes, the warmth of the quilters’ words will live on.

By Joey Johnston

Published July 15, 2020

This award winner is equally at ease in a barn, or a classroom

By

Camryn Farquhar, an athlete and a scholar, keeps picking up awards.

Recently, she was named Pasco County’s Career Technical Education High School Student of the Year.

She also was named Wesley Chapel High School’s Outstanding Senior.

The barn makes a perfect backdrop, as Camryn Farquhar sports her Future Farmers of America jacket. (Courtesy of Camryn Farquhar)

And, those are just the latest of her many accolades.

She loves the classroom.

But, she feels most at home in the barn.

She grew up with horses. She used to raise hogs. Now it’s more about showing livestock, connecting with cows and learning all she can about the dairy industry.

“But, this is more than just farming,’’ Farquhar said.

The agriculture lifestyle, through the Future Farmers of America (FFA), includes training in business, leadership and public speaking. It included a stint as Champion Youth Ambassador for the Florida State Fair. It has propelled her to the University of Florida, where she plans a major in agricultural communications and education.

“When you say FFA, people sometimes have a preconceived idea of what it’s all about,’’ said Farquhar, who carried a 4.5 GPA and served in student government. “The truth is, it’s very important that the general public know about this industry. “It’s really important.

“It’s always nice to get honors, but I think it’s especially nice to be recognized in a field with so many great kids at our school and so many great kids throughout the county. I was just over the moon to be selected.’’

Farquhar, who competed in cross-country for Wesley Chapel and remains an active runner, always remembers being surrounded by animals. But, her interest really began when her mother, Erin, became an agriculture teacher.

Her mom came to the field by accident.

“I didn’t realize there were agriculture teacher jobs,’’ said Farquhar’s mother, a former special education teacher. “I was saying, ‘Why is there a barn at school?’ “But, when I stumbled into it and changed jobs, I immediately fell in love with it. It combines teaching with animals and plants. It probably would’ve been my passion earlier had I known it existed,” she said.

“It’s not like Camryn was pushed into this. She always had a natural interest. I know she got an award once and someone said, ‘Of course she did. Her mother is the ag teacher.’ But truly, she has made her own path. It’s not like we go home, sit around the kitchen table and talk about agriculture. She has developed this interest on her own.’’

Farquhar is the oldest (by 10 minutes) of triplets, along with siblings Ryan and Tifani, who are both headed to Florida State University. Ryan, who plays lacrosse and dabbles in FFA, plans a sports management major. Tifani, a projected criminology major, is best known as a standout diver, although she, too, has competed in FFA, but not to Camryn’s extent.

“We get compared to each other a lot, even though we are really different,’’ Farquhar said. “I think it’s an example of three people finding things they love and are passionate about, then following through. It’s not that one is better than the other. It’s just what you’re interested in.

“There were definitely advantages to having my mother be the (agriculture) teacher, but maybe some negative experiences, too, just an assumption that things were given to me. She has helped me and inspired me, but I worked pretty hard for everything I’ve done. It has mostly come about because I’ve loved it so much,” she said.

COVID-19 brought about a different way of celebrating Farquhar’s honors.

She learned of the CTE award (which included nominees from robotics, automotive, health and video production programs) through a Zoom call with school officials, including Pasco County Schools Superintendent Kurt Browning. At Wesley Chapel, the Outstanding Senior award was noted by administrators delivering balloons, flowers and confetti poppers, along with plenty of mentions on social media.

Farquhar had been a well-decorated performer before, having earned honors at the Florida State Fair and Pasco County Fair, along with being selected to a state dairy judging group.

“These awards bring more focus to our program and that’s great,’’ Farquhar’s mother said. “We’re trying to foster a love of agriculture for the kids. They can learn about nutrition, developing foods, animal systems, environmental protections, and maybe that could become a career. At the very least, they will become more educated and become better consumers. We’re thrilled when agriculture is seen in that light and part of all aspects of school, not just having a notion that they’re just the ‘cowgirls.’

“I think Camryn was very honored just to be nominated. She was humbled by that. To actually be selected was very touching and meaningful.”

By Joey Johnston

Published July 15, 2020

Caring for dad comes naturally for Vizzari sons

By

Vince Vizzari, a retired City of Tampa firefighter, was always there for his three sons. He coached them in baseball. He worked with them in Boy Scouts. He was available to help with a project or share some family time.

Life changed dramatically for Vizzari on Jan. 23, 2018, when he suffered a massive stroke that affected his speech and mobility.

And now, the three Vizzari sons — Tony, Mike and Tim — are always there for the dad.

After the initial care and rehabilitation, there was no question about the road ahead for Vizzari. A specialized facility or nursing home was available, but the sons wouldn’t hear of that. Their dad was coming home.

The Vizzari sons, from left: Tim, Michael and Tony, gather around their dad, Vince, who suffered a massive stroke in 2018. The brothers have juggled other obligations, to rally around their dad. (Courtesy of Lonna Vizzari)

To make that work, they have done anything needed to assist, lightening the load on Vizzari’s wife, Lonna, and drawing the family even closer.

Tony (a retired firefighter), Mike (an active fire captain) and Tim (who operates the family’s landscaping business) are juggling their work and family obligations to help care for their dad, 73. Everyone lives close in the Lutz area. They are in constant communication to schedule their time and make sure they can help with chores or simply spend time with their dad.

“They are devoted to their father and always have been,’’ Lonna said. “They do whatever is needed, without complaint, and I derive so much comfort from that.

“It warms my heart. It just brings tears to my eyes, to see that kind of love. Each one does something different with their dad. I always know I can call them and their families also to drop what they are doing if I need them.’’

Vizzari’s left side is much weaker now. If he’s pulled over to the side of the bed, he can sit up. He’s aware of his surroundings and can say some words, including his wife’s name, but has trouble writing.

He needs a wheelchair to get around, and one of the sons takes him outside nearly every day, where he enjoys watching the birdfeeder or maybe one of his grandchildren playing at the lake. While inside, he loves watching western movies or television shows.

In 1996, while working for the fire department, Vizzari suffered a heart attack. For a while, he was reassigned to office duty until he retired on disability. Still, he continued owning a pest control business and taking care of his own mother, 92-year-old Marie, who lived in his home.

The stroke changed everything — and nothing.

“We have always been close to him, and we still are,’’ Tony said. “We’re just doing what we’re supposed to do. Family comes first.’’

“Our dad has always been a jokester, a people person, the kind of guy who helped anyone he could,’’ Tim said. “Things could be a lot worse, but they could also be better. We all want to do whatever we can for him because he deserves that.’’

At the time of the stroke, Tim and his wife were finalizing plans to become foster parents to three children, joining their two biological kids. Life’s complications can appear overwhelming, but it all seems to work.

Vizzari’s positive attitude a major plus
“He’s a great patient,’’ Tony said. “He smiles and laughs every day. He says ‘thank you’ to each of us every day.

“I’d like him to be able to transfer into his wheelchair on his own. Obviously, any extra communication would be a goal. There’s room for improvement, and we will continue to work at it. But, he has the right attitude. He keeps trying, so we keep trying with him.’’

When one of his sons arrives, Vizzari usually smiles and gives a victory hand signal.

“He might not be able to say some words, but you can go by the expression in his eyes,’’ Tim said. “When the grandkids are there, his whole world lights up. He tries to say things, but sometimes it doesn’t come out like he wants.

“It can be a stressful situation, but we all love that we can be there for him and help out. It’s about helping out our mom, too. She’s more of a trooper than anyone. She doesn’t give up, no matter how difficult it might seem.’’

In the last few months, Vizzari’s wife has utilized some caregiver help, usually in the mornings. But, nothing replaces the presence of Vizzari’s sons.

“What they have done for their father, what they have done for me, is something that should be honored,’’ she said. “They are devoted to us. They have their own families and responsibilities, but they make time.

“We are blessed to have a close family. We always had dinners and big get-togethers. We have always supported each other. This is just another example, an extreme example. Vince has improved in a lot of ways, and I think what the boys have done is a big reason for that.’’

By Joey Johnston

Published July 15, 2020