Special to The Laker/Lutz News

By Deborah Bostock-Kelley

Special to The Laker/Lutz News
In 2019, an estimated 268,000 new cases of invasive breast cancerwill be diagnosed in women living in the U.S. To reduce this sobering statistic, AdventHealth Wesley Chapel is using innovative diagnosis and advanced treatment options with state-of-the-art technology.

All patients at the hospital receive noninvasive, 3D mammography that helps the radiologist see issues that were hidden in its predecessor, 2D mammography.

“Three-dimensional mammography allows for better visualization of the breast tissue, and is becoming the new standard of care,” said Dr. Jahnavi Pastore, director of breast imaging at AdventHealth Wesley Chapel. “It is our standard practice to perform mammograms as a three-dimensional study because it offers a more precise evaluation of the breast tissue, and is particularly helpful in imaging dense breasts.”

Dense breasts are more challenging for the radiologist to read in a mammogram, because dense tissue appears white in a black-and-white mammogram, as do tumors.

For patients with dense breasts, Dr. Pastore recommends a 3D mammogram, even if a patient has had a recent 2D mammogram. A 3D mammogram allows the radiologist to review the study, and if any concern arises, allows the patient to quickly do a follow-up mammogram with contrast, or an ultrasound.

Contrast-enhanced mammography uses an injection into the vein to increase the ability to see any abnormal breast tissue in the 3D mammogram. Using contrast makes any areas of concern light up in the mammogram, and helps the radiologist diagnose potential concerns.

“The contrast is injected a couple of minutes before having a mammogram. If a tumor is sitting in the breast, it will take up the contrast and jump out on the mammogram against normal background breast tissue,” says Dr. Pastore.

“This is not a routine study, but if we see something on the 3D mammogram for someone with dense breasts, a contrast mammogram may be recommended after a breast ultrasound. In addition, it can serve as an alternative for a breast MRI for patients with pacemakers or severe claustrophobia, who are unable to have a breast MRI,” she said.

A third advancement at AdventHealth Wesley Chapel is elastography — a tool used as part of breast ultrasound imaging to measure the stiffness of a breast lesion.

“If something is particularly stiff compared to the surrounding tissue, it is of greater suspicion and could warrant a biopsy,” says Dr. Pastore. “Sometimes, cysts can be complicated in their appearance, and elastography can be a helpful diagnosis tool, plus it is noninvasive with zero radiation.”

If a tumor is considered high-risk, or is determined to be cancerous and tissue removal is required, the hospital features new SCOUT technology. This technology places an infrared radar reflector the size of a grain of rice into the tumor before the surgery. The reflector emits a radar signal, which allows the surgeon to precisely locate and remove cancerous tissue during a lumpectomy or surgical biopsy using a probe hand piece.

Dr. Pastore relays the story of a young woman who had a family history of breast cancer. She started traditional mammogram screening in her early 30s, and then tried 3D imaging with Dr. Pastore, which led to the discovery of a distortion in the breast.

“There wasn’t an ugly mass. It was relatively small and subtle. We quickly got her in for a diagnostic mammogram, and with compression, the area stood out even more,” she explains. I did an ultrasound of that area and sitting in that tissue, exactly where it was on the mammogram, I saw a mass that was not visible on the 2D mammogram. I got her in the day after and did a breast biopsy, and it was positive for cancer.

“She had a breast MRI to ensure there weren’t any other areas of cancer, and then went on to a breast surgeon who did a lumpectomy and removed that area. The 3D imaging allowed a young cancer patient to have a relatively simple course of treatment. If this had not been detected with 3D mammography, eventually it would have turned into a true mass, and could have required a more extensive and prolonged treatment.”

Dr. Pastore says, “I am grateful to have the technology to do my job to the best of my ability. Radiologists know what to look for, but we are only as good as the tools that we have. To have this type of technology at my fingertips is fantastic.”

For more information: AHWesleyChapel.com, or Facebook.com/AdventHealthWesleyChapel

Published 10/30/19

By Deborah Bostock-Kelley

Special to The Laker/Lutz News

A full-time realtor for 15 years, including the past five years with Charles Rutenberg Realty, Beth Hibben understands the importance of communication. When someone calls, she picks up the phone seven days a week, and never sends her buyers and sellers to an impersonal, automated message.

“When people call me, I answer the phone, and it usually catches them off-guard,” said Hibben. “I believe lack of communication is where things fall apart, and communication is my biggest strength.”

Hibben carries certification as a member of the National Association of Realtors, and also as a Pricing Strategy Provider.

“The Realtor certification means you have ethical guidelines for your business, and you also have continuing education to keep updated on the changing market,” she explains.

As a Pricing Strategy Provider, Hibben has been taught how to price properties correctly.

“Whether you’re selling or buying a property, I can research and come up with pricing for either,” she says. “I also have a certification in negotiations.”

Specializing in homes in the $250s to $700s price range, Hibben is a one-stop shop for her clients, providing resources for a trusted title agent, home inspector, handyman, stager, and professional photographer.

“It’s funny. I have people who move here, and I help them find a house, then I help them find a car, and I help them get a cellphone. There are all kinds of things that I do, above and beyond,” she said.

To help the homebuyer find his dream home, Hibben does a thorough interview. She identifies the client’s priorities— such as a good school district, gated or non-gated community, HOA versus no HOA. She makes appointments to visit the homes that meet the client’s criteria.

“Sometimes I work with people, and I’m their second real estate agent because the first one didn’t listen,” says Hibben. “We go out, and they say ‘all these homes are exactly what we told you we wanted,’ and I say yes, because I do my homework.”

One of Hibben’s specialties is new construction, where her certification in negotiations comes into play. She negotiates on behalf of the homebuyer, as the builder rep is only representing the builder.

“What I love about being a Realtor is when I’m working with buyers and they find the home that they want, they are happy and excited. And, when I’m working with a seller, I love getting them a good price,” she pauses. “It’s the biggest investment that you’ll make in a lifetime, and I take that responsibility seriously.”

Hibben is proud to give back part of her commission to those whom she considers ‘hometown heroes” – firefighters, police, military and teachers.

Realtor Beth Hibben • (813) 244-3706 •

Charles Rutenberg Realty • Wesley Chapel, FL 33544

Published 10/30/19

By William Jacko

Special to The Laker/Lutz News

With several large RV dealerships in the area, Optimum RV in Zephyrhills has found its niche specializing in used recreational vehicles.

“We sell late-model, quality used products that are close to like-new condition, but priced dramatically less than what a new RV would cost,” said Zachary Crandell, general manager.  “All the big stores on I-4 are 85 percent new and 15 percent used. We’re the exact opposite — 85 percent used and 15 percent new.”

You will likely meet Crandall when you visit Optimum RV, because Crandall enjoys talking with customers — something that’s unusual for a general manager.

“When you go to one of the bigger stores, the customer is never going to see the general manager,” Crandell said.  “I talk to almost every single customer, and sit down with them and do a deal.  You can’t do that anywhere else.”

Another benefit to buying from Optimum RV is that customers sees the same friendly faces every time they visit.

“It’s nice when you come here, because you’re always going to see the same people,” said Crandell.  “At bigger stores, you will likely talk to a different person every time, whether it’s in sales or service.”

Optimum RV sells travel trailers, motor homes, fifth wheels, and towable trailers.  It sells more fifth wheels than any other types of RVs because east Pasco County is saturated with trailer parks and snowbirds, who want to pull their RV behind their vehicle. Small travel trailers are also in demand, and are especially popular with families with children who like to camp out and hunt.

Optimum RV takes care of its customers after the sale with a full-time service department that works on most makes and models. It also repairs generators, air conditioners and just about anything else found on recreational vehicles.

As a small, family-owned business, Crandell considers small businesses like Optimum RV important to keep market prices low and give people choices.

“Small business keeps the big guys honest,” Crandell said.  “Maybe some customers wouldn’t get a fair shake if it wasn’t for smaller stores like us. We’re only 15 miles from the big stores on I-75, and they often have the same exact make and model as we do, but their prices are $10,000 to $15,000 more.”

Who should consider buying an RV? “If you like being outside, and you don’t mind getting your hands dirty, you will probably enjoy owning an RV,” Crandell said.  “Traveling in an RV is a comfortable way of seeing the country, and there are a ton of nice RV parks everywhere that are clean and affordable.”

www.OptimumRV.com • 813-779-1010 • 813-629-3334

3332 Paul S. Buchman Hwy, Zephyrhills, FL. 33540

Published 10/23/19

Owning a pharmacy has been a very personal and rewarding career for Evelyn Johnson of X-Tra Discount Drugs — one of the oldest independent pharmacies in Zephyrhills currently celebrating its 30^thyear.

“We truly care about our customers, and are proud to have been providing friendly, professional services for so many years,” said Johnson, who is a pharmacist and owner of X-Tra Discount Drugs.

The pharmacy opened in1989, and Johnson’s focus on personal service has never changed.

“My staff and I know our customers by name, and are always available to answer questions or help them find a product they need,” said Johnson.  “For us, quality care means more than just prompt filling of prescriptions — it’s about providing personal care and the attention every customer deserves.”

One of the extra things Johnson does for her patients is setting up pill packs that are organized by day and week.

“People just love them because it is easy for anyone to make a mistake.  Our packs are organized by color, day of the week and time of day, so there is no confusion about what pills to take, and when to take them,” said Johnson.

Johnson stresses that pill packs are not just for people with memory problems.

“Anybody can forget when they are taking multiple medications. It’s a big relief to have your pills organized, so you don’t forget to take them the way your doctor ordered,” she said.

In addition to prescription drugs, X-Tra Discount Drugs also offers a full line of high quality, all natural vitamins and supplements, and a full line of over-the-counter medications.

Aids to daily living, also called durable medical equipment, are one of the store’s most popular lines. Dozens of helpful items are available, including toilet extensions, sitz baths, walkers, canes and crutches. The pharmacy also stocks a large selection of leg and knee braces, wrist supports, support hose and wound care items.

“This equipment that allows people to remain in their homes as they age, and helps while recovering from hospitalization and surgery,” said Johnson.

Customer Ernie Amos has lived in Zephyrhills for nine years, and shops at X-Tra Discount Drugs for medical supplies for his wife, who is paralyzed.

“The staff here is very helpful and provides great service. If they don’t have an item I need, they get it for me,” said Amos.

And when Amos’ order comes in, X-Tra Discount drugs will deliver it to his home.

“When you come to our pharmacy, you’ll be able to count on dependable care from a knowledgeable pharmacist. We take the time to get to know you and your unique health needs, and welcome you to stop by or give us a call today,” said Johnson.

XtraDiscountDrugs.com • 813-788-7885

6953 Gall Blvd. Zephyrhills (corner of Gall Blvd/US 301 & Daughtery Rd.

Published 10/9/19

The stately grandfather clock in the lobby at McDannold Law belonged to Andrew McDannold’s beloved grandparents, who died without leaving the clock to any particular beneficiary, making it difficult for family to decide who would inherit the timepiece

McDannold keeps the clock in his law office because it symbolizes the reasons that motivated him to practice elder law — his love for his grandparents, the inexorable march of time we all face, and the importance of careful estate planning.

When it comes to planning your family’s future, McDannold recommends choosing an attorney who specializes in estate planning.

“If you need estate planning, why would you go to someone who mostly does other things?  Same with probate — I know the process backward and forward, and am better equipped to do a good job,” said McDannold. “I do not forget to include things that might be beneficial later on, or language that avoids or addresses potential situations in the future.”

McDannold does not charge for his initial consultation, which he often sets up over a cup of coffee. This relaxed atmosphere helps him get to know clients personally, so he can best tailor legal plans specific to each client’s individual needs and situation.

“My grandparents were really formative in my life, soplanning, losing people, dealing with the aftermath, and the whole experience of people passing on and leaving things behind, is something I understand,” said McDonnald. “I want to help folks through that process, and unfortunately, many people don’t know what comes next after someone dies.”

Estate planning is especially important when there are dependent children, or guardianship of incapacitated or developmentally disabled adults.

“One of the most substantial things parents can do is to establish who shall be the guardian of their children after they’re gone,” McDannold said. “If you don’t make that choice in advance, then some judge who doesn’t know you, your kids, or your family, is going to have to make that decision. Do you want a stranger making that choice?”

For family heirlooms, like his grandparents’ clock, McDannold proposes a simple solution.

“In Florida, you can create a separate list of who you want to receive your tangible personal property — things like a clock or a rug or a prized painting,” said McDannold. “This list does not have to be created it in front of an attorney, and it does not need to be notarized or witnessed.  All you need to do is date and sign it, and as long as your will refers to this list, it becomes part of your will. Later on, if change your mind, you can even tear it up and make a new list.”

Before becoming an attorney, McDannold had an accomplished 25-year military career, working as a staff engineer on the B-2 Stealth Bomber program and as a flight-test engineer. He was deployed to Iraq for two years as a military advisor to the Iraqi air staff, and completed his military career in Tampa at CENTCOM, MacDill Air Force Base.

Call (813) 397-6330 to schedule a free consultation • McDannoldLaw.com

Published 10/2/19