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Health

Health 01-29-14

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NAMI family-to-family

The Pasco County Chapter of National Alliance on Mental Illness is offering a free educational course for family, caregivers and friends of individuals living with mental illness from Jan. 30 to April 17.

The course will be from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., at the NAMI Pasco office, 6480 Land O’ Lakes Blvd. Registration is required.

For information, call (813) 918-3205.

 

Bereavement group

Gulfside Regional Hospice is offering a Newly Bereaved Group at Our Lady of the Rosary Church, 2348 Collier Parkway in Land O’ Lakes, on Tuesdays at 1 p.m., led by a trained grief counselor. The support group is free for anyone who has experienced the grief of losing a loved one.

For information, call Kelly Cavagnetto at (813) 780-1235.

 

Walking trail ribbon cutting

Florida Hospital Zephyrhills, 7050 Gall Blvd., will host a walking trail ribbon cutting Jan. 30 beginning at noon. The trail has been repaved and now has distance markers.

Refreshments and a light lunch will be served.

A new walking club is scheduled to start Feb. 5 from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m.

For information, call (813) 788-0411.

 

Diabetes self-management

The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, will host a diabetes self-management workshop on Mondays at 9 a.m., from Feb. 3 through March 10.

This is a 2.5-hour class. Topics include healthy eating, appropriate exercise, use of medication, and techniques to deal with symptoms and emotional problems.

Seating is limited. Registration is required.

For information, call (727) 834-5630.

 

Alzheimer’s support

Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point’s Alzheimer’s monthly support group will meet on Feb. 4 from 10 a.m. to noon at 14000 Fivay Road in Hudson.

The meeting is open to caregivers and those who want to discuss and exchange ideas for those involved in the care of Alzheimer’s patients.

For information, call Laura Arnold at (727) 863-0176.

 

Heart healthy nutrition

The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, is offering an educational class called “Heart Healthy Nutrition: Eating for a Healthy Lifestyle” on Feb. 6 at 10 a.m.

Participants will learn dietary balance, controlling sodium intake, the importance of dietary fiber, good and bad fats, and calorie balance.

Seating is limited. Reservations are required.

For information, call (727) 834-5630.

 

Lung cancer screenings approved

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force has approved guidelines recommending an annual low-dose CT scan for older smokers. This applies to people between the ages of 55 and 79 who have at least a 30 pack-year history of smoking, or equivalent to one pack per day for 30 years, or two packs per day for 15 years.

For those who don’t meet the criteria but want to be screened, a prescription is required.

Moffitt Cancer Center, 12902 Magnolia Drive in Tampa, is offering low-dose CT lung cancer screenings for $150, self-pay.

To schedule an appointment, call (813) 745-3980. For information, visit Moffitt.org/lungscreening.

 

Obstetrics tour

The obstetrics program at Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, is offering a tour through the obstetrics unit on Feb. 5 at 5 p.m.

Guests will visit the mother-baby birthing suites, and observe the Infant Safety and Security Program.

Spaces are limited. Reservations are required.

For information, call (727) 834-5630.

 

CoDA group

The Co-Dependence Anonymous group at the Medical Center of Trinity meet every Thursday from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m., at the Center’s West Pasco Campus, 5637 Marine Parkway in New Port Richey.

Upcoming meetings are Feb. 6, Feb. 13, Feb. 20 and Feb. 27.

For information, call (727) 816-8678, or (727) 858-3013.

 

Trinity lab receives accreditation

The Accreditation Committee of the College of American Pathologists has awarded accreditation to the Laboratory at Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54.

During the accreditation process, inspectors examine the laboratory’s records and quality control of procedures for the preceding two years.

Also examined are staff qualifications, equipment, facilities, safety program and record, and overall management of the laboratory.

Health 01-22-14

By

Lung cancer screenings approved
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force has approved guidelines recommending an annual low-dose CT scan for older smokers. This applies to people between the ages of 55 and 79 who have at least a 30 pack-year history of smoking, or equivalent to one pack per day for 30 years, or two packs per day for 15 years.
For those who don’t meet the criteria but want to be screened, a prescription is required.
Moffitt Cancer Center, 12902 Magnolia Drive in Tampa, is offering low-dose CT lung cancer screenings for $150, self-pay.
To schedule an appointment, call (813) 745-3980. For information, visit Moffitt.org/lungscreening.

 

Communication deficits
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, will host bi-weekly Chatterboxes support group meetings to assist individuals suffering from communication deficits as a result of a cerebral vascular accident or other neurological disorder.
The next meeting is Jan. 23 from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Caregivers and spouses are encouraged to attend.
For information, call (727) 834-4445.

 

‘Teen Talk for Boys’
St. Joseph’s Women’s Hospital, 3030 W. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., in Tampa, is offering “Teen Talk for Boys” Jan. 24 from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
This is a two-part class for boys ages 10 to 14. Topics include the physical and emotional changes of puberty, and a discussion about conception, sexuality, and the importance of abstinence.
Parents must attend the class with their child.
Cost is $30. To register, call (855) 269-4777.

 

Enrollment & Wellness Fest
Premier Health Centers will host its Enrollment & Wellness Fest on Jan. 25 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the New Port Richey Family Health Center, 2114 Seven Springs Blvd., Suite 300, in Trinity.
Participants can learn the facts about the health care law and the options available. The fair includes free health education and wellness resources, as well as snacks and giveaways.
For information, call (727) 645-4185, ext. 5015.

 

Breastfeeding class
Morton Plant Mease Outpatient Center, 2102 Trinity Oaks Blvd., in Trinity, will host a breastfeeding class on Jan. 25 at 9 a.m. Cost is $15.
For information, call (727) 953-6877, or visit BayCareEvents.org.

 

Infant CPR
The obstetrics program at Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, will offer a pediatric/infant CPR course on Jan. 25 at 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Participants will learn the skills of the American Heart Association course “CPR for Family and Friends.” Cost is $15 per person, or $25 for two.
For reservations, call (727) 834-5630.

 

Sibling class
St. Joseph’s Women’s Hospital, 3030 W. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., in Tampa, will host two sibling classes for children on Jan. 26. The class for ages 6 to 10 is from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., and the class for ages 3 to 5 is from 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Age appropriate information and activities will help prepare children for their new role. An adult must attend the class with the child. Cost is $10.
For information or to register, call (855) 269-4777.

 

Memory loss seminar
The Health & Wellness Center at Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel, 2700 Healing Way, will present the seminar “Memory Loss: When to Seek Help” Jan. 28 from noon to 1 p.m.
Dr. Vanessa Veve will discuss the symptoms and treatment options for dementia, memory loss, Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders. A free lunch will be provided.
Space is limited and reservations are required.
For information, call (813) 929-5432.

 

ABCs of Diabetes
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, will host the seminar “The A, B, Cs of Diabetes” on Jan. 29 at noon.
Dr. Mark Gottlieb will discuss the rise in Type 2 diabetes, and new medications for obesity. A question and answer session will follow.
Admission is free. A complimentary light lunch will be served.
Seating is limited and reservations are required.
For information or to RSVP, call (727) 834-5630.

 

Walking trail ribbon cutting
Florida Hospital Zephyrhills, 7050 Gall Blvd., will host a walking trail ribbon cutting on Jan. 30 from noon to 1 p.m. The trail has been repaved and now has distance markers.
Refreshments and a light lunch will be served.
A new walking club is scheduled to start on Feb. 5 from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m.
For information, call (813) 788-0411.

 

Volunteer at Pasco Regional
Pasco Regional Medical Center, 13100 Fort King Road in Dade City, is looking for energetic men and women to join its volunteer team, including junior volunteers between the ages of 14 and 18.
Opportunities are available in both clinical and nonclinical areas of the hospital.
To learn more about the program, call Amy Fort at (352) 521-1195.

 

Hospice grief support
HPH Hospice is offering a free eight-week Grief’s Journey support group for adults who have experienced the recent death of a loved one.
The group will meet from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Wednesdays, from Feb. 5 through March 26 at the HPH Resource Center, 37441 Clinton Ave., in Dade City.
Registration is required. For information, call (800) 486-8784.

 

CARES programs
CARES Enrichment Center, 13906 Fifth St., in Dade City, offers these activities:
• Adult Day Care: Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Participants receive breakfast, lunch and a snack, along with organized activities. The program provides social and health services to adults who need supervision in a safe place outside the home. Reservations are required, and veterans are accepted. For costs and available funding, call (352) 519-9300.
• Senior Moments Early Memory Loss Program: Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For reservations or information, call (727) 862-9291, ext. 2002.

 

Hospital needs volunteers
Florida Hospital Zephyrhills is looking for volunteers to help with a variety of tasks including transporting patients to and from tests, driving the shuttle, distributing mail, cafeteria, clerical/administrative, and more. Volunteers must be at least 14 years old.
There is a minimum requirement of four volunteer hours per week.
Volunteers receive a complimentary meal in the café on the days they work, and recognition at the annual volunteer banquet. Orientation sessions are twice a month.
If interested, applications are available online at FloridaHospital.com/Zephyrhills, or by calling (813) 779-6256.

 

Support for stroke patients
Florida Hospital Zephyrhills has a stroke support group that meets the third Thursday of every month from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. The group offers support to stroke patients and their caregivers.
The meetings are in the hospital’s wellness conference room at the hospital, 7050 U.S. 301, in Zephyrhills.
For information, visit www.FHZeph.org.

 

Pasco Regional Medical Center events
Pasco Regional Medical Center, 13100 Fort King Road in Dade City, now offers the following:
• Free Senior Extra Breakfast and Walking Club: Every Monday from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m., in Medical Plaza I, Suite 108, for an invigorating walk and breakfast. For information, call (352) 518-1087.
• “Living With Diabetes,” a four-week education program: Limited to six participants per session. For information, call (352) 521-1100, ext. 1423.

 

Senior wellness at The Commons
The following wellness services are offered at The Commons, 38130 Pretty Pond Road in Zephyrhills:
• Ask a Community Care Coordinator: Every Tuesday from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. Learn about various senior services offered by Community Aging and Retirement Services. No appointment necessary.
• Free amplified telephones: Third Wednesday of every month from 10 a.m. to noon. Deaf & Hard of Hearing Services of Florida offers amplified and text telephones and ring signaling devices to Florida residents. For an appointment, call (727) 853-1010.

 

Gulfside hospice programs
Gulfside Regional Hospice hosts a variety of bereavement groups throughout Pasco County. The following support groups are offered:
• Children Grief and Anticipatory Group, 5760 Dean Dairy Road in Zephyrhills, every Tuesday, 5 p.m. Call (727) 452-1592.
• Parents Support Group, 5760 Dean Dairy Road in Zephyrhills, every Tuesday, 5 p.m. Call (727) 992-8034.
• Newly Bereaved Group, 37826 Sky Ridge Circle on Dade City, every Wednesday, 2 p.m. Call (727) 992-8034.
• West Winds Support Group, 37411 Eiland Blvd., in Zephyrhills, every Wednesday, 3:30 p.m., by appointment only.
• Youth Support Group, St. Rita’s Catholic Church, 14440 14th St., in Dade City, every Wednesday, 5:30 p.m. Call (813) 780-1235.
• Latino Parent Support Group, St. Rita’s Catholic Church, 14440 14th St., in Dade City, every Wednesday, 5:30 p.m. Call (727) 992-8034.
• Children Support, 37826 Sky Ridge Circle in Dade City, every Thursday, 5 p.m. Call (727) 992-8034.
• Alumni 2011 Social Group, 37826 Sky Ridge Circle in Dade City, every Friday, 1 p.m. Lunch is served. Call Joan Kolb at (813) 715-4163.
A Grief and Loss Puppet Show with presentations is also available to schools and organizations, and can be scheduled by calling Ashley Monteath at (727) 844-3946.

 

Great place to eat, hidden in plain sight

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If you are ready for a delicious quick bite to eat with a unique flavor, this is the place to go.

The gyro platter with sautéed veggies is one of the popular healthy dishes at Gyro Zone in Lutz.
The gyro platter with sautéed veggies is one of the popular healthy dishes at Gyro Zone in Lutz.

I found a little Middle Eastern-flair Lebanese café that is actually next to a gas station right on U.S. 41 in Lutz called the Gyro Zone.

Trust me, don’t judge a book by its cover. Even though it’s next to a gas station, you will be very impressed with the quality of food the owner delivers, and the great service he provides.

I have to admit, I have not eaten Middle Eastern food before, but this food is delicious, wholesome and tastes very fresh. And I liked that it’s something totally different than we are used to with traditional American food.

The owner, Abe Srour — who was born in Lebanon — says that “seeing people happy and coming back is what I do this for.” He added that 95 percent of his customers are American, and “I feel they are looking for something different. We have brought a new cuisine to this community, and people have been very receptive. Everyone that has come in has returned many times.”

One of the things I love about family restaurants, instead of the big corporate ones, is you really get that family feel from the owners. Abe is such a nice guy, and you can tell he really enjoys serving his customers. Honestly, even though the food is great, it’s worth a trip, even just to meet this guy!

One of the items they specialize in is gyros, which is lamb. If you have never had this before, I encourage you to try it. It’s very healthy. I also tried the homemade hummus, and that was a delicious snack to start with.

Abe recommended I try the chicken shawarma, even though I had no idea what it was. But I was willing to check it out, and wow, was I surprised.

“Shawarma” is a Turkish word that means “turning,” so basically the meat is turning on a spindle while it’s being cooked. It is a vertical rotisserie, and you can choose chicken, beef or gyro.

To reduce the carbs, I modified the platter that came with the sautéed veggies and rice, and I left off the rice. I believe in eating a higher-fat diet and controlling your blood sugar levels by monitoring your carbs. This helps you lose weight easily, age slower, have ultimate health, and get rid of cravings.

The flavors that Abe used are delicious and so unique, I had to control myself not to eat too much (love those to-go boxes). Traditionally, a gyro comes with a wrap, but one thing I like here is they offer it with or without that, and you can just enjoy the meat and veggies. It is just as enjoyable without the excess carbs.

Another thing I like is the oil they use — a very thick olive oil from Lebanon, which is much better for you than using vegetable oils that many restaurants use. Consuming vegetable oils in excess are linked to inflammation in the body, so you want to reduce those in your food choices.

The Gyro Zone is located at 18215 U.S. 41 in Lutz. Its hours are Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sunday from noon to 7 p.m.

I encourage you to check it out, and experience Abe’s skill for cooking great food, and his passion for hospitality.

By Samantha Taylor, Pure Health Studios

Dealing with grief and stress at the holidays

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Heirloom ornaments, twinkling lights and festive wrapping paper can help set the scene for a magical holiday season. But the idealized notions that people carry around in their heads about the holidays rarely happen.

Indeed, no one really experiences the perfect holidays, and the season can be painful or difficult for those grieving the loss of a loved one or experiencing some kind of stress.

Grace Terry
Grace Terry

“I think a lot of people think, ‘Everybody, but our family, is having the Waltons’ Christmas, or the Norman Rockwell Christmas, or the Currier and Ives Christmas,” said Grace Terry, founder of Grief Resolution Resources of Tampa. “Here’s the truth: Nobody has the Waltons’ Christmas, except the Waltons.”

The holidays can be challenging for everyone, Terry said. At best, they may have peaceful and joyful moments, or perhaps, even hours.

“Rarely is there a joyful, peaceful full day, I’m afraid,” she said. “Everybody has some stress. Everybody has some memories of past holidays – again, hopefully everybody has some positive memories, but you know, everybody also has some bittersweet memories, and some memories that are not so happy and joyful.”

Any time there is a death of a loved one, whether it is a family member or dear friend, the first year after the death can be very challenging, Terry said. As the holidays approach, if the family plans to celebrate together, it’s good to have the conversation in advance of the family gathering. That way, “people aren’t taken by surprise and wondering, ‘Oh, what should I do?’

“People will be less awkward or nervous, if we can mention ahead of time, ‘I may want to talk about missing mom,’ or ‘I may want to talk about mom’s famous Christmas cookies, or dad’s snoring when he falls asleep’” after the holiday meal, she said.

Talking it out ahead of time can help reduce feelings of embarrassment or shame about how to handle the absence of the loved one at the holidays, Terry said. She encourages people to have the conversation, and that it’s OK to mention the person’s name who died, it’s OK if a few tears are shed, and everyone remembers a loved one who is not with them this year.

“Nobody has to be embarrassed or ashamed if we tell our favorite story of the deceased loved one, or we mention ‘We surely do miss him,’” Terry said. “If somebody becomes tearful, that’s one way of honoring the deceased.”

By talking in advance of holiday gatherings, family members may find out that they want to take a different approach this year, Terry said.

“A lot of people make assumptions about what everybody else wants without even asking,” she said. “The majority of the people in (the) family might be really wishing that we could really downsize it this year, but everybody’s thinking we’ve got to do what we’ve always done.”

The grief counselor also encourages people to honor their own feelings about how they want to celebrate — or not celebrate — the holidays. Sometimes people think they have to continue the traditions they’ve always had, even if they’re not up to it, Terry said.

It’s also important for people to remember that they are not obliged to do something they don’t want to do, just to live up to others’ expectations.

“They can take the year off, or they can scale back and streamline to a bare minimum,” she said. “The world will keep right on turning. If it just feels like a huge burden and a chore, don’t do it. Even if you’ve done it the same way all of your life, it’s OK to do it differently this year if you want to do it differently.”

Traditions are wonderful, Terry said, but “sometimes they just need to grow and evolve, and deal with present reality.”

It’s also important to remember that what works for one person may not work for another.

“People do grieve differently,” Terry said.

Friends of the bereaved might also be at a loss as to how to help. Terry says to tell them they know that for a lot of people, the first holiday season after the death of a loved one can be painful and difficult.

“How are you feeling about the winter holidays that are coming up?” Terry suggests. “What do you think would be best for you, and how can I support that?

“Then, shut up and listen.”

For those who are struggling with grief, Terry advises that they reach out for support, and never feel embarrassed by it.

“Everybody needs support all of the time,” she said. “When we’re grieving, we need extra.”

Terry organizes sessions called Grief Café where people who are struggling with grief can share in an informal setting. When people don’t work through their grief, it can manifest itself in substance abuse, broken relationships and spiritual despair, Terry said.

She also had another bit of advice for those who want to help the bereaved during the holidays: “Practice kindness and tolerance in the spirit of the season.”

Grief Cafe
Grief Café is a relaxed small group conversation about loss and grief facilitated by a professional that meets the third Thursday of the month from 2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m., in the board room of at Cooper Financial Services, 5420 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes.
Upcoming sessions are set for Dec. 19 and Jan. 16.
The groups generally are kept to 10 people or fewer. There is no charge, but donations are accepted. If you’d like to attend, please reserve a spot by 5 p.m., the day before the session, by calling (727) 487-3207.

Misconceptions about Grief
These statements are false, but generally believed to be true:
• The best way to manage grief is to stay busy.
• Tears are a sign of weakness and loss of control.
• Expressing grief shows a lack of faith.
• Time heals all wounds.
• The goal of bereavement care is to help people get over grief as quickly as possible.
• No one can really help a grieving person resolve his or her grief.
• Only people with advanced specialized formal professional education and a professional license can help someone with his or her grief.
• If we see someone who has recently experienced a traumatic loss, it is best not to mention the loss because we might upset them.
• Children do not grieve because they don’t understand what’s happening.
– Source: Grace Terry of Grief Resolution Resources of Tampa

Chance billboard introduces fitness studio to new home

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The ink was barely dry on the sales agreement, and Samantha Taylor was already moving into her new Pure Health and Fitness Studios location on Knight Road in Land O’ Lakes.

That’s because the longtime local trainer doesn’t like to waste time, whether it’s helping to get a body in shape, or to provide a new 3,700-square-foot facility for her clients. Yet, Taylor hasn’t always enjoyed that level of discipline.

Customers to Pure Health and Fitness Studios will now be welcomed by a grand staircase when they walk into Samantha Taylor’s 3,700-square-foot facility on Knight Road in Land O’ Lakes. (Photo by Michael Hinman)
Customers to Pure Health and Fitness Studios will now be welcomed by a grand staircase when they walk into Samantha Taylor’s 3,700-square-foot facility on Knight Road in Land O’ Lakes. (Photo by Michael Hinman)

“I used to be a major binger,” Taylor said. “I would binge on thousands of calories at a time, and that progressed for quite a few years, all in the middle of my professional training career.”

At the time, Taylor was a physical trainer at Lifestyle Family Fitness Center. And while she was one of the top trainers in the company, Taylor had a nickname she didn’t really much care for: “the chunky trainer.”

“I had gained about 20 pounds,” she said. “I know that doesn’t sound like a lot, but for a personal trainer, that is like gaining 50 or 60.”

But that all changed a decade ago when she discovered the Bible.

“I really started to get the revelation that the Bible talks about that your body is a temple of God,” Taylor said. “For me, it was life-changing. It was just like a light switch went on inside my head, and I suddenly understood that my body was a gift, and I really didn’t have the right to abuse it.”

It was also that same time Taylor decided to strike out on her own, starting Pure Health, and working with women to build their bodily temples as well.

Taylor admits that because it helped her, spirituality is a part of her program. But it doesn’t mean she attracts only Christian clients.

“We don’t force it on people, but those who want it, it’s in there,” she said. “That is a reason why people seek me out. They want to work with someone who works with not just the body, but they like the mind, spirit and the body all together.”

Since starting Pure Health, Taylor has hosted clients in a few smaller locations she rented out. And she was happy doing that, until one day last summer she saw a billboard while on her way to Busch Gardens.

“Something in me knew I had to turn around and get that phone number,” Taylor said. “And when I finally saw the building, it was everything I had dreamed about. We now have rooms for seminars, and eventually even a cooking class. We are lakeside on an acre of land. I get teared up every time I think about it.”

The two-story building is off State Road 54, not far from its intersection with Land O’ Lakes Boulevard, but a bit hidden behind trees and a small lake. Taylor said she is turning it into a place where women can come and get fit without feeling intimidated by the bigger box gyms.

Construction is already underway inside the building, which Taylor expects to have done by the end of the year. And right now, only her six trainers even know about the new location. They got their first look just last week, welcomed by hundreds of rose petals sprinkled up the main walkway.

The boot camp portion of her program will open at the new location by Thanksgiving, set up in what is an air-conditioned former garage. The big doors opening up to it are still there, which Taylor says can be opened in cooler weather to let in some fresh air.

Taylor’s program is straightforward: “If you don’t eat certain foods, you will not have cravings.”

“I think that is the trap that so many people find themselves in,” she said. “They’re trapped in cravings and impulses and desires that seem to overtake them. And they don’t know how to rein it in.”

The new location for Pure Health opens Jan. 1 at 2206 Knight Road in Land O’ Lakes. In the meantime, to reach Taylor, call (813) 909-4939, or visit her website at PureHealthStudios.com.

Top tennis player Isner headlines Avila fundraiser

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At one time, he led a restaurant company with more than 96,000 employees and nearly 1,500 locations. But when he wasn’t working to grow Outback Steakhouse and other restaurants that were part of Bloomin’ Brands Inc., Paul Avery’s focus was on his family.

In particular, his daughters, who both suffer from a rare nerve degenerative disease called Friedreich’s ataxia.

John Isner, currently the top-ranked male tennis player in the United States, takes a break on the Avila Golf & Country Club tennis courts while getting ready for the Ace for a Cure tennis fundraiser on Nov. 24 that will benefit Friedreich’s Ataxia Research Alliance. (Photo by Michael Hinman)
John Isner, currently the top-ranked male tennis player in the United States, takes a break on the Avila Golf & Country Club tennis courts while getting ready for the Ace for a Cure tennis fundraiser on Nov. 24 that will benefit Friedreich’s Ataxia Research Alliance. (Photo by Michael Hinman)

“Before we knew what they had, I never heard of Friedreich’s ataxia,” Avery said. “I didn’t even know how to pronounce it. Like many people in life, you hear of these types of diseases and challenges, and it happens to somebody else. It hit home for us with both of our kids.”

Avery, who is now president and chief executive of the World of Beer chain, is sharing the story of his daughters ahead of this weekend’s Ace for a Cure tennis fundraiser hosted by Avila Golf & Country Club. It will feature Avila resident John Isner, the top-ranked male tennis player in the United States, and No. 14 in the world.

Isner, who grew up in North Carolina, has been friends with Avery and his family since he first started to attend fundraisers benefiting Friedreich’s Ataxia Research Alliance in Tampa. And he has seen firsthand what the condition can do.

“The Averys are the absolutely nicest people, and they’ve worked really hard to conquer this disease,” Isner said. “Before I met them, I didn’t even know about Friedreich’s ataxia at all. But I’ve really gotten to know the ins and outs, and Paul and (wife) Suzanne are right on top of it.”

Only 6,000 people in America have been diagnosed with the condition, but 1 in 100 people are carriers of the gene that can cause it, Avery said. The disease itself typically attacks the spinal cord, especially those nerves that direct muscle movement in the arms and legs.

It can lead to muscle weakness, vision and hearing impairment, spine curvature, diabetes and heart problems.

While pharmaceutical companies and research centers have been working on treatments and a cure for Friedreich’s ataxia because of how it relates to other diseases like Huntington’s and Parkinson’s diseases, there is still a long way to go.

“Today, we have several drugs that are in advanced clinical trials,” Avery said. “They are showing to be very promising, so we’re excited about that. And the awareness of the condition continues to grow.”

While the tennis event itself is on Sunday, the entire weekend actually kicks off Nov. 21 with a meet and greet and autograph session with Isner. Saturday, beginning at 8 a.m., Avila tennis director Roger Cypriano and his team will conduct a tennis Teach-A-Thon with half-hour lessons available for $25.

The Spin-A-Thon begins at 9 a.m. with one-hour spin classes starting at $50, and additional hours at $25. The Mind Body-A-Thon begins at 11 a.m. with Pilates and yoga.

Tennis round robin takes place from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m., for sponsors who spend $1,000 or more.

Sunday is the tennis exhibition match featuring Isner, where gates open at 11:30 a.m. at Avila. Tickets to that match, which includes lunch, are $80 each.

“I’ve always had a good time playing, and it’s convenient for me, because it’s all right here in the neighborhood,” Isner said. “And it’s for a great cause, and I’m glad that I can really help out.”

Avery’s daughters are looking forward to some of the treatments for Friedreich’s ataxia making their way through clinical trials. In the meantime, however, they’re living normal lives. One is in college, and the other is finishing her senior year of high school.

“They’re super kids in their attitudes and expectations, and they have a great outlook,” Avery said. “They’re not defined by the disease, and just want to get ahead in life like everyone else.”

To purchase tickets or sponsorships, visit tinyurl.com/AceCure. For more information on the event, call Roger Cypriano at (813) 968-6792, or email him at .

If you go
WHAT: Ace for a Cure tennis fundraiser featuring John Isner
WHO: Friedreich’s Ataxia Research Alliance
WHEN: Nov. 24, 11:30 a.m.
WHERE: Avila Golf & Country Club, 943 Guisando De Avila, Tampa
COST: $80
INFO: tinyurl.com/AceCure

New charter school aims to help children with autism

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Children with autism often are unable to say what they need or want, said Carrie Walker.

She’s the director of Florida Autism Center of Excellence, a Pasco County charter school that opened this year in Zephyrhills.

“They’re hungry. They’re sleepy. They can’t express when they’re hurting,” Walker said.

Carrie Walker is the director of Florida Autism Center of Excellence, which is located at 39375 Chancey Road. (Photo by B.C. Manion)
Carrie Walker is the director of Florida Autism Center of Excellence, which is located at 39375 Chancey Road. (Photo by B.C. Manion)

That inability to communicate can cause frustrations, which boil over into behavior problems, Walker added. So, it’s essential to help them learn that their voice is a tool to help them get what they need or want.

“You want to focus on the language first,” said Claire Stanford, a board-certified behavior analyst who works with children at the charter school for prekindergarten through fifth-grade students.

Although public awareness about autism has improved, stereotypes about it still exist, both women said.

Some people lump all children with autism into the same group, failing to distinguish their individual differences. Others assume that children with autism must have low IQs because of their inability to verbalize. Others brand children with autism as being bad kids.

“Autism is a spectrum,” Walker said. Each child faces individual challenges.

By helping children develop and use language skills, problems with behavior often are resolved, Stanford said.

The Florida Autism Center of Excellence aims to help students gain academic, social and behavioral skills needed to be independent in later life. The center uses the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis — a research-based strategy that has been proven to be effective for teaching students with autism.

“We break the goals down into small, discrete, observable steps,” Stanford said. Students are given praise and reinforcement for exhibiting those steps.

While many schools use a stoplight system to regulate behavior, the charter school does not. At those schools, all of the kids will start on green, Stanford said.

“There’s nothing they can do but go down,” she said.

The charter school teaches children to substitute unacceptable behaviors with acceptable choices, Stanford said.

“We do not use punishment,” Walker said.

The school uses individual language assessments to pinpoint gaps. Stanford then helps teachers write a teaching plan, and a data sheet is used to monitor how a student is faring. Parents receive monthly progress reports.

The idea is to tailor instruction to meet an individual child’s needs.

The charter school, on Chancey Road, operates out of a number of portable classroom buildings. It has an enrollment of 18, and is continuing to accept new students until it reaches this year’s cap of 38. Once that happens, new students will be admitted through a lottery system.

Next year, the school hopes to add middle school classes. Ultimately, it would like to have 110 students, Walker said.

To be eligible, students must have a diagnosis of autism by a medical doctor or an Individual Education Plan issued by a school that states the student has autism, Walker said.

She encourages families to take quick action if they believe their son or daughter has autism. The sooner a child is diagnosed, the sooner he or she can get help.

“You want to get them enrolled as early as possible,” Walker said. “Early intervention is the key.”

The charter school also wants to give parents support and help. Parents often feel they are being blamed for their child’s behavior, Walker said.

“For some of them, they feel they’re being pointed at, they’re the cause,” she said. “This is a safe environment for them. They don’t feel judged.”

Walker said the work she does is rewarding.

“I like to see the gains,” Walker said, referring to the progress that students make. “I like to give hope to the parents, because there is hope.”

What: Florida Autism Center of Excellence is a Pasco County Schools charter school providing services for children with autism. It serve prekindergarten through fifth grade, and hopes to add middle school classes next year.
Where: 39735 Chancey Road, Zephyrhills
Web: www.FACEProgram.org
Phone: (813) 395-5952

About autism
As a spectrum disorder, children and adults with autism can exhibit any combination of these behaviors in any degree of severity.
Some examples of behaviors a person with autism may display are:
• Communication: Children may have difficulty in verbal and nonverbal communication. There may be a lack of language development. Speech may be limited or disordered, or they may engage in one-sided conversations. They may have challenges with body language, facial expressions, gestures and signs.
• Social Interactions: Children may exhibit highly inappropriate behaviors and may show indifference to others. They may avoid affection, eye contact, and may play by themselves.
•
Imagination: Play may be limited to one or two activities, involving repetitive actions.
• Playing: Children may use toys inappropriately and not for their intended purpose.
• Repetitive Behaviors: Children may develop ritualistic behaviors and obsessions.
Autistic behaviors may include rocking, spinning, flicking hands or fingers in front of their eyes, tapping objects and mouthing objects.
Source: www.FACEProgram.com

Young girls keep smiling … through pain of arthritis

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At first blush, Lindsey and Ashley Valenti look like typical preteenage girls.

They enjoy doing typical preteen things: Going to Disney theme parks, attending birthday parties and playing.

But doing even these simple things is difficult for the Wesley Chapel girls, as they both suffer from juvenile arthritis.

Ashley Valenti, left, and her sister Lindsey have been selected as the child honorees for the Tampa Bay Arthritis Foundation’s Jingle Bell Walk/Run event in December. Both girls have had to curtail many of the activities they enjoy because of the pain they suffer from juvenile arthritis. (Photo by B.C. Manion)
Ashley Valenti, left, and her sister Lindsey have been selected as the child honorees for the Tampa Bay Arthritis Foundation’s Jingle Bell Walk/Run event in December. Both girls have had to curtail many of the activities they enjoy because of the pain they suffer from juvenile arthritis. (Photo by B.C. Manion)

Still, they keep an upbeat attitude, which their mom, Mary Valenti, said is probably one of the reasons they’ve been chosen as the child honorees for Tampa’s Arthritis Foundation Jingle Bell Run/Walk. The event is set for Dec. 21 at the Dale Mabry campus of Hillsborough County Community College. Besides a 5-kilometer and one-mile run, there also will be activities for kids, a silent auction and awards.

Valenti is pleased that her daughters were selected for the honor because she thinks it’s important to spread the word about juvenile arthritis, a condition she believes is often misunderstood. Both girls — who also require a monthly infusion of antibodies because of an immune system condition called specific antibody deficiency — were diagnosed in 2010, but Valenti suspects that they had the condition much longer.

Lindsey, 12, said she began noticing problems with her knees about two years before she was diagnosed with juvenile arthritis. She was taking a dance class and one part of a routine required dancers to spring up from the floor.

“All of the girls were able to get off the floor with ease,” Lindsey said. All except for her. She had to push herself up.

When Valenti reported that Lindsey’s knees were swollen, it was explained away as “growing pains,” she said. Lindsey had back pain, which doctors said could be kidney infection. She had severe fatigue that was chalked up to her immune system condition.

“It took us a very long time to come to this diagnosis,” Valenti said.

But it didn’t take as long to recognize Ashley’s condition, her mom said. When Ashley complained that her foot hurt, they initially thought she had turned her ankle.

When that wasn’t the problem, Valenti wondered if Ashley also might have juvenile arthritis. A rheumatologist confirmed her suspicion.

Many people have never even heard of juvenile arthritis, Valenti said. Often, they trivialize the condition, saying things like their grandmother or grandfather has arthritis.

“They don’t get it. They don’t understand it. This is a life-altering diagnosis,” Valenti said. “They look so normal and healthy, that’s why we have trouble getting across to people how serious this is.”

The arthritis they have is aggressive and lifelong. It affects organs. It affects their heart. It causes blindness.

“These are things we constantly having to get checked,” she said. “We have a team of about seven specialists.”

Lindsey remembers that recently she saw her neighbors playing outside.

“We used to be out there with them, and now we can’t,” she said. “It hurts to run. We’d go and play tag. We live in a lot of pain.”

When Lindsey wakes up in the morning, she has at least an hour of stiffness “with every joint, my neck, my knees, everything.”

The arthritis has prompted Lindsey to be home-schooled, taking classes through Florida Virtual School. But it can be hard, because Lindsey is at an age where having a social life is important. Being out of sight means being out of mind, she said, noting she doesn’t attend many birthday parties because she’s not invited.

“I have a wheelchair that I use off and on during flares, and sometimes I think kids are almost scared of what to say, so I’m avoided,” Lindsey said. “Ashley will go and play with the Barbies and she’ll need help getting up. And, I’ll sit down on the floor, and I’m pulling on the chair to try to get myself up. Even getting up from a chair is sometimes hard.”

Ashley attends Wesley Chapel Elementary School, but is frequently out of school to attend doctor’s appointments and get treatments.

Valenti and her husband Tony try to keep things as normal as possible for her girls. When Ashley’s school had a Halloween parade, for instance, Valenti pushed her daughter around in a wheelchair so Ashley could take part.

“She’s fifth grade, it’s her last one. We’re fighting to make it memorable for her because fifth grade is a big deal,” Valenti said. “I don’t know how much more schooling she’s going to be able to attend. We have some decisions to make for next year. We’re probably going to have to do the virtual school as well. But it’s a tough choice. She’s a very social kid.”

Besides robbing her children of their childhood, the disease has posed challenges for the entire family, Valenti said, especially when it comes to finances. There’s the cost of medical treatment, doctor visits and medication. There’s also the cost of just driving the girls to their medical appointments, which include trips to St. Petersburg and Gainesville.

“We bought a brand new car in May just because we travel so much, and I already have 12,000 miles on it,” Valenti said.

They’ve formed a fundraising team they call the Valient Valentis, and they’ve had some local events to raise money to help battle arthritis. They’re determined to do what they can to help their daughters and others who suffer from juvenile arthritis.

WHAT: Jingle Bell Run/Walk
WHO: Tampa Bay Arthritis Foundation
WHEN: Dec. 21, with registration beginning at 7:30 a.m.
WHERE: Dale Mabry campus of Hillsborough Community College, 4001 W. Tampa Bay Blvd.

Nurse earns national accolades creating new approach to care

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Susan Scherer — one of four finalists for a national nursing honor — wants to help patients understand their medical conditions and to obtain the most appropriate care.

Scherer will find out Friday if she received the 2013 Oncology Nurse Excellence award from the Academy of Oncology Nurse Navigators when they meet in Memphis, Tenn.

Susan Scherer, a nurse who lives in Land O’ Lakes, has created a business called RN Cancer Guides. It pairs an oncology nurse with a patient to help the patient gain a clearer understanding of complex medical issues as well as the complicated medical system. (Photo by B.C. Manion)
Susan Scherer, a nurse who lives in Land O’ Lakes, has created a business called RN Cancer Guides. It pairs an oncology nurse with a patient to help the patient gain a clearer understanding of complex medical issues as well as the complicated medical system. (Photo by B.C. Manion)

Scherer is gratified to be recognized as being among the nation’s leading oncology nurses, but she is even more excited about a business she has launched that will serve patients in a new way: RN Cancer Guides.

It pairs oncology nurses with cancer patients to help the patients gain a better understanding of their medical condition, and to be better equipped to manage their care. It’s a unique approach, Scherer said, noting “it’s never been done.”

The company is in its infancy, but the Land O’ Lakes nurse foresees vast potential for expansion, as there is no shortage of a need for the services her company provides.

In a nutshell, RN Cancer Guides provides a nursing expert to review a patient’s medical records and medications, and to accompany a patient on important doctor visits when patients are at a decision point in their care. They also help patients become aware of resources that may be available to help them reduce medication and medical service charges, or to help cover those costs.

Prior to launching her business this summer, Scherer worked as a nurse at H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute. Before that, she was a nurse in Minnesota where she suffered a stroke. That gave her a greater affinity for working with patients with neurological conditions.

Scherer’s goal is to help patients learn enough to handle their health care issues on their own, but she said most people are not equipped to deal with the complex issues that confront cancer patients. On top of that, patients generally are grappling with emotional and financial pressures, as well as impacts their conditions have on their work and family lives.

She believes oncology nurses are in a unique position to help cancer patients understand their condition, become more aware of their options, and pursue appropriate care.

“Nurses seem to be the point of contact. Patients really open up to nursing,” Scherer said.

She also is a staunch advocate for patient rights.

“People are having to take more responsibility for their own health care,” Scherer said. “I believe people have the right to hear what’s going on, honestly, with them.”

Unfortunately, many people find doctors to be intimidating, she said. “There’s a whole generation of, ‘Well, the doctor said …’”

Finding appropriate care is essential, but that doesn’t always happen. “People will shop for cars more than they will their own physician,” she said.

Scherer’s service helps people gain greater insight about their options and resources that may be available to help them. It also helps patients realize they need to advocate for their health care.

“I give them a voice. I say, ‘You have every right to say what you have to say. You have every right to be heard. This is your life,’” she said.

She believes patients want to be informed about their condition, — even when the news is bad.

“If you arm people with education and you tell them the truth, they can handle it a lot better than if you blindside them,” Scherer said.

She believes her new venture is particularly timely.

“Right now, we have this health care system and nobody knows what’s happening. It’s mass chaos. Looking at how fragmented that things are right now, now is the time to help out,” she said.

RN Cancer Guides serves patients at any stage of their diagnosis, she said.

Costs for the service vary. For newly diagnosed patients with no complications, the service is $750, which includes 10 hours of service and a doctor’s visit.

The cost increases to $1,000 for 15 hours of service and a doctor’s visit, for more complicated cases, and $2,000 for up to 20 hours of service and a doctor’s visit for even more complex cases.

There’s also an hourly consulting service available at $149 an hour. And, there are corporate programs available, too, for businesses that want to provide a cancer assistance program for their employees.

When the patient is facing an important decision, the oncology nurse will accompany them on that doctor visit, Scherer said.

“When I go into physicians’ offices, I have to not be adversarial. I’m supposed to be an extension of everybody, to make sure they’re all talking,” Scherer said.

If she wins the award on Friday, it won’t be Scherer’s first honor. In 2005, she received a Florida Hospital Heroes Award after she and her husband, Nick, traveled to Mississippi twice in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.

The couple hauled a trailer full of food and supplies to dispense to storm victims. She also provided medical assistance, administering tetanus shots and helping in other ways.

Anyone who would like to know more about RN Cancer Guides can call (813) 360-1145, can email , or can visit the company’s website at www.RNCancerGuides.com.

They fly the friendly skies to help those in need

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By Sherri Lonon

Two local residents were nominated for pilot of the year honors for their dedication to the nonprofit that flies missions of mercy throughout the Southeast.

John Hanselman and David Trilling are on a mission to give back to others in need.

John Hanselman
John Hanselman

As pilots for Angel Flight Southeast, Trilling of Lutz and Hanselman of Odessa, give their time and donate their personal aircraft and fuel to take patients in need of medical care to appointments. Whether it’s transporting a child to another state for cancer treatments or flying a transplant organ from a donor hospital to a patient in need, Hanselman and Trilling stand ready to answer calls for help when they arise.

For their efforts, Angel Flight Southeast has nominated both Hanselman and Trilling for its pilot of the year award. The award is the highest honor Angel Flight bestows on its volunteer pilots.

Angel Flight Southeast is a nonprofit humanitarian organization that serves Florida. Through a network of about 650 volunteer pilots, the agency helps those who are unable to take commercial flights — whether for financial or medical reasons — get to their appointments within the state, or in other states. It’s part of the Air Charity Network, which logs more than 22,000 missions annually, according to Angel Flight’s website.

Trilling won pilot of the year during a ceremony Sunday night, while Hanselman received the “Above & Beyond” award, given to pilots who not only volunteer their time, planes and fuel for Angel Flight missions, but also work to raise awareness for the charity, and will often help with fundraising.

Hanselman and Trilling both say they are honored by the nominations and wins, but admit they don’t take to the skies in hopes of earning awards.

“Most pilots just absolutely love to fly, and they love to fly with purpose,” said Hanselman, who has been flying for Angel Flight for about a year.

Hanselman first learned about the organization in the 1980s while he was working on his pilot’s license. He promised himself if he was ever in a position to take part, he would.

When Hanselman retired and sold his stake in a business, he bought a Cessna 206h and kept that promise to himself. His first flight for the nonprofit was a year ago.

For Hanselman, being a part of such a “noble enterprise” is reward enough.

“I enjoy flying, and at the same time, it’s giving back,” he said.

Trilling’s motivations are similar.

David Trilling
David Trilling

“After five years of flying, earning ratings and certificates, I wanted to use the acquired flying skills to do interesting flying as well as give back to the community,” he said.

Trilling learned how to fly after working 35 years in the food research and development arena.

“After retiring, I consulted and learned how to fly, always having been interested in planes and the magic of flight,” he said.

Now a flight instructor and volunteer with Angel Flight, Trilling uses his personal plane, a Mooney, to conduct missions of mercy.

As for the nomination, Trilling is honored, but says that “all of the pilots who contribute their time and planes for this purpose are pilots of the year.”

For more information about Angel Flight, visit the nonprofit online at www.AngelFlightSE.org.