Florida Hospital Tampa

Easter season filled with spiritual celebrations

March 23, 2016 By B.C. Manion

As Easter approaches, churches across The Laker/Lutz News coverage area are preparing for a host of spiritual activities.

Some churches will be hosting Good Thursday, Holy Friday and Easter Vigil services, while others will be focusing primarily on Easter Sunday services.

There will be community events, as well, to celebrate the season.

David Huff, pastor at Trinity Church of Wesley Chapel, released the doves at the end of last year’s Easter service. A dove release is again planned for Sunday’s service. (Photos courtesy of Florida Hospital Zephyrhills) — David Huff, pastor at Trinity Church of Wesley Chapel, released the doves at the end of last year’s Easter service. A dove release is again planned for Sunday’s service.
(Photos courtesy of Florida Hospital Zephyrhills)

In Zephyrhills, the Zephyrhills-Wesley Chapel Ministerial Association will be leading the annual Good Friday Walk of the Cross.

Adults and families are invited to the walk, which takes participants on a 1 ½-mile pilgrimage with stops outside seven Zephyrhills churches.

Along the way, individuals take turns carrying the cross to different churches, and at each stop, a scriptural verse and reflection is shared.

The first stop on the walk will be on March 25 at 5:30 p.m., at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, at 5316 11th Street. The walk concludes about 6:45 p.m., at the First United Methodist Church, 38635 Fifth Ave., where there will be a Good Friday service.

“This is such an amazing event, to have people from all different faiths and all different styles and denominations of Christianity, coming together for something in unity,” said Dennis Harmeson, president of the ministerial association. Until he participated in the walk, he said, “I had never seen anything like it,” regarding people’s willingness to lay aside the things they disagree about, in a show of unity about the things they agree on.

On Easter Sunday, Florida Hospital Zephyrhills will partner with the ministerial association to present an annual Easter sunrise service, on March 27, beginning at 7 a.m. It will be on the front lawn of the hospital’s campus at 7050 Gall Blvd.

The service will feature a message from Dennis Harmeson, pastor at Zephyrhills Wesleyan Church, and music by Craig Garrison, a pharmacy regulatory specialist and volunteer spiritual ambassador at Florida Hospital Tampa, who is also a resident of Zephyrhills.

Pastor Nick Deford of First Church of the Nazarene, Zephyrhills, delivered the Easter message in 2015 before a crowd estimated at around 1,500.

An offering will be taken for The Good Samaritan Project of Zephyrhills and for the ministerial association, which both are nonprofit organizations, and the hospital will provide complimentary refreshments.

Because of limited seating, the hospital suggests that those attending bring a lawn chair. The event will be held, rain or shine.

The sunrise service at the hospital is a tradition that began around 1985, said Doug Higgins, chaplain at Florida Hospital Zephyrhills.

“It’s kind of a gift to the community from the hospital, to encourage this important celebration of the year,” he said.

One of the highlights is the release of a dove, a symbol of the Holy Spirit, Higgins said.

“That’s a great symbol of Christ’s resurrection, and new life within us, as well,” he explained.

The service typically draws about 1,500 people, he said.

Harmeson, who will be the main speaker at the sunrise service, said he will be focusing on the resurrection of Christ and “how we react, moving forward with the knowledge Christ died for us.”

Scores of churches of various Christian denominations also are planning special services leading up to Easter and on Easter Sunday, and we have some of those services in our What’s Happening section this week. Many churches also have information about the themes and times for their services posted on their websites.

Published March 23, 2016

Peering into the world of medicine

July 8, 2015 By B.C. Manion

Students who are interested in potential medical careers had a chance to get an up-close look at them during the B.E.S.T. Academy Camp Program at Florida Hospital Zephyrhills.

Greg Mathis, program director for the B.E.S.T. Academy Camp Program at Florida Hospital Zephyrhills, poses with student Emily Daffron, one of 20 students taking part in the academy. (B.C. Manion/Staff Photos) — Greg Mathis, program director for the B.E.S.T. Academy Camp Program at Florida Hospital Zephyrhills, poses with student Emily Daffron, one of 20 students taking part in the academy.
(B.C. Manion/Staff Photos)

The camp, which concluded on June 26, gave 20 students a chance to work side-by-side with experienced health care professionals to see for themselves if the world of medicine is right for them.

The students were selected through a competitive process, said Greg Mathis, of Pasco County Schools, the program coordinator for the B.E.S.T. program in Zephyrhills.

“The program is new here in Pasco County. It’s been in Hillsborough County for 10 years,” Mathis said.

Dr. Dexter Frederick initiated the program at Florida Hospital Tampa because of a desire to give kids a chance to enter the arena of medicine to see that it’s a dream they could make come true for themselves, Mathis said.

It was expanded to Florida Hospital Zephyrhills this year, after Camille Watkins, assistant principal at Zephyrhills High School, inquired into the possibility of bringing the program to Pasco County students.

Watkins’ twin sons, Abera and Addelove, both attended the Florida Hospital Tampa program last year, Mathis said.

TeNiiyah Gore, a participant at the B.E.S.T. Academy Camp Program at Florida Hospital Zephyrhills, said the program ‘gives us a chance to discover what we want to be.’

Both said they benefited from the experience they had in the B.E.S.T. Academy Program at Florida Hospital Tampa last year. And, they helped with the program at Florida Hospital Zephyrhills this year.

Abera Watkins said he wants to specialize in pediatrics, while his twin brother, Addelove, wants to specialize in cardiology.

Both of them said they are willing to do the work and take on the debt to make those dreams a reality.

Early exposure to potential health care career options is critical, Mathis said.

“Kids may never even think about medicine, because mom and dad didn’t go to college,” Mathis said.

But, he added, if they become aware of options they want to explore, they can be sure to take the proper classes to enable them to lay the groundwork for those careers.

The Zephyrhills program accepted freshmen through seniors, who were selected through a process that considered a variety of factors, including their academic record and interviews with them and their parents, Mathis said.

Students taking part in the Pasco program came from Zephyrhills, Pasco and Wiregrass Ranch high schools.

Joan Conrad, director of patient experience at Florida Hospital Zephyrhills, coordinated the hospital’s participation.

Program participant Alexayra Classen enjoyed observing the hospital’s operating room. ‘It’s really fast. No one bumps into each other. That was interesting, how they all kind of work around each other,’ she said.

“I think it’s fantastic,” Conrad said. It can help give kids a road map to pursuing their dreams, she said, noting some kids know they want something, but have no idea how to pursue it.

By observing and talking to people who work in the field, students get a real feel for possible careers in health care, Conrad said. In some cases, they may find out that a field they thought they wanted to pursue isn’t exactly what they had pictured. In other cases, they may be exposed to a career that they find captivating.

Mathis, who is a teacher for Pasco County Schools, is delighted with Florida Hospital’s support of the program.

“I can’t say enough about Florida Hospital, and what they’re doing. I am thrilled, overwhelmed,” Mathis said.

Activities in the program included hospital rotations, classroom instruction, guest speakers and workshops on health careers and health issues.

“The good thing is that now we have a lot of kids who say, ‘This is possible.’ ” Mathis said.

“It’s a lot of hard work. That’s been stressed. Don’t think that anything you feel is worthwhile in life is going to be easy,” Mathis said. “We’re not only preaching medicine, medicine, medicine. We’re preaching professionalism, courtesy, hard work.

“It’s hands-on. That’s the beautiful part of it,” Mathis said.

The students are exposed to different health careers and different options, to see which one best fits them.

“Like today, we have kids in the OR (operating room), OB (obstetrics), ICU (intensive care unit), post-cardiac care, dietary. They’re everywhere,” Mathis said.

Jenny Craig, will be a sophomore at Pasco High, was enjoying the experience.

Jenny Craig said she took part in the program because she thought it ‘would be a great opportunity to get some experience in OB (obstetrics), as well as the other departments.’

“I’ve always been interested in medicine. I thought this would be a great opportunity to get some experience in OB (obstetrics), as well as the other departments.

“Today, I was on a PT (physical therapy) rotation. I thought it was really cool,” she said.

TeNiiyah Gore, will be a junior at Zephyrhills High School, said the experience is beneficial for students.

“I think it gives us a chance to discover what we want to be. It helps us to see what it’s like to be in the medical field and whether you want to be here or not,” Gore said.

Alexayra Classen, who will be a senior at Pasco High School, said she’s leaning toward a career in neonatal nursing.”

She enjoyed observing the way things work in the hospital’s operating room.

“It’s really fast. No one bumps into each other. That was interesting, how they all kind of work around each other,” Classen said.

Emily Daffron, who will be a senior at Zephyrhills High School, knows that her future holds a career in the health care arena.

“I’m really dead set on pursuing a medical career. I don’t have any other backup plans,” Daffron said. “I really want to be a nurse. I want to interact with patients and I want to have an impact on their lives.”

In addition to gaining from the experience, the students got scrubs with the B.E.S.T. logo on them, and also a medical starter kit.

The starter kit contains thermometers, litmus testers, gloves, a stethoscope and other medical equipment.

The two-week B.E.S.T. program began on June 15 and concluded with a graduation ceremony on June 26.

B.E.S.T. Academy participants
These students took part in the inaugural B.E.S.T. Academy program at Florida Hospital Zephyrhills: Lyndsey Lee, Alexayra Classen, TeNiiyah Gore, Eve Faison, Sandra Garcia, Janessa Barbar, Jamiqua Mutcherson, Keith Brockington, Nora Ripley, Alec Troidl, Jamie Howard, Tabria James, John First, Bailey Douberley, Kiaria Singleton, Dahian Iozada, Jenny Craig, Maycalla Hicks, Emily Daffron and Christy Saji.

Published July 8, 2015

Hooters coming to Land O’ Lakes? Not so fast

November 20, 2014 By Michael Hinman

Could it be a little wishful thinking?

Drivers heading north on Land O’ Lakes Boulevard saw a surprise announcement on the sign that once shared dinner specials at the old Mosquito Grill & Bar: the long-rumored Hooters chain was coming to that location next year.

The problem, however, is it’s not true. At least for now.

“I’ve called it one of Land O’ Lakes’ biggest urban legends,” said Meredith Kleker, executive director of the Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce. “All I’ve ever heard about that is rumors, and we’ve been hearing them for years.”

In fact, Hooters was rumored to be coming to Land O’ Lakes in 2012 when Rapscallions was still open at 4422 Land O’ Lakes Blvd. The owner of the restaurant, however, told an online publication at the time that it wasn’t true, nor were reports that Rapscallions was closing.

Rapscallions did indeed close a short time later, but Hooters didn’t swoop in to take over the lakeside property. Mosquito Grill & Bar opened there instead.

That restaurant shut down last spring, once again opening the rumor floodgates that included the Clearwater-based chain. And since Centennial Bank claimed ownership of the 2 acres of land that covers the two lakeside lots along U.S. 41, the sign announcing the new Hooters was even more believable.

There are plans for the land, and there is even a potential buyer working to get it under contract, but it’s not for Hooters, said Bill Nye, a commercial real estate broker in Wesley Chapel.

“There is definitely not a Hooters going in there,” Nye said, although he said it was far too early to give details on what might go there instead.

Nye’s name came into the mix after he called Pasco County officials three weeks ago asking about the property, according to Ruthann Dattoli of the county’s planning and development department. His questions centered around county requirements that might come into place if a developer decided to raze the 42-year-old building, or simply remodel it.

Nye also mentioned that the neighboring residential lot to the north could be turned into a parking lot, Dattoli said.

It would be difficult for a restaurant chain to build something new on the land, Nye said, because its lakeside location has far different environmental requirements than what existed in the 1970s.

“It’s going to be almost impossible to tear that building down and put another one there,” said Nye, the owner of Nye Commercial Advisors. “There are some stringent setbacks to adhere to, and the county is not going to bend very much on them.”

Centennial foreclosed on a $900,000 mortgage on the property owed by C of Pasco Inc., last month, which purchased the property in 2010. At the time, it was the home of Rapscallions, which was featured in a 2011 episode of the former Travel Channel program “Man v. Food,” hosted by Adam Richman.

An ownership group associated with Rapscallions purchased the property in 2005 for just under $1 million, and continued to operate the restaurant there even after selling to C of Pasco in 2010.

Mosquito struggled to follow Rapscallions despite plans to completely remodel the location. Yet, no matter who takes over that land, it’s a prime piece of real estate, said the chamber’s Kleker said.

“If you look at that location, it’s a good location,” she said. “And it’s not too close to other stores.”

It’s also not far from Ukulele Brand’s, which has a lakeside restaurant on the other side of Land O’ Lakes Boulevard. Yet, even if a new restaurant goes into the Mosquito spot, Kleker feels there’s still plenty of business to go around.

“I don’t think it would hurt Uke’s at all,” she said. “It’s good to have a thriving business in our community. And while we love our small businesses, we still love all businesses that can thrive here.”

A spokeswoman for Hooters of America Inc., and the related original company Hooters Inc. — which both own Hooters restaurants throughout the country — told The Laker/Lutz News Monday there were no plans to open a Hooters in Land O’ Lakes.

That would leave the closest Hooters restaurant in Port Richey, which is owned by Hooters Inc., the original Hooters company that owns a handful of locations in the Tampa Bay area, as well as Chicago and New York City.

Correction to print edition story: Hooters of America and Hooters Inc. both continue to operate and open Hooters restaurants throughout the United States. Although Hooters of America, based in Atlanta, is responsible for the national brand, Hooters Inc. in Clearwater — owned by the chain founders — still control the Tampa Bay territory, as well as additional restaurants in Chicago and New York. Hooters Inc. controls all the Hooters restaurants in the Tampa Bay region, including the one at Bruce B. Downs Boulevard. A story in the Nov. 19 edition of The Laker/Lutz News stated otherwise.

Published November 19, 2014

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Retired woman writes a new chapter in life

November 20, 2014 By B.C. Manion

After spending a career in the high-pressure arena of hospital risk management, Linda Pollock retired a couple of years ago and promptly immersed herself into a new full-time endeavor.

The Land O’ Lakes woman, who turns 70 this month, often devotes 10 hours or more a day to writing.

Linda Pollock, who writes under the name Linda J. Pifer, holds two of her finished works. ‘Ohio Girl’ is a memoir about growing up in Ohio. The other book, ‘Windows,’ is a novel that the author describes as part romance, part genealogical mystery. (B.C. Manion/Staff Photo)

She finished her first book, a memoir called “Ohio Girl,” in 2013. Just a few weeks ago, she published a novel called “Windows,” which is available through print-by-demand on Amazon.

She’s also done the writing for “Daniel Smith,” a second novel that continues the story she began in “Windows.” But she still needs to edit “Daniel Smith” before she can publish it.

Then, she expects to follow that with “Copper Swift,” which will either round out the trilogy, or set the stage for a fourth book in the series. She’s aiming for a 2015 release date for “Daniel Smith,” and a 2016 publication date for “Copper Swift.”

Pollock, who publishes under her maiden name, Linda J. Pifer, always has loved to write.

“I had an English lit teacher when I was in high school that just really encouraged me to use the gift,” Pollock said. “He really was my inspiration, when I was a kid.”

Initially, she studied nursing and planned to pursue that as a career.

“That’s what girls did then,” she said.

It didn’t take her long to discover that nursing wasn’t her true calling, so she enlisted in the U.S. Navy. After her stint there, she went into retail work.

Later, she began working for hospitals — first, as an administrative clerk, and then later in risk management. She finished her career doing just that for the former University Community Hospital, now Florida Hospital Tampa.

Over the years, Pollock wrote articles for hospital newsletters. She penned her first nationally circulated work in 2003, a piece about her uncle called “The Cloverfinder” that was published in Country Magazine.

After she retired, Pollock turned her attention to telling the story of growing up in Ohio, surrounded by her family. She culled through hundreds of photographs to accompany her memoir that details her life and her recollections about her grandparents, great aunts, uncles and other family members on both sides of the Pifer, Wanamaker and Guerin families.

Her first novel “Windows” focuses on a Florida woman whose husband has died from cancer. The main character, Sarah Sandlin, is obsessed with genealogy, and uses it as a way to hide from life.

“She wants to let go of her grief,” but she can’t, the author said.

Eventually, Sarah receives a letter from one of her husband’s friends who wants her to come to the United Kingdom to research his family’s genealogy. She agrees, which leads to a story that Pollock describes as both romance and genealogical mystery.

As Sarah uncovers secrets hidden in the old estate house, a New Zealand connection emerges which leads to the next novel, “Daniel Smith.”

That novel tells the story of Daniel Smith, who travels to New Zealand from Scotland with his wife on a masted ship in 1843.

Pollock’s novels draw heavily from her imagination, but also involve considerable research. She uses the Internet, books, movies and other sources to help create the backdrop for her stories.

She even consulted with a member of Blackheath Dawn Writers, a United Kingdom writers group, to ensure that the descriptions of her settings and the dialect she uses create an authentic look and feel.

The Land O ‘ Lakes author understands there’s no guarantee that her hard work will attract a broad audience or yield a lucrative return. Still, she’s willing to invest the time and creative energy that’s required.

“You’ve got this stuff in you, and you’ve got to put it down on paper, even if it is just for my family or someone that looks at it on some dusty shelf in 20 years,” she said.

Even though she’s content to lose herself in the work, Pollock has one regret.

“It’s a shame I didn’t start sooner,” she said.

She believes it takes authors 15 to 20 years to become established and widely known.

“Now, I’m 70,” Pollock said. “And even if I lived to be 90, I’ve only got 20 more years.”

Published November 19, 2014

See this story in print: Click Here

Sorry, no Hooters planned for Land O’ Lakes

November 17, 2014 By Michael Hinman

It was a surprise to many drivers going north on U.S. 41 over the weekend.

It appears someone is pulling a prank on people driving by the old Mosquito Grill & Bar location on Land O' Lakes Boulevard. Hooters of America denies a restaurant from its chain is opening there. (Michael Hinman/Staff photo). — It appears someone is pulling a prank on people driving by the old Mosquito Grill & Bar location on Land O’ Lakes Boulevard. Hooters denies a restaurant from its chain is opening there. (Michael Hinman/Staff photo).

A bright yellow sign, painted using stencil, was posted on the old marquee board of the former Mosquito Grill & Bar restaurant at 4422 Land O’ Lakes Blvd. It seemed to confirm a longstanding rumor that the Hooters restaurant chain was opening there in 2015.

But it’s simply not true.

“Hooters does not currently have plans to open a location in Land O’ Lakes,” according to a written statement from Hooters of America LLC, given to The Laker/Lutz News Monday afternoon. However, the Atlanta-based company did use the rumor as a chance to promote its search for franchise owners throughout the nation, and maybe someday this part of Pasco County.

Hooters of America manages the largest number of Hooters restaurants in the country, while the original Hooters company in Clearwater — Hooters Inc. — controls a few dozen restaurants in the Tampa Bay area, Chicago and New York City, including Pasco’s only location in Port Richey.

Hooters Inc. handles the Tampa Bay territory, and would be responsible for the opening of any new restaurants in the area. Neil Kiefer, chief executive of the company, told The Laker/Lutz News Tuesday morning that while the sign promoting a new Hooters in Land O’ Lakes is not true now, there could come a point in the near future where one is opened.

“We have continued to look for appropriate sites for a Hooters restaurant in both Eastern Pasco and Northern Hillsborough (counties), but have yet to find a site that fits all our criteria,” Kiefer said, in an email. “We have no idea who placed the Hooters name and sign on this property, but thank you for bringing this to our attention.”

Want to learn more about this rumor, and what might be the future of this land along Bell Lake? Check out this week’s print edition of The Laker/Lutz News, hitting newsstands on Wednesday. You can read the full story now by clicking here.

This story was corrected 11/18 at 9:04 a.m., to indicate that the Bruce B. Downs Boulevard location also is controlled by Hooters Inc., and to add statement from Hooters Inc. chief executive Neil Kiefer.

Link to print edition story added 11/19 at midnight.

Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel looks west for new CEO

July 14, 2014 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Denyse Bales-Chubb is the new president and chief executive for Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel, beginning Aug. 1.

She replaces Brian Adams, who filled a similar position at Florida Hospital Tampa earlier this year.

Denyse Bales-Chubbs — Denyse Bales-Chubb

“Denyse is committed to our mission and growing the legacy of Seventh-day Adventist health care,” said Don Jernigan, president and chief executive of Adventist Health System, in a release. “I’m pleased to welcome her to our system, and look forward to seeing her contributions to both Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel and Adventist Health System.”

Bales-Chubb brings more than 25 years of health care experience, most recently serving as vice president and administrator of Adventist Medical Center Selma and Adventist Medical Center Reedley, both located in Southern California. She has worked for other organizations as well, including United WestLabs, Valley Baptist Health Plan, Tenet Health System, Columbia Healthcare, Lutheran Health Systems, and Arkansas Valley Regional Medical Center.

“Denyse’s proven success in enhancing the patient experience is going to be a tremendous asset to this region,” said Michael Schultz, president and chief executive of West Florida Region of Adventist Health System, in a release. “She puts quality and patient safety first, approaches physicians as true business partners, and believes in transparent and direct communication. This is the formula we need for Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel’s next phase of growth.

Bales-Chubb holds a master’s degree in health care administration from Wichita State University in Kansas, and a bachelor’s degree in medical technology and biology from Fort Hays State University in Missouri.

“When I visited Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel, I was so impressed with the energy and engagement of the staff and physicians,” Bales-Chubb said in a release. “I am excited to join the team and build on the incredible success the hospital has already had because I believe the hospital’s opportunities are endless.”

Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel is an 83-bed facility located on Bruce B. Downs Boulevard in central Pasco County. It opened in 2012 on land once owned by the Porter family.

Florida Hospital hosts cancer symposium

March 20, 2014 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Florida Hospital Tampa will host a cancer symposium focusing on breast, gastrointestinal and lung cancer March 25 from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Speakers for the event include Drs. Charles Cox, Alexander Rosemurgy, Dragos Zanchi, Harvey Greenberg and Ron Schiff. They will be available for roundtables and breakout sessions highlighting information about physical therapy for cancer patients, palliative care and advice for caregivers.

The American Cancer Society said 1.66 million new cancer cases are expected to be diagnosed in 2014, and more than 585,000 will die this year — practically 1,600 people per day. Cancer is the second most common cause of death in the United States, behind only heart disease.

The cancer society also said that cancers associated with lifestyles and behaviors related to economic development — including lung, breast and colorectal cancers — will continue to rise in developing countries if preventive measures are not widely applied, according to a release.

Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths among women, beaten only by lung cancer. One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime, but survival rates are continuing to rise.

Cancers of the gastrointestinal tract include esophageal, stomach, pancreas, liver, gallbladder, biliary and colorectal cancers. Pancreatic cancer affects approximately 45,000 people each year in the United States, with an almost equal number of deaths. It is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related death in the United States.

Lung cancer is the most common of all the cancers, accounting for more deaths annually than the next three forms of cancer combined — colon, breast and prostate. While the cancer traditionally has afflicted men more than women, the rates of lung cancer has risen in the past 25 years.

The symposium will be held at the USF Embassy Suites Hotel near the University of South Florida, 3705 Spectrum Blvd.

To register, visit FHTampa.org/CancerSymposium, or call (813) 615-7300.

From paramedic to foot and ankle physician

November 13, 2013 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Dr. William Trabulsi, a family foot and ankle care physician, wants your feet to be happy. Your feet are the foundation of the body. A sore, cut or bruise can adversely affect your ankles, knees or hips, especially if you’re changing the way you walk to keep the pressure off the problem. Minor issues can turn into major problems later on if they’re not taken care of quickly.

“Foot pain is an indication that something is wrong,” says Dr. Trabulsi. “Just like the dentist, everyone needs regular preventative checkups to avoid complications that can lead to significant problems later on especially if you’re diabetic.

Children are particularly at risk for foot problems. The bones in the child’s foot aren’t fully formed until about the age of eighteen. If a child has flat feet, it is much easier to treat at a younger age. As the bones fuse, the problem may be permanent requiring more aggressive treatment.

November is national diabetes month. “Diabetes throws off the immune system and makes it harder for healing to occur,” says Dr. Trabulsi. “Diabetes can cause a condition called neuropathy which is nerve damage causing lack of sensation.” Diabetes is a leading cause of nontraumatic lower limb amputations.

The smaller blood vessels in the feet and legs are susceptible to blood circulation issues. People with diabetes or coronary heart problems need to pay particular attention to their feet. Keeping the weight off is also a big issue, especially for diabetics.

Dr. Trabulsi provides foot and ankle care for children through senior adults. He has been providing this service to the area for eight years now. He and his family reside in Land O’ Lakes.

He graduated from Temple University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in 2002. After completing his residency in 2004, he moved to Florida to be near his wife’s family. He’s originally a resident of New York City and still has family living there. He and his wife have been married for 20 years. In his spare time he enjoys playing golf.

Podiatry is Dr. Trabulsi’s second career. Before this he was a paramedic. “I wanted to further my medical career and podiatry seemed like a good fit,” says Dr. Trabulsi. “I saw a definite need for this type of care.”

Dr. Trabulsi has office hours on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday. He can usually get people in the same day and has good rates for those without insurance. He has good rapport with local primary care physicians and is affiliated with Florida Hospital Tampa.

He is located at Greystone Professional park, 19013 N. Dale Mabry Highway, in Lutz. He can be reached at (813) 406-4806.

– Mike Matthew

This story is a feature of the advertising department.

These pediatricians provide personalized care

September 25, 2013 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

When your child is sick, you don’t want to wade through automated prompts, voice mail menus or negotiate with an answering service. You want a live person to help answer your concerns and a physician’s office, who knows you by name, not medical record number.

Dr. Yanina Abaunza-Fiallos, left and Dr. Luisa Gomez McElroy are board certified pediatricians practicing at Dr. Nina's Pediatrics in Lutz. — Dr. Yanina Abaunza-Fiallos, left and Dr. Luisa Gomez McElroy are board certified pediatricians practicing at Dr. Nina’s Pediatrics in Lutz.

Being mothers themselves, the staff at Dr. Nina’s Pediatrics places great emphasis on answering family concerns. These physicians founded their practice around the premise of patient-centered care and accessibility. Patients are always able to reach the staff quickly and easily during office hours and they strive to personally answer phone calls after hours.

Dr. Yanina Abaunza-Fiallos has been practicing in the Tampa area for 17 years, and opened her own practice in Lutz in November 2003. Dr. Luisa Gomez McElroy has been practicing in the Tampa area for 15 years, joining Dr. Nina in May 2012. Both doctors are board certified by the American Board of Pediatrics.

“We’re a small practice,” says Dr. Nina. “There are only two doctors. This allows us to get to know our patients well.”

“We love our patients and their families,” says Dr. Luisa. “We don’t just provide a diagnosis and move on. Dr. Nina and Dr. Luisa always take the time to answer questions and educate their patients and their parents.

Dr. Nina and Dr. Luisa pay close attention to each child’s development and provide parents with tools to recognize development issues early on. Topics such as nutrition and growth are discussed during wellness visits to identify any issues or concerns before they become a problem. They give parents ample opportunity to ask questions to optimize the child’s path to wellness.

“We follow recommended check-up schedules and place a strong emphasis on prevention and vaccinations, says Dr. Luisa.” We firmly believe vaccinations are a part of keeping our children healthy. Our recommendations are based on the American Academy of Pediatric guidelines.

Both doctors have many patients in their practice that they cared for from the day they were born, with many continuing to see them into their 20s. As their former patients become parents themselves, they are returning to bring their own children. Doctors and nurses also trust their children’s care to Dr. Nina and Dr. Luisa which is very heartwarming for them and their staff.

“We’re not just for babies,” says Dr. Nina. “We also provide vaccinations for college, and perform high school and college physical examinations. We deliver 24-hour emergency service and can normally accommodate same-day appointments.”

Dr. Nina and Dr. Luisa are affiliated with three area hospitals: Florida Hospital Tampa, St. Joseph’s Women’s Hospital and St. Joseph’s Hospital North, where they are available to provide newborn care. Free prenatal consultations are also offered so that parents can get to know their baby’s doctor prior to delivery.

As a student, Dr. Nina was initially interested in teaching children with special needs. Because of this early exposure to children with medical disabilities, she changed career paths to medicine in order to further impact their outcome. Pediatrics was definitely the right path for Dr. Nina and it is a passion that is ignited every time she comes to work.

Dr. Luisa decided on a career in pediatrics during medical school. She developed a passion for caring for children. She feels pediatrics has one of the greatest impacts on patients’ lives, as she can educate and teach prevention starting in early life.

Dr. Nina and Dr. Luisa are currently accepting new patients at Dr. Nina’s Pediatrics, and welcome the opportunity to be a part of your child’s life. Accessibility, quality and personalized care are just a few of the core values of Dr. Nina’s Pediatrics.

Dr. Nina’s Pediatrics is located at 18572 N. Dale Mabry Highway in Lutz. They can be reached at (813) 964-1800, or online at www.DoctorNina.com.

– Mike Matthew

This story was written by the advertising department.