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THERESA CERULLI, M.D.:  CHANGING THE PARADIGM FOR  TREATMENT OPTIONS FOR  ATTENTION DEFICIT DISORDER AND ATTENTION DEFICIT HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER

By:  D.A. Sears

       She is a graduate of Tufts University, the University of Massachusetts Medical School, the Harvard Longwood Residency Program in Adult Psychiatry, and the Harvard Fellowships in Medical Psychiatry and Neuropsychiatry.   She is Theresa Cerulli, M.D., a former Medical Director for the Hallowell Center in Sudbury, Massachusetts, and the co-founder and Chief Medical Officer for the ADD Health and Wellness Center in North Andover, Massachusetts where she specializes in the holistic treatment of children and adults with Attention Deficit Disorder (“ADD”) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (“ADHD”) and co-existing behavioral health conditions  .Dr. Cerulli is a Board Certified in Psychiatry and is on staff at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston and Hallmark Health's Lawrence Memorial Hospital.   A recipient of the 1997 Harvard Residency Teaching Award, Dr. Cerulli has published several journal articles in the Harvard Review of Psychiatry and was an Instructor at Harvard Medical School for 8 years where she lectured on a range of neuropsychiatric topics including Attention Deficit Disorder, Depression and Electroconvulsive Therapy.

         Dr. Cerulli has served nationally as an expert witness for ADHD and works as a consultant and speaker for Shire and Novartis Pharmaceuticals in their CNS divisions.  Currently she is a sub-investigator with East Coast Clinical Research for two Phase IV psychotropic medication trials.   Her work on ADD and ADHD has put her in the media spotlight.  Dr. Cerulli has appeared on Channel 7’s Urban Update where she participated in a debate on the use of psychotropic medications in children with ADHD and was the subject of interviews on WBCN Radio where she discussed ADHD diagnosis and treatment and on Channel 56’s Health Watch regarding ADHD and the use of Quantitative EEG.   Recently, Dr. Cerulli accepted a Medical Advisory Board position with Kiwi Magazine.

         Where did Dr. Cerulli grow up? 

           “I grew up in Melrose, Massachusetts, a northern suburb of Boston. I was born, raised and educated in Massachusetts despite my childhood idea of moving to a warmer climate. My family roots are there, and as I grew those family ties were much more important than escaping a few snow storms in our extended New England winters,” Dr. Cerulli responded. 

         When I asked Dr. Cerulli to talk about the role models that she had as she made her journey from childhood to adulthood, she quickly pointed to her mother.   Her mother has been and continues to be her source of inspiration. 

            “My mother played a significant role in shaping my journey from childhood to adulthood. I was not an easy child to raise. I was headstrong and stubborn, wanting to learn by my own mistakes rather than listening to guidance. Perhaps that is the core of my love for working with ADHD children and adults. I have special praises for their will and passion.  Mom has been and continues to be my inspiration. I distinctly remember as a child, her common household teaching, ‘Never say I can’t, say I’ll try.’  Her work ethic and strength are extraordinary. Without receiving any formal education herself, she emphasized the importance of education and kept her promise that she would find a way to shoulder four children financially and emotionally through college against significant odds.” 

       What motivated Dr. Cerulli to embark upon a career path which focuses on ADD/ADHD? 

        “I attended Tufts University in Medford, Massachusetts where I majored in biology, then I went on to attend the University of Massachusetts Medical School in Worcester, Massachusetts where I completed my psychiatry residency at the Harvard Longwood program in Boston. I was always fascinated by the interplay between medicine and psychology, and went on to do a fellowship in Medical Psychiatry at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and then a second fellowship in Neuropsychiatry at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston. During my neuropsychiatry fellowship I cared for clients with various underlying neurobiological conditions that led to psychological and cognitive changes such as Alzheimer’s, strokes, head trauma, and ADHD. I found working with my ADHD patients to be most energizing and rewarding – they get better! With a little guidance and structure ADHD clients will often excel. Many are creative, spontaneous and entrepreneurial thinkers once you get past the structural issues that get in their way. As fate would have it my husband was later diagnosed with ADHD as an adult – no, not by me. And so began my ADHD career personally and professionally.” 

         The discussion moved to Dr. Cerulli’s position at the national ADD Health and Wellness Center in North Andover, Massachusetts – an institution she co-founded.    What are some of the programs and services offered by the ADD Health and Wellness Center to ADHD patients? 

         “I now gratefully serve as the Chief Medical Officer for the national ADD Health and Wellness Centers which is a national organization. We currently have offices in Dallas, Austin, Houston, and the greater Boston area with plans to open several more locations in the near future including Washington D.C. Our reach is already widespread beyond the clinic walls.  We have built-in programs that we can administer 100% by phone such as ADD coaching and Cogmed Working Memory Training which is a five-week software based program the client participates in from the comfort of their own home, with the support of a trained clinician to improve attention, working memory, and academic skills.  We are an organization specializing in the holistic care of children and adults, aiming to improve attention, memory, focus, and emotional well being. We help people set and meet their personal goals, improve their minds, learning, behaviors, relationships, and happiness. Did you know that happiness could be a goal?” Dr. Cerulli remarked. 

         What is ADD?  What is ADHD?  I was surprised to learn that ADD and ADHD are the same.   

          “ADD and ADHD are one and the same,” Dr. Cerulli explained.  “The correct terminology is ADHD with qualifiers such as predominately inattentive type, predominately hyperactive/impulsive type, or combined type. ADHD is a neurobiological condition with strong genetic underpinnings. The hereditability factor is .77 which means that 77% of people who have ADHD do so based on their genes. That still means that 23% have ADHD based on non-genetic factors such as maternal smoking, birth trauma, or environmental factors. The three hallmark symptoms of ADHD are inattention, impulsivity and hyperactivity or restlessness, but these symptoms can present very differently in each individual. For example, people with ADHD may struggle with varying degrees of difficulty staying on task, paying attention in conversations, following through on details, or organizing and planning events. They may be restless and distractible, or perhaps impulsive and short tempered. Or maybe they simply have the quiet and day-dreamy type of ADHD.” 

        Is ADHD a new phenomenon?  Dr. Cerulli says “No!” 

         “ADHD is not a new condition. Though the name has changed over time, the diagnosis dates back to the 1930s. It is an old condition with new understanding, research, and awareness. With raised awareness, the term ADHD became more familiar and seemingly “over-diagnosed”. But by statistical measures, 7% of school aged children have ADHD and 4% of adults, which means we are still significantly under-diagnosing the condition.” 

        So, are there diagnostic tests for ADHD?  How is ADHD diagnosed? 

       “Diagnosing ADHD is simple yet extremely complex at the same time because so many other conditions cause problems with attention and concentration. In our overwhelmed, stressed-out culture on any given day we can all seem like we have ADHD.  To add to the confusion, there are many conditions that can co-exist with ADHD such as learning disabilities, anxiety, sleep disorders, and depression or bipolar depression,” Dr. Cerulli responded. 

         What treatment options are available for ADHD patients? 

         “Treatment options for ADHD have really broadened.  Structured therapy, ADD coaching, working memory training, natural supplements, parent training, academic supports, social skills training, family counseling, and ongoing developments in medications (both stimulant and non-stimulant) are all interventions shown to be helpful. Great news is someone diagnosed with ADHD today has many options beyond Ritalin. It’s an exciting time to be in this field of cognitive behavioral health.” 

        How effective are psychotropic medications such as Ritalin in combating ADD and ADHD? 

          “Effectiveness of stimulant medications for ADHD is approximately 70%. That means that most people can find a medication that will help if they choose. However 25 – 30% of people with either not feel benefit from taking medication, or will experience significant side effects that hinder using medication. Common immediate side effects may include loss of appetite, weight loss, jitteriness, heart racing, sleep disturbance, headaches, moodiness, and anxiety.”  

         I noted that Ritalin has been prescribed and continues to be prescribed for young children who have been diagnosed as having or perceived to have ADD or ADHD.  Are we doing more damage than good by allowing our children to take ADD or ADHD?  In what ways can Ritalin negatively impact on the physical and intellectual development of our children? 

          “The long term effects of Ritalin and other stimulant medications have been well studied. Research has shown that stimulants can cause growth delays, exacerbation of tic disorders, and increased tolerance - which means needing higher doses of the medication to get the same benefit. The greatest risk with stimulant medication is their misuse and abuse. Particularly frightening is the sharing and selling of these drugs on college campuses. However, when taken as prescribed with close monitoring by a knowledgeable physician, medication can be helpful. I strongly recommend that clients visit with an ADHD specialist who can carefully evaluate the individual needs of the client from a holistic perspective. Medication should never be the sole focus of ADHD treatment.” 

      Transcendental Meditation has been introduced as a treatment option for children and adults who have been diagnosed with ADHD.  I asked Dr. Cerulli to share her thoughts on transcendental meditation as a treatment option for children and adults who have been diagnosed with ADHD.   

        “Recent research supports the benefits of transcendental meditation as a wonderful treatment alternative for focus and concentration. Meditation has the unique dual effect of increasing ‘alertness’ brain waves to improve attention, while simultaneously inducing a physical and mental state of relaxation. A perfect fit for someone with ADHD!” Dr. Cerulli opined. 

        How can our readers contact the ADD Health and Wellness Center? 

         “Your readers can contact our ADD Health and Wellness offices at 1-866-324-2088 or visit our website at www.addhealthandwellness.com,” Dr. Cerulli commented. 

         And what’s next for Theresa Cerulli, M.D.? 

          “I hope to be on this life path for many years to come. I love my work as Chief Medical Officer for ADD Health and Wellness and strive to share our vision with as many people as possible. I’ve followed many clients for over 8 years and feel privileged to be part of their lives. I get to enjoy still working one on one with my clients, yet have the opportunity to extend what I do through teaching training, speaking, and overseeing our organization dedicated solely to this field of cognitive health and well being. We are now working on a book together with our clients who have been willing to share their stories to illustrate our personal team approach to ADHD. I give thanks to all of you who have volunteered for this important project.  Where do I go from here? Well, I have the small goal of changing the whole paradigm of how behavioral health care is administered. Why? ‘Never say you can’t, say I’ll try’.”

 

THERESA LAVOIE, PH.D.:  CREATING NEW POSSIBILITIES FOR CHILDREN AND ADULTS DIAGNOSED WITH ATTENTION DEFICIT DISORDER AND ATTENTION DEFICIT HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER

By:  D.A. Sears

          Her groundbreaking Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (“ADHD”) group treatment protocol which she pioneered at the Hallowell Center in Sudbury, Massachusetts and where she specialized in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD won her national recognition. U.S. News and World Report, the Jane Pauley Show and Reader’s Digest have all heralded her pioneering ADHD group treatment protocol.   She is the Co-Founder and Director of Psychological Services for ADD Health and Wellness in North Andover, Massachusetts where she specializes in the holistic treatment of children and adults with ADD/ADHD and co-existing behavioral health conditions.  She is Theresa Lavoie, Ph.D.  Dr. Lavoie holds a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Suffolk University where she focused on Clinical Neuropsychology and researched meditation in treating ADHD. Her internships in Behavioral Neurology were completed at the Harvard Longwood Program at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and in Pediatric Neuropsychology at New England Medical Center, while her post doctoral practice included five years at the Hallowell Center where she specialized in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD. She has served as an Adjunct faculty member in Psychology at the University of Massachusetts and Suffolk University where she has taught numerous classes in Psychological Assessment, Child and Adolescent Development, and Group Dynamics.  Sensory processing styles, treatments with diet, and fish oil supplements are just a sampling of Dr. Lavoie’s research contributions to ADHD.  She has worked as a forensic expert witness in both federal and local courts.   Dr. Lavoie has co-authored a regular column in ADDitude Magazine, supervises mental health professionals, and lectures on current topics in ADHD.  In her work as a Clinical Neuropsychologist in private practice, Dr. Lavoie has specialized in the diagnosis and treatment of children and adults with ADHD.

          Dr. Lavoie is creating new possibilities for children and adults who have been diagnosed with Attention Deficit Disorder (“ADD”) and ADHD Disorder through her specialization in the holistic treatment of ADD and ADHD at the ADD Health and Wellness Center which she co-founded.  Her refreshingly innovative approach to treating ADD and ADHD is one of the key “pieces of the puzzle” to helping ADD and ADHD patients to become well-adjusted and productive members of society. 

        Where did Dr. Lavoie grow up?  Where was she educated?

         “I grew up in Leominster, a small town in Massachusetts. I attended the University of Massachusetts in Boston for one year in 1984 but couldn’t keep up with the demands of working and going to school and withdrew after the first year. My 30th birthday prompted me to return to school and attend Suffolk University where I completed my undergraduate degree in clinical psychology. I thoroughly enjoyed psychology as an “older” student and became one of the first cohort of students to earn a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Suffolk University. Edith Kaplan, Ph.D., a world renowned neuropsychologist was a wonderful mentor at Suffolk who encouraged me to pursue my clinical interests by taking the time to understand how the brain works,” Dr. Lavoie responded.

        When I asked Dr. Lavoie to identify the role models she had as she made the journey from childhood to adulthood, she pointed to her sister as her first role model.

     “My sister was my first role model. Since our mother died when we were very young, our family’s priorities seemed to be more about survival than about education and ambition. My sister changed that when she was the first in the family to attend college. Unfortunately my path was less direct. I wasn’t able to handle college successfully at first. I was supporting myself and taking loans to pay for school. My brother died during my first year of college in 1984 and I couldn’t complete school.  At 19, after withdrawing from school, I met my second mentor, George, a successful realtor who was willing to teach me everything he knew about sales, connecting with people, and business strategy. Very quickly I was winning national awards and my sales career was flourishing. However, my personal life was less successful and I was divorced by age 20. I was haunted by an unhappy childhood and a great deal of personal loss. Fortunately a close friend told me about ‘therapy’ and how it could help me heal from my pain.” 

      Who or what inspires Dr. Lavoie?    

        “I am inspired when I witness people opening up to new possibilities. When people shift awareness from their thoughts to the present moment they feel happier, more confident, and see life as filled with possibilities. I am moved when people recognize they can let go of their pain. That although pain is inevitable, the suffering they experience is optional.” 

       During her post doctoral practice, Dr. Lavoie specialized in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD at the Hallowell Center and pioneered the Hallowell Center’s ADHD group treatment protocol which was nationally recognized by U.S. News World Report, the Jane Pauley Show, and Reader’s Digest.  When asked what motivated her to specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD during her post doctoral practice, Dr. Lavoie offered the following: 

          “My motivation began when I completed my dissertation which looked at the effects of meditation on symptoms of ADHD. It was through this work that my interest in ADHD grew considerably, especially when their symptoms improved after meditation. My Dissertation Committee helped me realize that non-pharmacological treatment approaches for ADHD were very much needed in the field.”  

            I asked Dr. Lavoie to describe the ADHD group treatment protocol which she developed at the Hallowell Center. 

           “I developed a strategies-based support group which was a combination of coaching, practical techniques for helping with everyday life and therapeutic support,”  Dr. Lavoie explained.  “What I found was that group members were eager to learn from each other – there was a way that other members had great credibility when they spoke because of their real life experiences. It was also a wonderful opportunity for individuals who have been struggling to share their experiences in a safe environment. Many people had never told anyone before that they were even diagnosed with ADHD. Finally there is a sense of ‘universality,’ in other words, people connected with others with the same struggle…kind of a ‘welcome to the human race experience’!”   

What motivated Dr. Lavoie to develop this protocol?   

           “I was struck when working with individuals with similar struggles. I found myself wishing they could talk to each other. At the time, I was working with a lot of successful entrepreneurs who felt isolated and as if they were the only one with struggles with procrastination or organization. I knew they would benefit greatly from meeting other successful people whom they would respect,” she replied.

          The conversation moved to the matter of diagnosing a condition of ADD or ADHD.  What is the criteria used to diagnose these conditions? 

          “A proper diagnosis is best achieved via both subjective and objective data. Subjective data includes reporting on behavioral features -- reliability is high -- and technically, symptoms must have occurred by age 7 according to DSM-IV – the Diagnostic And Statistical Manual Of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition --  criteria. It is also helpful to get information from multiple informants, for example, spouses, parents, or teachers. Additional subjective data is gathered from an extensive diagnostic interview which includes historical information about one’s family, academics, as well as one’s medical and employment history. Objective data is gathered via neuropsychological evaluations which include an assessment of sustained attention, executive functioning, memory, planning, and organization. It is critical to always assess one’s emotional functioning given the high rate of mood symptoms such as depression and anxiety with ADHD.  In addition, it is critical that professionals consider what ADHD is not.  For example, being sure to understand normal disruptions in attention such as sleep deprivation, fatigue, distractions

--such as noise--, normal development and aging, difficulties with vision or hearing, and/or medications such as antihistamines.  A proper diagnosis is looking to see what a client doesn’t have or what is being ‘ruled-out’ such as: mood disorders, anxiety, petit mal epilepsy, traumatic brain injury, neurodevelopmental disorders, learning disabilities, speech and language disorders,” Dr. Lavoie stated. 

         Fifty, forty and even as recent as 30 years ago, ADD and ADHD in children as well as adults was unheard of.   Has ADD and ADHD always been around or is it a new phenomenon?   

“ADHD has always been around and it just wasn’t recognized appropriately. Actually

some would argue that ADHD remains ‘under’ diagnosis even today.  For example, compared to males, girls and woman tend to be inattentive, day dreamy type than hyperactive. It is more likely that undiagnosed ADD patients will: 

·         Drop out or change schools by college age

·         Would have done well with academic accommodations had they been diagnosed

·         Self medicate (substances, food, caffeine, nicotine, internet, gambling)

·         Have low self esteem

·         Higher rates of pregnancy (risk taking behaviors)

·         Higher risk of STD’s

·         Increased anxiety and depression

·         Suffer from imposter syndrome -- ‘know how much harder they have to work than others’.” 

        Is ADD or ADHD hereditary? 

Dr. Lavoie says, “Yes!”  According to Dr. Lavoie twin, adoption, and family studies report

that 80% of ADHD is accounted for by genetics and she offers the following statistics:

§         Three times more common in the siblings of patients with ADD

§         Five times more common in the father of patients with ADD

§         Two times more common in Male second degree relatives

§         Seven times more common in twins who are adopted”

         It is estimated that approximately 4,000,000 children in the United States have been diagnosed with ADD or ADHD.  Children since time immemorial have always been “fidgety”, energetic, extremely active and at times experience difficulty concentrating or focusing.  Are we “jumping the gun” when we diagnose “fidgety” highly energetic and extremely active children as having ADD or ADHD.  

      “Yes, that is why a proper and extensive diagnostic evaluation is necessary,” Dr. Lavoie remarked. 

Shouldn’t we scrutinize our children’s diet, providie them with activities and mental exercises that capture their attention and expand their levels of concentration, as well as examine and revamp our coping skills in dealing with “fidgety”, highly energetic and extremely active children who have difficulty focusing and concentrating? 

          “Absolutely! That is why our center has been so successful. People want to consider how to help with these behaviors regardless if a diagnosis is warranted or not. In addition, addressing our clients from a holistic perspective is critical in ultimately improving their overall well being and happiness.” 

        Are there non-pharmacological treatments for ADD and ADHD?  What are they?  How effective are they? 

           “It is my belief that a holistic approach to treatment is the most ideal.  It is with a holistic and integrated approach that we see the best results for individuals. ADHD presents differently in different people and is also impacted greatly by the demands the person is experiencing at a given time.  In addition, treatment is individualized and its efficacy will depend on a number of factors such as what symptoms the person is struggling with, how much awareness they have about their struggles, and how motivated are they to work toward changes.” 

          Dr. Lavoie provided the following examples of effective non-pharmacologic treatments:   

-          Individual Therapy with someone educated and well trained in ADHD

-          Group Therapy: Helpful for both emotional support and practical input on areas of difficulty

-          ADHD Coaching: strategic support around particular areas of weakness with specific goal setting

-          Cogmed Working Memory Training

-          Nutritional Supplementation: designed specifically for areas of difficulty for folks with ADHD

       And what’s next for Theresa Lavoie, Ph.D.? 

“Expanding to open centers in the Maryland and Washington DC areas and increasing our clinician’s training to include more focus on mindfulness,” Dr. Lavoie enthusiastically responded.

 

 

 

ATTENTION DEFICIT HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER, CHILDREN AND RITALIN 

By:  Diane A. Sears

         Are you the parent or relative of a child that has been diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder – or ADHD? 

          Did you know that there is no test for ADHD?

          Did you know that many doctors base their diagnosis of ADHD on information gathered from parents, teachers and children? 

         Did you know that approximately 8% of children in the United States have   been diagnosed with ADHD?  Or that some form of psychiatric drug has been prescribed for 1 in 100 preschoolers who have been diagnosed with ADHD?

          Did you know that the most common psychiatric medication prescribed for children – as well as adults -- diagnosed with ADHD is Ritalin?

        And did you know that medication is not your child’s only treatment option for ADHD?

        Now, just for the record, this article is not about bashing the medical, psychiatric and pharmaceutical communities.  This article is about providing you with key “pieces of the puzzle” that will help you make informed decisions about your child’s intellectual, physical and psychological development. 

         ADHD or “Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder” has been characterized as the most common behavioral and psychiatric disorder among children.  It is believed that ADHD was first described in 1845 by Dr. Heinrich Hoffman, a physician and poet who wrote books on medicine and psychiatry.  Unable to find materials to read to his three-year old son, Dr. Hoffman authored a book of poems about children and their characteristics.  One of his works, “The Story Of Fidgety Phillip” described a child who had the symptoms of ADHD.   

          So, what causes ADHD?   It is caused by improper levels of chemicals in the brain known as neurotransmitters.   

          Children who have been diagnosed with ADHD are perceived to have difficulty learning, focusing and being attentive and in controlling their behavior.  It is believed that children who have been diagnosed with ADHD have “impaired executive functions of the brain” which is perceived to result in their inability to control their behavior and their attentiveness.  It is believed that “attention deficit” continues into adulthood which can lead to frustration and difficulty in succeeding on a personal and professional level.  

         An article published in the November 2006 issue of the Journal of the American and Adolescent Psychiatry entitled, First Long Term Study Of Preschoolers Taking Ritalin, discussed the findings of a governmental study which explored not only the perceived benefits of taking Ritalin, but also the side effects of taking Ritalin.  The study was funded by the National Institute of Mental Health and spanned 70 weeks, which included 10 weeks of behavioral treatment along with parent training and about one year of drug treatment and involved children who were deemed to have “severe cases of ADHD.”  And what is a severe case of ADHD?  A severe case of ADHD has been described as “children engaging in dangerous activities” such as “hanging from ceiling fans, jumping off slides or playing with fire”.   It was reported that nearly 300 families were enrolled in the study and that many families dropped out of the study after the first phase.  Why?  It is believed that either the behavioral treatment offered by the study was effective in controlling ADHD or that the parents did not want to place their children on drugs. 

          So, what did the study reveal?   

          The study revealed that while Ritalin has benefits, it also has side effects that include irritability, weight loss, insomnia and slowed growth.  It also revealed that preschoolers taking Ritalin grew about half an inch less and gained about 2 pounds less. The study included 10 weeks of behavioral treatment along with parent training and about one year of drug treatment. While nearly 300 families were enrolled in the study, it was reported that many dropped out after the first phase.  Why did a number of families drop out of the study?  Either because the behavior treatment provided by the study worked or because they did not want to put their children on drugs. It is reported that approximately 40% of the children developed side effects from the study’s drug treatment and approximately 11% of the children participating in the study dropped out of the study because of “problems” that included “irritability, weight loss, insomnia and slowed growth”. 

        When asked to comment on the message conveyed by the governmental  study,  Dr. Thomas Insel, the Director of the National Institute of Mental Health, was quoted as saying:   “Proceed with caution.  We’re not talking about fidgety three year olds.”  

       So, if you have a child who has been diagnosed with ADHD, what do you do?  What are your options? 

        Well, there are a number of suggested options for treating ADHD which do not involve medications.  These suggested options include dietary and nutritional alternatives, acupuncture and biofeedback.  However, it should be noted that scientific data supporting the effectiveness of most of these approaches is scanty.  But don’t despair.  There is an alternative which has withstood the skeptic scrutiny of the scientific community and, according to reports, is helping children with ADHD, learning disabilities, autism and mood disorders.  What is it?  Transcendental Meditation! 

          According to Sarina J. Grosswald, Ed.D., the President of SJ Grosswald & Associates, a medical education consulting company, during the past 35 years, more than 600 studies have been performed which scrutinize the effectiveness of Transcendental Meditation in improving cognitive skills, moral reasoning and behavior, academic performance and stress-related problems.  Research exists which points to Transcendental Meditation’s effectiveness in combating ADHD. How?  It has been reported that Transcendental Meditation creates balance in the brain chemistry by balancing the levels of chemicals – or neurotransmitters – in the brain.  This, in turn, works to resolve impulsiveness, inattentiveness, lack of focus and lack of self-control – all of which are characteristics exhibited by children who have been diagnosed with ADHD.   The Transcendental Meditation technique has been described as a ‘simple, natural process that allows the mind to settle down to a condition of ‘restful alertness’ – a process which settles down the mind and deeply relaxes the body.  

         If your child has been diagnosed with ADHD, don’t panic!   You have options!

So what do you think?  If you would like to respond to this article click here and sign our Guestbook to leave a public or private statement, comment or reaction. 

 

CREATING KEY “PIECES OF THE PUZZLE” FOR SURVIVING A MEDICAL EMERGENCY 

By:  Diane A. Sears    

Picture this. 

You or a loved one has become seriously ill and requires hospitalization.  The severity of the illness has affected you or your loved one’s speech to the extent that you or your loved one cannot articulate the symptoms of the illness, the frequency with which the symptoms of the illness has been experienced, the identity and contact information of your or your loved one’s primary physician, a brief description of your or your loved one’s medical history, a brief description of the treatment and diagnosis rendered by your or your loved one’s primary physician, a list of the medications that you or your loved one has been taking along with the dosage of each of the medications and the frequency with which you or your loved one is required to take the medications in question. 

Your and/or your loved one’s chances of surviving a medical emergency that requires hospitalization hinges upon the ability to articulate with specificity the nature of the illness or the symptoms of the illness.  The ability to articulate with specificity the nature of an illness, the symptoms of an illness, the types of medication prescribed by a primary physician along with the dosage of the medication and the frequency with which it must be taken and a primary physician’s contact information is one of the key “pieces of the puzzle” for surviving a medical emergency.  Every second that an attending physician at a hospital has to spend time figuring out the nature of the illness that has caused you or your loved one to be rushed to the emergency ward, who your or your loved one’s primary physician is and how to get in touch with him or her, the types of medication that you or your loved one are taking and the dosage and frequency with which you or your loved one are taking the medications is a second that your or your loved one’s medical condition is going untreated.  In a medical emergency, one second could very well be the difference between life and death! 

What will you or your loved one do?  Who will speak to the attending physician at the hospital on your or your loved one’s behalf?   

          If you find that you are unable to come up with an answer, don’t panic.  You or your loved one can create key “pieces of the puzzle” for surviving a medical emergency, which can be utilized by medical professionals. 

Let’s take a look at two key “pieces of the puzzle” for surviving a medical emergency – a “Medications Chart” and a “Request For Medical Care Memorandum” – all of which are key “pieces of the puzzle” that can be utilized by medical professionals to save your life or that of a loved one: 

“Medications Chart” 

           Take a moment to survey your or your loved one’s medicine cabinet and read very carefully the labels on the medications that your or your loved one’s primary physician has prescribed.  The labels on the medications will identify the name of the medication, the dosage or amount of the medication that must be taken and the number of times or frequency the medication must be taken.   You or your loved one now stand ready to prepare a “Medications Chart”.  A sample of a Medications Chart” is provided below: 

                                       MEDICATIONS CHART


Patient Name:  John Doe, 123 Main Street, Anywhere, PA 12343  Telephone:  215-123-4567 

Emergency Contact:  Sally Doe-Jones, 111 River Street, Anywhere, PA 12342 Telephone:  215-123-4668 Relationship To Patient:  Sister

Primary Physician:  James King, M.D., 2 Front Street, Anywhere, PA  12302 Telephone:  215-201-1111 Facsimile:  215-201-1112 Pager:  215-201-0911 

MEDICATION

DOSAGE

FREQUENCY

Covera HS

240 mg

Two tablets at bedtime

Prilosec

40 mg

One tablet per day

Amaryl

4 mg.

One tablet in morning

Altace

5 mg

One tablet in morning

Prandin

2 mg

One tablet three times per day

Now that we have created a “Medications Chart”, what do we do with it?  Well, we will need to make multiple copies of it.   One copy should be placed on the door of your or your loved one’s refrigerator or in another strategic location in your or your loved one’s home.  Spouses and family members should be made aware of the location of the “Medications Chart”.  A second copy of the “Medications Chart” should be placed in your or your loved one’s wallet.  If you or your loved one is stricken with a medical emergency and unable to speak, medical rescue personnel and/or the police will try to identify you by attempting to locate items that can provide them with your identity.  The logical and first place to look for items that can identify an individual is that individual’s wallet.  If you or a loved one cannot speak to the police or medical rescue personnel who arrive on the scene, if you have placed a copy of the “Medications Chart” in your wallet, the police and/or medical rescue personnel will know who you are, who to contact about your condition, the medications that you are taking and how to get in touch with your primary physician.  A third copy of the “Medications Chart” should be given to the individual or individuals that you or loved one designates as an “emergency contact.”   

If and when your or your loved one’s primary physician changes your or your loved one’s medications or increases or decreases the dosage or frequency with which you or your loved one should take any of your medications, you should and must update your “Medications Chart.”  Make sure that the updated version of your or your loved one’s “Medications Chart” is in your or your loved one’s wallet, in the possession of your or your loved one’s “emergency contact” and is posted on the refrigerator door or is placed in a strategic location in your or your loved one’s residence.   And spouses and family members should be made aware of the fact that a new “Medications Chart” has been created. 

“Request for Medical Care Memorandum” 

Now, you’re probably wondering aloud:  “I have prepared a ‘Medications Chart’. So, why do I need a ‘Request for Medical Care Memorandum’?  Is it really necessary?” 

The answer is “Yes!” 

If you or your loved one has a chronic illness, which will eventually require hospitalization, you must create a second key “piece of the puzzle” for surviving a medical emergency – a “Request for Medical Care Memorandum”.  In the event that you or a loved one has a chronic illness which necessitates transportation to a hospital for treatment of a medical emergency and you or a loved one cannot articulate necessary and pertinent background information concerning the chronic illness in question, a “Request for Medical Care Memorandum” will do the talking for you or your loved one.   The “Request for Medical Care Memorandum” should articulate (a) the reasons for the request for medical treatment; (b) medical treatment of chronic illness by the current primary physician; (c) your or your loved one’s medical history; and (d) the list of medications prescribed by your or your loved one’s primary physician along with a list of dietary supplements, if any, that are being taking or have been taken by you or your loved one.   You or your loved one should keep a copy of the “Request for Medical Care Memorandum” in a strategic location.  A copy of the “Request for Medical Care Memorandum” should also be given to the “emergency contact” whom you or your loved one designates. 

So, what does a “Request for Medical Care Memorandum” look like?  Check out the following sample: 

ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE AND THE AFRICAN AMERICAN COMMUNITY

ByDiane A. Sears

Alzheimer’s Disease.  It is a devastatingly debilitating illness.  It robs its victims of their dignity their memory their ability to effectively communicate . . . and their use of motor skills. 

So, what does Alzheimer’s Disease have to do with the African American community? 

An ever-increasing number of African Americans are being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease.   According to the American Alzheimer’s Association and the Alzheimer Foundation of America, the incidence of the disease in African Americans is estimated to be anywhere from 14% to 100% higher than in Caucasians.  It is estimated that the number of African-Americans 65 years of age and older will be approximately 6.9 million by Calendar Year 2030.  The number of African Americans 85 years of age is expected to reach 638,000 in Calendar Year 2030 and approximately 1.6 million by Calendar Year 2050.  Since it is believed that age is a key risk factor for the disease, these figures are a definite cause for concern.  If these figures are accurate, it means that a family member, a friend or even Y-O-U may be at risk.  

         Now, let’s talk about Alzheimer’s disease.

WHAT IS ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE?

          Alzheimer’s Disease is believed to have originated in 1906 when Dr. Alois Alzheimer, a German doctor, explored with colleagues at a medical meeting the case of a 51-year old woman who suffered from what was portrayed as a “rare brain disorder.”  Alzheimer’s Disease is described as a “progressive, degenerative disorder” which attacks the nerve cells of the brain – or the brain’s neurons.  This “attack” on the nerve cells of the brain results in memory loss, loss of thinking and speaking skills and behavioral changes.  It is believed that the neurons – or nerve cells which produce a brain chemical or neurotransmitter known as acetylcholine breaks connections with other nerve cells and eventually dies.  Acetylcholine is believed to be the substance released by stimulation of the vagus nerve which alters heart muscle contractions.  This may also explain why it is believed that vascular disease may be a powerful factor in determining why African Americans have such a high incidence rate of Alzheimer’s Disease.  Data exists which indicates that persons with a history of either high blood pressure or high cholesterol levels are deemed to be twice as likely to contract Alzheimer’s Disease and that individuals who possess both risk factors are four times as likely to become demented. Alzheimer's disease causes the destruction of nerve cells in the hippocampus (the hippocamus is located in the region of the brain responsible for learning and memory) which gives rises to the decline of language skills and judgment when neurons die in the cerebral cortex.  It should also be noted that the hippocamus is negatively impacted by depression due to the fact that memory loss often occurs during depression and the region of the brain in which the hippocampus is located does not seem to recover after the depression is cured. 

IS ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE PREVENTABLE?

         The “jury is still out” on whether Alzheimer’s Disease is preventable.  However, there are a number of things that you can do to slow down the progress of the disease and its symptoms.  A few suggestions appear below:

Exercise                   

Regular exercise which can take the form of 30 minutes of brisk walking.  It is believed that exercise keeps the blood flowing to the brain and enhances the growth of new brain cells.  Other forms of exercise include bowling and dancing.

Diet

     A diet low in cholesterol, saturated fat, sugar and salt and a diet high in fiber such as oats, beans, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains and one that consists of fruits and vegetables that are anti-oxidants and which contain Vitamin E such as blueberries, cranberries, grapes, fish, red apples, papaya, green leafy vegetables, onions, legumes, nuts, seeds and whole grains as well as foods rich in beta-carotene such as dark orange, red, and dark green fruits and vegetables, for example, can help to slow down the progress of Alzheimer’s disease and possibly act as a deterrent to developing symptoms of the disease.  You should also limit your drinking of alcoholic beverages to one or two drinks per day. 

Weight

           It is recommended that you lose weight if you are overweight to avoid and/or control diabetes, high blood pressure and hypertension.

Stress

         Eliminate the stress in your life.  Find ways to relax.  Relaxation can take the form of physical exercise or relaxation exercises such as yoga, meditation, prayer or self-hypnosis.   

Brain Injury

       Trauma to the brain can cause Alzheimer’s Disease.  It is recommended that you do not “jar your brain” and that you prevent your brain from being “jarred” or injured by wearing a helmet when riding a bicycle or skiing; wearing seatbelts when riding in or driving a car; and by “accident-proofing’ your home so that it is free of obstructions and slippery places that could cause an accidental fall.

Stimulating Your Brain Through Mental Exercises

      It is believed that stimulating your brain will increase the number of brain cells and connections between the brain cells as well as strengthen your current number of brain cells and connections.  Mental exercises can consist of playing or learning to play a musical instrument; learning a foreign language; starting a new hobby; writing; reading intellectually challenging material; doing crossword puzzles; playing board games and bridge; or learning a new dance!

WHERE TO LOOK FOR HELP

          If you’d like to learn more about Alzheimer’s Disease, you might want to contact:

CANADA:  Alzheimer Society of Canada, 20 Eglinton Avenue, W., Suite 1200, Toronto, Ontario M4R 1K8 CANADA.  Telephone:  1 416 488 8772.  Helpline:  1-800-616-8816.  Facsimile:  1 416 488 3778.  Website Address:  www.alzheimer.ca.  E-MAIL Address:  info@alzheimer.ca.

JAPAN: Alzheimer’s Association Japan, c/o Kyoto Social Welfare Hall, Horikawa-Marutamachi, Kamgiyo-Ku, Kyoto, Japan.  Telephone:  011 81 75 811 8195.  Facsimile:  011 81 75 811 8188.  Website Address:  www.alzheimer.or.jp.  E-Mail Address:  office@alzheimer.org.jp.

LUXEMBOURG:  Alzheimer Europe, 145 rte de Thionville, L-2611, Luxembourg.  Website address:  www.alzheimer-europe.org.

NIGERIA: Alzheimer’s Disease Association of Nigeria, c/o Dept. of Psychiatry, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Nnewi, Anambra State, Nigeria.  Telephone:  011 234 46 463663.  Facsimile:  011 234 46 462496.  E-MAIL Address:  tifine@infoweb.abs.net.

TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO:  Alzheimer’s Association Of Trinidad And Tobago, c/o Soroptimist International Port Of Spain, 15 Nepaul Street, St. James, Port of Spain, Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.  Telephone:  1 868 622 6134.  Facsimile:  1 868 627 6731.  E-Mail Address:  norinniss@wow.net.

UNITED KINGDOM:  Alzheimer’s Society, Gordon House, 10 Greencoast Place, London SW1P 1PH, United Kingdom.  Telephone:  011-44-20 7306 0606.  Website address:  www.alzheimers.org.uk.  E-Mail Address:  enquiries@alzheimers.org.uk.

UNITED STATES:  Alzheimer’s Association – 225 N. Michigan Avenue, 10th floor, Chicago, IL  60601.  Telephone:  1-800-272-3900. Website address:  www.alz.org. E-MAIL:  info@alz.org.

Dr. Nina Paroo – Natural Healthcare Northwest, 509 Olive Way, Suite 1315, Seattle, WA   98101. Telephone:  206-382-9977.  Facsimile:  206-382-9933.  Dr. Paroo is a naturopathic physician who treats patients with Alzheimer’s Disease.

VENEZUELA:  Alzheimer Iberoamerica, Calle El Limon, Qta Mi Muñe, El Cafetal, Caracas, Venezuela.  Telephone:  011 58 212 9859183.  Facsimile:  011 58 212 4146129.  Website address: aib.alzheimer-online.org.

ZIMBABWE:  Zimbabwe Alzheimer’s And Related Disorders Association.  P.O. Box CH 336, Chisipite, Harare, Zimbabwe.  Telephone:  011 263 4 703 423; 011 263 4 703 427.  Facsimile:  011 263 4 704 487.  E-Mail Address:  coxsu@renniestravel.co.zw.

Diane A. Sears is the author of “Upbeat . . . Downbeat TM” a column specifically created for Black Men In America.com; the author of a Fatherhood Book – In Search Of Fatherhood® -- Transcending Boundaries; the Managing Editor of In Search Of Fatherhood® -- a quarterly international male parenting journal (www.bsi-international.com) and a member of Akamai University’s University Council for Fatherhood and Men’s Studies located in Hilo, Hawaii.

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NATUROPATHIC CARDIOLOGY:  AN OPTION FOR AFRICAN AMERICANS WITH CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH ISSUES

ByDiane A. Sears

In a publication entitled Heart Facts 2005:  African Americans,” the American Heart Association reported that cardiovascular disease is the primary cause of death for 36.4% of the estimated 290,000 African Americans who die each year.  The publication also reported that at least 4 out of every 10 African American adults have some form of cardiovascular disease – high blood pressure, stroke, congestive heart failure or hardening of the arteries.  And according to a John Hopkins School of Medicine study released in March 2005, more than 40% of African Americans have high blood pressure.  The study also disclosed that 7.4% of African American men and 7.5% of African American women are affected by some type of heart disease and that the rate of premature deaths from heart disease for African Americans is 31.5% while the rate of premature deaths from heart disease among Caucasians is 14.7%.

          The statistics on the state of cardiovascular health for African Americans are dauntingly astounding and sobering.  If you are an African American with cardiovascular health issues, before you throw a pity party for yourself—think about your options!  Yes, you do have options!

One option is naturopathic cardiology.

Decker Weiss

 I recently had an opportunity to chat with two phenomenal gentlemen:  Decker Weiss, N.M.D., F.A., S.A. -- a naturopathic cardiologist and Mr. Robert Bagley – a sixty-four year old African American successful businessman who “blazed trails” during his tenure in Corporate America.   In his own unique way, Dr. Weiss has also blazed trails.  He is the first naturopathic physician to complete a residency program in the Columbia Hospital System, the Arizona Heart Hospital and the prestigious Arizona Heart Institute. He is also the first naturopathic physician to be on staff at a conventional hospital, the Arizona Heart Hospital, where he has served for seven years and is the first naturopathic physician to be chosen as a Fellow of the American Society of Angiology. 

So, what is the connection between Weiss and Bagley?  Dr. Weiss is Mr. Bagley’s cardiologist.  Weiss utilized his naturopathic medical training to successfully control Bagley’s blood pressure level which had been as high as 235/90 and reduce the size of his enlarged heart.  In the process Weiss discovered that Bagley had a blown heart valve – a fact that Bagley was unaware of until he became Weiss’ patient.  Their relationship as doctor and patient has blossomed into a great friendship. 

Why did Weiss become a naturopathic cardiologist?

“I was first motivated to become a naturopathic cardiologist because I felt that there was more to medicine than writing medications.  Writing medications bored me.  And I felt that it was not a good model.  I wanted to go into cardiology and the Arizona Heart Institute gave me that opportunity.  The idea of someone having all of the different modalities of natural medicine and using these modalities to restore functions to the body was exciting to me.  I needed to be in that type of setting.  I am actually the first to be recognized with the title Naturopathic Cardiologist.  This means that I am credentialed as a physician through the State of Arizona and I am recognized as a cardiologist by the Arizona Heart Hospital.  I am also the first naturopathic physician to have hospital privileges at a conventional hospital – the Arizona Heart Hospital – where I have been on staff for seven years,” explained Dr. Weiss.

I asked Dr. Weiss to talk about what he feels is the best thing about being a physician and the work that he does.

“Well, in any job – especially if we are lucky enough to get the job we really want – there is stuff we do that we don’t want to do.  What makes this job fun and greatly rewarding is the fact that the patients are great, but the recovery is fun.  Then there’s Robert coming by my office and having an hour conversation and we’re not talking about medicine.  We’re just two people – friends – having a regular conversation.  I think that there’s a problem with the medical model.  It doesn’t have to be results-oriented, but therapeutic-based,” Weiss responded.

How does naturopathic cardiology differ from conventional cardiology in the treatment of cardiovascular disease?

According to Dr. Weiss, a naturopathic approach to cardiology involves first treating a patient with natural medicines and then conventional medicine or surgery if it is needed:  “My goal is to rid the body of disease and get patients off medication that can have adverse side effects, for example, impotence.  A traditional approach means starting a patient on medication then monitoring the effects of that medication.”

So, how did Dr. Weiss and Mr. Bagley find out about one another?  The short answer is that Mr. Bagley’s son gets the credit for taking action that ultimately brought Weiss and Bagley together.

Mr. Bagley recalls that he could barely walk up a flight of stairs and could only walk a few feet before having to stop and rest.  His prior physicians had prescribed a variety of medications for the high blood pressure but progress seemed slow.  Bagley felt drained by the medication but continued on with his daily routine – totally unaware that he had a blown heart valve.   His son’s insistence that he visit the Southwest Naturopathic College resulted in Bagley being referred to Dr. Weiss by the College’s President, Dr. Robert Shaw.

I wanted to know how Mr. Bagley reacted to his son’s proposal that he consider nontraditional medicine as a means of controlling his blood pressure and addressing his cardiovascular health issues.  Bagley says he didn’t balk at the idea. 

“My son came to me and took me to the Southwest Naturopathic College.  I didn’t know where he was taking me – I just went.   I couldn’t figure out why I couldn’t function.  I couldn’t understand my physical condition,” Mr. Bagley remarked. 

“You can’t talk about Robert and cardiology without talking about race,” says Dr. Weiss.   

Weiss points to the differences in the physiology of African Americans and the physiology of non-African Americans as an indication that one cannot have a discussion about cardiovascular health issues without also having a conversation about race.  And the statistics compiled by the American Heart Association and the John Hopkins School of Medicine silently echoes Weiss’ statement.   

“You see Robert and he doesn’t look his age.  Robert traveled the world.  He was a successful businessman.  He worked in Corporate America for a company during a time in which there were very few African Americans there.  He was athletic and he had great health insurance.   But his blood pressure had been high.  Robert had high blood pressure that went uncontrolled for a very long time.  We got the numbers down and the got fluid off.  We used natural medicine.  Robert’s valve damage will never go away, but his heart is now a normal size,” Weiss stated. 

How was Dr. Weiss able to lower Mr. Bagley’s blood pressure and reduce the size of his heart?  Weiss’ goal was to reduce the size of Bagley’s heart and restore his stamina – a goal he achieved by prescribing coleus and CoQ10 for Bagley’s condition.  

“We were able to get my high blood pressure down in one week.  Many people are surprised to find out how old I am.  My energy is up, stairs no longer scare me, and my blood pressure is closer to normal levels,” remarked Mr. Bagley who now has a blood pressure level of about 130/90 to 140/90. 

Weiss says that natural medicines for blood pressure works as well as drugs.  

“There are natural medicines available,” says Weiss, who cites BP ManagerTM as an example.  “It is designed so people won’t have to start with medicine.  It doesn’t have the side effects,” notes Weiss.   

And what is BP ManagerTM?  

BP ManagerTM is described by its manufacturer, Enzymatic Therapy, as a “unique herbal blend” which includes stevia leaf extract, hawthorne extract, olive leaf extract, dandelion extract and lycopene.  This herbal blend is described as being conducive to supporting healthy blood pressure levels, supporting the heart and balancing sodium and fluid levels, assisting in the reduction of fluid retention and providing support to arteries and circulation.

Is naturopathic medicine expensive?

“Yes and no,” says Dr. Weiss.  “It is extremely inexpensive when compared with regular medicine.  But there is no medical coverage for it, so in that sense, it is expensive.”

          Bagley and Weiss strongly believe that we should become proactive about our health by instituting lifestyle changes and being selective when choosing a physician. 

          “If you want to try and live as much as you can, you are going to have to do something else.  You have to be proactive.  And if you do, you have to understand that there is going to be less insurance.  It’s insurance that got us into this mess.  Find doctors with similar opinions and values and belief systems as you do.  Robert made the choices that he made because he didn’t want to medicate himself into oblivion,” Weiss observed. 

          So, how can Americans heighten awareness about naturopathic medicine and particularly naturopathic cardiology? 

          “Through reading, thinking and word of mouth,” Bagley responds emphatically.

“PUBLIC RELATIONS BOOT CAMPS”: AN OUNCE OF PREVENTION 

Diane A. Sears

            The employees in your company know that you expect them to produce high quality work products, meet deadlines, and exercise a high degree of professionalism when dealing with each other and your clients.  They know what your expectations are because you have told them.  But do your employees have a clear idea about how they should handle an inquiry from the media?  Will they know what questions to ask?  Do they know that they cannot make statements to the media unless they have been specifically designated to do so by a duly authorized officer of your company?  If the answer to any one or all of these questions is “No,” you may be setting yourself up for “missed” and/or “mishandled” media opportunities which can take the form of inquiries from the media “falling through the cracks” and not getting to the right person – immediately or someone saying more than they are supposed to the media. “Missed” and “mishandled” media opportunities in the form of employees giving out too much information to the media or not expeditiously getting a media inquiry to the right person in your company could not only rob your company of its chance to enhance its visual identity, expand its client base and grab the attention of an untapped target market but could, in the long run, negatively affect profitability.  The development of a “public relations boot camp” is your company’s “ounce of prevention” against “missed” and “mishandled” media opportunities. 

            Okay, so your firm has a Marketing Department composed of “media savvy” individuals who know what to do and what to say or a group of marketing consultants who are “off site.”  That’s great!  But what happens if the media discovers the direct telephone number of one of your company’s high-ranking officers or that of an employee and bypasses your Marketing Department or the group of off-site marketing consultants you have hired to “run interference” and contacts one of your employees or a high-ranking officer directly?  How will they respond?  The creation of a “public relations boot camp” will ensure that “what ifs” don’t’ become your company’s worst nightmare.     

Does this sound a little far-fetched?  Well, picture the following hypothetical scenario. 

You are a partner in an international law firm that you created and have just returned to the office after spending ten grueling hours successfully negotiating a multi-billion dollar, “headline-grabbing” merger deal between an American multinational corporation and a multinational corporation domiciled in Brussels, Belgium.  Due to the transaction’s precedent-setting complexities, the eyes of the international business community and the media are on your client and your law firm.  Your client, your law firm’s Management Committee, Client Development Committee and your firm’s off-site marketing consultants have given you the “green light” to respond to media inquiries about the deal that you have helped to finalize – a deal which, when publicized, will put you, your law firm and your client in the spotlight. You glance at your watch.  It’s eight o’clock in the evening as you sift through a pile of messages lying on your desk.  You discover that you were contacted earlier in the day directly by the Executive Producer at France Deux (a French business news television program); the Managing Editor at The American Lawyer; a senior producer at CNN’s Moneyline; a Senior Editor at The Financial Times of London; and a reporter from The Wall Street Journal.  None of these folks are in their offices at this hour and you can only hope that when you return their calls during the early morning hours of the next business day that they will not regard what you have to say as “old news.”  Although your Assistant dutifully recorded the messages and left them for you, he or she did not – through no fault of his or her own -- perceive the implicit urgency of these messages.  Thus, he or she did not try to reach you by telephone, e-mail or fax to immediately inform you of the media inquiries.   

So, could a “public relations boot camp” have prevented a scenario such as the one described above from happening?  

 Yes! 

How?   

Had a “public relations marketing boot camp” been conducted at the hypothetical attorney’s law firm, the hypothetical lawyer would have been immediately informed by his Assistant that the media needed to speak with him. As a result, the hypothetical attorney could and would have responded immediately to the media inquiries.   

So, what are some of the guidelines that a “public relations boot camp” should impart to a company’s employees?

Here are a few: 

-            Employees, other than specifically designated members of a company’s senior

management group or a specifically designated member of a company’s

Marketing Department, should be prohibited from expressing opinions or making

statements of any kind to the media.   

-           Media inquiries should be forwarded on an “as-soon-as-possible” basis to the individual to whom the media wishes to speak with – whether the individual in question is “on site” or out of the office.  If the individual in question is out of the office, since most individuals travel with cell phones, palm pilots and/or lap top computers, he or she should be notified of the media inquiries through cell phones and e-mails.  The message concerning the media inquiry should also be placed in the individual’s office telephone voice mailbox and should be manually recorded on a message slip. Additionally, the company’s Marketing Department or off-site marketing consultants should also be made aware of the media inquiry and advised as to (a) the steps that have been taken to reach the individual in question; and (b) whether the individual in question has, in fact, received the message.  This will prevent media inquiries from “falling through the cracks”.   It will also create a situation where everyone is “on the same page”. 

-            Inquiries from the media should be treated with the same level of urgency, courtesy and professionalism that a company’s clients enjoy. 

-         When speaking with news producers, reporters and editors, every attempt should be made to ascertain the news producers’/ reporters’/editors’ deadline (i.e.: the date and time at which will they need to receive the information that they requested).  One can simply ask, “What is your deadline?”  Normally, news producers, editors, and reporters will advise you of their deadlines.  But when this does not happen, the question needs to be asked.  In most cases, news producers/reporters/editors after stating why they want to speak to an individual and after identifying the subject matter about which they wish to speak to the individual, will also ask to have the individual’s bio and/or photo sent to them.  Here again, if this does not happen, the question needs to be asked, along with asking for a street/mailing address, fax number and an e-mail address for the purpose of distributing the individual’s bio and/or photo to the editor/reporter/news producer.  This information should also be included in the message that is forwarded to the individual and to the company’s Marketing Department or off-site marketing consultants. 

-           As soon as a company becomes aware of the fact that a current or future event or situation may draw media attention, the company should alert its employees in writing as to how media inquiries should be handled and what the employees can and cannot say to the media.

     

Diane A. Sears has provided media relations services to authors, musicians and a number of non-profit organizations Sears is the author of In Search Of Fatherhood® -- Transcending Boundaries; the Managing Editor of a quarterly international male parenting journal – In Search Of Fatherhood® Forum For and About the Fathers of the World which is exclusively distributed and published by BSI International, Inc.; and a member of the University Council for Akamai University’s Fatherhood and Men’s Studies Program in Hilo, Hawaii.

D.A. Sears is a published free-lance journalist, a Federal Communications Commission licensee, a Notary Public, and a former radio broadcast journalist.  Sears is a former media consultant for authors and independent publishing companies and their clients and has provided marketing/public relations services to emerging businesses and senior management of Philadelphia-based non-profit organizations.

 

2005:  LET’S GET THE PARTY STARTED!

 By:  D.A. Sears 

For many of us, calendar year 2004 was one heck of a roller coaster ride.  It was a year of triumphs, tragedies, laughter, tears, joy and sorrow.  It was a year in which our patience was stretched to the limit as we went about the business of moving our families forward and empowering our communities. Yet, somehow, we held on to our faith . . . our integrity . . . and our sanity. 

But that was then.  And this is now.   

It’s a New Year!  It’s 2005! 

 And in the words of a friend and colleague, National Football League All Pro corner back Tim McKyer:  “In 2005, let’s get the party started!” 

          But the party that we are talking about is not about “rocking it until the wheels fall off.”   

So, what is it about? 

It is about a celebration.  A celebration of who you are – your uniqueness.  And you are unique.  There is no one else exactly like you in the universe.   It is about a celebration of the elders – those folks who prayed for you, raised you, chastised you, shared their experiences and wisdom with you, sacrificed for you, marched for you, invested their time and energy in you, loved you, cried for you, blazed trails for you, and died for you. 

It is about inspiration and affirmation.  Inspire and affirm yourself – know that you have all the tools that you will ever need to transform your dreams into a reality.  You have the talent.  You have the skills.  You have the intellect.  Use them.  Get the job done.  And then go out into the world and inspire and affirm others.   Inspiring and affirming others can be as simple as acknowledging their presence with a warm smile.  Or a “Good Morning.” A word of encouragement.  A suggestion.  The sharing of information.  A genuine act of kindness. 

It is about learning and knowing who you are.  Who are you?  What are your strengths?  What are your weaknesses?  What are your talents?  What is your destiny? And when you have answered these questions and you have succeeded in placing your feet on solid ground, go out and help others to answer the same questions.  Help them put their feet on solid ground.   

It is about creating opportunities . . . instilling hope . . . restoring faith . . . and making the impossible possible! 

So what do you think?  If you would like to respond to this article click here and sign our Guestbook to leave a public or private comment. 

 

WHAT’S A COLONOSCOPY?

By:  Diane A. Sears

Some folks say that I am an “eternal optimist” . . . that my cup is always “half full.”   Well, if I am any thing, I am a firm believer in the fact that there are always options and that information is the key to resolving any problem and unlocking any closed door.  It was one of the many valuable life lessons I learned as a child from family members.  And it was a life lesson reinforced during adulthood by my late mentor who observed:  “Life is about options.  Life is also about information.  Having enough information and the right information will lead you to discovering what your options are and to making better decisions.”

So, what does all this talk about “eternal optimism,” ” a cup being half full,” and life lessons about options and information have to do with a colonoscopy?  Hold on.  I’m getting to that.

In August of this year, I was having my daily “after-dinner chat” over the telephone with a feisty and hip seventy-something member of my immediate family when I was asked out of the clear blue:  “What’s a colonoscopy?”

My first response was:  “Why?  What’s going on?”

Upon learning that the procedure had been recommended by her primary physician, my second response was:  “What kind of colonoscopy are you getting?  You can get a virtual colonoscopy which I understand is less painful and intrusive, but it’s a new procedure and I only learned about in December of 2003.  It may not be covered by your medical insurance.  I’ll do some research and send you information about both procedures.”

And yes, for those of you who are wondering, I really do conduct research on medical issues for my family and share with them the information that I have collected.  I also provide family members with an extra copy of the information that I have discovered so that they can take the extra copy of the information to their physician for a discussion on how the physician can utilize the information in resolving my family member’s health issue.

    So, I began searching for and scanning information on the Internet about colonoscopies – the digital rectal colonoscopy and the virtual colonoscopy.   One week after inquiring about a colonoscopy, the relative in question received a series of documents about both procedures in the mail which she not only read, but which she shared with her primary physician and the physician who was selected to perform the colonoscopy.   Both physicians read the material presented to them and after reading the information about virtual colonoscopies, advised her:   “This is a new procedure which is not available at the medical facility where your procedure will be performed.”

I am happy to report that all is well – the relative in question underwent the procedure and has been given a “clean bill of health.”

Having said that, let’s talk about colonoscopies.

So, what is a colonoscopy?

The Cancer Information Network has this to say about the digital rectal colonoscopy:

“A colonoscopy is the procedure of evaluating the lining of the colon to check for medical problems such as bleeding or presence of cancer. It is the method of choice for screening patients at high risk for colon cancer.  It utilizes a colonoscope, a long flexible tubular instrument which is inserted into the rectum. The other end has video visualization capability to enable the physician to inspect the lining of the colon directly. Other instruments, such as biopsy forceps can be passed through the colonoscope to perform certain surgical procedures.  A colonoscopy can be performed in a hospital or an ambulatory surgical center. The patient is given instructions before the colonoscopy.  It is very important to follow the instructions carefully.”

Is there any preparation required prior to the colonoscopy?

Yes.

The Cancer Information Network offers the following advice:

“The colon must be completely clean for a successful test.  In general, do not eat or drink anything for at least eight hours before the colonoscopy.  A clear liquid diet is required the day before the exam. A liquid bowel stimulant is taken a day before the procedure to clean out the colon.  Let the physician know about any medication or supplements you are taking.  Also remind the doctor of any medication allergies you may have.”

Let’s talk about the procedure.  What happens?  How is it performed?

The Cancer Information Network describes the procedure as being “well tolerated” and “painless” and further states:

“The procedure is usually done under sedation. General anesthesia (putting a patient to sleep) is usually not required. Intravenous medications are given to help you relax. The physician will generally start with a digital rectal examination. The colonoscope is then inserted into the anus and slowly advanced into the large intestine. There might be a feeling of bloating, cramping, or pressure during the advancing of the scope.  As the scope is slowly advanced, inspection of the lining of the colon is done by the physician.  If there is abnormality in the lining, the doctor may take a biopsy from the abnormal area.  If colon polyps are found, they could be removed during the procedure. Specimens are then sent to the Pathology Department for evaluation.  The procedure usually takes 30 to 60 minutes.

And what happens after the procedure?

According to The Cancer Information Network, “ . .. the patient will be monitored in the recovery room until he or she is stable.  Occasionally, the patient may have bloating or cramping. These minor symptoms generally disappear spontaneously in a day or two.  However, the doctor should be informed immediately if there is severe abdominal pain or bleeding through the rectum.  It takes about two to three days for the Pathologist to evaluate the specimens taken during the procedure.  It is recommended that the patient should rest for the remainder of the day.  The patient should not drive within twenty-four hours.  It is also recommended that the patient not make legal decisions until he or she is completely awake and oriented.”

Let’s talk about the complications resulting from a colonoscopy.

The Cancer Information Network says that a colonoscopy is a safe procedure and that severe complications are rare.  However, it cites perforation of the bowel as one possible complication that may require surgical repair.   If a biopsy is taken or a polyp removed during the colonoscopy, the patent may experience bleeding at the area in which the procedure has been conducted.  According to the Cancer Information Network, “ . . . the bleeding is generally minor and stops spontaneously.”

Now let’s talk about a virtual colonoscopy.  What is it? 

The New York University School of Medicine’s Department of Radiology Virtual Colonoscopy has the following to say about a virtual colonoscopy:

“Currently, most centers that perform virtual colonoscopy use computed tomography or “CT” – a large, square machine with a hole in the center which has a table on which the patient lies still and the table can be moved up or down and can be slid in and out from the center of the hole of the machine.  Inside the machine, an x-ray tube that rotates on a frame housing the x-ray tube, moves around the patient’s body and produces images or takes pictures as it makes clicking and whirring noises when the table moves.  With CT, a three-dimensional picture of part of the body is put together from a number of cross-sectional x-ray images. In Europe and several centers in the United States, some investigators are using magnetic resonance imaging (“MRI”) for virtual colonoscopy. MRI uses radio waves to induce nuclear magnetic resonance in the atoms of the body and produces computerized images of the inside of the body.  A potential advantage of MRI is that it doesn't expose the patient to ionizing radiation, as CT does. However, the amount of radiation used in CT for virtual colonoscopy can be substantially lower than the amount used for routine abdominal and pelvic CT.

So, why should a virtual colonoscopy be considered as an option?

The New York University School of Medicine’s Department of Radiology Virtual Colonoscopy points to its belief that “ . . . so far, virtual colonoscopy has shown promise in detecting 75 to 100 percent of polyps and cancers of the colon and rectum that are 10 mm in diameter or wider” as a factor to consider when deciding upon the virtual colonoscopy as a procedure to utilize in detecting colon cancer.  It also cites a study “that showed that among potential patients considering colon cancer screening, 60.2 percent favored the idea of virtual colonoscopy, 25.7 percent preferred the idea of conventional colonoscopy, and 14.1 percent had no preference.  In addition to its use as a screening test, there are numerous other potential clinical uses for virtual colonoscopy. These include evaluating the colon after an incomplete traditional colonoscopy examination or near an obstructing cancer, in elderly patients, in patients with another serious illness, and in patients who are unable to tolerate sedation.  When performing virtual colonoscopy examinations, there is an opportunity to evaluate more than just the colon.  Abnormalities outside the colon may also be detected.  Radiologists interpreting virtual colonoscopy examinations could include a routine check for abnormalities outside the colon that may be revealed on the images.” 

         Want to know more?  Talk to your primary physician about your options.  Or contact the following organizations:

 

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American Cancer Society

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1599 Clifton Road, NE

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Atlanta, GA  30345

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Telephone:  404-320-3333; 1-800-227-2345

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Website address: www.cancer.org

Cancer Network

c/o CMP Healthcare Media
Oncology Publishing Group
600 Community Drive
Manhasset, NY 11030
Telephone: (516) 562-5000
Fax: (516) 562-5141

Website address:  www.cancernetworkcom
e-mail:
info@cancernetwork.com 

Cancer Information Network

Website address: www.cancerlinkusa.com 

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New York University Medical School

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Department of Radiology Virtual Colonoscopy

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550 First Avenue

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New York, NY   10016

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Telephone: 212-263-7200; 1-888-769-8333

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Web site Address:  www.med.nyu.edu

Upbeat . . . Downbeat TM” is a column created by Black Men In America. Com that is authored by Diane A. Sears, the Managing Editor of IN SEARCH OF FATHERHOOD® FORUM FOR AND ABOUT THE FATHERS OF THE WORLD – a quarterly male parenting journal published by BSI International, Inc., author of IN SEARCH OF FATHERHOOD® -- TRANSCENDING BOUNDARIES and member of the University Council of Akamai University’s (Hilo, Hawaii) Fatherhood and Men’s Studies Program.

 

 


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