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
·
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
By:
Diane 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.
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.
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.
--------------------------------------------
NATUROPATHIC
CARDIOLOGY: AN OPTION FOR AFRICAN AMERICANS WITH CARDIOVASCULAR
HEALTH ISSUES
By:
Diane 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:
“Upbeat
. . . DownbeatTM” 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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