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Woman Learns To Embrace Life With Relapsing Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

2019-05-29T07:01:00

(BPT) –

As a grandmother of two young boys, Pam Hill values the time she spends with her family more than anything. She helps care for her one-year-old grandson almost every day, and while she cherishes their time together, she also was nervous about how her relapsing multiple sclerosis (MS) may prevent her from participating in her grandson’s life as he gets older.

MS is a chronic and often unpredictable disease of the central nervous system that affects over 2.3 million people worldwide.1 When Pam was diagnosed with relapsing MS at the age of 48, she was unsure what to expect and was afraid that the symptoms of her disease would limit her ability to be fully present and participate in precious family moments.

“I was scared, terrified even, because I didn’t know anything about MS, and I wondered what this would mean for my family,” said Pam.

With the help of a personalized team of experts — including parenting blogger Mariah Moon and Dr. Ann Bass, a neurologist who specializes in MS — Pam learned that by making small changes, like planning ahead, communicating openly and seeking support through family, friends and her healthcare provider, she is able to say yes to being the best grandmother she can be.

Appreciating the small things

“When it comes to parenting (or grandparenting), it’s really the little things that matter. You don’t have to do something that requires a lot of effort, but creating small, meaningful traditions — like making breakfast or watching movies together — can help you bond,” said Mariah Moon.

Pam took Mariah’s advice, and now looks for fun and simple crafts or games that she and her grandchildren can do together. She also always makes resting part of her regular routine, something she recognizes is an important part of taking care of herself.2

Talking openly about MS

Throughout her journey with relapsing MS, Pam has also found that communicating regularly and openly with her doctor helps her to better navigate the challenges of her condition. “When I was first diagnosed, my neurologist and I discussed how I was feeling to develop a tailored care plan,” Pam said. Now that she’s in her new role as a grandmother, she recognizes the importance of continuing to discuss how she’s feeling with her doctor, so they can work together to make adjustments that work for her.

“Together we decided that Tecfidera® (dimethyl fumarate) was the right treatment for me,” Pam said.

Her medication, in addition to getting adequate sleep, taking time to rest during the day and staying hydrated, helps her to care for her condition.1,3 “Relapsing MS is a condition that looks different for everyone,” said Dr. Ann Bass. “That’s why it’s important to talk with your doctor about what you may be experiencing to find a care plan that fits your individual needs.”

Before starting TECFIDERA, Pam’s doctor explained the possible serious side effects, including allergic reactions, PML, decreases in white blood cell count, and liver problems, along with the common side effects of flushing and stomach problems. See more details below.

Looking Ahead

Pam also learned the value of building a support team — which includes her doctor, family and friends — who she can rely on for help when she needs it. She finds comfort in knowing that MS is a challenge she’ll never face alone, and she encourages others living with MS — or any chronic condition — to find forgiveness and be open about how they’re feeling. “I would sometimes hesitate to ask for help, because I didn’t want my MS to feel like a burden. I’ve come to realize that my loved ones want to support me, so it’s important for me to be honest and let them!”

By making small but meaningful changes to her everyday routine, like planning ahead and conserving her energy while also being honest with herself and others, Pam has embraced life as grandmother despite her relapsing MS. You can hear more about Pam and her journey at Tecfidera.com.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION AND INDICATION

Do not use Tecfidera® (dimethyl fumarate) if you have had an allergic reaction (such as welts, hives, swelling of the face, lips, mouth or tongue, or difficulty breathing) to TECFIDERA or any of its ingredients.

Before taking and while you take TECFIDERA, tell your healthcare provider about any low white blood cell counts or infections or any other medical conditions.

What are the possible side effects of TECFIDERA?

TECFIDERA may cause serious side effects including:

  • Allergic reactions
  • PML, which is a rare brain infection that usually leads to death or severe disability.
  • Decreases in your white blood cell count. Your healthcare provider should check your white blood cell count before you take TECFIDERA and from time to time during treatment
  • Liver problems. Your healthcare provider should do blood tests to check your liver function before you start taking TECFIDERA and during treatment if needed. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get any symptoms of a liver problem during treatment, including:
    • severe tiredness
    • loss of appetite
    • pain on the right side of your stomach
    • dark or brown (tea color) urine
    • yellowing of your skin or the white part of your eyes

The most common side effects of TECFIDERA include flushing and stomach problems. These can happen especially at the start of treatment and may decrease over time. Taking TECFIDERA with food may help reduce flushing. Call your healthcare provider if these symptoms bother you or do not go away. Ask your healthcare provider if taking aspirin before taking TECFIDERA may reduce flushing.

These are not all the possible side effects of TECFIDERA. Call your healthcare provider for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. For more information go to dailymed.nlm.nih.gov.

Tell your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, or breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if TECFIDERA will harm your unborn baby or if it passes into your breast milk. Also tell your healthcare provider if you are taking prescription or over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, or herbal supplements. If you take too much TECFIDERA, call your healthcare provider or go to the nearest hospital emergency room right away.

Please see full Prescribing Information and Patient Information.

This is not intended to replace discussions with your healthcare provider.

Indication

TECFIDERA is a prescription medicine used to treat people with relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis.

Pam Hill is a paid spokesperson for Biogen and has experience taking Tecfidera® (dimethyl fumarate). She may or may not be currently on TECFIDERA.

This article is sponsored by Biogen. © 2019 Biogen. All rights reserved. To access support services, patients can call 1-800-456-2255.

###

1 National Multiple Sclerosis Society. MS FAQs. Available at: https://www.nationalmssociety.org/What-is-MS/MS-FAQ-s#question-What-is-multiple-sclerosis. Accessed March 1, 2019.

2 Boerner, H., & Law, B. M. Healthy Living. Momentum: The Magazine of the National MS Society. Winter 07-08.

3 Cincotta, M., Engelhard, M., Stankey, M., & Goldman, M. (2016). Fatigue and fluid hydration status in multiple sclerosis: A hypothesis. Multiple Sclerosis Journal, 22. doi:10.1177/1352458516663854.


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Shopping for diamonds? 5 options, from meteor-made to man-made

2019-05-29T06:01:01

(BPT) – Diamonds are extolled in movies and songs for good reason — their romance, allure and durability make them the ideal symbol of love and fidelity. This wedding season — and year-round — diamonds are in demand from purists and romantics alike who want to indulge in the most coveted of all gemstones.

But did you know that there are many alternatives to mined diamonds that provide their wearers with gorgeous jewelry as well as a unique sense of style?

Here are some of the spectacular gemstones available on Jewelry Television (JTV), ranging from iconic jewelry “must haves” to notable options that may be new to you.

Mined Diamonds. The standard for engagement and wedding rings, but also heirloom quality fashion jewelry, is the traditional mined diamond, the most iconic of all gems. These gems formed deep below the Earth’s surface over millions of years, making them rare, unique and intrinsically highly valuable. The stunning variety of designs, cuts and settings available using traditional diamonds make them the ultimate complement to any wardrobe choice.

Lab-grown Diamonds. An increasingly popular gemstone is a lab-grown diamond. These are actual diamonds, with the same physical, chemical and optical properties as mined diamonds, but are produced in a laboratory. The complex, highly technical process of growing diamonds in a lab creates these treasured gemstones that are cut, faceted and polished in the same way as mined diamonds. Innovative lab-grown diamonds are a great choice for the progressive woman who has the confidence to show that she’s found a beautiful, authentic diamond at a great value.

Moissanite. Originally discovered in 1893 in a crater created by a meteorite, natural moissanite is composed of carbon and silicon, making it one of the hardest known minerals on earth, second only to diamonds. It is extremely resistant to scratching and chipping. Natural moissanite for jewelry is incredibly rare, but moissanite has now been synthesized in a laboratory, making it both more affordable and accessible. Moissanite Fire has a higher dispersion value than diamond, and JTV’s skilled cutters facet the crystals to maximize the brilliance and enhance the exceptional fire. It offers a brilliant, sophisticated appearance that’s perfect for both everyday wear and glamorous evening looks, with a wide selection of styles and price points available.

Strontium Titanate. This man-made diamond simulant, which is an oxide of strontium and titanium, also has a significantly higher dispersion value than diamonds. While it appears similar to a diamond, it has a different composition. Fabulite Strontium Titanate offers an incredible kaleidoscope of colorful fire and sparkle to make any wearer stand out from the crowd. It’s a true showstopper that complements a woman’s sparkling personality.

Cubic Zirconia. Possibly the best-known man-made diamond simulant, cubic zirconia is an affordable alternative for adding bling to your everyday wear or for a statement look. To ensure the highest level of craftsmanship and quality, look for a reputable brand such as Bella Luce. Cubic zirconia jewelry enables fun-loving women to be playful and creative with their style and experiment with different looks, due to the versatility and affordability of this popular gem.

To learn more about all of these gemstones, from mined or man-made diamonds to diamond simulants and much more, check out JTV’s broadcast network, with expert hosts to help educate and inform you on your decisions, or visit JTV.com.


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Summer must-haves to brighten your beauty routine

2019-05-28T09:33:00

(BPT) – With summer around the corner, everyone is seeking the best beauty inspiration to prepare for the warmer weather styles and sun-kissed looks. Whether you are planning for a staycation or jet-setting around the country, these easy and effective steps can make your face glow and look vibrant for the season.

Need some suggestions? Actress, model, beauty and fashion influencer Olivia Culpo shares her four go-to summer beauty products to keep her shining from the inside and out all summer long:

Tinted moisturizer

Summer days call for a more subtle, no-makeup-makeup look to show off your glowing skin. To maintain a dewy summer look, Culpo swears by skipping heavy coverage that comes from your typical foundation and opting for lightweight tinted moisturizers. That way, you’re guaranteed to have dewy moisturized skin with an evened complexion. Tinted moisturizers also come with SPF so you’re covered all day long.

Makeup remover wipes

When you’re on the go, there’s nothing better than turning to cleansing wipes in times of need. They’re quick, easy, affordable and get the job done. Culpo keeps them handy for hot summer days when she needs a quick touch-up.

Teeth whitening toothpaste

The secret behind Olivia’s dazzling white smile is Colgate Optic White High Impact Toothpaste. Formulated with a key ingredient — hydrogen peroxide — Colgate Optic White toothpaste penetrates below the tooth’s surface to deeply whiten. It’s a top summer essential, especially if you frequently drink teeth stain offenders like coffee, tea and red wine. “I don’t mess around with anything that doesn’t work. I look for products that are the most effective and I really see the results,” Culpo said.

Coconut oil lip balm

Paired with a beautiful, white smile, coconut oil lip balm gives you luscious lips with the perfect amount of shine. Coconut oil is ultra-hydrating, with a moisturizing power to nourish and smooth out your lips. Plus, the tropical coconut scent gives you the feeling that you’re on a beach getaway, so you can get vacation vibes wherever you are.


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Pledge to listen: How a free trip to Egypt changed lives, attitudes

2019-05-28T08:01:00

(BPT) – The familiar phrase “random acts of kindness” has its origins on a placemat in Sausalito in 1982, on which writer Ann Herbert wrote, “Practice random kindness and senseless acts of beauty.” The idea took on a life of its own, with stories of strangers buying groceries for others or feeding someone else’s parking meter. The idea is simple: Doing something selfless, with no other thought than to brighten someone’s day, creates a ripple effect. Kindness spreads, making the world a happier place.

But these days, many yearn for more. Divisiveness and distrust in the public discourse can leave people feeling isolated and angry. One man decided to do something about it, taking a big risk by reaching out to others in what might be called a random act of listening.

Canadian-Egyptian entrepreneur Tarek Mounib sought to build a bridge of mutual understanding and friendship with an ambitious project: He offered complete strangers he encountered across the U.S. an all-expenses-paid trip to Egypt, with the sole purpose of connecting with people who might distrust him as a Muslim, allowing them to see for themselves what Egypt is like and to meet ordinary Egyptians. Although his initial attempts to find Americans willing to take him up on his offer were met with suspicion and mistrust, eventually he was able to find people open to the journey.

Mounib captured the life-changing experience by producing a film, “Free Trip to Egypt,” directed by Ingrid Serban. The documentary, in theaters for a premiere event June 12, shows how a small, diverse group of Americans travel to Egypt for the first time. Hosted by Egyptian families, they see Cairo up close and personal — an experience that challenges many of their previously held beliefs and perceptions. The Egyptians’ preconceptions about Americans were equally tested.

What happens when a retired teacher and her husband are united with a young Egyptian revolutionary? Or when a Christian missionary and a born-again former Miss Kentucky are housed with an orthodox Muslim family where the mother wears a burqa? Or when a police officer faces off with a radical, left-leaning journalist?

“I had no idea what was going to happen,” recalls Mounib. “We encountered conflict, but we all came together and connected. People are really the same wherever you go.”

Throughout “Free Trip to Egypt,” Mounib stresses the importance of listening, especially to those you may disagree with, or you may think have nothing in common with you. He discusses a variety of topics with his guests as they travel, always maintaining a respectful openness to learn and try to understand. And the entire experience affects everyone on the trip profoundly.

With the release of “Free Trip to Egypt,” Mounib seeks to start a dialogue by launching a social impact movement and reaching people around the country who may be reluctant to hear other people’s points of view and to inspire everyone to listen to one another, by going online to take the #PledgeToListen.

Here are a few ways you can pledge to listen.

Practice active listening

Next time someone says something you disagree with, see if you can restate what they said accurately, without judgement or criticism. Start with, “What I hear you saying is …” and ask if you’re correct, to ensure you’ve really listened and understood them.

Listen to your neighbor

Is there someone in your neighborhood you seldom speak with, possibly because they seem different from you? Make the effort to get to know that person a little. Share something you’ve made or just stop by and say hello, reintroducing yourself. If they say something you don’t like, just listen. Avoid the temptation to jump in and argue.

Visit a community unlike your own

Find a community organization or house of worship with members who are different from you. Call and ask if visitors are welcome and check it out. Experience a new culture and food in an ethnic neighborhood restaurant. Be open to talking to people unlike yourself and again — just listen.

Host someone from another country

Perhaps your community has an organization for foreign exchange students or a cultural group that hosts visitors or refugees from around the world. See if you can host a dinner or gathering to welcome the person and ask them about their country and way of life.

The “Free Trip to Egypt” film premiere event takes place Wednesday, June 12, at approximately 500 theaters across the U.S. Immediately following the screenings, a 30-minute panel discussion led by celebrities, politicians and thought leaders — including President Trump’s former wife Marla Maples, Congresswoman and 2020 Democratic candidate for president Tulsi Gabbard and internationally recognized speaker/author Rabbi Rami Shapiro, among others — will be streamed into theaters to launch a conversation about how to listen and bring more kindness to the world, asking everyone to take the online #PledgeToListen and bring authentic conversations to the community.

As Mounib says in his Take the Pledge video, “I feel through listening, the world will be a better place.” He adds, “We just need to treat each other the way we teach our children to treat each other in kindergarten.”


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Man’s quest for answers about rare disease uses genealogy to unlock secrets from the past

2019-05-28T06:01:00

(BPT) – When Greg first learned about a rare disease affecting his brother, he had no idea that the illness would shortly come to define his own life, or that his search for answers would take him on a journey going back generations to his Irish ancestors.

Greg grew up in an active family, and his love of the outdoors carried on throughout his life. But when the keen rock climber started having nerve problems in both wrists that made it difficult for him to grip tightly, he knew he needed help. At first, he thought it was carpal tunnel caused by the repetitive flexing needed in the sport. But after further testing, Greg was diagnosed with hereditary ATTR amyloidosis (hATTR) — the same disease that had robbed his beloved older brother of his independence, ability to function and eventually, his life.

“I was absolutely devastated when they told me I had what my brother had. At first, I just refused to accept it,” said Greg. At the time, he didn’t know that hATTR amyloidosis is hereditary and has a genetic link. But with the support of his wife and family, Greg vowed to do everything he could to learn about the condition.

He consulted resources such as hATTR Change the Course and learned that, in people with hATTR, an abnormal protein called amyloid builds up in multiple organs of the body where it should not be. This amyloid buildup causes these organs to stop working normally. Symptoms of hATTR are varied and include digestive problems, as well as nerve damage that can cause changes in balance and coordination.

“hATTR amyloidosis is a rare, and ultimately fatal disease that often affects the nerves, heart and kidneys,” said Daniel Lenihan, M.D., professor of medicine at the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis and a world-renowned expert on hATTR. “The condition can have multiple symptoms that can seem disconnected, and a genetic test can confirm diagnosis.”

More than 80 percent of rare diseases like hATTR amyloidosis have a genetic link, meaning they are passed down through generations. Greg discovered that hATTR amyloidosis is more common in people with Irish, Portuguese, Japanese, Swedish, French or West African ancestry.

Greg had always been proud of his Irish roots, but he was shocked to uncover that the disease may have impacted up to 600 people in his extended family, dating back three centuries to when they came from a small town in Northern Ireland. Knowing that the disease could impact other family members, Greg began to take a closer look at his family tree. Discovering that his grandmother had died young from symptoms similar to his and his brother’s, Greg began to read family journals and delve deeper into the past.

“It’s amazing to me that this condition has had such an impact across so many generations of my family, and on other families just like mine,” said Greg. “My ancestors had no idea they were carriers of this gene, but I’m grateful that we know more about it today.”

“For the first time, there are now treatment options that can slow hATTR amyloidosis with polyneuropathy from getting worse, and the earlier it is diagnosed the better,” said Dr. Lenihan. “Now, when people are diagnosed with this condition, they have choices in how to manage their symptoms, so it’s more important than ever for people who are at risk to find out whether they have the gene for this condition.”

With treatment, Greg is doing much better. “I’m a positive person, and I’m now able to enjoy life just that little bit more now that I know I’m doing everything I can to fight this disease.”

© 2019. Akcea Therapeutics, Inc. All rights reserved. US-TTR-1900117. 3/19


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Caring for customers’ needs through evolving supplemental group insurance benefits

2019-05-28T07:01:00

(BPT) – These days, businesses of all sizes are searching for the latest technological advancements to help transform the working world, whether it be cloud computing or the “internet of things.” In a similar manner, some insurers are evolving their products and services to better care for the needs of the people they serve.

And considering 58 percent1 of U.S. employees can’t cover an unexpected out-of-pocket medical cost of $1,000 or more, people need as much help as they can get.

Insureds increasingly see the need for benefits to meet growing advancements in medicine, which is why companies like Aflac constantly look for ways to innovate their supplemental insurance to meet the demands of the ever-growing list of essentials. As you mull over how to better protect your family’s health and wealth, consider how supplemental group coverage can help relieve financial stress related to health care:

Critical illness insurance helps with serious health scenarios

From heart attacks to strokes, one health incident could change your entire life in a moment. Critical illness coverage offers financial help for covered critical illnesses like major organ transplant, cancer, heart attack and more. In addition to these, look for plans with benefits going beyond the traditional. For example, Aflac group critical illness coverage provides a cash benefit if you are registered on the national organ transplant waiting list as well as upon receiving a transplant. Plus, on top of financial help for a cancer diagnosis, look for plans providing benefits that continue on as you celebrate life as a survivor, cancer-free.

Hospital indemnity insurance helps provide peace of mind

While health insurance can help with some expenses resulting from hospital care, cash benefits from supplemental hospital indemnity coverage can be used however you see fit. Benefits can go toward medical bills, copayments or deductibles, and even living expenses such as rent or mortgage payments. Plans that are more progressive are helpful for the entire family — so, look for benefits for health screenings for preventative care, as well as NICU or PICU care for babies.

Accident insurance for injuries on and off the job

Ask yourself: How would a significant injury impact your ability to pay the potential costs of medical bills as well as losing pay while out of work? That is why many employees are turning to accident coverage, which helps with expenses resulting from injuries big and small. Look for coverage from companies like Aflac extending financial help to those who keep Americans safe, like public service workers, whose livelihoods can put them at higher risk of accidents while working.

Coverage combining the best of group benefits

Looking for a simpler, all-inclusive option? BenExtend® combines the best of Aflac’s group critical illness, hospital and accident insurance to help take the guesswork out of choosing your benefits. It’s especially helpful for busy workers who may want fewer benefits choices to scroll through, yet don’t want to miss out on valuable coverage.

Supplemental coverage without administrative snags

Busy schedules can make benefits administration another daunting task to add to an already full plate. Look for insurers like Aflac that provide online claims submission as well as access to a comprehensive, yet simple one-stop shop for benefits enrollment, ongoing service and billing.

For expenses that health insurance doesn’t cover, Aflac is there to help. Get to know us at AflacGroupInsurance.com.

1 2018 Aflac WorkForces Report.

Continental American Insurance Company (CAIC), a proud member of the Aflac family of insurers, is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Aflac Incorporated and underwrites group coverage. CAIC is not licensed to solicit business in New York, Guam, Puerto Rico, or the Virgin Islands. For groups sitused in California, group coverage is underwritten by Continental American Life Insurance Company. For groups sitused in New York, coverage is underwritten by American Family Life Assurance Company of New York. Continental American Insurance Company • Columbia, South Carolina

This is a brief product overview only. Products and benefits vary by state and may not be available in some states. Plan design and optional benefits are selected at the employer level. The plan(s) has limitations and exclusions that may effect benefits payable. Refer to the plan(s) for complete details, limitations, and exclusions.

In Idaho, policy form numbers CA7700-MP(ID), CAI7800ID, C70100ID, CAI2800ID, C21000ID, CA8500ID, and C80100ID.

In New York, policy form numbers AF7700NY, AF70100NY, AF2800NY, AF21100NY, AF8500NY, and AF80100NY.

In Oklahoma, policy form numbers CA7700-MP(OK), CAI7800OK, C70100OK, CAI2800OK, C21100OK, CA8500-MP (OK), C80100OK, and C81100OK.

AGC1901328 IV (5/19)


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10 movies that connect generations

2019-05-27T07:01:00

(BPT) – Movies both bring us together and bridge generational divides. They help us relate to each other and understand past eras. Great movies also shape a generation, creating a common experience. They reflect the hopes and dreams of their audiences.

Here are 10 movies to help forge connections between parents and children, or grandparents and grandchildren. They will evoke memories and provide lively topics for conversation.

Animated films

Cartoons often reveal emotions kept beneath the surface. Though these children’s films were released over 30 years apart, they share a common theme: What would you give up for love?

“Lady and the Tramp,” 1955, tells of two dogs born on opposite sides of the tracks who fall in love. Pampered cocker spaniel Lady feels neglected after her humans have their first baby. Tramp, a stray, also feels abandoned by humans — he scrounges for food to get by. Would Lady give up her cushy life to be with Tramp? Would Tramp give up his freedom to be with her?

“The Little Mermaid,” 1989, introduces Ariel, a mermaid who wants to be human after falling for a human prince. Ariel must choose whether to sacrifice her beautiful voice to be with him.

Coming-of-age stories

These films explore social cliques and the rules people coped with while growing up. How would they resonate with today’s teens?

In “Rebel Without a Cause,” 1955, James Dean plays a teen from a middle-class family struggling with his identity and parental criticism. When he’s arrested for drunkenness, his bickering parents arrive, revealing their dysfunction. In jail, he befriends a girl who violated curfew and another troubled boy. The three develop a friendship, until they run into trouble with a gang.

A more lighthearted look at teen angst, “The Breakfast Club” (1985), follows an unlikely group suffering Saturday detention together. Although the teens are from different social cliques, they form a bond, learning they have more in common than they first thought.

Romance

Do you know how your parents first met? Maybe you should ask again.

“Marty,” 1955, introduces a middle-aged man badgered by his family to get married. His mother pushes him to go to a dance, where he meets Clara, an “old maid” abandoned by her blind date for being “plain.” Though both are deemed unattractive by society, they overcome criticism from their community and make a connection.

“When Harry Met Sally,” 1989, asks the question: Can men and women be friends? The comedy follows their friendship over the years, until it blossoms into romance. Interspersed with their love story are interviews with elderly couples telling how they first met.

Gender-bending comedies

Provocative for their times, these movies explore gender roles and romance. How do you think they would play to audiences today?

In “Some Like It Hot,” 1959, musicians who witnessed a mob massacre escape by dressing as women and joining an all-female band. Tony Curtis and Jack Lemmon star with Marilyn Monroe in a hilarious movie that questions gender stereotypes and myths about romance.

Not to be outdone for comedy, “Tootsie,” 1982, also explores gender expectations. An out-of-work actor with a bad reputation lands a soap opera gig disguised as a woman. Social norms are challenged as he navigates his new life — as a woman — while pursuing his acting career.

Blockbusters

While these movies — released 19 years apart — are very different, they both inspire a sense of adventure. Ask your parents or grandparents about their biggest travels and adventures, and share some of yours.

Sweeping epic “Lawrence of Arabia,” 1962, is based on real-life British archaeologist and army officer T.E. Lawrence, who led the Arab Revolt against the Turks during WWI. Lawrence falls in love with the Arabian desert as he battles alongside guerrilla fighters in this iconic drama.

A different sort of archaeologist, treasure hunter Indiana Jones seeks the Ark of the Covenant in the 1981 hit “Raiders of the Lost Ark.” Indiana Jones must beat the Nazis before they can harness the powers of the Ark.

Grab a bucket of popcorn and plan a fun movie night with your senior loved one. Many Brookdale Senior Living locations offer theaters that are great for group movie viewing. Visit brookdale.com to find a community near you.


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Small businesses are looking beyond banks for loans

2019-05-26T08:01:00

(BPT) – Growing a business requires strategy, persistence and money. Even the most successful business owners occasionally need extra cash to expand their operations. However, getting this funding through a bank can be an uphill battle.

That was the case for Kate Lester, owner of Kate Lester Interiors, a luxury design firm based in Southern California. After Lester’s business took off, she set her sights on opening a retail space to attract even more clients.

“When the perfect space became available on the Pacific Coast Highway,” she said, “we didn’t have all that capital in the bank.” After reviewing her finances, she decided to apply for a bank loan. Despite being a longtime customer, and having excellent credit and zero debt, she was denied.

Unfortunately, this is a common occurrence for small-business owners across the country. According to a 2018 Fed Small Business Survey, nearly one in two small-business owners struggle to get the financing they need to expand and pursue new opportunities.

That’s largely because banks are still ignoring small businesses, despite their contribution to the economy.

A new report from Oxford Economics shows that:

  • Small businesses are responsible for 60% of all jobs in industrialized countries
  • And yet, in the United States, loans to small businesses make up only 0.7% of banks’ balance sheets
  • Only 13% of business owners who applied for a commercial loan of $25,000 to $100,000 from a bank received at least half the money they asked for

Continued neglect from big banks is leading small-business owners to seek alternatives. After being rejected by her bank, Lester called Funding Circle, an online small-business loans platform that connects business owners who need capital with investors willing to provide it.

“We thought it would be a longer process because of what happened when we went to our bank,” she said. “I spent eight hours on the phone with my bank just trying to get someone to talk to me.”

Banks are notorious for having tedious loan application processes and lengthy turnaround times. Compiling paperwork for an application can take multiple days, and business owners often have to wait another several weeks or months just to receive a response.

Online credit providers, on the other hand, pride themselves on offering faster, simpler financing to small businesses without sacrificing on affordability. For business owners like Lester, maximizing time and resources is crucial.

“Time is something that’s super valuable to me,” she said. “For me to go to a bank, and maybe get one or two points difference in the interest rate, wasn’t worth all the back and forth it would have required.”

Today, Lester’s sales are up 150% after receiving a loan from Funding Circle in 2017. Her story, while remarkable, isn’t exceptional.

Online providers are driving growth and profits for millions of small businesses in the U.S., in turn creating more jobs and boosting the economy. In 2018, businesses borrowing from Funding Circle supported 38,000 jobs and contributed $2.8 billion to the American economy (measured in gross value added).