XMWare

2026-06-30T11:07:01

(BPT) –

By Jae-cheol Lyu, President & CEO of LG Electronics (LG)

NVIDIA, which first introduced the concept of Physical AI, is driving a shift in the industry by expanding AI from the digital world into the physical world. Physical AI refers to a technological paradigm that extends AI’s reasoning capabilities into the real world, enabling systems to perceive space, understand context, make independent judgments and take physical action. The core challenge of this is how to realize “autonomous agents” that can interact with our living environments and make a meaningful difference in our daily lives.

Against this backdrop, LG Electronics (LG) drew attention during NVIDIA founder and CEO Jensen Huang’s recent visit to South Korea for our differentiated competitiveness — connecting data, spaces, devices and industrial infrastructure to bring Physical AI to life in the real world.

LG Electronics and NVIDIA have already further defined the scope of collaboration and strategic partnership opportunities through follow-up discussions in the United States. We agreed to establish a close working framework to accelerate execution, identify mutually beneficial initiatives and jointly expand the Physical AI ecosystem. A key focus is collaboration around robot form factors that could become representative devices for Physical AI.

Beyond robotics, we are also discussing broader synergies, including an LG data factory leveraging NVIDIA’s platform, the advancement of LG’s AI data center cooling solutions and LG’s robot mass-production system. Through these expert-level conversations, we are accelerating our preparations for the future of the Physical AI ecosystem.

So why are global tech giants like NVIDIA turning to LG Group, with LG Electronics at its center, at this pivotal point in the evolution of AI?

Physical AI is a technology that connects AI to action in real-world spaces, and the ability to understand spaces, control devices and create tangible value is emerging as a new source of competitiveness. In this new opportunity space, LG Electronics is gaining recognition for its differentiated strengths connecting data, spaces, devices and industrial infrastructure to bring AI into the real world.

Real-World Data — The Fuel of Physical AI

Physical AI goes beyond the ability to understand language. It can recognize, reason and act within real-world environments. Reaching this new reality will require massive, high-quality data from the physical world.

At LG Electronics, we have collected an expansive repository of safely anonymized usage data from our diverse and constantly growing ThinQ™ portfolio, which is fed into a continuous learning structure that helps us gain insight into customer usage patterns. These insights are then reflected in LG products and solutions. In point of fact, we have accumulated more data than the Hubble Space Telescope.¹ The data we collect can be deployed throughout the business value chain. It serves as a “human behavior signal,” revealing how people live and behave in real-world spaces.

These signals, alongside our world-class manufacturing capabilities, give us a distinct competitive edge when it comes to translating AI into real-world products and services.

Beyond this, we have access to detailed manufacturing data from our 31 production facilities, spanning 14 countries around the world. The volume of manufacturing and production data we have accumulated over the past decade alone reaches 770 terabytes, which is comparable to the storage capacity needed for approximately 197,000 high-definition films.²

In the era of Physical AI, this breadth and fidelity of data is a major advantage.

Spatial Expertise — The Map of Physical AI

Our deep insight into and understanding of diverse living spaces have long been key LG competitive strengths. To deliver Physical AI, the ability to understand how people live, move and interact with technology across various environments, and to adapt and orchestrate those spaces accordingly, is a crucial strategic advantage.

For decades, we have designed and operated in a wide range of spaces, including residential, commercial, industrial and mobility settings, while maintaining continuous customer touchpoints. Through this, we have developed a thorough understanding of people’s lifestyles, device usage patterns, movement flows within spaces and energy consumption behaviors. Building on our technological strengths in HVAC, mobility and robotics, we have secured the capabilities necessary to engineer and run real-world environments where AI solutions can function optimally and create meaningful value for customers.

Our rich knowledge of physical spaces isn’t defined only by matters of engineering; rather, it is equally informed by the human experience. A representative example is the Life Soft Research (LSR) Customer Research Institute, one of our core think tanks, that has spent more than 35 years studying customers around the world — including North America, Asia, the Middle East and Europe — examining their lifestyles, spatial behavior, consumer psychology and attitudes toward technology adoption to forecast the future lifestyles. Drawing on extensive expertise including psychology, anthropology, design, engineering and sociology, the institute has developed a nuanced comprehension of how customers live, move and interact with technology within different spaces. More recently, it has been utilizing AI and big data analysis to gain even more insight into behavioral context and customers’ hidden needs. These insights form the foundation of new product, service and customer experience innovation.

We believe that one of the true differentiators in the emerging Physical AI landscape is the ability to design the stage where AI can operate safely and efficiently. While Physical AI and humanoid robots may feel like science fiction right now, they will ultimately become critical components of our everyday environments.

Here, we hold a unique position in understanding how people interact with a wide range of spaces — including residential, commercial environments, industrial sites and mobility — and turning those insights into products and services. In the era of Physical AI, this experience is expected to become a distinctive strength in the global market.

Execution Capabilities to Make AI Real Technology Ecosystem

Ultimately, the purpose of Physical AI is to move and operate in the real world. This requires various means of physical execution, including sensors, motors, actuators and robotics. With the competitiveness of our state-of-the-art components, including the LG Actuator AXIUM™ and world-class manufacturing capabilities, we essentially command the entire value chain needed to bring Physical AI to life. In robotics in particular, we are laying the foundation for a next-generation Physical AI ecosystem by combining NVIDIA’s AI platform with our proprietary robotics technology and manufacturing know-how. In the AI infrastructure domain, we are supporting the development of more efficient and stable AI operating environments through technology collaboration in next-generation cooling solutions and AI data centers.

What further sets us apart in this key transitional phase is the ability to organically connect AI capabilities across the broader LG Group. Through collaboration with affiliates including LG AI Research, LG CNS, LG U+ and LG Energy Solution, we are integrating AI models, computing infrastructure, energy, data centers, software and operational capabilities into a cohesive whole. This enables us to deliver tailored end-to-end solutions for customers — from AI development and infrastructure build-out, to implementation in industrial settings.

Ultimately, what global big-tech firms like NVIDIA need is a partner capable of deploying, operating and scaling AI within physical environments. As a company that simultaneously possesses a wealth of real-world data, spatial expertise, execution capabilities and a “full stack” AI ecosystem, we are uniquely positioned to be the definitive partner in the Physical AI era.

As AI continues to evolve, global demand for the execution capabilities needed to realize — and scale — real-world AI will only grow. Together with leading companies like NVIDIA, we will connect AI to tangible customer value and industrial innovation, turning the possibilities and potential of Physical AI into reality.

¹ Hubble by the Numbers – NASA Science: 477TB of data accumulated by the Hubble Telescope since 1990.
² Assuming 4GB per film.

2026-06-30T18:01:00

(BPT) – Jumpstart your business or next adventure with Ford Transit with Ford Employee Pricing now through July 6.

In addition to Ford Employee Pricing, Ford Transit customers can qualify for up to $1,000 in Customer Cash.

Deadline: For retail (individual) customers, visit your local Ford dealer to purchase or place a new order by July 6, 2026.

For commercial and fleet customers, visit your local Ford Commercial Vehicle Center or contact Ford Pro at 1.800.34.FLEET to get started.

Fast Facts: America’s Best-Selling Commercial Van

• Ford Transit is America’s best-selling commercial van, offering customers excellent value and versatility, excellent payload and towing capability to meet the needs of businesses, families, and explorers across the country.
• Transit van posted its best sales last year since its U.S. market introduction in 2014, totaling 161,797 vans in 2025.
• New standard equipment includes an all-new 8-inch multi-function dashboard display, SYNC^® 4 with 12-inch center display, Ford Co-Pilot360^® with Active Driver-Assist Features, and a 5G modem with Wi-Fi^® for up to 10 devices — all while maintaining full access to Ford Pro Telematics and Fleet Management tools.
• Available features include Ford Co-Pilot360^® 2.0^® with Remote Acceleration Limiter and Fleet Start Inhibit, and Vehicle Integration System 2.0 upfitting hardware and software.

A Configuration for Every Business

With three roof heights, two wheelbases, three body lengths, and a choice of chassis, cargo, passenger, or cutaway variants, the 2026 Ford Transit offers configurations for virtually any vocation. The T-150 and T-250 handle delivery and small business fleets with up to 4,146 lbs. of payload. The T-350 gives trades and contractors 81.5 inches of interior cargo height with available Trade Packages for electricians, HVAC, and general contractors. The T-350 HD delivers up to 5,103 lbs. of max payload for heavy-duty fleet operations, climbing to 6,452 lbs. as a Cutaway.

What’s New for 2026

Ford engineers have given the 2026 Ford Transit a complete digital refresh. Every model now comes standard with SYNC 4 and a 12-inch center display, an all-new 8-inch digital instrument cluster, a built-in 5G modem with unlimited Wi-Fi for up to 10 devices, keyless push-button start, and Ford Co-Pilot360 with Pre-Collision Assist, Lane-Keeping System, and front and rear parking sensors. Ford Pro Telematics Essentials is included at no cost.

Available features include Intelligent All-Wheel Drive, Pro Power Onboard™ 400W, Close Assist on Mid/High Roof Vans, and Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist 2.0 with Adaptive Cruise Control, 360-Degree Camera, and BLIS with Cross Traffic Alert.

A Ford Connectivity Package is included for the first year, offering Wi-Fi, audio and video streaming, and Connected Navigation. Extended plans are available for purchase beyond the initial year.

Two Engine Choices

The standard 3.5L PFDi V6 produces 275 hp and 260 lb.-ft. of torque. The available 3.5L EcoBoost V6 delivers 300 hp and 400 lb.-ft. of torque with towing up to 6,900 lbs. Both pair with a 10-speed automatic.

The Ford Transit Passenger Van seats up to 15 with available configurations in 2, 12, and 15-passenger layouts across three roof heights. Available features like rear climate control, Close Assist on the sliding door, and Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist 2.0 make it a smart choice for shuttle services, churches, schools, and crew transport.

2026-06-30T10:01:00

(BPT) – Sponsored by BioPlus Specialty Pharmacy

For millions of Americans today, living with chronic disease is a daily struggle. Approximately three in four adults — which is about 194 million people — currently live with at least one chronic disease, including cancer, autoimmune diseases or neurological conditions.

Managing multiple or complex conditions is a challenge in itself, involving not only the patient, but also their family and caregivers in handling numerous medical appointments, monitoring their health and most importantly, following a treatment plan that can include keeping track of several prescriptions.

In fact, not following a doctor’s guidance when taking prescriptions, also known as medical non-adherence, is a serious problem that can lead to poor health outcomes and potentially higher healthcare costs, especially for those who are coping with chronic diseases.

This is where a specialty pharmacy can make a difference for patients. Expert pharmacists and a streamlined system at a specialty pharmacy help to make care coordination, correct medication use, and the overall experience more positive than a traditional pharmacy. By simplifying many of the complexities associated with specialty medications, these services are designed to help patients focus more on their health and less on navigating the healthcare system.

Streamlined specialty service

One such service is BioPlus Specialty Pharmacy. Patients of BioPlus nationwide receive expert care to help them manage chronic and complex conditions with service and support that’s faster, easier and more personalized.

If the prescription needs a prior approval, BioPlus will work with the doctor to get and submit any needed paperwork. Their quick and easy refill process, along with personalized care management tailored to patients’ unique needs, also helps navigate financial assistance programs and medication access.

BioPlus patients have 24/7 access to pharmacists and a clinical care team for support, as well as a patient portal where they can view their medication and account status anytime. And, perhaps most importantly, the streamlined process uses secure shipping designed to protect specialty medications.

Both patients and healthcare providers benefit from the extra layer of support and safety provided by a specialty pharmacy.

“Managing chronic conditions is very challenging for patients and their healthcare providers. Unanswered questions about things like how and when to take medications can unfortunately make the patient experience even more difficult or unsafe,” said Dr. Nicholas Maroulis, Senior Vice President of Pharmacy Services, BioPlus Specialty Pharmacy. “And for healthcare providers, excessive paperwork and communication problems can reduce the time that providers would rather be spending on patient care.”

When patients receive the support they need to start and stay on therapy, they are better positioned to avoid gaps in care, helping improve the care experience and potentially reduce unnecessary, often higher-cost care.

When you might benefit from a specialty pharmacy

For numerous complex or chronic conditions such as multiple sclerosis, Crohn’s disease or rheumatoid arthritis, a specialty medication might be more complicated to use than what patients and caregivers are used to. For example, it might need to be injected or kept at a certain temperature in the fridge, or a medicine might come with side effects that require a little more care and support.

A specialty pharmacy that offers access to a team of dedicated experts can help patients use specialty medications appropriately and consistently while providing education and support.

Supporting patients confronting serious illness

When people are coping with a serious diagnosis such as cancer, simplifying access to medications and support can make it easier for them to stay focused on treatment and overall well-being.

“When a patient hears the word ‘cancer,’ everything changes. Beyond the diagnosis, patients have to navigate heightened emotions, uncertainty and questions, and some may be dealing with their diagnosis without any support,” said Dr. Heera Persaud, PharmD, CSP and Director of Clinical Programs, BioPlus Specialty Pharmacy. “When we focus on patient-centered care, it’s not just about the medication. It’s about timing, guidance and making sure patients know that someone is there to help, even before they ask.”

Learn more about specialized, personal pharmacy support for chronic and complex conditions at BioPlusRX.com.

2026-06-30T10:46:30

(BPT) – This year’s Independence Day isn’t just another holiday weekend. July 4, 2026, will mark 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the founding of the United States of America. The last time the U.S. celebrated a national milestone at this scale was the Bicentennial in 1976, and this year’s celebration is shaping up to be even longer, louder and more ambitious.

If you’re planning to celebrate the semi-quincentennial in a big way, keep in mind that the crowds will be bigger and gatherings more complex. So, whether you’re preparing for a cross-country trek, a camping adventure, overnight family gatherings or a neighborhood bash, you’ll need to scale up your planning to match.

While there are many aspects you’ll need to coordinate before the 4th of July weekend, three key pillars can make or break your multiday celebration: accommodations, food and power. Check out this handy guide that can help you navigate how to plan for these three categories whether you’re road tripping, camping, hosting family or celebrating with the neighborhood.

The historic road trip

Major cities across the country are hosting massive celebrations to mark America’s 250th birthday — from historic Philadelphia and Washington, D.C. to the maritime hubs of New York, Boston and San Diego — and they’re worth road tripping to experience in person. Family and friend groups hoping to blend the freedom of the open road with 250 years of American history at festivals and fireworks should consider the following.

Accommodations: Routes will be packed, so make sure to book your stays in advance, especially city hotels where you plan to celebrate the big day. If you’re lucky enough to have family and friends along the route or at your destination who are happy to host, make sure to coordinate ahead of time. For the RV adventurers, reserve an RV and campground site in advance, so you’re not stuck boondocking at the last minute.

Food: Plan snacks, beverages and dinners in advance so you don’t have to rely solely on fast food and gas station fare to keep your party fueled. Before you go, hit the grocery store for road snacks including chips, dips, veggies, fruits and refreshments.

Of course, you’ll need something to keep your food and beverages chilled. In addition to your regular cooler, consider a plug-in mini-fridge to keep your rations crisp and fresh.

Power: When you’re on the road for hours, you’ll need to keep your electronics and gadgets powered for entertainment and comfort. To keep everything running, consider a portable power station like the Jackery HomePower 1000 v2 or HomePower 2000 Plus v2.

These power stations are compact enough to pack in a trunk but strong enough to run a mini-fridge and charge devices. Because they recharge via solar panels during rest stops, the same summer sun making the 4th great will keep your trip fully powered. And if your 4th of July adventure involves an RV, the Jackery HomePower 3600 Plus is a favorite among RV enthusiasts. A single unit supports 120V, and pairing two delivers 240V. With modularity expandable to 21kWh and the ability to connect to a home’s circuits through a Manual Transfer Switch, it’s just as home-worthy once the RV is parked so you’re covered for the 4th and every day after.

Beyond road trips and RV camping, these HomePower power stations are also an ideal choice for household emergency preparedness. Whether facing unexpected power outages caused by severe weather or needing to power essential home appliances, Jackery power stations provide a reliable energy source. They ensure you can continue using vital lighting, communication devices, and small appliances during emergencies, offering added peace of mind and security for your home in the form of energy independence.

To learn more about keeping your party powered at home or on the go, visit Jackery.com.

2026-06-30T07:01:00

(BPT) – When summer finally hits, it’s all about turning things up a notch. Long sun- and fun-filled days on the water, last-minute hangs with friends, the smell of barbecue grilling and of course, the crack of an ice cold can! And don’t forget the iconic flavors of summer, like the sweet, refreshing tastes of lemonade and cold iced tea. To set the scene, the nation’s No. 1 hard iced tea brand* is ready to let summer rip, and no one does it quite like Twisted Tea.

This is a big summer for America, with so much to celebrate from now through the Fourth of July — which is America’s 250th birthday this year! — all the way to Labor Day. And Twisted Tea will help you top off your red, white and blue look with a can in your hand, filled with the nostalgic flavors that bring a classic American summer to life.

Level up your fun and flavors just in time for all your favorite activities with help from the Twisted Tea Summer Party Pack. Wrapped in red, white, (yellow!) and blue, the Americana-inspired Summer Party Pack includes returning favorites plus a brand new flavor, because there’s no better time to try something new than summer:

• NEW Twisted Lemonade: No tea, just refreshing hard lemonade. Smooth, bold and easy-drinking, Twisted Tea’s Hard Lemonade surprises and delights with its temperature-activated, color-changing can, letting you know when it’s ice-cold and ready to crush. Available exclusively in the Summer Party Pack — snag yours before they’re gone!
• Returning fan favorite Twisted Tea Rocket Pop: Inspired by the beloved red, white and blue ice pop, this blast of cherry, lemon-lime and blue raspberry is back by popular demand. Made with real brewed tea and a whole lot of fruity flavor, Twisted Tea Rocket Pop brings the taste of a classic American summer to every sip.

Together, these two deliver a double dose of summertime nostalgia, hitting you with those iconic, feel-good flavors you know and love.

Plus, these Twisted Tea classics:

• Twisted Tea Original: Made with real brewed tea with a hint of lemon. The smooth and refreshing flavor that started it all!
• Twisted Tea Half & Half: A perfectly twisted combo of half iced tea, half lemonade. Made with real brewed tea for a smooth, balanced sip that goes down easy.

You’ll be sure to level up any summer celebration when you show up with the Summer Party Pack in hand! Grab a 12-pack, 24-pack or go big with the 30-pack to keep the cooler fully stocked for your crew at all times.

But sometimes, you just gotta go bigger! So if a party pack isn’t enough for your next occasion, the Twisted Tea Party Pouch gives you one big ole bag of delicious hard iced tea that holds 14 teas all in one! This certified crowd-pleaser is all dressed up for summer in red, white and blue.

Take your summer to new heights

Celebrating the country’s birthday in style this year, Twisted Tea is also giving a lucky drinker the chance to fly in a real fighter jet. By scanning a QR code on select packs, cans and in-store point-of-sale, fans are entered for a chance to instantly win one of 25,000 prizes, with every scan also entering them for the ultimate grand prize: the jet ride of a lifetime.

Find your favorite Twisted Tea near you at Twisted Tea.com, and follow along on social @TwistedTea.

Please drink responsibly. Learn more at responsibility.org.

*Circana MULO + Conv; L52WE 04/06/2026.

2026-06-25T14:01:00

(BPT) – Key takeaways

• Homeowners are incorporating smart technologies throughout their homes, including solutions to improve indoor air quality (IAQ).
• Improving a home’s IAQ typically involves using multiple products that don’t work together.
• The Panasonic OASYS^® solves this problem by continuously bringing in fresh, filtered outdoor air that is balanced with indoor air to create a healthier living environment and improve IAQ, temperature and humidity.

Modern homeowners are steadily layering technology into every corner of their homes. Whether it’s a smart thermostat, voice assistants, connected security, EV chargers or app-controlled appliances, smart technology is making home life easier and — in some cases — healthier.

Take indoor air quality (IAQ), for example. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Americans spend on average about 90% of their time indoors, where the concentration of some pollutants is often two to five times higher than typical outdoor air. Although you can’t see them, these air pollutants can have very real visible effects on your health and have been associated with:

• Irritation of the eyes, nose and throat.
• Headaches, dizziness and fatigue.
• Respiratory diseases, heart disease and cancer.

There are numerous smart devices on the market to improve IAQ, including monitors, purifiers, dehumidifiers and more. However, these separate IAQ technologies don’t work together, requiring homeowners to monitor and adjust the settings themselves.

Seeing the need for connected IAQ technology that works in concert, Panasonic created OASYS^®, a whole-home air quality management solution that aligns comfort, air quality and energy management, providing homeowners with a true set-it-and-forget-it IAQ system.

Tech designed for integrated IAQ management from the start

Panasonic OASYS^® creates a house that breathes as intentionally as it was designed. The energy-efficient system manages indoor air quality, temperature and humidity without homeowner intervention. The result? Cleaner air, balanced humidity, fewer indoor allergens and pollutants, and consistent temperature control throughout the house from the moment you walk in.

So, how exactly does OASYS^® work to improve IAQ? It all begins with its fresh-air-first approach.

Improving ventilation with outdoor air is one of the fundamental strategies for reducing concentrations of indoor air pollutants. However, most home heating and cooling systems do not mechanically bring in fresh air. By flipping the traditional HVAC logic, OASYS^® provides homeowners with balanced airflow to every room, including hard-to-reach areas, supporting consistent comfort and well-being of families in their home environment.

Bringing in fresh air is especially important for homeowners who are moving into a new build. Construction materials, paint, new furnishings and cleaning products emit chemical vapors known as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), a common source of air pollution. By incorporating OASYS^® into building plans from the beginning, the whole-home air quality management system can reduce exposure to harmful chemicals by removing VOCs from paints, cleaning products and furnishings before you even move in.

Another benefit of OASYS^® is that it uses significantly less energy than conventional HVAC technologies. This isn’t theoretical. In fact, Panasonic built the Panasonic OASYS^® Concept Home in Houston, Texas, as a proving ground for the system. By actively removing pollutants, allergens and excess humidity in Houston’s challenging climate and air quality environment, OASYS^® supports better respiratory health and reduces energy consumption by up to 53% compared to traditional HVAC systems.^*

Homeowners aren’t the only ones who can benefit from installing OASYS^® technology in their homes. For builders and developers, it provides a compelling alternative to standard HVAC, combining energy efficiency, resilience and occupant wellness in a single solution that doesn’t require users to monitor and adjust settings constantly.

Other OASYS^® features that contribute to whole-home wellness include:

• Continuous ventilation: Provides a steady flow of fresh air, reducing indoor air stagnation, airborne pollutants and improving overall air quality.
• Dehumidification: Steady, balanced humidity levels to prevent mold, mildew and structural damage.
• Allergen reduction: Filters out pollen, pet dander, dust mites and other asthma triggers — ideal for sensitive individuals.
• Low maintenance: Designed for reliability and ease of use, with intuitive smart controls that require minimal upkeep.

Because OASYS^® combines multiple products into one cohesive system, ongoing maintenance is simple, predictable and designed to support long-term, whole-home air quality management. Best of all, it operates in the background, reflecting a growing preference for homes that are not just connected but thoughtfully integrated.

Whole-home comfort completes the modern, high-performance home

A cleaner, more comfortable home that supports holistic wellness doesn’t happen by accident. It’s built that way from the start, with smart technology that works together and does the work for you. For more information on the benefits of Panasonic OASYS^®, visit: iaq.na.panasonic.com/oasys.

*Based on a July 2024 analysis commissioned by Panasonic comparing the OASYS solution against conventional system designs, using a two-story, 4-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom house with light concrete tile roofing and a ventilated crawlspace underneath the first floor as the model home. Energy savings compare a Panasonic high-efficiency design, including an OASYS high-efficiency custom HVAC system and high-performance envelope, to a code minimum house design utilizing a standard gas furnace. Energy demand was converted and standardized to kilowatt hours (kWh), with the model estimating 5,932 kWh annual energy consumption for the OASYS system compared to an estimated 12,744 kWh annual energy consumption for the conventional system, a reduction in annual energy consumption of 53%. The U.S. Department of Energy’s IES Virtual Environment software was used to produce an HVAC load sizing report, while the building’s energy usage was assessed with the National Renewable Energy Lab’s BEopt tool.

2026-06-25T10:01:00

(BPT) – Receiving an unexpected medical diagnosis for a child can feel overwhelming for any parent. For families navigating a new diagnosis of achondroplasia, a rare genetic condition that affects how children grow and develop, knowledge is one of the most powerful tools available. Although achondroplasia is often associated with short stature, its impact reaches beyond height, affecting other vital areas of health and development. Understanding the full scope of the condition can help families feel grounded, informed and ready to support their child’s unique journey.

Understanding achondroplasia

Achondroplasia is the most common form of skeletal dysplasia (short-limbed, disproportionate short stature). At its core, the condition is caused by a specific gene variant that alters bone development and is expressed in tissues throughout the body.

Physically, people with achondroplasia typically have a long, narrow trunk, a larger head and shorter arms and legs. As children grow, these physical differences can shape how they interact with the world around them. Everyday milestones and activities, such as reaching a high shelf, using the bathroom independently, or participating in active play or sports may require adaptations and extra support.

The path to diagnosis and early monitoring

For some families, the journey begins before their child is even born, as achondroplasia can sometimes be suspected during pregnancy based on ultrasound findings. Genetic testing may be used to confirm the diagnosis before or after birth. In other cases, the diagnosis comes after birth and may involve a physical examination, imaging such as X-rays, and genetic tests.

Whenever the diagnosis occurs, early diagnosis is a crucial first step. It helps families to proactively partner with their child’s healthcare team to monitor growth and watch for potential complications over time.

“While achondroplasia is often thought of primarily in terms of height, it can affect multiple systems throughout the body,” explains Dr. Chaya Murali, Pediatric Geneticist, Baylor College of Medicine. “Medical complications of achondroplasia may vary across different stages of life and differ between individuals, which is why ongoing monitoring and individual care are vital.”

Looking at the whole picture: health considerations

As Dr. Murali notes, achondroplasia is about much more than just bone growth. It can also impact muscles, nerves, and breathing. Because achondroplasia affects each person differently, potential medical complications may vary across different stages of life and differ between individuals.

Throughout their lives, individuals may face an increased risk for specific health challenges, including spinal abnormalities and impaired muscle strength. Some of these complications may persist or evolve as a child grows into an adult and may occasionally require multiple medical procedures and surgeries to address specific functional or anatomical concerns.

Ultimately, these medical factors, combined with social and individual influences, can play a significant role in a person’s physical functioning, psychosocial well-being, and overall quality of life.

A team approach to individualized care

Because achondroplasia touches multiple systems in the body, care is rarely a solo endeavor. It often involves a multidisciplinary healthcare team, which may include pediatricians, geneticists, endocrinologists, ear-nose-throat specialists, neurosurgeons, sleep specialists, and orthopedic specialists.

Historically, the primary management approach has focused on closely monitoring the child and addressing complications as they arise. However, medical decisions remain deeply personal and are never one-size-fits-all. Families are encouraged to speak with their healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate approach for their child.

Determining your approach and finding support

Parents are encouraged to speak openly with their healthcare providers to map out the most appropriate care approach for their child. Beyond the clinic, finding supportive communities and accessing accurate, reliable information can help families confidently track their child’s progress and navigate ongoing healthcare discussions.

To learn more about achondroplasia, visit: https://askaboutachondroplasia.com/.

Featured in the photo are Lawson (age 4) and his mother, Chelsea.

2026-06-25T12:27:00

(BPT) – A new wave of nostalgic ’90s summer mom energy is taking over — and it’s a welcome shift. Enter the Butter Mom: someone who brings warmth, ease and a sense of joy into everyday life, especially in the kitchen. Her philosophy is rooted in flexibility, where cooking and baking are less about chasing perfection and more about enjoyment, connection and a little creativity. Being a Butter Mom means embracing food that feels comforting, nostalgic and satisfying — whether it’s Sunday morning pancakes, a melty grilled cheese or an extra swipe of butter on warm sourdough. She has the kind of kitchen where you measure with your heart and keep things simple with wholesome ingredients. Butter Moms don’t overcomplicate, they keep things real. Some days call for something quick and practical, while other days invite you to slow down and savor the process.

This summer, the fan-favorite butter brand, Land O Lakes, is championing Butter Moms everywhere and celebrating the simple, feel-good indulgences that define this easygoing approach to living well. With dependable recipes and versatile, everyday staples like butter and cheese, the brand helps make weeknight meals and special moments feel approachable and satisfying. Because in a Butter Mom’s kitchen, life doesn’t have to be picture-perfect to be meaningful — it can be a little messy, a little playful and still full of heart.

Here are a few effortless ways to channel your inner Butter Mom all summer long, keeping things simple and real:

1. Live a Little — and Own It

At its core, Butter Mom energy is confident. It’s knowing what you like, trusting your gut and not apologizing for it … including seconds at dinner, an extra pat of butter on the potatoes, dessert just because. This is balance. This is joy. Butter Moms embrace the beautiful messiness of life and savor it fully.

2. Choose Joy Over Perfection in the Kitchen

Butter Moms aren’t chasing perfection, they’re chasing enjoyment. Taking a page out of their playbook, remind yourself that dinner doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious. With a few quality ingredients and a little confidence, you already have everything you need. Trust your instincts and keep it simple! Cooking becomes less about getting everything “just right” and more about care — feeding yourself and the people you love in a way that feels warm and grounded. It’s not about perfection, it’s about following your gut. Get inspired this summer with a special recipe collection created specifically for the Butter Mom in all of us.

3. Embrace No-Stress Entertaining

Hosting doesn’t have to feel like a production. Butter Moms keep it easy: Invite guests to bring a favorite side, set out a simple drink station and build a grazing board from whatever’s in the fridge. Add Land O Lakes^® Extra Sharp Cheddar & Habanero Jack Cheese Cubes for a creamy, flavorful touch that ties everything together. No pressure, no fuss — just good company and good food.

4. Lean Into Nostalgia

When it comes to style, Butter Moms don’t overthink their wardrobes — their fashion is as uncomplicated as their food choices. They always show up unique and genuinely as themselves. To get the look of the moment, opt for vintage jeans, oversized button-downs and perfectly worn-in tees. Their vibe is relaxed, unfussy and authentic. If it feels a little nostalgic and a lot more comfortable, you’re on the right track.

5. Say “YES” to Real Ingredients

In true Butter Mom form, don’t hold back on what feels right, including the butter! Butter has this way of turning something simple into something unforgettable. Think fluffy waffles with melted butter and maple syrup on top, or hot buttered pasta tossed with lemon and herbs until it glistens, or melted over salmon for that golden, tasty finish. Butter Moms know that a little extra richness isn’t overdoing it — it’s the whole point. With Land O Lakes^® Butter on hand, even the simplest meals feel like a small upgrade in comfort.

6. Make Room for a Little Indulgence

At their core, Butter Moms believe in moderation and truly enjoying the moment. Whether it’s an afternoon snack plate or a cozy, late-night bite, they savor the little things and give themselves permission to indulge, with no overthinking and no guilt. So, go ahead and enjoy a handful of buttery popcorn, a scoop of cold pasta salad or maybe a warm blueberry muffin straight from the oven. These moms know that putting out a welcoming plate of crackers and cheese can quickly turn into a special moment with friends or loved ones.

This summer, be the Butter Mom you long to be: Keep things easy, cook what feels good and don’t overthink things. Because when you slow down and let yourself enjoy it all, everyday moments can become a little more magical.