Freedom at Your Own Pace: How Savvy Travelers are Mastering Solo Travel Trend

2026-05-11T08:01:00

(BPT) – The thought of navigating a new destination without a familiar companion and stepping outside the comfort of a group is the ultimate catalyst for personal growth. Traveling solo means replacing compromise with total independence, transforming every decision into an empowering act of self-discovery that restores your spirit and sharpens your sense of self. Recently, the AARP’s 2026 Travel Trends survey found that travel remains a top priority for 86% of older adults, and with its known physical and emotional benefits, each step of the journey is a chance to boost your health, happiness, and sense of community.

“For the modern traveler, solo travel isn’t about being alone. Rather it is a unique moment where you are able to have the freedom to choose your own pace,” said AARP Services Director of Travel Steve Guilday. “Whether you’re joining a small-group cultural experience, a cruise with like-minded travelers, or a wellness-focused retreat, solo travel allows you to step outside your comfort zone, try new things, and make connections you might not otherwise do when traveling with others.”

While the enthusiasm for travel remains high, the AARP survey also notes that cost remains the biggest hurdle. However, older adults are becoming “deal hunters,” with more than half taking advantage of loyalty programs like an AARP membership to stretch their budgets.

Savvy Planning. Like any other travel, start your solo adventure by choosing the kind of trip you would like to experience. Through the AARP Travel Center powered by Expedia, you can plan an R&R beach vacation, foodie tour across a new city, or solo hiking trip without paying full price. With exclusive deals, seasonal offers, and special savings on hotels, car rentals, and cruises, AARP members can get a $50 gift card of their choice when they book a flight vacation package and receive up to $100 in onboard credit on select cruises to the Caribbean, Alaska, Europe and more. For a limited time, you can kick off summer with an escape and save 30% or more off select hotels. Plus, get a $100 gift card on stays of 3+ nights when you book via AARP Travel Center Powered by Expedia. Offer ends 05/25.

Cruising to a New Community. Solo travelers often find it easier to meet new people. By choosing to take a cruise, many find camaraderie without being constrained by a traditional travel partner. Explore a new destination or enjoy one of your favorites as you sail from port to port. Utilizing your AARP membership, take advantage of Holland America Line’s fleet of 11 ships with more than 500 sailings a year to all seven continents, including cruises in Alaska, the Caribbean, Mexico and Europe. Additionally, you can receive up to $200 in onboard credit per stateroom, based on the length of the cruise and the stateroom chosen.

Or set sail with HX Expeditions where you can experience some of the most remote and awe-inspiring places on the planet from Antarctica to Alaska and Greenland or the Galápagos Islands to the Northwest Passage, and more. AARP members and any travel companions can circumnavigate the world and receive a 5% discount on all cruise fares. You can also receive a €100 per person onboard credit. This offer will be stackable with all in-market HX offers. Terms and conditions apply.

If your solo adventures have you looking to stay closer to land, travel to the city centers and towns that dot picturesque riverbanks, exploring diverse landscapes and the fascinating history and cultures. You can sail the rivers of the world from the waterways of Europe to the Nile in Egypt, India’s Ganges, and the Mekong in Vietnam with Grand European Travel (GET). AARP members save up to $100 in addition to any promotional savings on all-inclusive luxury river cruises. Plus for a limited time, you can sail in style with up to 20% off 2027 all-inclusive river cruises and enjoy world-class gourmet cuisine in luxury accommodations on Europe’s rivers and beyond. Members save an additional $100 per member when they book directly with GET. Ends 5/31.

The Year of the Rail. In 2026, traveling by train is no longer merely an option of getting yourself from point A to B, but rather it can be the destination itself. With more options that offer a seamless blend of efficiency and upscale comfort, travelers are able to swap out the stress of airport security for panoramic views, high-speed travel, and rejuvenation. You can use your AARP membership to save 5% on more than 40 rail and cruise vacations with Vacations by Rail in popular destinations like France’s famous waterways, the Rhine and Danube Rivers, Alaska’s Inside Passage and trans-Atlantic crossings.

Navigating Miles Not Stress. A solo road trip could offer you the ultimate wellness retreat as the day-to-day stresses feel further behind you the more miles you travel. For a limited time, AARP members looking for a little alone time to rediscover the joy of their own company can save up to 35% off base rates when you choose to Pay Now or Pay Later at the Avis or Budget counter — giving you the perfect combination of savings and flexibility.

Finding a Strategic and Safe Stay. When traveling alone, you do not want your evening resting place to be filled with any unwanted surprises. An AARP membership gives you peace of mind and plenty of options with the nearly 7,400 Choice Hotels® properties around the world. Members save 10% on their stays and for a limited time, you can receive 15% off 2+ night stays if you book by December 31, 2026. Check out their website for additional terms and stay dates.

At Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, you can plan ahead and save more. With over 6,500 properties in North America, members save 20% off the Standard Rate when booking at least seven days in advance and selecting the “Pay Now & Save, Non-Refundable” option. Or, you can save 10% off the Standard Rate and get flexible booking when you select the “AARP Members: Save 10%” rate.

Solo travel is the ultimate act of self-care, offering a rare opportunity to disconnect from daily demands and reconnect with yourself. Learn more about additional discounts for AARP members by visiting https://www.aarp.org/membership/benefits.

Redefining Plastic Surgery Standards in the Social Media Age

2026-05-11T08:45:00

(BPT) – With celebrities and influencers openly sharing their surgical tweaks and procedures, there’s never been a more candid conversation around plastic surgery and beauty ideals. With this new emphasis on transparency, the taboo around plastic surgery has shifted, but with it, the standards around patient care have become murky.

In our social media-driven world, doctors can post altered before-and-afters, controlling their image in a way that doesn’t reflect their work and leaving it hard for patients to know who to trust. Across Rowe Plastic Surgery’s offices in New York, New Jersey and Palm Beach, FL, the consistent results and 5-star reviews give patients confidence that these are doctors they can trust.

Dr. Norman Rowe wearing a suit and tie. Rowe Plastic Surgery specializes in a full range of surgical procedures.

Founded in 2003 by renowned, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Norman Rowe, Rowe Plastic Surgery specializes in a full range of surgical procedures from facial aesthetics to body and breast reshaping, especially after weight loss and pregnancy. They can seamlessly refer patients within the group to ensure the best possible care and results. With a “one-ring” policy for all incoming calls, Rowe Plastic Surgery is redefining the industry standards one patient at a time: warm, elevated and most of all, accessible.

Beyond aesthetics, many of the procedures that the Rowe team performs are life-changing and medically necessary, from reconstructive procedures after breast cancer, to necessary skin removals and breast reductions. For one Rowe Plastic Surgery patient, her breast reduction reduced her pain and allowed her to start running. Always advocating for and in full support of this quality of life improvement, the Rowe team sponsored her running group for a marathon last year. These types of long-standing and recurring patient-doctor relationships are not uncommon across the Rowe Plastic Surgery offices.

“As a true patient-centered practice, we work with each patient on a personalized approach to their treatment,” shares Dr. Rowe. “There is no one-size-fits-all.”

What should you look for when choosing a plastic surgeon? Dr. Rowe recommends the following factors.

5 Things to Look For in a Plastic Surgeon

  1. Board Certification
    Not all cosmetic providers are board-certified plastic surgeons. Patients should look for credentials, extensive surgical training, and a proven track record of safety and results.
  2. Consistent, Natural-Looking Results
    A great surgeon doesn’t create the same look on every patient. Results should feel balanced, individualized and aligned with the patient’s anatomy and goals.
  3. Transparency: Online and In Person
    In today’s social media landscape, heavily edited before-and-afters can make it difficult to know what’s real. Patients should look for honest communication, authentic patient outcomes and realistic expectations from the very beginning.
  4. A Personalized Approach
    There is no one-size-fits-all approach to plastic surgery. The right surgeon takes time to understand each patient’s lifestyle, concerns, goals and long-term vision before recommending treatment.
  5. A Reputation Built on Trust
    Beyond photos, patient experience matters. Reviews, referrals, long-term patient relationships and consistent care are often the clearest indicators of a practice patients can truly trust.

To see the difference for yourself and read Rowe Plastic Surgery’s patient testimonials (including reconstructive and post weight loss cases) click here.

Why the next generation of nurses matters more than ever

2026-05-11T13:31:00

(BPT) – Did you know nursing is the largest segment of the U.S. healthcare profession? What’s more, the nursing shortage is growing, with the country facing a projected 189,000 registered nurse openings annually through 2034, largely due to many current nurses approaching retirement age.

In states across the country, the demand for nurses continues to grow as healthcare systems adapt to population growth, an aging demographic and increasing patient needs. These trends are placing added pressure on providers and reinforcing the importance of preparing a new generation of skilled nursing professionals.

With the country’s population aging, plus chronic diseases and public health emergencies on the rise, nurses are vital for keeping the healthcare system running smoothly, providing much-needed patient access and reducing wait times for quality care. The nursing profession is also evolving, merging compassionate care with technological advances like telehealth, remote patient monitoring and AI tools.

“Today’s nursing careers require a growing range of skills and expertise, including bedside care, clinical assessment and technological proficiency, plus leadership qualities, teamwork, communication and critical thinking,” said Dr. Karen Fuss-Sommer, associate provost of Nursing at Carrington College. “The profession also offers numerous work settings, from clinics and hospitals to home care, nursing facilities, schools and more.”

For those considering a career in nursing or advancing their career in the healthcare field, National Nurses Month in May is the perfect time to learn about educational programs providing training, knowledge and experience to help you take the next step toward reaching your career goals.

Preparing the next generation of nurses

If you’re interested in pursuing the satisfying field of nursing, consider exploring the career-focused nursing programs at Carrington College, an institution dedicated to preparing the next generation of nurses to meet the healthcare demands of their local communities. Programs are offered at campuses in California, Idaho, New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada and Oregon. Program availability varies by campus, but here are some of the options that can help you reach your goals.

Entering the field: Vocational Nursing and Practical Nursing

Two student practicing with a mock patient in a hospital setting.

If you’re new to nursing or have been working as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), you can prepare for or advance your career through Carrington College’s Vocational Nursing program, which provides hands-on training and clinical experience to prepare you for entry-level employment under the guidance of a Registered Nurse (RN) or licensed physician in various healthcare settings. This program is available in Bakersfield, Rancho Mirage, Sacramento, Santa Maria, San Jose and Visalia. Students can earn a Vocational Nursing certificate in as few as 12 months, or an associate degree in as few as 15 months.

One alternative is the similar Practical Nursing certificate Carrington College offers in Boise and Albuquerque, offering a quick path to becoming a practical nurse working under the guidance of RNs and physicians, in as few as 12 months. Upon graduation, you’ll be well positioned to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN).[1] Depending on the state where you’re licensed to practice, Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) duties may vary.

“Students need more than textbook knowledge. They need to feel confident in real-world scenarios,” said Dr. Fuss-Sommer. “We focus on simulation-based learning and clinical experiences that reflect what they’ll encounter on the job, including monitoring patient health, administering basic patient care and keeping patient health records.”

Becoming a Registered Nurse

Further along the nursing career path, Carrington College’s Registered Nurse Degree program trains students to work within the healthcare delivery system as providers and managers of care, communicators and collaborators, as well as client advocates and educators. The curriculum covers medical-surgical nursing, geriatric and pediatric care, obstetric and neonatal nursing and mental healthcare. An Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) can be completed in as few as 23 months.

Carrington College also offers Nursing Bridge options to help students transition from an LVN or LPN to become an RN. The program can be completed in as few as 8-12 months and is available in Boise and Sacramento.

“Today’s nursing students must be prepared for a healthcare environment that’s more complex and technology-driven than ever before,” said Dr. Fuss-Sommer. “In addition to clinical knowledge, they need hands-on experience, critical thinking skills and the ability to communicate effectively with patients and care teams.”

How to earn a BS in Nursing

For licensed RNs seeking higher-level roles, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program builds on your experience, expanding your skills in leadership, research, patient care and evidence-based practice. A BSN degree can be earned in as few as 15 months, and the program is conveniently available online. As an RN with a BSN, your advanced skills and knowledge can widen your career opportunities.

“Nursing is a rewarding, impactful profession that offers many opportunities for career advancement, and further education is key to that mobility,” said Dr. Fuss-Sommer. “With hands-on labs and an evidence-based curriculum, our students gain the skills and expertise they need to take the next step in their careers.”

Your next step

With nursing positions available across a wide range of settings nationwide, individuals can pursue paths that align with their interests, while making a meaningful impact in their communities and the lives of others. The healthcare field is more vital than ever, with nurses at the forefront of meeting local healthcare demands.

“Nursing continues to stand out as a career that combines stability with a strong sense of purpose,” Dr. Fuss-Sommer said. “If you’re motivated, passionate and enjoy helping others, a nursing career may be right for you.”

Those interested in exploring nursing career paths can learn more about available programs at Carrington.edu.

Visit Carrington.edu/student-consumer-information for important information on program outcomes.



[1] Carrington College prepares students to take appropriate certification and licensure exams related to their individual majors. The College does not guarantee students will successfully pass these exams or be certified or licensed as a result of completing the program.

Top healthcare tech trends for 2026

2026-05-11T00:01:00

(BPT) – Healthcare technology entered 2026 smarter, faster, and more connected than ever. From creating digital twins of real people to artificial intelligence (AI) gaining momentum, here are trends experts at health-tech company Medtronic say could define this year.

Personalizing care with digital twins

You’re one of a kind. But someday, you could have a digital twin — a virtual version of you that helps clinicians personalize care and predict health outcomes.

How? By combining clinical, physiological, and lifestyle data, a digital twin can mirror the unique characteristics of individual patients.

While a comprehensive human digital twin hasn’t been created yet, patients are already beginning to benefit from this technology. Doctors can now “rehearse” a heart valve replacement using a digital replica of the patient’s heart, predicting how the body may respond to the procedure.

Medtronic is also exploring how digital twins could help develop safe therapies faster.

“A digital twin can help us accelerate research, reduce the need for animal testing, and avoid exposing humans to unnecessary risks,” said Dr. Nathalie Virag, Vice President and General Manager at the Medtronic Bakken Research Center. “Many early-stage experiments can be conducted on a computer before moving to animal or human testing.”

What’s next? Digital twins will become smarter and help clinicians move from reacting to patient health challenges to predicting individual health risks before symptoms appear.

Using AI to answer health questions

A woman speaking in to a cell phone.

You’ve likely asked “Dr. Google” medical questions. But how we find answers is changing. More people are using generative AI to learn about their health concerns, turning to AI overviews and chatbots before seeing a doctor.

While AI can offer quick, personalized answers, it should be used as a tool for learning rather than diagnosing. This is especially true for health conditions like heart disease, which can present differently in women than in men.

“AI can be a great starting point, but it should never replace a conversation with a healthcare professional,” said Dr. Kendra Grubb, Vice President and Chief Medical Officer of Structural Heart at Medtronic. “It doesn’t understand your lifestyle, family history, or clinical signs the way a physician does.”

What’s next? AI could become more connected to wearable devices.

By tracking real-time health data like heart rate and blood pressure, AI-assisted wearables could help identify early warning signs before symptoms start. This could empower patients to seek care sooner and give clinicians insights to personalize treatment.

Need readers? New tech-eyewear collaboration makes fashion functional

2026-05-08T11:01:00

(BPT) – If you’re in the market for reading glasses to make your work and leisure activities easier, you might think you have to sacrifice style for practicality. The good news is, readers have come a long way. You can find more choices today than ever before — including the results of a new collaboration that merges technology that makes everyday life easier with the best in stylish eyewear design: Sharper Image x Foster Grant.

Soft tech meets the soft life movement

This new partnership combines Foster Grant’s proven expertise and originality in eyewear design with the innovative, user-friendly tech approach of Sharper Image. By joining forces, the brands have created elegant, everyday solutions for readers people need for work as well as for simply enjoying their daily lives. Their new readers are perfect not just for engaging with digital devices, but also for slowing down and reading, doing crafts or engaging in other hobbies involving near-vision tasks.

Advanced technology that makes life easier

Shaper Image Foster Grant reader glasses with magnetic clip

These trusted leaders in their respective industries have developed four new collections of readers to meet the moment by satisfying both form and function, using cutting-edge tech and intentional design to combine ease of use with a definite sense of style.

  • Reader with Flashlight Case: It will be easy to protect your wearable and slim new reading glasses, because they come with an efficiently designed, protective hard case. Even better, you’ll help protect your vision thanks to the case’s built-in compact flashlight that’s perfect for reading in low lighting.
  • Reader with Magnetic Sun Clip: You’ll get double your value with these sleek clip-on sunglasses. Their quick-and-easy magnetic design makes it easy to switch from your readers to polarized shades while you’re out and about.
  • Compact Reader: When you’re on the go, it’s easy to worry about losing or breaking your readers. Worry no more, as these slim foldable readers come with an innovative, ultra-thin case. The glasses snap into the case for added security, making these glasses easy to carry — and they’re great for travel.
  • Tech Reader: Designed to tie back to the Sharper Image philosophy to make health and self-care effortless and intuitive in everyday life by merging thoughtful design with clever functionality, these stylish frames incorporate contemporary design with an emphasis on material and innovative frame features. Their memory metal and flex stainless steel elements ensure an optimal fit and comfort for wearers.

“We’re always exploring new ways to push the limits of eyewear and meet the needs of the current moment, and we saw those same values reflected in Sharper Image,” said Mark Flanagan, Director of Design, Foster Grant. “We combined Foster Grant’s expertise in the eyewear space with the decades of experience Sharper Image has in integrating technology into everyday life and wellness. These new reader styles result from an optimal combination of technology and design, creating stylish, functional products to enhance your life.”

These new tech-enhanced options mean you’ll never look at your readers the same way again. Learn more about the innovative features and seamless tech integration of the Sharper Image x Foster Grant collaboration, including where you can find these new readers, at https://www.fostergrant.com/collections/sharper-image-x-foster-grant.

Rethinking summer travel: 4 simple ways to get on the water close to home

2026-05-08T08:01:00

(BPT) – Key Takeaways

  • Find your calm with an on-demand escape to recharge and reconnect.
  • Check out 4 ways to escape to the water and make the most of your summer.
  • Visit DiscoverBoating.com to learn more and start planning your next adventure.

Looking to make the most of summer? You don’t have to travel far to find an escape from your daily routine. Boating delivers an accessible vacation on-demand, transforming an ordinary day into something memorable.

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“With rising travel costs, more Americans are exploring meaningful getaways closer to home and there’s no better way to do that than getting out on the water,” said Ellen Bradley, senior vice president and chief brand officer of Discover Boating. “When you’re on a boat, it’s an opportunity to unplug and reconnect with your loved ones, which is especially valuable in today’s always-on, screen-driven world.”

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There’s a scientific connection between water and happiness — a major draw for the estimated 85 million Americans who take to the water each year, according to the National Marine Manufacturers Association. Time on the water increases serotonin, lowers cortisol and reduces stress, triggering a calm, restorative state of mind, where it’s easier to reset and recharge.

When you’re on a boat, it’s an opportunity to unplug and reconnect with your loved ones, which is especially valuable in today’s always-on, screen-driven world.

— Ellen Bradley, Discover Boating

Whether it’s a spontaneous afternoon cruise, a fishing adventure or simply floating on the water with family and friends, boating makes a day feel well spent. It delivers the kind of experience that shapes how kids remember their summers growing up. In fact, according to recent research from Ipsos, 73% of prospective boat owners say their fondest childhood memories involve being on or near the water, with nearly half recalling those moments before age 13.

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Boating is also more accessible than many people realize. You don’t have to own a boat to enjoy the lifestyle. From rentals to boat clubs, there are flexible options to fit a range of budgets and interests. Discover Boating makes it easy to get started and, for those considering ownership down the road, offers tools and resources to help navigate the next step.

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Ready to dive in? Here are four ways to escape to the water close to home and make the most of your summer:

  • Test the waters by renting. Rental options are available on most waterways and provide hourly, daily or weekly access to a variety of boat types. Rental outfitters provide tutorials on operating a boat, share safety instructions and offer suggestions on destinations. Another option is peer-to-peer boat sharing, which allows you to rent directly from boat owners and often includes the option to hire a captain.
  • Join the club (literally). Boat clubs offer access to a variety of boats. You’ll pay a monthly fee and can book your time on the water and boat type online. Most boat clubs take care of docking, cleaning, maintenance and boat training courses, so all you have to do is show up and go.
  • Learn the ropes. If you’re new to boating or want to build confidence, taking a class is a great place to start. From on-water training courses to watersports camps and youth programs, there are opportunities across the country to help you master the basics while having fun along the way.
  • Chart your course to ownership. Ready to find your dream boat? DiscoverBoating.com offers a boat finder tool and boat loan calculator to help you find an option that fits your budget and interests. If you’re considering buying a boat, make sure it is NMMA Certified. NMMA Certified boat and trailer manufacturers have been independently inspected to ensure they meet strict industry standards for safety and construction, as well as all federal regulations. Look for the NMMA Certified sticker near the helm of a boat.
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Visit DiscoverBoating.com to learn more and start planning your next adventure on the water. You can tag @DiscoverBoating and use #SeeYouOutHere to share your summer boating adventures.

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The gift she actually wants this year (Hint: It powers everything she loves)

2026-05-07T14:31:00

(BPT) – It’s a fact: Not all moms are the same. Do you want to celebrate your own mom, or express your appreciation for some of the other important mother figures who are part of your life? It helps to recognize that moms (and great mom gifts) are not one-size fits all. While candy and flowers are nice, it’s likely that many moms would really appreciate a gift that more clearly reflects their lifestyle and everyday needs.

So for Mother’s Day this year, consider one of these out-of-the-chocolate-box ideas for ways you can make a positive impact on her daily life.

Give her peace of mind

Does your mom give you feelings of comfort and security? For the moms who keep everyone in the household feeling connected, comfortable and safe, consider giving her a tool that will do the same thing for her.

Jackery’s Explorer 5000 Plus solar generator is the ideal gift for a mom who runs the house and expects it to keep running, even during power outages. When she needs large appliances to stay on during severe weather events or any other circumstance, the 5000 Plus makes that possible. It provides 5040Wh of capacity, a 7200W output and 120V/240V dual-voltage so it can handle the big stuff, such as refrigerators and medical devices.

The Explorer 5000 Plus also pairs with Jackery’s Smart Transfer Switch for seamless, automatic backup. Providing your mom with energy independence and peace of mind when she’s at home, no matter what, could be the best gift you ever give her.

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Offer the gift of independence

Has your mom always been your biggest cheerleader, no matter what you’re up to? Now it’s your turn to support her efforts. Many of today’s moms are out there having adventures: They’re camping, hiking and biking, gardening or doing outdoor yoga. They might even run a side hustle from their home or patio, or they may simply refuse to be tethered to a wall outlet. In other words, what a lot of moms really need is a power source that’s compact enough to throw in her car trunk or gear bag, so it can go wherever she wants to be next.

Fortunately, Jackery has the answer, with their solar-compatible Explorer 1000 v2 in Dune White power station, which is specifically built for green, off-grid living. The Explorer 1000 v2 provides a 1070Wh LiFePO4 battery, a 1500W output and a one-hour fast charge, so it’s always ready when she is.

Even better, the power station comes in a warm, neutral colorway that can fit in perfectly anywhere — whether on a kitchen counter, on a patio table or at a campsite — without looking like it just came out of a job site toolbox. In other words, this is a power station she’d actually leave out, and use daily. It helps that Jackery products are designed with everyday lifestyle in mind, not just emergencies.

Ready for Mother’s Day? You can’t go wrong if you consider what your mom really needs. No matter where she is, as long as she has power, connection, comfort and safety, she’ll feel at home.

Jackery is sold at major retailers near you, including Lowe’s, Home Depot, Target, Costco and Best Buy. Visit Jackery.com to learn about these products and more.

Symptoms of Dry Eye and How You Can Find Relief

2026-05-07T08:01:00

(BPT) – Sponsored by AbbVie, the makers of REFRESH

Longer days and more time outdoors can be a welcome change, but for many people, they also bring uncomfortable eye symptoms like dryness, burning, and irritation which can arise from dry air, wind, or smoke. While these issues are often dismissed as temporary or environmental, they may actually be indicative of dry eye, one of the most common eye conditions, with symptoms affecting over 35.5 million Americans.1

Dry eye occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears, when those tears aren’t sufficient to keep the surface of the eye properly lubricated, or your tears evaporate too quickly. Recognizing the symptoms is the first step toward finding lasting relief.

Know the Symptoms: What Dry Eye Really Feels Like

1. Dry, Discomforting Feeling

If your eyes feel like there’s sand or grit in them, it may be more than just low humidity, or wind. The sensation happens when the tear film isn’t able to properly lubricate and protect the eye’s surface, leading to ongoing discomfort associated with dry eyes.2

2. Burning or Stinging Sensation

A burning or stinging feeling is another common symptom.3 Environmental factors like wind, sun exposure, and increased screen time can make this irritation more noticeable, especially throughout the day.

3. Eye Discomfort In Day-to-Day Life
Dry eye symptoms can show up during everyday activities — like reading, using digital devices or spending time outdoors — making your eyes less comfortable.4 This type of ongoing eye discomfort is a common way dry eye may show up in day-to-day life.

4. A Feeling of Irritated Eyes
Eyes may feel irritated, especially after long periods of screen use or time spent in dry or windy environments.5 These sensations can be linked to factors that contribute to dry eye symptoms.

Finding Relief That Works for You

The good news: Dry eye is manageable with the right approach. For many, over-the-counter eye drops are a simple and effective first step.

One option is REFRESH OPTIVE MEGA-3® Multi-Dose Preservative Free, part of the trusted REFRESH portfolio and #1 doctor-recommended brand of artificial tears6. Designed for dry, burning, and irritated eyes, this preservative-free formula helps maintain hydration and works to prevent tears from evaporating.

Its triple-action formulation combines three lubricating ingredients with CMC, Glycerin, and Polysorbate 80 to help lock in moisture and provide long-lasting comfort, with relief that can last 10+ hours.7,* The multidose bottle is also designed for ease of use, delivering a consistent drop while keeping the formula sterile without preservatives, an important consideration for people with sensitive dry eyes.

In addition to using artificial tears to relieve dry eye symptoms, the American Academy of Ophthalmology also recommends lifestyle adjustments like limiting exposure to wind and dry air and taking breaks from screens.

A More Comfortable Way Forward

Dry eye discomfort doesn’t have to be something you simply put up with. By recognizing the symptoms of dry eye, you can take simple steps toward lasting relief.

If your symptoms are ongoing or worsening, it’s important to consult an eye care professional. Dry eye can vary in severity, and personalized treatment can make a meaningful difference.

REFRESH OPTIVE MEGA-3®can be found at major retailers nationwide and in select retail locations where over-the-counter eye drops are sold.

To learn more, visit RefreshEyeDrops.com and purchase REFRESH OPTIVE MEGA-3® directly here.

*Results may vary.


  1. Data on file; US-MULT-240462 2024 Update: Dry Eye Disease State Summary PPT deck; AbbVie; 05/22/2024
  2. Dry Eye, National Eye Institute. Published 2025, Accessed March 25, 2026. https://www.nei.nih.gov/eye-health-information/eye-conditions-and-diseases/dry-eye
  3. Dry Eyes, Cleveland Clinic, Published 2025, Accessed March 25, 2026. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24479-dry-eye
  4. Staff. “Dry Eyes.” Mayo Clinic, 23 Sept. 2022, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dry-eyes/symptoms-causes/syc-20371863.
  5. Staff. “Causes of Dry Eye.” National Eye Institute, 6, Dec. 2024, https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/eye-conditions-and-diseases/dry-eye/causes-dry-eye
  6. Data on file, AbbVie, Inc. REF-113774
  7. Data on file, AbbVie, Inc. REF-136415

Ford Pro Opens Employee Pricing to Business Customers — What It Means for the Workers Who Keep America Running

2026-05-07T05:01:00

(BPT) – Before most people wake up, millions of Americans are already at work. Electricians loading vans in the dark. Utility crews restoring power after a storm. Contractors hauling equipment to a job site before sunrise. These are the workers — and the small businesses behind them — that keep the country functioning, often without fanfare.

Now, the automaker that builds more work trucks and vans for U.S. businesses than any other is offering those customers something typically reserved for its own employees: internal pricing on the vehicles they depend on every day.

From now through July 6, Ford Pro is launching “Employee Pricing: From Our Business to Yours,” giving commercial and small business customers access to what Ford employees actually pay — well below MSRP — on eligible Ford Pro vehicles. No negotiation, no rebate hunting. The price is the price.

Why Ford Pro, and why now?

Ford has been building vehicles designed for work since 1905. Today, its Transit vans and Super Duty trucks are operated by more small businesses than those of any other automaker in America. Ford Pro, the company’s commercial vehicle and services division, exists specifically to serve these customers — the plumbers, general contractors, municipal fleets and first responders who rely on their vehicles not as luxuries, but as essential tools.

The timing is intentional. With operating costs rising across the board — fuel, insurance, parts, labor — Ford says it wants to ease the financial pressure on the businesses and workers that form the backbone of local economies.

“This isn’t a promotion,” said Alicia Boler Davis, president of Ford Pro. “It is a sign of mutual respect. It is our way of easing the burden on the businesses and unsung heroes that carry the weight of this country on their shoulders.”

A personal connection to the work

For Boler Davis, the initiative is more than corporate strategy. She grew up in a blue-collar home in the Detroit area, where her father and grandfather both worked in automotive manufacturing during their careers at Ford. She later joined the company herself as an intern.

“I feel immense pride when I reflect on the work that they did to provide for our family; the long shifts were the foundation to my education and paved the way for my career,” she said. “This is why I came to Ford Pro. I am committed to helping make a difference for today’s essential workers.”

What’s included?

The program covers eligible Ford Pro commercial vehicles and work-site staples, including:

  • Super Duty — Ford’s heavy-duty work truck lineup
  • Transit Van — the full-size commercial van used across trades and fleets
  • F-150 — America’s best-selling truck, a staple for contractors and small business owners
  • Maverick and Ranger — smaller-footprint trucks for businesses that need versatility without the bulk

Specific trim eligibility and full vehicle details are available at FordPro.com or through local Ford dealers.

What it comes down to

Ford’s commercial customers already keep the company’s trucks and vans on the road longer and harder than most. This program flips the script — instead of asking businesses to navigate incentive stacks and dealer markups, Ford is simply offering them the same deal its own people get.

Whether you’re a one-truck operation or managing a fleet, the math is simple: employee pricing means real savings on the vehicles your business already runs on.

The “Employee Pricing: From Our Business to Yours” program runs now through July 6, 2026. For details, visit FordPro.com or contact your local Ford commercial vehicle dealer.

When Birth Becomes Trauma: How One Mother Reclaimed Control

2026-05-06T09:01:00

(BPT) – At 26 weeks pregnant in 2022, Azhia Kirk was rushed into an emergency delivery where everything happened in an instant — without explanation or time for her to process — leaving her scared and alone. Under general anesthesia, she missed the birth of her daughter, Sloane, entirely. When she woke up, her baby was already in the neonatal intensive care unit, where she remained for 113 days.

The experience left Azhia with profound psychological and physiological trauma, including distressing memories and fears. The idea of another pregnancy felt overwhelming. She and her husband, Brent, wanted a second child, but as Sloane approached her first birthday, Azhia realized she needed support to process her delivery experience. She found help through trauma-informed care provided by obstetric anesthesiologist Tracey Vogel, M.D., director of the Perinatal Trauma-informed Care Clinic at Allegheny Health Network, Pittsburgh. Dr. Vogel screened Azhia for anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), with which she was ultimately diagnosed; helped identify triggers from her experience; and connected her to peer support and a program that supported healing through music therapy called the Lullaby Project. She worked closely with Azhia’s obstetrics team, who understood her past trauma and saw her more frequently in the early stages of her second pregnancy.

“I don’t think I would have gotten pregnant again without Dr. Vogel’s support,” said Azhia, a lawyer and mother to Sloane, who is now 3, and Hayes, 1. “She gave me the tools to face another delivery with confidence instead of fear, and my son’s birth was completely different.”

“Anesthesiologists are physicians who are trained to manage high-risk, high-stress situations, which puts us in a unique position to help patients not just physically, but emotionally, when they’re at their most vulnerable,” said Dr. Vogel. “Trauma-informed care starts with listening to each patient to identify what they’ve been through, what triggers their fear, and then building a plan with them and their care teams so they can move through their medical care feeling supported and in control.”

Trauma-informed care recognizes that past experiences can negatively impact a patient’s response to medical care. These may include childhood abuse, intimate partner violence, military service or prior medical trauma — such as poorly managed pain or feeling a loss of control. Trauma can also stem from difficult or emergency births, complications like excessive bleeding, anesthesia challenges or the loss of a baby. Because these experiences can heighten anxiety and trigger stress responses, trauma-informed care focuses on understanding each patient’s emotional and physical needs and emphasizes clear communication, patient choice and step-by-step guidance, creating a sense of safety and control throughout the medical experience.

Understanding Trauma and Building Care Around the Patient

As an anesthesiologist providing anesthesia and pain management during and after labor, Dr. Vogel noticed how often past traumas affected women’s birth experiences. Many carried emotional scars that influenced their response to pain, stress and medical care. Wanting to better support them, she trained in sexual assault counseling and created a specialized clinic to support patients with a history of trauma.

Dr. Vogel has worked with more than 1,000 patients and trained hundreds of clinicians in trauma-informed care. She also supports patients with a history of trauma who have other types of medical procedures, such as surgery, helping them identify triggers, understand what to expect and feel more in control throughout their care.

A Much Better Birth Experience

For Azhia, trauma-informed care made all the difference. When Hayes was born in April 2025, Azhia felt calm, informed and in control, a stark contrast to her first experience. Getting ready for his birth, she was able to ask questions, share her preferences and feel supported throughout her scheduled delivery.

“During my first delivery, I felt scared and completely alone because no one was explaining what was happening,” said Azhia. “This time, Dr. Vogel walked me through every step, including what I would feel, what was happening and what would come next. I learned that I could ask questions and advocate for myself without interfering with my care. That gave me the confidence to be part of the process.”

To learn more about how anesthesiologists keep patients safe during childbirth and before, during and after surgery, visit the American Society of Anesthesiologists at: https://www.asahq.org/madeforthismoment/.

Photo courtesy of Harley Steed Photography.