XMWare

2026-10-29T12:01:00

(BPT) – Kairo was a baby when his seizures began. Hospital stays, tests and medications followed, and eventually his family had a name for what he was facing: Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome (LGS).

For families like Kairo’s, epilepsy is only part of the story.

LGS is a rare, severe form of epilepsy that develops in young children and can lead to lifelong disability. The condition affects about 50,000 in the United States and 1 million worldwide.

While seizures are a defining feature of LGS, their impact can extend much further. People with LGS typically experience more than one type of seizure, sometimes several in a single day, and most continue to have seizures despite trying multiple medications. LGS can also affect development, communication and behavior, creating complex and evolving needs for individuals and the families who care for them.

Behind every diagnosis is a family

The journey with LGS can involve uncertainty, medical appointments, treatment decisions and the ongoing demands of care. No two experiences are exactly alike.

Kairo’s family says their early concerns were brushed off, and that some of the hardest moments have come from fighting for access to care and essential equipment, not only from the seizures themselves. What has helped most is doctors who listen and families who understand. As his mom puts it, “Families like ours should not have to fight this hard to keep our children safe.”

Stories like Kairo’s are a reminder that behind every diagnosis is a person, and that LGS affects the entire family.

Awareness can open doors

Every year on Nov. 1, the LGS community comes together for International LGS Awareness Day™. This day brings families, advocates, healthcare professionals, researchers and supporters together to increase understanding of the condition, advocate for change and help accelerate research.

This awareness is important all year long as it helps families find something deeply important: connection.

The LGS Foundation provides opportunities for families to connect through online communities, patient navigators, family ambassadors, private support networks and other resources developed for people affected by LGS.

Families can also help shape the future of LGS research

There is currently no cure for LGS, and more than 85% of children with the condition will continue to experience seizures into adulthood despite available treatments.

Better understanding LGS requires learning directly from the people who live with it. Through the LGS-CORE Study, individuals and families with LGS can contribute information about their experiences, symptoms, treatments, milestones and quality of life. That information can help researchers identify patterns, understand unmet needs and explore new directions for research and care.

The study reflects a larger principle behind the LGS Foundation’s research efforts: Families help shape the questions researchers seek to answer. Its multi-year Powering Breakthroughs research plan puts families at the center and focuses research on improving outcomes that matter to people living with LGS.

Learn, connect and take action

The LGS Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of people affected by LGS by supporting families, increasing awareness and advancing research.

Take a moment to learn more about LGS, share reliable information with someone who may benefit, or connect with the community to help make a rare condition more visible and better understood.

Visit the International LGS Awareness Day™ website to learn more and find ways to get involved.

This article was developed by SK Life Science, Inc., a proud supporter of the LGS Foundation.

2026-10-29T13:01:00

(BPT) – Do you know how often you should replace your smoke or carbon monoxide (CO) alarms? When’s the last time you tested your alarm? Do you have enough smoke and CO alarms in your home?

If you don’t know the answer to these simple yet important fire safety questions, you’re not alone. According to the 2026 First Alert^® Safety Pulse survey*, there is a significant gap in homeowners’ knowledge of smoke and CO alarms. Read on to see if you know the answers to these eight critical fire safety questions.

How many smoke alarms do I need for my home?

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside sleeping areas and on every level of the home, including the basement.

How often should I replace a smoke or CO alarm?

You should replace your alarms every 10 years. If you assumed that smoke and CO alarms will work forever, you’re not alone. Only 7% of homeowners surveyed know that smoke and CO alarms should be replaced every 10 years.

Are alarm batteries difficult to replace?

How difficult it is to replace alarm batteries depends on the type of alarm you have. Some models require you to remove the alarm from the ceiling to change its batteries, a task that 41% of homeowners don’t want to do. Other models, like the new First Alert alarms, feature side-load battery drawers, allowing batteries to be replaced without removing the alarm from the ceiling.

Do I need to clean the smoke and CO alarms?

Yes, you should regularly clean your alarms, about once a month. Less than a third of homeowners (29%) regularly clean or dust their smoke alarms. Overlooking this simple but important maintenance task can cause dust and debris buildup that can trigger nuisance alarms, chirping, reduced performance or other unexpected behavior.

How often should I test an alarm?

You should test your smoke and CO alarms at least once a month to ensure they are working properly. According to the Safety Pulse survey, only 34% of homeowners regularly test their alarms. Testing your alarm helps ensure you’ll be alerted should a fire break out, giving you valuable time to react, gather your family and get out of the home safely.

To make regular testing easier, consider installing next-generation alarms like First Alert smoke, CO and combination alarms. These alarms feature a centrally located Test/Silence button, nearly three times larger than in previous models, providing convenient access for routine testing and temporary alarm silencing.

Do I need a fire extinguisher?

Yes, you absolutely need a fire extinguisher in your home. The First Alert Safety Pulse found that 65% of homeowners keep a fire extinguisher at home. If you’re one of the 35% who don’t, purchase a fire extinguisher for every level of your house, as well as the kitchen and garage.

If a fire breaks out, how much time do I have to leave?

According to the NFPA, you have as little as one or two minutes to escape safely once a smoke alarm sounds. Contemporary building materials and furnishings can burn hotter and spread faster than older homes built with natural materials. That’s why it’s critical that you install alarms with advanced sensing technology that provides earlier fire warnings, so you can make every second count.

Should I prepare a home fire escape plan?

Yes, you should establish a home fire escape plan and practice it at least twice a year. The survey found that only 19% of homeowners have a home fire escape plan. Having a plan in place and practicing it can help your household stay safe if the worst were to happen.

Home fire safety isn’t difficult. Knowing the answers to these eight important questions can help you better prepare your home in case of a fire. To learn more about fire safety, visit the First Alert Safety Corner blog. To learn more about First Alert products, visit FirstAlert.com.

*Resideo Fire Safety Pulse, 2026: Results are based on the responses of 2,000 homeowners aged 18-65 living in the U.S. who completed an online survey.

2026-10-29T12:01:00

(BPT) – Between packed calendars, family activities and preparations for the holidays, figuring out which vaccines you need may not be at the top of your to-do list. But with respiratory illness season underway, a little planning now can help in the months ahead.

From flu and COVID-19 to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and pneumococcal disease, vaccines are available to help protect against severe illness — and getting vaccinated may be easier than you think.

Respiratory vaccines are offered in a variety of locations, typically at no cost to you. Knowing which vaccines you may need, where to get them and what your insurance covers can help you prepare to protect your health this season.

Start with what’s recommended for you

With several respiratory vaccines available, the vaccines that are right for you can depend on factors such as your age, health and vaccination history.

Guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and leading medical societies broadly includes flu and COVID-19 vaccination for all adults, as well as pneumococcal vaccination for adults ages 50 and older. RSV vaccination is recommended for all adults ages 75 and older, and adults ages 50-74 who are at increased risk for severe illness.

Checking your vaccination history and talking with a trusted healthcare provider, such as a doctor, nurse or pharmacist, can help you determine your best options. Your provider can also help you better understand your risk for respiratory illness.

Ways to fit vaccination into your schedule

Whether you’re scheduling an annual checkup, stopping by your local pharmacy or simply reviewing your vaccination history, now is a good time to think about protecting your health.

Finding time for another appointment isn’t always easy, but doctors’ offices, pharmacies, community health centers and other local clinics are all convenient places to get vaccinated.

A doctor’s office can be a good place to start, particularly if you have questions. Pharmacies can offer added flexibility, with many providing walk-in appointments or evening and weekend hours. And if you need more than one vaccine, you may be able to receive them during the same visit. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if this is an option.

A little planning can make vaccination easier

Once you’ve decided where to go, a few simple steps can help make your vaccination visit go smoothly.

Wherever you plan to get vaccinated, consider calling ahead to find out which vaccines are available, whether you need an appointment and whether the location accepts your insurance. A quick check can help you know what to expect before your visit.

Private and public health insurance plans cover recommended vaccines at no cost to you. If you don’t have insurance, you may be able to access vaccines free of cost through patient assistance programs or state or local health departments.

Bring your insurance card with you to get vaccinated, along with any available vaccination records. It can also be helpful to have a list of your current medications and allergies, especially if you’re visiting a new provider. Your appointment is also a good opportunity to ask questions about what to expect after getting vaccinated.

Looking for more information? Talk with a healthcare provider and make a plan using CVEEP’s Vaccine Locator to find a vaccination location near you. Visit CVEEP.org to learn about vaccines and how they help protect your health.

2026-10-29T08:01:01

(BPT) – Did you know that if you are on a GLP-1, you may be more prone to certain oral health problems, like cavities? Some people taking GLP-1s have experienced side effects including dry mouth, halitosis (bad breath), and decreased saliva, which may increase your risk for cavities and/or gingivitis. That means it’s especially important to maintain good oral health practices while on this type of medication.

“Oral health is connected to your overall health and wellbeing,” said Dr. Maria Ryan, Executive Vice President and Chief Clinical Officer at Colgate-Palmolive. “Any time you take a new medication, such as a GLP-1, it’s best to consult with your healthcare provider about any potential side effects, so you can proactively address possible issues.”

Try these simple oral health tips, in honor of National Dental Hygiene Month, to help you feel more confident throughout your GLP-1 journey.

Keep regular dental appointments

One key way to maintain good oral health is through timely semi-annual cleanings and checkups with your dentist. Preventive dentistry helps ensure that your teeth and gums remain healthy, and helps catch issues early, when they’re more easily treatable.

Pro tip: Use your favorite calendar system or app to ensure that you don’t forget about these crucial appointments. Connecting your dental appointments with specific dates, like your birthday or another holiday, can also help you remember to schedule them.

Use products designed specifically for proactive care

The best oral health products help prevent problems before they can even start. For example, you can stay on top of your oral health while on your GLP-1 journey with help from Colgate Total Active Prevention Toothpaste, which fights the root cause of many oral health problems like cavities and gingivitis with twice daily brushing.* Colgate Total toothpaste contains bioactive stannous fluoride, which is specially formulated to provide long-lasting antibacterial protection and a unique mode of action for sensitivity relief, gingivitis, erosion and cavity protection.

“Colgate Total Active Prevention Toothpaste helps you be proactive about your oral health when used as directed by reducing bacteria that accumulates in plaque and hardens to calculus or tartar, causing oral health problems such as cavities, gingivitis, sensitivity, bad breath and weakened enamel,” added Dr. Ryan. “Being proactive about oral hygiene is particularly important when you’re taking any medications that may have an impact on your oral health, such as GLP-1s.”

Pro tip: Stock up on Colgate Total to help maintain your oral hygiene habits at Walmart.com.

Stack hygiene habits

You probably already know that you need to brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, floss and use mouthwash as needed, but it can be all too easy to forget. Many behavioral experts recommend the practice of “habit stacking,” which can help habits you want to keep become a regular part of your day, so you no longer have to think about them.

For example, if you have a habit you already perform automatically, like taking a shower in the morning or putting in your contact lenses, add brushing and/or flossing your teeth just before or after that habit, to start thinking of them as one complete unit. Stacking habits together makes them automatic, so it’s a lot less likely you’ll forget one part of that routine.

Pro tip: Assemble a portable oral health kit that’s small enough to take along to work or wherever else your day takes you, making it easier to brush and floss after a meal even when you’re away from home.

While you’re taking positive steps to improve your overall physical health, don’t forget that your oral health is just as important. You can find Colgate Total Toothpaste at Walmart.com and all major retailers. You can also visit Colgate.com to learn more about GLP-1s and oral health.

*via bacteria reduction, oral health problem like cavities and gingivitis with twice daily brushing

2026-10-29T09:01:01

(BPT) – Key takeaways:

• Before surgery, it’s vital for parents and caregivers to help prepare a child by following fasting and medication instructions, and sharing complete information about the child’s health.
• CRNAs, also known as nurse anesthesiologists or nurse anesthetists, provide anesthesia and pain management before, during and after procedures, including continuous monitoring during anesthesia.
• Parents and caregivers can find practical information, questions to ask and recovery tips by visiting AnesthesiaAnswers.org, a resource from the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology (AANA).

It’s never easy to have a child who needs surgery, and it’s natural to have many questions. To help families find clear, practical information, the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology created AnesthesiaAnswers.org, an online resource about anesthesia, procedures and recovery.

AANA represents Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs), also known as nurse anesthesiologists, who provide anesthesia and pain management before, during and after procedures.

To help families prepare, AANA offers the following guidance about what to expect before, during and after anesthesia.

Why it’s crucial to follow instructions before surgery

You play an essential role in your child’s safety because you know them better than anyone else.

“Parents are an important part of the anesthesia safety team,” said Suzanne Wright, Ph.D., CRNA, FAANA, chair of AANA’s Patient Safety Advisory Panel. “Follow your child’s preoperative instructions carefully, and never hesitate to ask questions. Knowing when your child last ate, drank, or took medication, for example, can make a meaningful difference in keeping them safe during anesthesia.”

Parents will receive specific instructions for their child about when to stop eating and drinking. Following these instructions exactly helps reduce the chance that food or liquid in the stomach could enter the lungs under anesthesia, a serious complication called aspiration.

What you should know before your child gets anesthesia

Before surgery, a CRNA or other anesthesia professional will review when your child last ate or drank, discuss your child’s health and assess their airway.

Make sure to tell the CRNA about any current or recent respiratory illness — including a cold, flu or COVID-19 — and symptoms such as coughing, congestion, fever or wheezing, even if your child seems to have recovered. Recent respiratory infections can leave a child’s airway more sensitive for several weeks and may increase the risk of breathing problems during or after anesthesia. Providing detailed information helps the anesthesia team assess your child’s individual risk and determine whether any changes to the anesthesia plan or timing of an elective procedure should be considered.

The CRNA will:

• Confirm past experiences: You’ll be asked how your child has done with anesthesia before, and about family history of rare reactions.
• Review anesthesia plan: They will explain the plan, introduce the anesthesia professionals caring for your child and review consent forms.
• Ease anxiety: Children may receive medication to help them relax, either by mouth, through the nose or through an IV, depending on their age. Child life specialists may be available to help reduce anxiety.

The most important thing to do before surgery is to follow all your healthcare provider’s instructions.

2026-10-28T10:57:00

(BPT) – As the weather cools and fall routines settle in, there’s something special about gathering around the table to enjoy comforting meals with family and friends. From cozy weeknight dinners to casual weekend gatherings, autumn offers plenty of opportunities to slow down, reconnect and savor the flavors of the season.

But creating a memorable meal doesn’t have to mean spending hours in the kitchen, preparing elaborate recipes or planning the perfect gathering. Sometimes, the simplest touches can make an everyday meal feel extraordinary.

Chef and food creator Jenny Martinez, known for her approachable cooking style and flavorful recipes, believes great meals are about more than what’s on the plate. They’re about bringing people together, enjoying delicious food and finding simple ways to make everyday moments special. With that in mind, she shares five easy ways to bring more flavor, freshness and warmth to fall meals without the fuss.

1. Bring Fall Colors and Flavors to the Table

One of the easiest ways to embrace autumn is to incorporate the season’s beautiful colors and comforting flavors into everyday meals. Think roasted butternut squash, sweet potatoes, colorful vegetables and crisp, fresh greens. Combining warm seasonal ingredients with fresh elements creates a delicious contrast of flavors, colors and textures.

You can carry the seasonal inspiration beyond the plate with a few simple decorative touches. Add a small arrangement of fall flowers, light a few candles or use warm-toned napkins to create an inviting atmosphere. The key is to keep things simple. A colorful meal served in a welcoming setting can make even an ordinary Tuesday dinner feel like a special occasion.

2. Give Everyday Favorites a Restaurant-Inspired Twist

You don’t need a complicated recipe or an expensive restaurant reservation to make dinner feel special. Small upgrades can transform familiar dishes into something exciting. Finish roasted chicken with fresh herbs, add a flavorful sauce to grilled proteins or serve pasta with a colorful salad for a fresh contrast.

Presentation matters, too. Arrange ingredients thoughtfully, use your favorite serving dishes and add a finishing touch of herbs, cheese or crunchy toppings.

3. Balance Comfort Food with Something Fresh

Fall is the season for comforting favorites, from hearty casseroles and roasted meats to warm pasta dishes and savory seasonal vegetables. One simple way to make these meals even more enjoyable is to pair rich, comforting flavors with something crisp and refreshing.

A fresh salad adds a welcome contrast in texture and flavor, helping create a satisfying meal without requiring additional time in the kitchen.

Try pairing roasted chicken with a crunchy chopped salad, serving a fresh green salad alongside baked pasta or adding colorful vegetables to a favorite family dinner. The result is a delicious combination of comforting and fresh flavors that makes seasonal meals feel complete.

4. Keep Fall Entertaining Simple and Stress-Free

Hosting friends and family should be about enjoying time together, not spending the entire gathering in the kitchen. Instead of preparing an elaborate menu, choose a few dishes that are easy to make, serve and share. Build the meal around a favorite main course, then complement it with convenient sides and seasonal ingredients.

Preparing certain dishes ahead of time can also make entertaining easier. Roast vegetables in advance, prepare sauces before guests arrive and choose fresh sides that require minimal preparation. Family-style serving is another simple way to create a relaxed atmosphere. Place dishes in the center of the table and let everyone help themselves.

For larger gatherings, invite guests to contribute a favorite appetizer, side dish or dessert. Sharing the preparation makes the occasion feel more collaborative and gives everyone an opportunity to bring something special to the table.

With a few smart shortcuts, you can spend less time preparing and more time enjoying the company.

5. Make Mealtime About More Than the Meal

Some of the most memorable moments happen around the dinner table. Whether it’s a weeknight meal with family or a casual gathering with friends, taking time to connect can turn an ordinary dinner into something meaningful.

Create simple traditions that everyone can look forward to, such as a weekly family dinner, taco night or a favorite seasonal meal. Encourage everyone to put away their phones, share stories from their day and enjoy the experience of being together.

And remember, memorable meals don’t have to be elaborate. A delicious main dish, a fresh salad and a welcoming table are often all you need.

For a seasonal dinner that brings comforting flavors and freshness together, try this Thanksgiving Roasted Chicken with Fresh Express Sunflower Crisp Chopped Salad. The combination of roasted chicken, butternut squash and a crisp, flavorful salad makes a delicious addition to fall gatherings.

Thanksgiving Roasted Chicken with Sunflower Crisp Chopped Salad

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 1 hour, 25 minutes

Resting time: 10 minutes

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 (10.9-ounce) package Fresh Express^® Sunflower Crisp Chopped Kit
• 1 (6-ounce) package stovetop stuffing
• 2 raw chickens
• 1/2 cup butter
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning, divided
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 large butternut squash, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Remove the giblets and any other contents from the chicken cavities.
3. Melt butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, garlic powder and black pepper. Mix well and remove from heat.
4. Place chickens in an appropriately sized roasting pan or baking dish. Tie legs together and tuck wings underneath. Brush with the seasoned butter mixture.
5. Toss butternut squash with olive oil and remaining Italian seasoning. Arrange in a single layer on a baking sheet and season lightly with salt.
6. Roast chickens for approximately 60 minutes. Add the butternut squash to the oven and continue roasting for approximately 25 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F in the thickest part of the thigh. Cooking time will vary depending on chicken size. Baste periodically with the butter mixture.
7. Remove chickens from the oven, tent loosely with foil and let rest for 10 minutes.
8. Place the greens from the Fresh Express Sunflower Crisp Chopped Kit in a large bowl. Add the roasted butternut squash and toss gently. Add the included dressing and toppings, then toss to combine.
9. Serve the roasted chicken alongside the Sunflower Crisp salad.

Bring More Freshness and Flavor to Fall

Making fall meals memorable doesn’t require complicated recipes or elaborate preparation. With a few seasonal ingredients, fresh flavors and convenient shortcuts, it’s easy to create delicious meals that bring everyone together.

Whether you’re planning a cozy weeknight dinner or hosting a casual fall gathering, the best meals are often the ones that leave more time to enjoy the people around your table. For more entertaining tips and recipe inspirations, visit freshexpress.com.