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Summer Survival Guide: Venomous Snakebite Edition

2018-08-13T09:45:00

(BPT) – Summer welcomes a return to favorite outdoor activities. Yet, along with fun in the sun comes some not-so-friendly creatures to be mindful of, namely venomous snakes. Just like us, snakes become more active when the temperatures rise, and with most snakebites taking place during the summer months,[i] it is especially important to know how to avoid and treat a snakebite before heading outdoors.

How to Handle a Snake Encounter

From rural hiking trails to even your own backyard, many people likely will come across a snake this summer. Of the different types of venomous snakes across the U.S., the most common venomous ones are North American Pit Vipers like rattlesnakes, water moccasins and copperheads.[ii] Since it may not be easy to tell if a snake is venomous or not, assume it is and continue to be careful, not stopping to touch or play with the snake, even if it appears dead. Take two giant steps backward to get out of its striking range. Snakes are wild animals — show the snake respect, and let it be.

Seeking Immediate Treatment for a Snakebite

If someone is bitten by a snake, act quickly and take it seriously, regardless of the type of snake or how symptoms initially present. Envenomation, the process through which venom is injected from the bite, is unpredictable. Symptoms can vary widely from patient to patient,[iii],iv with the impact felt in minutes for some cases and in hours for others.iii,[iv] Early and aggressive intervention is critical to gaining initial control over the spread of the venom — the longer the patient is exposed to venom, the greater the potential for long-term, potentially irreversible damage.

The DO’s and DON’Ts of Snakebite First Aid

To ensure the victim is treated as soon as possible, dial 911 immediately and transport them to the emergency department. At the hospital, a physician can quickly assess the situation and decide whether to administer a drug called CroFab®, the only FDA-approved treatment to treat all North American pit viper envenomations in adult and pediatric patients.

In addition to seeking medical attention, people can help the victim by keeping the bite area raised, as well as removing the victim’s jewelry and tight-fighting clothes. Another important reminder: Stay calm, both as the victim and their support! Ensuring the victim remains as still as possible will prevent their heart rate from increasing and speeding up the rate at which the venom spreads.

Surprisingly, commonly sought home remedies for bites — applying tourniquets, ice packs, incisions or suction to the site of the bite — end up causing more harm than good.[v] Capturing and killing the snake to bring to the hospital will only lead to potentially more dangerous interaction with the snake.

“There are no particularly game-changing first aid measures like in the old cowboy movies,” says Dr. William Banner, MD, PhD, Medical Director of the Oklahoma Poison Control Center and Clinical Professor of Pharmacy, at the Oklahoma University College of Pharmacy in Oklahoma City. “The cornerstone of venomous snakebite treatment is antivenom and supportive care. CroFab® has been shown to halt the local effects of the bite, including the immediate source of the pain, while resolving other systemic and hematologic effects, like nausea, dizziness and bleeding.[vi],[vii] Seek medical attention as soon as possible, as a snakebite can have serious consequences, which could include life-threatening conditions.”

To remember these tips as you are on the move this summer, the SnakeBite911 App (for iPhone and Android devices) provides access to useful information, from snake safety and basic pit-viper-bite first aid, to bite management and treatment in the emergency room.

What is the most important information I should know about CROFAB?

CROFAB is an antivenom used in an emergency situation to reverse the effects of the venom from a pit viper snake bite.

  • Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience unusual bruising or bleeding (such as nosebleeds, excessive bleeding after brushing teeth, the appearance of blood in stools or urine, excessive menstrual bleeding, any small purple or red spots on your skin, excessive bruising or persistent oozing from superficial injuries) after hospital discharge. Such bruising or bleeding may occur for up to 1 week or longer following initial treatment.
  • Allergic reactions can happen upon use of the drug and can be severe (anaphylaxis).
  • Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any signs and symptoms of delayed allergic reactions or serum sickness (such as rash, itching, hives after hospital discharge).
  • Patients allergic to papain, chymopapain, papaya extracts, or bromelain (pineapple enzyme), may react to CROFAB.

What is CROFAB?

  • CROFAB is a prescription medicine used for the emergency treatment of a pit viper snake bite. This includes rattlesnakes, copperheads and cottonmouths/water moccasins.
  • CROFAB is given into the vein as an infusion. The dose is based on the physician’s evaluation of the severity of the patient’s reaction to the snake bite.

Who should not receive CROFAB?

CROFAB should not be administered to patients with a known history of allergic reaction (hypersensitivity) to any of its components, or to papaya or papain unless the benefits outweigh the risks and appropriate management for severe allergic reactions (anaphylactic reactions) is readily available.

What should I tell my healthcare provider before receiving CROFAB?

Before receiving CROFAB, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:

  • Are allergic to papain, chymopapain, papaya extracts, or bromelain (pineapple enzyme). People who are allergic to these may react to CROFAB.
  • Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. It is not known if CROFAB can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman or can affect reproduction capacity. It should be given to a pregnant woman only if clearly needed. CROFAB contains a small amount of mercury in the form of ethyl mercury from thimerosal. While there are limited data on administration of ethyl mercury to pregnant women, high and acute doses of methyl mercury have been associated with nervous system and kidney toxicities.
  • Are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if CROFAB passes into human breast milk.

Tell your healthcare provider about the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins and herbal supplements.

What are the possible side effects of CROFAB?

CROFAB can cause serious side effects.

  • The most common side effects are hives, rash, nausea, itching and back pain
  • Allergic reaction (severe hives and a severe rash and itching) has occurred following treatment
  • Recurrent bleeding due to the snake venom requiring additional treatment may occur after discharge from the hospital

These are not all of the possible side effects of CROFAB. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.


[i] Seifert SA, Boyer LV, Benson BE, Rogers J. AAPCC-database characterization of native U.S. venomous snake exposures, 2001 – 2005. Clinical Toxicology (Phila), 2009;47(4):327 – 335

[ii] Seifert, S. A., White, J., & Currie, B. J. (2011, December). Commentary: Pressure Bandaging for North American Snake Bite? No! The Journal of Medical Toxicology, 324-326.

[iii] Dart RC, Hurlbut KM, Garcia R, Boren J. Validation of a severity score for the assessment of crotalid snakebite. Ann Emerg Med. 1996;27(3):321-326.

[iv] Gold BS, Barish RA, Dart RC. North American snake envenomation: diagnosis, treatment and management. Emerg Med Clin North Am. 2004;22(2):423-443.

[v] “Snakes.” American College of Medical Toxicology, www.acmt.net/Snakes.html#Snakes8.

[vi] CroFab® [prescribing information]. BTG International Inc; May 2017. 2. Data on file. Conshohocken, PA; BTG International Inc. 2015.

[vii] Dart RC, Seifert SA, Boyer LV, et al. A randomized multicenter trial of crotalinae polyvalent immune Fab (ovine) antivenom for the treatment for crotaline snakebite in the United States. Arch Intern Med. 2001;161(16):2030-2036.


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6 smart tips for back-to-school success

2018-08-13T12:01:00

(BPT) – The forecast for this year’s back-to-school season is looking good! Taking a little bit of time to prepare now will help to set the kids up for success all year long, and ease everyone’s nerves. Here are six tips for parents to help ensure a smooth transition back to school and a new year full of unforgettable memories.

1. Don’t let the snooze button rule!

It’s easy for kids to fall out of their typical routines during the lazy days of summer, but you can work out any sleep issues ahead of time by adjusting your child’s schedule well before the first day of school. This could mean changing bed and wake times, having meals earlier in the day, and limiting screen time at night. This way, it will be easier for your kids to get up and going on the first day of school!

2. Germ-proof their backpacks and lunch bags

Sharing is caring, except when it comes to germs. Help kids keep germs at bay and their hands tidy by packing hand wipes in their backpack and lunch bags. This could be the difference between peanut butter smeared assignments or staying home sick for a week! Wet Ones® Hand Wipes are a portable way to wipe off dirt and messes from hands, and kill 99.99 percent of germs. Plus, they come in two fragrances, Fresh and Citrus Scent, to encourage kids to keep those fingers squeaky clean.

3. Turn classmates into playmates

Keep the fun summer vibes going by arranging a few playdates with fellow classmates before school starts. Go one step further and request the class list from the teacher ahead of time to try to connect with new classmates that your children will be spending the upcoming year with. This will help build social bonds and boost the classroom community before school even starts.

4. Back-to-school starts before the first day

Your child’s school probably has an open house or back-to-school event before the first day. Make it a priority for you and your kid to attend these events as it’s a great way to build excitement! Students get to meet their teacher, see their locker, and find out where they’ll be sitting. Since they’ll know what to expect in advance, they’ll be ready for the big first day back. If you’re busy or out of town this day, reach out to the teacher to see if you can come in at a different time.

5. Get back in school spirit

B-A-C-K T-O S-C-H-O-O-L, what does that spell? Messes, messes, everywhere! Although it’s great to drum up school spirit by cheering on your favorite fall sports, you’ll also be dealing with the snack aftermath. Whether it’s popcorn on the bleachers or ice cream after practice, be ready for any unexpected messes the event may bring by having Wet Ones® Hand Wipes on hand. Wet Ones® come in 3 convenient sizes (travel packs, individually wrapped, and canisters) so stash them in the car, your purse, or your child’s duffle bag for a fresh, clean start anywhere. They’re easy to pack whether it’s for a big match or a fall cookout. Visit WetOnesGetaway.com for an exclusive Ibotta offer to stock up on Wet Ones® for all your fall activities.

6. Ward off the back-to-school scaries

Before school starts, make a point to talk to your kids about how they’re feeling about heading back to the classroom. Are they excited, worried, nervous? And why? Have an open, empathetic conversation and share how you felt when you were young going back to school, so they know it’s normal to have a mix of emotions. Then figure out a plan for any negative feelings so your child is mentally prepared for a great first day back.


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Cancer care costs on the rise: How to get help

2018-08-13T14:01:00

(BPT) – Cancer patients face skyrocketing costs for their treatment, which adds to the stress of a cancer diagnosis and living with a disease. As an unapologetically patients-first organization, The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) is finding ways to lessen the burden. “When cancer patients are fighting for their life, the last thing they need is financial distress,” says Gwen Nichols, M.D., LLS chief medical officer. “The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society puts patients at the forefront, advocating for financial relief and offering solutions.”

Take advantage of available resources.

Nichols suggests a number of resources to assist with expenses related to treatment, such as:

* Negotiate with healthcare providers to reduce medical fees or adjust the payment schedule in cases of financial hardship.

* Apply for grants and financial aid from employers, labor unions, community service agencies, religious and fraternal groups or organizations such as LLS.

* Form a committee of volunteers to conduct fundraising events, sales, raffles, canister collections or letter-writing and publicity campaigns.

* Cash in benefits from life insurance policies through life insurance loans or accelerated benefits, which can provide cash payouts to seriously ill policyholders.

As the cost of care rises, patients need up-to-date information and support to help navigate their complex financial challenges. The LLS Information Specialists are social workers and nurses who work one-on-one with blood cancer patients, connecting them to a variety of free services and resources, including:

* Financial support — Assistance with the cost of treatment, transportation and daily expenses.

* Co-pay assistance — Help for eligible patients to pay for prescription drug co-pays and health insurance premiums.

* Clinical trial navigation — LLS educates patients about the availability of appropriate clinical trials for patients.

Be an advocate for change.

Your voice is valuable. Advocating for yourself or a loved one with cancer can help shape discussions about the cost of care. The LLS Office of Public Policy is charged with pursuing LLS’ goal to find cures and ensure access to treatments for blood cancer patients through advocacy aimed at governmental decision makers. You might be interested in advocating for policies that can provide additional benefits and protections for people who have cancer, or you might want to support policies that promote faster progress toward cures.

Cancer survivor and LLS advocate Paul O’Hara has been advocating on behalf of cancer patients since he was personally affected by the debilitating cost of care when he was diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic leukemia in 2009. “Legislators didn’t understand what it was like to make a decision between medicine you need to survive and your mortgage or electric bill,” says O’Hara. “Seeing lawmakers ‘get it’ when I shared my story with them made me realize I wasn’t just speaking for my family, but for all survivors.”

To find out more about advocating for policy changes at the state and federal level, contact LLS Advocacy at advocacy@LLS.org or visit www.LLS.org/advocacy.


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Laugh, learn and lunch: Tips for bonding with kids over cooking

2018-08-13T12:31:00

(BPT) – Cooking with your kids is just plain fun. Everyone likes good food, and being in the kitchen offers an excellent opportunity to work together toward one common (and hopefully delicious) goal. And the added benefit, of course, is that your kids can learn to follow directions, are exposed to healthier food choices, brush up on their math skills, find creativity and gain a solid sense of accomplishment.

“Getting kids into the kitchen to cook with you is a win-win situation, no matter how old they are and no matter what you make,” Tracey Seaman, author of “Real Food for Healthy Kids,” recently advised on food site Epicurious.com. “You will have the opportunity to foster a greater sense of intimacy between you and your child. Cooking together strengthens feelings of responsibility and being a valued member of the team will form a lifetime of good memories and help to strengthen bonds.”

Consider these suggestions as you get ready to cook up a storm with your child.

* Expect messiness. As young kids brush up on motor skills while measuring and mixing, spills, stains and a little waste will be the norm. Dress in old clothes, wear aprons and make a lesson of the adage, “Good cooks clean up after themselves.”

* Choose fast and easy options. At least initially, select simple recipes. UNCLE BEN’S READY RICE(R) is a known family favorite, offering up perfectly cooked rice in just 90 seconds and providing a quick base for a number of global cuisine choices. Consider the easy and tasty recipe below or see beginners.unclebens.com for other options.

* Experience trumps outcome. Some projects may not come out as planned, presenting the opportunity to teach your child to deal with (and rebound from) disappointment. Share a laugh together, discuss what may have gone wrong and try again next time.

* Don’t be afraid to experiment. Does your child want to try a new flavor combination or cooking technique? Bring it on, perhaps doling out a small portion of a family-sized dish with which to pursue his idea. That’s how new and better recipes are discovered.

* Keep the conversation flowing. Something about focusing your attention on a shared task can make it easier to talk about subjects that might seem forced or awkward in other settings. As you prepare food together, use the time to casually ask your kids about their thoughts, feelings and life in general, taking time to listen without judgment. They may appreciate the chance to share, and you may be surprised what you learn.

* Bring some celebrity power into the kitchen. Encourage healthy eating by asking your kids to join you on Team FNV (fruits ‘n’ veggies). Show off the celebrity roster on fnv.com/team with all the superstars who love their fruits and veggies. Be sure to post a photo using #TeamFNV to share your favorite fruit or veggie with the team.

Are you already bonding with your children over cooking? Consider entering the BEN’S BEGINNERS(TM) contest sponsored by UNCLE BEN’S(R). The annual initiative invites families with kids in K-8th grade to submit photos of themselves preparing a rice-based dish to beginners.unclebens.com. Contestants vie for the chance to win $15,000 for their families and $30,000 for school cafeteria makeovers.

Sweet and Spicy Chicken Kebabs with Rice

Makes 4 servings. Prep time: 15 minutes. Cook: 15 minutes.

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

1/8 teaspoon black pepper

1 tablespoon lime juice

1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1 package UNCLE BEN’S READY RICE(R) Garden Vegetable

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast cut into 32 chunks

1 medium red pepper, seeded and cut into 1-inch pieces

1 small red onion, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces

1 cup fresh pineapple cut into 1-inch chunks

Vegetarian option: Replace chicken with broccoli florets and yellow squash

Directions:

Prepare your grill, soaking wooden skewers for at least 10 minutes.

Combine the first 6 ingredients in a large bowl, then add the chicken, bell pepper and onion. Cover and let sit 10 minutes.

Skewer the pineapple, lightly spray with cooking spray, grill 3 minutes on each side, then remove from heat.

Skewer the chicken, bell pepper and onion, spray with cooking spray and grill 10 minutes on each side (or until done).

Remove the pineapple from the skewer, then chop it coarsely and add it to the rice you’ve prepared according to package directions. Serve with kebabs.


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Tips to pass your credit score with flying colors while in college

2018-08-13T07:01:02

(BPT) – No one ever said that college was cheap. In fact, many of the largest expenses have nothing to do with tuition — and no, we’re not talking about pizza.

Everything is expensive and the financial choices students make during these years will impact the rest of their lives. That’s why it pays to have a plan for the upcoming year and thereafter, both academically and financially.

Before you or your student heads off to college this semester, keep these tips from VantageScore Solutions in mind.

1. Be smart with loan applications

Student loans are a college mainstay but if they are handled improperly, that could hinder your financial future. In most cases, your applications for student loans will have only a limited impact on your credit score, but to be safe, learn all you can about any loan before applying for it. And once you do apply, consolidate your applications in the same two-week time frame to minimize any negative impact. Consolidating your applications is important because the algorithms that calculate your credit score will view that additional activity favorably as an indication that you were shopping for the best rate and account.

2. Your textbook choices could make a difference

Does buying or renting your textbooks really matter to your credit score? In short, it can. Failure to return a rented textbook or even returning it late can lead the lender to send the account to collections. If your credit report shows an account sent to collections, that item could have a negative impact on your credit score. To prevent this, either buy your books if you can or if you choose to rent, be sure to return the books on time. The ramifications of a late return could be much more severe than you would expect.

3. Build your credit history smartly

If you’re 18 and over, every college transaction is a chance to build and enhance your credit history and you should treat them as such. Pay your bills on time, especially those with your name on them, such as utilities. Limit yourself to a single credit card, don’t miss payments and avoid maxing it out. You should also try to pay off the entire balance each month to make sure your money goes to good use and you don’t waste it on interest payments.

4. Save money wherever you can

Paying those bills off will be a lot easier to do if you have the money. Making sure that you have sufficient funds starts with you setting a budget and making smart financial decisions around campus. When you set a budget for yourself make sure this budget is based on your net income (what you bring home after taxes) rather than your gross income (what you earn before taxes). This will give you a more accurate understanding of the money you have to spend. To support this budget you can also serve as a resident adviser (RA) to earn extra money and/or free room and board. And if you’re not an RA, don’t be afraid to have a roommate and to buy used books or furniture. Finally, cut down on unnecessary dining experiences by eating at home when you can. It may not be as exciting, but you’ll be thankful for the extra money.

5. Realize the decisions you make will impact your future

In most cases, the student loans you had taken out will start payments when you leave college. You needed those loans to pay your tuition bills, but they can now quickly damage your credit score if you miss a payment. Be mindful of your expenses — current and ongoing — and pay every bill in full and as quickly as you can. The sooner your loans are paid off, the sooner you can put that money toward the other things that the world after college has to offer.


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3 tire safety tips for end of summer

2018-08-13T09:01:00

(BPT) – With the final days of summer upon us, now is the time to spend a few extra minutes performing a tire safety check. Here are three easy steps to ensure your tires will be ready to handle the season change and keep you and your family safe year-round.

Stay on top of your tire pressure.

Tire blowout season runs from early summer through October and both under-inflation and over-inflation can cause a tire to blow out. High outside temperatures cause the air inside tires to expand quickly and can cause over-inflation, leading to premature wear and tear or blowouts. It’s also important to not let air out of your tires while they are hot, as this could leave you with an equally dangerous problem: under-inflation.

Checking tire pressure regularly by hand or taking it to a dealership for monitoring can help prevent a tire blowout. Looking at your vehicle’s manufacturers sticker inside the driver’s side of the door or console will tell you the recommended pressure for your vehicle, and some vehicles will alert you of a change in pressure through its tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS). TPMS symbols do not specify which tire needs attention, so if you’re driving when this happens, be sure to pull over to check the pressure of each tire.

Not only does checking your tire pressure prevent blowouts, it can also extend the average life of a tire by 4,700 miles and save you as much as 11 cents per gallon on gas, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Check your tire tread depth.

After a long summer of family road trips, you will need to determine if your summer tires have worn out. While obvious signs of damage such as cracks, splits and punctures can help drivers identify a problem, it’s also important to check tire tread depth on a monthly basis. If your tires are already worn down or fall below the recommended tread depth level, they may not provide the traction needed to make quick stops or could cause you to hydroplane while driving.

An easy way to check your tire pressure is to insert the edge of a penny in each large groove of a tire, with Lincoln diving in headfirst. If the top of Lincoln’s head is visible (not covered by tread), it is time to replace your tire. If his head is only slightly covered, you should still strongly consider purchasing new tires. Remember that tires depend on their treads to grip, so the deeper the tread, the better the tire will be in both rain and snow as fall approaches.

Know what questions to ask when buying new tires.

Once you decide it is in fact time to invest in new tires, you should know the right questions to ask. The answers will vary depending on the region you live in and the type of weather it has. In many places driving on summer tires into the fall and winter will be unsafe. All-season tires are created to handle a wide variety of road conditions, while winter tires are better geared toward deep snows. If you are interested in the ability to drive both on- and off-road regularly, all-terrain tires may be the best option.

Additionally, asking how the tires are rated and what that rating means will tell you how long the tire tread is expected to last. The traction grade communicates the ability of the tire to halt within a shorter distance and the temperature grade lets you know how the tire will resist heat.

No matter what type of tire you choose, changing weather and road conditions means your tires need to be at their top performance to keep you and your family safe. Now is the time to inspect your tires and invest in new ones before challenging weather strikes and tire inventories start to dwindle. For those willing to beat the rush, USAA is partnering with Goodyear to offer its members a discount on a new set of tires now through Oct. 30. The 25 percent discount applies to any USAA member purchasing tires on Goodyear.com, and can only be accessed from the “My Vehicles” section on USAA.com or the USAA mobile app.


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Switching gears and succeeding: Inspiration to find your next career

2018-08-13T07:01:02

(BPT) – It’s never too late to feed your passion and discover a new career. Take, for example, Julia Child, who left OSS, the forerunner of the CIA, to become a chef; Sara Blakely, a door-to-door sales woman who went on to create Spanx; and Andrea Bocelli, a former attorney who left the courtroom for the stage to become a world-renowned singer.

While most of us might not go from spy to famed chef, there are endless opportunities to switch gears and find success. Focusing on one career in a lifetime is a concept of the past. According to several reports, Gen Xers and millennials tend to change jobs and careers more often than prior generations. Additionally, 2015 and 2016 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics show that 6.2 million workers changed occupation groups.

New technology and flexible educational options make a career shift easier than ever, even in the legal field. Online law schools can help facilitate one’s desire to change careers, especially while working. Two attorneys who earned Juris Doctor (JD) degrees from Concord Law School at Purdue University Global, the nation’s first fully online law school, share their stories, their decisions to go back to school and what inspired them to make a career change.*

Entrepreneur With A License To Practice

Jeanilou Grace Maschhoff, a 2009 graduate, owned a talent management and entertainment consulting firm before making the switch to law. To fuel her company’s growth, she wanted to gain more business and legal knowledge; however, as a full-time working mom with few geographically accessible brick-and-mortar law schools, she had to get creative with her legal education.

“If a legal career calls to you or seems like something you want to follow, think outside the traditional path,” said Maschhoff. “I initially thought I had to do things the conventional way, but with technology and flexibility, there’s a whole new frontier to pursue law.”

Maschhoff’s creative thinking led her to an online law school. After completing her Juris Doctor degree online at Concord Law School, Maschhoff leveraged her knowledge in entertainment and worked with mentors through Concord’s incubator program to launch her own virtual law firm.

Today, her practice focuses on the beauty, fashion and fitness industries, helping those in her hometown of Southern California while living an ocean away. She’s dedicated to helping small-business owners and “mompreneurs” like her make their business ideas a reality. Using her expertise to help what she calls “CEOs of companies and households,” she counsels on an array of business and family matters.

“We’re seeing many law school graduates, like Jeanilou, move toward virtual law firms, blending their work experience with distance learning and technology to serve clients in innovative ways,” said Martin Pritikin, dean of Concord Law School at Purdue University Global. “Concord’s incubator program is designed to help people like Jeanilou break barriers and open new doors.”

Making the decision to pursue a new career later in life is the first step; but once complete, opening a business or law firm is another challenge that can seem daunting at first.“Don’t think that you have to have everything done and in place to get started,” said Maschhoff. “It’s OK to start simple. People used to spend so much time and capital getting a physical space, but today there are so many options. Just do one small thing to bring your passion to life, and it will happen.”

Process Engineer Turned Legal Consumer Guardian

In Michigan, attorney Keith Altman (JD ‘08) is recognized for taking on social media giants Twitter, Facebook and YouTube on behalf of people killed in terrorist attacks in San Bernardino, Dallas, Orlando, Barcelona, Paris, Istanbul and Nice. His expertise in complex litigation started with a degree in astrophysics and a job as a process engineer, where he honed his ability to manage and assess enormous amounts of data and documents.

Altman’s legal path started when he managed document libraries and databases for tobacco and pharmaceutical litigation specialists. His extensive knowledge and experience shifted his career path to become a testifying expert in pharmaceutical safety issues. With an overwhelming passion to protect consumers, Altman knew he wanted to take the next step and become a lawyer. However, his job kept him on the road 120 days each year.

“Concord Law School’s top-notch professors, reasonable cost and flexibility to take time off made it the only option for me,” said Altman. “I continued working while at law school, allowing me to closely link my expertise with the law — a powerful combination and differentiator for new lawyers.”

Altman encourages newly minted lawyers to find their niche and leverage it to fast-track their success. He explained, “Take advantage of your business experience and maturity, and use that in conjunction with a law degree to bring something unique and valuable that will jumpstart the next chapter of your career.”

Taking The Leap

Like many students at Concord Law School, Altman and Maschhoff have unique backgrounds, a wealth of knowledge and a distinct outlook for their future. The online school’s non-traditional path provided the flexibility, thought-provoking curriculum, and career support they needed to take the leap and shift their careers. They both see endless possibilities ahead and encourage others to follow their paths to find fulfilling new professions.

For those considering a new career in the legal industry, please head to www.concordlawschool.edu for more information on their online law degree programs.

For comprehensive consumer information, visit www.ConcordLawSchool.edu/About-Concord-Law-School/Accreditation. Concord Law School cannot guarantee employment or career advancement. These testimonials were obtained by Concord Law School. The views and opinions expressed are those of the individual; student experiences may vary.

* Note that JD program graduates do not qualify to take the bar exam or to be admitted to practice law in jurisdictions outside of California without additional experience, education, or petition.


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4 ways to use technology to simplify your home buying process

2018-08-13T09:01:00

(BPT) – While spring is typically the busiest period in real estate, particularly for families looking to get in to a new home before the school year starts, the fall months have become increasingly active for those who have more flexibility or are looking for a good deal.

With increased competition in many cities around the country, finding ways to simplify the home buying process while saving money is top of mind for potential home buyers. Many consumers are seeking real estate brokerages that make the home buying process less stressful by providing access to tech-based tools, data and the guidance of smart, local agents.

“Buying a home is typically the most expensive purchase most people will make, and people are choosing brokerages that offer the right tools and data to help inform their decisions and make the process more efficient,” said Dario Cardile, Vice President, Growth Marketing at Owners.com. “Savvy home buyers are utilizing technology and data to inform their home search, but are also demonstrating that they value working with an expert local agent who can offer on-the-ground expertise and help them get the best deal.”

Cardile offers these tips for ways potential home buyers can utilize technology to simplify the real estate process.

* Ensure that your finances are in order. To purchase the home of your dreams you’ll need the right loan. So before you begin your search, request a free annual copy of your credit report from the government-authorized AnnualCreditReport.com. Pay attention to the scores in your report, as the better your scores, the more likely you are to receive favorable terms and interest rates on your loan.

* Narrow your housing search. Searching for homes on the internet is easy, but finding the one that is just right for you can be more difficult. Fortunately, Owners.com can help, as it leverages data and technology to connect you to homes matching your personal preferences and ranks those homes based on the features you highlight as being most important. The platform also notifies you of regular updates on the properties of your interest, and suggests similar properties based on your preferences. You will have access to local listings from the Multiple Listing Service and for-sale-by-owner properties, so you don’t miss out on a potential home.

* Explore the area before you get there. Whether it’s a local dog park, fun shops to visit on the weekend or a quaint bistro for a night out, your neighborhood needs extend beyond the walls of your home. Fortunately, hyper localized data such as walk scores, neighborhood and school information and modern mapping solutions can give you insights into the entire community before you even start your search. And don’t be afraid to look up area attractions on social media and read some reviews. It’s a great way to learn what everyone is saying about your potential neighborhood.

* Find the right agent. A great real estate agent can help you save time and money in the real estate process. While many consumers are self-informing their search with online data, a recent survey from Owners.com of more than 1,000 recent home buyers nationwide found that the majority (83 percent) worked with an agent to purchase their home. The full service website and mobile app make it easy to find a local agent that’s right for you, as well as provide you with the digital tools to make the process less stressful. An expert local agent can provide inside knowledge of the property and community, on-the-ground expertise, and help you strike the best deal to get into your dream home.

Finding the best home for you

The fall real estate market won’t wait for you, so start your planning now and begin your housing search with the power of technology at your fingertips. With you, your agent and technology working hand in hand, your dream house is there for the taking.


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4 natural ways to support your child this school year

2018-08-12T07:01:01

(BPT) – Busy school nights can make your house feel like a zoo. Between commutes, sports practices and dinner plans, it feels like everyone is always either on the go or hustling to get there.

Your child may not be aware of it, but you can see it: They’re feeling the pressures of school. Whatever their age, they are juggling multiple things to get through their school day, from keeping up with classroom lessons to navigating playground politics.

The school year can certainly inspire its share of frantic feelings. At home, you can try some of these simple, nature-inspired approaches to make your child feel more grounded, centered and ready to learn.

Spend more time in nature: The more time spent outdoors, the better, whether it’s in the backyard or at the neighborhood park. Time spent outdoors reduces stress in children, plus it promotes more exercise and movement, according to the Child Mind Institute. Where you can, try to work in extra minutes of fresh air time. In the morning, leave a few minutes early for the bus stop or, even better, try walking or biking to school on nice days. After school, send them outdoors to play in the yard and take evening walks as a family.

Practice mindful parenting: After a busy day, you have a long to-do list, from getting dinner on the table, to juggling sports practices with homework time. In the midst of these crazy evenings, remember when it comes right down to it, kids crave attention from and interaction with their parents. Make sure you hit pause and take time for face-to-face conversations. When they have something on their minds and you show that you care and want to listen, they’ll feel supported. Plus, one-on-one time is just a great way to improve the parent-child bond.

Protect their sleep schedule: No doubt about it, kids need to get their rest. Sleep is essential for their mental and physical development, but it also lets them start the day with fresh minds that are ready to focus on school. For kids who are between the ages of 6 and 13, the National Sleep Foundation says a good range is 9 to 11 hours a night. To make sure they’re getting enough, have them go to bed at the same time each night, and make it a rule to power down all devices and screens an hour before.

Inspire a balanced mindset with essential oils: To help your kids incorporate balance and calm in the middle of the school day, pack some personal care items that incorporate essential oils. Aura Cacia’s Chill Pill Roll-On has a special blend of pure lavender and sweet orange essential oils in an apricot kernel base to inspire balance and calm. All they have to do is roll a bit on their temples or wrists, take a moment to breathe deeply, and they’ll feel ready to take on the next task.

Or, create a boosting study space by diffusing rosemary in the room. The herbal, camphorous aroma of rosemary is traditionally associated with memory, recollections and nostalgia, so is a great adjunct to reading and studying.

A quick tip is to dispense 10 to 18 drops of rosemary essential oil on a cotton ball set in a dish.

For more ideas and inspiration, look for community recipes on auracacia.com/community/recipes.


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Nothing to Hide: Overcoming Plaque Psoriasis

2018-08-10T11:55:00

(BPT) – Like many psoriasis patients, Kim Knight has tried numerous treatment options over the years to help reduce the red, flaky patches covering the skin on her elbows, hands, knees and scalp. Unlike many people with psoriasis, however, she is lucky enough to work in a dermatology office as a Superficial Radiation Technology Specialist, where she is able to receive the direct advice and support of her office’s healthcare providers.

“I’ve had psoriasis for more than two decades, and growing up in the south near the beach meant I always had to cover up to avoid people staring at me or asking questions,” Kim said. “But working in the dermatology industry and alongside my doctor allows me to get first-hand knowledge on innovative research and access to new treatment options to help my psoriasis.”

Plaque psoriasis is the most common type of psoriasis, a chronic, non-contagious skin disease that alters the life cycle of skin cells, causing them to build up rapidly on the surface of the skin.1,2,3 Depending on the severity of the psoriasis and type, the condition can be treated with a topical treatment, oral drug, or injectable.4 August is Psoriasis Awareness Month, helping to bring attention to the 7.5 million Americans that have psoriasis.5

“We’ve used a range of treatments through the years for Kim’s psoriasis, but found their effects wore off over time,” said Douglas DiRuggiero, physician assistant, in Rome and Cartersville, GA. “During Kim’s most recent flare up, I recommended she try SILIQ, since it works differently than other treatments by blocking a specific group of proteins at the site of inflammation.”6

SILIQ™ (brodalumab) injection is a prescription medicine used to treat adults with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis who may benefit from injections or pills (systemic therapy) or phototherapy (treatment using ultraviolet light treatment), and who have tried other systemic therapies that didn’t work or stopped working.6 It is not known whether SILIQ is safe and effective in children.

Since being treated with SILIQ, Kim’s psoriasis is under control, and she feels less itching and burning. Individual results may vary.

“It’s been so nice to be able to take trips to the beach with my husband and son without having to cover up. I’m so happy to be able to wear short-sleeves and tank tops this summer!” said Kim.

If you have psoriasis, talk to your health care provider about potential treatment options. For more information about SILIQ, visit www.siliq.com.

Important Safety Information

What is SILIQ?

SILIQTM injection is a prescription medicine used to treat adults with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis:

  • who may benefit from injections or pills (systemic therapy) or phototherapy (treatment using ultraviolet light treatment)

and

  • who have tried another systemic therapy that didn’t work or stopped working

It is not known if SILIQ is safe and effective in children.

What is the most important information I should know about SILIQ?

Suicidal thoughts or behavior: Some patients taking SILIQ have had suicidal thoughts or ended their own lives. This risk is higher if you have a history of suicidal thoughts or depression. It is not known if SILIQ causes these thoughts or actions.

Get medical help right away if you or a family member notices that you have any of the following symptoms:

  • new or worsening depression, anxiety, or mood problems
  • thoughts of suicide, dying, or hurting yourself
  • attempt to commit suicide, or acting on dangerous impulses
  • other unusual changes in your behavior or mood

Your healthcare provider will give you a SILIQ patient/wallet card about symptoms that need medical attention right away. Carry the card with you during treatment with SILIQ and show it to all of your healthcare providers.

Serious Infections: SILIQ may lower the ability of your immune system to fight infections and may increase your risk of infections.

  • Your healthcare provider should check you for tuberculosis (TB) before starting treatment with SILIQ and may treat you for TB before starting SILIQ if you have TB or a history of it
  • You and your healthcare provider need to watch closely for signs and symptoms of infection during treatment with SILIQ, including fever, sweats, chills, shortness of breath, stomach issues, muscle aches, cough, sore throat or trouble swallowing, warm/red/painful skin sores, burning while urinating or more frequent urination

Who should not use SILIQ?

Do not use SILIQ if you have Crohn’s disease. Tell your healthcare provider if you develop diarrhea, bloody stools, stomach pain or cramping, sudden or uncontrollable bowel movements, loss of appetite, constipation, weight loss, fever or tiredness as these may be symptoms of Crohn’s disease.

Before starting SILIQ, tell your healthcare provider if you:

  • have a history of mental health problems, including suicidal thoughts, depression, anxiety, or mood problems
  • have an infection that does not go away or keeps coming back
  • have TB or have been in close contact with someone with TB
  • have recently received or are scheduled to receive an immunization (vaccine). You should avoid getting live vaccines while being treated with SILIQ
  • are or plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding or plan to do so. It is unknown if SILIQ can harm your unborn or newborn baby

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

How should I use SILIQ?

See the detailed “Instructions for Use” that come with your SILIQ for information on the right way to store, prepare, and give your SILIQ injections at home, and how to properly throw away (dispose of) used SILIQ prefilled syringes. Use SILIQ exactly as your healthcare provider tells you to use it.

What are possible side effects of SILIQ?

SILIQ may cause serious side effects. See “What is the most important information I should know about SILIQ?” and “Who should not take SILIQ?”

The most common side effects of SILIQ include: joint pain, muscle pain, headache, injection site reactions, tiredness, flu, diarrhea, low white blood cell count (neutropenia), mouth or throat pain, fungal infections of the skin, nausea.

Call your doctor for medical advice on side effects. You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to FDA at www.fda.gov/MedWatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Please click here for accompanying full Prescribing Information, including Boxed Warning about suicidal ideation and behavior, and Medication Guide.

Please click here for full Prescribing Information, including Medication Guide.

SILIQ is a trademark of Ortho Dermatologics’ affiliated entities.

References

  1. National Psoriasis Foundation. (2014). About Psoriasis. Retrieved from https://www.psoriasis.org/about-psoriasis. Accessed February 6, 2018.
  2. World Health Organization. (2016). Psoriasis. Retrieved from http://www.who.int/ncds/management/psoriasis/en/. Accessed February 6, 2018.
  3. Mayo Clinic. (2017). Psoriasis. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/psoriasis/symptoms-causes/syc-20355840. Accessed February 6, 2018.
  4. Informed Health Online. Cologne, Germany: Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG); 2006-. Psoriasis: Oral medications and injections. 2017 May 18. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK435704/. Accessed March 29, 2018.
  5. American Academy of Dermatology. Psoriasis: Who Gets and Causes. Retrieved from https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/scaly-skin/psoriasis#causes. Accessed March 30, 2018.
  6. SILIQ [prescribing information]. Bridgewater, NJ: Valeant Pharmaceuticals North America LLC.

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