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10 expert payment tips for a safe summer vacation

2024-07-24T07:01:00

(BPT) – This summer, people are traveling and spending more money than ever. According to the Mastercard Economics Institute’s Travel Trends 2024 report, an annual industry deep dive across 74 markets, there are a few key trends:

  • American wanderlust: A record-breaking 15.9 million Americans jetted off internationally in the first quarter of 2024 alone. For example, Japan welcomed over 3 million passenger arrivals in March 2024.
  • Global spending spree: The cruise and airline industries are experiencing a windfall, with nine out of the last 10 record-setting spending days occurring in 2024.
  • Taking much-deserved PTO: Tourists are savoring their getaways, extending their stays by an average of one extra day compared to pre-pandemic times. This trend is particularly strong for budget-friendly destinations.

But there are some individuals who never take a vacation: scammers. While people are spending, they’re waiting to pounce! As you plan your next trip abroad, follow these safety tips to protect your money before you go and while you’re away.

Booking your travel

1. Book on reputable websites

  • When booking your flights, hotels or experiences abroad, only interact with reputable, established vendors.
  • Before you snag yourself a deal, read the reviews and examine a site to ensure it is secure.
  • Make sure the company you are buying from has a phone number or physical mailing address that you can verify before you buy.

2. Use your own device and secure Wi-Fi networks

  • Never shop on a device you don’t own.
  • Make online purchases on your personal device where you have more control.
  • Keep your devices’ operating systems up to date. Those updates contain critical security updates that protect you from vulnerabilities.
  • Don’t shop or access your financial accounts through public Wi-Fi networks, such as coffee shops or airports. The same applies while you are traveling.
  • Keep in mind your information and financial accounts may be at risk if you use an unsecured network. Use your mobile data or better yet, wait until you can use your home network.

3. Know your rights

  • Check what travel benefits and insurance you have in place for your booking and while you are abroad, via your bank or your credit card provider.
  • Familiarize yourself with the chargeback process. This can help prepare you for when you find yourself in a tricky situation like fraudulent or unauthorized charges on your account, damaged or defective goods or incorrect charges.

Before you go

4. Protect your tech

  • Leverage Multi-Factor Authentication, which combines a unique passcode (that isn’t your address, birthday or phone number) and biometrics (such as face or fingerprint) to protect your online accounts, mobile phone and digital wallets.
  • With Multi-Factor Authentication, if one factor (like your username/password) is compromised, fraudsters won’t be able to meet the second authentication requirement (like a biometric or text code), ultimately stopping them from gaining access to your accounts.
  • Check your bank’s website for advice on travel and how to keep them informed of your plans.
  • Use a plug to charge your devices. USB and USB-Type C cables can transfer data, which could occur when you plug the cable in to a public USB/USB-Type C input. Using a traditional plug removes the risk of data transfer, charging your device in a secure way.

5. Back up to the cloud and carry hard copies

  • Set your phone or device so that data is backed up to the cloud.
  • If you lose your device, you will still be able to access your travel documentation.
  • As an extra precaution, carry hard copies of all your travel documents.

6. Know your card’s PIN and check contactless limits

  • The PIN assigned to your card is required at ATMs and at some terminals abroad.
  • Different countries also have limits on how much you can spend per contactless transaction.
  • Knowing your credit card and daily debit card limits and PINs can help make travel easier.

7. Set up account alerts

  • Setting up alerts can help you monitor your accounts easily and quickly identify transactions that you don’t recognize.
  • Should you suspect fraudulent activity, contact the financial institution that issued your card immediately.

While you’re traveling

8. Have multiple payment options

  • Keep an alternate form of payment in a different bag in case your wallet is lost or stolen.
  • Add your eligible debit and credit cards to a digital wallet so you can pay with your mobile device wherever digital payments are accepted in stores, online and in apps.

9. Don’t overshare

  • Avoid posting your location in real time or your travel agenda on social media.
  • Sharing these details allows potential thieves to keep track of where you are, making it easier for them to time a crime.
  • The same goes for your email out of office — be careful what personal details you share, as it could prove useful to fraudsters.

10. Report your lost card quickly

  • If your debit or credit card is lost or stolen while traveling, report it to your bank right away.
  • If you previously added your card to a digital wallet and you are still in possession of your device, your card issuer may be able to update your digital wallet with your new card information so that you can continue using it while you wait for your new card to arrive.

Following these travel tips can help ensure a safe holiday. Help is just a phone call away. Just dial the number on the back of your card or visit your issuer’s website.

For more information about Mastercard’s security benefits, visit Mastercard.US/EN-US/Get-Support/Safety-Security.html.

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Former firefighter builds home with new fire sprinkler system

2024-07-23T00:01:00

(BPT) – Jesse Faust originally became a firefighter and an EMT to help people. Then, in the summer of 2022, the unthinkable happened.

Faust was involved in a severe car accident that left him partially paralyzed and forced him into disability retirement. While the accident ended his firefighting career, it did not stifle his passion for educating the public about the critical need to maximize fire safety for their homes and, more importantly, for their families.

Through his many years of service, Faust saw firsthand the devastation fire can inflict on structures of all types and sizes. So, when his family decided to design and build a new home near Madison, Wisconsin, to accommodate Jesse’s needs, fire sprinklers were top of mind for their ability to confine a fire to a smaller space.

Why smoke alarms are not enough

Bill Sullivan serves as fire marshal for the City of Madison and chairperson of the Wisconsin Fire Sprinkler Coalition, an organization dedicated to breaking down barriers and educating communities about residential fire sprinkler systems.

With more than 30 years in fire safety, Sullivan is well aware that relatively few areas across the United States have code requirements or mandates for fire sprinklers in new or existing homes.

Of course, many American homes have smoke alarms for protection against fire, and Sullivan believes these familiar household devices are essential. Even so, they can’t provide the same high level of critical, life-saving protection as fire sprinklers.

“Smoke alarms are passive, and humans still have to react to that sound,” he explained. “Smoke alarms do not do anything if nobody’s home at the time. And if people or pets are in the house but unable to get out on their own and need assistance, the smoke alarm does not help.”

On the other hand, fire sprinklers are active systems that respond directly to extreme heat. “The fire sprinkler system is going to react and begin to flow water as soon as the temperature reaches a certain level at the sprinkler head,” stated Sullivan. “The sprinkler begins to put water on the fire to control it and potentially put it out — long before anybody has time to call 911 and for the fire department to respond.”

Faust can relate to concerns about people and pets unable to escape a fire on their own. “Being that I’m handicapped, and I don’t get around that well, fire sprinklers make a huge difference,” he said. “If I happen to not be in my wheelchair, I’m kind of confined to whatever particular space I’m in. So, really, sprinklers are almost a lifesaver for me.”

Fire sprinklers are worth considering

In 2023, there were 2,160 reported home fire fatalities throughout the United States, according to the U.S. Fire Administration. This is why organizations like the Wisconsin Fire Sprinkler Coalition work to show plumbers how they can easily add sprinklers to their service offerings.

The other equally important task involves educating the public about the benefits of installing a multipurpose fire sprinkler system that combines with the home’s cold-water plumbing.

Louie Van Den Bergh, a licensed plumber and owner of Van Den Bergh Plumbing in Mazomanie, Wisconsin, is a 24-year industry veteran who uses flexible PEX pipe when he works on remodels. However, the Faust residence marked his first time installing a PEX multipurpose system — or any home fire sprinkler system for that matter.

To prepare, Van Den Bergh’s team underwent four hours of online training through Uponor, the AquaSAFE™ multipurpose system provider. “You just follow along and take a test at the end of each training section,” he explained. “It was pretty easy.”

The manufacturer’s rep, Bill Panfil from Midwest Sales and Marketing, was on site to help Van Den Bergh lay out the project while offering helpful pointers and additional training. “I’m there to answer any questions that might come up,” Panfil said, “and to ensure the installation goes smoothly.”

The multipurpose system incorporates the sprinkler heads into the home’s cold-water supply lines. As a result, the same PEX pipe and expansion fittings that are used throughout the residence’s plumbing system provide a dual purpose.

The sprinkler head essentially becomes another plumbing fixture in the water supply line. Whenever someone in the home turns on a faucet or flushes a toilet, it confirms the fire sprinkler system is also operational.

“It’s a live system that is always moving fresh water through the home,” Panfil explained. “It uses the same pipe and connection system, so everything works flawlessly together.”

The multipurpose system in the Faust home is also covered by a 25-year PEX-a pipe and expansion fitting system warranty, offering added peace of mind.

Fire sprinkler close up during installation.

Fire sprinklers for forever homes

A common misconception about fire sprinklers is that they might leak or accidentally activate, causing considerable damage to the home. Faust dismisses such concerns as badly overstated.

“Would a homeowner fear installing a new toilet or sink?” he asked. “This system is using the same plumbing that is already in my house, so I’m not concerned about it leaking, just like I’m not concerned about my sink leaking. The sprinkler head is essentially just another termination point in the home, so there’s no more risk of leaks than a faucet.”

And now, with more people choosing to age in place, it begs the question: How can homeowners sustain a high level of comfort and safety as their mobility inevitably declines over time? As Faust can attest, unfortunately, such changes can come swiftly without warning.

“People have to think about the future if they’re building a house,” he said. “Today, you may be able to get out of your home easily. But in the future, maybe not.”

Faust admits that, as an active firefighter, he never seriously considered fire sprinklers a safety option for the home. “But here I am, just extremely fortunate to have this protection to show it to others so that they realize what’s possible.”

His recommendation? “If you have the means and are considering installing sprinklers, you should do it.”

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Stay connected in any emergency with portable power

2024-07-23T07:31:00

(BPT) – Extreme weather events cast shadows of worry, but modern power solutions can keep families safe and connected

Emergency preparedness is a practical necessity for every household, especially nowadays, as natural disasters hit harder and more often.

The first item on your preparedness checklist should be a well-stocked emergency kit that includes essentials like nonperishable food, water, first-aid supplies, flashlights and batteries. The second item should be a power supply to keep all your tech running at the time when you need it most.

While gas generators have traditionally served as the go-to solution for emergency power, they come with significant drawbacks. They’re noisy, emit harmful fumes, require fuel storage and can’t be used indoors. This is where portable power stations come in. These handy, compact alternatives offer a cleaner, quieter, more versatile option for keeping your devices charged and essential appliances running when the electricity goes down.

Portable power: Now more vital than ever

Recent years have seen a dramatic increase in extreme weather events, underscoring the critical importance of emergency preparedness. From record-breaking heatwaves to increasingly dangerous hurricane seasons to the arrival of “tornado clusters,” climate-driven disasters have not only torn apart landscapes and lives, they’ve exposed large holes in our power infrastructure. This makes access to electricity critical — for powering medical devices, preserving food, enabling communication and for heating or cooling.

“As extreme weather events become more frequent and severe, we’re seeing a rising demand for reliable, portable power solutions,” said Alfonso Chen, CMO at Ampace. “These portable solutions provide backup power for everything from smartphones to household appliances, strengthening the resilience of every household in the face of prolonged outages.”

A range of solutions to keep you safe

Just as technology constantly evolves, so must the modern emergency-preparedness kit. Beyond the essentials like water and first-aid supplies, experts at Ampace now strongly recommend including a portable power station as part of your family’s emergency plan. Today’s solutions go beyond simple backup power, offering multiple layers of protection to ensure reliability in any crisis situation.

Modern portable power stations are built to withstand the toughest conditions. They feature sturdy construction to handle rough conditions and weather-resistant batteries designed for outdoor use. These power stations are also smart. They have built-in safety systems that can detect and prevent potential issues before they become problems. Perhaps most impressively, portable power stations from premium brands such as Ampace can provide stable power output even when temperatures plummet to as low as -4°F.

Steady supply for essential electronics

Parents drinking coffee and little girl in the refridgerator while using Ampace device.

“Whether you’re dealing with a storm at home or exploring the great outdoors, staying connected and powered up is a top priority,” says Alfonso Chen at Ampace. “Portable power makes it easy to keep your smartphones, appliances and other electronics charged while on the go, ensuring constant connectivity and access to crucial information.”

Here are a few more reasons why having a portable power station like the Ampace Andes 1500 is more important than ever.

1: Large capacity. One of the most crucial considerations when selecting a portable power station is its power capacity, which determines how much electricity it can provide from a single charge. Large portable power stations with over 1000Wh can power most household appliances for several hours, making them ideal for off-grid living or back-up power during emergencies.

2: Fast charging. Cutting-edge portable power stations like the Andes 1500 can achieve a full charge in under an hour through wall charging, setting new benchmarks for efficiency, with flexible options to charge through solar panels or a car socket. This can save time when preparing for a trip, or when access to power is intermittent during emergencies. The Andes 1500 offers a superfast charging speed thanks to its A-Boost technology, going from zero to 100 percent charged in as little as 55 minutes — half the time of comparable power stations.

3: Multiple charging options. Modern portable power stations often feature multiple charging options, including wall outlets, solar panels and car sockets, ensuring users can recharge their devices in a variety of situations.

4: Longevity. The latest technology enables significantly extended lifespans, with some units capable of lasting through thousands of charging cycles. The Andes 1500 can run up to 6,000 cycles, twice that of comparable products.

5: Versatility. Many modern portable power stations can power a wide range of appliances, including those with power requirements as high as 3600W. This makes them suitable for various scenarios, from casual outdoor activities to more demanding applications during power outages.

Consumers should consider power stations that best fit their specific needs and circumstances. For example, options like the Andes 1500, Andes 600 Pro and Andes 300 offer different capacities and features to suit various requirements. Check out more about Ampace’s flagship portable power station Andes 1500 on Amazon and other models at ampacepower.com.

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Here are 7 strategies to save for retirement and college at the same time

2024-07-23T07:01:00

(BPT) – Saving for the future is a top financial priority for most people. If you have children, then saving for their college education may also be an important goal for you. Or, you may want to pursue an advanced degree yourself.

Putting away money to afford both retirement and higher education can be quite expensive. Many families face the challenge of balancing retirement and college savings.

Fortunately, you don’t have to make a choice between them. There are several smart strategies that can help you strike the right balance.

Start saving money early. The earlier you begin saving for both retirement and college, the easier it will feel to reach your goals.

Set clear savings priorities. Determine how much you can comfortably save for each goal. Your retirement generally should take precedence over savings for education expenses. Remember: Loans are available for college but not for retirement.

Make use of tax-advantaged accounts. Maximize contributions to qualified retirement accounts such as 401(k)s and IRAs. For education expenses, consider 529 plans or other college savings accounts, which can offer tax benefits in some states.

Automate regular savings deposits. Set up automatic contributions to both retirement and college savings accounts. You could set up direct deposits or 401(k)/TSP contributions from your paycheck, or automatic account transfers, to make the process of saving easy and painless. This ensures consistency and discipline in your savings strategy.

Adjust your contributions over time. As your financial situation evolves, revisit your savings plans. You might decide to change how much money you’re setting aside. Windfalls, pay raises or savings from reducing expenses can be opportunities to save more money toward your goals.

Involve others in education savings. Teach your children about the value of money by involving them in the college savings process. Encourage them to contribute a percentage of their part-time earnings or gift money to their accounts. This can help them appreciate what it takes to go to college. Additionally, let family members know you’ve set up a 529 plan and encourage them to contribute to it.

Explore financial assistance options. Look into scholarship opportunities, grants and financial aid options to reduce college costs. On the retirement side, see if your employer offers a matching contribution for qualified retirement accounts. An employer match can give a significant boost to your retirement savings.

By carefully planning, setting priorities and using tax-advantaged savings accounts, you can set aside money for your retirement and college education goals. And be sure to check out how Navy Federal Credit Union can help, with options to save for retirement and college.

Navy Federal is federally insured by NCUA.

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New study reveals what companies need to do to earn trust in the age of AI

2024-07-23T08:01:00

(BPT) – Although artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are groundbreaking technologies providing benefits to companies and consumers, they’ve also ushered in a new era of sophisticated tools that facilitate fraud. As businesses fight to keep up, they’re learning it’s often necessary to use those same AI and ML capabilities to defend against fraudsters.

The perceived risks from AI have increased fear and mistrust for the public, who rely on companies to safeguard them from fraud. In the 2024 Trust Index released by Telesign, nearly all Americans (87%) said they believe the companies they engage with are responsible for protecting their digital privacy, highlighting how vital digital trust is in today’s business environment. It also means that people are vulnerable if companies they engage with online don’t provide effective digital fraud protection.

AI and mistrust

With deepfakes, voice clones and increased language capabilities at their fingertips, today’s fraudsters can more easily fool many systems and customers. Telesign’s Trust Index revealed many Americans have strong concerns about the use of AI for a variety of purposes, from commercial fraud to election misinformation.

While consumers appreciate the idea of using AI for good, such as fighting misinformation, there’s a gap in their understanding of how online services they use daily employ this technology to protect them from fraud. In the Trust Index, 44% of respondents said they think AI and ML make no difference in their susceptibility to digital fraud, with only 34% being more likely to trust a company that uses AI/ML to protect them from fraud attacks.

In reality, Forbes Advisor reports that 51% of businesses use AI to help with cybersecurity and fraud management. In the near future, every business may need to fight AI with AI.

Here’s how criminals have been upping their fraud game using AI:

Phishing and social engineering

Gone are the obvious grammar errors of pre-AI phishing. Generative AI helps fraudsters easily correct mistakes, resulting in more convincing, harder-to-spot phishing attempts — which they can use to steal credentials, hijack accounts, infiltrate companies and lift customer data. Data from the year following ChatGPT’s launch showed a 1,265% increase in malicious phishing messages and a 967% increase in credential phishing.

It’s crucial for businesses to use advanced AI technology to detect signs of phishing and stop them in their tracks.

Fake accounts

The proliferation of fake accounts poses a significant threat to companies operating online. Individuals infiltrate online communities by creating fake accounts, wreaking havoc among legitimate users and tarnishing brand reputations.

A growing challenge closely associated with fake accounts is the emergence of deepfakes and voice clones. While technology firms are making strides in identifying, labeling and removing AI-generated images and videos from the digital landscape, not enough attention is paid to how the content is distributed — primarily via fake accounts and social media.

Businesses can help stop the spread of fake accounts by improving their identity verification processes to raise the bar in proving that all users are real.

How businesses can verify digital identities

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is an effective method companies need to use to its fullest to help protect and verify customer identities. To ensure MFA is employed correctly and consistently, training employees throughout entire enterprises about social engineering and phishing risks is crucial.

One way to ensure companies activate all the latest technologies to safeguard themselves and their customers is by partnering with digital identity leader Telesign, which provides Continuous Trust™ to global enterprises by connecting, protecting and defending their digital identities. The company’s powerful machine learning and extensive data science deliver identity risk recommendations to provide fraud protection, secure communications and enable the digital economy by helping companies and customers engage with confidence.

Telesign’s new Verify API is a simple, powerful tool for secure authentication to safeguard financial transactions, verify unknown users and prevent fraudulent activity. As traditional reliance on SMS for multi-factor authentication is becoming a vulnerability, Verify API provides a versatile authentication platform enabling businesses to seamlessly verify user identities across 7 channels: Silent Verify, Push Verify, SMS, WhatsApp, Viber, RCS and email. With a single integration, Verify API helps businesses effortlessly scale new authentication channels.

Multichannel authentication capability allows businesses to choose channels that work best for their customers, improving the customer experience and broadening their ability to authenticate customers globally — with fallback capabilities in case one preferred channel is unresponsive.

Best yet, Verify API facilitates fraud protection across the customer journey, safeguarding customer accounts by authenticating every interaction and defending against suspicious behavior. With verified sender IDs (across WhatsApp, RCS and Viber), businesses can work to prevent social engineering and phishing attacks at scale, delivering more protection and enhancing user experience — offering a win-win for businesses and their customers.

Download the full 2024 Trust Index or visit Telesign.com to learn more about solutions to protect consumers from digital fraud.

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How should EV drivers choose the right tires?

2024-07-22T12:11:00

(BPT) – Drivers have never been more charged up about electric vehicles, but there’s an important factor many don’t know about — choosing the right tires for EVs.

Electric vehicle sales in the United States doubled in 2023, according to J.D. Power. As a growing number of drivers enter the EV market, those consumers should also know that EVs come with unique challenges where the rubber meets the road.

Electric vehicles need tires that will help keep noise levels low. And their heavier weights and quick acceleration require tires that can withstand larger loads and more intense torque — all while delivering an efficient driving experience that gets the most out of each charge.

Global tiremaker Nokian Tyres has been testing tires on electric vehicles for more than a decade, and every tire they make comes with an Electric Fit marking that certifies it’s a seamless fit for EVs. As a leader in EV tire innovation, the company says drivers should look for the following four factors when choosing replacement tires that will help them get the most out of their EVs.

Weight

Electric vehicles are as much as 30% heavier than their internal combustion engine counterparts, according to The University of Tennessee’s Center for Transportation Research. Their heavy battery packs mean tires have to be sturdier.

The added weight can cause the wrong tires to stop too slowly, wear too quickly and struggle on challenging surfaces, such as rain or wintry precipitation. Tiremakers seek to account for the heavier load by constructing tires with heavier-duty materials and formulating rubber compounds to be more responsive to the road.

Noise

While EVs are making a lot of noise in the automotive market, their engines are virtually silent. The main sound drivers notice in the cabin is the noise of tires touching the road. Tire manufacturers seek to mitigate noise frequencies by using tread patterns, rubber compounds and materials that dampen sound waves.

Nokian Tyres inserts acoustic foam into its dedicated EV winter products, the Nokian Tyres Hakkapeliitta 10 EV and R5 EV. Other tiremakers are making similar strides to cut down on cabin noise and deliver a peaceful driving experience that matches the smooth and silent nature of EVs.

Torque

Electric vehicles are powerful — Car and Driver reports that many can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in fewer than five seconds. That extra torque presents an extra challenge to tires, since rapid changes in speed can cause them to wear more quickly.

Drivers should pursue tires that can withstand that torque and deliver grip that maximizes their vehicles’ acceleration power. The key: tread patterns and rubber compounds that balance durability and responsiveness.

Range

Range anxiety is real. Numerous studies indicate that uncertain or low driving range per charge is one of the biggest barriers to entry for drivers who choose not to purchase an EV. Tires help deliver more efficient, predictable range per charge. The key: lowering rolling resistance, which is the amount of energy required to propel a vehicle along the road at a constant speed.

How do tiremakers lower the rolling resistance of their tires? Design plays a big role. According to Nokian Tyres, a tire’s sidewall construction, tread pattern and rubber compound play a role in reducing rolling resistance. More than 90% of Nokian Tyres’ products rank in the lowest categories of rolling resistance because the tire manufacturer prioritizes energy efficiency.

There’s little point in buying electric vehicles without also seeking tires designed to unlock their benefits. Nokian Tyres recommends tires that are tailored to handle EVs’ weight, noise levels, torque and range requirements. The result: a supercharged driving experience.

For more recommendations about EV tires, visit NokianTires.com/EVs.

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Choosing to be an Optimist: Wendy’s Experience with Primary Biliary Cholangitis (PBC)

2024-07-17T06:01:00

(BPT) – This is the real-life experience of one individual’s experience living with primary biliary cholangitis (PBC). This is not representative of all experiences. The information provided is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Wendy built a career in human resources making sure employees had the information and support they needed to be successful in their roles. Almost 30 years later, Wendy is using that same passion for helping others to raise awareness of a rare liver disease called primary biliary cholangitis (PBC).

PBC is a progressive, cholestatic autoimmune disease that causes chronic inflammation and can lead to irreversible scarring of the liver. Over time, PBC progressively destroys liver bile ducts and can cause bile and toxins to build-up (cholestasis) which can lead to scarring of the liver (cirrhosis), and eventually liver failure.[i] It is also a disease that predominantly affects women.[ii]

Life with PBC for Wendy has had its challenges. She was always very active and kept busy, so never felt that anything was “off” with her health. It wasn’t until she had routine blood work done and had higher-than-normal liver enzymes that her doctor recommended she see a liver specialist, a hepatologist.

A liver biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of PBC and Wendy’s doctor started her on a treatment for PBC. But when her alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels did not improve, she decided to seek out a second opinion to get the answers she needed.

“It was important to me that my concerns were being heard by my doctor,” Wendy recalls. “I advocated for myself and found a new hepatologist — one that respected my needs and goals for managing PBC.”

Advances in PBC Research

For people living with PBC, there has been a significant unmet need for new treatment options, particularly for people who have an inadequate response to first-line treatment or are intolerant to treatment.[iii] However, research in PBC is continuing and there have been advancements in medicine that may help meet the current needs of people living with this disease.[i],[iv]

For Wendy, PBC treatment options are important, especially since she did not respond to initial treatment.

Moving Forward

While certain aspects of this progressive autoimmune disease have not allowed Wendy to continue with a traditional career path, she’s taken on a new role as the “CEO of her family.” And while she knows that life may never be “normal” with PBC, she is going to do everything she can to be as healthy as possible for her family.

Wendy hopes that by sharing her story, she can inspire others who are living with PBC to feel empowered to advocate for themselves and their liver health. “Although this disease may be challenging and life will be different, you can choose to be an optimist.”

Learn more about Iqirvo® (elafibranor) 80 mg tablets, including full Prescribing Information and Important Safety Information at www.Iqirvo.com.

Wendy and her husband enjoying coffee outside on the patio.
Wendy is the mother of two kids who are now grown adults and has been married to her husband for almost 27 years.

___________

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

-What is IQIRVO® used for?

IQIRVO is a prescription medicine used to treat primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) in combination with ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) in adults who have not responded well to UDCA, or used alone in patients unable to tolerate UDCA.

IQIRVO is not recommended for use in people who have symptoms or signs of advanced liver disease. It is not known if taking IQIRVO will improve your chance of survival or prevent liver decompensation.

It is not known if IQIRVO is safe and effective in children under 18 years of age.

-What Warnings should I know about IQIRVO?

  • IQIRVO can cause muscle problems (myalgia, myopathy, rhabdomyolysis) and muscle pain that can be severe. Treatment with IQIRVO may cause muscle pain or worsen existing pain and can increase the level of an enzyme in your blood called creatine phosphokinase (CPK); both can be a sign of muscle damage. If there is new or worsening muscle pain, your healthcare provider may examine you and perform a blood test. Stop taking IQIRVO and call your healthcare provider right away if you have any of the following signs or symptoms: severe muscle pain, unexplained soreness, unexplained muscle weakness, or dark, reddish urine.
  • IQIRVO may increase the risk of bone fractures. Tell your healthcare provider about any bone fractures, or if you develop pain, or have changes in your ability to move around.
  • IQIRVO may cause harm to an unborn baby when taken during pregnancy. Women taking IQIRVO who can become pregnant should use effective birth control during treatment and for 3 weeks after the last dose of IQIRVO. Talk to your healthcare provider about birth control methods that may be right for you. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant.
  • IQIRVO can cause liver problems and abnormal liver blood test results. Your healthcare provider should do tests before starting and during treatment with IQIRVO to check your liver function. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you experience any of the following during treatment with IQIRVO: swelling of your stomach-area (abdomen), yellowing of your skin or whites of your eyes, black, tarry, or bloody stools, mental changes such as confusion, being sleepier than usual or harder to wake up, slurred speech, mood swings, or changes in personality, or coughing up or vomiting blood, or your vomit looks like coffee grounds. If you have severe stomach-area (abdomen) pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite or weight loss, new or worsening fatigue, weakness, fever and chills, light-headedness, or less frequent urination, tell your healthcare provider right away.
  • Some people taking IQIRVO had allergic reactions, which may include rash, trouble breathing, itching, or swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. If you experience any of these, stop taking IQIRVO, call your healthcare provider right away or go to the nearest hospital emergency room.
  • IQIRVO can cause blockage of the bile duct and may increase your risk of gallstones. Call your healthcare provider right away if you develop pain in the upper right stomach area or yellowing of the skin.

-You should not use IQIRVO if you:

  • Have advanced liver disease.
  • Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. IQIRVO can harm your unborn baby. You should not become pregnant during treatment with IQIRVO.
  • Are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if IQIRVO passes into your breast milk. Talk with your healthcare provider about the best way to feed your baby if you take IQIRVO.

-What are the side effects of IQIRVO?

The most common side effects of IQIRVO include weight gain, diarrhea, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, joint pain, constipation, muscle pain, bone fractures, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), dry mouth, weight loss, and rash. These are not all of the possible side effects of IQIRVO. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.

-What other medications might interact with IQIRVO?

Tell your healthcare provider about all of the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. IQIRVO can affect the way certain medicines work. Certain medicines may affect the way IQIRVO works. If you take a bile acid binding resin, take IQIRVO at least 4 hours before or after you take your bile acid resin.

You are encouraged to report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch. You may also report side effects to Ipsen Biopharmaceuticals, Inc. at 1-855-463-5127.

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[i] European Association for the Study of the Liver. EASL clinical practice guidelines: the diagnosis and management of patients with primary biliary cholangitis. J Hepatol. 2017;67(1):145-172.

[ii] Galoosian A, et al. 2020. Clinical updates in primary biliary cholangitis: trends, epidemiology, diagnostics, and new therapeutic approaches. J Clin Transl Hepatol. 8(1), pp. 49-60.

[iii] Huang YQ. Recent advances in the diagnosis and treatment of primary biliary cholangitis. World J Hepatol. 2016 Nov 28;8(33):1419-1441. doi: 10.4254/wjh.v8.i33.1419. PMID: 27957241; PMCID: PMC5124714.

[iv] Medford A, Childs J, Little A, Chakraborty S, Baiocchi L, Alpini G, Glaser S. Emerging Therapeutic Strategies in The Fight Against Primary Biliary Cholangitis. J Clin Transl Hepatol. 2023 Aug 28;11(4):949-957. doi: 10.14218/JCTH.2022.00398. Epub 2023 Mar 16. PMID: 37408803; PMCID: PMC10318288.

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8 tips to save on your next vacation to Myrtle Beach

2024-07-19T12:09:00

(BPT) – Getting away from your routine to recharge, renew and reset on vacation is great for your mind, body and spirit. But are you worried about the dent it can put in your wallet? Relax! You don’t need to break your budget to take a vacation with your partner, family or friends. You just need some travel-savvy tips to stretch your dollar.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, has long been celebrated as a vibrant coastal destination, and is also a holiday haven that offers incredible value for visitors. Visit Myrtle Beach has even put together a Budget-Savvy Traveler Guide with insider information on things like the best happy hours in the area, free attractions, deals on lodging — everything you need to know to stretch those vacay dollars. They really have your back. It makes you wish every destination had a guide like that, right?

Here are some of their best tips for a cost-effective getaway in Myrtle Beach:

Book directly with the hotel or resort

Third-party booking sites are popular, but many hotels and resorts offer the best rates and even exclusive deals when you book directly with them through their websites. You’re also more likely to get free upgrades, complimentary breakfast and points or discounts on future stays.

Consider flexible dates

If you aren’t locked into a certain time frame, open up your plans to include flexible dates. Late summer or off-peak times may offer better rates and smaller crowds, and midweek stays are often less expensive, too. Keep an eye out for last-minute deals on hotels and flights with an app like Hopper that can find great prices on hotels and flights and alert you it’s time to buy.

Look at discount airlines

Depending on your destination, you may find a discount carrier to get you there. Breeze Airways, Allegiant Airlines, Avelo Airlines, Frontier Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Sun Country Airlines and others can make travel affordable.

Travel with family and friends and consider splitting lodging

Vacationing with a group of friends or family is fun, first and foremost, but it also allows you to save money on lodging. Many resorts in Myrtle Beach offer multi-bedroom units with full kitchens and extra beds. These are perfect for larger groups, allowing you to split the cost while enjoying more space and amenities. You can also explore group discounts on accommodations and activities or consider a beach house vacation rental, which is far more cost-effective than booking multiple hotel rooms. Plus, you’ll have access to a full kitchen for meal prep. And about that kitchen…

Make use of the in-room kitchen

You don’t need to eat every meal out! When you get to your destination, zip to a nearby grocery store and stock up on coffee, yogurt, fruit, eggs, sliced meats and cheeses, snacks for the afternoon, or anything your group loves. Eating in for breakfast and lunch can save a significant amount of money, especially if you’re traveling with kids. Explore the local cuisine for happy hour and dinner and look out for special deals online!

Investigate lodging specials and packages

Before you book, check hotel and resort websites for special offers and packages that include extras like free nights, dining credits or tickets to attractions. Independent hotels, such as Brittain Resorts & Hotels or Vacation Myrtle Beach, often offer additional flexibility and special deals that you may not find with larger chains. And don’t forget to use every discount that’s available to you, including AAA, AARP or loyalty programs and points.

Take advantage of free attractions

In Myrtle Beach, the beach is the main attraction and it’s free! You can spend your days enjoying the sun, sand and surf without spending a dime. Also, look for local events and festivals like free concerts, fireworks and other family-friendly things to do. Does your family enjoy the great outdoors? Explore local parks, nature trails, and scenic spots that don’t charge an entrance fee. From parks and shopping areas to the Boardwalk, Murrells Inlet MarshWalk, and local gardens, many of Myrtle Beach’s popular attractions provide excellent value with free activities and events.

Find discounted attraction tickets

Before you go, look online for tickets for popular attractions. Booking ahead ensures you won’t be disappointed when you get there and find they’re sold out, but it also lets you find discounts and combo deals.

With these tips, you can enjoy a wonderful vacation without making too big a dent in your budget. For more information on what’s new in Myrtle Beach and to plan your next trip, head to www.VisitMyrtleBeach.com.

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Give your aging wood deck a composite makeover

2024-07-19T08:01:00

(BPT) – Of the more than 60 million decks in the U.S., it is estimated that 50% are “past their useful life” and in need of repair or replacement, according to a report by the North American Decking and Railing Association (NADRA). If yours is among them, consider this. As long as your substructure is in good shape, resurfacing the walking surface with high-performance composite can be a simple way to breathe new life into your deck, requiring about the same amount of time and energy as resurfacing with wood. And, you’ll never have to stain your deck again.

Composite decking, like Trex®, has gained popularity among today’s homeowners who relish not having to sand, stain or seal the surface every year and who appreciate the eco-friendly nature of the material, which is made from mostly recycled and reclaimed materials. Better yet, with a little know-how and a few standard tools, even a novice DIYer can install it.

Following are a few tips for taking your existing deck from wood to “wow” by resurfacing it with high-performance, low-maintenance composite decking:

Resurfacing is different than rebuilding — Unlike building a deck from the ground up, deck resurfacing involves removing and replacing the deck boards with new materials to give it a fresh, updated look. Think of it as a facelift for your deck! Installing composite decking will also extend the life of a deck with boards that are warrantied to last anywhere from 25-50 years or more.

A firm foundation is key — Before pulling up any boards, assess your deck’s foundation to ensure it is structurally sound. Start from the ground up by examining the footings, posts and joists. Pay close attention to the condition of the wood. Discolored or spongy wood indicates rot and should be replaced before proceeding. As long as the framing and substructure are intact, you’re good to go.

Use your resources — You don’t need to be a building expert to tackle a resurfacing project. Utilizing online design tools and cost calculators can help you with product selection and budgeting. There are also step-by-step videos, installation guides and how-to articles available to walk you through the process.

Resurfacing an aging or decaying wood deck with new composite decking is a doable DIY project that can be completed over the course of just a weekend or two. You get a brand-new deck for a lot less money than starting from scratch, and a lot less hassle through the years.

For more expert advice and DIY resources, visit Trex.com.