Posted on

7 can’t-miss steps for Medicare annual enrollment

2023-11-10T09:01:00

(BPT) – It’s here — your yearly opportunity to make changes to your Medicare coverage. Medicare Annual Enrollment happens every year Oct. 15 through Dec. 7, during which you can review your current plan, compare your coverage options, and make any necessary updates. Any changes you make then go into effect on Jan. 1, 2024.

Whether you’re enrolling for the first time or not, it can be a lot of information to sift through. To help you stay organized and make sure you check every box, ClearMatch Medicare created the following handy checklist. Follow these steps to find the coverage that works for you.

1. Create a provider list.

Make a list of all your current medical providers, including your primary doctor as well as any specialists or services you use regularly. This should also include the clinics or hospitals you visit most. Listing this information will help you decide which Medicare plan is right for you.

2. List your prescriptions.

Do you take any prescription drugs? If so, write them down. Medicare plans change each year, and it’s possible that your current plan may stop covering your prescriptions. Have your medications top of mind before comparing plans for the coming year.

3. Plan ahead.

If possible, have a conversation with your doctor about what screenings, tests or medications you might need in the coming year. While you can’t see into the future, try to note any healthcare changes you expect over the next 12 months.

4. Review your plan’s Annual Notice of Change and Evidence of Coverage

If you have any coverage outside of Original Medicare (Parts A and B), your plan sends an Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) and Evidence of Coverage (EOC), which you should receive in September. If you don’t receive one, contact your plan. These documents provide details about upcoming changes to your coverage. Compare them to your current and projected medical needs to determine if it’s time to change plans.

5. Review your current Medicare and other insurance coverage.

Think about your existing plan. Is it meeting your needs? Are you OK with the cost? Reflect on what’s working and what’s not — then plan for any changes you need to make for next year.

And if you have other health insurance benefits besides Medicare, talk to your benefits administrator to determine how your Medicare enrollment impacts your additional health coverage.

6. Review Medicare Advantage options.

Many Medicare Advantage plans offer benefits not covered by Original Medicare, such as prescription drug coverage and routine dental and vision care. You may find that a Medicare Advantage plan saves you money thanks to this increased coverage. These plans also have a yearly out-of-pocket maximum, unlike Original Medicare.

7. Confirm your total cost.

The total cost of your Medicare plan may include monthly premiums, deductibles, co-pays and co-insurance. When comparing plans, dig a little deeper for an accurate picture of total costs so you’re prepared for the year and know what you can afford. Keep in mind:

  • For Part D plans, you need to consider the monthly premium, co-pays and the drug formulary. Most insurers use tiered pricing for prescription drugs. If your prescriptions are on one of the upper tiers, your co-pay could be substantial.
  • Most Medicare Advantage and Part D plans with extremely low premiums have higher co-pays, deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums.

Overwhelmed by all these steps? Don’t worry, free help is just a phone call away. ClearMatch Medicare is dedicated to making Medicare easier to understand so you can choose the plan that’s right for you. Their highly trained and licensed insurance agents are patient and helpful, and if they find you’re already in the right plan, they’ll tell you so.

Call 1-888-441-7382 (TTY:711) for a free Medicare review, Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-9 p.m., Saturday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. (ET) or visit ClearMatchMedicare.com, open 24-7.

Posted on

3 ways to help combat seasonal allergies

2023-11-10T09:01:00

(BPT) – If you regularly experience the symptoms of seasonal allergies, you know how miserable they can make you. The congestion, sneezing, runny nose and itchy eyes can really disrupt your daily routine. During the months when pollen counts are high for common allergens you are sensitive to, it’s a good idea to take some proactive steps to help reduce the presence of those allergens in your home, as well as your exposure to them.

Here are simple steps you can take that can make a big difference for your symptoms.

Stay updated on current pollen counts

Checking on the daily pollen counts in your area can help you make smart decisions around exposure for you and anyone else in your household who has allergies. On days when the counts are high, you may want to limit the time you spend outdoors, or wear an N95 mask if you do need to be outside for a while. This can help reduce your direct exposure to the pollen that’s floating in the air.

You’ll also want to make sure to keep all your windows closed on high pollen count days, and let the filter in your HVAC system (and any free-standing air purifiers you may use at home) get to work on keeping your home’s air as clean as possible. Regularly replacing filters is also a good idea — and even more frequently than manufacturers’ recommendations, if your allergies are severe.

Keep clothes and other items free from allergens

Did you know that you can help remove allergens from clothes and fabrics in your own home? With LG Styler® Steam Closet with TrueSteam® Technology and Exclusive Moving Hangers, you can keep all your clothing and any other items clean, refreshed and deodorized while also helping remove airborne allergens like pollen, pet dander and dust — without using any harsh chemicals.

The LG Styler Steam Closet is easy to install — all you need is a standard outlet — and has a slim design, so it’s easy to find a place to use it in your laundry room, bedroom or elsewhere in your home. TrueSteam Technology is a chemical-free steam-generating powerhouse that uses hot vaporized water to penetrate all kinds of fabrics. As the hot steam circulates, the hangers included will vibrate side to side to help shake out dust, allergens and odors.

Because of its effectiveness in helping remove airborne allergens, the LG Styler Steam Closet is certified by the Asthma & Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA). You can even use it for cleaning and removing pollen from hard-to-wash items including backpacks, stuffed toys, gloves, jackets and towels.

Even better, you can pair the LG Styler Steam Closet with Alexa or Google Assistant, or use the ThinQ App to download specialty care options, remotely check on remaining cycle time and more. Visit LG.com to learn more.

Reduce pollen, dander and dust on floors

It’s all too easy for allergens to settle on the floors throughout your home, so it’s best to keep them as clean as possible. If you can replace carpets with flooring that’s easier to keep clean, that is one recommended tactic. If not, use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to keep carpets clean, at least once or twice a week. Consider shampooing your carpet every two to three months to keep it as clean as possible, or you could hire a professional carpet cleaning service.

For hard surfaces, regular vacuuming and mopping can help keep airborne allergens from accumulating. Make sure to wear an N95 mask while you’re vacuuming to help protect yourself from dust, dander or pollen that gets kicked up while you’re cleaning.

You don’t have to be at the mercy of allergens, even on days when the pollen count is high. Following these strategies should help you reduce your allergy symptoms this season — and throughout the year.

Posted on

A Father’s Journey to Remission After Three Lymphoma Relapses

2023-11-09T12:01:00

(BPT) – Roy Bragadeste, a husband and father, was living in Seattle and enjoying what many would describe as a relatively normal life, working, spending time with his wife, kids and dog, and enjoying the outdoors. The idea of a cancer diagnosis was far from his mind, but that is exactly what happened.

During an epic storm blanketing Seattle with more snow than the city had seen in decades, Roy slipped and fell on a patch of ice, cracking three ribs. After experiencing severe pain for months from the broken ribs, he was examined by a doctor who pushed on his abdomen, causing Roy to call out in pain. Concerned that Roy shouldn’t be experiencing discomfort there, the doctor recommended that Roy undergo a CT scan, which showed a mass in his pelvis. Roy also had swollen lymph nodes, a common symptom of what would turn out to be an aggressive type of blood cancer called diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL).

After undergoing a lymph node biopsy, Roy was diagnosed with this cancer of the lymphatic system, which occurs when abnormal white blood cells grow out of control.1 DLBCL is the most common type of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, responsible for approximately 31,000 new cases in the United States this year.2

Long before Roy moved to Seattle, he came to the United States from Portugal as an eight-year-old. His father, who did not yet speak English, worked three jobs, struggling to make ends meet. To help out his family, Roy started working at age 11, watering his neighbors’ yards for 75 cents each.

Helping support his family at a young age taught Roy determination and resilience, traits that would be important years later – not only when he was diagnosed with DLBCL but again when his cancer relapsed, not once but three times.

Facing the Challenge of a Lymphoma Diagnosis

DLBCL is a fast-growing blood cancer and one of the most aggressive types of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.3 For many people diagnosed with DLBCL, their cancer typically goes into remission with standard initial therapy. However, for 40% of them, their cancer either relapses (returns at a later time) or is refractory (doesn’t respond to initial treatment).4

Although Roy had advanced-stage DLBCL, his oncologist told him it was treatable.

“It took a few weeks to accept my diagnosis and see myself as a cancer patient in the fight of my life,” Roy said.

He was initially treated with a combination of chemotherapy plus immunotherapy, persevering through six cycles of therapy.

Roy was then referred to a hematologist at the Swedish Cancer Institute in Seattle who is a lymphoma specialist and received radiation treatment.

Experiencing the Burden of Relapse

When a PET scan showed Roy’s cancer had returned, the next step in his treatment journey was a bone marrow transplant.

“It was as close as I’ve ever been to saying ‘this is it, I’m done,’” Roy said, referring to his experience undergoing the bone marrow transplant.

Six months after returning home from the hospital from the bone marrow transplant, Roy felt pain in his hip and couldn’t lift his leg. His hematologist gave him the unfortunate news that the cancer had returned a second time. Roy elected to be treated with a type of cancer therapy in which immune cells were removed from his blood, genetically modified in a lab, and reinfused – which involved a week-long hospital stay.

Three months later, a scan showed a spot in Roy’s lungs, and biopsy results revealed the cancer had returned a third time.

“Every time I heard I had cancer again, it was just as bad as the first time I heard it,” Roy said.

Roy was worried he was out of options, but he followed his hematologist’s suggestion to enroll in a clinical trial evaluating an investigational treatment – a bispecific antibody, designed to utilize the immune system to fight lymphoma – for adults with DLBCL that has come back or did not respond to at least two previous treatments. It may also affect healthy cells.

“After I experienced a third relapse, I wanted to participate in a clinical trial. Even if the study wasn’t successful, I wished to give back by using my condition to help hematologists and researchers advance investigational therapies that might help other people in a similar situation,” Roy said.

Based on the clinical trial results, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the treatment, Columvi® (glofitamab-gxbm), under accelerated approval in June 2023 for adults with certain types of relapsed or refractory DLBCL or large B-cell lymphoma (LBCL) after at least two previous rounds of cancer therapy. All medicines have side effects. In the clinical trial of Columvi, a serious side effect that was common was cytokine release syndrome, a type of inflammation throughout the body that can be severe and life-threatening.

For people like Roy with aggressive lymphoma who have relapsed several times and have limited treatment options, Columvi may provide hope.

Columvi is what’s known as a fixed-duration treatment, meaning it’s given for a finite number of treatment cycles, which may allow patients to have time off therapy after completing treatment, rather than continuous therapy, which is given until the cancer progresses. Columvi is ready for infusion, so treatment may be able to start soon after the medicine is prescribed.

After Roy’s long treatment journey, he is now in remission. Today, he enjoys participating in outdoor activities and coaching baseball, and is focused on spending time with his family.

“Having blood cancer has been devastating, but it’s also been a blessing,” he explained. “It’s given me the opportunity to live like I was dying. I got a kick in the butt that told me to wake up!”

If you or a loved one has DLBCL, talk to your doctor about treatment options. For more information about Columvi, visit https://www.columvi.com/.

This sponsored article is presented by Genentech.

# # #

Columvi U.S. Indication

Columvi (glofitamab-gxbm) is a prescription medicine to treat adults with certain types of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) or large B-cell lymphoma (LBCL) that has come back (relapsed) or that did not respond to previous treatment (refractory), and who have received 2 or more prior treatments for their cancer.

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

The conditional approval of Columvi is based on response rate and durability of response. There are ongoing studies to establish how well the drug works.

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

Columvi can cause Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS), a serious side effect that is common during treatment with Columvi, and can also be serious and lead to death.

Call your healthcare provider or get emergency medical help right away if you develop any signs or symptoms of CRS, including:

  • fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher
  • chills or shaking
  • fast or irregular heartbeat
  • dizziness or light-headedness
  • trouble breathing
  • shortness of breath

Due to the risk of CRS, you will receive Columvi on a “step-up dosing schedule”.

  • A single dose of a medicine called obinutuzumab will be given to you on the first day of your first treatment cycle (Day 1 of Cycle 1).
  • You will start the Columvi step-up dosing schedule a week after the obinutuzumab dose. The step-up dosing schedule is when you receive smaller “step-up” doses of Columvi on Day 8 and Day 15 of Cycle 1. This is to help reduce your risk of CRS. You should be hospitalized during your infusion and for 24 hours after receiving the first step-up dose on Day 8. You should be hospitalized during your infusion and for 24 hours after receiving the second step-up dose on Day 15 if you experienced CRS during the first step-up dose.
  • You will receive your first full dose of Columvi a week after the second step-up dose (this will be Day 1 of Cycle 2).
  • If your dose of Columvi is delayed for any reason, you may need to repeat the “step-up dosing schedule”.
  • If you had more than mild CRS with your previous dose of Columvi, you should be hospitalized during and for 24 hours after receiving your next dose of Columvi.
  • Before each dose of Columvi, you will receive medicines to help reduce your risk of CRS and infusion-related reactions.

Your healthcare provider will monitor you for CRS during treatment with Columvi and may treat you in a hospital if you develop signs and symptoms of CRS. Your healthcare provider may temporarily stop or completely stop your treatment with Columvi if you have severe side effects.

Carry the Columvi Patient Wallet Card with you at all times and show it to all of your healthcare providers. The Columvi Patient Wallet Card lists the signs and symptoms of CRS you should get emergency medical help for right away.

What are the possible side effects of Columvi?

Columvi may cause serious side effects, including:

  • Cytokine Release Syndrome.
  • Neurologic problems. Columvi can cause serious neurologic problems that may lead to death. Your healthcare provider will monitor you for neurologic problems during treatment with Columvi. Your healthcare provider may also refer you to a healthcare provider who specializes in neurologic problems. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you develop any signs or symptoms of neurologic problems, including:
    • headache
    • confusion and disorientation
    • difficulty paying attention or understanding things
    • trouble speaking
    • sleepiness
    • memory problems
    • numbness, tingling, or weakness of the hands or feet
    • dizziness
    • shaking (tremors)
  • Serious Infections. Columvi can cause serious infections that may lead to death. Your healthcare provider will monitor you for signs and symptoms of infection and treat you as needed. Tell your health care provider right away if you develop any signs of an infection, including: fever, chills, weakness, cough, shortness of breath, or sore throat.
  • Growth in your tumor or worsening of tumor related problems (tumor flare). Tell your healthcare provider if you get any of these signs or symptoms of tumor flare:
    • tender or swollen lymph nodes
    • pain or swelling at the site of the tumor
    • chest pain
    • cough
    • trouble breathing

The most common side effects of Columvi include: CRS, muscle and bone pain, rash, and tiredness.

The most common severe abnormal lab test results with Columvi include: decreased white blood cells, decreased phosphate (an electrolyte), increased uric acid levels, and decreased fibrinogen (a protein that helps with blood clotting).

Your healthcare provider may temporarily stop or completely stop treatment with Columvi if you develop certain side effects.

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

  • have an infection
  • have kidney problems
  • are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Columvi may harm your unborn baby

Females who are able to become pregnant:

  • Your healthcare provider should do a pregnancy test before you start treatment with Columvi.
  • You should use effective birth control (contraception) during treatment and for 1 month after your last dose of Columvi. Talk to your healthcare provider about what birth control method is right for you during this time.
  • Tell your healthcare provider right away if you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant during treatment with Columvi.
  • are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Columvi may pass into your breast milk. Do not breastfeed during treatment and for 1 month after your last dose of Columvi.

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

What should I avoid while receiving Columvi?

Do not drive, operate heavy machinery, or do other dangerous activities if you develop dizziness, confusion, shaking (tremors), sleepiness, or any other symptoms that impair consciousness until your signs and symptoms go away. These may be signs and symptoms of neurologic problems.

These are not all the possible side effects of Columvi. Talk to your health care provider for more information about the benefits and risks of Columvi.

You may report side effects to the FDA at (800) FDA-1088 or http://www.fda.gov/medwatch. You may also report side effects to Genentech at (888) 835-2555.

Please see Important Safety Information, including Serious Side Effects, as well as the Columvi full Prescribing Information and Medication Guide or visit https://www.Columvi.com.

References

  1. American Society of Clinical Oncology. Cancer.Net. Lymphoma – Non-Hodgkin: Introduction. https://www.cancer.net/cancer-types/lymphoma-non-hodgkin/introduction. Accessed June 28, 2023.
  2. Kanas G, Ge W, Quek RGW, Keeven K, Nersesyan K, Arnason JE. Epidemiology of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) and follicular lymphoma (FL) in the United States and Western Europe: population-level projections for 2020-2025. Leuk Lymphoma. 2022;63(1):54-63. https://doi.org/10.1080/10428194.2021.1975188. Epub 2021 Sep 11. PMID: 34510995. Accessed June 28, 2023.
  3. American Cancer Society. About Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma. What Is Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma? https://www.cancer.org/cancer/non-hodgkin-lymphoma/about/what-is-non-hodgkin-lymphoma.html. Accessed June 28, 2023.
  4. Sawalha Y. Relapsed/refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma: a look at the approved and emerging therapies. J Pers Med. 2021;11(12):1345. https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm11121345. Accessed June 28, 2023.
  5. Columvi (glofitamab-gxbm) Prescribing Information. Genentech, Inc. 2023.

Posted on

The best regions of the world for small ship exploration

2023-11-09T14:01:01

(BPT) – You’re curious about the world, love to learn and want to travel in a way that uniquely connects you to the people, culture and landscape of an area. Small ship exploration checks all these boxes, providing you a closer look at what makes a region special so you have experiences that you’ll never forget.

Viking’s voyages offer highly curated, upscale travel experiences for adults on nimble small ships that explore some of the most incredible areas of the world. There are no kids, casinos, art auctions or umbrella drinks — because the focus is on the travel experience and exploring the world, which leaves a lasting and meaningful impression.

Here are the top regions to consider for small ship voyages and what you can expect to experience:

Scandinavia

Scandinavia is Viking territory and small ship exploration is the perfect complement to the region’s rich maritime history. From colorful fishing villages and breathtaking fjords to historic cities that feature rich cultural traditions, there’s so much to appreciate. On a Scandinavian voyage with Viking you’ll learn about the Hanseatic past of Bergen and traditional glassblowing techniques in Bornholm. You’ll have opportunities to experience a Sami ceremony north of the Arctic Circle and sheep farming in a Faroese village. Of course, you’ll be in awe of Norway’s magnificent fjords and perhaps catch a dazzling display of the northern lights during special winter sailings. Above all else, you’ll learn something new every day and be amazed at the world around you.

Caribbean and Central America

The rich cultural diversity and tropical climate has attracted travelers to the Caribbean and Central America for hundreds of years. Today, you can gain an intimate understanding of these legendary regions when you opt for small ship travel. In ports from San Juan to Colón, Viking’s Caribbean and Central America voyages allow for ample access to enriching excursions on land and sea. Just a few of the sights travelers enjoy are the soaring pyramids and temples of Chichén Itzá, picturesque rainforests of Costa Rica, natural wonders inside Bridgetown’s Harrison’s Cave, the fascinating history at the Mayan ruins at Belize’s Altun Ha and St. Lucia’s famed pair of volcanic pylons, Gros and Petit Pitons.

Mediterranean

The empires of the Mediterranean left a remarkable historic legacy that continues to influence today. Do you want to learn more and explore the area, but prefer to do so more like a local than a tourist? The secret is to go during the quiet season. With fewer travelers, you’ll get easier access to landmarks and easygoing interactions with locals. A variety of quiet season Mediterranean itineraries are available from Viking, so whether you want to admire the turquoise splendor of the Greek Isles, explore Rome’s monumental Colosseum, take in Vatican City’s glorious St. Peter’s Basilica or enjoy the architectural brilliance of Antoni Gaudi in Barcelona, you have plenty of options.

Great Lakes

The largest freshwater ecosystem on earth, the Great Lakes of North America offer a wonderland of nature just waiting to be explored. From the comfort of a Viking small ship, you can explore the Great Lakes, which total over 750 miles across with 10,000 miles of coastline. As you have breakfast, take in the beautiful and diverse landscape, and keep your eyes out for birds in the Great Lakes, you may even catch a glimpse of eagles. Depart the ship and try your hand at new adventures, like kayaking in Georgian Bay — a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve — or get closer to shore with one of Viking’s expert guides during a Zodiac excursion. Discover the powerful beauty of Niagara Falls, learn about Canada’s small mining towns, view the world-class collection of the Milwaukee Art Museum and so much more.

Grand Journeys

Feeling inspired? If you’re not sure which small ship journey to choose, you’ll be excited to learn you don’t have to settle for just one itinerary. Viking Grand Journeys combine two or more itineraries into one seamless trip through countries with rich histories, fascinating cultures and striking natural beauty. These longer, epic journeys allow you to explore the world in comfort and style, while learning from world-class guest lecturers, savoring regional cuisine and experiencing some of the most iconic cultural performing art forms around the globe.

To learn more about Viking and the many wonderful options for small ship travel, visit Viking.com.

Posted on

Medicare open enrollment help at no cost

2023-11-09T08:01:00

(BPT) – Medicare open enrollment ends on December 7. State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs) provide free, in-depth, unbiased counseling and support to Medicare-eligible individuals, their families, and caregivers. Whether you are new to Medicare, reviewing Medicare plan options, or have questions on how to use your Medicare, a local SHIP can help. A certified counselor will give you one-on-one guidance based on your unique situation and needs.

Posted on

Gift Wrapping Weekend: The Ultimate Holiday Hack From Carter’s

2023-11-09T11:01:00

(BPT) – The holidays are just around the corner, and although it’s a magical time to spend with family and friends, it’s also one of the busiest and most stressful seasons for parents. So this year, Carter’s, the most trusted brand of apparel exclusively for babies and young children, is taking one of the most dreaded holiday tasks and turning it into something for parents to enjoy.

Inspired by last year’s viral social media trend, Carter’s is introducing its first-ever “Gift Wrapping Weekend,” rallying parents nationwide to dedicate the first weekend of December to tackling holiday to-dos while also indulging in self-care — think spa treatments, binge watching, cozy pajamas and more. The result? Two silent, relaxing nights away that allow parents to knock things off their to-do list and in turn, allows them to spend more uninterrupted quality time with their family during the remainder of the holiday season.

To kick off this epic new tradition, Carter’s is calling all shoppers to take advantage of its holiday deals and snag gifts early so they can spend Dec. 1 through 3 “wrapping up” their gifting to-dos in peace, and enjoy some much-deserved indulgence. The children’s clothing company is offering some of its best deals this time of year, including major discounts on Family Matching Holiday Pajamas and Family Holiday Outfits, plus check out the retailer’s Holiday Toy Shop for must-have gifts for your little ones. Not sure what to buy someone? Not to worry. Carter’s offers a slew of gift cards for all four of its brands so you can give the perfect gift, every time.

As an added bonus, Carter’s is kicking off the launch of its first-ever Gift Wrapping Weekend with an epic giveaway. Today through Nov. 14, parents and caregivers can enter Carter’s Gift Wrapping Getaway Giveaway for a chance to score a $2,500 gift card for a hotel stay to check in and check off holiday to-dos in peace, along with a custom wrapping kit. Nine runners-up will receive a wrapping kit complete with all the trimmings to jumpstart their weekend celebrations.

To enter, visit www.carters.com/wrappinggetaway and follow Carter’s on Instagram and TikTok for more updates this season. Shop Carter’s biggest holiday deals and steals on Carters.com, ensuring your little ones are fully dressed in festive fits this season.

Posted on

A Larger Piece of the Pie: The Impact of Women-Owned Businesses in the U.S.

2023-11-09T09:27:00

(BPT) – Women own nearly 50% of all U.S. businesses, yet they only receive 2% of venture capital (VC) funding, a tiny piece of the pie. Stacy’s® Pita Chips, a brand committed to the financial empowerment of women business owners, is proud to champion these entrepreneurs to get a bigger piece of the funding pie through the launch of the 2024 Stacy’s Rise Project. In addition to awarding 15 deserving founders a $25,000 grant, mentorship and community resources, this year the brand brings attention to this statistic with Stacy’s Rise Pies, available for purchase now on StacysRise.com.

Posted on

Millennial and Gen Z Adults Still See The American Dream Within Reach Despite Challenges

2023-11-08T15:01:00

(BPT) – While the definition of the “American Dream” is subjective, a new Chase survey of more than 2,500 Millennial and Gen Z adults shows that they believe freedom and homeownership are its most important pillars. The vast majority of respondents (78%) say that their goals are within reach, even as they recognize several factors making it more difficult today, such as housing affordability, inflation and the rising cost of living. The study’s findings also underscore the need for accessible financial education, particularly as young adults prepare for major life purchases.

Posted on

How a Breast Cancer Survivor Turned her Journey into an Empowering Platform

2023-11-08T08:01:00

(BPT) – Diagnosed with breast cancer nearly four years ago at the age of 41, Krisdee Clark*, like many women, was completely taken aback. What laid ahead for her was an inspiring journey of personal growth and recovery. Not only would she harness her own resilience and grace to thrive after treatment, but she would also channel her experience and strength to inspire change. In doing so, she’d create a meaningful platform to support other women who were going through similar struggles.

Facing a diagnosis with numerous hurdles

After feeling a lump and some minor discomfort while in the shower, Krisdee quickly made an appointment with her gynecologist who advised her to have a mammogram and diagnostic ultrasound. A week later, doctors scheduled a biopsy and shared the news of her diagnosis: invasive lobular carcinoma, a form of breast cancer that begins in the milk ducts.

To make a difficult situation even harder, the diagnosis arrived during her husband’s deployment overseas and coincided with the onset of COVID-19.

“The moment I was diagnosed, I knew I had to handle it with grace,” explained Krisdee, a mother of two young children plus three “bonus children.” “I had to show my daughter that we could get through this. I had to show my son what it was like to be a woman and go through something like this, in case he ever has someone in his life who ends up in a similar situation. That was very important to me.”

In addition to the weight of coping with her diagnosis, Krisdee struggled to find the right surgeon who could not only assure the successful removal of cancer but also instill confidence in the reconstruction of her breasts afterward.

Her grace was tested when the initial surgical oncologist she saw commented on her bringing an entourage to her appointment, which included having her husband join via FaceTime since he was deployed. Following this incident, Krisdee’s desire for a double mastectomy was met with resistance, and the plastic surgeon she consulted with offered little reassurance, telling her that while she would never look the same post-reconstruction, the cancer would be removed, and she should be happy with that.

Krisdee left the appointment in tears, knowing there had to be other options. “I struggled because a lot of people had the view that once the cancer’s gone you should be happy,” she said. “Removing the cancer was number one, but at 41 years old, I wasn’t ready to just accept that this is what I’d look like. It was very disheartening, and I knew there had to be more options.”

Moving forward with grace

Throughout her very trying journey, Krisdee drew strength from within and the support of her loved ones to continue searching for a doctor that she knew would be the best fit for her.

This is when Krisdee’s husband, an employee of Johnson & Johnson, sought advice from a colleague at Mentor Worldwide LLC, the #1 global brand in breast aesthetics, and another company within J&J. What Krisdee learned was invaluable: find a plastic surgeon who also specializes in reconstruction because they will work in partnership with some of the best surgical oncologists. Through this contact, Krisdee found surgeons Dr. Garrett Harper and Dr. Peter Turk, who actively involved her in every step of her treatment and reconstruction journey and gave her hope.

At the time of her diagnosis, Krisdee was initially informed of a 2 mm mass in her breast. However, a subsequent MRI showed the mass was closer to 5 mm and near her lymph nodes. In March 2020, just over a month after her diagnosis, and with the support of family, friends, and her doctors, Krisdee underwent a bilateral mastectomy (double mastectomy) and the mass was discovered to be significantly larger, measuring at 7.7cm. During her surgery, she had MENTOR® Breast Tissue Expanders placed to increase the amount of breast tissue needed prior to her having breast reconstruction with MENTOR® Breast Implants.

Turning struggle into strength

Like many women facing a breast cancer diagnosis, Krisdee was searching for answers, not just from a medical perspective, but from the shared experiences of women going through similar challenges. Frustrated by the absence of information, she decided to create The Blonde Bombshell, a blog that evolved into a much larger platform for Krisdee — offering a vital online community for women seeking resources, connections, and inspiration.

“I’ve spoken to many women who were talked out of reconstruction or dismissed by doctors. I’m thankful I found doctors that listened to me,” Krisdee said. “I use my blog and platform to educate others about what to expect — and things I wish I knew before I was diagnosed. I want to be a resource for others because I wanted resources so badly.”

Surprised by the global traction her blog was getting, Krisdee considered additional platforms to broaden her impact on raising awareness. Her aim was to ensure that women no longer felt isolated during their breast cancer journeys.

It had been years since she was a teenager in a state beauty pageant, but Krisdee recalled its potential for driving awareness and change. Motivated by this memory, Krisdee re-entered the pageant world, first winning the title of Mrs. Capital City in South Carolina only 8 months post-reconstruction. Shortly after, in April 2022, Krisdee was crowned Mrs. South Carolina American. Her journey continued on the national stage, where, just three months later, she took home the crown and national title of Mrs. American 2022.

Winning Mrs. American presented Krisdee with opportunities for public speaking, connecting with fellow survivors, and discovering a deeper meaning in her cancer journey. She’s since joined Susan G. Komen for the Cure, serving as the Keynote Speaker for their Advocacy Day in Washington, DC, and recently shared her story on the Real Pink Podcast. During her reign, Krisdee also visited women cancer warriors at Walter Reed Medical Center.

Through her journey, Krisdee wants women to have answers to their questions and assurance that they are not walking this path alone. Her platform is clear: Women can thrive and still feel beautiful after breast cancer.

“It was important to me that I didn’t let cancer define me,” Krisdee said. “I really believe that was my mindset from the beginning. It was very important to always have the outlook that I was bigger than cancer, and I would defeat this.”

Learn more about Mentor and breast reconstruction at BreastImplantsByMentor.com

To learn more about Krisdee’s journey, visit www.KrisdeeClark.com.

*Krisdee Clark is being compensated by Mentor for her time and participation in sharing her story.

WARNING:

  • Breast implants are not considered lifetime devices. The longer people have them, the greater the chances are that they will develop complications, some of which will require more surgery.
  • Breast implants have been associated with the development of a cancer of the immune system called breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). This cancer occurs more commonly in patients with textured breast implants than smooth Implants, although rates are not well defined. Some patients have died from BIA-ALCL.
  • Patients receiving breast implants have reported a variety of systematic symptoms such as joint pain, muscle aches, confusion, chronic fatigue, autoimmune diseases and others. Individual patient risk for developing these symptoms has not been well established. Some patients report complete resolution of symptoms when the implants are removed without replacement.

The sale and distribution of Mentor Breast Implant Devices are restricted to users and/or user facilities that provide information to patients about the risks and benefits of the device prior to its use in the form and manner specified in approved labeling to be provided by Mentor Worldwide LLC.

Important information: Prior to use, refer to the instructions for use supplied with this device for indications, contraindications, side effects, warnings and precautions.

Caution: US law restricts this device to sale by or on the order of a physician.

Important Safety Information:

The MENTOR® Collection of Breast Implants are indicated for breast reconstruction.

Breast implant surgery should not be performed in women:

  • With active infection anywhere in their body
  • With existing cancer or pre-cancer of their breasts who have not received adequate treatment for those conditions
  • Who are currently pregnant or nursing

Safety and effectiveness have not been established in patients with autoimmune diseases (for example lupus and scleroderma), a weakened immune system, conditions that interfere with wound healing and blood clotting, or reduced blood supply to breast tissue. Patients with a diagnosis of depression, or other mental health disorders, should wait until resolution or stabilization of these conditions prior to undergoing breast implantation surgery.

There are risks associated with breast implant surgery. You should be aware that breast implants are not lifetime devices and breast implantation may not be a one-time surgery. The chance of developing complications increases over time. You may need additional unplanned surgeries on your breasts because of complications or unacceptable cosmetic outcomes. Many of the changes to your breast following implantation are irreversible (cannot be undone) and breast implants may affect your ability to breastfeed, either by reducing or eliminating milk production.

Breast implants are not lifetime devices and breast implantation may not be a one-time surgery. The most common complications for breast reconstruction with MENTOR® MemoryGel® Breast Implants include any reoperation, implant removal with or without replacement, and capsular contracture. The most common complications with MENTOR® MemoryShape® Breast Implants for breast reconstruction include reoperation for any reason, implant removal with or without replacement, and capsular contracture. A lower risk of complication is rupture. The health consequences of a ruptured silicone gel breast implant have not been fully established. MRI screenings are recommended three years after initial implant surgery and then every two years after to detect silent rupture. Breast implants are also associated with the risk of breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL), an uncommon type of lymphoma. An individual’s risk of developing BIA-ALCL with MENTOR® Breast Implants is low based on the incidence of worldwide cases. The most common complications for breast reconstruction with MENTOR® Saline-filled Breast Implants include re-operation, implant removal, capsular contracture, breast pain, and implant deflation.

Detailed information regarding the risks and benefits associated with MENTOR® Breast Implants is provided in several educational brochures. For MemoryGel® Implants: Important Information for Reconstruction Patients about MENTOR® MemoryGel® Breast Implants. For MemoryShape® Implants: Patient Educational Brochure – Breast Reconstruction with MENTOR® MemoryShape® Breast Implants and Quick Facts about Breast Augmentation & Reconstruction with MENTOR® MemoryShape® Breast Implants. For MENTOR® Saline-filled Implants: Saline-Filled Breast Implants: Making an Informed Decision. These brochures are available from your surgeon or visit www.mentorwwllc.com. It is important that you read and understand these brochures when considering MENTOR® Breast Implants.

ARTOURA® Breast Tissue Expanders and CONTOUR PROFILE® Breast Tissue Expanders are used for breast reconstruction after mastectomy, correction of an underdeveloped breast, scar revision, and tissue defect procedures. The expander is intended for temporary subcutaneous or submuscular implantation and is not intended for use beyond six months. ARTOURA® Breast Tissue Expanders and CONTOUR PROFILE® Tissue Expanders contain a magnet within the internal injection domes and are NOT MRI compatible. The device could be moved by the MRI causing pain or displacement, potentially resulting in a revision surgery. DO NOT use the ARTOURA® Breast Tissue Expander and CONTOUR PROFILE® Tissue Expander in patients that have a previously implanted device such as pacemakers, drug infusion devices, artificial sensing devices, etc. that could be affected by a magnetic field. Mentor has not tested the effects of radiation therapy with ARTOURA® Breast Tissue Expanders and CONTOUR PROFILE® Expander devices. The incidence of extrusion of the expander has been shown to increase when the expander has been placed in injured areas: scarred, heavily irradiated or burned tissue, crushed bone areas, where severe surgical reduction of the area has previously been performed; and where steroids are used in the surgical pocket. Detailed information about indications, contraindications, warnings, and precautions associated with the use of ARTOURA® Breast Tissue Expanders CONTOUR PROFILE® Expanders are provided in the Instructions for Use (IFU) available online at www.mentorwwllc.com

259827-231010

© Mentor Worldwide LLC 2023

Posted on

Santa Bass shares 10 holiday gift ideas for those who love fishing

2023-11-08T08:01:00

(BPT) – Has your favorite angler been naughty or nice this past year? Santa Bass knows all, so you better be good! For the coming holiday season, Santa Bass offers 10 incredible gift ideas and stocking stuffers that will surely bring a smile to your favorite angler.

1. Clean a mess of fish fast – Every now and then, some anglers like to keep their catch for a nice shore lunch or dinner. It sounds fun, until you face the messy job of cleaning fish. Not anymore! High-quality, heavy-duty lithium electric fillet knives make fast work of fish cleaning, and they’re great for other meats, too.

2. Protection from the sun – If your favorite angler spends a lot of time in the sun — on a boat, in a kayak, or fishing from a pier or shore, they need to be covered up to protect their skin from the harmful effects of UV rays. Hooded shirts designed for anglers of all ages are great looking, provide moisture-wicking performance, and offer UPF 50+ UV sun protection along with moisture-wicking performance.

3. Warm and dry – If you put your time in on the water fishing, eventually, you’re going to get wet. It’s not a matter of if, it’s just a matter of when. Having a reliable rain jacket and bibs designed for extreme conditions by the nation’s top anglers is essential if you’re going to spend time on the water.

4. Fish like a pro bass angler – For anglers who want to fish what the pros fish, consider a fishing lure actually created by one of the top bass fishing pros in the nation, Bassmaster Classic champion Ott DeFoe. Designed in DeFoe’s garage, the Rapala OG Rocco is a buoyant, round balsa bait with a square circuit board lip that has been proven in the nation’s top bass tournaments.

5. No more fish “tales” – No doubt, you’ve heard the stories about “the big one.” And each year, the big one gets a little bigger. Keep your favorite angler honest with a 50 lb. Touch Screen Fish Scale designed for anglers. It’s easy to use to weigh and track one’s catch.

6. Keep your angler warm – A lot of anglers like to get up early to start fishing. Keep your angler warm and cozy with a thick, soft hoodie that’s perfect for those crisp, cool mornings.

7. Get organized – Is your angler kind of disorganized? Lures and tools all over the boat, in the garage, or in the ice fishing house? The SmartHub system by Rapala helps anglers get more organized, which means more time fishing.

8. Tools to get the job done right – Pliers, scissors, forceps, knife sharpener, clippers, hook sharpener, lantern. For anglers to stay on top of their game, they need some essential, high-quality tools to keep their gear in tip-top shape, as well as tools that can stand up to the elements, in freshwater or saltwater.

9. Stocking stuffers – Looking for some less expensive (under $25) gift ideas to stuff into your favorite angler’s stocking? How about a speaker to listen to some tunes? A fish counter? A deck of cards or a stocking cap? Or, the world’s all-time best-selling fishing lure?

10. Ice trolling – And lastly, if you live in the Ice Belt of the country and enjoy ice fishing, here’s a seriously good gift idea that will save you lots of time and is good for the environment. Serious ice anglers drill lots of holes, and to accomplish that, they need a proven, electric ice auger and drill that gets the job done fast. It’s called ice trolling. Santa Bass recommends the StrikeMaster Lithium 40V auger and Lite-Flite Lazer™ Drill Unit to get to walleye, crappie, bluegill, and pike during hardwater season.