Extra!! Extra!! Read All About This

I have found something so awesome that I have to share it with you. Now this post is filled with great information, you must promise me that you will share this with everyone - someone you know may need to know about this. What's the big deal? Well, it's a cancer center that I have envisioned now available in the greatest city of the whole wide world - New York. The Farber Center for Radiation Oncology is an excellent patient focused cancer facility in New York City. The moment you walk in, you are greeted warmly and what's even more amazing is that you feel more like you have entered into an oasis. You are definitely not in your typical cancer clinic or treatment facility where you wait for a long period of time to be seen by your doctor. Of course there may be a delay but that is not the norm as you will see for yourself that the waiting room area is not crowded. I can go on and on as I have visited this cancer center and I love it but I have to allow you to experience it for yourself.

What sets the Farber Center apart from the other facilities is not only their top of the line spa like environment but they have the state of the art technology which is a sought after treatment, by the rich and famous who travel to Europe to get the best - and you deserve the best. It gets better, they have partnered with Urben Zen to provide Integrative therapy to all of their patients on treatment which includes specific yoga therapies, Reiki therapy, and Oil therapy that deal with different aspects of the symptoms of all diseases. Urben Zen has designed the following yoga therapies to assit with the symptoms of pain, anxiety, nausea, insomnia, constipation and exhaustion. These therapies will now be provided at The Farber Center for Radiation Oncology and I am so excited!

Here's a direct snatch from their blog - once your cancer treatment is over The Farber Center for Radiation Oncology has joined forces with Urban Zen’s integrative therapy program (UZIT) and created OHE (optimal healing environment) classes to create a place/space where you can explore the issues that brought you treatment and to do what you can to prevent you or your loved ones from going through it again.

The 4-week integrative program is targeted to EMPOWER the cancer patent to get the best treatment of mind, body and sprit.

Program:
Initial consultation: with one of our physicians to review the overall scope of the program, the concept of functional medicine, heart disease, diabetes, obesity, “knowing your numbers,” and introduction of “Daily Health Log.” There are no out of pocket expenses for Farber Center patients.

Week 1: Nutrition/Zen*
Discuss various dietary options and specific guidelines for CA patients, esp related to preventing recurrences. Dieting,Supplements, Juicing, Fiber, etc.

Week 2: Movement/Zen*
Explore physical activity with emphasis on yoga

Week 3: Mind/Body/Zen*
Tools for stress reduction and empowerment

Week 4: Guest Lectures/Zen*
Nutrition, Stress Reduction, Adrenal Fatigue,Inflammation, Immunity,

*Zen: each week will include guided meditation and yoga practice with therapist from the Urban Zen integrative therapy program. The UZIT program is a 12 month program that includes training in yoga therapy, essential oil therapy, Reiki, nutrition, and contemplative care giving to addresses the key patient symptoms of PANIC- pain, anxiety, nausea, insomnia, constipation, and exhaustion.

To find out more about the program please contact The Farber Center at (212) 300-0663







The Farber Center Blog

Now here's a beautiful ending to this great news - they accept almost all insurances (call them and ask) (212) 300-0663

Remove the Mask of Domestic Violence

 

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month and Dr. Maiysha Clairborne of Mind Body Spirit Wellness is taking a stand to further expose this issue that has held so many captive with the embarrassment and secrecy - enduring domestic violence. Dr. Clairborne is hosting an event that will benefit the Georgia Coalition Against Domestic Violence.

As a survivor, I have spoken out on many occasions of the effects of being abused by someone you have entrusted with your life and love. I removed the mask many years ago in a public forum when I spoke at an event with Dr. Jane Goldman in New York. Since that time, I have spoken to women and teenagers from homeless shelters to those who are on the welfare to work programs; I have spoken to college students and professionals and I can tell you that domestic violence has no boundaries – it can happen to anyone.

As fate would have it, I worked on a research project with Dr. Delores Gayle Thompson who at the time was the Chief of Pediatrics at Harlem Hospital. I was a student intern and no one knew anything of my own connection to domestic abuse (relationship). Dr. Thompson was doing a research project - Domestic Abuse and the effects on the Growth and Development of Children. I took on the assignment and began to conduct surveys, spoke with parents, children, interviewed social workers, police officers, District Attorneys, clergy, collected statistic data and submitted my findings/report to Dr. Thompson and the New York State Department of Health. By the end of this assignment, I received an award from the New York State Department of Health – I had removed the mask and explored the issues of domestic violence.

Dr. Clairborne is  promoting prevention, education, advocacy, cooperation, and empowerment to the various health care and advocacy communities. The event will connect health care providers & community advocates with the GCADV, an organization that can provide the resources and intervention strategies that will help end and even prevent domestic violence in homes and families.

Are you a survivor? I am :-)

More on this event - REMOVING THE MASK

Do It Your Way?

We all have choices to make and I would love to make a few suggestions as you work to improve on your health and wellness.

I take great pride in making the declaration that I dance to the beat of my own drum and I really do. I consider myself to be one who loves life, enjoys being a mother even though it has some turbulent moments which we always manage to sustain. I love being a wife and a friend to my King that's what I call my husband :-) I have raised my children to be respectful, love life and to be a positive source with their time here on earth. I am what my parents would call their wild child. I was raised in a house with strict rules, we never missed a church service and could not wear pants. Somehow, I managed to be the rebel with my own cause getting spankings along the way and not one to be disrespectful, I just could not help myself - I had to be me. Now that I am a parent, I have a greater appreciation for my own parents yet I also understand my children as I see myself reflected through them (times 100). Don't smile, I can handle it.

There is joy in living life with an understanding of your own self. Take time to enjoy life. Be patient with your children, think of the child that you were and if by chance you were perfect, then forgive your children for their imperfections. Be a guide, express your concern. Let them know that you want to see them succeed. It's in no way easy watching them make the wrong choices but never let them feel that they are alone. Be the balance. Do not condone or make excuses for their bad behavior - call them out on it. You will be better off as it keeps you out of the denial/enabler category. Your child may not want to go to college, encourage them to become the best in whatever interests them (except for the illegal forms of making quick money which leads them to prison/grave). My relationship with my King works not only because we love and respect each other but also because we work out our disagreements without the intervention of others and we make time to do things that we love together and maintain our own individual activities.

You will be over the moon with a love of life once you are able to balance your life. Keep in touch with your friends or make new friends if your friends have moved or you have grown apart, it happens. Get a hobby or join a new club. Be active and make time to exercise. You do not have to join a gym, turn on the tv and work it out. Watch your portion size. You should see me working out frantically to shed these excess pounds before the holidays, they just don't belong on this frame of mine besides I have far too many cute items hanging in my closet waiting to make their grand return. If you have access to Veria TV you should check it out, it is a great resource of all things health and wellness. You will find great cooking recipes and programs to work out and at your own level.

Now with all that said on how you should do it your way, I would like to admit that as a child who did not like being in church every time the doors opened, I appreciate the teachings as they have kept me grounded. I am a better person for the lessons I have learned from my parents. I am often praying and meditating on the teachings of the bible. I believe that we have all been assigned to live and while we are here, we need to make the best of it. We are all here to fulfill a purpose and cannot do that if we try to be a duplication of someone else and you will know that because it wont feel right. Be still and ask for guidance, you will know it as it will come to you. I hope that you will make the best of it for years to come. Go ahead and do it your way!

Losing A Huge Part of the Family - Your Family Pet

Recently I wrote about death and the post How Do You Handle Death? covered the loss of a family or friend. Many have read and shared this post with others. I have even received emails of condolences. In the last two weeks, I attended two wakes and one funeral. Death as we all know is such a difficult transition for everyone.

It was just a little over a week ago that my husband Butch had to take Zoe to the veterinarian. Zoe a Presa Canario was a gorgeous, loving dog who was the joy of the family. She was a large muscular dog who weighed about 145 lbs. and had a look that would scare the beejesus out of anyone. She was a protective member of the family. She would put everyone on alert whether it is for the family to know that someone is approaching the house or to let the visitor know that the house is under her protection.

On the other hand, Zoe in all of her regal stature, loved to play and wag her heavy tail with excitement which could feel like a whipping when all is said and done. It was clear that Zoe loved her family as much as she was loved. It was noticeable that something was not quite right as she seemed to slow down. Butch took her to the veterinarian on Thursday and waited for word on her diagnosis. On Friday, he was told that they would run some tests on Zoe and get back to him. By Saturday morning, the call came in that Zoe was not doing well and she would not make it through the day. The family got together and headed over to the Veterinarian's to say good bye. Zoe died minutes before the family arrived. It was a very sad moment.

Losing a pet is also a major loss, there is no replacing your pet. It leaves a void in the family as they mourn the loss. The best way to cope with losing your pet is to keep the memories going. Remember the time when she/he did something quite funny or unusual that made you laugh. While some may think you can always buy another dog, which is true yet nothing takes the place of the pet who shared so many moments of your life. Each dog has it's own personality and Zoe had something that everyone can share their own personal connection to her. The memories of Zoe and all of her Marmaduke like moments will forever be a part of my memories of her. She was simply the best!

Zoe: 3/19/02 - 10/8/11

“Oral Healthcare Can’t Wait™” Part II

Keeping up with the National Oral Hygiene Awareness Month

A special word from Dr. Catrise Austin of VIP Smiles on why you should care about your smile and not put off that much needed dental appointment not 1 more day!

If you are in New York, here's your chance to catch her at Hue-Man Bookstore this Monday Oct 10th at 6 pm for FREE dental advice, giveaways, and a copy her book "5 Steps to a Hollywood A-List Smile" :) You don't want to miss this!!!

“Oral Healthcare Can’t Wait™”

We have explored many areas of health and wellness and with all the focus on Breast Cancer Awareness, we have a very important health awareness topic that is often overlooked although it is extremely essential to our health and wellness - the care of our teeth. Our guest blogger, Dr. Catrise Austin is known as the celebrity dentist and what's even more impressive is her great personality and her amazing smile.

October Kick’s off National Dental Hygiene Month: Dr. Catrise Austin says
“Oral Healthcare Can’t Wait™”

There’s no denying that the last 3 years have been tough financially for many Americans nationwide. As a result, the current economic climate is causing many people to either postpone their much needed dental treatment recommended by their dentists, or to put off their dental visits altogether. But here’s what you really need to know, a healthy mouth can not only save you money in future dental bills, but can keep you in good overall health. There are serious long-term health risks associated with postponing oral care which is the reason why I’ve joined a new campaign stressing the fact that “Oral Healthcare Can’t Wait™”!

The #1 concern that I’m hearing is “I can’t afford dentistry right now”. Well folks my response to that is you can’t afford NOT to go to the dentist! Some of the risks to ignoring those dental check-up reminder calls and postcards from your dental team and skipping your next dental visit include the following:

* Tooth decay is a progressive disease. Postponing treatment can lead to more complex, more traumatic, and more expensive treatment, such as root canals or extractions.

* Tooth decay is a communicable disease. Your untreated cavities can be spread to your loved ones.

* There are 120 diseases, including early signs of HIV infection, oral herpes virus, and oral cancer that can be detected while sitting in the dental chair. Some of these diseases can be asymptomatic. Postponing your checkup could prevent the opportunity for early detection and treatment.

* Recent studies have linked undiagnosed and untreated gum disease with a negative impact on patients’ heart health, diabetes, pregnancy, and other systemic health conditions.

* Chronic bad breath is usually due to conditions that may be easily prevented by regular oral hygiene appointments and consultation.

If more people realized this, I believe they would prioritize their discretionary spending accordingly. Choosing between undergoing gum disease or cavity treatment versus buying a new cell phone, wireless computer pad, weekly professional hair and nail grooming, or taking expensive vacations would become a no-brainer. I’m going to let you in on a little a secret…..It doesn’t take a million bucks to have a great smile! It’s true. With modern dentistry, today we have more options than ever to care for our smiles. Just stroll down the toothpaste isle of your local grocery store or pharmacy and you’ll be amazed with the tools and products available to give you what I’ve coined as an “A-List” Smile. In my private practice in New York City, I offer affordable options to costly veneers, braces, implants, and 1 hour teeth whitening. I’m encouraging everyone to take charge of their dental health and make it a priority. It’s simple. All you have to do is follow a few simple rules and you’ll be able to boast a smile that will radiate as bright as the stars!

Here are my top 5 tips that can give you a great smile throughout the year:

1. Follow this smile workout at least twice daily:
Brush, Floss, Rinse, and Scrape (or Brush) your tongue to keep your gums and teeth healthy and your breath fresh.
2. Drink fluoridated tap water or use a fluoride mouthwash to fight cavities
3. Read the nutritional facts on packaged food/beverage labels:
Pay special attention to the hidden sugar in your food and drinks to avoid cavities.
4. Need to rejuvenate your dull smile? Try teeth whitening!
Consider refreshing your look using the Crest 3D White Collection (less than $100)! Brush for 2 minutes daily with the Oral B 3D Pulsar Toothbrush and Crest 3D White Vivid Toothpaste, then rinse daily with the Crest 3D White Multicare Whitening Mouthrinse,
then add that dazzle and by using the Crest 3D White Professional Effects Whitestrips (the most effective of all Crest Whitestrips) once daily for 30 minutes (for 3-7 days). If you want to quickly whiten your smile try Crest 3D White 2 Hour Express Whitestrips
($54.99, 4 whitening strips) deliver a noticeably whiter smile in just 2 hours. Apply once for 2 hours and get noticeable results that last for three months. Each kit contains 4 treatments so you can keep your smile bright for a whole year.
5. Never say to yourself, “My teeth don’t hurt. I don’t need to see a dentist.”
You can’t have a great smile without the help of your dental team. Although there are many tools available to maintain your smile in
the comforts of your own home, nothing replaces visiting your dental team every 6 months for your gum evaluation, professional
cleaning, and cavity check.

Mother Teresa once said “Every time you smile at someone, it is an action of love, a gift to that person, a beautiful thing.” I agree, your smile is indeed your gift and having great teeth has more benefits than you could ever imagine. A recent study revealed that people who have beautiful smiles are perceived as more successful, intelligent, interesting, wealthy, attractive and popular with the opposite sex. So, if you've been guilty of putting off your next dental exam and professional cleaning, Remember “Oral Healthcare Can’t Wait™” and it’s never too late to take charge of your dental health!

For more smile tips and your VIP pass to dental resources, pick up my new book “5 Steps to the Hollywood A-List Smile: How the stars get that perfect smile and how you can too!” today.

About Dr. Catrise Austin

As the first private practice dentist in the nation certified to offer HIV testing to patients while in the dental chair, Dr. Catrise Lynette Austin is a trailblazing expert in the field of dentistry. She is an author, professional speaker, entrepreneur, and founder of VIP Smiles-a modern dental practice in New York City. Notable celebrities such as X-Factor Judge Paula Abdul; Dancing With The Stars dancers Karina Smirnoff and Maksim Chmerkovskiy; Apprentice Diva Omarosa; HBO’s Entourage Actor Rex Lee; Songstress Toni Braxton; TV talk show host Wendy Williams; Food Network Chef Sunny Anderson; Dallas Cowboy tight end Martellus Bennett, 2010 Olympic gold medalist Ashleigh McIvor, and Grammy Award-winning rapper/actor/author Common (to name a few) have all placed their teeth in her capable hands. Austin is an award-winning dentist and columnist who has solidified her reputation in her field with national radio as well as national TV appearances on The Discovery Health Channel, Today Show, and Good Morning America, among others. Dr. Austin is available for local and national interviews, as well as speaking engagements on dental health, HIV testing in the dental office, entrepreneurship, careers in dentistry, and improving your image with your smile. For more information contact Dr. Catrise Austin at 212-262-6054 or visit www.vipsmiles.com