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Whew! Mission accomplished. Two weeks on the road to Oregon and Washington to help the folks get their lot ready to sell. Despite dealing with hail, rain, hard labor and my father getting his first speeding ticket (that made for a few uncomfortable moments) there were bright spots where the sun peaked out and we reconnected with old friends and relatives.
I have to say, the drive home on Sunday was fun because there was a car show going on somewhere. We saw what I think was a 1937 Ford pickup, a 1951 Oldsmobile, and an old Studebaker and many more classics driving along the highway. As we’d pass these folks I started thinking about the Belmont Concours d’Eleganza – a car and motorcycle show and competition taking place in Fresno on June 6, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Belmont Country Club.
This event is special to me because proceeds from the silent auction benefit Terry’s House, a place where families can stay while their loved ones receive critical care at Community Regional Medical Center.
While driving to work the other day I noticed some new car campers and motor homes parked near the campus. That means there are families “camping” so they can be near a sick loved one. Oh, how they could use Terry’s House right now. It is exciting that construction has begun on the project – see the web cam of the progress – but, since Terry’s House is being built and will be maintained entirely with private gifts and contributions, events like this and your generosity are more important than ever before.
So, join me and my family by taking your “future classic” for a spin on Sunday. Then, enjoy bidding on everything from a replica of Gary Scelzi’s racing helmet (now that’s a guy who knows cars – four-time National Hot Rod Association champion and a judge at the car show), various sports memorabilia and plenty of other items to help Terry’s House.
Also, after my long travels last week, it will feel nice to put on some comfortable shoes and walk. I like that, get a nice walk in, bid on an item or two to raise some money, enjoy some great cars and company. You can’t beat that for a way to spend a Sunday back home in Fresno.
For more information on the Belmont Concours d’Eleganza log on to http://thebelmontconcours.com/
To learn more about Terry’s House or to make a donation, log on to www.TerrysHouseFresno.com.
Feel free to comment below why you give or have given to Terry’s House!
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Are you looking to get six-pack abs? Tired of slicing and dicing all of those vegetables every night for dinner? Is that "stuffed to the gills" closet getting you down? Well, worry no more ....
OK admit it; you too have been lured by the enticing promise of the “As Seen on TV” advertisements that air around the clock on virtually every channel. They're now available in some of your favorite stores.
Whether you were in a state of insomnia at 2 a.m. or attracted to the brightly colored packaging at your local drug store, these products could just be the cure to something that has been bugging the heck out of you around the house.
I recently watched a woman on one of the morning television news shows who was busily reviewing some of these items. She couldn't wait to tell you if something actually worked! I was hooked.
I have to admit to succumbing to the temptation to buy several times. Our house has some knives, storage containers and cleaning materials to prove it. Whether or not they work, well, we won't go there.
I just find it fascinating the power of television. Here at Community Medical Centers we have something that is powerful in a much more impactful way. No purchase necessary.
It features true stories about Community physicians, nurses and staff as they go about the business of saving lives or improving the quality of lives of those they serve. It's called, "Healthcare Heroes."
Every Sunday evening my family settles in to a "real life" look at what it takes to make people feel better. At times it can be a little unsettling to watch, but most of the time it is inspiring.
So, to those who have been a part of the show, both care givers and patients, thank you for "as seen on TV" that makes a real difference.
But WAIT, that's not all (couldn't resist!), you also get a chance to brag because it's something positive about Fresno and Clovis that is seen nationally. You've got to love that.
You'll also receive expert advice in the comfort of your easy chair.
No need to order now (it's free!), just tune in Sunday, 5 p.m. on ABC30, in the Fresno market or check your local listings.
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It's been awhile since I've felt like a kid in a candy store. You know that feeling, so many choices and you just can't decide which one you want!
When I was a kid there was a little candy cart down the street from our home. I used to love those candy necklaces they would make. If I earned a little bit of money I would sneak over there to get one. Of course, one day my mother busted me when I had forgotten to take the necklace off when I got home. To make it worse I told her I never left the yard. When she asked me where I got that necklace around my neck I knew my cover was blown. Never have been able to fib my way out of anything since. Anyway, I digress.
I bring that up because I was faced with a delightful dilemma recently. It was time for me to renew my employee giving pledge to Community Medical Foundation. I've always believed in giving back to where I work and I've never felt stronger about it than here at Community.
My problem wasn't whether or not to give - it was where to give. I looked at the many options and so many of them touch me. There's the amazing expansion going on at Clovis Community Medical Center, Terry's House will benefit so many in our region and so will everything from Burn and Level 1 trauma services to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Neurosciences Center of Excellence and cardiovascular services.
It really is like being a kid in a candy store. There's so many wonderful things happening here and we all get to play a part in making them happen. The phrase, "Believing all is within reach," fits Community employees. So, do like I did and decide on one and the others you're passionate about will get your pledge the next go around. What a great way to feel good about where you work and supporting your colleagues.
I hope when it comes time for you to consider renewing or making your first pledge you'll enjoy the process as much as I did. Now that I'm finished, I think I'll go find me one of those old candy necklaces for old times' sake!
Are you a Community employee who has given back? Comment below and share what moved you to give.
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Okay, I haven’t blogged in awhile. Shame on me, because I love chatting with you here on the blogosphere. I think our rainy, coldish winter (okay, I grew up in Alaska so I have to put it into perspective – my Alaskan friends would laugh that I now think 40 is freezing!) and demands at home and work kept me from sitting down and enjoying my time with you.
Well, as I await the start of a weekend and the first day of spring it’s time to put life back into perspective. My folks had the right idea last weekend. They took my dog Max to a rather famous local dairy for some ice cream while I stayed home and worked. Who had the better day? The work still waits for me and the rest of the family came back with smiles and full tummies.
It was a busy week here at Community Medical Centers as the Deran Koligian Ambulatory Care Center had its grand opening and staff at Community Regional Medical Center did a stellar job giving patients top-notch care while dealing with a water issue.
I couldn’t be prouder of the people I work with and I think each and every one of them deserves a double scoop of their favorite frozen dessert (tell your spouse to treat you!) and a little time outdoors since spring has sprung. Ah, ice cream, sunshine and time with loved ones, now that’s having your priorities straight.
What flavor of ice cream are you treating yourself to and do you have any tips to help us relax this spring? Please share.
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My how time flies! Especially when you realize time may have run out for you if it weren't for some good doctors and some diligence on your part.
It’s been more than five years now since I found out I was born with a heart defect and needed open heart surgery to replace my aortic valve. I have to admit that I was terrified. I had one doctor tell me the valve may have had about a year-and-a-half left on it. Another doctor estimated it may have been able to squeak by for five years. Yikes! If either of them were correct, I wouldn't be writing this today. Sobering thought. I'm grateful my doctor insisted that I get an echocardiogram and see a Community cardiologist.
I go for regular heart check-ups at University Cardiovascular Center and I have to admit that each time I have an echocardiogram - it is reassuring to hear that swoosh, swoosh, sound and know my heart is beating stronger than ever.
With the help of the team at University Cardiovascular Center I'm ready for whatever lies ahead and know there's a reason I had this problem. I'm supposed to share it with you so you take action or help someone you love.
Community has some amazing cardiologists and cardiac surgeons available for patients. As American Heart Month comes to a close I asked the first female cardiology fellow at Community Regional Medical Center to help me inspire other women to take charge of their heart health so they can fight the No. 1 killer of women.
Dr. Grace Huang says there are a lot of things doctors can do for patients these days, if the patient will get in early.
“With women and heart disease there is a lack of recognition by the public of how big the problem is,” said Dr. Huang. “Women often display different symptoms for a heart attack than men.”
Some of those symptoms include:
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea/vomiting
- Arm, back or jaw pain
- Dizziness
- Swollen ankles
- Cold sweat or lightheadedness
- Chest discomfort
Dr. Huang says since women are often the caregivers in the family they must take the time to care for themselves so they can be there for others.
“Many women don’t pay attention to their own health and risk factors such as diabetes, obesity and high cholesterol put them at risk,” said Huang. “Exercising and getting these conditions under control is not only good for your heart, but will also help you fight off osteoporosis, high blood pressure and other health conditions.”
Dr. Huang practices what she preaches. Even though the fellowship is stressful and helping patients is her passion, she recommends women plan time for themselves to de-stress.
“Watching your diet, exercising and planning some private time can help your heart health.”
So, even if you haven't been to the doctor for awhile, don't delay. I did and it almost cost me dearly. Instead, I get to celebrate life and the fact that there are some healthcare specialists in the Valley that care and don't let stubborn patients have the last word.
Time does matter and the sooner you take action the longer you'll have to enjoy the special people in your life.
Click here for more information about Community Cardiology services
Comment below and share your heart health tips or how you took charge of your heart disease.
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It seems a lot of people are asking the question, “Who am I?” these days. Sure, we all ask that during major life-changing events, but businesses and cities can do the same thing, right?
Take Fresno for example. Many feel the city is in the midst of an identity crisis. If you’re like me, you feel Fresno really gets a bad rap in national polls, is the brunt of late night talk show host jokes and we aren’t happy with locals who refuse to believe they have it pretty nice here.
There are those working to help Fresno change its image. I wish them luck and I think we can all help by focusing on all of the positives in this fine city. One of them is Community Medical Centers. Here at Community we are always interested in checking the pulse of those who live here to find out what they think of us.
I came to work here because I felt a calling to the mission: To improve the health status of the community and to promote medical education. After decades in the news business I loved the fact that my writing and video skills could now be used to educate others and raise funds to help bring the best-of-the-best here to Fresno. It was also reassuring to know that everyone from my elderly relatives to a great-niece or nephew would have access to amazing health care and not be turned away. There are roughly 6,000 other employees who likely feel like I do.
So, I thought this would be a good time to hear from you. What makes you proud of Community Medical Centers? I have a couple of questions below I’d love for you to complete for me. Just go to the “Leave a Comment” box below to send in your thoughts on any or all of these questions.
If I had to describe in one or two words what Community Medical Centers means to me they would be:
My favorite thing about Community Medical Centers is:
As a former patient or family member of a patient, I feel Community Medical Centers:
We may not have the “catchiest” name in the world, but I believe Community has the best employees, compassionate physicians and staff and care second-to-none in the region. This proud Fresnan looks forward to hearing from you and thanks in advance for your thoughts.
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Okay, can I brag a little this week? I have the cutest and most talented dog in the world!
I can just hear you now saying, “No you don’t, mine is!” Everyone thinks their dog is the most loyal and greatest pooch anyone could have. I love my Max because no matter what mood I’m in he’s always there to greet me with his tail wagging, toy between teeth and paws pulling a “Flintstone” on the tile floor eager to share some time with me. All he asks for is some food, water, attention and well, you know, “breaks” outside.
I get a whole lot more in return. I swear he helps me keep my blood pressure at amazingly great levels just by looking up at me with those big brown eyes. And, it’s a true lesson in teamwork when we do the dozen-or-so (and counting) tricks that he likes to show off. I should video them and share them with you one day!
Anyway, experts are starting to recognize some of the health benefits your dog, cat, bird or goldfish give you each day. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention pet ownership can improve a few things:
- Encouraging increased regular exercise (okay maybe not the parakeet and goldfish)
- Decreased triglycerides
- Reduced feelings of loneliness
- More interaction with others and exposure to social activities
I believe them.
It works in the hospital, too. Four legged volunteers lift the spirits of patients and their families. Click here to meet a couple of our furry friends.
As I contemplate what to teach Max next, I’m sure I’ll be amazed at whatever lesson he’ll teach me. I have to admit that everyone who meets him falls in love with him. In fact, my folks are threatening to take me to court to seek custody of him. Good luck with that!
Do you have an inspiring pet therapy story? How about a pooch that makes your day and keeps you young (or at least feeling that way)? Comment below and share your story and make us all smile.
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The New Year may be well under way, but the debate over how to pronounce it appears to be far from over.
That quickly became the topic of discussion as I sat in the dentist chair this week for my teeth cleaning.
It always amazes me how dentists and hygienists can understand a word you say as they’re digging around in your mouth. Okay, I digress.
“Two thousand ten” or “twenty ten” I asked. My hygienist hadn’t made up her mind yet. She was leaning toward “two thousand ten” and asked me what I recommended. Well, I’m not the grammar police so I went in search of some recommendations. I found a very unique one.
The National Association of Good Grammar – yes, there is apparently such an association – believes 2010 should officially be pronounced “twenty ten” and all subsequent years should be pronounced as “twenty eleven,” “twenty twelve,” and so on. They make another good point. Back in the 1990’s we didn’t say one thousand nine hundred and ninety nine. Think about it.
You also will find sources that are in disagreement but, I’m inclined to save some syllables and go with “twenty ten.” How about you? Comment below and let me know what you are calling the New Year!
While we’re on the proper way to say things kick, how many times have you seen Community Medical Centers and its facilities misnamed. When you are proud to work for a place that helps so many people it can be disheartening. Don’t get me wrong, the names have changed quite a few times in past years so I understand some of the confusion. Also, I know that old habits are tough to break. When you’ve lived in a city your whole life – you will most likely stick with names you’ve used for decades.
I won’t quiz you, but here’s a link to Community facilities. Did you know the real names?
You can also comment below and let me know how you did or give me your feelings about this issue
In the meantime, in 2010 (however you say it) there’s plenty to look forward to. Terry’s House on the campus of Community Regional Medical Center is breaking ground in the days ahead, Clovis Community Medical Center is in the midst of an amazing expansion and I get to look forward to hearing more from you.
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