VIP Magazine

Author: vipmagsc

  • Grace DuBose’s Journey with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma

    Grace DuBose’s Journey with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma

    Bringing Confidence to Women Through Jewelry

    story by Jordan Pupa

        At just six weeks old, Grace DuBose was diagnosed with an extremely rare blood vessel tumor called Kaposiform Hemangioendothelioma. She had less than a 10 percent chance of living. However, by the grace of God, she survived. Later in life, at the young age of 24, Grace was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. Her situation of battling cancer could lead to feelings of defeat, however, Grace’s positive attitude throughout her journey has inspired her to help others. Grace started a jewelry line, Glam & Grace, aimed to increase confidence in women through simple, fun pieces of jewelry that will make them feel fabulous!

        Grace was born and raised in Florence, where she graduated from West Florence High School then later from the University of South Carolina with a degree in Theatre and Broadcast Communications. It wasn’t until college that she developed a real relationship with God. She shares, “I battled with depression in college and after trying many ways to help cope with that depression I found that I was losing hope, so I decided to turn to God. The only place I felt hope and happiness was going to a local church, and that’s when I truly began to experience what it meant to have a relationship with Jesus.” Grace joined a bible study, found a mentor, and found herself turning to Christ, especially during tough times. Two years later she felt herself drifting away and turned to God for answers as she struggled to find her purpose in life. Grace had dreams of being an actress, though that dream faded and led her to feeling confused and hopeless. “I asked God to help me make a decision for my future because I felt lost,” she explains. “Most importantly, I asked him to come back in my life again, to change my life somehow, to do something. Little did I know that ‘something’ would be cancer.”

        Grace was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma on May 21, 2018. Two months prior she noticed a swollen lymph node near her collarbone. A cat scan was done and bloodwork was taken. The cat scan revealed a cluster of enlarged lymph nodes. A biopsy lead to the final diagnosis of Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. “It was the weirdest thing because I remember I had no fear,” explains Grace. “Well, I did have one fear and that was losing my hair, but other than that, I felt fine. In that moment I remember feeling complete peace in my heart that only God can give. It was unexplainable. I just knew that I was meant to go through this. It’s part of my purpose that I was looking to find.” Grace currently receives chemo treatments every two weeks with two treatments left. Then, three weeks of radiation will follow.

        Creativity runs in Grace’s family. She turned to jewelry-making as a fun craft after chemo days due to not being able to read or watch TV because of nausea. “Since being diagnosed with this cancer, I have gained weight, lost some of my hair, and have been exhausted,” says Grace. “I have felt horrible about myself. I have struggled with self-confidence.” After much sadness, she realized she had a choice. She could either allow the cancer to destroy her self-confidence, or she could change her perspective. Her change of attitude led her to develop a new jewelry line called Glam & Grace, with hopes of bringing confidence to many other women no matter their personal situation through fabulous jewelry pieces. Each piece is handmade and original. You can currently find Glam & Grace at Pieces in Florence.

        Grace is still trying to figure out how to use all her passions to make a difference in the world. She hopes to start selling Glam & Grace in other boutiques in different cities. She also wants to continue to give back to others. She has helped out with the youth group at First Presbyterian for multiple years and hopes to get involved with a cancer organization in the future. “As far as changes go, I hope to really start focusing on taking action and making some kind of difference. I’ve learned through this experience that each day is a gift. If you have a drive to make a difference, don’t hold back!”

    Grace & Glam  can be purchased at:

    Pieces Boutique, 1228 Celebration Blvd, Florence

    Blush –  A Merle Norman Studio, 115 N. 5th St.,  Hartsville

     

  • Girls In Science

    Girls In Science

    GSSM’s Girl UP Organization

    story by GSSM student, Madelyne LeVassiur

        Chances are you’ve seen the groups of teenagers that swarm downtown Hartsville on Friday nights, or caught a glimpse of high school students that jaywalk across a four-lane road. These are more than likely kids enrolled at the Governor’s School for Science and Mathematics (GSSM) – an intensely rigorous, residential high school which specializes in taking cream of the crop students from all across the state and preparing them for college and careers in STEM. Where kids who previously held class ranks in the single digits can embrace mediocrity.

        The academics at GSSM are an enormous draw to the school, students who apply are looking for the best education possible, but there is also more to GSSM than labs and Advanced Placement (AP) classes. Every student on campus is involved in extracurriculars, whether they play on one of the varsity athletic teams or are a member of the multitude of clubs that are offered. A club that stands out at GSSM is Girl Up.

        Girl Up is an organization that through a partnership with the United Nations works to improve the lives of girls internationally. Girls take the center stage in the effort to increase access to healthcare, offer educational opportunities, and instill leadership qualities into young women in need.

        “I joined Girl Up because I thought it would be a great chance to build a community of girls here and to contribute to empowering girls all over the world,” says Anaïs Lawson, a GSSM senior and treasurer of Girl Up.

        Previously, the club has collected supplies to donate to a local women’s shelter, and there are hopes of attending a women’s march in the future, along with fundraising events.

        “We have a never-ending goal of helping women in our local community. We want girls to know that we’re here for them even when they feel the world may not be,” says Lawson.

        In Hartsville where it’s nearly impossible to go out for coffee without being heckled by a passing car, it’s a relief to be able to feel a sense of belonging with those who have experienced the same hostilities. The residential aspect of the school furthers this feeling of community, and classmates become family. “The emotional stability we can provide for each other helps with the rigor of the school,” says Lawson.

        It’s important to cultivate the interest that many young girls have in STEM, especially in fields such as engineering and computer science where men hold the overwhelming majority. Stereotypes and antiquated gender roles are major influences in girls not engaging in STEM activities when they are young, and it is crucial for girls to be encouraged to explore their potential interests in science and math without unnecessary obstacles.

        “I think it’s important to close the gender gap in STEM fields in order to work towards eventually closing the gaps in achievement that have been caused by discrimination women have faced in the past,” says Randi Jennings, a junior member of Girl Up.

        As more women get involved, the amount of female role models will inspire new generations. Strides have been made in making opportunities themselves more available to women pursuing a career in science, now the focus should be on building interest and improving the environment that women scientists will walk into.

    Madelyne LeVassiur lives in Fort Mill, SC and is a junior attending GSSM. She enjoys biology, astronomy, and punk rock. After graduation, she hopes to travel the world.

  • Fashion Forecast

  • Bottle & Tap – Hartsville’s Craft Beer Destination

    Bottle & Tap – Hartsville’s Craft Beer Destination

    It’s a Celebration of Good Beer and Good People.

        A few years ago, the City of Hartsville started to boom. New businesses brought new opportunities and Hartsville became a place where people wanted to plant their roots. After enjoying a few craft beers during a brainstorming session with Mayor Mel Pennington, the Wholesale Wine and Spirits team realized there was a void in the area for craft beer for the changing Hartsville population. The idea for Bottle and Tap came along. Shortly after, the guys at West Oil Company brought the vision to life. Fortunately, they had a unique location positioned adjacent to the Shell station on South 5th Street in Hartsville where they could create a quality environment that catered to the craft beer customer with both retail and on-premise products. Bottle & Tap was opened by West Oil Company in June of 2015 under the guidance of its Wholesale Wine & Spirits Division. 

        The craft beer venture started off by primarily providing packaged products and growlers for take home consumption, but over time the atmosphere seemed to win over the hearts of regulars as it slowly became a place they wanted to stay a while. The business continued to thrive and expand. Today, their concept is simple and is something craft beer drinkers needed in Hartsville for a long time… an inviting atmosphere to explore the world of craft beer with good company, all under one roof.

        You can join them at the bar where you can find a draft station with twelve rotating taps of some of the most unique beer available in the area. You can even sample the freshly poured beer on tap before you order. At Bottle and Tap you can grab a pint or flight to enjoy on-premise, or if you stumble on something you love, you can order a growler to-go to enjoy later at home. They maintain over 100 unique packaged craft beers, and you can try out a single bottle from the cooler, which is stocked with 75 options to choose from. You can even customize your selection with a “mix and match” six pack from the cooler, or any size pack for that matter! They also keep a small selection of wine and cider for the non-craft beer consumer and free popcorn with several flavor topping options, which is known to be a serious crowd-pleaser! Their top-notch hospitality doesn’t end there. They will gladly look into bringing in special order beer for customers that they cannot find within the area.   

        To top it off, they offer happy hour every Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday from 4-7 p.m. featuring discounted draft beer and the famous Hartsville Markette donut holes. (You have to try these local bites!) They host Tap Takeover events inviting local brewery representatives as their beers are featured on tap. Customers are able to try the beer and discuss them on the spot with the people that make them. Food Truck Fridays are also a popular end of the week event. Their newly renovated modern patio features a 60″ television, outdoor speakers and patio lighting creating a relaxing atmosphere. Their interior space includes cozy couches, ample table top seating, music, and two 50″ TVs, with sports on regularly, especially college football!

        There is truly something charming and endearing about a small shop attached to a gas station and the experience they are able to provide. When you visit, be prepared to be overwhelmingly pleased with all the available options, talk beer with the friendly staff, and meet some new folks. Bottle and Tap is more than just a bottle shop, more than a craft beer bar, but is a celebration of beer and good people.

    Bottle and Tap is happy to offer their establishment as a place for parties and events. They can also provide full kegs for off-site events. For more information about upcoming events, follow them on Facebook at @BottleandTapSC.

    621 S. 5th St. Hartsville | 843-309-9522

    bt1@wholesalewineandspirits.com | bottleandtapsc.com

  • Festive Wreaths – Deck Your Door!

  • In the Kitchen

    In the Kitchen

    Sweet Potato Salad with Toasted Pecans

    Step 1:  Roasted Sweet Potatoes

    4 medium sweet potatoes, cleaned and cut in 1/2 inch cubes

    3 medium shallots diced

    3 1/2 tbsp. vegetable oil 

    1 tsp. ground coriander 

    Pinch of cayenne pepper 

    Pinch of chili powder

    Salt and pepper to taste

    Toss all together and roast at 375o for 20 mins or until done.

    Step 2:  Roasted Pecans

    1/4 c. pecan pieces 

     I egg white whipped 

    3 tbsp. Brown sugar

    Salt to taste

    Toss all together and toast for 10-12 mins.

    Step 3:  Dressing

    2 tbsp. cider vinegar

    1 tbsp. Dijon mustard

    1 1/2 tbsp. honey

    1/2 tsp. ground cumin

    1/4 tsp. Smoked paprika

    1/4 c. extra-virgin olive oil

    Combine all ingredients together. Slowly emulsify oil in with other ingredients.

    Step 4:

    While potatoes are still warm, toss them in the vinaigrette. Garnish with toasted pecans.

    Recipe provided by Local Motive, 123 N Dargan St, Florence

  • Secondary Trauma

    Secondary Trauma

    A Silent Dilemma

    story by Meridith T. Graham, M.S., M.DIV, LMSW

        A few years ago, I was privileged to facilitate a vicarious trauma support group with first responders, including firemen, paramedics, military members, policemen, etc., who were receiving treatment for substance use disorders. These noble persons whom time and time again have put their lives on the line for others were experiencing trauma on a daily basis throughout years of service. I will never forget some of their profound statements:

    •  We see things people should never have to see

    •  When I am out with my family, I rarely enjoy it because I am constantly watching out for danger

    •  There are just some things that cannot be “unseen”

        More and more research is recognizing the need to address the impact of trauma on professionals and others who may become traumatized by situations they encounter on a day-to-day basis. Vicarious traumatization, or secondary trauma, is the cumulative impact of witnessing or engaging in the traumatic experiences and terror of others. It is nearly impossible to witness trauma on an ongoing basis and remain unchanged. Overtime, trauma affects one’s identity, beliefs, relationships, and psychological needs. This is because trauma always involves loss; and nothing seems normal afterwards. One also tends to lose their innate sense of safety, control, and personal values and beliefs may become distorted.

        It is essential to address experiences of secondary trauma that may lead to self-defeating behaviors such as substance dependence or mental illness.

        Conversing with first responders is an intriguing discussion. Their stamina, passion, and competency for the job is unwavering, but there also tends to be this “heavier, lonelier, and even darker side” that burdens them. One challenge in addressing secondary trauma in our communities and in the workplace is silence. A firefighter shared:

        “I cannot go into the firehouse talking about my feelings and how the last run or several runs shook me up. I will be told to ‘toughen up; it’s part of the job,’ and may be looked down upon by my peers. I’m definitely not dealing with that!”

        The dilemma then becomes to suffer in silence, which is maltreatment for those who put their lives on the line and take unimaginable risks every day.

        So what can we do to effectively address secondary trauma? To continue the silence will only lead to destructive behaviors, and, over time, those who suffer try to escape the tentacles of secondary trauma through addictions, substance use, and even suicide. Others find themselves struggling with mental illness, especially major depression or even symptoms of PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder). Over time, someone struggling with secondary trauma may accept their behaviors as “normal” because they become accustomed to them.

      Signs that someone may be struggling with secondary trauma include: the inability to feel pleasure, shutting down, numbness, hardness, overly vigilant, anxiety, increased use of alcohol and/or drugs, rejecting physical/emotional closeness, cynicism, lack of interest in hobbies, dissatisfaction, hopelessness, negative perception, low self-image/low motivation, or depersonalization.

        Secondary trauma compromises one’s self-efficacy and additional consequences of vicarious trauma include, but are not limited to:

    •  Resentment, trust issues, exhaustion

    •  Struggling with self-esteem

    •  Social withdrawal

    •  Nightmares

    •  Avoiding reminders or recall of the events

    •  Errors in professional boundaries or judgment

        Understanding how secondary trauma develops is important because it is not contingent upon one’s ego capacity or self-efficacy to handle difficult situations. Secondary trauma develops as a result of helping others. Secondary trauma is a natural human response of caring and knowing about the traumatic experiences of others.

        Secondary trauma is cumulative. Over time, the impact of witnessing trauma is unavoidable, and addressing the effects through self-awareness, self-care, connection, and balance is essential. In working through secondary trauma, the objective is to:

    •  Become aware of the impact of traumatic experiences

    •  Acknowledge personal vulnerabilities

    •  Apply self-care processes to counter the negative effects of trauma

        Factors that may determine the extent of Vicarious Trauma that one experiences include lack of resources and/or support; personal traumatic experiences; current life struggles (e.g. finances, divorce); and poor coping skills.

        You may ask, “How important is it to focus on Vicarious Trauma?” When a 911 call is received, first responders are there in minutes when the community needs help, even when it is a false alarm. But there is nothing false about Vicarious Trauma, and the impact and symptoms are undeniable. In time, Vicarious Trauma diminishes hope, idealism, and optimism; and those who continuously encounter survivors of trauma cannot afford to give up on hope. We have both a professional and personal obligation to address Vicarious Trauma; and it will be a dilemma to continue the silence.

     

    Meridith T. Graham is a behavioral health consultant at HopeHealth with experience in mental health issues including depression, anxiety, grief, sexual trauma, vicarious trauma, and other mood disorders. She is a licensed social worker in the states of South Carolina and Illinois.

  • Veronica Robertson

    Veronica Robertson

    Going with the Flow

    story by Ashley Elvington • photos by Ivana Reay-Jones Photography

         Many who happen to meet Veronica Robertson will agree that she is a ray of sunshine, exuberating joy and kindness and warmth that puts a soul at ease. Originally from Colombia, South America, it didn’t take long for Veronica to feel at home as many in Florence welcomed her with the open loving arms of a family, especially in Downtown Florence… But, more on that in a minute.

        Veronica and her family moved to Florence almost a decade ago when her husband accepted the position of Medical Director at McLeod Regional Medical Center’s Emergency Department. “We have found a home in Florence. Both of our daughters were born here and we are grateful for all of the opportunities the city of Florence has provided us. We are committed to this community and we expect to raise our family here and grow Flow Town Yoga.” Before she opened her own yoga studio, Veronica received 200 hours of yoga teacher training through Charleston Power Yoga in Charleston, South Carolina. Since then, she has completed a 500-hour yoga teacher advanced certification through the Kunga Yoga School at the Wilmington Yoga Center in Wilmington, North Carolina.

        She noticed that Florence was missing a yoga space led by trained and certified yoga instructors. Inspired to be the change the community needed, Veronica made plans to open her own studio in Downtown Florence. “I imagined a studio that offered varying formats, reaching individuals from a variety of populations and needs: seniors, children, males, females…from all backgrounds, body compositions and fitness levels. Anyone can find a class that fits their needs, from Senior Chair yogis to the Power Vinyasa yogis.” Doors opened in February 2017 and in less than two years, Flow Town Yoga has grown from offering 12 classes per week to over 32. “We now have two studio spaces in Downtown Florence, a heated room and a cool room. We feel honored to be a part of the development and growth of Downtown Florence.” Flow Town Yoga is now a Kunga Yoga affiliated studio and will soon be a Yoga Alliance registered school of yoga, the first of its kind in Florence. “We will train the next generation of yoga teachers who will share this beautiful practice with our community and beyond.”

        For Veronica, work weeks are easy to endure when you love what you do. “Yoga is accessible to everybody. It is not about the pose, but about what we learn in between. As we move through postures using our breath, we can find a place of calmness within ourselves where we can reflect and learn… Discovering tools that we own and can carry with us everywhere we go.” She enjoys teaching beginners, especially seniors. “Witnessing the growth and joy I see in others is amazing. By growth, I do not mean being able to do advanced, intricate yoga poses. It means being able to feel comfortable and powerful in their bodies… Being able to stand up from a chair using one’s own strength, being able to move confidently, to reconnect with your body and the present moment… Watching students walk out of the yoga room renewed, smiling and confident. Knowing we help in any little way to get them to that place, is very rewarding.”

    Flow Town Yoga | 152 S. Dargan Street,  Heated Studio | 127 N. Dargan Street, Cool Studio | Downtown Florence

    To learn more, as well as view a schedule of their classes, visit www.flowtownyoga.com.

     

    These 6 movements Rotate, flex, extend and align the spine, stimulating spinal nerves, toning abdominal and back muscles, and improving breathing. It activates digestion and relieves constipation, increases circulation, and brings fresh oxygen to musculoskeletal system.

    Twist: 

        Find  a comfortable seated position, on the floor or on a chair. As you begin to awaken the spinal muscles, allow the movements to be slow and mindful. There is no need to rush. Hold each pose for 3 breaths. Find length in the spine and a neutral pelvis, twist to one side starting the movement from the torso. Lengthening on the inhale and gently twisting deeper on the exhale.

    Benefits: Rotating the spine consistently and correctly will help us keep our range of motion healthy and flexible so that daily movement becomes easier and less painful. Twisting hydrates the intervertebral disks and massages the organs within the abdomen supporting digestion.

    Lateral Flexion:

        Start on an easy seated position with your legs crossed. Inhale reaching up with both arms then on the exhale placing your right hand on the floor and reaching over with the left arm creating a C shape with the spine. Hold for 3 breaths and repeat on other side.

    Benefits: Lateral flexion is a movement that bends the body to the right or left side. It helps to open up the side-body, strengthens the obliques, and is helpful in increasing flexibility of the spine lengthening the muscles between the ribs and pelvis, plus parts of the lower back. Lateral flexion also opens up the ribcage, helping to expand the lungs and aid in deeper breathing.

    Spinal Flexion:

        Start on table top on your hands and knees. Hands directly underneath shoulders, and your knees directly underneath your hips. Keep your back flat, and your head in line with the rest of your spine. INHALE. With an EXHALATION tuck your tailbone, round the spine towards the ceiling and gently bring your chin towards your chest. This is called Cat pose.

    Benefits: This shape expands the back-body, stretching the back of the lungs, increasing breath capacity, and tones the abdomen with an engaged core. It allows us to turn inward for reflection and calmness.

    Spinal Extension:

        After Cat pose and exhaling, INHALE, tip the tailbone up, drop the belly and chest toward the floor, and lift your head and chin forward and up. Think about lengthening the spine as you do this movement. This position is Cow.

    Benefits: This is a lengthening pose particularly for opening up the thoracic spine and the muscles of the chest and shoulders. It strengthens the lungs and facilitates deeper breathing. When done in a chair, place hands on your thighs and extend and flex the spine with the flow of the breath. Establishing a breathing rhythm. Inhaling deep with the Cow position and exhaling completely with the Cat position.

  • Lots to Like About Teens Today

    Lots to Like About Teens Today

        As a behavioral health professional for over twenty-five years and the father of two school age children, I recognize the importance of staying abreast of the latest challenges and trends in regards to youth substance abuse and its related negative behaviors. I was excited to see the recently released 2018 Communities That Care (CTC) survey of South Carolina teens reflecting a continuing downward trend in regards to lifetime and current use of alcohol, tobacco and most other drugs. Even more so, Florence County’s youth continue to display lower substance use rates than their statewide and national peers do.

        The CTC survey data reflects that in Florence County, 36% of high school youth have ever used alcohol, 14 % have used tobacco and 23% have used marijuana. These percentages have been noticeably trending downward for years but have dramatically fallen in the last three years. Vaping/e-cigarettes is the only substance use to show a significant increase at 24% having used these products. Contrary to how teen’s behavior is often sensationalized and characterized by negative media stories and perceptions, this data demonstrates that the vast majority of high school students are making the choice not to use alcohol, tobacco or other drugs.

        While there are many who have played an important part in this success, I do want to recognize the role that our local law enforcement agencies have played through conducting hundreds of compliance checks to deter youth access to alcohol and tobacco, local merchants for denying sales to underage youth, and the local school districts for providing opportunities to collaborate and educate students, staff, and parents.

    Hand drawn no smoking sign on white

        Moreover and perhaps most importantly, to parents for setting safe, legal and healthy boundaries and expectations for their teens and in turn their teens having the respect and courage to adhere to them. Research today continues to demonstrate that parent’s behavior, opinions and expectations have the greatest influence on the behavior choices their children make.

        While this is certainly great news to celebrate, we have to remain vigilant in regards to new and dangerous challenges facing our youth. Vaping, social media and the dark side of the internet, each in their own right, present some of the most potentially damaging short and long-term influences in the lives of youth. Parents are encouraged to constantly educate themselves on these growing and evolving dangers and most importantly, communicate with your children about them. The same boundaries and expectations that successfully support your efforts in assisting them to make good behavior choices in regards to alcohol, tobacco and other drugs are important to implement with these dangers as well. Consistent communication, setting behavior boundaries and expectations and displaying good choices yourself will go a long way in ensuring your children can develop the skills necessary to become happy, healthy and successful adults.

        Well-done teens and I look forward to seeing more great news as your generation works to successfully navigate through the ever-changing challenges this world presents.

    story by Randy Cole, CEO

    Circle Park Behavioral Health Services

  • Alzheimer’s Awareness

    Alzheimer’s Awareness

        In 1983, President Ronald Reagan designated the month of November as Alzheimer’s Awareness Month. It is still recognized today. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, at that time there were less than two million people with the disease, however, that number has increased to more than five million. Alzheimer’s disease is now the sixth-leading cause of death in the United States.

      Many lives change when a person is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. Today, many families are faced with difficult decisions regarding loved ones with Alzheimer’s. Care, financials, and physical and mental health are all of concern. Additionally, the process can also be challenging for caregivers. There are an estimated 16 million caregivers of people living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias in the United States.

        New Generations Adult Day Center located in Florence provides services specifically for those with Alzheimer’s disease or related conditions. They understand that caring for a loved one can take a toll on family members, which is why they provide adult day care services that can give a much-needed break in addition to benefits for loved ones. The Alzheimer’s Activity Center provides programs and support services for individuals in order to keep them engaged with activities while exercising the brain in a safe environment. The staff is trained to understand Alzheimer’s and they work together to create a welcoming, supportive, and enriching environment. Services include enhancing cognitive skills, stimulating interaction on personal and group levels, encouraging mobility and stability, and nutrition and personal hygiene assistance. While South Carolina requires one caregiver per eight participants, New Generations has one caregiver per five participants in order to better provide individualized attention to those who need it.

        Vantage Point, a division of CareSouth Carolina, Inc. in Hartsville has a network called Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs), which is a local aging program that provides information and services on a range of assistance for older adults and those who care for them. They disperse respite money to families to help with care. Respite allows a person to take time off from caregiving duties while someone else cares for their loved one. John Belissary, administrator and owner of New Generations Adult Day Center states, “If you’ve ever been a care giver, it’s the toughest job there is. If you think about it, an elderly woman has become a full care provider for her husband. She’s withdrawn herself from society. She can no longer go out to eat with her Red Hat lady friends, play Bridge with her friends, or go play golf or tennis. Her life is consumed with medications, doctor appointments, making sure he eats, bathes, and doesn’t fall… it never ends.” Through Vantage Point, a person can qualify for a grant of $500-$1500 per year to get a provider, whether it’s through New Generations or a home care service, in order to take care of the individual and provide caregivers with a break. 

        The Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s is held annually in more than 600 communities nationwide and is the world’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support, and research. The money goes directly to respite to help with the care of many of our loved ones. “We are put on this earth to help one another and to care for one another,” says John. “That’s what we should be doing. I can’t tell people enough to donate to this research fund so they can continue their search to find a cure. It will directly affect so many people in all of our lives. It’s important we show these people compassion.”

     

    New Generations Adult Day Center

    2111 West Jody Rd. | Florence | 843.773.2781

    www.newgenerationsadc.com 

     

    Book Recommendation for those with loved ones faced with an Alzheimer’s diagnosis:

    Still Alice is a 2007 novel by Lisa Genova, set in Boston. The novel is about a woman who suffers early-onset Alzheimer’s disease. Alice Howland, a 50-year-old woman, is a cognitive psychology professor at Harvard and a world-renowned linguistics expert. She is married to an equally successful husband, and they have three grown children. The disease takes hold swiftly, and it changes Alice’s relationship with her family and the world.

    For more info or to purchase, visit lisagenova.com.