Lexington Woman Magazine

Volume VIII

Cayce, Chapin, Columbia, Irmo, Lexington, West Columbia, and White Knoll

CELEBRATING, MOTIVATING, AND EDUCATING RRealeal WOMEN

Turn this issue over for a special Mothers Day spotlight:9 months and 34 minutes of a purpose filled life featuring Crystal Poston

www.lexingtonwoman.sc | Look us up on Facebook!

Call to subscribe or advertise with us!(803) 808-0866

Lexington Kids love Lexington Mothers!Happy Mothers Day!

photos by Clark Berry Photography

www.lexingtonwoman.sc

Editor-In-Chief:Lori Samples Duncan

([email protected])

Project Coordinator:Lori Samples Duncan

Media Representative:Theresa Adams

([email protected])

Contributing Writers:Ruth Chapman

Pastor Mark CrumptonLori Samples Duncan

Jennifer Hutchinson, RDHTim Loonam, DVM

Bren MillerTyler Ryan

Cover Photo:Clark Berry Photography

Publication Layout and Ad Design: Melissa Wates

Photography: Clark Berry Photography

Timeless Expressions Photography

Volume VIII

Cayce, Chapin, Columbia, Irmo, Lexington, West Columbia, and White Knoll

CELEBRATING, MOTIVATING, AND EDUCATING RRealeal WOMEN

Turn this issue over for a special Mothers Day spotlight:9 months and 34 minutes of a purpose filled life featuring Crystal Poston

In this Issue

Volume VIII

From the Editor 2

Things we love about Lexington 4

Lets Talk 5 When Green is NOT good 6 Tongue Thaid: Asian cuisine with a twist 8 Lexington Woman presents On the Couch at Travinia with Tyler Ryan

Pets 9 A guide to pet health insurance

Health & Wellness 10 Lexington Medical Centers new program for urinary incontinence and pelvic pain 12 Little League Shoulder 14 Smile from the beginning

Professional 15 Dress for the job you want 16 Getting a KICK out of life with Jackie Howie 18 Lexingtons own Rebecca West

Celebrating the Survivor in You! 21 Celebrate life, strength, and courage 22 Bren Miller 24 Brittany Barfield

Business & Web Directory 25

Woman 2 Woman EnterprisesPO Box 85282 | Lexington, SC 29073

(803) 808.0866 | www.woman2woman.sc

Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this publication. However, the publisher cannot assume responsibility for errors or omissions. No part of this book may be reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission. 2010

16

Watch for this icon and be sure to check out moredetailed interviews online in our On The Couch series

at www.youtube.com/WomanToWomanTV

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating Real Women

Our new web site is going to excite a lot of people. Not

only is it clutter free, well-designed and user friendly, it

also contains our extensive Health Library. Whether you

have sore eyes, tired feet or a crummy tummy, you can

research literally thousands of health issues easily and

quickly. This education will help you both before and

after meeting with your physician.

Visit www.lexmed.com. Youll be glad you did.

www.lexmed.com

A site for sore eyes(or whatever else is bothering you)

*&%0:HE/LEUDU\B[LQGG $0


hank you for choosing to take the time to read this edition of Lexington Woman. Thank you for allowing me to share my thoughts and referrals to the women of Lexington. We believe the businesses in these pages are the best of the best. Each business you will see

featured has made a personal commitment to you, the Lexington woman, to provide you with quality products and services, and I invite you to call them or go in and give them your business. Without their support, Lexington Woman could not continue to share such valuable information with you.

If you havent already made plans to join us in Savannah for the Girlfriends Getaway, call a friend and invite her. See page 13 for details. We are going to Paula Deens restaurant and will take a Riverboat Dinner Cruise. Ladies, I would love to see you there. Space is very limited, so call a sitter or let daddy watch the children and join us for two days in beautiful, historic Savannah!

Spring is in the air and the weather has us all guessing from one day to the next; do we get out the short sleeves or do we don a jacket? Lately there are more days filled with sunshine than not. South Carolina is especially beautiful this time of year and I love the big cherry blossom tree in my own front yard full of pink blooms.

We are doing a lot of exciting things online so dont forget to check our website frequently and see exactly what is happening in and around Lexington and specifically what upcoming event may be especially for our readers. We have also joined Facebook and at last peek had almost 1,000 fans. If you enjoy the articles we bring you on real women in Lexington, become a fan of Lexington Woman Magazine and find out first about special offers for our fans only, opportunities for give-aways, and of course inspirational quotes to make you smile, laugh or perhaps just provoke a positive attitude for the day.

We have also started our On the Couch series with some of our featured women. Be sure to check those out online at www.youtube.com/WomanToWomanTV. Look for the icon to the left to denote which women you can view a more detailed interview with.

I am proud to be a member of the Lexington community. If you have any thoughts you would like to share with me personally, please feel free to email me. Your feedback is vital to making Lexington Woman everything we have envisioned it to be. To quote one of my favorite lines from the movie Hope Floats, My cup runneth over.

May God Bless and Keep you,Lori Samples Duncan(Become our fan on Facebook!)

Psalm 103 1Bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name. 2Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: 3Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases; 4Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies; 5Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagles.

T

From the Editor


Things We Love about Lexington

Things we love about Lexington!by Lori Samples Duncan

We love KICKS Exceptional Shoes! Check out the article featuring Jackie Howie on page 16, or stop by their Lexington location at The Shoppes at the Flight Deck to find fabulous shoes!

Anderson Filet at Travinia Italian Kitchen. What a wonderful dish! Check out their ad on page 8.

We love the Colonial Life Center! Check out the upcoming events and family shows at www.coloniallifearena.com.

We love Rodan + Fields SOOTHE regimen a deep, calming breath for your skinwhen your face just cant take it anymore. Rodan + Fields SOOTHE regimen is for-mulated especially for hyper-sensitive skin, even providing relief for problems associ-ated with rosacea. For more information,

visit http://theresaadams.myrandf.biz or http://theresaadams.my-randf.com. Flip the magazine over, and see the ad on page 7.

We love TCBY in Lexington! A healthy alternative to ice cream.

We love Facebook! Look us up and become our fan! Be the first to find out about special offers for our fans only, opportunities for give-aways, and much more!

ere are some of the things we love about Lexington:

We love our Mothers! We wish all of you moms a Happy Mothers Day! Be sure to flip the magazine over, and check out our Mothers Day features.

Sexy Girls sushi a sushi appetizer at Thai Wasabi in Lexington beside Publix on 378. I love the sushi! In my personal opinion, this is the best Sushi in town. The Sexy Girls are a definite must try! Plated beautifully, this dish is appealing to the eye as well as the palate. Take your mom!!! See their ad on page 6.

We love Blooming Butterflies at EdVenture starting May 1st run-ning through October. Explore the world of these fascinating in-sects! Interact with live butterflies and watch chrysalises emerge into beautiful butterflies and moths through the Bloom Room viewing window. There are 10-15 different species native to South-

eastern U.S. in the garden. Free for members and $3 in addition to museum admission for non-members.

We love accessories at Chos on Main!!! Buy mom something beautiful for Mothers Day.

H

Web Design | Graphic Design | Media Placement | Speciality ProductsBranding | SEO Campaigns | Social Media Campaigns

803.398.1776www.TylerRyanGroup.com


When Green is NOT good by Pastor Mark Crumpton

veryone is talking about going Green these days, but I say green is

not always good. I believe that part of our current economic situation is because we have been green for too long.

I know you are thinking by now, what is this guy talking about? I am talking about us being discontent and Green with Envy for too long. Because of this, Green monster of Envy, we have sought out bigger houses and more expensive cars until we have spent all of our green (money), trying to keep up with the Jones.

When Green is not good, it is very bad and destructive. It appears as a subtle discontent; no longer satisfied with what you have. Mar-riages have ended and families have been torn apart as a result of our Green with envy lifestyles.

One of the Ten Commandments in the Bible is Thou shalt not covet, which is another word for envy. God knows the destructive nature of this green monster and desires to protect us from its claws. So what can be done about this? Well, the decision to make a difference all starts with you! The choices

you make today will impact others forever, your children and family.

Paul said this in Phil 4:11 Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: NKJV.

He is saying that I am NOT lacking anything that I NEED; and understanding this I can be content wherever I am with whatever I have.

If you examine your life today you will see that you truly are blessed. You may not have what the neighbor has but you have what you NEED. If you think back to what most of our grandparents grew up with compared to us, we are far better off materialistically but none the happier. Life is less stressful and debt is less of a threat when we learn to be content in whatever situation we are in.

Phil 4:19And my God shall supply all your need ac-cording to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. NKJV

God always provides and He always makes a way.

Matt 6:25-26 25 Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing?

26 Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? NKJV

Thank You Heavenly Father, for supply-ing my daily bread (my daily needs). I truly am blessed, I have all that I need and more. I may not be rich by the worlds standards but I am rich in life. Help me to be like Paul, content in all things at all times. Thank You Heavenly Father.

John 3:16For God so loved the world, that he gave his only be-gotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. (KJV)

Pastor Mark Crumpton,Lexington Church of God1228 S. Lake Drive, Lexington, SC 29073www.LexCOG.org(803) 957-6675

E

Lets Talk

STYLESPalmettoHAIR SALON

996-5532117 E. Main Street Lexington


5454 Sunset Blvd. Ste. E Lexington, SC 29072803-957-9849

Monday - Thursday: Lunch 11am-3pm and Dinner 4pm-10pmFriday - Saturday: Lunch 11am-3pm and Dinner 4pm-11pm

Sunday: 11:30am-7pm

Asian Fusion Cuisine www.thaiwasabi.net

he news of a new Asian Fusion res-taurant next to Publix on highway

378 in Lexington was welcome news to me and our Publisher, Lori Duncan. It didnt take too much arm twisting for me to accept the invitation to join her for lunch at Thai Wasabi. When we arrived, we were made to feel very welcome in the dining room.

After a once over look at the full menu, we met Paul, the owner and chef at Thai Was-

abi. Like the staff members that met us at the door, he was very welcoming. Not be-ing a fan of seafood personally, my dining companions thumbed through the full sushi menu, and selected among others, the Sexy

Girl, which is shrimp tempura, jalapeno, with mango. Paul has put together several other sushi offerings such as Breath of Fire, Las Vegas, Lady In Red, 10 SC, Fantas-tic, and one that makes me want to order it simply because of its name, 911.

We also sampled the Asian staple Edamame. Yummy. We then tried the Tom Yum Tofu, which is Thai herb enhanced soup, with a splash of lime Juice. Again, a delight from

Paul and the Thai Wasabi. After Tom Yum Tofu, and the Sexy Girl, it was onto lunch.

Lori had the Kung Pao Chicken, served with baby corn, bell peppers, carrots, and a special

sauce. The question Lori had to answer was How much kick in the sauce? I selected the Pad Thai chicken, which, in retrospect, was an excellent choice. Also making it to the table, the 3 flavor trout, described as crispy trout in a 3 flavor sauce. Now, before we dis-cuss the food itself, let me take a moment and address the presentation. From the Sexy Girl all the way through the fried ice cream that we will get into in a moment, the food simply looked delicious. Fresh dark green broccoli and cucumbers, the right amount of sauces, the tasteful garnish all made each plate pleasing to the eye...and the nose, for that matter. The freshness of the vegetables was a discussion at our table.

Ok, back to the food. As I mentioned, Lori had the Kung Pao chicken. And dont think for a second that I didnt reach across the table with my fork extended to do some sampling. A piece of chicken, the pasta, and a baby corn. The flavor was great. The kick was spicy but not over powering. Although, it did sneak up on me a bit, after my com-ment about it not being hot at all! Like a Seinfeld episode, I can tell the story of my Thai Wasabi lunch backwards. Our friend, Theresa, looked at my empty plate and said Wow, were you hungry? Although I was,

Tongue Thaid: Asian cuisine with a twistby Tyler Ryan

T

...the right amount of sauces, the tasteful garnish all made each plate pleasing to the eye...

Lets Talk


Pauls cooking certainly made it easy! The chicken and sea-soning was delicious. Even the 3 flavor trout looked perfect, and Tracy of Marketing Essen-tials confirmed that it was an excellent choice for lunch.

You might think that our time at the Thai Wasabi would be over. You would be wrong. Paul brought out two of his favor-ite meal enders. Sweet Sticky Rice, with mango, and fried ice cream, called Tempura Ice Cream. How they manage to deep fry ice cream without melting it defies physics. Both great choices to satisfy even the most discerning sweet tooth.

Lets check the balance sheet so far on our time at the Thai

Wasabi. Great food. Great atmosphere. Good presenta-tion. Ok, time to talk turkey. How much? Appetizers start at $3.99. Paul has daily lunch specials priced at $6.99. Mind you, dont be fooled by the use of the words Lunch Special. At Thai Wasabi, the specials are a special price, not special size. They are all very large portions. Full dinners and entrees also start at $9.99.

The Thai Wasabi is opened every day, with lunch start-ing at 11:00 Monday through Saturday, and Sunday starting at 11:30. You also can check out their website, including a full menu, at www.thaiwasabi.net. Thank you Paul for a great lunch!

Great food. Great atmosphere. Good presentation.

Lets Talk

Become a fan of Lexington Woman Magazine on Facebook for exclusive offers, including specials at

Thai Wasabi, for Lexington Woman readers only!

We're flippin' fantastic!www.renegadegymnastics.com

Gymnastics Cheerleading Tumbling Private LessonsFitness Classes Birthday Parties Field Trips(803) 359-0123

108 Prides WayLexington, SC 29072


exington Woman Magazine has partnered with Travinia Italian

Kitchen and Tyler Ryan to bring you the On the Couch series and the On the Couch Survivor series.

We are so excited about this opportunity to bring to you not only great articles about lo-cal men and women, now you can see them live and in color right from your computer at home or in the office.

Our first interviews were with Jackie Howie of Kicks Shoes and Rebecca West of the Law

WINESPECTATORAWARD

200920082007200620052004

LEXINGTON803/957-2422

5074 Sunset Blvd.

NORTHEAST COLUMBIA803/419-9313

101 Sparkleberry Crossing Rd.

gluten free menucatering

private dining room

Join us for lunch & enjoy pizza, wraps, pastas, salads & soups

$10.50 or less!Visit our website for weekly specials Follow us on twitter for upcoming events & offers

Follow us on youtube with LIVE On the couch

interviews at Travinia with cancer survivors featured in Lexington Woman Magazine.

open for lunch & dinner

www.traviniaitaliankitchen.com

Lexington Woman Ad _Layout 1 4/22/10 11:08 AM Page 1

Lexington Woman presents On the Couch at Travinia with Tyler Ryan

L Office of Richard Breibart. (You can check out their articles on pages 16-19.) We also interviewed Bren Miller, Crystal Poston and the Ta-Tinis. Those interviews will be being posted throughout the month of April and May. You can learn more about Bren starting on page 22, and flip this issue over to read the article on Crystal.

We wanted you, our reader, to experience the wonderful people we have an opportunity to meet in a more personal way. Become a fan of Lexington Woman Magazine on Facebook, and we will send you links and other promos to go along with our On the Couch series throughout the summer months.

We always welcome your feedback. Lexing-ton Woman is about you. Feel free to email me personally with your comments and sug-gestions.

Check out Jackie Howie now at www.you-tube.com/womantowomantv.

Lets Talk

Look where we found Lexington Woman!Gracie Walker (left) and Bailey Poston

(right) at Disney on Ice


re you worried you wont be able to afford veterinary care for your pet

if they need it? You and your familys emo-tional connections with your pet are strong, yet todays economic realities may cause you to postpone necessary treatment or even force you into euthanizing your pet if they become seriously ill or injured. According to the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, expenditures for vet-erinary care have more than doubled since 1980. If this health care crisis has you wor-ried, then you should consider pet health insurance.

In many ways, pet health policies are simi-lar to human insurance policies; annual premiums, deductibles, and various cover-age plans are based on what the pet owner chooses. They are not, however, health maintenance organizations (HMOs) or pre-ferred provider organizations (PPOs), nor is pet health insurance considered man-aged care. Pet health insurance policies are fee-for-service indemnity policies similar to your auto or homeowners insurance. An owner with a pet insured by these policies has a contract with the insurance provider and submits claims to their them for reim-bursement of the pets veterinary costs. Since

GraceAnimal

Hospitaland Pet Lodge

Tim Loonam, DVMOwner/Veterinarian

147 Charter Oak Road | Lexington, SC 29072803.808.PETS (7387) | www.gracepets.com

Small Animal Medicine and Surgery

Small Animal Dentistry

Equine Services

Pharmacy and Laboratory

Behavior and Training Consulation

Goats, Sheep and LlamaServices

Nutrition and Retail Products

Referral and Consultation Services

Pet Lodge

"Complete, Compassionate Care From Your Other Family Doctor"

A

A guide to pet health insuranceby Tim Loonam, DVM

it is an indemnity policy and not medical insurance, the providers are not concerned with treatment outcomes, length-of-stay, or other issues important to human medical insurers and managed care. Veterinarians are not bound by contractual relationships with insurers nor do they sell policies or re-ceive kick-backs. Overall, these policies are much less complicated and more affordable than our own health insurance.

Pet Health insurance has been in the U.S. market for more than 30 years, however ac-cording to Dr. Ernie Ward DVM, a member of the PetPlan Insurance Advisory Board, less than 2% of all U.S. pets are covered by health insurance. Even so, the pet health in-surance business is growing drastically.

An independent market research firm esti-mated a total growth of nearly $110 million from 2003 to 2007, and there are several new insurance companies entering the mix, including names well known to pet own-ers such as Purina and the American Ken-nel Club. Dr. Craig Pryor of Murphy Road Animal Hospital in Nashville, TN, tells a success story of one of his clients who had two boxers develop cancer. The successful treatment and remission for both dogs cost

$25,000, which included surgery, hospital-ization, radiation and chemotherapy, and the clients pet health insurance paid all but $500.

Here are some tips to help you select the right health insurance policy for your pet:

Make sure your policy does not exclude certain breeds, congenital illnesses, or pre-existing conditions

Know your policys age limits and any waiting periods

Ask about discounts if you have your pet microchipped or if you have multiple pets

Know what your plan covers (Accidents only? Wellness care? Comprehensive care?)

Review deductibles, co-pays and caps on coverage

For a complete review of available pet health insurance plans, visit www.petinsurancere-view.com. Ask your veterinarian for their advice on pet health insurance for your other family member.

Pets

0 Celebrating, Motivating and Educating Real Women

t may start during a cough, sneeze or jump. But soon, it can develop into an

embarrassing problem that impacts quality of life. National consumer research shows that one-third of men and women ages 30 to 70 have experienced incontinence at some point in their adult lives and may be still liv-ing with the symptoms. Now, Lexington Medical Center is pioneering a first-of-its-kind hospital program in the Midlands.

Lexington Medical Center has a new pro-gram for incontinence and pelvic pain for both women and men. To date, it is the only Midlands hospital with such a program.

We use exercises, nutrition, biofeedback and other modalities to treat these patients,

said Tori Gude, physical therapist and man-ager at Lexington Medical Center Rehabili-tation and Sports Medicine.

In women, pregnancy and childbirth are common factors leading to incontinence. After childbirth, the pelvic floor muscles are weakened and the pelvis can be aligned differently. In men, surgeries, nerve damage or benign prostatic hyperplasia can cause incontinence. Habits such as drinking too much caffeine or alcohol can make it worse.

Many of the same factors can lead to pelvic pain, along with participation in high impact activities such as cycling, creating problems including pain in the lower abdomen, lim-ited sitting tolerance and reduction in range

of motion. Pelvic pain is considered chronic when symptoms are present for more than six months. The pain is often described as aching or burning.

Gude says, for some people, the problems are so bad that they limit activities or traveling they once enjoyed. She adds that the experi-ence of wearing a thick maxi pad or wetting their bed at night becomes extremely embar-rassing, especially for younger patients.

Patients who take part in the new program come to the Rehabilitation and Sports Medi-cine office on Lexington Medical Centers main campus. Tori Gude sees each patient once a week for a 45-minute session. Treat-ment will last 6 to 12 visits.

Health & Wellness

Lexington Medical Centers new program for urinary incontinence and pelvic painLexington Medical Center

I

HEALTH DIRECTIONS ~ FITNESS FOR ALLFor information, call791-2113Medical Wellness Center Two Locations:West Columbia & Irmo

Group Fitness Classes: Beginner Fitness Cycle

Cardio Pilates/Yoga

Individual Attention: Personal Training (any discipline) Small Group Pilates/Yoga

www.lmchealthdirections.com


Health & Wellness

The therapy, which includes education on diet and nutri-tion, behavior changes, pelvic floor exercises, biofeedback, techniques to decrease urinary urge and frequency, massage, strengthening of the abdomi-nal core and electrical stimula-tion, can address the problem well. It can also be a good op-tion for patients who want to get off medicine.

It gives patients the opportu-nity to take control of the prob-lem, Gude said.

The treatment is always done in conjunction with advice and permission from the patients physician. Patients can be re-ferred by their primary care doctor, Ob/Gyn or urologist. Such a referral is necessary. Most insurance providers cov-er physical therapy for urinary incontinence and pelvic pain, however all patients should verify their individual benefits for specifics on out of pocket maximums and any limits their plan has in place. Good candi-dates for referral to the program include people who experience trouble leaking urine during normal daily activities, leakage

during sneezing, coughing or laughing, pain in the lower ab-domen, pelvis, hip or tailbone, pain with sexual intercourse, trouble starting to urinate, or trouble with frequent urina-tion.

Tori Gude emphasizes that patients must be diligent in following guidelines to obtain results. In addition, they may have to be willing to make life-style changes, such as limiting certain activities.

For more information, visit www.lexmed.com.

...one-third of men and women ages 30 to 70 have experienced incontinence at some point in their adult lives and may still be living with the symptoms.

Talk to your doctor or visit our web site for more information

www.scOvarianCancer.org

(803) 926-3462

Who gets Ovarian

Cancer?

All women are at risk for ovarian cancer. Ovarian cancer is one of the ve leading

causes of cancer death in American women.

Ovarian cancer occurs in approximately one in 72 women.

A womens chance of survival is better if the cancer is found early.

A Pap smear is not a test for ovarian cancer. It detects cervical cancer.

Some are at higher risk. Women with a family or personal history of ovarian,

breast or colon cancer

Post-menopausal women

Women who have never been pregnant or given birth

SCO100302_quarterpg ad_LW_FINAL.indd 1 3/30/10 12:49:41 PM

Creative Therapy Self-work to change emotions and patterns

Learn how to heal with your own creative strength

Professional psychological service

Wellness and positive psychology

(803) 360-9698By appointment only

Robert D. Phillips, Ph.D.

I can do anything with the right shoes.

Anonymous

All we want is peace on earth and cute shoes.

Anonymous


Craig M. Burnworth, M.D.

Kim J. Chillag, M.D.

William T. Felmly, M.D.

David B. Fulton, M.D.

Wendell Holmes, Jr., M.D.

Mark D. Locke, M.D.

Earl B. McFadden, M.D.

Frank K. Noojin, M.D.

Bradley P. Presnal, M.D.

W. Bret Smith, D.O.

W. Alaric Van Dam, M.D.

INFORMATION(803) 227-8000

APPOINTMENTS(803) 227-8010

COLUMBIA14 Medical Park, Suite 200

LEXINGTON104 Saluda Pointe Drivemooreclinic.com

Weve got yourtwists, turnsand stumblescovered.

Weve got yourtwists, turnsand stumblescovered.

Moore Clinic is dedicated to caring for the pains of todays active lifestyles. We help athletes perform better. We straighten childrens spines. We even repair the damage that weekend warriors inflict upon themselves.Moore Clinicwere your muscle and bone experts!

ith almost three million players, little league is a time honored

and very popular tradition for young boys who have dreams of becoming A-Rod, Ted Williams, or even Babe Ruth. The largest organization of little league was founded in 1939 by Carl Stotz. Since then, along with the growth of big league ball, little league has become a tradition all over the world. Boys that began as little league players have gone on to win World Series titles and held long careers in The Show (the term used to de-scribe the Majors). Unfortunately, there is an increasing number of young players whose dreams end with little league, sidelined by what has become known as Little League Shoulder.

The average big league pitcher creates seven thousand degrees per second of angular mo-mentum. In laymans terms, a throw that can travel over one hundred miles per hour. This creates tremendous stress on even the most trained, strongest throwing arm. Although your average twelve year old isnt quite at that level, as the young human body is form-ing, it is susceptible to injury from use.

According to Dr. Frank Noojin from the Moore Orthopedic Clinic, the dynamic of

how kids play sports has changed. In past generations, kids played several sports. Baseball in the spring, football in the fall, basketball in the winter. This provided rest to various parts of the body. With the in-creased competitive nature of sports, kids are much more specialized and focused on one sport. With the climate of the south east, it is possible to play baseball nine to eleven months of the year, rather than three or four. The addition of different types lev-els leagues, school games, summer leagues,

travel ball, among others, kids can get a lot of practice, but also expose themselves to potential injury.

Humeral Epiphysiolysis, commonly known as Little League Shoulder has become all too common among the future Roger Cle-mens of the twelve year old set. The injury occurs from the repetitive throwing, which causes stress on the growth plate. According to Dr. Wendell Holmes of the Moore Or-thopedic Clinic, this stress can cause a weak

Little League Shoulderby Tyler Ryan

WLittle League Shoulder has become all too common among the future Roger Clemens ofthe twelve yearold set.

Health & Wellness

photo by Timeless Expressions Photography


Health & Wellness

We are partnering with Faith Based Vacations & Group Travel for a fabulous Savannah weekend trip May 20-22, 2010. For three days and two nights, the total cost of the trip is $299.

Activities for the group will include the following and much more: Two Nights at the Country Inn & Suites Lunch at Paula Deens - Lady and Sons Historic Savannah Trolley Tour Riverboat Dinner Cruise - Feast on a delicious buffet while you enjoy cruising along the scenic Savannah River Show Tickets at The Savannah Theatre - Southern Nights A Musical Variety Hop On/Hop Off Shopping at the Savannah Historic District and along the Waterfront Motorcoach Service from Columbia

If youre interested in joining us, or for more information, con-tact Teilah Shirley at (803) 414-6029 or [email protected].

Hurry seats are filling fast!

Two members of the McMahan BrothersPipeline baseball team check out a recent

issue of Lexington Woman!Blake Koon (left) and Dalton Shealy (right)

spot in the bone, which can lead to cracking.

If ignored, these injuries can lead not only to surgery, but lifelong problems. The good news, however, is that Little League Shoulder is not only treatable, but preventable. Some medical Groups have become very proactive with the education and prevention of such injuries among young ball players. Dr. Noojin and Dr. Holmes are among a group of about a dozen orthopedic surgeons who practice with the Moore Or-thopedic Clinic; in conjunction with, therapists, and other health care providers that treat sports re-lated injuries. In addition to the staff at the clinics, located in Lexington and downtown, Moore has devel-oped an outreach program, putting some seventeen athletic trainers into schools all over the midlands, whose role is to educate and prevent injuries in the sports programs. The trainers, who work as part of a part-nership with Providence Northeast, work to prevent injuries from get-ting worse, and act as a medial tri-age, according to Dr. Noojin.

If a player is experiencing pain, there is a good indication there is a prob-lem that can quickly get worse. Its a lot of responsibility for a young play-er to recognize what his body is try-ing to say. Although soreness can be expected with any level of intensive activity, listen to your body. Pain is not normal, says Dr. Noojin. Dr. Holmes goes on to say that if there is pain after a day, there is a good indi-cation there is a problem. Its impor-tant for coaches and parents to pay attention. Watch for the signs. Has the speed gone down in the pitches? Is there a loss of accuracy? These are two telltale signs of an issue.

Does that mean that if you have the symptoms of Little League Shoulder you are going to meet Dr. Noojin and Dr. Holmes in the operating room? Almost never. In fact, with treatment, only one to two percent ever have surgery, according to the Doctors.

There are systems in place to protect the players, but it is vital for parents and players to play by the rules. Live by the pitch count rules. Dr. Holm-es warns. He goes on to say that ball should only be played a maximum of 8 months a year. He also says Dont cheat the system by playing in several leagues at once. This can quickly create the fatigue and stress on the young body that can lead to Little League Shoulder.

If coaches and parents observe the signs, and the players listen to their bodies, Little League Shoulder is not a career ender. Most players can return to the mound, and with technique corrections, can find themselves stronger pitchers in the end. Dr. Noojin tells us this issue can be avoided all together, with these simple steps. Plan, condition in the off season, learn proper tech-nique, watch the pitch count, and take 3 months a year off to let the arm rest. You never know, we might have a World Series winner from Lexington!

You can learn more about The Moore Orthopaedic Clinic, and its outreach program, and treatment by contacting them at (803) 227-8000 or at www.mooreclinic.com.

photo by Clark Berry Photography

Its a lot of responsibility for a young player to recognize what his body is trying to say. Although soreness can be expected with any level of intensive activity, listen to your body. Pain is not normal.


Dr. Steven J. Hutchinson, DMDJennifer P. Hutchinson, RDH

209 West Main Street | Lexington, South Carolina 29072(803) 359-0566 Now Accepting New Patients

Cosmetic | Restorative | Preventive

irst impressions seem to be what most people remember about a person. It

is the beginning of the relationship, a time when you want to look great and feel confi-dent. Whether it is a job interview, business client or a first date, you should try to make the best impression possible.

Your smile is the first thing people notice when they meet you. You dont have to be a Dentist to notice cigarette and coffee stain or to smell the bad breath from Gum Dis-ease. We use our mouth so much in our professional life through communicating (talking), smiling and eating with our col-leagues. It would be mighty hard to smile at your boss or potential client when you have a toothache because you put off that filling from last year.

Now lets get real here, especially women, if we are going to an important function we want to wear a great outfit (probably one we have tried on 3 times!). So why would you not want a great smile? Everyone can see it and you have to wear it every day! WOW

There are many options that can make you look and feel better about your smile. Theres

in-home bleaching to crowns and veneers and orthodontics. Even regular 6 month Dental Hygiene visits are great because we polish off a great deal of stain from coffee and tea and remove tarter which contributes to Gum Disease and unsightly red bleed-ing gums!

It doesnt have to be expensive to take care of your smile; we have payment plan options

to help you afford whatever you may need. Just talk with your Dentist and your Dental Hygienist can be a great help too. Your smile can change your life. Its hard to say no to someone when they give you their great smile.

Palmetto Comprehensive Dentistry, LLC(803) 359-0566209 West Main Street, Lexington, SC

Smile from the beginningby Jennifer Hutchinson, RDH

FWhether it is a job interview, business client or a first date, you should try to make the best impression possible.

Jennifer Hutchinson with her daughter Elizabeth

Health & Wellness


Specializing in On-SiteCustom Repair and Design

F I N E J E W E L E R S

THEHAPMAN

OMPANYCC

www.thechapmancompany.com

803-996-5530903 North Lake Drive, Lexington

(look for the black awning)

Dress for the job you wantby Ruth Chapman

nce I was tasked with build-ing an entire department

from the ground floor. What I learned is that the interviewers per-ception whether real or imagined is everything. You never get a second chance to make a first impression.

From an advertisement I put in the local newspaper, I received 21 re-sumes to review. I pulled out any re-sume in which it appeared the appli-cant had relevant work experience; much to my chagrin, there were only one or two. Then I looked for cus-tomer service experience. I believe that customer service is innate. You can learn the facets of the business, but its difficult to teach people how to be nice.

A few of the applicants did not re-spond to my voice mails. I didnt make a second attempt at contact. One or two simply failed to show up for the interview no call, no show; no job. I usually drive to the loca-tion the night before, making sure I know exactly where to go and de-termining how long it might take me to get there, so I that will not be late. This just seems like common sense to me, but apparently, not everyone uses this approach as several were 10 minutes or more late; a big no-no on a job interview.

I believe that just by talking to some-one, you can get a feel for their per-sonality. I begin telling the applicant about the job. Next I ask them to tell me about themselves. I dont ask if they are married, have children, go to church, etc. but usually they feel compelled to tell me all these things. Sometimes they tell me way more than I need to know.

I always ask them why they are leav-ing their current position. This is not the time to reveal some transgres-

O sion, either real or perceived that is unforgiveable in your mind. Inter-views should always be positive. All the while, I am looking at this person and asking myself, Do they fit in with other members of the depart-ment? Are they pleasant? Are they appropriately dressed?

It is imperative to wear your best out-fit to the interview. I was once hired for a position in a law firm when I was in college, simply because I wore a navy blue suit with a silk scarf in the pocket. My wise and wonderful aunt once told me to always dress for the job you want, not the one you have. I believe that even if you dont own a suit, you know someone who does. And if you dont, go to Good-will if you cant afford one. You never get a second chance to make a first impression.

Visit The Chapman Company Fine Jewel-ers at 903 North Lake Drive in Lexington for the latest trends in jewelry.

It is imperative to wear your best outfit to the interview. I was once hired for a position in a law firm when I was in college, simply because I wore a navy blue suit with a silk scarf in the pocket.

Professional


ven if you have never shopped at ei-ther KICKS stores, on Devine Street

or at The Shoppes at Flight Deck, even if you have never thought about shopping at a shoe boutique, even if you are a guy, you have heard of either Jackie Howie, or KICKS. As a professional emcee of sorts, I cant tell you the many times I have men-tioned the words footwear available at KICKS while hosting a charity event. This tells me that Jackie Howie not only runs a successful business, she is also a very active member of the community.

Over the last 12 years, Jackie has built a reputation for style and price, but she didnt start out with deep pockets to become suc-cessful. When Jackie came back to Colum-bia, she didnt have two dimes to rub to-gether, but had the entrepreneurial spirit of her father. Drawing from her love for the shoe stores in Atlanta, Jackie, with no business background, asked a lot of ques-tions, and jumped in with both feet pun intended.

Kicks did not always occupy the grand space it does in Lexington and downtown that you

see today. Initially, she had an agreement to sell shoes in an existing ladies boutique on Devine Street. The next step(like the metaphor?) was a teeny little house, also on Devine. Her next big move was to the current location on Devine Street. In Lex-ington, Jackie went back to the basics. She started inside of Lola on 378. With her re-cent move to the Shops At Flight Deck, she has really found a home.

Jackie has also continued the small town feel and philosophy that has made the stores a success. In Lexington, she simply props the door open and people can just pop in. Jackie fancies working at the store as act-ing almost as a bartender for females. The friends come in, sit on the couch, and the friends work it all outif we sell some shoes in the process, all the better.

Jackie also strives to break the impression that a store like Kicks is full of only high end shoes for select people. She actively fights that stigma. She works to make sure that no one thinks they cant afford things in her stores. Although she had no formal busi-ness training, she recognized an opportu-

nity to provide shoes at lower price points, so that even moms with daughters who outgrow their shoes can find the adorable shoes that have made the stores famous. With prices ranging from twenty dollars to several hundred, Jackies pledge is to find a fabulous shoe at the price you need.

The other recipe for success is Jackies in-volvement in the community. She recogniz-es the difference between simply running a store in a community, and being part of it. Among the many events you see Kicks in-volved with, Jackie is very dedicated to help-ing others find the strength to fight their battle with breast cancer. Her next event is the Get in The Pink event on May 8. This event was started last year, marking her tenth anniversary in business. She felt like there was diagnosis after diagnosis of breast cancer among her friends and clientele. With all that in mind, she coupled her love for running with an event to raise money and awareness. The success of the first run brought the attention of the Susan G Ko-men Foundation, who wants to be a part of the event this year. There is more informa-tion on the race at www.GetInThePink.org.

Getting a KICK out of life withJackie Howieby Tyler Ryan

E

Jackie fancies working at the store as acting almost like a bartender for females. The friends come in, sit on the couch, and the friends work it all out...if we sell some shoes in the process, all the better.


Professional


Even with the stores, and com-munity involvement, there is one thing that she holds dear, and that is her quality of life. The life outside the store. The life with the family. Although there are times that she feels like no matter what, she is go-ing to disappoint someone, she has the support of a very patient, won-derful husband who isnt afraid to lend a hand.

Successful business owner. Wife. Mom. Its very easy to see that the magic of Kicks comes from the gen-uine nature of its proprietor, Jackie Howie. Its not rocket science, says Jackie, buy pretty things, and treat people well. Good advice. Its working very well at KICKS.

You can browse, get directions, and even shop at www.ShopAtKicks.com.

If youd like to see more of the time we spent with Jackie please log onto Woman to Woman TV, at www.you-tube.com/WomanToWomanTV, and watch the entire On The Couch interview.

Among the many events you see Kicks involved with, Jackie is very dedicated to helping others find the strength to fight their battle with breast cancer.

Jackie Howie


Professional

I still have my feet on the ground, I just wear better shoes.

Oprah Winfrey

Funny that a pair of really nice shoes make us feel good in our heads the extreme opposite end of our bodies.

Levende Waters

Give a girl the correct footwear and she can conquer the world.

Bette Midler


erry Mason. Ben Matlock. Jack Mc-Coy. Rebecca West. Ok, well the last

one isnt as much a character on TV, but a real, practicing, successful attorney with the Law Office of Richard J. Breibart in Lexing-ton. If youve lived in the Lexington area you have, more than likely, heard of The Law Of-fice of Richard Breibart. Breibart has made a name for himself as a criminal defense at-torney. He also has a very talented team of at-torneys who practice civil litigation, and the firm has been involved in several high profile cases which have yielded millions for clients.

The Law Office of Richard J. Breibart is a general practice firm. The firm is giving spe-cial focus to alternative dispute resolution, which is used to avoid what could be a costly legal battle. The firm facilitates structured

negotiations and uses the skills of the attor-neys to reach a resolution prior to entering a courtroom. The office is also adding a divi-sion of probate and estate work, making the firm a truly full service general practice.

Rebecca West grew up in West Columbia

and attended public schools, before attend-ing Ole Miss for law school. After coming home and earning visiting student status at the USC School of Law, she found herself fo-cusing on family court cases. She now heads the family court division at the Law Office of Richard Breibart. The practice unique among firms in Lexington because it has at-torneys who are dedicated to work specifi-cally in the family court.

In the family division, she sees a lot of divorce cases, and the inevitable custody battles that ensue. She also handles social services cases, often in the defense role, where someone is accused of wrong doing when it comes to a family member. Some times family law has a criminal component, and she pointed out that at Breibart, they can handle both the

P

THE LAW OFFICE OF

RICHARD J. BREIBART, LLCATTORNEYS AT LAW

Over 50 Years ofLegal Experience

Divorce & Separation Child Support & Custody Alimony Spanish Translation

Available

www.palmettofamilylaw.com Email: [email protected]

Toll Free 1-888-359-7996201 W. Main Street, Lexington, SC 29072

Richard J. BreibartAttorney

Rebecca WestAttorney

Nancy Todd JordanAttorney

359-7996(803)

If youve lived in the Lexington area you have, more than likely, heard of The Law Office of Richard Breibart.

Professional

Lexingtons own Rebecca Westby Tyler Ryan


Professional

In a world of civility, she learned early on that regardless of gender, playing nice with others will always serve you better.

Rebecca West

civil and criminal issues for a client, eliminating the need for representation by separate firms.

We asked Rebecca about the difficulties or differences for a female to practice law in what some might consider the Good Ole Boy world of the southeast. Its a learned skill, she replied. In a world of civil-ity, she learned early on that regardless of gender, playing nice with others will always serve you better. The balance between the family and career, however, tends to require a bit more finesse. Mom is still mom, and when the kids are sick, she is the one who is called. Re-becca said that she relies on an extended network of people including a very supportive husband. She also commented that when you leave work, you need to leave work and be a mom. Rebecca did make the point that sometimes when you put on the mom hat, and leave work behind, it can be a disadvantage because often the male attorneys can continue working. You work around it.

Rebecca has found that the number of female law students has increased tremendously, over the years, pointing out that her class at Ole Miss was

nearly a third women, com-pared to the pictures of classes in years past, which had only one or two.

You know that the question of shows like Law and Order, The Practice, and Matlock came up. According to Rebecca, there are in fact, some similar aspects to what we see on TV and real-ity, which is more than can be said for a lot of reality shows. According to Rebecca, the re-lationship that is often found between courtroom adversar-ies can ultimately help create a positive court outcome. Even some of the procedures we see on the tube are absolutely ac-curate. Shes even had some-one confess on the stand!

The Law Office of Richard Breibart is clearly well suited to a vast array of services for clients, from criminal and civil defense to injury cases, and family matters. You can learn more about the firm online at www.breibartlaw.com and www.palmettofamilylaw.com. You can also logon to www.LexingtonWoman.sc to watch the On The Couch interview with Rebecca West, where we learned about how she puts her negotiation skills to work with her precocious three year old red-headed son.

Specializing in the Lexington,

Columbia, and West Columbia areas

Melissa Kyzer 803.446.5543

Reliable, Respected, and Highly Recommended

Call Melissa Kyzer for all your real estate needs!

Other things may change us, but we start and end with family

Anthony Brandt

Here are two images from a session we did with my grandmother and mother months before my grandmother passed away. I sort of knew this was probably our last chance to do these pictures with my Nana and Im so grateful we took advantage of the time we had. Too often people put off doing im-portant things like this and then they realize one day that its too late. Even if people dont choose us to photograph their families I hope they get some pro-fessional images made of their loved ones to have to remind their children and grandchildren of their loved ones who are no longer with them.

Becki Berry (Clark Berry Photography)

Photos by Clark Berry Photography(left photo) Doris M. Hobgood, Marian H. Warner,

Becki L. Berry, Caroline R. Berry (right photo) Lindsey N. Berry, Jonathan C. Berry, Katie L. Berry

0 Celebrating, Motivating and Educating Real Women

A journey that was meant to happen.

Take a woman with a great sense of style facing a difficult situation with her head held high and quiet fashionably decorated (I might add) and woman with the heart to help others and the opportunity to do so and Chemo with Style was inevitable. Paulette Criscione and Terry Vann Schon formed a partnership and a friendship that has made Chemo with Style such an important part of many survivors journey.

With the donation of 75 wigs and the desire to pay it forward Paulette and Terry have worked since November of 2005 to help patients who lose their hair while under going chemo therapy, look and feel better as they fight for their lives.

Chemo with Style classes are held every other month, and are open to all cancer patients who are losing or have lost their hair. Hospice Care of Tri-County, SCOA, local merchants, and volunteers support the classes, where they teach and fit each individual with a wig and turban, showing creative ways to wear different head gear, and offering other personal appearance tips. Scarf tying and other tricks are shared along with fun and fellowship. Classes are offered at no cost to the patient.This loosely knit support group supplies each cancer patient an oasis from the sterile medical. Through the hearts of those who are like-minded, Paulette and Terry strive to add sunshine to the day of each cancer survivor.

Contact Terry Vann-Schon for more information 803.400.1177 | 166 Stoneridge Drive, Suite 100 | Columbia, SC 29210 | www.chemowithstyle.com

The Chemo With Style events have been made possible by the donations of many caring, loving people.

Sponsors:South Carolina Oncology Associates

Hospice Care of Tri-CountyChemo With Style Volunteers

Joan Robinson, Hair to Stay

Graciously accepting Donations Please call Terry Vann-Schon for more information on how to donate.

Chemo with Style is a copyrighted program with Hospice Care of Tri-County.

Terry Vann-Schon, Tyler Ryan, and Paulette Criscione


nyone can give up, its the easiest thing in the world to do. But to hold

it together when everyone else would under-stand if you fell apart, thats true strength.

Author unknown

When I think of the survivors in the follow-ing pages the above quote is a perfect ex-ample of their courage. The survivor series is about celebrating the life, the gifts, and the joy it is to simply exist. The women in these pages have chosen to do more than exist.

ficult situation. When someone has walked the path before you, someone who didnt know how things would turn out, doesnt it make you feel like you can do it too? Why do reality shows inspire people to change their lives? Because they watched a real person accomplish what they set out to do, and now they believe they can do it as well.

When you read this section of Lexington Woman, do it with purpose. Take something away from what you read. Be inspired.

They have decided to live every day to the fullest and make the most of every moment. I like to call this section of Lexington Wom-an Magazine, The Survivor Pages. What I want you to understand is that these pages arent about cancer, they are about strength and courage. They are about second chances in life! The women in these pages open up about intimate details of their lives, for one reason and one reason only. There is healing in these pages. Nothing inspires me more than an actual first hand account of any dif-

Lex ington Woman ce lebr ates the sur v ivor in you

A


(first row) Ellyn Reid, Elaine Clary, Cindy Spires; (second row) Tara Brady, Sara Dawson, Bren Miller Cynthia Weaver;(third row) Michele Frazier, Lia Brown, Suzy Scott, Sylvia Livingston, Sheroyn McCormac

Celebrate life, strength, and courage by Lori Duncan


I am HER2 positive so I had to have weekly chemo for a year finishing in June 2008.

I now understand that its possible for anyone any healthy woman with no risk factors, to turn up with breast cancer. I was proof that cancer can hit no matter how good you take care of yourself! I found a tiny lump sev-eral months BEFORE but, for some reason, didnt worry about itmainly because I had no idea what a lump was supposed to feel like! Also, my lump did NOT show up on the

mammogram (only on ultrasound) which is even more reason to do monthly self-exams and know your body!

I approached this nightmare as a breast cancer training program. I prayed that God would eventually use me to help others through all the challenges I would experi-ence on this journey.

The biggest surprise was my ability to deal with NO hair. I had been in denial from the get go about losing my hair and freaked out every time I thought about it. I know..it was only hair.but I am a girlie girl and my hair has always been very important to me. Shortly after the first chemo treatment, my hair began to let go. Picking hairs off my clothes drove me crazy so I ended up styl-ing my hair in pigtail braids. The braids were

Bren MillerFounder of Bling 4 Breast Cancer, The Pink Posse, and The Pink Posse Philes

n March 2007, my husband and I were ready to move to Columbia, South Car-

olina from Cincinnati, Ohio. Minutes before the moving truck arrived, I received a phone call from my doctor informing me that I had been diagnosed with breast cancer. Breast Cancer???

For over 30 years, I had worked out faithful-ly and ran several marathons so, ME???...with breast cancer??? How did I get breast cancer? Am I going to die? What about my

hair? Honestly, I am embarrassed to admit that for a moment, I was more worried about losing my hair than having cancer!

In shock, I handed the phone to my hus-band and fell to the floor crying in the midst of packed boxes. My husband spoke to the doctor, picked me up off the floor and put his arms around me. Moving was the last thing on our minds! We intended to leave for Columbia after the furniture was loaded, but obviously, had to change our plans. At that time, I began visiting doctors, hospitals, experiencing all kinds of tests and proce-dures, and dealing with the emotions that come with this kind of news. It is amazing how such a tiny lump can change your life!

We finally made it to South Carolina in time for my first chemotherapy on June 1, 2007.

I successful because the hairs stopped drop-ping all over me! My only fear was that the pigtails might fall off!

THEN, it was time to wash my hair. I pulled the rubber bands out of the pigtails and my hair fell out in HUGE chunks! OH MY GOODNESS..I had a mess.My hair was totally LETTING GO!!!!!! I yelled for my husband to bring the scissors. I hung my head over the sink and begin chopping it off at the scalp! NOW, it was time for my personal barber (my husband Greg) to take over. Greg did a great job shaving my head and enjoyed every minute of it! But, heres the unbelievable part of the story: I did not shed ONE single tear!!! NOT ONE!!! I actu-ally liked the new DO.

I never wore a wigI learned that a bandana can be a very important accessory when moving to a new city! So many people in Co-lumbia reached out to me when I wore my CROWN! Yes, people came up to me and in-troduced themselves..I felt I had moved to the friendliest city in the country! My Ban-dana Crown brought so many new friends into my life.people I would not have met if I had blended into a crowd wearing a wig.

Since my last treatment in June 2008, my life has been filled with tons of changes. New city, new home, new friends, and NEW hair? Before cancer, my hair was long, straight, and blondeMy new hair is curly, and very dark brown! It is still pretty weird for me to look in the mirror and see the dark hair! For a long time, I barely recognized myself and sometimes I even miss my bald head on hot, humid South Carolina days!

Throughout my year of chemotherapy and multiple surgeries; I found it very hard to look in a mirror. My body had changed so much and I really didnt like the reflection of myself. At times, I would stand in front of the mirror and say, Who Are YOU? See, before cancer I was Brenda and my way of dealing with the physical changes was to change my name to Bren. As Bren, I started my life over with more wisdom, more compassion,

Celebrating the Survivor in You!

Bren at the Pink Posse photo shoot


I now understand that its possible for anyone any healthy woman with no risk factors, to turn up with breast cancer. I was proof that cancer can hit no matter how good you take care of yourself!



more love and more life than ever beforethankful for every single day God gives meappreciating ev-ery moment and never taking any-thing for grantedespecially giving encouragement and hope to others dealing with breast cancer.

All through my life, smiling and having a positive attitude has always been very easy for me. Therefore, with cancer, I have only concentrat-ed on the good in everything I have experienced while singing my fa-vorite hymn Leaning on the Ever-lasting Arms. The Bible says, The eternal God is your refuge, and un-derneath are the everlasting arms. If lifes storms are overwhelming you, climb up into your Heavenly Fathers arms, feel the beat of His heart, and rest assured Hes bigger than the storm youre facing.

Part of my healing has been the cre-ation of BLING 4 Breast Cancer. This is a way for everyone to join to-gether and raise money to help find a cure because we all know someone with breast cancer and we all have unwanted fashion jewelry!

The 2009 Mirror of Hope was made from jewelry donations from

approximately 100 people. I pray that anyone fighting breast cancer will be able to one day look in a mir-ror with a smile on their face and thank God for their blessings as I have been able to do.

In this season of my life, I am grate-ful for a new purpose and mean-ing. God continues to bless my life in so many ways. He didnt give me cancer, but He is watching what I do with itI want to give Him the glory and please Him in all that I do. A few years ago my cancer would have been a death sentence and I am committed to doing my part to help find a cure.

A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a downcast spirit dries up the bones.

Proverbs 17:22 KJV

This article is brought to you by Dems Fine Jewelers. Visit www.demsjewelers.com, call (803) 407-5290, or see their ad on page 23.

Bren after losing her hair

The biggest surprise was my ability to deal with NO hair...I did not shed ONE single tear!!! I actually liked the new DO.

Pick one for mom.

Made with CRYSTALLIZED - Swarovski Elements. Chamilia, Inc. 2010. All rights reserved.

Limited Edition Mothers Day Bead.Designed in sterling silver with pink Swarovski crystals.

Exclusively from Chamilia. Only for her.

1068 Lake Murray BlvdIrmo, SC 29063(803)-407-5290www.demsjewelers.com

Bren Miller is the founder of The Pink Posse and The Pink Posse Phile Support Group. The Pink Posse has been the number one fundraising team for the last two years in the Palmetto Health Foundations Walk for Life raising over $20,000 for breast cancer. The Pink Posse and The Pink Posse Philes are a group of loving friends roped together with the common bond of giving encouragement and support to others with breast cancer. We are a powerful Posse with a purpose and a passion to remain positive and please God as we raise awareness, and do our part in the fight for a cure. Yee Haw!


hhh I screamed as I bent over in pain. My neighbors, my husband,

and my daughter all stopped what they were doingMy daughter had squirmed out of my lap and elbowed me in the side of my left breastI felt like I was on fire. The words of Brittany Barfield. A wife, mother, and friendalso a breast cancer survivor.

It was January, 2007. 2006 had been a tough year for Brittany, at the time 28 years old, as she had lost her grandmother, stood by her year old daughter in the hospital for 11 days,

lost her job due to downsizing, followed by her husband losing his, and her brother was killed in a car accident. The lump she found shortly after the day her daughter elbowed her added to a time what some might find completely insurmountable.

After her discovery of the lump, Brittany called her OBGYN, who said, Youve defi-nitely got something here. There wasnt ini-tial alarm, as her mother had dealt with cysts throughout her life, dealing with Fibrocys-tic Disease. Brittany assumed she was sim-ply the next in the family line to have cysts; which are simply drained and go away. Even her radiologist initially thought everything looked ok. As expected, this lump began to shrink, giving the indication that the diagno-sis was right, until one night, while reading, she discovered three more.

With the next set of tests came word from the radiologist that everything was still ok, and the two tumors and cyst were all benign. The decision was made to remove the mass, which was described as the head of Mickey Mouse.

It was early, the morning she got the tele-phone call, as she was on her way to drop her daughter off before heading to work. Could she come to the office at three thirty that afternoon? Yes. Three thirty seemed a life-time away. After she got to work, she called

her doctor back and simply asked. Do I have breast can-cer? Yes.

After calls to her Mom and husband, Brittany decided to stay at work, even with the clock ticking to three thirty, already accepting her fate, and what steps she had to take at this point.

Brittany wasnt alone in the news, or her fight. Her mom, who she calls her Rock, was planning to retire and take care of her mother. This day

changed that plan, as she immediately told Brittany she was going home, packing a bag, and moving in.

Brittany kept her job as a Title Curator for Roger Townsend, and Thomas, until her Surgery in June, at which point, she took a leave of absence. The following nine rounds of chemo, which lasted a year or so, left her unable to work for most of it.

Brittany, who had faced breast cancer head on, took her hair loss in much the same fash-ion. Instead of letting the cancer control that part, I shaved my head.

During her battle, it was her family, friends, and the nurses that gave her the strength to fight. In fact, it was the compassion of the nurses that have given Brittany her true call-ing. Nursing. It was that strength that they

showed every day that has fueled her passion to be there for someone else.

The year had passed, chemo, radiation, the Red Devils, the buttons, the faith, the sup-port, finally the day that scans showed no cancerPraise Jesus!

Through the process, Brittany didnt talk much with those outside her support net-work, but when her aunt mentioned that she had a friend named Mandy Bowden who was also fighting breast cancer, she agreed to call her. They just clicked. They decided to meet at Travinia Italian Kitchen for a cocktail. The drink of choice is now Buddies famous Tati-ni martini. Amy Kinard joined them for that initial meeting, together they all found a deep connection. It was this meeting, and the addition of Kim Hamrick and Jessica McCain that founded the Ta-tinis.

Brittany is still cancer free, and still on follow-up medication including Tamoxifen. She has hot flashes, and is still building her strength back from the battle with breast cancer. Her hair has grown back, although she says she would shave it again in a skinny minute. It could even be a challenge at the upcoming Fight Like A Girl fund raising event that we see GI Jane. If the right donation came in at the party, it could be a quick trip to CVS for some razors.

Her lessons? She found her calling as a nurse, and is applying and hopeful she will find a nursing program. She also passes along the advice to awaken. Search for what your call-ing is. Live lifefor good. Go for it.

This article is brought to you by Dems Fine Jew-elers. Visit www.demsjewelers.com, call (803) 407-5290, or see their ad on page 23.

A



In fact, it was the compassion of the nurses that have given Brittany her true calling. Nursing.

Brittany at the 2009 Survivingthe Holidays Fashion Show

Brittany Barfieldby Tyler Ryan


SocialColumbia.com is a place to network, meet new people, play games, search jobs, watch videos, blog

and more. Sign up today, it's fast and free!See every home listed for sale in

the Midlands at DebbieChesney.com

Business & Web Directory

Accessories Kicks Exceptional Shoes ................................................17 www.shopatkicks.com

Animal Hospital Grace Pets Animal Hospital ............................................9 www.gracepets.com

Arts & Entertainment Art Imitating Life ..............................................................7 www.art-imitating-life.com

Attorney The Law Office of Richard Breibart, LLC ....................18 www.palmettofamilylaw.com

Dentist Palmetto Comprehensive Dentistry .............................14

Gymnastics Renegade Gymnastics & Cheer Academy .....................7 www.renegadegymnastics.com

Health Services Chemo with Style ............................................................20 www.chemowithstyle.com Moore Orthopaedics ......................................................12 www.mooreclinic.com SC Ovarian Cancer Foundation ...................................11 www.scOvarianCancer.org

Hospital Lexington Medical Center .........................................2, 10 www.lexmed.com

Jewelry Dems.................................................................................23 www.demsjewelers.com The Chapman Company ................................................15 www.thechapmancompany.com

Marketing Services The Tyler Ryan Group. .....................................................4 www.tylerryangroup.com

Realtor Debbie Chesney, Coldwell Banker ...............................25 www.debbiechesney.com Melissa Kyzer, Russell & Jeffcoat ...................................19

Restaurant Thai Wasabi .......................................................................6 www.thaiwasabi.net Travinia Italian Kitchen ...................................................8 www.traviniaitaliankitchen.com

Salon Palmetto Styles ..................................................................5

Social Networking SocialColumbia.com ......................................................25 www.socialcolumbia.com

Therapy Creative Therapy .............................................................11 www.mytherapycentercolumbia.com

Documents

Lexington Woman Magazine