Lexwoman Purple Balloons

Celebrating the Survivor in You!

Table of Contents

From The Editor......................................................................................................3 Things I Love about Lexington................................................................4 Let’s Talk Pay Attention!............................................................................................................................5 Clark Berry Photography...................................................................................................6 The Art of Great Gift-Giving...........................................................................................8 “Value Each Moment” How Lexington’s Nikki Haley Balances Being A Mom, Businesswoman & State Representative............................................... 10 Photograph by Cynthia Pace Photography

Woman 2 Woman Enterprises PO Box 85282 Lexington, SC 29073 (803) 808.0866 www.newwoman2woman.com Editor-In-Chief: Lori Samples Duncan ([email protected])

Health & Wellness Women and Hidden Attention Problems............................................................. 12 Preventing Preterm Birth: Understanding the Essentials................................... 13 Leah Scott................................................................................................................................14 Dr. Steven J. and Jennifer Hutchinson....................................................................... 16 Stress Management............................................................................................................ 18 Why See a Dermatologist Once a Year................................................................. 20 You and Your Body.............................................................................................................. 22

Wedding

Sales & Marketing: Michelle Boggs Carey Hall Lauri Truesdale

Choosing the Right Photographer............................................................................. 24 Wedding Directory............................................................................................................ 25

Contributing Writers: Anthony Buzzetti Donna Rush Chumley Lori Samples Duncan Ashby Jones Mindy Kyzer Jared Kyzer Tim Loonam, DVM Kathryn L. Moore, MD Bob Phillips, PhD Psychologist Lydia Ramsey Dr. Gayle Rozantine, PhD, B.C.S.M. Elaine Samples Wally Steinhauser Sarah Straney Lauri Truesdale Shasta Verdin Dr. Michelle Welch

Chappelle Broom................................................................................................................ 26 The Etiquette of Sympathy What to do When Someone You Know Suffers a Loss.................................................. 29 Thompsons Funeral Home............................................................................................ 31

Publication Layout and Ad Design: Melissa Wates Photography: Cynthia Pace Photography Survivor Photography: Clark Berry Photography 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. © 2008

Spotlight on West Columbia

Kid’s Stuff Decorating a Room with Your Child........................................................................ 32 Sarah Dippity.........................................................................................................................33 Karen Petta..............................................................................................................................34

A Day in the Old Mill..................................................................................... 36 Pets The Importance of Socializing Your Pet.................................................................. 38

Services Wingards Nursery.............................................................................................................. 40 Adult Home Care: Independent Contractors vs. Home Care Companies.................................................... 42

Professional What to Consider when Contemplating Divorce........................................... 44 What is Supplemental Health Insurance?.............................................................. 47 Women and Investing: Your Special Financial Considerations.................... 48 Bank Meridian........................................................................................................................50 Melissa Kyzer..........................................................................................................................52 Why Was Rush’s the Right Choice for Me?......................................................... 54



Table of Contents Entertainment & Travel The Event Planner of the Midlands........................................................................... 55 Jessica Judge............................................................................................................................56

Celebrating the Survivor in You

The Survivor Photo Shoot............................................................................................. 59 Paulette Criscione............................................................................................................... 60 “Chemo with Style”............................................................................................................ 61 Thank You.................................................................................................................................62 Amy Kinard.............................................................................................................................64 Diane Conyers......................................................................................................................66 Martha Shealy........................................................................................................................68

Web Directory........................................................................................................ 70 Business Directory............................................................................................ 71 A Personal Note................................................................................................... 72

Photograph by Cynthia Pace Photography

WOMAN 2 WOMAN ENTERPRISES

Celebrating the Achievements of Women IN BUSINESS, THE COMMUNITY AND LIFE

“We know what an exceptional business you are, let us get your message out to those who don’t.” Call To Advertise With Us

(803) 808-0866 www.newwoman2woman.com [email protected] P.O. Box 85282 | Lexington, SC 29073

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From the Editor

Welcome to

Welcome to Lexington Woman! What a wonderful place to live and raise a family. Working in Lexington has been my immense pleasure! This publication is meant to truly simplify your life! It is our desire to bring to Greater Lexington residents a “Best of the Best” right from the mouths of real women. Each of the businesses within these pages has made a personal commitment to you, “The Lexington Woman,” to conduct themselves in a way that would make you want to personally refer them, their products, services, or talents to your mother, sister, grandmother, best friend, and any other person in need of their expertise. In our articles on individual Lexington Women, we want to Celebrate, Motivate and Inspire other real women. Take a closer look at some of the women in these pages that are providing you with quality services and products. We will continue to bring to you services, products, and professionals who are dependable, customer service oriented businesses, making Lexington Woman your premiere resource guide to help assist you with the demands of everyday life. This is our Survivor issue and we hope that the stories of other women in our community who have overcome a life threatening disease will inspire you to overcome and survive something in your own life. We want to celebrate the survivor in all of us! In this edition, we chose to spotlight some very noteworthy businesses in West Columbia. We are certain these businesses can offer you the type of quality service that will have you referring them to others. Let us know what you think. We appreciate the support of our readers as well as our clients, and we ask that you let our advertisers know that you were referred to them directly by Lexington Woman! No matter when you came to Lexington County, born here or just moved in, Lexington Woman has discovered many wonderful things in and around the area you deserve to know about. Treat yourself to a day at the Old Mill, or get a new color and style with my personal stylist Danielle at Palmetto Styles. Do something for you! As always, feel free to contact us via our website www.newwoman2woman.com; we want to hear from you! Share your ideas as well as your own personal successes and struggles. I can’t wait to meet again, and until we do, keep it simple. We deserve that! Your friend,

Photograph by Cynthia Pace Photography

Lori Samples Duncan Editor



Things I Love about

Lexington

Things We Love about Lexington! Lori Samples Duncan

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ere are some of the things we love about Lexington. Things we know people drive across the bridge for. I love going into Mae’s on Main Street and Mrs. Mae herself personally greeting and attending me while I look at the beautiful selection of jewelry and clothing.

butterfly footprints shown here, for only $25.00 you can have your child’s keepsake created, glazed, and mounted in a trivet for hanging on the wall or displaying on 4.00 4 $ a stand. What a wonderful thing ce la al Neck opp Cryst for a new mommy! Smoky T 36 4 07 SKU001

I love that Lexington County has more than one HandPicked. Here are two of my favorite selections from Handpicked.

I love eating at Shealy’s on Saturday night and Mrs. Shealy taking money as you exit the restaurant and telling us to have a good evening. I love Rush’s slaw dogs, and my entire family insist on getting a Rush’s milkshake for the road when they visit from North Georgia. I love The Studio in Lexington, where you can make the most adorable art with your children’s foot or hand print. Karen Petta and her staff offer unique ways to spend the afternoon with the kids, taking an art class or making jewelry, not to mention the wonderful gift ideas for Grandparents and new parents. My favorite thing is the

I love Hudson’s barbeque. Dented Link Pairs $64.00 SKU 00107267

I love neighbors that talk to one another and invite you over for cookouts and celebrations. I love middle school politics—Carolina Springs Middle school elected the first female president of their sixth grade class, Jenna Williams. I love strangers who sit on their front porches, all over Lexington County, and wave when you drive by.

Art print courtesy of Art Imitating Life!, Joe and Karen Tingen

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Let’s Talk

Pay Attention!

Pastor Mark Crumpton, Lexington Church of God

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ay attention in class!” This is a phrase I have heard many times in life; but now I find that I am saying it to myself. God has called us all to be disciples (students) and life is the classroom. Most recently I have taken notice of my children and the profound love they have for all of God’s creation, family, strangers, and animals. When I pay attention, I see that God has given us children

“When I pay attention, I see that God has given us children to show us and to teach us of his deep and profound love for all creation to include sinful mankind” to show us and to teach us of his deep and profound love for all creation to include sinful mankind. My children don’t judge people for the way they dress, the color of their skin, or the way someone may look. They teach me how to be more accepting of all God’s children. Children are always eager and excited to help anyone in need. Though they may appear stingy or selfish at times, they will gladly give up their most prized possession to someone who truly needs it. Allow me to illustrate this point by telling you how my then 7 year old daughter shared Christmas with a family in need. A few years ago, on Christmas night, a home in my subdivision was completely destroyed by a fire. We didn’t know the people who lived there but I was the president of the homeowners association and was informed of the family’s needs. I mentioned to my wife that the family had children about the same age as ours and to gather up some clothes to take to them. My daughter heard and realized that this little girl had lost everything including her Christmas presents. She brought me her favorite new Christmas doll and some other new Christmas gifts to take because that little girl “needed it.”

Friends, I believe that God has given us children to teach us what true love really is. Unconditional love is a difficult concept for us to understand; yet, children not only understand it, they will teach us if we simply “pay attention.” God loves us all with this same kind of love. His love is an endless and unconditional love. No matter what you may have done in your past and no matter what you may look like to the rest of the world, God LOVES you. God too is eager to help anyone in need; and today he is offering to you his most prized possession. John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. (KJV) Pastor Mark Crumpton, Lexington Church of God 1228 S. Lake Dr | Lexington SC 29073 (803) 957-6675

Photograph by Cynthia Pace Photography



Let’s Talk

Clark Berry Photography Clark & Becki Berry

Photograph by Clark Berry Photography

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or many couples the idea of actually working with their spouse isn’t so appealing. This isn’t the case for Clark and Becki Berry. They began taking pictures, mostly of their children and friends’ children, in the evening and on weekends. This quickly developed into a full time job and, despite the benefit of a successful career in electrical engineering, Clark decided to leave his “day job” to pursue a career in photography. Clark says, “The best advice I’ve ever received is to find out what you love to do and then figure out a way to make it your career.” Their photography business does just that for Clark and Becki. It allows them to photograph children of all ages, high school seniors, executives, couples, brides and grooms. They photograph in their studio in the Old Mill in Lexington and “just about any location you can imagine.” The Old Mill location provides clients with not only traditional portraits on beautiful backgrounds but also window light portraits with the century old brick and original wood flooring of the mill. The couple particularly enjoys meeting the variety of people that they have the opportunity to photograph. “Having our clients become emotional after seeing what we have created for them is very rewarding. It is what motivates us and keeps us looking forward to our next opportunity to photograph a wedding or portrait.” One mother of the bride, whom Clark and Becki worked with, shared this about her experience, “They do a beautiful job, and it is not photography, its art. What Clark can do with his camera is absolute art!” Their business allows for a flexible schedule, a particularly beneficial

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part of Clark Berry Photography. Although Clark and Becki put in a lot of hours, they are able to do things with their family during weekdays that many “9 to 5ers” do not have the flexibility to achieve. “Working together as husband and wife and doing something that we both love to do has been a definite blessing to our marriage and family.” Clark and Becki attribute their success to, first and foremost, God, who “has given us our talent, heart and our vision.” Next, they highlight individuality as an important factor. “We have found success by being ourselves and not being afraid to be different. Photography is art. Doing the same thing as everyone else is a recipe for mediocrity. Create what moves and inspires you, and success will take care of itself.” Lastly, teamwork is imperative. “Everyone has strengths and weaknesses,” says Clark. “Surround yourself with others who balance your weaker areas. Becki and I have different talents and strengths and we’ve found that we balance each other well.” This was very important to them as they added Megan, their first employee, to their team. Carefully selecting someone with a positive attitude that matched up well with their own strength and weaknesses has made her an asset to the Clark Berry Photography team. The Berry’s believe that happy people are the best people to photograph as “everyone is beautiful when they are happy.” They are passionate about taking pictures and love their job. Providing photographs which grow more valuable to the individual and their family as the year passes is immensely rewarding to this husband and wife team.

Let’s Talk



Let’s Talk

The Art of Great Gift-Giving Karen L. Tingen

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very woman has someone on her gift list who is “hard to buy for.” What’s the solution to this dilemma? Master the art of great gift-giving! You can delight even the most difficult gift recipient with an art print from Art Imitating Life. Try these tips for great gift-giving to please absolutely anyone! Give a gift that is affordable but looks expensive. Our art prints are produced from digital photography that is reimaged to have the appearance of an expensive watercolor or oil painted print. The images are then professionally printed on paper or canvas using long lasting, colorfast inks to provide beauty for decades to come Give a gift that is one-of-a-kind. A watercolor art print of Dad’s favorite Lexington golf course or Grandma’s childhood home preserves memories of happy times. This one-of-a-kind gift will evoke emotions of joy and nostalgia over and over again. Give a gift that is uniquely personal. Surprise your friend or spouse with a portrait of their child or beloved pet, reimaged using our oil painting technique and professionally printed on canvas. Art Imitating Life was born in August of 2005 when Joe and Karen Tingen, both longtime Lexington residents, combined their pas-

“Try these tips for great gift-giving to please absolutely anyone!” sion for photography, fine art and graphic design to create what they call “Fine Art Photography Watercolor Prints”. Each print begins with a multitude of photos. Only the finest photographic image is then digitally rendered into a watercolor or oil painted art print. Often, a personal photograph can be used to create home portraits as well as family or pet portraits. If you have questions about a gift for someone in your life, email Karen at [email protected] or visit her website www.art-imitating-life.com

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Let’s Talk

Photograph by Cynthia Pace Photography

“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do.” – Mark Twain Associate of Science in Business Associate of Arts in General Studies Bachelor of Science in Business Administration Bachelor of Science in Human Services Master of Science in Management Master of Business Administration Master of Education

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Let’s Talk

“Value Each Moment”

How Lexington’s Nikki Haley Balances Being A Mom, Businesswoman & State Representative Lori Samples Duncan

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t would be impossible to write a “Day in the Life” story about Lexington County’s Nikki Haley, because as she’ll tell you, no two days are ever the same. “I think every woman can relate to that feeling,” she says. “We can plan the perfect day all we want, but the world around us never seems to stick to the script.” For Nikki, those days typically start early as she and her husband, Michael, get their two children, Rena, 9, and Nalin, 6, out of bed and ready for school. By the time everyone is fed, dressed and in the

“I like working hard,” she says. “My parents recognized that when I was very young, which is why they entrusted me to manage the books for our family business when I was still in middle school. My colleagues at the State House recognized how hard I work very quickly, too. It’s just how I’m wired. I think if people are going to trust you with their votes, you have to respect that trust and reward it with your effort.” “If there is one thing I heard time and again from voters during Nikki’s first run was what a hard worker she was,” says B.J. Boling, a key member of Haley’s political team. “You couple Nikki’s unparalleled work ethic with her unquestionable character and business smarts, and it’s no wonder why she is among the upper echelon of leaders in the State House.” Regarded as one of the top policy minds in state government, Haley has helped shape several pieces of major legislation over the past few years, most notably South Carolina’s new workers’ compensation laws and a sweeping coastal insurance reform bill that passed last session. A dedicated advocate for small businesses and individual taxpayers, Haley is among the most fiscally conservative members of the S.C. General Assembly. “My experience as a small businesswoman taught me the value of a dollar,” she says. “Too often, that perspective gets overlooked in government, which is the reason I ran for office in the first place.”

car for the ten-minute ride to Midway Elementary, Nikki says her Blackberry is already loaded up with several dozen new voice, text and e-mail messages. “That’s when the list you wrote before bed the night before pretty much goes out the window,” she says. “But I wouldn’t trade those moments with my kids for anything in the world. I know I’ve got a hectic day ahead of me each morning, but I also know that my children are a gift from God, and the great thing about my kids is I get to feed off of their energy and their exuberance.” That same approach goes for Nikki’s two equally-demanding jobs, one as Chief Financial Officer for her family’s clothing store, Exotica, and the other as a rising star in the South Carolina General Assembly. First elected in 2004, Haley has quickly risen through the ranks as a state legislator. She was the chairwoman of her Freshman Caucus and now serves as a Majority Whip and an influential member of the powerful House Labor, Insurance and Commerce Committee. 10 Resources for Women by Women

Even with such an impressive policy resume, Nikki says her most important job is serving the people of Lexington County. Specifically, she says her goal is to preserve the sense of community and “unique quality of life that makes living here so special.” “I love policy and I love doing a lot of the heavy lifting on the important issues we face as a state, but my heart is with the people of Lexington County,” she says. “Our community, our schools, our

“...my heart is with the people of Lexington County...” churches, our families—each one of those things is a huge part of who I am as a person, and like so many people in my district, it’s why I choose to live, work and raise my family here.” Drawing from her own experiences helps Haley understand the needs of her community better, resulting in better constituent service and more effective representation.

Let’s Talk “For example, I take a lot of joy in going to cheerleading practice with my daughter, Rena,” Haley says. “That’s something I know thousands of moms and dads enjoy, too, and if they can enjoy it without having to worry about sprawl and traffic and out-of-control taxes, then I’m doing my job. If I can help take worries like that off of people’s plates so that they can enjoy living in this wonderful community, then I’m accomplishing something that matters.”

“If you don’t think every day is a good day, just try missing one.” — Cavett Robert

Some days Haley gets up to 100 e-mails from her constituents asking for her help on various issues. “I have 35,000 constituents, and every one of them has something they are passionate about or want to see changed, created, done away with or improved,” she says. “And my constituents are very engaged. I don’t understand it when some of my colleagues complain about the stacks of letters, phone messages and e-mails we get every day because I love it. It’s what we signed up to do, and the fact that someone took the time to write or call and ask for my help means a lot, whether they voted for me or not. Sometimes it’s just taking the time to listen or pointing them in the right direction, but a lot of the requests I get are quite involved. Those are the ones I love to take on, not just because it’s a challenge but because you really get to know people in the process. I’ve made a lot of pen pals over the past four years, a lot of new friends I’m grateful to have.” So what is Nikki Haley’s secret? How does she balance motherhood, work and public life with such grace and good cheer? “It’s probably a cliché to say ‘it’s all in how you look at it,’ but that’s true for me,” she says. “I look at everything as an opportunity, even if at first glance it seems like it’s going to be a problem or an inconvenience. I’m not perfect by any means, and like every woman, every mother, I struggle at times with how much the world seems to put on our shoulders. There’s no secret recipe to getting it right, and I think knowing that there isn’t some magic formula out there is a big step in realizing the potential God gives us. We just have to do the best we can and value each moment.”

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Health & Wellness

Women and Hidden Attention Problems Bob Phillips, Ph.D. Psychologist

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hen most people think of ADD (attention deficit disorder) or ADHD (same thing but with hyperactivity added) most people think of a young boy running wild in a class room or in a store. They imagine the teacher or mother franticly beseeching the child to slow down and behave. But what about girls and women who have an attention problem? Where are they and what do they look like? Only a few years ago it was a widely held belief that the number of boys with an attention problem outnumbered the girls by a ratio of eight to one. Even if you asked a teacher he or she would have probably agreed that there were a lot more boys than girls with an attention problem than there were girls with an attention problem. But we know now that is simply not the case. In fact there are probably as many girls and women with an attention disorder as there are boys and men. They just look different, sound different and need to be treated differently. Today we are beginning to understand that there are several types of attention problems. While it is true that hyperactivity is more common in males than females, there are several non-hyperactive forms of the disorder that are much more common in females. These forms of the disorder are frequently much harder to spot than a hyperactive boy tearing up a hymnal in church. Some of the symptoms of these are spacing out when you want to be focused on reading or listening to a speaker, such as a teacher or boss. Some women with an attention deficit problem feel constantly behind, overwhelmed and frazzled. Some feel that their lives are so out of control so they rarely invite friends over to their homes because they are ashamed to let others see how disorganized and messy their homes are. Attention problems are not like a light switch, either on or off. Attention problems come in all levels and several forms. Many women can do well enough in school but begin to feel overwhelmed at work or in organizing and maintaining a family. Some women can do very well with one child but the wheels begin to fall off with three children. To manage children and run a household takes a lot of multitasking and quick adjustments. When you have to keep yourself on track and also be the scheduler for everyone else in the family you’r brain had better be functioning well or there will be problems. Confusion, clutter, frustration and tension quickly multiply when a woman’s brain is not functioning fully or appropriately. What is a challenge for a woman without an attention problem becomes a continuing crisis for a woman with any one of the forms of an attention deficit disorder. These women frequently suffer from low self-esteem (“Am I lazy, crazy or just stupid?”), depression (“If I were good enough I wouldn’t have all these problems.”) or some form of anxiety (“If I work harder and faster things will be all right.”). Today we know that attention disorders are a reflection of brain functioning. Sometimes you inherit the disorder from one or

12 Resources for Women by Women

both of your parents. We are also beginning to see more and more symptoms that are related to childhood head trauma such as falls or other accidents that were mostly unnoticed when symptoms did not materialize right after the incident. Some researchers are suggesting that as much as twenty percent of all attention problems are actually undiagnosed traumatic brain injuries. Regardless of where the brain dysfunction comes from the symptoms for females can be life altering and lifelong. Some of the more common symptoms of an attention problem are when you: • are frequently forgetful; frequently have trouble remembering to do important things; • were frequently told by parents or teachers that you were not trying hard enough in school when in fact you were trying hard; • have trouble completing tasks or assignments or when you jump from one task to another without finishing the first task; • are frequently over-committed, rushing and often late; • Frequently drift off into a daydream or loose a few moments when you should be paying attention; • make impulsive purchases or impulsive decisions; • have impulsive emotional reactions or react too strongly; • have been treated as if you are not smart when you know you are; • feel overwhelmed and disorganized in your daily life; Having one or two of these does not mean that you have an attention problem. But if you have several of these and they have been a part of your life for several years then you may have an attention deficit disorder. If you do find that you have this form of brain function problem you can get started on a road to a much improved life. The first step in taking responsibility for this change is to get an evaluation that will help in determining if you have this disorder. Then you can get help by using medication or by using a method of retraining your brain function called neurotherapy. Some women begin by using the medication and then taper off of the medication as their brain function improves with the neurotherapy. These things can change, but it takes action to make that change happen. Dr. Bob Phillips is a psychologist and the Clinical Director of the Brain Bright Neurotherapy Center in West Columbia, South Carolina—(803) 360-9698. For more information, visit wwwBrainBright.com.

Health & Wellness

Preventing Preterm Birth: Understanding the Essentials Kathryn L. Moore, MD

“...it’s important for you to do everything you can to prevent preterm birth.”

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regnancy comes with lots to think about and new things to consider—baby names, nursery colors, cravings and questions about what foods to eat. One thing all pregnant women should learn about is preterm birth. Understanding the facts about this common problem can help you prevent an early delivery and get back to wondering whether he’ll have your eyes. More than 150 preterm babies are born in South Carolina each week. Babies are considered premature if they are delivered before 37 weeks. These babies face many challenges. While most early babies do well, premature infants may have serious medical problems. These can include brain injury, respiratory and digestive problems, even death. Preterm babies may later suffer from developmental delays and learning difficulties. A preterm delivery can happen to anyone, but identifying certain factors helps to predict those at highest risk. A history of a prior premature birth, malformations of the cervix or uterus, or multiple gestations (twins or more) are especially important. Other associated factors may be late prenatal care, tobacco or alcohol abuse, long periods of standing, domestic violence or extreme stress. Medical issues also play a part. Diabetes, hypertension, infections, and being severely over or underweight may be involved. Unfortunately, even testing of these high risk groups may not be helpful in determining who will actually deliver early. Researchers continue to develop new tests, including genetic testing, that may prove useful.

Because it can be difficult for physicians to identify who will deliver prematurely, it’s important for you to do everything you can to prevent preterm birth. Getting early and regular prenatal care, avoiding tobacco, getting adequate rest, and reducing physical and emotional stress can help insure a healthy pregnancy. Prevention starts even before pregnancy. Maintain a healthy weight, manage chronic health problems, and provide at least 9 months between pregnancies for your body to recover. Knowing the signs and symptoms of preterm labor is essential. An increase or change in vaginal discharge, vaginal bleeding, pressure in the pelvis, low back pain, or menstrual like cramping may be early indicators. These should be reported to your obstetrician to determine what evaluation and interventions are needed. Columbia Women’s Healthcare provides the specialized prenatal care that addresses high risk issues such as preterm labor, along with delivering hundreds of healthy, term babies every year. It is one of the five sites in the nation selected to participate in a research trial investigating new treatments for preterm labor. Our goal is to provide our patients with the latest and best options to achieve optimum health, through all stages of life. columbiawhc.com (803) 254-3230

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Health & Wellness

Leah Scott Arbonne International

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2W: How did you get started with Arbonne? Leah: I initially started with Arbonne to get a great discount on my products. I loved them, but love the discount, too! Then, I began to do some research on the business part and ultimately chose to jump and make it work, the income potential, the opportunity, the growth of the company, the products unparallel in the market together was just to good to pass up. The reality, too, was after five years at home with my daughter, I was in no way wanting to go back to work in the punch-card kind of way. But our debt, lack of financial freedom, and limited giving ability was looming over us. We were also looking for a way out of the “rat race.” There are so many more things that we want out of life: Christian education for Faith, a house on Lake Murray, traveling to see family whenever we wanted and living debt free. So there are a million reasons now why I chose network marketing and specifically, Arbonne. Once connected with my sponsor, I was coached from the very beginning. She held my hand and helped me work this business, taught me what to do and is still doing that today. We work like a team and it’s an awesome way to do business! W2W: What are some of your favorite aspects of your profession? Leah: One of my favorite reasons being that I feel like I’ve tapped into some great big secret and I want to let the cat out of the bag! The old way of life, get good grades, go to college to get a good job

“When people share their dreams with you, it does something to you inside. It makes you think, pray and work towards helping them achieve those dreams.” and work until you die is just that, an old way and honestly just doesn’t really work anymore. So I love sharing other options with others that are looking to get out of the rat race. That is the most rewarding thing for me. I love seeing others succeed! Empowering men and women to move beyond themselves and serve others. Our president Rita Davenport says, “You can’t get what you want unless you help others get what they want.” When people share their dreams with you it does something to you inside. It makes you think, pray and work towards helping them achieve those dreams. Yours are still there, but I think we innately want to help others get what they want out of life. I think I used to be a dream stealer, finding real reasons why it can’t or shouldn’t be done. Not anymore, share your dream with me and I will help you get there! It’s an exhilarating part of my business. W2W: Tell us where Leah comes from? Leah: My background is relatively traditional. I had an amazing 14 Resources for Women by Women

childhood, two brothers, one sister and both sets of grandparents; a God-fearing family going back generations. I grew up in Ohio, attending Dayton Christian Schools then attended Campbell University in North Carolina on a volleyball scholarship and graduated in 2000 with a BA in Mass Communications. I’m still on a learning track, only this time one of success with people, life and community. I absolutely believe now that life’s education is based on experiences and failures. I am learning a new way to get a higher education. W2W: What skills do you possess that assist you in being good at what you do? Leah: Certainly life takes skill, but thankfully they are learned! I possessed a certain amount of skill when I started my Arbonne business, but because of how this business is conducted it opened the door to reprogram my brain to think bigger and better and really to think outside the box. Arbonne trains on listening skills, how to set goals, how to help those around you succeed, how to motivate yourself into action and other people. I have learned so much in the last two years, a type of education I wouldn’t trade for my college degree! We learn as a team so we teach and train each other and that makes it so rewarding. My biggest “skill” now is that I am learning how to be more “coachable”, which will impact my learning curve forever! W2W: What would your friends say about how you handle yourself professionally? Leah: My friends would say I am hard working, passionate and that I conduct my business with integrity and service. Personally, they know me as a good mother and wife—generous, enthusiastic and genuine. W2W: What are three words to describe you and why? Leah: Loud, out-going and a little over the top. Frankly, I annoy myself sometimes, ha, ha. But we are so much harder on ourselves then we need to be, and the truth is I love who God made me. The challenge is becoming who God wants me to be, the best version of myself. One of my favorite authors, Matthew Kelly is teaching me about that. W2W: Who are your female role models who have inspired you to make the most of your life? Leah: I am so inspired by my mother, a wonder-woman of sorts who taught me to give it a try, step out in faith and expect great things and most importantly to forgive, forgive and forgive. I have two other role models in my life right now, one being Becki Barns from Edmond, Oklahoma. Becki models for me humility and courage; she is my leader with a limp (she would admit it) and I love her for teaching me that. Because that’s what I am, a leader with a limp. I’m not “qualified” to be doing what I am doing, just blessed to do so in spite of my faults and mistakes. And that lesson

Health & Wellness is for everyone. Lead with your limp. Another role model is my friend and neighbor, Jenna Polk. Jenna stepped out on a limb (and her own limp) to change her life in ways that are immeasurable. She models faith, persistence, courage, wisdom and determination to me daily and I love her for that, too. W2W: Share a favorite quote with us that inspires you to be a better you? Leah: Wow, I have so many, but one of my favorites is from our President Rita Davenport who said, “Get your big girl panties on and deal with it.” This is also from the same woman who said, “My job is to love you and your job is to love each other.” Rita also said, “I hate to brag, but I sell Arbonne!” W2W: What is your greatest achievement? Leah: One of my greatest achievements is simply that I get out of bed every morning! I am so not the morning person. I truly believe

my greatest achievement is still yet to be achieved; I simply can’t look back at 29 years and say that I accomplished anything “great” but there is so much more to do. I’ve been warned not to say, “I am too young” when Mozart wrote his first symphony at 8 years old, and Tiger Woods broke 50 for 9 holes of golf at 3 years old, and Anne Frank who at 13 began her diaries, and Ralph Waldo Emerson enrolled at Harvard at 14 years old. I’ve also been warned about saying, “I’m too old” when Dom Perignon who at 60 years old produced his first glass of champagne, and Nelson Mandela who at 71 years old was released from more than 20 years in prison to then 4 years later be elected president of South Africa at 75, and Ben Franklin who at 79 years old invented bifocals, and Mother Teresa who at 40 years old dreamed a new dream and impacted the world for the next 20 years with her service in Calcutta, and Hulda Crooks who at 91 years old conquered Mt. Fuji. My greatest accomplishment is that I can dream a new dream everyday, and God has given me a life to go after my dreams.

15

Health & Wellness

Dr. Steven J. and Jennifer Hutchinson Lori Samples Duncan

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r. Steven J. Hutchinson always knew he wanted to be in the medical profession. It was when a dentist mentored him at a very young age that he chose to follow in his footsteps. Solving the problems of his patients and helping them achieve healthy dental hygiene is part of what he loves about dentistry. Dr. Hutchinson graduated from the Citadel with a BS in Biology and then continued his education for his DMD at MUSC. With a baby face and a sweet disposition, his problem solving skills and his tendency toward perfectionism, help Dr. Hutchinson easily spot a problem and quickly decide on a course of action in order to give his patients optimal results. After my first visit with Dr. Hutchinson, my impression was that he was genuinely a nice guy and a great dentist. His discovery of an issue that I had no idea was there was easy to spot once he pointed

Photograph by Cynthia Pace Photography

16 Resources for Women by Women

it out, on a screen right in his office that showed me through a special camera exactly what the inside of my mouth looked like. YUCK! “All my patients are my friends,” Dr. Hutchinson says, and he is exactly right. It is hard not to smile when you think of him and his team. One of his patients said, “I can see myself hanging out with them, watching the football game. What a great couple.” His mother and his sister were important female role models to

Health & Wellness

“One of his patients said, ‘I can see myself hanging out with them, watching the football game. What a great couple.’”

him. His father and Dr. Cody Fishburne, DMD had the biggest impact on Dr. Hutchinson professionally. Dr. Fishburne was the mentor who helped guide him in his career. “Treat everyone as you want to be treated” is Dr. Hutchinson’s philosophy. Of course behind every good man is a hard working woman! I wanted to share a little about his wife as well. When they became our dentist, we had no idea we would enjoy them as people so much. New to the area and having had a bad experience with the first dentist we were referred to, we were a little worried. After the first visit, our worries were put to rest. Jennifer gives the best cleaning I personally have ever had, and my five year old son remembers both their names after only two visits. I would refer them to any family looking for a dentist who truly cares about their teeth. Jennifer loves “making women feel good about

“All my patients are my friends,” Dr. Hutchinson says, and he is exactly right.” their smile. Whether it’s with cosmetic veneers, cosmetic whitening or a general cleaning, women like to feel beautiful and with a great smile we will smile more often and have better self esteem.” “I care for my patients like family. I take time to diagnose periodontal disease and other diseases of the mouth. I help guide my patients to whatever help they need,” she says. “I not only discuss diseases of the mouth but overall health; I want my patients to talk with me about anything.” Like Steven, she is a perfectionist, feeling that the more orderly the office runs, the better they can serve their patients. They are honest

and caring, asking frequently, “What if it was me; what would I do?” Her female role models include her mother and Steven’s mother, “Two hard working women who know that honesty and hard work is the best path to follow.” While she is a perfectionist when it comes to your dental care, Jennifer adopts this favorite quote about the other stresses of every day life, “Don’t sweat the small stuff.” I asked her what male in her life has had the biggest impact on her both personally and professionally. “It would be hard to single out any one male role model. I would say friends through college who would always encourage me to fulfill my dreams and be a strong woman. The doctors that I work with daily discussing treatment plans for patients—these people enrich my life with knowledge and inspiration.” My last question to Jennifer was, “What is your greatest achievement?” “Having our own dental office, sharing that with my husband, because we can now offer the best care possible for our patients, I’m able to make my patients healthier and happier while watching them smile!” Palmetto Comprehensive Dentistry is a Delta Dental Provider.

Dr. Steven J. Hutchinson, DMD Jennifer P. Hutchinson, RDH Cosmetic | Restorative | Preventive

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

Now Accepting New Patients 17

Health & Wellness

Stress Management

Gayle S. Rozantine, Ph.D., B.C.S.M., Clincal Phsychologist

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e all know what it is like to feel stressed. We may feel irritable, jumpy, and tense. We may have difficulty sleeping, which leaves us feeling tired and reduces our ability to work effectively and make good decisions. Our muscles may become tense, leading to headaches, backaches, clenched teeth and sore jaws, or overall muscle pain. We may have stomach aches, acid reflux, nausea, or diarrhea. Our blood pressure may increase,

“What makes a situation stressful for one person, while another person feels stimulated or challenged by the same set of circumstances?” and we may have heart palpitations. We may have hot flashes or our hands and feet may become cold. We may feel dizzy and have difficulty breathing. These are common symptoms we experience when we feel overwhelmed by situations we consider stressful. What makes a situation stressful for one person, while another person feels stimulated or challenged by the same set of circumstances? The answer lies in our perception, or view, of the position in which we find ourselves. Stress occurs when we believe that the

demands of the situation exceed our ability to adequately meet those demands. We may feel inadequate to cope with the situation, because our personal or social resources are limited. Although we often think of stress as being negative, stress can create positive or negative feelings. Stressful situations can have a positive influence on us by motivating us to take action, acquire new skills, increase our awareness and insight, and develop a new perspective. Stress has a negative influence on us when it causes us to feel overwhelmed, rejected, angry, or depressed. There are many factors that influence our level of stress: Attitude. Our attitude determines whether a situation or emotion is stressful or not. A person with a negative attitude typically reports more stress than someone with a positive attitude. Nutrition. Poor nutrition places the body in a state of physical stress and at risk of infection. Poor nutrition can be caused by unhealthy food choices, inadequate food intake, an irregular eating schedule, or substance abuse. This form of physical stress decreases our ability to deal with situations that are perceived as difficult or unmanageable because malnutrition affects the way our brain processes information. Exercise. Inadequate physical activity can create a stressful state for the body. A program of regular physical activity will improve your mood and increase your feeling of well-being. Support systems. Everyone needs someone in their life to share their experiences, especially when they are having a hard time. The lack of adequate support makes stressful situations more difficult to manage. Relaxation. People who do not know how to relax are less able to handle stressful situations because they do not know how to manage their stress. You may be wondering if it is possible to eliminate stress from your life. Our goal is not to eliminate stress, but to learn how to manage it. What can you do to manage the stress in your life? Identifying unrelieved stress and being aware of its effect on our lives is a first step, but it is not sufficient for reducing the harmful effects of stress. Just as there are many sources of stress, there are many ways of managing it. Learning to manage stress requires a willingness to work toward change. We must identify the sources of stress and change our reaction to it. We know from research that the most fundamental strategy for creating and maintaining balance and health is learning what is known as the relaxation response, the term we use to describe

18 Resources for Women by Women

Health & Wellness the deep state of relaxation attained when one focuses attention on breathing and mindfully letting go of muscle tension. Learning to trigger the relaxation response is known to reduce tension, to reduce pain, to ease gastrointestinal disturbance, to relieve insomnia, and to reduce anxiety and depression. It has also been found to increase immune system functioning so that your overall health improves. It is effective in reducing blood pressure, which is especially beneficial for those suffering from hypertension and other cardiovascular disorders. Learning the relaxation response teaches you to cope with the hassles of everyday life and helps you to reduce your overall stress. After learning to elicit the relaxation

response, you will find that your physical health improves.Learning the relaxation response through a structured stress management program is an important step in learning how to manage the stress in your life. Gayle S. Rozantine, Ph.D., B.C.S.M., Clinical Psychologist The Center for Health and Well-Being, PC Diplomate, Board Certified in Stress Management The American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress www.quietawakening.com

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19

Health & Wellness

Why See a Dermatologist Once a Year Michelle D. Welch, M.D., Board Certified Dermatologist

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et a skin check from a dermatologist every year. Skin cancer is on the rise and if undetected it can kill you. A tiny spot on the skin can be a harmless freckle or a deadly skin cancer. So, I highly recommend a complete skin check by a dermatologist at least once a year and more frequently if you have a history of skin cancer. Check your own skin monthly and if something doesn’t look right or has changed go see your dermatologist. There is an acronym to assist you in checking moles and other spots known as the A,B,C,D danger signs. • A stands for “asymmetry.” If a mole is asymmetrical it is “lopsided” and not symmetrical. • B stands for “border irregularities.” Look at the border of the mole. Is it smooth or jagged? Does the color of the mole bleed into the surrounding tissue? • C stands for “color changes.” Any color changes are important, but especially so if the mole gets darker. • D stands for “diameter.” Is the mole large? Is it as large as a pencil eraser? Any changes like these or any mole that itches, bleeds, or changes in any other way should be checked by your dermatologist. Any sore that doesn’t heal needs to be checked. These could be indications of skin cancer. Over-the-counter (OTC) versus physician strength skin care products. First and foremost you need to keep your skin clean and moisturized. Many dermatologic conditions have their root in dry skin. Keep yours moisturized. Whether you use OTC products or buy them from your dermatologist just make sure you are using a good cleanser and moisturizer. There is a difference in the products you can only get from a physician versus OTC. In many cases the FDA restricts the strength of the active ingredient in OTC products whereas your dermatologist can provide products with higher potency. Some skin care companies do not provide an OTC version of their product meaning you can only get them from a physician. Lastly, the reputation of these companies and their products is important and if used improperly you could have a less than desirable effect. For your safety and optimal results your dermatologist can customize a skin care program for you. In general the routine I recommend is a cleanser in the morning followed by an eye cream, anti-aging product, and moisturizer with sunscreen (or makeup with sunscreen). In the evening a cleanser followed by a retinoid product and moisturizer. There are many variations of this routine and many different products to use, which brings me to my final point on OTC versus physician strength products. Cost. The price of some of these OTC products at major department stores is shocking. For that kind of money go to your dermatologist and get a customized medical program using physician strength products you can’t get through OTC and will for certain – work.

20 Resources for Women by Women

There is a trend going on with cosmetic procedures that concerns me and it has to do with my last pearl for this article. When it comes to cosmetic procedures for your skin you should only go to a skin care professional. It seems that just about every kind of physician is getting on the lucrative cosmetic skin train. Managed care, low payouts by health insurers, high expenses, and the like, have pushed many doctors to look at other options for increasing the bottom line and in some cases just being able to stay in business. That said, you should be an educated consumer if you are considering cosmetic procedures for your skin. The law in South Carolina does not prevent any licensed physician from doing cosmetic skin procedures. That’s right; any physician regardless of specialty can legally provide cosmetic skin procedures to the public. Doesn’t seem right, but that’s the way it is. It is not your problem that health care woes in the United States are motivating physicians with nominal skin training to offer cosmetic procedures. It is your problem that current laws and regulations do not prohibit marginally skin trained physicians and even non-physicians to be legally able to provide cosmetic skin procedures to you. The old days of “any physician knows everything about any part of your body have been gone for, well, decades!” Whether it’s Botox, a filler, chemical peels, and especially lasers; you need to make sure you know the training and qualifications of the people who will administer these procedures. Your skin is the largest organ of your body. Your dermatologist completed a three-year residency to learn, diagnose, and treat the skin. There are no other physician specialties dedicated and trained especially for your skin. I highly recommend you have your cosmetic skin procedures performed by a board certified dermatologist or a plastic surgeon specializing in facial procedures. If you’re checking into some of these procedures ask if there is a board certified dermatologist on the staff. You may be surprised to find out how many of these places don’t have a dermatologist and even more surprised to find out what type of doctor actually is offering the procedures – if it’s even a doctor at all. The bottom line is - would you go to your dermatologist for a Pap smear, or the flu? No, of course not, so why would you trust your skin to anyone other than a dermatologist?! Be wary and ask questions.

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951-1717 5315 Sunset Boulevard • Lexington

21

Health & Wellness

You and Your Body Anthony Buzzetti

“I

t’s a world gone crazy keeps woman in chains.” —Tears For Fears

Please allow me to offer a collective confession on behalf of my gender. Forgive us, for we have made you fearful and insecure. We have done you a disservice and for that we should be both ashamed and apologetic. The sorry truth is that the health community (comprised mostly of men) has only recently recognized that women’s bodies are somewhat different than men’s bodies. Medical research had all but ignored the female form until as recently as the seventies, and the fitness community offered you only leg warmers and Richard Simmons. But thankfully, the old days are behind us, and the good news is that things are beginning to change! Today it seems that the health and fitness communities (now comprised more equitably) have adopted a sincere appreciation for the unique physiological needs of females. Women are now being researched and studied in ways that seem to suggest respect. Nautilus, the inventor of the strength machine, has even involved women in the research and design of their latest line of strength machines. As

“Medical research had all but ignored the female form until as recently as the seventies, and the fitness community offered you only leg warmers and Richard Simmons.” more is discovered about female-specific health/fitness issues, you’ll have the necessary knowledge to be able to better care for yourself. Perhaps we should sift through some of the stuff that has been circulating through the fitness community and assess what’s really true. We’ve been told that women should refrain from lifting weights to avoid becoming muscle bound. This absolute falsehood was most probably promoted by the same clown who told us not to drink during exercise. Women should attempt to perform weight bearing exercises at least twice weekly to help increase bone density. Science has shown us that muscle tissue reacts differently in an estrogen environment, so do not fear that you’ll adopt an “Arnold-like” appearance. For reasons related to better posture, better range of motion, and increased self-esteem, women should strive to incorporate weights into their weekly workouts. Allow me to offer just a couple of simple suggestions that might be beneficial to you in achieving your health & fitness goals. First, regard the claims of every infomercial you’ve ever heard as utterly untrue. You simply cannot find fitness in a matter of minutes; instead you should attempt to allocate about five hours per week to 22 Resources for Women by Women

exercise. Second, find a partner who will support you in your efforts to exercise. Since both time and effort must be expended, you really need to have someone who can encourage, motivate, and inspire you. Studies have shown that you increase the likelihood of achieving your goal by approximately 87% if you have an exercise partner. Third, do away with the idea that foods should be eaten at just three specific times during the day. The ideal nutritional strategy will have you eating small meals, interspersed with snacks, all throughout the day. Let’s look forward to a future that celebrates the strength and athletic accomplishments of women. My hope is that my daughters will be seen as equals in all of their fitness and athletic endeavors, but this will require men having to overcome their insecurities. Please always remember that you possess the most miraculous machine known to man. Your body can create and sustain another life—and no athletic achievement in all of sports (sorry Mr. Woods) will ever equal that. Strive to always treat your body, and yourself, with the compassion and respect that you deserve. Be good to yourself because no one else has the power to make you happy.

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23

Weddings

Choosing the Right Photographer Kim Totten of Totten Photography (www.krtottenphotography.com)

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ou never realize how many photographers are around until you need one, or become one. If there are so many, how do you choose the right one for your special day? Why invest so much money in something that you will not see until it may be too late? Brides spend a tremendous amount of time, money and effort in selecting the perfect dress, the perfect cake, and the perfect location. By the time it comes to selecting a photographer, unfortunately price usually wins out to quality. Here are a few tips to help you select the perfect photographer for your wedding day: Get Personal Referrals Many photographers are booked based upon word of mouth and clients showing off their photographs. Asking friends and relatives is an excellent source of information. The power of references or testimonials speaks volumes.

Photograph by Totten Photography

Decide on a Style Decide what style of photography you like before you decide on a photographer. Do you like photojournalistic or traditional, or a blend of both? Look in magazines or on the web to get ideas of what style best suits you. Many photographers will provide you with a checklist of desired photographs that will help you decide on exactly what photographs you absolutely want and must have.

View the photographers web site or samples Many photographers post their proofs online now. Viewing the photographers work will give you a sense of his/her style and a good indication of his/her capabilities. If you find a photographer that interests you and you know nothing about them, give them a call and ask them for the names of recent brides so that you may contact them and get a personal referral. Call the former client and see how they enjoyed working with him/her and if they were satisfied, and if they would use them again. Schedule a Meeting Schedule a meeting with your prospective photographer. This is also another opportunity to view the photographers work and ask any questions that you may have. The photographer will also have questions for you, such as “Will you see your fiancé before the cer24 Resources for Women by Women

emony?” This is a long standing tradition and often viewed as bad luck, and the decision should be completely left up to the couple,

“What you imagine and what you expect should be what you get.” however, there are many advantages of taking the bridge/groom images before the ceremony (fresh makeup, hair, fresh flowers). You will also have some time to enjoy the excitement and anticipation with each other, the groom can tell you how beautiful you are and the photographer can catch those special moments. If you decide to break tradition, your photographer can make this moment special for the two of you. Make sure you are comfortable with the Photographer The photographer will spend almost all day with you, seeing very intimate moments that you will share with your family and friends. It is important that you feel comfortable with this person and that your personalities click. Keep your budget in mind It is wise to keep your budget in mind, but it should not be an excuse for not doing your research to find a quality and professional photographer. Many photographers do offer affordable packages for smaller, more intimate weddings or second weddings. Most professional wedding photographers offer a variety of packages which can be extremely overwhelming, so having a sense of what you want will help you with those difficult choices. Sign a contract Signing a contract protects both you and the photographer. Usually upon signing a contract, you will be asked for a deposit. By doing both you have ensured that the photographer has committed to you to be available on your wedding date. Also, the photographer has faith in you that you are committed to him/her and that you like their style of photography. Make sure you understand the fees and payment term, and ask any questions before signing. Make sure you know what you have paid for or not paid for. Communication Once you have made the decision and you have booked your photographer, communicate with them what you like. Visual communication is a great tool. What you imagine and what you expect should be what you get. Making sure they understand will insure that you get the best photographs possible. Be sure that they share your vision and dream. Long after your wedding day is over, your wedding photographs will be a reminder of your excitement, dreams, and anticipations. Be able to cherish them for years to come by choosing a quality professional photographer.

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25

Spotlight on West Columbia

Chappelle Broome

Columbia Metropolitan Airport, Human Resources Manager

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happelle Broome began her career at the Columbia Metropolitan Airport ten years ago as a part-time weekend customer service representative in the Marketing Department at the Information desk, where she progressively moved up the ranks to earn her title today of Human Resources Manager. Under this designation, she manages all aspects of the employment process, employee counseling and evaluation, policy review and interpretation, and discipline. “I work hard to keep the “human” aspect in human resources,” says Chappelle. “So much of today’s world is automated and the personal touch has been removed…I enjoy working where I do know the employees by name and we also know about their families and celebrate along with them these achievements of new babies, graduations, birthdays etc. and are aware and sympathetic with their losses.” Mrs. Broome graduated from the University of South Carolina with a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism (as she puts it, “it was so long ago that when I decided to start graduate school two years ago, my son who was attending the University at the time and was getting my transcripts for me told the registrar that my transcripts were likely with Moses’ original stone chiseled version of the 10 commandments.”) and received her Professional in Human Resource (PHR) certification in 2004. Two years ago, she made the decision to pursue two Masters Degrees – one in Human Resource Management and another in Human Resource Development. She feels like HR was the right choice for her because she truly enjoys and respects people – communication and interaction with employees is fun for her. “HR is the right career choice for me because it feeds to my intellectual side (the employment law parts of it) but also to a

deep seated quirkiness that works well in this profession. In HR, you have to be able to change focus at a moment’s notice. You can be working on compensation one minute, an employee issues the next, a company event the next and training the next. That type of change excites me…No two jobs or employees are the same. HR is one profession that on a daily basis you can interact with each and every department from marketing to police to fire to maintenance all in an eight-hour day. Giving a person opportunity for growth for advancement is so rewarding far beyond monetary gains.” Chappelle attributes her success, in part, to her extreme flexibility, empathy, approachability, commitment to fairness and terrific listening skills, all of which are very important when dealing with others at her level. Frank Manning, Airport General Counsel commented

“Chappelle attributes her success, in part, to her extreme flexibility, empathy, approachability, commitment to fairness and terrific listening skills, all of which are very important when dealing with others at her level.” that from a professional standpoint, Chappelle undertook to take over many of the HR tasks previously performed by a member of the executive staff who retired. Chappelle identified the areas that she needed to seek training and undertook to get that training, all the while pursuing a college degree. She has filled a great void and has done it with great care and professionalism. On a personal note, Chappelle is a great friend to everyone at the Airport of all levels. She can relate to the Executive Director and the entry level maintenance person. Chappelle knows everyone by name and knows of their family members as well. That’s what makes her a great asset to the Airport. Perhaps one of the most elemental aspects of her success is told by Lynne Douglas, Director of Marketing & Community Relations who says, “I am so proud to say that I was blessed with the opportunity to be the one to interview and hire Chappelle several years ago to come onboard at the airport as a member of my staff as a Customer Service Representative… She quickly became one of those valued employees that never utters the phrase “that’s not my job.” Even though I regretted having to lose her from my staff several years ago, I was so happy for the opportunities that came her way allowing her to cultivate and use her incredible skills with people to grow among the Airport ranks. Chappelle is an incredible woman who truly always has a smile on her face even though she may be working with a particular department in handling a tough personnel issue at the time. She truly personifies what a Human Resourc-

26 Resources for Women by Women

Spotlight on West Columbia es Manager should be…one that is fair to all, listens to all sides of an issue, and proceeds with great compassion and openness to all involved. She is a wonderful ambassador for the airport and truly is one of a kind. I wish that all companies could have a Chappelle among their ranks…I am proud to know her and to work with her. She personifies the word “professionalism.” I don’t know when she rests because it seems she is always available when needed. She cares deeply about the airport and the people that work here. And, her faith in God is evident. She has this incredible ability to juggle several projects/issues at once and somehow keeps it all under control. I am so thankful that she is a part of the CMA team!”

“In addition to being a tremendous asset in our department, she is sought out by the Executive Director for advice and is well respected by employees, management, and the governing body. Needless to say, we are well blessed to have Chappelle with us, and appreciate her abilities, dedication, and counsel.” Gregg Hornsby, Director of Finance & Administration (and Chappelle’s Boss) says of Chappelle. We are proud to feature Chappelle Broome in this edition of Lexington Woman, whom employers call “an outstanding professional.” Thank you Chappelle for being a shining example to other women.

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Photograph by Cynthia Pace Photography

27

Spotlight on West Columbia Ladies, Here Are Two Men You Can Trust… Ladies, lets face it—most of us aren’t sure how to pick out a new tire. Therefore, picking out a tire dealership we can trust is imperative. We need to feel comfortable and know we are respected as a consumer. We need a place we can send our sisters, mothers or college aged daughters and be confident that they will be treated fairly and with dignity. Discount Tire of West Columbia is that safe haven when you experience the inconvenience of tire problems. Discount Tire of West Columbia is a family owned business that has been serving Lexington County for more than thirty-seven years. Owner Mike Roof was born and raised in Lexington County. He graduated from Airport High School, and holds degrees from Winthrop University, and the University of South Carolina. Bimbo (Gene) Jones, the store manager, is also a man of faith and integrity. He patiently takes each customer through this tangled, obscure world of what tires are best for your vehicle and your circumstances. In fact, their staff has 148 years of combined service in the tire business. That’s a lot of experience! Discount Tire of West Columbia is also a champion for the community. For more than thirty years, they have been supporting the local schools, churches, individuals, and politicians by cooking barbeque, chicken, ribs—whatever can be cooked on a pit, for fundraising efforts. On more than several occasions, individuals needing expensive medical procedures have benefited from Mike’s desire to support the community. Airport and Brookland Cayce High Schools’ Athletic Booster clubs regularly use Discount Tire’s BBQ pit and expertise to put on successful fundraisers. Discount Tire of West Columbia not only offers experience, but also offers the finest products on the market, Michelin and BF Goodrich tires. Other services they offer are batteries, front end alignments, brakes, oil changes, and radiator flushes. Have no fear ladies! We really don’t need to know how and why our vehicles need these services—we just need to know people we can trust to get the job done right at a fair price. Those two gentlemen are Mike Roof and Bimbo Jones of Discount Tire of West Columbia. So the next time life throws you a curve ball with a flat tire or dead battery, confidently take your vehicle directly to Discount Tire of West Columbia. You will be glad you did!

Discount Tire of West Columbia

Discount Tire of West Columbia | (803) 794-9375 | 3219 Platt Springs Road | West Columbia, SC 29170

“Happiness is an attitude. We either make ourselves miserable, or happy and strong. The amount of work is the same.” — Francesca Reigler

HUDSON’S S MOKE H OUSE

356-1070

www.hudsonssmokehouse.com 4952 Sunset Boulevard • Lexington

SmokeHouse Express & Catering Headquarters 739 Knox Abbot Drive • Cayce

28 Resources for Women by Women

AWARD WINNING BBQ

RIBS, CHICKEN & CATFISH

Spotlight on West Columbia

The Etiquette of Sympathy

What to do When Someone You Know Suffers a Loss Lydia Ramsey

O

n a beautiful spring day last April I was driving home to Savannah from Charlotte after welcoming my first grandchild into the world. Little Samuel Carroll Niles was whole and healthy, and life was good – almost. My husband had suffered a serious fall in October and was unable to accompany me. He seemed to be recovering, but I was still concerned about him. I was nearly home when my cell phone rang. The call was from a friend who had stopped by to visit Hank and became alarmed when

“Within a three-week period, I became a grandmother and a widow.” there was no response. I drove into my driveway with the lights of the EMS truck flashing in my rear view mirror. On May 11th, I lost my warm, wonderful, gentle husband. Within a three-week period, I became a grandmother and a widow. As I attempted to get back to life “as normal,” I found that grief had its own timetable. When I was able to write again, I decided that I needed to address this issue that confronts everyone at some point, personally and professionally. It is often difficult to know what to say or do when a death occurs. I want to share what I have learned that may help when someone you know—a client, a colleague, a coworker or a friend—loses a loved one.

Send flowers unless the family specifies otherwise. Send them to the family, the funeral home, the church or the gravesite. Flowers add warmth and are visual reminders of the support of friends. Flowers and personal gifts continued to arrive weeks later to confirm that neither my pain nor I had been forgotten. Take food and other items for daily living to the house. The last thing the grieving family can think about is grocery shopping and meal preparation. A thoughtful neighbor called me and said, “I am going to the grocery store. What do you need?” My response was a baffled, “I have no idea.” This kind, generous person filled her car with everything from fresh fruit and vegetables to paper towels and toilet tissue. She even included pet food for the four-legged members of the family. Make a contribution to the charities indicated by the family. Honor the wishes of the deceased. Give to the causes they chose unless the obituary states that contributions should be made to the donor’s favorite charity. If you missed the funeral notice and don’t have that information, call the funeral home. They will have a record. Be specific when you offer to help. Most people say, “If there is anything you need, call.” While their intentions were genuine, I didn’t always know what I could ask certain people to do. When our assistant rector uttered those words, my face must have flashed back

It is important to do something. Many of us are so uncomfortable with death that we don’t do anything at all—afraid of saying or doing the wrong thing. Attend the funeral or the memorial service if you can. Your presence offers inestimable support. Even if you can’t speak directly to the family members, you can sign the book that they will look at over and over again and they will know you cared enough to be there. Write a note as soon as you can. Personal notes of condolence are a source of great comfort—more than you can imagine. I was moved by the ways people expressed their sympathy. There were those who simply spoke of their sincere sorrow for my loss. There were those who described what Hank had meant to them personally. Others wrote about the character and personality of the special person I had lost. I was grateful for each and every one. Commercial sympathy cards are equally cherished. It was clear to me that the commercial cards I received had been carefully chosen. Each one came with an additional sentence or two written by the sender. Be sure you take the time to add a short personal note. 29

Spotlight on West Columbia a message that said, “Like what?” because he immediately followed with a verbal list of all things I could call on him or other church members to do. One neighbor offered to walk the dog. Another proclaimed to be handy with household repairs if anything broke down or stopped working. Someone else volunteered to pick up family members from the airport. Once people were clear on what they could do, I knew where to turn without hesitation for what I needed. Make a note of the date of the death. Honor the anniversary with a note or a phone call that says you haven’t forgotten. It is not necessary to do or say something grand. Any gesture you make is comforting. A simple word, a hug, a phone call, a card or an offer to run an errand are just a few ways to express your sympathy.

Keep in mind that great authors, poets and thinkers have written for centuries about grief and loss, searching for just the right words to console themselves or someone else. When all is said and done, there are no words. Sometimes the best you can offer are the words, “I’m sorry.” I hope that what I have learned first hand will help you to reach out with confidence and ease the next time someone close to you suffers a loss. Lydia Ramsey is a business etiquette expert, professional speaker, corporate trainer and author of Manners That Sell – Adding The Polish That Builds Profits. She has been quoted or featured in The New York Times, Investors’ Business Daily, Entrepreneur, Inc., Real Simple and Woman’s Day. For more information about her programs, products and services, email her at [email protected] or visit her web site www.mannersthatsell.com.

Is your child... Do you feel... • Not focused?

• Frustrated?

• Over active?

• Your child needs some real help.

• Lacking friends?

Get That Help Now. Call Brain Bright Today! (803) 360-9698 • www.BrainBright.com

3955 Southeastern Way (2B) • West Columbia, SC 29169 • Help for ADHD, L.D., O.D.D. and Asperger's

Just a bridge away from downtown Columbia, SC... You can set your own pace when you visit the West Metro communities across the Congaree River. From the scenic Riverwalk Park to quaint antique shops, fine and casual dining to the Historic Cayce Museum, the Midlands of South Carolina offers a variety of activities and amenities for the casual visitor or the serious tourist. Just moments away from downtown Columbia, you can enjoy an evening at the theater, a tubing trip down the river, or a day at Riverbanks Zoo and Gardens. Maybe a picnic overlooking the river is more your pace. You have it all right here.

For more information on sites and accomodations, contact the West Metro Visitors Center at 1-866-720-5400 or www.visitwestmetro.sc

Cayce 30 Resources for Women by Women

|

Springdale

|

West Columbia

Spotlight on West Columbia

Thompson’s Funeral Home

T

hompson’s is a full-service funeral home that is family owned and operated that has served families of this area for more than 80 years. Certainly, no ones likes to think about the inevitable; however, when you do, Thompson’s is committed to steadfast support and guidance to help make the process as painless as possible. From the early days in 1928 when J.R. “Buddy” Thompson started the business, Thompson Funeral Home has provided unparalleled personal service to families of Cayce, West Columbia, and Columbia. In 1935, “Buddy” Thompson completed the first building in this area that was built strictly for the use as a funeral home. That building still is operational today at 200 State Street in West Columbia. In 1999, Thompson Funeral Home opened its second location at 4720 Augusta Road (Hwy #1) in Lexington. to better serve the families of Lexington County.

John D. Thompson, the son of Bleeka and “Buddy” Thompson, began working at the funeral home part-time in 1963, eventually be-

“Thompson’s is committed to steadfast support and guidance to help make the process as painless as possible.” coming manager in 1972 and sole owner in 1997. His son, J. Blake Thompson, joined the family business after completion of his B.S. Degree at the Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science. The Thompson family expresses its deep appreciation to the people in the area and pledges to continue providing the unmatched compassionate care and responsible guidance that only a longtime friend and neighbor could offer.

Thompson FU N ERAL

HOME

4720 Augusta Road | Lexington, SC 29073 | Phone: (803) 996-1023 200 State Street | West Columbia, SC 29169 | Phone: (803)791-0650

www.thompsonsfuneral.com 31

Kid’s Stuff

Decorating a Room with Your Child Elaine Samples

D

ecorating a room with your child’s favorite theme or color is a wonderful way to help them have memories they will never forget. Choose a boy’s or girl’s theme and allow your child to brainstorm to find ideas that compliment the theme. For instance, if you have a daughter who loves playing house and having tea parties, you can build around this concept. Have one corner of her room dedicated to tea parties—complete with a small table and chairs and all of the necessities for the perfect little party. You could decorate the wall with a large drawing or painting of the Tea Pot from Beauty and the Beast, use a solid color comforter and little tea pot throw pillows. For a little boy who loves trains, decorate his headboard like a little red caboose and have a permanent train track that travels around the bed. Take a photo of him dressed like a conductor, and use it as the main drawing behind his bed or as a center point somewhere in the room. If you have an imaginative little guy or gal who loves to paint or draw, maybe you leave one wall that has washable paint to encourage their creative juices to flow. (Of course, you run the risk that the creativity is not isolated to this one wall and the paint is spread to the formal sitting room…)

Sunshine is always a good theme for a little girl’s room. Have someone paint a mural of a big sun shining through some fluffy clouds and use yellow bedding and quilts. Have pretty flowers painted on the wall or pretty flower pots with bright daisy-like flowers throughout the room. You could also use soft green rugs like grass. Often, little boys enjoy stars and all things astrological. You may think of painting the ceiling blue and having your child place a glow arrangement of the moon and stars, so that he can stare and dream as he falls asleep at night. Place a telescope by the window and have a model of the solar system—both educational and fun. Your child’s room should be a fun place—his or her own special little haven where he can go to think, create and just BE. It is important to give her a role in the creation of this little safety dwelling, so that she can feel as though she has had a part in the final product. He will have memories that will last a lifetime.

“Go to your room!” has a whole new meaning. You can search all you want but you will not find a better selection of children’s furniture, bedding, art, rugs, lamps and décor anywhere in South Carolina. We offer custom design services, easy lay-a-way, 6 months same as cash financing and a large selection of INSTOCK items.

116 Decker Park Road - Columbia, SC • www.BFPK.com • 803-788-5880 • 32 Resources for Women by Women

toll free 800-844-5880

Kid’s Stuff

Sarah Dippity Sarah Straney

A

s South Carolina’s only professional female magician, Sarah Straney, aka Sarah Dippity, gives a unique twist to a classic form of entertainment. “My shows emphasize the beauty of magic.” In her performances for both adults and children, Sarah loves to work with flowers and colorful scarves, in addition to the standard cards and coins. The style, humor, and costumes present unique challenges to a female performer. “You certainly can’t hide things ‘up your sleeve’ when you’re wearing a sequin dress with no sleeves.” Sarah has been featured on SCETV with the John Tudor Magic Theater, and has regularly performed on local venues such as EdVen-

“There’s a kind of sweet affection I receive from the children that the male magicians tell me they don’t receive.” ture. She has been a student of acting and magic for over 7 years, training locally with John Tudor, and with some of the top performers in cities such as New York and Atlanta. In her children’s shows, Sarah creates a warmth and sweetness that clearly comes from her own experience as a mother. “There’s a kind of sweet affection I receive from the children that the male magicians tell me they don’t receive. I think both children and moms feel safe and comfortable with a female performer.” Of course, being

sweet doesn’t keep one from being funny. Sarah thinks of herself more as a comedian for kids. “I have never seen these kids laugh so hard!” said Karen D. a mother from a recent birthday party audience.

Sarah Dippity Princess Parties Magic, Facepainting & More!

Although she performs regularly for both adults and children, boys and girls, she recently created a special show specifically for girls. “All little girls want to be a princess, so I come to their parties as their very own magi- (803) 479-6433 | www.sarahdippity.com cal Fairy Godmother, and make that dream come true. I love it!” Sarah says. Her work is certainly appreciated by her audience. According to Penny Cothran, former events director at EdVenture Children’s Museum, Sarah is “giving hope to a whole new generation of female performers. (She is) a true role model and fantastic performer!”

Photographs by Clark Berry Photography

33

Kid’s Stuff

Karen Petta: In Her Own Words The Studio

I

moved to Lexington from Milwaukee Wisconsin in the summer of 2005. My background is in psychology. I co-owned a mental health clinic for a period of 10 years and consulted for that same clinic for four years after selling my portion of the business. After leaving full time mental health I began to persue my love for art and began painting murals in homes as well as selling art at local art shows. I had visions of opening a studio that would offer more than ceramic painting thus giving both children and adults the opportunity to experience many different art mediums. I was ready to sign a lease for a location in the Milwaukee area when an opportunity presented itself to my husband John, and we ultimately moved to South Carolina. History of The Studio My dream did not fade after our move to South Carolina, and in May of 2005 I opened The Studio in Lexington’s Old Mill. In a years time I have had the opportunity to meet some great local artists with whom have developed art classes for preschoolers to adult. Artist June Tucarella teaches ongoing watercolor classes, and Monica Wyrick teaches a variety of mediums to children and adults. Trina Gibson brings her expertise in stamping and scraping and Kerri Labelle teaches classes in beading. Glass Fusion is one of our most popular classes and is offered 1 - 2 times per month. We have also offered classes in unique things such as hand building with clay, furniture painting, window design, mosaics, glass painting, soaps and salts and stepping stones. As a psychotherapist, I worked a great deal with teenagers. I think it is so important for teens to have a place to go — somewhere where they feel accepted and can feel proud of something they have accomplished. We offer “Teen Nights” once a month. During these nights we offer one featured project in addition to ceramics and provide the kids with some munchies and beverages. Lots of fun! We offer parties for both children and adults. Kids have enjoyed themed parties (princess, sports, pirates...) and adults have celebrated baby showers, birthdays, bridal showers and just fun girls nights out working with featured projects such as ceramics, beading glass fusion just to name a few. In addtion to parties, groups are able to schedule private classes and group outings.

34 Resources for Women by Women

We also feature wine tastings and art sales during which we being in a variety of artists to display and sell their original works. Our gift shop is filled with original unique pieces of art that are available for purchase. Where We Are Going Something that I have done recently is actually taken the projects to a group. A local preschool painted mugs as gifts and a local senior center created beautiful glass fused pendants. Working with the seniors at the senior center gave made me a little taste and reminder of my previous profession and has made me think “How could I

“I had visions of opening a studio that would offer more than ceramic painting thus giving both children and adults the opportunity to experience many different art mediums..” use art to reach others on a therapeutic level”. I am currently in the process of looking for avenues to take art projects into hospitals, senior centers, and other areas in which it would provide a positive therapeutic outlet. Upcoming Events The Studio is offering mixed medium summer camps for children in pre-school through high school. Call for dates and to reserve a space for your child! We are offering a Mother’s Day workshop (make a gift for mom) on Saturday May 3rd and a Father’s Day workshop on June 7th and June 10th (hand made gifts for dad). Starting in August, the party comes to you! The Studio will be specializing in bringing parties, or projects to your home, school or church. Studio And Gift Shop Hours The Studio and studio gift shop is open Monday through Saturday from 10:00am - 6:00pm. Ceramic painting can be done during any open times. A wide variety of classes are offered throughout the month. Featured projects are offered as well during our Saturday studio hours. Private parties, classes and group outings scheduled by appointment. Location And Phone Number 607 S Lake Dr., Lexington, SC 29072; (803)356-3623

Kid’s Stuff

Working Studio and Gift Shop    3OUTH,AKE$RIVE,EXINGTON

WWWSTUDIOOLDMILLCOM -ONDAYTHROUGH3ATURDAYAM PM 0RIVATEPARTIES CLASSES ANDGROUPOUTINGSSCHEDULEDBYAPPOINTMENT

!RT#LASSESs#ERAMICSs"EADINGs3TEPPING3TONESs'LASS&USIONs#LAY

Photograph by Clark Berry Photography

35

Old Mill Rug Gallery "fashion wear for your floors"

A Day at

the Old Mill

The Old Mill

L

adies let me tell you a great way to spend some leisure time, with girlfriends or your family. There are always many choices at the Old Mill.

Tuesday through Saturday 10am—6pm 711 East Main Street Suite I Lexington, SC 29072

785-6565

www.oldmillruggallery.com

Rainy Day Pal Books Located in the Old Mill 711 E. Main Street, Suite T Lexington, SC 29072 email: [email protected] Fax (803) 951-2109

Open: Monday - Saturday 9:00am - 9:00pm

(803) 951-2780

We Carry New and Used Books Hard Backs and Paper Backs

Buy • Sell • Trade

Start with premium coffee and fresh-baked bagels, scones or muffins at The Wired Bean, then browse through Rainy Day Pals for a good read. You may even happen upon a book signing by a local author. Treat yourself to a great new style at Lexington Hair Studio, those ladies do color so well you might decide to try a new shade altogether, or if life has gotten so busy and you haven’t spent enough you time, you may enjoy a relaxing massage, facial or manicure at Bella-Riley’s, a salon and spa. While you are feeling relaxed and tension free, try Sugar Britches for a great new bag or silver jewelry and many other accessories. For the home or office, stop by and see Sandra, at Old Mill Rug Gallery for fashion wear for your floors, and find custom furniture at Vintage Wood Brick & More, to compliment your new floor covers. Paintings, prints and photography at The Art Spot await you. Bring in your own prints for custom framing at Sandlapper Art and Frame. Or, stop by Clark Berry and buy gift certificates for your husband for a photo shoot of you especially for him. While you are there, schedule an appointment for the whole family in Clark’s beautiful historic studio for a photographic heirloom piece and memories that will last a lifetime. Sign up for a quilting class at Pieces and Patches, and invite other ladies from your church or

Old Mill Pizza Buffet World Famous Food, Service and Smiles! (803) 957-1996

Fax: (803) 957-1906• email: [email protected] 711 E. Main Street • In the Old Mill • Lexington, SC 29072

Visit us at www.crabshacks.com 36 Resources for Women by Women

711 E Main Street | Lexington, SC | (803) 785-7476 (Lexington Old Mill Building on US1)

All You Can Eat Pizza Buffet Lunch $5.25 | Dinner $5.49 Open 7 Days a Week Close 2:30 - 4:30pm Monday — Friday Carry Out Available

A Day at

the Old Mill

organization to join you there for a night away from TV and media just to enjoy an art that our grandmothers made a part of their everyday lives. If dancing is more to your liking, there are classes for all ages at The Center for Dance Education. After an exciting day filled with relaxation and therapy (shopping), have lunch or dinner at the Mill. Choose from fresh sandwiches and desserts at The Wired Bean, seafood and pasta at The Crab Shack, or pizza and wings at Old Mill Pizza Buffet.

803.996.5982 W W W C L A R K B E R R Y C O M 0HOTOGRAPHYBY#LARK"ECKI"ERRY ,OCATEDIN,EXINGTONS(ISTORIC/LD-ILL

If you have any trouble at all finding what you are looking for, stop by and see George Holden in the office across from The Crab Shack.

“...Come see for yourself what’s new at the Old Mill.”

• Gourmet Coffee (Frozen, Iced, Hot) • Fat-Free Smoothies • Delightful Desserts

George is an asset to the Old Mill and is always willing to lend a helpful hand to anyone who needs it. So, Ladies, the next time you are looking for a place to spend the day, come see for yourself what’s new at the Old Mill. You won’t be disappointed. Remember that retail and professional spaces are still available. Call or email Mr. Laban Chappell to talk about bringing your business to the Old Mill at (843) 573-8926 or [email protected].

Watershed Books

• Breakfast & Lunch Menus • Catering Available • Free Wi-Fi Internet Access

The Wired Bean 711 East Main Street Lexington, SC 29072 803.957.7029 www.wiredbean.net [email protected]

• Live Music on Friday & Saturday Nights

...get wired.

"We specialize in wedding and birthday Parties - call for details!" Gift Certificates Available

The Watershed is a ministry outreach to the Lexington community and its surrounding area. It is a place where people can purchase challenging books, hear great music and listen to engaging speakers.

711 East Main Street | Lexington, SC 29072 (In the Old Mill)

www.watershedbooks.net

Pieces & Patches Fabric and notions for quilting and other fabric art Sewing Classes

(803) 359-3442 Audrey Liddle

Located in the Old Mill 711-D East Main Street | Lexington Tuesday through Friday: 10am–6pm | Saturday: 10am–4pm

803-808-0420

711 E. Main St. Suite G | Lexington, SC 29072 | Inside the Old Mill

Art The

spot

• Local Original Art • Prints and Photographs

(all with South Carolina connections)

• Portraits of Individuals by Commission • Something for Everyone’s taste and budget

785-0066

Located in The Old Mill 711 E. Main Street • Lexington Tuesday through Thursday: 11am-6pm Friday: 11am-8:45pm

37

Pets

The Importance of Socializing Your Pet Tim Loonam, DVM

H

ave you ever met one of those family dogs that are just a joy to be around…? Or have you visited a home with an out-going cat that loves strangers and wants to be in the middle of all activity…? Well-socialized and behaved pets make a house a home but it does take planning and training. During the first few months of their lives, puppies and kittens are especially sensitive to the types of experience they have with the new people, animals, objects and situations in their world. Success during this critical learning period is very important. According to the Humane Society of the United States, nearly half of the 10 million dogs and cats that end up in shelters annually are euthanized, and the number one reason these animals are turned over to shelters is for unacceptable behavior. Peak socialization occurs between 3 and 12 weeks in puppies and 3 to 8 weeks in kittens. Since a large portion of this peak socializa-

tion occurs before these little ones leave their mother, its important to get your new pet from a breeder who provides socialization training. What if you don’t know the pet’s background? Don’t fret; you can still socialize them, just be prepared for it take longer and more effort. The key to successful socialization is making sure the puppy or kitten’s new experiences are made enjoyable by providing treats, praise, play and petting during the new experience. Pairing new experiences with something pleasant ensures the new experience

“Well-socialized and behaved pets make a house a home but it does take planning and training.” will be perceived as good in the future. Begin socialization training the moment you arrive home with your new pet, but don’t over do it. Young animals tire easily and have short attention spans; it’s better to have several short training sessions throughout the day instead of one marathon session. Food is a great motivator for puppies and kittens, and one of the best recommendations from leading behaviorists and trainers is to put away that cute food bowl and have your family hand-feed your new pet at each meal. This ensures your puppy or kitten sees you as ‘the great provider’, which strengthens the human-animal bond. ‘Food motivated’ pets are easily taught basic commands, and behaviorists and trainers also recommend applying the ‘nothing comes free’ philosophy when feeding young pets. Have them learn ‘sit’, ‘stay’ or other basic commands, which they must perform before and while they are being fed. Here are some other ideas to include in your socialization plan: • Arrange for your pet to be left alone several times during the day. Begin with a few minutes and work up to several hours, and make sure these alone times are unpredictable. Again, use treats to your advantage, but provide them inside of safe, behavior modification toys that give your pet something to do while you’re gone (Think Rubik’s Cube for pets!) Pets given these experiences are much more likely to be tolerant of being left alone and less likely to develop separation anxiety. (See behavior modification toy examples available through Kong at www.kong company.com) • After your new pet has been examined by your veterinarian and an immunization and de-worming plan begun, take your pet to public places (children’s soccer games are great!) and allow your puppy to meet people different from your family members—

38 Resources for Women by Women

Pets • While on a leash, let your pet experience people and objects moving rapidly such as joggers, kids playing, people on bikes,

different genders, ethnic groups, and ages. Everyone wants to pet your puppy and allow the strangers to offer small treats too. • Gradually acclimate your pet, especially kittens, to riding in your car. Practice car rides to your veterinarian’s office where you drop in for a treat also help minimize the stress related with visits to the vet.

“Food is a great motivator for puppies and kittens, and one of the best recommendations from leading behaviorists and trainers is to put away that cute food bowl and have your family hand-feed your new pet at each meal.” and cars. Also, give your pet experiences with noisy objects such as lawn mowers, vacuums, and blow dryers. • Begin introducing your pet to water, particularly hoses, to make bathing easier. Be careful not to force your puppy or kitten to experience things that frighten them. They won’t “just get over it;” they will often get more fearful and even become fearful of you. • Ask your veterinarian about ‘puppy’ and ‘kitten’ classes. Not only do they offer great socialization training, but they can also be a great stepping-stone to future obedience training. (Visit the Greater Columbia Obedience Club’s website at www.gcoc.net) Many times illness or injury can alter behavior, so if you have trouble socializing your new pet or they seem overly fearful of people or a particular experience get help from your veterinarian. Dr. Loonam is the owner of Grace Animal Hospital and Pet Lodge in Lexington. Visit their website at www.gracepets.com or call 808-PETS.

Photograph by Laura Tingen

"Complete, Compassionate Care From Your Other Family Doctor"

Grace Animal Hospital

and Pet Lodge

Small Animal Medicine and Surgery

Goats, Sheep and Llama Services

Small Animal Dentistry

Nutrition and Retail Products

Equine Services

Referral and Consultation Services

Pharmacy and Laboratory Behavior and Training Consulation

Pet Lodge

Tim Loonam, DVM Owner/Veterinarian

803.808.PETS (7387) | www.gracepets.com 147 Charter Oak Road | Lexington, SC 29072 39

Services

Wingards Nursery Wally Steinhauser

W

hether you have a new home that needs shade, an older home that needs updated landscaping or would like to place an accent plant in your existing landscape, Fall is here, and it is the best time to plant trees. Here in the Midlands, we are fortunate to have a great climate, which supports growth of a wide variety of trees. Whether it’s the typically southern and noble Magnolias and Crape Myrtles, majestic Oak trees, or durable and shady Maple trees, we have the opportunity to enjoy them all. Why is fall is a great time to plant? During the Fall months, like people, trees look forward to the generally cooler air and soil temperatures. Because the soil begins to cool, it is able to retain moisture better than in the summer, which means less water is required. Within our residential landscapes, trees can function as shade, accent or a combination of both, or they can be used to screen views and create privacy. If a fast-growing shade tree is required, maple trees, whether October Glory, Red Sunset, Summer Red, Autumn Flame or Autumn Sunset are very popular and durable. With proper water, sun exposure and fertilization, these trees can grow 18”-36” per year. As an accent plant, Japanese Maples, Purple Leaf Plums or Crape Myrtles are very desirable and unique. In subdivisions of new homes, for privacy, Arborvitaes, Leyland Cypresses or Wax Myrtles are requested because of their fast growth and bushy nature. It has become quite popular to plant trees to celebrate the birth of a child or commemorate the life of a loved one. At the birth of our children, we planted large caliper Autumn Flame maple trees. Fifteen years later, when we sold our house, these “members of the family” were quite large and it was difficult to leave them behind.

Other friends have also planted ornamental cherry trees, such as a Kwanzan, Okame or Yoshino, or Purple Leaf Plum trees in memory of their parents. Over time, it is enjoyable to watch the tree grow and recall the fond memories of the individual honored. Size is also an important factor in selecting a tree. Caliper is the unit of measure of the diameter of a tree trunk, measured 1 foot from the top of its rootball. For a larger shade tree, such as a maple or oak, we generally recommend 2”-3” caliper trees. These can be selected and easily transported and planted by homeowners. Whether you are impatient, or growing older, like me, to enjoy their beauty sooner, larger trees are a better investment than smaller, faster growing trees. A beautifully landscaped home is not only enjoyable, but the landscaping adds to its value. Other things to consider when planting a tree is whether it is deciduous, losing its leaves in the winter, as many do, or whether it flowers and whether it requires much sun, like the large maple trees, or is more shade-loving, like the delicate dogwood trees. With trees, there are many choices. Flowering or not, Evergreen or deciduous. Ornamental or shading. Sun or shade. Big or little. Fast or moderate growing. When you’ve gotten to this point, its time to visit a nursery for helpful, honest advice. Whether you’re new to the area and want to learn about trees or if you’re thinking about planting one, stop in and see our broad selection of trees and other products and services for your yard, and our Gift Shoppe. Sign-up for our monthly newsletter and attend our many seminars. There’s always something blooming at Wingard’s!

There’s always something blooming at Wingard’s.

1403 N. Lake Drive • Lexington, SC 29072 • 803-359-9091 • www.wingardsnursery.com 40 Resources for Women by Women

Services

Photograph by Cynthia Pace Photography

Palmetto STYLES

HAIR S AL ON

9 9 6 - 5 5 3 2 •117 E. Main S tr ee t • Lexingt on

Since 1971

Pool Tables • Spas • Billiards & More (803) 321-6600

1215 Wilson Road | Newberry 41

Services

Adult Home Care:

Independent Contractors vs. Home Care Companies Coker Day

I

t’s not unusual for family members to provide some or all of the non-medical home care needs of an elderly parent today. In fact, according to one recent survey, more than half of all caregivers are family members, usually daughters taking care of their mothers. However, if they don’t already have outside professional help, many family caregivers expect to secure some kind of full- or part-time assistance in the near future. Because, according to this same survey, as many as 80 percent of these family caregivers are juggling fulltime jobs, in addition to their care giving responsibilities. Once the decision is made that the elderly parent will remain at home, the issue for many of their children inevitably becomes, What kind of help is best suited to my parent’s needs: an individual private duty caregiver or a home care services company? But the issue becomes even more complex, when you consider you’re going to allow a complete stranger into your home—or that of your loved one—to perform some of the most personal services imaginable (bathing, dressing, etc.), often without direct supervision. The ultimate solution depends greatly on the nature and scope of care you or your parent needs. But it also depends on how much responsibility you are willing take on when it comes to the hiring (and potential firing) of an individual private caregiver. For one thing, that caregiver may be viewed by the Internal Revenue Service as your employee, which can have significant financial implications, as outlined below. For another, engaging the services of home care providers requires recruiting people who are not just qualified from a care giving standpoint, but people who can be trusted to be there every day for the contracted time, trusted not to steal anything and trusted to be compassionate—issues of particular importance for relatives who may not live in the same town with their parents. And finally, there’s the issue of compatibility: you have to find someone who will get along with you or your parent on a very intimate level. Individual Private Caregiver If you decide to engage the services of an independent or private duty caregiver, you may pay less on an hourly basis, won’t have to agree to a minimum number of visits or hours per day, or even sign a formal agreement. But consider these facts: • You’ll have to do a job search, just as any hiring manager would.

• You’ll probably be responsible for paying all payroll taxes (federal income tax withholding, social security, Medicare, state income tax withholding).

42 Resources for Women by Women

• Private caregivers typically do not carry personal liability insurance to protect against damage in the household. Likewise, they may not be bonded against theft of valuables. • Individuals often do not have workers compensation or disability insurance to cover on-the-job injuries. They typically do not have anyone to fill in if they are sick or otherwise can’t make it to work on short notice, leaving you in a bind. • You become the sole supervisor, responsible for the individual’s job performance and any problems that arise on the job. If the person doesn’t work out for any reason, you’ll have to terminate employment and begin the process of finding someone else to match the needs of your loved one—no easy task. • Because most caregivers are family members, those receiving care most often form emotional attachments with them (as opposed to outsiders), making it difficult to sever those ties should any thing go wrong, or the family simply wish to make a change. On the other hand, the newspapers periodically recount stories of relatives bilking the elderly out of thousands while ostensibly in their care. Home Care Services Company On the other hand, utilizing a home care services company may cost a little more initially, require a minimum number of hours or days and a contract, but it can alleviate much of the risk and burdens described above. For example: • An adult home care company knows what kind of people to recruit, the level of training they should have (sometimes providing the training) and how much to pay them. • A home care company has the resources to do thorough background checks before hiring people who will be allowed into the privacy of your home or that of your parents. • A home care company pays all taxes and insurance premiums, including those for liability and workers compensation, and fully bonds its employees. • A home care company is responsible for supervising its caregivers, monitoring their performance, keeping their training up-to-date and making sure clients and their families are satisfied with the quality of service provided. • With a full staff of caregivers available, you never have to worry if yours calls in sick; there will always be someone to fill in. And, if for any reason, your caregiver doesn’t work out, you may be able to ask for another one better suited to your needs. Reputable adult home care services companies recruit and train individuals who are compassionate about what they do and provide

Services the kind of care they would their own family members. More than a third of the family caregivers in the survey mentioned earlier felt that caring for a loved one was affecting their (other) job performance negatively. With so many time pressures on today’s families, it certainly makes sense to find a company that can provide the kind of care they provide, if possible, even better.

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DayBreak Adult Care Services is a professional home care service that provides personal care in the privacy and security of your own home. All of our caregivers are trained professionals who are accountable and dependable in every way. Each employee is drug screened, PPD tested, licensed, bonded, and carefully screened through police and human services background checks. This assures our clients and their loved ones that the highest level of professional care is being given each and every day.

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43

Professional

What to Consider when Contemplating Divorce Ashby Jones

A

few weeks ago my seven year old daughter Maggie hopped into the car after church and reported that her friend had “cried and cried” at school all day. When I asked Maggie why her friend was so sad, she told me that “Jane’s” parents were going to get a divorce, that Jane was going to move out of town, and that Jane would now only see her Daddy on weekends. Maggie’s eyes were wide with fear. Even though I am a divorce attorney and speak of this topic in detail on a regular basis, I had no idea what to say to my own child. Divorce is painful. I heard someone once say that having children is like wearing your heart on the outside of your body. We love our children. We women especially want to protect our children from harm. We have an in-

“How can you prepare yourself and your children for divorce?” nate desire to ensure they are warm, fed, held and loved. If our children are at risk, or threatened, or simply living in a toxic environment, we can fearlessly make difficult decisions. How can you prepare yourself and your children for divorce? How can you protect your children from harm? There are no easy answers to this question, but I will share what has worked for my own clients. First, you must be safe. If you are being physically abused by your husband, you must have a plan before you leave. Do you have friends or family who can take care of you? Do you need an emergency hearing to obtain a restraining order? Do you need the assistance of any helping organizations? Do not underestimate your husband. Divorce is a word that can provoke strong reactions. You must not participate in any violent behavior. If you are afraid, remove yourself and your children from the situation immediately. If you cannot leave and you are afraid for your safety, call the police. Second, you must separate the emotional aspect of the divorce from the business aspect of divorce. A divorce is the dissolution of a business partnership. You and your husband have amassed assets and debt. These two items must be divided equitably. Often, one party to a marriage has served as the “financial planner.” If you are not that person, you must investigate the correspondence, the bank statements, and the invoices that come to your home. If you are still in the marital home, and only in the contemplation stages of divorce, now is the time to educate yourself. Collect and make copies of everything, even if you do not know or understand what you are reading. Your lawyer will want to have a complete picture of your 44 Resources for Women by Women

marital assets and debts. It will be easier for you and more economical if you can do your “homework” prior to the first consultation. Also, if you are not the “financial planner” of the household, now is the time to learn. Once you are living separately from your husband, you will be responsible for paying bills and balancing your own checkbook. Third, if you are not the primary income earner, you must learn what your husband earns for a living. Make copies of your checkbook register if it reflects any paycheck deposits. If your husband is self employed, learn what you can about the fees he earns for his projects and the number of projects he has pending. If you have been married for a lengthy period of time, you may be entitled to alimony. You must be able to establish what your husband earns and be able to refute any attempt on his part to minimize his income. Please do not feel guilty as you investigate your husband’s

Professional income. The amount a husband and wife earn is relevant and important evidence in a divorce case. You have every right to learn this information. Fourth, you need a lawyer. There are many schemes, particularly on the internet, meant to sell you “do it yourself ” divorce packets. It is extremely difficult to get divorced in South Carolina without a lawyer. There are many rules to follow and procedural requirements. A well-seasoned lawyer can face obstacles during the pendency of a divorce. It is not a good idea to stumble through something that can have a widespread impact on you, your children and your lifestyle. Your lawyer should be someone you like, someone who will give you his or her undivided attention, and someone you can rely upon to keep your confidence (it is an ethical violation not to.) If you have left your initial consultation feeling overwhelmed, rushed, patronized, or confused, you have not found the right lawyer for you. A divorce is a long process. You and your lawyer will speak about

“Your lawyer should be someone you like, someone who will give you his or her undivided attention, and someone you can rely upon to keep your confidence (it is an ethical violation not to.)” highly personal matters. Your lawyer may have to report upsetting information, or describe an area of law that is not beneficial to you. It is much easier for you, the client, to face the hardship of divorce if you have the support of a lawyer you know and trust. Though my practice is not wholly devoted to family litigation, it is an area of great concentration. In my nine years of practicing law, building relationships with my clients has continually translated into successful outcomes. My primary goal in an initial consultation with a client is to establish an understanding of the client’s level of safety, current and past emotional strain, and desired specific outcomes of the divorce settlement. Through listening to my clients, I hope to develop a mutual trust which will be the foundation for our journey throughout the divorce process. As a representative of my clients, I take a businesslike approach. The business aspect of divorce calls for a lawyer with an understanding of the complicated rules related to each case and a fearless determination to gain the best possible outcome for the client. My sense of duty to my clients and my competitive nature drive me to work doggedly towards a successful end for every client. Though I cannot fully understand the grief, heartbreak, and fear which any woman seeking divorce must suffer, I will listen to you with an open heart, respect your privacy, and lead you through this difficult time.

Photograph by Cynthia Pace Photography

wood realty Call one of our professionals today! We can help you with any of your real estate needs!

359-2964

www.woodrealtysc.com 45

KINARD & JONES

Professional

LLC

Attorneys at Law

22 Years of Law Experience • Personal Injury • Workers’ Compensation • Criminal Law • Family Law • Real Estate • Automobile Accidents • Wrongful Death

www.kinardjones.com Ashby Jones and Murry Kinard

(803) 359-1003 (803) 359-1378 fax | 303 South Lake Drive | Lexington, SC 29072

46 Resources for Women by Women

Professional

What is Supplemental Health Insurance? Jared Kyzer

W

hat is supplemental insurance? How exactly does it work? What is its purpose?

These important questions I find common when discussing the insurance needs of clients and friends. It seems, despite the generous advertising given to the subject, that supplemental insurance is still not completely understood by many consumers.

were to occur? If so, begin your research of supplemental providers and programs. Don’t wait until the medical bills are due before deciding if you, your family or your employees are adequately covered.

I represent the number one provider of individual health insurance and guaranteed-renewable insurance*...

Supplemental insurance is, as the name implies, a supplement to any other insurance one may have. It is designed to help the policyholder retain money that may otherwise become debt for the insured. The primary debts that usually come to mind are doctor bills, hospital charges, etc. However, the total cost of serious illness or injury can take a heavy toll on our personal finances as well. Mortgage payments, car notes, electric bills and grocery costs come due steadily regardless of your personal income or physical condition. Supplemental policies can put money in your hands at a great time of need. Many supplemental policies pay a cash benefit to the policyholder. This gives freedom to the policyholder to prioritize their management of the current medical situation they face. Options are always nice to have in a time of physical and financial challenge. Many business owners are offering supplemental coverage to their employees. These employers realize that major medical insurance coverage simply isn’t always enough to keep employees from financial hardship. The need for more coverage, the low cost of supplemental insurance and the fact that many supplemental products can be offered at no cost to the business owner have made supplemental employee benefits common. Supplemental policies can pay in addition to any other coverage. These products are stand-alone policies that do not coordinate benefits with other providers. This means that regardless of the coverage provided by a major medical policy, a supplemental program can pay above and beyond. A person is not even required to have a major medical policy to be able to participate in a supplemental program, although, supplemental policies are not intended to be alternatives to good major medical plans. As the cost of medical treatment continues to climb and with the caps and gaps that are commonly found in even the best of major medical plans, it appears that supplemental programs will continue to grow in number and relevance. So, if you are an individual looking for personal coverage or an employer looking for ways to better your employee benefits package without adding cost to your company, supplemental insurance programs are certainly worth your consideration. Start by evaluating the coverage that you currently have. Are there areas inside of your coverage that could leave you exposed financially if major illness or injury

and can help strengthen your personal protection by offering policy cash benefits paid directly to you if you’re sick or injured.

Aflac is a world leader in guaranteed-renewable insurance with more than 35 million policies and riders in force worldwide (company statistics, December 31, 2005). All benefits are paid directly to you, unless you instruct us otherwise. *National Underwriter, “Life & Health Statistical Report,” August 21/28, 2006

™ American Family Life Assurance Company of Columbus (Aflac) Worldwide Headquarters • Columbus, GA 31999 For more information on the benefits, costs, and limitations of our insurance policies, please contact Jared Kyzer at 803-730-9035 or [email protected] 47

Professional

Women and Investing: Your Special Financial Considerations Mindy Kyzer

I

t’s unfortunate, but still true, that if you’re a woman, you face a variety of challenges in the workplace. And these issues translate into potentially serious problems for you as you save for retirement. To avoid these difficulties, you need to take action-now. Let’s consider some of the facts that underlie and illuminate the formidable tasks that women face: Lower earnings-Over the past few decades, women have made great strides in the quest to achieve earnings equally-but they’re not there

“Over the past few decades, women have made great strides in the quest to achieve earnings equally-but they’re not there yet.” yet. Women currently earn, on average, about 80 percent as much as men, according to the bureau of Labor Statistics. Less time on the job-Women are more likely than men to take time away from their careers to rear children or care for aging parents. Consequently, women typically work 32 years, compared with men’s 44, according to a study by the Center for Retirement Research at Boston College. Lower income in retirement-The total median annual income for

women 65 and older is 43% less than the median income for men of similar ages, according to the Older Women’s league, a research and advocacy group. Longer Life Spans-Women live an average of seven years longer than men, so they are more likely to outlive their financial assets. So there you have it: Lower earnings, extended time away from work, lower retirement income and longer life spans. Together, these factors point to a huge need for women- whether married or single- to do some serious investment planning. Fortunately, there are many steps you can take. Here are just a few: Pay Yourself First Every time you get paid, turn around and write out a check to whatever savings or investment vehicle you have chosen- before you pay any other bills. Better yet, take advantage of payroll deduction, bank authorization or systematic investment plans so that you money is automatically invested before you even receive it. Such a plan, however does not assure a profit and does not protect against loss in declining markets. Invest for Growth Many studies have shown that women tend to invest more conservatively than men. Yet, to achieve your retirement goals, you may need to put some of your investment dollars into “growth” vehicles, such as stocks or mutual funds. Historically, stocks have appreciated more than other types of investments, More importantly, other

WHEN IT COMES TO YOUR TO-DO LIST,

PUT YOUR FUTURE FIRST. To set up your financial review, call or visit today.

Mindy Kyzer

Financial Advisor 2001 Augusta Highway, Ste D Lexington, SC 29072 803.957.0470 48 Resources for Women by Women

www.edwardjones.com

Member SIPC

Professional types of investments, such as CDs or Treasury bills, may not even keep up with inflation, so you could end up losing purchasing power if your portfolio is not well diversified.

tain circumstances. If you are self-employed, consider opening a Simplified employee pension plan, (SEP) or other qualified retirement plan that may offer you a business tax deduction.

Take Full Advantage of Available Retirement Plans Save on a pre-tax basis through your employer’s 401(K) or by making IRA contributions. If you can’t deduct an IRA contribution, consider a Roth IRA. Contributions to a Roth IRA are not deductible, but a Roth does offer tax-free income at retirement under cer-

You’re In Control By following the steps described above, along with any others that make sense for your individual situation, you can take charge of your own financial future. It will take some time and effort- but the ultimate goal is well worth it.

Photograph by Cynthia Pace Photography

49

Professional

BankMeridian

Shawncee Sapp and Fran Moore McKinney

D

oes the idea of having one private banker dedicated to helping you meet all your financial goals appeal to you? If so, you’re not alone. Studies show many women prefer building a strong banking relationship with one financial expert who will take the time to understand their unique needs and help them prosper. That’s why BankMeridian, an innovative new bank in South Carolina, offers a higher level of personal service, providing the individual attention that is missing at many larger banks. Headquartered in Columbia, the bank has three locations in South Carolina, including locations on Hilton Head Island and in Spartanburg. The bank caters to small to mid-size business customers and individuals, offering traditional forms of banking, including CDs, personal and business checking accounts, and money market accounts, as well as a variety of loan products for personal and business use. BankMeridian’s unique style of banking sets it apart. With no teller lines and a relaxed office setting, clients enter the privacy of their

50 Resources for Women by Women

banker’s office to handle all their banking needs. Clients say they enjoy this first class experience, which offers more trust, flexibility, and one-on-one time with a banker who has the authority to approve their loan. This exceptional service is made possible by the bank’s high caliber team of experts. One of these bankers is Shawncee Sapp, Financial Center Manager, who handles personal loans as well as home equity lines of credit. Shawncee’s greatest strength as a banker is her ability to think creatively in any situation, a talent which she says helps her address her clients’ individual banking needs. Personable and engaging, Shawncee approaches any challenge with confidence and enthusiasm. A few years ago, these skills helped her face a challenge in her personal life. “I broke my upper cervical region,” says Shawncee. “This tested my personal strength, perseverance, spiritual commitment and my faith

Professional in myself. I learned to overcome my own fears without being afraid to live and try new things.” Shawncee says that experience made her a better personal banker, leaving her even more determined to achieve positive results for her clients. “My career with BankMeridian allows me to build lasting relationships with clients to help them achieve their individual dreams and goals,” says Shawncee. Fran Moore McKinney is another key member of the BankMeridian team. A longtime resident of South Carolina, Fran has more than 21 years total financial experience. For the past 15 years, she has specialized in residential mortgage lending, helping clients realize their dream homes. Fran takes an active role in the community through volunteer organizations, currently serving on several boards. She is President Elect of the Zonta Club of Hilton Head, a member of the Realtors and Mortgage Lenders Associations and a past board member of Citizens Opposed to Domestic Abuse (CODA).

Fran says the thing she loves most about her role as mortgage specialist with BankMeridian is getting to know her clients well and building lifelong relationships. “Buying a home should be one of the happiest times in a person’s life,” she says. “That’s why I always go the extra mile for my clients and am available for them whenever they need me – nights, weekends, and even on vacation. My clients know they can always reach me. In fact some of my closest friendships have come from relationships that started with a financial transaction.” When you’re ready for a financial expert to help with your most important decisions, from financing a new home to maximizing your business potential, BankMeridian will provide the individual attention and higher levels of personal service you deserve. Call Shawncee Sapp or Fran Moore McKinney today at 753-7700 to begin enjoying the art of relationship banking.

Paradigm Real Estate Group

Specializing in Lexington and Lake Murray Areas Office 803.808.2233 Cell 803.606.1088 Email [email protected]

5175 Sunset Boulevard, Suite 10 | Lexington, South Carolina

Amanda Holgate, BIC Sales & Marketing, Realtor® 51

Professional

Melissa Kyzer Real Estate Agent

M

elissa Kyzer always loved houses, she would visit open houses, the parade of homes, and anywhere houses were the main event. Seeing how they were decorated and how each builder chose to finish the house always intrigued her. She and her husband built three homes themselves and Melissa truly enjoyed the building process. When her parents moved to Lexington to be near her, she needed a career that would offer flexibility so she could tend to the needs of her parents. Real estate was the only choice for Melissa. Being a people person and having always loved dealing with people hands on, helps make Melissa good at what she does. It also helps build those relationships that are so important to a successful career in real estate. When she is showing a family a home, it is important to her that each customer finds exactly what they are looking for at the right price for that particular family. The most rewarding part of her career as Melissa puts it is when a client is thankful to have found her. “It makes me feel as though they couldn’t have managed without me when I go over to visit them after they have moved in and see them settled into their new home,

Call

so happy and proud. That is what gives me real, true joy.” Interestingly enough, after high school, Melissa was trained as a dental assistant. Of course, when real estate became her chosen profession, she attended a local real estate institute. Living in Lexington the last twenty nine years may be the best education Melissa has received to assist her in her career. She has watched the development of this area first hand. She says she is as comfortable in “jeans and a t-shirt walking a track of land with country folks as well as dresses to the nines looking at million dollar lake homes.” Melissa also believes that people can tell when you genuinely care about meeting their needs and is “honest to a fault.” She is friendly, reliable, and knowledgeable, always doing what she says she will do. I asked Melissa about her female role models and who had inspired her to make the most of her life. “If I could name a female role model who has inspired me, it would be my paternal grandmother, Marie Webber. She was an independent thinker from the

Melissa Kyzer for all your real estate needs! Specializing in the Lexington, Columbia, and West Columbia areas

Melissa Kyzer

803.446.5543

Reliable, Respected, and Highly Recommended 52 Resources for Women by Women

Professional 20’s and 30’s. She was one of the first car sales ladies in the United States. I have national sales newsletters where she is written about and praised for her salesmanship by the Doge car company. There

“When she is showing a family a home, it is important to her that each customer finds exactly what they are looking for at the right price for that particular family.” are also newspaper articles with photos of her. In the articles, she comments on how she sells cars and prepares cars for delivery and how she targets the wife because the wife is really making the decisions,” Melissa says. Talk about a lady who was a head of her times! I would have loved an opportunity to sit down with this woman—no wonder she was a top sales person. “As a teenager in the early 70’s, I traveled with her many times. She love to discuss everything from politics to the boys I was dating. She would encourage me to dare to be different and not to pay attention to someone who would discourage me from reaching for my dreams. She always loved what was young and in style. She also thought I looked adorable in miniskirts, where my mom thought two inches about the knee was short enough! She was an amazing woman who passed away in 1982 at the age of 89.. still driving and wearing bright red nail polish!” Melissa sites another major influence in her life as her husband of 31 years, Tillman Kyzer. “He thinks I can do anything. He is my biggest fan and promoter. It is because of his strong belief in me, I feel I have experienced success at a greater level,” she says of Tillman. “He has shown me what it means to live with integrity and maintain honesty in the work place. He is my inspiration as well as

my helper. He never complains when I need him to put up a sign, or refill the flyer box on his way to the office!” Melissa’s daughters, Lacey and Lane are her greatest personal achievement. She is very proud of the beautiful women they have become, both inside and out. “Sometimes I look at them and I feel so much pride and satisfaction in who they have become, that I can’t believe they are mine. Life is just too wonderful, and then there are the grandchildren. Just when you think your children are great, grandchildren come along to show them up! I would say that grandchildren make getting older absolutely worth it!” Professionally, Melissa is very proud of a gift shop called Cinnamon Hill. She and Sharon Merchant, who remains her dearest friend, owned it, and Melissa cherishes the memories of that experience. She recently qualified as a Lifetime Member of Columbia’s Multiple listing service, “Lifetime Member Circle of Excellence.” “It was a goal that I set, and I am thrilled to have achieved it.” Melissa has accomplished many other things in her role as an agent. She is a member of the “Chairman’s Club,” which is a Russell & Jeffcoat honor, in which the top 25 agents out of 600 plus agents, are ranked. For the past three years, Melissa has ranked from 19th to 20th. Still, “At the end of the day, I feel as though living a life without any regrets is the greatest achievement… I love my life, my family and friends, I love the home and town I live in, and I love what I am doing… Life is good!” she says. I asked, as I usually do, if Melissa had any quotes she would like to share with us. “I have two quotes attached to the front cover of my Day-Timer. The first says, ‘The task ahead of you is never as strong as the power behind you.’ It is referencing the power of God in my life. This quote has often motivated me to do a task with the assurance of success in the end. The second quote is ‘we make a living by what we get, we make a life by what we give.’” Wow… Thank you Melissa for sharing with us. It was a pleasure.

Photograph by Cynthia Pace Photography

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Professional

Why Was Rush’s the Right Choice for Me? Donna Chumley, In Her Own Words

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ush’s was the right choice for me for a variety of reasons. First, let me share with you how Rush’s started. In 1940, my grandparents, Henry Fred and Emily Rush, opened a small drivein and outlet store for their Carolina Dairy Farm on Broad River road. After fire destroyed the building, they reopened in 1949 as a window-service Dairy Queen on the same site. My father, George Rush, started working in the business when he was 12 and continued working while attending USC and ultimately graduating from Columbia College. During that time, he married my mother, Patricia Medlock, and was deeded the ice cream store from his parents. I am the oldest of three children; my siblings are Greta Rush Bishop and John Spencer Rush. My father used to take Greta and I (John was too young at the time) behind the counter at the old store on Broad River Road (which was replaced in 1994 with our current store design) and teach us how to work the ice cream machine. I instantly fell in love with the fast pace and excitement of the restaurant and decided early on that this was what I wanted to do “when I grew up.” I started working for Rush’s in 1977 at the age of 13. After working my way up through the ranks of the restaurant, I moved into the corporate office in 1993. Growing up in the business gave me a unique perspective—a long term orientation. It also allowed me to realize that participating in the Rush’s business was and is my lifelong passion. I am currently in charge of hiring and assisting management personnel and special projects. W2W: What is your educational background? Donna Chumley: I graduated from Irmo High School in 1982. I attended and graduated from the University of South Carolina with a B.S. in Hotel, Restaurant, and Tourism Administration.

W2W: What are some of your favorite aspects of your profession? Donna Chumley: I know it may sound cliché, but I really enjoy interacting with and serving Rush’s customers. Life is so fast-paced, and for many people, mealtimes are a chance to take a short break from work or spend time with their family. We strive to provide an atmosphere where people can sit down and enjoy their food and feel that their time in the restaurant was well spent. W2W: How is this rewarding to you? Donna Chumley: Given that we are a customer-service oriented business, the most rewarding aspect is when customers provide us with positive feedback. This means we are operating efficiently and effectively and providing a quality product that people enjoy. Since we are a small, locally-run business, another very rewarding part of the job is knowing that I’m participating in a Columbia-based tradition, and all employees of Rush’s are leaving a lasting community legacy. W2W: What are three words to describe you and why? Donna Chumley: Passionate, personable and creative. I have a true passion for the work I’m doing and for helping to continuously improve the business. While participating in the operation of a small business taps a lot of my personal energy, it is my passion and belief in Rush’s that makes coming to work fun. I also feel I am personable and enjoy being around lots of different people. Finally, in the highly competitive global economy, even a small, locally-owned business needs to keep “remaking” itself; therefore, creativity is important, as well as the ability to anticipate what customers will expect and want tomorrow in addition to today. W2W: Who are some of your female role models who have inspired you to make the most of your life? Donna Chumley: My greatest female role model is my mother, Pat. She passed away in 1988 at the young age of 47, and everyday I think about her and what she means to me. While she struggled in life, as many people do, she taught me that no matter how tough the situation is, obstacles can be overcome and we can use each day to become a better person. She was also a sweet person who taught me that there is always room for one more person at the dinner table. W2W: What male in your life has had the biggest impact on you, professionally and personally? Donna Chumley: I have two men that have impacted me the greatest: my father, George Rush, and my husband, Greg Chumley. Because my father built a business from scratch, he has taught me the value of perseverance and hard work. He is extremely creative as well and showed that customers do appreciate quality and good service. Greg has always been extremely supportive and patient and has been willing to put up with the rigors of a small business person in the family. Overall, I have been very blessed with him in my life.

54 Resources for Women by Women

Entertainment & Travel

The Event Planner of the Midlands MaryAnn Opal

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lthough new to the area, MaryAnn felt instantly at home when she moved to Lexington a few months ago. Her South Carolina roots go back to her childhood when her family made their annual pilgrimage through the Midlands visiting rela-

“With experience that ranges from small intimate parties to extravagant gala functions to high-powered medical conferences, MaryAnn is well qualified to handle any event you send her way.” tives from Charlotte to Charleston. MaryAnn recalls saying several times, “Someday I’m going to live here; two hours to the mountains, two hours to the ocean – it doesn’t get any better than that!” With 300 days of sunshine, well… it just got better! After living in Michigan for their first 25 years of marriage, MaryAnn’s husband Tom had the opportunity to come to the Midlands to further his engineering career. With an offer on the table, they exchanged a knowing glance and the decision was made. 15-year-old Mike was equally excited, as he also loves the idea of the mountains, the ocean and the warm, sunny weather. Mike attends Hammond School, which provides the perfect educational setting for him. The Opals are pleased and excited to call Lexington home. For MaryAnn personally, whose mom and dad always encouraged her to remember her roots, the move to the Midlands felt more like coming back home. Event planning has always come naturally for MaryAnn. For as long as she can remember, wherever she was and there was an event (family, church, social or meetings) she ended up as the event planner. About 15 years ago, what began with family and friends branched out to include friends of friends…then friends of friends of friends. Soon people started paying for her services and what was just a hobby turned into a thriving business. Word got around and soon

MaryAnn became known as The Event Planner. With an eye for detail like none other, and creativity that sets her events apart, MaryAnn has had years of overwhelming success as a career event planner. With experience that ranges from small intimate parties to extravagant gala functions to high-powered medical conferences, MaryAnn is well qualified to handle any event you send her way. She dedicates utmost attention to every aspect of the planning then tops it off with her flair for excellence turning parties, meetings and conventions into events to be remembered – with a smile. MaryAnn’s experiences as an event planner cover a wide variety of events, services and venues. She is knowledgeable in all aspects of social and professional events including, but not limited to: Medical Conventions, Clinical Trials and Investigator Meetings, Conferences, Seminars, Corporate Meetings, Company Picnics, Holiday Parties, Grand Openings, Graduation Parties, Birthday Parties, Themed Parties, Girls’ Weekend Away, Weddings, Fundraisers, and the list goes on! MaryAnn specializes in creating an event for any occasion. She is dedicated and focused, highly organized and has a demonstrated talent to take an idea from a visionary concept to an operational reality. MaryAnn’s event planning will exceed your expectations! The comment MaryAnn most often receives is, “You did such a great job planning all the details, I knew I could sit back, relax and actually enjoy the event.” When MaryAnn plans your party, whether formal or casual – put on your party clothes, forget the details, and enjoy! When she plans your professional event – put on your suit, forget the details, and… network! Give her a call because you deserve — The Event Planner.

Yes! You can buy time... Custom Event Planning a la carte to full service

Medical Conventions • Themed Parties Company Picnics • Holiday Parties Fundraisers • Grand Openings Conventions • Seminars • Weddings

THE EVENT PLANNER of the Midlands

MaryAnn Opal • 803.834.9005 PO Box 62 Lexington, SC 29071

...and peace of mind. 55

Entertainment & Travel

Jessica Judge

Columbia Inferno, Athletic Trainer

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fter spending four years in electrical engineering Jessica Judge said she realized that her “heart was no longer in it.” Outgoing, passionate and strong, Jessica decided sports medicine would give her an opportunity to be successful at something she truly loves. Working with some of the most talented players in the league is definitely a perk of being with the Columbia Inferno. Her healing hands and knowledgeable attentiveness keep the athletes performing at the top of their game. Jessica says this, along with getting paid to watch the sport she loves is one of the ways she finds her profession so rewarding. When asked what skills she possess that helps attribute her success with the Inferno, this was her response. “I have been an athlete my entire life-and have played hockey since I was eight years old. My personal love for the game as well as my understanding of the mindset and dedication of the athletes I work with gives me a unique approach to my career. I am able to not only connect with my players; I can connect with their sport, their injuries, their struggles and their triumphs.”

“It has taken me a while to truly come into my own but I am confident that anyone who sees me in the locker room now, or on the bench, or even on the ice, can very easily see my dedication and professionalism.” What would friends say about how you handle yourself professionally, Jessica? “I personally would hope that my friends see me as an honest, trustworthy, and caring person in all aspects of my life.” Jessica’s female role models are her mother and her sister Lisa, whom Jessica says are her best friends, her biggest fans, and her strongest

“Her healing hands and knowledgeable attentiveness keep the athletes performing at the top of their game.” supporters. “They have always been there for me—good and bad— and have never let me give up on my dreams. They are two of the smartest, strongest, and most loving women in this world, and I can only hope to be half the women that they are.” This is the quote that Jessica tries to live by, “Life is too short to wake up with regrets, so love the people who treat you right, forget the ones who don’t, and realize that everything happens for a reason. If you see a chance, take it...if it changes your life, let it. Nobody said it would be easy, they just promised it would be worth it!” The male that has had the biggest impact on her life both professionally and personally is Jessica’s father. “He has pushed me to be my best. It took me many years to understand the way he supported me, but he always has, in every aspect of my life...and he has never let me settle for anything but the best!” Of course, last but not least, we want to know what your greatest achievement is. “Currently this job is a major achievement for me. To work as a head athletic trainer right out of colleges is a challenge. Working in a professional sport is an even greater feat. Overcoming the gender bias and working as a female in a male dominated sport has been amazing!” Smart and focused, it is a pleasure to celebrate the achievements of Jessica Judge. We look forward to what the future holds for this young woman. “The secret of joy in work is contained in one word – excellence. To know how to do something well is to enjoy it.” —Pearl S. Buck

56 Resources for Women by Women

Entertainment & Travel

Columbia's Premiere AA Hockey Team Family Fun for Everyone!

Have your birthday Party with the columbia Inferno! for ticket information and game schedule: 803.256.puck www.columbiainferno.com

Promotional Nights 10/26 10/27 10/31 11/15 11/17 12/1 12/8 1/12 1/18 2/15 2/16 2/20 3/6 3/8 3/12 3/14 3/19 3/22 3/26 4/4

Palmetto Health Food Drive Military Night Halloween Costume Parade Turkey Bowling Report Card Night Teddy Bear Toss Toys For Tots Biggest Beer Belly Contest NASCAR Night Pink in the Rink Report Card Night 50’s Night 60’s Night Guns-N-Hoses 70’s Night St. Hat Tricks Day 80’s Night Blaze’s Birthday 90’s Night Everyone Gets a Gift Night

Dates and Times are subject to change. Go to www.columbiainferno.com for details on promotional nights

“Become a possibilitarian. No matter how dark things seem to be or actually are, raise your sights and see possibilities - always see them, for they’re always there.” — Norman Vincent Peale 57

58 Resources for Women by Women

L e x i n g t o n Wo m a n c e l e b r a t e s t h e s u r v i vo r i n yo u

Photograph by Clark Berry Photography

The Survivor Photo Shoot October 2007

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he ladies in the picture above are all Survivors, each of them at a different place in that process, some of them having faced similar cancers, and others not so well known forms of this menacing disease. They come from all different economic backgrounds. They are all different heights and sizes. I would venture to say if we asked about their heritage we would find a wide variety of family trees in this group of lovely women. The one thing that drew each of them to this moment in time, captured beautifully by Mr. Clark Berry is the fact that each of them has survived some form of cancer! Here are a few of the strong, resilient, beautiful women who faced a life threatening disease with courage and strength and decided to live another day. This photo started out as just an idea about one special lady that touched my own life with her faith and determination. You will read about Mrs. Diane Conyers in one of the next few pages. The Survivor photo shoot began to change after my aunt Peggy Harrison of Buford, Georgia was diagnosed with breast cancer in January of 2007. I wanted to share with women all over Lexington County that Cancer isn’t a death sentence. With early detection, state of the art treatment facilities and advancements made every day in research all over this magnificent world that we live in, people survive!

Photograph by Clark Berry Photography

I shared this idea with a few ladies and the Survivor Photo Shoot began to take on a life of its own. Women who I had no idea had ever battled cancer began to contact us and say, I am a survivor! I hope that reading about the four Survivors we chose to feature in this edition will inspire the survivor in you. Maybe it isn’t cancer you are facing, maybe it is another disease that has the odds stacked against you; perhaps it is a circumstance or a situation that has you wondering if you can get through. If so I encourage you to educate yourself and as Paulette Criscione would say, “Wrap your arms around faith,” and don’t give up! 59

Celebrating the

Survivor in You

Paulette Criscione

Director of Sports Marketing for the Lexington County Recreation and Aging Commission

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itting across from a perfectly put together Paulette Criscione, it was hard to imagine just days before she was a voice on the telephone to me. Engaging, kind, thoughtful and a woman of such innate grace, I smiled as I asked some tough questions. She answered honest and forthright, and I am certain it was the first of many lunches to come as I laid my black digital voice recorder on the table and clicked record. I smiled and got ready to celebrate the Survivor in one of the ladies who helped to create “Chemo with Style.” W2W: How does it feel to be a survivor, Paulette? Paulette: Great, I feel like everyday that I get up I am blessed. Just being a breast cancer survivor feels wonderful. Being a survivor

“If I could say one thing, that would be take one day at a time, just focus on that day. The other days will get there.” gives you the opportunity to meet a lot of other good folks with all different types of cancer. Again, I feel so blessed. W2W: What has been the most difficult part of this journey? Paulette: I think that the most difficult part would be the chemo. Trying to get through that, I call it a chemo cocktail. Just to keep moving, getting up everyday, and I pushed myself to go to work,

even when I didn’t feel like it. Luckily, I was surrounded by great people who just let me crash if I needed to. I can say the more chemo you take….the more accumulative that you take, the worse that it gets. I just wrapped my arms around faith and decided that I was going to let people be in my life, people who are friends and people who could take certain journeys with me. When I buzzed my hair, I pretended for a moment that I was GI Jane, and of course, after my hair was buzzed, I didn’t know what I was going to do with my head. W2W: You were GI Jane? Paulette: (laughing) Demi Moore had nothing on me, except her body. W2W: I bet she had a lot more surgery than you to get it too. Paulette: Laughing with me, then her tone changing to one of a more serious nature as she continued on…I had an angel come into my life and I truly believe that, and I just took one day at a time. The side effects of chemo were the most difficult part of my journey. Not everyone experiences side effects from chemo, but it’s good to know what they are. W2W: What three things do you think were detrimental to your survival? Paulette: Again, I go back to faith. You have to wrap your arms around faith, whatever faith that is, and you have to believe. Now that the cards are dealt, there isn’t anything that you can do but move forward with your life and believe that things will truly work out the way it’s supposed to. We all have a purpose in life. Secondly, my family and friends, the people who play a huge part in my life and some who have become friends since I’ve been diagnosed with breast cancer. You want friends, who are positive, to take the journey with you, because you have to find humor in this fight. It is so important. Thirdly, just believing and being able to give back to others is important. That is why I do some of the things that I do now, and it helps me, to help other folks. Everybody has a story and listening to others stories are just as important as my story is to me. There are so many good people out there that want to help other folks. It only takes a minute to give someone encouragement for the day. Being a survivor is a true testament to who you are. Chemo doesn’t define you. Cancer doesn’t define you. Bi-lateral mastectomy or whether you finish your reconstruction doesn’t define you. But its who you are and what’s in your heart that defines who you are.

Photograph by Clark Berry Photography

60 Resources for Women by Women

W2W: What has this journey taught you? Paulette: I was so busy before that life passed me by and before you

Celebrating the know it, a lot of time has passed. Life is sweeter now. It has helped me to slow down and enjoy my friends and family. It has given me the opportunity to make new friends. I go more places and enjoy volunteering for causes. When I was diagnosed with breast cancer, it still took a while for me to slow down, until I finally said, wow, maybe I can make a difference and help others. I helped to create a class called “Chemo with Style.” It was a fluke, because after I buzzed my hair I didn’t know what to do with my head. I started wearing turbans, scarves and pins during my treatments until my hair came back. Since there wasn’t a network of people to help me through this journey, along the way I met my friend Terry VannSchon. She and I founded “Chemo with Style,” a class that helps others with headwear. Truthfully, if I had not been diagnosed with breast cancer, I probably would have just kept up the fast pace. So yes, being diagnosed with cancer does make life sweeter.

important to me, that it generated another class, and another, and to watch as people start to laugh and start talking and sharing... W2W: What would you say to someone who just got the same diagnosis, and what do you wish someone would have said to you? Paulette: If I could say one thing, that would be take one day at a time, just focus on that day. The other days will get there. I do believe the unknown is so scary, but the cards are dealt, and you just have to play it. If you start creating the “what ifs?” in your mind it doesn’t help you mentally or physically get through that day, and today is really all you are promised… Just one day and the one day that you get up. The next day after you are diagnosed, you wake up as a survivor, not five years after or ten years or two years. That next day—you are a survivor. W2W: What do you want people to know about Paulette? Paulette: That I made a difference and that I always “paid it forward” in hopes that others will too. For some of us, this is not the end of our lives, but the beginning of it! I think those are words to live by, and before we finished lunch Paulette said those words and I thought them worth including for each of us. No matter what you have survived, don’t let it be your end. Let it be your beginning of a sweeter life!

All Survivor Photographs by Clark Berry Photography

W2W: What has been your best day? Paulette: My first “Chemo with Style” class had to be the best day for me. Because a lot of the women who attended the class are young—seventeen to eighteen years old all the way up to seventy years old. Most of the ladies didn’t know what to do with their head without hair. They came to a class, felt the support, felt like they weren’t all alone and left with an idea on how to cover their head with style. Again, not having hair doesn’t define who you are, but it is important to most of those ladies. That one class was so

Survivor in You

“Through humor, you can soften some of the worst blows that life delivers. And once you find laughter, no matter how painful your situation might be, you can survive it.” — Bill Cosby 61

Celebrating the

Survivor in You

Thank You!

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e would like to offer our sincere appreciation for the South Carolina Oncology Associates for allowing us the use of their Serenity Garden for our 2007 Survivor Shoot. It was absolutely beautiful! The South Carolina Garden Club and Sarah Ann Parlor—we thoroughly enjoyed the beautiful tranquility of the Serenity Garden. Thank you for providing such a lovely spot for so many wonderful people to enjoy. I would like to personally thank all of the volunteers that helped make this day possible: • Michelle Boggs • Betty Cagel • Paulette Criscione • Patsy Dukes • Carey Hall • Sarah Ann Parlor • Terry Vann Schon • Leah Scott • Lauri Truesdale • Cosellers Weeks Thank you to the Lexington Woman Advertisers who helped make our door prizes available: • The Crabb Shack of Lexington • Aloette Cosmetics • Arbonne International • Woman 2 Woman • Leah Scott of Arbonne international, who not only volunteered, but offered her services to help freshen up our ladies before the shoot. When Leah heard about what we were doing, she actually called us and asked to be allowed to come out and “make up” our ladies. Thank you Leah, for your kindness. We are so happy you were a part of our first annual Survivor Photo Shoot! If you or someone you know is a Survivor, please email or call us to be featured in an upcoming edition of Lexington Woman!

Photograph by Clark Berry Photography

62 Resources for Women by Women

Chemo with Style

“C

hemo with Style” was founded in November, 2005 by Paulette Criscione and Terry Vann-Shon and through all the heart felt volunteers who have dedicated their time and belief in this class to help others. It’s a class that invites all types

“Even if it’s one survivor out of many that we help, it’s worth the comfort and smiles that we see from them that keep us going.” of cancer survivors to participate in a fun evening to learn about different headwear fashions and other personal appearance tips. It helps to restore their sense of worth, which is crucial to help with their fight against cancer. The class meets every other month, and since its beginning, it has helped many people. Each person receives a nice goody bag that includes a turban, scarf and other stylish items. They also get to pick and choose a wig. This class is no cost to the survivor. Each class consists of a small group of women. You can feel the kindred spirits that is generated between the survivors with laughter, support and a sense of friendship. The classes also provide networking and resources for any patient that attends. They are given contact names, numbers and any information of organizations that will help support them through their journey. Because of the support from our sponsors, South Carolina Oncology Associates and Hospice Care of Tri-County, “Chemo with Style” is now expanding to Sumter and Camden in November and in January to the Augusta and Greenville areas, and Newberry, South Carolina. Even if it’s one survivor out of many that we help, it’s worth the comfort and smiles that we see from them that keep us going.

Chemo with Style “Chemo with Style” is designed for women in cancer treatment. It is a wonderful event that offers styling suggestions and is a great opportunity for the participants to be with others who are having similar experiences. At the party, volunteer stylists teach the participants beauty techniques and ideas for dealing with the effects of chemotherapy and radiation treatments. Practical tips are given for coping with hair loss, using wigs, scarves, jewelry and other accessories. At the end of our party, all participants will glance in the mirror at their transformed faces with broad smiles and a sense of reassurance that they are truly beautiful. Note: We are currently working on “Chemo with Style just for men” “Chemo with Style” is a © copyrighted program with Hospice Care of Tri-County. 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-County “Chemo With Style” Volunteers

Graciously accepting Donations Please call Terry Vann-Schon

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

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Celebrating the

Survivor in You

Amy Kinard

Mother Baby Nurse, Wife and Mother

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my Kinard is a beautiful young woman, a nurse at Lexington Medical Center on the Mother baby floor, and a survivor. She is an avid runner and unlike some of us, health conscious. Yet, as we have seen so often, cancer is not a respecter of persons. I liked Amy the moment I met her, even more so after the Survivor shoot when she tossed a baseball cap she had been wearing and flashed the camera a smile bright enough to compete with the professional lightning in the best studios, and I knew then that Amy Kinard was someone I could be friends with. Over breakfast as I interviewed Amy, we laughed about motherhood and being busy women. She spoke of family and faith with a quiet dignity resounding in every word. A wonderful mother of three, Harrison (10), Bryce (9), and Ellie (5), inviting over neighbors to a “shaving party” as she started to loose her hair during chemotherapy, letting the children do the honors of buzzing it away instead. W2W: Amy how do you feel about being a survivor? Amy: I still don’t categorize myself as a survivor. When does being a survivor start? Does it start after chemo? Do you call yourself a survivor after the surgery? I know I am (a survivor) but it is hard to pin point the exact day you become a survivor. W2W: I think the minute you wake up, the next morning after diagnosis and put your feet on the floor and decide that you are going to fight—that’s when you are a survivor. I don’t believe there’s a magic number, like you have to be cancer free for three years, or five years. The reality is that some women choose not to fight, but because you chose to face it head on and scrap—that makes you a survivor. Amy: In those terms, I decided from the beginning there wasn’t anything I could do to change this, so from then on I started trying to make it as easy as possible to get through it. I have small children and I have a life to live, and I certainly wasn’t going to let this cancer interfere with my life … I wasn’t going to stop going to baseball games, football games or cheerleading events. I wanted my kids to know that I was there—sick or not. I just didn’t let it get in the way. W2W: Tell me how you told your children. Amy: We waited a couple of weeks, but I think they sensed something was wrong. We were having a lot of hushed conversations and I didn’t want them to hear it from someone else at church or anywhere else; and we chose to speak with each of our children individually so that the needs of each individual child were met. Kids do see (cancer) as a death sentence. That is what they see on TV and that is how the media portrays it, so that was a big fear, one they wanted to know. Could they catch it, can they still touch me, kiss me, was it contagious? They were sad because they knew I was going to feel bad. We bought books and we talked about it and made it as light and as

64 Resources for Women by Women

Photograph by Clark Berry Photography

fun as cancer can be. We just let them know that we were going to be fine. I think this has truly been a life lesson for them, to see me. I knew that the way I reacted and how I responded was going to affect how they responded. I couldn’t lie on the sofa and cry … because I knew they were watching everything I did. I knew I had to be strong for them… we’ve cried together, and they know that there are times when mommy is sad, and when mommy doesn’t feel good. But for the most part they have seen how strong my faith has been, how people have come in from church and helped out and brought food, and they would ask, “Why are they doing that?” And I would say because they care about us. So I think it has been a lesson for all of us. We attend Lexington Baptist Church, and the support has been amazing. We are in a big Sunday school class and all of it has been overwhelming. W2W: What are three things, Amy, that you feel were crucial to you understanding that you would and will continue to survive? Amy: That’s a hard question…The biggest thing was my faith- Faith in God. That he was taking me down this path for a reason, I didn’t understand it and I didn’t like it but there wasn’t anything I could do to change it. And that strength made me realize that I was going to fight this and I wasn’t going to let it win. Having the knowledge being a nurse, one, I could process all this stuff, I knew how to decipher this information, and it was still new information. It wasn’t always stuff I knew about but I knew enough

Celebrating the to process it and to educate myself, hearing what the doctors had to say, Dr. Jones would say, “Amy, take it day by day, week by week, month by month, and we’ll just step by step make it through it.” He was a big eye opener in helping me understand I am not the only one going through this. That’s two. I will have to think on the third one. W2W: Were you giving yourself exams, or did you go for a mammogram. Amy: I went for my regular OBGYN appointment in January, and he said, “You are 34. You have to get your baseline mammogram at 35.” I said, “35? I thought baseline mammograms were supposed to be done at 40.” He said, “No, now its 35. So call me in July and I will write you a prescription to have it done.” So I said okay. My girlfriend had been diagnosed in May and she works at the hospital. She was also 34. I thought why her? She had young children— a two year old and a four year old—and that prompted me to start doing self breast exams. I found a lump and I thought it was a sym-

“You can get mad, you can cry, you can kick, you can scream, you can not love God, you can love God, but there is nothing you can do to change it.” pathy lump. I thought, “That is not what this is,” so I waited and did another self breast exam. When I found it was there, I still thought it was nothing. I called the doctor and said I found a lump… I thought I could talk myself out of having it. It was the size of my thumb. W2W: During this interview process, I have learned that most of the survivors I have spoken with found it themselves, not a mammogram. Amy: The most important thing I feel is being aware of your body. I think a lot of people just don’t want to know. I have so many girlfriends who have said they have never had a mammogram, because they just don’t want to know. They just don’t want to go through it, and I tell them it’s not that bad, it’s not that bad.

thing you have taken from this experience? Amy: My own self strength, and I don’t like to look at myself that way. I am a modest person and I don’t like for a big deal to be made about it. I have just really found out exactly who I am. I feel like I have grown up. Even though I have had small children, I’m a grown up now, I’m old. I’m 35, and I knew 35 was going to be a tough year—I just didn’t know it was going to be this tough. I feel like an adult. I feel like I have grown up. I am a stronger person and nothing can stop me now! Amy: No family history, no risk factors but I still tested positive for breast cancer. Cancer is blind. It is so random and sporadic. The American Cancer society has a whole list of risk factors: being over weight, over thirty five. I didn’t have any of the risk factors, but I still had breast cancer. My family has a history of heart disease. I am a runner. I ran because I knew I wanted my heart to be healthy. At 34, I was the healthiest I had been in my life. Yet, I still had breast cancer. W2W: Can you share something, Amy, that would help make this journey easier for some one else who has received your same diagnosis? Amy: You can’t change it. You can get mad, you can cry, you can kick, you can scream, you can not love God, you can love God, but there is nothing you can do to change it. If you get a lump and you find out it is cancer, you can’t change it … you can’t wish it away, you can’t make it go away, and so what are you going to do about it? Are you going to sit there and cry and feel sorry for yourself, or are you going to pick yourself up and go on with your life? That is what you have to do. You have to make that decision. I was not going to be a sick person, I was not going to have a pity party. And there were days when I had a pity party, and there were days when I was mad, but I never questioned why did this happen to me. I knew God had a plan for me. Did I like it? No. I just knew I couldn’t change it. It is what it is. And Dr. Jones did say to take it day by day, week by week. Each week my strength is coming back little by little. W2W: Years from now, if someone picked this up who didn’t know you, what would you want them to say about Amy Kinard? (We knew being modest as she is, this was another tough one for Amy.) Amy: That I am a great mom. That I love my kids and I put family first.

All Survivor Photographs by Clark Berry Photography

W2W: And now women live. Sixty years ago they didn’t, but today they do. This might be another hard one. What is the most valuable

Survivor in You

65

Celebrating the

Survivor in You

Diane Conyers Wife and Mother

D

iane is the kind of woman that glows from the inside out, much like our other survivors; I knew the day that I met her that there was something special about this woman. When I first saw Diane I had no idea that she was in the middle of treatment. I attributed her short red locks to “a hip hair style.” Chemotherapy never entered my mind. She never frowned, and always seemed to be surrounded by people who were smiling and laughing so naturally I had no reason to suspect that this lovely lady with a sweet disposition was going through the most difficult trial of her life. Diane has been married for 34 years to the same man, and has two children and four precious grandchildren. We wanted to know how Diane feels about surviving cancer. “It feels wonderful to be a survivor. When I first heard the words breast cancer, I thought I would die. I thought that would be the end of my life. Before I was diagnosed, it was not something I ever thought of, it was as if I had never heard the words before. Shocking to say the least, now I feel as if I am a different person than I used to be.” I asked Diane what the most difficult part of her journey was, her quiet spoken words even now forming tears in the soft glow of her amber colored eyes. “Giving my husband the news was the hardest part for me. We cried together. Losing my hair was as bad as losing my breasts, because a woman’s hair is her glory. After the bilateral

I felt a terrible sense of loss, initially. However my appearance became the most unimportant thing. Living takes precedence, much more than the physical, and (facing cancer) you get your priorities straight very quickly.” W2W: “What do you feel was crucial to your understanding that you would and will continue to survive cancer?” Diane: “I think the most important thing was quick action. The doctors acted very promptly with my course of treatment. Once it was determined that a lumpectomy would not be sufficient, that I had to have a double mastectomy, I never had a second thought. I knew that moving forward with that would farther my chances of survival. I believe going to my treatments and being dedicated to doing exactly what the doctor instructed me to do, not missing the chemo or the radiation, all those things worked together to make me a survivor. The most important thing was knowing God had a hand in this, more than anything else. My faith has had a tremendous impact on me being where I am today. I have been told by so many people that I had a glow about me, in the midst of all this tragedy. I have a relationship with the Lord that even grew deeper because all I had to rely on was my faith in God. God was and remains in control in my life. Even though I felt that everything was going to be fine and the doctors said everything is going to be fine, there was still something in the back of my mind that said “you could die.” I prayed, ‘I don’t wanna die; I don’t wanna leave my family,’ and I prepared myself for that next step if I had to take that journey.” W2W: What have you taken from this experience? Diane: “We are all so busy in our everyday life, we take little things for granted, and you learn to slow down and things that might have seemed important before are not important any more. You look at the big picture in life. I believe I am a different person, a much stronger person, a happier person, something has been taken away from me, but I’ve have been given an opportunity to appreciate life again, I have a heart of sympathy and love for other people, I may see a stranger walking down the street and my heart will just go out to that person, before I may not have given that stranger a second thought. After cancer your priorities change.” W2W: Diane, do you have a best day that you would like to share. Diane: “The day I was told I was cancer free for the first time, was my best day. It was like you get up the next morning and the sun is shining and the world is new and different than yesterday when you woke up and were unsure about your future. Today is the day you know everything is going to be okay.”

Photograph by Clark Berry Photography

66 Resources for Women by Women

Celebrating the “I would like to say one more thing, I want to tell other ladies there are survivors, there are treatments, don’t determine before you have

“We are all so busy in our everyday life, we take little things for granted, and you learn to slow down and things that might have seemed important before are not important any more.” educated yourself that you are going to die, just because you are diagnosed with cancer, it doesn’t mean this is the end of the world. You can survive.

All Survivor Photographs by Clark Berry Photography

Find a support group where other women have experienced the same things you have, or may be experiencing them currently. In this setting these women aren’t afraid to discuss things you may be

Survivor in You

going through, to discuss the things you may not want to discuss with your family. So many people showed their love and concern through cards, letters, kindness, and such a humbling outpouring of support from family and friends in the community meant a great deal to me.” Diane left us with this nugget, “Have your mammogram once a year yes, but please check yourself. I had had mammograms six months apart for two years prior to finding my lump. I was never told of any irregularities, and in July, I found a lump through a self breast exam. If I had not found that lump myself, how much longer would I have went without having it rechecked? Don’t rely on a once a year mammogram. Self Breast Exams are so important and it takes only a few minutes once a month. The earlier cancer is detected the greater the chance of survival.” “Courage is fear that has said its prayers.” — Maya Angelou

“You gain strength, courage, and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face. You are able to say to yourself, ‘I have lived through this horror. I can take the next thing that comes along. You must do the thing you think you cannot do.’” — Eleanor Roosevelt

67

Celebrating the

Survivor in You

Martha Shealy

Carolina Springs Middle, 6th grade English Language Arts Teacher

“I

met with Mrs. Martha Shealy during her planning period at Carolina Springs Middle School. With an infectious smile and a very real concern for women of all ages, it was a pleasure to sit and chat with her. I have been hearing all year about what a great teacher, Mrs. Shealy is (she is my son’s English teacher). When I found out she was a survivor, that was a perfect reason to visit with this lady whom my son speaks so well about and who is very obviously affecting my own family in a positive light. I asked Trey for a quote about Mrs. Martha Shealy, this is what he had to say, “Mrs. Shealy is the kind of teacher who really cares about learning from us (her students) and making sure we learn from her. She has a way of making the things I don’t really like, interesting.” Here is what she had to say about being a Survivor. W2W: How does it feel to be a survivor? Martha: Like I can conquer the world! If I have pulled through…this menacing disease, that most of us are experiencing in our lives, at some point or another, either ourselves or through friends and relatives, and I can conquer it, I feel like I can take on the world. I can’t… but I do feel like I can. I do feel like nothing can keep me down for having gone through this. Diagnosis: Feb 2005 W2W: When did you tell your children about the diagnosis? Martha: My husband and I sat them down and told them together, and we told them I would be fine. Because I knew I would be. It would require surgery and Chemotherapy, but in the long run ev-

erything would be great. I needed this medical procedure and prescriptive chemotherapy in order to be healthy. W2W: What are three things that you feel were crucial to your understanding that you would and will continue to be a Survivor? Martha: Prayer foremost—prayer and my faith. Secondly, my attitude, my husband, family and friends. I’m not sure if I have these out of order or not—I guess my husband would have to be second. My husband allowed me to have a good attitude. He was right there helping me—my partner—he was there through all of it, the doctor visits and the treatment. He was the best one to do that because he

“This has been a good thing for me and for all the women in my life.” was my partner. For anyone else to take me to all the places that he did, for all my visits and my follow-ups and my chemo therapy.…. But he was there for all my initial visits, oncologists, plastic surgeon, gastro endocrinologists. He was right there, so I have to give him credit for helping me form my attitude about getting through it. W2W: Was it devastating? Martha: Yes, absolutely devastating, but I looked around and so many other people had worse situations than mine, and mine was going to be just fine. I knew that. So why get bogged down? When I was diagnosed with not just one but with two cancers, my knowledge was, “Okay, this is beatable.” I didn’t even consider the fact that I was not going to pull through. After two or three visits with my surgeon, I thought, well I better ask. So I did say, “This is not going to take my life is it?” And he just kind of laughed and said “oh no, no.”…. I had no fear of losing my life. I thought that is something I need to clear up. W2W: Was it your faith? Or what made you feel like this was something you could beat? Martha: I honestly think it was because I had done those things that women should do. I was having regular mammograms, and I knew that something so devastating as to take my life would not have appeared over night. The facts that I knew them to be were clearly in my favor, and of course knowing I had the support and prayers of family and friends all over the country and possibly all over the world. My niece’s father-in-law is bishop in the United Methodist Church, and he had contacted the bishops and of course people all over Lexington. I heard about it through word of mouth from teachers with whom I was teaching. So, I had no doubt—no doubt at all. I do know that I have two daughters, and I need to be sure and make them aware that at every age, nowadays a young woman can be vulnerable. You can turn something like this into a positive thing by

68 Resources for Women by Women

Celebrating the

Survivor in You

knowing you can become a healthier person by being familiar with symptoms and what to look for; and I have to look at it in that way. This has been a good thing for me and for all the women in my life. W2W: What is the most valuable thing you have taken from this experience? Martha:I have to say that I have come to know God’s healing hands. I can get teary. I turn to scripture. Even when you know things are going to be okay, you still need a little motivation—a little encouragement and a nudge from your Father. You need more knowledge of scripture and how God’s healing hands are there—not just for myself and my family—but for others as well. Also, (realizing) a sense of (my own) perseverance to continue to go on. I have accomplished a lot since my diagnosis, in terms of graduate credit, graduate courses, things that I had to do that I had already committed to before my diagnosis. I was looking at some of the things that I have done in professional development since I’ve been teaching, and a majority of them have been done since my diagnosis. I don’t know if I was just trying to prove something—I don’t think so. For my children, sometimes, when they are facing things, I have them look around ... and try to see things as they could be in spite of what is in our lives. We can keep the attitude, faith and perseverance to continue forward and not let things get us down. Throughout my diagnosis and chemo and so forth, I would just tell my friends who called and asked about me, “Oh this is really just a bump in the road,” and it really is. It is just a bump in the road, but we grow from our hardships. We become stronger, more resilient, yet remain that compassionate person because we have been there; and we can understand, and we can give ourselves in a way that maybe we could not have before.

(I would also want them to know) that there is so much hope. There is so much going into research and that things are different today in 2007 than they were in 2005. There is so much more in terms of medical knowledge, so there is no reason not to have hope if you have taken care of yourselves all along and done your monthly breast exams. There is no reason not to believe everything will be fine and it will be! I am strong, not all by myself. I am a strong woman, and I do have my faith, and I do have my Lord who I call on fifty times a day. It is through Him that I can be so strong, and that does not mean that I do things right all the time; but I am strong, and I can help others by having been at a place in my life where I’ve had to pull myself up.

All Survivor Photographs by Clark Berry Photography

W2W: What is something you could share with a woman who just received the diagnosis? Martha: Continue to put your best foot forward, every step of every day. If you are used to dressing a certain way, then you have to continue to dress that way, no matter how tired or depressed you might feel. You have to always be your best, look your best and you will feel your best. Get your hair done. Get your nails done. Continue to do those things. When I chose my wig, I went with a sassy red one. Just keep on being your best. Your better attitude will evolve from all that.

69

Web Directory Aflac

Daybreak Adult Day Care

Sarah Dippity

Anytime Fitness

Dick Dyer Mercedes

South Wesleyan University

Arbonne International

Dick Dyer Volvo

The Studio

Art Imitating Life

Edward Jones

Thompson Funeral Home

Bank Meridian

Grace Pets Animal Hospital

Tim’s Touch Florist

Brain Bright Neurotherapy Center

Handpicked

Topp Limo

Clark Berry

Hudson’s Smoke House

Watershed Books

Colonial Center

Kids Furniture Plus

West Metro Chamber

Columbia Inferno

Kinard & Jones, LLC

Wingards Nursery

Columbia Women’s Healthcare

Lexington Medical Center

The Wired Bean

Columbia Metropolitain Airport

Old Mill Rug Gallery

Woman 2 Woman

Crabb Shack

Pro Music and Sound DJ

Wood Realty

Cynthia Pace Photography

Quiet Awakenings

www.aflac.com

www.anytimefitness.com

www.leahscott.myarbonne.com www.art-imitating-life.com www.bank-meridian.com www.BrainBright.Com www.clarkberry.com

www.thecolonialcenter.com www.columbiainferno.com www.columbiawhc.com

www.columbiaairport.com www.crabshacks.com

www.cynthiapacephotography.com

Photograph by Cynthia Pace Photography

70 Resources for Women by Women

www.daybreakcare.com

www.dickdyermercedes.com www.dickdyervolvo.com www.edwardjones.com www.gracepets.com

www.behandpicked.com www.hudsonssmokehouse.com www.bfpk.com

www.kinardjones.com www.lexmed.com

www.oldmillruggallery.com www.djpromusicandsound.com www.QuietAwakenings.com

www.sarahdippity.com www.swu.edu

www.studiooldmill.com www.thompsonsfuneral.com www.timstouchflorist.com www.topplimo1.com

www.watershedbooks.net www.visitwestmetrosc.com www.wingardsnursery.com www.wiredbean.net www.newwoman2woman.com www.woodrealtysc.com

Business Directory Adult Care Services

Florist

Airport

Funeral Home

Animal Hospital

Furniture

Arts & Entertainment

Health Services

DayBreak Adult Day Care........................................43 Columbia Metropolitan Airport..............................27 Grace Pets Animal Hospital.....................................39

Art Imitating Life......................................................... 8 Colonial Center..........................................................57 Pro Music and Sound................................................25 The Art Spot...............................................................37 The Studio...................................................................35

Attorney

Kinard & Jones Attorney..........................................46

Automotive Sales

Dick Dyer Mercedes..................................Back Cover Dick Dyer Volvo........................... Inside Front Cover Premium Auto Sales..................................................43

Automotive Services

Discount Tire of West Columbia.............................28 Woods Body Shop.....................................................43

Bookstore

Rainy Day Pals Bookstore.........................................36 Watershed Books.......................................................37

Chamber of Commerce

West Metro Chamber of Commerce.......................30

Children’s Entertainment

Sarah Dippity..............................................................33

Cosmetics & Skincare

Aloette.........................................................................19 Arbonne International..............................................15

Dentist

Palmetto Comprehensive Dentistry........................17

Dermatologist

Dermatology Associates...........................................21

Dining

Crabb Shack................................................................36 Hudson’s Smoke House.............................................28 Old Mill Pizza.............................................................36 The Wired Bean.........................................................37

Tim’s Touch Flowers & Gifts....................................11 Thompson Funeral Home........................................31 Baby Furniture Plus Kids..........................................32 Chemo with Style.......................................................63

Hospital

Lexington Medical Center........................................58

Investments

Edward Jones..............................................................48

Jewelry

The Chapman Co. Fine Jewelers..............................11 HandPicked.................................................................. 9

Limousine

Topp Limousine Service...........................................25

Mortgages & Personal Banking

BankMeridian......................................................49, 50

Nursery

Wingards Nursery.....................................................40

OB/GYN

Columbia Women’s Healthcare................................23

Pest Control

Crawling Critters Exterminators.............................43

Photography

Clark Berry Photography.....................................7, 37 Cynthia Pace Photography........... Inside Back Cover

Pools & Spas

Cromer Pools.............................................................41

Quilting

Pieces & Patches.........................................................37

Realtor

Melissa Kyzer/Russell & Jeffcoat..............................52 Paradigm Realty.........................................................51 Wood Realty...............................................................45

Salon

Palmetto Styles...........................................................41

Education

Salon & Spa

Event Planner

Sports Entertainment

Fitness Club

Supplemental Insurance

Floor Covering

Therapy

South Wesleyan University......................................... 9 The Event Planner of the Midlands.........................55 Anytime Fitness.........................................................22 Old Mill Rug Gallery.................................................36

Belly Riley’s.................................................................37 Columbia Inferno......................................................57 Aflac.............................................................................47 Brain Bright Neurotherapy Center..........................30 71

A Personal Note

thank you... I would like to dedicate this edition of Lexington Woman to my aunt, Peggy Harrison of Buford, Georgia. Peggy was a strong woman who seemed to always care more about taking care of those around her than herself. Peggy survived cancer for almost ten months after her diagnosis. She lost her hair and weight, not her dignity, and even my daughter, unaware that her great aunt was sporting a beautiful shaved head beneath it, remarked on how cool her purple hat was as we visited Georgia in the spring. “Chemo with Style” would have been proud of her ability to laugh and keep on fighting. Quite honestly, I don’t remember ever seeing her without a smile on her face. She was quick to laugh and loved to spend time in the mountains. A big George Jones fan as well, she never missed an opportunity to listen to his music. Her grandchildren benefited greatly from such a loving and generous grandmother. Our Survivor photo shoot became even more dear to me as she fought through this disease that our family lost both great-grandmothers to. I have decided to make cancer awareness and survival a part of every Woman 2 Woman publication in memory of her. I know she would be proud to be a part of this. To the little girl with the biggest heart I know, Ms. Abigail Grace Duncan, whose smile can light up a room and who always knows how to get the biggest laugh in any crowd. I love you, Abby. I am so thankful God chose to share you with us. For my mother, a woman of faith and a constant source of love and support to her children. To my best friend, my sister, Elaine Samples thank you for pushing me when I don’t want to be pushed. I mustn’t forget the men in my life. To my loving father, who taught me about unconditional love, “I miss you everyday Daddy. Thank you.” To my husband, Trenton Duncan, I love you, baby. Here is to a lifetime together. Thank you for all of your loving support. For John R. Duncan thank you for instilling a great work ethic in your son. I hope we make you proud. To my three sons, Trenton, Colton, and Ryan, for all the joy you give to me. I am proud to be your Mother. To all the wonderful women of Lexington who truly made this project a great experience for me, for my friends and family and for all the new friends I made along the way. Especially the ladies and gentlemen who participated in our Survivor photo shoot, you all inspire me! A very special thank you to three ladies this publication would not have been possible without, Michelle Boggs, Carey Hall and Lauri Truesdale. Thank you for your tireless efforts and beautiful stories. I am blessed.

Lori Samples Duncan Stop worrying about the potholes in the road and celebrate the journey! — Barbara Hoffman

72 Resources for Women by Women

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