All posts by imreal

Global Genes and the Rare Disease Diversity Coalition Expand Effort to Accelerate Diagnosis of Rare Disease in Underserved Communities


The new phase of the initiative focuses on the creation of educational materials aimed at community health workers engaged with Black, Latinx, and other minoritized communities within Kansas City, KS and Birmingham, AL metro areas. These materials will be utilized in teaching community health workers about rare diseases broadly, the importance of family histories, the role of genetic counseling, and when and how people can seek out genetic testing.

“People living with rare genetic diseases can go for years without obtaining an accurate diagnosis for their conditions and this delay can be much longer for people from historically underserved communities,” said Shruti Mitkus, Director of Genetic Education and Navigation for Global Genes, and Chair of an RDDC working group, Delays in Diagnosis. “By working with community health workers who are embedded in the communities they serve, this initiative will go a long way in increasing awareness of rare diseases at the grassroots level and help accelerate the path to a diagnosis and treatment.”

The first phase of the initiative, which began in 2022, involved a social media-driven, online campaign. Global Genes and RDDC created culturally-appropriate educational content that addressed the importance of family history, information about newborn screening, when to consider genetic testing, and how a genetic counselor may be able to help. Members of the RDDC Delays in Diagnosis working group, which included patients, caregivers, and health and diversity advocates who have extensive experience working with underserved communities, reviewed the campaign materials and provided input.

“In the case of many rare diseases, early treatment can be essential to minimizing the damage disease causes and improving the quality of life for people with these conditions. Knowing your family’s health history can help people recognize signs of a possible genetic disease and the need to pursue testing for themselves or a family member so they can start treatment before a condition progresses,” said Jenifer Ngo Waldrop, executive director of the RDDC. “Sometimes this can be a tough conversation, but it can give people important knowledge that can save lives, make our healthcare system less unfair, and stop needless suffering by letting them know when to get genetic testing.”

To learn more, visit http://www.knowyourfamilyhistory.org or http://www.conozcasuhistoriafamiliar.org.

About Global Genes
Global Genes is a 501(c)(3) leading international non-profit organization that is establishing a globally connected community committed to overcoming the challenges of rare disease. Together with our partners, we help people find and build communities, gain access to information and resources, and provide hope and support for the more than 400 million people affected by rare disease around the globe. If you or someone you love has a rare disease or are searching for a diagnosis, contact Global Genes at 949-248-RARE or visit our Resource Hub.

About Rare Disease Diversity Coalition
Black Women’s Health Imperative launched the Rare Disease Diversity Coalition to address the extraordinary challenges faced by rare disease patients of color. The Coalition brings together rare disease experts, health and diversity advocates, and industry leaders to identify and advocate for evidence-based solutions to alleviate the disproportionate burden of rare diseases on communities of color. The Rare Disease Diversity Coalition is focused on reducing racial disparities in the rare disease community. The Coalition’s work is led by BWHI and a leadership steering committee composed of advocacy, community, and industry leaders. Our leaders focus on reducing racial disparities in the rare disease community, identifying, and advocating for evidence-based solutions to alleviate the disproportionate burden of rare diseases on communities of color, and helping achieve greater equality within the rare disease community.

To learn more, visit: https://www.rarediseasediversity.org/

Media Contact

Lauren Alford, Global Genes, 949.248.7273, [email protected], www.globalgenes.org

D.O. Randolph, RDDC, 888.834.8451, [email protected], https://www.rarediseasediversity.org/

SOURCE Global Genes

Aprio Appoints Trent Watrous to Lead Firm’s National Dental Segment


“Trent is well-positioned to lead our National Dental Segment as we provide innovative techniques that support our clients and improve patient care,” said Richard Kopelman, Aprio CEO & Managing Partner. “As segment leader, Trent will amplify Aprio as the single source growth partner for dental practices of all sizes, assisting owners in achieving sustainable growth and success.”

“I’m honored to have the opportunity to lead our talented team as we advise top dental practices in the U.S. As we look toward 2024 and beyond, I believe we will continue to see an increase in the number of new practice start-ups, while multi-office practice owners will continue to seek support on maximizing their investments. Aprio’s National Dental Team is strategically positioned to work alongside clients to help them achieve their business goals amid today’s unpredictable economy,” said Trent.

Trent regularly shares his industry expertise with dental audiences across the U.S. He is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, the National Association of Certified Valuators and Analysts, and the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners. In addition to being a certified public accountant, he is also a Certified Exit Planning Advisor and is the former president of the West Tennessee Society of Certified Public Accountants. Trent is a widely recognized public speaker and recently delivered presentations to dental professionals across the southeast focused on creating financial success through organizational modifications and practice transitions.

Aprio’s full suite of dental practice offerings include traditional tax and accounting services, practice valuation and transition planning, wealth management integration, payer-mix optimization, due diligence and financial management. Additionally, Aprio’s dental team provides dentists with managed accounting services and real-time access to their financials through a customized dashboard. Using Aprio’s technologies, dentists can harness the power of timely, accurate and meaningful financial insights to make better, faster business decisions to stay focused on providing the best care to their patients.

For more information about Aprio’s National Dental Team, visit https://www.aprio.com/industries/dental-industry/.

For more information about Trent Watrous, visit https://www.aprio.com/people/trenton-watrous/

About Aprio: 
Aprio is a premier, full-service business advisory and accounting firm that advises clients and associates on how to achieve what’s next. Aprio’s associates work as integrated teams across advisory, audit, tax, outsourcing, talent solutions and private client services, bringing the best thinking and personal commitment to each client. Across practices, Aprio brings together proven expertise, deep understanding and strategic foresight for industries including Manufacturing and Distribution; Non-Profit and Education; Professional Services; Real Estate; Construction; Retail, Franchise and Hospitality; Government Contracting, and Technology and Blockchain. Aprio has grown to over 1,800 team members. To serve clients wherever life or business may take them, Aprio’s teams speak more than 60 languages and work with clients in over 50 countries. For more, visit http://www.aprio.com/.

Follow Aprio:
Aprio Website: https://www.aprio.com/
Aprio Careers: https://www.careers.aprio.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aprio
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aprioadvisors
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AprioAdvisors
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aprioadvisors/

Media Contact

Leslie Bashuk, Aprio,LLP, 4048929651, [email protected], www.aprio.com

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SOURCE Aprio,LLP



Dr. Rod J. Rohrich Recognized as Best Liposuction Surgeon in the United States by Newsweek


These lists were developed as the result of a national survey with more than 2,000 medical experts from doctors, surgeons, plastic surgery clinic managers, and health care professionals working in plastic surgery. During the survey period, over 8,400 votes were collected and analyzed for each cosmetic surgery procedure. Participants were asked to name the leading plastic surgeons for each cosmetic procedure in their own state as well as provide the same for out-of-state surgeons. The recommendations portion of the national survey counts as 85% of the total overall scores.

The participants were then asked to assess the quality of care (e.g., consultation with doctor, complications, follow-up care, outcome) to further differentiate the perceived reputation of each plastic surgeon. These answers, along with accreditation statuses were used to calculate the associated quality score portion, which weighs as the remaining 15% of the total overall scores. 

In the end, the survey results identified 358 individual surgeons which were then ranked into lists of the top 150 in each of the five specialties, with the specific rankings based on their total overall score.

Dr. Rohrich received the highest overall score and thus was ranked at the top of the list as the number one best liposuction plastic surgeon in the country. Dr. Rohrich also appears in each of the other procedure ranked lists; number one in facelift, number one in eyelid surgery, number one in rhinoplasty, as well as number three in the breast augmentation category. 

Dr. Rohrich uses an advanced technique of body contouring surgery combining ultrasound-assisted liposuction to obtain more uniform results, with a super-wet technique of liposuction to enhance overall safety. He has written extensively on this procedure and has demonstrated and taught this technique to thousands of plastic surgeons worldwide.

“Every person has their own unique physical characteristics and anatomy,” says Dr. Rohrich. “It is imperative that prospective patients have an honest discussion with their plastic surgeon regarding goals and expectations in order to ensure the most successful outcomes. Liposuction is an art and a science, as is all of plastic surgery.”

About Rod J. Rohrich, M.D., F.A.C.S.

Dr. Rod J. Rohrich is a board certified plastic surgeon in Dallas, Texas. He was named the top plastic surgeon in America by Newsweek in both rhinoplasty and facelift surgery in 2021, 2022 and 2023. Dr. Rohrich is a Clinical Professor of Plastic Surgery at Baylor College of Medicine. He was the first Chair of the Department of Plastic Surgery as well as the first plastic surgeon selected as a Distinguished Teaching Professor at UT Southwestern Medical Center. He graduated from Baylor College of Medicine with high honors and completed his plastic surgery training at the University of Michigan Medical Center and fellowships at Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard (hand/microsurgery) and Oxford University (pediatric plastic surgery). He is Chair of the Dallas Rhinoplasty Meeting, Founding Chair of the Dallas Cosmetic Surgery and Medicine Meeting, Founding Member of the Alliance in Reconstructive Surgery, and a Founding Partner of the Dallas Plastic Surgery Institute.

He is the immediate past (after serving for 18 years) Editor-in-Chief of the most respected global peer reviewed plastic surgery journal – the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Journal. He is Founding Editor-in-Chief/Editor Emeritus of the first open access peer reviewed plastic surgery journal, PRS Global Open. Dr. Rohrich has published over 1000 peer reviewed articles and seven textbooks in plastic surgery including a best-selling medical book entitled The Facial Danger Zones. Dr. Rohrich recently published an innovative cosmetic surgery video atlas, Cosmetic Surgery by the Masters.

Dr. Rohrich also served as president of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), the largest organization of board certified plastic surgeons in the world. He repeatedly has been selected by his peers as one of America’s best doctors. He received the ASPS Special Achievement Award and on three occasions has received one of his profession’s highest honors, the Plastic Surgery Foundation (PSF) Distinguished Service Award, which recognizes his contributions to education in plastic surgery. In addition, he has also been recognized by the PSF with the Plastic Surgery Foundation Distinguished Career Researcher Award for his contributions to plastic surgery research and innovations. He is also the recipient of the ASPS 2022 Honorary Citation.

Media Contact

Rod J. Rohrich, MD, Dallas Plastic Surgery Institute, (214) 821-9114, [email protected], https://drrohrich.com/

SOURCE Dallas Plastic Surgery Institute

Launching Silient, a New Company Designed to Revolutionize Cold Water Immersion Therapy with an Innovative On-Demand Solution to Existing Showers and Baths


“The inception of Silient marks a groundbreaking advancement, not only for individuals seeking the advantageous effects of cold therapy but also for the healthcare industry at large, as it introduces an entirely novel approach to the application of cold therapy,” said Dr. Jon Opraseuth, MD, South Shore Hospital. “While numerous cold therapy options, like cold tubs, exist in the market, their hygienic concerns and potential side effects are noteworthy. Silient has pioneered an innovative solution to optimize the cold therapy experience while harnessing the full spectrum of therapeutic benefits.”

Similar to hot water heaters, Silient is a new category of home appliance that chills water from the home’s fresh water supply down as cold as 40°F for multiple on-demand sessions throughout the day. The novel approach provides the option of cold showers or baths first thing in the morning to supercharge the day, or immediately after a sweaty workout to reduce inflammation and improve recovery time.

“We believe that challenging oneself leads to incredible achievements. With Silient, we reimagined cold therapy to make it more accessible, convenient, and effective for everyone,” said Mark Palchak, founder and CEO, Silient. “This launch signifies a pivotal moment in the wellness space, as our product offers cold therapy in the comfort of the existing bathroom.”

Unlike traditional cold therapy methods that often require specialized equipment or ice baths, Silient offers a seamless and innovative solution that leverages existing showers and baths. Customers can now indulge in the benefits of cold therapy without extensive maintenance. With Silient, users have the power to activate on-demand cold therapy sessions right from their smartphones, creating a more accessible and efficient way to experience this transformative practice.

According to a report by Transparency Market Research, a global market research company, the cold plunge market is predicted to accelerate to a market size of US $550.1 Million by 2031 from US $378.0 Million in 2022 – a 46.25% increase.

Cold plunging is one aspect of cold water therapy or cold water immersion, which is a practice that involves immersing oneself in cold water temperatures, usually for physical and mental health benefits such as enhanced mental focus, reduced depression symptoms, and faster recovery from tough workouts through reduced muscle inflammation. Cold therapy may have a positive effect on stress management as well.

The key features of the Silient cold therapy system include:

  • On-Demand Convenience: The benefits of cold immersion therapy in a user’s shower or bath.
  • Effortless Operation: With the touch of a button on a smartphone, Silient immediately delivers chilled water to your showers and baths. Water temperature is programmable, as cold as 40°F. After use, the water is rechilled to the desired temperature and stored in a cold tank for the next on-demand session.
  • Easy Installation: Silient manages installation, and seamlessly integrates into a user’s home plumbing, taking up minimal space and requiring just two plumbing connections and a standard outlet.
  • No Maintenance Required: No water changes or filter replacements necessary, providing a hassle-free cold therapy experience.

“I needed it, I couldn’t find it, so I built it,” added Palchak, about the driving force behind Silient’s inception. “This sentiment underscores the company’s commitment to providing individuals with a simple yet effective way to enhance their well-being. The launch of Silient’s innovative cold therapy solution is poised to reshape the industry and inspire individuals to embrace the power of cold therapy for improved mental and physical performance.”

For more information on Silient, please visit www.silient.com or instagram.com/be.silient

About Silient:

Silient is a trailblazing company dedicated to reimagining wellness practices and enhancing the way individuals engage with cold therapy. By introducing an innovative on-demand solution that makes cold therapy as simple as opening an app and stepping into the home’s existing shower or bath, Silient empowers individuals to embrace the transformative benefits of cold immersion therapy conveniently and effectively. Silient is committed to promoting peak performance, mental focus, and overall well-being through its revolutionary approach to cold therapy. For more information, please visit www.silient.com.

Media Contact

Erin Farrell-Talbot, Silient, 1 9172329309, [email protected], www.silient.com

SOURCE Silient



Mimio Health Commercially Launches Groundbreaking Biomimetic Based on the Science of Fasting to Promote Cellular Health and Longevity


Fasting has been shown across thousands of studies to be one of the most powerful ways to enhance health and promote longevity. Using fasting as a roadmap, Mimio Health’s biomimetic research has studied and decoded the changes that happen in the body to activate this innate longevity bio-program.

“Biomimetics seek inspiration from nature, where millions of years of evolution have resulted in highly efficient and effective solutions to various problems. Focusing on harnessing each individual’s own biology, we have closely studied the complex interplay of molecules along key pathways in the body and their compounding cellular benefits that are naturally activated during fasting,” said founder and CEO, Dr. Chris Rhodes. “While fasting has extraordinary scientific backing to provide health and longevity benefits, it can be a difficult long-term lifestyle, and many people who do fast are not unlocking the full benefits. With Mimio, we have been able to elevate the same beneficial bioactive metabolites that are produced during a prolonged fast without needing to skip a meal.”

By mimicking our bodies’ natural processes, Mimio’s biomimetic is designed to upregulate and enhance multiple cellular systems, such as autophagy, metabolic efficiency, and cellular repair and protection, that are typically activated during fasting. Based on years of clinical research at UC Davis studying the underlying biology of fasting, Mimio’s team discovered their proprietary blend of four bioactives (Spermidine, Nicotinamide, Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), and Oleoylethanolamide (OEA)) that were uniquely elevated in the body during a 36-hour fast. Together, these fasting metabolites work synergistically to activate the cell’s built-in health pathways and unlock both the body’s innate regenerative abilities and compounding cellular benefits without needing to skip a meal.

“Our scientific mission to study, decode, and activate human biology has led us to this remarkable discovery, with much more to come,” continued Dr. Rhodes. “The potential of our biomimetic research to uncover safe and effective bioactive molecules with direct impacts on human health is unparalleled and I can’t wait for what’s on the horizon. I’m humbled to be in a position where my research is making a difference in people’s daily wellness, allowing them to harness the power of their own biology to live fuller, healthier lives.”

The science behind Mimio is validated by a recent peer-reviewed clinical study authored by Dr. Chris Rhodes et al. and published by The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. Moreover, the bioactive ingredients in Mimio’s formulation have been validated in over 100 clinical studies to achieve whole-body benefits.

“Mimio is a truly game-changing company in the human health and optimization space. As an ultrarunner always looking for a performance edge, I am faced with some of the most demanding physical challenges in the world,” said Charlie Engle, American ultramarathon runner and author. “I’m consistently impressed with Mimio’s ability to enhance my energy, motivation, endurance, and recovery.”

In addition to their new formulation, Mimio Health also announced a $1.75M Seed round led by Better Ventures, with participation by SOSV, Thia Ventures, What If Ventures, R42, and Gaingels. With the new funds, Mimio Health will continue to expand their product lines, perform additional clinical research, and continue their discovery efforts to identify novel biomimetic formulations.

Mimio is available now for purchase at http://www.mimiohealth.com.

About Mimio Health

Mimio Health is the biomimetic human health company. We harness the power of human biology to supercharge the body’s natural restorative abilities.
Our flagship product, Mimio, is a biomimetic designed to activate our cells’ built-in regenerative abilities to clean, repair, and protect themselves. By tapping into thousands of years of evolutionary knowledge about how key molecules are designed to optimally interact, Mimio’s biomimetic ingredients work together to upregulate and enhance various cellular processes that were previously only accessible through fasting. The resulting physical and cognitive benefits include improved metabolic health, increased energy and performance, enhanced mood and focus, balanced inflammatory responses, and optimized healthy aging.
Mimio seamlessly blends into your daily care routine, whether you currently fast and are looking to enhance the results, or are simply looking for a way to take care of your body at a cellular level without skipping a single meal.

Mimio’s founder, Dr. Chris Rhodes’ scientific curiosity has always led him back to longevity. Mimio was inspired by his doctorate research and study of the underlying biology of fasting and its impact on longevity.

To learn more or to try Mimio yourself, please visit: mimiohealth.com.

Mimio Health. Your biology. Your superpower.

Media Contact

Cameron Gordon, JDI, (410) 504-9380, [email protected]

SOURCE JDI

Keypoint Intelligence 2023 Business Leader Survey Uncovers Shifts in Direct Marketing Strategy


Greg Cholmondeley, Director of Production Workflow at Keypoint Intelligence, noted that despite marketing communications continuing to shift from printed to digital, a strong majority of respondents have noticed there is a resurgence of popularity in printed direct mail. Issues relating to data privacy are significant factors towards this resurgence. “Nearly 60% of campaigns use digital and printed components for the same messaging,” says Greg. “Businesses should consider taking an integrated, omni-channel approach to their to the marketing campaigns.”

Along with an omni-channel strategy, it was concluded that personalized messaging is also essential to a business’ marketing plan. Consistent with recent research from Keypoint Intelligence’s Customer Communications Experience advisory service, audiences want messaging that directly addresses their needs and challenges, and communication is personalized for the individual significantly across different channels.

The Direct Marketing Communications Research report can be purchased separately or as part of a subscription to other research provided by Keypoint Intelligence’s Customer Communications Experience advisory service.

For more information about the report, please click here.

About Keypoint Intelligence:
For 60 years, clients in the digital imaging industry have relied on Keypoint Intelligence for independent hands-on testing, lab data, and extensive market research to drive their product and sales success. Keypoint Intelligence has been recognized as the industry’s most trusted resource for unbiased information, analysis, and awards due to decades of analyst experience.

Contact:
[email protected]

Media Contact

Donna O’Malley, Keypoint Intelligence, 339-666-3738, [email protected], https://keypointintelligence.com/

SOURCE Keypoint Intelligence

National Do Not Disturb While Driving Day Advocates Life-Saving Smartphone App to Curb Distracted Driving


End Distracted Driving Urges Drivers to Turn On Life-saving Smartphone App

PHILADELPHIA, Oct. 19, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — End Distracted Driving (EndDD) and the National Distracted Driving Coalition (NDDC) are urging drivers to “set it and forget it” for the second annual National Do Not Disturb While Driving Day on Thursday, October 19.

“Turn this setting on and leave it on,” said Joel Feldman, founder of the Casey Feldman Foundation and EndDD.org. “It took my daughter being killed by a distracted driver for me to commit to being more focused behind the wheel. It shouldn’t take a tragedy for each of us to make that decision. Enabling this setting is a quick and easy step that we can all take right now.”

Feldman points out that the Do Not Disturb function can be set to turn on automatically on both iPhone and android devices while the user is driving. The feature will silence incoming calls and texts and notify the sender that the driver will respond once they have arrived at their destination.

Distracted driving remains a major problem on U.S. roads. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that distracted driving was involved in 29-percent of all crashes in 2019, resulting in more than 10-thousand deaths – cell phones are a major culprit. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, crash risk is 2-6 times higher when drivers are using a cell phone compared to when they aren’t distracted. feature.

Said Matt Fiorentino, VP of Marketing for Cambridge Mobile Telematics, “Do Not Disturb While Driving works – 74% of people who use it say it’s made them a safer driver. The problem is that only 1 of 5 drivers use it. This is a huge missed opportunity to make roads safer and save lives. Making Do Not Disturb While Driving an opt-out feature would be one of the fastest ways we could reduce distracted driving across the country.”

On Do Not Disturb While Driving Day, EndDD and NDDC hope to raise awareness about the easy to use feature. Says Feldman, “Distracted driving has gotten worse since my daughter was killed in 2009. Our phones are so addictive – if we hear them we will use them. Using the DNDWD settings on our phones is so simple and effective and the right thing to do. We can all do our part to make our roads safer if we just “set it and forget it.”

ABOUT END DISTRACTED DRIVING:

End Distracted Driving (EndDD), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, was founded after a distracted driver killed Casey Anderson Feldman in 2009. EndDD’s mission is to save lives from distracted driving through advocacy, education, and action. Using science-based distracted driving presentations, a network of 125 speakers has spoken to more than 500,000 students across the nation at no cost to their schools. Other educational materials, presentations, and lesson plans help passengers of all ages effectively speak up against distracted driving. For more information, please visit EndDD.org. Follow EndDD on Facebook at @EndDistractedDriving.

ABOUT THE NATIONAL DISTRACTED DRIVING COALITION:

The National Distracted Driving Coalition was formed in March 2021 to address distracted driving which is a contributing factor to road deaths and injuries. This road safety issue is a priority concern shared by many organizations across many sectors. A diverse cross-section of entities, representing academia, non-profits, government, advocacy, and industry, including insurance, transportation, automotive and technology, have come together to create a National Action Plan to tackle this important issue. For more information visit https://usnddc.org/

Media Contact

Deborah Forrister, End Distracted Driving, 1 215-735-3716, [email protected], https://www.enddd.org/

SOURCE End Distracted Driving

Learn How People with Pulmonary Hypertension ‘Live PHearlessly’ During PH Awareness Month


The Pulmonary Hypertension Association’s “Live PHearlessly” campaign strives to celebrate how the pulmonary hypertension community thrives despite a rare disease.

WASHINGTON, Oct. 19, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Every November, the Pulmonary Hypertension Association (PHA) launches a national campaign to raise awareness about pulmonary hypertension (PH). This progressive rare disease is defined by high blood pressure in the lungs and can cause right-heart failure and even death.

For this year’s PH Awareness Month, PHA is launching the “Live PHearlessly” campaign to celebrate the resilience of individuals with PH. Throughout November, PHA will share inspiring stories that demonstrate how people from the PH community thrive while managing this rare disease. PHA will also share educational materials about risk factors, signs and symptoms.

PH contributes to more than 18,000 adult deaths each year in the United States. It can occur among those with left-heart disease; associated conditions such as sleep apnea, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or scleroderma; or from congenital heart disease. It affects people of any age, sex, race, or social or ethnic background.

PH is significantly underdiagnosed and misunderstood, even among health care providers. Symptoms, including shortness of breath, fatigue and chest pain, aren’t specific to PH and can dangerously delay diagnosis. While PH is incurable, early diagnosis and proper treatment can extend and improve quality of life.

“PHA continues to share stories of the triumphs and challenges of individuals with PH. This awareness month we highlight how members of the PH community ‘Live PHearlessly,’ proving that a PH diagnosis doesn’t define them,” said PHA Board of Trustees chair Tony Lahnston. “The pulmonary hypertension community faces a bright future with increased awareness, improved support and advances in available treatments. PHA staff and leadership remain dedicated to fulfilling our mission to extend and improve the lives of those affected by PH.”

PHA’s outreach during November includes social media, advocacy, education and fundraising components. PHA’s PH Awareness Month digital toolkit includes social media profile and cover images, infographics, downloadable fact sheets and flyers, and other elements to raise awareness throughout November.

Notable PH Awareness Month Activities

1.CTEPH Awareness Day. PHA will raise awareness Nov. 8 about chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH), a rare form of PH caused by blood clots in the lungs that harden over time and impede blood flow. Up to 5% of people who develop pulmonary embolisms (blood clots in the lungs) may develop CTEPH. Unlike some forms of PH, CTEPH has treatment options, including a potentially curative surgery.

To celebrate CTEPH Awareness Day, PHA will release videos in English and Spanish highlighting 10 important CTEPH facts. Additionally, PHA will share a video of CTEPH patient Mark Porter discussing his diagnosis and treatment journey. The day’s activities will conclude with a national virtual support group for those affected by CTEPH at 8 p.m. EST.

2. PHA’s Day of Action, Nov. 15, aims to elevate the pressing need for supplemental oxygen access. The PH community will share their supplemental oxygen stories and photos on social media; send letters to the editors of magazines, newspapers and online platforms; and urge Congress to improve access to supplemental oxygen.

3.Joining the global day of giving, PHA will celebrate GivingTuesday on Nov. 28, inviting community support and participation.

4. On Nov. 30 at 2 p.m. EST, PHA will host the first installment of the two-part webinar series, “Hope Through Research in Pulmonary Hypertension: Emerging Developments.” Simulcast in English and Spanish, this webinar will address developments in PH research and PHA’s investment in the clinical trial process. The second webinar, “Hope Through Research in Pulmonary Hypertension: Clinical Trails,” is Dec. 14 at 2 p.m. EDT. Both webinars were developed in partnership with FundaciSn Contra la HipertensiSn Pulmonar, a pulmonary hypertension organization in Spain.

5.In addition to virtual opportunities, PHA will host three in-person fundraising events:

More information about PH, the “Live PHearlessly” campaign and how to raise awareness can be found at PHAssociation.org/Awarenessmonth.

About the Pulmonary Hypertension Association

Headquartered in Washington, D.C., the Pulmonary Hypertension Association (PHA) is the country’s oldest and largest nonprofit patient association dedicated to the pulmonary hypertension (PH) community. Pulmonary hypertension is a rare, chronic and life-threatening disease of the lungs for which no cure currently exists. PHA’s mission is to extend and improve the lives of those affected by PH. To achieve this mission, PHA engages people with PH and their families, caregivers, health care providers, and researchers worldwide who work together to advocate for the PH community, provide support to patients, caregivers and families, offer up-to-date education and information on PH, improve quality patient care, and fund and promote research. For more information, visit www.PHAssociation.org and connect with PHA on X/Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.

Media Contact

Zangi Miti, Pulmonary Hypertension Association, 1 301-565-3004, [email protected], https://phassociation.org/

SOURCE Pulmonary Hypertension Association



Visit Temecula Valley Introduces Season’s Eatings, Shares 31 Ways to Celebrate Temecula Chilled During the Holidays in Southern California Wine Country


Here are a few spirited suggestions for visitors to consider during December. More information, including hotel and lodging options, can be found here: http://www.visittemeculavalley.com.

Santa’s Electric Light Parade: On Friday, Dec. 1, Old Town Temecula is decked with holiday lights and décor in time for the highly anticipated annual parade. Santa will greet everyone with warmth, good will, and festive holiday cheer during this fun family holiday event.

Old Town Temecula: Old Town becomes a nostalgic, charming small town during the holidays with its outdoor ice rink, holiday décor and music, and friendly hospitality. Look for someone in a Temecula Chilled apron giving away free cookies walking along every Monday through Thursday at 2:00 p.m. Find unique gift ideas at the specialty shops, even made-in-Temecula products, and taste some of the creatively delicious Season’s Eatings food and drinks.

Southern California Wine Country: Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or first-time visitor, Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country offers a picturesque setting with rolling hills, nearly 50 wineries, and 20-plus places to dine. Throughout the holiday season, wine country is transformed into a holiday destination, with stunning decorations, Season’s Eatings-themed foods and beverages, holiday markets, special performances, an ice skating rink, and more.

Pechanga Resort Casino: From handmade gingerbread houses ready for purchase to a giant gingerbread display, Pechanga Resort Casino has all the picture-perfect elements to make this holiday season special. An array of holiday decorations adorns the entire property inside and out, with dazzling displays perfect for holiday photos. Chris Isaak’s It’s Almost Christmas Tour performance is on December 20. Guests can also enjoy a variety of dining options at 12 restaurants.

Temecula on Ice: Lace up your skates and hit the ice in Old Town, directly in front of City Hall. This seasonal attraction is fun for skaters of all ages and skill levels and makes for a perfect family activity!

Holiday Performances: Catch colorful and festive performances at venues like the Old Town Temecula Community Theater, The Merc, Europa Village, and Pechanga Resort & Casino, among others. From holiday music to beloved stage plays and traditional favorites, live entertainment is offered all month long.

New Year’s Eve Grape Drop: Families can ring in the New Year with the annual Grape Drop celebration in Old Town Temecula with ice skating, live music, food vendors, and a countdown at 9:00 p.m. and midnight. Adults can enjoy toasting in the New Year at one of the many celebrations in wine country – but get your tickets early because these parties sell out quickly – or choose one of the many options at Pechanga Resort Casino.

There’s something to do every day during Temecula Chilled. For continuous updates and more information, go to: http://www.visittemeculavalley.com

December 1 – Santa’s Electric Light Parade, Old Town
December 2 – The Nutcracker Ballet, Europa Village
December 3 – Dinner with Santa, Lorimar Winery
December 4 – Seasons Eatings themed food and drinks
Dec. 5 – Jingle Bell Sleigh Ride, Temecula Carriage Company
Dec. 6 – Holiday Taste of Old Town
Dec. 7 – Chanukah Celebration, Lorimar Winery
Dec. 8 – A Christmas Carol, Temecula Old Town Community Theater
Dec. 9 – Christmas Around the World, Temecula Valley Museum
Dec. 10 – Candlelight Classics, The Merc in Old Town
Dec. 11 – Chilled Cookies in Old Town
Dec. 12 – Ice Skating, Peltzer Winery
Dec. 13 – Temecula Sunset Market, Old Town
Dec. 14 – Holiday Shopping in Old Town
Dec. 15 – Ugly Sweater Christmas Party, Europa Village
Dec. 16 – Holiday Concert, Temecula Valley Symphony
Dec. 17 – Hot Air Ballooning
Dec. 18 – Gingerbread Display, Pechanga Resort Casino
Dec. 19 – Santa’s Workshop, Temecula Carriage Company
Dec. 20 – Motown Holiday Dance Party, Old Town Blues Club
Dec. 21 – Festive Lights in Wine Country
Dec. 22 – Christmas Carolers, The Vineyard Rose Restaurant, South Coast Winery Resort & Spa
Dec. 23 – Santa at Pennypickle’s Workshop, Pechanga Resort Casino, or Promenade
Dec. 24 – Holiday Market, Europa Village
Dec. 25 – Christmas Dinner in Wine Country
Dec. 26 – See the Christmas Decorating Contest Winners, Old Town and Wine Country
Dec. 27 – Indulge in a Spa Treatment, Grapeseed Spa, South Coast Winery Resort & Spa
Dec. 28 – Temecula on Ice, Old Town
Dec. 29 – Holiday in the Park, Vail Lake Village
Dec. 30 – Horseback riding, CRC Ranch
Dec. 31 – New Year’s Eve Grape Drop, Old Town

For more information on holiday events and activities in Temecula, go to TemeculaChilled.com.

Media Contact

Norma Marlowe, Visit Temecula Valley, 951-252-2139, [email protected], www.visittemeculavalley.com

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SOURCE Visit Temecula Valley