Category Archives: Health

What is new in the field of Health. Trending topics, and cutting edge research in the are of Health. Press Releases that give us updates on Health.

Pediatric Dental Care of Memphis Welcomes Dr. Jacob Stegeman, Announces New Location, Updated Website


Pediatric Dental Care of Memphis

I’m excited to join the incredible team at Pediatric Dental Care of Memphis. I look forward to helping families take care of their children’s smiles.

Pediatric Dental Care of Memphis is pleased to announce the addition of Dr. Jacob Stegeman to its team of pediatric dentists. Along with the addition of Dr. Stegeman, Pediatric Dental Care of Memphis opened a new location in White Station and also launched a new website, located at https://www.pdocforkids.com.

Dr. Stegeman is a Tennessee native who graduated from the University of Tennessee in Knoxville before receiving his Doctorate of Dental Surgery. A member of the American Dental Association and the Tennessee Dental Association, Dr. Stegeman is dedicated to helping parents and children understand the importance of dental care and making it fun for kids.

“I’m excited to join the incredible team at Pediatric Dental Care of Memphis,” said Dr. Stegeman. “I look forward to helping families take care of their children’s smiles.”

Pediatric Dental Care of Memphis is a premier pediatric dental clinic serving Memphis and the surrounding areas. The clinic offers a wide range of services, including preventive and general pediatric dentistry.

The practice is led by pediatric dentist Dr. John Acosta and supported by dedicated pediatric dental hygienists and technicians who provide the highest quality care for children.

Pediatric Dental Care of Memphis’s new website features a new design and additional information about the clinic’s services. It features a wealth of information about pediatric dental care and a convenient online appointment booking tool. The website also includes patient resources such as tips on how to improve oral health, dental insurance and financial information, as well as answers to pediatric dental FAQs.

Patients and their parents can also read more about caring for children’s teeth on the website’s blog, which is updated regularly with useful information about dental health. The blog features posts on topics such as how to keep children’s teeth healthy and tips for treating a child’s first cavity.

Pediatric Dental Care’s office is designed to provide patients with a comfortable and friendly environment and is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including intraoral cameras and digital X-rays. Pediatric Dental Care of Memphis is Board Certified by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry and provides a wide range of services for babies through teenagers, including:


  • General dentistry, including cleanings, fillings, and examinations
  • Sealants and fluoride treatments to prevent cavities
  • Baby root canals also called a pulpotomy
  • Tooth extractions (in certain cases)
  • Pediatric dental emergencies
  • Special needs dentistry
  • Baby bottle tooth decay treatment
  • Pediatric gum disease prevention and treatment

About Pediatric Dental Care of Memphis

Pediatric Dental Care of Memphis is a full-service pediatric dental clinic with two locations.

Kirby Center Cove

6611 Kirby Center Cove

Memphis, TN

901-363-8192

White Station Road

717 S White Station Rd, #7

Memphis, TN

901-560-4386

To learn more and make an appointment, visit https://www.pdocforkids.com.

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American Parkinson Disease Association Launches Professional Training Course to Educate About Advanced Parkinson’s Disease


This training course will help [home health aides and other care professionals] navigate the unique needs of individuals with advanced Parkinson’s and provide a higher quality of care and support, enhancing the well-being and quality of life for those they care for.

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurological disorder and although the rate of progression varies significantly from person to person, progression itself is inevitable. With a mission to improve the quality of life of those living with PD, the American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA) created Taking Care of the Person with Advanced Parkinson’s Disease©, a specialized online training course to help those who care for people with PD – particularly home health aides, nursing home staff, and visiting nurses – better understand the symptoms and challenges that come with advanced PD and how to best manage them.

Caring for someone with advanced Parkinson’s disease can be challenging and complex. The goal of Taking Care of the Person with Advanced Parkinson’s Disease is for those who complete the course to feel better equipped to handle the obstacles that may come their way when caring for someone with advanced PD.

The course presents an overview of Parkinson’s disease, with a focus on the person with advanced PD and is divided into three sections:

  • The basics of Parkinson’s disease, including the motor symptoms of PD.
  • The non-motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.
  • Treatments for PD and advice for living well with the disease.

Each section provides an overview and information presented by experts in the field, followed by a brief quiz. After completing the three sections there is a final certification test to complete. The course is provided free of charge and takes approximately one hour to complete. Those who complete the course will receive a certificate of completion and will also receive one hour of CEU. (CEU credit will be available shortly. Those who complete the course now will be notified when the CEUs are available.)

“Home health aides and other care professionals play an important role in the PD journey and their ability to handle the increasing symptoms in those they care for can make a tremendous difference in the lives of their patients,” states Dr. Rebecca Gilbert, Chief Scientific Officer, APDA and author of the course. “This training course will help them navigate the unique needs of individuals with advanced Parkinson’s and provide a higher quality of care and support, enhancing the well-being and quality of life for those they care for.”

Leslie A. Chambers, APDA’s President and CEO states “A key part of APDA’s mission is to help people with Parkinson’s live the best life possible. By training and educating those who help care for them, especially as the disease progresses, we know it can make a tremendous difference.” She continues, “We are proud and excited to launch this new training course, and to offer it for free so that it is accessible to as many home health aides as possible.”

Taking Care of the Person with Advanced Parkinson’s Disease is now one of three free online training courses for professionals created by APDA, all available at http://www.apdaparkinson.org/training.

  • APDA Parkinson’s Disease Awareness Training for First Responders
  • APDA Parkinson’s Disease Training for Fitness, Health & Wellness Professionals
  • Taking Care of the Person with Advanced Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s disease is the second-most common neurodegenerative disease (after Alzheimer’s) with 90,000 new diagnoses in the United States every year. It is critical to raise awareness not only among the general public, but also among the health care industry so that the PD community can be cared for and supported in the best ways possible.

About the American Parkinson Disease Association:

The American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA) is a nationwide grassroots network dedicated to fighting Parkinson’s disease (PD) and works tirelessly to help the more than one million people in the U.S. with PD live life to the fullest in the face of this chronic, neurological disorder. Founded in 1961, APDA has raised and invested more than $252 million to provide outstanding patient services and educational programs, elevate public awareness about the disease, and support research designed to unlock the mysteries of PD and ultimately put an end to this disease. To join us in the fight against Parkinson’s disease and to learn more about the support APDA provides nationally through our network of Chapters and Information & Referral (I&R) Centers, as well as our national Research Program and Centers for Advanced Research, please visit us at http://www.apdaparkinson.org.

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Monster Energy’s Justin Gaethje Defeats Dustin Poirier via Head Kick K.O. at UFC 291


Monster Energy’s Justin Gaethje Defeats Dustin Poirier via Head Kick K.O. at UFC 291 in Salt Lake City, Utah

“I want to prove I’m the best in the world. Win, lose or draw, max effort is what you’re going to get from me.” – Justin Gaethje

“The Highlight” does it again! Monster Energy congratulates Justin Gaethje on defeating Dustin Poirier and earning the infamous BMF Belt at UFC 291 in Salt Lake City. In the night’s Main Event fight contested in the Lightweight division, the 34-year-old from Safford, Arizona, dealt Poirier a thunderous stoppage via a head kick in Round 2 and earned the UFC’s $50,000 Performance of the Night Bonus.

Earlier in the night, 36-year-old Alex Pereira from São Bernardo do Campo, Brazil, went the distance against Jan Blachowicz to earn a victory by split decision in his debut fight in the Light Heavyweight division.

UFC 291: Poirier vs. Gaethje 2 was contested in front of a live crowd of 18,467 fans inside the sold-out Delta Center in Salt Lake City. With a total of eleven fights on the card, the world-class fighting showcase was broadcast live on ESPN pay-per-view.

Monster Energy’s Gaethje (25-4) came to Salt Lake City after recently defeating Rafael Fiziev at UFC 286 in March. Going against 34-year-old Poirier (29-8) from Louisiana, Gaethje had a special score to settle: In 2018, the two collided in the Octagon, with Poirier earning a TKO defeat in the fourth round. Time for a rematch!

In the bout for the iconic BMF Belt, both fighters started by throwing heavy kicks to the body. During the explosive exchanges, Poirier looked to have the upper hand in Round 1 after opening a cut above Gaethje’s left eyebrow. But that was about to change…

Heading into the second round, Gaethje maintained the pressure while waiting for the right opening to land big. It arrived when Gaethje connected a hard overhand right that stunned Poirier. Without missing a beat, Gaethje proceeded to land a surgical left kick right between his opponent’s neck and chin that sent Poirier straight to the canvas, knocked out cold.

At 1:00 of Round 2, referee Herb Dean called a stop to the fight pronouncing Gaethje the winner by KO.

Celebrating the victory with a backflip off the cage, Gaethje said about settling the score at UFC 291:

“Unlike any other sport on earth, you rarely get a chance at redemption. We take a loss, and it just sits with us and eats away. We usually don’t get another chance so to come back and prove myself, I believed in myself the whole time.”

The epic knockout victory also earned Gaethje the UFC’s Performance of the Night bonus with a $50,000 payout. He has now won 20 of his 25 fights by knockout and is the second fighter to win the iconic BMF Belt after Jorge Masvidal.

The victory also puts Gaethje in line for a title shot in the 155-pound division. “You know what I want to do next. I want to fight for the world championship!” said Gaethje. “I want to prove I’m the best in the world. Win, lose, or draw, max effort is what you’re going to get from me. Luck and chance are a factor, and I’m willing to roll the dice any f-ing day.”

Also, the UFC 291 co-main event marked the Light Heavyweight division debut of 36-year-old Alex Pereira (8-2) from Brazil. Pereira is the UFC’s former Middleweight Champion and was looking to return to the winner’s bracket after losing the title to Israel Adesanya at UFC 287. Pereira’s opponent, 40-year-old Blachowicz from Cieszyn, Poland, also wanted a victory after earning a draw against Magomed Ankalaev in December 2022.

The co-main event fight pitted Pereira’s raw knockout power against Blachowicz’s grappling skills. Round 1 saw the Polish fighter control Pereira on the ground but unable to lock in a submission. Next, the Brazilian bounced back in the second round to land heavy shots while wearing out his opponent’s gas tank.

Round 3 proved very close as a worn-down Blachowicz found himself on the receiving end of Pereira’s punishing leg kicks. With his left leg visibly damaged, Blachowicz was forced to switch stances and absorbed a heavy left hook from Pereira before the bell. When all was said and done, the judges pronounced Pereira the winner by split decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28).

After his successful debut in the 205-pound division, Pereira had one clear message for fans. “I want to be champion of this division,” said Pereira in his post-fight interview. Stay tuned for more!

Justin Gaethje and Alex Pereira count amongst Monster Energy’s elite UFC athletes along with Kamaru Usman, Jon “Bones” Jones, Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone, Chris “The All American” Weidman, Rose Namajunas, Marlon Vera, Michael Chandler, Justin Gaethje, Jessica-Rose Clark, Valentina Shevchenko, Sean “Sugar” O’Malley, Brandon Moreno, Daniel Rodriguez, Alex Pereira, Punahele Soriano, Gilbert Burns, Giga “Ninja” Chikadze, Islam Makhachev, Johnny Walker, Beneil Dariush, Gaston Bolanos, Maycee “The Future” Barber, Brendan Allen, Jalin Turner, and Sean Strickland.

For more on Monster Energy’s MMA athletes, visit http://www.monsterenergy.com. Follow Monster Energy on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and TikTok.

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About Monster Energy

Based in Corona, California, Monster Energy is the leading marketer of energy drinks and alternative beverages. Refusing to acknowledge the traditional, Monster Energy supports the scene and sport. Whether motocross, off-road, NASCAR, MMA, BMX, surf, snowboard, ski, skateboard, or the rock and roll lifestyle, Monster Energy is a brand that believes in authenticity and the core of what its sports, athletes, and musicians represent. More than a drink, it’s the way of life lived by athletes, sports, bands, believers, and fans. See more about Monster Energy including all of its drinks at http://www.monsterenergy.com.



ASPS Global Survey Sheds Light on Cosmetic Surgery Practice and Regulation Challenges


ASPS Symbol of Excellence

ASPS remains dedicated to upholding high standards in plastic surgery nationally and internationally and investing in the education and safety of patients around the globe.

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) Global Leadership Forum (GLF) mission is to advance patient education and promote high standards in plastic surgery across the world through international partnerships. Earlier this year, the GLF surveyed plastic surgeons in Latin America, Europe, Africa, Asia and Oceania to assess the current state of cosmetic surgery practice and regulation in their countries and regions.

The survey was sent to 2,553 plastic surgeons across 22 countries and focused on understanding the impacts to the specialty from non-physicians and/or physicians across the globe who did not train in plastic surgery but perform plastic surgery procedures. Respondents were further asked to provide input on how such practices affect patient safety worldwide. The survey’s objectives also sought to identify knowledge of and implications for regulatory agencies in determining the scope of practice for physicians and nonphysicians in each country.

Key Findings from the survey include:

-Most countries have a regulatory entity, but some face regulations that vary by region or lack a regulatory agency entirely.

-Responses were mixed on whether the regulatory entities in their country specifically govern professional titles or advertising.

-Many respondents stated they believe there are no restrictions for noncertified plastic surgeons performing cosmetic surgery in their location.

-Most respondents have the opinion that injectables should be restricted to trained physicians and view fillers and neurotoxins as cosmetic medical treatments.

The results also underscore a widespread issue of patients consulting trained plastic surgeons after undergoing procedures by under-trained or non-medical professionals. Many note patients present with additional complications or harm resulting from procedures performed by undertrained or non-medical professionals in their country.

On the subject of advertising, responses indicated challenges plastic surgeons face in differentiating themselves from uncertified counterparts. Although these plastic surgeons indicate they use credentials and accreditations in social media messaging, the high-volume use of social media by untrained professionals and influencers continues to blur these lines in the patient audience worldwide.

ASPS remains dedicated to upholding high standards in plastic surgery nationally and internationally and investing in the education and safety of patients around the globe.

About ASPS: The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) is the largest organization of board-certified plastic surgeons in the world. Representing more than 11,000 physician members worldwide, the society is recognized as a leading authority and information source on cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery. ASPS comprises more than 92 percent of all board-certified plastic surgeons in the United States. Founded in 1931, the society represents physicians certified by The American Board of Plastic Surgery or The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada.

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Is it a healthy day in the neighborhood? Louisville institutions partner in Universal Basic Neighborhood research


Simmons College of Kentucky students conducted neighborhood asset mapping surveys in Louisville in 2021 as part of a pilot study. (Simmons College Photo)

A $500,000 grant from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation will fund an 18-month study to identify the features all neighborhoods should have in order to promote the health of residents.

What characteristics of a neighborhood contribute to the health of its residents – or reduce it?

The University of Louisville and Simmons College of Kentucky are embarking on a new project to answer that question and discover how changing a place can improve the health of its residents. A $500,000 grant from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation will fund an 18-month study to identify the features all neighborhoods should have in order to promote the health of all residents.

Researchers from Simmons’ Reverend Jesse Louis Jackson, Sr. Center for Racial Justice and UofL’s Christina Lee Brown Envirome Institute, along with urban studies expert Michael Emerson of Rice University and legal scholar Shavonnie Carthens of the University of Kentucky, will survey residents of two Louisville neighborhoods, review existing data on environmental factors that affect health and consider legal aspects of neighborhood development, all with the goal of defining a “universal basic neighborhood” (UBN). A universal basic neighborhood is one that has all the necessary community assets that help residents thrive in their place.

The most recent Health Equity Report from the Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness, published in 2017, highlights stark differences in morbidity and mortality of those living in different neighborhoods across the city. For example, in Louisville’s predominantly Black communities, life expectancy is as much as 12.6 years less than in the most affluent, predominantly white communities. Black babies born from 2011-2015 have a death rate 1.95 times higher than the Louisville Metro average and 2.31 times higher than white babies. Diabetes, heart disease and cancer rates vary by location, race and income.

“We live in one of the wealthiest countries in the world and we still have places where living conditions contribute to diseases that are entirely preventable,” said Ted Smith, director of the UofL Center for Healthy Air, Water and Soil, part of the Envirome Institute. “This work is about diagnosing and treating places so that the health benefits are shared by many.”

Most existing efforts to address health inequities focus on providing health resources to eligible individuals. This study instead looks for ways to improve health at the neighborhood level by providing resources that make it easier for residents to make healthy choices.

“Neighborhoods, no matter where they are, are not inherently bad or good. They’re just neighborhoods. However, one thing that makes neighborhoods different from each other is access to health-supportive resources,” said Nancy Seay, chair of the James R. L. Diggs Department of Sociology at Simmons. “We know that every neighborhood has a rich fabric of local resources that residents access, and we want to uncover these and promote their utilization. Everyone, no matter where they live, wants and deserves to enjoy good health and a long life. This project can be a game changer for the way we think about designing and supporting neighborhoods and their residents.”

The scope of the research

The research team, led by Seay and Smith, will assemble evidence for place-based factors that are associated with good health, identify and map assets in two demographically distinct Louisville neighborhoods, examine the history of civic investment in Louisville and determine how to develop and implement city policy that supports health.

In the same vein as historic efforts to ensure clean drinking water and waste removal for entire communities, the UBN project will assess and rank factors that contribute to longer, healthier lives, such as opportunities for exercise and recreation, greenness and access to healthy food and transportation. This project approaches health equity with the idea that it is more efficient to invest in resources that benefit the health of all residents of underserved neighborhoods than in health interventions for individuals.

In the first stage of the project, set to start in September, Seay will lead work to map assets of Louisville’s Crescent Hill and California neighborhoods. Students in her Participatory Action Research class at Simmons will conduct door-to-door surveys, interviews and focus groups in those neighborhoods to reveal how residents of those communities find good health, what aspects of their environment they believe contribute to health and how empowered they feel to make changes. They also hope to identify important assets related to the specific interests and culture of those living in the neighborhoods that have not been studied previously. UofL students also may take the class through a reciprocal agreement with Simmons.

At UofL, Smith will lead a review of published studies that can help justify components of a UBN and provide criteria for weighting those components. Factors evaluated will include those that contribute to disease and those that promote health, such as access to parks, forms of transit and the variety of educational, recreational and entertainment venues.

Carthens, a legal scholar at the UK’s J. David Rosenberg College of Law and formerly at UofL’s Brandeis School of Law, will delve into the deep drivers of policies that must be reformed in order to achieve an optimal neighborhood environment. She will identify the legal framework required to support the public provision of a UBN and sectors of society best positioned to provide these resources.

The project also includes Emerson, Chavanne Fellow in Religion and Public Policy at Rice University’s Baker Institute and co-founder of Rice’s Kinder Institute for Urban Research.

At the project’s completion, the team expects to have a “playbook” that will assist communities in defining their own neighborhood needs and outline steps toward implementing the plan.

For more information:

Residents of the California and Crescent Hill neighborhoods who are interested in participating in surveys or focus group interviews for the project may contact Patricia Reeves at patricia.reeves@simmonscollegeky.edu.

Community Partners who are interested in learning more about the project and opportunities for collaboration may contact Lauren Anderson at lauren.anderson@louisville.edu.

Project updates will be shared on social media at Simmons College and the Christina Lee Brown Envirome Institute.

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CMI Media Group Launches Nth Degree Podcast Focusing on Innovation, Trends, and Technologies in Health and Media


“The Nth Degree podcast offers an additional way to bring our valuable insights and knowledge to current and prospective clients, who depend on our strategic thought leadership for their marketing decisions,” said Joe Warren, EVP, Growth.

Healthcare communications specialist CMI Media Group, a WPP company (NYSE: WPP), has expanded its thought leadership offerings to healthcare brands with the release of a new podcast. The Nth Degree podcast, which stems from the company’s popular video series, focuses on highlighting innovation, trends, and technologies in the health and media spaces.

The Nth Degree podcast, available on SoundCloud and the company’s website, has launched with 7 episodes. The episodes cover topics such as Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, inclusive media, ChatGPT, SXSW, and Point of Care. Future episodes will include a focus on social media and video trends, audience intelligence innovations, sustainability, and more. The Nth Degree podcast is hosted by Justin Freid, Chief Media & Innovation Officer, CMI Media Group, and Amanda Preto, Vice President, Marketing, CMI Media Group.

Thought leadership is a top priority at CMI Media Group. The Nth Degree podcast is an addition to a robust thought leadership catalog ranging from their Media Vitals™ research to The Scoop, the company’s award-winning daily briefing, timely written POVs on the latest trends, reports utilizing insights only CMI Media Group can provide, and more.

“The Nth Degree podcast offers an additional way to bring our valuable insights and knowledge to current and prospective clients, who depend on our strategic thought leadership for their marketing decisions,” said Joe Warren, EVP, Growth. “Through this podcast, we aim to bring together the best technology, data, and people in the industry to deliver unmatched intel for professionals in the health and media spaces.”

Marketers can listen, like and follow the Nth Degree podcast on SoundCloud to stay informed of the latest trends in media and technologies. Healthcare clients can subscribe to CMI Media Group’s other thought leadership, including The Scoop, by clicking here.

About CMI Media Group

CMI Media Group, a WPP company (NYSE: WPP, http://www.wpp.com), is a full-service media agency focused solely on health, wellness, and pharmaceutical marketing. CMI Media Group’s core offerings include Audience Strategy, Planning, Development, and Insights; Data and Analytics; Buying and Investment; and Direct Response and Customer Experience. As the leading media resource for the world’s top healthcare companies, CMI Media Group brings together leading technology, data, and talent to deliver seamless capabilities for clients. CMI Media Group has been recognized as a leader in DE&I, talent retention and employee development as well as one of the industry’s best places to work. To apply for a position within our teams visit https://www.cmimediagroup.com/careers

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Feeding Matters, Emory University and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta to Host Groundbreaking Consensus Summit on PFD and ARFID


Feeding Matters

“Feeding Matters is thrilled to partner with Emory University to host this summit, offering an unprecedented opportunity for leaders in eating and feeding disorders to collectively strive for improved outcomes for individuals with PFD and ARFID,” said Jaclyn Pederson, CEO of Feeding Matters.

Feeding Matters, a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the understanding and treatment of pediatric feeding disorder, is proud to announce its affiliation with Emory University, a renowned academic institution at the forefront of medical research, and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, the only freestanding pediatric health system in Georgia, for the upcoming Consensus Summit on Pediatric Feeding Disorder (PFD) and Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID).

This landmark event, scheduled for August 12th at Emory University’s Health Sciences Research Center, will bring together researchers and clinicians from the eating and feeding disorder worlds to collaborate and build consensus on the best methods for diagnosing and supporting individuals, both children and adults, who struggle with feeding.

The summit will be facilitated by Jaclyn Pederson, CEO of Feeding Matters, a dedicated advocate for children with feeding disorders, and Dr. Hayley Estrem, an accomplished Associate Professor in the School of Nursing at the University of North Carolina Wilmington. Dr. Estrem’s expertise lies in pediatric healthcare research, with a specific focus on pediatric feeding difficulties. Her primary research interests involve improving family-centered care for children. Inspired by her own child, Dr. Estrem has pursued a career in feeding research, making her a valuable contributor to facilitate the summit.

By fostering open dialogue and harnessing the collective expertise of the attendees, the summit aims to pave the way for innovative approaches that will transform the field of feeding and eating disorders and improve the lives of individuals facing these challenges.

Pediatric feeding disorder (PFD) and Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) are complex conditions that significantly impact the lives of children and adults alike. The lack of consensus in the field around these overlapping diagnoses has hindered progress in the identification, treatment, and support for those affected. This summit serves as a critical platform to address these challenges head-on, unite leading experts, and forge a path towards consistent communication, evidence-based practices and future research in the field.

Jaclyn Pederson, CEO of Feeding Matters, expressed her enthusiasm about the upcoming summit, saying, “Feeding Matters has always been dedicated to fostering collaboration and building consensus to advance the field of pediatric feeding disorder. We are thrilled to partner with Emory University to host this groundbreaking summit, offering an unprecedented opportunity for leaders in eating and feeding disorders to collaborate, exchange knowledge, and collectively strive for improved outcomes for individuals with PFD and ARFID. Both disorders can have a devastating impact on families and the individuals themselves, creating havoc on social relationships and gatherings while burdening them with immense financial and emotional struggles. This summit represents a beacon of hope for parents looking to support their loved ones as well as a significant step forward in fostering a shared vision of progress and innovation in the field,” Pederson concluded.

William Sharp, PhD, a professor of pediatrics at Emory University, and director of Children’s Multidisciplinary Feeding Program, and whose expertise as a leading figure in both the feeding and eating disorder communities makes him a driving force in both arenas, shared his perspective on the significance of this event. “The summit comes at a crucial time in our field. We have the potential to build a foundation to establish clarity and guidelines that could revolutionize our approach to diagnosis and support,” said Dr. Sharp. “This meeting will bring together the leaders from various disciplines to foster a rich environment for collaboration and innovation that could lead to groundbreaking advancements to enhance our ability as clinicians to address the unique needs of all individuals with feeding disorders.”

Feeding Matters’ long-standing commitment to consensus building and collaboration has been instrumental in driving progress in the field of pediatric feeding disorder. This summit stands as a testament to the organization’s unwavering dedication to empowering healthcare professionals, researchers, and families through knowledge exchange and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Visit Feeding Matters’ resource page: PFD and ARFID as well as their Family Support Page. Read relevant blog topics like: Accurately Diagnosing PFD and ARFID or PFD, ARFID or Both or take the quick and easy Feeding Matters Infant and Child Feeding Questionnaire© for a simple support tool to take to your next pediatrician appointment if you are worried about your child’s feeding.

For media inquiries and interview requests, please contact:

Media Contacts:

Stephanie Sanstead, Public Relations Director

Feeding Matters

stephanie@communicadenceco.com

602-476-9997

About Feeding Matters

For kids with pediatric feeding disorder (PFD), every bite of food can be painful, scary, or simply impossible to swallow, potentially impeding nutrition, development, growth, and overall well-being. Yet, there is no functional system of care for PFD locally, nationally, or internationally. That’s why Feeding Matters is dedicated to creating a world where children with pediatric feeding disorder will thrive. Established in 2006, Feeding Matters is the first organization in the world uniting the concerns of families with the field’s leading advocates, experts, and allied healthcare professionals to ignite unprecedented change to the system of care through advocacy, education, support, and research – including a stand-alone diagnosis, the International Pediatric Feeding Disorder Conference, and the Infant and Child Feeding Questionnaire. In 2021, Feeding Matters reached nearly 200,000 individuals in 50 states and 143 countries through their programs and website. To learn more about pediatric feeding disorder, visit feedingmatters.org or follow us on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube at @FeedingMatters.

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New Locally-Owned Dermatology Practice, Bliss Dermatology, Opens To Serve Venice And Englewood


Dr. Michelle Pennie of Bliss Dermatology, with offices in Venice, FL and Englewood, FL

“I am thrilled to launch my new practice at Bliss Dermatology, where we help patients feel better about their skin.”

Bliss Dermatology, a new locally-owned, woman-owned dermatology practice, is now open to serve patients at two locations in Venice and Englewood.

315 Nokomis Avenue South

Venice, FL 34285

941-477-4007

Monday to Thursday, 8:30am – 5:00pm    

699 South Indiana Avenue

Englewood, FL 34223

941-548-2550

Monday to Thursday, 8:30am – 5:00pm

Bliss Dermatology is owned by Dr. Michelle Pennie, who is well-known and respected as the founder of Paradise Dermatology. Dr. Pennie is a Board-Certified and fellowship-trained dermatologist who specializes in the Mohs Micrographic Surgery treatment of skin cancer and all aspects of medical and cosmetic dermatology. The full spectrum of Bliss Dermatology services, both medical and cosmetic, will be available in both locations.

“I am thrilled to launch my new practice at Bliss Dermatology, where we help patients feel better about their skin,” said Dr. Pennie. “We live in a world-class coastal destination famous for our warm climate and sunny beaches, but the Southwest Florida lifestyle exposes us to a greater risk for skin cancer, and I encourage our community to be vigilant with prevention, screenings, and treatment.”

Dr. Pennie is one of a few dermatologists on the West Coast of Florida who is Board-Certified and fellowship-trained in Mohs Micrographic Surgery. This procedure is the most effective and precise treatment for most types of skin cancer.

As of 2023, Dr. Pennie has been consecutively honored with the SRQ Magazine Top Doctors Award in Dermatology. The award is given to Sarasota-area physicians who are nominated by peers with personal knowledge of their skill and expertise.

Bliss Dermatology will accept most health insurance plans. Please call 941-477-4007 or 941-548-2550 to schedule an appointment.

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About Dr. Michelle Pennie

Dr. Michelle Pennie earned her undergraduate degree at Dartmouth College before completing medical school and residency at Emory University. She also completed a year-long fellowship training with Dr. George Hruza at The Laser and Dermatologic Surgery Center in Chesterfield, Missouri, where she performed hundreds of Mohs Micrographic Surgery procedures and advanced reconstructions.

‍Dr. Pennie has served as an Adjunct Assistant Professor at the University of Florida, teaching Mohs surgery and advanced reconstruction techniques to medical students and residents. Dr. Pennie is also an active member of many national medical societies including the American Academy of Dermatology, the American College of Mohs Surgery, and the American Academy of Dermatologic Surgeons.

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Spaulding Academy & Family Services Unveils New Adaptive Playground


Spaulding Academy & Family Services Adaptive Playground Ribbon Cutting Event

“All children can challenge their motor skills, balance, and upper body strength in an inviting and inclusive space that will positively impact the lives of countless children and families for years to come.”

Spaulding Academy & Family Services recently held the grand opening of its state-of-the-art adaptive playground. This momentous occasion was celebrated with a ribbon cutting ceremony with the Lakes Region Chamber, marking a significant milestone for inclusive play opportunities in New England. Event attendees enjoyed fresh tacos and treats from food trucks, interacted with local fire departments who brought their trucks, savored lemonade from a student-run lemonade stand, received face painting, and more.

The new adaptive playground at Spaulding Academy & Family Services is one of the largest in the region with over 10,300 square feet of play area. With careful consideration and expertise from Spaulding occupational therapists, physical therapists, teachers, residential staff, and facilities team, the entire Spaulding Family worked together with our partners Miracle Recreation and Pettinelli & Associates to build a playground that would be inclusive and fun for everyone.

“We are thrilled to unveil our new adaptive playground, which embodies the critical work we do at Spaulding Academy & Family Services,” said Todd Emmons, President & CEO of Spaulding Academy & Family Services. “We firmly believe that every child deserves a childhood, and with this playground, a child in a wheelchair can roll across the surface, access the swing set, and ride on a spinner. All children can challenge their motor skills, balance, and upper body strength in an inviting and inclusive space that will positively impact the lives of countless children and families for years to come.”

“I have been eagerly anticipating this day for a very long time,” said Michael Ventura, Board Chair of Spaulding Academy & Family Services. “It is disheartening to think that some children are unable fully participate on a traditional playground. That is why we have put in extensive work, planning, and patience to create a playground that is custom made to cater to the unique needs of the children at Spaulding. This playground is a testament to our unwavering commitment to inclusivity and ensuring that every child can experience the joy of play.”

To learn more about the Spaulding Academy & Family Services new adaptive playground, visit SpauldingServices.org/play.

ABOUT SPAULDING ACADEMY & FAMILY SERVICES

Spaulding Academy & Family Services is a leading provider of educational, residential, therapeutic and community-based programs and services for families, and children and youth with neurological, emotional, behavioral, learning or developmental challenges, including Autism Spectrum Disorder and those who have experienced significant trauma, abuse or neglect. Established in 1871 as the New Hampshire Orphans Home and School for Industry, Spaulding Academy & Family Services is the oldest child care organization in operation in the United States. It is a is a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) nonprofit that was formerly known as Spaulding Youth Center since 1958. Its scenic hilltop campus is located on over 500 acres in Northfield, NH and welcomes boys and girls from ages 4 to 22 from around the state of New Hampshire and beyond. In addition to programs provided on the Northfield campus, Spaulding’s community-based programs include foster family licensing, Individual Service Option (ISO) foster care, ISO in-home services, child health support services, and more for children ages 0 to 20 and their family. For information about Spaulding Academy & Family Services, visit http://www.SpauldingServices.org.

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GeoComm Announces Leadership Transition to New Chief Executive Officer


Leadership Transition

GeoComm, provider of Public Safety Location Intelligence®, announces a leadership transition, appointing Jeff Liebl as GeoComm’s next President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Jeff succeeds John Bryant who will transition to Chair of the GeoComm Board of Directors.

Jeff was hired as GeoComm’s President and Chief Operating Officer (COO) in the summer of 2022, bringing over 25 years of high-tech industry leadership and experience in technology, product management, marketing, sales, and executive leadership in both Minnesota and Silicon Valley. In the past year, Jeff has led several operational transformations within the organization and developed an appreciation for GeoComm and the public safety market.

John has served in a leadership position at GeoComm since 2013 when he was hired as President and CEO, succeeding GeoComm’s founder, Tom Grones, when he retired. Throughout the past 10 years, John has provided GeoComm with proven experience and focus, and he has successfully grown GeoComm to be the go-to company for Geographic Information Systems (GIS) solutions in the public safety industry. John will transition to Chair of the Board of Directors and will continue working closely with Jeff.

Tom Grones will transition within the Board of Directors from Board Chair to board member, continuing to provide governance. “The legacy of effective succession planning to ensure the continuity and growth of GeoComm is important to me,” said Tom. “It is exciting to see continued strong leadership with Jeff at the helm.”

As GeoComm is a Granite Company, Rick Bauerly, CEO of Granite Partners, will continue as a member of the board’s Governance Committee and work closely with Jeff and John to leverage Granite’s broader resources and help GeoComm reach its full potential in the decades to come.

“Leading GeoComm has been a rewarding experience, and it has provided a phenomenal opportunity for me to carry out my personal and professional values. We are grateful for Tom’s leadership as Board Chair and I am humbled that the board has nominated me to serve as the next Board Chair,” said John. “Since Jeff joined GeoComm he has demonstrated his vast experience launching new products, developing new markets, and leading high performing teams. I am excited for GeoComm’s future growth.”

“With my transition to GeoComm President and CEO, I feel privileged to continue collaborating with John to achieve the GeoComm mission of helping to save lives and protect property,” said Jeff. “I will ensure GeoComm’s Public Safety Location Intelligence Platform® empowers our customers with the right location data, on the right map, for the right people at the right time and the continued strategic, focused, and thoughtful leadership of GeoComm’s team.”

About GeoComm: GeoComm, provider of Public Safety Location Intelligence®, has a national reputation as a leading provider of public safety GIS systems. These systems route emergency calls to the appropriate 9-1-1 call center, map the caller’s location on a call taker or dispatcher map, and guide emergency responders to the scene of the accident on mobile displays within police, fire, and ambulance vehicles. Over the last 28 years, GeoComm has grown to serve local, regional, statewide, and military agencies in forty-nine states, helping keep more than 100 million people safe. Through the years our statewide NG9-1-1 GIS project footprint has expanded to include seventeen statewide projects across the country. More recently, GeoComm’s innovative solutions are enhancing emergency response situational awareness by empowering emergency responders with a visual representation of indoor spaces for key buildings in their response areas and by converting raw z-axis position measurements into a dispatchable location. To learn more about GeoComm and our Public Safety Location Intelligence offerings, visit http://www.geocomm.com.

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