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This week we will discuss Multi-Organ transplants with Zachary Colton.  Zach is 35 years old and recently underwent a successful 5 organ multivisceral intestinal transplant surgery at the Toronto General Hospital in his home country of Canada. The organs he received were: stomach, small intestine, colon, liver, and pancreas.   In 1954, the kidney was the first human organ to be transplanted successfully. Liver, heart and pancreas transplants were successfully performed by the late 1960s, while lung and intestinal organ transplant procedures were begun in the 1980s. ​From the mid-1950s through the early 1970s, individual transplant hospitals and organ procurement organizations managed all aspects of organ recovery and transplantation. If an organ couldn’t be used at hospitals local to the donor, there was no system to find matching candidates elsewhere. Many organs couldn’t be used simply because transplant teams couldn’t locate a compatible recipient in time.  ​Since that time UNOS was created in order to provide guidance to patients and physicians in the US with a goal of providing a more equitable base for individuals in need of transplanted organ(s). ​The United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) is a non-profit scientific and educational organization that administers the only Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN) in the United States, established (42 U.S.C. § 274) by the U.S. Congress in 1984 by Gene A. Pierce, founder of United Network for Organ Sharing. Located in Richmond, Virginia, the organization's headquarters are situated near the intersection of Interstate 95 and Interstate 64 in the Virginia BioTechnology Research Park. ​United Network for Organ Sharing is involved in many aspects of the organ transplant and donation process: Managing the national transplant waiting list, matching donors to recipients. Maintaining the database that contains all organ transplant data for every transplant event that occurs in the U.S. Bringing together members to develop policies that make the best use of the limited supply of organs and give all patients a fair chance at receiving the organ they need, regardless of age, sex, ethnicity, religion, lifestyle, or financial/social status. Monitoring every organ match to ensure organ allocation policies are followed. Providing assistance to patients, family members and friends. Educating transplant professionals about their important role in the donation and transplant processes. (CREDITS: Wiki) Educating the public about the importance of organ donation.

This week we will discuss Ectoparasites.  The CDC says: "Although the term ectoparasites can broadly include blood-sucking arthropods such as mosquitoes (because they are dependent on a blood meal from a human host for their survival), this term is generally used more narrowly to refer to organisms such as ticks, fleas, lice, and mites that attach or burrow into the skin and remain there for relatively long periods of time (e.g., weeks to months). Arthropods are important in causing diseases in their own right, but are even more important as vectors, or transmitters, of many different pathogens that in turn cause tremendous morbidity and mortality from the diseases they cause.  

Over 200 years ago Louis Pasteur was born in Dole, France. Among Pasteur's major contributions and their benefit to society, the most important is the heat treatment of foods and beverages to reduce spoilage and eliminate pathogens for consumers. Probably the greatest achievement of Pasteur was the process that bears the name of this famous scientist who perfected the technique: pasteurization. For liquids, this process does not involve boiling the product to sterility but simply applying just enough heat (ie, par-boiling) to 50–60°C for a specified period to reduce spoilage microbes and potential pathogens. Pathogenic microbes have a lower heat tolerance than most other bacteria. Recognizing that many individuals, from the highly educated to the peasantry, were aware of the effect, it took someone like Pasteur to formalize this knowledge into specific time-temperature standards to assure consistency.  Unpasteurized foods are sold even though they have not been treated with high temperatures. Foods that haven’t been pasteurized include:  raw milk some artisanal cheeses some unpasteurized versions of juices and meats Many food safety concerns and a high risk of foodborne illness are associated with eating unpasteurized foods, although there may be a few benefits. Still, evidence indicates that the health risks appear to outweigh any potential benefits in most cases. Here are the benefits and downsides of unpasteurized food products. Benefits of eating unpasteurized foods Unpasteurized food is more likely to retain its organoleptic properties and may sometimes have greater nutritional value. The term “organoleptic properties” refers to the food’s taste, appearance, and smell. Exposure to high temperatures during pasteurization not only kills harmful bacteria and viruses in foods. It may also negatively affect the nutritional quality, appearance, and flavor of the food. For instance, some research demonstrated that pasteurization reduced the protective antibodies and immune-supportive vitamin C and zinc in donor human milk.  However, other research shows that these nutrient losses in human milk are minor and that the benefits of pasteurization are greater than the risks.  Downsides of eating unpasteurized foods Unpasteurized foods are associated with the occurrence of foodborne illnesses from bacteria, such as Brucella, Cryptosporidium, Listeria monocytogenes, and antibiotic-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. In particular, scientific literature frequently mentions that unpasteurized milk and dairy products are particularly high risk foods and common causes of these foodborne illnesses.  These bacterial infections may last from days to weeks. Effects range from mild symptoms — like fever, diarrhea, vomiting, muscle aches, abdominal pain, and poor appetite — to severe outcomes like miscarriage and even death.  Unpasteurized foods present even greater health risks and are more dangerous to people with compromised immune systems, such as older adults, pregnant people, young children, and those with health conditions like cancer. Summary Unpasteurized foods are slightly more likely to retain natural tastes, appearances, flavors, and nutrients, but they are strongly associated with foodborne illnesses. Evidence indicates that the risks of consuming unpasteurized foods greatly outweigh the benefits, especially for immune-compromised people.  (CREDITS)

In this episode we are talking again with our audio editor Jack Scaro.  The topic again is: spontaneous pneumothorax, or collapsed lung. Spontaneous pneumothorax is an abnormal condition of the lung characterized by the collection of gas in the pleural space between the lungs and the chest wall. This condition occurs without an obvious etiology and can be classified as either primary or secondary. Patients may present with symptoms such as tachycardia and dyspnea. The diagnosis is based on clinical suspicion and can be confirmed with imaging.  Jack had this condition which surprised everyone since he was a healthy 20 year old with no risk factors except.... you'll have to listen to this week's episode to find out what it is and whether you or a loved one could be at risk!

This week we will continue our coverage of Bile acid malabsorption (BAM),  a gastrointestinal disease. It’s a common cause of chronic diarrhea. When bile acids aren’t properly absorbed in your intestines, they build up, upsetting the chemical balance inside. Excess bile acids trigger your colon to secrete extra water, leading to watery stools. This week we will continue our coverage of Bile acid malabsorption (BAM),  a gastrointestinal disease. It’s a common cause of chronic diarrhea. When bile acids aren’t properly absorbed in your intestines, they build up, upsetting the chemical balance inside. Excess bile acids trigger your colon to secrete extra water, leading to watery stools. Bile acid malabsorption (BAM) is often misdiagnosed as Irritable Bowel Syndrome or is overlooked in individuals with Crohn’s disease. Bile Acid Malabsorption happens when the small intestine is unable to direct bile acid back to the liver. This means that the body doesn’t absorb water properly and affects digestion. The condition results in what is known as Bile Acid Diarrhoea. How will a new test for Bile Acid Malabsorption be developed? Currently, the only test for bile acid malabsorption is the SeHCAT test which is expensive, time consuming and uses radiation. The team have developed a test which they believe will diagnose the condition more rapidly and cost effectively than the current test. For its initial testing phase, it will be used on stool (poo) samples, and in its second phase the research team will assess whether it can also guide treatment decisions on what dose should be given to individual patients. The aim of the study is to establish a better test for BAM, do the groundwork for a future study of the role of faecal bile acid measurements within the NHS, and use the data collected from this trial to prepare other studies to assist with the diagnosis and treatment of individuals with BAM. Why diagnose bile acid malabsorption? Chronic diarrhea is one of the most common reasons why people get referred to specialist gastroenterology clinics, and can account for as many as 1 in 20 referrals. Bile acid malabsorption is a major cause of chronic diarrhoea and is thought to affect up to 1 million people in the UK. As well as individuals with Crohn’s disease, as many as one in three people diagnosed with IBS with diarrhoea (IBS-D) may actually be experiencing BAM but the current gold standard SeCHAT test is only available in certain UK centres. It is also time consuming and costly. In 2012 the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence’s Diagnostic Advisory Group concluded that a new test for the diagnosis of BAM was needed. (credits: Diagnosing bile acid malabsorption - Bowel Research UK :Bowel Research UK )    

This week we will discuss Bile acid malabsorption (BAM),  a gastrointestinal disease. It’s a common cause of chronic diarrhea. When bile acids aren’t properly absorbed in your intestines, they build up, upsetting the chemical balance inside. Excess bile acids trigger your colon to secrete extra water, leading to watery stools. ​ What are bile acids? Bile is a substance your liver makes while filtering your blood. Your liver sorts waste products, such as toxins, dead blood cells and excess cholesterol into bile. Bile acids come from synthesizing these products together. The different acids in bile help to stabilize the lipids in the mix and keep them in a liquid form. Your liver sends bile through your bile ducts to your small intestine to help with digestion. Bile acids in your small intestine help break down fats for absorption. When that work is done, they are supposed to be reabsorbed themselves, returning to your circulation and then your liver to be recycled into bile again. ​ What is malabsorption? Malabsorption is any failure of your intestines to absorb all of the chemicals they’re meant to. Malabsorption can be a problem with your intestines themselves, or it may result from a chemical imbalance. For example, you may have too much or too little of a certain chemical for your intestines to absorb. ​ Who does bile acid malabsorption affect? BAM has been historically underdiagnosed due to a lack of accessible ways to test for it. But studies now show that at least 30% of those diagnosed with functional diarrhea disorders may have BAM. Functional disorders are those that have no apparent cause and are likely to go undetected during a medical examination, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). BAM is seen in people with conditions such as: Microscopic colitis. Crohn disease. HIV-related enteritis. Diarrhea that persists after a bacterial infection. Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. It can also happen in people who receive certain medical treatments including: Surgical bypass or resection of the ileum, the last section of the small intestine. Gallbladder removal (cholecystectomy). Radiation therapy, especially in the abdominal-pelvic region. Chemotherapy. Metformin, a treatment for type 2 diabetes. ​ What are the symptoms of bile acid malabsorption? Typical symptoms include: Watery diarrhea. Frequent bowel movements. Painful stomach cramps. Urgency and difficulty holding bowel movements in. Some people also have: Abdominal bloating. Gas and gas pain. Steatorrhea (fatty stools.) Indigestion. Long-term symptoms can include: Dehydration. Fatigue. Headaches. Dizziness. Nausea. Weight gain. Weight loss. About half of people have constant symptoms, and the other half only report occasional symptoms. What causes bile acid diarrhea? The symptoms of bile acid malabsorption — primarily, bile acid diarrhea, or BAD — result from the buildup of bile acids in your colon, where food waste turns to poop. Normally, 95% of the bile acids in your small intestine are reabsorbed in the last segment (the ileum) before passing on to your colon. When too many are left over, however, they pass into your large intestine with the rest of the waste. Bile acids in your colon irritate the mucous lining, triggering it to secrete extra fluid and speeding up the muscle contractions that move poop along. This causes frequent, urgent diarrhea and cramping. What causes bile acid malabsorption? What causes bile acids to build up in your intestines is another question. Researchers have classified the possible causes of BAM into four different types. Sometimes they classify BAM as either primary or secondary. ​Primary BAM is caused by your liver overproducing bile acids (types 2 and 4.) ​Secondary BAM is caused by damage to your small intestine due to disease, surgery or radiation treatment (types 1 and 3.) Type 1 BAM is caused by a problem with your ileum itself. This is considered true malabsorption, because the problem begins at absorption stage of the bile acid cycle. You may have type 1 BAM if you’ve had the last part of your small intestine surgically removed, altered or bypassed to treat another condition. Certain diseases, such as Crohn’s disease, and treatments such as radiation therapy can also damage the ileum. Significant damage impairs its ability to absorb. ​Type 2 BAM has sometimes been called “idiopathic,” which means that it happens spontaneously or for unknown reasons. However, current research suggests that it's a problem with the chemical signaling between your intestines and your liver. This signaling is what normally regulates your bile acid cycle (enterohepatic circulation.) Chemicals in your blood signal when your liver should produce and deliver more bile acids and when it’s time to stop, reabsorb and recycle them. But with type 2 BAM, your liver doesn't get the memo to stop. So, it keeps sending bile acids — too many for your ileum to absorb. ​Type 3 BAM is caused by gastrointestinal diseases that can affect your ileum along with other parts of your digestive system. These include celiac disease, chronic pancreatitis and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO). ​Type 4 BAM is caused by excessive bile acid production as a side effect of taking Metformin.

This week we will discuss a Veteran's hesitancy to receive healthcare at the government hospital system known as Veterans Administration or "VA".  Although many veterans may share the concern over receiving care through a government agency due to the medical care they got while in training or active duty; i.e. sucrettes and tylenol being the standard of care when Jean Marie and I were in training. Our guest, Mark Frerichs, has different reasons to question the quality of care. Mark, a Navy veteran who continued working as a contractor post-war in Afghanistan.  It was during his work after the war that created a hesitancy in trusting anything related to the government.   ​ Mark Randall Frerichs (born July 13, 1962) is an American civil engineer and former US Navy diver who disappeared in Afghanistan in January 2020 and was later confirmed to be captured by the Haqqani network, a group closely aligned with the Taliban. In September 2022, Frerichs was released by the Taliban-led government of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan in exchange for Bashir Noorzai. Frerichs is a director of International Logistical Support whose work had led him to visit Afghanistan multiple times since 2012.  He served in the United States Navy as a diver. ​https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTLL8pHkA/  https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTLL8aDP6/  Frerichs disappeared in Kabul, Afghanistan, on January 31, 2020. The Associated Press reported that US intelligence officials tracked Frerichs's cell phone and raided a village near where he disappeared, approximately a week after his disappearance. Although they rounded up individuals from that village, the raid proved unproductive. The next month, Newsweek magazine reported that officials had confirmed that Frerichs had been taken captive by the Haqqani network, a group closely aligned with the Taliban. Frerichs's sister, Charlene Cakora, questioned why the US government "signed a peace deal" with the Taliban in early February 2020 that did not include a provision for releasing her brother. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the lead agency of the Hostage Recovery Fusion Cell, issued a statement saying the cell was working to ensure "that Mark Frerichs and all Americans held hostage abroad are returned home." On May 10, 2020, the FBI offered a $1-million reward for information that helps lead to Frerichs's release or rescue. In addition, the Rewards for Justice Program offered a $5-million reward for information leading to his location. That same day, Taliban spokesmen asserted that they had conducted an inquiry of their subordinate and associated groups and confirmed they were not holding Frerichs. ​The New York Times reported Frerichs was still a captive on November 21, 2020, when Secretary of State Mike Pompeo traveled to Afghanistan to personally participate in peace negotiations with the Taliban. They reported it was unknown whether Pompeo raised Frerichs's captivity as an issue during the talks. ​On April 1, 2022, a video was released showing Frerichs pleading for help. Following the release of Safi Rauf, an American aid worker who was held captive by the Taliban between December 2021 and April 2022, the US State Department began an attempted inquiry into the release of Frerichs. The inquiry did not result in substantial headway in brokering Frerichs' release. Frerichs's family was a part of the Bring Our Families Home campaign. ​On September 19, 2022, Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi told reporters in Kabul that his government and a US delegation swapped prisoners at the Afghan capital's airport. Frerichs was exchanged for Bashir Noorzai. (credits: Mark Frerichs - Wikipedia)

In this episode we discuss adrenal insufficiency  You can have either primary, secondary, or tertiary adrenal insufficiency. Primary adrenal insufficiency is also called Addison’s disease. When you have this type, your adrenal glands are damaged and can’t make the cortisol you need. They also might not make enough aldosterone. Secondary adrenal insufficiency is more common than Addison’s disease. The condition happens because of a problem with your pituitary gland, a pea-sized bulge at the base of your brain. It makes a hormone called adrenocorticotropin (ACTH). This is the chemical that signals your adrenal glands to make cortisol when your body needs it. If your adrenal glands don’t get that message, they may eventually shrink.  This is the type our guest on this week's episode is dealing with. Tertiary is due to hypothalamic disease and a decrease in the release of corticotropin releasing hormone (CRH). Causes can include brain tumors and sudden withdrawal from long-term exogenous steroid use (which is the most common cause overall) The most common cause of Addison’s disease today is an autoimmune problem, when your immune system malfunctions and attacks and damages your own body, in this case, your adrenal glands.

Have you ever wondered "what would happen if you or a family member had a medical emergency while using public transportation"  Today we feature Bill H. who had a cardiac event after boarding a Chicago Metra train and the two bystanders that weren't about to let these be his LAST train ride!   Automated external defibrillators can help save lives during sudden cardiac arrest. However, even after training, remembering the steps to use an AED the right way can be difficult. In order to help keep your skills sharp, we've created a quick step-by-step guide that you can print up and place on your refrigerator, in your car, in your bag or at your desk. This way, you can review the AED steps any time, at your convenience, and keep them fresh in your memory. How to Use An AED These AED steps should be used when caring for a non-breathing child aged 8 or older who weighs more than 55 pounds, or an adult. After checking the scene and ensuring that the person needs help, you should ask a bystander to call 911 for help, then: 1.  Complete the CHECK and CALL steps 2.  As soon as an AED is available, turn it on and follow the voice prompts 3.  Remove clothing and attach pads correctly Remove all clothing covering the chest. If necessary, wipe the chest dry Place one pad on the upper right side of the chest Place the other pad on the lower left side of the chest, a few inches below the left armpit Note: If the pads may touch, place one pad in the middle of the chest and the other pad on the back, between the shoulder blades 4.  Plug the pad connector cable into the AED, if necessary 5.  Prepare to let the AED analyze the heart’s rhythm Make sure no one is touching the person Say, “CLEAR!” in a loud, commanding voice 6.  Deliver a shock, if the AED determines one is needed Make sure no one is touching the person Say, “CLEAR!” in a loud, commanding voice Push the “shock” button to deliver the shock 7.  After the AED delivers the shock, or if no shock is advised, immediately start CPR, beginning with compressions

This week we are speaking with Dani, AKA, Stoned Zebra. It took almost 7 years of her health declining after giving birth, until she finally received her EDS diagnosis. She was initially misdiagnosed with Lupus, Fibromyalgia, Neuropathy, or chronic pain syndrome.  Her gastroparesis, symptoms (bloating, nausea, early satiety, severe constipation, weight loss, dehydration, belching, belly pain) began July 2022, and after a ton of aggressive testing, she was diagnosed in May 2023.  EDS just tacks on chronic pain, joint instability and other comorbidities like POTS, MCAS, and OH that she also developed. She currently is primarily tube fed, via GJ. She will soon have separate stomas placed due to EDS complications. If you would like to follow her rare disease journey, send a follow request @stonedzebra along with a message of where you found her page! Her rare journey is only available to friends on TikTok, she keeps her circle small. If you’d like to follow and see her handmade gifts/online store, she is on TikTok Shop at SZ Creations, and @stndzebracreations.

This week we will discuss a topic that is of concern for millions of people: "Long Covid" and our guest this week is Grace Miller.  Grace is 20 years old, and lives in Iowa. Currently attending college, where she is president of the honor society and finishing up her gen eds. She plans on pursuing a degree in Communication Disorders and become a speech pathologist. Some of her hobbies include crocheting, singing, playing the piano, and learning.  Some people who have been infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 can experience long-term effects from their infection, known as Long COVID or Post-COVID Conditions (PCC). Long COVID is broadly defined as signs, symptoms, and conditions that continue or develop after acute COVID-19 infection. This definition of Long COVID was developed by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) in collaboration with CDC and other partners. ​People call Long COVID by many names, including Post-COVID Conditions, long-haul COVID, post-acute COVID-19, long-term effects of COVID, and chronic COVID. The term post-acute sequelae of SARS CoV-2 infection (PASC) is also used to refer to a subset of Long COVID. (Credits: CDC)

Continuing a mini-series on obesity, we welcome once again Dr. Ifland.   She founded the online Addiction Reset Community (ARC) in 2016, www.foodaddictionreset.com. The Facebook group, ‘Food Addiction Education’ (2014) and www.foodaddictionresources.com (2014) provide free support.  Reset Week  is the first online live video program for withdrawal (2018).  ARC Manager Training is a program training future Addiction Reset Community leaders (2020). Dr. Ifland is the lead author of the first scholarly description of processed food addiction and definition of addictive foods. Dr. Ifland earned her PhD in addictive nutrition at Union Institute and University (2010); her MBA at Stanford Business School (1978) and her BA in Economics and Political Science at Oberlin College (1974). She currently resides in Seattle. Social Media links:  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/1806154526275515 ​Twitter  https://twitter.com/JoanIfland ​Instagram  https://www.instagram.com/foodaddictionreset/  

This week we will discuss the obesity problem for children in the US.  Our guest, once again, is Dr. Joan Ifland.  Dr Ifland has been creating breakthroughs in recovery from food addiction from 1999 with her first popular book to 2018 when her textbook, Processed Food Addiction: Foundations, Assessment, and Recovery was released by CRC Press.   ​ She founded the online Addiction Reset Community (ARC) in 2016, www.foodaddictionreset.com. The Facebook group, ‘Food Addiction Education’ (2014)  and  www.foodaddictionresources.com (2014) provide free support.  Reset Week  is the first online live video program for withdrawal (2018).  ARC Manager Training is a program training future Addiction Reset Community leaders (2020). Dr. Ifland is the lead author of the first scholarly description of processed food addiction and definition of addictive foods. Dr. Ifland earned her PhD in addictive nutrition at Union Institute and University (2010); her MBA at Stanford Business School (1978) and her BA in Economics and Political Science at Oberlin College (1974). She currently resides in Seattle. Social Media links:  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/1806154526275515 Twitter  https://twitter.com/JoanIfland Instagram   https://www.instagram.com/foodaddictionreset/    Childhood obesity is a complex disease with many contributing factors, on including genetics, eating patterns, physical activity levels, and sleep routines. About 1 in 5 American children has obesity. Compared to children with healthy weight, children with obesity are at a higher risk for asthma, sleep apnea, bone and joint problems, type 2 diabetes, and risk factors for heart disease such as high blood pressure.  "Childhood obesity continues to rise around the world, and the World Health Organization has called it “one of the most serious public health challenges of the 21st century.” Yet the prevalence of childhood obesity appears to vary across countries. Island nations in the Pacific, such as Nauru and the Cook Islands, appear to have the highest obesity rates among children 5 to 19, but the countries Ethiopia and Burkina Faso appear to have the lowest rates. The number of obese or overweight children 5 and younger climbed from 32 million globally in 1990 to 41 million in 2016, according to WHO data. If current trends continue, the number of overweight or obese children in that age group could increase to 70 million by 2025." (CNN Health News)

Skilled Nursing care, also known as Post-Acute Rehabilitation, is for those who need short-term care following an injury, surgery, or illness. The goal with this level of care is to successfully transfer patients from hospital to home, or senior living community, by providing the tools and resources for each phase of recovery. A stay at a skilled nursing, rehabilitation, and post-acute care center is meant to be a transitional period to help patients recover and return to their everyday lives. Our Co-Host Ron had shoulder surgery recently and needed this type of care until he could regain use of his "good-arm".  As you probably know from an episode we did (again with Ron as the guest) very early in our podcasting to discuss his life with a disability.  You see, Ron was hit be a motor vehicle as a child and lost the use of one of his arms. You can understand how rehabbing after shoulder surgery would be impossible without help!  He is here to explain that process, and I'd like to report he is now back to his version of 100%!  He is even going to the Vegas-Shoot in a couple of weeks to compete once again in target archery.

This week we will discuss the confidence building in children with returning guest, Casey Hersch!   ​ ​Casey Hersch is a licensed clinical social worker, psychotherapist, author, Latin ballroom dancer, health journalist, and animal advocate. She uses holistic and resilience-based models to help children and families cope with trauma, stress, and illness. ​A Regent’s scholar and CSU Chico’s social worker of the year, she has devoted her career to helping children, parents, families, and communities build resilience and minimize the effects of stress, trauma, and adverse childhood experiences throughout the lifespan. During her childhood, Casey witnessed the toll of trauma and stress on her health. She has spent most of her adult life overcoming Crohn’s disease (autoimmune) and mental illness (anxiety), which further motivates her to create resources for children. Her passion for giving voice to the health benefits of animal rescue and pet companionship granted her recognition for excellence by the Cat Writer’s Association. Her work is published in a variety of venues. Casey’s diverse clinical experience as a psychotherapist, child custody investigator, educator, and community organizer inspired I Am Pawso. All too often Casey sees toddlers, tweens, teenagers, and adults who missed out on early interventions. These mental health resources in schools, homes, and communities can reduce the long-term consequences of stress and trauma, such as chronic illness, mental illness, anger and behavior management issues, depression, and violence. Casey’s evidence-based philosophy is simple: When we provide children the lessons and resources they need to build resilience, emotional intelligence, and healthy brain neural pathways, we give them the best opportunities to thrive. I Am Pawso is Casey’s gift to children: An intervention providing them the tools and confidence they need to live healthy and successful lives. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​       I Am Pawso is a family labor of love. Casey’s rescue cat, Pawso, is the main character. Her husband, Scott, illustrated the book by taking real photographs of Pawso. When Casey is not writing, she is Latin Ballroom dancing, serving her community, and playing with her cats, Pawso and Samba.

This week we will discuss severe Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS).  Our guest is Galen Warden, the mom to six adult children, one being her son James Strazza.  Galen is now a full time caregiver to James due to the severity of his disease.  Here are her words:  "James was a healthy young man until he very slowly, because of medical ignorance and poor advice, became weaker and sicker following a severe case of the Epstein Barr Virus when he was just 19. After a few years, he slowly lost his ability to drive, to stand in his kitchen and prepare food for himself, then to walk more than a few steps, to use an electric wheelchair, and finally, to even sit up if carried onto a commode. He’s been 100% bed bound for three years. What is this bizarre disease that so many medical doctors prefer to pass off as psychological, psychosomatic or self-inflicted? Myalgic Encephalomyelitis was, in the past, known only as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. An unfortunate name because it’s so easily dismissed as simple chronic fatigue, familiar to many with autoimmune diseases. ME/CFS is entirely different. It’s a disease not known, not taught, but not rare. Just rarely acknowledged, and more rarely understood.... ME appears to be a post-viral disease. The onset can be caused by Epstein Barr, Dengue Fever, Covid 19, and other viral illnesses. Now, research is so urgent because Long Covid is impacting thousands who are unaware of the potential that they could end up like James. Post-viral Covid could easily continue to progress to Severe ME/CFS if patients are not aware of how to manage their overwhelming weakness and fatigue. They must rest and never push themselves. They need the early support of their families to pick up the burden of making meals, driving them, helping them rest as much as possible. Because, if they don’t allow them to rest now, caring for them will become a very heavy burden. These patients, with their desperate families, their disbelieving caregivers and puzzled doctors, are why I’m compelled to add documenting our experience to my long list of weighty obligations."

This week we will discuss how to avoid toxins when cooking for a crowd.  The following comes straight from the CDC: ​ Prevent Food Poisoning During the Holidays Feasting with family is part of many holiday celebrations. Follow these tips to help prevent food poisoning, or foodborne illness, during the holidays. ​ Keep foods separated. Keep meat, chicken, turkey, seafood, and eggs separate from all other foods at the grocery store and in the refrigerator. Prevent juices from meat, chicken, turkey, and seafood from dripping or leaking onto other foods by keeping them in containers or sealed plastic bags. Store eggs in their original carton in the main compartment of the refrigerator. Cook food thoroughly. Use a food thermometer to make sure meat, chicken, turkey, seafood, and eggs have been cooked to a safe internal temperature to kill germs. Roasts, chops, steaks, and fresh ham should rest for 3 minutes after you remove them from the oven or grill. Keep food out of the “danger zone.” Germs can grow rapidly in the danger zone between 40°F and 140°F. After food is prepared, keep hot food hot and cold food cold. Refrigerate or freeze perishable food like meat, chicken, turkey, seafood, eggs, cut fruit, cooked rice, and leftovers within 2 hours (1 hour if food is exposed to temperatures above 90°F, such as in a hot car). The temperature in your refrigerator should be set at 40°F or below and the freezer at 0°F or below. Use pasteurized eggs for dishes containing raw eggs. Salmonella and other harmful germs can live on both the outside and inside of normal-looking eggs. Many holiday favorites contain raw eggs, including eggnog, tiramisu, hollandaise sauce, and salad dressings. Always use pasteurized eggs when making these and other foods made with raw eggs. Know that raw flour and eggs can have germs. Uncooked dough and batter made with flour or eggs can contain harmful germs, such as E. coli and Salmonella. This includes dough or batter for cookies, cakes, pies, biscuits, pancakes, tortillas, pizza, or crafts. Some companies and stores offer edible cookie dough made with heat-treated flour and pasteurized eggs or no eggs. Read the label carefully to make sure the dough is meant to be eaten without baking or cooking. Thaw your turkey safely. Thaw frozen turkey in the refrigerator, in a sink of cold water (change the water every 30 minutes), or in the microwave. Do not thaw turkey or other foods on the counter. A turkey must thaw at a safe temperature to prevent harmful germs from growing rapidly. Learn more about preparing turkey safely. Wash your hands with soap and water during these key times when you are likely to get and spread germs: Before, during, and after preparing food Before eating food After feeding pets After using the toilet After changing diapers or cleaning up a child who has used the toilet After touching garbage Before and after caring for someone who is sick Before and after treating a cut or wound After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing   Some family and friends may be at higher risk for serious food poisoning. Take steps to help prevent them from getting sick this holiday season by choosing safer food options for Adults over 65 Children under 5 Pregnant people People with weakened immune systems

This week we are talking about a rare condition, FOXG1.  This  syndrome is a rare genetic neurodevelopmental disorder caused by a mutation in the FOXG1 gene. FOXG1 gene is one of the first and most important genes for early brain development and when impaired, causes cognitive and physical disabilities as well as medical complexities including epilepsy. Every child born with FOXG1 syndrome is unique as FOXG1 manifests as a spectrum where symptoms and severity vary between individuals. Our patient data shows characteristics of children with FOXG1 syndrome include: nonverbal, non-ambulatory, experience seizures, feeding problems, cortical vision impairment, movement disorders, and developmental delays. Less-severely-affected FOXG1 children often present with (ASD) Autism Spectrum Disorder as FOXG1 is an autism related gene. FOXG1 syndrome is found equally among both females and males and is geographically more prevalent where diagnostic testing is more advanced. (credits: The FoxG1 Foundation) Our guest is a mother to a child with FoxG1, Ilissa Reich.  Ilissa is a former fashion executive who transformed her career into being a fierce advocate for families of children with special needs. When her now-3-year-old son, Eli, was diagnosed with FOXG1 Syndrome, a rare brain disorder with no cure, she spun into action and co-founded Believe in a Cure (webelieveinacure.org), a 501(c)(3) non-profit foundation working to develop a treatment for FOXG1. Founded in 2019, Believe has raised millions of dollars and funded over 40 research and development projects around the world. long the way, the foundation has partnered with preeminent institutions ranging from the National Institutes of Health to Harvard, MIT, and Tel Aviv University, to biotechnology companies in Europe, Asia, and the United States. ​Renowned scientists from industry and academia serve on the scientific advisory board of the foundation, and several notable leaders serve on the foundation’s lay advisory council, including former U.S. senators Joe Lieberman and Paul Kirk, the former CEO of Staples Ron Sargent, mediation czar Ken Feinberg, and many more. This journey has opened Ilissa’s eyes to the experiences of countless other families who struggle each day, and despite her own anguish, Ilissa endeavored to create a platform for mothers of kids with special needs to build community and offer support. ​She has appeared on the Today show, in People magazine, and a host of other outlets profiling her efforts. A native Long Islander, Ilissa previously worked in fashion at notable brands Tibi, Free People, Splendid, and Alternative Apparel. She studied business in college at The George Washington University. She lives in Port Washington with her husband, Scott, and their three children. ​ When asked: 'What has enabled you to be successful?' she responded- “I always aspire to be a good role model for my children. I want to be someone they’re proud of.”

This week we will discuss M-RNA vaccines.  Our guest is Thomas VanCott, PhD.  Thomas VanCott is currently the Chief Scientific Officer for Combined Therapeutics, a Boston based biotech company developing targeted mRNA therapies.  Prior to this he served as the Chief Technology and Strategy Officer for Catalent Cell & Gene Therapy, a global CDMO manufacturing viral vectors for gene and cell therapies as wells as plasmid DNA & mRNA platforms based in Baltimore, MD.  He was responsible for strategically enhancing CMC services to meet the market demand of increasingly complex gene and cell therapy products as well as leading the product development and internal R&D teams.  Prior to this, he was the CEO for 10 years at a Maryland-based CMO/CRO (ABL) where he was responsible for the strategic international growth of the company.  He has been involved in biologics product development for over 25 years.  He has a PhD in physical chemistry and started his career as a Captain in the US Army stationed at Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR) studying and developing HIV vaccines for international deployment from initial construction through preclinical development, GMP manufacturing and clinical development. ​Vaccines help prevent infection by preparing the body to fight foreign invaders (such as bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens). All vaccines introduce into the body a harmless piece of a particular bacteria or virus, triggering an immune response. Most vaccines contain a weakened or dead bacteria or virus. However, scientists have developed a new type of vaccine that uses a molecule called messenger RNA (mRNA) rather than part of an actual bacteria or virus. Messenger RNA is a type of RNA that is necessary for protein production.  Once cells finish making a protein, they quickly break down the mRNA. mRNA from vaccines does not enter the nucleus and does not alter DNA. ​mRNA vaccines work by introducing a piece of mRNA that corresponds to a viral protein, usually a small piece of a protein found on the virus’s outer membrane. (Individuals who get an mRNA vaccine are not exposed to the virus, nor can they become infected with the virus by the vaccine.) By using this mRNA, cells can produce the viral protein. As part of a normal immune response, the immune system recognizes that the protein is foreign and produces specialized proteins called antibodies. Antibodies help protect the body against infection by recognizing individual viruses or other pathogens, attaching to them, and marking the pathogens for destruction. Once produced, antibodies remain in the body, even after the body has rid itself of the pathogen, so that the immune system can quickly respond if exposed again. If a person is exposed to a virus after receiving mRNA vaccination for it, antibodies can quickly recognize it, attach to it, and mark it for destruction before it can cause serious illness. Like all vaccines in the United States, mRNA vaccines require authorization or approval from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) before they can be used. Currently vaccines for COVID-19, the disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus, are the only authorized or approved mRNA vaccines. These vaccines use mRNA that directs cells to produce copies of a protein on the outside of the coronavirus known as the “spike protein”. Researchers are studying how mRNA might be used to develop vaccines for additional diseases.  (credits: Medline Plus)

This week we will discuss how important it is to continue masking and keeping away from crowds as a chronically ill or immunocompromised person.  Our guest today is Veronica Hanway.  Immunocompromised individuals are not optimally protected by COVID-19 vaccines and potentially require additional preventive interventions to mitigate the risk of severe COVID-19. Veronica, a Latina mother and first generation Geography PhD student in her second year, is 35 years old and has had a lifetime of chronic migraines. With her first migraine at just three years old, she is no stranger to migraine symptoms, MRIs, CTs, neurology appointments, and treatments.  She is an advocate for public health and community care during the ongoing SARS CoV 2 (Covid 19) pandemic. Veronica is committed to protecting her immunocompromised child and her high risk family while also continuing her National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship doctoral studies. Her passions include spending time with her family, advocating for safer spaces for disabled, high risk, immunocompromised, and BIPOC communities, learning how people have adapted to avoiding Covid infections and reinfections, and how people have created Coviding communities. She loves painting, singing, having fun, and reading with her son and partner. She is committed to helping others know that they aren't alone in navigating health issues while the effects of climate change and pandemic rage on.