2012-03 Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness

Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness 2012

MARCH 2012

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Women’sHeart Hea l th

The Painkiller Addiction Epidemic

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33Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness 2012



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contributing writersConnie Hein, Heidi Kerr-Schlaefer, Logan Martinez,

Sarah Maurer, Marty Metzger, Corey Radman, Kay Rios, Graciela Sholander, Carl Simmons, Tracee Sioux,

Elissa Tivona

PhotograPhers Marcus Edwards, Brent Yoder

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2012 style MagazinesJanuary-Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness

Magazine and McKee Medical Center & North Colorado Medical Center Physician Directory

February-StyleMarch-Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness

April-StyleMay-Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness

June-StyleJuly-Northern Colorado Medical & WellnessMagazine and Poudre Valley Health System

Physician DirectoryAugust-Style

September-Women’s Health & Breast CancerOctober-Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness

November/December-Holiday Style

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The articles in this issue of Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness are presented for your general knowledge and are not a substitute for medical advice or treatment. If you have any questions or concerns about your health, please contact your doctor or healthcare provider.

Cyndi Gryboski, M.D., interventional cardiologist with the CardioVascular Institute at North Colorado Medical Center, explains the atypical signs women often present prior to a heart attack. Photography by Marcus Edwards.

on the cover:

10 Publisher’s Letter

12 Exploring the Specialty of General Surgery

18 Taking Care Of Your Heart

24 Above and Beyond to Save Lives

28 Promoting Prevention, Providing Peace of Mind

30 Painkiller Addiction Epidemic

34 Understanding Hepatitis

46 Gluten-Free Foods: Fad or Fabulous?

48 Cholesterol Treatments: Traditional and Non

54 Four Unexpected Sources of Nutrition

36 Improve Your Self Image at Local Med Spas

56 Mom’s Groups Offer Sympathetic Ear

56 Hidden Sugars Invade Snack Time

62 Must Love Dogs

65 Bruno’s Story

March 2012

Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness

48

MOM’S GrOUPS OFFErSYMPATHETIC EAr

MUST LOvE DOGS

56

62

34UNDErSTANDING HEPATITIS

contentS

PrOMOTING PrEvENTION, PrOvIDING PEACE OF MIND

IMPrOvE YOUr SELF IMAGE AT LOCAL MED SPAS

36

28

CHOLESTErOL TrEATMENTS: TrADITIONAL AND NON

58 Kid Friendly Events in Northern Colorado

55 Get Fit, Give Back Calendar

66

42 Stop the Progression of TMJ

Physician Spotlight: Gary Luckasen, M.D.His Heart is in Northern Colorado


Cholesterol Treatments: Traditional and Non

March 2012


Publisher’s letter

Free at Last

They say cats have nine lives and my 9-year old cat, Dyna, has survived another scary ordeal. Just before Labor Day weekend a car hit her. Luckily Fort Collins Veterinary Emergency and Rehabilitation Hospital was able to see her and diagnose her injury as a shattered femur. They referred her to the CSU Veterinary Teaching Hospital where they advised me that amputa-tion was a probability if the complicated surgery they recommended didn’t work.

Amazingly, the surgery was a success and Dyna’s leg is now held together with two metal plates and wire wrapped around the shattered bones. Amputation was averted, but Dyna’s [email protected]

recovery has been long and she has been limited to the confines of a large dog crate. After six months of strict confinement, she will finally be released to the freedom of my home. It has been a long ordeal for both of us but I feel so fortunate to have access to first-class veterinary emergency facilities and the prestigious CSU teaching hospital. It is because of their collective care, tenacity, knowledge and innovative skills that Dyna did not have to endure amputation. I am so grateful for their knowledge and genu-ine concern for her welfare. She is a beautiful cat and a special member of my family. Soon she will be enjoying a normal cat’s life again.

Another inspiring pet story found in this issue is about a Saint Bernard’s journey from paralysis back to good health. Read “Bruno’s Story” in the pet section; he won the hearts of veterinarians and animal lovers who provided him the love, therapy and care to bring him around to a full recovery.

We are excited about a fresh new addition to this issue called Family Focus. We have many readers with young families, so we are adding articles of interest for them in the March, May, July, August and Holiday magazines. Look in this section for articles, brief tidbits, current activities and events to enjoy with your family.

Over the years, heart disease in men has been well studied, written about and treated. It has only been in recent years that heart disease in women has been brought to the attention of physicians and the public. Read “Taking Care of Your Heart” to learn about some of the

ambiguous signs of heart attacks in women, the experiences of two young women with heart disease and the WomenHeart support programs available at PVHS and NCMC.

As we all know, our cholesterol levels are an important component in assessing potential car-diovascular risk. Read “Cholesterol Treatments: Traditional and Non” to understand several viewpoints on how important those numbers are and options to get them to desirable levels.

We’ve often heard about the importance of eating healthy to prevent disease; read “Four Unexpected Sources of Nutrition” to learn about four delicious guilt-free foods that have great nutritional value.

Another spin on nutrition is the booming gluten-free food industry. In “Gluten-Free Foods: Fad or Fabulous?” gain insight on the reasons behind this diet, understand who needs to follow this protocol and even experiment with a delicious recipe for gluten-free mac ‘n’ cheese.

Enjoy reading these articles and others about health, wellness and the many outstanding professionals serving Northern Colorado. We are truly fortunate to have their expertise in our region.

Wishing each of you good health!



Surgical SpecialtyMeDIcAL

By Kay Rios

ExPLORING THE SPECIALTY OF GENERAL SURGERY

The term general surgery is a misnomer. Despite its name, it is a specialty where surgeons diagnose and treat a defined spectrum of diseases.

Jerry Collins, M.D., F.A.C.S., one of four part-ners at the Loveland Surgical Associates (LSA) and the director of Trauma Services at McKee Medical Center, says, “There’s a huge miscon-ception among the general public. People think general surgery is general practice but it is really the specialty within surgery. We’re specialists but we don’t have a sexy name.”

That’s because there’s not a specific anatomical body part related to the specialty, Dr. Collins says. “With a neurosurgeon, you know immediately the work is related to the brain or spinal cord. In the same way, urologists and orthopedic sur-geons are defined by their titles. We operate on the thyroid, parathyroid, blood vessels, breast, esophagus, stomach, small intestines, large intes-tines, liver, spleen and gall bladder. We also treat hernias and provide trauma surgery. You can’t come up with a name that describes all of that.”

Brad Keeler, M.D., F.A.C.S., agrees. “People

in medicine really know the value of a general surgeon but when you get outside the medical profession, you hear people reduce it all the time by saying, ‘Oh, you’re just a general surgeon.”

General surgeons undergo five years of spe-cialized training after medical school to develop the knowledge and technical skills related to the diagnosis, pre-operative, operative and postop-erative management of surgical problems in the following areas:

• Alimentary tract – esophagus, stomach, small bowel, large bowel

• Abdomen and its contents – dia-phragm, biliary tract, liver, pancreas, spleen

• Breast, skin and soft tissue • Vascular system – arteries and veins • Endocrine system – thyroid, parathyroid

glands, pancreas and adrenal glands • Comprehensive trauma management

Tom Blomquist, Ph.D., M.D., F.A.C.S., says, “We’re often called in to perform emergency surgery where we deal with everything from bleeding, infections, bowel obstructions and organ perforation.”

“Most people have the motor skills to per-form an operation but being a surgeon is about knowing when to operate, and knowing what works,” Dr. Collins says. “I could teach you how to remove an appendix but that wouldn’t make you a surgeon. That would make you a technician.”

Beyond the required technical proficiency, general surgeons have extensive clinical experi-ence with wound healing, infection, fluid man-agement, shock and resuscitation, immunology, antibiotic use and metabolism.

The variety is what drew Dr. Blomquist to the specialty of general surgery. “The attraction for me was that I got to cross over so many areas. We may be ‘just general surgeons’ but we oper-ate from head to toe.”

While all four partners at LSA are trained in every area of general surgery, they also share a commitment to offering the most advanced and up-to-date techniques within their specialty,

Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness 2011 13

including robotic surgery and incisionless surgery. To better understand the depth and breadth

of general surgery, the partners offer a quick tour of a few of the areas managed surgically by a general surgeon.

Hernias“There are so many types of hernias,”

Karin Schmidova, M.D., says. “An incisional hernia occurs at the site of a previous surgical incision on the abdomen. Another common one is an umbilical hernia. An inguinal hernia that occurs in the groin is the most common. There are also femoral hernias high in the thigh. Sometimes the inguinal and femoral hernias are even bilateral, occurring on both the left and right sides,” she explains. “A hernia is essentially a separation of the muscle in such a way that tissue comes out of the space where it belongs, into a space where it doesn’t belong. It’s like a bulge that forms in a worn tire. At a weak spot in the abdomen wall, a sac may fill with intestine or fat, push out and cause pain.”

Hernias don’t go away by themselves and can only be repaired surgically because if the intestine does become trapped in the hernia, serious problems can occur. The repair can be done with laparoscopic or open methods but the selection is case-specific. “It’s based on the type of hernia and a patient’s history,” Dr. Schmidova says.

A somewhat more unique hernia is a hiatal hernia around the esophagus as it passes from the chest into the abdomen. “This can result in heartburn or gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD). Surgical treatment is aimed at not only repairing the hernia but controlling the reflux as well,” Dr. Schmidova says. Hiatal hernias are typically treated with laparoscopic surgery, but reflux without a hiatal hernia

Karin Schmidova, M.D., Loveland Surgical Associates


can be treated with a transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF).

TIF is a surgical procedure in which the valve at the junction of the esophagus and stomach is reinforced. It is performed through the mouth rather than through an abdominal incision. “It can be very effective in some patients,” concludes Dr. Schmidova.

vascular Another area managed by general surgeons

is the vascular system. The most common vessels treated are the aorta, arteries in the legs, varicose veins and the carotid arteries. The carotid arteries are located on each side of the neck and carry oxygen-rich blood from

the heart to the brain. If carotid arteries become narrowed by

plaque formation, a stroke may result if frag-ments of the plaque break loose and flow into the brain, eventually causing loss of blood flow to part of the brain. Approximately 20 percent of strokes are caused by carotid artery problems. Dr. Keeler notes, “As time goes by, the carotid arteries can begin to accumulate plaque. This process is exacerbated by high blood pressure, smoking and high cholesterol.”

“If the blockage is more than 70 percent, there is typically an advantage to surgerical management of the placque,” he says. “With less blockage, surgery and medications gener-ally have the same benefit.”

Thyroid and ParathyroidGeneral surgeons also operate on the endo-

crine system, which includes the thyroid and parathyroid glands in the neck. Dr. Keeler says that nodules are the most common reason for thyroid surgery. Some benign, non-cancerous nodules can be managed with removal of part of the gland, but cancerous nodules and some other disease processes require removal of the entire thyroid gland.

The parathyroid glands consist of four small portions of tissue within the neck and are involved in the maintenance of calcium levels within the body. “The most common abnormality of the parathyroid is over secretion of parathyroid hormone by a benign growth that causes calcium levels in the blood to be elevated,” Dr. Keeler says. “Most of the time, only one gland is affected. Once you remove the abnormal gland, the others will typically function normally.”

Breast General surgeons perform the majority of all

non-cosmetic breast surgery from lumpectomy to mastectomy, particularly when it is related to the evaluation and diagnosis of breast cancer.

Dr. Blomquist says, “Breast cancer treatment has evolved dramatically over the past several years. When we started doing this, the breast cancer patient would be referred by the primary care physician for a biopsy. In the last five or six years, there’s been a shift so when a woman sees her gynecologist or primary physician for a lump, she goes to an imaging center before she sees a surgeon. It’s no longer about finding out through a biopsy. That has changed for the better,” he says.

If the diagnosis is breast cancer, general

Bradford R. Keeler, M.D., Loveland Surgical Associates



surgeons are the specialists in surgical removal of the cancer from the body. Over the last 20 years, this operative management has trended toward less surgery for equal results, although each patient has specific needs related to their disease. “Individualization of treatment is the goal for each of us at Loveland Surgical Associ-ates. We strive to help an individual understand this anxiety-causing disease and choose the option that is best for that patient’s situation,” says Dr. Blomquist.

General surgeons also manage breast issues that don’t involve cancer such as benign tumors, infections or milk duct blockage.

SkinGeneral surgeons perform a wide variety of

skin-related operations that range from removing suspicious moles to removal of fatty tumors that grow just below the skin. In addition, they see more complex skin or subcutaneous infections and may use skin grafts to cover skin defects resulting from burns, trauma or infections.

“For general surgeons, there are three major areas of skin: cancer, non-cancerous and wounds (from diabetes, burns, trauma),” Dr. Blomquist says. “Skin cancers – melanoma, basal cell, squa-mous cell – are common, especially in Colorado.”

The approach is different with each type of cancer, Dr. Blomquist says. “With melanoma, we usually have to go deeper – one or two millimeters. Melanomas typically move from the primary tumor into the lymph system. With basal cell, the treatment is less aggressive. The pigment grows out to the side rather than sink-ing like the roots of a tree. It’s typically near the surface and doesn’t involve the lymph nodes.”

Thomas M. Blomquist, M.D., Loveland Surgical Associates


Gastrointestinal Conditions“The most common gastrointestinal problems

seen by general surgeons are colon cancer and diverticulitis,” says Dr. Collins. “From minimally invasive robotic and laparoscopy to more inva-sive procedures, the basic goal is removing the cancer or problem area and then hooking the colon back together. Some people end up with a permanent stoma but those situations are very uncommon. In most cases, we are able to reconnect the colon successfully.”

Regardless of the particular area, LSA’s gen-eral surgeons work closely with each patient, Dr. Collins says. “It was different 20 years ago. The doctor just told the patient what needed to be done, but now there is more interaction. The more knowledgeable patients are about the disease, the more they can be involved in the treatment plan. They’re more invested and will have a better outcome. I like people to become educated. It’s their body and they ought to have a say.”

That type of patient-doctor interaction helps destroy the stereotype of the non-commu-nicative surgeon in much the same way LSA dispels the idea that general surgery is not a specialty. Dr. Keeler makes the point easily. “The misconceptions about what a general surgeon is and does are common, but we are specialists in a defined field of medicine. Very few patients walk away from our office feeling like they were treated by someone who was ‘just a general surgeon.’”

Kay Rios, Ph.D., is a freelance writer in Fort Collins.

Jerome S. Collins, M.D., Loveland Surgical Associates


T A K I N G C A R E

O F Y O U R H E A R T By GRaciela sholandeR

Heart HealthMeDIcAL

It felt like someone was tightening a belt over my chest, not allowing me to breathe.”

That’s how Janea Fowler describes the heart attack she experienced on April 27, 2011, at the age of 39. A resident of Pierce, Colorado, Fowler is a mother of two who worked as admin-istrative assistant to the Weld RE9 School District superintendent and board of education. She had no major health concerns until March 2011. That’s when she began getting severe migraine symptoms accompanied by extreme fatigue.

“Between the first of March and April 27, I was in the ER twice, was monitored by a neu-rologist, and had several appointments with my

family doctor,” Fowler recounts. “At no time was my heart even considered an issue. I knew something was seriously wrong on April 21; it was a feeling of doom.”

She turned to her family doctor, who pre-scribed antidepressants. On April 24 – Easter Sunday – Fowler woke up feeling too exhausted to go to church and prepare the traditional family dinner she’d been looking forward to. By Tuesday she was noticing twinges in her chest.

“It was nothing like they portray in the movies,” she explains. “I went shopping and had to stop and sit down because the twinges took my breath away. Wednesday morning I woke up and was very ill, but I still managed to go to work.”

With her symptoms worsening, she walked to the school nurse to have her blood pressure measured. “It was high. The nurse told me to get to a doctor immediately. I did not make it that far because on the walk back to my office, I collapsed, short of breath, with extreme pres-sure but not pain.”

Fowler was taken to the ER by ambulance. Anxiety and reflux were considered, but not heart disease. When one of the ER doctors thought about releasing her, Janea stated firmly, “I am not going anywhere until you explain to me what is wrong.” Just past midnight she had an angioplasty; her left anterior descending artery (LAD) was 95 percent blocked. She required a stent along with the ballooning of two adjacent

“

Dr. Austin consults with a patient on the often-ambiguous signs of heart attack in women.


arteries. Very likely in the nick of time, Fowler became

a heart disease survivor.

Symptoms And Risk FactorsOne reason doctors initially overlooked heart

disease is Fowler’s young age; another is that her symptoms weren’t the dramatic ones people tend to associate with a heart attack. Cyndi Gryboski, M.D., F.A.C.C., interventional cardiologist with the CardioVascular Institute of North Colorado Medical Center (NCMC) in Greeley, notes that when it comes to heart disease, women tend to have more atypical symptoms more often. “Instead of the typical ‘elephant sitting on your chest’ symptom, some women tend to get overall fatigue,” she notes, “or pain in other places such as the jaw, upper abdomen, elbow or even the wrist. Or perhaps they experience nausea without any apparent reason.”

“Risk factors are the same in women and men,” Dr. Gryboski continues. “They include smoking, being overweight, eating a high-fat diet, not exercising and a family history of heart disease. Particularly in women who have heart attacks in their 30s and 40s, there can be a strong family history of heart disease that puts them at risk to have problems earlier.”

Such was the case for Fowler. After her heart attack, she uncovered a significant history of heart disease on her father’s side of the family. “My father, aunt and great-grandfather had heart events at a young age,” she says. “My great-grandfather was 39 when he died of a massive heart attack. So I feel very blessed for the medical advancements we have today.”

Knowledge Is PowerMany people don’t realize that in the U.S.,

heart disease is the number-one killer of women. Wendy J. Austin, M.D., cardiologist with the Heart Center of the Rockies (HCOR) in Fort Collins, notes that while most aspects of heart disease are similar in men and women, signs of a heart attack in a woman are sometimes missed because of the past misperception of heart disease being a man’s disease. A national push to raise heart health awareness in women is resulting in greater efforts to minimize lifestyle-related risk factors.

“There are several risk factors that can lead to heart disease that, if diagnosed and treated properly, can prevent or delay the development of heart disease,” explains Dr. Austin. “The main ones are diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Smoking is the single most common cause of preventable death in the U.S. Half of all heart attacks occur in smokers.”

As the medical director of the Women’s Heart Health Program, launched in February through HCOR, Dr. Austin is excited about empowering women with knowledge and services. “We are offering preventive screening, exercise classes, a women’s heart health group and educational lectures.”

Prevention & TreatmentTo prevent heart disease, Dr. Gryboski takes

a comprehensive approach with her patients. “We talk about weight and exercise and the importance of knowing your cholesterol levels,

your blood pressure and your fasting blood sugar,” she explains. “It’s beneficial to maintain a body mass index (BMI) of less than 25 and a waist circumference less than 35 inches. If these numbers are out of where they should be, then we work towards getting a lower risk profile.

“A lot of prevention is about exercise,” Dr. Gryboski continues. “I recommend people walk 30 minutes a day. A reasonable amount of physi-cal activity along with lots of fruits, vegetables and whole grains will lower blood pressure and

cholesterol.” Dr. Austin states that once a woman is diag-

nosed with coronary artery disease (CAD), pre-venting complications from CAD such as heart attack, stroke or heart failure becomes very important. “There are several medications we use that significantly lower the risk of future heart problems,” she says. “Other medications are designed to make women feel better, to live life with minimal symptoms. In addition, it is a collaborative approach between the physician,

Carol Noller, WomenHeart Champion

Wendy Austin, M.D.,PvHS’ Heart Center of the Rockies

Janea Fowler,WomenHeart Champion

Cyndi Gryboski, M.D.,Cardiovascular Institute of North

Colorado Medical Center


dietitian and cardiac rehabilitation to make sure patients develop more of a heart-healthy lifestyle.”

Cardiac rehabilitation programs help people recover from heart attacks and heart surgery. Important elements of cardiac rehab include counseling, education and support. For a heart disease survivor, being part of a support group can make a world of difference.

Life As A Heart Disease Survivor“Being a heart disease survivor means you

experienced a heart event – whether it’s a heart attack, chest pains leading to stents, open heart surgery, valves being replaced or even having issues with the heart’s electrical system,” explains Fort Collins resident Carol Noller, a married mother of four who serves as a substitute teacher for Poudre School District. “Anything that has to do with the heart makes you a survivor.”

Noller was 43 when she had a heart attack in 2000. “On Memorial Day, we went up to Estes Park and played putt-putt golf, and then

we drove to Hermit Park to hike up the trail to the top of the mountain,” she recalls. “I was tired but made it. On the way down, I felt like someone slammed a fist in my chest, and I liter-ally dropped to the ground.

“I did not go more than 15 feet before it happened again,” she continues. “I looked at my husband and said, ‘Heart.’ He tried to carry me, but I was in so much pain that he left me on the side of the trail with my 8-year-old twins and took our other two children to find help. I lay there trying to breathe and prayed I would not die in front of the twins.”

Her husband located rangers, who took oxygen up to Noller. Soon paramedics arrived, but after a night at the hospital she was sent home. At a follow-up medical appointment, she experienced a heart attack. She was taken by ambulance to a catheterization lab where a stent was placed in her right coronary artery (RCA), which was 100 percent blocked.

While Noller did have a known history of heart disease on both sides of her family, including her

father dying of a massive heart attack on Mother’s Day at the age of 49, her history was largely ignored because she was young and a woman.

In the past 12 years, Noller has undergone 14 angioplasties, seven stents and an open-heart quadruple bypass surgery. Through all of these battles, one element she found missing was a support group of women like her. Then in February 2010, while reading a heart-healthy eating magazine, she came across WomenHeart, a national awareness and support organization by women, for women heart disease survivors.

Women’s Heart Health Support Groups

Both Noller and Fowler became WomenHeart Champions, bringing much needed heart health support groups to Northern Colorado. “After I had my heart attack,” explains Fowler, “I asked my cardiac rehab staff if there was a support group for women with heart disease.” Finding nothing in the region, she turned to the Inter-net. “I needed to talk to someone who was my

Dr. Gryboski monitors her patient’s heart rate while she walks on the treadmill.



age and had heart disease. That’s how I found WomenHeart.”

After going through extensive training offered by the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, the women became network coordinators. Noller has brought WomenHeart to Fort Collins, while Fowler has created a WomenHeart presence in Weld County. The benefits of joining a support group are many for heart disease survivors, including quality of life enhancement, improved communication with healthcare providers and support for maintaining an active lifestyle and dietary changes.

As Fowler puts it, “WomenHeart meetings allow women to have the opportunity to talk to other women who are surviving and thriving with heart disease. Talking to another who has been there through the good and the bad, through changing meds, changing diagnosis, changing or losing a job, or dealing with a scared spouse is the emotional side addressed through a sup-port group.”

Graciela Sholander is a local freelance writer. Follow her writing blog at www.ghostwritingplus.wordpress.com.

WomenHeart The National Coalition For Women

With Heart Disease877-771-0030

www.womenheart.org

WomenHeart of Weld County Support Group

North Colorado Medical Center3rd Wednesday of each month

6:00 – 7:30 [email protected]

WomenHeart of Northern Colorado Support Group

Heart Center of the Rockies1st Wednesday of each month

6:30 – 8:00 PM [email protected]


Christopher Bee, MD Richard Halbert, MDCory Dunn, MD Wentzell Hamner, MD

Michael Walts, MDArlene Libby, MD Thomas Neuhauser, MDIngerlisa Mattoch, MD Carrie Pizzi, MD

www.summitpathology.com

MAXIMIZING CARE THROUGH ACCURATE

DIAGNOSIS


Specialty EMSMeDIcAL

A B O v E A N D B E Y O N D

T O S Av E L I v E S By heidi KeRR-schlaefeR

We often take for granted that emer-gency medical services will be provided when we need them, but

step behind the curtain and you will discover a group of individuals who work tirelessly to make sure we stay alive and well, under any circumstance.

Emergencies can happen at any time and any place, and the EMS teams and hospitals of Northern Colorado are prepared for all types of situations. We often associated EMS with ambulances, and this is the bulk of what they do; however, the men and women who work in this arena do so much more.

Both Thompson Valley EMS and Poudre Valley Hospital (PVH) Ambulance Services, have specialty teams that train for all kinds of

emergencies, from swift water rescues on the Poudre River and call outs with Larimer County Search and Rescue, to SWAT team deployments.

While most of us try to avoid dangerous situ-ations, these individuals spend their days going into hazardous settings. “These are high drive people who like to go to problems,” says Braden Applegate, paramedic field supervisor and Tacti-cal Emergency Medical Support (TEMS) coor-dinator for PVHS Emergency Medical Services.

In this field, there are two types of Emergency Medical Technicians – the EMT Basic and EMT Paramedic. A paramedic has approximately 1,400 extra hours of training, and usually more years of experience in the field. Thompson Valley EMS chooses to field specialty teams of paramedics.

“It’s important for us to have teams com-prised of paramedics because EMT Basics are not allowed to do some advance skills. In a hairy situation you want to have every skill available

and able to be performed,” says Mike Larson, paramedic and leader of the Thompson Valley EMS TEMS team.

TEMS is one of two specialty teams at Thomp-son Valley EMS. The primary goal of TEMS is to support local SWAT teams with immediate medical assistance. The seven-member team has been operational for 14 years.

“We average approximately 20 calls per year,” say Larson, a 20-year veteran at Thompson Valley EMS.

TEMS trains 10 hours a month with local SWAT teams. They train for hostage situations, drug busts or any other type of emergency call where SWAT is involved. In addition, they participate in other exercises, such as attending a four-day training at Fort Carson military base in Colorado Springs.

This past year, the Larimer County bomb squad approached the Thompson Valley EMS

Members of Poudre valley Hospital’s Bicycle Emergency Response Team: Rob Collett, Tschan Morse and Stacey McCarthy

Photo courtesy of Robert Collett.


TEMS team, asking if they would facilitate a bomb medic program. “We’ve come together with the TEMS teams in Fort Collins and Weld County to create a mutual bomb medic team. Each team responds in their individual districts, but we all have the same training, so we can pool resources,” says Larson.

Paramedic Allen Simons has been with Thompson Valley EMS for 21 years and leads the Special Operations Team, or SOT. This team works with Loveland Fire responding to a variety of calls including hazardous materials, confined space rescue, swift water rescue, dive and rope rescue, heavy extrication and large animal rescue.

In order to provide medical care during a rescue, a SOT paramedic may have to tie into a rope and go over a cliff alongside a fireman, so all types of training are necessary for every person on SOT.

“Everyone on that team is trained to function in all of those environments, but people spe-cialize in particular areas. In other words, there are 30 guys total on the SOT team, including members of Loveland Fire, and nine paramedics, but 10 of them specialize in hazard materials,” explains Simons.

This team is on call to go anywhere within a four state region. For example, if there was a large hazardous materials spill in Kansas, the team would mobilize for the situation.

Karen Lindhorst, RN and trauma coordinator at McKee Medical Center,

stands with a Powered Air Purifying Respirator system (PAPR), the protective

equipment worn by Decon Team members.


Poudre Valley Hospital’s Emergency Medical Services department also has specialty teams that participate in similar activities. The department covers 2,500 square miles, a large district. Last year their TEMS team and SORT (PVH’s version of SOT) responded to 143 calls, including 78 TEMS deployments with SWAT, 27 dive rescues, 16 fire rehabs, 14 call outs with Search and Rescue, and eight bomb calls.

“For the past year and a half we’ve been working closely with Search and Rescue to provide ALS (advanced life support) care in the backcountry. They’ve been very gracious with helping us get the education and equipment we need,” says Applegate.

Northern Colorado is a place where many come to learn through Poudre Valley Hospitals’ EMT Reserve Program. The people who have volunteered in the reserves have gone on to become EMT’s, paramedics, doctors, nurses, physicians assistants, firefighters and police officers in Colorado and beyond.

Clay Young, NREMT-P at PVH Ambulance Services, heads up the EMT Reserve Program. This program has resulted in a win/win for the community of Northern Colorado and the EMTs who participate in the reserves.

“Our reserve program is unique. Paid positions in this field are highly competitive,” says Young.

The fact is, to get a job in EMS, or to apply to paramedic school an EMT Basic needs expe-rience and getting experience can be difficult. The Reserve Program allows for on-the-job training. This helps the PVH Emergency Medical Service cover their large district, and the growing population of Northern Colorado.

The EMT Reserve Program grew out of the volunteer program at PVH in 1994. Four years ago, there were 30 EMT reserves who worked 97 events. In 2011, the reserves covered in 258 events, equating to 3,300 volunteer hours. In addition, they put in 18,788 ambulance hours.

It is often the Reserve EMT’s who work stand-bys for local events that need to have EMS avail-able – charitable walks or runs, for example. It can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars to have an ambulance at an event such as a cancer walk, but the reserves can work standby at little or no cost to the organizations. The reserves also provide free and low cost outreach and education throughout the community.

Many EMT Reserves volunteer hours with the bicycle emergency response team, or BERT. The bike team also includes paramedics who are expert level mountain bikers who are able to reach people on technically difficult trails around Northern Colorado. BERT can often be seen working festivals and races.

“New West Fest is a great example of where we take a bunch of different specialties and marry them up to work cohesively. At New West Fest we won’t just have Reserves there, but we’ll also have a mix of SORT and TEMS members there too, and of course, BERT. We all work together and it turns into the efficient machine,” says Young.

While PVH has a renowned EMS reserve pro-gram, Thompson Valley EMS is one of the last groups in Colorado still working 24-hour shifts, and many paramedic students from Denver

Part of the Thompson valley EMS specialty teams: Chief Randy Lesher, Chausey Edwards, Marketing, and Mike Turner, Education Captain

Mike Larson, Thompson valley EMS Operations Captain and Tactical EMS Team Leader


request to do training time at Thompson Valley EMS’ brand new facility because it gives them an oppportunity they cannot get elsewhere.

At the region’s hospitals, preparedness and emergency response are always top of mind. For individuals like Karen Lindhorst, RN and trauma coordinator at McKee Medical Center, the safety of the community and the facility is her first priority.

“We utilize an all-hazards approach to our preparedness, so whether it’s an exposure, a car crash, a weather event or even computer failures, we try to be prepared for whatever the situation may occur in our community,” says Lindhorst.

McKee Medical Center has a decontamina-tion room in the emergency department that can process a small number of people, but they also have a two-line tent available for major incidents where crowds of people must be decontaminated.

“We work very closely with Loveland Fire and the Office of Emergency Management,” says Lindhorst.

The Preparedness Program has been a focus of government and hospitals nationwide since the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, and many McKee staff members underwent training provided by Denver Health Medical Center’s BNICE program in 2008 and 2009. BNICE stands for biological, nuclear, incendiary, chemical and explosives.

Since then, additional training has been pro-vided to staff via online courses and through hands-on experience with protective equipment. Approximately 14 staff members take part in the program, including many who do not work directly with patients, because it is easier to pull these individuals away in case of an emergency situation.

Recently an employee from the plant depart-ment (maintenance) went to FEMA’s Center for Domestic Preparedness in Anniston, Alabama, for training in hazardous materials.

“We anticipate that we will send a couple more people there because of the depth and quality of the training,” says Lindhorst.

From the EMT’s and paramedics who work the front lines to the rapid response plans being outlined and practiced in hospitals, it’s safe to say that the people of Northern Colorado are in good hands.

“We, as an organization, and the fire depart-ment, work to have the highest level of training in everything we do,” says Randy Lesher, chief/paramedic at Thompson Valley EMS.

His sentiments are echoed throughout the EMS community in Northern Colorado. By main-taining open lines of communication between the multiple organizations and districts across the region, emergency medical services keep a keen eye on their number one goal: saving lives.

Heidi Kerr-Schlaefer is a journalist and freelance writer from Northern Colorado. She is also the Mayor of HeidiTown.com, a blog about Colorado events and festivals.


An at-home visit from a health-care professional may seem like something from the distant past, but it’s regaining popularity. With the healthcare industry

turning an eye toward cutting costs and keep-ing patients out of hospitals, the community paramedic could be the answer; however, this program is so much more than a money saving measure.

The national Community Paramedic Program started as a way to bring medical services to those living in rural areas. The program expands the role of EMS personnel through a standardized cur-riculum at accredited colleges and universities. A community paramedic can serve communities in the areas of primary care, public health, disease management, prevention and wellness, mental health and dental care.

When the Community Paramedic Program is fully established, a person will be able to call a non-emergency number to request medical atten-tion from a paramedic. While Northern Colorado’s emergency medical services’ personnel have not yet participated in the full training required for the Community Paramedic Program, Poudre Valley Hospital Emergency Medical Services (EMS) began slowly rolling it out last year.

They began serving the community by visiting patients in their home to provide risk and fall assess-ments, flu shots, blood pressure checks, medica-tion reconciliation and placing carbon monoxide detectors. By visiting patients on a regular basis, the paramedics also become aware of other changes,

such as changes in mood or mental state. “The premise of the program is to keep people

healthy in a comfortable home environment instead of waiting for something to go wrong,” says Ted Beckman, NREMTP, CRT, division chief and program coordinator for the Community Paramedic Program at PVHS EMS.

Currently four paramedics participate in the pro-gram at PVHS EMS, and other Northern Colorado EMS groups plan to follow suit. Once paramedics across the region receive training, the level of services they offer will increase.

For now, people like Carol and Stanley Sepulbeda of Fort Collins are benefiting from the first phase of the program. The Sepulbedas heard about it through the Aspen Club at PVH. Carol is 73 and Stanley is 91 years old.

On the first Friday of each month a paramedic visits the Sepulbedas to do a blood pressure check and to visit. They also received their flu shot this year from the community paramedic.

“I like the personnel. They are very accommo-dating,” says Carol.

This past summer, a paramedic stopped by the Sepulbeda’s house and discovered Stanley’s blood pressure was higher than normal. It turns out he’d been out mowing his lawn, but the paramedic became concerned and ran a variety of tests to make sure he was all right.

“That’s what I really appreciate,” says Carol. “If there’s any variation from the last time they stopped by, they check that thoroughly.”

The Supulbedas are not charged for these visits, because the paramedics simply stop by while they are on duty. This is part of the money saving aspect

of the Community Paramedic Program. “I’d recommend other people participate in the

program because of the personnel and because your health is something you should keep track of,” says Carol.

“It gives us peace of mind,” adds Stanley.Beckman compares the program to the fire

service. When the fire service began, they fought many fires, but over the years they’ve established preventative measures including building codes and sprinkler systems. Today, there are fewer fires.

“My goal would be that we stop running 911 calls and we just do preventative care. We would still handle traffic accidents, and true emergencies, but a lot of this stuff would be handled through prevention,” says Beckman.

Randy Lesher, chief paramedic at Thompson Valley EMS, echoes Beckman’s sentiments about the program, and notes that it could potentially reduce the number of ambulance calls, thus reduc-ing the need for new ambulances.

Ultimately, the program reduces the number of hospital re-admissions, and this alone saves money; however, the Community Paramedic Program does not just cut costs, it saves lives, and is an important part of the changing face of healthcare.

Currently, local EMS agencies are waiting for a grant so that the paramedics can obtain the necessary training to expand the program in Northern Colorado.

Heidi Kerr-Schlaefer is a journalist and freelance writer from Northern Colorado. She is also the Mayor of HeidiTown.com, a blog about Colorado events and festivals.

P R O M O T I N G P R E v E N T I O N ,

PROvIDING PEACE OF MINDBy heidi KeRR-schlaefeR

Community Paramedics MeDIcAL



AddictionMeDIcAL

By caRl simmons

PAINKILLER ADDICTION EPIDEMIC

Anyone following the news knows that painkiller abuse and addiction, and crime relat-ing to it, are on the rise. In fact, it’s likely that you already

know someone struggling with painkiller abuse, whether that person has admitted it or not.

According to a 2010 study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in every 20 people in the U.S., ages 12 and older, has used prescription painkillers – opiods such as OxyContin, Vicodin and methadone – in a manner other than originally prescribed. Fur-thermore, nearly 15,000 people die each year from painkiller overdose – a nearly 400 percent increase from 10 years ago.

And yet it’s the stigma attached with addic-tion that keeps people from seeking help. “This happens to normal people,” observes Nancy Lamb, registered pharmacist and consultant for Good Day Pharmacy. “People don’t just think, ‘I’m going to go out and get some OxyContin.’ That’s not how it happens. It happens innocently. They get Vicodin or some other drug because they broke their leg or they’re in some other kind of pain, and either that medication didn’t

work or they began increasing their dosage. They find they can’t stop.”

Lamb explains how it begins to affect more than the patient’s physical well being. “It can affect your personal life, your business life, the way you function day to day. It’s the embarrass-ment of confessing to friends and family that keeps people from seeking help.”

Lamb sees how patients may not know where to turn after realizing they have a problem. “There’s a change in brain chemistry, so people may need help to deal with withdrawal symp-toms that they can’t manage. Yet they’re scared of calling it an addiction,” Lamb says. “I don’t see a lot of addicts, normally. What I see are a lot of innocent people who got hooked, and now they don’t know what to do.”

Michael Fuller, M.D., inpatient medical direc-tor at North Colorado Medical Center (NCMC) Behavioral Health Services in Greeley, explains the dangers of painkiller abuse, “The general danger of misusing opiates is that it causes breathing to slow down. If it slows down enough, you could die – that’s the immediate danger. Other complications, from a psychiatric standpoint, include depression and pain symp-toms from withdrawal. Once your brain becomes dependent on opiates, you can experience the

sensation of real pain that is actually caused by withdrawal from opiods, and that pain might be worse than the physical pain you began taking the opiates for.”

Using prescription medication outside of the prescribed time is misuse, according to Dr. Fuller. “In my mind, any time you obtain prescription medications from a source other than a physician, or use the medications other than indicated by your physician or the instruc-tions on the bottle, this is abuse.”

There are non-addictive alternatives to opiods, Dr. Fuller points out, “but realistically, you’ll have to cope with some level of pain. This is something you need to talk about with your primary care physician.”

Lamb adds, “I encourage people to use as little of their medications as possible, especially if they don’t need the narcotic to constantly deal with the pain. Prescription topical pain medications applied to the site can provide excellent pain control without the risk of addic-tion. Frequently people have pain that no longer requires a narcotic; you can use drugs that are typically used for headache pain (i.e. Tylenol or ibuprofen). Also, non-narcotic drugs that are usually used for seizures are effective for nerve pain (painful burning or shoothing sensations).



People will also use rolfing, acupuncture and yoga as ways of dealing with the pain, rather than just blocking it.”

Another problem with painkiller medications is that some people simply need them. “Chronic pain is a really significant issue,” says Cleopatra Songa, certified addictions counselor at NCMC Behavioral Health. “Some people really do need long-term pain medication. That’s different from someone who is abusing pain medications and is going to several different doctors or getting painkillers off the street. The problem is, people begin to have ‘phantom pain’ or withdrawal pains long after the original issue treated by pain medi-cation should have been healed. Abuse becomes addition when it starts to affect other areas of their lives, such as family or work.”

“I would educate the patient to the side effects and risks, and carefully describe the abuse poten-tial of the prescriptions,” Dr. Fuller says. “This means telling patients specifically that I would set a time limit on the medication, based on the acute injury he or she has. But patients also need to be aware that if they’re taking more than what’s allotted, they need to notify their doctor. Likewise, if they’re taking medications to avoid the symptoms of withdrawal, they need to talk to their doctor about it. A good indicator is, if you’re experiencing withdrawal symptoms first thing in the morning – since you haven’t taken your medication overnight – there’s a good chance you’re becoming addicted.”

So what symptoms can friends or families – and the users of prescription painkillers themselves – look out for, that might tip them off to the possibility of abuse or addiction?

“Put simply, they actually can’t go without it,” Lamb says. “They may be taking it for longer

periods than prescribed, or they’re not trying to get off the pills, or they’re irritable, angry or lethargic. Typically what happens is that people will escalate their use of that pill. At that point, they’re prob-ably going to need professional intervention.”

There are a number of forms of treatment for those who realize they’ve become addicted.

The “classic” forms of treatment are, in order of affordability:

• Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA) meetings

• Intensive outpatient programs (IOPs), where people meet in a group format three or four times a week, for several hours, with a therapist

• Individual counseling

• Inpatient substance treatment, which requires staying at a facility 24/7

NCMC Behavioral Health offers both individual therapy and IOP to address substance abuse, Songa points out. “In March, we will begin an IOP specifically for those dealing with substance abuse and addiction, called Recovery Foundations. It’s an open group, so people can join at any time. We run it in 10-week blocks. Some people, depend-ing on where they’re at, may want to go through the cycle more than once, because they’re in a different place from where they started.

“All of our counselors are trained in evidence-based practice, which means their work is based on clinical studies rather than simply anecdotal information,” Songa continues. “One thing that’s helpful is that our staff trained in different areas,

so they can also help people in other matters such as depression or pain management. Just getting the pain under control isn’t enough; it’s important to help people learn to heal and cope emotionally, so they don’t have to rely on the substance. This is critical, because it helps people get to a level where they can function.”

“Another aspect of addiction that is not well understood is that people will use medication to cope with psychological stress,” Dr. Fuller adds. “People who get addicted to opiods stunt their ability to deal with stress. This is important to note for patients who are able to get detoxed from substances but feel they are having crav-ings a month later. These cravings could easily represent stress in their life that the patients are unaware of. Through working with mental health providers, patients may be able to become more aware of their stressors and develop healthier ways of coping. That’s where counseling plays a key role – helping people to keep from relapsing.”

Certain additional factors may affect the prob-ability of becoming addicted to painkillers, such as a family history of addiction or past addiction. “Be mindful, and work with your doctor to try to figure out alternatives to dealing with your pain,” states Songa.

“The reason that the FDA puts tight controls on these drugs is because they’re so addictive,” Lamb adds. “Switch over to a non-narcotic medi-cation as soon as you can. And in the meantime, take the lowest dosage possible for the shortest period possible.”

Carl Simmons is a freelance writer and editor in Loveland. You can learn more about Carl at carlsimmonslive.com.

Michael Fuller, M.D., Inpatient Medical Director at NCMC Behavioral Health

Cleopatra Songa, Certified Addictions Counselor at NCMC Behavioral Health



UNDERSTANDING

HEPATITIS

HepatitisMeDIcAL

By TRacee sioux

David Abbey, M.D., Internal Medicine Clinic of Fort Collins

Hepatitis A and B cases are declining in the U.S. due to the availability of vaccines and increased awareness. The inci-dence of hepatitis C, however, is

increasing. This trend is due in part because a vaccine has not yet been developed and a number of immigrants moving to the States are already infected. Still, many people remain confused about the dangers of hepatitis and its different strains.

Hepatitis is essentially any inflammation of the liver. David Abbey, M.D. with Internal Medi-cine Clinic of Fort Collins, explains the difference between hepatitis A, B and C and helps the com-munity understand how to protect themselves and their families from these potentially life-threatening viruses.

Hepatitis A is Acute and Abbreviated“Hepatitis A is a short-term virus passed by

fecal-oral transmission,” says Dr. Abbey. In lay-man’s terms, you had the misfortune of eating the wrong salad at the wrong restaurant prepared by someone who didn’t thoroughly wash their hands after using the restroom, or you went to Mexico and ate contaminated fruits and veggies or drank contaminated water.

Hepatitis A has an incubation period (the period after exposure but before symptoms appear) of two to six weeks. Afterward, muscle aches, nausea and upper abdominal pain occur followed by jaundiced yellow eyes and skin. People are infec-tious during the incubation period and continue to shed virus for a week after the jaundice appears. Evidence of the virus can be detected in the body for three to six months. Typically there are no long term consequences to picking up hepatitis A. Life threatening hepatitis A can occur but “is extremely rare and those who do suffer extreme cases can often qualify for a liver transplant,” notes Dr. Abbey.

“Treatment for hepatitis A is strictly supportive with fluids and anti-nausea medications. No anti-viral medications are indicated,” says Dr. Abbey.

“From a public health perspective there is a vaccine and those who are going to be visiting a third-world country should be vaccinated,” he adds. “While a person carries the virus they should be fastidious about hand washing.”

Hepatitis B is Brutal and BalefulHepatitis B is transmitted through bodily fluids,

most commonly through IV drug use and unsafe needle sharing practices, high-risk sexual activ-ity or reusing infected needles in tattoo parlors. Occasionally, people might contract hepatitis B through accidental exposure from invasive medi-cal devices, though this is rare. There is no risk whatsoever that hepatitis B can be passed with casual contact like hugging or kissing. However, those infected with the virus should not share items like razor blades or toothbrushes or any item that might get blood on it.

Hepatitis B has the same symptoms as hepatitis A in the acute phase – muscle aches, nausea, upper abdominal pain and jaundice. The virus can be cleared by the body’s immune system or it can become chronic and lifelong. “Though the virus is most often asymptomatic after the acute phase, it can also lead to inflammation of the liver, causing illness and even cirrhosis of the liver which can be life-threatening,” reports Dr. Abbey. “Some patients may require a liver trans-plant eventually.” This is especially true for those infected as children. While most adults may not experience any symptoms of hepatitis B, those infected as children are 30 to 50 percent more likely to experience chronic inflammation and infection throughout their lives.

“Mothers can pass the virus on to babies during pregnancy and birth. Unlike adults, who generally experience no symptoms after the original acute infection, approximately 90 percent of children infected during the perinatal period develop

chronic infection and up to 25 percent develop chronic active hepatitis as adults,” according to a report published by the University of Washington.

The same treatment protocol is followed for hepatitis B as with hepatitis A during the acute phase – fluids and anti-nausea medication. Most adults’ symptoms will clear up on their own with-out antiviral agents; however, if there is evidence of infection after six months, a biopsy of the liver, gene typing and serology blood tests are performed to determine which medications will be most effective. Common medications include Interferon and Epivar.

There is no cure for hepatitis B, but there is a vaccine that is 95 percent effective. Vaccination is advised for all babies, children and adults. Follow-ing the original dose, which is recommended at birth, a booster shot is administered one month later and a third injection is administered six months after the first dose. No other boosters are required during a person’s lifetime. The dosing recommen-dations remain the same for adults who were not vaccinated as children.

Hepatitis C is Clandestine and Chronic

Hepatitis C is the sneaky cousin to hepatitis A and B, most often bearing absolutely no symp-toms at all in its acute phase. In the most extreme cases when the person becomes infected he or she will have very mild flu-like symptoms. Often a person will carry the virus for decades without ever knowing they have hepatitis, thus unknowingly spreading the virus to countless others. “Though people can live for 30 years without ever expe-riencing a symptom, about 30 percent of those infected develop cirrhosis of the liver or have other bad outcomes like liver cancer,” says Dr. Abbey.

Hepatitis C is the only hepatitis virus that is growing in the U.S. due to variables such as the lack of vaccine and indications that .5 percent of the immigrant population that moves here are already infected and carriers are unaware of their


illness so they spread the virus unwittingly. Hepatitis C is spread through bodily fluids the

same ways as hepatitis B, high-risk sexual activity and IV drug use being the top culprits.

Once a person experiences inflammation of the liver a biopsy of the liver, gene typing and serology blood tests are performed to determine the best medications to use. Common antiviral medications include Interferon and Ribaviron.

“We’re seeing a three-fold increase in hepato-cellular carcinoma, a type of liver cancer, because of the increase in hepatitis C. We don’t have a vaccine against it and there are certain immigrant populations, like Somali immigrants in Minnesota, where we see a marked increase in infection,” says Dr. Abbey.

Sub-Saharan Africa, parts of Asia and South America and other Third World countries have high incidence of hepatitis.

Unlike hepatitis B, there is very little risk of moth-ers passing hepatitis C on to their infants in utero, occurring in no more than 6 percent of children born to infected mothers, according to epidemic.org, a publication of Dartmouth Medical School.

In the U.S. it is common for 80 percent of prison populations to be infected with the hepatitis C virus and some prisons even report 100 percent infection rates, according to epidemic.org. There is also a correlation to alcoholism that is not yet understood; those with hepatitis are advised not to consume alcohol.

“They’re working on a hepatitis C vaccine, though I’m not aware of any human trials going on right now,” says Dr. Abbey. “But, it’s an active goal and it will be a big deal to get that.”

What You Should Know Dr. Abbey says it’s important to get vaccinated

and to vaccinate your children. Vaccination is the reason hepatitis A and B are on the decline. You’re at risk for hepatitis A if you eat at the wrong restaurant or buy the wrong head of lettuce. Hepatitis B can cause serious, lifelong illness and a simple vaccination can prevent it.

Public health officials especially encourage those visiting other countries to be vaccinated for hepatitis A and B, healthcare workers, heterosexu-als with risky sexual behavior, gay males, IV drug users, anyone with liver disease, anyone with another hepatitis virus and people with diabetes should be vaccinated for hepatitis B. There is a combination hepatitis A and B vaccination that now makes things simpler.

Practice safe sex, proper hand washing, good hygiene and make sure the tattoo artist unwraps the needle in front of you. Make sure you’re in clean environments with safe practices during invasive medical procedures.

“If someone does have hepatitis they can live a normal life,” notes Dr. Abbey. Hepatitis is not normally a death sentence, nor is it a huge inhibi-tor to any lifestyle. Those who have been infected with any of the strains can keep symptoms under control if they are armed with the correct knowl-edge and the care of a physician.

Tracee Sioux is a Northern Colorado freelance writer and author. She can be can be found on LinkedIn/TraceeSioux and Facebook/The Girl Revolution.


Med SpasweLLneSS

I M P R O v E Y O U R S E L F I M A G E

AT L O C A L M E D S PA S By connie hein

Part of the wisdom that comes with aging includes learning how to care for our bodies through a healthy lifestyle to look and feel our best. This might include knowing when it’s time to seek help from body-contouring or skin repair specialists when our hard work and best effort is not producing the desired results. We spoke to several Northern Colorado medical professionals who are knowledgeable and passionate about the newest technology in this field and we were pleasantly surprised to find that new treatments are safer and more effective than ever.

Pure LipoSculpt CenterDr. Greg Denzel, of Pure LipoSculpt Center

in Windsor, says he is very passionate about helping clients on their self-improvement journey. “It’s very rewarding when patients are happy with results and appreciate the work we’ve done to help improve their lives,” he says.

For the past three years, Dr. Denzel has been offering laser liposuction, the newest liposuction procedure, with incredible results. He believes laser liposuction is the way of the future and will soon be the only liposuction treatment used. “As soon as the laser liposuc-tion procedures were approved by the FDA six years ago,” he says, “I started training immediately and moved from the urgent care medical field I had worked in for years.” He says the new procedure is affordable, pain free and has a quick recovery time.

When using laser liposuction, there is no need for general anesthesia, which is one of the riskiest parts of any surgery, according to Dr. Denzel. “Because there are only tiny inci-sions made, a local anesthesia is all a patient needs, which is the reason there is virtually no down time,” he says.

“Many people call this the ‘lunchtime lipo’ and brag about feeling so good they go back to work the next day,” he says. Even though this is quite common, Dr. Denzel advises all his patients to plan for a day or two off work


BENEFITS:The principles you learn during this program will put you on the road to a healthy lifestyle that you can follow for years.

• INCREASED STRENGTH

• IMPROVED ENDURANCE

• MUSCLE TONE

• INCREASED FLEXIBILITY

• IMPROVED EATING HABITS

• PERSONAL INSTRUCTION

• COACHING

• ENCOURAGEMENT

Before After

2716 S. College Ave, Suite B, Fort Collins | (970) 237-3217

www.eXtremebodyshaping.com

motivation to transformation®

in case of tenderness or sleepiness from the pain medication prescribed after a procedure.

Laser liposuction can be done on almost any part of the body including the abdomen, neck, arms, waist, flanks, thighs and bra roll on the back. Dr. Denzel explains that the gentle heat of the laser breaks down fat cells and removes them from the body and also promotes the growth of new collagen to the area. During the healing process, the skin tightens, looks fresher and feels smoother.

“We also perform breast and buttock aug-mentation using the patient’s own fat from other parts of their bodies,” he says. “With fat transfer we can move fat from virtually any part of the body to another.”

Dr. Denzel says it’s very satisfying to be able to offer affordable procedures that are virtually pain-free to give patients a better quality of life.

“We have patients leave us gifts and write us touching letters, but what’s most reward-ing is a patient who cries tears of joy because they are so pleased with their results of a procedure,” he says.

For questions or pricing readers may call (970) 545-3399, or visit

www.pureliposculpt.com for before and after photos.


Barcelona Clinical Spa and Massage“Who wouldn’t want a job where everyone

thanks you and leaves with a smile on their face?”This is why C.J. Weimer, owner of Barcelona

Clinical Spa and Massage in Fort Collins, is pas-sionate about her job. Weimer enjoys bringing the newest, most effective treatments to her clients. “I don’t like wasting people’s time or money and I certainly don’t want to further damage their skin, so I do lots of research before adding new treatments to the spa,” she says.

HydraFacial Treatments are one of the newest

advances in non-laser skin resurfacing that Weimer is now offering to her clients. This treatment gently removes dead skin cells and impurities while using a gentle solution to cleanse, hydrate and moisturize the new skin. The treatment is designed for all skin types to decrease the signs of aging by improving the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, congested and enlarged pores, oily or acne-prone skin, hyperpigmentation and brown spots.

Weimer started using this treatment three and a half years ago with amazing results for men

and women of all ages. She says the treatment is perfectly suited to the Northern Colorado climate. “Colorado is dry, averaging about 30 percent humidity, but it’s actually the dryness combined with the high altitude that quickly ages our skin.”

The altitude puts pressure on skin cells to decompress them and dry them out. “When our cells are not fully hydrated they cannot function at their optimal level,” she says. “This causes much of the tissue damage that we call aging.”

The HydraFacial treatment is also soothing and refreshing, with no skin irritation and produces immediate visible results.

“This is a beautiful treatment that works directly on the skins dermis layer which is just beneath the outer epidermis layer,” she says.

Barcelona is one of the few med spas offer-ing the treatment in Colorado. “The first one in Colorado was in Denver about 5 years ago,” she says. “So it’s very new to the area.” It is also surprisingly affordable compared to other treat-ments and procedures, she adds. Treatments start at $185 with packages that give substantial discounts when purchasing multiple treatments.

Barcelona offers other treatments that work in conjunction with the HydraFacial. When skin is extremely damaged they offer laser therapy along with the facial for optimal results.

“Our motto at Barcelona is, ‘If you want to have beautiful skin you have to have healthy skin first,’” says Weimer.

For a free skin consultation call (970) 226-2596 or visit

www.barcelonasalon-spa.com

Allura Skin and Laser ClinicDr. Rebecca de la Torre at Allura Skin, Laser

and Wellness Clinics in Fort Collins and Loveland offers many options to improve self-image with non-surgical body contouring that she says can be life-changing for clients. The latest procedure she offers is one she found during almost two years of research on treatments and technology for body shaping and contouring. VaserShape is an ultrasound heat and massage therapy that Dr. de la Torre says is the perfect combination of soothing warmth and incredible results.

“I looked into several types of contouring

procedures including some that use freezing fat cells to rid them from the body,” she says. “After trying many options for myself, I found the soothing warmth of the ultrasound heat to be much more relaxing and just as effective.” With VaserShape Dr. de la Torre says she has the ability to target small areas of the body and to control the heat based on the fat volume in the area.

VaserShape therapy uses two beams of ultra-sound energy to warm and treat fatty tissue beneath the skin. This promotes fat cell mobility and encourages the body to metabolize, drain or reabsorb excess fluids, and reduce fat pockets by

two to three inches in the treated area. For each area of the body being treated, Dr.

de la Torre recommends doing one treatment per week for five to six weeks and then letting the body rest and recover before treating any other areas of concern.

Dr. de la Torre says this treatment can be used on most areas of the body excluding the face.

“We have had great success in treating thighs, buttocks, back, flanks, the muffin top area and arms to rid the areas of unwanted fat as well as tightening the skin over the area during the healing process,” she says. “I am so excited to be able to offer this effective, affordable treatment to my clients.”

Also offered at Allura is the HCG diet, which has been very successful for women who need to lose weight before considering other means of fat loss and body contouring.

She says she always tries to “think outside the box” when it comes to doing research on new treatments for her clients. “I like to try all the newest treatments to find what best serves the needs of my clients,” she says.

“Our goal at Allura is to bring treatments that give our clients the gift of a renewed confidence and improved self-image,” she says.

For more information readers may call (970) 223-0193 or visit

www.alluraskinclinic.com



Eye Center of Northern ColoradoCO2 laser therapy is just one more tool doc-

tors use to help patients age gracefully and look their best at any age, but did you know that not all CO2 lasers are created equal?

Dr. Chet Riestad of the Eye Center of Northern Colorado in Loveland and Fort Collins says he spent many hours researching the best options available before he decided to bring the new Lumenis Ultrapulse Laser to the Northern Colorado residents last October. The laser is available at Eye Center’s newest facility in Loveland’s’ popular Centerra com-plex, and patients have been delighted with the results.

The greatest difference between the new laser and most other CO2 lasers being used in the area is its power and versatility. “It allows both superficial and deep fractional treatments using a single hand piece for treatment of most types of skin damage including hypo and hyper pigmentation and scars,” he says.

Dr. Riestad likens the lasers to shopping for a microwave oven – there are many different levels of power in microwaves for use in dif-ferent functions. One that might be used in a dorm room for popcorn will not perform the same as a more powerful microwave built for restaurant use.

“Having more power in the CO2 laser is so efficient that face resurfacing is a one-time service.” He adds that the treatment works on the deeper layers of skin without damage to the area because it is used on the area for


such a small amount of time. Dr. Reistad enjoys the ease, efficiency and

options the powerful laser offers his patients. Besides doing the face resurfacing, he can also do the neck area, décolleté and back of the hands. “It also allows me to remove fat bags from under the eye without any incision and other procedures that most CO2 lasers are not powerful enough to perform,” he says. “This laser works on the skin in a checker-board pattern which allows the untouched skin in between to heal the laser-treated skin more quickly.”

Patients can have the treatment in an office setting with mild pain killers and a local numbing cream with little or no dis-comfort, which is just one of the advantages of a laser treatment over a surgical face lifts. Another advantage is that the texture of the skin and hyper or hypo pigmentation, which often causes the skin to look older, is significantly improved with CO2 treatments, but not improved through surgery.

In his practice of ophthalmic plastic sur-gery, Dr. Reistad performs many cosmetic and reconstructive procedures as well as non-surgical treatments including Botox and Juvederm.

For more information on any of the treat-ments or procedures readers may call

(970) 221-2222 or visit www.eyecenternoco.com


DentalweLLneSS

Temporomandibular joint dys-function (TMD) is most com-monly referred to by the acro-nym for the joint itself, TMJ. The many-faceted disorder

involves the muscles and surrounding structures of that joint. Among common resulting complaints are headaches and muscle pain.

Tom Overton, DDS, is a Fort Collins den-tist who frequently sees TMJ dysfunction in patients. He names many additional culprits to

the disorder’s symptomatic cast of characters: numbness or tingling in the fingers, vertigo, difficulty swallowing, pain-based depression, ear stuffiness and perceived sinus pain.

Dr. Overton is a Denver-native who moved to Fort Collins in 1994 after graduation from the University of Nebraska dental school in Lincoln. He assumed the practice of John Cowell, DDS, now the Overton Center for Dental Arts. Because he specializes in cos-metic dentistry, Dr. Overton helps many patients with TMJ-related concerns brought on by grinding, overcrowding and extensive

tooth wear. In addition to those problems, he implicates bad posture or faulty dental work, which can bring on muscle stress and tension or change jaw alignment and bite.

Dr. Overton’s treatment course usually begins with the use of an orthotic splint on upper or lower teeth. This device can correct faulty bite, which in turn relaxes neck and jaw muscles. As a long-term solution, he might recommend braces to reposition teeth once initial symptoms are alleviated. In cases of bruxism (grinding), he suggests night guards as well as (daytime) splints.

By maRTy meTzGeR

STOP THE PROGRESSION OF TMJ


Some dentists use additional treatment procedures such as healing lasers or diag-nostic/therapeutic anesthesia injections in specific areas to reduce or relieve tension on muscles. As a last resort, surgery might be necessary in cases of joint degeneration.

Dr. Overton emphasizes TMD prevention, especially for those genetically predisposed. Routine dental exams and cleanings are essen-tial. Other preventive techniques Dr. Overton lists include avoidance of hard or very chewy foods (for example: gum, bagels, beef jerky) and those that necessitate opening jaws wide (such as whole apples or large sandwiches). Best also to avoid ‘recreational activities’ like chronic nail/cuticle biting! Perhaps there’s literal wisdom in that old adage, “Don’t bite off more than you can chew.”

So, prevention is key, but if the disorder is already present, be optimistic.

“Getting treatment for TMD can improve patients’ lives by reducing pain and increas-ing their ability to function on a daily basis,” counsels Dr. Overton.

TMJ’s origins and the insidious disorder’s symptoms certainly are wide-ranging. High up in the causes column are teeth clenching, grinding (bruxing), trauma, tooth decay with

Tom Overton, DDS, Overton Center for Dental Arts in Fort Collins


resulting loss, congenital jaw misalignment and stress.

While TMJ is generally recognized as a dental/jaw problem, it can contribute to or initiate a flock of further health issues. Most prominent are eating and digestive problems due to compromised chewing ability. Speech can be affected. Earaches or tinnitus (ringing in the ears) and all manner of neck and head pain are other TMJ symptoms.

Sometimes dentists and chiropractors work together to assure spinal adjustments and bite realignment treatments don’t con-flict, which could compromise one or both therapies. Casey Kincaid, D.C., C.C.E.P., of Advantage Chiropractic and Wellness Center in Fort Collins, says that he refers patients to dentists for X-rays when an initial exam indicates that a fracture of the TMJ joint might have occurred.

The most common causes Dr. Kincaid sees in his chiropractic patients with TMD-associated complaints are clenching (while asleep or during exercise) and trauma, par-ticularly sports-related. During exams, he observes how the jaw tracks when opened and closed. When no fracture is present, he treats the disorder through soft tissue work. He also uses trigger point therapy, myofascial release, occasionally tapes the large masseter jaw muscle to relax it, and can manipulate the TMJ joint itself. If adjustments don’t “hold,” that is they don’t relieve TMD symptoms, Dr. Kincaid will refer the patient to a dentist to

Casey Kincaid, D.C., of Advantage Chiropractic and Wellness Center

in Fort Collins


change bite.Chiropractic work can often bring symp-

toms of TMJ dysfunction under control but, adds Dr. Kincaid, if the cause is clenching rather than a specific traumatic event, they will probably re-occur. The patient is encour-aged to discover the underlying cause of clenching and work to alleviate that.

TMD sufferers usually seek relief from dental professionals but might also do well to consider chiropractic, Dr. Kincaid advises. TMD is a slippery disorder that can be exac-erbated by neck and back dysfunction or can begin with jaw problems that tense up neck and back muscles. Dr. Kincaid says that often adjustments of C1 and C2 vertebrae for neck pain will help jaw issues as well. He relates that he once had a patient who was extremely physically active. Most of his symptoms referred pain from his neck and back to his TMJ joint. One adjustment of C1 and C2 alleviated all of it. Also, dental and jaw problems can similarly bring on neck or back pain because the human body normally works as a single, cohesive unit, for good or bad.

TMJ joints are not exclusive to people. Clarence Sitzman, DVM, frequently treats varying TMJ disorders in animals at Front Range Animal Dental Associates at Peak Veterinary Specialists in Windsor. Most of his patients are injury victims, especially due to auto accidents in pets or, for farm animals, kicks to the jaw from herd mates. Additional causes he mentions are tumor or cancer surgery that necessitates removal of part of the jaw. The remaining portion can overcompensate and cause pain or dysfunc-tion. Dr. Sitzman says that genetically altered dogs (chonrodysplastic) tend to suffer from congenital TMJ disorders. These include bull-dogs, Pugs, Boston Terriers and many other flat-faced breeds.

Treatment depends on the cause. If there is a dislocation, Dr. Sitzman tapes muzzle wraps to allow the mouth only a finger or two-width opening until healing occurs. Or, he sometimes uses a temporary brace-type bonding of teeth, leaving room only for a liquid diet. When an animal’s TMJ joint is too painful to use as is, he might find it necessary to remove part of the joint.

“In animals, the goal is a comfortable, not necessarily perfect, bite,” says Dr. Sitzman. He clarifies by adding that, due to bite dif-ferences, tooth loss is not a TMD cause as it can be in humans.

TMJ disorder, rather than a singular disease process, seems to be a case of one thing leads to another, displaying a wily, misleading and bewildering procession of aches, pains and dysfunction. But, in lieu of prevention, proper diagnosis and treatment can halt its progression and release its tight grip.

Marty Metzger, a Fort Collins resident, has worked as a freelance writer for 23 years.


The booming gluten-free food industry is on the rise, raking in some $2.6 billion in profits each year. Proponents of the gluten-free diet claim it helps relieve

a wide range of symptoms, from allergies to stomach upsets to temper tantrums in children. But is going gluten-free a healthy choice or simply another fad being marketed for profit?

Gluten is a natural protein compound found in wheat, barley and rye. Its natural elasticity lends

pizza dough, bagels and other baked products their characteristic chewiness. Gluten-derivatives are also used to add texture to processed foods like ketchup and ice cream.

While gluten is generally safe to eat, it can be harmful to people with certain medical conditions. About 1 in 133 Americans suffers from celiac disease, an extreme form of gluten sensitivity that causes chronic inflammation of the digestive tract. In addition, people with wheat allergy may experience a life-threatening reaction to certain forms of gluten. Both conditions require a lifelong restrictive diet to control symptoms and prevent

complications.In recent years, some alternative medicine prac-

titioners have begun touting the health benefits of a gluten-free lifestyle to the general public. They argue that the human digestive system is better evolved to handle a hunter-gatherer’s diet of fresh meat and wild plants than cultivated crops like wheat. Some also argue that genetic engineering has increased the amount of protein in our grain supply. This has in turn increased the number of health problems experienced by gluten-sensitive individuals, including digestive disorders, head-aches, allergies, mood disorders and neurological symptoms like dizziness.

There is preliminary scientific evidence that a gluten-free approach may indeed improve health, at least for some people. Results of a 2011 study at the University of Maryland suggest that about 6 percent of our population experiences a type of primitive immune response to gluten. While this form of gluten intolerance is less severe than celiac disease, it may still be strong enough to cause symptoms; however, researchers caution against drawing broad conclusions from the data and emphasize that the study has yet to be replicated.

Fad diet books aside, a gluten-free diet is a major lifestyle change that poses certain health risks. “Most people get their B vitamins and fiber from gluten,” says Kimberly Wilkerson, RD, a dietitian at McKee Medical Center in Loveland. “All Americans are encouraged right now to get more fiber in their diets, and it’s very difficult to do that if you don’t have wheat and whole grains.”

Wilkerson adds that contrary to popular belief, the gluten-free diet doesn’t in itself promote weight loss. “It can be healthier in that you have to rely a lot more on fresh, whole foods,” she says. “But if you’re buying gluten-free baked products like brownies, breads or cookies, those are actually higher in calories than their counterparts made with wheat.”

Daniel Langer, M.D., Centers for Gastroenterol-ogy in Loveland, counsels patients against using the diet to self-medicate, particularly if they have symptoms consistent with celiac disease. Left untreated, this illness can increase the risk of malnutrition, osteoporosis, cancer and autoim-mune disease. Celiac symptoms can be quite subtle and often go undiagnosed. “That’s one of my reasonings with potential celiac patients – let’s confirm what this diagnosis is so we know how dedicated you need to be to a gluten-free diet,” Dr. Langer says.

Dr. Langer adds that following a gluten-free diet can eliminate some of the chemical mark-ers of celiac disease, making it more difficult to diagnose later. Patients who experience signifi-cant improvement in their symptoms while on a gluten-free diet should always be tested for the illness; however, this often involves reintroduc-ing gluten for a certain period in order to obtain accurate test results.

A truly gluten-free diet is very difficult to follow and requires considerable know-how. “Oftentimes it takes talking with a nutritionist to really analyze your diet in detail and to find those potential foods that could have some gluten contamination,” Dr. Langer says.

To begin with, patients must eliminate wheat, rye, barley and their many derivatives found in

NutritionweLLneSS

G L U T E N - F R E E F O O D S :

FAD OR FABULOUS? By saRah mauReR

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canned and packaged foods. “It’s almost to the point where it’s better not to eat processed foods and stick with fresh fruits, vegetables and meats,” says Wilkerson. Quinoa, rice, corn and pasta and flour products labeled “gluten-free” are also generally safe.

Gluten-free dieters must be vigilant about read-ing nutrition labels. Wilkerson provides patients with a list of over a hundred gluten-derived ingredients, including maltodextrin, modified food starch, caramel coloring, hydrolyzed vegetable protein and natural flavoring. In the future, she believes the FDA will require mandatory label-ing of gluten-free foods. For now, manufactur-ers must clearly label foods or ingredients that contain wheat.

Contamination is another common issue for gluten-free dieters. Oatmeal, for example, is often processed alongside wheat and therefore contains trace amounts of gluten. “Just a few milligrams can contaminate a batch of food,” Wilkerson says. “If an elephant had celiac and got a dose of gluten the size of the period at the end of this sentence, that would be enough to cause symptoms.”

Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness 2012

By Zac WormanChef at Bent Fork the Grill

1 pound Elk Sausage½ pound Gluten Free Macaroni2 large Poblano Peppers¼ Red Bell Pepper¼ Red Onion1 tsp. Chopped Garlic1 Corn Stalk (Yellow or White)¼ cup grated Pepper Jack Cheese1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream1 Tbsp. Olive OilSalt and Pepper to Taste

Green Chile Mac ‘n’ Cheese

Serves 4 to 6

For people with diagnosed celiac disease, following a gluten-free diet typically relieves constipation, diarrhea, bloating and other symp-toms within four to six weeks. More importantly, patients experience regeneration of their villi – the tiny, fingerlike projections that line the small intestine and aid in absorption of nutrients. Over time, this results in a return of energy and vitality, eliminates nutritional deficiencies and decreases the risk of illnesses such as osteoporosis and cancer.

It’s still uncertain how much relief people with other forms of gluten intolerance can expect on the diet, but anecdotal evidence suggests that symptoms should improve within a few weeks. And in time, gluten intolerant individuals who have ruled out celiac disease may be able to enjoy the occasional gluten-rich beer or bagel without causing themselves discomfort.

Sarah Maurer is a local freelance writer special-izing in health, real estate and outdoor sports. Catch up with Sarah on Twitter at @maurer_kg or online at www.blogspot.therecoveringexpat.com.

There is a fair amount of prep work to be done before assembling the dish, about one hour, but the end results are well worth it. Start by roasting the sausage in the oven at 350 degrees for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees. After cooked, cool sausage completely and slice in quarter inch rounds. While the sausage is cooking, roast the poblano peppers in a grill pan or char-broiler. Place the poblanos directly above the flame and evenly char the outside. Once charred, place in a bowl and cover with plastic wrap – this will allow the steam from the peppers to release the charred skin making them much easier to peel.

Gluten-Free

When the peppers are room temperature peel and de-seed. Reserve for later.

While the peppers are cooling, cook the pasta. In a medium saucepan, bring two quarts of water to a boil, add pasta, stir immediately and reduce heat to medium. The pasta should take 6-10 minutes, depending on which variety of gluten free pasta you choose. Rice based pasta takes a little longer than quinoa based pasta. Strain pasta and run cold water on it until it is completely cooled.

Now for the knife work. Dice the red bell pepper, red onion and ½ of one of the two roasted poblano peppers into ¼ inch pieces. Shuck the corn and cut the kernels from the stalk. Take the remaining 1½ poblanos and puree in a food processor to make a green paste.

To build the pasta, take a large sauté or non-stick skillet (18- to 24-inch) and heat oil until right before it starts to smoke. Add sausage until it starts to brown, add the corn next, then the red onion, red pepper and garlic. Cook for another 30-45 seconds. Once all ingredients start to caramelize, add poblano puree and heavy whipping cream. These become the base for the sauce. Reduce the cream by half; at this point add the pasta to the skillet. Fold the pasta and the remaining diced poblanos into the sauce. Garnish with pepper jack cheese and you’re ready to serve. Enjoy!


CholesterolweLLneSS

By coRey RadmanTRADITIONAL AND NON C H O L E S T E R O L T R E AT M E N T S :

A high total cholesterol level is a test result worth worrying about. When coupled with the other controllable risk factors for coronary heart

disease like obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes and smoking, the bells in your brain begin chiming an alarm. Years of bad habits have added up.

For most people with high LDL levels, food, movement and smoking cessation will take care of the problem. According to Dennis Larson, M.D., cardiologist from Heart Center of the Rockies, “Often all that’s required of a patient is a change in eating habits and weight.”

After time and multiple test values, if Dr. Larson’s patients are still at dangerous level, he recommends the use of statin medications like Lipitor. A practicing cardiologist since 1976, Dr. Larson points to over 30 years of safe statin use and disputes the idea that they may harm the liver. “Those concerns about liver damage are completely overdone.” Also, he believes that there is no LDL level that is too low. “In general

terms we have not seen any consequences of exceptionally low LDL, even with a full genera-tion of statin use. There doesn’t seem to be any bottom.”

He continues that he treats patients medically who aren’t ready to undergo radical life changes, “Usually, if a person has high blood pressure and a family history of heart disease, they cannot hit the [LDL] target without becoming a vegetarian… and most people just aren’t going to do that.”

However, for those who are ready to try some-thing different, there are other approaches.

NaturopathyLorraine Caron is a Naturopathic Doctor

(ND), practicing in Fort Collins. Her patients are a mix of adults and children. Naturopathic medicine honors the body’s innate wisdom to heal itself; thus, Dr. Caron works with people to unwind the bad habits or bad information to help return their health using food and herbal supplements as medicine.

She views a high cholesterol level as one piece of an overall puzzle. “My take is: perhaps [the high level] is a marker and that’s about all. As a naturopathic doctor, I take a broader picture of someone’s health in terms of car-diovascular, exercise, family history, weight and then HDL/LDL ratio. Really, I think there are other things to be more concerned about. That’s the tree, not the forest,” she says.

“You’re missing the point by taking a statin,” she continues. “The point is: what’s causing the arteries to be damaged? It’s a much more complex process.” Dr. Caron notes that a high total cholesterol level by itself doesn’t cause her to worry. An overall picture of a healthy or unhealthy lifestyle is what she

A qUICK REvIEW:• LDL is low-density lipoprotein cholesterol,

also called “bad” cholesterol. That’s the molecule that can cause plaque build up in your arteries.

• HDL is high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, also called “good” cholesterol. This molecule is the trash truck that removes LDLs from your blood; you want a higher HDL level.


looks for.As a rule, Dr. Caron looks carefully at diet

because food is usually the key to overall health. “Is there enough fiber, for example,” she questions. “High fiber foods and Omega3 fatty acids will lower overall total cholesterol,” explains Dr. Caron, but there are exceptions. “If someone has significant stomach upset, you can’t just blanket say, ‘You need more oatmeal.’ Steps have to be taken in a logical order.” This is why Dr. Caron suggests that people need to consult an expert (like an ND or a nutritionist) when radically altering their diet.

Asked about good sources of fiber? “If you chew and chew and there’s still a broom in there,” she jokes, “that’s good fiber.” Greens, for example, and whole fruits and vegetables instead of juices, and whole grains (like wheat berries and steel cut oats) rather than flour-based creations.

Dr. Caron’s takeaway message: “If you’re eating a whole-foods, organic diet, if your meat, egg and dairy animals are raised on the diet they’re intended to be eating, you have the very best chance of getting most all the nutrients you need.” She typically recommends that her patients take Magnesium and Vitamin D supplements, “because it’s very hard to get those two with most people’s diet.”

She continues, “We are whole bodies. One number on one test does not define your state of health. We [naturopaths] talk about being healthy, not about lowering cholesterol.”

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

Kristie Steinbock, MS, Licensed Acupunc-turist has been in private practice since 1993. Her Fort Collins-based business is Red Dragon Acupuncture, which offers healthcare from a Traditional Chinese Medicinal perspective.

Steinbock agrees with the prevailing wisdom. “In most cases (not all, but most) your cholesterol can be affected by diet and exercise. I am fortunate in my practice that most of the people who come here are already taking personal responsibility for their health-care. They have seen everybody else and noth-ing has worked, so they are in a place where personal responsibility is important to them.” That responsibility is a key component, she says. “How are you taking actions to support what is absolutely right for you?”

From a TCM perspective, high cholesterol is one symptom considered among many to achieve a differential diagnosis. Steinbock also considers factors like thyroid health, hormone levels, stress, dietary issues, diabetes, weight and exercise. (Though Steinbock is not a gym fan. “Dance, hike, move your body in pleasur-able ways, preferably outside so you’re getting Vitamin D,” she says.)

Again from a TCM perspective, each per-son’s specific diagnosis that takes high choles-terol into account will be different. Treatment, likewise, will be different but will use these basics: food as medicine, herbal supplements and acupuncture. Steinbock says, “There are different herbs we use to help the body come to homeostasis, to a balance. In the process


of doing that, cholesterol levels (as Western healthcare measures them) will normalize.”

Steinbock says about diet, “By far the big-gest offender is sugar. Anything that turns to glucose quickly, that gives you a spike… that in turn starts a chain effect. Over years of that kind of eating, we start to see things like diabetes.” (Another risk factor for heart disease.) General rule of thumb? “Don’t eat the white stuff… pastas, breads, even pota-toes, or at least leave the skin on to lower the glycemic index,” she recommends.

Steinbock also feels that mind/spiritual health is a crucial piece of overall wellness. “I like to ask people, ‘Are you having any fun?’” Often they don’t know. “There is a longing… sometimes their lives are leading them,” she reports. “As adults, we get embarrassed about or seem to forget about the need for play. Go ride your bike, or whatever it is that brings you happiness.”

She continues, “Think about the energetics of cholesterol. It’s a sticky, gooey substance that clings to the walls of your blood ves-sels… it’s a lack of flow, which is kind of a metaphor. You’re kind of stuck. So it’s fun to think about: ‘Are you stuck in any other way?’ And you may or may not be, but it’s interesting to ask the question and interesting to hear the answers.”

Steinbock encourages her patients to find their joy. She has even written a picture book about it, Teffie’s Travels. She believes that bringing fun into your life can restore balance, which is the key to health.

Lorraine Caron, ND, Fort Collins

Kristie Steinbock, MS, Licensed Acupuncturist, Red Dragon Acupuncture, Fort Collins


Chiropractic NeurologyShan Hager, D.C., CCCN and CPP is a doctor

of chiropractic and is certified as a chiropractic neurologist specializing in lifestyle disorders. His practice, Answers To Health, is based in Longmont. His viewpoint is almost exactly opposite of the mainstream thoughts on cholesterol.

He explains, “Cholesterol, as a molecule, is the basic foundation of almost every hormone in your body. Every cell needs cholesterol to be fluid … to bring in nutrients and water. Cholesterol is needed to help you to digest the foods you eat and is one of the basic building blocks for healing and repair.” In other words, it is vital to one’s overall health and wellbeing.

Dr. Hager says, “The current theory says there is an increased risk of heart disease if your choles-terol and LDL levels are high and HDLs are low. I agree that this is unhealthy, however, if your liver is producing abnormal levels of cholesterol and LDLs, it means you have a problem somewhere else in the body. We need to step back, evaluate the problem and stop blaming the molecule that is trying to help you.”

Dr. Hager says LDL molecules are transporters, carrying healing cholesterol and triglycerides to damaged tissue where they dump their contents to help rebuild tissue. The HDLs are the trash trucks that carry away the LDLs and damaged tissue, left over cholesterol and triglyceride bits to be disposed of via your liver, kidney and colon. His standard of care seeks to discover the source of the damaged tissue and treat that.

“I realize that suggesting high cholesterol levels are not associated with heart disease goes against current dogma,” Dr. Hager explains. “After looking at the evidence, I am convinced that we are going down the wrong path. I am not alone in thinking this way – there are more and more scientists and physicians that realize cholesterol, LDLs and certain types of saturated fat stand wrongly accused.”

He reasons, “If we have been eating saturated fat and cholesterol in the forms of animal fats, eggs, coconuts and full-fat dairy liberally for millen-nia and were heart disease free up until the early 1900s, then why would it be, just as we reduced our consumption of these foods and replaced them with sugar, vegetable oils and processed food, that heart disease rates began to climb? To me it seems that cholesterol as a cause for heart disease is analogous to saying, since we have a larger number of tall people who get cancer that being tall is the cause for cancer, which we all know is ludicrous.”

Treatment for high cholesterol levels with Dr. Hager includes natural therapies that address the underlying problem. He even looks for hormonal imbalances, nutritional deficiencies from digestion problems, immune system compromise, nerve system troubles and postural disproportions, which may be setting off a chain reaction that impact the organs.

“Each treatment varies per individual. Each person’s inflammation or diseased tissue has a different cause,” Dr. Hager says. It is clear that he is passionate in his search for answers.

Bottom LineThere are providers available for many dif-

ferent approaches to healthcare. For patients


who are interested in trying to manage their cholesterol without medication, support is avail-able. All the experts interviewed for this article recommend consulting an expert before radical diet and lifestyle change – both to make sure you get what you need, and to be sure you aren’t overlooking an underlying issue.

Whatever path you choose, follow Dr. Larson’s advice, “Don’t ignore it. I see patients all the time that had borderline high cholesterol levels for years and were working on it right up to their first heart attack.” At that point, the damage has been done. Prevention is best.

Shan Hager, D.C., Answers to Health, Longmont

Interviewed Provider Websites:

Dennis Larson, M.D.www.pvhs.org/heartcenter

Lorraine Caron, NDwww.drlorrainecaron.com

Kristie Steinbock, L.Ac.www.reddragonacu.com

Shan Hager, D.C.www.answerstohealth.com

Corey Radman is a regular contributor to Style Magazine and Northern Colorado Medical & Well-ness. Her website is www.fortcollinswriter.com.


ACTIVE SENIORS • HEALTH • ACTIVITIES • RECREATION • WELLNESS • SERVICES


FOUR UNExPECTED SOURCES O F N U T R I T I O N

Want to eat healthier foods but just can’t stomach the thought of another cup of raw, colon-loving broccoli? Do you think kale is better

suited for rabbits than humans?

If we were to be completely honest, many of us would admit that the healthiest foods don’t necessarily make our mouths water. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if there were other, tastier alternatives that offered more flavor with their fiber? Here is a short list of foods that can allow for an occasional departure from doctor’s orders without derailing our desire to eat right.

PopcornThis classic movie theater treat is better for you

than you thought, especially if you try options besides high calorie butter.

According to research from the University of Scranton in Pennsylvania, popcorn delivers a high amount of the antioxidant polyphenol. In fact, the study states, gram for gram, popcorn delivers three times more polyphenols than kidney beans (the highest vegetable polyphenol source) and four times more than cranberries (the highest fruit source).

Michelle Milholland, MS, RD, assistant director, and Rachel Scanlan, BS, RD, registered dietician, both at the Kendall Anderson Nutrition Center at Colorado State University, collaborate on the different options for your nutrition needs.

They suggest how air-popped popcorn is

beneficial.“Air-popped popcorn is a great snack,” the pair

says. “It is low in calories but high in fiber, therefore very filling. Polyphenols are antioxidants and foods high in polyphenols include berries, onions, tea, red wine and soybeans.”

This polyphenol is a great antioxidant that actu-ally regulates cholesterol; this leaves those who eat plenty of whole grains with a lowered risk of heart disease.

This antioxidant removes nasty free radicals, chemicals that can damage tissue and cells, which leaves the body healthier and stronger.

Be sure to avoid high butter content popcorn and microwave popcorn. Microwaveable pop-corn often contains the chemical diacetyl, which is thought to be toxic when inhaled repeatedly.

Air-popped and stovetop popcorn are versatile enough that you can add any combination of other, healthier choices to make the treat delectable. Try popcorn with a drizzle of olive oil, truffle salt and finely grated Parmesan cheese. Be moderate, however, and remember a little flavoring goes a long way. You don’t want to ruin a healthy snack by adding too much fat and sodium.

Peanut ButterYes, even the PB in your child’s PB&J sandwiches

hosts heart healthy benefits. According to a study by Purdue University, people

who ate 500 calories of peanuts a day for eight weeks had significant drops in triglyceride levels, a risk factor for heart disease, while their intake

of heart-healthy nutrients increased. “Peanuts are a source of monounsaturated

fat, which can reduce the amount of LDL or ‘bad’ cholesterol in your blood,” Milholland and Scan-lan explain. “If consumed in moderate amounts, especially in place of saturated or trans fat, this can lower your risk of heart disease and stroke.”

The secret is the monounsaturated and poly-unsaturated fats in the peanuts that have proven to lower cholesterol.

The pair emphasizes that what kind of peanut butter you choose at the store is important.

“Not all peanut butters are created equal,” they say. “Many have added sugar and hydrogenated oils. It’s best to look for natural, unsweetened varieties.”

Unlike so many other nutrition options, peanut butter is easy to incorporate into any food combi-nation, like oatmeal, smoothies and on vegetables like celery.

NutellaThat indulgent, sweet chocolate and hazelnut

spread you treat yourself with on toast also hosts benefits.

All Women Talk Health says that Nutella is high in slow release protein, calcium and iron, which can help you feel full longer. That is not the only benefit; the hazelnuts in the spread provide vitamin E to boost immunity and B vitamins for energy production and mood regulation, and, just like peanut butter, are an excellent source of heart-healthy polyunsaturated and monounsaturated

By loGan maRTinez


G e t F i t, G i v e B a c k calendar

Staying active benefits your health and these events, by supporting local non-profits, also benefit the community. So, train for that foot race or bike race and make a difference.

may 12, 2012Run for more than fun, run for orphans.

Run for Orphans is an event that encourages residents to get out and

support local adoption agencies assisting children toward finding a

new family and home. The top three finishers in each age group are given prizes, but everyone receives a t-shirt

for entering.

Run for Orphans is sponsored by the Northern Colorado Christian alliance for Orphans and is an ally with local agen-cies, including Fort Collins matthews House, Northern Colorado’s Finally

Home Foundation and Windsor’s adopt Colorado Kids, as well as other orga-nizations to aid orphans in places like

Haiti, Kenya and Nepal.

When: may 12, 2012Where: The Ranch – Larimer County

Fairgrounds5280 arena Circle, Loveland

What: Kids 1 mile Run, 8 a.m.5K, 8:30 a.m.

Preregister before may 1 online at www.RunForOrphansRace.org or

in person at Runners Roost 2720 Council Tree ave. Suite 112, Fort Collins

March

4 – t2 coaching indoor triathlon, all day, Fort Collins Club, Fort Collins, www.t2coaching.com

17 – Sharin’ O’ the Green 5K Run/Walk, 8:30 a.m., Library Park, Fort Collins, benefitting Part-ners Mentoring Youth, www.partnersmentor-ingyouth.org

25 – 4th Annual JourneyQuest 5K Run/Walk, 10 a.m., Fort Collins Club, Fort Collins, benefitting Shared Journeys Brain Injury Foundation, www.sharedjourneysfoundation.org

april

4 – Safe Harbor 10K Run/5K Run-Walk, 7:30 a.m., Life Care Center of Greeley, Greeley, search Greeley, CO on www.active.com

15 – 4th Annual Flying Pig Charity Run/Walk, 8:30 a.m., Spring Canyon Park, Fort Collins, benefits the Family Support Services Program, www.foot-hillsgateway.org

22 – Horsetooth Half Marathon, 8:30 a.m., CSU Hughes Stadium, Fort Collins, www.horsetooth-halfmarathon.com

28 – March For Babies, 9 a.m., Edora Park, Fort Collins, www.marchforbabies.org

28 – March For Babies, 9:30 a.m., Bittersweet Park, Greeley, www.marchforbabies.org

May

5 – Cinco-Cinco 5K Run/Walk, 8:30 a.m., The Oval at CSU, Fort Collins, in memory of Gil Gutierrez, CSU Ombudsman, www.cincocinco.colostate.edu

6 – Colorado Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K & 5K, 6:15 a.m. and 7 a.m., Bus Pickup, Fort Col-lins, benefits multiple area non-profits, www.thecoloradomarathon.com

12 – Run for Orphans Kids 1 mile run and 5K, 8 a.m., The Ranch-Larimer County Fairgrounds, Loveland, www.runfororphansrace.org

12 – Quad Rock 25/50 mile run, 5 a.m., Lory State Park, Fort Collins, www.gnarrunners.com

13 – Crazy Legs 10K, 7 a.m., start line TBA, Loveland, to promote non-pavement races, www.crazylegsraceseries.info

20 – Community Classic Bike Tour, 6:30 a.m., McKee Medical Center, Loveland, benefitting health and wellness of the community. Search Community Classic Bike Tour at www.banner-health.com

26 – Fort Collins Children’s Triathlon and Family Fun, 6 a.m., O’Dea Core Knowledge Elementary, Fort Collins, www.fortcollinschildrenstriathlon.com

26 – 5th Annual Sleigh Riders Motorcycle Toy Run, 11 a.m., Centennial Park, Greeley, www.srtoyrun.com, benefitting Santa Cops of Weld County

fats that lower cholesterol levels.Meanwhile, the cocoa contains antioxidants

that help balance blood pressure and reduce blood clotting.

Though, according to Milholland and Scanlan, eating a handful of hazelnuts and dark chocolate is a better choice than name brand Nutella spread.

“The first two ingredients in Nutella are sugar and vegetable oil,” they say. “It does include hazel-nuts and cocoa, but you’d be better off eating a small handful of hazelnuts and 1oz. of dark chocolate instead of all the added sugar and fat.”

Style recommends trying a homemade recipe for this hazelnut and chocolate spread, offering the options of Nutella, without those added sugars. A quick recipe requires hazelnuts, unsweetened cocoa powder, powdered sugar and hazelnut oil. Grind the hazelnuts in a food processor until processed evenly, then add the other ingredients until it has a peanut butter consistency and refrig-erate to thicken.

Baked BeansThis perfect side at every barbecue can also keep

you running around with the kids that much longer.Baked beans, with its combination of high pro-

tein and low-GI carbohydrates, keep your muscles and bones healthy as well as keeping you full longer.

The Daily Mail, a United Kingdom based news magazine, says that along with keeping your blood sugar steady, the fatty acids are thought to nour-ish your colon lining and protect it from cancer. Also, it adds that an 80-gram portion constitutes around a fifth of a woman’s recommended daily intake of fiber, a tenth of her protein and a quarter of her iron.

“Beans are high in protein and fiber, but low in fat,” Milholland and Scanlan say. “This can help you feel full longer, and may decrease blood cholesterol and reduce your risk of heart disease and some cancers. Canned baked beans have added sugar and calories, so a better choice would be to use low sodium canned beans or dry beans instead.”

Beans count towards your recommended five portions of fruit and veggies a day, with one por-tion measuring about three heaping tablespoons.

So at your next family potluck, be sure to be the one who brings the baked beans.

Find Your OwnWhen at the market looking for those nutritious

foods keep an eye on the nutrition label. Avoid foods listing sucrose, or other versions of the word, as the first ingredient. This indicates that it is lower in sugars and will have more of those healthier ingredients.

To feel full longer, be sure to eat foods with soluble fiber, like oatmeal, apples, oranges, beans and strawberries. To keep food from condensing in the stomach, eat food with insoluble fiber, like nuts, whole grain, tomatoes, grapes and root veggies.

For diabetes patients, Milholland and Scanlan recommend keeping it balanced and nutritious.

“Those with diabetes should follow a balanced, healthful diet including whole grains, fruit, veg-etables, lean protein and low-fat dairy.”

Logan Martinez is a sophomore studying Journal-ism at Colorado State University. To see more of her work, follow her at logansmess.blogspot.com.


Mom’s Groups Offer By TRacee sioux

Watching a brand new baby marvel at the color yellow and taste a blade of grass for the first time makes the human experience bright and delicious again. Paradoxically, feeling trapped at home with someone who screams when they are hungry and full, tired and energetic, hot and cold, bored and over-stimulated is enough to make an intelligent, competent woman resort to toddler-like emotional outbursts.

Whether you’re new to town or just new to the topsy-turvy world of motherhood a

“mommy group” can be a literal lifesaver. A mothers group can be your entrance into the Sorority of Motherhood, where the secret handshake gets you in the room with the veteran mamas who will let you in on their never-fail maternal secrets that will get that baby to sleep through the night and make that toddler stop biting. A mom group is the place where you bask in adult conversation and have an excuse to put on make-up and something other than well-worn yoga pants.

“I thought it would be a good place to meet people and they were all moms with kids Tobin’s age,” says Hanna Lopez. Lopez has attended

the LifePointe MOPs (Mothers of Preschoolers) group since moving to Fort Collins in 2010. “It’s fun and they have a lot of speakers that talk about different subjects having to do with childcare, so I’ve learned a lot.”

Northern Colorado has several mothers groups to choose from. Groups organize themselves around everything from work-style choices (stay-at-home mom, work-at-home mom, full-time working mom and part-time working mom) to schooling choices (home school, private school, public school) to sexual preference (gay, lesbian, straight), religious affil-iation (secular, Christian, Jewish, new thought), marital status (divorced, single, teen parent), hobbies (hiking, book clubs, scrapbooking), parenting style (breastfeeding, attachment parenting), special needs (autism, ADD, ADHD, gifted, multiples), location and age of children.

Finding the group that’s right for you isn’t as hard as breastfeeding or sleep-training, though there are many choices. Notices are frequently posted at pediatrician and obste-trician offices, hospitals, churches and other community areas. Some groups, like MOPS, MOMS Club and NoCoTots are highly orga-nized affairs. Some boast membership guide-lines, annual dues, paid childcare workers and educational offerings. Other groups are just looking for a Chick-fil-A with a playground. Google, Facebook and Meetup.com are great sifting tools.

Sympathetic Ear

It is 3 p.m. on a Wednesday afternoon and your 11-year-old just landed his backpack on the kitchen counter. He’s hungry and is advancing on the pantry, ready to strike.

Let’s face it; your child is not interested in an apple. He wants something that will satiate his afternoon hunger and keep him till dinner. But while you may congratulate yourself on not stocking the pantry with candy bars, Twinkies and worthless sugary items, you may not even be aware of the true sugar content of other, “healthier” snacks.

Take, for instance, cereal. This favorite kid snack could be guilty of packing in more sugar than many cookies. In December 2011 the Environmental Working Group published a report that revealed some children’s cere-als contained more sugar than a Hostess Twinkie. The worst offender was Kellogg’s Honey Smacks, which contained nearly 56 percent sugar by weight. The report also found that only one in four children’s cereals contained less than 26 percent added sugar by weight, the proposed voluntary guideline set forth by the federal Interagency Working Group on Food Marketed to Children. To

see the entire report, visit www.ewg.org. Furthermore, a January 2011 report

released by the Prevention Institute found that 90 percent of the snack foods studied that are marketed towards children are high in sugar and low in fiber. And foods and beverages like protein bars, granola, tomato sauce, sweetened iced teas, dried fruits and sports drinks have been called out for containing 10 to 56 grams of sugar per serving.

“The USDA recommends no more than 10 percent of kids’ daily calories as sugar,” explains Melissa Wdowik, PhD, RD, director of the Kendall Anderson Nutrition Center in the Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition at Colorado State University. “That would be 120 to 140 calories, or 30 to 35 grams (7.5 to 8.5 teaspoons) per day.” She adds that teenagers can add a little more sugar into their diets than younger children, but they should not regularly consume soda, which contains 10 to 12 teaspoons of sugar in one can.

Wdowik recommends that parents limit their children’s sugar to no more than 12 grams in one serving in foods that do not naturally have sugar. She adds that many drinks marketed as healthful, such as sports drinks, energy drinks and fruit drinks, should be eliminated from all children’s diets with the exception of sports drinks after long bouts of exercise.

By anGeline GRenz

Hidden Sugars Invade Snack Time

family focus

5757Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness 2012 57

The Popular CrowdsNoCoTots (www.nocotots.com) is one of

Northern Colorado’s largest mom’s groups organizing three regular meetings a week, mom’s night outs, Business Mom’s Coffee-Playdates, Dad’s Night Out, Family Playdates and Family Adventures. Their extensive list of activities can be found on their Meetup.com page.

“We have sponsors on our Meetup.com page and our website so we can operate without charging our members,” says co-owner Robben George. “My co-owner Kim and I met through NoCoTots and we’ve met so many wonderful people that when the owner moved away we bought it to keep the resource alive for parents. We just didn’t want it to go away.”

MOPs (www.mops.org), an international organization bringing together mothers of preschoolers, has quite a few groups in Northern Colorado. The group itself is not religious, but meetings are frequently held in local churches. Educational lectures, lunch and childcare are frequently offered. There is a nominal annual membership fee and mothers pay for childcare.

MOMs Club (www.fcmomswest.com, www.momscluboffortcollinseast.weebly.com) is a national organization that arranges weekly play dates for like-aged children, Mom’s Night Outs, date nights, a babysitting co-op, annual

Other recommendations Wdowik offers: • Cereal bars and granola bars are often

like cookies in disguise; Wdowik rec-ommends whole-wheat fig bars or homemade oatmeal raisin bars instead.

• Yogurt isoften fullof sugar,asaresmoothie-type products. Instead, try Greek yogurt or unsweetened yogurt with fruit added.

• Rather thancanned fruit in syrup,Wdowik recommends fruit canned in juice.

• Finally, says Wdowik, sweetenedapplesauce is worse than a dessert. Try unsweetened applesauce or better yet, an apple.

There are steps parents can take to become savvier about food packaging. Wdowik first sug-gests parents should read the ingredients list and watch for sugar in all its forms: sugar, brown sugar, corn syrup, dextrose, fructose, high fructose corn syrup, honey, malt syrup, maltose, molasses and sucrose.

The next step for parents is to present “whole foods with a positive attitude, rather than an atti-tude of deprivation or punishment,” she says. The entire family should make an effort to eat more healthfully. Parents take the lead by not buying

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family focus

e v e n t s i n n o r t h e r n c o l o r a d o

march

2 – First Friday: A Night of Art, Downtown Greeley, Greeley, 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., www.gree-leydowntown.com

2 – Snowmen Sculptures, 2 to 6 years old, Love-land Museum/Gallery Sequel Building, Love-land, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., $8 per child, an adult must accompany child during session, www.ci.loveland.co.us

5 and 6 – Read and Seed, 2 to 4 year olds, The Gardens on Spring Creek, Fort Collins, 10 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. or 11 a.m. to 11:45 a.m., $3 per child, no pre-registration required, www.fcgov.com

7 – Flower Bouquets, grades K through 5, Love-land Museum/Gallery Sequel Building, Loveland, 3 p.m. to 4 p.m., $20 per child, www.ci.loveland.co.us

8 – Pastels: Baby Animals, 12 years old and up, Loveland Museum/Gallery Sequel Building, Loveland, 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., $30 per child, www.ci.loveland.co.us

9 – Twinkle Babies story time, newborn children to toddlers and adult caregivers, Lincoln Park Library, Greeley, 10:30 a.m. to 11 a.m., recurs every Friday at 10:30 a.m., www.greeleydown-town.com

9 – Color Mixing, 2 to 6 years old, Loveland Museum/Gallery Sequel Building, Loveland, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., $8 per child, an adult must accompany child during session, www.ci.loveland.co.us

9 and 10 – Cosmic Skating, family event, Greeley Ice Haus, Greeley, 7:15 p.m. to 8:45 p.m., recurs every Friday and Saturday night at 7:15 p.m., www.greeleydowntown.com

april

1 – Registration opens for Mountain Kids Summer Camp, 5 to 12 years old, Mountain Kids, Fort Col-lins, Camp Dates: June 4 through Aug. 17, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., $50 per child, www.mountain-kids.com

2 - 6 – 2012 Spring Break Day Camp, grades 1 through 5, Chilson Center, Loveland, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., $38 per child, www.cityofloveland.org

3 - 5 – Spring Break Artistic Adventure, grades 1 through 6, Loveland Museum/Gallery Sequel Building, Loveland, 10:30 a.m., to 2:30 p.m., $75 per child, register one week prior to class, www.ci.loveland.co.us

6 – Easter Eggstravaganza, 3 to 5 year olds, Windsor Community Center, Windsor, 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., $3 pre-registration or $5 day-of registration, www.windsorgov.com

6 – First Friday: A Night of Art, Downtown Greeley, Greeley, 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., www.greeleydown-town.com

6 – Creative Collages, 2 to 6 years old, Loveland Museum/Gallery Sequel Building, Loveland, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., $8 per child, an adult must accompany child during session, www.ci.loveland.co.us

7 – Youth Art Class: All Aboard, grades 1 through 6, Loveland Museum/Gallery Sequel Building, Loveland, 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., $20 per child, www.ci.loveland.co.us

11 – Springtime Prints, grades K through 5, Love-land Museum/Gallery Sequel Building, Loveland, 3 p.m. to 4 p.m., $20 per child, www.ci.loveland.co.us

12 – Acrylic: Van Gogh Expressionism, 12 years old and up, Loveland Museum/Gallery Sequel Building,

12 - 16 – Spring Break Camp, 6 to 11 year olds, The Gardens on Spring Creek, Fort Collins, 9 a.m. to noon, $115 with family membership or $125 for non-members, www.fcgov.com/gardens

14 – Family Story Time, preschool to pre-K, Lincoln Park Library, Greeley, 10 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., recurs every Wednesday at 10:30 a.m., www.greeleydowntown.com

14 –3-D Tropic Scape, grades K through 5, Loveland Museum/Gallery Sequel Building, Loveland, 3 p.m. to 4 p.m., $20 per child, www.ci.loveland.co.us

13 - 15 – Fairy Garden Camp, 6 to 11 year olds, The Gardens on Spring Creek, Fort Collins, 1 to 3 p.m., $60 with family membership or $70 for non-members, www.fcgov.com/gardens

16 – Rainbow Painting, 2 to 6 years old, Loveland Museum/Gallery Sequel Building, Loveland, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., $8 per child, an adult must accompany child during session, www.ci.loveland.co.us

18 – Return of the Jedi: Star Wars Extrava-ganza, Rialto Theater, Loveland, 2 p.m. or 7 p.m., $8 for adults and $5 for children, www.rialtoloveland.ticketforce.com

19 – Homework Help Night, grades 5 through 12, Lincoln Park Library, Greeley, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., recurs every Monday afternoon at 4 p.m., www.greeleydowntown.com

21 –Sculpting: Playing with your Food, grades K through 5, Loveland Museum/Gallery Sequel Building, Loveland, 3 p.m. to 4 p.m., $20 per child, www.ci.loveland.co.us

23 – Lily Pad Frogs, 2 to 6 years old, Love-land Museum/Gallery Sequel Building, Love-land, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., $8 per child, an adult must accompany child during session, www.ci.loveland.co.us

27 – Out of School Day Camp: Trip to the Tropics, 5 to 9 years old, Butterfly Pavilion, Westminster, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., $40 per child, www.butterflies.org

28 – Miniature Sand Paintings, grades K through 5, Loveland Museum/Gallery Sequel Building, Loveland, 3 p.m. to 4 p.m., $20 per child, www.ci.loveland.co.us

29 – Out of School Day Camp: Bugs Around the World, 5 to 9 years old, Butterfly Pavilion, Westminster, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., $40 per child, www.butterflies.org

30 – Signs of Spring, 2 to 6 years old, Love-land Museum/Gallery Sequel Building, Love-land, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., $8 per child, an adult must accompany child during session, www.ci.loveland.co.us

Spring awakens in all of us the need to try something new and family-friendly

activities abound in Northern Colorado this season. Take a look and find something

fun for your next family outing.

5959Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness 2012Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness 2012 59

kids • play • fun • health • activities


Loveland, 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., $30 per child, www.ci.loveland.co.us

13 – Paint Exploration, 2 to 6 years old, Loveland Museum/Gallery Sequel Building, Loveland, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., $8 per child, an adult must accompany child during session, www.ci.loveland.co.us

18 – Clay Creations, grades K through 5, Loveland Museum/Gallery Sequel Building, Loveland, 3 p.m. to 4 p.m., $20 per child, www.ci.loveland.co.us

20 – Gooey Madness, 2 to 6 years old, Loveland Museum/Gallery Sequel Building, Loveland, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., $8 per child, an adult must accompany child during session, www.ci.loveland.co.us

21 – Stuart Little, Lincoln Center Performance Hall, Fort Collins, 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., $8 to $10, www.fcgov.com

25 – 3D City Scape, grades K through 5, Loveland Museum/Gallery Sequel Building, Loveland, 3 p.m. to 4 p.m., $20 per child, www.ci.loveland.co.us

27 – April Showers Bring May Flowers, 2 to 6 years old, Loveland Museum/Gallery Sequel Building, Loveland, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., $8 per child, an adult must accompany child during session, www.ci.loveland.co.us

27, 28 and 29 – Sleeping Beauty, Lincoln Center Performance Hall, Fort Collins, 2 p.m. or 7 p.m., $20 to $25, www.fcgov.com

may

2 – Sand Sculpting, grades K through 5, Love-land Museum/Gallery Sequel Building, Love-land, 3 p.m. to 4 p.m., $20 per child, www.ci.loveland.co.us

4 – Mother’s Day Keepsake, 2 to 6 years old, Loveland Museum/Gallery Sequel Building, Loveland, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., $8 per child, an adult must accompany child during session, www.ci.loveland.co.us

4 – First Friday: A Night of Art, Downtown Greeley, Greeley, 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., www.greeleydowntown.com

9 – Watercolor: Butterflies & Blossoms, grades K through 5, Loveland Museum/Gallery Sequel Building, Loveland, 3 p.m. to 4 p.m., $20 per child, www.ci.loveland.co.us/index

10 – Watercolors: Fresh Floral, 12 years old and up, Loveland Museum/Gallery Sequel Building, Loveland, 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., $30 per child, www.ci.loveland.co.us

11 – Touch and Feel, 2 to 6 years old, Loveland Museum/Gallery Sequel Building, Loveland, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., $8 per child, an adult must accompany child during session, www.ci.loveland.co.us

16 – Painted Flower Pots, grades K through

5, Loveland Museum/Gallery Sequel Building, Loveland, 3 p.m. to 4 p.m., $20 per child, www.ci.loveland.co.us

18 – Magical Dots, 2 to 6 years old, Loveland Museum/Gallery Sequel Building, Loveland, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., $8 per child, an adult must accompany child during session, www.ci.loveland.co.us

23 - 27 – Loveland Sports Camp, 6 to 12 year olds, Thompson R2J School District Students Only, Thompson Valley High School, Loveland, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., $125 per child, www.lovelandsportscamp.com

28 - June 1 – CSU Field Sports Youth Camp, grades K through 8, Moby B Complex Atrium, Fort Collins, $155 per child, www.hes.cahs.colostate.edu

29 - June 1 – Boulder Summer Camp Session 1, 9 to 13 years old, The Magic Playhouse, Boulder, $295 per child, registration open now, www.theaterforkids.net


parties and more. Mother and child groups of five to seven children are grouped together. Weekly play dates are held in private homes, with moms rotating as host.

“My kids have been with the same group of kids for years now and it’s nice having a group of moms with kids the same age to get feed-back and ideas from,” says Lisa Chandler, co-president of the Fort Collins West MOMs Club.

Membership information and times of several groups can be found at Meetup.com, including Greeley Playgroup for Moms & Kids, Greeley Moms Against Boredom, Northern Colorado Baby Book and Sprinkle Club, and Fort Collins/Loveland Christian Moms and Tots Playgroup. Secular Families, NoCo Single Parent Families and Social Group for Lesbians in Colorado (S.I.L.K.) also offer parent and child activities on Meetup.com.

Searching Facebook you will find 30 Some-thing Northern Colorado Moms, Mom’s Night Out, Fort Collins Moms and others. A Google search netted Fort Collins Parents of Multiples (www.twinntriplets.com).

The hardest step, of course, is walking into a group of strangers you’ve never met before, hoping and praying they will like you and the wailing diminutive human tagging along. Don’t worry, you’re walking into a room full of women who also smell like spitup and haven’t had a good night’s sleep in two years. You’ll feel better knowing you’re not alone in the Sorority of Motherhood.

Tracee Sioux is the author of Love Distortion: Belle, Battered Codependent and Other Love Stories and has writes at The Girl Revolution, she’s lives by her pen in Northern Colorado.

buying or eating junk food. “They have to model eating wholesome foods, not use food as a reward and not talk about dieting. It’s all about eating foods that are good for our bodies.”

Wdowik recommends keeping a variety of healthful foods around, such as string cheese, fruits, vegetables with dip (try different shapes and colors, not boring celery), whole grain crackers, wholesome cereal with milk, “even half a peanut butter and jelly with the crust cut off makes a good snack.”

According to Rachel Scanlan, RD, at the Kendall Anderson Nutrition Center, parents should also try to include protein and carbo-hydrates with every meal and snack. Examples include whole-wheat tortillas with peanut butter, dried fruit and nuts, string cheese and crackers, etc.

Scanlan, in her handout entitled “Manag-ing Your Child’s Nutrition,” reminds parents, “You are in control. You have the responsibil-ity to provide your child with healthful foods.”

For more information about nutrition visit the Kendall Anderson Nutrition Center’s website at www.nutritioncenter.colostate.edu or the USDA’s website, www.choosemyplate.gov.




By michelle VenusMUST LOvE DOGS

RescuesveterInAry

It’s hard to get around Northern Colorado without running into dogs. You’ll find them on trails, running alongside their bike-riding owners, taking walks through neighborhoods and in the many dog

parks scattered about. They even have their own 5K races. Downtown businesses often have water bowls outside their storefronts so our furry friends can belly up to the bar. Yup, we sure do love our dogs.

But what about those dogs who for any number of reasons are put up for adoption? How are they placed in suitable homes and what is that process? Who takes care of these animals while they wait for their new homes? The answers lie with local rescue organizations run by dedicated animal lovers.

Before adopting a rescue dog, it’s important to take the time to carefully consider your abil-ity to be a responsible dog owner. Not only do you need to look at the costs, you need to make sure the breed will fit your home. And we’re not just talking about the size of your home and whether or not the backyard is fenced in; other animals and family members must be factored into the total equation as well.

Marcie Willms, community relations man-ager with the Larimer Humane Society points to their program Meet Your Match (MYM), developed by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), to help ensure that adopters and adoptees are compatible. MYM uses a survey – not unlike those created for human online dating services – to find the right dog for the right owner.

Questions start with the basics: Have you ever owned a dog before? How old were you the last time you had a dog? Then they dig a little deeper with personality traits: How many hours a day will the animal be home alone and who are the other household members, both human and animal?

Once the survey has been completed, the new pet owner is matched to a dog based on its canine-ality. The dogs are grouped into three categories by color: purple for easy maintenance animals, orange for average and green for dogs that are high maintenance. “This program has been very successful for us,” states Willms.

Animal House co-founder Sandra Risler says, “We get to know our animals really, really well and spend a good amount of time with

6363Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness 2012 63

prospective owners. We ask a lot of questions and can help guide them (the new owners) to the right pet for them and their lifestyles.” Adopters are required to complete an applica-tion form, which is thoroughly reviewed before the adoption process commences.

“We are a no-kill shelter,” explains Risler. “We firmly believe that all the animals here are adoptable. We offer them a second chance that they might not get in a shelter that eutha-nizes their populations, often due to time and resources. We work hard to build awareness and educate folks about shelters, that they are a wonderful first place to go when they want to add a pet to their family.”

Risler goes on to discuss the extensive foster care network that Animal House has developed. “Not every animal is going to be good in a shelter, and it could be due to their history (of abuse or neglect) or some health issues. Our foster families give these dogs a loving place to live until a forever home is found for them.”

Until that forever home is found, it’s expen-sive to maintain an animal shelter. That’s where adoption fees come in. These fees cover vac-cinations, neutering or spaying, often micro-chipping and many times a complimentary first visit to a veterinarian.

Dr. Amy Gane of Southmarch Veterinary Hospital in Loveland has been working with rescue dogs throughout her career, and adopted two of her own. “First there’s Bucky, a Greyhound who was my walking partner all through veterinary school but who was con-sidered ‘surplus’ by our local racing industry. He was a delightful and entertaining dog. He always seemed grateful to be cared for and loved. Sammy was a Rottweiler mix who had been surrendered when a couple was going through a divorce. She is by far the smartest dog anyone in our family has ever had. And she’s beautiful!”

Dr. Gane has advice for people looking to adopt a dog: “I would recommend looking for a vet who is willing to listen to your concerns and who is interested in finding out the history of the dog, if at all possible. I would also find someone who knows the breed, possibly even before adopting the pet. If you are a couch potato, it would be better to get a quiet, lazy dog and not, say, a Jack Russell.

“If, on the other hand, you want to spend a lot of time hiking or backpacking, finding a healthy Labrador Retriever might be just the match for you. I think a mistake people often make is not finding out about the potential health problems of a breed before adopting. Many people purchase a dog for hundreds or even thousands of dollars, only to find out that the dog will cost them the buying price year after year due to some allergy problem or other chronic illness that is known to occur in a specific breed.”

If you’ve done your research and you know that a particular breed is right for you, you may want to consider working with a breed-specific rescue. The All Breed Rescue Network (www.allbreedrescuenetwork.com) is a good place to start. Based in Lakewood, they provide detailed information about available dogs

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and have links to breed-specific rescue sites. Nicole Deubach is Northern Colorado’s con-

tact with High Country Basset Hound Rescue and Adoption Service. High Country services all of Colorado, but most of the available dogs are along the Front Range.

“This part of Colorado is more densely populated, so we often have between 20 and 30 available Bassets,” Debauch says. “The dogs live with foster families until they’re placed. We schedule several fundraisers every year, such as dog washes, but for the most part the foster families pay for most of the expenses.” High Country owns each animal until it’s adopted and pays for medical expenses, but food, toys and any other costs are donated by the foster home.

“We also have fun events, like our annual Basset picnic in City Park,” says Deubach. “It’s a hoot, seeing all these Bassets running around and playing with each other.” Visit High Country’s website or Facebook page to find out more about their Basset hound rescue and this year’s social events, www.

coloradobassetrescue.com. Keep in mind, most breed-specific rescues

require an application process, a home visit and some even require a home with a fenced yard. Discuss all requirements with the indi-vidual rescue. Adoption fees for breed-specific shelters cost anywhere from $100 to $300 and the cost helps to support the rescue and cover the costs of veterinary care and spaying and neutering.

Next time you’re in the market for a new pet, think adoption first. You’ll be providing a home to a family member that will love you unconditionally. You could be that dog’s winning lottery ticket. And that’s a lottery worth winning.

Michelle Venus is a freelance writer who works and lives in Fort Collins with her children and two dogs, one a rescue mutt and the other a Basset hound.

Adoptable Basset hounds surround Nicole Deubach, the Northern Colorado contact for the High Country Basset Hound Rescue and Adoption Service.


65By anGeline GRenzBRUNO’S STORY

Bruno’s journey from paralysis back to good health is an inspir-ing one. It is a tale that brings together the hard work of local veterinarians, the dedication of

fellow animal lovers and the big heart of one lovable Saint Bernard.

Bruno’s health was challenged early in his life. At around 8 months old, Bruno fell out of the back of a pickup truck, breaking his right femur. His owner at the time could not afford proper care and eventually released Bruno to the Saint Bernard rescue. In the meantime, Bruno healed with his right rear leg shorter than the others.

About a year later a Northern Colorado family adopted Bruno. At that time he began to experi-ence a weakness that his new family assumed was related to his bad leg. Eventually the weakness progressed to complete paralysis. He was taken to a local pet hospital and diagnosed with canine Wobbler’s disease, a condition where the neck vertebrae are malformed and unstable.

Surgery was performed, but Bruno was left in worse condition post-op than when he had arrived. The owners turned to Fort Collins Vet-erinary Emergency and Rehabilitation Hospital for help with his rehabilitation.

“The owners [who were leaving the country] gave us one week to help Bruno,” recalls Jessica Rychel, DVM. One week was not enough to impact Bruno’s health, but it turned out to be plenty of time to get the hospital staff hooked.

“Euthanizing him would have been devastating for everybody. We decided to take Bruno on as a hospital project,” says Dr. Rychel. The owners agreed to relinquish Bruno to the hospital for reha-bilitation and his miracle transformation began.

Over the next five months, Bruno’s quality of life took a turn for the better. The undertaking, especially in the beginning months, was no small thing. It took three to four staff members to move Bruno from place to place. The staff initially began by placing Bruno in the center of the hospital, where he could see people and animals coming and going. The first change they began to notice was his attitude. Bruno began to rally, becoming interested in the activ-ity around him.

Physical therapy began as well. Every day, three times a day, staff, vet students and hospital clients would take Bruno outside to practice walking. The dedication was enormous and everyone pitched in, says Dr. Rychel. “We signed people up for ‘Bruno shifts’ and, as he began to become more mobile, he would rotate around to people’s homes, because after a couple days your back would be broken [from lifting him].”

It took three months before Bruno could stand on his own and between four and five months before he could walk. Bruno, being an often stubborn and lazy breed, sometimes required a little extra motivation to engage in his exercises. Food wasn’t the motivator, but staff realized Bruno had a sweet spot for children. Dr. Rychel would “borrow” kids from the neighborhood and when Bruno noticed them, “he would walk to see them when he wouldn’t walk for any other reason,” she recalls.

The plan for Bruno at the beginning of his rehabilitation at Fort Collins Veterinary was to rehabilitate him and adopt him out to a loving family. But it didn’t quite work out that way. As Bruno got better and was ready for a permanent home, Dr. Rychel ran into a speed bump. It turned out her husband had grown

attached to the big-hearted canine and they decided that Bruno would make his third and final home with them.

At 3-years-old, and a year since his surgery, Bruno is mobile. He can go on hikes with his new family and play with his fellow canine housemates. His first injury, the broken femur, still causes him pain and he tires easily, but Bruno is a happier and much healthier dog today.

In addition to physical therapy, Bruno was treated with acupuncture, laser therapy and walking in the underwater tank for balancing and strengthening. His transformation from quadriplegic to walking has been a true inspi-ration to the staff and clients at the hospital. But Dr. Rychel says that Bruno’s miracle actually illustrates the advances in veterinarian medicine and rehabilitation.

“Bruno, and many other dogs like him, are given a prognosis of zilch,” she says. “People just aren’t prepared for how important physical therapy is going to be. We can do almost any-thing with time, and 95 percent of the time we can return them to a good quality of life.” Dr. Rychel advocates for pet owners to explore the possibility of therapy for pets prior to expensive surgeries in some cases. With dedication, she says, “the sky’s the limit.”

Angeline Grenz is editor for Northern Colorado Medical & Wellness Magazine.

Pet TailsveterInAry

65


Gary Luckasen, M.D.PhySIcIAn SPotLIght

H I S H E A R T i s I N NORTHERN COLORADO

By maRTy meTzGeR

Gary Luckasen followed his heart into the study of medicine. As an undergraduate at Colorado State University, he studied mathematics, but cardiology

became his true calling, which brought the doctor back to Northern Colorado, where he has been serving heart patients for more than three decades.

A graduate of the University of Colorado School of Medicine in 1972, Dr. Luckasen left Colorado to complete his internship in internal medicine at the University of Michigan. Although he hoped to return to Colorado, Dr. Luckasen remembers how he was diverted into the study of cardiology by one of his Michigan professors who came to him and said, “You know we have one cardiology fellowship available. I really think you’ll do well in that; we’re going to select tomorrow.” The very next morning Dr. Luckasen decided to go

for it. “They gave me the fellowship; and that’s where I am now. I’m the happiest I could have ever been.”

When the opportunity arose to set up part of a family practice residency program in Fort Collins, another Michigan colleague recruited Dr. Luckasen, telling him, “This might be a good way for you to come home.” He hasn’t looked back since.

Over the course of the next 30 years, Dr. Luck-asen played an instrumental role in expanding the scope and quality of cardiac care across the entire region. From humble beginnings with one old treadmill and absolutely nothing else, Dr. Luckasen and his associates began adding resources and programs to their practice very quickly. Eventually, his physician group aligned with doctors at Poudre Valley Health System to establish a comprehensive heart health program known as Heart Center of the Rockies.

During the course of his practice, Dr. Luckasen

has seen a remarkable transformation in health-care. Thinking back to the outset of his career, Dr. Luckasen recalls, “We had very little we could do procedurally. … If you had a blocked artery you could have heart surgery, but that was it.”

Today, the future for heart patients is much brighter due to a number of techniques that have made cardiology much less invasive. “When I started, 50 percent of people with a diagnosis of heart failure were dead within five years. Now that has been extended by all the medicines, devices and new types of pacemakers that make your heart beat more efficiently.”

Many of these interventions are now common practice in Fort Collins, thanks to Dr. Luckasen and his associates. And their ongoing research continues to increase the number and efficiency of devices and procedural options available.

Dr. Luckasen describes one of the most exciting new advances. “This year we’ll roll out a new heart valve that you can put in without doing surgery, the Transcatheter Aortic-Valve Implantation. … It’s like a stint, but instead of being in the artery of the heart to open up a blocked artery or stop a heart attack, it opens up a heart valve.” After a slight pause, the doctor adds, “Way cool!”

Dr. Luckasen downplays his role in helping establish Poudre Valley Health System as one of the top 15 community hospitals in the country. He readily acknowledges the superior quality of physicians in this medical community in all disciplines. He cites their level of training, accom-plishments, skill sets and willingness to do new things. And he doesn’t stop there but goes on to credit the hospital administration’s consistent focus on quantifying quality of care and the exquisite nursing staff’s delivery of quality care.

When asked directly, Dr. Luckasen says without hesitation, “My greatest accomplishment? Being able to get married and have a family, my biggest accomplishment by far. I love to be with my kids and my wife.”

He still counts many of his heart patients among his closest friends, often participating in activities and events of the heart attack support group he helped to create called the Attack Pack.

Dr. Luckasen also expresses enthusiasm for the new relationships HCOR is forging with CSU and with local biotechnical companies along the Front Range. He reasons that not only will his efforts provide opportunity for himself and colleagues to play a larger role in what happens next in cardiology, but also because of the potential to improve the local economy and bring more jobs for people.

And be sure to keep an eye out for Dr. Luck-asen’s shock of bright silver hair in the bleachers at the CSU football games. In addition to golfing, skiing with the family and reading, he is a diehard Rams fan. “I love the Rams and I love CSU.”

He’s one of the lucky few that can say without hesitation, “I have had just about the best job in the whole world, I can’t imagine doing anything besides cardiology. And I count my blessings all the time.”

Fort Collins resident Marty Metzger has been a freelance writer since 1987.


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