augusta family magazine may/june 2015

Familym a g a z i n e

AUGUSTAMay/June 2015 amFamilyFamilym a g a z i n eFamilySUMMER FUN IN THE SUN

DADS ARE DOING MORE

ANNUAL SPIRIT OF NURSINGSPECIAL SECTION

Parent-Child Look Alike Contest Winners: Catherine and Cayla Johnson of Grovetown.

Look Alikes

www.augustafamily.com

03_05_MayJune_2015 TOC.indd 4 4/24/15 7:46:45 AM


ContentsPUBLISHERKate Cooper Metts

EDITORKarin Calloway

PRODUCTIONArt Director / Web ProducerMichael Rushbrook

Graphic ArtistChris Goodman

ADVERTISINGDirector of AdvertisingLisa Dorn

Advertising SalesDoressa HawesLisa Taylor Maidi McMurtrie ThompsonMary Porter Vann

Audience DevelopmentManagerJessica Seigler

PHOTOGRAPHYBarry Koenig and John Harpring

CONTRIBUTORSLucy AdamsKim Beavers, MS, RD, CDEJ. Ron Eaker, M.D.Cammie JonesMary Ashton MillsJennie Montgomery

Augusta Family Magazine is published 10 times per year and distributed throughout the Augusta and Aiken area. Send press releases, story ideas or comments to the editor at [email protected] or mail to 127A 7th Street, Augusta, GA 30901 or telephone (706) 828-3946. For advertising information, telephone (706) 823-3702. For circulation/distribution, call (706) 823-3722.


FamilyAUGUSTA

m a g a z i n e

7 editor’s page 9 mom2mom Ahhhh...Spring Break! -Jennie Montgomery

10 news&notes13 eating well with kim April Showers Bring May...Strawberries? -Kim Beavers, MS, RD, LD, CDE and Melanie Wells, Dietetic Intern

14 doctor/dad Fitness Monitors: Fantastic or Fraud? -J. Ron Eaker, M.D.

16 smart mom’s guide Suiting Up What You Need To Have on Hand for Summer Fun in the Sun! -Cammie Jones

32 inspiration station Strokes—Kids Have Them, Too -Mary Ashton Mills

34 calendar46 go girl!

Dr. Leila Jerome Clay -Karin Calloway

departments

May/June 2015

“Women possess the power to either reduce the role of dad to that of the guy who goes to the o�ce during the week and cuts the grass on the weekends or to elevate a father’s role to that of advi-sor, helper, caregiver, bedtime storyteller, carpool driver and safe harbor for a child in any storm.” Read Lucy Adams’ article about the important role of fathers on page 23.

quick pickMay/June

ON THE COVER:Catherine and Cayla, 4, Johnson, of Grovetown, are the winners of our �rst Parent-Child Look Alike Contest. Catherine’s husband and Cayla’s father is Tech. Sgt. James Johnson. Cayla has a brother, Jayden, who is 7. Photo by Barry Koenig of Carter Koenig Photography.

Dads MatterBy Lucy Adams

Look Alikes!Check out the winners and runners up in our Parent-Child Look Alike Contest 23

Annual Nursing Special Section: Ethical Practice/Quality Care

By Lucy AdamsPhotography by John Harpring18

27


Last month I announced that our publisher, Kate Metts, is moving on to a new opportunity and

this month I’d like to introduce you to our new publisher, Ashlee Griggs Duren. Ashlee, 38, lives in Aiken with her husband, Ron, a horse trainer, and her 3-year-old daughter Harper. �ey have a res-cue beagle-mix named Lulu. She loves to read, and enjoys spending her free time with her family.

Ashlee has been with Morris Communications (our parent com-pany) for 16 years, beginning in the newsroom and most recently work-ing in marketing, both at �e Au-gusta Chronicle. In her new position

Ashlee will serve as publisher to Augusta Family Magazine, Augusta Magazine, Aiken Homes and Livestyles and Skirt! Magazine.

Ashlee knew from an early age that she wanted to be a journalist and other than her current occupation, her dream job would be to be a member of the White House Press Corps.

Here are some fun facts about Ashlee:

Scandal.Frozen is the song that’s playing in her head. (She says it’s

all they seem to watch at her house besides Curious George.)

We are excited to welcome Ashlee to the helm of our team, and look forward to working with her!

Until July,

Introducing Ashlee

KARIN CALLOWAY is a wife and mother of two. She’s also a journalist and rec-ipe developer who writes the Wednesday cooking column for �e Augusta Chroni-cle. Watch Karin prepare her recipes on WJBF NewsChannel 6 on Tuesdays during Mid-Day and Wednesdays during Good Morning Augusta.

editor’sby Karin Calloway


JENNIE MONTGOMERY anchors the evening news at WJBF-TV. She and her husband, Scott, have three children.

I loved Spring Break trips when I was in college and have so many fun memories! �e much-

anticipated week always came at exactly the right time.

My own college kids seem to really enjoy the Spring Break memories they’re mak-ing, too.

I’ve noticed, though, with each passing year fewer pictures are posted on so-cial media. Hmmm…maybe

that’s a good thing! As long as they’re making decent choices, I �gure they’ve earned that week to kick back, forget about their classes and deadlines and just have fun.

�at Zack surely knows how to work it! Where do I start? In Zack’s World, Spring Break is something to be ob-

served whether or not you are actually a student. Yep, Zack still joins his friends on their annual Spring Break trip, even

though he is the one who opted out of college for the burning desire to follow his passion.

Did I mention that in Zack’s World compensation is not necessarily a part of that passion? The term “Starving Artist” comes to mind. Only he’s not starving because he has a room in my house. (And even though I’m the world’s worst about grocery shopping, there’s always something canned in the pantry AND there’s a sad little dented and ice-covered vegetarian entrée in the freezer…that no one has been starving quite enough to eat in the last two or three years!)

Zack gave me little notice that he was making a road trip with his (soon-to-graduate) friends. I asked him to help me put out the Masters �ag but he said, “Didn’t I tell you I’ve got Spring Break?” In Zack’s World, one can only complete a single task at a time: “Sorry! See you in 10 days, Mom.”

I guess hanging my �ag would have delayed his not-even-legit Spring Break by what, 5 minutes? Come on!

Well, the boy surprised me. Four nights later he and his buddies showed up at the house just to SURPRISE ME. He didn’t want money, didn’t need a place to crash—they were passing through and he wanted to hug my neck.

Zack’s World is anything but predictable! v

mom m mby Jennie Montgomery

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Ahhhh...Spring Break!

www.augustafamily.com10

augustafamily.comView Our On-Line Extras at www.AUGUSTAFAMILY.com

facebook.com/augustafamilymagazinetwitter.com/AUGFamilyMag

FOLLOW US ONLINE!

Register To Win!

Boat SafetyMORE THAN 70 MILLION AMERICANS enjoy recreational boating each year. Unfor-tunately, about 2,500 people were injured and nearly 600 died in boating accidents in 2013, according to the latest statistics from the U.S. Coast Guard. That’s why it’s so important to practice boat and water sports safety.

The biggest lifesaver is your life vest. Most boating-related drownings can be prevented by wearing personal fl otation devices. Recre-ational boats must carry one appropriately-sized life jacket approved by the Coast Guard for each person on board, and the jackets must be kept accessible and in good condition.

- Sam Keen

Safe Kids Greater Augusta, led by Children’s Hospital of Georgia, works to prevent accidental childhood injury, the leading killer of children ages 1 to 14. Safe Kids Greater Augusta is a member of the Safe Kids Worldwide & USA network. To fi nd out more about local Safe Kids programs, call 706-721-7606, or visit grhealth.org/safekids. Read more about boating safety at www.augustafamily.com.

Team Lean Winners

news notes

T� e Family YMCA’s Team Lean competition con-cluded on Saturday April 18 at the Downtown Au-gusta Family YMCA. Almost 1,400 participants competed in this year’s competition, including teams from local schools, churches and businesses. Winning the school category (pictured here) for the second year in a row is Cedar Ridge Elemen-tary School. Here’s a complete list of the winners:

� e Chubbs

to-back winners)

Credit Union (back-to-back winners)

FRESH FACES

IS YOUR CHILD READY FOR THEIR “close up?” If you think you’ve got a “cover kid,” submit their photo and information on our website and they may grace the cover of Augusta Family Magazine!

Familym a g a z i n e

AUGUSTAMay/June 2015 amFamilyFamily

m a g a z i n eFamilySUMMER FUN IN THE SUN

DADS ARE DOING MORE

ANNUAL SPIRIT OF NURSING

SPECIAL SECTION

Parent-Child Look Alike Contest Winners: Catherine and

Cayla Johnson of Grovetown.Look Alikes

KNOW A MOM who deserves a “Go Girl!” (see page 54) in an upcoming issue of Augusta Fam-ily Magazine? Submit her on the contest page of our website.

GirlGO


App-Tastic!

...Recipes... ...Grilling Pointers... ...Rubs & Sauces... ...Grill Timer...

Weber’s On the Grill

IF YOU LOVE TO GRILL OR BARBECUE, YOU ARE GOING TO LOVE THIS APP which features over

300 triple-tested classic Weber recipes that are sure to get you � red up to get out and grill. Tag your favor-

ites or create and share a master grilling list for your grilling recipes that you can take with you.

The app allows you to learn essential grilling techniques to take your skills to the next level. There’s

also a grill timer right in the app.

Available for $4.99 from itunes. Requires iOS 6.1 or later. Compatible with iPhone, iPad and

iPod touch and optimized for iPhone 5.


eating well with kimby Kim Beavers, MS, RD, LD, CDE and Melanie Wells, Dietetic Intern

April Showers Bring May...Strawberries?

Everyone has heard the saying, “April showers bring May �owers.” However, did you know that strawberries are one of those �owers? �at’s right! �e straw-

berry is actually part of the rose family because of the characterized �ower and �ve separate petals on the plant.

We are so fortunate here in the CSRA as we have local strawberries available to us each year!

�ere is a lot of energy around eating locally, reducing the food mile and helping out the envi-ronment so berry season is a perfect time of the year to get on that bandwagon.

�ere are two local strawberry farms that of-fer a U-Pick options Gurosik’s Berry Plantation (http://www.gurosiksberryplantation.com/) and Wagon Barn Market in Keysville, Ga., (check them out on Facebook).

Strawberries can be picked or purchased al-ready picked from April through July 4 depending on availability. Picking strawberries with the family is a great way to support the local farmers and have some fun with your kids.

To further peak your interest in buying straw-berries this spring and summer, you should know

that strawberries not only taste amazing, they are low in calories, high in �ber and are packed with antioxi-dants. One cup of strawberries contains 50 calories, 3 grams of �ber and provides 100 percent of the rec-ommended daily allowance (RDA) of vitamin C for adults. Strawberries also contain other important nu-trients like manganese, iodine, potassium and folate.

Strawberries are most commonly eaten out of hand a�er a good rinse. However, if you add a little melted dark chocolate over the top it turns a deli-cious strawberries into a decadent treat. Here are a couple more ideas to have you eating even more berries this year.

-made or low fat granola.

low-fat yogurt or low-fat milk and even some spinach. If you want to add some more protein to this drink, add 1 tablespoon of peanut but-ter and make it a PB&J smoothie.

-cakes, cereal or wa�es to get your day o� to a healthy start.

as in the recipe on the right.

KIM BEAVERS is a Registered Dietitian and Diabetes Educator for University Health Care System. She lives in North Augusta with her husband and two children and she is the co-host of the culinary nutrition segment Eating Well with Kim, which airs at noon Monday, Wednesday and Friday on WRDW. To join the recipe club or view recipes, visit www.universityhealth.org/ewwk. You can also watch the segments at www.wrdw.com/ewwk.

Strawberry Salad With Caramelized Almonds

This is a delightful mixture of flavors—sure to be a family favorite.

¼ cup slivered almonds2 tablespoons sugar10 ounces lettuce or mixed greens (1 bag or about 6 cups)1 cup chopped English cucumber (about ½)2 cups strawberries, hulled and quartered¼ cup red onion chopped4 tablespoons fat-free or light poppy seed dressing

To caramelize almonds: Add almonds and sugar to a non-stick skillet and cook over medium heat until golden brown. Stir the almonds and sugar and watch them closely to avoid burning. Cool on wax or parchment paper. Once cool, break into pieces and reserve until ready to serve.

Place the lettuce or greens in a large bowl and add dressing. Toss to combine. Add cucumber, straw-berries and onions and then toss again (tossing the salad with the dressing evenly disperses the dress-ing over all the leaves).

Serve on a large platter or on individual plates. Top with almonds just before serving and enjoy!

Yield: 6 servingsNutrient breakdown: Calories 83, Fat 2.5g (1.5g mono. fat, 0g sat. fat); Cholesterol 0mg, Sodium 27mg, Carbohydrate 14g, Fiber 2g, Protein 2g. Nu-trition Bonus: 60% DV Vitamin C, 10% Vitamin A. v

A close scrutiny of wrists today no longer reveals the ubiquitous “Live Strong” or “WWJD” bracelets but an array of bands collectively known as activity

trackers. Less a political statement or charity banner, these wearable technology frontrunners monitor everything from steps taken to sleep behavior. �e question that any cynical consumer and �tness fan should ask is, “Do the darn things really contribute to health?” In an attempt to separate the wheat from the circum-wristed cha�, I researched what real studies revealed, as opposed to anecdotal stories of massive weight loss and miraculous �tness fantasies.

�eir names are as fanciful as their lack of fashion sense: Fitbit Force, Nike Fuel, Jaw-bone Up24, Fitbug Orb and Mis�t Shine, just to name a few. �ey mea-sure steps, heart rate, skin temperature, perspiration, calories, distance, posture, weight, blood pressure, time asleep and even balance. I’m glad these were not available when I was going through puberty as every one of these things were o� the scale whenever Betty Sue Kapolski walked by me in grade school. Never-theless, the conglomeration of data stalked by these devices can be downloaded to your personal �le in the cyber-Cloud and you can pull up exactly how many steps you took on March 22, 2015, and whether or not you sweated like a Jamaican waterfall while doing it. While this information may be titillating and a ful�ll-ment of your greatest obsessive/compulsive tenden-cies, does it really make you healthier?

Define “Work”

For those with the attention span of a marmoset

and don’t want to read this whole article, spoiler alert: the answer is a resounding …maybe. Like President Clinton made so obvious, you have to de�ne what “is” is. In other words, what does “work” mean? If you mean everyone with a �tness band will gain in �tness, then the answer is no. If you mean �tness bands can increase awareness and motivation, then yes.

And it turns out that motivation is the key. We all know what to do to get �t or lose weight.

What we o�en lack is the motivation. Here is where most of the activity monitors shine. �ey are a pulsat-ing, bright reminder that we need to get o� “the couch of doom” and shake our booty…o�en.

It turns out that how accurate a device is, or even what it measures, is not as important as the fact that it is measuring something and giving you feedback. In fact, most studies illustrating this point come from the use of low-tech pedometers that have been around for years. �ese primitive step counters give you a single readout, steps taken, and are notoriously inaccurate, but researchers have determined that it doesn’t matter if your focus is on �tness. Having something that is measurable and serves to motivate you to plan, evalu-ate and execute is where the value lies.

Worth the Cost?

So why pay $100-150 for a glori�ed pedometer, which you can get for $10? Many experts ask the same question. Catrine Tudor-Locke, director of the Walk-ing Behavior Laboratory at Pennington Biomedical Research Center in Baton Rouge, La., has stated, “We �nd that a low-tech pedometer with a battery that lasts three years changes behavior just as much as any

of these fancy devices that you have to charge more o�en and connect to download.”

�e reason is pedometers are for nerds and �t-ness trackers are trendy—and celebrities wear them. Granted there is some really neat data that you can get from these devices, and I don’t mean to down-play their coolness, but as far as how they work—and they do—it is no di�erent than a cheap pedometer. It is all about the change in behavior, and that goes back to motivation.

David Pogue, writing in Scienti�c American puts it succinctly, “�ese devices are succeeding not be-cause of their scienti�c qualities but because of their motivational ones. We all know we should move more and sleep better—but with slow decline, most of us don’t bother. What the �tness bands do is to keep these issues front-of-mind. �ere it is, every time you turn on your phone: the latest stats on your progress. Most also show the results of friends who wear the same brand; it’s �tness through humiliation. In other words, the accuracy really makes little di�erence; the point is to keep us aware, to quantify our e�orts.”

Even the manufacturers acknowledge this. Fitbit spokeswoman Laura Emery says, “Ultimately the suc-cess of our products comes from empowering users to accurately see their overall health and �tness trends over time.”

So do these �tness bands work? Yes, they can motivate, educate and stimulate a person to be more active. But in the end, you still have to take responsi-bility and “Just Do It”. v

Dr. Eaker is an Augusta Ob/GYN and author. He and his wife, Susan, have two daughters in college.

doctor dadby J. Ron Eaker, M.D.

Fitness Monitors: Fantastic or Fraud?


?

Summer Camp



smartMom’sguideby Cammie Jones

It’s that time of the year again—the beach, the pool, the lake—they are all calling your name. As you get ready for the hot sunny days, you need to have some key items on hand to make the most of those your lazy summer. I found

some interesting “must haves” that I will help make this summer a fun, safe and organized one.

1. Beach Bag

I don’t know about you, but my beach bag is almost equiva-lent to my baby bag when my girls were young. IT MUST HAVE EVERYTHING I MAY POSSIBLY NEED IN IT! I prefer a vinyl bag with long shoulder straps for ease of carrying and cleaning. Here are some items in my personal beach tote:

bags in case of leaks

-ment

types

2. The Perfect Bathing Suit

so many types in the stores today. One pieces, two pieces, tan-

hour or two to shop just for suits. Drink a little ca�eine before

that perfect suit.

3. Comfy Flip Flops

I have a favorite pair of flops that travel with me every-where I go. They are well worn in, and I put them up there

that works for you and stick with them, season to season. Easy to throw in a bag, this versatile footwear is perfect for those hot days.

4. Sunscreen & More Sunscreen

protection. Sunscreen wears o�, so apply it again if you stay out in the sun for more than two hours and a�er you swim or do

temperatures. I usually pull out my coveted beach bag in the spring and toss all the old sunscreen to make room for new. Because it can get pricey, I try to start purchasing our favorite brands when I see them on sale so that it’s not such a big blow to the budget all at once.

Suiting Up! What You Need To Have on Hand for Summer Fun in the Sun!


5. Sunglasses

Sunglasses are a must-have and go along with sun protection—but for the eyes, according to mom.me on Zulily.com. Protective eyewear is essential if you want your peeps to look their best. Plus, today it is easier than ever to �nd stylish shades that don’t break the bank.

6. The Maxi Dress

�is may just be me, but I love a maxi dress. It’s easy to throw on, can be dressed down or up as needed and it travels easily without the need for an iron. One of my quotes is that it can be a “night to day, day to night” piece because it is both versatile and comfortable for day or evening events.

7. Sun Hat & Hair Protection

Again, protection from the sun is a must, especially for your face and even for your hair.

As much as we love the sun, it can do damage if you are out for extended periods of time. A large floppy hat can shield both your face and your hair from sun damage.

Also, make sure you use hair products with SPF such as shampoos, conditioners, hair gels, styling treatments, etc. “Use extra moisturizing products to keep your hair from drying out,” says Sandi Arens-man, editorial stylist and master hair colorist. Wear your hair in a long braid or casual “up do” to pro-tect it from the elements. Dampening your hair and wearing a masque on it can help keep it from drying out as well.

8. A Good Beach Read

Check out the latest best sellers or pick the brain of an avid reader to �nd a few books to read this summer. Don’t leave out the kids. Go online to �nd the top reads for kids depending on age—Scholastic puts a list on its website and I’ve even seen an Oprah list for children.

9. First Aid Kit

You can pack just a few essential items in a small bag that can go from car to beach bag to purse. Include bug spray, adhesive bandages and some type of �rst aid cream. Also, don’t forget the ibuprofen for both adults and children. Once you get set up at the beach or pool, you won’t have to pack it up in a hurry if the ailment’s �x is right there in your mini �rst aid kit.

10. A Laid Back Attitude

Let’s face it, that �rst week when the kids are home from school can be a little testy. �e routine of the past nine months is over and everyone is trying to �gure out how to be at home with each other. Chill out, and let the day unfold. Once you get into that laid back state of mind and have made sure you have the above essentials ready to go, you are destined to have a summer of fun! v

Cammie Jones is an Augusta freelance writer and mother of three.

smartMom’sguide

What You Need To Have on Hand for Summer Fun in the Sun!


We sought a way to highlight local families in hon-or of Mother’s and Father’s days and thought a contest was the perfect way do it. So, over the past few months we asked parents in the CSRA,

“Do you and your child look just alike?” And, the response to our � rst Parent-Child Look Alike Contest was overwhelming. More than 100 families entered the contest and now we’re unveiling the winners. � is was a tough decision, as you’ll see over the next few pages which feature our runners up. And the win-ners are...drumroll please...Catherine and Cayla Johnson of Grovetown.

Enjoy checking out our runners up and then check out all of the entries we received at www.augustafamily.com. (If you submitted a photo and it doesn’t appear on our website, please email the photo and your names, ages and city to [email protected] so we can include it with all of the entries.)


Look Alikes

First runners up were both father-daughter look alikes.

Pictured right are Anthony Holmes, Jr., and his daughter, 5-year-old Aaliyah.

Pictured above are Roland Moreno, 47, and his daughter Montana, 17.

Look Alikes


1. � omas Cox, Sr., of Martinez, and his son � omas, Jr., 11.2. Nancy Young, of Martinez, and her son Whit Morgan, 24.3. Michelle Tanksley, of Evans, and daughter Jordan, 11.4. Beth Blackwell, of Martinez, and her son William, 2.5. Heath Clark, of � omson, Ga., and his son Luke, 3.6. Tomeka Few, of Martinez, and her daughter Inkeria Harris, 18.7. Chandler Durrance, of Graniteville, S.C., and son Carter, 1.

1

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8. Jason Kiser, of North Augusta, and his son Nathaniel, 19, months.

9. Kelli Motes, of Grovetown, and her son Axton, 3.

10. Ronnie Prentice and her daughter Cheyenne, 12.

11. Mark Jackson, of Martinez, and his son Hunter, 5.

12. Jacob Lambert, of North Augusta, and his son Charlie, 8.

13. Tommy Meador, of North Augusta, and his son Luke, 8.

14. Roderick � omas, Sr., of Evans, and his son Roderick, Jr., 5.

15. Deidra Johnson and her son Evan, 15, and her daughter, Bailie, 12.15

Moms, Dads & Grads



Matter

ack when my family was young, my husband and I and our freshly hatched brood went on a vacation with another couple who had children that matched up age-wise with ours. � e other mom was one of those women who was on top of everything at all times. � e routine was rigid. � e rigor of her workload, especially for a vacation,

was grueling, to the point that I wondered what was wrong with me. Should I be killing myself like this, too?

Heck, I was happy to pass o� a poopy diaper change to my husband, regardless of whether he grumbled about it. I was happy to delay lunch if we were having fun and caught up in the moment together. I was happy to take turns tucking in the kids at night, even though their dad refused to read Goodnight Moon one more time.

� en one a� ernoon, that mother and I sat on the beach watching the little ones splash in the shallow breaking waves. No one could hear us talking over the din of the surf and wind, and she con� ded in me that she was exhausted. She complained that her husband never helped. When I queried whether she ever actually asked for help, she said that sometimes she did, but her husband would sigh and act irritated. u

MatterMatterBy Lucy Adams

When I suggested that she back o� and let him follow through with her request anyway, she complained that she wanted him to want to do it. Plus, the things he did do on occasion, such as bathe the children or put food on their plates, he did wrong. It was easier if she just did it herself.

“But you’re exhausted,” I reminded her, to point out that maybe it wasn’t easier. And I couldn’t imagine how it made her husband feel to experience day-in-and-day-out her lack of con� dence in his ability to care for his family, whether the task was one he wanted to do or not. I understood why he sighed. She expected him to engage, but, when he did, she undermined him. “Here’s a little secret about men: if they don’t feel a sense of con� dence about the work they do, they o� en feel ashamed,” says Dr. Will Courtenay, PhD, a psychotherapist and leading expert on masculinity (http://www.themensdoc.com). “And, if a man feels ashamed or embarrassed about how he’s performing at work, he’ll avoid it.”

Dad is more than just a contributor to conception. Mom wasn’t meant to do it all on her own, otherwise she would reproduce asexually, like a worm. � at’s not how the human family is designed, and fathers have an important role. “We live in a culture in which it takes two parents to manage a family and a home,” says Lacole Sneed, LCSW, of Family Counseling Center of the CSRA. “Some women don’t think a kid needs a dad.”

Why Dad Matters

A preponderance of evidence refutes that misconception. Dr. Courtenay says, “Research shows all kinds of bene� ts for children when fathers are involved in their lives. � ese kids do better socially, behaviorally, psychologically mazing. It shows them love.”

The Changing Role of Dad

Over the last several decades, fathers have transitioned from sole breadwinner to sharing with their wives the load of generat-ing income for the family. While Dr. Courtenay notes that for many men the notion of being the primary economic provider is entrenched in their identity, Sneed says she has seen an increase in stay-at-home dads as more women develop careers. � ough both observations are accurate, two incomes sustain the over-whelming majority of families.

HUSBAND BashingWhat It Is, Why It’s Harmful and How To Stop

Toni Coleman, LCSW, CMC, a McClean, Va., psychotherapist and re-lationship coach (http://www.consum-mate.com), has this to say:

What is husband bashing?

Husband bashing is criticizing one’s spouse to friends, family, neighbors, co-workers and even children.

Why do women do it?

It is o� en the result of pent-up frustration and anger on the part of the wife, who feels as though her spouse does not support her, listen to her, perhaps neglects her needs and wants or perhaps she is just disappointed with her life in general and he is a good target.

It is a bad habit of speaking negatively when unhappy or frustrated. Women may be looking for allies or for atten-tion or just an outlet for their unhappiness.

So if Dad isn’t the primary provider for his family anymore, what is his purpose? Dr. Courtenay cites survey data indicat-ing that for 99 percent of dads, fatherhood is an important part of their identity. As mothers have moved into the workforce, dads have taken on more housekeeping and child-rearing tasks. Dr. Courtenay says, “Since 1965, fathers have nearly tripled the amount of time they spend with their kids. But nearly half (46 percent) still feel like they’re not spending enough time with their children.” � is is a far cry from the traditional father who came home from work, ate dinner and read the paper.

In Support of Fatherhood

“Mothers have a huge in� uence over how involved fathers are with their kids. � eir attitudes are a signi� cant predictor of fathers’ involvement,” says Dr. Courtenay. Dads view their role through the eyes of their partner. If the partner diminishes his status, he will acquiesce. If the mother of his children empha-sizes his position, he will be an active father. “Fathers play such an important role in the lives of their children,” says Sneed.


“� ey’re as equally important as the mother. We need to place value on both.” But a dad has to believe he is a competent father; otherwise, he’s less likely to be involved with his children.

Dr. Courtenay reminds women, “If a mom tends to think that her home is her hive, and she’s the queen bee, then she’s got to realize that—whether she likes it or not— she’ll be pushing the worker drone back to the o� ce. And, if she does that, we know that that father will de� nitely become less involved with the kids over time.” To increase or encourage a dad’s connection with his children, Mom needs to desire that involvement, express con� dence in the father’s abilities and demonstrate that desire and con� dence by relinquishing some responsibilities to Dad.

Shifting Mom’s Mindset

Women possess the power to either reduce the role of dad to that of the guy who goes to the o� ce during the week and cuts the grass on the weekends or to elevate a father’s role to that of advisor, helper, caregiver, bedtime storyteller, carpool driver and safe harbor for a child in any storm. A few tips o� ered by Dr. Courtenay give Moms tools for encouraging Dads:

Evolve your attitudes. Women with traditional ideas about parenting have husbands and partners who are less involved with their children. With the exception of giving birth and breast feeding, fathers are capable of doing everything moth-ers can.

Invite Dad to engage. An invitation is di� erent from a demand. An invitation evokes warmth and welcome. He may see the home as your domain, and you may be doing or saying things to reinforce that perspective. Most men will hesitate to

insert themselves, so, if you want him to get involved, invite him. Quit the criticism, especially in front of his o� spring. Dad

won’t do it your way. He’s a separate individual with his own ideas and insights. Give him room to develop his unique relationship with his children. Children don’t mind the di� erences in their parents’ approaches to demonstrating love.

Communicate without nagging. Nagging creates tension in a home. It doesn’t get a guy moving as much as it gets him disengaged.

Apply positive feedback, especially in front of his o� spring. Men take pride in their work, including the work of caring for children. Recognition of a job well done feels so satisfying. Focus less on shortcomings and more on successes.

Believe in him. Grown men don’t need to be mothered and micromanaged. Fatherhood is his job to do. Demonstrate con� -dence in him by backing o� and allowing him to get the job done in the way that he sees is best. v

Why is it harmful?

What men need most from women is respect and apprecia-tion. When they are bashed, they get neither. Without that val-idation and caring from their wives they o� en tune out more, withdraw, seek out women who � atter them and show appre-ciation, in general are at greater risk for a� airs.

It is also bad for the woman. She can’t feel very good about her-self when she has nothing good to say about her spouse. Others will lose respect for her as well and take the side of her spouse.

It is very bad for children who may join in, turn o� to both par-ents, form very negative attitudes about marriage and/or feel very badly for their Dad and resentful towards their Mom.

How can women break the habit?

I encourage women to practice gratitude. Every morning they sit down and come up with one or two things that are good and positive in their life, re� ect on them for a few minutes and again several more times throughout the day.

I also ask them to say something positive to their spouse upon awakening and several more times throughout the day. Finding small things to say thank you for, acknowl-edging something he has contributed to making her life or the day a little better, even something small, will go a long way towards helping them make a turn in a more positive direction.

Every time she opens her mouth to say something nega-tive, she should quickly stop herself and then either not say anything or � nd something positive to say instead.

Lucy Adams is a freelance writer and the author of Tuck Your Skirt in Your Panties and Run. She lives in Thomson, Ga., with her husband and their four children. Contact Lucy at [email protected].



Ethical Practice, Quality Care

Articles by Lucy Adams

Article Photography by John Harpring

N U R S E S


�ose who know her, however, �nd the recognition no astonishment. McKeen has

spent her 21-year nursing career at Georgia Regents University, committing the last 11

years to pediatric pulmonology. While serving as case manager for over 100 patients, Mc-

Keen also initiates and coordinates education programs through the CF Center. She says,

“I really enjoy the teaching aspect of working at an academic institution.” By coordinat-

ing the annual CF information day, distributing a quarterly newsletter, helping establish

a support group for parents of infants with CF and putting together resource notebooks

for parents, she increases the knowledge and understanding of Cystic Fibrosis for her

patients’ families. Furthermore, her participation in research activities focused on Cystic

Fibrosis expands the knowledge base of the medical community.

“�ere has never been any doubt that pediatrics was where I needed to work,” Mc-

Keen says. But she almost missed her calling to nursing when she enrolled at �e Uni-

versity of Georgia as a pre-med student with her heart set on becoming a pediatric psy-

chiatrist. When her mother fell ill with a long recovery ahead, McKeen withdrew from

UGA and returned to Augusta. Interacting with the nurses who cared for her mother

revealed the direction she needed to take. “�e nurses who took care of my mom were

s a nurse clinician in pediatric pulmonology and the co-

ordinator of the pediatric Cystic Fibrosis (CF) Center at

Children’s Hospital of Georgia, Amy McKeen, RN, puts

her all into caring for her young patients and support-

ing their families. Still, she was surprised to hear her

name announced as the 2014 Nurse of the Year

for the CSRA Chapter of the Georgia Nurses

Association. “I was completely shocked,” she

says. “It truly was unexpected. I remember

saying, ‘If I thought I was going to win I

would have dressed up.’” In fact, she

thought her chances so slim that she

attended the Spirit of Nursing award

ceremony without her husband

and three children.

Humbled by the Call to Nursing

A

2014 NURSE OF THE YEAR


invested in her recovery. �ey took care of not just my mom’s medical needs but all of her

needs. �ey helped to keep us motived and celebrate small successes. I knew that nursing

was where God was calling me to use my talents,” McKeen remembers.

Some days, however, she must set aside her drive to heal the physical person in order

to address the topic of death with her patients and their families. A tremendous treatment

burden accompanies a chronic illness like Cystic Fibrosis and not every patient wishes

to sustain it. Several years ago, when one of her adolescent patients refused a lung trans-

plant evaluation, it was a pivotal point in her career. She transitioned from avoiding grief

to embracing and celebrating life, no matter how short. She says, “�ere is something

powerful about a parent being a champion for his child’s last wishes, even if it goes against

what the medical community and social groups feel to be appropriate.” Since that experi-

ence, McKeen says she has learned to talk less and listen more. She creates a comfortable

environment in which patients and their families can speak openly about di�cult issues.

With humility, she says, “Winning the award was certainly an honor, but I cannot

take all of the credit. I work with a great multidisciplinary team that helps make me

look good.” Yet, she’s pleased with the heightened public awareness of Cystic Fibrosis that

came with winning Nurse of the Year. It has invigorated interest and discussion in the

community. “People need to know that CF has changed. Patients are living longer and

more productive lives. We expect that there will be more adult patients than pediatric

patients in the near future. �at is amazing news,” says McKeen, who plans to continue

advocating for this population for years to come. u

2014 Nurse of the Year Amy McKeen, RN, is pictured at left with patient Kayla George. McKeen works as a nurse clinician in pediatric pulmonology and is the coordinator for the pediatric Cystic Fibrosis Center at Children’s Hospital of Georgia.

for Nurse of the Year2015 Nominees

STAFF NURSEElizabeth Bookard University Hospital

Lashonda Callahan Eisenhower Army Medical Center

Gaye Clark University Hospital

Cara Collins Georgia Regents Medical Center

Inmaculada Davis Eisenhower Army Medical Center

Nancy Green Georgia Regents Medical Center

Angie Hickey Eisenhower Army Medical Center

Nicole Williams VA Medical Center

NURSE ADMINISTRATORDr. �ayer McGahee USCA School of Nursing

NURSE MANAGERTishon Adams VA Medical Center

Laura Lee Cooper Christ Community Health Services

Dorothy Ann Evans Eisenhower Army Medical Center

Barbara Molini (x2) University Hospital

Bonnie Weeks University Hospital

ADVANCED PRACTICE NURSEMajor James Ryals Eisenhower Army Medical Center

Erin Wilder VA Medical Center

NURSE EDUCATOR/RESEARCHER/CLINICAL NURSE LEADERCrystal Glover VA Medical Center

Kevin Lulham University Hospital

Dr. Amber McCall Georgia Regents University

Dr. Joyce Pompey USCA School of Nursing

Maria Rivera Eisenhower Army

Susan Tuten University Hospital

COMMUNITY HEALTH NURSENancy Wates VA Medical Center

30

ince nurses were �rst added in 1999 to the Gallup Poll of most

trusted professions, they have ranked at the top of the list every

year except 2001, when �re�ghters’ 9/11 heroism vaulted them to the

number one spot. In the 2014 poll, 80 percent of respondents ranked

nurses as “very high” or “high” in honesty and ethics.

�e source of this overwhelming con�dence in nurses is a com-

plex convergence of many things, including the sense of a nurse’s

enthusiasm for her position. “It’s so important that people enter

the medical �eld with a passion for it. �e care and the love you

Nurses are on the front lines of educating patients and families, explaining proce-dures, answering questions,

providing comfort and giving direct assistance in

many forms.

--

-.

SEthical Practice, Quality Care


have for the profession is really seen,” says Jackie Williamson, the charge nurse on the 25-

bed skilled care unit for veterans in long-term and hospice care at the uptown division of

the Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center on Wrightsboro Road. In addition to the outward

expression of enthusiasm for the profession, a multiplicity of factors fuels persistent trust

in nurses.

Illness in and of itself, for one thing, increases a person’s perceived and real vulnerability.

Pain or discomfort, physiological changes, diminished control over one’s physical func-

tions, uncertainty about outcomes and insecurity about what will happen next put a person

at the mercy of the hands that help. A nurse walks the �ne line of treating the body, while

at the same time respecting the person in it as an autonomous individual with the right to

make decisions about his or her care, including the right to refuse it.

In addition, nurses spend a greater amount of time with patients and their families than

do other caregivers. “In acute care, nurses are the constant that a patient sees. In such a

vulnerable situation, patients will open up to nurses,” says Lisa Simmons, MSN, RN, senior

instructor in the University of South Carolina Aiken School of Nursing.

Nurses are on the front lines of educating patients and families, explaining procedures,

answering questions, providing comfort and giving direct assistance in many forms. As a

relationship develops, patients and families con�de in the nurse who becomes a liaison

between the patient and the doctor and an advocate for the patient’s interests. �e nurse

is usually the �rst caregiver to notice a change in the patient’s condition or to learn of the

family’s concerns about treatment and prognosis. �e nurse’s scope of contact and in�u-

ence touches many more people than just the ones in her care—and for each nurse there are

many at any given time.

Combine the documented hours of direct patient care, the indirect e�ects of conscien-

tiousness to that care, the specialized knowledge required to impart it and the ability to

bridge the distance between doctor and patient, and these ingredients result in creating the

image of nurse as exceptionally honest and ethical. To that end, the American Nurses Asso-

ciation (ANA) has declared 2015 “�e Year of Ethics.” �is declaration coincides with the

Gallup Poll results from December 2014 and the January 1 release of the new ANA Code

of Ethics for Nurses with Interpretive Statements.

ETHICS IN THE NURSING CLASSROOM

�e Gallup Poll results are a �attering accolade. Yet, at the same time, America’s faith

and trust in nurses imposes a weighty responsibility. A code of ethics that forms a social

Combine the documented hours of direct pa-tient care, the indirect effects of conscientious-ness to that care, the specialized knowledge required to impart it and the ability to bridge

the distance between doctor and patient, and these ingredients result in creating the image of

nurse as exceptionally honest and ethical.

�e following registered nurses have been selected by

their workplace peers as the 2015 Spirit of Nursing Award

recipients. �ese professionals have demonstrated e�ec-

tive quality nursing practice in a positive manner within

the healthcare system to impact healthcare outcomes.

�e award criteria states that these individuals:

Spirit Award Winners of Nursing Reflection

PENNY DYALSAmedisys Home Health

KIM STUDDARDAmedisys Home Health


NICOLE WILLIAMSCharlie Norwood Veterans Hospital

Reflection of Nursing Spirit Award Winners

CYNTHIA WILLIAMS Charlie Norwood Veterans Hospital

SANDRA BAILEYChi Eta Phi Sorority, Inc.

STEPHANIE FIELDSChi Eta Phi Sorority, Inc.

ELLEN PROVEAUXAmerican Holistic

Nurses Association

DANNA LEEChrist Community Health Services


contract between a profession and society and serves as a basis for

sound judgments makes the weight not only bearable, but enjoyable.

It enables nurses, their co-workers, their patients and the public to

bene�t to the highest degree possible. In an industry like healthcare

in which technology and research rapidly lead to new frontiers in

patient care, ethical dilemmas and debates will always present them-

selves. An agreed upon code of ethics supplies strategies and frame-

works for problem-solving in the grey areas so that nurses can focus

on quality care.

Although the inclusion of ethics modules in nursing education

curriculums almost vanished in the mid twentieth century, the topic

has gained a place again in the classroom. Students are exposed to

the types of ethical predicaments they may face in the workplace,

dilemmas that have no single correct answer. Simmons, who teaches

nursing ethics and law at USC Aiken, says, “Nursing is so much more

than just tasks. We constantly use critical thinking skills.” Common

ethical dilemmas encountered by nurses include weighing the merits

of a medical procedure against its inherent risks, considering wheth-

er a patient should or should not have the freedom to make choices

that may harm his health or hurt his recovery, discerning how much

truth a patient can handle or whether deception, even if the inten-

tion is good, violates a patient’s right to be fully informed, and man-

aging emotions in a situation that requires the nurse to respond in a

manner contrary to personal religious or moral beliefs. “Part of this

is teaching students to not be judgmental. �ey still have to provide

excellent nursing care,” says Simmons.

Using case studies and other teaching strategies, Simmons in-

troduces her students to actual situations nurses deal with daily.

She also schools them directly on the ANA Code of Ethics, as it

is the standard of practice for nurses licensed in South Carolina.

1ST LT. ELISE HARKEYDwight D. Eisenhower Army

Medical Center

MARIA RIVERADwight D. Eisenhower Army

Medical Center

GLORIA MOXLEY GAPAN


TAMMY HARRISGeorgia Regents University

Medical Center


DAVID HIGHSMITH Georgia Regents University

Medical Center

ANN GADIAGeorgia Regents University

Medical Center

DR. AMBER MCCALLGeorgia Regents University

College of Nursing

RENEE FLIPPOGeorgia Regents University

College of Nursing

GAIL CANTRELLGeorgia Regents University

Medical Center


She says, “Nursing students need to understand that the Code of Ethics provides a succinct

statement of the ethical values, obligations and duties of every person who enters the nursing

profession.” It’s non-negotiable. Though the majority of laypeople are unaware of its existence

or its provisions, Gallup Poll results demonstrate that they are aware that nurses practice by

high standards as a whole.

Simmons educates students in the elements of ethical practice: honoring patient autonomy,

beneficence (doing good), justice, voracity (truthfulness), confidentiality, non-maleficence

(doing no harm) and integrity. “This isn’t all just common sense,” Simmons says, which is

why she also instructs her nursing students in the process of using ethical standards to solve

real life problems.

ETHICS IN PRACTICE

A nurse never attends to a patient in vacuum. In addition to caring for several patients, he or

she also supports the each patient’s family and other medical sta�. �e nurse has to disentangle

personal preferences and beliefs from those of the patient or the patient’s guardian. He or she

must also make a stand for the patient’s desires when appropriate. For new nurses, this can be

di�cult. “�ey graduate from nursing school ready to change the world,” Simmons says. “Some-

times the people they care for don’t want to be changed.”

To render services in a nonjudgmental way that creates an environment of acceptance is

the nurse’s duty. VA nurse Jackie Williamson agrees. Openly addressing the tough questions

surrounding death and dying and how the answers a�ect patients, care providers and families

keeps Williamson and her coworkers mindful their charge to do good and to do no harm. She

acknowledges, “�e ethical dilemmas will be debated until the end of time,” which is why she

frequently discusses ethical issues important to her patient population with an inter-disciplin-

ary group.

“I try to keep my team positive and open to communication,” she says. “�ere are times when

we have to advocate for (patients’) rights as veterans and for their care.” Nurses on this unit

support patients and families coping with emotional end of life choices. For veterans and their

TRACI TALMANGeorgia Regents University

Medical Center

KASEY MCGILLGeorgia Regents University

Medical Center

YAKITA ROUSEGeorgia Regents University

Medical Center

DONNA KOLB Georgia Regents University

Medical Center



GAYE CLARKUniversity Hospital

MCKENZIE VICKGeorgia Regents University

Medical Center

DEANNA WILLIAMSGeorgia Regents University

Medical Center

DR. AMBER MCCALLSigma Theta Tau

DR. STEPHANIE WRIGHT Sigma Theta Tau

DANIEL CICCIOUniversity Hospital


families, Williamson and her team extend emotional support and educa-

tion about what to expect, what can be done for patient comfort and the

wishes the patient has expressed in formal documentation. �ey explain

the pros and cons, costs and bene�ts, of each particular decision a patient

or the patient’s assigned representative makes. Equally important is �ex-

ibility. “Every person has the right to change his or

her mind,” says Williamson. Each veteran’s dignity

is respectfully regarded from the moment of arriv-

al until his or her service to country is celebrated

in a �nal post-death �ag ceremony on the unit.

She also acknowledges that family dynam-

ics can put nurses in awkward circumstances.

Knowing the ANA Code of Ethics becomes a

practical tool in serving the patient’s needs and

communicating in an empathic, honest way with

the family.

Williamson recalls the Florence Nightingale

Pledge, a modified Hippocratic Oath, that she and her fellow nursing

school graduates took at their commencement: I solemnly pledge my-

self before God and in the presence of this assembly, to pass my life in

purity and to practice my profession faithfully. I will abstain from what-

ever is deleterious and mischievous, and will not take or knowingly ad-

minister any harmful drug. I will do all in my power to maintain and

elevate the standard of my profession, and will hold in confidence all

personal matters committed to my keeping and all family affairs com-

ing to my knowledge in the practice of my call-

ing. With loyalty will I endeavor to aid the physi-

cian in his work, and devote myself to the welfare

of those committed to my care. To Williamson,

this pledge embodies the commitment to ethical

practice and quality care.

FROM THE PATIENT PERSPECTIVE

To be on the receiving side of nursing care,

whether as a patient or as someone who loves

that patient, can be a powerful experience. When

Rhett Ransom arrived at �e Good Samaritan House Dearing Health

Clinic with symptoms that indicated to family nurse practitioner Sandy

Turner, EdD, FNP, that he may have a more serious problem than a little

Patients don’t nec-essarily interpret the

behaviors or words of nurses in terms of eth-ics, but a nurse’s ad-

herence to an ethical code affects the pa-

tient experience, mak-ing difficult diagnoses

easier to bear.

cough, Turner sprang into action. “Being self-employed,”

explains Ransom, “I have no health insurance or regular

doctor.” Turner, determined to not let that be a barrier to

diagnosis and treatment, made the phone calls that initi-

ated the process of preliminary tests that ultimately indi-

cated inoperable stage 4 lung cancer.

Yet, because Turner acted so quickly and resolutely,

calling upon her connections in the medical community,

Ransom received care from an optimistic oncologist who

designed a successful treatment protocol that ended with

surgical removal of one lung following several weeks of

radiation and chemo therapy to shrink the tumors. “San-

dy was a mentor to me throughout the process,” Ransom

recounts. “Every stop and every nurse along the way has

been nothing short of phenomenal. �ey’ve been con�-

dential. �ey’ve been e�cient. Every nurse was extremely

thorough. �ey were always checking to con�rm I was the

right patient receiving the right medicine.”

Patients don’t necessarily interpret the behaviors or

words of nurses in terms of ethics, but a nurse’s adherence

to an ethical code a�ects the patient experience, making

di�cult diagnoses easier to bear. Ransom says, “I’ve got

the most profound respect for what they do, how much

they do, how well they do it.”

Lauren Redlund, whose son Marshall was born at 28

weeks gestation this past December and spent two months

in the University Hospital NICU, concurs. “�e hardest

thing I had to do was leave the hospital and not take him

home,” she says. “It was a roller coaster of emotions the

�rst two to three weeks.”

For the �rst week, treatment protocol did not permit

her to hold her baby. A�er that critical period passed, she

and her husband were allowed to hold him once a day for

20 minutes. It wasn’t until he was a month old that they

could hold Marshall as much as they wanted. Even though

Redlund is herself an RN on the University Hospital car-

diac unit, she was not prepared for being on the opposite

side of the patient bed. “Being on the other side of things

really put in perspective how stressed you feel when your

family member is in the hospital,” she says. She says of the

nurses who attended to Marshall, “�ey always talked to

me. �ey always asked how I was doing. �ey respected

the fact that I had the right to have these emotions.”


COURTNEY ALLENUSC Aiken Student Nurses Association

BETTY ABRAHAM SETTLES USC Aiken School

of Nursing

ROBYN SPULOCKUniversity Hospital

BONNIE WEEKSUniversity Hospital

REBECCA LOUISE FRAZIERUniversity Hospital

KAREN RYANSUniversity Hospital


TERRI CLIATTUniversity Hospital

KIM HADDENUniversity Hospital

SYBIL MINTERUniversity Hospital

KEVIN LULHAM University Hospital

DOUG PUGHUniversity Hospital

CAITLIN DELOACHUniversity Hospital–Thompson


Empathizing with Redlund’s anxiety and frustration, a particular

nurse took time from her busy schedule one afternoon to talk with Red-

lund one on one. She counseled Redlund that those feelings are common

for parents like her and advised that it was okay to grieve the normal

pregnancy and birth she’d expected. This nurse’s compassionate interac-

tion enabled Redlund to get through this challenging time. The constant

education doled out prepared Redlund and her husband for the day they

would finally take Marshall home. “The nurses felt like family in the

end,” says Redlund.

Of note, the nurses refrained from imposing their will on the parents

of their patients. �ey respected parents’ rights to choose what they felt

was best for their baby and their family. Mothers who chose to bottle feed

weren’t opposed by the nursing sta�, nor were those who chose not to vac-

cinate their child. Procedures requiring parent approval were explained

and parental decisions were accepted without rebuttal. At the same time,

a high standard of care and professionalism pervaded every interaction.

Babies were referred to by their names. Parents were provided with prog-

ress updates when they arrived for visits. Redlund says of the nurses, “You

can tell they love what they do.”

Ardent commitment to the role of nurse is the most visible aspect of

the profession. Williamson encourages her peers in the field, “Always

remember why you became a nurse. Be objective, and be open to others’

opinions. Always keep the patient first. You can make the quality of life

of your patient better with your knowledge and passion.” Patients and

families in their most vulnerable moments open up to nurses and re-

ceive abundant understanding and compassion. Simmons believes that

level of quality care results from ethical practice. The first does not exist

without the second. v

A nurse never attends to a patient in vacuum. In addition to caring for several patients, he or she also supports the each patient’s family and other medical

staff. The nurse has to disentangle personal preferences and beliefs from those of the patient or the patient’s guardian.

Summer Fun!



StrokesConcerns over having a healthy baby and child are on

the forefront of many parent’s minds today. With so many milestones and checklists, it’s normal to worry that our children will be healthy enough to achieve

each goal. We hear about pediatric cancer, chromosomal ab-normalities, SIDS and many more health-related disorders and events, but stroke doesn’t regularly cross our minds when think-ing about our children.

Yes, pediatric stroke occurs in 11 out of every 100,000 chil-dren per year, according to the National Stroke Association. When someone has a stroke either the blood supply to the brain is inter-rupted or a blood vessel in the brain bursts causing blood to spill into the spaces around the brain cells. This short event can cause serious repercussions affecting development for years to come.

Stroke can happen to unborn babies, newborns, children and teenagers in addition to adults and the elderly. While we would much rather be focused on our children’s happy times, enjoying each life achievement, it is important to recognize the stroke risk factors and warning signs and hope that having the knowledge

and not needing it will apply to our own family.

An Unseen Stroke

For Martinez resident Ashlyn Fox, mother of 8-year-old Ha-gen Fox, the warning signs were not early enough. Fox, a neonatal intensive care unit nurse for over 10 years, has seen her share of sick babies. When she gave birth to her son Hagen, it was appar-ent that something was wrong and she later learned he suffered a stroke in-utero. “When he was approximately seven hours old, he turned dusky in the nursery and was rushed to the NICU where he was placed on the ventilator. The following day he began hav-ing visible seizures, which led to a CT scan and MRI being done and it was determined that he’d had a stroke,” says Fox.

After doctors at the University hospital NICU were able to di-agnose the stroke, they treated him with medication. Early on, he was weaned from all medication and he has never missed a devel-opmental milestone. He walked on his 1st birthday and has always been treated normally—just like his older sister. Hagen still at-

inspirationstationby Mary Ashton Mills

Kids Have �em, Too!


{ inspirationstation

tends occupational therapy to help him overcome a slight right-side weakness, but other than that there are no apparent signs that something hap-pened before he took his first breath, while in the comfort and safety of his mother’s womb.

Fox would like for others to know not to give up if their child receives a diagnosis similar to the one she and her son received eight years ago. “We were told he may never walk or talk or do any-thing on his own,” says Fox as she proudly reports of Hagen’s many sports accomplishments. “He plays basketball through UPWARD, soccer and football. He is our miracle!”

Risk Factors and Symptoms

Since strokes not only occur in the elderly, it is crucial to know the warning signs and risk factors. Males, children under 2 years old and African-Americans are at a greater risk for stroke. Some causes of stroke in children are different than the standard adult risk factors like high blood pres-sure and hardening of the arteries. Risk factors include:

unborn baby

pregnancy

mother Knowing stroke symptoms can help you to

identify a stroke in children.

sleepiness and using one side of the body more than the other can be warning signs.

headaches, vomiting, numbness, sleepiness,

are symptoms.

headaches and vomiting at some point in their

lives, therefore we should exercise caution before running to the doctor if we notice one of these symptoms.

Treatment for Stroke Patients

Lisa Rhodes, senior occupational therapist -

pital of Georgia says that treating all three disci-plines—speech, occupational and physical thera-py—provides patients with a more holistic healing method. First, she recommends treating the pa-tient immediately following their discharge from

but the sooner they can begin, the better the re-sults they will see. “We like to strike while the iron is hot,” says Rhodes. They work with all levels of stroke victims at Pediatric Rehabilitation.

“Physical therapy helps with mobility con-cerns, occupational therapy addresses functional independence on daily activities and speech ther-apy treats the ability to verbally express and pro-cess language,” says Rhodes. Each patient’s level of deficit will be addressed and goals will be set. They will be evaluated at the six-month mark and they will see what goals were met, how the child compensates for their disability and they will con-tinue to develop strategies for the child. Some-times walking, talking and speaking are mastered, but simple skills like using a computer, operating a vending machine or activities that require other fine motor skills need to be taught.

On a positive note, children who are victims of stroke are more likely to recover than adults be-cause their brains are still developing and have the ability to recover better after injury.

�ough currently there is no stroke support group in Augusta, May is National Pediatric Stroke

a local support group, please contact Ashlyn Fox at [email protected]. Sometimes placing people together who have similar life experiences can be the

information on pediatric stroke, visit Stroke.org. v

Kids Have �em, Too!

Mary Ashton Mills lives in Augusta with her husband and two children. Her work has appeared in Magazine, and Augusta Family Magazine.


calendar May/June 2015

Sesame Street Live—Make a New FriendElmo, Grover, Abby Cadabby and their Sesame Street friends welcome Chamki, Grover’s friend from India, to Sesame Street.

June 10 at 10:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. Bell Auditorium.

www.augustaentertainmentcomplex.com.


calendar

SPECIAL EVENTS

Ongoing. Summer Horse Camp: Tranquility Stables of Appling. Ages 6 and up. Weekly sessions, Mon-day–Friday 8a.m.–3 p.m. Each day builds on the skills learned the day before so by the end of the week have a camp full of con�dent riders ready to show off what they have learned at the awards show. Camp-ers are to bring their own lunch each day along with a change of clothes and a bathing suit-just in case get a little wet or dirty! There are several rides per day which includes formal instruction, bareback bal-ancing, and games on horseback. There are arts and crafts activities offered daily as well a horse shoeing clinic, A visit from a local vet, instruction on mucking stalls and much more. 5232 White Oak Rd. 813-714-2456, [email protected].

May 1. James Brown Block Party. In honor of James Brown’s birthday, a concert will be held on the grounds of the Augusta Museum of History. Featuring JAMP (James Brown Academy of Musik Pupils) and other special guests. 5-8 p.m. 706-722-8454.

May 1-2. Historic Augusta Downtown Loft Tour. Celebrate National Historic Preservation Month by taking an intimate look inside the historic buildings of downtown Augusta. All proceeds bene�t the proj-ects and programs of Historic Augusta. May 1, 6-9 p.m. May 2, noon-5 p.m. For tickets and more infor-mation, call 706-724-0436 or visit www.historicau-gusta.org.

May 1-2. The Little Roy and Lizzie Music Festi-val. Featuring some of the country’s best bluegrass performers. Bring your lawn chairs. Food and craft vendors. Noon-10 p.m. Elijah Clark State Park. Lin-colnton, Ga. For a full schedule call 706-864-7203 or visit www.adamsbluegrass.com.

May 2. Derby Day. The Augusta Training Shop’s an-nual fundraiser and spring social event. Attendees will enjoy watching the Kentucky Derby live while sipping homemade mint juleps paired with South-ern cuisine. Live entertainment, raf�es, silent auction and hat contest. For tickets, call 706-738-1358.

May 7, 14, 21 & 28, June 4, 11, 18 & 25. Evans Towne Farmers Market. Local farmers and gardeners com-mitted to organic, sustainable practices sell fresh vegetables, fruits, eggs, meat, dairy products, honey, breads and more. Also features artisans, musicians, children’s activities and chefs selling freshly prepared take-home foods. 4:30-7 p.m. On the grounds of the Columbia County Library. Visit www.evanstowne-farmersmarket.com for more information.

May 7. National Day of Prayer Service. A non-de-nominational worship and prayer service for our na-tion in honor of the annual National Day of Prayer.

Free and open to the public. 7 p.m. Sacred Heart Cultural Center. 706-826-4700.

May 8. Party in the Park with Country Music's Ris-ing Stars. A free acoustic concert featuring a vari-ety of rising stars from our area and Nashville. This fundraiser for the Columbia County Exchange Club begins at 7 p.m. at Lady Antebellum Pavilion @ Ev-ans Towne Center Park. Gates open at 6 p.m. Call Darrell Byrd at 706-951-5414 for information.

May 8-9. Aiken Bluegrass Festival. Headliners in-clude Town Mountain, Doug and the Henrys, Larry Keel, Crying Wolf and Greensky Bluegrass. The fes-tival bene�ts STAR Riding (Specialized Therapeutic and Recreational Riding). Aiken Fairgrounds. For in-formation, visit www.aikenbluegrassfestival.org.

May 9. WRDW Family Fair. A day of family fun and excitement on the Augusta Common presented by WRDW news. Noon-4 p.m. Call 803-278-1212.

May 9. Blind Willie McTell Blues Festival. This popu-lar annual event features artists who offer the best in American music, focusing on Americana, folk, gospel, rock, blues and all its variations. This year’s line-up includes Marcia Ball, John Hammond, Golden State-Lone Star Revue, Chris Smither, Mingo Fishtrap and the Bruce Katz Band. Thomson, Ga. For tickets and information, visit www.blindwillie.com.

May 14. Cotton Ball. Historic Augusta’s Cotton Ball will be held this year at the home of Mr. and Mrs. George Bush, 1300 Buena Vista Rd. Admission to the Cotton Ball is by current, new or renewing member-ship in Historic Augusta, Inc. 6:30-9:30 p.m. For more information call Historic Augusta. 706-724-0436.

May 16. Mayfest. This outdoor concert is �lled with live gospel, R&B and hip-hop music by national, re-gional and local artists. An array of vendors will also be on site. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. May Park. 622 4th St. 803-279-2330.

May 16. Pedal Through the Past. Bring your bike and enjoy a ride on the River Levee Trail. 10 a.m. Meet at Lake Olmstead bulkhead entrance to the canal. www.augustacanal.com or 706-823-0440.

May 16. Paddlefest. Annual kayak/canoe/standup paddleboard race and homemade raft building com-petition. There will also be a homemade boat show, food vendors and live entertainment following the rac-es. 8-10 a.m. Starts at the headgates footbridge on the Savannah River. www.savannahriverkeeper.org.

May 16. Thunder Over Augusta. Live musical per-formances, aerial demonstrations, food vendors, ex-hibits and a spectacular �reworks show. All in honor of Armed Forces Day. Free admission. Evans Towne Center Park. www.thunderoveraugusta.com.

May 22. Community Block Party. This kick-off to summer vacation is for families with children ages 14 and under. Free good, live performances, radio remotes and more. Call 706-722-5613 for informa-tion. 3-7 p.m. at MLK Boulevard and Turpin Street.

May 22-23. Banjo-B-Que. Bluegrass festival and sanctioned barbecue competition. A stop on the Great American festival will feature performances by Trampled by Turtles and Vance Joy. Craft beer, pet-ting zoo, pig races and more. Evans Towne Center Park. www.banjobque.com.

May 29, June 19. Movie Series at the Common. Pre-movie activities start at 7:30 p.m. Movie starts at dusk. Augusta Common. 706-821-1754.

CORRECTION

Our apologies! The information regarding the summer day camps listed for Gymnas-tics Gold was incorrect in our April issue's annual Camp Guide. Here is the correct in-formation. (Note: The information in our on-line camp guide at www.augustafamily.com has been updated.)

Gymnastics Gold124 Cedar Lane, Martinez.www.gymnasticsgold.com.

706-650-2111.

Camp Flip Flop. Ages 4-13. May 26-August 7, closed June 27-July 5. $36 per day or $130 per week. Camp hours 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Early drop off at 7:30 a.m. and late pickup at 5:30 p.m. at no additional cost. Weekly themes. Activities include gymnas-tics, games, crafts, movies, special guests and more. Bring sack lunch, bathing suits (Tuesday and Thursday), towel, sunscreen, shoes and a change of clothes.

Preschool Camp Flip Flop. Ages 3-5. June 1-5: Under the Big Top, June 22-26: Moose Beach, July 6- 10: Disney at the Gym, July 20-24: Tumbling Cooks. 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. $60 per week. Please bring a sack lunch. Wear bathing suits on Tuesday and Thursday. Bring a towel, shoes, sunscreen and a change of clothes. Must be potty trained.

Summer Gymnastics Classes. Check web-site for dates and times.


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June 3. Story Time with Anne Sprinkle and her Therapy Dogs. Learn about therapy dogs and watch them perform tricks. Registration suggested for groups of six or more. 10 a.m. Jeff Maxwell Branch Library. 706-793-2020

June 4. Jay Leno. The comedian, children’s book author and former Tonight Show host will appear at the Bell Auditorium. 7:30 p.m. www.augustaenter-tainmentcomplex.com.

June 6. Mudbugabeaux N Brew Festival. A craw-�sh boil and craft beer festival that will include a craw�sh eating contest. 3-9 p.m. at the Augusta Common. For information: 706-855-5511 or French-marketwest.com.

June 10. Sesame Street Live—Make a New Friend. Elmo, Grover, Abby Cadabby and their Sesame Street friends welcome Chamki, Grover’s friend from India, to Sesame Street. 10:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. Bell Auditorium. www.augustaentertainmentcom-plex.com.

June 10, 17 & 24. Family Movie Matinees. Jabez Hardin Performing Arts Center at the Columbia County Library.

June 14. Kevin Hart What Now Tour. Comedy star and entertainer at the James Brown Arena. 7 p.m. wwwaugustaentertainmentcomplex.com.

HISTORY AND SCIENCE

May 2 & June 6. Swamp Saturday Guided Hike. Leisurely hike through 2.5 miles of nature park trails, departing from Swamp Shop & Visitor’s Center. 9:30 a.m. Phinizy Swamp Nature Park. www.phinizycen-ter.org.

May 6. Brown Bag History Lecture: Healing Hands and Technology. Lecture by MCG historian Dr. Rob-ert Nesbitt. Bring a lunch; light refreshments pro-vided. Reservations not required. 12:30-1:30 p.m. Augusta Museum of History. 706-722-8454.

June 8-12. Summer Adventures: Dig History. Explore ancient hunting methods, learn what gar-bage says about us, work with professional ar-chaeologists to excavate Jeffersonian Publishing Plant. Ages 11-17. Bring sack lunch and water bottle each day. Hickory Hill, Historic Home of Thomas, E. Watson, 502 Hickory Hill Dr., Thom-son. Call 706-595-7777 to register. www.hickory-hill.org.

Reed Creek Park and Interpretive Center3820 Park Lane, Martinez.706-210-4027. www.ReedCreekPark.com.Children must be accompanied by an adult.Pre-registration required.

May 8. Water Works. Enjoy a stream habitat assess-ment and macroinvertebrate survey to assess water quality in Reed Creek. Ages 12 and up. 4:30-5:30 p.m.

May 22 & June 27. Nocturnal Nightcrawlers. Learn about animals that are active at night and discuss how they are able to be so crafty while everyone else is sound asleep. For ages 5 and up. 7:30-8:30 p.m. on May 22, 8:30-9:30 p.m. on June 27.

May 27 & June 30. Insect Investigations. Learn about our six-legged friends as you catch and re-lease insects with bug nets in different areas of the park. Ages 5 and up. 4:30-5:30 p.m. on May 27, 10-11 a.m. on June 30.

May 29. All About Frogs. Go outdoors to listen to frogs using the calling survey protocol. Ages 5 and up. 7:30-8:30 p.m.

June 6 or 26. Pond Exploration. With dip nets in hand, children will explore and learn about what ani-mals live in our pond. Ages 5 and up. Be prepared to get a little bit wet and muddy. 10-11 a.m. June 23. Pollution Solution. This program includes hands-on activities demonstrating the various types of pollution and their causes and effects. We’ll then discuss possible solutions and recognize ways to reduce, reuse, and recycle. For ages 5 and up. 10-11 a.m.

THE ARTS, MUSIC AND MORE

May 1. 50th Gala Performance: Celebrating Ron Colton’s 50 Years in Augusta. Dance Augusta cel-ebrates with a repertory performance of all premiere works by emerging and established choreographers. 7 p.m. Imperial Theatre. (706)722-8341.

May 3. Augusta Chorale’s Annual Spring Concert. 4 p.m. Gilbert Lambuth Memorial Chapel. Paine Col-lege. 706-830-0991.

May 1-2, 7-9, and 14-16. Shear Madness. This unique comedy-whodunit takes place in the Shear Madness hairstyling salon and is chock full of up-to-the-minute spontaneous humor. 7 p.m. Fort Gordon Dinner Theatre. 706-793-8552.

May 3. Celtic Woman. This enchanting musical experience features Celtic Woman performing a treasure chest of traditional Irish standards, classi-cal favorites and contemporary pop songs, with an unforgettable signature style. 3 p.m. Bell Auditorium. www.augustaentertainmentcomplex.com.

May 7 and 8. Forbidden Broadway. From Annie to Phantom to Wicked, this funny satirical roast of more than 30 Broadway hits features outrageous costumes, hilarious rewrites of the songs you know

by heart and dead-on impressions by a stellar cast. Aiken Performing Arts Group. 7:30 p.m. URS The-ater. Aiken. 803-643-4774.

May 8-10. Shrek, the Musical. The Augusta Players close their season with the premiere of Shrek, the Musical, based on the Oscar-winning DreamWorks �lm that started it all. Presented by the Augusta Players. May 8 and 9, 8 p.m. May 10, 3 p.m. Imperial Theatre. For tickets, www.augustaplayers.org.

May 10. A Mother’s Day Celebration: Love and Laughter With Anthony Hamilton and Bruce Bruce. Hamilton is joined by Bruce Bruce, whose name is synonymous with keeping audiences laughing thanks to his captivating improv skills and comedic style. 7:30 p.m. Bell Auditorium. www.augustaenter-tainmentcomplex.com.

May 12. John Fogerty: Celebrating One Extraordi-nary Year “1969.” John Fogerty is one of popular music’s all-time greatest singers, guitar players and songwriters. 7:30 p.m. Bell Auditorium. www.augus-taentertainmentcomplex.com.

May 14. Art Exhibition Opening Reception: Linda Hardy. The artist retired from her medical practice and began painting, studying under David Masca-ro. Though initially painting in oils, Hardy has dis-covered a preference for acrylics. 5-7 p.m. Exhibit through June 26. Sacred Heart Cultural Center. 706-826-4700.

May 22, 23, 29 & 30, June 5 & 6. Les Miserables. Aiken Community Playhouse presents this classic tale of Jean Valjean, who is released from 19 years of unjust imprisonment but �nds nothing in store for him but mistrust and mistreatment. All shows at 8 p.m. 126 Newberry St., SW, Aiken. www.aikenplay-house.us.

May 23. Augusta Choral Society Memorial Day Concert. A performance of music and readings in recognition of service men and women. 7:30 p.m. Sacred Heart Cultural Center. 706-826-4713.

June 14-21. Southeastern Piano Festival. Each summer the Southeastern Piano Festival transforms the University of South Carolina School of Music and Columbia into a major cultural destination that draws in audiences and young piano talent from across the United States. The Southeastern Piano Festival em-braces a multi-faceted personality. It is a high-level training platform for the young pianists; a presenter of new and world-renowned concert pianists and master teachers; an advocate for new piano music. For a full schedule of performances and events, visit www. sepf.music.sc.edu.

June 19, 20, 26 & 27. Blood Money. Presented by Aiken Community Playhouse. Mike Mason and his wife were involved in a hit and run accident in which

Here’s your chance to tell us your Family Favorites...those people, places, restaurants, schools and spots for family fun that make our city such a unique place to live. Cast your vote for those places and people you think deserve recognition for a job well done, focusing on places that are family friendly. No photocopies accepted. One ballot per reader please! All ballot categories must be completed in order for votes to be

considered. Fold ballot, place in envelope and mail with correct postage to:

AUGUSTA FAMILY MAGAZINE

Online voting available at www.augustafamily.com

ARTS/MUSIC/DANCINGVisual Art InstructionJazz/Hip Hop Dance LessonsTraditional Dance LessonsMusic Lessons (piano, violin, drums, etc.)Performing Arts Group

FAMILY FUNAnnual Family EventDay TripTraditional Family PhotographerNon-Traditional Family PhotographerIndoor PlaygroundIndoor PlaygroundOvernight TripPicnic SpotRainy Day OutingStory Time

FOODBreakfast SpotBurgersDessertsDrive-�ru

Date Night RestaurantRestaurant-ChainRestaurant-Locally OwnedFriesPizzaChicken FingersMac & Cheese

Place To Get Co�eeHealthy MenuPlace for Ice CreamKids Menu

LIFESTYLE/MEDICALAuto ServiceFinancial Institution (Bank or Credit Union)Place for Children’s HaircutsComputer Repair ServicePlace to Get Co�eeVeterinarianDog GroomerKennelPediatrician

Pediatric DentistOB/GYNOrthodontistA�er-Hours Medical CareFamily Vision Care

MEDIARadio StationTelevision StationLocal websiteFavorite Part of Augusta Family Magazine

PARTIESBirthday Cakes

Toddler Party PlaceElementary Age Party PlaceBoys PartiesGirls PartiesSchool/Class PartiesParty Supply Store

EDUCATIONDaycareElementary SchoolMiddle SchoolHigh SchoolTutoring Service

SHOPPINGCar Dealer

Baby ClothesBoys ClothesGirls ClothesConsignment ShopGrocery StoreSchool SuppliesToy Store

SPORTSChildren/Teen Sports ProgramFamily Sporting EventGymnastics/Cheer InstructionMartial Arts ProgramSwimming LessonsTennis ProgramFamily Fitness Center


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a young teenage girl was killed. All shows at 8 p.m. 126 Newberry St. SW. www.aikenplayhouse.us.

June 20. John Mellencamp Plain Spoken 2015 North American Tour. 7:30 p.m. at the Bell Audito-rium. (877) 4AUGTIX.

Morris Museum of Art1 Tenth St. 706-724-7501 or www.themorris.org.

May 1-June 7. For the Birds: Folk Art Birdhouses. Birdhouses are a matter of keen interest to serious collectors of folk art. This exhibition is a represen-tative sample of a large collection of these engag-ing objects, which the Morris Museum of Art has acquired from one of its most generous supporters, collector Julia J. Norrell.

May 1-July 19. Steffen Thomas Rediscovered. Proli�c and multifaceted, artist Steffen Thomas was born in Fürth, Germany, but lived most of his adult life in Georgia. Though he’s particularly noted for monumental public art, he was the master of many media, including painting (oils, watercolor and en-caustic), sculpture, mosaic and printmaking. Much of his work exhibits the in�uence of expressionism, which originated in Germany early in the 20th cen-tury.

May 1. Films on Friday: Show Boat (1936). The Morris Museum of Art commences a summer of musicals about the South with a screening of this Jerome Kern-Oscar Hammerstein II masterpiece. Afterward museum director Kevin Grogan leads a discussion. Participants are invited to bring a lunch. Free. Noon.

May 3. Artrageous! Family Sunday: Falconer Dale Arrowood and His Winged Ambassadors. Meet conservationist and master falconer Dale Arrowood during a live show featuring a variety of native birds of prey. Learn about the birds in our area and create a bird feeder for your own backyard. Free. 2-4 p.m.

May 10. Music at the Morris. Enjoy bluegrass and mountain gospel songs by the award-winning Kelley Family Band. Free. 2 p.m.

May 14. Exhibition Celebration. Commemorating the art showcased in Steffen Thomas Rediscovered and Paintings by William Willis. 6 p.m.

May 16. Art Workshop: Decorate a Birdhouse. Pre-fab houses, gourds and a variety of materials will be on hand so that you can create a masterpiece for your feathered friends. Appropriate for all ages. Noon-4 p.m.

May 22. Art at Lunch. Andrew and Hathla Hayes, guest curators of the exhibition Steffen Thomas Re-discovered, discuss the artist’s vibrant life. Lunch in-cluded. Pre-registration required by May 20. Noon.

SPORTS

May 2. Augusta Relay for Life. Organized com-munity fundraiser with teams taking turns walking around the track. Survivors, caretakers and commu-nity members can register at www.relayforlife.org/augustaGA. 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Westside High School.

May 16-17. USA Rugby Southern Conference Championships. The winners of the Division 2 and Division 3 men’s tournament and Division 2 women’s competition will earn the opportunity to compete in the USA Rugby National Championships in Glendale, Colo. Hosted by the Augusta Rugby Football Club in partnership with Columbia County Parks and Rec-reation and the Columbia County CVB. Blanchard Woods Park in Evans. 706-830-7680.

May 17. Lock to Lock Bike Ride. Want to discuss adventure? Join this annual bicycling event for a scenic route of Augusta. Beginning at the Savannah Rapids Pavilion and back, the National Trails Fest Ride is an opportunity to spend a Sunday morning with your family and friends as you discover the real Augusta! Pre-Registration is required at Andy Jor-dan's Bicycle Shop located on 13th Street Down-town until Saturday, May 16th by 5 p.m. Ride is from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. All ages are invited. For more informa-tion, please call 706-724-2453 or visit www.andyjor-dans.com.

June 13. Paws in the Park Pet Walk. The CSRA Humane Society presents this pet walk for all ages. Registration at 9:30 a.m., walk at 10 a.m. Pets should be healthy, at least 4 months old and have current vaccinations, including rabies. Refreshments. Mi-crochip clinic 10 a.m.-noon. Booths, vendors and more from 1-4 p.m. Bene�ts the care and support of the pets at the shelter. 425 Wood St., Augusta. 706-261-7387. www.csrahumanesociety.org.

CSRA Defensive Arts803-221-0330 or csraDefensiveArts.com.Martial Arts Classes. Ages 8-adult. Goshinjitsu, Kin-dai Karate and Kobojutsu. Call for information.

RECREATION PROGRAMS

Champions Made From AdversityP.O. Box 980, Evans, Ga.706-364-2422.www.cmfa.us.This nonpro�t organization strives to advance the lives of people with physical disabilities and their families through sport and leisure opportunities.

Current weekly schedule:Monday—Adapted �tness at the Kroc Center, 2-4 p.m. and wheelchair basketball at Garrett Elemen-tary School, 6:30-8 p.m.Tuesday—Swimming at Fort Gordon, 9-11 a.m., and quad rugby at the Kroc Center, 6-8 p.m.

Wednesday—Wheelchair basketball, 6:30-8 p.m.Thursday—Swimming at Fort Gordon, 9-11 a.m., and Adapted Fitness at the Kroc Center, 3-5 p.m.Friday—Adapted cycling at the uptown VA, 1:30-2:30 p.m.

The Family YFinancial assistance is available for all Family Y pro-grams. Register at any branch or online at www.the-familyy.org or call 706-922-9622.

Weekly. Family Y Summer Day Camps. The Family Y offers a variety of day camps at locations throughout the CSRA. For complete listings, please visit our web-site at www.augustafamily.com and click on the Camp Guide on the Resource Guides pull-down menu.

May 1-10. Lacrosse Registration. Season played June 15-August 8. Ages 7-15.

May 8, June 12. Freedom Friday at Augusta South Family YMCA. An evening of fun for ages 8 weeks to 12 years from 6–9:30 p.m. Free for active duty military families.

May 9, June 13. Parent’s Night Out at Marshall Family YMCA & Family YMCA of North Augusta. Fun, entertaining nigh for children ages 2-12 years from 6-9:30 p.m.

May 16, June 20. Parent’s Night Out at Family Y of Aiken County. Fun, entertaining nigh for children ages 2-12 from 5:30-9 p.m.

May 22, June 25. Parent’s Night Out at Wilson Family Y. Enjoy a date night while your kids have fun at the Y from 6-9:30 p.m.

May 23, June 27. Parent’s Night Out at Augusta South Family Y. Enjoy a date night while your kids have fun at the Y from 6-9:30 p.m.

June 1-August 6. Swim Lessons. Weekly sessions

Augusta GreenJackets Home Game Schedule

Lake Olmstead StadiumFor tickets 706-736-7889

Sunday games, 2 p.m.All other days, 7 p.m.

www.greenjacketsbaseball.com

May 1-4 vs DelmarvaMay 14-17 vs HickoryMay 21-24 vs AshevilleMay 25-27 vs GreenvilleJune 4-7 vs Lexington

June 16-21 vs Savannah


Summer CampSummer CampSummer Camps

calendarSummer CampSummer CampSummer Camps



of swim lessons available for all ages and skill levels, ages 6 months to adult beginners. Open to Family Y members and non-members. Discount for addi-tional siblings. Classes offered at the Wilson Fam-ily Y, Family Y of Aiken County and the Family Y of Downtown Augusta.

June 8-July 5. Registration for Soccer School & Youth Soccer at the Wilson Family Y. Soccer School is for ages 3-4. Youth Soccer is for ages5-15 years.

Ongoing. Tae Kwon Do at Family Y of Augusta South. Tae Kwon Do teaches self-discipline, focus and social skills. Beginner classes Tuesday/Thurs-day at 5:30 p.m. and Advanced classes Tuesday/Thursday at 6:30 p.m.

1833 Broad Street, Augusta.www.krocaugusta.org.706-364-KROC [email protected] or email for course fee information.

May 1 & June 5. Kids Night Out. Parents enjoy a

night out by bringing your child, ages 2-12, to the Kroc Center the �rst Friday of each month. Activities may include swimming, gym play, in�atables and crafts. Children must be potty trained. 6-10 p.m. Call for fees.

May 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29. Kroc Tots Activity Hour. Ages 18 months to 5 years. An action-packed play date for parents and toddlers featuring children’s litera-ture, art and craft projects and social play. A guard-ian must remain with the child during Kroc Tots. 9:30-10:30 a.m.

May 2-23. Lifeguarding Saturday Classes. Every Saturday from 8 a.m.-3 p.m.

May 4-16 or May 18-30. Lifeguarding Two-Week Class. The course content and activities prepare participants to recognize and respond quickly and effectively to emergencies and prevent drownings and injuries. Monday, Tuesday & Thursday, 6-10 p.m. Saturday 8 a.m.-3 p.m.

May 5, 12, 19 & 26. Toddler Tuesday. Walkers up to 5 years. Enjoy the splash area and more. One adult is free per child admission. Parent must remain with the child. Swim diaper and plastic pants are required for infants and toddlers. 10:30 a.m.-noon.

May 6, 13, 20 & 27. Kroc Kids. Free and open to the community. Ages 4 years through 12th grade. Youth of all ages will build character, explore per-sonal strengths, develop life skills, make music and more. Program separated by age. 5 p.m. Call Kroc Church at 706-364-4278 for details.

May 16. First Aid, CPR & AED. Be prepared to re-spond to common �rst aid emergencies including burns, cuts, head, neck and back injuries and car-diac and breathing emergencies in adults, as well as the use of automated external de�brillators (AED). 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

May 26-August 14. Camp Kroc. An ACA accredited day camp program where children are in a safe and positive environment. Campers enjoy swimming, arts and crafts, group games, sports, Bible lessons and more.

May 29. Family Movie Night. Members may reserve seats up to a week before the event. Spots are �lled on a �rst-come, �rst-served basis. Refreshments will be available for purchase. Adult must remain with children. Call for movie title. Free. 6 p.m.

June 26. Family Movie Night on the Lawn. Free. 7 p.m. Grab your beach chair or blanket for a night out with the family. When the sun goes down, the family fun begins with movies for all ages! There are activi-ties planned before the movie, so arrive early, stake your ground and have some fun. Refreshments will

be available for purchase. Children 18 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Movie will start at dusk.

HOSPITAL PROGRAMS

Register online at gru.edu.

Ongoing. Support Group for Families Who Have Lost a Baby During Pregnancy, Childbirth or Early Infancy. Call 706-721-8299 or visit their website.

First Tuesday of Each Month. Autism Spectrum Disorder Support and Resource Group (The “A-Team”). Education and support for families, care-givers and friends of children with autism spec-trum disorders including autism, Asperger’s and PDD NOS. 6-7 p.m. Children’s Hospital of Geor-gia, First Floor, Family Resource Library, Room 1801. Call Family Services Development at 706-721-5160 for more information.

First Thursday and Third Wednesday of Each Month. Cribs for Kids. Co-bunking and inappropriate infant furniture are putting area babies at risk. Safe Kids Greater Augusta, led by Children's Hospital of Geor-gia, will teach caregivers how to provide a safe sleep environment by showing what dangers to watch out for. Families who can demonstrate a �nancial need (Medicare, Peachcare or WICC) will receive a portable crib, �tted sheet, sleep sac and paci�er for a small fee. Call Rene Hopkins at 706-721-7606 to register. 5:45-8 p.m. on the �rst Thursday of the month, 9:45 a.m.-noon on the third Wednesday of each month. Safe Kids Of�ce, Building 1010C,1225 Walton Way.

First Friday and Second Wednesday of Each Month. Child Safety Seat Inspections. Four out of �ve car seats are used incorrectly. Schedule an ap-pointment to make sure yours is installed properly. First Friday of the month in Building 1010C, 1225 Walton Way. Call Rene Hopkins, RN, at 706-721-7606 to schedule an appointment at the downtown location. The second Wednesday each month at Columbia County Sheriff’s Of�ce Substation, 650 Ronald Reagan Dr. Call 706-541-3870 to make an appointment at the Columbia County location.

Second Thursday and Fourth Wednesday of Each Month. Car Seat Class. Safe Kids Greater Augusta offers car seat safety, education and training. Finan-cial assistance is available to Medicaid and Peach Care eligible families. Safe Kids Of�ce, Building 1010C, 1225 Walton Way. Call 706-721-7606 to reg-ister. 5:45-8 p.m.

Second Thursday of Each Month. NICU Parent Sup-port Group. Noon-1 p.m. in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, 5th Floor, Children’s Hospital of Georgia; For more information, call Sylvia McCoy at 706-721-2286.

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SEWING CLASSESMY BEST FRIEND’S SEWING

ROOM

3850 Washington Rd., Suite 4C, La Petite Plaza.706-993-8819 or email [email protected]/mybestfriendssewingroom.Call or email for class fees. Pre-registration is required for all classes and events.

May 2. American Girl Doll Party. Make a blan-ket and pillow for your American Girl doll at this open event. Don’t forget your doll! Sewing machines & supplies included. 10 a.m.-noon. Ages 8 & up.

May 9. Mommy & Me. Celebrate Mother’s Day early by making a sewing date with your child and sew your own aprons. Supplies are in-cluded. 10 a.m.-noon. Children must be ages 9 and up.

May 16. Drawstring Beach Bag. Get ready for the beach with this terry cloth beach bag. Sup-plies and machine use included. 10 a.m.-noon. Ages 9 and up.

May 26-30. Sewing Skills Primer. Get a jump start on summer sewing camp by booking a private sewing lesson during this week to learn sewing machine basics. By appointment only. Limited slots. Ages 9 and up.


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Third Tuesday of Each Month. Breastfeeding Class. A free class led by an International Board Certi�ed Lactation Consultant. Helps expectant parents gain knowledge and support to ensure successful breast-feeding. 7-9 p.m., Georgia Regents Medical Center, 7th Floor South, Room 7524.

Trinity Hospital of AugustaCall Women’s Health Services at 706-481-7727 or visit trinityofaugusta.com for information and regis-tration. Please call for class times.

May 2 & June 6. Saturday Express Lamaze Child-birth Education. Helps mother and support person understand the �nal stages of pregnancy as well as labor and the birth of your baby. Covers natural and medicated deliveries, Lamaze coping techniques and more. 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

May 7 & June 15. Infant CPR. Learn how to respond in an emergency situation using infant mannequins and a simple step-by-step method. 6-8 p.m.

May 12 & June 16. Childbirth Education 101. Learn about the signs and symptoms of labor as well as labor and delivery. 6-8:30 p.m.

May 15 & June 19. Baby Care Basics & Breast-feeding. This class combines two important topics. A board-certi�ed lactation consultant teaches the class and covers a range of helpful topics including diapering, bathing, feeding, cord care, nipple care, milk storage, weaning and more.

May 15 & June 19. Breastfeeding Support Group. Help, understanding and guidance in breastfeeding.

University Health Care SystemCall 706-774-2825 or logon at www.universityhealth.org/calendar for information. Registration is required for most programs.

May 12-16 (Tuesdays), May 13-27 (Wednesdays), June 1-22 (Mondays, June 2-23 (Tuesdays), June 3-24 (Wednesdays) and June 29-July 24 (Mondays). Pre-natal Education. This multi-week series of childbirth preparation classes is designed to inform and prepare all expectant parents regardless of birth plans. Class topics include various stages of labor, breathing and relaxation and how to care for yourself and your new baby. 7-9 p.m. in the Women’s Center Third Floor Class-room. Registration required.

May 21 & June 18. Breastfeeding Class. This class offers in-depth information on how to evaluate breastfeeding and get off to a good start. Registra-tion is suggested. Call 706-774-2825. 7-8 p.m. at Babies R Us, 4225 Washington Rd., Evans.

May 1 & 2, May 22 & 23, June 5 & 6 or June 19 & 20. Childbirth Preparation Weekend Class. A complete childbirth preparation class designed for those with time constraints or �uctuating schedules. Class meets from 6:30-9:30 p.m. on Friday and from 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. on Saturday. Also included is a fol-low-up evening at the W.G. Watson, M.D., Women’s Center for a tour, question-and-answer session and review.

May 28 & June 25. Introduction to Infant CPR. Do you worry about knowing how to revive your baby should the need arise? This class provides an op-portunity to learn and practice infant CPR on man-nequins and learn other aspects of infant safety. Space is limited, so early registration is suggested. 7-8:30 p.m. v

Submit calendar information to [email protected].


Dream job: Event planner. Wanted to be when she grew up: Growing up in Haiti, helping the sick children was a necessary need. I just

knew it from age 6 that I would want to be a pediatrician. Dream vacation: Australia. Favorite TV show: Scandal. Important life lesson:

At my medical school graduation, Maya Angelou was our speaker and I will always remember her quote, “People will forget what you

said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” Thus far in life, this has been one of the most

important life lessons for me. Quality she admires the most: Honesty. Signature dish: According to me, my mango chutney salmon with

basmati rice. According to my husband, sweet potato souf�é. Favorite indulgence: Moscato and a good movie. Best thing about being

a mom: My children mean the world to me and being a working mom sometimes can be challenging but I witness their unconditional love

every day. Hardest thing about being a mom: Watching your kids grow.

GirlGO

Leila Jerome Clay, M.D. | Persistent

Dr. Leila Jerome Clay, 36, of Evans, is a hematologist. She and her husband, Dameon, a guidance counselor at a Columbia County elemen-tary school, have three children ages 14, 6 and 3. Dr. Clay volunteers with the Sickle Cell Foundation of Georgia and Jack and Jill of Greater Augusta. She enjoys traveling, exercising, reading and dancing.

by Karin Calloway

augusta family magazine may/june 2015

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