H3 Daily

Showing posts with label devin's dash. Show all posts
Showing posts with label devin's dash. Show all posts

Thursday, September 13, 2012

Proactive Cancer Prevention

The topic of my last post was cancer, and while I don’t normally address the same basic topic two posts in a row, in this case it seemed to be the right thing to do. Surveys in the United States and England a have consistently found that cancer is our greatest health fear. And according the American Institute for Cancer Research, only 20% of people believe that cancer is a preventable disease.  Alice Bender MS,RD AICR’s Nutrition Communication Manager, puts it this way , “we have a high level of fear about cancer and a feeling that there is not much we can do about it, and that is a toxic combination.”  

As a follower of H3Daily, you know about  Devin Sheaffer, H3 massage therapist and a friend to all who knew him, passed away on August 26th, 2010. Devin died suddenly of a rare form of stomach cancer that had no known behavioral risk factors. When you see a young vibrant, apparently healthy friend die of cancer, especially a form of cancer with no known cause, it can enhance the fear and reinforce the belief that there is little we can do to prevent it. But the reality is that 1/3 of the most common types of cancers could be prevented by diet, exercise and weight management and another third by not smoking. So while it may appear to many that cancer is a bad luck, random disease (and in some cases such as Devin’s it is), the majority of cancers are caused by things we have control over. Review the AICR’s 10 Recommendations for Cancer Prevention.

We would love to see you next Saturday September 22nd as we celebrate Devin’s life at the 3rd annual Devin’s Dash. Proceeds of the event will be used to send local children with cancer to an overnight camp called Happiness is Camping. Visit the Devin's Dash page on H3Daily for more information about Devin’s Dash, the Happiness is Camping camp or to make a donation if you can’t attend this year's race.

[caption id="attachment_8639" align="alignright" width="420" caption="Good friends Kelia and Devin"][/caption]

Wednesday, September 12, 2012

The Week Ahead

Next week is going to be a big week here at Hilton Head Health. Many of you are traveling from out of town to participate in the third annual Devin's Dash Memorial 5K. You've probably heard a lot of buzz about this event and now it's finally here! In just 10 days we will be celebrating what will be a first 5K for many, a reunion for our H3 family, and a celebration of life for all! I encourage you to join us in the festivities by attending the event, donating to Happiness Is Camping in Devin's honor, or participating in a 5K in your town! Please share your experience with us on Facebook.



What else makes next week so special? Only the fact that Hilton Head Health will be hosting TEDxHiltonHeadthe night before Devin's Dash! That's right, the infamous TED inspired event is coming to Hilton Head for one night only! TED is a nonprofit devoted to 'Ideas Worth Spreading.' It started out (in 1984) as a conference bringing together people from three worlds: Technology, Entertainment, Design. Since then its scope has become ever broader.

TEDx was created in the spirit of TED's mission. The program is designed to give communities, organizations and individuals the opportunity to stimulate dialogue.  Our event is called TEDxHiltonHead, where x=independently organized TED event. At our TEDxHiltonHead event, TEDTalks video and live speakers will combine to spark deep discussion and connection. 

Check out the list of allstar speakers:

  • Tony Knapp - Tony is a highly respected speaker, trainer and consultant. He addresses thousands of men and women each year on a variety of business disciplines and his client list includes such well known companies as General Electric, FedEx, IBM, Marriott International, Nordstrom Department Stores and many other recognizable organizations. Tony is also a frequent contributor to a number of educational institutions including Ohio State University, United States Air Force Academy, University of Illinois and Yale University.

  • Kurt Struver - Kurt was born and raised in the New York City suburbs. He went on to graduate from the NYU Stern School of Business and the Columbia University Not For Profit Institute. In his professional life he was the Business Manager for the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum and Administrator for the Cooper-Hewitt Museum, the National Museum of Design and the Smithsonian Institution. Since 1988 he has been the Development Director, Administrator and currently the Executive Director at Happiness is Camping a Non-Profit summer camp in New Jersey for girls and boys with cancer.

  • Jennifer Graftdyk - Jennifer Graftdyk is Australian born, but is truly a citizen of the world. Continental parents, living overseas and extensive travel lead her to thirst for life. A passion for inspiring experiences, different lands and ancient knowledge brought on her pursuit of whole spectrum wellness. She graduated from Dovestar Holistic School with certificates in Colon Hydrotherapy, Inner Cleansing, Kriya Master Massage Therapy, and Reiki Master…just to name a few. Jennifer was the Executive Director of the Southeast division of Dovestar Holistic School for 6 years and a Senior teacher at Dovestar Holistic School for 8 years. She founded her own wellness location, Oasis Life Spa in 2006. Jennifer's extensive experience shows her deep love of the industry and passion for self discovery.

  • Lyle Orr - Lyle's talk is going to leave you feeling inspired to conquer anything! Lyle Orr lives in New Richmond, WI with his wife Jessica, son Jacob and daughter Ashlie. New Richmond is near the border with Minnesota where Lyle was raised on a large resort. Professionally, Lyle has worked as a Business Intelligence Data Architect for Univita Health for the past 12 years. When not performing his ‘Data Geek’ skills, he enjoys spending time with... his DJ business doing school dances and weddings which he has built over the last 13 years. Since his visit to Hilton Head Health in April 2011, he has enjoyed substantial weight loss and overall improved health that better enables him to spend time in the outdoors fishing, hunting and spending much more meaningful time with his family. Wellness has become a passion for Lyle trying to inspire and help others that struggle with weight issues.

  • Lisette Volz, MSW, LMSW - This talk will come from the heart... Lisette is the Director of Behavioral Health for Hilton Head Health. In addition to facilitating psychotherapy sessions with a solution-focused approach to increasing personal happiness, Lisette lectures on subjects related to emotional resilience, motivation, and mindfulness. She has a special interest in food addiction, obesity related issues, and emotional eating. Lisette received her Master’s in Social Work at the University of South Carolina and received post-graduate training in mind/body medicine from the Harvard Mind/Body Medical Institute. Her training at Harvard won her the position of Program Director for the Columbia Mind/Body Medical Institute. Her eclectic experiences include owning a private practice in psychotherapy, being the Event Marketing Manager for Food & Wine Magazine, and owning an indoor-inflatable play center and toyshop for children. She has two daughters, Gabrielle age 11 and Delany age 8.

  • Bob Wright, M.A.T. - The Yoda himself will also be speaking... Bob Wright is the Director of Education at Hilton Head Health. His goal is to provide Guests with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions on personal health habits. His expertise includes nutrition, weight loss management and disease prevention. Bob has been educating Guests at Hilton Head Health for over 30 years and holds a Master's degree in Health Education from the University of South Carolina.

  • Adam Martin, B.S., ACSM Health Fitness Specialist® - Adam is the Hilton Head Health Director of Fitness, responsible for Lifetime Fitness and the Internship Program. Adam provides education, weight and health assessment and programming, as well as individualized fitness training.  Adam graduated with a B.S. degree from the University of Florida in Exercise Physiology/Biomechanics and is certified through the American College of Sports Medicine as a Health Fitness Specialist.


More information can be found at https://www.facebook.com/TEDxHiltonHead.

Wednesday, August 22, 2012

Devin's Dash - One Month To Go!

If you subscribe to our weekly e-newsletter, you already know today marks one month until Devin’s Dash 2012!

This will be my second time attending Devin’s Dash and my first time running in it. Last year I had the opportunity to cheer for everyone as they crossed the finish line. I can’t tell you how impactful it was seeing everyone’s smiling faces and hearing friends and family cheer for their loved ones. I watched as each person received a high-five from Robert Moore and embraced Adam Martin and Kelia Bennett while thanking them for all their encouraging words. Of all the 5K’s I’ve attended, I’ve realized Devin’s Dash is truly one that embraces the spirit of what the race is all about. Not everyone participating knew Devin, myself included, but after all the touching stories from those who did, you can actually feel his energy at the race. For many, Devin’s Dash is a time when they complete something they never thought they could do—their first 5K; for others, it’s a time to reunite with friends; but for everyone, it’s a time to give thanks for all the influential people you’ve come across in life.

I am looking forward to honoring Devin and all those in my family who have faced cancer by running in this year’s race. I am also excited about raising money for such an amazing cause. This year’s event proceeds benefit Happiness Is Camping, a summer camp for children affected by cancer run by a former H3 Guest. Recently, Adam volunteered at the camp and shared some of his pictures below.

If you haven’t done so already, I encourage you to register for the race. Registering really is the first step in holding you accountable. I also recommend joining the Devin’s Dash Facebook event page. Every time I check the page I get even more excited about the event! You can also message me at aglover@hhhealth.com if you would like to contribute pictures to the Devin’s Dash board on Pinterest.

So with one month to go, I bid you happy training and hope to see you on Sept. 22nd!

Adam's visit to Happiness Is Camping:





 



 

Wednesday, August 10, 2011

5K Training - We'll help you every step of the way



Do you want to run in a 5K but don’t know where to start? Have you run in a 5K and would now like to improve your time? Well, you’re in luck! This year, Hilton Head Health is offering a free 5K Training Program to anyone who is planning to participate in an upcoming 5K!

We are a little more than eight weeks away from celebrating the life of beloved H3 staff member Devin Sheaffer through one of his favorite activities: running! Last year you helped up raise over $10,000 for the American Cancer Society at the Devin’s Dash Memorial 5K and this year, we’re hoping the race will be even bigger and better.

As we prepare for Devin’s Dash 2011, we’d like to invite you to join our first ever 5K Training Program! Like similar training programs such as Couch to 5K, this program provides you with a all the tools you’ll need to get physically and mentally ready for your 5K! Whether you’ll be in Hilton Head for Devin’s Dash on October 8th, or are planning to participate in a 5K near you, by the end of this program you’ll feel prepared for your race.

The Devin's Dashers training program includes:

  • A Running Coach available to answer your questions and guide you every step of the way via e-mail and Facebook.

  • Weekly lessons to help enhance your performance by learning important components of training.

  • Daily training tips, motivational quotes, and stories from previous H3 Guests and H3 staff members who have participated in a 5K in the past.

  • Invitation to join a private Facebook Group where you and other members of the training program can openly encourage and learn from one another. Who knows, you may even find a training buddy!


There are three different plans available: a beginners plan for those who would like to only walk or walk/jog during their training, an intermediate plan for semi-regular runners who would like to improve their 5K running time through track workouts and tempo runs, and an advanced plan for regular runners that incorporates even more track workouts, tempo runs and distance runs than the intermediate plan.

Training begins Monday, August 15th ! The last day to join the program will be this Friday, August 12th so gather your friends and sign up today! E-mail your Training Coach, Amy Kelderhouse, at akelderhouse@hhhealth.com, (subject: I want to be a Devin’s Dasher) if you would like to sign up to be a Devin’s Dasher, or have any questions about the training program.

We look forward to training with you!

Friday, December 31, 2010

Top 8 Hilton Head Health Moments of 2010

Here are eight of the many amazing moments in 2010.  What were your top H3 moments of 2010?  Relive your experience in the comments section!

Yoga Retreat

8.  Yoga Retreat – On May 15th, 2010 we completed our first ever yoga retreat with Karen Verechia.  It was an enormous success!  The three magnificent days were spent practicing various styles of yoga in some of the most beautiful and tranquil places on Hilton Head Island including: White Point on Pinckney Island, Lake Joe in the Sea Pines Forest Preserve, and a barren tidal island in the middle of the May River.

7.  The Return of Jeff and Jen – Jeff Ford and Jen Welper both returned to Hilton Head Health in 2010.  Jeff, previously a program intern in the fall of 2009, became a full-time fitness specialist in May 2010.  It was a no brainer to invite Jeff back to H3 after how well received he had been the previous fall.  His passion for Health and Fitness is infectious!  Jen Welper left Hilton Head Health en route to Chicago in 2008, but realized that H3 was her home away from home.  So, in 2010 when the position of executive chef reopened, Jen Welper was the obvious shoe-in.  Both Jeff and Jen added a tremendous amount of experience and enthusiasm to an already incredible H3 team.

Hilton Head Health

6.  New Pool and Front Entrance – In the early spring of 2010 we opened a brand new state-of-the-art swimming pool.  The geothermal heating system combined with mineral filtration and zero degree entry was the first pool of its kind on Hilton Head Island.  The nearly 25-meter pool’s rectangular shape gave H3 the ability to start teaching a variety of new classes.  Oh and let’s not forget the new Hot Tub that had been a desire of repeat guests for years.  About two months later we finished the world class front entrance, fountain and sitting area.

5.  H3 Direct and Our First Corporate Wellness Client – The Zeigler Group, an auto dealer in the Grand Rapids/Kalamazoo area of Michigan, became our first ever corporate wellness client.  The owner, Harold Zeigler, and his son visited H3 and wanted a way to start implementing the healthy tactics in their workplace.  They enlisted the help of H3 by bringing the experts to their employees.  Bob Wright and I each gave two days of lectures to hundreds of their motivated employees.  Soon they were dropping pounds and getting fit.  H3 Direct was born and interest in the now nationwide program blossomed.

4.  Two Brand-Spanking-New Sister Websites, H3Daily.com and HHHealth.com – If you’ve been reading H3Daily.com for a while you know that it’s gone through a major overhaul as well as an overall improvement in content.  Video, recipes, workouts and articles are now published daily, keeping our guests and their network of friends and family well-informed and motivated.  Then, four weeks ago we unveiled the new flagship HHHealth.com website.  Its combination of strategic organization, design, improved photo content and revamped testimonials page have given potential guests a true representation of what Hilton Head Health is all about.

3.  Wellness Coaching – All six of H3’s Health Specialist’s spent 13 weeks in an intensive wellness coach training program developed by a world-renowned Harvard professor and accredited by the Gold-Standard organization in health and fitness, the ACSM.  The program has improved our in-house individual coaching sessions that every new guest receives, but has also spawned an entire new sector of lifestyle advancement that H3 we’ll be fully unveiling in 2011.  The program includes phone coaching for departing guests that’s expected to drastically improve their opportunity for long-term success. 

group-outdoor-exercise

(Source)

2.  The Filming of the Upcoming HEAVY Documentary for A&E – If you were here this past summer you likely had the opportunity to meet twelve incredible individuals that spent six months at H3 transforming their lives.  Fortunately, for those of you that didn’t get to meet the gang, the entire transformation was captured by Tijuana Entertainment and is set to air throughout the next 3 months starting January 17th, 2010 at 10 pm on A&E.

Devins Dash

1.  Devin’s Dash 5k – In 2010 we lost our beloved massage therapist Devin Schaffer to cancer.  But, his battle brought hundreds of family and friends together on Saturday, October 16th, 2010 in a day that can only be described as divine.  His presence was certainly felt along the 3.1 mile running route in Shipyard Plantation.  The turnout was astounding and the over $10,000 raised for the American Cancer Society was a testament to the impact that Devin had on so many lives.  There is no question that the top moment of 2010 at Hilton Head Health was the race in honor of such a beautiful individual.

Tuesday, November 2, 2010

Lasting Fitness Memories

devins dash medals

This Saturday, the Annual Hilton Head Island Bridge Run takes place, and when I got the registration in the mail, many memories filled my mind.  This 10K was my very first running event, and it’s been an annual ritual each year since.  Having run a few races in between my first and second bridge run, it was surprising to me how much I recalled from my first run as I was along the route the next year.  I remembered the point at which my nerves dwindled and I settled into my pace; the exhilaration of seeing the first place male on their way back to the finish line, and even more the first place female (Go Ladies!).  I remember seeing another runner pass me, having already gotten to the turnaround, only for me to pass him again as he lost his breakfast over the bridge.  I remember the burst of energy I felt as I kicked in the last mile, and the support of my friend at the finish line, who’d encouraged me to sign up for it in the first place.

Since those first 2 years, I’ve ran this race six months pregnant, next as my first event post-partum, and here I am now, about to run it for a sixth time, this time being four months pregnant.  This event has become more than merely a race.  It’s the time in which I reflect on my life – what’s happened in the past year, what lies in the near future, and then also the imagination of what’s even beyond.  I reflect on everything from my fitness, my career, to my family.

I was honestly contemplating on not registering this year.  With confidence and energy running low, not feeling that I’m in as good of shape as I was the past two years even, I wasn’t certain I wanted to go through with it.  But when I think about how much more it means to me than just getting through 6.2 miles, I know I would regret not doing it even more than completing it at a slower pace. 

I share this story with you because, over the past few months especially, I’ve witness how truly meaningful events like 5Ks and triathlons have been for some of our guests at H3.  We have them on our program schedule from time to time, and even run a few private events for our own group.  Many of our guests arrive without a single thought of ever trying a 5K or triathlon… but here, they do it, they succeed at it, and they love it.  Whether it’s the competition, the charity, or the social aspect that turns you on to an event, it’s hard not to find something that you will enjoy about it.  As your mother always says, “Try it, you’ll like it!”

If you need a little boost in your workout routine, or want something to look forward to, sign up for your first 5K today!  You can go to www.active.com to search for events in your area, and we have resources here on H3 Daily to help you train to your best!  If you’ve already got a an event or two under your belt, share your story here.  See ‘ya out on the road!

Monday, October 18, 2010

Devin's Dash 2010 Recap

Devin’s Dash was definitely a morning of PURE ENERGY as emotions ran high.  The morning, in which the weather could not have been more perfect, began with the singing of the national anthem, as runners and walkers then made their way to the start line ready for the whistle to blow.  With over 150 participants, you could feel the excitement, nerves and readiness to race, all for the same cause – to honor Devin by crossing the finish line 3.1 miles later. 

As you approached the finish line, you could feel the energy as cheers echoed as each runner and walker crossed.  After the race, there was a post-race celebration complete with music, dancing, and post race fuel of smoothies and muffins.  Enjoying the company of friends and family, we waited in anticipation for the presentations.  We raffled off the prize donations, and then it was time to hand out the medals for top-finishers. 

Before the fun came to an end, the check presentation brought the laughter to tears of joy as we read the total: over $10,000!  With every registration fee, donation, and raffle ticket purchased – thank you to all who helped make this event a morning of PURE ENERGY!

Here are a few pictures from the event – to view them all visit the H3 Facebook page.

 

[caption id="attachment_3820" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="H3 Staff Volunteer for the Race"]H3 Staff Volunteer for the Race[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_3821" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="Runners and Walkers register for the race"]Runners and Walkers register for the race[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_3823" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="H3 Guests having fun!"]H3 Guests having fun![/caption]

[caption id="attachment_3819" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="Medals Presentation - 1st Place in Age Group!"]Medals Presentation - 1st Place in Age Group![/caption]

[caption id="attachment_3825" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="We raised over $11,000 for the American Cancer Society!"]We raised over $11,000 for cancer prevention![/caption]

If you weren’t able to make it on Saturday, you can watch the check presentation here:

Friday, October 15, 2010

Friday Fitness: 5K Race Tips

You can feel the excitement and energy already building for tomorrow's Devin's Dash 5K Run/Walk here at Hilton Head Health.  We are overwhelmed with the donations and registrations that have been pouring in to help celebrate and remember the life of Devin Scheaffer.  Thank you all who have donated and registered for tomorrow's race.

Here I am, straight from the finish line, with three tips to get you race day ready!



Don't forget to post your times in the discussion box - we look forward to seeing how many people from all over the country participate in honor of Devin.

Check back tomorrow for pictures, video and results from the race!!

Saturday, October 9, 2010

Are you feet ready to make the Dash?

5K runners

In preparation for “Devin’s Dash”, which is simply one energetic week away, one of the best ways to care for your feet is to invest in a good pair of running or walking shoes.

When you get fitted for a new pair of running or walking shoes, unless you are here at H3 and can attend our Shoe Seminar, be sure to go directly to the specialists: a sporting goods store, running store, or podiatrist.  Ask them to help you evaluate the arch of your foot.

Are you…

  1. Flat-footed –your feet have low arches. They tend to roll inward as you run or walk. If this is you, you should look for a shoe that offers more stability.

  2. High arches- your feet roll outward when walking. If this describes you, you should look for a cushioned shoe with greater flexibility to help absorb shock. Insoles, inserted inside your shoes, can also help to support your heels and arches. Inserts can be bought separately by shoe size as well as needs.

  3. "Normal"- your arches don't fit into either extreme. If this is you, you have no worries. Most shoes are made to fit “normal” types.


In addition to evaluating your arches, when choosing running or walking shoes be mindful of pronation, the way that your foot moves after striking the ground. Below are the three types of pronation.

1.     Overpronation occurs when the foot rolls excessively inward, which can lead to muscle strains in both your legs and feet. Overpronators’ also tend to have low arches. Is this is you, you should look for "stability" or "motion control" shoes, which are less flexible, have a thicker heel and help decrease excessive pronation.

2.     Underpronation (supination) describes feet that roll outward when running or walking. Underpronators’ tend to have high arches or "pigeon-toes." Is this is you; you need to look for shoes with extra “cushioning” to help absorb the added impact on your foot strikes.

3.     Normal pronation is most common. Normal is where the foot pronates normally, but not excessively. Is this is you, you should seek  stability shoes, which are more flexible than motion control shoes but still have good support.

We hope this information helps get your feet equipped for Devin’s Dash!!! Stay tuned!

Tuesday, September 28, 2010

Fall is here!

Don’t you just love the fall season!  Growing up in the Midwest, I do miss the beautiful changing leaves on the trees, but that aside, there are so many wonderful things about this season.  Here’s my top 5:

  1. Comfortable temperatures.  The lower heat and humidity makes bike rides, walks/jogs, etc. so much more enjoyable.  It’s a perfect time to hit the nature trails and notice all that’s changing around you.  On my jogs here in the low country, I enjoy watching the marsh grasses change from their vibrant summer green to the yellows and browns that make up their growth cycle.  The monarch butterflies are plentiful and the birds and wildlife are also more active!

  2. Seasonal produce.  After our fill of summer’s berries and melons, yellow squash and asparagus, I welcome the freshness of fruits like apples, pears, cranberries, pomegranates, and kiwis.  The seasonal vegetable seem to multiply with all the cruciferous veggies like cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, and bok choy, not to mention the classics like pumpkin, green beans, acorn and spaghetti squash, edamame, spinach, and collard greens.  Cinnamon and nutmeg are wonderful fall flavors to experiment with your fruits and veggies. 

  3. Cozy comfort.  There’s nothing like pulling out your favorite “hoodie” or soft sweater as you take a walk at sunset or attend an afternoon football game.  I love the crisp cool air on your face as your body is warm inside that favorite, comfortable sweater you’ve had for years.  Anyone with me?

  4. Warm colors of fall.  With orange tones sending vibes of energy, and yellows hope and happiness, powerful reds, and renewing greens, you cannot help to reflect on your own energy, happiness, and growth from the year so far.  It’s a time when individuals and businesses alike reflect on their successes and challenges from the year and begin plans for the year to come.  We can acknowledge the stressful moments like year-end for businesses and tax season is approaching, but don’t overlook this beautiful season with so much to offer!

  5. Family time.  Fall is often filled with family gatherings.  Halloween and Thanksgiving are fun times for festivities and traditions, which means times filled with stories, hugs, and laughter – all, shall we say, “soothing to the soul.” 


What are the Top 5 things you look forward to in the fall?  Take some time to enjoy this fall season with us during Devin’s DashFIT Week, Recipe for Success:  Holiday Cooking Healthy workshop, or Reunion Week! 

Here are a few pictures from last year's fall festivities:


[caption id="attachment_3661" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="Reunion Week 2009 - Getting into the 70's theme with a little tie-dye"]Reunion Week 2009 - Getting into the 70's theme with a little tie-dye[/caption]




[caption id="attachment_3662" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="Finished product - doesn't it look great!"]Finished product - doesn't it look great![/caption]




[caption id="attachment_3664" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="Reunion Week 2009 - Disco Night!"]Reunion Week 2009 - Disco Night![/caption]


Saturday, September 25, 2010

Protect Your Health with Prevention

As many of have probably heard by now, we recently lost a colleague and dear friend Devin Schaeffer.  Unfortunately, Devin developed a fairly rare form of intestinal cancer for which there are no effective screening tests, and by the time it was diagnosed it could not be successfully treated.  Fortunately, there are effective screening tests for several of the most common and deadly cancers.  However, many people are unaware of the guidelines, or ignore them.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, while screening rates have improved, millions are not getting the tests and as a result, thousands are dying needlessly.  For example 7 million American women who should have had a mammogram, have gone without it, and 22 million Americans who should have undergone colon cancer screening have not done so.  Even healthy, famous doctors are not immune to the risks of cancer.  Dr. Oz recently decided to get a colonoscopy.  Not because he felt he was at risk and needed one, but because he had just turned 50 and meeting the criteria for screening, he thought he should be a good role model and practice what he preaches.  No one was more surprised than him when he was informed that he a precancerous polyp.  Fortunately it was removed then and there during the colonoscopy.  Dr Oz admitted that had he not been such a public figure he may have waited several years before getting screened and by that time he may have developed a life threatening case of colon cancer.  Please review the following guidelines published by the American Cancer Society and if you meet the criteria for screening for any of the cancers listed - call your doctor TODAY.

One way to honor those who have passed away is to do something they would be proud of; I know Devin would be proud to know that he may have helped motivate you to take positive steps to preserve and improve your health.  Another way to honor Devin is to participate in the first annual Devin’s Dash Memorial 5k Race on October 16th.  I know that most of will not be able to come to Hilton Head and actually run or walk the actual course, but how about doing your own 5K that morning.  Hop in your car and chart out a 3.1 mile course and walk or jog it the 16th.  The race starts at 8:00am.  Join us in spirit and effort even if you can’t actually be here.  Donations are being accepted in his honor and will go directly to the American Cancer Society. You may register for the race and donate here.