Health News

Features

Working Like a Dog

Reading with Bonnie the Therapy Dog by RACHEL CHRISTIAN Cassandra Banning and Bonnie, her 10-year-old shih tzu therapy dog, have been bringing joy and happiness to people in the Plant City area for almost six years. The pair can be spotted across town visiting nursing homes, hospitals, and even Bruton Memorial Library. Unlike service animals…
Taking Action

State Mandate Calls for Mental Health Education in Florida Schools by MARY TOOTHMAN The State Board of Education has voted to approve a new mandate that calls for specific mental health lessons to be given to students in grades six through 12. The focus will be on awareness, prevention, and reducing stigma. At least…
Pop Quiz: Facts and Stats about Glaucoma

1.) Which of the following defines glaucoma? A medical condition in which the lens of the eye becomes progressively opaque, resulting in blurred vision. A complex disease in which damage to the optic nerve leads to progressive, irreversible vision loss. The inability to perceive differences in various shades of colors. The loss of vision after…

Healthy Aging

While aging is a fact of life that one cannot escape, there are certain measures that can be taken to ensure the best possible vision as you age. The following lifestyle modifications can help delay or prevent certain eye diseases. Regular Eye Examinations One of the most important things you can do is schedule yearly…
Getting Back Your Smile

Your smile is one of the first things people notice when they see you and can impact people’s first impressions of you. Studies show that one-third of American adults are unhappy with their smile and believe having better teeth would improve their social and romantic lives. Fortunately, there are ways you can get that smile…
Health Hero

Local Firefighter Named EMT of the Year After Heroic Actions by TERESA SCHIFFER Superheroes don’t get days off! In August of 2017, Haines City firefighter Brenn Hines had an experience that his training had prepared him for. While visiting Ana Maria Island with his girlfriend and soaking in the sun and the sea, Hines heard…