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Tackling Mental Health Together

Establishing the West Central Florida Mental Wellness Coalition Recognizing the record number of suicide rates, substance use and opioid deaths, nearly 30 local organizations have joined forces to develop a regional mental health initiative. On June 20, BayCare CEO and President Tommy Inzina and participating leaders from other hospitals, behavioral health providers, law enforcement, government…
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…

Healthy Cook: Love a food that loves you back

BUGGS BUNNY had it right. He ate carrots because he liked them. But even if he hated carrots and liked, oh … parsnips, or Brussels sprouts … he should have chomped on the long orange sticks anyway because they are healthy.
Pediatric Health: How sick is too sick for school?

With flu season in full swing, it can be hard to know if your child is too sick for school or just feeling slightly under the weather. Oftentimes, it can be tricky to decide whether your child should stay home or is well enough to attend school.
Hospice Help: Caring for ailing hearts

DO YOU OR A LOVED ONE find it increasingly more difficult to breathe? Ever have tightness or pain in your chest for more than 15 minutes? Are your feet, ankles or abdomen swelling? Or, are you worried about the fact that you have rapidly gained three to five pounds in a day, while also fighting…