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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: Kid-approved summer snacks with blueberries

WE HAVE A PROBLEM. Too many of our children are overweight or obese. And that can lead to type 2 diabetes. The reasons are easy to figure out. Just look at the youngsters and compare what they are doing now with what kids did in the 1950s, ’60s, and ’70s.
Hospice Help: Wake up, guys! It’s Men’s Health Month

LET’S FACE IT, as men, we find time for a round of golf, making a run to a home improvement store, or spending a Sunday afternoon with our family. But taking care of our health? It ranks low on the list of priorities. This year marks the 21st anniversary of when President Bill Clinton declared…
PCMA Letter: A look at men’s health and a save-the-date item

EVERY JUNE, Men’s Health Month is emphasized across the country with screenings, health fairs, and educational events. These efforts are to help ensure that every male, from boyhood to retirement years, is enlightened about some of the health risks that affect more men than women. Some of these health risks are life-threatening dangers, but the…