Health News

Features

Risk Prediction

American Heart Association’s Updated Tool Is a Game-Changer by REBEKAH PIERCE What if you had a crystal ball — something that could predict future health problems and tell you what exactly to expect as you get older? With the updated Risk Prevention Tool from the American Heart Association, you may be able to do just…
From Broken Heart to Helping Heart

Culpepper’s Cardiac Foundation Making Defibrillators More Accessible in Winter Haven by K. MICHELE TRICE In the summer of 2020, Melanie Brown Culpepper found herself in a nightmare situation. She is now on a mission to help as many people as possible avoid a similar experience. Florida had just allowed businesses to reopen following the Covid-19…
Balancing Fitness & Fun

Cypress Gardens Ski Team Keeps Winter Haven Family Active story and photos by PAUL CATALA Daily activities for the Palomaki family started with baseball games and fishing, but it wasn’t long before the family was hooked on skiing. Now, the whole Palomaki family, along with the rest of the Cypress Gardens Ski Team, use ropes…

Lymphedema Swelling a Common Ailment

Lymphedema is swelling caused by obstruction or reflux in the lymphatic vessels and is one of the most common conditions affecting humans. The lymph vessels are long, thin-walled tubes that form a very intricate network in the arms and the legs. In some cases, these lymph vessels are absent or are damaged or destroyed, and…
Happiness Happens… in the Sun!

by COURTNEY BEAUMONT, OD Despite the recent rain, we residents of the Sunshine State still make time to enjoy the Florida sunshine. Nothing says happiness like a day at the lake with family and friends. But, while we all know that the sun can cause damage to our skin in the form of sunspots and…
The Importance of Wearing Sunglasses

by EDITH WEPPELMANN, OD Do you enjoy watersports, fishing, golfing, hiking outdoors, or going to the beach? Sunglasses are not only a fashion accessory. They keep you looking good by preventing wrinkles, and more importantly, they protect your eyes from the development of various diseases. Your shades work to protect your vision health and maximize…