Florida Weekly

Household chemicals linked to lowered response to childhood vaccinations

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 04:51:55 +0000

SPECIAL TO FLORIDA WEEKLY

A new study finds that perfluorinated compounds or PFCs, widely used in manufactured products such as nonstick cookware, waterproof clothing and fast-food packaging, were associated with lowered immune response to vaccinations in children.

Learn about heart valve replacement without surgery

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 04:51:55 +0000

A new treatment that eliminates the need for open-heart surgery and offers an option for patients with inoperable aortic stenosis now is available in Fort Myers.

Healthy diet doesn’t have to mean going vegetarian whole-hog

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 04:51:56 +0000

BY JL WATSON

Special to Florida Weekly

As a nationally ranked Powerlifter, Joann Andrews relies on her muscles to help her succeed. She also counts on a diet rich in fruits and vegetables to help her achieve a lean look and to lift heavy weights.

Her secret: a mostly vegetarian diet.

“I’m not entirely vegetarian, but there are whole weeks where I don’t eat meat,” Ms. Andrews says.

Help heal Florida’s health care

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 04:51:57 +0000

jimNATHAN

President, Lee Memorial Health System

Shawn and Courtney Long are the parents of 3-year-old Cody. Born with a rare congenital heart defect, Cody has undergone three surgeries and requires a feeding tube and a variety of medications. With Shawn and Courtney both working full-time, and with all of Cody’s special medical needs, they knew they needed help beyond what a typical day care center can provide.