Feel Good. Eat Good. Prevent Cancer.

Fall is here along with some cooler weather which makes me think of gumbo. Being from Oklahoma, I have adapted to Louisiana very well… almost too well. Gumbo, crawfish, jambalaya... mmm my mouth is watering at the thought of it all.

Healing What Chemo Can't.

Working with children facing cancer has been one of the most humbling experiences of my entire life. Cancer is a diagnosis that affects not only the patient, but also their family members, friends, schools, and communities. Although the specific type of cancer and treatment plan may differ, for most families, the diagnosis initiates some of the same questions. Why us? Why my child? Why my family?

Stressed?

Stress is the need to make a difficult or undesirable change in order to adapt to events and situations in life. We all go through it at some point or another. Whether it’s financial worries, work-related troubles, tension with your partner or perhaps your children’s behavior at home; stress is a normal part of life. 

But stress isn’t always bad. It can relieve monotony, allow for goal-directed behavior and allow us to experience joy; however, when we experience too much stress, it can start to affect our health.

Child Life Specialists - Making a Difference

My name is Francesca Kizer, Child Life Specialist at Women's & Children's Hospital, and Child Life has been a part of my life since I was 14 years old, when I was treated for an abdominal tumor.  

The part of my hospitalization that I remember the most was when I worked with my Child Life Specialist.  She helped me to understand why I was there, gave me fun things to do, and prepared me for any procedures, while clarifying any misconceptions I had.  I knew from the day I left the hospital, that I would one day become certified and devote my time to helping other children and their families during their time at the hospital. 

What is OMT and how can it help me?

Osteopathic manipulative therapy or OMT is an advanced form of hands-on care.  It is usually performed by Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O. or osteopath) and is useful for easing pain, promoting healing, increasing mobility and treating asthma, sinus disorders, carpal tunnel syndrome, migraines, as well as muscle and back pains.  OMT can complement and in some instances even replace the need for medications and surgery.  It can be complementary to other forms of manipulation and alternative therapies as well.