Author Archives: dzadmin

05.30.17
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Vanessa Puleo of Led2Serve Announces Outreach Partnership with Basket Brigade Central Florida

vanessa puelo

vanessa pueloORLANDO, FL (PRWEB) MAY 26, 2017

Led2Serve, a Florida based non-profit organization, is pleased to announce a partnership with Basket Brigade Central Florida to lead the administration, planning and logistical execution of its yearly Thanksgiving food drive. Now in their 20th year, Basket Brigade has led a community effort to deliver baskets full to the brim with love and their signature note which reads, “This is a gift from someone who cares about you, all we ask is you take good care of yourself, and do this for someone else…someday.” Last year nearly eighteen-hundred families in the Central Florida area received a tailor-made food basket delivered to their door.

“We started Basket Brigade twenty years ago with the notion that one small act of generosity on the part of one caring person can transform the lives of so many people. We’ve grown this annual event to feed thousands of families. This new partnership will help the local serve event in so many ways. We can also now offer corporate sponsors the opportunity to give back to the local community through tax-deductible donations for Thanksgiving meals. We can only imagine this partnership with Led2Serve will allow significantly more families to be helped each year as a result,” said Joetta Raylots, Founder and creator of Basket Brigade Central Florida. Raylots continues to say, “I would like to thank the Central Florida community for making a difference to families in need over the last two decades. Basket Brigade is a global initiative that started from hearing motivational speaker Tony Robbins speak twenty years ago”.

Led2Serve has mobilized thousands of individuals to join in serving events both locally and on a global scale. Supporting Basket Brigade will provide the capability of accepting tax-deductible donations from corporate and individual sponsors for continued expansion and growth of this yearly event.

“We couldn’t be happier,” says Vanessa Puleo, Founder and Executive Director of Led2Serve. “I’ve known Joetta Raylots for many years and know what a huge heart she has for helping others. We’re thrilled to facilitate the growth of this meaningful event and look to years ahead of giving back to the community together. Taking a vision like Basket Brigade of feeding families, linked with Led2Serve’s mission to serve others, we will accomplish amazing things in the Central Florida area.”

Raylots and Puleo are in the planning stages of how to take the foundational process and success of the Basket Brigade program and duplicate it across the USA.

This year’s Basket Brigade will be held on Saturday, November 18th where over 300 volunteers will gather for the event. The goal of feeding 2500 families is becoming a reality.

About Led2Serve:

Founded in 2009 by Vanessa Puleo, Led2Serve was created to equip, inspire, and mobilize individuals and teams to serve others locally, nationally, and in regions of Costa Rica. Led2Serve’s customized Journeys provide the opportunity for team members to give of their time and talents by taking part in meaningful community projects such as building a ramp for the disabled, painting a school, or participating in an environmental clean up effort. Their journey is balanced with fun activities such as zip-lining, hiking, snorkeling and white water rafting. Since Led2Serve is a 501(c)(3) organization, team members pay a tax-deductible journey fee to cover the cost of their travel. Led2Serve coordinates all aspects of travel, from food and lodging to project materials and transportation. Teams travel to the same locations throughout the year bringing groups from schools, churches, non-religious organizations, sports teams and corporations to support established community partners. Led2Serve also helps to create, implement, and oversee the logistical parts of one day service projects in communities across the USA.

05.10.17
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Vanessa Puleo of Led2Serve announces a joint partnership with Century 21 North Short Group

vanessa puelo

ORLANDO, FLORIDA (PRWEB) MAY 10, 2017

Led2Serve, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, announces an innovative new partnership with Century 21 North Shore Group, New England’s leading real estate brokerage firm. This new alliance blends traditional real estate services with intentional community outreach resulting in a substantial impact not only locally, but spanning across the USA and Costa Rica. This effort will engage, create and supply agents with amazing opportunities to support local projects and make a life-changing impact in communities whose basic educational and housing needs are not met.

For decades, Century 21 NS Group has prided itself on giving buyers and sellers the highest level of service in the home buying and selling experience. Now, they have taken on a cutting edge role by providing customized service projects within those local communities. “We’re excited to give back to our local markets through purposeful service projects that will positively impact those in need. For us it’s not just about business, it’s also about making a real difference,” shared Jim D’Amico, President of Century 21 North Shore Group.

Century 21 North Shore Group has committed to donating a percentage of every real estate transaction to Led2Serve to support their current and future service projects. Led2Serve will lead their program facilitating the development, coordination, and implementation of local and global projects with a focus on the environment, education and housing.

“When a company is committed to devoting a percentage of it’s profits toward the benefit of others, the impact on housing, education and the environment is astounding. Significant, good things happen when you take two great ideas and put them to work for one outstanding cause,” stated Vanessa Puleo, Founder/Executive Director of Led2Serve. “Partnering with such a forward-thinking organization will enable us to send more teams, make more community impact, and continue the development of longterm service projects.”

Starting later this year, Century 21 North Shore agents, friends and family members will have the opportunity to travel on Service Journeys with Led2Serve to various parts of the United States and Costa Rica. They will utilize Led2Serve’s established business model which combines serving others with fun and adventure.

About Century 21 North Shore Group:

Century 21 North Shore Group was established in 1994 and is currently one of the fastest growing real estate companies in the United States. The Company was founded by James D’Amico III who continues to manage the operations with over 20 staffers and 600 agents. The Company currently ranks as one of the Top 10 Century 21 firms in the United States and Top 21 in the world. Century 21 North Shore Group also holds a position in the Power 500 through RealTrends.

About Led2Serve:

Founded in 2009 by Vanessa Puleo, Led2Serve was created to equip, inspire, and mobilize individuals and teams to serve others locally, nationally, and in regions of Costa Rica. Led2Serve’s customized Journeys provide the opportunity for team members to give of their time and talents by taking part in meaningful community projects such as building a ramp for the disabled, painting a school, or participating in an environmental clean up effort. Their journey is balanced with fun activities such as zip-lining, hiking, snorkeling and white water rafting. Since Led2Serve is a 501(c)(3) organization, team members pay a tax-deductible journey fee to cover the cost of their travel. Led2Serve coordinates all aspects of travel, from food and lodging to project materials and transportation. Teams travel to the same locations throughout the year bringing groups from schools, churches, non-religious organizations, sports teams and corporations to support established community partners.

For more information contact:

Jim D’Amico
CEO/President
Century 21 North Shore/NS Group
617-680-3464

Vanessa Puleo
Founder/Executive Director
http://www.led2serve.org
407-227-2695

05.04.17
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Varicose Veins & Obesity

Varicose Veins


Could being overweight contribute to venous issues and deficiency leading to varicose veins? Yes.

Why?

The heavier you are, the greater the pressure put on your body, veins and circulatory system included. Over time, the large leg veins will start to bulge causing blood to pool. The pooling can stretch the vein walls and damage the valves. This may start off feeling like a slightly itchy feeling and move on to leg heaviness, aching, swelling and pain. Restless legs at night and cramps may also be experienced.

Varicose veins can also develop due to genetics, hormone fluctuations from pregnancy or birth control, medications, ageing, blood clots or sitting or standing for extended repeated periods of time.

Is it too late?

It is never too late to take steps to get yourself going on the road to better health. Losing weight can prevent already existing varicose veins from worsening and new ones from forming. It cannot, however, reverse the current already appearing varicose veins.

The Key is prevention

  • Balanced diet and exercise are vital
  • Massage
  • Elevating your legs daily
  • Wearing compression hose

Varicose veins already forming?

If varicose or spider veins are already present come see us at The West Florida Vein Center. There is no reason to live with the pain and unsightliness damaged veins present. We will screen you thoroughly and present you with the best course of treatment options available. Our Vein Specialists are the best in the industry.

For more information on vein issues please contact West Florida Vein Center, Tampa’s leading vein treatment center, for a consultation. They can be reached by calling 727-712-3233 or going to www.westfloridaveincenter.com

05.03.17
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Don’t use Google as your medical advisor

google

When you don’t feel well, what is your first instinct these days? If you are like the majority of Americans and many others worldwide you now jump onto your smartphone, tablet or computer and start Google searching by symptom.

The search results come back to you via keyword only. You end up with a mishmash of garbled information which may or may not be factual.  Many health articles online are written by those with zero medical backgrounds.

In some cases what you turn up may give you validation and peace of mind along with some ideas of where to begin on self-care as well as starting point in finding a qualified physician for more serious health matters.

When the symptom you search comes back with numerous possibilities, it gets confusing. Many possible health problems are tough to understand without a solid background in western medicine. Clicking randomly on found possibilities may indicate very serious health problems, even flashing pop-ups at you that you may need immediate emergency care, often despite you not even being done entering your list of issues.

These pop-up warning signals are often unwarranted increasing your level of worry and anxiety, even possibly making your situation worse.

It becomes very easy to jump to conclusions and create terrible outcomes in your mind which very likely are not even plausible with a little more background and research.

While running to the emergency room may be the recommendation on WebMD and Symptom Checker for many issues, the ER specializes in emergency medicine only. There is a time and a place for the ER. They are there to stabilize you, save your life if necessary and send you on to the appropriate doctor afterwards. If you are experiencing possibly life-threatening symptoms, by all means, do not hesitate to go in.

Though Chiropractic care is often thought of as “just for back and neck issues” the truth is that Chiropractic is a full body care all-inclusive practice, especially when combined with Nutritional Response Testing and Therapy. While modern Western Medicine focuses on curing the symptoms or at least covering them, these modalities (still thought of as Alternative Medicine) work to find and heal the root cause so that the patient is truly cured.

If you are experiencing ongoing or even sudden onset health issues that you are unable to resolve on your own, or by going the traditional medical route, we would love to talk to you. Come in for a FREE consultation and see what we have to offer.

The combination of proper diet, personalized supplementation and correct alignment can make a night and day difference between sickness and health. Give Nutrition Specialists of Florida | Chiropractor Bonita Springs a call 239-947-1177 or visit www.chiropractorbonitasprings.com

05.03.17
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Yearly Wellness Exam

wellness exam

Have you had your annual wellness exam yet this year? Surprisingly, many people overlook and bypass going despite the fact that it is covered 100% by most insurance policies. This quick checkup can help to maintain your health year after year as you age. It only takes an hour or less and can give you peace of mind.

The exam starts by taking a personal Health Risk Assessment. This includes health history, family health history, and physical exam. Your doctor will take note of any physical complaints you currently have as well. The family history can be important in diagnosing symptoms as some conditions and diseases are genetic and hereditary. It is important to bring a list of all medications and supplements with you for a completely accurate outcome.

Glucose and cholesterol levels are measured by doing bloodwork. Fasting, drinking water only, for 8 hours’ prior is usually assigned before your appointment.

They will then examine your eyes, mouth, ears, nose and skin. Your doctor will check vitals such as blood pressure, pulse, oxygen level, and heart rate. Height and weight will be taken to determine your BMI (body mass index) making sure you are in the normal range making suggestions for best health.

Age appropriate screenings may be included: For younger sexually active patient’s STD screenings may be offered as well if deemed necessary. Breast exams, as well as prostate check, may also be included, though full exams should be done by your gynaecologist and proctologist respectively.

Opening up the patient-doctor dialogue is vital during not only your wellness exam but during any visit. Choosing a doctor, you are comfortable talking to can make a difference in your overall health care. Honesty in answers and feeling free to ask questions makes it easier for the doctor to get a full health picture and give you answers based on fact. It enables them to give you the very best personalized recommendations.

If you are looking for a physician in Lee County, Florida please visit www.ipalc.org/find to find a doctor near you.

 

04.06.17
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Vanessa Puleo of Led2Serve Announces The Launch Of Their Service Learning Journeys in the Washington DC Area

Vanessa Puelo

Vanessa PueloWe’re pleased to announce Led2Serve’s first service learning journey was completed in Washington, DC in late March. Led2Serve traveled with a team of twenty-two from St. John’s Military school in Salina, Kansas. This team joined an impactful service learning mission where students learned about our nation’s great history and were able to make a positive difference in the lives of others with service projects coordinated by Capital Area Food Bank and SOME (So Others Might Eat) non-profit organizations.

Led2Serve organized all details for the Journey Team which included the team touring the Capitol Building followed by a solemn visit to the Arlington Cemetery to witness the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. This journey team also visited numerous monuments throughout the city, including the Vietnam Memorial Wall. The week’s adventures were capped with a tour of the breathtaking National Cathedral where students learned of the extensive history behind the building of the church and how it serves as a cornerstone of religious diversity in our country.

led2serve

Moving into the service component of the journey all team members spent time serving through Led2Serve’s partnership with the Capital Area Food Bank, the largest organization in the Washington metro area combating hunger for 540,000 people each year and its companion problems: chronic undernutrition, heart disease, and obesity. For their second serve project, the journey members served with So Others Might Eat, an interfaith, community-based organization that helps the poor and homeless of the nation’s capital. SOME help to break the cycle of homelessness by offering services, such as affordable housing, job training, addiction treatment, and counseling, to the poor, the elderly and individuals with mental illness.

Vanessa Puleo, Founder and Executive Director of Led2Serve stated “As part of Led2Serve’s community serving component we regularly travel to established partnership locations many times a year, to forge impactful and lasting relationships that will benefit individuals within those communities. We’re very pleased to have these new partnerships with the Capital Area Food Bank and So Others Might Eat who have such a positive role in the Washington DC area.” Puleo continues to say, “Service-Learning Journeys are a way to engage in educational travel linked with a learning outcome and meaningful service to support those opportunities. High-school and college teams can teach their classes while we travel and serve throughout DC”.

led2serve

About Led2Serve:

Founded by Vanessa Puleo in 2009, led2serve was created to equip, inspire, and mobilize individuals and teams to serve others locally, nationally, and through many regions of Costa Rica. led2serve’s customized Journeys provide the opportunity for team members to give their time and talents by taking part in meaningful community projects such as building a ramp for the disabled, painting a school, or participating in an environmental cleanup effort. Their hard work is then balanced by taking part in activities such as zip-lining, snorkeling, white water rafting and other fun activities. Team members typically pay a Journey fee to cover the cost of their travel, which is tax deductible, as they are a 501(c)(3) organization. Team members can fundraise for their trips if they choose.

Led2Serve coordinates all aspects of travel, from food and lodging, to project materials. They travel and serve primarily in the Eastern United States and throughout five regions of Costa Rica. Led2Serve teams travel repeatedly to the same locations and serve with established community partners year round bringing groups from schools, churches, non-religious organizations, sports teams, family and friend groups, sports teams, and more.

Contact Information:
Vanessa Puleo
Founder/Executive Director
vanessa@led2serve.org

04.05.17
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Want Vein Treatment but not sure insurance will cover it?

Many patients are reluctant to go see physicians, especially Vein Specialists, because of the fear of cost. It is automatically assumed by most that this is a vanity treatment and there is no way insurance would foot the bill. This is not always the case. In fact, this is not the case most of the time. Depending on the severity of your venous insufficiency your treatment, so long as not considered simply cosmetic will likely be covered.

While it’s true that spider veins generally are not covered, varicose veins are almost always considered a medical necessity. 

If the veins on your legs have enlarged bulging veins that appear purplish or blue in color and your legs feel heavy, painful, itchy, or swollen it is guaranteed that you are experiencing venous insufficiency.

Treatments for varicose veins have advanced throughout the years and are now outpatient procedures that generally take about an hour or so (though multiple sessions may be needed in certain cases). There is no need to live in pain. 

An ultrasound of the veins can be done in the office to show which veins have become defective, to demonstrate medical necessity and to plan treatment. All insurance plans require a venous ultrasound before they will approve treatment of varicose veins. Vein treatments can then be scheduled. To begin the process give us a call and set up an appointment for a vein screening. 

If you have further questions or are experiencing symptoms that you would like to have addressed, we invite you to give us a call today at 727-712-3233 and Let The West Florida Vein Center Vein Specialists help. Call for a consultation. www.westfloridaveincenter.com

04.05.17
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The truth about Salt

Including salt in your diet, for the average person, is just fine. We need sodium to be able to function properly. Moderation is key. Too much or too little can have negative effects.

What is salt’s role in our health?

Salt helps to maintain the electrical charge in cells It also distributes fluids. The nervous system requires it to function. Dietary salt also helps promote proper muscle function and movement.  In the intestines, sodium helps the body absorb chloride, amino acids,

It can also promote proper muscle function and movement.

On average you only need to replace about 2,000 milligrams of sodium each day.

The American Heart Association reports the average American takes in around 3,436 milligrams per day – far more than needed, which can lead to issues over time.

Too Much Salt:

  • Possibility of raised blood pressure
  • Brain tells you that your thirsty because of the increased salt in the body.
  • Kidneys try to rid the body of excess salt through urine.
  • Elevated blood pressure from too much salt can lead to an enlarged heart.
  • Extra pressure on the heart because of the presence of excess water in the blood.
  • Water retention and bloating.

Too Little Sodium

  • Nausea, vomiting, upset stomach.
  • Loss of proper muscle control.
  • Muscle weakness.
  • Disorientation, seizures, brain damage.
  • Headache.
  • Cerebral edema (brain swelling).

Track your daily sodium by following serving information on food labels which also list the amount of sodium per serving.

If you’re experiencing any symptoms consult a doctor to determine what the cause could be. Dr. Kordonowy of Internal Medicine, Lipid, & Wellness in Fort Myers can give you a dietary assessment and determine what amount of dietary salt you should be ingesting. To book an appointment with Dr. Kordonowy, click here or call 239-362-3006, ext. 200. Or to find a doctor in your area visit www.ipalc.org/find.

04.05.17
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How Important is Collagen?

As we age, collagen levels drop. This can cause a wide array of noticable issues.

Collagen is a part of our bones, skin, muscles, blood vessels, tendons, and digestion. It gives us flexibility and holds us together.

•Wrinkles

•Lose skin

•Cellulite

•Aches and pains

•Loss of flexibility

•Stretch marks

•Digestion issues

•Slowed metabolism

•Less energy

Supplementation may need to be considered.

It may help in the following ways:

•Stronger teeth and nails

•Improved skin and hair

•Supports the repair of joints

•Can help with leaky gut

•Boost in metabolism

•Reduces stretch marks and cellulite

•Helps to detox the body and improve liver health

•Helps to protect cardiovascular health

•Lessening of arthritic symptoms

•Immune system booster

•Bone regeneration and healing

•Wound healing

•Antibacterial properties

Collagen is a complex protein. It is made up of 19 different amino acids both essential and non-essential.

Natural Sources of Collagen:

•Bovine

•Chicken

•Fish

•Eggshell membrane

Be aware of things that deplete your collagen.

•Excess sun exposure

•Alcohol in excess

•Eating a lot of sugar

•Smoking

•Drugs – prescription or otherwise

Collagen can be obtained through food sources or through supplements.

Keeping collagen levels high can help minimize the aging process in the way that it impacts us and how we feel in our bodies. 

To learn more about nutrition and get a customized health plan tailored to your body visit Nutrition Specialists of Florida by going to www.chiropractorbonitasprings.com or calling 239-947-1177.

03.27.17
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Ways to Help Treats Upper Respiratory Illness Symptoms

Spring has sprung but that doesn’t mean we’re out of the woods just yet when it comes to cold and flu season. Upper respiratory illnesses (URI) are common in the early spring, just like the fall and winter seasons. The upper respiratory system includes the mouth, nose, sinuses, larynx, throat, and trachea. Unfortunately, many of the these URIs are viral and cannot be treated by antibiotics. These infections are not usually treated with antibiotics unless there is proof of a bacterial infection.

The common cold is a URI and a viral illness. Symptoms can include: a stuffy nose, muscle aches, sneezing, a sore throat, post-nasal drip, cough, and a mild fever (under 101.5). A cold can last anywhere from 3 to 14 days. If you’re illness is lasting at least 10 days with no improvement, you should schedule an appointment for an evaluation with the doctor.  Also, if you are experiencing a high fever, shortness of breath, wheezing, confusion, chest pain, teeth-chattering chills, or rib pain, you should make an appointment to see the doctor as soon as possible. At my office, our nursing staff can triage patients quickly with the above-mentioned issues. We can test for influenza (the flu) and low oxygen levels to check for more serious illnesses beyond a cold or allergy. We can also test for strep throat in our office quickly through a swab test.

Since viral infections cannot be treated with antibiotics, there are many remedies a person can do to lessen the symptoms and duration of his or her URI. Below, I’ve shared a few things that can be used when suffering from a URI.

  1. Vitamin C – When taken at a high dosage (1000mg 3 times a day), vitamin C has been known to shorten the duration of a cold.
  2. Zinc gluconate (Coldeez brand) – Take 5 to 6 lozenges per day every two hours. The high level of zinc gluconate (13.3 mg) improves symptoms and shortens duration of illness.
  3. Antihistamines (Zyrtec, Claritin, Alavert, Loratidine, Tavist,) can help with coughs and drying secretions.
  4. Vicks menthol rub can help breathing and provide relieve at night when applied to the chest, throat, and upper lip.
  5. Nasal saline can help flush out nostrils.
  6. Ibuprofen and other anti-inflammation medication can reduce a fever, headaches, and muscle aches. If you are on blood thinners or anti-platelet therapy, use acetaminophen instead of Iburprofen or asprin. If you are allergic to NSAIDS, avoid Ibuprofen, Aleve, or aspirin.

Below,  I’ve shared are a few links to medicinal products I offer and approve  on my website to help ease URI symptoms.

Sinus Relief Products

Cold and Cough Products

Pain Relievers

Allergy Medication

If you’re experience a long-lasting cold, flu-like or strep throat symptoms, give me, Dr. Kordonowy of Internal Medicine, Lipids & Wellness of Fort Myers, and my team a call today at 239-362-3005, ext. 200 or click here to contact us to schedule an appointment today.