Diary of a Doc: Dr JJ -- 1186 Days and Counting

First of all, I want to thank you all for your good wishes for DOD. He’s hanging in at home and gathering a little strength, day by day. As for the boy, he trekked to Chicago last weekend, riding shotgun with a librarian from Flint, for a national backgammon tournament. Backgammon shares a space in his heart with poker, but somehow the former seems more legitimate in mom’s mind (no seedy, smoky, sunglass-clad, shifty-eyed visuals in my brain). Having never set foot on the streets of “ChiTown” (except for his layovers in the airport), Max now understands why everyone LOVES Chicago (except in the deep of Winter). Here he was, kid from the BIG City, calling mom in absolute wonder at the gorgeous architecture, river through the City, admiring the vibrancy and beauty of this incredible jewel in the middle of the US! The tournament was held out in the ‘burbs, and Max quickly was humbled (and his scratched together entry fees and buy ins quickly gone) by the finesse and skill held by those many years senior to him. He didn’t mind being excluded early – as that gave him time to meet his heroes of this “sport,” garner some knowledge, and most importantly, stand back and realize that winning at this level requires years and years of practice, dedication, and, as he realized, many losses on the way to victory. His mind set zoomed from the fantasy of winning (as a young neophyte) to the reality of realizing that true dedication, humbling losses and resilient persistence are the qualities of someone who succeeds. I hope that he will apply this experience, and these lessons to his life on campus, and his life on this planet. I already started to see a hint of it when he was not hired as a campus tour guide (a plum paid position), and set about to try again in the fall (with no anger, angst, or assigning blame)……now let’s hope he finds a job this summer as he returns home April 29 for 3 months!

Baby Silk Honored with 2 Major Awards!

What a week we've had! We learned, in the span of 2 days, that our Baby Silk line was honored with not one, but TWO very exciting awards!
Our Babysafe Sunscreen Towelettes were honored last week with the prestigious NAPPA Gold Award (the National Parenting Publications Awards' highest honor) and our Soothing Bottom Relief Diaper Rash Cream and Gentle All-Over Clean Cleansing Towelettes each won a PTPA (Parent Tested Parent Approved) Award!
Having one product recognized like this is an honor...but three? Wow. Just wow!
The NAPPA seal is one that is recognized by parents everywhere and is a great mark of credibility for consumers and retailers alike.
The PTPA award is exciting because it was bestowed upon us by parents themselves. What more could we ask for?
So THANK YOU NAPPA...THANK YOU PTPA...and most especially, THANK YOU parents. It is for you and your kids that we do what we do, both as pediatricians and as the makers of Baby Silk. We are honored to have become a part of your lives!

Diary of a Doc: Dr. JJ -- 1212 Days and Counting

Well, where have the last several weeks gone?? Real life has stepped in the way of late -- as plans for a week away took a hairpin turn back to Los Angeles! My father-in-law was admitted to the ICU at Cedars, and by last Sunday, we seriously thought we were going to lose him. That said, for Max it was an automatic decision to return home instead of trying to feign enjoyment in NYC while grandpa (or DOD, Dear Old Dad, as we call him) was fighting for every breath. So Max (and his friend Lorin) returned home Tuesday, immediately sailing into DOD's room, and actually finding him a bit improved (as he had made no progress for 9 days prior). As the other grandkids gathered 'round as well, I think DOD decided he couldn't throw in the towel, and started to fight all week -- inspired by the young who sat at his side daily. I think Max (and Bruce and I) heard more funny (and secret) stories from Grandpa this week than we had heard in the last 20 years. It was as if he had unlocked more of his legacy and made sure it was verbally given to the kids. What a great gift! Although an emotionally draining few weeks, Max and Lorin left yesterday knowing that DOD was being transferred to a regular room, and against all odds would make it home.
As the kids' adventure got derailed, we made sure (with the kindness and generosity of friends) that they returned to Michigan with a few memories -- innumerable rides on The Simpson's at Universal Studios (thanks Janice!), a Laker's game (thanks Rex & Val!), and a day on the firing range in Tujunga (where Lorin looked like Annie Oakley, and shot more like a pro than a novice). The kids helped Bruce and I refocus and settle down, as initially every phone ring made us both jump, thinking we were going to hear the worst.
The kids returned to a HUGE storm just in time, and today we return to a regular life -- with its completely unexpected twists and turns...
We are grateful to all those who have returned DOD to us, and thank our friends and family for all their support and love.

Diary of a Doc: Dr. JJ -- 1240 Days & Counting

Our intrepid Max, fully outfitted in khaki green Northface expedition parka and LL Bean subzero boots continues to love the freezing cold, ice storms, snow and subzero temperatures that define the heart of winter in Michigan. Spring break for the Wolverines comes the third week of February -- as the kids are likely to be in the depths of seasonal affective disorder, dreading short days and long nights, and tired of the daily slog through snow drifts to get to class, the prospect of a little fun for a week keeps them warm with hope.
Max's first inclination was to return home for some R&R. However, knowing that we would force him out on the trail of identifying employment for summer dashed his dreams of sleeping in, eating trays of food lovingly prepared by mom, and the prospect of doing nothing. Skip to Plan B -- a trip to Mount Rushmore, by bus, enduring 36 hours in a smelly seat with perfect strangers. Good enough? NO! Skip to Plan C -- a quick trip to New York to visit the United Nations, see a Broadway show, take in the Museums before they are impassable in the Spring, a return to Ellis Island to caress the inscribed names of his great grandparents -- you bet! With the kind offer of a friend to stay in her apartment while there, Max will trek to the bigger city to take inn a little culture, a lot of history, and while not really having a chance to defrost, enjoy the vibrancy that is Manhattan.
It will be a little late to see Conan, but no less thrilling.
So what does Mom do? Put away the trays (ready to be laden with home cooked food), forget about fluffing up the pillows, put herself back in the office to work, and mope a bit...all part of the necessary process of emancipation and detachment that both parent and young people experience at this stage of life! So much of the college experience comes from not what is conveyed in the classroom, but rather the coping, resourcefulness and creativity that comes from striking out on one's own, problem solving, living within a budget and surging forward steadily into real adulthood.
Yeah, I'm moping a bit, but inside, I am totally proud!

Health & Safety Tip: Are you keeping your New Year's Stay-Healthy Resolutions?

Well, we're 22 days in to the New Year and it's awe-inspiring to think how much change we've all been surrounded by of late! With all this excitement, it's sometimes easy to forget the promises we made to ourselves at the top of the year, so we thought we'd check in and see how your progress is going on your New Year's resolutions. We know how difficult it is to keep them, however well-intended they may be. So we're sharing our favorite stay-healthy resolutions that are actually easy to keep (and easy to pick up again any time of year)!

1. "I resolve to use sunsreen on my family every day."
   We know, we know..."But it's January! And we're not at the beach!" Believe it or not, harmful UV rays don't just make their appearance Memorial Day through Labor Day. Exposure to UV rays adds up all year round. The most effective way to prevent skin cancer (aside from staying out of the sun) is to use sunscreen 365 days a year. Our favorite (though we know we're biased) is the Babysafe Sunscreen Towelettes SPF 30+. These indispensable sunscreen wipes are so easy to pop in the pocket of your winter coat and have a perfect amount of sunscreen to cover any exposed areas like face, ears & back of the hands -- any time of year.
   
   
2. "I resolve to wash my hands...a lot!"
   In our pediatric practices we are constantly bombarded with nasty germs, yet we rarely get sick. Our most tried & trued stay-healthy secret is surprisingly simple: We wash our hands constantly! Hand washing is the most effective (and easiest) way to prevent the spread of germs that cause colds, the flu, and several gastrointestinal disorders. Help your kids get in the habit early by teaching by example. Make it fun and lather up to a rousing rendition of the ABCs! If you don't have soap and water handy, go ahead and use a great multipurpose alcohol-free wipe or all-natural hand sanitizer.
   
   
3. "I resolve to adhere to the 30-second rule."
   Did you know the most effective way to maintain your and your baby's precious moisture barrier is to smooth on a moisture balm within about 30 seconds of patting dry? We like to call it the "30-second rule", and it's one of our favorite techniques to recommend to parents of children with eczema and dryness. Especially as the temperature continues to drop and winter dryness threatens even normally supple skin, we suggest at least a once-daily dose of moisture balm. A note to parents of children with very dry skin or eczema: One key to successfully treating these conditions is REPEATED application throughout the day.
   
   
4. "I resolve to up the antioxidant ante."
   Antioxidants protect us (and our babies) on the inside and out, aiding in skin repair and strengthening blood vessels. Blueberries are our top "superfood" choice for little ones (they're packed with antioxidants, phytoflavinoids, Vitamin C and potassium!) and a recent British study even showed that an antioxidant-rich Mediterranean diet may even prevent allergic rhinitis and asthma symptoms in youngsters. When it comes to the outside, be sure to look for antioxidants like Vitamin E, Avocado Oil, Grapeseed Extract and Olive Squalane to protect baby's uniquely delicate skin from environment damage.

These resolutions we know we can keep... Now if only somebody would make it easier for us to stop eating chocolate and start jogging!

Diary of a Doc: Dr. JJ

A year and a half ago, I started to blog about my son in my practice newsletter - counting down the 400 days he had at home until his graduation from High School. Was he ready to go forth into the big world of college? Had we given him the right tools?
He successfully completed his journey and started as a freshman at the University of Michigan in September. Yet another countdown started, as I blog about his progress in college, our progress as empty nesters, and reflections of the life he faces currently. Enjoy as we pick up on this week's entry, and check back every Friday as we update our countdown...

1257 Days and Counting...

Brrrrr.....it's cold in Ann Arbor - freezing temps are hitting the entire Midwest and Northeast. From the comfort of our tropical climate, we shudder at the thought of even a 40 degree morning in LA - and yet thousands of our kids trudge bravely through several feet of snow, ice and slush to go to class, grab a hot chocolate, nourish in the dining hall, or just go to work! Max related that the other night, in the midst of an almost-blizzard, the fire alarms went off in his dorm, the kids trudged downward and outside, dreading the cold, and beleagured at the hour. What did they face at the front door - an army of energetic colleagues from the dorm across the way - and a pile of thousands of pre-made snowballs at the ready! The battle was on, the freezing temps didn't matter, as the proud warriors engaged in a contest that none of us could or would survive at our age. This is just one example of how our perspective changes with youth. Seriously, aside from a brief weather report from Max, I have not heard ONE complaint from him about the cold. His daily description is "It's so beautiful mom", and "thanks for the great coat and boots - 'cause I'm not cold."....and here I am this week, dreading a trip to NY, Boston and Providence next Friday - imagining that upon leaving the safe confines of a warm airport terminal, that I will IMMEDIATELY turn into a human popsicle and never recover! Of course the very mention of my anxiety arouses huge guffaws from my son, and a reminder from him that I have a little natural insulation to help me through such ordeals - oy!

The kids are gearing up for a celebration of hope on Tuesday as the inauguration and its' personal significance to Max and his friends is truly huge. I hope that we all stop and pause on Tuesday and realize the signficance of this very day. Think about the millions who will happily stand in the cold, ice, and snow to witness history, to revere freedom, and to support our country and its new president. Take the opportunity to share this event with your children, as it will generate such a variety of discussion points - both from the past and present. Whatever your politics, it is incumbent upon all of us to link together in mutual support in order to survive these tough economic and political times...

Have a great week - and enjoy this historic moment!

It’s that time of year, the holidays are upon us, and travel reaches a fever pitch at the end of November. Here are a few tried and true tips for safe and sane travel with your young ones:

Stay healthy on the go! Before you travel, make sure your children’s vaccinations are up to date, including flu vaccine (have your pediatrician guide you) – especially since nothing stops people from traveling to loved ones during the holidays – not even colds or flu!

Arrive early at the airport. If it is naptime, find a quiet corner for your child to nap while awaiting your flight. A rested child is a better traveler.

Always pack comfort items for your baby or tot . A lovey, pacifier or blanket are essential. For older children - a couple of favorite books, a favorite packable toy or a stuffed fuzzy friend are always a welcome companion.

Remember to also pack some light snacks for your tots or older children. Babies will do well with nursing or sucking on a bottle during take offs and landings as this will reduce discomfort associated with middle ear pressure changes.

Sample-size your routine! Current regulations permit a maximum size of 3oz bottles of creams, lotions, or gels as carry-on items. Baby Silk...To Go! is a perfect carry-on choice: 1oz tubes containing diaper rash cream and liquid powder, together with 2oz bottles containing hair &body wash and moisture balm are TSA-approved for carry-ons and make for an easy pass through at the security gate. (Don’t forget to also bring your Babysafe Sunscreen Towelettes!) We suggest you check www.tsa.gov the day prior to departure for the most updated security information, to avoid unnecessary delays at the security checkpoint.

Children like to be comfortable traveling, too! Their softest PJs are better choices than their most fussy outfit! Save that for your destination. If you’re also traveling with a toddler, be sure to keep their shoes on when walking around a plane – unexpected injuries can be prevented.

If you are changing time zones, keep your child on his “home” time schedule until you arrive at your destination. Once at your destination, expect that for every hour time change you experience, your child will need a day to adjust …on the return leg, the same occurs. Try your best to remember regular naps and a consistent place for your child to sleep. Ironically, keeping a baby up and missing naps usually results in very sleepless nights.

Whether you are traveling near or far, or not at all, we wish you a happy, healthy and loving time with family and friends this holiday season!

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Philanthropy is an essential core value of ours, both in our personal and professional lives as pediatricians and through MD Moms. As physicians, women and mothers we are committed to raising awareness when it comes to both child and family health.
As you may or may not know, October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. While we love that there is a month of the year dedicated to awareness, we hope it will just be a kickoff to what is an entire year, and lifetime, of action.

It is nearly impossible to encounter a family that has not been touched by this dreadful disease in some way. For some of us it is our mothers or fathers, our sisters, our aunts, our grandmothers. For others it is a best friend, a friend of a friend, an acquaintance.
Many of you reading this have bravely fought and gloriously triumphed over a most devastating diagnosis. Too many women (and men) have not.
One more mother, one more grandparent, one more individual dying from breast cancer is one treasured person too many.

During the month of October, we will be donating 15% of the web sales of Baby Silk on our site mdmoms.com to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation.
This global organization, founded by the extraordinary Evelyn Lauder fifteen years ago, is dedicated to finding a cure in our lifetime and we hope we can help make that goal a reality!

We hope you will be inspired by a person you know, or even one you don't, to join us, get involved, and take action to fight breast cancer.

Health Tip: How to Perform a Breast Self-Exam

Get the facts.
Breast self-exam, as part of a 3-part program (including self-exam, mammograms and clinical breast exams every 3 years starting at age 20) can be an important element in the early detection of breast cancer. But how many of us really know how?

Here, a step-by-step guide on 3 different ways to perform a breast self-exam:
IN THE SHOWER

• Put one hand behind your head, elbow facing upward
  

• With the pads of your three middle fingers, move your hand over the entire breast area
  

• Use right hand for left breast, left hand for right breast
  

• Use one of the three following patterns to examine your breasts: 1)Circle: in a series of circles around your nipple, middle of breast, and outside perimeter of breast; 2) Up & Down: up and down in a zig zag pattern from top to bottom over the entire breast; or 3) Wedge: in a series of "wedges", working from the nipple outward in 8 or so sections
  

For consistency, be sure to examine the same way each time, using the pattern and technique recommended by your healthcare professional at your clinical breast exam. (The American Cancer society recommends the up & down pattern.) Check for lumps, knots or thickenings.

LYING DOWN

• Place a pillow or towel under your right shoulder, with your right hand behind your head.
  

• Using your left hand, follow the same technique (using one of the above patterns) as in the shower. Then lower your right arm slightly and with your left hand, check your right underarm.
  

• Check for lumps, knots or thickenings.
  

• Repeat on the other side, using your right hand to check the left breast and underarm.
  

IN FRONT OF A MIRROR

• With your hands firmly pressing down on your hips, check for changes in shape, size or skin texture of your breasts. Then raise your arms overhead and check again. Be sure to note any swelling, redness or skin dimpling. Also be sure to check for any changes in your nipple or unusual discharge.
  

Be sure to perform a self-exam monthly (perhaps after your periods when your breasts are not full or tender) and report any changes or irregularities to your healthcare professional immediately.

An important note: This guide is not intended as a replacement for medical care. For a complete diagnosis and course of treatment, please see your doctor.

The Breast Cancer Research Foundation has a great resource in its Breast Cancer Basics Library. Be sure to check it out for video and articles about everything from more details on how to perform a self exam to understanding the stages of breast cancer.

The Magic Mommy Kiss, and the Baby Silk Babysafe Sunscreen Towelettes, Seen Round the World

We’re not going to lie and say that it’s not unbelievably exciting (a dream, really) to wake up to photos of an A-list celebrity toting our products along with her most precious cargo (who, P.S., is definitely one of the most adorable tots in town). When we saw the pics of Jennifer Garner planting a big ‘ol magic mommy kiss on her darling Violet, while holding our Babysafe Sunscreen Towelettes, our “awwwwwws” turned to “WOOHOO!”s.

As founders of a company, in a celebrity-obsessed society, we couldn’t dream of a better caught-on-film moment. But as pediatricians, what REALLY excited us was seeing a mom diligent about sun safety…in almost-October!

“What a FABULOUS opportunity” we exclaimed, “to remind everyone that the sun’s harmful UV rays don’t take a vacation just because you came back from yours!”

So, here are a few tips and reminders to help us keep our kids protected, 365 days a year.

• Just because it’s cool outside doesn’t mean UV rays aren’t present and harmful. The temperature may have dropped by a few degrees, but UV rays are still present! Sunscreen is just as much of a post-labor day must-have as it is in the Spring and Summer
• Pack a lunch, pack a sunscreen single. Typically, daycares and schools don’t provide sunscreen for their students, yet kids spend considerable time outdoors (even in the winter). Recess, playtime, lunchtime, or school sports are all opportunities for UV exposure and an important time for sunscreen application.
• Don’t forget about afterschool sports. Whether it’s big brother or sister on the field, or baby cheering them on from the stands, even that hour or two a couple times a week adds up to a significant amount of time exposed to UV rays. If you’ve applied sunscreen to your child before school, don’t forget to reapply prior to heading out to practice.
• Baby it's cold outside! UV rays can be reflected off snow and other surfaces, so don’t forget to protect exposed areas with a broad spectrum sunscreen during winter sports or while perfecting your snow angel skills.