Issuu

pink PAG ES A Special Section in Honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month pg. 12

FOOD for

THOUGHT: A Healthy Mind, Body, & Spirit pg. 58

SKINCARE AND

AGING: What You Need To Know pg. 44

DAILY CHOICES

for better

BREAST HEALTH pg. 30

featuring

CHARLISA HERRIOTT OF CRUSHING CHEMO CHIC

Imagine Your Home Totally Organized

SPOOKY GOOD SAVINGS ARE HERE

% +

OFF

FREE INSTALLATION

PLUS AN ADDITIONAL 15% OFF RIGHT NOW

And 18 months financing* *SOME RESTRICTIONS MAY APPLY

Call Today & Schedule A Free In-Home Consultation

704-588-7272

charlotte.closetsbydesign.com There’s nothing spooky about getting organized. This October, create a home that feels calmer, functions better and is beautifully designed for the way your family lives. Trust the company voted Charlotte’s Best Closet Company. For more than 20 years, Closets by Design Charlotte has helped Lake Norman families transform their homes with personalized organizational solutions. Locally owned and operated, every project is custom-crafted right here in our Charlotte factory.

Feel Like Yourself Again Functional Medicine Meets Modern Longevity Care

At Renew Specialty Group, we understand that health is more than lab numbers: it’s how you feel every day. We blend functional medicine with advanced regenerative therapies to help you look and feel your best.

MEDICAL WEIGHT LOSS PEPTIDE THERAPY Dr. Coral Kirscher, DNP, FNP-C Dr. Micah Kirscher, DNP, FNP-C

HORMONE OPTIMIZATION

Nacole Wood, MSN, FNP-C

EBO2 FULL BODY DETOX ANTI-AGING & LONGEVITY SHOCKWAVE THERAPY PERIMENOPAUSE, MENOPAUSE & POSTPARTUM SUPPORT MEN’S HEALTH, TRT, ED THERAPY MALE ENHANCEMENT WITH PHALLOFILL

The Renew Specialty Group Team

PRP, EXOSOMES & REGENERATIVE THERAPY October Specials EBO2 Single Treatment: $999 Series of 3: $2600 IV THERAPY BUY 3 GET 1 FREE WEIGHT LOSS 1st Month Only $99 PRP Series of 3: $1200 Results may vary and are not guaranteed

COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATIONS

CALL OR TEXT

704-612-0011 18805 West Catawba Ave. Suite 100, Cornelius, NC 28031 appointments@renew-hw.com

ORGANIZE. ELEVATE.

thrive!

CUSTOM STORAGE SOLUTIONS THAT BRING ORDER AND BEAUTY TO EVERY ROOM IN YOUR HOME

R PO

TIO

N OF PROCE

benefitting

GO JEN GO FOUNDATION IN HONOR OF BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

for the way you live.

LOCALLY OWNED & MANUFACTURED OFFERING QUICK TURNAROUNDS FREE IN-HOME CONSULTATIONS

$ THE BEST PRICE GUARANTEED VISIT OUR NEW SHOWROOM AT 192 TALBERT POINTE DR., MOORESVILLE

GARAGES

. C LO S E T S . M U D RO O M S . L AU N D R Y RO O M S . H O M E O F F I C E S & M O R E !

(704) 635-1150 T HEC LO S E T NI C HE .CO M

VOTED

BEST OF THE LAKE 3 YEARS IN A ROW!

FRESH. LOCAL. BRUNCH. brunch returns to FLATIRON

PROUDLY OFFERING LOCALLY SOURCED PRODUCE AND PROTEINS, CREATING A TRUE FARM-TO-FORK EXPERIENCE WHILE SUPPORTING OUR COMMUNITY.

704-237-3246 FLATIRONONMAIN.COM

brunch offered

SATURDAYS 10 - 3 SUNDAYS 10 - 2

build your own

BLOODY MARYS & OMELETTES AVAILABLE

2 mimosas

IN THE HEART OF DAVIDSON | 215 S MAIN ST, DAVIDSON NC, 28036

342 Circle Avenue in Myers Park JohnMorgan@UBGCharlotte.com 704.307.4606 See Our Portfolio @ UrbanBuildingGroup.com

REAL support,

for WHOEVER'S CARRYING the WEIGHT.

AGES 5 AND UP, because sometimes it's you who needs support, and sometimes it's someone you love

SUPPORT THAT FITS your actual life, not a onesize-fits-all script

LO C AL, WOMAN-OWNED, & GENUINELY GLAD YOU'RE HERE

YOU DON'T HAVE TO HAVE IT ALL FIGURED OUT TO WALK THROUGH OUR DOOR WWW . U NBRIDLED LK N.C OM (704) 324-1882

121 N MAIN ST. SUITE 207, MOORESVILLE

editor V

OM THE

YEARS AGO, A VERY WISE WOMAN

gave me a piece of advice I’ve never forgotten: When you notice something you like about another woman, tell her.

Tell her you love her dress. Tell her she has a beautiful smile. Tell her she handled that difficult situation with grace. Tell her she’s doing a great job. Why? Because she may not see in herself what you see in her. And you never know when one kind word might completely change someone’s day. I think about that advice often, especially this month. October is our Pink Pages issue and Breast Cancer Awareness Month. It is also Domestic Violence Awareness Month. These are very different experiences, and both remind us of something important: we rarely know everything another woman is carrying. Women are really good at saying, “I’m fine.” The woman sitting beside you may be going through chemotherapy and still showing up for work. She may be afraid to go home. She may be grieving, struggling financially, caring for a sick parent, or simply holding together more pieces than anyone realizes.

And this month, I’m especially proud for you to meet our cover woman, Charlisa Herriott. Through Crushing Chemo Chic, Charlisa walks alongside women during and after cancer, helping them move through fear toward healing and celebration.

w TEAM

LKN

MAMIE LEE editor-in-chief

JUSTIN CKEZEPIS publisher

LESLIE OGLE editor / production manager

CHELSEA BREN art director

STEPHANIE SULLIVAN senior account executive

ELLYN AHLEMEYER account executive

PAIGE VASTBINDER account executive

BROOKE McREYNOLDS account executive

LALAINE AGUSTIN administration

DANI TUBIO digital assistant

So this October, check on your people. Ask, “How are you?” Then maybe ask again, “No, really. How are you?” And when you see something beautiful, brave, funny, kind, or strong in another woman, say it out loud. She may need to hear it more than you know. w

mamie

LAKE NORMAN WOMAN

Lake Norman Woman reserves the right to deny any advertisement or listing that does not meet Lake Norman Woman standards. Submissions are welcome but unsolicited materials are not guaranteed to be returned. Lake Norman Woman assumes no responsibility for information, products, services, or statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. An advertised special printed in this publication is subject to change without notice. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher is prohibited.

OCTOBER 2026

All of them remind me that being strong doesn’t mean doing life alone.

connect with us!

I’m grateful that our community has organizations doing exactly that. Hope House Foundation provides transitional housing and support for women and children experiencing situational homelessness in the Lake Norman area. Safe Alliance provides hope and healing to people impacted by domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking. Go Jen Go Foundation helps Lake Norman and Charlotte families facing breast cancer with everyday expenses so patients can focus on healing.

Sometimes we need to check on the strong ones.

@LKNWOMANMAG

L O C A L October C O N T R I B U T O R S:

AD SUBMISSIONS: leslie@lakenormanwoman.com SHANNON BALL; ANNA CAMPBELL; ASHLY DOLLAR; DR. MICHAEL FORAN; MEG D. GOLDSTEIN; EMILY HANSON; IREDELL HEALTH SYSTEM; DAVE JONES; AMY ROYER; DR. KATHLEEN RUSSO; MARISSA RUSSO; DR. HENRY B. WILSON

The Porch You Want. Without The Work. Created to bring warmth, personality, and a little extra joy to the spaces that welcome people in. www.theporchpop.com

Custom porch styling, all year long

Seasonal Packages Available!

336.755.8325 THEPORCHPOP@GMAIL.COM

L A K E N O R M A N wO M A N . C O M

A T

CAROLINA BREAST FRIENDS

contents OCTOBER 2026

annual

PINK

PAGES 16

GO JEN GO

What My Mother (& Breast Cancer) Taught Me About Courage

Breast Friends: 22 Carolina A New Source Of

Jen's Legacy

Art Of Natural24 The Looking Breast Surgery

Time For A Mammogram?

sponsored by Iredell Health

we all know someone! This

System, you’ll find inspiring stories,

far-reaching disease touches

helpful information, and resources

so many lives on so many levels,

designed to educate and empower. May

it unites us ... and there is power in

these pages serve as a reminder that

numbers. Awareness and early

knowledge brings confidence, early

detection remain among our

action can save lives, and, together,

most powerful tools. When breast

we can move mountains. SPONSORED BY

OCTOBER 2026

When was your last Mammo Mondays mammogram? at Iredell Mooresville

In today’s busy world, it’s Scheduling a mammogram can be hectic. At Iredell easy to put off screening at Mooresville, we make it a little bit easier tests, likeImaging mammograms. receiveit’sthis 3D mammography screening. But if you’re atowoman, crucial to remember this: Same day appointments & walk-ins are welcome! Breast cancer is typically easier to treat when for eligibility Mondays, 7:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.* found early. Scan guidelines & cost *Walk-ins accepted until 4 p.m. Regular appointments available M-F.

704.360.6650 653 Bluefield Rd., Mooresville iredellmooresville.com

Who should get a

mammogram?

Imaging at Mooresville

The American Cancer Society recommends women at average risk for breast cancer be screened according to these guidelines:

653 Bluefield Rd., Suite C 704.878.4552

WOMEN AGES 40-44

WOMEN AGES 45-54

WOMEN AGES 55+

Should have the choice to start screening with a mammogram every year.

Should get mammograms every year.

Should start having a mammogram every other year. Screening should continue as long as a woman is in good health and expected to live at least 10 more years.

*Women who are at high risk for breast cancer may need to start screening earlier or be screened more often.

What My Mother (& breast cancer) Taught Me About Courage “Becoming a mother changed the way I think about my patients,” she smiles. “I see how precious time is and how much our families mean to us. When someone is diagnosed with cancer, they aren’t just thinking about themselves. They are thinking about the people they love and the life they want to continue living. Courage doesn’t mean you’re never afraid. My mom was afraid. But she kept moving forward. She showed me that you can acknowledge the fear and still choose hope and joy.” During October’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Dr. Dallas’ story carries a particularly meaningful message. Her career was shaped by watching her own mother navigate illness, and decades later, that experience continues to influence the physician she is with her patients and the relationships she continues to build.

Dr.

J E N N I F E R D A L L A S , an oncologist with Southern Oncology Specialists, was in college when her mother was diagnosed. It left an indelible mark, influencing not only how she came to understand cancer, but also the physician she would ultimately become. “I remember watching my mom go through breast cancer and realizing how much an oncologist becomes part of a family’s life,” she shares. “It isn’t only about medical treatment. It’s about being there for someone when they are scared, when they have questions, and when they need someone to believe in them.”

”

Growing up in Senoia, Georgia, Dr. Dallas attended the University of Georgia before earning her medical degree at the Medical College of Georgia where she also met her husband, Dr. Chirstopher Young. She completed her residency and fellowship at the University of Florida.

“I want my patients to know that I see them as a person first,” she says. “Cancer is a part of their story, but it isn’t the whole story. My job is to help them through their journey while remembering everything they are fighting to get back to. My mom showed me what strength looks like. She taught me that there can be hope even in the hardest moments. I think about that every time I sit with someone who is facing a cancer diagnosis.”

She taught me that there can be hope even in the hardest moments. I think about that every time I sit with someone who is facing a cancer diagnosis.”

With two daughters, Isabella and Sophia, her own family life has given her yet another perspective on what it means to care for others.

OCTOBER 2026

WRITER LESLIE OGLE

PHOTOGRAPHER CHELSEA BREN

pinkWARRIORS Over the past 15 years, Lake Norman Woman has shared the stories of women navigating breast cancer — stories of courage, hope and strength. We’re grateful to these inspiring women for sharing their journeys and reminding our community of the power of standing together.

V I S I T O U R W E B S I T E W W W. L A K E N O R M A N W O M A N . C O M T O R E A D O U R O C T O B E R A R C H I V E S

L A K E N O R M A N wO M A N . C O M

ANNUAL PINK PAGES

Through its Patient Assistance Program, Go Jen Go helps relieve everyday financial stress by covering essential living expenses such as rent, utilities, transportation, and groceries, allowing patients to focus on treatment, recovery, and healing. Beyond financial support, the foundation also creates opportunities for joy, connection, and meaningful experiences that uplift the entire family throughout their cancer journey:

THE GO JEN GO FOUNDATION HELPS EASE THE FINANCIAL BURDEN OF A BREAST CANCER DIAGNOSIS

Go Jen Go assists over 110 families monthly, delivering critical aid right when it matters most. Since launching in 2009, the organization: Served more than 4,500 breast cancer patients Granted over $2.5 million in direct financial relief Supported more than 550 families through expanded assistance programs

Mood Williams Camp Scholarship Fund Sends children of grantees to enriching camps and youth programming.

Operation Spread the Joy Delivers holiday gifts and festive cheer to families.

JEN’S legacy

Grantee Support Provides Hope in a Box care packages alongside social gatherings and educational programming.

Breast cancer touches families in every corner of our area, often creating significant financial challenges alongside the emotional and physical impact of a diagnosis. The Go Jen Go Foundation provides vital financial assistance and compassionate, personalized support to local individuals facing breast cancer.

A LIFELINE FOR LOCAL B R E A S T C A N C E R P AT I E N T S

HOW TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE Community Partnerships Engage your business or organization through customized corporate sponsorships. Direct Donations Make a one-time gift that goes straight toward helping local families pay critical bills. Jen’s Legacy Giving Set up a recurring monthly contribution or planned gift to build sustainable care. Camp Fund Support Donate directly to send children of patients to camp and other programs. Host an Event Turn your workplace initiative or neighborhood gathering into a charity fundraiser. Volunteer & Participate Share your time, adopt a family for holiday gift giving, or sign up for an upcoming event—such as the Pink Cupcake Walk (Oct. 3), My Breast Friend’s Wedding (Oct. 22), or the 15th Annual Run Jen Run 5K & Festival (March 20, 2027).

A LEGACY BORN FROM COMPASSION The foundation honors the memory and legacy of Jen Pagani, a mother whose resilience continues to touch lives across the region. Shortly after giving birth to her second son in 2007, Jen was diagnosed with an aggressive form of breast cancer. Over nearly seven years, she underwent 19 chemotherapy regimens and multiple treatments with humor and courage. While receiving care, Jen witnessed fellow patients struggling to afford basic necessities. Driven to help, she began handing out personal gift cards in infusion rooms and vowed to create a lasting support system for families in need. Though Jen passed away in 2014, her promise lives on as The Go Jen Go Foundation. Every grant distributed, volunteer hour given, and family supported carries forward her vision of hope, dignity, and practical relief.

OCTOBER 2026

To learn more about receiving assistance, donating, or volunteering, visit gojengo.org

H O M E 2 C O U R T

S O U T H E R N

L I O N

P R E S E N T S

yo u r RACKS

PROTECT Benefitting RO

OM ONE

Saturday,

OCT. 24TH

A MAHJONG CHARITY EVENT

OM TWO

SOUTHERN LION; 11033 Carolina Place Pkwy, Pineville

OM THRE E

P L AY I T . L E A R N I T .

P L AY I T . E N J O Y I T .

P L AY T O W I N !

Club Mahj Academy:

Guided Open Play:

The Tournament:

Best for those who have never played or need a total refresher.

Best for casual players who want to meet new people and play in a relaxed, social atmosphere.

Best for experienced players looking for a true, four-round competition.

INCLUDES:

Three rounds of play Switch tables every round Lunch & refreshments Prizes for Special Hands

Early 10:00 AM entry Four rounds of competitive play Lunch & refreshments Tournament prizes

$85 per person

INCLUDES:

Intensive coaching Official NMJL card to keep Use of premium equipment Lunch & refreshments Select the Beginner Ticket for Room 1

$125 per person

Join Home2Court & Southern Lion for the Mahjong event of the season! Enjoy an afternoon of fun, friendly competition and community while supporting Go Jen Go Foundation and Carolina Breast Friends. A portion of proceeds benefits breast cancer patients and survivors.

Choose your experience & REGISTER TODAY!

ANNUAL PINK PAGES

time for a mammogram? DON’T SKIP THIS IMPORTANT SCREENING YO U TA K E G O O D C A R E O F YO U R

health by eating right, exercising and reducing stress. But are you also having regular mammograms? If not, you could be overlooking a vital form of self-care. A mammogram is a low-dose breast x-ray. Medical experts say it is the most effective way to look for changes in the breasts that could eventually become cancerous. Mammograms can find signs of cancer years before symptoms— such as a lump, pain or nipple discharge—show up. When breast cancer is found early, it is often easier to treat. Less likely to need aggressive treatments such as mastectomy (surgical removal of the breast). Less likely to need chemotherapy More likely to be cured Simply put, mammograms can save lives. Talk with your doctor about having regular mammograms starting at age 40.

The American Cancer Society recommends: Women between 40 and 44 have the option to start screening with a mammogram every year. Women 45 -54 should get mammograms every year. Women 55 and older can switch to a mammogram every other year, or they can choose to continue yearly mammograms. Screening should continue as long as a woman is in good health and is expected to live at least 10 more years. All women should understand what to expect when getting a mammogram for breast cancer screening – what the test can and cannot do. Women who notice any changes in their breasts should see a physician right away.

Mammograms:

W H AT T O E X P E C T 1 After you check in, you will remove your shirt and bra and put on a loosefitting top that opens in the front. The technician will give you wipes so you can remove all traces of deodorant, antiperspirant, lotion, powder or perfume from your breasts and underarms. These products can show up on the x-ray. 2 Next, you’ll enter the x-ray room. Before you get started, be sure to tell the technician if you think you may be pregnant or if you have breast implants. 3 The technician will guide you into the right position in front of the mammography machine and gently place your breast on its surface. They will place a plastic plate on top and press down to flatten your breast tissue, which will create the highest-quality pictures. 4 The technician will ask you to hold still while they take the x-rays. You’re likely to feel some discomfort, but it usually goes away quickly. 5 You will typically receive your results by mail within 30 days. The mammography facility will also send the results to your doctor. If you have questions about your report, talk with your doctor.

Iredell Health System includes Iredell Memorial Hospital; Iredell Davis Medical Center; Iredell Davis Behavioral Health Hospital; Iredell Mooresville; Iredell Home Health; Iredell Wound Care & Hyperbaric Center; Community and Corporate Wellness; Occupational Medicine; the Iredell Physician Network and more. Iredell Memorial Hospital is the largest nonprofit hospital in Iredell County. The comprehensive healthcare organization has 391 licensed beds; more than 2,000 employees; and has approximately 365 healthcare providers representing various specialties. Centers of excellence include Women’s and Children’s; Cardiovascular; Cancer; Surgical Services and Wellness & Prevention. The health system’s Iredell Mooresville campus is home to the area’s only 24-hour urgent care facility, as well as an ambulatory surgery center, imaging center, rehabilitation services, and physician practices. The mission of Iredell Health System is to inspire wellbeing. For a comprehensive list of services and programs, visit www.iredellhealth.org.

OCTOBER 2026

WRITER ANNA CAMPBELL

ACTUAL LIFTED CLIENTS

BEFORE

AFTER

LOOK LIFTED,

FEEL UNSTOPPABLE BEFORE

25 off %

O C T O B E R

AFTER

S P E C I A L S

1200 off

P U R C H AS E A S E R I E S O F 2 S C U L PT RA

1500

R F M I C R O N E E D L I N G PAC KAG E S

F U L L FA C I A L B A L A N C I N G

& get a FREE Co2 Laser Treatment

Tighter. Smoother. Brighter.

Harmonize Your Features Naturally.

Stimulate. Rejuvenate. Lasting Results.

980-867-0020

@ L I F T E D A E S T H E T I C S C LT

SAV I N G S !

L I F T E D A E S T H E T I C S C LT.C O M

705 NORTHEAST DRIVE, SUITE 13, DAVIDSON, NC

L A K E N O R M A N wO M A N . C O M

Reimagining Care. Restoring Trust. Transforming Medicine, ONE STORY AT A TIME

MEET ONE HEALTH OB/GYN PHYSICIAN,

Dr. Hadeer Metwally Dr. Metwally serves patients at these offices: UNIVERSITY

4815 Johnston Oehler Rd, Suite 200 704-801-7410 HUNTERSVILLE

13620 Reese Blvd East, Suite 110 704-801-7791 STANLY

105 Yadkin St #102, Albemarle 980-323-5330

From Survivor to Advocate for Women’s Health A PHYSICIAN’S PERSONAL PERSPECTIVE ON WOMEN’S HEALTH For me, caring for women means seeing the whole person—not just a diagnosis or a moment in time. From preventive and breast health to reproductive care and menopause, I am passionate about creating an environment where women feel heard, informed, and empowered to make decisions about their health. Breast health and cancer awareness are especially personal to me. As a breast cancer survivor, I know firsthand the uncertainty and strength that come with this journey. Four years ago, my diagnosis changed my life forever and shaped the person I am today. That experience deepened my passion for educating women, encouraging early detection, and helping patients feel empowered to advocate for their own health.

Creating The Healthcare We ALL Deserve

As a breast cancer survivor, I KNOW FIRSTHAND THE CHALLENGES, UNCERTAINTIES, AND STRENGTH THAT COME WITH THIS JOURNEY. Breast Cancer Awareness Month is an important reminder that preventive care matters. Knowing your personal and family history, staying current with recommended screenings, and talking with your healthcare provider about concerns can make a meaningful difference. Knowledge and early action can truly save lives. I earned my medical degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and completed my residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of Florida.

Today, as a board-certified OB/GYN at One Health, I am proud to work alongside a collaborative team committed to relationship-centered, patient-focused care. Being part of One Health allows me to bring together my professional passion and personal experience in a way that I hope makes a difference for the women I care for. This October, I encourage every woman to prioritize her health, know her risk, stay current with recommended screenings, and never hesitate to ask questions.

ONE HEALTH OB/GYN OFFICE LOCATIONS: CORNELIUS 704-801-7330 1020 Tree of Life Ln, Ste 31

LINCOLNTON 980-212-6230 447 McAlister Rd, Ste 3500

DENVER 704-801-7300 409 Olin Way, Ste 2200

CHARLOTTE 704-801-7410 4815 Johnston Oehler Rd, Ste 200

HUNTERSVILLE 704-801-8150 13620 Reese Blvd E, Ste 100

STANLY 980-323-5330 105 Yadkin St #102, Albemarle

MOORESVILLE 704-801-7370 170 Medical Park Rd, Ste 314

OneHealthMPC.com

ANNUAL PINK PAGES

CAROLINA BREAST FRIENDS

A New Source of Support for the Lake Norman Community and Thrivers. The organization focuses not only on treatment, but on the whole person, recognizing that breast cancer can affect confidence, relationships, emotional wellbeing, family life, and day-to-day living. Now, CBF is expanding that support into Lake Norman. LAKE NORMAN IS KNOWN FOR

its strong sense of community; neighbors helping neighbors, families building lives together, and local organizations stepping forward when support is needed most. Now, Carolina Breast Friends is bringing that same spirit of connection to breast cancer Survivors and Thrivers throughout the Lake Norman area.

With dedicated funding supporting the initiative, services will be introduced in phases over the coming months. This thoughtful approach will allow Carolina Breast Friends to build strong local relationships, better understand the needs of the Lake Norman breast cancer community, and develop meaningful, sustainable programming.

Today, that belief continues to guide CBF’s work.

“Our goal is to meet people where they are,” says Lisa Dale Levinson, Executive Director of Carolina Breast Friends. “We want Survivors and Thrivers in Lake Norman to know that there is a community ready to support them, listen to them and walk alongside them.”

From its home at The Pink House in Charlotte, North Carolina, Breast Friends provides free programs, resources, education, mentoring, and emotional support to Survivors

CBF services include peer mentoring, support groups, wellness and educational programs, retreats and opportunities for connection. The organization also provides practical

For more than two decades, Carolina Breast Friends (CBF) has supported people through every stage of a breast cancer journey. Founded in 2003 by breast cancer Survivor Kristy Adams-Ebel, the organization began with a simple but powerful belief: no one should have to face breast cancer alone.

resources such as wigs, postmastectomy bras and prostheses, along with therapeutic wellness services designed to help Survivors and Thrivers feel more comfortable and confident throughout treatment and beyond. All Carolina Breast Friends programs and services are offered free of charge. As the Lake Norman initiative grows, CBF plans to work alongside local healthcare providers, community organizations, businesses, volunteers, and most importantly, Survivors and Thrivers themselves. The goal is not simply to replicate what already exists in Charlotte, but to listen to the Lake Norman community and shape services around its unique needs. That local connection matters. Someone newly diagnosed may need to talk with a person who truly understands the fear and uncertainty of those first weeks. A young Survivor may be navigating career, fertility, or family concerns. Someone living with metastatic breast cancer may be searching for others who understand the realities of ongoing treatment. Caregivers and loved ones may need support too. Carolina Breast Friends exists for all of them. What began more than 20 years ago with one Survivor seeking connection has grown into a community built on compassion, understanding, and hope. As CBF begins this outreach in Lake Norman, its message remains beautifully simple:

You do not have to face breast cancer alone.

To learn more about Carolina Breast Friends, upcoming Lake Norman programs, volunteer opportunities, or ways to become involved, visit CarolinaBreastFriends.org or reach out to the Director of Programming, Ashly Dollar, at adollar@carolinabreastfriends.org.

22 O C T O B E R 2 0 2 6

Medical & Cosmetic Dermatology

Care for Your Skin, Hair & Scars That Come After At Charlotte Skin & Laser, we are honored to support breast cancer patients and survivors with personalized care for: Hair rejuvenation after chemotherapy or radiation Scar reduction after breast surgery Skin rejuvenation for treatment-related changes And because healthy skin matters at every stage of life, our dermatology team also provides comprehensive medical skin care — from routine skin checks and changing spots to rashes and other skin concerns.

SCAN HERE to learn more or schedule an appointment

Charlotte Skin & Laser • charlotteskinandlaser.com • 704-333-9113 • Myers Park • Huntersville

L A K E N O R M A N wO M A N . C O M

ANNUAL PINK PAGES

the art of

Natural-Looking Breast Surgery WHETHER A WOMAN IS CONSIDERING A

breast lift, augmentation, reduction, revision surgery, or reconstruction after breast cancer, the goal is rarely simply to make a breast larger or smaller. The real challenge is creating proportion, symmetry, and a result that looks natural for her body. “Natural” means something different to each woman. It may mean restoring fullness after pregnancy, creating smaller and lighter breasts, feeling like herself again after cancer treatment, or addressing changes from a previous surgery as her body and preferences evolve.

attention to contour and proportion. It also reinforces how personal this part of the body can be. I bring that same attention to cosmetic breast surgery.

During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we recognize that recovery The starting point is listening. Before discussing involves more than treating an implant size or technique, I want to disease. Women deserve understand what bothers a woman, what she thoughtful conversations hopes to change, and what she already likes about their options, including about her breasts. Those details help define a reconstruction or result that feels personal to her. choosing to remain A thoughtful Planning brings those goals together flat, and support with anatomy. Chest width, skin quality, plan aims for for the path that fits existing breast tissue, nipple position, their lives. meaningful and differences between the two sides surgery all influence the approach. Photographs improvement Revision presents its own may communicate preferences, but the plan must fit the woman’s own body. while respecting challenges. Women unhappy with a Size is only one part of the picture. the tissues and previous result often Shape, balance, and how the breast are not asking for the woman’s transitions into the surrounding chest something dramatic; matter just as much. The desired they are asking for priorities. appearance may require a lift, a something that change in volume, or both. The art lies in choosing what will best serve the individual patient. My work in breast reconstruction has deepened my appreciation for these details. Rebuilding a breast after cancer—especially when attempting to restore sensation—requires technical precision and close

24 O C T O B E R 2 0 2 6

finally looks right. This may mean correcting asymmetry, addressing scar tissue, or choosing an implant size and profile better suited to their body. Whatever the reason for surgery, an honest discussion includes potential benefits as well as scars, recovery, risks, and limitations. Breasts naturally differ, and perfect symmetry is not a realistic promise. A thoughtful plan aims for meaningful improvement while respecting the tissues and the woman’s priorities. For me, the art of naturallooking breast surgery is bringing technical precision and aesthetic judgment together with an understanding of the person. The goal is a result that fits her body and helps her feel more at home in it.

H E N RY B . W I L S O N , M D , FA C S | L A K E N O R M A N P L A S T I C S U R G E RY

Henry B. Wilson, MD, FACS, is a double board-certified plastic surgeon and founder of Lake Norman Plastic Surgery in Huntersville. He completed fellowship training at Georgetown in aesthetic and breast surgery and has practiced plastic surgery for 25 years. You can contact Dr. Wilson at www.lknplasticsurgery.com or call 704.885.0550.

BEYOND Diagnosis THE

C A N C E R M AY C H A N G E Y O U R J O U R N E Y, B U T I T D O E S N OT D E F I N E YO U R L I F E .

Charlisa "Coach C" Herriott

Charlisa “Coach C” Herriott & Crushing Chemo Chic® empower women to navigate cancer and survivorship with faith, resilience, hope, and wholeness—moving beyond simply surviving to intentionally living healed, whole, and well.

CONNECT • LEARN • BE EMPOWERED

Cancer Survivorship Coach

Cancer Care Minister

Author/ Inspirational Speaker

Miss Cancer Warrior 2018

Founder, Crushing ® Chemo Chic

Host, The HEALED ® Exchange with Coach C

THERE IS STILL LIFE TO LIVE, PURPOSE TO PURSUE, AND HEALING TO EMBRACE.

where

RESILIENCE

meets & meets

STYLE

HEALING

C OAC H C @ C RU S H I N G C H E M O C H I C .C O M W W W.C RU S H I N G C H E M O C H I C .C O M

HOPE

(404) 974-9665

@ C RU S H I N G C H E M O C H I C

ANNUAL PINK PAGES

HOW TO SUPPORT SOMEONE

who is battling breast cancer WHEN SOMEONE IS

diagnosed with breast cancer, loneliness and despair can begin to creep in. This is why finding the right support is key to their successful treatment and recovery. Breast cancer treatment is a highly personalized process that could include chemotherapy, surgery, radiation, or various forms of therapy. It could result in hair loss, fatigue, nausea and vomiting, and immunodeficiencies. These side effects may be shortlived or permanent and can take a toll on someone’s mental, physical, and emotional health. Some studies show there may be a link to the amount of support a person receives during and after undergoing treatment for breast cancer. There are several ways to show them some love and care during this difficult time without breaking the bank. Some may be easier than you think.

HERE ARE SOME IDEAS: Send them a text message to let them know you’re thinking about them. Drive them to and from appointments. Offer to take their children to and from school or activities. Send over a food delivery service gift card such as Doordash or UberEats. Offer to clean their home or do their laundry.

Iredell Health System hosts a Breast Cancer Support Group on the first Tuesday of each month at the Statesville YMCA from 6:00-7:00 p.m. No reservation is required, and refreshments are provided. Contact Jen Forte, Oncology Navigator, at Jennifer.forte@iredellhealth.org for more information.

Take their kids out for the day so they can enjoy some much-needed rest. Make a variety of meals to pop in their freezer for days when they can’t cook. Offer to do their grocery shopping. Give their pets some love and attention. Bring them their favorite drink and sit and chat. Help them organize their medications. Find local support groups and go with them. Be the point of contact for updating other friends and family on their recovery.

Support looks different for everyone. Talk to your friend about their needs and wants and how to best serve them. Encouraging them to build relationships with their care team is critical to understanding their diagnosis and treatment plan. This may include their oncologist, medical social worker, or therapist. Your friend will forever appreciate the time you took to support them during their journey.

26 O C T O B E R 2 0 2 6

EXCLUSIVE OFFER FOR LKNW READ ERS

be our

guest!. you deserve it

because confidence changes everything, first-time Waxing the City customers will receive one of the following services FREE with the purchase of any other service at regular price

mention this flyer when booking to redeem this exclusive offer CALL OR BOOK ONLINE! 70 4 . 992 . 82 8 8 W W W. WA X I N G T H E C I T Y. C O M

PU RC H A S E O N E , C H O O S E O N E S E RV I C E F R E E :

BROWS

LI P

CH I N

EARS

NOSE

UNDER ARM

OFFER VALID ALL OCTOBER. 1542 5 H O D G E S C I R C L E , UNIT C H U N T E R SV I L L E , N C

L A K E N O R M A N wO M A N . C O M

MORE THAN PINK Women supporting women

October may be wrapped in pink, but behind every ribbon is a woman — a mother, daughter, sister, friend or neighbor. As a mother-daughter-owned boutique, Whitlyn’s has always been surrounded by incredible women. We celebrate your milestones, hear your stories and see firsthand just how powerful women supporting women can be. This October, let the pink ribbon be a reminder to show up. Check on a friend. Make the appointment you’ve been putting off. Celebrate the survivors. Remember the women we’ve lost. And encourage the women you love to take care of themselves. Sometimes the smallest gesture — a meal, a card, a phone call or simply saying “I’m here” — can mean more than we realize. This month and every month, may we be women who show up for women. With love, Whitney & Lynne Whitlyn’s Boutique

Whitlyn’s Boutique 3853 N NC 16 Business Hwy Denver, NC 28037 www.whitlyns.com

START LOVING YOUR HAIR AGAIN!

NON-SURGICAL HAIR RESTORATION FOR MEN & WOMEN

Exclusive MedicalGrade Hair Prosthetics Wigs & Hair Toppers Human & Synthetic

Years in Business

Trichology Hair & Scalp Health Services Non-Surgical Hair Replacement Private, Discreet & One-On-One Service

DEBBY LONG Owner, Master Hair Restoration Stylist, Designer, & Educator

www.LKNhairsolutions.com 146 MEDICAL PARK ROAD, SUITE 208, MOORESVILLE, NC Located in the Lake Norman Regional Medical Center (exit 33)

CHEMO WIG SPECIALISTS

(704) 230-9000 FREE CONSULTATION BY APPOINTMENT

S TA R T W I T H M E TA B O L I C H E A LT H . Metabolic health is about far more than weight. It includes how well the body regulates blood sugar, insulin, blood pressure, inflammation, and stored fat. A woman can look thin and still have poor insulin sensitivity, while another woman may carry extra weight and have many healthy metabolic markers. Rather than focusing only on the scale, pay attention to energy, waist circumference, blood pressure, glucose, triglycerides, HDL cholesterol, and, when appropriate, fasting insulin. Improving these markers supports the entire body, including hormonal and breast health.

everyday choices

T H AT S U P P O R T A H E A LT H I E R B O D Y During October’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month, much of the conversation centers on finding disease. Screening is important, but breast health is also part of a much larger picture: the health of the whole woman. Our breasts do not exist separately from our metabolism, hormones, muscles, sleep, stress, and daily habits. While no lifestyle can guarantee prevention, and a diagnosis is never a woman’s fault, the way we care for the body every day can help create a healthier internal environment.

E AT T O N O U R I S H — N O T P U N I S H — YO U R B O D Y. A supportive way of eating is not a restrictive “cancer diet.” It is a sustainable pattern built around real food: colorful vegetables and fruit, beans, lentils, nuts, seeds, quality protein, healthy fats, and fiber-rich carbohydrates. Protein at each meal helps maintain muscle and steadier energy. Fiber supports the gut microbiome and the body’s normal elimination of metabolic waste. Minimize highly processed foods and added sugar without demanding perfection. What you do most of the time is far more important than an occasional dessert or celebration meal.

BE THOUGHTFUL ABOUT ALCOHOL. Alcohol has become woven into many social and wellness rituals, especially for women in midlife. Yet it is not health-neutral, and breast-cancer risk generally rises as alcohol intake increases. This does not require shame or an all-or-nothing rule. It does invite an honest look at frequency and quantity. Consider alcohol-free days, smaller servings, or new ways to celebrate and unwind.

R E S P E C T S L E E P, S T R E S S , A N D R E C O V E R Y. Chronic stress and inadequate sleep affect appetite, blood sugar, inflammation, and the choices we make the following day. Recovery is not laziness; it is part of health. Protect a consistent sleep window, get morning light, create moments of quiet, and give yourself permission to slow down. Breathwork, time outdoors, meaningful relationships, prayer, meditation, and simply putting the phone away can all help the nervous system shift out of constant alert.

BUILD AND PROTECT MUSCLE. Muscle is one of our most powerful metabolic organs. It helps the body use glucose efficiently, supports insulin sensitivity, protects bone, and preserves independence as we age. Women need more than cardio alone. Aim to include strength training two or three times each week, along with regular walking and enjoyable cardiovascular exercise. It does not have to be extreme. Consistency matters more than intensity, and even brief sessions accumulated through the week can make a meaningful difference.

USE SCREENING AS ONE PA R T O F A L A R G E R P L A N . Healthy habits do not replace mammography, evaluation of a new breast change, or an individualized screening plan. They complement them. Know your family history and breast density, keep up with recommended screening, and talk with your clinician about your personal risk. Then look beyond the once-a-year appointment. Breast health is also supported in the kitchen, at the gym, during sleep, and in the small decisions repeated every day.

LKN expert K AT H L E E N R U S S O , M D

30 O C T O B E R 2 0 2 6

C A R O L I N A H E A LT H S P A N I N S T I T U T E

Kathleen Russo, MD, is the founder and medical director of Carolina HealthSpan Institute, with locations in Charlotte and Lake Norman. She helps women navigate menopause, hormonal health, metabolic wellness, and healthy aging through personalized, whole-person care.

L A K E N O R M A N wO M A N . C O M

RIPPL RIPPLE HOW ONE WOMAN'S JOURNEY WITH CANCER

became a wave of

HOPE, HEALING, AND PURPOSE

32 O C T O B E R 2 0 2 6

WRITER LESLIE OGLE

PHOTOGRAPHER CHELSEA BREN

ES... w

hen she first received the news, she didn't ask, “Why me?” Instead, she asked, “How can I serve and help others?”

Every now and then, someone comes along who has learned not simply to survive the storms of life, but to find purpose and power within them ... to gather what they have learned and pass that knowledge along. Charlisa Herriott is one of those people. With faith as her compass, she has transformed one of life's most difficult journeys into

“ONE HEALED LIFE CAN C R E AT E A R I P P L E E F F E C T TOUCHING THE LIVES OF FA M I L I E S , S T R E N G T H E N I N G COMMUNITIES, AND RESTORING HOPE INTO THE H E A R T S O F O T H E R S .” —COACH C (CHARLISA HERRIOTT)

a calling and, in doing so, is touching lives in ways she may never fully realize. Known to many as Coach C, the Crushing Chemo Chic®, Charlisa is a three-time cancer thriver, cancer survivorship coach, author, speaker, cancer care minister, advocate, and host of The HEALED Exchange™ with Coach C on WSIC Radio. But titles alone cannot begin to tell her story or explain the depth of the journey that led her here.

L A K E N O R M A N wO M A N . C O M

Inspiration from every

VIEW

SERVING LAKE NORMAN'S BUILDERS AND HOMEOWNERS WITH THE FINEST SELECTION OF WINDOWS, DOORS, & ARCHITECTURAL PRODUCTS FOR OVER 25 YEARS.

704.344.1875 WindowAndDoorPros.com

Charlisa was first diagnosed with thymoma, a rare cancer of the thymus, in 2007. Her treatment included chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation. She ultimately beat the disease ... twice! But cancer returned, bringing with it another difficult and uncertain chapter. This time, the road forward was not as clear. Chemotherapy was no longer an option. She had already undergone radiation twice, and surgery carried significant concerns about her quality of life. Once again, she found herself facing questions no one wants to ask. “It changes the way you think,” Charlisa reflects. “The way you plan, the way you see tomorrow, and the very direction of your life. Cancer is like a pebble dropped into water. One person gets the diagnosis, but its impact is felt by spouses, children, extended family, friends, caregivers, workplaces, churches, and entire communities. But the ripples work in the other direction, too. When you share information, raise awareness, and spread love, the impact can travel far beyond where it began.” Charlisa refuses to allow cancer to negatively define her. Instead, she has chosen to transform what she has endured into something that can serve others—bringing together faith, information, encouragement, and lived experiences for those who may be standing where she once stood. “While a diagnosis may happen in a single moment,” she points out, “its effects rarely remain there. The questions can linger. The fear can follow. Even after treatment ends and loved ones breathe a collective sigh of relief, survivors often find themselves learning how to live in a body, and a world, that may feel different than it once did.” By creating a safe space for women, Charlisa is also showing us how fear can be acknowledged without surrendering to it. A place where

difficult questions can be asked. Where scars—both visible and invisible—are understood. And where healing is recognized as something far more complex than simply reaching the end of treatment. “I am deeply honored,” she smiles, “to walk alongside incredible women on their journey from darkness to healing, from fear to celebration.” Perhaps that word “alongside” is what makes her work so meaningful. Charlisa is not standing at a distance, offering advice about a road she has never traveled. She knows the language of scans, treatment decisions, uncertainty, and fear. She understands the exhausting cycle of waiting for answers and the emotional weight carried between appointments. She also understands that surviving cancer does not necessarily mean leaving cancer behind. For many survivors, the physical scars tell only part of the story. There can also be anxiety, fear of recurrence, questions about identity, and the challenge of learning how to trust tomorrow again. Charlisa helps women develop strategies for moving beyond fear and anxiety and toward joy, healing, and wholeness. Through her coaching, speaking, ministry, advocacy, and radio program, she continually encourages others to recognize that while cancer may become part of their story, it does not have to write the ending. “Healing doesn't end when treatment does,” Charlisa explains. “It continues when we choose to rise, renew, and live beyond the scars. A diagnosis is just the drop. The ripple, however, can reach far beyond the person who first receives the news.”

“ I A M D E E P LY H O N O R E D , ” S H E S M I L E S , “ T O W A L K ALONGSIDE INCREDIBLE WOMEN ON THEIR JOURNEY F R O M D A R K N E S S T O healing, F R O M F E A R T O celebration.”

And perhaps that is the most powerful part of her story. Charlisa's diagnosis may have been the drop, but it was never destined to be the end of the story. From that single point of impact came a life of service, advocacy, ministry, education, encouragement, and connection. One woman's journey became a source of strength for another. One conversation opened the door for someone to ask a question. One shared experience reminded someone else that she was not alone. And the ripples go on ... .

L A K E N O R M A N wO M A N . C O M

a taste of

FALL at Josh’s

I T A L L S TA R T E D D E C A D E S A G O with two young brothers selling homegrown cantaloupes on the side of the road. From its humble beginnings, Josh’s Farmers Market has grown into a must-see destination and, for many, their primary source for all things local: fresh produce, dairy products, seafood, baked goods, weekly ice cream flavors, seasonal treats, arts & crafts, jams, jellies, sauces, coffees, teas, and much, much more—even handcrafted Amish and Mennonite furniture.

“October is one of the most exciting times of year,” owner Josh Graham says with a smile. “We have an impressive selection of more than 30 varieties of pumpkins, gourds, and squashes. Add jumbo Indian corn, giant cornstalks, and straw bales, and you’ll find everything you need to give your home that perfect autumn look.”

Fresh-baked fall favorites are made on-site daily, including apple cider donuts, cinnamon rolls, and crispy fried apple chips. Don’t forget the candied apples and fresh-pressed apple cider!

FOR SEAFOOD LOVERS, October brings something special as well with wildcaught, in-shell oysters; and Friday through Sunday, Josh’s Weekend Seafood Market will feature fresh-caught jumbo Greentail shrimp along with the market’s amazing selection of quality seafood and meats.

Of course, no fall outing is complete without something delicious to sip and a sweet treat to top off your day. Bean Catcher Coffee will be serving up seasonal fall flavors, while Homestead Creamery will have fall-themed ice cream and eggnog.

“Starting November 18,” Josh adds,

OCTOBER 2026

“the Christmas Market will be in full swing so be sure and come see the magic of the season. There will be a huge variety of Christmas trees, wreaths, garland, and gift baskets. We will have team members who can help you measure, showcase, and package everything you need.”

Open seven days a week, Josh’s Farmers Market is located at 142 Joe V Knox Avenue in Mooresville. Reach Josh and his team at 980.635.8140, or visit www.JoshsFarmersMarket.com.

Healing Reimagined CHIROPRACTIC

ACUPUNCTURE

DR. MICHELE PUTNAM, DC

At Vitality Chiropractic & Acupuncture, Dr. Michele Putnam offers personalized care designed to help you feel your best. By taking the time to understand your unique needs, we provide a holistic approach that supports your journey to wellness.

Restoring Balance & Revitalizing Your Health

(704) 226-4444 10320 Mallard Creek Rd, Ste 210, Charlotte

vitality-chiro.com

@ vitalitych i ro cl t

20%off

YOUR FIRST SERVICE

Real Results. Real Confidence.

At Physician’s Plan, we combine advanced medical expertise with personalized care to help you achieve real, lasting results. From weight loss and hormone balance to injectables and skin treatments, our team is here to support your transformation every step of the way. MEDICAL WEIGHT LOSS & GLP-1 PROGRAMS

BOTOX, FILLERS, & SKIN REJUVENATION

P H YS I C I A N S P L A N . C O M 9601 HOLLY POINT DR. STE 202, HUNTERSVILLE, NC 28078

HORMONE REPLACEMENT THERAPY (HRT)

PERSONALIZED, PHYSICIAN-LED CARE

7 0 4 . 9 8 7. 8 4 4 6 7 LOCATIONS ACROSS NC AND SC

L A K E N O R M A N wO M A N . C O M

You Were Told It’s Normal.

But Is It?

and live with constant stress simply because that’s what modern life looks like. Environmental exposures matter too. Certain chemicals found in plastics, packaging, household products, and our environment can interact with the body’s hormone systems. That doesn’t mean we need to fear everything around us. It does mean nutrition, environment, and lifestyle deserve a place in the health conversation. This is what a root cause approach is about ... connecting the dots.

Fatigue, weight gain, hair loss, brain fog, and hormone changes may be common. But “common” doesn’t always tell us why they’re happening. Women hear it all the time:

TIRED?

You’re busy. WEIGHT SUDDENLY HARDER TO MANAGE?

Welcome to your 40s. HAIR THINNING?

Probably age.

POOR SLEEP, BRAIN FOG, LOW LIBIDO, OR MOOD CHANGES?

Must be hormones.

But here’s what many women don’t realize: the same symptom can have several different causes, and sometimes more than one is happening at the same time. Fatigue, for example, can be related to thyroid function, changing hormones, poor sleep, blood sugar regulation, nutrient deficiencies, stress,

38 O C T O B E R 2 0 2 6

At Renew Specialty Group, a comprehensive evaluation may include thyroid and hormone health, iron and nutrient status, blood sugar and metabolic markers, cardiovascular risk, sleep, nutrition, medications, lifestyle, and environmental factors based on the individual woman.

or medications. Low iron stores may contribute to fatigue or hair shedding even before a woman develops anemia. Difficulty losing weight may also be influenced by muscle loss, insulin resistance, sleep, stress, and hormonal changes. whether your

"Ask

symptoms could

It’s not about assuming every problem is hormonal or chasing every number on a lab report. It’s about asking better questions. October reminds what else women to advocate for may be worth their breast health—know investigating." your body, understand your family history, stay current with recommended screenings, and speak up when something changes. That same self-advocacy should extend to your whole body.

"Ask

Even perimenopause be connected. can be easy to miss. It can begin years before If you keep hearing “everything looks normal” menopause, and women while you still don’t feel like yourself, ask what was may notice changes in sleep, actually evaluated. Ask whether your symptoms mood, body composition, could be connected. Ask what else may be worth libido, and cognition while investigating. Because feeling “normal” isn’t the goal. they are still having periods. Feeling like yourself is. And our health doesn’t exist separately from the world LKN around us.

expert

We’ve normalized grabbing fast food because it’s quick, inexpensive, and fits into a packed schedule. Many of us eat more highly processed foods, sleep less, sit more,

R E N E W S P E C I A LT Y G R O U P

Renew Specialty Group helps women take a deeper look at what may be influencing how they feel and create a personalized plan for better health, function, and longevity. Located at 18805 W. Catawba Ave., Suite 100, in Cornelius, you can reach them at 704.612.0011 or visit www.renewhealthwellnessnc.com today.

WRITER SHANNON BALL

SPONSORED CONTENT

most good-hearted people have learned we are supposed to love unconditionally – which might sound great in a fairy tale but in reality, it’s a recipe for disaster. Good-hearted women are needed in our world, now more than ever; that goodness needs protection. And that protection is the discovery of their true worth and value.

why

To understand this, we have to understand that in childhood we all develop coping and emotional patterns to persevere and survive our environment – and we do this perfectly, for that environment.

GOODHEARTED

WOMEN

As we grow into adults, it is still those emotional patterns we use in every relationship. So, until changed, we never seek what is good for us; we seek what is familiar to our unconscious emotional mind because familiarity equals survivable; which is the sole goal of the unconscious emotional mind.

UNCONSCIOUSLY CHOOSE

abusive PARTNERS

IN AL L O F MY YE A R S OF C OA C H I N G , when it comes to relationship issues, few issues exceed emotional abuse. Most specifically, the client will ask, “I want to understand why I seem to choose the same partner, over and over.” Goodhearted women don’t choose an abusive partner consciously. No woman wakes up and says, “I want someone who will hurt me.” Yet many find themselves in a painful pattern: one harmful relationship followed by another, each one similar to the last. This repetition isn’t coincidence. It’s the selection of what feels familiar unconsciously, even when it isn’t healthy.

Dave Jones is the founder of Captive Coaching and Empowerment. For years he has helped good-hearted women overcome drama and trauma to build confidence, set healthy boundaries, and step into their power. His passion for this work is deeply personal, inspired by the struggles of the women in his own life—especially his mom and sister. He’s also the host of the weekly podcast Her Discovered Power and now shares his insights in a monthly column by the same name in Lake Norman Woman Magazine.

If a young girl perceives she’s in an environment where love’s inconsistent, affection is earned or to people-please, her emotional mind can build a blueprint: love is a reward. Sadly, that girl can even unconsciously adopt the sense that she’s not worth the love she seeks and can develop into a wonderful woman who is willing to love unconditionally, simply in hopes that someone will provide that love in return. Unfortunately, there are many people who seek those who love unconditionally – and many of those are abusers. Good-hearted women represent the largest source of prey for these abusers because

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT, EMOTIONAL DISCOVERY, & PERFORMANCE COACHING

I developed a process to help clients understand how their Primary Occurrence Of Learning (POOL) created emotional patterns that can shape their perceived worth and value. In adulthood, they have the ability to create their own new and evaluated POOL rules, establishing healthier boundaries and conditions while recognizing the strength they have always had to enforce those new rules. The patterns break when my client learns the difference between familiar and safe. When she understands that her emotional compass hasn’t been pointing toward love but toward what it has survived. When she rewrites her POOL rules, her relationships change. She stops selecting people who match her wounds and starts choosing people who match her worth.

The result is freedom, peace, empowerment, and an amazing sense of self and purpose. And that is the moment she becomes the she, she was always meant to be ... not the one her past trained her to be.

Through coaching and courses, Captive Coaching & Empowerment is committed to helping women live more empowered, intentional lives. E-mail David@captivecoachingandempowerment.com or visit www.captivecoachingandempowerment.com.

S T O P S T R E S S I N G . S TA RT C E L E B R AT I N G .

all on theLAKE

ALL-INCLUSIVE WEDDINGS

SEAMLESS CORPORATE & PRIVATE EVENTS

Developed by a locally renowned catering team with 15+ years of event expertise, offering all-inclusive lakefront weddings and events—from catering and bar to rentals, floral, cake, and coordination by Chef Alexander and his team.

COMMUNITY EVENTS

THE

E X P LO R E & R E Q U E S T YO U R D AT E

TheLandingAtLakeNorman.com

LANDING AT L A K E N O R M A N

CARE THAT GOES BEYOND PAIN RELIEF Advanced Spinal Fitness provides compassionate, results-driven chiropractic care designed to support your body at every stage of life.

Pediatrics Sports Laser Therapy Functional Nutrition

READY TO FEEL YOUR BEST?

(704) 663-5142

www.AdvancedSpinalFitness.net 444 Williamson Rd, Ste C, Mooresville

L A K E N O R M A N wO M A N . C O M

Diamonds HandSelected in Antwerp, Belgium. Just for You. Let Kim and Matt hand select your diamond on their upcoming Fall trip to the diamond capital of the world.

Make It Personal This Christmas.

phone 704.872.8941

SELECT YOUR DIAMOND IN ANTWERP FOR A CUSTOM PENDANT OR EARRINGS

address 122 W BROAD ST, STATESVILLE NC 28677

R G R E G O R YJ E W E L E R S . C O M

101

collagen

WHY WE LOSE IT & W H AT HELPS BUILD IT BACK

If you’ve noticed that your skin doesn’t feel quite as firm, smooth, or resilient as it once did, collagen is likely part of the reason. We hear the word collagen everywhere—from skincare products and supplements to lasers and injectable treatments—but what exactly is it, and can we really get it back?

What Is Collagen?

YOUNGER SKIN

Collagen is one of the main structural proteins in our skin. Think of it as part of the framework that gives skin its strength, firmness, and support. Along with elastin and other components of the skin, collagen helps maintain the smooth, resilient appearance we associate with healthy skin. As we age, collagen production gradually slows while existing collagen begins to break down. The result? Skin can become thinner and less firm, fine lines become more noticeable, and we may begin to see changes in texture, elasticity, and facial structure.

It’s Not Just Aging While collagen loss is a normal part of getting older, several factors can accelerate the process. OLDER SKIN

Sun exposure is one of the biggest. UV radiation damages collagen fibers and contributes to premature skin aging, which is one reason daily sunscreen is one of the most important things you can do for your skin. Smoking, environmental exposure, genetics, hormonal changes, nutrition, and lifestyle can also influence how our skin ages.

How Collagen Changes With Age Collagen loss doesn’t happen overnight. It is a gradual process that begins earlier than many people realize— Collagen production begins to slow, with estimates commonly suggesting a decline of approximately 1% to 1.5% per year. AGES 25–30

The changes are often subtle. You may begin noticing fine lines, slightly less “bounce” in the skin, or that your skin doesn’t recover quite as quickly as it once did. YOUR 30s

Collagen loss becomes more noticeable as both production declines and breakdown continues. Skin may appear thinner, less firm, and less elastic. YOUR 40s

Can Skincare Build Collagen? The right skincare routine is an important foundation. Daily broadspectrum sunscreen helps protect existing collagen from UV damage. Retinoids are among the most researched topical ingredients for supporting collagen production and improving fine lines and skin texture.

Research suggests women may lose up to 30% of their skin collagen during the first five years after menopause, followed by a more gradual decline in the years that follow. menopause

What Treatments Actually Stimulate Collagen? One of the most exciting areas of aesthetics is regenerative treatment. Instead of simply correcting what we see on the surface, certain treatments encourage the body’s natural healing response and stimulate new collagen production over time. For example:

44 O C T O B E R 2 0 2 6

Microneedling can improve texture, fine lines, pores, and overall skin quality. Laser resurfacing uses controlled energy to stimulate remodeling within the skin. Biostimulatory injectables stimulate the body’s own collagen production, creating gradual improvements in support and skin quality.

LKN expert MARISSA RUSSO

S K I N S C R I P T C LT

Marissa Russo is a board-certified nurse practitioner and founder of Skin Script CLT. Schedule your consultation today by calling or texting 980.350.9590, email letsglow@skinscriptclt.com, or visit www.skinscriptclt.com.

Focused on

empowerment

Helping families find safety, stability, and a path forward.

| Custody | Family Law | Estate Planning

THERESA E. VIERA & TIFFANY A. BYRD ATTORNEYS & ADVOCATES

ModernLegalNC.com 704-286-6302

CALM the mind. ELEVATE the Woman.

When your brain is stuck in patterns of anxiety, overwhelm, or burnout, it can feel like you’ve lost your edge… or even a part of who you are. At CV Neurofeedback, we help women reconnect with themselves—by supporting the one place everything starts: the brain. Neurofeedback gently trains your brain to regulate itself again— so you can feel more grounded, focused, and at ease in your own life.

RESULTS YOU’LL SEE.

CONFIDENCE YOU’LL FEEL. MARISSA RUSSO NURSE PRACTITIONER & FOUNDER

INTENTIONAL CONSULTS

We talk. We listen. We build your plan together.

ART MEETS ANATOMY

Every injection is guided by skill, not trend. Clients say they leave feeling like themselves again—just fresher.

COME BACK TO

CALM.

COME BACK TO

CLARITY. COME BACK TO

YOU.

LOYAL LONGTERM CARE BOTOX & DERMAL FILLER MICRONEEDLING

Shay Clark

HERE’S HOW WE KEEP IT REAL— & EFFECTIVE:

CHEMICAL PEELS

We grow with you—from first-time Botox to long-term maintenance.

C02 LASER TREATMENTS

FREE

CONSULTATIONS

(704)992-7561 | cvneurofeedback.com 107 Commerce Center Dr., Suite 204, Huntersville

TEXT ANYTIME

(980) 350-9590 @skinscriptclt

letsglow@skinscriptclt.com

L A K E N O R M A N wO M A N . C O M

More Than

Straight Teeth

U N D E R S TA N D I N G T H E R O L E O F O R A L S U R G E R Y I N O R T H O D O N T I C C A R E

O C T O B E R I S N AT I O N A L O R T H O D O N T I C H E A LT H M O N T H , an opportunity to celebrate

healthy smiles and raise awareness about the importance of orthodontic treatment and good oral health. While most people associate orthodontics with braces and aligners, creating a healthy, functional smile can sometimes involve more than simply moving teeth. In certain cases, an orthodontist and an oral and maxillofacial surgeon work together to prepare the teeth, mouth, and jaw for successful treatment.

What is an oral and maxillofacial surgeon? Oral and maxillofacial surgery is a specialty of dentistry recognized by the American Dental Association. To become an oral surgeon, one must first complete dental school, followed by an oral and maxillofacial surgery residency. This residency lasts four to seven years, depending on the program, and is the longest residency of any of the dental specialties.

LKN expert DR. MICHAEL FORAN | CAROLINA ORAL & FACIAL SURGERY

Dr. Michael Foran is an oral and maxillofacial surgeon and partner at Carolina Oral & Facial Surgery, located at 19910 North Cove Road in Cornelius. Connect with the entire team at 704.892.1198 or visit CAROLINAOMS.COM.

46 O C T O B E R 2 0 2 6

When does orthodontic treatment involve an oral surgeon? Oral surgeons specialize in the extraction of third molars, commonly known as wisdom teeth, as well as infected and non-fixable teeth. We also remove healthy teeth when their removal is necessary to facilitate orthodontic treatment and braces. In some patients, there simply isn’t enough room for all of the teeth to develop properly. Others may have impacted teeth, such as canines that are unable to erupt normally. In these situations, the orthodontist and oral surgeon work together to determine the best approach for the patient. Oral surgeons may also play an important role when the position or development of the jaw affects a patient’s bite and facial structure. In more complex cases, corrective jaw surgery can be part of orthodontic treatment, with the orthodontist and oral surgeon working together to improve both function and appearance.

What else do oral surgeons do? Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are devoted to performing surgery on the head and neck area, with much of this surgery involving the oral cavity. In addition to tooth removal and orthodonticrelated procedures, we manage facial trauma, dental infections and conditions affecting the jaw and other areas of the head and neck. We perform procedures ranging from repairing a small fracture of the jaw to reconstruction of complex facial injuries. Oral surgeons can also provide moderate and deep sedation in their offices as well as general anesthesia in some cases.

L A K E N O R M A N wO M A N . C O M

primary

DECISIONS

A L O O K AT T H E D E C I S I O N S M A D E D U R I N G A P R I M A R Y B AT H R O O M R E N O VAT I O N

So, you’ve decided you want to refresh your primary bathroom. Great! One decision made, dozens more to go … but it shouldn’t be overwhelming to update a space that’s so essential to our day-to-day life. First, let’s categorize the type of project you’re considering, are we simply refreshing the bathroom without moving any plumbing fixtures? We’d likely consider that a modest renovation or upfit, in which we would remove all the fits and finishes throughout the space and replace them within their current locations.

Alternatively, if we’re looking at a full renovation, in which walls and plumbing locations are being relocated, we’ve got a lot more to consider before we get to the interior finishes. When redesigning the bathroom, it is important to understand some limiting factors: which floor the renovation is taking place on and how the floor systems are framed. Shifting a toilet to the opposite side of a bathroom, for example, may not be built as easily as it is drawn. The floor joist direction could impact which way you can shift plumbing or how far lines can be moved. Similarly, if you are renovating on the second floor there’s a good chance there will be remedial work on the first floor. And then there’s the age-old question to consider—tub or no tub? Many people view freestanding tubs as a beautiful focal point and see the benefits of having a place to relax. On the other hand, we’ve had clients jump at the opportunity to eliminate a tub since they can be viewed as dust-collectors or splash pads for younger children. Removing a bathtub allows us to open the floorplan, making room for larger vanities and a grander shower, which can improve resale value.

48 O C T O B E R 2 0 2 6

Functional considerations include toilet location and sufficient storage. If we have ample floor space, we often try to create a water closet to isolate the toilet. This provides extra privacy while others can still utilize the rest of the bathroom. If floor space is tight, we may incorporate a pocket door. Functional storage is key in a bathroom, not only in the main bathroom area but also the shower. A linen tower or framed closet can serve as a great landing spot for bathroom essentials like extra towels, toilet paper, hygiene products, etc.

What some may consider the best part of a renovation, the pretty details, can vary person to person, but we often like to emphasize the look of a bathroom with light and tile. When given the opportunity, we maximize natural light in the space. Not only does it brighten the room, but it also provides a natural mood enhancement and improves the visuals within your bathroom.

LKN expert E M I LY H A N S O N

URBAN BUILDING GROUP

Emily Hanson is a Design Consultant at Urban Building Group based in Charlotte. For over 15 years, they have remodeled hundreds of the area’s finest homes. Their in-house team includes kitchen/bath designers, interior decorators, and construction professionals. Contact them today at 704.307.4606 or visit www.urbanbuildinggroup.com.

CO N

G R AT U L AT I O N S

DR . A S H L E Y COL L I NS

Lake Norman Woman magazine proudly congratulates Dr. Ashley Collins, whose extraordinary compassion, leadership, and selfless commitment to others truly embody what it means to be a Woman of the Year. From caring for her patients like family to donating a kidney to save a patient’s life, Dr. Collins leads with a generosity that inspires us all. Her story represents the heart of the Lake Norman Woman of the Year Award, celebrating women who make a lasting difference in the lives of others and reminding our community of the power of compassion, courage, and service.

Canopy Housing Foundation has established the Cristina Grossu Biffle Memorial Award to honor her life of service to her community. The award will recognize a nonprofit actively engaged in addressing housing and children’s needs, issues that she deeply cared about. In 2024, the Foundation presented Cristina with its Humanitarian Award, in recognition of her monumental work following the disaster of Hurricane Helene.

ANNOUNCING THE

CRISTINA GROSSU BIFFLE MEMORIAL AWARD

If you would like to join us in honoring Cristina’s memory, please support the continuation of this effort through CanopyHousingFoundation.org. For further questions, please email foundation@canopyrealtors.com.

The success of last month’s Woman of the Year Gala celebrated these remarkable women while giving back to Foster Love Adopt Repeat, supporting its mission to help children and families touched by foster care and adoption.

Y OUR S POT FOR EVERY T HIN G HA PPEN I NG AROU N D T HE L AKE SIGN UP FOR THE LIVE WORK PLAY NEWSLETTER

WSIC News is proud to be the Affiliated Member of the Canopy Multiple Listing Service L A K E N O R M A N wO M A N . C O M

AN ESTATE OF MIND

FOUR IN A SERIES OF SIX COLUMNS

I have developed FIVE ESTATE PLANNING PRINCIPLES during my 44 years in practice:

LEAVE YOUR LEGACY M E G D. G O L D S T E I N , AT TO R N E Y-AT- L AW

MANY ATTORNEYS BELIEVE IT IS INAPPROPRIATE to raise the issue of charitable giving during the estate planning process. These attorneys believe they are being judgmental toward their clients if they raise the option of charitable giving at death.

I, on the other hand, make legacy planning an important part of the estate planning discussion. At the outset, in the initial letter and forms sent to my new clients, I ask them if they want to make testamentary charitable gifts and what charities they are inclined to favor. As the estate planning attorney, it is my role to raise the issues that my clients do not always think about. Life insurance, Individual Retirement Accounts, and qualified pension and 401(k) benefits can all be easy ways to promote charitable goals at death. Designating a charity as beneficiary simply requires completing and filing a beneficiary designation form—no attorney is necessary. Retirement assets can be especially beneficial for charitable giving because taxable IRAs and qualified retirement benefits may be subject to income taxation when received by children, reducing the amount they ultimately receive. However, when these assets are received by a charity, they are not subject to income taxation, meaning 100% of the benefits are available to promote your charitable interests.

ONE

TWO

First, most clients need and want to provide sufficient liquidity at death to maintain their surviving spouse and possibly lineal descendants in a standard of living similar to the standard that the family enjoyed when the patriarchs and matriarchs were living. If so, this must be satisfied, even to the exclusion of charity.

Second, my clients have obligations to their children—to love their children, to provide their children with structure, to provide their children with the necessities of life, and to provide them with opportunity. But providing an inheritance to children is not an obligation.

THREE

FOUR

Third, your charitable passions are likely not your children’s charitable passions. Yes, you may believe that you take care of your charitable interests during your lifetime but need not provide those same charities at your death. But unless you provide for your favored charitable interests at death, it is possible that those particular charities will not be supported by your family after your death. If you want to promote your charitable passions, you need to continue to support those charitable desires through charitable planning.

Fourth, I strongly recommend that your charitable bequests NOT be made to operating funds. Contributions to operating funds may be consumed or exhausted within a short period after your death. Instead, leave your charitable bequest to your favored charity’s endowment fund. The income from the fund may be added to the charity’s annual operating fund, but the bequest will be held in perpetuity and will produce income for your favored charity for generations to come.

FIVE Fifth, I believe everyone can be a philanthropist, not just the wealthy but all of us. Even if you have a small estate, you have the means to make a difference when you die. We can all change the world. Charitable giving at death can make it possible for each one of us to make a profound difference in the lives of others well after we are gone.

Meg D. Goldstein, Attorney-at-Law, has 45 years of extensive legal experience and is well-versed in estate planning, trust and estate administration, fiduciary relationships, charitable giving, and the formation and continuation of business and charitable entities. Her priority and passion are to ensure that each client's specific needs and desires are addressed in a well-presented plan to limit future controversies between family members and business associates.

MG OL DL AW.C OM | | 70 4 .75 6 . 3 62 6

The first chapter of forever starts with the perfect dress N E W LO C AT I O N !

9526 Rich Hatchet Road, Huntersville, NC

SERVICES WE OFFER: - BRIDAL DRESSES - MOTHER OF THE BRIDE DRESSES - TUXEDO AND SUIT RENTALS - WEDDING GOWN PRESERVATION

(704) 491- 2197 W W W. B L U E B I R D B R I D A L . C O M

AIRWAY • FUNCTION • ESTHETICS

Your smile should not just look better. It should help you breathe, function, and thrive. “Dr. Chichetti is an absolute genius in dentistry and is the kindest, most thoughtful doctor. He gave me the most beautiful smile for the first time in my life.” - CINDY B.

704-728-0250

SCAN TO TAKE THE HARMONY SMILE QUIZ

theharmonysmile.com 11208 Statesville Road #215, Huntersville L A K E N O R M A N wO M A N . C O M

Excel! DON'T JUST COPE,

Psychiatry Therapy Integrative Mental Health Care

. PSYCHIATRY . SPRAVATO . THERAPY . INTEGRATIVE

PERSONALIZED CARE. LONGER VISITS. A T E A M T H AT C O L L A B O R AT E S WITH YOU!

HEALTH COACHING

TELEHEALTH FOLLOW-UP VISITS ARE AVAILABLE WHEN CLINICALLY APPROPRIATE

WE ACCEPT MOST COMMERCIAL BCBS, AETNA AND STATE EMPLOYEE HEALTH PLANS

(704) 457-9292 10225 HICKORYWOOD HILL AVE, SUITE B, HUNTERSVILLE, NC 28078

WWW.EXCELPSYCHIATRIC.COM

success STORY

THERESA VIERA MODERN LEGAL

Growing up in a home where domestic violence was present, Theresa recalls initially believing that mental and emotional abuse, physical violence, and financial manipulation were simply part of marriage and family life. At 9 years old, she witnessed her father physically abuse her brother as he tried to protect their mother. “I remember holding the towel,” she shares, “that I used to clean up after my brother’s injuries, and I knew that something had to change.” Her family’s eventual escape from the violence was neither quick nor easy. By the time she was around 12, Theresa had already learned a lesson that would stay with her: leaving an abusive relationship is often far more complicated than simply walking away.

you’re

NOT

ALONE

CTOBER IS DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

Awareness Month, a time to shine a light on an issue that often remains hidden in the dark, behind closed doors. Domestic violence is not limited to physical violence; it can involve emotional abuse, intimidation, financial control, manipulation, and other forms of misuse of power. As the founder and managing principal of Modern Legal, a Charlotte-based family law firm, Theresa Viera has built her career helping families navigate some of life’s most difficult moments. But her understanding of domestic violence and the family court system began long before she ever stepped into a courtroom as an attorney. It began in childhood.

54 O C T O B E R 2 0 2 6

That attorney’s compassion and confidence went beyond making an impression on both mother and daughter, it planted the seed for Theresa’s future.

Her mother’s ability to find a lawyer ultimately became a turning point. That attorney’s compassion and confidence went beyond making an impression on both mother and daughter, it planted the seed for Theresa’s future.

Years later, after attending George Washington University and earning her law degree from the University of North Carolina School of Law, Theresa became the first lawyer in her family. She chose family law in part because she understood firsthand what it feels like when the intimacy of your family collides with the cold, hard reality of the legal system. Today, Theresa uses her experience to help clients find solutions through negotiation, mediation, collaborative law and, when necessary, litigation. Her goal is not only to guide people through legal proceedings, but to empower and protect them during an incredibly vulnerable chapter of their lives. Theresa adds: “My story is a reminder of how complicated abuse can be and how fear, financial dependence, and concern for the children can keep someone trapped. But it is also an example of how love, faith, and courage always win. Sometimes, finding a way forward begins with one person saying, ‘You deserve better, and you don’t have to face this alone.’”

WRITER LESLIE OGLE

NEW MEMBER PROMOTION

Experience a new way to enjoy life on the water with our exclusive end-of-season New Member Promotion! Available for a limited time on slips at Safe Harbor Peninsula Yacht Club

Slips for vessels 25'–45� | Fuel at our cost | Event spaces Swimming pool with outdoor bar & grill | Waterside restaurant & more!

LEARN MORE & CO N TAC T U S

L A K E N O R M A N wO M A N . C O M