what’s inside 13 Natural Options Acupuncture: From Myth to Medicine Through the Generations Parkinson’s Can Start Quietly. Let’s Talk About It. 24 Fresh Cuisine Eat, Drink and Be Healthy: Bubbly Without the Buzz 19 Desert Events Natural Wellness Expo Free Consumer Day 25 Fitness Why Pickleballers 40+ Should Be Strength Training 18 Medical News Medicine: Remembering Your Why 3 http://www.deserthealthnews.com/ November/December 2026 Continued on page 7 Health & Beauty East Meets West for Facial Rejuvenation 20 Integrative Medicine Superfoods to Power Up Your DNA 15 Learn more on page 14 Meet Edith Jones-Poland, M.D. Family and Integrative Care Physician Looking for an integrative primary care physician? For more than four decades, the Betty Ford Center in Rancho Mirage has been a destination for people from around the world seeking discreet addiction treatment. Hidden behind a lush perimeter of green hedges, the facility was designed to protect the privacy of celebrities and those who can afford its world-class programs. But as stigma around addiction and behavioral health softens and conversations open up, so do the doors to this quintessential valley treasure. Now, as the iconic campus undergoes a significant transformation, its leaders are envisioning something broader: a place where the greater Coachella Valley community can also come for education, support, recovery resources and connection. The expansion is about much more than buildings. It reflects an evolution in how addiction and recovery are understood and treated: less as a single episode of care and more as a lifelong journey requiring ongoing support, mental health services, family involvement and community. In 2014, the Betty Ford Center merged with the Hazelden Foundation to form the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation, now with treatment centers in every region of the country. “We want to be a much longer-term resource than just what people think of as the traditional 28 or 30 days,” says David Wilke, MBA, chief external affairs officer for the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation. This approach builds on Betty Ford’s Lifelong Recovery Initiative, based on the idea that recovery doesn't end when formal treatment does. A recent 12-step-based retreat on the Rancho Mirage campus drew 60 participants from California and around the country, demonstrating the appetite for programs that allow people to reconnect, strengthen their recovery and support one another long after initial treatment ends. Central to that vision will be a new Recovery Community Center which will be open to people well beyond those receiving residential treatment. Plans include a coffee shop and bookstore open to the public, 12-step meetings, workshops, educational programs, retreats and other recovery-focused activities. Importantly, participants will not need to be Betty Ford patients or alumni. Someone who received treatment elsewhere, or who has never received treatment but wants to learn more for themselves or a loved one, will be welcome. PEACE is always here. BETTY FORD By Lauren Del Sarto Embraces Community + Integrative Care With so much unrest in the world, it can be hard to find deep inner peace. But peace is always with us. We simply have to stop and take time to absorb it. How do we absorb peace? It starts with becoming quiet and still. This timely advice comes from meditation teacher Jeff Warren, author of the New York Times best-seller “Meditation for Fidgety Skeptics.” Warren often notes how his ADHD allows him to relate to those who find stillness challenging and uncomfortable. Absorbing peace is the same as being peace, he says. So just be. Slow down and really be with the slowness, be with the quiet, be with the stillness. Only then, he adds, can we free our minds of worry and tune into “the nourishing background of life.” And that is where peace can always be found. Nature can provide our greatest inspiration. From a quiet mountain trail to a butterfly-filled backyard, Mother Nature’s awe-inspiring simplicity captivates our senses, transports us to the present and nourishes our souls. Even a few mindful moments outdoors can remind us that nature only gives, without asking for anything in return but our attention. “Even in the middle of our busy lives and our busy minds, we can stop and absorb small pockets of peace and quiet and stillness,” Warren reminds us. We don’t have to wait. We simply have to step out of our own heads. “There is so much good in this place called ‘the Now.’ Letting ourselves just be, with whatever is here, makes us more receptive to these subtle nourishments.” Restoring our souls with life’s natural abundance is how we absorb peace. And it is always here, regardless of what is going on in our lives or the world. Remember that this holiday season. You’ll find peace in stillness. It’s waiting for you with nourishment and wonder found only in the present moment.
www.humanauthealth.com/c/palm-desert www.DesertHealthNews.com November/December 2026 Desert Health® The Valley's Leading Resource for Health and Wellness 2 Lauren Del Sarto Founder/Publisher An Independent Publication www.DesertHealthNews.com lauren@deserthealthnews.com • (760) 238.0245 @DesertHealthNews Distribution: Desert Health is distributed at 350+ locations throughout the Coachella Valley, including but not limited to grocery stores, doctors’ offices, cafes and restaurants, spas, fitness centers and clubhouses. Please call for delivery to your retail location. Desert Health® is a California Corporation. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form, in whole or in part, without the written consent of the Publisher is prohibited. The opinions and views expressed in these pages are those of the writer or persons interviewed and not necessarily those of Desert Health®. Desert Health® hereby expressly limits its liability resulting from any and all misprints, errors and/or inaccuracies any advertisement or editorial may contain. This publication is printed on paper sourced from sustainable forests and farms. Thank you to the Desert Health® team and all our marketing partners! Home delivery subscriptions available. Call (760) 238.0245. Get free delivery to your place of business. MADE POSSIBLE BY OUR ADVERTISERS THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING THEIR BUSINESSES! *Photo by Lani Garfield Lauren Del Sarto* FOUNDER/ PUBLISHER Trish Lounsbury DISTRIBUTION Benjamin Katz WEB MASTER benjaminkatzcreative.com Doris Steadman A LITTLE OF EVERYTHING Carlotta Rinke* MD, MBA CONTENT EDITOR James Thomas DISTRIBUTION Heather McKay GRAPHIC DESIGN mkaydesign.com Rebecca Plevin GUEST EDITOR REGENERATIVE · FUNCTIONAL · AESTHETICS · LONGEVITY Feel 18 at 80. Well, perhaps not quite. But with stem cell therapy, shockwave and regenerative medicine, we can move you a couple of decades in the right direction. And with advanced diagnostics, functional medicine, hormone optimization and hyperbaric oxygen, we intend to add a few more on the other end ;) Feel younger. Grow older. Humanaut is introducing a brand new model of healthcare to the Coachella Valley. Opening on El Paseo this fall. Secure your Founding Membership for only $49. Limited availability. SCAN TO RESERVE 73010 El Paseo, Suite 1, Palm Desert 760-208-4011 humanauthealth.com/c/palm-desert Joy Finding I recently attended a class on the Mindfulness of Aging with Dr. Patty Van Santen of Circe Healthcare Solutions. While I gained many insights, one really hit home: finding joy eases aging. At 61, I have found that joy, once again, in a beautiful mare named Elle. In the March/April edition, my intro was entitled “Follow Your Heart.” I wrote of selling a second business after two years to make space to return to my lifelong passion. Since then, I have been searching for the perfect partner and finally found this beautiful girl in August. She is my “heart horse” and my greatest joy. She lives in a beautiful barn with big green pastures ten minutes away. Twice a day, I am there feeding, mucking her stall, brushing, riding, training and giving unlimited kisses. It makes me feel like a kid again, and I couldn’t be happier. The serene setting, quiet mornings, stunning sunrises and time in nature nourish me with deep peace, contentment and gratitude (p.1). When was the last time you experienced deep, heartfelt joy? As you reflect on that moment, you can feel the youthful enthusiasm true joy brings. Finding joy eases aging. In our holiday edition, we have many articles to inspire joy: Dr. Amy’s “Life Lessons from the Fairway” (p.9); Dr. Patty’s “Home for the Holidays” (p.10); Alison Mullins’ “Joy in the Other Pocket” (p.10); Dr. Joe’s review of “The Healing Power of Resilience” (p.17); and “A Widow’s Words of Healing” with Bryna Blum (p.22), to name a few. My wish for you this holiday season is that you create your greatest joy and discover your deepest peace. They are waiting for you. Always. From my heart to yours ~
Medical News The Valley's Leading Resource for Health and Wellness 3 Millions of Americans don’t realize that obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is disrupting their nights and affecting their health. Sleep apnea is more than snoring, and understanding this common condition could change the way you think about sleep and help protect your long-term health. If you go to bed exhausted, sleep for eight hours, and still wake up tired, the problem may not be how long you sleep; it may be the quality, which can be significantly affected by whether you’re breathing properly. The silent (or not so silent) threat. Sleep apnea occurs when the upper airway repeatedly narrows or collapses during sleep, interrupting breathing and reducing oxygen levels. The brain briefly arouses the body to restore airflow, sometimes hundreds of times throughout the night. These interruptions can prevent restorative sleep because each one resets the sleep cycle to the beginning. This inhibits the restorative phase of sleep, leaving you tired in the morning. According to the American Heart Association, approximately 34% of middle-aged men and 17% of middle-aged women meet diagnostic criteria for OSA, yet many remain undiagnosed.1 Warning signs. Loud snoring is a familiar symptom most of us recognize. Other warning signs include gasping or choking during sleep, witnessed breathing pauses, morning headaches, dry mouth, persistent fatigue, difficulty concentrating and excessive daytime sleepiness. Women may experience less obvious symptoms, including insomnia, headaches and fatigue, making sleep apnea easier to overlook. Elevated risks. Untreated sleep apnea places repeated stress on the cardiovascular system. The American Heart Association reports that OSA is present in approximately 40–80% of people with certain cardiovascular conditions, including hypertension, heart failure, coronary artery disease, atrial fibrillation and stroke.2 It is also associated with increased risks of heart attack, stroke, irregular heart rhythms, type 2 diabetes and motor vehicle accidents related to daytime sleepiness.3 Not every person with sleep apnea will develop these conditions, but they reinforce why diagnosis and treatment matter. Diagnosis. A sleep study measures breathing disturbances and oxygen levels to determine whether sleep apnea is present and how severe it is. Depending on your symptoms and medical history, testing may be performed at home or in a sleep laboratory. A qualified medical provider interprets the results and recommends appropriate treatment. Treatment options. The good news is that sleep apnea is treatable. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) remains a highly effective treatment that uses gentle www.DesertHealthNews.com November/December 2026 In the Coachella Valley. Choose the When comparing 2024 Medicare.gov data from Coachella Valley hospitals. In an emergency, every minute matters. At Desert Care Network, we’re committed to delivering quality care – fast. With three locations in the Desert, we’re here, close to home, with the medical care you need when you need it most. And that’s just the beginning. • Desert Regional Medical Center in Palm Springs • JFK Memorial Hospital in Indio • Hi-Desert Medical Center in Joshua Tree Sounding the Sirens on Sleep Apnea By Rene Dell’Acqua, DDS Sleep apnea increases health risks but often goes undiagnosed. Continued on page 14 Publisher’s Note: Dr. Holmes is a leading advocate of cryoablation (cancer freezing) for breast cancer, the minimally invasive treatment I chose eight years ago in lieu of a double mastectomy. Holmes’ two decades of work contributed significantly to the Food and Drug Administration’s first approval of cryoablation for breast cancer (Desert Health July/Aug 2026), but not without significant resistance to change. This message appeared in his October newsletter and is a good reminder to all practitioners. It is reprinted with Holmes’ permission. In September, I had the honor of delivering the keynote lecture, "Breast Cancer Cryoablation: From Principle to Practice," at the inaugural Breast Radiology Symposium in Campinas, Brazil. I owe sincere thanks to two young breast surgeons, Drs. Roberto Giordano and Vanessa Sanvido, who, in the face of considerable obstacles, are leading the way in bringing breast cancer cryoablation to Brazil. My presentation traced more than two decades as a breast cryoablation researcher and advocate. But I chose to begin with the "elephant in the room": the tension between innovation and resistance to change, which nearly every innovator meets upon stepping beyond the boundaries of the current standard of care. Having walked this road throughout my career, I offered four principles, meant as much for innovators as for those who doubt them: Always remember your why. Why did you choose medicine? Why this specialty or subspecialty? Our answers will differ, yet most of us entered this profession with the same desire: to make a meaningful difference. Returning to that purpose restores the conviction and passion we need when colleagues counsel us against venturing beyond the standard of care. My own "why" has never wavered: to expand the options available to women with breast cancer while keeping quality of life at the center of their care. That purpose has guided my pioneering work and advocacy in oncoplastic surgery, intraoperative radiotherapy, lymph node–sparing surgery and cryoablation. Listen with obligation. To listen with empathy is essential. To listen with obligation asks more of us. It carries us past heartfelt understanding to a responsibility to act: to respond to what we have heard, to seek solutions and to meet the needs that existing approaches leave unanswered. This is where innovation begins. Patient-centered care is about patients. Without a meaningful range of treatment options, patient-centered care risks becoming little more than a slogan, one that in practice yields to doctor-centered care. To honor our patients is to give them a real voice in choosing care that reflects their goals, their values and their preferences. Embrace proportionality. Modern breast cancer care is moving steadily toward the least intensive intervention that achieves the patient's treatment goals. That path demands nuance and balance. Proportionality allows us to escalate or de-escalate treatment according to each patient's tumor biology, tumor anatomy, breast anatomy and personal preferences. Proportionality thrives where options abound. Innovation is rarely easy. But when it is sustained by a clear why, inspired by listening that compels action, guided by proportionality and grounded in the needs of the patient, it can change not only how we treat people with cancer, but how we think about cancer care itself. Dr. Holmes is a breast cancer surgeon and researcher with Adventist Health Glendale. For more information and to inquire about current cryoablation for breast cancer clinical trials, visit www.cryoablation.com. Medicine: Remembering Your “Why” By Dennis R. Holmes, MD, FACS
www.eisenhowerhealth.org/awards www.cvvim.org This past summer, Eisenhower Health launched its first Discovery and Immersion Program for high school students. This eight-session program began in July, and before we knew it, it was time to return to school. Students enrolled in the Career Technical Education Pathways program across the Coachella Valley went through a competitive interview process and were ultimately matched with one of Eisenhower's many departments. Five Health and Environmental Academy of Learning (HEAL) students passed this interview process and were able to immerse themselves in the amazing work Eisenhower offers. Each Tuesday, students gathered in the Annenberg Center for Health Sciences building, listening to professionals tell inspiring stories of how they came to work in the healthcare industry. On Thursdays, the students spent four hours shadowing in their matched departments. One of our HEAL students, Jeraldine López Ortiz, spoke often of her dream to work with kids and was able to shadow staff in the labor, delivery, recovery and postpartum/neonatal intensive care units. Jeraldine enjoyed seeing the family dynamics and the raw emotions of people in the hospital. She also witnessed how gracefully the nurses handled themselves in high-stress environments. Her valuable experience working with kids and their parents inspired her to get more involved in assisting children in the community. She volunteered to help elementary schools with hearing and hearing tests. It took her enthusiasm for assisting kids to new heights. She later served as the Junior Upcoming Medical Professionals (JUMP) representative for Cathedral City High School’s HOSA – Future Health Professionals chapter, where she helped coordinate events with middle school HOSA chapters and communicated opportunities for the younger generation. Her ability to connect with healthcare professionals showed her future possibilities and how she can contribute to the well-being of children. This is just one example of how Eisenhower is shaping the future of health professionals and positively affecting students across the Coachella Valley. Their interactive programs don’t stop there. This fall, students interested in allied health, nursing and pre-med careers will have the opportunity to learn more about each at a lecture series at the hospital. Eisenhower will also offer internships to seniors seriously considering careers in healthcare. Cathedral City High School’s HEAL Academy is extremely excited to continue working with Eisenhower. The learning opportunities they provide have motivated many students to continue their education in healthcare and we are grateful for this opportunity. Mariana Macias-Gonzalez is a senior in the HEAL Academy at Cathedral City High School. For more information on these programs, visit www.OneFutureCV.org. www.DesertHealthNews.com November/December 2026 Medical News The Valley's Leading Resource for Health and Wellness 4 Students celebrate completion of the Eisenhower Discovery & Immersion Program with their advisors. www.capcomts.com www.capcomts.com HIPAA Compliance Backup/Disaster Recovery Network Design & Support Cyber Security Help Desk Support and more! It is our mission to ensure your business success through effective management, continuity and stability of all your technology needs. CapCom has a 25-year track record of innovative work, creating complete IT systems and solutions for companies in the healthcare sector. CapComTS.com 760.424.2216 info@CapComTS.com CapCom / Desert Health / one-eighth-page horizontal ad / size: 4.875” W x 3.562” H U.S. News & World Report has ranked Eisenhower Medical Center as the #1 “Best Hospital” for the region! This honor reflects the hard work and dedication our care teams and hospital workers put in, day after day. We’re also proud to be recognized as #1 in the region in orthopedic care, and for exceptional care in 16 additional specialties, surgeries and procedures. • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair • Aortic Valve Surgery • Colon Cancer Surgery • Gynecological Cancer Surgery • Heart Bypass Surgery • Hip Fracture • Hip Replacement • Knee Replacement • Leukemia, Lymphoma & Myeloma • Lung Cancer • Maternity • Pacemaker Implantation • Prostate Cancer Surgery • Spinal Fusion • Stroke • TAVR We will continue to raise the bar for high-quality care and look forward to another year of keeping our community healthy and well. Learn more about our accreditations and recognitions at EisenhowerHealth.org/Awards. The Region’s #1 Hospital Care that puts patients FIRST. This season of giving... Share the Gift of Hope and Health Your support helps provide free healthcare and essential support services to uninsured and low-income adults throughout our community. Donate Today! CVVIM.org Shaping Future Health Professionals By Student Mariana Macias-Gonzalez
In my former career, I worked for a chamber of commerce, where networking was part of everyday life. I watched business owners, nonprofit leaders and community members build relationships, exchange ideas and create opportunities simply by showing up and speaking with one another. But I noticed someone was missing: people under 30, our future workforce. I didn’t feel it was due to a lack of ability or ambition. Quite the opposite. I wondered whether technology, changing communication habits and fewer opportunities for face-to-face interaction meant young people weren’t getting enough practice walking into a room, introducing themselves, making eye contact, listening and building relationships. It felt important to me and in February of 2020, I founded Konnections. Then came the pandemic. Talk about timing! Suddenly my concerns about technology isolation were compounded by the physical isolation we were all experiencing. What began as a workforce concern soon became part of a much larger conversation about health. Research shows that strong social relationships and meaningful human connections are linked to better health and well-being, while social isolation and loneliness increase the risk of serious physical and mental health concerns. For me, that makes bringing people back into the room about much more than exchanging business cards. Through Konnections, young people we call Konnectees learn and practice introductions, eye contact, listening, conversation and follow-up. Then they take those skills into real-world community environments: ribbon cuttings, mixers, nonprofit events and volunteer opportunities. They don’t do it alone. Our Konnections Champions are businesses and community members who help open those doors, create opportunities and encourage Konnectees to make introductions and share their experiences. The shared goal is to help young people feel comfortable participating in their community. But the benefits aren’t one-directional. The different generations learn from one another. A young person may walk into an event nervous, make an uncomfortable first introduction and share a little uneasy laughter. A few conversations later, they’re standing taller, asking questions and making introductions themselves. Meanwhile, a Champion has the opportunity to mentor, listen and experience meaningful connection. We call these community environments “neutral turf.” They aren’t at a school, home or someone’s workplace. Everyone may feel a little uncomfortable and that’s intentional. Moving beyond that comfort zone provides opportunities to practice confidence, communication, empathy and belonging. Medical News The Valley's Leading Resource for Health and Wellness 5 www.DesertHealthNews.com November/December 2026 Continued on page 16 Krause provides encouragement to students at a community event. www.palmspringsendodontics.com www.ranchomirageendodontics.com www.palmspringsendodontics.com www.ranchomirageendodontics.com www.jordanptcenter.com www.palmspringsendodontics.com www.ranchomirageendodontics.com Laser Endodontic Treatment Laser energy enhances the effect of disinfectants used in the canals, further eliminating bacterial infection. Ozone Therapy for Endodontics An advanced preventative therapy that fights off bacteria and pathogens which typically cause most oral health problems. Cone Beam CT Scan Cutting-edge 3D imaging of teeth, nerve pathways, soft tissue and bone that allows for a more accurate diagnosis and treatment of dental infections. Surgical Microscope Endodontics require significant attention to detail and precision. This advanced dental microscope is instrumental in providing the best outcomes for our clients. RanchoMirageEndodontics.com PalmSpringsEndodontics.com Offering Biological Root Canal Therapy for Optimal Oral and Whole Body Health We use advanced technology and biological techniques to greatly reduce ambient bacteria and protect the overall health of our patients. Eddie Al Halasa, DDS, MSD Board Certified Endodontist Rita J. Hung, DMD, MPD, MSD Board Eligible Endodontist Advanced Technology Root canal therapy • Endodontic retreatment Apicoectomy • IV and oral sedation dentistry RANCHO MIRAGE (760) 779-0350 71780 San Jacinto Dr., Ste. B3 Rancho Mirage PALM SPRINGS (760) 318-0101 558 S. Paseo Dorotea, Ste. 9 Palm Springs PERSONALIZED CARE FOR THE ENTIRE COACHELLA VALLEY Cancer has a way of touching nearly every family, sometimes more than once. Many of us in the Coachella Valley have sat in a waiting room with a parent, a spouse or a friend, hoping for good news that didn’t always come. What if some of those diagnoses could have been caught earlier, simply by understanding a person’s genetic risk ahead of time? That question sits at the heart of a new area of research now available right here in Palm Springs: genetic cancer screening. DPMG Clinical Research is currently enrolling participants in a study evaluating genetic screening approaches designed to identify inherited risk factors for certain cancers, including breast, ovarian, colorectal and prostate cancer, among others. Unlike a standard screening test that looks for cancer that already exists, genetic screening looks at the blueprint itself, searching for inherited mutations that raise the likelihood of developing cancer over a lifetime. Armed with that knowledge, patients and their physicians can make more informed decisions about surveillance, prevention, and, when necessary, earlier intervention. This kind of research matters because our understanding of hereditary cancer risk has advanced faster than most people realize. A decade ago, genetic testing was largely reserved for patients with a strong family history or those already diagnosed with cancer. Today, researchers are working to determine how broader, more accessible genetic screening might help identify at-risk individuals long before any family history becomes apparent, potentially saving lives through earlier detection and prevention strategies tailored to each person's unique genetic profile. I want to be clear about what participation involves, because I know these conversations can bring up real emotions. Joining this study involves a saliva sample and communication with our research team. There is no financial compensation offered but you do get the results of the genetic test at no cost to you. I also recognize that genetic information can feel deeply personal, even vulnerable. Questions about privacy, insurance implications, and how results might affect family members are common. United States federal protections exist specifically to guard against misuse of genetic data in employment and health insurance decisions, and our study protocols are reviewed by independent ethics boards to ensure participant rights and privacy are protected at every step. Palm Springs has long been a community that values wellness and looking ahead, whether that means our commitment to outdoor living or our embrace of preventive health. Genetic cancer screening research is a natural extension of that spirit. In order to get this genetic test, you must currently have a diagnosis of cancer or previously had any form of cancer. Only adults who are 65 or older are eligible to participate at this time. If you have a family history of cancer or simply want to better understand your own genetic risk, I invite you to reach out to DPMG Clinical Research to learn whether this study might be right for you. Every genetic discovery that helps prevent or catch cancer earlier begins with someone willing to ask, “What can we learn?” I hope our community will consider being part of that answer. Dr. Tran is a principal investigator at DPMG Clinical Research in Palm Springs. To inquire about study participation, call DPMG at (760) 459.2193 or email info@dpmgcr.com. To learn more, visit www.dpmgcr.com. Local Study Accepting Participants Genetic cancer screening for earlier detection By Andy Tran, MD Reaching Beyond the Comfort Zone By Kimberly Krause
www.drmayakato.com www.DesertHealthNews.com November/December 2026 Medical News The Valley's Leading Resource for Health and Wellness 6 www.desertvascularassociates.com Personalized quality care delivered with compassion and integrity Special Interests: Varicose Veins/Venous Insufficiency Carotid Artery Disease • Aortic Aneurysms Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD) Dialysis Access • Chemotherapy Port Insertion 760.902.1511 74000 Country Club Drive, Ste. G-3 Palm Desert Accepting new patients and most major insurance plans “If I could give Dr. Gasparyan a thousand stars I would... even a million.” — Jay B. Anna Gasparyan, MD, FACS Vascular Surgeon DesertVascularAssociates.com Normal Vein Valves Diseased Vein Valves Schedule Your Consultation 760-592-7310 36867 Cook St., Ste 103 Palm Desert, CA 92211 | drmayakato.com ApexRF is a breakthrough 15-minute, non-invasive treatment that uses gentle radiofrequency energy to restore blood flow and improve male performance. It’s effective for ED and equally beneficial for men who simply want to feel more confident and connected. Stimulates natural blood flow Treats ED safely and effectively Boosts performance, size, and sensation Restores intimacy and confidence No pills, injections, or surgery THE GENTLE TREATMENT FOR A STRONGER CONNECTION Dr. B. Maya Kato is proud to be the exclusive provider of InMode APEX™ RF in the Coachella Valley. Mention "Desert Health News" for special pricing - $600 off package of 6 treatments! LIMITED TIME SPECIAL OFFER Modern healthcare is shifting toward therapies that help the body to repair itself. Regenerative medicine focuses on renewing damaged cells and tissues to restore healthier, more youthful function. One technology emerging as a forerunner in regenerative medicine is radiofrequency (RF) energy, a gentle form of low-energy electromagnetic waves. RF delivers controlled, soothing warm energy deep into targeted areas, triggering the body's natural cellular repair mechanisms. Its uses are wide and varied, and current applications include pain management, cancer therapy, cardiology, facial rejuvenation and even erectile dysfunction. Turning back the clock with facial rejuvenation In the face, aging is mainly caused by volume loss, which can cause the skin envelope to collapse and wrinkles to develop. RF energy acts as a biological wake-up call, triggering a healing response that stimulates fibroblasts, the specialized cells responsible for producing fresh collagen and elastin. This process doesn't just provide a temporary lift; it actively rebuilds the skin’s underlying matrix. Over time, tissues become firmer, wrinkles soften, and skin elasticity is improved. The warming effect also dilates blood vessels, bringing oxygen and vital nutrients to the cells. The result is a natural, youthful glow from true cellular renewal, without surgical cuts or synthetic fillers. Various RF delivery systems exist, from non-invasive to minimally invasive techniques. One of the most popular procedures, microneedling RF, is strongly supported by physicians and extremely popular among celebrities for its skin-tightening benefits. For patients who desire completely natural rejuvenation, RF microneedling is an excellent option and can be combined with other biostimulators such as poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) for even greater benefit. Improved intimacy for men of all ages The same regenerative principles are quietly revolutionizing men's health. The gentle thermal energy promotes neovascularization, the formation of new, healthy blood vessels in the penis. It also rejuvenates the existing smooth muscle tissue and improves blood flow dynamics. This promotes improved performance in the bedroom, even for men in their 30s and 40s. As men age, aging blood vessels in the pelvic region can result in poor blood flow, resulting in erectile dysfunction. RF energy offers a long-term, restorative alternative to vasodilating pills. By repairing the root physical causes of erectile dysfunction, RF therapy helps restore natural spontaneity and performance, giving men back their confidence through genuine biological healing. Natural recovery from the inside out By bridging modern physics and cellular biology, RF energy offers a safe, medicationfree solution. Whether restoring a youthful complexion or revitalizing intimate health, it works in harmony with the body, giving your cells the precise boost needed to rebuild, restore and heal naturally. Dr. Kato is a board-certified otolaryngologist and the founder and medical director of Aesthetic Art. She has extensive experience in surgical and non-surgical rejuvenation procedures and can be reached at (760) 610.5558. Learn more at www.drmayakato.com. Sources: 1) Ponce, S., Rakic, N., Hernandez, B., & Khera, M. (2026). The use of radiofrequency in the treatment of erectile dysfunction. The Journal of Sexual Medicine, 23(5), qdag122; 2) Zhou, X., Zhang, Y., & Liu, H. (2025). Noninsulated microneedle radiofrequency for skin rejuvenation: A histological, transcriptomic and clinical study. Lasers in Surgery and Medicine, 57(5), 380–392. ReGEN Med: Radiofrequency Energy Healing from the inside out By B. Maya Kato, MD
www.alanoninthedesert.com That openness extends to Hazelden Betty Ford’s family and children’s programs. Families do not need to have a loved one receiving treatment on the Rancho Mirage campus to participate. “If your loved one is going to care in another treatment center and that treatment center doesn’t provide those resources, we welcome you here,” Wilke says. Integration for whole person care Hazelden Betty Ford is increasingly treating addiction as a chronic medical condition requiring personalized care that considers mental health, physical health, family dynamics and each person’s individual circumstances. As a result, the campus transformation will significantly expand clinical capacity. Three-quarters of the organization’s patients have co-occurring mental health conditions, President and CEO Joseph Lee, MD, told community members gathered for the expansion announcement in September. New spaces are being designed to better integrate clinical, mental health, substance use and family services while also supporting research and innovation. The renovation will also expand wellness services. Plans also call for a new residential building with 60 beds, bringing the campus total to approximately 161 beds once all phases are complete in 2029. Workforce development helps address a critical need The organization hopes its local impact will extend even further through workforce development. Since 1963, Hazelden Betty Ford has trained addiction professionals, and its graduate school has awarded master’s degrees in counseling since 1999. Now, the Hazelden Betty Ford Graduate School offers an alternative admissions pathway that lets qualified individuals without a traditional bachelor’s degree pursue graduate education. With behavioral health professionals in short supply throughout California and the Coachella Valley, leaders see the program as another way to strengthen the community it serves. At the September event, the former first lady’s daughter, Susan Ford Bales, expressed how the expansion is a continuation of her mother’s original vision. “Mom believed people struggling with addiction deserve dignity, compassion, and most of all, honesty. She believed in talking openly about addiction and recovery…and we [now] better understand the role that families play in healing...and the importance of ongoing support and community after treatment.” “We will open new spaces for community outreach and education,” she added. “We will offer more programs to the recovery community and to the greater Coachella Valley.” As the Rancho Mirage campus evolves, that may be the most meaningful change of all. The Betty Ford Center is not simply expanding its capacity to treat more people. It is opening its doors wider, inviting the community to become a greater part of recovery itself. Lauren Del Sarto is the founder/publisher of Desert Health. For more information, visit www.hazeldenbettyford.org. (Cover image AI generated). www.DesertHealthNews.com November/December 2026 Medical News The Valley's Leading Resource for Health and Wellness 7 Continued on page 21 Families and friends are suffering too. Office: (760) 341-6202 Hotline: (760) 980-7988 alanoninthedesert.com 73-441 Fred Waring Drive, Ste. 2 • Palm Desert Al-Anon and Alateen can help. Do you worry about how much someone drinks? NOT EVERYONE BY ALCOHOL IS AN TRAPPED ALCOHOLIC. Serving the desert communities www.palmdesertsmiles.com The latest technologies for a healthier, more youthful smile Technology in dentistry is very exciting and evolves as new materials and equipment are introduced. We select only the most proven, effective, patient- and comfort-focused technologies. • CEREC Same-Day Crowns • Implants • iCAT 3D X-Ray/Digital X-Rays • Modern Periodontal Care • Hard/Soft Tissue Laser • Mercury-free Practice • Pinhole Gum Rejuvenation • TMD/TMJ Support • Conscious Sedation • Fountain of Youth Dentures • KöR® Teeth Whitening Services and products we offer: 760.568.3602 44239 Monterey Ave., Palm Desert • PalmDesertSmiles.com Sarah A. Khoshniyati, DDS "Dr. Sarah" Nicholas S. Baumann, DDS "Dr. Nick" www.movementforlife.com/desert www.movementforlife.com/desert • Orthopedic rehab with board certified PTs to restore mobility and strength • Sports performance to boost your game including pickleball • Work injury recovery to get you back on track Power up your game Cathedral City 35325 Date Palm Dr. Ste 131 Cathedral City, CA 92234 (760) 202-0368 Indio 81557 Dr Carreon Blvd. Ste C4 Indio, CA 92201 (760) 347-6195 A rendering of the new dining hall at the Hazelden Betty Ford Center in Rancho Mirage Betty Ford Embraces Community and Integrative Care Continued from page 1 COVID-19. Here We Go. Again. By Judi Shor, PharmD, CMC, ACP First, the good news: Due to widespread immunity and groundbreaking new treatments, COVID-19 is no longer the world-disrupting pandemic it once was. On the flip side, the predominant burden of the disease continues to fall on the elderly due to age-related waning immunity and more chronic illness. Adding to senior concerns, current studies show inadequate antiviral prescriptions for elders diagnosed with COVID-19, low vaccination uptake over the past few years, and a critical lack of proactive immunization conversations between patients and physicians. The national COVID-19 vaccine formulation for 2026-27 targets the dominant XFG subvariant strain (nicknamed “Stratus” or the “American Strain”) derived from the Omicron lineage. This latest mutation is highly contagious, but thankfully, no more dangerous than previous variants. Like Nimbus, Stratus is marked by throatrelated symptoms. While Nimbus became known for “razor throat,” Stratus seems to cause hoarseness, leaving voices scratchy or raspy. Though formal studies have not yet confirmed this, medical professionals have anecdotally reported observing these patterns. For adults ages 65 and older, four FDA-approved COVID-19 vaccine choices are currently available. Three are mRNA formulations: Moderna’s Spikevax and mNexspike, and Comirnaty by Pfizer-BioNTech. Novavax, the only protein-based option, is marketed as Nuvaxovid and manufactured by Sanofi US. Each of these vaccines are made to train the immune system to recognize and respond to the COVID-like spike proteins embedded within their formulation. All four vaccines are free of eggs, preservatives and latex. Side effects are generally mild, occurring up to three days post-injection and may include muscle and joint aches, injection site pain, fatigue and fever. Swollen lymph nodes, most commonly in the armpit, are a benign immune response that may persist for several weeks before shrinking back to normal. No single vaccine is recommended over another, as each option achieves the same result. The key is to get the COVID-19 vaccine in a timely manner, considering the virus’ annual infectious peaks in winter and late summer. An up-to-the-minute American Medical Association-sponsored study through June continues to validate the benefit of respiratory vaccinations, particularly for preventing severe disease and hospitalization. The 2026-27 season vaccination schedules are fairly complex and may benefit from individualized medical guidance. Briefly stated: • Adults age 65 and older are recommended for two vaccine doses spaced six months apart to ensure yearlong protection. • Seniors with moderate-to-severe immune disorders face more serious COVID-19 outcomes and are advised to complete a three-dose mRNA series from the same manufacturer or two doses of the protein-based option, Nuvaxovid. • Immunocompromised conditions include various carcinomas such as solid tumor and blood malignancies, active cancer treatment, immunosuppressive medications and organ transplant. • Vaccination should not be delayed in patients receiving immunosuppressive treatment. • Elders undergoing cancer treatments who simultaneously contract COVID are extremely vulnerable, requiring hospitalization in up to 60% of cases. Additional vaccine doses at two-month intervals may be given to those in the defined immunedeficient group through a collaborative process called ‘shared decision-making,’ a balanced discussion between the patient and their healthcare provider.
www.desertdoctors.org In September, the third annual Healthy Desert, Healthy You Summit brought together over 400 community members with a new focus on the social determinants of health, including healthcare access, behavior and mental health, healthcare workforce development and housing. I was very inspired by the “Workforce: Building the Future Care Team” panel, which demonstrated the growing collaboration among local educators, employers and community organizations to address our valley’s long-standing shortage of healthcare professionals. Their philosophy is to continue to build from the ground up by supporting pathways that help local students become the physicians, nurses and allied health professionals (supportive positions) our community needs. The panel was moderated by KESQ News Channel 3’s Katie Boer and featured OneFuture Coachella Valley’s President and CEO Sheila Thornton; Eisenhower Health’s Chief Community Health Officer Victor Cisneros, MD; InnerCare’s Vice President and Chief Academic Officer Conrado Bárzaga, MD, and the College of the Desert’s Acting Dean of Mathematics and Sciences, Nursing and Allied Health Sarah Fry, MSN, RN, PHN, CNE. New efforts aim to further support graduates of our award-winning health career academies, in which approximately 1,200 students across seven valley high schools currently participate. But classroom learning alone isn’t enough, OneFuture’s Sheila Thornton said. Students also need exposure to real workplaces, mentors and professionals who can help them envision themselves in these careers, and funding to continue their required education. Eisenhower Health is bringing high school students onto its campus to meet medical professionals, receive mentoring and learn about the many careers available beyond doctors and nurses. Those experiences can lead to college-level clinical, research and mentorship opportunities designed to strengthen students’ applications to health profession programs (read a student perspective in our OneFuture column on page 4). Financial support is another critical piece. Over the past 12 years, OneFuture and its community partners have awarded $21 million in scholarships to 3,300 local students, approximately 35% of whom are pursuing healthcare. Those recipients have earned 671 healthcare degrees, including approximately 215 nursing degrees and 20 doctoral degrees. The scholarship program involves 15 nonprofit and educational organizations working with the Desert Healthcare District. www.DesertHealthNews.com November/December 2026 Continued on page 24 Medical News The Valley's Leading Resource for Health and Wellness 8 Your Health. Your Choice. Find trusted independent doctors throughout the Coachella Valley. Insurance accepted • Hospital privileges For direct access to quality care, visit DesertDoctors.org, or call 760.232.4646 Adam Farzaneh, MD Concierge Medicine, Internal Medicine, Family Medicine Christopher Hancock, M.D. Neuroradiology, Radiology, Telemedicine Corina Morrison, D.C. Chiropractor Mark V. Sofonio, M.D., F.A.C.S. Plastic Surgery PRIMARY CARE PHYSICIANS including: FULL SPECTRUM OF SPECIALISTS including: VARIETY OF ALLIED MEMBERS including: Local Doctors. Independent Care. Scan to search our provider directory You agree to help someone, then feel a tightness in your chest. Your schedule is already full. Immediately, you begin arguing with yourself: “I’m selfish to feel this way. They need me. I should be able to handle it.” Before deciding what to do, you have turned your discomfort into a judgment about yourself. Self-trust involves taking your thoughts, feelings, needs, perceptions, observations and experiences seriously enough to use them when making decisions. It also leaves room for facts, other perspectives and new information. Your feelings deserve consideration, even when they do not tell the whole story. When people repeatedly hear that they are too sensitive, demanding or wrong, they may begin questioning what they notice. They may judge their needs or feel compelled to prove that their feelings are justified. A decision becomes an exhausting internal debate. Here is a practice I use with clients that offers a structured way to pause during that debate. The sequence is simple: notice, hold both, decide. Begin with your right hand, palm facing up. Imagine holding the weight of your inner experience: your thoughts, feelings, needs, urges and perceptions. Name what you notice without judging it. “I feel overwhelmed. I need rest. I want to say no.” Next, raise your left hand, palm facing up. Imagine holding the weight of the facts and information about the situation. What happened? What do you know? What remains uncertain? Separate observable events from guessing about another person’s intentions. Bring your hands together with their sides touching, palms up. Pause and imagine the weight in each hand. Allow both your experience and the situation to receive attention. Then make a “Yes, and…” statement and say it aloud: “Yes, I feel overwhelmed and need rest, and my friend has asked me for help.” Neither part cancels the other. Your friend’s need does not erase your exhaustion. Your exhaustion does not erase your friend’s request. Now ask: “Given everything I’m noticing, what is the most effective next step?” You might offer thirty minutes instead of an afternoon, suggest another resource or decline. The decision considers your capacity alongside the request. You do not have to prove that someone is wrong before acknowledging a limit. This shift also changes the question. Instead of circling around questions like, “Why am I like this?” or “Who is right?” you ask what you can do next. Sometimes the effective step is to gather information or wait until you are calmer. Practice with small, everyday interactions. Repeat the statement aloud when the same doubt returns. Repetition provides another opportunity to acknowledge your experience and consider the facts before acting. Self-trust leaves room for mistakes and revision. You can misunderstand something, learn more and change your decision while continuing to take yourself seriously. The aim is to make room for what you feel and what you know, then choose an action that fits the situation. Over time, those ordinary moments become opportunities to practice a different response: noticing yourself without immediately dismissing yourself, and deciding without first putting yourself on trial. Linda Olson is a psychologist with Desert Integrative Wellness and creator of the SelfTrust Approach™ and Yes And Practice™. She helps women understand why they stay in unhealthy relationships and how to rebuild self-trust and break free. She can be reached at (760) 349.1248. Making Decisions Effectively By Linda Olson, PsyD Katie Boer and Sheila Thornton at the Healthy Desert, Healthy You Summit (Photo: Andrew Cabral) Growing Our Own Healthcare Workforce Healthy Desert Summit highlights local efforts By Lauren Del Sarto
www.executive-errands.com www.rhsc.ernesthealth.com www.DesertHealthNews.com November/December 2026 Medical News The Valley's Leading Resource for Health and Wellness 9 We are passionate patient caregivers Specialized rehabilitative services for patients recovering from disabilities caused by injuries, illnesses or chronic medical conditions. We strive to create a healing and nurturing environment to meet your physical and emotional needs with compassionate physicians, dietitians, physical and occupational therapists and dedicated case managers. Recovery may include: • Therapies focused on progressive mobilization, restoration of function, improving strength, endurance and flexibility • Interdisciplinary pain management • Pre- and post- surgical care • Mindfulness classes and activities • Ongoing communication and consultation with referring physicians to ensure effective treatment and continuity of care • Education about risk factors and injury prevention • Functional living areas to practice newly learned techniques and ensure a safe discharge We believe this comprehensive approach will allow you to recover more fully so you can return home as quickly and independently as possible. 760.895.6600 | 70077 Ramon Road, Rancho Mirage rhsc.ernesthealth.com Stroke Certified Just before I swing a golf club, something extraordinary happens. Everything becomes quiet. The chatter in my head settles. For a brief moment, peace and serenity settle in, unlike anything I’ve experienced elsewhere. Of course, that peace doesn’t always last. Golf can be maddening, ridiculous, humbling and downright hilarious. And therein lies the beauty. Here are a few things that little white ball has taught me about living: Appreciate the moment. Golf courses offer beautiful vistas, wildlife and unexpected treasures. I’m forever collecting souvenirs: a beautiful feather, a pinecone, a shapely twig or a small branch that catches my eye. Nature’s gifts, free of charge. Sometimes a roadrunner follows us to the next hole, hoping for a morsel of my turkey sandwich. Who knew golf could include wildlife room service? Never underestimate laughter. Throughout our play, we celebrate good shots, dissect bad ones and trade enough trash talk to keep everyone humble. By the thirteenth hole, we’re already lamenting that we’re on the back nine. When my son drives the cart through a covered passageway, I lift my legs, cross my fingers, and squeal with delight like a child at recess. Life is serious enough. We’re never too old to play and be gloriously silly. Be present. On the course, the rest of the world falls away. Responsibilities, worries, yesterday’s disappointments, tomorrow’s uncertainties — they all take a back seat. There is only the next shot, the scenery, the conversation and the people beside you. For a few hours, we’re simply here. And here is a very good place to be. You are never finished becoming. Golf keeps surprising me. A drive that travels farther than I imagined possible. A score I once thought was beyond my reach. Progress that comes with setbacks, frustration and the occasional inexplicable miracle. Life is much the same. A bad shot doesn’t have to ruin the round, and a difficult chapter doesn’t have to define the story. We can keep learning, improving and discovering abilities we didn’t know we had. Perhaps that’s what I love most about golf. It reminds me that we’re never quite finished becoming who we can be. Life, like golf, will always have its hazards. There will be unexpected turns, shots that don’t go where planned and days when we wonder why we ever picked up a club. Sometimes the flag isn’t even in sight. That’s when we remember to take life one day at a time, one shot at a time, trusting that we’ll find our way forward. But there will also be beautiful fairways, unexpected breakthroughs, good company and moments when everything comes together. Golf doesn’t always arrive wearing formal clothes. Sometimes it arrives with laughter, a little trash talk and the freedom to feel like a kid again. And that is a life lesson worth sharing. “Dr. Amy” is a licensed marriage and family therapist (MFC#41252) and doctor of clinical psychology. She can be reached at (760) 774.0047. Life Lessons from the Fairway By Amy Austin, PSYD Austin with son Ari Regar and friend Seth Rosenthal
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