DR. BILL RELEFORD: TREATING DIABETES AND HYPERTENSION BY SAVING LIVES AND LIMBS – AT THE BARBERSHOP!

Program to be Featured on "NBC Nightly News" and "The View"

Los Angeles, CA (BlackNews.com) – Dr. Bill Releford is a medical dynamo who has gained international acclaim for launching and inspiring a national health movement that has saved lives — and limbs.

Known as the Black Barbershop Health Outreach Program, this novel initiative began in Los Angeles when Dr. Releford became alarmed over the growing number of black male patients who had diabetes and/or hypertension and had lost their limbs to this disease. In this grassroots program, Releford and a squadron of physicians, go to where black men congregate — in the barbershop.

Since its launch, the program has screened over 7000 in 16 of cities and reports that the effort is impacting lives.

As a result of the screenings held at the Barbershops, 35% have been diagnosed as having some form of cardiovascular disease and have been placed on a lifestyle program and diet that would allow them to live with the disease. In some cases, Releford reports that, it’s not uncommon to find it necessary to refer someone directly to the emergency room after receiving life-threatening test results.

This proved to save lives.

Releford reports that the Black Barbershop Health Outreach Program has saved numerous lives and transformed men who ate fried foods and engaged in destructive health habits and who were headed to an early death, to specimens of health mindful of their diets.

Dr. Releford’s elevation to becoming a health savior began when he began his private practice in 1990 in Los Angeles He founded the Diabetic Foot Institute when he determined that in approximately 70-85% of cases, amputation was recommended either prematurely or should not have been recommended at all. Overwhelmed by the devastation that a loss of limb meant to a family, the inability to contribute to the family and one’s own sense his self, his entire practice became and remains dedicated exclusively to diabetic limb salvage. It remains the core mission of the Releford Institute for Limb Salvage and Wound Care, a facility dedicated exclusively to the reduction of diabetes-related amputations in high-risk populations.

In his consultations with patients who had had the amputations, it was clear that most patients were oblivious to the standard of care that should be expected during the occurrence of a diabetic foot complication or the unfortunate recommendation for lower-extremity amputation.

His limb salvage success and philosophy was formalized in the development of the Daniel Freeman Wound Care Center where platelet-derived growth factor therapy was used to facilitate healing of chronic wounds. A multi-disciplinary approach to limb salvage was exercised where vascular surgeons, infectious disease specialist, plastic surgeons, endocrinologist and podiatrists collaborated for the benefit of salvaging a foot at risk of amputation.

To strengthen his findings, and to help his growing patient roster, he began a series of clinical trials whose findings led to the founding of The Diabetic Foot Institute. This facility has the distinction of being one of the first non-academic facilities to use bio-engineered tissue in the United States during a clinical trial. This tissue was used to create a medical procedure used to heal diabetic ulcerations and prevent unnecessary amputations.

Inspired by the results, he concluded what was apparent: African American men are disproportionately affected by diabetes and hypertension more than any other ethnic group. Creative and innovative outreach was critical.

He reasoned that a national movement was necessary to reach a broader population where he could serve and service black men on a greater level.

Says Releford, "The development of culturally specific prevention centered educational vehicles was vital and an extension of my personal mission to affect the disproportionate number of diabetes-related amputations that occur in minority communities."

Out of this, the Black Barbershop Health Outreach Program was conceived.

"Our goal," declares Releford, "is to facilitate education, early detection and referral to the appropriate healthcare partner in the cities where we are present. By screening African American men for both diabetes and hypertension in various barbershops around the country, we will save lives and address health care disparities from within our communities."

The men, whose lives have been impacted through the program, span the country.

"I truly believe that the Black Barbershop Health Outreach Program saved my life. When I was tested my blood pressure was 210 / 115. I was sent directly to the emergency room. Who knows, I could have had a stroke or maybe even been dead." — C.P. / Los Angeles

"Before I came to the Black Barbershop Program, I didn’t know I had diabetes. I knew that sugar ran in my family, but I was shocked when they told me I should go to the doctor to get a final diagnosis." — J.A. / Harlem, New York

"I thought I was in pretty good shape at first. I went to get a haircut and saw nurses at a table in the back but didn’t pay them any attention until my barber suggested that I get tested. When I did I could see in their eyes that something was wrong. My blood pressure was 190 / 95. I immediately went to a clinic where I am now on medication and I’ve changed my diet." — P.H. / Atlanta, GA

Dr. Releford credits The Abbott Fund, whose sponsorship has factored in the program’s success.

The Program has spawned the publication of a book he authored titled 5 Colors for Better Health (Milliken 2009). In it, he instructs the reader on the value of incorporating five colors into their diet to ward off, or manage diabetes or high blood pressure. These include a special blend of greens such as collards, kale and swiss chard, purple vegetables like purple cabbage, red bell peppers, yellow squash, white onions, garlic and leeks.

As a response to patients who craved for a product that would address the condition, Dr. Releford developed a remedy that, if used regularly, will stem the tide of diabetes and high blood pressure in our communities.

Dr. Bill Releford’s extraordinary efforts have gained him international acclaim. As part of NBC’s weekly feature that profiles those impacting lives for the better, he will be featured on The NBC Evening News with Brian Williams. The two-minute segment, titled "Making a Difference" will highlight the Black Barbershop Health Outreach Program and how it — and Dr. Releford are changing lives. Testimonials of those whose lives were enhanced through the program will also be featured. He will also be a guest on The View on Monday, April 27. Sherri Shepherd, one of the co-hosts, is a vocal supporter of the program.

He points out that while his mission has been targeted to African American men, all who suffer from diabetes and hypertension can benefit from the book and the product.

"I’m blessed to be the vessel through which so many lives have been saved and transformed," he says. "I vow to continue to make a difference through this program and the mission."

For more information, log on to www.blackbarbershop.org.

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"You can have everything in life you want if you will just help enough other people get what they want," said Zig Ziglar, international speaker whose quote is the guiding inspiration to authors Pam Perry, Anthony and Crystal Obey.

Together they have penned, SYNERGY ENERGY: How to Use the Power of Partnerships to Market Your Book, Grow Your Business and Brand Your Ministry. The book outlines synergy energy marketing methods and techniques that anyone can use everyday for their business, book or ministry.

"Though we are in hard economic times, there are enough resources available to have a viable, flourishing enterprise. It’s about creating partnerships, joint ventures and affiliates with like-minded others," said Perry, who is known as "the connector" and Chief Visionary of Ministry Marketing Solutions out of Farmington, Michigan.

These co-authors, Perry and the Obeys, believe in leveraging their resources to build their businesses, extend their brands — and are now committed to helping others do the same.

"Synergy Energy is about how we stopped struggling in business and are now paid very well to help others increase their income through joint ventures. We connect product owners with JV partners and Super Affiliates," said Crystal Obey, co-author and co-owner with husband, Anthony, Perfect Storm Consulting located in Indiana.

Perry, a 20-year public relations veteran, has really been walking this talk her whole career. But it wasn’t until she met the Obeys and they showed her how to "monetize" her efforts without really doing anything different except shifting her mindset.

"I made a decision to reach out to others who have God-ideas and strong vision — to create some synergistic partnerships," said Perry.

Perry is now in the process of creating revenue sharing projects with best-selling author Omar Tyree; PR expert, Karen Taylor-Bass; ministry technology specialist, Dr. Rodney Sampson; virtual book tour specialist, Tyora Moody; internet marketers Lucinda Cross and Therese Prentice and dozens of other media outlets, authors and PR colleagues.

Dr. Teresa Hairston, founder of Gospel Today, "Working together ‘works’ is the ideology of this book [Synergy Energy]; and it’s a philosophy that is Biblical. We can all stand a lesson in unity…especially now, when so many businesses and ministries are challenged because of the economic climate. In unity, there is strength–this book will strengthen your ministry."

The co-authors of Synergy Energy share their strategies already in use in their own businesses — to help others thrive will others struggle to survive. They give step-by-step instructions to create profitable joint ventures and implement the new marketing methods used online.

Perry recently debuted the "Get Out There PR Boot Camp Tool Box" for authors. It is a digital information product of proven tips, teachings, techniques and best-practices used in Christian book publicity. The kit includes four MP3s and a publicity eHandbook with templates and worksheets that authors can use to get the word out about their books consistently and easily.

"This project could not have been done without the help of many strategic partners," said Perry. The book has contributing chapters from marketing/PR experts Monica Wood, Bob Ivory, Karen Taylor Bass and Sherese Duncan plus tons of endorsements.

"That’s why I know that Synergy Energy is more than a book — it’s a new marketing movement that helps everyone who embraces the concept and lives by the motto of ‘win-win’ in relationships."

George Fraser, best-selling author of Click: 10 Truths for Building Extraordinary Relationships and highly-acclaimed networking guru in the African American community, did the foreword for Synergy Energy.

Perry, whose mentor is Fraser, concluded, "Synergy Energy will teach you how to use marketing, networking, public relations to help you be a success in business — online and offline. Success does run in our race — and this book will ignite others to go full throttle."

For more information on Synergy Energy, call 248-426-2300 or visit PamPerryPR.com. There is a weekly internet radio show too, The Synergy Energy show at blogtalkradio.com/ministrymarketingsolutions. The book is also available on Amazon.com, www.synergyenergymarketing.com (for free downloads) and in fine bookstores.

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Roswell, GA (BlackNews.com) – While the average teenager is earning money babysitting, this young CEO is establishing distribution channels and negotiating prices with suppliers. Starting at only 13 years of age, Jasmine Lawrence, President and CEO of EDEN BodyWorks is on the road to success. With the drive and determination of a seasoned CEO she is strategically making her mark, a mark which has garnered this young dynamo appearances on The Oprah Winfrey Show, the Montel Williams Show, ABC’s Nightline, and NBC’s Today Show.

EDEN BodyWorks was driven from Jasmine’s own need for a natural hair care solution. Devastated by the harsh chemical products, Jasmine sought to develop unique products that were all natural and really worked. Unlike most products that are cosmetic in nature, her mission was to develop hair care products that actually deliver their promises.

Jasmine founded EDEN BodyWorks after being selected to attend a Business Camp sponsored by National Foundation for Teaching Entrepreneurship (NFTE). "They empowered me," says Jasmine. She was taught essential business skills and was provided access to resources to help develop and grow her business, including a host of advisors and mentors.

Jasmine is currently 17 years old and a senior in High School. She continues to excel academically while being a member of the National Honor Society. She is a proud NFTE alumni and a member of the National Society of Black Engineers. As a pastime, Jasmine plays the harmonica, is an avid sports fan who loves to play basketball, writes poetry, delivers outstanding motivational speeches, and tutors and mentors elementary school students. Jasmine receives moral support from her parents, Clive and April, sisters Tigena, Crystal, Honesti, and Alexis, and brother Justin.

Under the leadership of this dynamic and driven young person, EDEN BodyWorks has experienced tremendous growth with a rapidly expanding product and customer base. Her company, a certified woman-owned business, manufactures and distributes all-natural hair and skin care products to retailers nationwide including major retailers Wal-Mart and Whole Foods. Jasmine is currently working on expanding her all natural hair and skin care product lines to meet the needs of her diverse multicultural customer base.

Jasmine’s most recent endeavor is to participate with Mark Victor Hansen and Art Linkletter in the production of Richest Kids Say the Darndest Things. For details on this and Jasmine’s other media appearances, visit EDEN Body Works online at www.edenbodyworks.com/Page.bok?template=press

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1. Open Letter to President Obama on Assisting Young Me of Color Make a Better Life

Houston, TX (BlackNews.com) – The I Can Be Barack Obama book is story of how the historical election of America’s first African American President has impassioned the life of one small African American boy. It speaks of the love, hope, faith, dreams and triumphs that all children share. Additionally, it is a compilation of real kids’ statements of what "I Can Be Barack Obama" means to them.

The I Can Be Barack Obama movie is a compilation of real story-statements by real kids from all over the world who have been inspired by the historical election of the United States of America’s first African American President. Children’s views on the first elected African American President of the United States will determine the future of the political and social dynamics for their generation and generations to come.

Rriiver Nyile believes that I Can Be Barack Obama speaks about a man who has become a world role model. He embodies the idea to all children that the impossible can become possible. You can be anything that you want to be if you put your mind to it.

Rriiver Nyile invites each child to sit down and put pen to paper or fingers to keyboard and share his/her most powerful interpretation of what I Can Be Barack Obama means to them. Additionally, he would like them to video tape their statement and submit it via YouTube at www.YouTube.com/ICanBeBarackObama

The statement and video of those selected will be featured in the movie and book. Each chosen author will receive a complimentary autographed first edition copy of the I Can Be Barack Obama movie and book. In addition to the entries included in the book, Papyrus Publishing will present additional selections on www.ICanBeBarackObama.com. Details for submissions can be found on the webpage www.ICanBeBarackObama.com

At the onset of the book and movie’s scheduled release in the Summer of 2009, Rriiver Nyile will go on a national tour to promote I Can Be Barack Obama and celebrate with America’s kids the historic election of the first African American President of The United States.

Rriiver Nyile is an author, filmmaker, motivational speaker and kidpreneur. For information on speaking engagements, please contact Toni Scott Cohn via Toni@ICanBeBarackObama.com

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The recording features the tribute interwoven with music and excerpts from Dr. King’s speech in Memphis Tennessee.

Olivia recorded this poem in Wilmington, North Carolina, a town with special significance in Dr. Martin Luther King’s story. His next speaking engagement was scheduled to be in Wilmington before his untimely death.

Olivia was excited to record A Warrior Has Fallen because she feels that it is important for young people to remember Dr. King’s legacy and understand his impact on the world.

Her rendition of this tribute revives the art of dramatic recitation that was prevalent in American schools of the past. She hopes to have A Warrior Has Fallen heard by young people on radio and television stations throughout the country.

In addition to dramatic reading, Olivia is also an author and composer. She has written a book of poetry entitled "To Whom it May Concern." Olivia is presently composing her debut album and has released another dramatic performance entitled "The Kidnapped African Would Not Die" which is available on iTunes and Amazon.

Olivia’s recording of A Warrior Has Fallen is available for downloading on iTunes and Amazon, and is being distributed to radio stations across the nation and she is available for interview.

On the academic side, Olivia has received a travel scholarship to visit China in the summer of 2009.

Olivia’s video of A Warrior Has Fallen may be seen on her website, www.oliviaspeaks.com or on YouTube at www.youtube.com/watch?v=MjDDhP9N-mA

Special versions of the recording are being provided to top radio and TV shows, including Oprah, Tyra, Ellen, The View, and Tom Joyner, Steve Harvey, and Doug Banks Morning Shows.

For more information, to interview Olivia or obtain a promotional copy of A Warrior Has Fallen, contact John Hughes at (910) 262-2680 or by email to lifeskill@earthlink.net.

A copy of A Warrior Has Fallen is provided below for printing with credits during the Martin Luther King Celebration.

A WARRIOR HAS FALLEN

A Tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
By Herbert Harris, Jr.

A warrior has fallen
Let us honor him
Let us be still inside
And remember,
His triumphs and his failures.

He fought the dragons of his time
Against overwhelming odds
Proudly standing
In the face of racial discrimination
And social injustice
With honesty as his shield
With character and determination
As his mighty sword.

A warrior has fallen
Let us honor him
He has waged the ultimate battle
And won.

Overcoming the final obstacle
Of this fleeting existence
To receive the ultimate reward
Eternal and everlasting life
In the hearts, and minds, and spirits
Of all whose lives were touched by him.
Who received the benefits of his counsel
And of his works.

A warrior has fallen
Let us honor him
With the gift of everlasting life
In our hearts,
In our minds,
And in our spirits.

© 2007: LifeSkill Institute, Inc., P.O. Box 302, Wilmington, NC 28402; (800) 570-4009

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When I was in graduate school I wrote extensively about slave narratives — documented oral histories of enslaved Africans — mostly recorded post-emancipation. One paper dealt with how people found out they were free. Without access to even that era’s mass media — newspapers, pamphlets, leaflets and the telegraph — many people labored on, remaining the chattel of particularly unscrupulous owners.

In one narrative I came across, an enslaved man said he learned of his freedom from "a smart Negro." I was delighted to learn that the term "a smart Negro" had such old origins — at least back to the mid-19th Century, maybe even earlier.

Listening to a smart Negro turned out to be a wise move for this brother who, as I remember it, reacted by simply walking away from his servitude; marching bravely into an uncertain future.

America has, at last elected a smart Negro.

There’s much that’s good about this — beginning with at least for the time being a departure from this nation’s preoccupation and enthusiastic embracing of mediocrity. Throughout this election, I just wanted to shout again and again, "Just vote for the smart guy!"

Much will be made of this nation’s so-called transformational phase — in terms of race, in terms of generation, in terms of political campaigning, technology and fund-raising.

The demographic statistics will be pulled apart, reconfigured and put back together again as pundits blather on and on and on.

Even though public speculating is a respected profession, most of us understand that, in truth, the future — the great unknown — is always a gamble — as much for me, as it was for the brother who walked away from slavery. Life is a game of risk and reward, that’s true for individuals and that’s true for the nation.

In past elections, working class and poor uneducated white people have consistently voted against their economic interest. They failed to properly assess the risk or understand the potential of the reward. That failure continued to happen with this election — many of us listened cynically un-astonished at irrational rationales given by politicians, pundits and editorial writers–for rejecting the smart guy.

So, alas, despite temporary euphoria, we know from the popular vote that our nation’s racial division is not at an end. But thank God, with this election, a lot of educated whites finally drank the Kool-Aid, and voted in their own self-interest–for all our sakes.

Obama has made a big deal about being bi-partisan, being president for everybody about the United States of America. I don’t know whether conciliation is the way to lead, but it’s clearly the way to get elected. Obama’s likeability quotient certainly won him a lot of votes.

Willingness by whites to embrace one likeable black won’t require a wholesale change in methods to achieve racial parity because a lot of race matters are entrenched and must be fought-out — sometimes in a disagreeable fashion. Racial tolerance may be on the rise, racial understanding, I think, will lag behind. It’s a worry, but a manageable one. Especially since race matters along with the world’s other challenges are in better shape today because a lot of people grew beyond their racial prejudices and steeled themselves to get behind the election of a smart Negro.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Maida Cassandra Odom, who has written for The National Urban League’s Opportunity Journal, The Boston Globe and The Philadelphia Inquirer, worked as a newspaper writer for more than 20 years. She is now on the faculty of the Journalism Department at Temple University in Philadelphia.

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