#Dallas hospital from complications
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The Stuff I Read in January 2024
bold indicates favourites
Novels
Death's End, Cixin Liu
The Maze Runner/The Scorch Trials/The Death Cure, James Dashner
Echopraxia, Peter Watts
Other Long-Form
Against the Gendered Nightmare, baedan [anarchist library]
Imperialism: The Highest Stage of Capitalism, Lenin
What Is To Be Done, Lenin
Yuri/GL
Ring My Bell, Yeongol
Dallae, Choonae
Now Loading! Mikanuji
Even If It Was Just Once, I Regret It / Ichido Dake Demo, Koukai Shitemasu, Miyako Miyahara
Maka-Maka, Torajirou Kishi
Blooming Sequence, Lee Eul
Love Bullet, inee
Honey Latte Girl, Ayu Inui
I'm Sorry I Know / Wakatte Iru No Ni Gomenna, Ayu Inui
Night and Moon / Yoru to Umi, Goumoto
Handsome Girl and Sheltered Girl / Ikemen Onna to Hakoiri Musume, Mochi au Lait & majoccoid
The Forbidden Peach / Suimitsutou Ha Shoujo Ni Kajirareru, Iroha Amasaki
Goodbye, My Rose Garden, Dr Pepako
Blood Lust, yoshimired [link]
Palestine
The Grim Reality of Israel's Corpse Politics, Jaclynn Ashly [jacobin]
Mohammed El-Kurd and Ahmad Alnaouq on the complicity of mainstream media in Israel’s genocidal attack on Gaza [link]
Inside Israel's torture camp for Gaza detainees, Yuval Abraham [archive]
The Work of the Witness, Sarah Aziza [link]
Who profits from keeping Gaza on the brink of humanitarian catastrophe? Shir Hever [archive]
Misreading Palestine, Max Ajl [link]
A Pediatrician's Two Weeks Inside a Hospital in Gaza, Isaac Chotiner [link]
A Palestinian Meditation in a Time of Annihilation, Fady Joudah [link]
Gender/Sexuality
Assigned Faggot: Gender Roles, Sex, and the Division of Labour, Sophia Burns [link]
Gendered Bodies: The Case of the 'Third Gender' in India, Anuja Agrawal [doi]
Paola Revenioti: The Greek transgender activist on blowing up sexual taboos in the name of art, Hannack Lack [link]
Wages Against Housework, Silvia Federici [pdf]
My Words to Victor Frankenstein above the Village of Chamounix: Performing Transgender Rage, Susan Stryker [pdf]
Race
This is Crap, Hannah Black [link]
Social Constructions, Historical Grounds, Shay-Akil McLean [link]
White Psychodrama, Liam K. Bright [doi]
‘I don’t think you’re going to have any aborigines in your world’: Minecrafting terra nullius, Ligia López López, Lars de Wildt, Nikki Moodie [doi]
Singular Purpose: Calculating the Degree of Ethno-Religious Over-representation in the US No-Fly List, Matteo Garofalo [doi]
Iran
Samad Behrangi's Experiences and Thoughts on Rural Teaching and Learning, M. H. Fereshteh [jstor]
The "Westoxication" of Iran: Depictions and Reactions of Behrangi, al-e Ahmad, and Shariati, Brad Hanson [jstor]
Geographies of Capital and Capital of Geographies: Reckoning the Embodied City of Tehran through Cosmetic Surgeries, Marzieh Kaivanara
Economics
China in Africa: A Critical Assessment, Ahjamu Umi [link]
Small Scale Farmers and Peasants Still Feed the World, Report by ETC Group [link]
16 Million and Counting: The Collateral Damage of Capital [link]
The Keynesian Counterrevolution, Mike Beggs [jacobin]
Jobs For All, Mike Beggs [jacobin]
Other
How This Climate Activist Justifies Political Violence, David Marchese interviewing Andreas Malm [NYT]
Against Domestication, Jacques Camatte [marxists dot org]
The Annihilation of Caste, B. R. Ambedkar, [archive]
#reading prog#ftr i didn't read the original maze runner trilogy because i thought it would be good (it is bad in fact)#but to finally turn the page on an autistic Situation i had like five years ago
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❝ All units, possible superhuman event, Oscorp Records Building. Suspect is Elizabeth Brant, also known as the Scorpion. 49-20 on scene. We're going to need all the help we can get. It's a real mess down here. ❞
note: most of the plotting for this verse came from talking with west (@tracksdown) about dallas' spider verse so scorpion betty finds her home in earth 20 but definitely can be made to fit another spider's earth.
The Story
J Jonah Jameson is killed by a mugger in Betty's early teens so when her brother's debts and mother's hospital bills start to rack up forcing her to drop out of high school to find a job there is no one at the Bugle willing to take a risk on her. Though she manages to pick up odd jobs they barely make a dent in what the siblings owe.
Attacked by Gaxton's enforcers on the way home one day she is saved by the city's Wolf Spider. Checking she's okay after the fight is done, he directs her towards F.E.A.S.T if she's ever needing a safe space.
When she eventually heads there, she meets and befriends, Dallas, one of the young volunteers. Realising her mum worked for his unofficial guardian they share in some of their grief though Betty never fully reveals the extent of her troubles.
Despite Betty and Bennett giving all the money they can spare to pay off Gaxton, there always seems to be a new price incurred or interest added. It's Gordon who comes with the solution. Explaining that Betty only need help with one job and all they owe to the mob will be forgiven. Conveniently leaving out the job involves experimental surgery at the hands of Oscorp. (note: directly inspired by hostile takeover where homeless kids are getting pulled off the streets for experimentation by Osborn to replicate Spider-Man's powers).
For six months she is kept in a lab while there are repeated attempts to splice her DNA with that of a Scorpion. Though eventually the experiments make her stronger and faster, the initial failures leave her own DNA unstable requiring her to regularly wear a harness. (Does not require the full Scorpion suit to stabilise her genetic mutations like her 616 counterpart as body type means she was intended to be slinkier compared to his bulk)
Rather than being released, she escapes and immediately heads for Gordon ready to demand an explanation and apology instead she rips him apart. Lost to the rage, she accidentally kills Bennett as he tries to talk her down.
Wolf Spider tracks her down trying to be so gentle with her, blaming themself for not looking after she stopped turning up at F.E.A.S.T, even after the gruesome scene he saw at the apartment. Desperate to have someone to trust she's ready to take his hand when the police show up, guns ablazing. She tries to flee but not used to her new powers she's easy to capture and is turfed to the raft.
While she's in the Raft her reputation is dragged through the dirt by everyone trying to deny involvement with the experiments her brother's.
Initially she is easily dragged into Sinister Six schemes with the promise of help building her case against those that made her this way. Eventually, years later (after a Faith Lehane kind of redemption arc) she reaches a neither hero or villain status, where the public are wary of her and she's not always helping but she is trying to make up for what she has done.
The Abilities
Stronger and faster than most of the mutates within New York but impulsive and unexperienced in a way that tends to make her relatively easy to capture.
Cold blooded, when she eventually gets an apartment the thermostat is always high and she's normally buried under several blankets.
The experiments caused her body to produce an overabundance of beta-carbolines leading to her being biofluorescent and causing her increased aggression and loss of most inhibitions.
She has a cybernetic tail physically attached at the base of her spine that can be removed but the process is complicated and not following it means she feels like she's losing a limb. Through the spike at it's end she ejects a paralytic toxin, in certain doses it can affect the heart.
She has fangs. The only part of her that naturally excretes the paralytic.
Near nocturnal, leans more into it before her redemption. Tries to fight it to fit in with others afterwards.
Enhanced hearing, smell and tactile sense but diminished vision unable to form sharp images.
She has exposed chitin forming an incomplete exoskeleton mostly focused around her collarbones and spine.
#✮ ‹ ∘ 𝓑.𝓑. words and ideas can change the world : hc#the setup of this post is also stolen from west lol#long post#and yet more may get added eventually
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A reminder that the US faces a tragic and Orwellian reality, where women are not allowed to make the best medical decisions about their own bodies and lives.
Stories from women who have suffered under these barbaric laws below the cut.
On July 10, 2022, Yeniifer (Yeni) Alvarez-Estrada Glick died along with her unborn child due to pregnancy complications. She was not informed of the dangers of her high-risk pregnancy, and abortion or early delivery was not given as a life-saving option for her.
https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2024/01/15/abortion-high-risk-pregnancy-yeni-glick
On August 9, 2023, Miranda Langley gave birth to fatally conjoined twins who died briefly after. While she survived, she had to have a c-section to remove them, an invasive abdominal surgery. In Texas, she could not have had an abortion, even though the twin’s death was guaranteed. Pregnancy never comes without risk, especially in abnormal pregnancies where the regular procedures and body’s functions are disrupted.
In July, 2023, three women testified about their heartbreaking experiences of nonviable pregnancies and the inaccessibility of abortion. One, a woman who, despite being told ‘miscarriage was an inevitability’, went into septic shock delivering her dead baby. Another, a woman whose baby did not develop a brain stem, but was forced to carry her to term. The final one, a mother carrying twins, one of whom was nonviable, putting her and the other unborn child at risk. Despite this, Texas blocked her abortion. She was able to scramble and make it to Colorado, where a simple short procedure ensured that her other twin was delivered healthily. The lawsuit failed on the grounds that it was in the past, caused by the doctors, and the Center for Reproductive Rights said: “It begs the question: Does the state think that the only person who would have standing to challenge an abortion law is a woman who comes to court with amniotic fluid or blood dripping down her leg?”
Kate Cox also received tragic news of her fetus’s nonviability. As she was actively pregnant, she contacted the Center for Reproductive rights. Their lawyers went to work and got an order that would have allowed her to terminate this dangerous pregnancy. However, misogynist dictator Attorney General Ken Paxton “channeled the full power of the state to stop her, threatening hospitals, appealing to the state’s highest court and ultimately getting the order blocked.”
She was able to leave the state to receive the termination and proper healthcare, in part thanks to the support and national attention the case had drawn.
Why did Ken Paxton think he knows better than judges and doctors and the mother herself? Why are these men so hell-bent on strong-arming forced births? Well, as Dr. Jones says,
youtube
“It’s not about life. It’s about control.”
As she also points out, without universal healthcare, not only are women being forced to give birth or undergo surgery for these fetuses, they also have to pay for the costs.
How close must a woman be to death before a doctor can save her? How deep and devastating does the wounds from the pregnancy need to be before she can receive help? WHY are the decisions about this being made by those with no knowledge of pregnancy and all its complex factors? It is outrageous, plain and simple. It is misogyny, controlling women and their bodies and forcing them to risk their lives and health.
I encourage you to read all the linked articles in their totality. They are heartbreaking and the suffering these women faced didn’t need to happen. Never forget that this is not normal. Encourage all your friends and family to advocate for reproductive healthcare.
#pro choice#feminism#medical misogyny#misogyny#abortion#healthcare#reproductive rights#reproductive health#Youtube
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DAMMIT I.III
On AO3.
SUMMARY: Two suicidal old men with moral scrupulosity in a three-legged potato sack race towards domesticity. Dallas 2014/Brick crossover, all adaptation decisions arbitrary.
Note: Every time I post one of these I struggle against the conventions of my youth. Where's the song lyrics. Where's the tildes. Does anyone need a stern talking-to about homophobia. In any case, this is structurally a type 1 on the Bristol Stool Chart, which I am as a kindness to myself calling a montage. Warning for suicidal ideation, medical setting, homophobia.
⁂
Javert’s therapist praises him for setting boundaries. This distresses him. It is undeserved praise. The necessity that he reveal no details of his history with Valjean makes him sound like a deranged idiot, but for honesty’s sake he mounts an attempt: no, it is not himself that he protects, but Fauchelevent (and how he stutters over the name—! what does she think of that?). The man can bring him lunch and be free of him when it becomes too much, as it becomes too much each time he visits; where could Fauchelevent go to be free if Javert nested in his home? Fauchelevent’s freedom, he stresses, is important. Not, Javert explains, that he means so much to the man; he’s not conceited; no, he is not important, he is unpleasant. He puts a great deal of stress on this word, trying to communicate by tone where facts cannot speak: I served as guard to his prisoner, surveilled him for four years, denounced him, subjected him to a profoundly awkward social situation, threatened to shoot him, surveilled him again for several days before conducting a foot chase, demanded he stab me, threatened to shoot him a second time, and detained him briefly.
The therapist types a note on her laptop. She says, “OK, Mr. Javert, to clarify: do you think this man is literally an angel?”
Valjean’s prohibition of being rude to nurses doubtless extends higher in the medical hierarchy to therapists. Javert breathes out through his teeth and clarifies.
⁂
Marius’ course had been complicated by a hospital infection—ironic, that it’s not from the sewer—and neurological deficits from the head wound, but he went to his grandfather’s with home health rather than languishing in an institution. The house is in one of the more modest streets of Highland Park, which does not mean it’s less than ostentatious. Jean Valjean would have never gone there except that Cosette asked, so he acquiesced. The interior reminds him disorientingly of his mother’s shows from the fifties, her fascination with American wealth, stilled in time.
Cosette has warned him about the grandfather. He has strange manners, Papa. Teasing him, Do not fight the nonagenarian over my honor, please. He does not.
The boy is limpid-eyed and solemn, as at the riot, with a new searching manner to his speech and a tremble in his hands, which Cosette will later tell him is much improved. Jean Valjean anticipates, with immense weariness, exclamations, exposition, explanations sought, Cosette upset, Cosette in tears, Cosette hanging on his neck in unwanted thanks, her young man in his debt when he wants no more tie between them than what his daughter’s love demands of him.
What he receives is a blessing, to his mind: a stiff greeting, “Pleased to finally meet you face-to-face, sir.” A hesitation, a question in his eyes that does not reach his lips. Marius cannot remember him well enough to accuse him.
Yes, a blessing.
Marius blurts, “About the gardens.” Loses his words, and tries, “About the house. About stalking, or—not stalking, I mean.” It is all spoken in a very cold tone, which saps it of the charm silliness might have given it.
Cosette looks very pretty, blushing, with her face in her hands.
Jean Valjean prays to God, though for what he does not know.
⁂
The television in the dayroom has been set to a program about the riots; it is on one of the channels that he would consider more aligned with his politics than not. Javert wants to claw his eyes and ears until there is blood and blood and no more sense. They call that young man a murderer and he thinks it is the same impulse as ever that makes him respond, No, not yet, he has not been deemed guilty by a jury of his peers. It is this imprecision of language to which he has always objected, conservative news or no. They have found a photo of Claquesous, blurry, in which he is young and smiling, face half turned from the camera as if in a presaging of his elder self’s leeriness of being seen full-on. Javert dwells on what he has always taken care to be unaware of: police contractors with felon’s histories, political agitators with state money in their pocket, men who do not get charged with their crimes.
He thinks: Valjean’s example recommends felons to whatever jobs they excel at—is there a different, mayor or police agent? The implication is that it is not the felony but the policework at fault. He shudders. How lucky he has been, or how careful his superiors, that he has never been assigned to participate in—that—all of it. What he would call dishonesty. Like worms, there chew at him questions, questions, questions, missing evidence in narcotics cases, bruises on the faces of detainees who came in unblemished, reports written by partners with events he couldn’t recall. He considers reaching out to Gisquet, but he has read the response his first email earned him, and he—cannot; the rebuke hurts, sharp-edged even through a mind flocked by benzos.
Unless he takes himself off the edge of another bridge, or overcomes his squeamishness about exposed nasal cavities and risks a gunshot, or suppresses his resistance to taking medication in doses other than prescribed—really, there are so many ways to die, he could number more—unless he resigns, he will be a witness on the stand for that trial. He did not see Claquesous die, but it is rather compelling for the prosecution, those several hours he spent a guest of Enjolras and his friends. He thinks his past self would have seen them as rebellious, and disgusting; he does not know, now. He does not trust himself with this.
It would be easier to pretend that Jean Valjean is the sun which has risen, but all that good man has done is turned Javert’s face towards the horizon. What climbs above and burns him, what shows that he has deemed emptiness where there has in fact been darkness—that is something a great deal more awful than any single man could be, whatever awe he commands.
On previous occasions when Valjean has offered to drive him someplace off-site, given there’s room for the wheelchair in his trunk, Javert has been an utter bitch in response. Today he says, Please.
They get lunch. It is too much not for Javert’s spine or pelvis but for his left leg, which is swollen now, and the persistent numbness in his feet is like a saw’s whine under his skin, but he makes Valjean laugh, once. It is good.
⁂
Señor, Javert texts him in the middle of the night, and a rambling apology in Spanish. Maldito santo, he calls him. The vocabulary is robust and the grammar poorly. The word puta features regularly. In a particularly confused message, he repeats he aquí el hombre twice, then that Jean Valjean is solamente un hombre. The sentiment is difficult to perceive, much less absorb.
In the morning he replies, You know that I’m not Hispanic, don’t you?
I noticed you’re not Juan Valjuan yes
Please stop before, he types, and doesn’t know how to finish the sentence. Thinks the children with their strange ways of wording things might just add racismand call it a day.
Not worht putting through Google translate so you know
Jean Valjean erases his previous text and begins, No, I do understand Spanish, but
I wouldn’t have sent it w/o the klonopin trazodone combo.
Jean Valjean erases, again, and before he can consider that he exerts undue influence, writes, Do you think they have prescribed too many
BTW back at Baylor for cts today so will be too busy waiting for them to get their shit together to entertain you.
medications. Jean Valjean does not hit send. He deletes the message and instead texts, Ok. He thinks of prison doctors, the haze of compliance.
⁂
“I have not been to a Catholic service for many years,” Valjean says, “but I wouldn’t mind it, if you want to go. Ah, the Saturday before, too, if you like.”
“You’ve lost the faith?” Javert surprises himself with a nameless jerk of emotion in his chest.
“In God? Never.” He smiles, a soft thing. “But the details of a man’s religion are interesting only to him and his minister. I won’t bore you.”
Javert recalls how, when handed his effects in the hospital, he had taken the rosary from the plastic bag and clasped it in his hand. After some time he realized that he was flushed, unable to look directly at Christ on the crucifix. He has lived his adult life in mortal sin, his righteousness as a man unshaken by his awareness that he stood among the Good Shepherd’s flock a ram with flystrike, biting at the wool between his legs. His expectations for his place in the social order has always been dour, and his faith was not excepted, with his religion further suppressed by a frank lack of neighborliness. He went to Mass on Sunday, he selected Catholic when asked for his denomination, and he carried that damned rosary, which was with its origin and associations equally a reminder of his dedication to the police. Never has he suffered to blush in the face of God. Bitterly, bitterly does he blush now. His recent attempt to break the fifth commandment has little to do with this, he admits to himself—though perhaps the God from whom he sought to resign would be exasperated by the fact? In any case, he had not, on the bridge, been running to anywhere he did not expect to end regardless. Only, the sins which condemned him changed.
“Javert?”
What he wants to say is, Please, talk with me about God. Hearing in his own ear the effortful quality of his speech, he says, “I can’t kneel for all that fucking penance I’m due.” He has not done penance in decades, but he knows perfectly well one’s knees are the least of it. “Let’s not.”
Valjean touches his elbow and changes the topic.
It occurs to him that after four years in the same congregation, Valjean never took note that Javert didn’t come to confession or receive holy Communion. The lack of counter-surveillance is frankly galling. Or—he’s forgotten? Either way, it is difficult not to sulk.
⁂
It is a moral good and existential threat when several of Marius’ friends are released from detention. They managed to escape the police confrontation without major head wounds and cannot be relied upon to let Jean Valjean be. He, who has allowed Cosette her way in the matter of engineering situations in which himself and her young man must interact, now withdraws again.
He recognizes her brightness in Marius’ presence as the open expression of what he has seen from the corner of his eye, in moments she did not know he watched, such that even if he hadn’t remembered those awkward days in the Arboretum he would have been able to place when their relationship first began. More than it troubles him to hate this person who his daughter so loves, it disturbs him that she predicted it—it is not for her to bear up that she is everything to him. Even as it broke him, he has always been proud that she chose an out-of-state medical school, that she did not take him into consideration for that. That she has felt the need for such caution around her romantic life is—
In all his turmoils of the soul Jean Valjean has had moments when he did not comprehend the whole of himself, and moments of denial; there is only clarity here: that she is everything to him that a lonely soul cries out for, but never that. What jealousy he has of her intimacy with Marius is not—that. He prays to God that she has never thought of such things, that her reticence indicates instead a caution born of a deeply religious upbringing, the shadow of the convent, his own silence giving no guide.
She texts him frequently, and calls twice a week, and if it troubles her that he declines her invitations to spend time together, she does not tell.
He has found himself, of late, distracted by the question of how to make his various charitable projects move along without him. The money is his, and the impetus, but never the name or the hands, and it is not so difficult. It troubles him to think that they might deviate from their purpose without his eyes upon them; he prays on this, and concludes it is the sin of pride, as haunted his work in Montreuil. He thinks to himself that Javert is another charitable work that needs to gain independence, and feels badly over the knowledge that this would hurt the man’s pride. There is melancholy, too, but he cannot place why. He thinks of when Cosette was a little girl and they had found a bluebird chick pushed from the nest, half-dead, which they kept ’til it fledged and could be let free, and how she wept over its flight; has his heart been moved as hers was?
Javert, like the bluebird chick, has his moments of utterly lacking charms. He is up on crutches at last, and Jean Valjean has convinced him to come out for a celebratory meal. Evidently the resident in the neighboring room listens to Johnny Cash regularly, which has occasioned—Jean Valjean glances at his phone—a fifteen minute rant about the artist’s poor morals. He has not previously put much thought into Cash, but he has the sense from the facts stated between Javert’s opinions that their perspectives do not align.
In the pause following the arrival of their meal, he says, “He recorded those prison albums, didn’t he? I seem to recall he did some advocacy work.” He takes a bite of his gnocchi.
Javert looks struck, which is unfair. Jean Valjean barely said a thing. There is a silence. Javert takes what is more than a sip of his wine.
He adds, “‘Ring of Fire’ was catchy. I remember when it was on the radio. Ah, you probably weren’t even born.”
“You’re not that much older,” Javert mutters, in an odd tone; then, altogether too neutral, “That was one of my mother’s favorites.”
A man this fucked up, Jean Valjean thinks, has nothing good to say about his childhood. While he shouldn’t throw stones, his answer to the subject remains no, thank you. “You always change the radio to classic rock. That’s your preference?”
“Not really, but it’s more palatable than the pop shit you always have it tuned to.” His smile is unexpected and softens his tone as he continues, “Ridiculous, a man your age listening to Taylor Swift and—I don’t know what else. The goddamn song about being happy that they won’t stop playing.”
“The Pharrell Williams single? He’s quite an influential producer, too.” The station he prefers plays songs from the turn of the millennium to the present, and he’s really more invested in the older—relatively speaking—music, but explaining would require he talk about Cosette, nostalgia for her childhood, and he has thus far avoided mentioning her. Besides, this mockery from Javert, it’s—well, Jean Valjean does not mind it. He might even mistake it for friendliness.
⁂
Good fucking Christ, thinks Javert, who can still feel his own smile in the corner of his lip, m I friends with that old man? He chose the glass of wine over the evening meds contraindicated for use with alcohol, and is therefore trapped awake with all the inescapable little sounds of a facility at night around him. The neighbor who listens to Johnny Cash also snores. He reviews the six weeks that have passed since he turned his head and found Valjean at his bedside. He tallies their behavior against his abstract knowledge of friendship. The results are not amenable to him. Surely they are symbols of failure and suffering to each other before they are men, much less more?
—Surely?
Valjean wore slacks and a button-up to their little celebration dinner—did symbols of failure and suffering go to dinner together?—and had something of Madeleine’s charm about him. Could be decade-old sexual frustration reviving, Javert tells himself, whose hatred of the man in Montreuil was matched step for step with a willingness to get on his knees for him. Javert is much more accustomed to thinking of himself as a cocksucker than as someone’s friend. He is too alert and too honest to accept this substitution; far be it from him to pretend he wouldn’t bend over for Valjean, but that hardly signifies where the question of emotion is concerned.
Should he ask?
⁂
A dozen times Jean Valjean almost demands, What is it, Javert, and a dozen times he falls back from the question. The man is a creature of habit, he knows; doubtless the transfer from the SNF to home, while seeming to him like a blessed escape, is in actuality a struggle. God alone in his wisdom knows what might be passing through that blockish skull. He has an elbow leaned against the door, chin propped in cupped palm. There’s quiet in the car, volume low on the censored verses of Nicki Minaj; Javert has not switched the station.
“I didn’t realize there was a woman in your life,” he says, abrupt but neutral.
It locks the muscles of his back. “I don’t see what makes you say that.”
“Her mail is in your car,” Javert says. “Saw it when I put my bag in the back seat. Or am I not the only invalid you’ve played postal service to?”
Yes, letters from the finance office of the college; he recalls, but would not have expected the man to notice, tucked as they are into the pocket on the back of the driver’s seat. His instinct is to lie—what does it matter, when they will not see more of each other? He could say: someone from church. A neighbor on a trip. A girlfriend? He is dubious he could sell the last, particularly given Javert must have been aware he abstained from romance in Montreuil. “You do know of her,” he says. “My daughter, Cosette.”
“You kept that child?” From the corner of his eye, it is impossible to make out quite what Javert’s expression has gone to, but his voice is harsh. “You can’t have adopted her.”
I paid for her, Jean Valjean decidedly does not say, and knows he ought to have lied. “Ah, well.” He glances over. “Do you have a grocery store preference?”
In a distant tone, he replies, “Tom Thumb is fine. Take a right off the Field Street exit. We’ll have to go past the Jack Evans Headquarters on the way to my apartment—that fine?” When he receives a brisk gesture of assent, he restarts, with a dogged air, “The parole violation and fraud charges alone are enough for a prison sentence, but the statute of limitations won’t have expired for a fucking kidnapping, and—”
“Javert,” he says, his voice soft, “if you ar reconsidering seeing to my arrest, I would ask you to not involve Cosette.”
“I’m not—” His hands come up as if to seize, to fling something away from him. “Never mind. I won’t think about it.”
Given the depth of his agitation, this seems an unlikely way to resolve the situation. “I shouldn’t have put you in this position.”
“I’m not thinking it through, Valjean.” He presses close to the door, as if he would escape were they not on a highway.
“Cosette’s mother—” He has not been able to bring her name to his lips for years. “—gave her into my care.”
“Yes, that woman had a habit of child abandonment, didn’t she?” he snarls, his vitriol towards Fantine shockingly crisp-edged, as if he has kept it under glass all these years. “You were a rich man, a prominent one. Of course the bitch would want to cuckoo her child into your house. I, of all fucking people, am aware she didn’t have time to change her mind once she knew what you are.”
“No, she didn’t have time.” He will not look on those memories, knowing how he will find them: all of it gone strange with time and too much contemplation, here blurred, here more vivid than reality. He will hear the sound her skull make as it struck the headboard, feel her hand still warm under his lips, weep for how in her final repose she seemed to smile. He takes the exit. “Regardless, I made a promise.”
“A fugitive’s promise to a whore,” he snarls, “is not a legal transfer of child custody.”
“No.” He takes the opportunity of a red light to turn and face the other man in full. “She wasn’t that.”
“Well, she was never convicted,” Javert mutters. He holds eye contact, but too much of his sclera show. “No, she was never even charged.” The car behind them honks and he flinches hard enough to hit the door.
Jean Valjean does not startle; he checks the intersection before he drives forward. The controlled breathing of the man next to him is over-loud, and he wonders if he ought to pull off into an empty lot for this conversation. He would not engage with it at all, except he must be certain that Javert will not interfere in Cosette’s life. “I didn’t realize you held on to this anger. I haven’t seen it in you these past weeks.”
“Why should my feelings have changed?” he returns. “You humiliated me—and then I humiliated myself. Twice, if you count that shitshow of an arrest attempt. Yes. Twice. And you—you don’t feel anything? I distinctly recall you accused me of murder, at the time.”
He pulls into the Tom Thumb lot, parks. When he turns off the car, the radio keeps playing; Pharrell invites them to clap along. He presses the dial to silence it. His memories of Javert’s part in his downfall as Madeleine are faded, and not from being too gone-over; this man had the misfortune of being the lesser concern in each of the encounters that have remained so important to him, nothing beside Champmathieu, less than nothing beside Fantine. What does he recall? The surprise in Javert’s eyes when he took the gun from his hands and struck him with it, as if they had jumped from one script to another. Yes, most of all he remembers those eyes, watching through the years. Scattered incidences, from less emotional times. Sudden, clear: trying to calm Javert down, saying, I esteem you. A lie. He wonders now what impact it had. He is glad to have remembered; he will not try to de-escalate this situation in the same way, knowing it will not work.
Javert watches him, making no move to leave the vehicle. Fuck. He’s asked a question, and his patience has never been lacking.
“I have never wanted you to come to harm,” he tries.
Javert looks unimpressed by this.
What does he feel? At the moment, exasperation, and that first stutter of the heart that precedes the chase when one is the prey. “Please—”
“Don’t say please to me,” Javert rasps.
It is one of those moments of vulnerability which has nearly driven him from the man’s side, entanglement be damned. He goes still. “We should get those groceries.”
Javert holds out a hand to him, gaze gone sharp, and while the curbing of his emotion is welcome, the shift of attention is not. “Are you afraid? What of?”
“Habit, only. I am used to running.” The honesty costs him nothing, but still, it stings his throat. “You don’t want me to say please—but I don’t know how else to ask, Javert. Please. I don’t care about the past. Cosette has not known what it means to run. Not like I have. She doesn’t know.”
“Anything?” Javert asks, bewildered, and sees the answer in his expression. “That’s fucked up, Valjean. Why must you lie?”
Jean Valjean undoes his seatbelt. “Well?”
“You said please and never specified what you wanted,” Javert replies, pettish, and mimics him. “But—fine. You’re a kidnapper; very good! Add it to the list. You’re a good man. I know that. What do you expect, anyway, that I’ll tip off the police? With what evidence? As if I didn’t learn my lesson the first time.”
“You were right then, too,” Jean Valjean says.
“No. I’d be equally wrong now.” Javert pops the car door with more force than is necessary. “I’ll have an answer some day, but sitting this long has been hell. —Don’t rush, I can lean on the car and get the crutches out of the back. Christ in heaven.”
It is an awkward shopping trip, a quiet drive the rest of the way to the apartment, both of them flinching under the shadow of police headquarters as they pass it by. Javert seems too tired for further conversation, for which Jean Valjean feels guilt, gratitude. They bicker over who ought to go up the stairs behind the other, Jean Valjean to catch Javert should he fall, or Jean Valjean so that should Javert fall he not be knocked down. Jean Valjean prevails. It feels normal, as if they had not fought. He does not know what to make of the fact that there is a sense of normal from which to deviate. When it seems like Javert might offer him some kind of hospitality, a glass of water, he leaves.
There, he thinks as he drives back to the Southlake apartment. We are quit of each other.
⁂
In the first moment that he is alone, Javert goes to his gun safe and removes the P250. It is not illegal for him to own; no part of his hospitalization related to his mental illness, and he has not been adjudicated as mentally defective. Whether the spirit of the law would see his right to carry revoked is another matter, and none of his concern. Or—perhaps it should be? Such questions are what makes him look speculatively at the firearm. But he does not own any tarps to put down and catch the mess, he thinks, and he has been on good terms with his landlord all these years.
He sits on his bed, the crutches fallen to the ground at his feet, and rests his forehead along the barrel of the unloaded handgun. It is painful to think. He would rather be cleaning up the disgusting amount of dust that has accumulated in his absence. In his ears is the sound of the river, in his eyes the mist. He blinks away the latter, an unmarked time later, and struggles with his rigid back to retrieve the crutches, and return the P250 to the safe. Not today, he tells himself.
He wants his goddamn answers from Jean Valjean, for one.
After a week, Javert determines that Valjean does not intend to contact him. Well, is the man such a pussy that he can’t handle one argument over their shared past? Has Javert not reassured him that he will take no action against him? He composes several texts. He experiences self-loathing over those that are too harsh, and a different, less comfortable emotion when they are overly needy. Attempting to directly confront the reason for this silence does not prove fruitful. He settles on, Making stuffed chicken tomorrow night. Come over if you want. Six o’ clock. He adds, after a very stressful ten minutes, Can be earlier or later if you need it to be.
⁂
Jean Valjean realizes, quite startled, that what Javert has extended to him is the open palm of friendship. This is far from the first time he has been presented with such a thing, but it is the only one he has been uncertain how to avoid. Old Fauchelevent had been tricky, but he had only to think of his deceptions to place distance between them. He has no such excuse here. He received Javert’s text five hours ago and has yet to reply.
6 is fine, he plucks out. Sends.
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Hernia Surgery
If you are living in Dallas, Texas and experiencing symptoms of a hernia, you may be wondering about your treatment options. Fortunately, there are many excellent healthcare providers and facilities in the Dallas area that specialize in hernia surgery. In this blog post, we will explore hernia surgery in Dallas, Texas, including what to expect and where to find quality care.
What is a Hernia?
A hernia occurs when an organ, tissue or fatty substance protrudes through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle or tissue. This can cause pain, discomfort, and other symptoms, such as a bulge or lump in the affected area. Hernias can occur in different parts of the body, but are most common in the abdomen, groin, and upper thigh.
Types of Hernia Surgery
There are two main types of hernia surgery: open surgery and laparoscopic surgery. Open surgery is the traditional method of hernia repair, where a single incision is made in the affected area, and the surgeon manually repairs the hernia. Laparoscopic surgery, on the other hand, is a minimally invasive procedure that involves several small incisions through which the surgeon uses specialized tools and a camera to repair the hernia.
Choosing a Surgeon in Dallas
If you are considering hernia surgery in Dallas, it is essential to find a surgeon who is experienced and highly skilled in performing this type of surgery. Look for a surgeon who specializes in hernia repair and has a proven track record of success.
One way to find a qualified surgeon in Dallas is to ask for recommendations from your primary care physician or from friends and family members who have undergone hernia surgery. You can also do your research online by reading reviews and checking the surgeon's credentials and qualifications.
Facilities for Hernia Surgery in Dallas
There are many healthcare facilities in Dallas that offer hernia surgery, including hospitals, outpatient surgery centers, and specialized hernia clinics. Some of the top facilities for hernia surgery in Dallas include:
Baylor University Medical Center - This hospital is home to one of the largest hernia programs in the nation and has a team of highly experienced surgeons who specialize in hernia repair.
Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas - This hospital offers advanced surgical techniques for hernia repair and has a dedicated team of specialists who work together to provide personalized care for each patient.
UT Southwestern Medical Center - This academic medical center has a comprehensive hernia program that offers the latest surgical techniques and technologies for hernia repair.
Recovering from Hernia Surgery in Dallas
After the surgery, you will need to follow your surgeon's instructions for recovery, including resting and avoiding strenuous activity for a period of time. Your surgeon will also provide you with information on how to care for the surgical site and manage any pain or discomfort.
Most patients can expect to return to their normal routine within a few weeks after the surgery. However, it is important to attend any follow-up appointments and to notify your surgeon if you experience any complications or unusual symptoms.
Conclusion: Hernia surgery is a safe and effective treatment option for those experiencing symptoms of a hernia. If you are living in Dallas, Texas, there are many qualified healthcare providers and facilities available to help you. By choosing a skilled surgeon and following their instructions for recovery, you can expect a successful outcome and a return to your normal activities.
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Midwives in Dallas, TX: Navigating Prenatal Care and Birth Planning
For many expectant parents in Dallas, TX, choosing the right birth plan and prenatal care provider is one of the most important decisions they will make during their pregnancy journey. While obstetricians remain a popular choice, midwives offer a unique, personalized approach to prenatal care and birth planning. Midwives in Dallas provide women with comprehensive, holistic care, supporting families in making informed decisions about their birth plans, whether they are planning a home birth, birth center birth, or hospital birth.
In this article, we will explore how midwives in Dallas guide expectant mothers through the prenatal care process and assist in creating a birth plan that aligns with their preferences and values. From the first prenatal visit to the final moments of labor, midwives offer continuous support, fostering a relationship of trust and empowering women to make choices that are best for their health and the well-being of their babies.
What is a Midwife and What Do They Do?
A midwife is a trained healthcare professional specializing in pregnancy, labor, birth, and postpartum care. Midwives are experts in supporting women through natural, low-intervention births and emphasizing personalized care. In Dallas, midwives are available for a range of birth settings, including home births, birth centers, and hospitals. They provide care that is holistic, focusing not only on the physical health of the mother and baby but also on the emotional and mental well-being of the family.
Midwives are trained to handle normal, low-risk pregnancies, but they are also equipped to recognize when medical intervention is necessary and can refer families to specialists or hospitals if needed. They foster a supportive, intimate environment for expectant mothers and often spend more time during prenatal visits than obstetricians, allowing for a more thorough discussion of concerns, preferences, and birth plans.
Prenatal Care with a Midwife: What to Expect
One of the key benefits of choosing a midwife Dallas TX is the personalized and holistic prenatal care that is provided throughout the pregnancy. From the early stages of pregnancy to the weeks leading up to labor, midwives offer a wealth of knowledge and hands-on support. Here’s an overview of what to expect when you choose midwifery care for your pregnancy.
1. Comprehensive Initial Assessment
The first prenatal visit with a midwife typically involves a thorough health history review, physical exam, and lab tests. Midwives take time to listen to the mother’s concerns and answer any questions she may have about the pregnancy process, birth options, and prenatal care.
During the initial assessment, midwives will check vital signs, discuss any past medical conditions, and address any concerns regarding the pregnancy. Blood tests, ultrasounds, and screenings may be performed to assess the health of both mother and baby and to identify any potential risks or complications. This initial meeting sets the foundation for the care and support that will follow.
2. Regular Prenatal Visits
Once the initial assessment is complete, midwives typically offer monthly prenatal visits during the first and second trimesters, followed by bi-weekly or weekly visits in the third trimester. These visits allow midwives to monitor the progress of the pregnancy, assess fetal development, and provide emotional and educational support.
During each prenatal visit, midwives will:
Monitor the health of the baby through routine checks, including listening to the fetal heartbeat and measuring the baby’s growth.
Check the mother’s vital signs such as blood pressure, weight, and urine to ensure that there are no signs of complications like gestational hypertension or preeclampsia.
Provide educational support on topics such as nutrition, exercise, labor techniques, and preparing for childbirth. Midwives will often educate women on how to manage discomfort, alleviate common pregnancy symptoms, and reduce stress.
Midwives often take a more holistic approach to prenatal care, discussing lifestyle factors like diet, sleep, exercise, and stress management, all of which can contribute to a healthy pregnancy and a positive birth experience.
3. Building a Birth Plan
A significant part of midwifery care is working with expectant mothers to develop a birth plan that aligns with their desires and preferences. Midwives in Dallas work closely with families to create a birth plan that reflects their values, ensuring that they are informed and empowered to make choices about how they want their birth to unfold.
A birth plan is a document that outlines a woman’s preferences for labor and delivery. This can include everything from pain management options to preferred positions for labor, who will be present at the birth, and whether they want to avoid specific medical interventions like epidurals or cesarean sections.
Midwives are particularly helpful in guiding mothers through the birth planning process by:
Explaining all options: Midwives help parents understand various birth options, including the use of pain relief techniques, water birth, and different birthing positions.
Addressing concerns: If there are any fears or anxieties about birth, midwives provide reassurance and give advice on how to manage these emotions.
Ensuring flexibility: While a birth plan is important, midwives also help families prepare for the unexpected. Birth is unpredictable, and midwives emphasize the importance of being open to changes in the plan if circumstances require it.
Midwives also take the time to discuss your options for prenatal testing, home birth vs. hospital birth, and how to handle potential complications should they arise. Having these conversations early in the pregnancy ensures that both the mother and the midwife are aligned on the expectations for the birth experience.
Birth Planning with a Midwife: Home Birth, Birth Centers, or Hospital Birth
Midwives in Dallas are trained to attend births in a variety of settings, including home births, birth centers, and hospitals. When planning your birth, your midwife Dallas TX will help guide you through the options and help you determine the best setting for your needs. Here’s an overview of what each option entails:
1. Home Births with a Midwife
For women who want the most intimate, low-intervention birth experience, a home birth with a midwife may be the ideal choice. Home births allow women to labor in the comfort of their own home, surrounded by loved ones, and without the constraints of a hospital environment.
Midwives provide all the necessary equipment for a home birth, monitor the progress of labor, and assist with delivery. In the event of complications, they are trained to transfer to the hospital if needed. Midwives also offer postpartum care, ensuring the health of both mother and baby after the birth.
2. Birth Centers
Birth centers are a great option for women who want a natural birth but feel more comfortable being outside of the home. Birth centers offer a home-like environment with medical support available if necessary. They are often equipped with birthing tubs, comfortable beds, and other amenities that promote relaxation during labor.
Midwives in Dallas who attend birth center births ensure that mothers receive personalized care while having access to necessary medical resources. Birth centers often have a more relaxed atmosphere compared to hospitals, allowing women to move freely and labor at their own pace.
3. Hospital Births
Some women in Dallas may prefer to give birth in a hospital where they can have access to more immediate medical interventions, such as pain relief options or emergency cesarean sections if needed. Midwives can support natural childbirth in a hospital setting, advocating for the mother’s birth preferences while ensuring that hospital policies are followed.
Midwives who attend hospital births in Dallas offer a supportive role, helping to facilitate a natural birth experience within the medical environment. They work with the hospital staff to ensure that the birth plan is respected while maintaining a safe and healthy environment for both mother and baby.
Why Choose a Midwife for Prenatal Care and Birth Planning?
Choosing a midwife Dallas TX for prenatal care and birth planning offers numerous benefits, including:
Personalized, Holistic Care: Midwives provide comprehensive care that considers not just the physical health of the mother and baby but also emotional well-being and family dynamics.
Increased Birth Satisfaction: Studies show that women who choose midwifery care are more likely to have a positive birth experience, feeling empowered and in control of the process.
Greater Birth Options: Midwives support women in making informed decisions about their birth options, whether they choose a home birth, birth center, or hospital birth.
Continuity of Care: Midwives often provide continuous care throughout pregnancy, labor, and postpartum, offering consistent support and building a trusting relationship with the family.
Conclusion
Midwives in Dallas, TX, provide comprehensive prenatal care and birth planning support that focuses on empowering women, building trust, and promoting a positive, low-intervention birth experience. From the first prenatal visit to creating a birth plan and navigating birth options, midwives ensure that expectant parents are well-informed, supported, and confident in their choices. Whether you’re planning a home birth, birth center birth, or hospital birth, working with a midwife allows you to have a personalized, holistic experience that aligns with your desires and values for childbirth.
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BLAINE ANDERSON
☆ FULL NAME: Blaine Devon Anderson ☆ GENDER: Cisman ☆ PRONOUNS: He/Him ☆ AGE: 26 (April 5th, 1998) ☆ TYPE: Half sibling; solo ☆ HOMETOWN: Dallas, Texas ☆ JOB: Actor (Stage, screen and voice); Singer-songwriter; PSU Musical Theatre & Music Theory and Composition Guest Lecturer ☆ SCHOOL: PSU Alumni ☆ SEXUALITY: Homosexual ☆ FACECLAIM: Anthony Keyvan
ABOUT BLAINE
tw: homophobia, assault, cheating
Blaine Anderson was the product of yet another one of Paula Anderson's short-lived affairs, but at first glance, no one really noticed. A young Blaine was the spitting image of his mother, both in appearance as well as in his passion for music, and the fact that he also showed a lot of interest in his father's craft made no one question whether Blaine was biologically his. He started to sing as soon as he learned to talk, could spend hours sitting at the piano and loved putting on plays for anyone who would watch. While Blaine explored all kinds of interests and tried several sports as a kid, music and acting were what he was most passionate about, and what he excelled in. His parents enrolled him in piano lessons when he was five, which were soon followed up by singing and dancing lessons as well as several other instruments, and Blaine performed at local talent shows quite frequently. Most of his summers were spent at theatre camp, as long as it didn't conflict with any of the other trips the family had planned, and he got involved in local theatre, starring in his first regional production at the age of nine. Blaine started dreaming even bigger after that and he begged and begged his parents to let him audition for a Broadway show, but the answer was always no, due to New York City not exactly being around the corner. So Blaine decided to try the next best thing: acting in front of a camera. He followed in his older brother's footsteps, but after appearing in one commercial and guest starring in a couple of Disney shows, Blaine realised that it didn't quite compare to the feeling that being on stage gave him, and he stopped auditioning.
But while having a famous father had its perks, that certainly didn't mean that being an Anderson was always easy. Dealing with critical siblings who loved to boss him around, an emotionally unavailable father who wasn't around very often and the pressure that came with having to live up to the Anderson could be quite challenging, especially when you're still trying to figure out who you are. Blaine always felt a strong need to please everyone and to make sure he was perfect at anything he did, and he is still very much a perfectionist and people-pleaser to this very day.
The relationship with his father seemed to become even more strained once Blaine had reached his teenage years, although he couldn't quite put his finger on why. He wondered if it was the fact that he had just come out, or if his father perhaps saw stage acting as inferior to screen acting. Or maybe their personalities simply clashed. There had been some attempts at bonding, like the summer when they had rebuilt a car together, but Blaine couldn't help but wonder if his dad thought getting his hands dirty might somehow magically make him straight. No matter how hard Blaine tried, he felt like he could never do things right in his father's eyes. It started to feel like this constant balancing act where Blaine felt like he was either too much or not enough, not just to his father but to his entire family.
The fact that his peers started to bully him just made things even more complicated, and things got especially bad when Blaine came out. When he asked another boy to the annual Sadie Hawkins dance months later, it ended in disaster when the two of them were attacked in the parking lot after the dance. After being released from the hospital, Blaine transferred to a different private school. He took up boxing and self-defence and attended weekly therapy sessions, but the many hours he spent scribbling down song lyrics in a notebook were especially cathartic to him.
While Blaine had been counting the days until graduation so he could finally follow his own path and make his great escape to New York City, he ended up following in his siblings' footsteps and attending PSU instead because it was the college his then-boyfriend had chosen to attend. The guy broke up with him barely two months into his first semester, but while Blaine was heartbroken, PSU had already started to feel like home, so he ended up staying. He double majored in Musical Theatre and Music Theory & Composition, and his following on TikTok and YouTube, where he posted covers and the occasional original song, started to increase during his time at PSU.
After graduating, Blaine finally made the move to New York that he'd been dreaming of for so long, and the city instantly felt like home. While he didn't regret his decision to study at PSU instead of in New York (except for the reason why he'd decided to go there in the first place), the city truly felt like the place where he belonged. It wasn't long until Blaine made his Broadway debut, portraying Doody and understudying Danny Zuko in the revival of Grease. He soon got to take over the role of Danny, and later starred as Seymour in Little Shop of Horrors, Tony in West Side Story and most recently as J.D. in Heathers. After landing a record deal, he also found the time in his busy schedule to work on his first solo album, which was released earlier this year.
Up until recently, Blaine had never really considered giving screen acting another try. But when he got the opportunity to audition for a new musical TV show that would revolve around a college glee club, both his agent and boyfriend insisted that he should at least give it a try. Little did Blaine know that his boyfriend may have had ulterior motives when he encouraged Blaine to audition. The very same day that he got offered a role in the show, his boyfriend broke up with him, which came out of nowhere for Blaine. The two of them had been together for three years (minus a few short breaks) and Blaine, who couldn't picture a future without him anymore, had even started preparing a proposal.
After the messy breakup, Blaine suddenly felt desperate for a change of scenery. So while he initially hadn't been sure if he even wanted to go back to LA to be part of the TV show, he found himself on a flight there as soon as he could, after trying his best to keep himself together for the final two weeks of performances of Heathers before its closing night. He's only been back in LA for about a week now, and rehearsals for the TV pilot will start soon. While his emotions are still a little all over the place, he's happy to be reunited with so many familiar faces, and he's ready for his next adventure.
FAMILY BACKGROUND
When Paula dela Cruz, an up and coming singer, met then C-list actor Max Anderson at an industry party, sparks flew instantly. With them both being busy trying to catch their respective big breaks, real love blossomed between the pair, and they did their best to make a long distance relationship work. When Max’s first leading role in an independent film became an instant cult classic, landing him his first Emmy and Oscar nominations, things started to escalate quickly for his career while Paula was still performing as an opening act for bigger artists. But regardless, she stuck by his side, which was why he ultimately proposed and then married the love of his life. They were barely married for a full year before they started growing their family. Her music career took the back seat as she raised the couple’s children, and over the years, she found herself feeling like a single mother with how little time Max was able to spend at home. As their children grew older and they spent less time together, both of them found other ways to be happy, even if it has landed them on TMZ from time to time.
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Harris plans a rare Texas campaign stop
Friday rally intended to call attention to state’s abortion ban
WASHINGTON — Vice President Kamala Harris will interrupt her tour of battleground states Friday for a Houston rally intended to highlight the consequences of Texas’ near-total abortion ban.
Harris’ itinerary this week is heavy on stops in Georgia and swing states in the upper Midwest as she tries to reach undecided voters in areas key to the Nov. 5 election.
Texas is a frequent fund raising stop for candidates, but it is unusual — at least in recent cycles — to see big presidential campaign rallies in the state shortly before Election Day.
Polling indicates former President Donald Trump has a clear, albeit single-digit, advantage in Texas, which has not backed a Democratic presidential candidate since 1976.
The rally is likely less about making a last-minute play for the state and more about refocusing national attention on abortion, a topic where polling gives Democrats a distinct edge.
Allred to join in
Harris is set to be joined at the rally by U.S. Rep. Colin Allred, D-Dallas, who is running against U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas.
Allred has endorsed Harris while trying to keep his distance from the presidential contest.
Instead, he has tried to make the race a referendum on Cruz and his support for tight abortion restrictions.
Allred has centered his campaign around a commitment to restoring abortion rights.
“What women in Texas are facing every day under Ted Cruz’s abortion ban is unacceptable,” Allred said in a statement Tuesday.
“By supporting an abortion ban that makes no exceptions for rape, incest or the life of the mother, Ted Cruz has put women at risk.”
Allred said Texas women “deserve to have their voices heard” and he’s glad they will have a platform to tell their stories at the rally.
The Cruz campaign has sought to tie the Senate race to the presidential contest and jumped on news of the rally, repeating a statement the senator has used several times, including in their debate last week — “Colin Allred is Kamala Harris.”
Cruz held tele-rally
The Cruz campaign hosted a Monday night tele-rally with Trump intended to highlight the former president’s support for Cruz and cast Allred as a proxy for Harris.
Cruz said during the rally that Allred has backed Harris policies that are soft on illegal immigration and harmful to the state’s oil and gas industry.
Cruz described himself as Trump’s “strongest ally” by far in the U.S. Senate.
Trump also is coming to Texas on Friday, his son said.
Donald Trump, Jr. posted on Instagram that the former president will appear on Joe Rogan’s popular podcast.
Multiple news outlets reported Trump will record the interview Friday at Rogan’s studio in Austin.
Sharing Texas stories
During her Friday rally, Harris is expected to cast Texas as ground zero in the fight over abortion as she spotlights stories of Texas women with pregnancy complications who were denied care.
Democrats say Trump is responsible for tight abortion restrictions or outright bans in many states because he nominated three conservative Supreme Court justices who provided the margin for overturning Roe vs. Wade.
Texas is among 13 states that outlaw abortion, according to the Guttmacher Institute.
Abortion was a theme at the August Democratic National Convention, which featured Texans Kate Cox and Amanda Zurawski sharing stories of being denied medically necessary abortions. Zurawski and her husband spoke about how complications rendered her pregnancy nonviable but doctors would not perform an abortion.
Zurawski was hospitalized days later with an infection that nearly killed her and threatened her fertility.
Harris will be joined by Allred at Houston campaign rally
Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris will be in the Republican state of Texas 11 days before the Nov. 5 election and will be joined by Senate hopeful Colin Allred at a rally in Houston that will focus on the loss of reproductive freedom, a central issue in both candidates’ campaigns.
Friday’s event will be the first time Allred, a Democratic congressman from Dallas seeking to upset Republican incumbent Sen. Ted Cruz, and the vice president have shared a stage in Texas in the 2024 election cycle.
Allred has so far been running a thread-the-needle campaign that seeks to keep the Democratic base in his tight grip, while not alienating independents and middleof- the-road Republicans who might not want to award Cruz six more years in the Senate.
“Allred has gone from an arm’s length handshake to a full-on embrace of the Harris campaign,” said Brandon Rottinghaus, a University of Houston political science professor.
“I think that’s because they’ve gone from persuasion to mobilization.”
Meanwhile, Politico reported Tuesday that former President Donald Trump will sit for an interview in Austin on Friday with podcaster Joe Rogan.
The report cited an unnamed source, but earlier this month the GOP nominee hinted that a one-on-one with Rogan was in the offing, and called the podcaster “a good guy.”
Polling in Texas since this summer, when Harris wrapped up the Democratic nomination after President Joe Biden ended his reelection bid, has shown the vice president closely trailing Trump and Allred nipping at Cruz’s heels.
Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, have expended much of their time and financial resources in such must-win swing states as Pennsylvania and Michigan, largely ceding Texas to the GOP, which has won the state in every presidential election since 1980.
The Democrats’ rally Friday, at a Houston venue to be announced later, will be an opportunity to remind voters that Trump appointed the three U.S. Supreme Court justices who anchored the 2022 decision that ended the right to an abortion, which had been in place for 49 years under the landmark Roe v. Wade ruling.
And it’s a chance to highlight Cruz’s long-standing opposition to abortion rights and his expressed support for the high court’s decision to leave it to the individual states to set abortion law.
The Cruz campaign has been salivating at the opportunity to cast Allred as a Harris acolyte even as the former NFL player-turned-attorney has sought to shape his image as a rare member of Congress who’s willing to buck party leadership.
In an unsigned statement, the Cruz camp echoed a point the two-term Senate incumbent hammered during last week’s debate in Dallas: “Colin Allred is Kamala Harris.”
“They have spent the last four years working hand-in-hand against Texans and the American people with their radical policies, whether those be pushing to allow boys in girls’ sports, allowing dangerous illegal aliens to come into our country, or trying to destroy the oil and gas industry in Texas,” the statement said.
Allred, in a statement of his own, did not expressly mention his planned appearance at the Harris rally.
But he did embrace the rally’s chief theme.
“What women in Texas are facing every day under Ted Cruz’s abortion ban is unacceptable,” he said.
“By supporting an abortion ban that makes no exceptions for rape, incest or the life of the mother, Ted Cruz has put women at risk.”
Harris spoke to a teachers organization in Houston in July, shortly after harvesting the convention delegates needed to wrap up the nomination after Biden’s exit.
Second gentleman Doug Emhoff in September made a two-day, three-city visit to Texas that centered largely on fundraising.
Allred was not part of either visit.
While Allred is seeking to highlight the abortion issue to shave away votes from independents and moderate Republicans who believe that the Texas law is outside the mainstream consensus, Cruz on Tuesday was touting support from former state Sen. Eddie Lucio, a Brownsville Democrat who consistently bucked his party when it came to that issue.
In a statement, amplified by Cruz on social media, Lucio described the Republican as “staunchly pro-life.”
Rottinghaus said Houston is a sound strategic choice for a Harris-Allred event this late in the campaign.
Early voting in Texas began Monday and ends Nov. 1.
“The polling from Harris County has only got the Democrats up by 13,” he said.
“And that’s lower than it was in past cycles, and much lower than they need to be for Allred to win Texas.
“The Allred campaign needs to get its core Democratic coalition out, and Harris being here is one great way to do it.”
Matt Angle, a veteran Texas Democratic operative, said Allred and Harris are more in line with mainstream thinking on the abortion question than those who have championed the overturning of Roe.
He said that by coming to Houston, Harris can spread that message both in Texas and beyond, since presidential campaign events command national attention wherever they are held.
“It’s pretty good signal to people in Michigan that she’s willing to go down to Texas and tell (Republicans) that they’re absolutely wrong forcing a rape victim to carry a pregnancy to term, or forcing women to leave their states in order to get life-saving health care,” Angle said.
“That’s a good message in Houston, in Dallas, and in Detroit.”
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AP, via The Guardian:
Ethel Kennedy, the widow of Senator Robert F. Kennedy who raised their 11 children after he was assassinated and remained dedicated to social causes and the family’s legacy for decades thereafter, died on Thursday, her family said. She was 96. Kennedy had been hospitalized after suffering a stroke in her sleep on 3 October, her family said. “It is with our hearts full of love that we announce the passing of our amazing grandmother,” Joe Kennedy III posted on X. “She died this morning from complications related to a stroke suffered last week.” The Kennedy matriarch, whose children were Kathleen, Joseph II, Robert Jr, David, Courtney, Michael, Kerry, Christopher, Max, Douglas and Rory, was one of the last remaining members of a generation that included President John F Kennedy. Her family said she had recently enjoyed seeing many of her relatives, before falling ill. “She has had a great summer and transition into fall,” said a family statement, issued after she was hospitalized. “Every day she enjoyed time with her children, nieces, nephews, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was able to get out on the water, visit the pier and enjoy many lunches and dinners with family. It has been a gift to all of us and to her as well.” A millionaire’s daughter who married the future senator and attorney general in 1950, Ethel Kennedy had endured more death by the age of 40, for the whole world to see, than most would in a lifetime. She was by Robert F Kennedy’s side when he was fatally shot in the kitchen of the Ambassador hotel in Los Angeles on 5 June 1968, just after winning the Democratic presidential primary in California. Her brother-in-law, President John F Kennedy, had been assassinated in Dallas less than five years earlier.
[...] Many of her progeny became well known. Daughter Kathleen became lieutenant governor of Maryland; Joseph represented Massachusetts in Congress; Courtney married Paul Hill, who had been wrongfully convicted of an IRA bombing; Kerry became a human rights activist and president of the RFK center; Christopher ran for governor of Illinois; Max served as a prosecutor in Philadelphia and Douglas reported for Fox News Channel. Her son Robert F Kennedy Jr also became a national figure, although not as a liberal in the family tradition. First known as an environmental lawyer, he evolved into a conspiracy theorist who spread false theories about vaccines. He ran for president as an independent after briefly challenging President Joe Biden, and his name remained on ballots in multiple states after he suspended his campaign and endorsed Donald Trump.
Ethel Kennedy passed away at 96. She raised 11 children after RFK was assassinated.
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How Much Will Chin Lipo Set You Back? An In-Depth Cost Analysis
Chin liposuction, commonly referred to as "chin lipo," is a popular cosmetic procedure designed to remove excess fat from the chin and neck area, resulting in a more contoured and youthful appearance. For many, this procedure offers a quick solution to the persistent problem of a double chin or sagging jawline. However, the question that often comes to mind is: How much does chin lipo cost? This comprehensive guide will provide an in-depth analysis of the various factors influencing the cost of chin liposuction and what potential patients should expect when considering this cosmetic enhancement.
What is Chin Liposuction?
Chin liposuction is a minimally invasive surgical procedure aimed at removing fat deposits from the submental (under the chin) area. This procedure is often performed using a small cannula to suction out fat cells, resulting in a smoother, more defined chin and neck contour. Unlike non-surgical options, such as Kybella injections or CoolSculpting, chin liposuction provides immediate and noticeable results with minimal downtime.
Factors Influencing the Cost of Chin Liposuction
1. Geographical Location
The cost of chin liposuction can vary significantly depending on the geographical location of the clinic or surgeon. In major metropolitan areas or cities with a higher cost of living, such as New York City, Los Angeles, or London, prices tend to be higher due to increased operational costs. Conversely, clinics in smaller cities or rural areas may offer more affordable pricing. It's important to consider travel expenses if opting for a location outside of your immediate area.
2. Surgeon's Expertise and Reputation
The experience and reputation of the surgeon performing the procedure play a crucial role in determining the cost. Surgeons who specialize in facial cosmetic procedures and have a track record of successful chin liposuctions may charge higher fees. However, investing in a qualified and reputable surgeon can significantly impact the quality of the results and reduce the risk of complications.
3. Type of Anesthesia Used
Chin liposuction can be performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia. The type of anesthesia chosen can affect the overall cost of the procedure. General anesthesia usually requires an anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist, adding to the expense. Local anesthesia with sedation is often more cost-effective but may not be suitable for all patients, depending on their comfort level and the extent of the procedure.
4. Facility Fees and Equipment Costs
The facility where the procedure is performed also impacts the cost. Accredited surgical centers or hospitals typically charge higher fees than private clinics due to the overhead costs associated with maintaining a larger staff and state-of-the-art equipment. Additionally, the use of advanced liposuction technologies, such as laser-assisted liposuction (SmartLipo) or ultrasound-assisted liposuction (VASER), may increase the overall cost but could offer more precise results and a quicker recovery time.
5. Pre- and Post-Operative Care
Costs associated with chin liposuction are not limited to the procedure itself. Pre-operative consultations, medical tests, and post-operative care, including medications, compression garments, and follow-up appointments, contribute to the total cost. Some clinics offer comprehensive packages that include these services, while others may charge separately, making it crucial to clarify what's included upfront.
Average Cost of Chin Liposuction in Different Regions
To provide a better understanding of what to expect, here is an overview of the average cost of chin liposuction in various regions:
United States
East Coast (New York, Boston, Miami): $3,500 - $6,000
West Coast (Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle): $4,000 - $7,000
Midwest (Chicago, Dallas, Denver): $3,000 - $5,500
South (Atlanta, Houston, New Orleans): $2,800 - $5,000
United Kingdom
London and Major Cities: £2,500 - £5,000
Smaller Cities and Towns: £2,000 - £4,000
Canada
Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal: CAD $3,000 - CAD $6,000
Other Cities: CAD $2,500 - CAD $5,000
Australia
Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane: AUD $3,500 - AUD $7,000
Other Regions: AUD $3,000 - AUD $6,000
Asia
Hong Kong, Singapore, Tokyo: $2,500 - $5,000
Other Regions (India, Thailand): $1,500 - $3,000
These prices are averages and can vary widely depending on the specific circumstances of each patient and the factors outlined earlier.
Is Chin Liposuction Worth the Cost?
Chin liposuction is generally considered a worthwhile investment for those seeking a more defined and youthful chin and neck profile. The procedure is particularly effective for individuals with stubborn fat deposits that do not respond to diet and exercise. When evaluating the cost, it is essential to consider the long-term benefits, such as improved self-esteem, enhanced appearance, and the potential to avoid future cosmetic procedures.
Benefits of Chin Liposuction
Immediate and Noticeable Results: Unlike non-surgical treatments, chin liposuction offers immediate results, with most swelling subsiding within a few weeks.
Minimal Downtime: Recovery time is relatively short, often allowing patients to return to normal activities within a week.
Long-Lasting Effects: The results of chin liposuction are generally long-lasting, especially if the patient maintains a stable weight and healthy lifestyle.
Enhanced Facial Contour: Chin liposuction provides a more defined jawline and neck profile, significantly enhancing overall facial aesthetics.
How to Prepare for the Cost of Chin Liposuction
1. Consult with Multiple Surgeons
Before deciding on a surgeon, consult with several professionals to compare their expertise, recommendations, and costs. This step allows you to make an informed decision and find a surgeon whose approach aligns with your goals and budget.
2. Understand the Full Scope of Costs
Request a detailed breakdown of all associated costs, including the surgeon's fee, anesthesia, facility fees, and post-operative care. Understanding the full scope of costs upfront will help avoid unexpected expenses and ensure the procedure fits within your budget.
3. Explore Financing Options
Many clinics offer financing options to make chin liposuction more affordable. These may include payment plans, medical credit cards, or third-party financing companies that specialize in healthcare loans. Explore these options to determine the best way to manage the cost without compromising on quality.
4. Consider Comprehensive Packages
Some clinics offer all-inclusive packages covering everything from pre-operative consultations to post-operative care. While these packages may seem more expensive initially, they often provide better value by bundling services and reducing the likelihood of hidden costs.
Final Thoughts: Making an Informed Decision
Chin liposuction can be a transformative procedure for those looking to improve their facial contours and achieve a more defined jawline. However, the cost can vary significantly based on several factors, including location, surgeon's expertise, anesthesia, facility fees, and additional care costs. By thoroughly researching and consulting with qualified surgeons, potential patients can better understand the financial commitment involved and make an informed decision that aligns with their aesthetic goals and budget.
Understanding these details will ensure that your investment in chin liposuction is both financially and aesthetically rewarding, providing you with a renewed sense of confidence and satisfaction with your appearance.
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Atlanta couple’s conjoined twin daughters, fused at the heart, lived for just 1 hour: ‘Gift from God’
New Post has been published on https://sa7ab.info/2024/08/16/atlanta-couples-conjoined-twin-daughters-fused-at-the-heart-lived-for-just-1-hour-gift-from-god/
Atlanta couple’s conjoined twin daughters, fused at the heart, lived for just 1 hour: ‘Gift from God’
Breana Dell was able to hold her newborn twins, Amelia Jane and Elhora Auri, for just one hour after they were born on Feb. 29 — but every minute was filled with “peace” and “awe,” she said.Three months before that, at 17 weeks of pregnancy, she and her husband, Matthew Dell, had gotten an ultrasound to learn the gender of what they thought was one baby.The Atlanta couple was shocked to discover the single heartbeat on the monitor was shared by two girls. The conjoined twins were fused at the torso.PREGNANT WOMAN WITH BRAIN CANCER REFUSES ABORTION”Everything changed in that moment,” Dell, 24, a stay-at-home mom, told Fox News Digital during a phone interview. “I started to panic and cry.”Doctors told the couple there was little-to-no chance of separating the twins — which meant there would be little-to-no chance of their survival. “Because of how their heart was conjoined, it would just be too complicated,” Dell said.The couple saw numerous specialists for MRIs and other exams.NEW JERSEY TWINS RECEIVE MATCHING HEART SURGERIES AFTER MARFAN SYNDROME DIAGNOSIS: ‘A BETTER LIFE'”It was lots and lots of appointments, in hopes that they would be wrong and that something could be done — but it didn’t work out that way,” Dell said.The month before the twins were born, a cardiologist confirmed that there would be no way of separating the twins, and they would probably not survive.”Their heart literally was one unit,” Dell said. “I got the question a lot: ‘Can’t you just save one of them?’ It wasn’t possible, because they couldn’t live without each other.”With that tough news, the Dells focused on preparing for delivery and all the different outcomes they might face.”Northside Hospital [in Atlanta] was amazing,” Dell said. “They were so kind and considerate of our situation and our family.”Dell, who already had a 1-year-old son, Dallas, was offered the choice of having an abortion — but she said it was “never even a thought.””Our thought process was always, ‘What can we do to save them and keep them,’” she said.”Our faith was the biggest factor in the decision we made,” she added. “I don’t know how anybody could get through a situation like that without having faith.”Despite the twins’ prognosis, Dell said, she believes they were a gift from God who came to them for a reason.”When I was first told that they were conjoined, it was just this bubble of devastation, sadness, confusion, uncertainty and fear,” she recalled.”But nobody can predict the future perfectly, and you just never know what the outcome will be.”As the pregnancy progressed, however, Dell said she faced tough emotional struggles.EXPERIMENTAL CANCER TREATMENT GIVES NEW JERSEY MOM A CHANCE FOR A SECOND BABY: ‘I DECIDED TO GO FOR IT’”I had severe anxiety attacks,” she said. “I knew what the outcome would be — but you can’t really prepare yourself for that.”She went on, “Toward the end of my pregnancy, I had severe brain fog, my stomach was in knots, and I knew my body was trying to tell me, ‘Hey, you’re not OK.”Amelia Jane Dell and Elhora Auri Dell were born on Feb. 29 at 7:37 a.m.They each weighed 3.5 pounds.The girls came into the world the same way they had appeared in the later ultrasounds — with their arms wrapped around each other.”It was actually really sweet the way they were conjoined — they were holding each other from the moment they were alive, just in a big hug,” Dell said.”It was amazing to see how their little bodies were still working,” she went on. “They didn’t move a whole lot or open their eyes — but just to know that they were there, and that I held them alive, brought a sense of peace … I couldn’t imagine not getting to meet them.”Conjoined twins are rare, occurring in one of every 50,000 to 200,000 births, statistics show.The condition results from a single fertilized egg dividing into two embryos more than 13 days after fertilization, according to StatPearls, a medical resource on the U.S. National Library of Medicine’s website.They are about three times more likely to affect female babies than males.‘MIRACLE TWINS’ ARE BORN TO ALABAMA WOMAN WITH DOUBLE UTERUS: ‘TRUE MEDICAL SURPRISE’”The classification of conjoined twins is based on the location of their connection and the organs they share,” Dr. Marschall Runge, MD, PhD, CEO of Michigan Medicine — who did not treat Dell or the babies — told Fox News Digital.”Survival rates vary significantly depending on the ability to successfully separate shared organs.” Twins who share a heart or components of the brain have the highest mortality rates, the doctor noted.”Even if they survive the initial separation, many face long-term health challenges and may require additional surgeries,” Runge said. The overall survival rate for conjoined twins after separation is approximately 75%, but this can vary greatly depending on several factors, according to the doctor.23 SETS OF TWINS GRADUATE FROM ONE MASSACHUSETTS MIDDLE SCHOOL: ‘EXTRAORDINARILY HIGH NUMBER’A majority of conjoined twins (28%) are fused at the thorax (torso) and abdomen, StatPearls states.Another 18.5% are joined at the thorax and 10% are joined at the abdomen.In 10% of cases, there is a heteropagus (parasitic twin), in which one twin is less developed than the other.In 6% of cases, the twins are joined at the cranium.Throughout their journey, the Dells said they received a great deal of support from their family, friends and church, as well as people reaching out on social media.”We have an amazing church family that has surrounded us in love and prayers,” Dell said. She also created a Facebook page for the girls, where people rallied around the family and sent messages of encouragement and love. CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTERAfter their time with the babies came to an end, the Dells were faced with a long road to healing and recovery.”It comes and goes,” Dell said. “Sometimes I feel OK, and then I’ll have really hard moments, hard days or even hard weeks.”She also said, “I definitely miss my babies.”For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews/healthThe Dells are planning to grow their family in the future.”We definitely want more children,” Dell told Fox News Digital.A previous conjoined twin pregnancy does not increase the risk of a recurrence, according to StatPearls.Fox News Digital reached out to Northside Hospital in Atlanta for comment.
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[ad_1] A Los Angeles-based developer is giving new life to a shuttered Hilton Resort in Houston. Bryan Kang’s Dos Lagos Asset filed paperwork detailing plans for adaptive reuse of the previous 292-room Hilton Houston Galleria at 6780 Southwest Freeway. A multifamily complicated is deliberate, however the variety of models wasn’t included within the submitting. Conversion of the 200,000-square-foot, 13-story constructing has an estimated value of $40 million. Dallas-based design agency Huitt Zollars is hooked up to the venture. Building is predicted to start out in April, with an estimated completion date in September 2025. Kang was commissioner of the Los Angeles Division of Transportation from 2012 to 2014 however has since turned to the world of actual property. In 2019, he bought an workplace constructing in Orange County for $13.4 million, in accordance with Traded LA. Earlier than becoming a member of politics and actual property, Kang was the CEO of the wholesale merchandiser Rhapsody Clothes, which offered to shops throughout North America, in addition to South Korean retailer Residence Plus. Rhapsody Clothes closed in 2019, in accordance with California enterprise data. Makes an attempt to succeed in Kang had been unsuccessful. Initially constructed in 1978 and reworked in 2016, the Hilton Houston Galleria has been vacant since its lender foreclosed on the property in 2022. The lodge had closed due to the pandemic. It stays actual estate-owned, in accordance with the Harris County Appraisal District. Its 2023 assessed worth was $7.2 million. Resort-to-resi conversions are a burgeoning enterprise in Houston’s business actual property scene. Because the Bayou Metropolis’s hospitality market has seen deflation post-pandemic, as depressed occupancy charges and mortgage delinquencies shake the market. Trepp ranked Houston’s lodge market because the nation’s worst final yr. Whereas office-to-resi conversions make the headlines, hotel-to-resi reuse developments comprise 58 % of Houston’s conversion market, in accordance with RentCafe. The Houston Housing Authority, in collaboration with Columbia Residential, is changing a dilapidated Vacation Inn at 2100 Memorial Drive, lengthy an eyesore close to Buffalo Bayou, into an reasonably priced 197-unit senior dwelling complicated. Resort-to-resi developer Shir Capital acquired the defunct Wyndham Resort at 14703 Park Row in 2022. It's planning to open Teak Dwelling, a rental neighborhood, by the tip of this quarter. Learn extra [ad_2] Supply hyperlink
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Finding Relief for Hand and Wrist Pain in Dallas: Your Guide to a Specialist's Care.
Life can be challenging when hand and wrist pain hinder your ability to perform everyday tasks. Whether it's due to a recent injury, a chronic condition, or an unexplained ache, seeking the expertise of a hand and wrist doctor is the foremost step toward seeing relief and regaining your quality of life. In this article, we will explore the common causes of hand and wrist pain, the importance of specialized care, and how to choose the right doctor to address your unique needs.
Understanding Hand and Wrist Pain
Before delving into the details of finding a hand and wrist surgeon in Dallas, it's essential to understand the complexities of hand and wrist pain. These intricate structures are composed of bones, muscles, ligaments, and tendons, all working together to give us agility and the ability to manipulate objects precisely. When any part of this delicate system is compromised, it can lead to pain, discomfort, and a decreased range of motion.
Common Causes of Hand and Wrist Pain
1. Trauma and Injuries: Accidents and falls can result in fractures, dislocations, or sprains in the hand and wrist. These damages often require immediate medical attention to avoid long-term complications.
2. Overuse and Repetitive Strain: Certain occupations or hobbies may require repetitive hand and wrist movements, leading to overuse injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome or tendonitis.
3. Arthritis: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis can cause rash, pain, and immobility in the hand and wrist joints.
4. Nerve Compression: Conditions like carpal underpass syndrome can squeeze the median nerve, causing pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand.
5. Tendon and Ligament Problems: Conditions like De Quervain's tenosynovitis or ligament injuries can lead to pain and reduced function.
The Importance of Specialized Care
Regarding hand and wrist pain, specialized care is essential for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. General practitioners may provide initial care, but for complex or chronic issues, consulting a hand and wrist Surgeon is highly recommended. Here's why specialized care is crucial:
1. Expertise: Hand and wrist specialists have extensive knowledge of the intricate anatomy and function of these complex structures. They can diagnose and treat conditions that may be challenging for a general practitioner.
2. Personalized Treatment Plans: Specialized doctors can create tailored treatment programs to address your exact needs, considering factors like your age, activity level, and overall health.
3. Minimized Risks: Specialized care minimizes the risk of misdiagnosis and ensures that you receive the most appropriate treatment from the outset.
4. Faster Recovery: A hand and wrist doctor's expertise often leads to faster recovery and a quicker return to normal activities.
Choosing the Right Hand and Wrist Doctor
Finding the right Hand and Wrist Doctor in Dallas may seem overwhelming, but with a systematic approach, you can make an informed decision. Here are some required actions to consider:
1. Referrals: Begin by requesting your immediate care physician for recommendations. They can refer you to a reputable hand and wrist specialist.
2. Research and Credentials: Research potential doctors online to learn about their qualifications and credentials. Look for board certification in hand surgery or orthopedic surgery, as well as positive patient reviews.
3. Experience: Consider the doctor's experience and the number of similar cases they have handled. More knowledge often leads to better outcomes.
4. Communication: Effective communication is vital. Choose a doctor who takes the time to listen to your concerns and explains your condition and treatment options clearly.
5. Hospital Affiliation: Check which hospitals the doctor is affiliated with, and make sure they have access to state-of-the-art facilities.
6. Insurance Coverage: Confirm that the doctor accepts your insurance, or inquire about payment options if you are uninsured or have a high deductible plan.
7. Consultation: Schedule an initial consultation with the doctor to discuss your condition, ask questions, and evaluate their approach to your care.
8. Second Opinions: Don't hesitate to seek a second opinion if you are uncertain about a diagnosis or treatment plan. It's your health, and you have the right to explore different perspectives.
Treatment Options
Once you've chosen the right-hand doctor in Dallas, they will assess your condition and advise a treatment plan. Depending on the nature of your state, various treatment options may be considered:
1. Conservative Treatments: Non-invasive approaches, such as rest, physical therapy, splinting, and medication, may be recommended for mild to moderate conditions.
2. Injections: Corticosteroid injections can reduce inflammation and relieve pain in certain conditions.
3. Surgical Interventions: If conservative treatments are ineffective or in severe cases, surgical procedures may be required to repair damaged structures.
4. Rehabilitation: Post-surgery or injury, rehabilitation may be essential to regain strength and function. Your doctor will work closely with you to create a rehabilitation plan.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Recovery from hand and wrist injuries or surgeries can vary based on the individual and the harshness of the situation. Your wrist doctor in Dallas will guide post-operative care and rehabilitation exercises to ensure the best possible outcome. It's essential to follow their instructions carefully and attend all follow-up appointments for a successful recovery.
Preventing Future Hand and Wrist Issues
Preventing hand and wrist issues is always better than seeking treatment. Here are some tips to minimize the risk of developing hand and wrist problems:
1. Keep a Fit Lifestyle: A balanced diet, regular activity, and healthy weight can reduce the risk of arthritis and other chronic conditions.
2. Ergonomics: If your job involves repetitive hand movements, ensure your workspace is ergonomically designed to reduce strain.
3. Stretching and Strengthening: Incorporate hand and wrist exercises into your daily routine to maintain strength and flexibility.
4. Protective Gear: If you participate in sports or activities that involve hand and wrist movements, use appropriate protective gear to prevent injuries.
Conclusion
Hand and wrist pain can significantly impact your quality of life, making it crucial to seek the expertise of a hand and wrist surgeon when faced with such issues. Specialized care offers the best chance for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. Tracking the actions summarized in this article, you can find the right doctor to address your unique needs and embark on a path to recovery and improved quality of life. Don't let hand and wrist pain hold you back; seek the help you deserve today.
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ExAblate® Receives European CE Mark for Treatment of Adenomyosis
Non-invasive procedure now available where options were limited; InSightec innovation continues to expand treatment choice in Women’s HealthTIRAT CARMEL, Israel (June 23, 2010) -- InSightec Ltd. announced today that its ExAblate® system has received an expanded CE Mark certification for “ablation of soft tissue for treatment of benign tumors, including uterine fibroids and adenomyosis” using Magnetic Resonance guided Focused Ultrasound (MRgFUS) technology. The certification was granted on the basis of clinical evidence showing that focused ultrasound is safe and effective in treating symptomatic adenomyosis, which included published data of patients with the condition. The certification body KEMA Quality agreed that treatment with InSightec’s system resulted in statistically significant improvement in subjective symptoms, and significant volume reduction of the treated mass.Adenomyosis is a benign gynecologic growth characterised by the presence of ectopic endometrial glands and stroma in the myometrium and hyperplasia (excessive cell reproduction) of adjacent smooth muscles. It manifests with uterine myoma-mimicking symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pain, and diffuse uterine enlargement. Women with this condition are unlikely to conceive.“Patients who suffer from Adenomyosis and want to preserve their uterus have had few viable options in the past,” said Dr. Jaron Rabinovici, Vice-Chair, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sheba Medical Center. “Adenomyosis may have a grave impact on a woman’s health and quality of life and until recently hysterectomy was the only accepted treatment involving adverse effects and hospitalization. Another treatment option is medication, which offered only temporary relief of symptoms and had its own set of side effects. The availability of this procedure is a welcome development for women living with this condition, because it means they now have a treatment choice that is non-invasive, safe and effective. More importantly, women who underwent this non-invasive option for adenomyosis conceived and delivered subsequently healthy children.” “ExAblate® has been used to treat uterine fibroids non-invasively with great success since 2004, and this expanded CE Mark represents a significant milestone in our commitment to continually broaden the applications of this non-invasive, innovative therapy in addressing women’s health ” said Dr. Kobi Vortman, President and CEO of InSightec. “This procedure is done on an outpatient basis, patients can return to work the next day, and complications are rare. The clinical and economic advantages of ExAblate® allow for enhanced access to treatment – and improved quality of life - for more women.”While fibroids and adenomyosis are both non-cancerous tumours of the uterus, fibroids grow out from the uterine wall, and adenomyosis originates from swelling of the uterine wall as a result of the penetration of endometrial tissue. While a fibroid is distinct from the uterine wall and can be removed, adenomyoma cannot be removed without actually removing the involved uterine muscle. Clear-cut surgical excision of the whole adenomyosis lesion is difficult because of its ambiguous boundary.About InSightec InSightec Ltd. is a privately-held company owned by Elbit Imaging, General Electric, MediTech Advisors, LLC and employees. It was founded in 1999 to develop the breakthrough MR guided Focused Ultrasound technology and transform it into the next generation operating room. Headquartered near Haifa, Israel, the company has over 160 employees and has invested more than $130 million in research, development, and clinical investigations. Its U.S. headquarters are located in Dallas, Texas. For more information, please go to: http://www.insightec.com/About ExAblate® ExAblate is the first system to use the MR guided focused ultrasound technology that combines MRI – to visualize the body anatomy, plan the treatment and monitor treatment outcome in real time – and high intensity focused ultrasound to thermally ablate tumors inside the body non-invasively. MR thermometry, provided uniquely by the system, allows the physician to control and adjust the treatment in real time to ensure that the targeted tumor is fully treated and surrounding tissue is spared. The ExAblate system was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2004 as a treatment for symptomatic uterine fibroids. Over 6,000 women have been treated worldwide to date. ExAblate® 2000 received the European CE Mark for pain palliation of bone metastases in June 2007. Find out more: https://timesnews7.com Read the full article
#Adenomyosis#chrissymetzweightloss#diettips#European#ExAblate#health#healthtips#loseweightfast#Mark#rebelwilsonweightloss#Receives#Treatment#weightlose#weightlossdiet#weightlosstips
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Work Visa Attorney Dallas/Irving TX: H-1 C Visa For Nurses
Getting an H-1C visa is not something a nurse should do on their own. If you’re a foreign nurse who wishes to apply your skills in the U.S., you’ll need to elicit help from an attorney.
So, how does this happen?
Contact A Work Visa Attorney Dallas/Irving Based Professional If you’re planning to reside and work in the Dallas/Irving TX metro area, you need to contact a work visa attorney in Dallas/Irving TX based firm about the H-1C visa process.
To address the shortfall of competent nurses in certain places in the U.S., the Nursing Relief for Disadvantaged Areas Act (NRDAA) established the H-1C program in 1999.
The U.S. Department of Labor has concluded that there is a temporary nursing shortage in the country, so this law permits foreign nurses to temporarily work as RNs in those areas.
Nationally, only 500 nurses can be given H-1C status in a fiscal year. In addition, there are numerical restrictions for each state based on its population.
Preparing For The Journey To qualify for an H-1C visa, a nurse from another country must have:
An unrestricted nurse’s license from where they finished their nursing program; or Received nursing training in the U.S. In addition, the qualified visa candidate must meet the following criteria:
Have authorization from the U.S. State Board of Nursing in Texas; Successfully passed the exam that the Commission on Graduates for Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS) gives; Have a fully unrestricted license to practice as a registered nurse (RN) in Texas; or Have a fully unrestricted RN license in the U.S. State and have temporary authorization to practice in this capacity in Texas RNs who are not U.S. citizens must also be fully qualified, under the laws where they’ll work (in this case, Texas) and have authorization to work under the law by the hospital. They must also be screened for an H1-C visa.
If you’re a citizen of a foreign country and wish to work as a nurse in the U.S., getting an H1-C visa is a priority. With an immigration attorney’s help, you can change your non-immigrant status to immigrant status so you can stay in the U.S. permanently.
The H1-C visa is the result of a coordinated effort of the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration (USCIS). Each H1-C visa requires a prospective employer to file a petition with the USCIS, which must be approved before the nurse can apply for a work visa.
As you can see obtaining a visa as a nurse is complicated. That is why you need to confer with an immigration attorney.
Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility Your attorney will walk you through all the necessary steps of the H1-C process after it’s confirmed that you meet the requirements for eligibility.
Again, in basic terms, you can proceed if:
You’re an RN with a license from your home country or the US; Have a job offer from a hospital in an underserved area; Meet the training, licensing, and educational requirements of the state Step 2: Obtain A Sponsor An essential part of securing an H1-C visa is finding an employer to sponsor your application. Focus on hospitals that are currently experiencing nursing shortages in Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs).
Once you obtain a job offer, your sponsoring employer will need to submit an I-129 Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker form on your behalf.
Step 3: Apply For The H1-C Visa After your employer submits an I-129 form, you’ll need to file for an H1-C visa at your nearest U.S. consulate or embassy by submitting the DS-160 Nonimmigrant Visa Application form online.
You’ll also need your valid passport, a passport-sized photograph, and a copy of your I-129 petition receipt notice from USCIS.
Again, nurses trained outside of the U.S. must also provide verification of their foreign education credentials through the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS) International.
Step 4: Schedule Your Visa Interview Once your DS-160 form is submitted, schedule a visa interview at your closest U.S. embassy or consulate. Arrive prepared with your receipt numbers, and all required documentation, and be prepared to answer questions about your education, work history, and reasons for pursuing work in the U.S.
Step 5: Receive Approval After a successful interview, your H1-C visa will be granted and stamped in your passport. You’re now free to travel to the United States to begin your new job as an H1-C nurse.
Remember that this visa category has a cap of 500 H1-C visas per fiscal year, so timely filing is crucial.
Talk To A Work Visa Attorney In Dallas/Irving TX Based Firm Today Are you seeking an H1-C visa? If so, now is the time to schedule a time to speak to a work visa attorney in Dallas/Irving TX based firm now. The slots for gaining the visa are small, so there is no time like the present to follow your career goals and dreams. Contact the Rijal Law firm to get your visa and begin now.
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Why Choosing a Midwife in Dallas, TX Can Enhance Your Birth Experience
For many expecting parents, childbirth is one of the most significant and life-changing events. The decision of who will support you during this process is just as crucial as the birth itself. While some families opt for an obstetrician in a hospital setting, others prefer the care and guidance of a midwife, believing it offers a more personalized and holistic approach. In Dallas, TX, midwives provide a unique set of services that can enhance your birth experience, whether you’re planning a home birth, water birth, or a hospital birth with midwifery care.
In this article, we’ll explore why choosing a midwife in Dallas, TX, can offer a more fulfilling and empowering birth experience, as well as the advantages of midwifery care, how it differs from traditional hospital births, and what you can expect when working with a midwife in Dallas.
What Is Midwifery Care?
Midwifery care is a type of maternal care provided by trained midwives who are specialists in pregnancy, labor, delivery, and postpartum care. Unlike obstetricians, who often focus on medical management of birth, a midwife Dallas TX takes a more holistic and personalized approach, emphasizing natural birth and reducing the need for medical interventions unless they are absolutely necessary.
In Dallas, midwives are available in a variety of settings, including home births, birth centers, and hospital-based care. They offer comprehensive prenatal care, labor support, and postpartum visits, creating an experience that prioritizes comfort, empowerment, and informed decision-making for the expecting family.
The Benefits of Choosing a Midwife in Dallas, TX
1. Personalized and Compassionate Care
One of the key advantages of choosing a midwife Dallas TX is the highly personalized and compassionate care they provide. Midwives often spend more time with their clients during prenatal appointments, offering the opportunity for in-depth discussions about your health, preferences, and any concerns you may have. The longer visits allow you to develop a trusting relationship with your midwife, which can greatly enhance your sense of security and comfort leading up to the birth.
Midwives approach each pregnancy individually, tailoring their care to suit the unique needs and wishes of the expecting mother. Whether you want a completely natural, intervention-free birth or a more medically assisted approach, your midwife will work with you to design a birth plan that aligns with your values and goals.
2. Low-Intervention Births and a Focus on Natural Birth
If you’re looking for a more natural, low-intervention birth, midwifery care can offer significant advantages. Midwives emphasize allowing labor to progress naturally, without the use of unnecessary medical interventions such as epidurals, episiotomies, or induced labor, unless medically necessary. This is especially appealing to families who want to avoid certain medical procedures or feel that a natural approach to birth is more in line with their philosophy.
While midwives are fully trained to recognize complications and manage emergencies if they arise, their approach to birth is grounded in supporting the body’s natural ability to give birth without unnecessary medical intervention. This can result in a more satisfying, less stressful experience for many families.
3. Holistic Approach to Pregnancy and Birth
Midwifery care in Dallas emphasizes a holistic approach to pregnancy and childbirth. This means that midwives take into account the physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being of the mother throughout the pregnancy and birth process. They often incorporate complementary therapies such as nutrition counseling, exercise plans, prenatal yoga, and even acupuncture into their care.
A holistic approach also includes focusing on the mental and emotional aspects of pregnancy, helping you prepare for the birth mentally and emotionally in addition to physically. Midwives often provide continuous support and encouragement during labor, helping mothers feel empowered, relaxed, and capable of handling the challenges of childbirth.
4. Support for Non-Hospital Births: Home Births and Birth Centers
For families who prefer to give birth outside of a hospital setting, Dallas offers several midwifery options for home births or birth center births. Choosing a home birth with a midwife Dallas TX offers the comfort and privacy of your own home, allowing you to labor in a familiar and comfortable environment. Midwives who attend home births are highly trained in managing both normal and complicated births, ensuring that you have the necessary support if issues arise.
Birth centers, on the other hand, offer a warm, welcoming, and homelike setting with professional care in a facility equipped for childbirth. Many families find that birth centers provide the best of both worlds—natural, personalized care with access to medical equipment and expertise if complications arise. Midwives at birth centers often provide more intimate care than in a traditional hospital setting, with the added benefit of fewer interventions.
5. Continuous Labor Support and Low Stress Environment
One of the biggest advantages of working with a midwife during labor is the continuous support throughout the entire process. Unlike in many hospital settings, where the focus can shift between multiple patients and doctors, midwives provide consistent, one-on-one care. This continuous support during labor helps reduce stress, anxiety, and fear, which can often slow the progress of labor.
Many midwives in Dallas are skilled at helping women cope with pain through techniques such as breathing exercises, massage, and relaxation techniques, offering comfort and reassurance. With midwifery care, the goal is not only to ensure a healthy birth for both mother and baby, but also to empower the mother, making her feel in control and confident in her choices.
6. Postpartum Care and Emotional Support
The care you receive after the birth of your baby is just as important as the care leading up to it, and midwives are known for their thorough postpartum support. After the birth, midwives often provide several postpartum visits to ensure that the mother is recovering well, both physically and emotionally. They monitor the mother’s recovery, offer breastfeeding support, and provide guidance on newborn care.
For many families, the emotional support midwives offer in the postpartum period is invaluable. The postpartum period can be overwhelming, and having a midwife there to guide and reassure you can make a world of difference. Midwives often provide a more intimate level of care during this time, helping mothers feel confident in their new roles and adjust to life with their newborn.
7. Fewer C-Sections and Lower Medical Interventions
Studies have shown that midwifery care often results in fewer cesarean sections and fewer medical interventions compared to standard obstetric care. Midwives typically offer less medical intervention during labor, such as fewer inductions or the use of pain medications. For mothers who are seeking a less medicalized birth experience, this can be a major advantage.
While complications can still occur in midwifery care, midwives are well-trained in identifying potential issues early and collaborating with doctors and hospitals when necessary. Many midwives work in partnership with obstetricians and are prepared to transfer care to a hospital if complications arise, ensuring both the mother and baby’s safety.
What to Expect When Working with a Midwife in Dallas, TX
When you choose a midwife in Dallas, you can expect a higher level of personalized care than you might receive in a traditional hospital setting. You will have the opportunity to develop a close relationship with your midwife, who will be with you throughout your pregnancy, labor, delivery, and postpartum period.
During your prenatal visits, you’ll have ample time to discuss your birth plan, ask questions, and address any concerns. Your midwife will provide information and guidance to help you make informed decisions about your pregnancy and birth. Depending on your preferences, your midwife may also assist you with pain management strategies, such as massage, breathing techniques, or hypnobirthing.
Throughout labor, your midwife will be by your side, offering support and comfort, whether you’re laboring at home, in a birth center, or in the hospital. After your baby is born, your midwife will ensure both you and your baby are healthy, offer postpartum support, and provide guidance on breastfeeding and newborn care.
Conclusion
Choosing a midwife in Dallas, TX, can enhance your birth experience by providing you with personalized, compassionate, and holistic care throughout your pregnancy and childbirth. Whether you’re seeking a natural birth, a supportive environment, or a hands-on approach to prenatal care, midwives offer numerous benefits that can help you feel empowered, informed, and supported during this transformative time. By choosing a midwife, you’re not just selecting a birth provider—you’re selecting a trusted partner to guide you through one of life’s most important and beautiful experiences.
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