Hilary Topper On Air

Hilary Topper on Air is for the small business owner to grow personally and professionally.

Dynamic Triathlete - What is it and who can benefit? 12/05/2025

The Corona Protocol - How Psychiatry is Changing 11/21/2025

Revolutionizing Running with BreathRunner 11/07/2025

Matt Fitzgerald's Chasing Mastery 10/24/2025

Dr. Sabrina Strickland on Staying Active After Injuries 10/10/2025

Transforming Confidence with Dr. Irena Karanetz of Evolve Plastic Surgery 09/26/2025

Transforming Confidence with Dr. Irena Karanetz of Evolve Plastic Surgery On this enlightening episode of the podcast, we had the privilege of speaking with Dr. Irena Karanetz, board-certified plastic surgeon and co-founder of Evolve Plastic Surgery in Queens. Dr. Karanetz shared her expert insights into cutting-edge cosmetic and reconstructive procedures, emphasizing her dedication to providing compassionate, personalized care. From Botox and fillers to breast reconstruction and non-surgical innovations, the conversation underscored how the right approach can transform not only appearances but also confidence. Botox and Fillers Unpacked Dr. Karanetz explained how injectables like Botox and fillers offer effective, minimally invasive ways to achieve natural-looking enhancements. Botox softens fine lines, while fillers restore lost volume and shape to areas like the cheeks, lips, and under-eye hollows. She made it clear that these treatments are not a one-size-fits-all solution. Instead, she customizes each plan to ensure her patients achieve subtle, rejuvenated results that enhance their natural beauty. The Art and Science of Breast Reconstruction One of the key topics covered was breast reconstruction, an area where Dr. Karanetz holds advanced fellowship training. She detailed how this deeply personal procedure helps patients regain a sense of wholeness after experiences like mastectomies. From implants to fat transfers and everything in between, her focus is on tailoring results to each individual’s unique anatomy and desires. Dr. Karanetz also shared insights into cosmetic breast surgeries, such as augmentations and lifts. Her commitment to understanding patients' ultimate goals makes her approach stand out. Surgical and Non-Surgical Options for Every Need At Evolve Plastic Surgery, patients have access to an impressive range of aesthetic treatments. Dr. Karanetz spotlighted diverse offerings, from tummy tucks and liposuction to non-surgical options like Morpheus8, a game-changing treatment for skin tightening and collagen stimulation. The practice also offers cutting-edge solutions such as FaceTite for facial contouring and Renuvion for advanced skin rejuvenation. No matter the procedure, Evolve Plastic Surgery is committed to results that blend artistry and precision, helping patients feel more confident in their skin. Patient-First Philosophy Throughout the episode, Dr. Karanetz’s patient-first approach took center stage. She described how she takes the time to fully understand each individual’s concerns, carefully educating them on their options and empowering them to make informed decisions. Her compassionate demeanor and meticulous attention to detail make every consultation a thoughtful, personalized experience. Patient testimonials confirm her outstanding care. Words like “caring,” “life-changing,” and “outstanding results” speak to the level of trust and gratitude her patients have for her and her team. Start Your Journey with Evolve Plastic Surgery If you’re considering Botox, fillers, breast reconstruction, or any other aesthetic procedure, Dr. Irena Karanetz and the team at Evolve Plastic Surgery are ready to guide you through every step. Their expertise, combined with a deep commitment to individual care, ensures results that elevate confidence and celebrate natural beauty. Discover more about Evolve Plastic Surgery by visiting or calling the office to schedule your personalized consultation today. Your transformation begins with compassionate care and expert artistry. /episode/index/show/hilarytopperonair/id/37042780

Learn About TriDot and RunDot and Get 2 Months FREE! 09/12/2025

Revolutionizing Knee Pain Relief with KneeMo® 08/22/2025

Why Every Triathlete Needs a Plan Beyond the Finish Line 08/08/2025

Grinnell "Buzz" Desjarlais, Author of Saving KC 07/25/2025

The Traveling Triathlete 07/11/2025

The Traveling Triathlete How do you combine your passion for triathlon with a love for travel? On this episode, we're discovering the perfect balance between training, adventure, and cultural exploration. Join me, as I share my travel stories—from skiing in the Pyrenees mountains of Spain for cross-training to swimming in the stunning Caribbean Sea and planning my next trip to the breathtaking Galapagos Islands. We're also sitting down with Monica Gould, a seasoned traveler and marathoner who recently completed the iconic Tokyo Marathon. Monica shares her experiences running through the vibrant streets of Tokyo and extending her adventure to explore the serene temples of Japan and the vibrant life of Thailand. Get inspired as she tells us how traveling for her passion has added new depth to her running and personal life. This episode is about going beyond your comfort zone, making the most of your travels as an athlete, and discovering the incredible rewards of adapting your training to new environments. Whether running ancient paths, swimming in tropical waters, or cycling through mountain ranges, every trip brings an opportunity to grow, both on and off the course. What’s Inside: Tips for blending travel with triathlon training Stories of skiing, swimming, and running across the globe Monica Gould’s inspiring Tokyo Marathon and cultural adventures A sneak peek into upcoming adventures like the Galapagos Islands Join the Journey: Travel doesn’t mean putting off your athletic goals; it’s a chance to thrive, explore, and create unforgettable memories. Tune in to hear how you can transform your travels into a fulfilling part of your fitness lifestyle. Call-to-Action: Subscribe now to Hilary Topper on Air on Apple Podcasts (or your favorite platform), and don’t forget to leave a review! We’d love to hear your travel and training stories—tag us on social media or drop us a message. Who knows? You might even be featured in an upcoming episode! Follow Us: Stay connected for more travel tips, athlete stories, and behind-the-scenes updates. Happy training and safe travels! /episode/index/show/hilarytopperonair/id/36039460

Tackling the Bunion 06/27/2025

Tackling the Bunion Bunions may be small, but they can greatly impact your performance as a runner or triathlete. On this episode of Hilary Topper On Air, we’re joined by Dr. Ebonie Vincent, a renowned podiatrist and expert in foot health, to tackle this important topic. Dr. Vincent brings a wealth of experience and insight, having spent her career helping patients overcome foot-related challenges. You may recognize her from the hit TV show My Feet Are Killing Me, where she transforms lives through her specialized care. Today, we’re focusing on a common yet misunderstood condition that affects many athletes: bunions. We’ll break down everything you need to know, including how bunions impact your gait and endurance, common misconceptions, and practical strategies to manage or prevent them. Whether you’re training for a marathon or triathlon or want to keep your feet in top condition, this episode is packed with tips and advice you won’t want to miss. What’s Inside: Dr. Ebonie Vincent’s expertise in podiatry and her approach to foot health The science behind bunions and how they affect athletes Myths about bunions debunked Real-world advice for managing pain, improving performance, and preventing further issues Join the Conversation: Don’t let bunions hold you back from hitting your stride. Tune in now to hear from Dr. Ebonie Vincent and learn how you can take control of your foot health for peak performance. Call-to-Action: Subscribe to Hilary Topper On Air on Apple Podcasts (or your favorite platform) so you never miss an episode. If you enjoyed today’s discussion, leave us a review and share your thoughts! Have bunions or other foot health challenges impacted your training? We’d love to hear your story. Contact us or tag us on social media to join the conversation! Follow Us: Stay connected for more expert advice, athlete stories, and tips to keep you inspired and injury-free. Happy training /episode/index/show/hilarytopperonair/id/36044420

Journey to Sobriety - A Real Story of Recovery 06/13/2025

Swim Smarter: Expert Tips and Must-Have Gear 05/30/2025

The New Westchester Triathlon at Rye Playland 05/16/2025

Do You Need Comfortable Goggles for Swimming? 05/02/2025

Vicki Ventura on the Future of Triathlons 04/11/2025

Vicki Ventura on the Future of Triathlons In the latest episode of the podcast, we are thrilled to welcome Vicki Ventura, the dynamic leader behind Event Power Long Island. Vicki's journey from a high school runner to a seasoned race director is nothing short of inspiring. As she shares her story, you can feel the passion she has for endurance sports and the community that surrounds them. Vicki's introduction to the world of triathlons began unexpectedly when she volunteered for an event, which ignited her love for the sport. She has since risen through the ranks, becoming an expert in organizing some of the region's most exciting running and triathlon events. Her commitment to athlete safety and creating memorable experiences shines through in every aspect of her work. Throughout the episode, Vicki discusses the intricacies of event management, emphasizing the importance of communication with sponsors, volunteers, and community members. She shares the challenges faced during events, such as unpredictable weather conditions, and the quick thinking required to ensure participant safety. Vicki recounts a particularly memorable experience at the Mighty Man Triathlon, where her team had to adapt to high winds and fog, showcasing the flexibility and resilience needed in event planning. One of the most heartwarming stories she shares is about the Mini Mighty Man Triathlon, a beginner-friendly event that has transformed countless lives. Vicki describes how participants, often first-timers, come together in clinics to prepare for the race. The joy and camaraderie that develop among athletes is palpable, and Vicki reflects on the emotional moments when participants achieve their goals for the first time. Vicki also highlights the importance of sustainability in her events. She’s committed to leaving race sites cleaner than they were found and emphasizes recycling efforts to minimize environmental impact. This commitment resonates with many athletes who are increasingly aware of their carbon footprint. Whether you are a seasoned triathlete or someone contemplating your first race, this episode offers invaluable insights and practical advice. Vicki encourages listeners to practice, prepare, and embrace the triathlon community. Her passion is infectious, and her dedication to making endurance sports accessible to everyone is truly commendable. Tune in to this episode for a dose of motivation, expert tips on event planning, and a glimpse into the vibrant world of triathlons on Long Island. You won't want to miss the inspiring stories and practical advice shared by Vicki Ventura. Listen now to get inspired and ready for your next race! /episode/index/show/hilarytopperonair/id/34842485

What Good is Your Spouse For? 03/28/2025

What Good is Your Spouse For? Welcome to Hilary Topper on Air! Today, we’re tackling an often-overlooked but crucial subject—What is your spouse good for? Joining us is Kim Christian, one of Long Island's premier attorneys in estate planning, elder law, and special needs law from the Russo Law Group. With years of experience, Kim helps families make informed decisions that protect their futures. From Medicaid rules to retirement planning and tax strategies, today’s episode is packed with actionable advice for couples. So, whether you’re planning for the future or simply curious about how the law impacts your marriage, this conversation is for you. Let’s get started!” · Kim, tell us a little about yourself and your background. How long have you been with the Russo Law Group? · Can you explain how Medicaid rules differ for married couples and single individuals? · What strategies can couples use to protect their assets if one spouse requires long-term care? · Are there limitations to what a healthy spouse can retain under Medicaid guidelines? · What’s one common mistake couples make when planning for Medicaid eligibility? Section 2: Retirement Accounts and Your Spouse · Why are retirement accounts such a critical part of estate planning for couples? · What are some pitfalls in naming a spouse—or not naming them—as a beneficiary? · Are there special tax-saving techniques available for spouses when inheriting retirement accounts? · How can couples align their retirement planning to support long-term goals? Section 3: Estate Tax Planning and Your Spouse · Kim, could you give us an overview of how estate taxes impact married couples differently? · What is the role of spousal trusts in reducing estate taxes? · Does New York State’s estate tax differ significantly from federal estate tax laws? · What steps should couples take now to ensure their estate plan is tax-efficient? Section 4: Practical Advice for Couples · For couples just starting the planning process, what’s the first thing they should do? · How often should couples review their estate or financial plans with an attorney? · Can you share a success story where proper planning made a big difference for a couple? Wrap-Up and Call to Action For more information go to . /episode/index/show/hilarytopperonair/id/34839620

Mackinac Island Swim Podcast 03/07/2025

What are Turtle Gloves? 02/21/2025

What are Turtle Gloves? Hi everyone, I’m Hilary Topper, and you’re listening to Hilary Topper on Air. Today, I’m excited to welcome Theresa Clarke, the founder of Turtle Gloves, a brand known for its incredibly warm and innovative gloves. These gloves are something special—they combine warmth, comfort, and functionality all in one. I can’t wait to hear Theresa’s story and learn more about the inspiration behind Turtle Gloves and what makes them so unique. Questions 1. Theresa, thank you for being here today! Can you start by telling us how Turtle Gloves got started? What inspired you to create this brand? 2. What was the initial reaction when you first introduced Turtle Gloves to the market? Did you expect the success you’ve had so far? 3. Turtle Gloves are so unique—can you walk us through the design and functionality that make them stand out? 4. How do Turtle Gloves cater to people with active lifestyles, particularly those who enjoy outdoor activities? 5. Keeping hands warm in cold weather can be tricky. What kind of materials or technology do you use to ensure the gloves are both warm and versatile? 6. What’s been one of the biggest challenges you’ve faced as an entrepreneur in the apparel and accessories industry? 7. How do you stay ahead of trends and consumer preferences in your niche? Has feedback from customers shaped the way you design new products? 8. Who do you envision as the ideal user of Turtle Gloves? Are these gloves just for athletes, or do they work for a variety of people and activities? 9. What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs who are looking to create a brand or product in a competitive market? 10. Looking ahead, what’s next for Turtle Gloves? Are there any exciting new designs or products you’re working on? Closing Thank you, Theresa, for joining us and sharing more about the inspiration and innovation behind Turtle Gloves. And thank you to all our listeners for tuning in to Hilary Topper on Air. If you’re looking for gloves to keep you warm in the coldest conditions, be sure to check out Turtle Gloves—you won’t be disappointed! Until next time! /episode/index/show/hilarytopperonair/id/34509875

New Product to Alleviate Knee Pain When Sitting 02/07/2025

Why are Vimazi the Sneakers I love to Train in? 01/17/2025

How to Grieve Your Nassau County Property Assessment in 2025 01/10/2025

How to Grieve Your Nassau County Property Assessment in 2025 Are you feeling the weight of high property taxes in ? You’re not alone. I’m Hilary Topper, and welcome to Hilary Topper on Air. Today, we’re tackling a topic affecting many Long Islanders: the assessment grievance process. Jeff Gold, a partner at The Gold Law Firm, P.C., will join me to help us understand how to challenge property tax assessments and potentially save thousands of dollars. Here are the questions I asked Jeff about the Nassau County Tax Assessment Grievance Process: So, Jeff, welcome to the show! Could you start by sharing your background and The Gold Law Firm for our listeners? Long Island is known for its high property taxes, which fund essential community services. But no one wants to pay more than their fair share. How does The Gold Law Firm assist homeowners in challenging property tax assessments? Can you explain the process to someone who has never filed an assessment grievance and why it’s an essential step for property owners? Many homeowners may feel their property valuation is inaccurate but hesitate to act. Should they file a grievance anyway, and how does it help ensure a fair assessment? Navigating the grievance process can feel overwhelming. How challenging is it for homeowners to file independently, and how does your firm help make it easier? Is hiring an attorney for this process expensive, or does the potential savings outweigh the cost? I understand you’ve created a Facebook group to help homeowners stay informed about the grievance process. Can you share more about what people can expect from the group and how it serves as a resource? Finally, Jeff, how can those interested in filing a grievance or learning more about The Gold Law Firm and your Facebook group reach you? For more information about Jeff Gold and the Gold Law Firm: Facebook group: Grieve Your Assessments: The Gold Law Firm: /episode/index/show/hilarytopperonair/id/34370625

2025changeyourlife 01/03/2025

The Role of a Guardian in Medicaid Planning 12/13/2024

The Role of a Guardian in Medicaid Planning Guardians are critical in navigating Medicaid eligibility, overcoming common challenges in court, and implementing effective planning strategies for incapacitated individuals. Today, a special guest is joining us, Eric J. Einhart, Esq., Partner at . Here are the questions I asked regarding Guardians and Medicaid Can you explain the role of a guardian in Medicaid planning for an incapacitated person and how it differs from traditional Medicaid planning? What are the primary challenges guardians face when navigating Medicaid eligibility rules, especially concerning the assets and income of the incapacitated individual? What are the key steps a guardian must follow to obtain court approval for Medicaid planning within a guardianship proceeding, and how long does the process usually take? Could you describe some common roadblocks guardians encounter when implementing Medicaid planning strategies, and how these obstacles can be addressed or overcome in court? Are there any specific Medicaid planning tools or techniques that are particularly effective in a guardianship context, and how can these be applied with the necessary court approval? How do the responsibilities and duties of a guardian impact the Medicaid planning process, and what should guardians keep in mind when making decisions on behalf of the incapacitated person? In your experience, what are some common misconceptions or misunderstandings about Medicaid planning within guardianship that you often encounter? What role does the court play in overseeing Medicaid planning within guardianship proceedings, and how can guardians ensure they are compliant with all legal requirements? Can you provide examples of successful Medicaid planning strategies used in guardianship cases that have effectively addressed complex eligibility issues? What advice would you offer to guardians who are just beginning to navigate the Medicaid planning process for an incapacitated person, and what resources might be helpful in this journey. Sponsors Thanks to our sponsors for making this show possible. The Russo Law Group, P.C. - Long Island's Signature Estate Planning, Elder Law and Special Needs law firm, PlayTri - Swim, Bike Run! – a retail and online bike shop and multisport specialist, Medi-Dyne - injury prevention and pain relief products and Vimazi- pace tuned running shoes. And last but not least, I’d like to thank our listeners for tuning in. If you want more information on the show, visit our new website, hilarytopper.com or find us on Spotify, iTunes or Google Play. Have a great week and we’ll see you next time… /episode/index/show/hilarytopperonair/id/33098932

Southern Author Talks About Her Experience in the Jim Crow Era 12/06/2024

Southern Author Talks About Her Experience in the Jim Crow Era Listen in as I talk with Stacia Moffett, the acclaimed author of the "Lost and Found in Tennessee" series. Stacia’s novels, including “The Missing Girl” and “Jessa is Back,” offer a compelling exploration of the South’s complex history, cultural dynamics, and enduring legacies. Born and raised on a small farm near Nashville, Stacia’s experiences growing up in the Jim Crow South deeply influenced her writing and her perspectives on racial and social justice. Here are the questions I asked Stacia: Reflecting on your childhood near Nashville on a small farm, how did rural life and your father's artistic spirit influence your worldview and writing? · How did the Jim Crow era shape your understanding of the South’s cultural and racial dynamics, both personally and in your writing? · How did witnessing segregation and white supremacy inspire the "Lost and Found in Tennessee" series? · Why is it important to address racial and social justice in literature today? · What message would you give to those who may not recognize ongoing racial injustices? Before we move on, I am so appreciative of our sponsors and must thank them. Please support our sponsors and tell them you heard about them on Hilary Topper on Air. Special thanks to the Russo Law Group, P.C. - Long Island's Signature Estate Planning, Elder Law and Special Needs law firm, PlayTri - Swim, Bike Run! – a retail and online bike shop and multisport specialist, Medi-Dyne - injury prevention and pain relief products and Vimazi- pace tuned running shoes. · Stacia, back to you. What are your thoughts on the rise of book bans, particularly those targeting race and identity? · Do you believe diverse narratives should remain accessible for all readers? Why or why not? · For readers unfamiliar with "The Missing Girl" and "Jessa is Back," can you set the stage and explain how the two books are connected? · Why is the friendship between the girls central to the story, and how does it reflect themes like resilience, loyalty, and social dynamics? · Can you talk about your vineyard in Washington and how it connects to your love of nature? · And finally, Stacia, how can our listeners get in touch with you or learn more about your books? Thank you, Stacia, for being on the show! I’d also like to thank our sponsors once more. The Russo Law Group, P.C. - Long Island's Signature Estate Planning, Elder Law and Special Needs law firm, PlayTri - Swim, Bike Run! – a retail and online bike shop and multisport specialist, Medi-Dyne - injury prevention and pain relief products and Vimazi- pace tuned running shoes. And last but not least, I’d like to thank our listeners for tuning in. If you want more information on the show, visit our new website, hilarytopper.com or find us on Spotify, iTunes or Google Play. Have a great week and we’ll see you next time… ### /episode/index/show/hilarytopperonair/id/33080212

How to Prevent Injuries and Alleviate Existing Conditions 11/22/2024

How to Prevent Injuries and Alleviate Existing Conditions In today's episode of Hilary Topper on Air, learn how to prevent injuries and alleviate existing conditions with an expert, Craig DiGiovanni, CEO of Medi-Dyne Healthcare Products. Here are some of the questions I asked him: Could you start by giving us an overview of Medi-Dyne and how it has evolved to support triathletes and endurance athletes? What are some common issues you see regarding injury prevention and recovery, and how do your products specifically address these challenges? Chafing is a significant concern for endurance athletes, especially during long races. Can you tell us about the 2Toms SportShield and how it works to prevent chafing? What’s the difference between 2Toms SportShield and the SportShield XTRA? In what scenarios would an athlete prefer the XTRA version? How should triathletes incorporate SportShield into their race day preparation to avoid discomfort and skin irritation? Calf injuries and tightness are common issues for runners and triathletes. Can you explain how the ProStretch Plus Adjustable Calf and Foot Stretcher helps with stretching and injury prevention? How does the ProStretch Plus differ from traditional stretching techniques, and why is it more effective in treating conditions like calf strains or plantar fasciitis? Many athletes deal with tight calves due to the repetitive nature of running and cycling. How often should they be using the ProStretch Plus to maintain flexibility and avoid injury? Plantar fasciitis is a debilitating condition for athletes. Could you discuss how your products, besides the ProStretch Plus, help alleviate the symptoms and speed up recovery? Do you have any upcoming innovations or lesser-known products that address plantar fasciitis that athletes might find useful? What advice would you give to a triathlete dealing with plantar fasciitis in the middle of their training season? Given the nature of triathlon training, how can athletes maintain a balance between training hard and preventing injuries like chafing and plantar fasciitis? What role does product consistency and routine play in preventing these common triathlete issues, especially with products like SportShield and ProStretch? And finally, Craig, how can our listeners get in touch with you or learn more about Medi-Dyne? Discount Code for Medi-Dyne Products Need a discount code? Get 20 percent off any of the Medi-Dyne products including your favorites by going to and using code: ATDIARY20. Sponsors Thanks to our sponsors for making this show possible. The Russo Law Group, P.C. - Long Island's Signature Estate Planning, Elder Law and Special Needs law firm, PlayTri - Swim, Bike Run! – a retail and online bike shop and multisport specialist, Medi-Dyne - keep people moving with injury prevention and pain relief products and Vimazi- pace tuned running shoes and the shoes that I train in. And last but not least, I’d like to thank our listeners for tuning in. /episode/index/show/hilarytopperonair/id/33079382

Are Compression Sleeves The Same? 11/15/2024

Are Compression Sleeves The Same? Find out what makes GoSleeves different in today's Hilary Topper on Air the Endurance Sports Edition podcast. See how Hilary has benefitted using GoSleeves and learn about the technology. Here are questions that were asked: Darren, welcome to the show! To kick things off, could you tell us about the inspiration behind GoSleeves and what motivated you to start the company? I've personally experienced significant benefits from using GoSleeves during races in Chicago and Hudson Valley, especially with my knee issues. Can you explain the technology behind GoSleeves and how it specifically helps athletes manage pain and enhance performance? GoSleeves has been a game-changer for me, providing support during my bike rides and helping me achieve a personal record. What kind of feedback have you received from other athletes who use GoSleeves? With many athletes experiencing injuries, how do GoSleeves work to aid in injury prevention and recovery? Are there specific conditions or injuries where GoSleeves are particularly effective? I'm curious about future developments. Are there any upcoming innovations or new products in the pipeline for GoSleeves that you can share with us? Can you talk about the mission of GoSleeves and how it aligns with supporting athletes at all levels, from casual bikers to professional competitors? Customer feedback is crucial for any business. How does GoSleeves incorporate user feedback into product development and improvements? For listeners who may be dealing with chronic pain or are recovering from injuries, what advice would you give on incorporating GoSleeves into their training or recovery routines? How do you see the role of wearable technology evolving in sports and fitness, and where do GoSleeves fit into this future? Lastly, where can our listeners find more information about GoSleeves, and how can they get in touch if they have questions or need support? Get 15% off any GoSleeve product by going to http://www.GoSleeves.com/Hilary. /episode/index/show/hilarytopperonair/id/33073812

post-polio and it's Impact today 11/01/2024

post-polio and it's Impact today Welcome to Hilary Topper on air. Today we will explore pivotal moments in medical history and their lasting impact on our world today. We will be delving into the story of polio—a disease that once gripped the world with fear and has since become a symbol of the power of vaccines. We'll discuss the polio epidemics of the 1940s and 50s, the groundbreaking vaccines that led to its decline, the emergence of post-polio syndrome, and the current status of polio globally. Polio in Children In the mid-20th century, polio was a name that struck fear into the hearts of families worldwide. This highly infectious disease, caused by the poliovirus, would often lead to paralysis and even death, predominantly affecting children. The epidemics of the 1940s and 50s were particularly severe, with thousands of cases reported annually in countries like the United States. Public pools were closed, and parents kept their children away from crowds, hoping to protect them from this invisible enemy. How it Impacted Me I talk about this topic because it actually affected me personally. You see, my mother, Phyllis Kahn Mass was a polio victim. Her parents thought she got it from a public pool. She was the only one in her class to have it and she was hospitalized for more than a year in an Iron lung. Iron Lung For those of you unfamiliar, the iron lung is a type of negative pressure ventilator, a mechanical respirator that was widely used in the mid-20th century, particularly during the polio epidemics. It was a large, horizontal cylinder that encases most of a patient's body, leaving only the head exposed. The device worked by varying the air pressure inside the cylinder to stimulate breathing, effectively assisting patients who have lost control of their respiratory muscles due to conditions like polio. The iron lung was invented by Philip Drinker and Louis Shaw in 1928 and became a crucial tool for treating respiratory failure caused by polio. During the polio outbreaks of the 1940s and 1950s, iron lungs were a common sight in hospitals, helping patients with paralyzed diaphragms breathe. Although largely obsolete today due to modern ventilators and the near eradication of polio, the iron lung remains an iconic symbol of the era. My Mother I remember my grandmother telling me that she went to the hospital every day but was unable to go near my mother because she had to wear a type of hazmat suit, in fear that she and my grandfather would carry the disease. My uncle was a little boy. He stayed with various relatives. When finally got out of the hospital and came home, all of the friends she once had, were gone. They wanted nothing to do with her or her family. Everyone was a victim. A year or so later, they moved from the Bronx to Long Beach, Long Island. In 1955, Dr. Jonas Salk, developed the first effective polio vaccine. This injectable, inactivated vaccine was a breakthrough in medical science, offering hope to millions. A few years later, Dr. Albert Sabin introduced an oral vaccine, which became widely used due to its ease of administration and effectiveness. These vaccines drastically reduced polio cases, turning the disease from a public health crisis into a manageable condition. March of Dimes I remember my mother telling me about the march of dimes and how important they were to her. The March of Dimes, originally known as the National Foundation for Infantile Paralysis, played a crucial role in the fight against polio. Founded by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1938, the organization was instrumental in funding research and supporting the development of the polio vaccine. Through widespread fundraising efforts, including the famous "March of Dimes" campaign, the organization raised significant funds to support scientists like Dr. Jonas Salk, who developed the first effective polio vaccine. This vaccine, announced in 1955, led to a dramatic decline in polio cases and was a pivotal moment in public health history. The March of Dimes' efforts not only helped eradicate polio in the United States but also set the stage for its ongoing mission to improve the health of mothers and babies. While the vaccines were successful in curbing new infections, many who had survived polio were left with lasting effects. Decades later, these individuals began experiencing new symptoms, a condition now known as post-polio syndrome (PPS). PPS manifests as muscle weakness, fatigue, and joint pain, occurring years after the initial recovery from polio. It's believed to result from the gradual deterioration of motor neurons that were previously damaged and then repaired during the original polio infection. Post Polio Although, polio has been nearly eradicated, thanks to the continued efforts of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, which began in 1988. Through comprehensive immunization campaigns, polio remains endemic in only a few regions. However, vigilance is key, as outbreaks can occur if vaccination efforts wane. The fight against polio continues, with a focus on reaching every child to ensure a world free from this disease. The disease unfortunately still affects those who were victims in their childhood. Although their symptoms improved and many were released from the hospital, when they reached middle age, the symptoms returned as post polio syndrome. Post-polio syndrome, or PPS, is a condition that can develop many years after a person has recovered from polio. It's estimated that a significant number of polio survivors experience PPS, where they encounter new symptoms such as muscle weakness, fatigue, and joint pain. This syndrome arises because the motor neurons that were once damaged and adapted to regain function gradually deteriorate over time. This deterioration leads to the recurrence of symptoms, often affecting mobility and quality of life. Listen in to the rest of the podcast as I also interview Mary McManus, MSW, Author of A Most Unlikely Runner: Inspiration From the Heart of a Warrior, available on Amazon. Mary was also inflicted with the disease and now lives with Post Polio Syndrome. Special Thanks: To our sponsors for making this podcast possible -- , , , and /episode/index/show/hilarytopperonair/id/32997602

Why Triathlon and Endurance Sports Should be Inclusive 10/18/2024

Hilary Topper On Air

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