"I tell people if I can do it, anybody can do it. You know? I struggled with meth addiction for 35 years." - Lonnie

Lonnie's story is one of overcoming a decades-long battle with substance use, including multiple incarcerations, the loss of family, and hitting rock bottom. However, through a spiritual awakening in prison, renewed recovery efforts with the support of his partner Mandy, and his work as a peer support specialist, Lonnie has found purpose and fulfillment in helping others on their own recovery journeys. His story provides hope and inspiration that recovery is possible, even after experiencing the darkest of circumstances.

Here is some of what Adam and Lonnie discuss:

• Addiction is powerful and relentless, but recovery is possible, even after years of struggle
• The power of faith and community can be transformative in the journey of recovery
• Perseverance and the willingness to get back up after setbacks are crucial for long-term success
• Sharing one's story and using lived experience to support others can be incredibly meaningful and impactful

Lonnie's story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of faith.

This episode continues the discussion on aging, with a focus on how behavioral health is connected to physical health as we get older. Host Adam Renshaw and Dr. Hansen explore the essential elements all humans need - water, nutrition, sleep, movement, and love - and how deficiencies in these areas can manifest as physical and mental health issues, especially for the elderly.

Main Topics Discussed:

• The connection between behavioral health and physical health
• The 5 essential elements all humans need: water, nutrition, sleep, movement, love
• The importance of love and social connection, especially for the elderly
• How lack of sleep can negatively impact both physical and mental health
• Recommendations for getting quality sleep
• The role of hydration and proper nutrition in supporting overall health
• How movement and exercise benefit the mind and body
• The challenges addiction can pose in meeting these essential needs

Here are the two previous episodes Adam and Orin did on Aging:

Brain, Vision & Hearing in Aging: Tips for Maintaining Cognitive & Sensory Health

Aging: How to Care for Our Bodies As We Get Older (Part 1: Heart, Bones, and Joints)

This podcast episode provides a comprehensive overview of the concerning rise in teen vaping and e-cigarette use.

Tammy, a public health nurse and tobacco education specialist, discusses:

• The highly addictive and dangerous nature of nicotine
• The toxic ingredients found in e-cigarette aerosol
• The targeted marketing tactics used by the vaping industry to appeal to youth.

She shares alarming statistics on the skyrocketing rates of vaping among high school students, as well as the link between e-cigarette use and increased likelihood of smoking cigarettes.

Tammy also outlines the serious short-term and potential long-term health consequences of vaping for adolescents, including brain development issues, lung damage, and addiction.

Finally, she provides guidance for parents on how to recognize signs of vaping and have open conversations with their children, as well as resources available to help teens and young adults quit vaping.

Websites:

mylifemyquit.com

mtreact.com

tobaccofreekids.org

parentsagainstvaping.org

To quit:

Text start my quit to 36072 or

Call 855-891-9989

Amanda Reininger shares her journey as a mother of a son with a rare heart condition, hypoplastic left heart syndrome, and discusses the challenges and triumphs they faced as a family.

Topics discussed:

Amanda's son Everett's diagnosis of hypoplastic left heart syndrome during pregnancy and the emotional impact on the family.

Details of the three open heart surgeries Everett underwent: Norwood, Fontan, and Glenn procedures.

Challenges faced by Amanda and her husband, including anxiety, emotional trauma, and coping with the uncertainty of Everett's condition.

Positive outcomes and progress in Everett's health, including adjustments like physical therapy, and occupational therapy.

The importance of hope, gratitude, and relying on support systems during tough times.

Key takeaways and lessons:

Hope and Resilience: Amanda's story underscores the power of hope, resilience, and relying on support systems during challenging times.

Embracing Gratitude: Despite hardships, being grateful for life's blessings and the strength found in loved ones can help navigate difficult circumstances.

Mental Health Awareness: Acknowledging emotional struggles and seeking help, such as counseling, is vital in coping with trauma and stress.

Parenting Challenges: Balancing the role of a parent with the complexities of a child's health condition requires strength, patience, and a positive outlook.

Importance of Sharing: Sharing personal stories of struggle and triumph can inspire hope and provide comfort to others facing similar challenges.

In this episode of The One in Five host Adam Renshaw is joined by guests Melanie Frame, Chanda Richards, and Tammy Jo Douglass to discuss breast and cervical cancer screening and early detection. The guests share their experiences in public health and the Montana Cancer Control Program, highlighting the importance of regular screenings, early detection, and the support available to women facing cancer.

Topics discussed:

• Introduction to the guests and their roles in public health and cancer control programs.
• Personal stories and motivations behind their work in cancer prevention.
• Importance of early detection through screenings like mammograms.
• Increase in cancer survival rates due to advancements in screenings and treatments.
• Overview of the Montana Cancer Control Program and its services.
• Eligibility requirements and income guidelines for the program.
• Personal stories of individuals benefiting from cervical and breast cancer screenings.
• Support provided by the program throughout the screening, diagnostic, and treatment processes.
• Encouragement for women to prioritize their health and seek screenings.

Key takeaways:

• Regular screenings are crucial for early detection and improved cancer survival rates.
• The Montana Cancer Control Program offers support to women for screenings, diagnostics, and treatments, regardless of insurance status.
• Personal stories highlight the impact of early detection and the program's role in providing financial assistance and guidance through the cancer journey.

Contact:

Mel: melanie.frame@onechc.org

Chanda: chanda.richards@onechc.org

Tammy: tammy.douglass@onechc.org

In this episode of The One In Five, host Adam Renshaw and guest Dr. Orin Hansen discuss common health issues related to aging, focusing on the brain, eyes, and ears. They delve into topics like brain health, dementia, strokes, eye issues like presbyopia (age-related farsightedness), and age-related hearing loss. The conversation also touches on the importance of preventive care, maintaining cognitive health, and the impact of social interaction on health.

Topics discussed:

• Brain health and aging
• Various types of dementia: Alzheimer's, Lewy body, and vascular dementia
• Symptoms, causes, and effects of strokes
• Tips for maintaining optimum eye and ear health as we age
• Importance of sleep, social interaction, and balanced nutrition

Key takeaways and lessons:

• Brain health is crucial as it controls executive functions and impacts various bodily systems.
• Strokes can lead to permanent damage if not treated promptly, affecting movement, sensation, and other functions.
• Various types of dementia can have similar cognitive effects but may differ in causes and progression.
• Maintaining a balanced diet, including fish for omega-3 fatty acids, can support brain, eye, and nerve health.
• Adequate sleep, social engagement, and preventive care are essential for overall health as we age.

Listen to part one here

Ty LaFountain shares his story of addiction, recovery, and becoming a behavioral health peer support specialist. He opens up about his journey, struggles, and triumphs in overcoming substance use disorder and mental health challenges.

Topics discussed:

• Tyler's childhood, growing up with a mother with multiple sclerosis and an absent father with substance use issues.
• His introduction to substance use in a rough neighborhood and the progression to harder drugs.
• Becoming a parent while still struggling with substance use and the impact on his children.
• Going through a dark period, thoughts of suicide, and the turning points that led him to recovery.
• Finding a supportive community, getting a job as a peer support specialist, and helping others in their recovery journey.

Key takeaways and lessons:

1. Community Support: Building a supportive community is crucial in overcoming addiction and mental health challenges.
2. Mindset Shift: Changing irrational thinking patterns and focusing on long-term consequences can help in recovery.
3. Vulnerability: Embracing vulnerability and seeking help from others is a strength in the recovery process.
4. Hope and Resilience: Tyler's story highlights that recovery is possible, and with support and determination, individuals can overcome addiction and lead fulfilling lives.

To get a hold of Ty please email ty.lafountain@onechc.org. He can help you get started in your recovery journey.

To listen to Megan Dobbs Story:

https://www.onechc.org/podcast/episode/3b8785d6/a-mother-struggling-with-substance-use-finds-the-help-she-needs-megan-dobbs-story

In this episode of The One In Five host Adam Renshaw interviews James Brown, a diabetic educator, about managing diabetes and preventing it. They discuss the impact of diabetes, the role of diet and exercise, and the importance of education and support in diabetes management.

Topics discussed:

• The impact of diabetes on the body, including energy levels, fat accumulation, autoimmune issues, and vascular damage
• Types of diabetes
• Medical treatment for diabetes, including oral medications, insulin, and newer medications like Ozempic
• The role of diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes in managing diabetes, including the importance of balanced meals, avoiding sugary drinks, and engaging in regular physical activity
• James Brown's approach to patient education and the importance of communication and partnership with healthcare providers

Here are some key takeaways and lessons:

• Diabetes can have a significant impact on various aspects of health, including energy levels, fat accumulation, autoimmune issues, and vascular damage.
• Type 2 diabetes is often a result of lifestyle factors, insulin resistance, and high carbohydrate consumption.
• Lifestyle modifications, including balanced meals, regular exercise, and medication management, play a crucial role in managing diabetes.
• Effective communication and partnership with healthcare providers are essential for managing diabetes and providing valuable feedback for treatment adjustments.

The Sugar Rush is an in person and virtual run/walk with distances of 3 miles and 1 mile. The Sugar Rush event serves as a platform for raising awareness, funding diabetes education programs, and promoting diabetes prevention initiatives. To sign up for this years Sugar Rush whether in person or virtual please follow this link:

https://runsignup.com/Race/MT/Hardin/SugarRushBVHC