Make A Difference Minute: A Survivor's Purpose

Make A Difference Minute: A Survivor's Purpose

On this Make a Difference Minute, I have Jamie Schanbaum, a survivor of meningococcal disease whose life changed forever while she was attending college in Texas. Like many college students, Jamie was simply enjoying campus life when what seemed like flu-like symptoms quickly turned into a medical emergency. Within hours, she was fighting for her life. She spent seven months in the hospital, and to save her life, doctors amputated both legs below the knee and all of her fingers. Today, Jamie has found a new purpose. She shares her story so other families will understand just how serious meningococcal disease can be and why informed conversations matter. Jamie says that if she had known more about the disease and the steps that could be taken to help prevent it, she would have been proactive. Her hope is that no one else has to endure what she experienced. Parents are encouraged to talk with their child’s healthcare provider about meningococcal disease and learn more about the available prevention options. For more information, personal stories, and conversation starters, visit Ask2BSure.com [http://Ask2BSure.com]. This MADM is brought to you by Hydration Lounge, proudly supporting stories and the people who make our communities strong. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

Make A Difference Minute: A Conversation That Could Save a Life

On this Make a Difference Minute, I have Dr. Michael Milobsky, a practicing pediatrician and founder of Pediatrics at the Meadows in Castle Rock, Colorado, as we discuss meningococcal disease and why parents should have an informed conversation with their child’s healthcare provider before the new school year begins. Although meningococcal disease is uncommon, it can become life-threatening in as little as 24 hours. Dr. Milobsky explains that one in ten people who contract bacterial meningitis will die, and one in five survivors may face lifelong complications, including brain damage or limb loss. Teens and young adults, particularly those between the ages of 16 and 23, are among those at increased risk because of common activities such as sharing drinks, food, utensils, toothpaste, kissing, coughing, and living in close quarters like college dorms, military housing, or shared apartments. Dr. Milobsky encourages parents not to wait until there’s a problem. Instead, talk with your child’s healthcare provider about meningococcal disease, understand the risks, and ask whether vaccination is appropriate for your teen or young adult. To learn more and prepare for that conversation, visit Ask2BSure.com [http://Ask2BSure.com]. This MADM is brought to you by Bama Estate Planning by Attorney Harlan D. Mitchell, proudly supporting stories and the people who make our communities strong. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

Protecting Our Teens: Understanding Meningococcal Disease

Tonight, we’re sharing a conversation that every parent, grandparent, and caregiver should hear. Meningococcal disease, often called meningitis, is uncommon, but when it strikes, it can change a life in a matter of hours. Joining me tonight are Dr. Michael Milobsky, practicing pediatrician, Jamie Schanbaum, a meningococcal disease survivor, and Patsy Schanbaum, Jamie’s mother. Together, they share a powerful story of survival, resilience, and why it’s so important for families to have informed conversations with their healthcare providers. As teens prepare to head back to school and college campuses, we’ll discuss who is most at risk, how quickly this disease can progress, Jamie’s remarkable journey from surviving a life-threatening illness to becoming a gold medal cyclist and advocate, and what parents should know about meningococcal disease prevention and vaccination. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

Make A Difference Minute: Cousins for a Cause

On this Make a Difference Minute, I have Lennon and Camryn Curtis, along with Irie Blade, as they share how a simple lemonade stand became an opportunity to help seniors in their community. Through Cousins for a Cause, the cousins came together to raise money for Meals on Wheels. Everyone had a role, from making lemonade and creating signs to pouring drinks, greeting customers, and explaining where every dollar would go. While they were a little nervous when the first customers arrived, that quickly turned into excitement as the very first donation was $20. Throughout the day, they were surprised not only by how many people stopped by, but by the generosity of those who gave more than the cost of a cup of lemonade. Now, these young difference-makers hope their effort inspires other families, neighborhoods, schools, churches, businesses, and community groups to pass the pitcher by creating their own lemonade stands to support causes that matter. Sometimes making a difference begins with something as simple as a pitcher of lemonade, willing hearts, & a community that cares. This MADM is brought to you by Premier Structures, Inc., proudly supporting stories and the people who make our communities strong. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

Cousins for a Cause: Passing the Pitcher of Kindness

Tonight, I’m excited to introduce you to some young difference makers who prove you’re never too young to change someone’s life. Joining me are Lennon Curtis, Irie Blade, and Camryn Curtis as they share the story behind Cousins for a Cause, a special effort that also included Miles Curtis, Mia, Lily, and Holly. Together, these cousins hosted a lemonade stand to benefit Meals on Wheels and the seniors it serves throughout the Shoals community. What started as a simple idea became an opportunity to teach children about compassion, generosity, and serving others. Even more inspiring, they’re hoping the effort doesn’t stop with them. Through their “Pass the Pitcher” challenge, they’re encouraging other families, neighborhoods, teams, and organizations to host their own fundraisers and continue spreading kindness. I hope you’ll join us for this encouraging conversation about small hands, big hearts, and the difference one family can make when they decide to serve others. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️