Law Offices Of William F. Underwood - February 2022

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FEBRUARY 2022

Let’s Save Lives CONSIDER BECOMING AN ORGAN DONOR

Unless we or loved ones have experienced the need for it, many of us only think about organ donation when we check “yes” or “no” when registering for a driver’s license. But on Feb. 14, in addition to Valentine’s Day, National Donor Day encourages people to sign up to become organ donors. You never know just how impactful checking “yes” could be. Priscila and I are both organ donors. It just felt like the right thing to do, and now as a parent, I have a completely new view on this valuable practice. I couldn’t imagine if something were to ever happen to her and she needed a donation to save her life; it’s a terrifying thought. People who are on waiting lists for organs are also someone’s child, and I feel compelled to do my part. Should anything happen to me, at least others would have life. Recently, I was chatting with someone who disagreed with organ donation. They felt uncomfortable about it, and I think this is more common than we may realize. Organ donation is still seen as taboo and strange because it is hard to imagine one person walking around with another person’s organs. It feels like something out of a horror movie. Inspired by National Donor Day and this conversation, I’d like to dispel a few myths about organ donation. I would encourage you to register to be a donor, if you are not already, and do some research on OrganDonor.gov or discuss this option with your doctor if you have more questions. You never know whose child, parent, spouse, neighbor, or friend you could save. How does organ donation work? When you register to be an organ donor, nothing changes with your medical care. Your doctor is required to treat you the same as any other patient. However, when you are declared medically dead, the hospital will notify the Organ Procurement Organization (OPO), who will determine if you are a viable candidate for organ donation. Then, OPO representatives transport your organs to a donor in need. This often happens quickly after your passing, as organs have a limited lifespan outside the human body. However, it’s important to remember that donation can come in many forms. Blood, plasma, kidneys, and bone marrow can be made as living donations. We often don’t think of blood and

plasma donation as taboo, so if you’re struggling with the concept of organ donation, start by donating blood. This is an easy way to become more comfortable with organ donation. Does organ donation make a difference? According to the Mayo Clinic, one organ donor could save as many as 75 lives. And the people donors help are the ones who are in the most dire need for a donation. That doesn’t mean there are less-deserving people on the waiting list. In fact, many people on the list need a donation soon. That’s why it’s imperative that more people sign up to donate their organs after death. Furthermore, organ donation can help a family cope with its loss. To know that their loved one’s organs are saving lives and continuing to live can be a huge comfort to families who are grieving. In some cases, donor families and those who receive the donation become close! How do I register? In Georgia, you must fill out the and sign the organ donor form. This can be done at the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) when updating your license. Two witnesses at the DMV will also have to sign the form, then your designation as an organ donor will be added to your license. Be sure to share your wishes with your family, too. This February, I hope you commit to saving lives. Organ donation is a powerful way to help others after you're gone. I’m proud to be a donor. Will you be one, too?

-William F. “Trey” Underwood, III

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SHOULD YOUR CHILDREN PLAY FOOTBALL?

Physical activity always comes with risks. It’s important to remember that all forms of sports can induce injury. Your child can sprain their ankle running in track and field,

February is host to a sports tradition that dates back more than half a century: Super Bowl Sunday! Whether your team is playing or not, the Super Bowl is the NFL’s biggest stage, and it’s arguably one of the most- watched events on the sports calendar.

NFL players had CTE, often categorized as a complex brain injury. That’s terrifying news for any parent. But knowing the risk can reduce the exposure. Since these findings have been made public, the NFL and youth football leagues have made changes to their concussion protocols, equipment, and tackling techniques. In fact, concussion reports in the NFL dropped by 24% in 2018. Furthermore, parents can arm themselves with this information not to discourage their children from playing football but to instead encourage safer play styles. For example, flag football can be a safer, healthier alternative for young players. If you’re concerned about your little footballer hitting the field, talk to your child’s physician about risks and preventive measures. trip to the grocery store. Regain some of the muscle memory you may have lost over the winter and help your bike get used to running again. Vehicles are a lot like humans; they need a little warmup after months of inactivity. If you need extra assistance, consider signing up for a motorcycle safety course or review your bike’s handbook for more instruction. Bonus : Clean your bike! While you may have done everything right to store it for the

just as they can while running down the football field. Proper technique, great coaching, up-to- date equipment, and clean play can all deter potential injuries. But fear of injury is not reason enough to keep a child out of a sport that can teach discipline, teamwork, and sportsmanship. However, prolonged exposure is the issue. This is where football deviates, however. While any sport increases the risk of injury, football’s consistent exposure to contact is what makes it more dangerous. A 2017 Boston University study first exposed this, citing that more than 99% of the 202 former

For impressionable kids, watching players on the world’s biggest stage can be like watching their heroes duke it out, inspiring many to join their own peewee leagues. But is that safe? In recent years, increased reports of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) among retired players have some parents questioning if this great American tradition is worth it. Here’s what you need to know. 3 THINGS YOU MUST DO BEFORE YOUR FIRST RIDE Prep for Motorcycle Season With This Guide February is the last full month of winter, and for motorcycle riders, that means one thing: It’s almost riding season! Some Georgia bikers prefer to ride their motorcycle all year round, but if you winterized your bike, it’s time to prepare your ride for the road again.

plan. Do you need more coverage, like to protect yourself from under- or uninsured motorists? This is an important question to ask when you re-up your plan!

Examine your bike. After months without use, your

motorcycle could have a little “rust” — figuratively and literally. Examine your bike for signs of rust, deterioration

on the engine or battery, and rodents. (Some like to burrow wherever it’s warm!) Then, inflate your tires again, check the brakes, and clean out any air filters or fluid compartments that may have leftover deposits from last season. Once those are clean, fill it up! Take a test run. Before you make a big trip this season, start small. Go for a ride around the neighborhood or on a quick

winter, it can still accumulate grime. A good cleaning and wax job will protect the exterior.

Consider this your official checklist for motorcycle preparedness!

No matter how well you prepare for the open road, accidents can happen. Contact our team at the Law Offices of William F. Underwood, III, P.C. today if you need legal assistance after a motorcycle accident. Stay safe this season!

Update your insurance. Before you go on that first ride this spring, add your bike back onto your insurance plan. This will protect you and other drivers should you get into an accident or experience a breakdown. Furthermore, this is a great yearly opportunity to examine your insurance

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DATE NIGHT? NO PROBLEM

3 AFFORDABLE WAYS TO CELEBRATE VALENTINE’S DAY

The most popular date night of the year is right around the corner, and whether you find Valentine’s Day

and your date. Cork’s allows its visitors to choose anywhere from three to six meats and cheeses and two accompaniments — like nuts or

hokey or sweet, it’s still fun to surprise your sweetheart with a little romance. Here are some of our favorite date night ideas in Albany that are sure to impress but won’t break the bank. Grab dinner at Osteria Italian Restaurant! Few cuisine types say love quite like Italian, and Osteria has all your favorites covered. With rustic lighting and bold flavors, you and your date will be

honey — to create the perfect charcuterie for your favorite glass of wine. If you’re looking for more, Cork’s also features small plates to share. Plus, you can’t beat the ambiance! Take a walk around Radium Springs Gardens! There’s something to look at around every corner at Radium Springs. As one

of Georgia’s Seven Natural Wonders, Radium Springs Gardens’ crystal-clear waters and diverse aquatic and land plant life will entice the nature-lover in each of you. The garden is home to both “indigenous and exotic” plant life, and you can enjoy a walk in the casino garden, near where Radium Springs Casino stood. With a multitude of gazebos along the path, too, you can enjoy a spot to sit and rest or a place for a picnic.

transported to Italy and will definitely hope for leftovers for the next day! Be sure to order a small plate to split, then opt for pizza — Margherita is an Italian classic — or try a pasta, steak, or seafood dish. Get two entrees and split if you’re not sure which route to go! Either way, you will leave full after a great meal and will have found a favorite new local spot. Enjoy wine and charcuterie at Cork’s! If you’re not looking for a full meal, Cork’s has you covered. Enjoy your favorite wine and create a charcuterie board just for you

Find more destinations at VisitAlbanyGA.com. Happy Valentine’s Day!

We Value You! At the Law Offices of William F. Underwood, III, P.C., the trust we build with our clients is our most valuable asset. To show our appreciation, we would like to thank our clients who have referred others to us since our January newsletter:

Ingredients • 2 chicken breasts • 2 oz mozzarella cheese, cubed • 2 canned artichoke hearts, chopped • 4 tsp sun-dried tomatoes, chopped MEDITERRANEAN STUFFED CHICKEN BREAST

• 10 large basil leaves, chopped • 2 cloves garlic, chopped • 1/2 tsp curry powder • 1/2 tsp paprika • Salt and pepper, to taste

Roderick Weaver Andrew McDowell Sherry Jenkins

Mary Tatum William Revill

Your recommendations are greatly treasured by everyone at our office. Clients can also leave their comments on our services through Google Reviews! These statements give us critical feedback and help other clients who are facing stressful life situations find dependable lawyers. Previous and current clients can also receive free notary services at our office. Learn more about this service by giving us a call at 229-888-0888.

Directions 1. Preheat oven to 365 F. 2. Cut a slit lengthwise to create a pocket in the middle of each chicken breast. Place the breasts on a baking sheet. 3. In a medium bowl, combine the mozzarella cheese, artichoke hearts, tomatoes, basil, and garlic. 4. Divide the mixture in half and stuff each chicken breast pocket. Using toothpicks, seal the edges of the pockets. 5. Season the chicken with curry, paprika, salt, and pepper, then bake for 20 minutes or until the chicken reaches 165 F. 6. Remove the toothpicks and serve with rice, potatoes, salad, or roasted vegetables!

Thank you for trusting us to serve you!

Inspired by DiabetesStrong.com

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PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411

229-888-0888 www.puttingpeoplefirst.law

1918 DAWSON RD. ALBANY, GA 31707

How You Can Save Lives This February PAGE 1

Should Your Children Play Football? PAGE 2

3 Ways to Make Motorcycling Safer This Season PAGE 2

3 Affordable Date Nights Out in Albany PAGE 3

Mediterranean Stuffed Chicken Breast PAGE 3

Include Mother Nature in Your Next Date PAGE 4

Watch the sunset. Sunsets are intuitively romantic: The sun paints the sky in calming reds, pinks, and purples, creating a beautiful backdrop. While watching the sunset, you and your partner can have a romantic picnic with the sky in view. Or you can embrace the scenery with your other half and create memories you both will never forget. Go stargazing. If you live in the city, stargazing is a good chance to escape for the night and get away from the light pollution in the city. If you already live in a location where you can easily see the stars, take advantage of the peaceful privacy with your loved one. Maybe you’ll spot a shooting star you can wish upon while you’re out there! Hit up a drive-in movie. If you’re looking for a way to be extra comfy while still sitting outside, a drive-in movie is the best destination! The best part about a drive-in is that you can view both new and old movies as well as bring your own snacks and drinks. If the weather permits and if you have a truck, you can load the bed with blankets and pillows and have a cozy night while watching a movie. These date night ideas are perfect for Valentine’s Day, but they don’t have to be limited to just the holiday! You can also consider these for any date you have with your significant other. Nothing brings couples closer like being together with nature.

YOU, ME, AND THE GREAT OUTDOORS 3 Outside Date Night Ideas

Did your significant other leave it up to you to come up with a romantic date idea this Valentine’s Day? Luckily for you, there are tons of date activities that are easy and affordable for you to enjoy with Mother Nature. While the possibilities are endless outside, here are three popular outdoor date ideas!

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HAVE YOU OR A LOVED ONE USED ZANTAC? PLUS, AN UPDATE ON CANCERS INCLUDED IN THIS CASE!

Do you or a loved one now suffer from cancer, nervous system disorders, liver failure, and other debilitating or deadly diseases?

If so, you may have a claim against the pharmaceutical manufacturers of Zantac.

In September 2019, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that Zantac — the over-the-counter name of the heartburn medication ranitidine — contained elevated and unsafe levels of the carcinogenic contaminant N-Nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA). Experts claim that when the medication comes in contact with water, its production of NDMA increases. The FDA is continuing to investigate the cause of the elevated levels of the carcinogen. As a result, thousands of mass tort lawsuits have been filed on behalf of those who have been diagnosed with cancer and other dangerous illnesses after the continued use of Zantac. Evidence suggests that the manufacturers of Zantac were aware of the potentially deadly qualities of NDMAs and its presence in ranitidine when they mass-marketed the product. The Law Offices of William F. Underwood, III, P.C. are your south Georgia mass tort case experts, so call us at 229-888-0888 today. Our attorneys will be there with you through every step in the process and work tirelessly to ensure you get the justice you deserve.

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If you or a loved one was diagnosed with one of the following cancers after taking Zantac, you may be entitled to compensation and justice for your suffering.

Cancers included in the Zantac mass tort case:

• Liver • Stomach • Bladder • Colorectal • Prostate • Breast • Kidney (or kidney replacement)

The Law Offices of William F. Underwood, III, P.C. are your south Georgia mass tort case experts, so call us at 229-888- 0888 today. Our attorneys will be there with you through every step in the process and work tirelessly to ensure you get the justice you deserve.

We will continue to update you as this investigation progresses and more details are released.

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