Letter from the Editor
I f you’ve followed MetroFamily for any length of time, you know not much gets our team more excited than fall fun (some of us may or may not start putting out pumpkins in August). We consistently hear from readers that this is one of your favorite times of year, too. In addition to pumpkin-related fun, readers have been asking for more health and wellness content, with an emphasis on mental health. With that in mind, in this issue you’ll find our first Healthy Families Guide. While our kids’ health is top of mind for us as parents, I know from experience that our own health needs often fall by the wayside. Before you peruse these pages, stop and consider when YOU last made a health appointment. If it’s been awhile, make a list of who you’re due to see and start scheduling.
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MetroFamily Magazine is published bimonthly. Copyright 2024 by MetroFamily HoldCo, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Articles and advertisements in MetroFamily do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the magazine or MetroFamily HoldCo, LLC. We do not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. The acceptance of advertising by MetroFamily does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services, or information. We do not knowingly present any product or service which is fraudulent or misleading in nature. Publisher Sarah Taylor Editorial & Marketing Director Erin Page Digital Editor Lindsay Cuomo Art Director Stacy Noakes Assistant Editor Emiley Bainbridge Account Executive Dana Price Events Director Casey Shupe Operations Director Morgan Harris Content & Account Specialist Renee Filippo Advertising & Distribution Manager Kelli Newsome Contributing Writers Umo Callins Sally Hoch Christina Mushi-Brunt Contributing Photographer Bridget Pipkin Contact us Mailing address: 6608 N. Western Ave., #458 Oklahoma City, OK 73116 Phone: 405-601-2081 tips@metrofamilymagazine.com metrofamilymagazine.com
I’m living proof that caring for yourself first as a parent will have long-lasting positive effects for your entire family.
Two years ago, at the age of 39 and as I was training for my eighth half marathon, I was diagnosed with an extremely rare heart condition, which classified me in heart failure and necessitated the placement of a pacemaker/ defibrillator. This past spring, I was diagnosed with thyroid cancer, followed by a total thyroidectomy and radioactive iodine therapy. Both times, something felt off. I put off the appointments for a bit but eventually relented, knowing I needed answers. In both cases, I was told because I’d listened to my body and sought help, life-saving interventions were available. I’m confident I’m here for my family today, making fall fun plans, because I have made the time to take care of myself. (And that includes regular therapy appointments, too.) I also know taking care of yourself as a parent is not easy or inexpensive. Even as I grumble about going to my many doctor’s appointments, it’s never lost on me how fortunate I am to have a flexible job, insurance, the means to pay for out-of-pocket expenses, transportation and childcare. If you’re in the same boat, I invite you to consider your blessings, too. And if you need assistance with health and medical costs, please visit metrofamilymagazine. com/healthcare-resources to find local organizations that can help. I hope you enjoy all the fall fun your family can handle this season — but first, I hope you prioritize your health and wellness. You’re worth it.
With hope,
Erin Page Managing Editor
Proud member of
Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce, Edmond Chamber of Commerce & Midwest City Chamber of Commerce
METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2024 5
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