ISOTHERMAL GRAD SET TO OPEN NEW HEALTHCARE BUSINESS. (Copy)

Hey, family! I wanted to take a moment to talk about something that's been on my heart recently—measles. I recently shared a post with some measles prevention and treatment strategies, hoping to offer a holistic perspective and a little mama wisdom on how we can protect our little ones. Unfortunately, my post sparked a reaction that I was not expecting, some of my colleagues going as far as to call me a “liar.” I was truly shocked by how things escalated, especially when I had been respectful and kind in my exchange. I had assumed, perhaps naively, that I’d receive the same in return. But I’m here to tell you that, even though it was disheartening, I’m not backing down from what I believe as the Lord has commissioned me to this fight. And what I believe is that preventing and treating measles isn’t as simple as getting a vaccine. Sure, the MMR vaccine is often touted as the “only way to prevent measles,” as the American Academy of Pediatrics recently stated. But I have to respectfully disagree.

Vaccines are an important tool, but let’s not forget the biggest defense our bodies have: the immune system. Without a strong immune system, no vaccine can do its job effectively. It’s the immune system that fights off viruses like measles—not just the vaccine. And that’s why I think we should focus not just on the vaccine itself, but on strengthening our bodies through holistic health practices that support the

immune system.

Here’s what I know, based on years of experience and research:

1. Nutrition Matters: A diet rich in whole foods, vitamins, and minerals supports immune function. Vitamin A, in particular, is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the skin and mucous membranes, which act as barriers to infection. So, in addition to considering vaccines, make sure your child’s diet includes plenty of vitamin-rich foods like leafy greens, carrots, sweet potatoes, and bell peppers.

2. Gut Health is Key: Did you know that up to 70% of your immune system is located in the gut? A healthy gut means a stronger immune response. Fermented foods, probiotics, and a balanced gut microbiome are critical for immune function. Supporting gut health with foods like yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut can help ensure that your child’s immune system is ready to fight off infections.

3. Sleep, Rest, and Stress Management: This is a big one. The body heals, repairs, and strengthens when it is well-rested. So, let’s make sure our kiddos (and ourselves!) are getting plenty of sleep and avoiding unnecessary stress. Sleep is essential for maintaining healthy immune function and fighting off viruses like measles.

4. Herbs and Natural Remedies: There are several herbs known for supporting the immune system, such as echinacea, elderberry, and astragalus. These can be wonderful tools for prevention and support, especially if your little one is exposed to the virus.

And I’m not just talking about this from a theoretical perspective. I’ve worked with families whose children have opted out of vaccines, and through a combination of natural remedies, proper nutrition, and immune support, they’ve made it through diseases without complications. We cannot place all ourfaith in a single intervention and ignore the overall health of our immune systems. We must continue to trust God will allow our bodies to do what he has designed them to do best- FIGHT!

Now, I understand even more why families are seeking guidance on what’s best for them. That’s why we’re a medical freedom practice—we support patient choice. We are vaccine-friendly, which means we give parents the space to explore all their options and make the best decision for their families. As healthcare professionals, we are here to support you in that process. We’re always available to educate, answer questions, and be there for you, no matter what decision you make. If things change, we’ll be right there, ready to walk with you every step of the way. So, if you’re looking for a vaccine-friendly family doctor or pediatrician in the Charlotte area who supports you in this way, we’d love to be a part of your journey. We care for families across the lifespan and absolutely love children (I have six of my own!). Come check us out—we’re here for you and your family, whatever path you choose.

With love,

Dr. Logan

ISOTHERMAL GRAD SET TO OPEN NEW HEALTHCARE BUSINESS.

SPINDALE (Aug. 5, 2021) — Alesha Logan, a nursing graduate from Isothermal Community College, is opening a new health clinic in Gastonia next week.

Logan graduated with an Associate’s Degree in Nursing in 2009. She went on to achieve bachelor’s and master’s degrees in nursing before earning her doctorate as a Nurse Practitioner from the University of Alabama - Huntsville.

After working for several years as a board-certified family nurse practitioner, she is opening Logos Health, a direct primary care facility in Gastonia. She will serve as the chief executive officer and medical director as well.

Unlike traditional primary care practices, Logos Health is a direct primary care (DPC) practice, and its unique model makes quality healthcare affordable to people whether they have insurance or not.

After caring for uninsured patients during the COVID pandemic, Logan began to recognize the barriers to quality care for those without insurance.

“Healthcare access remains an issue, and many people can simply not afford to take time away from their jobs. They often utilize the ER for primary care, and this drives up the overall cost of healthcare,” said Logan. “By opening a practice that doesn’t depend on the type of insurance you have, I’m able to care for families, businesses and individuals in a timely and personable manner. My patients love not having to incur a deductible or copay each time they need care and families are now saving a substantial amount on their healthcare costs. It also allows me to spend more time with my patients while also providing open availability for appointments so you can see me when and where you need me.”

Logos Health will hold a ribbon cutting ceremony to open its doors on Monday, Aug. 9, at 5 p.m. It is located at 1040 Xray Drive in Gastonia. The phone number is 704-389-3741.

The DPC model focuses on promoting quality healthcare, same day appointments and improved access to a primary care provider. Logos Health is not a traditional medical practice.

“For a similar cost to a low monthly gym membership, patients receive unlimited visits with direct access to a medical provider via text, video chat, and relaxed in-office visits – all with complete cost transparency,” said Logan.

For more information, visit www.logoshealth.org.

CALLED TO THE FIGHT

The events that have transpired in our country this year have sparked a righteous outcry. For many, this has served as an awakening of the harsh tragedies and realities that are still rampant in America. For others, it is confirmation of the pre-existing injustices and biases they have known to be true.

This is a disturbing time for all of us, but God has called you and I for such a time as this. Let’s be clear—this is a spiritual war. As Ephesians 6:12 states, we are not fighting flesh and blood. Our enemy is not any government official, race of people, or organization. Our enemy is Satan! This nation is hurting, and the body of Christ has been charged to engage in a spiritual battle to fight the enemy in our land—the spirit of racism and division.

Consider these practical steps to help promote unity:

1. Attend a worship service with someone from a different culture. Listen to a variety of worship music, preaching/teaching styles, and experience God in different ways. We serve a big God and he transcends culture!

2. Invite someone who doesn’t look like you out for lunch or to your home for dinner. Sit down and ask them to share their heart. Don’t take it personally. Allow them to vent and be heard. Then ask them to listen to your heart in return.

3. Minister to the “least of these.” As nurses, we often minister to the sick. I challenge you to expand your reach—seek out the fatherless, the widow, the homeless, the imprisoned. Jesus tells us in Matthew 25:40 that in doing this, “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers or sisters, you did for me.’”

4. Teach your children to openly accept and embrace people of all races and ethnicities. Lead by example. Ask your children to be intentional about learning from people who don’t look like them. As a Black woman, I learned to speak Russian from my childhood best friend.

5. At the dinner table, have an open dialogue with your family. What do they know about people from other cultures? What do they think about people who don’t look like them?

6. Don’t use words in private that you wouldn’t use publicly to describe people.

7. Better yet, don’t allow those around you to use offensive language. Check them—even it it’s your mama! Racism is taught and often is generational. We have certain perspectives from our parents and unknowingly pass them on to our children. If we condone discriminatory rhetoric by listening and engaging, then we, too, are partaking in sin.

8. Watch or read a documentary and educate yourself about the plight of Black people and other people of color in America. “13th” on Netflix is a great film that highlights racial injustices in this country.

9. Do not be quick to judge. Prejudice is the root of racism. Do a heart check-- what biases have crept into your thought life? Do you lock your car doors when certain people walk by? How would you feel if your child married someone of a different skin color? How do others in your family feel about this? If we are ever going to be effective, we must call out and confront this behavior. 

To read more from NCF on racial injustice, check out the recent blog post, "Nurses and Racism: Let's Talk!"

Alesha Logan, MSN, RN, FNP-BC, is a family nurse practitioner and assistant professor in the school of nursing at Indiana Wesleyan University. This article originally appeared in the university’s Office of Diversity and Inclusion Newsletter and is shared with the author’s permission.

Blog Post Title One

It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

Don’t worry about sounding professional. Sound like you. There are over 1.5 billion websites out there, but your story is what’s going to separate this one from the rest. If you read the words back and don’t hear your own voice in your head, that’s a good sign you still have more work to do.

Be clear, be confident and don’t overthink it. The beauty of your story is that it’s going to continue to evolve and your site can evolve with it. Your goal should be to make it feel right for right now. Later will take care of itself. It always does.

Blog Post Title Two

It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

Don’t worry about sounding professional. Sound like you. There are over 1.5 billion websites out there, but your story is what’s going to separate this one from the rest. If you read the words back and don’t hear your own voice in your head, that’s a good sign you still have more work to do.

Be clear, be confident and don’t overthink it. The beauty of your story is that it’s going to continue to evolve and your site can evolve with it. Your goal should be to make it feel right for right now. Later will take care of itself. It always does.

Blog Post Title Three

It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

Don’t worry about sounding professional. Sound like you. There are over 1.5 billion websites out there, but your story is what’s going to separate this one from the rest. If you read the words back and don’t hear your own voice in your head, that’s a good sign you still have more work to do.

Be clear, be confident and don’t overthink it. The beauty of your story is that it’s going to continue to evolve and your site can evolve with it. Your goal should be to make it feel right for right now. Later will take care of itself. It always does.

Blog Post Title Four

It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

Don’t worry about sounding professional. Sound like you. There are over 1.5 billion websites out there, but your story is what’s going to separate this one from the rest. If you read the words back and don’t hear your own voice in your head, that’s a good sign you still have more work to do.

Be clear, be confident and don’t overthink it. The beauty of your story is that it’s going to continue to evolve and your site can evolve with it. Your goal should be to make it feel right for right now. Later will take care of itself. It always does.