Health care. How blessed we are to live in a country that has what we need, when we need it and most often, where we need it. The opportunity to seek out the health care of our choosing distinguishes us from many parts of the world. Nine years ago, I proceeded into my family doctor’s office for a standard, yearly physical. I exited his office as a cancer patient. I was thirty-four and ‘healthy as a horse,’ my doctor commented ‘well... except for the cancer’. However, within a week I had undergone surgery and within another three weeks, I had commenced radiation treatment. Within a matter of months of my diagnosis I was declared ‘cancer-free’ and I am forever grateful to all of those involved. In our four-county, two-state Piedmont region we are fortunate to have five exemplary hospitals and countless professionals providing medical care to our citizens. In this issue you’ll find out what our area hospitals are doing to maintain the level of services that we sometimes take for granted. You’ll also read about innovative new advances in areas of health care that you may not have realized were available locally. From massage and laughter therapy to dental and audiological breakthroughs, Piedmont Magazine is spreading the positive news!A continued thanks to our advertisers. Without you this magazine would not be possible. We also want to thank you, our readers, for your continued support. If you have thoughts or comments, please send me an e-mail. I would love to hear from you and, as always, welcome to your Piedmont Magazine! -PM
Gary CornsPUBLISHER
PUBLISHER’S NOTE: As an alumnus of Virginia Tech (‘85), my heart broke as the events of April 16th unfolded. For the victims and their families and for the medical, professional and academic providers who attended to the needs of all, you remain in our thoughts and prayers.
