Palm Beach Gardens, FL – May 19, 2026 – Alan B. Miller Medical Center proudly announces its official opening, bringing advanced, patient-centered healthcare to the residents of northern Palm Beach County, the surrounding communities and beyond.
Located in the heart of the Alton community in Palm Beach Gardens, Alan B. Miller Medical Center is designed to deliver exceptional care close to home. With 156 private patient beds upon opening and plans for future expansion, the hospital represents a significant investment in the health and well-being of patients and the community.
The new state-of-the-art acute care hospital offers a full range of comprehensive services including Emergency Care with a helistop, Cardiology, Orthopedics, Surgery, Oncology, Neurosciences, Women’s Services, concierge services and advanced robotic surgery technology.
“Our vision for Alan B. Miller Medical Center has always been centered around access, innovation and compassionate care,” said Gina Melby, Chief Executive Officer. “We are proud to officially open our doors and serve this growing community with the latest technology, remarkable physicians, and an outstanding team dedicated to both clinical and patient experience excellence.”
The hospital campus spans approximately 34 acres and includes medical office buildings, modern patient amenities, outdoor healing spaces, and a thoughtfully designed environment focused on comfort, healing, and convenience for patients and families.
“This opening represents more than a new hospital—it represents our commitment to building a healthier tomorrow for patients and expanding access to high-quality healthcare across South Florida,” added Melby. “We aim to become a trusted healthcare destination for generations to come.”
Alan B. Miller Medical Center is located at 13655 Pasteur Boulevard, Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33418, near Alton and conveniently accessible from Interstate 95.
The salt therapy industry began quietly in small wellness rooms lined with Himalayan salt bricks, soft lighting, and calming music, where guests relaxed in reclining chairs breathing salt-infused air. For years, many viewed it as a niche wellness trend — somewhere between a spa treatment and holistic therapy. But by 2015, the industry has evolved into something much larger; a growing category of preventative wellness centered around respiratory health, immune system support, anti-aging and pain and inflammation reduction.
As modern life becomes more hectic and communities more crowded, people are spending increasing amounts of time indoors and connected to screens. Consumers are now searching for experiences that feel natural, calming, and restorative. Salt therapy businesses are adapting quickly to meet that demand. The traditional “salt cave” has transformed into an immersive wellness environment combining halotherapy with guided breathwork, meditation, sound healing, infrared and red-light therapy, PEMF therapy, and infrared saunas, creating a multi-sensory wellness experience designed to help people disconnect and recharge.
Medical researchers have also begun paying closer attention. While salt therapy is not promoted as a cure for disease, studies continue to explore its potential benefits for relaxation, sinus comfort, respiratory irritation, sleep quality, and overall wellness support. Healthcare providers, once skeptical, are increasingly open to partnering with wellness centers to recommend complementary therapies for patients dealing with respiratory-related concerns, environmental allergies, asthma, bronchitis, COPD, and stress-related conditions. In some cases, insurance providers and employers are beginning to allow the use of HSA and FSA accounts to help offset the cost of preventative wellness and respiratory-support services.
The customer base has widened dramatically over the last decade. Originally associated primarily with older adults or alternative wellness enthusiasts, salt therapy has become increasingly popular among younger consumers seeking mental reset experiences away from constant stimulation and digital overload. Parents are also searching for more natural wellness alternatives for their children. Many families report that salt therapy sessions provide a calming environment where children can play creatively in the salt — much like an old-fashioned sandbox — while stepping away from phones, tablets, and screens.
Industry analysts are beginning to categorize salt therapy not merely as a spa service, but as part of the broader preventative wellness movement alongside fitness,
mindfulness, nutrition, and recovery therapies. The businesses most likely to thrive in the coming years may not necessarily be the largest chains, but those that create authentic experiences, build strong community trust, and focus on education and personalized care.
The future of salt therapy was never truly about salt alone. It reflects a larger cultural shift in how people define wellness. Consumers are no longer simply chasing luxury or temporary escape — they are searching for balance, restoration, and meaningful self-care experiences that support both mental and physical well-being. At The Suite Western Lake Worth/Wellington, we are proud to be among the leaders helping shape the future of the salt therapy and wellness industry by creating spaces that promote relaxation, connection, respiratory wellness, and healing.
In a community known for its entrepreneurs, visionaries, and changemakers, certain individuals stand out not only for what they have built, but for the way they inspire those around them. The Wellington Edit recently had the opportunity to sit down with Wellington resident and business owner Jenell Harris for an exclusive conversation about their professional journey, personal philosophy, and the experiences that have shaped their success.
TWE: Tell us a little about your background and what led you to your profession.
I started my career in sales: first in the software and technology world and later in the dental and medical device industry, where I spent about 15 years. In 2018, I made the leap to join my husband Scott full-time in building our businesses — PYRA Promotions, Eleven30 Apparel, and SPARKED.
At the time, it felt exciting and terrifying all at once, but it ended up being one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Over the years, I’ve loved working with schools, sports teams, local businesses, nonprofits, and organizations throughout the community. Being a mom raising active kids in Wellington naturally connected me even more to the schools and families we work with every day.
I’ve always loved combining creativity, relationships, and problem-solving, so this business has been a perfect fit for me.
TWE: What do you find most rewarding about what you do?
The most rewarding part is seeing an idea come to life and knowing we helped make it happen. Whether it’s a fundraiser, a team store, or branded merchandise for a business, I love seeing people excited and proud of what we created together.
I also really value the relationships that come from this business. A lot of our clients have become genuine friends over the years, and I think that says a lot.
I especially enjoy working with children’s hospitals, schools and youth organizations because you can actually see the impact being made in the community.
TWE: How do you approach building relationships with the people you serve or work with?
People remember how you treat them, so I try to approach every relationship with honesty, responsiveness, and consistency.
Jenell’s Podcast @ Khanna House Studios
We never want clients to feel like just another order. We take time to understand what’s important to them and how we can make the process easier and less stressful. Over time, many of those working relationships turn into long-term friendships, which is one of my favorite parts of what we do.
Being involved in the Wellington community also makes those connections feel very genuine because we’re often supporting the same schools, sports teams, and local events.
TWE: What do you believe sets you or your business apart?
I think what sets us apart is that we genuinely care. We’re very hands-on, and we focus just as much on solving problems and making life easier for our clients as we do on the products themselves.
We’re always looking for creative ideas, better solutions, and ways to help organizations stand out without making things complicated. Our goal is simple — we want our clients to feel supported and look like rockstars.
TWE: What does a typical day look like for you?
No two days are ever the same, which honestly keeps life interesting. One day I may be coordinating projects in the office, the next I’m meeting with clients, helping with operations, or hosting our podcast.
At the same time, I’m balancing family life, sports schedules, school events, and everything that comes with being a mom. Some days are a little chaotic, but I wouldn’t trade it.
TWE: What keeps you motivated and passionate about your work?
I love building things, solving problems, and seeing people succeed. There’s always something new happening, which keeps things exciting.
Community Service Project
I’m also very motivated by my family. I want my kids to see the value of hard work, creativity, resilience, and building something you truly care about. They love stopping by the office and being part of what we do, which makes it even more meaningful.
TWE: What advice would you give someone who wants to enter your field?
Focus on relationships and customer experience first. This industry is competitive, but people always remember who they trust and who made things easy for them.
I’d also say to stay adaptable and never stop learning. Things move quickly, trends change, and clients value people who can solve problems and stay calm under pressure.
Most importantly, be authentic. People are naturally drawn to genuine energy and passion.
TWE: What are some of your favorite things to do or places to visit in Wellington?
One of my favorite things about Wellington is the sense of community. We spend a lot of time at local schools, sports fields, restaurants, and community events because that’s really the heart of the area.
I also love supporting local businesses whenever possible — small businesses have to stick together. Between the family atmosphere, great restaurants, and everything happening year-round, Wellington is such a special place to live and raise a family. We feel very lucky to call it home and rarely leave “Ring Road”.
Pace Palm Beach honored a local family with the dedication of “Melissa’s Garden,” a student-supported memorial space created in honor of Melissa, whose life was tragically lost to suicide last spring
Melissa’s Family
Palm Springs, FL – In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, Pace Center for Girls Palm Beach hosted a heartfelt dedication ceremony honoring a local family who experienced the tragic loss of their daughter, Melissa, to suicide last spring. The ceremony marked the official dedication of “Melissa’s Garden,” a peaceful space created to honor her memory while raising awareness about the importance of mental health support for young people and families throughout the community.
Held at Pace Palm Beach’s campus in Palm Springs, the event brought together students, staff, volunteers, community supporters, and the family for a meaningful tribute centered on healing, hope, and remembrance.
“Melissa’s Garden” was made possible through the collective efforts of Pace girls, volunteers, and community supporters. Pace girls participated in fundraising efforts for the garden’s build-out by selling chocolates to help support the project. Additionally, three dedicated volunteers donated their time and talents to construct the arden boxes, benches, and picnic tables over two weekends, helping transform the vision into a welcoming and reflective outdoor space.
The dedication ceremony served as both a tribute to Melissa’s life and a reminder of the critical need for accessible mental health resources and compassionate support systems for girls and young women. Throughout the event, attendees reflected on the importance of open conversations surrounding mental health and suicide prevention, especially among youth.
“Melissa’s Garden is a space rooted in love, remembrance, and healing,” shared Mindy Hanken, Executive Director of Pace Center for Girls Palm Beach. “While no family should ever have to endure the heartbreak of losing a child to suicide, we hope this garden serves as a lasting tribute to Melissa’s life and a place where our girls and community can reflect, find comfort, and remember the importance of supporting one another through life’s most difficult moments. We are deeply grateful to Melissa’s family, our girls, and the volunteers who helped create something so meaningful in her honor.”
The ceremony highlighted Pace Palm Beach’s ongoing commitment to supporting the social and emotional well-being of girls through individualized care, counseling services, and community partnerships. As mental health challenges continue to affect young people across the country, Pace remains dedicated to fostering resilience, connections, and emotional wellness for every girl it serves.
Through projects like “Melissa’s Garden,” Pace Palm Beach continues to advance its mission of creating environments where girls feel empowered, supported, and equipped to navigate life’s challenges. The organization hopes the dedication inspires continued awareness surrounding mental health and encourages compassionate conversations about healing, prevention, and support for those impacted by loss.
To learn more about Pace Palm Beach and how to get involved, visit www.pacecenter.org.
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About Pace Center for Girls
Pace provides free year-round middle and high school academics, case management, counseling, and life skills development in a safe and supportive environment that recognizes and deals with past trauma and builds upon girls’ individual strengths. Dedicated to meeting the social, emotional, and educational needs of girls, Pace has a successful and proven program model that has changed the life trajectory of more than 40,000 girls and is recognized as one of the nation’s leading advocates for girls in need. For more information on Pace Center for Girls, visit www.pacecenter.org.
Delray Beach (May 18, 2026)—Le Colonial, the acclaimed French-Vietnamese restaurant located at 601 East Atlantic Avenue in downtown Delray Beach, is offering two new desserts created by Marta Kantorowicz, who has just joined as National Pastry Director. The new items are:
Tropical Breeze, which is a crisp pavlova with coconut whipped ganache, pineapple ginger compote and lemon sorbet ($14); and Golden Saigon with delicate mango mousse layered with makrut lime curd, coconut crunch and vanilla sablé Breton ($17).
Marta Kantorowicz is an internationally trained pastry chef recognized for her refined artistry, technical precision, and contemporary approach to dessert. She was recently named National Pastry Director for Le Colonial, where she oversees the pastry program across the brand’s locations, leading the development of seasonal creations and shaping the evolution of the restaurant’s dessert offerings.
Originally from Poland, Marta began her academic studies in chemistry before pursuing a creative path in design and floral artistry. Her passion for craftsmanship and visual composition ultimately led her to the world of pastry, where she discovered a natural harmony between science, technique, and artistic expression.
A graduate of The French Pastry School in Chicago, Marta has built her career within some of the most respected fine-dining kitchens in the United States. She previously worked with the highly regarded culinary ateliers of Joël Robuchon and Le Jardinier in Miami.
At Le Colonial, Marta is curating a collection of refined desserts that seek to strike a delicate balance between the vibrant flavors of Vietnamese and Southeast Asian cuisine and the elegance of classical French pastry techniques. Her creations are designed not simply as sweets, but as thoughtful finales to the dining experience— layering sweetness, texture, aroma, and visual elegance to complement the restaurant’s French-Vietnamese culinary identity. Marta continues to evolve the Le Colonial pastry program with desserts that are precise, modern, and visually striking, while remaining deeply connected to the restaurant’s cultural inspiration and refined dining philosophy.
Le Colonial Delray Beach is open for dinner from 5:00 to 9:30 p.m. and serves lunch on the weekends. For menu and reservations, call (561) 566-1800 or visit LeColonial.com or OpenTable.
Leesburg, Virginia (May 19, 2026)- The International Polo Tour® (IPT) Hotels at Sea® Luxury Cruises Polo Team is bringing its signature blend of luxury, athletic energy, and global sporting prestige back to the nation’s capital region starting this June at historic Morven Park, IPT’s summer home in Virginia.
The announcement comes just months ahead of the annual IPT Sunset Polo™ White Lotus 250th Anniversary Invitational World Cup, benefiting We Will Survive Cancer, which will take place at Morven Park for the first time in the event’s expansive history on September 19th.
“We are thrilled to return to Morven Park this summer, especially as Virginia’s beautiful season creates the perfect setting for players, guests, families, and fans,” said Tareq Salahi, Chairman of the Board of the International Polo Tour® and Hotels & Resorts at Sea®. “We look forward to transforming Saturday evenings into unforgettable showcases of sport, hospitality, and community for our amazing fans throughout Virginia and the greater capital region.”
Beginning this June, Hotels at Sea Luxury Cruises will welcome its cruise suite guests & polo lovers and first-time spectators alike to enjoy a vibrant blend of sport, style, and social energy. Set against the historic and picturesque backdrop of Morven Park, the series will bring together sports enthusiasts, families, VIP guests, cruise clientele, and the local community for a new summer tradition in Leesburg.
Each Saturday evening, Hotels at Sea® Luxury Cruises guests will be invited to experience the matches from the IPT Hotels at Sea Luxury Cruises exclusive hospitality box—an elegant vantage point to take in the speed, precision, and beauty of world-class polo as the sun sets over Virginia’s rolling countryside.
The Summer Polo Series is part of IPT’s expanding national footprint, which includes additional IPT Sunset Polo™ events held globally in partnership with leading polo organizations. Together, these events celebrate the sport’s rich heritage while creating modern, accessible, and high-energy experiences designed to introduce polo to new audiences.
“Morven Park in Loudoun County, Virginia has become one of the most exciting summer polo destinations for us,” added Salahi. “It is the wealthiest county in the United States and is where many of our upper suite clients for our global luxury cruise ships and yacht partners are located. We are bringing together the thrill of the sport with the magic of our legendary Hotels at Sea® luxury hospitality on warm summer nights—an experience unlike anything else in the region.”
The 2026 series will feature elevated hospitality, curated entertainment, and IPT’s signature atmosphere, blending luxury, community, and the timeless spirit of polo. Whether guests come for the sport, the social scene, or a memorable summer evening outdoors, the IPT Hotels at Sea® Summer Polo Series is poised to become one of Virginia’s standout seasonal events.
LAKE WORTH, Fla. (May 20, 2026) — Palm Beach State College (PBSC) named its new Dental and Health Innovation building at the Dennis P. Gallon Campus in Loxahatchee Groves in honor of alumni Julie and John Kime, recognizing their decades of generosity and support of the college.
The Kimes are among PBSC’s most generous donors and have long supported student scholarships and other opportunities. Their legacy is already evident on the Loxahatchee Groves campus through the Julie and John Kime Library Learning Resource Center, which opened in 2022 and serves as a hub for studying, collaboration and student success.
After long and successful careers in the insurance industry, the Kimes have continued to invest in their community and in the next generation of PBSC students. Julie Kime, a PBSC alumna, has also helped expand access through the Julie Kime Hispanic Women Scholarship, which has opened doors for students pursuing their education.
“Julie and John have been steadfast friends of Palm Beach State College, and their support has made a meaningful and lasting impact on our institution,” said PBSC President Ava L. Parker, J.D. “Their commitment reflects what we value most at PBSC: when you invest in students, you invest in the future of our entire community.”
For Julie Kime, the naming carries deep personal meaning. “Standing on this campus means more to me than I can say. This is where my journey truly began,” she said. “John and I believe that every student deserves a chance — a chance to learn, a chance to grow and a chance to dream.”
Kime said Palm Beach State gave her and her husband the foundation for successful careers and inspired them to give back through scholarships and community support.
The four-story, 83,954-square-foot building will expand healthcare education and increase access to affordable dental care in Palm Beach County’s fast-growing western communities. The facility includes virtual reality labs and the Anatomage Table, a 3D anatomy visualization system, helping prepare students for careers in dental hygiene, surgical technology and other high-demand health care fields.
PBSC also said the building will continue its community service mission through the on-site modern dental training and treatment center, which is open to the public.
“The Dental and Health Innovation building positions PBSC as the cornerstone for healthcare education in our region,” Parker said. “It’s more than just a building — it’s a commitment to opportunity and the well-being of our county.”
The Julie and John Kime Dental and Health Innovation building will serve students, patients and the community for years to come.
Community Partners of South Florida (CPSFL) invites the community, partners, and media to attend its upcoming sunset reception, “Prosperity in the Palm Beaches: Pathways and Partnerships.”
The event, which coincides with the national celebration of NeighborWorks Week, will take place on Thursday, May 28, 2026 at 5:00pm at Manatee Lagoon, located at 6000 N Flagler Drive in West Palm Beach and feature a proclamation presentation from District 7 commissioner, the Honorable Bobby Powell, Jr.
The organization is celebrating 40 years of dedicated service to Palm Beach County and under the banner of Pathways and Partnerships, the reception will also honor the collective network of residents, local leaders, and stakeholders who drive CPSFL’s mission forward.
“For four decades, our work has been fueled by the belief that true community transformation happens together,” said Kelly Powell, CEO of Community Partners of South Florida. “This reception is a formal thank you to the partners who make our work possible and a reaffirmation of our shared commitment to advancing health, housing, and economic mobility across Palm Beach County.”
In addition to celebrating the organization’s 40th anniversary, the event highlights NeighborWorks Week, a nationwide initiative showcasing how local organizations empower residents, create affordable housing opportunities, and build strong neighborhoods.
Attendees will enjoy sunset views at Manatee Lagoon while networking with fellow community champions dedicated to regional prosperity.
Registration is required as space is limited. Members of the community and media can RSVP by scanning the QR code on the official event invitation or visiting www.cpsfl.org.
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About Community Partners of South Florida
Community Partners of South Florida is a $15 million comprehensive community development nonprofit agency headquartered in Riviera Beach that provides services to families facing social, emotional, and financial adversity. By using a unique, breakthrough approach integrating housing and financial empowerment, child and family mental health, and community services, Community Partners of South Florida creates self-sustaining families and communities and serves as a driver for growing its local economy. For more information about Community Partners of South Florida, visit www.cpsfl.org. Community Partners of South Florida is a proud chartered affiliate of NeighborWorks America, a national, nonpartisan nonprofit striving to make every community a place of opportunity.
Palm Beach Orthopaedic Instituteoffers new robotics-assisted surgical option
The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons estimates knee replacement surgeries are expected to increase a staggering 180% between now and 2030 in United States1. In Palm Beach County alone, Dr. Jonathan Shaw is one of the few surgeons performing robotic knee revisions.
Dr. Jonathan Shaw, M.D., Palm Beach Orthopaedic Institute
What’s especially troubling for many doctors is the number of patients who are unaware of robotics-assisted procedures and recent advancements that have been made in the field of orthopaedics.
“I tell the majority of my patients to forget everything they thought they knew about knee surgery,”Dr. Jonathan Shaw, Palm Beach Orthopaedic Institute, said. “Within the last few years, the advancements in robotics-assisted knee surgery alone have been a game changer for my patients.”
A recent survey conducted by global implant maker, Smith+Nephew and Kantar showed procedure fears and recovery time were the biggest concerns patients had about moving forward, but they expressed near-unanimous interest in discussing robotics-assisted knee surgery with their physician.
Robotics-assisted knee replacement surgery using the CORITM Surgical System combined with the features and benefits of Smith+Nephew’s implant portfolio can lead to the following patient benefits:
Quicker, smoother recovery2
Regain function faster and return home sooner3
A unique plan: We use 3D digital modeling to get a surgical plan customized to the patients’ unique anatomy. This means our surgeon can perform the procedure more accurately than traditional knee replacement surgery.4,5
A natural fit: Using these technologies patients can keep more of their natural bone and ligaments, including the ACL. 6 That helps maintain more of a natural rhythm and step.7
A wide selection: Our surgeon is able to choose from the widest selection of implants available, so implants can be precision-matched to feel more like a patient’s own knee.
Palm Beach Orthopaedic Instituterecently upgraded its robotics-assisted knee surgery offerings to include the CORI Surgical System.
To learn more about Dr. Jonathan Shaw and Palm Beach Orthopaedic Institute, visit www.pboi.com.
Wellington Bay, the premier luxury senior living community in Wellington, Florida, recently hosted its highly anticipated Resident Art Show on Sunday, May 3, 2026.
The event transformed into a community-wide celebration, showcasing 44 impressive works of art created by 25 of its talented resident artists.
The exhibition highlighted an incredible range of artistic media and creative talent, demonstrating the community’s diverse interests and passions:
Painting & Drawing: Watercolor, acrylic, oil, traditional drawing, chalk, and mixed media.
Textiles: Knitting, traditional Norwegian Hardanger embroidery, and tatting.
Sculpture & Photography: Professional-grade photography, floral art, and sculptures.
The exhibition also featured embroidery and lace tatting work entered by a resident from Lisbet Assisted Living.
The event was attended by residents, family members, friends, and staff, who gathered to appreciate the collection while enjoying live harp music, champagne, and light bites.
“We are grateful to all our resident artists who shared their extraordinary talents with us for this year’s show,” said Jay Mikosch, Executive Campus Director at Wellington Bay. “Art is vital for senior citizens because it promotes healthy aging by stimulating cognitive function, reducing stress, and fighting loneliness. Seeing our community come together to celebrate these gifts is a reminder of how dynamic life at Wellington Bay truly is.”
Much of the artwork displayed originated in Wellington Bay’s resident-led clubs such as the Diamond Art and Knitting clubs and the community’s various creative classes.
The exhibition put a spotlight on the collaborative spirit of the campus, where residents volunteer their time to teach jewelry making and crafts alongside an outside professional instructor who facilitates mixed media and painting sessions.
A special highlight of the afternoon was the presentation of the resident-led annual photography contest. While all residents were invited to submit their favorite shots, the five winning photographs were featured prominently at the exhibition. These winning pieces have now been hung in the main lobby of Wellington Bay, where they will remain on display for the rest of the year.
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About Wellington Bay
Wellington Bay is a luxury rental retirement community offering independent living, assisted living, respite care, and advanced memory care at the Lisbet Health Center, located onsite in Wellington, Florida. The community is dedicated to supporting active aging and vibrant living, offering something for everyone.
Named one of the “Best Places to Retire” by Money Magazine, Wellington boasts a thriving equestrian community, premier golf courses, and scenic neighborhoods.
Wellington Bay is owned and operated by Liberty Senior Living, LLC, a division of Liberty Healthcare Management specializing in senior living communities. To learn more about Liberty Senior Living and its communities, visitwww.LibertySeniorLiving.com.
As hurricane season approaches in South Florida, attention is typically directed toward infrastructure, emergency supplies, and evacuation planning. However, a consistent and often under recognized consequence of storm preparation and post-storm recovery is an increase in orthopedic injuries. Orthopedic providers in the region observe predictable injury patterns related not to the storm itself, but to the physical demands of preparation and cleanup.
Pre-storm activities–such as installing shutters, moving outdoor furniture, clearing debris, and securing property–frequently involve repetitive overhead motion, heavy lifting, and using unfamiliar tools. These activities can contribute to acute injuries as well as exacerbations of underlying degenerative conditions.
Dr. John Hinson, M.D., Palm Beach Orthopaedic Institute
Shoulder and elbow injuries are among the most common cases during this period. According to Dr. John Hinson, an orthopedic surgeon specializing in shoulder and elbow conditions at Palm Beach Orthopaedic Institute, patients frequently present with rotator cuff strains, tendinitis, and ligament sprains following prolonged or improper use of the upper extremities. Tasks that involve lifting overhead, operating power drills, and carrying heavy objects can place significant strain on the shoulder girdle and elbow joints. Individuals who are not accustomed to these movements, particularly older adults and those with preexisting conditions, are at a higher risk.
Preventive strategies for upper extremity injuries include pacing activities over several days, using proper lifting mechanics, and avoiding sustained overhead work without rest intervals. When possible, the use of assistive devices or additional personnel to distribute workload may reduce strain. Early recognition of symptoms such as persistent pain, weakness, or reduced range of motion is important to prevent progression to more significant injury.
Dr. Jonathan Shaw, M.D., Palm Beach Orthopaedic Institute
Lower extremity injuries, particularly involving the hips and knees, are also frequently observed during hurricane preparation and recovery. Dr. Jonathan Shaw, another orthopedic surgeon at Palm Beach Orthopaedic Institute, specializes in hip and knee conditions. He sees an increase in cases of knee sprains, meniscus injuries, and exacerbation of osteoarthritis during this time. These injuries are often associated with lifting heavy debris, navigating uneven or wet surfaces, and performing twisting movements under load.
Post-storm environments can also increase risk due to unstable footing, poor visibility, and debris-laden terrain. Slips, trips, and falls are common mechanisms leading to injury. Individuals may underestimate the physical demands of cleanup efforts, especially when working for prolonged periods without adequate rest or hydration.
Risk mitigation for hip and knee injuries includes wearing supportive footwear with slip-resistant soles, being aware of environmental hazards, and avoiding sudden or forceful twisting movements while carrying loads. Individuals with known joint disease or prior injury should consider delegating high-risk tasks or using protective bracing where appropriate.
Across all injury types, fatigue is a significant contributing factor. Extended work periods without breaks can impair coordination and increase susceptibility to injury. Adequate hydration, scheduled rest intervals, and realistic task planning are essential components of injury prevention in hurricane-preparatory season.
Healthcare facilities and providers may anticipate a seasonal increase in orthopedic cases associated with hurricane activity. Public education efforts that emphasize safe preparation practices may reduce the incidence of injuries and associated healthcare utilization. Messaging should focus on practical, accessible guidance tailored to a broad population, including older adults and individuals with limited prior experience in manual labor.
While hurricane preparedness remains essential for community safety, awareness of the associated physical risks is equally important. Incorporating injury-prevention strategies into storm-preparation plans may help reduce the burden of avoidable orthopedic conditions during this period.
To learn more about Dr. John Hinson and Dr. Jonathan Shaw at Palm Beach Orthopaedic Institute, please visit www.pboi.com.
Pembroke Pines, FL – On April 29, 2026, Memorial Healthcare System hosted its Fifth Annual Memorial Healthcare Career Day Expo at Children’s Harbor in Pembroke Pines. This empowering event aimed to inspire teens and youth in foster care to explore various career paths and start creating personalized plans for their futures. With the involvement of local industry professionals across Broward County, Children’s Harbor teens asked questions, gained invaluable insights and hands-on experiences, encouraging them to pursue their interests and reach their highest potential.
Teens had the opportunity to engage in mock interviews, build a resume, plan a professional outfit, and get an up-to-date headshot taken to help them prepare for the workforce. The success of the Memorial Healthcare Career Day Expo aligns closely with the values and mission of Children’s Harbor. Children’s Harbor is a nationally accredited nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening families in our community by providing safe shelter and support to teens in foster care, helping them to grow into healthy, educated, and productive adults.
Mélanie C. Eugene, Ed.D. – Community Program Specialist, MHSt; Nickolas F Vargovic, Specialist – Student/Community Programs, MHS; Kara Powell, MPH, MHS
Children’s Harbor focuses on supporting children who have experienced the trauma of child abuse at its main campus in Pembroke Pines. Supported by year-round recruitment efforts, this career fair helped Children’s Harbor’s kids discover their passions and purpose.
“The career expo matters because it puts our teens face-to-face with people doing the jobs they’re curious about,” said Tiffani Dhooge, President and CEO of Children’s Harbor. “That kind of exposure changes what a kid believes is possible for them. Thank you to Memorial Healthcare System and every professional who showed up for our kids.”
Memorial Healthcare System is a public, nonprofit hospital system that provides healthcare services to South Florida residents. To learn more about Memorial Healthcare System, please visit https://www.mhs.net/.
To learn more about Children’s Harbor and the difference we are making in the lives of children affected by trauma and abuse, please visit childrensharbor.org.
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About Children’s Harbor
Established in 1996, Children’s Harbor is a nationally accredited child welfare organization with a mission to help strengthen families who are struggling in our community, while providing safe shelter and support to teens in foster care so that they may grow into healthy, educated, and productive adults.
With the belief that children should feel safe, that family is worth fighting for, and that cycles can be broken, Children’s Harbor provides a harbor of hope and healing for children who have been impacted by the trauma of child abuse. The main campus in Pembroke Pines provides a supportive family environment for teenagers in foster care and their younger siblings. The family support services program prevents kids from coming into foster care by providing free in-home counseling and support to families who are struggling in the community. Additionally, Brown’s Harbor is a supportive housing community dedicated to serving young adults, aged 18-23, who have aged out of the foster care system. These young adults are provided with affordable housing and the wrap-around support and independent living programs necessary to help them overcome their trauma and navigate through the early stages of adulthood.
To learn more about Children’s Harbor and the difference we are making in the lives of children affected by trauma and abuse, please visit childrensharbor.org.
