(NAPSI)—What seemed like an ordinary morning for four-year-old Kelly Bernard Igwe became life-altering. She woke up with her left arm completely numb, as if she had slept on it wrong. But this was not the temporary tingling that comes from an awkward sleeping position.

Her mother noticed something was different. Bernard Igwe was pulling up her clothing with only one arm, and she developed what her mother initially thought was an adorable, crooked smile. When Bernard Igwe began walking with a limp that persisted for days, her mother knew something was seriously wrong. The diagnosis revealed that Bernard Igwe, who was born with sickle cell disease, had suffered a stroke.

A Silent Crisis

Around 10 percent of children with sickle cell disease – the most common inherited blood disorder in the U.S. – experience a symptomatic stroke, with the risk being highest between ages two and five. Without preventative treatments such as regular blood transfusions, at least 60 percent of these children are at risk for another stroke.

What followed for Bernard Igwe was a regimen of blood transfusions every four to six weeks throughout her childhood—a medical lifeline that continues today through seven to eight units of red blood cell exchanges, a non-surgical therapy that removes abnormal red blood cells and replaces them with healthy ones from blood donors every six to seven weeks.

“I wouldn’t be alive without transfusions,” Bernard Igwe said. “There was a high likelihood of me having another stroke had I not started getting blood transfusions when I was young.”

Bernard Igwe’s journey highlights the devastating impact of sickle cell disease and the transformative power of blood donations. Sickle cell disease distorts soft, round red blood cells into hard, crescent shapes that block blood flow and oxygen delivery, causing severe pain, organ damage, and life-threatening complications such as strokes.

Joined by Blood

Frequent blood transfusions can make finding compatible blood more difficult when patients with sickle cell disease develop antibodies. Blood donors who are Black are almost three times more likely to be a match for these patients compared to other donors—making the increase in African American donors critical.

To help ensure these lifesaving treatments remain available, the American Red Cross is mobilizing communities through its fall Joined by Blood activation, hosting more than 750 blood drives nationwide through partnerships with the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America, historically Black colleges and universities, Black Greek organizations, Delta Air Lines and more.

Empowered to Dream

Rather than limiting her aspirations, the transfusions became Bernard Igwe’s launching pad. Throughout childhood, she excelled as a student and athlete, then pursued a career in healthcare after being inspired by her own medical providers. Today, she works as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist, transforming her personal resilience into hope for others.

“Earning my doctorate and becoming a CRNA was a lifelong dream,” Bernard Igwe said. “Persevering through school despite my health challenges is something I’m really proud of.”

Bernard Igwe’s story shows how blood donations don’t just sustain life—they fuel dreams and careers.

“It is so important to donate blood if you’re able,” Bernard Igwe said. “Many of us rely on blood donations to live.”

How You Can Help

The Joined by Blood activation creates a powerful connection between donors and patients, giving those with sickle cell disease the security of knowing their communities stand ready to support them, while empowering donors to tap into their lifesaving power. To help people living with sickle cell disease, schedule an appointment to give blood by visiting RedCrossBlood.org/OurBlood or calling 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

For a happier holiday season, remember to take care of your health.

(NAPSI)­—The holiday season is one of the most anticipated times of the year—and one of the most demanding for maintaining your health.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), colder weather, irregular routines and nutritional changes can combine to weaken your immune system, making it easier to catch respiratory illnesses like colds, flu or RSV. Add in stress, sleep disruption and emotional strain, and the holidays can test even the healthiest among us.

According to Dr. David Fairchild, MD, MPH, SVP and Chief Medical Officer, Retail Health, CVS Health®, the key to feeling your best during the holidays is preparation and self-awareness. That means taking preventive steps and knowing where to turn for care when you need it.

Prep for a Healthy Holiday Season

Before the holidays, make sure your vaccinations are up to date, including flu, COVID-19, RSV and pneumonia. Staying current on vaccines is an easy way to protect yourself and your loved ones.

It’s also important to remember the basics: Wash your hands frequently, get plenty of rest, and prioritize eating healthy fruits and vegetables which boost immunity and support digestion, according to the CDC.

MinuteClinic®, located inside select CVS Pharmacy® stores, offers convenient access to vaccinations and wellness checks, seven days a week. If you do experience sick symptoms, licensed providers can help with treatment planning for common conditions. You can also connect with MinuteClinic Virtual Care, available 24/7—including holidays—for sick care wherever you are.

Take Care of Your Emotional Well-Being

Holidays can also take a toll on emotional health. With the stressors caused by travel delays, financial pressures and family expectations, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed.

Simple steps can help ease these feelings. Getting outdoors – even briefly – can boost mental well-being. Fresh air, sunlight or a brisk walk or jog can restore energy and lift your mood. Staying active is a great way to support emotional balance throughout the season. For those in colder climates, it’s helpful to bundle up and take advantage of mild days or plan outdoor activities like hiking or skiing.

If emotional challenges become difficult to manage, licensed therapists at MinuteClinic offer virtual counseling for age 13+ in most states and in-person in select metro markets, helping patients manage stress, anxiety and other mental health challenges with professional support tailored to their needs.

Plan Ahead for Peace of Mind

Planning ahead can make a big difference, especially when celebrating away from home. Pack a small “health kit” with essentials like hand sanitizer, pain relievers and a thermometer, along with any prescription medications.

If you’re traveling internationally, talk to a health care provider before your trip for advice on vaccines, medications and preventive steps to help avoid complications abroad.

For individuals managing chronic conditions or seeking a more comprehensive care plan, you can rely on MinuteClinic locations in select states that now offer adult primary care. These clinics offer expanded services, specialty referrals and ongoing care from nurse practitioners and physician associates who serve as primary care providers with oversight from board-certified collaborating physicians.

Finding Balance This Holiday Season

Ultimately, staying healthy during the holidays isn’t about perfection, it’s about balance. Maintaining sleep routines, staying hydrated, eating nourishing foods, and setting realistic expectations can all support your well-being during this busy time.

“When you take simple preventive steps and have a care plan in place, you’re not just protecting your physical health – you’re supporting your mental well-being too,” said Dr. Fairchild. “By addressing potential health concerns early, you can help prevent chronic conditions, reduce stress and create more space for meaningful connections and lasting memories. Prevention is truly the foundation of holistic health.”

With MinuteClinic locations across the U.S., and virtual care available nationwide, quality, affordable care is always within reach.

Learn More

You can find more information when you visit MinuteClinic.com.

Now is the time to fight the flu. Fortunately, it can be fast and easy to get a flu shot.

(NAPS) – Flu symptoms are often coupled with uncertainty. What steps can you take if you start feeling sick? Is it really the flu, or something else? And what products are available to help support symptom relief? Having clear answers and knowing where to get help can make the process easier to manage. With more than 9,000 locations nationwide, CVS Pharmacy® can help by providing convenient options for prevention and care all in one place.

What to do if you suspect you have the flu

When symptoms arise, it’s not always easy to know what’s behind them. Because flu, COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses share common symptoms, says the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), testing is typically the best way to get clarity. At CVS Pharmacy, patients can purchase a 3-in-1 COVID-19 and flu test over the counter at any location. In-store testing, however, is available at select locations across 38 states. In some states, pharmacists may also prescribe treatment during the same visit, helping you begin care right away.

Finding relief when you’re sick

Getting diagnosed early means you can also start treatment sooner if eligible. According to the CDC, antiviral medications may be prescribed to help shorten the duration and severity of the flu. But feeling better often starts with everyday health habits. When symptoms such as fever, cough or congestion arise, over-the-counter (OTC) products can support symptom relief. CVS Pharmacy carries a wide selection of flu care essentials, including cold and flu symptom relief support products, immune system support supplements and disinfectant cleaning products, making it simple to get what you need when you’re under the weather. Pairing these with healthy routines can help you recover more comfortably.

In addition to OTC treatments, you can take everyday actions, the CDC advises, to help stop the spread of germs. Remember to:

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick
• Cover coughs and sneezes
• Wash your hands often with soap and water
• Minimize touching your eyes, nose and mouth

Vaccination is still the best protection

Even with testing and treatment available, the first and most important step to prevent flu is to get a flu vaccine each year. This is the best way to help protect yourself and your family from the flu and its potentially serious complications, says the CDC. Different strains of the flu circulate each season, the CDC adds, so don’t assume that if you have already had the flu, you will not get it again. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reports that even if you have already had the flu this season, you should still make it a priority to receive the flu shot.

The CDC recommends that individuals make plans to get vaccinated before flu season begins, and preferably no later than the end of October, making now an important time to get your flu shot. While it’s preferable to get a flu vaccine by the end of October, people can get vaccinated as long as flu viruses pose a threat to the community.

The bottom line

From annual flu shots to testing, treatment, OTC essentials and pharmacist guidance, CVS Pharmacy offers resources to help you prepare for and manage flu in a trusted community destination.

Whether you’re looking for answers or relief, the right support is close to home. Vaccine appointments can be scheduled anytime at CVS.com or through the CVS Health app – or you can simply walk into your nearest location.

In addition to vaccines, you’ll find a wide range of services and products to support your health, so you can feel your best.

Depending on your age and health status, vaccines for flu, COVID-19, RSV, and pneumococcal disease may be recommended for you.

(NAPSI)­—In most of the United States, respiratory illnesses like flu, COVID-19, RSV, and pneumococcal disease consistently show increased activity between October and March. That’s in part because during the fall and winter, people spend more time indoors and close to one another, making it easier for respiratory illnesses to spread.

These infectious diseases can cause more than just a few days of sickness or missed work. In some cases, they can disrupt your life, cause a financial burden, or even lead to complications such as long-term health issues or hospitalization—and infants, older adults and individuals with chronic health conditions are at higher risk for severe illness.

That’s why vaccination is an important step to help stay protected this fall. Getting vaccinated can mean the difference between a mild infection and a severe illness.

Respiratory Vaccines Help Protect You and Those You Love

Vaccination is the best protection – helping to reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses in your community, especially to those most vulnerable.

Depending on your age and health status, vaccines for flu, COVID-19, RSV, and pneumococcal disease may be recommended for you. As you age, your immune system naturally weakens, putting older adults at a significantly higher risk of severe illness and hospitalization from these respiratory diseases.

That’s why staying up to date on respiratory vaccines is an important fall activity, starting with getting your seasonal flu shot. The 2025-2026 flu vaccine has been approved and recommended by CDC for everyone ages 6 months and older, with rare exception2025-2026 COVID-19 vaccines are also recommended by CDC based on individual decision-making for those 6 months to 64 years of age, especially if you are at increased risk for severe COVID-19, and for adults 65 years and older.

Individual decision-making means that the choice to get vaccinated is best made individually and CDC encourages you to talk to a health care provider, like a doctor, nurse, or pharmacist, to help make the best choice for you. However, you don’t need a prescription to get a COVID-19 vaccine.

The RSV vaccine is recommended for all adults ages 75 and older and for adults ages 50-74 who are at increased risk of severe illness from RSV, such as those with chronic heart or lung disease and those who live in a long-term care facility.

Lastly, all adults ages 50 and older should receive a pneumococcal vaccine if they haven’t previously. Adults ages 19-49 may also need a pneumococcal vaccine if you have certain medical conditions that can increase your risk for infections like pneumonia. Adults can receive RSV and pneumococcal vaccines at any time of the year.

Staying Protected This Fall

Flu, COVID-19, RSV, and pneumococcal vaccines can be given at your local pharmacy, health care provider, or community health center. Medicaid, Medicare, and private insurance all cover recommended vaccines at no cost to you but check with your insurer to make sure the pharmacy or health care provider is in-network. You can also call ahead to your local pharmacy or health center to ensure availability.

Visit CVEEP.org for more vaccine resources, including the most up-to-date vaccine recommendations, and to learn about vaccines that offer the best protection against severe illness. You can also use CVEEP’s Vaccine Locator to find a vaccination location near you.

(NAPSI) – Have you or someone you love been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease? Alzheimer’s is a brain disease that affects memory, thinking and behavior. It’s the most common cause of dementia, which is a word used to describe memory loss and other thinking problems that affect daily life. (Source: Alzheimer’s Association)

“The symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease are different from person to person and get worse over time,” said Dr. Brandon Lenox, chief medical officer of K2 Medical Research. “The most common symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease include memory loss, trouble finding words or speaking, difficulty learning new things or solving problems and changes in mood or personality.”

Alzheimer’s disease affects approximately seven million people in the U.S. Black Americans aged 65 or older are nearly twice as likely to have Alzheimer’s disease compared to white Americans the same age. Additionally, Alzheimer’s disease is more common among women than men, and women make up approximately two-thirds of people living with Alzheimer’s disease in the U.S. (Sources: Alzheimer’s Association & Alzheimer’s Dement.)

“It’s important for individuals and their families to feel empowered to play an active role in their health journey,” said Dr. Lenox. “Through culturally sensitive and effective community engagement, we can help ensure that people have an opportunity to consider clinical trials and determine with their health care provider whether participation may be right for them.”

There is a clinical trial underway that is evaluating an investigational drug for adults living with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease dementia. Researchers are evaluating whether the investigational drug is safe and may work well compared to placebo, when people take it with their current Alzheimer’s disease dementia medicine.

Researchers are looking for people who may be able to join the MK-1167-008 (NCT06721156) clinical trial. To qualify for this clinical trial, participants must be 55 to 90 years old and:

• Have mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease dementia;
• Be taking a type of medicine for Alzheimer’s disease dementia called a cholinergic medicine, such as donepezil, galantamine or rivastigmine;
• Have a trial partner/caregiver who can attend all trial visits;
• Meet additional criteria for the trial that will be assessed by the study doctor.

Participation in the clinical trial is voluntary, and people are free to leave at any time. Participant privacy will be maintained throughout the trial.

If someone qualifies for the clinical trial, they will receive the investigational drug or placebo (a placebo looks like the investigational drug but has no active ingredients) and study-related medical exams at no cost. Please note that participants may or may not directly benefit from study participation. The study doctor can answer any questions and discuss the possible risks and benefits of participation.

Merck is committed to researching and developing investigational medicines to see whether they may help treat, slow progression or prevent central nervous system disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease.
For more information, visit https://www.merckclinicaltrials.com/alzheimersclinicaltrial.