Dickerson Oxton - February 2021

Dickerson Oxton - February 2021

816-268-1960 | 913-428-8220 www.dickersonoxton.com

FEB 2021

ANIMAL BITES

CAR ACCIDENTS

MEDICAL MALPRACTICE

4 Acts of Kindness Bring Some Positivity Into Others’ Lives We all need a little more positivity in our lives. As a lawyer, it’s easy for me to get caught up fighting with opposing counsel or insurance adjusters on cases, but taking moments to reconnect with a generous and positive state of mind are important. For me in my free time, I take yoga and love being immersed in the class environment there that is optimistic, kind, and gives me a strong sense of community. Giving small compliments and doing small things for others becomes much easier when this is the mindset you’re coming from.

BICYCLE/ MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENTS

“everyone can participate in Random Acts of Kindness Day simply by showing some kindness to someone they interact with during their day.”

Someone who takes the time to say hello or even just asks how they’re doing — it can make a big difference. When interacting with people, we never know what someone else is going through, which is why I believe being kind to others is so important. WRITE A POSITIVE REVIEW Unfortunately, most of the time people want to leave a review when they are displeased with a service or a product. Yet, for this holiday — and all the days after — leave a positive review on something you really enjoyed. No matter if it was for the person who dropped off your DoorDash delivery, an online purchase from Amazon, or one of your favorite local businesses, that review can go miles. DONATE TO A CHARITY OR LOCAL ORGANIZATION Donations are often made to support an organization that is important to the person donating. However, it doesn’t always have to be money. Donating old books to a library or community center, clothes to a thrift store, or food to a local food bank is also very beneficial. These acts of kindness not only help support people but can also entertain and thrill them. I believe everyone can participate in Random Acts of Kindness Day simply by showing some kindness to someone they interact with during their day. Let’s continue sharing acts of kindness throughout our daily life and bring a smile to someone’s face.

BRAIN & SPINAL CORD INJURIES

BURN INJURIES

With Random Acts of Kindness Day taking place on Feb. 17, I feel this is very important to touch on. This holiday is meant to both highlight and celebrate the acts of kindness we show one another and what impact those acts have. I think, often, people believe that to do an act of kindness, they’re forced to go out of their way. However, a random act of kindness can be as simple and easy as saying hello to someone. These acts of kindness can easily be put into a daily routine. To help spread even more kindness this month, I want to include a few ways we can all celebrate Random Acts of Kindness Day through some daily acts I have worked to incorporate into my own daily life. TRY SENDING A TEXT We all know someone who has gone through difficult times, whether that’s losing a family member, going through high- stress situations, or feeling down. At one point during the day, it can be a good practice to send them a simple text letting them know you’re there for them. Asking them how their day was or simply telling them you’re thinking of them can really help. SAY HELLO TO SOMEONE In most businesses, many individuals may go about their day unheard or unseen. From the security team to the parking booth ticket taker, these hardworking individuals may go their whole day without speaking to anyone.

CONSTRUCTION INJURIES

NURSING HOME ABUSE

SLIP & FALL ACCIDENTS

BOATING ACCIDENTS

TRUCK ACCIDENTS

–Chelsea Dickerson

PHARMACEUTICAL & DRUG INJURIES

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MacKenzie the Chihuahua Is One Big Hero The American Humane Hero Dog Awards competition is an annual celebration that honors some of the world’s most extraordinary canines. The awards recognize dogs that have gone above and beyond the call of duty, whether it’s saving lives on the battlefield, comforting the ill or elderly, or demonstrating just how powerful the bond between humans and animals can be. Winners are crowned in several categories, but the “American Hero Dog” is the top winner selected by expert panelists and a popular vote. It most often goes to dogs who show astute bravery in what they do, and in 2020, that bravery came in a 4-pound package. Heroes Come in All Sizes

The Dutch Reach We’re still in the throes of winter, but not for long. The first day of spring is fast approaching, and many people are waiting eagerly for warmer weather. As we experience warmer weather, however, more and more people will spend their time outside, which means drivers will have to be alert to pedestrians and cyclists. In a bustling city like Kansas City, bicycle accidents happen often, and while most of these accidents are bicycle-vehicle collisions, some are caused by dooring. Dooring is a serious type of bicycle accident in which the cyclist collides with a car door after a driver or passenger unexpectedly opens it into the road or bicycle lane. INJURIES CAUSED BY DOORING Dooring can cause serious bicyclist injuries, not only from colliding with the door, but also if it forces them to unexpectedly enter the road. An oncoming vehicle could strike or run over the bicyclist, causing catastrophic or fatal personal injuries. If the bicyclist does crash into the door, they can suffer the following injuries: Increase Safety for Bicyclists

MacKenzie the Chihuahua bested over 400 competitors to be selected as 2020’s American Hero Dog. Born seven years ago with

a cleft palate and severe pneumonia that nearly took her life, MacKenzie fought hard to overcome her sickness and birth defects. Soon after she defied all odds, her owners noticed her affinity for other animals — despite being tiny compared to many of them. That’s when

• Head trauma and skull fractures • Traumatic brain injuries • Concussions

they gave her a special job: caring for baby animals born with birth defects just like she was. Many of the rescue animals MacKenzie helps care for have medical problems that prohibit them from staying with their mothers,

Our nation’s elderly are some of its most vulnerable citizens. As we age, we become more likely to suffer negative consequences from regular illnesses and suffer injuries from minor accidents. Additionally, the elderly are more likely to become dehydrated, which can lead to life-threatening conditions. When we become dehydrated, it becomes harder for our bodies to regulate our body temperature, effectively eliminate wastes, and maintain our blood pressure. Over time, dehydration can lead to mental confusion, urinary tract infections, pneumonia, weakness, and bedsores. For the elderly, these illnesses can become much worse, PROTECT YOUR LOVED ONES’ HEALTH Know the Signs of Elderly Dehydration

but MacKenzie takes a genuine interest in each baby from the moment they’re introduced, no matter its species or size. She plays, nurses, cleans, and comforts them through their recovery, becoming a pseudo-

mother that teaches them how to socialize and play. She’s nurtured countless puppies, kittens, birds, squirrels, mice, goats, and turkeys. Despite her tiny size, she’s even mothered a Great Dane. In addition to caring for rescued animals, MacKenzie also helps kids learn to be open-minded about both animals and people with physical differences or disabilities. The Chihuahua teaches the kids kindness and patience and shows them that no matter how small you might be, you can make a big difference. MacKenzie lost her ability to bark very early in life, but she has one of the loudest voices when it comes to speaking for disadvantaged animals. Heroism truly comes in all shapes, sizes, and forms, but MacKenzie demonstrates that the most heroic act of all is exuding compassion for others, no matter their circumstances.

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TAKE A BREAK

• Contusions • Bumps, bruises, and cuts • Broken bones • Muscle injuries • Road rash THE DUTCH REACH

By using a maneuver called the Dutch Reach, drivers can avoid dooring accidents with passing bicyclists. The Dutch Reach, also called the far hand method, has two main aspects: the reach and the swivel. In this method, drivers and passengers use the far hand to open a vehicle’s door handle, which forces the person to swivel or face the window to open the door. When the occupant swivels, it allows them to look outside the car, check their mirrors, and look behind the vehicle. If a biker is coming, the driver should wait to open the car door. If the way is clear, the driver should proceed to open the door slowly. Using the Dutch Reach increases safety for both bicyclists and drivers alike. Spread the word on how to use the Dutch Reach and increase safety even before cyclists hit the streets again.

Zucchini Noodles With Turkey Bolognese

If you love spaghetti, you’ll love these zucchini noodles!

which is why it’s important to know the signs of elderly dehydration. Signs of dehydration include:

INGREDIENTS

• Difficulty walking • Mental confusion • Complaints of dizziness or headaches • Low blood pressure • Decreased urine output • Complaints of constipation • Dry mouth • Inability to produce tears and/or sweat • Sunken eyes • Complaints of a racing heartbeat

• 3 tbsp olive oil, divided • 1 tbsp garlic, minced • 1/2 cup onions, diced small

• 2 tbsp tomato paste • 1 tsp salt • 1/2 tsp pepper • 2 tsp sugar • 3 medium zucchini • Parmesan cheese, for garnish 5. Using a spiralizer, mandolin, or vegetable peeler, cut the zucchini into noodles. 6. In another large sauté pan over medium-low heat, add remaining olive oil and zucchini noodles, tossing constantly for 2 minutes until slightly wilted. 7. Plate the zucchini noodles, top with the turkey

• 1 lb ground turkey • 1 28-oz can crushed tomatoes

DIRECTIONS

1. In a large sauté pan over medium-low heat, warm 2 tbsp olive oil. 2. Add garlic and onions and stir constantly until garlic is golden and onions are translucent. 3. Increase heat to medium and add ground turkey, break apart, and cook thoroughly.

Fortunately, there are several ways to ensure your loved ones are staying hydrated. If they live alone or with another family member, make sure they are drinking enough water and watery foods each day. Soups and broths as well as fruits and vegetables are all good foods to eat that contain plenty of water. If your loved one is staying in a nursing home, make sure to keep the lines of communication completely open with the staff. Ask how they ensure proper hydration and keep an eye out for any signs of dehydration when you visit. If you suspect negligence, speak with a nursing home abuse lawyer to learn more about potentially taking legal action.

4. Add crushed tomatoes,

tomato paste, salt, pepper, and sugar. Reduce heat to low. Stir occasionally.

Bolognese, and garnish with Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.

Knowing the signs of dehydration gives you the ability to react quickly to keep your loved ones safe.

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INSIDE

THIS ISSUE

Daily Acts of Kindness

PG1

A Tiny Dog Is Crowned the Biggest Hero

PG2

Using the Dutch Reach

PG2

Know the Signs of Elderly Dehydration

PG3

Take a Break

PG3

Zucchini Noodles With Turkey Bolognese

PG3

A Month of Love and Support

PG4

Share the Love This Month 4WAYS TO SUPPORT YOUR LOVED ONES THIS VALENTINE’S DAY

AMORNING MESSAGE BOARD

Every Valentine’s Day, people want to find the best ways to show their partner or even a close friend how much they care. It is easy to get sucked into thinking you have to give them the most expensive or elaborate present you can find, but sometimes, the most meaningful gifts are the simplest. Here are four easy ways to show your loved ones how much you care this February. A TEXT A DAY

Leave a journal where you both have access to it and write positive messages inside for the other person. This acknowledgment of hard work is exactly what you both need to continue pursuing your goals this year. RANDOM GIFTS

Whiteboards are fun to draw on and make great calendars, but they can also be used to share heartfelt messages with your roommates or spouse. Writing positive messages like, “I hope you have a wonderful day!” or “You matter!” can make all the difference. Waking up to a loving note from someone they care about could mean the world to them and shift their entire mood for the day. A DAILY JOURNAL ENTRY

You don’t have to wait for a birthday,

Christmas, or Valentine’s Day to give your loved one a gift.

Buying small gifts lets your friend or spouse know you’ve been thinking about

Knowing someone has your back throughout the year, no matter how

difficult things can get, is a great source of support and love. In addition to the usual communication you share with your loved one, add in a supportive text each day, whether it’s simply letting them know you’re thinking of them or wishing them luck on a presentation or interview. The best part about these texts is that they can be sent year-round.

February and March are usually when New Year’s

them. Whether it’s a treat they enjoy, a book, or even a small gift card, these thoughtful

resolutions begin to falter. To encourage yourself and your loved one, consider starting a daily journal.

gestures are sure to make them smile.

ADVERTISING MATERIAL: The choice of a lawyer is an important decision and should not be based solely on advertisements. This newsletter is provided to former clients, individuals who have contacted the firm regarding representation, and individuals who have requested to be on the newsletter mailing list. This newsletter is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or direct solicitation for employment of the firm on any particular legal matter.

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