JOURNAL

Harnessing the Power Within a Lesson From Marcus Aurelius
Dr. Donald G. Billings Dr. Donald G. Billings

Harnessing the Power Within a Lesson From Marcus Aurelius

Marcus Aurelius, a Roman emperor and philosopher, gifted the world with a wealth of wisdom. Among his many quotes is this powerful reminder: "If you are distressed by anything external, the pain is not due to the thing itself, but to your estimate of it; and this you have the power to revoke at any moment." This profound insight offers a fresh perspective on dealing with adversity and stress, inviting us to reclaim our personal power.

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Preventing the Next Pandemic - Author Peter Hotez Book Review
Dr. Brenda Rivera - Billings Dr.P.H., MPH, M.Sc. Dr. Brenda Rivera - Billings Dr.P.H., MPH, M.Sc.

Preventing the Next Pandemic - Author Peter Hotez Book Review

Peter Hotez provides an excellent analysis of global health security and how it affects not only the United States but the entire world in "Preventing the Next Pandemic." He discusses the rapid international spread of pandemics and the necessity of a coordinated global response. The book also discusses several other pandemic preparedness-related subjects, including the necessity of strong leadership, the significance of funding public health infrastructure, the function of research and technology, and the effects of anti-science groups.

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Hello Dry January - A Sobriety Challenge
Health & Homeostasis Dr. Brenda Rivera - Billings Dr.P.H., MPH, M.Sc. Health & Homeostasis Dr. Brenda Rivera - Billings Dr.P.H., MPH, M.Sc.

Hello Dry January - A Sobriety Challenge

Recent studies have indicated that taking part in a month-long sobriety challenge, like Dry January, may have advantages that last longer than the actual month. Numerous advantages for one's physical and mental well-being, as well as cost savings, can be derived from the challenge.

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A wonderful New Year’s tradition: Dropping Hopes and Dreams in Time Square
Health & Homeostasis Dr. Brenda Rivera - Billings Dr.P.H., MPH, M.Sc. Health & Homeostasis Dr. Brenda Rivera - Billings Dr.P.H., MPH, M.Sc.

A wonderful New Year’s tradition: Dropping Hopes and Dreams in Time Square

A lot of people all over the world look forward to spending New Year's Eve at Times Square. A large crystal ball is dropped from the top of One Times Square at the stroke of midnight every year to mark the beginning of the New Year and the passing of the Old. Along with the dropping of the ball at midnight, the confetti shower that follows has become an indelible part of New Year's Eve celebrations in Times Square.

 

As the confetti falls from the sky, it is easy to wonder what it represents. Does it carry with it the hopes and dreams of the people below? Is it a symbol of the fresh start that the new year brings? Or is it simply a playful and celebratory gesture?

 

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Doctor of Public Health
Dr. Brenda Rivera - Billings Dr.P.H., MPH, M.Sc. Dr. Brenda Rivera - Billings Dr.P.H., MPH, M.Sc.

Doctor of Public Health

 

Dear Colleagues and Friends,

 

I am pleased to announce that I have completed my Doctor of Public Health degree with distinction. My graduation from Walden’s College of Health Sciences and Public Policy signifies the conclusion of an extraordinary journey that began many years ago. Along the journey, each of my mentors, instructors, and peers offered me invaluable support, advice, and motivation, for which I am profoundly thankful.

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Tips for Staying Healthy this Holiday Season via Kaiser Permanente
Health & Homeostasis Dr. Brenda Rivera - Billings Dr.P.H., MPH, M.Sc. Health & Homeostasis Dr. Brenda Rivera - Billings Dr.P.H., MPH, M.Sc.

Tips for Staying Healthy this Holiday Season via Kaiser Permanente

There are plenty of things to be stressed about but staying healthy this holiday season shouldn’t be one of them.

There are many ways to protect yourself and your family during celebrations and gatherings. According to Kaiser Permanente, there are three tips for safely celebrating this holiday season:

1. GET THE UPDATED COVID-19 BOOSTER AND FLU SHOT.

Both the Covid-19 booster and flu shot give greater protection during the winter months.

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Saying Goodbye to Dadio
Dr. Donald G. Billings Dr. Donald G. Billings

Saying Goodbye to Dadio

The Celebration of our father's life, memories, and legacy.

None of us can genuinely prepare ourselves for the loss of a parent, and we are no exception. Losing our father is one of the most challenging hardships we've had to endure. However, this process has also reminded us how lucky we all were to have a father like Jim. Without his love, encouragement, and tenacity for life, none of us would be the men we are today. Every day he served as an example of how we should live our lives, and we are eternally grateful.

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Stay Safe as Extreme Heat Continues via Kaiser Permanente
Women's Health, Environmental Activism Dr. Brenda Rivera - Billings Dr.P.H., MPH, M.Sc. Women's Health, Environmental Activism Dr. Brenda Rivera - Billings Dr.P.H., MPH, M.Sc.

Stay Safe as Extreme Heat Continues via Kaiser Permanente

How to protect yourself as excessive heat continues
As extreme temperatures continue in California, we want to make sure you have the information you need to keep you and your family safe and healthy. Here are some important tips to help you stay cool.

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A Summary of San Francisco Laguna Honda Hospital and its 600 residents
Health & Homeostasis Dr. Brenda Rivera - Billings Dr.P.H., MPH, M.Sc. Health & Homeostasis Dr. Brenda Rivera - Billings Dr.P.H., MPH, M.Sc.

A Summary of San Francisco Laguna Honda Hospital and its 600 residents

If there’s one thing, we all know, it’s that taking care of our poor and indigent is the right thing to do. Laguna Honda Hospital, which operates as a skilled nursing facility, is being threatened to be shut down by federal officials due to the lack of inspections, which resulted in two nonfatal drug overdoses at the hospital.

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