The dog days are here, and with them summer storms and summer stresses.
Many of us are still reeling from Hurricane Ida and watch the weather religiously for any signs of storms reaching the Gulf. If you are a storm-watcher, like I am, you are not alone.
While I was lucky to not have been impacted by damage to my home, those sweltering post-storm, pre-return of power days were brutal. From long lines at the grocery stores trying to get ice and provisions to scanning the crank radio for information on who had electricity and available resources, the days and nights stretched out forever. On the second day after the storm, thinking I would get out for a walk, I tripped on some branches and bloodied both knees and my elbow. This was perhaps one of my lowest points. Sitting on the curb just trying to catch my breath and wondering if I had enough ice for my injuries or if I should save it for my meager provisions. Again, I was lucky. I was OK, the wounds would heal and three days later, power was restored. I know many were not nearly as fortunate.
We have stories from neighbors across the city who are also dealing with anxiety and the stress of trying to make a plan, hopefully just in case. Plus we have advice from the pros on how to navigate weather preparation without losing your mind. Protip, don’t try to walk through storm debris.
It’s all about baby steps, as you will read in this issue.
August is also our annual Top Doctors issue in which we highlight some of the best physicians in the area practicing at the top of their fields. Our cover subject, Dr. Denrick Cooper, is one exceptional example. Dr. Cooper is an ER specialist who is making a difference both at home in New Orleans and beyond, living up to his middle name, Kimath, which, he explained, “is the Kenyan word for ‘earnest provider.’” Earnest provider, indeed. Dr. Cooper’s message inspires us to become changemakers and voice the need for health equity for all. We hope it will inspire you as well.
August is a challenging month in New Orleans. For many it brings all of the stresses of back to school. Vacations are over and it’s back to business. It’s hot as hell, with seemingly no end in sight. And it’s peak hurricane season. But instead of looking at it with dread, it can also be a great time to take care, slow down and focus on moving past these dog days of summer.
Ashley McLellan, Editor
