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Haritos Bibas is 77 years old, but that isn't stopping the lifelong restaurateur from opening what is -- by his estimation -- probably the 30th restaurant he's owned and operated throughout his lifetime.
Bibas is a familiar name to nearly any Houstonian, especially lifetime residents. Haritos Bibas's first foray into the Houston dining scene came in 1978, when he purchased West Gray diner One's A Meal on a whim during a trip from his home base -- New York City -- to check out our residential real estate market. He kept the name and ran the diner as a neighborhood institution, which he called Bibas' One's A Meal, until he sold it a decade ago. The restaurant moved to its current Westheimer location a few years ago, where it's currently under the stewardship of John Katsimikis, a fellow Greek.
Much like the original One's A Meal, which was located at 2019 West Gray and then moved to 607 West Gray before it was sold, the Bibas restaurants on Memorial have also moved around over time. It was at the current incarnation -- the strikingly angular and aggressively shiny Bibas Greek Pizza -- that I shared one of his famous spinach pizzas with Haritos Bibas, and he told me all about his plans to reopen the Bibas on West Gray, sans the One's A Meal name (it was sold, but the house and land were not), in a month.
But why now? Why at 77 years old? It's simple, Bibas says in his rich Greek accent:
"You have to have something to look forward to, something to look higher."
After One's A Meal left the West Gray location, Bibas looked to fix up the old house that was left behind. To reclaim its lost glory while at the same time creating something entirely new.
"Most restaurants, when they close and the creator is gone, the children cash in and that is it. Because they do not own the real estate," he points out. "But I was smart -- or lucky -- enough to own the real estate, so I said, 'You know what? I'm gonna put my last effort there and make something spectactular.' And I think I outdid myself."
Bibas has great ambition for the new restaurant, which will be called Bibas Diner. So much, in fact, that he claims to have spent more than a million dollars renovating the space and creating an entirely new concept, one that he hopes will compete with not only restaurants in Houston, but restaurants like the ones opening up in the Big Apple. It's a market he knows well, having run restaurants ranging from donut shops to a now-closed diner in Times Square.
"All of a sudden, Manhattan has the best Greek restaurants in the world!" Bibas says, throwing his hands in the air. "All of a sudden, the movie stars are going there! Beautiful! One after the other. I said, this is the chance for me to do what they do in New York. And what they are doing in New York is cooking. Really cooking. Every day, fresh cooking."
The new Bibas Diner has been spiffed up inside and out, with an emphasis on bringing more upscale touches to the classic interior. In one corner, a gleaming espresso machine that costs more than most people's homes sits atop a granite bar. And although the restaurant, like the original One's A Meal, will be open 24 hours, Bibas plans on serving much more than just diner fare.
"I decided to do it and 80 percent of my food is going to be navigated by vegetables, which is healthy, which is natural, which is tasteful -- as long as you know how to do it. The only reason people don't do this is number one, they don't have the knowledge. Number two, they not willing to pay the price."
Bibas plans to bring in a Greek cook to oversee the vast, open kitchen. It gleams with promise, black and white tiles shining next to yards of equally bright stainless steel counters and furdowns. In the middle of the restaurant sits a behemoth of a mahogany table, surrounded by short, red barstools.
"I call this the Bibas Table!" He gestures proudly to the table, which is spotlighted with a row of Tiffany lamps hung overhead. He envisions the table as being a place where people eating alone will meet one another, a place were regulars will come to pass the time over a meal and discuss the events of the day.
On the patio, Bibas has replaced all of the surfaces with the same granite that covers the inside of the restaurant, but the cheerful, multi-colored umbrellas still remain. "They make people happy!" he smiles. "And if you can find something that makes you happy, that's all that matters."
He points to the location for an outdoor grill for one corner of the patio and places where TVs will sit, broadcasting the upcoming Eurovision 2010 contest. All around the perimeter, brightly painted planters are filled with herbs and tomatoes -- the same herbs that Bibas plans to use in the restaurants' dishes.
Upstairs, the plans are a bit looser, but Bibas indicates that he'd like to have Greek music and possibly a nightclub feel. Back downstairs, plans are much more concrete: The main two-thirds of the restaurant will be classic Greek fare at affordable prices in a decidedly nicer setting than Houston is used to at, say, Niko Niko's or One's A Meal. And the remaining third -- tiled in striking black and white with cozy booths lining a wall of windows -- will remain true to form, with round-the-clock service and comfort food.
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But don't think that Bibas is stopping there.
In the house adjacent to Bibas Diner (Bibas owns all three houses across the street from Cecil's), he has even more ambitious plans for the future: a grocery store to rival Phoenicia. Will that be open in a month, too?
"No," he laughs. But you can see by the determined twinkle in his eye that if he wanted to open a grocery store in a month -- along with a reincarnated restaurant -- there's nothing anyone could do to stop him.
For more photos from the restaurant, check out our slideshow.


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Photo by Romulo Yanes
The spice rub for this steak evokes the complex flavor of a rich Mexican mole sauce, but with almost no investment of time. It's great for a weeknight dinner party.
- Yield
- Makes 4 servings
- Active Time
- 10 min
- Total Time
- 15 min
- 1 tablespoon ancho chile powder
- 2 teaspoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 (1-to 1 1/4-pounds) piece of flank steak
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 8 (7-to 8-inch) flour tortillas
- 3 cups packaged coleslaw mix (7 ounces)
- Accompaniments: sliced pickled jalapeños; sour cream; lime wedges
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Stir together ancho powder, cocoa, and cinnamon.
- Pat steak dry and season with 3/4 teaspoon salt, then coat with spice mixture. Heat oil in a 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers, then cook steak, turning once, 8 to 9 minutes for medium-rare.
- While steak cooks, wrap tortillas in foil and warm in oven.
- Let steak rest 5 minutes on a cutting board, then thinly slice across the grain at an angle.
- Serve steak with warm tortillas and coleslaw mix.


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1 Comment
November 15, 2016 11:08 AM
The headline suggests a lot more than is in this story. Sounds like most of the hotelier comments are pretty neutral....business as usual.
Presidential elections create a great deal of economic uncertainty, and that's been particularly true in 2016. Now that it's over, hoteliers share what they think this election will mean.
REPORT FROM THE U.S.—One week after the U.S. presidential election, Americans and people around the world are imagining what might result from an administration headed by President-elect Donald Trump.
This year's election created a great deal of uncertainty in the hotel industry, for both hotel companies and guests unsure about how the U.S. economy would progress. International companies were watching as well to see how the next presidency might affect travel and global relationships. Arne Sorenson, president and CEO of Marriott International, wrote an open letter to Trump, expressing sentiments that no doubt others in the industry share.
Hotel News Now asked hoteliers in the U.S. hotel industry to share their thoughts on the impact this particular administration change might have on their business moving forward. Here's what they had to say, and feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section below.
Has any degree of uncertainty ended for your company or for your corporate guests, now that we have a winner?
Raymond Martz, EVP and CFO at Pebblebrook Hotel Trust: "We've seen corporate demand weaken throughout the year and across the country. It's hard to know how much of this was attributable to the uncertainty surrounding the election, versus overall weakness in global growth and the decline in business investment. However, we think this has been a minor factor.
"With the Trump victory, which clearly was a surprise to the capital markets, uncertainty has increased. Unlike Hillary Clinton, who provided very detailed plans on her economic, tax and domestic policies, there is very limited detail from Trump on these areas. So other than infrastructure spending, it's uncertain what the Trump administration has in store for the business community, including the hotel industry. So in this regard, uncertainty likely has increased versus if Hillary Clinton won the election."
Doug Dreher, president and CEO of The Hotel Group: "It's been a grueling election process and the most divisive in modern times. Now that the election has ended, there is probably some overall relief due to election fatigue. On a business front, there have been a number of regulatory and burdensome mandates affecting our industry of which we are optimistic the tide will be turned. Small business can be a catalyst for employment growth, and our industry is one of huge opportunities. As such, we see some solid growth opportunities under a new administration and proverbial fresh set of eyes going forward."
Bashar Wali, principal and president at Provenance Hotels: "Uncertainty is starting to ebb, even if that's only because we have certainty about who will be president in 70 days. Honestly, until a president takes office and begins to influence policy, the effect their administration will have on the overall business climate and on the travel sector specifically is naturally going to be somewhat uncertain. Beyond uncertainty, this year is unique. Whether you are happy or not with (last) Tuesday's outcome, the election cycle has been traumatic and divisive. It will be a process but, with enough time to heal and recover, our country will return to steady ground."
Joseph Bojanowski, president of PM Hotel Group: "Anything around labor-related pressures on our industry, specifically for us on our hotels, we have a lot more certainty around that, specifically with the overtime exemption rule that goes into effect 1 December. We feel there's a stronger possibility of delay on that. … Even if the delay doesn't happen, it's highly unlikely after 20 January the approach to that wage increase for the overtime exemption rule won't be more reasonable."
How do you believe the president-elect's positions will affect the U.S. hotel industry during the next four years?
Martz: "Trump wants to reduce taxes and regulations, which (is a) positive for businesses, including the hotel industry, so this should help growth. ... On immigration, it's uncertain. Making it harder for people to travel to the U.S. is not a positive for the hotel industry, or our economy in general, which we saw firsthand after 9/11. So if Trump takes a tough stance on all types of inbound travel, that's not good. But we'll see if the rhetoric during the campaign is followed through with stricter immigration policies. Most hoteliers agree that immigrants to the U.S. serve an important part of the hotel industry's workforce, so we'll have to see what approach Trump takes in this area."
Dreher: "Well, the president-elect is in fact a hotelier and a successful business person, so notwithstanding one's political beliefs, we are sanguine about a net-positive effect during the next four or even eight years. It has been a rare occasion having such an outsider in the Oval Office and one without any government or military experience, so it will be interesting to see how it all comes together."
Wali: "Like everything about the president-elect's campaign and overall approach to politics, it is difficult to predict. On the positive side, he is in our business. So, at the very least, we can hope decisions made by the incoming administration will have the context of the industry in mind. I could see him bringing this to bear on various issues that might benefit the industry—from the regulation of home sharing services to the influence of labor unions to business regulations at large. On the other hand, one has to question what the implications of his stated social policies—be it healthcare or immigration—might be for our employees. And, of course, the real variable is how international tourism may be affected, not just by the rhetoric but by policies that could influence ease of access through visa regulations or restrictions."
Bojanowski: "Specific to demand, there's a real question as to international reaction to this election and the effect Donald Trump has on people's desire to travel to the U.S. Whether that's a slow down or an actual decline … we don't know yet. We feel there's going to be a negative reaction and that there could be a slowdown or decline in foreign travel to the U.S. This is a place where a lot of people want to come to, but it might (become) a place people don't want to come to. There's tremendous negative reaction around the world."
Will your company adjust its operations in any way as a result of this election? If so, how?
Martz: "(It) doesn't change our investment strategy or approach to the business. We run our business with a long-term perspective."
Dreher: "Not at all. It is business as usual for THG, and (we're) optimistic about the future of both our industry and our great nation in general."
Wali: "At this time, we don't anticipate changing our approach to business. We treat our customers, employees, partners and the members of our community fairly and with respect. That's not going to change. And, to be honest, the country is not defined by the president, nor does a president single-handedly determine our fate. The overall economy has already proven it is resilient, and initial dips in the markets seem to be righting themselves. That, to me, is more meaningful than speculating on what may be to come.
Bojanowski: "We will not adjust our operations until we have a better understanding of what the impact is going to be. On (the day after the election), we had a meeting with our revenue team. We do have a daily report being produced now on key markets like New York City, Washington, D.C., San Francisco and Los Angeles—the kind of markets that are gateway cities. We're watching very, very closely the cancelations occurring in hotels, the origins of those reservations. We're also tightly monitoring the origins of reservations made in our hotels outside the country and the pace of those reservations. … There's nothing alarming yet. We've seen some, but not at a level that's alarming. The sample size is not statistically valid at this point in time."
Additional thoughts on the results of the election:
Martz: "It looks like Alec Baldwin will now be a permanent cast member on (Saturday Night Live), so we have that to look forward to."
Dreher: "In our humble opinion, no matter who we all voted for, it is time to put aside polarization on both sides and come together as a country. The president-elect has the bully pulpit and hopefully will set a refreshed optimistic tone. The president has expressed a positive transition of power the past couple of days and taken the high road, which says a lot about his character—that being country above party. In the end, we all have to remember how grateful and blessed we are to live in the best country in the world. We aren't all perfect, yet our diversity, values, and strong democracy is unmatched in the world."
Bojanowski: "Being based in Washington, D.C., and having a number of hotels in the area, a change in administration is a really good thing for demand in D.C. Inauguration is a good thing for demand. With the 'drain the swamp' approach from Donald Trump, we expect significantly higher levels of activity and demand for hotels around this election, in particular because the claims of essentially wiping out the status quo and everyone in it means new people coming in."
The headline suggests a lot more than is in this story. Sounds like most of the hotelier comments are pretty neutral....business as usual.


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With news that the NHL is "cautiously optimistic" that current CBA talks might lead to a World Cup in February 2021, we've decided to predict what each team's roster could look like should the tournament take place.
We adopted the NHL's format for the 2016 World Cup. Canada, the United States, Sweden, Finland, Russia, and the Czech Republic all send teams, while Team North America (players aged 23-and-under from Canada and the U.S.) and Team Europe (players from other European countries) round out the field. Teams are comprised of any combination of 20 skaters and three goalies.
In this edition, we project Team Russia's and Team Czech Republic's roster:
Znarok has been behind the Russian bench for most of the decade, leading the nation to a gold medal at both the 2014 World Championship and 2018 Olympic Games. The 56-year-old took a break from coaching in 2018-19 due to fatigue but will return in 2019-20 as head coach of the KHL's Spartak Moskva. If he's up to the task, the job will likely be his for the taking.
|Alex Ovechkin
|Evgeny Kuznetsov
|Nikita Kucherov
|Artemi Panarin
|Evgeni Malkin
|Vladimir Tarasenko
|Nikita Gusev
|Vadim Shipachyov
|Evgenii Dadonov
|Andrei Svechnikov
|Ivan Barbashev
|Alexander Radulov
|Pavel Buchnevich
Notable omissions: Ilya Kovalchuk, Pavel Datsyuk, Nikolay Goldobin, Artem Anisimov, Vladislav Namestnikov, Kirill Kaprizov
The top-six forward group is downright lethal, while the bottom six features two of the top KHL scorers and a blend of talented NHLers. The Ovechkin-Kuznetsov pairing offers established chemistry with last season's Hart Trophy winner completing the deadly top trio. Barbashev, who led the Stanley Cup champion St. Louis Blues in postseason hits, adds a level of physicality the Russians typically lack.
Kovalchuk and Datsyuk are national legends and it wouldn't be a surprise if the Russians showed allegiance to the veteran talents and incorporated them on the roster. If they want to maximize their chance at a championship, however, they're best to fill those spots with younger, faster players.
|Ivan Provorov
|Nikita Zaitsev
|Nikita Zadorov
|Mikhail Sergachev
|Dmitry Orlov
|Alexey Marchenko
|Alexei Emelin
Notable omissions: Dmitry Kulikov, Vladislav Gavrikov, Igor Ozhiganov, Dmitri Samorukov
The Russians are somewhat vulnerable on the back end. They don't have a deep pool of talent to select from, especially on the right side, which explains Marchenko's appearance on the forecasted roster. Provorov and Sergachev are easily the top talents, but it may actually be best to separate the pair for depth purposes.
|Andrei Vasilevskiy
|Sergei Bobrovsky
|Ilya Sorokin
Notable omissions: Semyon Varlamov, Ilya Samsonov, Igor Shestyorkin
There's little doubt Vasilevskiy and Bobrovsky offer Russia the best one-two punch between the pipes, with Vasilevskiy getting the starting nod. Sorokin is one of the top goaltenders in the KHL and would give the Russians a tremendous insurance policy if need be.
Samsonov is likely the goalie of the future but will need more experience before entering the big stage. If the tournament was a year or two later, he'd have a great shot at cracking the roster.
Head coach: Filip Pesan
Pesan has moved up the ranks within the national program, most recently leading the Czechs to a fourth-place finish at the 2018 World Junior Championship. With current Czech coach Milos Riha's contract expiring after this season, it's believed Pesan will take the reigns in 2020-21.
|Jakub Voracek
|David Krejci
|David Pastrnak
|Jakub Vrana
|Tomas Hertl
|Michael Frolik
|Ondrej Palat
|Radek Faksa
|Filip Zadina
|Pavel Zacha
|Filip Chytil
|Ondrej Kase
|Martin Necas
Notable omissions: Martin Hanzal, Dominik Simon, Vladimir Sobotka, Jan Kovar, David Kampf
The Czechs project to assemble a competitive squad with some top talent up front. Krejci and Pastrnak are tremendous players who've played together at times with the Boston Bruins, while Voracek and Hertl are also offensive catalysts. The bottom six offers a young and promising core - with an average age of 22.6 - who'll get another year-and-a-half of pro experience before the tournament arrives.
Zadina, though still inexperienced at the NHL level, packs an elite scoring punch the Czechs lack deeper down the lineup. Necas is a highly touted 20-year-old center and enjoyed a strong season en route to capturing the Calder Cup with the AHL's Charlotte Checkers in 2018-19. Give him another 18 months or so and we feel he'll be ready to crack this squad.
|Michal Kempny
|Radko Gudas
|Radim Simek
|Filip Hronek
|Jakub Zboril
|Jan Rutta
|Libor Hajek
Notable omissions: Roman Polak, Vojtech Mozik
Similar to the Russians, the Czechs have a shortage of reliable talent on the blue line. Kempny and Gudas are established NHL defensemen, but it falls off from there. Hronek and Zboril have high potential, but they're still young and learning how to play at the top level.
|David Rittich
|Petr Mrazek
|Pavel Francouz
Rittich put together a solid season for the Calgary Flames in 2018-19 and is in a great position to start if he continues his strong play. Mrazek has been inconsistent at times in the NHL, but he's the more experienced of the two. The pair will likely battle for the starting role with 2018 Olympic goaltender Francouz nabbing the third spot.
Notable omissions: Michal Neuvirth
Others in this series:


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Deantoni Parks
Touch But Don't Look
- Drummer with FLYING LOTUS, THE MARS VOLTA and JOHN CALE
- For the first time ever on Vinyl
- Limited 180g Vinyl including Digital Download
FLYING LOTUS, JOHN CALE, THE MARS VOLTA, KUDU and OMAR RODRIGUEZ LOPEZ are only some of the big players in music that DEANTONI PARKS has yet been collaborating with. For more than 20 years now PARKS has been working with numerous major league musicians leaving a lasting impression with his characteristic, highly virtuoso but at the same time minimalist style.
After years as a drummer in numerous projects, DEANTONI PARKS is now also successfully releasing material as a solo artist. 2015 marked the release of his solo album Technoself on Stones Throw, just four years after his solo debut Touch But Don't Look had been released through Omar Rodriguez Lopez Productions. On here, the band is replaced by electronic instruments, the drums embedded in repetitive but at the same time unpredictable and varied electronic soundscapes. This is DEANTONI PARKS' solo debut: electronic music determined by masterly and highly technical live drumming. On the margin between dance floor and avant-garde, Georgia-based drummer PARKS expands the borders between musical genres and styles without losing sight of a driving dance beat.
What PARKS is able to produce by himself with just a synthesizer, a sampler and a drum kit is most impressive. Even though his solo works have developed far from the sound of THE MARS VOLTA and OMAR RODRIGUEZ LOPEZ, PARKS gives an impressive presentation on this album on how masterly live drumming can be blended in with brute electronic sounds.
Touch But Don't Look is now available for the first time in Europe and for the first time ever on vinyl through eliterecords. The limited 180g vinyl comes with a digital download of the album.


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The BIO International Convention returns to San Diego after three years, bringing more than 16,000 to the San Diego Convention Center in June.
Support Times of San Diego's growth
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The event from June 19 to 22 is expected to attract many of the top business and scientific leaders in the life sciences industry. There will be 1,800 exhibitors, and former British Prime Minister David Cameron is scheduled to give a keynote address.
BIO last held its convention in San Diego in 2008 and 2014. The 2014 event drew 15,667, including nearly 2,500 company CEOs, from all 50 states and 70 countries.
"BIO is pleased to return to San Diego, one of the world's largest and most innovative centers for biotechnology development," said Jim Greenwood, BIO President and CEO. "This event provides biotech leaders with opportunities to showcase their breakthrough innovations, partner with C-level executives and network with the global biotech industry."
San Francisco was the location of last year's convention, and Greenwood said it's not surprising for the state to host two in a row because it remains the world leader in life sciences.
"Biocom welcomes BIO 2017 to San Diego, where the sun reflects on our city's astonishing breadth and depth of life science innovation and success," said Joe Panetta, President and CEO of the trade group BIOCOM.
Discounted, advance registration for the conference ends on April 10.
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| 10.8°C Belfast
What happens next after Theresa May's letter requesting a delay to Brexit?
Thursday March 21
Mrs May will travel to Brussels for a summit of the European Council, where she will make her case for a three-month extension to the two-year Article 50 negotiation process, putting Brexit back from March 29 to June 30.
The Prime Minister is expected to address leaders of the other 27 EU states before leaving them to discuss their response for about three hours in her absence. The outcome is likely to be announced by Council president Donald Tusk and European Commission president Jean-Claude Juncker in a joint press conference before Mrs May joins the other leaders for dinner.
Mr Tusk has indicated the EU27 could agree an extension in principle, subject to Mrs May getting her Withdrawal Agreement through Parliament next week. Their agreement must be unanimous.
If they do not offer an extension, the legal default is that the UK leaves on March 29 with or without a deal. Mrs May has already accepted that she no longer has time to complete the necessary legislation by that deadline, leaving her with the unenviable choice of revoking Article 50 to keep the UK in the EU or leaving without a legislated deal.Friday March 22
Mrs May will remain in Brussels to discuss issues like climate change, jobs and the 25th anniversary of the European Economic Area. This will possibly be the final participation of a British prime minister in a summit as one of the 28 EU leaders.Saturday March 23-Sunday March 24
Intensive talks are expected to continue with MPs – particularly Conservative Brexiteers and the Democratic Unionist Party – to try to shore up support for Mrs May's Withdrawal Agreement.
Saturday is expected to see large crowds attend a Put It To The People march and rally in central London demanding a second referendum.
Monday March 25
Under an amendment to the EU Withdrawal Act secured last year by Remain-backing MP Dominic Grieve, the Government must table an amendable motion in response to its second "meaningful vote" defeat last week. MPs are likely to use the opportunity to promote their own preferred options. These could range from a no-deal Brexit to a close Norway-style relationship with the EU, a longer postponement or a second referendum.
Mrs May's effective deputy David Lidington has also promised to kick-off a two-week process to seek a majority on the best way forward, which may involve indicative votes on alternative outcomes.Monday March 25-Friday March 29
Mrs May is expected to put her Withdrawal Agreement package to a third "meaningful vote" in the Commons – assuming that Speaker John Bercow accepts that her motion is fundamentally different from those defeated by 230 votes in January and 149 in March.
She is also expected to push a statutory instrument through the Commons and the Lords to remove the exit date of March 29 from Brexit legislation, in a process which Downing Street expects to take one or two days.
If the Agreement gets through at the third attempt, the European Council is likely to confirm the offer of an extension, allowing the UK to complete the process of ratifying the treaty and getting legislation in place for an orderly exit in May or June.
If the package is rejected for a third time, there will be intense pressure on the EU27 to nonetheless offer an extension to preserve the hope of a smooth Brexit.Thursday March 28
Next Thursday has been mooted as a possible date for an extraordinary European Council summit to find a last-minute solution if no agreement has been reached.Friday March 29
If no extension has been offered and no agreement approved by MPs, the UK will leave the EU without a deal at 11pm, with the potential for widespread disruption.
Leave Means Leave marchers demanding a no-deal Brexit are due to arrive in London after a two-week walk from Sunderland.March 30-June 30
If Mrs May's plan has worked, this period will see the UK pass the necessary legislation for an orderly withdrawal from the EU. If Brussels has delivered an extension but Mrs May's deal has been rejected by MPs, there will be furious debate in Westminster on the way forward.
April 11
Deadline for the UK to declare it is participating in the European Parliament elections.May 23-26
European Parliament elections. Brussels says that no further extension to Article 50 will be possible if the UK has not taken part in the vote.June 30
Under Mrs May's plans, the UK would leave the European Union and enter an 18-month transition period lasting to December 31 2020, during which it would observe EU rules but have no representation in Brussels institutions.
Intensive talks would take place in this period on the future trade and security relationship between the UK and EU, with the hope of finalising a deal before the end of 2020.


text: I'm finding it very hard to write my father's eulogy. My mind's gone blank - while at the same time it's teeming with all kinds of memories of him. How can I do him justice? As soon as I put pen to paper, the tears start and make everything run...I've written and delivered eulogies before, but this one has to be special, and I'm not managing it :-(


text: It is also used for liver cirrhosis, kidney impairment, nephrotic syndrome, in adjunct therapy for swelling of the brain or lungs where rapid diuresis is required (IV injection), and in the management of severe hypercalcemia in combination with adequate rehydration. Furosemide also can lead to gout caused by hyperuricemia. The tendency, as for all loop diuretics, to cause low serum potassium concentration (hypokalemia) has given rise to combination products, either with potassium or with the potassium-sparing diuretic amiloride (Co-amilofruse). Other electrolyte abnormalities that can result from furosemide use include hyponatremia, hypochloremia, hypomagnesemia, and hypocalcemia. Furosemide, like other loop diuretics, acts by inhibiting the luminal Na-K-Cl cotransporter in the thick ascending limb of the loop of Henle, by binding to the chloride transport channel, thus causing sodium, chloride, and potassium loss in urine. The action on the distal tubules is independent of any inhibitory effect on carbonic anhydrase or aldosterone; it also abolishes the corticomedullary osmotic gradient and blocks negative, as well as positive, free water clearance. Because of the large Na Cl absorptive capacity of the loop of Henle, diuresis is not limited by development of acidosis, as it is with the carbonic anhydrase inhibitors. Additionally, furosemide is a noncompetitive subtype-specific blocker of GABA-A receptors. Some of the brand names under which furosemide is marketed include: Aisemide, Apo-Furosemide, Beronald, Desdemin, Discoid, Diural, Diurapid, Dryptal, Durafurid, Edemid, Errolon, Eutensin, Flusapex, Frudix, Frusetic, Frusid, Fulsix, Fuluvamide, Furesis, Furix, Furo-Puren, Furon, Furosedon, Fusid.frusone, Hydro-rapid, Impugan, Katlex, Lasilix, Lasix, Lodix, Lowpston, Macasirool, Mirfat, Nicorol, Odemase, Oedemex, Profemin, Rosemide, Rusyde, Salix, Seguril, Teva-Furosemide, Trofurit, Uremide, and Urex. can you buy cipro over the counter in mexico Furosemide belongs to a group of medicines called loop diuretics (also known as water pills). Furosemide is given to help treat fluid retention (edema) and swelling that is caused by congestive heart failure, liver disease, kidney disease, or other medical conditions. It works by acting on the kidneys to increase the flow of urine. Furosemide is also used alone or together with other medicines to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). High blood pressure adds to the workload of the heart and arteries. If it continues for a long time, the heart and arteries may not function properly. This can damage the blood vessels of the brain, heart, and kidneys, resulting in a stroke, heart failure, or kidney failure. Nolvadex Cipro prescription Lasix is the brand name of furosemide, a prescription drug used to eliminate extra water and salt in people who have problems with fluid retention. where can i buy propecia in canada Furosemide is given to help treat fluid retention edema and swelling that is. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication or change some of. May 28, 2018. Find out why Lasix is used, the risks of Lasix, and what you should know before taking this medication after surgery. Furosemide oral tablet is a prescription drug that's available as the brand-name drug Lasix. Furosemide is used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure). Furosemide may be used as part of a combination therapy to treat high blood pressure. In some cases, they may not be available in every strength or form as the brand-name version. Edema can be caused by other medical conditions such as heart failure, cirrhosis of the liver, or kidney disease. This means you may need to take it with other medications. Furosemide belongs to a class of drugs called diuretics. A class of drugs is a group of medications that work in a similar way. These drugs are often used to treat similar conditions. Furosemide works by helping your body get rid of excess salt and water. Edema associated with congestive heart failure (CHF), liver cirrhosis, and renal disease, including nephrotic syndrome 20-80 mg PO once daily; may be increased by 20-40 mg q6-8hr; not to exceed 600 mg/day Alternative: 20-40 mg IV/IM once; may be increased by 20 mg q2hr; individual dose not to exceed 200 mg/dose Refractory CHF may necessitate larger doses Excessive diuresis may cause dehydration and electrolyte loss in elderly; lower initial dosages and more gradual adjustments are recommended (eg, 10 mg/day PO)Increase in blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and loss of sodium may cause confusion in elderly; monitor renal function and electrolytes Anaphylaxis Anemia Anorexia Diarrhea Dizziness Glucose intolerance Glycosuria Headache Hearing impairment Hyperuricemia Hypocalcemia Hypokalemia Hypomagnesemia Hypotension Increased patent ductus arteriosus during neonatal period Muscle cramps Nausea Photosensitivity Rash Restlessness Tinnitus Urinary frequency Urticaria Vertigo Weakness Toxic epidermal necrolysis, Stevens-Johnson Syndrome, erythema multiforme, drug rash with eosinophila and systemic symptoms, acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis, exfoliative dermatitis, bullous pemphigoid purpura, pruritus Agent is potent diuretic that, if given in excessive amounts, may lead to profound diuresis with water and electrolyte depletion Careful medical supervision is required; dosing must be adjusted to patient's needs Use caution in systemic lupus erythematosus, liver disease, renal impairment Concomitant ethacrynic acid therapy (increases risk of ototoxicity) Risks of fluid or electrolyte imbalance (including causing hyperglycemia, hyperuricemia, gout), hypotension, metabolic alkalosis, severe hyponatremia, severe hypokalemia, hepatic coma and precoma, hypovolemia (with or without hypotension) Do not commence therapy in hepatic coma and in electrolyte depletion until improvement is noted IV route twice as potent as PO Food delays absorption but not diuretic response May exacerbate lupus Possibility of skin sensitivity to sunlight Prolonged use in premature neonates may cause nephrocalcinosis Efficacy is diminished and risk of ototoxicity increased in patients with hypoproteinemia (associated with nephrotic syndrome); ototoxicity is associated with rapid injection, severe renal impairment, use of higher than recommended doses, concomitant therapy with aminoglycoside antibiotics, ethacrynic acid, or other ototoxic drugs To prevent oliguria, reversible increases in BUN and creatinine, and azotemia, monitor fluid status and renal function; discontinue therapy if azotemia and oliguria occur during treatment of severe progressive renal disease FDA-approved product labeling for many medications have included a broad contraindication in patients with a prior allregic reaction to sulfonamides; however, recent studies have suggested that crossreactivity between antibiotic sulfonamides and nonantibiotic sulfonamides is unlikely to occur In cirrhosis, electrolyte and acid/base imbalances may lead to hepatic encephalopathy; prior to initiation of therapy, correct electrolyte and acid/base imbalances, when hepatic coma is present High doses ( 80 mg) of furosemide may inhibit binding of thyroid hormones to carrier proteins and result in transient increase in free thyroid hormones, followed by overall decrease in total thyroid hormone levels In patients at high risk for radiocontrast nephropathy furosemide can lead to higher incidence of deterioration in renal function after receiving radiocontrast compared to high-risk patients who received only intravenous hydration prior to receiving radiocontrast Observe patients regularly for possible occurrence of blood dyscrasias, liver or kidney damage, or other idiosyncratic reactions Cases of tinnitus and reversible or irreversible hearing impairment and deafness reported Hearing loss in neonates has been associated with use of furosemide injection; in premature neonates with respiratory distress syndrome, diuretic treatment with furosemide in the first few weeks of life may increase risk of persistent patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), possibly through a prostaglandin-E-mediated process Excessive diuresis may cause dehydration and blood volume reduction with circulatory collapse and possibly vascular thrombosis and embolism, particularly in elderly patients Increases in blood glucose and alterations in glucose tolerance tests (with abnormalities of fasting and 2 hour postprandial sugar) have been observed, and rarely, precipitation of diabetes mellitus reported Patients with severe symptoms of urinary retention (because of bladder emptying disorders, prostatic hyperplasia, urethral narrowing), the administration of furosemide can cause acute urinary retention related to increased production and retention of urine; these patients require careful monitoring, especially during initial stages of treatment Hypokalemia may develop with furosemide, especially with brisk diuresis, inadequate oral electrolyte intake, when cirrhosis is present, or during concomitant use of corticosteroids, ACTH, licorice in large amounts, or prolonged use of laxatives Pregnancy category: C; treatment during pregnancy necessitates monitoring of fetal growth because of risk for higher fetal birth weights Lactation: Drug excreted into breast milk; use with caution; may inhibit lactation Loop diuretic; inhibits reabsorption of sodium and chloride ions at proximal and distal renal tubules and loop of Henle; by interfering with chloride-binding cotransport system, causes increases in water, calcium, magnesium, sodium, and chloride Solution: Fructose10W, invert sugar 10% in multiple electrolyte #2 Additive: Amiodarone (at high concentrations of both drugs), buprenorphine, chlorpromazine, diazepam, dobutamine, eptifibatide, erythromycin lactobionate, gentamicin(? ), isoproterenol, meperidine, metoclopramide, netilmicin, papaveretum, prochlorperazine, promethazine Syringe: Caffeine, doxapram, doxorubicin, eptifibatide, metoclopramide, milrinone, droperidol, vinblastine, vincristine Y-site: Alatrofloxacin, amiodarone (incompatible at furosemide 10 mg/m L; possibly compatible at 1 mg/m L), chlorpromazine, ciprofloxacin, cisatracurium (incompatible at cisatracurium 2 mg/m L; possibly compatible at 0.1 mg/m L), clarithromycin, diltiazem, diphenhydramine, dobutamine, dopamine, doxorubicin (incompatible at furosemide 10 mg/m L and doxorubicin 2 mg/m L; possibly compatible at furosemide 3 mg/m L and doxorubicin 0.2 mg/m L), droperidol, eptifibatide, esmolol, famotidine(? ), fenoldopam, gatifloxacin, gemcitabine, gentamicin(? ), hydralazine, idarubicin, labetalol, levofloxacin, meperidine, metoclopramide, midazolam, milrinone, morphine, netilmicin, nicardipine, ondansetron, quinidine, thiopental, vecuronium, vinblastine, vincristine, vinorelbine Not specified: Tetracycline Additive: Cimetidine, epinephrine, heparin, nitroglycerin, potassium chloride, verapamil Syringe: Heparin Y-site: Epinephrine, fentanyl, heparin, norepinephrine, nitroglycerin, potassium chloride, verapamil(? ), vitamins B and C Injection: Inject directly or into tubing of actively running IV over 1-2 minutes Administer undiluted IV injections at rate of 20-40 mg/min; not to exceed 4 mg/min for short-term intermittent infusion; in children, give 0.5 mg/kg/min, titrated to effect Use infusion solution within 24 hours The above information is provided for general informational and educational purposes only. Individual plans may vary and formulary information changes. Contact the applicable plan provider for the most current information. Lasix medication Lasix furosemide diuretic medicine information myVMC, Furosemide Oral Route Side Effects - Mayo Clinic Viagra overdose effects Does viagra cause heartburn Medscape - Hypertension-specific dosing for Lasix furosemide, frequency-based adverse. Drugs & Diseases. furosemide Rx. Brand and Other NamesLasix. Lasix furosemide dosing, indications, interactions, adverse effects. Taking Lasix Diuretic After Surgery - Verywell Health Lasix Images and Labels - GoodRx Furosemide oral tablet is a prescription drug that's available as the brand-name drug Lasix. It's also available as a generic drug. Generic drugs usually cost less. fluconazole picture Facts, opinions, and conclusions for the handicapper. In this article, we will examine a number of questions. 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Budget Revenue Estimate Structure in 2015. Source: MoF
Budget Spending Estimate Structure in 2015. Source: MoF
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My random collection of stories that are at least semi-related to engineering.
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Criminal Law
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Topic: Osteochondral Transplant Allograft Blog (Read 9281 times)
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MINIgeek (20-50 posts)
Posts: 24
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Osteochondral Transplant Allograft Blog
November 21, 2015, 06:14:43 AM »
I just had an osteochondral transplant with an allograft on my left knee a few days ago. I wanted to start a blog to detail my recovery and to share some insight. I am 25 years old and had a healthy knee prior to a sports injury where my patella was subluxated sometime in May, 2014. I had two arthroscopic procedures since then to "smooth" damaged cartilage with two different orthopedics which didn't really do much. I was then referred to a cartilage specialist who suggested the OATS procedure for a ~1.5cm defect beneath my patella. My goal is to play sports at a recreational level again...I'll try to update this blog until the very end of the rehab process
Date of Procedure: 11/18/15
Today (11/20/15) - 3 Days Post-Op:
The procedure went well and I had to stay at the hospital overnight for an observation period. Surprisingly, there was minimal pain probably due to the nerve block and all the medication I was on. I got discharged the day after with a straight leg brace locked to 0 degrees and some crutches. My next appointment is in a month, and the doctor wants me to work my way up to 40 degrees till then. I'm on pain meds at the moment and it is tolerable - the discomfort of lugging around a huge leg brace is more bothersome. Didn't do much today except bed-rest...I tried to wiggle my toes often to get the blood circulating which is all i'm capable of doing. Even simple quad sets cause some discomfort.
Last Edit: February 17, 2016, 05:49:38 AM by kneedit
MICROgeek (<20 posts)
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Re: Osteochondral Transplant Allograft Blog
Reply #1 on:
November 22, 2015, 10:11:39 AM »
Thank you for starting your blog. I just had an OATs procedure (donor) done Nov 11, and my OS doesn't have me seeing a PT until 2 weeks post op. I've been reading different rehab information and it seems many people start with CPM. I've been trying to do some ROM exercises but my knee right, it feels like I'm pulling at the skin and it burns a little. Have you done any ROM yet? If so, do you get the tightness? My incision is about 5" long and I still have the stiches and tape. Other than the tightness and some random sudden pains, the ROM seems to be getting better. I've worked my way to 35/40 degrees. However, I can't get it to zero. I wasn't given a brace, and I keep resting my leg with the knee slightly bent.
I'll be 6 week NWB. Right now, I'm not in much pain. The first 36 hours were brutal. I wasn't given a block (I had one with a microfracture in 2012) and I didn't think to ask for one before surgery. Anyway, I've been on ibprofren since day 2 and I'm not in much pain at all, except when doing quad sets. My quad is waking up more, and getting stronger each day. I, too, hope to get back to sports.
I hope you recovery fully and quickly! Oh, you mentioned researching doctors. I agree. I was lucky to find one who also happens to work on professional athletes, so I do feel confident with postop info I get. I just don't know why no CPM.
OATs (donor) RK November 2015
Micro Fracture RK May 2012
ACL graft (donor) RK June 2008
ACL repair RK May 2005
MINIgeek (20-50 posts)
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Re: Osteochondral Transplant Allograft Blog
Reply #2 on:
November 22, 2015, 06:40:54 PM »
Hi Etbs,
My doctor does not have me seeing a PT until after my first post-op visit, which is in 3 weeks (4 weeks from procedure). I was told I can do quad sets and straight leg raises until then. As far as ROM goes, my doctor said a CPM would not be necessary....he told me that I could weight bare partially without bending my leg using crutches whenever I walked. He told me I should work up to 40 degrees flexion by myself by my first visit, using the brace.
I'm gonna ease on the ROM until i get through my first week...the skin still feels very tight like you mentioned and the burning sensation is still there whenever i try to push it too far.
What made you have this procedure? Injury?
MICROgeek (<20 posts)
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Re: Osteochondral Transplant Allograft Blog
Reply #3 on:
November 22, 2015, 09:23:07 PM »
Hi. Thanks for your response. It's helpful to know the tightness is normal. I probably have been pushing the PT too far, causing the burning. I was in a ski accident and had a failed microfracture from that, so OATs was the next step. I have my first PT appointment this Wednesday. Based on a handout from my surgeon, I've been doing assisted heel slides, quad sets, leg extension with a foam roller under my foot. I can't seem to do a leg raise because my quads aren't firing yet. My OS said that can happen for a couple of weeks.
OATs (donor) RK November 2015
Micro Fracture RK May 2012
ACL graft (donor) RK June 2008
ACL repair RK May 2005
MINIgeek (20-50 posts)
Posts: 24
Liked: 0
Re: Osteochondral Transplant Allograft Blog
Reply #4 on:
November 29, 2015, 06:19:39 AM »
11/28/15 - 1.5 Weeks Post-Op
: The knee is feeling much better. I stopped taking the prescribed pain medication around 3 days after surgery and switched to ibuprofen for a day or two afterwards. The swelling has gone down significantly but still has a long way to go. I can get myself to 40 degree flexion (heel slides) very easily which is what I was suppose to be working towards for the next 2.5 weeks. I wanted to push the flexion more but was told to hold off on that until later so the allograft can heal in it's place with no stress. My leg has shrunk considerably especially at the quads/hamstrings, almost x2 as small as my other leg. I've only been prescribed quad sets, leg lifts, ankle pumps for my at home physical therapy. It took me a good week before I even attempted a leg lift because there was considerable pain at the surgical sight when I tried to do even a single rep. Today, I was able to do the 3x10 although it was a struggle.
The swelling and pain is decreasing each day. I'm limited to very basic physical therapy exercises and flexion only up to 40 degrees for a full month. Trying to keep my leg straight and immobilizing till then is testing my patience but so far so good - i'm optimistic in the future and my ability to play sports at a competitive level again.
Last Edit: November 29, 2015, 06:32:49 AM by kneedit
Regular Poster
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Re: Osteochondral Transplant Allograft Blog
Reply #5 on:
November 30, 2015, 03:20:12 PM »
Hi kneedit,
thanks for posting this.
I'm considering a similar surgery.
Could you provide more detail about the nature of your defect and your current condition. Is your allograft on the weight bearing portion of your knee? How wide and deep to the bone is the graft?
At this time of your recovery are you able to bear weight on your operated leg? Can you walk without crutches? How do you handle daily chores like bathroom, shower, going up/down stairs?
Thanks a lot.
MINIgeek (20-50 posts)
Posts: 24
Liked: 0
Re: Osteochondral Transplant Allograft Blog
Reply #6 on:
December 04, 2015, 05:27:33 AM »
Hi Razuzin,
I'm assuming the allograft was on the weight bearing portion of my knee - there was considerable pain every single step that made me change my gait. I'm 2 weeks post op and I will be using one crutch for two more weeks, which was what i was instructed. I can weight bear on my operated leg without the crutch, but VERY gently. Using the crutch sucks for the first few days but you get use to it and just make it part of your life. Next thing you know, a month will pass and you will ditch the crutches, begin PT and eventually be fully recovered. After the first 3 days following the surgery, nothing has been too difficult at all.
Last Edit: December 04, 2015, 05:37:28 AM by kneedit
Regular Poster
Posts: 96
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Re: Osteochondral Transplant Allograft Blog
Reply #7 on:
December 04, 2015, 02:10:52 PM »
Thanks for a detailed response kneedit. Wish you a speedy recovery, looks like you're doing pretty well.
I'm seeing two doctors re my condition, both are very experienced surgeon who did many surgeries of this types. It's interesting how different their recovery protocols are: one is very strict about six weeks non-WB and extensive use of CPM machine, another - just one week non-WB, no CPM, start walking and moving around ASAP afterwards.
My defect is in the trochlear groove under patella which is non-WB section, I feel it only when I bend the knee more than 30 degrees e.g. when going up and down stairs. The doctor who suggests minimum NWB takes this into consideration. So far I'm leaning towards that doctor, not surprisingly.
MINIgeek (20-50 posts)
Posts: 24
Liked: 0
Re: Osteochondral Transplant Allograft Blog
Reply #8 on:
December 20, 2015, 08:44:42 AM »
12/20/2015 - 1 Month Post-Op:
I had my 1 month post-op appointment today. The swelling has gone down significantly and there is almost no pain when the leg is at rest. I took X Rays and the graft has healed well. I got the okay to start formal physical therapy...I'm restricted to range of motion exercises and closed chain exercises. It's going to be like this for another month...if all things go according to plan, I can really start pushing it afterwards. I also got the okay to ditch the crutches which is a relief. I'm walking with a noticeable limp...but i'm walking. With an estimated recovery time being 4-6 months, I feel optimistic. I feel like it'll be another month or two with some good physical therapy before I can tell if this operation was "worth it". As of now, it's still too early in the recovery process.
Last Edit: December 20, 2015, 08:46:43 AM by kneedit
MINIgeek (20-50 posts)
Posts: 24
Liked: 0
Re: Osteochondral Transplant Allograft Blog
Reply #9 on:
January 15, 2016, 09:31:21 AM »
1/15/2016 - 2 Month Post-Op:
The swelling at this point has almost completely gone down to normal.
My leg is about 75% of the size it use to be, which is great progress. I am walking with near perfect gait but with discomfort. There still is pain underneath the kneecap, where the graft was placed. I'm a bit worried as I feel that I've hit a plateau in recovery in that things are feeling better very slowly compared to the first month of post-op. It was at this 2 month mark that I got the okay from my doctor to start open chain exercises, but I think i might delay it a couple more weeks. My doctor said I should be able to jog at the 3 month mark and ease back into sports at the 4 month mark, making a full recovery at the 6 month mark. I feel a little behind schedule, but I've read articles and other blogs that recovery can take from 8 month - 1 year. I have full range of motion and hopefully the pain will go away within the next month or so where I can really start pushing the physical therapy exercises at that point.
MINIgeek (20-50 posts)
Posts: 24
Liked: 0
Re: Osteochondral Transplant Allograft Blog
Reply #10 on:
February 17, 2016, 06:10:14 AM »
2/16/2016 - 3 Month Post-Op:
Went to the orthopedics to get another x-ray....everything seemed to check out fine and the graft has healed well, although you can still a small contrast between bone and graft. My leg seems to be getting stronger, it's almost 90% of the size of my other leg. My doctor seemed very optimistic. I've been going to physical therapy and to the gym consistently probably every other day.
I know it's only 3 months from the surgery, but I am still having pain behind the kneecap, where the graft was placed. It gets worse as i bend down to squat, or any action where there is more weight placed on the kneecap. This was the same exact pain I felt pre-operation and it has not really gotten from months 2-3 post op. My gait looks fine but I am still compensating because of this pain and have started to develop some nasty tendinitis on my other knee! I expressed my concerns to my doctor who assured me that everyone heals at a different pace and that because I got this surgery 1.5 years after my initial injury, it might take a bit longer to heal. I was initially quoted as having a 4-6 month recovery time until sports, but it seems as if it might be 6 months before I can start to walk with no pain at all. I really hope he's right...I'm starting to believe I might have some alignment/maltracking problems that hopefully won't need surgical intervention.
If anybody has had the osteochondral allograft procedure on the patella, please contact me as I have some questions on recovery, time of recovery, etc. I could really use some advice.
Last Edit: March 08, 2016, 03:43:47 AM by kneedit
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Re: Osteochondral Transplant Allograft Blog
Reply #11 on:
February 17, 2016, 08:22:23 PM »
Thanks for the update kneedit.
I'm wondering where you had the surgery and who was your surgeon.
My surgeon who I plan to do a similar surgery with, Dr. Riley Williams at HSS also doesn't use CPM, just ice machine post-op.
How big was you incision? My OS showed me an approximate size of the incision and it's around 2-3 inches.
Was anything else done during the surgery besides allograft, like cartilage smoothing, shaving?
Wish you a full recovery. Keep us posted.
MINIgeek (20-50 posts)
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Re: Osteochondral Transplant Allograft Blog
Reply #12 on:
February 18, 2016, 09:50:03 PM »
Hi Razuzin,
I didn't use CPM or ice machine post-op....my incision is 2.5 inches long. I woulnd't worry too much about these things...i managed to get full range of motion fairly quickly and the swelling is completely gone without using the CPM or ice machine. The incision stopped hurting after the first month or so.
I only had the allograft inserted...I had prior cartilage smoothing with 2 different procedures before going with the allograft.
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Re: Osteochondral Transplant Allograft Blog
Reply #13 on:
August 12, 2016, 05:40:12 AM »
8-11-16 (8.5 months post-op)
Hello everyone...it's now 8.5 months post-op and I would like to say the past 8 months have been hell.
My knee still feels the same as it was pre-surgery...2 years of dealing with 3 operations has lead to severe tendinitis due to compensating on my other knee and my Achilles, as well as just being depressed. I can't stand for too long either...my heel starts to hurt due to all the weight that my knee can't take.
My doctor is baffled that im still experiencing pain and ordered a bone scan. I talked to 2 more orthopedics who are equally as baffled. I am going to talk to one more orthopedic, but it looks like objectively, my MRI shows a 'good' knee. The pain on the other hand is not so good...I really wish there was something wrong so I could at least have another operation. At this point, the only thing left is an exploratory scope, but i'm not too confident at all that the doctors will find anything. The MRI shows good cartilage and good bone, so i'm not too sure where the pain is coming from, but it has to be coming from somewhere. The cartilage is brand new and smooth, so it can't be that...at this point, it has to be the bone right?
I'm just completely confused...i never had prior knee problems with no arthritis and am only 26 yeras old...this was a result of a sports injury so i'm just so frustrated.
I'm pretty desperate at this point...I think i've seen maybe 6 orthopedics so far, had surgery with 3 of them, and am going to see a 7th soon. Wish me luck .
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Re: Osteochondral Transplant Allograft Blog
Reply #14 on:
August 12, 2016, 06:11:19 AM »
Might I ask who you've seen and who you're seeing?
I'm so sorry to hear about all your struggles
I just had surgery #7 two weeks ago, my third with Dr. Laprade out of The Steadman Clinic here in Vail.
I had an OATs done last year which is doing amazing...although my whole knee is full of chondromalcia :/
My next step, based on Laprade's recommendation, is to do a series of BMAC injections...I'm 25 and have severe arthritis as well...and is all the result of two bad surgeries and an extremely misleading surgeon. Feel free to shoot me a message if you want.
Have you consulted with Laprade at all? If not...I can't possibly recommend him enough. I'd give anything to have seen him in the first place.
Right Knee-
MT Menisectomy, Chondroplasty, 10/16
MT Repair, Chondroplasty, Clean out+ BMAC/PRP7/16
Meniscus Transplant & OATs 8/15
Notchplasty,Osteophyte Removal,Prep for MT/OATs 7/15
loose body removal, menisectomy- 4/15
Menisctomy, loose body removal1/14
Lateral Release08
Meniscus Repar 07
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Re: Osteochondral Transplant Allograft Blog
Reply #15 on:
August 23, 2016, 07:01:44 PM »
I am going to undergo this procedure sorry to hear about your experience, Hey Mulberrysdream I am seeing Laprade at the moment, do you mind if I contact with questions? My email is
[email protected]
, thank you and kneedit best of luck with your recover, I hope you find an answer.
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Re: Osteochondral Transplant Allograft Blog
Reply #16 on:
August 24, 2016, 09:12:30 PM »
Of course! I'll shoot you an email with my info. If you're in the area and want to get together let me know
Hope i can be of help! If anyone can fix you up...It's Laprade.
I don't mean for my experience and struggles to in any way sound like i regret going through it. I am forever grateful and extremely fortunate to be able to live so close to laprade and be able to get fixed up to the best i can be (even if that's not back to 100%), and have such incredible Physical Therapy here as well.
i just should've seen him when i first got hurt out here. hindsight is always 20:20
Right Knee-
MT Menisectomy, Chondroplasty, 10/16
MT Repair, Chondroplasty, Clean out+ BMAC/PRP7/16
Meniscus Transplant & OATs 8/15
Notchplasty,Osteophyte Removal,Prep for MT/OATs 7/15
loose body removal, menisectomy- 4/15
Menisctomy, loose body removal1/14
Lateral Release08
Meniscus Repar 07
MINIgeek (20-50 posts)
Posts: 21
Liked: 2
Re: Osteochondral Transplant Allograft Blog
Reply #17 on:
March 01, 2017, 01:36:26 AM »
Hi kneedit -
I'm looking into these procedures and was wondering if you'd be able to share how your knee is doing now that its been over a year since your procedure?
Left knee Mensicus repair 2005
Left knee ACL Reconstruction 2005
Right knee ACL reconstruction 2010
Right knee ACL reconstruction 2014
Left Knee Scope debridmt (for chronic pain) 2015
PRP Injections & Bone Marrow Stem cell injections to both knees - 2016
Left knee Chronic kneecap pain 2014 - present
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Kat loves to shop in international grocery stores. She'll drive for miles just to have the opportunity to roam the aisles and enjoy the colors and aromas of different cultural cuisines. This week she went to a local Indian grocery store and spent a very long time in the tea aisle, of course! She returned home with dried lentils, spices, and a very unique line of teas.
Kat was intrigued by the colorful boxes of teas called Chai Moments from Tea India. She makes her own masala chai at home and loves the flavor, but was curious to see how this tea would compare. These are instant powdered teas, and she wasn't sure what to expect. Kat was pleasantly surprised to see there are no artificial flavors or preservatives, things that you often find in instant teas.
She brought home four different flavors of Chai Moments: Masala Chai, Cardamom, ginger, and milk tea. She invited one of her close friends Sima over for a tasting session. Her friend grew up in India and often talks fondly of having tea with her family. Her mother taught her how to make masala chai and she usually creates it from scratch.
To brew up these teas, you simply add a packet to 6-8oz hot water, and stir. The teas are made up of bold black tea, non-dairy creamer, and spices. The first tea they tried was the masala chai. This tea is spicy, sweet, and creamy. Kat said that the blend of cardamom, cinnamon, cloves and ginger took her back to being on the streets of India and sipping masala chai from the chai wallas. I completely agree! As soon as I smelled the tea I could see those chai stalls with the fast moving vendors furiously brewing and pouring tea. This instant tea is perfect for when you crave that spicy chai but don't have time or teabags available. Kat said she could see herself drinking this in the morning at the office, when she's looking for a little extra spring in her step.
Next up was the ginger tea. This one is warming and spicy. The milk tames the spice a bit, and makes it soothing with a nice lingering zing. Kat said she's going to reserve this tea for chilly afternoons on the go, when she wants to take a quick break to warm herself inside and out.
It turns out that the cardamom tea is Sima's favorite. She said this tea reminds her of spending mornings with her mother, learning how to make her family's version of chai. Theirs is heavy on the cardamom, with lots of milk and sweetener. Cardamom in tea can be quite overpowering but this blend has just the right amount. Sima decided she was going to keep a box of this tea at home, for when she wants a taste of her childhood without the time to assemble the tea from scratch.
Kat also enjoyed the milk tea, which is creamy, sweet and soothing. Kat is keeping this tea for that mid-afternoon slump when she's not looking for some extra help to wake up, but without too much spice. This tea is sweet but not too much so. It reminds Kat of being in Taiwan, where she found sweet milk tea everywhere she went. The milk, sugar, and tea are all well balanced in this blend. Each flavor can be tasted, and nothing overpowers.
These teas are perfect for travel, outdoor activities, or visiting with family and friends. They are warming, creamy, and oh so comforting! Next time you are in an international grocery store, keep your eyes peeled for new and interesting teas. You never know what you're going to find!


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Can we change the fate of our students with our optimism? I think we can.
Look what optimism did for the pig, Wilbur in the book, Charlotte's Web. Charlotte contrived a simple plan to save her best friend, Wilbur. She wrote optimistic messages in her web hoping that sending out these good vibes would help others see the wonderfulness of him. It worked. In just a few days, Wilbur went from having a terrible fate to becoming a celebrity.
"Ever since the spider had befriended him, he had done his best to live up to his reputation. When Charlotte's web said SOME PIG, Wilbur had tried hard to look like some pig. When Charlotte's web said TERRIFIC, Wilbur had tried to look terrific. And now that the web said RADIANT, he did everything possible to make himself glow." Charlotte's Web pg. 114
In my book, Self-Directed Writers I talk about the qualities that students/teachers need in order to be self-directed. One of these qualities is optimism. When we teach in an optimistic manner, our students will try to live up to to how we already see them. I spent a lot of time in September working with K-1 teachers and kids on launching the Writing Workshop. One of the most common lessons I do in these early months is moving kids from writing on one piece of paper to making books. Truthfully, it's one of the easiest and most fun lessons I do. I begin the lesson by showing kids a few books and how the writer writes his book across many pages, putting the first part of his book on the first page, second part of the book on the second page and so on. I then tell that they are going to make their own books. Towards the end of the lesson, I have them talk to a partner and decide if their book is 2 pages, 3 pages or 4 pages. Of course we have the child who says it's 400 pages and I tell him/her to start with 4 and then take more paper if he/she needs it. At times, I have the child who says 1. Usually, I'll point out that the books in their classroom are all more than one page and to take 2 pages to be on the safe side. Then, the kids happily go back and draw their pictures and/or write their words to the books.
Many teachers reflected that their biggest obstacle in this lesson was actually believing that their students could do this. Just as optimism changed Wilbur's fate, our optimism can do wonders for our students. The problem is, we won't feel optimistic all of the time. Can you become a more optimistic teacher? What can you do when you don't feel optimistic? I would love to hear you thoughts. Scroll down to the bottom and leave a comment to start a conversation or shoot me an email and let me know your thoughts.


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Turned by Nick and his father in the USA, the Birmingham Model-A Acrylic fountain pen is the flagship release of the Birmingham Pen Company. The Model-A comes stock with a gift box, ink converter, and is compatible with standard International ink cartridges as well as #6 nibs. Check out the Model-A updates...
Fully machined in-house | MADE IN USA
Filling mechanism: Ink converter (included)
Nib size: German #6
Housing spout: International standard
Weight: 13g
Length Capped: 138.2mm
Length Posted: 170.1mm
Length Uncapped: 128.7mm
Grip Diameter (Bottom): 10.4mm
Grip Diameter (Mid): 11.1mm
Barrel Diameter (Largest): 14.18mm
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Increased use of LED lighting by retailers is a great way to enhance product and brand promotions, according to a leading figure in the illuminated display industry.
A study released last month my building research organisation BRE claimed that use of LED lamps in retail stores was likely to lead to an increase in sales.
The BRE's new guide to retail lighting undertook a review of current practices said retailers can implement energy saving and attract customers with lighting displays, such as light boxes.
Adam Vanovitch, managing director of W&Co Design Solutions, a leading supplier of displays and signs to the retail industry, concurred with the BRE's findings.
"LED displays, such as light boxes, are a fantastic way to engage consumers with a brand or a product range," he said.
"Not only can LEDs have great energy-saving capabilities, they also offer massive versatility for retailers looking to add an extra diminution to in-store displays or enhance their signage and brand presence."
The BRE guide recommend that lighting should be included by retailers in-store to help more clearly define their brand identity.
The guide highlighted how in 2011 lighting used in consumed 35 per cent of all the energy consumed for lighting in the entire service sector.
In addition, the study said, lights were responsible for using 43 per cent of all the electricity used in retail with the vast majority of lights used in the retail sector being fluorescent or halogen.
The BRE's guide suggested that use of LEDs and ceramic metal halide lamps would help increase energy efficiency in stores while also providing additional accent lighting options.
"LED signs and lighting can really help increase lighting options in stores," added Vanovitch.
"Signs can be customised with unique illuminated letters, spelling out the brand name, giving it presence. Or if retailers are looking for in-store brand or promotional messages then light boxes can be used alongside other features to highlight particular ranges or individual products.
"Whether it to create a certain mood or to guide the consumer, accent features such as a wall of LED lights can be an innovative and stylish way to produce large scale illumination.
"There is also a huge range of options with light panels, they are extremely versatile and can create an arresting feature for any retail space; from a large outdoor sign to attract customers to more subtle uses in store."
Notes to Editors:
1. Launched in 1993, W&Co Design Solutions is now one of the UK's leading suppliers of high quality displays and signs to the retail industry
2. Specialising in products with LED illumination, W&Co complements its product range with a professional service team to provide graphic design, large format printing and installation.
3. Clients include British Airways, Boots, BMW, Harrods, John Lewis, IMAX Cinema and Marks & Spencer
- Contact Name:
- Adam Vanovitch
- Company:
- W&Co Design Solutions
- Contact Email:
- click to reveal e-mail
- Contact Phone:
- +44(0)8456 25 35 45
- Company Website:
- http://www.w-co.co.uk/
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I learned a valuable lesson today. I was finally entering my seedlings from my 2009 crosses into the database and onto my website. No problem there. The problem was when I was looking at the crosses I wanted to see why I picked that cross. Well I used a named cultivar with one of my seedlings. For some reason I decided to cull that seedling. Probably didn't have enough bud count but it had a pretty face. Well when I culled it I deleted it out of the database so I couldn't find anything on it. But luckily I keep a back up of my crosses so I could at least find out what the parentage was. So now I know (and hopefully remember) that when I cull a seedling to make sure it wasn't used in any crosses.
Well here it is the 26th of March and I still don't have the new (temp) bed ready yet. Since the garden was plowed in the fall it needs to be rototilled father n law just got one but it needs a longer sleeve(?). It barley hooks on the tractor and it would probably shear it if used. So wait a little bit longer. I may have to go see if i can find me some large pots to pot them all in.


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Health information that can be exchanged securely
- Every healthcare provider will have the ability to communicate with other professionals and their patients via secure digital channels if they so choose. This will end dependence on paperbased correspondence and the fax machine or post.
- From within their chosen system healthcare providers will be able to search for other healthcare providers in a single directory, and easily and securely share clinical correspondence.
- Patients will be able to communicate with their healthcare providers using these digital channels.
- Patients' health data will be safeguarded and able to be shared securely at their discretion. They will spend less time having to retell their story, and their healthcare providers will be able to work together more effectively to provide coordinated care.
The purpose of the activities under this priority area is to enable health and care providers across primary, community, secondary care, aged care, and ancillary services to easily find each other online and securely exchange clinical information.
Reliable, secure provider-to-provider communication is a key component of digitally enabled integrated and coordinated care across the Australian health sector.
Secure messaging is a foundational capability enabling interoperability and safe, seamless, secure information sharing between healthcare providers.
Healthcare providers want confidence that their electronic message will be sent securely, then received, viewed and acted upon.
The Australian Digital Health Agency's Secure Messaging Program is working collaboratively with industry, state and territory governments, suppliers of secure messaging solutions and clinical software vendors to reduce existing barriers to adoption and provide pragmatic and implementable solutions.
The benefits for Australians and the Australian healthcare system are:
- Providers will have access to more complete patient information that will improve clinical decision making.
- Consumers will have increased confidence that
- Clinicians are informed when making clinical decisions. There will be reductions in administration and processing time as well as a reduction in paper handling.
- There will be savings from reduced costs.
Roles of participants in order to achieve benefits
|Healthcare consumers
|Drive market interest by expecting their healthcare providers to be able to communicate with their care providers securely and seamlessly. Be engaged to identify where digital communications could add most value to their health and care experiences
|Healthcare providers
|Inform and validate user requirements and experience to ensure the development of a fit for purpose secure messaging infrastructure that supports local healthcare provider needs. Participate in implementation activity as senders and receivers of clinical correspondence and continue to inform their priorities and requirements for electronic clinical information.
|Industry & technology sector
|Co-design and co-develop national infrastructure ensuring adoption of technical standards, governance, data lifecycle management and operations. Co-development of profiles and specifications and partnering in implementation projects as suppliers of electronic medical record, clinical information and secure messaging solutions used by clinical care providers across the sector.
|Peak organisations
|Participate in providing clinical expertise and leadership on behalf of their members to support the development and adoption of standards and guidelines.
|Australian Digital Health Agency
|Lead the secure messaging project in collaboration with industry and the health sector which is overseen by a steering committee with wide representation including clinical leadership, ensuring the development of appropriate development standards and adoption guidelines.
|Commonwealth Government
|Review policies and legislation to support the appropriate use of national infrastructure and the provision of health provider information appropriately and securely through that infrastructure. Lead the development of national identification and authentication to provide streamlined channels for government provided services, addressing legislative and policy changes as required.
|State and territory governments
|Co-design and co-develop national infrastructure ensuring adoption of technical standards, governance, data lifecycle management and operations. In managing and funding state operated services, lead local strategies and programs which leverage and support national initiatives to enable secure messaging capability. Inform and validate technical and business requirements and ensure the availability of fit for purpose and useable infrastructure in line with jurisdictional needs.
Priority actions for co-development 2018 - 2022
2.1 Enable secure exchange of clinical information
Enable health and care providers across primary, community, secondary care, aged care, and ancillary services to easily find each other and securely exchange clinical information.
2.1.1. National provider addressing service
Establish a national provider addressing service
A key challenge to achieving a standardised approach to secure messaging is the existence of multiple health service directories and the lack of confidence in completeness and currency of data in these directories and addressing services. That is why a national provider addressing service will be established, building on the design work already undertaken. A key first step is progressing requirements and options analysis, and confirming the scope of this service co-designed with states and territories and industry stakeholders.
2.1.2. Standards based secure messaging capability
Integrating standards based secure messaging capability
In Australia, there is established use of secure messaging using a range of different electronic communication methods. These different methods are generally not compatible – meaning that these proprietary secure messaging approaches do not work with each other. There is a need to seamlessly integrate standards-based secure messaging capability using national infrastructure services, facilitating a co-design approach within primary, specialist, and allied health clinical information systems, and jurisdiction clinical and administrative systems.
2.1.3. Nationally coordinated programs
Continuing nationally coordinated adoption and implementation
The set of information in a message, and how it is displayed, is not currently standardised, hindering confidence in the reliability of secure messaging capability. Nationally coordinated programs will continue to develop and refine specifications and national reference architectures, co-produce implementation profiles with vendors and demonstrator health services, and drive national adoption and use for priority usage patterns, including discharge summary, referrals, specialist and allied health reports (e.g. including specialist to specialist and psychologist to general practitioner correspondence).
2.1.4. Improving experience by leveraging national infrastructure
Improving the consumer and clinician experience by co-producing a roadmap for leveraging national infrastructure
The digital health national infrastructure has the potential to support a number of usage patterns that benefit the healthcare experiences of consumers and clinicians. To achieve this, there needs to be a comprehensive market scan of available solutions and co-production of a roadmap outlining how national infrastructure services will be further enhanced and leveraged to support potential new usage patterns, for example:
- National protocol for transferring diagnostic images, and accessing historic images
- Electronic prescribing [see Medicines Management priority activity 4.1.2]
- Unstructured secure email
- Healthcare provider to provider record transfer
- Enabling consumer and community access to clinical information
- Providing consumers with health information and transparent information on comparative costs of treatment and service provider quality
- Online consultations supported by smart forms
- Healthcare provider-to-consumer messaging
- Healthcare provider-to-provider instant messaging
- E-requesting for diagnostics
- Enabling consumers who receive a referral to choose their health service provider and book an appointment
- Ensuring freely available, accurate and up to date health service and provider information for the public and healthcare providers by enhancing the National Health Services Directory
Make it easy for providers to participate
Streamlined registration processes and user friendly national infrastructure services
2.2.1. National Authentication and Identification
Services Enhancing authentication and identification services to support secure messaging
Throughout the consultation, healthcare providers raised the difficulty they have using existing national foundations, including registration, renewal of Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) certificates, and identifier match rates. Existing national authentication and identification services will be enhanced, and existing specifications developed to support secure messaging and future usage patterns. This will involve the co-production of an integrated digital identity framework, using the Digital Transformation Agency identity and authentication framework and services, for health and care provider individuals and organisations that can be used to access a variety of private sector and government sector digital services including clinical services, Medicare services, secure messaging services and the My Health Record system.
View the Actions Across Australia Case Study – Secure Messaging