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Immunosuppressives can help, but with serious side effects

By David Dunaief, M.D.

Dr. David Dunaief

Eczema is relatively common, affecting 20 percent of children and 10 percent of adults around the world (1). If you are one of the many who experiences eczema, you know the symptoms, which can include skin rashes, itching, pain and redness.

Eczema is a chronic inflammatory process, and it’s likely caused by a combination of genetics and environmental or lifestyle issues (2). Investigation into potential causes is a growing field.

The National Eczema Association details the seven different kinds of eczema on its website, nationaleczema.org. Atopic dermatitis is the most frequently occurring.

While there is no cure, some treatments can ease symptoms and reduce flare-ups. These range from over-the-counter creams and lotions, antihistamines for itchiness, prescription steroid creams, oral steroids, and injectable biologics. Some use phototherapy for severe cases, but there’s not a lot of research suggesting this is effective. Interestingly, diet may play an important role.

Two studies have shown an association between eczema and fracture risk, which we will look at more closely.

Eczema and diet

In a Japanese study involving over 700 pregnant women and their offspring, results showed that when the women ate either a diet high in green and yellow vegetables, beta carotene or citrus fruit there was a significant reduction in the risk of the child having eczema of 59 percent, 48 percent and 47 percent, respectively, when comparing highest to lowest consumption quartiles (3).

Elimination diets may also play a role in identifying allergic causes. One study’s results showed when eggs were removed from the diet of those who were allergic, according to IgE testing, eczema improved significantly (4).

In my practice, I have seen very good results when treating patients who have eczema with dietary changes. My practice has many patients who suffer from some level of eczema. For example, a young adult had eczema mostly on his extremities. When we first met, these were angry, excoriated, inflamed lesions. However, after several months of a vegetable-rich diet, the patient’s skin improved significantly. These results are not unique.

Do immunosuppressives provide a solution?

Injectable biologics are generally recommended for moderate to severe atopic dermatitis when other treatment options have failed (5). Three are approved by the FDA, dupilumab, tralokinumab-ldrm, and lebrikizumab-lbkz.

In trials, they showed good results when topical steroids alone were not effective. Like other monoclonal antibodies, they work by limiting your immune system response. 

Other oral immunosuppressives, such as those used to inhibit organ rejection in transplant patients, are options, as well.

Unfortunately, any suppression of the immune system’s response, whether oral or injectable, leaves the door open for side effects, including serious infections.

Can supplements help reduce symptoms?

Two well-known supplements are known to reduce inflammation, evening primrose oil and borage oil. Are they good replacements for – or additions to – medication? The research is mixed, leaning toward ineffective. There are also some important concerns about them.

In a meta-analysis of seven randomized controlled trials, evening primrose oil was no better than placebo in treating eczema (6). Researchers also looked at eight studies of borage oil and found there was no difference in symptom relief than placebo. 

While these supplements only had minor side effects in the study, they can interact with other medications. For example, evening primrose oil in combination with aspirin can cause clotting problems (7). If you do try them, be sure to consult with your physician first.

What’s the relationship between eczema and bone fractures?

Several studies have examined the relationship between eczema and bone fractures. One observational study of 34,500 patients showed that those with eczema had a 44 percent increased risk of injury causing limitation and a 67 percent risk of bone fracture and bone or joint injury for those over age 29 (8).

Those with both fatigue or insomnia in combination with eczema are at higher risk for bone or joint injury. The researchers postulated that corticosteroid treatments could contribute, in addition to chronic inflammation, which may also add to bone loss risk. Steroids can weaken bone, ligaments and tendons and can cause osteoporosis by decreasing bone mineral density.

A study of over 500,000 patients found that the association between major osteoporotic fractures and atopic dermatitis remained, even after adjusting for a range of histories with oral corticosteroids (9). Also, fracture rates were higher in those with severe atopic dermatitis.

If you have eczema, talk to your physician about having a DEXA (bone) scan to monitor your bone health.

There is an array of possibilities in development, from topical to oral to injectable treatments, which might provide future relief. Until then, partner with your physician to identify solutions that will work for you, but ensure you understand the side effects of what you’re taking. Diet adjustments appear to be very effective, at least at the anecdotal level.

References:

(1) naiad.nih.gov. (2) Acta Derm Venereol (Stockh) 1985;117 (Suppl.):1-59. (3) Allergy. 2010 Jun 1;65(6):758-765. (4) J Am Acad Dermatol. 2004;50(3):391-404. (5) JAMA Dermatol. 2015;151(1):33-41. (6) Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2013;4:CD004416. (7) mayoclinic.org (8) J Allergy Clin Immunol Pract. 2021 Sep 24;S2213-2198(21)01018-7. (9) nationaleczema.org.

Dr. David Dunaief is a speaker, author and local lifestyle medicine physician focusing on the integration of medicine, nutrition, fitness and stress management. For further information, visit www.medicalcompassmd.com or consult your personal physician.

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Stuffin’ Muffins

Food is foremost on the minds of Thanksgiving guests. While food is a big deal on just about every holiday, the meal really takes center stage on Thanksgiving. Although turkey can be a delicious main course, many Thanksgiving diners might admit they anticipate the side dishes more than the turkey. Potatoes, soups, salads and dinner rolls are all competing for space on the Thanksgiving table and can be equally tasty. However, perhaps no side dish is more synonymous with Thanksgiving than stuffing.

Though stuffing is sometimes cooked inside the turkey, others prefer to prepare it in a casserole dish. There’s no shortage of ways to prepare stuffing, and adventurous types might enjoy this recipe for “Stuffin’ Muffins” courtesy of “Lord Honey Traditional Southern Recipes With a Country Bling Twist” (Pelican Publishing) by Chef Jason Smith. In this recipe, stuffing is baked in muffin tins for the perfect portion you can sink your teeth right into.

Stuffin’ Muffins

YIELD: Makes 1 dozen

INGREDIENTS:

1 pound breakfast sausage

2 medium onions, diced

2 cups diced fresh baby portobello mushrooms

1⁄2 cup butter

8 cups crumbled cornbread

Salt and ground black pepper to taste

1 tablespoon dried rubbed sage

1 teaspoon onion powder

1⁄2 cup shaved or grated parmesan cheese

2 eggs

1 ⁄4 cups chicken or veggie broth or stock

DIRECTIONS: 

Preheat oven to 350 F. Butter a 12-hole muffin tin. In a large skillet, crumble the sausage and cook until halfway done. Add the onions, mushrooms and butter. Cook until tender. In a large mixing bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread and the sausage mixture. Add salt and pepper. Add the sage, onion powder, parmesan cheese, eggs, and broth. Mix with hands until all ingredients are moist but hold together. Using a 3-ounce ice cream scoop, place 12 balls into the prepared muffin tin and pat tops flat. Bake for 30 minutes.

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There are three different property tax exemptions available to veterans. METRO photo

By Britt Burner, Esq.

Britt Burner Esq.

While a trust technically becomes the owner of your home when you sign a deed transferring ownership to a grantor trust, rest assured that you will still receive the same real estate tax exemptions and/or benefits that you received when your home was owned in your individual name. Both revocable trusts and irrevocable Medicaid asset protection trusts fall under this category of “grantor trusts.”

Many New York residents depend on property tax exemptions/credits to make ends meet. Prime examples of this are the New York State School Tax Relief Program (STAR) and the Enhanced School Tax Relief (E-STAR). The basic STAR program does not have an age requirement, but the property must be the primary residence of at least one owner. Additionally, all owners and their spouses who live on the property must not have an income of more than $250,000 combined.

The Enhanced School Tax Relief (E-STAR) requires that the property must be the primary residence of at least one owner who is 65 or older by the end of the calendar year in which the exemption begins. Surviving spouses may be eligible to retain the Enhanced STAR benefit. For 2025, the combined incomes of all owners (residents and non-residents), and any owner’s spouse who resides at the property must be limited to $107,300 or less to receive the Enhanced STAR benefit.

There are other exemptions available to senior citizens depending on where they reside. Local governments and school districts in New York State can opt to grant a reduction on the amount of property taxes paid by qualifying senior citizens.

Regardless of a homeowner’s age or income, there are also exemptions available to veterans and those who are disabled. There are three different property tax exemptions available to veterans who have served in the U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines and Coast Guard. Local governments and school districts may also lower the property tax of eligible disabled homeowners by providing a partial exemption for their legal residence. Those municipalities that opt to offer the exemption also set an income limit.

Knowing that the property tax benefits will be preserved in a Revocable Trust or a Medicaid Asset Protection Trust can ease the concerns about engaging in this type of planning. Transferring your house to one of these trusts will prevent your estate from going into probate at your death. Probate is the Court process of validating your Last Will and Testament. The process can take time and delay the distribution of your estate. Beyond probate avoidance, depending on the type of trust you create, it may also provide the additional benefit of protecting the property from being counted as an asset for Medicaid eligibility. 

While the concept of transferring your house can feel complicated and the word “irrevocable” seems daunting, there is much that can be gained from this type of planning without the loss of valuable benefits.

Britt Burner, Esq. is a Partner at Burner Prudenti Law, P.C. focusing her practice areas on Estate Planning and Elder Law. Burner Prudenti Law, P.C. serves clients from New York City to the east end of Long Island with offices located in East Setauket, Westhampton Beach, Manhattan and East Hampton.

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A scene from the 2024 Setauket Veterans Day ceremony. Photo by Toni-Elena Gallo

Each year, November 11 reminds us to thank our military.

The day was born on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month — a moment in which the world paused. This was the moment the armistice that ended World War I was signed. President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed it Armistice Day, a tribute to peace hard-won. Over time, it evolved into what we now know as Veterans Day, but the poignance of that date endures. 

Around our coverage areas, numerous celebrations, ceremonies and breakfasts were held honoring the supreme sacrifice of those men and women who were prepared to die for our nation. The ceremonies TBR was fortunate to cover were attended by those young and old. Political differences were nowhere to be found and everyone present wore a genuine smile.

But, TBR would like to take a moment to recognize the often-unsung heroes of Veterans Day — the families of our veterans. While servicemen and women make the sacrifice by enlisting, their families serve as steadfast supporters at home. From moving base to base and enrolling children in different schools to managing the unique challenges of military life, these families make a profound sacrifice, bearing the weight of service as much as, if not more than, the soldiers themselves.

The constant worry, stress and uncertainty make for a challenging journey, yet military families remain the pillars of support and sanctuary that their loved ones long to return to. This unwavering support reassures service members that their decision to enlist was not in vain — that there is something vital to protect at home. Without the resilience and strength of these families and communities, the lives of our servicemen and women could unravel.

So please, thank our veterans. Extend a hand of gratitude for their sacrifice. But don’t forget to show compassion to their families, as well.

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Although presents garner most of the fanfare during the holiday season, there is no denying that food and entertaining also figure prominently this time of year. Delish magazine reports that Christmas food consumption ranks third, behind Thanksgiving and Super Bowl Sunday, among Americans, and that a single Christmas meal can weigh in at 3,000 calories, not factoring in any other food consumed that day.

No one wants to feel held back while having fun with family and friends, but smart food choices can mean healthier living during this season of festivities. Dish up these alternatives when holiday entertaining.

• Lean on leaner cuts of meat. A strong body is built on protein, and holiday hosts often make a meat or poultry dish the star of the holiday dinner table. When selecting holiday fare, choose leaner options such as “round” or “loin” roasts; otherwise, select white-fleshed fish and skinless poultry in lieu of other options.

• Use broths instead of creams. Soups and gravies are popular this time of year, and both can be made healthier by opting for stock or broth bases over more fattening milks or creams when creating these recipes.

• Create a one-crust pie. Pie is one of the more popular holiday desserts, and plenty of the calories come from a rich, buttery crust. Lighten up by serving a one-crust pie, such as pumpkin or sweet potato. Fruit-based pies like apple or blueberry also can be made with one crust. Simply top the fruit with a light crumb coating.

• Find ways to incorporate vegetables. Vegetables are low in calories and rich in vitamins and nutrients. Many also are high in fiber, so they can help people avoid overeating. According to dietary experts from the American Heart Association, people should aim for four to five servings of vegetables each day. When making a plate, fill half of the plate with vegetables. Enhance dishes like lasagna or other pastas with fresh vegetables as well. See recipe below.

3. Raise the heat to get rid of any liquid that remains. Drizzle in the lemon juice and serve hot. PC226038

• Skip the fried bird. Although deep-frying a turkey can reduce cooking time, frying historically is not the best cooking method for those who are making health-conscious choices. Rather than frying, consider spatchcocking (also known as butterflying) the turkey to enable it to cook faster. Use fresh herbs and seasonings instead of butter and oil to flavor your turkey as well.

• Skip the cocktails. The Center for Science in the Public Interest says that classic cocktails with little to no added sugar typically fall into the 150- to 200-calorie range, while others can be about 200 to 300 calories each. Many people will want to save those extra calories for dessert or another indulgent dish rather than drinking them away. If you want to simulate a cocktail, make a spritzer with sparkling water and unsweetened cranberry juice.

Broccoli with Five Spices

YIELD: Serves 4

INGREDIENTS:

2 tablespoons sunflower oil

1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds

1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds

1/2 teaspoon fenugreek seeds

1/2 teaspoon black mustard seeds

1/2 teaspoon black onion seeds (kalonji)

11/4 pounds broccoli, cut into florets

1 teaspoon turmeric

1 teaspoon chili powder

Salt to taste

1 teaspoon lemon juice

DIRECTIONS:

1. Heat the oil and add all the spice seeds.

2. As they pop and darken, add the broccoli, turmeric, and chili powder, and salt. Mix well and pour in a few tablespoons of water. Bring to a sizzle, then reduce the heat and cook until the broccoli is tender but still holds its shape.

Celebrants can make some smart choices in the foods and beverages they eat to enjoy a healthier holiday season this November and December.

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Participants of last year's Human Library event. Photo by Rachael Eyler, Stony Brook University

By Daniel Dunaief

Stony Brook University is providing another opportunity for students and the community to venture beyond the labels that define and, at times, limit our views and understanding of each other.

Chris Kretz

For the second year, the university is hosting the Human Library, which gives participants an opportunity to learn about other people’s lives.

Started in 2000 in Denmark, the Human Library brings “books” (people from different walks of life, which has included a refugee, disabled parent, and person with bipolar disorder) with “readers,” who have a chance to ask questions for 30 minutes with each book.

The chapters these books share has surprised readers and given them a chance to reconsider how they view people whose lives or life experiences are different from their own.

“It’s not meant to teach people something or have them leave being converted to some new thought process,” said Chris Kretz, Head of Academic Engagement at Stony Brook University Libraries. “It gives [readers] an opportunity to speak with someone they may never normally encounter or have a conversation they may not get to have.”

The Human Library event occurs on Wednesday, Nov. 20 from noon to 3 p.m. and from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Frank Melville Jr. Memorial Library’s Central Reading Room. Participants don’t need to pre-register and can show up at the library, where about 110 readers visited last year.

Kretz recommended the latter session for interested community members, which would allow them to park for free to attend the event.

Following the defined structure created by the original Human Library, attendees won’t know about the specific backgrounds of the books until they arrive. The people that represent the books will all sit at desks wearing the same black t- shirts.

“In the conversation, the colors come out,” Kretz said.

Indeed, Richard Tomczak, Director of Faculty Engagement in the Division of Undergraduate Education at SBU and a reader at last year’s Human Library, can attest to that. Tomczak spoke with a book who grew up in the outer boroughs of New York as a member of the working class.

“When you’re having a conversation about shared experiences or experiences that are new to you, it brings out the human characteristics,” said Tomczak. “I wanted to listen and absorb it all.”

Choosing a book

When readers sit down, the book offers a prologue about their lives, providing some details about their experiences. Readers who aren’t sure where to start asking questions or perusing through different chapters in the book can use prompts at each desk to begin their interaction. Readers who stay for an entire session  will be able to interact with three or four books.

Participants of last year’s Human Library event.
Photo by Rachael Eyler, Stony Brook University

“This is an opportunity for people to hone their conversational skills,” said Kretz, as well as to learn about the lives of the books who are offering details that may surprise and move the readers.

Indeed, this year, the university is stocking tissues near each book for those readers who may feel particularly touched by the stories they hear.

The university would like to ensure that the conversation is respectful and that both sides are comfortable with the discussion.

“We have rules for readers,’ said Kretz. “When they sit down with the book, the pages are in mint condition. We want to make sure everyone is on the same page. Books don’t necessarily have to answer every question.”

Kretz urged attendees to recognize that the interaction is not a debate, but presents ways for people to understand more about their own judgments and, as the Human Library website suggests, to “unjudge” each other. In addition to speaking and asking questions, readers and the books will have a chance to process what they’ve heard.

“By design, it’s a session where you have to listen,” said Kretz. “One of the values is that people get a chance to practice this muscle.”

Second year

In the second iteration of the Human Library, Stony Brook added the later time so people could come after work. The administrators have also reached out to journalism classes and to people in international programs. 

Students from other countries will “have a chance to meet people they wouldn’t have met” during their time abroad, Kretz added.

After speaking with the people who served as books last year, Stony Brook heard that the books also wanted to serve as readers of some of the other people’s lives.

University officials were pleased with the exercise last year.

“I’m impressed by how open our community was,” said Kretz. “People learned a great deal from listening to each other.”

The university is considering making this an ongoing annual tradition and might even bring people together each semester.

Other New York schools and libraries have embraced the Human Library process, including Adelphi and SUNY Albany. The Human Library has also caught on globally, as people in 85 countries on six continents have helped facilitate these conversations.

While the participants engage in meaningful discussion, the exchange isn’t designed to create a lasting social network or lead to ongoing connections between the readers and the books.

“It’s not meant for them at the end of the reading to shake hands and exchange business cards,” explained Kretz.

The event is sponsored by the University Libraries and the DEIA (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Accessibility) Team with the Division of Student Affairs, Office of Diversity Inclusion and Intercultural Initiative, Office of Military and Veteran Affairs, and Diversity, Intercultural and Community Engagement, and the Program in Public Health.

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Apple Pie

By Heidi Sutton

On Thanksgiving, after the turkey and gravy and an assortment of sides have been cleaned off the plate, there’s always room for dessert. Here are two classic pie recipes that everyone one will gobble over.

Apple Pie

Recipe courtesy of Family Features

Apple Pie

YIELD: Makes 8 servings

INGREDIENTS: 

2 refrigerated pie crusts

1 large egg, beaten

6 to 7 cups apples, peeled and sliced, about 2 pounds

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1⁄2 up granulated sugar

3 tablespoons flour

1⁄2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1⁄8 teaspoon nutmeg

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 425 F. Peel apples and cut in quarters. Remove the core and slice apples into 1⁄4-inch to 1⁄8-inch thick. In a large bowl, combine apples, lemon juice, sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Toss well to combine and set aside. Roll half of the dough into a 12-inch circle. Line a 9-inch pie plate with the pastry dough. Fill with apple filling.

Roll the remaining crust and gently place it over the apple mixture. Seal the edges by gently pinching the top and bottom crusts together. You can fold or decorate the edges by crimping or pressing with a fork. Remove any excess dough. Beat the egg and 2 teaspoons of water or milk. Cut 4 to 5 slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape. Brush with egg mixture and sprinkle with sugar (optional).

Bake at 425 F for 15 minutes, reduce heat to 375 F, and bake an additional 35 to 40 minutes or until the crust is golden and the apples are tender.

Pecan Pie

Recipe courtesy of Lines+Angles

Pecan Pie

YIELD: Makes 8 servings

INGREDIENTS:

1 9-inch unbaked frozen deep dish pie shell, thawed 

11⁄2  cups pecans, coarsely chopped

3 eggs, lightly beaten

1 cup light corn syrup

1⁄2 cup brown sugar

1 tablespoon molasses

2 tablespoons butter, melted

2 tablespoons flour

1⁄4 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 350 F. Spread pecans along the bottom of the prepared pie shell. In a large bowl, mix the remaining ingredients and pour over pecans. The pecans will rise to the surface of the pie. Bake for 60 to 65 minutes until the filling has set. Pie is done when the center reaches 200 F. Pie center when lightly tapped should spring back. Remove pie from oven and let cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before serving.

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Crow

Welcome to the 35th edition of Paw Prints, a monthly column for animal lovers dedicated to helping shelter pets find their furever home.

Jayna

Meet Jayna

This adorable two-year-old Yorkie mix  at Little Shelter in Huntington loves toys, attention, and a world without boundaries! While new on the scene, she’s already made an impression and won several hearts with her spunky attitude. This little whirlwind has been stirring up all the possibilities that lie ahead for her bright future, including a forever home. Outgoing and social, she’s ready to interview prospective candidates, so you’ll want to be first in line for this happy, affectionate girl who checks all the boxes…her name is Jayna! 631-368-8770

Flap Jack

Meet Flap Jack

This special needs kitten at the Smithtown Animal Shelter needs a very special home. Flap Jack was born with Cerebellar Hypoplasia, a condition that affects motors skills and coordination. His mobility is pretty compromised, but this smart boy uses his litter box and gets to his food like a champ. He has a fully functioning purr box that he keeps on full blast at all times and is all love, affection, spunk and determination. He needs the perfect home that will understand and support his mobility issues. 631-360-757

Crow

Meet Crow

This beautiful boy has been at Save A Pet in Port Jefferson Station for almost two years! Look at this big goofy guy! Crow is a 3-year-old pit bull and a Southern gentleman. He had a rough start in life and came to New York emaciated, with heart worm disease. He even had buckshot removed from him. Instead of being treated with love, he was target practice for the locals. Crow was robbed of his puppyhood and was instead abused, and discarded.  He holds no grudges and is now a gorgeous Northern gentleman. Crow is big and strong but has been a star in obedience at the shelter. He gets along with most dogs but may chase cats and would do well in a home with older children. Come meet him today! 631-473-6333

Frankie

Meet Frankie

This charming 10-year-old cockapoo at the Brookhaven Animal Shelter is ready to find his forever home! Surrendered when his owner could no longer care for him, this spirited senior still has plenty of spunk. Frankie loves to zoom around, chasing tennis balls and engaging in playful antics that will keep you smiling. This sweet boy also adores his stuffies and is house-trained and crate-trained, making him a perfect addition to your family.

Frankie walks well on a leash and is eager to explore the great outdoors—he’d thrive in a home with a yard. He would do best in a home with older children (16 and up) and may enjoy a calmer canine companion, but a meet-and-greet is essential to ensure everyone gets along. If you’re looking for a delightful companion to share your golden years with, Frankie is ready to bring joy and laughter into your life. Come meet this lovable boy and see how he can brighten your days! 631-451-6955

Miss Beautiful

Meet Miss Beautiful

Hello gorgeous! Waiting at Kent Animal Shelter in Calverton for her furever home, Miss Beautiful is appropriately named. A long-haired beauty from Georgia, she is 5 years old and weighs 7 pounds.  Her owner passed away leaving many cats behind. She came to Kent hoping to find a new family to love her. She is very shy and the shelter staff thinks she is still mourning the loss of her home and family. She comes out of her condo to explore when no one is around and is very vocal about it. She enjoys human attention, welcoming neck scratches and lap time. Miss Beautiful would probably do best in a quiet home with lots of attention. Will that be with you? 631-727-5731, ext. 1

Adopt a Senior Pet Month

Did you know? November is Adopt a Senior Pet Month and the Town of Brookhaven Animal Shelter, 300 Horseblock Road, Brookhaven is offering free adoptions for all pets aged 5 and up (including Frankie!!) through November 30. Apply with their Matchmaker application (www.brookhavenny.gov/153/Adoptions) today and find the perfect companion.

Rescue is a lifestyle. Adopt, don’t shop.

Check out the next Paw Prints in the issue of December 12.

Paw Prints is generously sponsored by Mark T. Freeley, Esq.

 

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METRO photo

By Daniel Dunaief

My wife and I have visited with another couple, whom I’ll call Ben and Jill, several times through the years. We’ve attended sporting events and chatted at meals in different cities.

They are both pleasant and agreeable and seem pleased to reconnect with us each time.

Recently, we had an unhurried dinner where the stories went from the routine to the sublime.

Jill is worried about her second son, who is working incredibly long hours and doesn’t seem to have much, or any, work-life balance.

Her husband Ben, who is in a similar line of work to their son, worked incredibly long hours in the first years of their marriage, too.

Indeed, back in his day, Ben would work all day, come home to take a shower while a car service waited outside and then would return to work, without so much as a meal or a rest.

“I wasn’t as worried about Ben,” she said, as she spent her waking hours taking care of three children who required her considerable attention.

Like many other parents of children in the 30-ish range, Jill is eagerly waiting for her oldest son, who has been in a relationship for years, has purchased a house with his girlfriend and shares custody of a dog, to take those next steps that would not only net her a daughter-in-law but would also bring her grandchildren.

“Honestly,” she shrugged, “I thought I’d be a grandparent by now.”

Speaking of grandparents and grandchildren, Jill shared that her grandfather died last year at the age of 105.

Doing quick math, I realized that he was born the year before the Spanish Influenza of 1919 and died after the end of Covid, which means that he was one of probably a select few who lived through two pandemics in different centuries.

He had served in World War II in Washington state as a code breaker and was a widower for the last few decades of his life.

When her grandfather was 90, he needed heart surgery. Doctors wouldn’t normally perform such a procedure on a 90-year old, but they said he was much more like a typical, healthy 80 year-old.

They put a device in his heart that was supposed to last 10 years. When her grandfather reached 101, the device faltered and he had sepsis. This, the family thought, could be the end of his long life. He rebounded, however, and lived another four years, enduring vision limited in part by reduced visits to the ophthalmologist during Covid.

The conversation turned to baseball, as Ben and Jill are avid Mets fans.

I told them my memories from Game 6 of the 1986 World Series, when I was living in the Boston area and was surrounded by giddy Red Sox fans on the verge of their first championship since 1918.

Ben’s eyes lit up and he told us that he and Jill attended Game 7 of that series.

No, they hadn’t purchased tickets. They knew two people who had worked at Shea Stadium as vendors, but hadn’t worked in a while. They borrowed their vendor badges, which didn’t have their names or pictures on them, arrived at Shea two hours before the game started, and casually walked through the gate.

When they sat down in left field seats, a security guard asked them what they were doing there and they said they worked at the ice cream vendor in left field. The security guard informed them that there were no ice cream vendors in that area. They considered leaving, but instead hid in a stair well until the crowds came in.

They found an usher who allowed them to sit on the concrete steps — empty seats were unlikely in a winner-take-all game — and watched the Mets come back to clinch the title.

Whenever anyone asks Ben to share something people don’t know about him, he relates the story of their bold and successful effort to watch live the last Mets team to win a World Series.

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METRO photo

By Leah S. Dunaief

Leah Dunaief,
Publisher

This is an invitation for you, readers of our newspapers, viewers of our website, followers of us on social media and listeners to our podcast. We encourage you to send us nominations for our special edition, People of the Year.

Many of you know that we publish People of the Year, filled with the exploits of local “heroes,” who go the extra mile to make our communities the wonderful places they are, between Christmas and New Year.

These are people who live or work or in some way directly affect our lives here. They don’t just do their jobs well. They go far beyond what is expected of them, and in so doing, improve our lives.

We solicit these names from you because you know who they are, whether from the cohort of government workers to the unstinting volunteer on your block. By putting the spotlight on them and their unselfish efforts, we make their work a little easier.

Plus, no matter who they are, it feels good to be appreciated.

So think about who helps our villages and towns the most. They can be in any field: healthcare, the economy, elected officials, business people, the arts, science, civics, historical societies, service organizations, education, sports and more.

 And don’t tell them you told us. We like to surprise them when we publish their stories the last week in December.

Thank you & Happy Holidays!

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