(Family Features) “Our concerns about Alex’s growth began around the age of 7,” said his mother, Diane Benke.

Though Alex measured around the 50th percentile for weight, his height consistently hovered around the 20th percentile. Benke’s instincts told her something wasn’t quite right.

“I kept asking our pediatrician if this could mean something more,” she said. “Each time, I was reassured that everything was fine. After all, I’m only 5 feet tall myself.”

At first, Benke tried setting her worries aside. Alex was one of the youngest in his class, and she wondered if he could simply be a “late bloomer.”

However, as Alex progressed through elementary school, particularly in the 4th and 6th grades, his height percentile dropped into the single digits. The height difference between Alex and his peers became impossible to ignore.

Despite Benke’s growing concerns, their pediatrician continued to assure them Alex was fine.

“We were told as long as he was making some progress on the growth chart, there was no need to worry,” she said, “but we were never actually shown the charts.”

It wasn’t until one of Benke’s friends confided that her own daughter had recently been diagnosed with Pediatric Growth Hormone Deficiency (PGHD) that she decided to seek an endocrinologist.

“Although it took several months to get an appointment,” Benke said, “we were determined to get more answers.”

Navigating the Diagnosis Process
Getting a diagnosis for many medical conditions can be a long journey. However, early detection and diagnosis of PGHD is important. It can help minimize the impact on overall health and support optimal growth.

Once Alex was seen by a pediatric endocrinologist, he underwent a series of evaluations, including bloodwork, a bone age X-ray to compare his chronological age with his skeletal age and a growth hormone stimulation test, which measures the body’s ability to produce growth hormone. He also had a brain MRI to rule out the potential of any pituitary abnormalities.

The results of these tests confirmed the diagnosis of PGHD, a rare condition that occurs when the pituitary gland does not produce enough growth hormone. PGHD affects an estimated 1 in 4,000-10,000 children.

Some common signs parents might notice include: their child being significantly shorter than other kids their age, slower growth rate over time, delayed puberty, reduced muscle strength or lower energy levels, slower bone development and delayed physical milestones.

“Receiving Alex’s diagnosis was a relief,” Benke said. “It provided clarity and a path forward.”

Moving Forward with Treatment
“While the diagnosis process was exhausting, starting treatment made the process worthwhile,” Benke said.

For decades, daily injections of a drug called somatropin, which is similar to the growth hormone your body produces, have been the standard of care for PGHD. It wasn’t until 2015 that the Growth Hormone Research Society recognized the need for a long-acting growth hormone (LAGH), offering once-weekly dosing as an alternative to daily injections.

Benke explained navigating the insurance approval process was another challenge.

“Our insurance required us to try a daily medication before approving a weekly option,” she said.

Alex spent three months on daily medication, often missing doses, before he was approved to switch to a weekly treatment option.

“The weekly option made such a positive impact,” Benke said. “We now have minimal disruptions to our daily routine and Alex hasn’t missed a single dose since.”
 
Beyond a more convenient dosing option, the change gave Benke peace of mind.

“We could focus more on being a family again, without the daily worries of his next dose,” she said.

If you’re concerned about your child’s growth, talk to their doctor as soon as possible. Early diagnosis is important, as treatment becomes less effective once a child’s bones stop growing.

Benke’s advice to other parents: “Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, seek out a specialist and push for answers and don’t give up, even when faced with hurdles… Stay hopeful and persistent – it’s a journey worth fighting for.”

Visit GHDinKids.com to download a doctor discussion guide to help prepare for your next appointment.

SOURCE:
Skytrofa

Last Updated on January 20, 2026 by Daily News Staff

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LAS VEGAS — CES is usually where the flashiest screens, fastest chips, and wildest concept gadgets steal the spotlight. But this year, wellness wearables made a serious push into the conversation—and United One Group Healthcare (UOG) walked away with some of the show’s biggest editorial wins.

United One Group (UOG), the developer behind what it calls the world’s first Black Diamond Carbon & Nano Silver fusion wellness technology, announced it earned three major industry awards at CES 2026—plus an on-floor boost when a CES official spokesperson publicly highlighted UOG’s featured productsduring the event.

Three CES 2026 Awards for UOG’s 5-in-All Line

According to the company, UOG’s wearable wellness products received:

• Two TWICE Picks Awards for
  • UOG 5-in-All Wellness Foot Pain Relief Socks
  • UOG 5-in-All Wellness Band
• One TechRadar Pro Picks Award for
  • UOG 5-in-All Wellness Band

That kind of cross-recognition matters at CES, where editorial awards are often split across categories and audiences. UOG’s haul places it among a smaller group of wellness-focused brands to earn multiple editorial honors—including wins from both TWICE (a key consumer electronics and retail publication in the U.S.) and TechRadar Pro (a global tech and professional solutions outlet).

Why These Awards Carry Weight

Both award programs are editor-selected, not paid placements, which is a big deal in a show environment packed with marketing noise.

• TWICE Picks Awards spotlight products that show market readiness, performance, and practical consumer value.
• TechRadar Pro Picks Awards focus on meaningful innovation, usability, and real-world impact.

In other words: these wins aren’t about the loudest booth—they’re about products editors believe people will actually use.

What UOG Showed Off at CES 2026

UOG’s CES lineup centers on non-invasive, wearable wellness gear that integrates its proprietary Black Diamond Carbon & Nano Silver nanotechnology. The company says the material is designed to support microcirculation, activate the body’s natural electrical pathways, and encourage recovery—without electronics or medication.

Here’s a quick look at the featured products:

1) UOG 5-in-All Wellness Band (Award Winner)

The 5-in-All Wellness Band was the standout, earning recognition from both TWICE and TechRadar Pro. UOG describes it as a soft, flexible, one-size wearable designed to support:

• deeper sleep
• headache relief and reduced cranial tension
• neck and shoulder relaxation
• stress reduction through parasympathetic nervous system support

UOG positions it for people dealing with insomnia, migraines, eye fatigue, frequent travel, and high-stress routines.

2) UOG 5-in-All Wellness Foot Pain Relief & Diabetic Support Socks (Award Winner)

Also a TWICE Picks Awards winner, these socks are aimed at relief for:

• plantar fasciitis
• neuropathy
• swelling
• chronic foot fatigue

The company says the design includes a three-zone arch system and targeted cushioning to support circulation and nerve function—especially for people managing diabetes or circulation issues.

3) Performance Sports Socks, Knee Sleeves, and Arm Sleeves

UOG also featured additional recovery-focused wearables, including:

• Performance Sports Socks for circulation support, fatigue reduction, and daily recovery
• Knee Sleeves engineered for joint stabilization and compression-based comfort
• Arm Sleeves designed to support endurance, flexibility, and reduced arm/elbow fatigue

The common thread: UOG’s nanotech material paired with compression and ergonomic design, aimed at everyday users as much as athletes.

What’s Next for UOG After CES

UOG says its long-term mission is to merge advanced nanotechnology with accessible wellness solutions—and it plans to expand into next-generation recovery wear, biosensor-integrated systems, and AI-driven wellness platforms.

At a show where “the future” often means bigger, brighter, and faster, UOG’s CES moment points to a different direction: wellness tech that’s wearable, practical, and built around daily life.

UOG at CES 2026

UOG exhibited at Booth #56227 at the Venetian Expo in Las Vegas, offering live demos, performance testing, and product trials throughout the show.

More info about UOG at CES 2026

• PRNewswire: UOG Wins Three Industry Awards at CES 2026
• CES Exhibitor Listing: United One (Group) America Inc (CES 2026)
• United One Group Healthcare (UOG) Official Website
• Yahoo Finance: UOG Unveils Next-Gen Recovery Wearables at CES 2026

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Last Updated on January 18, 2026 by Daily News Staff

Finding Your Rhythm Again: Reestablishing Routines in the New Year

(Family Features) The holiday season is special, fun and often a bit chaotic, filled with family gatherings and joyful celebrations. Once the decorations come down and chaos subsides in the new year, many families face a familiar challenge: getting children back into their regular routines. After weeks of excitement, travel and inconsistent schedules, the transition back to structure can feel daunting. However, with a thoughtful approach, parents can help their children ease back into their daily rhythms, and in the process, restore calm for the entire family. Dr. Lauren Loquasto, senior vice president and chief academic officer at The Goddard School, provides this insight and guidance for parents. Understand Why Routines Matter Children thrive on predictability. Routines provide a sense of security, reduce stress and support emotional regulation. Children feel safe, even proud, when they know what comes next. Routines also help them develop independence and self-control. After the holidays, reestablishing these patterns is essential for a smooth return to school and everyday life. Start with Sleep For young children, sleep is the foundation of a successful routine. Consistent sleep supports focus, tolerance and cooperation. For optimal brain repair and growth, preschoolers typically need 10-13 hours of sleep per night, but seasonal festivities can disrupt sleep schedules, frequently leaving children overly tired. Begin by gradually adjusting bedtime by moving it earlier in 15-minute increments each night until you resume your regular schedule. Pair this with calming pre-bedtime rituals like reading or quiet play to signal it’s time to wind down. The morning routine is equally important. Strive for consistent wake-up times, even on the weekends. If your child is resistant, teach them how their sleep routine helps their body and mind. For example: “Your body relaxes and grows stronger when you get enough sleep, so you feel good afterward.” Reintroduce Standard Mealtimes Holiday snacking and large meals at family gatherings can disrupt normal eating habits. Reinstate regular meal and snack times to help your child feel grounded. Offer balanced options and involve them in planning or preparing meals, as they’re more likely to embrace healthy choices when they have a role in the process. Prioritize Physical Activity After extended periods of lounging indoors – and likely an overdose of screen time – children need movement to burn energy and boost their moods. Coordinate outdoor play and family walks. If the weather isn’t cooperative, move around indoors with hide-and-seek and dance sessions. Physical activity not only supports health but also helps regulate sleep and behavior. Strategically Provide Choices When children have a voice, they are more likely to stay engaged and stick to their routines. As your child settles back into familiar patterns, this is an ideal moment to assess where you can ease your grip just enough to support their growing autonomy. This doesn’t mean relinquishing full decision-making power; rather, it’s about offering structured, intentional choices that help them feel a sense of control over their day. You know your child best, so you can determine when to be flexible. For example, it may not matter if they change into their pajamas right after dinner or just before bed but shifting when they go to the bathroom could completely disrupt their routine and, in turn, your day. Model Behavior Children learn by example and they are always watching their parents. If you reestablish and consistently maintain your own routines – healthy meals, quality sleep and physical activity among them – your child is more likely to follow suit. Make it a family effort rather than a set of rules imposed on them, and make it fun. To help routines stick, consider sticker charts to track progress and incentivize independence and accountability. Resetting routines isn’t about perfection; it’s about creating a supportive environment where children feel secure and prepared for what’s ahead. With patience, consistency and a positive attitude, you can help your child start the new year on the right foot. For more parenting guidance and insights, including a blog and webinar series, visit the Parent Resource Center at GoddardSchool.com.   Photos courtesy of Shutterstock SOURCE: https://stmdailynews.com/why-i-never-gave-my-small-dog-rawhide-chews-a-pet-parents-perspective/