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Grandparents found hugging after being killed by fallen tree

<p>Marcia Savage, 74, and Jerry Savage, 78, had already turned in for the night as Hurricane Helene roared outside. </p> <p>Their 22-year-old grandson, John Savage, had checked in on them to make sure they were fine after he heard a snap. </p> <p>“We heard one snap and I remember going back there and checking on them. They were both fine, the dog was fine." he recalled. </p> <p>But not long after disaster struck and John and his father heard a "boom" as one of the largest trees on their property in Beech Island, South Carolina came crashing down on top of his grandparents' bedroom, killing them. </p> <p>“All you could see was ceiling and tree,” he said. “I was just going through sheer panic at that point.”</p> <p>John said his grandparents were found hugging one another in the bed, in what he described as a final heroic act from Jerry who tried to protect his wife. </p> <p>“When they pulled them out of there, my grandpa apparently heard the tree snap beforehand and rolled over to try to protect my grandmother,” he said.</p> <p>Jerry did all sorts of handy work but worked mostly as an electrician and carpenter. Jerry went “in and out of retirement because he got bored”. </p> <p>“He’d get that spirit back in him to go back out and work," his grandson said. </p> <p>Marcia was a retired bank teller who was very involved in their church. </p> <p>Their daughter Tammy Estep said Marcia loved cooking for her family, especially for Thanksgiving, and was known for her banana pudding. </p> <p>The couple were high school sweethearts and were married for more than 50 years, with Tammy recalling that "their love was immediate, and it was everlasting”.</p> <p>“They loved each other to their dying day,” John said.</p> <p>The couple are among more than 150 people confirmed dead in one of the deadliest storms in US history. </p> <p>A GoFundMe organised for their funeral expenses says that they were survived by their son and daughter, along with their four grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. </p> <p><em>Images: Facebook</em></p>

Caring

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Comedian and sitcom star dies at age 76

<p>Legendary comedian and sitcom star Richard Lewis has passed away at the age of 76. </p> <p>The <em>Curb Your Enthusiasm</em> actor, who has been candid in recent years about his struggle with Parkinson's, died of a heart attack, according to his publicist. </p> <p><em>Curb Your Enthusiasm</em> creator Larry David shared an emotional tribute to his friend and co-star, sharing how the men had been friends their whole lives. </p> <p>“Richard and I were born three days apart in the same hospital and for most of my life he’s been like a brother to me,” David wrote in a statement Wednesday, shared by HBO.</p> <p>“He had that rare combination of being the funniest person and also the sweetest. But today he made me sob and for that I’ll never forgive him.”</p> <p>In April 2023, Lewis took to X, formerly Twitter, to explain his ongoing health issues, sharing how he had undergone a series of surgeries.</p> <p>“Three and a half years ago, I was in the middle of a tour and then I finally ended it with a show I said ‘You know, I’m at the top of my game, after 50 years almost I’m just gonna call it quits.’”</p> <p>“Then, out of the blue, the s**t hit the fan. I had four surgeries back to back to back to back. It was incredible, I couldn’t believe it. It was bad luck but it’s life, you know?”</p> <p>“I had back surgery, then I had a shoulder surgery, then I had a shoulder replacement surgery, and a hip replacement. So, you know, there was much where I was just focusing on [physical therapy].”</p> <p>He added that amidst his physical health battle, he had received a devastating neurological diagnosis. </p> <p>“On top of all that, two years ago, I started walking a little stiffly, I was shuffling my feet and I went to a neurologist and they gave me a brain scan and I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.”</p> <p>While being candid about his health problems, Lewis also became known for his dark jokes about his battles with addiction and neurosis. </p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images </em></p>

Caring

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Seinfeld drops huge news for Aussie fans

<p>In a world filled with laughter and punchlines, one man has consistently stood out as a comedy legend: Jerry Seinfeld. The comedic genius, best known for his iconic sitcom <em>Seinfeld</em>, is set to embark on a tour Down Under, gracing Australia with his comedic prowess once again in June 2024. Get ready to laugh until your sides hurt because the king of observational humour is coming to Perth, Sydney, Adelaide, Brisbane, and Melbourne.</p> <p>Seinfeld last performed in Australia in 2017, and fans have been eagerly awaiting his return. In a statement, he expressed his excitement, saying, "I have loved Australia since my first tour there in 1998, and I cannot wait to come back to visit some of the greatest comedy fans in the world."</p> <p>So, what's the deal with the tour? Tickets will go on sale next week, with a Telstra Plus member pre-sale starting on Tuesday, November 14, at 12 noon (local time). The general public can get their hands on these coveted tickets starting on Friday, November 17, at 12 noon (local time) through <a href="https://www.tegdainty.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.tegdainty.com</a>.</p> <p>While Seinfeld is undoubtedly thrilled to be returning to Australia, let's not forget that he once playfully described Melbourne as the "anus end of the world". It's a joke that still resonates with fans, even though it may not have sat well with some Melburnians.</p> <p>In 1998, during a one-man show on Broadway, Seinfeld playfully jabbed at Melbourne, saying, "That's where I started crawling back up the butt." This humorous comment didn't sit too well with then-Victorian Premier Jeff Kennett and Major Events boss Ron Walker. The joke sparked quite a stir, with Walker even offering to send Seinfeld a tube of Rectinol, a haemorrhoid cream, in jest.</p> <p>Seinfeld later issued a humorous apology through his LA publicists, saying, "Australia is one of my favourite places in the world. I never meant to offend Melbourne by comparing it to an anus. I was saying, if you think of the world as an ass, Melbourne is somewhere in the vicinity of the rectum."</p> <p>While Kennett was not too pleased with the comedian's playful jab, it's safe to say that Seinfeld's comment didn't leave any lasting impact. His sitcom continues to be one of the most beloved shows of all time, and Seinfeld himself is celebrated as one of the greatest stand-up comedians in history.</p> <p>As he prepares for his 2024 Australian tour, fans can look forward to witnessing the comedic mastery that has made Jerry Seinfeld an icon in the world of humour. Promoter Paul Dainty couldn't be happier to be a part of the upcoming tour, stating, "He is, without a doubt, the world's most renowned and accomplished stand-up comedian. This tour provides an opportunity for Australians to witness the mastery of his craft."</p> <p>Seinfeld's humour has resonated with audiences for more than 40 years, and it's no wonder why he chose comedy over work. As he once said in a Reddit Ask Me Anything session, "It seemed much easier than work, and more fun than work." Of course, he added, "It turned out to be much harder than work, and not easy at all. But you still don't have to ever really grow up, and that's the best thing of all."</p> <p>In 1989, Seinfeld teamed up with Larry David to create <em>Seinfeld</em>, which became the most successful comedy series in the history of television, running for nine seasons. He has continued to entertain with projects like <em>Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee</em> on Netflix and comedy specials such as <em>Jerry Before Seinfeld</em> and <em>23 Hours to Kill</em>.</p> <p>In addition to his stand-up and TV work, Seinfeld has ventured into the world of film. He has written and directed a yet-to-be-released movie titled <em>Unfrosted: The Pop-Tart Story</em>. The film is set in 1963 Michigan and revolves around two rival cereal companies racing to create a pastry that will change the face of breakfast forever. With a star-studded cast including Melissa McCarthy, Amy Schumer, Hugh Grant and James Marsden, it's a project to keep an eye out for.</p> <p>As Seinfeld prepares to hit the Australian stage once more, you can expect the iconic comedian to serve up his trademark brand of humour, leaving audiences in stitches and reminding everyone why he's considered one of the greats. Don't miss your chance to catch Jerry Seinfeld live on stage during his 2024 Australian tour. Tickets will be selling like hotcakes, or should we say, like Pop-Tarts fresh from the toaster!</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

International Travel

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King Wally Lewis' devastating diagnosis

<p>Rugby league legend Wally Lewis, known as "The King" for his tough football persona, has made a heartbreaking revelation about his health.</p> <p>In an exclusive interview with <em>60 Minutes</em>, the 63-year-old Queenslander disclosed that he has been diagnosed with probable chronic traumatic encephalopathy, or CTE.</p> <p>Despite his physical fitness, Lewis is experiencing the distressing effects of this progressive and fatal condition, which can be caused by repeated blows to the head. CTE leads to memory loss, behavioural issues, and a decline in basic cognitive skills. Fans who still follow Lewis' work as a beloved media personality and sports commentator were shocked by this news.</p> <p>“For a lot of the sport guys, I think a lot of us take on this belief that we’ve got to prove how tough we are. How rugged," Lewis said on the program. "And if we put our hands up and seek sympathy, then we're going to be seen as the real cowards of the game. But we’ve got to take it on and admit that the problems are there.”</p> <p>Throughout his illustrious rugby league career spanning three decades, Lewis captained Australia and inspired Queensland, winning a record eight man of the match awards in his State of Origin career. He later transitioned to a successful career in sports commentary. However, in 2006, Lewis suffered an epileptic seizure during a live broadcast, leading to brain surgery in 2007 to control the seizures.</p> <p>The evidence of Lewis' brain deterioration is evident in his scans compared to those of a healthy brain. Leading neurologist Dr. Rowena Mobbs, who has observed an increasing number of former players suffering from CTE, believes Lewis' symptoms align with the condition.</p> <p>"It's devastating," Mobbs said on the program. "It's hard to see these players go through it. The last thing I want to do is diagnose them with dementia."</p> <p>While definitive diagnosis can only occur through a brain autopsy after death, Mobbs is 90% certain about Lewis' condition based on her expertise.</p> <p>Although some former players are contemplating legal action and compensation claims against the NRL and AFL, Lewis has decided against such measures. He remains grateful for the game he loved and the opportunity to have played it.</p> <p>“I loved the game that I played," he said. "I felt privileged to have played it, and to have been given that chance. When you go out there and you’re wearing the representative jerseys, particularly the one for Australia, you feel ten feet tall and bulletproof. Well, you might think you are. But you’re not.”</p> <p>Lewis plans to leave a legacy beyond the football field by donating his brain for research to create awareness of CTE. He emphasises that his intention is not to seek sympathy but rather support for those affected by the disease.</p> <p>In response to Lewis' revelation, Dementia Australia offers support, information, education, and counselling for those dealing with similar challenges.</p> <p>The NRL has taken steps to address head injuries and concussions, implementing comprehensive head-injury policies and procedures in alignment with world's best practices. The league actively invests in the Retired Professional Rugby League Players Brain Health Study to assess and monitor the health of retired players.</p> <p>Wally Lewis' bravery in sharing his story aims to shed light on the impact of CTE on athletes and underscores the importance of advancing research and support for those facing similar health struggles.</p> <p><em>Images: 60 Minutes.</em></p>

Mind

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Jerry Springer dies at age 79

<p>Jerry Springer has died at the age of 79. </p> <p>The US talk show host passed away peacefully in his home in Chicago on Thursday while surrounded by his closest loved ones. </p> <p>According to reports from <a href="https://www.tmz.com/2023/04/27/jerry-springer-dead-dies/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>TMZ</em></a>, Springer was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer a few short months ago, before his health took a turn for the worse just days before his death. </p> <p>So sudden was his health deterioration, Springer was still working up until a month ago appearing on radio for a local station in Cincinnati.</p> <p>Springer’s friend Jene Galvin spoke on behalf of Jerry's family, confirming the news of his passing. </p> <p>“Jerry’s ability to connect with people was at the heart of his success in everything he tried whether that was politics, broadcasting or just joking with people on the street who wanted a photo or a word,” she said.</p> <p>“He’s irreplaceable and his loss hurts immensely, but memories of his intellect, heart and humour will live on.”</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">“Take care of yourself and each other.” - Jerry Springer </p> <p>In loving memory, 1944 - 2023 <a href="https://t.co/drqrIaeA0z">pic.twitter.com/drqrIaeA0z</a></p> <p>— Jerry Springer Show (@SpringerTV) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpringerTV/status/1651636425417269273?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 27, 2023</a></p></blockquote> <p>Jerry began his early career as a politician, becoming mayor of Cincinnati in 1977 when he began dreaming of roles in higher political offices. </p> <p>However, his shift into TV made him a household name, as <em>The Jerry Springer Show</em> catapulted him to stardom when it began in 1991, and would stay on the air until 2018.</p> <p>The daytime show was known for its wild outbursts and unusual guests, and became so popular in the late ‘90s it would beat Oprah Winfrey’s show in the ratings in several US cities.</p> <p>Springer is survived by his daughter, Katie Springer, 47, who he had with his ex-wife Micki Velton. </p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p>

News

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Beloved singing star reveals condition that may force early retirement

<p>Scottish singer and songwriter Lewis Capaldi has opened up about his battle with Tourette’s syndrome, admitting it could lead him into early retirement.</p> <p>The <em>Before You Go</em> singer, 26, has shared details of his condition with fans in the past, making light of it online, even going viral on TikTok for how he handles his on-stage tics.</p> <p>Speaking to The Sun, the 26-year-old revealed it is a “very real possibility” he will have to put the mic down if his condition deteriorates.</p> <p>"It's triggered by stress, anxiety, and excitement. Basically, any strong emotion, you're f—ed," Capaldi, who was diagnosed with Tourette’s in 2022, said.</p> <p>"There are times it has been really bad and I've wondered whether I can continue to do this with the stress, anxiety, and Tourette's. It all comes as a direct result of doing this job.”</p> <p>Capaldi, renowned online for his self-deprecating sense of humour and cheeky commentary, said he has worried that the crowd may mistake his tics for drug use.</p> <p>He also revealed he may have to stop making music and performing if the condition progresses.</p> <p>"This isn't drugs, and I've had that accusation on nights out. People have asked me directly, 'Are you on drugs, is it cocaine?'" He explained.</p> <p>"If it got to a point where my quality of life was drastically diminished, I'd just have to quit.”</p> <p>Capaldi’s powerhouse voice has thrown him into the mix with UK greats including Sir Elton John and Ed Sheeran.</p> <p>He said that John has been a pillar of support during his struggles with anxiety, telling The Sun that the <em>Rocket Man</em> singer emails him regularly.</p> <p>In early 2023, a clip from Capaldi’s concert made waves online after fans helped him finish the song as he experienced a tic attack on stage.</p> <p>Capaldi was singing his perhaps most famous song, Someone You Loved, at a concert in Germany on February 21.</p> <p>Audience members were quick to notice the singer struggling, so they continued the song from where he left off, with him holding onto the microphone in an attempt to compose himself.</p> <p>In 2022, Capaldi shared his diagnosis with fans on Instagram.</p> <p>"I do the shoulder twitch a lot. And you see underneath every TikTok and stuff, people are like, 'Why is he twitching?', which is fine. Curiosity is fine. I get it," he said.</p> <p>"I haven't really learned much about it. I'm learning. I've got Botox on my shoulder to stop it moving. It worked for a bit," he said.</p> <p>"The worst thing about it is when I'm excited, I get it; when I'm stressed, I get it; when I'm happy, I get it. It happens all the time.</p> <p>"Some days it's more painful than others and some days it's less painful. It looks a lot worse than it is. Sometimes it's quite uncomfortable … but it comes and goes."</p> <p><em>Image credit: Getty</em></p>

Music

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Home and Away catfisher has jail sentence increased

<p dir="ltr">A woman who posed as <em>Home and Away</em> actor Lincoln Lewis to catfish online victims and stalk multiple women has had her prison sentence increased after losing her appeal.</p> <p dir="ltr">Lydia Abdelmalek, 32, was sentenced to four years imprisonment at the County Court of Victoria earlier this week, an increase of one year and four months on the original sentence handed down around three years ago.</p> <p dir="ltr">Judge Claire Quin said she regarded Lydia’s offences as a “very serious example of stalking” and material she had received from the victims demonstrated the “cruel, brutal and ongoing impact” it had on them and their families.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Despite the content of some of the material being reflective of a fictional soap opera, it was not fantasy. It was real and impacted real people,” Judge Quin said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“What may begin as lighthearted can quickly escalate and have significant consequences for the psychological wellbeing of those to whom the ruse is directed.”</p> <p dir="ltr">“It was persistent and malicious.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Judge Quin also noted that Abdelmalek showed no remorse for her crimes, even after one of her victims took her own life. </p> <p dir="ltr">Abdelmalek used various online personas over several years, including former <em>Home and Away</em> actor Lincoln Lewis and British soap star Danny Mac, to catfish and stalk people online from 2011.</p> <p dir="ltr">Judge Quin suggested Abdelmalek’s offending may have been driven by a “number of complex personality factors”.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Her behaviour has been driven by a wish to seek relational intimacy and wish fulfilment on a background of perceived inadequacy,” she said.</p> <p dir="ltr">She was sentenced to two years and eight months in prison in the Heidelberg Magistrates Court back in June 2019.</p> <p dir="ltr">She was later released on bail after she appealed the conviction but failed to overturn the six counts of stalking earlier this year.</p> <p> </p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credits: County Court of Victoria</em></p>

Legal

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Retiree figures out how to win the lotto

<p dir="ltr">A retired couple have beaten possibly all odds when it comes to winning the lottery thanks to “simple math”.</p> <p dir="ltr">Jerry and Marge Selbee from Evart, Michigan, are multimillionaires because of a loophole in the gambling game.</p> <p dir="ltr">After retiring in 2003, Jerry decided to follow the lotto closely and discovered that it's easier than he thought to win, saying, “Anyone could have done it.”</p> <p dir="ltr">The retiree inspected the game called WinFall and found that if no one won the jackpot of US$5 million ($7 million AUD), then the money would go to ticket holders with fewer winning numbers.</p> <p dir="ltr">"I looked at the probabilities of the game and it said that when the WinFall actually occurred and no one won the jackpot, that the prize level would go up by a factor of 10," Jerry said on <a href="https://9now.nine.com.au/60-minutes/jerry-and-marge-go-large-lotto-tips-selbee-how-retired-couple-won-39-million/1e5093b5-be35-400f-a142-8ecdf0c289d0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">60 Minutes</a>.</p> <p dir="ltr">"US$50 for a three-number winner and US$1,000 for a four-number winner and the odds were one in, one in 56 and a half for a three-number winner and one in 1032 for a four-number winner."</p> <p dir="ltr">Jerry went on to explain that part of the problem when it comes to playing the lotto is that people think it is structured.</p> <p dir="ltr">"I did not have to be lucky to win. I had to be unlucky to lose."</p> <p dir="ltr">Almost akin to placing a bet on himself, Jerry decided to test his theory and realised that he was right – and quickly came clean to his wife Marge who was all for it.</p> <p dir="ltr">The couple would buy hundreds of thousands of tickets for the WinFall game – but disaster eventually struck when no more tickets were sold in their hometown.</p> <p dir="ltr">Soon the pair had to drive 15 hours to Massachusetts to keep winning a similar style of lottery with the same "loophole" structure, but it was something they were both keen to do.</p> <p dir="ltr">Eventually, they were caught out by investigators but Jerry and Marge were in fact not doing anything illegal.</p> <p dir="ltr">Their story eventually became well known to the point that a film is being made for streaming service Paramount+ and will feature Breaking Bad’s Bryan Cranston.</p> <p dir="ltr">Despite their lifetime of winnings – in the many tens of millions over the years – Jerry and Marge remain quite humble, spending their money on education for their grandchildren and great-grandchildren.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: Nine</em></p>

Money & Banking

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See inside Jerry Seinfeld’s stunning Colorado retreat

<p><span>Jerry Seinfeld’s stunning holiday sanctuary may just be one of the most glorious properties you’ve ever seen from a celebrity.</span><br /><br /><span>The comedian and his wife, Jessica, are looking to offload the Colorado paradise for $19.65 million (US $14.95m).</span><br /><br /><span>The 27-acreage is frequently visited by the Seinfelds and their three children as they are all avid skiers.</span><br /><br /><span>Listing agent Bill Fandel told Mansion Global that the pair have decided to sell as their children are older and due to the fast-moving real-estate market</span><br /><br /><span>The guesthouse that boasts four-bedrooms and adjoins onto the property is also available for $3.65 million (US$2.77m), reports claims.</span><br /><br /><span>The Seinfelds bought the ski getaway in 2007 for a cool US$7.55 million.</span><br /><br /><span>The estate has been up for sale in the past as well, including when Jerry tested the waters in 2011, with a price tag of $24 million (US$18.3 million).</span><br /><br /><span>The couple then had a change of heart and took it off the market within a few months.</span><br /><br /><span>Colorado is home to many incredible estates that cater to the rich, and this 1,140 sqm rustic lodge with 11 bedrooms, 11 full bathrooms, and three half-bathrooms, is no exception.</span><br /><br /><span>Built in 1991, the home is nestled persfsctly into the private enclave and offers a perfect holiday spot for family and friends in the small town of Telluride.</span><br /><br /><span>Seinfeld purchased the main house in 2007, and the guesthouse a year later to use as a caretaker’s cottage.</span><br /><br /><span>“After the Seinfelds purchased the property, they did a remodel and re-imagined the whole place,” Mr Fandel said.</span><br /><br /><span>There is a vaulted great room that comes with a stone-surround fireplace, and even offers unbelievable mountain views from the floor-to-ceiling windows.</span><br /><br /><span>With an updated, state of the art kitchen and other features including a wood-panelled library, game room, gym and yoga room, and a four-car garage – it almost makes the multi-million dollar price tag sound reasonable.</span><br /><br /><span>Seinfeld, a New York native, dominated the TV line-up in the 1990s with his long-running sitcom <em>Seinfeld</em>, which ran from 1989 until 1998.</span></p>

Real Estate

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Remembering Jerry Stiller: Seinfeld's greatest character actor

<p>Jerry Stiller was behind one of the famous bloopers on popular TV show Seinfeld and co-stars Julia Louis-Dreyfus and Jason Alexander couldn’t stop laughing about it.</p> <p>Stiller, who passed away on Monday, played the rage-filled father of Alexander’s hapless character George.</p> <p>“My George isn’t clever enough to hatch a scheme like this,” Stiller’s character, Frank Costanza, tells Elaine, who shoots back, “You got that right.”</p> <p>Frank Costanza then shouts, “What the hell does that mean?!” — at which Louis-Dreyfus breaks out of character and dissolves in uncontrollable laughter before saying, “That means whatever the hell you want it to mean.”</p> <div class="embed-responsive embed-responsive-16by9"><iframe class="embed-responsive-item" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/L2LdHH0hmHY"></iframe></div> <div class="post_body_wrapper"> <div class="post_body"> <div class="body_text "> <p>This prompts Stiller to deliver the iconic line “You want a piece of me!?” which he repeats after Louis-Dreyfus erupts into laughter.</p> <p>Louis-Dreyfus and Alexander reminisced about the moment during an online fundraiser last week before Stiller’s passing.</p> <p>Louis-Dreyfus shared that Stiller would look to the sky while on camera as he had trouble remembering his lines due to nerves, but the gesture only added to the character’s hilarity.</p> <p>Alexander said that Stiller used his frustration at having trouble with his lines to make his character seem angrier.</p> <p>“That is where a lot of [Frank Costanza’s] internal rage would come from,” Alexander said, chuckling.</p> </div> </div> </div>

TV

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Lewis the koala put to sleep in hospital after horrific bushfire burns

<p>The 14-year-old buck who made international headlines after footage emerged of him coming out of the NSW bushfires with horrifying burns, has died. </p> <p>Lewis the koala was rescued by a heroic grandmother who carried him in her arms and the heartbreaking moment sent hearts racing around the world. </p> <p>The Port Macquarie Koala Hospital has shared sad news on Tuesday afternoon, saying staff made the decision to put him to sleep. </p> <p>“We placed him under general anaesthesia this morning to assess his burns injuries and change the bandages,” the hospital said in a post at about 2.30pm.</p> <p>The hospital said Lewis’ burns became worse “and unfortunately “would not have gotten better”.</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr">UPDATE: Lewis, the koala who went viral in this daring rescue video, has died at Port Macquarie Koala Hospital <a href="https://t.co/RshwIOyvyn">https://t.co/RshwIOyvyn</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RIPLewis?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RIPLewis</a> <a href="https://t.co/nsdOVVAI0U">pic.twitter.com/nsdOVVAI0U</a></p> — NowThis (@nowthisnews) <a href="https://twitter.com/nowthisnews/status/1199342797469425664?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2019</a></blockquote> <p>“The Koala Hospital’s number one goal is animal welfare, so it was on those grounds that this decision was made,” it read.</p> <p>$1.66 million in donations streamed in for the hospital after Lewis’ sad rescue went viral. </p> <p>Grandmother Toni Doherty was filmed ripping the shirt off her back near Long Flat in NSW to save the wailing koala. </p> <p>The 14-year-old suffered burns to his feet, stomach and chest. </p> <p>Named “Ellenborough Lewis” after Toni’s grandchild, or Lewis for short, he had been receiving care by long-term home care volunteer and koala hospital supervisor, Barb.</p> <p>“Barb hand feeds Lewis a single leaf at a time, with feeding taking up to an hour a feed,” the hospital said on Friday.</p> <p>“Lewis’s prognosis is guarded as he sustained significant burns however he is receiving the best possible care.”</p> <p><img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7832794/koala-lewis.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/8dba411c87ee48d3aa0091b70f4a008e" /></p> <p>Lewis was just one of 31 koalas brought into the hospital from fire-grounds in the surrounding area, and an estimate of 350 koalas was killed as a result of the horrific bushfires. </p> <p>There are grave concerns from wildlife rescuers that there is a “much worse” toll of about 1000 koalas across NSW, Queensland and South Australia who were killed. </p> <p>Toni’s husband Peter Doherty told<span> </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.nine.com.au/" target="_blank">Nine</a><span> </span>they “were there this morning” when Lewis died.</p> <p>“We are naturally very sad about this, as we were hoping he’d pull through but we accept his injuries were severe and debilitating and would have been quite painful,” Mr Doherty said.</p> <p>The Port Macquarie Koala Hospital is part of a not-for-profit organisation established in 1973. </p> <p>They operate with four staff members and rely on the help of 140 volunteers. </p> <p>According to its website, the hospital has a treatment room, eight intensive care units, six outdoor intensive care units and 33 rehabilitation yards.</p> <p>In total, they handle between 200 and 250 koalas every year.</p>

Family & Pets

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9-month-old’s saving chance: Court order prevents hospital pulling the plug

<p>A Texas court has allowed a family to place a temporary restraining order on a hospital wanting to take their 9-month-old baby off life support. </p> <p>Tinslee Lewis was born with congenital heart issues and has been under the care of the Cook’s Children’s Hospital for the better part of her whole young life. </p> <p>Her family is rejoicing after a court order has allowed them to buy more time to find a hospital who is willing to keep their baby on life-saving machines. </p> <p>The child was born with Ebstein Anomaly, a rare heart defect meaning there is an abnormality in the tricuspid valve. </p> <p>The disorder separates the right atrium from the right ventricle so normal blood flow cannot occur. </p> <p><span>In some rare cases, the disorder can cause the right atrium to swell, and even result in congestive heart failure. </span></p> <p><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Ftrinity.lewis.3551%2Fposts%2F2476561655891273&amp;width=500" width="500" height="586" style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowtransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></p> <p>While Tinslee has already undergone numerous surgeries for the disorder, for the past several months the young infant has been kept on a ventilator. </p> <p>The doctors worry the 9-month-old baby’s health will not improve and that she is “suffering”. </p> <p>However, her family could not agree less. </p> <p>"We are a family who believes where there's just a little air, there's hope," Beverly Winston, the infant's relative, told<span> </span>CBS DFW. </p> <p>"Regardless of your reason, what the law is -- she deserves the chance to fight for her life, and she has a troop who will help her 100 percent and above."</p> <p>Ahead of the court’s ruling, the hospital has issued a statement explaining the doctor’s conclusions. </p> <p>“Tinslee Lewis is a beautiful baby who has captured the hearts of many at Cook Children’s since her premature birth nine months ago,” a statement from the Cook Children’s hospital read, according to CBS DFW.</p> <p>“In the last several months, it’s become apparent her health will never improve,” the statement continued. </p> <p>“Despite our best efforts, her condition is irreversible, meaning it will never be cured or eliminated. Without life-sustaining treatment, her condition is fatal. But more importantly, her physicians believe she is suffering.”</p> <p>“To maintain the delicate balance necessary to sustain Tinslee’s life, and to prevent her from pulling out the lines that are connected to the ventilator, doctors have had to keep her constantly paralyzed and sedated.</p> <p>“While Tinslee may sometimes appear alert and moving, her movements are the result of being weaned off of the paralyzing drugs. We believe Tinslee is reacting in pain when she’s not sedated and paralyzed.”</p> <p>The hospital says they have reached out to nearly 20 hospitals who have all declined to accept the infant as a patient. </p> <p>Tinslee's life support was due to be switched off on the 17th of November, however a judge sided with her family with preventing from doing so. </p> <p>Another hearing is scheduled on November 22. </p> <p>“I thought that they were going to pull the plug on my baby,” Trinity Lewis, the baby’s mother, told Fox 7 Austin. </p> <p>“I didn’t think she was going to still be here today, and that’s what I’m grateful for.”</p>

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Princess Diana’s niece is dating a 60-year-old millionaire

<p>Lady Kitty Spencer is a well-known face, not just for her successful career as a high-fashion model, but for being the niece of the beloved Princess Diana.</p> <p>However, the model has come to attention again for her love life.</p> <p>The 28-year-old was seen leaving a hotel in Manhattan, New York with her 60-year-old millionaire “boyfriend” Michael Lewis who is the head of the high-end fashion brand, Whistles.</p> <p>The couple have managed to keep a pretty low profile since their relationship went public in August of 2018, and despite rumours of the couple’s 32-year age gap being the main reason for wanting to be unseen by paparazzi, others insist both Lewis and Spencer want to keep their matters together private.</p> <p>Spencer has managed to live a fairly low-profile life, except for her connections to royalty and her successful modelling career until last year when she attended one of the biggest events of 2018 – Prince Harry and Meghan's royal wedding. </p> <p>The princess look-alike blew royal fans away for her striking appearance, stealing the show in her emerald and floral Dolce &amp; Gabbana gown.</p> <p>Spencer signed on as an ambassador with Bulgari who also became aware of her stunning appearance after photos of Princess Di’s niece caused a storm online.</p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bw6gQ6BBQvd/" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bw6gQ6BBQvd/" target="_blank">A post shared by Kitty Spencer (@kitty.spencer)</a> on May 1, 2019 at 2:01am PDT</p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Kitty touched down in Australia this week, surprising her own fans down under.</p> <p>“I love you Sydney! So happy to be back,” she wrote to social media.</p> <p>“Australia is the best! Welcome back darling one,” a fan commented.</p> <p>Another added: “Your Aunt Diana loved Sydney, so I’m glad you do too!”</p> <p>Scroll through the gallery above to see Lady Kitty Spencer’s stunning outfit worn at the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s wedding.</p>

Relationships

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Jerry Seinfeld’s daughter is all grown up

<p>Jerry Seinfeld has posed for a rare photo with his wife Jessica and their 17-year-old daughter Sascha at a fashion event over the weekend.</p> <p>The 64-year-old comedian is notoriously private about his family. Jerry and Jessica, who have been married for 20 years, also have two sons Julian and Sheperd.</p> <p>However, at star-studded event for Net-a-Porter, which was held at the Seinfeld family’s luxurious Hamptons estate, Jerry was all smiles as posed alongside his daughter, actress Gwyneth Paltrow, designer Stella McCarney and his wife Jessica.</p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/BmGn8GKA3SP/?utm_source=ig_embed_loading" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BmGn8GKA3SP/?utm_source=ig_embed_loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Jessica Seinfeld (@jessseinfeld)</a> on Aug 5, 2018 at 9:13am PDT</p> </div> </blockquote> <p>The event was held in conjunction with the GOOD+ foundation, which was created by Jerry’s wife of 20 years.</p> <p>The cookbook author founded the non-profit organisation in 2001 to help provide goods and services to families in need in the greater NYC area.</p> <p>“The partnership between @goodplusfdnand @netaporter and @mrporterlive is unique and powerful. I feel so grateful for your very generous support of hardworking families in the U.S,” Mrs Seinfeld shared on her Instagram. <br /><br />"We loved having many old friends – and new – over to celebrate with us at our house last night."</p>

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Hilarious story behind this photo of young fan with Matthew Broderick

<p>Matthew Broderick rose to prominence for his starring role in ‘80s classic Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, and the actor has found new fame for being back of a fan photo that might have the most entertaining backstory in Hollywood history.</p> <p>Twitter user @HonoredSpirit share the below photo of his friend with the star on social media this week, explaining the strange story behind the photo that’s become a viral hit.</p> <p>Here is the tale, in his own words:</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr">…and they take the picture and go back to the car all big grins to the rest of the family, who all shout in unison WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU??<br /><br />So here’s the photo: <a href="https://t.co/rUGDRL8F21">pic.twitter.com/rUGDRL8F21</a></p> — 👹 (@HonoredSpirit) <a href="https://twitter.com/HonoredSpirit/status/957998926799437824?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2018</a></blockquote> <p>“A few years ago a friend of mine took his family out to Montauk on vacation and had stopped at a little store to get snacks, etc, and who do they see but that Star of Stage and Screen, Matthew Broderick also in the store with a friend,” he wrote. “So my friend politely asks Broderick if he will take a photo with his daughter.</p> <p>“Broderick gallantly obliges, but this is a once in a lifetime photo and he wants it to be just right so he asks Broderick’s friend to kind of move to the side a bit out of frame … and he moves a bit. And my friend says, ‘just a little more, a little more’, keeps doing the nudging motion with his hand. Lots of nudging. Okay, he won’t move any farther, fine, we can crop him out ... and they take the picture and go back to the car all big grins to the rest of the family, who all shout in unison WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU??”</p> <p>Broderick’s friend, who was asked to move out of the frame of the photograph was none other than the legendary comedian Jerry Seinfeld!</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/JerrySeinfeld?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JerrySeinfeld</a> is ALL. OF. US. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GRAMMYs?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GRAMMYs</a> <a href="https://t.co/HnGXzDasSS">pic.twitter.com/HnGXzDasSS</a></p> — GIPHY (@GIPHY) <a href="https://twitter.com/GIPHY/status/957796775225647106?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2018</a></blockquote> <p>Did you spot him?</p>

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How to identify the signs of Lewy body dementia

<p><em><strong>Dr Melissa J. Armstrong is an Assistant Professor in Neurology at the University of Florida. Her research focuses on movement disorders and cognitive impairment.</strong></em></p> <p>Lewy body dementia reached the public eye in 2014 after reports that <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/how-lewy-body-dementia-gripped-robin-williams1/" target="_blank">Robin Williams died with diffuse Lewy body disease</a></strong></span>.</p> <p>But, despite the fact that Lewy body dementia is the <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="https://www.lbda.org/content/10-things-you-should-know-about-lbd" target="_blank">second most common dementia</a></strong></span>, it remains frequently unrecognised.</p> <p>In one study, almost <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2916037/?report=reader" target="_blank">70 per cent of people diagnosed with Lewy body dementia saw three consultants</a></strong></span> before receiving the diagnosis. For a third of people with the disease, <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2916037/?report=reader" target="_blank">getting the correct diagnosis took more than two years</a></strong></span>.</p> <p>As a physician specialising in Lewy body dementia, I often hear patients and families describe delays in getting a diagnosis. It doesn’t have to be this way. Awareness is critical, particularly as new opportunities emerge for diagnosis and treatment.</p> <p><strong>What is Lewy body dementia?</strong></p> <p>The word “dementia” describes a condition affecting a person’s memory and thinking that is a decline from how he or she used to function and that is severe enough to affect day-to-day life. Alzheimer’s disease dementia and Lewy body dementia are the <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="https://www.lbda.org/content/10-things-you-should-know-about-lbd" target="_blank">two most common types</a></strong></span>.</p> <p>Lewy body dementia gets its name from the abnormal protein clumps that are seen on autopsies of the brains of people with Lewy body dementia. The protein <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="https://www.michaeljfox.org/understanding-parkinsons/living-with-pd/topic.php?alpha-synuclein" target="_blank">alpha-synuclein</a></strong></span> – a protein found in the brain, not one you eat – clumps into spheres called Lewy bodies which can be seen using a microscope. These are named after F. H. Lewy, the person who first described them.</p> <p>The diagnosis Lewy body dementia is an umbrella term that includes two different conditions: dementia with Lewy bodies and Parkinson’s disease dementia.</p> <p>In dementia with Lewy bodies, a person develops memory and thinking problems before or at the same time as he or she develops movement problems that resemble Parkinson’s disease.</p> <p>In Parkinson’s disease dementia, a person who has experienced Parkinson’s disease movement problems for years then also develops trouble with memory and thinking.</p> <p>These two conditions <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="https://www.lbda.org/content/symptoms" target="_blank">share many of the same features</a></strong></span>. In addition to memory and thinking problems and movement problems, people with these conditions can have fluctuations in their alertness and concentration, hallucinations and paranoia, acting out dreams during sleep (something called <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/rem-sleep-behavior-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20352920" target="_blank">REM sleep behaviour disorder</a></strong></span>), low blood pressure with standing, daytime sleepiness and depression, among other symptoms.</p> <p><strong>Diagnosis is important</strong></p> <p>Getting the correct diagnosis is critical for patients and families. While no one wants to hear that they have a disease that currently can’t be cured, <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="https://alzres.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/alzrt251" target="_blank">patients and families often feel relief</a></strong></span> that they finally have an explanation for what’s happening.</p> <p>The diagnosis of Lewy body dementia is often missed due to <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2916037/?report=reader">lack of awareness</a> by physicians, patients and families. Even for people eventually receiving a diagnosis of Lewy body dementia, research shows their <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2916037/?report=reader" target="_blank">first diagnosis is commonly incorrect</a></strong></span>. In that study, 26 per cent of people later diagnosed with Lewy body dementia were first diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and 24 per cent were given a psychiatric diagnosis like depression.</p> <p>Knowing the correct diagnosis lets patients and families connect to resources such as the <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="https://www.lbda.org/" target="_blank">Lewy Body Dementia Association</a></strong></span>, an organisation dedicated to helping people living with this disease. The organisation provides education on Lewy body dementia, helps patients and families know what to expect, links patients and families to support and resources and connects them to <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="https://www.lbda.org/participate-in-research" target="_blank">research opportunities</a></strong></span>.</p> <p>Once a diagnosis is made, physicians can also <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/lewy-body-dementia/diagnosis-treatment/treatment/txc-20200391" target="_blank">suggest potentially helpful treatments</a></strong></span>. Medications can include carbidopa/levodopa (Sinemet®), a drug that helps with slow movements, and cholinesterase inhibitors, which are <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://www.alz.org/research/science/alzheimers_disease_treatments.asp#how" target="_blank">drugs developed for Alzheimer’s disease</a></strong></span> that may also <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="https://www.lbda.org/content/recent-studies-demonstrate-benefits-cholinesterase-inhibitors-dlb" target="_blank">help people with Lewy body dementia</a></strong></span>.</p> <p><strong>Avenues for research</strong></p> <p>There is a great deal that we still need to learn about the Lewy body dementias. Increasing research is a <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Current-Research/Focus-Research/Alzheimers-Related-Dementias" target="_blank">priority of the National Institutes of Health</a></strong></span>.</p> <p>Earlier this year, experts published <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5496518/" target="_blank">new criteria for the diagnosis of dementia with Lewy bodies</a></strong></span>, aiming to improve accurate diagnosis.</p> <p>There are also currently multiple research studies trying to find drugs to help people with Lewy body dementias, including studies to investigate drugs <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02669433?term=rvt+101&amp;cond=lewy+body&amp;rank=2" target="_blank">hoped to improve thinking</a></strong></span>, <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02640729?term=nelotanserin&amp;cond=lewy+body&amp;rank=1" target="_blank">hallucinations</a></strong></span> and <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02910102?term=rvt+101&amp;cond=lewy+body&amp;rank=3" target="_blank">walking</a></strong></span>.</p> <p>For Parkinson’s disease dementia, a new drug called pimavanserin was <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="https://www.fda.gov/newsevents/newsroom/pressannouncements/ucm498442.htm" target="_blank">approved by the Food and Drug Administration in 2016</a></strong></span> to treat hallucinations. <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/results?cond=parkinson+disease+dementia&amp;term=&amp;cntry1=&amp;state1=&amp;recrs=" target="_blank">Current research studies</a></strong></span> are testing drugs hoped to improve memory and thinking.</p> <p>Scientists also hope to learn more about the alpha-synuclein protein clumps in the Lewy body diseases. Recent <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="https://www.michaeljfox.org/foundation/news-detail.php?vaccine-for-parkinson-reports-positive-results-from-boost-study" target="_blank">vaccine studies</a></strong></span> suggested that the body might be able to create antibodies against alpha-synuclein. This could be the first step toward a vaccine to help people with Parkinson’s disease and dementia with Lewy bodies. If effective, a vaccine would prompt the immune systems of people with these diseases to create antibodies to <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://www.parkinson.org/find-help/blogs/whats-hot/december-2014" target="_blank">attack and clear the protein clumps</a></strong></span>.</p> <p>With advances in diagnosis and treatment, there is reason for hope.</p> <p><em>Written by Melissa J. Armstrong. Republished with permission of <a href="http://theconversation.com/" target="_blank"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">The Conversation</span></strong></a>. </em><img width="1" height="1" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/83763/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-advanced" alt="The Conversation"/></p>

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