Mariel Nasis-Matuza, CPNP - Integrative Pediatrics

Can't believe this weekend marks the "unofficial" end of summer! Monday is Labor Day, a national holiday recognizing and honoring the contributions of American workers for the achievements and growth of our nation.

In observance of the holiday weekend, the office will be closed Thursday, 8/29 through Monday, 9/2. We will welcome students and the new school year when we reopen on Tuesday, September 3rd!

Wishing everyone a safe, happy, healthy holiday weekend!

When 7-year-old M had a sudden onset of severe OCD behaviors and anxiety in the beginning of May, Zoloft was recommended. Mom didn’t agree. Instead, she kept looking for a provider who would really listen and look for a root cause. She found us!

Today, mom happily shares:

“We are pleased to say that M is almost 100% back to her original self! Thank you SO much for your patience, optimism, and support during this dark time.”

Share this post to spread the word… There are options! Find someone who will take the journey with you! 🌈

—

🗓️Need to make an appointment? Evening, virtual and concierge appointments are available upon request.
Phone: (631) 314-8317
Email: [email protected]

Welcoming patients in Huntington and Hampton Bays:

Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays in Huntington:
📍33 Walt Whitman Road (just north of the mall),
🚪Suite 135W (use WEST entrance)

Wednesdays in Hampton Bays:
📍186 (sign from road says 182) West Montauk Highway,
🚪Suite D6 (yes, we moved from Suite E7!)

We are excited to offer preventative screening in Huntington and Hampton Bays!

Are you worried about radiation in mammograms?

Are you looking for a preventative screening tool that's radiation free? A safe and natural alternative?

Thermography is your answer!
No radiation.
No contact.
No compression.

A screening tool for early detection, thermography looks for possible root causes, areas of inflammation, toxicities, thyroid pathologies. It's not just about breast cancer...

It's really about prevention... for women, men and children!

September 11 in Hampton Bays:
https://betterbodythermography.as.me/Hampton-Bay-Mariel-Nasis-Matuza-CPNP

September 26 in Huntington:
https://betterbodythermography.as.me/Huntington-Station-Mariel-Nasis-Matuza-CPNP

One small step to a healthier you!

Schedule your appointment today!
https://betterbodythermography.as.me/Hampton-Bay-Mariel-Nasis-Matuza-CPNP

For more information, call the office: 631-314-8317
OR email: [email protected]

We Are Open!

Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays in Huntington:
📍33 Walt Whitman Road (just north of the mall),
🚪Suite 135W (use WEST entrance)

Wednesdays in Hampton Bays:
📍186 (sign from road says 182) West Montauk Highway,
🚪Suite D6 (yes, we moved from Suite E7!)



Image courtesy of betterbodythermography.com

One more week before the Labor Day weekend, which marks the “unofficial” end of summer!🥦🍓

In observance of the Labor Day weekend, the office will be closed Thursday, August 29th through Labor Day, Monday, September 2nd. We will reopen on Tuesday, September 3rd, to welcome in the new school year!

If you haven’t done so already, there’s still time to schedule annual physical exams and get all the paperwork in for school. Call the office to make an appointment today!

🗓️ Evening, virtual and concierge appointments are available upon request.
Phone: (631) 314-8317
Email: [email protected]

Welcoming patients in Huntington and Hampton Bays:

Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays in Huntington:
📍33 Walt Whitman Road (just north of the mall),
🚪Suite 135W (use WEST entrance)

Wednesdays in Hampton Bays:
📍186 (sign from road says 182) West Montauk Highway,
🚪Suite D6 (yes, we moved from Suite E7!)

MOMS AND DADS NEED CARE TOO!

In order to take care of the kids, parents need to pay attention to their own needs too! Find a sitter and put “date night” on the calendar! There are a few weeks left to enjoy the summer sunset… or sunrise!

Phone: (631) 314-8317
Email: [email protected]

Welcoming patients in Huntington and Hampton Bays:

Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays in Huntington:
📍33 Walt Whitman Road (just north of the mall),
🚪Suite 135W (use WEST entrance)

Wednesdays in Hampton Bays:
📍186 (sign from road says 182) West Montauk Highway,
🚪Suite D6 (yes, we moved from Suite E7!)

It’s not just about breast cancer…

It’s all about prevention!

Thermography looks for possible root causes, areas of inflammation, toxicities, thyroid pathologies.

No radiation.
No contact.
No compression.

Schedule your appointment today!

https://betterbodythermography.as.me/Hampton-Bay-Mariel-Nasis-Matuza-CPNP

For more information, call the office: 631-314-8317

Genes are NOT your destiny! Knowing your MTHFR will allow you to be more proactive about your health.

Navigating Life with the Gene Mutation? 🧬 Here’s Your Guide to Wellness: 🙌

🏋️‍♀️ Incorporate gentle exercise to enhance circulation and overall well-being 🌟

🌿 Swap out processed snacks for folate-packed delights like fresh spinach salads 🥗

💊 Embrace Methylated B12—your go-to for supporting your liver and detox organs 🫀

🏡 Steer clear of environmental toxins and maintain a mold-free home ❌

😴 Ensure 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night for optimal health 💤

Don’t know if you have the MTHFR gene mutation? Find out through a simple blood test or a DNA testing kit like (from saliva).

Want more tips? DM me for personalized advice on managing MTHFR with ease! 💃

Together, let's take small steps towards a healthier you, one day at a time.

—

🗓️Call or email to schedule a FREE 15-minute consultation. Evening, virtual and concierge appointments are available upon request.
Phone: (631) 314-8317
Email: [email protected]

We Are Open!

Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays in Huntington:
📍33 Walt Whitman Road (just north of the mall),
🚪Suite 135W (use WEST entrance)

Wednesdays in Hampton Bays:
📍186 (sign from road says 182) West Montauk Highway,
🚪Suite D6 (yes, we moved from Suite E7!)

Are you worried about radiation in mammograms?

Are you looking for a preventative screening tool that’s radiation free?

Looking for a “safe natural alternative?”

Thermography is your answer!
No radiation.
No contact.
No compression.

A screening tool for early detection, thermography looks for possible root causes, areas of inflammation, toxicities, thyroid pathologies. It’s not just about breast cancer…

It’s really about prevention!

Time slots are limited so schedule your appointment early at our Huntington Station and Hampton Bays offices!

On September 11 in Hampton Bays:
https://betterbodythermography.as.me/Hampton-Bay-Mariel-Nasis-Matuza-CPNP

On September 26 in Huntington Station:
https://betterbodythermography.as.me/Huntington-Station-Mariel-Nasis-Matuza-CPNP

Together, let's take small steps towards a healthier you, one day at a time.

Have questions? Call the office Monday through Friday: 631-314-8317

OR email: [email protected]

We Are Open!

Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays in Huntington:
📍33 Walt Whitman Road (just north of the mall),
🚪Suite 135W (use WEST entrance)

Wednesdays in Hampton Bays:
📍186 (sign from road says 182) West Montauk Highway,
🚪Suite D6 (yes, we moved from Suite E7!)



Image courtesy of betterbodythermography.com

Enjoy your summer outdoors! When bug bites happen, here are natural ways to soothe the itch:

- Baking soda: Make a paste with water.
- Aloe vera
- Ice
- Honey
- Oatmeal
- Basil tea: Steep leaves in boiled water, cool, then apply.
- Thyme: Apply minced leaves or make a tea like basil.
- Peppermint oil: Mix with coconut oil.
- Garlic: Mince and mix with coconut oil.
- Onion: Cut and rub on the bite.
- Dab of rubbing alcohol as soon as possible after bite.

Stay itch-free and have fun!

—

🗓️Call or email to schedule a FREE 15-minute consultation. Evening, virtual and concierge appointments are available upon request.
Phone: (631) 314-8317
Email: [email protected]

We Are Open!

Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays in Huntington:
📍33 Walt Whitman Road (just north of the mall),
🚪Suite 135W (use WEST entrance)

Wednesdays in Hampton Bays:
📍186 (sign from road says 182) West Montauk Highway,
🚪Suite D6 (yes, we moved from Suite E7!)

Let's applaud the outstanding Christine Curiale and other remarkable Power Women who make the East End an unforgettable place! We're enjoying a memorable evening at the sophisticated Muses in Southampton, supporting the Southampton Day Care Center. Cheers to Christine's well-deserved recognition!

What a great day! Excited to greet so many from as far as New Jersey, Greece and Jamaica as we help give the Gift of Sight.

Heartfelt gratitude to VSP for sharing the program, the Viscardi School for hosting the event, John Kornreich for making the connection, and all the VSP volunteers who made this all happen!

Giving the gift of sight... And meeting amazing people along the way!

Thank you, Senator Jack Martins, for making time to stop by and support this event!

JOIN ME ON WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 7th!

The office will be closed on this day because as treasurer of the Fairy Godmother Foundation, I will be at the Viscardi School to meet all of you! Use the QR Code to register for your FREE eye exam and glasses! Get the new school year off to a good start and empower our students with the gift of sight!!! Do extend this invitation to the entire family, aunts, uncles, cousins, grandparents, everyone!

👀 August is Children's Eye Health and Safety Month! 👀

Did you know that vision plays a crucial role in your child's development and learning? It's true! That's why this month, we're focusing on the importance of protecting your little one's precious eyes.

Here are a few simple tips to keep your child's eyes healthy:

Schedule regular eye exams: Make sure your child has their eyes checked by a professional at least once a year.
- Protect their eyes from the sun: Invest in sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays.
- Limit screen time: Encourage outdoor play and activities that don't involve screens.
- Watch for signs of vision problems: If you notice your child squinting, rubbing their eyes, or having trouble seeing, schedule an eye exam.
- Teach them about eye safety: Explain the importance of wearing protective eyewear during sports and activities.

Let's work together to keep our kids' eyes healthy and bright! ✨

—

🗓️Call or email to schedule a FREE 15-minute consultation. Evening, virtual and concierge appointments are available upon request.
Phone: (631) 314-8317
Email: [email protected]

We Are Open!
Wednesdays in Hampton Bays:
📍186 (sign from road says 182) West Montauk Highway,
🚪Suite D6 (yes, we moved from Suite E7!)

Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays in Huntington:
📍33 Walt Whitman Road (just north of the mall),
🚪Suite 135W (use WEST entrance)

World Breastfeeding Week 2024 has started this week! (from August 1 through August 7, 2024.)

will focus on survival, health and wellbeing. It will showcase the need to improve breastfeeding support to reduce inequalities that exist in our society with a special focus on breastfeeding in times of emergencies and crises.

For more information and resources, visit the official World Breastfeeding Week website: https://worldbreastfeedingweek.org/

—

🗓️Call or email to schedule a FREE 15-minute consultation. Evening, virtual and concierge appointments are available upon request.
Phone: (631) 314-8317
Email: [email protected]

We Are Open!
Wednesdays in Hampton Bays:
📍186 (sign from road says 182) West Montauk Highway,
🚪Suite D6 (yes, we moved from Suite E7!)

Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays in Huntington:
📍33 Walt Whitman Road (just north of the mall),
🚪Suite 135W (use WEST entrance)

JOIN ME ON WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 7th!

The office will be closed on this day because as treasurer of the Fairy Godmother Foundation, I will be at the Viscardi School to meet all of you! Use the QR Code to register for your FREE eye exam and glasses! Get the new school year off to a good start and empower our students with the gift of sight!!! Do extend this invitation to the entire family, aunts, uncles, cousins, grandparents, everyone!

👀 August is Children's Eye Health and Safety Month! 👀

Did you know that vision plays a crucial role in your child's development and learning? It's true! That's why this month, we're focusing on the importance of protecting your little one's precious eyes.

Here are a few simple tips to keep your child's eyes healthy:

Schedule regular eye exams: Make sure your child has their eyes checked by a professional at least once a year.
- Protect their eyes from the sun: Invest in sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays.
- Limit screen time: Encourage outdoor play and activities that don't involve screens.
- Watch for signs of vision problems: If you notice your child squinting, rubbing their eyes, or having trouble seeing, schedule an eye exam.
- Teach them about eye safety: Explain the importance of wearing protective eyewear during sports and activities.

Let's work together to keep our kids' eyes healthy and bright! ✨

—

🗓️Call or email to schedule a FREE 15-minute consultation. Evening, virtual and concierge appointments are available upon request.
Phone: (631) 314-8317
Email: [email protected]

We Are Open!
Wednesdays in Hampton Bays:
📍186 (sign from road says 182) West Montauk Highway,
🚪Suite D6 (yes, we moved from Suite E7!)

Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays in Huntington:
📍33 Walt Whitman Road (just north of the mall),
🚪Suite 135W (use WEST entrance)

Summer's here, and with it come those pesky bugs. But fear not—there are simple ways to keep your little ones bite-free and enjoy the sunshine!

Here are some Bug Bite Prevention Tips:

▪️ Dress Smart: Light-colored, long-sleeved shirts and pants can help keep bugs at bay.

▪️ Use a Natural Insect Repellent: Apply a repellent made of natural ingredients to exposed skin and clothing. Always follow the product's instructions for safe use on children. Some effective natural ingredients include: rose geranium oil, lemongrass oil, lemon eucalyptus oil, peppermint, cinnamon, cloves, garlic, rosemary, spearmint and thyme.

▪️ Avoid Peak Bug Hours: Dawn and dusk are prime times for mosquitoes. Try to stay indoors during these hours or take extra precautions if you need to be outside.

▪️ Keep Bugs Out: Use screens on windows and doors to prevent insects from getting inside. Repair any holes or tears promptly.

▪️ Remove Standing Water: Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water. Regularly empty any containers that collect water around your home.

▪️ Choose Safe Play Areas: Avoid areas with tall grass, standing water, or heavy vegetation where ticks and other bugs thrive.

▪️ Do a Daily Check: After spending time outdoors, check your child's skin and scalp for ticks and other bugs. Prompt removal reduces the risk of disease transmission.

Stay safe and enjoy the outdoors! 🌞🦋

—

🗓️Need to make an appointment? Evening, virtual and concierge appointments are available upon request.
Phone: (631) 314-8317
Email: [email protected]

Welcoming patients in Huntington and Hampton Bays:
Mondays, Tuesdays & Thursdays in Huntington:
📍33 Walt Whitman Road (just north of the mall),
🚪Suite 135W (use WEST entrance)

Wednesdays in Hampton Bays:
📍186 (sign from road says 182) West Montauk Highway,
🚪Suite D6 (yes, we moved from Suite E7!)

☀️ Summer Sleep Schedule Tips 🌙

Summer fun doesn’t have to disrupt your child’s sleep! Here are some tips to keep their sleep schedule on track:

💤Maintain a consistent bedtime.
🛏️Keep the bedroom cool and dark.
📵Limit screen time before bed.
☀️Encourage outdoor play during the day.
📖Establish a relaxing bedtime routine.

Sweet dreams, everyone! 😴

—

🗓️Call or email to schedule an appointment. Evening, virtual and concierge appointments are available upon request.
Phone: (631) 314-8317
Email: [email protected]

Welcoming patients in Huntington and Hampton Bays:
Mondays, Tuesdays & Thursdays in Huntington:
📍33 Walt Whitman Road (just north of the mall),
🚪Suite 135W (use WEST entrance)

Wednesdays in Hampton Bays:
📍186 (sign from road says 182) West Montauk Highway,
🚪Suite D6 (yes, we moved from Suite E7!)

🌞 Stay Safe in the Water 🌞

Water play is so much fun, but it's important to stay safe! Here are some essential water safety tips:

⭐Never leave kids unattended near water.
⭐Use appropriate floatation devices.
⭐Know CPR and emergency procedures.
⭐Avoid distractions like phones while supervising.
⭐Ensure pools are secured with gates and alarms.

Let’s keep our little ones safe and happy! 🏖️.

—

🗓️Need to make an appointment? Evening, virtual and concierge appointments are available upon request.
Phone: (631) 314-8317
Email: [email protected]

Welcoming patients in Huntington and Hampton Bays:
Mondays, Tuesdays & Thursdays in Huntington:
📍33 Walt Whitman Road (just north of the mall),
🚪Suite 135W (use WEST entrance)

Wednesdays in Hampton Bays:
📍186 (sign from road says 182) West Montauk Highway,
🚪Suite D6 (yes, we moved from Suite E7!)

🌞📚 Kickstart Summer Reading Adventures!

Dive into a world of imagination this summer with your kiddos! Reading not only keeps young minds sharp but also offers countless adventures right from the comfort of home. Visit your local library and let your child pick out books that spark their curiosity. Happy reading! 🏖️✨

—

Take advantage of our free 15-minute phone consultation! Schedule one as soon as tomorrow!
Phone: (631) 314-8317
Email: [email protected]

Evening, virtual and concierge appointments are available upon request.

Welcoming patients in Huntington and Hampton Bays:
Mondays, Tuesdays & Thursdays in Huntington:
📍33 Walt Whitman Road (just north of the mall),
🚪Suite 135W (use WEST entrance)

Wednesdays in Hampton Bays:
📍186 (sign from road says 182) West Montauk Highway,
🚪Suite D6 (yes, we moved from Suite E7!)

Happy Anniversary, Disneyland! 🏰🌟

From the iconic castle to the enchanting rides, Disneyland has brought joy and magic to families for generations. Here's to many more years of fun and fantasy at Disneyland! 🐭❤️ Remember to encourage creativity and imagination during these lazy days of summer!

—

🗓️Need to make an appointment? Evening, virtual and concierge appointments are available upon request.
Phone: (631) 314-8317
Email: [email protected]

Welcoming patients in Huntington and Hampton Bays:
Mondays, Tuesdays & Thursdays in Huntington:
📍33 Walt Whitman Road (just north of the mall),
🚪Suite 135W (use WEST entrance)

Wednesdays in Hampton Bays:
📍186 (sign from road says 182) West Montauk Highway,
🚪Suite D6 (yes, we moved from Suite E7!)

🌼 It's not too late to Celebrate Global Hug Your Kid Day 🌼

Hugs are a universal language of love and care. Yesterday was Global Hug Your Kid Day, a reminder to cherish the special moments we share with our children. Hugs not only make them feel loved but also support their emotional and physical health. While the official day has passed, it's never too late to give your child a big hug and show them how much they are loved 💛

—

🗓️Need to make an appointment? Evening, virtual and concierge appointments are available upon request.
Phone: (631) 314-8317
Email: [email protected]

Welcoming patients in Huntington and Hampton Bays:
Mondays, Tuesdays & Thursdays in Huntington:
📍33 Walt Whitman Road (just north of the mall),
🚪Suite 135W (use WEST entrance)

Wednesdays in Hampton Bays:
📍186 (sign from road says 182) West Montauk Highway,
🚪Suite D6 (yes, we moved from Suite E7!)

🖍️🎨 Happy Etch A Sketch Day! 🎨🖍️

Today, we celebrate the timeless toy that has sparked creativity and imagination in children for generations. It’s a wonderful way to combine fun and learning. Let’s inspire our kids to dream big and create with their imagination.

Summer is the perfect time to nurture your child’s 𝗜𝗺𝗮𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗖𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗶𝘁𝘆:

▪️ Inspire storytelling by telling stories yourself!
▪️ Allow them to play outdoors. Fresh air and sunshine!
▪️ Introduce them to new activities. Star gazing, naming flowers on a walk are just a few.
▪️ Have fun exploring by taking them to new places. Doesn’t have to be far. A new block, a new library, a new park!
▪️ Let them do things their own way, even if they make mistakes. Experience is the best teacher!

🗓️Need to make an appointment? Evening, virtual and concierge appointments are available upon request.
Phone: (631) 314-8317
Email: [email protected]

Welcoming patients in Huntington and Hampton Bays:
Mondays, Tuesdays & Thursdays in Huntington:
📍33 Walt Whitman Road (just north of the mall),
🚪Suite 135W (use WEST entrance)

Wednesdays in Hampton Bays:
📍186 (sign from road says 182) West Montauk Highway,
🚪Suite D6 (yes, we moved from Suite E7!)



Photo by Etcha via Wikipedia

Yummy and Healthy Summer Snacks for Kids! 🍉🍓

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy delicious and nutritious snacks! Here are some kid-approved ideas to keep them fueled and happy:

🍓Fruit Kabobs: Skewer a mix of their favorite fruits for a fun and colorful treat.

🥕 Veggie Sticks and Hummus: Crunchy veggies like carrots and cucumbers with tasty hummus.

🍇Frozen grapes: Just remove stems, rinse, dry, freeze, and enjoy! Cut in half for little ones.

Frozen bananas: cut into “coins,” dip in dairy-free yogurt and freeze for an extra special treat!

Keep snack time fun and healthy this summer! 🌈

—

🗓️Need to make an appointment? Evening, virtual and concierge appointments are available upon request.
Phone: (631) 314-8317
Email: [email protected]

Welcoming patients in Huntington and Hampton Bays:
Mondays, Tuesdays & Thursdays in Huntington:
📍33 Walt Whitman Road (just north of the mall),
🚪Suite 135W (use WEST entrance)

Wednesdays in Hampton Bays:
📍186 (sign from road says 182) West Montauk Highway,
🚪Suite D6 (yes, we moved from Suite E7!)

🇺🇸 Happy Independence Day! 🇺🇸

As we celebrate our nation’s freedom, let’s also celebrate the health and happiness of our little ones. Enjoy your BBQs, parades, and fireworks, and remember to practice safety first.

In observance of the 4th of July, the office will be closed on July 4th and 5th, and will reopen on Monday, July 8th.

Have a wonderful 4th and an amazing holiday weekend! 🎇✨
—

🗓️Call or email to schedule a FREE 15-minute consultation. Evening, virtual and concierge appointments are available upon request.
Phone: (631) 314-8317
Email: [email protected]

We Are Open!
Mondays & Wednesdays in Hampton Bays:
📍186 (sign from road says 182) West Montauk Highway,
🚪Suite D6 (yes, we moved from Suite E7!)

Tuesdays, Thursdays & Fridays in Huntington:
📍33 Walt Whitman Road (just north of the mall),
🚪Suite 135W (use WEST entrance)

☀️ Keeping our kids safe in the sun is easy with these simple tips:

1️⃣ Use Sunscreen: Choose a mineral-based broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher. Reapply every 2 hours, or more often if swimming or sweating.
2️⃣ Wear Protective Clothing: Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts, and wide-brimmed hats provide extra protection.
3️⃣ Seek Shade: Avoid direct sunlight between 10 AM and 4 PM when UV rays are strongest.
4️⃣ Sunglasses: Protect those eyes with sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays.

Enjoy the sunshine safely! 🌼🌊

—

🗓️Call or email to schedule a FREE 15-minute consultation. Evening, virtual and concierge appointments are available upon request.
Phone: (631) 314-8317
Email: [email protected]

We Are Open!
Mondays & Wednesdays in Hampton Bays:
📍186 (sign from road says 182) West Montauk Highway,
🚪Suite D6 (yes, we moved from Suite E7!)

Tuesdays, Thursdays & Fridays in Huntington:
📍33 Walt Whitman Road (just north of the mall),
🚪Suite 135W (use WEST entrance)

Here's a nice follow-up from our March 15th post (see second photo). I received this email from G's Mom the other day:

---
He did it!!!! G just got called off the waitlist for The United States Coast Guard Academy!!! …We are so proud and excited - AR, Long Island, NY
---

I share in Mom's excitement, joy, and pride! Congratulations G, on a job well done!

🌞 Summer has arrived! 🌞

It’s time for outdoor adventures and making memories. Here are some ways to keep your children healthy and happy this season:

🧴 Apply sunscreen to protect from UV rays - mineral based sunscreens are best! Avoid chemicals like oxybenzone.
🏊‍♂️ Supervise water activities for safety - encourage swimming lessons!
🥗 Opt for healthy, refreshing snacks - this is the season for melons and berries!
💧 Keep everyone hydrated with plenty of fluids - filtered water is best. Ask me about our new reverse osmosis system in the office!

Have a wonderful summer, filled with fun and health!

—

Take advantage of our free 15-minute phone consultation! Schedule one as soon as tomorrow!
Phone: (631) 314-8317
Email: [email protected]

Evening, virtual and concierge appointments are available upon request.