September/October 2006

Nan's Note

From Your No. 1 Health Advocate

Do you feel it? The colors, the rhythms, the changes of fall.

For me, fall is renewal. It takes me back to breaking in new lace-up, standard-issue, brown shoes each grade-school year. I would promise myself I'd be more organized and focused after the lazy summer season. (Maybe if I organized my three-ring binder with more colors and tabs….) Today, for my children, it means another year of learning, coping, and growing. And for me, it means a fresh start on getting to know them as they mature. I love fall for its transitions, challenges, and great optimism.

This welcoming attitude to change is just what former Will & Grace star Megan Mullally is embracing as she embarks on a new career as a talk show host. What will her unique angle be? Find out in our cover story, and join us in applauding her celebration of creativity and its role in our overall health and happiness.

Back-to-school season also reminds us that millions of our children are struggling with what seems to be a diagnostic epidemic: attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD. Its symptoms, to some people, seem to be simply the characteristics of being a kid. But for children who truly have this condition, ADHD is anything but "normal." For concerned parents and others, we provide some up-to-date insights and helpful guidelines about ADHD.

You'll find more inspiration in our WebMD Checkup: Newly retired Pittsburgh Steeler Jerome Bettis succeeded as an athlete with a health challenge that could have sidelined him from the get-go. Learn how Sunday Night Football in America's newest commentator coped with his condition—and thrived.

Whether fall for you is back-to-school family time, back to a full work schedule, or no different at all from summer (except for the weather), we at WebMD invite you to check out our own transitions at www.WebMD.com --- your touchstone for the latest health news and information. From cancer, diabetes, hypertension, insomnia, and back pain to pregnancy, parenting, relationships, aging, beauty, balance, energy, weight, food, and fitness, WebMD.com is now even better and more personally relevant. Stay tuned as we unveil new online features, expanded Health Guides, and a revamped home page over the next few months.

Our site is here for every part of your life. When you are passionate about living, there's a place that shares that passion—WebMD.com.

Yours in well-being,

Nan-Kirsten Forte, MS
Editor in Chief, WebMD the Magazine