Dear JABBERS: As part of our ongoing celebration of National Volunteer Month, we shine our spotlight on Heather Geronemus, a young professional committed to community service in South Florida and the driving force behind the 3rd Annual Walk Like MADD & MADD Dash Fort Lauderdale 5K fundraiser.

Heather's leadership role with Ft. Lauderdale's Mothers Against Drunk Driving chapter has captured the attention of the media and the admiration of the organization. She joined MADD in 2009, following the death of her father, local nephrologist Dr. Robert Geronemus, who was killed by a drunk driver in a car-on-pedestrian hit-and-run in Miami, days before his 61st birthday. "MADD provided support I didn't even know I needed, from helping me cope with the loss to accompanying me to the trial of my father's killer." To spread awareness of drunk driving and MADD's work in victim support and prevention, she established and chaired the first Walk Like MADD & MADD Dash Fort Lauderdale in her father's honor in 2011, sharing her personal tragedy, building a public awareness campaign and raising $50,000. Heather's love of fitness inspired her to add a competitive 5K race ~ the Dash ~ to the event, tripling attendance. This element is being replicated in select cities across the country. "While I know nothing will bring my father back, my work with MADD has the power to save other people from the pain my family has gone through. Turning a tremendous negative into something positive helps me cope and motivates me every day."

Heather is a life-long volunteer, raised in a family that considered it a priority and implementing those lessons in school (she attended NYU) and in her business (with Weston-based technology company Ultimate Software). In addition to her work with MADD, she volunteers with the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Broward's Ghost Light Society and the Alumni Advisory Council for Pine Crest School. "This is definitely not my other life. It's my whole life!"

Thank you for sharing your life with us, Heather.  

Happy Volunteering and Happy JABBING!

JustAskBoo Deal of the Day! 

From SCS Weightloss  

April showers bring May sundresses, short-shorts and bikinis! Get ready to show more skin and a lean body with the help of SCS WeightLoss System. JABBERS receive $75 OFF any weight loss program. Call 954.640.9222 TODAY to get started on your sensational summer body!*

A Tempered Approach
Our ten-year-old son has always had trouble controlling his temper and it only seems to be getting worse. He expresses his anger at home by kicking, hitting, shoving, and verbal abuse. Do you know a child psychologist or program in the north Broward/south Palm Beach area that addresses anger management issues in children? All referrals are welcome an appreciated. Thank you.

Take a Brow
I am looking for an expert at shaping eyebrows ~ not just a thorough plucker, but someone who will thoughtfully shape them to my face. I know of an amazing woman in Miami, but it's too far to travel. I have tried Macy's Brow Center at Town Center, but would like to explore other places as well. Please help! I am in Parkland.

Nip/Tuck for Nana
I am searching for the best plastic surgeon in the area for a facelift. I'd like someone who works with older women looking for natural results. Thanks!

Inspired by Heather's story, JustAskBoo Ft. Lauderdale editor and walking enthusiast Rachael Hodyno will represent Team JAB at this year's 3rd Annual Walk Like MADD & MADD Dash Fort Lauderdale 5K fundraiser, on Sunday, April 28, at Huizenga Park.  If you are interested in joining Rachael "for a walk and some JAB," please email her HERE.

Eyes on LASIK
I am researching to see whether my daughter is a candidate for LASIK eye surgery. She has severe astigmatism so I'm not sure if she would qualify for this surgery or another non-invasive correction. Has anyone had LASIK surgery that corrected their astigmatism? If you had a positive experience with a group, I'd love to hear about it. Thanks for any suggestions or advice!

Learn to Swim in Five Days, Guaranteed Results!
As a parent, I know it's scary to think about your child around a pool when they can't swim. But as a swim instructor with over 30 years experience, I know just what it takes to teach them. I guarantee that your little one will learn to swim in five lessons - or you can return for free. In the heated pool at Westminster Academy, I offer group lessons in a 5:1 student to teacher ratio, and private lessons at our pool or yours. I always teach my own lessons, at rates much lower than you'll be able to find elsewhere. To learn more, visit my website HERE.*

The Simple Life
After the Miami city life, I am yearning to get back to the country! This single, professional, non-smoker would love to rent a mother-in-law or small house on your property. A horsewoman, I would be willing to care for your pets and horses while you are away. I look forward to hearing from you!

Vying for a Vehicle
I am searching for a scooter or a commuter car for my husband to take to and from our local Tri-Rail station in Ft. Lauderdale. If you have one to sell or know someone who does, please let me know!

Commend Your Carpet Cleaner!
My elderly parents have a few area rugs that need cleaning. Can you recommend a service in or around Lauderdale-By-The-Sea? Thanks!

Brand New Lee Sofa for Sale
Brand new (still wrapped) Lee sofa in a neutral Kravet fabric. Back and seat cushions are constructed of foam core wrapped in down. Very comfortable and deep, but still holds its shape. 92" long, 42" deep, and 38" high. A very versatile sofa. Asking $1800.00. If interested, please call 954.303.9519.**

Do You Have a Candidate for JAB Spotlight?
From Team JAB
Do you know a JABBER who has been honored with an award in their professional field, shown extraordinary dedication to help the less fortunate, or made a notable contribution to Broward County? JABBERS, we want to know about it.  Send us your nominations HERE, and let us shine a bright JAB Spotlight on their impact in a future issue of JustAskBoo Ft. Lauderdale.