
There's a common misconception that elderly men are the only ones with low testosterone or imbalanced hormones. According to the Cleveland Clinic, however, data shows that many men including men in their 40s and 50s suffer from low testosterone and sub-optimal testosterone around the world.. The truth is you don't have to be on your "last legs" to suffer from low testosterone.
In reality, as men get closer to 30, it's common for their testosterone levels to drop. When that happens, their lives and bodies change. Life may not seem as colorful or as exciting. Getting out of bed without aches and pains is rare. Finding the motivation to get up, go to work, and come home with a pep in your step is easier said than done. And for many men, the ultimate embarrassment occurs - they lose the ability to perform intimately in the bedroom.
If you're one of the millions of men with unexplained fatigue, weight gain especially abdominal fat, inability to put on muscle in the gym, decreased mental sharpness, increased anxiety or even erectile dysfunction, you may think that all hope is lost. But nothing could be further from the truth. Thanks to decades of trials and research, male health centers like Proactive Wellness are equipped with cutting-edge, FDA-approved medications and procedures to restore your hormones to optimal levels. It's called testosterone replacement therapy, or TRT for short, and it's giving men around the country renewed hope for a normal, meaningful life.
But to understand the incredible benefits of TRT in Potomac, MD, it's important to know about testosterone and how it works in your body.
About Understanding Testosterone
What comes to mind when you think about the word "testosterone"? For many people, testosterone is associated with men who are overtly aggressive or macho. And while testosterone has an effect on a male's vigor and motivation, it plays a much more important role than the average person thinks. The truth about testosterone is that it is a crucial hormone for male development that affects men from the time they go through puberty to the time they pass away.
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As their primary androgen, testosterone helps men develop common male characteristics and is essential in the production of sperm. Controlled by your body's pituitary gland and hypothalamus, testosterone helps develop and maintain:

Muscle Mass

Facial and Body Hair

Sex Organs

Healthy Libido

Bone Density

Sexual Function

Healthy Red Blood Cell Levels
When low testosterone or hypogonadism occurs, however, males begin to notice concerning symptoms that often affect their everyday lives and romantic relationships.
Causes What Causes Low Testosterone?
Also called low T, lower testosterone levels are most often caused by aging. When testosterone levels deplete in this manner, it occurs naturally - just about every man will experience lower levels of testosterone as they get older. However, other causes of low T also exist, including drug abuse, obesity, prescribed meds, testicle injuries and even taking certain bodybuilding supplements.
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When men lose significant amounts of testosterone, it alters their body's levels of testosterone and estrogen. Lower T levels usually result in abdominal fat, which in turn causes estrogen synthetize levels to increase, creating even higher levels of estrogen in the body. With more estrogen and less testosterone, a number of concerning issues begin to surface. Some of the symptoms of low testosterone include:
- Erectile Dysfunction
- Lowered Libido
- Lowered Sperm Count
- More Body Fat
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Issues with Concentration
- Male Breast Development
- Less Muscle Mass
- Motivation Issues
If you're a man struggling with one or more of the symptoms above, it could be because you have low testosterone. But the only way you can find out for sure is to have your testosterone levels tested by a wellness center like Proactive Wellness. If your testosterone levels are low, TRT in Potomac, MD, may be the answer to your low-T problems.
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Understanding The Symptoms of Low Testosterone
Are you starting to notice that you don't feel like "you" when you're at home or at work? Do you feel tired and lethargic all the time, even in your free time away from the office? Many men mistake these symptoms for being too sleepy or too busy. But the truth is, they're suffering from low testosterone. Since no two males will have the same symptoms of low T, it's prudent to recognize and understand some of the most common signs:

Erectile Dysfunction
If there were two words that all men wish to avoid, it's these two. Being unable to perform in the most intimate moments isn't just embarrassing - it can affect long-term relationships and mental health. It's a difficult topic to talk about. But it doesn't have to be. Our experts are ready to help you re-light that special spark.

Low Libido
When you have low testosterone, sometimes the thought of having sex just isn't appealing. If you're one of the many men in the U.S. who lacks sex drive, it might not be you. I could be low testosterone. Don't settle for a mediocre sex drive - reclaim your vigor at Proactive Wellness Centers.

Lack of Sleep
Do you work hard every day and come home exhausted, only to find that you toss and turn all night long? Whether you have undiagnosed insomnia or another sleep disorder, it could be linked to low T.



Less Strength and Muscle Mass
When testosterone levels deplete as we age, men lose their ability to lift heavy items, even with weightlifting routines in the gym. If you're making a concerted effort to maintain your muscle mass and strength but aren't making gains, it could be due to low T.

Depression
Your brain is home to many testosterone receptors, but when your body has low T, it can affect your mood. With time, poor spirits can lead to serious psychological issues, like depression. However, studies show that TRT in Potomac, MD, can rebalance your hormones, which can help relieve depression and improve your mood.

Lack of Concentration
Do you find it hard to complete normal tasks when you're at work? Does it seem like your memory is fading? Does your spouse or significant other complain that you're not paying attention to them? The effects of low testosterone don't just affect your body - they can affect your mind and memory, too. When your testosterone levels are within normal range, brain fog and other concentration issues have been shown to go away.

What are the Risks of Living with Low Testosterone?
At Proactive Wellness Centers, we understand what men must go through daily when they have low testosterone. They suffer from fatigue and lack motivation and often don't feel like their usual selves. But as bad as those symptoms sound, living with low T can have more severe health risks that that put vital organs at risk. Some of the most concerning health risks you should be aware of include the following:
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Some of the most concerning health risks you should be aware of include the following:


Heart Health
If you've been told by a doctor that you have high blood pressure, you're probably wondering what it stems from. Is it aging? Is it hereditary? Is it something else? According to academic research, men with low T have a higher chance of developing cardiovascular illnesses. When testosterone levels are low, red blood cell reproduction suffers. When that happens, plaque buildup in your arteries may be accelerated. With time, plaque building can lead to very serious problems like strokes and heart attacks.

Anemia
When you have anemia, your body has a lack of or dysfunctional red blood cells, meaning your organs have less oxygen with which to function. Because testosterone has a role in healthy red blood cell production, it makes sense that men with low t have a higher risk of anemia. In fact, a 2009 study found that older men with low T are 5x more likely to be anemic than men with healthy levels of testosterone. While TRT in Potomac, MD, isn't a cure for anemia, it will help produce more red blood cells in your body, which can prevent anemia.

Diabetes
If you have been diagnosed with pre-diabetes or diabetes, and you're trying to figure out why, it may be linked to your T levels. That's because men with low testosterone have a greater chance of developing diabetes as they age. Similarly, men with diabetes are much more likely to have low testosterone, establishing a relationship between diabetes and testosterone. This relationship is further solidified by the fact that men with low T have a more challenging time resisting insulin. Though TRT won't cure diabetes, studies show that men with healthy testosterone levels also have healthier blood sugar levels and are often less obese.

Obesity
If you look in the mirror in the morning and can't stand how much body fat you've gained since getting older, you're not alone. Many aging men have problems with their waistlines. If you eat well and exercise regularly but still can't get rid of that unsightly stomach or body fat, the culprit may be low testosterone. Multiple studies have shown the link between obesity and low T. In fact, testosterone plays an important role in food metabolism by regulating insulin, glucose, and fat. Fortunately, when combined with diet and exercise, men who undergo TRT can often lose weight and enjoy improved blood glucose and low-density cholesterol levels.
Enjoy Life to the Fullest with TRT in Potomac, MD

Testosterone replacement therapy does precisely what it sounds like: It is a science-backed therapy that replaces low testosterone levels in men. The ultimate goal of TRT is to improve your life and well-being by balancing your hormones. Also referred to as androgen replacement therapy, TRT helps many men deal with and overcome the debilitating side effects of low T.
Originally developed by scientists in the 1930s, TRT has grown substantially in popularity over the years. Today, it is one of the most common and promising treatments for males with low testosterone.
How Does TRT Work?
Without getting too scientific, TRT works by providing your body with the testosterone it needs to function properly. Without healthy levels of testosterone, the male body can't maintain the natural processes it needs for overall health. In fact, men with low testosterone levels are more prone to serious health problems like type-2 diabetes and even heart disease. Until their T levels are restored to normal, most men suffer until they find a solution.
That's where TRT comes into play. With balanced hormones, your body can finally begin to heal, causing most symptoms of low t to diminish greatly.
The Proactive Wellness Approach to TRT in Potomac, MD
At Proactive Wellness Centers, our team utilizes a three-pronged approach to healing and treatment:
Patient Education. We equip you with the knowledge needed to take charge of your health and achieve optimal well-being in your life.
Prevention. We focus on preventing diseases by providing you with a thorough evaluation, which includes comprehensive diagnostics and the information you provide on your health history form.
Rejuvenation. Lastly, we work closely with you to implement a rejuvenation program consisting of several science-based treatments that aim to promote tissue regeneration, reduce cellular degeneration, foster healing, and slow your aging process.
Because no two patients ever have the exact same needs and treatment, your journey to journey to optimal health will be unique and tailored to your body.
However, to give you a brief snapshot of the average patient's TRT timeline may look like this:
Getting Started:
You contact our TRT clinic in Virginia. Based on your schedule, we'll arrange for a time for you to come in for your initial assessment.
Diagnostics and Evaluation:
One of our diagnostic experts will complete comprehensive testing to discover your testosterone and related hormone levels and your best treatment options.
Review Testing:
We'll sit with you one-on-one to discuss the results of your lab tests. During this session, a medical practitioner will also answer any questions you have about low T and testosterone replacement therapy.
Begin Your Custom TRT Regimen:
Based on your lifestyle, goals, and test results, we'll craft a custom TRT plan exclusively for you.
Success Coaching:
When you undergo TRT at Proactive Wellness Centers, you're never alone. We'll be by your side the entire way to ensure your treatment is going well and you're hitting your benchmarks. We'll keep track of your progress, and if there are areas that need improvement, we'll work with you to accomplish the goals you haven't achieved yet. Because, at the end of the day, a little bit of encouragement can go a long way.
Enjoy the Results:
This is the best part! With time and care, you'll begin to notice the effects of TRT and will be well on your way to enjoying balanced hormones.

Trust The Proactive Wellness Difference
Did you know that 13 million males suffer from low T, but a whopping 90% go untreated by doctors? The reason is that conventional doctors believe that unless your Testosterone level is below the low lab reference range level, that your are "OK". At Proactive Wellness, we help you to optimize and be the best you can be, not just OK. Why be OK, when with the help of the right Testosterone dose, you can feel better, be healthier, stronger and more vibrant. If you believe that your testosterone levels are at unhealthy levels, it's time to contact Proactive Wellness Centers for testing. Living with low testosterone is a risk, but with personalized TRT in Potomac, MD, you can minimize the harmful effects on your body.
Unlike other TRT clinics, we utilize a more complete and personalized approach to Testosterone Replacement Therapy. Our approach considers the role of DHEA, another very important hormone that needs to be balanced. And we look at Estradiol conversion, the unwanted effect where some men convert too much Testosterone to estradiol. In this case, these men (about 10%) need a medication to block this conversion, called an aromatase inhibitor. But notice that I mentioned that only 10% of men need this, but at many men's clinics, all men automatically get an aromatase inhibitor whether they need it or not. This drives Estradiol too low, causing other issues. Yes, Men need Estradiol also, but they need it in the proper proportion. Bottom line, our personalized approach ensures that you get exactly what you need, no more and no less.
Further, Proactive Wellness offers the widest range of Testosterone Replacement options so that men can choose the best for their particular lifestyle. Choose from pellets that are inserted just under the skin and last for 4-5 months, or the most popular option, Test Cypionate injections that are typically done weekly, or specialized transdermal cream or even a specialized intranasal application that mimics natural testosterone levels. Any of these methods are available at Proactive Wellness Centers so that you can get the option that is right for you.
Is testosterone replacement therapy enough? Maybe, it all depends on your goals and your lab results. Many men are also deficient in growth hormone (GH) and this hormone can also contribute to you not being your best. If this one is low, Proactive Wellness offers a range of Growth Hormone Releasing Hormone (GHRH) peptides to increase your GH levels. Many men combine this with TRT to feel their absolute best.
If you're ready to reclaim your confidence and return to loving life on your own terms, our physicians and medical team are ready to help. Don't be one of those men who constantly complain about their health but don't do anything about it. Contact Proactive Wellness Centers today to make a difference in your life!

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Latest News in Potomac, MD
Hunter's Bar And Grill In Potomac Acquired By MD Restaurateur
Potomac, MD Patchhttps://patch.com/maryland/potomac/hunters-bar-grill-potomac-acquired-md-restaurateur
Local restaurateur Adam Greenberg has acquired Hunter's Bar and Grill in Potomac, with plans to add his own twist to the restaurant's menu.Mark Hand, Patch Staff|Updated Wed, Aug 9, 2023 at 1:11 pm ETPOTOMAC, MD — Local restaurateur Adam Greenberg has acquired Hunter’s Bar and Grill in Potomac, with plans to add his own twist to the restaurant’s menu.Located at 10123 River Road in Potomac, ...
Local restaurateur Adam Greenberg has acquired Hunter's Bar and Grill in Potomac, with plans to add his own twist to the restaurant's menu.
Mark Hand, Patch Staff
|Updated Wed, Aug 9, 2023 at 1:11 pm ET
POTOMAC, MD — Local restaurateur Adam Greenberg has acquired Hunter’s Bar and Grill in Potomac, with plans to add his own twist to the restaurant’s menu.
Located at 10123 River Road in Potomac, Hunter’s Bar and Grill first opened as Hunter’s Inn in 1978. It then changed its name to Hunter’s Bar and Grill in 2014 under longtime owners Fred and Murray Berman’s leadership.
Over the course of their 20-plus years of ownership, the Berman brothers transformed Hunter’s into a Potomac staple, creating a welcoming atmosphere and leaving behind a rich legacy that Greenberg said he will seek to preserve.
The acquisition of Hunter’s adds a ninth currently operating restaurant to Greenberg’s company, Restaurant Zone Inc. Greenberg opened his first restaurant, the Cone Zone of Bethesda, in 1992. He then purchased Potomac Pizza in 1995, transforming the family pizza restaurant into a community hub.
Executive Chef Tennille “Chef Tee” Middleton, a graduate of Johnson & Wales University Culinary College and a contestant in the sixth season of Gordon Ramsay’s “Hell’s Kitchen,” will head kitchen operations.
Middleton, who has 15 years of executive chef experience, started as the executive chef of Greenberg’s College Park Grill in August 2022 and now oversees kitchen operations across all eight of Greenberg’s restaurants.
Dan Seaman will take over all day-to-day operations as general manager and contributing partner of Hunter’s Bar and Grill. Seaman has more than 20 years of restaurant experience and is currently the general manager of College Park Grill.
Greenberg’s team will maintain a majority of the restaurant’s current menu offerings, though they plan to work on improving current recipes and experimenting with new items based on customer feedback.
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A Luxe New Mediterranean Restaurant Hopes to Get Maryland Its First Michelin Star
Tierney Plumbhttps://dc.eater.com/2023/5/31/23742974/luxe-new-mediterranean-restaurant-maryland-michelin-star-coming-attractions
Alexandria-based Common Plate Hospitality (Mason Social, Urbano, Augie’s Mussel House, Junction Bistro) steps out of its casual comfort zone in July with the opening of an ambitious Potomac restaurant with gastronomic appeal.Nestled in the Cabin John Village shopping center, the Grove’s Mediterranean-hopping menu will showcase flavors and techniques synonymous with regions of coastal Spain, Italy, and Greece (7747 Tuckerman Lane, Potomac, M...
Alexandria-based Common Plate Hospitality (Mason Social, Urbano, Augie’s Mussel House, Junction Bistro) steps out of its casual comfort zone in July with the opening of an ambitious Potomac restaurant with gastronomic appeal.
Nestled in the Cabin John Village shopping center, the Grove’s Mediterranean-hopping menu will showcase flavors and techniques synonymous with regions of coastal Spain, Italy, and Greece (7747 Tuckerman Lane, Potomac, Maryland). Newly named executive chef Jose Lopez-Picazo is a huge fine-dining hire for Common Plate. Lopez-Picazo’s stateside cooking career kicked off in the late 1990s under José Andrés in D.C. and flourished across the U.S. in large Las Vegas roles at Aria’s Julian Serrano Tapas and the Bellagio’s French-Spanish showpiece Picasso, which earned two Michelin stars and the James Beard Award for outstanding restaurant during his time there.
Opening dishes under Lopez-Picazo’s watch include everything from grilled octopus with zesty lemon vinaigrette to succulent lamb shank slow-cooked in aromatic spices.
The Spanish-born graduate of the Madrid Cooking Institute worked under renowned chefs Maestro Manuel Tabares and Maestro Javier Otaaduy, mastering the art of seafood preparation, paellas, and sous-vide. More recently, he helped spearhead the opening of Fabio Trabocchi’s Spanish stunner Del Mar on the Southwest Waterfront.
“Bringing him in was a huge feather in our cap. He has the potential to win a Michelin star here,” Common Plate’s founder Chad Sparrow tells Eater. “We have the pedigree we need to get it done.” The Grove’s sous chef worked under chef Robert Wiedmaier, he adds.
Look for la carte dinner to start, followed by brunch and lunch. Sparrow doesn’t anticipate getting into the prix fixe game.
Common Plate’s original plan was to put another Augie’s in the 195-seat location that includes a 55-seat patio. But turns out a Belgian beer garden vibe wasn’t what Potomac customers were asking for. “We realized there’s nothing there to cater to a higher-end, fine-dining experience,” says Sparrow. “People don’t have to go to D.C. — we can offer that at the Grove.”
The Edens-owned shopping center is undergoing an extensive facelift that calls for new townhomes, office space, and a fresh wave of retail tenants (Georgetown’s French bakery Boulangerie Christophe expanded here last year). The Grove slides into a corner space that formerly housed Irish bar Lahinch Tavern and Grill. A full-scale renovation includes the addition of herringbone floors and a ceiling slathered in pinks, purples, and florals, joined by a massive wine rack stocked with Mediterranean varietals fit for the food. Lopez-Picazo plans to lean into local and seasonal ingredients all year.
Common Plate’s first-ever Maryland project is slated to arrive ahead of The Grove. Its anticipated Heights Food Hall near the Friendship Heights Metro, scheduled to open in late June, will feature a full-service restaurant (Urbano), full-service bar (The Heights Bar), speakeasy (The Turncoat), and eight local food stalls. That includes sushi and ramen from Vietnamese chef Kevin Tien, whose acclaimed Moon Rabbit suddenly closed at the Wharf this month. Newly named Lebanese tenant Yasmīne, born in Union Market last fall, comes from alums of Michelin-rated Maydan (5310Wisconsin Avenue, Chevy Chase, Maryland).
Maryland DNR warns of dangerous algae mats spotted in Montgomery County
wusa9.comhttps://www.wusa9.com/article/tech/science/environment/blue-green-algae-warning-montgomery-county-pet-safety/65-e13d8784-093b-472c-b4ec-ed473fccb6d7
The algae mats were detected in the Potomac River in the area from Edwards Ferry to Great Falls, officials said. Here's how to keep pets safe.MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Md. — The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) wants pet owners to be aware of dangerous algae mats spotted in the Potomac River. The algae mats were in the area from Edwards Ferry to Great Falls, and could be harmful to your pets, officials said.Pet owners are urge...
The algae mats were detected in the Potomac River in the area from Edwards Ferry to Great Falls, officials said. Here's how to keep pets safe.
MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Md. — The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) wants pet owners to be aware of dangerous algae mats spotted in the Potomac River. The algae mats were in the area from Edwards Ferry to Great Falls, and could be harmful to your pets, officials said.
Pet owners are urged to keep their animals out of the water in the affected area until further notice. The algae has the appearance of mats of fine, green cotton and can be found along the shoreline, attached to rocks or plants, on the bottom, or floating downstream.
While there is not a threat to human health, experts advise avoiding contact with these mats. Anyone who was in contact with the water recently and has any kind of illness or symptoms should seek medical attention, DNR officials warn.
"I definitely won’t have him in the water anymore, that’s for sure,” said Nathan Proctor, whose pit bull Tank was cooling off in the Potomac at Riley's Lock in Montgomery County.
"It’s just gotten really bad," said Frank Bailey of Germantown, who left his two St. Bernards, Rosie and Emma, at home in Germantown while he walked with his wife and friends along the river. Donna Bailey says the warnings have been out at Seneca Creek for weeks. "They say very clearly, don’t take your pets down there. Don’t go near the water,” she said.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Cyanobacteria, also called blue-green alga, are microscopic organisms that can be found naturally in all types of water. Sometimes cyanobacteria rapidly grow out of control, or bloom. The blooms can make toxins that are deadly to animals. The toxins can cause pets and livestock to become very sick and die within days or even hours after swallowing them.
“Neurological signs are the ones we are looking for. Tremors, drooling, twitching, just general malaise,” said Dr. Audrey Weaver, a veterinarian with Heart and Paw in Glen Mills, Pa.
“Vomiting is never normal. If they’re refusing dinner, then I would seek veterinary attention,” said Dr. Sage de Rosa, a University of Pennsylvania veterinarian.
The CDC says pets should not do any of the following in the area of a bloom:
Call a veterinarian if your animal shows any of these signs:
Contact Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 if you have questions about cyanobacterial toxin poisoning.
Call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 1-888-426-4435 with questions about your pet.
Maryland DNR says monitoring will continue, and the public will be updated once conditions improve in the area.
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Montgomery County man drowns in Potomac River on Fourth of July
Herald-Mail Mediahttps://www.heraldmailmedia.com/story/news/local/2023/07/05/germantown-man-drowns-in-potomac-river-near-harpers-ferry-on-july-4th/70383760007/
A Montgomery County, Md., man drowned in the Potomac River on the Fourth of July after trying to cross from the Maryland bank to a rock island, according to a Maryland Department of Natural Resources spokesman.The drowning victim was identified as Daniel Aldazabal Cucho, 44, of Germantown, Md., according to natural resources spokesman Gregg Bortz.North High baseball field gets amenity:...
A Montgomery County, Md., man drowned in the Potomac River on the Fourth of July after trying to cross from the Maryland bank to a rock island, according to a Maryland Department of Natural Resources spokesman.
The drowning victim was identified as Daniel Aldazabal Cucho, 44, of Germantown, Md., according to natural resources spokesman Gregg Bortz.
North High baseball field gets amenity:Tech High program sees students convert sea container into concession stand
Aldazabal Cucho and two companions were fishing on the Maryland bank when they tried to cross through the water to a rock island, Bortz wrote in an email. Aldazabal Cucho started yelling for help shortly after entering the river and slipped under the water. His two companions tried to reach him, but couldn't.
Potomac Valley Fire Co. and numerous other units were alerted to a water rescue call around 4:48 p.m. Tuesday at "The Point," which is where the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers merge, according to Fire Chief Roger Otzelberger Jr. and a post on the fire company's Facebook page.
Firefighters were told there were numerous calls about the incident and at least four people were involved, according to the Facebook post. Two people made it to shore with the help of bystanders, and firefighters were told two more people were still in the water.
Potomac Valley responded with at least two boats, with one crew helping another man get out of the river. Otzelberger said he believed that man tried to assist Aldazabal Cucho and got swept downstream. Rescuers picked him up by a retaining wall along the shore, where he couldn't get out of the water on his own.
The body of the drowning victim was recovered after emergency service officials searched for more than two hours, according to Potomac Valley's Facebook post.
Firefighters attempted life-saving measures and took Aldazabal Cucho to a medic waiting on the Jefferson County, W.Va., shore, according to Bortz's email. The man was pronounced dead on the shore.
The West Virginia medical examiner's office is investigating, according to Bortz.
'Treacherous' and 'deceiving' part of the Potomac River
Otzelberger said the group was not wearing personal floatation devices.
Otzelberger said the area where the two rivers converge is "very treacherous." But the water often looks calmer than everything around it, deceiving people into thinking it would be an easy swim.
The currents there go "every which way" and the depth of the water varies, he said.
Numerous rescue units respond to Potomac River incident
Also responding to the incident were a dive team from the New Market (Md.) Volunteer Fire Co., the Frederick County Division of Fire & Rescue Services with a drone, and a boat crew from First Hose Co. of Boonsboro's substation in Rohrersville, Otzelberger said.
Other units from Washington County, Frederick County and Jefferson County also responded, according to the Facebook post.
Seeking adventure, a 62-year-old woman kayaks the entire Potomac solo
Joe Heimhttps://www.washingtonpost.com/dc-md-va/2023/06/23/kayak-solo-potomac-grandmother-cathy-brennan/
...
Cathy Brennan glided through town this week attracting little attention. A heron or two glanced her way, and ospreys circled overhead. But as Washington whizzed around her in an impossible hurry, Brennan calmly paddled her bright yellow kayak down the Potomac and under Memorial Bridge, continuing the journey she began May 29 in Keyser, W.Va., near the source of the Potomac.
She hopes to complete the trip in a week or so when she reaches Chesapeake Bay.
It’s a slog. But it’s also beautiful. And it lets Brennan let go of everything else, empty her brain of the everyday and focus on the now.
“I’m in the moment. I’m looking at the chop, looking at the waves. I’m noticing that stuff,” says Brennan, whose voyage down the Potomac is just the latest of her epic solo trips on major waterways. She has kayaked the length of the Susquehanna, James, Hudson, Allegheny and Connecticut rivers and completed a two-month, 700-mile trip through New York, Canada and Maine on the Northern Forest Canoe Trail.
The Mississippi is on her wish list, says Brennan, who turns 63 next month and is awaiting the arrival of her third grandchild.
Potomac River levels dropping as drought expands across D.C. area again
On Thursday morning she sat on a sofa at the Washington Sailing Marina in Alexandria preparing to launch her nine-and-a-half-foot kayak on day 25 of the journey. They’re adventures, says Brennan, not vacations.
No glamping for her. It’s a minimalist approach: sleeping bag, small tent, rain jacket, change of clothes, first aid kit. Apples, granola bars, cheese sticks, ramen.
When she’s thirsty she scoops water from the rivers and pumps it through a filter. “I always drink the river,” she says.
Every few days Brennan will find a hotel for the night where she can get a shower and eat a cheeseburger. She’ll check in with her husband John, who has helped her select the river and research the trips at their New Jersey home. “He’s my virtual sherpa with benefits,” Brennan says, laughing. But most of her time is paddling on the river or camping on its banks.
She has a phone with her but rarely calls or texts anyone. She doesn’t listen to the news or podcasts or music. Occasionally Joni Mitchell lyrics will pop into her head. On some trips she’ll bring a slim book of poetry — Mary Oliver is a favorite — but she forgot to this time.
Her husband and her grown children can keep track of her via the transponder that pings them her location every 10 minutes or so, but she’s not sure how often they do. “I think they get bored of that now,” she said.
Brennan, an artist and photographer, is alone on these journeys but she isn’t lonely. If she has a message, it’s that we all need this disconnect from the wired world to find the wider world around us. And inside us.
After 66 years, a treasured store in Middleburg will shut its doors
When she made her first long trip at age 50 it was because she “decided to just go into the woods and think for a while.” That was the 700-mile excursion on the Northern Forest Canoe Trail. What she discovered was what she didn’t discover.
“I didn’t think any deep thoughts. I didn’t figure it all out. I didn’t come out like, woohoo, a Zen master,” Brennan said. “But it cleansed my palate. When I came out, I felt better. I felt confident. I felt clearer. I felt I had accomplished something.”
Staying the course, it turned out, was its own reward. She keeps a diary and blogs about her trips, but only after she’s completed them. Friends have told her to write a book but she isn’t sure what she’d say. Preaching isn’t really her thing.
But Brennan does say she wants women and girls to take more chances and to not be afraid. She knows that solo kayaking is not for everyone, and that many believe it is unsafe. But she’s not reckless. Brennan grew up on a lake and was a strong swimmer and boater from an early age. She portages around rough rapids and watches the weather carefully. Thunderstorms are her biggest concern.
There are other precautions. Brennan is careful about where she camps and who is around her. Bears don’t worry her, but she keeps a wary eye out for creepy men. She has packed up her gear and headed back out on the river when she has felt unsafe.
Nevertheless, she persists because she loves being on the rivers, seeing the bald eagles above, deer on the banks and a fascinating array of bugs and insects that never find their way into homes and offices. She wants others to see that, too. Especially women.
“Women, I think, are unreasonably afraid about being alone,” she said. “Sometimes people think [kayaking alone] is so dangerous. And I tell them I drive on the Garden State Parkway and the New Jersey Turnpike. In my estimation, that is far more dangerous than what I do.”
In the late morning Thursday, Brennan dragged her sturdy, 17-year-old Perception kayak down a paved path toward the marina landing. Nearby, kids in a sailing camp practiced deft turns in their colorful crafts on a damp, windy day. The waves slapped hard at the dock.
It took just a few minutes for Brennan to cram her gear into the kayak, put on a life preserver, roll up her pant legs, slide the boat into the water and clamber in. Then a quick wave goodbye. In moments she was gliding away, following the current, seeking solitude, attracting little attention.
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