Hello all!
Spring is springing!
And with it comes our April newsletter, full of timely, and we hope practical, health topics, Dr. Jackie Phillips addresses one of the most common questions she’s been hearing lately — vegetarian nutrition — with a reassuring, balanced guide for families at any stage of plant-based eating. She breaks down the protein myths, the nutrients to watch, and the simple kitchen habits that make it all manageable. Dr. Angela Jiang dives into an exciting advancement in breast cancer screening: contrast-enhanced mammography (CEM). If you’ve ever been told you have dense breast tissue or received an unclear mammogram result, this is a must-read — the latest research suggests CEM may detect cancers at nearly four times the rate of ultrasound, earlier and more treatable. Finally, Dr. Alan Spira reminds us that warm weather has also brought out rattlesnakes, including in our local open spaces. With two recent deaths in Southern California, this is a timely refresher on prevention, recognition, and the do’s and don’ts of first response.
Did you note a new author in The Village Doctor newsletter? Indeed, I am excited to share that we have a fantastic new physician who will be joining the TVD team! Dr. C. Angela Jiang is a board-certified Family Medicine physician who will be joining The Village Doctor after nine years on faculty at Stanford University, where she served as Medical Director for Stanford Family Medicine and was honored with both the Department of Medicine Teaching Award and Faculty of the Year. She completed her training at Duke, the University of Illinois, and Stanford. Dr. Jiang is fluent in Mandarin and has special interests in women’s health, adolescent health, and primary care procedures. I am thrilled to have her bringing her exceptional expertise to concierge care at The Village Doctor!
Finally, in our The Village Square section, I’m proud to spotlight one of our own — pancreatic cancer survivor Cathy, who will be walking in PanCAN PurpleStride on Saturday, April 25th. Please join me in supporting her and this important cause. Here is the link to Cathy’s personal fundraising page.
In health,
Eric
Eric Weiss, MD, DTM&H, March 2026
The Balanced Green Plate: A Family Guide to Vegetarian Nutrition
Thinking about going vegetarian—for yourself or your kids? A well-planned plant-based diet can be healthy and balanced, but it’s important to focus on smart substitutions rather than simply removing meat. Protein is rarely a concern if you include a variety of sources, such as beans, grains, soy, and seeds. Key nutrients to watch include vitamin B12, iron, and omega-3s, which may require fortified foods or supplements. Pairing foods strategically (like iron with vitamin C) helps absorption. With a little planning, vegetarian diets can support energy, growth, and long-term health for all ages.
Thinking About a Contrast-Enhanced Mammogram? Here’s What Patients Are Asking
If you’ve been told you have dense breast tissue, standard mammograms can sometimes miss small cancers. A newer option, contrast-enhanced mammography (CEM), combines a regular mammogram with contrast dye to highlight areas of concern, making tumors easier to detect. Recent research shows CEM can find significantly more cancers—and often at earlier stages—than ultrasound alone. While it offers improved detection, it does involve contrast, slightly higher radiation, and more follow-up imaging. For many women, CEM provides a valuable middle ground between traditional mammograms and MRI. Talk to your doctor to see if it’s right for you.
Rattlesnakes are Rising
Recent rattlesnake bite deaths in Southern California are a reminder to stay alert outdoors—even in suburban areas. While bites are uncommon and rarely fatal, they can be serious without prompt care. Most occur during warmer months and are often provoked. Symptoms can include immediate pain, swelling, and, in severe cases, systemic effects like bleeding or shock. If bitten, call 911, stay calm, and seek medical care immediately—avoid outdated first aid methods like tourniquets or ice. With early treatment, including antivenom, outcomes are typically excellent. Simple precautions can help you stay safe while enjoying the outdoors.
I’d like to take a moment to share something close to my heart — and to introduce you to one of our own.
Cathy is a pancreatic cancer survivor, and on Saturday, April 25th, she’ll be taking steps at PanCAN PurpleStride, the ultimate walk to end pancreatic cancer. This cause means a great deal to her personally, and watching her channel her experience into advocacy for others is something I find deeply moving. She writes:
“I’m taking steps at PanCAN PurpleStride, the ultimate walk to end pancreatic cancer, on Saturday, April 25, 2026.
As you know, this event and cause are important to me. When you donate to my fundraiser, you’re helping those affected by pancreatic cancer now and in the future get the resources and support they need through PanCAN Patient Services.
With 15 days until the event, and am 40% away from hitting my goal of $30,000. Please help me make my goal by making a donation today. It only takes a few moments, and your gift can change the future for those affected by pancreatic cancer.
As I write you, I just finished my third of four cancer infusion treatments for a recurrence of pancreatic cancer. The new treatment uses radioactive isotopes to target the tumors, with the hope the growth will remain stable for the next two to three years. While I am grateful that I am a 24-year survivor, this cancer will not leave me alone. I’ve had numerous recurrences over the past two decades. Thanks to advances in pancreatic cancer research, I’ve benefited from new treatments. So there is a very personal reason for why I support PanCan.
Every dollar helps, and you can use a credit card, Apple Pay, or Venmo. Just visit my Personal Fundraising Page using the link below and donate today.
Thank you for your support over the past many years.
With gratitude,
Cathy”
When you donate to Cathy’s fundraiser, you’re helping people affected by pancreatic cancer — both today and in the future — access the resources and support they need through PanCAN Patient Services.
I hope you’ll join me in supporting her — every contribution makes a difference. You can find her personal fundraising page here.
Thank you, as always, for the kindness you show one another.
Yours, in health and resilience,
Eric and the TVD MD team…
The information contained in this newsletter is provided for general informational and education purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or another qualified healthcare provider to discuss whether any treatment, medication, or information is appropriate for you, and for guidance on any emerging updates in care. Never disregard or delay seeking medical advice based on the information provided here.
