Wednesday, April 29, 2026
Hume Senior Spotlight, Nick Coker
Nick has made a meaningful impact this year through volunteering at Hume Alliance Ministry and City Hall, where his dedication has truly made a difference in our community.He also completed a job shadow with Pettit Pure Air LLC, over Christmas break, gaining valuable hands-on experience.
After graduation, Nick plans to work with the Missouri Job Center and complete an on-the-job training program. He is going to be a great asset to the workforce!
We’re proud of you, Nick, and excited for what’s ahead.
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Butler business focuses on local talent
Workx26 is a new business in Butler locally owned and operated by Butler resident Tom Stock, former owner of Café Affogato.
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Attention Hume area residents
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Understanding the Long-Term Health Effects of Sexual Trauma
Sexual trauma is something no one should have to experience, but it happens more often than many people realize. According to national data, millions of people in the United States have experienced sexual violence at some point in their lives. And while the emotional impact may be talked about, the long-term health effects are less understood.
Both the mind and body can be affected by sexual trauma, and the effects can last for years if they aren’t addressed. Here are some symptoms to look out for, as well as what you can do to help improve your physical and emotional health.
How Sexual Trauma Affects Mental Health
One of the most common long-term effects is ongoing stress. After a traumatic event, the body stays on high alert. Over time, this can lead to conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder, depression and anxiety.
You might notice symptoms such as:
- Trouble sleeping or frequent nightmares
- Flashbacks or unwanted memories
- Feeling numb or disconnected
- Mood swings or irritability
- Loss of interest in things you once enjoyed
If these symptoms last more than a few weeks or begin to interfere with daily life, talk to a health care professional. Help is available and healing is possible.
Physical Health Can Also Be Affected
Trauma doesn’t just live in the mind. It can show up in the body as well. Research shows that people who have experienced sexual violence may have higher rates of chronic pain, headaches and digestive problems.
Long-term stress can raise blood pressure and increase the risk of heart disease. Some survivors also struggle with changes in appetite, sleep problems and difficulty managing weight. There may also be gynecologic or sexual health concerns, including pelvic pain or difficulty with intimacy.
Regular medical care is important, even if talking about past trauma feels uncomfortable. You can tell your provider only what you feel ready to share.
Signs Something May Be Wrong
It can be hard to connect current health problems to past trauma. But certain signs may suggest that deeper support is needed. These include:
- Ongoing sadness or hopelessness
- Panic attacks
- Avoiding certain places or situations
- Chronic physical symptoms with no clear cause
- Thoughts of self-harm (if you have thoughts of harming yourself, seek help right away by calling or texting 988)
Steps You Can Take to Protect Your Health
Healing looks different for everyone, but these steps can support your mental and physical health:
- Speak with a licensed therapist. Treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy and trauma-focused therapy have been shown to help reduce symptoms.
- Prioritize healthy habits. Getting enough sleep, eating balanced meals, staying physically active, managing stress, limiting alcohol use and keeping up with routine medical visits can all help keep you healthier.
- Remember that you aren’t alone. Support groups and trusted friends or family members can provide connection and understanding. National organizations offer confidential resources and hotlines if you aren’t ready to talk to someone you know personally.
Sexual trauma can have long-term health effects, but it doesn’t define your future. With the right care and support, many people go on to live healthy and meaningful lives. Reaching out for help is a powerful step toward healing.
Copyright 2026 © Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Health eCooks® Heart Healthy Recipes® is a registered trademark of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein without the express approval of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. is strictly prohibited.
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Tuesday, April 28, 2026
Weekly report from the Henry County Sheriff's Office
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Notice regarding resurfacing of 2 highway near Harrisonville
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Obituary - Edward Lee Umphenour
Edward Lee was a man with a recognizable voice and has been referred to as the voice of Linn County. He was born to Edward and Katherine Dunavan Umphenour on Oct. 5, 1943 at their rural home in Pleasanton, Ks. He was the oldest of 7 children. Edward Lee went to a country school, Green Valley, through the 8th grade. He then attended high school in Pleasanton where he graduated in 1961. Following high school Edward Lee attended Kansas School of Business where he received an associates degree.
Funeral Service will be held at 10:00 am, Friday, May 1 at the Pleasanton Christian Church. Visitation will be from 5:00pm to 7:00 pm, Thursday, April 30 at the Schneider Funeral Home, Pleasanton, Kansas. Burial will be in the Littell Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to the Linn County Fair Tractor Pull and may be sent in care of the funeral home to Schneider Funeral Home P.O. Box 525 Pleasanton, Kansas 66075. Online condolences may be left at www.schneiderfunerals.com
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Obituary - Melissa Brown
Additional family information and service information will be announced at a later date, courtesy Ferry Funeral Home.
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