Adventist HealthCare & You Magazine (Winter 2023)

ADVENTIST HEALTHCARE AWARDS NURSING STUDENTS

THREE $20,000 LUCY BYARD SCHOLARSHIPS

Adventist HealthCare has selected three nursing students for its first Lucy Byard Scholarships. The students each received $20,000 and can apply for an additional $20,000 next year if they continue to meet academic requirements.

Adventist HealthCare created the scholarship to help address racial and economic disparities in education and healthcare and to honor lessons from Lucy Byard, who in 1943 was denied care at the Washington Sanitarium, the precursor to Adventist HealthCare White Oak Medical Center, because she was black. This scholarship is part of a set of equity, diversity and inclusion initiatives at Adventist HealthCare.

The inaugural Lucy Byard Scholarship recipients are:

• Tianna Lawrence, Howard University

• Erica Martell, Stratford University

• Junior Philogene, Washington Adventist University

All three recipients have overcome tremendous obstacles to achieve their dream of helping others, and all three are pursuing healthcare careers to uplift others and give back to their communities.

“We look forward to learning how their dedication and devotion to their community and their patients changes lives,” said Terry Forde, president and CEO of Adventist HealthCare.

To learn more about the scholarship program, visit AHCYou.com/W23Scholars.

SHADY GROVE STUDIES NEW WAY TO FIND BRUISES ON DARK SKIN

Shady Grove Medical Center is one of two hospitals in the nation researching the use of alternate light sources (ALS) to improve the detection and documentation of bruises across all skin tones.

The research is a potential breakthrough in detecting and prosecuting abuse cases in people of various races and ethnicities. Shady Grove’s Forensic Medical Unit (FMU) is partnering with Katherine Scafide of George Mason University on the research. Using ALS, Scafide and her team analyzed 2,903 bruises on adults representing six different skin color groups.

Bruising is more difficult to detect and document in individuals with darker skin tones, but using ALS helped detect bruising during the first few days after injury, research found.

Now, researchers are working on using the findings to develop an evidence-based practice program, and Shady Grove’s FMU will be one of these program implementation study sites.

Shady Grove’s FMU nurses offer confidential care to victims of assault, abuse, neglect or human trafficking. Learn more at AHCYou.com/W23Help. Hear FMU director Jessica Volz discuss the unit’s work on the AHC & You podcast at AHCYou.com/W23Listen.

Scholarship winners, from left, Tianna Lawrence, Erica Martell and Junior Philogene with Adventist HealthCare president and CEO Terry Forde.

Need a Heart Specialist? WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Your heart is the size of your two hands clasped together. It’s an amazing muscle that beats 100,000 times a day and pumps blood through 60,000 miles of blood vessels. It’s critically important to treat your heart well, and seeing your doctor regularly is a good step in preventing heart disease.

Daisy F. Lazarous, MD, a cardiologist and director of the Women’s Cardiovascular Program at Adventist HealthCare, answers common questions about what to expect when you see a heart specialist.

Q:

How do you know it’s time to see a cardiologist?

Dr. Lazarous: Your primary care doctor can help you know if there’s a reason to see a cardiologist. For instance, certain factors may put you at a higher risk for heart disease and stroke. Additionally, you can discuss with your doctor whether you should schedule an appointment with a cardiologist if you experience or have any of the following:

• Chest pain, which can be a sign of heart attack. Call 911 if you think you are having a heart attack.

• High blood pressure

• Diabetes

• High cholesterol

• Shortness of breath, fast beating, pounding or fluttering heart or dizziness

• Kidney disease

• Peripheral arterial disease

• Family history of heart disease

• History of smoking

Q: What can you expect at an appointment with

a cardiologist?

Dr. Lazarous: A cardiologist will do a physical exam that includes listening to your heart. The doctor will ask you about any symptoms, medical history and family history and will be interested in your weight, blood pressure, cholesterol levels, blood glucose or sugar levels, medications, exercise and diet. This information and any test results will allow the cardiologist to make a diagnosis so that you can better understand your risk for heart problems and manage those risks with your doctor’s help. The cardiologist may order medication, suggest healthier eating and increased exercise or schedule additional tests.

Q: There are many types of cardiologists. How do I know which one to see?

Dr. Lazarous: Cardiologists are experts in understanding your heart and blood vessels. Some have a specialized expertise in a medical or surgical area of heart care. Your primary care doctor can recommend the specialist that’s right for you.

• General Cardiologist: This doctor specializes in diagnosing and treating heart and vascular conditions and plays a key role in helping you manage your risk factors. If needed, a medical cardiologist also coordinates your care with other doctors and surgeons.

• Interventional Cardiologist: This doctor specializes in heart procedures, not surgery, using a tiny wire called a catheter to diagnose and treat heart conditions like coronary artery disease and valve disease. Procedures are done in the cardiac catheterization or cath lab.

• Electrophysiologist: This doctor specializes in diagnosing and treating heart rhythm problems. You may see an electrophysiologist if you have an irregular heartbeat condition, such as A-fib. Electrophysiologists perform catheter ablation and implant pacemakers and cardioverter defibrillators.

• Heart Failure Specialist: This doctor has training and expertise managing symptoms and delaying heart failure.

• Cardiac Surgeon: This doctor will work with you and your cardiologist and will perform heart surgery.

Make an appointment with a cardiologist at AHCYou.com/W23Heart .

TIPS TO KEEP YOUR HEART HEALTHY

1. Learn your risk for heart disease with our free, fast quiz at AHCYou.com/W23Risk

2. See your primary care doctor or cardiologist to discuss your risk.

3. Take to heart your doctor’s recommendations and work to eat healthier, exercise more and quit smoking.

Getting Ready for Baby

Are you thinking about starting or growing your family this year? This is a big step in your and your partner’s life, and there are ways you can prepare physically and mentally.

LEARN from our experts at Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center and White Oak Medical Center about how you can get ready for every part of your pregnancy journey, from beginning to end.

BEFORE PREGNANCY

Hope Mitchell, RN Outpatient Care Navigator and certified Lamaze Childbirth Educator, Shady Grove Medical Center

“To step into this new chapter of life changes one’s mindset, so be prepared mentally, emotionally and physically. It’s OK to talk to a counselor beforehand to mentally prepare and ensure you’re not moving on the wrong emotions.

“Make sure you keep up with your annual physical and routine exercise, so your body is in the best shape and health to maintain a healthy pregnancy.”

DURING YOUR PREGNANCY

Abi Akinwande, RN Labor and Delivery nurse, White Oak Medical Center

“Be aware of the changes going on in your body and be comfortable letting your doctor know if you are experiencing any discomforts or pain. Be sure to let them know as soon as you notice any patterns.

“To help you feel comfortable before you deliver, I recommend visiting the hospital you plan to deliver at when possible. See if they offer tours or have classes or resources available. Many hospitals offer birthing, breastfeeding and newborn care classes.”

AFTER DELIVERY

Yensy

Gonzalez, RN Lactation Consultant, White Oak Medical Center

“When you’re in the hospital, we strive to support you, so don’t be afraid to ask your care team any questions when it comes to you or your baby.

“Be patient if baby isn’t doing certain things such as latching on or breastfeeding well right away. It is a learning process for you and baby. Our Birth Centers offer lactation consultants that are here for you.”

Judy Levy-Stutsky Clinical Health Education Coordinator, Shady Grove Medical Center

“After your baby comes, remember all firsttime parents are and feel like novices. You are also giving birth to a new person – a bit of both of you but with their own personality. Your baby is a new being operating only on instincts with limited communication.

“You will have to figure out what your baby needs whenever they say they need help. It’s the toughest job you’ll ever love.“

Expecting and need more guidance?

Ask one of our Birth Center experts at AHCYou.com/W23Baby .

SHADY GROVE’S NEW PATIENT TOWER By the Numbers

The Rockville, Maryland hospital is bringing next-level care in its new building, which breaks ground this winter.

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• Inpatient units: Intensive Care Unit (ICU), Progressive Care Unit (PCU), Medical/Surgical Unit (MED/SURG)

• Emergency department (E.D.)

• Cardiovascular Interventional Radiology (CVIR) lab

• Rooftop helipad

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4 MAIN BUILDING COMPONENTS: STORIES

(plus a mechanical penthouse)

GOALS GUIDED DESIGN:

• Staff efficiency and patient safety, using Lean methodology, full-size room mock-ups, and evidence-based design

• Enhanced experience for patients, families and caregivers, incorporating natural light and soothing areas for outdoor respite

• Environmental sustainability, exceeding standards for efficiency and sustainability in elements such as lighting, use of local materials and a green roof.

4 E.D. TRIAGE ROOMS

156,000 square feet of new construction

74 TOTAL BEDS

34 E.D. TREATMENT BAYS

3 CVIR ROOMS

(INCLUDES 1 BIPLANE IMAGING MACHINE)

Busting Healthcare Myths

The Truths Our Doctors Want You to Know

THERE’S a lot of health misinformation out there. We’ve gathered some of the most common myths our doctors have heard to help you set the record straight for a healthy new year. Read on to get the facts.

MYTH: SIGNIFICANTLY CUTTING CALORIES IS EFFECTIVE FOR WEIGHT LOSS.

Fact: Radically reducing the calories you eat in a day may lead to binge eating and other negative changes in your overall health. We’ve all seen various celebrities and influencers talk about weight loss through a heavily restricted diet or cleanses, but starvation techniques aren’t healthy and won’t lead to long-term weight loss success. Eating a well-balanced diet, getting regular exercise and making other lifestyle changes can lead to long-term weight loss.

MYTH: YOU NEED TO WORK OUT AT LEAST AN HOUR A DAY.

Fact: You need regular physical activity to help maintain good health, but not everyone can manage an hour-long workout every day. Fixating on that hour a day and debating whether it’s too much to fit in could derail any workout efforts. Remember, any activity is a good activity, even if it’s a 15-minute walk. For a healthy lifestyle, at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity a week is the recommendation, and you can break it up any way you can. Every little bit counts.

MYTH: THE FLU SHOT GIVES YOU THE FLU.

Fact: This is one of the most pervasive myths about vaccines. Flu vaccines are made with either an inactive flu virus or no virus at all, which means you do not get the flu from the vaccine. After a shot, there may be minor side effects such as low-grade fever, headache or muscle aches that mimic the flu, but they are not the flu and go away quickly. This is true also of COVID-19 vaccines. The vaccines available do not give you COVID-19.

MYTH: MENTAL ILLNESS IS A SIGN OF WEAKNESS.

Fact: Any illness is not a weakness, whether it’s physical or mental. We don’t expect those with a chronic illness such as diabetes or heart disease to just “shake it off” or deal with it. A mental

health condition is an illness and should be treated as such. Part of this myth includes the idea that those with a mental health condition can’t be successful. That is not true. Just as those with physical illnesses can be successful, so can those with mental illnesses, especially when they receive treatment.

MYTH: YOU SHOULD NOT SPEAK FREELY ABOUT YOUR MENTAL HEALTH AS YOU DO ABOUT YOUR PHYSICAL HEALTH.

Fact: Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. It can even impact your physical health. It’s very important to talk with your doctor about how you are doing both physically and mentally so they can help support you and find the best treatment options for any concerns.

MYTH: I HAVE NO CHEST PAIN, SO I DON’T HAVE HEART DISEASE.

Fact: There are subtle symptoms that you may not realize are related to heart disease, such as shortness of breath, lightheadedness, nausea, and discomfort in one or both arms, the jaw, neck or back. High blood pressure is another “silent” symptom. Regular checkups with your doctor can help identify issues early and prevent more serious complications, such as a heart attack or stroke.

MYTH: MEN AND WOMEN EXPERIENCE THE SAME HEART ATTACK SYMPTOMS.

Fact: The most common heart attack symptom for both men and women is chest pain, but women can experience other symptoms that may not seem like a heart attack. Some signs to look for are pain or pressure in the lower chest, pain in the upper back, jaw or neck, indigestion, and fatigue. The fact is women are more likely to die of a heart attack, are more often misdiagnosed and are not treated as aggressively as men. Women also have unique risk factors such as pregnancy, high stress levels and menopause that increase their chance of heart disease. That’s why it’s important for women to schedule regular check-ups and to talk with their doctors if they notice any changes in their health.

MYTH: I’M YOUNG AND HEALTHY. I DON’T NEED A PRIMARY CARE PROVIDER OR REGULAR CHECK-UPS.

Fact: One of the most important relationships you can have for better health is with a primary care doctor. Having a physician who gets to know you and can track any changes is important as you manage your health over time. A primary care provider can alert you when you need screenings for cancer, heart disease, diabetes and other health conditions. Those with more serious health problems under the care of specialists still need a primary care doctor to help manage their overall health.

MYTH: I DON’T NEED CANCER SCREENINGS IF I’M HEALTHY OR MY FAMILY HISTORY IS CANCER-FREE.

Fact: Screenings can find cancer early, before there are symptoms and when cancer is the most treatable. Talk with your doctor about

the best times to start cancer screenings. Here’s a guide to get started:

• Breast Cancer Screenings can start at age 40 in women.

• Colorectal Cancer Screenings in both men and women start at age 45.

• Cervical Cancer Screenings in women begin at age 25.

• Lung Cancer Screenings can start at age 50 in those with a history of smoking.

• Prostate Cancer Screenings begin with a talk with your doctor at age 50.

If you have factors that increase your risk for developing cancer like family history, genetics or lifestyle factors, earlier screenings are recommended.

Find a trusted expert with Adventist HealthCare at AHCYou.com/ W23Doctors

OUR PANEL OF MYTH-BUSTING ADVENTIST HEALTHCARE EXPERTS:

Daisy F. Lazarous, MD, Director, Women’s Cardiovascular Program

Avni Jain, MD, Family Medicine

Adrian Dyer, MD, Family Medicine

Marissa Leslie, MD, Medical Director, Psychiatry

Ogechi Anyaoku, MD, Internal Medicine

CLASSES NOW BEING OFFERED ONLINE

LIVING HEALTHY

Adventist HealthCare offers classes, events and activities to support a healthy body, mind and spirit. Many of our classes and seminars are now being offered virtually. For the most up-to-date information about our classes, visit AHCYou.com/W23Calendar.

PRENATAL, FAMILY AND WOMEN’S HEALTH

Childbirth & Breastfeeding Classes

Adventist HealthCare offers online pregnancy, childbirth and breastfeeding classes so that you can prepare for baby in the comfort and safety of your own home. Classes include:

• Childbirth & Infant Care

• Breastfeeding

To learn more and register, visit AHCYou.com/ W23Birth.

Support Groups

Adventist HealthCare offers several online support groups for parents. To learn more, visit AHCYou.com/W23Calendar or call 800-542-5096.

Gestational Diabetes Education

Free two-hour class covering important topics to prepare expectant mothers to manage their blood sugar through monitoring, diet,

physical activity and medication use.

When: Twice monthly. Preregistration is required.

Where: Visit AHCYou.com/W23Diabetes for more details.

BEST: Breastfeeding Education, Support and Togetherness

When: Wednesdays from 10:30–11:30 a.m. Preregistration is required. Where: Visit AHCYou.com/W23Best for more details.

Discovering Motherhood: Adjusting to Your New Role

When: Mondays from 10:30–11:30 a.m. Preregistration is required.

Where: Visit AHCYou.com/W23Moms for more details.

Perinatal Loss Support

This six-week support group for those who have experienced a loss related to pregnancy is run by an experienced perinatal loss specialist.

When: Tuesdays, Jan. 24 to Feb. 28 from 7–8:30 p.m. Preregistration is required.

Where: Visit AHCYou.com/W23Support for more details.

Info: Call 800-542-5096 for dates and more information.

MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT GROUPS

Virtual support groups are available and open to patients, families and community members. Visit AHCYou.com/ W23Support for more information.

NUTRITION, FITNESS AND WEIGHT LOSS

Weight-Loss Program

CoreLife and Adventist HealthCare’s unique program combines medical expertise, nutrition, fitness and behavior modification under one roof to empower patients to live healthier lives. Schedule your first appointment by calling 800-905-3261 and learn more by visiting us at AHCYou.com/ W23CoreLife or on Facebook @CoreLife.

CPR CLASSES

Adventist HealthCare Life Support partners with the American Heart Association (AHA) to provide convenient CPR and first aid courses. Visit AHCYou. com/W23CPR for course schedules, locations and registration.

AHA Heartsaver CPR/AED and First Aid

The AHA’s Heartsaver course is designed for individuals with little or no medical training who need first aid and CPR training for a job, regulatory or other requirements. This five-hour combined program is for teens and adults who want to be prepared to act in an emergency. Class is offered in-person. Cost: $125 for one attendee, discounts for multiple registrants. When: Monthly; please visit AHCYou.com/ W23CPR.

American Heart Association: Infant Safety & CPR

This class teaches safety, choking management and CPR for newborns through age 1. An AHA Family & Friends CPR attendance card will be given to each participant upon completion.

NO BABIES PLEASE.

Cost: $75 for main registrant, discounts for additional registrants.

When: Monthly; please visit AHCYou.com/ W23CPR.

American Heart Association: BLS, ACLS, PALS, NRP

We offer the full suite of AHA clinical courses. If you are a healthcare professional needing basic or advanced CPR certification, please contact Adventist HealthCare Life Support at 240-826-2673 for details about class schedules and pricing.

Home Alone Class

Adventist HealthCare’s Home Alone Program provides children with the skills and knowledge to be safe and responsible when home alone for short periods of time. This course is intended for children ages 8 to 12 who are ready to take their first steps toward independence and being without adult supervision.

Cost: $50/individual, discounts available for multiple registrants.

When: Monthly; please visit AHCYou.com/ W23Home.

Child & Babysitting Safety (CABS)

Child & Babysitting Safety is an

education program from the American Safety & Health Institute for children ages 12 and older who are planning to provide babysitting services for young children and infants. This fourhour course will help students develop the knowledge, skills and confidence to effectively supervise and manage children in their care.

Cost: $75/individual, discounts available for multiple registrants.

When: Monthly; please visit AHCYou.com/ W23Babysitting.

REHAB SUPPORT GROUPS

Amputee Support Group

When: Fourth Thursday of the month from 4:30–5:30 p.m.

Info: Visit AHCYou.com/W23Rehab.

Brain Injury Support Group

When: Second Thursday of the month from 6:30–7:30 p.m.

Info: Visit AHCYou.com/W23Rehab for more information. Family members are welcome.

Grupo de apoyo de daño cerebral en español

Le invitamos al grupo de apoyo en español para personas que han tenido un derrame cerebral.

Cuándo: Nos reunimos el tercer martes de cada mes a las 6:30 p.m. via Zoom y también en persona.

Donde: Nos reunimos en la clínica Adventista en el White Oak Medical Pavilion, tercer piso 11886 Healing Way en Silver Spring, MD.

Para Obtener Información: Comuníquese con Amelie Bail: ABail@AdventistHealthCare.com.

Familiares y amistades que brindan apoyo también quedan invitados.

Parkinson’s Disease Support Group

Our support group welcomes individuals and care partners living with Parkinson’s disease. We invite you to connect with others facing similar challenges in a safe, comfortable and supportive environment. Activities include guest speakers, networking and sharing of resources. This virtual group is facilitated by a physical therapist and speech-language pathologist. New members are always welcome.

When: Second Thursday of the month Info: Call 240-637-6040 or visit AHCYou. com/W23Rehab.

CANCER SUPPORT

Our expert-led educational seminars cover a wide range of topics about your health and well-being as a cancer patient. We bring you the information you need for all aspects of navigating cancer including How to Talk to Kids About Cancer, Financial Strategies for Life with Cancer and more. Visit AHCYou.com/ W23Cancer for more information on all programs available.

Nutritional Management of Side Effects of Treatment

Managing side effects of chemotherapy and radiation therapy can help avoid breaks in treatment. Examples of possible side effects are taste changes, diarrhea, constipation, nausea and more. Learn how to reduce the common side effects

with our expert oncology nutritionist.

When: April 7 from 1:30–2:30 p.m.

Info: Visit AHCYou.com/W23Cancer for more information.

Ask a Dietitian

Each month, patients and caregivers can bring any question on nutrition. The session starts with a short talk on a new focus topic. Next, a nutritionist answers your questions on diet, cancer, wellness and more.

When: Second Tuesday of the month from 1:30–2:30 p.m.

Info: Visit AHCYou.com/W23Cancer for more information.

Healthy Eating After Treatment

Learn to thrive in survivorship by making wise eating choices and coping with post treatment concerns. Join White Oak Cancer Center’s oncology nutritionist, Dorcas Lwanga, for this workshop.

When: March 3 from 1:30–2:30 p.m.

Info: Visit AHCYou.com/W23Cancer.

Cooking with Patty and Nick

Each month, our oncology nutritionist, Patricia Guay-Berry, and Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center Executive Chef Nick Haller show you how to make delicious and healthy recipes. Each class will relate to the topic for the month.

When: Wednesday, April 12 from 6-7 p.m. Info: Visit AHCYou.com/W23Cancer for more information.

Good Nutrition for Cancer Care

An expert oncology nutritionist helps patients and their families thrive during treatment and beyond. Learn how to lessen side effects, maintain a healthy weight and avoid breaks in treatment.

When: Tuesday, April 18 from 2–3:30 p.m. Info: Visit AHCYou.com/W23Cancer for more information.

Newly Diagnosed: Navigating the New Normal

Open to patients diagnosed with cancer within the last 6 months. Come meet and learn with others experiencing a new cancer diagnosis. This is a four-week class.

When: Tuesdays from March 7-28 from 6:30–7:30 p.m.

Info: Visit AHCYou.com/W23Cancer.

SUPER SNACK SWITCHES

THE only thing better than cheering on your favorite sports team is the snacks you get to eat while watching the action. Finding healthy snacks that provide nutritional value shouldn’t require you to lose out on foods you enjoy. With the help of dietitian Patricia Hertz from Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center, we have gathered some helpful tips to make the foods you love work better for your health this championship season.

SANDWICHES

Rolls: Focus on options like whole-grain or wheat bread, as opposed to traditional Italian or white bread, to get a better source of fiber and nutrients.

Meat: Avoid highly processed and salty luncheon meats by carving up a fresh turkey or rotisserie chicken.

Condiments: Mayonnaise and other condiments contain mostly unhealthy fats. Swap them for olive oil and vinegar-based dressings which are great for heart health.

DIPS

Greek Yogurt: It’s a great substitute for ranch dressing or sour cream in dip. Greek yogurt can help reduce your appetite, and it’s an excellent source of nutrients!

Plant-Based: Instead of going for the queso or layer dips, filled with fatty cheese and heavy creams, try guacamole or hummus! They are packed with healthy fats, and they support stronger heart health.

Chips and Vegetables: Air-fried tortillas can offer a delicious and crunchy alternative to regular salty chips. Vegetables and fruits are also great for dipping. They have less salt and provide more vitamins.

NACHOS

The Base: Use vegetables like bell peppers and lettuce instead of chips as a base. These options help reduce the amount of salt and provide a crunchy texture similar to chips.

Toppings: Chicken and ground turkey are lean alternatives to fatty ground beef. Try healthy toppers like onions, carrots, tomatoes, low-fat cheese and jalapenos instead of sour cream and full-fat cheese.

WINGS

For the coating: Use an air fryer to cook chicken wings. Try a panko or corn flake coating for a lighter breading alternative.

From the garden: Roasted cauliflower can be a tasty alternative to chicken!

By utilizing small and nutritious alternatives in your recipes, you can make eating during the big game a yummy and guilt-free experience!

To get more great game-day recipe ideas, visit AHCYou.com/ W23LivingWell .

Making a Difference

KATIE’S STORY

As the cancer program and registry manager, Katie Ronca has been advocating for many years in her work finding ways to improve the cancer programs offered at Adventist HealthCare.

“I advocate for patients by looking at the data,” explained Katie. “This helps plan services and offerings for patients and focuses on the quality of care we provide.”

Katie didn’t think cancer would happen to her. She was diagnosed with stage 0 breast cancer in 2017. As Katie walks through Adventist HealthCare’s two cancer centers, she remembers sitting in the same seat as the patients, feeling scared and nervous. “I know the value of a warm and genuine ‘Good morning’ or ‘Hi, how are you doing today?’ It matters that patients feel welcomed,” Katie said.

Although Katie works behind the scenes, she is constantly influencing patient care by looking at the big picture. As cancer registrar, the data she manages helps to put the patient at the center of care, not only within Adventist HealthCare, but nationally and even globally.

TIFFANY’S STORY

Tiffany Horvath, practice administrator at the Center for Advanced Radiation Oncology at White Oak Cancer Center, is dedicated to ensuring patients receive the care they need throughout their journey. She knows what it’s like to be scared when faced with a health crisis. She was diagnosed with follicular lymphoma, a cancer of the lymphatic system and a form of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. This type of cancer is slow-growing, but that didn’t change the feelings of stress and anxiety she felt when she first learned her diagnosis.

“While I was going for my scans, I realized I didn’t know the exact process and what to expect even though I worked in healthcare,” said Tiffany, who was heavily involved in patient care as a scribe at a cancer center when she was diagnosed. “It actually humbled me because if this is my experience, then what are people who aren’t in healthcare dealing with?” Now, her goal is to always let patients know they are not alone, and the entire cancer care team is there to support them.

MELISSA’S STORY

Melissa Hogle is the business development manager at Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center. She meets with community physicians to spread awareness about all the services available, including cancer care at the Shady Grove Adventist Aquilino Cancer Center.

Since being diagnosed with stage 1 estrogen-positive breast cancer in her left breast in 2019, Melissa has become more passionate in her role. She understands the feelings of being scared, in shock and confused. “I know how I felt,” Melissa said, “and when I’m talking with physicians in the community about our wellness programs, I explain why they are special, important and beneficial to patients.”

Melissa also had an impact on care when she was in treatment. Knowing the risk associated to the heart and lungs when radiation is targeted to the left breast, she met with her radiation oncologist, Marie Gurka, MD, at the Aquilino Cancer Center. She asked about the possibility of receiving prone breast radiation therapy since it changes the treatment position, lowering the radiation exposure.

Working together, they successfully added access to the therapy.

“I was the first patient to have this type of treatment at the cancer center,” she said. “I’m glad my diagnosis has helped future patients who come after me since this piece of equipment is so important.”

MICHELE’S STORY

Michele McBride, RN, serves as the oncology nurse navigator at the Aquilino Cancer Center, connecting patients to resources like transportation, financial support and wellness programming. She also leads a program offering free wigs to women who lost their hair during treatment.

Michele recognizes the uncertainty women feel when they start to lose their hair; she was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer in 2017. “Your appearance is one thing you can control, so being able to help women look their best is important to me,” Michele said.

Life doesn’t stop for cancer treatment and Michele aims to find ways to not only assist patients with their physical appearance, but through grants and programs that help with paying bills, meal deliveries and connecting them with appropriate resources to assist with family life and mental health.

“I’ve found that sharing my own experience with others helps them realize they aren’t alone,” Michele said. “I want to make their experience a little easier by finding them resources that help with everyday life, so they can focus on healing.”

Through their own experiences, these Adventist HealthCare team members are making a difference every day in the lives of our patients. With dedication, compassion and advocacy, they are finding new ways to bring world-class cancer care to our community.

Learn more about Adventist HealthCare’s cancer services at AHCYou.com/ W23CancerCare.

After their own diagnoses of cancer, four Adventist HealthCare team members have found additional meaning in their work providing compassionate cancer care.

A User’s Guide TO THE EMERGENCY ROOM

When you’re really sick or in pain and don’t know why, do you know where to go for help?

ISan emergency room too much? Urgent care not enough? Should you just call a doctor? And if it’s an emergency, why does the hospital make you wait?

UNDERSTANDING URGENT CARE

An urgent care center is usually the right choice for non-lifethreatening conditions: fever, flu-like symptoms, minor burns, and strains, sprains or other manageable pain.

“With the loss of the family physician as a timely option for care, since most no longer have same-day appointments, patients are often left having to manage their own care,” said Mike Oxenford, RN, Director of Emergency Services at Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center. “Urgent care fills the void between a general practitioner and the emergency department.”

WHEN IT’S TIME FOR THE ED

For some symptoms, there’s no debate. Call 9-1-1 if you lose consciousness, have signs of a heart attack or stroke, have difficulty breathing or experience a life- or a limb-threatening injury. If you pass out, are short of breath or have extreme pain with no obvious cause, an emergency department (ED) is the better choice.

An ED also is the right place to treat uncontrolled bleeding, a head injury or seizures. Specialists like board-certified emergency physicians, neurologists and cardiologists are available in an ED 24/7 to help diagnose and treat conditions like these. At Shady Grove, pediatric specialists are also on hand in an ED just for children. To get answers quickly in a serious emergency, an ED also has around-the-clock lab and imaging services.

IT’S AN EMERGENCY. WHY AM I WAITING SO LONG?

An ED is not first come, first served. The sickest patients are always seen first. Shortly after patients arrive to the ED, they undergo triage, a brief exam to determine how quickly a doctor needs to see them compared to other waiting patients. As time passes, if more patients arrive with grave conditions, they will jump the line.

“Patients with immediate, emergent needs are seen sooner and their treatment takes longer than urgent, semi-urgent or non-urgent patients,” Mike said.

In general, the less severe your ailments or injury, the longer the wait. You also might experience long waits when:

• Seasonal issues like the flu cause overcrowding

• Many patients arrive at one time, straining resources

• Caregiver staffing is limited

• Radiology and laboratory results are needed

• Specialist physicians must be called in or consulted

• Patients in the ED who need to be admitted are waiting for inpatient beds to open

If you have a cold, cough, sore throat or symptoms you can manage, Mike suggests calling a primary care doctor. Also, by making time for regular visits to the doctor, you can head off conditions that could later develop into emergencies – saving time and money in the long run.

If you are experiencing a life-threatening medical emergency, call 911. For more information about Adventist HealthCare’s Emergency department, visit AHCYou.com/W23Emergency .

“We’re like a family.”

Emergency nurses describe the team at Adventist HealthCare Fort Washington Medical Center.

BEING a helpful person has been a lifelong calling for Jhonni Jones , RN.

As a child, Jhonni would try to take care of every stray animal she could find, and she would be there to assist family members as her cousins, nieces and nephews were growing up.

“Ever since I was a little girl my mom always told me I would become a nurse,” she said. “I was always the one who was trying to nurture everybody.”

Jhonni works as an assistant nurse manager in the Emergency department at Adventist HealthCare Fort Washington Medical Center. She has been with the hospital since 2001. Before that, she worked in a nursing home and as an emergency medical technician. “Everything I’ve done since I was a teenager has been related to healthcare,” Jhonni said. But nothing has been quite as rewarding as what she has experienced at Fort Washington.

“The people here have given me a sense of belonging and a sense of family,” she said. “I feel like I have a purpose because the people I work with and the people I meet in this community are outstanding.”

Each day, emergency nurses face difficult situations and emotional scenarios while caring for patients who walk in the front door or who are rushed to the hospital by an ambulance. But as Jhonni observed, the team at Fort Washington always emerges strong and united in their goal of delivering quality and compassionate patient care.

To further that goal, Fort Washington Medical Center leaders have outlined a plan for the future that includes a larger, state-of-the-art hospital with a larger and updated emergency department, a robust provider network, and a long list of specialty services. This garrison of providers will be spread more evenly across a region where residents too often face a lack of options when it comes to their health.

“This community is getting bigger by the day,” said Brittany Keys , RN, the emergency department manager at Fort Washington Medical Center. “We need to make sure that we have the space and the resources to be able to care for the people here, so they aren’t forced to leave their own community to get service.”

Like Jhonni, Brittany has been working to help people throughout her life, deciding in high school that she wanted to be a nurse. She’s been with Fort Washington Medical Center since 2012. She said it’s been exciting to see the hospital grow as it works to reduce local health care disparities in southwestern Prince George’s County.

“We’re serving the members of this community where most of us live,” Brittany said. “This team is like my family. I wouldn’t want to work anywhere else.”

Learn more about joining the family of nurses at Fort Washington Medical Center or to explore careers at other Adventist HealthCare hospitals, visit AHCYou.com/W23Nurses .

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and international Special Olympics

Aback injury forced 51-year-old Desi to take a break from 43 years of competing in the Special Olympics. Before her injury, Desi had many accomplishments competing in track and field, aquatics, and cycling. Last March, she won the Jimmy Myrick Jr. Governor’s Courage Award, presented annually to an exceptional Special Olympian in Maryland.

After back surgery at Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center, Desi began receiving care in June 2021 from an extraordinary team of physical and occupational therapists at Adventist HealthCare Rehabilitation. Desi’s Rehab team has helped her find fun and enjoyable ways of exercising and living well.

TEAM REHAB

Desi’s history of training for the Special Olympics taught her to be responsible for her own health and stay active. Her experience training has helped her get through physical therapy and has made an incredible difference in her journey to recovery.

Desi’s physical therapist has patients who don’t exercise every day, said Desi’s mother, Candy. “But with Desi, he can see the progress and that goes back to the Special Olympics. Desi is used to training.”

The highlight of Desi’s week is when her physical and occupational therapists poke their heads around the corner to surprise her when they arrive at her home.

When asked what her favorite part of physical therapy is, Desi replies, “Dance!” She loves exercising, dancing and singing gospel songs with her Adventist HealthCare caregivers.

“They’re the best of friends,” Candy said. “Desi has built incredible relationships with her care team.”

Meet Desi and hear more about how Adventist HealthCare Rehabilitation supports her recovery by watching her story at AHCYou.com/W23Desi .

Adventist HealthCare complies with applicable federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability or sex. For more information, see link on our homepage at AdventistHealthCare.com.

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competitor Desiree “Desi” Holland has made incredible friendships with her care team from Adventist HealthCare Rehabilitation.

GRATEFUL