Vol. 25
No. 14
www.cnic.navy.mil/bethesda/
April 11, 2013
Inside:
Molecular Biology Course launched.................Pg.3
1-year-old all smiles after lip surgey....................Pg. 4
Photo illustration by Master-At-Arms Seaman Jessica Bianca
Sexual Assault Awareness: How Much Do You Really Know? By Master-At-Arms Seaman April Beazer NSAB Public Affairs staff writer
Poisonous Snakes Visit NSAB
..................................Pg.
Fisher House staff receives award
...................................Pg.
6
7
Sexual assault is a serious issue, both in the military and in the civilian world. Sexual Assault Awareness Month is observed at Naval Support Activity Bethesda (NSAB) and nationally in April, but is an important topic year-round. When considering who to go to after a sexual assault, Lisa Wilson, NSAB’s Fleet and Family Support Center’s (FFSC) family advocacy program clinical case manager, said “it’s not necessarily beneficial to press the survivor to make a particular decision at a certain time. I think it’s more important to be able to support the survivor and make them aware of what resources are available to them should they choose to report.” FFSC offers a Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Program (SAPR), which helps survivors and ev-
eryone around them with support and getting the help they need. “It is really important to connect them with the SAPR as quickly as possible so the survivor of a sexual assault is aware of their reporting options and what’s available to them,” said Wilson. Yeoman 2nd Class Kelsey Leach, recently attended the SAPR program and is now a victims advocate. She offered her thoughts on statistics and the importance of sexual assault awareness. “My duty as a very young Sailor is to help people. I went through the class [SAPR Training] last week and I fully believe in this [SAPR program],” Leach said. “[The instructor] laid out the statistics, and there is an issue.” During the SAPR training, Leach learned many frightening statistics about sexual assault. “In 2011, there were 19,000 sexual assaults. That is a huge number and things are only getting worse,” said Leach. “Only 3,000 [sexual assaults]
have been reported. Out of those, I think there was a smaller number — I’m going to say around 300 — which were actually convicted.” One thing that most survivors don’t realize is that they have options when reporting the assault. “There is typically both the restricted and unrestricted reporting option. If the individual speaks initially to a medical provider, family advocacy team or the SAPR program, they have the option of keeping their report restricted, which means that it’s contained within the medical community and family advocacy. Then, they have the choice as to whether or not they want to initiate an investigation or if they want the report to be more broadly known. If they go first to their command or to some outside entity, then they don’t have the restricted report option,” Wilson said. The second option is the unrestrict-
See AWARENESS page 7
2
Thursday, April 11, 2013
The Journal
Bethesda Notebook
Commander’s Column This April 22, we will mark the 33rd annual Earth Day. By “we,” I mean we collectively – on the planet Earth. Every year, more than a billion people around the world do something to recognize Earth Day and 192 countries recognize it officially. So, I think it is fair to say that Earth Day is kind of a big deal. It’s also a little deal because for it to truly be effective, change has to take place at the local level and even more importantly at the individual level. Here at Naval Support Activity Bethesda, volunteers will conduct a base wide clean up on 22 April. But, that’s still at the “big deal” level. The intent of the cleanup isn’t to get people to clean up the base — that’s a beneficial side effect. The intent is to get people to see that we have a need to clean up the base and make them aware of the affect their habits and actions can have. If you recycle more, if you don’t litter, if you dispose of cigarette butts properly (or better yet, quit smoking … topic for a different column), the need to hold a base clean up might not exist. A clean installation is one example of an area where an individual can have a direct impact on our environment, but there are many others. How many of us have been told to turn our computers off when we leave at the end of the day or turn off the lights when you leave the office for more than a few minutes? How many of us do it? Have you thrown recyclables into the trash next to
Published by offset every Thursday by Comprint Military Publications, 9030 Comprint Court, Gaithersburg, Md. 20877, a private firm in no way connected with the U.S. Navy, under exclusive written contract with the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Md. This commercial enterprise newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the military services. Contents of The Journal are not necessarily the official views of, nor endorsed by, the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense, or the Department of Navy. The appearance of advertising in this publication, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the Department of Defense or Comprint, Inc., of the products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without re-
DAISY Nominations Due
The next quarterly DAISY ceremony will be May 8 at 10 a.m. in Memorial Auditorium. Nominations for the award, which recognizes extraordinary nursing team members, are due no later than tomorrow. For more information, contact Christina Ferguson at 301-319-4148, or Joan Loepker-Duncan at 301-319-4617.
your desk rather than put them into a recycle bin? We have more than 12,000 people on this base. If each person made a sincere effort to do some of the things I’ve listed above, think about the difference it could make. These things are not just abstract benefits to the environment; they have very real dollar costs associated with them. I chose to talk about Earth Day and the environment here for several reasons. First, it affects my bottom line. Second, taking care of the environment is a great opportunity to earn a private victory. A private victory is that feeling you get by doing the right thing, even if no one notices. The satisfaction of those moments is a terrific reward. They are good for your soul. And finally, I genuinely care about the environment. It’s not about doing it right so we can be in compliance; it’s about doing it right simply because it’s the right thing to do. There is literally not a single thing I mentioned above that would have a negative consequence. So if you can, please join me for the clean up on 22 April. If you can’t, pick an environmental action, no matter how small and make it a habit.
Research and Innovation Week
April 16-22 will be observed as Research and Innovation Week at Walter Reed Bethesda. The observance will include a Recognizing Medical Research Heroes event on April 16 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the America Building lobby; a poster exhibit and competition on April 17 and 18 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Building 9 (near The Wedge); a symposium on April 19 from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Clark Auditorium (Building 10); and a collaborate and connect summit on April 22 from 8 a.m. to noon in Clark Auditorium. All events are open to everyone. For more information, call Deb Murphy at 301-295-8231, or email deborah.a.murphy.ctr@health.mil.
TRICARE 101: Benefits and Referrals
The next monthly TRICARE class for providers, TRICARE 101, will be Wednesday from 11 a.m. to noon in the TRICARE Service Center in Building 9, first floor. Space is limited. For more information, contact Tracy Keyser at tracy.b.keyser@healthnet.com.
Chapel Community Luncheon
The Chapel Community Luncheon will be April 21 beginning at 11 a.m. in the America Building Conference Rooms on the second floor. All the Chapel communities, including Roman Catholic, Protestant, Jewish, Islam and Hindu, are invited to attend. For more information, contact Chaplain (Capt.) Sergio I Daza at 301-295-1433 or at sergio.daza@med. navy.mil.
All Ahead Full, Capt. Frederick (Fritz) Kass Naval Support Activity Bethesda Commanding Officer
gard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation, or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, user, or patron. Editorial content is edited, prepared and provided by the Public Affairs Office, Naval Support Activity Bethesda, Md. News copy should be submitted to the Public Affairs Office, Building 11, lower level, Room 41, by noon one week preceding the desired publication date. News items are welcomed from all installation sources. Inquiries about news copy will be answered by calling 301- 295-1803. Commercial advertising should be placed with the publisher by telephoning 301-921-2800. Publisher’s advertising offices are located at 9030 Comprint Court, Gaithersburg, Md. 20877. Classified ads can be placed by calling 301-670-1700.
Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bethesda Commanding Officer: Capt. Frederick (Fritz) Kass Public Affairs Officer NSAB: Joseph Macri Public Affairs Office NSAB: 301-295-1803
Journal Staff Staff Writers
MC2 John Hamilton MCSN Brandon WilliamsChurch MASN April Beazer Sarah Marshall Sharon Renee Taylor Cat DeBinder David A. Dickinson Jeremy Johnson
Managing Editor MC2 Nathan Parde WRNMMC Editor Bernard Little Walter Reed National Military Medical Center Office of Media Relations 301-295-5727
Fleet And Family Support Center WRNMMC Ombudsman Julie Bondar NSAB Ombudsman Jojo Lim Hector
301-319-4087 443-854-5167 703-901-6730
Visit us on Facebook:
Naval Support Activity Bethesda page: https://www.facebook.com/NSABethesda Walter Reed National Medical Center page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Walter-ReedNational-Military-Medical-Center/295857217111107 Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Uniformed-Services-University-of-the-HealthSciences/96338890888?fref=ts
The Journal
Thursday, April 11, 2013
3
New Course Provides Practical Application in Clinical Setting By Sharon Renee Taylor WRNMMC Journal staff writer Walter Reed National Military Medical Center (WRNMMC) launched a new, four-week molecular biology short course March 13. Sixteen students participated in the four-part course that covers genetics and lung cancer, gene expression, as well as DNA methylation (the biochemical process that alters the expression of genes), and clinical application. “We had a higher demand than we expected for the course and had to cap registration at 16,” explained Deb Murphy, academic research education coordinator for the department of research programs which sponsored the molecular biology course. “We wanted it to be an indepth bench experience for the students so they could spend time in pairs, using lab equipment in real-time. It wasn’t just lectures, it was sit down at a station, roll up your sleeves and really apply what you learned.” Murphy said students enrolled in the course were able to learn using state-ofthe art equipment with the lab’s subject matter experts. “That’s what’s exciting about
this course: you can actually do the work once you learn it,” she explained. Students, mostly physicians in their residency or fellowship, said they enjoyed the hands-on learning approach the short course offers. “I appreciate that they tried to simplify the course down to some basic techniques that we can use in planning and executing our own research projects,” said Air Force Capt. Daniel Adams, a first year fellow in pediatrics and infectious disease at Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences. He explained that he’s already actively involved in HIV research at Walter Reed Army Institute of Research in Silver Spring, Md., examining the immune profiles of mothers. Adams said he expects to take what he learns in the molecular biology short course about polymerase chain reaction (PCR), a biochemical technology that amplifies DNA, and utilize it for a future project. “It’s likely many of [the students] took a similar course elsewhere along their education,” explained Army Capt. Raymond Casteline, deputy director for the de-
partment of research programs at WRNMMC which hosted the course. “This course will go beyond what these students learn in medical school. It will teach a practical application of molecular biology in a clinical research setting,” he said. The molecular biology short course will enable students enrolled in the course, for example, to examine a lung cancer gene, study both a normal and abnormal cell, and “know the science behind it,” Casteline explained. Army Lt. Col. Molly Klote, chief for the department of research, explained how important the course is for physicians, patients, and military medicine. “An ability to participate in the mechanics of how certain laboratory tests are conducted helps clinicians to better understand how to interpret the results of those tests. The molecular biology course offers these opportunities,” Klote said. Ambareen Ahmed is a research assistant with the Defense and Veterans Center for Integrative Pain Management at WRNMMC. She conducts studies on regional anesthesia. Ahmed said the hands-on approach
See COURSE page 9
Photo by Sharon Renee Taylor
Air Force Capt. Daniel Adams, a first-year fellow in pediatrics and infectious disease at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, uses lab equipment to apply what he learned earlier during the lecture portion of the new Molecular Biology Short Course at Walter Reed Bethesda.
Chief Surgeon Recognized With ‘Courage to Teach Award’ By Bernard S. Little WRNMMC Journal staff writer
Photo by Sarah Marshall
Col. (Dr.) Craig Shriver wears many hats at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center (WRNMMC) – chief of general surgery service, director of the John P. Murtha Cancer Center, professor of surgery at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USU), and director of the National Capital Consortium’s General Surgery Residency Training Program. It is for the latter Shriver was recently presented the 2013 Parker J. Palmer Courage to Teach Award. The award, created in 2002 by the Accreditation Council of Graduate Medical Education (ACGME), is presented annually to honor directors of
medical residency programs that exemplify patientcentered professionalism in medical education. Shriver received the award March 1 in Orlando, Fla., during the ACGME’s Annual Education Conference. A C G M E ’s Pa r k e r J. Palmer Courage to Teach Award salutes program directors “who find innovative ways to teach residents and to provide quality health care while remaining connected to the initial impulse to care for others in this environment,” explained Army Col. Clifton E. Yu, chief of GME at WRNMMC. The ACGME is also responsible for accrediting the majority of GME training programs (internships, residencies and fellowships) for physicians in the United States. Its Courage to Teach Award is
named for Parker J. Palmer, an educator, activist and author of the book, “The Courage to Teach,” which promotes close collaboration among professional colleagues and the concept of “living divided no more,” Yu added. A native of Reading, Pa., Shriver earned his medical degree from Temple University School of Medicine in Philadelphia, before he was commissioned in the U.S. Army Medical Corps, and completed his general surgery internship and residency at the former Walter Reed Army Medical Center (WRAMC). He was selected for advanced fellowship training in surgical oncology at the Memorial SloanKettering Cancer Center. “I knew I wanted to make
See AWARD page 9
4
Thursday, April 11, 2013
The Journal
Craniofacial Clinic Making a Difference, One Smile at a Time By Sarah Marshall WRNMMC Journal staff writer Before his 1st birthday, Kade Leyran had two surgeries, one for his cleft lip, and the second to repair his palate. Between operations, he underwent dental work and his parents had to keep up with a daily routine requiring them to do at-home treatments – on top of their baby’s typical needs. The parents of the 1-year-old, Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Kevin Leyran and Grace Leyran, said the last year has been challenging, but their lives were made easier thanks to Walter Reed Bethesda’s Craniofacial Team, which has been there for their family every step of the way, the corpsman explained. “They’ve really helped us through Kade’s first year. We can’t ask for more,” said the Sailor, who works in radiology at the medical center. The Craniofacial Team began more than 20 years ago at the former Walter Reed Army Medical Center (WRAMC), said Air Force Lt. Col. Kerry Latham, team leader. Shortly after WRAMC integrated with the former National Naval Medical Center, in September 2011, the team moved to the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center (WRNMMC) where it
1038382
Photo by Sarah E. Marshall
Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Kevin Leyran holds his 1-year-old son, Kade, all smiles. The corpsman and his family say they are grateful for the outpouring support from the medical center’s Craniofacial team. has continued its services, she said. The multidisciplinary team has grown over the years, and hopes to continue expanding, Latham said. Made up of staff members who work in various areas of the medical center, each specialize in treating cleft lip and palate, along with other craniofacial conditions, such as craniosyn-
ostosis – a birth defect that causes the bony plates on a baby’s head to close earlier than normal, forming an abnormally shaped head. Team members work in Plastic Surgery, Ear Nose and Throat, Genetics, Speech Pathology and Audiology. They also specialize in Dental, Orthodontics, Prosthodontics, Social Work, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Psychology, Developmental Pediatrics and Neurosurgery.
Once a month, the team meets in the ENT clinic, located in the America Building, explained Latham, who went on to discuss why its members are involved with this special team in addition to their obligatory duties.“They’re so passionate about taking care of these kids and helping families,” she said. “Every person on the team is so critical and contributes so much. Everybody bends over backwards. I couldn’t ask for a better group to work with, simply because they enjoy their work.” About 150 families are currently enrolled in the program, Latham added, and many are children, but the team is open to see patients of all ages. The team will see adults with a history of cleft lip or palate, who are now active duty or a dependent, to address any future or further needs, she said. The team may also begin to work with the family of a child with a craniofacial disorder as early as utero, Latham added. When Grace Leyran was about 18 weeks pregnant with Kade, she and her husband learned their son would likely be born with a cleft lip and pallet. At that time, they met with the team, which helped put their minds at ease. Ever since, the team has supported their family, they said. After Kade’s birth, the infant had
See SMILE page 5
1036140
The Journal
SMILE Continued from 4 a check-up with a team member almost every week. He had dental work, referred to as “baby braces,” that constantly needed adjusting to help align his palate, prior to surgery. Kade is not expected to need further operations, his parents said, but perhaps additional dental work. Regardless, the toddler will continue working with the team as he grows, so the team can monitor his development, the Leyrans explained, while watching their baby crawling around the Pediatric waiting area, reaching for toys. Each patient is different, developing and improving at different rates, Latham said. Some children with facial disorders may deal with social issues, at some point, while others may require jaw surgery, or need ear tubes because of frequent ear infections, she explained. “We want to watch them grow. We want to get to know them,” Latham said. “We need to keep seeing them, [and] see how they’re doing.” After surgeries, each patient also heals differently, though children usually only need to stay overnight after many craniofacial procedures, she added. “Their recoveries are amazing. They’re resilient. The kids do fantastic. They’re so impressive,” she said. The multidisciplinary craniofacial team also ensures convenience for the patient and their family, Latham added. Team members align their schedules, so patients can meet with as many specialists as possible during a single trip to the medical center. This also enables the team to streamline surgical interventions, so more than one procedure can be performed during the same operation, and anesthesia is only administered once. Using this approach, a child may undergo cleft palate surgery while an audiologist inserts ear tubes, during the same operation, she said. “A lot of these families have a lot of different visits. It’s so much easier if they can come and see all the different doctors at one time, instead of having to make 15 different appointments in one month,” she said. “It shows we have an appreciation for what they’re going through, and their individual
Thursday, April 11, 2013 needs. The families are really appreciative that we have a special place for their little ones with facial differences.” Latham added the goal is to make sure the timing is right for everybody. “We do everything to try and make sure we’re communicating, making it the best experience for the [patient],” Latham said. Addressing many of their patients’ needs in a single, unique setting is what ensures unified communication, plans and treatments, said Navy Capt. Arne Anderson, who works in Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrics at Walter Reed Bethesda. Involved with the team for the last several months, Anderson helps monitor progress and screens for any potential developmental and behavioral concerns. “The team is special because it brings together a tremendous amount of resources and expertise in one setting to maximize care and benefit for the family and patient,” Anderson said.
Anderson also expressed his appreciation for the collaborative team and being a part of such “outstanding care.” “The opportunity to work with so many skilled and talented people, to help military families and their children, is always tremendously rewarding and worthwhile.” Latham agreed, and said, “We take care of such amazing families and kids. It’s a really special relationship we all develop.” She added the team strives to constantly stay in touch with families, and provides them direct phone numbers and email addresses for every member of the team, should they have any questions about their care. “We invite people to always stay plugged in with us,” she said. “We want to make sure – even when they [change duty stations] or move – that we’ve got that connection.” For more information about the craniofacial team, contact Lt. Col. Latham at kerry.p.latham@
1038185 1038384
5
6
Thursday, April 11, 2013
The Journal
Reptile Discovery Brings ‘Snakes Alive’ to USU By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Nathan Parde NSAB Public Affairs staff writer Hundreds of medical students, staff and their families attended a “Snakes Alive” presentation at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USU) March 11. Bruce Shwedick, director of Reptile Discovery Programs, has traveled the world nearly four decades to learn about various reptiles, and brought more than a dozen snakes to the campus to teach medical students how to treat snake bites and the effects of venom. “Mr. Shwedick brings these snakes here as part of our tropical medicine curriculum,” said Lt. Col. Patrick Hickey, Army Medical Corps, USU Department of Preventive Medicine and Biometrics. “The students are given educational programs on the medical management of snake bites, and this [presentation] compliments that by giving them more familiarity with the epidemiology of the snakes: where they live, what their biology is like, why people get bitten … This has implications for both global public health and force health,
and the medical care of troops who are deployed to overseas areas where these snakes are endemic.” Hickey added the medical community rarely is able to receive this type of training until they face a situation in the field. “Without this sort of opportunity, most physicians never really gain any direct experience with the management of snakes and understanding why it is that people get bit and what they are doing. So, this is a useful opportunity for us to give people experience that they otherwise wouldn’t get at any other medical school.” Shwedick and his brother have been coming to USU for more than 30 years, and the medical students and faculty look forward to the presentation each year, said Hickey. “This program is really one of the highlights of the academic year for many of our medical students. Every year it is an interesting opportunity to learn something new and go outside of the typical medical training and teaching that we do here.” Ens. Ethan Bernstein, a first-year medical student, said he is terrified of snakes, but thought the presentation might help
Photos by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Nathan Parde
Bruce Shwedick, director of Reptile Discovery Programs, brought more than a dozen snakes to the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, including the only venomous snake local to the Washington D.C. area: the copperhead. him to overcome his fear. “I’m not sure if it was entirely successful on that level,” said Bernstein, “but the information is useful and gives a better appreciation of these animals. And as much as I’m afraid of them, I’m also very impressed by the animals.
They are gorgeous.” Shwedick introduced the audience to the 12 snake families, five of which contain venomous species. He also explained why tropical climates can breed more dangerous snakes. “The warmer it is, the more active they are: they
will eat and grow faster. In the case of venomous snakes, their quantity of venom is greater and the toxicity may also be greater.” Shwedick has traveled to numerous sites across Afri-
See SNAKE page 10
The Journal
Thursday, April 11, 2013
7
Fisher House Employee Earns Award for Excellence By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Brandon Williams-Church NSAB Public Affairs staff writer On March 27, Certified Executive Housekeeper of the Fisher Houses Betty White received the Navy Lodging Traveler’s Award for excellence in performing her daily responsibilities. The hard-working native of Saint Catherine, Jamaica, was in disbelief when she found out she was chosen for the award. “I’m still surprised that I received the award because you can’t surprise me. I’ll find out eventually,” said White. “But, I was just floored – I couldn’t get up. This award means that I have to step up to the plate, be more productive, keep the bar up and don’t stop moving forward.” The Traveler’s Award is given to the civilian employee who exemplifies the highest standards of professionalism, attitude, customer service and job knowledge as determined by the Navy Lodging program. Nominees are submitted and selected by the lodging program panel. Pam Smith, Fisher House program manager, describes some of White’s best qualities as her leadership, her training and the ability to rally her staff and set the standards high so that everybody stays devoted to the same mission.
AWARENESS Continued from 1 ed report. Typically this option is used when the survivor reports the assault to their chain of command or another source first, in which their case will become public. Being a survivor of a sexual assault can be very difficult. You can feel very alone and vulnerable which makes it difficult to speak up. “I think the most important thing initially for the survivor of a sexual assault is to know that they are not alone,” said Wilson. “It’s really critical for them to connect with someone who can be available to listen and to support them. If they do connect with the SAPR program, they have a victim advocate who is specifically designated to be that person and to connect them with the appropriate resources and to give them the moral support and an opportunity to explore their different options and make the decision that’s right for them.” If there is a co-worker who suspects that a person they know has been sexual assaulted, it is important to know the right things to say and do, and what resources are
Photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Brandon Williams-Church
Betty White, executive housekeeper at the Fisher Houses, reviews paperwork with Irma Barahona, a staff member at Fisher House 5, Friday. “I’m only as good as my staff around me and how well I train them and teach them, and I think that’s Betty’s philosophy,” said Smith. “She works incredibly hard and she’s right in there with her people and that’s how she is. Betty respects her people and they respect her for that. They all work incredibly well together.”
available to give to that person, said Wilson. “It’s important to respect the person’s privacy and to empower them to take control of the situation,” she said. “You want to make sure that if you’re speaking with that person, you are doing it in a way that’s respectful of their privacy, so you’re in a quiet confidential setting. Also, believe that person, especially when they are initially talking about what happened. It’s really important to take them seriously. Listen to what they are telling you. Validate their experience and their feelings. Ask them what would be most helpful to them and be equipped with the information to provide them for contacting SAPR or family advocacy.” Sexual assault survivors may be at risk of being harmed again by the accused. That is why it is important for them to know what resources and outlets they have and to not be afraid of talking to someone. If someone comes to you about a sexual assault, remember this advice Wilson shared. “As you listen to them, if you feel fears for their safety or if you are concerned that anything you see is a threat to them, strongly encourage them to reach out for appropriate support. That
When she talks about her daily duties and the people she works with, White tends to look up in the air and smile. Quick talking and bubbly, you can tell how much she cares for her staff and enjoys creating a home away from home every day. “I love working for Fisher House,” said White. “I love my job. Very early
in the morning, I’m the first one to come and the last one to go in the end. In order for you to stay motivated, you have to love what you do. I love what I do and I love to see the place clean.” White has been in the business of cleaning for quite some time. She retired in June 2009 after 29 years as a supervisor for housekeeping at Howard University, (where she also received clinical training and became a certified phlebotomist.) White also took on a part time job at the Navy Exchange in 2006 that eventually lead her on a path to working for Fisher House in 2010. When asked of her motivation to stay in the same field for so long, White had simple yet insightful words. “My motivation is to keep looking inside-outside,” said White. “You can’t tell from the outside what the inside is, so if the outside is not looking presentable then what?” White’s dedication to her job and her staff point to why she was chosen as this year’s recipient of the award. The short-haired woman with banglecovered wrists and rings on most of her fingers displays true care for every person she comes into contact with. The Fisher Houses take care of service members and families in
See FISHER page 8
Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Nathan Parde
Naval Support Activity Bethesda’s Commanding Officer, Capt. Frederick Kass, signs a Sexual Assault Awareness Month Proclaimation to support the belief that all service and community members must be a part of the solution to end sexual harrassment and sexual assault. [may] mean for them to call SAPR themselves or have someone go with them or to ask them what would be most comfortable for them. But, if you see a cause for concern, you want to make sure they can get connected with someone so that they
can make sure that they are safe,” said Wilson. Always be prepared. You never know when a sexual assault may occur. It is better to have too much information than not enough when it comes to sexual assault awareness.
8
Thursday, April 11, 2013
The Journal
Distracted Driving on Naval Support Activity Bethesda FISHER By Jeremy K. Johnson NSAB Public Affairs staff writer April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month. According to National Safety Council’s (NSC) website, the month-long observance was introduced as a resolution in 2010 by former Colorado Rep. Betsy Markey to honor 9-year-old Erica Forney, who was killed by a distracted driver in November 2008. Naval Support Active Bethesda’s (NSAB) Senior Enlisted Leader Chief Master-at-Arms Marty McQuagge says his biggest concern is losing good Sailors to a bad practice. “Unfortunately, in this fast-paced world that we live in today, most people have taken for granted the inherent risks of operating a motor vehicle,” he said. “Most don’t realize the tremendous responsibility they have when it comes to being in complete control of a 2,000 pound movable object. As a certified accident investigator I know too well the dangers of distracted driving.” Distraction.gov is a website
operated by the Department of Transportation (DOT). It offers detailed information regarding the dangers of focusing on something other than the road while driving. According to the site, “In 2011, 3,331 people were killed in crashes involving a distracted driver, compared to 3,267 in 2010. An additional, 387,000 people were injured in motor vehicle crashes involving a distracted driver, compared to 416,000 injured in 2010.” The DOT site also includes a list of laws across the country targeting distracted driving. In the District of Columbia and Maryland, for instance, all handheld device usage is prohibited while driving. In Virginia, handheld devices for experienced drivers are permitted, but texting is prohibited. NSAB Chief of Police Lt. Col. Jack Bieger said the practice of driving with handheld devices while on the installation is prohibited and is considered a primary offense, meaning drivers can be pulled over just for being seen on a cell phone while driving. “If you need to take an important call, do like you would any-
where else and pull over someplace safe in a parking lot or out of traffic to answer it, and then continue you on your way,” he said. He added that if a citation is issued under Navy regulations, it will result in a $50 fine. “And it’s actually more than that,” he added, “because there’s is also a $25 processing fee,” he added. So-called hands-free devices are permitted, but NSAB Safety Officer James Ganz says even those carry a risk. “‘Inattention blindness’ is the same for both handheld and hands-free units. The distraction caused by focusing on something other than driving exists whether or not a phone is actually held to the ear, or conversation occurs through some sort of hands-free device such as Bluetooth. According to several studies, the processes and mental images that are associated with sight are over-ridden by images that are associated with words being spoken/heard or keyed. For your own safety, refrain from all types of cell-phone use while your car is in motion (this includes being stopped at a red light).”
Continued from 7
need, and White sits right at the top of the totem pole of care-giving. If you were to only spend five minutes talking to her, it is plain to see what sets her apart for the award. “Every guest walking through the door is important, and they should walk into a beautiful facility and feel as if they are right at home and like they are the most important person on the planet, because they are,” said Smith. “Betty sets that standard and it doesn’t matter how many people walk through that door, Betty makes them feel that the room is for them. Betty and the team are truly amazing. She understands keeping up the standards, because when you’re in the medical facility you have to be on [top of your game], and Betty’s on it.” Betty White knows that without the support of her management and her staff, she wouldn’t have come this far. “I want to thank my staff. They do a great job every day, and it’s hard work,” said White. “I also want to thank my managers Tammy Davis, Pam Smith, Becky Wood and Michael Ybarre because they help encourage me and whatever I need to complete my job or task, they would help me in any way that they can.”
Rental Townhomes
SPECIAL
Two Level, 3BR Town Homes Starting at
Less than 3 miles to WRNMMC
ONLY $1,875 PER MONTH!
Featuring: Oversized 2 & 3 Story Townhomes 21/2 & 31/2 Baths 3, 4 & 5 Bedrooms . 1,400 to 2,100 Sq. Feet
Included Amenities
q Pre-wired for FIOS cable & high-speed internet q Newly redesigned kitchen & appliances q Hardwood floors w/inlay q Ceramic tiled bath q 2" Plantation blinds q Cherry finish kitchen cabinetry q Self-cleaning ranges
q q q q q q q
Side-by-side refrigerator/freezer Garbage disposal Stainless steel sinks Built in Microwave Dishwasher Full-size washer & dryer Private entry patio w/additional storage
301-949-4466
1038380
1038104
11300 - 11476 Connecticut Avenue, Kensington, MD 20895 . www.rcptownhomes.com
The Journal
AWARD Continued from 3 an impact as a cancer surgeon,” Shriver explained. “There was a lot we didn’t know about cancer in general. Considering breast cancer is and has been the most common cancer amongst women, I felt early in my career that’s an area where I could make a difference.” In 1998, Shriver became program director of WRAMC’s general surgery residency program, and remained in that role when WRAMC integrated with the former National Naval Medical Center to form WRNMMC in the fall of 2011. The doctor has completed four combat tours, including two in Afghanistan, and has led his surgeons in the treatment of more than 7,500 patients from Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom since the terrorists’ attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. As director of the John P. Murtha Cancer Center, Shriver said approximately 30 to 45 percent of care delivered at WRNMMC is associated with cancer screening, prevention or the cure of patients with cancer. “All departments are involved, from radiology to internal medicine. These people are the best and highly trained.” Excellence in training is another area Shriver has been recognized, having been promoted to professor of surgery at USU in 2008. Also in his role as NCC director of its general surgery residency training program, he prepares doctors to be world-class surgeons within the Department of Defense in order to care for
1037795
Thursday, April 11, 2013 wounded warriors and their families. Yu, as a colleague of Shriver for more than 10 years, describes him as “a dedicated Soldier, surgeon, teacher and researcher who embodies what it is to be an academic physician and military medical officer. It is people like him who make WRNMMC an academic medical center on the cutting edge of medical care, research and education. He is totally committed to training current and future generations of military surgeons to ensure that the best care is available to military members and their families. “Physician leaders like him have many opportunities to pursue prestigious and lucrative leadership opportunities outside of the military, but instead choose to stay because of their dedication to our mission of taking care of our nation’s past and present heroes and their families,” Yu added. Another one of Shriver’s colleagues, Army Col. Michael R. Nelson, deputy commander for Education, Training and Research at WRNMMC, agrees. “I’ve known Col. Shriver for more than 10 years. He is a visionary, model educator and leader, inspiring all those who work with him and whom he trains. He is so very well deserving of this prestigious [Courage to Teach] award, placing him amongst the nation’s most elite educators. “His selfless service and dedication to those he leads is legendary,” Nelson added. “It was no surprise to me that during his humble acceptance [of the Courage to Teach award], he refused to accept the honor as an individual and accepted it on behalf of all military healthcare educators and providers.”
9
COURSE Continued from 3 was helpful and explained how she’ll use what she learns on her job. “It’ll give me a better idea of the resources that are available here that I can use for future research,” she said. The state-of-the-art biomedical laboratory at WRNMMC where the biology short course was conducted supports clinical research for studies in the disciplines of biochemistry, molecular and cell biology, along with immunology. There are currently 28 active laboratory research studies underway at the WRNMMC Biomedical Research Laboratory, according to Murphy. Casteline explained the lab includes advanced equipment available to clinical staff and researchers at WRNMMC, as well as the military medical community lab, like the NEX-ion mass spectrometer, an instrument used to determine elements in the composition of a sample. The mechanism breaks down heavy metals on the cellular level and provides molecular weight and traces heavy metals. According to Casteline, the molecular biology short course may be offered again this fall, and then possibly annually or biannually. Also in the area of research, the Department of Research Program, under the auspices of Education, Training and Research, will host Research and Innovation Week April 16-22. Activities will include a poster competition, research symposium and summit. For more information, contact Deborah Murphy at 301-295-8231, or deborah.a.murphy.ctr@health.mil.
10
Thursday, April 11, 2013
The Journal
SNAKE Continued from 6 ca, Asia and Latin America to gather information for his presentation on snake bite epidemiology. “It’s helpful when we learn about venomous snakes to learn about their biology and their geography. We’ll talk about the occurrence and effects of their bites and we’ll meet venomous snakes from all over the world.” From anacondas and copperheads, to rattlesnakes, vipers, pythons and cobras – Schwedick then brought out each type of snake and discussed their behavior and the risk and severity of their bite. A snake bite “may not be as problematic (for the masses) as malaria and many other tropical diseases,” he explained, “but for
Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Nathan Parde
A closer look would reveal four small openings below the rattlesnake’s eyes. These are the snake’s “pit organs,” which use thermal radiation to detect and target warm-blooded prey, such as rodents and birds. A rattlesnake can detect prey that are as little as 1/10 of a degree warmer than their background. that one patient that is facing a life threatening or altering condition, being able to provide a proper medical treatment for a venomous snake bite is very important.”
Shwedick said his hope in bringing this program to USU each year is that he can help medical students broaden their knowledge in this specific field. Having the opportunity to present
Legal Services
to those medical students makes him feel like he is serving his country. “If I were to live my life over again, there’s no doubt in my mind that I would join the service,” he said.
Legal Services
Legal Services
The Law Offices of Burch & Voss
* Military Law * Family Law * Personal Injury Larry N. Burch Ronald K.Voss Former Navy JAG
301-474-4468
MILITARY DISCOUNT
CALL FOR AN INITIAL CONSULTATION WWW.BURCHANDVOSS.COM
T6611220
1038129T
“Helping the People who Serve and their Families.”
“So, this is how I have been serving for three decades now: by helping our military medical students be better prepared for treating venomous snake bites.” When asked if there was one thing that he would like medical students to take from his presentation, Shwedick answered: “Become familiar with the venomous snakes in the areas of operation you become assigned to; become familiar with the ones that do most of the biting; and become familiar with the symptoms of envenomation and the effective methods of medical treatment so that you are prepared when you are faced with that situation some day.” For more information about Reptile Discovery Programs, visit www.reptilediscovery.com or for information about USU, visit www.usuhs.mil.
The Journal
Thursday, April 11, 2013
Tr out and Salmon Trout Season has A rr rriv ived ed Again Arrived and I’m offering a
MILITARY DISCOUNT 10% and a
PURPLE HEART RECIPIENT
20% off on a day of fishing
Lodging available, multi-day trips available, located on Sodus Bay in Wolcott, NY. Website
www.mywaycharters.com My Way Charters
Capt. David Urban 315-729-2448
mywaycharters@gmail.com 1038381
1038383
11
12
Thursday, April 11, 2013
The Journal
1038307