Evergreen Monitor - Winter 2012 by Gail Neubert

Winter 2012

“ I’m taking you straight to the hospital.” That turned out to be a good call, as Carmen Varnado-Wixx went into cardiac arrest after she arrived in the emergency department. page 3

“I didn’t want a 15 inch scar.” breakthrough knee replacement at evergreen page 4 Are you an Evergreen baby? Send your photo and join our 40th anniversary celebration! page 10 Evergreen Hospital Medical Center in Kirkland, including Home Health and Hospice • 24-hour Emergency Care in Redmond Urgent Care in Redmond and Woodinville • Primary Care in Redmond, Woodinville, Canyon Park, Duvall, Kenmore and Sammamish

M E S SAG E F R O M T H E C E O

CARDIAC SERVICES

“ I’m taking you straight to the hospital.”

Happy New Year! Bob Malte, CEO

Carmen Varnado-Wixx first met Evergreen cardiologist

2012 is not just any “new year” for Evergreen – this is our 40th new year!

Cynthia Warner two years ago, when her mother began

As we reflect on this milestone year, I can’t help but be thankful to those founding visionaries who had

seeing Dr. Warner for treatment of heart disease.

the foresight to sow the seeds for what has become a world-class health organization right here in

Varnado-Wixx had no idea then that Dr. Warner would

Kirkland. As the Eastside has grown and developed into a world-class community, Evergreen has grown

one day be saving her life with a clutch diagnosis in

and developed with it.

the Emergency Department.

This edition of Evergreen Monitor, like those before it, is dedicated to you and to our community as one of many sources of information Evergreen offers to help support and guide you in your health. We wish you good health and a fulfilling year, and the comfort of knowing Evergreen and its physicians, staff and volunteers are always here to help you make that wish a reality.

Carmen Varnado-Wixx

Redmond

Sincerely,

Bob Malte Chief Executive Officer

The 54-year old Varnado-Wixx had been suffering from some shoulder pain. Then she began feeling nauseous and started to vomit, which she attributed to eating some bad pizza.

That turned out to be a good call. As her workup was being initiated in the ED, Varnado-Wixx went into full cardiac arrest. She was resuscitated by Dr. Steven Connelly and then taken to the cardiac catheterization lab by Dr. Warner, who happened to be the cardiologist on call.

Evergreen welcomes these new members of the medical staff: Cardiology – Pediatric Mariska Kemna, MD Diagnostic Radiology Eric Borgnes, MD William Jones, MD Laghaieh Rezvanzi, MD Pooja Voria, MD Family Medicine Vasudha Kaushik, MD Hospitalist – Adult Laura Johnson, MD

Hospitalist – Pediatric Frances Prekker, MD Rebecca Taxier, MD Whitney Waite, MD

Pediatrics Eric Gustafson, MD Richard Keeler, MD

Internal Medicine Muhammad Zubair, MD

Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Brandon Messerli, DO

Neurology Daniel Burdick, MD

Podiatry Clayton Johnsen, DPM

Ophthalmology Michael Chappell, MD Henry Lee, MD

Psychiatry Cecilia Margret, MD Mabel Onwuka, MD

Find more Evergreen-affiliated providers at www.evergreenhospital.org/physician.

Her husband urged her to go to the Emergency Department, but Varnado-Wixx made an appointment with her primary care physician instead. On the drive there, her husband said, “Change of plans… I’m taking you straight to the hospital.”

A TRICKY DIAGNOSIS One of Varnado-Wixx’s arteries was 99 percent blocked…but that wasn’t her only life-threatening problem. Luckily for her, Dr. Warner recognized the uncommon combination of cardiac crises that resulted in her symptoms and brought her to the hospital in the first place. “Carmen was suffering from a rare condition called stress-induced cardiomyopathy, which is also known as broken heart syndrome,” Dr. Warner explains. “The onset is frequently triggered by an intense emotional or physical stress. It causes rapid, and often severe, heart muscle weakness, which decreases the heart’s pumping function and increases the chance it can go into lethal heart rhythms.” In Varnado-Wixx’s case, recent physical stresses had left her heart pumping at just half its normal function. According to Dr. Warner, she is one of the very rare people who have both stress-induced cardiomyopathy and coronary disease at the same time.

“The diagnosis of stress-induced cardiomyopathy can be tricky,” Dr. Warner says, “because the initial presentation is very similar to that of an acute heart attack and may account for about 2 percent of suspected acute coronary syndromes.” It’s more common in females, usually postmenopausal women, and is rarely seen with an already existing coronary blockage. “Stress-induced cardiomyopathy is treatable,” Dr. Warner notes. “With good medical treatment, patients who survive the acute episode can recover the heart’s pumping function.” A stent was placed in Varnado-Wixx’s blocked coronary artery. She was placed on heart failure medications and began Evergreen’s cardiac rehabilitation program. “I learned about the symptoms of a heart attack, the nutritionist has taught me about healthier food options, and we exercised three times a week,” she says. A month later, followup tests showed that her heart function had returned to normal. Cynthia Warner, MD

“she saved my life.” “I’m so grateful that my cardiac arrest happened in the ED and not in the car,” Varnado-Wixx shares, “and grateful that Dr. Warner had the expertise to uncover the stress-induced cardiomyopathy.” “With my family history, I knew I was probably going to need Dr. Warner’s care sooner or later,” Varnado-Wixx adds. “I just didn’t know it was going to be sooner. She saved my life.” For more information on cardiac care at Evergreen, visit www.evergreenhospital.org/cardiac

M E S SAG E F R O M T H E C E O

CARDIAC SERVICES

“ I’m taking you straight to the hospital.”

Happy New Year! Bob Malte, CEO

Carmen Varnado-Wixx first met Evergreen cardiologist

2012 is not just any “new year” for Evergreen – this is our 40th new year!

Cynthia Warner two years ago, when her mother began

As we reflect on this milestone year, I can’t help but be thankful to those founding visionaries who had

seeing Dr. Warner for treatment of heart disease.

the foresight to sow the seeds for what has become a world-class health organization right here in

Varnado-Wixx had no idea then that Dr. Warner would

Kirkland. As the Eastside has grown and developed into a world-class community, Evergreen has grown

one day be saving her life with a clutch diagnosis in

and developed with it.

the Emergency Department.

Carmen Varnado-Wixx

Redmond

Sincerely,

Bob Malte Chief Executive Officer

The 54-year old Varnado-Wixx had been suffering from some shoulder pain. Then she began feeling nauseous and started to vomit, which she attributed to eating some bad pizza.

Hospitalist – Pediatric Frances Prekker, MD Rebecca Taxier, MD Whitney Waite, MD

Pediatrics Eric Gustafson, MD Richard Keeler, MD

Internal Medicine Muhammad Zubair, MD

Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Brandon Messerli, DO

Neurology Daniel Burdick, MD

Podiatry Clayton Johnsen, DPM

Ophthalmology Michael Chappell, MD Henry Lee, MD

Psychiatry Cecilia Margret, MD Mabel Onwuka, MD

Find more Evergreen-affiliated providers at www.evergreenhospital.org/physician.

O RT H O P E D I C S E RV I C E S

Minimally Invasive Surgery For Hips, Shoulders “ I didn’t want a 15 inch scar.” Fifty-three-year-old Naomi Marquez-Blake has spent 23 years in the ministry, leading a congregation that has kept her on her feet, and on the go, seven days a week. She’d battled knee problems over the years, and a fall in late 2010 showed arthritis had taken a devastating toll on her right knee.

ORTHOPEDIC SERVICES

Advanced minimally invasive surgical techniques are also available at Evergreen for total hip replacement and a wide variety of shoulder repairs. “It used to be that total hip replacement required an incision of 12 inches or longer, and at least a week in the hospital,” says surgeon Jeff Stickney of the Evergreen Orthopedic Clinic. “Now the incision is half the size, and people go home in two days.” Dr. Stickney says the changes in hip replacement have to do with two things – the first being the miniaturization of the surgical instruments. The smaller incisions mean less pain, fewer complications and an earlier rehabilitation. “But the most important evolution has been in the design and the materials of the hip replacement itself,” he explains. “That gives us new hips with a better range of motion, lower dislocation rates and a longer life.”

While shoulder replacement is not available as a minimally invasive procedure, virtually all other shoulder procedures can be done with an incision less than a Jeff Stickney, MD Samuel Koo, MD, MPH centimeter long. “We’re doing massive rotator cuff repairs and revisions, and repairing chronic instability,” says surgeon Samuel Koo of Orthopedics International. “The tiny incision means less scar tissue, less pain and often faster recovery.” Dr. Koo adds that the use of HD technology allows the surgeons to magnify the small structures in the shoulder so they are better able to access and repair them. To find an Evergreen-affiliated orthopedic surgeon, visit www.evergreenhospital.org/physician or call the Evergreen Healthline at 425.899.3000.

Ortho Rehabilitation One-on-One Care Naomi Marquez-Blake

Woodinville

Dr. Craig McAllister of the Evergreen Orthopedic Center recommended a total knee replacement – a minimally invasive, computer-navigated knee replacement. This procedure uses miniaturized instruments and surgical strategies developed at Evergreen, many by Dr. McAllister himself. Combined with the precision of computer navigation, it yields groundbreaking results. Evergreen was the first hospital in the state, and among the first in the country, to offer the revolutionary surgery, in 2003. Even now, nine years later, Dr. McAllister says, “The truth is, almost nobody gets the minimally invasive, computer-navigated knee replacement unless they come to Evergreen. It’s what Evergreen is known for.”

BACK ON HER FEET As part of her ministry, Marquez-Blake visits hospitalized congregation members, including three who had total knee replacements in the weeks before hers. They were in the hospital three to four days, then in a care facility for an additional two weeks. One woman even showed Marquez-Blake her 15-inch scar. “I was horrified,” Marquez-Blake recalls. Craig McAllister, MD “Dr. McAllister and I never talked about a 15-inch scar. We never talked about four days in the hospital.” That’s because, Dr. McAllister reassured her, she’d be going home the next day. And the scar? It would be just 4 inches long, thanks to the minimally invasive techniques, which also meant less blood loss, less pain and a faster recovery. And that’s exactly what she got. Marquez-Blake’s surgery was on a

Tuesday, and she was back at church, preaching, the following Sunday. “It was amazing,” Marquez-Blake marvels. “My recovery was very different from that of the people in my church who’d had the traditional knee-replacement surgery. And things got better weekly – dramatically better every week.” BREAKTHROUGH CARE FOR KNEE REPLACEMENT Dr. McAllister has now done close to 1,200 knee-replacement surgeries using the same state-of-the-art techniques he used with Naomi Marquez-Blake. “To have a knee that feels smooth and stable and goes through a whole range of motion – that’s the Holy Grail of knee replacement,” he states. “And then to have that knee be well aligned and have it last on the order of 20 years – well, you can’t get much better than that.” The rest of the country is beginning to notice. “The prestigious Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery just published back-to-back articles confirming that computer navigation is the gold standard for knee replacements,” Dr. McAllister shares, “and Evergreen has been doing it for nine years.” Visiting surgeons come to Evergreen to learn these advanced techniques. Dr. McAllister points out that providing these breakthrough techniques takes a great deal of commitment from both the surgeons, to learn the new techniques, and the hospitals, to provide the instruments and train the surgical staff. As for Naomi Marquez-Blake, she couldn’t be happier. “I had a wonderful outcome with this knee. I’m so grateful.” For more information, visit www.evergreenhospital.org/ortho or call the Evergreen Healthline at 425.899.3000

A successful recovery from joint replacement surgery – or any orthopedic injury – includes a rehabilitation program. At Evergreen, the transition to rehab is seamless, thanks to the specialized orthopedic unit that’s part of Evergreen Rehabilitation Services. The rehab phase starts about two weeks after surgery with a thorough evaluation Philip Vande Pol, PT of not just the repaired area, but the rest of the extremity and body. “We don’t just look at a knee or a hip, we look at how the leg functions as a part of the body and form our therapy plan around that,” explains Philip Vande Pol, one of five physical therapists working in orthopedic rehab. “The injured joint has a profound impact on other joints. For example, a hip problem could lead to back pain from limping.”

For the first month of rehab, patients will come in twice a week for 45 minutes. They’ll do exercises and activities to improve joint motion and lower-extremity function, and receive some manual therapy to assist with joint mobility. Patients are also given a home exercise program that increases in difficulty as rehab progresses, and continues with them after discharge from the outpatient program. Unlike some rehab centers, Evergreen doesn’t use aides to treat patients. “Every visit is one-on-one time with your physical therapist,” Vande Pol adds. “This allows for appropriate interventions to occur at the appropriate rate and time to restore function.” In addition, Rehabilitation Services’ state-of-the-art facility in the DeYoung Pavilion provides not only a full range of equipment, but a complete range of therapies to meet any need a patient might have. “This all adds up to a smoother transition for our patients,” Vande Pol says. For more information on Evergreen Rehabilitation Services, call 425.899.1960 or visit www.evergreenhospital.org/rehab.

BREAKTHROUGH SEMINARS CONSIDERING KNEE

MINIMALLY INVASIVE

Meet our surgeons and learn

OR HIP REPLACEMENT?

SURGICAL TECHNIQUES

about our minimally invasive

FOR THE SHOULDER

surgical techniques and

Thursday, Jan. 26 or Thursday, Feb. 23

Thursday, April 26

6:30-8:30 p.m. Free

6:30-8 p.m. Free

comprehensive joint program. Register online at www.evergreenhospital.org/ortho or call 425.899.3000.

O RT H O P E D I C S E RV I C E S

ORTHOPEDIC SERVICES

Ortho Rehabilitation One-on-One Care Naomi Marquez-Blake

Woodinville

BREAKTHROUGH SEMINARS CONSIDERING KNEE

MINIMALLY INVASIVE

Meet our surgeons and learn

OR HIP REPLACEMENT?

SURGICAL TECHNIQUES

about our minimally invasive

FOR THE SHOULDER

surgical techniques and

Thursday, Jan. 26 or Thursday, Feb. 23

Thursday, April 26

6:30-8:30 p.m. Free

6:30-8 p.m. Free

comprehensive joint program. Register online at www.evergreenhospital.org/ortho or call 425.899.3000.

critical care

NEUROSCIENCES

5-Star rated and ranked #2 in Washington state for neurosciences.

~ HealthGrades 2012 Hospital Quality in America Study

“ I knew I had my wife back.” “ I feel so blessed to have found the MS Center.”

It had been a busy day for Becky Cole. Eight months pregnant, she had taken care of her three older children and found time to volunteer at school. Then, on her

It was 2007 – 16 years after Diane Messing had been

way to bed that night, she passed out. She remembers

diagnosed with multiple sclerosis – and the disease was

nothing about the next harrowing hours.

increasingly affecting her mobility. “I needed to find a different kind of care,” she says, “because the care I was getting wasn’t taking me anywhere.”

Diane Messing

Becky and Ryan Cole

Kirkland

So Messing turned to the MS Center at Evergreen. “I’d heard wonderful things about Evergreen’s MS Center, and that they were doing good things for people with MS.” Messing’s care was handled by Dr. Ted Brown, the center’s director of neurorehabilitation. “Diane has moderately severe MS from a mobility standpoint,” he explains. “That’s where she benefits from our very comprehensive approach. We don’t just prescribe a medication. We prescribe a whole wellness program that also includes targeted exercise to address the person’s specific impairment and help maximize their independence.” The combination of medication and exercise – along with Messing’s motivation – has stabilized her condition and helped her maintain her flexibility. She utilizes both physical and occupational therapy to cope with the challenges of MS – and even takes a weekly therapeutic yoga class at the MS Center.

Ted Brown, MD, MPH

“If I’d had this type of guidance early on,” she says, “it would have made a huge difference in the progression of my disability.”

BREAKTHROUGH RESEARCH AND CLINICAL TRIALS The MS Center is ideally positioned to provide this comprehensive approach. Specialists are housed under one roof at the expansive DeYoung Pavilion on the Evergreen campus, all part of the Evergreen Neuroscience Institute. Leading-edge medical services, innovative therapies, rehabilitative services and clinical trials are all conveniently located for people living with a variety of neurological disorders.

But it’s not just the direct and convenient access to expert providers that sets Evergreen’s MS Center apart. “Our state-of-the-art facility is also conducive to pioneering research and clinical trials,” Dr. Brown notes. “We have well-designed rooms, we have the equipment, we have a lab, we have a research pharmacist – all those are critical in carrying out our work.” So are willing patients like Diane Messing. She eagerly agreed to take part in a study on a new medication to see if it might improve walking speed for people with MS in their everyday lives. It’s a study being conducted only at Evergreen’s MS Center, and nowhere else. “Because Washington has one of the highest rates of MS in the nation, the research that we’re conducting and the fact that we’re a comprehensive MS Center is a real magnet for patients,” Dr. Brown says. “We have two neurologists with great expertise who are solely involved in diagnosing and treating MS. People know that they can come here and get cutting edge treatment, information and comprehensive care.” HELPING OTHERS Now, four years later, 66-year-old Diane Messing continues to receive leading-edge medical services and innovative therapies, and her participation in clinical trials could ultimately benefit people like her in Western Washington, and around the world. “I feel so very blessed to have found the MS Center and all the resources that it offers,” she enthuses. “I can’t imagine any place where I’d be in better hands.” For more information on the MS Center at Evergreen, please call 425.899.5350 or visit www.evergreenhospital.org/MS.

Husband Jon Cole, however, remembers every excruciating detail. With the help of the 9-1-1 operator, Jon performed CPR until the paramedics arrived. Becky’s heart had to be shocked five times before it started beating on its own again. At Evergreen Hospital, the emergency department team was waiting and worked to stabilize Becky. Her care was then turned over to hospitalist Dr. David Likosky. “Everyone there, from all the different specialties, worked together to give Becky and the baby the best chance to make it through,” Dr. Likosky says. Jon Cole was impressed by the teamwork. “They all consulted together very carefully and were all talking very quickly through everything,” he recalls. “They were able to make critical decisions very quickly because they were all right there.” CRITICAL CARE UNIT “Within the first 90 minutes at the hospital, Becky was seen by five different specialists, had an echocardiogram, and delivered baby Ryan by Cesarean section,” Dr. Likosky shares. “Then she was transferred to the Critical Care Unit (CCU).” Patients in Evergreen’s 20-bed CCU receive highly concentrated and specialized care from the onsite intensivists – physicians trained and board-certified to deal with critically ill patients. “Before intensivists, the family doctor would make rounds and see the patient in the morning and evening,” explains Dr. Michael Eulberg, the CCU’s medical director. “But you really need a doctor there all the time to monitor the patient’s fluctuations during the day and make on-the-spot treatment decisions as needed.”

Woodinville The CCU’s nurses also play a pivotal role. “They all have advanced training to handle critically ill patients,” Dr. Eulberg notes. “Each nurse will have just one or two patients to care for during their shift. They do an excellent job.”

Evergreen’s critical care unit has been recognized with the Critical Care Excellence Award by HealthGrades, the nation’s leading provider of independent hospital ratings. “THIS IS A MIRACULOUS RESULT.” Becky Cole spent four days in the CCU with full ventilator support and round-the-clock cardiovascular monitoring that included a pulmonary artery catheter, electrolyte replacement and blood transfusions. Questions remained about possible neurological damage. Jon was able to stay at her side 24/7. “I David Likosky, MD and remember telling this stupid joke...and Michael Eulberg, MD Becky rolled her eyes,” he recalls. “That was the moment I knew I had my wife back.” Just six days after her cardiac arrest, Becky went home...with a defibrillator implanted in her chest. Baby Ryan joined her a week later, and both are doing great. “Over and over we heard the phrase, ‘This is a miraculous result,’” a grateful Jon Cole shares. “Evergreen did everything it could to make sure they would get well and come back home.”

critical care

NEUROSCIENCES

5-Star rated and ranked #2 in Washington state for neurosciences.

~ HealthGrades 2012 Hospital Quality in America Study

“ I knew I had my wife back.” “ I feel so blessed to have found the MS Center.”

It had been a busy day for Becky Cole. Eight months pregnant, she had taken care of her three older children and found time to volunteer at school. Then, on her

It was 2007 – 16 years after Diane Messing had been

way to bed that night, she passed out. She remembers

diagnosed with multiple sclerosis – and the disease was

nothing about the next harrowing hours.

increasingly affecting her mobility. “I needed to find a different kind of care,” she says, “because the care I was getting wasn’t taking me anywhere.”

Diane Messing

Becky and Ryan Cole

Kirkland

Ted Brown, MD, MPH

“If I’d had this type of guidance early on,” she says, “it would have made a huge difference in the progression of my disability.”

U P DAT E S F R O M E V E R G R E E N H E A LT H C A R E

Construction Underway on New Cancer Center

Good Health Is In Our Hands

MAKOplasty® – A New Treatment for Debilitating Knee Pain

If you’ve been to Evergreen Hospital recently, you’ve noticed the “Clean Zone” posters in our lobbies and on our elevators. They are there to remind all of us to practice the best and most important way of preventing infection and its transmission – washing our hands.

For many years, Orthopedics at Evergreen has been leading in technology, innovation and outcomes – redefining the standard for knee replacement surgery. (See story on page 4.) Evergreen is also a destination learning center for surgeons from around the country who come here specifically to learn minimally invasive surgery and computer navigated techniques.

Every doctor, nurse and health care worker at Evergreen is proud of our low rate of infection. We also know that one preventable infection in our hospital is one too many. So everyone here wants to be reminded to do the right thing. Maintaining the Clean Zone is just part of our commitment to seeking absolute safety for our patients. We ask our patients and their families to help us. Sanitize your own hands frequently, and ask your caregivers if they have sanitized theirs before they touch you or touch things that are used in your care. They’ll be glad that you did. MAINTAIN A “CLEAN ZONE” AT HOME We encourage you to follow good hygiene practices at home to prevent the spread of germs. Construction is under way on the new Evergreen Elling & Barbara Halvorson Cancer Center, which will be located at Evergreen Hospital. The new center will both expand and consolidate the well-regarded cancer care provided by Evergreen Cancer Services. The new facility will enable us to continue providing breakthrough care by providing the best technology, expanding access, and bringing all facets of a patient’s cancer treatment together in one patient-centered location. For the next several months, we’ll be creating some detours around the construction area in the hospital’s red, green and purple zones. The detour routes will be well marked, and volunteers and staff members will be happy to help you. We apologize for the temporary inconvenience, but we think you’ll agree the new cancer center will be more than worth it. The detour routes will change during the construction phases. You can get information and see maps of the current detour routes at www.evergreenhospital.org/newcancercenter.

Help Us Reach 4,000 Followers You can help us reach our goal of 4,000 followers on Twitter and Facebook by our 40th anniversary in March. “Follow” us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/#!/EvergreenHosp

“Like” us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/evergreenhospital.org Both Twitter and Facebook will provide you with health news and information, plus the latest on Evergreen classes, seminars and events.

UPDATES FROM EVERGREEN HEALTHCARE

Wash your hands before: • preparing food • eating • treating wounds or giving medicine • touching an injured or sick person • inserting or removing contact lenses Wash your hands after: • preparing food • using the toilet Bob Geise, MD and Pia Kilts are among • changing a diaper the Evergreen employees featured in our • touching an animal, animal “Clean Zone” posters as recognition for toys, leashes, or waste their role modeling with hand hygiene. • blowing your nose • coughing or sneezing into your hands • treating wounds • touching an injured or sick person • handling garbage or anything else that could be contaminated What’s the best way to keep hands clean? • Wet your hands with running water. • Apply soap—whether liquid, bar or powdered. • Rub your hands vigorously about 10 times or for 20 seconds, approximately the time it takes you to sing “Happy Birthday” twice. Rub all the way back to your wrists and out to the tips of your fingers. • Rinse your hands under the running water. • Dry your hands thoroughly with a clean towel, air dryer or disposable towel.

Evergreen is now home to the very newest, most innovative robotic technology for a procedure called MAKOplasty®. It uses a surgeon-

Breakthrough Care Recognized for Excellence

actuated robotic arm to resurface the knee while sparing the healthy bone and ligaments around it. Evergreen surgeons performed the Eastside’s first MAKOplasty procedure last November. MAKOplasty is a treatment option for adults living with osteoarthritis in either the medial (inner), patellofemoral (top), or lateral (outer) compartments of the knee. It is a minimally invasive alternative to knee replacement, to help patients alleviate knee pain and return to their activities with breakthrough results. If you think you might be a candidate for MAKOplasty, call the Evergreen Healthline at 425.899.3000 for referral to an Evergreenaffiliated surgeon. MAKOplasty is typically covered by most Medicare-approved and private health insurers.

Key HealthGrades Rankings #1 in Washington for Treatment of Stroke #2 in Washington for Neurosciences #3 in Washington for Overall Pulmonary Care

HealthGrades 5-STAR RATINGS Maternity Care (for 8 years in a row) Treatment of Pneumonia (for 7 years in a row) Treatment of GI Bleed (for 4 years in a row) Treatment of Appendectomy (for 4 years in a row)

When making health care decisions, it’s always wise to seek a second opinion – like the 2012 HealthGrades Hospital Quality in America report, which recognizes several Evergreen programs for outstanding medical care and patient outcomes. For the third year in a row, HealthGrades ranks Evergreen Hospital as #1 in the state for treatment of stroke. Both the stroke and pulmonary programs have been recognized with the HealthGrades Excellence Award, meaning they are rated in the top 5% of hospitals in the nation. Here are highlights of Evergreen’s 2012 HealthGrades awards. For a complete listing, visit www.evergreenhospital.org/healthgrades.

Treatment of Stroke (for 3 years in a row) Treatment of Sepsis (for 3 years in a row) Treatment of Respiratory Failure (for 3 years in a row) Treatment of Heart Failure (for 2 years in a row) Overall Pulmonary Services (for 2 years in a row) Treatment of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Gynecologic Surgery Neurosciences HealthGrades is an independent company that rates the quality of care at 5,000 hospitals nationwide. Each year, its Hospital Quality in America study gives each hospital a rating based on its patient outcomes in terms of mortality or complication rates for 27 different procedures or treatments. Health care consumers can go to the HealthGrades website (www.healthgrades.com) and compare the patient outcomes at their local hospitals for these procedures.

Eat Well...Play More! While Evergreen and our incredible staff are always here for those times when your body needs intervention and help, we are even more committed to helping you stay well. That’s why we created the Eat Well. Play More. program. Eat Well. Play More. is all about eating delicious, good-for-you foods and being physically active – while having fun doing it! You can get started by visiting our website at www.evergreenhospital. org/eatwellplaymore. That’s where we post new information to help

www.evergreenhospital.org/eatwellplaymore

your family eat healthier and find ways to be physically active together. You’ll find loads of interesting recipes to help you introduce healthier foods into your family’s diet.

This summer, our Eat Well. Play More. booth will be back at local farmers markets, festivals, soccer tournaments, and community walks, rides and runs.

U P DAT E S F R O M E V E R G R E E N H E A LT H C A R E

Construction Underway on New Cancer Center

Good Health Is In Our Hands

MAKOplasty® – A New Treatment for Debilitating Knee Pain

UPDATES FROM EVERGREEN HEALTHCARE

Evergreen is now home to the very newest, most innovative robotic technology for a procedure called MAKOplasty®. It uses a surgeon-

Breakthrough Care Recognized for Excellence

Key HealthGrades Rankings #1 in Washington for Treatment of Stroke #2 in Washington for Neurosciences #3 in Washington for Overall Pulmonary Care

www.evergreenhospital.org/eatwellplaymore

your family eat healthier and find ways to be physically active together. You’ll find loads of interesting recipes to help you introduce healthier foods into your family’s diet.

This summer, our Eat Well. Play More. booth will be back at local farmers markets, festivals, soccer tournaments, and community walks, rides and runs.

U P DAT E S F R O M E V E R G R E E N H O S P I TA L

Evergreen Physicians Recognized as “Top Docs”

We have hundreds of top doctors at Evergreen, and some of them have been selected as best in their field. Congratulations, all! Cliff Rogers, MD

Derek M. Rodrigues, MD

Seattle Met Magazine’s “Top Docs 2011”

Michael Hunter, MD

Clifford W. Rogers, MD

Ronald Abrams, MD

Sunil K. Saluja, MD

Diane Ack, MD

Marion C. Johnson, MD

David Russian, MD

Josephine Amory, MD

Gwen Seaver, MD

Cynthia Anonsen, MD

Harry A. Kahn, MD

Patrick Ryan, MD

Ray Baker, MD

Chirag A. Shah, MD

Kathryn Arendt, MD

Janet L. Kennedy, MD

Jack C. Salerno, MD

Sara Benda, MD

Lorena Shih, MD

Garrison H. Ayars, MD

Bart Keogh, MD, PhD

Robert S. Sawin, MD

Kurt Billett, MD

Dyan M. Simon, MD

Rick Badura, MD

Elias E. Khalfayan, MD

James Schneider, MD

Theodore R. Brown, MD, MPH

Greg Sliman, MD

Oliver Biggers, MD

Kelan Koenig, MD

Daniel Seely, MD

Terrance Chun, MD

Stephen Tilles, MD

James K. Brevig, MD

Alice L. Kuntz, MD

Peter V. Sefton, MD

Howard Colston, MD

Jeff J. Tomlin, MD

Mary Brumfiel, MD

Peter Kures, MD

Connie J. Smith, MD

Stephen R. Cuplin, MD

Dean C. Walund, MD

Paul E. Buehrens, MD

Barry M. Lawson, MD

James Song, MD, PhD

Eric J. Demers, MD

Mitch Weinberg, MD, PhD

Maura Cardwell, MD

Samson Lee, MD

Jeffrey Stolz, MD

Mary Dion, MD

Arthur Castagno, MD

Mark Lewin, MD

Thomas Takayama, MD

Wayne L. Hill, MD

Joseph E. Chebli, MD

Rubin R. Maidan, MD

Dan Steven Veljovich, MD

Garrett Hyman, MD

Stephen J. Chentow, MD

Gandis G. Mazeika, MD

Pedro Vieco, MD

Larisa A. Kaukonen, MD

Angela J. Chien, MD

Robert Michaelson, MD, PhD

Mark R. Vossler, MD

Mary M. Kelly, MD

Maria Chong, MD

Howard G. Muntz, MD

John Waldhausen, MD

Peter J. Lallas, DPM

Kelly Clinch, MD

Joseph Nakahara, MD

Martin Walker, MD

Mark B. Lewin, MD

Gordon Cohen, MD, PhD

Richard Neiman, MD

Peter Wall, MD

Carolyn Marquardt, MD

Roberta DeRegt, MD

Gregory J. Norling, MD

Josephine Wang, MD

Terry J. Mengert, MD

Gavin M. Dry, MD

Richard Pelman, MD

Mitchell Weinberg, MD, PhD

Howard Muntz, MD

Sally Esser, MD

Daniel Pepper, MD

Michael E. Weiss, MD

Rolf Olsoy, MD

William S. Getchell, MD

Lester Permut, MD

Harry Yu, MD

Terrence A. Pheifer, MD

Michael L. Gilbert, MD

William A. Peters III, MD

David Zunkel, MD

Glenn I. Powers, MD

US News & World Report 2011 “Top Docs”

Peter Hashisaki, MD

Eric Pinczower, MD

Edwin I. Hatch, Jr., MD

Kim R. Pittenger, MD

Robert Haynes, MD

Paul Abson, MD

U.S. News & World Report: http://health.usnews.com/top-doctors Seattle Met: http://www.seattlemet.com/health-and-fitness/articles/2011-top-doctors-august-2011/

Are You an Evergreen Baby? Send Your Photo for our 40th Anniversary Celebration! Evergreen Hospital marks its 40th anniversary in 2012, and we want you to be part of the celebration. We’ll be showcasing photos of the great babies born at Evergreen since we first opened our doors on March 9, 1972. To be part of the fun, send us either a baby photo or a photo showing you today. The photos will be part of a display during our anniversary year. For more information about how to submit your photo, please visit www.evergreenhospital.org/evergreenbabies.

CLASSES

For your convenience, you may register and pay for classes 24/7 online at www.evergreenhospital.org/classes. You may also call the Evergreen Healthline at 425.899.3000, Mon.-Fri., 7 a.m.-7 p.m.

Pre-registration is required for all classes. Checks, VISA and MasterCard are accepted. Refunds and rescheduling will only be given for cancellations two business days prior to the class. Let us know if you need special accommodations to participate.

Robert Roskin, MD Sam Salama, MD

PARENTING & RELATIONSHIPS PARENTING WITH POSITIVE DISCIPLINE Use mutual respect to improve behavior. Defuse power struggles. Increase cooperation. Learn how to be kind and firm at the same time. Seven-week series begins Feb. 12, 1-3 p.m., $150 includes Positive Discipline workbook. Register at parenting@youtheastsideservices.org or 425.747.4937. Period Prep for Parents of Girls Prepare for your daughter’s changing mind and body, first period and having the birds and the bees talk. Feb. 1, 6:30-8:30 p.m.; The Dot Girl First Period Kit included in price of class, $30. DEALING WITH ANGER Discover more effective ways to express your feelings and make your response a choice rather than a reaction. Three-part class begins Jan. 18, 6:30-8:30 p.m., $30. DEALING WITH Difficult People Learn strategies to maintain your comfort with challenging people, including giving and receiving feedback. Two-part class begins Feb. 8, 6:30-8:30 p.m., $20.

Emergency & Safety Education Babysitting Basics For ages 11 to 16. Jan. 21, Feb. 18, Mar. 17, Apr. 21, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., $40. Infant and Child CPR Participants receive a CPR card valid for two years. Jan. 14, Feb. 11, Mar. 10, Apr. 14, 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m., or Jan. 17, Feb. 21, Mar. 20, Apr. 14, 6-9:30 p.m., $40. $15 discount if also enrolled in Babysitting Basics.

Community CPR Participants receive a CPR card valid for two years. Jan. 28, Feb. 4, 25, Mar. 3, 24, Apr. 7, 9 a.m.12 p.m., $40. Community First Aid Participants receive a first aid card valid for two years. Jan. 28, Feb. 4, 25, Mar. 3, 24, Apr. 7, 1-5 p.m., $40. Community CPR & First Aid Participants receive a CPR and first aid card valid for two years. Jan. 28, Feb. 4, 25, Mar. 3, 24, Apr. 7, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., $75. Health Care Provider CPR Participants receive a health care provider CPR card valid for two years. Jan. 21, Feb. 18, Mar. 17, Apr. 21, 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m., or Feb. 7, Mar. 6, Apr. 3, 6-9:30 p.m., $60. Advanced Cardiac Life Support For health care providers. Two-part class begins Feb. 9, Apr. 12, 4-10 p.m., $245; includes textbook. Recertification students only need to take second day of class. Pediatric Advanced Life Support For health care providers. Twopart class begins Mar. 8, 4-10 p.m., $245; includes textbook. Recertification students only need to take second day of class.

Get a Good Night’s Sleep: Healthy Habits Learn tips for improving your sleep and discover treatment options available for sleep disorders. Mar. 13, 6:30-7:30 p.m., free. Headache Management This discussion focuses on the causes, diagnosis, management and treatments related to headache problems. Feb. 9, 6:30-8 p.m., $10. Mediterranean Diet Learn the benefits of the Mediterranean diet and how it reduces the risk of heart disease. Jan. 19, 6:30-8:30 p.m., $10. Is It My Thyroid? Fatigue, weight problems, dry skin and hair, mood swings and depression are all signs of thyroid problems. Learn about various thyroid conditions, their impacts and treatment options. Feb. 22, 6:30-8 p.m., $10. Power of Humor A humor specialist leads a fun-filled discussion on the healing power of humor and how to incorporate laughter into your life to help reduce stress and improve coping skills. Mar. 8, 6:30-8 p.m., free.

Wellness & Healthy Living MENOPAUSE: Will you follow in your mother’s footsteps? Investigate the role genetics plays in menopause and includes tips on exercise, diet and supplements; successful strategies to navigate symptoms and information on treatment options. Mar. 29, 7-8:30 p.m., $10.

“Eat Well. Play More.” is all about eating delicious, good-foryou foods and being physically active, while having fun doing it. For more healthy ideas, visit www.evergreenhospital.org/ eatwellplaymore.

Women Take Heart Join Evergreen and the HOPE Heart Institute to celebrate your commitment to feeling your best with friends, laughter, good food and pampering. Learn from our experts on heart health, nutrition, exercise and heart health issues; get blood pressure and body composition screenings; participate in exercise and dance demos; and pamper yourself with a chair massage. Feb. 4, 9 a.m.-12 p.m., $15.

WALK YOUR WAY TO WELLNESS How to maximize the benefits of walking, monitor your progress, and prevent injury to feet and joints. Jan. 31, 6:30-8 p.m., $10. HEALTHY COUPONING 101 Learn couponing basics and how to leverage your savings on drugstore items, Catalina coupons and store sale cycles to save money while purchasing wholesome food for your family. Apr. 3, 7-9 p.m., $10.

Eating Healthy on a Budget Learn tips on meal planning, best buys for cost and nutrition, tips for healthy cooking, ways to organize your shopping list and healthy recipes. Jan. 31, 6:30-8:30 p.m., $10. ACTIVE FAMILIES Engage your family in physical activities and keep them motivated. Two-part series begins Feb. 8, 7-8:30 p.m., $20 per family.

For more detailed information on each class, visit www.evergreenhospital.org/classes. Register online, or call the Evergreen Healthline at 425.899.3000 • Monday-Friday, 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.

U P DAT E S F R O M E V E R G R E E N H O S P I TA L

Evergreen Physicians Recognized as “Top Docs”

We have hundreds of top doctors at Evergreen, and some of them have been selected as best in their field. Congratulations, all! Cliff Rogers, MD

Derek M. Rodrigues, MD

Seattle Met Magazine’s “Top Docs 2011”

Michael Hunter, MD

Clifford W. Rogers, MD

Ronald Abrams, MD

Sunil K. Saluja, MD

Diane Ack, MD

Marion C. Johnson, MD

David Russian, MD

Josephine Amory, MD

Gwen Seaver, MD

Cynthia Anonsen, MD

Harry A. Kahn, MD

Patrick Ryan, MD

Ray Baker, MD

Chirag A. Shah, MD

Kathryn Arendt, MD

Janet L. Kennedy, MD

Jack C. Salerno, MD

Sara Benda, MD

Lorena Shih, MD

Garrison H. Ayars, MD

Bart Keogh, MD, PhD

Robert S. Sawin, MD

Kurt Billett, MD

Dyan M. Simon, MD

Rick Badura, MD

Elias E. Khalfayan, MD

James Schneider, MD

Theodore R. Brown, MD, MPH

Greg Sliman, MD

Oliver Biggers, MD

Kelan Koenig, MD

Daniel Seely, MD

Terrance Chun, MD

Stephen Tilles, MD

James K. Brevig, MD

Alice L. Kuntz, MD

Peter V. Sefton, MD

Howard Colston, MD

Jeff J. Tomlin, MD

Mary Brumfiel, MD

Peter Kures, MD

Connie J. Smith, MD

Stephen R. Cuplin, MD

Dean C. Walund, MD

Paul E. Buehrens, MD

Barry M. Lawson, MD

James Song, MD, PhD

Eric J. Demers, MD

Mitch Weinberg, MD, PhD

Maura Cardwell, MD

Samson Lee, MD

Jeffrey Stolz, MD

Mary Dion, MD

Arthur Castagno, MD

Mark Lewin, MD

Thomas Takayama, MD

Wayne L. Hill, MD

Joseph E. Chebli, MD

Rubin R. Maidan, MD

Dan Steven Veljovich, MD

Garrett Hyman, MD

Stephen J. Chentow, MD

Gandis G. Mazeika, MD

Pedro Vieco, MD

Larisa A. Kaukonen, MD

Angela J. Chien, MD

Robert Michaelson, MD, PhD

Mark R. Vossler, MD

Mary M. Kelly, MD

Maria Chong, MD

Howard G. Muntz, MD

John Waldhausen, MD

Peter J. Lallas, DPM

Kelly Clinch, MD

Joseph Nakahara, MD

Martin Walker, MD

Mark B. Lewin, MD

Gordon Cohen, MD, PhD

Richard Neiman, MD

Peter Wall, MD

Carolyn Marquardt, MD

Roberta DeRegt, MD

Gregory J. Norling, MD

Josephine Wang, MD

Terry J. Mengert, MD

Gavin M. Dry, MD

Richard Pelman, MD

Mitchell Weinberg, MD, PhD

Howard Muntz, MD

Sally Esser, MD

Daniel Pepper, MD

Michael E. Weiss, MD

Rolf Olsoy, MD

William S. Getchell, MD

Lester Permut, MD

Harry Yu, MD

Terrence A. Pheifer, MD

Michael L. Gilbert, MD

William A. Peters III, MD

David Zunkel, MD

Glenn I. Powers, MD

US News & World Report 2011 “Top Docs”

Peter Hashisaki, MD

Eric Pinczower, MD

Edwin I. Hatch, Jr., MD

Kim R. Pittenger, MD

Robert Haynes, MD

Paul Abson, MD

U.S. News & World Report: http://health.usnews.com/top-doctors Seattle Met: http://www.seattlemet.com/health-and-fitness/articles/2011-top-doctors-august-2011/

CLASSES

For your convenience, you may register and pay for classes 24/7 online at www.evergreenhospital.org/classes. You may also call the Evergreen Healthline at 425.899.3000, Mon.-Fri., 7 a.m.-7 p.m.

Robert Roskin, MD Sam Salama, MD

For more detailed information on each class, visit www.evergreenhospital.org/classes. Register online, or call the Evergreen Healthline at 425.899.3000 • Monday-Friday, 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.

C L AS S E S

Diabetes Screening Diabetes Awareness Day Your opportunity to receive a free blood glucose analysis and personal diabetic risk assessment with consultation. Fasting not required, but preferred. Mar. 22, 9-10:30 a.m. STOP SMOKING: NICOTINE SOLUTIONS Free informational meeting to discover proven techniques to help you quit smoking and chewing. Jan. 25, Feb. 23 or Mar. 13, 10-11 a.m. or 6-7 p.m.

Doc Talks BREAKTHROUGH SEMINAR: CONSIDERING KNEE OR HIP REPLACEMENT? Learn more about minimally invasive, computer-assisted knee and hip replacement surgery. It means smaller incisions, less pain and quicker recovery. Join our surgeons for a free seminar on Evergreen’s comprehensive joint program. Jan. 26, Feb. 23, 6:30-8:30 p.m., free BREAKTHROUGH SEMINAR: THE CUTTING EDGE IN MINIMALLY INVASIVE SPINE SURGERY In the field of spinal surgery, there is currently a shift from traditional “big incision” surgery to modern, minimally invasive “small incision” approaches. Learn the most upto-date, minimally invasive spine surgery techniques and technologies from a regional leader in the field. Mar. 22, 6:30-8:30 p.m., free. Breakthrough Seminar: Caring for your Joints Learn all about your joints and get tips to keep them happy and healthy. Keynote will address arthritis and breakout sessions will include nutrition, rehabilitation, knees and hips, spine and more. Snacks and refreshments provided. April 7, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. free.

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WEIGHT-LOSS SURGERY: IS IT RIGHT FOR YOU? Experts from the Evergreen Bariatric Center will discuss surgical options, postoperative follow-up, lifestyle changes, financial information and nutrition support. Jan. 16, Feb. 1, 13, Mar. 7, 19 6-8:30 p.m., free.

Senior Health Evergreen offers classes and health screenings for seniors at convenient community locations. Visit www.evergreenhospital.org/horizons for class schedules and locations. To receive the free quarterly Evergreen Horizons newsletter, call 425.899.1858 or e-mail Horizons@evergreenhealthcare.org. SOY: THE DARK SIDE Learn why those with chronic inflammation or thyroid problems shouldn’t eat soy and what effect soy has on your hormone levels. Jan. 19, 12:30-1:30 p.m., free. WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT STROKE Learn steps you can take to prevent strokes. Will also cover stroke signs and symptoms, along with crucial first responses. Feb. 2, 10-11 a.m., free. TIME OUT! RESPITE Learn about resources available to help caregivers get time for themselves when a loved one depends on them for support. Feb. 16, 12:30-1:30 p.m., free. SOUND ADVICE Explore techniques for improving communication skills and maximizing your hearing. Discover lip-reading basics and how to deal with noisy places. Mar. 15, 12:301:30 p.m., free.

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AARP Driver Safety Program Improve your driving skills and possibly receive an insurance discount. This program covers the effects of aging and medication on driving, basic driving rules, license renewal and more. Jan. 14, Feb. 11, Mar. 10, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., $12 AARP members, $14 nonmembers.

Neurological & Movement Disorders The Evergreen Neuroscience Institute offers classes and support groups to aid patients living with a variety of neurological diseases and movement disorders. Parkinson’s Telehealth View live, interactive educational talks designed to help patients and families improve their knowledge of Parkinson’s disease. Feb. 13, Mar. 12, Apr. 9, 2-3:30 p.m., free. Dance For Parkinson’s Stretch and strengthen muscles, focusing on balance and rhythm through many styles of dance. Eight-week sessions begin Mar. 24, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m., free. Communication Group Improve your communication skills. Feb. 9, Mar. 8, Apr. 12, 11 a.m.-12 p.m., $5. Neurological Exercise Group Gentle stretch and strength exercises. Four-week sessions begin Feb. 7, 9, Mar. 6, 8, Apr. 3, 5, 1-1:50 p.m., $20. From-the-Ground-Up Strength and Flexibility Includes elements of yoga, tai chi, dumbbell exercise and exercise bands. Four-week sessions begin Feb. 6, Mar. 5, Apr. 2, 2-3 p.m., $20.

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CLASSES

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Men’s Group: PArkinson’s Disease Explore what is happening to your mind and body, and learn to cope and to thrive in spite of your limitations. Feb. 14, Mar. 13, Apr. 10, 3-4:30 p.m., free. Women’s Group Join other women facing similar challenges to share ideas and experiences, support each other and learn how to maximize quality of life. Jan. 19, Feb. 16, Mar. 15, Apr. 19, 3-4 p.m., free.

CHILDBIRTH PREPARATION

CANCER LIFELINE AT EVERGREEN Evergreen and Cancer Lifeline are partnering to offer classes and support groups for cancer patients and their families. For program descriptions and a class schedule, or to register for programs, visit www.cancerlifeline.org or call 206.297.2500 or 1.800.255.5505.

LIVING WELL AFTER STROKE Information and support for stroke survivors and their care partners. Feb. 7, Mar. 6, Apr. 3, 2-3 p.m., free.

Fibromyalgia Update Research breakthroughs in diet, pain management, medications and treatments. Mar. 20, 6:308 p.m., $10.

THERAPEUTIC YOGA FOR MS Therapeutic yoga develops mindbody awareness and balance, and calms the nervous system. Six-week series begin Feb. 14, Mar. 27, 9:30-10:45 a.m., $30.

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome This condition can change how you look and feel, and how easy it is for you to become pregnant. Learn a holistic approach to get you feeling well again. Feb. 7, 6:30-8 p.m. $10.

THERAPEUTIC YOGA FOR MS WORKSHOP One-day workshop is accessible for all levels and capacity; no previous yoga experience necessary. Mar. 10, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m., $20.

Disease Management DIABETES HEALTH Our diabetes classes cover fundamentals to advanced topics. Call 425.899.3008 or visit www.evergreenhospital.org/diabetes for class schedule. CARDIAC HEALTH Evergreen’s Cardiovascular Health and Wellness Center offers wellness programs to improve your heart health. Call 425.899.3770 or visit www.evergreenhospital.org/cardiohealth for information. Success with Heart Failure Heart Failure Basics (Mar. 6) covers self-management skills and medications. Having Fun with Low-Sodium Cooking (Mar. 13) focuses on nutrition and cooking. 1-2:30 p.m., $5/class.

For class dates and times or to register for classes, go to www.evergreenhospital.org/ childbirth or call the Evergreen Healthline at 425.899.3000. Register early during your pregnancy as classes fill quickly. Maternity Center Tour A free 20-minute tour. Also offered in Spanish. Labor & Birth Basics This core series for first-time parents covers labor and birth, infant feeding, pain management, cesarean birth interventions and postpartum care. Includes a tour. $145/couple. Labor & Birth Basics – TEENS AND MULTIPLES This core series for teens and multiples covers labor and birth, pain management, cesarean birth, interventions, infant feeding and postpartum care. $120/couple.

Pre-registration is required for all programs; call 425.899.1077.

Hypnobirthing Use guided imagery, visualization and patterned breathing for a safe and satisfying birth. Five-week series, $135/couple, plus $25 materials fee due at class.

Bereavement Series For those who have lost a loved one through death. Six-week series begin Mar. 15, 12:30-2:30 p.m. or 7-9 p.m. Suggested donation is $30.

Fit4Baby Program A total-body interval workout adjusted to the pregnancy phases of the attendees. Six-week session, $90.

SUDDEN & TRAUMATIC LOSS For those grieving a death by suicide, homicide or accident. Call for next six-week series. Suggested donation is $30.

Healthy Eating for Pregnancy and Beyond Improve your diet with practical tips on shopping, dining out, healthy snacking and more. $15

Grief & Bereavement

Supporting Our Children Assists the grieving parent in dealing with the struggles facing a grieving child (ages 6 to 12). Call for dates. Donations accepted.

Yoga for Pregnancy Strengthen childbearing muscles, increase flexibility during pregnancy, and learn deep relaxation for lifelong health. Sessions and prices vary.

Siblings class Prepares siblings for the arrival of a new baby. For children ages 2 to 6. Parents attend with children. $15/one child, $25/two or more. Dads Only Learn the first steps to becoming a great dad, based on cutting-edge insights from psychology and developmental theory. $25. Conscious Fathering Learn about your baby’s needs and how to contribute to the all-important “father effect.” $40.

BABY CARE & SAFETY Day About Baby Learn about diapering, bathing, soothing, infant carriers, intro to infant feeding and more. $75/couple. Breastfeeding Basics and Beyond Information about breastfeeding, special feeding needs, breast pumps, breast milk collection and storage. $35/couple. Car Seat Safety Learn about selecting and using a car seat specific to your needs. $10/couple. Car Seat Inspection Have your car seat checked by a certified safety technician. Free. Bringing Baby Home Workshop Expectant couples learn how to avoid marital meltdown and cope with the normal stressors of becoming parents. Two-day workshop, $150/couple.

HOP TO SIGNAROO ® BABY SIGN LANGUAGE Use American Sign Language to communicate with your baby. Details at www.hoptosignaroo.com. Four-week series begins Mar 8, $128/both parents or for one parent and one grandparent, plus $19 supply fee payable at first class. Parent-Baby Classes Weekly discussions of age-specific baby topics and support from other new parents. Visit www.evergreenhospital.org/parent-baby for schedule. For ages 0-15 months. Three-month sessions; class for babies 0-3 months is free; $77 for other ages. This Is Not What I Expected Support for new parents experiencing symptoms of postpartum distress. Free. For more information, call 425.899.3602. Starting Solids Practical and research-based information on the healthy feeding of solid foods for babies 4 to 12 months old. $25. Breastfeeding Your Older Baby & Child Education and support for moms continuing to breastfeed beyond the first six months $10. Baby & Family Boutique Clothing, nursing bras, and supplies for pregnancy, breastfeeding and your newborn. Visit www.evergreenhospital.org/ boutique.

Happiest Baby on the Block Learn how to soothe even the fussiest baby in minutes. $60. Fee includes CD and DVD.

Pelvic Health Class Learn how to minimize pain during pregnancy and birth, and optimize healing. $20.