December 2019 •
IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper
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IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • December 2019
Holiday season 12 Ways of Christmas Make meaningful memories this Christmas season By Brooke Stacia Demott
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’m on the tail end of the Millennial spectrum, the generation that grew up with front-row seats to the war on tradition. For years, I’ve been told conclusively that I only want what’s new and exciting, so anyone looking for a buyer twists their marketing techniques in every direction except backward to get my attention. In reality, most of us are overwhelmed by decades of broken families, revolving door fads, and clever gimmicks, longing for something to ground us in the flow of history. Developing strong traditions with loved ones can help do just that. Making memories together this Christmas doesn’t have to be costly or complicated, and the benefits can last a lifetime! Here are 12 creative ways to make sweet, budget-friendly memories this year! — Throwback toys: Remember that 1972 Fisher Price Little People Airport with the indestructible plane and fold-up airport? How about the 1988 Ninga Turtle Party Wagon and pizza-thrower? Maybe Weebles or Kid Sister, Lite-Brite or CareBears bring you back to an ethereal memory of childhood. Take a little time on Ebay and hunt down a favorite toy from your past, and share the memory of that special time in your life with your kids or grandkids. — Street caroling: Gather a few friends together, print out some copies of “Hark the Herald Angels Sing” and make a joyful noise around the neighborhood! Carolers are uncommon these days, and I guarantee you’ll be a nostalgic hit and have a wonderful time. Don’t forget to invite the carolers back to your home for some hot cocoa! — Let the kids decorate (Yes, I mean actually let them): My kids make a ridiculous amount of enormous, rectangular paper snowflakes every year. About five years ago, I said, “OK, if you’re going to do this, get some string and hang them up on the ceiling.” They did, and the result is a dazzling, slightly psychotic winter blizzard in every room of my house. I’m talking hundreds of paper snowflakes. They even tape them to ceiling fans and turn them on low, all day. It’s crazy, but it’s really special to them and they look forward to it every year! — Secret Santa: I have seven children, so this is a no-brainer for inter-sibling gifts. But this can work for any group! Gather a few friends
and throw names in a hat, or do a neighborhood version to get to know the folks around the corner for the holidays! — Visit village Christmas festivals: We love the Skaneateles Dickens’ Christmas festival that runs every year from the last week of November until Christmas Eve. There are carriage rides, samples of figgy pudding, and over 50 Dickens’ actors in time-period garb, play acting and leading rounds of Christmas c in the village gazebo. Find a village festival or tree-lighting ceremony near you! — Participate in a pageant: Find a church that puts on a Nativity pageant to attend with your family. If you can’t, then perhaps you can fill the community need, and organize a pageant yourself. The good news is, the script has been written for you!
Baking contest
— Have a cookie party: Have each family member pick a favorite to bake, and have a contest to see who’s is the tastiest — or the best decorated — then make trays to give away to community service centers like the police station or hospital. You can have a cookie exchange with several other families, or have your kids’ friends over for a cookie-and-storyhour Christmas theme party. — Adopt-a-grandma (or grandpa): One year, we called a nursing home and asked if they had residents who didn’t get visits from family around the holidays. They gave us three names. So that year, we bought presents for those three residents, and on Christmas Eve our whole family delivered them to the nursing home. My husband brought his guitar and we
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all sang hymns. It was a wonderful memory, and we enjoyed getting to know some new friends. — Secret card giveaway: Make some Christmas cards together and put them in random mailboxes, with encouraging words and thoughtful seasons’ greetings. Add a favorite Bible verse, a cute bookmark, or a 5$ bill. It’s fun to imagine how a small,
unexpected gift might brighten someone’s day! — Make an ethnic Christmas meal: My family has Italian roots, so this year we’re going to do a traditional Italian-America “Festa dei Sette Pesci” (Feast of the Seven Fish) for Christmas Eve. Trace your roots and plan to make some traditional foods that honor your genealogy! — Go to church: I’m not Catholic, but I vividly remember attending a Catholic Midnight Mass as a small child on Christmas Eve. It seemed magical to me. These days, many denominations offer a Christmas Eve service. We always attend a Christmas Eve service at a local church, and appreciate the reminder that Jesus is the center of the celebration! — Christmas classic movie night: Pick a cold snowy night to get everyone into comfy pajamas, break out bowls of popcorn and glasses of eggnog, and cuddle up to “It’s A Wonderful Life” or “A Christmas Carol.” Traditions are wonderful, living memorials of the past, knitting us together in the present, and if we are lucky, carefully preserved and carried into the future. Get creative and enjoy making them your very own!
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IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper
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Eyeopening facts about lack of shuteye
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our in 10 Upstate New York adults are not getting enough sleep, according to a survey commissioned by Excellus BlueCross BlueShield. Sleep experts recommend that adults get at least seven hours of sleep a night. Excellus BlueCross BlueShield commissioned One Research to conduct an online survey of Upstate New York adults aged 18 and older. Among the findings: — Men are significantly more likely than women to report getting seven or more hours of sleep each night. — Average hours of sleep vary with age. Compared with other age groups, adults 35 to 44 years old are the least likely to get 7 hours or more of sleep at night. Significantly more people aged 65 and older report getting the most sleep. — One in five adults report that they snore, while more men report snoring than women. — More than half of adults (especially women) report often feeling tired during the day. — Eight out of 10 adults have tried at least one method to improve sleep. Obesity, heart disease, diabetes, and depression all are health conditions associated with not getting enough sleep, although it’s not clear whether sleep disruption leads to these clinical problems or the problems disturb sleep. Poor sleep is linked with impaired decision-making and decreased alertness, which can result in injuries to the sleep-deprived and those around them. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that in 2017, 91,000 police-reported crashes involved drowsy drivers. Lack of sleep also is an economic issue. The National Safety Council estimates that worker fatigue costs employers $136 billion a year in health-related lost productivity. “As a society, we need to recognize the dangers of trying to get by with fewer hours of sleep and wake up to the health benefits of a good night’s rest,” said Richard Lockwood, Excellus BlueCross BlueShield vice president and chief medical officer. He offers the following tips for improved sleep: — Keep bedroom quiet, dark, and cool. — Avoid large meals, caffeine, nicotine and alcohol before bed. — Stick to a consistent sleep schedule, including on weekends. — Exercise regularly. — Establish a relaxing bedtime routine. — Turn off electronic devices at least 30 minutes before bed.
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Meet
Your Doctor
By Barbara Pierce
Dr. Nicholas Qandah Dr. Nicholas Qandah provides premier brain and spine care for central New York at Central New York Brain and Spine Neurosurgery in New Hartford, which he founded. Qandah and his colleagues, all world-class physicians and surgeons, treat patients with back and neck pain, spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease and herniated discs. The practice has expanded and operates from several locations in the Mohawk Valley.
Q.: What was your vision when you founded CNY Brain and Spine Neurosurgery? A.: Our mission for CNY Brain and Neurosurgery is to provide stateof-the-art brain and spine care for the region. I had been a practicing neurosurgeon in this area for nearly six years when I saw that there was a bigger need for a neurosurgery practice that specialized in spine and brain care. I approached the local hospitals with my idea and they loved the concept. They knew my work and knew that I had 15 years of experience in neurosurgery and had trained with the world’s best neurosurgeons and orthopedic spine surgeons. We opened CNY Brain and Neurosurgery in New Hartford in the spring of 2018. Since then, we’ve expanded and have offices in Herkimer, Rome, Lowville, Potsdam, and Watertown. We work closely with four health systems in the area: Mohawk Valley Health System, Rome Memorial Hospital, and hospitals in Lowville and Potsdam to complement the care they offer to the community.
Q.: What is the main thing you would like the community to know about CNY Brain and Spine Neurosurgery? A.: We use multiple modalities to treat your problem; we do it all. We don’t just use one modality. We don’t just do injections into the shoulder, or minimally invasive laser surgery. When you come to us, we first diagnose the problem, figure out exactly what the problem is, then recommend the treatment that would work best for you, depending on the diagnosis. We take a global look. We want appropriate, conservative care for you. For example, you come in with right leg pain. We figure out what is causing the pain. We ask about your job. You stand on your right leg all day while you lift things. We figure out how to fix this so you can continue working at your job and control your pain. What’s important is we’re doing some of the basic things and we’re bringing in new techniques. In 2020, we’ll have a new advanced robotic system so that you won’t have to go to New York City for this type of care. We’re very excited about this. Q.: Is there anything that many of us are doing wrong that brings us to you?
A.: If you’re being treated for chronic pain, or a long-lasting problem, do see a health care provider who uses modern technology — that’s the way to go. Sometimes people do the same thing over and over and think they’ll get a different result. I’ve had so many people say to me, “I’m so glad I finally found you. I’ve had 15 injections and they didn’t work.” If the treatment you’re getting doesn’t work, why keep doing it? Q.: What else would you like people to know about you and CNY Brain and Spine Neurosurgery? A.: We’re the industry leaders
when it comes to getting people up and going again when they come to us with a problem. When they work with us, the time they spend in the hospital or off work is the shortest. We can do this because we work closely with occupational therapy, physical therapy and rehab. We use a team approach to evaluate and treat people most effectively. We’re committed to patient care, improved patient lifestyle, surgical outcome, and our community. We’re all real neurosurgeons. Some physicians claim to be, but haven’t had specific training. We’re all trained and board-certified in neurosurgery. We have six providers, all well trained and board-certified. We provide specialized care for the complete spectrum of neurosurgical needs, including the neck (cervical spine), back (lumbar spine), spinal injuries (trauma), scoliosis, spinal tumors, brain tumors, brain trauma, and strokes. Q.: What else would you like people to know about you? A.: I’ve trained with the world’s best neurosurgeons and orthopedic spine surgeons and have 15 years of experience.
Lifelines Birth year: 1976 Birthplace: Michigan Education: Bachelor of Science degree, University of Michigan; medical degree, Midwestern University, Glendale. Arizona; neurosurgical residency, Virginia Tech Carillion Clinic, Roanoke, Virginia; fellowship in orthopedics and neurosurgery, University of Washington Affiliations: Rome Memorial Hospital, Mohawk Valley Health System Current residence: New Hartford Personal: Married, four children Hobbies: Spending quality time with family, whether hiking, traveling, fishing, or attending sports events, like going to Utica Comets games. We’re avid baseball fans.
IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • December 2019
Holiday season The Balanced Body
By Deb Dittner
Have game plan for holiday success From scents to support systems, establish a memorable Yuletide season “It’s the holiday season With the whoop-de-do and hickory dock And don’t forget to hang up your sock” — Andy Williams
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t’s that time of the year again! Holiday songs both new and old bring feelings of togetherness, giving and joy. Just thinking about Christmas brings the scent of my grandfather’s Springerle cookies to mind, filling me with that amazing spice smell. The traditional scents that fill our homes for the holidays also bring great support to the body. Dittner Three great holiday aromas delivered by therapeutic-grade essential oils are clove, cinnamon bark and wild orange. All three are safe for both children and pets and there is no worry about candles being knocked over or forgotten. Clove essential oil is antimicrobial, filling the air with the scent of the autumn harvest and winter warmth. This hot oil may provide a warming sensation when applied topically to the skin and therefore should be applied with a carrier oil to dilute the sensation. Adding clove essential oil to some raw honey produces an amazing natural facemask against acne and other skin irritations. Clove boosts the immune system when diffusing, cleaning and in cooking. Cinnamon bark essential oil is also antimicrobial, making this a great addition to your diffusing blend. Cinnamon bark adds spicy warmth to the mix. Research shows the ability to decrease cholesterol and support heart health. This oil helps
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to boost the immune system and is an antioxidant. It is also considered a hot oil, so add a carrier oil when applying to the skin. Wild orange essential oil is both citrusy and sweet, supporting your digestive system in cooking and when added to your water. Wild orange can calm the anxious when diffused, and can be used in cleaning as it contains antibacterial properties by simply adding to white vinegar. Diffuser Blend: — 2 drops clove essential oil — 2 drops cinnamon bark essential oil — 4 drops wild orange essential oil But the holidays can also create anxiety and stress, causing you to overindulge in inflammatory foods. Most traditional holiday foods contribute to that inflammation, adding to health problems of today. Avoiding these foods may seem quite difficult, but let’s look at ways to enjoy the celebrations and still maintain a healthy approach. • Self-care: The holidays are a season of giving, but remember to
Madison
first give to you. Practice meditation and breathing techniques to decrease anxiety and stress that will help in decreasing inflammation. • Keep moving: Remember to continue the exercise program you worked hard to incorporate into your daily lives. Movement will keep down the inflammation and provide a sense of calm. Try incorporating yoga or tai chi. • Preparation is key: If you will be eating out at a restaurant, check the menu ahead of time to know your options. You could also eat ahead of time if the options are not ideal and enjoy something small. Mostly, enjoy the company you are with. If you are going to a party where everyone will be bringing and sharing a dish, make something consisting of a whole nutrient-dense option that you will be able to enjoy. • Add turmeric: If you’re bringing a dish to share, don’t forget the turmeric. Turmeric is anti-inflammatory and a great spice to add to almost any meal. Turmeric also comes in supplement form, adding to your
wellness routine. Look for a supplement brand providing 10 grams per day that contains piperine, which greatly increases the bioavailability of curcumin. • Alcohol in moderation: Alcohol does create inflammation in the body, so you need to choose wisely. Look for cocktails that include anti-inflammatory, gut-healing ingredients such as ginger, kombucha, and water and coconut kefir. Consider having a glass of water or sparkling water in between alcoholic beverages. • Avoid junk food: Chips and other crunchy snacks are staples at most parties and consist of inflammatory oils such as canola and soybean. Search out snacks such as raw, soaked or lightly toasted nuts and seeds, nut cheese, hummus or guacamole with raw veggies, salsa with cassava flour tortilla chips, and for those on a keto diet, fat bombs. • Have a support system: Finding a friend who shares the same healthful options who can come with you will keep you both on track and accountable. • Consider a probiotic: Probiotics help in healing the gut, which can be compromised during the holiday season when eating unhealthy foods. Probiotics consisting of a minimum of 10 billion colony-forming units that contain lactobacillus and bifidobacterium strains aids in decreasing inflammation. Balancing your body by incorporating anti-inflammatory choices will empower you throughout the season and into a healthy New Year. • Deborah Dittner is a family nurse practitioner and health consultant. Her mission is to transform as many individuals as possible through nutrition and lifestyle changes. For more information, check out her website at www.debdittner. com or contact her at 518-596-8565.
INSIGHT HOUSE
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A monthly newspaper published by Local News, Inc. 20,000 copies distributed. To request home delivery ($21 per year), call 315-749-7070.
In Good Health is published 12 times a year by Local News, Inc. © 2019 by Local News, Inc. All rights reserved. Mailing Address: 4 Riverside Drive, Suite 251, Utica, NY 13502 • Phone: 315-749-7070 Email: lou@cnymail.com
Editor & Publisher: Wagner Dotto Associate Editor: Lou Sorendo Contributing Writers: Barbara Pierce, David Podos, Deb Dittner, Jessica Arsenault Rivenburg, Brooke Stacia Demott, Daniel Baldwin, Traci DeLore Advertising: Amy Gagliano Layout & Design: Dylon Clew-Thomas Office Assistant: Nancy Nitz No material may be reproduced in whole or in part from this publication without the express written permission of the publisher. The information in this publication is intended to complement — not to take the place of — the recommendations of your health provider.
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Holiday season Between You & Me
By Barbara Pierce
Decorate for holidays? Now? When is early too early? Experts say never
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groaned as I drove past my neighbor’s house and saw Tom inflating a huge Santa in his front yard. The multi-colored Christmas lights were twinkling over his house. It was a week before Thanksgiving. “He’s just a little too excited for the holidays to come,” I thought. “What’s up with that?” How did he get his act together so quickly? What possessed him to get in the holiday spirit so early? And why is he Pierce pushing his joy on the rest of us who need more time to ease into holiday celebration? Why is he making us feel badly that we aren’t nearly there yet? I’m not a Grinch; I do love the holidays, but I tend to be one who suddenly realizes it’s only a week until Christmas, then race to Lowe’s to get a tree and realize I’ve waited
too long. As for decorating the outside of my house, that’s not going to happen. According to researchers, the answer is pretty simple as far as why Tom and others are so eager to decorate for the holidays early. It makes people feel good. Putting up decorations for the holidays can boost your happiness levels. It spikes dopamine, a feel-good hormone, into your brain, they say. It’s all about nostalgia. Nostalgia — or affection for the past — is a powerful thing, linked to all kinds of positive emotions. Who doesn’t smile at the sight of a lit up Christmas tree, and love the smell of cinnamon or fresh-baked cookies, or get a lump in their throat as they sing a Christmas carol from childhood? Memories we’ve built up over years and years do bring us much emotion. In our world today, so full of stress and anxiety, people like to remember things that make them happy — decorations for the holidays evoke those strong feelings of
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the magical excitement we felt as children. Decorating early makes you happy by triggering positive childhood associations. People who decorate early are either trying to relive the magic of past holidays or they may be compensating for past holidays that weren’t happy. “OK, I get it,” I said to myself. “Either Tom has happy memories of the holidays when he was a kid and he’s trying to recreate that and stretch it out, or he doesn’t have happy memories and he’s trying to make up for it.” What else about holiday decorations triggers those happy hormones? For starters, it’s the bright lights and colors. Chromotherapy, or color therapy, which is thought to increase energy levels and boost happiness, might be at play. Or maybe it’s just the ambiance in general that makes us feel the “warm fuzzies.” And, for sure, the bright, cheerful holiday decorations do help combat the dreary, dismal winter sky. Nothing like candles flickering and bright lights to help us feel cozy when the snow and cold surround us outside. And researchers have proved that there are other real benefits to putting out the inflatable Santa and the twinkling lights before you’ve even thought about digging into that turkey. When homes were decorated early, people perceived those inside as friendlier. With the warm, welcoming look of the lights and the
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IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • December 2019
Santa, people believe there is a happy family inside waiting to welcome them with hot chocolate and cookies. However, not everyone enjoys the holidays and all the decorations. If the holidays bring up negative feelings for you, putting up decorations and lighting pine-scented candles probably won’t help. Don’t force yourself to decorate. It’s OK to be a Grinch. It’s OK not to get into the holiday spirit. There’s nothing wrong with liking or disliking the holidays. Just don’t spoil it for your family and friends who are in the holiday spirit. If you don’t have happy memories of the holidays, consider creating new traditions for you and your family — Something that will make you happy and create good memories. Be true to yourself and do what makes you feel good. If you’re invited to all those holiday parties and you just can’t stand to be around all those people displaying their holiday cheer, remind yourself that you don’t have to say yes to all the invitations. Work out which event will gain you the maximum brownie points and politely decline all others. If you’re not a Grinch and you’ve been itching to get your holiday stuff out of storage, go ahead. Even though it’s early, hang the lights and blow up the inflatables — the sooner, the better. You’ll make yourself feel good right away and the neighbors will think you are a friendly, welcoming person. As for me, I’m heading over to Tom’s for some hot chocolate and those wonderful Christmas cookies I know his wife has been baking. • Barbara Pierce is a retired licensed clinical social worker with many years of experience helping people. If you would like to purchase a copy of her book, “When You Come to the Edge: Aging” or if you have questions for her, contact her at barbarapierce06@yahoo.com.
Holiday season Make it Epic Take steps necessary to squeeze stress out of season By Barbara Pierce
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et’s get real. The holidays aren’t all mistletoe, twinkling lights and cheer. For many of us, this is the most stressful time of the year — pressure to spend money, then even more, dealing with difficult family members, gifts to buy, and maybe feelings of loneliness or grief. We’re all hit with a set of assumptions and expectations this time of year — the expectation that we should be full of joy. We may love the holidays but we’re stressed out, overwhelmed. Some suggestions on how to take charge and make it work better for you: — Get support: Stay in touch with the people in your life. Talk about what’s going on for you, or just hang out. “It’s important to talk to people who understand you,” said Tiffany Blaschak of Rome, president of the Mom’s Club of Oneida County. The club gets together a few times each month, sometimes with children, sometimes just moms. “We help mothers in all stages of life — newborns, teens, or adults. We support each other, discuss, anybody who needs to talk, can talk. We have a great time together,” she said. “Our ‘Monthly Mingles’ are always open to the public. Anyone can show up to meet some moms and get more information. There are toys for the children to play with,” she added. The club meets at the First Presbyterian Church of Rome. For more information, see their Facebook page MOMS Club of Oneida County NY. — Handle the things that will be stressful early on: Holiday planning is hectic, so get stuff done early. Refrain from going over the top and be realistic about which tasks and obligations are possible and which are not. — It’s OK to say no to some invitations. Probably not the office
party, but say no to the ones you’re not thrilled to go to. Don’t be apologetic about saying no. And you don’t have to go into lengthy explanations about why you’re saying no. Just say, “I’m so sorry. There’s somewhere else I have to be.” It’s perfectly fine if the somewhere else is in a bubble bath or curled up on the couch. — Choose to believe that everything will go well. If you believe the office party is going to be boring, and you really don’t want to go, it probably will be boring. Instead, think instead that it will be a lot of fun. Think positively, and it will be so much more joyous for you. — Watch that credit card: You might even put it away it for the next few weeks and pay cash only. A number of studies have indicated that people tend to spend more when using a credit card. They found shoppers spend up to 100% more when using a credit card to pay instead of About Us cash.
people like you with a gift. — Do everyone in your life a massive favor and suggest they curb their gift expectations. After all, you may already have everything you want, and you will be avoiding the build-up of clutter and stuff you really didn’t want. — If you must give a gift and you are uncertain about what to buy
for whom, then give a gift voucher. Avoid the extra stress of trying to figure out what would bring them the most delight. — Accept your relatives just as they are. We all have family members we wish we didn’t have to have in our lives. They aren’t really being difficult or acting weird on purpose. They have no idea of what they are doing; or, if they do, they have no idea of how to be any different. Just limit your time with them and ignore their eccentricities. If the conversation becomes tense, step away. Recognize the other person has issues. Don’t take it personally. — Be aware: Remember that it’s normal to not always feel jolly during this time of year, and that’s OK. If you’re feeling particularly depressed, talk to someone. — Chill out: Stop worrying about every little detail. Trying to be perfect is hard. Those pictures in the magazines are staged; you can’t recreate it. Don’t even try. — Get enough sleep and exercise: Both can cut down on stress, and will help you feel healthy and have less guilt about all the parties and dinners.
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Page 7
Holiday season Handling the Holidays Is this really season to be jolly? You can certainly make it that way! By Ambi Daniel
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f you have been anywhere near New Hartford Consumer Square recently, you might have noticed the uptick in traffic. Whenever I see the traffic increase in that area, I know it’s the holiday season, which means the pressure is on and so is the stress. But for many, the first signs of holiday stress emerge around Daniel Halloween, when stores begin stocking shelves with Christmas decorations and candies. It is not unusual to see Halloween décor stocked next to Thanksgiving and Christmas decorations. We are being sent non-verbal retail messages that the clock is ticking and there is not enough time to fit everything in. During this time of the year, we often have higher expectations, which places even more pressure on
us. The idea of “keeping up with the Joneses” is silently pushed on us through social media, commercials and other avenues. This idea can propel us to spend more money and spend less time with the people who matter. A Consumer Report survey done several years ago asked people what they dread most about the holidays. A whopping 90% noted there’s at least one thing that they stress over during this time of the year: — Crowds and long lines: 68% — Gaining weight: 37% — Getting into debt: 37% — Gift shopping: 28% — Traveling: 25% — Seeing certain relatives: 24% Holiday stress can compound daily stress, which has a direct impact on your physical well-being. We often respond to stress with unhealthy habits like smoking, overeating and binge drinking. These coping mechanisms then trigger a physical response to stress like high-blood pressure, tension headaches, and an upset stomach. There are plenty of ways to reduce the stressors of the holidays.
Instead of taking on all the hosting duties, delegate some of the chores. When people are invited to someone’s house they want to help; no one likes to go to a party empty-handed. Don’t be afraid to ask for help and assign duties. Out-of-town guests can help with either pre-party prep or after-party clean up. Folks who live in town can be assigned a dish to bring; out-of- town folks can do this as well. It’s easy to pick up a pie or cake at a local bakery. Don’t forget the kids —‘ children won’t be under foot so much if you give them a job to do. Kids are the perfect gopher or door greeter, and of course they can also help set the table and do meal prep work depending on the age. Kids especially will take pride in their holiday duties! Getting your guests involved is a great way to create new traditions.
Money pressures huge
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Financial stress is another pressure that seems unavoidable during this time of year, but having shared duties can help relieve some of those pressures. There are other ways to help maintain a budget during the holidays, such as using cash. Cash is a tangible reminder of how much we are spending. It makes it harder to over-shop or over-spend for others. One of the best ways to manage your holiday spending is to create a special savings account. Specify a desired amount and directly deposit from each paycheck. If you are not sure how, talk to your finance department. For added precaution, you can use a different bank then your regular one. This way, you will be less tempted to “borrow” from it during the year. The money you tuck away can be used for anything from Halloween costumes to buying an organic turkey, or to help ease the financial punch our wallets take during this season. If you have a large family and
IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • December 2019
feel obligated to get gifts for everyone, why not start a “Secret Santa” exchange? Set a limit on spending, say $50, and create a private Facebook group where everyone can share his or her “wish list.” Secret Santa can work for the kids as well. This not only teaches them about how much items cost, but the importance of shopping on a budget. Self-care during the holidays is just as important as taking care of your money. In order to help decrease stress, make time to decompress — just 10 minutes per day can have a huge impact on your well-being. A quick way to do this is to have a time directly after work to shift gears. You can do this by walking in the door, changing into comfy clothes and giving yourself a 10-minute lay down. This will help your mind to let go of all the work thoughts. Using a short positive affirmation during this time of reflection is also helpful. The positive affirmation will prep you to handle the next part of your day, which can be just as stressful as work. As we head into the New Year, get a jumpstart on de-stressing by making self-care and your mental health a priority. One way is to make a New Year’s resolution that promotes self-care. You can do this by writing in a gratitude journal or by treating yourself to a mental health day once a month. The Center for Family Life and Recovery in Utica, Rome and Herkimer offers other ways for self-care with our ROCovery fitness group and “Give it a Whirl” events, both of which are free and promote fun ways to connect with others and learn new skills. • Ambi Daniel is a family support navigator at the Center for Family Life and Recovery in Utica. Have a question or comment for Daniel? Call 315-733-1709 or email adaniel@ cflrinc.org.
Holiday season Milk & Honey
By Brooke Stacia Demott
Recapture joy of the season Blinded by the lights of holiday fanfare? Take refuge in the real meaning of Christmas • Editor’s note: The second part of a three-part series titled “The Unseen Realm” will be featured in the January edition of Mohawk Valley In Good Health.
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aisle, I made a point to catch his eye and smile, encouraging the girls to do the same. He smiled back and paused, asking me if I might help him find ear buds for his iPod. So, we stopped what we were doing and searched around, chatting with him until we found them. He thanked us and went on his way, and I took the opportunity to explain to the kids how important it was to help others, and how good it feels to be kind.
Better is a little with peace, than feasting with strife” (Proverbs 17:1). It may be just me, but have you noticed that the Christmas season breeds a palpable national anxiety? I don’t know if it’s always been Instant karma like this, but as an A moment later, I felt a tap on my adult, I’ve beshoulder. I turned around, and there come increasingly he was again. “Excuse me,” he said. aware of how the “Every year I give a special gift to agitation level of someone, and this year, I have a gift the masses rises for you.” He handed me a $100 bill. steadily from The kids and I were stunned. mid-November He just patted me on the hand and until Dec. 26. endless stream of Christmas door Demott and children. walked away, and I never saw him There’s a seabusters, but to the outstretched arms If our human relationships are again. It reminded me of the Bible sonal marketing whitewash poured of Jesus Christ who MP supplies all of the source of our deepest fulfillment, verse that says, “Show hospitality to Order Propo from every media outlet into our our needs by the riches of his grace; This ad will appear at the classification how much moreof: can be found in strangers, for some have entertained subconscious, assuring us that the and that as the treasured hymns of a vibrant, living, interactive relaangels without knowing it” (Hejoy of Christmas can (for a limited the faith pour from our radios this tionship with our creator and Lord, Rome NY brews 13:2). time only!) be purchased at your month, our hearts would respond by who formed us specifically for that What really stands out in my nearest local or online retailer. praising God for fulfilling his prompurpose? with in Home Date 05/2014 memory about these two men was And although we vaguely recall For that was what Christ came to ise that on one holy night, Emmanthat, while one was suffocating last year’s Christmas spending would comeLto Size: save usHCN6 all from Ad Id: AM Date: 17, 2014 Acct# Sales GRIMALDI, JENNIFER do — to bridge the Rep: gap between God uel under the March oppressive demands of the A1ZGFE hangover, with its yuletide blend of Satan’s power when we had gone and man, that we might cross over consumer’s “Christmas,” the other buyer’s remorse and gnawing indiastray. the barrier of sin and death by the breathed deeply of the joy of the gestion, somehow we know we’re What tidings of comfort and joy! atoning sacrifice of Jesus to be fully season. about to do it again. We’ll plaster on restored in relationship to God, that Jesus speaks often of the unhapa smile and watch kids and grand• Brooke Stacia Demott is a columpy heart of the materialist. His words our joy — and his joy — might be kids receive yet another overpriced, nist with In Good Health newspaper. Got made complete. are unsettling, diagnosing the pursuit over-packaged “must-have” item, a question for Demott? Feel free to email So this year, my prayer is that of riches as not merely ignoble, but pushing aside that nagging feeling her at brooketo@aol.com. we would run with fervor not to the the means of our undoing, positionthat there’s something really wrong ing us at odds with God himself. with the way we celebrate Christmas. “You cannot serve two masters,” Last year, right around this time, Diabetes? Jesus warns. “You’ll hate one and I remember standing in the checkout MP Order Proposal# love the other, or be devoted to one This ad will appear at the classification of: Flat Feet? line behind a man who was purchasAd and neglect the other.Rome YouNYcannot Letter ing enough novelty toys to overserve both God, and Mammon” Plantar Fasciitis? with in Home Date 05/2014 whelm a small island. His kids were (Matthew 6:24). ‘Mammon,’ the perDate: March 17, 2014 Acct# A1ZGFE Sales Rep: GRIMALDI, L Size: HCN6 Ad Id: AMZHMA1 Contract# You may be JENNIFER eligible for shoes at little or5544766 no cost! whining at him to add more to the sonification of wealth, refers not only mountain of cheap plastic tumbling to money, but to the whole concept down the conveyer belt, and he was of devoting oneself to the pursuit of quite noticeably annoyed. earthly treasure. His kids were totally unconNot only does enslavement to cerned with masking their greed. He worldly goods become a barrier to Diabetes? reprimanded them with choice lanFlat Feet? knowing God, but it is the direct guage, saying, “I already spent way Plantar Fasciitis? cause of much of our unhappiness, too much of my (bleeping) money on You may be eligible for shoes at little or no cost! causing many to “wander from the you kids for Christmas.” faith and pierce themselves with I couldn’t help feeling bad for many griefs” (1 Timothy 6:10). them. He was clearly buying under The irony is that while the compulsion, his kids were shamechurch has sanctified Christmas as lessly unappreciative, and none of a celebration of the Lord, secularthem were happy. While this may be ism has erected a glamorous altar to a decidedly colorful example of the Mammon right beside the manger joyless, epicurean pursuit of “stuff,” of Christ. And let’s be honest, that it certainly wasn’t the only one. humble feeding trough can’t compete Shortly after, I took my kids to with the shimmering allure of holia dollar store to let them pick out day discounts. Secret Santa gifts for one another. As Unless, of course, we learn the I was helping my girls find craft suptruth: Joy is not made full in what we plies, I noticed that the majority of have, but in who we have. AMZHMDNLM 14-Mar-2014 07:57 the shopper’s faces around me were Our greatest joy is always found pinched and grim. It made us sad to in relationships — either short, see folks unhappy at Christmas time, meaningful encounters with a strangso when an older man with a cane er in the dollar store, or Corresponding deep, long-Listing Information: shuffled slowly past us in the narrow term investments with our spouses AMZHMDNLM 14-Mar-2014 07:57 December 2019 •
IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper
If you require a change, please contact your sales representative or call Yellow Book Customer Service at 1-800-891-1899. SIGNATURE: __________________________
AAMZHMB2DNLMA
DUPLICATE PROOF
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Health care in a Minute By George W. Chapman
Lower drug costs: What’s been holdup in Congress?
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efore we overhaul our expensive health care system, we have to start with drug prices. So, Congress needs to get this seemingly no brainer bill done first. It’s called the Elijah Cummings Lower Drug Costs Now Act of 2019. It is well documented, almost ad nausea, that we pay way more for drugs (and use way more drugs per capita) than most countries. We spent $345 billion or over $1,000 per person on drugs last year. In countries with a single payer or universal health care model, the government uses its purchasing power to negotiate prices with drug manufacturers.
Our government — through the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services — covers 60 million people on Medicare and 70 million people on Medicaid. That’s a staggering 130 million people or 40% of the U.S. population. Canada negotiates drug prices and pays far less than we do. The purchasing power of our northern neighbor is a less than staggering 30 million people. CMS literally sets the fees for hospitals and physicians. There really isn’t any negotiation per se, unless CMS “listens “to hospital and physician trade associations counts. So why doesn’t CMS use its staggering 130 million people purchasing clout to negotiate drug fees? What’s the holdup? Simply: the drug lobby. It is the No. 1 lobby on the Hill, by far, spending $4 billion over the last 20 years and employing almost 1,300 drug lobbyists. That’s 2.4 lobbyists per congressperson. How are they not tripping over each other as they enter and exit congressional offices? The ubiquitous drug lobby has succeeded in making this no-brainer issue into a partisan issue by contributing heavily to campaigns. Curiously, by comparison, there is little to no partisan bickering or compunction when it comes to setting prices for hospitals and physicians. By doing so, Congress has unwittingly limited its ability/cash to spend like the drunken sailor drug lobby. The drug manufacturers attribute their high prices and exorbitant profits to research and development, the cost of going through Federal Drug Administration approval, getting the drug to market and potential lawsuits. All debatable, but I’ll concede those points. So, this begs the question: Why are they negotiating prices with Page 10
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anyone? Apparently, the U.S. government and U.S. consumers — paying anywhere from four to 120 times the price paid by other countries — are bearing most if not all of the costs of drug development. A lot of congressmen continue to parrot the drug lobby mantra that controlling drug prices will lead to less innovation and new drugs entering the market. No one is begrudging drug manufacturers a fair profit. Congressman Tom Reed (R-NY) incredibly said, “You are putting too much weight in the hands of the government dictating price.” But isn’t that how negotiations work? Isn’t that the whole point? Why can’t CMS be the 800-pound gorilla at the negotiation table when it comes to drugs? We’re talking 130 million lives. Congressmen like Reed seem to have no problem dictating hospital and physician prices. And to exacerbate this total inequity, commercial insurers were quick to jump on the CMS fee control bandwagon and mimic CMS payments to hospitals and physicians. We’re basically most of the way to a single payer system since CMS and commercial insurers are already paying hospitals and physicians about the same fee per procedure. Instead of a bill with some teeth that would simply and broadly allow CMS to negotiate prices for drugs, bipartisan bickering has watered down the bill to the point where they are actually debating how many drug prices CMS will be allowed to negotiate. Right now, the bill would allow CMS to negotiate a whopping 25 prices. But Congress has magnanimously allowed CMS to negotiate (ready?) 35 whole drug prices … by 2033. Thirteen years from now? Despite the almost unanimous consensus that drugs cost too, you can thank the drug lobby the next time you are at a fundraiser for a friend who can’t afford cancer drugs.
George W. Chapman is a healthcare business consultant who works exclusively with physicians, hospitals and healthcare organizations. He operates GW Chapman Consulting based in Syracuse. Email him at gwc@gwchapmanconsulting.com.
Smile with Dr. Suy
By Dr. Salina Suy
Defining Dentistry: What is a dental impression?
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appy December everyone! December means that Christmas is near, and I hope that you guys have had time to get a lot of your shopping done early. I started early this year because I realize how less stressful that is. I also prefer shopping in person, believe it or not! I hope you have a wonderful holiday season and I hope to see you guys again Suy in the New Year. I cannot believe 2020 is upon us! Thank you again for joining in on this months “Smile with Dr. Suy” column in our continuing series “Defining Dentistry.” This month’s column is on dental impressions.
What is a dental impression?
An impression is defined as an imitation of a person or thing; a dental impression is an impression of your mouth.
How are dental impressions taken?
There are only two ways impressions can be taken: physically and digitally. Physical impressions require a fitted tray and impression material. Depending on the procedure, the material is usually a putty-like mixture that sets hard over a period of time, usually 2 to 5 minutes. The tray is fitted in the patient’s mouth, material is laid in and then placed over the teeth. After the material is set, the tray with material will be taken out of the mouth and evaluated. This impression will be poured into a stone model or scanned later to become a 3D digital model. Digital impressions are done with an intraoral scanner. The teeth
IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • December 2019
must be dry for this procedure and the intraoral scanner is taken throughout the mouth as thousands of images are stitched together to create a 3D rendition of your mouth. The impression technique will depend on the procedure and your dentist.
Why would I need a dental impression?
Dental impressions allow dentists to evaluate your teeth outside of your mouth. Dental impressions are taken for many reasons, which include but are not limited to: — Diagnostic: Evaluation of your mouth using 3-D models to determine correct treatment planning — Dentures: For hard and soft tissue models to set teeth with wax and fabricate final dentures — Crown and bridge: For teeth or implant models to make fixed dental prosthetics that stay in the mouth — Sleep apnea and other oral appliances: The mandibular repositioning device, occlusal guards, sports guards and bleaching trays all require full mouth impressions. — Orthodontics: For the evaluation and fabrication of clear aligners to help straighten teeth Hopefully this column has helped make a good impression on the field of dentistry. As always, thank you for joining me in this month’s education series and hopefully we will learn more together next month. Feel free to contact me with questions and comments! Have some questions to ask me in person? Call for a free consultation — I look forward to meeting you! • Dr. Salina Suy is a health and wellness advocate and general dentist in Utica. Want to learn more? Visit Facebook @smilewithdrsuy or www.smilewithdrsuy.com.
SmartBites
Helpful tips
By Anne Palumbo
The skinny on healthy eating
Roast beef rounds up crucial nutrients However, how much is too much?
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o beef or not to beef? That is the question that plagues many as red meat has come under fire. Does its consumption cause cancer? Heart disease? Type 2 diabetes? Conversely, what benefits do we reap from eating beef? While the answers to these questions are complex, varied and continuously being investigated, the bottom line, according to leading experts and health organizations is this: It’s still a smart idea to reduce your red meat intake in order to reduce your risk of the diseases mentioned above. Reduce. It’s doable advice. For both health and environmental reasons, I don’t eat a lot of red meat. But I do eat some; and, at this festive time of year, I probably indulge more than I normally do. Roast beef, especially the leaner cuts, offers clear nutritional benefits. Not only is it packed with good-quality protein, but it also sizzles with impressive amounts of selenium, several B vitamins, zinc and iron. An average 3.5-oz serving of roast beef has about 25-28 grams of complete protein, which, for many, tackles over half of our daily needs. Protein helps to keep our muscles and bones
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strong, which is important for maintaining balance, mobility and independence as we age. Roast beef is a selenium superstar, with an average serving providing 50% of our daily needs. A powerful antioxidant, selenium fights oxidative stress and helps defend our body from chronic conditions, such as heart disease, cancer and Alzheimer’s. This essential mineral is also important for the proper functioning of our thyroid gland, which regulates metabolism and controls growth and development. Healthy doses of immune-boosting zinc, energy-producing iron and vitamins B-6, B-12 and niacin provide more good reasons to eat beef. Working together, the B vitamins strengthen our immune system, convert food to energy, keep our nerves in tiptop shape, and help make red blood cells. So, why do leading institutions, including the American Institute for Cancer Research, say we should limit our consumption to no more than about three portions per week (total: about 12-18 oz)? Strong evidence suggests a link between the regular consumption of red meat and colon cancer.
Garlic-Rosemary Roast Beef with Horseradish Sauce Adapted from Diabetic Living Magazine
3 pounds beef eye of round roast 1 teaspoon salt, divided ¾ teaspoon ground pepper, divided 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened 1 shallot, minced (1/4 cup) 2 tablespoons minced fresh rosemary (or 2 teaspoons dried) 4 cloves garlic, minced, divided 1 cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt 1½ tablespoons prepared horseradish 2-3 teaspoons Dijon mustard 3 teaspoons fresh lemon juice, more if prefer • Preheat oven to 400°F. • Season roast with ¾ teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon pepper. Heat oil in a large ovenproof skillet (see Tip) over medium-high heat. Add the roast and cook, turning every few minutes, until browned on all sides, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat. • Combine butter, shallot, rose-
Choose lean cuts, which run lower in saturated fat, cholesterol and calories. Anything with “round,” “chuck” or “loin” in its name is usually either extra lean or lean. For example, eye round roast has only 4 grams of total fat, l.4 grams of saturated fat, 54 mg of cholesterol, and about 165 calories per average serving versus prime rib that has 17 grams of total fat, 7 grams of saturated fat, 77 mg of cholesterol, and 265 calories. If “char”—a potential carcinogen— develops during the cooking process, scrape it off. mary, and 3 cloves minced garlic; spread on top of the roast. Transfer the pan to the oven. Roast until a thermometer inserted in the center of the meat registers 125-130°F for medium-rare, 35 to 40 minutes. Transfer the roast to a cutting board and let rest for 10 minutes. • Meanwhile, whisk remaining garlic, yogurt, horseradish, mustard, and lemon juice in a small bowl. Season with the remaining salt and pepper. Adjust seasonings, adding more lemon juice if needed. Slice the beef thinly and serve with the sauce. • Tip: If you don’t have a large ovenproof skillet, you can brown the roast in a large skillet and transfer it to a roasting pan for Step 3.
Anne Palumbo is a lifestyle colum-
nist, food guru, and seasoned cook, who has perfected the art of preparing nutritious, calorie-conscious dishes. She is hungry for your questions and comments about SmartBites, so be in touch with Anne at avpalumbo@aol.com.
Health center begins sharps program
he Mohawk Valley Health System Town of Webb Health Center, in partnership with Central Adirondack Partnership for the 21st Century, Inc., is accepting sharps in approved medical sharps containers. The center is located within the Town of Webb Professional Offices building. Many people use sharps such as needles, syringes and lancets as part of their home medical care. Proper disposal of sharps helps protect your family, the community, your garbage collector and the environment. People are advised to never throw sharps in the trash. The sharps disposal program came to fruition after a representative from the Old Forge Volunteer Ambulance Corp stated that on occasion, both the Old Forge and Inlet Ambulance Corps have found containers left outside their fire department buildings. “In the past, there hasn’t been a community resource for patients to dispose of their sharps, forcing many patients to travel significant distances to dispose of their items,” said Michael Attilio, vice president
of the MVHS Medical Group. “While the Town of Webb has roughly 1,800 year-round residents, our population swells to the tens of thousands in the summer as we are a tourist destination,” said Robin Hill, executive director of CAP-21. “Being able to provide this disposal option for our full-time and seasonal residents along with visitors is a huge asset and we appreciate the collaboration between CAP-21 and MVHS. This service will not only benefit Old Forge, but residents of Eagle Bay, Big Moose, Inlet and Raquette Lake.” The sharps containers will only be accepted from individuals, not businesses. The containers must be stored in approved, labeled sharps container. Sharps containers are often provided by or can be purchased at a pharmacy. Sharps containers must be dropped off during the health center’s hours of operation. The Town of Webb Health Center is located at 114 S. Shore Road, Old Forge, and is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays. For more information, call 315-3696619.
Rome Memorial conducts emergency vaccination drill Rome Memorial Hospital recently tested its readiness to conduct an emergency mass vaccination with a point of distribution drill for its employees. More than 250 employees were immunized against the flu during the drill. From left, Denise Hurd, a nurse in the employee health department, gives a shot to Eileen Luley, service line administrator for cardiopulmonary and sleep services.
December 2019 •
IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper
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Mental Health Are you on verge of a breakdown? Adhere to signs that you may need professional guidance By Barbara Pierce
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The sun wasn’t shining. It got darker every day. It got so bad I couldn’t even get out of bed. The smallest task felt overwhelming.” This is how “Queer Eye” star Karamo Brown described his depression on “CBS This Morning.”
Mental health issues — like Brown experienced — are real medical conditions caused by a variety of factors, usually by several overlapping causes. These conditions cause changes in a person’s mood, thinking or behavior. They may affect the person’s ability to function every day and to relate to others. Each person’s
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experience will be different. Mental health issues are common. In any one year, nearly one in five people will experience some kind of mental health issue. “I didn’t think it was ever going to get better,” said Brown. “I didn’t even know help was available.” Help is available. “Seeing a counselor can definitely help,” said licensed clinical social worker Andre Cuda, owner and operator of Cuda Counseling in Herkimer and Rome. “It’s helpful to speak with someone about what’s going on,” he added. “And it is confidential. Also, it helps to understand that what you’re feeling is common. So many people suffer with similar issues, yet they feel alone.” Here are a few things that let you know that it might be time to ask for help: — You’re falling behind in school, work or life responsibilities in general. “For me, it was falling behind in school mainly. I stopped going to classes, I didn’t study for exams and ended up failing. I’d procrastinate on everything. It got to the point where I had these overwhelming moments of stress and anxiety,” Karissa Pierce wrote describes online in terms o fwhat she went through. — You withdraw from your family, friends and social activities. You start avoiding people and only interact with others when you must. You drop out of the activities you used to enjoy. — You worry excessively, or feel tense and anxious most of the time. — You feel overly sad or low. You stop enjoying life overall. Things that used to make you feel good don’t do that for you anymore. You find it hard to smile and you never laugh anymore. Everything around you just becomes dull and dark like a rain cloud is above you constantly. — You have highs, feelings of euphoria. You’re abnormally upbeat, jumpy or wired, with more energy, you’re more talkative, and aren’t sleeping well; your thoughts may be racing. — You have frequent, strong feelings of irritability or anger. You
Your multidisciplinary team of board-certified physicians meet with youto create your personalized treatment plan. As part of the area’s only academic medical center, Upstate can offer more treatment options including robotic thoracic surgery, immunotherapy and clinical trials and the largest array of Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapies (SBRT) for precise treatment, fewer side effects and a faster recovery.
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IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • December 2019
become irritated at small things that never used to bug you. — You’re either sleeping too much or you can’t sleep well. — Your eating habits have changed. You’re never hungry or you have increased hunger. — You stop taking care of yourself. You stop showering daily. You brush your teeth once a day every couple of days if that. You begin to put less effort into how you look when you go out. — You have thoughts of suicide. You feel hopeless, can’t see any way out, and think things will never get better. You feel like you can’t go on like this; you’re just a burden to your family. You can get better and get your life back. The first step is asking for help. What happens when I see a counselor? “At the first appointment, we’ll identify the problem, collect information about the problem and about you,” explained Cuda. “Before you leave the first appointment, we’ll work together to start finding solutions that will work for you.” “How many times you would come to see me would depend on what your goals for the therapy are,” he added. The price varies depending on insurance. Medication can be an effective tool for some; it does take time to work. If Cuda felt medication would help you, and you agreed, he would refer you to your primary care physician or a psychiatrist. For Brown, reaching out for professional help was a turning point. He realized he could have a better life. He encourages people struggling with mental health issues to not give up and seek help that can change their lives. “You don’t have to live in this dark cloud every day; you can get help. Your life can change. I’m living proof of that,” he says. If you do not have insurance or funds, the Mobile Crisis Assessment Team is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at 315-272-6228 or 844-732-6228. Crisis counselors are on-call to speak with individuals or members of the community.
Mental Health
Mental Meltdown MCAT 24-hour crisis hotline valuable resource for those in trouble By Barbara Pierce
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Call us if you’re feeling overwhelmed and you need someone to talk to.” Licensed clinical social worker Kristin Sauerbier invites anyone who is having a difficult day and might benefit from some extra support to call the MCAT 24-hour crisis hotline. As director of the Mobile Crisis Assessment Team, Sauerbier believes there is a misconception in the community that people must be having thoughts of suicide before they can reach out to MCAT for help. This is what she would like people to know: “We’re here 24 hours a day, seven days a week for people who need a little support as well as those who are seriously depressed and having thoughts of suicide.” The services are available to children and adults. “There is no charge for our services,” she added. “We’ll talk over the phone, or go to where you are if you’re agreeable to talking in person.” MCAT is available to anyone seeking crisis intervention in six counties: Oneida, Herkimer, Schoharie, Otsego, Delaware and Chenango counties. It is a contracting partnership of The Neighborhood Center, Inc. and the Oneida, Herkimer, Schoharie, Otsego, Delaware and Chenango departments of mental health, working collaboratively with a number of community agencies and resources. MCAT accepts referrals from individuals in crisis, their families, law enforcement, school personnel or the general community. What constitutes a crisis is very different for everyone, Sauerbier clarified. It can range from someone who is temporarily overwhelmed with life’s issues and would benefit from talking through the situation, to someone who is thinking of hurting themselves or others. Some of the crisis that MCAT responds to include threats to harm self or others, behavioral issues, severe depression or anxiety, mental health symptoms, erratic behavior, behaviors that may lead to police intervention, or any problem that is causing a serious problem in functioning. “We’re staffed by mental health professionals who have background and experience to understand the thoughts that you are having and
what you may be feeling,” she added. Mental health professionals are especially trained to diagnose mental health conditions and provide coping skills, intervention and treatment. Most have at least a master’s degree or more advanced education, training and credentials.
Reaching out
“There are a couple of ways we provide services,” Sauerbier noted. “Folks can call our crisis hotline and talk over the phone, or we’ll go to where you are to meet with you in person. Our counselors can talk you through a crisis and help you develop a plan using resources in the community. Also, we can refer you to an in-house case manager or peer advocate for continuing assistance. “In addition, professionals in the community such as doctors, those in law enforcement, or school personnel can refer someone to us. Family members or anyone in the community can refer someone. Quite often the police contact us.” This range of services — from resolving the crisis and debriefing to ongoing peer support — has been especially helpful to provide stability in the lives of persons who are struggling with mental health or substance abuse issues, she said. The goal of MCAT is to de-escalate a crisis situation, prevent possible harm, keep the problem outside of the legal system and divert people from the emergency room and in-patient care when it may not be required. “Going to the ER when you’re having a mental health crisis can be traumatic and often is not the best way to get help,” she added. MCAT crisis counselors can meet with you in the community — in your home, in a Dunkin’ Donuts, or anywhere you wish. If you need to get to the emergency room, they can get you there. When a member of the team talks with someone in crisis, they find out just what is going on, what may have caused the crisis, and assess the situation. They evaluate what supports the person has at that time, and develop a plan to de-escalate the crisis and prevent it from happening again. They may do a safety contract so that the person can remain in
the community, with supports and resources in place. The team links the person up to services that may be beneficial for ongoing assistance. For example, if on-going counseling would help, the person is referred to resources for continued counseling. If medication would be appropriate, the person is referred to a resource where he or she can obtain medication. If in-patient care is necessary, a team member arranges for that
“Going to the ER when you’re having a mental health crisis can be traumatic and often is not the best way to get help.”
intervention. They coordinate with school, medical and mental health providers, and other agencies for persons at risk. If you or someone you know is in crisis, referrals may be made to the Mobile Crisis Assessment Team 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year by calling 315-272-6228 or 844-732-6228. Crisis counselors are on-call 24/7 to speak with individuals or members of the community.
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Mental Health Down on Dough Financial stress rates as worst mental health issue in state By Traci DeLore
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inancial stress topped the list of mental health issues New Yorkers searched for online, according to a recent study by TermLife2Go., a Utah-based insurance company. With the holiday season here, often one of the most expensive times of the year, finances are probably on a lot of peoples’ minds. But some area experts say there are things people can do to help alleviate financial stress. Life today is stressful and Kovacs fast-paced regardless of our financial situation, says Greg Kovacs, a marriage and family therapist it Utica. Life used to be somewhat predictable and stable, he says. We used to see the same people every day, and the people around us were generally similar to us. Today’s digitally connected world has changed all that, he says. It almost provides too many options for us to see and it begins to erode people’s sense of self, Kovacs says. That has led to a society that tries to keep up with the digital ‘Joneses’, he adds. People want the lifestyles they see online, and some will go into debt to achieve it. That debt creates anxiety, stress over paying bills, and lower self-esteem. “It isn’t so much being poor that causes difficulties in mental health,” he says. “It’s having debt.” With that debt comes poor
self-esteem and low self-worth. People feel bad about themselves for getting into debt, but instead of seeking help with their debt, they shop more because shopping releases hormones that make us feel good. With that, a vicious cycle is born, Kovacs says. He believes this is why so many people are feeling financial stress. There are, however, ways to combat this stress, he says. The way we think creates physical reactions in our bodies, he notes. In today’s world, our thoughts often don’t always match the actual situation at hand, leading to decisions that add to our stress. For example, people may finance the purchase of a new phone when they really can’t afford it because they believe they must have the “right” phone in order to fit in and be successful. “We have to make sure we are thinking clearly when we make a
financial decision,” Kovacs says. Before making a purchase that’s going to put you in debt, stop and think, he suggests. “Is it a need or a want? If it’s just a want, ask yourself if you have the emotional ability to say no?”
What’s your real worth?
People need to re-learn what is important to define self-worth, he adds. That new phone doesn’t make you a valuable person. People need to “bring it back” to themselves to define self-worth, and steer it away from what we see on social media, he advises. That can help people avoid going into debt to fit in, he notes. For those already in debt, there is also hope and help, says Whitesboro financial coach Diane Kingsley. It involves two things — learning a bit about finances and making some plans, she says. If you can take the
Social Anxiety It’s a shrinking world for those suffering with disorder By David L. Podos
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ocial anxiety can be a debilitating mental health condition. It slowly shrinks the word for those who are experiencing it. Social anxiety affects both men and women, but due to cultural conditioning particularly in the United States, men seem to suffer the most because they are supposed to be “strong” and through denial end up suffering for longer periods. Women, on the other hand, have a greater propensity to be more open with their feelings and to seek help. While this does not take away any anguish they are experiencing, it does help accelerate their recovery. Social anxiety that is not treated can lead to other more complicated and Page 14
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dehumanizing mental health issues such as agoraphobia. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, some people stop going into situations because of a fear of being overwhelmed by anxiety and not being able to escape or get help. These people have agoraphobia, and they typically avoid places where they feel immediate escape might be difficult, such as shopping malls, public transportation, and other open places like parking lots or enclosed places like theaters. Agoraphobia is particularly common in people with panic disorder, which can feel like immense dread and lead to difficulty breathing, chest pain, and confusion. Their world may become small-
er as they are constantly on guard, waiting for the next panic attack. Some people develop a fixed route or territory, and it may become impossible for them to travel beyond their safety zones without suffering severe anxiety. In very severe cases, social anxiety left untreated can morph into the worst case of agoraphobia. Those suffering on this level become virtually shut-ins, never leaving their place of residence or even stepping outside to retrieve the morning paper or mail. According to webmd.com, there’s no one thing that causes social anxiety disorder. Genetics likely has something to do with it: If you have a family member with social phobia, you’re more at risk of having it too.
IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • December 2019
time to plan a vacation, you can take the time to learn about finances, she adds. Debt is, by far, the biggest stressor she sees with clients and that comes from not having a spending plan. A spending plan is a simple blueprint that shows how much income a person has and determines how much they spend on those needs and wants that Kovacs noted. Needs are things like housing, clothing, and food, and those things need to be budgeted before one can determine how much they have to spend on wants, Kingsley says. Everyone should have a basic retirement plan, emergency plan, spending plan, and plan to get out of debt, Kingsley says. However, many people don’t cover all those bases, she adds. “I think people get overwhelmed and then run from it,” she said. While there is a lot of information about financial planning online, it can be difficult to figure out and decide what works best for their individual situation, Kingsley says. Financial coaches such as herself can help people understand all their options and make the best choices. The study by TermLife2Go used mental health sites including National Alliance on Mental Illness (www. nami.org), TalkSpace online therapy (www.talkspace.com), and MentalHealth.gov to compile a list of the most common mental health conditions. It then ran those conditions with the corresponding symptoms and stressors though Google Trends to identify the concerns searched most frequently in each state. The most searched terms for the nation were internet addiction, major depressive disorder, and memory loss. It could also be linked to having an overactive amygdala — the part of the brain that controls your fear response. Social anxiety disorder usually comes on at around 13 years of age. It can be linked to a history of abuse, bullying, or teasing. Shy kids are also more likely to become socially anxious adults, as are children with overbearing or controlling parents. If you develop a health condition that draws attention to your appearance or voice, that could trigger social anxiety as well.
Expert insight
Dominick Nicotera is the director of DRN Counseling and Consulting Services in Utica, and he works with many people who suffer from social anxiety and agoraphobia. Nicotera is a licensed mental health practitioner as well as a licensed clinical social worker. He holds a master’s degree in social work from Syracuse University with a clinical psychotherapist track, and
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Mental Health Have kids? Reduce the overwhelm! Ready to erupt? Hang in there! By Barbara Pierce
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f you’re a mom, you’ve probably had that “Gaahh!” feeling? Like your brain is about to explode, and you’re ready to scream if someone asks you one more question. You’re not alone. Living with kids is hectic. Kids are messy, uncoordinated, overly dramatic, and need your help to do almost everything. With kids, life feels overwhelmSalamone ing at times — maybe most of the time. “Since I became a mom, my days of laying on the couch watching the latest runway show on the E channel were pretty much over!” says Kelley Salamone in her Parenting Guide
for the Mohawk Valley, MV Parent (https://www.mvparentonline. com/). “My days are filled with running to the grocery store, preschool dropoffs, practices and then trying to find time to keep up with all the laundry and housecleaning. Let’s just say I rarely sit, let alone lay, on the couch to watch TV,” she said. “Being a mom is tough, there’s no doubt about it.” Overwhelm may feel like being bogged down and depleted. You can’t catch your breath, physically or mentally. You forget appointments or always run late. You have trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or getting enough sleep. You feel like your attention is pulled in all directions. You’re distracted and frazzled. If you’re feeling overwhelmed and your family life is chaotic, it’s bad for you and for your kids. Research finds links between household chaos and poor academic outcomes, behavior, sleep, and health in children. With so many of us feeling over-
whelmed, with chaotic lives, we’ve begun to accept it as the new normal. But does it need to be that way? Life is unlikely to get slower. Stop, take a breath, and get some perspective. Here are simple ways to reduce overwhelm in your life: — Figure out what’s important: Prioritize. Think about where you’re having the most trouble and attack that first. Is your house always too loud for anybody to think? Figure out how to reduce the noise level. For example, have no-TV hours, or set times for noisy activities like watching TV, playing games or banging away on that drum set. If it’s about clutter and crowdedness, throw out items you really don’t need. Keep going through and throwing things out. Make it a habit to keep things in their proper places and involve every member of the family in the process. Here’s what works for Salamone: “Each night, after bath time, the kids and I play the pick-up game. We walk around and put every item back in its place.”
Gear it down
— Slow down: Avoid over-scheduling, and you’ll gain more opportunities to make memories together as a family. Cancel everything you don’t need to do. If you’re having trouble juggling things because everyone has all sorts of extracurricular activities, seriously consider cutting some of them out. You can’t get Bobby to
chess classes at the same time as you get Susie to her coding class. Cancel both and you get to spend time with Susie and Bobby. How great is that? Choose to do the things that fully engage you — the things that bring you a sense of purpose and wellbeing. You’ll get far more value from fully experiencing one thing than trying to do five things at once. Learn to say “no” to the things you don’t want to do. If the thought of saying “no” makes you reel in horror, try taking baby steps by saying, “Let me think about it,” or “Can I get back to you?” — Create a routine: Design a basic structure for your family’s day, with predictable, regular times for you to do the everyday stuff — like getting ready for the day, doing homework, sitting down with the family for dinner, and getting ready for bed. Having a set of activities everyone can count on will help you and your child meet daily challenges and free you up for more leisure time. On her blog, “My life as a mom,” Salamone describes her routine, including encouraging her kids to make their beds every morning, doing a load of laundry every morning, and making lunches, coffee and cleaning the kitchen before bed. “The constant feeling of housework hanging over my head has disappeared,” she says. “I now have extra time during the day and in the evening to spend time with my family.”
Put Some Distance Between You and Invasive Knee Surgery. I refused to let my chronic knee symptoms slow me down. So when an MRI showed a bone defect - also known as a bone marrow lesion - in the subchondral bone near my knee*, my doctor recommended The Subchondroplasty® Procedure. This minimally-invasive technique fills these defects with a biomimetic bone substitute that is replaced with new bone during the healing process.1,2,3 Best of all? I’m back on the court.
Visit subchondroplasty.com to learn more about The Subchondroplasty® Procedure and find a surgeon in your area.
*AccuFill BSM may only be used in areas not intrinsic to the stability of the bony structure. Not an actual patient. Results are not necessarily typical, indicative, or representative of all recipient patients. Results will vary due to health, weight, activity and other variables. Not all patients are candidates for this product and/or procedure. Only a medical professional can determine the treatment appropriate for your specific condition. Appropriate post-operative activities and pain will differ from patient to patient. Talk to your surgeon about whether the Subchondroplasty Procedure is right for you and to discuss the risks of the procedure. For additional information or to find a surgeon near you, visit www.subchondroplasty.com or call 1-800-HIP-KNEE. All content herein is protected by copyright, trademarks and other intellectual property rights, as applicable, owned by or licensed to Zimmer Biomet or its affiliates unless otherwise indicated, and must not be redistributed, duplicated or disclosed, in whole or in part, without the express written consent of Zimmer Biomet. ©2019 Zimmer Biomet or its affiliates. 1. Knaack D, Goad ME, Aiolova M, Rey C, Tofighi A, Chakravarthy P, Lee DD. Resorbable Calcium Phosphate Bone Substitute. J Biomed Mater Res. 1998 Winter;43(4):399-409. 2. Colon DA, Yoon BJ, Russell TA, Cammisa FP, Abjornson C. Assessment of the Injection Behavior of Commercially Available Bone BSMs for Subchondroplasty® Procedures. Knee. 2015 Dec;22(6):597-603. doi: 10.1016/j. knee.2015.06.017. Epub 2015 Jul 23. 3. Hernandez, C.J. Keaveny, T.M. A Biomechanical Perspective on Bone Quality. Bone. 2006 Dec; 39 (6): 1173-1181.
903.207 Rev B | Copyright © 2019 Zimmer Biomet
903.207 Rev A | Copyright © 2019 Zimmer Biomet
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Don’t sugar coat it! Local diabetes education program builds awareness in Oneida County By Daniel Baldwin
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he trend of New York state residents diagnosed with diabetes has increased the past 15 years, according to the U.S. Diabetes Surveillance System. But no area throughout the state had the greatest number of diabetics than Oneida County. In the Surveillance System study, Oneida County’s average amount of diabetics exceeded New York state’s average. Most people throughout the United States get Type 2 diabetes, according to CNY Diabetes Education Director Caroline Jacobus, and eating access amounts of sugar is one way to get this type. People who are diagnosed with diabetes and leave it unattended have a greater risk of getting a heart attack, stroke, or any other heart-related disease. This disease could also damage a person’s kidneys, eyes, and blood vessels. “The majority of people with diabetes have Type 2 diabetes, and there is a very strong genetic component with this type,” Jacobus said. “Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to unwanted complications such as eye, kidney, nerve disease, heart attack and stroke. “It should be taken very seriously and the person should come up with strategies to control this chronic disease.”
Based on U.S. Diabetes Surveillance System data and the health dangers that await a person after getting diabetes, it is no question that this disease is the glaring issue throughout Oneida County that must be focused on in order to prevent the increasing trend of heart-related deaths. CNY Diabetes Education was one of several local organizations that stepped up to the plate to address the county’s diabetes increase and raise awareness of this disease during National Diabetes Month in November. CNY Diabetes Education provides individual and group class sessions that teach residents how to manage diabetes and avoid getting these heart-related diseases. This health program has been serving the Mohawk Valley community since 1993 and it is supported under the Mohawk Valley Health System Medical Group. “Research shows that more than 56 percent of people with pre-diabetes may be able to delay or prevent a diabetes diagnosis by participating in a year-long lifestyle changing program,” Jacobus said. “Diabetes is a major chronic disease across the U.S. with serious complications if not controlled.
Leads to other disease processes
“People who have diabetes are at greater risk of heart disease.
Attending diabetes education will assist them with lifestyle changes to support risk reduction. We provide comprehensive education services that teach people how to manage diabetes, including individual and group sessions offered in the morning, afternoon and evening.” During National Diabetes Month, the program was less focused on fundraising and more driven on advertising. The program’s communications specialist John Latini said the organization recorded and aired a radio commercial highlighting diabetes awareness. The group’s name and message was up on billboards, and it also posted weekly diabetes education videos on Facebook. “It’s important for people to know that we have an award-winning diabetes education program that helps people with pre-diabetes or managing their diabetes,” Latini said. “I think people tend to stay away from it because they’re unsure what it really is. So our main focus is
trying to highlight this program for people so they can take advantage of it.” Throughout the rest of the year, the CNY Diabetes education program puts together community health events at Union Station in Utica. The health events the group put on earlier in the year had good turnouts, according to Latini, and they serve as another opportunity for residents to learn how to manage diabetes and avoid getting other diseases. “These health events are system-wide,” Latini said, “so it’s all of our services that we offer highlighting everything that we offer as an organization. We do things including cancer services, cardiac services, diabetes, and stroke awareness. We’re just letting the community know everything we have to offer.” “I think that National Diabetes Month helps people realize that they are not alone,” Latini said, “and that they do have the support and resources out there available to manage and live with it.”
New CycleNation event celebrates survivors, raises funds to fight stroke
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troke and heart disease are largely preventable. More than 160 people shared that message, and invested in their own health, at the Mohawk Valley’s inaugural CycleNation. The event, held at Thrive Athletic Center in New Hartford, raised more than $50,000. For two hours, teams of four rode stationary bikes in relay style to help the American Stroke Association, a division of the American Heart Association, fight stroke. Stroke is the nation’s No. 5 killer. About 800,000 people in the United States have a stroke every year. That’s more than the populations of Oneida, Madison, Lewis, Herkimer and Otsego counties combined. “CycleNation is a rally ride to educate and encourage our community to stay active and incorporate a healthy lifestyle into their daily routine,” said CycleNation Chairman Albert Pylinski of NYCM Insurance. “Cycling strengthens heart muscles, Page 16
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lowers resting pulse, and reduces cholesterol. Additionally, cycling increases brain function, processing speed and mental alertness.” Being physically active is important to prevent heart disease and stroke. To improve overall cardiovascular health, the AHA-ASA suggest at least 150 minutes per week of moderate exercise, or 75 minutes per week of vigorous exercise. “We are making great progress in preventing, beating and treating stroke,” said Christine Kisiel, executive director of the AHA. “But it is still a leading cause of long-term disability. It’s very moving to hear all the survivors share their stories at CycleNation and encourage the crowd to live their best lives.” CycleNation is a high-energy, indoor stationary cycling event. Teams of four ride stationary bikes in relay format. Each team member rides for 30 minutes. Throughout the evening, riders met stroke survivors and local celebrities. Teams raised money to
The team from Hunt Real Estate celebrates during CycleNation. help fund research, education and advocacy programs. CycleNation is nationally sponsored by Amgen Cardiovascular and is locally sponsored by NYCM Insurance, Mountainside Medical
IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • December 2019
Equipment, Ford English Financial Group and media sponsor Roser Communications Network. For more information, visit CycleNation.org/Utica.
Ask The Social
Security Office
From the Social Security District Office
Social Security covers disabled children
C
hildren are our future. We share our knowledge and talent with them, we pass on our values to them knowing they will share those gifts. Social Security safeguards children all year long, but we’d like to take this opportunity to share information about our programs that provide direct support to children. The latest information available says that in 2018 the Social Security program distributed about $2.7 billion each month to benefit about 4.1 million children on average each month because one or both of their parents are disabled, retired or deceased. Those dollars help to provide the necessities of life for family members and help make it possible for those children to complete high school. When a working parent becomes disabled or dies, Social Security benefits help stabilize the family’s financial future. Children with disabilities are among our most vulnerable citizens. The Social Security Administration is dedicated to helping those with qualifying disabilities and their families through the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program, which is separate from the Social Security program. To qualify for SSI: • The child must have a physical or mental condition, or a combination of conditions, resulting in “marked and severe functional limitations.” This means that the
Q&A
Q: I plan to retire in spring. How soon can I file for my Social Security benefits?
A: You can file four months before you plan to receive benefits. Go ahead and apply now if you plan to retire when winter’s frost finally lets up. To apply, go to www.socialsecurity.gov/applytoretire. Applying online has never been easier — you can do it from the comfort of your home. All you need is 15 minutes and internet access.
Q: I’m retiring early, at age 62, and I receive investment income from a rental property I own. Does investment income count as earnings?
A: No. We count only the wages you earn from a job or your net profit if you’re self-employed. Non-work income such as annuities, investment income, interest, capital gains and other government benefits are not counted and will not affect your So-
condition(s) must severely limit your child’s activities; and • The child’s condition(s) must be severe, last for at least 12 months, or be expected to result in death. If the parents of the child or children have more income or resources than are allowed, then the child or children will not qualify for SSI. You can read more about children’s benefits at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/ EN-05-10026.pdf. Social Security and SSI also covers many chronic illnesses and conditions. The Compassionate Allowances program is a way to quickly identify people with diseases and other medical conditions that, by definition, meet the standards for disability benefits under the Social Security and SSI programs. Thousands of children receive SSI benefits because they have one of the conditions on the Compassionate Allowances list at www.socialsecurity.gov/compassionateallowances/ conditions.htm. Keep in mind, Social Security and SSI are two very distinct and separate programs, and eligibility for each is different. Visit www.socialsecurity.gov/ people/kids to learn more about all we do to care for children. Social Security is with you and your children throughout your life’s journey, securing today and tomorrow. If you know a family who needs our help, please share these resources with them.
We We did did it. it. We did it. Twice. Twice.
Twice.
Oneida Health is ranked among America’s Top 2% of HOSPITALS for Patient Safety & Experience
Oneida Health is ranked among
Oneida Health is ranked among
America’s Top 2% of HOSPITALS
America’s Top 2% of HOSPITALS
for Patient Safety & Experience
for Patient Safety & Experience
cial Security benefits. Most pensions will not affect your benefits. However, your benefit may be affected by government pensions earned through work on which you did not pay Social Security tax. You can retire online at www.socialsecurity.gov. For more information, call us toll-free at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778).
Visit oneidahealth.org/awards to learn more
Q: I am applying for Extra Help with Medicare prescription drug costs. Can state agencies help with my Medicare costs?
A: When you file your application for Extra Help with Medicare prescription drug costs, you can start your application process for the Medicare Savings Programs—state programs that provide help with other Medicare costs. When you apply for Extra Help, Social Security will send information to your state unless you tell us not to on the application. Your state will contact you to help you apply for a Medicare Savings Program. Learn more by visiting www.socialsecurity.gov/prescriptionhelp. December 2019 •
Visit oneidahealth.org/awards to learn more
Visit oneidahealth.org/awards to learn more
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Studying the Spectrum Local organizations partner to learn causes of autism By Barbara Pierce
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ive organizations in the Mohawk Valley have partnered to discover the causes of autism spectrum disorder. These organizations signed an agreement to support research being done by the Masonic Medical Research Institute in Utica. The purpose of the agreement is contributing to research that is being done by MMRI into the causes of autism. The organizations partnering with MMRI include the Kelberman Center, Resource Center for Independent Living, ADHD & Autism Psychological Services and Advocacy, and Upstate Cerebral Palsy. “We’re very excited about it,” said Maria Kontaridis, director of research at MMRI. “Our hope is that we’ll identify things that will actually make a difference in people’s lives.” “As we don’t treat patients here, having access to patient samples through collaborations with the organizations who serve those with autism is a great opportunity, so that we can begin to understand what’s going on and look at treatment,” Kontaridis said. MMRI is an internationally recognized nonprofit medical research institute dedicated to scientific research that improves the health and quality of life for all. Its mission is to conduct high-quality research aimed at developing a deep understanding of diseases and generating innovative cures and treatments. ASD is a developmental disability that affects an individual’s ability to communicate and ability to interact with others. Deficits and challenges vary greatly from child to child — no two children with ASD are the same. Because of the wide range of abilities and disabilities, it is called a
spectrum disorder. According to the Centers for Disease Control, ASD affects nearly one in 59 children in the United States. While ASD is incurable, the support of the four organizations will further the research to identify possible causes which will lead to better treatment for ASD. “We’re pretty excited about this research that’s emerging here,” said Erik Jacobson, chief psychologist, Upstate Cerebral Palsy. “The researchers they’ve brought to this area are incredible, like Dr. Kontaridis.” “Genetic research will help us understand the factors that are contributing to the rise in autism that we’ve been seeing. It’s a complex disorder; every kid is a little different,” Jacobson said. For families that volunteer to be a part of the research, it will be easy, explained Jacobson. It is non-invasive and involves collecting saliva of persons in the project. “This is nothing for parents to be concerned about,” he noted. “We’re already starting to profile families,” said Kontaridis. “We’ll collect profiles of families in the area and study affected and unaffected individuals to identify the genes
Health News in Brief CNY Diabetes education program recognized The Mohawk Valley Health System’s National Diabetes Prevention Program, part of the Central New York Diabetes Education Program, has been awarded full recognition from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Diabetes Prevention Recognition Program for the fourth consecutive year. “Research shows that the risk of developing diabetes can be reduced by almost 60 percent with successful completion of this program, and reduced by 70 percent for participants over the age of 60 years,” said Caroline Jacobus, director of CNY Diabetes. “Many insurance providers now cover eligible beneficiaries to attend the program, including Medicare and Medicaid.” CDC recognition provides the quality assurance measures by which an organization demonstrates its abilPage 18
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ity to effectively deliver this lifestyle change program. The DPRP provides equitable standards and operating guidelines that all providers follow in order to be fully recognized by the CDC. For more information, contact CNY Diabetes at 315- 624-5620.
Valley Health Services names employee of quarter Hailey Brenan has been named as Valley Health Services’ employee of the third quarter. Brenan joined VHS on Aug. 10, 2011 as a resident aide and became an LPN on Aug. 16. Brenan’s commitment to residents and proBrenan viding excellence in health care empower her in going
that cause autism. A variety of genes could be involved.”
Genetic exploration
Kontaridis explained they are getting tissue samples from families with an affected family member, isolating their DNA, and then will attempt to determine which gene is causing the ASD. “We hope that the preliminary data will generate more financing, as the project will probably be ongoing for years,” she added. “We’re very excited about our recently formalized collaboration with MMRI and other organizations,” added Leah Phaneuf, chief clinical officer at The Kelberman Center. The center provides state-of-the-art programs and service for children and adults with ASD and their families. “By joining forces as a community, we’re able to develop a stronger team to better our understanding of the assessment and treatment of autism,” she said. “To start, we’ll meet to align our efforts and define our direction for the future. We look forward to this collaborative adventure.” “This is an exciting and promising collaboration,” said Andy above and beyond on the job. Brenan’s colleagues could not say enough about her. “They are thrilled she has received this recognition, indicating that Hailey is productive, professional and team-oriented,” a VHS spokesperson said. Brenan is a graduate of BOCES’ LPN program. She strives to grow personally and professionally in her career. Brenan lives with her husband in Little Falls. She has two dogs that she loves to take out on long walks.
‘Fall Freeze’ raises funds to combat diabetes Mountainside Medical Equipment in Marcy was the presenting sponsor for the sixth annual Hockey Fights T1D Fall Freeze, and helped to raise over $1,700 in funds for Type 1 diabetes research. The event, held by Hockey Fights T1D, a fundraising and awareness organization for Type 1 diabetes, took place at the New Hartford Recreation Center. Money raised by the yearly event is donated to JDRF, formerly known
IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • December 2019
Lopez-Williams, president and CEO of ADHD & Autism Psychological Services and Advocacy. His organization specializes in assessment and treatment of neuro-developmental disorders, including ADHD and autism. “I am a native Utican and can speak directly to the history of brain drain from this region. MMRI and this recent collaboration is an important aspect of the intellectual revival in this region,” he said. “We’re proud to partner with MMRI on research related to ASD,” he added. “We conduct thousands of diagnostic evaluations annually which provides great opportunities for our families to participate in research that fuels our understanding of ASD. “For example, research conducted as part of this collaboration has strong potential to add to the scientific literature on the genetic underpinnings of ASD and relate those findings to the behavioral expression of ASD. Such understanding is critical to improvements in the prevention, assessment, and treatment of ASD.” The partnership between these five prominent organizations benefits not only autism research but the entire community. By collaborating, the organizations showcase the innovative leadership within the Mohawk Valley. According to those involved in the collaboration, the research won’t just benefit the Mohawk Valley, but will benefit communities throughout the world. “Through the support of these organizations working together, autism research conducted here will allow for better knowledge and understanding of this disease in Utica and around the world,” Kontaridis saod. “We thank these organizations for their generosity and eagerness to help in the fight against ASD.” as the Juvenile Diabetes Research Fund, the leading global organization funding Type 1 diabetes research. Thirty players participated in the draft-style, exhibition hockey game that is the centerpiece of the Fall Freeze. It is open yearly to players of all skill levels, and they traditionally wear event-exclusive hockey jerseys promoting Hockey Fights T1D and JDRF. The event also consisted of hockey skills competitions as well as fundraising raffles, with prizes donated by local businesses. The family owned and operated Mountainside Medical Equipment maintains a regular presence at local youth hockey events in Central New York thanks to the participation of staff members and their families. Matthew Roach, founder and executive director of Hockey Fights T1D, created the organization after his son Logan was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. The organization raises funds for JDRF by holding hockey games and tournaments, as well as by offering fan experience events in partnership with professional hockey teams, such as the Syracuse Crunch.
Health News Rome Memorial Hospital president-CEO retires President-chief executive officer David Lundquist recently resigned his position with Rome Memorial Hospital. Lundquist cited the need to spend more time with his family in Oklahoma and Arkansas as a reason for his resignation. “My retirement comes at a time when the hospital is positioned for growth Lundquist with the addition of several new specialists,” said Lundquist, who has served as hospital CEO since March 2016. At an upcoming meeting, the board will initiate the process for the search and hiring of the next president and CEO. In the meantime, Mark Murphy, chief strategy officer at St. Joseph’s Health, has been named interim president and CEO while that search is undertaken. RMH has been an affiliate of St. Joseph’s Health since March of 2017.
Orthopedic surgeon joins Rome practice Board-certified orthopedic surgeon Mark Moriarty is accepting new patients at Rome Medical Practice Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, 107 E. Chestnut St. A member of Rome Memorial Hospital’s medical staff, Moriarty joins R. Mitchell Rubinovich and Alfred Moretz III Moriarty at the Chestnut Commons practice, which has been open in Rome since 2005. Moriarty has more than 33 years of experience in orthopedic medicine with a focus on general orthopedics, adult reconstructive surgery of the knee, hip and shoulder, sports medicine and trauma, as well as arthroscopic procedures of the knee and shoulder. Moriarty comes to Rome after spending most of his career in the Southeast, including the past 19 years in North Carolina. In addition to his work in private practice orthopedic medicine, Moriarty has served as an assistant clinical professor of orthopedics at Duke University Medical Center as well as working with the United States Air Force’s 56th Fighter Wing in Tampa, Florida. Certified by the American Board of Surgery, Moriarty earned his medical degree from Georgetown University School of Medicine in Washington, D.C. He completed his residency in orthopedic surgery at Monmouth Medical Center in Long Branch, New Jersey, the oldest orthopedic residency program in that state. Want to advertise? Call 315-749-7070!
Spiritual support extended at Rome Memorial Rome Memorial Hospital has partnered with the Rome Clergy Association to strengthen pastoral care to patients, family and staff. Whatever your faith tradition or spiritual background, the Rome Clergy Association is available to help patients draw on their spiritual strengths for healing in body, mind and spirit. “A patient, family member or staff member can request a visit from a pastor from their home church or we can recommend a pastor for you,” Rome Clergy Association Chairman Rev. Sam Pendergrast said. “The pastors provide spiritual care and comfort in keeping with the patients’ and families’ beliefs and values and will inquire about values, beliefs and rituals as needed,” Pendergrast added. RMH patients and their families can request a visit by an on-call pastor from Rome-area churches through the hospital’s nursing staff or by calling the nursing supervisor at 315-338-7000. The Rome Clergy Association represents leaders in the faith community who come together to support and encourage one another and “work in unity to love and serve the city of Rome,” Pendergrast said. The association provides the hospital with contact information for area churches. All clergy participate in a joint orientation and are required to have a hospital identification badge. For additional information regarding serving the spiritual needs of hospitalized patients, contact RMH Director of Volunteers Julie Chrysler at 315-338-7134.
RMH’s RHCF named ‘Best Nursing Home’ Rome Memorial Hospital’s Residential Health Care Facility is among the 19% of U.S. skilled nursing facilities that have been recognized as a Best Nursing Home for 2019-20 by U.S. News & World Report. The home earned Best Nursing Homes status by achieving a rating of “high performing,” the highest possible rating, for short-term rehabilitation. U.S. News awards the designation of Best Nursing Home only to those homes that satisfy U.S. News’s assessment of the appropriate use of key services and consistent performance in quality measures. RMH provides short-term rehabilitation for individuals recovering from surgery, an illness or an accident to improve their function and strength so they can return home. Individualized treatment plans may include a combination of physical, occupational and speech-swallowing therapy, along with skilled nursing care. “It is a strong reflection of the clinical expertise and compassionate care that our dedicated employees provide on a daily basis,” said RHCF Administrator Anthony Joseph. Now in its 10th year, the U.S. News Best Nursing Homes ratings
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s d i K Corner
These sports most likely to send young athletes to ER
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f all sports, football sends the most U.S. males to the emergency room, while cheerleading and gymnastics most often do the same for women and girls, a new report finds. And, overall, U.S. emergency departments see about 2.7 million patients between the ages of 5 and 24 for sports-related injuries each year, according to a new report from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In some cases, these injuries might even be a gateway to opioid addiction: Opioid painkillers were given to ER patients suffering from a sports injury in about one in five cases, the study found. That number rose to nearly half (46%) among young adults aged 20 to 24. “As we have learned from the opioid crisis, many patients move from appropriately prescribed opioid medications to misuse of opioids,” noted physician Teresa Amato, who directs emergency medicine at Northwell Health’s Long Island Jewish Forest Hills, in Forest Hills, New York. She wasn’t involved in the new research. “I would encourage any parent with a child that has a sports-related injury who is being evaluated in an emergency department to have an open and frank discussion about pain control and if opioids are needed,” Amato said. “Of course, in some
December 2019 •
cases there will be a need for these medications, but the discussion prior to dispensing or prescribing opioids may prevent misuse later on.” The new analysis of 2010-2016 national data was conducted by the CDC’s National Center for Health Statistics. According to the report, football, basketball, cycling, soccer, ice/roller skating, and skateboarding are the leading causes of emergency department visits for sports injury for young Americans. Among males, just over 20% of these visits were due to a football-linked injury, while gymnastics and cheerleading accounted for the highest percentage among females (nearly 12%). In terms of where on the body the injuries occurred, kids aged 5 to 9 were more likely to have injuries to the arms and upper body than young adults aged 20 to 24, who were more likely to have lower-extremity injuries. Three-quarters of sports-related emergency visits for young patients needed scans, such as X-rays or CT scans, the report found. Opioid and non-opioid pain medications were given or prescribed at nearly two-thirds (64%) of visits. Non-opioid pain medication was given or prescribed nearly twice as often (41.4%) as opioid painkillers (22.5%), the CDC team found.
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Health News Continued from Page 19 and profiles offer comprehensive information about care, safety, health inspections, staffing and more for nearly all of the nation’s 15,000-plus nursing homes. In addition to the U.S. News honor, the New York State Nursing Home Quality Initiative has ranked the 80-bed skilled nursing facility in the top-20% of skilled nursing facilities for four consecutive years.
MVHS makes medical staff announcements Brittany Simone has joined the Mohawk Valley Health System Cancer Center as a radiation oncologist. Simone received her undergraduate education in biomedical engineering from Boston University in Boston, Massachusetts, and her medical school training at the Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine in New York. Simone completed a research fellowship and a residency program at Simone Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Simone is published in the areas of breast and prostate cancer as well as radiation-induced normal tissue toxicity. She has co-authored a chapter on the use of radiation therapy in the management of melanoma. Simone’s clinical and research interests include breast, prostate and gynecologic malignancies as well as the use of dietary interventions to augment standard cytotoxic therapies in both the preclinical and clinical setting. Stephanie Rice has also joined the MVHS Cancer Center as a radiation oncologist. Rice received her undergraduate education in nuclear medicine technology from the University of Wisconsin—La Rice Crosse and her medical school training at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health in Madison, Wisconsin. Rice completed residency training at the University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore, Maryland, where she served as chief resident. Rice is published in the areas of lung cancer, breast cancer, brain metastases, prostate cancer, vascular-related malignancies and proton therapy. Her clinical and research interests include head and neck cancer, sarcoma and gastrointestinal malignancies. Want to advertise? Call 315-749-7070! Page 20
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Helping to organize the Rome Twigs Tree of Lights 2019 reception and ceremony are, from left, Paul Taylor, president-CEO, AmCare Ambulance Service Inc.; Richard Van Atta, financial center manager for AmeriCU, Griffiss; Heather Willson, financial center manager for AmeriCU, Rome; Mike Manuele, assistant vice president of AmeriCU; Betsy McMahon, co-chairwoman of the Twigs Tree of Lights committee; and Sandy Morris, Twig general hospital committee chairwomen.
Rome Twigs feature Tree of Lights campaign
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he Rome Twigs Tree of Lights 2019 reception and ceremony will begin at 6:30 p.m. Dec. 8 in the Rome Memorial Hospital lobby. The tree-lighting ceremony begins at 7 p.m. AmCare Ambulance Service Inc. will be honored for the company’s many years of devoted service to the community and partnership with the hospital. A scroll displaying the names of donors and their honored
persons will be displayed at the event. AmeriCU Credit Union is the corporate sponsor of the Rome Twigs campaign. The company has donated $1,000 to the Twigs fundraiser for RMH. A visible symbol of the season, the Tree of Lights project began in 1989. Contributions to the Tree of Lights campaign help the Twigs, a nonprofit organization, continue its
MVHS Medical Group has new assistant VP
Upstate Services Group, Capstone Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Amsterdam, where she was responsible for organizational development and helped the organization to win the Agency for Health Care Administration/National Center for Assisted Living National Silver Quality Award. Zielinski earned a Master of Science degree in health care administration from Utica College and a Bachelor of Arts degree in human development from SUNY Oswego. She is also an active examiner in national Baldridge-based programs since 2016 and a member of the American Healthcare Executives.
Mary Zielinski was recently named assistant vice president of the Mohawk Valley Health System Medical Group. In this role, Zielinski will provide direction and leadership for medical group operations, including staffing and resource allocation. She will oversee project planning, process improvement and compliZielinski ance. She will also provide guidance, strategic business planning and development for the medical group. Zielinski previously held the position of regional administrator at Upstate Services Group in Albany, where she managed the operations of four skilled nursing facilities. Prior to that, she was an administrator for
MVHS names lab info systems manager Daniel Stewart has been named manager of laboratory information systems for Mohawk Valley Health System’s laboratory services. In this role, Stewart will provide leadership to the LIS team and manage the processes of all laboratory information software components for
IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • December 2019
long tradition of dedicated service in support of the hospital and its mission. All donations are tax deductible and all monies are used for the purchase of hospital equipment and to support programs of the hospital. In 2019 alone, the Twigs have donated nearly $56,000 worth of equipment to the hospital, all of which directly impacts patient care.
both the St. Elizabeth and St. Luke’s campuses. Stewart previously held the position of chief technical officer for a health technology solutions company in Florida. After working six years as a medical technologist, he moved into the role of LIS coordiStewart nator and became a software analyst. He has installed, trained, supported and developed software for the clinical laboratory environment for 27 years. Stewart earned a Bachelor of Science degree from University of Louisiana, Monroe in Monroe, Louisiana and also maintains a license as a medical laboratory technologist. Stewart is located at the St.
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Health News Continued from Page 20 Elizabeth Campus laboratory, 2209 Genesee St., Utica.
MVHS names director of clinical nutrition Stephanie Mobbs has been named director of clinical nutrition at Mohawk Valley Health System. In this role, Mobbs is responsible for directing the daily operations of nutrition programs for patients and residents in all areas of the organization, including acute care, acute Mobbs rehabilitation, sub-acute rehabilitation, long-term care, dialysis and outpatient specialty areas. Mobbs has served as the MVHS Rehabilitation and Nursing Center assistant director of clinical nutrition since October 2008. Prior to that role, she served as the assistant director of clinical nutrition at the St. Luke’s Campus. Mobbs earned her Bachelor of Science degree in nutritional sciences-dietetics from the University of Arizona in Tuscon, Arizona. Mobbs studied at Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester, and completed a dietetics internship at Cornell University in Ithaca. Mobbs is Servsafe-certified.
MVHS names human resources expert Tara Evans has been named human resources operations program manager for the Mohawk Valley Health System. Evans will provide leadership and ensure that human resources programs support the long-term goals of the organization. She will design, administer and oversee a range of analytical and project management functions Evans related to human resources management, employee engagement, performance management, organization and leadership development, education and the employee experience. Prior to taking this position, Evans was the education coordinator in the education department at MVHS where she planned, developed and facilitated educational programs, including general orientation, and administered the learning management system. She has been an employee of MVHS since 2005. Evans received her master’s degree in health care administration from Utica College.
Parking for Utica Comets games outlined With the changes going on in downtown Utica, notably the construction of the new Mohawk Valley Health System regional medical center, parking options for Utica Comets home games have been in question. The following locations offer parking during Comets’ games at the Adirondack Bank Center at the Utica Memorial Auditorium: — The Adirondack Bank Center at the Utica Memorial Auditorium has 550 public spaces for a $5 fee. — The Kennedy Parking Garage has 450 spaces, located at Columbia and Cornelia streets, for a $5 fee. — The Washington Street Parking Garage, located at 71 N. Genesee St., Utica, offers free parking. — There are 42 free spaces available in the city of Utica lot located on Broadway and Oriskany Street, across from the Utica City Court building. — There are also 185 parking spaces in “underused” lots next to the Compassion Coalition, 509 Lafayette St., Utica, and in the public spaces located on the Columbia side of the Brodock Press building, 502 Court St., Utica. Guests are asked not to park in the following locations: — Along or directly across from the concrete barriers around the medical center footprint, which includes the north side of Lafayette Street from Broadway to State Street and the south side of Columbia Street from Broadway to State Street. This is an active construction site. — Broadway, between Columbia and Lafayette streets — Enterprise (Rent-A-Car) lot — Labor Ready’s parking lot To learn more about the new regional medical center, visit mvhealthsystem.org/downtown-hospital. To receive updates regarding construction of the regional medical center, visit mvhealthsystem. org/construction.
Cancer Center offers DIBH technology The Mohawk Valley Health System Cancer Center offers a variety of highly advanced cancer treatment options for different forms and stages of cancer. From surgery to chemotherapy and radiation therapy, MVHS has the technology to treat cancer in the Mohawk Valley. The MVHS Cancer Center provides a multi-disciplinary approach to cancer care, offering a full-range of services including deep inspiration breath hold technology. DIBH permits the treatment of breast cancer while reducing the radiation dose to the heart. In the Mohawk Valley, it is only available at MVHS. All treatments are provided with personalized care for patients and their families. To learn more about the MVHS Cancer Center, visit mvhealthsystem. org/cancer or call 315-624-5300.
Celebrating the presentation of the Torch of Strength Award are, from left, Albert Pylinski, Liz Campbell, Dorothy Sperbeck-Cornnell, Theresa Swider, Dan Swider, and Allan Sperbeck-Cornnell.
America’s Greatest Heart Run & Walk Kickoff fundraising goal, Red Cap Ambassadors announced
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merica’s Greatest Heart Run & Walk is off and running! The American Heart Association hosted a kickoff to the Heart Run & Walk season recently at Daniele’s at Valley View. The event featured walkers, team coaches, survivors, sponsors, and volunteers. During the event, the AHA announced a fundraising goal of $1 million. Fundraising efforts for the Heart Run & Walk will be led by chairman Jeremy Robinson, senior vice president of customer-relations management at NYCM Insurance, the presenting sponsor of America’s Greatest Heart Run & Walk. “The American Heart Association has achieved incredible things, but heart disease and stroke are still our No. 1 and No. 5 killers,” respectively, Robinson said. “We still face unhealthy lifestyles and social determinants, like poverty and healthy food access, that make it difficult for some to get and stay healthy. Events like America’s Greatest Heart Run & Walk can help make our community healthier.” Other highlights for America’s Greatest Heart Run & Walk include the following: — The Healthy for Good Expo, will be held from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. March 6 at Utica College. Health and wellness assessment screenings sponsored by Mohawk Valley Health System will take place throughout the expo. Areas covered will include health-related material, free screenings and wellness information. — WIBX Heart Radiothon, sponsored by Slocum-Dickson Medical Group, P.L.L.C., will be broadcast on WIBX of Townsquare Media. The Heart Radiothon will be broadcast from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. March 6 and from 6 a.m. to 1 p.m.
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March 7 and streamed online at www.wibx950.com. — WKTV Heart Telethon, sponsored by Scalzo, Zogby & Wittig Inc., will be broadcast live by WKTV NewsChannel 2 and streamed online at www.wktv.com The telethon will be broadcast live from 7-8 p.m. March 6 on CBS Utica. Volunteers will be taking calls beginning at noon. The telethon will air from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. March 7 on WKTV NewsChannel 2. — The popular Kids Heart Challenge, sponsored by AmeriCU Credit Union, will be held after Heart Weekend. The challenge will be held at 5 p.m. April 17 at Accelerate Sports Complex. The event is an obstacle course for children aged 5-12. Registration will be available online and at Accelerate Sports that evening. The association also announced this year’s Red Cap survivor ambassadors. Red Cap ambassadors strive to educate and inform people of various cardiovascular diseases through their own personal and inspiring experiences. — Peter Corigliano — congenital heart defect survivor, Rome — Kie Cullings — congenital heart defect survivor, Taberg — Robert Miller — heart disease survivor, pacemaker recipient, New Hartford Another highlight of the evening was a special recognition for Team Victoria. Members of the team received the Nick Racanelli Torch of Strength Award from the AHA. The award recognizes a volunteer or staff person within the Founders Affiliate region who exemplifies a commitment to excellence and makes a significant impact on the AHA through leadership and a passion for the mission.
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By Jim Miller
How to create an ethical will Dear Savvy Senior,
Social anxiety can be debilitating Continued from Page 14 he has been in private clinical practice since 2003. “I would say the majority of people I see in my practice — both men and women — have some sort of anxiety issues that they are dealing with,” Nicotera said. “Men are less likely to talk about issues of anxiety that they are experiencing, so oftentimes it is difficult to have a more precise percentage of actual numbers, but I do see many men in my practice seeking help for social anxiety issues.” Nicotera further explains that men display anxiety issues differently than women. “For men dealing with anxiety, they often display anger more readily than women. I have seen this in many domestic violence situations. In either case, regardless if you’re a man or woman, social anxiety begins when someone stops doing something social that they have done before without a problem. For example, they start to avoid crowds, or they can’t be in certain situations where they are the center of attention. It can progress from there as they continue to avoid more and more social func-
tions and then become agoraphobic where a person can become a shut-in, so it can graduate over time.” Nicotera commented on the genesis of social anxiety. “It’s the old adage, nature versus nurture. Many people are pre-disposed to anxiety issues so there is a DNA marker,” he said. “Social anxiety can be rewarded through a negative reward system. For instance, I go into a crowded situation, and I leave because I don’t like it and decide never to do that again. So I avoid all crowds, and I just gave myself a negative reward.” “We are individuals that process things differently, that in return could cause someone to have social anxiety. For example, a person who was a witness of a violent act, or someone who has experienced a very bad divorce, could be triggered to develop social anxiety,” he said. “The good news is this: I believe prognosis is very good for these people. It’s very tangible, we identity it, and we work on it. We have innovative ways to work on recovery and healing, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, guided meditation, clinical hypnosis, and bio-chemical brain stimulation.”
Family support group focuses on addiction at Rome Memorial Hospital
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amilies who are dealing with the problems of addiction can find help and information at a support group meeting from 6-7 p.m. Dec. 16 in the second-floor classroom at Rome Memorial Hospital. The group meets the third Monday of each month and is free and open to everyone. Offered by the hospital’s Community Recovery Center, the support group provides an opportunity to discuss issues with others who are in the same situation. Certified by the New York
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State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services, the Community Recovery Center, 264 W. Dominick St., Rome, offers alcohol and substance abuse treatment for adolescents and adults. Open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday and Friday and from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday, the center participates with most major insurance programs, including Medicare and Medicaid. A sliding scale fee is available for self-pay clients. For more information, call 3344701.
Can you write a column on ethical wills and how to make one? The attorney that made up my will recently suggested I write one as a tool to explain the intentions of my will, as well as express my thoughts and feelings, but I don’t know where to start.
Interested Senior
Dear Interested, An ethical will — also referred to as a legacy letter — can be a valuable complement to your legal will, as well as a wonderful gift to your family or other loved ones. Here’s what you should know along with some tips to help you make one.
Ethical wills
Unlike a last will and testament, which tells your loved ones (and the legal world) what you want them to have, an ethical will (which is not a legal document) tells them what you want them to know. With an ethical will, you can share with your loved ones your feelings, wishes, regrets, gratitude and advice, as well as explain the elements in your legal will, give information about the money and possessions you’re passing on, and anything else you want to communicate. Usually no more than a few pages, the process of writing an ethical will can actually be quite satisfying. But be careful that you don’t contradict any aspects of your legal will or estate plan. And, if you’re having trouble with the writing, there are resources available to help you, or you can express yourself through an audio or video recording.
IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • December 2019
Where to start
To craft an ethical will, start by jotting down some notes about what’s really important to you and what you want your loved ones to know. Take your time and remember that you’re not trying to write for the Pulitzer Prize. This letter is a gift of yourself written for those you love. After you’ve gathered your thoughts you can start drafting your letter. You can also revise or rewrite it anytime you want. And for safekeeping, keep your ethical will with your other legal documents in a secure location but be sure your executor has access to it. A safe-deposit box or fireproof filing cabinet or safe in your home is a good choice. If you need some help, there are numerous resources available like Celebrations of Life (CelebrationsofLife.net), which offers how-to information and examples of ethical wills, along with a “Ethical Wills: Putting Your Values on Paper” book, and the Ethical Wills/Legacy Letters workbook that you can purchase for $16 and $10 respectively. Another good resource is Personal Legacy Advisors (PersonalLegacyAdvisors.com), a company that offers ethical will writing classes and workshops, along with personalized services like coaching, editing, writing and/or audio or video recording your ethical will. Prices will vary depending on the services you choose. They also sell a do-it-yourself guidebook “The Wealth of Your Life: A Step-by-Step Guide for Creating Your Ethical Will,” by Susan Turnbull for $24. Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior. org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book.
CALENDAR Health of in good
HEALTH EVENTS
Got a health-related activity or event that you would like publicized? Call Lou Sorendo at 315-749-7070 or email lou@cnymail.com.
Mondays
Dec. 4
Grandparents support group takes shape
Narcan training classes available
The Center for Family Life and Recovery, Inc., in partnership with the Parkway Center, will be providing a grandparents support group. The support group will be held from 2-3 p.m. Mondays at the Parkway Center, 220 Memorial Parkway, Utica. The group is open to grandparents who are raising children of loved ones who are experiencing active addiction, working on recovery, in residential-outpatient treatment, are hospitalized, incarcerated, or are dealing with other familial concerns. Those interested may contact CFLR’s Utica office at 315-733-1709 or the Parkway Center at 315-223-3973.
Food Addicts in Recovery to meet Food Addicts in Recovery holds an anonymous meeting from 6:308 p.m. Mondays at Trinity United Methodist Church, 8595 Westmoreland Road, Whitesboro. For more information, call Helen at 315-794-2314.
Tuesdays
Insight House offers family support group Insight House Chemical Dependency Services, Inc. is offering a family support group meeting from 6:15-7:30 p.m. Tuesdays at Insight House, 500 Whitesboro St., Utica. The group is free and open to anyone who is concerned about a loved one’s relationship with alcohol, opiates/heroin, or other substances. For more information about the group, call 724-5168, ext. 265, from 8:30-4 p.m. weekdays. All calls are strictly confidential.
Thursdays
Loved one on drugs? There is support CNY Services Milestones is featuring a support group for anyone dealing with another person’s drug or alcohol addiction. The support group meets at 6 p.m. Thursdays at 502 Court St., Suite 210, Utica. The support group is free and open to those struggling with a child, partner, wife, husband, mother, father or friend who is battling addiction. For more information, call Tony at 315-717-9153.
Story idea? Call 315-749-7070!
In response to the influx of overdoses in the local community, Insight House will be offering free community Narcan training classes on a twice-monthly basis. Classes will be held from 2-3 p.m. on the first and last Wednesday of every month at 500 Whitesboro St., Utica. The next sessions will take place on Dec. 4 and Dec. 25. Space is limited and preregistration is recommended by calling 315-724-5168 ext. 238.
Dec. 5
Support for those with chronic lung disease A support group is being offered for those living with a chronic lung disease like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, which includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis, pulmonary fibrosis or lung cancer. The next session is slated at 11 a.m. Dec. 5 at Valley Residential Services, 161 Valley Drive, Herkimer. The topic will be holiday stress management. Led by an American Lung Association-trained facilitator, participants will learn better ways to cope with their diagnosis and live life to the fullest with chronic lung disease during these free and regularly scheduled educational programs. To RSVP, call the pulmonary lab at Bassett Medical Center at 607-5473199.
Dec. 9
Support forum for patients, cancer survivors The Mohawk Valley Health System’s Cancer Center’s monthly support forum for patients and cancer survivors will be held at 6 p.m. Dec. 9. The cancer support forum meets at 6 p.m. on the second Monday of every month in the Cancer Center’s fireplace lounge on the main floor of Faxton Campus, 1676 Sunset Ave., Utica. The forum, led by the Cancer Center’s social worker, offers support to anyone who has received a cancer diagnosis. Light refreshments will be served. For more information or to RSVP, call 315-624-5241.
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7:30 p.m. Dec. 9 at Rome Memorial Hospital’s second-floor classroom. The group meets on the second Monday of every month. RMH is located at 1500 N. James St., Rome. For more information, call Deb Dunn at 315-533-6467 or email RomeNY@JoeNiekroFoundation.org.
Dec. 12
Laryngectomy support group to meet The Laryngectomy Support Group will hold its monthly meeting at noon Dec. 12 in the Sister Regina Conference Room on the first floor of the St. Elizabeth Medical Center hospital building, 2209 Genesee St., Utica. The support group is sponsored by SEMC. Laryngectomy support group meetings are held at noon on the second Thursday of each month. A laryngectomy is the procedure to remove a person’s larynx and separates the airway from the mouth, nose and esophagus. The laryngectomee breathes through an opening in the neck, called a stoma. The public is welcome to attend. Those with questions can call the speech therapy department at 315801-4475.
Dec. 13
Breastfeeding Café opens at Rome Memorial The Mohawk Valley Breastfeeding Network, in partnership with Rome Memorial Hospital, has opened a new Breastfeeding Café to provide pregnant and breastfeeding
moms and their families a place to support one another, socialize and get breastfeeding clinical support if needed. The group meets from noon to 2 p.m. on the second and fourth Fridays of the month at Rome Memorial Hospital, fourth floor, 1500 N. James St. The next meetings will be on Dec. 13 and Dec. 27. There is no cost to participate and mothers can bring their babies to be weighed at the hospital’s “Weighto-Go” station. Snacks will be provided. Dads and grandparents are welcome. For more information, contact Laurie Hoke in RMH’s maternity department at 315-338-7291. You can find meeting announcements on Breastfeeding Café and Rome Memorial Hospital Facebook pages.
Dec. 18
Valley Health Services accepts syringes Valley Health Services is accepting the community’s medical waste of needles, syringes and lancets from noon until 2 p.m. on Nov. 20. The service is available on the third Wednesday of every month. The waste must be in approved puncture-resistant containers available at local pharmacies and properly marked “biohazard.” The containers may be brought to the outpatient receptionist on the ground floor at VHS, who will contact the personnel responsible for medical waste disposal. VHS is located at 690 W. German St., Herkimer. Questions may be directed to Tammi King, infection control nurse, at 866-3330, ext. 2308.
Support group to meet at Rome Memorial Hospital The brain aneurysm, AVM (arteriovenous malformation) and stroke support group will meet from 5:30December 2019 •
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Up in smoke Vaping considered dangerous to health By Barbara Pierce
T
een vaping is an emergency — a public health emergency. Vaping involves the use of an e-cigarette (electronic cigarette). E-cigarettes are now the most commonly used tobacco product for teens. It’s the new trend. When e-cigarettes first hit the market in late 2000, they were believed to be a safer, harmless alternative to cigarettes. However, they are not safe or harmless. They are dangerous. Kids are dying. Vaping, it turns out, is deadly. It’s also addictive. Vaping with a Juul is what most teens prefer. It’s wildly popular, looks like a USB flash drive, and comes in attractive flavors like bubble gum, mango and mint. Vape use in high school students rose by 900% in a recent four-year period, according to the U.S. Surgeon General. Strategic, deliberate, effective marketing to teens by companies that sell e-cigarettes has been hugely successful. E-cigarettes often contain nicotine and sometimes contain marijuana. And they can contain dozens of
other harmful chemical ingredients and flavorings whose long-term health effects are unknown. “Kids don’t know what’s in e-cigarettes. They have no idea of what they’re putting into their bodies,” said Melisa Snyder, director of prevention for Catholic Charities of Herkimer County. “And they get addicted pretty quickly,” she added. “It takes only a few times using to become addicted.” Some of the dangers of e-cigarettes include serious lung injury and disease, which causes lasting disability, and even death. Symptoms of the illness include pressure or tightness in the chest, shortness of breath and difficulty breathing that becomes progressively worse. Some have experienced fever, weight loss, nausea, fatigue and diarrhea. Imaging tests of the patients’ lungs have all revealed abnormalities. “Also, there is a high concentration of nicotine in e-cigarettes,” said Snyder. Nicotine causes lasting adverse effects on brain development.
Nicotine is addictive and sets kids up for a lifetime of addiction. “Parents aren’t aware of how addicting it is,” said Snyder. Some e-cigarettes have marijuana, which also causes permanent damage to a developing brain, affecting attention, memory, coordination, judgment, and decision-making. There is a potential link between the use of e-cigarettes and serious neurological symptoms, including seizures, fainting and tremors. “Parents aren’t aware of how bad this is,” said Snyder. “This isn’t just ‘kids being kids,’ trying new things. This has serious harmful effects. As with anything with teens, parents need to be vigilant.” Parents need to know what to look for. The most popular type of e-cigarettes with teens is the sleek and discrete Juul. “It looks like modern technology; it looks like a flash drive,” explained Snyder. “It’s very easy to get, and very easy to conceal.” Because of the Juul’s sleek design, it’s easily hidden and hard
for parents to find. The smell rapidly goes away. The scent is faint, but you may catch a whiff of flavoring like bubble gum or chocolate cake. “If they mention that their friends are vaping, that’s a concern,” added Snyder. “Keep an eye on them — if their friends are doing it, they probably are too.” “Also, keep an eye out for changes in behavior or appearance,” added Snyder. Other signs include decreased use of caffeine and a smoker’s-like cough. “And there’s lots of promotion of vaping products,” she added. “If they have these products, that’s a huge red flag.” If your child has hats or T-shirts branded with the name of e-cigarettes, it’s time to have the talk. The best approach to avoiding teen vape use is to educate your kids when they’re young, before they’ve been exposed to or offered a vape. Vape use is even rising among middle-schoolers, and is present even in elementary schools. So, the earlier you have these conversations, the better. Help your children understand the facts about what people inhale when they use vaping devices, including all kinds of unknown chemicals that can be very harmful. Keep the lines of communication open by asking your kids what they’re seeing at school and how they feel about it. If you’ve found a vaping device of your child’s or caught them vaping, the best course of action is to stay calm rather than shame your child. You can’t make them stop.
TRUSTED FOR 80 YEARS
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IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • December 2019