In Good Health by In Good Health: MV's Healthcare Newspaper

in good Hunker down for a long cold, flu season Story, Page 3

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Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

February 2013 • Issue 84

Online Dating

Is it safe for seniors? Check out Page 5

Teen Suicide

Heart to heart Story, Page 13

IGH series kicks off See Page 12

Zapped?

Story, Page 9 Get ‘In Good Health’ at home. See coupon inside

Special Golden Years Edition • The art of caretaking: See Page 8 • Know your way around Social Security: See Page 8 February 2013 •

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

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HEALTH EVENTS

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IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • February 2013

Mohawk Valley Perinatal Network, Inc., is available to help with health insurance needs. It can aid in finding affordable health insurance, health care and medication, as well as dealing with unpaid medical bills. Staff can help in applying and recertifying for Child Health Plus, Family Health Plus and Medicaid. Visit MVPN at the following locations: • Mohawk Valley Perinatal Network, Utica: Every weekday, Tuesday evenings • Addictions Crisis Center, Utica: As requested • Utica Community Health Center: As requested • Human Technologies Corporation, Utica: As requested • Mohawk Valley Community Action Agency offices in Rome, Ilion and Herkimer: As requested • Oneida Northside Medical Building: Every Tuesday • Mary Rose Center, Oneida: Every Wednesday evening • Waterville Town Hall: Every Monday • Community Action Partnership of Madison County, Morrisville: Every Monday • Community Action Partnership of Madison County, Canastota: Every Thursday To make an appointment, call 315732-4657 or 1-877-267-6193 toll free.

mous buttermilk pancakes on National Pancake Day, Feb. 5. The area’s IHOP, located at 535 French Road, New Hartford, participates in National Pancake Day each year to raise awareness and funds for the local Children’s Miracle Network Hospital at Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare in Utica. Proceeds from National Pancake Day support women’s and children’s services at FSLH. CMN-generated funds are used for equipment acquisition, health education for patients, parents and staff, and the services of specialists at the hospital.

Feb. 5

Smokers: Time to make ‘Fresh Start’ The Tri-County Quits Tobacco Cessation Program is offering a three-part “Fresh Start” class to help participants stop smoking. The Fresh Start program is a groupbased tobacco cessation support program offered by the American Cancer Society. Classes will be held at 6:30 p.m. Feb. 5, 12 and 19 at the Regional Cancer Center at Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare, 1676 Sunset Ave., Utica. The Fresh Start program is designed to help individuals quit smoking by providing essential information, skills for coping with cravings and group support. For more information or to register, call 315-624-5639.

Feb. 6

Having a baby? Time to 15 hours of free ﬂapjacks at prepare Parents-to-be can learn about IHOP childbirth, newborns and other related Feb. 5

For the eighth consecutive year, IHOP restaurants nationwide will offer each guest a free short stack of their fa-

topics by attending the upcoming Baby Care Basics program from 7-9 p.m. Feb. 6 at Rome Memorial Hospital in the classroom. Sandy Graichen, a maternity nurse at the hospital who has many years of experience in labor and delivery, will teach the free educational program. No advance registration is required. Refreshments will be served. Participants are asked to meet the instructor in the hospital lobby, North James Street entrance. For more information, call 3387143.

Feb. 7

St. E’s College of Nursing open house set St. Elizabeth College of Nursing in Utica will hold an open house at 6 p.m. Feb. 7 in the multipurpose room at the college.

Continued on Page 16

Flu Fighters Influenza: dispelling myths, improving prevention Kristen Raab

ith over 1,500 reported cases of flu in Oneida County by late January, the region has already shattered last year’s total of less than 400 reported cases. In the Mohawk Valley, where the season generally runs from October through April, this could be a record season. In December, Oneida County had the highest incidence of flu cases in New York state. The Oneida County Health Department first started tracking the outbreak last fall. By Nov. 23, the number of flu cases had quadrupled to 562 and there were as many as 70 to 80 new cases a day. “To put this in perspective, the entire 20112012 flu season saw a total of 329 Bogan confirmed cases reported to the health department,” said Patrice Bogan, the county’s interim director of health. As of Jan. 22, Oneida County had 1,591 confirmed cases of flu. “That number has only increased by four or five cases a day for the past three weeks,” said Ken Fanelli, public information officer for the health department. “This does not necessarily indicate that the flu has peaked in the county. Patients visiting emergency rooms and urgent care facilities are not being tested as they were earlier in the season. Most doctors are making their diagnosis and basing treatment on the patients’ symptoms,” Fanelli said.

Put up a fight

Vaccination and proper hygiene can help diminish the spread of the flu. The outbreak of flu began early this season, but as it can last through March, it is important to know the best ways to prevent the flu. Heidi VanDerhoof Coluzza said every individual aged six months and

older, who is eligible, should get vaccinated against influenza on an annual basis. Coluzza is the director of infection prevention at St. Elizabeth Medical Center in Utica. “I would encourage anyone who has not been vaccinated against influenza to do so as soon as you are able,” Coluzza said. “There is the potential for us to see another Coluzza outbreak, perhaps a different strain of influenza, in the next few months.” Next year, try to get vaccinated early, she advises. Coluzza said it is possible to get the vaccine by mid-September. “Individuals should make it a priority to get vaccinated as soon as possible,” she noted. “It is so important be vaccinated early because it takes approximately 14 days following the vaccination for individuals to form immunity to influenza.” During those two weeks, it is possible to contract the flu. There is no need to worry that the flu shot will actually make you sick. This is a common myth that deters some people from getting the vaccine that could protect them and others from the flu. The inactivated vaccination “is manufactured from dead virus not live virus, therefore it cannot make you sick,” Coluzza explains.

Myth busting

Another myth is cold weather actually makes people sick. On the other hand, it is our behavior during the colder months that makes a difference, Coluzza said. “Being in close proximity with other individuals who are ill definitely increases the risk of illness to others,” she said. “We are often stuck inside around people who may not even know they have the virus.” In addition to being vaccinated, individuals should maintain a healthy lifestyle. “Eating nutritiously, drinking

plenty of fluids, exercising regularly, and getting plenty of rest” are all ways to improve our chances of avoiding illness, she said. Nourishing our bodies is only one part of the prevention plan. Coluzza also emphasizes the importance of engaging in good hygiene practices such as frequent hand washing, thorough cleaning of frequently touched environmental surfaces (door handles, light switches, faucet knobs, refrigerator doors, telephones, etc), and to cover a cough and sneeze with a tissue or the bend of your arm. “If more adults did this, and then passed the behavior on to their children, the spread of illness could diminish,” Coluzza said. Lately, there has been a good deal of debate about taking vitamins. Will they help you prevent illness? “While eating a well-balanced diet generally provides individuals with the vitamins necessary to stay well, some people have medical conditions that make them deficient in certain vitamins and supplements,” she said. She cautions that incorporating vitamins into your life should be a decision made after consultation with your health care provider.

Cold or the flu?

How can you determine if you have the flu or if you are suffering with a cold? People can usually tell what they are suffering from by the severity of the symptoms. “With influenza you tend to be much sicker and the onset of the symptoms tend to be very rapid,” Coluzza said. Also, “it is rare to have an individual with a cold have a fever, headache, or severe body aches that are commonly reported with influenza,” she added. Once an individual becomes sick, it is important to rest, and to take pain relievers for aches and fever. Also, drink plenty of fluids to decrease the risk of dehydration and to loosen congestion. Coluzza stresses the importance of washing your hands, as this will help prevent the spread to those around you. In addition, Coluzza recommends staying out of work or school “until you are free of symptoms for at least 24 hours.” This is best for the sick person and anyone who would come into contact with him or her. Influenza is a serious illness that can even lead to death, especially among young children, the elderly or anyone with a compromised immune system.

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ONEIDA, HERKIMER, MADISON AND OTSEGO COUNTIES in good A monthly newspaper published by

Health MV’s Healthcare Newspaper

Local News, Inc. Distribution: 20,000 copies. To request home delivery ($15 per year), call 315-749-7070.

In Good Health is published 12 times a year by Local News, Inc. © 2013 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: Patricia Malin, Barbara Pierce, Kristen Raab, Malissa Allen, Mary Stevenson, Deb Dittner Advertising: Jennifer Wise Layout & Design: Chris Crocker Ofﬁce Manager: Laura Beckwith

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.

February 2013 •

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

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Excellus awards counseling services grant

he Samaritan Counseling Center will expand outpatient mental health counseling services in Herkimer Country thanks to a $3,500 community health award from Excellus BlueCross BlueShield. The Samaritan Counseling Center provides nonprofit outpatient mental health services for children and adults in the Mohawk Valley, with offices in Utica, Rome and Hamilton. Recognizing a gap in mental health services in Herkimer County and eastern Oneida County, the center recently secured donated space to open a satellite office at the Oak Ridge Free Methodist Church on West German Street in Herkimer. The grant will help offset the out-of-pocket costs of mental health services for individuals without insurance and those with limited benefits. The grant will allow the center to provide more than 230 hours of counseling to individuals who would likely go without treatment. “Support from Excellus BlueCross BlueShield and Oak Ridge Free Methodist Church shows how our community comes together when there is a need,” said Greg Kovacs, executive director of the Samaritan Counseling Center. “This support allows us to fill a critical gap in the provision of mental health services in Herkimer County.” “Improving access to high-quality health care is a fundamental part of our mission as a nonprofit health plan,” said Eve Van de Wal, regional president for Excellus BlueCross BlueShield. “Helping the Samaritan Counseling Center expand counseling services in our community was a natural fit for us.” Community health awards were created in 2000 as a way to support targeted health and wellness organizations and programs within Excellus BlueCross BlueShield’s 11-county Utica region. Since that time, Excellus BlueCross BlueShield has distributed more than 300 awards totaling nearly $760,000.

There is support for bereaved parents

ospice & Palliative Care in New Hartford offers a bereaved parents support group for any parent who has suffered the loss of a child. Those who have lost a child know their grief is a lifelong journey. This group addresses the issues and challenges bereaved parents face. Grandparents are welcome to attend. The group meets from 6:30-8 p.m. the second Tuesday of each month at Hospice & Palliative Care, 4277 Middle Settlement Road, New Hartford. Call Linda Clark at 735-6487 ext. 261 to register or for more information. Pre-registration is required. There is no charge for bereavement groups or workshops. Donations are always appreciated. Page 4

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Meet

Your Doctor

By Lou Sorendo

Dr. Mark Winther Mark Winther, an emergency medicine physician at Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown, was recently named director of emergency services at Little Falls Hospital. Recently, Mohawk Valley In Good Health Associate Editor Lou Sorendo interviewed Winther regarding his career and perspective on healthcare. Q.: Why did you choose emergency medicine as a specialty? What is it about the specialty that interests you the most? A.: I was immediately drawn to the fast pace of emergency medicine. I enjoyed the challenge of creating a differential diagnosis based on the history and physical. Q.: What do you find most challenging about emergency medicine? A.: In the emergency department, we pride ourselves on being the “safety net” of the healthcare system—our doors are always open, regardless of who walks in. We don’t want to say “no” or “we can’t handle that here” and as a result, in our current health care system we are fast becoming overwhelmed in both volume and acuity of patients. Q.: What skill sets are necessary for a doctor to master emergency medicine? What does it take to be an effective specialist in emergency medicine? A.: Efficient and skilled at reading people. We usually are meeting the patient for the first time and have to efficiently wade through his or her chief complaint and medical history to evaluate for a life- or limb-threatening illness. This occurs while always being prepared to take care of the next sick patient. Q.: What is the most fulfilling aspect of being an emergency medicine doctor? A.: Being the jack-of-all-trades, but expert of none. We need to know enough about all areas of medicine to recognize the near immediate to emergent conditions. In any given day I could reassure a 2-year-old who needs stitches, deliver a baby, or treat an acute heart attack. We usually have a few balls in the air at any given time. Q.: Are graduates from medical school choosing emergency medicine as a specialty? How popular is it among graduating medical students? A.: Emergency medicine has grown in popularity. I am biased; I think it’s the greatest career in medicine. It affords a comfortable lifestyle with a flexible schedule. It is a very popular area of medicine for women. Q.: Why did you choose Little Falls Hospital as a place to practice? What do you enjoy about the area? A.: I was very anxious when I first started at Little Falls Hospital. I did my emergency medicine residency at Albany Medical Center, a large university hospital with most services available. We saw a wide variety of ailments and conditions and with very few ex-

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • February 2013

ceptions had a specialist on staff to evaluate and treat them all. Little Falls Hospital is a critical access hospital, and as such it has less services immedi-

ately available. In addition, many times there is only one provider working. Not having as much back up was stressful to think about. I quickly realized that at “this” time and place I am the patient’s best option and I need to do my absolute best to help them. What scared me initially enticed me to make it my place of work. Q.: What are some of the more common illnesses, ailments or injuries you encounter as a specialist in emergency medicine? A.: Fevers and colds; minor trauma such as wrist and ankle injuries or lacerations; flu and respiratory illnesses in the winter; complications from common chronic conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure. Q.: What do you see as some of the more challenging aspects of delivering healthcare in the Mohawk Valley? A.: Healthcare costs are rising and the current reimbursement model is not sustainable. I fear degradation in care as a result of cost cutting. We have to deliver better healthcare while at the same time reducing cost. It is a very big challenge. Q.: How did being an emergency medical technician help you in your current role? A.: It introduced me to emergency care as well as giving me a respect for emergency services. They are among the most dedicated personnel in medicine. Q.: What do you see as some of the more significant health threats to Americans today? Do you think people

Continued on Page 14

Lifelines Birth date: Oct. 29, 1978 Birthplace: Bernardsville, N.J. Current residence: Richfield Springs Education: Cobleskill and Siena for undergrad, University of Buffalo for medical school and Albany Medical Center for residency Affiliations: American College of Emergency Physicians Personal: Married to Marisa Rahn Winther, a Utica native; father of two children, Alaina, 4, and Aidan 2, with a third due in March. Hobbies: Zymurgy (beer, wine, cider making); working out/ exercising: competitive events such as the Boilermaker, Tough Mudder, will be running the Boston Marathon in April

Golden Years

Dangers of online dating Caution needed with online dating for seniors By Barbara Pierce The #1 way most people in the United States meet their partner is through friends. The second-most popular way is through online dating, according to scientists at the University of Rochester. “More than half of the weddings I perform are for people who met online,” said Unitarian Universalist Minister Amy Kindred in Punta Gorda, Fla. The fastest-growing group of online daters is persons over 55. Much of the stigma is gone. It has become an acceptable, easy, and effective way to meet prospective partners. “Meeting people online is huge,” said our FBI source, an agent who covers the Capital District of New York and wished to remain anonymous. “But you don’t know who you are meeting. You’ll never fully know, even on some of the best online dating sites. It’s unfortunate, but people misrepresent themselves all the time.” Seniors who date online are vulnerable to becoming victims of crime. Horror stories circulate. One older woman was flattered and wooed online by a much younger man who began asking her to send him money. When the amounts he asked for increased, she finally became suspicious and reported him. Another exchanged emails with a man her age. He was very eager for them to meet. Though he was only a two-hour drive from her, he asked to come and stay at her house so they could meet. As he quickly lost interest in her when she said no, she figured he probably needed a place to live. Fraud and financial exploitation are not the only potential crime online senior daters need to be wary of. There are reports of sexual assaults. “I was slimed,” is how one woman described her online experience. After exchanging several friendly emails, the man in whom she was interested suggested they do a video chat. “I was shocked when he wanted to get

involved in sexual behavior online,” she said. Another woman met her date for an initial meeting that went very well. She agreed that he could pick her up at her home for their next date. He arrived, asked to use the bathroom, came out naked and assaulted her. The dating sites do attempt to protect users from these experiences. Many run users through the sexual registry database. Though this screens out many undesirable persons, it is still very, very necessary for the user to use caution. Twenty percent of online daters who were background checked were found to have a criminal background. One out of four! One out of four persons on whom someone asked for a background check on had a criminal background. Those are high odds. Those are odds that should make one proceed with extreme caution. On MyMatchChecker.com, two retired law enforcement officers help online daters protect themselves by doing background checks. They found the one out of four statistic in those they checked.

The retired officers on MyMatchChecker.com state that running applicants through the sex offender registry is not a comprehensive stop-gap to the perils of online dating for two reasons: 90 percent of sex offender cases are plea bargained and do not result in the offender having to register with the national database. Also, the sexual registry database does not provide information about other forms of criminal activity that are common to online predators, including sexual violence, domestic abuse, fraud, theft, aggravated assault, etc.

Some useful advice

Tips from our source at the FBI and MyMatchChecker.com:

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Hold the diet soda?

ew research suggests that drinking sweetened beverages, especially diet drinks, is associated with an increased risk of depression in adults while drinking coffee was tied to a slightly lower risk. The study was released in January and will be presented at the American Academy of Neurology’s 65th annual meeting in San Diego, March 16 to 23. “Sweetened beverages, coffee and tea are commonly consumed worldwide and have important physical — and may have important mental health consequences,” said study author Honglei Chen, a physician with the National Institutes of Health in Research Triangle Park in North Carolina and a member of the American Acad-

emy of Neurology. The study involved 263,925 people between the ages of 50 and 71 at enrollment. From 1995 to 1996, consumption of drinks such as soda, tea, fruit punch and coffee was evaluated. About 10 years later, researchers asked the participants whether they had been diagnosed with depression since the year 2000. People who drank more than four cans or cups per day of soda were 30 percent more likely to develop depression than those who drank no soda. Those who drank four cans of fruit punch per day were about 38 percent more likely to develop depression than those who did not drink sweetened drinks.

• “Always, always meet in a public place, with other people around,” pleads the FBI agent. And let a family member or friend know where you are going on the first date, adds MyMatchChecker. Make the first meeting time limited, lunch or coffee, not dinner. • “Don’t ever give out your home address. Don’t even give out your home phone,” says the FBI agent. “Through your home phone, they can find your address.” Or, you could become the victim of a phone stalker, who calls repeatedly. The agent suggests you not even use your email address until you know the person better. • “Definitely don’t give out any personal information, like your birth date or your Social Security number,” advises the agent. • Proceed slowly and listen to your instinct, advise all the experts. If the other person pressures you, take things at your pace. Pressure is a big red flag. • Don’t spend too much time texting and e-mailing before the first date; it builds false chemistry. • Expect to be treated with courtesy and respect • Pay close attention to your drink and do not leave it while you run to the restroom. Examine the clarity of what you are drinking and if it seems to have clouded up, ask for another. • Run a background check on the person, concludes MyMatchChecker. com. You want to make sure the person is not married, a sexual predator, a wanted felon, a domestic violence abuser, or worse. MyMatchChecker was created to help daters be safer. • Related column, see Page 6.

Adirondack Kurt Foxton, M.D. Michelle Johnston, M.D. Lorina Aiello, N.P. Welcoming Lisa Holmes, NP 110 Lomond Court, Utica (315) 292-1264

February 2013 •

Pain Management Accepting New Patients

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

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Golden Years Between You and Me

By Barbara Pierce

Online dating: Beware! Be ready! Be well informed before jumping into new social craze

n just a few weeks, I’ve had a steep learning curve on online dating. Online dating is huge, especially for seniors. My friend, Carol, 72, is head over heels in love with a man she met online. So, after 20 years of not dating, I thrust myself back into the dating world. Back when I last dated, you got dressed up and went out there. Out to the singles dances, the church singles groups, the seminars for singles. Each was a crapshoot. Maybe you met someone who you wanted to see again, maybe not. If not, the next night you dressed up again and went out. Pierce Now I can sit at my laptop and I search through volumes of men. In an hour, I can sort through hundreds, looking at their photos, reading what they say about themselves, and select potentials that I might want to meet. I quickly screen out those who don’t look like my kind of man, those who are much shorter or much younger than I, those who are looking for a woman who shares their passion for biking, boating, religion, dancing, or golf. And he can screen me out if I don’t look like his kind of woman, or he doesn’t like my lifestyle or my dog. There are many dating sites, most charge. I chose one that was identified as the biggest database for seniors. But it didn’t have many men in my area. A friend recommended another that has worked much better for me and is free www.PlentyofFish.com. One of the first things I learned was not to be so quick to jump in my

car and travel to meet him halfway. I wasted too much time and too much gas on the Interstate going to meet men who turned out to be duds. And if we had hit it off, long distance dating would mean way more driving than I want to do. And I’ve become more selective in noticing his intentions. I want a longterm committed relationship. If he says he is only looking for someone to date or be friends with, I will be ultimately disappointed. Better to rule him out before the beginning. I’ve met several men for coffee. An hour may not be enough time to tell if you have met your soul mate, but it is enough to tell when you have not. There is that elusive thing called “chemistry.” No picture or words online, no voice on the phone—nothing but an in-the-flesh meeting can predict who we will have chemistry with. And chemistry is the ingredient that makes relationships work. I’ve had good chemistry with a few of the men I met, and we’ll keep seeing each other. The others were nice, reasonably OK, but didn’t stir my interest to get to know them better.

Helpful online hints

If you’re thinking of getting your feet wet in online dating, here are some things I’ve learned that may be helpful: • Before you sign up, have a good current digital headshot of yourself, maybe two or three. Make sure it’s a good photo, as no one will read further if your photo doesn’t piqué his or her interest. • Have a positive emotion on your face; look approachable. If you have to

take a picture of yourself in the mirror, you need more people in your life— make that your first priority. If you misrepresent yourself with an outdated photo, whomever you meet wants to meet the person in that photo and will be angry at you and disappointed if you are different. • Be prepared with a user name, as this will be the second-most important thing about you that people notice. Advertise some quality about yourself or something that is important to you, like “Funtobewith,” “Woodstock,” “BeachBum,” “Oneofakind,” or just your first name. • Be prepared to list the things that interest you, so that you and potential partners can find some common ground. Hobbies, music, how you spend your time, what’s important to you. • Be prepared to describe yourself

and what you are looking for in a partner. You can always go back and edit this information, so don’t let that hold you up. If you’re stuck, ask a friend how they would describe you. What I also learned is to beware. Proceed with caution on any online dating site (See related story, page 5). Be skeptical, as online daters are easy prey. Move slowly, with caution. But be ready to drop your caution and know when to move ahead. • Barbara Pierce is a retired licensed clinical social worker with many years’ experience in helping people. If you would like to purchase a copy of her book “If I’m so Fantastic, Why am I Still Single?” contact her at BarbaraPierce06@yahoo.com, or contact her if you have any concerns you would like her to address.

Excellus BCBS doctor to help transform nation’s end-of-life care

he Institute of Medicine has selected an Excellus BlueCross BlueShield physician to serve on a committee of national experts charged with helping to transform the nation’s end-of-life care. Patricia Bomba, vice president and medical director, geriatrics, Excellus BCBS, will serve on the Institute of Medicine’s Committee on Transforming End-of-Life Care. Bomba is a nationally recognized palliative care and end-of-life expert who designs and oversees the implementation of community projects throughout New York state. At ExcelPage 6

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lus BCBS, Bomba serves as a geriatric consultant on projects and programs affecting seniors. “New York state is ahead of the curve when it comes to ensuring patients’ wishes are honored at the end of life,” Bomba said. “I hope to parlay the successes of New York state into a new national standard that empowers patients, Bomba their families and

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • February 2013

physicians to make and share sound decisions.” Bomba was the driving force behind a 2008 New York state Medical Orders for Life Sustaining Treatment law that helped to ensure that a person’s end-of-life wishes were followed, whether the person was at home, in a nursing home or in any other non-hospital setting. Bomba earned a bachelor’s degree from Immaculata College in Pennsylvania and graduated from the University of Virginia School of Medicine. She completed her residency in internal medicine at the University of Rochester and is board certified in internal

medicine. Bomba serves as New York’s representative on the National POLST (Physician Orders for Life Sustaining Treatment) paradigm task force and chairs New York’s MOLST statewide implementation team. The Institute of Medicine is an independent, nonprofit organization that works outside of government to provide unbiased and authoritative advice to decision-makers and the public. The Committee on Transforming End-of-Life Care will conduct a consensus study that will produce a technical report on ways to advance end-of-life care, among many others goals.

Golden Years

Do You Have Diabetic Retinopathy, Glaucoma or Macular Degeneration?

Do not disturb Couple lives alone on an island for decades By Barbara Pierce For nearly 40 years, Art and Nan Kellam lived alone on an otherwise uninhabited island off the coast of Maine. Lived with no electricity or running water. Survived the brutal winters of Northeastern Maine. Endured as they rowed their small dory two miles through open waters to reach the nearest store. Though they lived with hardship and austerity, the Kellams did not just endure. They thrived, individually and as a couple. Their relationship flourished. They happily lived their dream. Author Peter P. Blanchard retells this remarkable story in the recently released book, “We Were an Island.” “This is a love story on many levels,” Blanchard explained. A story of their love for each other, their love for the island, and the love they had for their lifestyle. “Their dream was for a simple life that would lead to peace. And that is precisely what they had on the island,” said Blanchard. “In moving there, they were running toward something, not running away from anything. This is hard for people to fathom.” From the time of their marriage, the Kellams longed for a place to live simply. In steadfast pursuit of a dream, they searched along the West Coast, then the East Coast. They discovered their dream in the 550-acre Placentia Island, forested, with abandoned pastures, two miles south of Mount Desert Island. In 1949, they sold their home in California to settle in on their island, and built their home there.

Living off the land

The Kellams lived on the island, year around, for nearly 40 years. They were not wealthy; they lived off the land as much as possible. They loved the land intensely and protected it

from development. After their deaths, they left the island to the Maine Nature Conservancy to insure that the island they loved would continue in its natural state. “They were not the pure, back-tonature folks; they were more middle American,” said Blanchard. “They were interested in nature, but didn’t know terribly much about it.” Prior to their move to the island, Art was an aviation engineer. After Art’s death, Nan lived there alone. Blanchard, a volunteer for the Nature Conservancy, met Nan in 1987. He laughed as he recalled that first meeting. He brought her strawberry ice cream. As he entered her home, he tripped, spilling the melted pink ice cream all over her and her home. Later, he read her journal entry about that day: “I’ll do anything to get him off this island!” she had exclaimed. Despite this beginning, they became friends. On her death, Nan left her daily journals, the manuscript of the unfinished book the Kellams were writing about their adventure, and their letters, to Blanchard. From these sources, and his friendship with Nan, he wrote their extraordinary story. “Their relationship was magical,” Blanchard said. “They had a playful relationship, a special language.”

island. Blanchard added: “The theme of Nan’s journal during this time was, ‘This is really great. We’re pulling up the drawbridge. The island is at last our own.’” Placentia Island is now a nature preserve. “It is a beautiful, spruce covered place,” said Blanchard. The stone walls constructed by the Kellams are still in place, and there is the road they constructed that easily led them from the shore to their cabin. However, the winds and storms have downed many trees, making the road impassable. And only the foundation of the home they lived in stands. “It’s as if nature is saying this chapter is closed,” concluded Blanchard. The story is also a ghost story, said Blanchard. Even though Art died, his presence was still with Nan as she lived alone on the island. “He manifested himself through animals. If Nan didn’t see a deer or a white sparrow, her journal entry would say, ‘He’s not sending me a message today.’” One important message from this book: “You really can follow your dream,” concluded Blanchard. “We Were an Island” is available at www.Amazon.com.

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All the usual distractions were gone. They read many books, read aloud to each other, listened to classic music on the radio. “Overall, they had an amazing rapport,” commented Blanchard. Every morning, Art made tea and toast for Nan. He climbed the rustic stairs in their island home to serve it to her in bed. The Kellams appreciated their separation from others. When the winter snows came, no visitors would be able to come to their

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Page 7

The Social Ask Security Ofﬁce

Mary in the Middle

Do unto others …

Column provided by the local Social Security Office

New to electronic payments? Here’s the scoop

eginning March 1, with few exceptions, all federal benefits, including Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits, are to be paid electronically. For years, Social Security has stressed the convenience, security, and safety of getting benefit payments electronically, offering peace of mind that your payment will arrive on time, even in the event of natural disasters or being away from home when the check is in the mail. Electronic payments (direct deposit or Direct Express) are not only the best way to receive federal benefit payments — for most people, starting in March, they are the only way. The truth is, for most people getting monthly benefits, this isn’t really a change at all. That’s because more than nine out of 10 individuals who receive benefits from Social Security already receive payments electronically. If you get your payments the oldfashioned way and electronic payments are new to you, here are some things

you may want to know about your future payments. • Electronic payments are safer: there’s no risk of checks being lost or stolen; • Electronic payments are easy and reliable: there’s no need to wait for the mail or go to the bank to cash a check; • Electronic payments are good for the environment: they save paper and eliminate transportation costs; and finally; • Electronic payments save taxpayers money to the tune of $120 million per year: there are no costs for postage, paper, and printing; and • Electronic payments could save you money on check-cashing and bank fees. Please visit www.GoDirect.org today to learn more about getting your Social Security and SSI payments the safe, easy, inexpensive, and green way — electronically. And rest assured that on payment delivery day, you won’t have to wait for your money; your money is already in the bank and ready for you to use.

Those hallowed words ring true

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By Mary Stevenson

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • February 2013

ust over a year ago, I began caring for my parents on a more regular basis. I moved back to the area to be closer and should they need anything, I’d be a moment or two away. Their needs became more pressing and ongoing than I could have imagined but nothing that I could not handle as their daughter and as a trained nurse’s assistant. I took a CNA class when I lived in Michigan to get a job that would pay a little higher than I was making and expand my experiences in caring for others. Up until that point, I cared for young children—my own and those of Stevenson others, in my licensed daycare home. It was easy to change the diapers of infants and toddlers, plan an activity to keep 2- and 3-year-olds occupied and help 4-year-olds prepare for kindergarten. But now I was making the leap from those starting out their lives to those now in a place they never thought they’d be. Sounds easy enough, right? My instructor showed us films and read from a textbook, but the best thing she did was to give us hands-on experience of caring for adults—with each other in class. We fed each other different foods so we would understand how to feed someone and what it would feel like to be fed. We put on different glasses and experienced various vision problems so we could understand what it felt like to not have the sight we were used to. We each lay in a hospital bed while we were “bathed” and had our abilities temporarily removed to feel helpless and have someone else have to provide the personal care we would do every day on our own. In addition to learning to care for another adult, we learned what it felt like to be cared for. It brought a new meaning to “do unto others as you would want done unto you.”

Agonizing experience

In caring for Mom, it was difficult to watch as she struggled to remember how to wash her face or how to brush her teeth. There were many days where she wouldn’t get dressed because she didn’t remember how. I became her hands and eyes as I got her ready for her day and for bed each night. I remembered how she wouldn’t leave the house unless she was washed and clean, dressed and matched. Why should that be any different now that she can’t remember how? I would comb her hair, leaving a bit of a bang across her forehead. She would get mad and move it herself so I didn’t do that anymore. It wasn’t about what I wanted for her. It was about who

she was, who she still is and who she wanted to be. Showers were difficult. The tub itself wasn’t helpful for Mom to get in and out of so we had to work as a team to get in and out. I can take a shower anytime I want but mom had to wait for me to help her. Once a week, twice a week, it wasn’t on her time. I tried to let her soak up all the hot water she wanted for as long as she wanted, knowing how nice a long hot shower is sometimes, but her skin wasn’t as strong as it once was. Aging skin is thinner, tears more easily and needs more conditioning than when one is younger. Washing it too much can cause it to be brittle and tear, causing a host of other skin problems. I became more conscious of caring for her skin than even she probably did when she was younger. Mom didn’t quite have to be fed but her eating habits changed a great deal. Alzheimer’s had her believing she had eaten when she hadn’t and not eaten when she had just finished a meal. Dad would cook for her and I would set her plate, sometimes cutting her food so she could eat it without wondering what to do with a plate of food in front of her. It was difficult to watch, so very difficult. Then I would wonder how many times she fixed my plate when I was young and didn’t know what to do with a plate in front of me. It was a role reversal of sorts that, at that point, only I understood. As I cared for Mom and Dad too, I would think about what it would be like if that were me. How would I feel to have someone give me a shower and not be able to just hop in the tub when I wanted? What it would be like to have to wait for someone to take me to the bathroom instead of just getting up and walking there? I have an amazing amount of freedom and independence that I think I sometimes really do take for granted. It’s only when one cares for someone else that they can see themselves potentially in that light. Nobody lives their life saying, “I can’t wait to get old and have to depend on someone for my daily needs.” I think that everyone, whether they have to care for someone else or not, should take a CNA course and see what it’s like on the other side. Maybe it will help people be a little more tolerant of each other and of the aging process. Mom always told us, “Do unto others as you would have done unto you.” I had no idea back then how true it would be for her and I now. • Mary Stevenson is a staff writer with Mohawk Valley In Good Health newspaper.

Energy Zappers Feeling anything but perky? Find out why handfuls all day because nuts are high in calories. Practice portion control—an ounce or so a day of nuts I fine. • Coffee: Heading to Starbucks for your fifth cup of the day? Not only will the caffeine keep you tossing all night, it also does a number on your hormones. Coffee stimulates production of adrenaline and cortisol, two hormones that increase alertness. But that effect doesn’t last, so you pour another mug. Trouble is, after the third cup, the caffeine stops working. To boost energy, cut back—but don’t necessarily give up—coffee. One to three cups a day may make you sharper. • Sleep: It almost goes without saying: If you don’t get enough sleep, you’ll lack energy. Women need at least seven to nine hours of sleep

By Barbara Pierce

t’s 4 p.m. and you’ve hit the wall. Your zip is zapped. Zero. But before you grab a Baby Ruth or Snickers, find out why you lack energy. Fix it and put more pep in your step. You may be your own enemy when it comes to zapping your energy. Alessandra Kershaw, dietitian with Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare in Utica, suggests some things that can cause us to hit the wall, and what we can do about it. • Breakfast: Mom always told you to eat breakfast. But wolfing down a bagel or a doughnut as you sprint out the door isn’t what she had in mind. That kind of carbohydrate-rich meal tastes great, but you’ll crash in a few hours. Sugar-and-starch combos boost energy temporarily as we get a “sugar high.” Following the sugar high, we get a “sugar crash;” we feel tired and have no energy. And our brain can get fuzzy and cause trouble in concentration. “Breakfast is the most important meal of the day,” said Kershaw. “It will boost your metabolism, wake up your body, and get your mind on the right track for the day.” “Eating breakfast is an energy booster,” she added. A high fiber, high protein, moderate fat breakfast will give you energy throughout the day. A bowl of oatmeal or two boiled or poached eggs with tomato and lettuce make a great breakfast, says Dr. Stuart Fischer, founder of the Park Avenue Diet on Lifescript.com. Kershaw recommends: to sustain energy throughout the day, start the day with whole grains or lean protein. “A breakfast such as an egg white vegetable omelet with whole wheat toast with a few teaspoons of peanut butter or a yogurt with fruit and granola can give you all the essential nutrients you need and help boost your metabolism.” • Afternoon slump: It’s 4 p.m. and you need a wake-up call. A trip to the

snack room vending machine might perk you up, right? Wrong. That’s where you get burned. “A candy bar or cookie will give you a quick boost but will only last a very short time,” says Kershaw. Remember what happened with your sugarcoated breakfast? Candy, too, provides the boost but it’s quickly followed by a slump. The same goes for high-energy drinks, such as Red Bull. Watch out for “healthy” juices too, because they’re often loaded with sugar. About 12 ounces of orange juice has 10 spoonfuls of sugar, the same as in 12 ounces of cola.

Go high fiber, protein

Instead, to boost your energy, choose high-fiber or protein snacks, advises Kershaw. “A granola bar, trail mix, yogurt with granola, or peanut butter and crackers are great afternoon snacks.

More nutrient-dense foods have a lasting effect and will help curb your appetite for more foods until your next meal.” An example would be a slice of turkey wrapped around a carrot stick or celery stalk, Fischer said. Edamame (green soy beans) are an excellent source of soy and protein and healthy. String cheese, pretzels and yogurt all make good pick-meups. Nuts, such as pistachios, raw almonds and walnuts are another energy-booster. An added bonus: They keep your heart healthy. People who ate nuts several times a week reduced their risk of heart attack, sudden cardiac death or cardiovascular disease by 30 to 50 percent, according to recent studies. Just don’t mindlessly munch

a night. • Exercise: Too tired to work out? Whatever you do, don’t skip it. Exercise will put spring in your step. People who complained of fatigue increased their energy levels by 20 percent with regular, low-intensity exercise, such as walking. To boost your energy, exercise every day, even for as little as 10 minutes. A 10-minute walk can boost your energy for up to two hours. • Stress: Not only will being under chronic stress zap your energy, but it can cause physical problems such as chronic pain, digestive problems, heart disease and diabetes. Kershaw sums up: “I recommend my clients try to get enough sleep, add moderate exercise to their daily lives, and find non-food related behaviors to help reduce stress. When they pair these with a well-balanced diet, they see their energy increase.”

Community Foundation awards grant to LFH

ittle Falls Hospital has been awarded a grant of $100,000 in support of the construction and development of the Bassett Heart Institute LFH. This project is a component of the broad capital improvement that will enable LFH to meet growth in demand for outpatient care and facilitate emergency care. The grant was made possible by The Community Foundation of Herkimer & Oneida Counties, Inc., the Douglas J. Grant Fund; Frank, Mame and J. Lansing Reed Fund; & Ruth Begent Fund and the Wesley & Marion Small Fund. The Bassett Heart Care Institute is a component of the $12.3 million project that will enhance other areas of the hospital including the surgical area and operating rooms, radiology, physical and occupational therapy, and electrical service.

LFH, Herkimer County’s only hospital and part of the Bassett Healthcare Network, is embarking on a major expansion and renovation project to upgrade its facility in order to accommodate a double-digit increase in the demand for outpatient services and continue to meet the needs of the region it serves. The project will improve access and the overall patient experience by enhancing the hospital’s surgical suite as well as radiology, cardiology, and rehabilitation services. LFH handles 14,000-15,000 emergency visits every year, performs over 80,000 lab tests, handles over 10,000 physical therapy sessions, and provides more than 1,000 outpatient surgeries. The hospital serves an estimated population of 54,000 people living in Herkimer County and parts of Fulton and Montgomery counties. February 2013 •

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

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Page 9

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IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • February 2013

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IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

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Page 11

The Ragin’ Cajun

By Malissa Allen

Teen Suicide Survivors ask themselves, ‘Why?’ Editor’s note: This is the first of three segments on the topic of teenage suicide. Staff writer Malissa Allen is exploring the whys that surround this baffling human phenomena.

few months ago, I was reading The National Missing and Exploited page on Facebook showing people from all over that are missing, mostly children. One caught my eye, one in my home state, Louisiana. He went missing the day before after having an argument with his Mom. What a horrible feeling that must have felt to that mother. Through Facebook, she asking that people spread the word about his absence and posted his photo. Wasn’t long before hundreds joined the search, sending messages to him to call somebody and that they would be there for him. His Mom posted mesAllen sages and pictures of him constantly. They called him “The Music Man,” while others told stories of his magic tricks. He had been in many plays and musical events and all in all he was a very liked and popular kid. Days went by as I checked his page with hope I’d see a post saying, “Hooray, he is home.” That was far from what happened. He had somehow gotten his hands on a shotgun, all by himself, and took his own life. As I read his story, many faces began to come to mind of the many young people, still in junior and senior high school, who drew recognition for taking their own lives as well. Many killed themselves due to someone picking on them, or bullying them over their sexuality or a having a lifestyle different than theirs. Is it really any of our business what some one’s sexual preference is?

Leading cause of death

According to the website www. stopbullying.gov, one of the leading causes of death among teenagers is suicide. The Centers for Disease Control report it is the third-leading cause of death, behind accidents and homicide, of people aged 15-24. Even more disturbing is the fact that suicide is the fourth-leading cause of death for children between the ages of 10-14. When I was in high school back in the ‘80s, I lived in a very small north Louisiana town, Plain Dealing. We would all meet up at the local store there in town to get our Icee and talk a little more before heading home. One girl didn’t show up. None of us knew where she went or if she had gotten sick. I lived about 15 minutes from town, out in the country. When I walked in the door, I knew something Page 12

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was wrong. My mom said my friend had just committed suicide with her brother’s hunting rifle. We had never known anyone that took his or her own life. I spent many days trying to figure out what on earth could have happened just within that 30-minute window that caused Lori to take her life. Could I have helped her if I had reached out to her? When I went to research information for this story, I was shocked and saddened to see the high number of kids who had taken their lives last year. The reasons were because their classmates made fun of them for being gay, poor or just anything that could have stood out as “different.” Not just one family destroyed; several lives would never be the same. When I was a kid, the bullying was within the classroom or on the playground. We didn’t have to deal with social networking where classmates can now ambush you as a group around the clock. Access to the Internet also allows people to hide behind fake screen names and brutalize their victims anonymously. Photoshopping is another popular way used to demean and embarrass victims by imposing their faces on unflattering pictures.

thing they’ll not only need as a student, but life in general. When kids grow up hearing their parents voice negative thoughts and judgment of others, then how do we expect the kids to be? This must change. Teen suicide is becoming epidemic. Over the next couple of months, I will be talking about people who have faced suicide in their lives. The only way we are going to help put an end to this is to educate parents on the seriousness of what their children may be facing, or what their own children may be doing to each other. Parents have to pay attention to a child’s behavior and personality. Are they becoming withdrawn? Do they spend all their time in their room or

Who is responsible?

Is it the responsibility of the school system to help students with their sexuality or is that up to the parent? Should it be part of sex education classes? I don’t know if it’s the responsibility of the school to help students with their sexuality, but they do need to teach these students about tolerance. They need to know tolerance is some-

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • February 2013

on the computer? Do they no longer spend time with friends or go to the local mall like they used to. Talk to your kids daily about how school is going; if necessary, talk to their friends as well. You may even need to talk to their teachers and get to the bottom of these lifestyle changes. Don’t be afraid to talk to them about anything. They need to know that they can come to you, no matter what. It could be the thing that prevents them from taking their own life. Below are websites that can be of help if you know someone who has talked about or you suspect has suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Educate yourselves and your children, and perhaps save a life.

Suicide prevention websites • www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/pub/youth_ suicide.html • www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org • www.spsamerica.org • www.samhsa.gov/prevention/suicide.aspx • www.omh.ny.gov/omhweb/suicide_prevention/ regional/Central/oneida_coal.html • www.ocgov.net/mentalhealth/teenservice

Heart Issues Keeping the beat Survivors of heart disease grateful for advances in medicine By Patricia J. Malin

“

She is now an active 21-year-old and competitive swimmer and diver at Hartwick College in Oneonta. She is studying in Spain as an exchange student. In addition to participating in sports, she gives back to the community by working with nonprofit organizations.

You’ve come a long way, baby!” is an expression that seems tailormade for Audrey Strong. Judging from her zest to participate in a wide range of sports such as soccer, horseback riding and skiing, no one would guess that she was born Enjoying long life with a heart defect. Christine Vetere’s gratitude to the “I was only 2 weeks old when I American Heart Association is endhad my heart surgery,” she said. less. “A thousand thank yous!” she Strong is one of five “red cap amexclaimed. “My father is here today bassadors,” all survibecause of you and vors of heart disease, all the research and chosen by the Utica progress that has chapter of the Ameribeen made over the can Heart Association years.” to promote America’s In June 1990, Greatest Heart Run & when Leonard was 60 Walk 2013. years old, he began Their stories experiencing chest represent miracles pain and difficulty of modern medicine, breathing. Due to a which have come as lack of local facilities, a result of increased Vetere was transresearch and funding ferred to Elmira for in the field of cardiolopen-heart surgery ogy. and a quintuple The others are Anbypass operation. He thony Amodio, Leonwent to Syracuse for ard Vetere, Nathan rehabilitation. Hurlbut and Makaila A few years later, DellAnno. he was diagnosed Amodio, 48, had with prostate cancer. a genetic birth defect The issue of whether Makaila DellAnno that went undiagnosed his heart was strong for decades, even enough to endure though heart disease aggressive treatment claimed the life of his younger brother or surgery was an issue, said Christine. and his uncle. However, his cardiologist and oncoloVetere, almost 82, has had a regist decided to treat him using a radiomarkable recovery from several surger- active seed implant. Two years later, ies, all in the last 20 years. he was diagnosed with bladder cancer. Makaila Dell Anno and Nathan He underwent surgery to remove the Hurlbut, a pair of 2-year-olds, prove tumors and later had a combination of that you’re never too young to be diag- chemotherapy and radiation. nosed with heart trouble. Like Strong, Still, Leonard’s battles weren’t they have benefited from welcome over. The bladder cancer lasted several advances in pediatric heart research. years and the tumors would often reocUltrasound tests were not comcur. After that, he was diagnosed with monly used 20 years ago when Strong’s a severely narrowed carotid artery and mother was pregnant. When Audrey needed surgery again. was born, her mother was told that the A few years after that, he began baby’s “heart was tipped the wrong having angina symptoms. way,” Audrey explained. “The aorta As Christine noted, “It was then was attached to the top of the pulwe began the heart battle all over monary artery, so the blood was not again.” He had undergone numerous circulating properly.” angioplasties and received about nine It caused pressure on her organs to 12 stents at a Syracuse hospital. The that could have threatened her life. In procedure was not done in Utica until the early 1990s, physicians and special- recent years. ists were not as experienced as today in Over the last four years, Leonard detecting and correcting these anomaexperienced many periods of dizzilies. “My doctors were not able to unness, blackouts and falls, and ended up derstand what the blockage was until breaking his shoulder and his pelvis. In they performed open-heart surgery,” 2011, Leonard continued to experience she said. severe chest pain and difficulty breathThe doctors did find a way to ing and was frequently hospitalized. reattach the artery to its rightful place “His cardiologist in Syracuse on the aorta. With regular checkups to informed us of a new procedure the cardiologist, Audrey received the called TAVI (transcatheter aortic valve doctor’s permission to play sports. implementation) where they could Audrey said she lived with “a insert a prosthetic valve into the heart slight murmur” in her heart where the percutaneously (a needle is inserted repair work had been done. However, into a catheter, rather than opening a physical in 2012 revealed that the up the body as in surgery),” Christine murmur was almost gone.

recalled. Leonard underwent his second open heart surgery, which included a new aortic valve and double bypass on April 21, 2011, at age 81. The surgery took 16 hours, said Christine, and some complications arose, but he made it through.

Bumpy introduction to life

When Makaila Rose DellAnno was born on Sept. 1, 2010, three days late, her mother, Angela Jackson, nearly died of fright. “Within minutes of me holding her, Makaila’s entire body went a very dark shade of blue,” she said. The doctors at the hospital soon diagnosed Makaila with a heart condition called tetralogy of fallot, a disease that affects four chambers of the heart. Makaila had two serious problems, a blockage in one valve that did not allow enough blood and oxygen to go from her heart to her lungs, plus she had a hole in her heart. Within hours of her birth, she was taken by ambulance to Syracuse and placed in a neonatal intensive care unit and prepared for emergency open-heart surgery. Makaila’s mother, shaken up by the news and still recovering from a difficult birth, feared it would be the last time she would see her baby. “They had to lift me into a wheelchair and roll me to the nursery where my newborn tiny little baby was in a little crib covered in wires all over her body and down her throat, and they were loading her into an ambulance,” she said. After a week in intensive care, Makaila was allowed to go home. The doctors decided to postpone future surgery for a few months, but Jackson said everyday was a constant worry that she might turn blue again. When Makaila turned 2 months old, she underwent surgery in Rochester. Makaila had an artery growing in front of the blockage. Rather than cut around the artery, the surgeon decided to put in a shunt. “We went to the hos-

February 2013 •

pital chapel and prayed,” said Jackson. Makaila went for a heart catherization in December 2011. The shunt was working so well that she didn’t need surgery again until spring 2012. She will still need periodic surgery, including the implantation of pig valves as her body develops, until she reaches 18. Every time Makaila had an appointment in Syracuse, six family members would all pile into the car and fill up the chairs in the doctor’s waiting room. “For this reason the nurses there and the doctor started calling us Makaila’s entourage,” Jackson said. “We participated in our first America’s Greatest Heart Run and Walk in February 2012 and raised a little over $1,800.”

Open-heart surgery for baby

Nathan Hurlbut was born Nov. 16, 2010. When he was 2 weeks old, he needed an echocardiogram (ultrasound) because of a very loud heart murmur. A doctor diagnosed him with ventricular septal defect, meaning a large hole in his heart. Nathan’s mother, Diane Hurlbut, recalled a frenzied time when Nathan came home from the hospital. “(There were) feedings every two to three hours to ensure his growth and nutrition, while working full time and trying to maintain normalcy for our two older children, Lindsey and Aimee.” Nathan developed congestive heart failure and an enlarged heart and liver when he was 3 months old and required daily medication. When he was 6 months old, he had open-heart surgery to repair the defect. Two abscesses, pneumonia and some feeding issues complicated his recovery. “The surgeon told us afterward that it was amazing that he was as healthy as he was because the hole in his heart was so huge,” Diane said. Since then, Nathan has grown into an active 2-year-old. “He loves to be around people. He always has a smile

Continued on Page 14

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

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Page 13

Heart Issues Hand-on approach You can save lives by knowing CPR By Kristen Raab

ccording to the American Heart Association, 88 percent of cardiac arrests occur in the home. Because of this fact, learning cardiopulmonary resuscitation should be on everyone’s to-do list. Learning hands-only CPR is being strongly recommended by the AHA as it may help save many lives. What is hands-only CPR? The steps are very basic: First, when it’s clear that someone is unresponsive, call 911. Next, push hard and fast at the center of the chest. The AHA says these pushes should be Dubeck done to the “beat of the classic disco song “Stayin’ Alive (more than 100 beats per minute).” Check out information and a video about hands-only CPR at www.heart. org. According to the AHA website, CPR with compressions and breaths is still recommended for the following: • Infants (up to age 1) • Prepubescent children • A person who is found unconscious and not breathing normally • Drowning or drug overdose victims • Someone who has collapsed due to breathing problems, or has experienced prolonged cardiac arrest

Frank Dubeck emphasizes the importance of knowing how to perform CPR. Dubeck is the president of the Utica region’s AHA, and he is also the chief medical officer for medical policy and clinical editing at Excellus BlueCrossBlueShield (Utica Region). Who should know CPR? Dubeck says, “The short answer is everyone.” This is because during cardiac arrest, “your best chance of survival is the person next to you.” In addition, “Certainly people living with known heart patients should be trained as a priority.” Dubeck said we can never be certain when we will need to help someone with CPR techniques. Some might assume you would only need it if someone in your home had heart problems. However, “For 25 percent of people with sudden death, it is their first symptom of heart disease.” The AHA website says, “Effective bystander CPR provided immediately after sudden cardiac arrest can double or triple a victim’s chance of survival, but only 32 percent of cardiac arrest victims get CPR from a bystander.” Dubeck suggests finding training at local hospitals, colleges, The Red Cross, or even online. Getting these skills into the hands of as many people as possible is the goal. According to Dubeck, CPR is “an essential life skill” and “should be taught in high school health class.” Some opponents may worry about cost, but, “hands-only CPR has lowcost training materials and can be done in 30 minutes of health or PE class,” Dubeck said.

Heart ambassadors tell compelling tales of courage AHA promotes annual Heart Run & Walk Continued from Page 13 on his face,” his mother said. His sisters started a heart run/ walk team last year to honor their little brother and to help raise money for the American Heart Association.

Family plagued by heart problems

Amodio of Utica was always hoping to find a way to spare his mother from any more family tragedies. It started in 1998 when his 24-year-old brother died suddenly from cardiomyopathy, a heart ailment that went undiagnosed. Four years later, his uncle Roger Amodio died suddenly at the age of 56. Anthony’s own health problems emerged when he was in his late 20s. He was driving to work one day when his heart started racing. Three different specialists diagnosed him with severe “anxiety,” he recalled. After all, he was just 26 years old and strong (he lifted weights and jogged regularly) and he wasn’t expected to have heart trouble. One cardiologist suggested he had a leaky valve, but he lived trouble-free for the next 17 years. Meanwhile, Amodio had moved to Schenectady to take a new job. Three years ago at a checkup, his primary care physician detected a heart murmur and recommended further tests. Amodio, then 46, learned he had a birth defect in his aortic valve. He was stunned to hear that all his years of physical activity had created additional problems. His heart had become enlarged and developed stenosis (calcium

deposits). Amodio said this news was not only shocking, but it added to his immediate stress. He was going through a divorce, traveling long distances and spending long hours at his job and now he had to worry if he was going to experience a heart attack and death at middle age. His past soon came back to haunt him. In August 2011, he was driving home from work in Clifton Park when he experienced atrial fibrillation (irregular heartbeat). He immediately stopped his car in traffic and asked a driver and passenger in the car behind him to call 911. He was hospitalized and told he needed a heart valve replacement. After speaking with his family and doing research, he decided to go to the world-famous Cleveland Clinic for surgery. It took place the day after Easter 2012. He was given a new valve, part mechanical and part plastic. “It was one of the scariest days of my life,” he said. “My mother gave me a lock of my brother’s hair for luck and I felt he was there with me.” Amodio has resumed running (five miles a day) and he has switched to a less stressful job. Still, he occasionally wonders about the emotional cost of the operation. “I feel guilty because my brother and my uncle died,” he commented. “They didn’t have a chance, but I survived. I guess I can spread the word [about heart disease] and talk to other people now.”

Meet

Your Doctor

By Lou Sorendo

Place more focus on preventive medicine Continued from Page 4 in general should take more personal responsibility for being healthy? A. Obesity is fast becoming a crisis in the United States. It is strongly linked to diabetes and high blood pressure. It is estimated that half the population will be obese by 2020. I think part of the healthcare solution is in improved preventive medicine, and that will require effort and interest on the public’s part. Just following your providers’ recommendations is not enough. The public needs to be proactive—learn how to be healthy from multiple sources, not just Page 14

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IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • February 2013

your physicians. Q.: In general terms, what do you think of “Obamacare” and do you think it will offer any solutions to current problems plaguing the healthcare industry? A.: Uninsured Americans is a travesty. Obamacare attempts to address that. It has its benefits and drawbacks. It requires that the public plays an active role in their healthcare and that is great. However, I think more needs to be done to reduce the cost of providing healthcare. Hospital closures are a serious issue, and put more stress on existing ones. I am optimistic and nervous.

By Jim Miller

How to find, hire good home care workers Dear Savvy Senior, What’s the best way to find a good in-home caregiver for my elderly mother? Looking for Care Dear Looking, Finding a good in-home caregiver who is dependable, likeable, trustworthy and affordable can be challenging, to say the least. Here are some tips and resources that can help. Know Your Needs

Before you start the task of looking for a caregiver, your first step is to determine the level of care your mom’s needs (see www.NCLneedsassessment. org for a checklist). If, for example, she only needs help with activities of daily living like preparing meals, doing laundry, bathing or dressing, a “homemaker” or “personal care aide” will do. But, if she needs health care services, there are “home health aides” that may do all the things a homemaker does, plus they also have training in administering medications, changing wound dressings and other medically related duties. Home health aides often work under a nurse’s supervision. Once you settle on a level of care, you then need to decide how many hours of assistance she’ll need. For example, does your mom need someone to come in just a few mornings a week to help her cook, clean, run errands or perhaps bathe? Or does she need more continuous care that requires daily visits or a full-time aide? After you determine her needs, there are two ways in which you can go about hiring someone. Either through a home health agency, or you can hire someone directly on your own.

Home Health Agencies

Hiring a certified home health agency to supply and manage your mom’s care is the easiest but most expensive option of the two. Costs run anywhere from $12 up to $40 an hour depending on where you live and the qualification of the aide. This is also usually a better way to go if your mom requires a lot of in-home health care. How it works is you pay the agency, and they handle everything including an assessment of your mom’s needs, assigning appropriately trained

and pre-screened staff to care for her, and finding a fill-in on days her aide cannot come. Some of the drawbacks, however, are that you may not have much input into the selection of the caregiver, and the caregivers may change or alternate, which can cause a disruption in care and confusion. You also need to know that while Medicare does cover some in-home health care services if it’s ordered by a doctor, they don’t cover homemaker services, nor will they cover personal care services, such as bathing and dressing, provided by a home health aide if that is the only care required. But if your mom is low-income and qualifies for Medicaid, some services are covered. To locate and compare Medicareapproved home health agencies visit www.medicare.gov/hhcompare, and call 800-633-4227 and request a free copy of the “Medicare and Home Health Care” publication (#10969) that explains coverage and how to choose an agency.

Hiring Directly

Hiring an independent caregiver on your own is the other option, and it’s less expensive. Costs typically range between $10 and $20 per hour. Hiring directly also gives you more control over who you hire so you can choose someone who you feel is right for your mom. But be aware that if you do hire someone on your own, you become the employer so there’s no agency support to fall back on if a problem occurs or if the aide doesn’t show up. You’re also responsible for paying payroll taxes and any worker-related injuries that may happen. If you choose this option make sure you check the aide’s references thoroughly, and do a criminal background check. To find someone, ask for referrals through friends, doctor’s offices or hospital discharge planners, check online job boards like craigslist.org, or try carelinx.com or carescout.com. Some states even offer registries (PHImatchingservicesmap.org) to help you locate good caregivers. Or, for a fee, a geriatric care manager (caremanager.org) can help find someone.

Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit www.savvysenior. org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book.

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IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

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Page 15

CALENDAR of

HEALTH EVENTS

Continued from Page 2 The college offers a two-year Associate in Applied Science degree in nursing. SECON offers an evening-weekend nursing program in addition to the weekday program. To reserve a seat, go online at www. second.edu. For more information, call 315-7988347.

Feb. 7

Learn how you can save a life in an emergency Sudden cardiac arrest is a major cause of death in the United States, taking three lives every seven minutes. According to the American Heart Association, four out of five cardiac arrests happen at home. Choking, another leading cause of accidental death in the U.S., results in about 2,500 deaths per year. In recognition of American Heart Month, Rome Memorial Hospital’s Director of Education Gale Barone, critical care coordinator Richard Simpson, and patient educator Mary Rose Spellicy will discuss how to recognize a heart or choking emergency and how the Heimlich maneuver, cardiopulmonary resuscitation and the use of an automated external defibrillator can save lives. The Health Night program will be held at 7 p.m. Feb. 7 in the hospital’s classroom. Health Night is a monthly lecture series, sponsored by RMH. Advance registration is not required. Refreshments will be served. RMH’s classroom is located on the second floor of the hospital. Those attending should enter the North James Street entrance of the hospital.

Feb. 8

Poetry contest set for ‘March Meatball Madness’ Abraham House has a call out to all children aged 5–12 to create a poem about meatballs. Six winners will be chosen to participate in the kid judges’ panel for March Meatball Madness from noon to 3 p.m. March 3 to determine which local restaurant has the best meatball recipe. March Meatball Madness will be held at The Hotel Utica, 102 Lafayette St., Utica. The poem about meatballs must be no longer than eight lines. The six winners will receive four complimentary tickets to March Meatball Madness, a Meatball Madness T-shirt and a Meatball Madness game. Children must send or drop off their poems by Feb. 8 to Abraham House, 1203 Kemble St., Utica, NY 13501. On the back of their poem, children need to include their name, school, telephone number and age. Winners will be notified by phone. For further information, contact the Abraham House at 733-8210. The Abraham House’s mission is Page 16

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to provide a secure and loving home without charge to the terminally ill.

Feb. 9

Are you ready to ‘Dance the Night Away?’ The Good News Center’s seven annual “Dance the Night Away” fundraiser will be held Feb. 9 at Hart’s Hill Inn, Whitesboro. Proceeds support the programs offered by The Good News Center to help strengthen marriages and families. For more information or for tickets, call 735-6210 or go to www.thegoodnewscenter.org.

Feb. 10

Marriage issues? Time to consider ‘The Third Option’ The Third Option meets at 6:30 p.m. every other Sunday at The Good News Center, 10475 Cosby Manor Road, Utica. The next meeting is Feb. 10. The Third Option is a faith-based support group for married couples. For more information, contact Andrea, program coordinator, at 315-735-6210 ext. 228, andrea@thegoodnewscenter.org or visit www.thegoodnewscenter.org.

Feb. 13

Hospital to host breastfeeding class Rome Memorial Hospital is hosting a free breastfeeding class at 7 p.m. Feb. 13 in the hospital’s classroom. The class is designed to help mothers-to-be recognize the benefits of breastfeeding and give them the encouragement to overcome some of the obstacles. The speaker, Sandy Graichen, is a maternity nurse at the hospital with children of her own. No pre-registration is required. Refreshments will be served. Those wishing to attend can meet the instructor in the hospital lobby, North James Street entrance. For more information, call 3387143.

Feb. 14

Harley-Davidson drawing on Valentine’s Day Sitrin Medical Rehabilitation Center’s 17th annual Harley-Davidson fundraiser is sold out. A total of 4,250 tickets were sold at $10 each. One lucky person will ride away on a 2013 Street Glide FLHX. It is valued at $20,094 and features the powerful Twin Cam 103 engine. The drawing will take place at noon on Valentine’s Day, Feb. 14 in the lobby of the Sitrin Medical Rehabilitation Center, 2050 Tilden Ave., New Hartford.

Ticket holders need not be present to win. Proceeds from this fundraiser benefit the Sitrin Medical Rehabilitation Center, a nonprofit corporation.

Feb. 19

Call out for meatball eating contestants Abraham House has a call out to anyone 18 years and older who would like to participate in Abraham House’s meatball eating contest during March Meatball Madness. March Meatball Madness will be held from noon to 3 p.m. March 4 at the Blue Flag Room at Hotel Utica, 102 Lafayette St. The meatball-eating contest will start at 2 p.m. Winners who can eat the most meatballs in two minutes will receive $200, a winner’s trophy along with bragging rights. Contest applicants must also submit $100 in pledges to sponsor themselves as a contestant. Applications and pledge forms are available at Abraham House, 1203 Kemble St., Utica; its website at www.theabrahamhouse, or request an application by email at infor@abrahamhouse.org. Deadline for applications is Feb. 19. For further information, contact Abraham House at 733-8210. Abraham House’s mission is to provide a secure and loving home without charge to the terminally ill.

March 1-3

Retrouvaille: rediscover your marriage Retrouvaille (pronounced retro-vi with a long I), which means “rediscovery,” will be featured March 1-3 at The Good News Center, 10475 Cosby Manor Road, Utica. The program offers the chance to rediscover one’s marriage. To register, call 315-735-6210 or email: Andrea@thegoodnewscenter. com or visit www.thegoodnewscenter. org.

March 3

Shake the pines with Big Brothers Big Sisters The annual Bowl for Kids’ Sake, to benefit the local Big Brothers Big Sisters program, will be held at 2 p.m. March 3 at State Bowling Center in Ilion and at both 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. March 10 at AMF Pin-O-Rama in Utica and at King Pin Lanes in Rome. Bowl for Kids’ Sake is the signature event for the local Big Brothers Big Sisters organization to help raise funds and recruit new volunteers. For more information about Bowl for Kids’ Sake 2013, or to request registration forms, contact Upstate Cerebral Palsy at 315-724-6907 ext. 2279. To register online, visit upstatecp. org under “Get Involved.” Raffle tickets to benefit the Big Brothers Big Sisters program may also be purchased at Symeon’s and Chanatry’s on various dates and times or by calling 724-6907 ext. 2279. First prize is the new iPad 4G.

March 19

Support group set those with diabetes, pre-diabetes

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • February 2013

The Central New York Diabetes

Education Program is introducing a new adult support group for those with diabetes and pre-diabetes called “Trading Up.” This group provides attendees the opportunity to speak with others who are living similar lifestyles and dealing with the daily impact of diabetes management. The Trading Up group will meet quarterly during the year. Its next meeting is from 6:30-7:30 p.m. March 20 at CNY Diabetes, located on the fourth floor of the Faxton Campus, 1676 Sunset Ave., Utica. Members should feel free to arrange to meet on a more frequent basis if desired. Each meeting includes current news and information about diabetes and provides a conversation forum between members. Those interested in attending are asked to RSVP by March 19 by calling 315-624-5620 or email at cjacobus@mvnhealth.com Those responding should leave their full name and telephone number. The CNY Diabetes Education Program is a cooperative effort of Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare and St. Elizabeth Medical Center.

April 26

Prohibition party to aid SEMC cause St. Elizabeth Medical Center Foundation and F.X. Matt Brewery in Utica will hold the fifth annual Prohibition Party, sponsored by Dr. Greg Orlando of Mohawk Valley Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. The event will be held from 6-9 p.m. April 26 at the historic F.X. Matt Brewing Co., 811 Edward St. Proceeds from the party will be used to purchase endobronchial ultrasound equipment for St. Elizabeth Medical Center. Sponsorship opportunities for the party are available. Those interested are asked to call 315-734-4287, or email awiswell@stemc.org. Tickets may also be purchased online at www.stemc.org/foundation or by visiting the St. Elizabeth Medical Center Foundation Office, 2209 Genesee St., Utica, or the F.X. Matt Brewing Co. Gift Shop/Tour Center, 830 Varick St., Utica.

April 26

Conference to focus on sudden loss The Utica Region All-Inclusive Care for Children Coalition will host “Beyond Words: Helping Families Through Grief After Sudden Loss” on April 26 at Vernon Downs Casino & Hotel, Vernon. The all-day, 12-workshop conference will host a variety of national and regional presenters discussing the challenging topic of sudden loss. The conference is open to professionals and students in the psychology, medical, social work and other similar fields. The cost of the conference is $95. Students may attend at a discounted fee of $60. The cost includes lunch and materials. To register, visit http://www.allinclusivecareforchildren.com/conference. htm. For more information about the conference, contact Laurie Fazekas, conference chairperson, at 315-723-9153 or Laurie.Fazekas@upstatecp.org.

H ealth News St. E’s medical staff elects new ofﬁcers Mark E. Warfel, of Clinton, director of medical education and medical director of the St. Elizabeth Medical Group in Utica, has been elected president of the medical staff at St. Elizabeth Medical Center for 2013. Cardiologist Fred L. Talarico of Utica has been elected vice president and cardioWarfel thoracic surgeon Frederic S. Joyce of Utica has been elected secretary-treasurer. Delegatesat-large to the medical executive committee are Francis Chabot, family medicine; Ashok Patel, cardiologist; Clifford Soults, neurosurgeon; James Dennison, orthopedic surTalarico geon; Oleg Dulkin,

family medicine and Jeffrey Sekula, urologist. Warfel is a family practitioner and is a graduate of the St. Elizabeth Hospital Family Medicine Program. Talarico attended Boston University for undergraduate work and then attended Autonomous Joyce University of Guadalajara, and he received his medical degree from the State University of New York. Joyce is a cardiothoracic surgeon with the Mohawk Valley Surgery Group. Originally from Rhode Island, Joyce received his medical degree from Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark. He has been a cardiothoracic surgeon with the Mohawk Valley Heart Institute since it began in 1997.

Dispose of sharps/needles at SEMC St. Elizabeth Medical Center in Utica provides a household sharps disposal program for people who want to dispose of sharp medical instruments such as insulin hypodermic needles. The program is open to individuals

from private residences, not businesses. Sharp instruments, packed in a puncture-proof container and clearly marked as “sharps,” may be brought to the hospital services department, located in the basement of the medical center, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays excluding holidays. For more information, contact hospital services at 315-798-8249.

MV Endoscopy Center achieves accreditation Mohawk Valley Endoscopy Center, Utica, has achieved re-accreditation by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care. Accreditation distinguishes this ambulatory surgery center specializing in endoscopy from many other outpatient facilities by providing the highest quality of care to its patients as determined by an independent, external process of evaluation. Status as an accredited organization means MVEC has met nationally recognized standards for the provision of quality health care set by AAAHC. More than 5,000 ambulatory health care organizations across the United States are accredited by AAAHC. Not all ambulatory health care organizations seek accreditation; not all that undergo the rigorous on-site survey process are granted accreditation. “We believe our patients deserve the best,” said Bradley Sklar, medical director of Mohawk Valley Endoscopy

KIDS Corner T

Center. “When you see our certificate of accreditation, you will know that AAAHC, an independent, nonprofit organization, has closely examined our facility and procedures. It means we as an organization care enough about our patients to strive for the highest level of care possible.”

RMH accredited for digital mammography services Rome Memorial Hospital has been awarded a three-year accreditation by the American College of Radiology for its digital mammography services, announced medical imaging department director Sharon Carson. “This accreditation status assures our patients that they are receiving the best possible images, using the latest technology,” Carson said. “ACR accreditation also highlights our radiologists’ skill in interpreting mammography images which is a key factor in early diagnosis.” The ACR is the principal organization of radiologists, radiation oncologists, and clinical medical physicists in the United States. RMH was awarded accreditation for its achievement of high practice standards after a peer-review evaluation of the hospital’s practice. RMH provides digital mammography services at the hospital’s 1500 N. James St. site.

Continued on Page 18

Flu vaccine rates in children remain lower than expected

When should you keep your child home sick from school?

hildren are bound to come down with the occasional cold or other viral illness, especially when cold weather keeps a whole class cooped up inside all day. Whether or not to keep your sick child home from school or daycare can be a difficult decision to make, and may also depend on your child’s school or daycare policies. A Mayo physician offers tips on how to decide. “Young children’s immune systems haven’t learned to recognize and resist most common viruses,” explains Robert Key, family physician at Mayo Clinic Health System in Prairie du Chien. “That’s why, until they’re 8 or so, kids seem to bring home everything that’s making the rounds at school. Children can typically have six to 10 colds per year.” “In general, children should stay home when they don’t feel well enough

to participate in normal daily activities and lack sufficient alertness to learn or play,” Key says. He suggests that kids should stay home when they experience: • Vomiting twice or more over a 24hour period or being unable to tolerate normal food and drink, or both. • A temperature of 101 or higher. • Severe coughing or difficulty breathing. • Repeated bouts of severe diarrhea for at least a day. • Persistent abdominal pain (more than two hours). • Open sores on the mouth. • A skin rash or red eye from an undetermined cause. • Head lice or scabies. • Other contagious conditions such as strep throat, chicken pox, impetigo, etc. According to Mayo Clinic, the top four infectious illnesses that keep chil-

his year’s flu season is in full swing with 41 states now reporting widespread illness. Unfortunately, not enough children are getting the flu shot even though health officials recommend that all children 6 months and older get the vaccine. According to a new study by researchers at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, less than 45 percent of children were vaccinated against the flu during a five-year study period. “Our research showed that one in six children under age 5 who went to an emergency department or clinic with fever and respiratory symptoms during the peak flu seasons had the flu,” said Katherine Poehling, associate professor of pediatrics and epidemiology at Wake Forest Baptist and lead author of the study, published in the online edition of the February issue of Pediatrics. “Many of those ill-

dren home from school or daycare are colds, the “stomach flu,” pink eye and strep throat. If your child’s illness seems to be more than just a common cold or flu, you may want to contact his or her regular health care provider to see whether the symptoms could indicate something more serious.

February 2013 •

nesses could have been prevented by vaccination, the best known protection against the flu.” The researchers found that children less than 6 months of age had the highest hospitalization rates with flu. “Parents should include a yearly flu shot to protect themselves and their children,” Poehling said. “The best way to protect infants too young to receive the influenza vaccine is for pregnant women, the infant’s family members and contacts to get the shot, too.” The study, funded by The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, reported population-based data on confirmed flu cases in children younger than 5 years old in three counties in Ohio, New York and Tennessee. More than 8,000 children seen in inpatient, emergency department and clinic settings were included during five flu seasons from 2004 through 2009. The single most important thing your child can do to prevent illness is to wash his or her hands thoroughly and frequently. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that people wash their hands with soap and warm water for 15 seconds — about as long as it takes to sing the “Happy Birthday” song twice.

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

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Page 17

H ealth News Continued from Page 17

FSLH makes staff announcement Andrea MacDiarmid has been named Children’s Miracle Network coordinator for the Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare Foundation in Utica. In this position, MacDiarmid is responsible for the ongoing growth of philanthropic support to Macdiarmid benefit women’s and children’s services at FSLH. Prior to joining FSLH, MacDiarmid was a corporate event director for the American Heart Association in Utica. She also held positions as an area sales manager for Genex Services in Dewitt and as a claims adjuster-claims service representative for Utica National Insurance Company in Utica. MacDiarmid received her Bachelor of Science degree in social sciences from Utica College.

New board members at FSLH Foundation The Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare Foundation in Utica recently announced new directors to serve on its board: • Blair Jones is an executive compensation consultant for Semler Brossy Consulting Group, LLC in Los Angeles, Calif. Jones represents the company from her home in Clinton. In her role as an executive compensation consultant, Jones Jones advises the boards of directors of Fortune 500 companies to link strategy and executive rewards design. • Patrick Knapp is an anesthesiologist and employee of Sunset Anesthesia Associates, LLP. He practices at FSLH. Knapp earned his bachelor’s degree from Cornell UniverKnapp sity in Ithaca and his medical degree from SUNY Upstate Medical University in Syracuse. • Robert Luke Lewis is the owner of Lewis Custom Homes, Inc., in New Page 18

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Lewis

Hartford. Lewis Custom Homes, Inc. is a partner in the FSLH Foundation’s annual $100,000 Miracle Home Makeover that benefits the Children’s Miracle Network Hospital at FSLH Lewis earned his bachelor’s degree from SUNY Brockport

in Brockport. • Mary Malone McCarthy is founder and president of M3 Business Service Network in Clinton. She most recently served as senior vice president of Northland Communications, Inc. in Utica. McCarthy earned her bachelor’s degree from Wells College in Aurora. Mccarthy • Nancy Shaheen is a radiologist for Radiology Associates of New Hartford. Shaheen is a member of the staff at FSLH, Rome Memorial Hospital in Rome, and Community Memorial Hospital in Hamilton. Shaheen received her Shaheen bachelor’s and medical degrees from Northwestern University in Chicago, Ill.

Are you ready to kick smoking habit? Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare’s TriCounty Quits Tobacco Cessation Center in Utica offers the following advice for those wishing to quit smoking: • Make a plan: Decide when you’ll quit and what you’ll need, such as help, medication, support, etc. • Get yourself and your surroundings ready: Get rid of your cigarettes and ashtrays; stock up on gum and other things you enjoy. • Tell everyone: Line up your support system by telling your family, friends and coworkers and asking for their help. • Calculate how much money you’ll save by not buying cigarettes and plan to reward yourself. • Beware of the triggers that remind you of smoking and prepare for them; once you recognize your triggers, you can be ready or even avoid them. For information and support on quitting smoking, call the Tri-County Quits Tobacco Cessation Center of Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare at 315624-5458.

CNY Surgical opens practice in Utica Central New York Surgical, PC recently opened a surgical practice 2202 Genesee St., Utica. Dennis Blom specializes in advanced laparoscopic surgery; adrenal, esophageal and gastric disease; biliary tract; colon and rectal; hernia repair; pancreas and spleen. He also performs endoscopy, single-incision surgery and esophageal function testing. The office provides esophageal motility testing to evaluate swallowing disorders such as achalasia, and 24-hour ambulatory pH/impedance testing to evaluate gastroesophageal reflux disease. CNY Magazine has ranked Blom as one of the top three surgeons in Central New York. For more information, call 315-7320349 or visit www.centralnysurgical. com.

Insight House names employee of quarter Jeni Nezic was recently selected as Insight House employee of the quarter. Supervisors nominate employees of the quarter for their reliability, quality of work, initiative, professionalism and uniqueness of contribution. Nezic, of Utica, is a substance Nezic abuse counselor in the outpatient department, and specializes in group, individual and family clinical services. She joined Insight House in Utica in 2010.

County employs tablets in home lead inspections The Oneida County lead poisoning prevention field staff is employing tablet computers to increase both the efficiency and effectiveness of their home inspection activities. The LPP staff is charged with inspecting houses to protect children from the hazards of lead-based paint. According to Cathe Bullwinkle, quality improvement coordinator for the Oneida County Health Department, the tablet computers’ integrated cameras make it possible to take digital photographs and floor-plan sketches on site and upload them. The tablet computers allow supervisors to view violations in real time and make recommendations for additional inspection areas or sampling, and improve communications between supervisors and field staff. “Since this technology reduces the number of times staff need to return to the office between inspections, there is a savings in mileage costs and travel time as well, freeing up staff for ad-

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • February 2013

ditional inspections,” Bullwinkle said. “With each additional house we are able to inspect, children in our community are spared the permanent brain damage and learning disabilities associated with lead poisoning and Oneida County taxpayers are saved the costs associated with long-term health care, early intervention and social services.” The tablet computers were purchased with funding provided by the New York State Department of Health’s lead primary prevention grant. For more information on lead poisoning prevention or the Oneida County LPP program, visit the Oneida County website at ocgov.net/oneida/ health or call 315-266-6147.

Chestnut Commons offers extended ofﬁce hours Chestnut Commons Physical & Occupational Therapy, 107 E. Chestnut St., Rome, now has extended hours. The facility will open earlier five days per week and remain open later four days per week to offer patients more options for their physical therapy appointments. The new hours are 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Thursday, and 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Fridays. “We decided to expand our hours in response to feedback we received from our patients,” said Rena Hughes, assistant director of rehabilitation therapy services. With over 6,000 square feet, Chestnut Commons Physical & Occupational Therapy is one of the largest outpatient rehabilitation centers in the area and offers state-of-the-art strength training machines and therapeutic devices. For more information, call 3377952.

MMRL to receive economic development grant funds The Cardiac Research Institute at Masonic Medical Research Laboratory in Utica recently established a pioneering organ bioengineering program that was selected as a priority project by the Mohawk Valley Regional Economic Development Council. The REDC is part of a new program supported by funds from the Empire State Development Corp. that has been enthusiastically endorsed by Governor Andrew Cuomo. The $300,000 matching grant received by the MMRL is part of an overall strategy to jumpstart and create jobs in the Mohawk Valley and the state. “This grant opportunity will enable us to foster global collaborations among scientists and physicians and attract additional science, technology and engineering talent to the Mohawk Valley, creating a more technically competent future workforce in our region,” said MMRL executive director and principal investigator of the grant, Dr. Charles Antzelevitch. Organ bioengineering will enhance and complement the ongoing research studies of the MMRL’s Stem Cell Center. For more information about the MMRL, visit www.mmrl.edu or call 315-735-2217.

Winter wonderland Don’t leave fitness out in the cold By Barbara Pierce

t’s easy to slack off on getting exercise during the winter. It’s hard to trudge through the snow, and it’s so cold. Who wants to pile on all those layers of clothing, boots, and gloves? And still freeze out there. “I’ll wait until tomorrow,” we say; “It probably won’t be as cold.” But, tomorrow is just as cold. We wait another day, then another. Each day we put it off, it becomes easier to put it off. Lack of physical activity leads to a lack of energy. We feel listless and we don’t have energy; we don’t have enough energy to tackle the challenge of going out there. It becomes a vicious cycle: The listlessness we feel dissuades us from doing any physical activity, so the vicious cycle continues. So how important is working out year-round? And what are the risks if you stop for the winter? Not being physically active is more dangerous to your health than smoking. One out of four deaths of people over the age of 35 were caused by a lack of physical activity, according to a recent study by the University of Hong Kong. You will pay for even a few months

without any exercise. Your visceral fat—the fat that accumulates around the organs inside your belly—will increase. In six months without exercise, your visceral fat will increase by nearly 9 percent. Increased levels of visceral fat are linked to cardiovascular disease, insulin resistance, and other metabolic syndromes. A sedentary lifestyle, even for a few months, is very dangerous. Physical activity will help you sleep better, will control your weight, improve your resistance to fight infections, and lower your risk of cancer,

The Balanced Body

the elderly.

heart disease and diabetes. And physical activity allows your brain to work better and smarter. Physical activity releases endorphins, the chemicals that give you a sense of well-being. Physical activity relieves depression and anxiety. It enhances your ability to concentrate and focus. Regular physical activity has been show to delay cognitive deterioration in

Show me how

How to stay physically active when it’s snowing outside and so cold? Choose to work out outside at least one day a week, recommends MyDailyMoment.com. Revolutionary materials, like moisture-wicking fabrics, make it easy to stay warm and comfortable when you layer them. Before you go outside, run up and down stairs, or bounce in place for a few minutes. This will get your heart going and make the cold more bearable.

Bring something warm to sip that will also keep you hydrated along the way. Green tea offers flavor and a boost of energy if you choose to go caffeinated. A workout buddy can be essential to motivation at this time of year. When you’re held accountable, it’s harder to make excuses not to work out. Before you go out the door, begin your workout inside by stretching your muscles. “I make it a point to walk outside every day,” said Patti Delano of Old Forge. “I make sure I dress warmly and take the dog out for a walk.” Delano, owner of Patti’s Paper Craft Studio in Old Forge, notices many of her neighbors also walk their dogs regularly, despite the cold and snow. Cross-country skiing is Delano’s passion to get exercise in the winter. “I do it as often as I can,” she added. Running a business and being a wife and mother does not give her as much opportunity for cross-country skiing as she would like. There’s nothing better than crosscountry skiing to burn a lot of calories in a little time. Snowshoeing and winter hiking are also challenging sports and can seem more like an adventure than a workout.

By Deb Dittner

Alternative approach for cold, flu season

s I am sure you are all well aware, cold and flu season has hit our area with a vengeance. Many have reported symptoms of sudden onset, symptoms lasting a number of weeks, not being able to “shake it”, to feeling completely exhausted and rundown. Some of you may be in the midst of all of this illness while others may have been lucky enough to escape it all. Either way, there are a number of remedies that may help with the home treatment and prevention of cold and flu symptoms. Everyone is an individual. So what may work and help one may not be as effective or beneficial for another. Listen to your body and relief will be on its way. • Vitamin C: Some absolutely swear by vitamin C usage. Many studies have been done on the antioxidant effects of vitamin C and the common cold, some showing benefit and others having no effect. Vitamin C has been shown that it can decrease the length and severity of symptoms of the common cold, may increase air flow and decrease inflammation, and help in the prevention of illness during times of stress. Taking vitamin C in doses of 1,000 to 3,000 milligrams at the first signs of cold or flu symptoms may be helpful. And don’t forget added vitamin C from food sources such as clementine, apple,

kiwi, carrot, sweet potato and strawberry for example. Vitamin C is vital in keeping blood vessels strong, regulating blood pressure, and may help in reducing LDL cholesterol while increasing HDL. • Meditation: Mindful meditation has been shown to decrease the number and severity of cold and flu symptoms by as much as 60 percent. Meditation reduces stress and negativity thus allowing the body to boost immunity. Breath work and focusing on the “now” versus worry may help. Meditating on compassion has also been shown to help create a Dittner state of happiness. • Movement: Those who move for approximately 30 minutes most days of the week have shown to have fewer numbers of colds as this helps to decrease stress and boost immunity. So get out in the fresh, brisk air and walk, jog or run. You’ll also get your dose of vitamin D (another immune booster, decreases inflammation, and helps build strong bones). If you are already feeling under the weather, light movement may actually help you to feel better but remember not to overdo. • Honey: A teaspoon of local raw

honey with a drop or two of Young Living Essential Oil of Thieves (with its anti-viral, antiseptic properties) swirled into it may help to soothe the throat and decrease the cough. Recommended approximately 30 minutes before bedtime, it will help to ensure a quiet and restful night’s sleep. • Probiotics: The gut is home to our immune cells while “friendly” bacteria keep it all working efficiently. Common types of helpful bacteria are lactic acid, bulgaricus, and bifodo bacteria. A balanced digestive system can boost immunity, help lower blood pressure and cholesterol, and fight urinary tract and yeast infections. Consuming yogurt, kefir, or kimchi on a regular basis or adding a probiotic supplement may be beneficial. • Zinc: Started within 24 hours of cold and flu symptoms, zinc has been shown to decrease nasal congestion and cough. It also may shorten the length of symptoms. Look for zinc in oysters, eggs, pumpkin seeds, yogurt, beans and nuts. • Echinacea: Also started at the first signs and symptoms of cold and flu, Echinacea purpurea has been shown to decrease the length and severity of illness. Echinacea helps to

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boost the immune system, increase resistance to infection, and heal wounds. It should not be taken for more than two to six weeks at a time, and should not be used by those with an autoimmune condition. This herb is related to the ragweed family so those with an allergy should use with caution. • Sleep: Sleep will boost the immune system, aid in weight loss, improve memory and decrease stressrelated disorders such as heart disease and depression. Try to achieve seven to nine hours nightly. Ways to ensure good sleep is to have complete darkness in the bedroom, keep an average temperature of 70 degrees Fahrenheit, avoid the use of electronic devices (TV, computer, iPhone/iPad) at least one half hour prior to bed time, avoid eating bedtime snacks, and establish a bedtime routine which helps to release the day’s stress. If you do come under the weather, stay home. Trying to go to work feeling terrible will not aid in your recovery and will assist in spreading germs to coworkers. Trying to “push it” may cause your symptoms to worsen and increase the length of your illness. • Deborah Dittner is a family nurse practitioner who specializes in Reiki and holistic nutrition. You can visit her website at www.the-balanced-body.com.

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

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Visit our Rome Medical Practice Specialists at the Griffiss Business & Technology Park

Neurology Suite 100 .................. 356-7380 Glady Jacob, MD

Rome Pulmonary & Sleep Medicine Suite 300 .................. 337-3071 Anwar Wassel, MD Laura Carnevale, FNP

Rome Surgical Specialists Suite 300 .................. 337-0202 Shuban Moza, MD Beth Bulawa, MD David Kulick, MD

Upstate Urology Suite 300 ................. 356-7390 Gennady Bratslavsky, MD Rakesh Khanna, MD Dmitriy Nikolavsky, MD Jonathan Riddell, MD Oleg Shapiro, MD J.C. Trussell, MD Page 20

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IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • February 2013

267 Hill Road, Rome

Our offices can be accessed by turning on to Avery Lane, located between the traffic circle and Americu. Rome Medical Practice is an affiliate of