January 9, 2015
MEDICAL UNIVERSITY of SOUTH CAROLINA
Transplant patient rides pink fire truck, beats cancer By J. Ryne Danielson Public Relations In August, then 21-month-old Lachlan Tannery was diagnosed with juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia, an extremely rare cancer of the blood. “It’s literally one-in-a-million,” said Michelle Hudspeth, M.D., director of MUSC’s Pediatric Blood and Bone Marrow Transplant program. “But this is also a onein-a-million family.” Lachlan’s parents, Mary and Jason Tannery of Seneca, traveled to MUSC so that Lachlan could be part of a clinical trial for this uncommon form of leukemia. He ultimately needed a bone marrow transplant. When no one in the family ended up being a match, the Tannery family partnered with Be the Match, a non-profit organization operated by the National Marrow Donor Program, to promote a national donor drive. “It’s pretty remarkable,” Hudspeth said. “Despite having three young children — Lachlan, his twin brother Calhoun, and younger brother Owen — they’re not only focused on curing their child, but on helping others as well.” Lachlan eventually found a perfect match. His transplant took place on Nov. 20, just a day before his second birthday. Shortly after his transplant, Lachlan developed a complication called venoocclusive hepatic disease, an obstruction of veins in the liver, which can cause organ failure. Thanks to another clinical trial, Lachlan was able to receive a new drug, Defibrotide, which has not yet been approved by the FDA. “He’s doing very well now,” Hudspeth said. Lachlan was discharged from the hospital on Jan. 7. Because Lachlan is required to stay within 30 minutes of the hospital for the first hundred days after his transplant, the family is renting a house nearby. To drive Lachlan to his temporary home, the North Charleston Fire Department volunteered the use of its pink fire truck, which is dedicated to raising awareness of the fight against cancer.
Vol. 33, No. 19
Inside Sleep ApneA pAtientS
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Sleep disorder patients are benefitting from a new impantible device.
photos by J. Ryne Danielson, Public Relations
Transplant patient Lachlan Tannery, fifth from left, along with his family, doctors and nurses from MUSC and firefighters from North Charleston Fire Department. After being discharged from the hospital, Lachlan got a ride home on NCFD’s pink fire truck. Deputy Chief Butch Barfield came to the Horseshoe to see Lachlan off. “Anytime the North Charleston Fire Department can bring some sunshine to a dark situation, they jump,” he said. “These guys look for opportunities to put a smile on anybody’s face.” Barfield’s wife, Laurie, helped to organize the event. “The firefighters did all the work,” she said. “I just made the call yesterday, and they made it happen.” “It’s been difficult, obviously,” Mary Tannery said. “But we’ve been fortunate to be surrounded by amazing people. The nurses, the techs, the doctors — everyone has made a terrible situation into, actually, a really lovely one. The two months we’ve been here have gone by so quickly, and it’s all due to the people we’ve been surrounded by and the facility we’ve been in.” For more information about MUSC’s Pediatric Blood and Bone Marrow Transplant program, visit http://www. musckids.org/transplantcenter/bmt/.
MAyOr GetS A Kidney
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Manning mayor became a living donor recipient with help from others.
Lachlan Tannery, 2, is all smiles in the arms of Dr. Michelle Hudspeth, director of MUSC’s Pediatric Blood and Bone Marrow Transplant Program. Tannery received a bone marrow transplant in November.
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Boeing donation
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Meet Steve
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Humanitas
t h e C AtA ly S t Online http://www. musc.edu/ catalyst
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Applause Program The following employees received recognition through the Applause Program for going the extra mile: Medical Center
Connie Canaday, Hematology/Oncology; Lawanda Anderson, Revenue Cycle Operations; Natalie Murphy, 7 West; Darian Epps, Meduflex Team; Lisa Dooley, Radiology; Arlene Frances, Scheduling; Michelle Vareltzis, Radiology; Ashley Ryan, Radiation Oncology; Linda Sauls, Radiation Oncology; Chris Early, Children’s Services; Angela Righi, PACU; Peter White, Residents Orthopaedic Surgery; Cathy Watson, Meduflex Team; Heidi Alton, PACU; Haley Pollack, PACU; Lauren Hill, PACU; Sally Key, ART 6 West; Caitlin Molony, ART 6 West; Shalonda Barker, ART 6 East; Eve Sparger, ART 6 East; Zach Halewood, ART 6 East; Becky Hank, ART 6 West; Karen Shire, ART 6 West; Misty Kahmke, ART 6 West; Dorothy Weiss, ART 6 West; Maude Smith, ART 6 West; Erika Barclay, ART 6 West; Tiffany Bailey, ART 6 West; Catherine Watson, ART 6 West; Jessica Wiegel, ART 6 West; Norma Angosta, Environmental Services; Tammy Hamilton, Environmental Services; Karen McWhite, Guest Services; Julia Johnson, Acute Directional Unit; Kathy Washington, Dietetic Services; Stephanie Frazier, Adult Emergency Room; Lynn Williams, HVC; Shane Cox, Radiology; Jessica Johnson, 10 West; George Waring, Magill Vision Center; Rachael Ward, 7 West; Angelieka Gethers, Dietetic Services; Carolyn Keller, 8 West; Jennifer Keevern, Physical Therapy; Paris Wiggins, ART CTICU; Brandy Olson, Guest Services; Savannah Keaton, 9 East;
Editorial of fice MUSC Office of Public Relations 135 Cannon Street, Suite 403C, Charleston, SC 29425. 843-792-4107 Fax: 843-792-6723 Editor: Cindy Abole
catalyst@musc.edu Catalyst staff: Mikie Hayes, hayesmi@musc.edu Dawn Brazell, brazell@musc.edu J. Ryne Danielson, daniejer@musc.edu Helen Adams, adamshel@musc.edu Sarah Pack, packsa@musc.edu Jeff Watkins, watkinsj@musc.edu
Dawn Taylor, ART CTICU; Shaniqua Fludd, ART CTICU; Shatora Williams, GI Clinic; Kathryn Sartini, 8 West; Ashley Green, Pediatrics – Neonatology; Jessica Nesbit, Women’s Health Faculty Practice; Debbie Cepeda, Revenue Cycle Operations; Brittany Matthews, ART 6 West; Brenda Brown, HVC; Ben Sherwood, Hemapheresis; Charity Berg, ART 6 West; Justin Ravenel, Guest Services; Zach Halewood, ART 6 East; Sarah Brown, ART 6 East; Jaime Hayes, ART 4 East; Peggy Riggs, HVC; Alyson Howard, ART 4 East; Carly Manecke, 8 East; Susan Riddle, Sleep Lab; Melvena Nelson, Environmental Services; Chris Collette, 10 West; Carrie Storm, 6 West; Brittney Whaley, 6 West; Michele Farthing, Clinical Effectiveness; Daniel Park, Pediatrics -Emergency Medicine; Caryn Phillips, Pediatric ED; Michelle Turner, Women’s Services; Brenda Brown, Women’s Services; James Pinckney, Storm Eye Goose Creek; and Martha Krauss, Women’s Care – Lactation Services University
Connie Canaday, Hematology/ Oncology; Monica Eberhardt, Pediatric Dentistry/Orthodontics; Lindley Evans, College of Medicine/Dean’s Office; Steven Frames, College of Dental Medicine/Oral Rehabilitation; Ashley Green, Pediatrics/Neonatology; Cephus Simmons, Radiology; and Alvinia
The Catalyst is published once a week. Paid adver tisements, which do not represent an endorsement by MUSC or the State of South Carolina, are handled by Island Publications Inc., Moultrie News, 134 Columbus St., Charleston, S.C., 843-849-1778 or 843-958-7490. E-mail: sales@moultrienews.com.
Nominations being accepted for awards A call for nominations is under way to all faculty and students. The purpose of these awards is to recognize members of the MUSC faculty who have made outstanding contributions to the university through teaching. Awards may be given from the Clinical/Professional (Educator-Mentor); Scholarship/Academic (EducatorMentor); Educator-Lecturer; and Developing Teacher. Any regular, full-time faculty member who holds an academic rank
of instructor or higher in a college or department of MUSC who has not been the recipient of this award within the previous three years is eligible for nomination. The deadline for nominations is Jan. 23. Nominees will be invited to submit supporting materials, and a committee of faculty and students will select the recipients for this year’s awards. Forms may be found at http://www. carc.musc.edu/nomination/. For information, call 792-2228.
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Boeing invests in new Children’s Hospital and Pavillion Staff Report Boeing announced a $5 million investment during a Dec. 16 ceremony at Jerry Zucker Middle School in North Charleston, demonstrating a major commitment to significantly improving children’s health and wellness as part of MUSC’s efforts to build a new children’s hospital on the Charleston peninsula. This investment will be paid in installments over the next five years. Boeing also provided the Lowcountry Food bank with a $100,000 investment during the ceremony. “Boeing and its teammates are proud to present these investment grants to MUSC and the Lowcountry Food Bank and of the positive impact they will have on thousands of children in South Carolina,” said Ray Conner, Boeing Commercial Airplanes president and CEO, who presented the grant on behalf of the company. “Overall childhood health, including proper nutrition and healthy eating habits at a young age, is vital for a child’s physical and cognitive development, preparing them for success in school and life.” Following the investment announcements, volunteers from Boeing, MUSC and the school joined the Food Bank in distributing 10,000 pounds of fresh produce to all 550 students at the school. “We are so pleased that our relationship with Boeing
photo by Alan Marts, Boeing
MUSC president Dr. David Cole spoke at the December ceremony announcing Boeing’s investment to help build the new MUSC Children’s Hospital.
has resulted in this generous gift, and we are so grateful for their support and partnership,” said David J. Cole, M.D., FACS, MUSC president. “Boeing is making a real impact when it comes to providing for the future of children’s wellness in South Carolina, and we cannot thank them enough for this incredible level of investment.” From 2010 to 2013, Boeing provided nearly $3.75 million in grant funding to support the Boeing Center for Children’s Wellness at MUSC Children’s Hospital. The Center’s School Wellness Program costs $2.44 per child, per year, and received the 2012 Community Award by the South Carolina Medical Association. “We recognize the responsibility we have here in South Carolina, not only to produce and deliver 787 Dreamliners to customers all over the world but to be good corporate citizens and help improve the lives of our friends and neighbors across the state,” said Jack Jones, Boeing South Carolina (BSC) vice president and general manager. “We’re fortunate to be backed every day by the generosity of our more than 7,500 BSC teammates who never cease to amaze me in how they give of both their time and resources.” For information about MUSC’s Boeing Center for Children’s Wellness, visit http://academicdepartments. musc.edu/leanteam.
AnnuAl teddy BeAr dAy At MuSC The Medical University Women’s Club members Charlotte Gillespie, from left, Jane Locke, Julie Parrish, Catherine Cummins, Alisa Swift, Laura Patrick, Nancy Pellegrini and Judy Diehl delivered 200-plus teddy bears to patients at the university hospital Oct. 9. Each year, the club coordinates their efforts for the Todd Carter Memorial Teddy Bear Day honoring the memory of Todd Carter, son of Dr. James and Debbie Carter. Todd died in a car accident in 2001. A favorite project among MUWC members, the group collects teddy bears throughout the year and delivers them as a gesture to bring smiles and lift spirits. Not pictured is Jenny Reves. Read more about MUWC projects or events at http:// academicdepartments.musc.edu/ womensclub. photo by Laura Patrick, MUSC Women’s Club
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New treatment lets apnea patients get good night’s sleep By helen aDams Public Relations
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ome people say that life ends when you stop dreaming. Camden resident Thomas Rose didn’t die, but he was pretty miserable. “I hadn’t had a dream probably since last year because I couldn’t get in REM sleep,” the financial advisor said. REM stands for rapid eye movement, the sleep phase during which most dreaming takes place. Rose was getting so little oxygen when he tried to sleep that a doctor told him it could cause a stroke. “I could hardly perform my daily activities.” Healthy sleepers go through several phases during the night. Rose’s ability to cycle through those stages was affected by his obstructive sleep apnea. His upper airway muscles became too relaxed when he slept and failed to keep his airway open. Obstructive sleep apnea is a common disorder that can cause loud snoring, daytime sleepiness, sleep disturbance, impaired quality of life and an increased risk of heart disease and car accidents, according to M. Boyd Gillespie, M.D. He directs the Snoring and Sleep Apnea Center at MUSC. Gillespie decided Rose was a good candidate to become the first person in the state (outside of a clinical trial) to receive a new device called the Inspire Upper Airway Stimulation System. It’s a small pacemaker-like device inserted
under the skin of the chest. An electrode connects to one of the major nerves that control the upper airway muscles and stimulates it to control tongue movement, keeping Rose’s airway open. He has a hand-held remote control to activate the device before going to sleep. A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found it dramatically reduced the severity of sleep apnea problems, including snoring. Gillespie was an author of the study. Rose said he was nervous about being the first person in South Carolina outside of a clinical trial to try the device. “But I was so worn out from not being able to get any sleep, in a way I was looking forward to it.” Rose had to wait a few weeks after the device was implanted for his surgical wounds to heal before the doctor could activate it. Once he did, Rose said the fog that had settled in his mind started to lift. “Since I have this new Inspire device, I’m getting a good night’s sleep,” Rose said. “I don’t dream every night, but I started getting enough sleep.” Apnea affects the ability to remember dreams. Gillespie said the idea of stimulating the upper airway muscles to stay open during sleep has been around for more than 20 years. But it wasn’t until recently that the technology behind the Inspire device became available. In the study he described in the New England Journal of Medicine, about 85 percent of the 126 patients implanted
Inspire Upper Airway Stimulation therapy features an implanted neurostimulation device that provides an effective treatment for sleep apnea patients.
Top photo: Dr. M. Boyd Gillespie, with MUSC’s Snoring and Sleep Apnea Center, performed the first Inspire Upper Airway Stimulation device implantation in South Carolina after it was approved by the Food and Drug Administration. Left photo: Sleep Apnea patient Thomas Rose, who is from Camden, is today getting a good night’s sleep thanks to the Inspire System. photos by Alison Padlan Gillette, OtolaryngologyHead & Neck Surgery
with the device continued to use it nightly as their main form of sleep apnea treatment. He said the surgery and device have an excellent safety record and received full Food and Drug Administration approval in April 2014. The MUSC Department of Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery offers the Inspire Upper Airway Stimulation device to qualified patients with obstructive sleep apnea. Rose sent some friends to see Gillespie to find out if the device would work for them. “I know a lot of people who have bad sleep apnea who are having the same problems I’ve had,” Rose said. “This Inspire has changed my life.”
Center for Global Health Trainee Travel Grants The Center for Global Health is pleased to announce opportunities for international travel grants in low and middle-income countries. Grants are available up to $2,000 each for MUSC students and resident trainees. Funds must be used within 12 months from the date of the award. The goal of the awards is to assist recipients in furthering global health research or training projects in these specific countries. The deadline for submission is Feb. 3. Visit http://globalhealth.musc. edu/trainee-global-health-travel-grant.
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Meet Steve
Steve Rublee Department Mental Health and Neuroscience Service Lines How are you changing what’s possible at MUSC By leading a team of dedicated professionals who are committed to providing the highest quality care to our patients How long at MUSC Five years Children Will, 26 and Matt, 24 Last book read John le Carre’s “A Most Wanted Man” Favorite local restaurant The Fat Hen Something people don’t know about you I briefly made the Guiness Book of World Records for playing in the world’s largest guitar ensemble in Luckenback, Texas. Favorite quote “He who hesitates is lost.” — not really attributable to a specific person, but more likely a misquotation from Joseph Addison’s play, “Cato”.
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MUSC employees donate Beloved former MUSC more than $165k to TUW President to be remembered The Office of Development would like to thank all the employees who donated to the 2014 Trident United Way Campaign. More than $165,000 was donated by MUSC employees. The money will help non-profit programs throughout the Lowcountry in their efforts to promote better health, education and financial stability. Employees donating up to $999 per person are: Anne Abel, Deborah Adams, Mary Albano, Mary Allen, Elaine Amella, Richard Anderson, Lucy Arnold, Joanne Bainer, Susan Barnhart, Gilbert Boissonneault, Timothy Brabbs, Andrew Bracken, Yvonne Bradley, Karen Bridgeman, Robert Brooks, Faith Brownlee, Teresa Buckworth, Faith Butler, Frank Clark Sr., Kristy Collins, Brian Conner, Betty Craig, Melissa Cunningham, Nancy Curry, James Davis, Deborah Deas-Nesmith, Anna Delamar, Catherine Dillon, Becky Dornisch, Arly Douglass, Mary Dubis, Valerie DurkalskiMauldin, Tina Dvoren Baker, Dallas Ellis, Amy Ferguson, Mary Fischer, Edward Fonvielle, Joyce Foster, Jeanine Gage, Christine Gainer, Lee Gardner, Barbara Garrett, Shelley Garvin, Frances Glanville, Kristin Goad, Karen Goff, Leonie Gordon, Elizabeth Gossen, Joan Graesch, Brett Green, Carlton Hawkes, Pamela Helms, Karen Hiott, Cynthia Hipp, Patricia Iverson, Richard Jablonski, Bonnie Jones, Jane Kelley, Patrick Kelley, Kelly Kercher, Paula Kersey, Jade Knapp, Mary Koval, Daniel Lackland, Lisa Langdale, Michelle Lattimore, Morris Lent, Christine Lewis, Susan Lucas, Nancy Macaulay, Leigh Manzi, Collette Mayes, Debbie McCravy, Marshall McFadden, Laura McGowen, Whitney McLuen, Rebecca Middleton, Vivian Mitchell, Jennifer Nall, Brad Neville, Stephanie Oberempt, Lauree Pearson, Jennifer Pierce, John Pigott, Michele Platts, Robert Poyer, Amanda Putney, Archie Reid, Deborah Reynolds, Robin Rose, Cynthia Rosenblatt, Naomi Sampson, Sharyn Sandstrom, Sherri Scott, Suzanne Scott, Richard Segal, Anbesaw Selassie, Hazel Shefton, Amy Shore, Cynthia
Smalls, Amanda Smith, Georgette Smith, Suzanne Smith, Terry Stanley, Sandra Streisel, Kellie Suggs, Vanessa Sullivan, Michael Taylor, Kenneth Thomas, Rebecca Timpner, Odessa Ussery, Karen Wager, Sally Webb, Holly Weekley, Susan Wetherholt, Margaret Wheat, Velma Wigfall, Marilyn Winkel, Suzanne Withers, Patrick Woster, Cynthia Wright and Rachael Zweigoron. Employees donating more than $1,000 per person are: David Adams, Thomas Anderson, Raymond Anton, Jane Ariail, Nicholas Batalis, John Bosso, Amy Bredlau, Patrick Cawley, Laurine Charles, Alexander Chessman, Philip Costello, Peter Cotton, Heather Craven, Fred Crawford, Bruce Crookes, Brenda Dorman, Bonnie Dumas, Juanita Epps, Evert Eriksson, Howard Evert, Samir Fakhry, William Fisher, Phyllis Floyd, David Garr, Marion Gillespie, Michael Gold, Richard Gross, Orin Guidry, James Harris, Langdon Hartsock, Peter Kalivas, Darcy Kalles, Michael Keels, Janice Key, Paul Lambert, Paulett Laroche, John Lazarchick, Henry Lemon, Walter Limehouse, Lucinda Magwood, Stephen Malley, Mary Mauldin, Jacqueline McGinty, William McKibbin, Bruce Mills, Lisa Montgomery, Stephanie Montgomery-Idema, David Neff, Lynne Nemeth, Edward Norcross, James Oates, Paul O’Brien, Steven Ornstein, Murray Passo, Steve Paterniti, Fletcher Penney, Tiombe Plair, David Ploth, Jennifer Poon, Alicia Privette, Shannon Ravenel, Michael Ricciardone, Charles Rittenberg, Concetta Riva, Eric Rovner, Michelle Rovner, Margaret Schachte, Marilyn Schaffner, Michael Schmidt, Sally Self, Richard Sillivant, William Simpson, Shawn Sluss, Helen Snow, David Soper, Maria Spampinato, Gail Stuart, Fred Tecklenburg, Bruce Usher, John Vena, Matthew Wain, Robert Warren, Dennis Watson, C. Wayne Weart, Gregory Weigle, Daynna Wolff, Catherine Wood and Peter Zwerner. For information about MUSC’s TUW campaign or to donate, call Whitney Mcluen at 792-1973.
On December 26, the Medical University lost a cherished leader and friend, President Emeritus James Burrows Edwards. Following a period of declining health, he passed away at the age of 87 at his home in Mount Pleasant. Dr. Edwards served as president of MUSC for 17 years. He is remembered for his vision, leadership Edwards style, and humor. He prided himself on recruiting the brightest and the best talent and never micromanaging. "God has blessed me with the ability to pick good people," he said. "I choose good people and then I'm smart enough to stay out of the way and let them do their jobs well." That attitude earned him widespread respect and devotion. He had countless admirers and touched the lives of so Volunteers needed for professionalism event at Burke High Volunteers are needed for a Professionalism Symposium at Burke High School from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Friday, April 10. This event represents a collaboration with Communities-inSchools of Charleston and MUSC’s EdLink allowing employees to serve as mentors. Repsonsibilities may vary, but the greatest need is to recruit individuals who can conduct mock interviews. For information or to volunteer, email Danielle Wright at wrightdo@musc.edu.
many. Administration, faculty and staff were deeply saddened by the news and felt as though they’d personally lost a member of their family. MUSC President David Cole said, “He had a personality that filled the room — truly he never met anyone that he did not like. From Day One, he made me feel respected, included, and at times like I quite possibly was his long-lost younger brother.” To celebrate this extraordinary leader, the Jan. 16 Catalyst will feature a special section commemorating his life and time at MUSC. Employees are invited to share a brief memory or sentiment about him for this special section. Email your entry to Catalyst@musc.edu by Noon, Monday, Jan. 12.
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MUSC offers new master’s degree in health informatics Staff Report Health care or technology professionals who have been searching for a way to transition their skill set to health informatics and big data analytics will now have a significant option for gaining or expanding the skills needed to address a national expertise shortage. “The impact of informatics is so central to the future of health care — it’s very far–reaching. This will be a growing field in the years to come, and if anything, these earlier projections of the workforce shortage, from the vantage point of the current day, underestimate the numbers now needed,” said Robert Steele, Ph.D., College of Health Professions Health Informatics division director. “Big data is impacting almost everything that determines what we know about our health. So, what do we do with all of this information? We are now becoming capable of spotting
disease patterns, evaluating efficacy and influencing health outcomes in a way that is unprecedented, but we need the highly skilled experts out there who can do this work.” Steele and his colleagues have calculated that between 1,100 and 2,800 full–time equivalent health IT professionals are currently needed in S.C. hospitals alone, not including other types of health care organizations. Enter the new MUSC Master of Science in Health Informatics program. Those applying for and seeking this degree will learn how to implement technology in health care and become fluent in project management and analytics of big data. The program has an executive online format to best accommodate working professionals with only a small on-campus component, and with a degree possible in just four semesters, or just over a year. Students can enroll full–or part–time. A recent national salary survey found
photo by Sarah Pack, Public Relations
these positions averaged $100,000 per year and often serve as gateways to significantly higher positions within health care administration. There are relatively few such programs available nationally, and a significant differentiator for the MUSC program is an emphasis on analytics competencies. “Our efforts are in line with a significant national agenda to create a Learning Health System that is digitally based, focused on quality and focused on efficacy. The timing to get into this career path is good because we need a skilled workforce who can keep up with
the technology, and they are in high demand,” Steele said. With more than 130 refereed publications, the recipient of numerous nationally competitive research grants and a previous appointment as the Head of Discipline and Chair of Health Informatics at The University of Sydney in Australia, Steele provides extensive research and education expertise in leading the new program at MUSC CHP. For more information about the new program, visit http:// academicdepartments.musc.edu/esl/em/ admissions/application/mshi/.
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Art brings creativity into focus By J. Ryne Danielson Public Relations Dangling from the railing of a footbridge — which spans the black water swamp of Cypress Gardens, near Moncks Corner, South Carolina — Ralitza Peneva spies something dangerous. Holding on with one arm, she struggles to get her camera in focus. “I didn’t have any fancy lenses,” she said. “So, I had to get down as close as I could.” Titled “Predator,” Peneva’s photograph of a baby alligator won the 2014 Humanitas Award for Creative Excellence in Photography and adorns the Peneva cover this year’s Humanitas literary magazine, published by the Medical University of South Carolina. Like many, Peneva came to medical school with a background in biology. Her goal was not to be a doctor, but an ornithologist. Her interest in photography, she said, was inspired by her high school biology teacher, William “Bill” Alexander, Ph.D. “Dr. Bill was a wildlife photographer,” Peneva said. “He was a big influence on me.” In college, Peneva began to rethink her career goals. “I realized I didn’t have this inward drive, like many of my professors did, to wake up at 4 a.m. and go study bats.” While studying abroad in Costa Rica, Peneva was stung by a neurotoxic ant. “It landed me in a tiny, rural hospital,” she said. It was then she started thinking seriously about medical school. “I just realized that I’d rather stay in there, hooked up to my IV, and hang out with those patients and those doctors, than go back out and look at the bats.” In her senior year at Duke University, Peneva took a class in photography in medicine with John Moses, M.D. His class, she said, was transformative. “It merged my love of photography with my budding interest in going to medical school.”
Peneva realized that medicine could both inspire her photography and photography could make her better at medicine. “Photography keeps you grounded,” she said. “For example, Dr. Moses was a practicing pediatrician who conducted a documentary study on teenage pregnancy. He could have sat in a classroom and taught us about pregnancy and what happens biologically. He could have just told us that teen pregnancy is hard. Instead, he showed us a photograph of this pregnant 16–year–old girl. And you could just see what she was going through from her facial expressions.” “Photographs are stories,” Peneva said. “You can learn a lot more about a patient or a population by seeing them than by reading about them in a text book.” Peneva believes the humanities are “indispensable” to the field of medicine. “If you want to be someone that works with humans,” she said, “I think that not taking time to explore your human side is a disservice to your patients. When a patient comes in, they want to know, not that you know all this science and that you've read all these books, but that you care about them as a person.” “I'm really glad Humanitas exists,” Peneva said. “It's easy to forget sometimes that everyone in your class is so much more than their stack of books.” Much more than his stack of books, Cameron Jones came to medical school by a non–traditional route: a degree in English from Clemson University. Jones is the winner of the 2014 Humanitas Award for Creative Excellence in Jones Written Word. The humanities are important to medicine, Jones believes, because they teach important skills that otherwise get overlooked in the hard sciences. “If you’re curious and you want to learn, you can pick up the physiology and the anatomy and the biochemistry,” he said. “What’s harder
HUMANITAS 2014
“Predator” was the winning photograph taken by medical student Rali Peneva at Cypress Gardens while she was dangling from a bridge.
Susan Linn’s “On the Road to Denali” is one of the photographs featured in Humanitas 2014. to teach is communication and critical thinking.” Jones admitted that it would have saved him some time had he realized he wanted to go to medical school earlier. However, he still would have pursued his undergraduate degree in English, he said, because many of the same skills he developed through reading and interpreting literature are still useful. “Reading a patient’s history is all about filtering what information is important. A patient history is just a story they’re telling us, about how they ended up in our office, how they got to this point. It’s certainly different from Hemingway — you’re reading it with a different goal in mind, obviously, but the same skills apply. Interpretation is critical. Small details can totally change your understanding of the story.” Jones seems to be adapting well to medical school and believes the same drive that inspired his love of literature still holds true. “My classes are definitely different,” he said. “But I think people
make more out of that difference than there really is. Curiosity drives both the humanities and the sciences. People read and write to explore the world and learn about themselves.” Ultimately, he said, that's what medical school is about too. When Jones saw a call for submissions from MUSC’s literary magazine, he knew he had to submit. “I'd be letting myself and my English background down if I didn't do it,” he said. Jones’ winning piece, titled “To Whom It May Concern,” is written as a series of letters from various citizens to their government, which is building an underground bunker to ensure the survival of humanity in the face of an impending asteroid impact. Each letter writer presents an absurd reason why he or she should be chosen to survive. “You have someone suggesting they have
See Humanitas on page 10
WAnt tO SuBMit? Humanitas is currently accepting submissions for 2015. MUSC employees, faculty and staff are eligible to submit their work in several categories: written word, photography, visual art and music. Deadline for submissions is Jan. 30. Submissions should include the title of the work in the description box. For all digital format submissions, the higher the resolution the better. People also may photograph their work. Submissions can be made online at http://academicdepartments.musc.edu/ humanities/humanitas.htm.
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Groundbreaking Mayor gets new kidney, new life By helen aDams Public Relations
K
nown as the People’s Mayor of Manning, Julia Nelson is used to helping people. But when she found out her kidney function had dropped to 2 percent, she had to get used to being in the unusual position of asking for help. “It’s been a little difficult, being on the receiving end of people wanting to give, wanting to do for me. That’s just not natural for me,” Nelson said. Nelson, who successfully campaigned to become the first female, African-American mayor of her city, had to launch a new campaign to trying to find a kidney donor. Once she did, she would head to the state’s only transplant center at MUSC. “When I started this, I’ll be honest – I didn’t think there was anybody out there that loved me enough to try to give me a kidney,” Nelson said.
Julia Nelson and friend Bobby Fleming before her kidney transplant at MUSC. Her polycystic kidney disease is an inherited disorder, so the donor would have to come from outside her family. Nelson was afraid her strong personality, the very thing that propelled her from what she called “the other side of the tracks” to the mayor’s office, would keep people from wanting to donate. She could wait on the national transplant list for a deceased donor, but it could take three to five years to find a match that way. If she could find a living donor, she could get the transplant immediately and possibly avoid dialysis. Nelson was reluctant to go public, but her
photos by Dawn Brazell, Public Relations
Manning mayor Julia Nelson needed a kidney and got one from a surprising source. nephrologist convinced her she needed to do it. That’s something that many people who need transplants find difficult, said MUSC transplant surgeon Kenneth Chavin, M.D., Ph.D. He and some colleagues are involved in a program to train people in how to tell their story. Once they do, he said, “more often than not, they’ll find someone who is touched by that and willing to Chavin donate.” MUSC is part of the National Kidney Registry’s living donor program, which enrolls people who are willing to donate a kidney and people who need transplants, then finds compatible pairs using a sophisticated algorithm. Nelson started telling her story in speeches and on Facebook, and the local newspaper carried reports on her progress. She struggled to keep her kidneys working as well as they could by going on a strict renal diet. She was surprised to find that she also had to struggle with something else: skepticism. “Some people thought I didn’t look sick,” Nelson said. “They felt I wasn’t even on the list for a transplant. I’m not sure where that came from. I think that was gossip in the diner.” Her nephrologist heard about that and decided to appear with the mayor when she spoke about her need for a transplant to erase any doubts. One woman who heard about the mayor’s quest had just undergone a physical change of her own. Arlene McCloud, an administrative assistant for the Sumter
County School District, lost 80 pounds last year. “I did it with a group of friends who wanted to be resilient to whatever comes into our lives,” McCloud said. McCloud had met the mayor but didn’t know her well enough to call her a friend. “I read her story last year on Facebook after Thanksgiving,” McCloud said. “I also saw an article about her in the daily paper. After reading the article, I did some research and looked on MUSC’s website about kidney transplants. I just felt compelled to donate.” McCloud’s weight loss made her healthy enough to be a good candidate. She was not a perfect match for Nelson, but agreed to donate a kidney in Nelson’s name. It would go to a patient in Indiana. In exchange, a relative of the Indiana patient would give a kidney to Nelson. “I was amazed that someone I do not know that well is willing to give an organ that’s going to save my life,” Nelson said. The women checked into MUSC in December 2014 for transplant surgery, visiting each other and growing closer as they prepared for the procedure. Nelson’s best friend Bobby Fleming was also there. The third-generation mortician has known Nelson since preschool. “She’s an inspiration,” Fleming said. “She has time for everyone. That’s one of our biggest issues – the fact that she does not take enough time for herself.” “I try to be the mayor for everybody,” Nelson said. “I try not to get involved in cliques or social status or anything like that. Whether it’s a family reunion or cookout, if I’m able to go, I go.”
See DonoR on page 12
10 The CaTalysT, January 9, 2015
Just “Let it Go” in 2015
Wellness Events Most of us are very familiar with q Take the Monthly the song, “Let it Go” from last year’s Mindful Challenge and Disney movie “Frozen,” even without be eligible for prizes by young children in the family singing completing a short survey and playing it non-stop for months. at the beginning and For those few who have not had end of the month. One the pleasure of seeing this movie, one employee will be featured of the characters, Elsa, lives in fear of in our “Spotlight on her magical powers, loses control and Wellness” column in unintentionally hurts the people she The Catalyst. loves. The song is about letting go of q Employee Fitness that fear and breaking from her past Series Class — Piloxing which held her captive. Susan Johnson from 12:15 to 1245 In much the same way, we all let p.m., Wednesday, Jan. our fears and insecurities keep us 21 at the Wellness Center; Piloxing is from realizing our true potential. an exciting fitness class that blends the This month, we would like to best of Pilates, boxing and dance into a challenge everyone to “Let it Go” and high-energy interval workout. To register, embrace a new way of thinking that email musc-empwell@musc.edu. empowers health, productivity and q Quit Smoking in 2015 — MUSC happiness. To begin, take the first is conducting a research study to see January Monthly Mindful Challenge if magnetic stimulation can reduce survey at http://tinyurl.com/lvvmgdw. nicotine crvings and make it easier to Many New Year’s resolutions stop smoking. Payment for participation involve letting go of a bad habit. To is provided and free parking is available. help those who have resolved to eat For information, contact Scott, 792healthier and lose weight, the MUSC 5560. Weight Management Center is offering q Chair massages — Free massages employees and their spouses/domestic partners 12 percent off our most popular are offered to employees midday on Wednesdays. Check broadcast messages weight management programs. for locations and times. Additionally, they offer MUSC/ q Farmers Markets — Fresh fruits and MUHA/MUSCP employee discounts vegetables are available from local with payroll deduction (in most cases farmers on Fridays from 7 a.m. to 3:30 over 12 months) with no down payment p.m. at the Horseshoe. or interest, including payroll deducting for a significant other. Program prices MUSC Urban Farm range from $150 to $2,450 (before q Midday Work and Learn — 12:15 to discounts) and again, all can be payroll 12:45 p.m., Tuesdays deducted. q Early Bird Maintenance — 7:30 to 8:30 For more information and to register, a.m. Wednesdays. Get your day started at visit www.MUSChealth.com/weight. the farm. In addition, MUSC Weight q Sunset Work and Learn — 4 to 5 p.m., Management Center and the Office Thursdays. of Health Promotion are teaming up For information, contact Dr. Susan to offer three free 30-minute Lunch & Johnson via email at johnsusa@musc.edu Learn educational sessions this month or Suzan Belan Whalen at whela@musc. from 12:15 to 12:45 in Colbert Library edu. Rm. EL118 (also available online). Session topics include: “Weight Loss Resolutions Done Right,” on Jan. 14; “Don’t Fall for Fad Diets” on Jan. 21; and “Starting an Effective Exercise Program,” on Jan. 28. Email musc-empwell@musc.edu to register for these Lunch & Learns (please indicate which one/s you plan to attend).
Health at work
humaniTas
Continued from Page Eight
a supply of tears that can be used as contact solution,” Jones said. “And you have someone else suggesting that they have a super power, but essentially they're just really annoying.” As those who have served as influences in his writing, Jones cites Gabriel Garcia Marquez, Jorge Luis Borges, Karen Russell and Michael Chabon. Jones' favorite authors tend to mix humor and sadness — the absurd and the mundane — in fantastical ways, a genre known as magical realism. “I still read voraciously,” he said, even though a busy class schedule sometimes makes that difficult. “It’s just a priority for me.” Both Peneva and Jones cite their professor, Steven Kubalak, Ph.D., from the Department of Regenerative Medicine and Cell Biology, as the person who encouraged them to submit to Humanitas. Kubalak is a faculty advisor for the publication. “Humanitas affords a wonderful opportunity for those who submit pieces to express themselves in very personal ways,” Kubalak said. “And it informs those who browse the literary journal about the wide variety of talent within the MUSC community.”
The CaTalysT, January 9, 2015 11
Recycle your Christmas tree, get free compost Some municipalities will pick up trees curbside, which will be taken to a Charleston County Environmental Management convenience center. Remove all décor such as lights, tinsel, ornaments, etc. Trees picked up curbside will be transported to the Bees Ferry Landing Compost Facility (West Ashley) to be ground and composted. Residents can drop off a tree at the Bees Ferry Landing facility until Jan. 10 and receive a free bag of compost. For information, call 720-7111.
interprOfeSSiOnAl reSeArCh dAy WinnerS
photos provided
First place winners of the Interprofessional Awards during the Perry V. Halushka 2014 MUSC Student Research Day included poster winner Christian Finetto, above center, and Chih-Ying Li, below center. Both winners are joined by Dr. Jeffrey Borckardt, left, assistant provost of Interprofessional Initiatives and Dr. Jacqueline McGinty, interim dean, College of Graduate Studies.
College of Nursing Grand Open House 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 24 You’re invited to come celebrate and take a look at the College of Nursing’s amazing renovation to its 60-year old building. Guided tours will be offered at 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. Free parking has been reserved at the MUSC President Street Garage. Please park on the second level or higher. RSVP to Caroline Schultz at schultzc@musc.edu. MUSC College of Nursing, 99 Jonathan Lucas Street
12 The CaTalysT, January 9, 2015
DonoR
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Living donor transplant recipient Julia Nelson holds up a phone image of her son. enlarge and do the work of two.
McCloud and Nelson became the 27th pair involved in MUSC’s Living Donor Program in 2014. Most donors, like McCloud, participated because someone they knew needed their help. Some, however, were Good Samaritan donors who gave their kidneys without knowing who would receive them. McCloud and Nelson have one good kidney each, and that’s enough, doctors say. A single kidney can
McCloud is back home in Sumter now, about a 20-minute drive from Manning. She’s taking it easy while her body heals. Nelson is home in Manning with her 14-year-old son, recovering as well. She said he’s a good caretaker who got her through the wait for a transplant. “He has a heart of gold. He brought me the water, the ginger ale and turned the TV channel. He kept me going - the idea that I want to teach him a little bit more, because I want him to be self sufficient.” Now, he’ll help her heal. So will Fleming, her longtime friend. “We fight like cats and dogs,” Fleming said in an interview before the transplant. “I told her I’m trying to keep you here because I don’t know what I’d do without you.” The mayor has big plans, including traveling to more conferences, which she couldn’t do while she was waiting for the operation. She also plans to spread the word about the importance of what McCloud and other donors have done. “I’d like for more people to be aware of the living donor program,” Nelson said. “I’ve always been a donor. It doesn’t make sense to let all of this stuff go in the ground and turn to dust. Give what you can while you’re living and especially once you pass. Give somebody else a good opportunity for a life.” For information about MUSC’s Living Donor Transplant Program, visit http://www.muschealth. org/transplant/services/living-donations/index.html.