October 21, 2011
MEDICAL UNIVERSITY of SOUTH CAROLINA
Vol. 30, No. 10
patiEnt findS: ‘No Shame to my Game’ BrEaSt rEconStruction
By Dawn Brazell Public Relations
C
ynde Brown sits tall, flipping back a strand of auburn hair. “There’s no shame to my game,” she said. She just described her recent double mastectomy and reconstruction involving one of the latest plastic surgery techniques called DIEP or deep inferior epigastric artery perforator flap. The procedure uses the fat and skin from the lower abdominal area to reconstruct the breasts by connecting the blood vessels from the abdomen to the blood vessels in the chest wall. She pats her flat stomach. “You can still wear the sexy stuff. You don’t let what the world thinks of you define your own image. Your breasts do not define you. You are defined by yourself – your personality, your soul. Take control of your life. Don’t sit there and wait and be a victim. If you can prevent it, take the most steps you can to prevent – whatever it may be.” Spoken as the spunky survivor that she is, Brown’s first troubles started at age 6 when she was diagnosed with autoimmune hepatitis. As a result her liver failed, and she received a liver transplant at
2
Cynde Brown’s daughter, shown in the photo in her hand, is one of her main motivators in getting the information she needs about all the latest treatments of breast cancer to make the right decisions.
MUSC at age 31 in 1998, just a year after having lost her mother. Still reeling from her losses, Brown hoped that other than her routine checkups, she was done with her surgeries. Unfortunately in 2005, her sister was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer. Brown
HEaltH carE rEform The annual Thomas A. Pitts Lectureship will focus on the Accountable Care Act.
eventually got her sister’s pathology reports and sought genetic testing in 2008, finding that she also tested positive for the BRCA 1 mutation. Harmful mutations in these genes produce a hereditary breastovarian cancer syndrome. As a preventative measure, Brown
6
had both ovaries removed. In 2010 an MRI revealed she had two masses in her left breast so she decided, given her BRCA 1 status and being immune suppressed for life as a transplant patient, to opt for a double mastectomy with
See Patient on page 8
As a destination center for breast reconstruction, MUSC is offering the latest in services and procedures, including the DIEP flap breast reconstruction (deep inferior epigastric perforator flap). It is one of the most advanced forms of breast reconstruction offered that relocates excess tissue from one area of the body. Donor sites for flap reconstruction often include the abdomen, buttocks, thigh, or back. The decision as to which type of flap to have is based on many factors including: the amount of tissue available at the donor site and the Renee breast size Maschinot’s desired by the patient, story as an placement areola and of scars, and 3-D nipple the patient’s tattoo artist, surgical page 10. history. Visit http://www. breastreconstructionof charleston.com for information on MUSC’s Advanced Breast Reconstuction Program.
Salivary EndoScopy
4
Dr. M. Boyd Gillespie uses small instruments to treat blockages.
5
Food Day 2011 Meet OJ
7
CALEA visit
READ THE CATALYST ONLINE - http://www.musc.edu/catalyst
2 the Catalyst, October 21, 2011
Health care reform law is focus of Pitts Lectureship
The theme for the Oct. 28 and 29 annual Thomas A. Pitts Memorial Lectureship will be “The Health Care Reform Law (PPACA): Controversies in Ethics and Policy.” Nationally well-known speakers will address health care reform to physicians, nurses and other MUSC health professionals. The speakers include: q Allan Brett, M.D., the Orlando Benedict Mayer Professor of Medicine at the University of South Carolina, where he is vice chair of the Department of Medicine and director of the Division of General Internal Medicine; q John Geyman, M.D., Professor Emeritus of Family Medicine at the University of Washington School of Medicine in Seattle, where he served as chairman of the Department of Family Medicine; q Ronald Hamowy, Ph.D., Professor Emeritus of Intellectual History at the University of Alberta and previously was assistant director of the History of Western Civilization Program at Stanford University; q Paul Menzel, Ph.D., professor of philosophy at the Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma, Wash., where he served as chair of the Department of Philosophy, dean of humanities and provost; q Robert Moffit, Ph.D., senior fellow in domestic and economic policy studies in the Center for Policy Innovation at the Heritage Foundation in Washington, D.C.; q Len Nichols, Ph.D., professor of health policy and the director of the Center for Health Policy Research and Ethics, at George Mason University. He founded and directed Health CEOs for Health Reform and has served as the director of the Health Policy Program at the New American Foundation; q James Taylor, Ph.D., associate professor of philosophy at the College of New Jersey, where he teaches medical ethics, ethical theory, action theory and metaphysical issues surrounding death; q Griffin Trotter, M.D., Ph.D., associate professor in the Center for Health Care Ethics and the Emergency
Editorial of fice MUSC Office of Public Relations 135 Cannon Street, Suite 403C, Charleston, SC 29425. 843-792-4107 Fax: 843-792-6723 Editor: Kim Draughn catalyst@musc.edu Catalyst staff: Cindy Abole, aboleca@musc.edu Dawn Brazell, brazell@musc.edu
“When the ACA was passed in March 2010, many people assumed that the health care system was reformed, but this is far from the reality.” Dr. Robert Sade Medicine Division of the Department of Surgery at Saint Louis University. He is director of clinical consultation and Residents’ Ethics Education at the Center for Health Care Ethics. The lectureship will be held Oct. 28 and 29 from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Oct. 28 and 8:30 a.m. to noon on Oct. 29 at the new MUSC Bioengineering Building, 73 President St., and there is free registration for
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.
MUSC faculty, staff and students. Robert Sade, M.D., professor of surgery and director of MUSC’s Institute of Human Values in Health Care, said the popularity of this annual conference has continued to grow since it began in 1994. “When the Accountable Care Act (ACA) was passed in March 2010, many people assumed that the health care system was reformed, but that is far from the reality.” According to Sade, the law was passed in great haste and is rife with inconsistencies and internal contradictions. “There is a great deal of public dissatisfaction with many of the law’s provisions, and this is reflected in Congressional debate. So the battle over health care reform rages on in Washington.” The conference is supported in part by a bequest from Thomas Antley Pitts II, M.D., 1893-1991, who served as a member of the MUSC board of trustees for 36 years and was its chair for 25 years. Half of his bequest was to be used for teaching medical ethics. Every year, a group of nationally and internationallyknown experts in a particular field of ethics and bioethics are brought to Charleston for the conference, which focuses on a specific theme. The series has been held annually since 1993. “The ethics that underlie opposing positions will influence the final form of the ACA as it is implemented over the next few years. This year’s Thomas Pitts Lectureship focuses on several of the ethical controversies that are currently under debate in Washington and elsewhere. The topics include the role of justice in providing health care, the place for consumer-driven health care and the morality of markets versus government systems. The speakers are among the leading advocates of national health care reform from the opposing perspectives of central planning and of market solutions,” Sade said. For information, visit http://www.values.musc.edu or contact Chris Rutigliano, 876-0177, or email rutiglia@ musc.edu.
Angel Tree applications accepted for 2011 holidays
Lowcountry families, especially MUSC employees, can find help during the holiday season through the Salvation Army’s Angel Tree Program. For the eighth year, MUSC has committed to supporting the MUSC Angel Tree Program to help needy Tricounty families during the holidays. Throughout October, the Salvation Army in Charleston County is seeking families and individuals needing assistance throughout the holidays. They sign up and register at the Salvation Army offices from Oct. 17 to Oct. 29. Eligible applicants can apply in
person at the Salvation Army’s West Ashley office, 2135 Ashley River Road. Applicants must bring the following documents to apply: official photo ID, social security cards for everyone in household, birth certificate or proof of guardianship for children, proof of income or October Food Stamp Letter, documents of major expenses or documented emergency and a clothing and shoe size list for children in the household. Applications are accepted from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Thursday. Call the Salvation Army at 763-9881.
the Catalyst, October 21, 2011 3
Harleston Village
Charming 2-story carriage house in historic downtown Charleston with private garden, heart of pine floors, updated marble kitchen and bath, large picture window and stunning staircase. 1 bedroom, 1.5 baths. 2 off-street parking spaces. Walk to fine restaurants, museums and parks.
Lisa Edwards
IP03-623916
Offered at $595,000 MLS# 1105732
843-860-4868 ledwards@carolinaone.com
Be ready to Howl and Party all Night! With Vampires and Spirits By Halloween’s Moonlight
NEW NEIGHBOR In your NEIGHBORHOOD PJ Johnson 2138 Ashley Phosphate Rd. Suite 101 North Charleston, SC 553-7272
Please join us for Bee Street Lofts’ Halloween Party
CM07-591506
LIKE A GOOD NEIGHBOR
Great Food, Spirits, Special Witches Brew, Dancing, DJ and Karaoke, Prizes for Best Costumes.
RSVP: Josephine Traina 843-793-4023 or Josephine@carolinaone.com
CM02-627683
All proceeds benefit Hollings Cancer Center $15.00 per person donation at the door
STATE FARM IS THERE.®
GC04-613952
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2011, 7:30PM TIL...
P rov i d i n g I n s u ra n c e a n d F i n a n c i a l S e r v i c e s
4 the Catalyst, October 21, 2011
Supporting farmers part of Food Day 2011 goal By Caroline Colquitt Dietetic Intern
According to the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (20032006 and 2007-2008), more than twothirds of adults in the nation are either overweight or obese. Obesity has become one of the nation’s top public health concerns as it has been well established that obese individuals are at an increased risk of death from stroke, heart disease and some cancers. One factor leading to the increased rise in obesity is the tendency for Americans to eat out more often, and by doing so, people are consuming large meals, high-fat foods, and placing convenience ahead of nutrition. These statistics are all too familiar to Sen. Tom Harkin, D-Iowa, and Rep. Rosa DeLauro, D-Connecticut, who are the honorary co-chairs for Food Day 2011. Food Day 2011, sponsored by the Center for Science in the Public Interest, is a nonprofit, people-powered effort to transform the American diet. The focus is to get Americans to “eat real” — meaning choosing to eat fresh food preferably from local, sustainable farms, and emphasizing the consumption of whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, and an overall healthy diet. These Food Day endeavors attempt to prevent the onset of obesity and other diet-related chronic diseases. The main goals of this year’s Food Day are: q Reduce diet-related disease by promoting safe, healthy foods q Support sustainable farms and limit subsidies to big agribusiness q Expand access to food and alleviate hunger
q Protect the environment and animals by reforming factory farms q Promote health by curbing junk-food marketing to children q Support fair conditions for food and farm workers Food Day 2011 is backed by an advisory board including physicians, politicians, authors, nutrition professionals and anti-hunger advocates; however, the most important advocate for Food Day is you. Supermarkets, restaurants, local officials, farmers, chefs, school lunch providers, parents, teachers, students, community organizers and others are encouraged to promote Food Day in their own individual ways. Thousands of events will take place in farmers markets, schools, churches, state capitals, and homes, bringing Americans together, to strive for “healthy, affordable food produced in a sustainable, humane way.” To get involved locally, join the Charleston Trident Dietetic Association (CTDA) as they host two events in honor of Food Day 2011: q Oct. 27: Wine Harvest with Les Dames D' Escoffier at Lowndes Grove Plantation, 6 - 9 p.m. q Oct. 29: Charleston Farmers Market Saturday celebrating Healthy Halloween To learn more about Food Day 2011, visit http://foodday.org/. The website lists information for how to find events, how to plan events of your own, ideas for healthy recipes, as well as a number of other resources. In addition, Ann Kulze, M.D., will host a free Eat Right for Life webinar in recognition of National Food Day from noon -1 p.m., Oct. 24. For more information, visit http://www. DrAnnWellness.com/FoodDay.cfm.
Nominations being accepted for honorary degree recipients Nominations are being accepted by the Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost for honorary degree recipients from MUSC. The honorary degrees will be awarded at the May 2012 Commencement. Nominations may be submitted of candidates, along with supporting
materials such as letters, articles or curriculum vitaes. The nominations should be forwarded to Marcia Higaki, Office of the Provost, Colcock Hall, 179 Ashley Avenue, MSC 002, higakimc@musc. edu, no later than Nov. 4. Nominations of MUSC alumni are generally discouraged.
Students connect classroom, printing services
University Press’ Gordon Knight, left, explains the four-color printing process using an offset press to Kingstree High School students. More than 30 high school juniors and seniors toured the North Charleston production facility on Oct. 5 to support the school’s new cross curriculum combining the graphic design and visual arts programs. MUSC’s press team organized four stations — two offset press areas, the digital color press and bindery sections — which allowed the students to tour and talk to experts around the print facility. For printing services and graphic design support, visit https:// universitypress.musc.edu.
To Medical Center Employees: MUSC has partnered with Trident United Way (TUW) throughout the years to improve lives in our community. Our MUSC TUW campaign chair this year is Dr. Lisa Saladin, dean of College of Health Professions, and our leadership chair is Dr. Terry Day, professor, Department of Ear, Nose and Throat, Head and Neck Surgery. Our goal is $200,000 and the campaign runs through November. Your help is needed to reach our goal. TUW provides support to more than 70 programs and agencies, including Smith funds that support the MUSC Foundation. Gifts can be made by payroll deduction (effective in January), check or credit card. You can make your gift online by going to http://www.musc.edu and clicking on the TUW link. For more information, contact Whitney McLuen at 792-1973 or mcluen@ musc.edu. Thank you for your support. W. Stuart Smith Vice President for Clinical Operations and Executive Director, MUSC Medical Center
the Catalyst, October 21, 2011 5
Meet OJ
Buy, Sell, Browse handsome consigned home furnishings
The Coleman Collection is located in the breezeway between the two sides of Northcutt Plaza, to the right of La Pizzeria (formerly Gymboree).
Visit www.edhunnicutt.com for free property searches, including foreclosures, YouTube videos, Current Market Stats and much more!
Orrin “OJ” McNeil Jr. Department Medical Center Volunteer & Guest Services Follow Us on Facebook: The Hunnicutt Real Estate Team
843.270.0292 ed@edhunnicutt.com
Unique talent I am a great bowler.
976 Houston Northcutt Blvd Suite I, Mount Pleasant 843-654-9046 • thecolemancollection.com facebook.com/thecolemancollection Open Monday through Saturday 10a.m. to 5:30p.m.
IP02-612342 1
Music in your CD player Taylor Swift
MANY ITEMS 40% OFF EVERY DAY, ALL DAY.
IP02-611689 1
How long at MUSC I have been volunteering for one year.
DOCK ON PRIVATE LAKE
Favorite restaurant Kickin’ Chicken
in the heart of Mount Pleasant NEW CONSTRUCTION
Who do you admire the most My mom, Dawn Heyward. She also works at MUSC.
by Dobson Homes $
What do you like most about your job I like meeting new people and giving them hugs.
MLS# 1112747
399,900
Laurel Lakes
Siblings One sister, Lexy A must-have in the pantry Cinnamon rolls Favorite radio station Z 93, Jamz
Pets I have a beagle named Sammy.
John Popelka | 843-270-7600 CM07-591496
IP04-608839
Words of advice Keep on trying.
6 the Catalyst, October 21, 2011
MUSC destination spot for salivary endoscopy
By Dawn Brazell Public Relations
It's good that M. Boyd Gillespie, M.D., loves fishing — the patience of waiting for just the right moment for a trout to connect to his line, the sudden rush of excitement when he knows it’s hooked. It’s a trait that translates well to his surgical work involving salivary endoscopy, a delicate ‘miniature’ surgery, using small instruments to get into the tiny opening of salivary glands to remove blockages that can cause patients swelling, discomfort and, in some cases, infection. He sometimes uses a tool called a basket catcher to trap a stone that is whirling around — a procedure not totally unlike hooking a fish. MUSC has become a training center for salivary endoscopy, a procedure that originated about 10 years ago in Germany, where the miniature instruments were first introduced. “I went to Germany and became trained in this. We acquired the equipment at MUSC and have become the nation’s leader in this treatment. We're currently the busiest endoscopic salivary gland center in the United States,” he said. “Anytime you have a service in your department that has a national reputation, it improves the profile of your department.” Gillespie, an otolaryngologist, has performed more than 200 procedures since he began doing salivary endoscopy at MUSC in 2008. Patients have come from across the nation — 16 different states — to have it done. Often finding him via the Internet, out-of-town patients usually combine consulting with him with a sight-seeing trip to Charleston, he said. MUSC also serves as a training site for salivary endoscopy with the Department of Otolarygology having provided training for 60 surgeons from institutions such as Johns Hopkins University to M.D. Anderson Cancer Center. Handson training in salivary endoscopy will be held at MUSC, Oct. 21-22, during the Head and Neck Oncology Summit Meeting in Charleston. Gillespie said he’s glad to see the technique’s use expand. Previously the only way to treat blockages in these glands was to surgically remove them, requiring an
Dr. M. Boyd Gillespie has performed more than 200 procedures since he began doing salivary endoscopy at MUSC in 2008. To see a video about the procedure, visit http://tinyurl.com/3hnb6wr.
“We’re currently the busiest endoscopic salivary gland center in the United States. Anytime you have a service in your department that has a national reputation, it improves the profile of your department.” Dr. M. Boyd Gillespie incision on the face and neck in a procedure that puts certain nerves at risk. Salivary gland blockage can result from multiple causes, including salivary stones, scar tissue, allergic disorders, auto-immune diseases and as a sideeffect from certain medications. The most common cause of obstruction is salivary stones that are thought to form from mucous sludge, which becomes mineralized with deposits of calcium hydroxylapatite. Blockages occur in about 1 in 10,000 people a year, which means about 30 cases a year in Charleston. Open surgery would be a two-to-three-hour operation and one to two days in the
hospital, whereas the endoscopy can be done in about an hour as an outpatient treatment. As long as a stone isn’t blocking a gland, people can be asymptomatic, but the stones tend to grow over time, he said. Saliva has calcium in it, which can deposit small grain-like layers. People with dry mouth and smokers seem to be more at risk to develop stones. For patients who do develop a blockage, it really can affect their quality of life. Gillespie, who has provided keynote talks in this area, said he’s glad to see advances being made as the instrumentation evolves, including a balloon-like device that will help stretch
and open ducts similar to what’s done with angioplasty for the heart. The ductal system is collapsible and mobile, which means it takes specialized training and precision instruments for a surgeon to navigate the bends and turns. He likes maintaining ties with colleagues at the salivary center at Erlangen-Nurnberg, Germany, with whom he publishes papers. He travels there in February to assist with training, and their center sends experts here for training in the fall. “It's a good collaboration.” For more information on the department, visit http://www. muschealth.com/ent.
The Catalyst, October 21, 2011 7
Accreditation team invites public comment
Seay Development REAL ESTATE BROKERAGE
Dental and Medical Real Estate Solutions I have personal ownership and professional experience in dental/medical real estate and can offer you an ownership perspective on any real estate decision.
David Seay
Broker in Charge Dental/Medical Real Estate Specialist Commercial/Residential david@seaydevelopment.com
843-364-6720 Direct
IP03-623906
Seay Development, LLC www.SeayDevelopment.com
Best Views of Charleston
Harbor View Restaurant and Lounge
Located atop the Holiday Inn Charleston Riverview Is Open for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Bring this coupon or show your MUSC ID Badge and receive a 10% discount on our lunch buffet Lowcountry Monday Two Steppin’ Tuesday Southwest Wednesday Taliano Thursday Expires Fish Friday 12/30/11
**Free Parking** Ask about our Diamond Club Membership for Happy Hour Specials
CM07-616589
A team of assessors from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies Inc. (CALEA), will arrive Oct. 22 to examine all aspects of MUSC Department of Public Safety’s policy and procedures, management, operations and support services. Verification by the team that the Department of Public Safety meets the commission’s state-ofthe-art standards is part of a voluntary process to maintain its current accredited status — a highly-prized recognition of law enforcement professional excellence, according to MUSC director of Public Safety’s Anthony Dunbar. As a part of the onsite assessment, agency employees and members of the community are invited to offer comments by calling 792-3014 between 1 and 3 p.m. on Oct. 24. Comments will be taken by the assessment team. Telephone comments are limited to 10 minutes and must address the agency’s ability to comply with CALEA’s standards. A copy of the standards is available at the MUSC Department of Public Safety, 101 Doughty St., Charleston S.C., 29425 or contact Debbie Underwood at 792-1986. Written comments may be sent to the CALEA Offices, 13575 Heathcote Blvd., Suite 320, Gainesville, Va., 20155 or email calea@calea.org.
Become a fan on Facebook to view the lunch buffet menu choices
Holiday Inn Charleston Riverview 843.556.7100 301 Savannah Highway
www.hiriverview.com
CM07-627188
8 the Catalyst, October 21, 2011
Patient Continued from Page One immediate reconstruction done on the same day at MUSC. The masses turned out to be benign, but Brown said it was the right decision because having the gene meant it was only a matter of time. There was a time not so long ago when Brown wouldn’t have had so many options. With advances in genetic testing and reconstruction procedures, including the availability of 3-D nipple tattooing, breast cancer survivors can take more proactive stances. Making those choices helps her feel empowered, a critical element for someone who has spent as much time in hospitals as she has, she said. She believes in doing her research and is intent on keeping a good attitude. “It comes from my mother, and it comes from faith. Just knowing that I can’t change what’s going to happen, the best thing I can do is deal with it the best way that I can. Who wants to be around someone who’s complaining all the time? I don’t. Be happy. Be glad for every day you have.”
Destination Center One advantage that made Brown decide to get her mastectomy, other than being strongly encouraged by her various doctors, was that she could get the mastectomy and reconstruction done in the same day. That was a deal maker for her. David Cole, M.D., Rose Professor and chairman of the Department of Surgery, handled her double mastectomy and plastic surgeon Dennis Schimpf, M.D., did her DIEP reconstruction. Schimpf said the goal is to make life simpler for women with breast cancer, so Hollings Cancer Center (HCC) tries to offer a complete package to patients. He’s pleased how MUSC’s HCC, which holds a National Cancer Institute (NCI) designation, is growing to be a destination center for breast reconstruction. HCC has a high-risk breast program that includes genetic testing and counseling and a comprehensive array of surgical options. The Division of Plastic Surgery offers the entire range of breast reconstruction procedures from traditional, implant-based reconstruction, to the most advanced
Being well-informeD
Dr. Dennis Schimpf, left, Department of Surgery, performs a breast reconstruction. The Division of Plastic Surgery completes more than 400 breast reconstruction cases per year. Microvascular breast reconstruction cases (such as DIEP) comprise more than 100 of the breast reconstructions that are completed each year. For information on breast reconstruction, visit http://www.breastreconstructionofcharleston.com. perforator-based (DIEP) forms of reconstruction that are available today, he said. “We have a tremendous amount of experience in breast reconstruction secondary to our large volume of cases. We also tend to do the more difficult cases on the more high risk or difficult patients and often times are the last hope for women who have had difficulties with previous reconstructions or who have been turned down by other centers.” Schimpf helped bring Renee Maschinot onto the team. The medical tattoo artist travels from Florida to MUSC every other month to offer areola and 3-D nipple tattoos. “Plastic surgery offers the opportunity to impact both the appearance and the function of patients by operating on all areas of the body in patients of all ages.
As a result of being a part of the only NCI cancer center in South Carolina, we can offer patients access to the highest level of cancer care, breast reconstruction and support services, such as nutrition, physical therapy, counseling and survivorship groups.” The approach is to have a multidisciplinary team working together to treat the physical and emotional needs of each patient. “We treat each patient as an individual and make recommendations and schedule appointments to accommodate each patient’s comfort and convenience. Our program is designed to centralize all outpatient breast cancer/reconstruction services in one location so that patients do not have to travel to multiple locations for appointments. We strive to anticipate and address the needs of our patients.”
“Plastic surgery offers the opportunity to profoundly impact, both the appearance and the function of patients...” Dr. Dennis Schimpf
For Brown, that is crucial. She has to travel 150 miles from Latta, outside of Florence, to get here. Brown said her health is worth the drive, but she’s glad to combine as many appointments as she can when she comes. Having had so many medical issues, she has learned how to best navigate the health care system. She advises patients to engage their health care providers and do their research on all the options now available, especially for women with or at high risk for breast cancer. “This will ensure that they have all of the knowledge necessary to make a wellinformed decision.” Brown holds up a picture of her 5-yearold daughter – one of her motivations in being as well-informed as she could. She wants to be around to see her grow up. Sometimes people ask her if she made the right decision to have her breasts removed before cancer struck. “I think I did the right thing. I feel very confident in my decision. It is a drastic step. But with that genetic testing, it is not a matter of if you’re going to get breast cancer. I know I’m going to. It’s a matter of when. I chose not to wait for the when.” Studying her options for reconstruction was empowering as well. “I was tickled by the fact it was going to be a breast reduction. I can wear cute bras and cute shirts. I am going to have a tummy tuck. I’m like, ‘Lord, I haven’t had a flat belly in years.’” Brown chose the DIEP flap because it used her own tissue and will respond to her natural weight gain and losses. If she couldn’t have it done, she’s not sure if she would still have opted to have the double mastectomy. Despite all her brave decisions, she knows there remains a small chance she still can get cancer. She relies on her strong Christian faith. Her goal is to show her daughter how to look at all the different options there are in life when a challenge arises and choose the path of not being a victim, she said. “If I get breast cancer now, then so be it. That is just my destiny. I have done everything I physically can to prevent it. If I get it, then it’s, ‘OK, what are we going to do now?’ What do you want to do and when can you do it?”
the Catalyst, October 21, 2011 9
Open House - Sunday, Oct. 23rd 1:00-4:00
Old Village – Renovated Cottage 1418 Moultrie St.
Just Reduced - $305,000
IP02-626805
3 bdrm, 1 ba., 939 approx. sf. Refinished hardwood flooring New double hung windows New kitchen cabinets Granite counters New Frigidaire Professional Series Appliances Glass tile backsplash Travertine flooring in kitchen & bath Travertine wall tile and tub surround in bath Smooth ceilings All new lighting New interior and exterior paint New 5 panel doors New Bahama Shutters
CM07-605141
Contact Jennifer Nipper • 843-478-1800 • jen@agentowned.com
Buy or Sell with the agents
who are doing business in today’s market
48 CLOSED transactions so far in 2011 & another
13 under contract as of 10/11/11
Visual Tour of the Week.
Call Matt Poole at 830-0027 or Randall Sandin at 209-9667to learn more
IP07-612644b
HAFA Short Sale Certified REALTORS Call us to see if you qualify for this Short Sale Program
CM07-624094
10 the Catalyst, October 21, 2011
Tattooing offers new breast reconstruction options By Dawn Brazell Public Relations
I
t’s hard to get through life without scars, whether it’s physical or emotional. The women medical tattoo artist, Renee Maschinot, helps often carry both. What she loves about her job is she can make some of the scars disappear or at least have less impact, she said. The licensed esthetician joined MUSC’s staff in July, commuting from Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., where she owns a salon, with her equipment that includes a specially-made tattoo machine complete with a pink ribbon design. She comes up every other month to provide areola and 3-D nipple tattoos for breast cancer survivors. “Dr. Schimpf is staying on trend and he knew this was an option and he wanted to provide his patients with the best possible result,” she said of plastic surgeon Dennis Schimpf, M.D., who sought her out for the job. “It really shows a lot about MUSC that they want to provide their patients with every option possible.” Maschinot said she appreciates the opportunity to provide this service to cancer survivors in a way that’s convenient for them. She’s been in the beauty industry for 28 years, also dabbling in fine art doing pottery and porcelain restorations. “With that art background and after I had my own eyebrows tattooed, I thought I could have done that and probably know color theory better than she does.” She took the plunge, doing a two-year apprenticeship in 2004 with a traditional tattoo artist to gain the in-depth kind of experience she wanted. When she started researching the possibilities in the field, she discovered the specialty of medical tattoo artists who do areola work. “I thought that is so up my alley. It’s got that whole medical appeal.” Maschinot, who debated being a nurse when she was younger, said she loves how her job combines her love of art, beauty and medicine. “There’s that creative side of me so it’s come full circle
Cynde Brown meets with medical tattoo artist Renee Maschinot at MUSC.
“I found my true calling in my life’s work is to be able to restore what time or illness has taken away.” Renee Maschinot where I have a job that encompasses the medical aspect along with the creative aspect. It is awesome that I can do that. Every person that I do, I still say, ‘Wow, look what I did.’ Every person is different. Their skin is different.” She gets excited to see her clients’ reactions, getting varied reactions from joy to tears. “What they find amazing is that when you create that nipple areola area back, your eye goes to that color and the scars sort of fade out. It’s amazing to them that they don’t focus on their scars as much. Many of them are stunned about the difference it makes.” Many breast cancer survivors refer to themselves as having the Barbie look on message boards. “Barbie doesn’t have nipples or areolas so it makes them
feel non-sexual. As soon as you add the nipples and areolas, you’re complete and now they become breasts.” Cynde Brown, who had the procedure done, said she chose not to do nipple reconstruction because the 3-D nipple tattoo seemed a better choice for her. “They look like an actual nipple – looking at it straight on. Looking at it sideways, it’s just nice and smooth. You don’t have to worry about what clothes you wear. When I got that done, I felt like I was complete. It was like everything is back like it’s supposed to be. I’m good to go.” That’s what Maschinot hopes for in her work. The 3-D nipple option is for women who chose not to have their nipple reconstructed via tissue rearrangement, said Maschinot. “There is no protrusion so they don’t have to wear a bra. The 3-D is an illusion created through shading technique that creates the look of a nipple. Even if patients have had nipple reconstruction and feel they are not symmetrical, the tattooing can help even it out.” She loves the challenge of matching color to skin tone to create an invisible repair, just like she used to do with her porcelain repairs. “To really do that, you have to see color. Being able to see skin tone and to know how to get the best results is intuitive.”
Maschinot had this tattoo tool specially designed for her work. For more information about her specialty, visit http://www. reneemaschinot.com. Maschinot said she likes it that MUSC is empowering patients by giving them a choice. Not all doctors let women know the options that are available. “Especially in women’s health, women need to be proactive and really seek out their options and know what is available. The 3-D nipple tattooing is an awesome option.” Maschinot said she’s amazed by the results in every procedure she does and feels she’s helping in the healing process. She finds some women are ashamed of their bodies and hide from dressing in front of their spouses. It makes her sad, she said. “I hope that this changes that for them. I found my true calling in my life’s work is to be able to restore what time or illness has taken away.”
the Catalyst, October 21, 2011 11
CLASSIFIED P AGE • Household Personal Items for MUSC employees are free.
All other classifieds are charged at rate below. Ads considered venture-making ads (puppy breeder, coffee business, home for sale, etc.) will be charged as PAID ADS •• PROOF OF ELIGIBILITY REQUIRED * NO MORE THAN 3 LINES * FREE ADS RUN 2 WEEKS ONLY!
Misc. Services
Items for Sale
Rental Properties
College of Charleston Student Health Services is seeking a part-time NP/PA Please see the job posting at jobs.cofc.edu Posting is temporary but yearly renewals are possible.
Catfood: New 2 bags Hill's K/D (renal health) $15 ea. Cosequin $10 4 mo Advantage Multi $30. obo 792-1370 or 762-2002
West Ashley, 1800 sqft unfurnished modern home, 3 BR, 2.5 BA, Beautiful corner lot in Village Green with privacy fenced in yard, full access to pool and recreation area. Gorgeous biking paths and new Bees Ferry Park for the kids. Wonderful and kind neighbors. 1450.00/month (814) 470-6550.
TO ADVERTISE IN THE CATALYST CALL 849-1778
IP04-611498
PAID ADS are $3 per line (1 line = 28 characters) DEADLINE: TUESDAY – 10:00 AM * CLASSIFIED ADS CAN BE E-MAILED TO sales@moultrienews.com, OR MAILED (134 Columbus St., Charleston SC 29403) Please call 849-1778 with questions. *Must provide Badge No. and Department of Employment for employees and Student I.D. Number for MUSC Students. IP01-213824a
CM07-620701
Selling Charleston BryanThompsonRealestate.com • South Carolina Native – MUSC Focused • Buying/selling specialty/resort homes expert • 15 years marketing and sales leadership experience • Bryan.Thompson@AgentOwnedRealty.com Bryan Thompson 843-452-1686 CM07-620648
CM02-616602
12 the Catalyst, October 21, 2011 A Certified Pre-Owned Mercedes-Benz is so much more than a “used” car. It is a pre-owned vehicle built by a company famous for its engineering triumphs, its racing heritage, and its commitment to luxury, quality, reliability and safety. The Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-Owned Program represents all the virtues you expect from Mercedes-Benz, including exceptional service from your Certified PreOwned authorized Mercedes-Benz Dealer. Oh, and comprehensive coverage with a $0 deductible up to 100,000 miles.
INCLUDES 5 YEAR/100,000 MILE EXTENDED LIMITED WARRANTY 2010 MERCEDES-BENZ
2008 MERCEDES
BLACK/BLACK, SUNROOF ,I-POD, ONLY 28K MILES ON THIS CLEAN CARFAX, ONE OWNER, CERTIFIED CAR, #PM5086
IN ARTIC WHITE WITH P1 AND MULTI MEDIA PACKAGE CERTIFIED,ONE OWNER, CLEAN CARFAX, 46K MILES, #5035
2008 MERCEDES
C300 SPORT SEDAN C300 LUXURY SEDAN $
SALE PRICE
31,647
2011 MERCEDES
E350 CONVERTIBLE
$
SALE PRICE
29,916
2008 MERCEDES
E320 DIESEL
PALLADIUM SILVER WITH ALMOND INTERIOR, NICELY EQUIPPED WITH NAVIGATION, AIRSCARF,APPEAREANCE PACKAGE, CERTIFIED,ONE OWNER,CLEAN CARFAX, PM5064
ARTIC WHITE/ASH WITH 25K MILES, NAVIGATION AND PANO ROOF, CERTIFIED, ONE OWNER, CLEAN CARFAX, MB2770AB
SALE PRICE
SALE PRICE
$
59,689
$
Ask About
38,877
CLK350 CONVERTIBLE
ARTIC WHITE WITH BLUE SOFT TOP, FACTORY INSTALLED NAVIGATION, 45K MILES ON THIS ONE OWNER, CLEAN CARFAX, CERTIFIED CAR, #PM5088
$
Class C E CLK SLK CLS M GL
Model Year 08, ‘09 08, ‘09 08, ‘09 08, ‘09 08, ‘09 08, ‘09 08, ‘09
Special APR 1.99% 1.99% 1.99% 1.99% 1.99% 1.99% 1.99%
NOTES: Above CPO Special Rates Valid through October 31, 2011. Rates apply to Super Tier through Tier II Customers only.
SALE PRICE
36,936
2009 MERCEDES
CLK350 CONVERTIBLE
BLACK/TAN, WELL EQUIPPED WITH 2,NAVIGATION,HEATED/VENTILATED SEATS, 33K MILES ON THIS CERTIFED,ONE, WNER,CLEAN CARFAX CAR, #PM5093
$
SALE PRICE
41,977
2009 MERCEDES
2008 MERCEDES
BLACK/TAN WITH 26K MILES, NAVIGATION AND SPORT PACKAGE, CERTIFED AND CLEAN CARFAX, PM5059
INDIUM GRAY/CASHMERE WITH 41K MILES NAVIGATION AND SPORT PACKAGE CERTIFIED AND CLEAN CARFAX, PM5061
SALE PRICE
SALE PRICE
E350 SPORT SEDAN E350 SPORT SEDAN $
41,638
$
35,123
We proudly sponsor 2011 MERCEDES
2009 MERCEDES
2008 MERCEDES
RED/ALMOND WITH 9K MILES, PANO ROOF AND SATELLITE RADIO, ONE OWNER,CLEAN CARFAX,CERTIFIED WARRANTY UNTIL 8/30/2015 OR 100,000 MILES, MB2088
BLACK/TAN WITH 34K MILES, P1 WITH NAVIGATION AND RUNNING BOARDS, ONE OWNER,CLEAN CARFAX, CERTIFIED, PM5063A
DESIGNO GRAPHITE EDITION. P3 WITH PANO AND AMG SPORT PACKAGE, 47K MILES ON THIS ONE OWNER, CLEAN CARFAX, CERTIFIED CAR, PM5072
RED/TAN WITH 37K MILES, P3 WITH NAVIGATION AND LIGHTING PACKAGE CLEAN CARFAX, CERTIFIED CAR, PM5083
SALE PRICE
SALE PRICE
SALE PRICE
SALE PRICE
GLK350
$
34,818
S550
ML320 DIESEL $
43,869
$
61,057
All prices plus tax and tag. Includes $499 processing fee. Some photos for illustration only.
BakerMotorCompany
www. .com 1511 Savannah Hwy, Charleston, SC 29407
843-852-4000
2008 MERCEDES
SLK55 AMG $
43,933