Ochsner
February/March 2022
Serve, Heal, Lead, Educate and Innovate
As we celebrate our 80th anniversary, Ochsner Health reflects on our commitment to you through compassionate and patient-centered care—and looks forward to a more equitable future for all patients. Also in This Issue:
• How one breast cancer survivor is reshaping recovery (page 4) •H arnessing the power of music therapy to heal, uplift and connect (page 13)
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hy empowering heart failure patients to reclaim their health is W helping them heal (page 14)
•H ow one woman found her calling by donating blood to COVID-19 patients (page 18)
DE AR FR IE NDS, When the first Ochsner Clinic opened up at the corner of Aline and Prytania streets in Uptown New Orleans in 1942, our founders couldn’t have ever imagined the changes our organization would experience. Perhaps 80 years ago, no one fully anticipated the medical advances—or the wars,
FOUNDATION BOARD
economic hardships, hurricanes, social justice struggles and the challenges of the pandemic—that were on the horizon.
Gayle Benson
Still, I’d like to think that Dr. Alton Ochsner, our namesake and
Miles P. Clements
one of our founders along with Drs. Edgar Burns, Guy Caldwell, Francis LeJeune and Curtis Tyrone, had a sense that Ochsner Health would continue to provide worldclass, patient-centered care—no matter what obstacles came our way. In honor of Ochsner’s 80th anniversary, you’ll learn about how we’re upholding
Joseph R. Dalovisio, MD Frank C. Dudenhefer, Jr. William B. Emory
our founders’ commitment to improving the health and well-being of communities
Calvin Fayard, Jr.
across the Gulf South. In these pages, you’ll meet a breast cancer survivor who is
Gregory D. Flores
revolutionizing cancer recovery with a patient-centered approach to aftercare.
Paul H. Flower
Amanda England, MD, Ochsner’s Medical Director of Neonatology, spoke to us about
Tommy Fonseca
how her cutting-edge research on opioid addiction in newborns is offering hope for some of our most vulnerable patients. And you’ll discover how blood pressure cuffs provided by the Heart Transplant Patient Assistance Fund are giving people recovering from heart failure a second chance at life.
Sarah G. Freeman Wilmer “Bill” Freiberg Marcel Garsaud
As always, none of this would be possible without the generosity of our
Lee L. Giorgio, Jr.
philanthropic partners. To commemorate this milestone, we’ve devoted this issue
John M. Hairston
of our magazine to you, our donors. Your commitment is making the technological
Desiree R. Harrison
innovations, lifesaving treatment and unparalleled care we provide to residents
Tara C. Hernandez
throughout the Gulf South possible, and I sincerely thank you for your incredible
Todd B. Johnson
contributions. Our organization has been through many challenges over the years, and we are forever grateful to those who’ve stood by us—now more than ever. I’m proud to say that Ochsner has not only survived in the face of adversity, we’ve thrived. Each time we’ve been knocked down, we come back stronger. If there’s one
John Kennedy Margaret L. Laborde Cliffe F. Laborde
thing Dr. Alton Ochsner would want, it would be knowing that his legacy of service
John P. Laborde
and leadership will carry on thanks to your contributions. On behalf of the entire
Michael J. Maenza
team, thank you for helping us write a brand-new chapter in the history book on
Steve Nathanson
Ochsner Health.
Chadwick Landry
Warner L. Thomas President & CEO, Ochsner Health
Lori K. Ochsner Karen T. Stall Pamela Steeg Warner Thomas Catherine Burns Tremaine Norris Williams
To see more stories like these, please follow us on Facebook
We’d like to hear from you! Please send comments to philanthropy@Ochsner.org.
See this magazine and all our archives online at:
ochsner.org/magazine Browse other projects made possible by donors at:
ochsner.org/donorimpact
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OCHSNER EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP Warner L. Thomas President and Chief Executive Off icer Robert Hart, MD, FAAP, FACP Executive Vice President and Chief Medical Off icer
IN THIS ISSUE Reshaping the Future of Aftercare
Michael Hulefeld Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Off icer
Through the Breast Surgery Recovery Fund, Kim Gros is improving the healing process with specialized post-surgical bras.
Scott J. Posecai Executive Vice President, Insurance Partnerships and Treasurer
Honoring John Ochsner
Pete November Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Off icer Leonardo Seoane, MD, FACP Senior Vice President and Chief Academic Off icer Tracey Schiro Executive Vice President, Chief Risk and Human Resources Off icer Mark Muller Senior Vice President of Strategy and Business Development David M. Gaines Chief Executive Off icer of System Retail Services and Senior Vice President of Public Affairs Michelle Dodenhoff Senior Vice President and Chief Development Off icer Jennifer F. Bollinger Senior Vice President of Consumer Strategy
OCHSNER MAGAZINE Lea Witkowski-Purl Maida Jones Megan St. Germain Editors
MARKETSMITHS CONTENT STRATEGISTS LLC Alizah Salario Custom Publishing Editor Anne Elder Associate Editor Amy Schraub Art Director
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Dr. Hernan Bazan is the inaugural holder of the John Ochsner Endowed Professorship in Innovation and is at the forefront of vascular surgery and research.
Supporting the Littlest Patients
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Ochsner’s neonatal specialists are spearheading cutting-edge research to help babies born with opioid addictions.
Celebrating a Resilient Past and a More Equitable Future
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In celebration of our 80th anniversary, we take a look back at how Ochsner Health has evolved over the decades—and what’s on the horizon.
Healing Through Harmony
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The Ochsner Neuroscience Institute music therapy program honors the life of William “Billy” Legier, Jr. and helps patients find their voice again.
Mending Hearts and Minds
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The Ochsner Heart Failure Transitional Care Clinic gives patients the resources they need to manage chronic heart failure.
In Brief: Lives Transformed
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Meet the extraordinary Ochsner patients who were given a second chance—and are making the most of it.
A Universal Hero
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Kaitlyn Seiler faced her fear of needles to support the Ochsner Blood Bank.
Glimpses Cover design by Amy Schraub This cover is dedicated to you! You’re the reason we’re celebrating 80 years together. We’ve placed a sturdy, classic and intricate antique mirror on the cover with detailing of the Lifemark. It reflects our community back to us, and honors our donors, patients, team members, and the entire Ochsner family.
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Despite ongoing COVID-19 restrictions, Ochsner staff and patients still celebrated in style.
Some images may have been taken prior to COVID-19 regulations.
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Essential Support, Holistic Healing How a breast cancer survivor is reshaping aftercare By Anne Elder
Kim Gros hopes to revolutionize surgical aftercare at Ochsner. In May 2018, Kim was diagnosed with stage zero ductal carcinoma in situ, an early form of breast cancer. Though a lumpectomy and radiation would have had her back on her feet in six weeks, Kim opted for a bilateral mastectomy—both to minimize the chance of recurrence and to avoid radiation near her heart. When she was sent home after surgery, Kim was provided with a flimsy bra and a fanny pack to hold the tubes and vials necessary for healing. She and her doctor would later make fun of this bra in follow-up visits. Fortunately, Kim had a backup plan. Prior to her surgery, a friend whose mother had worked as a mammographer told Kim which bras she would need in advance. These recovery bras are made specifically for aftercare, with comfortable fabric, easy Velcro® closures and rings to hold drain bulbs. The thoughtfully designed bras vastly improved her recovery experience. But these bras are expensive—often with little to no insurance reimbursement—and Kim realized they were not accessible for all patients at Ochsner or elsewhere. She told her doctor she was interested in giving more women access to the resources they needed, and then connected with the
philanthropy department. “I wanted to start a recovery fund where women could go home with what they need,” Kim said. “I thought that if I could give patients a hand up and give them these goodie bags and a decent bra after surgery, it would create an easier recovery experience.” A holistic approach to recovery Kim worked with Anna Combes, Director of Development for Ochsner Cancer Institute, to launch the Breast Surgery Recovery Fund in 2019. Anna frequently works with patients interested in showing their gratitude,
and she appreciated Kim’s insights into what could have improved her experience at Ochsner. “It has made us better as a breast cancer center that we’re giving our patients resources like this, and that we’re providing items to improve their recovery,” Anna said. “It’s those small nuances and going the extra mile that philanthropy can make possible. We’ve got great doctors and a beautiful building, but these little things that our donors can bring to us just make the experience so much better.” Hundreds of patients throughout
Soft Velcro® front closures and shoulder releases make for a customized fit and effortless removal Ultra-soft performance fabric that minimizes irritation of sensitive skin but provides proper support and compression
Strategically placed rings allow for the safe and easy management of JP drain bulbs
Adjustable side openings prevent crimping and pinching of JP tubing
To support the Breast Surgery Recovery Fund, please scan this code.
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the Ochsner network have already benefited from the fund. Prior to the pandemic, Kim partnered with local bakeries and restaurants to raise funds, in addition to hosting events and bringing in other benefactors. Despite limited options for fundraising events during the pandemic, Kim still raised enough funds for two orders of bras to cover the entire Ochsner system, and more. Since the endeavor began, it has blossomed into a holistic fund to improve all aspects of recovery—and will continue to do so. Creating a new standard of aftercare In addition to providing take-home bags, the recovery fund is also being used to produce informative videos for the children of Ochsner cancer patients. As a caregiver to her father at just eight years old, providing loved ones with resources on caring for a family member diagnosed with cancer resonated with Kim. “When the idea to create videos for kids came up, I was like, man, that would’ve been such a blessing for me as a kid,” she said. “I would’ve had so much less anxiety, and I’ve carried that anxiety throughout my life.
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Kim Gros, pictured with the recovery bras that are making surgical aftercare more comfortable for many breast cancer survivors. Photo: Staci Brimer
elevating the standard of care at a national level. “We really didn’t want to limit it to one cancer. We want to be able to make it universal,” Kim said. “One of
Looking at the future of cancer care, in general, it’s no longer just about treating the cancer. It’s about treating the whole patient. — Anna Combes Maybe this can change some child’s outlook on cancer.” The videos explain to children what their parent is experiencing with empathy and knowledge—a gift for parents who may be too tired to explain it themselves. Kim hopes that the videos will eventually benefit all patients at Ochsner and beyond,
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the biggest things the women talk about are their kids. They ask, ‘How do I explain this to my kids?’ So we gave them a little help.” Thanks to the open-ended structure of the fund, it can support patients in all facets of recovery. “Kim has done such a wonderful job of bringing awareness and support
to the fund,” Anna said. “I think that as medical treatment changes, we’re going to find new needs for our patients. Looking at the future of cancer care, in general, it’s no longer just about treating the cancer. It’s about treating the whole patient.” Together, Kim, Anna and a team of nurse navigators are brainstorming new aftercare solutions that are in line with Ochsner’s own patient-centered approach. They’ve discussed using the fund to support jewelry-making classes, acupuncture, tattooing, bringing wigs on-site for custom fittings and more. “At the end of the day, we want to be able to provide the women with anything they need that helps in their recovery,” Kim said. “Some of those things just really take your mind off of it, and give you hope.”
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Honoring Dr. John Ochsner’s Legacy $1.5M endowment supports Dr. Hernan Bazan’s vascular innovation By Alizah Salario
Ochsner’s highly-trained and nationallyranked Vascular Surgery team is dedicated to treating and preventing vascular disease in all parts of the body. In 2022, Ochsner was once again rated among ‘America’s 50 Best Vascular Surgery’ by Healthgrades for ‘superior clinical outcomes in abdominal aortic aneurysm repair, carotid surgery, and peripheral bypass surgery.’ Ochsner’s Vascular Surgery has had this recognition annually since 2019. The Program Director of the Fellowship in Vascular Surgery, Hernan Bazan, MD, DFSVS, FACS, possesses unparalleled expertise in the field. In June 2021, he was honored as the inaugural holder of the John Ochsner Endowed Professorship in Innovation for the Ochsner Heart & Vascular Institute, which pays homage to Dr. John Ochsner’s legacy.
Service and scholarship Following his passing in 2018, friends and family of Dr. John Ochsner raised funds in support of this Endowment. Dr. Bazan was selected as the first recipient supporting his clinical and translational research projects on carotid artery disease and stroke. He and his team are studying the factors that cause specific atherosclerotic plaques to rupture, leading to stroke or a heart attack. Moreover, his work describes which patients can safely undergo urgent carotid surgery or stenting to prevent recurrent strokes. The study is entitled “Innovation in Acute Carotid Stroke Treatments to Prevent Atherosclerotic Plaque Rupture.” Dr. Bazan’s endowed professorship continues through June 30, 2026.
Dr. Hernan Bazan reviewing clinical data in his off ice. Photo courtesy of Dr. Hernan Bazan.
As both a Professor of Surgery and a Board-Certified Vascular Surgeon, Dr. Bazan, who joined Ochsner in 2010, has an outstanding record of service and scholarship. He has authored more than 50 peer-reviewed publications and received multiple teaching awards from medical students and fellow surgical residents.
New research Dr. Bazan also acts as the Principal Investigator of a current $1.9M NIH grant from the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Strokes (NINDS) through 2023 and leads an atherosclerosis translational research program on the mechanisms involved in carotid plaque rupture and stroke. In addition to his work at Ochsner, Dr. Bazan is the co-founder of two companies, one of which is aimed at pain relief innovation, particularly for patients with diabetes and neuropathic pain, and a second protecting against acute strokes.
Dr. Bazan and his team have developed a novel small molecule lead pain asset from discovery synthesis through all of the preclinical testing required by the FDA, and it is currently in a Phase 1 clinical trial. Dr. Bazan’s education began at Vanderbilt University, where he earned his undergraduate degree in 1994. He attended medical school at Georgetown University. Dr. Bazan was a Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI)-NIH Research Scholar at the NIH and was awarded the HHMI award for his research at the NIH. His general surgery training was performed at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City, and he was awarded the Arthur H. Aufses, Sr. Prize in Surgery by the Mount Sinai faculty for “scholarship, integrity, concern for patients and outstanding ability as a teacher.” He completed a vascular surgery fellowship at Yale University.
To support Dr. Bazan’s research, please scan this code to give to the John Ochsner Endowed Professorship in Innovation. 6
February/March 2022
Giving the Youngest Victims of the Opioid Crisis a Fighting Chance Treating babies born addicted to opioids is no small task, but Ochsner researchers are leading the way. By Rachel Carp and Maggie Serota
When a baby born prematurely enters the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at Ochsner Baptist - A Campus of Ochsner Medical Center, the skilled doctors and nurses do everything in their power to give these tiny infants a fighting chance. For babies born addicted to opioids, the challenge is especially harrowing. “When we see babies like this, the most ideal situation is to be able to treat them without medication. That means you’re trying to decrease their stimulation,” said Harley Ginsberg, MD, Senior Physician of Neonatology at Ochsner. “We’ll have them in private rooms where it’s dark and quiet. Sometimes there’ll be soothing music playing. We do anything to try to limit the sensory input to the baby.” Another challenge: there’s no standardized national protocol for babies that are born with opioid addictions, which means that the best therapies for these babies is still unknown. But Amanda England, MD, the Medical Director for the NICU at Ochsner Baptist and the Principal Investigator for several clinical trials, is trying to change that. Thanks to research underway by some of Ochsner’s top-tier neonatal physicians and led by Dr. England, standardized treatment protocols to wean infants off of
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Amanda England, MD is the Medical Director for the NICU at Ochsner Baptist and Principal Investigator for several clinical trials. Photo: Stephen Legendre
Ultimately, we’re working
and unfortunately even symptoms as traumatic as seizures from acute toward establishing a standard protocol so all NICUs across the withdrawal,” explained Dr. Ginsberg. It’s within this context that Dr. England country are treating babies the is currently leading multiple clinical trials same way. and studies, one of which is looking at — Dr. Amanda England the best therapies to treat infants with an opioid addiction. opioids may be on the horizon. “The question that we’re trying to Cutting-edge research, hope answer in our study is, ‘Can we wean and healing these kids faster without increasing As one of only two Level IV neonatal adverse outcomes, or do we have to wean intensive care units in Louisiana and the them off opioids slowly?’ Ultimately, we’re only Level IV NICU in the state with a labor working toward establishing a standard and delivery unit attached, the NICU at protocol so all NICUs across the country Ochsner Baptist plays an essential role in are treating babies the same way.” treating infants requiring special care. Dr. The research is ongoing, and the study Ginsberg estimates that out of 600 NICU has not yet uncovered clear answers admissions over the past year, the unit about effective treatment. “probably treats a couple dozen” infants Innovative treatment, suffering from opioid withdrawal. empathy and emotional It’s ideal to wean babies as soon as strength possible, but the process depends on the In order to add clinical trial substance and severity of the addiction. opportunities, however, Ochsner needs Dr. Ginsberg estimates that babies born support from parents who are willing to addicted to opioids spend, on average, participate in this cutting-edge research. about one month in the NICU. Despite “If you’re a woman out there who the best efforts of medical professionals, (continued on page 12) withdrawal can be grueling. “Babies usually will have things like tremors. They can have increased stooling frequency,
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To support Dr. England’s research in the NICU at Ochsner Baptist, please scan this code.
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80 Years Later, Ochsner Health is Still Putting Patients First Looking back on Ochsner Health’s commitment to compassion, gratitude and patient-centered care By Rachel Carp
The story of Ochsner Health began in January of 1942—in the midst of World War II—with five New Orleans medical school professors.
first group practice clinic in the southern United States. Dr. Ochsner was already known for his controversial 1939 paper that exposed the link between lung
many ways Ochsner would prove ahead of its time. Soon after the clinic’s opening, the partners saw the potential of their small group practice, and aspired to
Ochsner Health is named for Dr. Alton Ochsner, one of those five professors, who along with Drs. Edgar Burns, Guy Caldwell, Francis LeJeune and Curtis Tyrone, contributed $43,000 to open the
cancer and smoking. By 1941, he was ready to make it his mission to treat cancer patients and educate people on the detrimental effects of cigarettes. That prescient paper was the first of
turn Ochsner into a permanent research, educational and charitable organization serving the wider Gulf South. This led to the establishment of the Alton Ochsner Medical Foundation in 1944, which went
Local medical school professors (from left) Dr. Francis E. LeJeune, Dr. Edgar Burns, Dr, Curtis Tyrone, Dr. Guy A. Caldwell and Dr. Alton Ochsner. Photo courtesy of Ochsner Archives.
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on to train and graduate 210 physicians in nine chosen specialties that year. Within four years, the storied history of one of the United States’ top healthcare systems was set in motion. “It hasn’t always been easy, and I’ve thought a lot about what our organization has been through over the years,” Ochsner’s President and CEO Warner Thomas wrote in January 2022. “With perseverance and grit, Ochsner survives, and thrives, in the face of adversity. Each challenge makes us even stronger. Even better. And we never give up.”
1950s-1970s: Paving the way for medical advancements Driven by a mission to Serve, Heal, Lead, Educate and Innovate, Ochsner changed the medical landscape in the 1950s and beyond with groundbreaking procedures. In 1953, Dr. Ochsner successfully separated conjoined twins. In the 1960s, Ochsner’s cardiovascular research paved the way for new surgeries and transplants. In 1966, a team of Ochsner doctors performed the first successful adult kidney transplant in the region, and in 1967, performed the first pediatric Gulf South kidney transplant. In the 1970s, John Ochsner, MD, Dr. Alton Ochsner’s son, performed the first regional heart transplant and implanted a pacemaker in a newborn—the youngest patient to ever receive the device at that time.
1980s-1990s: Cutting-edge training with a patientcentered approach Fulfilling the founders’ mission to educate, Ochsner’s training program was the largest non-university based program in the United States by 1981. Michael Trotter, MD, completed his thoracic and cardiovascular surgery fellowship under Dr. John Ochsner from 1993 to 1995. He went on to have a successful career in the private practice of thoracic
Ochsner’s President and CEO Warner Thomas, who was the system’s COO when Hurricane Katrina struck, hauling supplies during hurricane relief efforts in 2005. Photo: Stephen Legendre
and cardiovascular surgery, and now, in his retirement, gives back as a current member and the former President of the Ochsner Alumni Association. Dr. Trotter credits his “outstanding” training at Ochsner—under stellar doctors like John Ochsner, Cliff Van Meter, Mike McFadden and Ara Pridjian—with laying the foundation for his success. “Not only did the training prepare me to go into practice, but training at an institution like Ochsner opened doors that might not have been open to me,” he said. Beyond the didactic and technical aspects of training, Dr. Trotter recalls Dr. John Ochsner’s emphasis on dedicated, patient-centered care. “One of the things from my training that really stuck with me—and I learned this from Dr. John—is that you always have to do what’s best for the patient, even if it’s inconvenient for you or takes a little extra effort,” he said. “At the end of the day, if you don’t do what’s best for the patient, not only is the patient going to suffer, but you’re going to suffer. That one lesson has stood by me throughout my entire career.”
2000s-2010s: Overcoming obstacles, bouncing back stronger Ochsner’s patient-centered approach has never wavered. Even when Hurricane Katrina rocked the Gulf South in 2005, Ochsner never closed its doors. Warner Thomas was the system’s COO when the hurricane struck. “There was a challenge to reopen and get our clinics and hospitals reopened,” Warner recalled in a Q&A with Kelly Gooch of Becker’s Hospital Review. “Then there was the challenge immediately after the storm of being able to help people come back into the city and find housing if their house was destroyed or significantly damaged… We provided housing for a lot of people for months. I remember we offered free meals [to employees] in our cafeteria for a year after Katrina because a lot of people didn’t have kitchens…It was a very difficult and challenging time.” Nevertheless, the Ochsner team rose to the occasion. “We looked at it as an opportunity to stand up and play a huge role in bringing healthcare back to New Orleans,” he said. (continued on page 11)
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A Look Back at 2021 Ochsner’s top achievements, honors, awards and philanthropic efforts changed lives this past year. In our 80-year history, heartfelt stories have always informed the work we do at Ochsner Health. While we can’t put a number on the extent of our impact, these figures are part of a bigger story about our service and leadership in 2021— all thanks to our generous donors and dedicated staff.
1 million
Ranked #1
people were treated by Ochsner Health in 2021. They came from every state and 75 countries.
by U.S. News & World Report for being the top hospital in Louisiana for the 10th year in a row. Ochsner Medical Center was also nationally ranked as a top 50 hospital for Neurology & Neurosurgery.
5,348 Ochsner healthcare workers and staff were supported by the Employee Assistance Fund in the wake of Hurricane Ida.
1,650,000 COVID-19 tests were administered (excludes OLG)
1,343 vaccination events were held across Louisiana and Mississippi.
59 Excellence Fund Grants were awarded, amounting to $1.1 million distributed across Ochsner.
290,195 individuals were fully vaccinated, and 70,435 boosters were given.
16,600 Learn more about the projects supported by the Excellence Fund at www.ochsner.org/excellencefund.
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patients with COVID-19 were treated and discharged home.
80 Years Later (continued f rom page 9)
In the aftermath of Katrina, Ochsner 2020: Tackling COVID-19 2020s-2030s and beyond: purchased three Louisiana-based with grit, determination, Holistic health equity, rooted hospitals, now Ochsner Baptist - A and teamwork in inclusivity Campus of Ochsner Medical Center, Despite the devastation wrought When New Orleans quickly emerged by the pandemic, 2020 and 2021 were Ochsner Medical Center - Kenner and as a COVID-19 “hot spot” in March 2020, pivotal years for Ochsner. It changed its Ochsner Medical Center - West Bank the team at Ochsner was prepared. In full name to Ochsner Health, a small but Campus. “We found that after Katrina, the weeks following Mardi Gras, Ochsner significant change that reflects Ochsner’s many people wanted to become part of treated nearly 35% of all COVID-19 long-term to leading a statewide health the rebuilding in New Orleans,” Warner patients statewide and 60% of all critically strategy that promotes the health and said. “We hired healthcare workers who ill patients in the New Orleans region. wellness of the whole person, and, moved to New Orleans after the storm, Despite facing innumerable challenges— over time, improves Louisiana’s national and it’s really helped make us a better including lack of tests, supply shortages, health ranking. organization today.” limited bed capacity and more—Ochsner’s With Louisiana currently ranked The expansion allowed Ochsner to dedication prevailed. Between providing the least healthy state in the country, serve tens of thousands more patients, free childcare sites for employees and Ochsner announced a new initiative: provide better clinical outcomes, increase Healthy State by 2030. This 10-year creating ICU beds in non-traditional commitment aims to improve the its range of services, more than triple places, the team remained committed to overall health of the its philanthropic revenue state, with the ultimate and double its donors. goal of elevating The institution is now a One of the things f rom my Louisiana’s overall health leader in many disciplines training that really stuck with me— ranking to 40 by 2030. of medicine, including “Long-term health and I learned this f rom Dr. John—is cancer research, robotic inequities due to race, surgery, organ transplants that you always have to do what’s ethnicity, gender or and blood and marrow low socioeconomic best for the patient, even if that’s transplants. status contribute to i n c o n v e n i e n t f o r y o u o r t a ke s a l i t t l e the poor health of our In the wake of Katrina, prompted by the loss of communities,” said extra effort. much of their medical Eboni Price-Haywood, — Michael Trotter, MD MD, MPH, FACP. She is a records staff, Ochsner General Internal Medicine also began improving its Specialist and the Medical Director for approach to technology. The healthcare putting patients first. the Ochsner Xavier Institute for Health system had already invented its own EMR Since then, Ochsner has brought Equity and Research (OXIHER). “This is a (Electronic Medical Record) system in the dedicated manpower, organized systems complex problem that requires careful late 1990s, and as early as 2009, it brought and unlimited compassion in the ongoing investigation and novel solutions.” direct-to-patient Telehealth services to battle against COVID-19. The team has Spearheaded by Dr. Price-Haywood the Gulf South. Additionally, Ochsner administered over 665,045 vaccines and Leo Seoane, MD, Ochsner Health’s launched innovationOchsner (iO) in 2015, statewide, making a massive undertaking Chief Academic Officer, OXIHER is which leverages technology and data to look easy. “I think the type of teams that leading the way for the Healthy State create digital healthcare solutions that can pull this off usually consist of fearless initiative, addressing Louisiana’s health prioritize patients, improving quality of inequity through research, education, people,” said Kiana Terrell, Ochsner’s Clinic initiatives, community engagement and care and reducing costs. Operations Manager, who played a leading advocacy. Critical to this initiative is the By rebuilding stronger, integrating role in coordinating the vaccine rollout. system’s emphasis on inclusivity, which tech solutions and expanding its vision, “We’re people who are just like, ‘Let’s get Ochsner added to its core values in 2022 Ochsner was prepared to meet the next this done by any means necessary.’” alongside Patients First, Compassion, challenges—even unprecedented ones.
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Integrity, Excellence and Teamwork.
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80 Years Later (continued f rom page 11)
Ochsner made this addition in response to feedback received in a listening session with staff, and change toward a more inclusive healthcare system is already underway. In 2020, Ochsner hired Deborah Grimes as the institution’s first-ever Chief Diversity Officer. “Since then, we’ve launched a number of employee resource groups representing the unique interests and needs of the diverse groups that make up the Ochsner staff. We’ve also hired Directors of Diversity and Inclusion for each region,” Dr. Price-Haywood said. “It is my hope that these efforts will result in a leadership team that reflects the communities we serve.”
Building a future on empathy and trust With 80 years of experience bringing compassion and gratitude to patients every single day, Ochsner Health has established itself as a renowned institution that’s worthy of trust.
Perhaps like many Gulf South residents who have evolved alongside Ochsner, Dr. Trotter is increasingly grateful for the institution’s unwavering presence and world-class care. “As I make the transition from healthcare provider to patient, I start looking at the physicians who will be taking care of me and my family,” he said. “It’s comforting that I have no doubt that Ochsner will be there for me, to provide whatever healthcare I might need in the future.” But to continue providing the highest quality, most equitable care, Ochsner looks to its community for support. “To achieve a healthier state, we need to better understand how we can serve all populations,” Dr. Price-Haywood said. “Our community can help by collaborating on missiondriven projects, connecting us with resources to promote engagement with marginalized populations and funding innovations in health equity.”
Eboni Price-Haywood, MD, MPH, FACP, Medical Director at OXIHER who is leading the effort to better understand and address health inequity in Louisiana. Photo: Stephen Legendre
To support Ochsner’s work toward Health Equity for all, please visit ochsner.org/ healthequity
To see Dr. Trotter in his own words, please scan this code to watch a video.
Youngest Patients (continued f rom page 7)
knows that your fetus has been exposed to opioids, talk to your OB to get your baby in this study,” Dr. England said. “Of course, there will be extensive follow-up care to ensure that the babies receive the best therapies we know for their condition.” Treatment for opioid withdrawal in infants can include common soothing techniques like swaddling or rocking, to more extreme treatment like medication to ease withdrawal symptoms. As one might imagine, treating infants suffering from drug withdrawal requires a tremendous amount of empathy, not only for the babies, but for the mothers as well. “Our attitude is, ‘We’re going to take care of your baby, but you’ve got to take care of you,’” Dr. Ginsberg said. “‘We got to get you back into treatment, we got to 12
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get you seen because we want to be able to discharge your baby with you. We don’t want your baby going to a foster family.’”
Donor support, intensive care, priceless little lives With neonatal studies often underfunded, philanthropic support can go a long way. Funding that helps support Ochsner’s research on weaning infants from opioids isn’t something that’s often advertised, or even discussed. “The NICU is not one of those places where you can put up a billboard and say, ‘Come have your baby with us,’” Dr. Ginsberg explained. “You can do that for labor and delivery, and you can do that for the pediatric unit because kids will have pneumonia or asthma. But nobody ever wants to have a one and a half pound
baby, let alone in an intensive care unit.”
Life-saving breakthroughs “People need to recognize that the cost of a day in a NICU is thousands of dollars,” Dr. Ginsberg said. “Even in the most benign type of situation where there’s no IV fluids, no IV medications, no oxygen, no nothing, you’re still looking at maybe $2,000 or $3,000 per day of a baby in an intensive care unit.” The goal, according to Dr. Ginsberg, is to either get the infants out of the NICU and home as early as possible, or move the babies to pediatric rooms for treatment where the costs drop to hundreds of dollars a day. No matter what circumstances they are born into, these tiny infants deserve a shot. Their lives, like all others, are priceless.
Healing Through Harmony How one man’s legacy offers hope to others through music By Olivia Watson | Photo: Stephen Legendre
Jennifer Hazelwood knew how to address an audience. After over 20 years as a teacher in Jefferson Parish’s public school system, she was a passionate educator and public speaker who later gave professional development seminars to auditoriums filled with teachers. She was also a talented ballerina, and coowner of a ballet studio. Language and music were central to her life.
therapy services for adults with neurological disorders. “Billy had an unmatched zest for life and made an impact on anyone he encountered,” Melissa said. “The program passes on the best parts of Billy so that he continues to inspire hope and healing both in life and
Similarly, William “Billy” Legier, Jr. had a successful career in real estate, first in Southern California and later in New Orleans, but one of his true passions was music. He loved singing at events with friends and family where he would often get everyone on their feet with his suave renditions of Bon Jovi, Neil Diamond and other popular singers. Jennifer’s story changed on June 19, 2021, when she suffered a life-threatening stroke. A few years prior, Billy’s life had similarly changed with a cancer diagnosis. “You can’t mince words when you have a diagnosis like this,” William Legier, Sr., Billy’s father, said of the moment. Billy was given a prognosis of 16 months. An X-ray of Jennifer’s brain showed that the left hemisphere, the area associated with speech production and articulation, was damaged. “We always had a deep faith and optimism that God would take care of her,” her father, Freddy Yoder, said.
in death.” Ongoing donations ensure that adult neurology patients can go to music therapy sessions for free.
Music therapy at Ochsner Neuroscience Institute Billy fought a courageous battle with glioblastoma, and passed away at age 47. “Billy received excellent care at Ochsner,” shared his mother, Melissa Legier. His family funds the music therapy program in honor of Billy’s life, legacy and love of music. Ochsner Neuroscience Institute is the only one of its kind in New Orleans that offers neurologic music
William and Melissa “Babydoll” Legier with photos of their son, Billy. To see the Legiers in their own words, please scan this code to watch a video.
Tuning into every patient’s needs After her stroke, Jennifer began intensive speech therapy, as well as occupational therapy to help her regain movement in her right side. “Jennifer can talk, but sometimes it’s hard for her to organize what she wants to say. She often uses a white board to write. She gets her message across one way or the other—she’s a determined lady,” Freddy shared with a laugh. And when Jennifer heard about the Music Therapy program at Ochsner’s Neuroscience Institute, she was determined to give it a try. “It’s wonderful that the Legiers donated for this program,” said Meredith Sharpe, Board-Certified Neurologic Music Therapist and leader of the program. “I think so often the arts are left out or overlooked as a viable therapeutic tool.” An evidence-based profession, music therapy uses interactive music experiences to improve or maintain cognitive functioning, communication, physical ability or social/emotional well-being. When patients listen to or make music, many areas of the brain are stimulated. The music’s elements, including rhythm, volume, tempo and
tone, have the potential to optimize non-musical brain function. “The ultimate goal is to improve patients’ lives and that can mean different things for everyone, depending on the diagnosis and what they need,” Meredith shared. One of Jennifer’s goals in recovery was saying her name again. “We regularly practiced neurologic music therapy techniques that incorporate deep breathing exercises, singing and the use of rhythm to cue speech production,” Meredith said. It worked. Jennifer can say her name again. Because of the music therapy that she receives at Ochsner, Jennifer is now able to articulate words and thoughts by singing them in a manner she was unable to before. “Jennifer’s new normal looks different. But she’s got her brain, her wit, her understanding,” Freddy said. “And her joy.” Jennifer is reclaiming her voice, one day at a time. Through written and verbal communication, Jennifer explained her journey: “I appreciate every day and everything so much more now. Someday I would like to help children with speech issues like myself. I don’t know God’s plan for me, but I’m doing my best to follow it and forge ahead on a new path.” To donate to the music therapy program at Ochsner Neuroscience Institute, please go to ochsner.org/legier o c h s n e r. o rg
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Mending Hearts and Minds Ochsner’s Heart Failure Transitional Care Clinic is empowering patients to take control of their health at home By Olivia Watson | Photos: Staci Brimer
When Rosalie Pietri began experiencing shortness of breath in November 2021, she assumed it was a side effect from one of her heart medications. Her doctor was aware of her existing heart condition, so they kept a watchful eye over her symptoms. But as her breathing worsened over the next few months, life became unmanageable. “I couldn’t walk from the front of my house to the back without taking a break,” Rosalie explained. “I couldn’t breathe. When I contacted my cardiologist, he decided I should go to the emergency room right away.” When she arrived at Ochsner Medical
Center - New Orleans, relief set in immediately. “From the minute I got there, the nurse in the emergency room assured me that everything would be okay. It was like I was the most important patient they had at the time.” Upon arrival, Rosalie received a blood and iron transfusion because of her anemia. She stayed overnight in the hospital, surrounded by her devoted team. “I don’t know where I could have received better care,” she said. Rosalie was diagnosed with heart failure, and entered Ochsner’s Heart Failure Transitional Care Clinic. After consulting with doctors and adjusting her
medications, she was cleared to go home if she felt comfortable.
Ochsner’s Heart Failure Transitional Care Clinic Designed to reduce hospital readmissions, the four-to-six week care clinic gives patients living with heart failure the tools and knowledge they need to manage their chronic illness and make smart choices on a daily basis. “Before I left the hospital, I was given a blood pressure cuff and symptom tracker, a pamphlet about the program and a phone number I could call at any time,” Rosalie explained. “They told me to expect a call from them in 46-72 hours.” To say this eased the transition from hospital to home was an understatement. “In the hospital, you feel safe and reassured that everything is going to be okay. But then all of a sudden you’re at home, alone, with lots of questions,” she said. “It was wonderful to know the team at Ochsner was only a phone call away.”
Empowering patients with tools and education
Rosalie Pietri, a graduate of the Heart Failure Clinic program, with her daughter Lisa Marcello.
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One of the greatest resources patients get from the clinic is its staff, and particularly Lisa Tichenor, a registered heart failure nurse who helped to launch the Heart Failure Transitional Care Clinic in October 2021. Lisa brings over 10 years of experience working with advanced heart failure patients to the program. “Our patients are dealing with physically
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Our patients are dealing with p h y s i c a l l y b r o ke n h e a r t s — b u t a l s o spiritual and mental heartbreak. O u r j o b i s t o e m p o w e r t h e m t o t a ke control of their heal th, so they can get back to living. — Lisa Tichenor
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their health and record regular updates in their chart. For providers, this data is invaluable to track progress, make adjustments to medication or advise dietary changes. These tools also have a profound impact on patient morale. “When we handed Rosalie using her digital medicine equipment to them out, it was like Christmas. manage her condition. The patients were shocked. The blood pressure cuffs and scales meant everything to them,” broken hearts—but also spiritual and Lisa T. shared. mental heartbreak. Our job is to empower “This is why donor support is so crucial. them to take control of their health, so they These tools can be the difference between can get back to living,” Lisa T. explained. life and death,” she explained. “A blood Once patients are established in pressure cuff and scale cost almost the program, they have a series of nothing, but it’s really the gift of success— appointments—either in-person or the opportunity for patients to take virtually—over the course of six weeks. In ownership over their care.” collaboration with Ochsner’s cardiologists, Setting patients up for dieticians and social workers, each long-term success patient receives a personalized care plan For Rosalie, the tools and education that includes education about lifestyle afforded to her by the clinic made all modifications and guidance on when to the difference. call with concerns. “At first, I was worried about having to None of this would be possible without fill out a chart every day, but it’s so helpful. support from the Heart Transplant Patient If I gained weight or if my blood pressure Assistance fund, which provides patients was too high, I could call the team at like Rosalie with blood pressure cuffs Ochsner right away. When I did call with and scales. concerns, they always helped me,” Rosalie By giving patients the tools to measure shared. “I don’t think I will ever stop filling their own blood pressure and weigh out this chart.” themselves daily, they can take control of
She has since graduated from Ochsner’s Heart Failure Transitional Clinic—with the certificate to prove it. “I am myself again,” she said. “I can go shopping, I go to work every day. My quality of life has improved.” For Rosalie’s family, the relief is unparalleled. “There’s no substitute for feeling like your mom is the most important patient in the hospital. You hear Ochsner healthcare is like no other— and we believe it. It was nothing short of amazing,” Rosalie’s daughter, Lisa M., shared. “Lisa Tichenor and Erin Picou from Ochsner are our angels.” While the program is transitional, that doesn’t mean that patient care ends after graduation. “We work closely with our cardiologists, as well as those outside of the Ochsner network, to provide the best care for our patients once they leave us. If they don’t have an established cardiologist, we help them find one,” Lisa T. explained. “But they also know they can always call us if they need something.” “At Ochsner, we help heart failure patients get their spark and spirit back— so they can go back into their communities and inspire the same in others,” Lisa T. explained. Now, Rosalie is able to do just that. To support the Heart Transplant Patient Assistance fund, please visit ochsner.org/hearttransplant
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In Brief
Thanks to your generous donations, various Ochsner funds have helped transform the lives of the most extraordinary patients. Here are a few of their stories. Colon Cancer Survivor Bob Williams Pays it Forward March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, and one Ochsner patient is doing whatever it takes to bring greater visibility to the disease. After a series of healthcare crises and a challenging battle with colon cancer, Bob Williams recently reached his five-year milestone post-surgery—and he’s still cancer-free. Bob credits the world-class care at Ochsner with his ongoing recovery. “At Ochsner, it was all handled so seamlessly. It was amazing,” he said. During his cancer treatment, Bob became interested in supporting the work of his physician, Charles Whitlow, MD, and colon cancer research at Ochsner. Bob and his wife, Norris, became faithful supporters of the Ochsner Cancer Institute, and their donations are helping to ensure that community members from all walks of life can benefit from Ochsner’s care. “Ochsner’s aggressive monitoring for a possible recurrence gives me peace of mind,” Bob said. “I know that if a problem should arise, Ochsner will be out ahead of it, instead of reacting
Bob and Norris Williams. Photo courtesy of Ochsner Philanthropy Special Events.
To see Bob in his own words, please scan this code to watch a video.
after symptoms arise. I take comfort in knowing that my financial support of Ochsner’s cutting-edge care makes such outstanding services available to a fortunate public.”
Honoring Ochsner Heroes On National Doctors’ Day
Ochsner Flight Care team prepares during Hurricane Ida in 2021. Photo: Della Hasselle
To see Excellence Fund recipients in their own words, please scan this code to watch a video.
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Each year, we celebrate National Doctors’ Day on March 30th to honor physicians whose dedication and skill have helped patients live fuller, healthier lives. Your gifts to honor your doctors support the Excellence Fund at Ochsner, which provided grants for 59 projects across Ochsner Health in 2021. One project increased our volume for neonatal transport. We assisted in evacuating three hospitals in Lake Charles during Hurricane Laura, transporting several neonates to New Orleans via ground ambulance. These were patients who would have been flown in a helicopter if we had the ability. With your Doctors’ Day gift, you helped ensure that babies in our care will have access to these critical resources in the future. Your support sends a strong message that no matter how grueling or uncertain circumstances may be, our heroes are never alone. To give in honor of your physician, please visit www.ochsner.org/doctorsday.
A Grandmother With a Lot of Heart Gets a Second Chance In 2017, Rochelle Lee, a sheriff’s deputy with eleven grandchildren, was having extreme difficulty breathing. When she saw her doctor, she learned that her heart was only functioning at 20 percent. She had complete blockage in one coronary artery, and surgery was likely necessary. But for Rochelle, who is raising three of her grandchildren, slowing down was not an option. “With my family, I can’t be sick. It’s like, if I’m sick, nothing gets done,” she said. Though typically Rochelle’s condition would require open heart surgery, she was eligible for a less invasive procedure thanks to the innovative vascular surgeons at Ochsner. As a patient in the John Ochsner Heart and Vascular Institute, Rochelle underwent a complex procedure called a Chronic Total Occlusion Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (CTO PCI), which places a stent in a completely blocked coronary artery. The successful procedure was performed in January 2018, and Rochelle was able to return home the next day. After retiring more than a year ago, Rochelle discovered she couldn’t just sit at home. She took a job as a hospital security guard, but still has enough time to enjoy her grandchildren. “Life is short,” said Rochelle. “I do what I want to do.”
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W i t h m y f a m i l y, I c a n ’ t b e s i c k . I t ’ s l i ke , i f I ’ m s i c k , nothing gets done. — Rochelle Lee
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Top right: Rochelle and her family, including her 105-year-old grandmother (Photo courtesy of Rochelle Lee). Bottom left: Rochelle and her grandson (Photo:Nick Shamblott). Bottom right: Rochelle Lee (Photo courtesy of Rochelle Lee)
To see Rochelle in her own words, please scan this code to watch a video.
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A Universal Hero: How One Woman Found Courage to Give Back Kaitlyn Seiler is facing her fear of needles to regularly give blood at Ochsner Blood Bank By Anne Elder
When COVID-19 swept across New Orleans in 2020, Kaitlyn Seiler was eager to find a way to help. Working in close proximity to first responders in Ochsner’s talent acquisition department, Kaitlyn felt called to support patients herself. Around the same time, she learned that a relative was diagnosed with
made it easier to commit to going into the clinic on a regular basis.” During one of her visits, a phlebotomist even held her hand while they put in the needle. After learning that she is a universal donor with type O positive blood, Kaitlyn became a regular donor. During one visit, she met the relative of a patient in need of a transplant who was asking
make this innovation possible. “I fill out the same forms every single time, and an electronic check-in would make the process so much easier for donors and the amazing phlebotomist who runs the show,” Kaitlyn said. For now, the generous support of blood donors like Kaitlyn helps patients through surgeries, transplants, chemo infusions and more. “Whenever I’m scared or anxious
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Once I trusted the staff would care for me and support me whenever I went in, it made it easier to commit to going into the clinic on a regular basis. — Kaitlyn Seiler
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Photo courtesy of Kaitlyn Seiler
a condition that can require regular blood transfusions. Kaitlyn did the formerly unthinkable: she put her lifelong fear of needles aside and donated blood at Ochsner Blood Bank. All of the blood collected at Ochsner’s donor centers and mobile drives helps patients in Southeast Louisiana, giving Kaitlyn the opportunity to support her friends, neighbors and community. “The staff was so supportive, kind and patient,” she said. “Once I trusted the staff would care for me and support me whenever I went in, it
donors to list her relative about donating, I remember that as the donation recipient. someone in the hospital is having a Kaitlyn obliged. much worse time than me,” she said. “I could see the stress “Because I am grateful and blessed and emotion she was to be healthy and strong, all I need to experiencing through this donate is a little courage.” whole ordeal,” Kaitlyn said. “It made me feel like I was really helping patients, just like I wanted to in the beginning.” For those intimidated to give blood, Kaitlyn recommends eating a big breakfast, staying hydrated and openly discussing any fears with the staff. In the future, an electronic records system that allows donors to give blood multiple times without filling out new forms will expedite the process. The Blood Bank Fund can help Photo: Staci Brimer
To support the many Ochsner patients in need of blood, please scan this code to donate to the Ochsner Blood Bank.
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Glimpses The Real-life Superheroes Supporting Ochsner Health Ochsner carried out safe and fun special events this past season. The ninth annual Moonlight and Miracles Gala featured compelling patient and clinician stories, an online auction and the drawing of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC winner. With community support and the help of the 2021 sponsors, Ochsner raised over $1.6 million for the patients and programs of the Ochsner Cancer Institute. And at a vaccine event for pediatric patients, Ochsner staff channeled their inner superheroes to the delight of patients. Check out some of the photos from the events.
Alex Harvie at the Moonlight & Miracles broadcast f ilming at Caesars Superdome, which raised $1.6M for Ochsner Cancer Institute. Photo: Ray Bender Photography
Sir Saint, Ollie Ochsner and Gumbo at the Moonlight & Miracles broadcast f ilming on November 5, 2021. Photo: Ray Bender Photography
Ochsner Hospital for Children providers at the vaccine event held in City Park on November 13, 2021. Photo: Elizabeth Burris
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March 12, 2022 Louisiana Children’s Museum New Orleans The f ifth annual Red Tie Affair will take place at the Louisiana Children’s Museum in New Orleans City Park. The event will feature entertainment by DPlay and honor Christopher White, MD, MACC, MSCAI, FAHA, FESC, FACP with the John Ochsner Heart and Vascular Institute Award of Excellence.
May 21, 2022 Mardi Gras World New Orleans The inaugural Imagination Gala will not only celebrate the incredible achievements of the clinicians of OHFC, but also raise funds to support the patients and create innovative advancements in pediatric healthcare. For more information about Philanthropy Special Events, please visit www.ochsner.org/specialevents
