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Spring 2023 HealthyLiving Morris Hospital Adds Two Family Nurse Practitioners 8 HarborChase of Plainfield Offers Diverse Health and Wellness Programs 9 Orthopedic Surgeon Shares His Own Knee Replacement Journey 10 Free Morris Hospital/ YMCA Exercise Class Improves Parkinson’s Symptoms 11 Complex Brain Tumor Surgery at Silver Cross 2 BMI Surgery at Silver Cross 4 Eterna MedSpa Varicose and Spider Veins 5 TAVR Surgery and Heart Scans at Silver Cross 6 & 7 Inside

Complex Brain Tumor Surgery at Silver Cross Helps New Lenox Grandmother Resume Active Life

Edna Teodoro felt off during her recent Hawaiian vacation. She had bad headaches and memory issues.

When she returned home to New Lenox, her husband urged her to see a doctor. The retired bank analyst, 79, insisted she was fine.

A few weeks later, in June 2022, her daughter-in-law overheard her struggling with her speech during a phone call to a grandson. She immediately took Teodoro to the emergency room.

MRI and CT scans found a golf ball-sized tumor deep in Teodoro’s brain. The tumor was benign, but the swelling had impacted her cognitive function.

The next day, the grandmother of five had a craniotomy to remove the tumor at Silver Cross Hospital in New Lenox, just a few miles from her home.

The complex, six-hour surgery was performed by UChicago Medicine brain tumor specialist and neurosurgeon Peleg Horowitz, MD, PhD, a member of the expanding team of UChicago Medicine neuroscience experts treating patients at Silver Cross.

In the past, Teodoro would have needed to travel to UChicago Medicine’s main hospital in Hyde Park for a complicated brain surgery. Now, that same high quality

of care is available closer to home, thanks to a collaboration between UChicago Medicine and Silver Cross.

The collaboration is bringing nationally ranked experts and a full range of technologies and treatments to Will County so patients can have high-level neurological cancer care, stroke care and neurosurgery. The two hospitals already collaborate in other areas, including cancer care.

“You get the benefits of the Hyde Park surgeons, radiation doctors and oncologists out in the southwest suburbs. A lot of my patients who live out here find it much more convenient,” Horowitz said.

Silver Cross’s neurosciences team consists of Horowitz, neurosurgeon Paramita Das, MD, MS, vascular neurologist Tareq KassHout, MD, and neuroradiologist Michael Hurley, MBBCh, among other oncologists and radiation oncologists. Silver Cross performs up to 100 brain tumor surgeries each year and that number is expected to increase. To meet demand, more tumor specialists will join the Silver Cross team in early 2023, Horowitz said.

After her surgery, Teodoro spent four weeks in the hospital and underwent her rehabilitation at Silver Cross. The program included speech therapy, since she lost her voice for two weeks, and physical therapy

to help her relearn to swallow and eat.

Four months later, her head feels a little tender where her stitches were, Teodoro said. Otherwise, she is doing great. She spends lots of time with her tight-knit family and is back singing at her church.

She also hopes to resume her charity work in her native Philippines.

“By the grace of God, I survived this brain tumor. I think God wants me to do more,” she said.

The New Lenox resident returned to Silver Cross in October to bring thank-you gifts to the nurses and rehabilitation staff who helped her recover. There were tears and applause.

“They were hugging me and saying, ‘Oh, look at you!’” she said. “Those women were all so nice and they did everything for me. They would brush my hair, give me a bath, give me fresh clothes or bring me more blankets. Whatever I needed.”

While some of Teodoro’s cognition and memory may never fully return, Horowitz said her prognosis is good.

“If you remove these tumors completely, they’re usually cured and unlikely to return. We’ll be watching with MRIs for the rest of her life,” he said.

For more information, visit silvercross.org

2 | Healthy Living | Saturday, February 25, 2023
Edna Teodoro, 79, of New Lenox, meets with her University of Chicago Medicine neurosurgeon, Peleg Horowitz, MD, PhD, at Silver Cross Hospital.

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Our quick, painless heart scan uses high-speed CT scanning to measure calcium deposits in your heart. It's ideal for men over age 45 and women over age 55 who smoke, have high blood pressure, high cholesterol or a family history of premature coronary artery disease.

Fi nd out your risk and what you can do to lower it. To schedule an appointment, scan the QR code below or visit silvercross.or g/hear t - scan.

Saturday, February 25, 2023 | Healthy Living | 3

Weight-Loss Surgery: BMI Surgery at Silver Cross is Tops in Outcomes and Experience

Obesity is an epidemic that affects nearly 1 out of 3 American adults. It also affects their families, the people they work with and those who will have to care for them if they become unable to care for themselves.

With a demonstrated track record of outstanding outcomes in weight-loss surgery, BMI Surgery and Silver Cross Hospital’s weight-loss surgery program has received national accreditation from the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP). The program has also been recognized as a Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois Blue Distinction Center for Bariatric Surgery for our demonstrated track record of outstanding outcomes in weight-loss surgery.

Certified by the American Board of Surgery, Dr. Lahmann received his medical degree from the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine. He completed a general surgery residency at the University of Kentucky where he was recognized with several awards. Dr. Lahmann completed a laparoscopic and bariatric surgery fellowship at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, CA.

Specially trained in bariatric and minimally invasive surgical procedures, Dr. Lahmann is a past winner of the Society of American Gastrointestinal Endoscopic Surgeons’ Laparoscopic Skills Competition as well as the Society of Laparoscopic Surgeons TOP GUN Laparoscopic Skills Competition. He lectures nationally and has published several articles on laparoscopic and bariatric surgery. Dr. Lahmann co-founded and developed BMI Surgery at Silver Cross Hospital in 2004. Dr. Lahmann has consistently been recognized as a top physician at Silver Cross Hospital for ranking in the Top 1% of physicians in the nation for outstanding patient satisfaction.

Our program, which is celebrating 20 years and more than 8,500 surgeries in 2023, offers the latest and safest bariatric surgical procedures including:

• Laparoscopic Gastric Bypass

• Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy

• Revisional Bariatric Surgery

What’s more, our comprehensive program includes a full screening with renowned bariatric surgeons — Dr. Brian Lahmann, Dr. Joe Northup and other medical specialists, pre- and post-procedure diet and exercise instruction, a monthly support group, and tools to promote an ongoing healthy lifestyle.

Dr. Joe Northup has nearly 20 years of experience as a renowned bariatric surgeon.

Certified through the American Board of Surgery, Dr. Northup completed his residency at the Medical College of Ohio at Toledo as well as an advanced laparoscopic and bariatric fellowship at the University of Virginia.

He is a Fellow of the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS), the American College of Surgeons and American Society of Bariatric Surgeons. Dr. Northup was featured in an article in the Wall Street Journal for outstanding patient follow-up and was elected by fellow surgeons as President of the ASMBS Ohio-Kentucky Chapter from 2013-2016.

In 2020, he received the Ohio Top Doctor and Best Bariatric Surgeon awards, and in 2021 received the ASMBS Distinguished Service Award. Dr. Northup specializes in laparoscopic bariatric procedures including laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy, laparoscopic Roux-n-Y gastric bypass and bariatric revisional procedures. Dr. Northup is known for his personable, caring manner.

For more information, visit silvercross.org/bmiBariatric & Minimally Invasive Surger y

Professional Medical PROFILE UNIQUE INDIVIDUALS WHO PROVIDE SPECIALIZED MEDICAL SERVICES
Bariatric & Minimally Invasive Surger y
Brian Lahmann, MD, FACS Bariatric Surgeon
4 | Healthy Living | Saturday, February 25, 2023
Joe Northup, MD, FACS Bariatric Surgeon

What You Should Know About Varicose & Spider Veins

When it comes to varicose veins, putting off medical attention is not an option. That’s because left untreated, they can worsen over time. Just some of the symptoms associated with varicose veins include swelling, aching, cramping, fatigue, heaviness, itching and burning. In more serious situations, varicose vein disease can lead to the formation of a blood clot. Here are a few things Kathe Malinowski, lead esthetician and marketing manager for Eterna MedSpa & Laser Vein Center, wants you to know about varicose veins and their treatment:

1. Modern treatments mean no downtime

There are several effective options for combatting the condition, including Laser spider vein treatment, Sclerotherapy and Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA). They can be done in-office under local anesthesia. That means no downtime for the patient. “After your treatment you walk out of your appointment and encouraged to walk a lot through the day,” Malinowski said.

2. Don’t wait – A simple ultrasound can diagnose

An ultrasound can help determine what the best treatment plan is for your vein disease. Schedule an appointment today with Eterna MedSpa & Laser Vein Center for your Complimentary vein screening.

3. Ways to help prevent varicose and spider veins

Elevate your legs, Use compression Stockings. Exercise regularly – Gentle walking works best. Give up the high heels. Eat a low salt, Healthy Diet.

4. Age doesn’t matter

Varicose veins are equal opportunity offenders. “Men and women alike can get them as early as their mid-20’s. Although the risk goes up as you age. At Eterna MedSpa, we treat Men and women of all ages “ Malinowki said.

Eterna MedSpa & Laser Vein Center

217 Vertin Boulevard Shorewood, 60404

815.254.8888

https://www.eternalaser.com/

Saturday, February 25, 2023 | Healthy Living | 5 Start the Year with Healthy Legs take the next step toward a Healthier You! We Specialize in the Treatment of Varicose and Spider Veins Trust an Expert! Laser spider vein treatment Sclerotherapy Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) Call 815-254-8888 Today! Free Vein Screenings217 Vertin Blvd. Shorewood, IL 60404 815-254-8888 www.eternalaser.com SM-CL2052540

Silver Cross Volunteer Back At It Following TAVR Surgery

AAs a volunteer in the Cardiac Catheterization Lab at Silver Cross Hospital in New Lenox, Tom Magdziasz, 75, doesn’t let his age slow him down. He transports patients around in wheelchairs from station to station, all the while cracking jokes to help keep up the spirits of those who have a lot on their minds.

“I’ll feel them out a little bit to make sure it’s OK to kid around,” said Magdziasz of Frankfort. “I’m pretty good at gauging my audience.” But last summer, he noticed it was getting tougher to push patients around the lab, getting out of breath more easily.

“I had an echocardiogram, and it showed I had a valve narrowing. My cardiologist thought I would be a good candidate for Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR), but he didn’t perform them.

“Luckily, I knew someone who did.”

Magdziasz would see and joke around with Dr. Francisco Yun, an interventional cardiologist on staff at Silver Cross. Dr. Yun had implanted a stent for Magdziasz three years ago, and while volunteering, he had seen a lot of TAVR patients come in and go out happy since the hospital began offering the procedure nearly two years ago.

“We have been doing TAVR procedures here at Silver Cross for almost two years,” said Dr. Yun. “TAVR has improved quality of life and prolonged it for those who qualify for the procedure. I’ve performed them for patients in their 90s.”

WHAT IS TAVR?

Dr. Ravi Ramana, the Medical Director of Silver Cross’s Structural Heart Program, explained the procedure:

“TAVR is performed by inserting a catheter about the size of a pen through an artery in the leg and

up into the heart. A new tissue heart valve is then implanted inside the narrowed valve, resulting in a normal functioning valve. There’s no medication to relieve severe aortic stenosis; no WD-40 to keep that valve working. It’s either open heart surgery or TAVR.”

“This improves the patient’s symptoms and takes the excess strain and stress off the heart muscle,” said Dr. Phil Alexander, a heart surgeon on the TAVR team. “For those who are good candidates, TAVR avoids the need for opening the patient’s chest and putting them on a heart-lung machine.”

Dr. Yun said Magdziasz was a good candidate –in general good health and blood vessels large enough to send the catheter through. Severe aortic stenosis means the valve between the lower left heart chamber and the body’s main artery (aorta) is narrowed and doesn’t open fully, blocking or reducing blood flow from the heart to the aorta and to the rest of the body.

Drs. Yun, Ramana and Alexander performed the TAVR procedure on Magdziasz in late August 2022.

“Tom was out of the hospital in two days, and his follow-up appointments have been great,” Dr. Yun said. “I’ll see him back in the lab now volunteering.”

Magdziasz said he was back volunteering within a few weeks of the surgery.

“Dr. Yun is great. He’s very patient and explains everything very well. The nurses were very caring and responsive to all of my needs. They are the backbone of Silver Cross Hospital, and that is why patients really love coming to Silver Cross. And TAVR is amazing. If your doctor tells you that you need heart valve replacement, don’t wait. It will save your life.”

For more information about heart care at Silver Cross, visit silvercross.org/heart

Dr. Francisco Yun Dr. Ravi Ramana
6 | Healthy Living | Saturday, February 25, 2023
Dr. Phil Alexander Tom is the picture of health as he enjoys the company of Silver Cross Hospital’s Jennifer Leake, BSN, Charge Nurse; Kele Somerville, BSN, Interventional Suite; and Katie Lowe, Manager, Interventional Suite and EKG/Echo Department.

Silver Cross $49 Heart Scans Identify Problems and Save Lives

Alocal couple was driving through Lockport last year when they received a sign from above…literally!

Sharon (who preferred not to use her last name) and her husband were driving down 159th Street when they saw a billboard advertising Silver Cross Hospital’s $49 Heart Scan.

“It was one of those big electronic signs,” she explains. “I told my husband, ‘Let’s get one of those tests for the heck of it.’ Good thing. I learned I had a lot of blockages in my heart that I didn’t know about.”

Rich Antonini of Lisle thought he was in pretty good shape for someone entering his mid-60s: no pain; no shortness of breath. His weight was good. But he also knew his parents both had heart issues requiring surgery, and he was the last of his siblings to go on medicine for an elevated cholesterol level.

The nudge to get a heart scan at Silver Cross came when his brother-in-law had bypass surgery, prompting Rich’s wife Pam to sign up for a scan.

WHAT IS A HEART SCAN?

Calcium artery scoring is a quick, painless exam that uses high-speed CT scanning to measure calcium deposits in the heart. It’s ideal for men over age 45 and women over age 55 who smoke, have high blood pressure, high cholesterol or a family history of premature coronary artery disease.

The scan produces a score that identifies the level of calcium deposits. A higher score means you have more plaque in your coronary arteries, putting you at greater risk for a heart attack. “My wife required medication,” Antonini explains. “That led me to get mine checked. My score was 888. It’s supposed to be in the 100s or under. That wasn’t good.”

Both Sharon and Rich followed up with Dr. Joseph Stella, an interventional cardiologist with Heart Care Centers of Illinois and Chairman of Cardiology at Silver Cross. More tests showed they both had blockages so severe stents were out of the question.

“We’ve had dozens of patients who’ve had the heart scan and ended up needing angioplasty, stents or coronary artery bypass graft surgery,” Dr. Stella explains. “The scan helps identify patients who are at risk and really want to get an early start and try to prevent the progression of heart disease.”

Within weeks of their heart scans at Silver Cross, Sharon and Antonini both had heart bypass surgeries at Silver Cross, followed by cardiac rehabilitation for three months.

Both are doing great and eager to spread the word about the scan.

HIDDEN DANGERS

“That heart scan at Silver Cross was worth its weight in gold,” said Sharon, 78, mother of three, grandmother of five

and great-grandmother of three. “It can give you back your life that you didn’t even realize was in danger.”

Rich, now 65, said he never had any issues, and even helped his son take down a backyard pool on an unseasonably hot day last April, the day before his test.

“From the time of the scan to my quadruple bypass was just eight weeks,” said Rich, who has an IT support company with several partners. “Then I was in the hospital recovering for nearly a week. I did the cardiac therapy three times a week for three months. They start you out slow. They were all great there, too. You get to know them well going there that often.”

After hearing about what the Silver Cross heart scan did for him, Rich said about a dozen people he knows said they were going to get one too. He emphasizes it was so easy and quick.

“Also, my kids know now it’s something they need to be aware of. That’s very important,” he added. “Others should know they should get one done, especially if they have heart issues in their family. Don’t wait.”

WHO SHOULD GET A SCAN?

Those who should consider the heart scan at Silver Cross include individuals with:

• A family history of heart disease

• High cholesterol

• High blood pressure

• A smoking habit

• Are physically inactive

• Diabetic

• Overweight

• Men over 45

• Women over 55 (post-menopausal)

Sharon said people shouldn’t be afraid to get the test. Not only is the cost reasonable, but it’s quick and can give you at the very least, peace of mind.

“If the test is fine, then you’re good to go, and you don’t need to worry. If there’s a problem, Silver Cross can fix it,” she added.

To learn more about the Silver Cross Heart Scan or schedule a test online, visit silvercross.org/heart-scan.

Saturday, February 25, 2023 | Healthy Living | 7
Rich Antonini and wife Pam
Bariatric & Minimally Invasive
Dr. Joseph Stella

Morris Hospital Adds Two Family Nurse Practitioners in Morris

Get the skinny on triglycerides

levels.

Morris Hospital & Healthcare Centers has added two family nurse practitioners to offices in Morris.

Both new family nurse practitioners are excellent resources for routine check-ups, preventive medicine, immunizations and physicals, illness and injuries, nutrition and lifestyle counseling, and health risk assessments for children, adolescents, adults and seniors.

Diana Olsen serves as a primary care provider for patients of all ages and is currently accepting new patients at the Morris Healthcare Center of Morris Hospital, 1300 W. Dresden Dr.

Having previously worked at the Morris Hospital Yorkville Campus, Olsen has more than 12 years of experience as a registered nurse, including four years of experience as a family nurse practitioner in family practice and urgent care environments. She also has a clinical interest in treating diabetes.

Olsen received her master’s degree in nursing and Family Nurse Practitioner certificate from Lewis University in Romeoville. She has a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Lewis University and a bachelor’s degree in biology from Northern Illinois University. Appointments with Olsen can be scheduled by calling 815-942-5200.

Julie Sieling serves as a primary care provider for patients ages 2 and up and is currently accepting new patients at the Morris Healthcare Center of Morris Hospital, 948 W. U.S. Route 6.

Prior to becoming a nurse practitioner in 2010, Sieling worked as a registered nurse in various roles in the hospital setting for 17 years. She received her master’s degree in nursing and Family Nurse Practitioner certificate from Rush University. She also has a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Olivet Nazarene University. Additionally, she is board certified by the American Association of Nurse Practitioners and am also a certified Breast Patient Navigator.

Appointments with Sieling can be scheduled by calling 815-9425474.

Serving patients at 27 locations, Morris Hospital & Healthcare Centers includes the 89-bed Morris Hospital, as well as physician offices in Braidwood, Channahon, Diamond, Dwight, Gardner, Marseilles, Mazon, Minooka, Morris, Newark, Seneca and Ottawa.

For more information, visit www.morrishospital.org

While cholesterol is a familiar term, triglycerides may be more of a mystery to the average Joe.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, triglycerides are lipids (waxy fats) that provide energy to the body. The body produces triglycerides and also gets them through food. Triglycerides are actual fats, while cholesterol is a waxy, odorless substance made by the liver. Since cholesterol cannot mix or dissolve in the blood, the liver puts cholesterol together with triglycerides to move the fatty mixture (lipoproteins) throughout the body.

When a person eats, any extra calories not used for energy are converted into triglycerides, which are stored in fat cells. Later, hormones release these triglycerides as energy between meals. Individuals who regularly eat more calories than they burn, particularly from high-carbohydrate foods, may have high triglycerides.

According to the Mayo Clinic, high triglyceride levels may contribute to a hardening or thickening of the arteries, which is a condition known as arteriosclerosis.

For healthy adults, normal triglyceride levels should be under 150 mg/dL. Values of 151 to 200 mg/dL are considered borderline high, and anything over 201 is high or very high. In addition to arteriosclerosis, high triglyceride levels can raise the risk of cardiovascular disease and pancreatitis.

Overeating, having a family history of high cholesterol, drinking alcohol to excess, being overweight or obese, and having unmanaged diabetes can contribute to high cholesterol levels. Smoking, the presence of thyroid disease and certain medications, like diuretics and hormones, also may raise the risk of developing high triglyceride levels.

Lifestyle changes similar to those recommended to manage high cholesterol can help people lower their triglyceride levels. These include eating a nutritious diet, doing aerobic exercises regularly and maintaining a moderate weight. Individuals should avoid simple carbohydrates, such as those made with white flour, fructose, trans fats, and hydrogenated oils or fats.

Low triglyceride levels are not typically a cause for concern. But in these instances malnutrition or malabsorption could be the culprit.

Individuals should undergo routine health screenings to determine if high triglycerides are part of their lipid panels.

8 | Healthy Living | Saturday, February 25, 2023
Julie Sieling Diana Olsen

HarborChase of Plainfield Offers Diverse Health and Wellness Programs

With a wealth of luxurious amenities, diverse culinary options in five on-site restaurants, and engaging activities, HarborChase of Plainfield sets the standard for senior living. Located just an hour’s drive from Chicago, the luxury senior living community bridges the gap between assisted living and memory care with exceptional hospitality and sophistication – and a genuine emphasis on personal health and wellness.

The mission of HarborChase and its associates is to celebrate senior living every day – creating a community in which they themselves envision living. With exercise and movement playing an essential role in the aging process and an individual’s overall health, the award-winning Life Enrichment Program provides HarborFit classes ranging from meditation and yoga to sports and cardio. The Life Enrichment program was created to provide a variety of daily events, including cognitive, spiritual, movement, and socialization. Ensuring residents have fun, feel great, and look forward to each day is paramount to the program.

In addition to vast amenities and resort-style living, residents enjoy a complete combination of convenience and care with associates available around the clock, seven days a week. Residents receive the appropriate level of care and support needed for their personal lifestyle to nurture and maintain their independence.

HarborChase of Plainfield invites guests to experience HarborChase hospitality with a personalized Taste & Tour. For more information and to schedule your personalized tour, please contact Gary Dobos, Executive Director at 815-267-3510.

HarborChase of Plainfield

12446 S. Van Dyke Road • Plainfield, IL 60585 HarborChase.com

Saturday, February 25, 2023 | Healthy Living | 9 Plainfield
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Orthopedic surgeon shares his own knee replacement journey

If anyone should ever ask, Dr. Raymond Meyer can now attest to his patients that, in fact, he has felt life-altering arthritic knee pain, experienced the surgery and pushed himself through physical therapy. In a way, he has walked in their shoes.

“I have a completely different appreciation for the patient,” Dr. Meyer says. “I’m not saying you need to go through it to empathize, but it was certainly a lesson learned for me.”

A board-certified orthopedic surgeon with Morris Hospital Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, Dr. Meyer recently decided that the arthritic knee pain he battled for years was simply becoming too much to fight through. On Dec. 2, 2022, he turned to his trusted colleague Dr. Keith Rezin for a Total Knee Replacement on his left knee – a procedure that Dr. Meyer himself has performed many times on patients in the past.

Eight weeks following the surgery, shortly after finishing his final physical therapy session, Dr. Meyer reflected on the experience and his new perspective on the patient’s journey.

“Having had the surgery has enhanced my qualities as a surgeon,” says Dr. Meyer, who has worked as an orthopedic and sports medicine physician for more than 26 years. “It adds just an overall general knowledge of what the patient is experiencing. It gives me a completely different perspective from the patient’s standpoint that

will help me empathize and hopefully be a better physician and surgeon.”

At 58 years old, Dr. Meyer had experienced knee troubles dating back to his days as a football player in high school and college. He had the cartilage removed in both knees back then, a practice not typically done today and a likely reason why his knee condition worsened over the years.

Over the years, Dr. Meyer learned to live with knee pain. While he always knew a knee replacement was likely in his future, it wasn’t until about six months ago when he simply couldn’t ignore the problem anymore. The left knee quickly worsened, growing more painful, becoming crooked and causing him to lose an inch in height.

“It went downhill fast,” Dr. Meyer said. “Within like six or eight months, it really deteriorated. It just kept getting worse and worse and more debilitating.”

He first tried a cortisone shot to numb

the pain, but that didn’t seem to offer him much relief. Knowing as a physician all that’s involved with surgery, Dr. Meyer then weighed the time he would have to miss from work and the rehabilitation required after the surgery in comparison to the much needed relief he desperately sought for his knee. He knew it was time.

“I couldn’t have postponed it for another couple months,” Dr. Meyer says. “You get to a point where you know it’s time, and I knew it was time. I couldn’t keep going the way I was going.”

When the decision was made, Dr. Meyer turned to the physician and team he trusted most for his surgery and physical therapy, the very people he works with at Morris Hospital Orthopedics & Sports Medicine. He has known Dr. Rezin since he was a senior medical student and today considers him a good friend.

Dr. Rezin performs upwards of 150 knee replacement surgeries each year and uses the Signature Knee Replacement System, which is known for a quicker, less painful recovery than a traditional knee replacement.

“I’ve always respected Dr. Rezin,” Dr. Meyer says. “He’s an excellent surgeon. He’s very bright. He cares about his patients. I knew Keith would do a good job.”

Another benefit was that Dr. Meyer qualified to have his knee replacement performed as an outpatient at Deerpath Ambulatory Surgical Center, a joint venture between Morris Hospital and area physi-

10 | Healthy Living | Saturday, February 25, 2023
Dr. Raymond Meyer and Dr. Keith Rezin

cians. Three days after the surgery, he started physical therapy just down the hall from his Morris office.

Dr. Meyer admits that the first couple weeks of healing and being limited in movement were tough physically and mentally. Yet even while his knee was swollen and stiff in the days following surgery, he was amazed that the pain in his knee was instantly better.

“I got so used to living with arthritis, maybe that’s why I didn’t have much pain afterwards,” Dr. Meyer says. “I had the relief. Even though I didn’t have the strength and was swollen and bruised, I

didn’t have that pain anymore.”

As the days passed, things got easier and easier. In physical therapy, Dr. Meyer formed a bond with the physical therapists and other patients, some of whom he had even performed surgery on days before undergoing his own surgery. He is still building confidence with stairs and icy surfaces, but the overall pain in his knee is minimal.

About five weeks into his rehabilitation, Dr. Meyer returned to work and started seeing patients in the office. By the first of February, he returned to emergency room call and was back in the operating room

performing scheduled orthopedic surgeries.

Being an orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Meyer admits he did have an advantage by knowing the keys to recovering from knee replacement surgery. He is proud of the progress he’s made, but knows more is still needed.

“I knew that I had to push through this,” Dr. Meyer says. “The hardest thing is going to get back to the level I was at, but that’s just going to take some more healing time.”

For more information got to Morrishospital.org

Free Morris Hospital/YMCA Exercise Class Improves Parkinson’s Symptoms

Morris Hospital and the Morris Community YMCA offer a free Pedaling for Parkinson’s class that is designed to help individuals with Parkinson’s disease optimize their physical function by improving their gait, balance, speech, handwriting, and overall endurance.

Taught by Morris Hospital Wellness staff with support from physical therapists, classes meet on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 1-2 p.m. at the former LivFit studio, 109 E. Jefferson Street, Morris. Participants must receive approval from their doctor prior to attending.

Research conducted at the Cleveland Clinic found that individuals with Parkinson’s can experience a 35 percent reduction in symptoms by riding an indoor stationary bicycle for one hour three days a week. While cycling is not a cure for Parkinson’s disease, there is compelling evidence that shows pedaling a bicycle at a rapid pace may change the life of someone living with Parkinson’s disease.

To register, call the Morris Community YMCA at 815-5138080.

Saturday, February 25, 2023 | Healthy Living | 11

What are you doing about your heart disease risk factors?

High blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, and family history are all risk factors that increase your chance of having a heart attack or stroke.

The board-certi ed cardiologists with Morris Hospital

Cardiovascular Specialists are experts in helping you manage heart disease risk factors.

Syed Ahmed, M.D., Mary Menz, D.O., Athar Saeed, M.D. and Sherese Pruss, N.P.

If you have risk factors for heart disease or any concerns about your heart health, call 815-705-1000.

Convenient o ce locations in Morris, Channahon, Dwight and Ottawa.

12 | Healthy Living | Saturday, February 25, 2023 www.morrishospital.org/cvspecialists

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