Otsego Health & Life Spring 2009 issue

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Spring 2009 / $3.95

health&life T H E

G O O D

L I V I N G

M A G A Z I N E

f r o m

O T S E G O

M E M O R I A L

H O S P I TA L

GOODBYE, SHOULDER PAIN

Worry-free imaging

BY THE NUMBERS:

Health facts & figures to live by

In praise of PEONIES

Plus 4 tips for you mammogramr

2009 Events May - July Parent Education Childbirth Preparation Monday Night Sessions: June 15 July 27, 6:30 - 9 p.m.

Weekend: July 25, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Expectant parents learn breathing and relaxation techniques, as well as, medical pain mgt., breastfeeding, infant care, labor and birth. Cost is $45 or Health Department voucher.

General Community Education Family & Friends CPR Course A 3-hour training for the general public. CPR skills for infants, children and adults. In the OMH classroom.

Cost $15 or $25/couple.

Heartsaver Pediatric First Aid & CPR Course Intended for persons other than healthcare providers who need CPR & First Aid training as a job requirement.

May 20, 5-10 pm in the OMH Classroom. Cost $60.

BLS for Healthcare Providers (Full Course & Renewal) For healthcare providers who need CPR certification as a requirement. Cost $50 for non-employees (includes required textbook). In the OMH classroom.

Heart Health Screening Requires finger-stick blood sample & 24-hour fasting to test for total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, triglycerides and glucose as well as blood pressure and BMI. Held the first Thursday of every month. Appointment required. Cost $20.

To register for a program, or for more information call OMH Community Health Education at 989-731-2193.

The American Heart Association strongly promotes knowledge and proficiency in BLS, ACLS and PALS and has developed instructional materials for this purpose. Use of these materials in an educational course does not represent course sponsorship by the American Heart Association, and any fees charged for such a course do not represent income to the Association.

002_OTS_SPRING09.indd 2

Car Seat Safety Inspection May 21, 1 - 5 p.m. Call for location.

Sibling Preparation Saturday, May 9; 10 - 11:30 a.m.

For children ages 3-10 years of age.

Parents are requested to accompany their children. Cost is $10 per child/ max $25 per family.

To register for a parent education program or for more information call OMH Parent Educator at 989-7312124.

Support Groups Mother to Mother May 14 & 28, June 11 & 25, July 9 & 23 from 10-11:30 a.m. in the PMB Conference Room. Call 989-731-2124 for more info.

Bereavement Wednesdays at 5 p.m. in the OMH Professional Medical Building Conference Room. Call 800-252-2065 for info.

Cancer Support May 29, June 26, July 31 at noon in the OMH Oncology Center, 701 N. Otsego Ave. Call 989-731-7760 for info.

Organ Transplant June 4 at 6 p.m. in the PMB Conference Room. Call 989-983-4188 for info.

Stroke Last Friday of each month at 2 p.m.

Held in the OMH Professional Medical Building Conference Room. Call 989731-2341 for info.

Special Events

Kick Off Event May 13, 6:30 p.m.

Come to the Otsego County Sportsplex to learn more about a program designed to get northern Michigan communities moving for 100 straight days this summer. Walk, jog, dance, garden, just move your way to fitness this summer! There will be free ice skating ($1 for rental skates) and $1 swimming at the kick off event! For more info visit the Let’s Get Moving website at www.lgmnm.org, or call 989-731-2193.

Bone Marrow Donor Drive June 6 & 7 Register to be a bone marrow donor and one day you may save a life!

Join us at the Otsego County Relay For Life Event at the Otsego County Fairgrounds. Marrow registrants will be asked to provide a few swabs from the inside of the mouth and will need to complete a brief health questionnaire. There is no blood draw or cost to you! Donors must be between 18-60 years of age and meet health guidelines. For more info call 989-731-2193.

Otsego Memorial Hospital 825 N. Center Avenue Gaylord, MI 49735 Toll Free Number (800) 322-3664 For more information please visit our website at

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Contents

14

12

health&life

THE GOOD LIVING MAGAZINE from OTSEGO MEMORIAL HOSPITAL

8 Spring 2009

4 Welcome letter 5 For the record By the numbers Notable health-related facts and figures

6 Clinical update Goodbye, shoulder pain For this flexible, injury-prone joint, arthroscopy may be the answer.

8 Technology today Worry-free imaging Radiology plays a vital role in diagnosing illnesses.

9 Better care 4 tips for your mammogram How to be sure you get the best read

10 Profiles in caring New faces, big passion Freshly arrived in the area, these physicians bring a special zeal for the community.

11 Glorious food Golden moment The season for apricots is short, but sweet.

12 In bloom In praise of peonies Give your garden some springtime pop with this popular perennial.

14 Friends of Otsego Giving that makes a difference One man’s mastery of his diabetes began with a solid foundation.

COVER IMAGE : MASTERFILE

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health&life

Welcome LETTER

THE GOOD LIVING MAGAZINE from OTSEGO MEMORIAL HOSPITAL

Bringing you the best in healthcare WE ARE PLEASED TO PRESENT THIS INAUGURAL issue of Otsego Health & Life, focusing on some of the most exciting advances and trends in healthcare. We hope this magazine will serve as a guide for you and your family as you OTSEGO STAFF CEO THOMAS R . LEMON

president, board of directors MARY SANDERS

marketing director

continue to focus on your health and healthcare in 2009 and beyond.

In this and upcoming issues, Otsego Memorial Hospital staff joins with physicians from around the country to discuss the latest treatments available at healthcare organizations nationally as well as locally.

ESTHER BEERY

At Otsego Memorial Hospital, providing the highest graphic design/journalism specialist KIMBERLY RULEY

level of quality healthcare for the community is our No. 1 priority. As a progressive, fully accredited acute care hospital, we

foundation director CHRISTIE PERDUE

are proud of our mission to partner with area physicians to provide patient-focused care with quality and services second

special events/database assistant SARA FREEMAN

to none.

Otsego Memorial Hospital provides a broad range of ser-

WAINSCOT STAFF editor in chief RITA GUARNA

art director SARAH LECKIE

vices to inpatients and outpatients each year. For additional examples, read this special issue of Otsego Health & Life, as well as the other three issues published each year, all full of inspiring examples of the exemplary healthcare available to residents of northern Michigan.

senior editor TIMOTHY KELLEY

managing editor JENNIFER CENICOLA

assistant editor KRISTIN COLELLA

Otsego Health & Life is published by Wainscot Media, 110 Summit Avenue, Montvale, NJ 07645, in association with Otsego Memorial Hospital. This is Volume 1, Issue 1. Š 2009 by Otsego Memorial Hospital. All rights reserved.

Material contained herein is intended for informational purposes only. If you have medical concerns, seek the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Sincerely,

THOMAS R. LEMON, CEO Otsego Memorial Hospital

For additional information about Otsego Memorial Hospital, visit our website at www.goodhealthstartshere.com.

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For the

RECORD

By the numbers NOTABLE HEALTH-RELATED FACTS AND FIGURES

Top 6 causes of death

The quest for health—online

in the United States, 2005:

information by computer on an average day, and 58% of them say online guidance has affected their treatment decisions. Here’s what they’re looking to learn about: • 64% a specific disease or medical problem • 51% a medical treatment or procedure • 49% diet, nutrition or vitamins • 44% exercise or fitness • 22% depression, anxiety, stress or mental health issues • 9% smoking cessation • 8% drug or alcohol problems

1. Heart disease 2. Cancer 3. Stroke 4. Chronic lower respiratory diseases 5. Accidents or unintentional injuries 6. Diabetes Source: The National Center for Health Statistics

16% of Americans under the age of 65 did not have health insurance in 2006.

Source: The National Center for Health Statistics

The top 10 most prescribed medications, 2007: 1. Lipitor (cholesterol-lowering agent) 2. Singulair (used for the long-term treatment of asthma) 3. Lexapro (antidepressant drug) 4. Nexium (used to treat acid reflux disease) 5. Synthroid (thyroid medication) 6. Plavix (prevents blood clots after a recent heart attack or stroke) 7. Toprol XL (used to treat hypertension) 8. Prevacid (used to treat acid reflux disease) 9. Vytorin (cholesterollowering agent) In 2007, 10. Advair Diskus (used for the long-term of U.S. adults smoked, treatment down from 22.5% in 2002 of asthma)

Source: PEW Internet and American Life Project

20%

10.3 million CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: STEPHEN VANHORN; ALEXEY AVDEEV; JENNIFER FABELA; D. HURST/ALAMY

8 million adults search for health

cosmetic procedures were done in the U.S. in 2008.

Source: American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Source: The National Center for Health Statistics

Source: RxList

What’s normal

Gender and lifespan

Find out where you fit in by comparing your numbers to these ranges: BODY MASS INDEX: • 18.5 to 24.9 is normal body mass index (BMI) for adults. (142 million adults are considered overweight or obese. Calculate your BMI at www.nhlbisupport.bmi.)

TOTAL CHOLESTEROL: • Under 200 mg/dl is a desirable level for adults. (48.4% of adults have cholesterol levels that are too high.)

BLOOD PRESSURE: • Normal for adults is 120 mmHg or less over 80 mmHg or less. (1 in 3 adults has high blood pressure.)

Which sex is really tough? Here’s the life expectancy at birth for each for kids born in 2005.

Sources: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; American Heart Association; National Heart, Blood and Lung Institute

32 million Source: American Heart Association

80.4

75.2

FEMALES

MALES

YEARS

YEARS

Source: The National Center for Health Statistics

Americans take three or more medications daily.

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Clinical

Update

Goodbye, shoulder pain FOR THIS FLEXIBLE, INJURY-PRONE JOINT, ARTHROSCOPY MAY BE THE ANSWER

ments. Whatever the cause or the level of pain, err on the side of caution by having the shoulder examined. Early intervention may prevent further injury.

Your orthopedist may suggest rest, physical therapy, medication and strengthening exercises to ease your shoulder pain. But if such treatments don’t work, you may be a good candidate for arthroscopy—today’s minimally invasive shoulder surgery.

Arthroscopy has become the norm for treating many shoulder problems in the past 10 to 15 years as medical technology has advanced. Its goals are to alleviate pain, repair damaged structures, prevent further damage and restore function.

“The arthroscopic technology and equipment at Otsego Memorial Hospital are state-of-the-art for all hospitals in northern Michigan,” says Gilbert Noirot, M.D., of OMH N’Orthopedics. “Patients are referred here by word of mouth from all over.” Dr. Noirot has performed procedures on patients from Mackinac Island, Roscommon, Alpena and Charlevoix.

Arthroscopy involves making small incisions and inserting the arthroscope—a small tube containing lenses and fiber optics, which allows the surgeon to see inside the joint, thus both confirming the diagnosis of shoulder problems and treating them without having to make large incisions. Shoulder arthroscopy is usually done in an outpatient setting, and most patients go home the same day.

At Otsego Memorial Hospital, about 250 to 300 arthroscopic shoulder surgeries are performed each year.

4 WAYS TO AVOID SPORTS INJURIES

1

Warm up before you play. Your pre-game warm-up should include strengthening and cardiovascular exercises and

IF YOU FEEL PAIN IN YOUR SHOULDER, don’t ignore it. Even a small pain that seems to come and go could be the sign of a more serious condition needing a healthcare professional’s advice.

Shoulder pain can afflict anyone from adolescents to the elderly. It can be caused by sports injuries, arthritis, overuse injuries, instability, tears, fractures or “impingement syndrome”—an inflammation of the muscles and tendons that secure the arm to the shoulder, often produced by repeated overhead arm move6

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SPRING 2009

gentle stretching.

2 3

Cool down afterwards. Try not to shift abruptly from rapid exertion to full rest; instead, let your activity taper off.

Get regular exercise. Experts suggest at least a half hour of exercise most days—but check with your doctor before starting an exercise program.

4

Give yourself a break. Take a day off between games or workouts to allow muscles to heal and to prevent strains and injuries from overuse.

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Shoulder anatomy 101 STABILITY DEPENDS ON SOFT TISSUES The shoulder is made up of three bones: the clavicle (collarbone), the scapula (shoulder blade) and the humerus (upper arm bone). The shoulder joint is of the ball-and-socket type, though its “socket”

clavicle

is less complete than that of the hip joint. The

scapula

ball is the top, rounded portion of the upper arm bone; the socket-like glenoid is a dish-shaped part of the outer edge of the scapula into which the ball fits.

humerus

The glenoid is like the concave surface of a golf tee, on which a golf ball sits and which it can slip off with relative ease. Similarly, because the bones provide little stability to the shoulder joint, it depends on surrounding soft tissues— mainly the ligaments, tendons and muscles known as the rotator cuff—to hold the ball in place. That inherent instability is both good and bad: It makes the shoulder the body’s most movable joint, able to pivot in almost any direction,

SHUTTERSTOCK/ALAMY

but it also makes it prone to injury.

“These range from people with athletic injuries to those suffering from arthritis,” says Dr. Noirot. “I help individuals who are looking for pain relief.” While some people think only of knee and hip replacements when they consider orthopedic surgery, he does a much broader variety of procedures. “I perform shoulder, elbow, wrist, knee and ankle scopes for overuse injuries, traumatic injuries and sports injuries,” he says.

Arthroscopic surgery is done with the patient asleep, and a nerve block is often given before the procedure to provide postoperative pain relief. Saline solution is pumped into the joint, expanding it and controlling bleeding, helping the surgeon see better. With this technology, still images can be captured from the video footage of the surgery, allowing the patient to see what took place during the operation.

Less invasive than conventional open surgery, arthroscopy is appealing for people who wish to avoid potential scarring and overnight hospital stays. It also avoids the potential complications of open procedures.

Demand for shoulder arthroscopy is on the rise, doctors say, for three reasons: • Fast-improving technology and surgical expertise provides for excellent outcomes and patient satisfaction.

• An aging population with increased life expectancy wants to stay active.

• There is enhanced public awareness of this lessinvasive option.

Dr. Noirot also stresses the importance of physical therapy, both for those who don’t need surgery and for patients following their procedures. “To be successful, physical therapy of the joint is a must,” he says. “We have a great facility here with the OMH Rehabilitation Services Department to help patients get back to a normal routine.” ■ For more information about shoulder arthroscopy at Otsego Memorial Hospital, contact OMH N’Orthopedics at 989-732-1753.

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Technology

Today

Worry-free imaging RADIOLOGY PLAYS A VITAL ROLE IN DIAGNOSING ILLNESSES

ONE DAY IN 1895, GERMAN PHYSICIST WILhelm Roentgen was doing experiments with electron beams in a gas discharge tube. While projecting the beams onto a fluorescent screen, he saw a silhouette of the bones of his hand. By accident, he had discovered X-rays—and the science of diagnostic radiology.

Today, this science and its imaging tools help doctors diagnose many conditions. But much depends on having top-flight equipment. That’s what you’ll find at Otsego Memorial Hospital. Here are two key examples:

• MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) units are used in diagnosing cancer, diabetes, heart and vascular disorders and other conditions. The scanner uses magnetism and radio waves to produce remarkably clear pictures, which help doctors tell healthy tissue from diseased tissue.

Being scheduled for an MRI exam can be unsettling, but the procedure itself is as quick and comfortable as possible with the open-bore, short-bore fixed magnetic resonance scanner at Otsego Memorial. (A wider, shorter “bore”—opening—improves patient comfort.)

“There is no other unit like this in northern Michigan,” says Andrew Lanway, director of radiology.

“It allows exams to be completed quickly, with less repositioning of the individual.”

“Think of the shape of this unit as a donut rather than a tube,” says MRI technologist Trista Sitz.

The high-field MRI magnet (the higher the field of strength, the better the images) previously used was too small for some patients. They would have to be sent elsewhere or be scanned in open MRI systems with lowfield magnets, limiting the images’ diagnostic useful8

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LEFT, Trista Sitz performs an MRI with Otsego Memorial Hospital’s open-bore MRI unit on patient Megan Heller. RIGHT, Alisa Calamari allows Kristen Roberts to view her baby using Otsego Memorial Hospital’s large-scale Siemens S2000 ultrasound.

ness. The new unit, the Siemens MAGNETOM Espree, can be used for patients weighing up to 550 pounds.

Results of the MRI scans can be viewed electronically on the hospital’s network or placed on CDs.

• 3-D ULTRASOUND Ultrasound is based on the principle of echolocation, with which whales and dolphins navigate. A technician moves a tool called a transducer probe over the body to pick up high-frequency sound waves, sending data to a computer that creates an image viewed on a monitor.

Otsego Memorial was the first hospital in northern Michigan—and one of the state’s first—to acquire the most advanced three-dimensional ultrasound equipment. “The Siemens S2000 is completely up-to-date, with an image quality significantly better than our competition’s,” says Lanway.

At Otsego Memorial, two large-scale ultrasound machines will enable 3-D imaging over many applications, while using varying acoustic energies to assess tissue stiffness. Thus they may be used to evaluate liver tumors or abnormalities in fibrous tissue. A handheld ultrasound, used in the hospital’s Birthing Center, allows fetal positioning to be checked at the bedside. ■ To learn more about imaging services at Otsego Memorial Hospital, please call 989-731-2100.

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Better

4

tips for your MAMMOGRAM HOW TO BE SURE YOU GET THE BEST READ

MAMMOGRAMS ARE THE BEST tool we have for early breast cancer detection, doctors say. But even when they’re done right, these studies aren’t perfect.

They may miss some tumors while highlighting other tissue irregularities that prove harmless, and reading the results can be a subtle skill.

How can you make sure you’re getting the best possible image and read?

Experts offer four suggestions:

1

Check the mammography center’s certificate. The federal

Mammogram Quality Standards Act (MQSA) of 1992 sets minimum criteria for both equipment and professionals’ training, and annual inspections are the basis for the certification that permits a center to operate legally.

When you’re deciding where to have your mammogram, ask to see a facility’s FDA certificate and make sure it’s current, or log on to the FDA’s website, www.fda.gov/cdrh/mammography.

JUPITERIMAGES/POLKA DOT/ALAMY

2

Make sure the facility has a record of your previous mammograms. If old files aren’t available,

doctors won’t know what’s changed or new—and half the interpretation is missed. It’s small changes over time that raise suspicions. Without earlier films for comparison, a doctor may spot something that actually has been there for five or 10 years. That could lead to an unnecessary biopsy.

If you need to change facilities for insurance or other reasons, collect your old mammogram files—be they film or digital files—and personally take them to the new imaging center.

Speak up about any symptoms. There are two branches of mammography: screening and diagnostic. Screening is your yearly test. You zip in and out.

3

Diagnostic mammography is a completely different piece of the puzzle.

If you are having specific symptoms—you feel a lump, for example, or have nipple discharge—be sure to tell your doctor. He or she needs to know what you’re experiencing in order to determine if extra tests are needed. It might not even be a mammogram that’s required—your doctor may want you to have an ultrasound exam instead.

Don’t choose a “live read.” Some imaging centers boast that they will read your film “live”—that is, while you wait. Patients often think this means they’re getting better service, but that’s often not the case.

For one thing, centers that have the time to do live reads are not very busy, experts often note—and there may be a reason for that. Also, live reads force staff to multitask and rush. A better system is when radiologists are able to take a day’s worth of films and read them in a private room. This way, they’re not interrupted, they can take their time and, if necessary, they can ask a colleague for an opinion. ■

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CARE

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Profiles

in Caring

New faces, big passion FRESHLY ARRIVED IN THE AREA, THESE PHYSICIANS BRING A SPECIAL ZEAL FOR THE COMMUNITY

THOMAS KOZLEK, M.D.

KASEY C. NELSON, D.O.

“I am excited to be practicing in a rural community,” says Thomas Kozlek, M.D. “I’ve found the individuals here friendly, and there is a specific need for an ear, nose and throat specialist.”

Dr. Kozlek completed medical school at Jefferson Medical College of Thomas Jefferson University and his residency at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, both in Philadelphia.

“I find Otsego Memorial to be an efficient hospital filled with a friendly and cooperative staff,” says Dr. Kozlek. “I am looking forward to the full spectrum of outdoor activities northern Michigan has to offer—as well as working with great people in a great community.”

Kasey C. Nelson, D.O., joined Otsego Memorial Hospital’s Emergency Department. “I want to help those in greatest need,” says Dr. Nelson. “It is rewarding to truly save a life—as well as to help patients who have nowhere else to turn.”

Dr. Nelson completed medical school at Nova Southeastern University College of Medicine in Fort Lauderdale–Davie, Fla., and his residency at Sparrow Hospital, Michigan State University in Lansing. He worked at Henry Ford Hospital and for Emergency Physicians Medical Group of Michigan in Ann Arbor before coming to Otsego Memorial.

Dr. Nelson and his family relocated to Gaylord seeking a warm and inviting practice environment. He says he wanted to live in a great community where he could spend time with his family—still, the area’s combination of charms surprised him.

“We certainly didn’t plan on such an ideal opportunity that would encompass it all,” he says.

KEVIN SMITH, D.O.

“I enjoy taking care of all aspects of medicine and the full spectrum of age groups,” says Kevin Smith, D.O., who specializes in family medicine.

Dr. Smith completed medical school at Michigan State University’s College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed his internship and residency at Metro Health Hospital, where he was elected chief family practice resident for 2007–2008.

He also volunteered his knowledge in sports medicine for the Grand Rapids Marathon in 2005, the Special Olympics at Calvin College in 2006 and the Fifth Third River Bank Run in 2006.

The doctor is excited to join the Gaylord community. “My family and I love northern Michigan, with all the outdoor recreational opportunities it has to offer,” he says. “We truly enjoy all four seasons, and what better place to do that than in Gaylord?”

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ROBERT ALLUM, D.O.

“I specialize in family medicine,” says Robert Allum, D.O. “And I enjoy working with the friendly staff at the MedCare Walk-In Clinic.”

Dr. Allum completed medical school at Michigan State University’s College of Osteopathic Medicine. He did his internship at University Community Hospital–Carrollwood in Tampa, Fla., and his residency at Mercy General Health Partners in Muskegon.

“I will be commuting daily from Boyne Falls, and I’m excited to be a part of the Gaylord community,” says Dr. Allum. ■

If you would like assistance in locating a physician, please call 989-731-2300.

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by Debbie Bolla

Glorious FOOD

Golden moment

SOURCE: WWW.RECIPESOURCE.COM; FROM THE AMERICAN DIABETES ASSOCIATION HOLIDAY COOKBO OK BY BETTY WEDMAN; PHOTOS: TOP: WILLAIM REAVELL; BOTTOM: KROEGER/GROSS; MUFFIN: MARK THOMAS

THE SEASON FOR APRICOTS IS SHORT, BUT SWEET IF SPRING IS HERE, CAN APRICOTS BE FAR behind? From early May to late June, this golden fruit makes its glorious but fleeting appearance at local produce stands. Apricots originally hailed from China’s mountainous northern region, where they’ve been cultivated for more than 4,000 years. It was Spanish explorers, however, who brought apricots to the New World in the late 1700s and planted them in the gardens of missions throughout California.

Since then, U.S. apricot cultivation has remained almost exclusive to the Golden State, which produces about 95 percent of the domestic seasonal crop. Apricots thrive on the Mediterranean climate California offers.

From Castlebrite to Patterson to Tilton, there are a dozen varieties to chose from. Rumor has it, though, that Blenheims are hailed as the most flavorful and luscious variety. They’re also the most difficult to find—the ultradelicate fruit is very hard to ship, and has an evanescent three-week season.

Adding apricots to any dish brings more than just taste to the table—the DID YOU KNOW? fruits are a good source of Apricot pit kernels are beta-carotene, potassium used in confections and to and vitamins A and C. flavor liqueurs. Like bitter They’re perfect for sweetalmonds, apricot pits are ening salads, chutneys poisonous until roasted. and chicken dishes and make a sweet sauce when poached. You can also add them to kabobs with a

brush of honey and fire up the barbecue.

Chose your ’cots with care: They should be deep gold with a distinct blush, soft to the touch and exude a sweet aroma. If they’re plump but on the firm side, store at room temperature in a paper bag for a day or so. The best advice, however, is simple: Savor your fresh apricots—before you know it, they’ll be gone. ■

Apricot muffins Makes 8 Servings 1

⁄2 cup apricots, finely snipped ⁄3 cup apple juice,

1

unsweetened 1 cup whole wheat flour 2 teaspoons baking powder 1

⁄4 teaspoon baking soda ⁄4 teaspoon ground ginger 1 ⁄3 cup walnuts, chopped 1

3 tablespoons vegetable oil 1 tablespoon sugar 1 egg

• Preheat oven to 350° F. • Soak the apricots in the apple juice for about 10 minutes. Set aside.

• In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, ginger and walnuts. Beat the oil, sugar and egg in a separate bowl. To the flour mixture, add the apricots and juice, then the egg mixture.

Mix until blended.

• Spoon the batter into greased muffin tins about 3⁄4 full.

• Bake for 10 to 15 minutes or until golden brown.

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In bloom

by Amanda Prost

in praise of

peonies GIVE YOUR GARDEN SOME SPRINGTIME POP WITH THIS POPULAR PERENNIAL

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PEONIES HAVE THE LONGEVITY GENE. THEY live, on average, 30 to 40 years, and some have enjoyed more than a century of happy returns. But that’s not the plant’s only virtue. The carefree peony blooms with a passion for six to eight weeks from May to June, requires minimal fuss and winters without complaint.

As if that weren’t enough to recommend it, the showy plant’s long-lasting foliage and pleasing shape ensure a supporting role in the garden long after its ruffle-and-lace blooms are nothing more than pretty memories. Perhaps this win-win combination is why peonies have been cultivated for more than 2,000 years and are still growing in popularity.

The peony first rose to prominence in China, where it was called sho-yo, meaning “the beautiful.” A symbol of prosperity, the flower was also prized for its medicinal abilities. In the Western world, the Greeks found that it was good for what ailed them as well, naming the plant after Paeon, the physician to the gods.

Colonial Americans were taken more by the flower’s aesthetics than its medical benefits. In those days, peonies graced the dooryard gardens of early settlers and traveled with them as they moved westward.

Peonies come in two basic types. Herbaceous peonies lose their stems and leaves each autumn. Tree peonies are woody shrubs that shed only their leaves. The plants vary greatly in size, ranging from tiny 6-inch–tall dwarfs to towering 5-foot giants.

Colors are similarly diverse. The early-blooming Red Charm has a deep-colored double row of petals, while the Gold Standard showcases yellow-tinged white petals surrounding a massive bright-yellow center. The smaller Petit Elegance sprouts blossoms that fade from bright magenta to soft white. And for bold contrast, blackbloomed peonies will certainly stand out from the crowd. ■

A PEONY PRIMER You don’t have to be a horticultural Einstein to grow peonies. Once established, they are easy to take care of and will keep blooming from year to year.

• For a showy springtime display, plant peonies in the fall or in the spring after the last frost. Pick a spot that receives a half to full day of sun, with well-drained soil to prevent rot.

• Set the tuber in a hole large enough to accommodate the entire root system, with the buds facing upward, leaving 3 feet between each plant. Cover with no more than 2 inches of soil—any deeper and the peony will have trouble blooming. In fall, adding a thin layer of mulch will provide protection from the cold, but isn’t mandatory. The blooms will show their colors in May. • Be sure to stake larger varieties of herbaceous peonies when the first shoots show in spring. Otherwise, they may flop over by mid-summer.

• Water new plants each week during the first planting season. After they’re established, water just enough to dampen the soil (it shouldn’t be wet). Allow the soil to dry between watering.

• Remove flowers after they fade. This helps strengthen the root system.

• After a heavy frost in fall, cut herbaceous peonies down to 3 inches. Tree peonies should not be cut back in the fall. They do better when left undisturbed and don’t need to be divided like other perennials.

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Friends of

Otsego

Giving that makes a difference ONE MAN’S MASTERY OF HIS DIABETES BEGAN WITH A SOLID FOUNDATION

LES TAYLOR PUTS THE MATTER simply: “If it weren’t for Otsego Memorial Hospital and its Diabetes Self-Management program, I wouldn’t be here today.”

He’s grateful to the Otsego Memorial Hospital Foundation, which supports the program along with other community health initiatives. In 2008 the foundation granted $3,000 to the hospital to support individuals who are uninsured or underinsured and who otherwise could not afford this lifesaving class.

Les Taylor has embraced a healthier lifestyle—with the help of his wife, Mary, The four-part diabetes program and the diabetes program at Otsego Memorial Hospital. is designed to train people to take an active role in managing their diabetes and thereby reap BECAUSE YOU CARE . . . The OMH Foundation the benefits of blood glucose control, nutrition, exercise makes quarterly grants to Otsego Memorial Hospital to and other components that make up a healthy lifestyle support patient services and department needs. In for a person with the illness.

January 2009, the foundation granted OMH $69,000, Diabetes, a metabolic disorder, affects how the which helped us to: body processes food for energy. If diabetes is not properly SUPPORT: controlled, it means a much higher risk of heart disease • The “Reach Out and Read” literacy program and can lead to serious problems with the kidneys, eyes, • The “Move Smart, Eat Right” program for youth nerves and extremities. Thus, the disease makes lots of • The Breastfeeding Initiative demands—it takes work and knowledge to stay well.

PURCHASE FOR THE HOSPITAL: Taylor, who has had diabetes for about five years, • Electrotherapy units for rehab services went through the program last October with the support • New glide scope and video laryngoscope for surgery of his wife, Mary. “We felt comfortable with the staff and and anesthesia could tell they had my best interests in mind,” he says.

• Palliative care carts Since completing the program, Taylor has lost 30 • Phototherapy system for babies with jaundice pounds and adopted habits that show he knows how to • Visual aids for cardiac rehab patients take care of his body. ■ PURCHASE FOR MCREYNOLDS HALL: • New bed comforters for all residents PURCHASE FOR PHYSICIANS’ OFFICES: • Temporal thermometer For more information about the Otsego Memorial Hospital Foundation, please call 989-731-2342.

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• Hearing testing device PURCHASE FOR ONCOLOGY: • Patient monitors

Otsego Memorial Hospital Foundation Gift Registry 2009

All names listed have generously supported the Otsego Memorial Hospital Foundation in the first quarter of 2009 (1/1/2009-3/31/2009).

The OMH Foundation is grateful for their support and dedication to quality local healthcare.

Staff and Employee Circle of Friends Anonymous Ryan Allen Jackie Allsopp Shirlee Andrews Sarah Authier Mrs. Kathy Avenall Mr. and Mrs. R. Dale Mr. and Mrs. Richard Bartlett Julie Belt Susan Bennett Mr. and Mrs. LloywBlust Geri Boadway Patty Bonner Mr. and Mrs. Borowiak Mr. Dennis Borowiak and Mrs. Maureen Borowiak Faith Brinkman Ms. Cynthia M. Brower Romeo and Carolyn Buclay Mr. and Mrs. Michael Burke (Nancy) Nichole Butcher Bonnie J. Byram Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Calamari Donna Chandler Donna Clark Sheryl Cody Don and Mary Beth Cook Ruth A. Coons Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Corby (Cindy) Mr. and Mrs. Brett Crandell Jessica Crane Mr. and Mrs. Jon Deming Marcia Dennis Florence Dowker Mr. and Mrs. Douglas Dreffs Mrs. Marguerite Duncan Marlene Dzwik Linda D. Eastwood Mr. and Mrs. Tim Eckert Mr. and Mrs. Chuck Edwards Gregory Ehle Kerry and Patricia Elder Mrs. Julie Ellison Dave and Diane Fisher Mr. and Mrs. Kevin R. Fogle Catherine Foust Cynthia Francis Sara and Jimmy Freeman Missy and Mike Gapinski Ms. Vicki Garlitz Mr. and Mrs. Dan Glomski Ms. Lori Gonzalez Elizabeth Goodrich Cindy Gordon Mr. and Mrs. Danny Griffith (Cindy) Mrs. Suzanne Griswold Paul Hagan Vivian L. Hall Mrs. Kay Hanna-DeLuca Suzanne Hardy Mr. and Mrs. Michael J. Harrelson Mr. Timothy Hella Marlene Hinchliffe Ms. Barbara A. Hoekstra Steven Holman Ms. Christine A. Hoogerhyde Mr. Christopher Hope, O.T.R. Ms. Rhonda Howard Ms. Sharon Jann Kelly Joles Greg and Dawn Jones Mrs. Kathleen Jones Bob and Skip Kasprzak Stephanie Fahler Mr. and Mrs. William Kelly, II Jeanie C. Kelsey Kelly Kerr Mary J. King and Gerald B. King Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Kline David Kramp John and Linda Kremkow Mr. and Mrs. Tom Krzemien Doug and Nancy Kussrow Tiffanie LaHaie David and Catherine Lail Jerry and Della Lambert Jill LaMotte

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Andrew Lanway Courtney Lappan Tom and Jean Lemon Mrs. Twilla L. Coon Mrs. Lisa Mackowiak Mrs. Barbara Makowski Cynthia Marcenaro Candace Marcotte Ms. Monica McClure Amy McKeown Mrs. Melissa Meadows Mr. and Mrs. Michael Meines Mr. and Mrs. David Meredith Linda T. Mesler Nancy Meyer Mr. and Mrs. Mark Mohr Cheryl Moreno Linda and Pete Morris Mr. Steven A. Moulding Mr. and Mrs. Douglas F. Mowery Ms. Danielle Mundt Deborah Nash Mrs. Pamela R. Nemeth Matt and Melissa Noa Sarah Nolan Mr. and Mrs. Brian Olsen (Heather) Sandra and Robert Oltersdorf Nicole Owens Mr. and Mrs. Ralph D. Pardo Mr. Kenneth and Mrs. Kathleen Pawlanta, FNP Mrs. Anita Percy Michael and Christie Perdue John and Mollie Peterson Mr. and Mrs. Michael Piper (Nancy) Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Prebenda Jessica Price Mrs. Victoria Prusakiewicz Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Pudvan Tamyra Purgiel Kenneth and Nancy Ragan Marilyn Record Joanne Reichert Margaaret Rempe Bobbie Jo Repar Ron and Kathy Respecki Mr. and Mrs. Kirt Roach Allison Robbins Mr. and Mrs. Tyler Roberts Kelly Roberts-Zielinski Mr. and Mrs. Rosenburg Jay Ruddy Kimberly Taylor Ruley Juanita Sarzynski Ms. Catherine Schober Mr. and Mrs. Mac A. Scribner Ms. Mary B. Seger, Ph.D., GNP Rick Shaw Ms. Mary R. Shelson Julie and Lucas Shepherd Laura Sincock Mike and Trista Sitz Mr. and Mrs. Gordon Smith Mrs. Kalynn Smith Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Spyhalski (Eileen) Ms. Mary Steele Mr. and Mrs. Bernard Strauch (Barbara) Darlene Stroyan Frank and Darlene Stroyan Mr. Donald Suddon Diane Suttles Cynthia A. Tallent Ms. Sharon Taylor Brian Techel and Tami Techel Tamula Techel Corazon Thaxton Nicholas Thaxton Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Thomas (DiAnne) Therese Toutant Mr. David B. Trimbath Kaarina M. Veihl Stacy Vizina Ms. Jennifer Vogel Julia Vultaggio Kevin Wahr Mr. and Mrs. LeRoy Watson Amy Wells

Lorien Werner Kathy Wilcox Mrs. Beth Wilson Mr. and Mrs. Dan Yale (Karen) Tracey Zack Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Zaleski Hippocrates Society This society recognizes all gifts from physicians and those made in their honor.

Dr. and Mrs. Luis Collazo John and Wendy Frye Dr. and Mrs. Robert Halter Dr. Peter and Amy Handley Dr. and Mrs. Soo Y. Hwang Changxin Li Kasey and Wendi Nelson Dr. and Mrs. Steven E. Parker Dr. Ronald and Mrs. Deborah Weisberger Dr. and Mrs. Steven J. Wisniewski

In Honor of Dr. David W. Miner Mary Bryan Hewitt Dorothy Sumerau In Honor of Dr. Keith Miyamoto Chuck and Patty Berlin Dr. John and Mrs. Delores Burau In Honor of Dr. John Moffat Jim Spillan In Honor of Dr. David Olson Susan and Richard Straith In Honor of Dr. Steven Parker Mr. and Mrs. Graydon Blank Eugene and Barbara Fleming Sandra and Lawrence Nemecek In Honor of Dr. Frederick Rau Marvin and Nancy Kelso

In Honor of All Physicians Anonymous

In Honor of Dr. Michael Samalik Anonymous Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Cilwa Josephine Lilak Betty and Dale Mattmiller Esther J. Nelson Helen Theisen

In Honor of All Who Have Taken Care of Me Mr. Ben Scott

In Honor of Dr. Ronald Weisberger Carolyn Study

In Honor of Dr. Becky Askley Dr. John and Mrs. Delores Burau Ms. Maxine Marciniak Elizabeth A. Pasel Margaret Wilson

In Honor of Steven Wisniewski, M.D. Chuck and Patty Berlin Doris J. Catt Jim and Libby Gray Steve and Delphine Jedrzejek Ray and Jo Ann Lingle Jimmy and Lisa Moore Gerald and Patricia Moran Sandra and Lawrence Nemecek Gordon and Carole Runngren Dale J. and Marlene A. Smith Mr. and Mrs. Leonard Wojtkowiak

Honorariums In Honor Of All GNP Nurses Anonymous

In Honor of Todd M. Erickson, M.D. Ray and Jo Ann Lingle In Honor of Dr. Wendy Frye Anonymous Mary MacGregor Sanders In Honor of Dr. Robert Halter Doris M. Pesonen Dick and Doris Zink-Wood In Honor of Judy Jerome, G.N.P Jim and Libby Gray In Honor of Dr. Changxin Li Jacqueline Barrenscheer and Mary V. Cobb Emil and Muriel Frank Frank and Myrna Jasinski Mr. and Mrs. D. Kalie Donald W. Sandberg In Honor of Dr. Gary Lingaur Gary and Clara Andree Mason and Jan Buckingham Tom and Jan Seidel In Honor of Dr. Kristen Maschke Terry Pilon Gordon and Carole Runngren Leo and Sylvia R. Schuster In Honor of Dr. Michael McNamara Jack S. Bowers Gordon Nickert Doris M. Pesonen Gordon and Carole Runngren Leo and Sylvia R. Schuster In Honor of Robert P. Mee, D.O. Jean Appleton Mary MacGregor Sanders Harry and Doris Schulz Dick and Doris Zink-Wood In Honor of Dr. Christopher Milan Scott and Ann Doederlein Doug and Carol Schubert

Cornerstone Society This Giving Society recognizes all donors who give or pledge an annual gift of $1,000 or more to the OMH Foundation.

Community Financial Jim and Jan Cotant Gaylord Eye Care Center -Dr. Ronald Mead -Dr. Peter Oppermann -Dr. Robert Slezak Scott and Janice Lampert Mayfair Plastics Helen Morrow Mr. and Mrs. William J. Muzyl Otsego County Community Foundation Otsego Memorial Hospital Auxiliary Passageways Travel Matt and Jennifer Rooyakker Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge Ms. Carol Nelson-Snyder Spicy Bob’s Italian Express Carolyn and Jon Study Three Rivers Corporation Marcus and Sharon Wegmeyer Winthrop Resources Corporation Wright & Filippis

Remer Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. Robert T. Westerman II, PLC Leo and Sylvia R. Schuster Shred-it Sheila and Charles Simpson Sunrise Construction Company, Inc. Dave and Sue Taylor Circle of Friends This Giving Society recognizes all donors who give or pledge an annual gift of $50-$499 to the OMH Foundation.

Black Forest & Wilderness Valley Golf Resort Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Blotny Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan Dr. John and Mrs. Delores Burau Joyce Engel Hansa GCR, LLC Mr. and Mrs. Jack G. Hofstra Mr. Ernest R. Huffman Mr. E. W. Jones Ray and Judy Kucharek Otsego Club Mr. and Mrs. Charles W. Richards Dick and Carol Schmidt Pete and Pat Slominski Helen Theisen 2004 Capital Campaign All gifts made to support pledges to the 2004 Capital Campaign in 2009.

Chesley Corporation Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth R. Glasser Dr. Angus G. Goetz, III Keskine, Cook, Miller & Reppuhn, LLP Dave and Sue Taylor MEMORIALS 2009 Otsego Memorial Hospital Foundation proudly lists the gifts made in memory of others. May they each be honored through the Hospital’s healing mission.

Memorials In Memory of Lillian Girard Mr. Roger L. Girard In Memory of Mary Lou S. Higdon Nell and Phil Curtiss In Memory of Dale Quay Richard and Dorothy Nowak Don Patch and Family Mr. and Mrs. Joel Sietsema Bob, Dolores and Rob VanHoorne In Memory of Jack Stutesman Mr. and Mrs. James Backenstose Sister Carmen and Sister Janice Gaylord High School Class of 1952 Mr. and Mrs. Carl F. Mankowski Ms. Patricia S. Mankowski Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Mankowski Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Mankowski James Mero

Good Samaritan Society This Giving Society recognizes all donors who give or pledge an annual gift of $500-$999 to the OMH Foundation.

FinCor Solutions Gordon Food Service Independent Bank mBank Mr. Holland V. McEachern Munson Healthcare Northwestern Bank Ken and Juanita Nussbaum

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Award Winning Services Professional Medical Building 829 N. Center, Gaylord • Referrals (989) 731-2300

No matter how small or how large your need, Otsego Memorial Hospital and OMH Medical Group will help you find a solution.

OMH Medical Group is an integrated multi-specialty group of providers that provide inpatient services at Otsego Memorial Hospital, and outpatient services performed in multiple locations affiliated with OMH. The Professional Medical Building is home to Family Medicine, General Surgery, Internal Medicine, Neurology, Otolaryngology, and Pediatrics, and is connected to the main Hospital.

MedCare Walk-In Clinic 1996 Walden Drive, Gaylord • (989) 731-4111

The MedCare Walk-In Clinic is open seven days a week, with no appointments necessary to provide treatment of minor illnesses and injuries, with an on-site x-ray for convenience.

The OMH Montmorency Medical Clinic offers Family Practice, Radiology, and Laboratory Phlebotomy services by appointment. This allows medical care to be offered locally in Lewiston while still working in conjunction with OMH to provide many other services available at the Hospital.

OMH Montmorency Medical Clinic 3040 Bourn Street, Lewiston • (989) 786-4877

OMH N’Orthopedics offers orthopedic care via a staff of highly trained physicians and certified physician assistants. OMH N’Orthopedics provides outpatient visits at offices located in both Gaylord and Grayling.

OMH Medical Group continues to expand in order to serve the patients of many area communities.

www.goodhealthstartshere.com OMH N’Orthopedics 2147 Professional Drive, Gaylord • (989) 732-1753

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