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healthviews<br />
<strong>November</strong>/<strong>December</strong> 2012<br />
a health publication from <strong>Jersey</strong> <strong>Shore</strong> University <strong>Medical</strong> Center<br />
Young Athlete<br />
Thrives After<br />
Rare Tumor<br />
Robotic Surgery Helps<br />
Man Fight Two Cancers<br />
High-Risk Pregnancy<br />
Has Happy Ending<br />
Cool Tips to Stay Fit<br />
This Winter<br />
visit us online at <strong>Jersey</strong><strong>Shore</strong>University<strong>Medical</strong>Center.com
A Message to <strong>the</strong> Community<br />
The first moments of new parenthood are some of <strong>the</strong> most<br />
memorable. At Meridian Health, we strive to provide new<br />
families with a comfortable experience and <strong>the</strong> best care.<br />
Complications during pregnancy can arise without warning,<br />
which makes <strong>the</strong> choice of where to give birth an important<br />
one. In this issue, you’ll read about some remarkable births at our<br />
hospitals. Christine Quigley found herself facing a life-threatening<br />
emergency. Tascha Krapf embarked on a pregnancy while<br />
managing type 1 diabetes. Kristine Zellman’s complicated medical<br />
history made her third pregnancy high risk. All of <strong>the</strong>m received<br />
expert care while delivering beautiful, healthy babies.<br />
This fall also brings a focus on <strong>the</strong> seniors in our communities.<br />
Meridian Health and Geisinger Health Plan have partnered<br />
to bring Geisinger Gold — a provider-sponsored Medicare<br />
Advantage product that is ranked as number six in <strong>the</strong> country<br />
— to seniors in Monmouth and Ocean counties. Seniors will<br />
now have access to a high-quality, cost-effective option for<br />
Medicare coverage that’s not currently available in this region,<br />
including better management of chronic conditions, better<br />
health care outcomes, and better access to covered services.<br />
The product was introduced in <strong>the</strong> fall, with plan benefits<br />
becoming effective January 2013.<br />
You can learn much more at<br />
MeridianGeisingerGold.com.<br />
No matter what your age or<br />
stage, Meridian Health is here<br />
for you.<br />
<strong>November</strong>/<strong>December</strong> 2012<br />
4<br />
6<br />
8<br />
9<br />
10<br />
12<br />
13<br />
Health Briefs<br />
Riverview Doctors Expect <strong>the</strong><br />
Unexpected to Save Mom<br />
and Baby<br />
Critical care during a<br />
life-threatening situation<br />
Young Athlete Thrives After<br />
Rare Tumor<br />
Robotic Surgery Helps Man<br />
Fight Two Cancers<br />
The newest technology means a<br />
better experience for patients<br />
A Veterans Day<br />
Survival Story<br />
One Appointment Changes<br />
New Gretna Woman’s Life<br />
Managing a High-Risk<br />
Pregnancy Close to Home<br />
John K. Lloyd, FACHE<br />
President, Meridian Health<br />
14<br />
Pregnancy Care Is Tailored<br />
to Perfection<br />
Read us on <strong>the</strong> go! The Meridian HealthViews<br />
app is now available for free download from <strong>the</strong> App<br />
Store on iTunes. Once you’re in <strong>the</strong> store, simply search<br />
“HealthViews” to download <strong>the</strong> app.<br />
This free bimonthly magazine is prepared by <strong>the</strong> Marketing and Communications Team<br />
of Meridian Health. Please call 732-751-7530 with any questions or comments. Inquiries<br />
or ideas can be addressed to healthviews@meridianhealth.com.<br />
Peter Wegener, Esq., Chairman<br />
John K. Lloyd, FACHE, President<br />
Chrisie Scott, Vice President of Marketing and Corporate Communications<br />
Elliot Frank, M.D., <strong>Medical</strong> Advisor<br />
HealthViews production team: Michael McCauley, Gabriella Heizler, Jacki Kronstedt<br />
© 2012 Meridian Health<br />
The material provided in this magazine is intended to be used as general information<br />
only and should not replace <strong>the</strong> advice of your physician. Always consult your physician<br />
for individual care.<br />
Connect with Us!<br />
e<br />
Looking for a healthy, tasty holiday brunch<br />
treat? On October 24, find a recipe for<br />
cranberry pumpkin muffins at<br />
www.facebook.com/MeridianHealthNJ.<br />
Meridian Health tweets hot health-related<br />
headlines and local news pieces regularly at<br />
www.twitter.com/MeridianNJ.<br />
Meridian Momtourage physicians discuss<br />
women’s health in videos on YouTube:<br />
www.youtube.com/MeridianHealthNJ.<br />
Receive free e-newsletters on pediatric<br />
and cardiovascular health topics! Sign up at<br />
www.MeridianHealth.com/enewsletters.
6<br />
9<br />
19<br />
15<br />
16<br />
17<br />
Getting UFC’s ‘<strong>Jersey</strong> Devil’<br />
Back in <strong>the</strong> Ring<br />
Riverview Experts Save<br />
Young Athlete’s Season<br />
Weight-Loss Surgery<br />
Changes Keansburg<br />
Dad’s Life<br />
healthviews<br />
<strong>November</strong>/<strong>December</strong> 2012<br />
a health publication from <strong>Jersey</strong> <strong>Shore</strong> University <strong>Medical</strong> Center<br />
18<br />
19<br />
20<br />
Specialized Pediatric Care<br />
Saves Choking Toddler<br />
Olympic Medalist Offers<br />
Tips for Staying Fit<br />
This Winter<br />
Inside or out, <strong>the</strong>re are ways to<br />
keep up your routine<br />
Gift Ensures Ocean <strong>Medical</strong><br />
Center Is Growing Toge<strong>the</strong>r<br />
with Our Community<br />
21<br />
27<br />
28<br />
30<br />
Community Health Programs<br />
Take a Closer Look at Your<br />
Eye Health<br />
Solve <strong>the</strong> Puzzle of Your Pills<br />
My Health Views<br />
Young Athlete<br />
Thrives After<br />
Rare Tumor<br />
Cover Stories<br />
Paige Truax was overwhelmed when she was diagnosed with a rare type of<br />
cancer. Now, after a successful surgery and treatment, she’s moving forward<br />
with a new outlook on life. Read her story on page 8.<br />
High-Risk Pregnancy Robotic Surgery Helps Cool Tips to Stay Fit<br />
Has Happy Ending Man Fight Two Cancers This Winter<br />
visit us online at <strong>Jersey</strong><strong>Shore</strong>University<strong>Medical</strong>Center.com<br />
Robotic Surgery Helps<br />
Man Fight Two Cancers<br />
page 9<br />
High-Risk Pregnancy Has<br />
Happy Ending<br />
page 14<br />
Cool Tips to Stay Fit<br />
This Winter<br />
page 19
Promising News for<br />
People with Pre-Diabetes<br />
56%<br />
of those whose blood<br />
sugar levels returned to<br />
normal — even just once —<br />
Health Briefs<br />
What goes up must come down. That’s <strong>the</strong><br />
verdict of a new study on pre-diabetes.<br />
Nearly 80 million Americans have pre-diabetes. “The condition<br />
is characterized by high blood sugar and significantly raises <strong>the</strong> risk<br />
for type 2 diabetes,” explains Cristina Ciorlian, M.D., of <strong>Jersey</strong> <strong>Shore</strong><br />
University <strong>Medical</strong> Center. However, according to results published in<br />
had a lower risk of later<br />
developing type 2<br />
diabetes.<br />
The Lancet, this diagnosis isn’t inevitable. In fact, getting blood sugar<br />
levels back to normal — even just for a short time — could indicate a lower<br />
risk of developing diabetes down <strong>the</strong> road.<br />
Study researchers followed almost 2,000 adults with pre-diabetes for up<br />
to six years. Those whose blood sugar levels returned to normal — even<br />
just once — had a 56 percent lower risk of later developing type 2 diabetes.<br />
Join us at a Diabetes Awareness Day Event on <strong>November</strong> 3 or 9.<br />
Nutrition experts will be available for consultation, and a variety of<br />
screenings will be offered as well. Turn to page 21 for all <strong>the</strong> details.<br />
MeridianHealth.com • 1-800-DOCTORS®<br />
Stand Up for Your Health<br />
“The government suggests<br />
getting 150 minutes of exercise a week,”<br />
says Ladan Ilkhani, M.D., of Ocean <strong>Medical</strong><br />
Center. But Australian researchers have<br />
found that what you do during <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r<br />
6,500 minutes that you’re awake each week<br />
also matters.<br />
For a study in Archives of Internal<br />
Medicine, <strong>the</strong>y asked more than 200,000<br />
adults about <strong>the</strong>ir daily activity habits.<br />
They <strong>the</strong>n matched up survey results to<br />
national death records. Over a three-year<br />
period, people who sat for 11 hours or more<br />
per day were 40 percent more likely to die<br />
of any cause than those who logged less<br />
than four hours of chair time.<br />
How Much Physical Activity<br />
Do You Need Each Day?<br />
Don’t let <strong>the</strong> holidays sidetrack your weight-loss efforts. Join us on <strong>November</strong> 19 for an<br />
informative discussion on sticking to your goals. See page 24 to learn more.<br />
4
Low-Fat Milk<br />
Does <strong>the</strong><br />
Brain Good<br />
Milk does more than<br />
build strong bones. New<br />
research published in <strong>the</strong><br />
journal Stroke found it could<br />
protect <strong>the</strong> brain.<br />
For <strong>the</strong> study, almost<br />
75,000 Swedish adults ages<br />
45 to 83 completed dietary<br />
questionnaires. They reported<br />
on <strong>the</strong>ir consumption of dairy<br />
foods, such as milk, yogurt,<br />
and cheese. Researchers<br />
<strong>the</strong>n tracked <strong>the</strong> number<br />
of strokes <strong>the</strong>y had within<br />
approximately <strong>the</strong> next 10<br />
years. Participants who ate<br />
<strong>the</strong> most low-fat dairy foods<br />
had a 12 percent lower risk for<br />
any type of stroke.<br />
“This is consistent with<br />
o<strong>the</strong>r research, which has<br />
shown that low-fat dairy foods<br />
reduce blood pressure, a<br />
major stroke risk factor,”<br />
notes Tommasina<br />
Papa-Rugino, M.D.,<br />
of Sou<strong>the</strong>rn Ocean<br />
<strong>Medical</strong> Center.<br />
Tap into <strong>the</strong><br />
power of aging!<br />
Turn to page 24<br />
to learn about<br />
our lecture with<br />
a geriatrician<br />
on aging<br />
successfully.<br />
Berries Might Keep Your<br />
Mind Sharp<br />
Concerned about memory loss as you age?<br />
A new study in <strong>the</strong> Annals of Neurology has some “berry”<br />
good news for you!<br />
Researchers followed <strong>the</strong> diets of nearly 16,000<br />
women. When participants were all age 70 or older,<br />
researchers tested <strong>the</strong>ir thinking ability, memory, and<br />
o<strong>the</strong>r mental factors. The women who ate blueberries<br />
at least once a week and strawberries at least twice<br />
a week appeared to delay cognitive decline by<br />
up to two-and-a-half years. “Berries are high in<br />
nutrients called flavonoids that are believed to<br />
play a role in delaying age-related memory and<br />
o<strong>the</strong>r cognitive problems,” says Mat<strong>the</strong>w Davis,<br />
M.D., of Riverview <strong>Medical</strong> Center.<br />
If you or a loved one is experiencing increased<br />
forgetfulness or trouble concentrating, you<br />
may benefit from a memory screening. Plan<br />
to attend our Memory Awareness Day in<br />
<strong>November</strong>. Details are on page 21.<br />
Meridian HealthViews • <strong>November</strong>/<strong>December</strong> 2012<br />
5
Riverview <strong>Medical</strong> Center<br />
The Quigley family relaxes at home in Holmdel, healthy and<br />
happy after experiencing a life-threatening complication during<br />
<strong>the</strong> birth of Connor (far left) last year.<br />
Riverview Doctors Expect <strong>the</strong> Unexpected<br />
to Save Mom and Baby<br />
MeridianHealth.com • 1-800-DOCTORS<br />
Holmdel resident Christine<br />
Quigley’s 4-year-old son,<br />
Ryan, was born at Riverview<br />
<strong>Medical</strong> Center, so it was <strong>the</strong> natural<br />
choice for welcoming her second<br />
child in July 2011. The 37-year-old’s<br />
pregnancy had gone smoothly, so she<br />
saw no reason to worry about her<br />
scheduled induction. The night before,<br />
she and her husband, Jim, headed to<br />
Riverview, where <strong>the</strong>y met Christine’s<br />
OB/GYN, Adi Smolinsky, M.D.<br />
But after Christine’s water broke,<br />
<strong>the</strong> delivery accelerated at an<br />
alarming rate. “It was zero to 60 in<br />
minutes,” Christine says. “I was in<br />
extraordinary pain very quickly.”<br />
Her son Connor, born within<br />
30 minutes of her induction at <strong>the</strong><br />
hospital, had trouble breathing.<br />
As Christine panicked about his<br />
condition, she didn’t know she<br />
would soon need emergency surgery<br />
herself for a postpartum hemorrhage.<br />
Without <strong>the</strong> expertise and quick<br />
thinking of Dr. Smolinsky and <strong>the</strong><br />
Riverview team, she might not<br />
have survived.<br />
A Critical Decision<br />
Only 15 minutes after Connor was<br />
taken to <strong>the</strong> Special Care Nursery for<br />
evaluation of his breathing problems,<br />
Christine had what felt like ano<strong>the</strong>r<br />
contraction, <strong>the</strong>n began bleeding<br />
uncontrollably.<br />
“Her uterine muscle weakened<br />
and wouldn’t contract — <strong>the</strong> most<br />
common reason for bleeding after<br />
delivery,” Dr. Smolinsky says. “We<br />
tried every conservative method,<br />
from manual massage to a special<br />
balloonlike device that stops<br />
bleeding with mechanical pressure.”<br />
Despite <strong>the</strong>se efforts, <strong>the</strong> bleeding<br />
persisted, and <strong>the</strong> situation became<br />
life threatening. Dr. Smolinsky knew<br />
she had to ask Christine’s husband<br />
for permission to possibly perform a<br />
hysterectomy — <strong>the</strong> removal of her<br />
uterus. “She said to Jim, ‘We need to<br />
6
save your wife’s life,’” Christine says.<br />
“Jim replied, ‘Do whatever you need<br />
to do.’” Although it was his day off,<br />
fellow Riverview OB/GYN Robert<br />
Penney, M.D., came in to assist<br />
Dr. Smolinsky with <strong>the</strong> surgery.<br />
A Turn for <strong>the</strong> Better<br />
In <strong>the</strong> operating room, <strong>the</strong>re was<br />
finally some good news. Instead of<br />
a hysterectomy, Dr. Smolinsky was<br />
able to perform a bilateral uterine<br />
artery ligation with B-lynch uterine<br />
compression sutures — a reversible<br />
procedure. It clamped off <strong>the</strong><br />
blood flow and forced <strong>the</strong> uterus to<br />
contract while preserving Christine’s<br />
ability to have more children.<br />
When Christine awoke later<br />
that night, her first thought was of<br />
Connor. After hearing he was fine,<br />
she began to comprehend what she<br />
had been through. “I’d only heard of<br />
things like this in movies and on TV.<br />
It’s not something you’d think could<br />
happen to a healthy woman.”<br />
The Road Ahead<br />
Christine saw and held Connor <strong>the</strong><br />
next day, and <strong>the</strong>y went home from<br />
<strong>the</strong> hospital a week later. Slowly<br />
but surely, <strong>the</strong>y recovered, both<br />
physically and mentally. Christine<br />
returned to her human resources job<br />
in <strong>December</strong> 2011.<br />
Such complications can arise<br />
without warning, making <strong>the</strong> choice<br />
of birth location critically important,<br />
Dr. Smolinsky says. “In Christine’s<br />
delivery, nobody expected such a<br />
dramatic labor, but sometimes we<br />
cannot anticipate what life will bring<br />
us. It’s important to be in <strong>the</strong> right<br />
place — in this case, a hospital with<br />
leading-edge treatment and <strong>the</strong> right<br />
people <strong>the</strong>re 24 hours a day.”<br />
Christine agrees. “When I saw<br />
Dr. Smolinsky for <strong>the</strong> first follow-up<br />
appointment, I cried in her arms.<br />
Every day, I kiss and hold my two<br />
boys and think, ‘I’m so grateful <strong>the</strong>y<br />
still have <strong>the</strong>ir mommy.’” •<br />
Adi Smolinsky, M.D.<br />
Obstetrics and Gynecology<br />
Atlantic Highlands • 732-291-5121<br />
Experience <strong>the</strong> Best in<br />
Birthing<br />
The medical team at Jane H. Booker<br />
Childbirth Center at Riverview<br />
<strong>Medical</strong> Center practices expert care.<br />
And <strong>the</strong>y do so in an extraordinary<br />
space, specially designed to keep<br />
families safe, happy, and comfortable.<br />
Put your mind at ease with fast<br />
access to skilled obstetricians,<br />
neonatologists, maternal-fetal<br />
specialists, anes<strong>the</strong>siologists, and 24-<br />
hour in-house pediatricians who can<br />
treat any situation during pregnancy<br />
and childbirth. There’s also a level<br />
II nursery for babies requiring<br />
specialized care after birth.<br />
Along with this expertise, we<br />
provide a serene space that allows<br />
you to enjoy your family’s first<br />
moments toge<strong>the</strong>r, featuring:<br />
• Private, spa-like rooms that<br />
overlook <strong>the</strong> Navesink River<br />
• Concierge Care, offering bedside<br />
access to everything from beauty<br />
services to local cuisine and spa<br />
services<br />
• Bella Baby Photography, for<br />
beautiful, artful photos of your<br />
newborn<br />
Baby on Board? We’ll Help You Be Ready<br />
Meridian Health offers classes and seminars for first-time and<br />
experienced parents, as well as tours, classes for siblings, and more!<br />
Registration requested before your third trimester. To learn more about our<br />
fun and informative classes, visit MeridianMomtourage.com.<br />
If additional expertise is needed<br />
with pediatric or neonatal intensive<br />
care, seamless coordination through<br />
Meridian Transfer Center allows<br />
safe transport to K. Hovnanian<br />
Children’s Hospital at <strong>Jersey</strong> <strong>Shore</strong><br />
University <strong>Medical</strong> Center.<br />
V-RMC_Birthday_8.375x3-12_Layout 1 9/5/12 2:35 PM Page 1<br />
Riverview Moms expect <strong>the</strong> best and<br />
our new Childbirth Center delivers.<br />
Now expect more fun at Riverview <strong>Medical</strong> Center’s annual<br />
Childbirth Center Birthday Party and Baby Fair!<br />
First-time and seasoned mommies alike are invited to join us for an<br />
afternoon dedicated to <strong>the</strong> health and wellness of you and your<br />
growing family. Participate in a number of interactive activities from<br />
local vendors, hear <strong>the</strong> latest news and tips for mommies of all walks<br />
of life, get a sneak peak at our beautiful and recently renovated<br />
Childbirth Center, and more! Light refreshments will be served<br />
and all mommies will given a special birthday gift.<br />
This event is FREE but registration is required.<br />
To RSVP call 800.560.9990 or visit<br />
www.Riverview<strong>Medical</strong>Center.com/Birthday<br />
Saturday<br />
<strong>November</strong> 10, 2012<br />
12:00 p.m.- 2:00 p.m.<br />
Joan and Robert Rechnitz<br />
Conference and Education<br />
Center at Riverview<br />
<strong>Medical</strong> Center<br />
Taking Care of<br />
New <strong>Jersey</strong>
MeridianHealth.com • 1-800-DOCTORS<br />
<strong>Jersey</strong> <strong>Shore</strong> University <strong>Medical</strong> Center<br />
Young Athlete Thrives<br />
After Rare Tumor<br />
Twenty-year-old Paige Truax<br />
has always maintained an<br />
energetic, healthy lifestyle<br />
through her love of sports, particularly<br />
swimming. But while spending <strong>the</strong><br />
holidays in Howell after her first<br />
semester of college, Paige felt tired,<br />
and she noticed her stomach seemed<br />
unusually large and swollen.<br />
On <strong>December</strong> 10, 2011, she went<br />
to <strong>Jersey</strong> <strong>Shore</strong> University <strong>Medical</strong><br />
Center, where ultrasound tests<br />
revealed a large cyst on one of<br />
her ovaries. Paige was immediately<br />
admitted for emergency surgery, and<br />
<strong>the</strong> cyst was successfully removed<br />
using minimally invasive techniques.<br />
Her journey didn’t end <strong>the</strong>re,<br />
however. A biopsy of <strong>the</strong> cyst<br />
showed that it was an immature<br />
teratoma, a rare type of cancer that<br />
often occurs in young women.<br />
Finding <strong>the</strong> Right Surgeon<br />
Paige was overwhelmed by <strong>the</strong><br />
diagnosis, but Karim ElSahwi, M.D.,<br />
a gynecologic oncologist affiliated<br />
with Meridian Cancer Care, quickly<br />
eased much of her anxiety.<br />
“Dr. ElSahwi explained everything<br />
in a positive way that made me feel<br />
comfortable,” she says. “By <strong>the</strong> end<br />
of our first meeting, he made me feel<br />
confident that I was going to be fine.”<br />
The next step was removing <strong>the</strong><br />
ovary and determining if Paige’s<br />
cancer had spread. Dr. ElSahwi<br />
determined that he could perform<br />
<strong>the</strong> necessary surgical procedure using<br />
<strong>the</strong> da Vinci® robotic surgical system,<br />
a minimally invasive treatment option<br />
with many advantages.<br />
“The da Vinci robot enables surgeons<br />
to perform complex procedures<br />
through smaller incisions, resulting in<br />
less pain and blood loss, minimal<br />
scarring, a faster recovery<br />
Karim ElSahwi, M.D.<br />
Gynecologic Oncology<br />
Neptune • 732-897-7944<br />
time, and fewer complications,”<br />
explains Dr. ElSahwi.<br />
Advanced Techniques<br />
Promote Healing<br />
On <strong>the</strong> morning of January 5, Paige<br />
was back at <strong>Jersey</strong> <strong>Shore</strong>. “The day of<br />
<strong>the</strong> surgery, I wasn’t scared,” she says,<br />
“especially since <strong>the</strong> team at <strong>Jersey</strong><br />
<strong>Shore</strong> took great care of me for my<br />
first surgery.”<br />
The surgery was a success, and Paige<br />
remained in <strong>the</strong> recovery room for only<br />
a few hours, feeling great and ready to<br />
head home. Luckily, her cancer had not<br />
spread beyond <strong>the</strong> ovary, and she <strong>the</strong>n<br />
began three cycles of chemo<strong>the</strong>rapy<br />
on an outpatient basis. “Chemo<strong>the</strong>rapy<br />
was <strong>the</strong> hardest thing I’ve ever gone<br />
through,” she says.<br />
“Paige was given a lot on her table,”<br />
Dr. ElSahwi notes. “She and her family<br />
handled everything exceptionally well.”<br />
Today, Paige is excited to be<br />
moving forward with school, and<br />
she has a new outlook on life. “I’ve<br />
realized that <strong>the</strong> most important<br />
things are my health and my family’s<br />
health.” • — Kris Tranquilino<br />
After successful treatment for a rare type of cancer, Paige Truax<br />
is moving forward with her life, including spending time with<br />
friends and family on <strong>the</strong> beach in Avon.<br />
Get <strong>the</strong> Facts About <strong>the</strong> Surgery of <strong>the</strong> Future<br />
For more information about robotic surgery with Karim ElSahwi, M.D.,<br />
visit <strong>Jersey</strong><strong>Shore</strong>University<strong>Medical</strong>Center.com/robotics.<br />
8
Robotic Surgery Helps Man<br />
Fight Two Cancers<br />
Point Pleasant resident<br />
Clemence Redenski, 57,<br />
knows what it takes to defeat<br />
cancer — twice. Tumors in his<br />
prostate and kidney are now history,<br />
thanks to his doctors at <strong>the</strong> Center<br />
for Robotic Surgery at <strong>Jersey</strong> <strong>Shore</strong><br />
University <strong>Medical</strong> Center.<br />
“To cope with cancer, you have<br />
to have a strong will and believe<br />
you’re going to be all right, which<br />
I did,” Clemence says. He also had<br />
an expert surgeon: <strong>Jersey</strong> <strong>Shore</strong><br />
urologist Mark Perlmutter, M.D., who<br />
removed both cancers using <strong>the</strong><br />
da Vinci® surgical robot.<br />
<strong>Jersey</strong> <strong>Shore</strong> University <strong>Medical</strong> Center<br />
A Blessing in Disguise<br />
Clemence’s cancer journey began in<br />
July 2011. He sought care for a cough<br />
caused by allergies — but his blood<br />
tests revealed signs of prostate<br />
cancer. A physical examination and<br />
biopsy confirmed <strong>the</strong> diagnosis.<br />
“I said, you’ve got to be kidding<br />
me. It’s cancer?” Clemence<br />
remembers. He was referred to<br />
Dr. Perlmutter, who recommended<br />
a robotic radical prostatectomy to<br />
completely remove <strong>the</strong> prostate.<br />
“This surgery is one of <strong>the</strong> most<br />
complex operations we do in urology,”<br />
Dr. Perlmutter says. “Traditionally,<br />
it’s an involved operation with large<br />
amounts of blood loss — but not<br />
with <strong>the</strong> surgical robot.”<br />
With <strong>the</strong> da Vinci system,<br />
Dr. Perlmutter sits at a console,<br />
manipulating robotic arms that hold<br />
tiny surgical instruments, including<br />
a three-dimensional camera, which<br />
allows him to see inside <strong>the</strong> patient<br />
without large incisions. Because<br />
<strong>the</strong> incisions are small, blood loss,<br />
scarring, and pain are reduced.<br />
Clemence had surgery on<br />
<strong>December</strong> 21, 2011, and went home<br />
on <strong>the</strong> 24th, feeling well enough to<br />
attend Christmas Eve dinner with<br />
family and friends.<br />
With his cancer treatment behind him, Clemence Redenski enjoys fishing, crabbing, and watching<br />
sports in his free time.<br />
A Second Scare<br />
While most patients would have<br />
been glad to take it easy after this,<br />
Clemence had to gear up for a<br />
second challenge: Scans used to<br />
plan his prostate surgery revealed<br />
a suspicious mass on his kidney.<br />
Follow-up studies suggested<br />
kidney cancer. In April, Clemence,<br />
Dr. Perlmutter, and <strong>the</strong> robot<br />
were toge<strong>the</strong>r in <strong>the</strong> operating<br />
room again.<br />
“The robotic system makes it<br />
much easier to treat kidney cancer,”<br />
Dr. Perlmutter says. “We can remove<br />
only <strong>the</strong> diseased portion, ra<strong>the</strong>r<br />
than <strong>the</strong> entire kidney. Studies show<br />
this helps patients live longer.”<br />
Less Pain, Faster Recovery<br />
Mark A. Perlmutter, M.D.<br />
Urology<br />
Manasquan • 732-223-7877<br />
The Right Place for Surgery<br />
Today, Clemence’s cancers have not<br />
returned, and he’s grateful for <strong>the</strong> care he<br />
received at <strong>Jersey</strong> <strong>Shore</strong>. “Dr. Perlmutter<br />
and <strong>the</strong> rest of <strong>the</strong> team were caring<br />
and full of knowledge. They explained<br />
everything completely,” he says.<br />
“This is a great place to have<br />
robotic surgery,” Dr. Perlmutter says.<br />
“We have <strong>the</strong> newest technologies,<br />
and we’re always trying to do things<br />
better for our patients.” •<br />
Robotic-assisted surgery is used at <strong>Jersey</strong> <strong>Shore</strong> to treat many<br />
gynecologic and urologic conditions. Learn about its benefits at<br />
<strong>Jersey</strong><strong>Shore</strong>University<strong>Medical</strong>Center.com/robotics.<br />
9Meridian HealthViews • <strong>November</strong>/<strong>December</strong> 2012
Ocean <strong>Medical</strong> Center<br />
from Two Conditions on Veterans Day<br />
MeridianHealth.com • 1-800-DOCTORS<br />
10<br />
Veterans Day 2011 was one to remember for<br />
Korean War vet Jerry Avergun, who lives in Toms<br />
River. After being rushed to Ocean <strong>Medical</strong><br />
Center with a heart attack, tests revealed<br />
that he had a dangerous ballooning of an<br />
artery in his abdomen, which could be fatal. A<br />
team of specialists who are part of Meridian<br />
CardioVascular Network were able to perform<br />
lifesaving procedures right at Jerry’s local<br />
hospital, and within a few days, he was home<br />
again. “This is truly an amazing case,” says<br />
Rayson Yang, M.D.<br />
As a Korean War veteran, Toms River resident Jerry Avergun has long<br />
marked Veterans Day as a reminder of <strong>the</strong> time he served overseas.<br />
But on Veterans Day last year, <strong>the</strong> holiday took on a new meaning.<br />
Not only would it represent how <strong>the</strong> 83-year-old had fought for his country,<br />
but also how he had fought for his life.<br />
Jerry began <strong>November</strong> 11, 2011, by participating in a Veterans Day parade in his<br />
community of Greenbriar Woodlands, a tradition for <strong>the</strong> past 18 years. Unlike<br />
most years, however, Jerry wasn’t up for continuing <strong>the</strong> celebration afterward<br />
with friends. He didn’t feel well and chose to go home.<br />
There, he quickly deteriorated, losing his appetite, shivering uncontrollably,<br />
and beginning to feel pain near his groin. His wife called <strong>the</strong>ir doctor and was<br />
told to get Jerry to <strong>the</strong> Emergency Department.<br />
At Ocean <strong>Medical</strong> Center, <strong>the</strong> medical team quickly recognized that Jerry<br />
was having a heart attack. But <strong>the</strong> physician on duty had a feeling something<br />
else was going on, too. Additional tests revealed that Jerry also had an iliac<br />
artery aneurysm — a ballooning of an artery in his abdomen. If it burst, Jerry<br />
could die. Specialists were called, and he was rushed to surgery.
A Dire Situation<br />
A heart attack alone is life threatening for any patient. It<br />
occurs when blood flow to a part of <strong>the</strong> heart is blocked.<br />
This results in a lack of oxygen, and <strong>the</strong> heart muscle is<br />
damaged and can die. Paired up with <strong>the</strong> aneurysm, Jerry’s<br />
situation was extremely dire.<br />
Frank Sharp, M.D., a vascular surgeon at Ocean <strong>Medical</strong><br />
Center, explains that an aneurysm is a bulging section in <strong>the</strong><br />
wall of a blood vessel. “Imagine that your artery is a hose<br />
that carries blood from your heart to your legs. Now picture<br />
a section of <strong>the</strong> hose with a bulge that is filled with blood<br />
and is ready to burst,” he continues. “Aneurysms are very<br />
serious because <strong>the</strong>y usually don’t show symptoms until<br />
<strong>the</strong>y rupture. Even if you get to a hospital, it’s about a<br />
50/50 chance between life and death.”<br />
Jerry had several things on his side that fateful day.<br />
First, he was physically fit and in o<strong>the</strong>rwise good health.<br />
Second, an extraordinary team of specialists who are<br />
part of Meridian CardioVascular Network were readily<br />
available to perform lifesaving procedures right at Jerry’s<br />
local hospital. And third, Ocean <strong>Medical</strong> Center has<br />
<strong>the</strong> advanced technology of a state-of-<strong>the</strong>-art hybrid<br />
endovascular suite that enabled <strong>the</strong> doctors to perform<br />
two intricate procedures, back to back, all in one room.<br />
Collaborating on an “Amazing” Case<br />
Two teams of doctors took turns saving Jerry’s life. First,<br />
interventional cardiologist Rayson Yang, M.D., performed<br />
an emergency angioplasty to open Jerry’s arteries. Under a<br />
local anes<strong>the</strong>tic, Jerry was in a relaxed state as <strong>the</strong> doctor<br />
threaded a special device into his blocked artery and<br />
restored <strong>the</strong> blood flow to his heart.<br />
As soon as Jerry’s heart was stabilized, Dr. Sharp and his<br />
vascular team traded places with Dr. Yang’s team and set<br />
to work on <strong>the</strong> aneurysm repair. The teams spent several<br />
hours in <strong>the</strong> endovascular suite, collaborating on one of<br />
<strong>the</strong> most miraculous cases <strong>the</strong>y had experienced in years.<br />
“This is truly an amazing case,” says Dr. Yang. “It was<br />
great to see Jerry sitting up and feeling pretty good<br />
when I checked on him later that evening.” Within a few<br />
Frank J. Sharp, M.D.<br />
Board certified in Vascular and General Surgery<br />
Brick • 732-202-1500<br />
Rayson Yang, M.D.<br />
Board certified in Cardiovascular Disease, Interventional<br />
Cardiology, and Internal Medicine<br />
Neptune • 732-776-8500<br />
days, Jerry was home again, resting and preparing for<br />
Thanksgiving dinner with his family.<br />
In retrospect, <strong>the</strong> doctors determined that <strong>the</strong> pain was<br />
<strong>the</strong> result of <strong>the</strong> ruptured aneurysm, which precipitated<br />
<strong>the</strong> heart attack. “This shows how far technology has<br />
come,” notes Dr. Sharp. “If it were a few years ago, he<br />
probably wouldn’t have survived <strong>the</strong>se circumstances.”<br />
“The doctors and nurses took great care of me and kept<br />
my family informed throughout <strong>the</strong> entire ordeal,” says Jerry.<br />
While his wife, Nancy, was by his side in <strong>the</strong> hospital and an<br />
integral part of his recovery process, she passed away in <strong>the</strong><br />
spring. “Things have changed, but I’ve learned to adjust my<br />
diet and keep active,” Jerry says. “I try to walk each day, play<br />
golf, and also write two columns and proofread <strong>the</strong> Pine<br />
Cone Press community newsletter.” • — Donna Sellmann<br />
Cooking with Heart for <strong>the</strong> Holidays<br />
We’re sharing <strong>the</strong> secrets for favorite holiday dishes<br />
— with a healthy twist. Samples will be provided as a<br />
cardiologist and nutritionist discuss medical, lifestyle, and<br />
dietary options that will keep you on track during <strong>the</strong> season.<br />
<strong>November</strong> 29<br />
4:00 p.m.<br />
Ocean <strong>Medical</strong> Center<br />
Conference Rooms A, B, and C<br />
Explorer.<br />
Barbara didn’t realize that one day her passion would<br />
save her life.<br />
To learn more about Barbara’s minimally invasive procedure, visit<br />
MeridianCardioVascularNetwork.com. For a physician, call 1-800-DOCTORS ®<br />
Research<br />
& Education<br />
Prevention<br />
& Wellness<br />
Diagnosis<br />
Taking Care of<br />
New <strong>Jersey</strong><br />
Meridian CardioVascular Network<br />
<strong>Jersey</strong> <strong>Shore</strong> University <strong>Medical</strong> Center Meridian Network of Physicians<br />
Ocean <strong>Medical</strong> Center<br />
Meridian At Home<br />
Riverview <strong>Medical</strong> Center<br />
Meridian Rehabilitation Centers<br />
K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital<br />
Meridian Life Fitness Centers<br />
Sou<strong>the</strong>rn Ocean <strong>Medical</strong> Center<br />
Bayshore Community Hospital<br />
© Meridian Health 2012<br />
Treatment<br />
Recovery<br />
Home
Sou<strong>the</strong>rn Ocean <strong>Medical</strong> Center<br />
One Appointment<br />
Changes New Gretna Woman’s Life<br />
Christina Walker’s strange and unexplained<br />
symptoms began at age 14. Stomach problems,<br />
headaches, and seizures frequently kept her out of<br />
school. She was told she’d have trouble getting pregnant,<br />
without knowing why. Christina went from doctor to<br />
doctor, searching for answers.<br />
It wasn’t until she met Steven Koerner, D.O., a<br />
gastroenterologist at Sou<strong>the</strong>rn Ocean <strong>Medical</strong> Center,<br />
that she finally received a diagnosis.<br />
Finding Answers Fast<br />
Dr. Koerner heard about Christina’s symptoms from<br />
her mo<strong>the</strong>r, Bambi Walker, a registered nurse in <strong>the</strong><br />
Endoscopy Department at Sou<strong>the</strong>rn Ocean. He suggested<br />
Christina come in for a diagnostic procedure called an<br />
EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy). During this test,<br />
Dr. Koerner placed a long, thin scope down Christina’s<br />
throat and saw telltale signs of intestinal damage.<br />
Christina had celiac disease.<br />
After learning to live well with celiac disease, Christina Walker was overjoyed<br />
to welcome her first child, a baby girl named Sage.<br />
When people with this immune disorder eat gluten — a<br />
protein in wheat, rye, and barley — <strong>the</strong>ir bodies attack <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
small intestines, causing <strong>the</strong> sort of damage Dr. Koerner saw<br />
in Christina. The condition affects about one in 100 people.<br />
Having type 1 diabetes or ano<strong>the</strong>r immune disease puts<br />
you at even higher risk. Along with <strong>the</strong> symptoms Christina<br />
experienced, signs of celiac disease may include bloating,<br />
gas, weight loss, anemia, or a painful, itchy rash.<br />
“The signs aren’t specific, so it may take several<br />
specialists and sometimes years before patients are<br />
diagnosed properly,” Dr. Koerner says. “At Sou<strong>the</strong>rn Ocean,<br />
we have physicians who are well-versed in looking for and<br />
treating this disease, as well as dieticians who can help<br />
patients follow a gluten-free diet.”<br />
Learning to Eat Again<br />
Following a gluten-free diet is <strong>the</strong> only treatment for<br />
celiac disease. It means avoiding bread, pasta, and pizza,<br />
as well as many restaurant and processed foods. “It was<br />
tricky at first, but I read labels and learned what foods I<br />
could and couldn’t have,” Christina says.<br />
Going gluten-free not only eases symptoms, but can also<br />
prevent serious complications of celiac disease, which<br />
include osteoporosis, infertility, thyroid disease, and<br />
even cancer.<br />
Now 25, Christina feels great and just welcomed her<br />
first child, a baby girl named Sage, in June 2012. The New<br />
Gretna resident was so pleased with her experience at<br />
Sou<strong>the</strong>rn Ocean, she chose to have Sage <strong>the</strong>re.<br />
“They found out what was going on with me when nobody<br />
else could,” Christina says. “And <strong>the</strong> staff and doctors are<br />
kind, compassionate, and care about you as a patient.<br />
“After all this time, I finally know what’s wrong. Now, I<br />
have relief.” •<br />
MeridianHealth.com • 1-800-DOCTORS<br />
12<br />
Steven Koerner, D.O.<br />
Board certified in Gastroenterology and Internal Medicine<br />
Manahawkin • 609-597-6513<br />
Could an EGD Help You?<br />
Find out how an esophagogastroduodenoscopy<br />
works by listening to our podcast. Visit<br />
wellnesscenter.meridianhealth.com/MultimediaRoom<br />
and click on “Podcasts,” <strong>the</strong>n “Gastroenterology.”
Managing a<br />
Pregnancy Close to Home<br />
Michael Sze, M.D.<br />
Board certified in Obstetrics<br />
and Gynecology<br />
Manahawkin • 609-978-9841<br />
Sou<strong>the</strong>rn Ocean <strong>Medical</strong> Center<br />
Kristine Zellman calls her youngest son, Aiden, “a very strong little boy” who loves watching his older<br />
bro<strong>the</strong>r, Philip, and older sister, Emily. Her obstetrical team at Sou<strong>the</strong>rn Ocean <strong>Medical</strong> Center met its<br />
goal of keeping her high-risk pregnancy “unremarkable.”<br />
Kristine Zellman of Little Egg<br />
Harbor already had two<br />
healthy children — 9-year-old<br />
Philip and 4-year-old Emily — when<br />
she became pregnant again at age 31.<br />
She also had a complicated medical<br />
history, and she knew <strong>the</strong> next nine<br />
months would be tough.<br />
“I was nervous,” she recalls, “and<br />
while it didn’t hold me back, <strong>the</strong> fact<br />
that my pregnancy was high risk was<br />
always in <strong>the</strong> back of my mind.”<br />
Fortunately, Kristine was partnered<br />
with a dedicated obstetrical team<br />
at Sou<strong>the</strong>rn Ocean <strong>Medical</strong> Center.<br />
Her obstetrician, Michael Sze, M.D.,<br />
monitored her closely throughout<br />
her pregnancy.<br />
Top-Notch Care That’s Convenient, Too<br />
“Kristine had several health<br />
factors, any of which could have<br />
caused complications through her<br />
pregnancy,” he explains. “She has<br />
what is known as factor V Leiden<br />
deficiency, which is a blood-clotting<br />
disorder, and pregnancy makes<br />
this condition worse. She also has<br />
polycystic kidney disease, so we<br />
had to carefully monitor her kidney<br />
function. And she has chronic<br />
hypertension, which can increase<br />
<strong>the</strong> risk for preeclampsia, a dangerous<br />
condition that can occur<br />
during pregnancy.”<br />
Combined, <strong>the</strong>se conditions<br />
raised Kristine’s risk of developing<br />
o<strong>the</strong>r illnesses while pregnant, but<br />
<strong>the</strong> experts at Sou<strong>the</strong>rn Ocean<br />
were prepared. “Dr. Sze was very<br />
informative, reassuring, and positive<br />
about things,” says Kristine. “There<br />
was a lot of testing and a lot of<br />
office visits. He often answered my<br />
questions before I even asked <strong>the</strong>m.<br />
I can’t say enough about all <strong>the</strong><br />
support and <strong>the</strong> attentive care<br />
I received from Dr. Sze and <strong>the</strong><br />
entire office staff.”<br />
The team was ready on April 18,<br />
2012, when Kristine gave birth to<br />
Aiden, a healthy baby boy.<br />
“It takes <strong>the</strong> coordination of our<br />
whole team of physicians to ensure<br />
a good outcome,” says Dr. Sze.<br />
“Kristine was a model patient and<br />
followed up with every visit and<br />
every instruction. Our goal was<br />
to keep her high-risk pregnancy<br />
unremarkable, and we were<br />
successful in that.”<br />
Kristine was grateful for this<br />
care — and grateful it was available<br />
close to home. “I was thankful that I<br />
did not have to travel or change my<br />
family routine to get safely through<br />
my pregnancy,” says Kristine. “I was<br />
always close to home, close to my<br />
husband, Tom, and able to care for<br />
my kids. And I loved having my baby<br />
in <strong>the</strong> Sou<strong>the</strong>rn Ocean Maternity<br />
Pavilion. The staff was unbelievable<br />
and I couldn’t be happier with <strong>the</strong><br />
entire experience. Everything was<br />
perfect.” • — Joyce McFadden<br />
Sou<strong>the</strong>rn Ocean <strong>Medical</strong> Center’s board certified obstetrical team offers expert care for women facing high-risk<br />
pregnancies. You can stay close to home and have a healthy and safe pregnancy, labor, and delivery.<br />
Meridian HealthViews • <strong>November</strong>/<strong>December</strong> 2012<br />
13
<strong>Jersey</strong> <strong>Shore</strong> University <strong>Medical</strong> Center<br />
MeridianHealth.com • 1-800-DOCTORS<br />
Tailored to Perfection<br />
A team of physicians helps a creative mom manage her high-risk pregnancy<br />
As a talented seamstress who<br />
creates beautifully tailored<br />
clo<strong>the</strong>s and upholstery,<br />
Tascha Krapf knows that <strong>the</strong> best<br />
handcrafted goods require expertise<br />
and planning. She applied <strong>the</strong>se same<br />
principles when she and her husband,<br />
Dan, decided to start a family. That’s<br />
because Tascha, 32, has type 1 diabetes,<br />
a condition that makes her pregnancies<br />
high risk. To manage her health, as<br />
well as that of her baby, she turned to<br />
<strong>Jersey</strong> <strong>Shore</strong> University <strong>Medical</strong> Center.<br />
Thanks to a team effort from her doctors, plus her<br />
own preparedness, Tascha Krapf, who has type 1<br />
diabetes, gave birth to a healthy baby boy.<br />
Join Us for a Weekend of Women’s Wellness!<br />
“You have to be vigilant. You want<br />
to do your best so that you don’t<br />
harm yourself or your baby during <strong>the</strong><br />
pregnancy,” Tascha says.<br />
Experts Work Toge<strong>the</strong>r<br />
The Manahawkin resident managed<br />
her first high-risk pregnancy in 2009,<br />
before her son Lucas was born, and in<br />
2011 she prepared to follow <strong>the</strong> same<br />
drill again. Step one was getting her<br />
diabetes under control. Tascha, a native<br />
of Denmark, has coped with diabetes<br />
since 1996 and wears an insulin pump to<br />
keep her blood sugar levels in check.<br />
“Diabetes is all about three things:<br />
insulin management, exercise, and<br />
nutrition,” she explains. “You really<br />
have to be on it. I test my blood sugar<br />
up to nine times a day.”<br />
When her diabetes was stable and<br />
she became pregnant, Tascha visited<br />
her OB/GYN, Steven Morgan, M.D., at<br />
<strong>Jersey</strong> <strong>Shore</strong>. He recommended <strong>the</strong>y<br />
work toge<strong>the</strong>r with two colleagues:<br />
obstetric internist and primary care<br />
physician Michael Carson, M.D.,<br />
who specializes in medical disorders<br />
during pregnancy and would monitor<br />
Tascha’s diabetes, and maternal-fetal<br />
medicine specialist Kolawole Oyelese,<br />
M.D., who would focus on <strong>the</strong> baby’s<br />
development.<br />
“Tascha was a conscientious<br />
patient who was aware of<br />
<strong>the</strong> challenges associated<br />
with a high-risk<br />
pregnancy,” Dr. Morgan<br />
says. “She prepared<br />
herself well and was<br />
receptive to <strong>the</strong><br />
team approach<br />
that Dr. Carson,<br />
Steven A. Morgan, M.D.<br />
Board certified in Obstetrics<br />
and Gynecology<br />
Ocean • 732-531-1136<br />
Dr. Oyelese, and I advocated. This<br />
was a true team effort.”<br />
Constant Monitoring<br />
One key component of her care was<br />
regular checkups and screenings.<br />
Dr. Oyelese was particularly<br />
concerned with <strong>the</strong> fetus’s heart<br />
development, as babies born to<br />
mo<strong>the</strong>rs with diabetes often have<br />
heart defects. Tascha saw him every<br />
four to six weeks. She also regularly<br />
visited Drs. Morgan and Carson.<br />
“As with all high-risk pregnancies,<br />
Tascha required constant<br />
monitoring,” Dr. Carson says.<br />
This teamwork paid off on June 25,<br />
2012, when Dr. Morgan helped Tascha<br />
deliver Noah, a healthy baby boy.<br />
“My experience with <strong>the</strong> team at<br />
<strong>Jersey</strong> <strong>Shore</strong> was <strong>the</strong> best,” Tascha<br />
says. “All <strong>the</strong> physicians worked<br />
toge<strong>the</strong>r, and I knew I was getting<br />
<strong>the</strong> best care possible.” •<br />
Meridian Health will once again sponsor <strong>the</strong> New <strong>Jersey</strong> Women’s Expo, held October 27<br />
and 28 at Brookdale Community College. Join us for physician panels, health screenings, and<br />
refreshments in <strong>the</strong> Meridian Momtourage lounge. For details, visit NJWomensExpo.com.<br />
Michael Carson, M.D.<br />
Board certified in Internal Medicine<br />
Neptune • 732-897-3990<br />
Kolawole Oyelese, M.D.<br />
Board certified in Obstetrics<br />
and Gynecology and Maternal<br />
Fetal Medicine<br />
Neptune • 732-776-4755<br />
14
Getting UFC’s<br />
Ocean <strong>Medical</strong> Center<br />
Back in<br />
<strong>the</strong> Ring<br />
Brick resident Nick Catone<br />
discovered his calling in life<br />
at age 7, when he took up<br />
wrestling. After competing through<br />
high school and college, Nick, now<br />
30, expanded his skills and became<br />
accomplished in martial arts and<br />
boxing. Today, he is an Ultimate<br />
Fighting Championship (UFC) fighter,<br />
nicknamed “The <strong>Jersey</strong> Devil,” with<br />
an international following.<br />
But that dedication came at a cost:<br />
More than 20 years of training caused<br />
wear and tear on Nick’s body. He<br />
needed <strong>the</strong> help of Ocean <strong>Medical</strong><br />
Center to get back in fighting form.<br />
Treatment Focused on<br />
Performance<br />
“A few years ago, I could tell that<br />
my training was taking a toll on<br />
my shoulder,” says Nick, who owns<br />
Nick Catone’s Mixed Martial Arts<br />
Academy in Brick and volunteers<br />
with <strong>the</strong> wrestling program at his<br />
former high school <strong>the</strong>re. Needing<br />
a sports medicine expert close to<br />
home, he made an appointment<br />
with Jason Nitche, M.D., an<br />
orthopedic surgeon at Ocean who<br />
focuses on sports medicine.<br />
“When I first saw Nick in 2010,<br />
he had chronic overuse injuries,<br />
After several injuries, Ocean <strong>Medical</strong> Center helped get UFC fighter Nick Catone back in form. Nick owns a<br />
training gym in Brick, where he teaches more than 300 students, including Ricky Badejas and Brian Decker.<br />
including bone spurs, arthritis, and<br />
tears in his shoulder,” explains<br />
Dr. Nitche. “I treated Nick so that he<br />
could get back to his sport.”<br />
Dr. Nitche performed surgery to<br />
remove <strong>the</strong> bone spur — a small<br />
bony growth that formed on <strong>the</strong><br />
edge of Nick’s shoulder. He also<br />
treated torn tissue in <strong>the</strong> joint at <strong>the</strong><br />
time of surgery.<br />
Nick was once again in peak<br />
condition until <strong>the</strong> following<br />
September, when he ruptured his<br />
Achilles tendon during training. The<br />
painful injury required surgery, and<br />
he wouldn’t have trusted anyone but<br />
Dr. Nitche and Ocean’s experts to<br />
perform it.<br />
“I had no doubt that I would be<br />
in good hands with Dr. Nitche,” Nick<br />
recalls. “He understood what I did for<br />
a living, and I knew he’d provide <strong>the</strong><br />
extra time and care to help me get<br />
back to where I wanted to be.”<br />
Back to Good Health<br />
Jason A. Nitche, M.D.<br />
Orthopedic Surgery<br />
Brick • 732-840-7500<br />
Fighting Back<br />
Dr. Nitche successfully performed<br />
<strong>the</strong> procedure and started Nick on<br />
a focused and aggressive physical<br />
rehabilitation program.<br />
“With a specialty in sports medicine,<br />
I treat athletes with a different<br />
perspective than general orthopedic<br />
surgeons,” says Dr. Nitche. “Not only<br />
do we correct <strong>the</strong> problem, we do so<br />
in a way that helps <strong>the</strong> athlete get back<br />
to a high level of performance.”<br />
Thanks to this care, Nick was back<br />
to UFC fighting in 10 months.<br />
“I’m still as explosive as I used to<br />
be,” he says. •<br />
You may not be a UFC fighter, but chances are, at some point you’ll be<br />
faced with back pain. Learn what you can do to prevent this common<br />
health problem at a free seminar on <strong>November</strong> 13. The details are on page 24.<br />
Meridian HealthViews • <strong>November</strong>/<strong>December</strong> 2012<br />
15
Riverview <strong>Medical</strong> Center<br />
Riverview Experts<br />
Save Young Athlete’s Season<br />
Logan Whelan, 12, can’t imagine his life without sports. He<br />
loves baseball and lacrosse and was already looking ahead<br />
to basketball season when a tackle during a football game<br />
in fall 2011 threatened to put his athletic ambitions on hold. With<br />
his shoulder in severe pain, Logan was taken by ambulance to<br />
<strong>the</strong> Pediatric Care Center at Riverview <strong>Medical</strong> Center, part of<br />
Meridian Pediatric Network.<br />
There, Steven Lisser, M.D., a board certified orthopedic surgeon<br />
and sports medicine physician, diagnosed Logan with a shoulder<br />
fracture through <strong>the</strong> growth plate. This injury sometimes requires<br />
surgery, making Logan anxious about his athletic future. “He was<br />
in so much pain, but all he could think about was being healed<br />
in time for basketball,” recalls his mo<strong>the</strong>r, Larson.<br />
MeridianHealth.com • 1-800-DOCTORS<br />
16<br />
Thanks to <strong>the</strong> expert care he received in <strong>the</strong> Emergency Department at<br />
Riverview <strong>Medical</strong> Center, Logan, 12, of Little Silver was able to quickly<br />
recover from a football injury in time for basketball season, helping his<br />
team go undefeated and win <strong>the</strong> championship.<br />
Steven P. Lisser, M.D.<br />
Board certified in Orthopedic Surgery<br />
and Sports Medicine<br />
Red Bank • 732-741-2313<br />
We Help Keep You Moving<br />
From nonsurgical treatment to major joint<br />
replacement, Riverview <strong>Medical</strong> Center is<br />
home to a team of experts and technology that<br />
can get you back on <strong>the</strong> tennis court, treadmill, or<br />
just doing <strong>the</strong> things you love. Find out more at<br />
Riverview<strong>Medical</strong>Center.com/RMC/services.<br />
Easing Fears, Informing Family<br />
“Growth plates are <strong>the</strong> cartilage, or soft part, at <strong>the</strong> end of<br />
child’s bones where bone growth occurs,” explains Dr. Lisser.<br />
“Shoulders, hips, knees, and o<strong>the</strong>r joints are at high risk for<br />
injury at <strong>the</strong> growth plate because <strong>the</strong>y are weaker, especially<br />
during children’s growth spurts.”<br />
Treatment of growth plate fractures depends on <strong>the</strong><br />
severity of <strong>the</strong> injury. In certain cases, casting or splinting<br />
may be done to support and stabilize <strong>the</strong> fracture area, while<br />
complex fractures may require surgery to provide <strong>the</strong> best<br />
possibility for future bone growth. Logan was concerned<br />
about needing surgery since that would delay his return to<br />
sports. The Riverview team helped him cope.<br />
“Everyone in <strong>the</strong> Emergency Department was phenomenal<br />
in easing Logan’s fears and making him comfortable while<br />
keeping me informed,” Larson says.<br />
Quick Recovery<br />
Dr. Lisser concluded that for Logan’s type of fracture, surgery<br />
would not be necessary. Logan would need a conservative<br />
plan of care, including a sling, close monitoring, and some rest.<br />
“Not only was Dr. Lisser knowledgeable, I could tell he<br />
cared about Logan,” says Larson. “He knew how important it<br />
was to Logan to heal as quickly as possible. He didn’t want to<br />
perform surgery unless it was absolutely necessary, but he was<br />
careful to ensure that <strong>the</strong> bones were properly healed before<br />
letting Logan play again.”<br />
After only seven weeks, Logan began slowly using his arm.<br />
By <strong>December</strong> 5, he was healthy enough to accomplish one of<br />
his greatest goals: making his school basketball team, <strong>the</strong> Little<br />
Silver Warriors.<br />
“From <strong>the</strong> moment we arrived at Riverview, everyone bent over<br />
backward for us,” Larson says. “They understood our concerns,<br />
met our needs, and provided great care. I can’t thank <strong>the</strong>m<br />
enough for what <strong>the</strong>y did for Logan and couldn’t have asked for<br />
more as a parent.” • — Caitlin Coyle
Changes Keansburg Dad’s Life<br />
Keansburg resident Alex Cabezas knew he was<br />
overweight. But it wasn’t until <strong>the</strong> 40-year-old’s<br />
scale showed 307 pounds — a number he never<br />
thought he would see — that Alex realized he had to<br />
make a change. He turned to <strong>the</strong> Center for Bariatrics at<br />
Bayshore Community Hospital.<br />
“I had put surgery on <strong>the</strong> back burner before, but<br />
I was starting to feel unsafe,” says Alex, who also had<br />
diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea, a group of<br />
conditions that put his heart in danger. “I knew I wanted<br />
to have weight-loss surgery, but I wasn’t sure where to<br />
start. Then I heard about a lecture at Bayshore.”<br />
Bayshore Community Hospital<br />
A Life-Changing Lecture<br />
The lecture was presented by Karl Strom, M.D., medical<br />
director of <strong>the</strong> Center for Bariatrics and a physician on<br />
staff at Bayshore. Afterward, Alex was so impressed<br />
he immediately scheduled his surgery. He opted for a<br />
procedure called a sleeve gastrectomy, which works by<br />
reducing <strong>the</strong> stomach’s volume so that it can’t hold as much.<br />
“During <strong>the</strong> gastric sleeve procedure, <strong>the</strong> stomach is<br />
narrowed into a thin sleeve, approximately <strong>the</strong> size and shape<br />
of a banana,” explains Dr. Strom. “The smaller stomach helps<br />
patients feel fuller with much smaller portions of food, while<br />
allowing for normal digestion and absorption of nutrients.”<br />
Alex underwent his surgery on February 3, 2012, with<br />
Dr. Strom and Silvia Fresco, M.D., a bariatric surgeon also on<br />
staff at Bayshore. Since <strong>the</strong>n, Alex has lost nearly 100 pounds.<br />
After bariatric surgery helped Alex Cabezas lose 92 pounds, <strong>the</strong> Keansburg<br />
resident is more active than he’s been in 20 years. He maintains his healthy new<br />
lifestyle by working out, playing softball, and visiting <strong>the</strong> beach with his 9-yearold<br />
twin sons, Louis (left) and Alexander.<br />
‘A New Person’<br />
Alex attributes his success to <strong>the</strong> comprehensive program<br />
<strong>the</strong> Center offers. Besides <strong>the</strong> surgery itself, Bayshore’s<br />
experts provide education and a lifetime of follow-up<br />
care and support to help patients keep <strong>the</strong> weight off.<br />
“I feel like a new person,” says Alex. “From <strong>the</strong> moment<br />
I attended <strong>the</strong> lecture through my follow-up appointments<br />
and support group, I have felt like part of a family.<br />
Everyone at Bayshore made me feel confident in my<br />
decision and helped me overcome any barriers so that I<br />
could concentrate on my surgery and getting well again.”<br />
You Can Change Your Life, Too<br />
Karl W. Strom, M.D.<br />
Board certified in General Surgery<br />
Holmdel • 732-739-5925<br />
“Every day I have a new ‘ah-ha!’ moment,” says Alex.<br />
“My greatest one was shortly after my surgery when my<br />
son hugged me and said, ‘Daddy, this is <strong>the</strong> first time I<br />
can put my arms around you.’ That was special. I think<br />
anyone considering weight-loss surgery should attend a<br />
lecture with Dr. Strom. It really did change my life.” •<br />
— Caitlin Coyle<br />
If you’re more than 100 pounds overweight and have been unsuccessful at losing weight with<br />
traditional methods, surgery may be right for you. Visit BayshoreHospital.org to learn more about<br />
<strong>the</strong> surgical options we offer, and see page 25 for <strong>the</strong> upcoming schedule of our free weekly seminars.<br />
Meridian HealthViews • <strong>November</strong>/<strong>December</strong> 2012<br />
17
K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital<br />
Specialized<br />
Pediatric Care<br />
Saves<br />
Choking<br />
Toddler<br />
MeridianHealth.com • 1-800-DOCTORS<br />
18<br />
Lakewood mom Adina Greenbaum knew something was seriously wrong with her baby, Mickey, when he<br />
wouldn’t stop wheezing. Her local hospital couldn’t spot <strong>the</strong> problem, but an ENT expert in Meridian Pediatric<br />
Network could. Now, Mickey’s back to normal life with his mom and dad.<br />
It was a typical February afternoon<br />
in Lakewood. Mickey Greenbaum,<br />
age 11 months, was playing with<br />
his older bro<strong>the</strong>rs while <strong>the</strong>ir mom,<br />
Adina, made dinner.<br />
Suddenly, Adina noticed that<br />
something was wrong with Mickey.<br />
“I could tell he was choking and<br />
having difficulty breathing,” she says.<br />
“I was in a panic.”<br />
Like any parent in that situation,<br />
she reacted quickly. She swooped<br />
her finger into Mickey’s mouth and<br />
felt something in his throat. But in<br />
trying to get <strong>the</strong> object out, she<br />
lodged it fur<strong>the</strong>r into his windpipe.<br />
She knew she had to call 911 to get an<br />
ambulance <strong>the</strong>re immediately.<br />
Insisting on a Second<br />
Opinion<br />
At <strong>the</strong> local emergency department,<br />
doctors couldn’t find <strong>the</strong> cause of<br />
Mickey’s choking. “They took some<br />
X-rays and told me <strong>the</strong>y didn’t see<br />
anything,” Adina says.<br />
Meanwhile, Mickey was still<br />
wheezing, and he could only brea<strong>the</strong><br />
if he was lying on his back. When<br />
he sat up, <strong>the</strong> object obstructed his<br />
breathing completely.<br />
“I knew <strong>the</strong>re was something in<br />
his throat,” Adina says, “and I felt<br />
very strongly about getting a more<br />
extensive evaluation.”<br />
Accessing a Team of Experts<br />
That’s when <strong>the</strong> Greenbaum family<br />
was transferred to K. Hovnanian<br />
Children’s Hospital at <strong>Jersey</strong> <strong>Shore</strong><br />
University <strong>Medical</strong> Center.<br />
“When we arrived at The Children’s<br />
Hospital, <strong>the</strong>re was a whole team of<br />
nurses waiting for us,” Adina recalls.<br />
The family also met pediatric<br />
specialist Samuel Engel, M.D., an<br />
ear, nose, and throat physician<br />
with Meridian Pediatric Network.<br />
Dr. Engel explained that he would<br />
perform a specialized procedure<br />
called a bronchoscopy. Using a scope<br />
and camera, he would examine<br />
A Free Resource for Parents<br />
We’re pleased to offer you Check Up!, a complete guide<br />
to children’s health from Meridian Pediatric Network.<br />
For your copy, email us at kidviews@meridianhealth.com.<br />
Please write “Check Up” in <strong>the</strong> subject line.<br />
Samuel H. Engel, M.D.<br />
Board certified in<br />
Otolaryngology<br />
Neptune • 732-280-7855<br />
Mickey’s airway to look for foreign<br />
objects. “If a foreign object is seen,<br />
it can be removed at <strong>the</strong> same time<br />
through <strong>the</strong> scope,” Dr. Engel says.<br />
“This procedure is only performed by<br />
highly trained pediatric specialists.”<br />
With Mickey, <strong>the</strong> procedure was a<br />
success, and Dr. Engel returned to <strong>the</strong><br />
boy’s parents within just 25 minutes.<br />
He carried a small container holding<br />
what had caused Mickey to choke:<br />
<strong>the</strong> tip of a green crayon.<br />
“We were very relieved that was<br />
out of him,” Adina says.<br />
Today, thanks to <strong>the</strong> responsive<br />
care and expertise of nurses and<br />
specialists at K. Hovnanian Children’s<br />
Hospital, Mickey is back to playing<br />
with his bro<strong>the</strong>rs and spending time<br />
with his parents at <strong>the</strong> park. •<br />
First Aid<br />
Advice Inside!<br />
Check Up!<br />
Your guide to kids’ health from<br />
Meridian Pediatric Network<br />
Tips for Choosing<br />
Your Child’s Doctor<br />
Save This Helpful<br />
Guide to Refer to<br />
All Year Long!<br />
Kid-Friendly Emergency<br />
Centers Near You!
Offers Tips for Staying Fit This Winter<br />
When <strong>the</strong> temperatures drop, don’t let your activity levels<br />
drop off, too — especially if you normally spend <strong>the</strong><br />
holidays around <strong>the</strong> buffet table. Soccer player Christie<br />
Rampone offers tips for staying fit this season.<br />
“Living in a cold-wea<strong>the</strong>r state can be challenging in <strong>the</strong><br />
winter, but I try to do outdoor activities as much as possible,”<br />
says Christie, an Olympic athlete, medal winner, working mom,<br />
and spokesperson for K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital at <strong>Jersey</strong><br />
<strong>Shore</strong> University <strong>Medical</strong> Center. “I try not to use <strong>the</strong> wea<strong>the</strong>r as<br />
a reason not to exercise.”<br />
Taking <strong>the</strong> dog for a walk is a great way to exercise outdoors,<br />
Christie says. And so is sledding. “The longer and steeper <strong>the</strong> hill, <strong>the</strong><br />
far<strong>the</strong>r and harder it becomes to walk back up, and <strong>the</strong> kids love it!”<br />
Olympic athlete and working mom Christie Rampone doesn’t let<br />
winter wea<strong>the</strong>r interrupt her family’s fitness routine. Indoors or<br />
out, <strong>the</strong>re are lots of ways to keep moving.<br />
Meridian Health<br />
Snow Day Safety Tips<br />
When it’s cold out, keep in mind <strong>the</strong>se tips for staying safe and<br />
warm while working out:<br />
• Warm up first. Your muscles, ligaments, and tendons are<br />
more likely to get injured when cold.<br />
• Dress in light layers. The innermost layer should be made<br />
of breathable fabric that lets sweat pass through. Avoid<br />
tightly woven fabrics or heavy cotton sweats. The outer<br />
layer should protect you from <strong>the</strong> wind. “Technology has<br />
allowed for better winter clo<strong>the</strong>s,” Christie says. “They’re<br />
lighter weight while still keeping you warm and dry.”<br />
• Don’t forget your hat. Up to 50 percent of body heat lost<br />
while outside comes from a bare head and neck.<br />
• Drink plenty of fluids. It’s easy to get dehydrated without<br />
realizing it in cold wea<strong>the</strong>r, so be sure to bring your water bottle.<br />
When to Move It Inside<br />
Ano<strong>the</strong>r option is to move your favorite summer activity<br />
inside. Walk at <strong>the</strong> mall, swim in an indoor pool, or shoot<br />
hoops on an indoor court.<br />
You might also consider a gym membership for your family.<br />
“I attend <strong>the</strong> Training Room in Avon and Point Pleasant for kettlebell,<br />
cardio, and yoga workouts,” says Christie. “For <strong>the</strong> kids, you can rent a<br />
facility like Stainton Sports in Neptune for soccer or lacrosse.”<br />
At home, a new fitness toy — such as a stability ball, hand<br />
weights, an exercise DVD, or a fitness video game — can boost<br />
your motivation.<br />
“The hardest thing to do is get in shape after gaining weight<br />
and avoiding activity, so don’t let <strong>the</strong> cold wea<strong>the</strong>r and holiday<br />
time interrupt your routine,” Christie says. • — Gabriella Heizler<br />
Keep Up with Christie!<br />
Resident soccer star Christie Rampone offers more fitness<br />
tips and insights into parenting in her blog on Meridian<br />
Momtourage. Check it out today at MeridianMomtourage.com.<br />
Meridian HealthViews • <strong>November</strong>/<strong>December</strong> 2012<br />
19
Gift Ensures Ocean <strong>Medical</strong> Center Is<br />
Meridian Health<br />
Growing Toge<strong>the</strong>r with<br />
Our Community<br />
Hirair and Anna Hovnanian<br />
The Hirair and Anna Hovnanian Emergency Care Center will more than triple <strong>the</strong> size of <strong>the</strong> existing<br />
Emergency Department at Ocean <strong>Medical</strong> Center. It’s part of a transformational gift of $5 million made by<br />
<strong>the</strong> Hirair and Anna Hovnanian Foundation Inc. to Ocean <strong>Medical</strong> Center in 2012.<br />
MeridianHealth.com • 1-800-DOCTORS<br />
Nearly 50 years ago, Armenian<br />
immigrant and philanthropist<br />
Hirair S. Hovnanian<br />
purchased a parcel of land in Brick<br />
and developed his first Holiday City<br />
project. Since <strong>the</strong>n, his company,<br />
Hovsons Inc., has built tens of<br />
thousands of homes and developed<br />
thousands of acres of land, much of<br />
it in Ocean County.<br />
With such close ties to <strong>the</strong><br />
community, it’s not surprising that<br />
<strong>the</strong> Hirair and Anna Hovnanian<br />
Foundation Inc. decided to make a<br />
transformational gift of $5 million to<br />
Ocean <strong>Medical</strong> Center in April 2012 as<br />
part of <strong>the</strong> <strong>Medical</strong> Center’s Master<br />
Facility Plan, which includes a new<br />
Emergency Department.<br />
Originally designed to treat<br />
17,000 patients, Ocean’s Emergency<br />
Department now sees more than<br />
51,400 patients annually. Ranked<br />
among <strong>the</strong> best hospitals in <strong>the</strong><br />
nation by U.S. News & World Report,<br />
Ocean is committed to upgrading its<br />
service as <strong>the</strong> community’s premier<br />
emergency care provider.<br />
The Hirair and Anna Hovnanian<br />
Emergency Care Center, named for<br />
Hirair and his wife of 53 years, Anna,<br />
will more than triple <strong>the</strong> size of <strong>the</strong><br />
existing department.<br />
“My parents are deeply invested<br />
in both <strong>the</strong> local community and<br />
<strong>the</strong> Armenian community through<br />
philanthropy,” says Edele Hovnanian,<br />
vice president and director of<br />
<strong>the</strong> Hirair and Anna Hovnanian<br />
Foundation Inc., which also includes<br />
her four siblings. “My fa<strong>the</strong>r is forever<br />
indebted to Ocean County for so<br />
much of his success, and he has made<br />
a conscious effort to ingrain in his<br />
children <strong>the</strong> importance of giving<br />
back to <strong>the</strong> community.”<br />
The gift, one of <strong>the</strong> largest ever<br />
given to an organization in Ocean<br />
County, was presented as a Challenge<br />
Gift. That means <strong>the</strong>y will match,<br />
dollar for dollar, all funds raised from<br />
<strong>the</strong> community, up to $5 million.<br />
“As a foundation, we feel strongly<br />
that we should select projects that<br />
will have a lasting impact on <strong>the</strong><br />
Help Us Invest in Ocean County’s Future<br />
community,” explains Edele. “Health<br />
care is constantly changing, and it is<br />
important for providers to be ahead<br />
of <strong>the</strong> curve and anticipate <strong>the</strong> future<br />
health care needs of <strong>the</strong> community.<br />
Ocean <strong>Medical</strong> Center is continuously<br />
designing <strong>the</strong>ir services for tomorrow,<br />
and we really respect that.”<br />
This inspirational gift will transform<br />
<strong>the</strong> way emergency care is provided.<br />
“The miracle of healing, <strong>the</strong> science<br />
of medicine, and <strong>the</strong> spirit of caring<br />
are provided every day at Ocean<br />
<strong>Medical</strong> Center. The generosity of<br />
our donors is essential to continue<br />
this important mission and to fund<br />
clinical innovation,” says Dean Q. Lin,<br />
president of Ocean <strong>Medical</strong> Center.<br />
The new facility is anticipated to<br />
open in February 2014. •<br />
— Gabriella Heizler<br />
The Growing Toge<strong>the</strong>r Capital Campaign will fund emergency care<br />
enhancements at Ocean <strong>Medical</strong> Center and its satellite Emergency<br />
Department, <strong>the</strong> Ocean Care Center, in Point Pleasant. For more information<br />
about giving, call 732-751-5116.<br />
20
Meridian <strong>November</strong>/<strong>December</strong> 2012<br />
Community Health Programs<br />
All programs are FREE unless o<strong>the</strong>rwise noted. Reserve your spot by calling 1-800-DOCTORS (1-800-362-8677) or<br />
1-800-560-9990 or by visiting MeridianHealth.com. In cases of severe wea<strong>the</strong>r, a program may be canceled as late<br />
as an hour before <strong>the</strong> start time. Call 1-800-DOCTORS or 1-800-560-9990 to confirm.<br />
Diabetes Awareness Day Events<br />
Whe<strong>the</strong>r you have diabetes or know someone who does, this<br />
event is for you. Experts in diabetes management and nutrition<br />
will be available for consultation. Screenings for cholesterol,<br />
blood glucose, and blood pressure will be provided. Vendors will<br />
display <strong>the</strong> latest information and technology and be available<br />
to assist with diabetes supplies and related questions. Light<br />
refreshments will be served.<br />
<strong>November</strong> 3, 10:00 a.m. – noon<br />
Sou<strong>the</strong>rn Ocean <strong>Medical</strong> Center Lobby<br />
Lecture by endocrinologist Sajjad Hussain, M.D.<br />
<strong>November</strong> 9, 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.<br />
<strong>Jersey</strong> <strong>Shore</strong> University <strong>Medical</strong> Center<br />
Lance Auditorium<br />
Free valet parking available<br />
<strong>November</strong> 15, noon – 1:00 p.m. lecture<br />
1:00 – 2:00 p.m. free screenings<br />
Meridian Fitness and Wellness at Hazlet<br />
Medicare GPS Information<br />
Sessions<br />
Meridian Health and Geisinger Health Plan have<br />
partnered to bring Geisinger Gold – a providersponsored<br />
Medicare Advantage product that is<br />
ranked as number six in <strong>the</strong> country – to Medicare<br />
beneficiaries in Monmouth and Ocean counties.<br />
We know that choosing <strong>the</strong> right Medicare plan<br />
can be confusing. So join Meridian and Geisinger<br />
for “Medicare GPS,” an information session to<br />
learn about Medicare, whe<strong>the</strong>r you’re new to <strong>the</strong><br />
program or you’ve been in it for years and would<br />
like to know more.<br />
Please see page 26 for dates, times, and locations.<br />
Call 1-800-846-1583 to register.<br />
Vasser Low-Vision<br />
Awareness Day<br />
Adults ages 40 and older are at <strong>the</strong> greatest risk for eye diseases,<br />
including age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, and<br />
diabetic retinopathy. These diseases are often treatable in <strong>the</strong><br />
early stages. Learn more about vision loss and <strong>the</strong> resources<br />
available. At 11:00 a.m., Surekha Collur, M.D., will present a lecture<br />
on common vision-stealing conditions, followed by glaucoma<br />
and cataract screening from noon to 2:00 p.m. Registration is<br />
required for screenings. Bring your unused eyeglasses to donate<br />
to <strong>the</strong> Lions Club. Light refreshments will be served.<br />
<strong>November</strong> 13, 11:00 a.m. – noon lecture<br />
Noon – 2:00 p.m. screenings<br />
Bayshore Community Hospital<br />
Conference Rooms A and B<br />
Memory Awareness Day<br />
Meridian Health and <strong>the</strong> Alzheimer’s Foundation of America are joining<br />
forces to offer memory screenings during National Memory Screening Day.<br />
If you or a loved one is experiencing increased forgetfulness or trouble<br />
concentrating, performing familiar tasks, or recalling familiar words, you may<br />
benefit from a memory screening. Registration is required.<br />
<strong>November</strong> 13, 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.<br />
Neptune Library<br />
25 Neptune Blvd.<br />
<strong>November</strong> 13, 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.<br />
Stafford Library<br />
129 North Main St.<br />
<strong>November</strong> 13, 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.<br />
Manchester Library<br />
21 Colonial Drive<br />
<strong>November</strong> 14, noon – 3:00 p.m.<br />
Middletown Public Library<br />
55 New Monmouth Road<br />
Meridian HealthViews • <strong>November</strong>/<strong>December</strong> 2012<br />
Call 1-800-DOCTORS or 1-800-560-9990 to register for programs.<br />
21
Community Health Programs • Services • Events • Lectures • Screenings • 1-800-DOCTORS<br />
MERIDIAN CANCER CARE<br />
Knowing Your Family<br />
History Can Save Your Life<br />
Join Meridian’s board certified genetic<br />
counselors as <strong>the</strong>y discuss <strong>the</strong> importance<br />
of knowing your family health history and<br />
how this information can affect your health.<br />
<strong>November</strong> 2, 2:00 – 3:00 p.m.<br />
Family Resource Center at <strong>the</strong> Ocean Club,<br />
Stafford Township<br />
<strong>November</strong> 5, 1:00 – 2:00 p.m.<br />
<strong>Jersey</strong> <strong>Shore</strong> University <strong>Medical</strong> Center<br />
<strong>November</strong> 19, 11:00 a.m. – noon<br />
Meridian Fitness and Wellness Center at Hazlet<br />
Freshstart Smoking<br />
Cessation<br />
This four-session smoking-cessation<br />
program is offered by Meridian Cancer<br />
Care and <strong>the</strong> American Cancer Society.<br />
Participants must come to all four sessions.<br />
<strong>November</strong> 6, <strong>November</strong> 8, <strong>November</strong> 13, and<br />
<strong>November</strong> 15, 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.<br />
Ocean <strong>Medical</strong> Center, Conference Room C<br />
Look Good … Feel Better<br />
Get hair and makeup tips to help you<br />
look and feel better. The American Cancer<br />
Society offers this program to individuals<br />
being treated for cancer.<br />
<strong>November</strong> 12, 1:00 – 3:00 p.m.<br />
Family Resource Center at <strong>the</strong> Ocean Club,<br />
Stafford Township<br />
Stop Smoking with Hypnosis<br />
Hypno<strong>the</strong>rapy helps you eliminate unwanted<br />
habits and develop positive behaviors and<br />
lifestyle changes. The fee is $30.<br />
<strong>November</strong> 14, 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.<br />
Family Resource Center at <strong>the</strong> Ocean Club,<br />
Stafford Township<br />
Can Food Fight Cancer?<br />
Join us for this informative lecture that<br />
teaches you how to choose <strong>the</strong> right<br />
foods. You will learn <strong>the</strong> benefits of<br />
antioxidants and what role vitamins play in<br />
reducing your risk for cancer.<br />
<strong>December</strong> 5, 11:00 a.m. – noon<br />
Meridian Fitness and Wellness Center at Hazlet<br />
Children’s Art Therapy<br />
Meridian Cancer Care offers art <strong>the</strong>rapy<br />
for children ages 4½ to 13 who have<br />
experienced a loss or are dealing with<br />
a chronically or terminally ill loved one.<br />
Registration required. Call 732-530-2382.<br />
MERIDIAN<br />
CARDIOVASCULAR<br />
NETWORK<br />
Hypertension: What You<br />
Need to Know<br />
Join Rama Sambandan, M.D., as he discusses<br />
risk factors, symptoms, and steps you can<br />
take to control your blood pressure.<br />
<strong>November</strong> 1, 11:00 a.m. – noon<br />
Meridian Fitness and Wellness Center at<br />
Hazlet<br />
Heart Disease: ARE YOU<br />
AT RISK?<br />
Join cardiologist Shaddy Younan, M.D., as<br />
he discusses how you can take charge of<br />
your health by making positive lifestyle<br />
changes to reduce your risk for heart<br />
disease and stroke.<br />
<strong>November</strong> 7, 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.<br />
Meridian Fitness and Wellness Center<br />
at Hazlet<br />
Living with Congestive<br />
Heart Failure<br />
Meridian CardioVascular Network experts<br />
will discuss <strong>the</strong> latest research, risk<br />
factors, symptoms, and tips for living with<br />
congestive heart failure.<br />
<strong>November</strong> 8, 9:00 – 10:00 a.m.<br />
<strong>Jersey</strong> <strong>Shore</strong> University <strong>Medical</strong> Center<br />
Brennan Rooms 104/105<br />
With Kim McCourt, N.P.<br />
<strong>December</strong> 12, 9:00 – 10:00 a.m.<br />
Meridian Fitness and Wellness Center<br />
at Hazlet<br />
With cardiologist Parveen Uppal, M.D.<br />
UNDERSTANDING BLOOD CLOTS<br />
IN YOUR LEGS<br />
Join Meridian experts to learn about deep<br />
vein thrombosis, including <strong>the</strong> causes, signs,<br />
symptoms, and latest treatments.<br />
<strong>November</strong> 28, 11:00 a.m. – noon<br />
Family Resource Center at <strong>the</strong> Ocean Club,<br />
Stafford Township<br />
With vascular surgeon Jeffrey Hager, D.O.<br />
<strong>November</strong> 29, 11:00 a.m. – noon<br />
Meridian Fitness and Wellness Center<br />
at Hazlet<br />
With surgeon Michael Kassouf, M.D.<br />
COOKING WITH HEART FOR<br />
THE HOLIDAYS<br />
Move over, calories! We’re sharing <strong>the</strong><br />
secrets for some favorite holiday dishes<br />
with a healthy twist. Food samples will be<br />
provided as a cardiologist and nutritionist<br />
discuss medical, lifestyle, and diet options<br />
that will keep you on track during this<br />
tempting holiday season.<br />
<strong>November</strong> 29, 4:00 – 5:00 p.m.<br />
Ocean <strong>Medical</strong> Center<br />
Conference Rooms A, B, and C<br />
HEART-HEALTHY HOLIDAY TEA<br />
Take a break between <strong>the</strong> holidays and<br />
join Tommy Ng, M.D., to learn how to keep<br />
your heart healthy while enjoying tea and<br />
healthy delights.<br />
<strong>December</strong> 5, 11:00 a.m. – noon<br />
Sea Oaks Country Club, Little Egg Harbor<br />
MERIDIAN NEUROSCIENCE<br />
Warning Signs of Stroke<br />
Strokes are <strong>the</strong> third leading cause of death<br />
and leading cause of disability in America.<br />
Join stroke coordinator Shirley Shook, R.N.,<br />
as she discusses risks, signs, and symptoms<br />
and what to do in <strong>the</strong> event of a stroke.<br />
<strong>November</strong> 20, 11:00 a.m. – noon<br />
Meridian Fitness and Wellness Center<br />
at Hazlet<br />
Solutions to Balance<br />
Problems<br />
Join experts from Meridian Rehabilitation<br />
as <strong>the</strong>y discuss causes and treatment<br />
options for people who experience<br />
dizziness. Free screenings will be available<br />
after <strong>the</strong> lecture. Registration required.<br />
<strong>November</strong> 29, 1:00 – 2:00 p.m.<br />
Meridian Life Rehabilitation,<br />
Point Pleasant Beach<br />
<strong>December</strong> 6, 9:00 – 10:00 a.m.<br />
<strong>Jersey</strong> <strong>Shore</strong> University <strong>Medical</strong> Center<br />
Brennan Rooms 104/105<br />
Express Yourself — Group<br />
Speech Therapy<br />
If you suffered a head injury or stroke and<br />
have already completed speech <strong>the</strong>rapy,<br />
this class may be for you. You can continue<br />
to work on your communication skills in<br />
this program, which is held once a month<br />
for six months. For pricing and registration,<br />
call 732-836-4007.<br />
22<br />
Call 1-800-DOCTORS or 1-800-560-9990 to register for programs.
Parkinson’s Exercise Class<br />
Designed and administered by physical<br />
<strong>the</strong>rapists and exercise specialists, this<br />
program helps people with Parkinson’s<br />
improve <strong>the</strong>ir flexibility, balance, and<br />
strength, enabling <strong>the</strong>m to perform<br />
everyday activities with greater ease.<br />
Call Meridian Life Fitness in Brick at<br />
732-836-4007 for fees and to register.<br />
Car Seat Safety Check<br />
Sponsored by <strong>the</strong> New <strong>Jersey</strong> State Police<br />
and <strong>the</strong> Trauma Center at <strong>Jersey</strong> <strong>Shore</strong><br />
University <strong>Medical</strong> Center. No registration<br />
necessary.<br />
First Tuesday of each month<br />
3:00 – 8:00 p.m.<br />
<strong>Jersey</strong> <strong>Shore</strong> University <strong>Medical</strong> Center<br />
Children’s Counseling<br />
Meridian Behavioral Health offers a variety of<br />
counseling services at both our Neptune and<br />
Shrewsbury locations. We offer age-specific<br />
group <strong>the</strong>rapy, a <strong>the</strong>rapeutic after-school<br />
program for children ages 7 to 13, and traditional<br />
individual and family <strong>the</strong>rapy. Call 732-869-2784,<br />
ext. 2, for registration, schedules, and fees.<br />
MERIDIAN PEDIATRIC<br />
NETWORK<br />
Safe Sitter<br />
Meridian offers babysitting training for<br />
boys and girls ages 11 to 14 that covers basic<br />
child care, CPR, and behavior management.<br />
The fee is $40. Registration is required.<br />
<strong>November</strong> 8, 9:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.<br />
Meridian Fitness and Wellness Center at Hazlet<br />
<strong>November</strong> 9, 9:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.<br />
Red Bank First Aid<br />
151 Spring St.<br />
<strong>November</strong> 10, 9:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.<br />
Family Resource Center at <strong>the</strong> Ocean Club,<br />
Stafford Township<br />
Zumbatomic® Demo Class<br />
Designed for children ages 4 to 7,<br />
Zumbatomic classes are rockin’, highenergy<br />
fitness parties packed with specially<br />
choreographed, kid-friendly routines to<br />
music that <strong>the</strong>y love. Registration required.<br />
<strong>November</strong> 12<br />
Registration: 3:45 p.m.<br />
Demo class: 4:00 – 4:45 p.m.<br />
Meridian Life Fitness, Point Pleasant Beach<br />
Healthy Choices<br />
This program is for girls in grades 7<br />
and 8 and <strong>the</strong>ir moms to learn how to<br />
make healthy life choices and increase<br />
communication during <strong>the</strong>se important<br />
teen years. Dinner and door prizes<br />
included. Registration required.<br />
<strong>November</strong> 14, 5:00 – 9:00 p.m.<br />
Sea Oaks Country Club, Little Egg Harbor<br />
Children and Nutrition<br />
Maintaining a healthy diet is essential<br />
for children. Pediatrician Vanda Bruner,<br />
M.D., will host an informative lecture on<br />
preventing obesity and weight-related<br />
diseases such as diabetes in children.<br />
<strong>December</strong> 19, 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.<br />
Meridian Fitness and Wellness Center at Hazlet<br />
CHILDBIRTH/MATERNITY<br />
CHILDBIRTH EDUCATION SERIES<br />
Meridian Health offers classes and seminars<br />
for first-time and experienced parents,<br />
as well as tours, classes for siblings, and<br />
more! Registration required. Please register<br />
before your third trimester. To learn more<br />
about our fun and informative classes, visit<br />
MeridianMomtourage.com.<br />
STRIKE A POSE: YOGA FOR<br />
MOMS AND MOMS-TO-BE<br />
Classes focus on gentle postures, breathing<br />
techniques, and relaxation to prepare for<br />
childbirth or recover after childbirth. Call<br />
Meridian Life Fitness in Point Pleasant at<br />
732-295-1778 for fees and to register.<br />
Annual Birthday Party<br />
and Baby Fair<br />
Expect more fun! Join Riverview<br />
<strong>Medical</strong> Center for an afternoon<br />
dedicated to <strong>the</strong> health and wellness<br />
of you and your growing family at our<br />
annual Birthday Party and Baby Fair.<br />
Participate in a number of interactive<br />
activities, hear <strong>the</strong> latest news and<br />
tips for mommies at all walks of life,<br />
and get a sneak peek at our beautiful,<br />
recently renovated Childbirth Center.<br />
Light refreshments will be served.<br />
Registration is required.<br />
<strong>November</strong> 10<br />
Noon - 2:00 p.m.<br />
Joan and Robert Rechnitz Conference<br />
and Education Center at<br />
Riverview <strong>Medical</strong> Center<br />
COUNSELING AND<br />
BEHAVIORAL HEALTH<br />
Addiction Recovery Services<br />
For adult family members of addicted<br />
individuals. Call for information.<br />
DIABETES<br />
Comprehensive Diabetes<br />
Management and Education<br />
The focus of diabetes education is on both<br />
<strong>the</strong> person with diabetes and <strong>the</strong> family.<br />
Meridian offers educational and support<br />
programs at all our hospitals on<br />
an individual or group basis for people<br />
with diabetes. In Monmouth County, call<br />
732-530-2555. In Ocean County, call<br />
609-978-3400.<br />
See Diabetes Month events on page 21.<br />
FITNESS<br />
Self-Defense Exercises<br />
Black belt instructor Walter Miller will<br />
teach you how to use balance and leverage<br />
to help defend yourself. Fee is $3 per class.<br />
<strong>November</strong> 1 and 15, and <strong>December</strong> 6<br />
12:30 – 1:30 p.m.<br />
Family Resource Center at <strong>the</strong> Ocean Club,<br />
Stafford Township<br />
Yoga for Golfers<br />
Join Meridian Life Fitness for this demo<br />
class and find out how doing yoga can<br />
improve your flexibility and your golf game.<br />
<strong>December</strong> 1, 8:45 – 9:45 a.m.<br />
Meridian Life Fitness, Point Pleasant Beach<br />
Soothing Strategies for a<br />
Stressful World<br />
Join Meridian Life Fitness for a lecture on<br />
strategies for coping with stress. Learn<br />
relaxation techniques that will help.<br />
<strong>December</strong> 6, 11:00 a.m. – noon<br />
Ocean County Library, Point Pleasant Borough<br />
Gentle Fitness Classes<br />
Learn how exercise can improve your life. A<br />
variety of classes that include a combination<br />
of strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular<br />
exercises are offered. Options include <strong>the</strong><br />
Arthritis Foundation Classes (land, pool, and<br />
Tai Chi), Zumba® Gold, Back Streng<strong>the</strong>ning,<br />
and Balance Training. Call 732-206-8263 for<br />
fees and class locations.<br />
Meridian HealthViews • <strong>November</strong>/<strong>December</strong> 2012<br />
Call 1-800-DOCTORS or 1-800-560-9990 to register for programs.<br />
25 23
Community Health Programs • Services • Events • Lectures • Screenings • 1-800-DOCTORS<br />
NUTRITION<br />
Mindful Eating During <strong>the</strong><br />
Holidays<br />
A Meridian registered dietician will discuss<br />
mindful eating tips and explain how following<br />
your body’s signals can help you lose excess<br />
pounds and <strong>the</strong>n maintain a healthy weight.<br />
<strong>November</strong> 14, 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.<br />
Meridian Fitness and Wellness Center at Hazlet<br />
<strong>November</strong> 28, 3:00 – 4:00 p.m.<br />
Family Resource Center at <strong>the</strong> Ocean Club,<br />
Stafford Township<br />
Weight-Loss Strategies for<br />
<strong>the</strong> Holidays<br />
Join Meridian Life Fitness and learn how to<br />
stay focused on your weight-loss goals.<br />
<strong>November</strong> 19, 11:00 a.m. – noon<br />
Ocean <strong>Medical</strong> Center, Community Room<br />
Nutrition Counseling<br />
Consult a registered dietician to design a food<br />
plan that meets your weight-management<br />
and medical nutrition needs. To register, call<br />
Riverview <strong>Medical</strong> Center at 732-530-2555,<br />
Meridian Life Fitness at 732-206-8263, or<br />
Sou<strong>the</strong>rn Ocean <strong>Medical</strong> Center at 609-978-<br />
3400 for fees and more information.<br />
Weight-Loss and Wellness<br />
Programs<br />
Meridian Life Fitness offers a variety of<br />
weight-loss and wellness programs to suit<br />
your lifestyle, including <strong>the</strong> ability to meet<br />
with a wellness advisor. Call 732-206-8263<br />
for information, fees, and registration.<br />
ORTHOPEDICS AND<br />
SPORTS MEDICINE<br />
My Achy Back<br />
Approximately 80 percent of Americans<br />
will suffer from back pain at some point<br />
in <strong>the</strong>ir lives. Learn what you can do to<br />
prevent it.<br />
<strong>November</strong> 13, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.<br />
Ocean <strong>Medical</strong> Center, Community Room<br />
Living with Knee Pain<br />
Join orthopedic surgeon Michael<br />
Cunningham, M.D., for this informative<br />
lecture as he discusses <strong>the</strong> latest treatment<br />
options for knee pain.<br />
<strong>November</strong> 28, 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.<br />
Meridian Fitness and Wellness Center at Hazlet<br />
This Joint is Jumpin’!<br />
Enjoy an afternoon of your favorite live<br />
jazz and swing music, brunch buffet, dance<br />
instructions from local studio experts,<br />
and more exciting activities that are sure<br />
to keep you moving! Information will be<br />
available about <strong>the</strong> extensive services <strong>the</strong><br />
Total Joint Center at Riverview has to offer.<br />
<strong>December</strong> 1, 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.<br />
Joan and Robert Rechnitz Conference and<br />
Education Center at Riverview <strong>Medical</strong> Center<br />
SCREENINGS<br />
AngioScreen®: What You<br />
Learn Can Save Your Life<br />
This revolutionary new vascular<br />
screening is designed to provide<br />
you with information about your<br />
circulation and risk for heart attack<br />
and stroke. The screening checks<br />
your carotid artery, peak systolic<br />
velocity, abdominal aortic aneurysm,<br />
ankle brachial index, blood pressure<br />
in both arms, body mass index, and<br />
heart rhythm. Participants receive<br />
an instant color report of <strong>the</strong><br />
findings, educational materials, and<br />
consultation with a registered nurse.<br />
Fee: $74.95. Registration required.<br />
<strong>November</strong> 5, 1:30 – 7:00 p.m.<br />
Ocean <strong>Medical</strong> Center<br />
Conference Room B<br />
<strong>November</strong> 15, 9:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.<br />
Riverview <strong>Medical</strong> Center<br />
Joan and Robert Rechnitz Conference<br />
and Education Center<br />
<strong>November</strong> 19, 9:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.<br />
<strong>Jersey</strong> <strong>Shore</strong> University <strong>Medical</strong> Center<br />
Brennan Rooms 104/105<br />
<strong>December</strong> 4, 1:30 – 7:00 p.m.<br />
Meridian Fitness and Wellness Center at<br />
Hazlet, 2nd Floor Conference Room<br />
<strong>December</strong> 7, 9:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.<br />
Family Resource Center at <strong>the</strong> Ocean<br />
Club, Stafford Township<br />
Balance Screenings<br />
Minimize your risk for falls or episodes of<br />
dizziness. Call 732-206-8263 to register.<br />
<strong>November</strong> 15, 3:30 – 4:30 p.m.<br />
Meridian Life Rehab at Ocean <strong>Medical</strong> Center<br />
<strong>December</strong> 13, 2:00 – 4:30 p.m.<br />
Meridian Life Rehabilitation, Point Pleasant<br />
Beach<br />
Blood Pressure Screenings<br />
First and third Wednesday of each month<br />
9:00 – 11:00 a.m.<br />
Family Resource Center at <strong>the</strong> Ocean Club,<br />
Stafford Township<br />
Diabetes Foot Screening<br />
For an appointment, call <strong>the</strong> Wound Center<br />
at Sou<strong>the</strong>rn Ocean <strong>Medical</strong> Center at<br />
609-978-3077.<br />
First Wednesday of each month<br />
Noon – 1:00 p.m.<br />
Ocean County<br />
Cholesterol and Blood<br />
Pressure Screenings for<br />
Low-Income Seniors<br />
Funding provided by Ocean County Board<br />
of Chosen Freeholders for qualified<br />
residents ages 60 and older. Call for dates,<br />
times, and locations.<br />
SENIOR PROGRAMS<br />
Handling Holiday Stress for<br />
Caregivers<br />
Caregivers are already juggling many things.<br />
Take some time for yourself and join us for<br />
lunch. We’ll discuss skills that will help you<br />
better balance family, caregiving, and <strong>the</strong><br />
holidays.<br />
<strong>December</strong> 12, noon – 2:00 p.m.<br />
Family Resource Center at <strong>the</strong> Ocean Club,<br />
Stafford Township<br />
The Power of Aging<br />
Geriatrician William Power, M.D., will discuss<br />
<strong>the</strong> landmark moments in time regarding aging,<br />
<strong>the</strong> strides that have been made, and <strong>the</strong><br />
treatments that can help us age successfully.<br />
<strong>December</strong> 13, 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.<br />
Family Resource Center at <strong>the</strong> Ocean Club,<br />
Stafford Township<br />
AARP Driving Safety<br />
Program<br />
This one-day classroom presentation<br />
can reduce your car insurance costs! The<br />
fee is $12 for AARP members and $14 for<br />
nonmembers. Registration required. Call for<br />
dates, times, and locations.<br />
24<br />
Call 1-800-DOCTORS or 1-800-560-9990 to register for programs.
Forever Fit: Fitness Classes<br />
This fun fitness class is designed for mature<br />
adults. Classes include a combination<br />
of stretching, low-impact aerobics, and<br />
streng<strong>the</strong>ning exercises. Call Meridian Life<br />
Fitness at 732-295-1778 for fees and details.<br />
pressure screenings will also be provided.<br />
<strong>November</strong> 7, 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.<br />
Meridian Fitness and Wellness at Hazlet<br />
<strong>December</strong> 19, 9:00 – 11:00 a.m.<br />
Family Resource Center at <strong>the</strong> Ocean Club,<br />
Stafford Township<br />
Wellness Goals for 2013<br />
Learn <strong>the</strong> steps to achieve your fitness and<br />
weight-loss goals in <strong>the</strong> upcoming year.<br />
<strong>December</strong> 10, 1:00 – 2:00 p.m.<br />
Meridian Life Fitness, Point Pleasant Beach<br />
Mondays, Tuesdays, and Fridays<br />
8:30 – 9:30 a.m.<br />
Stafford Community Center, Manahawkin<br />
Tuesdays, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.<br />
Fridays, 11:00 a.m. – noon<br />
St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, Waretown<br />
Mondays and Fridays, 7:45 – 8:45 a.m.<br />
Barnegat Community Center, Barnegat<br />
WEIGHT-LOSS SURGERY<br />
Weight-Loss Surgery: The Facts<br />
Karl Strom, M.D., medical director of <strong>the</strong><br />
Bariatric Center of Excellence at Sou<strong>the</strong>rn<br />
Ocean <strong>Medical</strong> Center and Bayshore<br />
Community Hospital, and surgeons<br />
Jonathan Reich, M.D., and Silvia Fresco,<br />
M.D., will host educational programs on <strong>the</strong><br />
benefits of weight-loss surgery.<br />
<strong>November</strong> 1, 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.<br />
Bayshore Community Hospital<br />
Ground Floor Conference Room<br />
<strong>November</strong> 13, 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.<br />
<strong>December</strong> 11, 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.<br />
Ramada Inn, 2373 U.S. 9, Toms River<br />
<strong>November</strong> 14, <strong>December</strong> 12, 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.<br />
Sou<strong>the</strong>rn Ocean <strong>Medical</strong> Center<br />
<strong>November</strong> 15, <strong>December</strong> 20, 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.<br />
Meridian Fitness and Wellness Center at Hazlet<br />
<strong>November</strong> 20, <strong>December</strong> 18, 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.<br />
Meridian Life Fitness, Point Pleasant<br />
Options for Weight-Loss<br />
Surgery<br />
Join Seth Kipnis, M.D., for this program on<br />
<strong>the</strong> benefits of weight-loss surgery.<br />
<strong>November</strong> 14, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.<br />
<strong>December</strong> 5, 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.<br />
<strong>Jersey</strong> <strong>Shore</strong> University <strong>Medical</strong> Center<br />
Brennan Rooms 104/105<br />
GENERAL WELLNESS<br />
Home Care Services: Need a<br />
Little Extra Help?<br />
Meridian At Home will be available to answer<br />
questions, provide valuable information, and<br />
demonstrate <strong>the</strong> latest home technologies,<br />
medical equipment, and more. Free blood<br />
TIPS FOR A HEALTHY<br />
THANKSGIVING<br />
Join registered dietician Tanya Werkman<br />
and learn how to enjoy lighter versions of<br />
traditional holiday favorites.<br />
<strong>November</strong> 14, 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.<br />
Meridian Fitness and Wellness Center at Hazlet<br />
BROWN BAG YOUR<br />
MEDICATIONS<br />
Bring in your medications and supplements<br />
and have <strong>the</strong>m reviewed by a registered<br />
pharmacist, who will discuss medication<br />
interactions and taking medications<br />
properly, as well as <strong>the</strong> interaction of<br />
supplements. Registration is required.<br />
<strong>November</strong> 16, 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.<br />
<strong>Jersey</strong> <strong>Shore</strong> University <strong>Medical</strong> Center<br />
Lance Auditorium<br />
ALL ABOUT HERNIAS<br />
Join surgeon Lauren Fischer, M.D., as<br />
she discusses causes, prevention, and<br />
treatment options for hernias.<br />
<strong>November</strong> 27, 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.<br />
Meridian Fitness and Wellness at Hazlet<br />
Varicose Veins: Causes and<br />
Treatment Options<br />
Varicose veins are dilated veins in your leg<br />
that may cause mild to severe pain. Come<br />
hear vascular surgeon Lawrence Mueller,<br />
M.D., explain what varicose veins are, <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
causes, and <strong>the</strong> latest treatment options.<br />
Free screenings will be provided.<br />
<strong>November</strong> 29<br />
Lecture: 9:00 – 10:00 a.m.<br />
Screenings: 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.<br />
<strong>Jersey</strong> <strong>Shore</strong> University <strong>Medical</strong> Center<br />
Brennan Rooms 104/105<br />
<strong>December</strong> 20<br />
Lecture: 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.<br />
Screenings: 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.<br />
<strong>Jersey</strong> <strong>Shore</strong> University <strong>Medical</strong> Center<br />
Brennan Rooms 104/105<br />
GERD: Acid Reflux Disease<br />
Are you suffering from heartburn or acid<br />
reflux? Join David Hyppolite, M.D., and<br />
learn <strong>the</strong> signs and symptoms and <strong>the</strong><br />
latest treatment options for GERD.<br />
<strong>December</strong> 7, 11:00 a.m. – noon<br />
Meridian Fitness and Wellness Center<br />
at Hazlet<br />
MERIDIAN PROGRAMS<br />
AND SERVICES<br />
Booker Health Sciences<br />
Library Home Delivery<br />
The Booker Health Sciences Library at<br />
<strong>Jersey</strong> <strong>Shore</strong> University <strong>Medical</strong> Center<br />
accepts requests from anyone looking to<br />
learn more about a medical topic, disease,<br />
or condition. The library sends a packet<br />
of reliable information to you at no cost.<br />
Contact <strong>the</strong> library by:<br />
Phone: 732-776-4265<br />
Fax: 732-776-4530<br />
Email: jsumclibrary@meridianhealth.com<br />
Clinical Trials<br />
Choosing to participate in a clinical trial is<br />
an important personal decision. To learn<br />
more about current clinical trials available<br />
at Meridian Health, please visit us at<br />
MeridianHealth.com, call 732-776-2953,<br />
or email us at clinicaltrials@<br />
meridianhealth.com.<br />
CPR Training<br />
All Meridian hospitals are American Heart<br />
Association CPR training centers. Call for<br />
dates, times, locations, and classes offered.<br />
Infectious Disease Clinic<br />
Exams, testing, and treatment of sexually<br />
transmitted and o<strong>the</strong>r infectious diseases<br />
are available at this clinic, located at <strong>Jersey</strong><br />
<strong>Shore</strong> University <strong>Medical</strong> Center. Call<br />
732-774-0151 to schedule a free,<br />
confidential appointment.<br />
Support Groups<br />
Meridian offers support groups for<br />
bereavement; caregivers; diabetes; anorexia<br />
and bulimia; breast, lung, prostate, thyroid,<br />
and o<strong>the</strong>r cancers; Alzheimer’s disease;<br />
stroke; Parkinson’s disease; sleep disorders;<br />
celiac disease; Mended Hearts; weight loss;<br />
and more. Call for more information, dates,<br />
and times.<br />
Meridian HealthViews • <strong>November</strong>/<strong>December</strong> 2012<br />
Call 1-800-DOCTORS or 1-800-560-9990 to register for programs.<br />
25
MEDICARE GPS INFORMATION SESSIONS<br />
Meridian Health and Geisinger Health Plan have partnered to bring Geisinger Gold – a provider-sponsored Medicare Advantage<br />
product that is ranked as number six in <strong>the</strong> country – to Medicare beneficiaries in Monmouth and Ocean counties.<br />
Seniors will now have access to a high-quality, cost-effective option for Medicare coverage that’s not currently available in this region,<br />
including better management of chronic conditions, better health care outcomes, and better access to covered services.<br />
You already know <strong>the</strong> doctors and nurses and trust <strong>the</strong> teams at Meridian Health and <strong>the</strong>ir commitment to high-quality care<br />
right in your community. Now, you have more ways to receive <strong>the</strong> right care at <strong>the</strong> right time from <strong>the</strong> right place.<br />
Join us for an upcoming Medicare GPS information session in your community.<br />
Sessions are offered at 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. on each date except where indicated.<br />
Community Health Programs • Services • Events • Lectures • Screenings • 1-800-DOCTORS<br />
Ocean County<br />
<strong>November</strong> 1:<br />
<strong>November</strong> 7:<br />
<strong>November</strong> 9:<br />
<strong>November</strong> 13:<br />
<strong>November</strong> 14:<br />
<strong>November</strong> 16:<br />
<strong>November</strong> 19:<br />
<strong>November</strong> 20:<br />
<strong>November</strong> 26:<br />
<strong>November</strong> 30:<br />
<strong>December</strong> 4:<br />
<strong>December</strong> 5:<br />
Whiting Retail Office, 550 Route 530, Whiting, NJ<br />
10:00 a.m. only, Family Resource Center at The Ocean Club Fitness Center,<br />
700 Route 9 South, Stafford Township, NJ<br />
Clarion Hotel and Conference Center, 815 Route 37 West, Toms River, NJ<br />
Whiting Retail Office, 550 Route 530, Whiting, NJ<br />
Family Resource Center at The Ocean Club Fitness Center, 700 Route 9 South,<br />
Stafford Township, NJ<br />
Clarion Hotel and Conference Center, 815 Route 37 West, Toms River, NJ<br />
Whiting Retail Office, 550 Route 530, Whiting, NJ<br />
Family Resource Center at The Ocean Club Fitness Center, 700 Route 9 South,<br />
Stafford Township, NJ<br />
Whiting Retail Office, 550 Route 530, Whiting, NJ<br />
(Both sessions are GPS, not enrollment meetings.)<br />
Clarion Hotel and Conference Center, 815 Route 37 West, Toms River, NJ<br />
Whiting Retail Office, 550 Route 530, Whiting, NJ<br />
10:00 a.m. only, Family Resource Center at The Ocean Club Fitness Center,<br />
700 Route 9 South, Stafford Township, NJ<br />
Monmouth County<br />
<strong>November</strong> 2: Meridian Fitness and Wellness, 1420 Highway 36, Hazlet, NJ<br />
<strong>November</strong> 8: Radisson Hotel, 50 Gibson Place, Freehold, NJ<br />
<strong>November</strong> 9: Meridian Fitness and Wellness, 1420 Highway 36, Hazlet, NJ<br />
<strong>November</strong> 13: Courtyard by Marriott, 1302 Campus Parkway, Wall Township, NJ<br />
<strong>November</strong> 16: Meridian Fitness and Wellness, 1420 Highway 36, Hazlet, NJ<br />
(Both sessions are GPS, not enrollment meetings.)<br />
<strong>November</strong> 19: Radisson Hotel, 50 Gibson Place, Freehold, NJ<br />
<strong>November</strong> 20: Courtyard by Marriott, 1302 Campus Parkway, Wall Township, NJ<br />
<strong>November</strong> 27: Courtyard by Marriott, 1302 Campus Parkway, Wall Township, NJ<br />
<strong>December</strong> 3: Courtyard by Marriott, 1302 Campus Parkway, Wall Township, NJ<br />
<strong>December</strong> 5: Meridian Fitness and Wellness, 1420 Highway 36, Hazlet, NJ<br />
Call 1-800-846-1583 to register.<br />
26 Call 1-800-DOCTORS or 1-800-560-9990 to register for programs.
Take a Closer Look<br />
at Your Eye Health<br />
Diseases such as glaucoma, cataracts, diabetic eye disease, and<br />
age-related macular degeneration can rob you of your sight.<br />
But you may not notice changes in your vision right away.<br />
Thankfully, <strong>the</strong>re are ways to detect <strong>the</strong>se diseases early, when <strong>the</strong>y’re<br />
most treatable.<br />
Eye Exam May See Problems Before You Do<br />
“A dilated eye exam — in which <strong>the</strong> pupil is widened with drops to<br />
allow a closer look at <strong>the</strong> eye — can help your eye doctor find disease<br />
at an early stage,” says Walter Kahn, M.D., FACS, ophthalmologist with<br />
Riverview <strong>Medical</strong> Center. If you’re younger than age 60, don’t have<br />
any special risk factors, and aren’t having vision problems, see <strong>the</strong> eye<br />
doctor for a thorough exam about every two to four years.<br />
If you are age 60 or older, or are at risk for any of <strong>the</strong>se causes of<br />
blindness, you may need more frequent exams:<br />
• Glaucoma can strike anyone, but African-Americans older than<br />
40, anyone older than 60, and people with a family history of <strong>the</strong><br />
disease are most at risk. They should get <strong>the</strong> exam at least once<br />
every two years.<br />
• Diabetic eye disease can affect people with diabetes at any age.<br />
Go for an exam once every year.<br />
• Age-related macular degeneration is more common in people who<br />
are older than 60. However, it can occur at any age. Women are at<br />
higher risk than men, as are those who are Caucasian, are obese,<br />
smoke, or have a family history of <strong>the</strong> disease. Anyone older than<br />
60 should have <strong>the</strong> exam every two years.<br />
Healthy Lifestyle, Healthy Eyes<br />
“In general, <strong>the</strong> healthier you are, <strong>the</strong> greater your odds of avoiding<br />
eye problems,” says Dr. Kahn. These strategies can help:<br />
• Eat foods rich in vitamins A, C, and E. Examples include oranges and<br />
strawberries (vitamin C), almonds (vitamin E), and carrots (vitamin A).<br />
• Exercise regularly.<br />
• Keep your blood pressure under control.<br />
• Avoid smoking.<br />
• Wear protective eyewear when working with strong chemicals such<br />
as oven cleaner, operating motorized equipment, or playing sports<br />
such as racquetball or basketball.<br />
• Protect your eyes from ultraviolet (UV) light by wearing sunglasses<br />
and a wide-brimmed hat when in <strong>the</strong> sun. Choose sunglasses that<br />
block at least 99 percent of UV rays.<br />
See More Clearly<br />
Walter J. Kahn, M.D., FACS<br />
Board certified in Ophthalmology<br />
Red Bank • 732-741-0858<br />
The Latest in LASIK<br />
Technology<br />
The Vision Correction Center<br />
at Riverview <strong>Medical</strong> Center is<br />
<strong>the</strong> only hospital in Monmouth<br />
and Ocean counties to offer <strong>the</strong><br />
latest 100 percent blade-free<br />
LASIK technology available,<br />
<strong>the</strong> IntraLase iFS (femtosecond)<br />
laser. The iFS laser is a highly<br />
sophisticated way to prepare <strong>the</strong><br />
eye for LASIK, without a blade<br />
ever touching it.<br />
“The LASIK procedure has never<br />
been safer or more precise,<br />
thanks to <strong>the</strong> blade-free IntraLase<br />
method,” says Walter Kahn,<br />
M.D., FACS, ophthalmologist<br />
with Riverview <strong>Medical</strong> Center.<br />
“I’m proud to offer our patients<br />
this advantage close to home at<br />
Riverview.”<br />
Considering LASIK? Learn more about <strong>the</strong> latest techniques offered at Riverview <strong>Medical</strong> Center.<br />
Call <strong>the</strong> Vision Correction Center at 732-530-2295 or visit Riverview<strong>Medical</strong>Center.com.<br />
Healthy Highlights<br />
Meridian HealthViews • <strong>November</strong>/<strong>December</strong> 2012<br />
27
Solve <strong>the</strong> Puzzle of Your Pills<br />
Meridian Health<br />
MeridianHealth.com • 1-800-DOCTORS<br />
Are you mystified by your<br />
medicine cabinet?<br />
Almost half of all Americans take at<br />
least one prescription drug. While<br />
<strong>the</strong>se medications make our lives<br />
healthier and easier, <strong>the</strong>y can also<br />
make it more complicated. Which pill<br />
should you take with food? Which one<br />
can’t you have with juice? How can you<br />
keep everything straight? Meridian’s<br />
experts help you solve <strong>the</strong> puzzle.<br />
Take an Interest in<br />
Interactions<br />
Taking more than one medicine —<br />
whe<strong>the</strong>r it’s a prescription drug, an<br />
over-<strong>the</strong>-counter remedy such as<br />
cough syrup, or a vitamin or herbal<br />
supplement — raises your risk for an<br />
interaction. “This occurs when one<br />
medication affects how well ano<strong>the</strong>r<br />
works, or when <strong>the</strong> combination causes<br />
side effects,” explains Susan Rodriguez-<br />
Bostock, M.D., of Ocean <strong>Medical</strong><br />
Center. Some interactions are serious,<br />
she notes. For example:<br />
• Aspirin helps keep blood from<br />
clotting, but taking aspirin while<br />
you’re on a blood thinner can lead<br />
to excessive bleeding<br />
• Decongestants can raise your blood<br />
pressure to dangerous levels if you<br />
also take blood pressure medication.<br />
• The herb ginkgo can cause<br />
bleeding, and ginseng may alter<br />
<strong>the</strong> amount of time it takes for<br />
bleeding to stop, which could lead<br />
to blood clotting if you’re taking a<br />
blood thinner.<br />
• Supplements, such as<br />
multivitamins that have iron, may<br />
keep tetracycline, a common<br />
antibiotic, from working.<br />
Doris MacDonald, age 88, is an avid seamstress<br />
who also makes jewelry. She lives at Bella Terra,<br />
a retirement community in Jackson. Doris uses<br />
Meridian At Home’s medication management<br />
program, MediSuite, to manage her medications so<br />
she can stay healthy and remain independent.<br />
28
You can help prevent interactions<br />
by reading all your medication labels.<br />
“Remember to tell your doctor about<br />
everything you take as well,” says<br />
Dr. Rodriguez-Bostock. “He or she<br />
will rely on this information when<br />
deciding what type of medication to<br />
prescribe for you.”<br />
An Rx for Organization<br />
An easy way to keep track of all<br />
your medications is to draw up<br />
a schedule. Dalia Hanna, M.D., of<br />
Bayshore Community Hospital,<br />
recommends <strong>the</strong>se tips:<br />
• Write it down. For each medicine,<br />
list <strong>the</strong> name, <strong>the</strong> dose, how often<br />
you take it, and <strong>the</strong> time of day.<br />
Also write down why you take<br />
it, such as for “blood pressure,”<br />
“breathing,” or “cholesterol.”<br />
Include any over-<strong>the</strong>-counter<br />
medicines, vitamins, and herbal<br />
medicines you take regularly, as<br />
well as medication you take as<br />
needed.<br />
• Share your schedule with a family<br />
member or friend. “Your loved one<br />
can help you remember to take<br />
your medicines on a daily basis or<br />
while traveling,” says Dr. Hanna.<br />
“Making sure someone else has<br />
your schedule is also important<br />
in case a health emergency leaves<br />
you unable to communicate.”<br />
• Post it. Keep your schedule on <strong>the</strong><br />
refrigerator or ano<strong>the</strong>r place where<br />
you’ll see it every day.<br />
• Keep it current. Whenever your<br />
medicines change, update <strong>the</strong> list<br />
on your schedule and replace all<br />
outdated lists.<br />
• Give a copy to each doctor you<br />
see. Your doctors need to know<br />
about all your medicines to make<br />
sure <strong>the</strong>y can be safely taken<br />
toge<strong>the</strong>r.<br />
• If you are admitted to <strong>the</strong> hospital<br />
or need to call 911, bring a copy<br />
with you. When you’re ready to go<br />
home, have a nurse or pharmacist<br />
review your schedule and add any<br />
new medicines.<br />
Be Vigilant After a<br />
Hospital Visit<br />
Keeping up with new prescriptions<br />
after a hospitalization is especially<br />
difficult. But taking steps before and<br />
after leaving <strong>the</strong> hospital can help<br />
you protect yourself.<br />
“Take an active part in your<br />
medical care. Find out as much as<br />
possible about each medication<br />
before taking it,” advises Angelo<br />
Chinnici, M.D., of <strong>Jersey</strong> <strong>Shore</strong><br />
University <strong>Medical</strong> Center. He<br />
suggests asking <strong>the</strong>se questions of<br />
doctors and nurses at <strong>the</strong> hospital,<br />
your primary care doctor, or your<br />
pharmacist:<br />
• What is this medication for?<br />
• Should I avoid certain prescription<br />
and over-<strong>the</strong>-counter drugs, foods,<br />
supplements, and activities while<br />
taking this medicine?<br />
• What side effects might occur?<br />
What should I do if I experience<br />
<strong>the</strong>m? Can I do anything to lower<br />
my risk for <strong>the</strong>m?<br />
• What should I do if I forget a dose?<br />
• Should I take this medication<br />
before, during, or after meals?<br />
Make sure you understand <strong>the</strong><br />
answers and track <strong>the</strong> information<br />
in your scheduling chart. “Don’t be<br />
afraid to ask your doctor questions.<br />
He or she knows you best,” adds<br />
Dr. Chinnici.<br />
Save Money with Generics<br />
If you see a lot of medicines in<br />
your scheduling chart, you may<br />
start seeing something else: dollar<br />
signs. In many cases, generic drugs<br />
can help you save money on your<br />
medications.<br />
“Generic drugs are safe and<br />
effective alternatives to brand-name<br />
drugs,” notes William Power Jr., M.D.,<br />
Making Sense of Your Medications<br />
Dalia N. Hanna, M.D.<br />
Board certified in Family Medicine<br />
Matawan • 732-566-2363<br />
William K. Power Jr., M.D.<br />
Board certified in Internal<br />
Medicine and Geriatric Medicine<br />
Forked River • 609-693-9240<br />
Susan Rodriguez-Bostock, M.D.<br />
Board certified in Family Medicine<br />
Jackson • 732-367-0166<br />
Angelo Chinnici, M.D.<br />
Internal Medicine<br />
Asbury Park • 732-775-7978<br />
of Sou<strong>the</strong>rn Ocean <strong>Medical</strong> Center.<br />
“They are identical to <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
brand-name counterparts in terms<br />
of active ingredients, dosage, and<br />
quality.” And according to <strong>the</strong> U.S.<br />
Food and Drug Administration, <strong>the</strong>y<br />
can be 30 percent to 80 percent<br />
cheaper than <strong>the</strong> brand version.<br />
Why are generics less expensive?<br />
“When a drug is first made, it’s<br />
covered by a patent, which protects<br />
<strong>the</strong> company that developed it,” says<br />
Dr. Power. “When <strong>the</strong> patent expires,<br />
however, o<strong>the</strong>r companies can<br />
start making and selling that drug,<br />
without <strong>the</strong> expense of research and<br />
development. Then, <strong>the</strong>y pass those<br />
savings on to <strong>the</strong> consumer.” •<br />
At WellnessCenter.MeridianHealth.com, you’ll find a wealth<br />
of online resources to help you manage your medications. Click on<br />
“Library,” <strong>the</strong>n “Drug Reference,” for a comprehensive listing of drugs and<br />
a drug interaction checker.<br />
Meridian HealthViews • <strong>November</strong>/<strong>December</strong> 2012<br />
29
Become our next featured community<br />
member. See details below.<br />
My<br />
health views on …<br />
Forked River resident Dawn McIntyre,<br />
R.N., is a self-described couch potato<br />
who has worked hard to find ways to<br />
enjoy exercising. Here’s how <strong>the</strong><br />
52-year-old does it.<br />
… making every move count.<br />
I used to see exercise as black or white: Ei<strong>the</strong>r I went<br />
to <strong>the</strong> gym or I didn’t. Now I look for ways to be<br />
active throughout <strong>the</strong> day whe<strong>the</strong>r or not I work out.<br />
I take <strong>the</strong> stairs instead of <strong>the</strong> elevator. I walk my dog<br />
or clean <strong>the</strong> floors. It all adds up!<br />
… sticking with it.<br />
I became friends with some of <strong>the</strong> regulars at <strong>the</strong><br />
gym. One is an aerobics instructor who asked me to<br />
come to her class. The first couple of times I went,<br />
I’d go left while <strong>the</strong> rest of <strong>the</strong> class went right. But I<br />
kept moving! Now I look forward to seeing my friends<br />
when I go to <strong>the</strong> gym, which helps motivate me to go.<br />
… de-stressing.<br />
At least once a week I take a yoga/Pilates class. I’ve<br />
learned so much about connecting with my breath,<br />
and it has helped me to be so much calmer. Whenever<br />
I feel stressed, I just take some deep breaths and<br />
release it.<br />
Dawn McIntyre enjoys some outdoor exercise on <strong>the</strong> boardwalk in Spring Lake. She<br />
looks for ways to be active throughout <strong>the</strong> day, whe<strong>the</strong>r or not she fits in a workout.<br />
MeridianHealth.com • 1-800-DOCTORS<br />
Picture This:<br />
Your Photo and Story in Meridian HealthViews!<br />
Are you part of a workout team? Do you exercise or play<br />
a sport with a friend, sibling, neighbor, or coworker? We<br />
want to hear about it! Email your story to healthviews@<br />
meridianhealth.com or post it at www.facebook.com/<br />
MeridianHealthNJ. You could be featured in an upcoming<br />
issue! As a thank-you, everyone who submits a story for<br />
consideration will receive a FREE cookbook full of healthy<br />
recipes!<br />
30
Unstoppable.<br />
With his health at a crossroad, Joseph kept going.<br />
A bricklayer for 55 years, Howell resident Joseph Meaghan always found his life’s<br />
work liberating. That was until a partially clogged artery threatened his independence<br />
and his livelihood. Joseph turned to <strong>the</strong> experts of Meridian CardioVascular Network<br />
with <strong>the</strong> most complete cardiac care in <strong>the</strong> region. There, his cardiovascular team<br />
acted quickly and used a stent to open his artery and restore blood flow to his heart.<br />
Today, Joseph has regained his balance, his breath, and his coveted spot on <strong>the</strong> crew.<br />
The words “slow down” never did apply to Joseph Meaghan. To put it simply,<br />
he never quits.<br />
To learn more about Joseph’s relentless heart,<br />
visit MeridianCardioVascularNetwork.com.<br />
For a physician, call 1-800-DOCTORS.<br />
Our philosophy:<br />
It’s not just <strong>the</strong><br />
ability to do a<br />
single thing well,<br />
but <strong>the</strong> unique<br />
ability to do<br />
everything better.<br />
Research<br />
& Education<br />
Prevention<br />
& Wellness<br />
Diagnosis<br />
Treatment<br />
Recovery<br />
Taking Care of<br />
New <strong>Jersey</strong><br />
Meridian CardioVascular Network<br />
<strong>Jersey</strong> <strong>Shore</strong> University <strong>Medical</strong> Center Meridian Network of Physicians<br />
Ocean <strong>Medical</strong> Center<br />
Meridian At Home<br />
Riverview <strong>Medical</strong> Center<br />
Meridian Rehabilitation Centers<br />
K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital<br />
Meridian Life Fitness Centers<br />
Sou<strong>the</strong>rn Ocean <strong>Medical</strong> Center<br />
Home<br />
© Meridian Health 2012
1945 Route 33<br />
Neptune, NJ 07753<br />
Steven G. Littleson, FACHE<br />
President<br />
Non-Profit Org.<br />
U.S. Postage<br />
PAID<br />
Meridian<br />
Health<br />
Inside!<br />
You’re invited<br />
to our diabetes<br />
awareness events<br />
page 21<br />
Visit us on <strong>the</strong> Web at <strong>Jersey</strong><strong>Shore</strong>University<strong>Medical</strong>Center.com.<br />
1945 Route 33<br />
Neptune, NJ 07753<br />
Steven G. Littleson, FACHE<br />
President<br />
425 Jack Martin Blvd.<br />
Brick, NJ 08724<br />
Dean Q. Lin, MHA, MBA, FACHE<br />
President<br />
Boogie boarder. Voice coach. Mom. Lynn Truex enjoys<br />
life to its fullest. That’s why, when faced with ovarian<br />
cancer, she turned to <strong>the</strong> Perricone Center for<br />
Gynecologic Oncology at <strong>Jersey</strong> <strong>Shore</strong> University<br />
<strong>Medical</strong> Center, part of Meridian Cancer Care.<br />
At <strong>Jersey</strong> <strong>Shore</strong>, Lynn found <strong>the</strong> most comprehensive<br />
gynecologic care in <strong>the</strong> region… including <strong>the</strong> latest<br />
advancements in diagnostics, surgery, chemo<strong>the</strong>rapy<br />
and radiation. She also found an amazing team that<br />
helped her dive back into life.<br />
One Riverview Plaza<br />
Red Bank, NJ 07701<br />
Timothy J. Hogan, FACHE<br />
Regional President<br />
To learn more about how we helped Lynn, visit<br />
MeridianCancerCareNJ.com. To find a physician<br />
who will offer you <strong>the</strong> same expert care,<br />
call 1-800-DOCTORS.<br />
727 North Beers Street<br />
Holmdel, NJ 07733<br />
Timothy J. Hogan, FACHE<br />
Regional President<br />
Today, Lynn isn’t thinking about <strong>the</strong> advanced<br />
technology we used to fight her ovarian cancer.<br />
She’s just thinking it’s time to boogie.<br />
1140 Route 72 West<br />
Manahawkin, NJ 08050<br />
Joe Coyle<br />
President<br />
Taking Care of<br />
New <strong>Jersey</strong><br />
Meridian Cancer Care<br />
- <strong>Jersey</strong> <strong>Shore</strong> University <strong>Medical</strong> Center<br />
- Ocean <strong>Medical</strong> Center<br />
- Riverview <strong>Medical</strong> Center<br />
- Sou<strong>the</strong>rn Ocean <strong>Medical</strong> Center<br />
- Meridian Partner Companies<br />
- Meridian Team of Physicians<br />
Printed on Recyclable Paper<br />
6116C