YOUR GUIDE TO LIVING WELL WINTER 2020
HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS Cardiac Catheterization Saves Active Retiree’s Life Page 4
CLASSES & EVENTS PAGE 7
NEWS BRIEF
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12 Dan Cochran, president of Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center (right), takes time to acknowledge nurse Lorraine Sparrow and respiratory therapist Larry Zimmer during the hospital’s 40th anniversary celebration in December. Both have been with the hospital since it opened in 1979. (Not pictured: unit coordinator Carleen Anderson, who has also been at Shady Grove for 40 years.)
SHADY GROVE MEDICAL CENTER CELEBRATES 40 YEARS OF CARE
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TABLE OF CONTENTS 3
High Tech With a Big Heart
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H ome Is Where the Heart Is
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Know Your Heart Numbers
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Living Healthy
A Cooking Gadget That Works for Your Diet
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Staying in Shape in the Winter
Maryland’s First Hospital-Based Milk Depot 12
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Help Loved Ones Age at Home
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Managing Mental Illness One Day at a Time
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E xpanding Access to Care
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G olfers Hit the Links to
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in Prince George’s
Support Brain and Spine Care
WINTER 2020
On Dec. 2, employees and friends of Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center gathered for a 40th birthday celebration in the main lobby. President Dan Cochran led festivities to mark the date in 1979 when Shady Grove began serving the community around its Rockville, Maryland, campus. “What makes Shady Grove the most special is the people. I think the people are really driven by the Mission that we have as an organization,” Cochran said during the celebration, which included displays of photos and memorabilia. The hospital recognized three employees who have been part of its team since opening day: respiratory therapist Larry Zimmer, unit support coordinator Carleen Anderson, and registered nurse Lorraine Sparrow. Sparrow recalled being able to walk outside of the emergency room and see dirt roads and cornfields in those first days. “It was just so quiet and peaceful.” Montgomery County’s population and the residential development around the hospital has boomed since then, along with the number of patients Shady Grove served. The hospital treated just over 14,000 emergency room cases in its first year. Last year, it saw more than 90,000.
To meet that growth, Shady Grove has expanded from its original four-story brick building over the years. In 2009, the hospital added a tower with private rooms and more operating rooms. In 2013, it opened the Shady Grove Adventist Aquilino Cancer Center to offer whole-person cancer care in a dedicated building next to the hospital. A few miles north, Shady Grove’s Germantown Emergency Center opened in 2006 and is one of only three freestanding emergency rooms in Maryland. The hospital has garnered national recognition for many of its high-quality services over the years. Cochran, who joined Shady Grove in 2011 and became president in August, is enthusiastic about the future. He plans to continue the growth and modernization of the hospital with a new intensive care unit, upgrades for the Emergency Department and private patient rooms. These new facilities would complement the hospital’s recently expanded services, such as advanced neurosurgery and inpatient and outpatient mental health. Cochran is enthusiastic about the next 40 years and beyond for Shady Grove. “I am excited not only about adding facilities and services, but also developing new opportunities for our employees,” he said. “Engaging people fully in our Mission of extending God’s care is key.”
To learn more about the medical center, visit AHCYou.com/W20ShadyGrove
HEART CARE
HIGH TECH with A Big Heart
Peter Pfisterer’s wife, Lore (seated), and his daughter, Linda, thank Adventist HealthCare for helping their loved one recover from a serious heart condition.
Minimally Invasive Heart Procedure Gives a Family Their Father Back HORTLY after coming down with pneumonia last April, Peter Pfisterer of Gaithersburg learned he had congestive heart failure, a condition that causes blood not to pump properly throughout the body. On June 12, the 83-yearold nearly died from the condition, but was resuscitated at Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center’s Emergency department. In Shady Grove’s Intensive Care Unit, Peter’s cardiologist told Peter’s family that he knew a doctor he was certain could save Peter’s life – Fayaz Shawl, MD, an interventional cardiologist at Adventist HealthCare White Oak Medical Center. Peter had severe aortic stenosis, a condition that causes a narrowing of the aorta, the main valve that carries blood from the heart to other parts of the body. Because of Peter’s age and his critical condition, traditional open-heart surgery to repair the valve was too risky. “When Dr. Shawl got to the ICU to see my dad, we knew Dad needed a miracle,” said Linda Gossweiler, Peter’s daughter. “But Dr. Shawl inspired confidence as soon as he arrived that he could help my father.” Dr. Shawl explained that Peter needed a minimally invasive heart procedure called a transcatheter valve replacement, or TAVR. This would allow Dr. Shawl to place a new heart valve through a small incision in the groin – instead of having to perform openheart surgery. But first, he’d have to stabilize Peter and perform a valvuloplasty to stretch the valve. Peter arrived at White Oak Medical Center on Sept. 12 to have Dr. Shawl perform his TAVR procedure – the first at the new hospital, which had just moved from Takoma Park two weeks earlier. “When I was in the operating room [cath lab], I was astounded. It was just amazing – phenomenal,” Peter said. “It was so hightech; they have everything you need and there were lots of people
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taking care of me. It made me feel very confident that they could take care of me.” But it wasn’t just the state-of-the-art hospital that impressed Peter and his family. “Everyone we touched there was so kind,” Linda said. “The staff even remembered us from my dad’s earlier treatment at Washington Adventist Hospital [which was the predecessor to White Oak Medical Center].” Just weeks later, Linda and Peter’s wife, Lore, said they are amazed by Peter’s recovery – going from being on the ventilator in the ICU to enjoying dinner out with his family. Lore had one important message for Dr. Shawl and the White Oak Medical Center heart care team: “Thank you for giving me my husband back.”
To learn if you or a loved one can benefit from our comprehensive heart-care services, visit AHCYou.com/W20Heart. AHCYOU.COM/W20
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HEART CARE
Larry and Barbara Eldridge cherish the moments at home following his lifesaving heart procedure at Adventist HealthCare White Oak Medical Center.
STAY HEART AWARE Call 911 and get medical help right away if you have: • Chest pain, pressure or a strange feeling in the chest that typically lasts longer than 20 minutes and may go away and come back • Fast or irregular heartbeat • Lightheadedness or sudden weakness • Nausea or vomiting • Nervousness • Pain, pressure or a strange feeling in the back, neck, jaw, upper belly or in one or both shoulders or arms • Shortness of breath • Sweating
To learn if you or a loved one can benefit from our heart-care services, visit AHCYou.com/W20Heart.
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WINTER 2020
HEART CARE
Home Is Where the ARRY and Barbara Eldridge are self-described foodies. Since retiring a few years ago, Larry has become the “everyday” cook – preparing nourishing breakfasts, savory dinners and the most delicious coconut macaroons Barbara says she has ever tasted. When they are not in the kitchen, the Olney, Maryland, couple lead an active life. Family is at the heart of what brings them joy. Their four children and two grandchildren regularly fill their home with laughter. And after last winter, the Eldridges are especially grateful for the everyday moments they spend together. Last February, their lives felt anything but ordinary when Larry suddenly felt a crushing chest pain that radiated to both arms. He was rushed to Adventist HealthCare Washington Adventist Hospital (now Adventist HealthCare White Oak Medical Center in Silver Spring). “It was the worst pain I have ever had in my life,” recalled Larry, 70. “I remember looking out the ambulance window and praying I’d survive the trip.”
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Heart Is
and individualized exercise instruction, education programs and nutrition counseling to help prevent progression of his heart disease. To express their gratitude, the Eldridges donated to both White Oak Medical Center and the Center for Fitness and Health. “It was important to us that we honor the physicians and staff who saved my life and helped me make lifestyle changes to stay healthy,” Larry said. “I count my blessings every day.”
LIFESAVING RESPONSE Cardiologist Gregory Fisher, MD, and an expert emergency heart-care team were waiting for Larry when he arrived. Larry had a complete blockage in an artery that supplies blood to two-thirds of the heart, a potentially fatal condition. Dr. Fisher rushed Larry to the nationally recognized heart catherization lab, cleared the artery and inserted a stent, saving Larry’s life. “When Dr. Fisher explained which artery it was, but that Larry had survived, I was in shock,” Barbara said. “Things could have ended very differently if the physicians, nurses and staff hadn’t been so well-prepared and skilled at what they do.” Barbara and Larry emphasized that the caregivers’ professionalism and compassion comforted them during some of the scariest moments of their lives. “All of the nurses, physicians and staff members were so knowledgeable and caring, which put our minds at ease,” Barbara said. “It was also clear that everybody had the same information and showed a tremendous amount of respect for each other, which is so crucial.” Larry and Barbara have worked in healthcare, hospital administration and healthcare quality improvement for a combined 88 years. “We know quality healthcare when we see it,” Barbara added. “We are forever grateful to Adventist HealthCare’s remarkable team of caregivers.”
Natalia Umana, RN, with Shady Grove Medical Center, monitors Larry Eldridge as he works out at the hospital’s Center for Fitness and Health.
A NEW WAY TO LIVE As part of his recovery, Larry participated in cardiac rehabilitation at the Center for Fitness and Health at Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center in Rockville. Through its comprehensive three-month program, Larry participated in medically monitored
Want to support lifesaving cardiac care? Learn how at AHCYou.com/W20Give.
AHCYOU.COM/W20
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HEART CARE
Know Your Heart Numbers
YOUR heart is crucial to your overall health – and the first step to maintaining your heart health is knowing your numbers. Naga Pannala, MD, cardiologist with Adventist HealthCare, shares what numbers to look for and what your goal range should be.
BLOOD PRESSURE Blood pressure can be affected by age, medications and overall health. However, normal blood pressure is less than 120/80. Anything over 130/80 is considered elevated.
120/80
CHOLESTEROL Your LDL (or bad cholesterol) may indicate a buildup of plaque, which narrows your arteries and is a leading cause of heart attacks. Keeping your LDL less than 100 mg/dL is a good goal for heart health.
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A1C A1C is a measure of your blood glucose and diabetes, a risk factor for heart disease. To lower your risk of developing diabetes, aim to keep your A1C levels below 5.7%.
5.7
BMI Your body mass index (BMI) target should be between 18.5 and 25 kg/m2. But always talk with your doctor to determine what your ideal weight, BMI and waist circumference should be.
18.5-25
Always talk with your doctor about your numbers and how you can lower your risk for heart disease. Learn your risk for heart disease at AHCYou.com/W20HeartRisk.
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WINTER 2020
REGISTRATION Online registration and payment options are available for most programs. Visit AHCYou.com/W20Calendar or call 877-684-1511 for information or to register.
LIVING healthy Adventist HealthCare offers classes, events and activities to support a healthy body, mind and spirit. Check out our full listing of classes and events at AHCYou.com/W20Calendar.
CLASS LOCATIONS Adventist HealthCare offers classes at numerous locations. Visit AHCYou.com/W20Calendar for additional class/event locations. SGMC Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center 9901 Medical Center Drive, Rockville
ACC Aquilino Cancer Center 9905 Medical Center Drive, Rockville
WOMC Adventist HealthCare White Oak Medical Center 11890 Healing Way, Silver Spring
AHC Adventist HealthCare 820 W. Diamond Ave., Gaithersburg*
Rehab Adventist HealthCare Rehabilitation 9909 Medical Center Drive, Rockville
CPD Adventist HealthCare Center for Professional Development 14915 Broschart Road, Suite 100, Rockville* *FREE parking
HEART HEALTH FREE Blood Pressure Screenings
Adventist HealthCare offers many blood pressure screenings throughout the community each month. Visit AHCYou.com/ W20Calendar for additional class/event locations.
PRENATAL, FAMILY AND WOMEN’S HEALTH Adventist HealthCare offers parent and family education classes to provide expert advice, support and education before and after birth. Classes include: • Childbirth • Breastfeeding • Grandparents • Brother/Sister Learn more at AHCYou.com/W20Calendar.
Lactation Services
Adventist HealthCare offers a range of lactation classes, consultations and breast pump rentals, as well as breastfeeding support groups. To learn more, visit AHCYou.com/W20Calendar and look under “Pregnancy, Birth & Your New Baby.”
Gestational Diabetes Education Gestational diabetes counseling is by
appointment. This counseling teaches momsto-be how to manage blood glucose through proper nutrition, monitoring and exercise. Call 301-315-3129 for more information.
Support Groups
Adventist HealthCare offers several support groups for parents. To learn more or find a location near you, visit AHCYou.com/ W20Calendar or call 877-684-1511. BEST: Breastfeeding Education, Support and Togetherness (SGMC) When: Wednesdays from 10:30 a.m.–noon Preregistration is required. Where: Visit AHCYou.com/W20Birth for more details. Programa de Maternidad y Familia (WOMC) Acompáñenos a obtener una guía en la lactancia y la educación de sus hijos. Este programa es gratis e incluye: refrigerio o desayuno liviano, rifas de regalos de maternidad, experta de servicios sociales y de lactancia, educación de maternidad, desarrollo infantil, y de la familia. Todos los miembros de la familia son bienvenidos. Dónde: Llame al 301-891-4852 para más información. Discovering Motherhood: Adjusting to Your New Role Meets every Monday When: 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Where: Visit AHCYou.com/W20Birth for more details.
LEARN MORE OR REGISTER AT AHCYou.com/W20Calendar.
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LIVING HEALTHY
Navigating Fatherhood Would you like to connect with other new dads? This group will help you navigate the challenges of fatherhood. When: One Saturday/month from 1–3:30 p.m. Where: Visit AHCYou.com/W20Birth for more details. Perinatal Loss Support Group This six-week support group for those who have experienced a loss related to pregnancy is run by an experienced perinatal loss specialist. When: Tuesdays, 7–8:30 p.m. Where: River (Willow) Room (SGMC) Info: Call 301-315-3130 or 3131 for more information.
CANCER Integrative Medicine Program Our program combines conventional cancer care with evidence-informed, complementary therapies addressing the whole person – body, mind and spirit. Where: Aquilino Cancer Center Info: For information about upcoming classes, call 240-826-2010. To schedule a clinical consultation, call 301-795-0078.
Cancer Screening Programs Adventist HealthCare, in partnership with the Montgomery Cares Program and the Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services, offers FREE or low cost, lifesaving screening programs. Breast Cancer Screenings: 240-826-CARE (2273) Colorectal Cancer Screenings: 240-826-CARE (2273) or Montgomery County Cancer Crusade at 240-777-1222
BRAIN & SPINE Community Aphasia Group
• Stroke • Spinal cord injury Info: For additional information about these groups, including a schedule of meetings and locations, call 877-684-1511 or visit AHCYou.com/W20Calendar.
NUTRITION, FITNESS AND WEIGHT LOSS Eat Well for Health Join Adventist HealthCare for this monthly cooking and nutrition class to learn a plant-focused meal plan for optimal health. Samples of the meal prepared are provided. Patricia Guay-Berry provides nutrition updates. When: First Wednesday of each month, noon–1 p.m., and second Wednesday of each month, 6:30–7:30 p.m. Where: Aquilino Cancer Center, Iris Room Info: Registration is required, and there is a cost. Call 240-826-2010 or email ACCPrograms@AdventistHealthCare.com.
Weight-Loss Surgery Informational Seminars Learn about the life-changing weightloss surgery options offered at Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center. When: Monthly on the first Thursday, 6–8 p.m.; second and fourth Tuesdays, 6–8 p.m.; and fourth Sunday, 5–7 p.m. Where: SGMC Birch Conference Room Cost: FREE Info: Ongoing series, open to all; call 240-826-5278 for room location and to register.
Post-Op Weight-Loss Surgery Support Group This group provides ongoing support for those who have had weight-loss surgery. Registration is not required. When: First four Thursdays of each month, 7–8:30 p.m. Where: SGMC Dogwood Conference Room Cost: FREE Info: Call 240-826-5278 for more information.
DIABETES Comprehensive Diabetes Self-Management Education Learn to better manage your diabetes with this three-class series. Physician referral required. Info: Call 301-315-3129 for more information.
Prediabetes Class Learn to manage prediabetes and prevent Type 2 diabetes. When: Alternate months on a Thursday, 5–7:30 p.m. Where: SGMC Info: Visit AHCYou.com/W20Calendar to register for these FREE classes.
Diabetes Cooking Class Learn how to prepare quick, easy, healthy and delicious meals with ingredients that will help you better manage diabetes. Info: Visit AHCYou.com/W20Calendar for upcoming dates or to register for these classes. Where: SGMC Magnolia Room When: Alternate months on a Thursday, 6–7 p.m. Diabetes educator Michele McBride, RN, standing and leaning over in the center, helps the community understand how to better control their diabetes through interactive classes.
A communication enrichment program for those with aphasia. Cost: $140 for six-week series Info: Contact Sandi Lancaster at SLancas2@AdventistHealthCare.com or 240-864-6033.
Support Groups • Brain injury
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LEARN MORE OR REGISTER AT AHCYou.com/W20Calendar.
LIVING HEALTHY Sandi Lancaster, a senior speech-language pathologist with Adventist HealthCare Rehabilitation, helps members of the community aphasia group as they prepare for an annual presentation to the University of Maryland speech therapy students.
Living Well With Diabetes This two-and-a-half-hour class includes topics such as monitoring, healthy eating, being active and more! When: Monthly Info: To register, visit AHCYou.com/ W20Diabetes, click “Classes & Events” and “Living Well With Diabetes.”
SUPPORT GROUPS Adventist HealthCare offers many FREE support groups for patients and their loved ones. The following ongoing support groups are available: • Amputee • Narcotics • Alcoholics Anonymous For information about these groups, including a schedule of meetings and locations, call 877-684-1511 or visit AHCYou.com/W20Calendar.
CPR CLASSES Adventist HealthCare Life Support partners with the American Heart Association to provide convenient CPR and First Aid courses. Visit AHCYou.com/W20Calendar or call 240-826-2673 for course schedules, locations and registration. The AHA’s Heartsaver courses are designed to prepare students to provide first aid, CPR, and use an AED in a safe, timely and effective manner. These courses are
intended for anyone with little or no medical training who needs a course completion card for work, regulatory (e.g., OSHA) or other requirements. (Not intended for healthcare workers.)
will be issued when the course is completed.
American Heart Association: Heartsaver CPR and AED Certification
Info: Call 240-826-2673, email
The following topics will be covered: • Adult and Child CPR and AED use •O pioid-associated, life-threatening emergencies • Choking in adults and children • Infant CPR • Choking in infants A completion eCard, good for two years, will be issued when the course is completed. Cost: $85, which includes book When: Monthly Where: CPD, 14915 Broschart Road, Suite 100, Rockville, MD 20850 Info: Call 240-826-2673, email LifeSupport@AdventistHealthCare.com or visit AHCYou.com/W20Calendar.
Cost: $60, which includes book When: Monthly Where: CPD,14915 Broschart Road, Suite 100, Rockville, MD 20850 LifeSupport@AdventistHealthCare.com, or visit AHCYou.com/W20Calendar.
American Heart Association: Infant Safety & CPR This class teaches safety, choking management and CPR for newborns through age 1. An AHA Family & Friends CPR attendance card will be given to each participant at completion. Grandparents welcome. NO BABIES PLEASE. Private, in-home classes are available for groups of 4 or more. Call for details. Class topics include: • CPR skills • Injury and poisoning prevention • Management of choking
American Heart Association: Heartsaver First Aid Certification
Cost: $55/individual or $70/couple, which
The following topics will be covered: •B asics of first aid •M edical emergencies • I njury emergencies •E nvironmental emergencies •P reventing illness and injury A completion eCard, good for two years,
When: Monthly
includes book Where: CPD,14915 Broschart Road, Suite 100, Rockville, MD 20850 Info: Call 240-826-2673, email LifeSupport@AdventistHealthCare.com or visit AHCYou.com/W20Calendar.
LEARN MORE OR REGISTER AT AHCYou.com/W20Calendar.
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EATING WELL
A Cooking Gadget
That Works for Your Diet RE you looking to make healthy eating fun and easy in the new year? “The New Year is viewed as a time to accomplish ambitious goals; however, these goals can be forgotten as early as January second,” says Catherine Fore, RD, bariatric dietitian for Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center. “It’s important to create a plan that incorporates healthy food choices and behaviors that are realistic for you and your schedule.” A handy kitchen tool that can help you keep that New Year’s resolution without compromising taste is an air fryer. Similar to a convection oven, an air fryer can help you cut down on cooking time while making crispy, tasty meals without the added fat of traditional frying. Start your new year right with this simple, healthy air fryer recipe!
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AIR-FRIED ZUCCHINI, YELLOW SQUASH AND CARROTS INGREDIENTS ½ pound carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes 6 teaspoons olive oil 1 pound zucchini, trimmed of stem and root ends, and cut into ¾-inch half moons
1 pound yellow squash, trimmed of stem and root ends, and cut into ¾-inch half moons 1 teaspoon kosher salt ½ teaspoon ground white pepper 1 tablespoon tarragon leaves, roughly chopped
DIRECTIONS 1. Combine carrot cubes with 2 teaspoons of olive oil in a small bowl and toss well. Place the carrots in the air fryer basket and close the drawer. Set the temperature to 400°F and the timer to 5 minutes. 2. While the carrots cook, place zucchini and yellow squash pieces in a medium bowl. Drizzle with the remaining 4 teaspoons of olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Toss well to coat the vegetables evenly. 3. Once the timer goes off, add the zucchini and yellow squash to the air fryer basket along with the carrots and close the drawer. Set the timer for 30 minutes and cook the vegetables, tossing two or three times throughout the process to ensure even browning. 4. When the timer goes off, remove the vegetables from the air fryer and toss it with the tarragon. Serve warm.
For more on healthy eating, visit AHCYou.com/W20Recipe.
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WINTER 2020
REHAB IN ACTION
Staying in Shape in the Winter TAYING motivated to exercise in the winter can be challenging. The days get shorter and temperatures drop, making many of us retreat inside for comfort. Although you may be tempted to stay dormant during the cold winter months, staying active is essential for good health. Bodyweight exercises are a great way to exercise from the comfort of your own home. They are a convenient, cost-effective way to strengthen and protect your muscles and joints. Whether you are trying to get back in shape for a New Year’s resolution or just want to get moving, our sports medicine experts at Adventist HealthCare Rehabilitation recommend doing the following exercises a few times a week. As always, check with your doctor before beginning an exercise routine. Try to complete 10 repetitions of each exercise and repeat each set four times.
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SQUAT
Stand upright with your feet slightly wider than shoulder width apart. Lower yourself as if you are going to sit in a chair. Bend your knees until they are close to a 90-degree angle. Return to the standing position.
Strengthens: Abdominals, hips and thighs
BIRD DOG
Begin on all fours with your arms positioned directly under your shoulders. Straighten one arm and the opposite leg at the same time until they are parallel to the floor. Hold briefly and then return to the starting position. Repeat on the opposite side.
Strengthens: Abdominals, hips, back, arms and thighs
REVERSE LUNGE WITH ROTATION
Begin standing with your feet shoulder width apart and your arms extended in front of you. Step backward with one leg, lowering your body into a lunge position, and rotate your torso to the side. Then carefully return to the starting position.
Strengthens: Abdominals, hips and thighs
Experiencing pain or discomfort, especially during or after you exercise? Call Adventist HealthCare Rehabilitation at 240-826-8940 to schedule a free 15-minute injury screening.
AHCYOU.COM/W20
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EXPANDING SERVICES
Maryland’s First
Lactation consultant Carol Chornock provides curbside pickup at Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center from moms cleared to donate breast milk to the hospital. Shady Grove is the first hospital in Maryland to host a breast milk donation site.
Hospital-Based Milk Depot HOUSANDS of new moms each year get support from Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center, including guidance from internationally recognized lactation consultants. Now, those breastfeeding experts have opened Maryland’s first hospital-based milk depot to better connect area moms with extra breast milk to babies in need. The depot gives moms who deliver at Shady Grove a new choice for feeding babies who are premature or who require additional nutrition: safe donor breast milk. For local nursing moms with extra milk, the depot provides a convenient way to donate the surplus.
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THE BENEFITS OF BREAST MILK Human milk protects against allergies, helps fight disease and provides growth hormones that help babies develop. Breast milk’s benefits are especially important for the 1 in every 10 babies who is born prematurely in the United States. In Shady Grove’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, which cares for 500 premature babies a year, access to donor milk lifts the stress from moms who want their babies breastfed but need time to build their own supply. “Each donor makes a huge difference for families in need of breast milk. In fact, just one ounce of donor milk can feed four premature babies,” said Carol Chornock, RN, a certified lactation consultant at Shady Grove. “We are so excited to be able to offer this service for our moms and babies.”
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Shady Grove’s partner for the depot, The King’s Daughters Milk Bank of Norfolk, Virginia, is one of 26 accredited U.S. milk banks, which carefully screen, test and pasteurize donated milk to ensure its safety. Potential milk donors are screened much like blood donors. They provide medical and lifestyle histories and undergo blood tests. Once cleared, moms drop off frozen milk at the hospital. After the drop-off, Shady Grove’s lactation consultants send donated milk to The King’s Daughters, where it is bottled, pasteurized and stored in a freezer until a baby needs it. Local moms say they appreciate a safe, convenient way to donate their breast milk. “After my daughter was born, I realized I was overproducing milk,” said Polina Yershova of Poolesville. “I have more than 2,000 ounces of milk saved up among four freezers. I wanted to donate somewhere locally and saw that Shady Grove had a program. I couldn’t think of a better way to use my excess milk than to give it to babies who need it most.”
Women interested in donating can call 757-668-MILK (6455) to begin the screening process.
AGING WELL
Help Loved Ones
Age at Home HEN visiting a loved one recently, did you notice them struggling to complete routine tasks or move around their home safely? For many aging adults, daily activities such as bathing, getting dressed, preparing meals and even just moving around become more challenging and could put them at risk for injury. Additionally, those with a chronic health condition may also need assistance to take their medication, monitor blood pressure and plan meals. Recognizing that your loved one needs additional support is an important first step in helping them live safely and independently at home. Sandra Pierre-Louis, a clinical manager with Adventist HealthCare Home Assistance, answers a few commonly asked questions from family members seeking in-home care options:
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A certified nursing assistant can help your loved one with personal hygiene and other tasks so they can live at home.
hen will I know it’s time to get Q: Whome care for my loved one? A: To determine if your loved one needs support, look to see if they: • Forget to take medication
• Have difficulty keeping their home clean
• Need toileting assistance
• Neglect personal hygiene, such as brushing teeth or bathing
• Struggle to walk from one room to another
Q: What services do you provide?
A: Adventist HealthCare Home Assistance Services offers personal hygiene assistance, medication management, wound care and meal preparation, as well as light laundry and housekeeping services. Our certified home health aides can also transport your loved one to and from doctor appointments and run errands, such as grocery shopping. They also offer companionship services. In-home care can be provided on an hourly or 24-hour basis, depending on the level of need.
do I talk to Q: Hmyowparent about getting help?
A: Initiating a conversation about in-home care can be intimidating, particularly if your loved one is a parent. It’s important to let them know you don’t want to take away their independence. In fact, in-home care can help your parent live comfortably and avoid admission to a nursing home or an assisted living facility.
To learn more about Adventist HealthCare’s in-home support services, call 800-610-2447 or visit AHCYou.com/W20HomeCare.
AHCYOU.COM/W20
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MENTAL HEALTH
Elisha Ross of Gaithersburg finds writing in a journal is one of several techniques that help her manage her bipolar disorder.
MANAGING
MENTAL ILLNESS
One Day at a Time LISHA Ross, 31, is one of the nearly 47 million people in the United States dealing with a mental illness. However, she is rising above her borderline personality disorder and bipolar diagnosis to pursue a career as a poet and help increase understanding of mental illness. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, 1 in 25 adults in the United States experiences a serious mental illness each year. Of Maryland’s 6 million residents, an estimated 175,000 live with a mental health problem. These illnesses can substantially interfere with or limit major life activities. Signs that may indicate mental illness can include: • Feelings of sadness and hopelessness lasting two weeks or longer
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• Changes in sleeping and eating habits • Withdrawal from friends and family During the days leading to Elisha’s May 2019 hospitalization, she recalls feeling an overwhelming sense of anxiety and hopelessness. She knew she needed help and sought care at Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center’s Emergency Department. After completing a mental health assessment, Elisha was admitted to the hospital’s Montgomery Unit.
WHAT HELP IS AVAILABLE? The unit provides treatment for adults with mood disorders, such as depression and bipolar disorder. The program of care includes intensive psychotherapy, medication management and skill development, as well as expressive therapies, such as journaling, art and music. Elisha credits the Montgomery Unit team with helping her develop the skills she uses every day to manage her mental health.
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“The staff helped reignite my love of writing and poetry,” Elisha said. “They encouraged me to use writing as an emotional outlet to help me express what I’m feeling in a healthy way.” According to Marissa Leslie, MD, chair of the department of psychiatry, Shady Grove’s Behavioral Health Services, the hospital’s “goal in inpatient treatment is to help patients understand their psychological triggers and develop coping skills to maintain mental wellness after they are discharged.”
A CREATIVE RENEWAL Since her discharge from inpatient treatment, Elisha has been receiving additional support from Shady Grove’s Outpatient Wellness Clinic. Through therapy, she continues to build on the progress she made and has set goals for her future. And she has achieved one of her primary goals already as she has established herself as a poet and shares her work with audiences at local venues. Elisha also is working to establish a nonprofit group aimed at helping children channel their emotions and distress into art, photography and dance. “I want to share my story with others to help change the way people think about mental health and help others who are diagnosed,” Elisha said. “I want people to know that managing mental illness is a journey. I work hard every day to stay mentally healthy by using my coping skills, getting support from my therapist and taking medication.”
To learn more about Adventist HealthCare’s mental health programs, call 800-204-8600, or visit AHCYou.com/W20Mental.
EXPANDING SERVICES
Expanding Access to Care in
PR I NC E GE ORGE’S O help meet the growing health needs in Prince George’s County, Adventist HealthCare last fall acquired Fort Washington Medical Center, located just south of the National Harbor. By combining resources with the former standalone hospital, Adventist HealthCare will help greatly expand high-quality medical and well-being services in the region. In fact, Adventist HealthCare will invest $35 million over five years to help the medical center meet increased demand as new businesses and residents continue to flock to the area. This expansion of medical services is in keeping with Adventist HealthCare’s history of 100-plus years of serving the Washington, D.C., region. Operating since October as Adventist HealthCare Fort Washington Medical Center, the hospital is a 37-bed facility that serves patients in the Fort Washington, Oxon Hill and Temple Hills areas, as well as parts of Washington. The hospital treats close to 40,000 patients a year in its Emergency Department.
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Adventist Medical Group Imaging Centers Rehabilitation Behavioral Health Services
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PRINCE The decision to align resources was a natural fit for E Germantown Emergency Center GEORGE’S both health systems because of a shared commitment to COUNTY H Shady Grove Medical Center the community. H White Oak Medical Center H Fort Washington “Adventist HealthCare has a long tradition of serving H Fort Washington Medical Center Prince George’s County,” said Eunmee Shim, a longtime 210 Adventist HealthCare executive who was named the new president of Fort Washington Medical Center. “We look Waldorf forward to strengthening care in that part of the region through an increased medical center presence, enhanced CHARLES COUNTY outpatient services and expanded physician practices.” Adventist HealthCare, founded in 1907, features a comprehensive spectrum of care. It is a regional leader in heart, stroke, physical To learn more about Adventist rehabilitation, cancer, pregnancy and childbirth, and other specialty care. HealthCare Fort Washington Medical “Joining Adventist HealthCare represents a major milestone in our longstanding Center, visit AHCYou.com/W20FWMC. mission to provide quality healthcare to our community,” said Henry W. Mosley, a member of the Adventist HealthCare Board of Trustees and former chairman of the board that oversaw Fort Washington Medical Center. “We pledge a continued, shared commitment to healthcare innovation and look forward to building on our promise to our patients to create a model of care that improves choice, access and quality of care.“ Sources: Esri, Bureau of Transportation Statistics, GeoSystems Global Corporation in association with National Geographic Maps and Melcher Media, Inc., TomTom, U.S. Department of Commerce, U.S. Census Bureau
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ADVENTIST HEALTHCARE, INC. 820 W. DIAMOND AVE, SUITE 600 GAITHERSBURG, MD 20878
Adventist HealthCare complies with applicable federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability or sex. For more information, see link on our homepage at AdventistHealthCare.com. ATENCIÓN: si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 301-315-3333. 注意：如果您使用繁體中文，您可以免費獲得語言援助 服務。請致電 301-315-3333。
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FUNDRAISING EVENTS
GOLFERS HIT THE LINKS TO SUPPORT BRAIN AND SPINE CARE An amputee receives tips on his golf swing during Adventist HealthCare Rehabilitation’s Adaptive Golf Clinic in September.
EARLY 100 golfers teed off at Lakewood Country Club in Rockville for the annual Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Campus Golf Classic. Thanks to supportive sponsors and community members, the event raised $165,000 for Brain & Spine services benefiting patients at both Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center and Adventist HealthCare Rehabilitation. The community members gave generously knowing their funds would be used to provide state-of-the-art neurological care for a comprehensive range of issues, including brain and spinal surgery, stroke treatment and spinal cord injury rehabilitation. In addition, Adventist HealthCare Rehabilitation held an Adaptive Golf Clinic for members of the rehabilitation community. The clinic provided instruction and assistance on the fundamentals of golf to people with varied abilities. Many thanks are extended to all of the sponsors and participants who made this event a success, including the Golf Classic’s Title Sponsors, Michael and Amy Aquilino.
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To learn more about how you can support Shady Grove Medical Center’s brain and spine services, visit AHCYou.com/W20Donate.