Adventist HealthCare & You Magazine (Summer 2021)

YOUR GUIDE TO LIVING WELL SUMMER 2021

BACK IN ACTION

After Joint Replacement Tech-assisted surgery allowed Alex Ratnofsky to return to the active lifestyle he loves.

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CLASSES & EVENTS PAGE 10

NEWS BRIEF

COVID-19 VACCINE EFFORTS WIDEN

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Adventist HealthCare continues to support the state of Maryland’s efforts to vaccinate as many residents as possible against COVID-19.

Vaccines are now available at Adventist HealthCare Urgent Care, Adventist Medical Group locations and CoreLife weight loss centers.

For more information, visit AHCYou.com/SU21Vax.

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The expansion of vaccines into these locations comes after Adventist HealthCare administered more than 65,000 doses of vaccine at three temporary community clinics in the initial months of the COVID-19 vaccine rollout, from January to May. The system also partnered with community groups to vaccinate residents at high risk of exposure to or complications from COVID-19, including CASA and the Latino Health Initiative, Montgomery County Coalition for the Homeless, Riderwood Senior Living in Silver Spring and the Montgomery County Medical Society.

POST NAMES ADVENTIST HEALTHCARE TO TOP WORKPLACES LIST

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TABLE OF CONTENTS 3

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Care that Can’t Wait

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Preparing for Back to School

Surviving Breast Cancer During the Pandemic Active Again After Joint Replacement Surgery

Adventist HealthCare earned a spot on The Washington Post’s annual ranking of top workplaces in the Washington, D.C., area. The program is conducted in partnership with employee engagement firm Energage LLC and based on a regional survey that asks employees to rate their own companies in 15 areas such as effectiveness, connection, leadership, employee engagement and pay and benefits. The program was open to any public, private, nonprofit or government employer in the Washington region with 50 or more employees.

“Our goal is to be the best place to work and grow,” said Brendan Johnson, senior vice president of Human Resources for Adventist HealthCare. “We are grateful and humbled that our caregivers feel supported and connected during this incredibly challenging time – and thank The Washington Post for this recognition.”

To learn more about career opportunities, visit AHCYou.com/SU21Jobs.

REHABILITATION CELEBRATES 20 YEARS OF SERVICE

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Vaccinated? Or Not? Now What?

Adventist HealthCare Rehabilitation is celebrating 20 years of care with special observances across its facilities. What began as a 55-bed acute rehabilitation hospital in January 2001 has grown to 97 inpatient beds in two locations and six outpatient clinics across Montgomery County. This fall, Adventist HealthCare Rehabilitation will transition its inpatient hospital in Takoma Park to the sixth and seventh floors of the White Oak Medical Center, bringing specialty care programs accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities for amputation, brain injury, spinal cord injury and stroke.

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A Fearless Return

For more information, visit AHCYOU.com/SU21Rehab.

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A Gift from the Heart

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Living Healthy

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Spice Up Your Summer

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Birth During a Pandemic

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SUMMER 2021

PATIENT PROFILE

SURVIVING BREAST CANCER During the Pandemic

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, many people have delayed routine cancer screenings or seeing their doctor about symptoms.

HILE fear of exposure and the challenges in balancing life’s changes made putting off appointments to visit the doctor understandable, it’s also troubling. Regular screenings and early detection can drastically improve the chances of survival.

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CAROLINE’S STORY Caroline, a breast cancer survivor, admits she was reluctant to receive her annual mammogram at the beginning of the pandemic, even though she was at high risk. “I had an ‘ignorance is bliss’ kind of mindset and I feared getting negative results.”

After an abnormal breast MRI and biopsies in both breasts, she was diagnosed with stage one breast cancer. In the summer of 2020, Caroline worked with the experts at the Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Breast Center, Shady Grove Medical Center and the Shady Grove Adventist Aquilino Cancer Center to determine her best course of action. This included surgery, radiation and services such as nutrition and occupational therapy.

“The goal of regular and high-risk screenings is to have outcomes such as these where patients receive minimal treatment and therapies,” explained Sonya Kella, MD, breast radiologist and medical director of women’s imaging for Adventist HealthCare.

“Caroline is a perfect example of a patient that benefited from early detection such that she did not require chemotherapy to be cured.”

CAREGIVERS AS FAMILY Receiving treatment is challenging under normal circumstances.

Navigating it through COVID-19 has been especially hard. Because of safety guidelines and visitor restrictions, Caroline’s family couldn’t come to support her through surgery or radiation therapy. The caregivers were there for her to lean on for comfort.

If you have been putting off an annual cancer screening, rest assured that your safety and well-being are a top priority at Adventist HealthCare facilities. As Caroline shares, you’ll be in good hands.

“You’re not just a number with this team. People know your name and your story.”

IMPORTANT CANCER SCREENINGS Breast Cancer: Mammograms for women over 40 Colorectal Cancer: Colonoscopies and other screenings starting at 45 Cervical Cancer: HPV tests and other screenings beginning at 25 Lung Cancer: Imaging and other screenings for those at high risk, starting at 55

Talk to your doctor today about the right screenings for you. Visit AHCYou.com/SU21Healthy to find a doctor near you.

AHCYOU.COM/SU21

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PATIENT PROFILE

Active Again

AFTER JOINT REPLACEMENT SURGERY 4

SUMMER 2021

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The ability to live pain-free is a no-brainer.

Life is good.”

— Alex Ratnofsky

“I always tell patients that when their pain is beginning to interfere with their daily activities, there is no reason to wait anymore. It was clear that Mr. Ratnofsky was in a lot of pain when he came to see me,” Dr. Miller said.

After X-rays and a CT scan of Alex’s shoulders, Dr. Miller could see severe arthritis and bone deformity. He determined Alex would need surgery to replace both shoulders.

Dr. Miller told Alex his recovery could take six months to a year per shoulder. Having been so active, Alex was reluctant to take up to two years off. But when his pain intensified and his range of motion in both arms decreased, it was time.

In August 2020, Alex had his first of the two shoulder replacement surgeries at Shady Grove.

HIGH-TECH NAVIGATION Dr. Miller used ExactechGPS®, a technology that allows for more precise surgical planning for joint placements. Dr. Miller planned Alex’s surgery using a 3D model of his shoulder. The technology also allowed Dr. Miller to use trackers, both in Alex’s body and on a computer, to help guide him through the procedure.

“The advantage of this system is that it allows us surgeons to see in real time and adjust our instruments as necessary to have the best outcome for the patients,” Dr. Miller said.

THE ROAD TO RECOVERY

LEX Ratnofsky, 73, of Darnestown has been active his whole life.

“I thrive on exercise and being outdoors. I’ve gone on major hikes both here in the U.S. and internationally.

I joined a CrossFit box in 2015 and I’ve been a distance runner for years,” he said.

But in 2018, Alex started noticing pain in his shoulders during everyday activities.

“I noticed it was becoming painful to reach for something on a top shelf, or even to get dressed in the morning,” he said. He tried physical therapy and changing his exercise routine, but eventually the pain became too much.

He was referred to Craig Miller, MD, an orthopedic surgeon who practices at Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center.

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Immediately following Alex’s surgery, David Acop, a physical therapist with Adventist HealthCare Home Health, visited twice a week to ensure Alex was exercising and to evaluate his home for safety.

About 12 weeks after his surgery, Alex got the all-clear from Dr. Miller to resume his normal activities. He got married to his wife, Judy, and returned to light weightlifting and other regular activities.

“If I don’t exercise each day, I feel like I’m missing something,” Alex said. “I’m addicted to it. So I was very excited to get back to it.”

About 4½ months after his first surgery, in January 2021, Dr. Miller replaced Alex’s right shoulder. He followed the same post-surgery routines from his first surgery, slowly building back his strength and range of motion. He still has some limitations, but he’s optimistic about his future.

“I can brush my hair and get dressed with no pain,” he said.

“I know I still have a little ways to go, but I’m working on it. I’ll get there.”

CERTIFIED EXPERTS HELPED WITH CARE Alex benefited throughout his shoulder replacement process from a team of orthopedic specialists in Shady Grove’s Total Joint Center of Excellence. In January 2021, Shady Grove became the first hospital in our area to earn certification for shoulder replacement surgery from The Joint Commission, a national recognition of their commitment to quality and safety.

“Dr. Miller and the hospital staff at Shady Grove Medical Center were fabulous,” Alex said. “And now, the ability to live pain-free is a no-brainer. Life is good.”

AHCYOU.COM/SU21

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PATIENT PROFILE

ADVANCED SURGERY OPTIONS Orthopedic surgery patients at Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center benefit from the latest robot-assisted joint replacement technology.

The hospital’s surgeons were among the first to use these devices in the D.C. region. Here’s a look at these high-tech surgical systems:

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ExactechGPS® What It Does: The ExactechGPS® computer system helps surgeons plan for shoulder replacement using virtual simulation. The tool creates a 3-D model that gives surgeons greater visibility of the intricate shoulder anatomy, allowing for more consistent and accurate implant placement.

Surgeons Say: “The advantage of the computer is that it allows us to see in real time and adjust as necessary to the position of the instruments we’re using to have the most accurate and safest outcomes for the patients. It protects things behind the bone, like nerves and vessels.”

— Craig Miller, MD

Computer-assisted, minimally invasive surgery results in a smaller incision site, shorter operating time and faster recovery than traditional open surgery

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Surgeons Say: “After working with MAKO at Shady Grove for over six years, I can say the results for our patients are excellent. Clinical studies also show it. Patients report less pain, better range of motion and higher satisfaction than with traditional joint replacement.”

— Mark Peterson, MD

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MAKOPlasty® What It Does: MAKOPlasty® is computer-guided alignment used in total joint replacement surgery. It provides precise measurements for partial knee, total knee and total hip replacements. It allows for less invasive surgery compared to standard joint replacement.

ROSA® Knee System What It Does: ROSA® helps surgeons perform partial and total joint replacement more precisely using a minimally invasive technique. Surgeons can create a 3-D model of a patient’s knee anatomy from a series of X-rays for greater detail when planning surgery. During knee replacements, cameras and optical trackers attached to the leg help surgeons account for even the slightest movements for more accurate positioning of joints.

Surgeons Say: “ROSA allows me to correct complex deformities while still maintaining a minimally invasive technique and reproducible accuracy of implant alignment and fit. In the short term, patients can get up and moving faster, which allows for an outpatient surgery with less pain and quicker recovery of function. In the long term, the joint replacement can last longer because the robotic assistance allows much more accurate compost placement, customized implant fit and better joint kinematics.”

— Sridhar Durbhakula, MD

To learn more about joint replacement surgery options, please visit AHCYou.com/SU21Ortho.

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SUMMER 2021

YOUR HEALTH

CARE THAT

CAN’T WAIT The COVID-19 pandemic has forced us to put off a lot of things. One thing we can’t delay is getting help in an emergency.

HE Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found in a 2020 survey that 41% of U.S. adults said they delayed or avoided medical care because of concerns about COVID-19, with 12% saying they had avoided urgent or emergency care.

Locally, Adventist HealthCare hospitals have seen a decline in emergency room visits. This includes a drop in patients with symptoms of heart disease and stroke, which the CDC notes are among the top causes of death in the U.S. These health emergencies don’t stop during a pandemic. It’s important to understand when to seek emergency care. Tuan Vu, MD, assistant medical director of Emergency Medicine at Adventist HealthCare Fort Washington Medical Center, says patients should visit the emergency room immediately if they experience: • A seizure • Chest pain • Difficulty breathing • A compound fracture • Uncontrollable bleeding or swelling If symptoms aren’t clear-cut and you are weighing which healthcare setting is best, Dr. Vu says urgent care, a physician’s office or telemedicine are appropriate for conditions like: • Rashes • Ear Pain • Minor burns and lacerations • Fever • COVID-19 symptoms • Pink eye By treating health problems properly now, you can head off serious, long-term issues later, he adds.

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ER SAFETY Fear of COVID-19 shouldn’t deter anyone from calling 9-1-1 or coming to the hospital. Dr. Vu notes that like other Adventist

HealthCare hospitals, Always call 9-1-1 Fort Washington Medical if you are experiencing Center introduced loss of consciousness, safety measures such signs of a heart attack, as COVID-19 symptom shortness of breath or screenings for team difficulty breathing members and visitors, or life or limb a universal masking threatening injury. policy and socially distanced waiting areas.

Fort Washington also gives patients the option to wait in their car until called for their visit.

Since the pandemic began, Adventist HealthCare hospitals have taken extra measures to make sure patients who need care are safe and comfortable. Emergency room patients will receive fast, high-quality treatment from Adventist HealthCare’s award-winning care teams. Our hospitals have earned national recognition for the care of heart attacks, strokes and other critical conditions.

You can also minimize your risk of conditions that require emergency care by: • Paying attention to high blood pressure and cholesterol.

• Scheduling routine check-ups with a doctor • Finding a form of exercise you enjoy and can stick with “Through the pandemic, Fort Washington Medical Center has been committed to high-quality emergency treatment,” Dr. Vu says. “We hope you don’t need us, but we are here if you do.”

To learn more about emergency services at Adventist HealthCare or to view current ER wait times at some of our facilities, visit AHCYou.com/SU21Emergency.

AHCYOU.COM/SU21

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PANDEMIC RESPONSE

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SUMMER 2021

PREPARING FOR BACK TO SCHOOL: Navigating the Return to In-Person Learning COVID-19 hasn’t been easy for anyone, but it has been especially hard on families with children.

HIS fall, most school districts are planning on returning to in-person schooling. Returning to the classroom may be difficult for those who have been learning virtually for over a year, making it stressful not only for parents, but the entire family. Students who have been in a hybrid situation for school might also struggle with going back to campus full time.

While it may be difficult in the beginning, returning to school will benefit children of all ages.

As Jimmy Venza, Ph.D., executive director at The Lourie Center for Children’s Social & Emotional Wellness, explains, “Children benefit from social interactions with other children for their overall health and well-being.”

He suggests preparing your child to return to school by: • Discussing going to school for a full day • Attending summer camps or having play dates with friends • Starting a school routine a few weeks before school starts • Addressing their concerns

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HOW TO MAKE IT EASIER While many students will be excited to return to school and see their friends, they can still be apprehensive. Younger children might experience separation anxiety from their parents while older children may fear getting sick. Reassure your child that going to school will be fun and they will enjoy being with their friends and meeting their teachers. If your school offers orientation, attending can also help alleviate concerns you or your child has.

As a parent, help ease your concerns by: • Understanding your school’s COVID-19 policies • Vaccinating your child if eligible • Reviewing ways to stay healthy with your child Heading back to school this fall will likely pose some challenges, but you can begin preparing now and be ready for whatever comes your way.

GET READY FOR BACK TO SCHOOL WITH THESE SAFETY TIPS • Don’t send children to school if they are feeling sick.

• Start practicing with kids who may need to wear face masks all day.

• Talk with kids about what to expect at school and how it will be different from before. One idea for the discussion is to play a “what’s the same” and “what’s different” naming game.

• Know your school’s COVID-19 policies.

• Continue to encourage frequent hand washing.

• Have a plan in case of a COVID-19 exposure.

Adventist HealthCare Urgent Care is available to you for COVID-19 tests, sick visits and sports physicals. Visit AHCYou.com/SU21UrgentCare for more information.

AHCYOU.COM/SU21

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CLASSES NOW BEING OFFERED ONLINE

LIVING healthy

Adventist HealthCare offers classes, events and activities to support a healthy body, mind and spirit. Many in-person classes and events have been canceled due to COVID-19. Some of our classes are now being offered online. For the most up-to-date information about our classes, visit AHCYou.com/SU21Calendar.

PRENATAL, FAMILY AND WOMEN’S HEALTH Adventist HealthCare offers online pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding classes and support groups so that you can prepare for baby in the comfort of your own home. Classes include: • Childbirth & Infant Care • Breastfeeding To learn more and register, visit AHCYou. com/SU21Calendar or call 800-542-5096.

BEST: Breastfeeding Education, Support and Togetherness When: Wednesdays from 10:30–11:30 a.m.

Preregistration is required.

Where: Visit AHCYou.com/SU21Support for more details.

Discovering Motherhood: Adjusting to Your New Role When: Mondays from 10:30–11:30 a.m.

Preregistration is required.

Where: Visit AHCYou.com/SU21Moms for more details.

Navigating Fatherhood Meets one Saturday a month, check website for dates When: Noon–1:30 p.m.

Preregistration is required.

Where: Visit AHCYou.com/SU21Calendar for more details.

Perinatal Loss Support This six-week support group for those who have experienced a loss related to pregnancy is run by an experienced perinatal loss specialist.

When: 7–8:30 p.m.

Preregistration is required.

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Where: Visit AHCYou.com/SU21Support for more details.

Info: Call 800-542-5096 for dates and more information.

MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT GROUPS Virtual support groups are offered by the Outpatient Wellness Clinic and are open to patients and their families, community members, and employees. Visit AHCYou.com/SU21Support or call 301-838-4912 with questions.

Grief + Loss Support Group When: Wednesdays from 4–5 p.m.

Pre-registration is required.

Where: Visit AHCYou.com/SU21Support for more details.

Info: You must be 21 years or older to participate.

NUTRITION, FITNESS AND WEIGHT LOSS Weight Loss Program CoreLife and Adventist HealthCare’s unique program combines medical expertise, nutrition, fitness and behavior modification all under one roof to empower our patients to live healthier lives. Schedule your first appointment by calling 800-905-3261 and learn more by visiting us at AHCYou.com/ SU21CoreLife or on Facebook @CoreLife.

Weight Loss Surgery Seminars and Support Groups Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center offers free informational seminars about weight loss surgery options as well

as support groups for those who have had surgery.

Info: Call 240-826-5278 for details.

CPR CLASSES Adventist HealthCare Life Support is an official American Heart Association Training Center offering CPR and first-aid education for our community. Some classes have returned with safety measures in place. Visit AHCYou.com/ SU21Calendar, call 240-826-2673 or email LifeSupport@AdventistHealthCare.com for more information.

COMMUNITY HEALTH AHC Health Talks: Summer Skin Care Join us as we discuss summer skin care from head to toes!

When: Aug. 3 from 1–2 p.m.

AHC Health Talks: Hands-Only CPR with AED Demo Join us for a quick in-person session and learn how to perform hands-only CPR in the park at the City of Rockville Senior Center. The class will be conducted outside, with social distancing. Class size limited to 10 students per session.

When: Aug. 4 Let’s Talk Blood Pressure Series: Stress This session will cover the links between stress and blood pressure. Learn a variety of ways to control stress.

When: Aug. 9 from 1–2 p.m.

For more on these classes, visit AHCYou.com/ SU21Calendar.

LEARN MORE OR REGISTER AT AHCYou.com/SU21Calendar.

HEALTHY EATING

Spice Up Your Summer with Healthy Recipes Need a great dish for family night or when reuniting with friends? Get inspired with our healthy, easy-tofollow recipes such as spicy chicken pizza!

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AKE more by doubling the recipe to make several pizzas. Substitute vegetable toppings to make a variety of different pizza themes everyone can enjoy!

PERSONAL SPICY CHICKEN PIZZA 3-INGREDIENT DOUGH

1 cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt 1 cup all-purpose flour

1½ teaspoons baking powder

TOPPINGS ½ ½ 1 4 1

cup tomato sauce tablespoon hot sauce (optional) jalapeno pepper, sliced cherry tomatoes, sliced cup fresh spinach

½ 1 3 2 1

red onion, thinly sliced cup part-skim mozzarella cheese ounces cooked chicken, diced or shredded strips turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled tablespoon light ranch dressing

DIRECTIONS 1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

2. Prepare 3-ingredient dough by mixing Greek yogurt, flour and baking powder together. Form dough into a circle, then roll flat with a rolling pin.

3. Line pan with parchment paper and place crust on top. Bake for 5 minutes.

4. Remove crust from oven.

5. If using, toss chicken in hot sauce. If you choose to omit hot sauce, skip this step!

6. Top with pizza sauce, cheese, chicken, turkey bacon and vegetables.

7. Return pan to oven and bake for 15–20 minutes or until edges start to brown.

8. Remove from oven and cut into slices.

9. Drizzle with light ranch and enjoy!

Need more inspiration for healthy mealtimes? Check out AHCYou.com/SU21Recipes.

Source: Alyson Hickman, registered dietitian with CoreLife.

REUNITING AFTER A YEAR APART? IF YOU’RE THINKING OF PLANNING A GET-TOGETHER, FOLLOW THESE TIPS TO KEEP EVERYONE HEALTHY AND EASE ANXIETIES. • Keep cold foods cold and hot foods hot to prevent foodborne illnesses.

• Keep it outside and provide tables for each household to sit to reduce the risk of COVID-19 if guests are not vaccinated.

• Provide individual disposable tableware and hand sanitizer for each table.

• Play games such as trivia, charades or bingo to keep social distance.

• Plan it to avoid the hottest part of the day to keep everyone cool.

• Respect everyone’s choice to wear masks as guidelines change.

AHCYOU.COM/SU21

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WOMEN’S HEALTH

Welcoming Baby During a Pandemic COVID-19 brought a stop to many things, but not childbirth.

DDED safety precautions and limits on visitors have not diminished the joy inside The Birth Center at Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center, says Stephen Lakner, MD, who chairs the hospital’s OB-GYN department.

“Moms are resilient, and so are their babies. While the pandemic has caused some hiccups and forced us to make some changes to our processes, our moms and babies have adapted well.”

Read about these local moms, their experiences having a baby at Shady Grove during a global pandemic and their advice for expectant moms.

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Annie M. • Rockville, MD Delivery Date: July 2020 “Overall, my experience of having a baby during a pandemic was very positive. The hospital was very clean; all of the medical staff, nurses and doctors wore masks and used sanitizer or washed their hands upon entering my room. I actually really enjoyed having this experience with just me, my husband and our new baby boy. For my previous deliveries, we had a ton of family come visit, and this time it was really nice just to enjoy the precious moments with just the three of us!”

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR MOMS ABOUT TO GIVE BIRTH?

“As soon as you have your baby in your arms, you’ll forget about everything else! Focus on your baby and the blissful days of having amazing support from your nurses. Enjoy the quietness of your time together with your partner/support person and baby without people coming in and out all day. You’ve got this!”

Alisha C. • Rockville, MD Delivery Date: May 2020 “I delivered my second child during the pandemic, and honestly, delivery and the stay in the hospital were great. After my quick delivery, the labor and delivery nurse was so kind and got me the best 4 a.m. tuna sandwich ever. And once we got to the Mother/Baby Unit, I could just focus on my baby and on myself.

I didn’t have to worry about anyone else’s needs, and it was like a mini-vacation (minus the sleep) after being hugely pregnant, working and entertaining my daughter all day for two months. I was a little sad to only stay one night! The nurses were amazing and helped pick up any slack, and the staff were all so kind and wonderful, even during a scary and uncertain time for their own health.”

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR MOMS ABOUT TO GIVE BIRTH?

“Parenting quickly teaches you to be flexible and live with uncertainty and that you can manage it. There are certainly differences between delivering during a pandemic and in ‘normal’ times, but everyone at Shady Grove will make your experience as close to the usual one as possible.”

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SUMMER 2021

Heather S. • New Market, MD Delivery Date: November 2020 “This was our second child. The delivery was much different than our first son.

We had the waiting room packed with people when our first son was born. This time it was just me and my husband. I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t apprehensive with the pandemic and the inability to have family at the hospital with us. With that said, it was actually really nice to have the bonding time with just the three of us. It was definitely a different experience to have to mask up during some of my labor, but I completely understood why. Throughout my labor and our stay in the Mother/Baby Unit we both always felt very safe.”

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR MOMS ABOUT TO GIVE BIRTH?

“Being pregnant during a pandemic when there are so many unknowns is hard. It was hard to quarantine prior to giving birth. We chose to do that as a precaution for our own safety and our son’s. It definitely was worth it in the end.

Always remember that your body and mind are made to do amazing things. The doctors and staff do everything to make sure that they are also following all of the safety protocols, but they still create opportunities for you to enjoy the birth experience. Keep your focus on a safe, healthy delivery!”

Annet B. • Derwood, MD Delivery Date: December 2020 “It was our first birth, and they were triplets! I was happy that my husband was allowed in the delivery room. This was a high-risk pregnancy, so I needed all the emotional support. When I delivered, I was constantly worried that we would contract COVID-19 during our NICU visits, as they went on for two and a half months. Thankfully, it did not happen! The level of care at the hospital is comparable to none. Doctors and nurses went above and beyond! They truly became family. The NICU team made the whole situation bearable.”

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR MOMS ABOUT TO GIVE BIRTH?

“Have a positive mindset. It is easy to worry, but it’s actually safe. I was at the NICU for a long time but came out safe with my babies. So, for expectant mothers, you can relax! Listen to your healthcare provider, follow healthy guidelines. Be ready to receive the best care for you and your baby.”

Our virtual Discovering Motherhood support group connects moms and experts from The Birth Center at Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center. For more information, visit AHCYou.com/SU21Moms.

AHCYOU.COM/SU21

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PANDEMIC RESPONSE

VACCINATED? OR NOT?

NOW WHAT?

Updated guidelines on what the CDC recommends to stay safe from COVID-19

ARE YOU FULLY VACCINATED?

You are considered fully vaccinated: • 2 weeks after your second dose in a 2-dose series, such as with the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines, or • 2 weeks after a single-dose vaccine, such as Johnson & Johnson’s vaccine.

WHAT YOU CAN DO SAFELY IF YOU’RE FULLY VACCINATED

• You can resume most activities with little risk of COVID-19.

• You can gather inside or outside, in crowds large and small, with those fully vaccinated and those who are not.

• You do not need to wear a mask except on public transportation and in schools, child care and healthcare settings.

• If you have had an exposure to someone with COVID-19, you do not need to avoid others or get tested unless you have symptoms.

WHAT IF I’M NOT YET VACCINATED? You should still: • Get a COVID-19 vaccine as soon as you’re ready. Studies showed current vaccines are extremely effective at preventing hospitalization and death from COVID-19.

• Wear a mask when indoors with large groups of people or when someone’s vaccination status is unknown.

• Wash/sanitize your hands regularly.

• Stay 6 feet away from other people.

• Avoid large crowds/gatherings.

• Avoid poorly ventilated spaces.

For more information on COVID-19 vaccines, visit AHCYou.com/SU21Vax.

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SUMMER 2021

MENTAL HEALTH

A Fearless Return Overcoming Concerns as the World Reopens After the Pandemic

HE fear, anxiety and stress caused by COVID-19 have affected people mentally as well as physically. In studies by the Kaiser Family Foundation, about 4 in 10 adults in the U.S. reported symptoms of anxiety or depressive disorder during the pandemic. Many adults also noted that worry and stress over the coronavirus have caused specific negative impacts on their health and well-being, including worsening chronic conditions.

Marissa Leslie, MD, medical director of Psychiatry at Adventist HealthCare, offered these tips for overcoming fear of COVID-19 as the world begins to reopen.

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GENTLY RETURN TO SOCIALIZING Social distance with friends and family to reconnect and get used to being around other people again.

Dr. Leslie mentioned that everyone needs human connection.

Being shut off from loved ones can hurt our psyche, which ultimately feeds into the fear and anxiety of resuming our lives.

“Everyone can benefit from a reset as the restrictions lessen,” she said. “Take time to reassess what is important to you. Life now and in the future may look a little different, but it doesn’t always have to be worse.”

TURN TO FAITH “Faith is the bridge from fear to strength,” said Dr. Leslie. Faith can be a powerful force and can get you through tough times, including added stress and anxiety over COVID-19.

Beverly, a patient at Adventist HealthCare White Oak Medical

Center, attributes her recovery from COVID-19 to her faith, as well as the faith-based care at the hospital. What started as such a frightening time turned into a positive life-altering experience because of the support she received during her hospital stay.

“I refer to them as my guardian angels,” she said of her care team at White Oak Medical Center. “They were always really encouraging, and I have never met nurses that were quite like them.”

Her experience with COVID-19 strengthened her faith, she said.

“I can’t be fearful if I am going to say that I have faith, because faith and fear can’t live in the same place.”

OTHER FEAR-FIGHTING STRATEGIES Dr. Leslie also suggested: • Seek reliable scientific sources to learn safe ways to resume activities.

• Increase your exercise to help release any anxiety.

• Relax. Study techniques such as meditation, mindful exercise or massage.

While everyone wants to see COVID-19 in the rearview mirror, there will be lingering aftereffects. Learning ways to overcome your fear will ease your mind and enhance your overall well-being. It’s time to embrace the new normal.

Battling anxiety? Our virtual support group can help.

For more information visit AHCYou.com/SU21Support.

AHCYOU.COM/SU21

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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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COMMUNITY BENEFIT

A GIFT FROM THE HEART

Fayaz Shawl, MD, medical director of Interventional Cardiology, and team members provide lifesaving heart care to our community with support from donor John Darvish Sr. and family.

Darvish Family Donates $500,000 to White Oak Medical Center 1990, John Darvish Sr., founder of DARCARS Automotive, received heart care at Washington Adventist Hospital, now White Oak Medical Center, from a team led by cardiologist Fayaz Shawl, MD. Since then, Mr. Darvish has taken every opportunity to show his gratitude for Dr. Shawl and the hospital’s caregivers. The Darvish family’s support began with sponsoring hospital golf tournaments. Their generosity continued during the COVID-19 pandemic, when DARCARS set up shop at Adventist HealthCare hospitals for several days each to provide vehicle sanitizing services to employees.

Mr. Darvish’s willingness to make a difference for others did not stop there. In December 2020, he gave a large gift that will have a lasting impact on the health of our community – $500,000 to benefit White Oak Medical Center’s nationally recognized heart care.

“It is a gift that means so much to White Oak Medical Center’s heart program,” said Anthony Stahl, president. “We are truly grateful to Mr. Darvish, his family and DARCARS.” Jamie Darvish, DARCARS chief operating officer said, “This gift is meant to thank caregivers and the hospital for its extraordinary commitment to its patients and the community.”

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Learn more about how you can give to Adventist HealthCare at AHCYou.com/SU21GIVE.