March-April 2013 HealthScope

March/April 2013

A bi-monthly update on leading-edge care from

NON-PROFIT U.S. POSTAGE

PAID UNITED MAIL

1850 State Street New Albany, IN 47150

HealthScope is published by Floyd Memorial Hospital and Health Services Marketing & Public Relations Department 1850 State Street New Albany, Indiana 47150 (812) 948-6728 or 1-800-476-8723 Cindy Ferree Editor, Writer Angie Rose Director of Marketing & Public Relations, Writer Angie Glotzbach Writer Stacey Rudy Contributor CUSTOMER SERVICE Floyd Memorial customer service inquires can be made to our Customer Service Hotline at (812) 981-6510.

Turn to us when you’re not feeling so hot.

HOW TO HELP HealthScope is designed to support the Healthier Community Initiative by providing up-to-date health tips and wellness information to benefit our community’s health. Through this publication, the Floyd Memorial Foundation hopes to encourage healthier active lifestyles for the residents of Southern Indiana. As a non-profit organization, Floyd Memorial relies on your support of our Foundation to provide health screenings, educational programs and hospital improvements. To learn how to help, visit floydfoundation.org or call (812) 949-5519.

Visit “Careers” at floydmemorial.com to find out more about exciting career opportunities available at Southern Indiana’s premier regional healthcare provider.

Follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/fmhhs and Twitter at twitter.com/Floyd_Memorial

But if it does happen, and your doctor’s office is closed, it’s nice to know that you can turn to one of Floyd Memorial’s Urgent Care Centers.

And with two convenient locations, we are right

Treatment for most minor injuries and illnesses, including: Sore throats Earaches Sinus problems Congestion X-rays

Headaches Minor sports injuries Tick removal Insect bites and stings

Gastric Sleeve Bariatric Surgery Now Available

there when you need us.

Jay C

Floyds Knobs

New Albany

Urgent Care Center Highlander Point 800 Highlander Point Floyds Knobs, IN 47119 (812) 923-6336

Urgent Care Center Charlestown Road 5130 Charlestown Road, Ste 2 (near County Line Road) New Albany, IN 47150 (812) 949-1577

Monday-Friday: 9am-8pm Weekends/Holidays: 9am-5pm Closed Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years Day

150

Monday-Friday: 8am-8pm Weekends/Holidays: 9am-5pm Closed Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years Day

DQ

Jay C

Urgent Care Center Charlestown Rd.

www.floydmemorial.com/fmmg

The Important Link Between Your Weight and Joint Health

Rite Aid

Urgent Care Center Highlander Point

ER HIGHLAND .

POINT DR

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

There is never a good time for an illness or injury.

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Artificial Total Disc Replacement Helps Young Mother Keep Up with Her Family

Support and Options Add Up to Weight Loss Success at the Floyd Memorial Weight Management Center

Cancer Rehab Helps Patients Live Life to the Fullest

Floyd Memorial Welcomes Vascular Surgeon Dean J. Wickel, MD Floyd Memorial Medical Group-Vascular Surgery and the Floyd Memorial Wound Healing Center would like to welcome board certified vascular surgeon, Dean J. Wickel, MD. Dr. Wickel completed medical school at the University of South Carolina. He then went on to complete a general surgery residency at the University of Louisville and a vascular surgery fellowship at the University of Tennessee. After completing his education and training, Dr. Wickel spent four years at Brooke Army Medical Center in Texas, where he served as a commissioned officer in the United States Army. Services offered by Dr. Wickel include non-surgical vascular medicine; peripheral artery bypass procedures and endovascular stents for the treatment of peripheral vascular occlusive disease; carotid endarterectomy

Floyd Memorial Medical Group Welcomes Gregory Pfister, MD

SAVE THE DATE

for the prevention and treatment of stroke; abdominal aortic aneurysm with both traditional and the newer endovascular stent-graft methods; surgical and minimally invasive techniques for the treatment of cosmetic spider veins and varicose veins; and medical and minimally invasive treatment of deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

For more information, or to schedule a consultation, contact Floyd Memorial Medical Group-Vascular Surgery at (812) 949-5575 or the Floyd Memorial Wound Healing Center at (812) 949-7964.

Floyd Memorial Medical Group is proud to welcome board certified family medicine physician, Gregory T. Pfister, MD, to our Jeffersonville office. Under the care of Dr. Pfister, you’ll have access to the toprated healthcare of Floyd Memorial Hospital, right in Jeffersonville. A Southern Indiana native and resident, Dr. Pfister graduated from Indiana University School of Medicine and completed residency at St. Mary’s Medical Center in Evansville. Dr. Pfister has been practicing medicine for nearly 15 years.

He provides care for all ages, and is accepting new patients. Call (812) 280-0413 today to schedule your appointment.

Floyd Memorial Spine and Joint Replacement Centers Earn Prestigious National Designation

Floyd Memorial is proud to announce that the Floyd Memorial Spine Center has just been designated as a 2012 Blue Distinction Center for Spine Surgery, and

the Floyd Memorial Joint Replacement Center has once again earned the Blue Distinction Center designation for Knee and Hip Replacement by Blue Cross and Blue Shield.

The Blue Distinction is a national designation that recognizes facilities that demonstrate expertise in delivering quality specialty care – safely, efficiently and cost effectively. It is awarded to facilities that meet nationally established, objective

Bank Street Brewhouse Named Heart Healthy Dining Out People’s Choice Winner

Thanks to all of our participating restaurants: Bank Street Brewhouse, Floyd Memorial Food and Nutrition Services, Fireside Bar and Grill’s Gourmet to Go, Sam’s Food and Spirits, Tan Thai Restaurant and Tucker’s American Favorites.

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Looking for a Physician?

Floyd Memorial hosted its second annual Heart Healthy Dining Out event on Tuesday, February 12. The event featured presentations on heart health and how to eat heart healthy when dining out, followed by free samples of healthy fare from six local restaurants.

Attendees voted on their favorite offerings, and the winner was Bank Street Brewhouse with their local greens salad with Capriole Farms goat cheese, toasted nuts, bosc pears and champagne vinaigrette.

quality measures, focused on patient safety and outcomes, developed with thoughtful input from the medical community, as well as cost of care criteria.

The goal of the designation is to help consumers find both quality and value for their specialty care needs, on a consistent basis, while encouraging healthcare professionals to improve the overall quality and delivery of care nation wide.

Floyd Memorial Foundation Golf Classic 2013 Set for June 14 T o donate or reserve a spot for your team, call the Foundation at (812) 949-5803.

Save the date for the 2013 Floyd Memorial Foundation Golf Classic, the Foundation’s biggest fundraising event of the year. This year’s event will be held on Friday, June 14 at Fuzzy Zoeller’s Covered Bridge Golf Club, with a semiformal reception and auction for players and donors the evening prior, on June 13.

Massage Tailored to Your Specific Condition Everyone knows that massage feels great, but the particular type of massage we need depends on each individual situation. One person may be dealing with a lot of stress, one active in sports and another working through an injury. Each massage should be tailored to the individual.

The types of massage offered at the Floyd Memorial Rehab Center include Swedish, sports injury, orthopedic and prenatal.

Give our certified massage therapists a call today at (812) 948-7416 to schedule your appointment and begin the healthy habit of regular massage. We now accept all major credit cards and offer loyalty programs for frequent customers.

Calling All Beautiful Babies!

Starting May 1, proud moms, dads, family members and friends can submit a baby photo in our Facebook Beautiful Baby Photo Contest, sponsored by Babies R Us. Children in the photos should be newborn to 36 months of age. Go to facebook.com/fmhhs and click on the “Contests” tab to enter and/or vote. One vote per Facebook account per day will be allowed, so encourage your friends and family to vote too. The winner will receive a $100 Babies R Us gift card, professional photo shoot with photo package and goodie basket from the Floyd Memorial Birthing Center. The contest will run from May 1 to 31. The winner will be announced June 3.

Do you see a physician in the Professional Arts Building in New Albany?

Guardian Angel Congratulations to Floyd Memorial’s recent Guardian Angel recipients: The Guardian Angel program offers patients and visitors a way to say thank you to a special associate, physician or volunteer who has made a positive difference in their hospital experience by making a donation in their honor to the Floyd Memorial Foundation. For more information, call (812) 949-5803.

Mary Berdy, RN, Lactation Consultant Birthing Center Whitney Wehner, RN Cardiac Telemetry Unit Michael Barker, Technician John Petrey, MD Emergency Services Micki Roberts, Supervisor Environmental Services

Amy Wyatt, Recruiter Human Resources Kathy Pate, RN Surgical Inpatient Unit Lisa Lizinby, RN Ronald Weiss, MD Urgent Care Highlander Point Bridgette Todd, RN Birthing Center

Floyd Memorial is now offering diagnostic imaging scheduling/pre-registration, laboratory services and Quest Diagnostics collections all in one convenient location. Our new office in Suite 100 of the Professional Arts Building is your one stop shop for scheduling and preregistering for your radiology exam, laboratory

testing and Quest Diagnostics collections. Visit our office Monday through Friday, 8:30 am to 5 pm for radiology scheduling/pre-registration, and 7:30 am to 4:30 pm for laboratory and Quest Diagnostics services. Call us at (812) 949-5570 for radiology services or (812) 949-5779 for lab services.

Call Floyd Memorial’s Physician Referral line at 1-800-4-SOURCE (1-800-476-8723) or visit us online at www.floydmemorial.com. We can help you find the doctor that’s just right for your specific needs.

New Physicians Thomas J. Altstadt, MD Neurosurgery Center for Advanced Neurosurgery 3900 Kresge Way, #41 Louisville, KY 40207 (502) 899-3623 Ifeoma Roseline Okeke, MD Oncology/Hematology Floyd Memorial Cancer Center of Indiana 2210 Green Valley Road New Albany, IN 47150 (812) 945-4000 Gregory Pfister, MD Family Medicine Floyd Memorial Medical Group-Jeffersonville 1507 Spring Street Jeffersonville, IN 47130 (812) 280-0413 Dean J. Wickel, MD Vascular Surgery Floyd Memorial Medical Group-Vascular Surgery 2125 State Street, #3 New Albany, IN 47150 (812) 949-5575

On the cover...

Floyd Memorial Weight Management Center team pictured left to right: (front row) Martha Truman, BS, MAT, Sri Prakash Mokshagundam, MD, Vasti Broadstone, MD, Lanny Gore MD, and Joan Weston, RN, BSN (back row) Nancy Anderson, BS, MSM, Kim Pinnick, Nathan Durrett and Amy Brown, RD, CES, CDE (not pictured) Julie Hutchinson, MD

Cancer Center of Indiana Welcomes Ifeoma Roseline Okeke, MD The Floyd Memorial Cancer Center of Indiana is proud to welcome hematologist and board certified medical oncologist, Ifeoma Roseline Okeke, MD, to its staff.

Dr. Okeke comes to the Cancer Center with over 15 years of experience practicing medicine, most recently at Akron General Medical Center in Ohio. She has also served in the university

setting as a clinical assistant professor at the Northeastern Ohio University College of Medicine and Pharmacy. Dr. Okeke treats all types of cancer, with a special interest in breast, as well as general hematology problems. She sees patients in the Cancer Center of Indiana’s New Albany and Jeffersonville locations.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call the Floyd Memorial Cancer Center of Indiana at (812) 945-4000.

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Gastric Sleeve Bariatric Surgery Now Available “The primary advantage of gastric sleeve surgery is that while it creates a smaller stomach like gastric bypass, it does not involve bypassing the small intestine, which allows for normal digestion and absorption of nutrients. It’s the perfect middle ground for patients who need something more aggressive than gastric banding, but aren’t comfortable with the potential complications of gastric bypass.”

Julie Hutchinson, MD Bariatric and Board Certified General Surgeon Floyd Memorial Weight Management Center

“A patient’s life can truly be changed for the better with gastric banding or sleeve surgery. Losing the excess weight improves overall health and boosts confidence to do the things they’ve always wanted to do, but couldn’t because of their weight. We are personally involved in each patient’s journey to a healthier and happier life.”

Lanny Gore, MD Bariatric and Board Certified General Surgeon Floyd Memorial Weight Management Center

Learn More at a Free Surgical Weight Loss Seminar March 20, April 17 and May 15 • 6 - 7 pm Floyd Memorial Cancer Center of Indiana Drs. Hutchinson and Gore offer free monthly seminars on the gastric sleeve and banding bariatric surgery options.

Call 1-800-4-SOURCE or visit floydmemorial.com/events to register.

Who is a Candidate?

A BMI of over 35 is considered obese.

To determine your BMI and learn more about bariatric surgery options available at the Floyd Memorial Weight Management Center, visit www.floydmemorial.com/ weightloss and click on the Weight Loss Assessment button.

Candidates for gastric sleeve surgery must meet similar guidelines as those for gastric banding surgery. These include: 4

Julie Hutchinson, MD, and Lanny Gore, MD, bariatric and board certified general surgeons with the Floyd Memorial Weight Management Center, will now be offering gastric sleeve as well as gastric banding surgery. “Gastric banding is a great option for people who are significantly overweight and have failed at more conventional weight loss tactics,” said Dr. Gore. “However, in terms of bariatric surgery, it is the least aggressive option, and therefore not always the best choice for everyone. For this reason, we have begun to offer an alternative known as sleeve gastrectomy, or “gastric sleeve.”

Proven Clinical Results Clinical studies on gastric sleeve patients have shown the following improvements, on average: • 55 percent total excess body weight lost • 56 percent resolution or 37 percent improvement of type 2 diabetes • 43 percent resolution of high cholesterol • 49 percent resolution of high blood pressure • 60 percent resolution of sleep apnea Advantages • Limits the amount of food that can be eaten during a meal

How the Gastric Sleeve Works • Food passes through the digestive tract in the Gastric sleeve surgery is a minimally natural order, allowing vitamins and nutrients invasive laparoscopic procedure. It permanently to be fully absorbed into the body reduces the stomach by approximately 80 percent, limiting the total amount of food that • No postoperative adjustments required • Patients lose an average of 55 percent of can be eaten at one time, so patients feel full their excess weight sooner and stay full longer. As less food is eaten, the body stops storing excess calories How Gastric Banding Works and starts using its fat supply for energy, Gastric banding surgery is also resulting in weight loss. done laparoscopically, and involves During the procedure wrapping a band around the upper part the surgeon creates five of the stomach, dividing it into an small incisions in the upper and lower pouch. The band abdomen for the laparoscope slows the movement of food through camera and instruments, the passageway so that the patient feels then a large portion of the full sooner and longer, allowing them stomach is detached with to consume smaller amounts of food. a special stapling device, The gastric sleeve procedure After the band is placed, the patient removes a large portion of the leaving a thin “sleeve” can follow up with their surgeon as stomach, leaving a thin sleeve about the size of a banana. that holds less food and helps necessary to adjust the band to assist patients eat smaller portions The excised portion of in weight loss. The band is ideal for while still feeling full. stomach is then removed anyone who may need it released or through a small band-aid removed at some point. sized incision in the Patients interested in bariatric abdomen. Most patients surgery should carefully consider both are able to go home after a the advantages of surgery as well as two day hospital stay with the potential risks. Only patients and minimal discomfort, and their surgeon can evaluate these return to normal activities benefits and risks and choose the The gastric band creates an within a few weeks. upper and lower stomach pouch most appropriate surgery. to help patients eat smaller portions of food while still feeling full.

• Individuals who are significantly overweight and have tried other diet and exercise methods without long-term success • Body Mass Index (BMI) of 35 to 39, along with conditions known as comorbidities that are caused or exacerbated by obesity, such as type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, sleep apnea or degenerative joint disease • BMI of 40 or above, without comorbidities

“Good attendance at support classes is key to weight loss success. That’s how the patient can keep up the diet. It reinforces their dieting and exercise behaviors and helps with troubleshooting problems.

Multiple studies have shown a direct correlation between the number of support sessions attended and amount of weight loss.”

Sri Prakash Mokshagundam, MD Board Certified Endocrinologist Floyd Memorial Joslin Diabetes Center Affiliate & Weight Management Center Associate Professor of Medicine Department of Endocrinology, U of L School of Medicine Chief of Endocrinology Louisville VA Medical Center “It was great to see Bill’s hard work pay off and to witness his transformation.

I feel like what we’re doing is making a real difference in people’s lives.

He is an inspiration.”

Martha Truman, BS, MAT Weight Management Program Coordinator Floyd Memorial Weight Management Center Floyd Memorial Weight Management Center’s HMR program offers three convenient options for losing weight and keeping it off: • Decision-Free® Weight Loss Program: Our renowned medically-supervised program, recommended for patients with a significant amount of weight to lose or weight-related health issues.

• Healthy Solutions® Weight Loss Program: Designed by health professionals to maximize quick, healthful weight loss without the need for medical supervision for most people.

• HMR at Home® Weight Loss Program: Our home-based plan that makes losing weight easy and convenient with personalized support and extra savings.

HMR Orientation Sessions:

Monday’s, 6 – 7 pm Floyd Memorial’s Heart and Vascular Center 1850 State Street, New Albany Thursday’s, Noon – 1 pm Floyd Memorial Weight Management Center 2019 State Street, New Albany Call (812) 949-7151 to register.

To find out more about how the HMR diet program can help you, call the Floyd Memorial Weight Management Center at (812) 949-7151, or visit floydmemorial.com/weightloss, where you can also take our online weight loss assessment.

A Total Transformation At his heaviest, Bill Lawson, a six foot two inch tall former Clarksville police officer and SWAT team member, weighed almost 400 pounds, had a 54 inch waist and wore size 4XL shirts. His job had taken its toll on his body, and he had hip and lower back damage along with knee problems. He also suffered from sleep apnea, type 2 diabetes and was taking 15 prescription medications per day. Bill explained, “I have struggled with weight my entire life, but knowing that my weight was causing even more physical problems than I already had, I finally decided to get help.”

After visiting the Floyd Memorial Weight Management Center and speaking with a weight management educator, Bill chose to go on the HMR (Health Management Resources) Healthy Solutions® medically-supervised program. Bill explained, “This plan was ideal for me because of the support from the HMR educators, the accountability and the food selection. My goal was to lose 100 pounds.”

Board certified endocrinologist, Sri Prakash Mokshagundam, MD, explained, “Medical supervision isn’t necessary for everyone who starts the HMR diet program.

But, it’s important for patients like Bill, who are on medications for other conditions, to have active medical management, especially when blood sugar medications are involved.

We don’t want them to become hypoglycemic or have their electrolyte levels drop.”

How it Works According to research, on average, dieters using meal replacements lose and maintain more than three times as much weight loss as those on traditional diets. A meal replacement program provides: • Portion control, which reduces overall calorie intake • Structure, which provides fewer decisions about food choices and helps you stay on the diet and build momentum • Improved overall nutrition by eating healthy, low calorie foods Floyd Memorial Weight Management Center Program Coordinator Martha Truman explains, “Eating low-calorie meals, fruits and vegetables and doing physical activity is a key combination for quick and effective weight loss.”

She added, “Our weekly classes help give patients strategies to stay on track while reinforcing good diet and exercise behaviors.

Patients are able to troubleshoot and draw ideas from each other, as well as share creative recipe ideas. Many veterans come back in to talk to our newer patients and it really makes a difference.”

before

after

Bill Lawson lost 189 pounds in just over one year on the HMR Healthy Solutions® diet.

Dr. Mokshagundam added, “Multiple studies have shown a direct correlation between the number of support sessions attended and amount of weight loss.”

Quick Results After the first phase of the program ended, Bill had lost nearly 70 pounds, his Hemoglobin A1C (blood sugar) was down, and he was off of five prescription medications. He explained, “I chose to repeat Phase 1 until I reached my weight loss goal of 100 pounds, which I exceeded by 19 pounds. I then set an ultimate goal weight of 220 pounds, which meant I had another 77 pounds to lose during Phase 2, the maintenance stage of the program.”

End Result Bill completed the program with a total weight loss of 189 pounds. His blood sugar is normal and he is off all of his diabetes medications, his waist size is 36 to 38 inches and he is now wearing large to extra large shirts.

“It was great to see Bill’s hard work pay off and to witness his transformation.

I feel like what we’re doing is making a real difference in people’s lives. He is an inspiration,” said Martha.

“Worth Every Penny!”

“I am on disability, so watching expenses is extremely important,” said Bill. “The cost of the program and meal replacements was just about the same as what I was spending on groceries for myself. I have actually saved money after being able to stop taking many of the medications I was on. It was worth every penny.”

Bill added, “Losing weight and keeping it off is a lifestyle change. I was limited on the type of exercise I could do because of my knee and hip problems. But, I went from doing no physical activity to burning thousands of calories a week through low or no impact activities and exercise. I feel so much healthier. HMR has changed my life.”

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Obesity and Joint Deterioration “Body weight significantly impacts the health of your joints. Maintaining a lower weight reduces the risk for developing all forms of joint disease.

If you are overweight and suffer from arthritis, even relatively small amounts of weight loss can greatly improve the health and function of your joints.”

Edward Bell, MD Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeon Floyd Memorial Joint Replacement Center

Follow these simple tips to keep your joints healthy: Keep an eye on your weight The heavier you become, the more wear and tear on your joints. Keep your weight in a healthy range to maintain joint health.

Exercise Staying active and getting exercise h elps maintain joint and overall movement.

Low-impact exercise like swimming, yoga, walking, using an elliptical machine and recumbent exercise bikes are especially helpful. Strengthening abdominal core muscles helps you maintain balance.

It can also help you lose weight.

Muscle support Weight training helps build muscle and keeps ligaments strong. However, it is important to always talk to your doctor before attempting weight lifting.

Eat a healthy balanced diet Calcium b uilds strong bones, Vitamin C and antioxidants help reduce the risk of osteoarthritis and Omega-3’s help reduce joint pain and swelling.

“Aquatic therapy is a great option for patients with osteoarthritis. The physical properties of water are ideal for unloading the joints and providing an effective cardiovascular workout without pain.”

Jim Snyder, PT, DPT Physical Therapist and Outreach Therapy Coordinator Floyd Memorial Physical Therapy Charlestown Road

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According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, by 2020 arthritis will gain more new victims than any other disease in America. Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of degenerative joint disease, and appears in over 27 million adults in the United States. The pain and swelling of OA typically leads to a decline in the ability to perform many daily activities, which may eventually result in the need for joint replacement surgery.

Many factors can lead to the development of osteoarthritis, but obesity is the main preventable risk factor. Excess weight causes extra stress and more wear and tear on load-bearing joints including the spine, hips, ankles and knees.

The Link Board certified orthopedic surgeon, Edward Bell, MD, explained, “In obese patients, the cartilage in the load-bearing joints is slowly damaged from the extra weight they must support, and usually goes unnoticed until the ligaments begin to tear. Once this happens, the joint rapidly deteriorates.”

He added, “The excess weight on an overweight individual shifts the body out of a neutral position. The impact on the knee is concentrated on a smaller area than in a normal weight person, leading to the development of osteoarthritis.”

While normal wear and tear can cause OA to develop, joints that bear our weight are the most susceptible because of the force placed on them. Bone spurs form around the joint, and the ligaments and muscles become weaker and more stiff. The more weight that is placed on these joints, the more likely you are to develop OA. There is a 60 percent higher chance for an obese person to develop OA than someone with a healthy weight.

Therefore, losing weight is important in slowing down the progression of OA. Aquatic Therapy Can Help Exercise is necessary to help you lose weight, but the pain can become a vicious cycle for overweight individuals with osteoarthritis. When joint pain limits the ability to exercise, low-impact activities such as swimming, yoga or cycling are recommended.

If you would like more information on managing your knee and hip, call the Floyd Memorial Joint Replacement Center at (812) 948-4396 or take an online knee or hip pain assessment at floydmemorial.com/joint.

normal

arthritic

Floyd Memorial physical therapist, Jim Snyder, PT, DPT, explained how aquatic therapy can help patients with osteoarthritis.

“The physical properties of water can help in multiple ways. The buoyancy of the water decreases the effects of gravity, taking pressure off of the joints and allowing the patient to move more freely with less pressure and pain. Another beneficial property is the temperature. We keep our therapy pool around 94 to 95 degrees, which can decrease the pain and stiffness associated with osteoarthritis.

Also, naturally occurring hydrostatic pressure in the water helps dissipate swelling.”

Jim continued, “We treat many physical therapy patients with a variety of orthopedic and neuromuscular conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and post-operative surgery in our aquatic therapy pool. However, for severe joint problems, conservative treatments like physical therapy and pain medications may not be enough and surgery may be required to improve joint function and relieve pain.”

Weight Loss Impacts Joint Health Weight loss can have a very positive impact on joint health and is a crucial strategy in preventing the progression of osteoarthritis.

Researchers have found that weight control significantly affects the risk of developing knee OA. One major study showed that women who reduced their body mass index by two units (on average 12 to 15 pounds) or more, reduced the odds of developing OA by more than 50 percent. Conversely, the risk of knee OA increased by 35 percent for every 11 pounds gained. Another study found an improved health-related quality of life in people with knee OA who were able to reduce their body weight.

“Even losing a relatively small amount of weight can have a big impact on your joints,” said Dr. Bell.

For more information on aquatic therapy, contact Floyd Memorial Physical Therapy Charlestown Road at (812) 945-3440 or online at floydmemorial.com/rehab.

Free Joint Pain Screening

A Fighting Spirit

Free Bone and Joint Pain Seminar

Beth May has always been a go-getter and is active in many things. She suffers from Graves’ disease, an auto-immune disease of the thyroid, which is often accompanied by rheumatoid arthritis. Beth had developed arthritis in her knees and it had progressed to an extremely painful level. “I was walking like an Oompa Loompa from Willie Wonka’s Chocolate Factory. I couldn’t step onto a stepping stool, clean my house, get on the floor with my seven grandkids, play soccer with my Scottie, Taz or quilt, which is one of my true loves.”

She added, “My energy level was so low because I was in pain. I couldn’t stand for more than a couple of minutes at a time or walk up stairs. That’s not good when all of my kids have stairs in their houses.” She initially tried to control the pain with antiinflammatory medications, but knew that something more needed to be done. She was not willing to give up her active lifestyle.

Saturday, April 27 7:30 – 11 am Floyd Memorial Wound Healing Center Receive free X-rays of the hip or knee and a consultation with an orthopedic surgeon.

You’ll also have the opportunity to meet the team of experts who will work with you every step of the way before and after your surgery, if surgery is required. Registration is required by calling 1-800-4-SOURCE (1-800-476-8723) or online at floydmemorial.com/events.

Tuesday, April 2 and Thursday, May 2 6 – 7 pm

Floyd Memorial’s Main Street Classroom Learn about advanced treatments that may offer dramatic relief of your knee or hip pain.

An orthopedic surgeon and nurse will discuss medications, exercise and joint replacement surgery. Registration is required by calling 1-800-4-SOURCE (1-800-476-8723) or online at floydmemorial.com/events.

If you’d like more information on knee replacement surgery, call Orthopedic/Spine Nurse Navigator Laura Crump, RN, at (812) 948-4396, or visit floydmemorial.com/joint to take our online knee pain assessment.

A Relationship of Trust Beth had met board certified orthopedic surgeon, John Conner, MD, when he was treating her mother, and liked his caring bedside manner and personality. “Dr. Conner really took special care of my mother and we had developed a trusting relationship,” she said.

Dr. Conner explained, “Beth’s X-rays showed that she had severe degenerative joint disease in both knees. Together, we decided that both knees needed to be replaced.”

Double Knee Replacement Beth explained, “I could only do one surgery at a time because of my other medical issues, so I had the first one in April of 2012.

Eight weeks later I had the second knee done.”

For each surgery, Beth was in and out of the hospital in three days then went into an inpatient rehab facility. Dr. Conner explained, “Not every patient needs to go to an inpatient facility for rehab, for many, it’s a personal choice. Having a good attitude has a lot to do with a patient’s recovery. Beth had the

“The pain in my knees robbed me of my life. I was always very active before, and now I have so much more energy and can do the things I love.”

– Beth May

“Having a good attitude has a lot to do with a patient’s recovery. Beth had the determination to work toward her goals and has come through her double knee replacement with flying colors.”

John Conner, MD Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeon Floyd Memorial Joint Replacement Center

determination to work toward her goals and has come through her double knee replacement with flying colors.”

What stood out to Beth most was the outstanding care she received. “My nurses at Floyd Memorial were amazing. They took wonderful care of me and treated me like family. I wouldn’t have surgery anyplace else.

My pain was well managed. I learned quickly that if you don’t hurt, you’ll work harder. They were great with giving me the pain medication consistently and helping me reach daily goals.”

Goal Setting Orthopedic/Spine Nurse Navigator Laura Crump, RN, explained, “Beth had three major goals that got her through rehab. They were to: • Dance at her daughter’s wedding (in pretty shoes) • Play on the floor with her grandkids • Play soccer with her Scottie, Taz Her fighting spirit kept her motivated. Beth was completely invested in her recovery and worked hard to achieve all of her goals. It is inspiring to see patients turn their lives around like she has.”

Beth added, “My husband is so glad to have his wife back, my kids have their mom back and my friends say I’m my old self again.

I’m back to quilting and I’m so thankful that I didn’t have to give up a single thing. If your knees are killing you and you’re ‘sitting’ your life away, get them replaced and get your life back.”

“Beth was completely invested in her recovery and worked hard to achieve all of her goals. It is inspiring to see patients turn their lives around like she has.”

Laura Crump, RN Orthopedic/Spine Nurse Navigator Floyd Memorial Joint Replacement Center

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Ensuring that Cancer Patients do More than Just Survive

Artificial Total Disc Replacement Surgery Helps Young Mom Mistina Andres, wife and mother of two, didn’t understand why she was having neck pain, weakness and twitching in her hands and arms. She was having trouble grasping objects without dropping them. Mistina was scared and her husband urged her to go to the Floyd Memorial Emergency Department to find out what was happening.

Finding the Problem Floyd Memorial orthopedic and spine surgeon, Mohammad E. Majd, MD, discovered that she had disc herniation and stenosis of her C5 and C6 vertebrae from her MRI. Dr. Majd felt she was a perfect candidate for artificial total disc replacement surgery. He explained, “Artificial disc replacement surgery is great for young people like Mistina, who are still very active and want to preserve their range of motion.”

ProDisc-C in place

Flexion/Extension

Lateral Bending

Socket

Ball

Artificial Cervical Total Disc Replacement Surgery involves replacing the herniated disc with a ball and socket disc device (ProDisc-C).

This device preserves motion in the spine.

A First for Floyd Memorial On September 20, 2012, Dr. Majd performed Floyd Memorial Hospital’s first artificial cervical total disc replacement surgery on Mistina. The ProDisc-C (for cervical spine) was approved by the FDA in August of 2007. The disc is manufactured by Depuy-Synthes companies of Johnson & Johnson, and over 60,000 have been used in the U.S. and Europe. The procedure is done in other parts of the country and has now come to the Midwest, with Floyd Memorial performing the first in-hospital surgery in this region.

The surgery involves entering from the front of the neck, removing the herniated disc, decompressing the spinal cord and nerve roots

and replacing the disc with a ball and socket disc device. The ProDisc-C total disc replacement has been shown to reduce pain, preserve motion and improve function while also easing degenerative disc disease on the adjacent disc.

This device has also proven to provide a wider range of motion than the commonly used anterior cervical disc decompression and spinal fusion procedure, which joins the two vertebrae with a titanium plate. While still an effective surgery for relieving pain, a major problem with spinal fusion is that the adjacent discs tend to develop extra deterioration. With this new procedure, the artificial total disc replacement device has shown to not have added strain on the adjacent discs.

“As soon as I woke up from surgery, the pain in my neck and arm was gone,” said Mistina. “Dr. Majd and the staff at Floyd Memorial provided me with excellent care.

It’s amazing how much we take our health for granted. I am grateful to be able to take care of myself and my family again.”

Ideal candidates are between 18 and 60 years of age with symptomatic cervical or lumbar single level degenerative disc disease, and have ineffectively tried conservative treatments such as physical therapy, rehabilitation and pain management for at least six months.

This surgery is becoming more available to patients as insurance companies are starting to cover the cost of the procedure.

“Artificial total disc replacement surgery is great for young people like Mistina, who are still very active and want to preserve their range of motion.”

Mohammad E. Majd, MD Orthopedic and Spine Surgeon Floyd Memorial Spine Center Floyd Memorial Medical Group - Orthopedics

“It’s amazing how much we take our health for granted.

I am grateful to be able to take care of myself and my family again.”

– Mistina Andres 8

Cancer patients deserve more than to just be able to say they’ve survived. After battling for their life so valiantly, they should have every opportunity to live it to the very fullest.

But sadly, many cancer survivors feel lost and alone once their treatment concludes.

After undergoing such harsh treatments for months and even years on end, there is often very little organized help for cancer patients to return to normal life. Now, the Floyd Memorial Cancer Center of Indiana has become the first cancer center in the region to offer patients the comprehensive rehabilitation services of the nationally renowned Survivorship Training and Rehabilitation (STAR) cancer rehabilitation program.

Helping Cancer Patients Get Back to Life Rehabilitation programs are commonplace for patients undergoing joint replacement surgery or recovering from a stroke or major cardiac surgery. In fact, it’s second nature to assume that someone undergoing one of these events would be offered the healing and restorative treatments that rehabilitation therapy can give. But why aren’t cancer survivors offered the same services?

That’s the question Dr. Julie Silver, a physiatrist and professor of physical medicine and rehabilitation at Harvard Medical School in Boston, asked after surviving a harrowing battle with breast cancer in 2003. Dr. Silver, 38 years old and the mother of three young children, had dedicated her life to helping others heal, but when faced with her own recovery, found herself in uncharted territory.

Unlike others who survive major illnesses, cancer survivors are often told to simply get back to living after finishing their treatments, with no formal help as to how to go about it.

“Studies show that more than a third of cancer patients have related physical or mental health problems that jeopardize their recovery and quality of life. The STAR Program® gives us the tools to recognize and address those problems before they become a major problem. It also ensures that our patients have every chance at living their lives to the fullest both during and after treatment.”

Tom Russell, PT, DPT Director, Floyd Memorial Rehabilitation Services

“Cancer rehabilitation programs are a relatively new concept, but their effectiveness is beyond doubt.

Rehab helps patients endure their treatments, regain stamina and overcome painful side effects and emotional challenges. It is quickly becoming the standard of care in cancer treatment.”

Ajay Kandra, MD Board Certified Medical Oncologist/ Hematologist Floyd Memorial Cancer Center of Indiana As Dr. Silver explained, “If a patient had a stroke, you would never tell them, ‘This is your new normal-if you want to get better, figure it out on your own.’” But cancer survivors are released from treatment with essentially those instructions every day. So Dr. Silver founded the STAR Program®, an evidence-based model of cancer rehab that has been rolled out in progressive facilities nationwide. The program uses speciallytrained caregivers, including nurses, physicians, dietitians, social workers, physical, occupational, massage and speech therapists, and even yoga instructors, to help patients work through the slew of physical and emotional issues that come along with cancer treatment and recovery.

A Personalized Plan for Full Recovery Ajay Kandra, MD, a board certified medical oncologist/hematologist at the Floyd Memorial Cancer Center of Indiana, explained how the program can benefit patients. “Cancer treatment can have debilitating side effects and symptoms. The STAR Program gives us the

tools to help create a personalized plan for our patients to help increase their strength and energy, alleviate pain, improve activity, mood, appetite and enhance their quality of life. There is growing evidence that exercise and therapy during and after treatment helps improve patient outcomes and increase quality of life.

This program will help us identify issues before they become a major problem and ensure that our patients’ every need is met.”

Tom Russell, PT, DPT, director of rehabilitation services at Floyd Memorial, agrees that rehabilitation should be an integral component of cancer treatment. “Rehabilitation ensures that patients can not only heal as well as possible, but can function at their optimal level. That’s what every patients deserves, whether their cancer is currently being treated, cured, in remission or is a chronic disease.”

Specially Certified STAR Caregivers “Cancer rehab is different for every patient based on their individual needs,” Russell explained. “Our providers undergo STAR Program certification to identify patient needs as they arise and work together to coordinate a specialized plan to tackle them. That can range from physical and occupational therapy to address fatigue, decreased endurance and coordination problems, dietary counseling for loss of appetite, speech therapy for swallowing issues, mental health assistance for depression and anxiety, to massage and yoga for overall wellness. It’s a body, mind and soul approach that is all too often lacking in cancer treatment.”

“Treating cancer isn’t just about saving a patient’s life, it’s also about making sure they can live it to the fullest too. And that’s what cancer rehabilitation is all about,” added Dr. Kandra.

Symptoms that can be managed with cancer rehabilitation STAR Program rehabilitation can help patients manage and overcome many cancer-related conditions and symptoms. The following list covers many of the most commonly addressed issues: • Fatigue/weakness • Musculoskeletal pain • Neuropathic (nerve) pain • Lymphedema • Post-surgery pain • Chemotherapy-induced neuropathy

• Balance/gait problems/ history of falls • Difficulties with daily living • Cognitive problems • Difficulty sleeping • Scar tissue problems

• Range of motion difficulty • Swallowing problems • Speech problems • Loss of appetite/weight loss • Shortness of breath • Emotional problems such as depression or anxiety

For more information about services available at the Floyd Memorial Cancer Center of Indiana, visit floydmemorial.com/cancer or call (812) 945-4000.

For more information about rehabilitation services available through Floyd Memorial’s Rehabilitation Services Department, visit floydmemorial.com/rehab or call (812) 948-7416.

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MARCH/APRIL 2013 Calendar of Events

To register, call 1-800-4-SOURCE (1-800-476-8723), or visit www.floydmemorial.com, unless another number is listed.

*

• A ll events are free and meet in Floyd Memorial’s Paris Health Education Center unless otherwise stated.

SCREENINGS Sponsored by:

Free Blood Pressure Screenings 1:30 - 3 pm every other Friday in the main lobby March 15, 29, April 12, 26, May 10 and 24

Stroke & Aneurysm Vascular Screenings Every Tuesday & Thursday by appointment Stroke & Aneurysm Vascular Screenings are offered by the Floyd Memorial Heart & Vascular Center. They include non-invasive screening for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm, Peripheral Artery Disease and Carotid Artery Disease. The cost is $49 for all three. To make an appointment, call 1-800-4-SOURCE. Free Take 2 for Heart and Stroke Screenings Thursday, April 4, May 2 and June 6 by appointment One-on-one screening with a registered nurse, full lipid cholesterol panel, blood pressure, blood sugar, A1C and body mass index.

Registration required.

Free Screenings at the New Albany YMCA Tuesday, April 9, 9 - 11 am Free sleep apnea screenings and education will be offered as well as injury screenings and education.

Free Joint Pain Screening Saturday, April 27, 7:30 - 11 am Floyd Memorial Wound Healing Center Floyd Memorial will be hosting a free joint pain screening of knees and hips featuring X-rays and consultation with an orthopedic surgeon. You’ll also get an opportunity to meet the team of experts who will work with you every step of the way before and after your surgery if it is required. Space is limited and appointments are required.

Free Skin Cancer Screening at the New Albany YMCA Thursday, May 9, 9 - 11 am Free skin cancer screenings by local, certified dermatologists. To register, call (812) 283-9622.

HEALTH EDUCATION Cancer Prevention Study-3 (CPS-3) Enrollment Tuesday, March 19, 3 - 7 pm Wednesday, March 20, 7 - 10:30 am Floyd Memorial’s Green Valley Road Lobby Visit cps3kyin.org to schedule your enrollment appointment. The American Cancer Society invites men and women between the ages of 30 and 65 who have never personally been diagnosed with cancer to join this historic study. The purpose of CPS-3 is to better understand the lifestyle, behavioral, environmental and genetic factors that cause or prevent cancer. The goal is to enroll at least 300,000 adults from various racial/ ethnic backgrounds. Enrollment requires two steps and will involve the following: • After scheduling your enrollment appointment, you will receive a confirmation e-mail with instructions to complete your first, most comprehensive survey. This survey will ask you questions regarding medications you are taking, family history of cancer, lifestyle and other behaviors.

• At your appointment, you will be asked to sign an informed consent form, complete a brief survey, as well as provide a waist circumference measurement and a small blood sample. Your appointment should last approximately 20 to 30 minutes.

• Following enrollment, you will receive surveys at home every few years to update your information.

For more information about CPS-3, please visit cancer.org/cps3 or call toll-free 1-888-604-5888.

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Kidney Disease Treatment Options Classes Wednesday, March 20, April 17 and May 15, 10 am - Noon Learn about the types of treatment for kidney disease including hemodialysis (home and in-center), peritoneal dialysis for home and kidney transplantation. Call (502) 895-7650.

Free Pre-Diabetes Class in Honor of National Diabetes Alert Day Tuesday, March 26, 2 - 3 pm Joslin Diabetes Center Affiliate • 2019 State Street Learn how to reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes and set goals for living healthier.

Class is normally $25, but is being offered free of charge in honor of National Diabetes Alert Day on March 26. Space is limited, so register early.

Free Bone & Joint Pain Seminar Tuesday, April 2 and Thursday, May 2, 6 - 7 pm Floyd Memorial Hospital Main Street Classroom Learn about advanced treatments that may offer dramatic relief of your knee or hip pain. An orthopedic surgeon and nurse will discuss medications, exercise and joint replacement surgery. Registration required.

American Red Cross Blood Drive Thursday, May 30, Noon - 5 pm Donate blood and give the gift of life.

Stroke Clinic Southern Indiana Rehab Hospital offers a free stroke clinic for anyone who has experienced a stroke. The survivor is screened by therapists, case managers, nurses and physicians who can review their ongoing recovery and make recommendations as needed. Contact: (812) 941-6120 or (812) 941-6154.

Free Skin Cancer Screening Thursday, May 23, 2 - 4 pm Floyd Memorial Cancer Center of Indiana Free skin cancer screenings by local, certified dermatologists. Registration required.

Free Osteoporosis Screenings The pDXA screening is a scan of the bone density of the heel. The screenings take place in the Women’s Imaging Center and are offered by appointment only. To register, call (812) 949-5570.

Lung Cancer Screenings CT scanning of the lungs is a simple, quick radiological test that is capable of detecting lung cancer at a very early stage, when treatment can be most successful. If you are a current or past smoker age 50 or older, or have been exposed to heavy second-hand smoke, this screening could save your life. Physician referral not required.

Cost is $150, which includes a results consultation immediately after your scan with a physician radiologist. To register, call (812) 949-5570.

OFFERED BY

WEIGHT MANAGEMENT CENTER HMR Informational Seminars If you want to lose anywhere from 10 to 200 pounds, HMR can help. Free informational seminars are available on Mondays and Thursdays. Call (812) 949-7151 to schedule.

The program offers several diet options including a medically supervised plan, a moderate diet option and an at-home program.

Surgical Weight Loss Informational Seminar Wednesday, March 20, April 17 and May 15, 6 - 7 pm Floyd Memorial Cancer Center of Indiana Interested in bariatric surgery? You have options.

Learn about gastric banding and gastric sleeve surgery and the support services offered by the Floyd Memorial Weight Management Center at this free informational seminar presented by our board certified surgeons.

OFFERED BY

FLOYD MEMORIAL CANCER CENTER OF INDIANA Look Good…Feel Better Monday, March 25, April 22 and Tuesday, May 28, 1 pm Floyd Memorial Cancer Center of Indiana This American Cancer Society class provides volunteer cosmetologists who teach make-up techniques and ways to disguise hair loss to women who are battling cancer. Registration deadline is Thursday, March 21, April 18 and May 23. To register, call (502) 560-6045.

SUPPORT GROUPS All support groups meet in Floyd Memorial’s Paris Health Education Center unless otherwise stated.

Alzheimer’s Support Group Third Thursday of each month 2 - 3:30 pm and 6 - 7:30 pm Contact: Sadie Powell, (812) 948-1311

La Leche League of Southern Indiana Third Monday of each month, 6:30 - 8 pm Breastfeeding support and information Contact: Lisa, (812) 941-1960

Amputees in Motion Support Group Fourth Wednesday of each month, 7 pm Meets at Southern Indiana Rehab Hospital Contact: Brittany Bley, (502) 724-4490

Mended Hearts Support Group Fourth Monday of each month, 6 pm Mended Hearts is a national and community-based non-profit organization that has been offering the gift of hope to heart disease patients, their families and caregivers. Our support groups help people understand that there can be a rich, rewarding life after heart disease diagnosis.

Contact: Jackie Lattis, (502) 819-2085 for meeting location

Bariatric Surgery Support Group First Monday of each month, 6 - 7 pm Contact: Floyd Memorial Weight Management Center, (812) 949-7151 Balancing Life with Diabetes Support Group Tuesday, March 19, 10 - 11 am Topic: Round Table Discussion Tuesday, April 16, 10 - 11 am Topic: Walking for Fitness Tuesday, May 21, 10 - 11 am Topic: Cooking Demo with Dietitians Meets at Floyd Memorial Joslin Diabetes Center Affiliate, 2019 State Street Registration required Brain Injury Support Group Third Thursday of each month, 7 pm Meets at Southern Indiana Rehab Hospital Contact: Beverly Setree, (502) 819-2542 Breast Cancer Support Group Second Thursday of every other month, 7 pm Contact: Pat Kasse, (812) 948-1215 Cancer Patient/Caregiver Support Group First & third Thursday of each month, 6:45 - 8 pm Floyd Memorial Cancer Center of Indiana Contact: Helen, (812) 945-4000 ext. 6231

Multiple Sclerosis Support Group Fourth Monday of each month, 6 pm Contact: Michael Quinn, (502) 797-5878 Parkinson’s Support Group First Tuesday of each month, 6:30 - 7:30 pm Contact: Richard Mattox, (812) 256-5424 Stroke Support Group Second Tuesday of each month, 1 pm Meets at Southern Indiana Rehab Hospital Contact: Deb Strickler, CTRS, or Tori Vinson, (812) 941-6154 Tobacco Cessation Community Support Group Every Tuesday, 6 - 7 pm Meets at Vance Center off State Street Contact: Floyd County Tobacco Prevention and Cessation, (812) 945-3400 Together for Breast Cancer Survival Men’s Caregiver Support Group Fourth Tuesday of each month, 6:30 pm Floyd Memorial Cancer Center of Indiana Contact: Doug Drake, (812) 945-4393 or www.cosurvivors.org

Gluten Free Support Group Fourth Tuesday of each month, 6:30 pm Contact: Jennie Olmstead, (812) 945-4500

OFFERED BY

JOSLIN DIABETES CENTER The Floyd Memorial Joslin Diabetes Center Affiliate offers on-going education classes so patients can keep their condition in check. Call (812) 949-5700 for information.

Balance and Control Program designed for individuals looking to get their diabetes under control, new to diabetes or new to insulin. Covered by most insurance plans.

To register, call (812) 949-5700.

Diabetes Refresher Course Program helps patients set goals for healthy management of their diabetes. Highlights include: what’s new in diabetes, understanding the numbers, counting carbohydrates, latest treatment options, evaluating old goals and setting new ones. Covered by most insurance plans. To register, call (812) 949-5700.

Pre-Diabetes Class If you have pre-diabetes, or are overweight and 45 or older, you are at high risk of developing type-2 diabetes. Class is designed to help determine what changes are needed, and set goals for living healthier. Class is self-pay and costs $25. To register, call (812) 949-5700.

FLOYD MEMORIAL BIRTHING CENTER

OFFERED BY

All Birthing Center classes are held in the Floyd Memorial Paris Health Education Center.

Meet the Midwife Wednesday, March 20, 6:30 - 7:30 pm Babies R US 4623 Shelbyville Road, Louisville, KY Carla Layne, ARNP, CNM, will discuss services a certified nurse midwife provides and will walk you through the birthing process.

New Family Fundamentals: Midwives, Doulas and Dads Wednesday, March 27, April 24 and May 22, 6 - 7 pm Meet certified nurse midwife, Carla Layne, ARNP, CNM, and learn how a midwife can help during pregnancy, labor and delivery. Dads can discover father fundamentals with special guest, Jerry Geller. Plus, a doula will be introduced and will discuss how doulas can provide education and support for both parents.

Registration required.

Prenatal Class Thursday, April 4 - May 9, 7 - 9 pm (6 week series) For the expectant mom and dad or other support person. Taught by several of our highly skilled obstetrical nurses, this free six-week session should be taken at the beginning or middle of pregnancy. Registration required.

Prepared Childbirth Class Saturday, April 20 and 27, 8:30 am - 12:30 pm (2-part series) Wednesday, May 22 – June 26, 6:30 - 8:30 pm (6 week series) Cost - $30 per couple. These classes discuss the physical preparation and education needed for a successful delivery. Learn relaxation techniques using a variety of methods, as well as tips for pregnancy fitness including physical therapy.

Take during the middle of pregnancy.

Registration required.

Sibling Class Saturday, May 4, 10:30 am - 12:30 pm This free class is for soon-to-be new brothers and sisters, ages 3 to 11, and their parents.

Children will be shown how to diaper and hold a baby (doll), and tour the Birthing Center where they get to listen to the baby’s heartbeat. Registration required.

Breastfeeding Class Thursday, May 16, 6:30 - 9 pm This free class will help you and your newborn have a successful breastfeeding experience.

Discussion will include helpful hints and practical guidelines, as well as common misconceptions and barriers. Registration required.

Babysavers Class Thursday, May 23, 6:30 - 9 pm This class is taught by certified CPR instructors and designed to teach new parents infant CPR. Cost is $10 per couple for materials.

Registration required.

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