MV-IGH No 99 May14

in good May 2014 • Issue 99

Meet Hamilton Orthopaedics’ Russell LaFrance Page 4

Check out our Calendar of Health Events Page 2

priceless

Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

Keys to s s e n i p p a H

Get your body, mind in order See Page 3

Golden Years Edition

Thinking big about shrimp Page 11 Get ‘In Good Health’ at home.

See coupon inside

Check your thyroid See Page 20

Visit our interactive online Take misery out of menopause version at Page 5 mvhealth.com

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CALENDAR of

HEALTH EVENTS

Got a health-related activity or event that you would like publicized? Call Lou Sorendo at 315-749-7070 or email lou@cnymail.com.

Mondays

Women’s support therapy group to meet A women’s support therapy group meets from 5:30-7 p.m. Mondays at 1 Ellinwood Court, New Hartford.

Topics of discussion include family issues, stress, depression, anger, relationships and grief.

Cynthia Davis, who has 20 years of experience leading groups, will facilitate the meetings.

Group size will be limited to protect anonymity. To register, call 736-1231, 794-2454 or email cindycsw@ yahoo.com.

There will be a nominal fee to register for these groups.

Wednesdays/Thursdays

Overeaters Anonymous plans meetings

Is food a problem for you? Do you eat when you’re not hungry? Do you binge, purge or restrict? Is your weight affecting your life?

Overeaters Anonymous meets from 5:30-6:30 p.m. every Wednesday in Room 101 (first floor) at Rome Memorial Hospital, 1500 James St., Rome.

It also meets from 7-8 p.m. every Thursday at Oneida Baptist Church, 242 Main St., Oneida. Participants are asked to use the rear door.

There are no dues, fees, weigh-ins or diets.

For more information, call OA at 315-468-1588 or visit oa.org.

April 29

Anniversary to benefit Friends of Arc Foundation Delmonico’s Italian Steakhouse, 147 N. Genesee St., Utica, will celebrate its 12th anniversary from 4:30-8:30 p.m.

April 29 to benefit the Friends of the Arc Foundation.

Fifty percent of food and beverage receipts will be donated to the foundation, which is the fundraising arm of The Arc, Oneida-Lewis Chapter.

For reserved seating, call 315-7322300 or 315-272-1529.

The Arc, Oneida-Lewis Chapter, NYSARC is a nonprofit human services agency which provides advocacy and services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Oneida and Lewis counties.

April 29

Grief Survivors group to meet Grief Survivors will meet from 6-7:30 p.m. April 29 at The Good News Center, 10475 Cosby Manor Road, Utica.

Drop-ins are welcome. The group meets every other Tuesday.

This is a faith-based support group

Continued on Page 15

You don’t have to go far to get world-class orthopaedic care

Hamilton Orthopaedic Surgery & Sports Medicine has offices in Hamilton, New Hartford, and Rome Total knee, hip, shoulder, and ankle replacements Sports medicine including, but not limited to: Ultrasound guided steroid injections • Plasma Rich Protein injections • labrum repair ACL reconstruction • meniscus repair • hip, shoulder, and elbow arthroscopy Foot and ankle procedures Total revisions for worn out or troublesome prostheses Treatment of spine disease and injuries including, but not limited to: Spinal stenosis • disc herniation • spinal fractures due to osteoporosis

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IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • May 2014

And for your convenience — Sports Medicine Walk-In Clinics Monday mornings at all three locations.

No appointment necessary.

85 College St., Hamilton 1 Oxford Rd., New Hartford 91 Perimeter Rd., Rome

Hamilton – 8:00 am New Hartford – 8:30 am Rome – 9:00 am

315-824-1250 www.hamiltonorthopedic.com

Golden Years The Balanced Body

By Deb Dittner

Living a Healthy Life Increase longevity by following the fundamentals

L

iving a healthy life is what gives us the edge as we age.

As we approach later years, there is a need to be observant with any symptoms that may develop and to take action when necessary.

But first we want to continue to care for our body by following the following tips.

• Breathe: Most people breathe in a shallow manner most of the time but especially when stressed. It’s important to breathe deeply from the belly slowly expanding the chest, filling your lungs with air.

Release the breath Dittner slowly. Taking a deep breath several times a day will help circulation and decrease stress.

• Sleep: Even as we age, we need to get anywhere from 7-9 hours of sleep nightly.

At least an hour before bedtime, turn off the TV, the computer and cell phone. These devices are stimulating and will not allow for a restful night’s sleep.

Avoid going to bed on a full stomach as this can cause sleep issues and can create difficulty with fat burning.

Consider relaxation techniques before bed such as a warm Epsom salt bath with therapeutic grade essential oils such as lavender.

A relaxing cup of tea and a book or magazine can round out the routine for

overnight will create easier digestibility. Nuts can also be toasted in the oven for a healthy snack.

Brazil nuts will also provide selenium that may increase immunity and lower the risk of cancer.

Our furry friends

relaxation and proper rest.

• Movement: Everyone definitely needs to keep moving as we age.

Aim for 30 minutes most days of the week and vary your workouts. A change in practice prevents boredom.

This also allows for different challenges to other muscle groups and improvement for the cardiovascular system.

Lifting weights approximately two times per week helps to tone the body and preserve muscle. Maintaining muscle is very important as it keeps unwanted fat away and elevates your metabolic rate.

Walking daily will also increase the metabolic rate and can reduce the risk of heart attack.

Squash stress

• Stress reduction: Stress elevates

Oneida, Herkimer, Madison and Otsego counties in good A monthly newspaper published

Health MV’s Healthcare Newspaper

by Local News, Inc. 20,000 copies distributed. To request home delivery ($15 per year), call 315-749-7070.

In Good Health is published 12 times a year by Local News, Inc. © 2014 by Local News, Inc. All rights reserved. Mailing Address: 4 Riverside Drive, Suite 251, Utica, NY 13502 • Phone: 315-749-7070 Email: lou@cnymail.com Editor & Publisher: Wagner Dotto • Associate Editor: Lou Sorendo Contributing Writers: Patricia Malin, Barbara Pierce, Kristen Raab, Malissa Allen, Mary Stevenson, Deb Dittner, Amylynn Pastorella, Mary Christopher Advertising: Donna Kimbrell, Jasmine Maldonado Layout & Design: Chris Crocker Office Manager: Laura Beckwith No material may be reproduced in whole or in part from this publication without the express written permission of the publisher. The information in this publication is intended to complement—not to take the place of—the recommendations of your health provider.

cortisol, which can create excess fat specifically around the middle.

An increase in stress hormones can increase cravings and overeating, and cause hormonal imbalances. Breathing techniques and movement can help reduce stress.

• Eat with the seasons: Eating foods that are in season places the body in proper alignment.

Eating heavier soups/stews (warming) in winter and light fruits/ smoothies (cooling) in summer follows the body’s rhythm.

• Eat high-fiber foods: Fiber aids in better blood sugar levels and may protect against certain cancers. Fiber (soluble) comes from fruits, legumes, barley, and oats. Additional fiber (insoluble) comes from vegetables, whole grains, and bran.

• Go nuts: Eating nuts (walnuts, almonds, macadamia, cashews, Brazil) has been connected with a decrease in certain types of heart disease. Purchase fresh nuts and store in an airtight jar.

Soaking nuts in purified water

• Pets: Owning a pet, specifically a dog or cat, will lower blood pressure and raise feel-good brain chemicals.

Pet owners are also known to live longer, have fewer heart attacks, and with the responsibility of caring for another, create a feeling of being needed.

Dogs can also be part of daily movement as they love to go on frequent walks.

• Eat clean: Fruits and vegetables should be washed in pure, clean water before eating to remove any toxins.

Purchasing items from the Clean 15/Dirty Dozen listing (www.ewg.org and also an app on iPhones) will also be great for healthier eating.

Eating greens daily will add important enzymes and nutrients to the diet plus help to balance the typical Standard American Diet with more alkalinity.

Starting each day with clean protein will also provide energy, increase mental awareness, and decrease mid-morning cravings. Spices and herbs add variety and taste.

Cinnamon aids in blood sugar level balance; curcumin and turmeric are anti-inflammatory and also aid the liver, and garlic improves circulation.

Hydration with pure water is very important with age. Aim for half of your body weight in ounces daily.

• Journal: A daily diary keeps an account of what you are eating, physical movement, encourages mindfulness, and gives you the platform to show gratitude. Gratitude brings joy and laughter into your life and those around you.

• Deborah Dittner is a family nurse practitioner specializing in reiki and holistic nutrition. Check out her website at www.The-Balanced-Body. com.

Cancer center warns of phone scam

F

axton St. Luke’s Healthcare in Utica recently received information that unknown subjects are calling area residents soliciting donations on behalf of The Regional Cancer Center.

The Regional Cancer Center is not conducting any telephone fundraisers.

Anyone calling on behalf of or claiming to be from the cancer center soliciting donations is running a scam.

FSLH would like to remind people not to provide any personal inforMay 2014 •

mation over the phone or be sure to verify with the organization that it is soliciting funds through a telephone campaign.

It is recommended that if you receive one of these calls to hang up and not pursue the phone call any further.

If the calls continue, notify your local police agency.

If you have any questions, call 315624-5600.

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

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MVHS joins initiative to honor end-of-life care wishes

T

he Mohawk Valley Health System, the parent company of Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare and St. Elizabeth Medical Center in Utica, has joined with Hospice & Palliative Care in New Hartford to support a new effort by the Institute for Healthcare Improvement to better prepare healthcare providers to receive and respect patients’ wishes about end-oflife care.

The initiative, “The Conversation Project,” launched nationwide in 2012.

The Conversation Project, cofounded by Pulitzer Prize winner Ellen Goodman and developed in collaboration with IHI, is a public campaign with the goal of having every person’s end-of-life wishes expressed and respected.

“We are committed to providing the best possible care for our patients throughout their lives, including the end of their lives,” said Kevin Mathews, medical director of palliative care services for the MVHS. “We have a strong commitment to our patients and their families, and we want to provide care that is consistent with their wishes.

As a participant, MVHS has committed to being “conversation ready” within one year by developing and piloting processes and tools to encourage people to express their wishes and, in some instances, to break the silence between patient and provider.

By encouraging families to have these discussions prior to serious illnesses, the “conversation ready team” hopes to alleviate some of the stress families experience during a time of healthcare crisis.

As people express their wishes, it’s critical that healthcare systems have the staff and processes to hear and respect what’s being said. IHI calls this being “conversation ready” and works closely with organizations as well as prominent end-of-life experts to package proven methods and programs with new tools and strategies to achieve this goal.

To assist other organizations in getting “conversation ready,” Evelyn Kropp, palliative care navigator for MVHS, has put together a presentation called “How to Get the Best Care Possible When Serious Illness Strikes” and will provide free presentations to local organizations.

For more information or to contact Kropp, call 315-624-5555 or email ekropp@mvnhealth.com

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Meet

Your Doctor

By Patricia J. Malin

Dr. Russell LaFrance

Russell LaFrance is cut from the same cloth as many of his patients at Hamilton Orthopaedics Surgery & Sports Medicine. He grew up in a small town and was active in school sports. He accepted a fellowship at Hamilton Orthopaedics and came to this family-friendly, sports-minded community last September. He spoke with Mohawk Valley In Good Health senior staff writer Patricia J. Malin about his livelihood.

Q.: Why did you decide to practice in the Mohawk Valley?

A.: My wife, Jessica, and I are both from the Ithaca area, plus it was a good opportunity to come to work for this group. My cousin, Rick LaFrance, has been a physical therapist here for close to 10 years, so that’s how I knew about this practice.

Q.: What specific disorders do you treat?

A.: I mostly specialize in sports medicine and surgery on hips and knees, for example, ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) tears in the knee, rotator cuff injuries in the shoulder, wear and tear of the tendons and hip dislocations.

Q.: You decided to go for your degree in medicine rather than become a doctor of orthopedics. Why did you decide to specialize in orthopedics?

A.: There are only a small number of schools for orthopedic medicine. I was able to get my degree in medicine and then get a fellowship in orthopedics at Kerlan-Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic in California. While I was there, I treated professional athletes from the Los Angeles Dodgers, Lakers, Kings and Anaheim Ducks. I’ve always been interested in medicine and active in sports.

When I was in high school, medicine and patient care was in the back of my mind and I considered going into physical therapy. When I was a senior in college, I got to go on rotations with doctors and changed my mind about my specialty. My father was a football coach at a small, Class D high school and I saw a lot of sports injuries while I was growing up. It was natural for me to play sports.

I played football and golf and wrestled in high school. I wrestled while at the University of Scranton (149 pounds) and played spring football at Cornell.

Luckily, I never had any severe injuries, but I didn’t want a career as an athlete. My siblings are also interested in medicine. My younger brother will start medical school next year and my sister, Tammy, is going to school for physical therapy.

Q.: What is the most challenging aspect of your work?

A.: The hours I spend at my practice versus the time I spend with my family.

Depending on my patient load, I might work 50 to 60 hours a week. I think I kind of expected it before I became a doctor, but you really don’t know about it until you do become a doctor. There is some stress involved in my job and my wife hears about it. Jessica really bears a lot of the responsibility for taking care of our children.

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • May 2014

Q.: What is the most fulfilling aspect of your job?

A.: Helping my patients recover from injuries. I love the practice. This is a nice, small town to live in. The most positive thing is that I get to interact with people from all walks of life, all ages and different backgrounds. Some

of my patients are the faculty, staff and employees at Colgate University. Its athletes have their own doctors and trainers on campus. I’m also one of the team doctors for Utica College athletes.

Q.: How do you keep up with the latest research? How much time do you devote to current research?

A.: I’m interested in vitamin D and its impact on our immune system. We see kids who have fractures and with vitamin D deficiency.

Current thought among researchers is that a chronic deficiency of vitamin D leads to weaker bones. This is something that can also apply to seniors. There is a lack of sunlight, especially in this part of the country. Kids spend so much time in front of computers and when they’re outside, their clothing covers them up, so they might need to consider taking vitamin D supplements.

I worked on three research projects while I did my fellowship in California and I’m working now on two research papers related to vitamin D and

Continued on Page 19

Lifelines Age: 35 Hometown: Groton Current residence: Hamilton Education: Bachelor of Science degree in biological sciences, Cornell University, cum laude, 1998-2002; medical degree, University at Buffalo School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, cum laude, 2003-2007 Affiliations: American Association of Sports Medicine Awards: Carl M. Harris Award for Outstanding Patient Care and Education at Kerlan-Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic Family: Wife: Jessica; children, Alexis, 6; Kristen, 4; Andrew, 2 Hobbies: Hiking, fishing, golf, running, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing

Golden Years

Mastering Menopause Change of life doesn’t have to be miserable experience Kristen Raab

T

he word menopause evokes visions of sweating, unhappy women in many people’s minds.

While hot flashes, insomnia and depression are potential symptoms of menopause, there are ways to deal with the symptoms and view the transition to a new stage of life in a positive manner.

Perimenopause may start while a woman is still in her 40s, and it may last about four years. During this transitional period, the body is beginning to change. A woman may begin having irregular periods and other symptoms at this time, but she is not yet considered menopausal.

Carney A woman officially enters menopause after a full year without menstruation. Menopause can happen naturally, or it can be surgically induced after a woman has a hysterectomy. Other possible causes include chemotherapy or treatment for endometriosis.

According to Brenda Carney, a family nurse practitioner at the Adirondack Community Physicians Boonville Medical Office, the mean average age for menopause is 51-52.

During menopause, shifting hormones such as estrogen can cause a variety of unpleasant symptoms. About 85 percent of women will experience hot flashes. The prevalence of hot flashes is often linked with insomnia.

Migraines may intensify. In addition,

about 20 percent of women have depression during this time.

In addition, hormone changes cause the bones to lose density. Women should take calcium supplements and do weight-bearing exercises, Carney noted.

Squats are an example of effective weight-bearing exercise. However, it is difficult to make bones increase in density after age 30, she said.

“Women in their 20s should make sure to do plenty of heel-step exercises. These exercises include jumping jacks, running and tennis,” she said.

“Engaging in these activities prior to age 30 increases bone density, which is necessary for healthy bones and will produce a long healthy skeletal life.”

Reducing symptoms

If a woman is experiencing the unpleasant symptoms of perimenopause or menopause, there are steps she can take to reduce their occurrence. For sleep problems, a primary care physician may prescribe antidepressants.

The medication may help women rest better.

First, a diet assessment is necessary. Carney says to follow the cardiac diet, and remove all unhealthy white foods: sugar, potatoes, bread, and rice.

Replace white bread with stone ground wheat bread. Limit red meat to twice a week, and consume a maximum of 3 ounces at a time. Baked or broiled skinless chicken and fish are healthy options, and canola and olive oils are good choices for cooking.

Adding a few walnuts or almonds to salads is a great way to incorporate omega fatty acids, but remember to consume nuts in moderation.

Next, women must maintain proper hydration. Water is the ideal hydrator, but it is OK to drink carbonated water that has no calories, sodium or sugar.

Another option is to put fresh lemon or lime in the water to add fla-

vor. Carney advises, “Treat water like medicine.” She recommends drinking three bottles of water a day. Water will “keep your cells alive and feeling more vibrant.”

Other healthy lifestyle choices can go a long way for women in this stage of life. While drinking one alcoholic beverage a day is acceptable, additional consumption is not recommended. Fast food should be avoided, and sodium intake should be limited.

Women should work toward healthy cholesterol and blood pressure levels. In addition, Carney suggests shutting down technological devices early enough to get a good night’s sleep.

Holistic approach

Fitness and exercise are essential parts of a healthy lifestyle for everyone, but it is also important to keep your mind active. “Women should make sure they are feeding their mind and spirit, and challenging their minds,” she said.

Cognitive exercises are a great way to challenge the mind. Carney suggests doing puzzles, rhymes, multiplication tables and tasks with the non-dominant hand to remain sharp.

Women can look at this time as a “transitioning experience,” Carney said.

“Embracing the next stage of life is a positive approach to change. By the time a woman reaches menopausal age, she’s generally beyond the emotional ups and downs of the different phases of life,” Carney said.

“It can be a great time in a wom-

an’s life,” she added.

With increased “emotional maturity,” a woman often times has more self-esteem, Carney said.

She suggests subscribing to menopause@everydayliving.com, which has a lot of information for women in this stage of life.

Carney stresses the importance of cultivating good relationships with the people in one’s life, including grandchildren. Reward yourself, and maintain a happy life by being involved in the community.

“We look at it as a bad time, but in all reality it can be a positive time for women,” Carney said.

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May 2014 •

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

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Page 5

Golden Years

Unleash the travel bug Not just a journey; it’s a state of mind

By Barbara Pierce

“

I love to travel, to see new places, learn new things. But it’s not so easy for me to get around and to put up with the hardships that come with out-of-the-way places,” says 73-year-old Sharon Anderson. “I don’t have the stamina I used to, and I get anxious if I get too far from a civilized toilet.”

Clearly some journeys are not as attractive in later life; maybe that’s why cruise ships are overflowing with older folks. But cruising doesn’t appeal to everyone.

“Some of us wish to avoid bobbing about in a metal container packed with several thousand passengers,” says author Rick Kimball in “65 Things to do When You Retire: Travel.”

“Hermetically sealed poop-mobiles” is how TV personality Anthony Bourdain disdainfully refers to cruise ships.

Travel is a state of mind rather than physical movement, suggests Kimball.

It’s not how far you get that counts.

It’s the stimulus of the new. “The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes but in having new eyes,” said Marcel Proust 100 years ago.

Visits to unfamiliar spots in our area can give us fresh perspectives; reach out to the unexpected, see things with new eyes. “There is no end to adventures we can have if only we seek them with our eyes open,” said Jawharial Nehru.

So travel, take a journey by seeing things in the Mohawk Valley with new eyes. “The danger is staying still, stultifying, and inviting death before it is due,” says Kimball.

Fort Stanwix in Rome serves as a popular destination point for visitors.

The Mohawk Valley has much to explore, much to excite us, and give us a fresh perspective. There are places rich in history. There is ethnic diversity, sporting events, festivals, parades, unique businesses, and classes in things you never thought about before.

For those interested in history, the Erie Canal Village in Rome is an outdoor living museum.

“Erie Canal Village is where the first shovelful of earth was turned on July 4, 1817 to begin Clinton’s Ditch. It also uses the only working waste weir

on the enlarged canal to hold or move water from the structure,” said Melody Milewski, museum director.

Experience a recreated 19th century village built near the location of the original Erie Canal. Imagine how life was in the past when you see the tavern, blacksmith shop, homes, school and church. A museum of vehicles and a history of cheese making are also on the site.

History in the making

Other historical sites worth investigating: Explore Indian artifacts at

The Boilermaker Road Race in Utica has become world renown and draws top talent from all over the globe.

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IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • May 2014

the Oneida Nation’s Shakowi Cultural Center in Oneida. Relive one of the bloodiest battles of the Revolution at the Oriskany Battlefield. View life as it might have been at a lonely outpost in 1778 at Fort Stanwix National Monument in Rome. Investigate the Remington Firearms Museum in Ilion.

For sports fans, don’t miss the halls of fame in the Mohawk Valley, devoted to baseball, boxing, distance running, soccer, and twirling.

The Utica Roadrunners established the National Distance Running Hall of Fame. They also help support the Boilermaker Road Race, which is one of the largest races in the United States.

The Boilermaker — scheduled for July 13 — draws over 11,000 participants from all different countries.

“Fans of the Boilermaker Road Race line up to cheer on the runners as they pass. Many have cheered at the same spot for decades,” said Mary MacEnroe, assistant to the director at the hall of fame.

Festivals and parades are also popular in the Mohawk Valley. With its diverse cultural background, Utica distinguishes itself from other areas.

The Great American Irish Festival is a leading organization in the area, and the July event at the Herkimer County Fairgrounds has plenty to see, hear, and experience.

Ethnic markets are intriguing to experience. Markets specializing in Polish and Italian foods have long been staples in Utica’s neighborhoods.

Pulaski Meat Market has made West Utica home for nearly 40 years. “We have many unusual things, but for us it’s usual,” said Barbara Bulawa.

“Pierogi, kielbasa, cold cuts. We make everything here, make everything fresh daily.”

Rich in diversity

As the area becomes more ethnically diverse, more ethnic markets are popping up. Lucky Mey’s on Oneida Street is dedicated to Asian foods.

There are markets owned by immigrants from Bosnia, Burma, Somalia and many other countries.

Local restaurants reflect the cultural diversity, including Italian, Polish, Greek, Vietnamese, Bosnian, Puerto Rican, and Dominican. A visit to one of these restaurants is an interesting adventure.

The Herkimer Farmers’ Market is another fascinating local journey.

“We have several organically grown produce vendors, as well as conventionally grown produce,” said owner Cat Macera. “I specialize in using as many local items as possible.”

The market offers in-season produce and fruit, fresh breads and pastries, a great variety of local cheese, eggs, beef, pork, chicken, and duck.

Also featured are flowers, plants, jams and jellies, and crafts.

The Matt Brewing Company of Utica, founded in 1888, is a major attraction for visitors from all over who come for tours and samples.

Golden Years Between You and Me

By Barbara Pierce

Let go of stress

“

You’re stressed out,” my doctor said to explain my physical ailment.

She was the third doctor who told me I was stressed out. I’ve always thought of myself as a low stress person. Maybe I’m not. Maybe she’s right and I need to figure out a way to be less stressed.

My friend Amy is always so calm and peaceful despite all the stressful things she deals with every day. How does she stay so calm?

She has been learning about Buddhism, and she puts into practice what she has learned. So I started learning from her.

What Buddhism teaches helps you on your path in life, so it can be called a way of life, though some call it a religion.

Being present in the here and now is an important thing I need to learn.

Do not dwell in the past; do not worry about the future; concentrate on the Pierce present moment.

“Relax, dwell peacefully in the present moment,” is how Buddhist monk Thich Nhat Hanh described it to Oprah Winfrey in an interview. “It is essential to keep peace in yourself.”

Keep peace in yourself: Easy to say, but very hard to do.

The basic concepts that help you keep peace in yourself are called the four noble truths: • The first truth is that there is suffering. Life includes pain, getting old, disease, and death. And there is psychological suffering. Suffering cannot be denied.

• The second truth is that there is a reason for suffering. Suffering is caused by our attachment to things, by our cravings. We suffer when we expect other people to conform to our expectations, when we do not get something we want, etc. Rather than constantly struggling to get what you want, try to modify your wanting. Wanting/attachments are what deprive us of contentment and happiness.

• The third truth is that there is a way out of suffering. If we give up our attachments and our useless cravings and learn to live each moment in the present, not dwelling in the past or worrying about the future, then we will not suffer.

• The fourth truth is that the way out of suffering is to follow the eightfold path. The eight-fold path is the teachings of Buddha, which include having the right view, right thought, right behavior, right mindfulness, right speech, right effort, and right meditation.

Stop fretting

This is what I especially need to learn; I need to stop worrying about what might happen in the future and what did happen in the past. Instead

I should focus on what is going on right now. Appreciate every moment.

Passionately be present in the here and now.

If I am stressed, I need to stop and identify what is bothering me. Am I attached to something and not able to step back? What can I do to change the situation? I need to do what I can to change the situation then step back. Or, if I can do nothing about the situation, why be unhappy about something I can do nothing about?

So I’ve been trying to live in the moment. In the morning, instead of gulping down my coffee and inhaling my cereal while I scan the paper, I focus on each sip of coffee and each bite of food. Instead of grumbling when my grandson’s teacher calls me to pick him up from school because he is sick and she can’t get his mother, I am grateful for the chance to spend time with this wonderful little boy.

Instead of going for my walk and having thoughts race through my mind, I try to concentrate on the wild flowers beside the road, the smell of the newly cut grass, the beautiful clouds. I try to be grateful for all that I see, for the fact that I can walk and I can see.

I’ve lost a few friends to death lately. It helps to hear from my friend Amy that she believes death is not the end of life. Life doesn’t end; it goes on in a different form, she believes. It is the end of this incarnation. Our soul will remain and attach to a new body.

Grief and loss are universal. Life is impermanent. The more you think about the impermanence of life, the more you will be prepared for your death and the death of another.

Gratitude is important. You begin to have gratitude for every moment with a loved one. For every breath you take.

Regarding grieving, you will be done grieving when you’re done, Amy believes. If you’re grieving, you can’t control that. You can only control your actions.

Meditation is important in Buddhism, as part of being present in the moment. I haven’t mastered that. But here is a meditation I do like to say: “May I be safe; may I be well; may I have joy; may I be free. May you be safe; may you be well; may you have joy; may you be free. May all be safe; may all be well; may all have joy; may all be free.”

• Barbara Pierce is a retired licensed clinical social worker with many years’ experience in helping people. If you would like to purchase a copy of her book “If I’m so Fantastic, Why am I Still Single?” contact her at BarbaraPierce06@yahoo.com, or contact her if you have any concerns you would like her to address.

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May 2014 •

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

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Page 7

Golden Years Guffawing through the Golden Years Geezers and Geezerettes: Take time for a healthy chortle!

By Barbara Pierce

“

People take growing older too seriously,” said Mary Elizabeth Burgess. “I want to shed light on the ‘Golden Years’ and make people passionate about life again.”

Burgess has published a book: “101 Poems and Philosophies for Geezers and Geezerettes.”

The book is a guide for seniors who are looking to still enjoy life. Using her personal poems and mini-essays to highlight the irony of growing older, Burgess pokes fun at arthritis, dementia and the classic stereotypes that accompany growing older.

Aiming to create an entertaining read and one that people can relate to, “101 Poems and Philosophies for Geezers and Geezerettes” showcases the outrageous fun readers can have in retirement, while also sharing the gift of laughter and courage for those suffering from the effects of aging.

The book is a mix of thoughts about the author’s own experiences in facing the challenges of aging, sometimes serious, sometimes poking fun, and some important advice.

“In a serious vein, some pieces present hope for the end-of-life issues and, indeed, for the ‘beyond,’” Burgess said.

The poems in which Burgess pokes fun at herself are the easiest to relate to and to like. As the one in which she describes herself: “Maybe in the mid-November of my life I’ve still got moisture inside, the juice to Burgess keep life flowing a few more years, endorphins sparking.”

Or her suggested “Inventions for Oldsters”: Airbags for walkers, hearing aids that glow in the dark, sweetly scented

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IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • May 2014

Beano, and multi-colored Depends.

And the cause of erectile dysfunction, which she describes as grandchildren. “Buy Viagra, pop it nightly, and pray.”

And this: “‘All of women’s troubles come from one thing,’ my husband-to-be informs me. ‘You don’t know how to let gas.’ And that’s when I learned to fart, finally.”

A good chuckle

Who can’t identify with this: “You will probably realize that being a widow is not all bad the first time you don’t get cold-shocked by ceramic because he forgot to lower the seat.”

The book jacket says, “The neat thing about getting old is that you can flirt outrageously with anyone you want, and they don’t take you seriously.” However, the book doesn’t actually have much to say about flirting or about dating and male-female relations in the golden years.

Burgess has one poem called “Requiem for a Marriage,” which, if you read between the lines of this lengthy verse, must refer to her own marriage. But later she talks about being a widow. And she mentions the first names of several men, significant in her life in some way.

Mixed in with the humor and

the musing on her own experiences are serious pieces of advice. Like “Advice from the Alzheimer’s Association,” and “Let the Good Times Roll,” with advice to walk twice a day in sunshine or in rain, eat broccoli and blueberries, get seven to nine hours of sleep, wear bright lipstick, and once in a while, roll out the barrel.

The pain one faces as a senior is described in “Phases”: “Suffering is inevitable, some say, but misery is optional. Summon faith and hope, courage, resilience, patience, perhaps even some elegance. Go boldly. Exit smiling.”

“Things to Do Before I Die” will make everyone think “Ride in a convertible with the top down … Walk in the rain without an umbrella, my face turned to the heavens. Dig in the dirt again. Swim with no clothes on … Tumble in the circus and walk the high wire. Go to a Bruce Springsteen concert. Own and drive a pink Cadillac convertible.”

A retired reading and learning specialist, Burgess has also authored a study skills manual, a children’s book and a book of poems and tales of her two sons. She has been awarded prizes for her poetry and for a short story.

“101 Poems and Philosophies for Geezers and Geezerettes” is available at Amazon.com, Authorhouse.com and BarnesandNoble.com.

Weed use up, cocaine use down, U.S. report finds Review covered 2000 to 2010, so doesn’t reflect suspected increase in heroin use

A

mericans’ use of cocaine fell by half from 2006 to 2010, but marijuana use increased by more than 30 percent during that time, according to a new report.

The spike in pot use may be due to an increase in the number of people who said they use the drug on a daily or near-daily basis, said the researchers, whose study covered drug trends from 2000 to 2010.

Heroin use remained fairly stable during the decade, while methamphetamine use rose sharply during the first half of the decade and then fell.

Americans spent $100 billion a year on cocaine, heroin, marijuana and methamphetamine — or a total of $1 trillion over the decade, the RAND Drug Policy Research Center report estimated.

“Having credible estimates of the number of heavy drug users and

how much they spend is critical for evaluating policies, making decisions about treatment funding and understanding the drug revenues going to criminal organizations,” study lead author Beau Kilmer, co-director of the RAND Drug Policy Research Center, said in a RAND news release.

While the overall amount spent per year on drugs remained the same from 2000 to 2010, spending patterns for certain drugs shifted. Much more was spent on cocaine than on marijuana in 2000, but that had reversed by 2010.

Because the report did not examine trends after 2010, it doesn’t include recent reported increases in heroin use, or the effects of marijuana legalization in Colorado and Washington. The report also didn’t look at the reasons behind changes in drug use and did not assess the effectiveness of drug-control strategies.

Golden Years

Under the Influence For older drivers, one drink may be one too many

By Barbara Pierce

Y

ou may have had only one beer, but if you are over 55, that one beer may make you a dangerous driver.

What you suspect is true. You can’t party like you once could. Older adults who are social drinkers can become impaired by alcohol after only one or two drinks and not realize it, recent research at the University of Kentucky and University of Florida found.

The study compared driving abilities of a group of younger persons aged 25-35 with a group of people aged 55-70.

Though neither age group drank enough alcohol to put them over the legal driving limit, a blood alcohol level of 0.08, just one drink affected the driving abilities of the older group. In younger adults, the alcohol conSmith sumption did not affect their driving skills.

Small amounts of alcohol affect older adults far more than younger adults, according to researcher Sara Jo Nixon. “Older adults thought they were fine when they weren’t,” she said. “You really can’t rely on asking them, ‘Are you all right to drive?’ even with lower amounts of alcohol.

This may be particularly true for older adults.”

Older adults did worse on the driving test than younger people. Yet, when asked if they felt drunk, the older drinkers said they felt fine. They were not aware of how much they were impaired.

Older adults had impairments in

both attention and performance with even a relatively small amount of alcohol — about two to three drinks — compared to younger people.

And the older adults were less able to perceive their deficits than younger people.

“Nobody — no matter how old — should drink and drive,” said Jeffrey T. Smith of the STOP-DWI New York in Montgomery County. “Not even one drink.”

The mission of the STOP-DWI Program of New York state is to reduce the number of persons killed or injured in alcohol and other drug-related crashes.

The nonprofit foundation works with local communities to develop and implement innovative approaches to deal with drinking and/or drug-impaired drivers.

Not even one

“Zero tolerance,” Smith stressed.

“Don’t drive after you drink. If you’re going to have a drink away from home — even just one drink — have a plan of how you will get home. Use a designated driver, a taxi, or a friend. There’s always another way to get home.”

The state legal level is a 0.08 blood-alcohol content. This is the level of alcohol in the blood stream. As the number of alcoholic beverages consumed over a period of time increases, so does the BAC. With a level of 0.08, virtually everyone, including habitual drinkers, experiences some degree of impairment in their driving skills, says STOP-DWI. A driver with a 0.08 level can be up to 50 times more likely to die in a crash than if he was completely sober.

There are charts that help you calculate how many drinks you can have within a certain period of time and keep your level under the legal limit. But these charts are absolutely not correct, said Smith. There are so many other variables that affect one’s BAC: Age, weight, sleep patterns, what you have eaten, and your history of drinking.

Another important thing for older people to be aware of is that prescription

medication can impair your driving, added Smith. Many of the medications that people commonly take can impair your ability to drive. The best way to determine this is to ask your doctor or pharmacist about the medications you are taking.

Another goal of the STOP-DWI program is to make prevention of driving intoxicated a public priority.

Prevention is also a priority of the Center for Family Life and Recovery of Oneida County. “We do prevention

work,” said Samantha Madderom, prevention specialist. April was Alcohol Awareness Month. We did community presentations and we do them on an ongoing basis.”

Madderom said the rate of persons over 50 with alcoholism has increased greatly in Oneida County.

If resources or counseling is needed, the Center for Family Life and Recovery will help. It can be reached at 315-733-1709.

Women in their 60s more likely to develop Alzheimer’s Disease than breast cancer

A

woman’s estimated lifetime risk of developing Alzheimer’s at age 65 is one in six, compared with nearly one in 11 for a man. As real a concern as breast cancer is to women’s health, women in their 60s are about twice as likely to develop Alzheimer’s over the rest of their lives as they are to develop breast cancer. The information is part of the findings in a recent Alzheimer’s Association’s study, “2014 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures.”

“There is a disparity in how Alzheimer’s disease impacts women in this country,” said Catherine James, chief

executive officer for the Alzheimer’s Association, Central New York Chapter.

“This disease is continuing to grow in New York state, a place where women make up 51.5 percent of the population.

Alzheimer’s isn’t just stealing memories and lives, but it’s taking our sisters, mothers, aunts and grandmothers.”

Adding to women’s Alzheimer’s burden, there are 2.5 times as many women than men providing intensive “on-duty” care 24 hours for someone living with Alzheimer’s disease. Among caregivers who feel isolated, women are much more likely than men to link isolation with feeling depressed (17 percent

of women vs. 2 percent of men).

The strain of caring for someone with Alzheimer’s is also felt in the workplace. Among caregivers who have been employed while they were also caregiving: • 20 percent of women vs. 3 percent of men went from working full time to working part time while acting as a caregiver.

• 18 percent of women vs. 11 percent of men took a leave of absence • 11 percent of women vs. 5 percent of men gave up work entirely • 10 percent of women vs. 5 percent of men lost job benefits May 2014 •

There are more than 5 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s disease, including 380,000 in New York state but Alzheimer’s has far reaching effects that can plague entire families.

There are 1.01 million Alzheimer’s caregivers in New York providing 1.15 billion hours of unpaid care annually, valued at more than $14.3 billion.

The full text of the Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures can be viewed at www.alz.org. The full report will also appear in the March 2014 issue of Alzheimer’s & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association (Volume 10, Issue 2).

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

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Page 9

Letter to the Editor Big Brothers Big Sisters say thank you

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n behalf of the children, families, volunteers and staff of Big Brother Big Sisters of Oneida, Herkimer and Madison counties, we would like to thank everyone who helped make the 32nd Annual Bowl For Kids’ Sake a success.

Over 300 bowlers participated in the bowlathon, which was held recently at Pin-O-Rama Lanes in Utica, King Pin Lanes in Rome and at State Bowling Center in Ilion. They raised $40,000 to benefit the local Big Brothers Big Sisters program.

We would like to thank our event sponsor NBT Bank, as well as our major sponsors Northern Safety, Adirondack Financial Services and Stewart’s Shops for their commitment to the children in the BBBS program.

The local Big Brothers Big Sisters is in need of caring, adult mentors to become Bigs in the program, which serves children aged 6-14 who are from single-parent homes or who reside with a grandparent or guardian.

For more information about becoming a Big Brother or Big Sister to a local child in need, call 315-797-4080.

FSLH’s 2014 Stomp Out Cancer Telethon raises more than $88,000 The 16th annual Stomp Out Cancer Telethon raised more than $88,000 recently, according to The Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare Foundation and The Regional Cancer Center. The telethon was broadcast live from The Regional Cancer Center at FSLH on WKTV NewsChannel 2. “The support of this community is amazing,” said Cynthia Brandreth, chairwoman of the annual fundraising event.

“There is no doubt that what is being done at The Regional Cancer Center is touching the lives of thousands and will continue to do so for generations to come.” Above, Kristen Copeland of WKTV, left, stands with Brandreth as she presents a check to The Regional Cancer Center at the telethon. Dollars raised through this year’s telethon will help to renovate the outpatient infusion unit to create a healing environment for patients.

Sincerely, Julie Fatata Chair Bowl For Kids’ Sake committee

Health Briefs Breakfast slated to honor cancer survivors

O

n June 1, cancer survivors from the Mohawk Valley as well as their family and friends are invited to gather with employees, medical staff and volunteers from Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare’s Regional Cancer Center at the 27th annual National Cancer Survivors Day. The breakfast will take place at Hart’s Hill Inn, 135 Clinton St., Whitesboro, with doors opening at 9 a.m. Cancer survivors are free and are allowed to bring one guest at the cost of $8 per guest.

Reservations are required and can be made by emailing cancerinfo@mvnhealth.com or calling 315-624-HOPE (4673).

Provide your name, address, phone number and guest’s name. Checks for $8 for guests should be made payable to The Regional Cancer Center and mailed to: The Regional Cancer Center Program Office, Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare, 1676 Sunset Ave., Utica, NY 13502.

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The Smart Woman Award is presented annually at the Rome Hospital Foundation Fashion Show. The six previous recipients of the award are, from left, Julie Grow Denton, Mary Davis, Gretchen Sprock, Sally Hinman, Mary Carmel Wolf and Maureen Nash.

Rome Hospital Foundation thinks spring with fashion show

T

he Rome Hospital Foundation Fashion Show, presented by Mohawk Valley Women’s Health Associates, a leader of women’s health services in the area, will be held May 2 at The Beeches Inn and Conference Center, Rome.

Cocktail hour begins at 6 p.m. and models take to the catwalk at 7 p.m.

Maternity and wedding fashions have been added to the spectrum of spring

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • May 2014

and summer fashions provided by area retailers that will be on display on the runway.

Prior to the runway event, the seventh annual Smart Woman Award will be presented to this year’s recipient.

The award, created to recognize outstanding women in the community, is presented annually at the fashion show.

Individual tickets can be purchased

for $45, or tables of 10 can be reserved for $400.

Proceeds from the fashion show are used to support women’s health services at Rome Memorial Hospital.

Reservations are required and can be made by contacting the Rome Hospital Foundation Office at 315-338-7181.

SmartBites

By Anne Palumbo

The skinny on healthy eating

Why shrimp are a nutritious catch

More than 500,000 eligible New Yorkers age 60+ get their SNAP benefit. Do you?

W

hen it comes to seafood, we love our shrimp. From shrimp cocktail to scampi to kabobs, these curled crustaceans are America’s most widely consumed seafood.

But, wait. Aren’t shrimp high in cholesterol? Yes, they are: an average serving can amount to a full day’s allotment for some people. However, much like nutrient-dense eggs, the benefits of eating shrimp typically outweigh the drawbacks.

Let’s look at why those in the know — including the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics—say yes to shrimp, even for those with elevated cholesterol.

To begin, shrimp are an excellent source of low-calorie protein. A typical serving (around six shrimp) supplies about 25 grams of protein for a mere 135 calories. For the average adult, that amounts to nearly half of your daily needs.

Protein, as many know, is a workhorse nutrient that’s essential for tissue repair and muscle building.

Shrimp also serve up a healthy dose of selenium, an antioxidant mineral that plays an important role in preventing cell damage from free radicals. Growing evidence suggests a possible link between selenium intake and reduced risk of certain cancers, including lung, bladder, colorectal and prostate.

To top things off: Brains love shrimp! Not only are shrimp rich in omega-3s, which can keep the mind agile and protect against Alzheimer’s disease, but they also brim with vitamin B12—a vitamin that may ward off depression. Our bodies need this important B vitamin to make blood cells and maintain a healthy nervous system.

OK, back to cholesterol and why shrimp are no longer considered taboo for lots of us watching our intake.

While eating shrimp does indeed raise cholesterol levels, studies have shown that shrimp boost the good (HDL) cholesterol slightly more than the bad (LDL). Go HDL! What’s more, shrimp — in contrast to most other foods high in cholesterol — are super low in fat, with almost no saturated fat at all. Because saturated fats raise bad cholesterol levels more than dietary cholesterol itself, they’re the ones to watch out for.

The bottom line? Shrimp, enjoyed in moderation and prepared in a healthy manner, can be part of heart-healthy diet.

Call your Nutrition Outreach and Education Program (NOEP) Coordinator today to find out if you or someone you know may be eligible for SNAP. It’s free and confidential.

In Herkimer County Contact NOEP at Catholic Charities of Herkimer County 315-894-9917, ext. 235 somewhat high sodium content, rinsing with plain water helps to remove some of the sodium. Choose spices other than salt to boost flavor of shrimp.

Roman-Style Shrimp with Mint Adapted from Mark Bittman Serves 4 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 3 - 4 garlic cloves, coarsely chopped 4 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 28-ounce can plum tomatoes, chopped, with their juice) 2 - 3 teaspoons red pepper flakes (optional) Coarse black pepper, to taste 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined 1 cup chopped fresh mint or 2 tablespoons or more dried mint Goat cheese, crumbled, for garnish (optional)

HERKIMER FARMERS MARKET Opening June 2nd through October 13th 1 PM to 5 PM

Support Local, Eat Well, Live Well See our events at: www.herkimerfarmersmarket.com We accept SNAP (Formerly Food Stamps) For any questions Call Cat Macera at 315-895-0138 or email to: cat@herkimerfarmersmarket.com

Heat olive oil in large, deep skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until just brown, about 3 minutes.

Add the tomatoes.

Turn the heat to medium-high and bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add red pepper flakes and black pepper, to taste.

Add the shrimp and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are all pink, about 5 to 10 minutes. Stir in the mint.

Serve with crusty bread or over wholewheat pasta. Garnish with goat cheese, a relatively low-salt cheese.

Correction: Oops! We forgot the star ingredient of last-month’s Pea Guacamole: 1 16-ounce bag frozen peas.

Helpful tips:

Farmed or wild-caught? Domestic or imported? If you want to minimize your risk of exposure to unwanted contaminants in shrimp, check out the latest guidelines issued by the Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch (seafoodwatch.org) and follow those.

Fresh shrimp should look translucent and moist with no black edges or spots; frozen shrimp should not have ice crystals (a sign that the shrimp were thawed and re-frozen at some point).

Since shrimp naturally have a

This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

Prepared by a project of Hunger Solutions New York, USDA//FNS, and NYSOTDA.

Anne Palumbo is a lifestyle columnist, food guru, and seasoned cook, who has perfected the art of preparing nutritious, calorie-conscious dishes.

She is hungry for your questions and comments about SmartBites, so be in touch with Anne at avpalumbo@aol.com.

Rome Memorial Hospital helps to promote literacy one book at a time

Employees and medical staff of Rome Memorial Hospital raised $535 that was used to purchase 226 third-grade level books to support the Rome City School District mobile library initiative. The hospital is donating the books to the Rome City School District as part of a larger donation from the Rome Area Chamber of Commerce’s Education Committee. Celebrating the event are, from left, Michael J. Manuel, chairman of the Rome Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors; Jeffrey P. Simons, superintendent of the Rome City School District; Lee G. Saltzgaber, vice president/chief medical officer, Rome Memorial Hospital and member of the education committee; and Deborah A. Grogan, chairperson of the Rome Area Chamber of Commerce Education Committee.

May 2014 •

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

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Page 11

Local b’day girl says: In lieu of gifts, give to charity

T

hirteen-year-old New Hartford resident Kiana Kennedy decided that instead of gifts for her birthday, she would donate to charity to help other children.

Kennedy recently held a birthday party at Cavallo’s Restaurant in New Hartford where friends and family in attendance were Kennedy asked to bring donations to Upstate Cerebral Palsy, the charity of the birthday girl’s choice this year.

This is the second year that Kennedy has decided to collect donations for UCP in lieu of birthday gifts.

Through her giving nature and the generosity of her friends, UCP children’s programs received a total of $1,200.

Health Briefs Women at the Well to gather Women at the Well will meet from 6:30–8 p.m. May 27 at The Good News Center, 10475 Cosby Manor Road, Utica.

The faith-based group meets on the last Tuesday of each month. Drop-ins are welcome.

For more information, contact Tanya at 315-735-6210, tanya@TheGoodNewsCenter.org or visit www.

TheGoodNewsCenter.org.

LFH Employee Breakfast Club supports fund Little Falls Hospital offers an incentive program for employees that also benefits the hospital.

LFH’s Breakfast Club honors those employees who make a contribution of $100 or more to the hospital’s annual fund.

This year’s Breakfast Club was held at the Beardslee Castle in Little Falls.

Due to employees’ dedication, support and commitment, $16,000 has been contributed to LFH’s Development Fund, said Kate Reese, director of community relations and development.

Market your business in Mohawk Valley In Good Health!

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Page 12

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Shown from left are St. Elizabeth Medical Center Volunteer Director Grace DeFazio Bouse, Helen Kennerknecht, Patricia Fletcher and President/CEO Scott H. Perra.

St. E’s honors its volunteers

S

t. Elizabeth Medical Center recently named Patricia Fletcher of Washington Mills volunteer of the year.

Helen Kennerknecht of New Hartford received the St. Elizabeth Guild’s Eleanor Nelson Award, named for an active, former guild member who passed away many years ago.

The two top volunteers were announced at the medical center’s annual volunteer breakfast recently where special recognition pins were awarded to 47 people who have each logged from 100 to 46,000 hours of volunteer service.

Barb Tocco, day habilitation director, Arc Oneida-Lewis Chapter on Arnold Avenue, was the guest speaker.

The event’s theme was “Volunteers Make a World of Difference.”

“The medical center volunteers provide us with a great example of what people do to help their neighbors and this organization,” said Scott H. Perra, president/CEO. “Those who

give of their time and talents perform many tasks that we may not otherwise be able to provide. With the many challenges in healthcare today, St. Elizabeth’s volunteers are invaluable.”

Fletcher has been a volunteer for 19 years and has performed over 3,700 hours of service to the medical center.

She volunteers in the quality management department, where she maintains credentialing files and initiates files for new staff members and physicians.

She is also a member of SEMC’s Patient and Family Advisory Council, the Professional Advisory Committee for St. Elizabeth Home Care and has served on the SEMC Foundation’s Lights of Love remembrance service and candle-lighting planning committees.

In addition to her time at St. Elizabeth, Fletcher also volunteers with Hospice and Abraham House.

She was previously an employee of the medical center for over 35 years,

and served as director of nursing.” She has four grown children, 12 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Kennerknecht has volunteered at SEMC for more than 23 years, accumulating over 7,346 hours of service.

She has been active in the guild bargain shop, the fashion show, the Pillow Ladies group, volunteer office, country store and Christmas bazaar.

She also made seven dollhouses and dressed many dolls for various guild fundraising events.

Kennerknecht was a licensed practical nurse at the former Utica State Hospital for 35 years, is a member of St. John the Evangelist Church and a recipient of the Mother Lavender Award.

She is a violinist who played with the Utica Symphony Orchestra, the Yesterday Senior Ensemble and is a member of the Utica Chamber Orchestra.

Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare and St. Elizabeth Medical Center are affiliates under the Mohawk Valley Health System.

Too many young teens still getting pregnant: CDC

D

espite a drop in teen birth rates in recent years, too many girls under 18 are still getting pregnant, U.S. health officials said in April.

Even though births to teens aged 15 to 17 have declined, a quarter of teen births occur in this age group — nearly 1,700 a week, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

“There have been noted declines

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • May 2014

in births to teens, and that’s good news,” Ileana Arias, principal deputy director of the CDC, said during a news conference.

“However, we can’t be complacent when we hear about these declines.

We still need to make more progress in reducing health disparities and the public health burden related to teen pregnancies and births. Younger teens still account for one in four teen births,” she said.

Arias noted that pregnancy and birth can interfere with finishing high school and can lead to sacrificing education, career and income.

“The young teen years are a critical time when a teen, especially a young woman, could jeopardize her future if she cannot complete high school or go to college,” she said.

Young fathers may also have to limit their education and defer their plans, Arias said.

Lab-grown vaginas, noses offer new options

The Social Ask Security Office Column provided by the local Social Security Office

Regenerative surgery takes a leap forward, two studies show

D

octors have successfully implanted laboratory-grown vaginas into four teenage girls suffering from a rare birth defect, creating new organs with feel and function comparable to that of a “natural” vagina, a new study reports.

Another research team is reporting the first successful nose reconstruction surgery using laboratory-grown cartilage.

In both cases, doctors harvested the patients’ own cells and used them to create new tissue that was then grafted back onto the body.

The two studies, published online April 11 in The Lancet, show how years of research into tissue engineering for skin grafts is being put to practical use for other purposes, said physician Samuel Lin, an associate professor of surgery at Harvard Medical School and site director of Harvard’s plastic surgery residency training program.

“Perhaps now we’re just seeing the translational products of all that research that has been going on for years,” Lin said.

One study involved girls aged 13 to 18 who were born with Mayer-Rokitansky-Kuster-Hauser syndrome, a rare genetic condition in which the vagina and uterus are underdeveloped or absent.

Harvesting cells

Researchers harvested muscle cells and epithelial cells from a biopsy (surgically removed tissue sample) of each girl’s genitals. Epithelial cells line body cavities and are able to generate or release fluid and detect sensation.

In a process that took three to five weeks, doctors grew the cells into larger tissue cultures that were then attached to a biodegradable “scaffold” hand-sewn into the shape of a vagina. The scaffolds were tailor-made to fit each patient and are made of the same type of material used in surgical sutures.

Once the new vaginas were ready, surgeons created a canal in each patient’s pelvis and stitched the scaffold

to the girls’ reproductive structures. The girls’ bodies proceeded to form nerves and blood vessels into the grafts, and gradually replaced the engineered scaffold with a new, permanent organ.

“It’s just like when you’re having plastic surgery and they place a skin graft on you to replace damaged tissue,” said physician and senior author Anthony Atala, director of the Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center’s Institute for Regenerative Medicine in Winston-Salem, N.C. “The graft will re-grow blood vessels and nerves,” he said.

In the other study, Swiss scientists harvested nasal cartilage cells from five patients, aged 76 to 88, who had severe defects of their noses following skin cancer surgery.

During skin cancer surgery, doctors often have to cut away parts of cartilage to remove a tumor. Surgeons usually reconstruct the nose using cartilage from the person’s ear or ribs, but the procedure can be very invasive and painful.

The researchers at the University of Basel in Switzerland grew the cartilage cells into new tissue 40 times the size of the original biopsy in one month, and then used that tissue to rebuild the noses of the patients.

One year after the reconstruction, all five patients were satisfied with their ability to breathe as well as with the appearance of their nose. None reported any side effects.

Doctors from the research team said the same technology could be used to engineer cartilage for reconstruction of eyelids, ears and knees.

Poison centers issue warning about electronic cigarettes, liquid nicotine

T

he American Association of Poison Control Centers and the experts at America’s 55 poison centers are urging the public, especially parents, to use caution when using e-cigarette devices and highly concentrated liquid nicotine and to keep them up and away from children, according to John Fiegel, AAPCC interim executive director.

Poison centers are reporting a recent uptick in calls about exposures to e-cigarette devices and liquid nicotine.

In 2013, AAPCC found 1,414 reported exposures to either e-cigarette devices or liquid nicotine; through March 24, there have been 651 reported expo-

sures. Slightly more than half of these reported exposures have occurred in young children under the age of 6.

Some children and toddlers who come in contact with e-cigarette devices or liquid nicotine have become very ill; some even requiring ER visits with nausea and vomiting being the most significant symptoms. Adults should use care to protect their skin when handling the products, and they should be out of sight and out of the reach of children. Additionally, those using these products should dispose of them properly to prevent exposure to pets and children from the residue or liquid left in the container.

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Older Americans benefit from ‘My Social Security’

ach May, groups and organizations around the nation join in celebrating Older Americans Month.

Established in 1963, Older Americans Month provides an opportunity for our nation to recognize seniors for their many contributions and share important information to help them stay healthy and active.

This year’s theme is “Safe Today, Healthy Tomorrow.” Social Security has something to help keep you safe and healthy: a suite of online services.

Rather than driving or taking public transportation to a local office, you can use our secure, free online services to handle much of your Social Security business. With the amount of time you save, you’ll have more time to spend with the grandkids or have time for a brisk walk around the neighborhood or local park.

Before going for that walk, though, visit www.socialsecurity.gov. Whether you already receive benefits or you’re just starting to think about retirement, it’s a great time to open a “my Social Security” account.

“My Social Security” is a secure online account that allows you immediate access to your personal Social Security information. During your working years, you can use “my Social Security” to view your Social Security statement to check your earnings record and see estimates of the future retirement, disability and survivor benefits you and your family may receive. Check it out at www.socialsecurity.gov/myaccount.

After you check your online Social

Security statement, be sure to visit our “Retirement Estimator.” Like a “my Social Security” account, you can use it as many times as you’d like. The estimator lets you change variables, such as retirement date options and future earnings. You may discover that you’d rather wait another year or two before you retire to earn a higher benefit. To get instant, personalized estimates of your future benefits just go to www. socialsecurity.gov/estimator.

Deciding when to retire is a personal choice and depends on a number of factors. To help, we suggest you read our online fact sheet, “When To Start Receiving Retirement Benefits,” available at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs.

If you’re ready to retire, the online service you’ve been waiting for is our online application for retirement benefits, which allows you to complete and submit your application in as little as 15 minutes at www.socialsecurity.gov/ retireonline. Once you complete and submit the electronic application, in most cases, that’s it—no papers to sign or documents to provide.

Are you already receiving benefits?

You can use “my Social Security” to immediately get your proof of benefits letter, change your address or phone number on our records, start or change your direct deposit information and check your benefit and payment information.

We encourage you to take advantage of our online services and resources, freeing up more time for activities you really enjoy. Learn more at www. socialsecurity.gov.

Q: I lost my Social Security card, but I remember my number. Do I really need a new card?

A: No, probably not—but it is important to know your number. The only time you may need the Social Security card is if your employer asks for it when you get a new job. If you do decide to get a new card or your lost one turns up, don’t carry it with you. Keep it with your other important documents. Generally, you are limited to three replacement cards a year and 10 cards during your lifetime. Legal name changes and other exceptions do not count toward these limits. Keep in mind this is a free service. Learn more at www.socialsecurity.gov/ssnumber.

the application easier for you.

• Your birthdate, place of birth and Social Security number; • Your bank account number and your bank’s routing number, for direct deposit; • The amount of money you earned last year and this year. If you are applying for benefits in the months of September through December, you may also need to provide an estimate of what you expect to earn next year if you plan to continue working; • The name and address of your employer(s) for this year and last year; • The beginning and ending dates of any active military service you had prior to 1968; and • The name, Social Security number and date of birth of your current and any former spouses.

Depending on your situation, you may need to provide additional documentation with your application. We’ll give you instructions on how to mail or bring it to us. To get started, visit our Retirement Planner at www.socialsecurity.gov/retire2.

Q&A

Q: What type of information will I need to provide if I’d like to apply online for Social Security retirement benefits?

A: Whether you apply for retirement benefits online, by phone or in an office, we suggest that you have the following information at hand when you do it — it will make completing May 2014 •

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

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Page 13

The Ragin’ Cajun

By Malissa Stinger

Food Apps Computer technology takes guesswork out of staying gluten-free

I

have a 10-year-son who is on the autism spectrum. The struggles are overwhelming, trials and tribulations are never ending, and the cost to entertain and care for your child is beyond what most “regular” families could begin to imagine.

For instance, the gluten-free diet has shown amazing results in these children’s lives as well as children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

Parents have seen results that make all the struggles — financially and emotionally — worth the effort.

But, can you imagine paying $7 for a half a loaf of bread? How about $5 for just eight cookies?

This is just the beginning. Try calling around to find your loved one a specialty cake that is gluten-free or going out for a family meal with no worries that you will be able to order something that is gluten-free.

Six years ago when we began the road to gluten-free, it wasn’t nearly as easy or possible to find the foods or help as it is today. With just the click of a button from the many apps available on the Internet, you can find just about any answer to any question you may have.

There are apps for dining out, shopping, for what places are special-needs friendly, and even a few where all a person on a gluten-free diet has to do is scan the bar code on a product to see if it is OK to consume.

Let me make your life a lot simpler by sharing the secret of what and

where you can find these apps. First let’s talk about food apps.

Is That Gluten-Free?

This iPhone and iPad-compatible app includes more than 14,800 verified gluten-free products from more than 360 brands, including private-label grocery store brands.

The app also includes a searchable ingredients tab that designates safe, unsafe and possibly unsafe ingredients. It’s possible to search for gluten-free food items by category, brand or product name, and you can follow one-touch links to company websites to search for additional information. The app Stinger costs $7.99, with free updates and no monthly fees.

Is That Gluten Free? Eating Out

This is one of my favorite apps of all. It covers 26 national and regional restaurant chains with gluten-free options, including fast food restaurants such as Arby’s, fast casual restaurants such as Red Robin, and casual restaurants such as Outback, Red Lobster and P.F. Chang’s.

In version 1.1, the app also added a list of restaurants that do not provide gluten-free menus, and included those chains’ statements and disclaimers. “Is That Gluten Free? Eating Out”, which costs $3.99, provides details on more than 2,000 menu items. It’s possible to

KIDS Corner Is it just a cold or allergies?

Experts give parents tips on how to tell the difference

O

ne of the problems that parents may have during the springtime is deciphering whether their children’s sneezing is due to a cold or allergies.

“Runny, stuffy or itchy noses, sneezing, coughing, fatigue, and headaches can all be symptoms of both allergies and colds but when parents pay close attention to minor details they will be able to tell the difference,” says Michelle Lierl, a pediatric allergist at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center.

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“Children who have springtime or fall allergies have much more itching of their noses; they often have fits of sneezing and usually rub their noses in an upward motion. They also complain about an itchy, scratchy throat or itchy eyes, whereas with a cold, they don’t,” she said.

Lierl also said that nasal discharge for allergy patients is usually clear and has the consistency of watery mucus, while patients who have colds usually have yellowish mucus discharge.

Lierl said that there is a blood

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • May 2014

search by menu item or ingredient in each restaurant.

app it is definitely gluten-free. It is able to search places around you that are gluten-free.

This is a must-have app for eating out. Ingredient lists from various ethnic and international restaurant menus help determine what selections might be suitable for you.

It does not include actual restaurant menus with allergen information. You’ll still need to talk to the chef or the manager to double-check ingredients.

This gluten-free and allergy-friendly iPhone and iPad app from Allergy Free Passport allows you to select different allergens (dairy, eggs, fish, shellfish, peanuts, soy and tree nuts along with gluten) and then look through to make sure the restaurant can make the meal without cross contamination. “iEatOut Gluten & Allergy Free”, which sells for $4.99, covers Chinese, French, Indian, Italian, Mexican, and Thai restaurants.

There are apps as well for those who have smartphones. These are simple to load and understand.

A team of dietitians built this app, which is why I love it. This app lets you scan a product’s bar code or simply just search a product within the app. It allows the consumer to not only view every ingredient in that particular product, but also defines the ingredients.

So no more wondering what you are eating when you cannot pronounce the ingredient. My rule of thumb is: If you cannot pronounce the ingredient, don’t buy it; it’s not good for you.

This app contains 250,000-plus products.

iEatOut Gluten Free & Allergy Free

Find Me Gluten Free

The Gluten Intolerance Group designed this free app. The group also certifies and tests different products and restaurants that are gluten-free.

Rest assured that if it is listed in this

test called the Immunocap, or RAST, that can screen for allergy to specific foods or airborne allergens. RAST can be ordered by any doctor, but it is important that patients or their parents talk with their doctors first. Children experiencing seasonal allergy symptoms should be tested for environmental allergens present during that season and not for food allergies or allergens present during seasons when they had no symptoms. The results of the RAST test are back after seven to 10 days, whereas allergists can do allergy skin testing in one day in the doctor’s office.

If parents discover that their children have allergies, Lierl suggests the following tips to combat symptoms: • Windows should be kept closed during periods of very high pollen and fungal spore levels.

• Change air conditioner filters every month.

• Change children’s clothing when they come inside from the outdoors.

Clothes should also be washed thoroughly to rid them of all of the outdoor pollutants.

• Children should wash their face, hands and hair after being outside.

• Wash the child’s eyes and nose with a non-prescription saline solution when the child has been outside to

In-R-Food

Flags Allergens

“Flags Allergens” will alert you to ingredients that are unsafe for you to consume based on your specific set of allergens.

This app also allows you to customize as well if you are diabetic or on a heart-healthy dietary plan. It also allows you to review and check every ingredient and product that you consume on a regular basis.

This $2.99 app is part of a movement to educate and practice healthy eating choices.

• Malissa Stinger is a gluten-free chef and cooking instructor based in Camden.

remove the pollen and fungal spores from the eyes.

• Minimize early morning outdoor activity since pollen counts are higher in the morning.

• Keep vehicle windows closed while traveling with an allergic child in the car to keep allergens and pollen out.

• Most important, make sure children take their allergy medicine daily during the pollen season.

For more information about springtime allergies, please search the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology’s website at www. aaaai.org.

CALENDAR of for those suffering the loss of a loved one.

For more information contact Tanya at 315-735-6210, tanya@thegoodnewscenter.org or visit www.thegoodnewscenter.org.

April 30

Women’s health presentation at FSLH The Faxton St. Luke’s Wellness Center — in conjunction with students from the Utica College Health Studies Program — is hosting a presentation on women’s health at 1 p.m. April 30 in the community room at the Center for Rehabilitation and Continuing Care Services on the St. Luke’s Campus, 1650 Champlin Ave., Utica.

The program is free and the community is invited to attend. The presentation will feature information on health concerns of importance to women, including menopause, osteoporosis, stress management, dieting, exercise, and breast, heart and brain health.

Call 315-624-5484 or email bkleist@ mvnhealth.com to register.

May 1

Relieving joint pain focus of Health Night Ninos Oda, an orthopedic surgeon with extensive training in total joint replacement and shoulder surgery, will discuss treatment options for joint pain at Health Night at 7 p.m. May 1 at Rome Memorial Hospital.

The free seminar will be presented in the hospital’s classroom.

Oda will talk about the common causes of joint pain and the various treatment options that are available to treat it, including Oda non-surgical and surgical interventions.

During his training, Oda was involved in over 1,500 total joint replacements.

Rome Memorial Hospital’s classroom is located on the second floor of the hospital.

Health Night is a free monthly lecture series. Advance registration is not required.

Refreshments will be served.

May 2

HealthNet to host ‘Complete Streets’ workshop Herkimer County HealthNet will be hosting a Complete Streets workshop from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 2.

Featuring Jeff Olson, from Alta Planning + Design, the event will be

Aquatic class set for cancer patients

free to municipalities, businesses, organizations, schools, Herkimer County residents, and to those who serve Herkimer County.

The Complete Streets program is tasked with making roadways safer and more accessible for all users and all abilities: motorists, pedestrians, bicyclists, people in wheelchairs, seniors, and transit riders.

The Complete Streets event will be held at the Herkimer ARC, 350 S. Washington St., Herkimer.

For more information or to RSVP, contact Alison J. Swartz at Herkimer County HealthNet, 315-867-1499 or by email at ajswartz@herkimercounty. org.

The Faxton St. Luke’s Wellness Center offers Aquatics for Recovery, an aquatic exercise class designed for individuals who have or are recovering from a cancer diagnosis.

The class helps combat fatigue, improve mood, stimulate the lymphatic and immune system and promote weight maintenance for those undergoing or recovering from treatment.

Classes are held in six-week sessions at 10 a.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays beginning May 6.

Aquatics for Recovery is held at the Faxton St. Luke’s Wellness Center, located in The Regional Rehabilitation Center at the Faxton Campus, 1676 Sunset Ave., Utica.

Classes are open to men and women. Each six-week session costs $65 when prepaid or $7 per class. Class size is limited to eight participants to allow for individual coaching.

Call 315-624-5484 or email wellness@mvnhealth.com for more information or to register.

May 5

May 7

HEALTH EVENTS

Continued from Page 2

May 6

Autism film screening at Syracuse University The Kelberman Center will present a free film screening of “Neurotypical” at 6:30 p.m. May 5 at the Lender Auditorium at Syracuse University.

The film is an exploration of autism from the point of view of autistic children and adults.

The screening will be followed by a question-and-answer session via teleconference with director Adam Larsen.

For more information, call the Kelberman Center at 315-797-6241.

May 6

FSLH schedules blood drive

Tickets available for Go Red For Women Luncheon The American Heart Association is presenting its Go Red For Women Luncheon May 7 at Hart’s Hill Inn in Whitesboro.

The luncheon celebrates the Go Red For Women movement in Utica and efforts to raise awareness that heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women.

For more information and ticket purchases, visit heartofutica.heart.org or call 315-266-5403.

May 7

FSLH stroke support group to meet

Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare will host a blood drive from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 6 in the Allen-Calder conference rooms 3, 4 and 5 at the St. Luke’s Campus, 1656 Champlin Ave., Utica.

Those interested in attending should enter through Allen-Calder Entrance 7 at the back of the campus.

All presenting donors in May can enter to win a daily raffle for a $50 Lowe’s gift card.

For more information or to make an appointment, call 315-624-8259.

You can also register online at www.redcrossblood.org.

Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare in Utica will host a free stroke support group presentation at 6 p.m. May 7 in the administrative conference room at St. Luke’s Home in the Center for Rehabilitation and Continuing Care Services, 1650 Champlin Ave., Utica.

The presentation, “Hobbies That Help Reduce Stress and Promote Happiness,” will be lead by Courtney Lojewski and Megan Schlater, recreational therapists at FSLH, who will discuss the benefits of recreational therapy and how leisure interests and hobbies help manage stress and enhance quality of life.

For more information, call Laura Love at 315-624-6847.

May 6

May 7

The Tri-County Quits Tobacco Cessation Program is offering a threepart Fresh Start class to help participants stop smoking.

The Fresh Start Program is a group-based tobacco cessation support program offered by the American Cancer Society. The classes will be held at 6:30 p.m. May 6, 13 and 20 at The Regional Cancer Center at Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare, 1676 Sunset Ave., Utica.

For more information or to register, call the Tri-County Quits Tobacco Cessation Program at 315-624-5639.

Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare in Utica will host “A Stroke of Knowledge — Essentials of Stroke Care” from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 7 at Vernon Downs Casino and Hotel in Vernon.

Physicians, nurses, therapists, students and anyone involved in the medical field are welcome to attend.

The Stroke Center at FSLH is the only designated primary stroke center in the Mohawk Valley.

Free admission for FSLH and St. Elizabeth Medical Center employees is on a first come, first served basis.

For non-employees, tickets are $60 for students and $125 for all other attendees. Breakfast and lunch are in-

Tobacco cessation classes ‘A Stroke of Knowledge’ to on agenda be presented

May 2014 •

cluded and reservations must be made

by May 2.

Contact Jennifer Hurd by email at jhurd@mvnhealth.com or by phone at 315-624-6649 to make reservations.

This activity has been submitted to the American Association of Neuroscience Nurses for approval to award contact hours.

May 10

Introduction to centering prayer set Introduction of centering prayer will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

May 10 at The Good News Center, 10475 Cosby Manor Road, Utica.

The cost is $10.00 per person and includes lunch and optional follow-up sessions.

For more information, contact Tanya at 315-735-6210, tanya@TheGoodNewsCenter.org or visit www.

TheGoodNewsCenter.org.

May 11

Separated? Divorced?

There is support The Separated & Divorced Support Group will meet from 5-6:30 p.m. May 11 at The Good News Center, 10475 Cosby Manor Road, Utica.

The group meets every other Sunday.

The meetings are free and open to all.

For more information, contact Judy at 315-735-6210, judy@thegoodnewscenter.org or visit www.thegoodnewscenter.org.

May 11

Ready to explore The Third Option?

The Third Option support group for married couples will meet from 6:30-8:30 p.m. May 11 at The Good News Center, 10475 Cosby Manor Road, Utica.

The group meets every other Sunday.

For more information, contact Tanya at 315-735-6210, tanya@TheGoodNewsCenter.org or visit www.

TheGoodNewsCenter.org.

May 17

Cancer patients, survivors to be honored Rome Memorial Hospital, Mohawk Valley Radiation Medicine and Dr. Linda Schicker invite cancer patients and survivors to the annual Survivors’ Breakfast on May 17 in Rome Memorial Hospital’s cafeteria, 1500 N. James St. Each survivor or patient is encouraged to bring one guest. Breakfast will be served from 8-11 a.m.

Seating is limited and advance reservations are required.

Contact Amy Weakley, Mohawk Valley Radiation Medicine, 338-0897, before May 9.

Guests are encouraged to park in the Bartlett Wing lot, with easy access from East Oak Street.

This annual breakfast is an opportunity for area cancer patients and survivors to gather before the American Cancer Society’s annual Rome Relay for Life that will be held May 31 at the New York State School for the Deaf.

The event begins with the Survivors’ Lap at noon May 31 and continues into National Cancer Survivors’ Day on June 1.

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Page 15

H ealth News FSLH celebrates Healthcare Volunteer Week

Challenge grant goes to SEMC Foundation

In honor of National Healthcare Volunteer Week, April 6-12, Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare in Utica recognized the many active volunteers who donate their time, energy and talents to the organization and encourage others to start helping within their communities.

In 2013, 240 FSLH volunteers contributed nearly 60,000 hours of service to patients, residents Gwise and families.

That is equivalent to the work of 30 full-time employees, which saves the hospital more than $1.3 million per year. Jane Gwise, president of the Faxton St. Luke’s Volunteer Association, began volunteering at Faxton Hospital more than 20 years ago because she was looking for a way to give back to the community.

“I was looking for a rewarding way to spend my free time,” said Gwise.

“Volunteering at the hospital ended up being much more gratifying than I ever could have expected.

“I started working in the gift shop and also served on the Faxton Council Board of Directors. Over the years the hospitals went through many changes, but the satisfaction I received from volunteering and helping our patients and residents remained immeasurable. I now volunteer in the outpatient infusion unit at The Regional Cancer Center and absolutely love assisting the patients and staff.”

Gwise is beginning her third term as president of the Volunteer Association.

For more information about volunteer opportunities at FSLH, visit http:// faxtonstlukes.com/volunteer-services or call Sue Warwick, director of volunteer services and guest relations, at 315-6246142.

The St. Elizabeth Medical Center Foundation has received a challenge grant in the amount of $15,000 from an anonymous donor “in memory of a remarkable man.”

The grant is to assist SEMC in purchasing software technology for its digital mammography equipment at the Sister Rose Vincent Family Medicine Center and the St. Elizabeth Medical Arts location in New Hartford.

“Our organization conducts approximately 4,800 mammography screenings annually,” noted Andrea LaGatta, director of development for SEMC. “This software will help us to eliminate the need for unnecessary, and sometimes invasive, follow-up screenings. Thanks to our very generous donors, this challenge grant puts us more than half way to our goal of $56,000, which is the total cost of the upgrade.”

The new software is a clinical tool that assists clinicians in measuring breast density by drawing attention to suspicious areas in mammograms that require further review.

Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare in Utica and SEMC are affiliates under the Mohawk Valley Health System.

Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare makes staff announcement Kevin J. Gehr has joined Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare’s Adirondack Community Physicians orthopedic group as a physician assistant.

Gehr completed the nuclear medicine technology certificate program at Lancaster General College of Nursing and Gehr Health Sciences in Lancaster, Pa., and earned his Bachelor of Science and Master of Physician Assistant Studies from Le Moyne College in Syracuse.

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SDMG names employee of quarter James Humphrey has been named employee of the quarter at Slocum-Dickson Medical Group in New Hartford.

Humphrey began his employment with SDMG in February of 2009 as a medical assistant in the urgent care department.

He has been described as Humphrey helpful and patient even when faced with difficult situations.

“Co-workers have commented on how his positive attitude has helped brighten their day,” a spokesperson said.

Humphrey plays an important role in the often fast-paced environment of the urgent care department, helping to manage many day-to-day tasks and responsibilities necessary to provide high-quality medical care.

May is American Stroke Month During American Stroke Month in May, the American Stroke Association — a division of the American Heart Association — asks everyone to learn two things that may save a life.

• Know if you are at risk for stroke.

• Know the stroke warning signs and what to do in a stroke emergency.

Stroke is the No. 1 preventable

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • May 2014

AmeriGas supports Sitrin’s Stars & Stripes Run-Walk AmeriGas recently donated $1,746 to Sitrin Health Care Center’s Stars & Stars RunWalk. Staff from the Alder Creek location raised the funds through various raffles at an open house held for customers. Pictured are Marcia McKinney, left, AmeriGas super user/customer relations representative, and Cheryl Jassak, Sitrin special events/planning associate. The Stars & Stripes Run-Walk, scheduled for Oct. 11, benefits Sitrin’s Military Rehabilitation Program, which provides comprehensive care for service members and veterans with post-traumatic stress, traumatic brain injuries, amputations, and other combat-related conditions. cause of disability and the fourth-leading cause of death in the United States.

Someone in the U.S. has a stroke every 40 seconds yet 80 percent of strokes are preventable.

According to the ASA, knowing if you are at risk for stroke is highly important, because many risk factors can be modified and controlled. The No. 1 stroke risk factor is high blood pressure. Nearly 78 million Americans have high blood pressure and many more aren’t even aware that they have it.

For these reasons, the AHA urges everyone to check their blood pressure regularly and talk to their doctors about reaching and maintaining healthy blood pressure levels.

Through the ASA’s Together to End Stroke initiative, the ASA provides information and tools to help people to prevent, treat and beat stroke. A free stroke risk assessment, available at StrokeAssociation.org/ strokemonth, helps individuals to evaluate their personal stroke risk and

to work with their doctor to begin a prevention plan.

VHS selects its employee of quarter Amanda Pettengill of Valley Health Services’ Adult Day Health Care program in Little Falls was selected as the VHS Employee of the First Quarter 2014.

Pettengill joined the staff at VHS in 2006 as a resident aide and then completed the certification proPettengill gram to become a certified nursing assistant.

Continued on Page 17

H ealth News Continued from Page 16 She transferred to the Little Falls Adult Day Health Care program when it began providing services in January 2010.

Pettengill lives in Herkimer with her husband, David, and two children, Mackenzie and Austin.

Flying high with Hummingbird Award Abraham House in Utica recently celebrated National Volunteer Week with a volunteer appreciation brunch for their volunteers at Valentino’s Banquet Hall, New Hartford.

Barb Ryczek of Utica was awarded the first Volunteer Hummingbird Award for her dedication to Abraham House over the past 16 years.

The hummingbird is the logo of Abraham House.

Abraham House is in need of more volunteers to ensure its mission in providing a secure and loving home without charge to the terminally ill.

If interested, contact 733-8210, email info@theabrahamhouse.org or download the volunteer application at www.theabrahamhouse.org.

Greatest Heart Run & Walk proves fruitful The American Heart Association announced the team challenge totals for America’s Greatest Heart Run & Walk Weekend 2014 at the High 5 Club Party recently, hosted by Hart’s Hill Inn in Whitesboro.

The High 5 Club Party and memorial awards ceremony are held to honor those participants who raise $500 or more for America’s Greatest Heart Run & Walk. The High 5 Club has grown since its inception in 1985 and this year’s total of 241 “High 5” Club members raised $348,001.56.

The top fundraiser, Albert Pylinski, Jr., received a Meyda Lighting lamp.

He raised $32,910.

For more information, call 1-800-AHA-USA1 or visit www.heart. org.

Sitrin launches SU basketball raffle Tickets are available for the second annual Syracuse University basketball raffle to support Sitrin Medical Rehabilitation Center’s Success Through Adaptive Recreation & Sports (STARS) program.

One lucky fan will win four season passes for the 2014-15 Syracuse University men’s basketball season and $1,000 cash.

Raffle tickets are $10 and 3,500 will be sold.

Tickets can be purchased online at www.sitrin.com, in person at Sitrin, 2050 Tilden Ave., New Hartford, or by calling 315-737-2245.

The prize package is valued at $4,207.

The drawing will be held at noon Oct. 7 at Sitrin.

Ticket buyers do not need to be present at the drawing to win. Entrants

Sauquoit Valley High School athletes raise funds for The Breast Care Center

Sauquoit Valley High School athletes recently raised $1,000 to benefit local patients and their families receiving care at the Breast Care Center of The Regional Cancer Center at Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare in Utica. Kneeling in the front row from left are Kassidy Hasselman, Hayley Mielnicki, Brianne Cardillo, Caitlin Castelletti, and Cassandra Wakefield. Standing in the back row from left are Darleen Philpotts, Braden Murphy, Lindsay Kidder, Clayton Lemieux, Aayush Gosrani, Colin Madia, Keith Marble, and Conner Brown.

During the boys’ volleyball and boys and girls basketball games, donations were collected at the door and a raffle was held for three gift baskets. The girls’ basketball teams also held a bake sale to raise funds.

must be 18 years of age.

Proceeds from the raffle will be used to purchase basketball wheelchairs for Sitrin STARS athletes. The STARS program enables individuals with physical disabilities to participate in recreational and Paralympic Games-level sports.

In addition to wheelchair basketball, activities include wheelchair road racing, adaptive curling, adaptive paddling, cross-country skiing/biathlon, air rifle shooting, archery, skiing, and adaptive golf.

Utica College nursing students inducted For the first time, Utica College nursing students from all three of its programs have been honored with induction into the prestigious Sigma Theta Tau honor society.

Utica College offers three different ways of obtaining a nursing degree: the traditional campus-based nursing program, bachelor of science in nursing for nurses already working in the field, and the accelerated second degree

nursing program for those who have a bachelor’s degree in another discipline but have decided to pursue nursing.

“To have students from each of our nursing programs inducted into STTI is truly a measure of excellence,” said Cathy Brownell, associate professor and chair of nursing at UC. STTI membership is by invitation

to baccalaureate and graduate nursing students who demonstrate excellence in scholarship and to nurse leaders exhibiting exceptional achievements in nursing.

For more information on Utica College’s nursing programs, visit http:// www.utica.edu/academic/hhs/nursing/.

RC Soup donates funds to CMN Hospital

R

C Soup recently raised more than $1,100 to donate to the Children’s Miracle Network Hospital at Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare in Utica.

RC Soup, a blog dedicated to various aspects of the radio-controlled hobby, held a raffle for a RC car and sold 300 tickets with all proceeds benefitting CMN. “The focus was on raising money for a great cause — the Children’s Miracle Network,” said Kevin Crandall, co-creator of RC Soup. “Most of Team Soup is made up of active

May 2014 •

fathers with young children. We all felt that a community asset such as CMN would be an excellent recipient of our generosity.”

2014 Miracle Child Austynn Willson of Utica drew the raffle winner.

When Willson was a baby, she was diagnosed with hemiparaplegia cerebral palsy, a condition that impairs the physical and motor development on one side. Thanks to funding from CMN, she continues to show great progress as she receives services through the occupational therapy department at FSLH.

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Page 17

Mary in the Middle

She puts the ‘go’ in ‘You go girl!’

By Jim Miller

How to get help with Medicare decisions Dear Savvy Senior, Where can I get help with my Medicare decisions?

I’m approaching 65, and could use some help sorting through the different Medicare plan options that are available to me.

Almost Eligible

In addition, the Medicare Rights Center (medicarerights.org) staffs a hotline at 800-333-4114 to help answer your Medicare questions.

And your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) provides free Medicare counseling in person or over the phone. To find a local SHIP counselor see shiptalk.org, or call the Eldercare Locator at 800-677-1116.

And, for tips on choosing a top Medicare Advantage plan, see the HealthMetrix Research Cost Share Report at medicarenewswatch.com. This resource lists the best Advantage plans by area based on your health status.

Fee-based services

Dear Almost, The options and choices available to Medicare beneficiaries today can be overwhelming. In addition to original Medicare (Part A and B) that has been around for 49 years, you also have the option of enrolling in a Part D prescription drug plan, and a supplemental (Medigap) policy — both of which are sold by private insurance companies.

Or, a Medicare Advantage plan which covers health care, prescription drugs and extra services all in one. These plans, which are also sold by private insurers, are generally available through HMOs and PPOs. To help you figure out the Medicare plans for you, there are a variety of services and tools available today depending on how much help you need.

Here are several to get you started.

If the free services don’t cut the mustard and you need some additional help in making your Medicare decisions, there are a handful of fee-based companies that are very helpful.

One of the best is Allsup Inc. (ama. allsup.com, 866-521-7655) which offers a Medicare adviser service that takes your personal information online or over the phone, such as the prescription drugs you take and the doctors you use, and provides you customized advice on the best Medicare plans that match your needs and budget. They’ll even help you enroll in the plan(s) you select. Fees for their services range between $200 and $495 depending on how much help you need.

Another option is Healthcare Navigation (healthcarenavigation.com, 877-811-8211), which charges $750 for a 90-minute comprehensive Medicare consultation.

Free resources

Commission-based

A good starting point to get familiar with Medicare is the “Medicare & You” 2014 handbook that overviews the program and your options. You can read it online at medicare.gov/pubs/ pdf/10050.pdf, or you should receive a free copy in the mail one month before your 65th birthday.

The Medicare website also offers a free “Plan Finder” tool at medicare. gov/find-a-plan that can help you find and compare health plans, supplemental policies and prescription drug plans in your area. Or, if you don’t have Internet access, or don’t feel confident in working through the information on your own, you can also call Medicare at 800-633-4227 and a customer service representative will do the work for you over the phone.

Other free resources that can help include planprescriber.com or ehealthmedicare.com, two websites developed by eHealth Insurance that will compare Part D, Advantage and supplemental plans in your area and connect you to a licensed insurance agent.

Another way to get help with your Medicare enrollment is to consult an independent insurance agent. Agents typically get paid a commission to sell you a policy, although they offer plans from a number of providers.

The Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers of America have a directory on their website (see independentagent.com/contactus) that lets you search for agents in your area. But keep in mind that agents typically specialize in the Medicare plans they represent, rather than all the plans in your market.

Page 18

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By Mary Stevenson

Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit www.savvysenior. org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book.

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • May 2014

Mom has a lot of her plate, but she wouldn’t have it any other way

I

am a wife, mother, foster mother, daughter, sister, cousin, niece, aunt, and friend.

Under each of those hats are more titles — maid, cook, referee, seamstress, dishwasher, dog walker and groomer, beautician, and appointment organizer extraordinaire. I could add butcher, baker and candlestick maker and become my own nursery rhyme.

None of those include what I do for a living — writer and real estate agent. When you look at it that way, it sure does sound like a lot, Stevenson doesn’t it? It is.

Not too long ago, two women, at separate times, made me feel angry and question why I do all that I do.

Their tones were condescending when they said I have a lot on my plate and insinuated I could not do what extra I had offered to do.

I wrote a pretty angry column that thankfully, I held on to for a little while. I think that I was more hurt that a woman could not understand and support another woman who does

what she needs to so that she may care for her family as she sees fit.

I was mad as hell and wanted the world to know it. I am glad that I bit my tongue as that would have come back to bite me.

A couple of months ago, actress and businesswoman Gwyneth Paltrow gave an interview to E! Online about making movies and being a mom.

She set off a firestorm that fanned the

already hot flames of working moms versus stay-at-home-moms versus work-from-home moms. Add dads in those categories as well, for that matter.

She said it was more difficult to be a mom working 14 hour days for two weeks away from her family on a set as an actress as opposed to a mom who works a regular 9-to-5 job. Blogs, Facebook, Twitter and other social media lighted up like a Christmas tree with angry moms and dads. How dare she compare being a multi-millionaire movie star to a mom who works 40 hours a week making considerably less than she does?

What does she know about stressing over work all day, rushing home to get dinner on the table, children bathed and in bed early enough so they aren’t bears to wake up in the morning, in addition to doing the laundry, cleaning the house, taking care of the pets and all of the other things “regular” people have to do in minimal amounts of time?

She has the ability to have nannies, assistants, chefs, personal trainers, housekeepers, and anyone else she may need to run her household smoothly. I freely admit I was one of those people who had a lot to say about her comments. And I certainly was not shy about doing so.

Then it hit me. I was being one of those women who judged me. I was judging Gwyneth for the choices she has made that works for her family as I was judged for doing what I do. I didn’t like it when it was done to me; I shouldn’t be doing that to someone else.

Why do we do that?

Shouldn’t we, as women, stick together instead of competing with each other? We should be building each other up instead of tearing each other down for the choices we make. I have a certain dynamic with my children and family that probably won’t work for many others. And there are many other families who create memories and routines that work for their relationships and might throw my family for a loop. People are quick to judge and get so upset when they are judged. Guess that “do unto others” thing stings a little when it is done unto you.

I will do my best to be better about judging and complaining about what other women do with their families that I don’t do with my own. After I load the dishwasher. And run a load of laundry. And take the dogs out. And write next month’s column.

• Mary Stevenson is a staff writer for Mohawk Valley In Good Health.

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Meet

Your Doctor

By Patricia J. Malin

Warm-up important before working out Continued from Page 4 children. My big interest is in hip arthroscopy, its effects and recovery and improving the odds of a good outcome.

Research takes a lot of time. I keep reading journals, talk with other doctors and attend meetings once or twice a year. I probably spend 20 percent of my time on research and 80 percent on my patients.

Q.: What are the newest developments in orthopedics? What do you foresee in the future?

A.: We spend a lot of time now on preventive care. We’re studying the use of biologic agents like PRP, which is an injection of platelet-rich plasma around the hip during arthroscopy. Biologic agents are blood and tissue plasma, usually taken from the patient’s arm and then re-injected. We’re also studying the pros and cons of plastic or metal in hip or knee replacements.

Plastic tends to wear out sooner, but metal causes more reactions.

Sometimes, we will use plastic on one side and metal on the other, but we’re always looking for the right combination that causes the least problems.

Having a total knee replacement is not the most fun, but it produces a good outcome. In the future, we’ll see improvements in arthroscopic equipment, especially used in sports medicine. We’ll have a better understanding of PRP and the use of stem cells.

Q.: What would you recommend to your patients to avoid injuries while participating in sports?

A.: Warm-up is very important. I suggest light running first and then a stretch when your muscles are warm and stretching after exercise. While everyone is different, some sort of warm-up is a good idea. My advice to weekend athletes is to not overdo it, especially at this time of the year.

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IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

•

Page 19

Think about your thyroid Thyroid plays a pivotal part in keeping body balanced

By Barbara Pierce

T

hyroid problems may be the single most common cause of fatigue for women.

More than 20 million Americans suffer from thyroid problems; half of them don’t even know it.

Thyroid disease is tricky to diagnose. Its symptoms are vague and mimic those of menopause, pregnancy and chronic health disorders.

“Thyroid disease is very common,” said Deanna Brady, family nurse practitioner at Adirondack Community Physicians in Whitesboro. “It is especially prevalent in those over 65 years of age.”

The thyroid is a small gland, just below your Adam’s apple. It produces two hormones that control the rate of many activities of your body.

These hormones include how fast you burn calories and how fast your heart beats — known as metabolism.

A thyroid that is working right will produce the right amounts of hormone that are needed to keep your metabolism working at a rate that is not too fast and not too slow.

There are two types of thyroid disease, said Brady. Hypothyroidism is when the thyroid gland is underactive, putting out too little hormone, causing metabolism to slow down.

The symptoms of hypothyroidism are being really tired, feeling depressed, weight gain, constipation, having dry skin and hair loss.

Hypothyroidism is more common in women; 10 women to one man have it.

Hyperthyroidism is when the thyroid gland is overactive, causing metabolism to speed up. “Symptoms include feeling nervous, sweaty, sensitive to heat, increase in appetite, and diarrhea,” added Brady.

Hyperthyroidism is more common in men than women.

Check for symptoms

If you have one or more of the following symptoms, you may be suffering from thyroid disease, according to Lifescript.com.

• Feeling tired or hyperactive: Stress can make you tired. But fatigue is also the most common symptom of hypothyroidism and sometimes occurs with hyperthyroidism.

Page 20

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Women with hyperthyroidism may feel hyper or jittery, and their hands may shake. Bulging eyes and double vision could be the first signs of hypothyroidism.

• Unexplained weight gain or loss: Many women with an underactive thyroid pack on pounds. And those with hyperthyroidism may lose weight without blinking an eye.

You might blame normal body changes, such as menopause or having a baby. But if the scale continues to fluctuate with no difference in your activity level or diet, get a thyroid blood test.

• Body thermostat doesn’t seem right: If your thyroid is overactive, you may feel sweaty and overheated in temperatures that didn’t bother you before. Or you may not be able to tolerate heat at all. If you’re running colder than usual, it could be an underactive thyroid.

• Bowel changes: The thyroid

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • May 2014

hormone also regulates your bowels.

If you have hypothyroidism, you may develop constipation and have hard stools.

With hyperthyroidism, you may have more bowel movements per day than usual, or they may be loose and watery. If you haven’t changed your diet and have loose stools often, get your thyroid tested.

May impact heart rate

• Changes in heart rate: Thyroid hormone can affect your heart rate.

Your pulse may be slowed if you have hypothyroidism. An overactive thyroid may cause a rapid pulse, even palpitations.

Neither disorder typically results in a dangerous heart rate. Problems can arise if a thyroid disorder is left untreated too long, but usually by that time, other body systems will have been affected enough to cause other symptoms first.

Other causes can increase heart rate. But don’t ignore heart rate changes — get your thyroid checked.

• Changes in skin: Dry skin is a dead giveaway that your thyroid is underactive, especially if it gets worse despite efforts to keep it moist. Hypothyroidism commonly causes very dry skin that easily flakes off. But because this problem also occurs with aging, it’s often treated without considering a thyroid problem.

Those with hyperthyroidism frequently have warm, sweaty skin. They also may sweat more than usual.

Edema or swelling can occur over the front of the lower legs.

It may feel like thickening of the skin, which may also darken in color.

• Hair loss: Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can affect your hair. With an underactive thyroid, you can also lose the outside part of the eyebrows — the part nearest to your temples.

• Depression: If you feel blue most days, cry easily, have brain fog, are not sleeping well, and have lost interest in activities, thyroid disease could be the cause.

“I’m a psychiatric nurse,” said Brady. “Whenever I see someone newly diagnosed with depression or anxiety, I want to make sure their thyroid is not the cause.”

Hypothyroidism is easy to treat by medication. Most people will need to take the replacement thyroid hormone for the rest of their life. Once your hormone level is normal for several months, you will feel like your old self again.

To treat hyperthyroidism, taking radioactive iodine orally — from one to three times in total — results in hypothyroidism in most patients. That means they’ll need thyroid hormone replacement indefinitely.

Surgical removal of all or part of the thyroid gland is also used to treat hyperthyroidism.

“If you have any of the symptoms of thyroid disease, contact your physician,” Brady concludes.