Mv igh #91 sept13

in good September 2013 • Issue 91

Seeking a CURE Page 6

Special Teens/ Kids Edition

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Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

Single Dads

Do you have what it takes to be ‘Mr. Mom’?

See Page 5 Page 5

Back to School

What every college freshman should know Page 3 When is the right time to turn over the keys?

See Page 19 Get ‘In Good Health’ at home.

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Cycling your way to better health Page 20

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HEALTH EVENTS

Dr. Graber is pleased to welcome Gregory Dalencourt, MD to the practice

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

Dr. Dalencourt is now seeing new patients for surgical consultation for those considering weight loss surgery Our program has successfully met the highest standards set forth by the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery and is recognized as an ASMBS Center of Excellence.

Surgeries are performed at Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare in Utica, and at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Syracuse. Dr. Graber is the Director of Bariatric Surgery at both hospitals.

To find out more, visit DrGraberMD.com or call 877-269-0355 to discuss how we might help you in your search to find a healthier you!

Sundays

Sept. 4

The Third Option meets from 6:30-8:30 p.m. every other Sunday at The Good News Center, 10475 Cosby Manor Road, Utica.

The next meeting is Sept. 8.

The Third Option is a support group for married couples who are experiencing difficulties.

For more information, contact Andrea, program coordinator, at 315-735-6210 ext. 228, andrea@thegoodnewscenter.org or visit www.thegoodnewscenter.org.

Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare in Utica will host a free stroke support group presentation at 6 p.m. Sept. 4 in the Soggs Room at St. Luke’s Home in the Center for Rehabilitation and Continuing Care Services, 1650 Champlin Ave., Utica.

The presentation will be lead by Kathleen Rutishauser, owner of Daughter for Hire, LLC, who will discuss assistive services available for seniors and how they benefit individuals recovering from stroke.

Daughter for Hire provides a variety of services, including household maintenance, transportation, financial analysis and entertainment.

For more information, call 315-6246847.

Is it time to consider ‘The Third Option’?

Tuesdays

Grieving? Support is available Grief Survivors—formerly known as GriefShare—meets from 6-7:30 p.m. every other Tuesday at The Good News Center, 10475 Cosby Manor Road, Utica.

The next meeting is Sept. 3.

Grief Survivors is a faith-based support group for those who have lost a loved one.

For more information, contact Andrea, program coordinator, at 315-7356210, andrea@thegoodnewscenter.org or visit www.thegoodnewscenter.org.

Sept. 4

• SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY • • WORKERS’ COMPENSATION • John N. Kalil

Discover the ‘big picture’ of the Bible Bible study sessions will be held from 10-11 a.m. or 6-7:30 p.m. Wednesdays Sept. 4 through Oct. 23 at The Good News Center, 10475 Cosby Manor Road, Utica.

Contact Tanya at 315-735-6210, tanya@thegoodnewscenter.org or register online at www.thegoodnewscenter. org.

Attorney at Law

Over 38 Years Experience • Prompt • Personal • Professional INCLUDING • Personal Injury • Real Estate • General Practice

Dangers of distracted driving explored One call or text can change everything.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over 3,300 people were killed in 2011 in crashes involving a distracted driver. Hundreds of thousands more were injured.

Emergency medicine specialist Timothy Page wants to save lives and reduce needless injury by presenting the “Dangers of Distracted Driving” at Rome Memorial Hospital’s Health Night 7 p.m. Sept. 5.

The free lecture will be held in the hospital’s classroom. Page will discuss what happens when your brain tries to process multiple stimuli at once, common trauma injuries seen in an emergency department, the dangers of

Continued on Page 16

Bruce Stewart, DDS

Where Integrity And Experience Count

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IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • September 2013

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Back to School

Whole new world

Essential skills for college freshmen

By Barbara Pierce

A

djusting to college can be difficult.

There are many challenges a freshman must face, many things he must learn as he makes the transition from high school to college.

How can you best prepare your child to meet these challenges successfully?

As a college student, he will be responsible for his choices and actions.

He will be responsible for making decisions about studying, eating, sleeping, finances, health, and managing his time.

It may be a new experience for your student to be held accountable and not be able to turn to you to fend for him or her.

You will still be an important source of support and advice to your student, but he will need to assume responsibility for himself and his actions.

Local experts suggest some of the ways students can prepare for the challenges they will face as they begin to navigate college, and how parents can help.

“The biggest thing is to have goals with respect to your college career.

Hawes Know what you want,” advised Dr. Matthew Hawes, dean of students, Herkimer County Community College.

“When they begin, most kids have no idea what their goals are,” added Hawes.

Goals could include such things as “Get a degree in three years,” or, “Have a 3.5 GPA,” or “Become a better writer.”

The second most important skill new college students need is how to manage time, Hawes said.

Plan time effectively

“Plan for when you will study.

At least two hours a day need to be planned for study; this must be part of each student’s daily schedule. It won’t work to begin studying at 10 o’clock at night.”

Students will have much unscheduled time, and how they use it can make the difference between a student who struggles and one who succeeds.

Students may need help to learn how to plan ahead. They will need to learn to use a calendar or day planner to keep track of assignments and commitments and to schedule time to study each day.

Herkimer College offers a first-year freshman seminar that all new students are expected to take to help them in their transition to life on a college campus. Also, professors will help their students, and a new mentoring program is being instituted, Hawes added.

The ability to communicate effectively is one of the most essential skills college students must have to succeed, advises Halina Lotyczewski, director of career services at Utica College.

To succeed in their college classes as well as in their personal lives, they must be able to communicate effectively in both writing and speaking.

“College coursework provides opportunities to hone these skills through written assignments, presentations, and group work,” she added. “But valuable experiential outlets like internships and volunteerism, participation in student organizations, or membership on athletic teams also serve the purpose of developing these life-long skills.”

and non-verbal communication skills to connect with and impress the interviewer enough to be offered a position.

“I often remind students not to underestimate the powerful message that can be sent when non-verbal cues, like facial expressions, gestures, eye contact, even attire, are collectively used to denote interest, enthusiasm, and professionalism,” Lotyczewski said.

“No discussion of communication would be complete without considering the pervasiveness Lotyczewski of social media in today’s communication,” Lotyczewski adds.

“Platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube are contributing

to the very rapid change in the communication landscape. Students need to become skilled in knowing how and when to incorporate these tools in their professional and personal communication and exercise good judgment when doing so. This kind of virtual communication is increasingly public, permanent, and has its own associated positive and negative implications.”

“Getting enough sleep — at least eight hours a night — is very important for a student’s mental and physical health,” Hawes summed up. “Eating right, getting exercise — all of these things are important.”

SUNY Cortland offers a few more practical suggestions in its handbook: “As simplistic as it sounds, many students arrive at college never having to do their laundry. Make sure your student has laundry skills. Many students get their first credit card while they are in college. Credit cards can be dangerous,” the handbook notes.

• Related story, Page 5.

MC

Communication skills vital

Lotyczewski works with students to improve their communication skills.

To obtain a professional position, a résumé and cover letter are usually required. The student must ensure that these written documents clearly and concisely convey skills, experiences, and achievements.

Phone, video chat, and in-person interviews may follow, requiring the student to demonstrate strong verbal

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September 2013 •

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

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Page 3

STUDY: Vegetarian diets associated with lower risk of death

V

egetarian diets are associated with reduced death rates in a study of more than 70,000 Seventh-day Adventists with more favorable results for men than women, according to a report published Online First by JAMA Internal Medicine, a JAMA Network publication.

The possible relationship between diet and mortality is an important area of study. Vegetarian diets have been associated with reductions in risk for several chronic diseases, including hypertension, metabolic syndrome, diabetes mellitus and ischemic heart disease (IHD), according to the study background.

Physician Michael J. Orlich of Loma Linda University in California, and colleagues examined all-cause and cause-specific mortality in a group of 73,308 men and women Seventh-day Adventists. Researchers assessed dietary patients using a questionnaire that categorized study participants into five groups: nonvegetarian, semi-vegetarian, pesco-vegetarian (includes seafood), lacto-ovo-vegetarian (includes dairy and egg products) and vegan (excludes all animal products).

The study notes that vegetarian groups tended to be older, more highly educated and more likely to be married, to drink less alcohol, to smoke less, to exercise more and to be thinner.

“Some evidence suggests vegetarian dietary patterns may be associated with reduced mortality, but the relationship is not well established,” the study notes.

There were 2,570 deaths among the study participants during a mean (average) followup time of almost six years. The overall mortality rate was six deaths per 1,000 person years. The adjusted hazard ratio (HR) for allcause mortality in all vegetarians combined vs. nonvegetarians was 0.88, or 12 percent lower, according to the study results. The association also appears to be better for men with significant reduction in cardiovascular disease mortality and IHD death in vegetarians vs. nonvegetarians. In women, there were no significant reductions in these categories of mortality, the results indicate.

“These results demonstrate an overall association of vegetarian dietary patterns with lower mortality compared with the nonvegetarian dietary pattern. They also demonstrate some associations with lower mortality of the pescovegetarian, vegan and lactoovo-vegetarian diets specifically compared with the nonvegetarian diet,” the authors conclude.

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Meet

Your Doctor

By Chris Motola

Dr. Mary Cunningham New Hartford native, a gynecologic oncologist, talks about gynecologic cancers, including the most common, endometrial cancer

P

hysician Mary Cunningham specializes in the comprehensive care of women with gynecologic malignancies, including radical surgery and chemotherapy for patients with cancers of the uterus, ovary, cervix and vulva.

She is also an expert in gynecologic surgery for benign disease. Since 2006, she has been using the da Vinci robotic system to perform complex laparoscopic procedures, including radical hysterectomy, lymph node dissection and cancer staging, as well as procedures for ovarian cysts and fibroids. Below are excerpts or our conversation with her.

Q: Generally speaking, what are the risk factors for gynecologic cancers? HPV has gotten a lot of attention recently.

A: HPV is a risk factor for cervical cancer, but the most common gynecologic cancer is endometrial cancer, which is cancer of the uterus. The biggest risk factor for that is being obese. So as the American population’s weight has increased, the risk of endometrial cancer has also increased. With regard to ovarian cancers, about 10 percent of those are due to genetic factors. That got a lot of attention recently with Angelina Jolie having her prophylactic surgery to prevent the development of ovarian cancer. We certainly see patients who have BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations who need prophylactic surgery to help prevent the development of those cancers. You mentioned HPV earlier. In the United States, Pap smear screenings and HPV vaccinations work together to reduce the risk of cervical cancer. It’s much less common here now than in many parts of the world thanks to those efforts.

cancer in men is very uncommon, but when it does happen it’s almost always due to an abnormality in the BRCA2 gene.

Q: How often is screening done for these gene mutations?

A: Screening is not done for the general population, usually only for people who have a strong family history of breast or ovarian cancer. If it does run in your family, you should talk to your physician about genetic counseling.

Q: As an oncologist, is most of your care intervention-based, or do you also do preventive care?

A: Most of what I do is treating people who have been diagnosed with cancer or who are suspected of having cancer. So I’ll take care of patients who have an ovarian mass that may or may not be cancer.

Q: What’s the prognosis like for those diagnosed with gynecologic cancers?

A: Endometrial cancer, which is the most common, is usually diagnosed in the early stages when it’s highly treatable. The cure rate is in the 80-90 percent range for most people. If it’s caught early, most people are going to do fine. The difficulty is in treating them when they go undiagnosed for long periods of time.

Q: You mentioned the BRCA gene mutations. Those have an incredible correlation with the development of certain types of cancer.

A: Breast cancer and ovarian cancers. If you have it, you have up to an 80 percent lifetime risk of breast cancer and a 40 percent lifetime risk of ovarian cancer.

Q: I’ve heard even men with the gene are at risk for developing breast cancer.

A: Breast

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • September 2013

Q: What’s the typical procedure for treating endometrial cancer?

A: The treatment almost always starts off with doing surgery. We can treat endometrial cancers without doing a hysterectomy, but the cure rate goes way down substantially. So they usually have hysterectomies, they have the removal of the cervix, tubes and ovaries — and possibly some of the

lymph nodes — to prevent the spread of cancer. And then, depending on what the pathology reports say, we may recommend some radiation treatment after the surgery.

Q: How old are your patients usually?

A: Endometrial cancer usually occurs in women who are past menopause, so the average age is around 60.

The most common symptom is bleeding after a woman has gone through menopause. Any woman experiencing that should see a doctor right away to make sure they don’t have a cancer developing.

Q: How effective has education and outreach been in making women aware of the risks?

A: I think it’s gotten a lot better over the last few years due to a lot of factors. I think the awareness has really improved. That doesn’t mean there isn’t room for improvement. We always appreciate any accurate coverage we get from media people such as yourself. It’s important for people to be aware and educated.

Q: What attracted you to this specialty?

A: I was interested in the surgical aspects of medicine and I liked the idea that I could follow my patients after the surgery. Most surgeons don’t have the opportunity to get to know their patients. We perform the surgeries and then follow up with patients over the years to make sure there’s no recurrence.

Q: Are you able to do most of those surgeries with the minimally invasive daVinci robot?

A: I think the robot is an excellent laproscopic instrument. We’ve found that we’re able to treat patients who may have otherwise needed a larger incision, which usually means a shorter recovery time and sometimes a lower risk of complications. I think one of the things to remember is that the robot is an instrument under the control of the surgeon. It’s not automated in the sense that orders are plugged in and it performs them. It’s a surgical instrument like a scalpel. Robotic surgery gives surgeons a three-dimensional view, so it makes it easier to perform many operations.

Q: Are these instruments changing the skill sets doctors need?

A: I think medicine has become increasingly complex and technical. I think one of the important things for residents coming out of medical school is to adopt a habit of lifelong learning. Many of the tools they’ll be using haven’t been invented yet.

Lifelines Hometown: New Hartford, NY Education: Northwestern University Medical School (medical); Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (fellowship) Hospital Affiliations: Crouse Hospital; SUNY Upstate Medical University Organizations: American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology; the American Medical Society; Onondaga County Medical Society; Society of Gynecologic Oncology Family: Married, two children Hobbies: Skiing, traveling, cooking

Cover Story

The life of a single dad recommends. If you start a new family or become part of your wife’s family, make sure your new partner wants your children to be part of your life together. As the man in the middle between your new wife and your children, show them that they are all important to you.

By Barbara Pierce

“

When my son was 17, his mother sent him out of state without telling me,” said 45-year-old Mike of Central New York. “I was devastated.

It hurt. I couldn’t do anything about it legally.”

Following their divorce, Mike’s wife sent their son to relatives in another state. “She lied to me. She had agreed I could be in his life after our divorce. But she sent him away and I couldn’t have any contact with him. It was so tough. I loved him so much.”

Through the separated and divorced support group at the Good News Center in Utica, Mike learned to cope. He was finally able to reunite with his son, now has a close ongoing relationship with him, and feels good about his life.

Mike offers this advice for other single dads: First, no matter what happens, you’re still a father. Even though your relationship with your wife is gone, your love for your child doesn’t stop.

Work at being a part of your child’s life. Reach out to him or her. Mike had to reach out to his son. He went to his son’s graduation from high school, and reached out to him. He encouraged his son to talk with him and to vent. This helped them get back in contact, and they have stayed in frequent contact since then.

Nicole Persky, 26, lost her father in a divorce when she was a teenager. “He should have kept fighting for me,” she said, still disturbed about this many years later. Too many children lose their fathers in divorce.

“Though your family has been ripped apart, you still have your kids.

There is no excuse for not being there

The diplomatic dad

100 percent for them,” Mike commented.

Outreach necessary

“Reach out to your child by asking questions about his or her life,” Mike added. “I want to know what my son’s life is like. The only way I can find out is by asking a lot of questions. And I tell him what I’m doing. I’m still very much a loving father.”

Though it can be tough being a single father, fathers need to remember that their children need them, said Elliott Katz on Aish.com. Katz is the single father of two daughters. They need their fathers to teach them about

life. Boys need fathers as role models on how to be a man. Girls need fathers as role models of what a man should be—a father can influence the kind of man his daughter will choose by being that kind of man.

“Never talk negatively about his mother in front of your child,” Mike advises. “Say only positive things.”

Experts stress how important this is. By talking negatively about their parent, you are talking negatively about the child. Children need to feel good about both of their parents.

If you have a new family, make sure your children are part of it, Katz

Though children may blame feeling unwelcome in their father’s life on the “wicked stepmother,” it’s the father’s responsibility to make sure his children are part of his new family.

The separated and divorced support group at The Good News Center was a big help to Mike. “It let me know I wasn’t alone. And it’s one place I can go and express myself with total acceptance.”

“When a marriage ends it is a difficult time. Our divorced and separated group is made up of caring people who will walk along side you through one of life’s most difficult experiences,” said Judy Hauck, associate director of The Good News Center and leader of the group. “You’ll gain access to valuable resources to help you deal with the pain of the past and look forward to rebuilding your life.” The group is affiliated with the Family Life Office of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Syracuse.

Mike is also finding help in The Third Option Group at The Good News Center, a program to build better marriages.

The Good News Center, a nonprofit organization that helps strengthen marriages and families, offers programs at low or no cost.

For more information, see www.

DivorceCare.org or call 315-735-6210.

Avoid the ‘Freshman 15’ with healthy eating plan

A

s Mohawk Valley college students start this new school year, many are looking for ways to avoid the dreaded “freshman 15” weight gain.

It can be a challenge to some young students when faced for the first time with a daily array of healthy and notso-healthy food choices. The American Heart Association recommends college students, and everyone, know their daily calorie needs and try to create a healthy eating plan that incorporates a few basic healthy eating goals.

More than 60 percent of adults in the United States are either overweight or obese and the most significant weight changes occur in the 18-29-yearold age group. A study by Washington University in St. Louis on college students’ weight gain showed that body weight increased in 70 percent of the 290 students studied between the beginning of their freshman year and the end of their sophomore year.

So what’s a few extra pounds?

Obesity can lead to health complications such as heart disease, Type 2

diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol.

Less than 1 percent of U.S. adults meet the definition for an ideal healthy diet. To successfully manage weight, the AHA encourages people to learn about healthier food choices and know how many calories to eat daily. The AHA offers a free online BMI/personal calorie tool at http://bit.ly/BMIcaloietool.

Eat more fruits, veggies

The United States Department of Agriculture’s MyPlate.gov says an ideal meal plate is one that is half-filled with fruits and vegetables. However, all-you-can-eat dining facilities can tempt even the most well-intentioned, health-conscious student.

“In the dining halls, look at everything that is being offered and make a good choice based on that,” says Pat Salzer, registered dietitian and former member of the American Heart Association advisory board in Utica. “Evaluate all of your choices. Focus on fruits and vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy and lean meat. Make sure you’re

getting all the nutrition you will need for what you’re expecting your mind and body to do.”

Experts suggest that students choose whole-grain foods that are filling, slow to digest and nutrient-rich.

When it comes to proteins, nutritionists suggest choosing lean proteins like fish, turkey, chicken and beans.

Salzer says it is possible to enjoy some treats, as long as you do it carefully. “There is going to be a lot of temptation at school. You can have it all, but just not today. It comes down to moderation. It’s not about depriving yourself, because that can backfire, but practicing the mantra of moderation and balance,” she says.

Think about your meals

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day for everyone, but Salzer says it is especially important for college students. “A high protein meal in particular will really help set the tone of the day. You’ve gone all night without eating, so breakfast is a really good way to start the day since you’ll be busy in classes. You will need that

September 2013 •

energy to put you on the right path for your new college career,” she said.

Food can also become a way to deal with stress for some students.

“College is a time of so many changes,” says Salzer, “between independence from parents, new surroundings, and new demands. Find other ways to deal with stress, like physical activity, instead of comfort food.”

Choose beverages wisely

Unlimited soda fountains and access to alcoholic beverages as students become of drinking age are additional sources of calories and weight gain.

Nutritionists say alcohol provides almost no nutritional value, just empty calories. Drinking two sodas per day can add up to a lot of unwanted pounds yearly. Nutritionists recommend drinking water, unsweetened flavored waters, whole fruit juices with no added sugar, low fat or skim milk and limiting soda to special occasions.

For more information about weight management, visit www.heart.org/ weightmanagement.

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

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Page 5

Kids Health

Seeking a CURE

Mohawk Valley organization takes aim at epilepsy

By Patricia J. Malin

E

pilepsy affects a very small percentage, just 1 to 2 percent, of Americans.

Its causes are not well understood and still mysterious, and it does not receive a significant amount of government funding for research.

Yet epilepsy has a big footprint in the Mohawk Valley thanks to the Mohawk Valley Friends of Citizens United for Research in Epilepsy.

CURE held its latest event in memory of Christopher Donalty recently at Hart’s Hill Inn, Whitesboro.

“The Christopher Donalty CURE Benefit is among the most successful epilepsy fundraisers in the nation among small communities,” said Jeanne Donalty, whose son, Christopher, died on Feb. 21, Christopher Donalty 2002 of sudden unexpected death in epilepsy.

Remarkably, since starting in 2003 and holding the event every two years, his family, friends and supporters in the Utica area have raised a total of $1.16 million for research on a cure for this debilitating disease. These donations have enabled CURE to fund 11 cutting-edge research grants nationwide.

Christopher Donalty was 21 years old and a student at Stetson University at the time of his death. His mother said he wasn’t diagnosed with epilepsy

until his senior year at Proctor High School, although he had two earlier “episodes” in fourth grade and eighth grade. He was also an all-star baseball player for the Proctor Raiders and Utica Post’s American Legion team.

He graduated 10th in the Proctor graduating class of 1998, then became a dean’s list student majoring in business administration in college. His death came as a shock to his parents, Jeanne and Barry, and his friends.

“You never get over a child’s death,” said Jeanne Donalty. “We were never involved in CURE previously, but we didn’t want his death to be the end of his story.

He wanted to make a difference.

It’s been hard for us and it’s still difficult, but we don’t want any other family to go through what we went through.

I want people to know they’re not alone. I think Jeanne Donalty Christopher felt alone.”

Susan Axelrod, the founder and chair of CURE, was guest speaker at the local benefit. “In addition to the success of these events, our committee is extremely proud of the impact we have had in raising public awareness of epilepsy,” said Mike and Kelly Parsons, of New Hartford, co-chairs of the 2013 event.

Awareness grows

More than 700 people have attended each of the previous Christopher Donalty dinners. In 2005, they spon-

Mohawk Valley Christopher Donalty CURE benefit set

T

he Mohawk Valley Friends of Citizens United for Research in Epilepsy will host a benefit on Sept. 7.

The Christopher Donalty CURE Benefit is among the most successful fundraisers for epilepsy research in the nation, with the previous five biennial events since 2003 raising $1.16 million for research on a cure for this debilitating disease.

It was begun in memory of Christopher Donalty, who died on Feb. 21, 2002 of sudden unexpected death in epilepsy.

Christopher, the son of Barry and Jeanne Donalty, was born and raised in Utica, graduated tenth in his class Page 6

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from Proctor High School in 1998, and was a star baseball player for both the Proctor Raiders and Utica Post’s American Legion team.

He was 21 years old and a candidate for a degree in business administration from Stetson University at the time of his death.

The benefit will be held at Hart’s Hill Inn, 135 Clinton St., Whitesboro, with a cocktail reception at 5:30 p.m. followed by dinner at 6:30 p.m.

Tickets are $100 each and are available by calling 315-724-2560. All seating is by reservation only.

For more information on CURE, visit www.CUREepilepsy.org or at www.donaltycure.com

sored an epilepsy telethon that reached a viewing audience of 345,000 households in Central New York.

CURE is a grassroots organization founded in 1998 by parents of children with epilepsy concerned about the devastation of seizures and the side effects of treatments. Jeanne Donalty represents the Utica area on CURE’s board of directors.

The CURE website states, “A veil of secrecy surrounding the disease has resulted in myths, superstitions and a general lack of knowledge. This has impeded scientific progress toward finding answers to one of the oldestknown and most prevalent neurological diseases.”

The organization estimates that 3 million Americans have epilepsy, and half of them do not have complete seizure control, or only experience seizure control at the cost of debilitating side effects from powerful drugs.

“There is no magic pill that takes care of it,” said Donalty. “Thirty percent (of patients) can’t control their seizures. If you’re on a drug and have a breakthrough seizure, you’re more likely to be put on more medication.

(But) they are walking around every day. It’s a horrible thing. They never know when a seizure is going to happen again.”

Donalty is certain the awareness and treatment of epilepsy among doctors in the Mohawk Valley has improved in the 11 years since Christopher’s death.

National statistics note there are many more diagnoses of epilepsy within two groups—children and the elderly.

As a child, Christopher had two “episodes” of blacking out four years apart in fourth grade and eighth grade.

His mother said a local neurologist ran tests and couldn’t find anything abnormal. Another four years passed and he was in high school. Christopher was working a summer job at a playground and had a catatonic, “scary” seizure, Donalty said.

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • September 2013

Seizure control

It wasn’t until that point that his doctor ordered an MRI and diagnosed Christopher with epilepsy. He was put on medication that seemed to control his seizures. He continued to play sports and made plans for college.

Some children can experience up to hundreds of seizures a day, according to the CURE website. “The impact on the developing brain ranges from learning disabilities to retardation, and in a disturbingly large number of patients, even death,” it added.

As for increased diagnosis among the elderly, CURE said there is “new onset epilepsy in the aging population as a result of strokes, brain tumors, and Alzheimer’s disease. In addition, for many soldiers suffering traumatic brain injury on the battlefield, epilepsy will be a long-term consequence.”

In retrospect, Donalty said she thinks her son suffered many seizures which he did not report to his parents nor his doctor. That brings attention back to the need for more funding and research on the medications that are ineffective on a minority of patients and those that have negative side effects.

“The important message is that there’s hope it will get better,” she said.

“A lot of people with epilepsy have felt shame or felt alone.”

According to NIH statistics displayed on the CURE website, the dollars spent per patient on research by NIH and private funding in 2011 was $74 for epilepsy, $189 for Alzheimer’s, $464 for autism and $603 for Parkinson’s.

Since research dollars are limited, Donalty said CURE is considering how to partner with other organizations such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s to find areas of common interest and funding.

Charity Navigator.com rates CURE with four stars, meaning that 90 cents of every $1 raised goes directly to epilepsy research and awareness efforts.

For more information, visit www.

CUREepilepsy.org or www.donaltycure.com.

Kids Health

Big Bully!

Bullying can lead to devastating consequences for area youth

By Amylynn Pastorella

W

hile this time of year is jam packed with shopping for school supplies, clothes and savoring the last few days of summer vacation, many local students are excited and maybe a little anxious to go back to school.

At this time, parents and students should return to school with vast encouragement for another successful year and with some awareness of bullying.

Unfortunately, teasing is often part of growing up—almost every child experiences it. But it isn’t always as innocuous as it seems. Words can cause pain. Teasing becomes bullying when it is repetitive or when there is a conscious intent to hurt another child.

It can be verbal bullying like making threats, name calling; psychological bullying such as excluding children and spreading rumors; or physical bullying when one hits, pushes or takes another child’s possessions.

Bullying is a form of aggressive behavior in which someone intentionally and repeatedly causes another person injury or discomfort. The bullied individual typically has trouble defending him or herself and does nothing to cause the bullying.

“Bullying is learned behavior. I believe kids bully others due to kids being bullied themselves,” said Jodi Davis, local psychologist in Utica.

Kids bully because they feel if they are able to control someone else by making fun or threatening them in some way, they have a sense of power.

Many reasons like low self-esteem, parental issues and attention-seeking behavior are unjustifiable grounds for bullying. Bullying behavior is prevalent throughout the world and it cuts across socio-economic, cultural and racial/ethnic lines.

Epidemic levels

Researchers estimate that 20 to 30 percent of school-aged children are involved in bullying incidents, as either perpetrators or victims. Bullying can begin as early as preschool and intensify during transitional stages, such as starting school in first grade or going into middle school.

“Whether positive or negative, any attention is well received by a bully.

Why kids allow themselves to be bullied is due to fear of physical harm, being embarrassed more for trying to stand up for themselves, or having low self-esteem themselves,” said Davis.

If a child is the victim of bullying, they may suffer emotionally and physically, and schoolwork will likely reflect it. Grades drop because instead of listening to the teacher, kids are wondering what they did wrong and whether anyone will sit with them at lunch.

If bullying continues, children may be afraid to go to school. Problems with low self-esteem and depression can

last into adulthood and interfere with personal and professional lives.

Warning signs of bulling include: Increased passivity or withdrawal, frequent crying, recurrent complaints of physical symptoms such as stomach aches or headaches with no apparent cause, unexplained bruises, not wanting to go to school, significant changes in social life — suddenly no one is calling or extending invitations and sudden change in the way your child talks — calling themselves a loser, or a former friend a jerk.

React to warning signs with parent-child discussions, teacher-parent conferences or meeting with school counselors.

“It’s important for children to know that if they feel bullied, it is OK to talk to an adult, especially parents and guardians,” said Davis.

Need to intervene

“Parents should always come right out and ask their children if they have any bully issues on a regular basis.

Children need to feel that their parents are on their side and it is OK to let the child try to handle the situation on their own, but it is also important for the parent to know when to step in to handle things for them,” said Davis.

Bullying takes the traditional form as verbal and physical threatening but also appears to be happening on social media websites like Twitter and Facebook. Educating children on how to handle adverse situations is important.

If bullied, children should ignore, leave and tell someone.

Positive environments are what children need to become successful, mature adults. Bullying is a steppingstone for predators to set others back in their goals and ambitions.

Community organizations can step up to provide a safe place for children and adolescents to go for support.

One of many such organizations in the community is the Underground Café. The Underground Café in Utica is a place where many local teens find a place of comfort.

The Underground Café is an establishment organized by the Utica Safe Schools Program that offers prevention-, intervention- and diversionbased programs to students.

The mission of the café is to keep students safe by reducing barriers to learning while supporting their social and emotional well being. It is a place for teens to go to after school and during school breaks.

Transformational experience

“The Underground Café endeavors to transform the perceptions and experiences of youth by providing programming that is for youth by youth,” said Adam O’Hearn, the Underground Café program manager.

Using a youth-driven process allowed the café to be most effective in engaging youth in creative ways that

will have significant impacts on students’ futures.

The Underground Café provides homework assistance, SAT prep, vocal lessons, art classes, dance lessons, job assistance and much more to youth aged 13-18.

The facility also offers access to a gym, music-recording studio, computer room and game room in addition to giving students access to services in the community.

“We consider ourselves an important part of the community because we help kids engage in positive service learning activities within the community, while conducting themselves as outstanding citizens in their communities,’ said O’Hearn.

The biggest benefit, says O’Hearn,

is that the Underground Café is one organization in the community that offers youth a place to go where they are not judged or looked at differently but feel accepted and appreciated.

Bullying can be a devastating act toward individuals that can cause harm to themselves or others. In recent years, many teenagers in society turn to suicide to stop the violence and endless hurt that bullying causes.

There are many familial support systems as well as community organizations advocating for child safety.

To further prevent injury or worse case scenarios, a big step against bullying can be for adults to enforce and encourage positive behavior, show support and interest in a child’s performance in and out of school, and monitor computer use.

Does your child’s back-to-school list include an allergy action plan?

B

ackpacks. Crayons. Glue Sticks.

EpiPen? For more and more school-age children, emergency epinephrine autoinjectors such as the EpiPen or Auvi-Q are becoming a necessity for completing the back-toschool supply list.

In fact, allergic conditions are one of the most common medical conditions affecting children in the U.S. “Accidental exposure to allergens at school is a major concern for kids with severe allergies since an exposure could be fatal,” said Joyce Rabbat, pediatric allergist at Loyola University Health System in Chicago.

Food allergies are the most concerning for school-age children since allergens can be hidden in food or utensils and pots and pans could be contaminated without the child’s knowledge. Rabbat said that parents of children with food allergies should ensure an allergy action plan is in place for the child at his or her school.

“In the event of an accidental ex-

September 2013 •

posure, the plan helps school personnel manage the reaction in a prompt and effective way,” Rabbat said.

Rabbat says a parent should make sure the school reviews the child’s health records provided by the physician. She also suggests asking what the school does to prevent accidental exposure and how staff is trained to handle an emergency situation.

If the child is older and knows how to self-administer medications, Rabbat suggests talking to the school about allowing the child to carry the medication with him or her. If that is not allowed at the school make sure the following medications are available: • Epinephrine autoinjectors • Antihistamines • Albuterol rescue inhalers Also make sure a staff member who is properly trained on how to administer medication is available at all times and that your child is familiar with this person.

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

•

Page 7

Kids Health

In fear of food Food allergies can result in disastrous consequences for children

By Amylynn Pastorella

W

hen Utican Kristin Scanlon’s second son, Lucas, was almost 11 months old, she and her husband, Teddy gave him a homemade chocolate chip cookie to eat.

Lucas immediately started coughing and breathing heavy.

Sounding like he had the croup and knowing something was not right, Scanlon got Benadryl and gave Lucas a little higher dosage that what he would normally have taken for his age. In a little over an hour, Lucas started to sound better.

“I will never forget it was a Friday night. I kept asking my husband if he thought it was an allergic reaction to something in the cookie and neither one of us was sure,” said Scanlon.

The following Monday, Scanlon called the pediatrician who said it did sound like a reaction and ordered blood work. The results of the blood work were surprising when it found that Lucas was allergic to eggs, peanuts, wheat and soy.

Scanlon had to learn how to use an EpiPen epinephrine) auto-injector after being told that Lucas’ first reaction was an anaphylactic one.

Anaphylaxis is a serious allergic reaction that is rapid in onset and may cause death.

“After speaking to the doctor, I called my husband at work and just cried. We never knew how serious food allergies were until then,’ said Scanlon.

Food allergy is a serious medical condition affecting up to 15 million people in the United States, including one in 13 children. Whether newly diagnosed or reading up on the facts, the key to staying safe and living well with food allergies is learning as much as you can about the disease.

A food allergy results in the body

when the immune system mistakenly targets a harmless protein of food as a threat and attacks it.

Unlike other types of food disorders, such as intolerances, food allergies are “IgE mediated.”

This means that the immune system produces abnormally large amounts of an antibody called immunoglobulin E—IgE for short. IgE antibodies fight the enemy food allergens by releasing histamine and other chemicals, which trigger the symptoms of an allergic reaction.

Due to Lucas’ food allergies, Scanlon has to be cautious to keep him away from the foods that will cause him to react.

According to Scanlon, Lucas has anaphylactic reactions to eggs and peanuts.

If eggs or peanuts touch Lucas’ skin, he breaks out in hives. At this time, his wheat allergy just causes eczema and he has outgrown his soy allergy.

“I make sure there is nothing that contains any of the foods he is allergic to when I am preparing his food. It does make it difficult to feed him now because he is only 2 1/2 and he does not understand why he cannot eat certain foods,” said Scanlon.

Upon Lucas’ diagnosis, Scanlon and her family have learned how to take preventive measures to keep Lucas safe.

They have also been taking steps to raise awareness and education of food allergies to the community. Through the national organization FARE, Food Allergy Research and Education, Scanlon has been working to organize a walk in the local area for food allergies.

Special walk planned

“I have formed a committee with some of my family and other food allergy families to plan the walk because I think this is a bigger issue for children in our area that I ever knew,” said Scanlon.

The walk for food allergies is scheduled to take place Sept 8 at the campus of

Should you go gluten free?

Latest rage in nutrition is taking country by storm

By Barbara Pierce

W

hole grains are good for you.

So why are so many Americans giving up wheat, rye and barley to eat gluten free? Should you?

Some people believe it is another fad diet, while others believe there are many reasons to eat a gluten-free diet.

As the gluten-free bandwagon rolls along, it’s easy to feel like you’re missing something.

Gluten-free products are flying off the shelves. The rush of new glutenfree products into the market is staggering, an average 33 percent annual increase since 2004. Books and websites claim that a gluten-free diet can help with weight loss, autism, and dozens of Page 8

•

other conditions.

Kim Thompson, certified nutritional specialist at Healthy Transformations of New Hartford, clears up the facts of whether you should be eating gluten free.

“First, it is important to understand what gluten is,” Thompson explained. “Gluten is a protein that is found in certain grains such as wheat, barley, and rye. It is the ingredient that makes your favorThompson ite cookies, breads,

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • September 2013

SUNY IT in Utica.

Registration is at 9 a.m. and the walk will start at 10 a.m. There is no fee to register. Interested participants can register the day of the walk or visit www.foodallergywalk.org/ utica.

Scanlon is looking forward to the walk to see that her endeavors will make a difference in the community.

She is also looking at her son’s future with food allergies when he is ready to go to school and concerned that it

will be difficult to eat at restaurants.

“Schools need to become more aware and educated on food allergies and how to make sure our kids don’t feel different when eating in the cafeterias. Restaurants are not allergy friendly in our area, so it makes it impossible to go out unless I bring Lucas his own food,” said Scanlon.

“My husband and I live with daily fear and anxiety that if Lucas takes a bite of the wrong thing, the outcome could be fatal,” said Scanlon.

cakes and other treats chewy. In a sense, it is the glue that holds everything together.”

“You may wonder what health conditions or symptoms are associated with gluten intolerance or sensitivity,” Thompson said. Research has linked a variety of health concerns to gluten.

The most common is celiac disease. Celiac disease damages the lining of the small intestine and prevents it from absorbing parts of food that are important for staying healthy. The damage is due to a reaction to eating gluten. For people with celiac disease, a gluten-free diet is essential for good health.

such a wide range of symptoms, celiac disease frequently is mistaken for other conditions or is overlooked. The average patient suffers from seven to 11 years until the disease is diagnosed.

There are more than 300 symptoms associated with gluten sensitivity, including bloating, gas, acne, headaches, lupus, arthritis, diabetes, fibromyalgia, asthma, anxiety, and depression.

Why do so many people seem to be sensitive to gluten all of a sudden?

According to Thompson, recently, health care providers and nutritionists are better at identifying the problem and are taking a closer look at gluten and its effect on health. Like anything else, early detection allows for proper prevention.

Next, due to changes in agricultural processing, gluten has changed over time.

In fact, Dr. William Davis states

Condition goes undetected

It is estimated that about 30 percent of the population is currently gluten sensitive, according to Thompson. However, most—90 percent or more—don’t realize they have the condition. Because it has

Continued on Page 9

The Ragin’ Cajun

By Malissa Stinger

Lyme disease

Lyme disease sours the health of the unknowing

O

ver the summer, several of my friends with children have been victims of Lyme disease.

Some were only showing slight symptoms, while others have had to be hospitalized for several days. If you are like me, clueless to what Lyme disease symptoms are, and what to do if you do find a tick on you or your child, you will appreciate the following information.

I was surprised to find that northern states have more cases yearly than southern states.

Lyme disease is a bacterial infection caused by the bite of an infected deer tick.

Untreated, the disease can Stinger cause a number of health problems.

Patients treated with antibiotics in the early stage of the infection usually recover. According to Dr. Cynthia Morrow, Onondaga County health commissioner, it is no longer just a risk for those “outdoorsy” people. Now if you’re gardening, playing in the back yard or outside at all, you can be at risk for Lyme disease.

Domino effect

Lyme disease is a tricky illness that was not commonly found in Central New York 10 years ago, but is now part of the region. The treatable disease is a bacterial infection that starts off in field mice. Field mice then infect deer ticks, which go on to infect mammals like deer, dogs, cats and people. The ticks themselves are about the size of a freckle and can be found in tall grass, leaf litter and stacks of damp wood, Morrow said.

“Unfortunately now it is part of our ecology and it is here to stay,” she said. The health department sweeps wooded areas, like Green Lakes Na-

they are able to spread it,” Schmitt adds.

Between 1992 and 2007, there were significant increases in Lyme disease rates in 21 states, while 14 states showed a significant decrease, and 15 states showed no significant change, according to studies.

Most of the states that showed increases in the tick-borne disease were northern states, including most states in New England, along with Virginia, Ohio, and Pennsylvania, and states across the northern Midwest, including Michigan, Illinois, Wisconsin, Minnesota and North Dakota.

States that showed decreases in Lyme disease rates over the study period were mainly in the South, such as Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee and Kentucky, but drops were also seen in California, Oregon and Wyoming. tional Park, to try and keep the ticks at bay.

For humans, the first symptoms of Lyme disease are flu-like. Then people develop a distinctive bull’s-eye shaped rash at the site of infection. Morrow says when these signs appear, it’s important to go to a doctor to get the disease under control with antibiotics.

Many people don’t notice the symptoms right away, she said, and many blood tests may start off negative.

While blood tests may not be accurate right away, primary care providers are capable of diagnosing Lyme disease without it.

Silent but harmful

Morrow says the disease can go for weeks undetected and symptoms worsen. Starting antibiotics right away and maybe even consulting with an infectious disease specialist is a must.

Your pet can increase your risk of getting Lyme disease. A deer tick might make its way into your home by latching on to a dog or a cat and then biting you. However, this is not as big a risk as extensive outdoor activities, like hiking.

Are you gluten sensitive?

Continued from Page 8 in his book, “Lose the Wheat, Lose the Weight”, the original wheat consumed in Biblical times was genetically different than the wheat that is consumed today, due to our modernization of crops that allows foods to grow quicker and bigger.

In essence, due to genetic modifications, we may not really be eating wheat as nature intended. This may contribute to a variety of health implications.

Lastly, because of gluten’s “gluelike” properties, it is used in many products, not only foods, but lotions, shampoo, make-up, and even stamps.

As a result, more people are becoming sensitive or allergic because of over

exposure.

Thompson is often asked what tests determine sensitivity to gluten. She said the easiest and most cost-effective test is to simply eliminate all gluten products from your diet for two weeks and see how you feel.

Conduct a self test

Did your symptoms clear up partially or completely? Do you feel better?

If the answer is “yes”, then chances are you are sensitive, so it is best to avoid it.

“If you want concrete lab results, your doctor may order an IgA antibody test,” she added. “However, in my professional experience, if you feel substantially improved when you eliminate gluten products from your diet for two weeks, most people therefore come to a conclusion to simply stay away from

Chuck Schmitt of Cornell Cooperative Extension of Albany County said 30 percent of all cases reported have been in New York state. As of 2011, the last year of recorded numbers, over 8,000 cases of Lyme disease have been reported in New York state.

But not everyone is getting properly diagnosed because not everyone gets what’s referred to as a bull’s-eye.

“If the target is not seen and the tick is not found, then long-term infection can be a problem for some folks certainly,” Schmitt says. “One of the biggest dangers with ticks is that they’re so small; they’re the size of a poppy seed. They also like to hide out in creases behind your knees or your elbows, so some people don’t know they have Lyme disease until it’s too late.

Nymphs abound

“This time of the year the nymphs particularly are a problem because they’re very small and they are hard to locate and they are typically the ones that if they have Lyme disease,

gluten.”

With all of the gluten-free foods on the market today, be careful not to fall victim to the “gluten-free spree,” Thompson cautioned. “Do not go looking for every cookie, chip, bread, or cake made with gluten-free flour,” she said.

“Just because it’s gluten free, it doesn’t mean it’s good for you. Each time I pass through the grocery store, there seems to be another processed, junk food made gluten free,” she added.

“Instead, focus on eating whole foods like fruits, vegetables, protein, nuts, healthy oils, and legumes. When choosing a grain, pick the whole grain such as brown rice, quinoa, millet or buckwheat rather than processed foods,” Thompson said.

Gluten-free grains include brown rice, white rice, wild rice, quinoa, millet, and tapioca.

September 2013 •

Northern climes inviting

Studies suggest warming temperatures at northerly latitudes allow for the proliferation of ixodes ticks, which carry the bacteria that cause Lyme disease.

Meanwhile, rates of the disease may be decreasing in southern states as warmer temperatures there allow for an expansion of lizard populations.

Lizards are “dead-end hosts” of the Lyme disease bacteria, meaning they do not transmit the disease to humans.

Lyme disease is also being reported in parts of Canada previously thought to be too cold for the ticks.

To prevent tick bites, the CDC recommends using repellents that contain 20 percent or more of diethylmeta-toluamide, avoiding areas that are wooded or have high grass, and showering soon after returning from the outdoors.

Treatment for Lyme disease is antibiotics and, of course, individuals should talk with their providers about which are the best antibiotics for them.

• Malissa Allen is a staff writer for Mohawk Valley In Good Health.

Some experts advise against using gluten-free products if you do not have sensitivity to gluten.

According to Dr. Peter H.R. Green, director of the Celiac Disease Center at Columbia University, “unless people are very careful, a gluten-free diet can lack vitamins, minerals, and fiber.”

To learn more, Thompson recommends the books “Lose the Wheat, Lose the Weight” and “The Gluten Connection” by Dr. Shari Lieberman.

Good cookbooks for gluten-free eating include “The Whole Life Nutrition Cookbook” and “Nourishing Meals Cookbook.”

Websites include www.gluten.net and www.nourishingmeals.com.

For a list of gluten-free foods and for more information on Thompson and Healthy Transformations, visit www.healthytransformations.net or call 315-737-8270.

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

•

Page 9

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IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • September 2013

Spotlight on Business Dr. Bruce Stewart, DDS

D

r. Bruce Stewart has been practicing dentistry for over 28 years.

He knows that people can’t necessarily measure the clinical care a dentist can provide, but they sure know if their experience is valuable.

People have a natural tendency to avoid going to the dentist. They are frightened, embarrassed, feel they won’t be able to afford good dentistry, or they simply just don’t know what a dentist can do for them.

Stewart wants to address these issues head on, so the general public can assess for themselves what good quality dentistry really means.

“First, our team is dedicated to high-quality care, setting new standards for patient education, and integrity driven community service through oral health,” Stewart said.

What does that mean?

“We want to help you improve your overall health and quality of life,” he said. “We want our patients to be able to communicate to us what they want most from their experience.”

Stewart said staff interacts constantly in efforts to set new standards for patient education and best practices in oral health.

“We provide community support through outreach programs and provide unsolicited dental help for groups

or individuals of need,” Stewart noted.

How will the staff do that work?

“It’s the talk we want to walk,” he noted.

“We always want the community to be able to say that they admire our integrity, compassion, and innovative approach to how we do our work,” Stewart said.

“We want to show each individual that we understand and truly care when he or she has fears, anxiety, or embarrassment,” he added.

Stewart’s practice offers: • Advanced laser periodontal therapy • Implants placed and restored • In-house CEREC crowns done in one visit • Digital low radiation X-rays • Root canal therapy • Complete smile makeovers • Complete re-care services including periodontal and oral cancer screenings Stewart’s practice is located at 321 Main St., Oneida. For more information, call 315-363-4940 or visit www. oneidanydentist.com.

The office also has a Facebook page and its own mobile site. It offers extended payment plans through a CareCredit program.

Extended Payment Plans through a CareCredit program.

Dental assistant Carrie Jones and Dr. Bruce Stewart care for a patient at Dr. Bruce Stewart DDS in Oneida.

Do you have gum disease?

D

o you think you have gum disease?

Have you been told you need periodontal therapy?

The dental practice of Bruce Stewart DDS, located in Oneida, has a revolutionary alternative that involves no cutting or sutures and drastically reduces healing time.

You can even go back to work the same day.

It’s called laser-assisted new attachment procedure.

Does this scenario sound familiar to you?

Have you been told you have gum disease?

Were you “shipped off” to the periodontist and told you would need surgery to fix your problem?

Were you told you might have months of post-operative symptoms and could possibly have to live with

a “long tooth smile” with “big, black triangles”?

Did the thought of the whole process terrify you?

Would you rather have someone tell you that you can heal quickly, with little or no pain, keep your smile, and regenerate the bone you have lost?

That’s where LANAP comes in.

As a dental hygienist at the practice, Jeanette Smith always says, “People often don’t come sooner because they are too embarrassed of the condition of their teeth. I tell them that those concerns are now in the past, you are here now, and together we are going to fix this. You are not alone.

“Fear and embarrassment should not be a barrier to a healthy smile you can be proud of.”

For more information on the LANAP procedure, go to www.oneidanydentist.com or call 315-363-4940.

Sales Professional Wanted In Good Health is a growing newspaper serving the needs of the Mohawk Valley. We are now looking for an individual to help sell print and online advertising on a part-time basis. If you are dynamic, articulate and more importantly, have previous experience selling advertising, we’re interested in talking to you. Call the publisher at 315-749-7070 or send an email to wdotto@twcny.rr.com.

September 2013 •

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

•

Page 11

Diet & Fitness

Comfort food

Eating can be emotional experience

By Kristen Raab

F

ood comforts us.

A bowl of creamy ice cream seems blissful after a breakup.

Chocolate becomes a reward for completing a project at work.

Greasy French fries alongside a juicy burger appear to be the ideal solution to an unpleasant day. If you can relate to these scenarios, then you have experienced emotional eating.

While many people turn to food to deal with emotions, they may not understand why such a choice is made.

Pat Salzer, registered dietitian and health and wellness consultant for Excellus Blue Cross Blue Shield, said it is because “food is a universal coping mechanism.”

When we are in the moment of wanting that food, eating it provides “instant gratification,” and we forget about the “delayed consequences” of overeating.

The best way to determine if one’s habits are actual emotional eating is to “tune into what is going on,” Salzer suggests. Before eating, think about Salzer how you would rate your hunger on a scale of 1 (weak and dizzy) to 10 (so full that one feels it). If

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you are hungry, it is “good to eat until you’re no longer hungry, not Thanksgiving full,” Salzer explains. Paying attention to the physical cues and tuning into our emotions can help curb emotional eating.

The first step to end emotional eating is to identify the reason behind the action. A food journal can be useful because we can track the foods we eat, the people we usually indulge with, how we feel before we make a food choice, our physical hunger at the time, and at what time of the day we are most likely to engage in emotional eating.

What is causing overeating?

Salzer says this can allow us to see “trends” and discover if we are “overeating because we are bored, overwhelmed, or anxious.” Identifying the emotion behind the problem can help us look for ways to deal with it, she added.

Emotional eating can cause weight gain because it often means a person is getting more calories than needed. A healthy outlet for dealing with emotions is exercise. If a person has had a sufficient amount of food for the day, it is better to take a walk instead of grabbing a candy bar.

“Food is soothing,” Salzer says, but after overindulging, “there are two issues. The person overate and the initial concern is still there.”

Choosing to take a walk, on the other hand, may help clear the mind whereas candy cannot truly resolve any problems.

Another way to reduce emotional eating is to develop a strong support system or find a satisfying activity.

Calling or visiting a friend can provide an opportunity to talk about the issue that is leading to overeating, or it can be a great distraction to move beyond cravings. If eating is triggered by boredom, find an activity that can truly be enjoyed. For stress, take a bath, listen to music, or grab a novel to divert attention from the stressful situation.

Allowing ourselves an occasional treat is an acceptable part of a healthy lifestyle.

We can indulge in moderation and incorporate healthy activities, which results in guilt-free enjoyment of delicious foods. Salzer suggests walking all or part of the way to get an ice cream cone on a beautiful summer day. She also recommends getting the kid’s size cone because small cones are more than one serving at many ice cream shops. Most importantly, “Truly enjoy it. It is a treat. It isn’t happening on a daily basis,” she said.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle may feel nearly impossible. Salzer acknowledges this difficulty, and she explains, “We’re not looking for perfection; we’re looking for progress.”

Overeating or eating unhealthy foods will happen, but we can choose to “get right back on track” after it occurs. Poor choices do not have to become our norm, and we can refocus our attention to healthy living after overindulgence, she added.

Experts: Continue protecting skin

S

ummer is coming to an end, but the risk for skin cancer is still present. Medical professionals suggest wearing a sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher every day and covering exposed skin, even in the fall months.

Skin cancer prevention is becoming increasingly important; rates of melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, have increased by 800 percent among young women and 400 percent among young men in the U.S. in the last 40 years, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation.

“Skin cancer doesn’t only affect older people,” said physician Frank Dubeck, vice president and chief

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • September 2013

medical officer, medical policy, Excellus BlueCross BlueShield. ”Teenagers and young adults are at risk and need to take prevention seriously.”

One or more blistering sunburns in childhood or adolescence more than doubles a person’s chance of developing melanoma later in life. Yet half of young adults said they’ve been sunburned in the last year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Less than 15 percent of high school students use a sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher when they’re outside for more than an hour on a sunny day, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation.

Diet & Fitness

Break the fast

Breakfast considered vital to maintaining healthy lifestyle

By Kristen Raab

F

or years, doctors, nutritionists, and most other health professionals have stressed the importance of eating breakfast.

Many people skip breakfast due to the rush of morning time, wanting to save calories for later, or lacking an appetite so early in the day.

New research suggests that not eating breakfast could damage the heart, and while more studies need to be done to confirm these results, there is no doubt that Dubeck eating breakfast is the healthiest choice.

The study from the American Heart Association journal “Circulation” reviewed food frequency questionnaires filled out by men aged 45-82 over the course of 16 years. These men were almost all of white European descent.

The findings showed that the men who did not eat breakfast were at a 27 percent higher risk of suffering a heart attack or dying from coronary heart disease.

It is important to note that these men were also more likely to smoke, engaged in less physical activity and drank more alcohol than those men who did not have the same risk, the AHA reports. These results may be similar in other ethnic groups and women, but that is currently unknown, and further studies need to be done to test that theory, the AHA adds.

Frank Dubeck offers advice regarding such studies.

Dubeck is the chief medical officer for medical policy and clinical editing at Excellus BlueCrossBlueShield.

In addition, Dubeck also practiced internal medicine for over 20 years, was president of the American Heart Association-Utica Region, and has held numerous other offices in the medical field.

He suggests people need to live healthy lifestyles to help prevent heart problems, including maintaining a balanced, regular diet.

Dubeck said it is not really an issue of having breakfast as “it’s the breaking of the fast.” Many people haven’t had food in about 12 hours when they start their day. When the body is working in a calorie scarcity, it triggers meta-

KIDS Corner Most adults support banning smoking when kids are in car

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new poll shows 82 percent of adults support banning smoking in cars when children under 13 are riding in the vehicle.

According to the latest University of Michigan Mott Children’s Hospital National Poll on Children’s Health, support is strong for prohibiting drivers and passengers from smoking when kids are in the car. However, only seven states nationwide have laws banning the practice.

The poll also showed that 87 percent of adults would support a ban on smoking in businesses where children are allowed. Seventy-five percent expressed support for banning smoking in homes where children have asthma or another lung disease.

“Smoke is a real health hazard for kids whose lungs are still developing, and especially for kids who have illnesses like asthma where the lungs are particularly fragile and flare up when exposed to secondhand smoke,” says Matthew M. Davis, director of the C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital National Poll on Children’s Health.

Even among current smokers in the poll, more than one half supported bans that would protect children from secondhand smoke. For example, 60 percent of current smokers said they’d strongly support or support a ban on smoking in cars with children under 13 years old present, compared with 84 percent of former smokers and 87 percent of never-smokers.

bolic processes to create fuel to run on, Dubeck said.

Failing to provide the body with necessary fuel creates stress, which elevates cortisol. Elevated cortisol levels are linked to increased blood pressure and heart disease. “Overall, not subjecting the body to needless stress is good, and eating at regular intervals is imperative,” he said.

When people don’t eat breakfast, they are also more likely to “feast.”

Feasting involves overeating during one meal, and Dubeck says it is bad for lipid levels. In addition, when the body lacks the fuel it needs to function, it will start “breaking down muscle to generate fuel.”

What should you eat?

A healthy breakfast should include whole grains. Dubeck recommends considering any meal in the context of total dietary intake for the day. Including meat in our first meal is fine, but it is important to watch for salt and fat content.

If breakfast is the only time someone eats meat, then the concern goes away. Eating an egg is good because of the protein levels, provided the person has no cholesterol problems. Moderation is necessary.

As a society that is always on the go, the temptation to grab a bagel or

doughnut as we dash off to our daily activities is strong. Dubeck does not recommend these choices, but he suggests choosing the bagel over the doughnut since it will provide some carbohydrates and “glycogen stores have been depleted, so carbohydrates are important.”

The doughnut will lead to a crash and increased hunger. Dubeck also reiterates the importance of looking at the meal in the context of the entire day. The doughnut may make a person more likely to keep choosing fatty, sugary items, which is extremely unhealthy.

There are steps everyone can take to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Dubeck recommends following the “Simple 7.” One of the steps is to eat better, and a great way to improve one’s daily diet is to start the day with a healthy breakfast. The “Simple 7” steps to living better are: • Get active • Control cholesterol • Eat better • Manage blood pressure • Lose weight • Reduce blood sugar • Stop smoking Visit mylifecheck.heart.org for detailed information about the importance of each step.

Why kids should not be allowed on trampolines Pediatric orthopedic surgeon says trampolines not worth injury risk

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ess than two weeks after getting a new trampoline, 12-year-old Abbey Creamean broke her ankle when she landed awkwardly.

She wore a cast up to her midthigh. She had to cancel a dance recital, quit her softball team and give up swimming.

Abbey is among the more than 100 young patients that physician Terri Cappello of Loyola University Medical Center has treated during her 15 years as a pediatric orthopedic surgeon.

“A trampoline puts a child at risk for serious injuries,” Cappello said.

“Kids sustain broken arms, legs and even break their necks which can lead to paralysis. Just as you would not let your child jump into a shallow swimming pool, you should not let them jump on a trampoline.”

Cappello agrees with a policy statement from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) that says safety measures such as enclosure nets and padding have not substantially reduced the risk. “Therefore, the home use of trampolines is strongly discouraged,”

September 2013 •

the Academy statement said.

The AAP estimated that in 2009, there were nearly 98,000 trampolinerelated injuries in the United States.

And injuries peak during the summer months.

Cappello said trampolines might be worth the risk only when used for training purposes by gymnasts and divers, under careful supervision.

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

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Page 13

Massage therapy eases pain

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

Massage therapist touts the benefits of her profession

By Lorinda Fiorini

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t is estimated that musculoskeletal — the muscular system and the human skeleton — complaints are among the leading reasons for visits to physicians.

Dealing with chronic pain is big business for healthcare practitioners in the 21st century. It has been found that more than half of Americans suffer from chronic or recurrent pain and that back pain has become a significant disability.

Major causes of back pain include sitting at work, Fiorini home or in your car; stress of a busy lifestyle; sudden trauma; physically demanding work; accidents or falls; pregnancy; poor postural habits; improper lifting; and poor sleeping positions. “Weak, tight and tired muscles are vulnerable to injury at any time,” according to Lorinda Fiorini, a licensed massage therapist in New Hartford.

The musculoskeletal system is comprised of more than 400 individual muscles. Therefore, massage therapy, or muscle therapy, is effective in helping relieve pain, Fiorini noted.

“Among its many benefits, massage therapy decreases muscle pain by

releasing natural painkillers into the bloodstream. It increases blood supply, oxygen and nutrients to muscles, tissues and joints that improves circulation and decreases muscular pain,” she noted.

By increasing circulation, it reduces toxins and impurities blocked in muscles and tissues, she said.

“It releases muscle tension and frees connective tissue that binds joints, making them more flexible and mobile, increasing range of motion,” she said.

Muscle fatigue and soreness are reduced, bones are strengthened, muscle length and flexibility are increased, blood pressure is lowered and heart rate is reduced, Fiorini added.

“Because massage therapy helps the body heal itself and affects every system in the body, its role in pain management is substantial and is becoming more of a necessity than a luxury,” she said. “Not only is it safe and effective, it is also one of the fastest rising fields in the health industry, is being recognized by insurance companies and is recommended in a regular program for health management.”

• Lorinda Fiorini is the owner of Lorinda Fiorini, LMT Massage Therapy in New Hartford.

Study: Physicians are overprescribing antibiotics

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hen U.S. physicians prescribe antibiotics, more than 60 percent of the time they choose some of the strongest types of antibiotics, referred to as “broad spectrum,” which are capable of killing multiple kinds of bacteria, University of Utah researchers show in a new study.

Unfortunately, in more than 25 percent of cases studied, such prescriptions are useless because the infection stems from a virus, which cannot be treated with antibiotics.

This overuse of antibiotics has a number of downsides, including that these types of drugs kill more of the “good” bacteria found in our bodies — which may lead to more side effects — and also contribute to the growth of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, according to Adam L. Hersh, an infectious disease expert, assistant professor of pediatrics at the University of Utah School of Medicine and senior author on a study published July 29 in the Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy.

Discerning whether an infection is viral or bacterial can be tricky, according to Hersh, which probably accounts for much of the overuse of antibiotics.

“It seems that the natural bias, when there is uncertainty about an infection’s cause, is to err on the side of prescribing antibiotics,” he says. “Our study found that the majority of prescriptions are for antibiotics that kill a wider Page 14

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range of bacteria, and that they are most likely to be given when they’re not needed, such as in cases of viral infections.”

The types of illnesses where doctors seem to choose stronger antibiotics include respiratory problems, skin infections and urinary tract infections, which in many cases would be better treated by other antibiotics that are less likely to cause resistance.

Antibiotic overuse among children and adults is a serious problem and a threat to everyone’s health, according to Hersh, Andrew T. Pavia, also an infectious disease expert and a medical epidemiologist at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention “The biggest problem with using antibiotics when they’re not needed is the development of antibiotic resistance, which is when bacteria survive by outsmarting the antibiotic,” she says. “Common infections become difficult to treat, and when you really need an antibiotic, it may not work.”

He urges patients to play a larger role by asking their doctor two questions: Do I really need this antibiotic?

And, is this antibiotic the best choice for my infection?

“Both doctors and patients have a role in ensuring the effectiveness of antibiotics is preserved by using them only when needed,” Hersh says.

Get your benefit verification letter online Do you need a letter from Social Security verifying your benefits? The fastest, easiest, most convenient way to get a benefit verification letter these days is to go online to www.socialsecurity.gov.

You may need a benefit verification letter for a number of reasons.

Perhaps you need proof of income for a loan or to verify your monthly income for housing, or state or local benefits.

You may need proof of your current Medicare health insurance status. In some cases, a person may need proof of retirement status, disability status, or age. For any of these situations, a benefit verification letter will provide the proof you need.

Sometimes a benefit verification letter is called a budget letter, benefits letter, proof of income letter, or proof of award letter. Don’t let the different titles confuse you; they are all the same thing: a benefit verification letter.

Whatever the reason you need your benefit verification letter, you can get yours immediately online for free.

To get your benefit verification letter, simply visit us online at www.socialsecurity.gov/myaccount and set up a my Social Security account. To create an account, you must provide some per-

Q&A

Q: Are Social Security numbers reassigned after a person dies?

A: No. We do not reassign Social Security numbers. In all, we have assigned more than 460 million Social Security numbers. Each year we assign about 5.5 million new numbers.

There are over one billion combinations of the nine-digit Social Security number. As a result, the current system has enough new numbers to last for several more generations.

Q: Can I apply online for retirement benefits?

A: Yes. In fact, almost half of all individuals apply for retirement benefits online. Join the millions of Americans who have saved a trip to a Social Security office and applied the quickest and easiest way—online. In as little as 15 minutes you can submit your application electronically. In most cases, once you’ve submitted your application, you’re done and there are no forms to sign or documents to send in.

If we do need more information to process your application, a representative will contact you. For more information about applying online, visit our website at www.socialsecurity.gov or call us toll-free at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778).

Q: If both my spouse and I are entitled to Social Security benefits based on our own work records, is there any reduction in our payments because we

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • September 2013

sonal information about yourself and give us answers to some questions that only you are likely to know.

They are the same types of questions you would encounter if you were trying to open an online account at a financial institution or obtain your credit report.

Next, you create a unique username and password that you will use to access your online account. This process protects you and keeps your personal Social Security information private.

Once you’ve established your account, it will be simple for you to come back and transact business with Social Security in the future. For example, in addition to getting another benefit verification letter in the next year or two, you can check your benefit and payment information as well as your earnings record. You also can change your address, phone number, and direct deposit information.

So remember: there’s no need to fight traffic and visit a busy government office in order to obtain proof of your benefits. Simply visit www. socialsecurity.gov/myaccount and establish a my Social Security account so you can obtain your benefit verification letter online in a matter of minutes.

are married?

A: No. We independently calculate each person’s Social Security benefit amount. Each spouse receives a monthly benefit amount based on his or her own earnings. Couples are not penalized simply because they are married. If one member of the couple earned low wages or did not earn enough Social Security credits to be eligible for retirement benefits, he or she may be eligible to receive benefits as a spouse.

Q: If I go back to work, will I automatically lose my Social Security disability benefits?

A: No, Social Security has several work incentive programs to help people who want to work. You may be able to receive monthly benefits and continue your health care coverage during a trial work period. For information about Social Security’s work incentives and how they can help you return to work, you should: • Visit our special work site at www.socialsecurity.gov/work; • See the Red Book on work incentives at www.socialsecurity.gov/redbook; or • Check out our publications at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs and type “work” in the search box.

For more information, visit our website at www.socialsecurity.gov or call us toll-free at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778).

Between You and Me

By Barbara Pierce

Ending a relationship

By Jim Miller

Be graceful upon exiting

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or a long time, maybe from near the beginning, I knew I had to end this rebound relationship that I have been in for several months.

Now I know for sure that he is not the man with whom I want to spend the last years of my life. He was right for a transition, a transition from my marriage of 20 years while I figured out what I wanted to do next.

Being with him did help me figure out what I wanted to do next, and I know it isn’t being with him.

“Endings aren’t bad things, they just mean that something else is about to begin,” succinctly said C. Joybell C., known for her philosophical writings.

Yes, I must end this relationship, so something Pierce else can begin.

“There’s a trick to the ‘graceful exit.’ It begins with the vision to recognize when a job, a life stage, or a relationship is over—and let it go,” said Ellen Goodman, journalist and Pulitzer Prize-winning syndicated columnist.

She’s about my age; she gets it.

“It means leaving what’s over without denying its validity or its past importance to our lives. It involves a sense of future, a belief that every exit line is an entry that we are moving up, rather than out,” she added.

This relationship was important to my life. I learned much from him. I learned that I do want another partner, a partner who will care about me when I become ill, not just one who wants me to care for him.

After all, at my age, there is a certainty that tough times will be ahead, health wise. Last stages of life can be brutal, and a caring partner with whom to share the blows is something I want.

I’ll be there caring for him and I’d like to think he will be there caring for me.

This man I must leave has never learned about caring and giving, just taking.

And, from him, I learned that I want a partner who is optimistic and cheerful, not one who has a dim, pessimistic view of life and people. And I want someone who is reasonably trusting of others, like me, not suspicious.

Be compassionate

Endings must be done with grace and compassion. There may be 50 ways to leave a lover, as the song goes, but I believe that the only way to leave is with compassion for the other.

If we end with bitterness, or with a feeling we have been wronged, or we are victims, we need to explore what

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Call 749-7070 today!

our part in creating those feelings is so that we do not make the same mistakes again. We need to ask ourselves: “I chose this person, I stayed with this person, so what does that say about me?”

“If you want to forget someone, never hate him or her.

Everything and everyone that you hate is engraved upon your heart. If you want to let go of something, if you want to forget, you cannot hate,” C. JoyBell C. said.

I’ve had endings where I did hate him for hurting me. For not wanting me as much as I wanted him. I had to work hard to get rid of that hurt. But I’d like to think I’ve gained in the wisdom of knowing how to leave gracefully. But I sense I could be sucked back into the hurt.

Make sure you understand why you are ending this relationship.

Sometimes the surface reason isn’t the real reason. Dig deep within yourself to find the real reason. Being surrounded by the situation can cloud your judgment. Separate yourself from the situation and spend time alone. This will help you gain the clarity you need.

Be honest with yourself and the other person.

It is important to understand your needs in a relationship and the qualities you want in a mate, advise the experts. Don’t compromise the qualities that are essential to you. Don’t expect you can change your partner if those qualities are missing. We can’t change others; behavior patterns are hardwired into our brains. We can only change ourselves.

If we stay in a relationship when we know there isn’t a fit, it becomes our problem. We need to ask ourselves: What do I need to learn? Usually it’s a tough lesson.

As you grow, you will more quickly be able to see when there is potential for a good relationship. You will also be attracted to others who are also growing and more likely to be a worthy companion for you on the journey.

Somewhere out there, I know, is a worthy companion for me on my journey.

• 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.

Music therapy for Alzheimer’s patients Dear Savvy Senior, What can you tell me about music therapy for Alzheimer’s patients? I’m helping my dad take care of my 80-year-old mother who has mid-stage Alzheimer’s disease and thought it might be something worth trying. How do we proceed?

Unmusical Mary Dear Mary, Music has amazing power, especially for people with Alzheimer’s disease. Studies have shown that listening to familiar music can significantly improve mood and alertness, reduce agitation, and can help with a number of behavioral issues that are common in the middle stages of the disease. Even in the late stages of Alzheimer’s a person may be able to tap a beat or sing lyrics to a song from childhood.

Sitting and listening to music together can also provide a way for you and your dad to connect and bond with your mom, even after she stops recognizing your names and faces. Here are a few tips to help you create a music therapy program for your mom.

Create a playlist Your first step is to identify the music that’s familiar and enjoyable to your mom. Does she like jazz, classical or Frank Sinatra? What songs make her want to get up and dance? Then go back to the era when she was a teenager through their early 20s. Research shows that music during this time period seems to get the best response and triggers the most memories.

If you need some help creating a playlist, the Institute for Music and Neurologic Function provides a suggested list of top songs by era and genre on its website at musictherapy. imnf.org — click on “Outpatient Services,” then on “Top 10’s For Memory.”

The website pandora.com will also tailor a radio station to match your

September 2013 •

mom’s musical taste when you select an artist, song or genre. And musicandmemory.org offers a free guide to creating a personalized playlist.

You can also get help from a music therapist. The American Music Therapy Association offers a national directory of more than 6,000 therapists at musictherapy.org to help you find someone in your area.

To keep things fresh, it’s best to create a diverse playlist of numerous artists, with no more than five to 10 songs per artist. It’s also important to keep tweaking their playlist. Every week or so, ask your mom which songs she likes and which ones are just so-so.

Remove the so-so ones, and build on the successful ones so you end up with 100 or 200 songs that all resonate.

Music delivery There are a number of ways you can deliver your mom’s favorite music: a digital listening device, CD player, a computer or tablet, or even an old record player. If you don’t have any music and are on a tight budget, check with your local public library. It may have CD selections you can check out.

Digital listening devices like an iPod or MP3 player are the most convenient and widely used options among music therapists for delivering music, because they’re easy to add and remove songs from.

The $49 Apple iPod Shuffle (apple. com/ipod-shuffle), and $40 SanDisk Sansa Clip MP3 Player (sandisk.com) that require headphones, and the $60 Peabod SweetPea3 MP3 Player (sweetpeatoyco.com) which has an external speaker, are three excellent devices that are extremely simple to use and very affordable.

Another option to consider for listening to music together is through an Internet radio service like spotify. com and rhapsody.com. These services will let you create a customized playlist (for free or a small monthly subscription fee) that your mom and you can listen to via computer, mobile device, home entertainment system, or a home Internet radio like the $180 Logitech UE Smart Radio (ue.logitech.com), which is a great alternative that’s simple to use and compatible with most online radio services.

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

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Page 15

CALENDAR of

HEALTH EVENTS

Continued from Page 2 impaired driving and how to keep you and your passengers safe.

Health Night is a free monthly lecture series. Advance registration is not required. Refreshments will be served.

Sept. 6

CNY diabetes education program offers foot clinic Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare’s Central New York Diabetes Education Program is offering a free “Knock Your Socks Off!” foot clinic for people with diabetes at noon on Sept. 6.

The event will take place at the CNY Diabetes Education Program office located on the fourth floor of the Faxton Campus of FSLH, 1676 Sunset Ave., Utica.

An area podiatrist will conduct a brief educational seminar followed by a personal foot exam.

For more information or to register, call CNY Diabetes at 315-624-5620.

Central New York Diabetes Education Program is a cooperative effort of FSLH and St. Elizabeth Medical Center in Utica.

Sept. 8

Perinatal Network to hold scavenger hunt race The Mohawk Valley Perinatal Network recently announced the first annual “Run, Sherlock, Run!” “Run, Sherlock, Run!” is the first annual scavenger hunt race in the Mohawk Valley. It will be held Sept. 8 and will start from Hanna Park.

Clues will be provided to teams of runners, directing them to 10 secret checkpoints in downtown Utica.

Prizes will be awarded to the topthree teams finding all checkpoints in the shortest time, and a post-race party will be offered to participants.

Teams of two, three or four runners can register at a cost of $30 per person through Active.com or by mail at Perinatal Network, 1000 Cornelia St., 2nd Floor, Utica, N.Y. 13502.

Participation is capped at 300 runners.

All proceeds will benefit Mohawk Valley Perinatal Network, Inc. For more information about getting involved in “Run, Sherlock, Run!” visit www.runsherlockrun.com or call 7324657.

Sponsorship and volunteer opportunities are available.

Sept. 8

Separated? Divorced? There is support out there The separated and divorced support group meets from 5-6:30 p.m. every other Sunday at The Good News Center, 10475 Cosby Manor Road, Utica.

The next meeting will be Sept. 8.

The group is free and open to all.

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

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Sept. 9

Tourney to benefit Sitrin’s military rehab program The inaugural “Tournament of Valor—The Ultimate Drive for Our Nation’s Heroes” will be held Sept. 9 at the Yahnundasis Golf Club in New Hartford.

The Sitrin Foundation is presenting the military-inspired tournament, made possible by presenting sponsor First Niagara Bank.

It will bring the community together with active-duty service members and veterans for an enjoyable day on the greens.

Proceeds from the event will benefit Sitrin’s military rehabilitation program, which is specifically designed to treat wounded warriors with post-traumatic stress, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, amputation, and other combat-related conditions.

The tournament fee is $250 per golfer and includes cart, greens fees and a gift.

Sponsorship opportunities are also available. For registration and sponsorship information, visit www.sitrin.com or call 315-737-2416.

Sept. 9

FSLH launches cancer support forum Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare’s Regional Cancer Center is launching a new support forum for patients and cancer survivors beginning Sept. 9.

The forum will meet at 6 p.m. the second Monday of every month in The Regional Cancer Center’s fireplace lounge on the main floor of Faxton Campus, 1676 Sunset Ave., Utica.

The forum offers support to anyone who has received a cancer diagnosis.

Light refreshments will be served.

For more information or to RSVP, call 315-624-5241.

Sept. 10

Quit smoking program set to begin The Tri-County Quits Tobacco Cessation Program is offering a three-part 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. Sept. 10, 17 and 24 at The Regional Cancer Center at Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare, 1676 Sunset Ave., Utica.

The Fresh Start program is designed to help individuals quit smoking by providing essential information, skills for coping with cravings and group support.

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

Sept. 12

AKC Memorial Golf Tournament slated The sixth annual AKC Memorial Golf Tournament will be held at 9 a.m.

Sept. 22 at Beaver Creek Golf Club, Rome-Taberg Road, Rome.

The format is a two-man scramble.

The cost is $5 per person, and food will be provided at the turn.

For more information or to register, call Adam at 935-3166 or Beaver Creek at 337-0920.

Pre-registration is requested by Sept. 12.

The Relay for Life event raises money for the American Cancer Society.

health network, is teaming up to offer the public a free course through the New York state diabetes prevention program.

“Diabetes Prevention — Knowledge for a Healthy Future” will be presented from 6-7 p.m. Sept. 18, and will meet every Wednesday for 16 weeks at Little Falls Hospital on the fourth floor in Conference Room A. Those interested in attending the program can contact Herkimer County HealthNet at 315-867-1552 or email eenea@herkimercounty.org.

Sept. 20

StageWorks to present ‘Puff the Magic Dragon’

Abraham House will be conducting a bottle and can drive from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. Sept. 14.

Abraham House will be collecting bottles in its parking lot located at 1203 Kemble St., Utica.

Bottles and cans can be dropped anytime during the week of Sept. 9 at Abraham House as well.

For further information, call Abraham House at 733-8210.

Abraham House provides a secure and loving home without charge to the terminally ill in the community.

StageWorks, a community and family services program of The Arc, Oneida-Lewis Chapter, will present “Puff the Magic Dragon” at 7 p.m.

Sept. 20 at the Clinton Central School District’s Performing Arts Center in Clinton.

“Puff”, written and directed by Ellie Hadity, is a whimsical musical that will delight children and adults alike.

The show is open to the public.

Tickets are $10 and may be purchased at the door, in advance by calling 315-272-1740, or online at www. thearcolc.org.

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.

Sept. 14

Sept. 20

Rome Memorial Hospital’s annual Community Health Fair will take place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sept. 14 at at the Kennedy Arena, 500 W. Embargo St., Rome.

There will be flu shots for adults, free screenings, health information and numerous educational displays.

Advance registration is not required to attend the free community health fair.

Refreshments will be served. For more information, call 338-7143.

The Good News Center will present a two-part series featuring the Rev. John Quinn’s presentation on the letters of St. Therese.

It will be held from 10 a.m. to noon Sept. 25 and Oct. 9 at The Good News Center, 10475 Cosby Manor Road, Utica.

The cost is $10 per session.

A lunch will be served following the presentation.

Participants are asked to register before Sept. 20 for the first session and before Oct. 4 for the second.

For details and registration, call The Good News Center at 315-735-6210 or visit TheGoodNewsCenter.org— Events Calendar.

Sept. 14

Abraham House uncaps bottle drive

RMH’s annual community health fair on tap

Sept. 14

Upstate Cerebral Palsy Family Expo slated The public is invited to join Upstate Cerebral Palsy at its family expo from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sept. 14 at the Armory Drive campus, 1601 Armory Drive, Utica.

The expo is a free event that brings families together to learn about the many opportunities available at the agency and within the community for products, programs and services.

Vendors or families who would like additional information should contact Bill Mullin at 315-798-4006 ext.

400 or william.mullin@upstatecp.org.

Upstate Cerebral Palsy is the premier provider of direct-care services and programs for individuals who are physically, developmentally, or mentally challenged and their families.

Sept. 18

Free course offered on diabetes prevention Little Falls Hospital and Herkimer County HealthNet, Inc., a New York State Department of Health rural

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • September 2013

A peek at St. Therese’s letters

Sept. 23

Insight House to host recognition dinner Insight House in Utica will participate in the 24th annual observance of National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month, a nationwide initiative every September supported by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.

Insight House will host its 10th annual Recovery Recognition Dinner at 6:30 p.m. Sept. 23 at the Radisson Hotel in Utica.

Award recipients will include Sherry Coleman of Utica, former dean of students at Perry Junior High School, with the Prevention Youth Award; Craig Tuttle of Rome, case manager at Madison-Oneida BOCES, with the Recovery Community Award; and Charles Pucillo of Utica, former residential program director and board member at Insight House, with the Paul F. Vitagliano, Sr. President’s

Continued on Page 17

Continued from Page 16 Award.

Others to be recognized include the Insight House employees of the year.

The public is invited to attend. Tickets are $45 per person or $425 for a table of 10.

Call 724-5168 extension 264 for reservations or additional information.

Sept. 24

Get your dose of spiritual nourishment “Women at the Well” meets from 6:30–8 p.m. on the last Tuesday of each month at The Good News Center, 10475 Cosby Manor Road, Utica.

The next meeting will be Sept. 24.

All Christian women of any age are invited.

For details and registration, call Tanya at The Good News Center at 315735-6210 or visit TheGoodNewsCenter. org—Events Calendar.

Sept. 27

SEMC Foundation to present dinner dance The St. Elizabeth Medical Center Foundation will hold its 35th annual dinner dance Sept. 27 at Hart’s Hill Inn, Whitesboro.

Proceeds from the event will go toward the purchase of endobronchial ultrasound equipment for the medical center, replacement beds for CT/ICU, new furniture for the central admitting waiting area and the renovation and upgrade to the Mohawk Valley Sleep Disorders Center.

The evening will begin at 7 p.m. with a cocktail hour, followed by a gourmet dinner and dessert.

Tickets cost $150 each and tables of 10 are available for $1,500.

For further information, to make reservations or to bid on any auction items, visit www.stemc.org/foundation/dinner-dance/.

For more information about this or other foundation events, call 315-7344287 or visit www.stemc.org/founda-

tion.

H ealth News

Oct. 9

SUNYIT to present veteran’s expo Robotic prostate surgery The SUNY Institute of Technolavailable in Oneida ogy in Utica will be hosting its annual Veteran’s Expo Service Fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Oct. 9.

The expo is designed to acquaint active duty military, veterans and their families with local agencies that provide services such as food, shelter, clothing, health screenings, mental health and drug abuse counseling, employment and Veterans Administration and Social Security benefits.

Patrick W. Welch, who was named to the Veterans Hall of Fame in 2010, will be the guest speaker from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Free transportation to and from the expo is available. A shuttle will leave the CNY Veterans Outreach Center, 726 Washington St., Utica, every half hour starting at 10 a.m. The last shuttle back to the center will leave SUNYIT at 2 p.m.

Oct. 10

FSLH’S Campaign For Quality 2013 set Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare’s 2013 Campaign For Quality seeks to give everyone in attendance a new perspective on today’s ever-changing healthcare system.

The educational event, celebrating its 12th anniversary, features international, national and local experts presenting on current trends in healthcare, patient experiences, quality improvement topics and patient safety initiatives.

CFQ will be held at Hamilton College in Clinton on Oct. 18. A special evening presentation and dinner will be held Oct. 17 at the Radisson Hotel in Utica.

Registration is required by Oct. 10.

For more information and to register, visit www.campaignforquality.com or call 315-624-6174.

This community event is free.

Pack a fun, healthy lunch

O

ne of parents many concerns now that their kids are back to school is about the daily ritual of packing their kids a healthy lunch.

“The goal is to send the kids off to school with a lunch they may actually eat, rather than swap for something less healthy, or worse yet, toss,” said Patricia Salzer, a registered dietitian and health and wellness consultant for Excellus BlueCross BlueShield.

Salzer offers three simple tips for parents: Focus on health, taste and safety.

What’s healthy

• Fresh Fruit: “It’s nature’s fast food,” Salzer said. Dried fruit such as raisins is OK too.

• Vegetables: Baby carrots and cucumbers • Protein: Peanut butter, hard boiled eggs and lean deli meats • Grains: Whole wheat bread or crackers, tortillas and pita bread • Dairy: Fat-free milk, low fat cheese sticks and low-sugar yogurt “Parents can use a knife or cookie cutter to turn sandwiches and veg-

etables like cucumbers into fun shapes, making these nutritious foods more desirable to their children,” Salzer said.

What’s tasty

• Add healthy foods into items that kids already love. Use apples or bananas when making muffins. Pack slices of pizza topped with vegetables into your child’s lunch. Slip diced apples into that chicken salad sandwich.

• Create healthy trail mix. Mix dry whole wheat cereal with raisins, nuts (if there are no allergy or choking problems), pretzels or even a few chocolate chips.

Be safe

• Place an ice pack in your child’s lunch bag, or keep the lunch in the cooler to keep the food at a safe temperature. Don’t forget to remind your kids to wash their hands before eating!

“Parents also should ask their child what healthy foods they would like in their lunch,” Salzer added. “The more involved kids are in the lunch planning and grocery shopping, the more likely they are to eat the foods they helped select.”

Jeffrey Sekula has joined the robotic surgery team at Oneida Healthcare.

Sekula performs prostate surgical procedures at OHC using the only da Vinci robotic surgical system in Madison, Oneida and Herkimer counties.

Sekula received his undergraduate degree from the Sekula University of North CarolinaChapel Hill and subsequently received his medical education at UMDNJ-New Jersey Medical School.

He completed his residency in urology at Duke University Medical Center. While in training, he earned his program’s only Pfizer Scholar Urology Award, three yearly academic achievement awards, and his research led to his co-authorship of an AUA basic sciences first-prize winning paper on prostate cancer molecular pathways.

Prior to joining the New Hartford office of Associated Medical Professionals, Sekula was in practice in State College, Pa., and Fayetteville, Ark. He provides all facets of urologic care and is board-certified by the American Board of Urology.

Verona Health Center welcomes new physician Oneida Healthcare and Tri-Valley Family Practice recently announced the addition of physician Keith Marshall to the hospital’s family medicine department.

Marshall is seeing patients at OHC’s Verona Health Center and at the Vernon office of TriValley Family Practice.

Marshall received his bachelor’s degree in biology and Marshall philosophy from Binghamton University and his medical degree from SUNY Upstate Medical University in Syracuse.

He completed his family medicine residency at St. Joseph’s Hospital Health Center in Syracuse.

As a member of the Verona Health Center medical staff, Marshall joins physicians John D. George III and Erin Thompson in providing a full complement of primary care services at the new Main Street facility.

Through these two positions, he serves as the liaison between FSLH’s health system and 21st Century Oncology.

Prior to joining FSLH, Boulanger was the operations manager of radiation oncology for the Alta Bates Summit Medical Center in Berkley, Calif., the chief of radiation therapy for the University of California in Boulanger San Francisco, Calif., and the operations manager of radiation oncology for Ellis Hospital in Schenectady.

Boulanger received his degree in radiation therapy from the Ottawa School of Radiation Therapy in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.

FSLH director receives leadership award John A. Gaetano, director of facilities management at Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare in Utica, received the ASHE Emerging Regional Leader award during the recent 50th ASHE annual conference.

The American Society for Healthcare Engineering of the American Hospital Association recognizes members for their dedication to improving the Gaetano health care physical environment.

“This award and recognition is very special to me. Only 10 individuals nationwide are recognized each year,” said Gaetano.

For 13 years, Gaetano has been with FSLH in the facilities management department. Gaetano said one of the goals of the facility management department is bringing the dated hospital systems up to the new energy-efficient standards.

The Emerging Regional Leader award recognizes individuals for their contributions in the fields of health care engineering and facilities management; planning, design, and construction; safety; clinical and biomedical engineering; and technical management.

FSLH makes staff announcement

Regional Cancer Center makes staff announcement Mark Boulanger has been named director of radiation oncology for The Regional Cancer Center at Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare in Utica.

Boulanger is also the regional administrator for 21st Century Oncology in Utica.

September 2013 •

Deveans-Smith

Georgia Deveans-Smith has been named nurse manager for the acute inpatient rehabilitation unit at Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare in Utica.

The IRU recently relocated to the new Center for Rehabilita-

Continued on Page 18

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

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Page 17

H ealth News tion and Continuing Care Services on the St. Luke’s Campus. The new unit offers 10 private rooms, seven semi-private rooms, a transitional living center, private dining room and rehabilitation gym.

Deveans-Smith’s previous position with FSLH was as a nurse clinician for the IRU. She has also worked as staff registered nurse/night shift charge nurse for IRU and is an adjunct clinical instructor for Utica College in Utica.

Deveans-Smith received her bachelor’s degree in nursing from Utica College and is a certified rehabilitation registered nurse.

with SDMG in 2011 as a physical therapy assistant in the rehabilitation department where she helps administer prescribed physical therapy treatment programs.

“Kat has demonstrated what true excelKnapp lence is. She always walks in with a smile and her cheery attitude brightens her coworkers’ and her patients’ day,” said Suzanne Price, director of the rehabilitation department.

FSLH’s Wellness Center features new hours

St. E’s recognized for quality in cardiac care

Continued from Page 17

The Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare Wellness Center at the Faxton campus will be open from 3-6 p.m. weekdays.

The wellness center is located at the Regional Rehabilitation Center at the Faxton campus of FSLH, 1676 Sunset Ave., Utica.

The FSLH Wellness Center is home to an aqua therapy pool, and strength and cardiovascular training equipment, all supported by trained staff.

For more information or to register, call 315-624-5484 or email bkleist@mvnhealth.com.

SDMG adds to its pediatrics department Taryn Rio will be joining SlocumDickson Medical Group PLLC in New Hartford Sept. 3 in the specialty of pediatrics.

Rio is board certified in pediatrics by the American Board of Pediatrics.

She provides care for children from birth through college age, including preventive care.

Rio enjoys assisting with common parenting dilemmas such Rio as sleeping issues, feeding picky eaters and breastfeeding problems.

Rio completed her pediatrics residency at Morgan Stanley Children’s Hospital of New York Presbyterian Columbia University Medical Center in New York City.

She earned her medical degree from Stony Brook University School of Medicine in Stony Brook.

Rio is a member of the American Association of Pediatrics and the American Medical Association.

SDMG recognizes its top employee Kathryn Knapp is the employee of the third quarter at Slocum-Dickson Medical Group in New Hartford.

Knapp began her employment Page 18

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Excellus BlueCross BlueShield has recognized St. Elizabeth Medical Center in Utica, a partner in Mohawk Valley Heart Institute, as one of the first hospitals in the nation to receive a Blue Distinction Center+SM designation in the area of cardiac care, as part of the Blue Distinction Centers for Specialty Care® program.

Blue Distinction Centers are hospitals shown to deliver quality specialty care based on objective, transparent measures for patient safety and health outcomes that were developed with input from the medical community.

This year, the national program has added a new designation level, Blue Distinction Centers+, to recognize hospitals that deliver both quality and cost-efficient specialty care.

In 2006, the Blue Distinction Centers for Specialty Care program was developed to help patients find quality providers for their specialty-care needs while encouraging healthcare professionals to improve the care they deliver.

To receive a Blue Distinction Center+ for Cardiac CareSM designation, a hospital must demonstrate success in meeting both general quality and safety criteria—such as preventing hospital-acquired infections—cardiacspecific quality measures, and non-surgical procedures, such as cardiac stent placement.

Additionally, a center must show better cost- efficiency relative to their peers.

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, claiming nearly 600,000 lives each year.

St. E’s earns special designation St. Elizabeth Medical Center in Utica has been designated an Aetna Institute of Quality Orthopedic Care Facility for total joint replacement.

Aetna makes information about the quality and cost of healthcare services available to its members to help them make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. In line with this goal, Aetna recognizes hospitals and facilities in its network that offer specialized clinical services for certain health conditions. Facilities are selected for consistently delivering evidence-based,

safe care.

St. Elizabeth Medical Center orthopedic specialties include total knee replacement surgeries using advanced computer-guided technology and same-day hip replacement surgery using an anterior approach.

St. E’s welcomes new family physician St. Elizabeth Medical Center and its medical group have announced that Anila Khaliq has joined the medical staff and faculty practice at the family medicine residency program, 120 Hobart St., Utica.

Khaliq received her medical degree from Fatima Jinnah Medical College in Lahore, Pakistan. She Khaliq completed her residency at the SUNY Downstate Medical Center in Brooklyn and was previously employed by the Alice Hyde Medical Center in Malone.

Khaliq is certified in both basic life support and advanced cardiovascular life support, and is board certified in family medicine.

Khaliq’s hobbies include painting glass and fabric, traveling and learning languages. She speaks English, Urdu, Hindi Punjabi and Bengali.

VHS selects employee of the quarter Debbie Bellinger, activities assistant at Valley Health Services in Herkimer, was selected as the VHS employee of the second quarter of 2013.

Bellinger joined the staff at VHS in November of 1999 as a CNA and transferred to the activities department in 2003.

The VHS employee of the Bellinger quarter program recognizes the outstanding performance of VHS employees.

Employees submit nominations and the winner is entitled to a designated parking spot for three months, a gift certificate, recognition in local papers and the facility newsletter and becomes eligible to participate in the employee of the year program.

St. Johnsville recognizes longtime employee Residents and staff of St. Johnsville Rehab & Nursing Center recently presented Priscilla Swartz with a bouquet of flowers to congratulate and thank her for 20 years of service.

Swartz will also be honored at a

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • September 2013

“Years of Service” award luncheon in September.

Swartz has worked at the nursing center since Aug. 10, 1993 in its housekeeping/laundry department.

NYSARC trusts recreation grant The trustees of the NYSARC Trusts provided The Arc, Oneida-Lewis Chapter, NYSARC with a $6,000 grant to support recreational opportunities for people supported through its services and programs.

The Arc, Oneida-Lewis Chapter will use the funds from this grant for a Lewis County picnic and a holiday party for people supported by The Arc. The NYSARC Trusts administer supplemental needs trusts that enable people who have disabilities to remain in their home and community and retain their Medicaid-eligible services.

Information on how to benefit from a NYSARC Trust is available by calling 518-439-8323 or 1-800-735-8924 or at info@nyarctrustservices.org.

Presbyterian Homes & Services employee honored

Lesia Roback, a certified personal care aide for the Presbyterian Homes & Services licensed home health care program in New Hartford, has received the Boilermaker Road Race’s Volunteer of the Year award for 2013.

Roback and her husband Gary, of Frankfort, were awarded with the 2013 Coach DeStefano Award, named for the long-time Boilermaker volunteer and area coach. The couple has been giving their time and energy to the world’s largest 15K road race for 16 years.

To Roback, volunteering and caring for others go hand in hand. “I’ve always had a desire to connect with and take care of others, so my life has led me to do what I love,” Roback says.

She and her husband began volunteering for the Boilermaker in 1998 with packet stuffing, and today they coordinate the wheelchair race.

Sitrin raffle includes season tickets, cash Sitrin Medical Rehabilitation Center in New Hartford is holding a drawing for four season passes for Syracuse University men’s basketball home games for the 2013-2014 season, plus $1,000 cash.

Tickets are $10 each, and a total of 3,500 will be sold.

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

The package is valued at $7,700.

The drawing will be held at noon Nov. 1 at the Sitrin Medical Rehabilitation Center.

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

Proceeds will be used to purchase four basketball wheelchairs for Sitrin’s Success Through Adaptive Recreation and Sports athletes. The STARS program enables individuals with physical disabilities to participate in recreational and competitive sports.

Health in good

MV’S HEALTHCARE NEWSPAPER

EMPLOYMENT Is it time to give up the keys?

Seniors at risk when physical, mental capabilities diminish

By Amylynn Pastorella

I

n our society, we are given the privilege to drive at a young age.

We are entrusted to operate vehicles and follow the laws while driving on the road. After years of driving it can be devastating to have to give this independence up.

For seniors, giving up the car keys is a major milestone in a person’s life and a troublesome reality.

Initial reactions to giving up the car keys can be emotional and practical. Driving is associated with maturity, independence and power. It makes sense that losing the ability to drive can trigger deep fear and resistance. Relinquishing the car keys could mean a loss of control and autonomy, increase in dependency, increase in social isolation and a link to the past that driving provides.

Practically, for everyone involved, formidable problems such as shopping, appointments and community engagement should be taken into consideration.

Questions like: How will they get to the doctors? When can they go shopping? These should be answered before deciding to take the car keys away from seniors.

“Many people have gone through life being self-sufficient and enjoyed many decades of mobility through driving,” said Ed Welsh, regional general manager of AAA New York.

Chris Flench had to take his father’s car keys away as his dad was showing signs that his mental abilities were decreasing, which could be a danger to him on the road while operating a vehicle.

Bruce Flench, 85, was slowly forgetting things in his life. At first, things such as mixing up his grandchildren’s names and not hearing well did not seem that extreme.

However, when he misplaced his wallet, and his glasses, although they were in his pocket, and eventually his car keys, things started getting serious.

“In the beginning, I just thought I had to start speaking louder for him to hear me but when dad started losing valuable things he needed daily, I grew concerned,” said Chris Flench.

According to Chris, he would talk

to Bruce about the idea of him stopping driving, but Bruce would throw his hands in the air to discontinue the conversation. A few months later, Bruce started becoming generally disoriented when he would go to the store or to a family member’s house. He also had a few falls that left him shaken and wobbly.

“I started thinking that if this was happening in or around vehicles, it could be very dangerous to my dad’s health and safety as well as others,” said Chris.

Looking for that perfect employee to bolster your staff?

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The Arc, Oneida-Lewis Chapter has a variety of opportunities for you!

If you are interested in making a difference and are looking for a rewarding work experience, The Arc has positions for all levels of candidates. No experience, no worries, paid training is available.

Minimum requirements are high school diploma/GED and a valid NY State drivers license. Full and part time hours are offered in various work settings throughout Oneida and Lewis Counties with a wide array of work shifts. For more information check us out at www.thearcolc.org.

Main office: 241 Genesee St. Utica, NY 13501. We are a drug free workplace and an equal opportunity employer.

It’s that time

Ultimately, Bruce could not drive anymore. Chris consulted with his father’s physician about the issue and took the car keys away.

“I didn’t take the keys away because I wanted to be mean to him.

He was losing his mental capabilities needed to be a good driver. I was afraid he could get hurt. It is a huge transition and my family works together to give him rides to wherever he needs to go,” said Chris.

When faced with the decision to take the car keys away from senior citizens, taking certain steps could ease the hardship. Having a conversation can be an easy way to voice concerns.

Addressing resistance while reaffirming unconditional love and support will show seniors their caretakers and families are on their side.

“Losing the independence driving provides can be upsetting. It is important to acknowledge a person’s feelings and preserve his or her independence, while ensuring the person’s safety and the safety of others,” said Cathy James, CEO at the Alzheimer’s Association, Central New York Chapter.

Along with this, James said, “Some people give up driving easily, but for others this is a transition that can be very difficult. Be prepared for the person to become angry with you.”

It is a frightening prospect to think seniors who continue to drive amid resistance and warning signs could get into serious vehicular accidents that could harm themselves or others.

Welsh said age is not a good predictor of driving ability. What counts on the road is both mental and physical performance.

Golf tournament raises more than $2,800 for FSLH’s Regional Cancer Center Todd Benjamin, center, recently presented a $2,826 donation from the Sam Caporilli Golf Tournament to Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare’s Regional Cancer Center in Utica in honor of his stepfather. The first-ever Sam Caporilli golf tournament took place in May at the Rome Country Club Golf Course. Sam lost his courageous, four-year battle with cancer in September 2012. Joining Benjamin are Nancy Borden, executive director of The Regional Cancer Center and Gilbert Lawrence, radiation oncologist at FSLH.

September 2013 •

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

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Page 19

On the up cycle Cycling continues to be exciting, popular recreational activity Sonne is also working toward improving and expanding Utica’s bike paths.

“My dad was about 14 when he rode the beginning of one of the Utica bike paths, and 35 years later he rode the same path, which was better than when he was younger, but it still was not completed,” she said.

By Kristen Raab

S

ummer is quickly ending, but there should be plenty of pleasant fall days to enjoy exercising outdoors.

Cycling is a healthy activity that allows people to enjoy nature, reduces financial costs, and protects the environment.

Devin Sonne of Barneveld is an avid bike rider with the knowledge, family history, and passion to convince the most skeptical person to consider biking.

Sonne, a busy college student who participates in many community events, activities and projects, says biking is a family business. When asked how she became involved with biking, she quips, “The old fashioned way; I was born into it.”

Sonne’s parents, Steve and Laurel, own Dick Sonne’s Cycles, Fitness and Skis located at 4465 Commercial Drive in New Hartford.

It all began in 1962 when Dick Sonne opened Dick Sonne’s Bike & Hike in Utica.

In 1984, Dick’s son Steve and his wife Laurel took over the business. The website explains the store’s mission: “By maintaining such high-quality products and service coupled with a true passion for cycling, Steve and Laurel strive to fuel everyone’s interest in cycling so that they want to be educated, involved and eventually hooked on all the positive aspects cycling has to offer.”

Devin Sonne said she loves meeting “some of the nicest people in the community” while helping them “do something they love.” She enjoys watching people make the transition from not riding a bike for years to riding all the time.

It’s a family affair

The love of cycling and the desire to share it with the community is a family trait.

Sonne likes that almost everyone can ride a bike. “Biking involves mostly muscles and very little joint activity, meaning it is one of the best forms of exercise and recreation for everyone to engage in,” she said.

Sonne says runners come into the store because their doctors tell them Page 20

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Advice for bikers

Devin Sonne and her father Steve enjoy a relaxing break from a cycling outing recently. that they are “killing” their knees and they should switch to biking and alternating biking and running is a great way to maintain health and not put as much pressure on your knees and hips.

In addition to being a fun way to exercise, bike riding is also an energyefficient way to travel.

The U.S. Department of Transportation has found that most trips Americans make are short. According to USDOT data, more than half of the trips are less than three miles, 40 percent are less than two miles, and around 28 percent of trips are less than a mile long.

Small changes make a big difference. “I know here in Upstate New York the weather isn’t always the best for commuting on a bike, but if everyone took a bike one-third of the time that would make a huge difference,” says Sonne.

Gas is expensive and so is the wear and tear that vehicles endure from constant use.

Bikes do not produce damaging emissions, leading to a cleaner environment. Sonne models this behavior.

“It is so fulfilling to bike up to the store, grab some groceries and head home,” she noted.

Projects in the making

One of Sonne’s roles is as a board member of a newly incorporated nonprofit called Utica Bike Rescue.

UBR promotes bicycling as an effective and sustainable form of transportation and as a cornerstone of a cleaner, healthier, and safer society.

The organization plans to provide refurbished bicycles, education and training to the community, concentrating on children and students, as well as lower-income and refugee households.

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • September 2013

• Bike choice: Avoid a box store purchase because the inexpensive bike may need “over $100 in repairs.” Choose a quality bike and you can learn the basics from experts, such as proper shifting technique.

• Wear a helmet: Those 12 and under must wear helmets, but adults should protect their heads, too.

Some riders may feel their skill level exempts them from needing helmets, but Sonne says, “wearing a helmet doesn’t mean that you are saying you are a bad rider; it means you are saying you are a smart rider.”

• Lights: Get front and rear lights for drivers to see you. Drivers are often not looking for bikers, but they notice flashing lights.

• Proper tire pressure: Sonne says most flats occur because of under-inflated tires. Riders should check their pressure before each ride.

• Preparation: Riders should have supplies to change flats and they should practice before an emergency occurs.

• Maintenance: Add thousands of miles to the lifespan of your drive train—the “transmission” of your bike—with regular maintenance.

Sonne’s bike store offers yearround maintenance tune ups, but “bring it in before the nice weather, so on the first sunny day you are ready to ride.”

Also, ask where to lube and oil your bike in between your full maintenance services.

• Ride with traffic: Follow the rules of the road such as stopping at lights and stop signs.