SCOPE Magazine December 2012

DECEMBER 2012 VOL. 28, NO. 6 MASON GENERAL HOSPITAL & FAMILY OF CLINICS

Fantasy Forest

”another success” thanks to community volunteers... Page 6

Get moving – Belle Brex lost 160 lbs by moving & changing her lifestyle... Page 2

Belle is now off all her medication for high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol...

get moving Belle Brex lost 160 lbs. by moving and eating healthier F

ive years ago Belle Brex was 5’10 and weighed 328 pounds – and was not well. “I was not only obese, but I had two bad knees that needed replacement, and was also on medications for high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes,” she said, as she got ready for her morning walk. Now, however, all of that is history, and the 70 year-old advocate for ‘life changes’ says, “Exercise, learning about diabetes, having my knees replaced, and eating healthier – have together changed my life.”

It all began when a friend convinced her to start water aerobics in order to get ready for her first knee replacement. “We started out at the Shelton High School pool and went slow,” she remembers. She was then diagnosed with diabetes, which led her to attend Mason General Hospital’s two-day “Living Well With Diabetes” class (taught quarterly and covered by most insurances). “It was a great class! I learned how I had been eating all wrong, which contributed to my weight gain and poor health.”

With exercise and diet changes Belle began to lose weight. At 290 pounds she had her first knee replaced. Following the surgery she continued to lose weight with diet changes and water aerobics. At 230 pounds she had her second knee replaced. Soon after the second replacement she started to add walking to her program.

“I started out walking one lap around the high school track,” she said. But soon, at 215 pounds, her motivation and weight loss reached a plateau. “I knew I needed more.” She then began attending Weight Watchers. It was at this point she carefully watched her carbohydrates and continued on to lose another 62 pounds. Since April of 2012, Belle has been able to maintain her 168-pound frame and walks five miles with two friends three times a week. “I dropped from a 4X to a size 12,” she shared, with a smile.

The best part of it is – Belle is now off all her medication for high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol AND is 160 pounds lighter.

Do you get your 10,000 steps a day?

If you don’t have time for regular exercise but think you’re pretty active anyway, get a pedometer and start counting all the steps you take. The American Heart Association recommends getting 10,000 steps a day, which amounts to about five miles.

The majority of Americans, according to studies, take fewer than 5,000 steps a day.

[SOURCE: Gretchen Reynolds, “Why it’s so important to keep moving,” New York Times, February 29, 2012]

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r, Jim Dear Bri, ave my brothe g u yo re ca h e k you for th helped me wit u yo t u b , e p I want to than a in pretty bad sh of encouragement. He is Dunn. He was rds least he ttitude and wo way to go. At g n your positive a lo a s a h l il er and ut he st e for my broth m ti h doing better, b g u ro ry ry.

This is a ve ing his recove rd a is still with us. g re s n w o n the unk lways be sister, with all ally. You will a n o rs e p u yo k to than I just wanted my angel. y Dunn Sincerely, Jerr Kenmore, WA

quality

Eating more potassium is important If you have high blood pressure, you undoubtedly know that you should lower your sodium intake. You may not realize that eating more potassium is equally important.

The ratio of sodium to potassium in the typical American diet is greater than 2:1; ideally, that ratio should at least be reversed.

Experts point out that lowering sodium intake alone may not be as effective without an increase in potassium consumption as well.

According to one researcher, 1.64 additional grams of potassium a day translates to a risk reduction equal to a 5-gram reduction in sodium intake.

[SOURCE: “Lynda A. Szezch, M.D., MSCE, “The sodium-potassium seesaw: help patients balance,” Medscape Nephrology, February 27, 2012; Lisa Nainggolan, “Boost potassium intake to cut stroke by 20%,” Heartwire, February 28, 2011]

Walking is a smart way to move Movement is good for you, and walking is a simple, effective way to get moving. We all know how to do it, and it doesn’t require any special equipment, although you may want to visit www.StartWalkingNow.org to get you started.

Thirty minutes of walking a day meets the U.S. Surgeon’s requirement, but the more you walk, the better.

[SOURCE: “Get moving? Where do I start?” Heart. org, American Heart Association, 2012]

On the cover: “Salish Greetings” by Julie Johnson was one of the many trees at this year’s 2012 Fantasy Forest “Remember into the Future”.

Cover photo by Cooper Studios.

Two new hips and Bev Craig is ready to get moving again!

B

ev and Gordon Craig have been positive icons in this community for many years. They have both given their time, talent and treasure to many organizations, but when Bev started having pain in her lower joints, she had to slow down. That was a big adjustment for her. “At first they thought it was only my back, and so I had two back surgeries done outside of the area,” Bev said from her Bayshore home. “They later diagnosed it was also a problem with my hips. That is when my doctor suggested I see a local orthopedic surgeon.”

As luck would have it, Bev’s local internist, Doug Lindahl, D.O., of Olympic Physicians, PLLC, recommended she see well-renowned, board-certified Orthopedic Surgeon Fred Davis, M.D., who also just happened to be her neighbor. “Since I knew him as a neighbor, and my daughter (Cindy Mortensen, Patient Resource manager at MGH&FC) also referred him, I knew that whatever the plans were, I was in good hands,” Bev said after her surgery.

Tests revealed Bev needed both hips replaced. It was then that Dr. Davis recommended a bilateral hip replacement – which meant replacing both hips at the same time. Dr. Lindahl agreed that Bev could handle the bilateral procedure, since she was in good health and had a slender build.

The surgery took place last September in MGH&FC’s new surgery wing and Bev has had no regrets.

“My stay at Mason General was wonderful,” Bev went on to say.

“Everyone was so good to me, and

Cindy and her mom, Bev. really knew what they were doing. It all (recovery) went so well. I spent four days in Mason General, and then went to Shelton Health and Rehab for 12 days… and I have been home ever since.” Bev continues with physical therapy two times a week, and every day she has improved mobility and less pain. She has now progressed to where she only uses a cane, and is back to cooking, driving, and engaging in her favorite activities – a little slower, but with daily improvements.

“It was great having Mom at Mason General,” added her daughter, Cindy.

“I felt confident having her there, and knew she would receive good care from the doctors, surgery and nursing staff, Physical Therapy and Patient Resources.

Dr. Davis’ bedside manner is great, and he expressed a genuine interest and concern for her to get better. It was also helpful having her close to home, so our family didn’t have to do a lot of traveling to Olympia.”

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quality Hospital hires new occupational therapist MGH&FC recently hired a new

occupational therapist for its Physical Therapy Department. Ashley Yow, O.T., is the new lead Occupational Therapist, overseeing the facilitation of the development and rehabilitation of patients with physical disabilities and other limitations that affect their daily independence.

Yow works with the patient’s healthcare provider by planning and administering medicallyprescribed occupational therapy.

Ashley Yow, O.T. Yow came to MGH&FC as a recent graduate from a Master’s program for occupational therapists. She most recently operated as an Acute Care/ ICU Occupational Therapist at Rapid Regional Hospital in Rapid City, South Dakota. In addition, Yow has been a traveling occupational therapist, filling the needs of various facilities since receiving her National Board Certification of Occupational Therapy license. She is originally from Hickory, North Carolina, where her family resides.

“Yow assists in filling our department’s much-needed role of occupational therapist,” said Cheryl Woods, physical therapist, and director of Rehabilitation Services at MGH&FC. “I’m really excited to help bring a different perspective and approach to patients for many of their impairments and pain management,” said Yow. “The atmosphere with our team allows patients to reach a higher potential and outcome from interdisciplinary communication.” Yow will provide quality

4 S C O P E

care by assessing and interpreting evaluations of patients with a variety of complaints. She will help patients to develop/regain physical or mental functioning, or adapt to disabilities by implementing programs which could include manual tasks, functional independence, mobility, pain management, and participation in activities of daily living. She also educates patients on modifications to assist in independent living skills. Occupational therapy is relevant for a variety of diagnoses, such as post-surgical conditions for the upper extremities, injuries to shoulders/elbows/wrists/hands, and progressive conditions such as arthritis.

Occupational therapy also works with many post-stroke patients to increase activity tolerance, standing balance, functional transfers, and independence with dressing and completing other routine tasks.

MGH&FC are tobaccofree facilities and the entire campus is a tobacco-free zone.

Please refrain from smoking or using chewing tobacco.

Cafeteria remodel

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xecutive Chef John Cruse and staff, Laurie Jennings and Sandy Strandwold, sit in one of the new “booths” that were added during the recent remodel of the MGH cafeteria. After being relocated to the Shelton Methodist Church for three and a half months because of the remodel, MGH’s cafeteria, “Bistro in the Basement” re-opened for business on November 16. Seating has doubled to accommodate nearly 60 people, and a buffet bar will be added in January to help serve staff and customers faster.

Hours are 7 days a week: Breakfast 7:30 10:00 a.m.; Lunch 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.; and Dinner 5:30 - 7:00 p.m.

Now available in

The Birth Center at MGH Secure WebNursery photos – no matter where Grandma lives, she can see the photos of the new baby – online!

Breastfeeding instruction and supplies Options in pain management – from natural birth to epidurals.

NEW ­– “Getting to know us” tours – for new moms and dads!

giving

“Getting to know us” tours @ the Birth Center H

aving a baby is a joyous event, and in preparing to make it so, The Birth Center at Mason General Hospital offers a pre-registration and tour in “Getting to Know Us” – an opportunity for new moms and dads to come and meet The Birth Center staff, tour the facility, and talk about labor, delivery and pain management options including epidurals. “At the mother’s convenience, we will meet with her to answer any of her questions, discuss breastfeeding, labor, delivery, and what to expect,” said Mary Harmening, R.N.C., clinical coordinator of The Birth Center at MGH. “This is a great time for moms to get comfortable with us so that when the big day comes, they can feel right at home.”

The Birth Center works with Mountain View Women’s Health (MVWH) for the prenatal care and delivery needs of moms. There are three board-certified gynecologist/ obstetricians on staff at MVWH – Lystra B. WilsonCelestine, M.D.; Nkem Nwosa, M.D.; and Alford N. Vassall, Jr., M.D. To schedule a tour of The Birth Center, call the Hospital at (360) 426-1611 and ask for The Birth Center.

Denim & Diamonds raises $20K

More than $20,000 was raised this year at Karen Hilburn Breast and

Cervical Cancer Fund’s annual “Denim & Diamonds” fundraiser, held in October at the Alderbrook Resort and Spa. Karen Hilburn is shown here with Cheryl Schwarz (right), guest speaker at the event and recipient of the Fund’s financial assistance for medical expenses during her battle with cancer.

Give the gift of healthcare this holiday season

Great baby shower or Christmas gift idea 3-month breast pump rental for only $100*!

Offer good until the end of March.

Expecting a baby soon? MGH&FC would like to make nursing easier on mothers by offering breast pumps and accessories locally. Available either for purchase or rental, breast pumps offer lactating mothers options for flexibility when dealing with busy schedules. The Birth Center at MGH provides Medela Symphony breast pumps and educational support for its nursing moms, and is now making them available to new mothers through rental. For more information call (360) 427-9558. * Plus tax

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our support is needed now, more than ever before. Special events such as Mason General Hospital Foundation’s annual Fantasy Forest event raises funds for much-needed medical equipment for MGH&FC. This important event also builds community support through participants and volunteers who are champions for quality healthcare in Shelton and all of Mason County. With our community’s involvement, the Foundation has purchased items such as: CMAX Surgical Table Open MRI Unit EKG & Ultrasound Digital Mammography

Machines Equipment

Lifepak Defibrillator Neoprobe Birthing Beds Infant Warmer Bronchoscope YAG Eye Surgery Laser We encourage you to save lives by making a financial contribution Continued on page 6…

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giving “Christmas in Tuscany”

by Blooms by the Park, one of the many trees at this year’s event.

Fantasy Forest 2012 another success... ...Thanks to the support of our community, our sponsors, and the many volunteers who made Fantasy Forest happen. We appreciate your vision and your efforts, as we work together to provide Mason County with healthcare options close to home.

Gifting this season continued from page 5… to Mason General Hospital Foundation.

To make a tax deductible gift to MGHF, please send a check (you can use the enclosed envelope) to Mason General Hospital Foundation, P.O. Box 1668, Shelton, WA 98584-5001.

The Foundation accepts multi-year pledges, Visa and MasterCard gifts, matching gifts from a company, and planned estate gifts, as well as securities and mutual funds. You can also make a gift online at www. masongeneral.com. Or, you may call Jennifer Capps, Chief Development Officer at (360) 427-3622 or send an email to jcapps@masongeneral.com.

It is not too late to make your yearend contribution to MGH Foundation!

Contact us today and please look for a tax deductible donation envelope in this issue of SCOPE. 6 S C O P E

Thank you all for 2012 Sponsors as of Oct. 30, 2012 Program & Advertising Christmas Village Gala & Live Auction Co-sponsors Hiawatha Corporation Hoffman Construction Fashion Show & Luncheon Finninsula Foundation & Fred & Bonnie Finn Wine Tasting Event – “A Toast to Fantasy Forest and All of our Community Supporters” Dynamic Collectors, Inc. Candy Cane Carnival Co-sponsor South Sound Radiologists Father - Daughter Dance Co-sponsor EI. Kristyn & Son Construction, Inc. Gift Shop Heritage Bank Senior Day Tea Alpine Way Continuing Care Community

Volunteer Village Co-sponsor Taylor Shellfish Farms Travel Voucher Derek Rae, Construction Manager with OAC Services, Inc. Construction Management Celebration of Life Tree Co- sponsors Gastroenterology Associates John L. Scott Foundation Raffle Sponsors Skookum Rotary Foundation-OysterFest Dollars at Work Hood Canal Communications Peninsula Community Federal Credit Union Masco Petroleum Forest Star Bob & Melanie Appel Providence St. Peter Hospital Robert W. Johnson, PLLC Shelton Health & Rehabilitation Center Steven H. Bowers, DDS, PS Wittenberg CPA, PS

volunteers as of Nov. 8, 2012 ...................................................

Jessie Ackley Alderbrook Resort Staff Alpine Way Staff Karen Anderson Tammy Anderson Merry Antrim Bob Appel Melanie Appel Andrea Armanino Alverda Baldwin Janene Bandes Rachel Barnes Kari Beeler Elizabeth Berndt Blooms by the Park Staff Christian Boad Elizabeth Bradenburg Betty Brinkman Ginger Brooks Marta Buran Denise Burditus Heather Burns Geri Burt

Jennifer Capps Nancy Carey Linda Cargill Margie Cargill Christina Castro Centennial Guild Darryl Cleveland Peggy Cleveland Coni Cookston Tina Conklin Michelle Corral Justin Cowling John Cruse Kariane Cunningham Virginia Davis Jeri Demiero Steve Demiero Kelly Deweese Adele Dupont Joann Eagle Deidre Eaton Kristy Engel

Laura Farr Sallie Faughender Brandy Faught Fred Finn Jennifer Fitchitt Merlyn Flakus Ashley Flick Mark Frazier Tanya Frazier Future Generation Guild Jessica Gibbs Peggy Gonzales Vickie Gonzales Jenny Goos Marian Greenberg Beth Gregg Laura Grubb Jane Gruver Bev Gunkel Blaine Gunkel

Wayne Hanby Andrea Harrier Sharyl Harvey Lorraine Hauenstein Joan Hayes Martha Hayes Brandon Heggie Laurie Heim Jody Henry Lora Hewins Karen Hilburn Janet Hilderman Gerry Himlie Vince Himlie Teresa Holcomb Bill Holman Brian Holmes Stephanie Holter Kathy Howe Larae Howell Margaret Hults Len Hunt

Cindy Hall Nancy Hanby

Kim Ingham Tamra Ingwaldson

Fantasy Forest!

Event chairs Chairperson Kathy Howe Fashion Show Ginger Brooks & Marian Greenberg Wine Tasting – A Toast To Fantasy Forest Mary Anne Munson & Sallie Faughender Senior Tea Alpine Way Continuing Care Community Father-Daughter Dance Tanya Frazier Mason County Professionals Luncheon & Confections Auction Rebecca Jonas & Jeff McHargue Battle Of The Bands Amy Corley

Candy Cane Carnival Future Generations Guild Gala Heidi McCutcheon & Chris Brotche Gala Live & Silent Auction In-Kind Donations Mghf Board Members & Volunteers Linens Darryl Cleveland Publicity The Shelton-Mason County Journal Shelton-Mason County Chamber Coffee News Wine Merlyn Flakus Event & Tree Photography Jennifer Rutledge Photography Cooper Studios Photography

Marketing Virginia McCarty, McCarty & Associates, Inc. “a marketing firm” Gala & Silent Auction Jessica Gibbs Tree Designers Jennifer Fitchitt & Peggy Cleveland Celebration Of Life Tree Karen Anderson & Karen Hilburn Gift Shops Beth Gregg, Joanne Jurin, Sallie Faughender, Stephanie White, & Mary Anne Munson Banking & Cashiering Stacey Scoles on loan from Richard D. Thornbrue, CPA Michelle Corral with Heritage Bank Raffle Tickets Adele Dupont Volunteer Village Tanya Frazier Event Tickets Meghan Lucas

No-Host Cash Bar Centennial Guild Greenery Hiawatha Corporation Live Auction & Emcee Stokes Auction Group & Karry Trout Set Up & Tear Down MGHF Volunteers Central Mason Fire District Bill McComb & Tanya Frazier Site Decorations Judy Nicholson & Oakland Bay Landscaping Facilities Coordinator Denis Leverich Catering Alderbrook Resort & Spa John Cruse, MGH&FC Robin Williams Distribution Mghf Board Members & Volunteers Sneak Peek Adele Dupont & Joan Hayes

..........................................................................................................................................

Cozian Jacoby Jan Janda Pete Janda Julie Johnson Beth Johnston Rebecca Jonas Whitney Jones Joanne Jurin Pat Kevin Brenda Killian Betty Lamont Linda Lane Edee Larson Melody Larson Glen Latham John Lester Denis Leverich

Roger Lewis Verna Liles Luella Lindley Trudi Loertscher Meghan Lucas Guy Lusignan Jann Lusignan Jo Lusignan Lynch Creek Floral Mark Mager Robi Martinson Tenielle Masteller MGH&FC Birth Center Staff MGH&FC Central Registration MGH&FC Clinical Admin

MGH&FC Culinary & Nutritional Services Staff MGH&FC Diabetes Wellness Center MGH&FC Diagnostic Imaging MGH&FC Health Information Management Staff MGH&FC ICU Staff MGH&FC Materials Staff MGH Shelton Orthopedics Staff MGH&FC Patient Resources MGH&FC Physical Therapy Department Staff MGH&FC Surgery Department Staff Mason County Firefighters Virginia McCarty Bill McComb

Heidi McCutcheon Colleen McEachin Ann McElhinney Jeff McHargue Jan McMullin Rebecca McPheeters Terry Megiveron Stephanie Michaelis Tina Miller Jim Morrell Mountain View Women’s Health Staff Mary Anne Munson Sherry Myers Mark Nault Julie Nelson Pauline Nichols Judy Nicholson Patricia Nicholson Kylie Nix

Sandy Nix Cody Norris

Cole Rose Jennifer Rutledge

Oakland Bay Pediatrics Staff Jody Olsen Gerry Orr Ron Orr Jennifer Owens

Kristin Sage Stacey Scoles Katie Shrum Myron Skubinna Frances E. Smith Gena Smith Ginny Smith Janet Smith Karen Sperry Carol Sroke Jim Sroke Jack Stark Judy Stark Teresa Stevens Madisen Striplin Marnie Striplin Michael Striplin Linda Strong Vera Sutton

Jasmine Paine Shannon Paine Chief Mike Patti, Mason Fire Dist. 5 Peninsula Credit Union Staff Jim Penney Peg Stock Penney Jean Pescar Joan Peterson Nancy Plews Dylan Reeve Peggy Reinhart Cassie Rodgers

Jane Thilo Amanda Thurber

Robin Thurber Kay Thykeson Karry Trout Nancy Trucksess Patti Tupper Gail Van Coevorden Kristine Vanderwal Dave Vimont Sara Watkins Judy Weakley Judy Webb Margaret Webb Kathy Weber Heidi Westling Stephanie White Robin Williams Bonnie Wilson Don Wilson Michael Wilson Sheri Wilson Broke Wuolle

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giving

Please use the enclosed envelope to make your tax-free donation to help support MGH&FC. To make a secured donation online go to www.MasonGeneral.com

Message from the Foundation President Hello!

I have the distinct honor of being the MGH Foundation President for 2012-2013. I have proudly served on the MGH Foundation Board of Directors since 2005 and not once ever believing I would personally need the equipment that we diligently fundraise for. I would like to take a moment to share a personal experience of mine at MGH&FC. A few years ago, the Foundation raised $475,000 to purchase a digital mammography. I was so proud to work with the Board to do all we could to assist women (and men) to have the very best in stateof-the-art mammography provided to our community… and right here in Shelton. No one was more surprised than myself to have my physician, board certified obstetrician and gynecologist Lystra WilsonCelestine, M.D., discover a lump in my left breast during my annual physical exam two years ago. In a short period of time, I was at MGH having a mammogram with the new equipment. It was extremely overwhelming, and very emotional, to see firsthand the equipment that I had had a very small part in fundraising for… and now it was potentially going to change my life.

In the dressing room was all the encouraging materials for the Karen Hilburn Breast and Cervical Cancer Fund… another big part of MGH Foundation. We are privileged to hear stories of the fortunate women that have had help with the KHBCCF. Women who can now heal and not worry about the cost of their healthcare. I burst into tears!

The technician was absolutely wonderful… and very caring and kind.

Then came the ultrasound immediately following and as I was lying down I looked up at the most beautiful garden scene I have ever seen.

It was the most soothing picture and it covered the light fixture… the work of our wonderful MGH Arts Commission. I remembered Darryl Cleveland, president of the Arts Commission, giving his report from the Arts Commission at an earlier board meeting regarding the new artwork on the ceiling so patients could relax and have something beautiful to look at while having a procedure. All of this was suddenly so very real to me! The radiologist then entered and gave me the best news of all… I was okay and did not have cancer. The relief was overwhelming! I cannot tell you how convenient it was for me to be able to have this service done right here in Shelton… with the most kind and genuinely caring staff here in my own hometown. I was treated as a person… not a number… at the scariest time of my life.

MGH Foundation is proud to say that 100% of our board of directors give annually to our Annual Fund Campaign. We put our own dollars into what we believe in and volunteer for… providing the very best in medical care for the community we all live in. Please give to our Annual Fund. A remittance envelope is included in this issue of SCOPE for your convenience. You can join our board in giving the gift of healthcare this holiday season. Thank you!

Sincerely, Adele M. Dupont, MGH Foundation President 8 S C O P E

MGH Foundation contributors memorialized Mason General Hospital Foundation would like to acknowledge former contributors. Listed below are supporters, now deceased, the Foundation would like to recognize for their past support of our mission and work in the community. Please join us in acknowledging their support of the Foundation during their lifetimes.

Marvin J. Anstey Richard E. Kramer Nancy A. Byrd Joan Renn Fred Ehrlich Beverly Roberts Mary E. Johnson

Memorial contributions made to MGH Foundation Mason General Hospital Foundation has received generous donations in memory of the individuals listed below. Donors and memorialized individuals listed here reflect contributions made to the Foundation beginning August 29, 2012 and ending November 5, 2012.

Norma J. Gray In memory of:­ Mary E. Johnson Robert M. Smith Roger & Linda Hoff In honor of:­ Rick Greaves Russell & Sandra Swarringim, Richard Holtorf, Robert Holtorf, and Sheila Lewandowsky In honor of:­ Veta Holtorf Washington PUD Association In honor of:­ Rick Denison Please be advised that every effort has been made to ensure the integrity of this listing. If we have inadvertently omitted any names, please accept our apologies and most sincere thanks for your generosity and continued support of MGH Foundation.

community Women’s Health Event – a great success!

Mason General Hospital’s annual Women’s Health

Event, sponsored by the Washington Breast, Cervical & Colon Health Program; Susan G. Komen-Puget Sound; and the Karen Hilburn Breast & Cervical Cancer Fund was held in October, coinciding with National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Karry Trout, RT(R)(M), Event organizer, and patient navigator for MGH&FC, said 48 women received free mammograms. “For many of these women, this is the only healthcare they receive annually,” she added. Twenty-one of the 48 women screened were repeats from the earlier events.

“We are very pleased with the turnout and community support of this important Event,” said Karry. “Some women showed up as early as seven o’clock on Saturday morning to make sure they could be screened.” Free mammograms were available to women who were uninsured or underinsured. In addition to the mammography services, free diabetes testing, mini-massages, and blood pressure checks were offered as part of the Event.

Ruby Berg, LMP, Caring Touch Massage Therapy, provided free minimassages.

“As always, our staff and volunteers did an amazing job,” added Karry. “The Event was successful from all counts, and we had a lot of positive feedback about the setting and flow – since it was held in our new, larger waiting area.”

Best for aching joints? Movement!

One of the best treatments for either osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis is regular physical activity – aerobic or strength training. Patients who do not have severe physical limitations can tolerate moderate or even vigorous activities that do not aggravate the affected joints, and this movement helps relieve pain, strengthen muscles, improve physical functioning and delay disability.

Yet a study based on findings of the National Health Interview Survey found that 37 percent of arthritis patients did not engage in any type of physical activity..

[SOURCE: Janis Kelly, “Rheumatologists urged to get arthritis moving,” Medscape Medical News, April 20, 2006]

Coming in 2013: Open MRI Our Campus Renewal Construction Project is making room for a new, state-of-theart Open MRI unit. Many new pieces of high-tech medical equipment will be installed during the construction, and the Panorama HighField Open MRI is at the top of the list.

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caring Employee focus

Save the date for the annual “Cooking with Xinh”!

Shanna Marsh, clinic manager at MGH Shelton Orthopedics, has worked for MGH&FC for nearly seven years – starting at the North Mason Medical Clinic.

When the clinic closed in 2008, Shanna transferred to working at both MGH Shelton Orthopedics and then the MGH Surgery Clinic. In the fall of 2010 she helped board-certified Orthopedic Surgeon Fred Davis, M.D., re-open Shelton Orthopedics after it had closed temporarily. Shanna is also a certified medical assistant and registered x-ray technician. As clinic manager, Shanna handles the entire operation of the Clinic, in addition to working with Dr. Davis and filling-in with other patient care, as needed.

She is a full time Certified Medical Assistant for Dr. Davis and also serves on a needs basis for Orthopedic Surgeon Stephen Ou, D.O. Shanna enjoys her job at MGH Shelton Orthopedics. “I couldn’t ask for a better group of people to work with,” she said. “The new surgery wing is gorgeous, and such a wonderful addition to the Hospital. They did amazing work to provide our patients with the best care possible.” The new wing was completed in August and accommodates three new surgery suites equipped with the latest technology.

Reserve your tickets now for Sunday March 24 or Monday March 25 by calling (360) 427-3623.

Live, learn and work at MGH&FC

Employees of the Month Congratulations to MGH&FC “Employee of the Month” for November – Richard Jones, diagnostic imaging; and December – Robert “Bob” Bellomy, diagnostic imaging.

10 S C O P E

MVWH extends hours for evening appointments Mountain View Women’s Health has extended its hours for evening appointments one night a week. The Clinic is now open until 7 p.m. on alternating Tuesday and Thursday evenings. Call (360) 426-0955 for a day or evening appointment.

Classes Diabetes

“Triumphant Living For 2013 – Victory Bucket Lists” Shelton And Allyn Diabetes Support Group Luncheon Shelton and Allyn Diabetes Support Groups’ annual Christmas Buffet Luncheon will be combined and will take place Friday, December 14, 2012 in the Hospital’s Washington and Skokomish meeting rooms beginning at 1 p.m. The topic for the December meeting is “Triumphant Living for 2013 - Victory Bucket Lists” and aims to encourage planning ahead for a healthier lifestyle – and a longer, greater life! Instead of the usual monthly Thursday meeting, December’s meeting is on a Friday. It will be a creative time and offers a new spin on the customary New Year’s Resolutions list. Candy Mattson, registered dietitian and certified diabetes educator for MGH&FC, will facilitate the program, and MGH&FC Executive Chef John Cruse and his staff will prepare a delicious buffet lunch of salmon with a citrus glaze, roasted herb potatoes, green beans with slivered almonds, spinach salad, and a low-sugar dessert (an alternative entrée can be provided on advanced request). The cost is $6.25 per person, and pre-

registration is required by December 7, 2012. Pre-payment is preferred; make checks to Mason General Hospital and mail to Mason General Hospital, Attention: Diabetes Wellness, 901 Mtn. View Dr., Shelton, WA 98584. To make a reservation, call Michelle at (360) 426-1611, ext. 3301. From Allyn, call (360) 275-8614 ext. 3301.

“Living Well with Diatetes” class in Feb. A diagnosis of diabetes does not have to take over your life! Plan to attend MGH&FC’s next two-day class entitled “Living Well With Diabetes.” The two consecutive afternoon sessions will be on Tuesday and Wednesday, February 19 and 20 from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. in the Skokomish/Washington meeting rooms at Mason General Hospital. MGH&FC’s team of professionals, who teach the class, will cover the diagnosis and treatment of diabetes – its medications, proper meal planning, exercise, prevention and treatment of complications, stress management, living well, and engaging support people and a healthcare team.

The prevention of serious complications of diabetes and the promotion of good general health are the goals of effective self-management, and the aim of the class. Due to limited space, advanced registration is required. Diabetes education is a covered service under most insurance plans. To pre-register, call Sue Barwick, R.N., C.D.E., at (360) 426-1611, ext. 3301 (from Allyn (360) 275-8614, ext. 3301).

CPR Free Community CPR class in Jan. MGH&FC is offering another FREE Adult, Child, and Infant Basic Life Support CPR class on Thursday, January 10, 2013 from 6 to 9 p.m. in MGH&FC’s Learning Center, located next to McDonald’s on Olympic Highway North. The class is open to the entire community, and participants are advised to wear comfortable clothing. A Spanish interpreter will be made available on request. Class size is limited, so please

pre-register by calling The Learning Center at (360) 427-3609. This is not a First Aid class.

Support Groups Support groups meeting on a regular basis at or near Mason General Hospital are: Cancer Support Group – Meets the 1st Thursday of the month at 6 p.m.

Contact Rosa at (360) 456-8266 for location.

Childbirth Classes – Call (360) 426-0955 for current dates and times.

Diabetes Support Group – In Shelton, meets the 3rd Thursday of the month (except July & August) from 1 -2 p.m.

In Allyn, the group meets the 4th Thursday of the month from 1 - 2 p.m.

Contact Sue at (360) 427-7332.

Narcotics Anonymous – Meets every Friday at 8 p.m. and Saturday at 7 p.m. Call (360) 754-4433 for more information.

Prostate Cancer Awareness and Support Group for Men and Significant Others – Meets the last Monday of the month from 7 - 8:30 p.m., and the 2nd Tuesday of the month at Olympic Bakery at Spencer Lake from 10 - 11:30 a.m. Contact Bill at (360) 426-2486 for further information.

Additional local area Support Groups AARP – Classes meet at different times and locations in Mason County. Visit www.aarpdriversafety.org for current classes.

Alcoholics Anonymous – There are many meetings at different times and locations throughout the Mason County area. The Patient Resources Dept. (360) 427-9544 has a current list on file, or call (360) 352-7344, or visit www.area72aa.org/

Alzheimer’s Support Group (Shelton) – Meets the 2nd Thursday of each month from 11 -1 p.m. at Alpine Way Continuing Care Community, 900 W. Alpine Way. Contact Merridee at (360) 427-2225, ext. 101.

Alzheimer’s Support Group (Allyn) – Meets the 1st Wednesday of each month from 10 - 11 a.m. at St Hugh’s Episcopal Church, 280 W Wheelwright St., Allyn. Contact Debra at (360) 621-1110.

Bereavement Support (Providence Sound Home Care) – Meets the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month from 1:30 - 3 p.m. at Shelton Health and Rehabilitation Center. Contact Barb at (360) 493-4667.

Cancer Support Group – Meets the 2nd Sunday of the month from 10 - 11 a.m. at Faith Lutheran Church, 1212 Connection St, Shelton. Contact Faith Lutheran Church at (360) 426-8611.

CPR/FIRST AID – A variety of classes are offered throughout the community.

For further information, contact the Education Department at Mason General Hospital at (360) 426-1611 ext. 3609.

Domestic Violence Support Group – Contact Turning Pointe for a prescreening appointment at (360) 432-1212 or 1-877-923-1212.

Fiercely Independent Elders – Contact Jean Moore at (360) 898-2474 for more information.

Mason General Hospital Auxiliary – Contact Sue at (360) 426-7606.

MOPS – Mothers of Preschoolers – All mothers and children from birth to age 5 are welcome (child care provided).

Meets the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month at First Baptist Church, 428 W Cota St., Shelton from 9:30 - 11 a.m., Sept. - May only. Call (360) 426-8461 for further information.

Multiple Sclerosis Support Group – Contact Debbie at (360) 877-6959.

National Alliance on Mental Illness – Call (360) 493-6021 or the 24-hour hotline at (360) 866-0403.

Parenting and Baby Sitting Classes – Call The American Red Cross at (360) 352-8575 or visit www.rainier.redcross. org.

Reach to Recovery – Call The American Cancer Society at 1-800-227-2345 for a referral.

Teen Sexual Assault Survivor Support Group – Call Margaret at (360) 426-6925 to sign up, or the Shelton High School Counselor’s Office at (360) 426-4471.

(Free and confidential.)

The Patient Resources Dept. at Mason General Hospital also has information on many more support and self-help groups in the Mason & Thurston areas. Call (360) 427-9544 for inquiries. The Crisis Clinic also has a comprehensive listing of services available. Call (360) 586-2800.

Please note: While Mason General Hospital is under construction, the meeting rooms may change. Please call the contact person listed for the meeting room location.

As of Oct. 2012

Chronic or severe wound?

Don’t suffer any longer.

Stay close to home when your physician refers you to MGH&FC Wound Care Services.

Call (360) 432-3285.

S C O P E 11

hola Caminar es una forma lista de moverse El movimiento es bueno para usted, y caminar es una forma simple y efectiva de moverse. Todos sabemos cómo hacerlo y no requiere de ningún equipo especial, pero quizás quiera visitar la página de internet www.startwalkingnow.org para comenzar a hacerlo.

Treinta minutos al día es lo que requieren los cirujanos de E.U., pero entre mas camine es mejor. Para cada hora que pasa caminando, usted agrega dos años a su vida, según estudios.

[SOURCE: “Get moving? Where do I start?” Heart.org, American Heart Association, 2012]

¿Realiza usted 10,000 pasos al día?

Si no tiene tiempo para ejercitarse regularmente pero piensa que esta active regularmente, use un podómetro y empiece a contar todos los pasos que hace.

Según estudios, la mayoría de los americanos, realizan menos de 5,000 pasos al dia.

[SOURCE: Gretchen Reynolds, “Why it’s so important to keep moving,” New York Times, February 29, 2012]

Es importante comer mas potasio Si tiene la presión alta, sin duda usted debe de disminuir la cantidad de consumo de sodio. Y quizás usted no sabe sobre la importancia de comer más potasio.

La proporción de cantidad de sodio y potasio en la típica dieta Americana es de más de 2:1; idealmente esas cantidades deben ser al revés. Los expertos sugieren que bajar el consumo de sodio no es tan efectivo sin el aumento de consumo de potasio .

Según un investigador, 1.64 gramos adicionales de potasio al día reduce el riesgo igualmente que la reducción de 5 gramos de consume de sodio.

[SOURCE: Lynda A. Szezch, M.D., MSCE, “The sodiumpotassium seesaw: help patients balance,” Medscape Nephrology, February 27, 2012; Lisa Nainggolan, “Boost potassium intake to cut stroke by 20%,” Heartwire, February 28, 2011]

Lo mejor para las articulaciones es el movimiento

Los Diuréticos reducen el riesgo de Alzheimer Las personas con presión alta que toman diuréticos que reducen la secreción de potasio tenían 70 por ciento menos tendencia a desarrollar Alzheimer, según un estudio de 3,297 ancianos residentes de Utah. En general el uso de diuréticos está asociado con una reducción del riesgo de Alzheimer del 40 a 50 por ciento. Otros estudios han sugerido que la presión alta de la sangre es un factor de riesgo de Alzheimer u otras demencias.

[SOURCE: Caroline Cassels, “Potassium-sparing diuretics may cut Alzheimer’s risk,” Medscape Medical News, March 24, 2006]

12 S C O P E

Uno de los mejores tratamientos para la artritis reumatoide o artritis ósea es la actividad física regular- aeróbica o entrenamiento muscular. Pacientes que no tienen limitaciones severas físicas pueden tolerar actividades moderadas o más fuertes que no afecten a sus articulaciones, y este movimiento ayuda a aliviar el dolor, fortalecer músculos, mejoran el funcionamiento físico y retrasan la incapacidad.

Un estudio basado en resultados de una encuesta de la Salud Nacional encontró que 37 por ciento de los pacientes con artritis no realizaban ninguna actividad física.

[SOURCE: Janis Kelly, “Rheumatologists urged to get arthritis moving,” Medscape Medical News, April 20, 2006]

building

New seating in the cafeteria.

Campus Renewal Project

“Bistro in the Basement” is back!

By Derek Rae, Construction Manager, Associate, OAC Services, Inc.

After a temporary closure of the Hospital’s cafeteria duringcoming nurses’in station in the ED. The new station will double in size, Open MRI 2013 construction, we are happy to announce that the Bistro in the Basement is now open! It was opened last month, just in time for food services to begin preparation for the Fantasy Forest events. The dining area has doubled in size, and looks wonderful.

There will soon be a new buffet line added in the servery space, allowing patrons access to food from both sides, routing directly to the pay station. Come by, check out the new finishes, and grab a bite to eat!

With the Hospital’s North (Emergency) Entrance opening up the first week of December, patients will be able to access the Emergency Department (ED) without having to go around the helicopter landing pad. This now makes it easy to see that the ED entrance is open when you enter from the north. Although access has been improved for pedestrian admittance, there is still some ongoing construction in the new ED lobby that will delay the lobby’s opening until early 2013.

Inside the northeast corner of the Hospital, construction crews are working feverishly to install wallboard materials so finishes can begin. The current plan is to complete six new emergency rooms by end of December, allowing for work to begin on a new

allowing for better visual access to patients, as well as easy access for physicians, medical supplies, and nutritional services, without having to go through a maze of doors. Work in the Emergency Department will continue until April 2013.

There are also a couple of important projects wrapping up that many staff and patients will never see. Renovations to the Pharmacy and Lab areas have been done to improve efficiency and safety. The Pharmacy is now complete, and has received new racks that will allow for better organization and inventory control of medications – two essential requirements for safety and cost management. Laboratory renovations are still under way, and will be complete by January 2013. Previous staff access to the Lab was routed through a work station, and renovations will allow staff better circulation through their space, creating efficiency in workflow and eliminating the potential for bumps by doors opening and closing.

For more up-to-date information on construction, look for the Contractor’s “Construction Progress” board now located in the south lobby.

S C O P E 13

CMYK

901 Mountain View Drive Shelton, WA 98584

NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE PAID OLYMPIA, WA PERMIT NO 78

ECRWSS POSTAL CUSTOMER CMYK

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Our Mission: We take every possible action to protect and promote the health of the people in Mason County while extending respect and compassion as we serve each individual.

Published by: Mason General Hospital & Family of Clinics. Published six times per year. Editor: McCarty & Associates, Inc. “a marketing firm”.

Business Office: Office hours: 8 a.m. – 5:30 p.m., Monday – Friday. Spanish Translator Available. Located at Gateway Center, 2505 Olympic Hwy N., Suite 460, (360) 427-9547 Mason General Hospital: Visiting hours: 8 a.m. – 8:30 p.m., daily. Intensive Care Unit (ICU) visiting hours: special hours on a patient-by-patient basis, call for Unit hours. Located at: 901 Mountain View Drive, PO Box 1668, Shelton, WA 98584-5001, (360) 4261611, from Allyn (360) 275-8614. Serving the medical needs of Mason County since 1968. Accredited by The Joint Commission.

TTY/TDD: (360) 427-9593. Translation Services Provided. Se habla español. Equal Opportunity Provider.

Administration: Bob Appel, chief executive officer; Eric Moll, chief administrative officer; Kevin Roscoe, M.D., chief of staff; CMYK Nancy Trucksess, commissioner/president; Scott Hilburn and Don Wilson, commissioners.

Professional Way

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No matter what your surgery need...

General surgery, gynecological, eye, shoulder, hand, hip, knee, foot and ankle... we have a surgeon who is close to home.

CMYK

Nkem N. Nwosa, M.D.

2. MGH Mountain View

James A. Wright, D.P.M., P.L.L.C., F.A.C.F.A.S.

Women’s Health

(360) 426-0955

3. MGH Shelton

John V. Rice, D.P.M., P.L.L.C., F.A.C.F.A.S.

Orthopedics

(360) 427-0663

Lystra B. WilsonCelestine, M.D. Alford N. Vassall, Jr., M.D.

Monica Vuong, M.D.

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(360) 427-0366

Frederick J. Davis, M.D.

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Clinic

(360) 426-4142

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4. MGH Ankle

Stephen Ou, D.O.

John Clayton, D.O.