February 7, 2014
MEDICAL UNIVERSITY of SOUTH CAROLINA
Vol. 32, No. 24
Think it can’t happen to you? Inside So did these women until their hearts said otherwise By Aimee Murray Public Relations
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self–proclaimed do it yourself project lover and somewhat of a comedian, Kathie Faulkner had conquered everything from yard work to installing granite counter tops in her kitchen. No project was too difficult. It wasn’t until she was told she had high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes and would need quadruple bypass surgery that she realized her most important project to date: regaining her health. Four years ago, while installing granite counter tops in her kitchen,
Faulkner, 58, experienced chest pains. “I thought, oh, I pulled something. My chest hurt, but not anything bad,” she said. Thinking the cause of her pain wasn’t anything serious, she took Rolaids and Aspirin. When they failed to relieve the pain, she knew she needed to see a doctor. “I was never one to go to the doctor; didn’t like the doctor,” Faulkner said. She knows she’s not in the minority as a woman with heart disease and that’s why she’s glad to see events like the Go Red for Women campaign held each February. Faulkner, an administrative assistant in the Clinical Education Department, failed a stress test and a subsequent nuclear stress test and knew then
See Hearts on page 8
MarCh Of DiMes
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MUSC nurse and family serve as 2014 ambassadors.
MUsC Delivers
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Enhanced labor and delivery and mother–baby units attract expectant moms.
2 Employee Awards 10 March of Dimes 11 Classifieds
photo courtesy of American Heart Association Keisha Hawes, a champion for Go Red, had a heart attack at 31. See her story, page 8.
photo by Sarah Pack MUSC employee Kathie Faulkner tells her story in hopes of other women taking their symptoms seriously.
READ THE CATALYST ONLINE - http://www.musc.edu/catalyst
T h e C aTa ly s T Online http://www. musc.edu/ catalyst
2 The CaTalysT, February 7, 2014
Medical Center
‘Making a difference every day’ Kendall Grady, North Charleston After Hours Care “This nomination involves a PA, LPN, and Tech were involved, all of which I’d like to be nominated for Employee of the Month. We are new to the area and do not have insurance coverage until Oct. 1. My three–year–old daughter was complaining of pain when going to the bathroom and we took her to the clinic in North Charleston. I don’t even know where to begin or how to say exactly how wonderful the staff there was. Since we don’t have insurance we paid the required down payment and then were prescribed antibiotics. After calling the Walgreens in our area we found out the med prescribed was going to be $105 for the generic. I called back the clinic and the woman I spoke with was so super helpful. She talked to the PA and then had us ask about another med. She also mentioned the Publix free prescription list and then went as far to research the Publix close to our house, call them for the hours and see if the med was available. She then called me back to let me know and told me
Editorial of fice MUSC Office of Public Relations 135 Cannon Street, Suite 403C, Charleston, SC 29425. 843-792-4107 Fax: 843-792-6723 Interim editor: Cindy Abole catalyst@musc.edu Catalyst staff: Mikie Hayes, hayesmi@musc.edu
Employees of the Month Award
Bethany Knox
the price of the original med at Publix and let us know the alternative prescribed was FREE. We are from Illinois outside Chicago and this is something that you rarely if EVER see up there. Someone willing to go out of their way to help you. I am so impressed with the staff there and how wonderful they were to us and our daughter. Just amazing. My sister recommended the clinic to us as she is from here and had nothing but good things to say and I’m so glad we chose to take our daughter to your clinic. Thank you so much again and I didn’t quite catch the woman’s name that helped me on the phone but our PA’s name was Kinsey E. Knight. She was just wonderful...everyone there was. I cannot say enough good things about this clinic! Thank you so much! Nominated by Meredith Strehle Frank Hoyland, Sleep Lab “During the month of October, I received 10 Applause cards from patients for Frank. He has gone above and The Catalyst is published once a week. Paid adver tisements, which do not represent an endorsement by MUSC or the State of South Carolina, are handled by Island Publications Inc., Moultrie News, 134 Columbus St., Charleston, S.C., 843-849-1778 or 843-958-7490. E-mail: sales@moultrienews.com.
beyond in ensuring thorough patient education and understanding. Specific patient comments include: “Very good about explaining the CPAP machine and making certain I was comfortable wearing the mask. He is relaxed, confident and creates a sense of calmness in patients.” “He explained what apnea is in layman’s terms.” “He could explain a lot more because he wears a CPAP himself.”
“By telling me his personal experience I was less afraid.” “Frank was very friendly and put me at ease while preparing me for the procedure. He also explained the things he was doing and answered all of my questions.” This is just a small example of the positive feedback from Frank’s patients, but these experiences are what keep patients coming back. Frank shows passion, empathy, and understanding. He demonstrates MUSC Excellence every day. So on behalf of his patients I would like to nominate Frank for Employee of the Month. Nominated by Amanda McGarrigle
Dear MUSC Colleagues: On behalf of the entire MUSC community, we express our deep appreciation for the extraordinary efforts of many of you during the recent ice storm. We are grateful for your willingness to disrupt your personal lives, remain on-site with little or no rest, and work long hours. All organizational components of MUSC worked in unison to minimize disruption of operations. As we learn of difficulties encountered by other communities from the storm, we take a measure of pride in the community that is MUSC and its ability to come together during times of need. Thank you again for demonstrating your commitment to MUSC and our mission. Sincerely,
Mark S. Sothmann, PhD Interim President and Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost
Patrick J. Cawley, M.D., Executive Director/CEO, Medical Center Vice President for Clinical Operations/University
Stephen A. Valerio Chief Executive Officer, MUSC Physicians
The CaTalysT, February 7, 2014 3
March of Dimes Family Ambassador is MUSC nurse By Mikie hayes Public Relations
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ew organizations work as hard to fight for the health of baies as do MUSC and the March of Dimes. For 20 years these two organizations have successfully partnered to make a meaningful difference in the lives of babies and families throughout the entire state. This Feb. 10 marks the annual kickoff at MUSC for the March of Dime’s March for Babies. This signature event, now in its 44th year, will be held at Cannon Park on April 26. Funds generated from the walk support the organization’s key programs that so many families throughout the Lowcountry have come to count on. Statewide, the South Carolina chapter of the March of Dimes provides research grants and invests in local community services. Funds raised through the March for Babies are critically important as they support many important endeavors that contribute to reducing the state’s premature birth rate, increasing access to prenatal care and funding programs that help mothers experience healthy, full–term pregnancies and research aimed at preventing birth defects and infant deaths. In 2013, MUSC’s team was among the walk’s top teams, having raised nearly $24,000 for the effort, according to Meredith Repik, executive director of the March of Dimes. She has confidence they can beat that
photos provided
MUSC Infant Toddler nurse Arien Rannigan– Kalergis, right, joins husband, David, and daughters, Greyson and Porter, as they remember their son, Hayes, and serve as the 2014 March of Dimes ambassador family.
total this year. “The March of Dimes counts on the support of MUSC. As one of the top employers in Charleston County and best fundraising teams every year, MUSC’s
involvement allows us to continue our mission of saving babies. We are pleased to be able to support the important research that MUSC conducts,” she said. Since 2007, the March of Dimes has granted nearly $1.5 million to fund research programs at MUSC. Each year, the March of Dimes chooses a family or individual who has been touched by the work of the organization to serve as the ambassador who will share its mission to the community at the grassroots level. This year’s ambassador family includes one of MUSC’s own, Arien Rannigan-Kalergis, R.N., a nurse in the Infant Toddler Unit. Arien is joined by her husband, David, and daughters, Greyson and Porter. The Kalergises accepted this honor in memory of their son and brother, Hayes. “When I learned we were the ambassador family, I was so moved. I was going to have the opportunity to help educate people about something very close to my heart — the importance of the newborn screen and early detection,” said Rannigan–Kalergis. When Hayes was born at 38 weeks, weighing 6 pounds and 13 ounces, he looked like the picture of health as he breastfed and bonded with his mother. The family was discharged two days later and while Hayes was fussy and colicky, the Kalergises had no
See FaMily on page 9
4 The CaTalysT, February 7, 2014
MUSC medical center communications corner 2014 Employee Engagement Survey Our faculty and staff are our most valuable resource, and employee commitment and satisfaction are vital to our continued success. The College of Medicine, MUSC Physicians, and Medical University Hospital Authority (MUHA), which comprise MUSC Health, have once again engaged national survey research firm Morehead Associates/Press Ganey to conduct our employee engagement survey. For the first time, all three entities will be using a single survey in 2014, with all employees (faculty and staff) responding to the same set of core questions. Another major improvement to this year’s survey is that the MUHA physician/clinician satisfaction survey, traditionally administered by MUHA on an annual basis as a separate survey, has been incorporated into the employee commitment survey. This means the entire enterprise will be taking one survey at the same time. We will be able to review the results for MUSC Health as a whole but also by each individual entity and work group. Each faculty and staff member will receive an email on Feb. 10 directly from Morehead Associates/Press
Medical Center Employee Engagement Two main issues identified as top concerns for our employees in the 2013 survey were “Confidence in senior leadership” and “An environment that encourages employees to go above and beyond”. Further analysis of these items highlighted the importance of communication at all levels. Our response to this feedback is summarized below. Issue: Confidence in Senior Leadership Activities focused on Communication and assuring that employees are informed of activities and the reasons behind decisions:
q Our CEO, Patrick Cawley, M.D., has continued to convey important information to all employees every week in his ‘Monday Message’ q All employees are copied on the weekly message, ‘Clinical Connections’, sent to our medical staff. q All administrators, directors and managers are expected to attend a monthly meeting to learn about important issues and initiatives. Each leader is responsible for cascading specific information to employees in their areas within two weeks of the meeting. (Specific information is also linked to Dr. Cawley’s “Monday Message” two weeks after the meeting to make sure that every employee has received the information.)
q A monthly employee newsletter, Horizon, was launched. q The number and schedule variety of Town Hall sessions was significantly increased to support all employees being able to attend. q Town Hall series included an overview of the external factors that have been or will be impacting the Medical Center so that everyone has a basic understanding of the reasons for decisions and priorities.
q Question and Answers from Town Hall meetings were posted on the MUSC Excellence website so that everyone is aware of issues discussed at all sessions. q Public speaking assessment and consultation was provided to all Town Hall presenters to assure consistency and effectiveness in providing information to staff. q Leaders have completed education related to crucial conversations to provide helpful feedback to employees. q A Communication Advisory Group, chaired by COO Matt Wain, is now meeting monthly. This group of staff and leaders is providing assessment and recommendations to effectively engage all staff in two way interactions and problem solving. Activities focused on connection with Senior Leaders:
q CEO Dr. Patrick Cawley has led almost 50 percent of the general sessions of our Town Hall meetings. q Chief Quality Officer Dr. Danielle Scheurer has led a team of leaders making “Safety Rounds” in clinical areas to hear and respond to staff concerns.
q Chief Operating Officer Matt Wain visits various locations throughout the Medical Center to learn about our organization and to meet staff. q Chief Nursing Officer and Administrator for Clinical Services Marilyn Schaffner rounds with work groups in Clinical Services and nursing staff in clinical areas.
Ganey, containing a link to the survey and a personalized PIN number. The survey will be open for two weeks — Feb. 10–24. This is the survey method used in the past by both the College of Medicine and MUSC Physicians. This is a change for MUHA staff who have received printed letters containing the PIN number in the past. The survey dates changed from last year because when deployed in the spring, the survey conflicted with yearly evaluations and physician contract renewals. We are committed to ensuring the confidentiality of all individual survey responses; all survey data will be kept on a Morehead Associates/Press Ganey server and will not be accessible by anyone at MUSC, MUSC Physicians, or MUHA. If you have any questions or concerns about the survey process, please contact Frances Glanville of the College of Medicine (glanvilf@musc.edu), Michelle Wiles of MUSC Physicians (wilesme@musc.edu), or Julie Floyd of MUHA (floyj@musc.edu) for assistance. This survey is a great opportunity to share your perceptions across a variety of key areas that affect your satisfaction, and will help us improve our workplace. All faculty and staff are encouraged to participate in this important survey — we value your input and we look forward to hearing from you. Your feedback from last year’s survey inspired a number of changes within the medical center. We’ve highlighted some of these changes below.
Physician Engagement Nine issues were identified as being the top concerns for physicians in the 2013 survey. Each issue was analyzed and has at least one or two action plans currently implemented for improvement. Below we’ve highlighted two of these issues and our action plans for each. Issue: Hospital capacity/bed flow “Bed capacity” was listed as the number one concern among physicians on 2013 annual survey and we are taking a proactive comprehensive approach to address this issue. Action Plan: 1. Emergency Patient Placement Protocol (EP3) — to place patients into beds in the hospital even when hospital reaching capacity 2. Express Patient Admission Unit (EAU) — An eight–bed unit to move patients into temporary beds where they will receive initial treatment while awaiting a definitive floor bed to open up 3. Standard discharge process changes — Discharge (D/C) orders written in CPOE by 10 a.m.; Process the discharge patient to leave hospital within three hours after D/C order; Monitor the above metrics monthly for each unit, service line, & clinical specialty 4. Establish a task group to evaluate possible D/C patient processing lounge 5. Opening more hospital beds and increasing actual bed numbers: ART x four beds; Opening all ICU beds in each hospital; Opening Main 10 East; Construction ART 7th floor – 40 beds 6. Maintaining or reducing length of patient hospital stay (LOS) Issue: Steps to remain market competitive Action Plan:
q “Charting The Future of Care” — Progressnotes: A Year–in–Review for the clinical enterprise — Hard copies were sent to physicians throughout South Carolina and electronically to selected physicians and leaders in the Southeast with the intent of strengthening our brand as a leading academic medical center regionally and nationally. — The Year–in–Review includes new stories as well as updates on stories that appeared in recent issues of Progressnotes, MUSC’s News Center or The Catalyst. — The Year–in–Review is divided into four sections: clinical innovation, quality–driven care, telehealth, and research Other changes inspired by the 2013 survey responses:
q Monthly All Physician & Physician Leader meeting — used as an open Town Hall meeting q Monthly Clinical Chairs meetings. (It is expected that attendees cascade information to physician faculty) q COO regular meetings with Service Line administrators & medical directors
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Meet Joshua
Joshua Jaques Jr. Department Physical Plant, AC Shop–University How you are changing what’s possible at MUSC I truly enjoy working in the AC shop. All of the employees have made me feel at home so that we work as a complete team. It’s something I pray for daily. How long at MUSC Six months First thing you notice about people The spiritual “vibe” he or she gives off What music is in your player right now Marvin Winnas’ “Let the church say amen” Favorite NFL team Carolina Panthers Superbowl XLV III prediction Seattle Seahawks Favorite Super Bowl snack Pizza and hot wings. Something people don’t know about you I’m a reverend.
Collected 30,000 books and still counting
photo provided
Alec Robinovitz, left, joins his sister, Amanda, as they celebrate another successful delivery of books and Alec’s achievement of collecting and donating a total of 30,000 books for young readers in waiting and exam rooms at MUSC Rutledge Tower’s children’s ambulatory clinics. He’s been collecting since 2007. An avid reader, Alec was inspired with this project as a patient in the waiting room with nothing for him to read. Soon after that visit, he started contacting publishing companies and libraries across the country. In addition, he also has helped box, bag and categorize the books by age group.
6 The CaTalysT, February 7, 2014
MUSC delivers: enhanced facilities, services offer new experience By Mikie hayes Public Relations
C
ongratulations, you’re going to have a baby! To parents hoping to welcome a little one into the world, these are words they long to hear. The birth of a child is one of life’s most special moments. For nine months, an expectant mom pores over books describing what she can expect of her baby. She makes sure the nursery is properly stocked and perfectly decorated. She researches the best in diapers, breast pumps and car seats; interviews pediatric practices to ensure the right fit; and visits hospitals to choose the one that offers the best experience for her and her new bundle of joy. Where a mother-to-be chooses to give birth is perhaps the most important decision she will make for herself and her baby. But how does she choose? Is it a warm and welcoming atmosphere geared toward a nurturing experience for mom and baby or is it the state–of– the–art facility with high-tech equipment and highly specialized doctors? Jill Mauldin, M.D., thinks it’s both. “At MUSC, we are here to make one of the most special moments in life a memorable and wonderful experience with the added assurance of an expert team always ready, should that become necessary.” As medical director of the Women’s Care service line, Mauldin Mauldin is excited about the enhancements that have been made to the facilities and services as well as the additional plans for continued growth and improvements. She and her colleagues are committed to offering the most tranquil, positive and safe birthing experience for all expectant mothers at MUSC. To that end, the Labor and Delivery and Mother-Baby units have recently been enhanced to provide a welcoming and inviting atmosphere that will better support the needs of an expectant mom through her labor, delivery and recovery. A spacious private suite, with private bath and shower; comfortable reclining couch for a family member to rest or spend the night; the ability to stay connected to loved ones and the outside world through TV, phone, and Internet; a free 24–hour parking pass at the closest garage for dads; and extended visiting hours for family all make life a little easier. “Our new birthing areas were designed to feel warm
and comfortable. An expectant mother knows she’s in a place where she’s cared for and safe, where her family can bond, and where attentive, highly–experienced medical staff can see to her comfort and assist with a joyful birthing experience,” Mauldin said. In the roomy suite, the medical team is able to do as much as possible right at the bedside and after the delivery, the goal is for mom and baby to have every opportunity to bond as quickly as possible. As a baby– friendly designated hospital, newborns are placed on their mother’s chest within a few minutes of birth, given the opportunity to breastfeed within an hour of delivery and can room in with mom instead of spending time in the nursery, away from loving family — all tenets of the baby–friendly initiative developed by the World Health Organization and UNICEF. Pregnancy is a wondrous time filled with dreams and plans and no parent wants to think about the possibility of complications during pregnancy or childbirth. But what happens when an expectant mom or her baby needs a more specialized level of care? “We are always prepared for the unexpected,” Mauldin said. And she can’t stress enough the importance of having all necessary elements available under one roof to meet the needs of the mother and baby. “We hope all deliveries go smoothly, but if the unexpected were to occur, there are neonatologists, pediatric anesthesiologists, cardiologists, surgeons, neurosurgeons, and a resuscitation team available 24– hours a day, just in case.” The ability to immediately respond with specialized care is what separates MUSC from other local hospitals. Whether moms–to–be anticipate a normal or high-risk delivery, this added level of security is a relief to many expectant parents. To deliver at MUSC means they can look forward to a warm and patient-focused experience with the added peace of mind that only an academic health center can offer. “MUSC offers the most advanced prenatal, labor and delivery, and neonatal care in the country,” said Mauldin. “We’re proud that 11 members of our faculty were named to the 2013 ‘Best Doctors’ list by Best Doctors, Inc., and believe it says quite a bit about our expertise,” she continued. “The hospital staff helps us provide high-touch and low-risk care in an environment that can rapidly become high-tech as needed — and isn’t that the situation any new parent would like to be in?” From top-ranked doctors, to state–of–the–art facilities and warm and respectful care, there are many good reasons to have a baby at MUSC. And, for employees with the new MUSC Health Plan, there are also added financial benefits for delivering at MUSC. At a time when charges for delivering a baby have
Newly–renovated suites on the mother–baby unit.
Under the new MUSC Health Plan, the out-of-pocket costs associated with a typical pregnancy would be approximately $1,140. This cost includes: q Up to 13 office visits q Inpatient hospital charges q Professional charges including obstetrician and anesthesia q 2–3 ultrasounds q 2–3 lab panels q 1 fetal non–stress test Costs will be different for different contingencies. Higher–risk pregnancies, longer stays, multiple births, C-sections and various health concerns can add to the cost.
nearly tripled since 1996, MUSC is offering reduced out-of-pocket costs for members of the MUSC Health Plan who deliver at MUSC, making it both more affordable and convenient. Costs will be different for different contingencies. Higher–risk pregnancies, longer stays, multiple births, C-sections and various health concerns can add to the cost. As the MUSC Health Plan has taken effect, appointments made by employees have greatly increased
See Delivery on page 7
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Delivery
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already, according to Mauldin, and employees have been pleased at how quickly they were able to see their doctors. To accommodate the upsurge in patients, the department has recruited several outstanding new faculty members. Angela Choi, M.D., a recent graduate of MUSC’s residency program, joined the department as a faculty member in July and now sees patients at the East Cooper office. She is joined by Angela Savatiel, M.D., and nurse practitioner Jessica Day. Ashlyn Savage, M.D., sees patients at both the campus office as well as the East Cooper Women’s Center. Gretchen Reinhart, M.D., Robbie Conatser, M.D., and nurse practitioner Faye LeBeouf provide care at the MUSC North office. They look forward to the addition and expertise of Richard Day, M.D. this March. The department has also expanded services, increased the number of appointment times and arranged earlier operating room start times to offer better continuity of care. All three offices are accepting new patients. On the MUSC campus, patients can be seen at Women’s Health at the Cannon Street office. Mauldin also points out the convenience the satellite offices offer in terms of providing ease of use, rapid access and plentiful parking. In addition to the downtown location, women can also be seen in the north area at MUSC Women's Care North and in Mount Pleasant at the MUSC East Cooper Women's Center. A patient is welcome to visit these offices during her entire pregnancy and deliver downtown at the main hospital, Mauldin said. Special, personal touches are important during the childbirth experience. Expectant moms are encouraged to bring peaceful music or relaxing CDs to their suite if they so desire. Quiet time for rest and bonding is encouraged and families are able to set their own visiting hours — including no visitors or additions to the health care team. “When my wife, Robin, delivered Georgia Claire this past November, it was truly a remarkable experience. We knew we were in expert hands, but never anticipated just how ideal a situation it would be. MUSC staff went above and beyond taking exceptional care of one of their own. We felt like we were with family. Initially, I was concerned that, as an employee, we might not get any rest, but when we needed privacy, we simply asked for such and colleagues were incredibly sensitive to our needs,” said Mark Lyles, M.D., MUSC chief strategic officer. Special requests are understood and always welcomed. “MUSC is here to provide personal, family-centered maternity care for moms–to–be and their families. We want to help our moms meet their childbirth goals. Our dedicated staff cares for mother and baby with genuine warmth, respect, and dignity. Throughout the entire birthing experience, safety, comfort, and privacy are our chief concerns,” said Vicki Marsi, Women’s Care service line administrator. The peace of mind that privacy affords is important to all patients, especially as it pertains to private
Photo provided
Valentine 2013 baby, Arabel, was born to mom, Jamie Warren, and dad, Chadwick Warren, at MUSC. Jamie was one of the first moms in the hospital to practice skin-to-skin care with her newborn to promote warmth and bonding. employee health information being protected. “Employee records, like all patient records, are highly confidential and not accessible to anyone who doesn’t have a direct and immediate association with a specific patient’s care. MUSC has been extremely effective at making sure access to data is restricted to only those for whom access is necessary and viewing patient information beyond what employees need to perform their jobs is prohibited. Safeguards are in place to ensure employee records are closely monitored and
secure,” Lyles said. Family–centered care is focused on what matters most: the well–being of the mother and baby and helping the family bond. To prepare for the blessed day, MUSC also offers classes that include childbirth education, breastfeeding foundations, and newborn care. A well–respected and trusted leader in delivering babies, more than 2,300 babies were born at MUSC in 2013. To make an appointment, call 792-5300.
Charleston STEM FEST 2014
Come recognize a two-week celebration of science, technology, engineering and math in the Lowcountry. Children, families and participants can explore hands-on exhibits; meet scientists and engineers and attend free public lectures. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Liberty Square Downtown Charleston Kick-off exhibits and activities include Clemson Extension, Center for Birds of Prey, Sewee Association, The Citadel, MUSC, TTC, SC Sea Grant Consortium, MeadWestvaco, College of Charleston, the Boeing Company, SC Aquarium, Fort Sumter National Monument, Mad Science of Charleston and others. For information, call 953-7121 or email glarue@citadel.edu
8 The CaTalysT, February 7, 2014
Heart attack at age 31 turns woman into advocate Three years ago, Keisha Hawes had no idea she would be on the national frontline of the fight against heart disease. The 34–year–old mother of three suffered a heart attack at the age of 31 and now serves as one of seven spokeswomen for the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women campaign. In 2004, the AHA recognized the enormous challenge ahead of it. Heart and vascular diseases were claiming the lives of nearly half a million women in the U.S. each year, yet women did not seem to understand the very real risks they faced. Until that time, heart disease was generally thought to be a disease that impacted out–of–shape older men. With breast cancer awareness flooding the social consciousness, women didn’t see themselves at risk for heart disease. They were wrong. Heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women every year and most women don’t survive their first
American Heart Association photo
Keisha Hawes (center) joined women across the nation to promote Go Red for women.
heart attack. In an effort to raise national awareness about the alarming problem and educate women on their risks for developing heart disease, the AHA created Go Red for
Women, a campaign designed to empower women to take charge of their heart health. Hawes was like most women — unaware of the statistics or their personal risk. “I just didn’t fit the bill or the mold, in my mind, of someone who would suffer from heart disease. I thought that heart disease had a certain look,” Hawes said. “I learned about the Go Red for Women campaign through a Facebook post and I heard a casting call on the radio,” she continued. “I figured since I had heard it twice that day, it must be a sign.” Hawes decided she wanted to share her story, but she wasn’t prepared for the powerful emotions she would have to deal with before taking that step. “Initially I was angry, afraid and overwhelmed. I felt guilty; just a lot of emotions I had to sort out.”
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TreaTMenT Continued from Page One something was really wrong. “It was like I couldn’t pass any test: not a spelling test, a pregnancy test, nothing. I thought maybe it was menopause or my age. That was in January, 2010 and in March I had quadruple bypass surgery.” Faulkner is back to her projects, only now she also goes to the gym three times a week, watches what she eats and has since quit smoking, which was no small feat since she smoked two packs of cigarettes a day for 36 years. “My parents smoked and they both quit when they went into the hospital for different things. And we’re Southern Baptist. When somebody died, we had to have fried chicken and macaroni and cheese. But now I exercise three times a week no matter what. The only time I don’t go is when the gym isn’t open.” During her recovery time at home, Faulkner realized that she had nothing to do, but knew she couldn’t smoke or eat unhealthy snacks. “I think about everything I put in my mouth now. Doctors Kratz and Elliott worked hard on my heart and I want to make sure I protect what they did,” she said of her surgeons John Kratz, M.D., a professor in the Department of Surgery and Bruce Elliott, M.D., chief of the Division of Vascular Surgery. She also praises the efforts of Marian Taylor, M.D., a cardiologist and assistant professor in MUSC’s Division of Cardiology. Faulkner said
one thing women can do to survive an event similar to hers is to choose a good doctor. “She’s so sweet and she really is the nicest person. I was lucky to get her. I don’t know how I got her, but I’m very glad I did.” As a result of the initial surprise of her diagnosis, Faulkner said that it’s important that women listen to their bodies and be aware of what’s going on. “Women just keep going, even when we’re hurting, but pay attention to those little twinges when you think something’s not right, because usually, something’s not right.” Faulkner regrets she didn’t take more time for herself or pay attention to her body because she was always busy with projects at home or at work. “I paid no attention because I never felt bad. Even though I smoked a lot, I was not one of those people who was chronically ill. You say to yourself it’ll go away. Yeah it’ll go away, when they call Stuhr’s [funeral home].” Taylor hopes women will hear Faulkner’s message as heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women in the nation. “Many women don’t know the risk factors and they don’t know that the signs and symptoms can be atypical. Because women don’t recognize they’re having a heart attack, they don’t seek care early enough. By the time they do, they have heart damage,” Taylor said. Taylor also noted that many women
tend to put themselves on the back burner, negatively affecting their health. “The mortality rate for coronary heart disease is almost tenfold greater than that of breast cancer and is 50 percent greater than that of all forms of cancer combined,” she added. That statistic makes Faulkner shudder when she thinks of how lucky she was. “I was very fortunate to have access to all of the physicians and care that MUSC offers. As a result of my experience, I’m challenged to become a better advocate!” Many women lack adequate knowledge about heart disease and that is one of the main reasons Taylor supports Go Red for Women activities. “The events mainly raise awareness. Go Red events educate the public, specifically women, about heart disease.” Upcoming events are: q National Wear Red Day Friday, Feb. 7 (11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in ART lobby /atrium) Join MUSC as we wear red to raise awareness of the No. 1 killer of women, heart disease, and how to prevent it. MUSC will host an event in the ART atrium / lobby, which includes food vendors, free red hair streaks, free on-site wellness “mini” classes, free BP screenings and lots of other health information and activities. q Paint the Town Red
All of February — To create awareness, local restaurants and stores are asked to paint a red dress on their storefront window along with a creative display. Restaurants are also encouraged to create a heart–healthy special on their menu on National Wear Red Day, Friday, Feb. 7. q Paws Go Red Sunday, Feb. 23, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m., James Island County Park, Wappoo Shelter Pet Helpers, the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women Campaign and MUSC Heart and Vascular Center team up at the James Island County Park for heart health screenings for dogs and their owners. Followed by a short walk, dogs will be judged for a Go Red costume competition. For more information about the event contact Pet Helpers at cmorris@pethelpers.org. q Go Red for Women Luncheon Wednesday, April 23, 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Riviera Theatre Please join us for a networking luncheon with breakout sessions focused on women and healthy living. The keynote speaker will focus on women and healthy living. Proceeds benefit the American Heart Association’s women and heart disease research and education. For more information call 810–1903.
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FaMily
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way of knowing that he was suffering from a rare, heredity disorder known as Omenn’s syndrome or that their time with their precious son would be short. Omenn’s is a Severe Combined Immunodeficiency Disorder, a potentially fatal congenital disorder characterized by an infant’s inability to fight infections and a universally fatal condition if not diagnosed early and caught before infections set in, said Maria Streck, M.D., Hayes’ allergy and immunology specialist. The disorder, caused by a severe defect in the T–and B–lymphocyte systems, typically results in a newborn contracting serious to life-threatening infections such as pneumonia, meningitis or bloodstream infections within its first months of life. For a baby to be born with Ommen’s Syndrome, both parents must carry a recessive gene. While an extraordinarily rare occurrence, both of Hayes’ parents had the gene and passed it on. For the Kalergises, the next few months were frightening and frustrating as physicians treated each new symptom the newborn exhibited — as one improved a seemingly unrelated one would emerge. Streck put the pieces of the puzzle together, suspecting the collection of symptoms may in fact indicate Ommen’s Syndrome. She sent the Kalergises to the lab for a specific set of genetic tests that were extremely expensive and would not yield results for nearly six weeks. Had screening for SCID been a part of the regular newborn screening process at the time, Hayes’ doctors and family would have known much earlier what they were dealing with. At the time, MUSC was not performing stem cell transplants for SCID. In North Carolina, Hayes underwent chemotherapy — a stem cell transplant and multiple rounds of antibiotics, antivirals and antifungal medications. While his situation was looking hopeful, somewhere along his journey he was exposed to cytomegalovirus, a very common virus, but due to the fragile nature of his little body after his transplant, he succumbed to CMV and respiratory failure at only 4–½ half months old.
“Whether Hayes would have survived or not, we’ll never know, but his chances of survival would have been immensely increased had we known from the beginning he had been born with a SCID,” said Rannigan-Kalergis. Today, Hayes would have had a fighting chance. The S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control worked with the March of Dimes, the S.C. Hospital Association and representatives from children’s hospitals throughout the state, including MUSC, to obtain the approval necessary to incorporate SCID testing into the agency’s Newborn Screening program. Rannigan-Kalergis and Streck were integrally involved in the effort. Those involved in getting the testing approved credit Rannigan–Kalergis for her strength and grace in putting a personal face to a clinical, abstract process. The way she shared her son’s story in such a gentle and heartfelt way was the needed catalyst in getting this approved. On Jan. 23, DHEC announced plans to expand NBS tests for every newborn to include SCID and other difficult– to–diagnose conditions. The panel of tests will now include a test for SCID. Because newborns with SCID lack the white blood cells that fight infections caused by viruses, bacteria and fungi, early diagnosis — as a result of the screen can gives them a chance to survive this otherwise fatal disease. “The addition of SCID to the newborn screening panel is a very important step in ensuring good health for all children in South Carolina. Early detection is imperative and screening for SCID will guarantee that children who have the disease can receive appropriate medical care prior to developing any manifestations. Through newborn screening and early detection, we can achieve a very favorable outcome for a disease that previously took the lives of many children. It is heartbreaking that Hayes was not able to benefit from early detection of SCID. However, because of his mother’s valiant efforts, we will now be able to give other children in South Carolina with SCID a chance to survive, said Streck. The Kalergis family is relieved others won’t have to suffer the heartache they endured because this test will be
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Hayes Kalergis was diagnosed with SCID and would have benefitted from an added newborn screen test. available for their babies. Eight months ago, they were blessed with a daughter, Porter, who carries one recessive gene, but was not born with Ommen’s Syndrome. As Charleston’s 2014 March of Dimes Ambassador, Rannigan–Kalergis will share her story in an effort to help the March of Dimes raise awareness of the
importance of screening. “The fact that Hayes’ story was special enough to share with the community in an effort to bring awareness to the importance of the newborn screening process, means the world to me. While this is two years late for Hayes, we just won’t know how many lives this test screen will save and improve,” she said. “I knew of the March of Dimes’ work with premature babies,” she continued, “but I had no idea the many other areas they assist in such as pediatric health and pediatric care and just how much they have accomplished. They were firmly behind the screening movement and I look forward to educating the community about its importance.” During the March for Babies kick off at MUSC, participants will have the opportunity to meet the Kalergis family, sign up to be team captains, pick up fundraising materials and learn more about the 2014 campaign. A great deal of excitement surrounds the annual event. “We are grateful to have the Kalergis family serving as this year’s ambassadors and as always, we look forward to working with MUSC. We are very excited that Dr. Pat Cawley will serve as the 2015 Chair,” Repik said.
10 The CaTalysT, February 7, 2014
Employee Wellness each day. The mindful approach Mindfulness has is about making healthy choices been described as a become second nature. Sodexo psychological concept believes that when customers are involving the focusing of presented with delicious, healthy attention and awareness options and choose those foods on the present moment. on their own terms, they are Applying mindfulness more likely to enjoy them and strategies to behavior realize the benefits that come change has shown along with a healthier lifestyle promise, particularly in and consequently, more likely to regards to healthy habits. repeat those good choices. Several factors influence Susan Johnson In alignment with Sodexo’s successful behavioral Mindful program, MUSC’s Office change, one of them of Health Promotion and Employee being intention. A person must Wellness Program are offering a year possess the desire to make a change of mindful wellness challenges to before behavioral change can occur. support healthy behaviors at work. However, many people with strong Each month a health behavior intentions still fail to act on them. will be featured and employees will Research suggests that enhanced be asked to engage in that activity attention to present experiences and throughout the month. Challenge events (mindfulness) may influence participants will be eligible for prizes the ability to control thoughts and by completing a short survey at the emotions that conflict with a current beginning and end of the month. intention. This means that mindful One employee will be featured each people have a better sense of self– month in our “spotlight on wellness” control related to health behaviors. feature in The Catalyst. The February One area in particular that has shown improved success in behavioral challenge, in conjunction with Heart Health month, is Exercising Your outcomes related to the practice Heart: Take the stairs or the long way of mindfulness is healthy eating. round to your workplace, and during As part of a strong commitment the day be sure to get up from the to health and wellness, Sodexo desk hourly to decrease the risk of is introducing an exciting new heart disease. approach to wellness called “Mindful To begin, take the first February by Sodexo”. Mindful is a wellness Monthly Mindful Challenge survey program designed to promote a at https://redcap.musc.edu/ healthy lifestyle by offering a variety surveys/?s=PEZJZ5ebo9 of healthy menu choices. Most The final survey will be sent via people want good health but often email at the end of the month. struggle to make it a natural part of
Health at work
Wellness Events
q Go Red Day at MUSC Help MUSC Go Red from 12 to 2 p.m., Feb. 7, Ashley River Tower for this free event featuring free blood pressure screenings, freebies, heart health info, hands–free CPR demonstrations, chair massages and more. Help form a “human heart” at 12:30 p.m. on the stairs. q Worksite screening: The next worksite screening will be held Feb. 14, Gazes Building Auditorium, room 125, valued at about $350, is available to employees of the State Health Plan (including the MUSC Health Plan) for only $15 (covered spouses also can participate for $15). Employees and spouses without this insurance can participate for $42. To register, go to www.musc.edu/ employeewellness. q MUSC Employee Wellness Fitness Series — Join Katie Blaylock for a free Cardio Power class from 4:15 to 4:45 p.m., Feb. 19 at the Wellness Center. Register via email to musc-empwell@ musc.edu q Mindful by Sodexo — Offered at Main and ART cafeterias. Throughout February, diners may enter a chance to win two first place prizes ($50 meal card)
or two seconhe entrees (a winner from each cafeteria). Purchase any of the daily Mindful entrees in the cafeteria, write your name on the back of the receipt and drop it into the contest box. Multiple entries are allowed. q Chair massages: Free massages are offered to employees on Tuesday nights and midday Wednesdays. Look for broadcast messages for locations and times. q Farmers Markets: Enjoy fresh fruits and vegetables from local farmers on Tuesdays, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Harborview); Wednesday sand Thursdays, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. (ART); and Fridays, 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (Horseshoe).
MUSC Urban Farm
q Lunch and Learn — 12 to 1 p.m., Topic: Cultivating Heart Health; email urbanfarm@musc.edu to get the Farm Newsletter q Sunset Work & Learn, 4 to 5 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 13 q Early bird maintenance — Wednesday, 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. , Feb. 12. For information, contact johnsusa@ musc.edu or shela@musc.edu
The CaTalysT, February 7, 2014 11
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12 The CaTalysT, February 7, 2014
aTTaCk Continued from Page Eight Hawes came to the realization that there were likely many women who, similar to her, didn’t believe that it could happen to them. “Once I started doing the research and learning more about the American Heart Association and Go Red for Women, I learned that heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women. I thought it was breast cancer. I thought I had a greater risk of having cancer than heart disease.” As a result of learning more about a woman’s risk for developing heart disease as well as the Go Red for Women campaign, Hawes said she felt compelled to share her story. “There are so many women who just don’t know the risks or that they can affect change when it comes to their health.” She also stressed the importance of taking personal responsibility which she believes is yet another form of treatment. “We look to medicine a lot and medicine is great. But there’s also exercise; it’s a form of medicine. Meditation is a form of medicine. Diet and proper nutrition is a form of medicine, so we need to take
stock and add value to those things too.” She also said that it’s extremely important for women to know what’s going on with their bodies and to make themselves a priority. Hawes shares her story every opportunity she gets. “I tell my story to whomever, wherever, however.” Her goal is to cause people to think. “Let me be the example. We don’t need any more examples. I’ve already done it and it’s not something that needs to be done again to prove a point,” she said jokingly. Hawes regularly speaks with the media and at women’s church groups. She is particularly enjoying the opportunities she has been given to share her story at various events during the Go Red Month initiatives, Go Red Sundays. The New Keisha Living with diabetes and suffering a heart attack at age 31 was a wakeup call for Hawes who wants to be as healthy as possible for her husband and children. To that end, she has made several life changes. “I now make myself a priority and I don’t feel guilty about it. I know now that in order for me to be there and be everything I am to
everyone else, I have to be my best self. I have to take care of myself. I have to be honest with my doctor. I have to go to my doctor’s appointments. I have to take my medication and I have to really communicate with him to make sure we have a plan.” Other changes have included family discussions about living a heart–healthy lifestyle, especially making conscious decisions to eat better. “I have a daughter and two sons. I know that there’s a genetic connection to me and I’ve given them those genes so now we talk about what we can do to lower their chances of heart disease.” Hawes further explained that she is surrounded by people who make her accountable. “Since I’ve been in the newspaper, it does make things a little awkward. I’m always concerned about who’s going to see me. I don’t want to send out mixed signals and I don’t want to be a bad example so I’m definitely conscious about that.” Along with making healthier food choices, Hawes also has become more active and joined a running club. “While I’m still an uppercase walker and lowercase runner, it just has me out and
about more, doing things I never would have thought about before,” she said. Hawes and her family now participate in exercise and running clubs. Marian Taylor, M.D., a cardiologist and assistant professor in MUSC’s Division of Cardiology and Go Red supporter, said Go Red events educate women about heart disease, which is important because two thirds of all women in the U.S. have at least one major risk factor for coronary heart disease and, more often than not, they have more than one risk factor. Taylor, who attended the Go Red Run Heart 5K Run and Walk with Hawes on Feb. 1, added that it’s important for women to be informed about heart disease as more than one half of women who die of coronary heart disease had no previous symptoms. “Twenty–three percent of women will die within one year of having a heart attack and two–thirds of women who have a heart attack fail to make a full recovery,” Taylor said. See the MUSC News Center for the full multmedia package: www.musc.edu/ pr/newscenter/2014/GoRed.html.