NEW TREATMENT OPTION - Good Samaritan Medical Center

Good News
A member of catholic health services of long island | a magnet® designated hospital
from Good Sam
New Treatment Option
for Most Challenging Cancer Cases
I
n 2012, 82-year-old George
their 59th wedding anniversary in May
Walters underwent surgery and
with a trip to Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
treatment for stage III lung can-
Now retired for more than 20 years,
cer. When his cancer returned
they enjoy their family which includes
less than a year later, his surgeon, Chief of
four children, 15 grandchildren and five
Thoracic Surgery Terry Palatt, MD, and
great-grandchildren.
Chair of Radiation Oncology Johnny Kao,
“During the last decade, lung cancer has
MD, agreed that additional surgery would
become the leading cause of cancer death
be too risky and instead recommended
for both men and women in the United
image-guided radiotherapy, a less invasive
States,” said Dr. Kao. “With TrueBeam,™
treatment that has been shown to offer
we can treat a lung tumor that moves with
superior outcomes and quality of life.
each breath as if it were standing still. We
The Cancer Center at Good Samaritan
offers a new state-of-the-art Varian
expect this to make a meaningful difference
for lung cancer patients.”
TrueBeam™ linear accelerator, an innova-
As the first hospital in Suffolk County
tive system that enables a radically differ-
with TrueBeam,™ Good Sam offers cancer
ent approach to treating cancer. Mr.
patients faster, shorter and more precise
Walters received seven weeks of radiation
treatments. The ability to monitor and
to his lymph nodes without any toxicity.
compensate for tumor motion results in
“I have been very fortunate to have
A radiology technician
treats patient
George Walters using
TrueBeam™ therapy.
superior results. The TrueBeam™ system
available delivering the best options for the
excellent doctors who have kept me going,”
allows radiation oncologists to offer all
treatment of cancers with radiotherapy,”
said Mr. Walters. “My treatments have
key radiation treatments.
said Good Samaritan Hospital’s Chief of
been painless with no adverse side effects.”
“We have responded to patients’ needs
He and his bride, Rosaleen, celebrated
by providing the most advanced technology
juLY
2014
Vol. 10, No. 2
Girl Stands Tall
Thanks to Expert
Medical Team
3
Jersey Man at
Brink of Death
finds Good Sam
5
Hematology/Oncology Kenneth Gold, MD.
“It represents a
Surgeon Performs
Lifesaving Operation on Newborn
7
( CONTINUED ON PAGE 5)
Child Life
Program Makes
a Difference
9
A Message From the
Executive Vice President and
Chief Administrative Officer
S
Nancy B. Simmons
Good News is
published quarterly
by Good Samaritan’s
Office of Public and
External Affairs.
Nancy Simmons
Executive Vice President and
Chief Administrative Officer
Theresa Jacobellis
Assistant Vice President of
Public Affairs and Marketing
Colleen Valdini
Public and External Affairs
Manager/Editor
Richard Helm
Photographer
Contributors:
Georgeine Bellando
Sue Grimm
Justin Jaycon
Chrissy Tutino
2
ummer is finally here! Time for long weekends at Kismet
and sunny days at Robert Moses, backyard barbecues and outdoor
concerts. Summertime truly brings out the best in Long Island.
We continue to celebrate the success of the St. Francis Open Heart Surgery Program at Good Samaritan, which not only exceeded our projections in terms of the number of patients who have received sophisticated
surgery, but has allowed Good Sam to provide life-saving emergency
care to several patients who might not have otherwise survived. You can
read about two of them on pages 4 and 5.
This summer we will “break ground” on an exciting new renovation
project involving our Mother-Baby unit. By the end of 2014, we will
unveil a new postpartum unit featuring enhanced amenities including
private rooms where families can bond with their newborns.
Unfortunately, summer is also known as the 100 deadliest days on the
roads for teen drivers, who experience more serious auto accidents than any
other age group. Good Samaritan, in partnership with the Aram Chowdhury
Foundation, recently presented “Keeping Teens Safe on the Roads,” a halfday seminar for teens and their parents, which you can read about on page 6.
Our commitment to the health and well-being of young people is evident
in programs such as this, as well as the comprehensive array of health
services provided both in the hospital and through our free-standing Center
for Pediatric Specialty Care in Babylon. In this publication, you will read
about our outstanding pediatric surgery program, our team approach to
managing concussions in student athletes, our advanced testing for youngsters with seizure disorders, our Child Life program which helps youngsters
cope with hospitalization and medical procedures, and our unique, compassionate approach to helping families through the pain of pregnancy loss.
These are but a few of the renowned services that Good Samaritan provides
through its Pediatric Center, which also includes the south shore’s only
pediatrician-staffed Pediatric Emergency Department and pediatric intensive
care unit for critically ill children.
As part of Catholic Health Services, we are driven by our faith-based
mission to provide excellent care, commit ourselves to those in need,
affirm the sanctity of life, advocate for the poor and underserved, and
serve the common good. On page 3 you will read about Tizita Tesfay,
an Ethiopian girl who came to Good Samaritan as part of a charitable
medical mission to undergo life-transforming spine surgery. Her case is
emblematic of the many ways in which we bring our mission to life.
Closer to home, Good Sam continues to invest in our hospital in order
to ensure that local residents have access to the most advanced medicine
available to help them combat serious illness and injury. Our cover story
highlights the new equipment recently installed in our ( CONTINUED ON PAGE 5)
GOOD news from good sam | july 2014
Catholic Health Services
Board of Directors
Alan D. Guerci, MD, President & CEO
Richard J.J. Sullivan, Jr., Chair
Brian McGuire, Vice Chair
Joseph Tantillo, Secretary
Christopher Pascucci, Treasurer
Barbara Ellen Black, D.PS.
Kevin J. Conway
Peter D’Angelo
Thomas Dowling, Jr., MD
Rev. Peter Dugandzic
Virginia Ewen
Sister Audrey Harsen, OP
Brian P. Hehir
Deacon Frank L. Kurre
Hon. Anthony Marano
Stephen McLoughlin
Msgr. Robert Morrissey
Patricia Nazemetz
Jerome Poller
Daniel T. Rowe
Salvatore Sodano
Rev. Msgr. James Vlaun
John Wagner
Good Samaritan
Hospital Foundation
Board of Directors
John J. Halleron, III, Chairman
Aileen Eppig, Vice Chairperson
Terese M. Weber, Secretary
Daniel C. O’Donnell, Treasurer
Kelly Daniele-Crosman
William A. Mullaney
Barry V. Pittman
Henry C. Schreiber, Jr.
Nancy B. Simmons
Bob Venero
For more information on services and
a Good Sam physician directory,
please call (631) 376-4444.
You can also find us online:
good-samaritan-hospital.org
facebook.com/GoodSamaritan
HospitalMedicalCenter
@GoodSamaritanLI
youtube.com/user/gshmc
Ethiopian Girl Stands Tall
Thanks to Free Spine Surgery
S
urgery to correct
18-year-old Tizita Tesfay’s
severe scoliosis took about
eight hours, but her journey
was more than a year in the making. The
curve in her spine was so severe — an “s”
shaped curve of more than 105 degrees
— that Tizita only stood 4’8” tall. Living in
pain and with the threat of serious damage
to her heart and lungs caused by the deformity, the diminutive girl bravely traveled
halfway around the world all by herself
for the chance to have corrective surgery.
Traveling to the United States from Ethiopia, Tizita met spine surgeon Laurence
Mermelstein, MD, who operated on her
at Good Samaritan less than a week later.
After a grueling procedure during which
The team that helped Tizita included (L-R) Diane Curley, MSN, RN, Director of Clinical Resources
at Catholic Health Services, Kristopher Stillwell, PA, Michael Dobryansky, MD, Mae Caime, office
manager, Long Island Spine Specialists, patient Tizita Tesfay, Laurence Mermelstein, MD, Hargovind
DeWal, MD and neuro-monitoring technician Justin Silverstein.
her tightened and twisted ligaments and
surgeons affiliated with CHS might be
spinal joints were surgically released and
able to help Tizita.
A disproportionately high number of
spinal deformities are seen in Ethiopian
stiff rods implanted to hold her spine and
When they learned about Tizita, Dr.
children. Some are congenital, others are
vertebral joints in position, Tizita has not
Mermelstein and his partner, Hargovind
developmental, but many are due to the
only gained a new outlook on life, but
DeWal, MD, of Long Island Spine Specialists,
prevalence of infectious diseases such as
four inches in stature.
enthusiastically agreed to donate their
tuberculosis.
Tizita’s odyssey began in Sebeta, a rural
services to correct her deformity. They
“The problem is that there is a lack of
village in Ethiopia where she lives with
were assisted in the operating room by
adequate medical care in Ethiopia to treat
her parents and two younger brothers. She
plastic and reconstructive surgeon Michael
these children,” said Dr. Mermelstein, who
was identified as a candidate for surgery
Dobryansky, MD, of the Long Island
specializes in treating scoliosis and other
after a visit to a clinic in the capital city of
Plastic Surgical Group, who provided his
spine problems. In the United States, children
Addis Ababa, an hour from her home.
services pro bono. Good Samaritan Hospi-
with scoliosis are often treated with bracing.
Through the clinic, Tizita met Diane
tal also donated its services, as did medical
Here, a 50 degree curve is considered
Curley, MSN, RN, Director of Clinical
device manufacturer Medtronic and intra-
severe enough to warrant surgery.
Resources at Catholic Health Services
operative monitoring company SMS.
“This was the first of what will hopefully
(CHS), who volunteers her time with an
Tizita remained in the United States
organization that provides humanitarian
with a host family until mid-May, when
DeWal. “We hope that Tizita’s good
aid and health care services to orphans in
she returned to Ethiopia to continue her
outcome will open the door to us helping
Ethiopia. Diane thought that the talented
recovery.
even more children in the future.”
be many more cases to come,” said Dr.
www.good-samaritan-hospital.org
3
cardiac services
Procedure Offers Lifesaving
Open-Heart Alternative
Kings Park resident Frank Russo has been
dealing with multiple sclerosis for more than 30 years.
Now 48-years-old and needing the assistance of a scooter, he goes
to the gym every day to improve his condition. One day, shortness
of breath while working out prompted him to skip the gym and stay
in bed. When he started to sweat and felt chest pain, he knew
something was wrong and called 911. He was brought by ambulance
to St. Catherine of Siena Medical Center, one of six hospitals within
Catholic Health Services. There he underwent emergent cardiac
catheterization with placement of three stents to reopen blockages
in his coronary arteries.
In addition, Mr. Russo was diagnosed with a severely calcified
left anterior descending coronary artery. Six days later he came to
Good Samaritan where a device known as the Diamondback 360
Coronary Orbital Atherectomy System was available. This cardiac
tool removes debris in obstructed arteries, restoring normal blood
flow to the heart. Good Samaritan is the first in Suffolk County to
offer this lifesaving procedure as an alternative to open-heart
surgery. Under the care of Director of Good Samaritan’s Cardiac
Catherization Program Ezra Deutsch, MD, Mr. Russo underwent
successful orbital atherectomy and stent therapy.
“Considering possible complications with Mr. Russo’s multiple
sclerosis, it was best to deal with his blocked arteries with a less
invasive procedure using the Coronary Diamondback procedure
rather than open-heart surgery,” said Dr. Deutsch. “He was the ideal
candidate since his condition was detected early.”
Mr. Russo is in cardiac rehabilitation at Good Samaritan and has
returned to his normal activity at home and at the gym.
Good Samaritan has performed more cardiac procedures than
any other facility in the surrounding area. Patients across Long
Island turn to Good Samaritan for a variety of cardiology services
such as angioplasty, electrophysiology, echocardiology, EKG testing
and more. Patients requiring open heart surgery receive state-of-the-art
care through The St. Francis Open Heart Surgery Program at Good
Samaritan Hospital. This collaborative program offers heart patients
seamless care that meets the highest clinical standards, before,
during and after surgery. In addition, Good Samaritan has been recognized with the Get With The Guidelines® – Heart Failure Gold Quality
Achievement Award from the American Heart
Association for the third consecutive year.
For more information on Good Samaritan’s
cardiac services, call (631) 376-4444, visit
www.good-samaritan-hospital.org or scan
this QR code with your smartphone.
Surgeon Repairs Large Hernia With
Minimal Incision Using da Vinci ® Robot
F
ollowing several
attempts to repair a
large hernia along her
abdomen, 48-year-old Alicia
Brenner had a hernia repair performed using robotic-assisted
surgery at Good Samaritan by
affiliated surgeon Manal Hegazy,
MD. Unlike traditional open sur-
4
gery requiring a large incision, her
procedure required a small incision which resulted in a shorter
recovery time. Ms. Brenner was
released from the hospital the
same day and was touring New
York City the next week.
In addition, robotic-assisted
surgery offers the patient virtu-
GOOD news from good sam | july 2014
ally scarless results, less pain,
less blood loss, and reduced
risk of infection. Small-incision
hernia repair has also been
credited with reduced recurrence rates which have been
estimated to be as high as 30%
with open techniques.
“I was very surprised how
painless this surgery was as
compared to the abdominal
surgery I had long ago,” said Ms.
Brenner. “I experienced no pain
during the recuperation period.”
For more on robotic-assisted
surgery at Good Samaritan, call
(631) 376-4444 or visit www.
good-samaritan-hospital.org.
jersey man at brink of death
cardiac services
A
finds good samaritan
ll birthdays are special,
“Presented with one of the most difficult
but Stephen DelMonico’s
dissection cases I’ve ever seen, I am very
58th birthday on March 13
proud that everyone on the team at Good
was especially meaningful.
Samaritan used their incredible skills and
That’s because he almost didn’t live to see it.
experience to save Steve’s life.”
Mr. DelMonico suffered an aortic dissection,
So serious is aortic dissection, the condi-
in which a tear develops in the inner layer of
tion that killed actor John Ritter, that many
the aorta, a large artery that delivers blood
of its victims die before reaching the hospital
from the heart to the body. A sudden and
and about 25 percent of those who do reach
Dawn DelMonico with her husband, Stephen,
three weeks after surgery.
the hospital do not survive surgery. Just four
St. Francis Open Heart Surgery Program at
him to Good Samaritan where his condition
his aorta, Mr. DelMonico was transferred from
Good Samaritan Hospital had in place an
was assessed as extremely critical.
catastrophic medical emergency, aortic
dissection is often fatal. Fortunately, The
weeks after the operation to repair the tear in
Good Samaritan to an intensive inpatient re-
expert cardiothoracic surgical team from
That night, Chairman of Cardiothoracic
St. Francis on-site at Good Sam. Within
Surgery and Director of the St. Francis Open
his recovery closer to his home and family.
moments the team was mobilized to per-
Heart Surgery Program at Good Samaritan
“My doctors rebuilt me. I was going to
form life-saving surgery on Mr. DelMonico.
Christopher La Mendola, MD, successfully
die,” said Mr. DelMonico. “I believe if I had
performed the challenging cardiothoracic
not been on Long Island I would not have
surgery to save Mr. DelMonico’s life.
survived.”
For more information on the open heart
A New Jersey resident, Mr. DelMonico
stayed two nights per week at a Babylon
motel to cut down on commuting to his
“I have seen about 50 aortic dissection
habilitation facility in New Jersey to continue
Deer Park job. On February 18, while in his
cases out of more than 5,000 open heart
surgery program at Good Samaritan, please
motel room, Mr. DelMonico experienced
surgeries I performed during a 20 year
visit www.good-samaritan-hospital.org or
severe chest pain. An ambulance brought
career at St. Francis,” said Dr. La Mendola.
call (631) 376-4444.
New Treatment Option for Cancer Cases ( CONTINUED FROM COVER)
message from the vice president & CAO
quantum leap in our ability to help people fight cancer.”
Radiation oncology is part of the Cancer Center at Good Samaritan which
received the highest level of accreditation from the American College of Surgeons
Commission on Cancer, the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers and
the American College of Radiology. The hospital’s cancer program has been nationally recognized, having earned the Outstanding Achievement Award and three-year
accreditation with commendation in eight areas from the American College of
Surgeons’ Commission on Cancer on three consecutive surveys, nine years in a row
and was named a Top Performer in Cancer Care by US News & World Report.
For more information on radiation oncology services at Good Samaritan,
call (631) 376-4047 or visit our website at http://goodsamaritan.chsli.org/radiationoncology-center.
Radiation Oncology Department. This state-of-the-art
linear accelerator allows radiation therapists to deliver
extremely high doses of cancer-killing therapy in shorter
time frames while sparing healthy surrounding tissue.
New programs, new equipment, and a renewed
commitment to our longstanding services…these are
the hallmarks of Good Samaritan Hospital. I invite
you to learn more about us by attending one of our
free lectures, screenings or special events, or joining
our active Guilds. We are your hospital. Whatever you
need at any stage of life, we are here for you.
( CONTINUED FROM page 2)
www.good-samaritan-hospital.org
5
Young Woman’s Weight-Loss Journey
West Islip resident Elyse
Capozza has not only lost 170
pounds after bariatric surgery, but has
gained a new perspective on life. Over the
past 15 months, she has gained confidence,
achieved her dream job as a math teacher
and made new friends while losing weight
and getting healthy—and every step has
been documented in a series of video
entries posted on YouTube.
“I have met amazing people through the
bariatric weight loss program and support
group at Good Samaritan,” said Ms. Capozza.
“Before, during and after my surgery they
on her weight-loss goals. Her bariatric surgery journey took several years and began
with her decision to obtain surgery
in November 2012.
“Weight loss surgery is not a quick fix, but
a tool to get the outcome you desire,” said
Ms. Capozza. “The diet regimen is hard
work but well worth the outcome. I feel like
Elyse, before surgery and one year later.
were there for me, answering my questions
and cheering me on to success.”
Ms. Capozza is grateful that she found
the right program to help her stay focused
I could accomplish
anything now.”
View each installment of Elyse’s journey
at www.youtube.com/
user/GSHMC.
Workshop Aims to Keep Teens Safe on the Roads
G
ood Samaritan, in partnership with the Aram
Chowdhury Foundation, hosted a Parent/Teen Safe Driving Program at West Islip Fire Department. The program
was developed in response to the staggering statistics for teen car
accidents in Suffolk County. Studies have shown the risk of being
involved in a car accident is highest for drivers aged 16 to 19 than any
other age group. The Aram Chowdhury Foundation was established
18 years ago after internist Faizur Chowdhury, MD, and his wife,
Ellen, lost their 18-year-old son Aram, in a car accident involving an
inexperienced teenage driver.
“Many teens are testing their limits instead of properly driving a
car,” said Ellen Chowdhury, founder of the Aram Chowdhury Foundation. “Teen drivers’ inexperience leads to poor decision making and a
greater chance of car accidents.”
More than 130 teens and parents benefitted from this free
program aimed at educating them about safe driving skills. The pro-
and assessment of the teenage driver. Participants also had the op-
gram included retired Suffolk County Police Officer Paul Failla and
portunity to win raffle prizes and a $1,000 college scholarship.
Director of Good Samaritan’s Trauma Center Maureen Sheridan, RN.
Participants heard firsthand how families and victims are affected by
serious accidents. The event also included a driving simulator, which
emulated real road driving conditions and facilitated in the training
6
(L-R): Faizur R. Chowdhury, MD, Internal Medicine/Endocrinology, affiliated
with Good Samaritan Hospital with Meghan Callahan, a sophomore at
Patchogue-Medford High School, who received a $1,000.00 scholarship for
college awarded by the Aram Chowdhury Foundation; Ellen Chowdhury, RN,
diabetic educator for Good Samaritan Hospital; and 16-year-old participant
Jacob Aram Pullman, Dr. & Mrs. Chowdhury’s grandson and Aram’s namesake.
GOOD news from good sam | july 2014
“If I can save one life, our efforts in memory of my son, Aram, will
have been worth it,” said Dr. Chowdhury.
For more information on future programs, call the Office of Public &
External Affairs at (631) 376-4104.
Surgeon Performs Lifesaving
Operation on 2-Day-Old Infant
Baby Diagnosed with Rare Gastrointestinal Blockage Before Birth
A
fter undergoing a routine
sonogram in her 20th week of
pregnancy, Kathleen Mari
and her husband, Michael,
learned that there was a good chance that
their first baby would be among one in
10,000 newborns affected by duodenal
atresia, a blockage in the upper part of the
small intestine that prevents babies from
eating on their own. Left untreated, the
condition may be fatal. They were also told
that up to 40% of babies with duodenal
atresia also have Down syndrome.
After much crying, prayer and consulta-
Lauren before surgery ...
next 14 weeks, Mrs. Mari was closely
... and at six months old.
nine month old, eating and growing well.
tion with medical professionals, the couple
monitored with specialized 3-D scans and
Lindenhurst residents Mr. and Mrs. Mari
turned to Good Samaritan Hospital’s
stress tests and in her 37th week there was
chose Dr. El Kady and Dr. Jones because of
Maternal Fetal Medicine Program. This
a change in the baby’s condition which
their experience handling complex cases.
program offers comprehensive manage-
necessitated early delivery.
Their daughter received the excellent care
ment of patients experiencing high-risk
Good Samaritan affiliated physician
they expected, and the entire family ben-
pregnancies, and is an integral part of the
Athanasios Antoniadis, MD, delivered
efited from an extra dose of compassion.
services offered to the more than 2,800
Maris’ daughter, Lauren, by Cesarean section
“We are truly thankful for every doctor,
women who deliver their babies at Good
the following week. Vinci Jones, MD, Chief
nurse and aide who helped our daughter
Samaritan each year.
of Pediatric Surgery at Good Samaritan,
and always took the time to check on my
One month after the initial sonogram,
had been monitoring Mrs. Mari and was
husband and me, too,” said Mrs. Mari.
Dina El Kady, MD, Director of the Mater-
ready to perform surgery when Lauren
“Each person we encountered made the
nal Fetal Medicine Program, performed
was just one day old. After the operation
hardest time of our lives a little easier. We
a second sonogram and fetal MRI which
successfully cleared the blockage, Lauren
are blessed to have had each of the angels
distinctly showed a “double bubble” where
could not take nourishment by mouth
that work in Good Sam’s NICU treat our
the baby’s stomach should have been.
for two weeks and remained under the
This indicated that air was trapped in the
watchful eyes of the expert staff in the
daughter.”
For more information
stomach and duodenum, confirming the
hospital’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
on pediatric services, call
devastating diagnosis. However, amnio-
(NICU). Just 16 days after her surgery,
(631) 376-4444 or scan
centesis testing revealed that their baby
Lauren was discharged from Good
this QR code with your
did not have Down syndrome. Over the
Samaritan and is now a healthy, happy
smartphone.
www.good-samaritan-hospital.org
7
A Heads Up on Concussion in Students
Four hundred thousand
concussions occurred in
multidisciplinary team. Pediatric Center staff
A concussion is a common but serious
brain injury. It is the result of a direct or
use the ImPACT® system, a computer-based
student athletes in the United States during
indirect force to the head. More than 90%
tool, to perform baseline assessments and
the 2008-2009 school year. Sports are the
of concussions occur without any loss of
evaluate an athlete’s ability to return to play
second leading cause of traumatic brain
consciousness.
after suffering a concussion.
injury among 15- to 24-year-olds.
“It is important to see a physician with
Symptoms may include headache, nausea,
New York State, along with the rest of
specialty training in concussion management
difficulty concentrating and irritability.
the nation, has mandated specific policies
if you suspect a concussion may have
The Pediatric Center at Good Sam’s
for managing concussion in student athletes.
Think Smart!™ concussion management
occurred,” said pediatric neurologist Sarita
The cornerstone of the policy is threefold;
program provides evaluations to middle and
Duchatelier, MD.
it includes educating parents, coaches and
high school athletes using a team approach.
students about the risk of concussions,
Board-certified pediatric neurologists, pedia-
on pediatric services at
removing injured athletes from play, and
tricians, physical therapists and rehabilitation
Good Samaritan, call (631)
requiring a physician’s clearance before an
specialists, speech pathologists, and other
376-4444 or scan this QR
injured athlete is permitted back in the game.
health care professionals spearhead the
code with your smartphone.
For more information
Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy
for Adults and Children
• Comprehensive services at one location
with convenient parking
• State-of–the-art equipment and
modalities (including laser therapy)
•P
ediatric feeding and
handwriting programs
• Appointments available
Monday – Friday, 7:00 am – 8:30 pm
Saturday, 7:00 am – noon
• Advanced training in the latest
therapy techniques
• F ree sports screens offered for
all ages
• Evidence-based practice treatment
• Dedicated therapist, offering one-to-one
therapy
• Orthopedic and neurological
specialty programs
• F ree balance screens for fall
prevention
• Trained physical, occupational and
speech therapists—adult and pediatric
560 Union Blvd., West Islip (corner Union Blvd. and Keith Lane)
Please feel free to call (631) 376-4109 with any questions or to make an appointment for therapy.
8
GOOD news from good sam | july 2014
Good Sam’s Child Life Program
Makes a Difference
F
or children and their parents,
facing a hospital stay can be intimidating. When four-year-old Madison
returned to Good Sam’s Pediatric Unit
for the second time in less than a year, a child life
specialist focused on making her experience more
comfortable using activities that were comforting
and familiar such as art, play and education. Madison has nephrotic syndrome, a kidney disorder that
can cause fluid retention and severe bloating. She
needed drug therapy and blood tests over several
days to return her to normal.
“If it hadn’t been for the child life specialist provid-
ing Madison with stimulation and diversions during
her stay, she would not have been able to handle the
discomfort of the tests as well as she did,” said her
mother, Rayna Subbiondo. “She loves her magic
wand they gave her to hold when they took blood.”
Since 2003, Good Samaritan’s Child Life Program
has provided a safe haven for children. Whether they
Rayna Subbiondo with her daughter, Madison, in the playroom.
are busy enjoying activities in the pediatric playroom or
working on an art project with a specialist at their bedside, child life
accommodate him or her during their hospital visit or stay.”
The playroom at Good Samaritan is the busiest place on the
encourages kids to be themselves. No medical procedures are per-
pediatric unit. Here, patients take a break from tests, doctors,
formed in the playroom, making it a safe place where children are
nurses and stress to play with their favorite doll, game or toy.
free to relax. Child life specialists assist children and their families
Child life specialists in the hospital stock the playroom with
to better cope with a hospital experience and deal with their fears
the latest toys and games. Child life specialists also ensure that
and anxieties. The program promotes emotional well-being and
children who are unable to leave their rooms have access to toys
normal development through a variety of therapeutic activities.
and activities, utilizing mobile video game and computer systems
From the change in routine, to the very real discomfort that
and other portable forms of entertainment. The staff also strives
sometimes accompanies a hospitalization, children with special
to keep children connected with their educational lives outside
developmental needs often require added support when they are
the hospital by providing a licensed teacher to act as a liaison
hospitalized.
between patients and their own schools.
“For children with special needs, the Child Life Program works
A special feature of the program is the colorful outdoor roof-
to help them master the demands of their medical care,” said
top therapeutic garden that is adjacent to the playroom. Here,
Director of Child Life Joan Alpers. “We encourage parents to call
children can play in the fresh air, participate in horticultural
us in advance of a planned hospital visit to tell us about their child’s
therapy, and spend a few minutes just being a kid.
For information on the Child Life Program, please call (631) 376-4444.
special needs so that we can help prepare the child and better
www.good-samaritan-hospital.org
9
Good Samaritan Hospital Guilds
Central Council Swears in New President
I
N april, President of the Central
Council of the Guilds of Good
Samaritan Vera Meinhold handed
the gavel to first Vice President Marie
Nicharico at the group’s annual Recognition Luncheon. Ms. Meinhold, a member
of the Lindenhurst/N. Babylon Guild, was
thanked for her successful two-year term,
during which time more than $500,000
was donated to the Good Samaritan Hospital Foundation for various programs, including pediatrics, cancer, intensive care
services and the Emergency Department.
Made up of volunteers from surrounding
communities, the Guilds have given more
than 309,000 combined hours of service to
the hospital over the past 54 years.
Ms. Meinhold and Ms. Nicharico, a
member of the Copaigue/Massapequa/
Amityville Guild, have volunteered at Good
Samaritan Hospital since 1981giving 17,000
hours combined. Both are retired teachers
who taught in Susan E. Wiley Elementary
(L-R): Good Samaritan Hospital Assistant Vice
President of Public Affairs and Marketing Theresa
Jacobellis, President of the Central Council of the
Guilds of Good Samaritan Marie Nicharico and
Past President of the Central Council of the Guilds
of Good Samaritan Vera Meinhold.
School in Copiague.
For more information about the Guilds of
Good Samaritan Medical Center or to register
as a volunteer, please call Director of Volunteer
Services Susan Grimm at (631) 376-3659.
Good Samaritan Hospital Hosts Winning Event
The Good Samaritan Hospital Foundation held a winning event, “Night at the Races,” raising more than $65,000 to benefit cardiac
services at the hospital. Major sponsors included the Guilds of Good Samaritan Hospital and the West Islip Breast Cancer Coalition.
Additional sponsors included Danny O’Donnell, and Members Handicapped Children’s Fund, Inc. and Progressive Emergency Physicians
Management, LLC. Guests were welcomed to a Kentucky Derby themed event where they had the opportunity to play various casino games,
win prizes and enter a “Best in Show” hat contest.
(L-R): West Islip Breast Cancer Coalition
Treasurer Donna Marano, President Margaret
Campise, Good Samaritan Hospital Executive
Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer
Nancy Simmons, and Coalition Administrative
Coordinator Gina Marrone.
10
GOOD news from good sam | july 2014
(L-R): Guilds of Good Samaritan Hospital members Ingrid DiGiovanna and Millie Mascari, Guild
Central Council Past President Vera Meinhold, Guild member Laurie Feldscher, Guild Central
Council President Marie Nicharico, Guild member Olga Floresta, Good Samaritan Hospital
Assistant Vice President of Cardiology Services Halsey Bagg and Executive Vice President and
Chief Administrative Officer Nancy Simmons, Guild members Bernadette Nee, Marilyn Roberts,
Sara Banks and Jackie Diaz.
2014 Volunteer Awards Luncheon
We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the Guilds of Good Samaritan Hospital Medical Center for their
dedication and to the volunteers who were honored for their many hours of service.
AWESOME Seated L to R: Copiague/
Massapequa/Amityville Guild’s Marie
Nicharico (9,000 hours), Great South
Bay Guild’s Gloria Bracken (9,000 hours),
Lindenhurst/North Babylon Guild’s Vera
Meinhold (8,000 hours). Standing L to R:
Copiague/Massapequa/Amityville Guild’s
Eleanor Lloyd (8,000 hours), Lindenhurst/
North Babylon Guild’s Kenneth Weckerle
(8,000 hours). Missing from photo Dix
Hills/Deer Park Guild’s Barbara Kenny
(9,000 hours).
UNBELIEVABLE L to R: Lindenhurst/North Babylon
Guild’s Ruth Johnson (20,000 hours) and Great
South Bay Guild’s Ingeburg Luttmann (35,123 hours).
OUTSTANDING Seated
L to R: Lindenhurst/
North Babylon Guild’s
Adele Reve (16,000
hours) and Ann
Bukowski (14,000
hours), Great South Bay
Guild’s Nancy O’Keefe
(12,000 hours). Standing
L to R: Dix Hills/Deer
Park Guild’s William
Neuner (11,000 hours),
Lindenhurst/North
Babylon Guild’s Rose
Esposito (12,000 hours),
Great South Bay Guild’s
Bernadette Nee (12,000
hours) and Frederick
Tucker (10,000 hours).
ADDITIONAL HONOREES
500 HOURS
Copiague/Massapequa/Amityville
Joan R. Miller
Dix Hills/Deer Park
Graciela Parral
Great South Bay
Catherine Bonavoglia
Ada Catalano
Alice Coughlin
Terri Drossos
Jean Ann Gottsch
Deborah Mischuch
David Raio
Lindenhurst/North
Babylon
Rosa Lopez
Patricia O’Gara
Herbert Staer
Wyandanch Guild
Kisha Jordan
100 HOURS
Copiague/Massapequa/Amityville
Lorraine Kraft
Julian Lindo
Robert Loeschner
Carol Pizzo
Dix Hills/Deer Park
Fred Kaplar
Winny Melin
Patricia Ossenfort
Reissa Preston
Lena Prochilo
Great South Bay
Vicki Allen
Arlene Aurecchione
Patricia Healy
Wendy Hogan
Daniel MacAvoy
Valerie Marino
Collette McInerney
Joan Nash
Judith Ryan
Phyllis White
Lindenhurst/North
Babylon
Travis Courtney
Barbara Innes
Alexis Lee
Eleanor Nistico
Jeff Obas
Charlene Polidino
Ellen Sharkey
Cynthia Ziesel
FANTASTIC Seated L to R: Dix Hills/Deer Park
Guild’s Lois Fleischman (5,000 hours), Copiague/
Massapequa/Amityville Guild’s Patricia Florie (4,000
hours), Great South Bay Guild’s Jacqueline Diaz
(6,000 hours). Standing L to R: Great South Bay
Guild’s Margery Stewart (4,000 hours), Lindenhurst/
North Babylon Guild’s Beatrice Stysiack (6,000
hours) and Jean Morse (5,000 hours).
WOW Seated L to R: Great South Bay Guild’s Alice
Salmon (3,000 hours) and Alice Russell (3,000
hours), Copiague/Massapequa/Amityville Guild’s
Angela Morgante (1,000 hours). Standing L to R:
Lindenhurst/North Babylon Guild’s Denise Mace
(1,000 hours) and Jan Klein (1,000 hours).
www.good-samaritan-hospital.org
11
Wireless EEG Test Used in
Diagnosis of Epilepsy
Lindenhurst resident
Christine Morse’s five-yearold son, Robert, was having difficulty
staying on task in school. He was frequently acting out and seemed unable to
stay focused. They were sent to pediatric
neurologist Keith Chu Cheong, MD, at
Good Samaritan’s Center for Pediatric
Specialty Care. As part of his evaluation,
Robert had a routine EEG done which
raised suspicions that his problem was
more than behavioral.
This test was followed by a video
EEG, which typically requires a one- to
two-day hospital stay, during which time
the child is continuously recorded. In this
way, neurologists are able to observe a
child’s behavior, while also seeing brainwave patterns to determine if seizures
are occurring.
There are many types of seizures which
can be difficult to diagnose. Continuous
of epilepsy (a brain disorder which causes
seizures). It is a non-invasive procedure
that locates the region of the brain where
seizures begin, making medical or surgical
treatment more precisely targeted and
successful.
The purpose of video EEG monitoring is
to record the electrical activity of the brain
between and during seizures, and to have
a video of what happens during a typical
seizure for the patient. The ability to precisely correlate the signs and symptoms
on video recordings with the EEG changes
provides the most important information
for diagnosis and treatment.
Video EEG is part of the comprehensive
Child Neurologist and Chief of the Pediatric EEG
Program at Good Samaritan Hospital Keith Chu
Cheong, MD, monitoring Robert’s EEG results
while his mother, Christine, looks on.
diagnostic and treatment services provided
by Board-certified pediatric neurologists
in Good Samaritan’s Center for Pediatric
video EEG monitoring is the most informa-
Specialty Care.
For more information, please call
tive test for establishing the diagnosis
(631) 376-4444.
Good Samaritan Offers
Support to Those
Facing Loss of a Baby
opportunity to love, celebrate,
and grieve for their baby in a
early pregnancy loss.
In January, “Gabriel’s
supportive environment, Good
Courage,” hospice or pal-
Samaritan started “Emily’s
liative care for the imperiled
Gift,” a program to ensure
newborn, was launched.
that services are consistently
This program encompasses
provided to bereaved families
all perinatal bereavement
through a collaborative and
services. Expectant moms and
holistic approach. The mission
dads who learn of a critical
encounter. During this time,
was to build a bond strong
fetal diagnosis receive sup-
whether before or
there is nothing more impor-
enough to hold the weight of
port from a team of pediatric
soon after birth,
tant than providing compas-
heavy hearts by formulating
specialists, care management
is the most heart-wrenching
sion and understanding. In
a standard of care for parents
experts and pastoral care
experience a parent can
an effort to offer families an
who have experienced an
providers. The primary focus
T
12
he loss of a baby,
GOOD news from good sam | july 2014
Pediatric Surgeon Removes Difficult
Tumor from 18-Month-Old Baby
C
hief of Pediatric Surgery Vinci Jones, MD,
recently removed a two-pound tumor from
18-month old Marisela Lori’s back. Marisela was
born with the tumor, called a sacrococcygeal tera-
toma, the most common tumor in newborns with an incidence
of one in 50,000 births. This type of tumor is not normally life
threatening but can be very debilitating and sometimes malignant. Marisela was born in the Dominican Republic and her
family lacked access to sophisticated health care, which prevented her from having surgery until her parents, Stephanie
and Joel, moved to the United States.
Apart from projecting out from her back, the tumor had
also grown into her abdomen displacing several of her internal
organs. The six-hour surgery was performed using minimally
(L-R): Good Samaritan Hospital’s Chief of Pediatric Surgery Vinci Jones, MD,
and Joel Lori holding Marisela.
invasive laparoscopic techniques. Testing later confirmed that
children. At Good Samaritan he has established the first pediatric
the tumor was benign ensuring that Marisela did not require any
robotic program on Long Island. Dr. Jones is one of just a handful
further treatment.
of general pediatric surgeons in the world certified in robotic
Marisela has recovered well with no complications and was
discharged from the hospital five days after surgery.
Dr. Jones has extensive experience in advanced minimally
invasive surgical techniques including robotic-assisted surgery in
surgery and has successfully completed more than 25 robotic
procedures at Good Sam.
For information on pediatric services at Good Samaritan Hospital,
call (631) 376-4444 or visit www.good-samaritan-hospital.org.
of perinatal hospice is on the
consists of the mother, her
ral process was developed
every May and October since
family—not the fetal diagnosis
unborn child, her family, the
in order to identify families in
2009, providing bereaved
and attendant abnormalities. physician or team of physi-
need and ensure a consistent,
families comfort and strength
cians including primary care,
interdisciplinary, holistic
through their journey of loss.
honor to walk alongside these
a geneticist, perinatologist,
approach and continuity of
families in their journey toward
obstetrician, labor and delivery
care for the families.
healing and hope,” said Janet
nurses, chaplains, child life
Stevens, RNC-OB, co-coordi-
specialists, social worker
of the Unborn was offered for
nator of Emily’s Gift. “Each of
and bereavement counselors.
families who lost a baby, up
Care’s Sr. Ellen Moore, OP.
For more information on
these children has their own
These experts help families
to 20-weeks gestation. Burial
Good Samaritan’s perinatal
story to tell and I am humbled
prepare for the birth and death
took place at the Queen of
bereavement program,
to be touched by the grace
of their baby with emphasis
All Saints Cemetery in Central
please call (631) 376-4444 or
they bestow on us as nurses.”
on their preferences, wants,
Islip. Good Samaritan has
visit www.good-samaritan-
needs and desires. A refer-
been offering this service
hospital.org.
“It is a privilege and an
The central hospice team
“This religious service aligns
with the hospital’s mission to
In May, a Community Burial
cherish every life,” said Pastoral
www.good-samaritan-hospital.org
13
Woman of Distinction Award
G
uild member Marilyn
Guild and Central Council and is credited
Roberts was among local
in helping organize vendor sales and in
community members re-
revitalizing the Good Samaritan Hospital
cently honored by Assem-
Thrift Shop in Babylon. She has been a
blyman Joseph Saladino at the Women
wonderful ambassador for Good Samari-
of Distinction Awards held at the West
tan Hospital and truly made a difference
Islip Library. With more than 42 years of
to the community and patients it serves.
service to the Good Samaritan Hospital
Ms. Roberts owns and operates Tri-
Guilds, made up of volunteers from
State Appraisal in Babylon, established
surrounding communities, Ms. Roberts
Assemblyman Joseph Saladino and honoree
Marilyn Roberts.
with her late husband, Tom Roberts. Ad-
Since joining the Baxter Guild in the early
fashion shows, wine auctions and cocktail
of The Morgan Center, founded by her
1970s, she has proven to be a loyal friend
parties. She recently stepped down from
daughter, Nancy Zuch, dedicated to pro-
and supporter of the Guilds and the hos-
the Central Council Executive Committee
viding preschool age children with cancer
pital. Ms. Roberts organized and chaired
after serving since 1982. In addition, she
the opportunity to learn and socialize in a
many events including Christmas fairs,
served as President for both the Baxter
safe environment. n
is one of the longest-serving members.
Town of Islip Honors
Nurse Practitioner
Nurse Practitioner Jennifer
Davis, ANP, was among
several members of the
community recently honored
at the Town of Islip Women’s
History Celebration Awards.
This event was established
to recognize exceptional
contributions made by local
residents to the town.
Ms. Davis, who has been
with Good Samaritan since
1999, first as a registered
nurse in the Emergency
Department and now a nurse
practitioner in Neurosurgery,
14
Jennifer Davis, ANP
was nominated primarily for
her dedication to patient care
and her volunteer efforts
in the community. Committed to doing whatever is
GOOD news from good sam | july 2014
necessary for her patients,
Ms. Davis has always gone
above and beyond to provide
the highest quality of care.
Additionally, she selflessly
spends much of her free
time helping organizations
including volunteering for
Camp Joslin, located in
Charlton, Massachusetts,
and affiliated with the
Joslin Diabetes Center, during
her vacations. Because of
her own experience with
diabetes, Ms. Davis feels
compelled to help others
cope with the disease. n
ditionally, Ms. Roberts is an active member
the following
orthopedic surgeons
have moved
to 661 Deer Park Avenue,
Babylon, NY 11702
(631) 376-0700
Jonathan Owens, MD
Specializing in Adult Reconstruction
Surgery for Hips and Knees
Arthur Pallotta, MD
Specializing in Hand/Wrist
and Elbow Surgery
Saila Patel, DO
Orthopedic Traumatologist
A Division of Southwest Suffolk Medical
Affiliated with Good Samaritan Hospital
Medical Center
Community Calendar
7/2 Wednesday • 10 am – Noon
9/3 Wednesday • 10 am – Noon
10/1 Wednesday • 10 am – Noon
Bay Shore-Brightwaters Public Library,
One South Country Road, Brightwaters
No Appointment Necessary
Bay Shore-Brightwaters Public Library,
One South Country Road, Brightwaters
No Appointment Necessary
Bay Shore-Brightwaters Public Library,
One South Country Road, Brightwaters
No Appointment Necessary
7/14 Monday • 3 – 4 pm
9/10 Wednesday • Noon
10/7 Tuesday • 11 am – 3 pm
Blood Pressure Screenings
Glaucoma Screenings
Good Samaritan Hospital Main Lobby
No Appointment Necessary
7/15
Tuesday • 6 – 7:30 pm
Learn to Be Tobacco Free
Six week smoking cessation program:
7/15, 7/22, 7/29, 8/5, 8/12, 8/19 and
reunion 9/9
The Long Island Cancer Help and Wellness Center, 32 Park Avenue, Bay Shore
8/4 Monday • 10 am – 4 pm
Good Samaritan Blood Drive
Mobile units
Blood Pressure Screenings
Good Samaritan University Community Lecture:
Sponsored by Shannon Falcone-Macleod, PC
Aging Gracefully —
Managing Alzheimer’s
Babylon Public Library,
24 South Carll Avenue
9/18 Thursday • Time TBA
Good Samaritan University Community Lecture:
Women’s Wellness —
Nature’s Way: Non-Hormonal
Ways to Navigate Life Changes
Location TBA
Good Samaritan University Community Lecture:
Bay Shore-Brightwaters Public Library,
One South Country Road, Brightwaters
No Appointment Necessary
West Islip Fire Department,
309 Union Blvd.
8/16 Saturday • 10:30 am – 2:30 pm
9/29 Monday • 7 am – 7 pm
Plant Based Diet for
Beginners: How to Get Started
The ABC’s of Children’s Health
Good Samaritan Blood Drive
Westfield South Shore Mall,
Sunrise Highway, Bay Shore
Patio Café and mobile units
Save
the
Date!
The Theresa Patnode Santmann
Second Annual Heart and Soul
Symposium
Captain Bill’s Restaurant,
122 Ocean Avenue, Bay Shore
10/16 Thursday • Time TBA
Good Samaritan University Community Lecture:
Women’s Wellness —
Breast Health
Location TBA
For more information or to register for any
of these events, please call (631) 376-4444.
9/23 Tuesday • 6 pm
8/6 Wednesday • 10 am – Noon
Blood Pressure Screenings
Blood Pressure Screenings
s av e t h e d at e
Glitz
putting
on the
Good Samaritan Hospital
52nd Annual Ball
Good Samaritan Hospital Presents
The ABC’s of Children’s Health
Saturday, August 16, 2014
•
10:30 AM - 2:30 PM
Featuring: Ask the Expert • Carnival Games • Activities
Children’s Health Information • Raffles • Contests and more…
Westfield South Shore Mall, Sunrise Highway, Bay Shore
Friday, September 12, 2014
Crest Hollow Country Club
Woodbury, NY
K
K
$300 per person
Cocktails at six o’clock
Dinner at half past
seven o’clock
www.good-samaritan-hospital.org
15
NON-PROFIT ORG.
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
Hicksville, NY
PERMIT No. 000
1000 Montauk Highway
West Islip, NY 11795
(631) 376-4444
www.good-samaritan-hospital.org
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brave sam
playful sam
Good Samaritan.
We specialize in treating kids.
When your child needs specialized medical care,
Good Samaritan is here for you.
•O
nly Pediatric Emergency Department Staffed by Pediatricians Around the Clock on
Long Island’s South Shore
• Only Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) on Long Island’s South Shore
• Largest Pediatric Multi-Specialty Outpatient Center in Suffolk County
• Long Island’s only Robotic-Assisted Pediatric Surgeon
Good Samaritan Pediatric Center / goodsampediatrics.org
sassy sam
divisions include:
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•
•
•
•
•
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•
•
•
•
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Cardiology
Child Life
Cystic Fibrosis
Endocrinology
Gastroenterology
Hematology
Infant and Child Development
Infectious Diseases
Medically Complex Children’s Program
Neonatology
Nephrology
Neurology
Nutrition Services
Pediatric Sedation
Physical Therapy
Pulmonology
Sleep Breathing Disorders
Social Work Services
Surgery