The Preemie Who Became Known as “Rocky”

GREATER
living
A GBMC PUBLICATION FOR
OUR COMMUNITY
GBMC 50TH
ANNIVERSARY
PATIENT STORY
The Preemie
Who Became
Known as
“Rocky”
Meet Your Neighbors –
GBMC at Joppa Road
Survivorship Begins
with Diagnosis
S U M M E R 2015
www.gbmc.org | GREATER living 1
content
SUMMER 2015
10
8
Survivorship
Begins with
Diagnosis
3 Preventing and Treating Gynecologic Cancers:
Everything a Woman Should Know
6 Meet Your Neighbors –
GBMC at Joppa Road
7 GBMC News Briefs
FEATURE
4
9 Living Healthy, Living Well
In My Words
New Faces at GBMC
GBMC 50th Anniversary Patient
Story – The Preemie Who
Became Known as “Rocky”
10 Wake Up! Sleep Problems
Increase Risk for Chronic Illness
11 Calendar of Events
12 GBMC Philanthropy
Read and comment on
the official GBMC blog at
http://ahealthydialogue.blogspot.com/
2 GREATER living |
Like GBMC at
Facebook.com/GBMCMedia
Follow GBMC on Twitter
twitter.com/GBMCHealthCare
Watch the GBMC Channel
youtube.com/user/GBMCMedia
regarding women
Preventing and Treating Gynecologic Cancers:
Everything a Woman Should Know
A
ccording to 2014 data from the American Cancer Society,
Kimberly Levinson, MD
an estimated 95,000 new cases of gynecologic cancer are
diagnosed each year and approximately 29,000 deaths occur.
Gynecologic cancers are defined as cancers that affect organs
within the female reproductive system, including the cervix,
fallopian tubes, ovaries, uterus, vagina and vulva. Awareness
of the symptoms is often the best defense for women.
Like many other forms of the disease, symptoms of
gynecologic cancers are location-specific. “Endometrial
cancer is the most common type of gynecologic cancer in the
United States, and our ability to catch it early depends on
women responding to symptoms of bleeding,” says
Kimberly Levinson, MD, a gynecologic oncologist at GBMC’s
Sandra & Malcolm Berman Cancer Institute. “Any episode of
post-menopausal bleeding is abnormal and is a symptom that
should be examined by a gynecologist.” Though not every
episode of post-menopausal bleeding indicates a
pre-cancerous or cancerous lesion, the bleeding is often an
opportunity to catch atypical cell growth early.
prevented via screening and vaccination,” says Dr. Levinson.
“It is critical to vaccinate our daughters and sons prior to
exposure to the virus so we can keep them from contracting
it in the first place.”
Vulvar and vaginal cancers are the rarest gynecologic
cancers, often presenting with symptoms such as itching,
irritation or pain, or simply a raised or visible lesion. It can be
“HPV-associated cervical cancer can largely be
prevented via screening and vaccination.”
— Dr. Levinson
difficult to distinguish benign lesions from malignant ones, so
all lesions should be examined and biopsies may be necessary.
Treatments for gynecologic cancers include minimally
invasive surgeries such as robotic surgery, laparoscopic surgery
and single-incision surgery as well as more extensive open
Ovarian cancer is the most difficult to detect early, as
there is no good screening mechanism for it. It spreads quickly
and might not cause symptoms until its advanced stages.
Patients tend to report persistent symptoms of abdominal
bloating, changes in bowel or bladder habits and feeling full
quickly. Conversely, cervical cancer is easily detected through
screening and is slow-growing with a long pre-malignant state,
meaning physicians can often stop the disease before it
spreads. However, in order to do so, patients must keep up with
regular screening practices so that the pre-malignant stages
can be detected.
abdominal procedures, which are offered at GBMC’s Women’s
Surgical Center. Minimally invasive procedures have drastically
changed treatment for gynecologic cancer patients. According
to Dr. Levinson, the development of minimally invasive
techniques has yielded tremendous improvements in patient
outcomes. “Recovery times are quicker and infection rates,
pain scores and other surgical complications are significantly
decreased.”
“The important thing is that women are aware of the
symptoms, aware of the screening available and aware of how
gynecologic cancers can be treated if they do occur.”
Pap smears and human papillomavirus (HPV) testing can
help identify women at risk for developing cervical cancer so
abnormal cells can be removed before they become invasive.
HPV is a known cause of cervical cancer and a vaccine is
For more information on gynecologic
cancers and services, visit www.gbmc.org/
gynoncology or call 443-849-GBMC (4262).
available. “HPV-associated cervical cancer can largely be
www.gbmc.org | GREATER living 3
in my words
GBMC 50TH ANNIvERSARy PATIENT SToRy
The Preemie Who Became Known as “Rocky”
Every single member of the GBMC family
that we encountered during Grayson’s stay
was special. The nurses and NICU staff
became family to us — they cried when
we cried, laughed when we laughed and
were there when we needed a hug.
The doctors were the most caring that I
have ever encountered — Dr. Sabah Helou
and Dr. Kendall Jenkins included, and
Dr. Maria Pane in particular. My wife and I
truly believe that Grayson is with us today
because of Dr. Pane. There were times
when she sat with us and prayed over
NICU patient Grayson Hundt,
wearing his father’s wedding
ring as a bracelet
Grayson. One night, after we had been
told that Grayson may not make it until
morning, we decided to have him baptized
by his grandfather. Dr. Pane joined us.
As part of GBMC’s 50th Anniversary celebration, employees, volunteers,
patients and community members have been submitting “Because of GBMC”
stories, detailing how GBMC’s medical team and services have made a
difference in their lives. This is the story of Grayson Hundt, a former Neonatal
Intensive Care Unit (NICU) patient who continues to beat the odds regardless
of what comes his way. His story is told by his father, Michael Hundt.
On August 11, 2014, Grayson was
transferred to Johns Hopkins Children’s
Hospital. He was treated for electrolyte
imbalances and was there for two months.
We were finally able to bring him home in
October and he was sent home with a
G tube, feeding pump, oxygen and at least
11 prescription drugs.
G
rayson’s story is a long one. On
was nothing more the GBMC staff could
March 28, 2014, my wife, Heather,
do, and that Grayson might not make it to
entered GBMC in full labor at 23 weeks
the morning. Somehow, he always did. He
and 1 day into her pregnancy. I was in
was at GBMC from March 28 to August 11,
Boston at the time. She was told the
and when he left the NICU, he had two
baby would have less than a 35 percent
chest tubes, a ventilator for two months,
chance of survival. He was born weighing
three surgeries, countless scans, X-rays,
1 pound, 15 ounces and was sent to the
blood work, approximately 22 blood
NICU — where he was placed on a
transfusions and other tests.
ventilator and into an incubator —
immediately after birth.
While in the NICU, Grayson was
The first night in the NICU, Corin was
Grayson’s nurse. His entire body looked
like one big bruise and his eyes were still
diagnosed with a stage 3 and 4 bleed on
closed. He continued to try to breathe on
the right and left side of the brain,
his own despite the ventilator. Corin kept
respectively. His condition was so severe
saying he was a fighter, “just like ‘Rocky,’”
that on several nights we were told there
and the nickname stuck.
4 GREATER living |
Preemie Grayson Hundt fighting for his life in
GBMC’s NICU.
Left and center: Baby Grayson, also known as Rocky, at home; Right: the Hundt family sporting t-shirts with the mantra “slow and steady” to
support their youngest member.
and we have an eight-year-old and a
“Because of GBMC, we still have our only son,
and we couldn’t be more grateful.”
— Michael Hundt
six-year-old. Each one of our kids is
different in his or her own way and it is
great to be a part of that. We love being
parents to our wonderful children,
Chelsea, Nicole, Kelsey, Jordin, Micaela
and Grayson.
Grayson is now off of the oxygen,
a week and clinical appointments a few
Because of GBMC, we still have our
and has the G tube for night feedings only
times a month. Grayson is now 16 months
only son, and we couldn’t be more
with a plan in place to stop soon. He no
old, with an adjusted age of 11 months.
grateful. As word spread about Grayson,
longer needs three of his medications and
In the next couple of months, we will start
he was added to prayer lists around the
he weighs 14 pounds, 8 ounces. He makes
to see if there are signs of cerebral palsy or
world. A stranger named Kyle sent this
a lot of noises, which always makes us
any other issues from his early birth.
lovely poem, which now hangs on
happy. He has physical therapy and
occupational therapy at home once
Grayson is one of six children and
Heather and I decided from the beginning
that he will live a normal life
Grayson in GBMC’s NICU, a “miracle” survivor.
Grayson’s bedroom wall as a reminder
of his strength. Our family would like to
share it with you.
despite any issues. We feel so
I may be tiny, but I am strong
much better sleeping at night
I will not question what’s right or wrong
since Grayson came home
Focused, committed, resolved
and we do everything we
A puzzle for life, needing to be solved
can as a family. Heather and
Through the night, into the day
I have five daughters: one is
My name is Grayson, and I am here
a special education teacher,
to stay!
two daughters are in college,
Read more of our 50th Anniversary patient
stories at www.gbmc50.com and share your
own at www.gbmc50.com/mystory.
www.gbmc.org | GREATER living 5
primary care
Meet your Neighbors – GBMC at Joppa Road
The physicians and staff of the GBMC at Joppa Road primary care practice.
W
hen it comes to healthcare, the patient
Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, available
Additionally, the practice is equipped to care
should always come first. That is why
to care for patients as young as 18 years
for patients who primarily speak Spanish or
every GBMC primary care practice functions as
and through adulthood to old age. Lama Al
Arabic. If needed, nurse care managers and
a patient-centered medical home (PCMH),
Samara, MD, is also board-certified in
care coordinators are also available to help
focusing on providing patients with better
Internal Medicine with a special training in
patients navigate the healthcare system. They
health and better care at a lower cost. In
Dermatology and Endocrinology. In addition to
can offer assistance with obtaining referrals,
addition to delivering evidence-based care,
the three physicians on the care team, nurse
making follow-up appointments and locating
preventive medicine and management of
practitioner Johannah Butler, CRNP, has
social or financial resources to help patients
chronic illness, PCMHs include patients as
experience in adult and pediatric primary care
meet their goals.
integral parts of their own care. Through
and women’s health. She acts as an extension
proactive monitoring, caregivers help to keep
of the physicians to offer convenient, timely
of GBMC’s PCMH practices, have secure and
patients healthy and out of the hospital.
access to care.
easy access to their electronic health records
GBMC at Joppa Road is one of the
Other benefits of GBMC at Joppa Road
Patients of GBMC at Joppa Road, or any
(EHR) through a Web-based tool known as
organization’s nine PCMHs. The practice is
include free parking and an on-site lab to make
myGBMC. Using myGBMC, patients can
located near the Towson Place Shopping
blood testing more convenient for patients.
request prescription refills, look up test
Center and Calvert Hall College High School on
Like all PCMHs, the physicians and staff focus
results, communicate electronically with
LaSalle Road in Towson. With a care team that
on wellness and prevention of illness, but they
their caregivers and view past and current
consists of three physicians, one nurse
build time into their schedules to care for
statements. This is one more way that patients
practitioner and nine other staff members, the
walk-in patients who are sick or have minor
are empowered to participate in their
practice has extended weekday hours to
urgencies such as sprains. Appointments are
own care.
accommodate patients’ busy schedules.
required for non-sick visits like physicals.
Paul valle, MD, is board-certified in both
Family Medicine and Geriatrics, meaning that
he is qualified to treat a wide age group of
people, from pediatric patients to senior
citizens. Alan Halle, MD, is board-certified in
6 GREATER living |
GBMC at Joppa Road is accepting patients of all ages. For more information
about the practice’s office hours, insurance accepted or other inquiries, visit
www.mygbmcdoctor.com/jopparoad or call 443-849-GBMC (4262).
in the news
Congratulating GBMC’s Top Nurses!
GBMC physicians have consistently had a strong showing in Baltimore magazine’s annual
“Top Doctors” edition, a testament to the outstanding care provided by physicians organizationwide. This year, the magazine has released a second list of exceptional medical providers,
recognizing 50 of the region’s top nurses for their extraordinary contributions to healthcare.
The inaugural “Excellence in Nursing” issue was released in May and featured seven GBMC
HealthCare nurses recognized by their peers in five of eighteen represented specialties. Baltimore
magazine accepted nominations from the selected nurses’ peers, supervisors and patients and
reviewed the submissions over a nine-month period. A panel of advisors — comprised of
representatives from the Maryland Nurses Association and major local hospitals — aided the
magazine in tallying the nominations.
Time for Me!
Fall 2015
Congratulations to the following GBMC
HealthCare Excellence in Nursing honorees:
• Cynthia Arnold, CRNP
The FREE Time for Me! women’s
• Amanda Hindle, RN
health lecture series is an
• Jaclyn Mueller, RN
opportunity for women to
• Marla Newmark, RN
learn more about health
• Ganotong Tongprom, RN
issues straight from GBMC
• Carol Hay, RN — Gilchrist Hospice Care
physicians. Join us for one or
• Kristin Metzger, RN — Gilchrist Hospice Care
more of our Fall 2015 lectures!
These nurses represent the finest in their field, and we could not be more proud of their
dedication to their work.
Blog – Read GBMC’s official blog,
A Healthy Dialogue, featuring President
and CEO, John Chessare, MD, at
ahealthydialogue.blogspot.com.
Facebook – “Like” GBMC’s page today!
Keep up with community events, health
tips and information, and more at
facebook.com/GBMCMedia.
Twitter – Follow us at
twitter.com/GBMCHealthCare for
up-to-the-minute information about GBMC.
YouTube – Check out recent videos
of our physicians and patients at
youtube.com/GBMCMedia.
Many are also available in the Video
Library at gbmc.org/Video.
Pinterest – Follow us on Pinterest for
recipes, health tips and more at
Pinterest.com/GBMCMedia.
LinkedIn – Connect with us on LinkedIn
for hot jobs and more!
Google+ – Follow us on Google+ for the
latest GBMC news and health information.
yet, but will be posted on
our Web page as the
A complete list is available at www.baltimoremagazine.net/top-nurses-2015.
CONNECT WITH GBMC
Topics are not available
Pilates for Pelvic
Floor Study
The GBMC Urogynecology Department
is conducting a research study regarding
dates approach.
Tuesday, October 6, 2015
Tuesday, October 13, 2015
Tuesday, October 20, 2015
Tuesday, October 27, 2015
pelvic floor Pilates and treatment of
stress urinary incontinence,
All events begin at 6:30 p.m.
a condition defined by urine
We encourage you to bring
leakage with coughing,
along family and friends!
laughing, sneezing or
Look for more information
exertion. The study aims to
or register for lectures
find an alternative treatment option, combining
on our website at
Pilates with pelvic floor muscle training to help
www.gbmc.org/timeforme.
women control their incontinence symptoms
and improve their quality of life. To determine
eligibility, make an appointment with the
Urogynecology Department. The first 30 patients
to qualify will be seen by a physical therapist and
Chandhana Paka, MD, GBMC’s urogynecology
fellow, to learn the six-week Pilates program.
For more information about the research study, call
443-849-2767 or email [email protected].
www.gbmc.org | GREATER living 7
cancer survivorship
Survivorship Begins with Diagnosis
J
oyce Myrick was diagnosed with fallopian tube cancer in the
summer of 2014, and her journey to recovery had a difficult
beginning. She was referred to a local hospital for chemotherapy,
but her calls to schedule appointments went unanswered. “I asked
my daughter, who’s a lawyer, to get involved so my treatment could
begin,” she says. Losing her hair took an emotional toll also,
prompting her daughter to suggest attending the American Cancer
Society’s “Look Good Feel Better” lecture series. The series, which is
held at GBMC, offers support and teaches cancer patients and
their families about beauty techniques.
“At the lecture, I was listening to another attendee talk about
her positive experiences in GBMC’s Infusion Center and was just
baffled,” Mrs. Myrick says. “I thought that all cancer treatments
were the same, that everyone had a hard time feeling cared for or
getting the information they needed.” After the lecture, Mrs. Myrick
Left: Patient Joyce Myrick
enjoying her favorite pastime,
tending to her home farm.
Above: Felicity Kirby, Oncology
Nurse Coordinator
spoke to Paul Celano, MD, a GBMC oncologist, about her treatment
and immediately transitioned to GBMC. “It was an excellent
experience from start to finish.”
Now cancer-free, one of Mrs. Myrick’s favorite aspects of care
dramatically, from 3 million in 1971 to about 13.7 million in 2014.
GBMC works to aid that population by providing supportive
at GBMC is the Survivorship Program, which is designed to help
services such as rehabilitation, nutrition, counseling, palliation
cancer patients and their families navigate the changes and
of symptoms and care coordination, among others. By using a
challenges that come with a diagnosis of and treatment for cancer.
Resource Guide provided at diagnosis, patients can organize all of
“The current accepted definition of survivorship is the process of
the information they receive throughout their care, including
living with, through and beyond cancer,” says Felicity Kirby,
education materials, treatments, medications, pain management,
Oncology Nurse Coordinator for Oncology Support Services at
test result logs and support resource listings. Patients who
GBMC. “Cancer survivorship begins at diagnosis and includes people
complete treatment and transition to follow-up care are eligible to
who continue to have treatment to either reduce risk of recurrence
meet with Ms. Kirby to receive a customized treatment summary
or to manage chronic disease. It also includes their families.”
and care plan. Surveillance, screening, prevention of recurrence
According to the American Cancer Society, the number of
and new cancers, follow-up guidelines, risk reducing strategies,
people with a history of cancer in the United States has increased
how recovery is going and more are reviewed during this visit.
GBMC’s Sandra & Malcolm Berman Cancer Institute
“During my first appointment at GBMC, everything
was handled for me,” Mrs. Myrick says. “I kept the packet
they gave me when I started my treatment, and still use it
to store my test results and information. Everyone is so
kind and always there to answer my questions. The funny
thing is that I rarely have problems because Felicity
anticipates my needs before a problem can come up.”
For more information on the Survivorship
Program at GBMC, visit www.gbmc.org/
oncologysupportservices or call 443-849-2961.
8 GREATER living |
living healthy, living well
New Faces at GBMC!
Maneesha Ahluwalia, MD, has recently joined GBMC’s Division of Infectious Disease. Dr. Ahluwalia
earned her medical degree from Ross University School of Medicine in Roseau, Dominica and
completed her residency in Internal Medicine as well as a fellowship in Infectious Disease at
New York Hospital Queens in Flushing, New York. Board-certified in both Internal Medicine and
Infectious Disease, Dr. Ahluwalia served as an infectious disease specialist at Long Island Jewish
Medical Center in New York, St. Mary’s Hospital and Medical Center in Evansville, Indiana and
Geisinger Health System in Danville, Pennsylvania. She also cared for patients abroad via Doctors
Without Borders in Kenya, Cambodia and Uganda.
Kevin S. Ferentz, MD, has joined GBMC at Owings Mills as a family medicine physician. Dr. Ferentz earned
his medical degree at the State University of New York (SUNY) Buffalo School of Medicine and completed
his Family Medicine residency at the University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore where he was
chief resident. He then completed a fellowship in faculty development and obstetrics at the University of
Maryland Medical Center and St. Agnes Hospital in Baltimore. Dr. Ferentz served on the faculty at the
University of Maryland School of Medicine for 25 years where he held several positions including the
Residency Director for the Department of Family Medicine. Most recently, Dr. Ferentz served as Chief Medical
Officer for Baltimore Medical System, Inc. and as a site medical director at Chase-Brexton Health Services.
Todd M. Melegari, MD, recently joined the Orthopaedic Specialists of Maryland practice at GBMC
as an orthopaedic surgeon. Dr. Melegari earned his medical degree at MCP Hahnemann School of
Medicine in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He completed his residency at the University of Medicine
and Dentistry of New Jersey in Newark, New Jersey and was a fellow in Sports Medicine and
Reconstruction with the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at MedStar Union Memorial Hospital in
Baltimore. Dr. Melegari is board-certified in Orthopaedic Surgery and was previously employed with
Easton Orthopaedic Group at Coordinated Health in Pennsylvania.
Anna V. Rosenbaum, MD, has recently joined the Division of Neurology and the Primary Stroke
Center at GBMC. Dr. Rosenbaum earned her medical degree at Tulane University Medical School in
New Orleans, Louisiana and was chief resident and a vascular fellow at University of Maryland Medical
Center in Baltimore. Dr. Rosenbaum previously served as a neurohospitalist prior to returning to
Baltimore. Dr. Rosenbaum enjoys teaching and her primary interests include stroke prevention and
acute stroke management.
Raya Wehbeh, MD, has joined GBMC’s Sleep Medicine Practice and Sleep Center as a sleep medicine
physician. Dr. Wehbeh received her medical degree from the University of Damascus in Syria.
She completed her residency in Neurology and had her fellowship training in both Clinical
Neurophysiology and Sleep Medicine at the University at Buffalo in Buffalo, New York. Dr. Wehbeh
is board-certified in Neurology and Sleep Medicine.
www.gbmc.org | GREATER living 9
sleep medicine
Wake Up! Sleep Problems Increase
Risk for Chronic Illness
A
bout 117 million Americans have some
pressure, heart disease and obesity,” says
form of chronic illness or disease,
Dr. Wehbeh, who is board-certified in
according to the Centers for Disease Control
Neurology and Sleep Medicine. “People who
and Prevention (CDC). The National Sleep
frequently have trouble falling asleep, staying
Foundation also reports that 37 million
asleep, or who are excessively tired throughout
American adults suffer from sleep apnea,
the day should speak with a primary care
which occurs when a person’s breathing is
physician about those symptoms instead of
disrupted during sleep. These statistics are
ignoring them. Controlling a sleep disorder like
noteworthy because sleep deprivation and
sleep apnea may help to prevent a person from
sleep disorders such as sleep apnea can
developing a more serious chronic illness later
increase the risk for some chronic illnesses.
in life,” she explains. Patients who have already
Additionally, sleep disorders can worsen the
been diagnosed with a chronic illness and are
outcome of a chronic illness.
also experiencing symptoms of poor sleep
Raya Wehbeh, MD, a physician with
should speak with their primary care physicians
GBMC’s Sleep Medicine practice and Sleep
as well. “Improving a patient’s quality of sleep
Center, specializes in the diagnosis and
often has a positive impact on his or her
treatment of patients who suffer from sleep
chronic illness,” notes Dr. Wehbeh.
disorders. “Research has linked insufficient
Fortunately, primary care physicians
sleep to an increased risk for developing
can refer patients with sleep problems to
chronic illnesses like diabetes, high blood
specialists like Dr. Wehbeh, who perform sleep
Dr. Raya Wehbeh
studies to monitor a patient’s brain waves,
symptoms, there are several things that
breathing patterns, limb movements and
patients can do at home if they’re having
snoring. Sleep studies are painless tests that
difficulty sleeping,” says Dr. Wehbeh.
require an overnight stay at GBMC. A
technician attaches wires with electrodes
to the patient and monitors the resulting
activity as the patient sleeps. After
“Try to maintain a regular sleep schedule
with a standard bedtime routine, avoid looking
at television, computer or phone screens
about a half hour before going to bed and
interpreting the results, the physician
allow yourself enough time to get seven or
will make a diagnosis and recommend
eight hours of sleep each night, which is the
a course of treatment.
recommended amount for most adults.”
“In addition to speaking with
a primary care physician about their
Speak with a primary care physician about whether
a sleep study or consultation could be beneficial for you or
a loved one. If you do not have a primary care physician,
visit www.mygbmcdoctor.com or call 443-849-GBMC (4262)
to find one who is right for you.
10 GREATER living |
calendar
Freedom from Smoking Classes
GBMC’s Calendar of Events
GBMC’s Calendar is a listing of events, classes and lectures hosted
by the hospital. A complete listing of dates, times and locations
is available at www.gbmc.org under the Community tab.
BEREAvEMENT SUPPoRT GRoUPS
Gilchrist Hospice Care
Call Gilchrist Grief Services at 443-849-8251, email
[email protected] or register
online at gilchristhospice.org/grief_registration.
Support Groups:
• Widowed Persons/Life Partner Grief
Support Group
• Adults with Parental Loss Grief Support Group
• Mother’s Grief Group (for mothers who have
lost an adult child)
Workshops:
• Craft Night
• Writing for Healing
• Learn to Meditate
• Coping with the Loss of a Loved One
• Understanding Grief
• Healing after the Loss of a Mother or Father
• Men’s Support Group (for men who have
lost a spouse/significant other)
M.I.S.S. (Miscarriage, Infant Death
and Stillborn Support)
Second Thursday of every month; 6:30 to 8 p.m.
Physicians Pavilion West Conference Room
Call 443-849-2079 for more information. FREE
CANCER SCREENINGS
Frequently offered cancer screenings at GBMC
include skin, prostate, oral, lung and voice. Please call
the screening phone line at 443-849-3080 to inquire
about dates and costs, or visit www.gbmc.org and
search for “Cancer Institute Events.” Registration is
required for all screenings. For voice screenings,
call 443-849-2087.
CANCER SUPPoRT GRoUPS
& EDUCATIoN
Dance Center Head and Neck Cancer
Patient/Family Support Group
Third Tuesday of every month; 7 to 8:30 p.m.
Call 443-849-2087 for information. FREE
Look Good Feel Better
Sessions for women with cancer that address
changes with skin and hair. Mondays: July 20,
August 3 & 17, September 21 and October 5 & 19,
2 to 4 p.m. Call 443-849-2037 to register.
*An American Cancer Society public service
program facilitated by GBMC. FREE
Tasty Tuesdays
Tuesdays: September 8, October 13, November 10,
December 8, Noon to 1 p.m. RSVP requested to
Keri Ryniak, 443-849-8186 or [email protected].
*Oncology Nutrition Discussion is offered for patients
and caregivers of GBMC only. FREE
CoMMUNITy SUPPoRT GRoUPS
Tuesdays – 6-week program, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Civiletti Conference Center
To register, contact Dan Young at 410-887-3828 or
send an email to [email protected].
FREE
15th Annual Legacy Chase Steeplechase
Saturday, September 26, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Shawan Downs, Hunt Valley, MD
Call 443-849-2773 for more information.
Perspectives in Medicine Lectures
Wednesday, october 14
5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Civiletti Conference Center,
GBMC campus
Speaker TBD
Wednesday, November 18
5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Civiletti Conference Center,
GBMC campus
Speaker TBD
Call 443-849-2773 for
more information.
Geckle Diabetes and Nutrition Center
Yoga for Stroke Survivors
Call 443-849-2036 for information on:
• Type 2 Diabetes Support Group (bimonthly
meetings): July 15, September 16 and
November 19, 7 to 8 p.m. Civiletti
Conference Center, Room C
• Type 2 Diabetes Education, including classes
• Type 1 Diabetes Education, pediatric and adult
• Gestational Diabetes Education
• Pre-Diabetes Education
• Insulin and Other Diabetes Injectable
Medication Instruction
• Intensive Diabetes Management Education
• Continuous Glucose Monitoring Education
• Insulin Pump Therapy Education
• Medical Nutrition Therapy — including education
for weight management, obesity, high cholesterol,
high blood pressure, kidney disease, celiac
disease, eating disorders, healthy eating and
other nutrition-related conditions
Mondays, 9 to 10:30 a.m.
Fridays, 9 to 10:30 a.m.
Civiletti Conference Center
Call or email Kelli Bethel at 410-302-7663 or Info@tafiya.net for more information.
Pre-registration is required.
GREATER HEALTH CLASSES
Obesity Management Information
Sessions/Support Group
Information sessions are held on one Saturday
each month from 10:30 a.m. to noon and are also
available online. Visit www.gbmc.org/weightloss
or call 443-849-8446 for exact dates and/or to
register. Support groups are held for both
pre- and post-operative patients. Please visit
www.gbmc.org/bariatricsupport or contact the office
at 443-849-3779 for dates, times and location.
PARENT EDUCATIoN CLASSES/
DoULA ToUCH PRoGRAMS
Call 443-849-BABY (2229) or visit
www.gbmc.org/parented to register.
Classes include:
• Doula Touch Program
Birth and Postpartum Support
• Mommy Matters Support Group
• Childbirth Education
(4-week format)
• Weekender
(1-day condensed format)
• “Born Free,” the
Natural Approach
to Childbirth
• Infant Care Series
and/or Workshop
• Infant Massage
• Pregnancy Information
• Select Sitters
Babysitting Class
• Parents of
Multiples
• Breastfeeding
• Pediatric
CPR/Child CPR
• Anesthesia
• Prenatal Yoga
• Sibling Class
• Mommy and
Me Yoga
• Cesarean Class
• VBAC Seminar
www.gbmc.org | GREATER living 11
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Corporate Philanthropy for GBMC Reaches
Milestone in 50th Anniversary year
SINCE 1965, GBMC has delivered exceptional
healthcare and its corporate partners play
a significant role in daily operations. They
Corporate matching programs are an easy way to
increase giving to GBMC. In general, it works this way:
also play an important part in philanthropy.
1. Request a matching gift form from your company.
During this anniversary year, corporate giving
2. Complete and submit the form along with your gift
surpassed $1 million in sponsorships, grants
and donations thanks to extraordinary support
from corporate partners and outstanding
leadership by Frank Palmer, Chair of the
Corporate Development Subcommittee.
Using the 50th Anniversary as a springboard
to the GBMC Department of Philanthropy.
3. GBMC will verify the completed form and return
it to the company.
4. The company issues a matching gift contribution
to GBMC.
5. We thank and recognize you and your company!
to personally reach out to local companies,
Mr. Palmer, the GBMC HealthCare Board of
Directors and committee members,
Programs. Through a Matching Gift Program,
a cash donation in honor of Mrs. Kamps’
administrative and clinical leadership,
companies will match tax-deductible charitable
volunteer service at the hospital. According to
employees and volunteers all worked together
gifts made by their employees, retirees and
Mrs. Kamps, “Giving through the ExxonMobil
to inspire, engage and educate local
volunteers. Some even provide matching
Foundation is easy. We would have started
companies and vendors about how they can
funds to support employee, retiree or spouse
years ago if we had known about it sooner.”
make a difference in patient care at GBMC.
volunteer hours. Many local companies sponsor
a Matching Gift Program including Bank of
You can help GBMC build corporate
and it is good for business. Studies have shown
America, BD and McCormick & Company.
giving in 2015 and for its next fifty years.
that companies that support their communities
GBMC donors Christina and Robert
Corporate philanthropy is good for GBMC
Find out if your company participates today!
through donations and volunteering not only
Morris doubled their annual gift through the
For more information, contact Jamie Lynch,
enhance their reputations, but also boost
Exelon Corporate Matching Gift Program which
CFRE, Director of Philanthropic Engagement,
employee morale.
provided a cash match for their donation.
at 443-849-2794 or [email protected].
You can help to bring greater corporate
Carol and Robert Kamps participate every
donations to GBMC and double your personal
year through the ExxonMobil Foundation
giving through Corporate Matching Gift
Volunteer Involvement Program which provides
Recognizing Our Past. Celebrating Our Future.
50th Anniversary
Gala
12 GREATER living | GBMC Philanthropy
10 . 02 . 2015
BALTIMORE CONVENTION CENTER
1 WEST PRATT STREET
BALTIMORE, MD 21201
ysicians
Superior Nursing Care Highest Quality Care Outstanding Phys
Health. Healing. Hope. Heart of Philanthropy GBMC Philanthropy Health
Heart of Philanthropy
erior Nursing Care
est Quality Care Heart of Philanthropy Outstanding Physicians Highest Quality Care Heart of Philanthro
Left to right: Dr. John Chessare, Scott Kahlert (grandson of Yvonne Kahlert), Roberta Kahlert, Greg Kahlert and
Chaplain J. Joseph Hart at the dedication of the Yvonne Kahlert Chapel
Kahlert Foundation Gift Supports GBMC’s
Spiritual Support Services Department
GREG KAHLERT is president of The Kahlert Foundation, a charitable
the addition of a chaplain will support GBMC’s patients physically,
organization with an interest in supporting healthcare, and his
mentally and spiritually.”
family has long been involved with GBMC. In 2007, the Foundation
The newly named, non-denominational Yvonne Kahlert Chapel
generously gave a gift to establish the William E. Kahlert GBMC
at GBMC’s main campus is a place of welcoming for all faith traditions.
Chair in Urologic Research in honor of Greg’s late father. In 2015, it
It is utilized on a regular basis by patients, families and staff seeking
announced a $1 million gift in honor of his late mother. The Yvonne
spiritual solace, serving as a safe place for those in need during health
Kahlert Endowment will aid GBMC’s Spiritual Support Services
and life transitions. The chapel also commemorates the legacy of
Department, provide monetary assistance to add a second chaplain
Yvonne Kahlert, a woman whose steadfast commitment to her family,
to the staff and also commemorate GBMC’s 50th anniversary.
faith and community will not be forgotten.
“While Mom was a patient at GBMC, my wife Roberta and I visited
“We are grateful for the Kahlert Foundation’s generosity and
the chapel to pray and seek spiritual comfort,” says Greg. “This gift
honored to keep Mrs. Kahlert’s memory alive through our beautiful
will enable more patients and their family members to benefit from
chapel,” says John Chessare, MD, President & CEO of GBMC
the spiritual services provided by Chaplain J. Joseph Hart and
HealthCare. “Her comforting spirit will continue to help thousands of
a second chaplain.”
patients and families for years to come.”
Chaplain Hart has been the director of GBMC’s Spiritual Support
Services Department for more than 20 years. With the help of his team,
Chaplain Hart provides spiritual support and emotional reassurance
to patients, family members and staff.
“In some areas of the country where spiritual support in hospitals
is being reduced or even eliminated, it is reassuring to know of
For more information about Spiritual Support at
GBMC, visit www.gbmc.org/spiritualsupport. To learn
more about GBMC HealthCare’s 50th Anniversary
celebration, visit www.gbmc50.com.
GBMC’s ongoing commitment to the whole-life care of patients,” says
Chaplain Hart. “Through the generosity of the Kahlert Endowment,
www.gbmc.org/philanthropy
GBMC Philanthropy | GREATER living 13
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Legacy Chase Fundraiser
Honors Cancer Survivors
MANy PATIENTS and families are grateful for the care they have
received in GBMC’s community healthcare system. The organization has
worked to perfect that care throughout 50 years of operation by offering
a wide array of patient-centered services and an investment in talent
and technology. That commitment to serving patients extends to all
departments of the healthcare system, including oncology. A cancer
diagnosis can be one of the most difficult health and life challenges, but
at the races. Many members from the GBMC oncology team attend, as
GBMC HealthCare is equipped to help make survivorship a reality.
At GBMC’s largest annual community event, Legacy Chase at Shawan
well as representatives from independent local and national cancer
organizations, to celebrate with GBMC survivors and their families.
Downs, the GBMC Philanthropy Department has the honor of hosting
This year, the Cancer Survivorship Tent will be located on Preservation
cancer survivors and their families in a yearly survivorship celebration.
The event, themed “Ride On,” boasts activities designed to help
Point along the railside to allow attendees a wonderful view of the races.
attendees share in the spirit of camaraderie and family as well as honors
It will also be located close to the Kids’ Korner activity area and food trucks
the legacies of those who have lost their battles with cancer. No matter
for convenient, easy access to family-friendly activities. Gates for the 2015
where patients are in their journeys, the theme for the event holds a
Legacy Chase event open at 10 a.m. and the first race begins at 1 p.m.
special meaning.
Those who would like to attend the Legacy Chase fundraising
The Cancer Survivorship Tent is free to all cancer survivors and gives
event must register online at www.gbmc.org/legacychase
attendees an opportunity to socialize, share experiences and enjoy a day
beginning August 1.
BE A CHAMPION FOR CANCER SURVIVORS
This year’s Legacy Chase is dedicated to those who have overcome cancer. So come out, show your support and enjoy
a Baltimore County tradition that’s full of thrilling, family-friendly fun. Join us as we celebrate survivorship.
15th Annual Legacy Chase
Saturday, September 26, 2015
Gates: 10AM–6PM
1401 Shawan Road, Cockeysville, MD 21030
14 GREATER living | GBMC Philanthropy
CELEBRATING
CANCER
SURVIVORS
Ticket Options
Farmer’s Field Parking: $35 per car | Founder’s Hill Tailgating Parking: $50 per car
Founder’s Hill Parking: $100 per car | Bring all the food, drinks & friends you want.
“GBMC Legacy Club” Luncheon Tent: $150 | Railside Box: $350
Finish Line Box: $500 | Premier Finish Line Box: $1,000
For more information, please call the GBMC Philanthropy Department at 443-8492773 or visit gbmc.org/legacychase.
ysicians
Superior Nursing Care Highest Quality Care Outstanding Phys
Health. Healing. Hope. Heart of Philanthropy GBMC Philanthropy Health
Heart of Philanthropy
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yaggy Society Member Leaves Legacy at GBMC
IN 1999, Frank Liebman thanked GBMC
After the war, Frank continued
for caring for his beloved wife, Elaine, by
to work in the children’s furniture
establishing the first of eight charitable gift
industry. He excelled in his sales
annuities. Over the next seven years, he
business and eventually relocated
contributed the gifts in gratitude to GBMC
to Baltimore. Early on, he earned
Physician Titan of Care, Gary Cohen, MD, who
the business of Toys “R” Us®, Inc.
treated Elaine for lung cancer.
The company’s management thought
In a 2005 article for a GBMC publication,
so highly of Frank that he retained
Frank told GBMC his decision to give back was
Toys “R” Us as a client, even when it
easy. “What really makes it special is the good
became an international megastore.
feeling I get from giving to an institution that
While living in Baltimore, Frank
gave me two years I would not have had with
met Elaine Landy, who attended
my wife.”
Goucher College, on a blind date.
Born in Newton, Massachusetts to Charles
They married in 1952 and bought a
and Ruth Liebman, Frank and his late brother,
home in Pikesville, where they raised
Harmon, grew up learning to be well-rounded
their two sons, John and Gary. They
people like their parents. Frank’s father was
were married for nearly 50 years.
chief radiologist at a hospital in Montreal; his
Frank continued to live in the home
mother worked in the home.
after Elaine’s death until 2010 when
Frank did not go to college. Instead, he
moved to California to work in an infant
bedding factory owned by his uncle, Eddie
declining health necessitated his
move into assisted living.
Elaine and Frank Liebman
Frank passed away in January,
Rose. World War II interrupted Frank’s
2015, almost 20 years after Elaine, at the
For more information
manufacturing career, and he served honorably
age of 91. Frank would be happy to know
about gift planning, visit
as an airplane mechanic with the Army Air
that the gifts he contributed so many years
www.gbmcplannedgiving.org. Corps. Like so many of his generation, Frank
before are now ensuring lifesaving
you may also contact
served with pride and distinction.
treatment and care for patients of GBMC’s
John Jeppi, Senior
Sandra & Malcolm Berman Cancer Institute
Director of Principal
and the Cardiology Department. Donors like
Gifts, at 443-849-3303
Frank give charitable gift annuities in return
or [email protected].
“What really makes it
special is the good
feeling I get from
giving to an institution
that gave me two years
I would not have had
with my wife.”
— Frank Liebman
for a lifetime income stream and an income
tax deduction in the year of the gift.
Frank Liebman will be remembered as
a kind and generous benefactor of GBMC. His
philanthropy and affection for Dr. Cohen are
recurring themes at GBMC. Frank once said,
“The main reason I feel so close to GBMC is
because of Dr. Cohen — in so many ways that I
cannot describe. He did everything that could
possibly have been done for Elaine.”
Contributing writer: Rabbi Jerry Seidler, JD, BCCC
www.gbmc.org/philanthropy
GBMC Philanthropy | GREATER living 15
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GreATer living is published three times a year by the
Marketing and Communications Department of Greater
Baltimore Medical Center, a private, non-profit healthcare
provider. Information provided is general in nature and
should not be substituted for the medical advice of a
physician. Please consult your healthcare provider for
recommendations specific to your own personal health,
medical treatment and conditions.
Director of Marketing
Greg Shaffer
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Whether it is cancer that
couldn’t hold you back,
another chance at a healthy life,
a baby born or a loved one you
remember, every GBMC
“Because of” story is meaningful.
Share your story at
www.GBMC50.com
443-849-GBMC (4262)