Enjoying Life After The Right Treatment 6 Tips for Life as a Lung Cancer p15 at the Right Time p22 Cancer Survivor p30

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2016

A Surgical Solution A Middletown father and musician receives expert surgical care. page 10

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We are excited to announce that Meridian Health and Hackensack POST YOUR PET’S University Health Network have joined HALLOWEEN COSTUME! together to become Hackensack Meridian Does your pet wear a Health, creating a whole new state of Halloween costume? in and beyond. We want to see! Share a As a result, Meridian HealthViews is now photo on Instagram using Hackensack Meridian HealthViews! #HowlHackensackMeridian. Hackensack Meridian Health L to R: Robert C. Garrett and John K. Lloyd translates into 13 , including Moving forward, you’ll see more two academic medical centers, two patient stories from Hackensack children’s hospitals, and nine community University Medical Center, which is RANKED AMONG THE BEST...AGAIN! hospitals. We believe that the effective ranked by U.S. News & World Report as Our hospitals have once again earned high and compassionate care you have come the number one in New recognition in U.S. News & World Report’s to expect from our hospitals will only Jersey, as well as other features that Best Regional Hospitals 2016–17 annual strengthen, as you now have access to show the depth and breadth of rankings. In New Jersey, Hackensack the unmatched depth of expert care our new health network. Enjoy this University Medical Center is ranked #1, and specialists throughout Hackensack issue of HealthViews and welcome to University Medical Center is Meridian Health. Hackensack Meridian Health! ranked #4, and Ocean Medical Center is Our physical location spans New Jersey ranked #8. For full details, visit Sincerely, from the top of the state down to HackensackMeridianHealth.org/Awards. Atlantic County, but our reach continues to surrounding states and around the county for some of our highly specialized services. One of our key priorities is John K. Lloyd, FACHE, Co-CEO, infusing humanity into the practice of Hackensack Meridian Health Hackensack Meridian Health is medicine. For all the people who come to excited to provide My Health eNews, where you can select our network to receive care, the launch of your own topics of interest, Hackensack Meridian Health means including cancer prevention. Visit providing choices and supporting people Robert C. Garrett, FACHE, Co-CEO, HackensackMeridianHealth.org/ all along the journey of life. Hackensack Meridian Health enewsletter today to subscribe!

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They discuss how Hackensack Meridian Health is the most integrated and innovative health network in the TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE! state. Go to HackensackMeridianHealth.org and click the YouTube icon. Get a head start on supporting Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Take our quiz to see how much you know about breast cancer at Facebook.com/ HackensackMeridianHealth on Sept. 7. This free bimonthly magazine is prepared by the Marketing and Communications Team of Hackensack Meridian Health. Gordon N. Litwin, Esq., Co-Chairman Please call 732-751-7530 with any Joseph Simunovich, Co-Chairman questions or comments. Inquiries or ideas The Hackensack can be addressed to HealthViews@ Enjoying Life After The Right Treatment 6 Tips for Life as a Lung Cancer p15 at the Right Time p22 Cancer Survivor p30 Robert C. Garrett, FACHE, Co-CEO Meridian HealthViews HackensackMeridianHealth.org.

SEPTEMBER/ John K. Lloyd, FACHE, Co-CEO OCTOBER 2016 app is available for free Steven G. Littleson, FACHE, President, Hospital download from the A Surgical Services Division and Chief Operating Officer Solution © 2016 Hackensack Meridian Health Riverview Medical Center A Middletown father and App Store on iTunes. musician receives expert Chrisie Scott, Senior Vice President and Chief surgical care. page 10 Once you’re in the Marketing Officer The material provided in this magazine is intended to be used as general information store, simply search Elliot Frank, M.D., Medical Advisor only and should not replace the advice of MORE ONLINE AT HACKENSACKMERIDIANHEALTH.ORG “HealthViews” to Michael McCauley, Gabriella Heizler, your physician. Always consult your download the app. Jacki Kronstedt, HealthViews Production Team physician for individual care.

2 Hackensack Meridian HealthViews SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2016 Contents

4 Health Snapshots Get the latest health news on a wide range of topics — everything from hip replacement to health screenings to nutrition. Success Stories Positive Attitude During Treatment..... 6 Saving a Patient’s Arm...... 7 Back to Everyday Life...... 8 Sleeping Soundly Again...... 9 A Surgical Solution...... 10 Beating the Odds...... 12 A Lucky Break...... 13 A Natural Solution...... 14 24 Events Calendar Life After Lung Cancer...... 15 Community health programs, fun events, and support groups around Losing Weight Together...... 16 the region for adults and children. 15 Back in the Swing of Things...... 18 Life After Cancer Inspiring Care...... 19 Health and Wellness Joseph Kowalski (pictured above) is back to enjoying No Longer Afraid...... 20 Surrounding You with Care...... 23 life after receiving advanced Getting Steady Again...... 21 A Wellness Destination...... 29 treatment for lung cancer. Right Treatment at the Right Time..... 22 6 Life Tips for Cancer Survivors...... 30

You already rock the world of those around you, now it’s time to rock YOUR life, and rock YOUR health at our next Lyrics for Life event: Women ROCK Saturday, October 15, 2016 2:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Asbury Park Convention Hall Wish you could have it all and still look graceful doing it? Hear from our “womenologists” on a host of health and lifestyle topics from fitness tips to staying organized. Enjoy shopping from local vendors, snacks, giveaways, live music and more! We’ll also be inducting some lucky women into our Women Who Rock Hall of Fame. This event is free, so register today by calling 1-800-DOCTORS®. For more information visit: MeridianHealth.com/TunedIntoYourHealth.

© Hackensack Meridian Health

MH-MTYH-WomenROCK-8.375x3-HV-16.indd 1 HackensackMeridianHealth.org 1-800-560-99907/8/16 11:06 AM 3 Healthsnapshots

CHECK OUT THIS RESEARCH ON MAMMOGRAMS Pat yourself on the back if you’ve crossed your regular mammogram off your to-do list. According to a study in the journal Cancer, women are being diagnosed with smaller breast tumors than in the past. Experts credit mammograms with finding these cancers earlier, when they are most treatable. Another study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute reported that women whose breast cancer is found with a mammogram often live longer than women whose cancer is found another way. Like any test, mammograms have some limitations. “For example, they will not reveal every cancer,” explains Brandon Mirochnik, M.D., of Riverview Medical Center. “And some breast cancers detected by mammograms may still be hard to treat. But the potential benefits of regular mammograms can mean lives saved — maybe even yours.”

CELEBRATE BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH The programs in our Every Woman Counts Educational Series will prepare you to make informed choices about prevention, breast health, and current treatment options. Come for refreshments, educational materials, and prizes! Learn more on page 24.

Could Asthma Affect Your SIGN UP! Plans for a Family? We offer seminars for parents, as well as tours, About 8 percent of women in their childbearing classes for siblings, and years have asthma. And now, early findings suggest more! Learn about all our the disease may make it harder to have children. informative classes at Among women undergoing fertility treatment, MeridianMomtourage.com. 40 percent of those with asthma eventually became pregnant. That’s compared with 60 percent of women who didn’t have asthma. Women with asthma also took longer to conceive. On average, they got pregnant after 56 months of trying vs. 32 months for women without asthma. “Asthma may affect female hormones, and exposure to low-grade inflammation from the disease may also hamper fertility,” says Yanill Hernandez, M.D., of Ocean Medical Center. “But most women with asthma can have a healthy pregnancy, provided they control their disease.”

4 Hackensack Meridian HealthViews SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2016 MORE THAN 83 MILLION AMERICANS SHORT ON SLEEP

Worried you’ll sleep your life away? A new study finds that about one-third of Americans have the opposite problem, snoozing less than the recommended seven hours per night. The resulting drowsiness can contribute to car collisions, other accidents, and lost productivity. “Over time, lack of sleep alters your hormones and metabolism, increasing your risk for diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, and heart disease,” says Jeffrey Miskoff, D.O., a pulmonologist at Jersey Shore University Medical Center. To find out where you and the sandman stand, try keeping a 10-day sleep journal. Note when you fall asleep and wake up. Include any naps. Discuss your habits with your doctor.

TO NAP OR NOT TO NAP? Is daytime napping a good solution for recovering lost slumber? To fi nd out, read our blog post on this topic at MeridianWellRested.com.

BARIATRIC SURGERY MAY REDUCE RISK FOR AN EARLY DEATH

Weight-loss surgery shrinks your stomach and your waistline. But it could extend something else — your life. At least that seems to be the case in middle age, new research finds. Researchers tracked about 8,000 people. All of them had gastric bypass surgery between 1984 and 2002. Those who had surgery at age 35 or older had about a 50 percent lower risk of dying during the study period. “Bariatric surgery can reduce deaths from cancer and heart disease in people at high risk, including older adults,” says Jonathan Reich, M.D., of Southern Ocean Medical Center. “If you’re heavy, talk with your doctor about your options.”

GET THE FACTS ON WEIGHT-LOSS SURGERY The Bariatric Center of Excellence at Southern Ocean Medical Center will host this program on the benefi ts of weight-loss surgery. See page 27 for dates and times.

HackensackMeridianHealth.org 1-800-560-9990 5 MeridianHealth.com 1-800-560-9990 5 Proactive Treatment, Positive Attitude Jersey Shore University Medical Center Woman inspires her family through treatment for breast cancer.

No woman wants to hear that she has breast cancer. which was tailored to her specific type of cancer. But for 58-year-old Dawn Behrman, the diagnosis She chose to have a hysterectomy and have her turned out to be a blessing. Dawn’s breast cancer ovaries removed with Karim ElSahwi, M.D., a potentially saved the lives of many women she loved, gynecologic oncologist at Jersey Shore, an option including her own daughter. presented to her by Dr. Johnson Miller to prevent Following her diagnosis, Dawn’s primary care Denise Johnson ovarian cancer. And two months later, Dawn had provider, Joann Sabados-Carolina, APRN, referred Miller, M.D. a double mastectomy with Dr. Johnson Miller. Board certified in her to Denise Johnson Miller, M.D., medical General Surgery “I always kept a positive attitude and had a smile director of Breast Surgery at Meridian and part of Neptune on my face. I thought, ‘I got this!’” recalls Dawn. Meridian Cancer Care. Eager to rid herself of 1-800-560-9990 “Cancer treatment is tough, but I’m tougher.” cancer, Dawn chose to have an immediate Immediately following her mastectomy, Dawn lumpectomy. However, when pathology reports came opted to have a DIEP flap breast reconstruction. back, her approach to treatment changed dramatically. The complicated surgery, performed by Jersey “We learned that Dawn had triple negative breast cancer — an aggressive Shore plastic surgeon Michael Rose, M.D., type of breast cancer that is often linked to genetic mutations that increase involves rebuilding the breasts with fat, tissue, a woman’s risk of developing breast cancer in either breast as well as an and blood vessels harvested from the abdomen. increased risk for ovarian and other solid tumors,” explains Dr. Johnson “I couldn’t be happier with my outcome and the Miller. “I suggested Dawn undergo genetic testing.” wonderful people who helped me. These doctors and nurses are the best,” Dawn says. Comprehensive Treatment Dawn was referred to Angela Fay, M.S., a cancer genetic coordinator for Paying It Forward Meridian Health. Genetic tests showed that Dawn carried the BRCA2 gene, Today, Dawn is completely healed and happy to which profoundly increases the lifetime risk for breast and ovarian cancer. be healthy again. She’s also used her diagnosis for Under the care of Jersey Shore University Medical Center oncologist good. After testing positive for the BRCA2 gene, Michael Levitt, M.D., Dawn underwent five months of chemotherapy, she encouraged her family to be tested as well. Her daughter, sister, and a niece all tested positive for the gene. Since then, all have been seen in Dr. Johnson Miller’s high-risk clinic and have had consultations with Dr. ElSahwi. Her daughter and niece have opted to have prophylactic double mastectomies with immediate reconstruction. Because of their age, they plan to have their ovaries removed closer to menopause. “I was the first person in our family known to Dawn Behrman, 58, lives actually have breast cancer. And I feel so blessed it near Seven Presidents Park in Long Branch. She enjoys was me,” says Dawn. “It’s amazing that they will never walking the boardwalk and have to hear the words ‘You have breast cancer.’” being on the beach with her six grandchildren.

Take 5 Minutes to Know Your Risk Our FREE risk assessment is a simple way to see if you could be at risk for breast cancer. Visit MeridianHealth.com/BreastAware today.

6 Hackensack Meridian HealthViews SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2016 Saving a Patient’s Arm HackensackUMC A woman faced with amputation receives a dramatically more desirable treatment plan.

James Wittig, M.D. Eileen Prince and her family were in a state of utter despair after visiting Dr. Pecora always monitors Board certified in two premier New York City institutions where specialists had said her arm the field for developments Hackensack needed to be amputated. These specialists said that a tumor growing through that might improve his 1-800-560-9990 the web of large nerves controlling Eileen’s left shoulder, arm, and hand patients’ outcomes. This time would not respond to chemotherapy and couldn’t be removed. They offered he added a therapy, taken Eileen a radical approach — a total amputation of her shoulder, arm, and a from kidney cancer treatment, piece of her chest wall. They weren’t even sure they could remove the tumor which impeded the tumor’s with an amputation. Things seemed beyond hopeless. ability to create the new In stark contrast to Eileen’s New York experiences, she was met with blood vessels that fueled its positivity and compassion at the John Theurer Cancer Center (JTCC), where growth. “Coming up with the she connected with orthopedic surgeon James Wittig, M.D., and Andrew right mix of chemotherapy Andrew Pecora, M.D.*, an oncologist, who took a very different approach. agents and the right schedule Pecora, M.D. Upon examination, Dr. Wittig was extremely confident that he could save is a bit like doing calculus,” Board certified in Medicine, Surgery, Eileen’s arm and remove the tumor. Dr. Pecora says. “You have to and integrate the wishes of the Hackensack A New Treatment Plan patient, the biology of the 1-800-560-9990 Dr. Wittig and Dr. Pecora routinely work together to treat patients with very disease, and the available serious, complex cancers. They knew they could save Eileen’s life and limb therapeutics and make a decision.” based on numerous previous experiences. When the doctors reviewed Eileen’s records, they realized her tumor had Regimen Yields Positive Results been mischaracterized. She had a fast-growing tumor — the result of radiation Dr. Pecora’s regimen shrank Eileen’s tumor by used to treat Hodgkin’s lymphoma when she was 17 — that would respond 80 percent in just six weeks. In the meantime, well to chemotherapy. The more they could kill the tumor with preoperative Dr. Wittig had ordered a new, clearer MRI. chemotherapy, the greater the chance of saving her arm. “When we looked at the new image, we could now see that the tumor died and affected only a portion of the brachial plexus,” Dr. Wittig says. Eileen Prince appreciates “This made my job of removing the tumor and that her doctors were as saving Eileen’s arm easier.” invested in her emotional well-being as they were Together, Dr. Wittig and Dr. Pecora, supported in finding a cure for by a talented multi-disciplinary team of cancer care her condition. experts at JTCC, not only removed the tumor but also saved Eileen’s arm, preserving function in her hand and most of her forearm. “They focused on every avenue that could potentially yield a positive result, and every decision they made from that point forward reinforced their commitment to my physical and emotional well-being,” says Eileen. “In short, they were as invested in my quality of life as they were in identifying a cure.”

*Dr. Pecora has been appointed president of the Physician Services Division and Chief Innovation Officer for Hackensack Meridian Health.

At the Top of the List Hackensack University Medical Center is ranked by U.S. News & World Report as the number one hospital in New Jersey. Read more at HackensackMeridianHealth.org/Awards.

HackensackMeridianHealth.org 1-800-560-9990 7 Back to Everyday Life Southern Ocean Medical Center A comprehensive care plan helps Forked River woman recover from lung cancer.

In December 2015, Sally Pentson of Forked River blood without the stress of repeated needle sticks Jatin Desani, M.D. noticed swelling in her salivary gland. She went to for the patient. Sally started chemotherapy and Board certified in the doctor for antibiotics, but the swelling did not radiation in February 2016. “Everything was Hematology, Medical Oncology, and go away. Sally learned that her dentist could help happening so fast, I hardly had time to think about Internal Medicine diagnose the problem. Her dentist referred her to an what was really going on,” Sally says. Manahawkin oral surgeon who put her on stronger antibiotics, “Like Sally, most patients are anxious about 1-800-560-9990 but after 10 days, the swelling wasn’t completely treatment,” says Dr. Desani. “But appropriate gone. The oral surgeon sent Sally to get an MRI of counseling, reassurance, and a step-by-step her head and neck to further investigate what was explanation of their care plan helps ease their causing the problem. The MRI revealed a tumor in anxiety.” Dr. Desani and radiation oncologist Sally’s upper lung — she had small cell lung cancer. Joseph Lattanzi, M.D., were each a key part in Sally made an appointment with Jeffrey Lipper, Sally’s comprehensive care plan. “A comprehensive M.D., a pulmonologist at Southern Ocean Medical care plan is something that is often advertised but Center. After speaking with Dr. Lipper, Sally knew rarely performed at larger institutions,” says Joseph she would need an oncologist, so she scheduled Dr. Lattanzi. “It’s not just a buzzword here at P. Lattanzi, M.D. an appointment with Jatin Desani, M.D., a Southern Ocean. Once a week, the team, including Board certified in Radiation Oncology medical oncologist at Southern Ocean and part of Dr. Desani and myself, discusses the patient’s care Manahawkin Meridian Cancer Care. and reviews all the data, the images, and the labs to 1-800-560-9990 coordinate a care plan with the patient.” A Surprising Diagnosis Sally was shocked, as she had no symptoms that Positive Experiences would typically indicate lung cancer, such as a Sally is essentially back to her normal life after having a great initial persistent cough, chest pain, hoarseness, weight response to the chemotherapy and radiation. “When I was first diagnosed loss, shortness of breath, or wheezing. “Not having with cancer, I felt somewhat ashamed. I felt as though people would treat symptoms is common for people with early stages me as if I was diseased and they were going to catch it,” says Sally. of lung cancer,” says Dr. Desani. “Luckily, Sally had “However, my experience could not have been more opposite.” Sally feels limited stage cancer, meaning the cancer was only incredibly lucky that she was able to receive her care at Southern Ocean. in one lung and had not spread.” “The staff in the Radiation Oncology Department made me feel so Within the next few weeks, Sally had computed comfortable. They respected me. They treat you like you’re a somebody. tomography (CT) and PET scans and a vascular port It was something I had never experienced before.” implanted under her skin. A port creates easy access for doctors and nurses to deliver medication or draw By Kylie Stanger

Expanding Cancer Care Learn how we’re improving cancer care for all of our communities with six oncology-focused expansion projects. Go to MeridianHealth.com/BuildingHope.

Sally Pentson, 72, of Forked River, enjoys gardening and traveling to Atlantic City.

8 Hackensack Meridian HealthViews SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2016 Sidney Rabinowitz, 82, enjoys listening to music and jazz from an American pop songbook.

Sleeping Soundly Again Habib Bayshore Community Hospital U. Khan, M.D. After suffering a stroke, Holmdel 1-800-560-9990 Aberdeen patient receives the surgery that was safest for him.

When Sidney Rabinowitz’s wife, Audrey, heard him Concerns About Surgery moving around in the middle of the night, she knew “I am in the very early stages of Alzheimer’s disease,” says Sidney. something was wrong. Her husband had always been “My neurologist was concerned that putting me under anesthesia a sound sleeper. Sidney, 82, told her that he had could cause the disease to more rapidly progress.” fallen and that his hand felt strange. Fearing that he Dr. Khan reassured Sidney that the surgery would be performed while had injured it in the fall, Audrey drove Sidney from he was awake, which is not atypical for . “I perform many their home in Aberdeen to Bayshore Community surgeries while the patient is awake by using local anesthesia and nerve Hospital in Holmdel, where the Emergency blocks,” Dr. Khan elaborates. “In Sidney’s case, the decision was made not Department team suspected there was more to only due to the Alzheimer’s disease but also because it is the safest way to the story. The tests confirmed their suspicions — do this kind of procedure.” Sidney had experienced a mild stroke. The surgery was a success, eliminating the blockage and significantly reducing Sidney’s risk for future strokes. He was able to leave the hospital An Alarming Blockage the next day with only minor discomfort. Sidney’s care was turned over to Srinivas Pavuluri, “I’m extremely happy with the results of the surgery and my care M.D., a neurologist at Bayshore, who discovered that throughout the process,” says Sidney. “Dr. Khan was so pleasant and patient one of Sidney’s carotid arteries was blocked and that in explaining the situation and surgery, and could not have been kinder.” he needed surgery. The neurologist recommended Now that his blockage is removed, Sidney enjoys going out to dinner Habib Khan, M.D., a vascular surgeon at Bayshore with his wife and seeing his son and grandchildren, and has a renewed and part of Meridian CardioVascular Network, interest in rejoining organizations of which he had previously been a part. who met with Sidney and discovered that not only Once again, Sidney and Audrey are sleeping soundly through the night. was his carotid artery blocked, it was three-quarters of the way blocked. “Sidney’s stroke was relatively minor, but it was the warning bell for a potential situation that would Are You At Risk? be more serious,” says Dr. Khan. “If left untreated, he would be at risk for a catastrophic stroke. I wanted Attend AngioScreen® this fall to learn your risk for heart to get him into surgery to eliminate the blockage as attack and stroke. For screening dates and our special fall soon as possible, but Sidney has a medical condition price, see page 25. that needed to be taken into consideration.”

HackensackMeridianHealth.org 1-800-560-9990 9 A Surgical Solution Riverview Medical Center A Middletown father and musician is back to playing the bass guitar after receiving expert surgical care.

Earlier this year, Tony Flora, 50, had an upset the tumor, along with 18 inches of Tony’s large stomach. When the pain became too much for intestine. He also removed numerous nearby him to bear, he visited his local urgent care clinic. lymph nodes. Fortunately, he found that none “I nearly jumped out of my skin when the doctor of the carcinoid cells had spread. “Generally, poked a particular spot on my abdomen,” the carcinoid tumors are slow growing, but it’s still Middletown resident says. “He was concerned it important to remove affected areas to prevent could be appendicitis, so he sent me to the complications and keep the cells from spreading Joseph emergency room.” elsewhere in the body,” Dr. Cauda says. Cauda, M.D. Board certified in Tony arrived at Riverview Medical Center’s General Surgery where doctors confirmed Back to Bass-ics Shrewsbury his appendix needed to be removed. That same Following the surgery, Tony recovered at 1-800-560-9990 day, Joseph Cauda, M.D., a surgeon at Riverview, Riverview for five days. “At first, I was strictly on performed the laparoscopic appendectomy. fluids to allow my intestines to heal,” says Tony. By the time he During the surgery, Dr. Cauda noticed something went home, he was able to eat some wet food and then a bland unusual on Tony’s large intestine, where the low-fiber diet. Eventually, he added more fruit and complex appendix attaches. As a result, he resected a wider carbohydrates to his meals. “Each week that went by, I regained area of tissue. more strength,” he says. A few days later, Tony visited Dr. Cauda’s office Tony visited Dr. Cauda several times after his surgery to check for a follow-up appointment. Dr. Cauda shared on his progress. “Dr. Cauda and his office staff are outstanding,” the biopsy result: Tony had a carcinoid tumor in he says. “They get back to me quickly whenever I have any his large intestine. “A carcinoid tumor affects cells questions. Dr. Cauda is very direct; he listens, and he always told that produce hormones,” Dr. Cauda says. “Unlike me what I needed to do to help things along, so I did my best to a typical tumor that forms on a specific organ, follow his instructions.” carcinoid tumors can be scattered throughout Following his surgery, Tony couldn’t lift any heavy objects. the body and also spread to distant sites.” Fortunately, three weeks after his surgery, Dr. Cauda said that The pathology results showed that Tony had a Tony could lift objects that weighed up to 10 pounds. For Tony, 2.4-cm-wide carcinoid tumor located at the base that meant being able to play the bass guitar, which he’s done for of his appendix that also affected the cecum, a the past 40 years. Today, he’s fully recovered. “I was very concerned pouchlike area located at the beginning of the the surgery was going to prevent me from doing the things I love large intestine. “The carcinoid tumor is likely to do in my life,” Tony says. “Spending time with my family is at what caused his appendicitis,” Dr. Cauda says. the top of that chart, and playing music is a close second.”

A Second Surgery Tony was shocked when he received the diagnosis. “When you hear tumor, you think of cancer right Simply the Best away,” he says. Throughout the next week, Tony underwent a series of tests at Riverview to find Our experienced and compassionate surgical out whether the tumor had spread. By the end of teams include board-certified, fellowship-trained that week, he received the good news that it did surgeons, registered nurses, and anesthesiologists. not appear to have spread. Learn more about our capabilities in robotic surgery at Just over a month after the appendectomy, MeridianHealth.com/Surgery. Dr. Cauda performed a three-hour surgery to remove

10 Hackensack Meridian HealthViews SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2016 Tony Flora, 50, plays the bass guitar in two different bands: Colossal Street Jam and Psycho Misfits.

HackensackMeridianHealth.org 1-800-560-9990 11 Michael Favor, 38, and Rosa Favor, 37, with daughters Gia, 15 months, and Sofia, 6, at their home in Wall.

Beating the Odds Jersey Shore University Medical Center A Wall woman fights for her family.

Today, Rosa and Michael Favor have two daughters, thyroid. He also removed 31 lymph nodes and Sofia, 6, and Gia, 15 months. But their journey to closed the incision with surgical glue. Rosa went home

grow their family hasn’t been easy. In 2011, Rosa that same day. A few months later, she underwent Alexander gave birth to a baby boy who passed away three radioactive iodine therapy to kill any microscopic Shifrin, M.D. days later. Doctors discovered he had a rare genetic cancer cells that may have been left behind. Screening Board certified in General Surgery condition, and tests showed that Rosa and Michael tests afterward showed that the treatment was successful Neptune unknowingly carried the genetic mutation, too. and she had no signs of cancer. 1-800-560-9990 In 2012, they decided to go through in vitro fertilization (IVF) so that embryos could be screened New Beginnings to make sure they didn’t have the mutation. That wasn’t the only happy news they received. In Unfortunately, Rosa didn’t become pregnant through September 2014, Rosa and Michael found out they had IVF. She visited Alexander Shifrin, M.D., surgical conceived naturally. When Rosa was 16 weeks along, director of the Center for Thyroid, Parathyroid, and genetic testing confirmed that their baby didn’t carry Adrenal Diseases at Jersey Shore University Medical the genetic mutation. Their healthy baby girl, Gia, Center and part of Meridian Cancer Care, to find was born in May 2015. Cristina out whether a thyroid issue might explain why she Since her surgery, Rosa takes thyroid hormone Ciorlian, M.D. Board certified in didn’t get pregnant with IVF. replacement medication and follows up with Endocrinology Cristina Ciorlian, M.D., FACE, an endocrinologist Jackson 1-800-560-9990 Searching for Answers at Jersey Shore, to make sure her hormone levels Dr. Shifrin performed an ultrasound of Rosa’s stay within a healthy range. “After having a complex thyroid and found a thyroid nodule. He biopsied it treatment for thyroid cancer, we monitored and adjusted Rosa’s thyroid and discovered something Rosa and Michael never hormone during her pregnancy,” says Dr. Ciorlian. “It has been a wonderful expected: Rosa had thyroid cancer. “We were joy to see Gia grow up healthy.” Rosa also visits Dr. Shifrin every few months planning to do another IVF cycle, so we had to for an ultrasound to make sure her cancer stays away. decide right away whether or not to continue,” “Dr. Shifrin has been amazing from the minute we stepped into his office,” she says. Dr. Shifrin was sensitive to their unique Rosa says. “He was very sensitive to our situation. He knew how badly I wanted situation and presented Rosa’s case to the tumor another child. He’s always given great advice, and we’ve trusted him every step board, a multi-disciplinary team of providers who of the way.” discuss patients’ cases to develop the best treatment plan. “We determined that thyroid surgery had to be done first,” Dr. Shifrin says. “Rosa had extensive Another Success Story disease that metastasized to her lymph nodes, and the most important thing was to treat her cancer Rosa is just one of the many patients who has benefited before proceeding with fertility treatments.” from Dr. Shifrin’s care. Find more inspirational stories at In April 2013, Dr. Shifrin performed a MeridianHealth.com/SurvivorStories. minimally invasive procedure to remove Rosa’s

12 Hackensack Meridian HealthViews SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2016 A Lucky Break Ocean Medical Center Grandparents grateful for finding emergency care close to the beach for their grandson.

Over the Memorial Day weekend, Bill and Maryjane Reilly When the family arrived at Ocean, the had one of their eight grandchildren, Alex, down at the staff and Jason Nitche, M.D., an orthopedic Jersey Shore for a fun weekend in the sun to celebrate his surgeon at Ocean, were ready. The nurse, fifth birthday. While setting the table for dinner, Alex fell off Karl Rex, kept Alex calm by explaining every a high stool. Considered to be their “calmest” grandchild, step while preparing him for the anesthesia. Alex let out a scream and Bill and Maryjane went over to “It’s important to have breaks like Alex’s make sure he was OK. When they picked him up, they Jason Nitche, M.D. reset by an orthopedic surgeon,” says noticed that Alex’s forearm was all bent. Board certified in Dr. Nitche. “The bones need to be put back Orthopedic Surgery “When I realized he couldn’t move his fingers and after he Brick into proper position so that the ends of the told me it hurt really badly, I knew it was bad. This is a kid 1-800-560-9990 bones will heal together as new bone grows who never complains and very rarely gets upset,” recalls Bill. back between the broken edges.” After the Bill and Maryjane took Alex to Ocean Care Center in Point Pleasant. “In the bones were reset, Alex was put in a splint to summer down at the beach, it is absolute chaos during holiday weekends. We are so keep his arm immobile until the swelling lucky to have something like Ocean Care Center right up the road,” says Maryjane. went down and he could be casted. Ocean Care Center in Point Pleasant is a satellite Emergency Department and “No grandparent wants something like this provides patients with immediate hospital-level emergency care without needing to to happen on their watch,” says Maryjane. go to a traditional hospital. As soon as the staff saw Alex’s arm, they knew it needed “But when we got him over to Ocean Care attention right away. Alex was sent to get an X-ray, which showed that both bones in Center, from the minute we got him in the his arm were broken and the bones needed to be reset. After consulting with the door until the whole thing was over, we team at Ocean Care Center, Bill and Maryjane agreed to have Alex transferred to were treated with such compassion and Ocean Medical Center, where Alex would be able to see an orthopedic surgeon to professionalism. Everyone just made a reset the broken bones. The Emergency Department physician, Jose Dugenio, M.D., horrible experience so much easier.” and the nurses were wonderfully attentive to Alex while the family waited on the X-ray and treatment decision. By Kylie Stanger

Bill and Maryjane Reilly love living with Emergency Care, 24/7 the beach in their backyard. All their grandchildren, including 5-year-old Alex For a list of minor (pictured at right), love to visit. emergencies Ocean Care Center is equipped to treat, visit OceanCareCenter.com.

HackensackMeridianHealth.org 1-800-560-9990 13 A Natural Solution Raritan Bay Medical Center Noninvasive physical therapy offers a recovering stroke patient relief.

“Before the stroke, I didn’t see it as a people, these problems can either be cured or better Rupa Patel, M.D. Board certified in problem,” recalls 63-year-old Piscataway managed by noninvasive treatments such as pelvic floor Female Pelvic resident Gail Gambrell. “I just knew I had to muscle training exercises. These exercises, also known as Medicine and Reconstructive go to the bathroom often. But then, after the Kegels, are a first-line therapy that can and does result in Surgery stroke, it got worse. I realized I needed help.” noticeable relief for many patients.” Old Bridge Fortunately, Gail was referred to Rupa “Pelvic floor muscle exercises strengthen the muscles 1-800-560-9990 Patel, M.D., a board-certified female that help control urination,” says Criselda Gabriel, P.T., urologist and medical director of Raritan Bay senior physical therapist at Raritan Bay Medical Medical Center’s Center for Continence and Center–Perth Amboy. “We instruct patients in biofeedback techniques to help Pelvic Rehabilitation, who specializes in the identify and contract the right muscles.” care of women’s urologic conditions. Gail says, “I was eager to participate in the program. I’m not a big pill taker. I wanted to do this because I believe that the body can restore itself. I am very A Common Issue grateful to Dr. Patel and Criselda for listening to me and presenting me with this “Bladder control problems are common,” natural option.” says Dr. Patel. A common myth about “I worked with Gail once a week for two months, plus she performed exercises incontinence is that it affects only older at home every day,” says Criselda. “Today, Gail has regained significant control of people or women. Men, women, and children her bladder functions.” of all ages and races can experience bladder Today, Gail continues her exercises at home and enjoys tai chi classes at a control problems, but it is more common in nearby senior center and volunteering at the local hospital. “Women should older adults and women. be aware that there is a natural approach to a problem like this,” says Gail. “I Urge incontinence, when the bladder wouldn’t let continence problems stop me, and neither should other women.” muscle involuntarily contracts and pushes urine out of the bladder, can be caused by By Christine Burke irritation of the bladder, muscle weakness, emotional stress, dietary stimulants, and several neurologic conditions, such as stroke or Parkinson’s disease, according to Dr. Patel. “As Gail experienced, urge incontinence occurs when you have a sudden and intense Gail Gambrell, urge to urinate — even if you emptied your 63, loves exercising bladder a short while ago,” says Dr. Patel. and is a formally In women, adds Dr. Patel, “stress trained ballet dancer. incontinence is also caused by conditions that stretch the pelvic floor, such as childbirth and weight gain. A chronic cough from smoking can make stress incontinence worse.” Women may experience stress incontinence when they laugh, sneeze, cough, or otherwise exert pressure on the pelvic floor. Although continence problems can have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life, many people do not seek help. Embarrassment often prevents people from talking about their bladder problems. Some people restrict going out and have little social contact outside their home. Convenient and Close to Home

A Noninvasive Treatment The Center for Continence and Pelvic Rehabilitation offers “There is no need to be afraid or embarrassed convenient day and evening hours at three locations. to seek treatment,” says Dr. Patel. “Urinary To schedule an appointment, call 732-324-5042 (Perth Amboy), continence responds to escalating forms of 732-362-3860 (Woodbridge), or 732-360-4013 (Old Bridge). treatment. The good news is that, for most

14 Hackensack Meridian HealthViews SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2016 Joseph Kowalski loves the backyard of his Old Bridge home, where he and his wife have a large koi pond.

Take 5 Minutes to Know Your Risk Our new online risk assessment is a simple way to help you determine your risk level for lung cancer. Visit MeridianHealth.com/LungAware to find out your risk today.

Ghulam Life After Lung Cancer Abbas, M.D. Board certified in Bayshore Community Hospital Compassionate care, advanced treatment General Surgery and Thoracic Surgery have Old Bridge man back to enjoying life. Red Bank 1-800-560-9990

In preparation for knee surgery, Joseph Kowalski Cutting-Edge Surgical Approach went to Riverview Medical Center in June 2015 Dr. Abbas performed a VATS lobectomy at Bayshore Community Hospital to for routine preoperative imaging tests. However, remove the cancerous portion of Joseph’s lung. The approach involves using the results of his chest X-ray were not what the an endoscope and special tools to perform the surgery through three tiny 72-year-old anticipated. Images showed that chest incisions. The VATS approach is much less invasive than open surgery, Joseph had a large mass on his left lung. which requires the surgeon to make large incisions and spread the ribs to He was quickly referred to pulmonologist access the lungs. Adrian Pristas, M.D., and diagnostic radiologist “Dr. Abbas explained exactly what he was going to do and what I could expect. Peter Doss, M.D. After extensive imaging and I can’t say enough about how comfortable and reassured I felt,” says Joseph. “He is evaluation, Joseph learned he had lung cancer. the cream of the crop. He took care of me like I was one of his own family.” “I was extremely upset,” recalls Joseph. Joseph was relieved to have the cancer removed. And he says he felt no pain “I thought it was a death sentence.” following surgery. After just one night at Bayshore, Joseph went home. Dr. Pristas referred Joseph to Ghulam Abbas, M.D., director of Minimally Invasive Thoracic Compassionate Treatment Surgery for Meridian Health and part of Meridian Following surgery, Joseph underwent chemotherapy once a week with Cancer Care. Because Joseph’s tumor was still hematologist/oncologist Aileen Chen, M.D., at Bayshore. He also had radiation located within the lung, he was a candidate for a treatment five days a week for six weeks with radiation oncologist Adnan VATS lobectomy — a minimally invasive surgical Danish, M.D., at Riverview. Both physicians are part of Meridian Cancer Care. approach to remove part of the lung. “The people who cared for me were fantastic. It sounds crazy, but it was “Lung cancer is the number one cause of downright pleasant going to treatment. I felt like I was visiting relatives,” cancer-related death. And two of every three says Joseph. “How can it be pleasant having chemotherapy or radiation?” lung cancers are found in advanced stages. As a Today, Joseph is back to work and enjoying time with his family. He has result, surgery is not appropriate for most lung scans every three months to check for cancer and has maintained a clean bill cancer patients,” explains Dr. Abbas. “For those of health. who are candidates, this advanced procedure can “I learned cancer care doesn’t have to be dreadful. From the beginning to the be lifesaving.” end, all my nurses, doctors, and technicians made me feel wonderful,” he says.

HackensackMeridianHealth.org 1-800-560-9990 15 Losing Weight Together Ocean Medical Center Bariatric surgery helps Brick couple live healthier lives.

Like millions of Americans, Sleeve gastrectomy, the most popular procedure in weight-loss surgery Brick residents Bill and performed today, involves removing a large portion of the stomach Erin Duckworth struggled laparoscopically, leaving a narrow banana-shaped stomach “sleeve.” with health problems due This allows patients to feel full quickly and remain full longer. to their weight. But diets “After surgery, stomach volume is reduced by about 85 percent,” explains to shed excess pounds Dr. Pasquariello. “By removing this part of the stomach, we also remove many never seemed to work. James of the cells that produce ‘hunger’ hormones. Patients are naturally less hungry Frustrated, Bill searched Pasquariello, M.D. and feel full more quickly.” Board certified in Ocean Medical Center’s General Surgery In addition to laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy, the Center for Weight-Loss Web site to learn about Brick Surgery at Ocean offers laparoscopic gastric bypass and gastric band surgery. bariatric surgery. He went 1-800-560-9990 Patients discuss all options with their surgeon. to a free seminar at the Center for Weight-Loss Surgery at Ocean the Support After Surgery very next day. Patients go home from surgery to a new way of eating. They begin on a liquid “I was diabetic and had high blood pressure, diet and move to soft foods for a number of weeks before graduating to regular and didn’t see things improving down the line,” foods. Patients are also taught to eat more slowly, get sufficient protein, and explains Bill. “I knew I needed to do something decrease portion sizes to accommodate their smaller stomachs. to save my life.” “Weight-loss surgery is just a tool to help patients lose weight and keep At the seminar, Bill talked with James it off,” says Dr. Pasquariello. “Patients have to be dedicated to a lifestyle Pasquariello, M.D., FACS, a bariatric surgeon change for it to work. What they do with that ‘tool’ is the key to long-term affiliated with Ocean, about the benefits and risks weight loss.” of weight-loss surgery. Bill knew it was the right Bill and Erin followed Dr. Pasquariello’s instructions and met him for choice for him, and his wife, Erin, decided to regular follow-up appointments to ensure that their health and weight loss join him. was on track. They also called the Center’s dietitian for guidance when they had questions in the months after surgery. Although many bariatric patients Thorough Preparation take advantage of the Center’s monthly support group, the couple leaned on The Center for Weight-Loss Surgery at Ocean each other. ensures that every bariatric surgery patient is “Following an eating plan is so much easier than before surgery,” states Bill. physically and mentally prepared for surgery. As “You really aren’t hungry. And because you see amazing results right away, it part of the presurgical evaluation, patients are motivates you to stick to the plan.” evaluated by a cardiologist, pulmonologist, Erin adds, “The staff at Dr. Pasquariello’s office was fantastic. They really gastroenterologist, and psychiatrist. They also care about each patient and went above and beyond to help us. They always meet regularly with a registered dietitian to learn reached out to see how we were doing.” how to adjust eating habits following surgery. Through the process, doctors identified that A New Life Bill had hemochromatosis — a condition in Today, more than a year after surgery, Bill is thrilled to have lost 85 pounds which the body stores excess iron. Without and shrunk his waist size from 42 to 32 inches. Erin has lost 110 pounds diagnosis and treatment, it could have been and continues to drop weight. But what is most impressive is their health dangerous. improvements. Both have been able to give up blood pressure medication. “Some people are hesitant about getting Bill no longer has diabetes, and Erin is cured of sleep apnea. weight-loss surgery because of what health “We have so much more energy and are more active now,” says Erin, who conditions they might find during pre-op took fitness classes at the Center for Weight-Loss Surgery and recently ran testing,” says Erin, who learned she had sleep her first 5K. “We feel so much healthier.” apnea. “By knowing your medical issues, you can take care of them when they are most treatable.” Need Help Losing Weight? Surgical Expertise In February 2015, Dr. Pasquariello performed a Meridian Weightless brings together information on sleeve gastrectomy on Bill at Ocean. Erin soon nutrition, exercise, healthy living, bariatric surgery, followed with her own surgery performed by and more. To find a free seminar on weight-loss surgery, Dr. Pasquariello at Ocean in July. visit MeridianWeightless.com.

16 Hackensack Meridian HealthViews SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2016 Bill and Erin Duckworth, both 51, at Brick Reservoir. Bill, who works there, is responsible for the grounds, and Erin enjoys walking there frequently.

HackensackMeridianHealth.org 1-800-560-9990 17 Back in the Swing of Things Jersey Shore University Medical Center Thanks to a state-of-the-art heart procedure, a Spring Lake Heights woman is back to her active lifestyle.

Judy Van Benschoten, 78, is always on the go. “I’m the type In preparation for TAVR, patients of person who gets up in the morning and doesn’t sit down undergo a comprehensive series of tests again until I go to bed,” she says. She does yard work, plays to examine their heart. Earlier this year, golf near her homes in Spring Lake Heights and Jupiter, Brett Sealove, M.D., performed one of Florida, and skis in Vermont and Colorado with her the procedures, called a transesophageal husband, Charlie. Last year, all of that changed when Judy echocardiogram (TEE), in which he became so sick that rolling over in bed felt impossible. Nelson guided an ultrasound probe through Judy has a heart condition called aortic stenosis. It occurs LaMarche, M.D. Judy’s esophagus to her heart to take Board certified when the valve that allows blood to flow from the heart into in Cardiology, pictures of it. Normally, TEE is an the aorta — the main artery that transports blood to the rest Interventional outpatient procedure. However, Cardiology, and of the body — narrows and the heart has to work much Internal Medicine Dr. Sealove found that Judy’s heart was harder to pump blood. Eatontown in so much distress that he admitted her 1-800-560-9990 to Jersey Shore in order to undergo A New Kind of Valve Surgery TAVR earlier than planned. Thirteen years ago, Judy had surgery to replace her aortic valve. However, Marcia Liu, M.D., her cardiologist at Teaming Up to Treat Patients Jersey Shore University Medical Center, determined that Dr. LaMarche, along with Brook the valve was failing and she’d need to have it replaced. DeJene, M.D., a cardiothoracic Fortunately, a state-of-the-art procedure called surgeon at Jersey Shore, performed transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is available the TAVR procedure. “We work as a

at Jersey Shore. “Previously, a patient would have to have Brook DeJene, M.D. team to give patients the best possible the old valve removed and replaced with a new valve, Board certified outcome,” Dr. DeJene says. “TAVR is which requires open heart surgery,” says Nelson LaMarche, in Cardiothoracic a very specialized procedure. The Surgery and M.D., an interventional cardiologist at Jersey Shore and part General Surgery doctors as well as the hospital staff go of Meridian CardioVascular Network. “With TAVR, we’re Neptune through extensive training in order to 1-800-560-9990 able to use a catheter and go through an artery to the heart perform this procedure on some of the and place a metal stent that’s held in place by the old valve.” sickest patients.” Judy’s procedure was successful. After recovering in the hospital, Judy went to Meridian Subacute Rehab at Judy Van Benschoten was so Wall, where she received physical and pleased with her care that occupational therapy to help regain her her husband, Charlie, is strength and endurance. She regularly having the same procedure follows up with Dr. Liu to make sure done by the same doctors. her heart is functioning well. “I feel like myself again,” she says.

Live with Heart Meridian CardioVascular Network provides everything to diagnose, treat, and mend virtually all heart and vascular conditions. Meet our doctors at MeridianCardioVascularNetwork.com.

18 Hackensack Meridian HealthViews SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2016 Inspiring Care Southern Ocean Medical Center A grateful Manahawkin patient gives back.

Greg Young was pedaling his stationary bike one angioplasty to open his clogged arteries and a stent morning this past January when he felt a tightness placed in his LAD to keep the artery propped open. in his chest. The 63-year-old Manahawkin man “Greg had a very tight blockage in the artery had experienced the discomfort before while supplying to the front part of the heart,” says exercising, but because it always went away when Dr. Yang. “In his situation, for patients who need to he rested, he didn’t pay it any mind. “I figured it have angioplasty or stents done, they are usually was indigestion,” he says. transferred to Jersey Shore University Medical Center, Rayson In the early evening, his chest tightness but we can ensure that they continue to receive great C. Yang, M.D. Board certified returned and continued for about an hour. Greg care through Meridian CardioVascular Network at in Cardiology, called his son’s father-in-law, a cardiologist, who Southern Ocean.” Interventional Cardiology, and urged him to go to the Emergency Department Dr. Okere performed the angioplasty at Nuclear Medicine and notify his doctor. Jersey Shore and implanted his stent. Everything Manahawkin Greg’s wife, Cindy, drove him to Southern went smoothly, and a few months later, Greg started 1-800-560-9990 Ocean Medical Center, where the Emergency cardiac rehabilitation at Southern Ocean. Cardiac Department staff quickly evaluated Greg. rehab is an intensive 12-week program of monitored exercise, education, Fortunately, Greg wasn’t having a heart attack, but and counseling support that helps patients improve their fitness and adopt he was admitted to the hospital for monitoring. healthier lifestyle habits. Because Greg had a prior history of abnormal electrocardiogram (EKG) scans, his cardiologist, An Unforgettable Experience Rayson Yang, M.D., part of Meridian The excellent care Greg received from his entire team made a lasting CardioVascular Network, recommended that impression. Six months ago, Greg, a retired United Methodist minister, Greg undergo cardiac catheterization to see how became a volunteer chaplain at Southern Ocean. He volunteers there well his heart was working. three days a month and is on call when patients urgently need to speak with a chaplain. Diagnosing the Problem It’s the perfect way to use some of the energy he’s regained since receiving Dr. Yang’s colleague, cardiologist Arthur Okere, his stent and completing rehab, Greg says. When he’s not volunteering at M.D., performed the procedure at Southern the hospital, Greg likes to golf, take out his fishing boat, cycle, and walk Ocean. Dr. Okere found a significant blockage in with Cindy. Dr. Yang ordered some follow-up cardiac tests to confirm that Greg’s left anterior descending artery (LAD), which his health is on track and is pleased with Greg’s progress. supplies blood to the front of the left side of the “I’m just enjoying my life a lot more,” Greg says. “I’ve gotten my strength heart, and a blockage in a branch artery coming and stamina back. Receiving my heart care at Meridian Health was the best off the LAD. Dr. Okere said Greg needed balloon thing I could have done.”

Heart-Healthy Cooking Attend our Cooking with Heart event on October 13 for a heart-healthy food tasting and more. Find details on page 25.

Greg Young, 63, loves being outside and staying active. He has been boating since he was a child.

HackensackMeridianHealth.org 1-800-560-9990 19 No Longer Afraid K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital Treatment helps a young girl live life again.

Imagine having a child who could get sick at any moment and a Chloe wasn’t getting better, and her simple infection could turn life-threatening. Such was daily life frequent illnesses put her life at risk. for Tori Smelt and fiancé Brian Jones, who feared for their little “Chloe got sick so easily. Her body girl, Chloe. just couldn’t fight germs off,” explains When Chloe turned 3 years old, she developed a severe staph Tori. “She needed to be hospitalized infection. Blood tests revealed Chloe had a low white blood cell every time she had a fever over 100.4 count. Specifically, she was depleted of a subtype of white blood degrees, just in case it was a bacterial Jocelyn Lewis, D.O. cell called neutrophils. Board certified in infection. If so, her body had no “The main function of neutrophils is to fight bacterial and defense whatsoever.” Pediatric infections,” explains Jocelyn Lewis, D.O., a pediatric Hematology/ hematologist/oncologist for K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital Oncology Taking Action Neptune at Jersey Shore University Medical Center who cared for Chloe. 1-800-560-9990 Chloe was in and out of K. Hovnanian “Chloe’s low neutrophil count — called neutropenia — was Children’s Hospital for about a month. an autoimmune response. Chloe produced neutrophils, but Doctors released her once she was her own immune system attacked them.” fever-free and her white blood cell Typically, children with autoimmune neutropenia are followed closely but do not count improved. But she would catch require treatment because the condition eventually resolves on its own. Unfortunately, another illness and be back within days. “We couldn’t go anywhere or see anyone for fear she would get sick,” recalls Tori. “She seemed to be getting worse.” Dr. Lewis, who is part of Meridian Pediatric Network, decided that Chloe needed additional help. She performed a bone marrow biopsy — a necessary step to clear her for treatment. When the biopsy showed no other underlying health problems, Chloe began special medication. “Chloe’s medicine tells her body to rev up production of neutrophils. Our goal is to overwhelm the system so that her body will stop attacking itself,” explains Dr. Lewis. “It will help keep her healthy until the condition resolves on its own.”

A Normal Life Tori began giving Chloe shots of the Chloe Jones, 3, with medication twice weekly. It worked. her mom, Tori Smelt, Today, Chloe has been out of the at the playground hospital for more than two months. near their Jackson And her parents are happy to be home. Chloe loves to enjoying life with her again. swim and play. “Chloe is able to have playdates and go to the park. When we get an invitation to a birthday party, it feels great to say yes,” Tori says. “She’s a Care You Can Trust pretty tough little girl. We still worry With our merger with Hackensack University Health Network, about her but now are able to live our we now have another children’s hospital in our family — the lives. We are so thankful for Dr. Lewis. Joseph M. Sanzari Children’s Hospital. Learn more about our hospitals She’s an amazing doctor, a godsend.” at HackensackMeridianHealth.org.

20 Hackensack Meridian HealthViews SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2016 Robert Dennison's passion is riding his motorcycle, especially along the curves and hills of back roads.

Getting Steady Again Raritan Bay Medical Center The Center for Balance helps an Old Bridge patient recover from vertigo.

Last December, Robert Dennison, 67, physicians, physical therapists, and occupational therapists, developed pain on the left side of diagnose the cause of balance problems and develop a treatment his head that wouldn’t go away. He plan based on the results. visited Guillermo Bethencourt, Experts with the Center use a state-of-the-art device known M.D., his Internal Medicine physician as videonystagmography (VNG) to test for and diagnose balance at Raritan Bay. Dr. Bethencourt problems. Robert experienced this test when he was evaluated diagnosed Robert with shingles, a viral during his first appointment. During the test, the patient wears Vicente infection that lives in nerve tissues. special infrared goggles that are equipped with cameras that Zapanta, M.D. Parlin The virus damaged nerves in Robert’s record and measure eye movement. The device also contains a 1-800-560-9990 eyes and ears, which affected his vision component that can identify problems with the inner ear, which and caused severe vertigo, a condition plays a key role in a person’s ability to balance. that causes dizziness. “At its worst, The Center for Balance offers a wide range of treatment options depending on the I was so dizzy I couldn’t even walk,” cause of a patient’s balance problem. One common therapy at the Center is called Robert says. “I had to hold on to vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT). According to Dr. Zapanta, VRT involves many my wife or I’d fall down.” different exercises that help retrain the vestibular system, which controls your balance.

Diagnosing and Treating On the Road to Recovery Balance Problems Robert received VRT at the Center for Balance with physical therapist, Jason Lane, P.T., Dr. Bethencourt referred Robert to for more than 20 weekly sessions. During that time, his dizziness and balance the Center for Balance at Raritan Bay improved. “Before, I could barely walk,” he says. “Now I can even drive my car Medical Center–Perth Amboy. “At the and ride my motorcycle. I’m very pleased with the care they gave me.” Center for Balance, we see patients who have any kind of dizziness or balance problems,” says Vicente Zapanta, M.D., medical director of the Center Having Trouble with Your Balance? for Balance. The Center also has a Balance problems cause falls, which can lead to serious injuries location at Raritan Bay Medical in older adults. If you’re experiencing any balance issues, visit Center–Old Bridge. Experts with the your primary care physician and ask for a prescription to see a Center, including otolaryngologists, provider at the Center for Balance or call 732-324-5030. neurologists, physiatrists, primary care

HackensackMeridianHealth.org 1-800-560-9990 21 A New Treatment Meridian Cancer Care offers Calvin Stone, 67, of Xofigo, a treatment for men Leonardo, is a retired with prostate cancer that slows the career firefighter and spread of the cancer to the bones. started selling fire equipment in Learn more at MeridianHealth.com/ the late 1980s. XOFIGO.

The Right Treatment at the Right Time Riverview Medical Center After an early-stage prostate cancer diagnosis, Leonardo man chooses the treatment option that’s best for him.

Calvin Stone has always been diligent about seeing his we achieve with IMRT radiation therapy (or urologist for his annual checkup and prostate-specific traditional radiation therapy) without increasing antigen (PSA) test, and his exams had always been the risk for side effects or complications,” relatively normal. However, at his exam in 2014, Calvin’s Dr. Danish explains. “This is because of its ability levels were slightly elevated, so his urologist, Babu to focus high doses of radiation to the tumor Surya, M.D., recommended he come back in six months with tremendous accuracy while minimizing instead of 12 to keep an eye on it. Three appointments Adnan radiation exposure to normal, healthy tissue.” over six-month intervals later, Calvin was diagnosed Danish, M.D. In December 2015, Calvin and his wife Board certified in with early-stage prostate cancer and referred to Adnan Medicine, Surgery, arrived at Riverview for his first appointment Danish, M.D., radiation oncologist at Riverview Medical and Oncology feeling completely comfortable and confident. Center, part of Meridian Cancer Care, and medical Red Bank “It was fantastic,” says Calvin. “From 1-800-560-9990 director of Radiation Oncology for Meridian Health. scheduling my appointments to coming in for “My wife and I went to meet Dr. Danish, and he couldn’t each of them, everything ran like clockwork. have been more of a gentleman,” says Calvin. “For more than an hour, he sat The team of nurses and techs was fantastic. with us and went through all my treatment options, explaining them in detail Even better, I was able to listen to music so that I’d understand.” during my treatments.” Calvin returned home with his wife to review his options. As someone Three months after his treatment was who likes to keep busy, Calvin was not interested in undergoing traditional complete, Calvin returned to his urologist radiation therapy, as that would require more than a month of visits and for his first follow-up exam. Tests showed treatments. that his PSA levels had dropped. Over the next “Dr. Danish had suggested that the CyberKnife® system would be a very several months, tests showed his PSA levels effective option for me, given the early stage, and it would only require five days dropping even lower. of treatment vs. 45,” says Calvin. “I knew that was the best situation for me.” “I was so pleased and amazed at the results,” According to Dr. Danish, CyberKnife is a good option for active adults who says Calvin. “I really couldn’t have asked for are faced with an early-stage cancer diagnosis but otherwise feel good. It treats a better experience and would absolutely cancer effectively but alleviates much of the stress that comes along with a recommend CyberKnife and Dr. Danish to diagnosis because it doesn’t drastically alter patients’ daily lives. anyone, anyplace, anytime.” “CyberKnife allows us to offer the same cure rates for prostate cancer that By Caitlin Coyle

22 Hackensack Meridian HealthViews SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2016 Surrounding You with Care

Life moves fast, but you still want to stay in control of your life and health. That’s where we come in. Hackensack Meridian Health is bringing more care to more people, more convenient options, breakthrough treatments, and a truly human experience to everyone. We’re rethinking how to make care seamless and information simple. So from the top of New Jersey to the bottom of the shore, you’ll have everything you need to keep pace with your health.

6,000+ 13 physicians hospitals

28,000 200+ team members facilities

2 Academic Research Hospitals • Hackensack University Medical Center • Jersey Shore University Medical Center

2 Children’s Hospitals • K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital • Joseph M. Sanzari Children’s Hospital

9 Community Hospitals • Ocean Medical Center • Riverview Medical Center • HackensackUMC Mountainside • HackensackUMC Palisades • Raritan Bay Medical Center–Perth Amboy • Southern Ocean Medical Center • Bayshore Community Hospital • Raritan Bay Medical Center–Old Bridge • HackensackUMC at Pascack Valley

HackensackMeridianHealth.org

HackensackMeridianHealth.org 1-800-560-9990 23 All programs are FREE unless otherwise noted. Reserve your spot by calling 1-800-DOCTORS (1-800-362-8677) or 1-800-560-9990 or by visiting HackensackMeridianHealth.org. In cases of severe weather, a program may be canceled as Events late as an hour before the start time. Call 1-800-DOCTORS calendar or 1-800-560-9990 to confi rm.

Meridian Cancer Care It Takes a Village for Good Health Cancer Survivorship Workshop Health and Wellness Fair This four-week workshop Learn about our newest service — The Center for Integrative Health and Medicine. covers motivation, Meet and greet physicians, health screenings, fl u shots, fi tness demo, teddy bear movement, nutrition, clinic, and special appearances from the Pawsitive Action Team. Refreshments, spirituality, and wellness. raffl es, and giveaways. SEPTEMBER 8, 16, 23, AND 27 SEPTEMBER 28, 10:00 A.M. – 1:00 P.M. AND 4:00 – 7:00 P.M. NOON – 2:00 P.M. Meridian Health Village at Jackson, Conference Center Riverview Medical Center Rechnitz Conference Center SEPTEMBER 21 AND 28, AND OCTOBER 5 AND 12, 5:00 – 7:00 P.M. Look Good, Feel Better Every Woman Counts Fresh Start Smoking Ocean Medical Center The American Cancer Society Educational Series Cessation Community Room offers this program to Attend one or all of these This four-session smoking OCTOBER 4, 11, 18, AND 25 individuals being treated for informative programs that cessation program is offered 5:00 – 7:00 P.M. cancer. Learn makeup and will better prepare you to by the American Cancer Southern Ocean Medical hair tricks to help you look make informed choices Society. Success in the Center, Beach Plum Conference Room and feel better. To register, about prevention, breast program requires attendance call 1-800-227-2345. health, and current treatment at all four sessions. Call for OCTOBER 13, 20, AND 27, AND NOVEMBER 3, 4:00 – 6:00 P.M. SEPTEMBER 26, 1:00 – 3:00 P.M. options. Refreshments will dates, times, and locations. Jersey Shore University Jersey Shore University be served, educational Medical Center, Cancer Center Medical Center, Cancer Center materials, and prizes. Meridian Conference Room Conference Room • Breast Cancer Myths OCTOBER 3, 1:00 – 3:00 P.M. CardioVascular Stop Smoking OCTOBER 1, 9:00 – 11:00 A.M. Network Ocean Medical Center Meridian Health Village at with Hypnosis Community Room Jackson, Conference Center Getting a Leg Up on Fee: $30. Group session. OCTOBER 24, 6:30 – 8:30 P.M. SPEAKER: DENISE JOHNSON Varicose Veins SEPTEMBER 12 AND OCTOBER 10 Meridian Fitness and MILLER, M.D. Join Lawrence Mueller, M.D., Wellness, Manahawkin 7:00 – 8:00 P.M. • The Latest in Breast as he discusses varicose veins, Meridian Fitness and Cancer Screenings their causes, and the latest Wellness, Hazlet CELEBRATE OCTOBER 4, NOON – 1:30 P.M. treatment options. Screenings SEPTEMBER 26, 7:00 – 8:00 P.M. ER BREAST CANCER to follow the lectures. B Bayshore Community Hospital O Meridian Community T AWARENESS Conference Rooms A and B C SEPTEMBER 8, 10:00 A.M. – NOON Resource Center at O MONTH SPEAKER: DEBRA CAMAL, M.D. Freehold Raceway Mall OCTOBER 18, 7:00 – 9:00 P.M. • Healthy Choices OCTOBER 12, 7:00 – 8:00 P.M. Meridian Health Village at Before and After Breast Meridian Fitness and Jackson, Conference Center Wellness, Manahawkin Cancer Diagnosis SEPTEMBER 13, 10:00 A.M. – NOON OCTOBER 11, 6:00 – 8:00 P.M. OCTOBER 25, 7:00 – 9:00 P.M. Meridian Fitness and Jersey Shore University Wellness, Brick Medical Center, Brennan Save the Date SPEAKER: YOLANDA TAMMARO, M.D. Rooms 104/105 • Panel Discussion SEPTEMBER 27, 10:00 A.M. – NOON Mitchell Vassar Vision Awareness Day OCTOBER 25, 6:00 – 8:00 P.M. OCTOBER 27, 7:00 – 9:00 P.M. Featuring inspirational and motivational speaker, Meridian Community Major (Retired) Scotty Smiley, who will share his Meridian Community Resource Center at Resource Center at message of perseverance, courage, and hope. Freehold Raceway Mall Freehold Raceway Mall NOVEMBER 11, 2016 SPEAKERS: DENISE JOHNSON MILLER, M.D.; DEBRA CAMAL, 11:00 A.M. – 2:00 P.M. M.D.; AND CATHY CAMPO, D.O. Grand Marquis, Old Bridge

2424 Hackensack Meridian HealthViews SEPTEMBER/OCTOBERSEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 20162016 ®

Cholesterol: Abdominal Aortic Meridian Know Your Numbers Aneurysms Neuroscience AngioScreen Learn the difference between Learn the signs and Solutions to Balance good and bad cholesterol, risk symptoms as well as the Problems factors, treatment options, latest in testing and treatment Learn some of the causes and strategies for getting options for aneurysms. of balance problems and your numbers under control. Learn your risk for heart attack OCTOBER 13, 11:00 A.M. – NOON exercises you can do to and stroke. Includes carotid SEPTEMBER 13, 10:00 – 11:00 A.M. Meridian Fitness and reduce your risk for falls. Meridian Health Village Wellness, Hazlet artery ultrasound, heart rhythm, at Jackson SPEAKER: HABIB KHAN, M.D. SEPTEMBER 20, 2:30 – 3:30 P.M. blood pressure, and screening SEPTEMBER 13, 11:00 A.M. – NOON OCTOBER 31, 2:00 – 3:00 P.M. Ocean County Library – for abdominal aortic aneurysm Point Pleasant Beach Meridian Fitness and Meridian Fitness and and peripheral artery disease Wellness, Manahawkin Wellness, Manahawkin SEPTEMBER 29, 5:00 – 6:30 P.M. (PAD). Receive a color report SEPTEMBER 22, 1:00 – 2:00 P.M. SPEAKER: JEFFERY HAGER, D.O. Raritan Bay Medical Center of your fi ndings, educational 2 Hospital Plaza, Suite 420 Riverview Medical Center Old Bridge material, and a consultation Two River Conference Suite Living with Heart Failure with a registered nurse. Balance screenings will be provided. OCTOBER 13, 1:00 – 2:00 P.M. Learn how to maximize SPEAKER: VICENTE ZAPANTA, M.D. Fall special: $49.95 Meridian Community your quality of life while Resource Center at living with heart failure. OCTOBER 6, 10:30 – 11:30 A.M. Registration is required. Meridian Health Village at Freehold Raceway Mall OCTOBER 18, 3:30 – 4:30 P.M. Jackson, Conference Center SEPTEMBER 8, 9:30 A.M. – 4:00 P.M. Cooking with Heart Ocean Medical Center Bayshore Community Hospital Community Room Conference Rooms A and B Hear the latest information Stroke: Are You at Risk? OCTOBER 20, 11:00 A.M. – NOON on heart disease, the warning Fast action is needed to be SEPTEMBER 12, 9:30 A.M. – 4:00 P.M. Meridian Fitness and taken if someone is having a OCTOBER 13, 1:00 – 7:30 P.M. signs, and prevention measures Wellness, Manahawkin you can take by staying healthy. stroke. Learn the signs and Joslin Diabetes Center symptoms and what you 2 Hospital Drive, Suite 420 There will be an entertaining The Rhythm of should do if someone is Raritan Bay Medical heart-healthy cooking Your Heart Center–Old Bridge demonstration and food having a stroke. Learn about the signs and SEPTEMBER 13, 9:30 A.M. – 4:00 P.M. tasting as well as information SEPTEMBER 8, 1:00 – 2:00 P.M. symptoms of different heart Southern Ocean Medical Center session with a nutritionist. rhythm disorders and Middletown Senior Registration required. Center, 900 Leonardville SEPTEMBER 15, 9:30 A.M. – 4:00 P.M. treatments available. Roar, Leonardo OCTOBER 13, 11:00 A.M. – 1:00 P.M. Dinner will be served. OCTOBER 11, 1:00 – 7:30 P.M. Neptune City Community SEPTEMBER 20, 6:00 – 7:00 P.M. Jersey Shore University Center, 117 3rd Ave. OCTOBER 20, DINNER: 5:30 P.M. Jersey Shore University Medical Center SPEAKER: JASON NEHMAD, M.D. LECTURE: 6:00 P.M. Medical Center, Brennan Brennan Rooms 104/105 Arbor Terrace, Middletown Rooms 104/105 SEPTEMBER 20, 1:00 – 7:30 P.M. SEPTEMBER 30, 11:00 A.M. – NOON OCTOBER 29, 9:00 A.M. – 2:30 P.M. Meridian Fitness and Wellness, Manahawkin Meridian Fitness and Wellness, Brick SPEAKER: TOMMASINA Parkinson’s PAPA-RUGINO, M.D. SEPTEMBER 22, 1:00 – 7:30 P.M. OCTOBER 20, 9:30 A.M. – 4:00 P.M. Disease Series Headaches and Riverview Medical Center Join us for one or all of our Parkinson’s Migraines Rechnitz Conference Center disease programs. Learn the causes and SEPTEMBER 24, 10:30 A.M. – 3:00 P.M. treatment options for OCTOBER 24, 1:00 – 7:30 P.M. Latest in Diagnosis and headaches and migraines. Meridian Community Treatment Options SEPTEMBER 20, 6:30 – 7:30 P.M. Resource Center at SEPTEMBER 26, 11:00 A.M. – NOON Meridian Community Freehold Raceway Mall Meridian Fitness and Wellness, Manahawkin Resource Center at SEPTEMBER 26, 1:00 – 7:30 P.M. SPEAKER: ROBERT TERRANOVA, D.O. Freehold Raceway Mall SPEAKER: JORGE CORZO, M.D. OCTOBER 27, 9:30 A.M. – 4:00 P.M. Medications and Parkinson’s Disease OCTOBER 21, 11:00 A.M. – NOON YMCA Perth Amboy 357 New Brunswick Ave. OCTOBER 4, 2:00 – 3:00 P.M. Meridian Fitness and Jersey Shore University Medical Center Wellness, Manahawkin SEPTEMBER 30, 9:30 A.M. – 4:00 P.M. Brennan Rooms 104/105 SPEAKER: TOMMASINA OCTOBER 10, 1:00 – 7:30 P.M. OCTOBER 13, 11:00 A.M. – NOON PAPA-RUGINO, M.D. Meridian Health Village at Riverview Medical Center Jackson, Conference Center Shrewsbury River Conference Suite OCTOBER 6, 9:30 A.M. – 4:00 P.M. Parkinson’s and Your Speech: Meridian Fitness and Big and Loud Wellness, Hazlet OCTOBER 14, 1:00 – 2:00 P.M. OCTOBER 19, 1:00 – 7:30 P.M. Meridian Fitness and Meridian Fitness and Wellness, Manahawkin Wellness, Manahawkin

HackensackMeridianHealth.orgTo register, call 1-800-DOCTORS or 1-800-560-9990. 1-800-560-9990 2525 Memory Loss and Living with Meridian Pediatric Diabetes Alzheimer’s Disease Chronic Pain? Network Rise and Fall of There is a difference between Learn the latest in Safe Sitter Blood Sugar normal memory loss and treatment options for Babysitter training for boys Learn how the changes in Alzheimer’s disease. Learn managing chronic pain. and girls ages 11 to 14. The your blood sugar can affect the signs, symptoms, and SEPTEMBER 20, 6:30 – 7:30 P.M. class includes handling you and how to control it. treatment options. Meridian Fitness and emergencies, fi rst aid, SEPTEMBER 8, 6:00 – 7:00 P.M. Wellness, Hazlet OCTOBER 4, 6:00 – 7:00 P.M. and CPR. Fee: $40. Meridian Community Meridian Community SPEAKER: JAVIER SOARES, M.D. Resource Center at OCTOBER 10, 9:00 A.M. – 3:30 P.M. Resource Center at OCTOBER 18, 6:30 – 7:30 P.M. Freehold Raceway Mall Ocean Medical Center East Freehold Raceway Mall Meridian Community Wing, Conference Room C SEPTEMBER 19, 11:00 A.M. – NOON Resources Center at and Meridian Fitness and Meridian Freehold Raceway Mall Wellness, Manahawkin SPEAKER: JORGE CORZO, M.D. Riverview Medical Center Orthopedics Shrewsbury River Conference Suite Managing Diabetes No Bones About It! Oh My Achy Back! While Living with Do you have osteoporosis? Joseph Marsicano, M.D., Chronic Pulmonary Learn the latest on medication, will discuss what might be Childbirth/Maternity Disease causing your spine issues vitamins, diet, and exercise. Meet the Midwife Learn how some medications and the latest treatment Bone screenings provided. Learn how midwifery can that you may be taking for options that are available. SEPTEMBER 9, 3:00 – 4:30 P.M. support a healthy pregnancy, chronic pulmonary disease Meridian Fitness and OCTOBER 19, 3:00 – 4:00 P.M. from planning to delivery to can compromise your sugar Wellness, Manahawkin Meridian Fitness and postpartum recovery. levels and how you can SPEAKER: STANLEY MICHAEL, M.D. Wellness, Brick SEPTEMBER 15, 6:30 – 7:30 P.M. regulate with diet and exercise. OCTOBER 5, 2:00 – 3:00 P.M. Meridian Community SEPTEMBER 15, 11:00 A.M. – NOON Meridian Fitness and Total Joint Resource Center at Ocean Medical Center Wellness, Brick Replacement Freehold Raceway Mall Community Room Learn the latest in diagnosis All About Your Feet and treatment options for Childbirth Education Gina Lagnese, DPM, will Take Control of Your total joint replacement. Series discuss the most common Health for Diabetes OCTOBER 17, 1:00 – 2:00 P.M. Meridian Health offers classes Learn practical skills and foot ailments and treatment Meridian Health Village at and seminars for fi rst-time and strategies for managing options. Foot screenings Jackson, Conference Center experienced parents, as well diabetic symptoms, setting to be provided. SPEAKER: KARL BLUM, M.D. as tours, classes for siblings, goals, problem solving, SEPTEMBER 22, 11:00 A.M. – NOON OCTOBER 20, 6:30 – 7:30 P.M. and more! Registration is meal planning, and more. Meridian Fitness and Meridian Community required. Please register Six-week program. Wellness, Hazlet Resource Center at before your third trimester. Freehold Raceway Mall Registration required. Sports Injury SPEAKER: NADER BAKHOS, M.D. To learn more about our fun STARTING OCTOBER 6 and informative classes, visit Prevention OCTOBER 26, NOON – 1:00 P.M. 10:00 A.M. – 12:30 P.M. MeridianMomtourage.com. Christina Lusk-Caceres, D.O., Meridian Fitness and Meridian Health Village at will share tips on how to Wellness, Brick Jackson, Conference Center prevent sports injuries and SPEAKER: JOEL FECHISIN, M.D. Counseling and what you should do if you Behavioral Health Comprehensive get hurt. Diabetes Management Children’s Counseling Individual or group SEPTEMBER 27, 6:30 – 7:30 P.M. Meridian Behavioral Health educational and support Meridian Community offers a variety of counseling Resource Center at programs. To register, call Freehold Raceway Mall services. We offer age-specifi c Bayshore Community Hospital group therapy, a therapeutic at 732-888-7362, Riverview after-school program for Medical Center and children ages 7 to 13, and Ocean Medical Center at traditional individual and 732-530-2555, Jersey Shore family therapy. Call University Medical Center at 732-869-2784, ext. 2, 732-897-3980, Southern Baby Fest for registration, schedules, Ocean Medical Center at Learn about programs and and fees. 609-978-3491, or Raritan Bay services for the whole family, Medical Center–Old Bridge at health and nutrition education, Addiction and 732-360-4070. maternity unit tours, giveaways, Recovery Services raffl es, and more. For adult family members SEPTEMBER 22, 4:00 – 7:00 P.M. of addicted individuals. Raritan Bay Medical Center – Call for information. Perth Amboy, Centennial Hall

26 Hackensack Meridian HealthViews SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2016 Fitness Senior Programs SEPTEMBER 8, 22, AND The Vegetarian Diet: OCTOBER 11, 20, 7:00 – 8:00 P.M. Exercising After But Where’s The AARP Smart Driver SEPTEMBER 22 AND OCTOBER 20 Having a Stroke Protein? This driving program is for 6:00 – 7:00 P.M. Learn how to improve your Learn how you can maintain adults ages 50 and older Ocean Medical Center a vegetarian diet but still get mobility with exercises who want to develop safe SEPTEMBER 27 AND OCTOBER 25 after having a stroke. the right amount of protein. defensive-driving techniques. 7:00 – 8:30 P.M. SEPTEMBER 12, 11:00 A.M. – NOON OCTOBER 20, 11:00 A.M. – NOON Fee: $15 for AARP members Toms River Town Hall Meridian Fitness and Meridian Fitness and and $20 for nonmembers. 33 Washington Street Wellness, Manahawkin Wellness, Hazlet Make checks payable to AARP. SEPTEMBER 15, 11:00 A.M. – NOON Call for dates and times. Weight-Loss Surgery: Meridian Health Village at Spice It Up! The Facts Jackson, Conference Center Join us for a free cooking The Power of Aging Karl Strom, M.D., medical demo and learn some tips SEPTEMBER 28, 2:00 – 3:00 P.M. Learn what is normal in the director of the Bariatric on how to make your meals Meridian Fitness and aging process and what may Center of Excellence at Wellness, Hazlet healthy, but not bland or be a concern for you. Southern Ocean Medical boring. Registration required. OCTOBER 18, 11:00 A.M. – NOON SEPTEMBER 12, 2:00 – 3:00 P.M. Center and Bayshore Call 1-855-TIME-4-ME. Meridian Fitness and Meridian Community Community Hospital, with Wellness, Brick OCTOBER 5, 5:30 – 6:30 P.M. Resource Center at surgeons Jonathan Reich, Joslin Diabetes Center Freehold Raceway Mall M.D., and Silvia Fresco, M.D., The Power of Yoga 2 Hospital Plaza, Suite 420 SEPTEMBER 29, 10:00 – 11:00 A.M. will host educational Yoga can help you by making Raritan Bay Medical Center– Meridian Fitness and programs on the benefi ts Old Bridge you fi t, fl exible, and stress- Wellness, Brick of weight-loss surgery. free. Free demo class. Nutrition Counseling OCTOBER 26, 11:00 A.M. – NOON SEPTEMBER 1, 7:00 – 8:30 P.M. SEPTEMBER 14 AND OCTOBER 12 Meridian Fitness and Riverview Medical Center Consult a registered Wellness, Hazlet 6:30 – 7:30 P.M. SEPTEMBER 13 AND 29, AND dietitian to design a food Memory screenings to follow Meridian Fitness and plan that meets your weight OCTOBER 4 AND 27, 7:00 – 8:30 P.M. Wellness, Hazlet the lecture. management and medical Meridian Fitness and SEPTEMBER 21 AND OCTOBER 19 nutrition needs. For more Wellness, Hazlet 6:00 – 7:00 P.M. Seniors Living information, registration, or with Depression SEPTEMBER 13 AND OCTOBER 11 Meridian Community fees, call Riverview Medical 7:00 – 8:30 P.M. Resource Center at Learn the signs and Ramada Inn, 2373 Route 9 Freehold Raceway Mall Center at 732-530-2555, symptoms as well as Toms River Meridian Outpatient treatment options for SEPTEMBER 14 AND OCTOBER 12 Rehabilitation at Point depression in seniors. Nutrition Pleasant at 732-206-8263, 2:00 – 3:30 P.M. OCTOBER 6, 1:30 – 2:30 P.M. Southern Ocean Medical OCTOBER 6, 7:00 – 8:30 P.M. Weight Loss Meridian Community Bayshore Community with Hypnosis Center at 609-978-3491, or Resource Center at Hospital, Conference Rooms Lose weight with Raritan Bay Medical Center– Freehold Raceway Mall A and B hypnotherapy. Fee $30. Old Bridge at 732-360-4070 or Perth Amboy at Caregiver Symposium SEPTEMBER 14 AND OCTOBER 5 SEPTEMBER 14, 7:00 – 8:00 P.M. 7:00 – 8:30 P.M. Meridian Fitness and 1-855-TIME-4-ME. for Alzheimer’s Disease Juggling many things can be Southern Ocean Medical Wellness, Manahawkin Center, Conference Rooms Screenings overwhelming. William Power, 1 and 2 Fueling Up Properly M.D., will discuss Alzheimer’s Blood Pressure SEPTEMBER 20 AND OCTOBER 18 Before You Exercise and ways to handle stress. 7:00 – 8:30 P.M. Free blood pressure screenings. Are you taking in enough or Light dinner will be served. Double Tree Hilton, 700 Hope eating too much compared Call for dates and locations. OCTOBER 12, 6:00 – 8:00 P.M. Road, Tinton Falls to the amount of exercising Southern Ocean Medical Diabetic Retinopathy SEPTEMBER 26 AND OCTOBER 24 you do? Learn how to balance Center, Rooms 1 and 2 7:00 – 8:30 P.M. Registration required. exercise and nutrition. Southern Ocean Center for SEPTEMBER 21, 4:00 – 5:00 P.M. SEPTEMBER 27 Weight-Loss Surgery Health, 279 Mathiston Road Meridian Fitness and 10:00 A.M. – 1:00 P.M. Little Egg Harbor Wellness, Brick OCTOBER 13, 4:00 – 7:00 P.M. Weight-Loss Surgery: SEPTEMBER 27 AND OCTOBER 25 Explore Your Options OCTOBER 6, 6:30 – 7:30 P.M. Meridian Fitness and 6:00 – 7:30 P.M. Anil Pahuja, M.D., medical Meridian Fitness and Wellness, Hazlet OCTOBER 19, 1:00 – 2:30 P.M. director of the Bariatric Center Wellness, Hazlet The Center for Bariatrics, 355 at Ocean Medical Center, OCTOBER 11, 11:00 A.M. – NOON Balance Screenings Lakehurst Road, Toms River Call for dates, times, and and James Pasquariello, M.D., Meridian Fitness and Wellness, Manahawkin locations. will discuss the benefi ts of and options for weight-loss surgery. OCTOBER 11, 4:00 – 5:00 P.M. Meridian Health Village at SEPTEMBER 13 AND OCTOBER 6 Jackson, Conference Center 7:00 – 8:00 P.M. Meridian Health Village at Jackson, Conference Center

HackensackMeridianHealth.orgTo register, call 1-800-DOCTORS or 1-800-560-9990. 1-800-560-9990 2727 25th Annual Women’s Health Night Gather up your friends and spend an evening devoted to your personal wellness. Meet our physicians and take part in free health screenings, interactive displays, and giveaways. Lipid screenings will be held on October 24, 7:00 – 9:00 A.M., and results provided at the event. You must fast for 12 hours before being screened. OCTOBER 26, 5:30 – 8:30 P.M. Southern Ocean Medical Center

Is Weight-Loss Surgery General Wellness Reliable Internet All About Hernias Right for Me? Vitamins and Information Lauren Fischer, M.D., will Ayotunde Adeyeri, M.D., Medications Join experts from Meridian’s discuss the different hernia medical director of the Institute Pharmacist will discuss library and learn how to fi nd types, symptoms, diagnosis, for Weight Loss, will discuss the interactions between good resources and the safe and treatment options. benefi ts of weight-loss surgery. medications and vitamins. way to navigate the internet. OCTOBER 5, 6:30 – 7:30 P.M. To register, call 1-855-TIME-4- SEPTEMBER 6, 10:00 – 11:00 A.M. SEPTEMBER 21, 1:00 – 2:00 P.M. Meridian Fitness and ME (1-855-846-3463). Meridian Fitness and Meridian Fitness and Wellness, Hazlet SEPTEMBER 12 AND OCTOBER 10 Wellness Center, Hazlet Wellness, Manahawkin 7:00 – 8:00 P.M. OCTOBER 26, 11:00 A.M. – NOON Integrative Medicine: SEPTEMBER 28 AND OCTOBER 26 Take Control of Jersey Shore University What Is It? 7:30 – 8:30 P.M. Your Health Medical Center, Vivian Kominos, M.D., will Institute for Weight Loss Learn practical skills and Brennan Rooms 104/105 discuss what integrative 3 Hospital Plaza, Suite 404 strategies for managing medicine is and how it may Raritan Bay Medical Center– symptoms, working with Signs Your Thyroid be able to help improve Old Bridge health care professionals, Isn’t Working your overall mental and setting weekly goals, problem Learn the difference between physical health. Options for Weight- solving, relaxing, eating well, hypo- and hyperthyroidism, Loss Surgery OCTOBER 11, 4:30 – 5:30 P.M. and exercising safely and Graves’ disease, symptoms, Meridian Health Village at Seth Kipnis, M.D., medical easily. Six-week program. and treatment options. Jackson, Conference Center director of the Center for Registration is required. SEPTEMBER 22, 6:30 – 7:30 P.M. Weight-Loss Surgery at Jersey STARTING SEPTEMBER 12 Meridian Community Bladder Health Shore University Medical Resource Center at 10:30 A.M. – 1:00 P.M. John Rose, M.D., will discuss Center, discusses the benefi ts Freehold Raceway Mall bladder health, including of weight-loss surgery. Meridian Community SPEAKER: CRISTINA CIORLIAN, M.D. Resource Center at chronic conditions, signs, SEPTEMBER 14, 6:00 – 7:00 P.M. Freehold Raceway Mall OCTOBER 6, 11:00 A.M. – NOON symptoms, and treatment Jersey Shore University STARTING OCTOBER 18 Riverview Medical Center options. Shrewsbury River Medical Center, Medical 10:00 A.M. – 12:30 P.M. Staff Boardroom Conference Suite OCTOBER 19, 6:30 – 7:30 P.M. Meridian Fitness and SPEAKER: MONICA BAIS, M.D. Riverview Medical Center OCTOBER 5, 6:00 – 7:00 P.M. Wellness, Manahawkin Two River Conference Suite Meridian Health Village at Wound Care Jackson, Conference Center Eyes Are Everything Learn about the causes Learn about vision changes Meridian Programs for wounds and the latest as you age and things you can and Services treatment options. Lyrics for Life do to protect your eyes from SEPTEMBER 29, 11:00 A.M. – NOON Clinical Trials disease. Screenings to follow To learn about current clinical Series lecture. Lunch will be provided. Riverview Medical Center Shrewsbury River trials available at Meridian For more information or to SEPTEMBER 20, 1:00 – 2:30 P.M. Conference Suite Health, visit MeridianHealth. register for these events, Meridian Community OCTOBER 6, 11:00 A.M. – NOON com, call 732-776-2953, visit MeridianHealth.com/ Resource Center at or e-mail clinicaltrials@ Freehold Raceway Mall Meridian Fitness and TunedIntoYourHealth or Wellness, Manahawkin meridianhealth.com. SPEAKER: RALPH DELNEGRO, D.O. call 1-800-560-9990. OCTOBER 27, 11:00 A.M. – 1:00 P.M. Goals of Care CPR Training Dance4Life Riverview Medical Center Are you or your loved one All Meridian hospitals are Family-friendly event featuring Navesink River Conference Suite facing a serious illness? American Heart Association dance-off, health information, SPEAKER: BRETT FRIEMAN, D.O. Learn about options, CPR training centers. Call for prizes, kids’ corner, refreshments, decisions, and support that dates, times, and locations of and more. Suggested $5 donation are available to you and classes offered. to benefi t K. Hovnanian Children’s your family on this journey. Hospital. Light lunch to be served. Infectious Disease Clinic SEPTEMBER 24, 11:00 A.M. – 3:00 P.M. OCTOBER 5, 12:30 – 2:00 P.M. Located at Jersey Shore iPlay America, 110 Schank Road Southern Ocean Medical University Medical Center. Call Freehold Center, Conference Rooms 732-774-0151 to schedule a 1 and 2 free, confi dential appointment.

28 Hackensack Meridian HealthViews SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2016 A Wellness Destination Hackensack Meridian Health Meridian Health Village at Jackson provides convenient health services under one roof.

Like Melissa Bezahler of Jackson, we’re all busy Caring for the Community these days. Our lives are increasingly filled The Center for Integrative Health and Medicine is the newest addition to with an abundance of errands to do every day. Meridian Health Village. Integrative medicine is a holistic approach to health Imagine one convenient location where you can and wellness that combines traditional and nontraditional disciplines with a walk in to see a physician, get an X-ray, have lab focus on the whole person — mind, body, and spirit. work done, pick up your prescription, and head Meridian Health Village at Jackson has drawn national and international home — making one stop instead of three or attention for its one-stop shopping model and received the prestigious Silver four. Meridian Health Village at Jackson delivers Gull Economic Development Award from the Monmouth-Ocean Development this healthy dose of convenience and simplicity Council for its positive impact on the area by creating new jobs and acting as to your health and wellness needs. an anchor for overall economic development and vitality. Meridian Health Village at Jackson brings Residents of Jackson and the surrounding communities are happy to have health care and wellness services to Jackson- Meridian Health Village as their local destination for health and wellness. area residents. The 150,000-square-foot facility, located on the corner of South Cooks Bridge By Larry Ginsberg and Bennetts Mills roads, just minutes from West County Line Road, offers the widest variety of physicians and medical, diagnostic, At 4½ months old, outpatient, fitness, and related services in a Jack Bezahler was treated at single location outside a hospital setting Meridian Health Village at Jackson for urgent care. Jack’s anywhere in the region. mom, Melissa, says they love walking at Michael J. Tighe State-of-the-Art Features Park in Freehold. The three-story building has three distinctive entrances that lead to a sky-lit center atrium that features touch-screen directory kiosks. The main floor includes a 28,000-square-foot fitness center with swimming pool, full-service pharmacy, laboratory services, imaging center, urgent care center, comprehensive cancer care center, cardiac diagnostic and rehabilitation center, and outpatient rehabilitation center that offers therapy and audiology services. Meridian Health Village features more than 100 physicians representing more than 25 medical groups and more than 20 medical specialties, including primary care/internal medicine, pediatrics and pediatric subspecialists, cardiology, OB/GYN, endocrinology, medical oncology and radiology, urology, gastroenterology, pulmonology, pain medicine, ENT, surgery, nephrology, renal medicine, and many others. Women’s services also include the Center for Breastfeeding, staffed by board-certified lactation consultants. The lower level has a state-of-the-art same-day surgery center that accommodates many outpatient procedures. It also features a Easy Access to Care conference center with flexible meeting space, Meridian Health Village is your one-stop shop for health where Meridian Health has hosted hundreds needs, from primary care to surgery and everything in of free wellness lectures, screenings, and between. For a full list of services and physicians at our award- health fairs for the community, as well as winning facility, or to view a schedule of upcoming events, visit events and conferences for business and MeridianHealthVillage.com. community groups.

HackensackMeridianHealth.org 1-800-560-9990 29 Craft a care plan. Talk with your doctor about Hackensack Meridian Health Learning that healthy changes you can make to your lifestyle. “Though you no longer have cancer can be the you might need more rest than before, you should also ask about starting an exercise program,” says David most relieving words you hear after Greenberg, M.D., medical oncologist with Jersey Shore you’ve undergone treatment. University Medical Center. “Several studies show physical activity reduces the risk for cancer recurrence and lengthens But as you move on with your life as a cancer survivor, it’s survivors’ lives.” important to know that you may still deal with physical and emotional scars. Being prepared to adjust to life after cancer Schedule follow-up visits. Regular visits help your can help ease your mind and keep you healthy. Our experts, doctor keep tabs on your health. He or she will watch all part of Meridian Cancer Care, offer steps you can take in for signs your cancer has returned and for long-term the days ahead. side effects from your treatment. At first, you may return every three to four months, then once or twice per year. Stephen Windsor, M.D., with Riverview Medical Center, says, “Ask your doctor how often, and whom, you should see. In some cases, you may switch to a center or program specially designed to care for cancer survivors.”

30 HackensackMeridian HealthViews Meridian HealthViews SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2016 2016 Stephen Windsor, M.D. Little Silver 1-800-560-9990

Manage your side effects. Almost any Take care of your body. Between therapy for cancer can have side effects. follow-up visits, take note of how you feel “While some fade after a few weeks or and any changes to your body. Share your months, others endure far longer,” says Robert observations at your next appointment. “Ask your Khoo, M.D., with Southern Ocean Medical doctor if there are specific warning signs that Center. “You might feel tired, gain or lose weight, require an urgent call, such as pain, bleeding, or or have a hard time concentrating or sleeping. Be digestive issues,” recommends William Lerner, Aileen Chen, M.D. Board certified in sure to bring up any problems you encounter with M.D., of Ocean Medical Center. Hematology, Medical your health care team.” Oncology, and Internal Medicine Be open with your family. Recovering Holmdel Cope with your emotions. Fears about from cancer takes time and involves the 1-800-560-9990 cancer returning are common. Aileen Chen, whole family. In addition, your doctor, M.D., of Bayshore Community Hospital, counselor, or social worker can help you navigate suggests, “Instead of worrying on a negative, these changes. focus on things in your control, such as taking an active role in your follow-up care and getting a good balance of rest and exercise.” In addition, almost everyone feels better with support. Yours might come from family members, friends, a SUPPORT FOR SURVIVORS David support group, or counselors. If your doctor Greenberg, M.D. It is important throughout any stage of suspects you have depression, medication or talk Board certified in cancer to address emotional and physical Hematology and therapy can help. Medical Oncology needs, and to be surrounded by the Manasquan people who matter most. Survivors are 1-800-560-9990 empowered to take charge of their health and well-being, and learn strategies to live a healthy life and reduce the chance of recurrence. Meridian’s nurse navigation team provides personalized treatment based on an individual diagnosis and unique circumstances.

The areas in which support is Robert Khoo, M.D. provided include: Board certified in • Nutrition Colon and Rectal Surgery, and • Exercise General Surgery • Stress reduction Manahawkin 1-800-560-9990 • Smoking cessation • Routine screenings • Colonoscopies • Mammograms • Pap smears • PSA and digital rectal exams • Skin exams

To learn more about Meridian Cancer William Lerner, M.D. Care’s survivorship and support Board certified in programs, visit the community calendar Hematology, Medical Oncology, and or call 1-800-560-9990. Internal Medicine Brick 1-800-560-9990

HackensackMeridianHealth.org 1-800-560-9990 31 PRIMARY INTERIM WORDMARK

Hackensack University Non-Profit Org. Medical Center and U.S. Postage Joseph M. Sanzari PAID Children’s Hospital Meridian Health 30 Prospect Avenue Hackensack, NJ 07601 IHOR S. SAWCZUK, M.D., FACS President, Hackensack University Medical Center STEPHEN PERCY, M.D. Interim Chairman, Joseph M. Sanzari Children’s Hospital

Jersey Shore University Medical Center and K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital 1945 Route 33 Neptune, NJ 07753 KENNETH N. SABLE, M.D., MBA, FACEP President

Ocean Medical Center 425 Jack Martin Blvd. Brick, NJ 08724 DEAN Q. LIN, MHA, MBA, FACHE Regional President

Riverview Medical Center One Riverview Plaza Red Bank, NJ 07701 This is where Innovation TIMOTHY J. HOGAN, FACHE President meets Inspiration. HackensackUMC Mountainside One Bay Avenue Montclair, NJ 07042 JOHN FROMHOLD President and CEO

HackensackUMC Palisades 7600 River Road Introducing Hackensack Meridian Health. North Bergen, NJ 07047 At Hackensack Meridian Health, providing exceptional care and experiences BRUCE J. MARKOWITZ is only part of our story. We’re defining the future of medicine — bringing President and CEO together academics and scientific discovery in bold new ways. By partnering Raritan Bay Medical with Seton Hall University, we’re building the medical school of tomorrow… Center–Perth Amboy a place where an emphasis on team-based clinical care will underscore the 530 New Brunswick Avenue Perth Amboy, NJ 08861 roles of research and discovery. As part of our commitment to humanize MICHAEL R. D’AGNES, FACHE health, we’ve launched an Office of Experience and are already heartwiring President the new standards for linking safety, quality, empathy and respect. And to keep our communities healthy and vibrant, we’re partnering with innovative Southern Ocean Medical Center companies to change and simplify health care delivery — at the speed of life. 1140 Route 72 West Manahawkin, NJ 08050 To learn more, visit HackensackMeridianHealth.org. JOE COYLE President

Bayshore Community Hospital 727 North Beers Street Holmdel, NJ 07733 TIMOTHY J. HOGAN, FACHE President

Raritan Bay Medical Center–Old Bridge One Hospital Plaza Old Bridge, NJ 08857 MICHAEL R. D’AGNES, FACHE President

HackensackUMC at Pascack Valley 250 Old Hook Road Westwood, NJ 07675 EMILY HOLLIMAN CEO

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