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March 17, 2017 MEDICAL UNIVERSITY of SOUTH CAROLINA Vol. 35, No. 8

Medical student succeeds in military match SACSCOC reaffirms BY J. RYNE DANIELSON [email protected] MUSC accreditation

raduation is just the first step on the path to for 10 years Gbecoming a physician. After medical school, new doctors must spend anywhere from three to seven years Staff Report training under the supervision of experienced clinicians MUSC has received reaffirmation of its before they can be licensed to practice medicine on accreditation from the Southern Association of their own. And getting into a good residency program Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges is just as competitive and nerve–wracking as getting (SACSCOC). SACSCOC is the university’s into medical school in the first place. Only this time, regional accrediting body, which determines, graduates are subject to the discretion of an algorithm among other things, whether MUSC is authorized devised by the National Resident Matching Program to offer federal financial aid to students. that weighs applicants’ preferences against the needs of Reaffirmation of MUSC’s accreditation by various residencies to determine the best matches for SACSCOC occurs every 10 years. both. The SACSCOC reviewers visited the MUSC For students like Jameaka Hamilton, a second campus over the past two days for two key reasons: lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force, the process can be First, to determine whether the university meets even more complicated. “Military match starts earlier,” each of SACSCOC’s 103 standards through she said. “Our season starts in July and our Match Day Photo by J. Ryne Danielson interviews with MUSC leaders, faculty, staff and is in December. So, we do our away rotations earlier Fourth-year medical student Jameaka Hamilton students. The reviewers had previously received than other students.” is headed to Brooke Army Medical Center in San substantial written documentation of MUSC’s That means balancing studying for board exams, Antonio, Texas after completing a military early compliance with these standards. The on-site which usually take place around the same time, with match. She will specialize in obstetrics and gynecology. visit rounded out this information with personal applications and interviews for residency programs. “I Hamilton’s specialty will be obstetrics and gynecology. interactions. also had to apply to the civilian match, just in case I got “OB-GYN has the balance I was looking for between By the end of their visit, the reviewers a deferment,” Hamilton said. “As soon as I completed clinic–based primary care and also being a surgeon and determined that MUSC is in compliance with my military applications, I started going on civilian developing my surgical skill,” she explained. all standards. Furthermore, the group noted they interviews. There was a lot going on.” She knew she wanted to be a doctor at the age of 14 had no recommendations concerning compliance, The process was nerve–wracking at times, she said. when a medical scare sent her into the hospital, and a noteworthy achievement in the accreditation “I was encouraged to have a Plan A, B, C and D — she saw the work doctors do firsthand. “I got better, process. you never know what’s going to happen. There were and it made me want to do that for someone else,” she “The reaffirmation of accreditation with no definitely some frantic calls with my parents, but luckily said. “I was really inspired by the grace with which my recommendations translates to a clean bill of it worked out.” doctor led her team and how much time and energy she health for the university,” said MUSC President She matched with her first choice, Brooke Army invested in my treatment.” David J. Cole, M.D., FACS. “The reviewers Medical Center in San Antonio, Texas. “I’m super Her parents, both in the military themselves, told us they were especially impressed with how excited to be going there,” she said. “Their program encouraged her to pursue her dreams. “I told my MUSC’s faculty, staff and students reflected our reminds me a lot of MUSC. I really felt comfortable there.” See Match on page 10 See SACSCOC on page 10

Health Landscape Women’s History Month 11112 Around Campus A new community health needs Four women are recognized for 4 Dental Medicine hosts event assessment sheds light. their contributions. 1111 6 8 11115 Meet Savannah Galloway LIKE US Medical University of South Carolina — FOLLOW US @ Catalyst_MUSC 2 THE CATALYST, March 17, 2017 Around Campus PEOPLE EVENTS Patricia Blanton Patricia L. Blanton, Law Day 5K Race The Charleston School of Law will DDS, interim dean, host the second annual Law Day 5K James B. Edwards race at 10 a.m., Saturday, March 18 at College of Dental Hampton Park. The event will benefit Medicine, was the American Cancer Society and Share named among six Our Suzy Lowcountry at the request of women as part a beloved law professor the school lost of the American recently to breast cancer. Registration is Dental Association’s $20 and begins at 9 a.m. Lucy Hobbs Project. The award honors dentists who set new benchmarks in Donations for Prom Boutique dentistry. Blanton was a former vice Every year Palmetto Goodwill locations president of the ADA and is a recipient accept donations of gently used prom of the Industry Icon Award. She was photo by J. Ryne Danielson dresses for their Prom Boutique, a pop- previously the first female president of up shop created to make prom dresses Construction continues on the MUSC Apple Store. Slated to open on the the Texas Dental Association and served more affordable to area students. The first floor of the Colbert Library in the spring, the campus tech store will as president of the American College of Boutique will open March 18 from 11 offer Apple and Dell products and feature a health care innovation space Dentists. a.m. to 3 p.m., Goodwill Community modeled after Apple’s “Genius Bar.” Service Center in North Charleston.

Connie Guille Chanita Hughes-Halbert Ed Wilson Cocktail dresses will be sold for $14.99 Connie Guille, Chanita Hughes– M. Edward Wilson and ball gowns for $19.99. Proceeds M.D., assistant Halbert., Ph.D., M.D., professor in will benefit Palmetto Goodwill. Donate professor, in the SmartState the Department of formal dresses, shoes, handbags and Department of Endowed Chair in Ophthalmology, accessories to any Palmetto Goodwill Psychiatry and Cancer Disparities was presented location until March 18. Visit Palmetto Behavioral Sciences, and professor in with the Life Goodwill’s website to schedule a pickup. was recently the Department Achievement inducted into the of Psychiatry and Award from the Faculty Senate Town Hall American College Behavioral Sciences, American Academy of Psychiatrists. was elected to the of Ophthalmology. Join the MUSC Faculty Senate for a The ACP is comprised of more than 750 board of directors Wilson, who was the former director Town Hall from 12 to 1 p.m., Thursday, psychiatrists who have demonstrated for the South Carolina Institute of of the Storm Eye Institute, has worked March 23, eighth floor, Storm Eye excellence in the field of psychiatry and Medicine & Public Health. Halbert is a closely with the AAO for more than Auditorium. The WestEdge project and achieved national recognition in clinical nationally recognized expert in cancer 30 years. The academy is the world’s MUSC’s involvement in this exciting practice, research, academic leadership or prevention and control among diverse largest association of eye physicians and vision for downtown Charleston will be teaching. populations. surgeons. the topics of discussion.

The Catalyst is published bi- THE CATALYST monthly. Paid advertisements, which RECYCLEMANIATRIVIA - WEEK 7 do not represent an endorsement by MUSC or the State of South Carolina, "Which 3 categories of recycling material did MUSC Editorial Office are handled by Island Publications MUSC Office of PublicAffairs & Inc., Moultrie News, 134 Columbus win "#1 in the state"for in RecycleMania 2016" Media Relations, 135 Cannon St., Charleston, S.C., 843-958-7480 or Street, Suite 403C, Charleston, SC 843-937-7489. E-mail: advertising@ 29425. moultrienews.com. 843-792-4107 Respond to Fax: 843-792-6723 recycle@musc .edu Editor: Cindy Abole for a chance to win a [email protected] MUSC prize MEDICAL UNIVERSITY Last Week's Answer: Scott, Robert, Michae l, Wesley, of SOUTH CAROLINA mu sc.edu /gog ree n Dav id, Martin, and Jason are all part of the recyc lin g crew. Go~en 3 THE CATALYST, March 17, 2017 Interns promote March as National Nutrition Month

BY MARISSA URDA selected at the end of the month to win [email protected] the grand prize. To provide ideas, encouragement March is National Nutrition Month, and fun with the challenge, the and each year the Academy of Nutrition interns, along with Sodexo executive and Dietetics promotes healthy lifestyle chef Tim Wickey, will host cooking changes using an engaging theme to demonstrations each week outside each emphasize its focus. This year, the cafeteria. These demonstrations will MUSC dietetic interns are challenging feature simple, easy–to–prepare recipes the staff and students to “Put Your Best focusing on one of the five food groups: Fork Forward” and encouraging them to vegetables, fruits, grains, protein and take a stab at new eating habits. dairy. Demonstrations will be held on Most people eat the same foods day Wednesdays outside the ART cafeteria in and day out and can easily fall into a and Thursdays in the Children’s food rut. And despite the prevalence of Hospital lobby at 11:30 a.m., noon and diet — related diseases, three–quarters of 12:30 p.m. There will be food samples, Americans eat too few fruits, vegetables, recipe cards and a featured low–calorie whole grains and low fat dairy, as well beverage available to encourage the as too much oil, sodium and processed switch from sweet drinks to less sugary foods. National Nutrition Month ones. The interns will also be at the encourages using the fork as a tool to Urban Farm on March 16 from 12:15 make healthy, simple and sustainable p.m. to 12:45 for the third Thursday food choices while adding variety to Lunch and Learn, discussing new ways to the diet. This may involve trying some try whole grains and incorporate fiber. alternatives such as a low–calorie Check out Yammer and beverage, ethnic food, new recipe or a Facebook (www.facebook.com/ different cooking method. MUSCFoodandNutrition) for daily tips To better gauge whether there is room along with video clips of the interns and in an person’s diet for improvement, MUSC’s registered dietitians to see what the interns are employing an online, they like to eat most. To link to those interactive challenge that lets videos, recipes, calendar of events and participants assess if they are eating the the complete details on the challenge, recommended servings from each food including step-by-step instructions, visit group, track progress during the month http://www.muschealth.org/nutrition/ and get ideas on how to add more of mindful/best-fork-forward.html. the better choices. Participants can join the challenge by signing up at www.

SuperTracker.USDA.gov and joining PUT YOUR the group NNMatMUSC or by entering .:fl#

BY THERESA S. GONZALES, M.D. Left photo: Dental [email protected] students, armed with pre-appraised evidence, The James B. Edwards College of Dental Medicine take on faculty eminence held its second annual Evidence-Based Dentistry — at Cannon Park in Stand Down Day and Senior Competition on Feb. 9 at downtown Charleston. the Baruch Auditorium. This capstone event included Bottom photo: Students lectures by participating faculty from the College of search for evidence to Dental Medicine and College of Pharmacy with direct answer questions from support from Library Services. patients. Interim Dean Patricia Blanton opened the event with a discussion of how evidence informs contemporary Photos by Anne Thompson health care across health care delivery portals. She praised the students’ participation and opined that the primary goal of evidence-based dentistry is the assurance, through reference to high-quality evidence, that care provided is optimal for the patient and treatment options are presented in a manner that allows for fully informed consent. “As we transition toward broad-based use of evidence- based dentistry approaches in clinical practice, we stand triumphed over eminence – as it usually does. to benefit from a better understanding of how it can The final event of the day was the coveted Dean’s improve patient outcomes,” she said. “What we want is Cup Competition, which consisted of team play with to provide students with lifelong learning skills that will five standardized patient experiences. The objective enable them to keep up to date during their expected 30 was to arrive at the correct diagnosis and deploy the to 40 years of practice.” evidence-based treatment for the patient. A total of The day-long program provided instruction in the 250 points were in play — 50 points per case — for the evidence acquisition process and scope of materials that competition round. Twelve teams were randomized, and are readily available for our developing clinicians. At the competition began. The completion was fierce and lunch, a spirited “eminence versus evidence” tug of war deliberate. The results were tabulated, and two teams took place between participating faculty and members tied for the lead: Team Hotel and Team India – each of the CODM Class of 2017. Not surprisingly, evidence scoring 237 out of a possible 250 points.

Team H team members Melinda Lee, Maggie Livingston, Heather Wright, RECOGNITION FROM THE WHITE HOUSE MEDICAL UNIT Mary Machowski and Brantlee Tinsley

MUSC was recently recognized for Team I team members outstanding achievement in support Aaron Gavri, Laura Koberda, Casey Bennett, Jill Eaves of the White House Medical Unit and and Jon Chay WHITE HOUSE MEDICAL UNIT The President of the United States. • MUSC was notified by Dr. Ronny L. Blanton was ecstatic with the results. “The fact that Jackson, Physician to the President and the 12 teams provided 80 percent (200 out of 250) of Chief White House Physician since the correct diagnoses and deployed the highest levels of 2013. The White House Medical Unit evidence to support the requisite clinical management is responsible for the medical needs strategy was impressive. The routine integration of of White House staff and visitors. evidence–based dentistry principles with patient care The unit provides medical care to the is a cornerstone of the ongoing curriculum review President, Vice President, their families process at the College of Dental Medicine. Events like FOR OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT this are designed to enhance our ability to care for our IN SUPPORT OF THE WHITE HOUSE MEDICAL UNIT AND and international dignitaries visiting THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES the White House. MUSC Health has patients by developing clear and efficient strategies to worked and coordinated with the White sift, digest, and act on new research with the potential to Given on the I'J'"of February 2017 House Medical Unit for years. benefit those entrusted to our care. I am so very proud of these young professionals and their commitment to Photo provided excellence.” 5 THE CATALYST, March 17, 2017

MEET SAVANNAH Peggy Schachte Research, Developing Scholars awards due April 1

Nominations for the Peggy Schachte Research Award and the MUSC Foundation Developing Scholars Award both of these awards are due by April 1.Nomination guidelines for the Schachte Research Award are at http://tinyurl.com/ jqsc3p6 and Developing Scholars Award at http://tinyurl.com/hr7wpbw.

Savannah Galloway

Department; How long at MUSC Developmental Behavioral Pediatrics; 4.5 years

How you are changing what’s possible at MUSC My amazing medical director, Dr. Angela LaRosa, includes me in a variety of quality improvement and research projects which improve the care we provide to our patients.

Pets and their names I have two pugs, Penny, 9, and Olive, 3. I also foster puppies every week so there’s usually one more running around the house.

Person at MUSC who has inspired me Dr. Angela LaRosa, M.D.

Last book read “Calling Me Home” by Julie Kibler

Food that’s a must have in the pantry Texas Pete Hot Sauce and Sriracha

Words of advice “Here I am, rock you like a hurricane.” — Scorpions 6 THE CATALYST, March 17, 2017 Tri-county Health Landscape plants seeds

BY MIKIE HAYES and environmental issues that affect a [email protected] person’s life. For instance, being exposed to crime, violence or social disorder, or “I’m afraid I’m going to die before even the perception that safety at home I grow up,” shared one teen, her voice or in one’s neighborhood is at risk, can quivering. Others followed suit, uneasily affect the physical, mental and emotional admitting they too had similar fears health of a person or even an entire about being killed or physically harmed. community. That was really hard to hear, said According to the 2016 Tri-county Anton Gunn, referring to what he Community Health Needs Assessment, learned from a group of Tri-county a joint publication recently released by teenagers who shared their personal MUSC Health, Roper St. Francis and Photoss provided feelings about crime in the Charleston the Trident United Way, violence and Representatives of MUSC, Roper/St. Francis, TUW, city and county area for a community health needs bodily injury ranked fifth on the list of officials, and local organizations attended the launch of Healthy ri-T assessment (CHNA). CHNA health priorities. county at a networking breakfast Jan. 31 at the Arthur W. Christopher Gunn, MUSC Health’s chief diversity While it was shocking to have that Community Center. They discussed the findings of the report and officer and executive director of subject be so present on their minds, discussed next steps. community health innovation, served Gunn said, it was those types of honest in the Lowcountry. Since that building health challenges, even though they’re as MUSC’s lead representative on the and revealing comments from members healthy communities is a pillar of not a health agency. That’s valuable CHNA advisory workgroup. He said that of the community that were critical to MUSC’s Imagine 2020 strategy for the information.” experience with the community youth putting together an accurate depiction future, he believes this is one such way to Leveraging those insights was really affected him. of the Tri-county health landscape. get the process and discussion moving in important to Gunn. “So we interviewed “One of the stark realizations I walked Gunn, who has 20 years of experience the right direction. them and asked from their vantage away with after this initial assessment conducting community health MUSC Health, Roper St. Francis and points what was the sum of the process was how prevalent violence and assessments, was adamant that a large the Trident United Way led the effort, challenges related to health of the people injury prevention were on the radar swath of community members needed and representatives began to meet last coming through their doors. They gave screen. We always knew that it was an to be integral to the process. When the spring to devise a strategy to take a us a tremendous amount of feedback. issue, but to hear young adults in a focus previous Charleston assessment had been realistic snapshot of the health situation And when you looked at both groups group basically say they were afraid they conducted three years earlier, part of in the Tri-county region. They initiated — service providers and community wouldn’t even get a chance to grow up – the strategy was to interview people who focus groups, held community forums residents – the answers they identified as that hit me hard,” he said. deliver health care in the community and conducted surveys and interviews. their top health issues were very similar. He attributed it to a recent uptick in — which amounted to predominantly What resulted was they had five times In fact, it was very surprising to see how murders and violence in Charleston’s physicians. For Gunn, that didn’t the number of people participating in similar they were.” Tri-county area that has taken a toll on represent a true needs assessment. the process than they did three years ago the mental and emotional well-being of “When I came to MUSC in 2015, the and are building what they believe will people throughout these communities, first thing I asked for was our community FINDINGS be productive partnerships. “We spent At the first forum they conducted, 120 fueling fear and frustration. High-profile health needs assessment. What I was a significant amount of time talking people representing 40 organizations crimes like the tragic murder of nine shown was not a CHNA. The only to community members – low-income, attended. The participants spent three people at Mother Emanuel AME Church people interviewed were physicians and people of color who receive health care hours discussing health challenges, and the police shooting of unarmed a few school-based nurses — they didn’t services,” Gunn said. “We also talked to services and how they would work citizen Walter Scott, not to mention 77 speak to any grassroots community people who work in community-based together. Rather than simply collecting murders and a spate of random violent members. I thought it was woefully settings and looked for intersections. information and concluding the process crimes that took place in 2016, have inaccurate to say these are the health For instance, let’s say this group runs by submitting a report of their findings, many on edge. needs of the community when you don’t a housing agency, and their program is they decided to treat the information When you think of social determinants ask anybody in the community what focused on people who have just been they would collect as a starting point, so of health, violence might not be the first they’re concerned about in terms of their evicted from their homes and need to collectively, they could have a significant thing that springs to mind. Yet research health and well–being.” find transitional housing. When they impact on the health of the community. concludes that health encompasses so This time, the committee took the meet with a family, they learn nobody in Right off the bat, people knew much more than simply the state of process out into the community, and the family has health insurance coverage, something different was afoot — they one’s physical condition – it also takes the results of what they learned are, that their child is autistic and the father were encouraged. “When we finished into consideration a number of factors according to Gunn, a much truer had a double bypass. They see all these such as the personal, social, economic reflection of health needs and realities See Landscape on page 13 7 THE CATALYST, March 17, 2017 Hunger and obesity – two sides of the same coin

BY MIKIE HAYES CHNA advisory workgroup, applauds that approach. [email protected] “What we know is good nutrition, physical activity and healthy weight are critical to a child’s overall health and ead to Whole Foods on the way home from work, well-being and reducing their risk of developing diabetes Hand the store is buzzing with activity: buggies filled and other diseases no child should be dealing with,” with fresh kale and cut–to–order meats, people loading he said. “With 17 percent of our nation’s children up on artisan breads and containers of Mediterranean considered obese, we have a lot of work to do to help olives and busy moms grabbing healthy pre-made these kids. Our Heart Health Program is making real organic meals for dinner. But while that may be the strides in reaching a vulnerable population and building reality for some people in the Charleston area, that a healthier community. MUSC is committed to helping is far from the case for families on tight budgets who community members gain better access the resources instead of gourmet fare grab packs of hot dogs, cups of they need to live healthier lives and reducing barriers to noodles and giant boxes of sugary cereals, all of which doing so.” are cheap and go a long way toward filling a child’s According to the CHNA, 32 percent of South growling belly. Carolinians are obese. Charleston and Dorchester According to the 2016 Tri-county Community counties fared a tad bit better at 25 and 31 percent, Health Needs Assessment (CHNA), a joint publication respectively, but Berkeley County came in at a recently released by MUSC Health, Roper St. Francis whopping 37 percent. It’s no wonder children are and the Trident United Way, food insecurity is a struggling. growing problem in this state. In fact, 17 percent of Sometimes, Carter finds, the child is the only one in South Carolinians worry where their next meal will the family struggling with weight, but other times, it’s come from. And according to Janet Carter, registered pervasive throughout the household. Either way, it takes dietitian and MUSC Heart Health’s program manager, the entire family being on board to make long-term sometimes even when food is available, the quality is substantive changes. Parents are the biggest influencers poor with little nutritional value, which can lead to a Photo provided in children’s lives, especially related to dietary habits host of issues down the road. Kids in the MUSC Children’s Hospital’s Heart and modeling physical fitness, and family members can One CHNA focus group participant voiced her Health Program take time to play during a fitness often make or derail success. Carter and Flynn take frustrations, summing up sentiments shared by many. “I session on MUSC’s campus. a tailored approach, individualizing the program for try to buy fresh produce and avoid prepackaged foods,” on overall health. And in the Lowcountry, that’s no each child and family, based on the family’s unique she said, “but the cost is prohibitive, and I am forced small problem. Right now, the two of them work with challenges. They are all part of the journey. to purchase low-quality food when the money is getting about 300 kids and their families, most of whom deal For numerous reasons – many of which can be low.” with difficult decisions about food on a daily basis. painful and private – by the time these families arrive at The Harvard School of Public Health published a Carter said the issues run the gamut from families the program, they are usually ready for change. Offering study that reported a diet rich in healthy foods like not having enough money to purchase healthy foods to kind words and understanding rather than judgment is fruits, vegetables, nuts and fish costs about $1.50 more moms who don’t have experience preparing nutritious critical, Carter said. In the nearly 11 years she has been per day per person than a diet filled with lower-quality meals to kids who just flat refuse to eat fruits and running the program, she’s seen a lot of emotion. processed foods and refined grains. While that may vegetables. The dietitians counsel them on whatever “We’ve had many tears – both from the kids and the sound negligible, for a family of four, it amounts to just issues are obstacles to healthy eating. parents. Obesity, of course, is tied to many personal shy of an additional $2,200 a year – a serious burden “We have a lot of different families,” she said. issues. What we try to do is take the focus off the weight for many – especially in areas like Charleston County, “Many of the families we see are part of the minority itself and turn it to health and wellness. At the first where 26 percent of children live in poverty. community and underserved. Many times, they are just visit, we always say, ‘This is the only body you have – In addition to the financial costs are the health costs trying to get some food in, and they aren’t the healthiest right? We want to help you learn to take the best care of — serious chronic conditions that result from a bad diet. choices. There is both the perception and reality that it as possible.’ That’s the message we want to send.” Research shows that poor nutrition can lead to many healthy foods are more expensive to buy. That makes it To accomplish that, education geared to the entire diseases in children, among them pre-diabetes, high difficult for them and difficult to come up with ideas. family is key. “I call it ‘educating the room,’” said blood pressure and unhealthy cholesterol levels – even It’s also easier to buy the convenience foods and junk Carter. “Although we are focusing on the child, it’s in kids as young as 2. foods, and oftentimes, that’s more acceptable to the usually up to the caregivers to enact the changes, But Carter doesn’t need studies to tell her that; she kids. We work with them on how to access community especially with younger children. It’s not just the sees these statistics up close and personal. resources and on nutrition, shopping, food preparation; behavior part — it’s the education part that makes the At the Heart Health Program, which serves as the how to make good choices with the limitations they program successful.” pediatric weight management program of MUSC may have.” After a full assessment, where Carter and Flynn gauge Children’s Health and preventive cardiology service of Anton Gunn, MUSC Health chief diversity officer the family’s lifestyle habits and concerns, as well as their the Children’s Heart Center, she and fellow registered and executive director of community health innovation, diet, activity levels and potential challenges, they work dietitian Keely Flynn help the kids suffering with weight who also serves as MUSC’s lead representative on the issues and obesity and the subsequent negative effects See Obesity on page 14 8 THE CATALYST, March 17, 2017 Women’s History Month at MUSC Honoring trailblazing women in labor and business

Right photo: Phlebotomy coordinator Vera Brown is among four women being honored by MUSC for women’s history month. Brown has served the Medical University for almost four decades, having started as a unit secretary in 1978, and now supervises more than 20 employees. But interacting with patients is still her favorite part of the job.

Photo by J. Ryne Danielson

BY J. RYNE DANIELSON “I started as a unit secretary at to draw blood as part of her duties. known – managers like Jim Cook who Charleston Memorial Hospital in 1978,” “From typing to drawing blood, it worked with Brown at Charleston [email protected] Brown said. MUSC would eventually was different,” she said. “But it was a Memorial. buy Charleston Memorial in the early good experience. I must have liked it. I “He always had my back,” she ince coming to work at MUSC 2000s, but for decades, the county of eventually dropped typing and went to explained. “Whenever I went to him almost four decades ago, phlebotomy S Charleston paid MUSC to manage the phlebotomy altogether.” with a problem, I also tried to have the coordinator Vera Brown has seen facility, and MUSC medical students When Brown started, she wasn’t in solution to that problem. And we would doctors and administrators come and go; and residents gained valuable experience charge of anyone else. Or, as she puts work it out and present the solution she’s seen buildings torn down, built up there. it, “I was in charge of me.” Nowadays, together.” and torn down again; she’s seen patients She was transferred to MUSC proper she’s responsible for supervising and Brown said the most rewarding part get better and take turns for the worse. in 1996. “Back then, you went where scheduling around 20 employees, in of her job is the interaction she has with Those who know her say that through they sent you,” she said. addition to interacting with patients and patients. “You see the same patients it all she’s demonstrated poise and Though apprehensive about moving to drawing blood. day after day and get to know them by compassion, leading by example and a larger hospital, Brown said she quickly Her work ethic quickly ensured name,” she said. “I put myself in their always taking time to get to know the felt comfortable at MUSC. “The pay more responsibility. “I used to be the position. You never know what your life patients who come through her lab. wasn’t good at all, but it was more than outpatient phlebotomy coordinator, but is going to come to, so you have to treat March is Women’s History Month. I was making before. I tried to look at since the inpatient coordinator left, I’ve people the way you would want to be This year’s theme, chosen by the the glass as half full. Before I worked as a been helping with inpatients as well. treated.” National Women’s History Project, is secretary, I worked in fast food, so it was “I just can’t stand to see things not get That might mean holding a patient’s "Honoring Trailblazing Women in Labor a plus just getting into the hospital.” done,” she continued. “So, when I see hand if he or she is afraid of needles and Business." Only 24 years old when she started, something’s not getting done, I get up or finding something to talk about to Since the NWHP successfully lobbied she never thought she’d stay this long. and do it or try to do it together with distract them from their anxiety. “I’ll Congress and President Ronald Reagan After almost 40 years at MUSC, she’s someone else. I don’t like to be seen ask them, ’How many kids do you have? to recognize a month-long celebration learned to be philosophical about a lot giving orders, because who am I to tell Where are you from? Do you have any of women’s contributions to American of things. you what to do? So, I say, ‘Let’s do it pets?’ Just something to keep their mind science, art and culture in 1987, many “People complain about change,” she together.’” off what we’re doing.” pioneering women have received this said. “But you stay long enough, and Brown believes respect is earned and “It makes you feel good when a patient distinction: Susan B. Anthony, Harriet it’ll change back. Nothing ever stays the tells her employees, “If we’re busy, you remembers your name,” she said. Tubman, Sally Ride, Sandra Day same.” aren’t going home tired alone. We’re The flipside of that — and the hardest O’Connor. Many more – women like After working for a while as a unit going to go home tired together. It’s a part of her job — is occasionally watching Brown — go without such recognition, secretary, Brown eventually became a group effort.” patients’ conditions worsen. “You get to quietly and competently ensuring the clerk typist in Charleston Memorial’s It’s a leadership philosophy she know your patients, and when you see gears of modern life keep turning. hematology lab, where she had to learn learned from the best managers — she’s See Care on page 14 9 THE CATALYST, March 17, 2017 When an EVS employee gets the call, she answers

BY MIKIE HAYES members of patients in the Medical Intensive Care [email protected] Unit, where the Holy Spirit leads her, she goes. A motherly figure who punctuates every sentence “Gail, I need you to feed the people.” Gail Mungin, with contagious laughter, Ms. Gail, or Mama as many an employee in Environmental Services, heard God call her, has joy in large supply and shares it like a instructing her to do this during prayer. loving grandma with hard candy in her pocket. The “People? Now God, I don’t know about that,” she mere fact her heart is so open and she is so generous debated, worried about how she’d take on the task of has made her stand out in the eyes of her managers, feeding nearly 70 people. “I’ve never done anything like colleagues and patients. that before.” Mungin is one of four MUSC women making a He reiterated, she said. “Bring the food to the difference and being honored this year for Women’s people,” Mungin recounted, pounding her hand on the History Month. The theme, “Honoring Trailblazing table in rhythm. Women in Labor and Business” includes women who “And I did,” she said, “and we had a hilarious time. make a profound mark at their workplace in often We had the sweets to the meats to the starches,” she unrecognized ways. This year’s honorees represent many said, clapping her hands with a boisterous laugh. diverse backgrounds, and like Mungin, each stands out In fact, she ended up creating quite the smorgasbord for her special contributions to MUSC. for her EVS colleagues and has continued to cook Rebecca Priester, director of Environmental Services people’s homemade favorites at another seven events. for the main hospital, said she is so very honored to “I cook peas and rice, chicken and rice, candied yams, have her on the team. “Ms. Gail has the ability to make fried tilapia. Ooh, people love my tilapia. Turkey, wings, you feel important in her presence. She is one who mac and cheese, butter beans, corn on the cob.” would give her last penny if you needed it and a hug to She’s cooked for Christmas, Thanksgiving, make you smile. She is truly one of the strongest, honest Housekeeping Week, even Super bowl 51. Once she and most compassionate women I’ve known.” had a going-away party for one of the managers who Mungin is said to arrive every day with a smile on moved to another shift. “The Lord said, ‘Anybody who her face, joy in her heart and an unwavering faith that works like that needs to be appreciated.’” inspires those around her. Melanie Scianna, RN, relief When things need to be done, the “man upstairs” staff leader in the MICU, is a big fan of Mungin. She doesn’t hesitate to call on Gail Mungin. While that nominated her for employee of the month last year, Photos provided may involve cooking, checking on a grieving neighbor, which Mungin won. EVS employee Gail Mungen, right, gets a hug from shopping for the less fortunate or praying with family “What sticks out about Gail is that she is MICU nurse Melanie Scianna. hardworking, gives more than she expects in return, always has a cheerful heart, and has a kind word for everyone she comes in contact with. She is truly a blessing to our institution,” Scianna said when she learned of this recent honor. In about a month, Mungin will reach the 29-year mark at MUSC, and it’s clear to see how much she loves her job, said John Lawyer, first shift assistant director of EVS in the main hospital. “Gail is a one--of- a-kind. She loves to do special things for people.” Ulysses Jones, second and third shift assistant director of EVS in the main hospital, agreed. “Ms. Gail is a winner,” he said emphatically. “A quitter never wins the game and a winner never quits the game. Ms. Gail always wants to display excellence in what she does as an EVS team member. I am proud to have her on our team,” he said. Mungin, Lawyer explained, is the evening freshener for patient rooms on the fourth, sixth and seventh floors in MUSC’s main hospital. “She is our meet-and- greet person – our second shift personality.” Every afternoon, he said, she looks in on the patients, Gail Mungen takes a break from cooking and serving with Trenee’ Brisbane during the Super Bowl LI party that she hosted for EVS coworkers. See Mama on page 14 10 THE CATALYST, March 17, 2017

MATCH Continued from Page One me,” she said. “They paid for the cost of my education and gave me a stipend. So parents I wanted to be a doctor, and they the financial stress of how I was going to rolled with it. There was no looking back pay back my loans wasn’t on my mind after that.” at all. I really could just focus on my To get exposure to medicine, Hamilton studies.” volunteered at a Red Cross clinic at the Angela Choi, M.D., one of Hamilton’s Fort Jackson Army Base, near where she mentors at MUSC, praised Hamilton’s grew up in Columbia, South Carolina. commitment to medicine as well as She was also accepted to a magnet high serving her country, and said she expects school program at Spring Valley High to see big things from her in the future. School that emphasized science and “I can’t say enough about her dedication, technology. passion and perseverance,” Choi said. After high school, Hamilton majored “She is one of the few medical students I in biology at Wofford College in the can think of who asked to come to work upstate, where she was a member of the with me during her vacation and time Minority Association of Pre-Medical off. She is organized and prepared, and Students, a pipeline program for the she is not afraid to accept a challenge. Student National Medical Association. She touches all those she meets. The Though being in the military has women under her care will be lucky to added to the already hectic pace of have her as their physician.” medical school, Hamilton believes the Hamilton is looking forward to leadership skills she developed in the celebrating Match Day with her fellow military have made her a better doctor. students March 17. She’s glad the anxiety She also appreciates the way the military of actually matching is behind her. encourages interprofessionalism. “Being “I still get the envelope,” she said, “I in the military has been a great benefit to just already know what it says.”

SACSCOC Continued from Page One commitment to innovation and collaboration, two of MUSC’s core values.” The second role of the onsite reviewers was as consultants to MUSC regarding its Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP) titled “Team Up for Better Health.” The QEP is a required element of SACSCOC accreditation. “Even without this requirement for accreditation, we would embrace the QEP initiative since it aligns perfectly with the goals of Imagine MUSC 2020, our institution’s strategy for the future,” Cole said. “Team Up for Better Health is a set of activities and initiatives that will improve students’ practical, applied teamwork skills, and, thereby, help our graduates be even more marketable to employers and more competitive for prestigious residencies and fellowships. Team Up for Better Health will also help improve the practice of effective teamwork across the clinical and research missions,” he noted. SACSCOC standards reflect a broad range of expectations for institutions of higher education including effective governance, appropriate stewardship of financial and physical resources, adequate faculty and staff (all with appropriate qualifications), protection of academic freedom, sufficient faculty development opportunities, progress in the research mission, evaluation of all employees, effective student support services, sufficient library resources, and indices that the institution engages in continuous quality improvement through systematic evaluation of performance against its mission. “Preparing for our reaffirmation of accreditation, which is critical to our mission as an institution of higher education, was indeed a collaborative effort across the enterprise,” Cole said. “Special thanks and recognition go to Dr. Suzanne Thomas for leading MUSC through the process and to Dr. Jeff Borckardt for leading Team Up for Better Health. “We should all be proud of this accomplishment and what it means for us in terms of the ability to carry out our vision to lead health innovation for the lives we touch in the areas of education, research and patient care.” 11 THE CATALYST, March 17, 2017 Employee’s can-do spirit inspires others to give best

BY CINDY ABOLE the rapport she has with customers [email protected] and coworkers — it extends to others, even strangers, around the Tri-county For many customers, it’s the pleasant community. voice of Wanda Connor Blake who A native of Orangeburg, South answers when they call University Carolina, Blake grew up the middle child Transportation Services. Or if they’re of six children. Among her first jobs as lucky, they will meet the woman behind a teen, Blake worked as a weekend back– the desk with the great smile and up dispatcher for a local cab company. sparkling eyes ready to help them process The job was a good fit for her, Blake a maintenance check for their fleet truck remembers, as she already possessed or pick up a rental vehicle. some important job skills like being a Blake is one of the faces that represents good talker, quick thinker and organized a hard working team at University multi–tasker. After getting married, Transportation Services. This 30– she and her husband relocated to member group is comprised of shuttle Charleston where she worked in various bus drivers, couriers, dispatchers, jobs. She learned to drive and navigate vehicle maintenance personnel and around Charleston’s streets, and later, Photo by Cindy Abole administrative staff whose facility is she got a job as a school bus driver with Wanda Connor Blake, fourth from right, is joined by Leroy Smalls, from left, Ron located at 1786 Anthony Street in Charleston County Schools. Horry, Glenda Behrens, Alva Alston, Vanessa Hosey, Shanell Nole, Toni Jackson downtown Charleston. Never one to rest on her laurels, and Sonta Holmes — some of the shuttle bus drivers, couriers, administrative staff She is proud to have worked within she was always on the lookout for and vehicle maintenance personnel of MUSC University Transporation. the same department throughout her new opportunities and responded to 24–year career, albeit in different jobs. an opening for a shuttle bus driver at Weaving her way up through the ranks, MUSC. After several tries, she got the Blake began as a shuttle bus driver and job and in 1993, she started work on her later became a courier. Next she moved birthday — Feb. 15. She worked the day to the position of back up dispatcher, shift, with her schedule starting as early which led to her present day job as as 4 a.m. Then she drove her route until an administrative specialist in vehicle noon. maintenance. The schedule was tough for a mom Ask anyone who knows her and raising her three children — Sharon, they’ll attest to how Blake is dedicated Patrick and Christopher. She had help to her job, enjoys what she does and is from her friends Vanessa Rickenbacker committed to helping others. But her can-do spirit and dedication go beyond See Spirit on page 15 12 THE CATALYST, March 17, 2017

Public Safety’s Cpl. Rachel Miller, far A woman in a man’s world right, shares a light BY ALYSSA FRANCHAK but did not let deter her. moment with fellow [email protected] Since graduating with her associate’s Public Safety Officer degree, Miller has had an extensive Sgt. Ernest Brown, ccording to the FBI, in 2013, 88.4 career with a variety of experiences. from left, Officer Apercent of full-time law enforcement After graduating, she went to work at the Roosevelt McCargo officers nationwide were male. Sheriff Al Cannon Detention Center in and Officer Lee Rachel Miller is one officer who has North Charleston. Being in the booking Holbrook. not let that statistic slow her down. department, Miller was reaffirmed by Growing up in a military family, Miller seeing all the female officers that came Photo provided always knew she wanted to give back to in. her country but wasn’t sure how. “My Following her time at the detention dad was a submarine captain in the Navy. center, Miller moved to the Mount I think because my family moved around Pleasant Police Department, where she so much, I didn’t like the idea of being became certified as a police officer in accepted. “Midnights are quieter, but that in the military,” she recalled. 2000. While at Mount Pleasant PD, “When I got here, they explained that doesn’t mean we aren’t out there being It wasn’t until she enrolled in Trident Miller worked patrol, crime scene, and as it’s smaller and different, but I love that active. During the day, you’re reacting Technical College that Miller decided a field training officer. I’m with the people all day long,” said to calls, whereas at night, you have to be criminal justice was her path. “Law After nine years, Miller was looking Miller. patrolling and visible because we act as a enforcement gave me a way to give back for a change. With Mount Pleasant PD, Miller has since moved up from a deterrent for crime,” said Miller. to my country and my community but she was mostly in a patrol car waiting for public safety officer to corporal, which She and her team also have to help still have control of my personal life,” she calls to come in, but she wanted to be entails being a shift supervisor. Miller any time a potential safety issue brings said. immersed in the community population. currently works the midnight shift, a patient to the Trauma Center. When The decision to enter a field that was, In 2009, Miller was presented with supervising six officers and a security a victim of a gunshot, stabbing or other and still is predominantly male, was an opportunity to work in MUSC’s officer who works at Harborview Office something that Miller took into account Department of Public Safety and Tower. See Woman on page 15 13 THE CATALYST, March 17, 2017

programs. He told them they could be part of the LANDSCAPE Continued from Page Six end of February in a temporary location near the old Charleston Memorial Hospital, and they are working solution. collaboratively to build a facility in North Charleston. “If employers participate, a better job can be done to that meeting, I had several people come up to me and The other roadblock Gunn said community members ensure these people have better access to health and do say things like, ‘I’ve worked in the Tri-county region face is an inability to obtain preventive services for a better job. I explained that screenings, primary care, for 20 years, and I’ve been working on health issues preventable diseases – No. 3 on the CHNA list. “They insurance coverage — all can help lower the cost. More that entire time, and never have I seen all these people can’t get routine disease screenings, and they can’t specifically, nutrition and physical activity can reverse and groups in one room at the same time to talk about get scheduled immunizations,” Gunn explained. “We diabetes. I told the employers that if they build a culture the health needs in the Tri-county.’ There was a lot of can’t detect or prevent disease when people don’t have of health in their organizations, talk about health, excitement.” access to screenings. It can be as simple as a flu shot encourage their people to be physically active and make It also came to light that very few partnerships or as complex as an oral, cervical or prostate cancer it easy for them to exercise or be more active at work, focused on health existed in the community. There screening.” they can create more productive employees and improve seemed to be a great deal of duplication of services, their health, which in the end, contributes to building a Gunn said, and the left and right hand not knowing healthy community.” what the other was doing. This, he added, resulted in END GAME Gunn said because the report was basically just the organizations not helping other organizations achieve Women Scholars lntttattve's beginning — the real work starts now: developing a plan their goals. That, he hopes, would soon be changing. 2017 Emtnent Scholar Award Rectptent to improve the health and well-being of people in the The health issues that emerged as priorities were Tri-county by 2025. Nancy Hopktns, PhD not a surprise at all, Gunn said. “It doesn’t take five PRO] I ...,()R] \II Rill'- \I"'"\{ Ill '-I 1 '" 1, ...1111 11 OI Tr ( 11,01 (){ ', 1)1 l'\RI \[I'- I 01 H101 ()(,, MUSC Health, Roper St. Francis and Trident minutes working in health care to know that mental United Way held a meeting on Jan. 31 to kick off health issues are going to be a top concern for people in “Healthy Tri-county” — the new multi-sector initiative the community. It’s also not going to be hard to identify to improve health outcomes in Berkeley, Charleston that access to health services is a challenge in this and Dorchester counties — and release the CHNA community — no matter who you are.” report to the public. They had 127 people representing Access, in fact, took No. 1 on the list of priorities 78 organizations attend the launch, including MUSC THURSDAY, MARCH 23 RD that need to be addressed. The CHNA highlighted that President David Cole, M.D., FACS, and MUSC Health 11:00AM - 12:00PM people in the community suffer with several common CEO Patrick Cawley, M.D. HOLLINGS CANCER CENTER, ROOM 120 access points when it comes to receiving health care Gunn said Healthy Tri-county will be an ongoing Dr. Hopkin s has foc used h er career on ca ncer research for 40 years, identifying services. Gunn explained, “There are the uninsured – tumor h eterogeneit}' assoc iat ed wi th treatment resistance, developing met hods of process. “We are still effectively building the plane — inscnional muragencsis in zebrafish, and isolat ing > 550 dc, ·elopmcn tal muta t ion s the ‘I can’t afford to go get treatment because I don’t with human analogs. S he is a m e mb er of the Nation al Academ y of Science Hea lth and for where we take off and what we do. We are going Med icine D ivisio n (previously the In stit u te of Medicine), a fellow of th e American have coverage. Or, maybe I have coverage, but I can’t Aca demy of Art s and Scie nc es, and pre vious w inner of the ~fD Anderson Canc er to collaborate, and we are going to work for collective afford the copays and deductible, so I might as well Center Margaret L. Kr ipke Award. impact — that’s the key word. We want to be part of a not have insurance because I can’t afford to go to the In additi o n , sh e ha s b een ex te n si\'el y in "o lve d in e qu a li zi ng th e st a tu s of w om en facult y collective strategy, if you will, on how we can leverage and is c re dit ed w ith laun c hin g a n ati o n a l re-exa min ati o n o f ge nd er bi as in aca d emi a, doctor.’ Then there are the people who are afraid – m a kin g h er a n id ea l recip ient of thi s award c el ebr atin g exc ept io n a l w o m e n sc hol a rs. our power, our resources and what we already do to afraid because they have immigration issues or don’t have a collective impact on health in the Tri-county ALLfaculty, staff and students are welcome to attend want to hear bad news. And then there are those Please emat! Rachel Corbett at ws11nfo@musc edufor questwns region. who don’t have transportation or a doctor in their “The goal is,” he continued, “that by the time the community. Access is clearly a challenge.” committee does the next CHNA, one of the top issues Mental health issues, which landed the No.2 spot is no longer on the list – but we can talk about the ~MUS C on the list, are among the most common of all diseases MEDICAL UNIVERSITY impact we had on it.” and the No. 1 cause of disability in the United States, of SOUTH CA ROLI NA “The main thing is,” he continued, “now we know according to Healthy People 2020. COLLEGE OF HEAL TH PROFESSIONS where our community is and what our health challenges Anxiety, depression, eating disorders and attention Invites you to our are: Access; mental health; clinical preventive services; deficit and hyperactivity disorder are common among MASTER OF SCIENCE maternal, infant, and child health; injury and violence; IN children 13 to 18 years old. Just over 20 percent — or 1 and oral health make up the Top 6 list. The question is HEALTH INFORMATICS in 5 children — according to the National Institute of how can MUSC as an organization band together and Mental Health, currently has or have had a debilitating be more integrated and collaborative to address these LUNCH 'N LEARN disorder. In adults, 18 percent suffer from a range of broad-based needs? Because again, there is a role that we & WEBINAR mental health issues, a statistic that does not include all can play, if we’re really here to deliver health. How Lear n abo ut the College's on line pr ogram for work ing substance abuse disorders. The CHNA noted that pr ofess ionals w ith a backg rou nd in hea lth care or informa tion techn ology. effective can we be if we don’t have a way to deliver alcohol or drug abuse, violent or self-destructive health to the broader community – not just inside the Tuesday, March 21, 2017 behavior and suicide are also considered measurable four walls but outside of the four walls.” 12:00-1:00pm indicators of a community’s mental health. Gunn shared those thoughts at a recent Charleston College of Health Professions Gunn said that MUSC Health and the other area Regional Business Journal Power Breakfast. In his 151 Rutledge Ave hospitals are establishing a crisis stabilization unit for remarks, he explained how diabetes and other health Building A: Room 102 mental health as a way to provide more standardized conditions are costing Lowcountry employers millions Brin g your lunch. Drink s and des sert s pro vided . treatment for mental health issues and keep people of dollars in lost productivity — predominantly because Quest ions? Please contact Lauren Dickerso n at (843) 792 -2115 or me\too l@musc edu out of emergency rooms. It’s scheduled to open at the of limited access to health care and a lack of preventive RSVP: www.musc.edu/chp/MSHI/ 14 THE CATALYST, March 17, 2017

OBESITY Continued from Page Seven physical activity. The same holds true The Heart Health Program also and Type 2 diabetes are serious diseases for adults. Heart Health offers a total of created a fitness video of local children these kids could be facing – if they aren’t on small, incremental steps toward 12 exercise sessions per week, Monday exercising at local landmarks, like the already – if they don’t make changes. We improvement. through Saturday, and Carter also South Carolina Aquarium and the USS are serious about putting our patients “We let them control how fast things encourages the kids to play team sports, Yorktown, and Carter hopes to be able to first and helping to build healthy families. move along. If they take too big of a step, get outside and play and go for walks. make copies for all program participants Every time one of the kids is successful nine times out of 10, they are going to fail For some families in the Tri-county to provide yet another option for exercise. with the goals he or she set or shaves or just quit. We have to take into account region, however, that is easier said than “Obesity, hypertension, high cholesterol points of his or her BMI is a win.” the motivation and ability of families to done. One of the participants in the make changes based on their barriers. We CHNA said her neighborhood is not safe work with them on an individual level to to walk – a common complaint in parts help them fix as much as they possibly can of the Lowcountry where sidewalks, lights at a pace they’re comfortable with. These or crosswalks are in short supply. Some of are small but steady steps toward better the busier areas are considered downright health.” dangerous for pedestrians. Carter further The stakes for these kids are high; pointed out that a number of families in Carter has seen many children come her program don’t feel safe walking on through the doors with Type 2 diabetes. their neighborhood streets due to crime, South Carolina ranks an alarming 10th another issue that surfaced during the is confidentia l. no-cost resear c h study in'V'Olves a phone screen. a c lini ca l highest in the nation in the percentage of CHNA interviews. assessment visit & a tv1RI scan visit. If quafified , compensation is provided. people with diabetes and approximately 1 Challenging circumstances require MUSC in 8 black South Carolinians has diabetes. Carter and Flynn to come up with .,_,, .• c..-..... It’s a vicious cycle that begins early. The functional alternatives so kids have IRB Num ber: Pro0004 37 19 Date Approved 7/ 1 5/20 16 goal of the program is to get the kids to the opportunity to be more active. a healthy body mass index (BMI) and Sometimes, they encourage them to play interactive video games like Just Dance help them improve their overall health MAMA Continued from Page Nine – reducing risks for diabetes and other if they are unable to get outside or to the health complications. Heart Health classes. There are also many removes any trash from the room and sees if they need anything. And while Carter is proud of the results they online videos and apps that can be very technically, those might be the duties of the job, what makes her special are the achieve. Every year, more than 50 percent helpful when exercise needs to be indoors. extras. of the kids improve their relative BMI “You often hear that video games are “I interact with the patients a whole lot. I sure do,” Mungin said. “The score and get closer to the “healthy zone” bad for kids, and if they are just sitting in families, nurses – everybody in there.” (under the 85th percentile BMI for age), one place for hours on end, they are. But She enjoys all the floors on which she works, but she has a soft spot for the she said. Part of that success comes from there are some really great active video MICU. “It’s a lot sick people,” she said. “I love going into the room and talking their push for physical activity. The games out there that offer a terrific way to with the patients – especially if they’re in need of prayer. The family will ask me CHNA noted that 4 out of 5 adolescents increase physical activity – even get them to say a prayer, and I encourage the family to hold on – to hold tight and God don’t get the recommended amount of huffing and puffing.” will do his work. They get inspired.” Lawyer said she has a very warm spirit. “The patients love her. The families love her. The nurses love her. Environmental Services loves her. And she will Brown said family is her greatest source Continued from Page Eight pray in a minute!” he said with an affectionate laugh. CARE of pride, and at the end of the day, it Last year, she felt led to cook Thanksgiving dinner for a family whose loved helps put everything else in perspective. them getting sicker, as opposed to getting one had been on the floor a long time. Members of the family had hardly left In his 1989 Women’s History Month better, that’s the hardest part about it.” the hospital. “I said to myself, ‘These people won’t even get to go home for proclamation, President George H.W. She tries not to dwell on it. “It’s just a Thanksgiving,’ because they’re so worried. So the Lord had me to feed the Bush spoke of service as the definition of part of life,” she said. group of them.” success. Brown takes comfort from her faith. She prepared a full Thanksgiving feast for all 12. They were understandably "Women have demonstrated their great She is a member of St. Matthews AME moved by her gesture of kindness. “You are just so special,” they kept telling her. love for this country and have made that church in Ravenel where she grew up. It’s no wonder patients look forward to her visits. “Sometimes they know love real by their engagement in the lives She’s involved with church leadership, my name, sometimes they’ll ask the nurses, ‘Where’s the lady from the second of others,” he said. “If any definition of serving on the missionary and steward shift?’ or tell them to get a message to me, ‘Tell her we thank God for her. She a successful life must include service to boards, and looks forward to church gave us prayer last night.’” others, countless women live successful book club, which meets every second At times, when she sees a patient in pain, she said God will tell her to pray. lives.” Wednesday. “The Lord will drop people in my spirit, and I’ll check on them. I’ll spend time With her decades of service to MUSC, Married for 36 1/2 years, Brown and with them. I’ll pray with them. Just whatever he tells me to do. I get worried her church and her family, he might have her husband John have three children, when I don’t see patients I’ve gotten to know, and they’re not in their beds. been speaking about Brown. all grown, and seven grandchildren. She When patients get better and go to the floor and see me, they’re excited, and drives her youngest granddaughter to I’m excited. That’s what excites me.” church choir once a month. 15 THE CATALYST, March 17, 2017

SPIRIT Continued from Page Eleven specialist in vehicle maintenance, working of employees who have continued to work with John Pigott and Doug Littlefield. at University Transportation Services for There, she interacts with employees 20 years or more. and Lula Mae Ward, who helped her with and departments and is responsible for “Through the years, we’ve managed the children. And as her children grew maintaining preventive and maintenance to be family to each other. We’ve lived older, she wanted to be home, especially records for MUSC’s fleet of vehicles that through each other’s life milestones and during the evenings. In 1995, she took a includes shuttle buses, vans, cars, pickup watched our children grow up together. job within her department as a courier. trucks, transport trucks, recycling and It’s a good thing,” Blake said. Although the job was more laborious than shredder trucks. She also coordinates Smart, giving, dedicated and a genuine her previous job, she worked days only rental vehicles, works with insurance lover of people is how coworker Sonta and no weekends, which was perfect for companies regarding accident claims for Holmes describes Blake. “She has so her family life as she managed as a single fleet vehicles, processes repair work orders many gifts to share from her heart,” said mother. with area vendors, and oversees building Holmes, whose son and daughter also At the same time, she realized that maintenance, among a whole host of grew up with Blake’s children. several of her coworkers, Lynn Bogan, responsibilities. Blake remarried in 2013. Looking Tracy Fleming, Michelle Lawton, Denise “I’m satisfied when a customer can get ahead, she hopes to retire in 2019 and Lee Robinson, Harriett Robinson and their work completed and the customer spend more time with her husband, Sonta Holmes shared something in is happy and their vehicle runs safe and Joe “C.J.” Blake, who works in dietetic common: They were all single working sound,” Blake said. services. She also plans to continue with parents with similar-aged children. Bruce Mills, facility manager in her hobbies of sewing, crocheting and And like the old Nigerian proverb engineering and facilities, works regularly quilting. For years she has donated her asserts, “It takes a village to raise a child,” with Blake in managing his department’s handmade burp cloths, blankets, hats, that same solution resonated with this fleet of 14 pickup trucks, a minivan and heating pads and dresses to MUSC, small core group of working moms. The MUSC Health-owned vehicles. Hollings Cancer Center, Roper Hospital, group of devoted coworkers committed “Wanda is pleasant, friendly and St. Francis Hospital, Jenkins Orphanage themselves to serve as a support system for Photo by Cindy Abole knowledgeable,” said Mills, whose and the Florence Crittenton Programs each other. They took turns watching and Transportation’s Wanda Connor Blake department is perhaps University of S.C., a home for pregnant teens and caring for the children. “It was hard, but shows off a “sew–as–you–go” quilt that Transporation’s largest customer base. single parents. She has sewn pillowcase we worked it out so that someone could she just completed. The quilt will be a “She’s helpful in providing a quick dresses that have been donated to aid check on the children as the other parents gift to her dear friend Ethel Robinson, response, especially when it relates to our organizations in Africa, Haiti, Honduras worked. We had each other’s back,” Blake 65, for giving Blake her first sewing operations and daily priorities. Working and other locations. said with a smile. machine following her graduation from with her has been great.” “I have a talent that I love to share and In 1998, Blake applied for another work Orangeburg–Wilkinson High School in Today, there are only about a handful give to others,” Blake said. opportunity — moving to administrative 1981. program, if we see something like that, we just leave do down the road,” praised Miller. WOMAN Continued from Page Twelve a note basically saying we saw it while patrolling and While pleased with her personal experiences, Miller secured it for them,” said Miller. is not naive about the stigma some people have against violent crime is brought to MUSC’s Trauma Center, Miller’s voluntary efforts extend beyond the walls of women in law enforcement. hospital security is notified and Public Safety must Public Safety. In November she, along with other female “There are some people who you just aren’t going respond. They control both the traffic going into the members of the department, put on weekly bake sales, to change the way they feel. I can’t change if someone trauma parking lot and the trauma door foot-traffic, which ended up raising more than $1,000. The women thinks women shouldn’t be in law enforcement, but I and they have officers in the waiting room helping with divided up the money to spread the generosity. They gave can control how I react to that. I just try to do my job security control. half to the MUSC Institute of Psychiatry children’s ward and do it well,” she said proudly. While instances such as helping in trauma cases through the purchase and donation of coloring books, Miller doesn’t see her career slowing down anytime are rewarding to Miller, she gets a great sense of colored pencils and other toys, and they gave the other soon. “I plan to finish out my career here at MUSC. I accomplishment from the smaller tasks as well. half to My Sister’s House, a local nonprofit that provides am very happy here, and I hope to advance within Public “Even the little things here, like helping someone services, programs and resources to empower domestic Safety. I’ve been blessed to be able to do a lot, and now I change a tire, someone who locked their keys in their violence victims. am ready to step into that leadership role and give back car, or, if someone needs directions – it is all important,” Miller has since taken a step back from her extensive to some of the newer people and be a positive influence she said. volunteering to focus on her academic career. When she on those who haven’t been in the field very long.” Miller’s job doesn’t stop there. She goes above and is not working, she is taking online courses to obtain beyond her required duties to help make MUSC as her bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. “I hope that safe as possible. One of her accomplishments has been will give me more of an opportunity to move up in my uson Twitter: the design and implementation of the Cautionary career,” said Miller. @Catalyst_MUSC Advisement program. Under this program, Public Safety One inspiration for Miller’s career growth aspirations officers leave notes if they notice something that could has been Major Delores Simmons. “Here you have a ~ Hashtag: put a civilian at risk of being a victim. woman who has reached the rank of patrol commander ~ #MUS( “We find doors open, keys in the locks, students and who is so respected. Seeing her day to day has leaving book bags and laptops in the library. Under this reinforced for me that is something I could potentially 16 THE CATALYST, March 17, 2017

Twenty_-Thira Annual MUWC BRINGS POSIES FOR PATIENTS THOMAS A. PITTS MEMORIA L~LECTURESHIP IN MEDICAL ETHICS

ETHICAL,LEGAL, AND SOCIALISSUES

Thursday, April 6, 2017 Natinnally renown ed speaker s includ e: Rob('rtJI.Blank, PhD Annelle Lcibing, PhD UniversicyofCanterbury,i\"ewZealand UniversitedeMontreal Dena Da\'iS, JD, PhD JasonKarlawish,MD LehighUniversityCollci;eof,\rtsandScicnccs UnivcrsityofPcnnsy lvaniaMcmoryCcntcr EleanorFuchs,PhD Pia Kontos,PhD YaleUniversitySchooloflJrama UniversityofTorontoSchool ofPublicHealth Jonathan Haines, PhD Jacobo l\lintzcr, ~D CascWcstcmRcscrvcSchoo lof~lcdicinc RoperSt.FrancisClinicallliotechnologyResearch Photo provided Institute Presented by the Medical University of South Carolina Members of the MUSC Women’s Club met recently to help out with their annual Posies lns1ituteoflluman Values in Health Care Somh Carolin a Cllnical and Transla1tonal Research lnstllute for Patients project. The ladies, who supplied the flowers and materials from their gardens and Office of Cont inuin g Medical Educatio n , College of Medicin e Supported by the M USC l'oundation

and area stores, gathered to create more than 235 flower bouquets to give to patients at the This activity has been approved for AMA PRA Category l Credits., main hospital, Children’s Hospital and ART. They also worked with the Volunteer Center Contact Information: (843) 876-4844; [email protected] volunteers to deliver the flowers to grateful patients.