HEALTHYpulse LIVING FOR THE SOUTH BAY

DOWNHILL RACER: FROM THE O.R. TO THE SLOPES HOLIDAY FESTIVAL THE SPIRIT OF THE SEASON

WINTER 2015 PRESIDENT’S LETTER Inspired Wealth Management For Inspired Living MAGAZINE

A Publication of the Torrance Memorial Health System 3330 Lomita Blvd., Torrance, CA 90505

DIRECTOR, PUBLIC RELATIONS SEIA MANAGES SEIA'S SOUTH BAY ADVISORY TEAM Ann O’Brien excels at customizing wealth management and investment strategies for families EDITOR and businesses. Jeanne Ricci

CREATIVE DIRECTOR PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT Angela Akers

FINANCIAL PLANNING SENIOR DESIGNER $5.0 Elena Lacey RETIREMENT PLANNING * COPY EDITOR Billion Diane Garrett in client assets PHILANTHROPIC AND FAMILY FOUNDATION MANAGEMENT *SEIA and its affiliates as of 5/15/2015 CONTRIBUTORS Diane E. Barber Rebeccah Glaser Forbes LA Business Journal Financial Times Carole Jakucs DEAR READERS, Top 100 Wealth Manager Largest Money Top 300 Registered James F. Mills in the U.S. Management Firms Ranked By Investment Adviser List Nancy Sokoler Steiner The holiday season is often the time of year to express gratitude. At Torrance Memorial 2015 Assets Managed 2015 2014 Laura Roe Stevens Medical Center, many individuals deserve recognition for all they do to support our mission. I would particularly like to acknowledge our dedicated and caring group of volunteers this PHOTOGRAPHERS year. Not only do more than 1,000 blue-jacketed Auxiliary members volunteer their time Jeff Berting inside the medical center, but each year Las Amigas volunteers work thousands of hours to for inquiries or a Kremer Johnson Michael Neveux make our community celebration—Holiday Festival—come to life. consultation please call Lauren Pressey Now in its 32nd year, Holiday Festival is the medical center’s premiere community event and VINCE A. DiLEVA Eric C. Pritz MANAGING PARTNER fundraiser. Please turn to page 42 to read more about this year’s events. As an independent, (310) 712-2320 (310) 712-2349 Charles C. Koones non-profit medical center, this gift of time to us is truly a gift to our community. Please join [email protected] [email protected] me in thanking our wonderful Las Amigas and Auxiliary volunteers for giving their time and MANAGING PARTNER energy to us all. Todd Klawin VINCE A. DiLEVA Eric C. Pritz ® ® ® MS, CFP , AIF , Senior Partner CFP , CMFC, Partner BRAND PUBLISHER Hannah Lee

Craig Leach President, Chief Executive Officer Torrance Memorial Medical Center

Riviera Village | 1815 Via El Prado, Suite 100 Redondo Beach, CA 90277 | (888) 789-8393 | (310) 712-2320 58 11th Street Hermosa Beach, CA 90254 LOS ANGELES | Orange County | Redondo Beach | Pasadena | Virginia Tel 310-376-7800 Fax 310-376-0200 moontidemedia.com $1,000,000 minimum portfolio *Registered Representative/Securities offered through Signator Investors, Inc. Member FINRA, SPIC, 2121 Avenue of the Stars, Suite 1600, Los Angeles, CA 90067, (310) 712-2323. SEIA, LLC and its investment advisory services are offered independent of Signator Investors, Inc. and any subsidiaries or affiliates CA INS. LICENSE VAD #OB84300, EP #0E55966. torrancememorial.org PULSE | 3 CONTENTS 42 24 32 30

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8 HYBRID SUCCESS 14 EAT YOUR VEGGIES 18 COLD VS FLU ON THE COVER Cath lab vs OR Showing kids how 19 ASK THE DOC to eat right 9 LOOK UP! Your healthy pregnancy Don’t be the next text 15 GEE, THANKS 20 CARING HOUSE neck victim Praise for Torrance Memorial A loving last home 10 WHEN TO GO TO THE ER Medical Center 22 CALENDAR 11 GET COVERAGE 16 DOCTOR’S ORDERS The hows & whys of insurance Deciphering discharge papers 44 FLASH 12 THE REASON IS YOU 17 FITNESS WEARABLES 50 END NOTE

Photographer Topher HEARTBEATS FEATURES Donahue captured Torrance Memorial‘s anesthesiologist Stanley Chang’s love for fresh 24 SHELLEY SMITH 26 HEALTHIEST 36 HAPPY 90TH BIRTHDAY! powder at CMH Galena in Staying in the game PERSON I KNOW Torrance Memorial: Exceptional British Columbia, Canada. 30 STEVEN & WEEG Stanley Chang, MD— health care, then and now heli-skiing convert THOMPSON 42 32ND ANNUAL Partners in health 32 WHEN DOCTORS HOLIDAY FESTIVAL 40 YPPA BECOME PATIENTS Join us in the big white tent Dr. Jerome H. Unatin’s eye- The next generation opening journey as a patient gives back

4| PULSE Winter 2015 EDITOR’S LETTER

CONTRIBUTORS Turning 65? On a Retiree Plan? Have Recently Become Eligible for Medicare?

LAURA ROE STEVENS Laura is a South Bay freelance writer, yoga teacher, budding novelist and mom of two adorable boys.

INNER PEACE, TWO WAYS CAROLE JAKUCS, RN, BSN, PHN Torrance Health IPA Can Help Carole is a freelance writer, certified public health nurse and Learn about Medicare and the different types of insurance plans available to you including Medicare HMO, ere in the South Bay, we’re in the midst of an unseasonably warm autumn, so for many, health/fitness enthusiast who Supplements (or Medi-gap), and Part D prescription plans. Attend THIPA’s monthly complimentary... the idea of winter sports is not top of mind. But chances are Torrance Memorial Medical writes for a variety of publications. Center anesthesiologist Stanley Chang, MD, the subject of this issue’s “Healthiest Person H I Know” article (page 26), has already planned his winter escapes. For most of us, being dropped from a helicopter onto a mountaintop and then urged to ski to the bottom does not a relaxing vacation make. But for Dr. Chang and his skiing partner Ramin Mirhashemi, MD, heli- Medicare skiing, as it’s called, is bliss. “It’s fantastic to be out in nature,” says Dr. Chang. “It’s very peaceful EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM doing your own thing—you have a sense of freedom. It’s very serene and meditative. We’re not 101 Moderated by Norman Panitch MD, Chairman, THIPA Physician Council thrill seeking by any means. We try to minimalize the danger, not seek it out.” Seating is limited. For those of you who prefer to seek inner peace in a comfortable room without the fear of avalanches, perhaps now would be a good time to remind you of the many different yoga classes To learn about the next event date or to make a reservation visit Torrance Memorial has to offer at both the Health Education Center in Torrance and the Center of www.thipa.org/Medicare101 or call 310-257-7239 Healthy Living (Malaga Cove) in Palos Verdes, including chair yoga, yoga basics, restorative yoga, NANCY SOKOLER STEINER * This is an Educational Program Not a Sales Meeting. yoga therapy and more. Offerings rotate throughout the year. For more information, see our Nancy is a freelance writer Doors open half an hour early for registration Complimentary meal will be provided Calendar (page 22), visit torrancememorial.org/classes or call 310-517-4711. specializing in health, medicine and human interest. Torrance Health IPA (THIPA) is a non-profit multi-specialty physician network and a division of Torrance Memorial Health System. Wishing you and yours a healthy—and peaceful—autumn and holiday season. Her work has appeared in THIPA has been serving the South Bay community for more than 30 years. Our members have access to high-quality and personalized Los Angeles Times Magazine, care from over 350 primary care and specialist physicians as well as the nationally recognized Torrance Memorial Medical Center. —The Editors Southbay Health and other publications. 1-310-257-7239 Need TTY services? Call 711 www.thipa.org 6| PULSE Winter 2015 THIPA Members: 1-866-568-4472

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10-12 lbs. 27 lbs. 40 lbs. 49 lbs. 60 lbs.

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TORRANCE MEMORIAL’S HYBRID OPERATING HYBRID ROOM OFFERS THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS FOR CARDIOVASCULAR PROCEDURES. SUCCESS WRITTEN BY NANCY SOKOLER STEINER | PHOTOGRAPHED BY JEFF BERTING any cardiovascular problems The hybrid OR is used to perform lar surgeon Amir Kaviani, MD. “Tor- Salman Azam, MD. “The results of the can be treated in the cardiac a full range of endovascular services, rance Memorial Medical Center was procedure were excellent, and she was catheterization lab—also including abdominal aortic aneurysm the first hospital in Southern California discharged home within a few days. Mknown as the cath lab— repair. It’s also used for carotid artery to create a hybrid lab in 2007, a radical Torrance Memorial Medical Center is where heart abnormalities can be stenting, a procedure in which a tube advancement in vascular surgery.” now at the forefront of cardiovascular corrected with minimally invasive or other device is used to expand the An even more advanced hybrid OR treatment options, performing THE NEW EPIDEMIC: TEXT NECK procedures. Other cardiac problems vital arteries that supply oxygenated was central to the hospital’s plans for cutting-edge procedures and surgeries require surgery in a traditional blood to the head and neck, thereby the Lundquist Tower. With the tower’s to provide the best outcomes for KEEP YOUR HEAD UP! operating room. Torrance Memorial reducing the risk of stroke. November 2014 opening, the new hy- patients with cardiac diseases. The Medical Center can do it all in a state- In the not-so-distant past, compli- brid OR paved the way for the medical state-of-the-art hybrid OR, TAVR WRITTEN BY REBECCAH GLASER of-the-art hybrid operating room at its cated heart procedures could only be center to become first in the South Bay procedure and the new Lundquist Lundquist Cardiovascular Institute: performed using open-heart surgery. to offer even more advanced proce- Tower are just a few examples of the n the early 2000s, it was carpal Center physical therapist Yolande Mavity, should be supported with a chair; put a Did you know The hybrid OR gives the hospital’s Today physicians use angiography, tak- dures such as transcatheter aortic valve dedication and commitment Torrance tunnel syndrome. Now a brand PT, MPT, GCS, LSVT. “Poor posture can pillow on lap or sit at a table to bring iPad Torrance Memorial vascular surgeons and interventional ing advantage of the pathways of the replacement, known as TAVR. Memorial has to its patients.” new technology-induced ailment also affect balance, causing cervicogenic or iPhone closer to your head, not bring- offers yoga and cardiologists maximum flexibility to arteries to reach the heart. TAVR enables patients once con- Iis plaguing America’s population: dizziness.” ing your head closer to your device.” Pilates classes? use the treatments most appropriate Rather than cutting into the body, sidered inoperable due to complex text neck. Sustained through extended Do the health risks caused by To ensure cervical spine health, refrain For more In addition to TAVR, an array for each patient. they can make a small nick in the skin medical conditions to undergo life- daily use of wireless devices, text neck is mediocre posture outweigh the from bending the neck or hunching over information, visit of vascular procedures are Over the past decade, medicine has to feed a thin, hollow tube—called a extending heart valve replacement. A estimated to affect as much as 79% of the benefits of technological convenience? to look at your device—your eyes can torrancememorial. performed in the hybrid OR. been rapidly moving away from maxi- catheter—into a nearby blood vessel. catheter is used to insert and precisely adult population. Since smartphone users spend about do the work just fine. Additionally, try org/classes or call Some of these include: mally invasive open surgery toward Threading the catheter along the position an artificial heart valve. A bal- Countless cell phone users who spend 2 to 4 hours (teenagers even more) neck and back strengthening exercises 310-517-4711. minimally invasive, catheter-based arteries to reach the heart, physicians loon is inflated inside the valve to cause a great amount of time hunched over their on their cellular devices, the debate is that focus heavily on posture and core • Repair of thoracic and abdomi- procedures. A hybrid operating room can access blood vessels and open it to spring open; with the passage nal aortic aneurysms (bulges in devices checking email, texts and phone only intensifying. In fact, according strengthening, such yoga and Pilates. You is set up for those sophisticated proce- arteries, open or replace valves, and re-opened, the heart can more easily the aorta at risk of bursting) calls are now complaining of severe upper to the Kaiser Family Foundation, can also try these stretches at home: www. dures, while also meeting the sterility correct heart defects. pump blood to the rest of the body. • Carotid artery stenting (open- back pain, chronic headaches and spine 8- to 18-year-olds devote an average tinyurl.com/TMMCergo. To ensure neck ing a blockage in the carotid and equipment standards of a tradi- “Having the imaging systems nec- One patient who underwent artery and placing a small tube curvature. Caused by improper support of of 7 hours and 38 minutes a day to mobility, it’s integral to cervical spine tional operating room. It allows pro- essary for angiography as well as the TAVR at Torrance Memorial Medical to keep the artery open) the head and poor posture, text neck can entertainment media. That’s more than health to engage in light stretching a few viders to perform high-risk, minimally equipment necessary for open incisions Center was 95 years old. “She was very • Peripheral angiography and lead to severe degeneration. “It also causes 53 hours a week. times a day, especially after a long stint at invasive procedures and switch to open gives us the ability to perform proce- symptomatic and very frail—not a intervention (diagnosing pain in the shoulders, hands, arms, and “Watch your children from an early the computer or bent over a cell phone. and treating blockages in surgery without moving the patient if a dures that require both modalities in good candidate for open heart surgery,” the arteries of the legs and numbness and/or tingling feeling in the age and introduce good posture as a Reap the benefits of having the world at dire complication arises. the most effective manner,” says vascu- says interventional cardiologist lower body). arms,” says Torrance Memorial Medical habit,” says Mavity. “Low- and mid-back your fingertips—but keep your head up!

For more information about treatments available at Torrance Memorial Medical Center or for referral to a heart specialist, please call 310-517-4700.

8| PULSE Winter 2015 torrancememorial.org PULSE | 9 HEALTH LINKS HEALTH LINKS GET COVERAGE OPEN ENROLLMENT FOR CALIFORNIA RESIDENTS TO PURCHASE INDIVIDUAL HEALTH INSURANCE POLICIES THROUGH COVERED CALIFORNIA BEGINS NOVEMBER 1.

s part of the Affordable Care through Covered California runs example, marriage or birth of a child) two amounts: 2.5% of your yearly Act, the federal government from Nov. 1, 2015 to Jan. 31, 2016. or loss of other health coverage. Job- household income OR $695 per developed a model called the Coverage begins Jan. 1, 2016. based plans must provide a special person ($347.50 per child under 18). AHealth Insurance Exchange If you don’t enroll in a 2016 plan enrollment period of 30 days. You’ll pay the fee on the federal income enabling Americans to purchase private by Jan. 31, 2016, you can’t enroll in a There’s no limited enrollment tax return you file for the year you health insurance through a network health insurance plan for 2016 unless period for Medicaid or the Children’s don’t have coverage. Most people will of exchanges. California’s exchange is you qualify for a special enrollment Health Insurance Program (CHIP). file their 2015 returns in early 2016. called Covered California (coveredca. period—a time outside of the open You can apply any time. There’s also Torrance Memorial Medical com). The plan benefits are defined enrollment period during which you no limited enrollment period for Center and Physician Network in four basic groups (bronze, silver, and your family have a right to sign small businesses to enroll in the Small has contracted with Blue Shield of gold, and platinum), making it easy to up for health coverage. You qualify Business Health Options Program California PPO and Anthem Blue compare plans. Open enrollment for for a special enrollment period 60 (SHOP) coverage for their employees. Cross PPO. Consumers should check legal California residents to purchase days following certain life events that If you don’t have coverage in with their physician to confirm his or EMERGENCY OR URGENCY? individual health insurance policies involve a change in family status (for 2016, you’ll pay the higher of these her participation. URGENT LEARN WHEN TO CALL AN AMBULANCE, GO TO THE EMERGENCY ROOM, For more information and to find a doctor, visit www.torrancememorial.org/CoveredCA. OR VISIT AN URGENT CARE FACILITY. CARE CENTER

When seeking medical care, take a second to determine where best to go. Making the right LOCATIONS decision can mean better, more efficient care—and it can save a life. NOVEMBER IS NATIONAL

URGENT CARE > Bleeding that won’t stop PEANUT BUTTER MONTH Torrance Memorial Urgent Care operates centers > Bad or worsening medication reaction, in Torrance and Manhattan Beach designed to treat overdose or poisoning PEANUT BUTTER IS HIGH IN PROTEIN AND ALSO PROVIDES patients on a walk-in basis. Visit an Urgent Care POTASSIUM, FOLATE, VITAMIN E, THIAMIN AND MAGNESIUM. Center for: AMBULANCE

In a life-threatening emergency, call 911. Torrance: eanut butter and peanuts are protein 2 teaspoons baking soda DIRECTIONS: Symptoms The sooner a patient is treated, the better the 22411 Hawthorne Blvd., powerhouses: 2 tablespoons of 2 teaspoons cinnamon Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Spray NUTRITIONAL > Minor fractures and sprains chances of survival. Call 911 for: Torrance, CA 90505 Ppeanut butter provide 8 grams 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg a 13”x 9” baking pan with cooking spray. INFORMATION: > Infections, cold or flu 310-784-3740 of protein and one ounce of peanuts 1/2 teaspoon salt In a medium bowl, mix flours with oats, > Coughs, earaches, sore throats, influenza Symptoms Mon.-Fri.: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. offers 7.3 grams of protein. In addition 1/3 cup peanut butter baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt. Per bar: > Fever > Possible heart attack Sat.-Sun. & holidays: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. to protein, peanuts are packed with 1/4 cup butter or margarine at Using an electric mixer, in a large Calories: 143 > Cuts needing stitches > Chest pain/discomfort important vitamins and minerals, room temperature bowl, beat peanut butter with butter and Protein: 3.7 g > Rashes and skin infections > Heartburn, nausea or abdominal pain including resveratrol found in the skins. 3/4 cup brown sugar orange peel until well blended. Beat in Total Fat: 5.5 g > Worsening reaction to an insect bite > Difficulty breathing Try this breakfast bar recipe instead of 1 finely grated peel of 1 orange brown sugar. Then beat in eggs, one at Carbohydrates: 21.1 g > Pounding heart/change in heart rhythm cereal or a muffin tomorrow morning: 2 eggs a time, beating after each addition. Beat EMERGENCY ROOM > Potential stroke 1 cup buttermilk in buttermilk and vanilla, scraping down Torrance Memorial Medical Center’s Lundquist > Sudden numbness or weakness of FRUIT AND OATMEAL 1 teaspoon vanilla sides as necessary, until well combined. Emergency Department is a certified stroke center, the face, arm or leg BREAKFAST BARS* 1 1/2 cups mixed dried fruit, such Stir in flour mixture. Stir in dried fruit. and designated as an approved pediatric center. > Sudden confusion, trouble speaking Serves: Makes 20 bars as raisins, dried cranberries, Turn batter into prepared pan, Fully equipped to treat acute injuries and illnesses. or understanding Manhattan Beach: Cooking Time: 25 min. chopped dried smoothing the top. Sprinkle evenly with Go to the emergency department for: > Sudden trouble walking, dizziness 855 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Ste. 101, apricots or chopped peanuts. Bake until lightly browned and or loss of balance/coordination Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 INGREDIENTS: dried apples edges just start to pull away from sides Symptoms > Sudden trouble seeing out of 310-939-7873 1 cup all-purpose flour 1/2 cup unsalted peanuts, of pan, about 22 to 25 minutes. Cool > Head injuries, especially if you’re one or both eyes Mon.-Fri.: 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. 1/2 cup whole-wheat flour coarsely chopped completely in pan before cutting into bars. on blood thinners > Sudden, severe headache with Sat.-Sun. & holidays: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. 1/2 cup quick cooking > Fever over 105º F no known cause rolled oats *Courtesy of the American Peanut Council

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Transportation Department have been Top: Recent “Reason Is You” award winnter typified by outstanding, on-time, caring THE REASON IS YOU Cathy Fullerton service. When we were dropped off for surrounded by fellow EXEMPLARY TORRANCE MEMORIAL STAFF MEMBERS AND a doctor’s visit at an address provided by employees. Bottom: DOCTORS ARE HONORED WITH “THE REASON IS YOU” AWARDS. Urgent Care that turned out to be an old Anthony George is address, Alfredo Lopez cheerfully came honored. back, picked us up and took us to the he doctor-patient relationship around rate is very high. Despite her tion. She improves the quality of our new, correct address. He could not have is vital to successful medical high quantity of work, Ana Chavez al- unit and is extremely deserving of this been kinder or more helpful. To boot, treatment, yet many other ways comes to work with a smile on her recognition.” we found ourselves riding in a brand Temployees also contribute face, meets each of the staff with a hello, new van! Transportation provides a vital to quality care. That’s why Torrance and is always ready to work. I have CATHY FULLERTON, service to the community.” Memorial Medical Center created “The never seen someone take so much pride Physical Therapist, Reason Is You Award” for employees in her work, including making sure Home Health & Hospice was impressed. So many people just meet not touched yet. He was puzzled at the RANDY AVAKIAN, Pulmonary providing extraordinary service. The every room is clean, right down to every “Cathy Fullerton is absolutely the minimum requirements of their job missing folders, but with determination Health and Rehab Coordinator award is meant to honor those who have nook and cranny, and ready to present fantastic not only because she is a pro description. Cathy really cares about and persistence he located the problem. JOANNE BARDWIL, demonstrated excellence through their to the patient. It is important that when at physical therapy, but also because she her patients and does whatever needs While attending to my computer, two Respiratory Care Practitioner, compassionate communication, behavior a patient comes into our unit to deliver, is a real problem solver for her patients. to be done to help them through their more staff members had some issues. Pulmonary and Sleep Center or teamwork. Here are some recent award the environment meets expectations in Cathy goes the extra mile to meet her convalescence.” He kindly took care of each one while DONNA TRAN, recipients and their nominating stories. cleanliness. Ana never complains or has patients’ needs and to provide the best keeping an eye on my computer. With Respiratory Care Practitioner, (The identities of the nominators are kept a negative attitude about her workload, possible circumstances for their recovery ANTHONY GEORGE, his determination he executed his plan Pulmonary and Sleep Center anonymous. Physicians and employees even when she works alone without as- while they are in her care. Cathy saw that Desktop Support Engineer, and found the problem. He stayed at my “Randy, Joanne and Donna (I call can nominate each other. Patients can sistance, which is most of the time. She I needed a bath-transfer bench for my Information Systems desk to make sure it was going to work. them my Mod Squad) are special to To nominate an also nominate physicians and employees.) greets every request with a smile, nod, safety in the shower. I live alone and had “Anthony George exhibited Torrance After 45 minutes he left and completed me because I now have a new life. I feel employee for “The and a, ‘Yes, no problem!’ Ana is valued no one to get the bench for me. Cathy Memorial core values through extraor- the task remotely. He followed up to good physically, and most important, Reason Is You” ANA CHAVEZ, Environmental by everyone in the unit, including the promptly went to the store and bought dinary demonstration of knowledge make sure I had what I needed. These are mentally. If you ask a question and they award, please visit Services, Labor & Delivery staff, nurses and doctors. For all of these one. She also assembled it. I told her I and communication. Anthony heard the types of employees that represent our don’t know for sure, they will find out torrancememorial. “In our unit, we have a large volume reasons, I think it is imperative that couldn’t use my dishwasher because the about the trouble I was having with medical center.” for you. I’m proud to know them. I was org/contact. of patients who are coming in either for Ana be recognized as the wonderful as- walker got in the way. I needed soap Outlook. An email was in my folder that also able to see what can happen being labor checks or deliveries. We average set she is to our labor and delivery unit. to wash my dishes in the sink. Cathy needed attention ASAP. I called Help ALFREDO LOPEZ, in their care—two of my class friends are approximately 20 patients per day—and As a result, I would like to nominate bought some for me. She then accepted a Desk. Anthony walked in my office Driver, Transportation Services now off oxygen! This is a wonderful trio this is no exaggeration—so our turn- her for ‘The Reason Is You’ recogni- check to cover all costs. This takes trust. I with his breakfast that was covered and “Our experiences with the drivers in the of helpers.”

12| PULSE Winter 2015 torrancememorial.org PULSE | 13 HEALTH LINKS HEALTH LINKS MORE WAYS TO TORRANCE MEMORIAL VOTED SOUTH BAY’S “BEST HOSPITAL” KEEP KIDS HEALTHY GEE, THANKS! BY DAILY BREEZE READERS AND “BEST HOSPITAL TO WORK FOR.”

Torrance Memorial Medical Center wanted or the seventh consecutive year, Telegram newspapers. Representatives from CEO, Torrance Memorial Medical to reach more children with lessons from Torrance Memorial Medical Center their parent company, Los Angeles News Center. “We have worked hard to create the Healthy Ever After for Kids curriculum has been voted South Bay’s Best Group, formally presented the awards to a culture where a high value is placed on so it started a parent docent program at the FHospital by Daily Breeze readers. President and CEO Craig Leach at the July cultivating and maintaining the stability elementary schools in Torrance Unified School In addition, Torrance Memorial was also management committee meeting. of our workforce. We have developed and District (TUSD). “We started five years ago with named “Best Health Care Company to “We are humbled and extremely maintained a shared decision-making a pilot school and then four schools joined in,” Work for” and “Best Hospital to Work honored that our employees took the process that empowers employees at all says Helaine Lopes, coordinator of the program. for” the second straight year in a survey time to vote and recognize us in this levels to have an active voice in the shape “We now serve all 17 schools. There is a lesson conducted by the Daily Breeze and Press- way,” says Craig Leach, president and and direction of their workplace.” four times a year.” Parents are instructed how to teach topics such as “MyPlate,” “Fresh Foods from Local Farmers,” “Reading Labels,” and “Sugar” and are given props and a healthy snack to go with each lesson. The parents teach in individual classrooms or assembly style. “TUSD Nutrition Services works with us to provide the snacks and keep perishable HEALTHY EVER AFTER items like produce in the cafeteria,” says Lopes. “They have been wonderful. We are also working FOR KIDS with Sprouts grocery store, which gives us a discount on our orders.” TORRANCE MEMORIAL AND TORRANCE-SOUTH BAY YMCA A third program was started last year. “We TEAM UP TO HELP KEEP KIDS HEALTHY. thought about having a Saturday clinic where children would come with their parents to have etting kids to eat their fruits and vege- (one night a week) parent-child program their body mass index (BMI) calculated based on tables often ends up being a second job teaching nutrition and encouraging activity, their height and weight and then follow up with for parents. With soda, candy and pro- held at Torrance Memorial. We adapted the any assistance they may need from Torrance Gcessed foods readily available, it’s no program to encourage more activity by part- Memorial,” says Lopes. “The thought was that wonder children tend to pick pizza over spa- nering with the Torrance YMCA—which has even those who wanted to come may not make ghetti squash when left to their own devices. been great. Participants are given a free six- it due to how busy everyone is these days. So we In order to help change these habits, week family membership to the YMCA. We decided to go to them.” Torrance Memorial Medical Center and have about five sessions a year. The feedback This year Torrance Memorial went to each Torrance-South Bay YMCA have teamed from the parents has been great.” TUSD elementary school, and if a child had a up to create a program for kids ages 7-13 Kids will learn the benefits of movement signed permission slip from a parent, a Torrance and their families promoting healthy lifestyle by using games, dance and strength training, Memorial representative would take his or her choices. Called “Healthy Ever After for Kids,” healthy eating habits, how to set lifestyle goals height and weight and then inform parents via HOME HEALTH AND HOSPICE these fun, interactive classes on nutrition and how to make changes in order to reach a letter of their child’s BMI. All parents received and fitness are taught by registered dietitians those goals. Parents learn, too. A parent or a letter whether their child was measured or RECEIVES TOP RANKINGS and YMCA fitness specialists and provide guardian must attend all class meetings. The not (about 1/2 the students were measured). If useful information and practical tips through class is open to all—not just for those seeking they did not get measured, the letter explained he federal government recently re- nine of 27 measures Medicare published Torrance Memorial Hospice also re- For more information hands-on learning, fun exercises, and parent weight management. the program and offered help if needed. leased a new five-star rating system on its Home Health Compare website. cently received accolades: It ranked in the about Torrance and child activities. Meetings are held Thursdays from 6:30 Children who fell under the category of “at for home health agencies to bring Agencies are evaluated on how quickly top 9 percentile in seven quality scores Memorial Hospice “The original program was Kids ’n’ Fitness, to 8 p.m. at Torrance-South Bay YMCA, risk overweight” or “overweight” were offered Tclarity to a fast-growing segment of they visit patients, whether they explain measured by the Center of Medicare and program, call 310- curriculum from the program at Children’s 2900 W. Sepulveda Blvd. Prior registration is further evaluation for free, including blood the medical industry. Torrance Memorial all drugs a patient is taking to the patient Medicaid Services (CMS). It also topped 784-3751 or visit Hospital Los Angeles,” says Helaine Lopes, required. Fitness classes are free of charge and work and a one-hour consult with a registered Home Health received a ranking of 4.5 out or caregiver, and whether they made sure state and federal benchmarks in all but torrancememorial. coordinator of the program. “It was a six-week the instructor provides all material. dietitian. “We did have a few families who of five stars. This puts it in the top 11% of a patient received a flu shot for the season, one patient satisfaction indicator by Hos- org/Hospice.aspx needed our help and did follow-up,” says Lopes. 9,000 agencies rated nationwide and in the among other criteria. Current star ratings pital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare For more information on Healthy Ever After for Kids, please contact “We also encouraged them to join the Healthy top 10% among the 1,249 agencies ranked are based on performance from the fall of Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) scores Michael Vicari at 310-325-5885 ext. 2714 or [email protected]. Ever After for Kids program at the YMCA. We plan in California. The star ratings capture over- 2013 through December 2014. Medicare measuring patient satisfaction. Scores were on continuing this next year.” all quality by summing up the results of reassesses the stars quarterly. reported on July 16, 2015.

14| PULSE Winter 2015 torrancememorial.org PULSE | 15 HEALTH LINKS HEALTH LINKS

urse discharge instructions that in-patient case managers, home health sounded simple in the hospital and ambulatory case managers to DOCTOR’S can sometimes seem confusing dramatically improve patient outcomes. YOU WEAR IT WELL Nwhen you get back home. One In fact, the Care Coordination Center way to help clarify any questions that arise recently received a grant from the FITNESS WEARABLES DO ALL THE MENTAL WORK FOR YOU ORDERS and monitor conditions after leaving the UniHealth Foundation in the amount of WHILE YOU FOCUS ON ACHIEVING YOUR HEALTHIEST BODY. hospital is to visit the Care Coordination $602,398 to enhance its services. Center (CCC), which is part of the Dr. Haider says that every patient WRITTEN BY REBECCAH GLASER THE CARE COORDINATION CENTER HELPS PATIENTS Torrance Memorial Health System. sees the entire team—including a DECIPHER DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS. “The CCC opened in the fall of physician/nurse practitioner, an advance 2012 and initially functioned as a post- practice pharmacist (for a detailed and Exercise and the South Bay have an unyielding relationship— 3. MOOV discharge comprehensive care center, comprehensive review of their meds) and it’s so sunny and warm most of the year residents have endless Perfect for swimmers and those who WRITTEN BY CAROLE JAKUCS, BSN, RN, PHN where high-risk patients with complex a licensed dietitian (for understanding the opportunities to get out of the house and be active. This is a good enjoy rougher terrain workouts, Moov’s medical issues are seen within a few importance of diet in management of their thing, of course, because an active lifestyle is linked to longer life technology counts repetitions, speaks to you days of their discharge home from the conditions). A post-discharge visit lasts 45 expectancy and may also reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, during workouts and even acts as a personal coach. hospital,” says Tauseef Haider, MD, to 60 minutes and includes the following: type 2 diabetes and several forms of cancer. Here are five “fitness In addition to being waterproof and dust resistant, an internist and director of the Care wearables”—gadgets, really—to help you keep track of your Moov’s nine-axis Omni Motion sensor records and analyzes Coordination Center. The goals are to • A brief physical exam pertinent to the fitness and health goals: your every move—and with a six-month battery life, it’ll patient’s medical conditions; ensure that patients understand and are • A clinical evaluation of the patient’s never die mid-workout. It can be worn on your wrist or ankle. following their discharge instructions— progress; 1. FITBIT Moov’s new update covers every workout—from swimming to like taking their medications as • A detailed review of discharge The frontrunner in wearable fitness boxing—so you’re guaranteed a thorough and comprehensive instructions; prescribed—and continuing to improve. • Reconciling discharge medications and products, Fitbit has it all. Using sensors session every time. $60. welcome.moov.cc Assessing patients and reviewing their optimizing drug regimens; and wireless technology, the Fitbit instructions soon after discharge allows • Following up on any pending lab wristband works in conjunction with a 4. JAWBONE UP3 for appropriate and timely interventions work, imaging studies, cultures and free app that tracks steps, calories burned A proper sleep schedule is just as integral to fitness pathology reports from the patient’s last to be made. “This helps to reduce the hospitalization; and uses LED lights to let you know when as working out, and Jawbone can help you maintain chances of patients needing to visit the • Ordering any follow-up labs; you’re close to reaching your daily goal. yours. Besides monitoring workouts, Jawbone’s UP3 emergency room or be readmitted to the • Coordinating and facilitating follow- When you’re ready to hit the sack, Fitbit wristband tracks your heart rate, body temperature, up discharge visits with various hospital,” says Dr. Haider. allows you to monitor your sleep quality respiration rate and galvanic skin response (changes consultants; While the center continues to care for • Coordinating home healthcare, and length, and will wake you gently with of electrical properties in the skin), and analyzes your post-discharge patients, services have now physical/occupational therapies and a silent alarm. $50 to $350. fitbit.com REM, light and deep sleep statistics. UP3 measures expanded to also include the long-term wound care; your statistics against the average user to ensure you’re • Assisting with arranging durable care of patients with complex medical medical equipment (DME) at home; ready to hit the ground running the next day. $180. problems and providing outpatient • Identifying barriers to post-discharge 2. SPREE jawbone.com palliative care to patients with serious care and making referrals to Spree manufactures breathable, durable caps and headbands illnesses. While patients considered Ambulatory Case Management (ACM) in that partner with a free app to provide precise fitness 5. GARMIN VÍVOFIT 2 The Torrance Memorial Physician order to overcome these barriers; low-risk upon discharge may only visit • Patient education and counseling information—all of the technology with none of the bulk! Geared toward those who are looking Network Care Coordination Center the center once or twice, others that are regarding diagnosis, medications, Spree accepts multiple services in actual time, allowing you to to shed a few pounds, Vívofit’s innovative is located at 2900 Lomita Blvd., considered high-risk and have complex progression of disease, lifestyle monitor everything from body temperature and heart rate to technology observes any lengthy periods Torrance, CA 90505; 310-784-8713. modifications and disease medical conditions visit more frequently management/treatment plans; movement simultaneously. $199 to $299. spreewearables.com of inactivity and gently reminds you to get and over a longer period of time. • Clarifying and defining the goals of care; moving, even if only for a brisk walk. In “One of our top priorities is • End of life discussions with palliative addition, the Vívofit wristband learns your to coordinate patient care in a care patients—including filling out activity patterns and suggests personalized POLST (Physician Orders for Life- comprehensive and compassionate Sustaining Treatment) forms. daily goals—all while tracking distance manner to promote healing and moved, calories burned and steps taken. wellness,” says Dr. Haider. “Our goals Dr. Haider says patient visits are never $100. buy.garmin.com/en-US/US/index.ep are to educate patients, maximize patient rushed at the Care Coordination Center. satisfaction and comfort and optimize “Each member of our team has been cost-effectiveness by reducing emergency carefully chosen and is passionate about department visits and hospital this program. We believe that our service admissions.” The center’s staff works will prove to be a signature level of care collaboratively with outside physicians, for South Bay residents.”

16| PULSE Winter 2015 torrancememorial.org PULSE | 17 HEALTH LINKS ASK THE DOC TAMING COLD VS. FLU OF THE FLU NOT SURE IF YOU HAVE A COMMON HEAD COLD OR THE FLU? SUNIL HEBBAR, MD, A FAMILY HERE ARE SOME WAYS TO DECIPHER YOUR SYMPTOMS. HEALTH PRACTITIONER, SHARES SOME FLU-FIGHTING TIPS. nfluenza, commonly shorted to “flu,” is a conta- dominal pain, changes in mental state (confusion, Flu symptoms usually appear gious respiratory illness caused by viruses. Flu ap- disorientation), symptoms lasting more than 10 suddenly and may include fever pears most frequently in winter and early spring. days, or sinus pain. exceeding 102 degrees, stuffy nose, HOW DO I ENSURE A IThe flu virus attacks the body by spreading If you have a chronic medical condition such fatigue, muscle aches, decreased through the upper and/or lower respiratory tract. as heart disease, asthma, COPD, diabetes, or appetite, nausea, chills and sweats, HIV/AIDS, call your doctor when the first flu cough, and headache. Pulse asked HEALTHY PREGNANCY Is it a cold or the flu? symptoms appear. Sunil Hebbar, MD, a South Bay-area Although the symptoms can be similar, flu is much family health practitioner, to share AND BABY? worse than a cold. You feel flu symptoms soon and What about antivirals? some of his top flu-fighting tips. WRITTEN BY CAROLE JAKUCS, RN, BSN, PHN with greater intensity than colds. The chart below Antiviral drugs can decrease the duration of the PULSE: What’s the best way to can help you compare symptoms. flu by one or two days. They are the most effective prevent cold and flu? when given within 48 hours of the onset of illness, DR. HEBBAR: It’s important to ven though pregnancy is a pregnancy difficulties or is not healthy Q: What is gestational diabetes? other changes that affect the organs What if I get the flu? so you need to call your doctor as soon as you have practice basic hand hygiene, by natural process, parents-to-be due to other conditions, then I want A: Pregnancy hormones affect the such as the liver, kidneys and the If you get the flu, you may treat the symptoms with flu symptoms. They are usually given for about five washing your hands regularly and strive to stay up-to-date on to see her sooner. way the body reacts to insulin; this blood clotting process. Some moms over-the-counter drugs until you feel better. Get plen- to seven days. using hand sanitizer, especially if you Ethe latest medical news regard- Q: What types of tests are in turn affects blood sugar levels. develop mild hypertension without ty of rest and drink a lot of fluids. Warm, salt water are in high exposure areas like schools ing this incredible and life-changing typically ordered by an obste- Some women’s blood sugar levels other changes but when abnormal gargles, throat sprays or lozenges help relieve a sore Should I take antibiotics? and healthcare settings. Maintaining event. While the parents’ genetics trician during pregnancy, and become too high and they develop labs occur along with hypertension, throat. Acetaminophen, naproxen and ibuprofen help Antibiotics are medications that fight infections a healthy diet and exercising regularly play a role in the healthy develop- when are they usually done? gestational diabetes. If a mom’s ini- it indicates organs are being nega- relieve aches and pains and reduce fever. caused by bacteria. Chances are that antibiotics will will also help boost your body’s ment of a fetus, lifestyle choices A: The routine tests done early on tial HbA1c is high, we treat her as tively affected and is considered not help your flu symptoms because flu, colds, and immune system and make you less can also affect pregnancy and baby. are: Blood typing, Rh factor, CBC having gestational diabetes. The preeclampsia. When should I call my doctor? most sore throats and bronchitis are cause by virus- susceptible to getting infections. And, Cheryl Sanders, MD, an obstetrician (complete blood count), anemia good news is that most moms revert Q: Given that preeclampsia Call your doctor if you or your child has a high es. In addition, taking antibiotics when they are not of course, getting an annual flu shot is and gynecologist and member of the screening, German measles, HIV, back to normal after they give birth. can be life threatening for fever lasting more than three days, breathing diffi- needed increases your risk of getting an antibiotic- one of the best preventive measures Torrance Memorial Physician Net- hepatitis B, syphilis, chicken pox an- If mom’s initial HbA1c is normal, mom and baby, are there culty, chest pain, fainting, ear pain, vomiting, ab- resistant infection later. you can take. work who practices at the Women’s tibodies, thyroid and hemoglobin the next test done regarding glucose steps a woman can take to PULSE: What are some common Center of Redondo Beach/Manhat- A1c (HbA1c), which is a screening is between the 24th to 28th weeks reduce her chances of devel- misconceptions that patients have tan Beach, answers some of the top for diabetes. More tests are performed of pregnancy when we run a GTT oping it? about cold and flu? questions expectant parents ask. later in the pregnancy such as general (glucose tolerance test). If this result A: First, remain vigilant and fol- DR. HEBBAR: One common Q: If a woman suspects she is sequential genetic screenings. Also, if is normal then we are generally done low your doctor’s recommendations misconception that is often heard is pregnant, do you recommend mom or dad is a suspected or known assessing for gestational diabetes. regarding lab tests, blood pressure that the influenza vaccine can make she conducts a home preg- carrier for certain conditions such cys- Q: How can a pregnant wom- checks and office visits. We don’t you ill or catch the flu. This has not nancy test, and if so, when? tic fibrosis or other genetic conditions, an reduce her risk of devel- have enough concrete information been scientifically proven. Other A: Home pregnancy tests are read- tests would be done for those, too. We oping gestational diabetes? as to why some women develop it common misconceptions usually ily available but if they are done too cannot change genetic abnormalities A: Watching her weight, eating a and others don’t. We do know that relate to the role of medications. early, they can give false results includ- if they exist—but it’s important for healthy diet and keeping carbohy- it occurs more frequently in first Treatment for the common cold ing false positives. I recommend wait- parents to have this information. drate intake less than 40% of total pregnancies, toward the end of the and flu is mainly supportive, ing until the date of the first known Q: What dietary specifics do dietary intake can help reduce the pregnancy and in older moms. including rest, fluids, and over-the- missed period to do one. you advise? risk. Having gestational diabetes Q: What other advice would counter medicines that can provide Q: When should a woman A: Eat plenty of fresh fruits and increases a mom’s risk of developing you like to share? symptomatic relief. Prescription schedule an appointment with vegetables, whole grains, and lean Type 2 diabetes later, so maintain- A: Pregnancy can be 40 weeks of medications are typically not an obstetrician if she suspects proteins. Limit intake of fatty foods ing these habits after pregnancy can sheer bliss or 40 weeks of sheer ter- needed, although antivirals can she is pregnant? and maintain a normal weight. help reduce that risk, too. ror. The most important things are shorten the duration of the flu if A: If a mom is otherwise healthy, I A physician’s recommendations Q: What is preeclampsia? to remain flexible and vigilant. The caught early enough. typically like the first visit to be six to regarding weight gain allowed during A: Preeclampsia is technically good news is that most of the time, eight weeks into her pregnancy. How- pregnancy is based on mom’s weight pregnancy-induced hypertension mother and baby will be healthy ever, if mom has a history of previous when she became pregnant. (high blood pressure) along with and do just fine.

18| PULSE Winter 2015 torrancememorial.org PULSE | 19 COMMUNITY BENEFIT COMMUNITY BENEFIT

For more information, to make a donation or inquire about volunteering, visit yourcaringhouse. org or call 310-796-6625.

The Caring House team, left to right: Dan Hudson, Karen CARING HOUSE: A LOVING Hlavaty-Pearson, Claire Coignard, HOME FOR THE LAST STAGE Patty Long and Ed Long. Opposite page, top left: Karen TORRANCE CARE HOME TO OPEN ITS DOORS BY 2016. Hlavaty-Pearson shows off the WRITTEN BY CAROLE JAKUCS, BSN, RN, PHN | PHOTOGRAPHED BY LAUREN PRESSEY kitchen. Bottom left: Patty Long mans the phones. ost of us are aware of hospice for persons at the end of their lives, in the South Bay. “We will rely on receiving operating of hospice volunteers at Torrance and perhaps a bit intimidated says Ed Long, volunteer and president Caring House has six private income from charges paid by four Memorial, also serves as a member of by the thought of needing of the organization. Once open, it will bedrooms to accommodate six residents, residents at any given time, in addition the core volunteers. “When a patient hospice care someday. A be the first of its kind in the South Bay with common areas for families to rest, to the generous donations from citizens is terminal, families are exhausted; terminal diagnosis can and in all of Los Angeles County. Now, talk and receive support, plus a full and community organizations,” says hospice-centered care can help support Mthrust patients and their families into patients receiving hospice care will have kitchen for meal preparation. Caring Long. “This will enable us to take in two families as well as the patient at the end a new reality of dependence: Families an alternative place for that care. Caring House is a home—not a medical residents who cannot afford to pay, as of life,” she says. may find it challenging to provide House staff and volunteers will provide provider. Residents wishing to have Caring House is a community-based and Mary Hersh, PhD, RN, director of continuous care their loved one now care and support around the clock. hospice care will need to choose a charitable project.” palliative care at Torrance Memorial, requires. Further, some family members Elder care advocates began planning Medicare-certified hospice service. Torrance Memorial Medical Center adds, “With all the complexities of may live out of state or live nearby but Caring House more than a decade ago, Each resident’s chosen hospice team will has already been a generous community today’s modern world, the process of are unable to take time off from work to when they realized there was a need visit them at Caring House to provide supporter of the organization. “The dying is a time to be respected. The provide needed care. for this type of service in the South medical care, such as pain management hospital has made monetary donations holistic needs of the patient and family Soon, Caring House will welcome Bay. In 2013, Long’s mother became and other services. Caring House will and also lends additional support to are important and Caring House residents on hospice in the South Bay terminally ill and asked to go to an have two trained caregivers on duty the group by providing meeting rooms, aligns with the mission of Torrance to help families during this time of end-of-life home in her hometown 24/7 for six residents and support from printing services and in an advisory Memorial—focused on meeting the transition. of Syracuse, N.Y. Its peaceful home an administrator with a nursing and capacity,” says Claire Coignard, director needs of the community.” Caring House is a non-profit environment and the caring staff hospice background and other vetted of health education and Health Links at The Caring House mission is organization located in Torrance skilled in end-of-life-care his mom staff and volunteers. Torrance Memorial. Coignard serves as reflected in its motto: a loving home for whose goal is to provide a warm and received there confirmed for Long the Medicare and Medi-Cal will not a core volunteer of Caring House. the last stage. Says Long, “Caring House comfortable home-away-from-home importance of opening Caring House cover the cost of Caring House services. Amanda Goodrich, coordinator is a home, not a facility.”

20| PULSE Winter 2015 torrancememorial.org PULSE | 21 CALENDAR CALENDAR

NOVEMBER 18, DECEMBER 12 AARP DRIVER SAFETY PROGRAM DECEMBER 2, 9, 16 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. INTERMEDIATE MAT PILATES If you’re 50 or older, you may be able to save 10:30 to 11:20 a.m. money on certain portions of your car insurance Fast-paced and dynamic class focuses by completing this special driver improvement on strengthening core muscles that help course for older adults. $15 AARP members/$20 improve your balance and provide support non-members. for your spine. Participants must have a WHERE: Torrance Memorial Medical Center, moderate fitness and flexibility level. $36 3330 Lomita Blvd. for the series INFO/REGISTER: torrancememorial.org/classes; WHERE: The Center for Healthy Living, 310-517-4711 2550 Via Tejon, Palos Verdes Estates INFO/REGISTER: torrancememorial.org/classes; 310-517-4711 DECEMBER 13 SKECHERS 27TH ANNUAL DECEMBER 1 TO 6 DECEMBER 3 MANHATTAN BEACH HOLIDAY 32ND ANNUAL TORRANCE MEMORIAL QUESTIONS FOR THE FIREWORKS HOLIDAY FESTIVAL PHARMACIST 4 to 8 p.m. The Holiday Festival is a one-of-a-kind holiday Noon to 1 p.m. Every year the city celebrates its annual holiday event that includes beautifully decorated trees, Do you have questions about your fireworks festival, one of the biggest holiday events NOVEMBER 15 entertainment, holiday gifts, children’s activities, a medications? Are you confused about when in the South Bay. At 4 p.m., Dixieland band Hyperion LIGHT UP A LIFE TREE LIGHTING food court and special events, including a fashion to take them and with what they can be NOVEMBER 20, Outfall plays, Skechers Snow Park opens and a CEREMONY show, dinner gala and a lunch with Santa for kids. mixed? Are side effects creating problems? Santa Float appears. At 5 p.m., listen to the Mira 4 to 6 p.m. DECEMBER 4, 11, 18 WHERE: Torrance Memorial Medical Center This is a free monthly opportunity to sit Costa High School Jazz Ensemble. At 6 p.m., Joe’s torrancememorial.org/ with a Torrance Memorial pharmacist Light Up a Life gives people in the community the BELLY DANCING INFO/REGISTER: Band is the highlight. Fireworks begin at 7 p.m. HolidayFestival; 310-517-4711 who will help you better understand your chance to dedicate a light on Torrance Memorial’s 10:45 to 11:45 a.m. WHERE: Manhattan Beach Boulevard medications. Please bring the medicines holiday tree in memory of a loved one or in honor Rhythmic Belly Dance movements will tone your (overlooking the Manhattan Beach Pier), you are taking, both prescription and non- of someone special. The ceremony recognizes those body and improve your stamina, flexibility, and Manhattan Beach prescription. loved and remembered with a reading of the names circulation. This low-impact aerobic dance style INFO: mbfireworks.com WHERE: Torrance Memorial Medical Center, and a food and wine reception. Musical guests can strengthen your stomach and back muscles. 3330 Lomita Blvd. include members of the Palos Verdes Peninsula High $36 for the series INFO/REGISTER: School Symphonic Orchestra with variations from WHERE: The Center for Healthy Living, torrancememorial.org/classes; 310-517-4711 Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker performed by dancers from 2550 Via Tejon, Palos Verdes Estates the San Pedro City Ballet. INFO/REGISTER: torrancememorial.org/classes; WHERE: Torrance Memorial’s Hoffman Health 310-517-4711 Conference Center, 3315 Medical Center, Torrance INFO: torrancememorial.org/Events; 310-517-4711 NOVEMBER 19, DECEMBER 3 DECEMBER 3, 10, 17 CHAMBER TREE LIGHTING CHAIR YOGA TO IMPROVE NOVEMBER 18 CEREMONY HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE AND 26TH BALANCE AND STRENGTHEN NOVEMBER 26 4 to 9 p.m.* BONES HARRY SUTTER MEMORIAL ANNUAL ANNUAL PIER LIGHTING The Hermosa Beach Chamber of Commerce 2 to 3 p.m. TURKEY TROT 3 MILE FUN RUN will host this annual event, featuring the 6 to 9 p.m. Beginner yoga class using a chair for 8 a.m. DECEMBER 3 official lighting of the Hermosa Beach Kick of the holiday season at Manhattan Beach’s seated and standing poses. Perfect for The City of Torrance Community Services HOLIDAY STROLL holiday tree. In addition, several live bands annual pier lighting. The festivities begin at 6 p.m. those diagnosed with osteopenia or Department invites the entire family to participate 5 to 9 p.m. will be playing, carolers will be singing, hot with carolers and strolling musicians throughout osteoporosis. $36 for the series in the annual Harry Sutter Memorial Thanksgiving Get a jump on your holiday shopping as you buy chocolate will be served, and Santa will downtown; live entertainment at Metlox Plaza from WHERE: Health Education Center, Day Turkey Trot Fun Run. Afterward there will be local to support South Bay businesses, starting make a guest appearance. 6 to 8 p.m.; and Santa and helpers in the Bank of 3105 Lomita Blvd. a drawing for mountain bikes, dinner vouchers, with this Redondo Beach evening. Events include WHERE: Pier Plaza, Hermosa Beach America parking lot from 6 to 9 p.m. At 7 p.m., the INFO/REGISTER: gym memberships and many other outstanding a parade (complete with marching bands!), lights, INFO: hbchamber.net (*Subject to change. mayor will flip the switch and illuminate the pier torrancememorial.org/classes; 310-517-4711 prizes. All registered participants will receive a decorations and a visit from Santa. Visit website to confirm event details.) with holiday lights. commemorative Turkey Trot shirt. WHERE: Riviera Village, South Catalina Avenue, WHERE: Manhattan Beach WHERE: Sam’s Club parking lot (2601 Skypark Drive) Avenue I and Elena Street, Redondo Beach INFO: ci.manhattan-beach.ca.us INFO: torranceca.gov INFO: rivieravillageredondo.org

22| PULSE Winter 2015 torrancememorial.org PULSE | 23 HEART BEATS STAYING IN THE GAME Emmy award-winning sports journalist Shelley Smith beat breast cancer with the help of Torrance Memorial.

WRITTEN BY LAURA ROE STEVENS | PHOTOGRAPHED BY KREMER JOHNSON

t’s hard to imagine anything slowing down Shelley Smith. This four-time Emmy-winning reporter and author of three books has covered nearly every sporting event possible for ESPN—while also writing “LIFE IS NOT long-form features and investigative stories. But in May 2014, this go-getter was stopped in her tracks by one word: cancer. “I got a diagnosis for breast cancer that May after having a routine check up. To say I was shocked is an understatement,” says Smith. “The waiting is the hardest part. Waiting and not A DRESS knowing whether it has spread to your bones ... It’s so hard.” After going through the typical testing and Iwait periods, Smith’s physician recommended the traditional chemo/radiation and mastectomy approach. REHEARSAL. GO A friend suggested that Smith get another opinion and referred her to David Chan, MD, at Torrance Memorial Medical Center, who participates in multiple clinical trials and offers personalized care for breast cancer treatment. Dr. Chan, a specialist in hematology and oncology, as well as the author of the book Breast FOR IT EVERY Cancer: Real Questions/Real Answers, A Guide for Patients and Families, participates in oncology clinical trials to test new molecules and new treatment combinations that are more effective and less painful for the patient. DAY. DON’T HOLD Dr. Chan placed Smith on an anti-estrogen drug for six months that significantly reduced her tumor, allowing for lumpectomy surgery instead of mastectomy—a less painful approach. After her lumpectomy, Smith received chemo and radiation and was then given a 3-D mammogram that “changed everything.” BACK. DON’T GO The use of 3-D technology to clearly see her results was critical. Smith allowed a television crew to follow her experience at Torrance Memorial’s Breast Diagnostic 90%. GO 100%.” Center, where she was able to sit down with Patricia Sacks, MD, and compare images of her breast tissue from a typical 2-D mammogram with that of a 3-D. Side by side, the two images were remarkable. “It’s hard to see a snowball in a snow storm,” says Dr. Sacks, who was able to discern from the 3-D mam- mogram image that Smith no longer had a mass—no longer had cancer. With the 2-D mammogram the image was too blurry to be certain. Smith, now cancer-free, is on a campaign to expand the availability of 3-D mammography across America, as well as shorten wait times for test results. She wished she had known at her initial diagnosis that she could have asked to be referred to a physician that offered 3-D mammograms. Smith is so grateful to Torrance Memorial that she agreed to train with a professional dancer and compete in a ballroom dancing contest to raise money for the hospital. On Sept. 25, the 57-year-old journalist wowed the audience during the Hot Ballroom Nights charity event sponsored by You Can Dance Studio in Hermosa Beach and owner Anna Trebunskaya of Dancing With the Stars fame. Smith’s sense of humor, grace and energy resulted in a standing ovation at the event. “Thyra Endicott, MD, my radiologist, attended the event with Mela- nie H. Friedlander, MD, my surgeon, along with several nurses from Torrance Memorial,” she says. Smith documented her cancer treatment journey in a short film Smith, who claims she doesn’t have a “dancing bone in her body,” says she agreed to participate in the called “Triumphant.” event because of something Herm Edwards, former coach for the New York Jets, once said to her: “Life is not a dress rehearsal. Go for it every day. Don’t hold back. Don’t go 90%. Go 100%.” To see Smith’s docu- mentary, Triumphant, visit http://es.pn/1LcUEez.

24| PULSE Winter 2015 torrancememorial.org PULSE | 25 HEALTHIEST PERSON I KNOW

Beyond the Chair Lift

ANESTHESIOLOGIST STANLEY CHANG’S LOVE FOR FRESH POWDER HAS MADE HIM A HELI-SKIING CONVERT.

WRITTEN BY JAMES F. MILLS | SKI PHOTOGRAPHY BY TOPHER DONAHUE

26| PULSE Winter 2015 torrancememorial.org PULSE | 27 HEALTHIEST PERSON I KNOW

rowing up in and they were afraid I would get hurt. introduced me and my ski buddy, Palos Verdes, So we went on a family skiing vacation Ramin Mirhashemi, a gynecologic Stanley Chang to Mammoth Mountain at age 14 and oncologist at Torrance Memorial, to volunteered went regularly from then on. In college, it. Once I tried it, I was pretty much as a teenage there was less opportunity to ski and hooked. Now we go heli-skiing in the candy striper at Torrance Memorial even less in medical school, but I still Selkirk Mountains in British Columbia Medical Center, never imagining he kept it up. One winter during medical once a year for the past nine years. would return to practice medicine. But school, I took the semester off and lived Chang, who graduated from UCLA in Aspen, Colorado, and did a lot of How is heli-skiing different? Medical School in 1991 and trained at skiing. That’s where I really advanced SC: With most skiing, you stay Harbor UCLA Medical Center, did in my skill level and solidified my love at a resort and take a ski lift up the return to Torrance Memorial and has of the sport. Of course right after that, mountain and then ski down a wide- been an anesthesiologist there for the my medical training prevented me open path. With heli-skiing, you stay past 21 years. from skiing regularly for about 12 years in a lodge that is only accessible by As much as he loves the South Bay, until my sons were old enough and we helicopter during the winter. There are the 50-year-old also loves taking time introduced them to the sport, the way no roads in winter so you have to take off to hit the ski slopes. He’s passed my parents introduced me. a helicopter up to the lodge. The lodge his enthusiasm for the sport on to his is totally isolated in the wilderness. You family. Chang and his wife, Joanne, take What is it about skiing that you take a helicopter up the mountain and their three sons, Michael, 18, Matthew, love so much? ski down. Then the helicopter takes you 17, and Marcus, 14, on skiing vacations SC: It’s fantastic to be out in nature. up to the top again. This goes on for a several times a year. Plus he goes skiing It’s very peaceful doing your own week. It’s great. on his own several more times a year. thing—you have a sense of freedom. It’s

He talked to Pulse about his passion for very serene and meditative. What, you jump out of the PHOTOGRAPHED BY LAUREN PRESSEY skiing, plus his newfound love of golf. helicopter and ski down the You’re also a fan of helicopter mountain? How did you get into skiing? skiing, or heli-skiing. SC: No, that’s something James helicopter with the 10 or 12 others in not thrill seeking by any means. It’s So, now when my sons and I go golfing Dr. Chang’s three Stanley Chang: I used to play ice SC: I started heli-skiing nine years Bond might do. You take your skis off your party. When the copter lands at just a different way to ski. We try to together, that counts as family time. sons, Marcus, 14, Matthew, 17, and, hockey as a child, then my parents made ago. Richard Shrader, a local orthopedic and load them into a basket on the side the top of the mountain, you put your minimalize the danger, not seek it out. You can do a lot of bonding for four Michael, 18, golf me quit because it became too rough, surgeon, is an avid heli-skier and he of the helicopter. You ride inside the skis on and go down the mountain. hours together on a golf course. with Dad and also go Sometimes you’re skiing on a glacier Do you work out as well? on skiing vacations where there are no trees and it’s wide SC: Skiing is physically demanding And now you’re an avid golfer. several times a year. open. Other times you’re tree-skiing and a lot of stamina is needed. I do SC: I’m on the golf course two or through a native forest where there are weekly sessions with a physical trainer, three times a week. It’s funny because no runs cut out; that big wide path does Alonzo Garrett, during the year, but I always thought golf was too hard, not exist. You ski on fresh, untracked we ramp up right before ski season. too expensive, too time consuming, powder every run. It gives you a sense We do circuit training, which is good not even interesting to play. And then of exhilaration being in deep powder in for cardio endurance to build up your I started to play and found out I was the unspoiled wilderness. stamina, then we do leg exercises to wrong on all those counts. It’s good for build up what we call “ski legs.” physical health, but it’s also mentally This sounds dangerous. stimulating. The mental challenge is to SC: You ski down the mountain as You started golfing five years learn to play the game and be constantly a group. There are guides skiing with ago at age 45. What made you improving and challenging yourself, you who know the terrain. There are take up golf so late? which I never knew until I started. I’ve rocks, cliffs, tree wells, etc., you want SC: My wife, Joanne, sent me out. even had some success by winning our to avoid and they know where they She thought it would be enjoyable since club championship, which is something are. We always emphasize safety. We’re my teenage boys were learning to golf. I am proud of. —

28| PULSE Winter 2015 torrancememorial.org PULSE | 29 HEART BEATS

ast year, Steven J. Thompson was swamped, overseeing Torrance Memorial Medical Center pharmacy’s move to the Lundquist Tower. HEALTH REBOOT He’d return from work late, have dinner, and either plop in front of the television or head straight to bed. Torrance Memorial pharmacist Steven The pharmacy director, 61, went to college on a basketball scholar- Thompson and his wife Weeg get back ship and had kept active coaching his daughters’ sports teams. But over the Lyears, his weight had crept up, and he’d become sedentary. on track with help from the Vitality Two things were about to turn Steve’s habits around: His wife started taking fit- employee wellness program. ness classes at a local gym and Torrance Memorial introduced the Vitality program. The Vitality program motivates participants to become healthier by rewarding

WRITTEN BY NANCY SOKOLER STEINER activities with points that can be used toward purchase of items such as electronics PHOTOGRAPHED BY LAUREN PRESSEY and gift cards. Participants complete an online Health Risk Assessment and the Vitality program generates specific health goals, along with activities and a timeline for reaching those goals. Although Steve was too busy to participate when the program launched, his wife, Eloise (also known as “Weeg”) registered and began exploring the online edu- cational resources. She took a nutrition course to earn points and was pleasantly surprised by how much she learned. “It really made me think about what I put in my mouth,” she says. Weeg began trying the recipes and substituting whole-grain bread for white bread and brown rice for white. “We were eating healthier and in moderation, but we were more satis- fied and snacked less,” she says. She started racking up points from her sessions at the gym and 5K runs, includ- ing those sponsored by Torrance Memorial. One of her favorite runs benefits Evelyn’s Breast Friends Forever. Founded by Torrance Memorial nurse Evelyn Calip, the orga- nization raises money to fund breast reconstruction surgery for uninsured or underin- sured women. Another run, Wings for Life, starts at 4:30 a.m. and is held simultane- “IT WAS STARTLING ously in 35 cities around the globe to raise funds for spinal cord injury research. Steve saw his wife having fun and getting impressive results: She lost about 50 pounds and could fit into an evening dress she had worn more than two decades ago. TO SEE HOW LITTLE I With the pharmacy’s move behind him, Steve was ready to get started. The Thomp- sons used Weeg’s points to purchase Fitbit monitoring devices and began tracking their MOVED. NOW I MAKE steps. “It was startling to see how little I moved, especially when I was in meetings all day,” says Steve. “Now, I make sure to walk 10,000 steps just about every day.” The couple’s Fitbit devices sync with the Vitality website so not only are they SURE TO WALK 10,000 motivated to reach their daily goal for steps, but they also get rewarded with points for doing so. STEPS JUST ABOUT Steve’s challenge was to lose 5% of his body weight. “When I hit my goal, I felt better and had more energy. I could bend over and tie my shoes again,” he says. He also joined Weeg in running 5Ks—he’s completed six so far. During a recent EVERY DAY.” run, Weeg placed second in her age bracket and Steve came in third for his. Steve has lost 40 pounds and in June 2015, he and Weeg both attained platinum level, the Vitality program’s highest. Steve, who has worked at Torrance Memorial for 39 years, believes the Vitality program illustrates how caring an organization it is. “They care about us as employees,” he says. “They take care of their employees so their employees can take care of the patients.”

30| PULSE Winter 2015 torrancememorial.org PULSE | 31 WHEN DOCTORS BECOME PATIENTS AFTER HIS OWN KNEE-REPLACEMENT SURGERY, ORTHOPEDIC SURGEON JEROME H. UNATIN, MD, HAS BECOME EVEN MORE EMPATHETIC TO PATIENTS’ NEEDS AND ANXIETY.

WRITTEN BY LAURA ROE STEVENS | PHOTOGRAPHED BY MICHAEL NEVEUX

ou may have heard that doctors make the with Dr. Klitzman’s findings. Dr. Unatin, an orthopedic worst patients. Whether that’s true or surgeon who has been in private practice since 1971, not is up for debate. But does becoming became a patient in his own clinic this year. The a patient transform a physician into a physician, who has performed thousands of orthopedic better, more compassionate doctor? That’s the real surgeries during his career, found he needed a right question—and one that has been examined over knee replacement. An active biker, Dr. Unatin put the years. Columbia University Medical Center off surgery for as long as possible, and then scheduled psychiatrist Robert Klitzman, MD, explored this the procedure at his clinic, South Bay Orthopedic issue in his best-selling book When Doctors Become Specialists, where his partners, Nicholas J. Silvino, MD, Patients. It’s based on Dr. Klitzman’s own time as and Don P. Sanders, MD, could perform the operation. a patient and interviews with more than 70 men “I couldn’t go up and down stairs. I couldn’t bike and women who have experienced both sides of like I used to. It was time for me,” he says. “But there is medicine—as doctors and patients. a gigantic difference between doing this operation and Dr. Klitzman discovered that when physicians get having it done to you. It was a humbling experience.” sick, they discover cracks in the health system they never The orthopedic surgeon has a chuckle and positive noticed before. Things that may have been previously attitude that is contagious. His office is filled with deemed unimportant in a patient’s quality of care— memorabilia: model planes in recognition of his time as such as a broken television in the waiting room, curt or a flight surgeon in Vietnam and photos of his worldwide rude receptionists, or long wait lines—have a big impact travels and his youth in Florida. It is clear his quest to on patient stress. Even those doctors who considered learn more about the world and his community has themselves compassionate realized they could do better never ceased. This curiosity served him well as a patient. after they experienced life as a patient. “As the physician it is very difficult to truly Jerome H. Unatin, MD, agrees wholeheartedly appreciate what the patient goes through. Sometimes

32| PULSE Winter 2015 torrancememorial.org PULSE | 33 WHEN DOCTORS BECOME PATIENTS

and healthy eating help to reduce anxiety “But it will cool and once it calms down and allow a patient to just feel better. A by week three, you can begin slowly to positive attitude, while not quantifiable gain range of motion.” Dr. Unatin advises by science, plays a critical role in health patients to begin working on strength and in recovery, Dr. Unatin adds. and range of motion during week three. If surgery is imminent, experts in the Some physical therapists may disagree or field say knee-replacement surgery has have other favorite means for this, but he evolved. Not only are knee prostheses gained strength and range of mobility with state-of-the-art, surgical techniques are a stationary bike, slowly and mindfully “I’M MORE SENSITIVE TO WHEN MY PATIENTS NEED SURGERY. WE DON’T TREAT X-RAYS— WE TREAT PEOPLE.”

less invasive and less painful than ever increasing duration and difficulty. before. With the use of injections and So how else does Dr. Unatin advise smaller incisions, post-surgery pain is his patients now that he has had knee- significantly reduced. replacement surgery himself? Dr. Silvino, who performed Dr. First, it’s not going to feel like your knee Unatin’s knee surgery on April 14, explains for six to nine months. “Your pain may go, ways doctors significantly reduce post- but it won’t feel organically like your own op pain: “The femoral/sciatic nerve knee right away.” block combination provides good results Second, it will get progressively better we are not sensitive enough to the anxiety too well every possible risk. It weighs on “I’m more sensitive to when my patients for partial and total knee-replacement as long as you get “incrementally better of the patient,” he says. your mind,” he says. “I made up my mind need surgery,” he says. “We don’t treat patients,” he says. “In the period right every day by doing just a bit more.” Still, it’s Being a surgeon, Dr. Unatin clearly to just be a good patient. I did exactly what X-rays—we treat people. I say, don’t rush after surgery when patients experience the a balance. Don’t overdo it. knew all the possible risks of knee I was supposed to do. I even went to the into a big operation like this. If all a patient most distress, they are practically pain-free. Third, be patient. “Patients should have replacement surgery, which would new patient orientation meeting.” has is a little arthritis on an X-ray, maybe Because patients are in less pain, they are patience. Listen to your physical therapist. seem like an advantage but in reality Dr. Unatin decided he wanted to it’s not time yet. There are conservative more inclined to participate in physical Learn from your PT. Pay attention to the elevated his stress level. For instance, experience what other patients experience non-surgical methods of treatment. Wait therapy. This allows for fast recovery and a exercises you are given. Even if you can only the risks of anesthesia gave him pause at the clinic and the hospital. “You have until the issue is really affecting their daily quick return to mobility.” go to a few PT sessions, you can learn what even though he had the benefit of to take yourself out of the realm of being quality of life.” The first thing to do after a knee you need to do at home.” knowing—and trusting—the physicians a surgeon and just be a patient. You have His experience as a patient replacement is rest, says Dr. Unatin. Fourth, be positive. “You’ll get there. and surgeons responsible for his care. to follow what doctors and nurses and reinforced Dr. Unatin’s belief that most Swelling, though typical, can be I’m a cyclist. My anxiety was, would I have He imagines patients without as much physical therapists say.’” patients need to get in shape and lose a discouraging. “The first two weeks you the range of motion to bike? Five months insider knowledge could become even The nurses, staff and physical therapists bit of weight in the months before an will be uncomfortable and swollen. Listen ago I biked on the Strand—not very fast, more anxious. Besides worry about could not have been more professional operation. For best results in recovery, to your doctor and do whatever you can but I still did it!” the operation or illness itself, the idea and calming, says Dr. Unatin. He has great less weight, stronger muscles and heart to relax,” he says. “Do what PTs [physical Dr. Unatin is clearly an inspiration. The of taking time off from work and/or confidence in the anesthesia department health count. therapists] tell you to do. Walk to reduce physician hiked in Yosemite two months extracurricular activities distresses many and had the opportunity to ask Steven Dr. Unatin exercised using gym the chances of blood clots forming, but for after his operation, according to good patients. This type of stress can lead to Underberger, MD, to administer the equipment and watched what he ate to two weeks, you can’t do too much, and a friend and partner Dr. Silvino, who took sleep deprivation, changes in appetite, anesthesia. The anxiety he experienced lose a bit of weight four months prior lot of anxiety can emerge.” the hiking picture above and said his friend attitude, depression, shortness in temper was directly linked to his own knowledge to surgery. Losing weight and keeping Just knowing that anxiety may emerge was “a great patient.” or breath. How a patient deals with their about the surgery and his worrying over in good shape can seem daunting for can help lessen it. Dr. Unatin says to Today, six months after his knee- Top: Dr. Unatin hiked in Yosemite two months after his anxiety can make a huge difference in its effects. He never realized how big a those who have reduced mobility, but count on some uncomfortable moments replacement surgery, Dr. Unatin is back in operation. Bottom: The physician in his office. their recovery. role stress plays, even months before and swimming and other options should be of doubt but know you are healing. “The the office, back on the bike. You may even “I had anxiety. When you do something after surgery, and now he’s much more explored. And healthy eating is always site of the surgery is warm. You may even spot him biking on the Strand or hiking in within your own specialty you know all sensitive to a patient’s individual needs. important at any stage of life. Exercise think an infection is forming,” he says. a neighborhood near you. —

34| PULSE Winter 2015 torrancememorial.org PULSE | 35 HAPPY 90TH BIRTHDAY! TORRANCE MEMORIAL SURVIVED THE GREAT DEPRESSION The original hospital on Engracia Avenue AND OTHER HARDSHIPS OVER THE YEARS TO BECOME A in Old Torrance, built in Spanish-style architecture, suggested a costly mansion LEADING MULTI-FACETED HEALTH CARE SYSTEM. in good taste rather than an institution for the care of the sick. WRITTEN BY DIANE E. BARBER

36| PULSE Winter 2015 torrancememorial.org PULSE | 37 HAPPY 90TH BIRTHDAY

From top: George W. Graham successfully turned 90 IS THE NEW 65! the medical center into a profitable organization; Helena Childs Torrance; Jared Sidney Torrance made a will leaving $100,000 to the Torrance Hospital Association. VOLUNTEERS WHO HAVE REACHED 90 SHARE THEIR SECRETS TO MAINTAINING A FULL, ACTIVE LIFE.

WRITTEN BY JAMES F. MILLS

Torrance Memorial Medical Center ham-radio operator. “That requires celebrated a milestone in its history a bit of thinking and also keeps me this year: 90 years ago the vision of interacting with people.” city founder Jared Sidney Torrance Having a strong support system and his wife, Helena Childs Torrance, of family and friends is also was realized when the doors to essential. “Good family connections the 32-bed Jared Sidney Torrance are so important,” reports Dorothy Memorial Hospital opened in Old Lisman, who had almost 30 relatives Torrance. To celebrate this historic present at her recent 90th birthday marker, Torrance Memorial honored and has been volunteering for 57 hospital volunteers who are more years. “Having family around is than 90-years young. As part of a wonderful. My youngest son moved celebration, guests traveled back in in with me after my husband died in time to experience the music, cars 2004. It’s a blessing to not live alone.” and clothing of 1925. Along those same lines, it’s good inety years ago the Torrance a generous bequest. Orange County combined, only about Mimi Brody, Kate Pulse spoke with several of those to be outgoing and enjoy people. family’s vision was realized The independent, nonprofit hospital a half-dozen remain independent. We Crane, Craig Leach, nonagenarians to learn some of Ninety-year-old Lois Lunde, who has George Graham, when the 32-bed Jared Sydney survived the Great Depression and feel that a local board making decisions their secrets of living a long and volunteered twice a week for the Bill Collier, Norman Torrance Memorial Hospital other hardships throughout the years about the community we serve continues Panitch, MD, and healthy life. past 10 years, says: “It’s important to Nopened. The hospital was named for the to become nationally recognized as a to be the best approach.” Peggy Berwald, RN, Staying active is essential. “Keep like people. I enjoy different people city’s founder, who bequeathed $100,000 leading multi-faceted health care system. For the third straight year, U.S. have each played a moving!” emphasizes 93-year-old and have met a lot of people at the to the Torrance Hospital Association Its evolution included a move across News & World Report ranked Torrance unique and critical Alice Young, who has volunteered hospital. Each one is individual and before his 1921 death. town, two name changes and the building Memorial as one of the best hospitals role in making for 29 years. “Whether it’s walking or has unique things to offer.” Torrance Memorial Torrance believed building a hospital of a state-of-the-art medical campus in California and the Los Angeles what it is today. sports, do something active each day. Keeping your mind healthy would help make the city, which he had outfitted with the latest technology. metro area for 2014–2015. As one of I walk for an hour or so five days a and alert is also important. founded a decade earlier, completely The ultra-modern Lundquist Tower is the largest health-care facilities in Los week and I live in a house with stairs Doris Griffin, 91, who has been modern. However, his bequest was a far cry from the quaint, Spanish-style Angeles (based upon the number of everywhere.” volunteering for 18 years, reports declared invalid because of a technicality architecture of the original hospital on admissions and patient days), Torrance Dan Colburn, 93, agrees. He started that she does crossword puzzles in state laws. Engracia Avenue. Memorial Medical Center is an industry volunteering six years ago after the routinely to keep her mind sharp. His widow, Helena Childs Torrance, Torrance Memorial Medical frontrunner that continues to attract death of his wife, Marlow, a volunteer She also attends a political club and his family honored his wishes by Center’s success is credited to forward- top physicians through technological for almost 30 years. “I used to walk regularly: “Getting out and engaging purchasing land on Engracia Avenue thinking leadership, a passionate and capabilities for on-campus advanced four miles a day,” Colburn says. “I’d with the community will stimulate in Old Torrance, constructing the highly educated staff, and a steadfast medical procedures, including high- walk to Redondo Beach pier, have your mind.” building and deeding it to the Torrance commitment to providing medical care end, complex cardio, neurological and a cup of coffee and come home.” Lisman still reads the newspaper Hospital Association. excellence for the South Bay community. orthopedic surgeries. Colburn recently had to cut back on daily and also crochets. “I crochet The hospital admitted its first patients “It is unique for Torrance Memorial “From a value standpoint, we deliver his walks after suffering a stroke. He blankets for babies in the NICU on May 17, 1925. Torrance’s widow went to still be an independent hospital system top quality at an appropriate cost level. was at the hospital on his regular (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) on to serve as a major benefactor and in the state of California, of which we are We add to that a culture of service with volunteer shift when he had the where I volunteer. I do two or was largely responsible for sustaining the very proud,” says Craig Leach, Torrance a high level of passion and compassion stroke and doctors were able to treat three blankets a week. Parents still hospital through its first decade. She also Memorial’s president and CEO. “With for how we do what we do. This is a great him immediately and successfully. remember me for crocheting those remembered the hospital in her will with about 150 hospitals in Los Angeles and hospital,” says Leach. — To keep his brain sharp, he also is a blankets for their babies.”

38| PULSE Winter 2015 HEART BEATS

ost networking groups get to- that many doctors, so it’s good to have gether for coffee and snacks or these connections.” drinks and hors d’oeuvres. But Joe Spierer, head architect at Joseph NOT JUST FUN MTorrance Memorial Medical Spierer Architects in Redondo Beach, Center’s Young Physicians and Profession- started attending almost two years ago and als Alliance (YPPA) takes networking to now eagerly puts the events on his calen- the next level. dar when the save-the-date notices go out. Since its founding in 2012, YPPA has “It’s more relaxed and casual than other AND GAMES hosted parties, beer tastings, hikes, tours of groups,” says Spierer. “Beyond the doctors, private homes and even speed-networking, it’s great to meet other professionals in the where you chat with someone for five min- South Bay who have the same client base. Young Physicians and Professionals Alliance promotes the work of utes, then move to the next person. This I’ve definitely gotten good leads.” holiday season YPPA is planning a preview But YPPA serves more than just net- Torrance Memorial and funds service awards—and has a good time doing it. party before the annual Holiday Festival, working. The group’s purpose is also to WRITTEN BY JAMES F. MILLS the hospital’s largest fundraising event of promote Torrance Memorial and commu- the year that features more than 30 themed, nity health. “It’s a very social group, but decorated trees. A Mardi Gras-themed the idea is for people to learn more about beer-tasting event is also in the works, as is a this great independent community hospi- Western-themed casino night. tal we have and take pride in our hospital,” “We hold some really fun and says Dr. McKinnell. engaging events,” says Heidi Hoffman, The yearly $500 tax-deductible dues MD, a radiologist at Torrance Memorial not only pays for the YPPA events, but also and one of YPPA’s founding physicians. funds the DAISY awards given to nurses Above: James McKinnell, MD, “So you not only get to network and who exemplify outstanding service and “The Physician co-chair; Opposite page, meet new people, you do that while beer Reason Is You” award given to other hospital clockwise from upper left: James tasting, hiking the hills of Palos Verdes, or staff members for outstanding service. McKinnell, MD; Joe Spierer, Heidi Hoffman, MD, Ben Archer; Colleen For more socializing on the rooftop at Shade Hotel.” Designed for physicians and profes- Shepard, James McKinnell, MD, information, visit The events get the doctors out of the sionals under 50 years old (but they never Tracy Bercu, MD, Peter Weinstein, torrancememorial. hospital and introduce them to commu- check ID at the door), the group is fairly Hilary Zachry, Clay Zachry, org/yppa. nity leaders, businessmen, politicians and evenly divided male and female. About 40 Professional co-chair. professionals from across the South Bay. percent of the members are physicians, 60 “What I really like is it’s a chance to percent professionals. meet other educated, intelligent people to YPPA traces its beginnings to 2011 have social connections with. It’s through when Dr. Hoffman’s father, the late “YOU NOT ONLY GET TO YPPA that I feel like I have a larger radiologist Richard Hoffman, MD, connection to the community,” says James suggested the hospital Foundation board NETWORK AND MEET NEW A. McKinnell, MD, an infectious disease start such a group. The first few meetings physician at Torrance Memorial who also only attracted about a dozen people, serves as YPPA’s physician co-chair. “A but word spread and YPPA now has 91 PEOPLE, YOU DO THAT WHILE number of friendships have emerged out of members. YPPA holds five events per YPPA between myself and professionals, year, about half of which are exclusive to BEER TASTING, HIKING THE and myself and other physicians, too.” members only. The others are open to non- The professionals in the group get members who are invited by a member. access to doctors they would not otherwise “We target physicians as well as HILLS OF PALOS VERDES, OR meet, unless they end up in the hospital. successful entrepreneurs, professionals “It’s a group of physicians you don’t and business leaders who believe in SOCIALIZING ON THE ROOFTOP find in most networking groups,” says what Torrance Memorial stands for and Ben Archer, head of Archer Building want to support the hospital,” says Dr. AT SHADE HOTEL.” Group in Redondo Beach. “We do a lot Hoffman. “We’re really putting together of networking, but we don’t come across a stellar group.” —

40| PULSE Winter 2015 torrancememorial.org PULSE | 41 32nd Annual TORRANCE MEMORIAL HOLIDAY FESTIVAL

JOIN US IN THE BIG WHITE TENT AT TORRANCE MEMORIAL.

oliday Festival is an annual tradition DEC. 1 DEC. 3 DEC. 4 FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS that includes beautifully decorated FESTIVAL FASHION SHOW PUBLIC EXHIBIT AND BOUTIQUE FESTIVAL NIGHT GALA trees, entertainment, holiday gifts, 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Closed to the public | 6 to 11 p.m. • Holiday boutique • Drawing for a holiday tree children’s activities, food court, $125 per person $300 per person or $550 per couple • Drawing for a 2016 Lexus RC350 fashion show, dinner gala, and (No daytime hours on Dec. 4) SENIOR DAY 2 • Festival food court a Santa lunch. All activities are PUBLIC EXHIBIT AND BOUTIQUE 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.* DEC. 5 • Area for children to decorate and take home cookies sold by Torrance Bakery located at Torrance Memorial Medical 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Free admission for seniors and the physically • Photo area with Santa and his elves challenged PUBLIC EXHIBIT AND BOUTIQUE Center, 3330 Lomita Blvd., Torrance. *also open to general public 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. • Children’s boutique and game area Prices (unless otherwise noted): $5 general DEC. 2 • Face painting admission; children 5 & younger are free. All PUBLIC EXHIBIT AND BOUTIQUE • Child ID and fingerprinting COMMUNITY SERVICE GROUP NIGHT DEC. 6 proceeds will support Torrance Memorial 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. • School & community-based entertainment including singing, dancing, 4 to 9 p.m.* PUBLIC EXHIBIT AND BOUTIQUE Medical Center. Visit TorranceMemorial. and performance acts—everything from an 11-year-old vocalist to a Special admission $2 for those bringing 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. org/HolidayFestival to purchase tickets or SENIOR DAY 1 something representing their organization Caribbean-style steel drum band view the entertainment schedule. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.* (e.g., hat, pin, name badge) • Many local school choirs, ensembles and jazz bands *also open to general public Free admission for seniors and the physically LUNCH WITH SANTA • Troupes performing ballet to Polynesian dance challenged 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. • During senior hours: Dixie-style band, performers from the *also open to general public $15 per person (minors must be supervised by a paid adult). Drifters and Platters, and local line dance groups Reservations required. Bring your camera!

42| PULSE Winter 2015 torrancememorial.org PULSE | 43 FLASH FLASH TORRANCE MIRACLE OF LIVING MEMORIAL’S 90/90 AT THE BEACH OCTOBER 20 CELEBRATION Shade Hotel, Manhattan Beach SEPTEMBER 8 Torrance Memorial Medical Center A powerhouse panel of breast cancer experts spoke recently at Torrance Memorial Medical Center the posh Shade Hotel, imparting celebrated a milestone in its history the latest medical expertise about this year. Ninety years ago the vision screening, diagnosis, treatment of city founder Jared Sidney Torrance and recovery. The speaking and his wife Helena Childs Torrance engagement took guests through was realized when the doors to the 32- a patient’s journey and introduced bed Jared Sidney Torrance Memorial the collaborative team that cares Hospital opened in Old Torrance. To for patients every step of the way. celebrate, Torrance Memorial honored The event comforted many in the 12 hospital volunteers who are more audience who are currently dealing than 90-years-young. Back Row: Carol Pedersen, Gay Rubasky, John Rubasky, Dan Colburn (90+), Joan Anderson. Front Row: Leo Harris (90+), Sonia McCoy, Jack Newman (90+) with a cancer diagnosis. Speakers were praised by audience members, who publicly thanked them for saving their lives.

Some 90-year-young guests, Dorothy Lisman (90), Guest, Lois Lunde (90), and Pinkie Pirie (90+), enjoy the musical entertainment.

Colleen Shepard, James McKinnell, MD, Lisa Jewell, MD, Vimal Murthy, MD Patricia Sacks, MD, Vanessa Dickey, MD, Judith Gassner

Michele Stratton, Laura Schenasi, Lucy Kimball, Mimi Brody and Mary Matson celebrate Kimball’s “retirement” from 47 years of volunteering. Jerry Perry, Marti Sewell, Geneva Chantlin.

Back Row: Tom Brewer representing Assembly member David Hadley, David Leger representing U.S. Representative Ted Lieu, Sally Eberhard, Torrance Mayor Pat Front Row: Linda Maynor-Gardea, RN, Vanessa Dickey, MD, Melanie Friedlander, MD. Second row: Patricia Sacks, MD, Thyra Endicott, MD, Furey, and Fernando Morales representing State Senator Ben Allen’s office. Front Row: Dan Colburn, Doris Griffin, Leo Harris, Dorothy Lisman, Lois Lunde, Mary Sherry Kramer, Pat Lucy, Rich Lucy, Judith Gassner, Evelyn Calip, RN, Danielle Boujikian Nakaji, Jack Newman, Pinkie Pirie, Della Weinhuff, Alice Young. (Unable to attend: Louise Colin, Ginny Loos.) Evelyn Calip, RN, Lisa Jewell, MD

44| PULSE Winter 2015 torrancememorial.org PULSE | 45 FLASH FLASH EVENING UNDER THE STARS AUGUST 1 American Honda Motor Co. Campus, Torrance

Proceeds of $100,000 generated from this summer’s “Honda Evening Under the Stars” 29th Annual Gourmet Food & Wine Festival will help pave the way for non-profit Torrance Memorial Medical Center’s upcoming Barbara Lurie, Mark Lurie, MD renovation to its North Tower to benefit women’s and pediatric services. That evening Honda also announced the donation of a 2015 Honda Odyssey van to Torrance Memorial to be used for the transport of patients on and around campus. Earlier this year, Honda made a donation for $1 million to go toward Torrance Memorial’s new Lundquist Tower. Front: Catherine Madorin, MD, Melanie Friedlander, MD, Judith Friedlander. Back: Houman Soloman, MD, Aileen Takahashi, MD, Craig Leach, Al Lam, MD, Riad Adoumie, MD, Son Nguyen, MD, Rolfe Metzger

Jackie Geiger, Greg Geiger Terry Hohm, Joe Hohm, Jennifer Hohm, Brandon Hohm

Marc Schenasi, Laura Schenasi, Judy Gassner, Sigrid Allman Judge Milan Smith, Kate Crane

Stanley Chang, MD, Brian Miura, MD, Son Nguyen, MD, Tiffany Trinh, MD, Jessica Tsai, DDS, Tonny Lee, MD Steve Morikawa, Mary Morikawa, Priscilla Hunt and family

46| PULSE Winter 2015 torrancememorial.org PULSE | 47 TMPN_WhyNeedPCP_Pulse:TMPN_WhyNeedPCP_Pulse 11/5/15 10:53 AM Page 1

FLASH KAPLAN YPPA SALON OCTOBER 2 Palos Verdes Peninsula

Torrance Memorial Medical Center’s Young Physicians and Professionals Alliance (YPPA) recently gathered for a members- only event at the home of Dawn and Bo Kaplan. The growing and dynamic group networks, but continues to learn about the medical Why You Need A www.TMPhysicianNetwork.org center’s mission. The group has grown to nearly 100 members representing a variety of professions. Members find value in networking while supporting a worthy cause. Bo Kaplan, Casey Moir, Marc Schenasi, Nhat Tran, MD Primary Care Physician Having a Primary Care Physician results in significant patient health benefits: Coordination of Care • Lower Medical Costs Staying Healthier As You Age • Referral to Specialists Same Day Appointments Available. Call Today 310-891-6717

Alex Shen, MD, Anthony Walker, Meg Hall, Heidi Hoffman, MD, Allyson Shen, John Abe, Betty Duong, Dr. Keith Chumley Dr. Carmen Morales MD, Dawn Kaplan Betty Duong, John Abe, MD, Keri Zickuhr, MD Primary Care Primary Care 3701 Skypark Drive, Suite 100 824 E. Carson Street, Suite 203 FORWARD THINKING Torrance Carson AUGUST 6 Palos Verdes Estates Dr. Sunil Hebbar Dr. Maria Vollucci The giving spirit of the holiday season was apparent during a beautiful al fresco evening Primary Care Primary Care at the home of Song and Dave Klein when they generously opened their home to support 705 Pier Avenue 2900 Lomita Boulevard Torrance Memorial Medical Center’s premier Hermosa Beach Torrance fundraiser Holiday Festival. Each guest brought coveted wines, which will be available for purchase during the silent and live auctions of the event’s black tie gala this December. Visit torrancememorial.org/holidayfestival to learn Anthony J. Chen, M.D. Dr. Michael Yu more about the one-of-a-kind event. Primary Care Primary Care Dave Klein and Marc Schenasi 2900 Lomita Boulevard 3333 Skypark Drive, Suite 100 Torrance Torrance

Dr. Mary Beth Miller Dr. Natalie Zelta Primary Care Primary Care 3333 Skypark Drive, Suite 100 705 Pier Avenue Torrance Hermosa Beach

The wine haul! Greg Delgado, Frank Conterno, Mark Landon Sandy VandenBerge, Helaine Lopes

48| PULSE Winter 2015 TORRANCE • REDONDO BEACH • MANHATTAN BEACH • HERMOSA BEACH • CARSON END NOTE 32nd Annual Festival Trees for Pre-Sale WE LOVE IT! December 1-3

TORRANCE MEMORIAL WAS VOTED “BEST HEALTH CARE COMPANY TO WORK FOR” AND “BEST HOSPITAL TO WORK FOR” BY THE DAILY BREEZE AND PRESS-TELEGRAM NEWSPAPERS. WHAT MAKES IT A GREAT PLACE TO WORK? WE ASKED EMPLOYEES:

“Well for me, the people I “I have been at Torrance DECEMBER 1 - 6, 2015 have worked with over the Memorial for almost 10 Located in the white tent at Skypark Drive and Medical Center Drive last 15 years have really years now and have had become my people, and three very different positions Enjoy beautifully decorated holiday trees, my work family. I cannot (administrative assistant, walk through the hospital MMIS system analyst and boutique, food court and local entertainment without seeing people I contract analyst). When call friends. Those I have I think back about my PUBLIC EXHIBIT • BOUTIQUE SHOPPING SENIOR DAYS received training from are previous positions as well my mentors forever and as my current position four those I have trained are as things come to mind that Tuesday, December 1 ...... 1:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, December 2 ...... 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. dear to me as if they were my define why I love working for kids. I beam with pride as I Torrance Memorial: Wednesday, December 2 ...... 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. Thursday, December 3 ...... 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. see them excel, and I glow when they receive recognition for Challenged. Every day is different and I’m faced with many their accomplishment. I have seen several of them receive different tasks, but I’ve always felt that I’ve been given the Thursday, December 3 ...... 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. Free admission to seniors DAISY awards. Recently, I have had to make several trips to tools and encouraged to use my creativity and intellect to our emergency department. My husband laughs and says for accomplish these tasks. Friday, December 4 ...... Closed to Public me going to the ED is like going to a family reunion—I get Engaged. Management cares about their employees’ career goals to see all my friends as they run my tests, and I receive the and takes an active part in mentoring to help facilitate these goals. Saturday, December 5 ...... 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. COMMUNITY SERVICE GROUPS very best care possible.” Valued. I’ve always felt like I was a part of a team working —Pattie Mann, RN, ASN, WCC, outcomes toward a common goal. I really do feel that everybody’s Sunday, December 6 ...... 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Thursday, December 3 ...... 4 p.m. - 9 p.m. opinion does matter. management RN, clinical quality & patient safety $5 General Admission Rewarded. Management takes an active role in promoting Special rate of $2 for admission “It’s been a great joy from within and ensuring that we are compensated fairly. Children 5 and under are free working at Torrance I look forward to having a long career at Torrance Memorial.” Memorial for the last 15 —Sabrina Getchius, contract analyst, supply chain operations years and it is indeed an honor to be a part of the “Our CEO, Craig Leach, team. I absolutely love takes the time to warmly working here because it is acknowledge the employees Win a Lexus! a great and friendly place he encounters throughout Grand Prize with amazing people. the day, no matter how 2016 Lexus RC350 We are one enormous busy he is, and no matter family working together where we fall within the as a team to improve the hierarchy. He sets the tone, Donated by Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc. health of families. I’ve been and we feel it! The people privileged to work with dedicated co-workers who tirelessly I encounter on a daily basis Call 310-517-4703 to buy opportunity provide compassionate and exceptional care to our patients both inside and outside of drawing tickets. and their families. Being a part of all that keeps me here and I my own department provide cannot imagine wanting to work anywhere else. I am grateful a welcoming environment, every day.”—Carolyn Cruz, RN, staff nurse, mother/baby and I look forward to coming to work every day.” —Verona Rettig, administrative assistant, administration 3330 Lomita Blvd., Torrance, CA 90505 • www.TorranceMemorial.org/HolidayFestival • 310-517-4606

50| PULSE Winter 2015 WHEN BONES CONNECT PROPERLY, SO DO PEOPLE. Torrance Memorial offers one of the most comprehensive and advanced orthopedic care programs in Southern California. Our expert team is skilled in minimally-invasive treatments that get you back to your family and friends faster and healthier. TMOrtho.com

CENTER OF EXCELLENCE • ADVANCED TREATMENTS • PERSONALIZED CARE NEW KNEE NEW ME