Enjoying Life’s Special
Moments Pain-Free p10
7 WAYS TO PROTECT
YOUR HEART p28
HEALTH VILLAGE IS
Your One-Stop Shop p30
JANUARY/
FEBRUARY
2014
Take
Comfort
Southern Ocean Medical Center
Rest easy knowing
our new Pediatric
Care Center
provides convenient,
coordinated care.
page 21
Six-year-old Owen
Courtney is back
to playing soccer
thanks to the care
he received at the
Martin Truex Jr.
Pediatric Care Center.
MORE ONLINE AT SOUTHERNOCEANMEDICALCENTER.COM
Connect
A MESSAGE TO THE COMMUNITY
WITH US
including nuts in your diet can help
lower your cholesterol, reduce your risk
for heart disease and stroke, and more!
try our delicious fruity nutty spinach
recipe, available on january 7 at
www.facebook.com/MeridianHealthNJ.
meridian health tweets hot
health-related headlines for the
new year and a healthier you
at www.twitter.com/MeridianNJ.
Meridian CardioVascular Network
offers everything you need for your
heart and vascular care. Watch our new
commercial to learn how our network’s
specialists continuously provide remarkable
treatment and surgical options at
www.youtube.com/MeridianHealthNJ.
Enjoying Life’s Special
Moments Pain-Free p10
7 WAYS TO PROTECT
YOUR HEART p28
HEALTH VILLAGE IS
Your One-Stop Shop p30
JANUARY/
FEBRUARY
2014
Take
Comfort
Southern Ocean Medical Center
Rest easy knowing
our new Pediatric
Care Center
provides convenient,
coordinated care.
page 21
Six-year-old Owen
Courtney is back
to playing soccer
thanks to the care
he received at the
Martin Truex Jr.
Pediatric Care Center.
MORE ONLINE AT SOUTHERNOCEANMEDICALCENTER.COM
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healthViews app is
now available for free
download from the
app Store on itunes.
once you’re in the
store, simply search
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download the app.
Another year is upon us, and with
it comes a new opportunity to
dedicate yourself to a healthy life.
Whatever your resolution is this
year — quitting smoking, losing
weight, eating healthier — Meridian
is dedicated to being your partner
in good health.
We are proud to announce that
Meridian Health recently earned
accreditation by the Society of
Cardiovascular Patient Care for
providing the best care available
for patients who present with
symptoms of a heart attack. This
is the highest designated Chest
Pain Center Accreditation and
certifies that Meridian Health is a
center of excellence in treating
patients with chest pain. Meridian
Health is the first and only health
care system in New Jersey to earn
this accreditation.We’d also like
to congratulate the Meridian
Health affiliated physicians,
including the cardiologists of
Meridian CardioVascular
Network, who were recently
named to this year’s New Jersey
Monthly Top Doctors.
In light of National Heart Month
coming up in February, Meridian
Health continues to shine a light on
cardiovascular care and prevention.
Health
views
John K. Lloyd, FACHE, PRESIDENT
2
Meridian Healthviews • JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014
Sincerely,
John K. Lloyd, FACHE
President, Meridian Health
take charge of your health with meridian’s many free classes,
screenings, and events! Turn to page 22 to learn all the details!
Gordon N. Litwin, Esq., CHAIRMAN
Receive free e-newsletters on
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health topics! Sign up at
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Our community calendar is packed
full of exciting and informative
events that focus on heart health.
From our Joyful Heart Tea to
AngioScreen®, Meridian
CardioVascular Network continues
to work hard for you.
Let this be the year in which you
take that next step toward good
health. We are privileged to help
you along on your journey.
Chrisie Scott, VICE PRESIDENT OF MARKETING
AND CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS
Elliot Frank, M.D., MEDICAL ADVISOR
Michael McCauley, Gabriella Heizler,
Jacki Kronstedt HEALTHVIEWS PRODUCTION TEAM
this free bimonthly magazine is
prepared by the marketing and
communications team of meridian
health. please call 732-751-7530
with any questions or comments.
inquiries or ideas can be addressed to
healthviews@meridianhealth.com.
© 2014 meridian health
the material provided in this magazine is
intended to be used as general information
only and should not replace the advice
of your physician. always consult your
physician for individual care.
Contents
4 Health Snapshots
concussions cause Lasting brain
damage; can you Worry your Way to
a heart attack?; 3 reasons to Fill up
on Fiber; are you Likely to need a
new knee?
all for one .................................... 18
a breath of Fresh air ................... 19
dancing through Life ................... 20
take comfort................................ 21
on the road again ....................... 27
Success Stories
back in action ................................ 6
getting a Leg up ............................ 8
From the heart .............................. 9
Life’s Special moments ................ 10
back on the beat ......................... 11
returning to What matters .......... 12
Woman on the go ....................... 14
a healing touch .......................... 15
making a difference..................... 16
22 Events Calendar
10
Life’s Special
Moments
Forked River resident Mark Risberg
(pictured above) is enjoying a painfree life thanks to knee surgery.
community health programs, fun
events, and support groups around
the region for adults and children.
Health and Wellness
7 Ways to protect
your heart .................................... 28
your one-Stop Shop .................... 30
understanding the risks of high
blood pressure............................. 31
MeridianHealth.com • 1-800-DOCTORS 3
Health
snapshots
percent of America’s
12- to 15-year-olds
have tooth decay.
concussions cause Lasting brain damage
Coming to
Southern Ocean
Medical Center?
We encourage
you to explore
our photo tour to
learn more about
our facility before
you arrive. Visit
SouthernOcean
MedicalCenter.com
and select “About
Us” and “Hospital
Photo Tour.”
Doctors refer to concussions as “mild
traumatic brain injury.” But new research
shows the effects are
anything but trivial.
As part of a new study
in the journal Radiology,
doctors studied the brains
of 64 people. Those who’d
had concussions showed
changes in their white
matter similar to that
seen in people with
Alzheimer’s disease.
“The findings provide even more incentive
to protect your head — and your child’s,”
says Tommasina Papa-Rugino, M.D., of
Southern Ocean Medical Center. Prevent
concussions by always buckling seat belts
in the car and wearing helmets:
• When playing contact
sports or batting in baseball
• While riding a bike,
motorcycle, or horse
• When skateboarding,
skiing, snowboarding, or
in-line skating
can you Worry your Way into a heart attack?
Jersey Shore
Gets Best
Hospital
Ranking
Jersey Shore
University
Medical Center
is included in
the 2013-2014
Best Hospitals
New York metro
area rankings in
eight specialties
released by U.S.
News & World
Report.
To learn why,
visit JerseyShore
University
MedicalCenter.com.
4
concerned that stress may harm your health? “that fear — rather than the
strain itself — may be linked to heart disease,” says Liana Spano-brennan, d.o.,
a cardiologist at jersey Shore university medical center.
in a study of more than 7,000 people, about 600 participants
told researchers that stress affected their health
significantly. those people were twice as likely to
have a heart attack or die of heart disease than
those who didn’t feel the same effects.
if you feel overwhelmed by stress in
your life, talk with your doctor. he or she
may recommend heart tests or suggest
ways to fight tension. For instance,
deep breathing and other relaxation
techniques can reduce anxiety.
Meridian Healthviews • JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014
3 new reasons to Fill up on Fiber
Fiber does more than keep you regular. According to a recent
review of past research, fiber also keeps your weight in
check and decreases your risk for type 2 diabetes
and heart disease.
“Most Americans consume only half the
recommended daily amount of fiber, which
varies from 21 to 38 grams based on your
age and gender,” says Roger
Thompson, M.D., of Riverview
Medical Center. To get more fiber:
• Choose whole grains whenever you can.
• Check food labels. Choose foods with at least 3 grams
of fiber per serving.
• Eat at least 2 cups of fruit and 2 ½ cups of vegetables
daily. Beans, sweet potatoes, and berries contain particularly
high levels of fiber.
Celebrate
Heart
Month!
Learn your
risk for heart
attack and
stroke by
attending an
AngioScreen®
event! And
to celebrate
Heart Month,
the screening
is just $49.95.
Turn to page
23 to learn
more about
Riverview’s
January 10
AngioScreen
event!
are you Likely
to need a
new knee?
most doctors’ offices don’t come equipped
with a crystal ball. but now, knowing just four
factors can help yours determine if you’ll end
up having a knee replacement in the future:
• your gender
• your age
• how far your arthritis has progressed,
based on X-rays
• how you’d rate your quality of life
“of course, these predictions aren’t destiny,” says
arthur mark, m.d., of ocean medical center. “total
knee replacement can relieve pain and help you
resume your normal activities. but as with any
surgery, it has risks as well as benefits.” talk with
your doctor about all your options, including
medications and walking supports, such as canes.
Join the
Meridian
Movement
your meridian
health team
is committed
to helping you
maintain bone and
joint health. to
meet our experts
or find more
information about
attending an event,
visit Meridian
MovementNJ.com.
MeridianHealth.com • 1-800-DOCTORS 5
Back in Action
ocean Medical Center
Pacemaker puts active senior
back in circulation.
Florence Danilko (below, in purple) has
enjoyed being an artist ever since she was a
young girl. The Brick resident is involved
in an active adult community and is taking
her second art class.
FLORENCE DANILKO WILL BE GLAD TO TELL YOU ABOUT HER PACEMAKER — SHE MIGHT
even show you the surgical scar nestled below her collarbone. But you’ll have to
track her down first. The vibrant 86-year-old might be working on her
latest oil painting with her artist club, taking a bus trip to Atlantic City,
or visiting her son in New York. “I started a novel, but I’m never at
home to work on it,” she says.
Florence may be constantly on the go nowadays, but last
spring, a racing heart was slowing her down. “I would get heart
palpitations after exerting myself. It felt as if my whole body
Aarti Patel, M.D.
was shaking,” she says. “I stopped doing a lot of things because
Board certified in
my heart would ‘run away.’”
Internal Medicine
Brick
732-458-6200
An Insurance Policy for an Irregular Rhythm
In May 2013, Florence was diagnosed with atrial
fibrillation, which is caused by abnormal electrical pathways in the
heart. These pathways create signals that cause the heart’s upper
chambers (atria) to quiver rather than beat effectively.
6
Meridian Healthviews • JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014
Medications that were supposed to
regulate Florence’s heartbeat made her lightheaded, even causing her to faint a few times
with no warning. In June, an
episode of severe palpitations
Home Safe and Sound
sent her to Ocean Medical
Center, where cardiologist
A former police officer, Jim
Aarti Patel, M.D., part of
Phillips remembers nothing
Meridian CardioVascular
from the night of his heart attack.
Network, suspected that her
After treatment, he is feeling great and
problem was broader than
happy to be back with his loved
atrial fibrillation.
ones. To hear Jim’s story, go to
“It turned out that the
MeridianCardioVascularNetwork.com.
tissue that relays electrical
signals to Florence’s
entire heart — not just her atria — was
diseased,” Dr. Patel says. “Her sinus node,
which is the primary natural pacemaker
of the heart, had stopped working, and
her atrioventricular node, which is the
secondary pacemaker, had taken over. I
assured Florence that her heart was still
capable of producing a normal rhythm,
but implanting an artificial pacemaker
would give it a kind of insurance policy
and help regulate her heartbeat.”
“I’d never had any kind of operation, so
I was reluctant at first,” Florence says. “But
Dr. Patel put me at ease and helped me
understand that without a pacemaker, my
palpitations would probably get worse.”
Dr. Patel adds that, unlike many other
cardiac issues, electrical conduction
problems are unrelated to lifestyle. “When
people think of heart disease, they tend
to think of artery blockages and other
plumbing issues that might be prevented
or improved through diet, exercise, and
stress management,” she explains. “But
Research
& Education
Prevention
& Wellness
Diagnosis
On June 3, Dr. Patel implanted a dualchamber pacemaker, which consists of a
battery, a computerized generator, and
electrodes running to the upper right and
lower right chambers of the heart. The
pacemaker continuously monitors how
these chambers are contracting. If the heart
rhythm drops, it starts firing electrical
impulses, coordinating the timing between
the two chambers to bring the contraction
rates back to normal. Florence’s pacemaker is
also MRI compatible, meaning that it will not
prevent her from getting an MRI scan should
she need one for any reason.
“In most cases, the patient does not even
realize that the pacemaker is working,”
Dr. Patel adds.
Dr. Patel used a minimally invasive
surgical approach, working through an
incision about 1 ½ inches long. The
procedure took about 90 minutes, and
Florence went home the day after surgery.
“I didn’t have any pain after surgery, and
before long, I was in circulation again,”
Florence says. She visited Dr. Patel once
more in August for a routine office visit
to adjust the timing of the pacemaker,
which was done with an external device.
“Now I’m back doing all sorts of things,
and I’m tired at the end of the day, but it’s
a good tired,” Florence says. “I’m very
pleased with Dr. Patel and my whole
experience at Ocean. I think I’m going to
live to be at least 100.”
Barbara didn’t realize that one day her passion would
save her life.
To learn more about Barbara’s minimally invasive procedure, visit
MeridianCardioVascularNetwork.com. For a physician, call 1-800-DOCTORS®
Taking Care of
New Jersey
Meridian CardioVascular Network
Jersey Shore University Medical Center
Meridian Network of Physicians
Ocean Medical Center
Meridian At Home
Riverview Medical Center
Meridian Rehabilitation Centers
K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital
Meridian Life Fitness Centers
Southern Ocean Medical Center
Home
A Minimally Invasive Approach
Explorer.
Treatment
Recovery
conduction disorders are often a result
of the natural wear and tear on the heart
muscle that occurs with age.”
Bayshore Community Hospital
© Meridian Health 2013
MeridianHealth.com • 1-800-DOCTORS 7
Getting A Leg Up
Leg pain can signal
heart problems, especially in cases of PAD.
Jersey Shore University Medical Center
JEROME SCHUSTER, 65, HAD BEEN A CARDIOVASCULAR
patient for years. More than a decade ago, his doctors
detected and began treating plaque buildup in his
carotid artery.
When Jerome began experiencing severe leg
pain, he sought the help of Brett Sealove, M.D.,
a cardiologist at Jersey Shore University Medical
Brett A. Sealove, M.D.
Center with a subspecialty in vascular medicine and
Board certified
in Cardiovascular
part of Meridian CardioVascular Network. The
Disease and Internal
cause of Jerome’s pain turned out to be peripheral
Medicine
artery disease (PAD).
Ocean
732-663-0300
“PAD is one of the most undiagnosed and
underappreciated cardiovascular diseases,” explains
Dr. Sealove. “Half of patients never experience symptoms. Of those who
do, many have atypical leg discomfort and
cramping, which is often mistaken for
something else.”
Ask about PAD
That was true for Jerome. “I had been a
Screening Today
tractor-trailer driver and dealt with disc
problems in my back for years. I put off seeing
If you are 70 or
older or are older
than age 50 with
diabetes or a history of
smoking, ask your
doctor about PAD
screening. To learn more
about screening options,
call 1-800-560-9990 or
turn to page 23 to attend
an AngioScreen® event.
Significance of PAD
PAD occurs when the peripheral arteries in
the legs become narrow and hardened,
also called atherosclerosis. The condition
can cause debilitating symptoms in some
people and, in rare cases, lead to
amputation. It’s also a significant warning
sign of other cardiovascular issues.
“The risk factors for PAD are the same risk
factors for heart disease,” Dr. Sealove says.
“People with PAD have the same risk for a
heart attack as those who have already had a
heart attack. If you have atherosclerosis in
the leg, you also have it in the heart. You
just may not know about it.”
Simple Diagnosis
To diagnose Jerome’s condition, Dr. Sealove
conducted a number of noninvasive tests
including the ankle-brachial index, which
compares the blood pressure in the feet to
that in the arms to determine how well the
blood is flowing.
“The test is extremely simple and can be
done in any doctor’s office with blood pressure
cuffs,” says Dr. Sealove. “It saves lives.”
A New Life
Jerome Schuster always carries his camera when
he walks the Ocean Grove boardwalk. The walls
of his den are filled with his photos.
8
a doctor because I assumed my pain was just
back-related,” Jerome says.
Meridian Healthviews • JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014
The goal of treatment for PAD is to reduce
symptoms and modify lifestyle habits that
contribute to atherosclerosis. This may
include a structured walking program and
aggressive medical therapy. Because Jerome’s
condition was so severe, he needed a stent
placed in a leg artery to restore blood flow
and relieve pain.
“I went out walking soon after the
procedure and had no pain whatsoever.
It’s changed my life,” says Jerome, who
now walks on the beach each day,
carrying his camera with him everywhere
he goes. “There is always something
different and interesting to see. It makes
me want to get out and go.”
Jerome continues, “Dr. Sealove said my
results were phenomenal, and that’s just how I
feel. I’m now so much younger in every way.”
Dakota Fein has
been volunteering
at a therapeutic
horseback riding
center since
spring 2013.
The 15-year-old
wants to be a
veterinarian and
enjoys caring
for animals and
helping people.
From the Heart
A teenager is
back to running and archery.
K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital
DAKOTA FEIN IS A HEALTHY, ACTIVE 15-YEAR-OLD,
which is why it shocked everyone when she fainted
after completing a nearly two-mile run for soccer
tryouts. Her dad called 911, and an ambulance
Mitchel B.
whisked her to Jersey Shore University Medical
Alpert, M.D.
Board certified in
Center, where she immediately underwent an
Pediatric Cardiology
electrocardiogram to get a closer look at her heart.
and Pediatrics
Mitchel Alpert, M.D., a pediatric cardiologist
Brick
732-458-9666
affiliated with K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital at
Jersey Shore University Medical Center and part of
Meridian Pediatric Network, was already in the
Emergency Department and reviewed Dakota’s
electrocardiogram. “She had a very abnormal heart
rhythm,” he says. “I’d never seen anything like this
before in a 15-year-old.” Even after her heart rhythm
returned to normal, Dr. Alpert and Stephanie Chin,
M.D., a pediatric cardiologist affiliated with K.
Stephanie Chin, M.D.
Hovnanian Children’s Hospital at Jersey Shore
Board certified in
Pediatrics
University Medical Center and part of Meridian
Brick
Pediatric Network, noticed that levels of a protein in
732-458-9666
Dakota’s blood called troponin were extremely high.
“This is a marker we look for in older patients
because it suggests that there may have been a heart attack, but it’s rare to
see this number elevated in a normal, healthy adolescent,” Dr. Chin says.
Searching for Clues Yields Results
Additional testing, including a cardiac catheterization and MRI, revealed
the answer: Dakota had four abnormal electrical pathways in her heart
Complete,
Coordinated Care
for Children
Meridian Pediatric
Network has over
100 pediatric specialists,
more than 350 physicians,
and seven surgical programs
in communities near you.
To meet our expert
physicians, visit Meridian
PediatricNetwork.com.
called tracks that predispose her to
developing an abnormally fast heartbeat
during exercise.
“From the moment we arrived in the
Emergency Department, it felt like we were
the only ones there,” says Dakota’s mom,
Marie Fein. “Everyone was so diligent and
so on top of doing everything they could
to understand what was going on with
Dakota. Dr. Alpert was like a medical
detective; he was never afraid of getting
more information.” Doctors were later able
to remove the extra pathways in surgery.
Back on the Field
Today, Dakota is back to sports full time
with running, archery, and tae kwon do.
“She has so much more stamina after the
surgery,” Marie says. “Before, she didn’t
realize it was abnormal for your heart rate
to stay elevated for a while after exertion
because it was the only thing she’d ever
known and never complained.” Dakota
continues to follow up with Dr. Alpert
and Dr. Chin to make sure her heart
stays healthy.
“Sudden collapse during sports is on
every parent’s mind,” Dr. Chin says.
“Tell your kids that if they experience
symptoms during exercise such as chest
pain, near fainting, or palpitations, it’s
important for them to tell their doctor
since this may be a red flag that a bigger
issue is at play.”
MeridianHealth.com • 1-800-DOCTORS 9
Mark Risberg enjoys playing golf and doing
yard work. The Forked River resident
is happy he can now do what he loves
without pain, thanks to his new knee.
Meet Dr. Epstein
Life’s Special Moments
A Forked River man lives
a pain-free life thanks to knee surgery.
Southern ocean Medical Center
Watch our video to hear
more from Dr. Epstein!
You can also meet our other
orthopedic surgeons
specializing in total joint
replacement surgery and hear
from experts focused on your
bone and joint health at
MeridianMovementNJ.com.
MARK RISBERG IS A 55-YEAR-OLD JACK-OF-ALL-TRADES. HE IS A HUSBAND, A
father of two, a grandfather of three, a passionate traveler, an athlete, and
a hard working casino games dealer in Atlantic City. Mark has always
been active and energetic, but for years, pain threatened
to put a damper on his exciting, fast-paced life.
“I don’t like to admit when I am in pain. I’ve had an
incredible life with my wife, children, and grandchildren.
I work on my feet eight hours a day, I travel at least once a
year, and I love to play golf — but all of those moments
became much less enjoyable because of my knee pain,”
Samuel Epstein, D.O.
Mark says.
Board certified in
The pain began in 1990, when Mark tore his anterior
Orthopedic Surgery
cruciate ligament (ACL) playing a pick-up game of
Manahawkin
609-597-6092
basketball. Years later, after a lot of wear and tear and
another injury, the pain returned. He explains, “I suffered
through every activity: I couldn’t play with my grandchildren or stand up
without leaning on a stable object. My life wasn’t what I thought it would
be, and I knew it was time to get help.”
In 2012, Mark contacted Samuel Epstein, D.O., an orthopedic surgeon
and chairman of Orthopedic Surgery at Southern Ocean Medical Center.
Mark knew and trusted Dr. Epstein since he had performed surgery on
Mark’s elbow a few years earlier. Dr. Epstein performed an X-ray and an
MRI to evaluate Mark’s knee and determined the best option was a total
knee replacement.
“When determining if a patient like Mark should have a knee
replacement, we look at a combination of factors,” Dr. Epstein explains.
10 Meridian Healthviews • JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014
“Mark’s knee suffered from serious
arthritis and deformity due to all of his
injuries. That alone isn’t enough reason
to perform a total knee replacement,
though. Mark’s pain impacted his quality
of life immensely and made everyday
living difficult. In cases like Mark’s, a
knee replacement is a quality option for
patients,” Dr. Epstein says.
Mark underwent surgery on December
4, 2012, and remained in the hospital for
three days. He began physical therapy in
the hospital and then continued at
Meridian Rehabilitation at Forked River
for the next five months. “In April, I
golfed for the first time since my surgery.
I felt 100 percent better than I used to.
I also went on vacation with my wife
before going back to work, and I walked
the entire time without any pain,”
Mark says. “I owe my quality of life to
Dr. Epstein’s knowledge, confidence,
and expertise, and to the caring staff
at Southern Ocean.”
by Randi Russell
Back on the Beat
A retired Keyport cop is back in
action after minimally invasive surgery.
Bayshore Community Hospital
KEN MARR, 47, OF HAZLET, IS A LONGTIME
resident and first responder in the
Bayshore community. He has served
as a police officer and a member of the
Keyport Volunteer Fire Department for
the past 26 years, serving as department
chief and as past president of the
Bayshore Active Fire Chiefs Association.
For the past five years, Ken has also
battled severe diverticulitis, a condition
in which the weak pouches in a
person’s colon become infected or
inflamed. As active as Ken is, he knew
that he had to get this condition under
control if he was to continue enjoying
his fast-paced lifestyle.
“I have had diverticulitis for years and
my gastroenterologist recommended
surgery, but I never had it,” Ken says.
Ken Marr started
working for the
Keyport Police
Department
in 1988. The
47-year-old
retired in
November 2013.
In March 2012, Ken’s symptoms flared
up once again, and he went to Riverview
Medical Center. He was hospitalized and
received intravenous antibiotics because his
condition had caused a tear in his colon.
Ken knew it was time to have the surgery.
“Thanks to a few personal referrals, I
found Dr. Lauren Fischer and found out
that she performs laparoscopic surgeries,
which meant the surgery wouldn’t be too
invasive,” Ken says. “I also learned that
Dr. Fischer was on staff at Bayshore,
which would be convenient for my
wife and family living in Hazlet.”
Early in the morning of June 10, 2013,
Ken arrived at Bayshore for his surgery,
a laparoscopic colon resection.
According to Lauren Fischer, M.D., a
board certified general surgeon who is
fellowship trained
in minimally
invasive surgery,
a laparoscopic
colon resection for
diverticulitis is
performed to prevent recurrence after
many attacks, to treat complications from
acute flares, and to treat complications of
diverticulitis, such as narrowing of the
colon. This is done by removing the
affected section of the colon and rejoining
the remaining sections.
“Diverticulitis can sometimes be
managed without surgery through
lifestyle changes and a high-fiber diet,”
Dr. Fischer says. “However, if someone
experiences repeated attacks, surgery is
recommended. Thanks to advances in
technology, the procedure can be
performed with just small keyhole
incisions, about 4 to 5 inches, as opposed
to open surgery. This provides patient
benefits such as shorter hospital stays,
shorter recovery times, and fewer
complications.”
After a successful surgery, Ken spent
a week recovering in the hospital, an
experience that he describes as
“phenomenal.”
“It was a five-star, class-A experience,”
Ken says. “The level of care was top-notch,
and everyone made me and my wife feel
comfortable and confident. Bayshore has
really done a lot to make improvements.
I would recommend the hospital, staff,
and Dr. Fischer to anyone.”
by Caitlin Coyle
Lauren J. Fischer,
M.D. Board certified
in General Surgery
Holmdel
732-847-3300
Taking Care of the Community
Since joining the Meridian Health family
in 2010, Bayshore has attracted more than
179 new physicians and added new specialties,
including bariatric surgery and a new joint
replacement program. Bayshore also recently
earned a high-peforming ranking in neurology
and neurosurgery from U.S. News & World Report.
Learn more about all of the exciting changes at
BayshoreHospital.org/Beginning.
MeridianHealth.com • 1-800-DOCTORS 11
Back to What Matters Most
Riverview Medical Center
After a decade of pain, a new device delivers relief to Whiting man.
FOR 10 YEARS, LOUIS TURANO, NOW 84, SUFFERED
from excruciating back pain. It started when he
fell off a ladder in 2003 and fractured two
vertebrae in his spine. Over the years he
received several different treatments, including
physical therapy, steroid injections, and even
surgery. Although he’d experience short-term
relief, the pain always returned.
Eventually, the pain became even worse
when Louis developed sciatica, in which the
sciatic nerve — a large nerve running from
his low back to his legs — became
irritated. “Any time I would sit or kneel down and try to get back up I’d
be in terrible pain,” he says. Even daily actions, like walking, sitting, or
going up stairs became difficult to do, and the pain kept Louis from
some of his favorite activities like working in the yard or dancing with
his wife Helen. “Before the pain became too much,” Louis says, “we used
to dance like crazy.”
Sean Li, M.D.
Board certified in
Interventional Pain
Management and
Anesthesiology
Shrewsbury
732-380-0200
Bruce
Rosenblum, M.D.
Board certified in
Neurosurgery
Shrewsbury
732-460-1522
Eighty-four-year-old Louis
Turano and his wife,
Helen, met in high school.
12 Meridian Healthviews • JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014
Another option for Pain
Louis had been working with Sean Li, M.D., a pain management
specialist affiliated with Riverview Medical Center, to control the
pain. Earlier this year, Louis’ doctors offered him a new option:
neurostimulation.
“Neurostimulation is like a pacemaker for your spinal cord,” says
Dr. Li. “The device sends electrical impulses to the spinal cord and
blocks out pain signals to the brain. It produces a mild buzzing
vibration to the spine, which prevents the pain signal from getting
through to the brain. So while the pain may still be there,
the patient doesn’t experience it as much.”
Bruce Rosenblum, M.D., a neurosurgeon at Riverview and part
of Meridian Neuroscience, informed Louis that he could try the
device — without having surgery — for a few days. The results were
convincing. “After about five days, it seemed to be working and my
wife could already tell I was moving better, so I decided to move
forward with the surgery,” Louis says.
“Dr. Li and Dr. Rosenblum make a great team,” Louis says. “They
explained exactly how it works, what the surgery would involve, and
what we could expect. Everything was so well-organized, and they
made me feel completely ready once we decided to have the surgery.”
The operation is performed using minimally invasive techniques.
Dr. Rosenblum made two small incisions in Louis’ back. The first was
just big enough to place the tiny electrodes that transmit the electrical
impulses on his spine. The second fit the stopwatch-sized pulse
generator that powers the electrodes. Most patients go home either
the same or next day.
Going a Cut Above
As sophisticated as neurostimulation may seem, there are two
components that make the technology Louis had
implanted even more advanced. The first is the internal
GPS system, which automatically adjusts the stimulation
depending on what position he’s in, whether he’s sitting,
standing, or lying down. “As a result, it delivers the best
possible stimulation for each different activity for
continuous pain relief,” Dr. Rosenblum says.
The Days of Counting
Sheep are Over.
It’s also safe for patients to undergo an
MRI, which wasn’t the case in the past
because the magnet in the MRI could
damage the wires. Louis’ neurostimulator
has thermal insulated wires that keep it
safe during an MRI. “Being able to have
an MRI is a huge deal because many
patients have additional conditions and
an MRI is often the best imaging
available to us,” Dr. Li adds. In fact, after
having the device implanted, Louis safely
underwent an MRI to examine a separate
issue in his neck.
Gracefully Returning to the Dance Floor
Within weeks of the surgery, Louis’ pain,
which was once a 10 on a 10-point scale,
had improved by 75 percent. He no
longer needs any of the pain medication
he used to take daily.
“Before, even walking was painful,
but I recently spent five hours outside
working in the yard and felt fine,” Louis
says. This fall, he and his wife even went
dancing for the first time in years.
“Despite my wobbly legs, I was able to
dance pretty well without the pain that
used to drag me down,” he says. “I’m
hoping we can do it again soon.”
Another Patient Free
From Back Pain
The moment the disc in Steve
Ham’s back herniated, he fell to his
knees in pain. Dr. Rosenblum helped him
get back up and running. To hear Steve’s
story, go to MeridianNeuroscience.com.
Introducing the new Center for Sleep Medicine
at Bayshore Community Hospital.
Our Center will make you feel right at home, with private rooms and bathrooms,
comfortable beds, flat-screen televisions, and recliner chairs all within a
contemporary setting. In the morning guests are provided with toiletries to
freshen up and may enjoy a light breakfast before starting their day.
The Center is led by board certified sleep medicine physicians and staffed by a team of trained sleep technologists
who employ a comprehensive approach to diagnosing and treating your sleep disorders, while our dedicated nurse
navigator is available to guide you through the entire process.
The effects of sleep disorders are not only tiresome, but can lead to more serious health conditions if left
untreated. Stop counting sheep, call 855.267.1181 to learn more about our Center or visit
www.BayshoreHospital.org/Sleep and take a virtual tour.
Taking Care of
The Sleep Centers of Meridian Neuroscience are located in five
New Jersey
convenient locations throughout Monmouth and Ocean counties.
Part of Meridian Neuroscience
MeridianHealth.com • 1-800-DOCTORS 13
Woman on the Go
Robotic surgery helps a
Toms River woman to get back on her feet.
Jersey Shore University Medical Center
TOMS RIVER RESIDENT SUSAN CAMPANILE
knew something wasn’t right when she
began sporadically bleeding 12 years after
her last period. The problem was not
only a nuisance, but also a sign of a
growing health concern.
The 60-year-old made an appointment
with Jocelyn Carlo, M.D., a gynecological
surgeon at the Center for Robotic Surgery
at Jersey Shore University Medical Center.
Tests to determine the exact cause of
Susan’s problem were inconclusive.
Postmenopausal bleeding can occur for
many reasons, such as abnormal growths
Susan Campanile enjoys
doing puzzles and spending
time with her new grandson.
She looks forward to
the arrival of her next
grandchild in early 2014.
in the uterus or cervix, changes in the
uterine lining, or uterine cancer.
“I could have chosen to continue testing
to pinpoint the reason for my bleeding,
but since I was already past menopause, I
opted to have a hysterectomy right away,”
Susan explains. “Dr. Carlo gave me the
option of minimally invasive robotic surgery.”
Surgical Precision, Faster Recovery
Robotic-assisted hysterectomy allows the
surgeon to perform a full hysterectomy
through just four small holes the size
of a dime.
“With experience, robotic surgery is
more accurate than open surgery or
traditional laparoscopy. The robotic arms
mimic movements of the human wrist
but eliminate hand tremor and allow for
a greater range of motion,” Dr. Carlo
explains. “In addition, the approach
provides a view of the surgery site at 10
times the magnification, providing a
tremendous level of detail.”
Due to its accuracy and tiny incisions,
patients recover quickly from robotic
hysterectomy. Compared with open
surgery, which requires six to eight weeks
of recovery, most robotic patients are
back to normal life within days.
“Today, women can’t afford to take
weeks off from their jobs, families, and
responsibilities,” Dr. Carlo says. “This
option provides exceptional results and
allows women to get
back to life much
quicker.”
Jumping Back into Life
After researching her
options, Susan chose
robotic surgery with
Jocelyn A. Carlo, M.D.
Board certified
Dr. Carlo. It went
in Obstetricsflawlessly. Susan spent
Gynecology
just one night at Jersey
Wall
732-974-8404
Shore and was home
the next day. She and
her husband even stopped for dinner at
a restaurant after leaving the hospital.
“I had minimal pain that required no
post-op medication. My bleeding had
completely stopped, and two days
later, we were out for the evening with
friends,” Susan recalls. “I felt great. It
was unbelievable.
Robotic-Assisted Surgery at
Meridian Health
At Jersey Shore University Medical Center,
robotic-assisted surgery is revolutionizing
the way physicians operate on patients with certain
colorectal, gynecologic, and urologic conditions. To
learn more about our Center for Robotic Surgery, go
to JerseyShoreUniversityMedicalCenter.com and look
under “Services.”
14 Meridian Healthviews • JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014
Edward and Lorraine Armstrong
enjoy watching the boats go by
while sitting in their backyard,
which runs along the Point
Pleasant Canal.
Long-Term Treatment
for Successful Healing
A Healing Touch
Individualized wound care at
Ocean promotes healthy healing.
ocean Medical Center
Once Edward was admitted
to the hospital, he
underwent surgery to drain
the infection on his foot. He
Scott R. Cluley, M.D.
was later discharged and set
Board certified in
up with Meridian At Home
General Surgery
for home wound care visits.
Brick
732-202-1500
After two months of home
care, Edward was sent to
the Center for Wound Healing at Ocean Medical
Center because the wound did not show
improvement. At the Center, Edward met Scott
Cluley, M.D., a vascular surgeon, who evaluated
Edward’s wound.
Since Edward’s wound failed to heal after surgery
and home care visits, Dr. Cluley determined weekly
visits to the Center for Wound Healing were the
best treatment option. “Using compression wraps
to control swelling, applying a treatment that uses
bioengineered tissue to promote healing, and
weekly evaluations with wound cleaning ultimately
allowed the wound to fully heal in a timely
fashion,” Dr. Cluley explains.
Individualized Care from a Multi-Disciplinary Team
EDWARD ARMSTRONG, 83, OF POINT PLEASANT,
came home to New Jersey in March 2012 after
enjoying four months catching shrimp, spending
time with his wife, and relaxing in Florida. Two
days after returning home, Edward woke up
feeling uncomfortable and noticed an infection on
the top of his left foot. “I looked down and my
whole leg was black and blue, and the infection
was discolored,” Edward says. Edward called 911
and was brought to the Emergency Department
at Ocean Medical Center.
Wound Center Heals Lives
The experts at the Center for Wound Healing
at Ocean Medical Center provide treatment and
care that results in a wound healing rate consistently
more than 95 percent. To learn how we can customize
a personal treatment plan for you at a Meridian Wound
Center, visit MeridianHealth.com/Wound.
Edward received treatment at the Center for two
and a half months until his wound was completely
healed. “Once a patient has access to the Center for
Wound Healing, they have access to a multidisciplinary team of vascular surgeons, general
surgeons, nurses, and other medical professionals
who provide individualized care for each and every
patient,” Dr. Cluley says. “The team at the Center
for Wound Healing focuses wholly on the wound
and provides treatment for successful healing.”
Edward couldn’t be more grateful for the care
he received.
“I am finally able to put on shoes and get
back on my feet after being treated by
Dr. Cluley and the team at the Center,” he
says. “Dr. Cluley was supportive, instructive,
and always followed up with me. The entire
experience felt very personal, and I couldn’t
have asked for a better team.”
by Randi Russell
MeridianHealth.com • 1-800-DOCTORS 15
Making a Difference
Prevention and wellness help
keep the community heart-healthy.
Meridian Health
IF YOUR LIFE HAS BEEN TOUCHED BY CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE, YOU’RE NOT
alone. It’s the leading cause of death in the state of New Jersey, accounting
for more than one out of every four fatalities. And millions of people
nationwide are living with the disease.
Meridian understands you and your family deserve expert diagnosis and
treatment of cardiovascular issues, and we provide the highest level of
cardiovascular care through Meridian CardioVascular Network.
Comprehensive Cardiovascular Services
Supported by expert physicians, nurses, and health care professionals,
Meridian CardioVascular Network brings together expertise in prevention,
diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation. Although the Network is nationally
recognized for cutting-edge treatment of cardiovascular disease, helping our
communities reduce risk, prevent disease, and improve overall wellness
remains a top priority.
Patty Micale is the
chairperson of the
Women’s Heart Fund.
That’s why Meridian CardioVascular
Network provides wellness and
prevention services like AngioScreen®
and continues to raise community
awareness through events like the
Heart and Sole Cup.
Powerful Heart Health Knowledge
For the past seven years, the Women’s
Heart Fund has been educating people
about the importance of heart health, as
well as raising funds for heart-related
programs, services, and technology for
Meridian Health. Their efforts have
helped thousands of people gain access
to valuable diagnostic and prevention
services. One way they’ve accomplished
this is through a revolutionary vascular
screening called AngioScreen.
“There is no pain or probing. It’s a
simple, nonthreatening test,” explains
Patty Micale, chairperson of the Women’s
Heart Fund. “But the results can save
lives. Already, 3,000 individuals have
been served by Meridian’s AngioScreen.”
16 Meridian Healthviews • JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014
Meridian CardioVascular
Network Goes the Distance
From hypertension to congestive
heart failure to PAD, Meridian
CardioVascular Network’s experts provide
information, prevention, and treatment
options for a healthy heart at all of our
cardiovascular events. To attend an event,
turn to page 23 for dates and times!
The Women’s Heart Fund continues their
mission throughout the community. Over
the next two years, the Fund has committed
to raise $100,000 to support the building of
a family waiting room in the new Cardiac
Thoracic Intensive Care Unit (CTICU) at
Jersey Shore University Medical Center.
Strides Toward Better Health
Noel Whitall had a strong finish
at this year’s Meridian Heart and Sole Cup 5K held at Jersey Shore.
The Women’s Heart Fund donated more than $100,000 to acquire two
complete sets of AngioScreening equipment, including portable ECG,
dopplar, and ultrasound machines. The screening team travels by coach
throughout the region, visiting senior centers, corporations, and other
entities. The Women’s Heart Fund also provides funding to help cover the
$75 cost for AngioScreen for people in need.
The 10-minute screening assesses a number of important heart- and
vascular-related issues, including heart rhythm, circulation, plaque,
abdominal aorta aneurysm, blood pressure, and overall fitness.
“The test provides valuable information that can guide your heart health,”
Patty says. “The Meridian nurses who administer AngioScreen are
exceptional. They go over results with
you immediately so you can use the
information to talk with your doctor
and make lifestyle changes, if needed.”
Meridian Health’s Heart and Sole Cup was
created to motivate the community to get
active — a key factor in the prevention of
heart disease. It involves a series of three
races comprised of the Ocean Medical
Center 5K, Bayshore Community Hospital
5K, and Jersey Shore University Medical
Center 5K.
Toms River resident Noel Whitall, 35, not
only participated in all three races at the
2013 Heart and Sole Cup, she was the
women’s overall winner.
“Running is my passion and stress release.
It’s my go-to when I need to get away,”
explains Noel, who is an elementary school
teacher and also coaches the girls cross
country and track teams at Toms River
North High School. “I also love that running
keeps me healthy and in shape. I’m glad I
can still compete against younger women
and look to older women runners as
inspiration.”
Although Noel enjoys racing when she has
the time and runs seven to 10 miles each
day of the week, she encourages people of
all levels to just get started.
“Find what drives you — whether it’s
improving your health, losing weight, or
running a certain distance.
Then take the first step,”
Noel says. “You’re a winner
by just getting out there.”
MeridianHealth.com • 1-800-DOCTORS 17
All for one
Meridian Cancer Care teamed
up to treat Mary White’s breast cancer.
Jersey Shore University Medical Center
LAST MAY, MARY WHITE WAS EXPERIENCING
Moving Forward
pain in her right shoulder, which prompted
the 75-year-old Aberdeen resident to visit her
doctor. It was then that her doctor discovered
a lump in her right breast and immediately
referred her to Jersey Shore University
Medical Center for a mammogram and
ultrasound.
In June, Mary and her husband, Horace,
met with Denise Johnson-Miller, M.D., a
breast surgeon and part of Meridian Cancer
Care. Dr. Miller performed a variety of tests,
including a mammogram and a biopsy.
Mary was eventually diagnosed with stage 2
breast cancer.
In July 2013, Dr. Miller performed the outpatient
Denise L. Johnsonprocedure to remove the lump in Mary’s breast and lymph
Miller, M.D.
node tissues. Mary was able to return home the next day.
Board certified in
“Everyone has been so supportive during the whole
General Surgery
Neptune
process,” Mary says. “I was never alone. My husband
732-263-7960
and family are always with me, and I know I have a
great doctor.”
Since the operation in July, Mary is healthy again. She is on a six-month
radiation therapy plan to ensure the cancer doesn’t return. “After my diagnosis,
I always knew I was in good hands,” Mary says. “Dr. Miller led me along the
way, and I was able to feel very comfortable and confident.”
by Travis Taylor
Rallying the Troops
Mary White is back to
enjoying walks with her
husband, Horace. She also
loves going to Macy’s in
New York City.
Mary was assigned a nurse navigator, Betty
Moore, R.N., to help coordinate her care.
Betty worked with Mary’s doctors,
radiologists, and pathologists — every
member of her cancer care team — to
streamline all aspects of Mary’s care. “I really
can’t say enough about our nurse navigators,”
says Dr. Miller. “I think of them as
personalized health care advocates, assisting
patients from the second they walk through
our doors.”
In late June, Mary’s
case was discussed at
Meet Our Nurse
the Meridian Cancer
Navigators!
Care team’s weekly
multi-disciplinary
Our registered nurse
conference. During
navigators assure
these meetings, a team
individualized assistance,
of doctors and
support, and services for
specialists typically
those diagnosed with cancer.
review pathology,
Working across a patient’s
X-rays, and clinical
entire cancer team, nurse
cases to form patients’
navigators help coordinate all
treatment plans. Her
aspects of cancer patient
care team decided the
care. Meet the team at
best treatment option
MeridianCancerCareNJ.com.
for Mary was a
lumpectomy and
sentinel lymph node biopsy — a procedure
where “tissue is removed from lymph nodes
to test for cancer and correctly stage the
patient’s breast cancer,” Dr. Miller says.
18 Meridian Healthviews • JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014
A Breath of Fresh Air
Advanced surgery offers relief after
a half century of sinus struggles.
Riverview Medical Center
Walter Joyce enjoys rebuilding
and refurbishing antique
furniture. Most recently, he
refurbished a 110-year-old
fireplace mantle.
FOR AS LONG AS HE COULD REMEMBER,
73-year-old Walter Joyce suffered from
chronic sinusitis. Every year, he developed
five or six sinus infections and battled
recurring headaches, postnasal drip, a
runny nose, and allergies. The Toms River
resident’s ongoing sinus problems also
aggravated his other medical conditions,
including chronic obstructive pulmonary
disease (COPD) and sleep apnea.
After years of searching for a solution,
Walter finally found Frank Scaccia, M.D.,
an ear, nose, and throat specialist for
Riverview Medical Center.
“I saw countless doctors throughout
the years, but they all told me there was
nothing they could do,” Walter recalls.
“Dr. Scaccia was the first doctor who
could offer me relief.”
Precision, Safety for Complex Surgery
Walter’s case was complicated because
years of sinus problems had
thinned and inflamed the inner
Take a Tour With us
lining of his nose, almost
completely obstructing his
Dr. Scaccia was able to perform
Join us on a virtual tour
nasal passages and wearing
the surgery without damaging
of your Riverview surgical
away some cartilage. As a
Walter’s remaining cartilage yet
experience, where you will have a
result, Walter was not a
allow access to remove the
chance to see our facility, learn
Frank J. Scaccia, M.D
candidate for traditional
deformed cartilage. The approach
about new technology — such as
Board Certified in
surgical options.
also protected Walter’s eyes, brain,
Otolaryngology and
Brainsuite iCT — and meet some
“I needed to get beyond
and other structures close to the
Facial Plastic Surgery
key people on your care team. Visit
Red Bank
Walter’s damaged cartilage
sinuses.Walter spent one night at
RiverviewMedicalCenter.com/
732-747-5300
in order to fix his deviated
Riverview and was home the next
ExperienceMatters.
septum, open his nasal
day. Since then, his life has
passages, and drain his
completely changed.
sinuses,” Dr. Scaccia explains.
“The procedure would not
Results Boost Quality of Life
have been possible without
“I am absolutely amazed at my results. I haven’t had a sinus infection since
an endoscopic approach.
the surgery. My allergies no longer bother me, and I’m breathing and
It provided excellent
sleeping better,” says Walter, who works full-time as an electrical engineer.
visualization, safety, and
“I can also enjoy hobbies like woodworking without problems.”
Adrian M.
Pristas, M.D.
precision.”
The surgery also improved his other medical conditions.
Board Certified in
Dr. Scaccia guided the
“When Walter was unable to breathe well through his nose, it worsened
Pulmonology
endoscope along with tiny,
his shortness of breath and aggravated his COPD,” explains Adrian Pristas,
Hazlet
732-847-3600
state-of-the-art medical
M.D., Walter’s pulmonologist. “In addition, he could not effectively inhale
instruments and high-definition
the oxygen he used at night to help him maintain a good oxygen level.”
cameras into Walter’s nasal and sinus
Now that Walter’s nasal passages are open, he is out of breath less often.
cavities using advanced Brainlab technology
He has reduced his oxygen use at night from six liters to less than two.
in the Brainsuite iCT at Riverview. Brainlab
“Because of Dr. Scaccia, I have a new lease on life,” Walter says. “I couldn’t
provides precise navigation. As a result,
be happier.”
MeridianHealth.com • 1-800-DOCTORS 19
Dancing Through Life
Young Manasquan woman is back on
the dance floor after a surprising type 1 diabetes diagnosis.
Bayshore Community Hospital
SUPERSTORM SANDY WILL BE REMEMBERED BY
Help to Get Back on Track
everyone at the Jersey Shore. For 24-year-old
Emily Caputo, however, memories of the
storm will include something even more
life-changing than home and beach damage.
A recent college graduate with a degree in
dance and education, Emily had returned to
her Manasquan home, substitute teaching
during the day and teaching dance at night.
“When the storm came, my family and I
were evacuated and things changed in a way
I never expected,” Emily says. “I felt very
thirsty and was constantly running to the
bathroom. I was tired and fatigued and knew
it wasn’t just stress from being displaced
from home.”
Emily went to her pediatrician, Stephen
Shroyer, M.D., part of Meridian Pediatric
Network,, who gave her blood and urine tests
that revealed her sugar level was sky-high.
Emily was referred to Marina Rabkin, a dietician and
Jennifer Zaitz, D.O.
certified diabetes educator at Bayshore. Together, Dr. Zaitz,
Board certified in
Emily, and Marina have worked so Emily could learn to
Internal Medicine
Holmdel
control her diabetes through exercise, eating right, and
732-450-2925
taking her insulin.
“My blood sugar has been in control, and I have not had
to change my career — which means a lot because I love to dance and teach
dance,” Emily says. “I am so grateful Dr. Zaitz took the time to educate me
and help me continue living a normal life. I have learned that with proper
guidance and support from my doctor, family, and friends, there is nothing I
can’t do, even with type 1 diabetes.”
by Caitlin Coyle
Emily Caputo lives along the
Manasquan Inlet and enjoys
teaching dance classes
to her pre-K through
grade 12 students.
A Surprising Diagnosis
Knowing his daughter has normally been
healthy, Emily’s father recommended she see a
specialist. He referred her to Jennifer Zaitz,
D.O., an endocrinologist on staff at Bayshore
Community Hospital. Dr. Zaitz ran more tests
and confirmed what her father, a podiatrist
familiar with symptoms of diabetes, had
suspected — Emily had type 1 diabetes.
Dr. Zaitz gave Emily medication to get her
blood sugar to an acceptable level and sat
down with her to discuss her condition.
According to Dr. Zaitz, type 1 diabetes
most commonly develops in children but can
start at any age. There are two kinds of type 1
diabetes: idiopathic type 1 diabetes and
immune-mediated diabetes, which is more
common. With type 1 diabetes, the body’s
immune system attempts to destroy the
insulin-producing cells in the pancreas,
depriving the cells of nutrition.
“Specific treatment for diabetes
depends on the individual person,
but it will require daily insulin injections and
monitoring of blood sugar levels,” Dr. Zaitz
says. “Above all, though, treatment of the
disease comes down to lifestyle changes and
learning to manage the condition through
appropriate diet, exercise, and monitoring.”
20 Meridian Healthviews • JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014
Join Us for Diabetes
Education
Diabetes can decrease
blood flow and damage
nerves in the feet, so even
common scrapes and bumps
can cause serious problems if
they’re not treated properly. The
Center for Wound Healing can
help. Learn more about our new
Center and take a tour at
MeridianHealth.com/Wound.
Take Comfort
The new Martin Truex Jr. Pediatric Care
Center provides convenient, coordinated care.
Southern ocean Medical Center
OWEN COURTNEY IS AN ACTIVE 6-YEAR-OLD FROM LITTLE EGG
Harbor. He rarely gets sick, has never been to the hospital, and has
an upbeat, positive attitude. That is why his mom, Tanya Courtney,
knew something was seriously wrong the morning Owen wouldn’t
get out of bed because of severe leg pain.
“Owen’s pain began one evening around 5:00 p.m.,
but it didn’t seem to affect him too much, so we put
him to bed,” Tanya explains. The next morning,
Owen was in so much pain that he screamed when his
parents touched his leg. Tanya knew Owen needed to
go to the Emergency Department at Southern Ocean
Michael Bleiman, M.D.
Medical Center.
Board certified in
At Southern Ocean, Owen was treated in the Martin
Pediatrics
Manahawkin
Truex Jr. Pediatric Care Center. When he arrived at the
609-978-9639
Pediatric Care Center, Owen was limping and had
severe hip pain, so he received an X-ray immediately.
The X-ray and an ultrasound showed fluid in his hip. Michael
Bleiman, M.D., a pediatrician at Southern Ocean and part of
Meridian Pediatric Network, ordered an ultrasound-guided
aspiration to extract the fluid from Owen’s hip. Thomas Yu, M.D., a
radiologist at Southern Ocean, performed the procedure. The fluid
was then sent for multiple tests to determine the possibility of a viral
or bacterial infection or some other disease. Dr. Bleiman treated
Owen with steroids, antibiotics, and pain medication while
Owen Courtney is active, outgoing, and
loves being outdoors. This is the first
grader’s first year playing soccer.
observing him through the night. Owen was
later diagnosed with viral synovitis, an
infection that causes hip pain, usually affecting
children younger than age 8.
Within 24 hours, Owen’s symptoms
subsided, and he was released from the
hospital within 48 hours. “Our new Pediatric
Care Center is such a great place for children
with this type of condition,” Dr. Bleiman says.
“With six private rooms and an overnight
observation room, patients like Owen and
their families can feel comfortable while
receiving the care they deserve,” he says.
The Pediatric Care Center gives children
the opportunity to be treated in their own
space so they are not confronted with adult
emergencies. Not only does the Center provide
quality care for patients close to home, it also
offers access to more than 100 pediatric
specialists at K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital
at Jersey Shore University Medical Center for
children requiring further treatment.
“For a child who has never been to an
Emergency Department, Owen felt safe and at
ease at the Pediatric Care Center,” Tanya says.
“It is so comforting to know that we have this
type of care for our children right in our
own community.”
by Randi Russell
Creating A New
Experience for Kids
As part of Meridian Pediatric
Network, the Pediatric Care
Center provides access to more than
100 pediatric specialists for surgery,
trauma, intensive care, and specialty
care. To learn how the Center truly
meets children’s unique needs, visit
SouthernOceanMedicalCenter.com.
MeridianHealth.com • 1-800-DOCTORS 21
Events
calendar
All programs are FREE unless otherwise noted. Reserve
your spot by calling 1-800-DOCTORS (1-800-362-8677)
or 1-800-560-9990 or by visiting MeridianHealth.com.
In cases of severe weather, a program may be canceled as
late as an hour before the start time. Call 1-800-DOCTORS
or 1-800-560-9990 to confirm.
Red Dress Event
Meridian
CardioVascular Network
Meridian Women’s Heart Connection presents The Heart Truth
campaign’s Red Dress Collection. View designer dresses fresh
off the runway from New York’s Spring 2014 Fashion Week.
Enjoy a heart-healthy menu, door prizes, and giveaways. Most
important, learn how to live a heart-healthy lifestyle. Tickets
are $50, and a portion of the proceeds will benefit Meridian
CardioVascular Network.
MERIDIAN WoMEN’S HEART
CoNNECTIoN
❤ Joyful Heart Tea
thurSday, February 20, 7:00 – 9:30 p.m.
Speaker: monica baiS, m.d.
Watermark, 800 Ocean Avenue, Asbury Park
February 20, 10:00 – 11:30 a.m.
registration is required; call 1-800-DOCTORS.
For more information, please visit 365DaysofHeart.com.
Meridian Cancer Care
Fresh Start Smoking Cessation
This four-session smoking cessation
program is offered by Meridian Cancer
Care and the American Cancer Society.
Learn techniques to live a smoke-free life.
january 7, 9, 14, & 16, 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
O Conference Room C
Stop Smoking with Hypnosis
Hypnotherapy is effective in alleviating
unwanted habits and developing positive
behaviors and changes. Fee: $30.
january 13 & February 10, 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.
MFW Hazlet
February 12, 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.
F RC Stafford Township
Look Good, Feel Better
The American Cancer Society offers this
program to individuals being treated for
cancer. Learn makeup and hair tips to
make you look and feel better. To register,
call 1-800-227-2345.
january 13, 10:00 a.m. – noon
R Community Room
February 24, 1:00 – 3:00 p.m.
F RC Stafford Township
LoCATIoN KEY
B
R
VISIT 365DAYSoFHEART.CoM
FoR A CoMPLETE LIST oF
oUR HEART EVENTS!
bayshore community hospital
riverview medical center
22 Meridian Healthviews • JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014
New Year – New Ideas
Mark Martens, M.D., will discuss the
latest information on cervical cancer
screening, new clinical research studies,
and important steps women should take
to ensure optimal health.
january 31, 9:30 – 11:00 a.m.
J Lance Auditorium
Colorectal Lecture and
Screening
Learn the risk factors and how early
detection can save your life. Free
colorectal screening kits will be provided.
Enjoy tea and heart-healthy delights while
learning how to keep your heart healthy.
February 13, 12:30 – 2:00 p.m.
B Conference Room A
Meridian Health Village at Jackson
❤ Women and Heart Disease
Learn your risk for heart disease and the
different symptoms that women may
experience.
February 6, 1:00 – 2:00 p.m.
Middletown Senior Center
900 Leonardville Road
February 14, 11:00 a.m. – noon
F RC Stafford Township
Hypertension
Manage hypertension through lifestyle
changes.
january 9, 11:00 a.m. – noon
J Brennan Rooms 104/105
january 14, 11:00 a.m. – noon
February 11, 1:00 – 2:00 p.m.
F RC Stafford Township
Children’s Art Therapy
Care to Be Aware Educational
Seminar
F RC Stafford Township
Meridian Cancer Care offers art therapy
for children ages 4 ½ to 13 who have
experienced a loss or are dealing with
a chronically or terminally ill loved one.
Registration is required. Call 732-530-2382.
Jeffrey Hager, D.O., will discuss
cardiovascular disease and vascular
screenings. A light breakfast will be served.
Breast Health Awareness
Living with Congestive Heart
Failure
Meridian Health is proud to partner
with Susan G. Komen to promote breast
health awareness. If your women’s group
is interested in hosting a breast health
awareness program, call 732-751-3457.
J
O
S
jersey Shore university medical center
ocean medical center
Southern ocean medical center
january 15, 9:00 – 11:30 a.m.
F RC Stafford Township
Maximize your quality of life while living
with congestive heart failure.
january 30, 11:00 a.m. – noon
MFW Hazlet
F RC
Family resource center at the ocean club,
Stafford township
MFW meridian Fitness and Wellness
Meridian Neuroscience
Peripheral Artery Disease
PAD is a common circulatory problem in
which narrowed arteries reduce blood
flow to your limbs. Learn about causes,
symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment
options from Owano Pennycooke, M.D.
February 4, 11:00 a.m. – noon
MFW Hazlet
Healthy Heart at Any Age
Liana Spano-Brennan, D.O., will share the
latest information on heart health and
the keys to living a heart-healthy life.
February 5, 11:00 A.M. – Noon
J Brennan Rooms 104/105
Cholesterol Update
Learn the difference between good and
bad cholesterol, risk factors, treatment
options, and how to get your numbers
under control.
February 7, 11:00 a.m. – noon
F RC Stafford Township
Risk Factors for Heart Disease
Learn about the signs and symptoms,
risk factors, and prevention of heart
disease.
February 10, 11:00 a.m. – noon
MFW Hazlet
Speaker: Sean Altneu, D.O.
February 18, 11:00 A.M. – noon
Neptune Public Library, 25 Neptune Blvd.
Spine Surgery: Is It for Me?
Simon Salerno, M.D., will discuss the
latest in spine health, including surgical
and nonsurgical treatment options.
january 7, 2:00 – 3:00 p.m.
J Brennan Rooms 104/105
Are You Getting a Good Night’s
Sleep?
Improving Balance Through
Exercise
Learn the importance of exercise to
maintain balance and how to minimize
your risk for falls. Free balance
screenings will be provided.
February 19
MFW Hazlet
Lecture: 11:00 a.m. – noon
Screenings: noon – 1:00 p.m.
Do you snore, have sleep apnea, or
suffer from insomnia? Pulmonologist
Adrian Pristas, M.D., will discuss what
you can do to help get a better night’s
sleep.
Memory Loss
January 23, 11:00 a.m. – noon
january 14, 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.
MFW Hazlet
If you or a loved one is experiencing
increased memory loss, you may
benefit from this lecture. Free memory
screenings to follow lecture.
J Brennan Rooms 104/105
Caregiving for the Person with
Dementia
Co-sponsored by the Alzheimer’s
Association, this program focuses on
areas of concern for those treating a
loved one or patients with Alzheimer’s
disease. A continental breakfast is
provided.
February 15, 9:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
S Conference Center
Stroke: Are You At Risk?
Learn the signs and symptoms, risk
factors, and prevention of stroke.
February 18, 11:00 a.m. – noon
MFW Hazlet
Speaker: Richard Rhee, M.D.
Parkinson’s Life Enrichment
Exercise Class
Designed and administered by physical
therapists and exercise specialists, this
program helps people with Parkinson’s
improve their flexibility, balance, and
strength. For pricing and registration, call
732-836-4007.
Meridian Pediatric Network
Car Seat Safety Check
Sponsored by the New Jersey State
Police and the Trauma Center at Jersey
Shore University Medical Center. No
registration is necessary.
First Tuesday of each month, 3:00 – 7:00 p.m.
J
AngioScreen®
Learn your risk for heart attack and stroke. This vascular
screening includes carotid artery ultrasound, heart rhythm
(atrial fibrillation), blood pressure, abdominal aortic
aneurysm, peripheral artery disease (PAD), and body mass
index. Participants receive an instant color report of the
findings, educational material, and a private consultation with
a registered nurse. And to celebrate Heart Month, the screening
is just $49.95. Registration is required.
January 8, 9:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
February 12, 1:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Heart
Month
Disc
ount
$49.9
5
January 23, 1:00 – 7:30 p.m.
February 28, 9:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
O East Wing, Conference Room A
J Brennan Rooms 104/105
January 10, 9:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
February 1, 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
R Two River Conference Suite
MFW Hazlet
January 17, 9:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
February 19, 10:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
F RC Stafford Township
Safe Sitter
Meridian offers babysitting training
for boys and girls ages 11 to 14. This
class will review safety for both the
babysitters and children left in their care
in a fun learning environment. The class
includes handling emergencies, first aid,
and CPR. Fee: $40.
January 20, 9:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Red Bank First Aid Building, Red Bank
January 20, 9:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
F RC Stafford Township
February 17, 9:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
MFW Hazlet
279 Mathistown Road, Little Egg Harbor
February 25, 9:30 A.M. – 4:00 P.M.
Meridian Health Village at Jackson
MeridianHealth.com • 1-800-DOCTORS 23
Concussions from SportsRelated Activities
Diabetes
Learn the signs, symptoms, and what
to do when a concussion is suspected
as well as how baseline testing can aid
in return-to-activity decisions.
The Rise and Fall of Blood
Sugar
january 22, 11:00 a.m. – noon
February 21, 1:00 – 2:00 p.m.
F RC Stafford Township
Speaker: tommaSina papa-rugino, m.d.
February 24, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
O Community Room
Speaker: kriStine keane, pSy.d.
Childbirth/Maternity
Childbirth Education Series
Meridian Health offers classes and
seminars for first-time and experienced
parents, as well as tours, classes
for siblings, and more! Registration
required. Please register before your
third trimester. To learn more about
our fun and informative classes, visit
MeridianMomtourage.com.
Strike a Pose: Yoga for Moms
and Moms-to-Be
Classes focus on gentle postures,
breathing techniques, and overall
relaxation to prepare for childbirth or
recover after childbirth. Call Meridian
Life Fitness at Point Pleasant at
732-295-1778 to register.
Counseling and Behavioral
Health
Learn how your daily lifestyle
affects your blood sugar.
F RC Stafford Township
Comprehensive Diabetes
Management
Individual or group educational and
support programs. To register, call
Bayshore Community Hospital at
732-888-7362, Riverview Medical
Center and Ocean Medical Center at
732-530-2555, Jersey Shore University
Medical Center at 732-897-3980, and
Southern Ocean Medical Center at
609-978-3400.
Fitness
Self-Defense Exercises
Learn how to use balance and leverage
strength to help defend yourself. Fee is
$3 per class.
Arthritis Foundation Exercise
Program
Free demo of a low-impact physical
activity program that includes gentle
range of motion exercises designed to
reduce pain and stiffness.
February 12, 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
West Creek United Methodist Church
189 Church Street, West Creek
My Achy Back
january 16, 12:30 – 1:30 p.m.
February 6 & 20, 12:30 – 1:30 p.m.
Learn how regular exercise and
physical therapy can help with back
pain. Call 732-295-1555 to register.
F RC Stafford Township
Start an Exercise Program
Learn the benefits of exercise and how
to get started.
February 27, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Ocean County Library
834 Beaver Dam Road, Point Pleasant
january 30, 1:00 – 2:00 p.m.
Meridian Life Fitness, Point Pleasant
Nutrition
Douglas Chudzik, M.D., will discuss the
signs and symptoms of depression and
some of the causes.
Yoga for Golfers
Weight Loss with Hypnosis
Find out if this specialty class is right
for you.
Lose weight with hypnotherapy.
Fee: $30.
january 9, 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
january 25, 8:30 – 9:15 a.m.
january 8, 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Coping with Depression
MFW Hazlet
Meridian Life Fitness, Point Pleasant
Addiction and Recovery
Services
Meridian Fitness and Wellness
Heart-Healthy Open House
For adult family members of addicted
individuals. Call for information.
Children’s Counseling
Stop by any of our Fitness and Wellness
locations for complimentary fitness
demonstrations, nutrition lectures, and
facility tours. Heart-healthy refreshments
will be available throughout the day.
Meridian Behavioral Health offers
a variety of counseling services at
both our Neptune and Shrewsbury
locations. We offer age-specific group
therapy and a therapeutic after-school
program for children ages 7 to 13, as
well as traditional individual and family
therapy. Call 732-869-2784, ext. 2, for
registration, schedules, and fees.
LoCATIoN KEY
B
R
bayshore community hospital
riverview medical center
24 Meridian Healthviews • JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014
F RC Stafford Township
February 25, 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
F RC Stafford Township
MFW Hazlet, Jackson
J
O
S
jersey Shore university medical center
ocean medical center
Southern ocean medical center
F RC
Family resource center at the ocean club,
Stafford township
MFW meridian Fitness and Wellness
Jump-Start Your Weight-Loss
Goals
Foot Care 101
Fall Prevention
Learn how to reach your weight-loss
goals.
Gina Lagnese, DPM, will discuss how you
can keep your feet healthy and address
some common foot ailments.
Learn how to make your daily environment
safe and how to maintain your balance.
January 13, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.
February 11, 11:00 a.m. – noon
J Lance Auditorium
O Community Room
MFW Hazlet
January 28, 1:30 – 2:30 p.m.
February 6, 1:30 – 2:30 p.m.
O Community Room
Eating the Mediterranean Way
Hip Replacement
Learn ways to incorporate the
Mediterranean diet into your lifestyle.
Learn who is a candidate for hip
replacement and the latest in techniques.
Low-Impact Aerobics For
Seniors
January 22, 2:00 – 3:00 p.m.
January 22, 2:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Speaker: Nader Bakhos, M.D.
Learn strengthening exercises,
low-impact aerobics, and stretching
in this free demo class.
February 27, 2:00 – 3:00 p.m.
February 7, 11:00 a.m. – noon
F RC Stafford Township
Nutrition Counseling
Consult a registered dietician to
design a food plan that meets your
weight-management and medical
nutrition needs. For more information,
registration, and fees, call Riverview
Medical Center at 732-530-2555,
Meridian Life Fitness at Point Pleasant
at 732-206-8263, or Southern Ocean
Medical Center at 609-978-3400.
Orthopedics and Sports
Medicine
Pain Management
Join Steven Ferrer, M.D., and learn what
treatment options may be available for you.
January 21, 6:00 – 7:00 P.M.
J Brennan Rooms 104/105
R Shrewsbury River Conference Suite
Speaker: Nader Hebela, M.D.
St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church
367 Route 9, Waretown
Screenings
Weight-Loss Surgery
New Year, New You!
Weight-Loss Surgery: The Facts
Start the year off right. Join experts
from Meridian Health for an informative
lecture on good health, nutrition, and
exercise. Health screenings will be
provided. Registration required.
Karl Strom, M.D., medical director of
the Bariatric Center of Excellence at
Southern Ocean Medical Center and
Bayshore Community Hospital, with
surgeons Jonathan Reich, M.D., and
Silvia Fresco, M.D., will host educational
programs on the benefits of weight-loss
surgery.
F RC Stafford Township
January 11
MFW Hazlet
Lecture: 9:00 – 10:00 a.m.
Screenings: 10:00 – 11:30 a.m.
January 13
Ocean County Library—Manchester Branch
21 Colonial Drive
January 14 & February 11, 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.
Ramada Inn
2373 Route 9, Toms River
Lecture: 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Screenings: 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
January 8 & February 12, 2:00 – 3:30 p.m.
January 9, 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.
Blood Pressure Screening
January 8 & February 12, 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.
First & third Wednesday of each month.
9:00 – 11:00 a.m.
January 17, 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.
F RC Stafford Township
Ocean County Library
834 Beaver Dam Road, Point Pleasant
Double Tree Hilton
700 Hope Road, Tinton Falls
Balance Screening
January 20 & February 26
Osteoporosis Update
January 23, 1:00 p.m.
Ocean County Library - Lacey
10 East Lacey Road, Forked River
O
January 21, February 6 & 27, 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.
February 13, 1:00 p.m.
MFW Hazlet
Meridian Life Fitness, Point Pleasant
January 28 & February 25, 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.
Diabetes Foot Screening
Ocean County Library – Toms River
101 Washington Street
Living with Arthritis
Learn ways to protect your bones and
joints so that you can perform everyday
activities with greater ease. Call
732-295-1555 to register.
January 21, 2:30 – 3:30 P.m.
Michael Sze, M.D., will review the latest
research on medication, vitamins, diet,
and exercise. Bone density screenings
will be provided.
January 24
F RC Stafford Township
Screenings: 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Lecture: 11:00 a.m. – noon
Preventing and Recovering from
Sports Injury
Join Thomas Sargent, D.O., and Jason
Nitche, M.D., as they discuss the latest in
specialty sports medicine that includes
advanced diagnostic treatment and
cutting-edge surgical techniques.
January 29, 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
F RC Stafford Township
Call 732-206-8263 to register.
Call the Wound Center at Southern
Ocean Medical Center at 609-978-3077.
First Wednesday of each month
Noon – 1:00 p.m.
Senior Programs
Aarp Driving Safety Program
Driving program for adults 50 and
older who want to develop safe
defensive driving techniques. The fee
is $15 for AARP members and $20 for
nonmembers. Make checks payable to
AARP. Call for dates and times.
B Conference Rooms A and B
S
February 13, 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.
R
Options for Weight-Loss Surgery
Seth Kipnis, M.D., medical director of
the Center for Weight Loss Surgery at
Jersey Shore University Medical Center,
discusses the benefits of weight-loss
surgery.
January 8 & February 12, 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.
J Medical Staff Boardroom
MeridianHealth.com • 1-800-DOCTORS 25
Take Control of Your Health
Learn practical skills and strategies for managing symptoms,
working with health care professionals, setting weekly
goals, problem-solving, relaxing, handling difficult
emotions, eating well, and exercising safely and easily.
Six-week program. Registration required.
Weight-Loss Surgery: Explore
Your options
Varicose Veins: Causes and
Treatment options
Join us for an informative discussion
on the benefits and options for weightloss surgery.
Lawrence Mueller, M.D., will discuss
varicose veins, their causes, and the
latest treatment options.
january 9 & 23, February 13, 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.
january 16
january 16 & February 20, 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Holiday Inn, 290 Route 37 East, Toms River
january 30 & February 6, 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Ocean County Library – Jackson
2 Jackson Drive
J Brennan Rooms 104/105
Lecture: 9:00 – 10:00 a.m.
ScreeningS: 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
February 20
J Brennan Rooms 104/105
Lecture: 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.
ScreeningS: 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.
February 27, 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.
O Conference Room B
Coping with Stress
General Wellness
Learn strategies and techniques to cope
with stress.
Genealogy
Interested in tracing your family history?
january 28, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Meridian Life Fitness, Point Pleasant
beyond the baSicS
january 13, 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
National Safety Defensive
Driving Class
the baSicS
February 10, 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Learn safe, defensive driving techniques
to save on your insurance policy. Fee
$8 and $10 for certification and point
reduction.
F RC Stafford Township
Advance Directives and
Living Wills
Learn about advance directives,
living wills, and Practitioner Orders
for Life-Sustaining Treatment
(POLST). Free advance directives
will be handed out.
january 16, 11:00 a.m. – noon
MFW Hazlet
LoCATIoN KEY
B
R
bayshore community hospital
riverview medical center
26 Meridian Healthviews • JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014
To learn about current clinical trials
available at Meridian Health, please
visit us at MeridianHealth.com,
call 732-776-2953, or e-mail us at
clinicaltrials@meridianhealth.com.
CPR Training
All Meridian hospitals are American
Heart Association CPR training
centers. Call for dates, times,
locations, and classes offered.
Starting january 8, 1:00 – 3:30 p.m.
MFW Hazlet
O Community Room
Clinical Trials
February 19, 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
F RC Stafford Township
Meridian Programs and
Services
Booker Health Sciences Library
Home Delivery
Looking to learn more about a medical
topic, disease, or condition? The library
sends a packet of reliable information to
you at no cost.
phone: 732-776-4265
FaX: 732-776-4530
e-maiL: jsumclibrary@meridianhealth.com
J
O
S
jersey Shore university medical center
ocean medical center
Southern ocean medical center
Infectious Disease Clinic
Located at Jersey Shore University
Medical Center. Call 732-774-0151
to schedule a free, confidential
appointment.
Support Groups
Meridian offers support groups for
bereavement; caregivers; diabetes;
anorexia and bulimia; breast,
lung, prostate, thyroid, and other
cancers; Alzheimer’s disease; stroke;
Parkinson’s disease; sleep disorders;
celiac disease; heart disease; weight
loss; and more.To learn more about
these and other support groups, call
1-800-560-9990.
Speaking Engagements
Meridian Health is happy to arrange
custom health-education programs to
meet the needs of your community
group, organization, or school. Call
732-751-7590 to learn more.
Featured Support Group
ostomy Support Group
More than 900,000 ostomy
surgeries are performed each year.
Meet other people who face similar
challenges and learn helpful hints
while being reassured that you are
not alone. Caregivers welcome.
F RC Stafford Township
meetingS heLd Second thurSday oF
each month
(no meeting july and august)
1:00 – 2:00 p.m.
F RC
Family resource center at the ocean club,
Stafford township
MFW meridian Fitness and Wellness
Philip Duerinck is back
to driving his grandson,
Nicholas, to school thanks
to the excellent care he
received from Meridian
Nursing & Rehab at
Shrewsbury and Meridian
At Home.
Get Seamless,
Integrated Care
on the Road Again
Rehabilitation puts grandpa back
on the road to school again.
Meridian Health
Proud grandpa and Middletown resident
Philip Duerinck is back doing his favorite
daily errand — something his wife,
Evelyn, thought she would never see
again. Philip is driving his 8-year-old
grandson, Nicholas, to school in the
morning.
After years of suffering from osteoarthritis
that increasingly limited his mobility, Philip
had a total knee replacement surgery
performed by Bernard Murphy, M.D.,
an orthopedic surgeon affiliated with
Riverview Medical Center. Philip, then 76
years old, was moved to Meridian Nursing
& Rehab at Shrewsbury in February 2013
for his recovery and rehabilitation.
Staying the Course
Philip was initially slow to respond to
therapy and encountered significant
obstacles in his first few weeks, so much
so that the director of rehabilitation
services had discussions to prepare
Evelyn for the possibility that Philip
might need permanent nursing care.
The inter-disciplinary team at Meridian
Nursing & Rehab at Shrewsbury,
however, was determined to work with
Philip and find the breakthrough that
would bring him home again.
“The entire team and staff at Meridian
Rehab at Shrewsbury was fantastic,”
Evelyn says. “Their dedication and
the way they worked with Philip was
simply amazing. I was prepared to begin
considering long-term care for him, and
they were always positive and caring in
every way, which helped me through
the difficult time.”
Brenda Blaney, director of Rehabilitation
Services at Meridian Nursing & Rehab
at Shrewsbury, adds, “Our staff and
therapists never gave up hope and slowly
saw amazing progress. Our patients
become like family, and we were happy
to do anything we could, not only to help
Philip, but also to provide the support and
guidance Evelyn needed to understand the
treatment plan and be part of the effort.”
Unparalleled Support
Evelyn especially appreciated the sociable
environment that became a support
system for both her and Philip. “An
important part of our day was dining
together with Philip in the cafeteria,”
Meridian’s Rehabilitation
Services deliver the highest
quality of comprehensive
rehabilitative health care, including
acute, subacute, outpatient, and
home care rehabilitation. To learn
why Meridian Rehabilitation is
the right choice for you, go to
MeridianHealth.com/Rehab or
MeridianAt Home.com.
Evelyn says. “My daughters and grandson
felt welcome and enjoyed this time
together. We also met and dined
with other patients and families and
friendships quickly developed, which
gave us strength and pleasure.”
In April 2013, Philip was released from
Meridian Nursing & Rehab at Shrewsbury
and continued his physical therapy using
Meridian’s home care services, Meridian
At Home. “The care and experience at the
Shrewsbury Rehab was so exceptional
that we were very happy to know that
Meridian could provide Philip’s care once
he was back home,” Evelyn adds.
Evelyn is not the only one excited to
have Philip home. According to Nicholas,
“What I missed most were the talks I
would have with my grandpa in the car
on the way to school. I am really happy
that Grandpa is well again and able to
drive me to school. We never run out
of things to talk about!”
by Larry Ginsberg
MeridianHealth.com • 1-800-DOCTORS 27
7 Ways
To PRoTECT YoUR HEART
Take Care of
Your Heart
February is American
Heart Month, so join
us in celebrating heart
health. From Joyful Heart
Tea to our Red Dress event,
you can have fun while
learning how to live a
heart-healthy life. Turn to
page 22 to find out dates,
times, and locations for all
our events!
CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE TAKES
a staggering toll on the U.S.
population. More than 80 million
Americans have problems with
their heart or blood vessels. Each
year, these diseases account for
one of every three deaths.
But take heart. Though they
remain high, these rates have
dropped in the past 50 years.
What’s more, doctors have identified seven
key ways to protect your heart. Making
progress in even a few of these areas can
significantly reduce your risk of dying of
a heart attack or stroke.
Most people could do better — only 3.3
percent of the population reports ideal heart
health as measured by these factors. But if
everyone improved by an average of 20
28 Meridian Healthviews • JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014
percent, it would prevent about one-quarter of all
cardiovascular deaths.
1
DoN’T SMoKE.
The chemicals in tobacco smoke thicken your
blood, damage your blood cells and heart tissue,
and change the way your blood vessels work.
If you don’t smoke, don’t start. If you do, quitting
stands as the best way to improve your health.
“Your heart and blood vessels begin healing as soon
as you put out your last cigarette,” says Arthur
O’Keefe, M.D., of Riverview Medical Center. After
a year, you cut your risk for heart disease in half.
2
EAT A HEALTHY DIET.
Nutritious foods provide your body with
building blocks for a strong heart. But about 90
percent of Americans don’t eat a heart-healthy diet.
Keep these simple rules in mind to guide your choices:
• Eat more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Replace some beef, pork, and lamb with oily
fish, beans, and poultry.
• Use fat-free or low-fat dairy products most
of the time.
Try making one small swap at a time. Move
on to the next goal once you’ve formed a
healthy habit.
3
STAY ACTIVE.
Walk, run, bike, or even garden or dance.
About 30 minutes of moderate physical
activity daily strengthens your heart muscle so
that it pumps blood through your body more
efficiently and effectively.
Even 10 minutes at a time helps your health.
And you don’t need a gym membership. “Try
making everyday activities more active,” says
Scott Druckman, D.O., of Ocean Medical Center.
“Take the stairs instead of the elevator or use a
shovel instead of a snowblower.”
4
MAINTAIN A HEALTHY WEIGHT.
Your doctor can use your weight and
height to compute a number called your
body mass index. The higher it climbs, the
greater the risk that a substance called plaque
will build up in your arteries. Over time,
blocked blood flow to your heart or brain can
cause a heart attack or stroke. Aim to keep your
body mass index lower than 25 and your waist
size less than 35 inches if you’re a woman and
40 inches if you’re a man.
5
LoWER YoUR BLooD PRESSURE.
If you have hypertension, blood pushes
against your arteries with too much force,
stretching or injuring them. “Your body repairs
the damage,” says Brett Sealove, M.D., a cardiologist at Jersey
Shore University Medical Center. “But the resulting scar tissue
can trap plaque and white blood cells, causing hardened,
weak, or blocked blood vessels.”
Your doctor should check your blood pressure regularly.
Healthy readings fall lower than 120/80 mm Hg. In addition
to eating right and exercising, managing stress through
relaxation techniques can bring high numbers down.
6
CoNTRoL YoUR CHoLESTERoL.
Your body needs some cholesterol — a waxy, fatlike
substance — to produce hormones and digest food
properly. But having too much clogs your blood vessels and
increases your risk for heart attack and stroke.
“After age 20, have your cholesterol checked at least once
every five years,” says William Glenn, D.O., of Southern
Ocean Medical Center. “For the best heart health, you’ll want
your total cholesterol lower than 200 and your LDL, or ‘bad,’
cholesterol lower than 100.”
7
REDUCE YoUR BLooD GLUCoSE.
When glucose levels climb too high, your body drains
fluid out of your cells to dilute the sugar. This causes
dehydration, extreme thirst, and damage to your heart and
other organs.
Ask your doctor about getting fasting blood glucose test.
A level of 100 or higher may mean you have diabetes or
prediabetes, along with a higher risk for heart disease.
Exercising, steering clear of sugary foods and beverages,
and taking medications can reduce your readings.
Brett A. Sealove, M.D.
Board certified
in Cardiovascular
Disease and Internal
Medicine
Ocean
732-663-0300
Arthur A.
O’Keefe, M.D.
Tinton Falls
732-741-7400
William Glenn, D.O.
Board certified in
Family Medicine,
Geriatric Medicine,
and Sports Medicine
Manahawkin
609-597-7394
Scott Druckman, D.O.
Board certified in
Family Medicine
Jackson
732-367-0166
MeridianHealth.com • 1-800-DOCTORS 29
Paulette Dinnall, her husband, Christopher, and their
two children, Donovan and Angelique, live near the
Meridian Health Village. The family plans to go to the
facility for their health care needs when it opens.
Meridian Health
Village Is Opening
Soon!
Your one-Stop Shop
Meridian Health Village at Jackson can
help you fulfill your health care needs all in one place.
Meridian Health
PICTURE THIS: IT’S SUNDAY MORNING AND YOU HAVE SEVERAL ERRANDS TO
finish before you can get to your child’s soccer game. Would you rather run
around town or go to one convenient location where you can find
everything you need? Exactly.
Now, what if you could find this same level of quality and convenience
when it comes to taking care of your health? Well, now you can — at the
new Meridian Health Village at Jackson.
Everything You Need
Meridian Health Village is the first of its kind in central New Jersey. It offers
comprehensive services, such as an urgent care center, a variety of primary
care and specialist physicians, women’s and children’s specialized care,
physical rehabilitation and therapy, and a world-class fitness center all
conveniently located under one roof. So whether you need a primary
care physician, medical specialist, physical therapy, MRI or lab work,
outpatient surgery, or even cancer care services, Jackson Health Village is
your one-stop resource.
Other services at the Health Village will include:
• Primary care physicians (including internal medicine and family care)
• Pediatricians and pediatric subspecialists
• Medical specialists (including cardiology, gastroenterology, urology,
and more)
• Comprehensive cancer care services
• Outpatient surgery center
• Diagnostic imaging and laboratory services
• Fitness Center with large indoor pool and aquatics programs and therapy
• Pharmacy and medical equipment and supplies
• Community education/conference center
30 Meridian Healthviews • JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014
Meridian Health Village
at Jackson is your
destination for better health,
combining top medical and
surgical specialists, urgent
care, wellness, fitness, and
everything else you need to stay
healthy, close to home. Visit
MeridianHealthVillage.com
to watch our progress!
Easy In, Easy out
At three stories and 150,000 square feet,
the Meridian Health Village is spacious
and contemporary yet distinctively
designed with an old-world elegance to
fit in with the local community. Located
at the intersection of South Cooks Bridge
and Bennetts Mills roads, it’s also easily
accessible from routes 195 and 9. Once
there, you’ll find convenient, ample
parking. You will also have an easy time
finding the services you need inside the
facility, thanks to the Health Village’s
centralized hub design, which allows
easy access to any location in the
building.
Meridian Health understands that there is
nothing more important than the health and
well-being of you and your family, but that
your life and schedule are jam-packed with
things to do and places to be. We’ve created
a unique solution to give the residents of
Jackson and the surrounding communities
everything they need to maintain their
health in one convenient place.
Understanding the Risks of
High Blood Pressure
WHENEVER YOU VISIT YOUR DOCTOR, CHANCES
are someone wraps a cuff around your upper
arm and checks your blood pressure. But while
you are familiar with this simple test, you may
not understand why your blood pressure is so
important to your health.
do-it-yourself
rice bowl
cause obvious symptoms but damage the
brain — than those with normal blood
pressure. Detecting high blood pressure
early and controlling it can help you avoid
such life-threatening conditions.
Keep It in Check
Why High Blood Pressure Is a Problem
As blood moves through the arteries, it puts
pressure on the artery walls. This pressure
goes up and down depending on several
things, including physical activity, diet, and
medications. A person has high blood
pressure when the pressure is elevated most
of the time over a period of time.
It’s important to keep tabs on your blood
pressure. If it’s high and you don’t know it,
or if you don’t control it, you may be at
greater risk for heart attack, heart failure,
stroke, kidney disease, and other serious
conditions. For example, in one study
reported in Neurology, people with high
blood pressure were 60 percent more likely
to have “silent” strokes — strokes that don’t
Start The Year Off Right!
Every day is a chance to do
something good for your
heart. 365 Days of Heart offers
access to important prevention
and wellness information from
our heart-health experts. Visit
365DaysofHeart.com to learn about
our heart-healthy educational
events, tips, recipes, and more!
Blood pressure tends to rise with age. In
addition, people who are obese, who have
certain medical problems such as diabetes,
or who take certain medications are also at
risk. There are things you can do to prevent
and/or control high blood pressure:
• Don’t smoke.
• If you are overweight, lose excess
pounds. Talk with your doctor if you
need help.
• Choose a variety of foods that are low in
fat and include lots of fruits, vegetables,
and whole grains.
• Get at least 30 minutes of moderateintensity activity, such as brisk walking,
every day.
• Watch your salt and sodium intake.
Aim for no more than 1,500 milligrams,
or about half a teaspoon, a day.
• Take medication. If you have high blood
pressure, take your medication as
prescribed.
¼ cup chopped red bell
pepper
¼ cup chopped Vidalia or
Spanish onion
½ cup sliced mushrooms
½ cup broccoli florets
½ cup instant brown rice
½ cup fat-free chicken
broth
½ chicken breast (about
4 oz.) cut into bite-sized
pieces
1 Mix everything in a deep
microwavable bowl.
2 Cover with plastic wrap.
3 Microwave on high for
seven minutes.
4 Let stand for three to five
minutes.
5 Fluff with a fork.
Serves one large portion.
Variations: Add a southof-the-border taste with
Tabasco and salsa, an Asian
flavor with soy sauce and
bean sprouts, or an Italian
twist with a chopped tomato
and a sprinkle of Parmesan
cheese after cooking.
Contains approx. 376 calories,
35 g protein, 5 g fat,
46 g carbohydrate,
5 g fiber, 831 mg sodium
MeridianHealth.com • 1-800-DOCTORS 31
Non-Profit Org.
U.S. Postage
PAID
Meridian
Health
1140 Route 72 West
Manahawkin, NJ 08050
JOE COYLE
President
READ OWEN
COURTNEY’S
STORY ON
PAGE 21.
1945 Route 33
Neptune, NJ 07753
STEVEN G. LITTLESON, FACHE
President
You buy the princess helmet.
You put on the training wheels.
You get ready to roll.
You get jaw pain and cold sweats.
1945 Route 33
Neptune, NJ 07753
Signs of a heart attack.
STEVEN G. LITTLESON, FACHE
President
Your wife doesn’t hesitate.
She calls 911.
You get to a Meridian ER.
And expertise found only at accredited Chest Pain Centers.
425 Jack Martin Blvd.
Brick, NJ 08724
You get access to Meridian CardioVascular Network.
DEAN Q. LIN, MHA, MBA, FACHE
President
You get rehab close to home.
You get your heart strong again.
So you can enjoy the ride.
One Riverview Plaza
Red Bank, NJ 07701
To get an appointment with a Meridian CardioVascular specialist, call 1-800-DOCTORS.
To get more information, visit MeridianCardioVascularNetwork.com.
TIMOTHY J. HOGAN, FACHE
Regional President
Meridian CardioVascular Network
727 North Beers Street
Holmdel, NJ 07733
TIMOTHY J. HOGAN, FACHE
Regional President
© 2013 Meridian Health
Printed on Recyclable Paper
6116D
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