SPRING/SUMMER 2015
World-Class Care . . .
Right In Your
Own Backyard
The Anatomy of
Care and Comfort
Health and
Fitness Classes
Is it Possible to
Reduce the Risk of
Getting Alzheimer’s
Disease?
Bringing
Breakthroughs
In Cancer from the
Lab to the Bedside
Read us online at
sjhnews.org/stjude
World-Class Care ...
Right In Your Own Backyard
Introducing California’s Most Advanced Neurosurgical Suite
When Jenna was diagnosed with a brain tumor, imaging revealed
that its location, near critical structures deep in the brain, would
make removing it challenging. Worse, the tumor had migrated
into healthy tissue, making the border between the two difficult
to distinguish.
After careful research, the 49-year-old chose to have surgery at
St. Jude Medical Center, home to a state-of-the-art neurosurgical
“smart” suite — the first of its kind in California.
Using imaging and navigation technology available at very few hospitals
in the nation, Bradley Noblett, MD, medical director of Neurosurgical
Services, carefully and slowly removed the tumor, using high-definition
intraoperative MRI (iMRI) scans to measure his progress.
“Real-time MRI imaging during surgery allows us to more precisely
determine the borders of a tumor, avoid critical or sensitive areas
of the brain, and ensure removal of the tumor before ending
the surgery — something that just isn’t possible without this
technology,” explains Dr. Noblett, a board-certified and fellowshiptrained neurosurgeon. “Here, patients have the best possible
opportunity for a successful outcome.”
The combination of iMRI and a revolutionary neuro-navigation system
by BrainSuite creates a highly precise GPS system inside the brain.
As delicate brain structures shift during surgery, up-to-date high
definition images are displayed on oversized screens throughout
the operating suite, permitting the surgeon to safely navigate to the
tumor while also allowing the entire surgical team to recognize and
anticipate next steps.
Already recognized nationally for exceptional neurosurgical
outcomes — including being named a top neurosurgery hospital
by Blue Shield/Blue Cross — merging technology, imaging and
navigation capabilities available nowhere else in the western United
States, ensures St. Jude can continue to innovate and lead.
“This new suite allows us to continue to raise the bar, not only in
accuracy and precision, but in making surgeries less invasive, with
fewer complications, and far less trauma to healthy brain tissue,” says
Hector Ho, MD, a respected neurosurgeon at St. Jude Medical Center.
Located within the recently opened $255 million Northwest Tower,
the neurosurgical operating room is one of 14 “smart” surgical
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ST. JUDE MEDICAL CENTER
suites, made possible by a generous community. Together they
bring advances in robotics, surgical navigation and information
technologies. Several are dedicated to specific surgical missions,
including a cutting-edge “hybrid” cardiovascular suite that combines
4D imaging with minimally-invasive catheterization techniques —
such as stent placement — and traditional open-surgery techniques,
all in the same procedure.
According to Dr. Noblett, future uses of the neurosurgery suite
include state-of-the-art treatment of Parkinson’s and other
movement disorders, as well as chronic pain and Alzheimer’s. “This
investment into extraordinary care,” he explains, “will allow us to
create more hope and more happy endings for families throughout
Southern California.”
For Jenna, her research paid off. Three days after surgery, she went
home with an excellent prognosis. To learn more, visit us online at
stjudemedicalcenter.org or call (877) 459-DOCS (3627).
NEUROSCIENCES AT ST. JUDE
Nationally recognized for our superior outcomes in stroke and
neurosurgery, St. Jude Medical Center offers outstanding care
for diseases and disorders of the brain and spine.
We are home to many of Southern California’s top experts in
neuroradiology, neurointervention, neurology, neurosurgery and
neurorehabilitation, as well as one of the state’s largest team of
neurointensivists — ensuring the highest level of specialized care at
every point of care.
Our new leading-edge neurosurgery suite joins an already
impressive list of technology and programs dedicated to providing
today’s best neurological care, including a sophisticated neurointerventional lab — offering the newest and least invasive
treatments for stroke — as well as one of the nation’s most
innovative and comprehensive neuro-rehabilitation programs
for those affected by stroke or brain injury.
For more information call, (714) 446-5196.
INTRODUCING OUR EXPERTS
Offering the latest technology is only part of the story. Putting this technology
into the hands of highly-trained experts allows us to provide patients with truly
remarkable outcomes.
St. Jude offers today’s most advanced neurosurgical
technology. This leading-edge suite integrates highresolution, digital introperative magnetic resonance
imaging (iMRI) with sophisticated new surgical
navigation, visualization and information capabilities.
To learn more visit us online at stjudemedicalcenter.org or call (877) 459-DOCS (3627).
Bradley Noblett, MD
Medical Director,
Neurosurgical Services
(714) 835-2724
Lars Anker, MD
(714) 919-7661
Hector Ho, MD
(714) 835-2724
HEALTH MATTERS | SPRING/SUMMER 2015
3
The beautiful outdoor garden is visible and
accessible to patients and visitors, offering
a place of renewal and relaxation.
Natural light-filled
rooms contribute to an
environment designed
to promote healing.
The Anatomy of Care and C
When the Northwest Tower opened in November, the $255
million tower ensured St. Jude Medical Center would continue
to fulfill a promise made over 50 years ago: to provide an
“Sxx.”
Private rooms not only increase patient comfort
and convenience, but lower the risk of infection,
improve sleep and accelerate healing.
extraordinary level of care to families and neighbors.
While state seismic requirements created the need for the 200,000 square foot
tower, according to President and CEO, Lee Penrose, a passion for exceptional
service created its design. “This tower allows us to fulfill our mission and
ministry in an even more powerful way,” explains Penrose, “and offers the
perfect setting for our physicians and staff to continue to create nationallyrecognized services and programs.”
Offering capabilities available at only a handful of hospitals in the state, the
four-story tower features state-of-the-art surgical services as well as 120 patient
rooms designed to maximize recovery. Just as the Southwest Tower brought
private rooms to new moms and families, the Northwest Tower brings spacious,
private rooms to medical and surgical patients.
“We have a much better understanding of what is necessary for patients to
receive optimal care, and it’s more than just a bed, a nurse and a doctor — it is
an entire environment,” Penrose explains. “The new patient rooms are designed
to not only accelerate healing, but create a whole new standard of evidencebased, personalized care.”
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ST. JUDE MEDICAL CENTER
Having family nearby can
improve a patient’s sense
of well-being — which is
why each room offers a
comfortable daybed and
enough space to allow
loved ones to remain close.
Ceiling panels with
nature scenes bring
another relaxing
element into the room.
omfort
Vital signs are
automatically recorded
and wirelessly transmitted
directly to a patient’s
electronic medical record
— eliminating paperwork
and improving accuracy.
Computers at the bedside allow
nurses and doctors to update
medical records, view images
and check test results without
leaving the room. Conversations
with patients don’t have to be
interrupted, as everything clinicians
need is at their fingertips.
A sophisticated bar-coding system allows each
patient’s medications to be stored safely in
their room, giving clinicians immediate access.
The bedside medication drawers are part of the
hospital’s highly successful medication-error
prevention system.
HEALTH MATTERS | SPRING/SUMMER 2015
5
ST. JUDE MEDICAL CENTER
Health Education and Prevention
CLASSES AND EVENTS
SPRING/SUMMER 2015
(877) 459-DOCS (3627)
STJUDEMEDICALCENTER.ORG/HEALTHCLASSES
St. Jude Medical Center offers health education classes to help you and your family in living better, longer and healthier.
Locations will vary and, unless noted, all classes are free. Space is limited and registration is required.
Tired of living with knee
or shoulder pain?
Thursday, July 16, 6 p.m.
New advances in knee and shoulder
treatment are dramatically changing
the quality of life for those with injuries
or arthritis.
Join Harvard-trained orthopedic surgeon
Shawn Solhpour, MD, to learn about the
innovative new procedures and options
returning patients of all ages to doing the
things they love. Ever wondered if there is
something new that might help you? Come
learn about the newest and best options
available, including:
“No scar” all-inside ACL or PCL
àà
reconstruction
Double-bundle ACL or PCL
àà
reconstruction
Partial and custom knee replacements,
àà
as well as the latest advances in knee
replacement technology
Knotless double-row rotator-cuff
àà
repair
Minimally invasive repair of separated
àà
shoulder and shoulder instability
Minimally invasive shoulder joint
àà
New instrumentation, materials and
technology are creating signficant
improvements in recovery times and
outcomes. Learn what’s available and
what might help you from one of Southern
California’s top board-certified experts.
My Aching Feet: Causes,
Prevention and Cures
Wednesday, July 22, 6 p.m.
Three-quarters of Americans will, at some
point, have foot pain. From flat feet to
bunions to sprained ankles, foot pain
comes in a variety of shapes and sizes,
but has the same effect: keeping you
from enjoying life.
Marie Keplinger, DPM, a board-certified
podiatrist, will discuss the causes of foot
pain — from hammertoe to heel pain —
including how to prevent it, successfully
treat it, and get back on your feet,
pain-free. Dr. Keplinger will also cover foot
pain from conditions such as arthritis and
diabetes, as well as plantar fasciitis and
stress fractures common to athletes. Learn
how get the spring back in your step!
resurfacing for arthritis
Why am I so tired?
Wednesday, July 1, 6 p.m.
Millions of adults, teenagers and children
suffer from sleep apnea — an often
undiagnosed and potentially deadly
condition — and most have no idea
why they feel so tired all the time.
Join fellowship-trained sleep expert
Bertrand R. De Silva, MD, to learn the
symptoms, causes and most importantly,
successful treatments. Board-certified in sleep
medicine, pulmonology, internal medicine
and critical care, Dr. De Silva will discuss:
How to recognize if you or someone you
àà
love has sleep apnea — and why it is so
frequently misdiagnosed or ignored.
The physiological causes and effects
àà
that make sleep apnea so dangerous.
Improvements and innovations in
àà
Maximizing your child’s health
through better nutrition
Thursday, June 18, 6 p.m.
So, what does your child eat? If the
nutrition “police” came to your house,
what score would you get? Join Pediatric
Registered Dietitian, Megan Wroe, MS, RD,
for help, tips and strategies on topics
ranging from managing a picky eater,
to the nutrients and foods your kid
needs to maximize physical and
intellectual development.
With so much information available, it’s
easy for parents to get overwhelmed. This
highly informative class will cover exactly
what you need to know to ensure your
child gets the right nutrients in meals that
are quick and easy to prepare.
treatment — and how to finally
experience being fully rested.
If you, or someone you care about, have
any of the symptoms of sleep apnea
— such as unexplained fatigue or loud
snoring in adults, and difficulty focusing
or hyperactivity in children — please plan
to join Dr. De Silva for a highly informative,
possibly life-saving class.
FREE MEDICARE SEMINARS
Understanding Medicare
Turning 65? Help eliminate the confusion and guesswork around Medicare
by attending one of our no-cost education meetings. You’ll learn about the
different parts of Medicare, enrollment windows and timing. Make your
reservation online at stjhs.org/medicare or call (877) 459-3627.
Hearing impairment, call: TTY (949) 381-4947.
St. Jude Heritage Medical Group
4300 Rose Drive, Yorba Linda, CA 92886
6 p.m.
6 p.m.
6 p.m.
6 p.m.
6 p.m.
Wednesday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Tuesday
Wednesday
May 6
May 12
June 17
June 23
July 8
6 p.m.
6 p.m.
6 p.m.
6 p.m.
6 p.m.
Tuesday
Wednesday
Tuesday
Tuesday
Tuesday
July 14
August 5
August 11
September 1
September 8
Medicare Benefits
Covered by Medicare? Join our informative, no pressure
meeting where representatives from our partner health
plans will discuss their benefits so you can determine
the best plan for you. Make a reservation online at
stjhs.org/medicare or call (877) 459-3627.
Hearing impairment, call: TTY (949) 381-4947.
St. Jude Heritage Medical Group
4300 Rose Drive, Yorba Linda, CA 92886
6 p.m.
6 p.m
6 p.m.
6 p.m.
6 p.m.
Wednesday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Wednesday
Tuesday
May 27
June 30
July 29
August 26
September 22
Medicare has neither reviewed nor endorsed this information. Sales persons will be present with information and applications at the
Medicare Benefits meetings. For accommodation of persons with special needs at benefit sales meetings, please call (877) 459-3627.
Hearing impairment, call TTY (949) 381-4947 (Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.).
6
ST. JUDE MEDICAL CENTER
ST. JUDE MEDICAL CENTER
Synergy, A Medical Fitness Center
GROUP AND PERSONALIZED FITNESS, HEALTH AND WELLNESS PROGRAMS AND CLASSES
(714) 578-8770
SYNERGYMEDFIT.COM
St. Jude Centers for Rehabilitation and Wellness, 2767 E. Imperial Hwy., Brea, CA 92821
Wherever your starting point may be, we specialize in a variety of classes to meet you at your personal fitness level. We also provide you with fitness or well-being support
if you are dealing with a pre-existing or chronic condition. Call or visit us for a complete schedule of classes, times and fees.
Synergy Tour
Tai Chi
SilverSneakers
At Synergy, we offer a comprehensive array of wellness
programs and services. Find out about the unique programs
we offer, that may be the perfect fit for you. This tour will
provide you an understanding of all services we offer to
enhance or maintain your health, as well as a walk-through
of our facility.
Ever wanted to learn the ancient Chinese tradition of Tai
Chi? Tai Chi strengthens mental focus through the flow
of soft and hard movements, and improves muscle tone,
endurance and balance.
SilverSneakers is a fun, energizing program that helps
older adults improve their muscular strength, range of
motion, balance and flexibility. The class provides total
body conditioning. Exercises are done with resistance
tools such as bands, light weights and balls and can
be done at your own pace. Benefits: Improves overall
strength, flexibility, posture and balance.
This class is open to all participants.
For SilverSneakers members the class is free.
G.E.T. Fit
Are you new to exercise? Not sure which exercises
target certain muscles? Want to establish a wellrounded exercise routine? Try G.E.T. (Guided, Exercise,
and Training) Fit. This program is designed to focus
on developing a well-rounded exercise program and
the importance of each component of fitness. The
program will consist of cardiovascular fitness, strength,
and flexibility that will improve overall fitness and help
with preventing/managing chronic conditions. This is
a program intended for clients just starting or getting
back into an exercise program and/or may have a chronic
condition such as diabetes, hypertension, rheumatoid
arthritis, osteoarthritis, etc. Through the eight-week series
the participant will gradually build upon their fitness
knowledge and abilities. Most weeks will have an education
portion with handouts for at-home exercises.
Tai Chi is practiced as a graceful form of exercise,
that incorporates:
SLOWNESS. To develop awareness
LIGHTNESS. To make movements flow
BALANCE. To prevent body strain
CALMNESS. To maintain continuity
CLARITY. To focus the mind
Balance 4 Life
This eight-week balance program is designed to increase
balance, flexibility and strength. Developed for adults who
have challenges getting around due to balance related
problems. In this structured and progressive program,
specialized exercises and activities are utilized to improve
posture, range of motion, and focused movement while
learning environmental adaptations for safer, more stable
activity. Each class begins and ends with a reflection
period to help balance the body, mind and spirit. All
instructors are CSUF FallProof!™ certified. Physician
clearance is required.
Let’s Be Big
Yoga for Seniors
Based upon the principles of evidence-based LSVT BIG
Therapy, the Parkinson’s Program is designed to improve
flexibility, posture, balance, and endurance for individuals
with Parkinson’s Disease.
This class can help reduce stress and tension, improve
flexibility and posture and promote well-being. This
class will incorporate basic poses from various yoga
styles. Towel, water and mat required. Be sure to wear
loose, comfortable clothing that allows for movement in
a variety of angles and poses. Bare or stocking feet are
recommended. Please notify instructor of any injuries or
physical challenges before beginning class.
With a focus on “big” movements and balance exercises
aimed at reducing stiffness and increasing stability and
mobility, this class features a variety of equipment, such
as free weights, medicine balls, resistance bands, and even
the body weight of participants themselves.
Individuals with Parkinson’s disease often experience
difficulty locating a suitable place to exercise, and through
fear of falling become more sedentary and deconditioned
over time — further increasing the chance of falls. At
Synergy, participants in the Parkinson’s program can find
comfort in our safe, supervised settings, working with
specialists trained in LVST BIG Therapy. Within weeks,
participants notice results including:
•
•
•
•
Improved posture
Increased endurance
Elevated mood
Enhanced movement
A screening process is required to determine which class
would be most appropriate for each participant.
Zumba Gold
Zumba Gold® takes the Zumba® formula and modifies the
moves and pacing to suit the needs of the active older
participant, as well as those just starting their journey
to a fit and healthy lifestyle. What stays the same are
all the elements Zumba Fitness is known for: the zesty
Latin music, exhilarating moves, and the invigorating
atmosphere. It’s a dance-fitness class that feels friendly
and fun.
Cruising
This indoor cycling class uses specialized stationary cycles
and has all the fun and fitness of our Spinning® class but is
geared for those looking for a quality workout at a lower
intensity. (Towel and water required. SPD cycling shoes
are recommended but not required.)
KOALA
KOALA, (Knee Osteoarthritis Low Load Activity Program)
is a supervised eight-week exercise program designed
specifically to assist individuals with the chronic condition
of Knee Osteoarthritis. Instructors utilize a series of
conditioning and strengthening exercises to promote joint
mobility, stability, improved function and minimize chronic
pain. Physician clearance is required.
Bone Builder
This supervised exercise class targets the whole body
using gentle weight bearing exercises, stretches, and
balance activities to strengthen bones and help posture.
Physician clearance is required.
Pfilates™
Pfilates™ was created to provide a successful method of
recovering or enhancing pelvic floor strength through
Pilates inspired exercises and traditional rehabilitation.
This eight-week program will begin with an introductory
week focused on education and helping participants to
better understand pelvic floor disorders. Following this,
participants will learn the key movements of Pfilates™
throughout the ongoing 30-minute group exercise classes.
Group classes are designed for all fitness levels, and meet
twice a week for eight weeks.
Pre-requisite: All participants must purchase a Pfilates™
Kit to use for the program. Please plan on purchasing in
advance or arriving early for class to do so, (kit fee: $40).
Participants must bring the kit and yoga or Pilates mat to
each class.
HEALTH MATTERS | SPRING/SUMMER 2015
7
ASK OUR EXPERTS
Q: I frequently get headaches and keep a bottle
A:
of Tylenol in my desk. Can you take pain
relievers too often?
If used more than two days a week, over-the-counter pain
medications — as well as many prescription pain-relievers —
can cause overuse or “rebound” headaches. In fact, frequent
use of prescription or nonprescription painkillers can actually
cause more severe headaches than those that prompted you
to reach for Tylenol in the first place.
If overused, an analgesic can become less effective — making
the pain-free periods shorter. The result is a never-ending cycle
of frequent pain and frequent pain-relievers. Many experts
believe the habitual use of these drugs may actually diminish
the body’s own defense against headaches by slowing the
brain’s production of natural analgesics.
Talk to your doctor about what’s causing your headaches. A
“headache journal” will be valuable in identifying the problem.
Start jotting down the frequency and duration of your
headaches, medication usage, and potential triggers (sleep,
stress, food, drink, etc.).
Once you have a diagnosis, the solution may not be in pill
form. Undiagnosed sleep disorders are a common cause of
headaches, as is stress and depression. Exercise, massage,
getting quality sleep and eating healthy may do more to cure
your headaches than anything available from a pharmacy.
A board-certified family medicine physician, Billie
Park, DO, specializes in helping patients of all
ages — from newborn to retiree — improve their
health and quality of life. Dr. Park completed
his internship and residency at the U.S. Naval
Hospital, Camp Pendleton and spent seven years
treating service members and their families
before joining St. Jude Heritage Medical Group.
His office is located in the St. Jude Heritage Medical Group,
Anaheim Hills Office, 8078 E. Santa Ana Canyon Road, Anaheim Hills.
To make an appointment, please call (714) 974-2900.
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ST. JUDE MEDICAL CENTER
Q: Is it possible to reduce the risk of getting
A:
Alzheimer’s disease?
There is growing evidence the same factors that contribute to
heart disease — poor diet, too little exercise, and high blood
pressure — may also contribute to Alzheimer’s. Consider some
recent research:
Those who rarely or never exercise have a significantly higher
àà
risk than those who regularly lace up their tennis shoes.
Older individuals with high blood pressure are twice as likely
àà
to have markers for Alzheimer’s.
A Mediterranean-style diet — vegetables, fruits, salmon, olive
àà
oil and whole grains — may lower the risk of Alzheimer’s.
In addition to the antioxidants in fruits and vegetables, the
omega-3 fatty acids in fish offer preventative benefits.
Sleep disorders negatively impact every organ in the body —
àà
including the brain — and along with depression, are linked
to an increased risk.
Mentally stimulating activities like taking a college course,
àà
playing strategy games, or learning to play an instrument
also provide short- and long-term brain benefits.
There is also likely a genetic component. For those individuals,
eating healthy and exercising becomes even more important. For
someone wondering if they are in the early stages, an assessment
test — called the MoCA — will allow your doctor to measure
cognitive abilities affected by Alzheimer’s.
Natalie Garcia-Montoya, MD, is board-certified in
family medicine and popular among patients for
her compassionate, evidence-based care. Dr. Garcia
offers the expertise and training to meet the entire
range of health care needs, from well-woman care
and geriatrics, to pediatrics and adolescent care.
She completed her residency and internship at the
University of New Mexico Hospital.
Dr. Garcia’s office is located in the St. Jude Heritage Medical Group,
Anaheim Hills Office, 8078 E. Santa Ana Canyon Road,
Anaheim Hills. To make an appointment, please call (714) 974-2900.
Q: What is “no scar” ACL reconstruction? How is
Q: Why am I hearing so much about
A:
A:
it different from traditional ACL surgery?
When the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is torn — an injury
common to athletes and weekend warriors — surgery is often
required to replace or “reconstruct” the damaged ligament.
A new technique, called all-inside ACL reconstruction,
replaces the longer incisions used in traditional ACL surgery
with three or four puncture-sized holes — earning it the
nickname “no scar ACL.”
While significantly improving the cosmetic result, all-inside
reconstruction offers the same long-term outcomes as
traditional ACL surgery. Made possible by recent advances in
instrumentation, all-inside ACL is a less invasive procedure that
allows a natural anatomical placement of the new ligament.
This new arthroscopic technique is performed by attaching an
ACL graft to small sockets in the femur and tibia. All-inside ACL
surgery requires only a small socket to be created and avoids
the hard outer shell of the femur and tibia, which is rich in nerve
endings. Not every patient is a candidate for all-inside ACL
surgery, speak to your doctor to better understand the benefits
and risks associated with your specific medical needs.
Interested in learning more, join Dr. Solhpour for a community
lecture on July 16, 6 p.m., see page 6 for information.
S. Shawn Solhpour, MD, is a board-certified
orthopedic surgeon who specializes in successfully
treating knee and shoulder pain, whether caused
by sports injury or arthritis. Dedicated to making
knee and shoulder surgeries less invasive,
Dr. Solhpour is one of a small number of surgeons
in Southern California to specialize in all-inside
ACL reconstruction.
Before joining St. Jude Heritage Medical Group, Dr. Solhpour completed
his orthopedic residency at Harvard, followed by fellowships in
Biological Joint Reconstruction, Sports Medicine and Shoulder Surgery,
and Trauma. Located at 2141 N. Harbor Blvd., Suite 35000, Fullerton,
please call (714) 626-8630 to make an appointment.
vitamin D lately?
There’s a lot of conversation about vitamin D — both within
the medical community and in the media — because vitamin
D deficiency is so common.
“D” is not only a vitamin but also a hormone your body
makes from the sun. New research shows that a shortage
of this powerhouse element may contribute to a long list
of health issues, including osteoporosis, depression, cancer,
diabetes, heart disease and immune function — possibly even
weight gain. While good health is never about just one thing,
vitamin D definitely plays an essential role in your well-being.
Even with vitamin D-fortified orange juice, milk and other
foods, it’s difficult to meet your body’s requirements through
dietary sources alone. And as we age, our bodies lose
the ability to mobilize vitamin D effectively. So how much
vitamin D do you need? Adequate levels are probably highly
individualized, but at a minimum, 600 IUs per day, and
people older than 70 should aim for 800 IUs.
A simple blood test will tell you whether you’re one of the
millions of Americans deficient in this essential vitamin — talk
to your doctor about it. Also, discuss adding a high quality
vitamin D supplement, something almost every adult needs.
A highly-experienced internist, Paulynne Liang, MD,
offers comprehensive care to meet the needs of men
and women at every stage of life. A graduate
of UCLA Medical School and board-certified in Internal
Medicine, Dr. Liang is dedicated to understanding
each patient’s unique concerns, while providing the
education and support they need to take control of
their health and improve their well-being.
To make an appointment with Dr. Liang, please call (714) 680-0050.
She is located in the St. Jude Heritage Medical Group, Fullerton
Medical Offices, 2720 N. Harbor Blvd., Suite 230, Fullerton.
HEALTH MATTERS | SPRING/SUMMER 2015
9
ST. J UDE MEMORIAL FOU NDATION
Bob and Linda Boyd
Beating Cancer, Restoring Hope
Linda Boyd Credits the St. Jude Crosson Cancer Institute
If you want to see an example
of how St. Jude Medical Center
and the Crosson Cancer Institute
saves lives, look no further than
Linda Boyd.
Recently remarried, Linda enjoyed
spending time with Bob, her new
husband, as well as her children
and grandchildren, traveling and
tending to her small business.
Then colon cancer struck.
“There’s no history of colon
cancer in my family,” said Linda. “I
did the right things. I ate healthy
foods and exercised. Cancer was
the last thing I expected.”
Following a colonoscopy, Linda
received the diagnosis that
would change her life: Stage
3B colon cancer.
“It’s almost surreal when the doctor
tells you that it’s cancer,” she said.
“I was in shock. I felt frozen.”
Surgery was scheduled five days
later. Two tumors and 29 lymph
nodes were removed … and
cancer was detected in one of
the lymph nodes meaning it had
traveled from the colon.
10
ST. JUDE MEDICAL CENTER
“My surgeon, Dr. Kevin Kinzinger,
came into my room to talk to
me,” she said. “That’s when I
knew chemo was in my future.”
“They were very honest and open,
and I appreciated that,” she said.
“One of my oncologists said,
‘Nobody wants to go through
chemo but right now, it’s the best
treatment we have.’”
Over six months, Linda would
receive 11 treatments.
More than two years after her
diagnosis, not only is Linda healthy,
she wants to give back to the
Institute that restored her health.
The fact is, patients at the
St. Jude Crosson Cancer Institute
will find the comprehensive
treatments they need as well as
the compassionate care that is at
the core of all the services that
St. Jude Medical Center provides.
Whether it’s radiation treatments,
robotic surgery, immune therapy
or more — the goal is to ensure
that patients receive only the best
care when battling cancer.
Perhaps that’s why St. Jude Medical
Center was the first in California
to receive STAR (Survivor Training
and Rehabilitation) certification,
considered the gold standard in
cancer rehabilitation.
“I can’t thank the Cancer Institute
enough,” she continued. “They are
a winning team — when you have
the best resources available, you
attract the brightest physicians
and staff. But the philanthropic
support — from patients and the
community — is critical to ensure
access to the highest quality in
cancer care.”
“I am so grateful to St. Jude … and
all the donors who help support
programs and equipment for
the Cancer Institute,” she said.
“Without this Institute, and the
great doctors, nurses and staff,
people like me wouldn’t be able to
get the best life-saving treatments
available close to home. When
you hear that you have cancer,
you are staring death in the face …
and thanks to the graciousness of
God, the skill of the St. Jude staff,
and the generosity of wonderful
donors, I am able to live a full,
wonderful life.”
“I’ve participated in the A Walk
Among the Stars fashion show —
featuring models that have had
cancer,” she said. “We are all at
different places in our journey.
Some have been cancer-free for
years and others are beginning or
finishing treatment, but we don’t
spend a lot of time talking about
cancer — we talk about our family,
job — the important things in
our lives.”
Linda still sees her doctors regularly
for follow-up appointments and
gets a colonoscopy every year.
“Just a few years ago, my prognosis
would have been terminal. Now my
future is filled with hope.”
“After my first post-chemo
colonoscopy, my doctor peeked
around the curtain, gave me a
thumbs up and said, ‘All clear!’
I was so relieved.”
If you would like to support the
St. Jude Crosson Cancer Institute,
call the Memorial Foundation at
(714) 992-3033.
St. Jude Memorial
Foundation Sponsors
Free Financial and Estate
Planning Workshops
Peter Kote, J.D. reviews estate
options with Marianna Watkins.
Critical Conversations on End-of-Life Decisions
Take Care of Yourself and Loved Ones
“Financial literacy is critical in
today’s world,” said California
licensed fiduciary, Peter Kote,
J.D. “How does one live well
now, provide for loved ones,
and leave a legacy? What endof-life decisions should you
and your family members be
making now?”
These are a few of the questions
that Kote asks those attending
the free “It’s Your Money”
and “It’s Your Estate”
workshops, sponsored by
St. Jude Memorial Foundation
to help families deal with estate
planning, advance health
care directives and other
legal documents to ensure
that their estates and health
care decisions are made in
accordance with their wishes.
Kote speaks from firsthand
experience.
“My father was in intensive care
during the last 30 days of his
life, he couldn’t speak because
he had an endotracheal tube
down his throat,” recalled Kote.
“I’ll never forget how he seemed
to be begging us, through his
eyes, to remove the tube.”
“Sadly, we never talked about
death and his wishes for endof-life care so, we had no legal
authority to make decisions,”
he said. “When my father fell
into a coma, disconnecting life
support was one of the easier
decisions we made because
we knew it would release him
from his suffering.”
Kote wants to make sure this
doesn’t happen to others. For
that reason, he began offering
free workshops that address
such topics as advance health
care directives, charitable
giving and financial literacy.
“At St. Jude Medical Center,
we have been working on an
initiative called Conversation
Ready,” said Barry Ross,
vice president of Healthy
Communities at the hospital.
“The goal of the initiative is
to encourage people to have
conversations on what matters
at end-of-life before it is a
crisis, document their wishes,
provide the forms to their
health care providers, and for
us to ensure that their wishes
are honored.”
St. Jude is also partnering on
a grant from the Coalition of
Compassionate Care to train
interested people in educating
the community about end-oflife care planning.
Advance Directive and other
legal forms are available at
www.stjudemedicalcenter.org.
Type Advance Care Planning
in the Search box.
For more information on
advance directives or to
register for one of Peter Kote’s
free workshops, please contact
Carolyn Swanson director of
Planned Estate Giving at
(714) 992-3033.
Join us to learn about these
important topics made fun and
interesting by Peter Kote, J.D.,
and his guest speakers.
IT’S YOUR ESTATE
Free Eight-Week Workshop Series
Tuesdays: 1:30 – 3 p.m.
September 15 – November 3
Brea Senior Center
500 Sievers Ave., Brea
Topics covered: Basic and advanced
estate planning; advanced health
care directive; conservatorship;
charitable income and tax planning;
IRA, 401k plans; and the role of a
trustee and executor.
IT’S YOUR MONEY
Free Eight-Week Workshop Series
Thursdays: 2 – 3:30 p.m.
September 17 – November 5
Fullerton Community Center
340 W. Commonwealth Ave.,
Fullerton
Topics covered: Annuities and
mutual funds; financial planning;
long-term care; fixed income
investing; equity investing.
To register or request a schedule,
call the Memorial Foundation at
(714) 992-3033.
If you have included St. Jude in your
estate plan, please contact Carolyn
Swanson, director of Planned Estate
Giving at (714) 992-3033.
HEALTH MATTERS | SPRING/SUMMER 2015
11
ST. JOSEPH HEALTH SYSTEM
3345 MICHELSON DRIVE
IRVINE, CA 92612
stjudemedicalcenter.org and synergymedfit.com
The medical information contained in this newsletter should
not be substituted for the advice from your personal physician.
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A Ministry founded by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Orange
Bringing Breakthroughs in Cancer from the Lab to the Bedside
Within the St. Jude Crosson Cancer Institute, ongoing
research and cutting-edge clinical trials are putting
the promise of tomorrow into action today. Through
over 60 clinical trials a year — including many of the
most exciting and aggressive treatments available —
St. Jude Medical Center’s fellowship-trained medical
oncologists, radiation oncologists, and surgeons are
helping to create breakthroughs in cancers once
thought insurmountable.
“We are supercharging the immune system,” explains
David J. Park, MD, a board-certified medical oncologist
involved in cancer research for over 10 years and comedical director of the St. Jude Crosson Cancer Institute.
“Immunotherapies are bringing a totally new dimension to
attacking a cancer cell. The question is: Can we expand this
technology from melanoma, an area which immunotherapy
has proven very successful, to other types of cancer, such
as lung, breast and ovarian cancers?”
One of the newest and most promising advances
benefiting St. Jude Medical Center patients is
immunotherapy, which re-engineers the individual’s
immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells.
Considered a radical step forward in finding a cure for
cancer, the Crosson Cancer Institute is currently involved
in multiple immunotherapy trials targeting lung cancer,
the leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S.
St. Jude partners with the nation’s top cancer research
programs — including the National Cancer Institute, the
UCLA-TRIO cancer research network, and leading oncology
research cooperatives — to routinely offer a wide range
of clinical trials. From cancer vaccines to new targeted
chemotherapies, the hospital’s research and clinical trial
program involves every type of cancer, including colon,
stomach, lung, brain, prostate, breast and ovarian cancers,
as well as lymphoma, leukemia and myeloma.
For more information,
or to learn about
eligibility requirements
for open clinical trials,
please call our Oncology
Research Office at
(714) 446-5642 or
our UCLA-TRIO
Research Coordinator
at (714) 446-5804.