Almost a year has passed since Superstorm Sandy, and our community has shown great fortitude while we rebuild.
As we look ahead to the new year, we know that our communities will continue to grow and thrive.
The landscape of health care is evolving, and Meridian
Health is implementing programs to shape the future of health care. While changes lie ahead, at Meridian Health you can expect attentive, quality, and integrated care. We are expanding to better serve our community with Meridian
Health Village at Jackson. It will be your “one-stop shop” for health and wellness, with primary and urgent care, medical and surgical specialists, imaging and laboratory services, and fi tness and wellness care all in a single destination.
Meridian Health is working together with Geisinger
Gold, a nationally recognized Medicare Advantage product, to offer quality coverage for the Medicare population in Monmouth and Ocean counties. With more than 700 physicians in the Geisinger Health Plan’s network, Geisinger
Gold is ranked one of the top 10 plans in the nation.* To fi nd out whether Geisinger Gold is a good fi t for you or a loved one, visit MeridianGeisingerGold.com.
In this issue, we also take a closer look at the services that help women stay well. From breast health to obstetrics care for high-risk pregnancies, our physicians have the expertise to help women live their healthiest lives.
We wish your family a happy and healthy holiday season! We look forward to helping you stay well in 2014.
Sincerely,
4
Health Briefs
6
Enjoying a Healthy Life
Thanks to Coordinated Care
8
Back to a Full Life After Two
Knee Replacements
9
Weight-Loss Surgery
Transforms Man’s Life
10
Ankle Surgery Sparks
Renewed Energy
11
Fertility Specialist Restores
Young Mother’s Faith
12
Same Day Surgery Helps
Brick Mom
14
Getting to the Heart of the Matter
15
Personalized Health Care Is
Centered on You
2
John K. Lloyd, FACHE
President, Meridian Health
TO LEARN MORE ABOUT OPEN
ENROLLMENT WITH GEISINGER
GOLD, TURN TO  PAGE 26!
*NCQA’s Medicare Health Insurance Plan Ratings 2013 – 2014
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.
GORDON N. LITWIN, ESQ., Chairman
JOHN K. LLOYD, FACHE, President
CHRISIE SCOTT, Vice President of Marketing and Corporate Communications
ELLIOT FRANK, M.D., Medical Advisor
HealthViews production team: Michael McCauley, Gabriella Heizler,
Jacki Kronstedt
© 2013 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.
Download the Meridian HealthViews app for free from the App Store on iTunes.
Simply go to the store and search
“HealthViews.”
Ladies, learn 10 things you can do to help live longer, better, and healthier lives in our featured article, available on November 5 at www.facebook.com/MeridianHealthNJ .
Meridian Health tweets hot health-related headlines and local news pieces regularly at www.twitter.com/MeridianNJ .
Not sure how to prepare your daughter for a fi rst visit to the OB-GYN? Show her this expert video with Jocelyn
Carlo, M.D., as she discusses step by step what to expect at www.youtube.com/MeridianHealthNJ .
Sign up for free e-newsletters on cardiovascular and pediatric health topics at www.MeridianHealth.com/enewsletters .

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16
Exceptional Cardiac Care
Close to Home
17
Young Thespian Triumphs
Over Type 1 Diabetes
18
Donation Helps Build a Brighter Future
19
A Recipe for Success
9
a health publication from Southern Ocean Medical Center
20
A Cure Found for
Veteran’s Deadly
Infection
21
Meridian Community
Health Programs
27 6 Ways to Keep
Your Joints Healthy
28 Managing Chronic
Conditions
While Pregnant
30 My Health Views
Exceptional Cardiac Care
Manage Chronic
Conditions While Pregnant
Ankle Surgery Gives
Welder a Fresh Start
Personalized Care Is
Focused on You visit us online at SouthernOceanMedicalCenter.com
Harry Hakes’ high blood pressure had gone untreated for some time, causing shortness of breath and swelling in his legs and feet. Fortunately, medication has helped get his health back on track. Turn to page 16 to read Harry’s story.
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1. Milk
2. Eggs
3. Fish (e.g., bass, fl ounder, cod)
4. Crustacean shellfi sh
(e.g., crab, lobster, shrimp)
5. Tree nuts (e.g., almonds, walnuts, pecans)
6. Peanuts
7. Wheat
8. Soybeans
Source: www.fda.gov
are more children with food allergies in your child’s classroom than when you were a kid? If so, you’re right.
Studies indicate that food allergies as well as skin sensitivities, like eczema, are on the rise. And a new government report shows they’ve dramatically increased in just the past 14 years.
Whether due to environment, diet, or other factors, experts don’t understand exactly why allergies are more prevalent these days. But early detection can help avoid complications and improve a child’s quality of life.
“If you suspect your child has an allergy, talk with your doctor right away,” says Gerald Almazan, M.D., a pediatrician affi liated with Ocean
Medical Center and K. Hovnanian
Children’s Hospital at Jersey Shore
University Medical Center. “A severe allergic reaction can be life threatening to children, and we need to be vigilant to protect them.”
TOP-NOTCH CARE FOR KIDS
With more than 100 specialists, K. Hovnanian
Children’s Hospital is the largest provider of pediatric care in Monmouth and Ocean counties.
Explore our specialties and meet our doctors at
KHovnanianChildrensHospital.com.
higher risk of developing the disease. Although most cases of breast cancer are not genetic, it is estimated that up to 10 percent involve genetic mutations, the most common of which are mutations of the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, which are passed from parent to child.
A factor that may increase your risk for inherited breast cancer is having fi rst-degree relatives (a mother, daughter, or sister) with breast cancer.
“If you have a close family history of breast cancer, you may choose to talk with a genetic counselor about the benefi ts of getting tested for these mutations,” says Cynthia Genovese, M.D., of Ocean Medical Center. “If you know you carry the breast cancer gene, there are steps you can take to protect yourself, such as beginning mammograms earlier than age 40.”
MEET OUR NURSE NAVIGATORS
Our registered nurse navigators assure individualized assistance, support, and services for those diagnosed with cancer. To learn how we help our cancer patients and their families every step of the way on their journeys through treatment, go to
MeridianCancerCareNJ.com/nursenavigators.

power as you age? A new study found that it is possible to prevent the onset of dementia and other forms of mental decline. But herbs, hormones, and vitamin supplements won’t do the trick. The study found that the key to maintaining mental function is to give your brain regular workouts.
“It’s never too early to practice brain-boosting workouts,” says William K. Power, M.D., board certifi ed in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Medicine at
Southern Ocean Medical Center. “To improve mental sharpness as you age, fi nd activities that challenge your brain. Pick up a crossword puzzle, learn a foreign language, or read something new.”
He adds: “Although mental workouts consistently provide the greatest brain boost, don’t forget your physical health, too. You want your body to be able to keep up with your mind.”
JOIN US FOR NATIONAL MEMORY
SCREENING DAY
Meridian Health and the Alzheimer’s
Foundation of America are offering memory screenings and lectures during National
Memory Screening Day on November 19. If you or a loved one is experiencing increased forgetfulness or trouble concentrating, a memory screening could be benefi cial.
Turn to page 21 to learn more!
EXPECT GREAT THINGS
Riverview’s Childbirth Center is designed to create a spa-like experience with extraordinary care for expecting moms! To learn about our Concierge Care services, exceptional doctors, and more, go to RiverviewMedicalCenter.com.
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Betty Sagurton, of Middletown, led a happy, healthy life, working out and spending time with her family. But in
February 2013, her world was turned upside down.
“I went for my routine mammogram at Riverview as usual,” says Betty, 60.
“Later that day I got a call asking me to come back for a follow-up.”
When Betty returned to the
Women’s Center, Bokran Won, M.D., fellowship trained breast imager and medical director of the Center, sat down with Betty to review her films.
“She showed me new calcifications and recommended I have a biopsy,”
Betty says. “I had a sense then that something was wrong. Two days later I received a ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) breast cancer diagnosis.”
According to Dr. Won, DCIS is an early-stage noninvasive breast cancer that is confined to the milk ducts. If untreated, however, it can progress to invasive breast cancer.
Understanding All the Options
Betty began researching her options.
She met with Debra Camal, M.D., medical director of the breast program for Meridian Cancer Care and a breast surgeon at Riverview.
“At my appointment, my husband, daughter, and I asked Dr. Camal questions until almost nine o’clock at night,” Betty says. “I thought any doctor who was that dedicated and willing to spend this much time answering questions was one I could count on. I knew she was going to be my surgeon.”
Dr. Camal recommended a lumpectomy with radiation, the first choice for localized DCIS; however, because of Betty’s family history,
Dr. Camal recommended genetic testing before surgery to rule out the possibility of a genetic mutation.
Betty met with Jayne Murphy, a board certified genetics counselor at
Riverview, who went through Betty’s family tree with her. When her results came back positive for BRCA2, a gene mutation linked to hereditary breast and ovarian cancer, Betty was shocked.
With the genetic mutation confirmed, Betty and Dr. Camal decided a bilateral mastectomy was a reasonable option given the very high risk of additional breast cancer in the future.
“Many women inquire about bilateral mastectomy because of concerns about future cancer risk; however, it is not a guarantee that breast cancer will not recur,”
Dr. Camal says. “Genetic testing should be strongly considered before undergoing any surgery.”
Facing Another Challenge
In addition to the breast cancer diagnosis, Betty had also recently undergone ultrasound testing after experiencing pain in her lower abdomen.
Although her tests came back negative for ovarian cancer, given the
BRCA2 and breast cancer diagnosis, Betty opted to have her ovaries removed.
“Not all women who inherit BRCA2 will develop ovarian cancer or breast cancer, and removing at-risk tissue will not guarantee women will not develop cancer later on,” says Michael Manuel,
M.D., a board certified gynecologic
Debra E. Camal, M.D.
Board certified in General
Surgery
Oakhurst • 732-531-5200
Negin N. Griffith, M.D.
Board certified in Plastic
Surgery
Holmdel • 732-335-0335
Michael R. Manuel, M.D.
Board certified in Gynecologic
Oncology and Obstetrics/
Gynecology
Neptune • 732-897-7944 oncologist on staff at Riverview and part of Meridian Cancer Care. “Betty and I discussed the benefits and risks of surgery, and based on her medical and family history, we felt it was the best option for her.”
A Life-Changing Decision
In addition to the removal of her ovaries and the bilateral mastectomy,
Betty would also undergo reconstructive surgery, with Negin
Griffith, M.D., a board certified plastic surgeon at Riverview.
With appropriate candidates, surgeons will do their best to perform the first stage of reconstruction at the same time as the mastectomy operation, which reduces the number of surgeries needed and provides a psychological benefit of restoring a woman’s breasts in a shorter time.
“A bilateral nipple-sparing mastectomy preserves the skin and nipple-areolar complex, while removing the breast tissue beneath. It can provide a very natural-looking reconstruction
Encourage the women in your life to schedule their annual mammograms! At the Women’s Center at Riverview, we make it as easy and as pleasant as possible with extended hours, digital mammography with CAD technology, and fellowship trained breast imagers. Visit RiverviewMedicalCenter.com/
WomensCenter for more information.

and save the additional step of having to do a nipple reconstruction,”
Dr. Griffi th says. “Not everyone is a candidate for a nipple-sparing operation, and excellent results can be achieved with other forms of mastectomies as well.”
On April 25, Betty underwent six hours of surgery, including the
Thanks to early detection from a routine mammogram and the expertise of Meridian Cancer Care and Riverview Medical
Center, Betty is back to enjoying life, attending her grandson’s baseball game just days after her surgery. Betty is pictured above with her husband, Mike, and grandchildren, James and Chloe.
with Dr. Camal; the removal of her ovaries with Dr. Manuel; and reconstructive surgery with
Dr. Griffi th. After just a day and a half in the hospital, Betty was released home to begin her new life.
Today, Betty feels healthy, and credits her “dream team” at Riverview for giving her a new outlook on life.
“Every staff member I came in contact with at Riverview treated me with dignity and compassion,” Betty says. “So many people travel to New
York because they think they are going to get the best treatment, but I was lucky enough to get the best treatment just minutes from home. I am so lucky that these surgeons choose to live here and practice at Riverview.”
By Caitlin Coyle
The VNUS Closure ® offers a minimally invasive option for varicose veins so you can love your legs again!
Approximately 25 million Americans suffer from venous disease, a condition which often results in varicose veins and other painful symptoms. In fact, for many, this is not just an aesthetic issue. Venous disease frequently forces people to change their lifestyle, especially when they have a profession that requires them to stand all day.
The VNUS Closure procedure offers many patients a minimally invasive alternative to traditional vein stripping. This option is available at Jersey Shore University Medical Center, Ocean Medical Center,
Riverview Medical Center and now, Bayshore Community Hospital.
Taking Care of
New Jersey
Love your legs once again, call 800.560.9990 or visit BayshoreHospital.org

Daveen Miller loves spending time with her family and likes to cook.
The Brick resident has traveled with friends and family all over the world.
Her favorite trip was an
African safari.
8
Traveling abroad has always been
Daveen Miller’s passion. It helps her escape from the stresses of everyday life and provides the opportunity to bond with her traveling companions.
In fact, Daveen takes each nephew and niece on a trip as a high school graduation present. Her most recent trip, a summer vacation to England and France with her only niece, was threatened by Daveen’s increasing inability to walk. “My pain was so bad that I couldn’t even bend my knees to get into my car,” Daveen explains.
“I was planning my niece’s graduation trip, and all I could think about was how painful it would be walking up and down all of the stairs in England and France.”
Slowed Down by Chronic Pain
This wasn’t the fi rst time Daveen, a
Brick resident, struggled with knee pain.
As a critical care unit nurse, Daveen has spent her entire career working
12-hour shifts with little time to rest her feet. Working long hours took a toll on Daveen’s knees, and nearly 15 years ago she saw Joseph Bogdan, M.D., an orthopedic surgeon at Ocean Medical
Center, for the fi rst time.
At that time, her arthritic pain was treated with injections, providing temporary relief. Last year, though, the pain returned even worse than before, making it diffi cult for Daveen to work her regular shifts, walk up and down stairs, and even get into her car.
Dr. Bogdan re-evaluated her knees and determined that her arthritis was so bad, a knee replacement in each knee would be the only option for full relief.
A Solution to Stay on the Go
“After attempting to relieve the pain with conservative options, like medication, therapy, and injections, we decided that knee replacements would be Daveen’s only source of long-term relief,” Dr. Bogdan says.
“Joint replacements have the ability to last a lifetime, with surgical techniques that allow for well-placed and well-aligned joints.” With her
Joseph P. Bogdan, M.D.
Board certifi ed in Orthopedic
Surgery
Brick • 732-840-7500 summer trip in mind, Daveen decided to undergo surgery for a left knee replacement in November 2012 and a right knee replacement in January 2013.
After each surgery, Daveen went to inpatient rehabilitation at
Meridian Subacute Rehab at Wall, practicing range-of-motion exercises and slowly regaining strength in her knees. After 10 days of inpatient rehabilitation, Daveen was prescribed outpatient rehabilitation. After a few short months of rehabilitation and recovery, Daveen was off to
England and France with her niece.
“I was climbing stairs and walking for hours at a time without any pain, and I could actually keep up with my niece,” Daveen says. “I could not have made a better decision.”
By Randi Russell
Join us for an afternoon of live jazz, brunch, and more to learn about the Total Joint Replacement Center at
Ocean Medical Center. Turn to page 25 for details.

Angelo Chinnici, M.D.
Asbury Park • 732-775-7978
Wall resident William Young, 59, struggled with his weight for as long as he could remember. He tried many different diets, but his weight continued to climb to an unhealthy 350 pounds. It wasn’t until William had routine blood tests taken in December 2009 that he had enough. Already a diabetic, the tests revealed his blood sugar levels had reached their highest point yet.
“I decided I needed to do something serious to get my health in order,” William explains. “I asked my primary care doctor about weightloss surgery.”
Weight-loss surgery has changed William
Young’s health for the better, giving him a chance to enjoy a longer life.
William’s physician, Angelo
Chinnici, M.D., evaluated his health to ensure William would be an appropriate candidate for bariatric surgery. He also talked with him about his motivation for surgery.
“It’s important for patients to be physically and mentally ready to embark on weight-loss surgery,” Dr. Chinnici explains. “Your primary care physician plays a key role in not only assessing and providing medical clearance for the surgery, but also helping you achieve long-term success.”
Dr. Chinnici referred William to
Seth Kipnis, M.D., medical director of the center for Weight Loss Surgery at Jersey Shore University Medical
Center. Dr. Kipnis explained William’s surgical options. William decided to have adjustable gastric banding, or
Lap-Band® surgery.
Seth Kipnis, M.D.
Board certifi ed in General
Surgery
Neptune • 732-775-5005
Commitment and Support
For six months, William prepared for surgery under the direction and support of the center for Weight Loss Surgery at
Jersey Shore. He regularly worked with a dietician to learn better food choices and eating habits. With hard work,
William lost 25 pounds before surgery and learned a healthy new way of life to prepare for the postsurgery lifestyle. He also began attending the psychological, exercise, and diet counseling support group, which meets at the center twice a month.
“It’s important for patients to begin the process of making lifestyle changes before surgery. A good surgical candidate is someone who is committed to making the efforts necessary for success,” Dr. Kipnis explains. “Surgery is just one weight-loss tool. It doesn’t replace a healthy lifestyle.”
Jersey Shore University Medical Center offers Lap-Band ® and sleeve gastrectomy surgical weight-loss options. To learn more, attend one of our free educational seminars. Turn to page 25 to learn more!
A Healthy Beginning
William had Lap-Band surgery in
September 2010 and was home the same day. He has lost 115 pounds and continues to drop weight. His success has transformed his health.
“I used to inject myself with two different kinds of insulin and take pills each day to control my diabetes. Within six months, I was down to just one oral medication,” William says. “I also no longer have sleep apnea, and my high blood pressure is under control.”
Health changes like these are the primary reason why Jersey Shore offers the surgery.
“Weight-loss surgery is truly a life-changing event. It offers a new beginning, a chance at longer life,”
Dr. Kipnis explains. “At Jersey Shore, we provide patients the medical expertise of a large health system and offer support every step of the way.”
9

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William Black has been playing competitive pool for more than 40 years. The Manahawkin resident was excited to get back to his pool game after his surgery.
William Black, a 73-year-old retired ironworker from Manahawkin, suffered most of his adult life from severe ankle and foot pain. The pain stemmed from a childhood football injury that never healed correctly. The injury resulted in a foot deformity that made it difficult for William to walk, and caused him continuous pain.
As an adult, William owned a welding company, which required him to be on his feet for hours at a time. Hardworking and dedicated,
William learned how to work through the pain. The pain even made it difficult for him to enjoy one of his favorite pastimes, playing competitive pool. He took over-the-counter pain medication and iced his ankle for a few hours before every pool competition so that he would be able to play through the pain. “I would go to bed, and my foot would start throbbing,” William explains. “The pain was getting so bad that I couldn’t even sleep at night.”
When he stopped enjoying everyday activities because of the pain, William knew it was time to see a specialist. “For the past few years,
I could barely walk because of the deformity,” he says. In 2012, he was referred to Matthew Wolenski, M.D., an orthopedic surgeon specializing in foot and ankle surgery at Southern
Ocean Medical Center.
Even though William already had two knee replacements and a hip replacement before his ankle surgery, he still had severe pain and trouble walking. “William’s was one of the worst X-rays I had ever seen,”
Dr. Wolenski says. “As years went on, William experienced more and more pain because the deformity and arthritis were worsening.”
In November 2012, Dr. Wolenski performed a right double hind-foot fusion, in which the ankle and joint below the ankle are fused. The surgery
Matthew J. Wolenski, M.D.
Manahawkin • 609-971-7616 would reposition William’s foot and take away the pain. “It is not common for ankle injuries to progress to the level William’s had, but it is important to remember that for any type of ankle and foot injury, there are solutions to relieve pain and get patients back to living a fully functional and enjoyable life.”
And that is exactly what William is living now. After surgery and about four months of rehab, William is back to welding in his garage and playing competitive pool. “I never thought I’d be able to say ‘I am 73, retired, and living a happy, pain-free life,’” William says.
By Randi Russell
Keep Moving with Meridian Movement
Bone and joint health are critical to everyday health. Your Meridian Health team is committed to helping you maintain this health. Learn how at
MeridianHealth.com/Movement.

Miguel Damien, M.D.
Board certifi ed in Obstetrics-
Gynecology and Reproductive
Endocrinology
Little Silver • 732-758-6511
When the snow began to fall on
December 26, 2010, Sara McGowan and her husband, Joseph, were settling in and waiting for the blizzard to pass.
Sara, who was four months pregnant, suddenly did not feel right, so the couple braved the storm to go to the Emergency Department at
Riverview Medical Center.
Sara had experienced a miscarriage.
The next day, Sara underwent a dilation and curettage (D&C) — which removes the contents of the uterus in order to stop bleeding and prevent infection — with Kelly Hammond,
M.D., Sara’s obstetrician on staff at
Riverview.
“I could cry talking about how caring the nurses were that day,”
Sara says. “They held my hand and comforted me during a really bad time and told me it would work out for me.”
Finding Answers
Given that Sara’s loss occurred in her second trimester, Dr. Hammond referred her to Miguel Damien,
M.D., a board certifi ed reproductive endocrinologist at Riverview.
Dr. Damien diagnosed Sara with a septate uterus, the most common abnormality of the uterus that can cause high-risk pregnancy and a higher risk of miscarriage.
“With a septate uterus, a thick wall of tissue separates the uterus, causing poor blood supply, which causes the embryo to stick and leaves it unable to grow, increasing the chances of a miscarriage. It appears normal on the outside but is abnormal in shape on the inside,” Dr. Damien says.
A hysteroscopy — a surgical procedure in which the septum is removed and the uterus is reshaped — can help restore the uterus’ reproductive function.
“During a hysteroscopy, the septum is removed to restore blood fl ow and improve fertility,” Dr. Damien says.
Forging Ahead
On February 4, 2011, Sara underwent surgery with Dr. Damien, and four months later, she was pregnant again.
“It was an emotionally tough pregnancy,” Sara says. “I kept thinking the whole time that I would lose the baby again.”
In January 2012, during one of the few snow storms of the season,
Michael Karoly, M.D., an
OB-GYN in practice with
Dr. Hammond, helped
Sara deliver a healthy
10-pound baby boy the couple named
Jackson, their
“miracle baby.”
Ten months later, shortly after
Superstorm Sandy, the family learned they would be expecting a new addition. And in July
2013, Dr. Hammond delivered the couple’s second child,
Emily Faith.
Kelly Hammond, M.D.
Board certifi ed in Obstetrics-
Gynecology
Little Silver • 732-842-0673
“I chose her name because it fi t after everything we had been through.
I obtained a lot of faith through all of our hardships,” Sara says. “It took a lot to get pregnant, and thanks to the expertise of Drs. Hammond, Karoly, and Damien, my husband and I were able to start a family and begin life as parents.”
By Caitlin Coyle
Sara McGowan, pictured here with
4-month-old Emily Faith, is a sixth-grade math teacher. She enjoys spending time with her family at home in their backyard.
Visit the newly revamped MeridianMomtourage.com for access to the Jersey Shore’s largest women’s health network for wellness information, social networking, and more! Join Meridian Health on November 2 and 3 as we once again sponsor the New Jersey Women’s Expo at Brookdale
Community College.
11

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Like most constantly on-the-go moms,
Crystal Verdura, 41, hesitates to take time for herself — even when it comes to having surgery. So when the Brick resident learned that she needed to have her gallbladder removed, she wanted to have a convenient surgical process as well as a good outcome. At Ocean Medical
Center, she received both.
A Solution for Constant Pain
Her path to surgery began two years ago, when she started having stomach pains that seemed to be triggered by fatty foods. “The pains just got worse over time,” she says. “Eventually, it got so bad that a glass of chocolate milk would set them off.”
When an ultrasound revealed multiple stones in her gallbladder, Crystal wasn’t surprised. “My mother and siblings have had gallstones, so when I learned that
I had them as well, it made perfect sense,” she says.
When searching the Internet for a surgeon covered by her insurance, Crystal found Mark
Schwartz, M.D., a board certifi ed general surgeon at Ocean. “His online reviews were great, which got my attention,” she says. “And when I met with him at his offi ce in May
Crystal Verdura lives just down the street from
Eagle Point beach, where she spends a lot of time with family and friends.

Mark Schwartz, M.D.
Board certifi ed in General
Surgery
Brick • 732-836-1500
2013, he was so patient and friendly, and he took the time to explain what was causing my symptoms and what the surgery would involve.”
Dr. Schwartz told her that he could remove her gallbladder laparoscopically
(a minimally invasive technique that uses specialized instruments) through four small incisions.
“The surgery takes about 45 minutes and is done under general anesthesia,”
Dr. Schwartz says. “It’s a very routine procedure, and patients almost always go home the same day.”
He was ready to schedule the surgery immediately, but Crystal hesitated — the school year was ending and she had a family vacation coming up — when would she fi nd the
“Everything in our facility is easy to fi nd and navigate,” says Mickey Coles,
R.N., a perioperative services nurse manager.
Same day surgery procedures performed at Ocean include hernia repair, gallbladder removal, knee and shoulder arthroscopies, and breast surgery to remove benign or cancerous growths.
“Patients get to know our layout when they visit for their preadmission tests,” Mickey says. “On the day of surgery, they know they’ll be coming to the same place and seeing some of the same friendly faces.”
“Everything was very convenient,”
Crystal affi rms. “The appointment for my presurgery blood work one form, she was whisked into the operating room at 7:30 a.m. sharp.
She awoke an hour later, groggy but mostly pain-free.
“The recovery nurses were fantastic and kept checking on me to see if there was anything I needed,” she says.
Dr. Schwartz notes that one key advantage of Ocean is that if patients do need to be admitted (which happens very infrequently), an inpatient unit is steps away in the same building.
Ready for Summer
Crystal, however, was ready to leave within a few hours after surgery, and by 12:30 p.m., she was relaxing at home. Within 10 days, she was ready to kick off her busy summer schedule. time to schedule preoperative tests, have the surgery, and recover?
Care with Comfort and
Convenience
Crystal soon found that the Same Day
Surgery Program at Ocean is designed for convenience, while assuring safety went smoothly, and I was able to complete the pre-op questionnaire and register online.”
On the day of surgery, after arriving at Ocean and signing just
“The whole experience was truly minimally invasive — and that includes the surgery as well as the process,” she says. “I couldn’t have asked for more.”
and comfort. Ocean has 12 operating suites and four endoscopy rooms, 34 bays for preparation and recovery, and a comfortable visitor waiting area with a lounge and a balcony.
We aim to make your surgical visit as easy as possible by providing educational information that will help prepare you for your experience. To fi nd out the answers to your questions, check out our Same Day Surgery FAQ at OceanMedicalCenter.com.
HV-OMC-Surgery-8.375x3-13_Layout 1 9/20/13 10:16 AM Page 1
Choosing to have your procedure at Ocean Medical Center means choosing quality, experience, and the peace of mind of being close to home. At Ocean Medical Center we:
• Bring the latest laparoscopic and minimally invasive techniques to reduce trauma and speed recovery for our patients.
• Perform more than 8,000 surgeries yearly, including: appendix, bariatric, breast, colon, gallbladder and hernia procedures.
• Have a dedicated operating room staff that is recognized nationally for nursing excellence.
For more information call 1-800-DOCTORS ® or visit OceanMedicalCenter.com
Taking Care of
New Jersey
13

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For many years, Bricktown resident
James Dick, 78, suffered from atrial fi brillation, an irregular heartbeat that causes the heart to contract very quickly, increasing his risk for stroke.
Due to other health problems, James wasn’t a candidate for blood thinners, one of the best treatments for preventing the formation of blood clots that can lead to stroke.
In many cases, patients with atrial fi brillation would have to undergo an invasive open heart operation to close the left atrial appendage, a fi ngerlike projection that comes off of the heart. Recovery would take weeks or even months. Because these patients are often sick or have other serious heart
James Dick thoroughly enjoys his job transporting high school athletes to and from their games. conditions, they may not be candidates for the surgical procedure.
“The left atrial appendage is responsible for about 90 percent of strokes in people with atrial fi brillation,” says Ashish Patel, M.D., a cardiologist and clinical cardiac electrophysiologist at Jersey Shore
University Medical Center and part of
Meridian CardioVascular Network.
“Before, there wasn’t much these patients with atrial fi brillation could do to lower their risk for stroke.”
Now there’s a cutting-edge nonsurgical procedure available at
Jersey Shore using the LARIAT™ suture delivery device. It’s available at only a handful of hospitals nationwide and gives patients like James a brand-new option for reducing stroke risk.
Cutting Off Your Risk
James jumped at the opportunity to be the fi rst patient at Jersey Shore to undergo the LARIAT procedure. “Dr. Patel explained how it works and how it would lower my risk
Ashish Patel, M.D.
Board certifi ed in
Cardiovascular Disease, Clinical
Cardiac Electrophysiology and Internal Medicine
Ocean • 732-663-0300 for stroke, so I decided to go through with it,” he says. “I wanted to be the fi rst one!”
The recently FDA-approved device involves permanently sealing off the patient’s left atrial appendage from the rest of the heart and blocking stroke-causing blood clots from traveling to the brain. The patient is under general anesthesia.
For James’ procedure, Dr. Patel threaded two thin tubes called catheters — one through a vein in the leg and one through a small incision under the rib cage — toward the left atrial appendage. There, the device goes through the catheter, tightening a loop around the base of the left atrial appendage.
“We perform the procedure through blood vessels, so there’s very little postsurgical pain and the patient can go home within one or two days,”
Dr. Patel says.
Shortly after the surgery, James returned to his regular activities, including walking his dog and, as a school bus driver for Bricktown, driving students to class trips and sports events. “I can’t say enough good things about the care I received at Jersey Shore,” he says. “I feel fortunate to live near a facility that offers a procedure that’s not yet available everywhere and could possibly save my life.”
The LARIAT suture delivery device procedure is a nonsurgical alternative to help prevent stroke for patients with atrial fi brillation. The Heart Rhythm
Center at Jersey Shore is one of a select group of teaching hospitals in the country offering this innovative procedure. Visit
JerseyShoreUniversityMedicalCenter.com to learn more.

For 60-year-old Kathy Ellis, executive vice president and COO of New
Jersey Natural Gas, staying on top of her health is an important part of her busy life. However, between work and a very active family life, scheduling multiple medical appointments is the last thing on her mind.
“My job can get very stressful,” the Belmar resident says. She noted the particular strain associated with
Hurricane Sandy. “We had 35,000 customers on the Barrier Islands without gas and it took us two months to get all of the repairs fi nished; we were incredibly busy. That was a very stressful time — for all of us.”
All in One Place
So when it came time to schedule her annual checkup, Kathy enlisted the quality care of Anthony DeNoia, M.D., and the Meridian Executive Health
Program at Jersey Shore University
Medical Center. The program is specifi cally designed for people with busy schedules who require streamlined and high-quality service.
The approach involves a one-day all-inclusive health care experience with a comprehensive physical examination and evidence-based screening tests tailored specifi cally to a patient’s personal and family medical history.
Anthony P. DeNoia, M.D.
Board certifi ed in Internal
Medicine
Atlantic Highlands •
732-291-3865
Kathy came in knowing she had high cholesterol. She was concerned but didn’t know whether she should take medication to lower it. She feared the possible side effects.
As a result, Dr. DeNoia ordered a computed tomography coronary calcium score to evaluate the need for medication. Fortunately, Kathy had a zero score. “Since she was asymptomatic, a zero calcium score meant that she was at low risk for plaque buildup and coronary artery disease,” Dr. DeNoia says. “This meant that Kathy did not necessarily have to take medication, such as a statin, to lower her cholesterol and avoided the possible side effects of the drug — a concern for many patients.”
Belmar resident Kathy
Ellis stays active and enjoys riding her bike two times per week.
Coordinated Care
At the end of the day, the results and recommendations are communicated to the patient and forwarded to his or her primary care physician. “We don’t want to compete with a patient’s primary health care provider. We’re here to evaluate and make suggestions based on the evidence we gather,” Dr. DeNoia says. “The fi nal decision on further testing and treatment will be decided by the patient’s personal physician.”
For Kathy, that means a lot less stress.
“I would absolutely recommend this program,” she says. “The way the staff treats you and approaches your health is so personal. You just know that you are in a very caring, knowledgeable, and respectful atmosphere.”
By Katelyn Chechko
The Meridian Executive Health
Program at Jersey Shore is for busy individuals. Patients can receive laboratory screenings and tests based on their needs. To learn about this program, go to
JerseyShoreUniversityMedicalCenter.com.
15

16
In July 2012, Harry Hakes, 53, thought he had a cold. “I was wheezing and short of breath,” says Harry, a Little
Egg Harbor resident. He also had swelling in his legs and feet, and he put on more than 80 pounds within just a few months. In November,
Harry asked his wife to help him tie his shoes. “She saw how swollen my legs and feet had become and insisted we go to the hospital,” he says. They went to Southern Ocean
Medical Center, located just a few miles from their home. He was diagnosed with congestive heart failure and admitted to the hospital the same day.
From Diagnosis Through
Recovery
“An ultrasound showed his heart wasn’t pumping as it should,” says James Orlando, M.D., an interventional cardiologist at
Southern Ocean and part of
Harry Hakes enjoys spending time with his three grandchildren, Alexis,
Cadence, and Keith; going to the park; biking; and visiting family.
Meridian CardioVascular Network.
“Since he didn’t have a history of a heart attack, we weren’t sure what was causing the weakness, so we took him to the cardiac catheterization lab for an angiogram.” During the angiogram, which is a diagnostic test used to examine arteries, Dr. Orlando threaded a thin tube called a catheter through a blood vessel in Harry’s wrist. He guided it toward his heart and injected a dye that makes nearby areas stand out on an X-ray.
An angiogram is often used to determine whether there are any blockages in arteries, but Harry’s test showed he didn’t have any blockages.
“We found that his blood pressure had been elevated and untreated for a period of time, which caused a condition called nonischemic cardiomyopathy, or weakness of the heart,” Dr. Orlando says.
Fortunately, Harry’s condition could be treated without surgery.
Dr. Orlando prescribed weekly infusions of a medication called milrinone, which Harry received at
Southern Ocean for three months.
James F. Orlando, M.D.
Board certifi ed in
Cardiovascular Disease and
Interventional Cardiology
Manahawkin • 609-971-3300
The drug helped improve the pumping action of his heart to make it beat more vigorously and clear the excess fl uid out of his body.
Offering Comprehensive
Cardiovascular Services
“With the cath lab, we’re able to diagnose a variety of conditions and are often able to treat them right here at Southern Ocean,” Dr. Orlando says. Patients who need more invasive procedures, such as an angioplasty to open blockages, can be transferred to
Jersey Shore University
Medical Center.
Harry’s treatment was successful, and he takes medications to control his blood pressure. He’s also made many lifestyle changes Dr. Orlando suggested, such as giving up alcohol, cutting back on fat, avoiding fast food, and eliminating salt. “When your life depends on it, it’s not so hard to make these changes,” Harry says. “I feel really good.”
At our November 13 event, Joseph Schirripa,
M.D., will discuss the connection your blood pressure has to your health and how it affects the rest of your body. Go to page 23 to learn more!

Theater is 10-year-old Jake Walsh’s passion.
He recently appeared in The Music Man in Red Bank, where he played the lead boy, Winthrop Paroo.
In spring 2011, 8-year-old Jake Walsh was feeling tired after walking the flight of stairs to his second-grade classroom. Jake’s parents, Victoria and
Martin, noticed his lack of energy and increased thirst, which caused him to go to the bathroom frequently.
Victoria mentioned this to her friend Cheryl and her husband,
Thomas Lozowski, D.O., a Meridianaffiliated family practice physician.
Since Dr. Lozowski has a son with type 1 diabetes, these behaviors raised a red flag. Upon going to the Walshes’ home to test Jake’s blood glucose, Dr. Lozowski found that it was well over safe levels. “I packed a bag and rushed Jake to the
Emergency Department at Jersey
Shore University Medical Center,”
Victoria says.
A Life-Changing Diagnosis
In May 2011, Jake was admitted to
K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital at Jersey Shore under the care of Cynthia Meyers-Seifer, M.D., a pediatric endocrinologist and part of
Meridian Pediatric Network. When
Dr. Meyers-Seifer diagnosed Jake with type 1 diabetes, Jake was scared. “I didn’t understand what diabetes was.
When Dr. Meyers-Seifer explained it to me, I was a little scared and nervous about having to use needles every day to manage my diabetes,” says Jake, now 10 years old.
Dr. Meyers-Seifer and Gaye
Madigan, clinical coordinator of
Pediatric Diabetes and Endocrinology at Jersey Shore, monitored Jake closely for a few days and educated his parents about Jake’s diabetes before releasing him. “Unique things happen when children and families come in to see us here at K. Hovnanian. We enter their lives, learn everything about them, then turn their goals into our goals,” Gaye says.
Successfully Forging a New Path
Jake and his family’s lives were immediately changed after his diagnosis, as they now constantly manage his blood glucose levels to keep him healthy. “Diabetes greatly affects a family,” says
Dr. Meyers-Seifer. “The Walshes’
Cynthia H. Meyers-Seifer, M.D.
Board certified in Pediatrics and Pediatric Endocrinology
Neptune • 732-776-4860 support has been essential to Jake’s success.” Jake checks in with his mom every few hours to review his levels and discuss what he needs to do to balance them. He also visits Dr. Meyers-Seifer and
Gaye Madigan frequently. “Gaye is a rock for Jake. She makes him feel comfortable about coming to the office every three months,” Victoria says.
Now Jake is a huge advocate for type 1 diabetes patients. He worked with his school to help raise approximately $11,000 for the Juvenile
Diabetes Research Foundation Kids
Walk, a Monmouth County record.
“It’s great to see Jake manage his diabetes so well, but to see him speak about it and help people while excelling in his activities, it’s just tremendous,” Gaye says.
By Travis Taylor
The Endocrinology division at K. Hovnanian Children’s
Hospital provides care for children with a variety of endocrine disorders, including diabetes. Go to
KHovnanianChildrensHospital.com
to learn more.
17

The Riverview team is honored that the
Saker family is helping Riverview Medical
Center grow to meet the community’s changing needs.
18
Riverview Medical Center has a distinguished history as a leader in surgical excellence. As the hospital’s reputation has grown, surgical volume has increased 20 percent in just three years. To meet the growing needs of the community, Riverview needed to expand its capabilities. That’s where the Life.Changing campaign for
Surgical Excellence at Riverview came in.
Richard Saker, president and
CEO of Saker Holdings Corporation and Saker ShopRites, who donated
$1 million to the Life.Changing campaign, jumped at the chance to support Riverview Medical Center’s future growth.
“My wife, Laura, and I have always had a deep affection for Riverview,
To learn how you can support Riverview
Medical Center, please contact Jennifer Smith at
732-751-5115.
where our children were born and where our family members and many of our Saker ShopRites associates have always been well cared for,”
Mr. Saker says. “The Saker family is extremely proud and honored to be a part of this project.”
An Investment in the Future
A key focus of the Life.Changing campaign was the construction of a new surgical center, which is now open to the community and poised to make a valuable impact on the lives of countless area residents.
“We feel it’s important to support the community we call home,” Mr.
Saker said. “When we heard about the new center being built, we wanted to do what we could to help make it happen.”
With the new center, Riverview can now handle up to 445 new surgical cases per year, which means more patients are receiving advanced surgical procedures close to home without having to travel to New York
City or elsewhere.
A Cause Close to Their Hearts
It was their personal connection with
Riverview and a deep dedication to philanthropy that inspired the Sakers to give their generous donation.
“My father was a patient at the
Meridian Rehabilitation Center in
Shrewsbury, and he believed that one of the main qualities that distinguished Meridian was the dedication and hard work of its caring staff,” Mr. Saker says. “My dad said it was obvious that the nurses and staff genuinely loved their work, and they also loved him. When Dad passed away last September, they all came and wept at his bedside.”
In addition, Mr. Saker serves as a board member at Riverview and says he has witnessed fi rsthand the valuable work it does throughout the community. “I truly believe that they have dramatically improved and saved the health care system in central Jersey,” Mr. Saker says.
“I cannot think of any charitable institution more worthy of the support of the Saker family.”

David Katz, a busy 55-year-old dad living in Howell, always enjoyed an active lifestyle. He and his wife,
Rosalyn, took their kids on ski vacations in the winter, and enjoyed reading mystery novels during long summer days at the beach. Dinners at home were fun-fi lled, as David often surprised his family with creative twists on old recipes.
But David’s life grew more complicated in 2000 when he was diagnosed with a serious kidney condition called polycystic kidney disease. By 2008, David’s health had deteriorated, and he needed to start dialysis because his kidneys had failed.
A Complex Case
Adding to his health complications, a blood test in March 2012 revealed that David had an elevated level of prostate-specifi c antigen (PSA) in his blood, which is a screening test for prostate cancer. He was faced with yet another setback when tests confi rmed he had prostate cancer.
“I was in a lot of pain already from the kidney disease, but I had hopes that I would receive a new kidney at some point,” David says. “The prostate cancer was another roadblock to helping me get healthy again.”
“The prostate is a gland in the male reproductive system, and prostate cancer is most often found during screening with PSA testing,” says
Michael Lasser, M.D., medical director of the Center for Robotic Surgery at
Jersey Shore University Medical Center and part of Meridian Cancer Care. “It is estimated that one in six men will get prostate cancer during his lifetime. But it is potentially curable through a number of treatment options. Robotic surgery is one of these treatment options that as Mr. Katz’s case demonstrates, can be tolerated quite well.”
Dr. Lasser explained to David that robotic surgery to remove the prostate was an alternative to undergoing radiation or hormone therapy. “That was very important to me because I was worried about weakening my immune system, which was already compromised by kidney disease,” David says.
The Road to Health
On September 24, 2012, Dr. Lasser performed a robotic prostatectomy to remove the cancerous tissue. “Robotic prostatectomy — a minimally invasive procedure — was a great option for David.
We were able to remove the prostate
Michael Lasser, M.D.
Neptune • 732-775-8444 cancer, preserve his urinary and sexual functions, and test the lymph nodes.
He recovered well and was able to quickly return to his normal activities and family life,” Dr. Lasser says.
The surgery went so smoothly,
David returned home within a few days. “After the procedure, I didn’t need any pain medications except for
Tylenol,” David says. “And as a result of the successful procedure with Dr. Lasser,
I am eligible to be reinstated on the kidney transplant list.”
Today, David’s prognosis is excellent.
“We successfully removed the cancer and his sexual and urinary health is intact. Being healthy will help David better manage his kidney disease and, ultimately, his future,” says Dr. Lasser.
“I am so grateful to Dr. Lasser. I have endured many health challenges, but thanks to the miracle of robotic surgery, I don’t have to worry about prostate cancer,” David says.
By Maureen Gillespie
Howell resident David Katz likes cooking and creating unique dishes without using recipes. The
55-year-old also enjoys reading mystery and sci-fi novels.
With robotic-assisted surgery, you can have major surgery with only a few tiny incisions and benefi t from easier and faster recovery times. Learn all the advantages of robotic surgery and meet our doctors by visiting NJRoboticSurgery.com.
19

Ken Peace and his wife, Sheila, walk dogs along the waterside in Keyport.
The Hazlet couple also enjoys listening to live music.
20
Ken Peace, 68, woke up one morning with a swollen knee. The swelling quickly spread down his leg to his ankle. Ken visited his doctor, who prescribed medication for gout.
The drugs didn’t help. His condition continued to get worse and within days his leg became red and painful.
“My leg felt like it would explode,” recalls Ken, a veteran during the
Vietnam era. “I have a very high pain tolerance, and on a scale between one and 10, my pain level had hit a 12.”
As the swelling began creeping up toward his thigh, Ken went to the
Emergency Department at Bayshore
Community Hospital and was quickly admitted. Franklin Hernando, M.D., a general surgeon affi liated with
Bayshore’s Center for Wound Healing, examined Ken and immediately diagnosed him with necrotizing fasciitis — a rare but extremely serious infection caused by bacteria.
“Time was of the essence. Without immediate treatment, Ken was at risk for losing his limb or even his life,”
Dr. Hernando explains. “These types of infections can lead to multiple organ failure, which is life threatening.”
Franklin P. Hernando, M.D.
Hazlet • 732-264-7171
As soon as possible, Dr. Hernando performed surgery on Ken, making multiple incisions in his leg to aggressively drain the fl uid buildup and relieve the pressure. Ken spent
10 days at Bayshore under the care of
Bayshore’s wound specialists before returning home.
Ken visited Bayshore’s Center for Wound Healing weekly to have his incisions cleaned, checked, and rewrapped. As his wounds healed,
Ken also received help from Meridian
Home Care nurses, who provided care for his incision. Within six weeks, Ken was almost completely healed.
“I’ve taken it easy through my recovery to let my leg heal, but I’ll soon be back to bowling and other activities,” Ken says. “I’m so thankful for the quick care of my doctors. As soon as Dr. Hernando saw my leg, he knew exactly what the problem was and what to do. If I had waited another day, I’m not sure what would have happened.”
The Center for Wound Healing at
Bayshore recently moved to a new facility to better meet the needs of the community. The new center is located just down the street from the hospital in a larger and modern environment that provides patients with the comfort and privacy of a standalone facility but still offers access to additional hospital services.
With HBO, patients breathe 100 percent oxygen inside a pressurized chamber. This increases the amount of oxygen in the blood so damaged tissue is nourished and can repair itself. HBO is an effective, supplemental treatment option for many types of chronic, nonhealing wounds.
“It’s extremely important to take nonhealing wounds seriously. If wounds are left untreated, they can lead to significant, life-changing complications,” Dr. Hernando says.
“At the Center for Wound Healing, we are pleased to offer expert therapies in this new facility.”
Discover the new Center for Wound Healing! Visit www.BayshoreHospital.org/Wound to take a virtual tour and meet our expert wound specialists.

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 confi rm.
Enjoy an afternoon of your favorite live jazz and swing music, a brunch buffet, dance instructions from local studio experts, and more exciting activities that are sure to keep you moving! Information will be available about the extensive services the Total Joint Replacement Center at Ocean Medical Center has to offer.
November 25, 11:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Ocean Medical Center
Conference Rooms B & C
Vision is more than being able to see: It can also be defi ned as the act or power of anticipating that which will or may come to be.
For so many of us, whether we have been affected by impairment, circumstance, or a natural disaster like Superstorm Sandy, it is diffi cult to see beyond our current obstacles and fi nd the joy in what is to come.
Enter Gail McWilliams, an inspiring and motivating professional speaker who uses humor, sheer joy, and her own personal experience with vision impairment to help others see beyond their current obstacles and challenges. Her talk, which is infused with threads of hope, vision and passion for life, will inspire all participants to view life as a gift that is full of possibility.
This unique event is part of Bayshore Community Hospital’s
Vassar Vision Awareness Day and for any community member who needs some encouragement to see beyond today.
Featuring a resource fair that will include the New Jersey Blind
Citizens Association, the Lions Club, and other organizations. The
Lions Club will be collecting used glasses for its Recycle for Sight program.
Registration required. Lunch will be served.
November 20, 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Robert B. Meyner Reception Center at the PNC Arts Center
Exit 116 Garden State Parkway, Holmdel
11:00 a.m. Check-in and Resource Fair
11:30 – 1:00 p.m. Lunch and Inspirational Message
1:00 – 2:00 p.m. Book Signing and Resource Fair
Meridian Health and the Alzheimer’s
Foundation of America are joining forces to offer memory screenings and lectures during National Memory Screening Day. If you or a loved one is experiencing increased forgetfulness, trouble concentrating, performing familiar tasks, or recalling familiar words, you may benefi t from a memory screening. Registration is required.
November 19, 9:00 a.m. – noon
Middletown Public Library
55 New Monmouth Road
LECTURE:
SPEAKER:
9:00 a.m.
SCREENINGS: 9:30 a.m.
Stephen Swartz, M.D.
November 19, 9:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Ocean County Library – Stafford Branch
129 N. Main St., Manahawkin
LECTURE: 9:30 a.m.
SCREENINGS:
SPEAKER:
10:00 a.m.
Robert Terranova, D.O.
November 19, 1:00 – 4:30 p.m.
Ocean County Library – Manchester Branch
21 Colonial Drive, Manchester
LECTURE:
SPEAKER:
1:00 p.m.
SCREENINGS: 1:30 p.m.
Cynthia Genovese, M.D.
November 19, 12:30 - 4:00 p.m.
Neptune Library
25 Neptune Blvd.
LECTURE: 12:30 p.m.
SCREENINGS:
SPEAKER:
1:00 p.m.
Richard Rhee, M.D.
CALL 1-800-DOCTORS OR 1-800-560-9990 TO REGISTER FOR PROGRAMS.
21

Meridian Community Health Programs
Call 1-800-DOCTORS or 1-800-560-9990 to register for programs.
22
MERIDIAN CANCER CARE
Genetics counselor Angela Musial-
Fay will discuss which cancers are attributed to genetics and who should be screened.
November 11, 11:00 a.m. – noon
Jersey Shore University Medical Center
Lance Auditorium
Hypnotherapy is effective in alleviating unwanted habits and developing positive behaviors and lifestyle changes.
The fee is $30.
November 11 and December 9
7:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Meridian Fitness and Wellness Center at Hazlet
November 13, 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Family Resource Center at the Ocean
Club, Stafford Township
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.
November 11, 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Bayshore Community Hospital
Infusion Suite, Fourth Floor
November 25, 1:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Southern Ocean Center for Health
Little Egg Harbor
December 9, 1:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Ocean Medical Center
East Wing, Conference Room B
Learn the risk factors and how early detection can save your life. Free colonrectal screening kits will be provided.
November 21, 11:00 a.m. – noon
Family Resource Center at the
Ocean Club, Stafford Township
Meridian Cancer Care offers art therapy for children ages 4½ to 13 who have experienced a loss or are dealing with a chronically or terminally ill loved one.
Registration required. Call 732-530-2382 .
Meridian Cancer Care has partnered with the Cancer Support
Community to provide a series of community educational programs.
Join Douglas Miller, M.D., as he discusses the latest information on treatments, side effects management, and improving quality of life during and after diagnosis of lung cancer.
Light refreshments will be provided.
November 21, 2:00 – 3:30 p.m.
Ocean Medical Center, Two River
Conference Suite
This educational program is designed for anyone who has received a cancer diagnosis. Discussions will include current innovations in the newest cancer therapies available, clinical trials, and information on the emotional and psychological impact of cancer. A light dinner will be provided. Registration required.
November 12, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Riverview Medical Center, Two River
Conference Suite
MERIDIAN
CARDIOVASCULAR
NETWORK
❤
Join Shaddy Younan, M.D., as he discusses the latest in heart health while enjoying tea and heart-healthy delights!
Registration required.
December 4, 2:00 – 3:30 p.m.
Middletown Public Library
55 New Monmouth Road
MENDED HEARTS SUPPORT
GROUP – SEE PAGE 26 FOR
DATES AND TIMES.
Learn your risk for heart attack and stroke. This vascular screening includes carotid artery ultrasound screening, heart rhythm (atrial fi brillation) screening, blood pressure, abdominal aortic aneurysm screening, peripheral artery disease
(PAD) screening, and body mass index. Participants receive an instant color report of the fi ndings, educational material, and private consultation with a registered nurse.
Fee: $74.95. Registration required.
November 5, 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Family Resource Center at the
Ocean Club, Stafford Township
November 12, 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. and December 17, 9:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Ocean Medical Center
East Wing, Conference Room A
November 26, 9:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. and December 16, 1:30 – 7:00 p.m.
Jersey Shore University
Medical Center
Brennan Rooms 104/105
December 2, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Southern Ocean Center for Health
279 Mathistown Road
Little Egg Harbor
December 10, 1:30 – 7:00 p.m.
Riverview Medical Center
Two River Conference Suite
Anthony DeNoia, M.D., will discuss what your cholesterol numbers mean and what you can do to improve them.
November 12, 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Meridian Fitness and Wellness
Center at Hazlet

Meridian Community Health Programs
Call 1-800-DOCTORS or 1-800-560-9990 to register for programs.
Learn the signs, symptoms, causes, and treatments for high blood pressure and what affect it will have on you.
November 13, 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Family Resource Center at the Ocean
Club, Stafford Township
SPEAKER: Joseph Schirripa, M.D.
December 17, 11:00 a.m. – noon
Meridian Fitness and Wellness Center at Hazlet
SPEAKER: Ammar Bazerbashi, M.D.
Learn the signs and symptoms of heart disease, diagnostic testing, and the importance of early intervention.
November 13, 11:00 a.m. – noon
Meridian Fitness and Wellness Center at Hazlet
SPEAKER: Monica Bais, M.D.
December 5, 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Jersey Shore University Medical Center
Brennan Rooms 104/105
SPEAKER: Brett Sealove, M.D.
Join Jeffrey Hager, D.O., as he discusses cardiovascular disease risk factors and treatment options. Learn about vascular screenings and the importance of identifying cardiovascular disease before symptoms occur. A light breakfast will be served.
November 20, 9:00 – 11:30 a.m.
Family Resource Center at the Ocean
Club, Stafford Township
Girija Surya, M.D., will discuss the link between diabetes and circulation in your legs. Learn about symptoms, treatment, and common circulation problems.
November 26, 11:00 a.m. – noon
Meridian Fitness and Wellness Center at Hazlet
Learn the signs and symptoms of congestive heart failure and the treatment options to continue living a heart-healthy life.
November 6, 2:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Jersey Shore University Medical Center
Brennan Rooms 104/105
MERIDIAN NEUROSCIENCE
Learn the signs and symptoms, risk factors, and what you should do if someone is having a stroke.
November 19, 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Jersey Shore University Medical Center
Brennan Rooms 104/105
SPEAKER: Jackie Dwyer, R.N.
November 22, 11:00 a.m. – noon
Family Resource Center at the
Ocean Club, Stafford Township
SPEAKER: Tommasina Papa-Ruggino, M.D.
Sam Bebawy, M.D., will discuss what you can do to get a good night’s sleep, as well as diagnosis and treatment options.
December 3, 11:00 a.m. – noon
Meridian Fitness and Wellness Center at Hazlet
Paul Kostoulakos, M.D., will discuss the early warning signs and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.
December 4, 11:00 a.m. – noon
Ocean Medical Center, East Wing
Conference Room C
Learn the causes of balance issues and solutions. Screening to follow the lecture.
December 10, 11:00 a.m. – noon
Meridian Fitness and Wellness Center at Hazlet
Designed and administered by physical therapists and exercise specialists, this program helps people with Parkinson’s improve their fl exibility, balance, and strength, enabling them to perform everyday activities with greater ease. For pricing and registration, call 732-836-4007 .
If you’ve suffered from a head injury or stroke and already completed speech therapy, this class may be for you.
Continue to work on your communication skills in this program, which is held once a month for six months. For pricing and registration, call 732-836-4007 .
MERIDIAN PEDIATRIC
NETWORK
Sponsored by the New Jersey State
Police and the Trauma Center at Jersey
Shore University Medical Center. No registration necessary.
First Tuesday of each month
3:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Jersey Shore University Medical Center
Meridian offers babysitting training for boys and girls ages 11 to 14. In the context of a fun learning environment, this class reviews safety for both the babysitters and children left in their care. The class includes handling emergencies, fi rst aid, and CPR. The fee is $40.
November 16, 9:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Family Resource Center at the Ocean
Club, Stafford Township
November 23, 9:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Red Bank First Aid Building
December 27, 9:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Meridian Fitness and Wellness Center at Hazlet
December 30, 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Academy of Allied Health and Science
2325 Heck Ave., Neptune
CHILDBIRTH/MATERNITY
Meridian Health offers classes and seminars for fi rst-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
.
Classes focus on gentle postures, breathing techniques, and overall relaxation to prepare for childbirth or recover after childbirth. Call Meridian
Life Fitness in Point Pleasant at
732-295-1778 for fees and to register.
23

Meridian Community Health Programs
Call 1-800-DOCTORS or 1-800-560-9990 to register for programs.
COUNSELING AND
BEHAVIORAL HEALTH
For adult family members of addicted individuals. Call for information.
Meridian Behavioral Health offers a variety of counseling services at both our Neptune and Shrewsbury locations. We offer age-specifi c 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.
DIABETES
Certifi ed diabetes educator Marina
Rabkin, R.D., will provide the latest information on diabetes, including risk factors, treatment options, and medication information.
November 7, 11:00 a.m. – noon
Meridian Fitness and Wellness Center at Hazlet
Individual or group educational programs. For more information, registration, and fees 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 .
Whether you have diabetes or know someone who does, these events might be for you. Experts in diabetes management and nutrition will be available for consultation. Screenings for cholesterol, blood sugar, and blood pressure will be offered. Vendors will be present with the latest information and technologies. Registration is required.
November 4, 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Riverview Medical Center
Two River Conference Suite
SPEAKER: Marianna Antonopoulou, M.D.
Light lunch will be provided.
November 8, 8:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Jersey Shore University Medical Center
Lance Auditorium
Screenings will not be provided.
November 11, 10:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Bayshore Community Hospital
Conference Rooms A and B
SPEAKER: Jennifer Zaitz, D.O.
Light lunch will be provided.
November 13, 10:30 a.m. – noon
Ocean Medical Center
Conference Rooms A and B
Foot Screenings only by appointment.
Light refreshments will be provided.
November 15, 1:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Family Resource Center at the Ocean
Club, Stafford Township
Foot screenings will also be provided.
Light refreshments will be available.
FITNESS
Learn how to use balance and leverage over strength to help defend yourself. Class includes joint and balance exercises taught in a relaxed atmosphere. Fee: $3 per class.
November 7 and 21, 12:30 – 1:30 p.m. and December 5, 12:30 – 1:30 p.m.
Family Resource Center at the Ocean
Club, Stafford Township
Find out whether this specialty yoga class might be right for you.
November 12, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.
Ocean Medical Center, Community Room
Learn the benefi ts of exercise and how to make sure you are exercising correctly.
November 14, 1:00 – 2:00 p.m.
Meridian Life Fitness, Point Pleasant Beach
NUTRITION
Learn how to maintain or lose weight during the holiday season.
November 5, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.
Ocean Medical Center, Community Room
Join a Meridian registered dietician and learn how to make your holiday meal healthy without compromising taste.
November 13, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Meridian Fitness and Wellness Center at Hazlet
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 732-206-8263 , or Southern Ocean Medical Center at
609-978-3400 .
Meridian Life Fitness offers a variety of weight-loss and wellness programs to suit your lifestyle, including the ability to meet with a wellness adviser. Call
732-206-8263 for information, fees, and registration.
ORTHOPEDICS AND
SPORTS MEDICINE
Edward Allegra, M.D., will discuss diagnosis and treatment options for rheumatoid arthritis. A light breakfast will be served.
November 14, 9:00 – 10:00 a.m.
Meridian Fitness and Wellness Center at Hazlet
Learn the most common shoulder dysfunctions and ways to prevent them.
November 19, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Meridian Life Rehabilitation
Point Pleasant Beach

Meridian Community Health Programs
Call 1-800-DOCTORS or 1-800-560-9990 to register for programs.
SCREENINGS
Free blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, and bone density screenings. Call for an appointment.
November 13, 4:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Ocean Care Center
1517 Richmond Ave., Point Pleasant
(Intersection of Route 35 and 88)
Call 732-206-8263 to register.
December 4, noon – 1:00 p.m.
Ocean Medical Center
December 5, 11:00 a.m. – noon
Meridian Life Fitness, Point Pleasant Beach
Take-home screening kits will be given out at the colon-rectal lecture.
November 21, 11:00 a.m. – noon
Family Resource Center at the Ocean
Club, Stafford Township
First and third Wednesday of each month, 9:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Family Resource Center at the Ocean
Club, Stafford Township
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
Driving program for adults ages 50 and older who want to develop safe defensive driving techniques. The fee is $12 for AARP members and $14 for nonmembers. Make checks payable to
AARP. Call for dates and times.
Learn ways to prevent falls and other injuries by making changes in your home.
December 9, 11:00 a.m. – noon
Family Resource Center at the Ocean
Club, Stafford Township
The holiday season brings joy as well as added stress for caregivers. Learn skills on how to balance family, caregiving, and the holidays. A light lunch will be served. Registration required.
December 6, noon – 2:00 p.m.
Family Resource Center at the Ocean
Whether you’re new to Medicare or just interested in your options, join us at an upcoming seminar. Call
1-800-846-1583 to register.
December 11, 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Meridian Geisinger Gold Office
550 Route 530, Suite 20 Whiting
December 16, 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Meridian Geisinger Gold Office
4900 Route 33, Suite 200, Neptune
December 18, 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Family Resource Center at Ocean
Club, Stafford Township
WEIGHT-LOSS SURGERY
Seth Kipnis, M.D., medical director of the center for Weight Loss Surgery at
Jersey Shore University Medical Center discusses the benefi ts of weight-loss surgery.
November 6 and December 4
6:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Jersey Shore University Medical Center
Brennan Rooms 104/105
Join us for an informative discussion on the benefi ts and options for weight loss surgery.
November 12, 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Ocean Medical Center
Conference Room B
November 26, 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Ocean Medical Center, Community Room
December 10, 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Meridian Life Fitness and
Rehabilitation, Point Pleasant
Karl Strom, M.D., medical director of the
Bariatric Center of Excellence at Southern
Ocean Medical Center and Bayshore
Community Hospital, and surgeons
Jonathan Reich, M.D., and Silvia Fresco,
M.D., will host educational programs on the benefi ts of weight-loss surgery.
November 5 and December 10
7:00 – 8:30 p.m.
Ramada Inn
2373 Route 9, Toms River
November 12, 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.
Double Tree Hilton, 700 Hope Road
Tinton Falls
November 13 and December 11
7:00 – 8:30 p.m.
Southern Ocean Medical Center
November 14, 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.
Bayshore Community Hospital
Conference Rooms A and B
November 19, 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.
Ocean County Library-Toms River
101 Washington Street
November 20 and December 16
7:00 – 8:30 p.m.
Ocean County Library-Lacey
10 East Lacey Road, Forked River
November 21 and December 12
7:00 – 8:30 p.m.
Meridian Fitness and Wellness Center at Hazlet
December 5, 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.
Riverview Medical Center
25

Meridian Community Health Programs
Call 1-800-DOCTORS or 1-800-560-9990 to register for programs.
GENERAL WELLNESS
MERIDIAN PROGRAMS
AND SERVICES
MEDICARE GPS INFORMATION
SESSIONS – SEE PAGE 25 FOR
DATES AND TIMES.
Interested in tracing your family history?
Join us for a hands-on session in our computer learning center.
November 11, 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. and
December 9, 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Family Resource Center at the Ocean
Club, Stafford Township
Urologist Deep Trivedi, M.D., will discuss prostate health, screening guidelines, and treatment options.
November 12, 11:00 a.m. – noon
Family Resource Center at the Ocean
Club, Stafford Township
Lawrence Mueller, M.D., will discuss varicose veins, their causes, and the latest treatment options.
November 21
LECTURE: 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
SCREENINGS: 7:30 – 9:00 p.m.
Jersey Shore University Medical Center
Brennan Rooms 104/105
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
To learn more 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
.
All Meridian hospitals are American
Heart Association CPR training centers. Call for dates, times, locations, and classes.
Located at Jersey Shore University
Medical Center. Call 732-774-0151 to schedule a free, confi dential appointment.
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.
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. Call for more information, dates, and times.
FEATURED SUPPORT GROUP
MENDED HEARTS
Hear others share their experiences about what they faced, including lifestyle changes and treatment, in their recovery from heart disease.
Fourth Thursday of January, March,
May, July, September, and November at noon
Riverview Medical Center
Two River Conference Suite
Fourth Thursday of February, April,
October, and December at 6:00 p.m.
Jersey Shore University Medical Center
Brennan Rooms 104/105
Fourth Tuesday of January, March, May,
July, September, and November at 1:00 p.m.
Ocean Medical Center, Community
Room
26
Geisinger Gold is ranked one of the top 10 Medicare Advantage plans in the nation according to the National Committee for
Quality Assurance (NCQA)*
We offer several coverage options to suit your health care needs
• We offer plans that are affordable and will fi t any budget
• We have a large network of doctors and hospitals in
Monmouth and Ocean counties
Our customer service is easily accessible when you need support
T0032_13263_1 fi le and use 9/25/13

Ways
For those with damaged or diseased joints, just getting out of bed can be painful. Fortunately, there are things you can do now to protect your joints in the years to come.
1. Stay active.
Regular physical activity, such as walking, can reduce joint swelling and ease pain. Weight training can also strengthen joint-supporting muscles.
2. Lose weight.
Excess weight puts stress on your joints, particularly the knees, hips, and feet. A healthy diet can help you shed pounds and reduce wear on your joints.
3. Avoid injuries.
When possible, avoid repetitive motions. Warm up and stretch before exercising, and when playing sports, wear shoes that fi t well and the proper protective equipment.
4. Get enough sleep.
Joints need rest. By getting enough sleep, you can avoid injuries and help prevent joint pain and swelling.
5. Try physical therapy.
Swimming or water-based exercise can improve joint health while reducing pain.
6. Consult your doctor.
See your doctor if you have swelling or redness, recurring joint pain, stiffness, or limited motion. Early treatment can help prevent further damage.
Do you have joint pain that disrupts your sleep or daily activities? Have medications or other treatments not helped? It may be time to consider joint replacement.
Each year in the United
States, more than half a million people undergo knee replacements and more than 285,000 have total hip replacements.
Most candidates for joint replacement are older than age 50, but younger patients can also benefi t from the procedure.
Your Meridian Health team is committed to helping you protect your joint health. To learn more about our educational programs, go to
MeridianHealth.com/Movement.
1 tsp.
1 tsp.
1/2 cup chopped
2 cups chopped
1 tsp. dried
frozen (washed)
14.5-oz. can diced added, with liquid
,no salt
or
2 cups low-sodium
4 tbsp.
, fresh or
Heat butter and oil in a saucepan. Add onions and cook until transparent. Wash spinach, add, and stir until wilted. Add tomatoes, basil or oregano, and broth and heat through. Puree in batches in blender.
Stir in yogurt and serve. Serves four.
ONE SERVING CONTAINS
APPROXIMATELY:
Calories . . . . . . . . . 80
Fat . . . . . . . . . . . 3 g
Saturated fat . . . . . 1 g
Calories from fat . . 34%
Cholesterol . . . . . 3 mg
Sodium . . . . . .112 mg
Carbohydrates . . 10 g
Fiber . . . . . . . . . . 2 g
Protein . . . . . . . . . 5 g
Clip an d share thi s d!
27

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If you have a chronic health condition, such as diabetes, asthma, or heart disease, taking care of yourself is vitally important for both you and your little one on the way.
If you can, talk with your doctor about managing your disease before you become pregnant. Together, you can take steps to protect your baby while taking care of your health, too.
Mom’s Condition: Diabetes
Women with uncontrolled diabetes risk doing damage to their kidneys, eyes, heart, and nerves. High blood glucose levels, especially during the first few weeks of pregnancy, can also cause birth defects, including problems with your baby’s heart and brain, or result in your baby being born early or large.
“Fortunately, controlling your blood glucose reduces the risk for all of these complications — and the same steps that you used before pregnancy work now that you’re an expecting mom,” says Marilyn Loh
Collado, M.D., of Riverview Medical
Center. These include:
• Exercising.
Ask your doctor about a safe routine.
• Monitoring your blood glucose.
You may need to check it more often during pregnancy.
• Taking your medications as directed.
Sometimes your doctor will suggest switching medicines or stopping their use until your baby is born.

Alma Bustamante, M.D.
Forked River • 609-693-2900
Mom’s Condition:
Heart Disease
Better treatments mean many more women with heart defects or diseases are now healthy enough to become pregnant. “That’s good news,” says Joseph Canterino, M.D., a high-risk OB/perinatologist at
Jersey Shore University Medical
Center. “And though you may need closer monitoring, your obstetrician and cardiologist can work together closely to help you safely navigate the changes to your body during pregnancy.”
For instance, your heart can grow up to 30 percent larger when you’re pregnant. With each pump, it pushes a higher volume of blood to meet your needs and those of your baby. This strain may trigger new symptoms, especially as you enter your second and third trimester.
These can include shortness of breath and irregular heartbeats.
“Tell your doctor about any changes so you can take steps to address them,” says Dr. Canterino.
If you have a congenital heart defect, consider also visiting a genetic counselor to determine the chances of your baby having a similar health issue.
Mom’s Condition:
High Blood Pressure
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, occurs when your blood pushes against your arteries with too much force. Less blood may fl ow to your placenta. As a result, your baby may develop.
In addition, uncontrolled hypertension during pregnancy can harm your kidneys and other organs.
You also risk developing a dangerous complication called pre-eclampsia, which can damage your placenta, kidneys, liver, and brain.
“Working with your doctor to get your blood pressure under control and keep it there prevents these types of problems,” says Diane
DiTusa, D.O., of Ocean Medical
Center. Healthy steps include:
• Limiting salt and sodium in your diet
• Exercising regularly
• Maintaining a healthy weight
If you take medication to control your blood pressure, ask your doctor whether you should continue to do so while pregnant. Some drugs, such as ACE inhibitors, may cause harm to you or your baby. But other medications, including certain betablockers, may be safe for you to use.
Mom’s Condition: Asthma
Asthma is one of the most common chronic diseases that women cope with during pregnancy. If you keep your asthma under control, the chances of having problems during pregnancy remains low.
“If your asthma does fl are up, your baby may not get enough oxygen,” says Alma Bustamante, M.D., an obstetrician-gynecologist at Southern
Joseph C. Canterino, M.D.
Board certifi ed in Obstetrics-
Gynecology and Maternal-
Fetal Medicine
Neptune • 732-776-4755
Diane DiTusa, D.O.
Manasquan • 732-528-6999
Marilyn Loh Collado, M.D.
Board certifi ed in Obstetrics-
Gynecology
Tinton Falls • 732-530-5550
Ocean Medical Center. As a result, he or she may arrive early, grow slowly, or weigh too little. Health risks for you could include high blood pressure and pre-eclampsia.
About one-third of women with asthma fi nd their symptoms worsen during pregnancy. Develop an action plan with your doctor that includes:
• How to avoid allergens such as mold, animals, dust mites, and cockroaches
• What medicines to take, and when
• What to do if symptoms worsen
Talk with your allergist or immunologist about which medications are safe to take during pregnancy. In most cases, the benefi ts of controlling your symptoms outweigh any risks.
Meridian Momtourage has a full range of interactive tools to give busy women an even greater breadth of options for staying healthy, informed, and involved. Get expert advice on everything from pregnancy to cardiac care to joint health at MeridianMomtourage.com.
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It’s so important to keep fi tness fun. That may mean trying new things until you fi nd your passion. I fell in love with Latin and ballroom dancing and then found Zumba ® — a cross between Latin dance and fi tness moves. Now, as a licensed
Zumba instructor, I teach classes three times a week. When you’re having fun, it doesn’t feel like work.
I have always struggled with my weight. I believe you still have to eat the things you like, but in moderation.
Plus, exercise is very important. Being skinny doesn’t necessarily mean you are fi t. I focus on my health rather than the number on the scale. Even though
I weigh the same, I’ve lost inches. I’m now two to three sizes smaller than when I started working out.
I exercise four to fi ve days a week. It relieves stress, lifts my mood, and boosts my productivity. Because I get so much from fi tness, I’m passionate about inspiring others to do the same. My philosophy is to fi nd an exercise or activity that you love and make it a lifestyle. In addition to teaching
Zumba, I work one on one with clients as a certifi ed personal trainer and hope to begin lunchtime Zumba for my colleagues.
Share your most valuable health tip on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/
MeridianHealthNJ. As a thank-you, everyone who submits a tip will receive a FREE cookbook full of healthy recipes!
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Non-Profi t Org.
U.S. Postage
PAID
Meridian
Health
1140 Route 72 West
Manahawkin, NJ 08050
JOE COYLE
President
William Black is living a happy, pain-free life thanks to successful ankle surgery.
READ HIS STORY
ON PAGE 10.
1945 Route 33
Neptune, NJ 07753
STEVEN G. LITTLESON, FACHE
President
1945 Route 33
Neptune, NJ 07753
STEVEN G. LITTLESON, FACHE
President
425 Jack Martin Blvd.
Brick, NJ 08724
DEAN Q. LIN, MHA, MBA, FACHE
President
One Riverview Plaza
Red Bank, NJ 07701
TIMOTHY J. HOGAN, FACHE
Regional President
727 North Beers Street
Holmdel, NJ 07733
TIMOTHY J. HOGAN, FACHE
Regional President
Printed on Recyclable Paper 6116D
SouthernOceanMedicalCenter.com
Over the past few years, I’ve had the opportunity to share many exciting aspects of our growth here at Southern Ocean Medical Center. We’ve added services and physicians in neuroscience, cardiovascular services, oncology services, orthopedics, general surgery, bariatrics, pediatrics, and women’s services, to name a few.
Most recently, I was proud to share the news about the completion of our new, expanded Emergency Department.
Now, I am pleased to tell you about one of our newest innovations. As part of our goal to engage the next generation of primary care physicians to care for our community, this past year we welcomed 12 bright and enthusiastic medical students as part of a new teaching relationship with the Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine.
The third year medical school students embarked on rotations that took them out of the classroom and lab and into real clinical settings. Medical students are required to complete four years of medical school, and then three years of residency prior to being licensed. Their fi rst two years of medical school focus on classroom and lab studies. During their third and fourth years, they participate in rotations to gain exposure and experience in multiple areas of specialization.
Collaborating with a medical school is a win-win situation. The students bring things back to basics, asking a lot of questions and engaging the physicians and nurses in interactive dialogue. We are very excited about this affi liation and I feel it will have a very positive impact on our hospital and our community.
As we continue our dynamic journey here at Southern
Ocean, I want to thank you for your continued support.
You are the reason our team works so hard to continue to grow so we can provide you and your family the very best health care.
To your health,
Joe Coyle