Relief for Women Pelvic Prolapse Relief for Women Suffering ... - GBMC

A gBMc PuBlIcATIon FoR ouR coMMunITy

Relief for Women Suffering with Pelvic Prolapse In My Words: Family “Breathes Easy” After Asthma and Allergy Treatment A Sight for Sore Eyes: Doctors Treat Boy for Traumatic Eye Injury

SPRIng 2011

content

SPRIng 2011

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In My WoRDS

3 The Sound of Success:

Family “Breathes Easy” After Asthma and Allergy Treatment

Cochlear Implants Restore a Young Patient’s Hearing

7 GBMC News Briefs 8 A Sight for Sore Eyes: Doctors Treat Boy for Traumatic Eye Injury

FEATURE

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9 Living Healthy, Living Well

REgARDIng WoMEn

Relief for Women Suffering with Pelvic Prolapse

Lather Up! Simple Steps to Flu Prevention; GBMC will present “Time for Me!” again in the Spring; Ladies – Know Your Stroke Risk

10 Speech Therapy Across Borders: GBMC Uses Web Conferencing to Provide Speech Therapy In Nicaragua

11 Calendar of Events 12 GBMC Foundation

Read and comment on the official GBMC blog at http://ahealthydialogue.blogspot.com/

2 GREATER living |

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Cochlear Implant Center

ThE SouND oF SuCCESS:

Cochlear Implants Restore a Young Patient’s hearing

I

n July 2010, Jasmine and Khary Thomas’s 13-month-old daughter, Kharmin, was still recovering from a severe case of bacterial

meningitis when her family received troubling news. Although the toddler was healing from her illness, she had suffered profound hearing loss in both of her ears… and it was only getting worse. “In rare cases of bacterial meningitis, the cochlea — a part of the inner ear that transforms sound into nerve impulses, which then travel to the brain — may begin to ossify, or turn to bone,” says Brian Kaplan, MD, Chairman, Department of Otolaryngology/ Head and Neck Surgery, the surgeon who treated Kharmin. “This happens as a result of the body fighting off the infection. Once the cochlea begins to ossify, it may lead to a permanent hearing loss which cannot be treated by a cochlear implant.” The Thomases soon found themselves at GBMC’s Cochlear Implant Center, where Kharmin was examined and quickly cleared for surgery to implant two devices, called cochlear implants, that would restore her hearing before it was too late. The devices consist of: >

a speech processor with dual microphones, worn behind the ear to pick up sound

>

a small device placed under the skin near the ear, with electrodes inserted in the cochlea

The speech processor collects sound from the microphone, converts it to information and sends it to the cochlear implant. The implant device tells nerves in the ear to send a message to the brain and the message is understood as sound. Typically, the devices are implanted in two separate surgeries, but in Kharmin’s case,

there was no time to wait. After nearly six hours, Dr. Kaplan successfully placed cochlear implants in both ears during one surgery,

Kharmin Thomas plays drums from the lap of her mother, Jasmine, during a therapy session at GBMC’s Cochlear Implant Center.

a first at GBMC. “Hearing loss is a new experience for us,” says Jasmine Thomas. “But, with the help of Kharmin’s caregivers, we continue learning about her condition and how we can support her. ” Once she recovered from the surgery, Kharmin’s cochlear implants were activated. With her hearing restored, she now receives aural rehabilitation therapy from the specially trained staff at the Cochlear Implant Center. Through therapy, she is learning that sound has meaning, how to properly identify sounds and how to develop her speech and language skills, just like her peers. “We never imagined something like this could happen to our family,” says Mrs. Thomas. “But everyone at GBMC has been helpful and patient, which gives us hope

Watch Kharmin’s story in the Video Library at www.gbmc.org. For more information on the Cochlear Implant Center, call 443-849-GBMC (4262) or log on to the website.

for Kharmin’s future.” www.gbmc.org | GREATER living 3

regarding women

Relief for Women Suffering with Pelvic Prolapse

hen Joan Sheedy, 62, of hampstead, began experiencing pressure and pain while using the bathroom, she knew something wasn’t right.

W

“It was an awful thing to have to go through,” says Mrs. Sheedy. “You find yourself trying to avoid going to the restroom because of the discomfort and embarrassment.” Her pain led her to R. Mark Ellerkmann, MD, Chief of the Division of Urogynecology and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery at GBMC, who was able to offer relief. He diagnosed Mrs. Sheedy with vaginal prolapse, a condition where the muscles of the pelvic floor weaken and structures like the uterus, bowel and bladder begin to fall out of the vagina. A number of factors contribute to prolapse. “Risk factors for women include vaginal childbirth, infant weight, occupations involving heavy lifting and repetitive strain on the pelvic floor, connective tissue disorders and genetics,” explains Dr. Ellerkmann. Vaginal prolapse is most commonly seen in women over the age of 40 and often begins with a variety of symptoms, such as: > > > > > > > Patient Joan Sheedy talks with Dr. Ellerkmann at one of her post-operative appointments.

4 GREATER living |

>

Pelvic pressure and pain Vaginal fullness Urinary frequency and urgency Lower back pain Painful intercourse Defecatory dysfunction Stress urinary incontinence Sensation of incomplete bladder emptying

bladder or while voiding

To correct her prolapse, Mrs. Sheedy underwent a laparoscopic abdominal

can ultimately lead to poor

sacralcolpopexy, a surgery assisted by the

voiding practices. Once the muscles are located,

Alternatives to Surgery

During this procedure, the vagina is placed

contract them for five seconds, then

in its correct anatomical position and

relax for five seconds. Do three sets

synthetic mesh is attached to the prolapsed

of 10 repetitions daily.

While Joan Sheedy’s condition required surgical intervention, Dr. Ellerkmann notes that there are a number of nonsurgical options that may be used to treat pelvic floor disorders in certain instances, including:

da Vinci® robotic system in October 2010.

vagina and supported using the sacrum

•

“Women often don’t seek treatment

(tailbone). Because the surgery is performed

for pelvic floor issues because they are

laparoscopically, through small incisions

embarrassed to bring up the topic with

“Don’t avoid talking to your doctor because you’re scared or embarrassed. You shouldn’t have to be miserable with a condition that can be fixed.” — Joan Sheedy

as opposed to traditional large abdominal

their physician,” says Dr. Ellerkmann. “Many

incisions, recovery is quicker and patients

women also have the perception that

experience less pain.

nothing can be done to address their

“My recovery went better than I’d

problem or that treatments either don’t

expected,” says Mrs. Sheedy. “I was back on

work or are associated with too

my feet cooking and taking care of my

many complications.”

family in less than two weeks. I had very

Mrs. Sheedy urges women who are

little pain and took few pain relievers.

suffering from prolapse to seek help.

The only real restriction I had was no heavy

“Don’t avoid talking to your doctor because

lifting for a few weeks.”

you’re scared or embarrassed,” she says.

There are ways that women can work on strengthening their pelvic floor

• Biofeedback This therapy teaches women to perform Kegel exercises using the correct muscles. Electrical impulses monitor which muscles are being used and prompt the patient to contract the correct muscle group. • Pelvic Floor Stimulation An electrode is attached near the muscles and sends small amounts of electrical stimulation to the muscles and nerves, causing them to contract and strengthen over time. • Medication Therapy Women experiencing urge incontinence may benefit from prescription medications. • Injection Therapy A bulking material is injected into the tissue surrounding the urethra to treat stress incontinence.

“You shouldn’t have to be miserable with a condition that can be fixed.”

muscles. Kegel exercises are shown to help strengthen muscles and can be done discreetly almost anywhere. •

To locate the correct muscles in the pelvis, simply start and stop the flow of urine. Don’t make this a habit, however. Doing Kegel exercises on a full

Watch Dr. Ellerkmann discuss approaches to Urogynecology in the Video Library at www.gbmc.org. For additional information on urogynecology at GBMC, call 443-849-GBMC (4262) or log on to the website.

www.gbmc.org | GREATER living

in my words

Family “Breathes Easy” After Asthma and Allergy Treatment JENNIFER DECKER watched as severe asthma and allergies controlled her children’s lives. This is her story, in her own words.

M

y husband Alan and I used to live in constant worry about our children, who both have severe

asthma and allergies. Our 10-year-old son, Ben, used to get sick constantly. Sometimes his coughing and difficulty breathing got so bad that it would cause his sternum to go completely concave. Our 6-year-old daughter, Morgan, had difficulty keeping up with friends in dance class. Until recently, it was a given that we’d have to take both kids to the emergency room every fall and winter. But nothing was more terrifying than the day Ben collapsed in gym class. He was attempting to run a mile with the rest of the kids when he couldn’t catch his breath anymore and collapsed. Our pediatrician referred us to Dr. Alvin Sanico and the Asthma Sinus Allergy Program (ASAP) at GBMC. The children and I receive treatments and allergy injections through ASAP, and the turnaround has been incredible. Since we first walked through the doors in January 2009 Ben got his first “Outstanding” grade Ten-year-old patient Ben Decker gets an allergy shot during a routine visit to ASAP. His sister, Morgan, and mother, Jennifer, wait their turns in the background.

in gym class and has also earned his black belt in karate. Morgan can now participate in her dance classes without getting short of breath. While the regimen for allergy injections is a time commitment, at first requiring us to visit the office a couple times a week, the staff at ASAP works hard to make the process easy. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, they are open late to accommodate patients like us who work or have school. Normally,

For information about GBMC’s Asthma Sinus Allergy Program (ASAP), please visit www.gbmc.org or call 443-849-GBMC (4262).

we go straight there once the kids get out of school, and they are able to do their homework while we wait for our appointments. The patience of the staff has been such a comfort to us. Not everyone understands how allergies and asthma work, but Dr. Sanico’s group took the time to listen to each of us individually and come up with a plan to help keep our symptoms at bay. ASAP has freed us from our constant worry. Allergies and asthma won’t control our lives anymore.

After receiving his shot, Ben gets examined by Dr. Alvin Sanico.

GREATER living |

news briefs

Born Free at GBMC GBMC’s Parent Education Department is now offering a class on medicationfree childbirth for expectant parents. The “Born Free” class educates parents

GBMC Makes Strides to Improve Quality, Efficiency

on comfort techniques, such as massage and breathing techniques, and the use of birthing tools, such as birth balls, as an alternative to medication.

In anticipation of healthcare reform, GBMC is taking steps to ensure that

“Our goal is to help parents who are interested in experiencing a

physicians are able to coordinate high

medication-free delivery feel confident in their support team and to arm them with the knowledge to achieve their goal,” says Lanny Dowell,

quality care in the most efficient way possible. To help with the process, Greater

Parent Education and Doula Coordinator. “We hope to empower more

Baltimore Medical Associates (GBMA) has

parents, not only with the idea of non-medicated birth, but with the

launched a new practice management

confidence to at least attempt it.”

program that will lay the groundwork for an Electronic Medical Record (EMR) system. With EMR, patients’ medical histories

For more information on the Born Free and other childbirth classes, visit www.gbmc.org or call 443-849-6287.

will be entered and stored electronically and will be accessible by each physician or specialist a patient must see. This will greatly improve communication between doctors as well as enhance patient safety and promote wellness. During the transi-

The Boutique

tion, patients may be asked to complete

Helping women look good and feel great about themselves

medical history and other forms to ensure

Sometimes it’s the small things that can

electronic medical record.

the most current information is in your Look for additional communication

make women feel better… a touch of blush on the cheeks, a great hairstyle and

over the coming months. GBMC appreciates

a little extra pampering.

your patience during this transition and

That’s just what they’ll find at GBMC’s Boutique, which focuses on the special needs of women with cancer, alopecia and skin conditions resulting from scars, burns or laser

and waxing. hours of operation: Monday - Friday:

fittings, scarves and hats for hair loss, breast

8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Gift certificates are

fittings (bras and prosthetics) and overall

available. All services are by appointment

image consultation.

only. Call 443-849-8700 or e-mail

emphasis on helping patients look good and

loved ones.

shampoos, haircuts, styling, manicures

treatments. The Boutique offers wigs and wig

Cosmetologist Linda Kurgan puts great

looks forward to caring for you and your

feel well. Other services provided include

Lynne Caddick, Boutique Manager, at [email protected].

Don’t Miss out! Sign up for GBMC’s new e-newsletter,

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Present this coupon when shopping at The Boutique and save 20% off the purchase of one item, including wigs, bras, prosthetics, turbans, sleep caps and any services.

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ophthalmology

A SIGhT FoR SoRE EYES:

Doctors Treat Boy for Traumatic Eye Injury

A

golf ball was all it took to send fiveyear-old Luke Rossi of Perry Hall to

GBMC, where doctors were credited for saving his sight. Eye injuries are the leading cause of blindness in school-aged children, according to the National Eye Institute. Most of those injuries are sports-related: every 13 minutes, an emergency room in the United States treats a sports-related eye injury. Luke and his older brother were playing with their father’s golf clubs, normally kept out of reach, when his brother accidentally hit him directly in the eye with a golf ball. The Rossis rushed Luke to the GBMC Emergency Department, where doctors quickly diagnosed him with a hyphema, blood in the front of the eye area often caused by trauma. After being treated for fractured orbital bones and an eyelid laceration, Luke was referred to Allison Jensen, MD, a pediatric ophthalmology specialist at GBMC, for follow-up care. “If not treated properly, a hyphema can lead

Luke has completed his acute care with Dr. Jensen and is now seen just once a year.

to a secondary bleed,” says Dr. Jensen. “This

Though his injury was successfully treated,

could lead to glaucoma, cataract or permanent

he will always be at a higher risk for glaucoma.

loss of vision. Injuries that cause blood vessels

“The eye is an incredibly sensitive organ,” says

to bleed into the eye can be missed if a patient

Dr. Jensen. “Blunt trauma can be a serious

is not examined by an ophthalmologist.”

injury, causing damage to not only the eye

While treating Luke for his traumatic eye

itself, but also to eye muscles and the orbital

injuries, Dr. Jensen also discovered he had

bone, often requiring surgery. It’s important

amblyopia, also known as a lazy eye, due to an

that parents and caregivers educate their

asymmetry in his hyperopia (farsightedness)

children on eye safety.”

and required glasses.

Mrs. Rossi hopes that sharing her son’s story

Above: Luke Rossi, pictured with his brother, Alex, keeps a smile on his face as he recovers from a traumatic eye injury.

helps other parents to protect their children from eye injuries. “Luke’s accident has made me more sensitive to risk factors in daily life pertaining to eyes,” she says. “I find myself

For additional information on ophthalmology at GBMC, visit www.gbmc.org or call 443-849-GBMC (4262).

8 GREATER living |

taking more precautions now, for Luke and the rest of our family, too.”

Inset: Dr. Allison Jensen, pediatric ophthalmology specialist at GBMC, uses a Sesame Street toy to work with a young patient.

living healthy, living well

Lather up! Simple Steps to Flu Prevention Flu season is once again in full swing. Fortunately, one of the most effective preventative tools can be found right at the bathroom or kitchen sink. The powers of hand washing are often overlooked, but according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), proper hand hygiene is one of the best ways to steer clear of infection and illness.

GBMC will present

“Time for Me!” again in the Spring!

use the following guidelines to help combat illness this flu season: >

Wash hands often!

>

Wet hands with warm water, then apply soap.

>

Lather up, scrubbing all surfaces (including under fingernails).

>

Wash for 20 seconds, then rinse; to help kids remember, tell them

Monday, April 4, 2011

to sing “Happy Birthday” twice before rinsing.

Genetic & Prenatal Testing Monday, April 11, 2011

High Risk OB

>

Dry hands with a clean towel, paper towel or air dryer.

>

Remember, if soap and water aren’t available, alcohol-based


Labor & Delivery

hand sanitizers are effective alternatives.


Postpartum (Nursery, NICU, Lactation)

Ladies – Know Your Stroke Risk It’s no secret that medications such as

medical checkups, being physically

birth control pills and hormone replace-

active, maintaining a healthy weight and

ment therapy can increase a woman’s risk

not smoking remain key to minimizing

of stroke. Recent studies suggest that

stroke risk.

biological factors, like early menopause,

Visit our website at gbmc.org/timeforme

In August 2010, GBMC’s Primary Stroke

can also increase risk and that women

Center received re-certification from the

ages 45-54 are more likely to have a stroke

Joint Commission and also earned the

than men. Additionally, women are more

Gold Achievement Award by the American

prone to experience nontraditional stroke

Heart/American Stroke Association.

symptoms such as confusion, chest pain,

For more information on stroke services at GBMC, call 443-849-GBMC (4262).

headache and nausea. Having regular

All events begin at 6:30 p.m. in GBMC’s Civiletti Conference Center. We encourage you to bring along family members and friends! Look for more information later this year.

www.gbmc.org | GREATER living 9

speech therapy across borders

SPEECh ThERAPY ACRoSS BoRDERS:

GBMC uses Web Conferencing to Provide Speech Therapy In Nicaragua Team, got the idea to provide speech therapy to his patients from afar using web conferencing technology. After recovering from surgery, the patients are connected remotely with a speech pathologist, who teaches them how to produce sounds with their reconstructed palates. Patti Bailey, MS, CCC-SLP, Speech Pathology Coordinator for GBMC’s Milton J. Dance Jr. Head and Neck Center and member of the Cleft Lip and Palate team, has been facilitating speech therapy web teleconferences since January 2010. “The conferences enable me to both listen to the children’s speech and see how they are using their lips and tongue when they make sounds. In turn, they are able to see and hear me to imitate what I do,” she Using a webcam and headset in her office, speech pathologist Patti Bailey can deliver the same therapy to children in Nicaragua that she provides to patients at GBMC.

I

n the United States, a child born with a cleft lip and palate, the most common birth defect in the

country, would likely have surgery to close the gap in the roof of the mouth and fuse the opening in the child’s lip. This would be followed by years of rehabilitation and comprehensive services to relearn

explains. “It’s basically the same therapy we provide for children with cleft lips and palates or other speech-language-voice-feeding issues here at the Dance Center, just not in person.” Cleft palates can create communication challenges that are isolating for many children, as their speech and voice quality may make them harder to understand. However, with speech

Cleft palates can create communication challenges that are isolating for many children, as their speech and voice quality may make them harder to understand.

therapy, their lives can turn around. “One child I worked with via teleconference for several months is now singing and dancing in the school play,” says Ms. Bailey. “It is so important that we improve the quality of life for these children so that they can

how to speak. However, in developing nations where patients often rely on medical missionaries

experience things that other children their age would be doing.”

to perform many surgeries, such post-operative therapy is all but nonexistent due to distance and lack of resources. Thanks to members of the Greater Baltimore Cleft Lip and Palate Team at GBMC, some patients in Nicaragua now have access to this important follow-up care. During a recent mission trip, Patrick Byrne, MD, Co-Director of the Cleft Lip and Palate 10 GREATER living |

For more information about the Greater Baltimore Cleft Lip and Palate Team, or about Speech Therapy services, visit gbmc.org or call 443-849-GBMC (4262).

calendar

GBMC’s Calendar of Events GBMC’s Calendar is a listing of events, classes and lectures hosted by the hospital. A complete listing of dates, times and locations is available at gbmc.org under the Community tab.

BEREAVEMENT SuPPoRT GRouPS gilchrist Hospice care Call Gilchrist Hospice Care at 443-849-8251 or visit gilchristhospice.org for information on the support groups offered, including: • Widowed Persons/Life Partner Grief Support Group • Young Widowed Persons/Life Partner Grief Support Group • Adults with Parental Loss Support Group • Using Writing as a Healing Tool Support Group • PALS “Parenting After the Loss of a Spouse” • Mothers’ Grief Support Group • Men’s Grief Support Group • “The Writing Experience Workshop” • Understanding Grief Workshop • Understanding Grief Workshop (Just for Teens) • Bereavement Lunch and Learn

M.I.S.S. (Miscarriage, Infant Death and Stillborn Support) 2nd Thursday of every month; 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Call 443-849-2079 for location. FREE

Voice Screenings Last Thursday of every month; 3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. $15 Call 443-849-2087 for location and to register.

Skin cancer Screening Tuesdays; 5:30 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. $15 • April 12, 2011 • May 3, 2011 • June 7, 2011

oral Screening Program Tuesday, May 10, 2011; 3:30 - 5:30 p.m.

CANCER SuPPoRT GRouPS The laryngectomee Interest group First Tuesday of every month; 12:00 noon – 1:00 p.m.

Dance center Head and neck cancer Patient/Family Support group Third Tuesday of every month; 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Both groups are FREE and are held in the Civiletti Conference Center, Physicians Pavilion East. Call 443-849-2087 for information.

CANCER SCREENINGS look good…Feel Better®* Please call 443-849-3080 for appointments, costs and locations. Or, visit www.gbmc.org, click on “Calendar of Events” and then “Cancer Institute Events.” Registration is required for all screenings.

FREE sessions for women with cancer. First and third Mondays of every month; 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Call 443-849-2037 to register. *An American Cancer Society public service program facilitated by GBMC

Prostate cancer Screening Tuesdays; 5:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. $15 • March 15, 2011 • May 24, 2011 • June 21, 2011

“us Too” International Prostate cancer Education and Support network FREE group for prostate cancer survivors and loved ones. First Monday of most months. Call 443-849-2961 for information and to register.

CoMMuNITY SuPPoRT GRouPS Bone Health and osteoporosis Support Physicians Pavilion West, 3rd Floor (Street Level) Conference Room Call 443-849-3308 for dates and times. FREE

geckle Diabetes & nutrition center Call 443-849-2036 for information on: • • • • • • •

Type 2 Diabetes Classes Management of Gestational Diabetes Insulin Instruction Intensive Diabetes Management Programs Continuous Glucose Monitoring Initiation of Insulin Pump Therapy Diabetes Support Group

GREATER hEALTh CLASSES obesity Management Information Sessions/Support group Information sessions are held on certain Wednesdays each month from 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m., and on certain Saturdays each month from 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Call 443-849-8446 or visit www.gbmc.org/bariatrics for exact dates and/or to register. Support Groups are held for both pre- and post-operative patients. Please contact the office at 443-849-3779 for dates, times and location.

American lung Association Freedom from Smoking® classes Wednesdays; 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Middendorf Consumer Health Library Call 443-849-2531 for dates and more information. FREE

PARENT EDuCATIoN CLASSES/ DouLA TouCh PRoGRAMS Call 443-849-BABY (2229) or visit www.gbmc.org/parented to register.

classes include: • Doula Touch Program Birth and Postpartum support • Mommy Matters Support Group • Childbirth Education (4 week format) • Weekender (1 day condensed format) • “Born Free” the Natural Approach to Childbirth • Infant Care Series and/or Workshop • Pregnancy Information • Select Sitters Babysitting Class • Parents of Multiples • Breastfeeding • Pediatric CPR/Child CPR • Anesthesia • Prenatal Yoga • Sibling Class • Mommy and Me Yoga • Cesarean Class www.gbmc.org | GREATER living 11

Outstanding Physicians

est Quality Care

Highest Quality Care

Heart of Philanthropy Outstanding Phy Health.Healing.Hope.

Heart of Philanthropy

Supe

Foundation Outstanding Physicians

.Hope.

A FAMILY TRADITIoN:

GBMC Donor has Family history of Giving Back to hospital

Curtis Campbell and his family have been giving to GBMC for as long as he can remember. “My grandfather, father and I have always donated to the hospital, both through our company and individually,” he says.

Longtime GBMC donors, Bruce and Curtis Campbell

W

hEN CuRTIS h. CAMPBELL awoke with severe stomach

safety. To show his support to the hospital, each year, Mr.

pain one night, he knew he needed to get to a hospital

Campbell participates in the Foundation’s Golf Classic and

quickly. Fortunately, he already knew just where to turn. With a pregnant wife and a two-year-old son at home, he decided to

attends the Legacy Chase at Shawan Downs steeplechase event. An avid advocate of GBMC, it’s no surprise that both of his

drive himself to “his” hospital, GBMC. “I drove past other hospi-

children – Connor (9) and Emma (7) – were delivered in the

tals to get to GBMC’s Emergency Department. I literally pulled

hospital’s obstetrics unit. All of his nieces and nephews were

into the drop-off circle and crawled into the ED — but I made it

born at GBMC as well. Fittingly, Mr. Campbell serves on the

to the place I trusted most,” he recalls.

Parents Advisory Council, which helps keep GBMC up to date

Mr. Campbell and his family have been giving to GBMC for as long as he can remember. “My grandfather, father and I have always donated to the hospital, both through our company and

about what patients like about the hospital and also address items that may need improvement. “Being active in the GBMC community is extremely

individually,” says Mr. Campbell, whose grandfather,

rewarding. It feels great to give back to the hospital that has

Wallace, was a patient of both GBMC and Gilchrist Hospice Care.

helped my family — and me — out so much during our times

He and his father, Bruce, own Wallace H. Campbell and

of need,” says Mr. Campbell.

Company, a full service real estate firm in Baltimore. The company has provided a gift to support placing Automated

Learn how to get involved with the GBMC Foundation

External Defibrillators (AEDs) in the physician pavilions —

by visiting its new interactive website,

an endeavor that would inevitably enhance patient and visitor

http://foundation.gbmc.org, or by calling 443-849-2773.

12 GREATER living | GBMC Foundation

The heart of philanthropy at GBMC

Highe

ysicians

Superior Nursing Care Highest Quality Care Outstanding Phys Health.Healing.Hope. Heart of Philanthropy GBMC Foundation Health


erior Nursing Care

est Quality Care Heart of Philanthropy Outstanding Physicians Highest Quality Care Heart of Philanthro Debbie and Ned Rosenberg

Greater Gifts A Special Thank You for a Special Evening Together, Debbie and Ned Rosenberg and Catherine and Seth McDonnell generously co-hosted the Annual Virginia Sherwood Council/William A. & Jarnetta Kroh Society Dinner on September 13, 2010. This annual evening of appreciation is held to thank the many individuals, corporations and foundations whose gifts of $2,500 or more enable GBMC and Gilchrist Hospice Care to continue

Mac and Helen Passano with Seth and Catherine McDonnell

their excellent care for members of the community.

Bluestone/Colours Benefit The Bluestone Restaurant and Colours Day Spa & Salon Annual Golf Tournament recently raised $30,000 to benefit the Sandra & Malcolm Berman Comprehensive Breast Care Center and urologic oncology services at GBMC. The support from this event helps to ensure that thousands of women and men get the very best care and treatment.

Dedication of a Special Retreat The newly created “Ellen H. Gordes Staff Retreat” at the Sandra & Malcolm Berman Cancer Institute was dedicated on a beautiful Henry “Hank” Gordes at the newly created Ellen H. Gordes Staff Retreat

October morning thanks to the generous gift of Henry “Hank” Gordes. Mr. Gordes made the donation in appreciation for the wonderful care delivered to his late wife, Ellen, by the Cancer Institute staff. For information about making a gift to help provide the best care to GBMC patients, visit the GBMC Foundation at http://foundation.gbmc.org, on Facebook, or call 443-849-2773.

Celebrate National Doctors’ Day Recognizing the commitment, dedication and expertise of your GBMC doctors ThEY are the ones we call when we or our

your gift. If you wish, you can also include

loved ones are in pain, the ones who comfort

a personal thank you note and that will

us with their reassuring words.

also be forwarded to your doctor.

Now there is a special way to say “thank you” to your GBMC doctor. Honor your GBMC

Visit the GBMC Foundation website at

doctor for “National Doctors’ Day” on March

http://foundation.gbmc.org (look for

30, 2011 with a tax-deductible gift. The

the Doctors’ Day icon) for additional

GBMC Foundation will notify your doctor of

information or to make a gift.

http://foundation.gbmc.org

GBMC Foundation | GREATER living 13

Outstanding Physicians

est Quality Care

.Hope.

Highest Quality Care

Heart of Philanthropy Outstanding Phy Health.Healing.Hope.


Supe

Foundation Outstanding Physicians

A Member of the GBMC Family Wins the Legacy Chase Car Raffle ExCITING NEWS CAME with the announcement of this year’s winner of the 10th Annual Legacy Chase Car Raffle. The winner was a member of GBMC’s own family, Debby O’Hara, a long-time GBMC volunteer and supporter. The Car Raffle is part of the Annual Legacy Chase at Shawan Downs steeplechase, which benefits GBMC. This year, proceeds were earmarked for the Nursing Department and the Sandra & Malcolm Berman Comprehensive Breast Care Center. One lucky raffle winner can choose a new Mercedes Benz or $30,000 as the grand prize. Mrs. O’Hara opted for the money - after taxes, she collected $19,700 from the $100 raffle ticket purchased in From left: Michelle May, Shawan Downs Coordinator, Rachel Ladenson, Interim Vice President of Development for GBMC Foundation, and John Chessare, MD, GBMC President and CEO, present volunteer Debby O’Hara with her check from the Legacy Chase Raffle.

GBMC’s Corner Shop, where she has volunteered for 19 years. A resident of Phoenix, Maryland, Mrs. O’Hara has been an advocate of GBMC since she was successfully treated at the hospital for cancer 22 years ago. “GBMC is a great asset to the community, and that’s the reason I bought the ticket,” she says. With six children and 11 grandchildren, she will have many ways to spend her winnings!

Mark Your Calendars for the GBMC Golf Classic on May 16, 2011 ThE 23RD ANNuAL GBMC GoLF CLASSIC will be held at the beautiful Turf Valley Resort on Monday, May 16, 2011. The annual tournament is made possible by the dedication of the Golf Classic Committee members and the co-chairs, Robert Stoltz, MD, and Michael Forthman, GBMC’s Vice President of Facilities and Support Services. Beneficiaries of the tournament include the GBMC Medical Staff’s Nursing & Allied Health Professional Education Fund, the Middendorf Consumer Health Library & John E. Savage Medical Library as well as GBMC’s Continuing Medical Education Department. online registration is now available by visiting http://foundation.gbmc.org.

14 GREATER living | GBMC Foundation

The heart of philanthropy at GBMC

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Foundation unveils Interactive Website ThE GBMC FouNDATIoN is proud to announce the launch of its new interactive website http://foundation.gbmc.org! Visit today to create your custom login so that you can begin receiving e-mail updates on the current events happening at GBMC Foundation and the amazing impact our donors are having at the hospital. While you are browsing, don’t forget to visit our Events pages to plan your calendars for 2011 and get more information on this year’s new “Friends Asking Friends” Father’s Day 5K website. You can register for the 5K today and create your own From left: Michael Forthman, GBMC’s Vice President of Facilities and Support Services, stands with Steve Cohen, Director of Security, and Gill Fenwick alongside the wheelchair accessible van she donated.

team page to start sharing with your friends and raising pledges for the race!

Wheels on Wheels! IN 2009, GILLIAN “GILL” FENWICK fell and broke her leg. “The doctors and nurses at GBMC who cared for me couldn’t have been better,” she says. “I was thankful for the excellent treatment and rehabilitation.” Her only complaint was that she couldn’t board the GBMC shuttle bus when she needed transportation. “I was wheelchair bound with a cast from foot to hip, but unfortunately, the shuttle provided at GBMC was not wheelchair accessible,” she explains. That is when Ms. Fenwick got the idea to make a terrific, yet practical gift. She purchased a 2007 Chrysler T & C Touring van, fully equipped with a wheelchair lift to help patients like herself better navigate the GBMC campus. “I figured I wasn’t the only person in that situation,” she says. According to Steve Cohen, GBMC’s Director of Security, “Ms. Fenwick’s thoughtful gift arrived just as we had to retire one of our older vehicles.”

A Greater Legacy

A native of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Dr. Sondheimer graduated with honors from Franklin-Marshall College. After serving in World War I, he attended Johns Hopkins Medical School and

ThE BEQuEST oF DR. A. ADLER SoNDhEIMER offers a good

earned his degree in 1921. He began his career at Sinai Hospital

example of how a relatively simple, but effective, gift plan can

and was named chief of gynecology in 1952. He held that

benefit both the people you care about and GBMC.

position until he retired in 1961.

Through his estate plan, Dr. Sondheimer created a trust that

Dr. Sondheimer’s simple and thoughtful plan, which

provided a steady income for his former housekeeper. Today,

supported his friend during her lifetime, will now help make a

nearly thirty years later, the remainder of that trust benefits

difference in the healthcare of his community through GBMC.

the charitable organizations that were important to him. As a grateful patient of GBMC, Dr. Sondheimer included the hospital in his wishes.

http://foundation.gbmc.org

To learn more about ways to give to GBMC, visit http://foundation.gbmc.org or call 443-849-3303.

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6701 North Charles Street Baltimore, Maryland 21204 GreAter living is published three times a year by the Marketing and Communications Department of Greater Baltimore Medical Center, a private, non-profit healthcare provider. Information provided is general in nature and should not be substituted for the medical advice of a physician. Please consult your healthcare provider for recommendations specific to your own personal health, medical treatment and conditions. Director of Marketing Marketing Communications Manager Publications Coordinator

Michael P. Hartnett Lisa J. Schwartz Jessica Schoeffield

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Contributing Writers

Heather Abdel-Salam Gwen Graham

Contributing Photographers Tracey Brown, Rich McDonnell, Jamie Hurst Photography Printing

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$MLLCAR UGRF (#.$ You already know that GBMC offers high quality medical care with personalized service. Learn even more about how our team can help you along the road to wellness by staying in touch with us virtually! Find GBMC on all your favorite social networks, like… Blog – Read and comment on the official GBMC blog, A Healthy Dialogue, featuring President and CEO, John Chessare, MD, at http://ahealthydialogue.blogspot.com/ Facebook – Become a “fan” today! Keep up with our services, events and patient stories at facebook.com/GBMCMedia

Twitter – Follow us at twitter.com/GBMCMedia for current information about what is happening at the hospital. Vimeo & YouTube – Check out recent videos of our physicians and patients at Vimeo.com/gbmc or youtube.com/user/GBMCMedia. Many are also available in the Video Library at gbmc.org/video

Or, scan this QR code with your smartphone to get easy access to all of the links!