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T IS SO TRUE that the level of care and compassion given during treatment can drastical-ly improve a patient’s outcome,”

said 60-year-old Stephen Hautman. “Everyone involved in my care has given me the support and encouragement needed to get through this and get back to living my life.”

Mr. Hautman speaks from experience. He was recently treated for stage IV lung cancer—in addition to having open heart surgery.

He first became concerned when he started coughing up blood. He imme-diately saw his primary care physician who diagnosed him with pneumonia. Concerned that Mr. Hautman’s condition might be more serious, the physician sent him for a PET scan, which detected cancer in the right lung. He immediately underwent surgery to remove the cancer

and was treated with chemotherapy followed by radiation.

After completing treatment, a follow-up scan showed the cancer had spread to his rib. Mr. Hautman received six weeks of radiation to the rib. He was able to work during all of his treatment. Remarkably, although his cancer spread, he has been in remission since treatment more than two years ago. In addition, he recently had open heart surgery at Good Sam and is recovering nicely.

Mr. Hautman’s case demonstrates that cancers that return in only one area can potentially have long-term remission and survival with appropriate treatment. Using the Varian True-Beam™ linear accelerator to deliver highly focused radiation, Good Samaritan physicians have safely and effectively treated pa-tients with stage IV cancer with limited spread. Approximately one third of

patients with limited stage IV cancer remain in long-term remission with this approach. These outcomes appear to be superior to drug therapy alone.

Researchers at Good Samaritan recently demonstrated that

Life After Traumatic

Brain Injury

4

Sunny Outlook After Sophisticated

Brain Surgery

6

Outrunning Cystic

Fibrosis

9SEPTEMBER

2015New Cardiac

Catheterization Lab Unveiled

8

NEW TECHNIQUE IN TREATING CANCER

I

(CONTINUED ON PAGE 11)

Patient Stephen Hautman with Chairman of the Department of Radiation Oncology Johnny Kao, MD, and radiation therapist Jennifer Sterlazzo.

“

2 GOOD NEWS FROM GOOD SAM | SEPTEMBER 2015

THE GOOD SAMARITAN IS A biblical figure and the main character in a parable that Christ used to answer the question “who is my neighbor?” In the story, a traveler is beaten,

robbed, and left to die on the side of the road. Two passersby ignore the victim and continue on their way. A Samaritan comes along, and moved by the suffering of the stranger, bandages his wounds and pays for him to be lodged at an inn while he recovers. The Samaritan personifies mercy and is held up as an example by Jesus.

This is the parable that gives Good Samaritan Hospital its name and its identity. Within our walls are more than 3,000 of your neighbors who are inspired by our namesake to provide compassionate, high qual-ity care to all those in need.

In this publication you will read about some of the many ways in which we live out this mission. You will meet gifted physicians like Dr. Johnny Kao who is an innovator in caring for our region’s cancer patients (see cover story). On page 3 you will read about a group of retired physicians who model the Good Samaritan’s example by providing free medical care to the most vulnerable among us. You will meet some of the patients whose lives were saved through the extraordinary care they received at Good Sam—patients like Theresa Calcares, who underwent sophisticated brain surgery, and Christopher McCarthy, a young man who is back in the game following a devastating traumatic injury, and six-year-old James Callaghan who inspires us by refusing to let cystic fibrosis limit him.

Good Sam’s caregivers are blessed by the philanthropic support of many of our friends and neighbors—individuals who, like the biblical Good Samaritan, open their hearts to help others. We are grateful to benefactors like Theresa Patnode Santmann, who helped support the construction of our third cardiac catheterization laboratory as featured on page 8. Our Guild members are stalwart supporters whose most recent gifts, shown on pages 6 and 7, enhance patient care in our emer-gency department and critical care units. Many young people in our community have learned that it is never too soon to learn generosity. We are the grateful beneficiaries of charitable gestures by local girl scout troops and even the younger brother of a former patient.

With the Good Samaritan as our model, we continue to dedicate our-selves to maintaining, improving and restoring the health of all those who turn to us. Through free educational programs and screenings, in-formative articles on healthy lifestyles, leading edge diagnostic technol-ogy, and the most advanced treatments available, Good Samaritan’s staff is committed to meeting your family’s medical needs. We look forward to caring for you and your loved ones now and in the future.

A Message From the Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer

Nancy B. Simmons

For more information on services and a Good Sam physician directory,

please call (631) 376-4444.

Good News is published by

Good Samaritan’s Office of Public Affairs

and Marketing.

NANCY SIMMONS Executive Vice President and

Chief Administrative Officer

THERESA JACOBELLIS Assistant Vice President of

Public Affairs and Marketing

COLLEEN VALDINI Public and External Affairs

Manager/Editor

RICHARD HELM Photographer

CONTRIBUTORS: Georgeine Bellando

Sue Grimm Justin Jaycon

Chrissy Valencia

Good Samaritan Hospital Foundation

Board of TrusteesKelly Daniele-Crosman, Chair

Aileen EppigKathy Giamo

Sister Ellen Moore, ex officioWilliam A. Mullaney, Treasurer

Henry C. Schreiber, Jr., Vice ChairSister Cathy Sheehan, ex officio

Nancy B. SimmonsMichael Virgilio

John J. Vullo, DO, Secretary

Catholic Health Services Board of Trustees

Salvatore F. Sodano, ChairmanBrian R. McGuire, Vice Chair

Joseph Tantillo, SecretaryChristopher Pascucci, Treasurer

Barbara Ellen Black, DPSKevin J. ConwayPeter P. D’Angelo

Rev. Peter DugandzicVirginia A. Ewen, RNJohn Francfort, MD

Sister Audrey Harsen, OPAlexander Hazelton

Brian P. HehirDeacon Frank L. Kurre

The Hon. Anthony MaranoStephen F. McLoughlin

Rev. Monsignor Robert MorrisseyJerome M. Poller

Daniel T. RoweRev. Monsignor James Vlaun

John J. WagnerWilliam Ward

YOU CAN ALSO FIND US ONLINE:good-samaritan-hospital.org

facebook.com/GoodSamaritan HospitalMedicalCenter

@GoodSamaritanLI

youtube.com/user/gshmc

Instagram: GoodSamLI

WWW.GOOD-SAMARITAN-HOSPITAL.ORG 3

“DOCTORS ARE NEVER really retired. They are always ready to treat those in need of medical care. I consider it a privilege that people come to see us,” said Aram Chowdhury, MD.

Dr. Chowdhury is one of a dedicated group of 20 retired health care professionals who, since 1993, have volunteered their services to take care of community members without insurance. The doctors and nurses who retired from Good Samaritan Hospital are part of a Community Outreach Program that sees a dozen or so patients a week. The pro-gram is available to anyone who is not regularly seen by a physi-cian or clinic. Patients receive

a complete physical including electrocardiogram (EKG), chest X-ray, blood and urine tests, breast exam, Pap smear and echocardiogram if needed.

The program was started by several of the hospital’s founding physicians, Robert Schick, MD; Edward Lanagan, MD; Robert Levin, MD and Joseph Lambert, MD. Presently, there are four physicians, three nurses and an interpreter who work as a team. Many patients are from diverse economic and cultural backgrounds. The doctors assess and diagnose patients and create a treatment plan. Patients are then referred to local clinics for follow up care.

Left to right: Community Outreach Program Coordinator Charlphine H. Lanigan, RN; Chris Smith, RN; Abul Mohdiuddin, MD; Aram Chowdhury, MD; William Caracci, MD; Anthony Baratta, MD; Barbara Campbell, RN and interpreter Amparo Arcila staffed Good Samaritan’s Community Outreach Program on a recent Thursday morning.

Retired Health Care Professionals Give Back

Good Samaritan Receives

OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT AWARD FOR CANCER PROGRAM

Appointments are scheduled on Thursday mornings from September through May. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (631) 376-3182, Tuesday and Wednesday, between 10:00 am and 2:00 pm.

OOD SAMARITAN, the diagnostic and treatment center of choice for thousands of patients, has earned its fourth

consecutive Outstanding Achievement Award from the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer. A facil-ity receives the Outstanding Achievement Award following the on-site evaluation by a physician surveyor during which the fa-cility demonstrates a commendation level of compliance with seven standards that represent the full scope of the cancer program and, in addition, a compliance

rating for the remaining 29 standards.“We are one of only six institutions in

the nation to be recognized every review cycle since the award’s inception 12 years ago,” said Chairman of the Cancer Com-mittee and Chief of Hematology/Oncology Kenneth Gold, MD. “Good Samaritan un-dergoes a rigorous evaluation process and review of performance every three years to maintain this prestigious standing.”

Good Samaritan’s cancer program offers patients access to:• Comprehensive care, including a range of

state-of-the art services and technology• Multispecialty, team approach to

coordinate the best treatment options

• Information about ongoing clinical trials and new treatment options

• Cancer-related information, education and support

• Cancer registry, which collects data on type and stage of cancers along with treatment results, and offers lifelong patient follow-up

• Ongoing monitoring and improvement of care

• Quality care close to home

To consult with a Good Samaritan cancer specialist, call (631) 376-4444.

G


YOUNG MAN FOLLOWS HIS DREAM AFTER A TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY

N AUGUST 6, 2014, Christopher

McCarthy was hit by a car

two days before returning to college in Massachusetts. It would have been his senior year at Becker College, where he was captain of the football team. Within minutes of arriving at Good Samaritan Hospital’s Emergency De-partment, where Christopher was brought by ambulance, a doctor explained to his parents the seriousness of his injuries. At just 22-years-old, Christopher had suffered a traumatic brain injury, seri-ous injury to his right leg and several fractures. He needed a miracle.

In the first few days of Christopher’s hospitalization his prognosis did not look

good. He was on a ventilator and unresponsive, but the staff at Good Samaritan never gave up hope. His parents, Michael and Michelle and

three siblings, Michael, Ryan and Kerry were at his bedside every day. They prayed that Christopher would regain consciousness. He had a team of specialists led by trauma surgeons Stephen Blau, MD, and Kathleen O’Hara, MD, working around the clock.

“We were so comforted to know that Chris was get-ting the best possible care,” said his mother, Michelle. “The staff laughed, cried and prayed with us.”

Weeks into his hospital-ization Christopher woke up, began speaking and started remembering his family. Along with the excellent skill of all the health care provid-ers, visits from familiar faces had a lot to do with Christo-pher’s recovery.

Christopher was not

going to let his accident derail his plans of graduat-ing. Following ten surgeries and months of rehabilitation, he is doing remarkably well.

Christopher has returned to college for his senior year to complete his studies in criminal justice. No longer able to play football, he was asked to remain on the team to assist the coaches and his former teammates.

“Christopher’s doctors have told us that Christo-pher can do everything he could do before his accident except contact sports,” said his mother, Michelle.

In 1995, Good Samaritan Hospital became a New York State Department of Health designated Level II Trauma Center, an indica-tion that the hospital is staffed and equipped to provide life-saving care to

severely injured patients at any hour of the day or night. The hospital is a high volume trauma center, one of the busiest in Suffolk County, providing trauma care to more than 1,600 men, women and children each year. Good Samaritan has assembled a multidisci-plinary trauma team that is working diligently toward a planned 2015 American Col-lege of Surgeons site visit and review. If verified, Good Sam will be among the first hospitals in New York State to be named an ACS-COT Level II Trauma Center.

Good Samaritan’s trauma initiative has been the impetus for organizational enhancements and pro-grammatic developments in virtually every unit and department of the hospital, and support the trauma care for the thousands of men, women and children who rely on Good Sam for life-saving care every day. Fortunately for Christopher, the staff at Good Samaritan Hospital never gave up hope. For more information on

Good Samaritan’s Trauma

Services, call (631) 376-4444.

O

“We were so comforted to know that Chris was getting the best possible care.” —MICHELLE McCARTHY, MOTHER OF CHRISTOPHER

Christopher McCarthy


OSHUA DENKER was only five-years-old when he had his first seizure. He was diagnosed

with epilepsy, a disorder in which nerve cell activity in the brain is disturbed, causing seizures.

As he grew, his seizures became more frequent. Following a grand-mal seizure two years ago, he lost consciousness for several minutes and collapsed.

His parents, Gail and Nowell, saw Kevin Khodabakhsh, MD, at that time an attending physician at Mount Sinai-Beth Israel, for a second opinion. When Dr. Khodabakhsh joined Good Sam’s division of pediatric neurology, they followed.

“We travel more than 30 miles from our Bayside home to Babylon for Joshua’s care,” said Mrs. Denker. “We would follow Dr. Khodabakhsh anywhere. He saved our son’s life.”

Joshua’s initial treatment included be-ing weaned off all medication, ultimately finding one better suited to his needs. Dr. Khodabakhsh spent a great deal of time

listening to Joshua’s parents before de-veloping a treatment plan. He also talked extensively with Joshua in order to better understand his needs.

Finding the correct medication to control Joshua’s seizures was difficult but since being under Dr. Khodabakhsh’s care, Joshua has not had a seizure in nearly three years. Today, Joshua is a healthy, happy 13-year-old who enjoys baseball and attending camp with other boys his age.

Epilepsy is diagnosed in 125,000 Americans each year. Epilepsy drugs are prescribed to control seizures, and sur-gery is rarely necessary if medications are effective. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to determine which medication will work best for the individual patients.

“When dealing with epilepsy it is often necessary to get a second and third opin-ion before finding the right treatment program,” said Dr. Khodabakhsh. “All children are unique and it is crucial for the attending physician to be accessible while monitoring a child’s care.”

Dr. Khodabakhsh, a pediatric neurolo-gist, sees patients at Good Sam’s Center for Pediatric Care in Babylon. For more information on pediatric care

at Good Samaritan

Hospital, call (631)

376-4444 or visit

goodsampediatrics.

org or scan this

QR code with your

smartphone.

Epilepsy Specialist Joins Good Sam

J

Joshua Denker and Dr. Khodabakhsh at Joshua’s bat mitzvah.

Pediatric Patients Benefit From “Sabrina’s Cause”

Sabrina Abenante, a fourth grader at Woods Road Elementary School in North Babylon, held a special fundraiser to benefit

pediatric patients at Good Samaritan Hospital. The project, “Sabrina’s Cause” was in response to a program introduced by the school’s Principal, Steven Golub, which encourages students to give to those in need. Sabrina organized two dress in pink days. Participating students who wore pink also donated $1.00 to Sabrina’s Cause which raised $240 to purchase toys for pediatric patients at Good Samaritan.

Left to right: Woods Road Elementary School Principal Steven Golub, Sabrina Abenante and Good Samaritan Hospital Director of Child Life Kathleen Fenton.


EADACHES were common

for 66-year-

old Theresa

Calcanes. She thought her

stressful job and added

respon-sibility of caring for her

92-year-old mother were the

cause of her headaches. She

would take aspirin to relieve

the pain and go on with her du-

ties. Then one day, she stopped

mid-sentence while talking

with a co-worker, unable to

remember what month it was.

She decided to take a few days

off to rest.

After three weeks of

mem-ory and speech issues,

she went to Good Samaritan

Hospital’s Emergency Depart-

ment for evaluation. She im-

mediately had a computerized

axial tomography or CAT scan

and magnetic resonance imag-

ing (MRI). Tests showed

a very large and

deep seated brain

tumor in the left

hemisphere of

her brain which

required immedi-

ate surgery.

Two days later,

one of Good Samari-

tan’s expert neurosurgeons,

Borimir Darakchiev, MD,

removed the tumor in a five-

hour surgical procedure using

intraoperative image guidance

and microsurgical techniques.

Surgery was followed by radia-

tion treatment. Ms. Calcanes is

now receiving chemotherapy

for six weeks.

“I feel amazing and can’t

believe I had surgery,” said

Ms. Calcanes. “If it weren’t

for my quick diagnosis and

expedient care, my

prognosis would

not be good.”

For Ms.

Calcanes, finding

Dr. Darakchiev

was a “life-saver.”

Just four days after

surgery, she was

taking walks around her West

Babylon neighborhood with her

daughters, and had recovered

fully enough to return to work

and care for her mother.

“Today’s advanced medicine

and technology allow neuro-

surgeons to effectively treat

patients with tumors in delicate

areas of the brain,” said Dr.

Darakchiev. “Ms. Calcanes’

prognosis is excellent, with her

current imaging showing no

evidence of tumor recurrence.”

Good Samaritan offers the

highest quality in neurological

and neurosurgical care. Patients

have access to state-of-the-art

technology, as well as the

region’s most experienced neu-

rosurgeons and neurologists. A

full spectrum of care is provided,

including corrective surgery

for both neck and back pain.

Minimally invasive treatment is

available and benefits those who

suffer from pain associated with

osteoporosis or bulging, herni-

ated or degenerated disks. For more information on

Good Samaritan’s neurosurgery

services, call (631) 376-4444 or

visit good-samaritan-hospital.org/

gshneurosurgery.

SUNNY OUTLOOK AFTER SOPHISTICATED BRAIN SURGERY

Theresa Calcanes

GUILDS SUPPORT SURGICAL INTENSIVE CARE AND EMERGENCY SERVICES THE GUILDS OF Good Samaritan Hospital recently presented $80,000 to the Good Samaritan Hospital Foundation to benefit the Surgical Intensive Care Unit (SICU) and Emergency Department (ED). These donations will enhance surgical ser-vices by supporting the acquisition

of a fourth Arctic Sun temperature management system in addition to the acquisition of 12 new stretchers for the ED. The Arctic Sun is used to lower the patient’s body tempera-ture, slowing their metabolism and in turn reducing the brain’s need for oxygen.

Pictured (L-R): Chairperson of the Good Samaritan Hospital Foundation Board of Trustees Kelly Daniele-Crosman; Central Council of the Guilds President Marie Nicharico; Director of Critical Care Services Elisabeth Vallone, RN; SICU Nurse Manager, Karen Fee, RN and Executive Director of the Good Samaritan Hospital Foundation Kelly Albanese Scherer.

H


Accepting on behalf of the Emergency Depart-ment, Transport and the Foundation (left to right): Executive Director of the Good Samaritan Hospital Foundation Kelly Albanese Scherer; Good Samaritan Hospital’s Interim Chair of Emergency Medicine Eric DeCena, MD; Central Council of the Guilds President Marie Nicharico; Good Samaritan Hospital’s Director, Emergency Department Glenda Miranda, RN; Good Samari-tan Hospital Foundation Trustee Aileen Eppig; Good Samaritan Hospital’s Operations Manager, Environmental/Transport/Telecommunications Services Anthony Anitra and Nurse Manager, Emergency Department Judy Modica, RN.

Garden Party Raises Money for Mother/Baby Care at Good Samaritan

THIS SPRING, hospital friends Jean Grunwald and Terese Weber hosted a Garden Party Luncheon at Timber

Point in Great River. More than 100 guests attended the event which raised funds to benefit Mother/Baby Care at Good Samaritan. The after-noon included summer fashion previews from Lord & Taylor in Bay Shore, floral arrangement demonstrations and gardening tips by Sump-wams Garden Club members Jean Ann Gottsch and Marie Capitano, raffles, door prizes, and a special presentation by Benjamin M. Schwartz, MD, FACOG, FACS, Chair of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Good Samaritan. Dr. Schwartz spoke about the future of women’s health at Good Sam.

53rd ANNUAL GOOD SAMARITAN HOSPITAL BALL

Sweetest DayHONORING

Daniel LeibowitzPRESIDENT

HUNTER EMS AMBULANCE, INC.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2015COCKTAILS AT SIX O’CLOCK

DINNER AT HALF PAST SEVENCREST HOLLOW COUNTRY CLUB

8325 JERICHO TURNPIKE ~ WOODBURY, NY

$300 PER PERSON ~ BLACK TIERSVP BY OCTOBER 1

Proceeds to Benefi t the Good Samaritan Hospital FoundationFOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CALL (631) 376-3333

OR VISIT WWW.GOODSAMBALL.COM

(Left to right) Good Samaritan Hospital Foundation Executive Director Kelly Albanese-Scherer, Jean Ann Gottsch, Marie Capitano, Jean Grunwald, Terese Weber, Eileen LaMendola and Good Samaritan Hospital’s Manager of Special Events Chrissy Valencia.


HOSPITAL INTRODUCES NEW CARDIAC CATHETERIZATION LAB

H OSPITAL STAFF, administrators, physicians, elected

officials and community mem-bers helped celebrate Good Samaritan Hospital’s addition of a third Cardiac Catheterization Lab to the Theresa Patnode Santmann Division of Cardiovas-cular Services. These state-of-the-art cardiac catheterization laboratories are equipped with the latest in digital cardiovascu-lar and interventional imaging systems. They are used for advanced examination and treat-ment of cardiac and vascular conditions, including blocked coronary arteries. Procedures are performed in the cardiac

Among those in attendance were (L-R): Associate Chief Medical Officer Donald Teplitz, DO; Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer Nancy Simmons; Director of Cardiovascular Services Theresa Adair; Town of Islip Coun-cilman John Cochrane; Interventional Cardiology Director David Reich, MD; Assistant Vice President of Imaging, Cardiology and Cancer Services Ralph Corbino; Catheterization Lab Medical Director Ezra Deutsch, MD; Town of Islip Supervisor Angie Carpenter; Theresa Patnode Santmann; Department of Internal Medicine Chair and Senior Vice President of Medical Affairs Jerome Weiner, MD and Assistant Vice President of Facilities Management Richard Bie.

GIRL SCOUT Troop 3688 from

Babylon recently donated knit-ted hats and booties and fleece blankets to babies in the Neona-tal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) as part of their Bronze Award. They made more than 150 hats and 20 pairs of booties and will continue to work on more.

Good Samaritan’s NICU provides a broad spectrum of specialized, multidisciplinary intensive care services for

infants as young as 23 weeks and as small as one pound. The NICU team includes skilled

and professional neonatal nurses, with specialized training in providing round-

the-clock care for sick new-borns and premature babies. Available to assist the neo-natologist are subspecialists in various fields of pediatrics, including surgery, cardiology, neurology, hematology, gastro-enterology and pulmonology, as well as infectious disease and development.

For more information on

Good Samaritan’s NICU, call (631)

376-4444 or visit www.good-

samaritan-hospital.org.

Handmade Hats and Blankets Donated to Babies in NICU

Pictured (front row, left to right): Salena Roberts, Samantha Cannetti, Brooke Keen, Victoria Lang, Nicole Jarvis, Lily Hagan, Sachi Onishi, Gabriela Schaefer, Catherine Shaw, and Elena Khavkin. (back row, left to right): Alexis Lewis, Troop Leader Emily Moran, Loraine Felismé, Good Samaritan NICU Nurse Manager Laurie Mastandrea, and Christen Vota.

interventional imaging system.“We are proud to be able

to offer the most advanced technology available,” said Chief Administrative Officer Nancy Simmons. “Having this additional Catheterization Lab will enable us to accommodate the growing number of patients seeking the excellent quality cardiac care we provide.”

For more information, scan this QR code with your smartphone.

catheterization laboratory by an interventional cardiologist and a team of cardiovascular nurses and technicians. Good Samaritan’s

catheterization lab is the first facility in New York State equipped with the IGS 530 advanced digital cardiovascular and


OUTRUNNING CYSTIC FIBROSISIX-YEAR-OLD James Callaghan achieved un-precedented success when he recently earned Gold,

Silver and Bronze medals running track for his Catholic Youth Organization (CYO) team at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish in Lindenhurst. This is an amazing accomplishment for someone his age but what is even more significant is that James has been living with Cystic Fibrosis (CF) since birth. Although CF is a life-affecting disorder, James continues to push himself to the limits. James has been very healthy but similar to other CF patients, he struggles during winter months when he gets the occasional cold. He does not let these setbacks keep him from enjoying sports.

“Ordinarily, having CF would make it difficult to run but James is very deter-mined and fast so he runs through the difficult time, even when he might not be feeling his best,” said his mother, Nicole.

CF is a life-threatening, genetic disease affecting approximately 30,000 children and adults in the United States. It causes the body to produce abnormally thick mucus, which clogs the airways and leads to life-threatening lung infections. The pancreas can also be obstructed, prevent-ing enzymes from reaching the intestines and breaking down and digesting food. Many CF patients go through most of their lives undiagnosed.

James was first seen by Good Samari-tan Hospital’s Medical Director of the Center for Cystic Fibrosis Louis Guida, MD, at three weeks old for follow up care on his newborn blood test which

showed a possibility for CF. James had also lost weight during his first few weeks home from the hospital. At one year old, after repeated colds and pneu-monia, a sweat test was performed at Good Samaritan confirming a diagnosis of Cystic Fibrosis.

The sweat test, a diagnostic test for CF, is a painless procedure that measures the amount of salt in sweat. A high salt level can be an indicator for CF. Good Samaritan is currently one of only two hospitals in Suffolk County to perform sweat tests. James’ mother was relieved to have a diagnosis early so her son could get the care and treatment needed to keep him healthy.

Dr. Guida sees James monthly and his prognosis is good. “There is nothing James can’t do. I encourage his love of

running which gives him such joy and sense of accomplishment,” said Dr. Gui-da. “Good Samaritan has been treating patients with CF for the past 45 years. It has been rewarding to see young children grow into adolescents and adulthood and live an active life despite this condition.”

“The team was very fortunate to have had James participate this year,” said Paul Thompson, Assistant Coach of CYO Track program at Our Lady of Per-petual Help Church. “James is extremely strong for his age and a very fast runner. He poured every ounce of energy he had into each practice and race, doing his part for both himself and the team.”

Good Samaritan Hospital is desig-nated by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation as an affiliate Cystic Fibrosis Center of Columbia University Hospital. Good Samaritan’s Cystic Fibrosis program began in 1967 with assistance from the CF Foundation, becoming the first CF clinic in Suffolk County. Its approach to treating CF has progressed through the years as medical breakthroughs have been realized, providing care and support to the CF patient, parents and family members.

The multidisciplinary CF staff at Good Samaritan provide state-of-the-art care close to home. The specialized team in-cludes physicians, nurses, social workers, nutritionists and respiratory therapists. Therapy includes prevention and treat-ment of lung problems, good nutrition and physical activity as well as psycho-logical and social support. For information on Good Samaritan’s

Cystic Fibrosis Center, call (631) 376-4444.

S

James Callaghan


GRATEFUL BROTHER DONATES TO GOOD SAMARITAN HOSPITAL FOUNDATION

EST ISLIP HIGH School senior Sean Wilson

collects loose change donated by patrons at local

establishments to give back to the hospital that saved his brother’s life. Through his “Change for Children” fundraiser, Sean col-lected $2,392.63 to benefit Good Samaritan Hospital’s pediatric department, presenting a check to Good Samaritan Hospital Foundation Executive Director Kelly Albanese Scherer.

Sean believes in “paying it forward,” after his brother, Christopher, spent six weeks—the first 11 days in a coma—in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, critically injured after being hit by a car while walking to school.

Three years later, thanks to the support of his family and health care providers, Chris-topher has finished his first year of college and has made a remarkable recovery.

Good Samaritan’s pediatric department offers comprehensive services to ensure that newborns through adolescents receive expert care close to home. The hospital provides pediatric emergency services, a pediatric intensive care unit and a neonatal intensive care unit in addition to the largest freestand-ing outpatient pediatric specialty care center on Long Island. For more information on the Good

Samaritan Hospital Foundation or pediatric

services, please call (631) 376-4444 or visit

goodsamaritanhospitalfoundation.org.

W

The Good Samaritan Hospital Foundation Director Kelly Albanese Scherer accepts

donation from Sean Wilson.

Hospital Staff Ride in Support of Veterans

A team of more than 25 employ-ees from Good Samaritan par-

ticipated in the Town of Babylon’s Wounded Warrior Soldier Ride, a cycling opportunity for wounded service members and veterans. This project helps use cycling and the bonds of service to overcome physical, mental, or emotional wounds. The ride was an exhilarat-ing tour through the Town of Babylon and ended with a scenic crossing of the Robert Moses Bridge and Ocean Parkway to Overlook Beach. In addition to Team Good Sam, the hospital supported the ride by providing water bottles to all riders and a triage tent at Over-look Beach to assist in any rider injuries.


Junior Volunteers Earn Scholarships

T HE GUILDS OF Good Samaritan Hospital recently presented

$1,500 scholarships to three exemplary junior volunteers. The 2015 honorees—Michelle

Blum, Chloe Brett Hoetner and Davian Ramphal—plan to pursue careers that will utilize the skills they have developed while volunteering.

Michelle Blum, a graduate of St. John the Baptist High School, has contributed more than 135 hours to the hospital’s medical records department, linen room, B Unit, gift cart and at the concierge desk and plans to pursue a career in computer engineering as a college stu-dent at Manhattan College.

“Working in so many areas of the hospital has taught me that all tasks are important and that there is constantly more work to be completed. The memories I have and the skills I developed will remain with me throughout my life,” said Ms. Blum. She resides in Holbrook.

Also a St. John the Baptist High School graduate, Chloe

Brett Hoerner volunteered in the hospital’s busy Gift Shop, contributing more than 140 hours of service. She will be attending Long Island University with plans to pursue Veterinary Medicine and will continue to volunteer at Good Samaritan.

“Volunteering in the Gift Shop has helped to increase my confidence and sharpen my public speaking skills, said Ms. Hoerner. “It has been an amaz-ing experience.” She resides in Brightwaters.

Lindenhust High School graduate Davian Ramphal has contributed more than 115 hours of service in the hospi-

tal’s Ambulatory Surgery Unit. “Volunteering has taught me

to take pride in doing a good job, no matter the task,” said Mr. Ramphal. “This experience has helped me grow socially and I am looking forward to using these skills while pursu-ing a career in biomedical engineering at Northwestern University.”

Junior volunteers at Good Samaritan have the opportunity to enhance their personal devel-opment and learn skills while as-sisting the hospital in providing its important services to the community. Scholarship funds are provided by the

Central Council of the Guilds of Good Samaritan and through donations received at Good Samaritan’s Guild Thrift Shop, Gift Shop and Captree Café. The medical center has more than 200 active junior volunteers, who collectively contributed more than 3,800 hours in 2014. Between the ages of 15 and 18, they come from 25 different school districts in the vicinity of Good Samaritan Hospital. The program enables high school students to meet their communi-ty service requirements, as they participate in hospital events and assist various departments

throughout the facility.

Pictured (L-R): Junior Volunteer/ Scholarships Committee Co-chairs Ingrid DiGiovanna and Laurie Feldscher; Scholarship winners Chloe Brett Hoerner, Michelle Blum and Davian Ramphal; Central Council of the Guilds President Marie Nicharico and Good Samaritan Vice President of Human Resources Mark Boehrer.

advanced lung cancer patients treated with a new technique using intensity modulated radia-tion therapy (IMRT), may have reduced rates of esophageal pain, weight loss and lung toxicity,

which translates into improved survival. This technique, devel-oped at Good Samaritan, is cur-rently being tested in a national clinical trial in which the hospital will participate.

For more information on Good

Samaritan’s Radiation/Oncology

Services, call (631) 376-4444 or visit

good-samaritan-hospital.org/radia-

tion-oncology-center or scan this

QR code with your smartphone.

NEW TECHNIQUE IN TREATING CANCER ( CONTINUED FROM COVER)


P RISCILLA SCHLEGEL was worried about sustaining an injury

from a fall. Her balance can sometimes be unsteady. Otherwise, Ms. Schlegel is an active 75-year-old and wants to stay that way. She attended a free Fall Prevention Class offered by Good Samaritan Hospital’s Physical Therapy Department and saw the benefits right away.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), falls are the leading cause of both fatal and nonfatal injuries for those 65 years of age and over. Every 14 seconds, an older

adult is seen in an emergency department for a fall-related injury. The chances of falling and of being seriously injured in a fall increase with age.

“After participating in one of the fall prevention classes, I feel more confident in knowing what precautions to take to prevent an unex-pected and debilitating fall,” said Ms. Schlegel.

The class is offered on the second Friday of every month from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm at Good Samaritan’s Outpatient Rehabilitation Center, 560 Union Blvd., West Islip. Participants learn successful tips and

fall prevention strategies to help maintain independence. Topics include strength and balance exercises; fall hazards around the home and fall risks such as physi-cal challenges, improper footwear, medication safety and medical history.

“Falls are not a normal part of aging and the result-ing injuries can steal quality life from seniors and their families,” said Good Samari-tan’s Director of Rehabilita-tion Services Jill Bocchieri.

Studies show that a combination of interventions can significantly reduce falls among older adults.

EXPERTS RECOMMEND:

• A physical activity regimen with balance, strength training, and flexibility com-ponents.

• Consulting with a health professional about getting a fall risk assessment.

• Having medications reviewed periodically.

• Getting eyes checked annually.

• Making sure the home environment is safe and supportive.

• Having an annual hearing assessment.

For more information about

preventing falls or to register

for a class, please call (631)

376-4109 or visit good-samaritan-

hospital.org.

HOSPITAL OFFERS FALL PREVENTION CLASS

BOCES Students Donate Herb Planter to Enhance Flavor of MealsSTUDENTS FROM Eastern

Suffolk BOCES Outreach

House donated a planter to Good Samaritan

Hospital’s Nutrition and Food Services

Department. Fresh herbs will be planted by

the students and used to enhance the flavor

and presentation of the more than 1,200

meals prepared daily for patients, visitors

and staff at the hospital.

Outreach House provides education

designed to empower students through

academic and social growth. A group of

12 students worked together as a team in

the design and construction of the teak

planter.

Left to right: Good Samaritan Hospital AVP of Plant Engineering Richard Bie; Executive Chef John Vaeth; Director of Nutrition and Food Services Diane Carillo; Client Service Manager Edward Wienczorkowski; SVP of Administration Joseph Loiacono; BOCES students Jake Courtney, John Larson, Nick Ferrara, Thomas Connors, Melvin Whitehead, Jonathan Polo and Sean Rafferty; BOCES Eastern Suffolk Outreach House shop teacher John Meade; counselor Jeff Reh and Principal Susan Goltz.

13 WWW.GOOD-SAMARITAN-HOSPITAL.ORG

PLANT BASED DIETS FOR BEGINNERSURING THE summer months, farmers’ markets, home vegetable gardens, and seasonal produce inspire

people to eat more fruits and vegetables. The many benefits of following a plant based diet have contributed to its increasing popular-ity. However, deficiencies in key nutrients can arise if a plant based diet is not followed appropriately. Specific strategies can help prevent nutrient deficiencies and ease the transition to this lifestyle change.

When well planned, there are several categories of plant based diets that may be appropriate through all stages of life. All vege-tarian diets exclude “flesh foods” but differ in their exceptions. For example, ovo-vegetarian diets include eggs while lacto-ovo vegetarian diets include eggs and dairy products. Pesco-vegetarian diets include fish, eggs, and dairy products. Finally, vegan diets exclude all flesh foods and their products.

The factors that motivate an individual to follow a plant based diet include health, environmental, eco-nomic, ethical, and religious. Plant based diets may contribute to decreased risk of heart disease, and lower rates of LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, blood pressure, BMI, noninsulin-dependent diabetes, and cancer risk. Environmental factors include a diminished impact on climate change, air and water pollution.

Nutrients of potential concern when fol-lowing a plant based diet include protein, calcium, iron, zinc, essential fatty acids, iodine, Vitamin D, Vitamin B12, and choline. Many plant sources of protein are incom-plete proteins that are missing one or more of the nine essential amino acids. Complete

proteins can be built from the careful pairing of incomplete proteins. A milk product paired with a grain or legume, or a grain paired with a legume would form a complete protein. For example, cereal and milk, corn tortillas and refried beans, and a peanut butter sandwich are individually incomplete proteins which become complete when paired together. Additional sources of vegetarian proteins are lentils, soy, eggs, yogurt, and cheese. Consum-ing adequate amounts of calcium can be met by consuming fortified foods such as orange juice or almond milk in addition to many of the protein foods listed above.

Plants contain non-heme iron which has a significantly lower percent of absorption compared to heme iron. Furthermore, inhibi-tors of iron absorption (phytates, calcium, and polyphnols) and enhancers of iron absorption (Vitamin C, cast-iron pots) affect an individ-

ual’s iron status. Vegetarian sources of iron include fortified cereals,

bran, spinach, red kidney beans, tofu, and pumpkin seeds.

Zinc is usually adequate in vegetarian diets although

decreased absorption is related to the high acid content typical

of a plant based diet. Lentils, peanut butter, tofu, tempeh, mushrooms, and spinach contain high levels of zinc. It is important to consume plenty of anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids from vegetarian sources such as flaxseed, walnuts, canola oil, soy, almonds, olive oil, olives, and avocados due to the typical high intake of inflammatory omega-6 fatty acids in plant based diets. Iodine deficiency may develop if vegans substitute sea salt or kosher salt in place of iodized salt. Vegans are also at risk for choline, Vitamin D and Vitamin B12 deficiency if not supplemented or eaten adequately in the diet.

Lifestyle changes are always most effec-tive when the transition is made slowly and divided into several steps.

➜ First, identify plant based foods and meals that are already consumed on a regular basis. Such foods might include oatmeal, cereal, salad, soup, bean chili, or stuffed peppers. Another helpful tip is to only eat vegetarian before 6PM.

➜ Step two replaces favorite animal foods with soy based meat substitutes. Incorpo-rating nutritional yeast, tofu, and tempeh into meals also provides good sources of vital nutrients.

➜ The third step encourages beginners to try new plant based foods and meals. Ethnic staples found in Mexican, Chinese, Thai, and Japanese cuisine include many vegetarian dishes. Experimenting with new recipes found online and in vegetar-ian magazines can be helpful. Addition-ally, many families and restaurants have adopted the idea of “Meatless Monday.”

➜ The final step is to continuously evalu-ate for balance, variety, and moderation in the diet. This prevents falling into the trap of the “white flour and cheese” diet that includes the frequent consumption of pizza, macaroni and cheese, quesadillas, grilled cheese sandwiches, and junk food. A colorful diet can help to stay on track.

The most common reasons for adopting a plant based diet are for the potential health and environmental benefits. Despite the best intentions, nutrient deficiencies can develop and care must be taken to make sure all nutri-ents are consumed in adequate amounts. It is important to remember that lifestyle changes are most effective and successful when slow changes are made over time. A Registered Dietitian (RD) is a nutrition expert who can ensure that a plant based diet is being followed in a safe and healthy way by developing plans and strategies to meet individual goals.

D

by Kristen Donnelly, MS, RD, CDN, CNSC


KEEPING BONES HEALTHY INTO YOUR SENIOR YEARSOOD SAMARITAN HOS-PITAL recently partici-pated in American Bone Health’s 3rd Annual Free-

dom from Fractures™ Fracture Awareness Day. The event is to raise awareness about the risk of fractures and to help people keep their bones strong. Good Samaritan screened more than 35 individuals with support from physician Saila DeTore, DO, and Geriatric Fracture Coordinator Yorlet Torres, RN, as well as nursing and quality management staff and volunteers.

The national Freedom From Fractures™ movement raises awareness of the two mil-lion preventable fractures that occur every year. Trained peer educators screened older adults using American Bone Health’s FORE Fracture Risk Calculator™ to deter-mine their risk for having a fracture in the next 10 years and, based on the results, educate on how to reduce these risks. The educators spent 5-10 minutes with each individual, discussing steps for taking control of future bone health.

Participant Ann Gilroy had a feeling she might be at high risk for a fracture

since sustaining a femur fracture in Janu-ary 2014 at age 79. Says Ms. Gilroy, “To-day’s screening and counseling reminded me what I should do to keep my bones strong and healthy.”

Catholic Health Services (CHS) has partnered with Amgen, Inc., and An-them, Inc., with support from American Bone Health, to care for patients before, during and after a bone fracture and to improve the long-term health of fracture patients. The Post-Fracture Osteoporosis Education and Management (POEM) program strives to optimally diagnose and treat osteoporosis in patients follow-ing a low-trauma fracture.

Currently, at Good Samaritan, a dedicated orthopedic navigator helps guide patients through the continuum of care from their arrival to the hospital to their discharge and post-hospital care. The POEM program works with patients as fractures heal and encour-ages patients to work with their health care team to:• Assess bone health, by getting a bone

mineral density test, and identify risks for fracture, such as age, gender, family history, medical conditions and cur-rent medications.

• Take steps to prevent another fracture, including getting sufficient calcium and vitamin D, increase physical activ-ity, and take steps to prevent falls.

• Find the right treatment for bone health, if necessary.Good Samaritan is the first CHS hospi-

tal to launch the POEM program, which will be rolled out to other CHS facilities over the next year. For more information about Good Samari-

tan Hospital’s Geriatric Fracture Program, call

(631) 376-4444.

GLeft to Right: Saila DeTore, DO, Ann Gilroy, and Yorlet Torres, RN.

LETTERS OF GRATITUDEMany letters have been received acknowledging the staff at Good Sam for their commitment and compassion. The following are excerpts from some recent letters.

Every four months, my husband and

I come to Good Sam to have blood tests associated with diabetes and atrial fibrillation. Robert cares for us, and is always friendly and caring. He makes you feel comfort-able and is wonderful at his job.”

I can’t properly

express my gratitude to the staff in the ED on my most difficult day. My wife passed away with no pain, she was not anxious or afraid and she was treated with dignity.”

Each one in their own way played

a major role in my husband’s recovery. I don’t think people truly understand a nurse’s role in the care of critically ill pa-tients. The nurses devote con-siderable time to each patient to meet the many demands of the different illnesses.”

COMMUNITY CALENDAR


9/9 Wednesday • Noon

Good Samaritan University Community Lecture:

Aging Gracefully: Take the Right StepsSponsored by Futterman & Lanza, LLP

Babylon Public Library, 24 South Carll Ave.Free Blood Pressure screenings at 11:00 am

9/10 Thursday • 1 pm

Good Samaritan University West CampusCommunity Lecture:

Keep Your Keys: Tips for Staying Safe on the RoadsCopiague Memorial Library, 50 Deauville Blvd.Free Blood Pressure screenings at noon

9/16 Wednesday • 6 pm Good Samaritan University Community Lecture:

Food For Thought: Was it Something You Ate?Sponsored by Teacher’s Federal Credit Union

West Islip Fire Dept., 309 Union Blvd.

9/24 Thursday • 6:30 pm Good Samaritan University Community Lecture:

Women’s Wellness: Men’s Health UpdateSponsored by Law Office of Shannon Falcone-Macleod

LI Cancer Help & Wellness Center, 32 Park Ave., Bay Shore

9/28 Monday • 7 am – 7 pm

Good Samaritan Blood DrivePatio Café and Mobile Units

9/29 Tuesday • 10:30 am – 3 pm

Third Annual Theresa Patnode Santmann Heart and Soul Symposium: Prevention is the Best MedicineCaptain Bill’s Restaurant, 122 Ocean Ave., Bay Shore

9/30 Wednesday • 6:00 pm Good Samaritan University Com-munity Lecture:

Overcoming Back and Neck PainWest Islip Fire Dept, 309 Union Blvd. To register, call (631) 376-4444, visit good-samaritan-hospital.org/backpainlecture or scan this QR code with your smartphone.

10/1 Thursday • Noon Good Samaritan University Community Lecture:

Aging Gracefully: Exercise for Rheumatoid ArthritisSponsored by Futterman & Lanza, LLP

Bay Shore Brightwaters Library, 1 South Country Rd. Free Blood Pressure screenings at 11:00 am

10/14 Wednesday • 6:30 pm Good Samaritan University Community Lecture:

Women’s Wellness: Take the BREAST Care of YourselfSponsored by Teacher’s Federal Credit Union

LI Cancer Help & Wellness Center, 32 Park Ave., Bay Shore

10/21 Wednesday • 6:00 pm Good Samaritan University Community Lecture:

Food for Thought: Quick Meals for Your Busy FamilySponsored by TAC Graphics, Inc

West Islip Fire Dept, 309 Union Blvd.

10/27 Tuesday • 6:30 pm Good Samaritan University West Campus Community Lecture:

What’s in Your Genes?Sponsored by All Island Media

Lindenhurst Public Library, 1 Lee Ave.

10/28 Wednesday • 7 pm

NARCAN Training ClassFree Opioid overdose prevention program in collaboration with the Suffolk County Department of Health Services


11/3 Tuesday • Noon


Aging Gracefully: What’s New in Total Joint Replacement?Sponsored by Teacher’s Federal Credit Union

West Islip Public Library, 3 Higbie LaneFree Blood Pressure screenings at 11:00 am

11/4 Wednesday • 6 pm

Good Samaritan University West CampusCommunity Lecture:

Super Foods for a Super YouSponsored by Progressive Emergency Physicians

Amityville Public Library, 19 John Street

11/12 Thursday • 6:30 pm Good Samaritan University Community Lecture:

Women’s Wellness: Can’t Stomach the PainLI Cancer Help & Wellness Center, 32 Park Avenue, Bay Shore

11/19 Thursday • 6 pm


Food for Thought: Fad Diets & Food TrendsSponsored by Futterman & Lanza, LLP


All events are held at Good Samaritan, unless otherwise noted. For more information or to register for any of the events listed below, please call (631) 376-4444. ALL PROGRAMS ARE FREE EXCEPT WHERE NOTED.

In the past 5 years, cancer care has come a long way.

But you don’t have to.

American College of Radiology Breast Center of Excellence

GOOD SAMARITAN HOSPITAL IS A TOP CANCER CENTER ON LONG ISLAND AND IT’S RIGHT HERE IN YOUR BACKYARD.*

For referral to one of our doctors or a second opinion at Good Samaritan Hospital Medical Center

call (631) 376-4444 or visit cancercenteratgoodsam.org

Magnet

® Designated Nursing Staff

Commission on Cancer Three-Year Accreditation with Commendation in Eight Areas

Three-Year/Full Accreditation by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers

Outstanding Achievement Award from the Commission on Cancer for Four Consecutive Surveys

From cancer screenings, diagnosis and second opinions to patient navigation, treatment and support, Good Samaritan Hospital Medical Center’s level of quality and

compassion are unparalleled.

No surprise. That’s what happens when you put the most advanced minimally invasive technology available like the da Vinci Robotic Assisted Surgical System into the

hands of top-ranked surgeons who collaborate with skilled oncologists and a nationally recognized nursing staff. What’s more, we’re the only cancer center in Suffolk

County with the True Beam

�

linear accelerator, technology so fast, precise and targeted, it leaves everything else in the dust.

A great cancer center as close as your local hospital. You can’t beat that.

*Good Samaritan is the only Long Island hospital to achieve the American College of Surgeon’s Comission on Cancer’s Outstanding Achievement Award four consecutive survey cycles since the inception of the OAA program (2005, 2008, 2011, and 2014 surveys).

NON-PROFIT ORG.U.S. POSTAGE

PAIDHICKSVILLE, NY PERMIT No. 000







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A MEMER O CATHOLIC HEALTH SERICES O LONG ISLAND A … › sites › default › ... · Good News A MEMER O CATHOLIC HEALTH SERICES O LONG ISLAND A MAGNET® DESIGNATED HOSPITALfrom