Lexington Medical Center Heart Health Insert

Sunday, February 17, 2013 A Special Advertising Publication of The State Media Advertising Department and Lexington Medical Center

Between that day and the end of 2012, there were 146 open heart surgeries at Lexington Medical Center. The most common procedures were coronary artery bypass grafting and valve repairs or replacements.

In addition to Dr. Travis, the hospital’s heart surgery team includes physician assistant Victor Gomez; cardiovascular anesthesiolo-gists Dr. Virgil Kenneda and Dr. Patrick Sipe; certified registered nurse anesthetists Christa Collins, Judy Wolfe,

Amanda Baker and Kelly Metts; perfusionists led by Ty Walker; registered nurses Carol Antley, Richard O’Connor, Melanie Parilla and Mona Smith; surgical technologists Michelle McCarthy and Kristie Taylor; and Cardiovascular Operating Room Nurse Manager Meri Kinney.

“I enjoyed seeing a group of professionals come together to work toward a common goal,” Dr. Travis said. “And I’m so proud of how well they have done.”

Many of Lexington Medical Center’s heart surgery patients have also participated in cardiac rehabilitation. Patients work with staff members to develop a personalized wellness plan that helps them rebuild strength, endurance, emotional well-being and confidence.

“Cardiac rehab changes lives and saves lives,” said John Leech, Cardiac Rehabilitation manager at Lexington Medical Center.

And now, Lexington

Medical Center has added a second heart surgeon. Dr. Steven Marra comes to Lexington Cardiovascular Surgery after five years as medical director of Cardiothoracic Surgery at Rockingham Memorial Hospital in Harrisonburg, VA.

In addition, Lexington Medical Center will focus on growing the program’s technology and services. The hospital is now expanding electrophysiology, a cardiology specialty that focuses on the treatment of abnormal heart rhythms. That includes catheter ablations for the treatment of atrial fibrillation. And, in the future, the hospital will

provide minimally invasive aortic valve replacement in the future.

“We want to make sure we’re providing the best care with the latest techniques and state-of-the-art equipment,” said Lang Spotts, assistant vice president for Cardiovascular Administration at Lexington Medical Center.

That work extends into the community, with a robust heart education program and a strong resource for people who want to be involved in heart health. The goal is to deliver comprehensive cardiovascular care focused on unparalleled efficiency and excellent outcomes.

On March 28, 2012, Dr. Jeffrey Travis and his team made history when they performed the first open heart surgery at Lexington Medical Center.

The Beat Goes On… A Year of Complete Cardiac Care at Lexington Medical Center

Heart Health

EACh yEAr in SouTh CAroLinA*

————

9,000 people die from heart disease

————

2,000 people die from stroke

————

50,000 people are hospitalized

because of heart disease

————

14,000 people are treated for

stroke in hospitals

————Life expectancy

in the United States would rise

7 Yearsif all forms of major

cardiovascular disease were eliminated.

*Source: American Heart Association

Lexington Medical Center’s cardiac surgery team during open heart surgery.

SunDAy, FEbruAry 17, 2013 Heart Health 2

Susan Hurt, 61Triple Coronary Artery bypass and Aorta repair on June 29, 2012

if you look up “Southern belle” in the dictionary, you might find a picture of Susan hurt. A perfect hostess, she’s quick to offer you a cold drink; and more than once in your conversation, she’ll call you or someone else “honey.”

hurt cleans houses and offices for a living. She first recognized she had a problem when after work she was completely wiped out. her symptoms didn’t stop there.

“i felt a heavy weight in my chest. Every symptom you can have for having a heart attack and heart problems, i had it,” hurt says, shaking her head.

She went to see her cardiologist and underwent a battery of tests that often indicate whether someone has heart problems.

“i passed them with flying colors,” hurt says, but she was not convinced that she was out of

the woods. “i knew i couldn’t breathe.” And she knew heart disease runs in her family. hurt was advised to undergo a heart catheterization.

“i expected to come out and them say there is nothing wrong, or maybe another problem,” but instead doctors found that she had three blockages in her arteries. hurt says her doctor called Cardiovascular Surgeon Dr. Jeffrey Travis at Lexington Medical Center. Just hours later, she was being prepped for open heart surgery.

“Dr. Travis opened up my chest and found that my aorta had a hole in it. So i had a triple bypass and the aorta repaired, and when i woke up [after surgery], the first thing i said to my husband was, ‘i can breathe.’”

hurt had the surgery on Friday, June 29, 2012. She was released from the hospital on the Fourth of July.

“it has been a total miracle. When i first came home, all i wanted to do was sleep. i started each day doing more and more, and went back to work within two months.”

Walter Corley, 67Aortic Valve replacement on June 25, 2012

After 47 years of marriage, Walter and Ann Corley are one of those couples who can finish each other’s sentences.

“i’ve known her since she was 14 years old,” Mr. Corley says with a boyish grin.

“i was 19 when we got married,” Mrs. Corley says. “i can’t imagine life without him. We’ve been married all of our life.”

Perhaps the only thing that rivals their love for each other is their love for their only granddaughter, Taylor.

“She is our world,” the Corleys say in unison.it was out of love, Mr. Corley says, that

he decided not to tell his wife when he first discovered he had heart problems.

he didn’t want to worry her. Almost a year later, Mr. Corley discovered

that his heart condition had worsened. he asked his cardiologist if he had a blockage.

“he told me, ‘no, you have a bad aortic valve. if you don’t get if fixed, you’re liable to have a heart attack and die.’” Mr. Corley had to tell his wife.

“i said, ‘i’ve got something i need to tell you. i need to have open heart surgery.’”

“i said, ‘what!’” She was shocked. “That didn’t go over well,” Mr. Corley says with a chuckle. “That didn’t go over well at all.”

Mr. Corley says he knew right away that he wanted the surgery done at Lexington Medical Center. “i wanted my wife to be able to come over and feel comfortable. We live 15 minutes away.”

it was how he discovered the man who

would perform his surgery that is rather unconventional.

Mr. Corley says he clicked on the TV one night and there he was: cardiovascular surgeon Dr. Jeffrey Travis on a television commercial for Lexington Medical Center.

“i told my wife, ‘That is who i want to do my surgery. i don’t know why.’”

Mr. Corley’s operation was scheduled just days after his first meeting with Dr. Travis.

The Corleys were understandably fearful

of the unknown, but Mr. Corley says it was Dr. Travis who alleviated their concern the morning of surgery. Mr. Corley says Dr. Travis took his hand and said, “if y’all don’t mind, i’m going to say a prayer with you.”

“I told Ann it was like… Whoosh. I knew everything was fine. I knew everything was going to be okay,” he said.

Mr. Corley underwent open heart surgery on a Monday. one week after his surgery, he went home.

“i’m doing better every day.”he says the 36 sessions of cardiac

rehabilitation he did at Lexington Medical Center helped get him back to the things he loves doing, like tinkering in his wood shop and traveling.

“We like to get out and go.”Mrs. Corley shakes her head in agreement,

but she’s quick to add that there is one place she will no longer allow her husband to go without her.

“i try to go to every doctor appointment now. Even if he has a hangnail,” she says with a grin.

O P E N H E A R T S U R G E R Y PAT I E N T S T O R I E S

Walter Corley with wife Ann and granddaughter Taylor

Thump! Thump!Sweat furls on Jim Miller’s brow. his chest

draws in as he takes a deep breath. Crash! The sound of free weights slamming into

his bench press rack reverberates through his garage.

A 67-year-old body builder, retired Sergeant Major Miller says he prefers to work out at his Columbia home versus the confines of a gym.

Less than a year after having coronary artery bypass surgery and an aortic valve replacement

at Lexington Medical Center, this Columbia man is preparing for a weight-lifting show in Sumter.

“i really feel good,” Miller says exuberantly. “better than i have been in years.”

it wasn’t long ago that Miller says he started feeling pressure on his chest. he felt fatigued. A heart catheterization revealed Miller needed help.

“i never would have dreamed i’d have heart issues,” Miller says earnestly.

Why would he? This 30-year Army veteran made it out of

Vietnam after being shot twice. “i still have shrapnel in my face,” he said.now an roTC instructor for at-risk teens,

Miller says he has worked to stay fit all of his life. he’s eaten right. “i only drink water, no soft drinks, none of

that,” Miller says. When he discovered he needed surgery

for a congenital heart defect called a bicuspid aortic valve, Miller visited a number of facilities. he says he often left feeling like a number, like people were too busy to talk with him.

That all changed when he stopped at Lexington Medical Center and met Cardiovascular Surgeon Dr. Jeffrey Travis.

“Dr. Travis sat down with me, got out a pencil

and paper, and diagrammed for me what i’d be going through,” Miller says with a smile. “When i left him, i felt good. he explained it so well i felt i could do the operation.”

The personal care didn’t stop there. Miller says he brought his wife to Lexington Medical Center, too. “They had everybody on the team come to brief me. They came to us.”

Miller’s surgery was on a Monday. he walked out of the hospital on Friday.

And he hasn’t stopped since.

“I was expecting my whole life

to change with the surgery,” he

said. “I never thought I’d recover

this quickly.”

Miller is doing double workouts morning and night in preparation for his show. his exercise regimen includes 30 minutes of continuous crunches. he’s bench pressing more than 300 pounds.

Miller says he thanks God for his recovery and for putting him in the talented hands of Lexington Medical Center’s cardiovascular surgery team.

Sergeant Major Jim Miller, 67Coronary Artery bypass and Aortic Valve replacement on April 16, 2012

At Lexington Medical Center, physicians and staff care for many patients every day. They also understand that each patient is special and every story is different. Walter Corley, Susan hurt and James Miller share their heart stories with you.

From Their Hearts to Yours

Hurt says the heart surgery has changed her life completely. “I don’t know what God left me here for, what purpose. But I hope I can fulfill the gift that was given to me.”

Heart Health A Special Advertising Publication of The State Media Advertising Department and Lexington Medical Center 3

Lexington Cardiovascular Surgery proudly welcomes cardiothoracic surgeon Steven Marra, Md, FaCS, to their growing heart specialist team.

Dr. Marra is board certified in surgery and thoracic surgery, and is a former Medical Director of Cardiothoracic Surgery who has performed more than 900 cardiac procedures and thoracic cases since 2008. his expertise includes open heart surgery, valve repair and replacement, and minimally invasive thoracic surgery. Dr. Marra joins Dr. Jeffrey Travis as a welcome addition to the complete cardiac care program of the Lexington Medical heart Center.

Cardiothoracic surgeon joins Lexington Medical Center team.

2728 Sunset Blvd., Suite 101 West Columbia, SC 29169

(803) 936-7095

D r . S t e v e n M a r r a a n D D r . J e f f r e y t r av i SLexingtonCardiovascular.com

Accepting new pAtients.

A Lexington Medical Center Physician Practice

Monitoring and nursing in SiCu/CViCu Around-the-Clock Care

Lexington Medical Center’s SICU/CVICU has received the prestigious Gold Beacon Award for Excellence from the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses for outstanding patient care, outcomes and work environment. LMC was one of only 14 hospitals in the nation to receive this honor.

That’s why the specially trained nurses in the Surgical Intensive Care Unit/Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit (SICU/CVICU) at Lexington Medical Center provide continuous bedside care and monitoring after heart surgery.

Even as patients slowly wake up from surgery, a SICU/CVICU nurse is with them.

These nurses have decades of intensive care experience and assist during a patient’s recovery in SICU/CVICU. And they’re supported by Duke Medicine, one of the nation’s premier heart programs.

Through the hospital’s affiliation with Duke, SICU/CVICU nurses traveled to Durham, NC, to observe the flow of care for heart patients and shadowing cardiac nurses, learning about procedures for the safest

and best care possible — all before they treated their first patient at Lexington Medical Center.

Other health care professionals are on hand in SICU/CVICU, too. Respiratory therapists monitor patients’ pulmonary needs and cardiac rehabilitation specialists help patients start moving.

The care patients receive in SICU/CVICU helps them recover from heart surgery safely and quickly.

If surgery and immediate recovery go well, most tubes and special equipment are removed within the first 24 to 48 hours. Patients are normally transferred to a post-surgery nursing floor the day after surgery; however, they may need to stay in SICU/CVICU for several days, depending on the type of heart surgery and the time needed for recovery.

For a heart patient, what happens after surgery can be just as scary as surgery itself.

On the day of Lexington Medical Center’s

first open heart procedure in 2012, the

Chief of Cardiovascular and Thoracic

Surgery at Duke traveled to Lexington

Medical Center to observe the surgery.

A member of the Duke Heart Network

Clinical Support Team also spent the day

at the hospital to assist clinical staff as the

first patient arrived in the cardiovascular

intensive care unit after surgery.

Over the past year, Duke has

provided educational opportunities and

quality oversight for Lexington Medical

Center physicians and staff. Duke hosts

conferences to discuss common concerns

and best practices. Lexington Medical

Center’s cardiovascular team is also able

to consult with Duke physicians if needed.

And Duke physicians provide peer

review for cases.

As Lexington Medical Center

prepared to begin its open heart surgery

program, Duke helped the hospital set up

policies and procedures, train staff, and

recruit members for the cardiovascular

surgery team. Duke also assisted

Lexington Medical Center in setting up

its cardiovascular catheterization lab to

prepare for interventional procedures.

And Duke reviewed Lexington Medical

Center’s patient education materials and

conducted monthly site visits to review

progress in planning the open heart

surgery program.

The ability to provide a full range

of cardiovascular services was a goal of

Lexington Medical Center for years.

The hospital operates the second busiest

Emergency department in South Carolina,

treating more than 100,000 patients each

year. The hospital also operates two busy

catheterization labs.

The Duke Heart Center is a global

leader in advancing the care of people

with heart disease. As part of Duke

Medicine, which is also home to the Duke

Clinical Research Institute and the world’s

largest and oldest outcomes registry,

the Duke Databank for Cardiovascular

Disease, its accomplishments in the area of

cardiovascular care include medical firsts,

innovation, research and education. Duke

University Health System performs more

than 7,000 diagnostic and interventional

coronary catheterizations each year,

along with more than 1,000 open heart

surgeries, 115 lung transplants and more

than 60 heart transplants.

The Duke Heart Center has extensive

experience working with hospitals

throughout the Southeast to strengthen

and expand cardiac services at the local

level while providing access to Duke’s

highly specialized services.

Lexington Medical Heart Center Full of Benefits with Duke Medicine AffiliationThrough an affiliation with Duke Medicine, one of the top-ranked heart programs in the nation, patients at Lexington Medical Center are benefitting from Duke’s clinical expertise and services.

Lexington Medical Center’s Surgical Intensive Care unit


The Midlands Goes red for Heart Health

This month, Lexington Medical Center is partnering with the American Heart Association for a new heart disease prevention campaign and we’ve asked the Midlands business community to join us. The idea is for the Midlands to “go red” with information about cardiovascular disease, including heart attack and stroke, promoting heart health for every body.

More than 150 businesses

have signed up to decorate their storefronts with a kit provided by the hospital and AHA that includes window decorations, items for employees, giveaways and educational information about heart disease.

“Lexington Medical Center is proud to continue our partnership with our community and businesses to educate and raise awareness about cardiovascular disease,

and learn how we can impact those statistics,” said Barbara Willm, vice president of Community Relations at Lexington Medical Center.

Heart disease takes a life every 39 seconds — mothers, fathers, siblings, spouses and friends. And it’s not just a man’s disease — more women than men die of heart disease each year. Risk factors include excessive weight, high blood pressure and smoking.

If you’ve been shopping around town lately, you may have noticed storefronts decorated in red for an important cause — heart health.1 3out of

every

deathsin South Carolina is related to cardiovascular disease.

39Heart disease

takes a life every

SeCondS.

WomenMoRe

ThAn MEn die of heart disease

each year.

RISkSoMe

fACtoRSinclude excessive weight, high blood

pressure and smoking.

For a free calendar full

of heart health information,

visit LexMed.com.

Left to right: Dr. S. Stanley Juk Jr.; Dr. William D. brearley Jr.; Dr. Stephen E. Van horn Jr.; Dr. r. Taylor Williams; Dr. Michael C. roberts; Dr. robert M. Malanuk; Dr. Joseph J. Lawton iii; Dr. William W. brabham; Dr. Amy rawl Epps; Dr. richard E. umbach

Lexington Medical Center Cardiac Care Practices


Steven W. Marra, Md, FaCS, and Jeffrey Travis, Md

dedicated to providing high-quality cardiovascular care to our community, these Lexington Medical Center physician practices combine clinical expertise and state-of-the-art technologies with compassionate care.

2601 Laurel Street • Suite 260Columbia, SC 29204

(803) 744-4900

131 Sunset Court • West Columbia, SC 29169(803) 744-4940

1 The Commons • Lugoff, SC 29078(803) 729-4610

lmcLexingtonCardiology.com


(803) 936-7095 • LexingtonCardiovascular.com2728 Sunset Blvd., Suite 101 • West Columbia, SC 29169

(803) 778-1941 • SumterCardiology.com540 Physicians Lane • Sumter, SC 29150


C. West Jacocks IV, Md, fACC; W. Strat Stavrou, Md, fACC, fAHA; and Mitchell W. Jacocks, Md

Linda Ingle at Jo-Lin’s bridal is pleased to partner with Lexington Medical Center and the American Heart Association. Both her mother and father suffered from heart problems.

Harold Wray at Wray Volkswagon/Mazda partnered with Lexington Medical Center for Midlands Goes red to encourage those in the business and professional community to participate in a program with real results.

Teresa Addy: STroke SurVIVor

Teresa Addy will tell you that a stroke can happen to anyone — when you least expect it.

5Heart Health A Special Advertising Publication of The State Media Advertising Department and Lexington Medical Center

Stroke in South Carolina

Is it our love for fried foods? Lack of exercise or a limited access to doctors in rural areas?

Neurologist Dr. David Hammett of The Columbia Medical Group, a Lexington Medical Center physician practice, says all of the above.

Dr. Hammett said poor dietary habits, smoking, hypertension, high cholesterol, obesity and diabetes are all risk factors for stroke. Instead of making key lifestyle changes now to avoid a problem,“our culture is often one that waits for something to happen and then plays catch up,” Dr. Hammett said.

Stroke remains the third-leading cause of death in the United States, after heart disease and cancer. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, someone in the United States has a stroke every 40 seconds. Those numbers add up.

But according to Dr. Hammett, what people fail to realize when they hear the statistics is that “stroke is the greatest cause of permanent long-term disability — disability that often changes the rest of your life.”

Signs of stroke include sudden weakness, numbness, paralysis,

loss of vision, dizziness, imbalance, severe headache or loss of speech. “You know what you want to say, but you can’t say it. It comes out as gobbledygook,” Dr. Hammett said.

If you think you’re having a stroke, Dr. Hammett says get to an emergency room as quickly as you can.————————————

The good news is that medical facilities like Lexington Medical Center have treatments available that can help limit the size and severity of the most common kind of stroke, caused by a

blocked artery. ————————————

In fact, Lexington Medical Center is a Certified Primary Stroke Center. The hospital also received the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association’s Stroke Gold Plus Award.

Drugs called “clot busters,” or thrombolytics, can interrupt a stroke. The most well-known clot buster is called tPA and it’s known to be able to stop the stroke from progressing, and prevent disability and death. Dr.

Hammett says time is of the essence. “We usually say you have three hours from the time of onset to determine if a patient can be helped by a clot- busting drug.”

In other words, if you suddenly felt dizzy and weak, and had a hard time putting a sentence together at lunch, but wait until supper to get checked out, it’s often too late.

“There is so little time to re-establish blood supply,” said Dr. Hammett. “The portion of the brain affected by stroke — those cells are dead, they’re never going to recover. How well a patient recovers is determined by how well the undamaged part of the brain can take over the dead cell’s responsibilities.”

Dr. Hammett says, “Once you have a stroke, preventing the next one is the focus, when we should have been focusing on preventing the first one.”

It’s never too late to try and improve your health.

It’s your life. With determination

and hard work, South Carolinians can unbuckle the belt around our state and have more quality time doing the things we love.

Dr. David Hammett • The Columbia Medical Group

We live in a part of the country known as the Stroke Belt. For reasons no one completely understands, people in South Carolina and seven other Southern states are more likely to have a stroke and die from it than people living in other parts of the nation.

Stroke Symptoms: • Numbness or weakness of the face,

arm or leg, especially on one side of the body

• Confusion, trouble speaking or understanding

• Difficulty seeing with one or both eyes

• Severe headache with no known cause

• Trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination

If you or someone you know

experiences any of these stroke

symptoms, call 911

immediately.

Treatment within 60 minutes can

prevent disability.

Stroke is an emergency

Addy suffered a stroke in 1995 at the young age of 32. The Lexington County woman was attending a conference with her husband at The Grove Park inn in north Carolina.

After dinner one night, she went to her room with a terrible headache, thinking “My head is about to kill me.”

At first, she thought the headache was from the stress of traveling — especially leaving her three young children — ages five to eight — at home with family. She had no idea how serious her situation was becoming.

in the middle of the night, she woke up nauseated — and the terrible headache was still there. Soon, she passed out on the floor — with her husband sleeping nearby. he found her there the next morning.

Addy spent a week in intensive care at a hospital in Asheville, then she completed occupational and physical therapy back at home.

Looking back on that night, she remembers vomiting — then feeling the pressure in her head go away — right before she went unconscious. Doctors later told her that may have been a blood vessel in her head rupturing.

The stroke affected the left side of

Addy’s body — and 18 years later, she still feels some effects.

“Today, when i get really tired, my speech is slurred by the end of the day,” she said.

Doctors told Addy her main risk factor for stroke was high blood pressure. Today, she takes blood pressure medication.

“As women, we put ourselves on the back burner because we’re so concerned about our children — but taking care of ourselves is the best thing we can do for our children,” she said. “Women do not need to neglect themselves. if you think something is wrong, have it looked at.”

TereSa addy

teresa Addy’s family business, Craig Reagin Clothiers in Lexington, is

participating in the Midlands Goes Red with Lexington Medical Center

this month. teresa works in the store with her husband and three sons.

To keepyour HearT HeaLTHy:——————————Don’t smoke——————————Maintain a healthy weight——————————Exercise regularly——————————Eat healthy foods——————————Manage your blood pressure——————————Take charge of cholesterol——————————Keep blood sugar in check


SCrEEninGS inCLuDE:• Blood Pressure Assessment

• Lipid Profile (Total Cholesterol, hDL,

LDL and Triglycerides) for coronary

heart disease risk

• Glucose (blood level) screening for

risk of developing diabetes

• Iron Profile (iron and iron binding

capacity) for iron deficiency, anemia

and iron overload disorders or

hemochromatosis

• PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen)

test for prostate cancer

Some of these screenings require a

12-hour fast prior to the time of the

health screening. Determined by

a simple blood test, the results of

each component of your screening

are mailed confidentially, along with

instructions for understanding the

screening results. When needed,

clinicians provide follow-up

recommendations to ensure that

anyone with a health concern is

offered resources for future prevention

or further diagnosis and treatment.

KnoW your nuMbErS—————— blood pressure:

LeSS THan

120/80 ——————Total Cholesterol:

LeSS THan

180——————LdL Cholesterol:

LeSS THan

130 or LeSS THan

100if you have other risk

factors

——————HdL Cholesterol:

More THan

60 optimal

————LeSS THan

50is a risk for women

————LeSS THan

40is a risk for men

——————

Lexington Medical Center is committed to improving the health of our community through the early detection and diagnosis of disease and illness. one way is through the numerous health care assessments and screenings offered throughout the year to area businesses, churches, schools and other organizations as a free service to our community.

For InForMaTIon or To SCHeduLe Free HeaLTH Care SCreenInGS For your orGanIzaTIon, CaLL LexInGTon MedICaL CenTer CoMMunITy ouTreaCH aT (803) 936-8850.

free Health Screenings Available to Community

Lexington Cardiology proudly welcomes William d. brearley Jr., Md.A graduate of the Medical university of South Carolina in Charleston, Dr. brearley completed his

internship and residency at Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte, nC, followed by fellowships

in cardiovascular disease and interventional cardiology at the university of Florida in Gainesville.

Dr. brearley, who is board certified in internal medicine and cardiovascular disease, has been

published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, the International Journal of

Cardiology and the Journal of Electrocardiology.

Listen to dr. Brearley speak at a free Physician Lecture Series on february 25th at 6:00 p.m. in the Lexington Medical Park 1 Auditorium. topic: When Seconds Count — Protocols for treatment of Acute Heart Attack

1 The Commons • Lugoff, SC 29078 • (803) 729-4610

131 Sunset Court • West Columbia, SC 29169 • (803) 744-4940

2601 Laurel St., Suite 260 • Columbia, SC 29204 • (803) 744-4900



A c c e p t i n g n e w p A t i e n t s

Diet for a Healthy Heart

Changing the way you eat is an important step to reduce your risk of heart disease.

Eating a healthy diet can contribute to your heart health by:• providing you with energy;• reducing high blood lipid levels;• controlling high blood pressure;• reducing inflammation in the coronary arteries;• taking off extra pounds.

Welcome to the Mediterranean Diet Pyramid, which is designed to help manage coronary artery disease and improve your overall health.

The majority of the pyramid is made up of plant products in order to increase fiber and decrease dietary cholesterol and saturated fat.

Vegetables, whole grains and fruit contribute fiber and provide a variety of phytochemicals (plant nutrients), vitamins and minerals.

Legumes (bean, lentils, peas) are a major source of soluble fiber and also contain protein. Soy products are another major contributor of plant protein.

Animal products are limited because they are the only source of dietary cholesterol and the main source of saturated fat. Healthy animal products include fish, skinless poultry, egg whites, low-nonfat dairy and lean meats.

The pyramid recommends incorporating fats that would be liquid at room temperature, especially olive oil, along with nuts, seeds and avocado. These provide beneficial fats.

The pyramid also recommends decreasing the use of sugar, salt and refined white-flour products.

There is an emphasis on omitting fats that are solid at room temperature. Solid fats contain the undesirable saturated and trans fats, which contribute to the progression of coronary artery disease.

Revamping YouR Diet… Meats and SweetsLess often

WineIn moderation

DrinkWater

Poultry and EggsModerate portions, every two days or weekly

Cheese and YogurtModerate portions, daily to weekly

Fish and SeafoodOften, at least two times per week

Fruit, Vegetables, Grains (mostly whole), Olive Oil,

Beans, Nuts, Legumes and Seeds, Herbs

and SpicesBase every meal

on these foods

Be Physically Active; Enjoy Meals with Others

Weight loss of only 10 percent of your body weight may improve many problems associated with being overweight, such as high blood pressure and diabetes.

Even a smaller weight loss can make a difference.Health Benefits of Weight Loss

7Heart Health A Special Advertising Publication of The State Media Advertising Department and Lexington Medical Center

Ask theDoctor

Why Should I be Concerned About Cholesterol? High cholesterol levels are strongly associated with atherosclerosis, which is the leading cause of heart attacks, stroke and peripheral vascular disease.

What’s the Difference Between “Good” and “Bad” Cholesterol? Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is often called “bad cholesterol.” Too much LDL causes plaque to form on artery walls. High-density lipoprotein (HDL) carries cholesterol from your cells back to your liver, where it can be eliminated from your body. HDL is known as “good cholesterol” because high levels may lower your risk for heart disease.

What About Triglycerides? Triglycerides are the main form of fat in the body. High triglyceride levels may lead to heart disease, especially in people with low levels of “good” cholesterol and high levels of “bad” cholesterol, and those with type 2 diabetes.

Can I Lower My Risk for Heart Disease if I Lower My Cholesterol? Yes! Every 1% decrease in LDL results in a 1% decrease in cardiovascular effects.

What Makes Cholesterol Levels Go Up? Cholesterol levels vary with diet and activity levels. Genetics also play a significant role in lipid levels.

What Can I Do to Lower My Cholesterol Levels? Diet and exercise are key components of lipid control. Consider other treatable risk factors, such as diabetes, obesity, hypertension and tobacco use.

At What Age Should I Begin Having My Cholesterol Checked? Recommendations vary from pediatric testing in high-risk individuals to screening in young adulthood. Repeat screening should be considered periodically as levels tend to increase with age.

The Good, the Bad and the Triglyceride

Under Pressure: the Highs and Lows of Blood Pressure

Mitchell W. Jacocks, MD • Sumter Cardiology

William D. Brearley Jr., MD • Lexington Cardiology

According to Dr. Mitchell Jacocks, a cardiologist at Sumter Cardiology, a Lexington Medical Center physician practice, keeping cholesterol levels healthy is a great way to be heart smart. But understanding cholesterol isn’t easy, because not all of it is bad for you.

Dr. William Brearley is a cardiologist at Lexington Cardiology, a Lexington Medical Center physician practice.

Red blood cellsin healthy artery

What is Blood Pressure? Blood pressure represents the amount of force created by blood pushing against artery walls.

Why is High Blood Pressure Dangerous? High blood pressure increases the risk of heart attack, arrhythmia and stroke. It can also cause the heart to pump harder to circulate blood, which can lead to congestive heart failure.

What Do Each of the Numbers Mean? The top number is systolic pressure — the amount of pressure that blood exerts on vessels while the heart is contracting. The bottom number is diastolic pressure — the amount of pressure while the heart is relaxed.

How Can People Prevent Blood Pressure Complications? Have your blood pressure checked regularly, exercise, eat a healthy diet and minimize stress.

Renovated Facility Helps to Recover Lives

In addition to its new design, Lexington Medical Center installed special athletic flooring, a walking track and state-of-the-art exercise equipment for Cardiac Rehabilitation. Other updates included several large flat-screen televisions and a specially designed ECG telemetry/database system.

Renovating Cardiac Rehabilitation was important to the hospital. Research has shown that cardiac rehab participants have a 34–46% reduced rate of death over five years, compared to those who choose not to participate in cardiac rehab. After 12 weeks of rehabilitation, many patients say they feel 10–15 years younger and have more strength and energy.

Lexington Medical Center Cardiac Rehabilitation has two convenient locations in West Columbia and Lexington to better serve the community.

Lexington Medical Center’s Cardiac Rehabilitation has helped patients for more than 20 years. And in 2012, every Cardiac Rehabilitation participant began his or her road to recovery at a completely renovated facility.

2720 Sunset Blvd. • West Columbia, SC 29169 • (803) 791-2621

811 West Main St. • Lexington, SC 29072 • (803) 358-6180

Lexington Medical Center’s Cardiac Rehabilitation is a 12-week comprehensive program of supervised exercise, education and risk-factor modification. Designed to help patients fully recover from a heart attack, stent procedure or open heart surgery, participation also reduces the likelihood of another heart incident.

you need to eat properly, exercise regularly, get regular medical check ups and get a good night’s sleep. We’re proud to have five board-certified physicians with specialized training in sleep medicine and diagnostics at Lexington Sleep Solutions.

With an individualized treatment plan for insomnia, apnea and other disorders, you can return to sleep-filled nights and regain your health.

Many things can be done to

maintain a healthy heart

lexingtonsleepsolutions.com(803) 791-2683

Clarence e. Coker III, Md; Sarkis S. derderian, do; Mohamed S. Soliman, Md; M. Christopher Marshall, Md; Paul M. Kirschenfeld, Md

“it got to the point that i didn’t care

anymore,” he said.

A visit to baumgardner’s primary

care physician revealed he had

many heart disease risk factors: high

blood pressure, high cholesterol and

diabetes. he was taking 14 pills a

day. The doctor expressed grave

concerns about baumgardner’s

declining health and weight gain.

“i believe i would have been dead

in a few years,” he said.

And that scared baumgardner,

age 53, into getting some help.

“it was like a spoonful of caster

oil,” he said. “i didn’t like it, but i had

to swallow it.”

The doctor referred baumgardner

to the South Carolina obesity

Surgery Center at Lexington Medical

Center, where he had a consultation

with Dr. Marc Antonetti.

“dr. Antonetti told me, ‘If

you don’t do something,

I don’t expect you to live

more than five years. Your

health issues are so bad,

they will kill you!’”

That thought was devastating.

baumgardner, a Lexington County

Sheriff’s Department detective, has

been married to his wife Ellen for

nearly 30 years. They have two sons

who serve in the South Carolina

Army national Guard.

baumgardner had gastric bypass

surgery at Lexington Medical Center

in november 2011. he lost 80

pounds in six months. he eats a

strict, protein-based diet, cutting out

as much sugar as possible. he also

walks two to three miles a day.

“Food is not the most important

thing to me now. before, i was

always thinking of food,” he said.

“i used to live to eat — now i eat

to live.”

he credits the surgery as a tool

that gave him the chance to survive.

he no longer needs medicine

for high blood pressure, high

cholesterol or diabetes. Losing

weight has reduced his heart

disease risks significantly.

Today, baumgardner weighs

228 pounds. he has lost a total of

162 pounds.

“it’s a second lease on life,”

he said.


People who are overweight or suffer from obesity are more likely to develop forms of heart disease, such as heart attack, congestive heart failure, sudden cardiac death, angina (chest pain) and abnormal heart rhythm, even if they have no other heart disease risk factors. The more overweight a person is, the more likely he or she is to develop heart disease.

Patients who are overweight or obese are more likely to have high blood pressure, diabetes, high levels of triglycerides (a type of fat found in the blood) and LDL cholesterol (a

fat-like substance often called “bad cholesterol”), and low levels of HDL cholesterol (“good cholesterol”).These are all risk factors for heart disease and stroke. In addition, people with more body fat have higher blood levels of substances that cause inflammation. Inflammation in blood vessels and throughout the body may increase the risk for heart disease.

Many medical studies have shown that obesity creates a larger blood volume than normal and increases the amount of resistance in blood vessels. This results in hypertension, or high

blood pressure. In fact, hypertension is approximately three times more common in obese than normal-weight persons.

In addition, obesity induces a high secretion of insulin in the blood, which results in many changes in the body:• thickening of the vessels, which

increases their rigidity, thus increasing blood pressure;

• increases cardiac output, because the secretion of adrenalin increases;

• induces the reabsorption of water and salt by the kidney, which increases the blood volume and thus increases blood pressure;

• over-sensitivity to sodium, which is known to increase the rigidity of blood vessels.

After some time, an obese person will develop a natural resistance to insulin, which will lead the body to synthetize more and raise blood pressure by way of the mechanisms described above.

Overweight patients are also more likely than lean patients to develop type 2 diabetes, and the risk of developing diabetes increases as BMI increases. Fat, especially abdominal fat, may cause a condition called insulin resistance. This occurs when insulin cannot get into cells to lower the amount of glucose, or sugar, found in the blood. When the body senses that there is too much glucose in the blood, the pancreas produces more insulin, which results in high levels of both glucose and insulin in the blood. While all this insulin may eventually lower blood glucose levels to normal, it may also damage the inner linings of the arteries and trigger other changes in body chemistry that encourage heart disease.

Together, insulin resistance and hyperinsulinemia (high blood levels of insulin) are associated with a cluster of abnormalities collectively

known as metabolic syndrome. Those abnormalities include obesity, high blood pressure, high triglycerides and decreased levels of HDL (good) cholesterol. Metabolic syndrome has been shown to indicate a predisposition to diabetes and heart disease.

In general, the risk of death increases as the patient’s level of obesity increases. A BMI above 32 has been associated with a doubled mortality rate among women over a 16-year period. On average, obesity reduces life expectancy by six to seven years, a BMI of 30–35 reduces life expectancy by two to four years, while severe obesity, a BMI >40, reduces life expectancy by 10 years. According to the National Institute of Health, in one 14-year prospective study, middle-age women with a BMI >23 but <25 had a 50% increase in risk of non-fatal or fatal coronary heart disease, and men age 40 to 65 years with a BMI >25 but <29 had a 72% increased risk.

The good news is that losing a small amount of weight can reduce your chances of developing heart disease or a stroke. If you are overweight, reducing your weight by 5–10% is proven to decrease your chance of developing heart disease. Small amounts of weight loss and a lower sodium diet can lead to significant reductions in blood pressure. The risk of developing type 2 diabetes also goes down with weight loss.

Obesity and Heart DiseaseMarc Antonetti, MD, FACS • South Carolina Obesity Surgery Center

A person is considered obese if he or she weighs at least 20% more than the maximum healthy weight for his or her height.

A quick way to assess weight is to use the Body Mass Index (BMI). That’s a measure of body fat based on height and weight that applies for adult men and women, and can be calculated using the BMI table below:

10030.528.126.024.122.420.919.518.317.216.115.214.313.612.812.211.611.010.510.0

11033.630.928.626.524.723.021.520.118.917.816.715.814.914.113.412.712.111.511.0

12036.633.731.228.926.925.123.421.920.619.418.217.216.315.414.613.913.212.512.0

13039.736.633.831.329.127.225.423.822.321.019.818.717.616.715.815.014.313.613.0

14042.739.436.433.831.429.327.325.624.022.621.320.119.018.017.016.215.414.613.9

15045.842.239.036.233.631.329.327.425.724.222.821.520.319.318.317.316.515.714.9

16048.845.041.638.635.933.431.229.327.525.824.323.021.720.519.518.517.616.715.9

17051.947.844.241.038.135.533.231.129.227.425.824.423.121.820.719.618.717.816.9

18054.950.646.843.440.437.635.232.930.929.027.425.824.423.121.920.819.818.817.9

19058.053.449.445.842.639.737.134.732.630.728.927.325.824.423.122.020.919.918.9

20061.056.252.048.244.841.839.136.634.332.330.428.727.125.724.323.122.020.919.9

21064.159.154.650.647.143.941.038.436.033.931.930.128.527.025.624.323.122.020.9

22067.161.957.253.049.346.043.040237.835.533.431.629.828.226.825.424.223.021.9

23070.264.759.855.451.648.144.942.139.537.135.033.031.229.528.026.625.324.022.9

24073.267.562.457.953.850.246.943.941.238.736.534.432.530.829.227.726.425.123.9

25076.370.365.060.356.052.248.845.742.940.338.035.933.932.130.428.927.526.124.9

WEIGHT IN POUNDS

HEI

GH

T IN

FEE

T A

ND

INCH

ES

Underweight Normal Overweight Obese

STEP 1: Calculate your current bMi based on your height and weight, using the table above.

STEP 2: Determine your current bMi:

<18.5 underweight 18.5–24.5 normal 25.0–29.9 overweight 30.0–39.9 obese >40.0 Severely obese

STEP 3: A normal bMi range is 18.5–24.9. To determine the normal weight range for your height:

• refer back to the BMI table in step 1;

• locate the column representing your height;

• find the numbers in your height column ranging from 18 to 25;

• look to the weight columns highlighted in green to find your normal weight range.

Marc antonetti, Md, FaCS

Losing Weight and Gaining Heart HealthAt 6'1", Stephen baumgardner weighed 390 pounds. years of indulging in desserts, pies, pasta and sugary drinks had caught up with him. his shirt size was a 4X. he couldn’t walk up stairs. At one point, he was gaining weight so fast, he was buying larger clothes every two months.

Stephen baumgardner, 228 pounds, 2013

Stephen baumgardner, 390 pounds, 2011


It’s Electric WitH eLectRopHYsioLogYWilliam W. Brabham, MD • Lexington Cardiology

If there is a problem with your heart’s electrical system, blood flow can be disrupted and lead to health problems such as arrhythmias, palpitations and even stroke.

As an electrophysiologist at Lexington Cardiology, William W. Brabham, MD, specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of arrhythmias, or abnormal heart rhythms.

“Patients with symptoms of arrhythmias, such as irregular heart beat, palpitations, light-headedness or passing out, are candidates for electrophysiology testing. While not all patients with arrhythmias require invasive therapy, we can review available options to determine the best strategy for each patient,” said Dr. Brabham.

Electrophysiology (EP) studies are new to Lexington Medical

Center’s complete cardiac care program. During an EP study, an electrophysiologist positions catheters in the heart to diagnose arrhythmias.

“Cardiac arrhythmias are very common, especially in the aging population of South Carolina. But these illnesses are treatable and can be curable when using newer techniques

and technology. Atrial fibrillation, the most common arrhythmia in adults, is now potentially curable with catheter ablation,” said Dr. Brabham.

Ablation utilizes a catheter todeliver radiofrequency or an alternative energy source to burn cardiac tissue that causes arrhythmias. If a patient needs to have this

procedure, it is performed in conjunction with an EP study.

EP may also involve the treatment of heart problems including insertion of pacemakers or other device-based therapies to help your heart run properly.

“Electrophysiology is an essential component of complete cardiovascular care that enables Lexington Medical Center to provide a new dimension of arrhythmia management for patients in Lexington and our surrounding communities,” he said.

According to Dr. Brabham, electrophysiology has grown as a specialty due to advances in understanding cardiac arrhythmias and improvements in techniques and technology. “As a result, outcomes following these procedures are better than ever before.”

did you know that your heart has an electrical system? It does!

Your heart’s electrical system creates the signals that tell it when to beat. And your heartbeat is what pumps blood throughout your body, bringing oxygen and other nutrients to help it function properly.

These children are at risk for high blood pressure, diabetes and the beginning signs of coronary artery disease.

Dr. Lillie Bates is a pediatrician with Lexington Pediatric Practice, a Lexington Medical Center physician practice.

“When I was in my medical residency 20 years ago, it was very uncommon to see a child with adult-type diabetes,” she said. “Now, it’s not unusual at all. The way your body processes calories and food changes with extra weight, causing the beginning of diabetes.”

High blood pressure in children is also an emerging problem.

Children should gain only about 3 to 5 pounds per year. But pediatricians are also performing more testing for high blood pressure and cholesterol in young children because of weight issues.

—————————————————

According to Dr. Bates, even children as young as age 10 may show the early signs of heart disease.—————————————————

Lexington Pediatric Practice works to identify children headed for problems with weight by stressing the importance of annual well-checkups and tracking children on growth charts.

They also recommend the right balance of nutrition and activities.

Nutrition begins with breastfeeding babies. Studies show breast milk provides the best fat/protein balance for the first year of life.

Some pediatricians say a breastfed baby is also less likely to be overfed than a bottle-fed baby, setting a standard for eating proper portions of food in life.

When children move to table food, the nutrition guidelines in the chart below should be followed.

Go. Slow. Whoa! Lillian Bates, MD • Lexington Pediatric Practice

One of every three American children is overweight or obese, according to statistics from the American Heart Association. That’s nearly triple the rate from 1963.

Raising HeaLtHY cHiLDRen

activitY guiDeLinesDr. Bates recommends 60 minutes of physical activity each day, but it does not have to be all at the same time.

“Jump rope, dance to your favorite songs, walk the dog or take a walk with family,” she said.

Pediatricians also advise two hours or less of screen time each day, unless it’s homework-related.

“Twenty years ago, there were fewer gaming systems,” Dr. Bates said. “So children were more likely to be running around and playing outside.”

And doctors say no sugar-sweetened or sports drinks, except after intense exercise or activity. In that case, a drink that will help to replace electrolytes is okay.

The right amount of sleep also affects your metabolism. Children need 7 to 8 hours per night, with more recommended for pre-schoolers and teenagers.

“Eat right, exercise and sleep,” Dr. Bates said. “There are no shortcuts.”

Ready. Set. Go!

LIMIT porTIon SIze!

SloweaT oFTen!

GoFish and seafood, baked or broiled

beef–sirloin, tenderloin

Skinless chicken breast

Ground beef (extra lean)

Lean deli meat

Ground turkey breast

barley

rolled oats

Wild and brown rice

Whole wheat pasta

Fresh fruits and vegetables (5 servings per day)

Skim milk

Water

Eggs

Ground beef (lean)

Turkey bacon

Lean turkey dogs or lean hot dogs

Corn

Tortillas

Macaroni

Spaghetti

Sauces with lean meat or low-fat cheese

aVoId!

WhoaFatty or fried meats

Ground beef (more than 10% fat)

regular hot dogs

bologna

regular bacon

ribs

White flour products

White rice

Potatoes

Macaroni and cheese

Sauces with added sugar

Vegetables prepared with fatback, bacon grease or butter

VaSCuLar DiSeaSe:

the Silent Killer

are You at risk?• Do you have hypertension, high cholesterol or

a family history of vascular disease?

• Are you diabetic or a current or past smoker?

if so, you are at risk for vascular disease.


146 North Hospital Drive, Suite 310 • West Columbia, SC 29169

SouthernSurgical.com

Southern Surgical

Group offers accurate

and affordable vascular

screening exams for carotid

artery disease, abdominal

aortic aneurysm and

ankle-brachial index (Abi).

Performed by registered

sonographers in a nationally

accredited lab, all screening

results are read by the

experienced vascular

surgeons at Southern

Surgical Group.

Call (803) 936-8901 to schedule your appointment.

March 18, 2013—————April 4, 2013—————May 2, 2013—————June 25, 2013

———————

SCreening DateS

individual screenings

$50

All three screenings

$125


What is peripheral vascular disease?Peripheral vascular disease (PVD) describes diseases of the blood vessels. Blood vessels consist of arteries, which carry oxygen-rich blood to all of the body, and veins, which return blood back to the heart. PVD commonly appears as carotid artery disease, peripheral artery disease (PAD), and aneurysms of the abdominal or thoracic aorta (AAA). According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, cardiovascular disease accounts for more than 1/3 of all deaths in the United States.

Why is PVD called “The Silent Killer?”Sometimes people who have potentially threatening vascular disease are not aware of its presence because warning symptoms have not yet developed. Unfortunately, these conditions can lead to stroke, pain and poor quality of life, loss of limb, and even death. Thankfully, when identified early, many of these

conditions can be treatable. One easy way to detect these conditions is through a vascular screening.

What is a Vascular Screening?A vascular screening is a short, painless, non-invasive ultrasound exam that is used as a method to detect the presence of potentially serious vascular disease in patients with risk factors. During the exam, sonographers obtain an ultrasound of the area of the body being checked and the patient’s blood pressure. Images of the patient’s anatomy as well as blood pressure readings are viewed to check for evidence of disease. Southern Surgical Group offers screenings for carotid artery disease, peripheral artery disease and abdominal aortic aneurysm.

What happens if my screening shows vascular disease?If significant disease or symptoms are detected, we will offer you a complete ultrasound to determine the extent and severity of the condition. One of our board-certified vascular surgeons will also be available to coordinate your care with

your primary care provider. Depending on the severity of disease, surgical intervention may be necessary.

For all screenings, we will send a copy of your screening results to you and your primary care provider. You will also be provided with information on reducing any possible risk factors for carotid artery disease, AAA or PAD. Your primary care provider may recommend a follow-up visit based on your results.

Why should I come to Southern Surgical Group for my screening?For more than a decade, Southern Surgical Group has diagnosed and provided surgical intervention for vascular disease. Leading the way in minimally invasive techniques, we boast success rates for vascular interventions better than the national average.

Screenings are performed in our accredited vascular lab, which is staffed with registered vascular sonographers who use the most advanced equipment.

Experienced staff alongside vascular surgical experts mean a high-quality screening and immediate care if anything is found. This combination is the key to detecting — and combating — this silent killer.

For more information on vascular screenings, visit SouthernSurgical.com.

Dr. Bill Moore • Southern Surgical Group at Lexington Medical Center

Detecting a Silent Killer

Do you have high cholesterol or blood pressure? Do you smoke? Do you have diabetes or a family history of stroke, heart attack or aneurysm? If you are older than 50 and answered yes to any of these questions, you are at a higher risk for peripheral vascular disease.

Many people are at risk for vascular disease; however, the threat is greatest in patients older than 50 years of age with the following risk factors:• Smoking• High cholesterol• High blood pressure• Diabetes• Family history of stroke,

heart attack or aneurysm

Dr. brabham, the top graduate of

his class at the Medical university

of South Carolina, earned board

certification in internal medicine

at Duke university Medical Center

in Durham, nC, and returned to

MuSC to complete fellowships

in cardiovascular disease and

cardiac electrophysiology.

A member of the American

College of Cardiology and

American Medical Association,

Dr. brabham proudly joins the

physicians of the Lexington

Medical Center network of Care.

1 The Commons • Lugoff, SC 29078 • (803) 729-4610131 Sunset Court • West Columbia, SC 29169 • (803) 744-4940

2601 Laurel St., Suite 260 • Columbia, SC 29204 • (803) 744-4900



A c c e p t i n g n e w p A t i e n t s

Lexington Cardiology welcomes electrophysiologist William Brabham, Md, to its growing team of heart specialists.

new heart specialist brings even more expertise to

Lexington Medical Center.


A Different Stroke

While preparing for work, Flitter took one last glance at her reflection in her bedroom mirror when she saw a swirl of color and her face began to droop. “I felt no pain or fear. I was convinced that it must be a Monday morning moment,” she said. In seconds, her left side began to draw inward.

Flitter’s family physician admitted her to HealthSouth after more testing revealed she had suffered a right parietal stroke. The magnitude was severe. “I was no longer available as the wife and mother that my husband and

son knew.” Her health care team later told her that no one would offer any long-term recovery prognosis because of the severity and difficulty of rehabilitation from this type of brain injury.

It was with this prognosis that Flitter started her life over. She learned how to walk, talk and dress herself again. “I began my new life with a wheelchair and the alphabet.”

After completing 13 grueling months of outpatient rehabilitation, including speech and occupational therapy, Flitter had no direction for additional rehab. “I had surpassed all charts for this type of stroke and there was no facility at the time who knew what to do with me. We were fortunate to be guided to Cardiac Rehab at Lexington Medical Center, where I again surpassed all levels.”

Then Cardiac Rehab directed her to Health Directions, Lexington Medical Center’s wellness facility. Using a medical-based model for its programs and services, Health Directions is staffed by trained health

and wellness instructors who are skilled in helping people recover from a variety of health conditions.

When she first arrived at Health Directions, Flitter could only walk by dragging her left foot. She spoke with an impediment, couldn’t tell time and had no concept of sequencing. Essentially, she was starting at a pre-kindergarten learning level.

“When I got to Health Directions, I wanted to regain all that I could. The staff was willing to listen, learn and allow me, along with my physicians, to forge new ground. Each trainer that I worked with had their own expertise; everyone worked together.”

Now 63 years young, people can’t tell that Flitter had a massive stroke by looking at her. Even when she speaks,

most people can’t tell. Her trainers at Health Directions have taught her how to spell, count, distinguish left from right and improve her mobility. “I am blessed that they were sent to me.”

In addition to her rehabilitation, Flitter attributes her miraculous story to her organic diet, Christian faith, and the support and affection of her husband and son. “I am the product of diligence, desire and determination.”

Early one morning in October of 2000, Catherine Flitter, a West Columbia resident and classroom instructor with Lexington School District 2, suddenly had her world turned upside down.

Health Directions has moved to a new 12,000-square-foot location at 3239 Sunset Boulevard in West Columbia! For more information, visit lmcHealthDirections.com.

Get Motivated. Get Moving. Get healthy.And We Can Help.

We’re Health directions — the fitness and wellness division of Lexington

Medical Center. We promote healthy lifestyles through our programs and

services that range from fitness classes and personal training to annual

health screenings and monthly nutritionist visits. our team is educated

and experienced. our atmosphere is low-key and welcoming. And our

goal is to improve the overall health and wellness of the community.

West Columbia: 3239 Sunset BoulevardIrmo: 1674-e Lake Murray Boulevard

(803) 791-2113 • lmcHealthDirections.com


Visit LexMed.com to learn more about the programs offered at Lexington Medical Center.

March 2013 calendar of events

LMC Batesburg–Leesville .........4

LMC Swansea .........................11

LFp northeast ...................13, 26

Wagener .................................21

CaLL To SCHeduLe an appoInTMenT: (803) 791-2486

MaMMographY Van MarCh DateS

wellnesspersonal training programAre you tired of the same old workout and want to take your workouts to the next level? Are you dealing with shoulder, knee or other joint problems? our personal trainers work with clients of all experience levels to increase strength, endurance and flexibility. Call for details. 791-2113

pre-natal Yoga Class Alleviate many of the discomforts of pregnancy and learn relaxation techniques to relieve stress during delivery. Call for details. 791-2113

to learn more about the instructors, personal trainers and members of health Directions, visit our Facebook page or view our videos on youTube.

MAteRnitY pROgRAMs 4 Your Special touch: infant Massage11 A three-week series. 9:30–10:30 a.m. or 18 6:30–7:30 p.m. Cost $30 or $15 if taken with

your Special Delivery.

5 Caring For You and Your Baby28 Learn how to care for you and your baby after

delivery. no cost. 6–8:30 p.m. 791-2318

5 Your Special Delivery12 A series class designed to prepare you for the19 childbirth experience. 6:30–9 p.m. for 426 consecutive Tuesdays. Cost $50. 791-2318

9 Your Special Delivery 23 A one-session class designed to prepare you for

the childbirth experience. Meets on Saturday from 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Cost $50. 791-2318

12 Super Sibling helps children ages 3–10 21 prepare for the arrival of your new baby. no cost.

6–7:30 p.m. 791-2318

14 Breastfeeding Covers advantages, tips and techniques of breastfeeding. no cost. LMP 1 Auditorium. 6:30–8:30 p.m. 791-2318

Beyond Birth: postpartum Doula Service Assisting with care for the new mother and her baby. 791-BaBY(2229)

Birth partner Labor Doula Guiding the birthing mother and her family through the birth process. 791-BaBY(2229)

heAlth MAnAgeMent 7 infant/Child Cpr Class Learn how to perform 26 CPr, respond to choking and discuss related

safety issues for infants or children. Class space is limited. $5 per person. 6–8 p.m. 791-2318

7 preparing for total Joint replacement Learn about care after surgery, pain management, exercise and rehabilitation. 5–7 p.m. no cost. 791-2318

14 preparing for hysterectomy Prepares you for upcoming surgery and teaches you how to take care of yourself afterward. 6–8 p.m. no cost. 791-2318

asthma Wellness Classes Series of individualized visits with a respiratory therapist and a pharmacist. 791-2444

Cardiac, pulmonary and Vascular rehabilitation A physician-referred program that includes monitored exercise, education and healthy lifestyle modification. 791-2621

nutrition Counseling A registered dietitian will help manage your illness or reduce your risk of illness with a personalized nutrition program. 791-2198

pulmonary rehab 101 A two-visit, outpatient program for adults with chronic lung disease and their families. 1–3 p.m., Ground Floor, Pulmonary rehab Classroom.

suppORt gROups 5 Bariatric Support group For those who have

had bariatric weight-loss surgery and their families. Meets at 6 p.m., LMP 1 Auditorium. 791-2828

5 Multiple Sclerosis Support group Meets the first Tuesday of each month. 7–8:30 p.m., Granby room. 312-4751

6 US Too For all men who have been diagnosed with, treated for or are concerned about prostate cancer. Meets the first Wednesday of every month at 1 p.m., LMP 1 Auditorium. Call Allan Schurr at 776-5834 or roland young at 361-0057.

7 Bereavement Support group For those who have lost a loved one. Meets the first Thursday of each month, 7 p.m. Granby room. 791-2901

14 Memories For parents who have experienced a miscarriage, stillbirth or early born death. Meets the second Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. 791-2420

20 Lymphedema Support group For anyone who has lymphedema and their families. The group will give individuals the chance to gain support and advice from others who have lymphedema. north Tower Lower Level Classroom 3, 5–6 p.m. Call for more information. 791-2420

28 Woman to Woman opportunity to meet other women undergoing breast cancer treatment. Meets 5 p.m. the last Thursday of every month, LMP 1 2nd Floor. For more information, call Kelly Jeffcoat at 791-2521.

Columbia help Support group for individuals dealing with herpes Simplex Virus (hSV). 781-5280

Columbia parkinson Support group For individuals and the families of those suffering with Parkinson’s disease. Meets the third Sunday of every month, except June. LMP 1 Auditorium at 3 p.m. Call Dottie Gantt at 604-0061.

Living With Change For the family members and caregivers of patients who have experienced a life-changing diagnosis. Thursdays from 1–2 p.m. 8th Floor oncology Meeting room. 791-2901

Losing is not an option For any cancer patient of LMC. Granby room, Wednesdays, 11:30 a.m. 939-8774

Memorial Services remembrance service for the families of patients at LMC. Meets quarterly in the LMP 1 Auditorium, 2:30 p.m. 791-2901

seMinARs 7 Bariatric Weight Loss Seminar Learn 9 about bariatric surgeries from South Carolina 19 obesity Surgery Center. Topics include

gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy and adjustable gastric banding. Call to register: 1-866-560-4415

25 physician Lecture Series Lexington Medical Center is pleased to present a monthly lecture series featuring physicians speaking about medical topics that are important to our community. LMP 1 Auditorium at 6 p.m. 936-8850

Cancer Services new patient orientation A program for all newly diagnosed cancer patients and/or caregivers to discuss the “what nows” including financial, insurance and disability information, general treatment options, cancer terminology, resources and support options. Meets the first and third Thursday of every month at 5 p.m. in the Lexington Medical Park 1 Ground Floor Conference room. For more information, contact Chris Gibson, LMSW, oSW-C. 939-8774.

MARch 23Colon Cancer ChallengeThe 2013 Colon Cancer Challenge is a one-day bicycling event to raise awareness for colon cancer detection, prevention and treatment. The race features a 65-mile ride, 50-mile ride, 26-mile ride and an 8K boxer runway. For more information, please visit lmcColonCancerChallenge.com or contact Community outreach at (803) 936-8850.

CoMMunitY outreaCh upCoMing eVentS

FOUNDATION FOCUS

Gifts from the Lexington Medical Center family and the community make it possible for the Lexington Medical Center Foundation to support our mission — providing quality health services that meet the needs of our community.

Healing With HeartThe Lexington Medical Center Foundation

participates in the hospital’s complete cardiovascular care program

by providing important items and services for the hospital’s cardiovascular patients.

pillowsEach open heart surgery patient receives a heart-shaped pillow from the

Lexington Medical Center Foundation. The pillow is designed to gently

support and protect a patient’s chest when he or she coughs. Members of

the patient’s care team also sign the pillow.

ScholarshipsThe Lexington Medical Center Foundation provides scholarships for heart

patients who do not have adequate financial resources to cover the cost of

cardiac rehabilitation.

education and MaterialsThe Lexington Medical Center Foundation has purchased flat screen

televisions, patient education materials, pedometers and T-shirts for

cardiac rehabilitation. These projects receive funding through the Cardiac,

Pulmonary, Vascular rehabilitation Fund at the Foundation.

Giving to the Lexington Medical Center Foundation can do your heart and the hearts of others extraordinary good. With your support, the Lexington Medical Center Foundation is able to provide cardiac rehabilitation scholarships for patients in need, comfort care items and patient education materials.

Our Services Touch the Heart of

the Community

Visit lmcFoundation.com to learn more.

L e x i n g t o n M e d i c a L c e n t e rF o u n d at i o n

If you would like to make a contribution to the Lexington Medical Center Foundation’s cardiovascular programs, visit

lmcFoundation.com

Documents

Lexington Medical Center Heart Health Insert