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Foundation for Morristown Medical Center
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WINTER 2015
also inside: The New Deskovick Maternity Center | Answers About AFib | A Nod to Outgoing Board Chair J. Peter Simon
475 South Street | Morristown, NJ 07960
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PAID CALDWELL, NJPERMIT #1502
CalendarofEvents For upcoming events, log on to f4mmc.org and select News & Events
Writer: Laura Deal | Editor: Regi DiverioLayout: Susan Falcone, Envoi Design
The Foundation for Morristown Medical Center is a nonprofit public foundation whose mission is to inspire community philanthropy to advance exceptional health care for patients at Morristown Medical Center. Our objective is to use philanthropy to preserve and expand the hospital’s
programs and services in direct patient care, clinical research, medical and public health education and preventive medicine.
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To opt out of receiving this communication from the Foundation, please contact us at [email protected] or 973-593-2400.
SAMETH TRIBUTEAlmost on cue, the clouds lifted and the sun shone down upon 100 family members and friends gathered for the dedication of the Sameth Emergency Department on Saturday, October 18, 2014. The event honored lead donors Bob and Sue Sameth of New Vernon for whom the department is now named. Foundation Board Chairman J. Peter Simon served as master of ceremonies for the program, which featured remarks from Acting Director of Emergency Medicine Dr. Bill Felegi and Director of Surgical Critical Care and Trauma Dr. Lou DiFazio, a moving patient testimonial from Denis Ohara and a blessing from Monsignor Patrick Brown.
National Doctor’s Day | 3.30.15• Say thanks to yours •
www.f4mmc.org/drsday2015
Pictured: The Sameth family (front row): Teagan, Noelle, Grace, Emma, and Nevan; (back row): Chris, Caroline, Kristen, Sue, Bob, Tanya and Rob Jr.
MORRISTOWN’S NURSES JOIN AN ELITE FEW WORLDWIDE, EARNING MAGNET® RECOGNITION FOUR TIMES RUNNING PG 4
NURSING’SPERCENTERS1
Life in Motion Photography
LEAD BY EXAMPLE
Foundation Trustee Edward Deutsch thought long and hard when it came to his contribution to Campaign 3SIXTY. First, his law firm, McElroy, Deutsch, Mulvaney & Carpenter, LLP, donated $100,000 to the Chambers Center for Well Being. Next, he launched the Law Firm Giving Initiative, reaching out to nearly 40 firms and urging them to consider a similar gift. This campaign within a campaign will run through 2015.
Compelled to raise awareness of the benefits of integrative medicine for attorneys and their families, Mr. Deutsch will be meeting with law firms to promote the initiative: “Those in the law profession work long hours; access to wellness options that will help them stay healthy and active are important messages to convey. It’s in their best interest to consider a donation to the Chambers Center.”
“I knew that, in helping the hospital, I wanted to do more than just write a check,” he adds. “I also know the hospital is at a critical juncture. Investments must be made in its core programs and people to gear up for the challenges we will be facing with health care in the coming years.”
UPDATE:FUNDS RAISED AS OF DEC 31, 2014
TOTAL: $91.7 million
BREAK-OUT (gifts secured): 22 gifts at $1,000,000+6 gifts at $500,00013 gifts at $250,00024 gifts at $100,000
Giving Spirit
Customers checked items off their holiday shopping list in early December at F. Gerald New in Harding Township, while being treated to an exclusive Seaman Schepps Trunk Show.
The evening, replete with a champagne reception and pianist Bob Egan, also helped the hospital garner $10,000 in proceeds to benefit Campaign 3SIXTY.
“We’ve had a long-standing relationship with the hospital and think it is wonderful already,” says Ed Jaeckle, owner. “We know the campaign will make it even better.”
“Our customers are all neighbors, friends and sup-porters of the hospital too, which made this a nice fit,” adds Mr. Jaeckle.
Integrative medicine, with its focus on treating the whole patient, is playing a bigger and more critical role in healing. Both patients and doctors agree that working together to treat the mind, body and spirit goes farther than just treating the disease.
Current Landscape:At Morristown Medical Center, a “healing culture” is part of our mission. We’ve incorporated integrative medicine throughout the medical center and in our community. Knowing that our Mind-Body Center at Atlantic Rehabilitation Institute was constrained by space and design limitations, we set out to build a center that would provide holistic and lifestyle services, and be a resource for integrative medicine training and education.
The 360° Solution: Through Campaign 3SIXTY fundraising and Atlantic Health System support, the 20,000-square-foot Chambers Center for Well Being opened last fall at 435 South Street. We are now advancing the center’s strategic mission by focusing our fundraising on research, education, programs, equipment, technology and endowment support.
The Transformation:By combining holistic primary care, intensive integrative medicine, lifestyle change programming and provider/community education, we aren’t just treating symptoms; we’re providing patients with proactive ways to prevent illness.
Your Role:Current insurance reimbursement only supports procedure-based therapies. We must continue to rely on the support of donors to build and expand our integrative medicine program.
Total cost: $17.8 million. Philanthropic target: $8.2 million
DONATE NOW: f4mmc.org
center for well being
Campaign 3SIXTY initiatives
will strengthen the entire medical center.
A NEW ATRIAL FIBRILLATION CENTER
With a steady increase in the diagnosis of atrial fibrillation (AF) cases and an elderly population on the rise, Gagnon Cardiovascular
Institute is creating a center exclusively dedicated to treating this condi-tion with $1.6 million raised through Campaign 3SIXTY.
The Cardiac Rhythm Management Program at Gagnon has already solidly positioned itself to handle all types of cardiac arrhythmias, including AF, which is the most common. However, we need to expand our program to handle the anticipated increase in AF cases over the next decade.
The new center will offer the latest technology to perform curative ablation procedures, conduct clinical trials, and employ a nurse practitioner along with a part-time research assistant. An advanced Odyssey Information Manage-ment System, which enables our electrophysiologists to capture all clinical
data in real time for easy access, will further streamline procedures. Funding is now being sought for program needs.
If you are interested in supporting the center, please contact Director of Major Gifts Hyona Revere at 973-593-2429 or
f4mmc.org | Viewpoint 3
Q&A with Stephen Winters, MDDirector, Cardiac Rhythm Management Program | Gagnon Cardiovascular Institute
Atrial fibrillation (AF) cases, which are the most common form of abnormal heart rhythm, are expected to climb dramatically in the coming years as demographics in Morris and Somerset counties show a projected increase of our elderly. In fact, by 2030, it is estimated that seniors will make up 28 percent of the population, and many will require some type of intervention as the risk of arrhythmias increases with age.
AF occurs when the atria (the upper chambers of the heart) are fibrillating or quivering, which results in a rapid irregular heart rhythm. While AF currently afflicts 2.2 million Americans, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that 12 million people will have the condition by 2050.
Q: What is the most common cause of AF?
A: While the true cause remains unknown, there are some associated conditions that may increase the risk of AF, including valvular heart disease, prior myocardial infarction, cardiomyopathy (enlarged heart), chronic lung disease, sleep apnea, hypertension, diabetes, obesity and alcohol consumption.
Q: What do people usually overlook as a tell-tale symptom?
A: Whereas many individuals recognize an irregular and/or rapid heartbeat as a primary symptom of AF, other more subtle presenting symptoms may be unexplained shortness of breath, dizziness, atypical chest discomfort and unexplained periods of feeling anxious.
Q: Is there an increased risk of having a stroke with AF?
A: Overall, patients with AF are at an increased risk for stroke. While this risk is minimal for younger, healthy patients, the risk increases
if the patient is older and female or other conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes mellitus and congestive heart failure are present.
Q: What are the best treatment options available?
A: In instances where the episodes are infrequent and the patient does not have pronounced symptoms or a heightened risk of stroke, no treatment is necessary, but reassurance is often helpful. Integrative medicine techniques, such as meditation, may also be of benefit. When required, treatment is focused on reducing the risk of stroke (if these symptoms are present). There are three new oral anticoagulants, Pradaxa®, Eliquis® and Xarelto®, in addition to the anticoagulant Coumadin, which can be prescribed for this purpose. Control of rapid heart beating can usually be achieved with commonly used medicines,
including beta blockers, calcium channel antagonists, or digoxin. When rhythm management is needed to prevent the episodes altogether, various antiarrhythmic drugs can be used, along with a procedure, commonly performed at Morristown Medical Center, known as ablation.
Q: What do most people not know about AF?
A: AF is common and not typically a sign of other heart-related problems. Yet many patients are unaware that they may be at risk for stroke and can benefit from use of anti-coagulants. Doctors at Morristown Medical Center have cutting-edge techniques to cure AF in many instances.
Q: Is AF genetic?
A: There are genetic predispositions for devel-oping AF in some instances. However, much work continues to be done to hone in on specific genes that may be predictive of the condition.
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4 Focus On | f4mmc.org
Seven-year nursing veteran Lise Cooper, RN, often faces bumper to bumper traffic on her 40-mile trek to Morristown Medical Center. She lives two miles from another hospital but wouldn’t consider the trade-off. What makes her job so special?
The answer is simple. Morristown Medical Center has earned Magnet® recognition (a gold standard achievement in the nursing industry) four consecutive times, an honor claimed by less than 1 percent of the world’s hospitals. The distinction carries through 2018.
This prestigious program measures more than 250 standards of patient care delivery and is awarded by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). It’s a game changer for Ms. Cooper and the 1,800-strong nursing staff, turning their jobs into purposeful, lifelong careers.
In fact, the application for Magnet status seems to take the same time and determination as the pursuit of a meaningful nursing career. Documentation is compiled that explains how standards are being exceeded in each area of nursing excellence. An ANCC review board examines each point, and then Magnet appraisers conduct a site visit and meet with nurses, physicians, hospital staff, patients, community members and affiliates.
“When the appraisers come in, they are validating the documents we have already sent to them,” says Chief Nursing Officer Trish O’Keefe, PhD, RN. “They want to see if we walk the talk.”
The hospital has passed consistently, and many of the accolades rest with career-minded nurses like Ms. Cooper, who was awarded a master’s degree in nursing and is now enrolled as a doctoral candidate in medical humanities.
All of this advanced professional training has made a huge difference in the quality of care that patients receive. The hospital maintains lower infection rates and fewer falls among patients than the norm. It also steadily maintains a higher than average overall patient and nurse satisfaction rate.
“What these high marks really say is that all aspects of nursing, including education and staffing needs, are taken very seriously here,” says Ms. Cooper, who works as a clinical coordinator.
In fact, Campaign 3SIXTY has multiple funding areas for nurses that will keep this department strong well into the next decade and beyond, including positions at the Atrial Fibrillation Center, Autism Center, Chambers Center for Well Being, Chanin T. Mast Center for Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy, Farris Family Center for Advanced Medicine in Pediatrics, The Medicines Company Geriatric Emergency Department and the Nancy and Skippy Weinstein Inpatient Hospice and Palliative Care Center.
In addition to these campaign-tagged nursing needs, continuing education for nurses has long been supported by the community. Lead donors* include:
George and Grania Allport
Austin and Meg Buck
John C., Edward J. and Noel K. Foley
The Frelinghuysen Foundation
Donna E. Goldman
The late Audrey and Robert Lein
Adele O. Miller
The Paragano Family Foundation
Norman and Barbara Tomlinson
The Women’s Association
Others, such as the late Hazel P. Balch, Ruth Boyette, Mary Ellen McDonough and Louise Washington, included prominent support for nurses in their estate plans.
“If it weren’t for donations such as these, along with monies from countless other donors, we wouldn’t be able to offer the extensive advanced nursing specialty training
that has kept our nurses ahead of the curve for many years,” says Ms. O’Keefe, who notes that certification of nurses in Magnet hospitals stands at 30-35 percent nationally while at Morristown it’s 50 percent.
Not only are individual nurses using education to better themselves, but the organization, as a whole, has been flexible in applying advice from Magnet appraisers. For example, in 2005, they suggested that the hospital hire a full-time nurse researcher. The research studies that resulted have served as building blocks to improve patient care.
A recent study on quality improvement, executed by nurses in the Intensive Care Unit, has helped patients removed from respirators eat sooner and maintain better nutrition. The Prevention of Physical Decline project has increased the mobility of geriatric patients, and the Soothing Paws™ pet therapy program has helped to lower anxiety levels among patients and their families as well as staff. These types of innovations in patient care are where the hospital excelled in its recent Magnet re-designation.
Dynamic relationships between nurses and physicians also received high marks. Steven Maser, MD, president of the medical and dental staff, has witnessed these positive working relationships for years.
“Nurses are always seeking out a teamwork approach with physicians in developing better outcomes, such as finding ways to decrease patient falls after knee surgery and decreasing the amount of blood loss after surgery, to name a few recent successes,” he says.
The entire nursing staff shares the enthusiasm for maintaining high standards.
“The motivation to constantly raise the bar is what makes working at Morristown so exciting,” says Ms. Cooper. “There is always the opportunity to be an integral part of positive change. It’s a win-win for everyone.”
If you would like to support our nurses, select ‘nursing’ on the giving envelope enclosed in this Journal or on the online giving form at f4mmc.org.
NURSING
*Referring to donors of $100,000 or more
When asked who inspired him to live a life of magnanimous philanthropy, J. Peter Simon didn’t hesitate: “My father. He taught me by example.”
When William E. Simon, former treasury secretary for Presidents Richard Nixon and Gerald Ford, passed away in 2000, his son was handed a mandate: “I had a finite amount of time to help in giving away my father’s fortune, which led me to get more involved in philanthropy.”
“The William E. Simon Foundation doesn’t give to anything that we are not also an active part of,” says Mr. Simon. “There’s a responsibility that goes along with giving money. That’s true philanthropy.”
The hospital has been a major recipient of Simon Foundation monies, and the idea of never being satisfied with only writing a check led Mr. Simon to join the Foundation for Morristown Medical Center’s board of trustees in 2000. With his wife, Janet, he helped to raise significant funds, build programs and expand major centers of excellence at the hospital, including Carol G. Simon Cancer Center, named for his late mother. He also launched and chaired the Oncology Philanthropy Council in 2005 and took over as chairman of the Foundation board in 2008, stepping down this past December.
His passion lights an aura around him; here is a man who is not afraid to fail: “Life is to be lived, whether you win or lose,” says Mr. Simon, who is also co-founder and co-chairman of William E. Simon & Sons Private Equity Partners, LLC, a principal invest-ment firm based in Morristown. “I don’t really sit back a whole lot.”
Although he does relax on Sundays after attending church: “My son, Tim, was here this past Sunday and we watched football together.” As a self-proclaimed family man, he enjoys spending time with Janet and their four children: Peter Jr. (28), Emily (27), Timothy (25) and Cameron (21).
But on Monday mornings, Mr. Simon is back working his heavily populated to-do list, which consists of many projects affiliated with the numerous organizations he serves, among them the Richard Nixon Foundation, the N.J. State Board of Education, and the University of Rochester’s William E. Simon Graduate School of Business Administration.
As a trustee at his alma mater, Lafayette College, “Peter made it possible for us to build one of the finest undergraduate academic programs in the world,” says W. Mark Crain, the William E. Simon
Professor of Political Economy at Lafayette. “He brings optimism and spirituality that lifts every initiative we undertake.”
Tri-County Scholarship Fund President Gregory Floyd adds: “The first words that come to mind, when I think of Peter Simon, are that he is a treasured friend. Peter is also a friend to Tri-County. He has a deep concern for inner-city kids: that they do well, that they stay safe.”
From where does his compassion and energy spring?
“For those who have much, much is expected,” says Mr. Simon. “You would have to be sleeping when they read the scriptures at church if you don’t get it: it’s all about helping others.”
J . PETE R S I MON
“ There’s a responsibility that goes along with giving money. That’s true philanthropy.”
6 Portrait | f4mmc.org
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CIRCLE OF FRIENDSWith over 100 attendees, the annual Brookfield Legacy Society/Loyalty Luncheon, held at the Morris County Golf Club on October 15, was festive and engaging. Additions to the program included video footage of Ebola preparedness drills being conducted at Morristown Medical Center and a presentation on autism by Tara Gleeson, DNP. Find out more about the Brookfield Legacy Society at www.f4mmc.plannedgiving.org.
LIVES REMEMBEREDOver 100 family and friends attended the October 2 dedication of the new Memorial Wall in Rooke Family Plaza atop the Carol G. Simon Cancer Center. The wall’s tiles name those for whom memorial gifts were made of $1,000 or more. After a year, the tiles will be presented to the families as a keepsake, and new name tiles will be mounted.
A HOME FOR HOLISTIC MEDICINEEager to tour the new 20,000-sq.-ft. Chambers Center for Well Being, 240 people turned out for the October 9 dedication at 435 South Street. Finn Wentworth, Foundation trustee and Campaign 3SIXTY chair, presided over the program, which included presentations by donor Ray Chambers and guests Drs. Deepak Chopra and Dean Ornish.
Pictured left (l-r): Michael, Ray, Patti, and Tina Chambers; Michael and Christine Gilfillan. Below (l-r): Dr. Deepak Chopra, Dr. Dean Ornish and the Luvo Café
8 News | f4mmc.org
D E L I V E RYspecialIn recognition
of their gift,
the Maternity
Center will be
named for the
Deskovicks and
the Franklin
Building will
be known as
the Deskovick
Pavilion.
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Dick and Jackie Deskovick
Morristown residents Robert “Dick” and Louise “Jackie” Deskovick gave $5
million this past fall to complete the long-standing Maternity Center renova-
tion. In recognition of their gift, the center will be named for the pair and
the Franklin Building will be known as the Deskovick Pavilion.
The now surpassed $2.7 million renovation goal was part of a larger $12 million multi-phase project to update the Maternity Center into a state-of-the-art haven for new moms, babies and their families.
“I’ve thought about helping the hospital for a very long time now,” says Mr. Deskovick, who co-founded the First Morris Bank (now Provident Bank) in the late 1960s. “My wife was born and raised in Morristown, and I spent 50 years in Morris Township.”
The gift will support renovation of the center’s entryway and be further used for equip-ment and programs.
“To give a gift of this magnitude, which finishes our Maternity Center’s renovation, ensures that all of our patients will now be able to deliver their babies in a spa-like environment, with private rooms, the latest technology and family-centered care,” says hospital President David Shulkin, MD.
D E L I V E RY
f4mmc.org | News 9
POWER IN THE HOUSEYou could say Janet Simon, founder of the Women’s Health Philanthropy Council (WHPC), has created the perfect storm, but unlike dangerous nor’easters, her council of 16 high-powered women is a major force in contributing funds to the hospital and finding others to do the same. The council has given $3 million to more than 27 programs since 2009.
WHPC showcases a physician at each meeting to educate members and hosts an annual community event highlighting women’s health issues.
“Our clear-cut mission has powered our achievements,” says Mrs. Simon. “We meet four times a year, are expected to make a leadership gift and find others who can do the same.”
In addition to the Women’s Clinic, Maternity Center, Breast Center concierge and more, the council has funded projects outside of women’s health, such as the Geriatric Assessment Center, the daVinci robot and Sameth Emergency Department expansion.
“We like to ask our council members what they feel strongly about. It’s easier to raise funds when you have passion.”
LEADER OF THE PACKLeaders in donating generously to the hospital, the doctors of Anesthesia Associates of Morristown have outdone themselves once again. The group of 50 physicians announced a $1 million pledge, a portion of which will complete the funding for the endowed chair of cardiovascular surgery at Gagnon Cardiovascular Institute, honoring Grant V.S. Parr, MD, physician-in-chief and the founder and former chief of cardiac surgery.
The remainder of the gift is as yet undesignated, but will be used toward needs within Campaign 3SIXTY.
“We have consistently contributed to areas where the hospital has identified a need,” says Kevin Barry, MD, president of Anesthesia Associates. “We saw this opportunity as a critically important step for Gagnon, and naming the chair after Dr. Parr was equally important to us, after everything he has done.”
The physician group has given more than $2.5 million to hospital priorities, including Carol G. Simon Cancer Center, Goryeb Children’s Hospital and Gagnon Cardiovascular Institute.
Peter J. Cocoziello President and CEO Advance Realty
Carl J. Goldberg Managing Member Canoe Brook Investors, LLC
Stanley “Stan” B. Fiel, MD Chairman Department of Medicine Morristown Medical Center Regional Chairman Atlantic Health System
Karen M. Knops, MD Founder and Medical Director Palliative Care Program Morristown Medical Center
Finn X. Wentworth Vice Chairman
Christopher J. Baldwin Chairman
Emeritus Grant V.S. Parr, MD Physician-in-Chief Gagnon Cardiovascular Institute
Honorary Frank E. Walsh, Jr. Mary “Mimi” Walsh
NEW F4MMC TRUSTEES
NEW OFFICERS
10 News | f4mmc.org
THE DOCTOR IS IN The last piece of news that Teresa Vega expected to hear was that she had ovarian cancer. Her initial shock gave way to gratitude and then to a donation of $130,000 because of the care she received and the listening ear, always available, from her medical team.
“My husband and I met with Daniel Tobias, MD, and Steven Papish, MD, with pages of questions and they would sit with us for hours,” says Ms. Vega.
A nurse navigator will be partially funded with $100,000 of their gift: “To help patients with feelings of despair and confusion and to bring hope.”
The balance will support the Automatic Switch Company seminar series for physician education led by Dr. Papish.
RUN ON When 16-year-old David Lopes doubled over in pain on the soccer field, his whole world collapsed. Being diagnosed with a congenital diaphragmatic hernia took another piece of his identity away.
Donating $1,940 to Goryeb was easy for David’s father, Jorge, after he witnessed the expert care that restored his son to playing condition.
“It was the most refreshing experience we’ve ever had in a hospital,” he says.
Mr. Lopes raised the money by running in the 2014 Chicago Marathon, soliciting sponsors through a fundraising website. The gift benefits the Pediatric Inpatient Unit and Joan and Edward Foley Pediatric Intensive Care Unit expansions.
Pictured above: Jorge Lopes
FORMULA FOR SUCCESS The late Herbert Gernert was an investment analyst, so it came as no surprise that he knew the value of investing $100,000 in a bequest to the Foundation. His unre-stricted gift allowed the hospital to use the monies where they were needed most.
After making the Foundation aware of his bequest, Mr. Gernert became a member of the Brookfield Legacy Society, which offers members courtesy amenities when hospitalized, invitations to the annual luncheon and to financial and health seminars, and free hospital parking.
“All you have to do is let us know about your intention to give a bequest,” says Cynthia O’Donnell, director of gift planning. “Bequests are popular because the donor retains control and can revoke the bequest at any time. It’s also an advantage, for many, to give without having their cash flow interrupted.”
To learn more, contact Ms. O’Donnell at 973-593-2418 or [email protected].
KIRBY FILLS THE GAP
Thanks to a $600,000 grant from the F.M. Kirby Foundation, the new Head Family Inpatient Psychiatric and Behavioral Health Center is one step closer to reality.
For many, the new facility can’t come soon enough since budget cuts for behavioral health services have overwhelmed our current unit with capacity bookings.
“This overcrowding situation is far from ideal for an institution of Morristown Medical Center’s high quality and reputation,” says S. Dillard Kirby, president and director at the Kirby Foundation. “We recognize how difficult it is to raise private funds for mental health programs and wanted to be where other funders are not filling an important gap.”
The Kirby monies bring fundraising efforts up to $4.8 million toward a $5.7 million goal. Construction is scheduled to begin this spring on the new unit, which will accommodate up to 24 patients in eight single-bedded and eight double-bedded rooms.
To join the Kirby Foundation in supporting this center, contact Cynthia O’Donnell, director of gift planning, at 973-593-2418 or [email protected].
f4mmc.org | News 11
reap what you sow How does a farmer from Indiana, who never lived in New Jersey, become a
steadfast donor to Gagnon Cardiovascular Institute?
Jeff Kuss was bicycling in the Great Swamp section of Chatham Township, while visiting a friend from the area, and suffered a heart attack.
“If Dr. Frank Frenda [affiliated with Morristown Medical Center] hadn’t stopped his car and helped me, I wouldn’t be here today,” says Mr. Kuss, who works 10- to 12-hour days on his 1,400-acre corn and soybean farm in Valparaiso, Indiana. “Supposedly I had died right there on the sidewalk.”
Dr. Frenda also knew that Chatham Township police officers had defibrillators in their cars, and they were about one-half mile from the station.
“They hit me nine times before I came back to life,” says Mr. Kuss, who was rushed to Morristown Medical Center where a stent was placed in his heart. He was under the care of Dr. Barry Cohen for eight days.
“I have no permanent heart damage,” says Mr. Kuss. “I want to donate so others can be serviced as I was.”
WE CAN DO BETTER
Atlantic Health System has discovered like-minded peers at the College of Saint Elizabeth, McCarter & English Attorneys at Law, Verizon and The Nicholson Foundation, all of whom came together to sponsor a forum addressing some of the tough issues facing the neighbor-hoods where we work, live and play.
At the first-ever “Empowering Adaptable Communities: Building Resilience in Vulnerable Populations” conference, held at the College of Saint Elizabeth, participants discussed practical solutions to sometimes daunting social maladies. More than 125 professionals examined community afflictions, such as human trafficking, cyberbullying and chronic unemployment.
“Participants made personal commitments to make a difference,” says Chris Kirk, director of mission development, Atlantic Health System.
PAWS FOR APPLAUSE Dogs and smiles go hand-in-hand whether you are enjoying your own tail-wagging, tongue-licking encounter or listening to experts talk about the profound ways that canines can lift spirits.
Both were plentiful at the Second Annual Pet Therapy Conference, held at the Hyatt Morristown last fall, funded in part by a $10,000 donation from the Gertrude Hirsch Charitable Trust.
More than 175 attendees exchanged ideas about the therapeutic benefits that animals provide to patients and medical staff at the hospital. The conference was sponsored by Soothing Paws™. This pet therapy program has been offered at the hospital since 2007 and is funded by the Women’s Association of Morristown Medical Center.
12 News | f4mmc.org
THE STRENGTH OF PINK The color pink embodies all things sweet and tender but, at the Second Annual Pink Affair, a bold statement was made for the fight against breast cancer, bringing in more than $3,000 for Carol G. Simon Cancer Center.
Corrections Officer Yvette Carroll, along with fellow corrections officers at Northern State Prison, organized the fundraiser for more than 100 partygoers this past fall at Newark’s Ramada Hotel. Candles illuminated the room as participants commemorated their own struggles with breast cancer or those of family members or friends.
“I love parties and realized the satisfaction of throwing a party with a purpose,” says Ms. Carroll.
giving a little...It’s already common knowledge that our physicians give an abundance of
time and talent to the hospital. Many also give generously of their finances,
with a growing number coming on board as donors to Campaign 3SIXTY.
Charles Marotta, MD, and Darshan Godkar, MD, of Advanced Cardiology, gave $25,000 toward the Parr Chair of Cardiovascular Surgery at Gagnon Cardiovas-cular Institute.
“It gives us great satisfaction to know we’re contributing to the resources this hospital is well-known for throughout the state and nation,” says Dr. Marotta.
“We’re impressed with the infrastructure, nursing staff and level of care each patient receives and are proud to be associated with Morristown Medical Center,” adds Dr. Godkar.
Gaines Mimms, MD, co-chair of the pediatric philanthropy council, gave $20,000, split between medical research and the Autism Center: “By being involved in philan-thropy, I’ve seen how these monies have greatly improved the lives of fragile infants in our NICU.”
Elizabeth Clemente, DDS, chair, Department of Dentistry, gave $10,000 toward Project Independence and $5,000 toward the Leonard Szerlip Dental Center at the hospital: “Contributing to the campaign assures that our hospital will be here to serve the next generation.”
Pictured below (l-r): Drs. Charles Marotta, Darshan Godkar, Gaines Mimms, and Elizabeth Clemente
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SURF’S UPThe Beach Boys sing about it and Hawaii is known for it, but it took T.J. Eaton and Evan Winokur, co-founders of A Little Helping Hand nonprofit organization, to find a way to make surfing benefit Goryeb Children’s Hospital.
Their surf camp (held in conjunction with Brittany Hennessy of Heritage Surf & Sport) took place this past summer in Ocean City, NJ. Donations made at the surf store and through the nonprofit’s website raised $1,500 for the new Child Development and Autism Center. More than 50 children with special needs attended the one-day event, which was offered free of charge.
“Life for children should be happy,” says Mr. Eaton. “The parents at the event were all so thankful.”
f4mmc.org | News 13
NURTURING NURSESNurses, by nature, often put their patients’ needs first, sacrificing the time they need to take care of themselves.
In response, the Goldman Family Nursing Scholarship, which has provided continuing education funds for cardiac and oncology nurses since 2008, will now include a mind/body component, emphasizing self-care as an important facet of their jobs.
“We wanted to give them a space and time to focus on their own needs,” says Donna Goldman, MD, whose family fully funds the nursing scholarship.
The first installment in a series, “Caring for your Mind and Body: Topics in Cardiology & Oncology” was offered in December as a continuing education course for registered nurses and allied health professionals at the hospital.
A BASKET OF CHEER What do you get when you take an ordinary basket, an extraordinary amount of creativity and a free pass for employees to spend money on a good cause? The 9th Annual Employee Basket Raffle, of course.
A steady stream of employees, who attended the event last fall, had a chance of winning one (or more) of the 97 baskets on display. More than $8,500 was raised, which was matched by the Foundation for a total of $17, 243 that went toward inpatient integrative medicine services.
“This is an entirely employee-run event,” says Marilyn Ilvento, coordinator of laboratory services and raffle chair. “It’s a great morale booster, and employees can see how their efforts directly help the hospital.”
Pictured above (l-r): Judee Roth and the Foundation’s Jim Quinn
BURDEN FREE When Frank Diassi received a pacemaker in the spring of 2014,
his heart felt better for two reasons: He had no complications post
procedure and he helped others with a $100,000 gift to the hospital.
The gift was earmarked for a new ZeroGravity Radiation Protection System for the Electrophysiology Lab.
“I told Dr. Curwin on the operating table that I went to a fundraiser for the Electrophysiology Program but hadn’t yet donated, and he told me he would treat me well anyway,” says the 81-year-old Far Hills resident. “My treatment was fantastic, which led me to donate. You know, you really feel good after you do something like that.”
Mr. Diassi found out that clinicians suffer neck problems and more when wearing heavy lead aprons while administering radiation to patients: “I found out a nurse wore two aprons to protect her unborn child, and it was extremely cumbersome for her.”
Absolutely no weight is placed on the physician with ZeroGravity. Operating from a suspended rack attached to the ceiling, it covers the clinician’s entire body, enabling him or her to move around with ease, hands free.
Pictured above (l-r): Dr. Robert Coyne and Frank Diassi
She
lley
Kus
netz
My treatment was fantastic, which led
me to donate.
SPOTLIGHT ONINTEGRATIVE MEDICINE
Shane’s Story
Swimming, bicycling and running are common hobbies for many, but
combine them into a triathlon and the playing field narrows considerably.
Over the last 28 years, Shane Arters has competed in more than 200 triathlons and multi-sport events, which made his diagnosis of Miller Fisher Syndrome in 2011 almost unbearable for him to accept.
“I was crushed,” says the now 45-year-old San Mateo, California, resident.
With the immune system disorder, Mr. Arters was suddenly unable to fully move his hands, and paralysis in his right eye led to distorted vision and headaches. The recovery process took one and a half years, with most of that time spent at his then local hospital Morristown Medical Center, working with
acupuncturist Jutta Gassner-Snyder.
“Jutta went the extra mile with me,” says Mr. Arters. “She would come in early or stay late to accommodate my schedule. I owe
my comeback largely to her expertise.”
LEAD BY EXAMPLE
Foundation Trustee Edward Deutsch thought long and hard when it came to his contribution to Campaign 3SIXTY. First, his law firm, McElroy, Deutsch, Mulvaney & Carpenter, LLP, donated $100,000 to the Chambers Center for Well Being. Next, he launched the Law Firm Giving Initiative, reaching out to nearly 40 firms and urging them to consider a similar gift. This campaign within a campaign will run through 2015.
Compelled to raise awareness of the benefits of integrative medicine for attorneys and their families, Mr. Deutsch will be meeting with law firms to promote the initiative: “Those in the law profession work long hours; access to wellness options that will help them stay healthy and active are important messages to convey. It’s in their best interest to consider a donation to the Chambers Center.”
“I knew that, in helping the hospital, I wanted to do more than just write a check,” he adds. “I also know the hospital is at a critical juncture. Investments must be made in its core programs and people to gear up for the challenges we will be facing with health care in the coming years.”
UPDATE:FUNDS RAISED AS OF DEC 31, 2014
TOTAL: $91.7 million
BREAK-OUT (gifts secured): 22 gifts at $1,000,000+6 gifts at $500,00013 gifts at $250,00024 gifts at $100,000
Giving Spirit
Customers checked items off their holiday shopping list in early December at F. Gerald New in Harding Township, while being treated to an exclusive Seaman Schepps Trunk Show.
The evening, replete with a champagne reception and pianist Bob Egan, also helped the hospital garner $10,000 in proceeds to benefit Campaign 3SIXTY.
“We’ve had a long-standing relationship with the hospital and think it is wonderful already,” says Ed Jaeckle, owner. “We know the campaign will make it even better.”
“Our customers are all neighbors, friends and sup-porters of the hospital too, which made this a nice fit,” adds Mr. Jaeckle.
Integrative medicine, with its focus on treating the whole patient, is playing a bigger and more critical role in healing. Both patients and doctors agree that working together to treat the mind, body and spirit goes farther than just treating the disease.
Current Landscape:At Morristown Medical Center, a “healing culture” is part of our mission. We’ve incorporated integrative medicine throughout the medical center and in our community. Knowing that our Mind-Body Center at Atlantic Rehabilitation Institute was constrained by space and design limitations, we set out to build a center that would provide holistic and lifestyle services, and be a resource for integrative medicine training and education.
The 360° Solution: Through Campaign 3SIXTY fundraising and Atlantic Health System support, the 20,000-square-foot Chambers Center for Well Being opened last fall at 435 South Street. We are now advancing the center’s strategic mission by focusing our fundraising on research, education, programs, equipment, technology and endowment support.
The Transformation:By combining holistic primary care, intensive integrative medicine, lifestyle change programming and provider/community education, we aren’t just treating symptoms; we’re providing patients with proactive ways to prevent illness.
Your Role:Current insurance reimbursement only supports procedure-based therapies. We must continue to rely on the support of donors to build and expand our integrative medicine program.
Total cost: $17.8 million. Philanthropic target: $8.2 million
DONATE NOW: f4mmc.org
center for well being
Campaign 3SIXTY initiatives
will strengthen the entire medical center.
A NEW ATRIAL FIBRILLATION CENTER
With a steady increase in the diagnosis of atrial fibrillation (AF) cases and an elderly population on the rise, Gagnon Cardiovascular
Institute is creating a center exclusively dedicated to treating this condi-tion with $1.6 million raised through Campaign 3SIXTY.
The Cardiac Rhythm Management Program at Gagnon has already solidly positioned itself to handle all types of cardiac arrhythmias, including AF, which is the most common. However, we need to expand our program to handle the anticipated increase in AF cases over the next decade.
The new center will offer the latest technology to perform curative ablation procedures, conduct clinical trials, and employ a nurse practitioner along with a part-time research assistant. An advanced Odyssey Information Manage-ment System, which enables our electrophysiologists to capture all clinical
data in real time for easy access, will further streamline procedures. Funding is now being sought for program needs.
If you are interested in supporting the center, please contact Director of Major Gifts Hyona Revere at 973-593-2429 or
WINTER 2015
also inside: The New Deskovick Maternity Center | Answers About AFib | A Nod to Outgoing Board Chair J. Peter Simon
475 South Street | Morristown, NJ 07960
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Writer: Laura Deal | Editor: Regi DiverioLayout: Susan Falcone, Envoi Design
The Foundation for Morristown Medical Center is a nonprofit public foundation whose mission is to inspire community philanthropy to advance exceptional health care for patients at Morristown Medical Center. Our objective is to use philanthropy to preserve and expand the hospital’s
programs and services in direct patient care, clinical research, medical and public health education and preventive medicine.
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SAMETH TRIBUTEAlmost on cue, the clouds lifted and the sun shone down upon 100 family members and friends gathered for the dedication of the Sameth Emergency Department on Saturday, October 18, 2014. The event honored lead donors Bob and Sue Sameth of New Vernon for whom the department is now named. Foundation Board Chairman J. Peter Simon served as master of ceremonies for the program, which featured remarks from Acting Director of Emergency Medicine Dr. Bill Felegi and Director of Surgical Critical Care and Trauma Dr. Lou DiFazio, a moving patient testimonial from Denis Ohara and a blessing from Monsignor Patrick Brown.
National Doctor’s Day | 3.30.15• Say thanks to yours •
www.f4mmc.org/drsday2015
Pictured: The Sameth family (front row): Teagan, Noelle, Grace, Emma, and Nevan; (back row): Chris, Caroline, Kristen, Sue, Bob, Tanya and Rob Jr.
MORRISTOWN’S NURSES JOIN AN ELITE FEW WORLDWIDE, EARNING MAGNET® RECOGNITION FOUR TIMES RUNNING PG 4
NURSING’SPERCENTERS1
Life in Motion Photography
