Health

Health News 07/12/2017

July 12, 2017 By Mary Rathman

Sertoma Foundation receives funding
Sam Shrieves, marking president of Capital City Bank, presented a $250 check to Debra Golinski, executive director of Sertoma Speech & Hearing Foundation, to be used for program services. Capital City has been a supporter of Sertoma programs in Pasco, Hernando and Citrus counties for nearly 20 years.

Hospital hands out awards
Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point has recognized Peggy Pappas, RN, with the 11th annual Good Samaritan Health Clinic Nurses’ Gala Nurse of the Year award. A winner is selected from each local hospital.

Pappas will reign for one year with community appearances, such as a judge for the Festival of Trees event and riding in the Chasco Fiesta Parade.

The hospital also has selected its male and female volunteer of the year award recipients.

Dixie Cagle joined Regional Medical’s volunteer association in 2009 and has volunteered 17,500 hours. Cagle greets patients and families at Welcome A and Welcome D, is a chairperson for Welcome D, a courier team leader and a member of the awards committee. She also has served two years as director-at-large on the Volunteer Association Board.

Adrian Borel has been with the hospital for nearly 28 years and has accumulated more than 15,000 hours of service. Borel worked for 26 years in the pharmacy, and two years ago started working in materials management making deliveries throughout the hospital.

He received the Five Star Award in 2014 and the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award from former President George W. Bush in 2008.

Real-time online scheduling launches
New and existing patients of Bayfront Health Medical Group now have anytime access to make an appointment online, with select medical providers.

Bayfront Health Medical Group, affiliated with Bayfront Health Dade City, is among the first health care providers in the area to offer a real-time online booking service.

Individuals now have 24-hour-a-day, seven-day-a-week access to check availability and schedule an appointment, using a mobile device or a PC through MyBayfrontHealth.com.

The free, online service also can help patients gain access to appointments that open up on a doctor’s calendar due to last-minute cancellations and reschedules.

Providers available for the service are Dr. Elizabeth John, internal medicine; Dr. Kozhimala John, internal medicine; Dr. Fernando Morales, primary care; Dr. Kousalya Sara, pediatrics; Dr. Joseph Nystrom, family practice; nurse practitioner Barrie McCrimmon, family practice; and, nurse practitioner Mark Roque, family practice.

Most providers are expected to be available for online booking in the future.

Maternity Suites celebrate one year
Oak Hill Hospital in Spring Hill celebrated the first anniversary of the opening of its Maternity Suites. On opening day June 7, 2016, two boys were delivered to separate parents. Since then, 607 babies have been delivered by OB/GYN physicians and certified midwives at the hospital.

The Maternity Suites is a 22,000-sq.-ft. facility, which includes six labor and delivery suites, 10 postpartum recovery suites, two antepartum labor suites, a cesarean surgical suite, and a 12-position holding nursery for babies who need special monitoring or continuous observation.

In addition, there are board-certified specialty nurses and other professional support staff on-site 24 hours a day, seven days a week; a lactation specialist; next-generation amenities, including the latest industry standards for patient monitoring and an advanced baby security system; and, wireless fetal monitoring.

NAMI support meetings
The Pasco County Chapter of NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) offers two types of support group meetings every month.

The NAMI Connection Recovery Support Group is a structured closed group, open only to those with a mental illness diagnosis. The group is for individuals age 18 and older, who are interested in the recovery process, sharing coping skills and being with others who understand the daily challenges of living with a mental illness. The group is facilitated by trained peers.

The NAMI Family Support Group is for family members and caregivers of an adult with a mental illness diagnosis.

The support meetings cover all brain disorders including, but not limited to, OCD, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, multiple personalities and more.

For information, call (727) 992-9653, or visit NamiPasco.org.

Family seeks help for their 5-year-old son

July 5, 2017 By Kevin Weiss

Priscilla Avila-Posey knew early on her son, Julian, was unique from others.

He looks like a typical 5-year-old, but suffers from many severe developmental and medical issues.

He has a rare micro-chromosome deletion that has been diagnosed as autism.

He is stuck mentally at the level of a toddler. He suffers from mixed expressive receptive language disorder, auditory processing disorder, sensory processing disorder and severe anxiety.

Julian Posey is pictured with his father, Mike, and mother, Priscilla. The 5-year-old suffers from many severe developmental and medical issues, including a rare micro-chromosome deletion that has been diagnosed as autism.
(Kevin Weiss)

He cannot talk, potty train, dress himself or brush his teeth.

He cannot attend school, either.

For treatment, Julian sees multiple therapists — speech, occupational, physical and applied behavioral analysis — totaling about 46 hours each week.

But, that’s not enough.

To develop the skills he needs for a normal life, additional therapy is needed at the family’s Zephyrhills home, his mother said.

However, the family’s insurance plan won’t cover the therapeutic equipment that’s needed.

Avila-Posey was forced to quit her part-time job in 2014 in order to care for Julian. Her husband, Mike, works full-time.

To help with the family’s financial needs, Avila-Posey created a GoFundMe page in May.

She set a goal of $3,000 to purchase eight items, ranging from a sensory pod to a therapeutic listening program.

She didn’t expect any donations.

But, by June 30, more than $1,300 had been raised.

Donations have poured in from friends, family members, and former teachers at Zephyrhills High School.

Even perfect strangers have pitched in.

“It was very nice to see the reaction we got, and to see that people cared,” Avila-Posey said. “It makes me happy, because I know somebody is taking time out of their day to think about him.”

Already, the Posey family has used funds to purchase a Yogibo, for deep sensory input; a platform swing and stand, for sensory integration; and, a bubble column, used as a calming mechanism during therapy.

“We didn’t want people to think that we’re just asking for money,” Avila-Posey said. “We’re fine with donations, second-hand — if anybody even wanted to have us purchase them at like a cheaper rate or reused, we’re all for that.”

Besides cognitive handicaps, Julian also has numerous health problems.

Perhaps the worst is erythromelalgia, a rare condition characterized by episodes of pain, redness and swelling in various parts of the body, particularly the hands and feet.

The episodes are usually triggered by increased body temperature, which may be caused by exercise or entering a warm room.

In the Florida heat, especially the summer, Julian can only be outside for a few minutes at a time before symptoms arise.

“He has to play somewhere where there’s A/C, in order to be physically active,” Avila-Posey explained.

Julian also suffers from asthma, acid reflux, chronic constipation, chronic sinusitis, allergies, an immune system deficiency and gait disturbance.

All told, Julian sees over eight specialists for his health issues, and has already undergone six surgeries.

He goes to doctor’s appointments all over the place — from Zephyrhills to Odessa, to St. Petersburg and Orlando.

“If it’s not one thing, it’s literally the other,” Avila-Posey said.

“It’s been like nonstop. He almost doesn’t catch a break.”

Avila-Posey acknowledges there are “bad days,” when her son screams and cries endlessly — with no solution to console him.

“It’s so sad,” she said, “because it almost makes you think you’re not doing something right because you can’t fix it.”

Formerly a childcare day care professional, Avila-Posey had experience working with special needs adolescents.

That, she said, has made caring for her son “a lot less scary.”

Still, it breaks her heart to see him struggle.

The hardest obstacle, she said, is Julian’s limited understanding.

“Some days he doesn’t know what you’re saying to him,” she said.

Forming a bond with Julian wasn’t automatic from birth.

“I had to earn that,” Avila-Posey explained. “It took years to form that bond, and it’s super strong now.

“I feel like that makes it even more special, because I had to work for it. It wasn’t unconditional. It is now, but I had to establish that.”

For the most part, Julian is a happy, fun-loving boy.

It’s evident when he visits entertainment centers like Chuck E. Cheese’s, Bangin’ Bungee Kidz Zone and 2Infinity Extreme Air Sports.

He also gets a kick out of movie monsters, dinosaurs, minions and superheroes, Avila-Posey said.

“He’s got a cute little sense of humor,” she said, joyfully. “He’s got like 20 different laughs.”

Meanwhile, her son’s various obstacles create a whole new perspective on life.

“It almost humbles you a little bit,” Avila-Posey said. “It makes you step back and take a check at your attitude, like, ‘Really, what are you complaining about today? Is your day that hard?’”

In caring for Julian, Avila-Posey takes one day at a time, finding ways to make his life easier.

She also maintains her faith in him, regardless what others may say.

“Sometimes you’re your only child’s advocate and cheerleader,” she said. “Always be their voice.”

To donate, visit GoFundMe.com/supportbabyjulian.
The Posey family will also accept second-hand items, including an adaptive stroller, tablet, therapeutic listening program, climb and slide, sensory pod, crash pad and abilitation jigglers.

Published July 5, 2017

Health News 07/05/2017

July 5, 2017 By Mary Rathman

Excellence in Nursing awards
The Medical Center of Trinity has recognized two nurses who demonstrate excellence in professional mentoring and compassionate care.

Michelle Sparks, RN, received the Excellence in Nursing Professional Mentoring Award. Sparks has been employed at the hospital for four years, and has taken on the role of mentor and preceptor for 5 West Oncology.

Gregory Kennedy, RN, received the Excellence in Nursing Compassionate Care Award. Kennedy has been employed at the hospital for four years, and is the nursing manager for 2 West. His attention to detail, ability to empathize and genuine concern for those in his care are inherent to him.

New vice president of operations
Oak Hill Hospital has appointed Cathy Edmisten as its new vice president of operations, replacing Alejandro Romero, who has transferred to the Medical Center of Trinity.

Edmisten has a background in emergency services, nursing operations, nursing administration and nursing finance.

She has lived in Spring Hill for 30 years and has had a wide range of health care management positions, including assistant chief nursing officer at Oak Hill Hospital; chief nursing officer/director of clinical services at University Community Health Long Term Acute Care Hospital in Connerton; director of nursing support operations at University Community Hospital in Tampa; director of operations at Woodruff & Company in Brooksville; charge nurse at Oak Hill Hospital’s emergency department; and, 2010-2011 Kiwanis Club of Nature Coast president.

LifeLink board appointment
The LifeLink Legacy Fund, a nonprofit community service organization dedicated to the mission of the LifeLink Foundation, has announced Dr. Thomas C. Pearson as a new member to its Board of Directors.

Pearson, an Atlanta-based physician, is currently director of the Emory Transplant Center’s Kidney Transplant Program. He also is a professor of surgery for Emory University and an affiliate scientist at the Yerkes Division of Pathobiology and Immunobiology, both in Atlanta.

Pearson steps into the board position previously held by Dr. John Whelchel, who served with the Fund for five years.

Frist Humanitarian award
The Medical Center of Trinity has honored Lizette Otero, director of nursing for the Progressive Care Unit/Cardiovascular Care Unit, with the Frist Humanitarian Employee Award.

Otero has served at the hospital for more than a decade, and has been a member of the Women’s Orthopedic Global Outreach for four years. Otero also uses her vacation time for medical trips.

The Frist award, created in 1971, honors outstanding individuals for humanitarian and volunteer service. The award is named for Dr. Thomas Frist Sr., founder of HCA and renowned humanitarian.

Battle of the Belts award
Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point has awarded a $500 prize to the students at Ridgewood High School for the “most improved safety belt use” while driving in the “Battle of the Belts.”

The program, with partner Safe Kids of Pasco County, was initiated in an effort to change the statistics and increase seatbelt use.

There were several award categories such as highest seatbelt use, most improved seatbelt use, best school campaign, best public service announcement, best poster and best essay.

Nonprofit of the Year
The Crisis Center of Tampa Bay has been recognized as the 2017 Nonprofit of the Year in the crisis resources category, by the Tampa Bay Business Journal.

The Nonprofit of the Year awards recognize Tampa Bay nonprofit organizations in a number of categories, including arts, culture and humanities; crisis resources; education; and, environment and animals.

NAMI support meetings
The Pasco County Chapter of NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) offers two types of support group meetings every month.

The NAMI Family Support Group is for family members and caregivers of an adult with a mental illness diagnosis.

The support meetings cover all brain disorders including, but not limited to, OCD, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, multiple personalities and more.

For information, call (727) 992-9653, or visit NamiPasco.org.

Medication can reverse effects of opioid overdoses

June 28, 2017 By Kathy Steele

As communities across the nation struggle with an opioid epidemic, there’s a medication — that’s not widely known — that can reverse the effects of an overdose and save lives. Its generic name is naloxone.

About 75 people attended a June 15 seminar on opioid addiction and the benefits of naloxone moderated by Judge Shawn Crane, who presides in the sixth circuit.

Law enforcement officers, health care providers and a local pharmacist shared their expertise during a panel discussion. People recovering from addiction or helping family members to recover also shared their insights.

More than 75 people attended a seminar on opioid addiction and the medication, known as naloxone, which can save lives during overdoses. Pasco County Alliance for Substance Abuse Preventions sponsored the event. (Kathy Steele)

Pasco County Alliance for Substance Abuse Prevention (ASAP) sponsored the seminar at St. George Greek Orthodox Church in New Port Richey.

The opioid epidemic is widely known.

Data from the United States Department of Health and Human Services estimates more than 650,000 prescriptions of opioid pain pills are dispensed daily. While the United States accounts for about 5 percent of the world’s population, Americans consume more than 80 percent of the world’s opioid supply.

China is a major manufacturer of illicit opioids, such as fentanyl and its derivatives.

Since 1999, the rate of deaths from opioid overdoses has quadrupled, including deaths from illegal use of heroin and other opioid synthetics, according to health and human services statistics.

On average 78 people in the country die every day from an opioid-related overdose, the department reports.

Health care providers and law enforcement officers are trying to spread the word that naloxone can reverse the effects of an overdose.

While the medication doesn’t eliminate the need for emergency medical care and treatment, it can save lives.

Naloxone is available to anyone at area pharmacies, and can be administered as an injection or through a nasal spray.

Crane and law enforcement officers agreed that the most prevalent drug of choice among addicts is methamphetamine.

“It’s cheap,” Crane said.

But, there is an increase in opioid pain medications from prescriptions or their synthetics. The use of heroin also is on the increase.

“It’s important that people know law enforcement understands that we can’t arrest our way out of the problem,” said Sherryl Johnson-Tandy, a corporal with the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office. “Drug addiction is a public health issue.”

Every Pasco deputy, as of April, carries naloxone as a nasal spray – sold under the name Narcan. The deputies can use the spray as first responders on the scene, without waiting for emergency medical personnel to arrive.

“We have a unique opportunity to make contact with people who are in their greatest need,” said Pasco Sheriff’s Capt. Michael Jenkins. “In an overdose, every second counts. It was a no-brainer for us.”

Johnson-Tandy said Narcan also is a protection for first responders.

During investigations, officers, or their K-9 partners, can inadvertently ingest or inhale opioids. Especially dangerous are the opioid synthetics, fentanyl or carfentanil. They could have an overdose and need Narcan immediately. Emergency medics also are at risk.

Cesar Rodriguez is a recovering addict, and serves on the ASAP Recovery Committee. He used heroin for about seven years, and nearly died from an overdose. Naloxone saved him, he said.

There is a stigma attached to addiction, but Rodriguez said, “We do recover and become productive members of society. We can turn around and help the next recovering addict.”

Naloxone also saved Lisa Conca’s son, who has been in and out of rehabilitation programs for about eight years. In years of seeking help, Conca said no one ever told her about naloxone. “I just want to pay it forward and help our community,” she said. “It’s a disease of the brain, not a moral failing. Every life deserves a chance.”

Kent Runyon likened naloxone to the automated emergency defibrillators. The portable devices save people who are having heart attacks, and can be found in public places, such as offices, gymnasiums or shopping malls, he said.

People can keep naloxone doses at work, at home, or in a purse.

“We need to do everything we can to put every tool in the box to help people live,” said Runyon, who is vice president of community relations for Novus Medical.

Asking for naloxone at any pharmacy is easy, said Ashley Huff, a Walgreen’s pharmacist.

Some health insurance plans pay for it; others don’t. But pharmacies treat naloxone requests in the same way as flu shot requests, she said.

“We don’t ask any questions,” Huff said. “Anyone can get it, and get as many prescriptions as you want, as long as you are willing to pay for them.”

A nasal spray kit, with two nasal sprays, can cost about $135. But, doses for injection can be about $20 each, although two doses are recommended, Huff said.

In some cases, one dose won’t be enough and a second would be administered soon after.

The most expensive medication is sold as Evzio at a cost of more than $4,500. It is an auto-injector, similar to the Epi-pen that is sold to people with asthma.

People with addictions aren’t the only ones who should get naloxone, Huff added. Anyone who gets an opioid prescription should consider naloxone — as a precaution against an accidental overdose, she said.

Published June 28, 2017

Using food to fight aging effects

June 28, 2017 By Kevin Weiss

They learned about ‘superfoods,’ and then they cooked with them.

Humana Zephyrhills hosted a nutrition talk and cooking demonstration for seniors on June 12, focusing on foods that may help fight the effects of aging.

Impacts from aging can include vision and memory loss, decreased brain function, and other chronic health problems such as heart disease and high blood pressure.

Jen Wead, a Zephyrhills-based caterer, exhibited the ease of preparing quick, superfood-based recipes from scratch. She used a compact culinary station to create a grilled tuna and bean salad, and strawberry-ricotta, whole-grain bruschetta. (Kevin Weiss)

During the interactive discussion, a roomful of guests studied the various health benefits of 10 types of superfoods, including, berries; cold-water, fatty fish; extra-virgin olive oil; dark, leafy greens; nuts and seeds; legumes; whole grains; sweet potatoes; plain yogurt; and, dark chocolate.

Superfoods, considered to be especially beneficial for health and well-being, are usually rich in antioxidants — chemicals believed to help protect the body from the damaging effects of free radicals.

Antioxidants are present in foods in the form of vitamins, minerals, flavonoids and polyphenols.

Rhea Paul, a Humana health educator, offered numerous tips on incorporating superfoods into daily diets, while highlighting the importance of doing so.

Though impossible to completely stop aging, Paul noted superfoods can “help slow down the disease process.”

As a general rule, she said produce in “dark, deep, rich, vibrant colors” contains the most antioxidants.

Blueberries and strawberries, kale and broccoli, and sweet potatoes are some examples.

Spinach, turnips and mustard greens are others.

“You want a rainbow a day when you’re eating your food,” Paul said. “That’s really, really important.”

Paul explained fresh or frozen — opposed to canned or processed — fruits and veggies are the ideal option, to avoid added preservatives and other harmful substances.

“When you get your (fruits), don’t get the sweetened kind. You don’t want them to have the sugar added to it,” Paul advised.

“You have to be very careful about reading labels.”

From easy-to-make smoothies and salads, to topping off on cereals, Paul said, “the possibilities are endless” for incorporating fruits and veggies, daily.

Paul also went into detail about other superfoods, including plain, unsalted nuts (walnuts, almonds, hazelnuts, pecans, pistachios) and legumes (beans, peas, lentils).

Each provide excellent sources of plant-based protein and fiber — which Paul noted is lacking in typical American diets.

They can seamlessly be supplemented to soups, salads, pastas and crockpot dishes.

They’re economical, too.

“It’s great if you’re on a budget,” Paul said, “because you can get a bag of dried beans, and it could last.”

Besides preventing age-related issues, the listed superfoods can help lower bad cholesterol levels and stabilize blood sugar levels, to maintain a healthy weight.

But, even with all the benefits, Paul warned foods should be eaten in moderation — especially high-caloric olive oil and dark chocolate, plus fish, whole grains and yogurt.

“You don’t need a lot,” she warned.

Paul suggests eating the smallest meal of the day in the evening, and drinking plenty of water to properly absorb vitamins and minerals.

She also recommends consulting a doctor regarding the right amount of certain nutrients, before making drastic dietary changes.

After the lecture, it was time to cook.

Chef Jen Wead, a Zephyrhills-based caterer, exhibited the ease of preparing quick, superfood-based recipes from scratch.

She used a compact culinary station — equipped with a George Foreman grill and toaster oven — to craft a grilled tuna and bean salad, and strawberry-ricotta, whole-grain bruschetta.

Both dishes were served in less than 45 minutes combined.

And, they were packed with nutrients.

Wead operates Catering by The Rose and teaches monthly healthy cooking classes for Humana community locations in Central Florida, including Kissimmee, Port Richey and Spring Hill.

She said cooking healthily can be done inexpensively, despite conventional belief.

Buying in bulk and purchasing seasonal produce helps keep costs down, she said.

The tuna steaks used in the salad recipe, for example, were purchased for less than $2 each.

“It’s not really accurate to say it’s more expensive to eat healthy,” she said. “If you do it correctly, it isn’t.”

Eating healthy can also be fun, by putting your own spin on recipes.

Wead, for instance, substituted brown sugar with honey and used skim milk ricotta cheese on the bruschetta.

She also substituted basil with mint.

“There are no rules,” she stated. “Get crazy with it.”

Wead, meanwhile, provided some tips on cooking for just one or two people.

She advises keeping it simple —using five ingredients or less per dish, and staying organized — keeping a list, and labeling freezer bags and Tupperware.

She also suggests following the FIFO (First In, First Out) principle. “Make things you don’t mind having leftovers the next day,” she said.

Those looking for healthy recipes, Wead recommends PickledPlum.com, Food.com and FoodNetwork.com.

Humana community locations are open to the public Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. For information on events, programs and activities at Humana’s Zephyrhills location, visit Humana.com/ZephyrhillsCommunity.

Published June 28, 2017

Health News 06/28/2017

June 28, 2017 By Mary Rathman

Hospital recognizes nurses, doctor
The Medical Center of Trinity has given its Nurse of the Year and New Nurse of the Year awards.

Mitchell Jessie, RN, Behavioral Health Services, has been honored as the Nurse of the Year. Jessie puts patient needs first and has been identified as a top performer in patient surveys, and is perhaps the most complimented of all staff members. Team members admire him for his skills of empathy and his sunny disposition, sense of humor, and the ability to make everyone laugh.

Shawna Mulherin, RN, is the New Nurse of the Year. Mulherin has served on 4 West for seven months. She has displayed professionalism, responsiveness and teamwork in all her interactions with staff and patients.

The hospital also has named Dr. Dwayne Ledesma, general and vascular surgeon, as Physician of the Year. The award is nurses’ choice based on integrity, professionalism, accountability, responsiveness, teamwork, nurturing, empathy and respect.

Ledesma received his medical degree from Northwestern University Medical School and completed his residency at Baylor University, and fellowships at Union Memorial Center for vascular intervention in Baltimore and the University of Texas.

Volunteer award winners
Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point awarded its first quarter volunteer Star Awards.

Elizabeth Celia, Five Star winner, has volunteered at the hospital for more than two years with 4,600 hours of service. Celia helps on special projects, has served as chairperson for comfort carts, and is currently a courier and helps make heart pillows for patients.
Ted Zapoliski, Five Star, has volunteered for more than three years with 1,200 hours of service as a courier, two shifts a week.
Midge Nelson, Five Star, has been a volunteer for six years with 2,500 hours of service as a courier, taking extra open shifts.
Dorothy Cassels, One Star, has volunteered since 2007 with 1,600 hours of service in the CSU waiting room and the CPRU waiting rooms.
Nancy McCann, One Star, has been a volunteer since October 2000 with more than 3,600 hours of service working in the hospital’s gift shop.

Grants for opioid crisis
U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis (FL-12) has commended new efforts to combat the nation’s opioid crisis with more than $70 million in grant funding to help communities and health care providers prevent overdose and treat addiction.

Florida state and local government, as well as non-government organizations, are eligible to apply.

The grants are authorized by the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act, legislation supported by Bilirakis in Congress, and will be administered through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.

For information on the grants, visit HHS.gov.

To apply for a grant, visit SAMHSA.gov.

Special Doctor Service Award
Dr. Pariksith Singh, CEO of Access Health Care Physicians, was recognized with an award from iLa. Ganeshan, a member of Parliament in India, for his outstanding contributions toward health care.

The award is called the Shreshtha Vaidya Seva Ratna Award, or the Special Doctor Service Award, and was presented to Singh in the presence of his Holiness Swami Brahmayogananda, Founder Acharya, Yoga Shanthi Gurukulam, Chennai, India.

Ganeshan is an Indian politician and senior leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party.

Health News 06/21/2017

June 22, 2017 By Mary Rathman

Brewfest raises $7,500 for hospice
The inaugural Brewfest for Hospice raised $7,500 to benefit Gulfside Hospice patients and families. Guests had the opportunity to make a toast and raise a glass on stage in memory of a loved one, for a donation to Gulfside. There also was a silent auction, as well as a grand prize ticket drawing. The Jase Randall Band entertained, while the crowd sampled beer and wine.

Oak Hill welcomes Dr. Brian Hudson
Dr. Brian Hudson, osteopathic medicine and pharmacy, has joined the Oak Hill Hospital family.

Hudson’s experience includes a fellowship in neurosurgical oncology at Moffitt Cancer Center in 2015; an enfolded fellowship in neuro trauma at the University of Illinois College of Medicine in Chicago, Advocate Christ Medical Center; and, an enfolded fellowship in trauma and neuro critical care at the University of Illinois College of Medicine.

He completed his residency at A.T. Still University/Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine, Advocate Health Care in Illinois; a residency at Clinical Pharmacology Services in Tampa; and, received his Doctor of Osteopathic medicine degree from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine in Bradenton and his Doctor of Pharmacy from Nova Southeastern University College of Pharmacy in Fort Lauderdale.

Hudson practices at two locations: one in Brooksville, and one at 16541 Pointe Village Drive, Suite 209, in Lutz.

For information, call (813) 336-4461.

New director of ER services
Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point has appointed Walter E. Weston as director of emergency services.

Weston comes to RMCBP from Tampa Community Hospital where he also served as director of emergency services and the intensive care unit since 2011.

He has more than 14 years of clinical nursing experience in emergency/trauma medicine.

Weston has a Bachelor of Science degree in health science from Saint Mary’s College of California; a national registered EMT-P certification from Western Medical Institute in San Jose, California; and, an Associate Degree of Nursing from Excelsior College in Albany, New York.

He also is certified in basic life support, advanced cardiac life support, pediatric advanced life support, crisis prevention institute training, and disaster management.

Weston is a member of the Emergency Nurses Association.

Safety during the summer
Shriners Hospitals for Children is a leader in orthopedic conditions, spinal cord injuries, burns and other specialty care, and wants parents to remind kids of simple precautions for a summer of safety.

At the playground, slide feet first, and swing sitting down.
Keep children inside when lawn mowers are in use.
Keep at least 3 feet away from fire pits, campfires or grills.
Swim only when an adult is present, and wear lifejackets on open water.
Protect yourself from the sun with hats and sunscreen.

For additional safety tips, flyers and activity pages for children, visit ShrinersHospitalsForChildren.org/safesummer.

Capital City Bank donates to Sertoma
Sam Shrieves, the market president of Capital City Bank, presented $250 to the Sertoma Speech & Hearing Foundation, to be used for program services.

The bank has supported Sertoma services in Pasco, Hernando and Citrus counties for almost 20 years.

The mission of the Sertoma Speech & Hearing Foundation is to enhance individual potential and quality of life through better hearing.

For information, visit FamilyHearingHealth.org.

Bayfront receives accreditation
The American College of Cardiology has recognized Bayfront Health Dade City for its demonstrated expertise and commitment in treating patients with chest pain.

Bayfront Health Dade City was awarded Chest Pain Center Accreditation with Primary PCI and Resuscitation based on rigorous onsite evaluation of the staff’s ability to evaluate, diagnose and treat patients who may be experiencing a heart attack.

Hospitals that have earned this accreditation are required to meet the criteria of the accreditation designation, complying with standard Chest Pain Center protocols and being equipped with a hypothermia program for post-cardiac arrest treatment.

Health News 06/14/2017

June 14, 2017 By Mary Rathman

Staywell honors NAMI for commitment
Staywell, a WellCare company, recognized NAMI Pasco (National Alliance on Mental Illness) as its community partner for the month of May. NAMI was recognized for its hard work, commitment and dedication to serving families in the region. Staywell also donated meeting space for NAMI Connection Support Groups. From left: Michael Piper and Michelle Gesaman, NAMI; Emily Fregger, office coordinator Staywell; and, Meghan Shattuck, Beth Piecora and Toni Roach, NAMI. NAMI info line: (727) 992-9653. (Courtesy of Nancy Whitener)

Donate to medical mission
Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church in Land O’ Lakes is collecting for Operation Haiti, a medical mission. Items needed are old medication bottles (remove labels and rinse), and supplies for hygiene kits, including shampoo, toothpaste and toothbrushes. Hotel sizes cannot be accepted.

A bin at the church entrance, 2348 Collier Parkway, will be available for donations.

For information, call (813) 949-4565.

Seminar sheds light on skin cancer

June 7, 2017 By Kevin Weiss

His skin cancer diagnosis was a wake-up call to be more careful around the Florida sun.

Dr. George Hanak was blindsided when he first was stricken with skin cancer, and he’s not shy about sharing his personal battle with the disease.

“I was shocked when I got the report,” said Hanak, the department chair of neurological sciences at Pasco-Hernando State College’s Porter Campus in Wesley Chapel.

Pasco-Hernando State College presented a Skin Cancer Awareness Seminar on May 24 at its Porter Campus in Wesley Chapel. (Courtesy of Pasco-Hernando State College)

The associate professor was a featured speaker during the school’s Skin Cancer Awareness Seminar on May 24.

The seminar was part of a series the state college organized to increase public awareness regarding a variety of resources available to community members.

Over two years ago, a standard histology revealed two types of non-melanoma skin cancer — squamous cell carcinoma and basal cell carcinoma — had formed on the tip of Hanak’s nose.

From the naked eye, Hanak couldn’t detect the carcinomas.

It wasn’t apparent, either, that the cancerous cells already penetrated through his dermis — the inner layer of the two main layers of cells that make up the skin.

“I didn’t know. It did not look like (skin cancer),” Hanak said.

Luckily, the department chairman visited a dermatologist before the carcinomas spread further.

Now, he has a clean bill of health — because of Mohs micrographic surgery.

The surgery progressively removes and examines thin layers of cancer-containing skin until only cancer-free tissue remains.

Hanak doesn’t take his good health for granted.

Now, he takes added precautions, beginning with copious amounts of sunscreen—even when just running errands.

He encourages others to do the same.

“I put it on my face every day,” Hanak said. “When I’m going out into the car or to the store, cumulatively, over the time of the day I could be outdoors for 30 minutes or more.

“It’s really important,” he said.

Skin cancer is common nationwide.

According to the American Cancer Society, more than 5.4 million skin cancers are diagnosed each year in the United States — more than all other cancers combined. Non-melanoma skin cancer is the most common of all cancer types.

The American Cancer Society reports that most skin cancers are caused by the sun’s ultraviolet light and radiation, which alter the genetic material of skin cells.

The skin is the body’s largest organ, and also one of the most vital.

However, many don’t treat it that way.

“We, for the most part, take our skin for granted,” Hanak said. “We never think about the skin.”
Regions of the body most susceptible to skin cancer are the face, ears, neck, lip, back of hands, legs, and torso.

Those with freckles and fair skin, or who have a family history of skin cancer should be especially cautious.

Folks on antihistamines also should be careful, too, as they can compromise the skin and increase the potential for skin cancer.

Moles are another risk factor, especially ones that irregularly change in shape, size, or color.

“You never mess with a mole,” Hanak said.

“Leave it (the mole) alone, or have it removed if there are changes happening to it. If there’s a hair inside the mole, you do not pluck that hair. You do that and you’re opening up Pandora’s box,” Hanak warned.

Early detection makes all forms of skin cancer more treatable.

It’s why self-exams and regular checkups to a dermatologist are critical.

“I don’t care if you see anything or not — go to the specialist and have them check you — head to toe,” Hanak said.

Unfortunately, there’s no sure way to entirely prevent skin cancer, he said.

But, there are precautions that can help reduce the risk of both melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers.

Linda Oakley-Hankins, an associate professor of nursing at PHSC’s West Campus, advised those attending the seminar to follow Cancer.org’s sun exposure catchphrase: “Slip! Slop! Slap! and Wrap!”

The catchphrase is meant to help people remember some of the key steps that can be taken to shield against UVA and UVB ultraviolet (UV) rays.

They can slip on a dark shirt; slop on broad-spectrum sunscreen every two hours; slap on a wide-brimmed hat; and wrap on sunglasses to protect the eyes and skin around them.

Besides skin cancer, overexposure to UV rays can result in sunburns, dark patches, wrinkles, loose skin, premature aging and eye problems.

During the seminar, Oakley-Hankins warned against the use of tanning salons.

She also suggested people — especially Floridians — seek shade between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

“What you do to your skin now,” she said, “will either be a benefit or a non-benefit later on in life.”

Published June 6, 2017

Health News 06/07/2017

June 7, 2017 By Mary Rathman

Moose Lodge donates $1,000
Club members of Moose Lodge 2275 in Zephyrhills raised $1,000 through bingo nights, and a matching donation from the Moose Lodge, to donate to Gulfside Hospice. Since 2013, the lodge has given more than $3,000 in support of Gulfside to show appreciation for the quality care given to several of its club members over the past years. From left: Chuck Plourd, Carla Armstrong and Larry Glass.

WellCome OM center
A groundbreaking took place for the WellCome OM Integral Healing & Education Center at 4242 Lake in the Woods Drive in Spring Hill.

The center’s goal will be to provide instruction and guidance on how to achieve successful outcomes in all aspects of living.

The center’s vision statement is: WellCome OM is a “collective effort of conscious energies to awaken, educate, nurture and heal. Herein lies a combination of exceptional talent, wisdom and skill in order to make a positive difference where totality of health is the goal,” according to a news release.

WellCome OM will have three buildings to include an auratorium, yoga exercise studio with a demonstration kitchen, and a wellness center.

There also will be flower and butterfly gardens, organic vegetable and herb gardens, a greenhouse and aquaponics system, nature paths, play areas for children, and more.

Natalya Musallam has been named executive administrative assistant for the project. For information and questions, contact Musallam at (352) 606-2937 or .

NAMI support groups
The Pasco County Chapter of NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) offers two types of support group meetings each month.

The NAMI Connection Recovery Support Group is a structured closed group, open only to those with a mental illness diagnosis. This group is for individuals age 18 and older, interested in the recovery process, sharing coping skills, and being with others who understand the daily challenges of living with a mental illness.

Local meetings are the second and fourth Friday of the month from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., at Atonement Lutheran Church, 29617 State Road 54 in Wesley Chapel.

The NAMI Family Support Group is for family members and caregivers of someone with a mental illness diagnosis.

The family group also meets at Atonement Lutheran Church the first and third Tuesday of the month from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

For information, call (727) 992-9653, or visit NAMIPasco.org.

Strength & balance classes
Silver Sneaker strength and balance classes take place every Wednesday at 9 a.m., and every Friday at 10:30 a.m., in The Groves Golf and Country Club Civic Center in Land O’ Lakes.

The low-impact classes for men and women are designed to improve flexibility and balance, which helps prevent falls, broken hips and more.

The classes are free to Silver Sneakers members and $5 for non-members.

For information, contact Tom Marbell at (352) 409-2984 or .

Oak Hill Hospital announces graduates
Oak Hill Hospital has announced the 2017 class of Graduate Medical Education Program Internal Medicine residents:

Fatima Agha, Ross University School of Medicine
Salli Aziz, Mania University Faculty of Medicine
Lakshpaul Chauhan, Ross University School of Medicine
Venkatesh Gupta Cheetirala, Gandhi Medical College and Hospital, Secunderabad
Farrah Chilet, University of Sharjah College of Medicine
Rania Godil, Dow International Medical College
Alexander Gutierrez, St. George’s University
Arshad Iqbal, Jinnah Sindh Medical University
Salman Masood, Deccan College of Medical Sciences
Adeeb Mustafa, Spartan Health Sciences University School of Medicine
Salaah Siddiqui, Lincoln Memorial University-DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine
Zaid Tabbaa, Jordan University of Science and Technology Faculty of Medicine
Nour Tlimat, University of Sharjah College of Medicine
Fahad Zafar Allama, Iqbal Medical College

Oak Hill Hospital appoints 15 new residents each year. This is the fourth class of the Graduate Medical Education program.