Couple Becomes Family of Five after Birth of Rare Triplets

GREATER
lliving
iving
A GBMC PUBLICATION FOR
OUR COMMUNITY
Couple
Becomes
Family of Five
after Birth of
Rare Triplets
In Jarrettsville, It’s
All about Family
Protect Your
Sight from Diabetes
Complications
S P R I N G 2016
www.gbmc.org | GREATER living 1
content
8
SPRING 2016
10
Protect Your
Sight from Diabetes
Complications
3 Under Pressure: Hyperbaric Oxygen
Therapy Explained
4
FEATURE
6 In Jarrettsville, It’s All about Family
In My Words
7 GBMC News Briefs
Baltimore Couple Becomes
Family of Five after Birth of
Rare Identical Triplets
9 Living Healthy, Living Well
Who’s New and Promotions
10 “Every Day is a Good Day”
Now that Back Pain is Gone
11 Calendar of Events
12 GBMC Philanthropy
Read and comment on
the official GBMC blog at
http://ahealthydialogue.blogspot.com
2 GREATER living |
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Follow GBMC on Twitter
twitter.com/GBMCHealthCare
Watch the GBMC Channel
youtube.com/user/GBMCMedia
hyperbarics
Under Pressure
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Explained
A
fter Kelly Campbell had surgery in April 2015, she was recovering
well and healing with no complications. Things changed suddenly
three weeks after surgery when she began to have debilitating
symptoms. Ms. Campbell told her doctor about the high fever,
extreme fatigue and intense pain she was experiencing, and was
immediately referred to Richard Franklin, MD, a board-certified
general surgeon at GBMC specializing in wound care and hyperbaric
oxygen therapy (HBOT).
“I was so sick before I saw Dr. Franklin that I could hardly walk,”
says Ms. Campbell. “I had no energy whatsoever.”
Dr. Franklin diagnosed Ms. Campbell with a compromised flap,
a condition that can occur in procedures where a flap of skin is
raised to close an incision and the body rejects the skin. Skin flaps
are commonly used in ventral hernia repairs, skin cancer removal
and plastic surgery procedures such as face lifts or, in Ms. Campbell’s
case, breast surgery.
“When the flap becomes compromised, tissue necrotizes, or
dies, and is rapidly lost,” Dr. Franklin explains, noting that for Ms.
Campbell, this was impeding blood flow to the area, causing her
fever and fatigue. “The goal was to work quickly to save the tissue
and prevent further damage. I had Ms. Campbell start hyperbaric
oxygen therapy that afternoon.”
A compromised flap is often treated with HBOT, a type of treatment
in which patients breathe 100 percent oxygen in an enclosed chamber
at two to three times atmospheric pressure. Oxygen dissolves into
the blood plasma causing an increase in tissue oxygenation,
stimulating healing of tissues, forming new blood vessels,
controlling infections and regenerating new, healthy tissues.
A session in the
HBOT chamber lasts
about 90 minutes and
a technician remains
next to the chamber
the entire time. It takes
between 10-15 minutes
to adjust the pressure at
the beginning of the
Patient Kelly Campbell is now fully recovered following hyperbaric oxygen therapy.
end, and every patient’s level is different. “Our practice strictly
follows the guidelines set forth by the Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical
Society,” explains Thomas Arwady, Wound Care Consultant, noting
that the pressure in the chamber is similar to scuba diving.
If a patient expresses concerns about claustrophobia, sedation is
available by consultation with the physician; however, the chamber is
completely transparent, and flat-screen TVs are nearby for viewing an
extensive movie collection. In addition to compromised flaps and grafts,
the GBMC Hyperbaric Medicine Department is able to treat a number
of other hyperbaric indications such as diabetic foot ulcers, necrotizing
infections and osteomyelitis, osteoradionecrosis (bone damage
caused by radiation therapy) and other soft tissue radiation injuries.
Ms. Campbell’s treatment at the Wound Care Center involved 20
treatments in the hyperbaric chamber, followed by additional wound
care techniques until she was fully healed four months into treatment.
“I started feeling better after two weeks. Once the progression of the
necrosis stopped, I started to feel like myself again,” she says.
Dr. Franklin notes that Ms. Campbell could have required up to 12
months of routine wound care if she had not pursued hyperbaric
therapy, adding that she also could have lost both breasts if she had
not sought treatment right away.
“Dr. Franklin was absolutely wonderful,” says Ms. Campbell. “If it
wasn’t for his support, along with the staff and nurses, I don’t know
if I would have had such a great experience going through such a
hard time.”
treatment and to return
to normal pressure at the
Hyperbaric technician Lana
Ogbolu talks to patient
Kelly Campbell via the
hyperbaric oxygen chamber’s
communication system.
To learn more about GBMC’s Hyperbaric
Medicine Services, visit www.gbmc.org/
hyperbaricmedicine or call 443-849-GBMC (4262).
www.gbmc.org | GREATER living 3
in my words
Baltimore Couple Becomes Family of Five
after Birth of Rare Identical Triplets
Kristen and Tom Hewitt got the surprise of their lives when they learned they would become
parents — to identical triplets! The couple, married for four years, became an instant family of
five upon learning they would have three boys. This is their story, in their own words.
W
e always knew we wanted to have
is there more than one baby in there?”
4 lbs, 3oz; Finnegan “Finn” James at 3 lbs,
children. After Tom’s sister gave birth
When she told us there were three babies,
6 oz; and Oliver “Ollie” Dean at 3 lbs, 12 oz.
to a baby boy in March of 2015, she jokingly
we looked at each other in pure joy — and
Aside from Trip needing initial support with
said, “You guys are up next!” Oddly enough,
shock! Finding out we were having triplets,
breathing, the boys were all in great health
later that week Kristen took a pregnancy test
especially without any fertility treatments,
from the start.
and it was positive! We were thrilled to find
was a huge surprise! When we learned that
out we were expecting, since we had been
the babies were identical a few months later,
their arrival garnered a significant amount
trying to conceive for more than two years.
we knew this had to be something rare.
of media attention. It was honestly a bit
We had an ultrasound scheduled
When the boys were born, the news of
overwhelming! We knew the boys were
Kristen was scheduled for a Cesarean
during our first appointment at Perinatal
section on October 13; however, the boys
special from a statistical perspective, but did
Associates at GBMC. After the technician
decided to come early. After Kristen’s water
not realize how popular they would be in the
started moving the wand across Kristen’s
broke early in the morning on October 6,
news. When we saw ourselves on “Good
belly and looking at the screen, she didn’t
she was admitted for delivery that day. On
Morning America” and the front page of The
say anything for a while. Eventually, Tom
October 6, 2015, we welcomed our three
Baltimore Sun, we really had to step back and
broke the awkward silence by joking, “So,
sons: Thomas “Trip” Hewitt III, weighing in at
realize how unique our situation was. Things
have settled down for now; however, we do
get attention whenever we leave the
house. It’s not something we’re used to, but
Identical triplets Oliver, Finnegan and Thomas Hewitt
we haven’t really gone anywhere in public
with the boys except for short walks around
the neighborhood. We suspect when the
weather gets warmer and as the boys grow,
we’ll draw more attention!
The logistics of raising three identical
boys is a constant challenge. When we
first got home from the hospital, we used a
color-coding system Tom developed to tell
the boys apart. Now that the boys are nearly
Photo courtesy of Chaya Braun Photography
three months old [as of January 2016], the
4 GREATER living |
three are looking more and more identical
every day. It took some time, but we have
finally found our groove as parents of
multiples. We live four hours at a time. Everything revolves around those four
hours, in which over an hour is dedicated
to changings and feedings. Then it’s the
countdown to the next changing/feeding
session. Depending on the time of day, the
Photos courtesy of Chaya Braun Photography
Avid hockey fans, Kristen and Tom Hewitt have nicknamed their identical triplets “the Hewitt Hat Trick.” The boys already have personalized hockey sticks (right).
All the reading and planning doesn’t
“in-between” consists of stimulation and
care of us and the boys. The labor and
interaction with the boys, reading books
delivery nurses were so helpful and kept
prepare you for the determination needed
and of course, naps!
Kristen as comfortable as possible during
to raise triplets. The boys are truly a joy
One challenge we have run into is the
sheer volume of diapers and formula needed
for all the changing/feeding sessions! When
we purchased our home in Baltimore City’s
Hampden neighborhood, we had the addition
of one baby in mind! Storage for diapers and
formula for three babies in a rowhome is
We are specifically appreciative of our doctors at Perinatal
Associates, to include Dr. Victor Khouzami, Dr. Margaret Cyzeski
and Dr. Kristin Engorn. We also want to thank the labor and
delivery nurses and the NICU nurses.
— Kristen and Tom Hewitt
nonexistent, so we have frequent Amazon
the hospital stay. The NICU nurses took such
and a blessing to us, and that gives
great care of our boys and got them healthy
us strength. People often ask us how
To anyone who is reading this who has
enough to come home. We also appreciated
we’re adapting to life with triplets. Our
assisted us during our journey, we want to
all the tips and tricks we needed to start our
answer? We’re running on love and
say thank you. It seems like everyone who
lives as parents!
awe…and coffee.
deliveries to our house!
Our support system has been incredible.
has helped us went above and beyond
because they knew they were part of a
special situation, and we’re truly grateful
for that. We are specifically appreciative
of our doctors at Perinatal Associates, to
include Dr. Victor Khouzami, Dr. Margaret
Cyzeski and Dr. Kristin Engorn. We also
want to thank the labor and delivery nurses
For more information about Women’s Health at GBMC, including
Labor and Delivery, High-Risk Obstetrics, Neonatal Intensive
Care, Postpartum, Parent Education and Lactation Services, visit
www.gbmc.org/women or call 443-849-GBMC (4262). Follow the
Hewitt triplets at http://hewitthattrick.blogspot.com/ or
https://www.facebook.com/hewitthattrick/
and the NICU nurses. Everyone took great
www.gbmc.org | GREATER living 5
primary care
In Jarrettsville, It’s All about Family
S
ituated in scenic northern Harford County, Jarrettsville
when needed,” says Stacey Reed, practice manager. “There is always
Family Care is GBMC’s newest addition to its growing
a provider from our staff on call outside of normal hours.”
primary care network. While the practice only recently joined
All GBMC primary care physicians value the importance of preventive
the GBMC HealthCare system, it has long been part of the Greater
healthcare — including cancer screenings, vaccinations and physicals
Baltimore Health Alliance, GBMC’s Accountable Care Organization
— and offer the services of care coordinators to act as a liaison
(ACO), where the goal is to keep patients healthy and out of the
between physicians and patient. The patients at Jarrettsville Family
hospital. That goal closely aligned with Jarrettsville Family Care’s
Care have access to Care Coordinator John Cottrell, who connects
patient-centered philosophy, making its union with GBMC
them with resources and assists them with things such as managing
HealthCare, Inc. a perfect match.
prescriptions, navigating insurance paperwork and making follow-up
Physicians Mary Elizabeth Craig-Buckholtz, MD, and Linda A.
appointments. He also ensures that the physicians have their patients’
Walsh, MD, have practiced together for more than 15 years. They lead
records from specialists or hospitalizations. Care coordination helps
a robust team of employees, which includes advanced practitioners
to streamline care and prevent patients from wasting money and
Bridget Diehl, PA-C, and Kristen Jubb, PA-C, a care coordinator,
time on unnecessary testing or rehospitalization.
medical assistants and administrative staff. Dr. Craig-Buckholtz,
As family medicine physicians, Dr. Craig-Buckholtz and
who has been part of the team for 16 years, says, “We truly enjoy
Dr. Walsh see patients of all ages. “It’s really neat to watch children
our patients. We enjoy spending time with them.”
in the practice grow up. We see a lot of families in which we care for
“My philosophy has always been patient-driven,” says Dr. Walsh,
the parents, grandparents and kids,” says Dr. Craig-Buckholtz. Family
who joined the practice in 1997 and purchased it three years later,
medicine places an emphasis on treating the whole person. Dr. Walsh
remaining the owner until 2015. “The first challenge for me is to find
notes, “It’s our job to give patients all the information about their
out where the patients are in their desires and expectations, and
health. It’s their job to decide what they want to do with that.”
then develop a plan together for their health.”
The team understands that people have busy schedules, so
they’ve created a “one-stop-shop” of sorts for patients, offering
in-house lab work, onsite ultrasound availability by appointment
and extended hours in the mornings and evenings on select days.
The patient-centered medical home also has bilingual clinicians and
administrative staff available for the Spanish-speaking population.
Another added convenience for patients? A dedicated on-call provider
at all times. “It’s very important to us that patients can reach someone
6 GREATER living |
For more information about this and
other GBMC primary care physician
practices, visit www.mygbmcdoctor.com
or call 443-849-GBMC (4262).
news briefs
GBMC Earns Important Cancer Accreditations
GBMC has received Commission on Cancer Accreditation with Gold
Commendation and the 2015 Outstanding Achievement Award. The
Commission on Cancer (CoC), an official accreditation body of the
American College of Surgeons and nationally recognized as the standard
by which cancer programs are judged, awards this accreditation
after reviewing more than 35 different standards covering quality,
data collection, safety, nursing practice, organization, performance
improvement, research, community outreach and prevention. The
GBMC has also been recognized and accredited by the National
survey is performed every three years. GBMC HealthCare received
Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC). NAPBC, an
a perfect score for all standards. The Outstanding Achievement
official accreditation body of the American College of Surgeons
Award signifies that GBMC’s cancer program met the commendation
and nationally recognized as the standard by which breast centers
requirements for all seven commendation-eligible CoC standards
are judged, awards its accreditation after reviewing approximately
following the 2015 accreditation survey. GBMC is one of only 20 U.S.
15 different standards limited to breast centers and breast programs
healthcare facilities with accredited cancer programs to receive this
and covering similar categories to the CoC accreditation.
national honor for surveys performed January 1 - June 30, 2015.
GBMC Earns Healthcare Equality Index Recognition
For the second year in a row, GBMC has earned recognition as a leader in Lesbian, Gay,
GBMC Top Docs
Bisexual, Transgender (LGBT) healthcare equality by the Healthcare Equality Index (HEI).
For nearly 30 years,
This acknowledgement reinforces GBMC’s strides in HEI’s stringent core four leader
Baltimore magazine
criteria, which follow:
has asked area
1. Patient Non-Discrimination: GBMC’s Patient Bill of Rights is fully LGBT-inclusive
physicians to name
and includes both the terms “sexual orientation” and “gender identity.” The organization’s
the “best-of-the-best”
Patient Bill of Rights states that all patients have the right to “Receive considerate,
— those physicians
respectful and compassionate care regardless of your age, gender, race, national origin,
whom they believe to
religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression or disabilities.” Additionally,
be the experts in their
GBMC meets the requirement that the LGBT-inclusive patient non-discrimination policy
respective fields — for
is communicated to patients in at least two readily accessible ways.
the magazine’s annual “Top Docs”
2. Equal Visitation: GBMC’s visitation policy explicitly grants equal visitation to LGBT
patients and visitors. This policy is communicated to patients and visitors in at least
two readily accessible ways and states: “Whenever possible, GBMC supports our patients
having a family member, friend, a domestic partner, including same-sex domestic
partner, or other individual present for emotional support during the course of the stay.”
3. Employment Non-Discrimination: GBMC’s employment non-discrimination
policy (equal employment opportunity policy) is fully LGBT-inclusive and includes
both the terms “sexual orientation” and “gender identity.”
4. Training in LGBT Patient-Centered
edition. The results of the 2015
survey prove once again that
GBMC physicians are not only
trusted by their patients, but by
their peers alike. With 163 members
of our medical staff named to
the list in 80 specialties — more
specialties than ever before — GBMC
is proud to offer renowned medical
expertise and clinical excellence
Care: HEI-approved training in LGBT
within the setting of a community
patient-centered care has been provided
hospital. View the complete list of
to key staff members.
GBMC’s recognized physicians at
GBMC is proud to have met the
www.gbmc.org/topdocs.
criteria and sub-criteria in all four
categories! For more information
about HEI, visit www.hrc.org/hei.
www.gbmc.org | GREATER living 7
ophthalmology
Protect Your Sight from Diabetes Complications
Ophthalmologist Dr. Tanvi Shah prepares to
examine a patient.
can’t see as well as you should, you should
make an appointment for an exam with an
ophthalmologist,” says Dr. Shah. “The sooner
the problem is diagnosed, the sooner we
can start treatment to slow its progress and
preserve your vision.”
GBMC offers a number of effective
treatments for eye problems caused by
diabetes, such as
• Focused laser treatment to stop the
overgrowth of blood vessels and seal
leaking blood vessels in the retina
• Injections of medications into the eye that
slow the overgrowth of blood vessels and
reduce fluid leakage
• Surgery to remove scar tissue and fluid
I
f you’re at risk for diabetes or are living
pressure in the eye and causes fluid
with the disease, there’s one more item
build-up, which damages the retina and
you should add to your health to-do list —
getting regular eye exams. “Poorly controlled
optic nerve
While cataracts and glaucoma also affect
build-up in the eye
“The best strategy is to take preventive
steps to protect the health of your eyes.
Work with your primary care physician
blood sugar can lead to a number of eye
people who don’t have diabetes, if you’re
to get good, consistent control of your
problems, so it’s important to work with
living with this disease, you’re 60 percent
blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol
your primary care physician to make sure
more likely to develop cataracts and may
levels,” adds Dr. Shah. “One of the biggest
your A1C level, which reflects your average
develop them at a younger age. Patients
problems is that there are more than 8 million
blood sugar level over several months, is
who have diabetes are also 40 percent
people in the U.S. who have diabetes that is
in the appropriate target range,” explains
more likely to develop glaucoma.
undiagnosed. Since they’re not receiving
treatment to control their A1C, the disease
Tanvi M. Shah, MD, a board-certified
Symptoms you should know
can silently damage their eyes for years, so
Often, the earliest stages of eye problems
being proactive is important. If you’re at risk
several vision problems, including
caused by diabetes, including diabetic
for diabetes but have not been diagnosed
• Swelling of the eye’s lens, which causes
retinopathy, do not cause symptoms. “If you
with the disease, see your primary care
have fluctuating vision — sometimes it’s
physician for regular blood tests to monitor
blurry, sometimes it’s not — or if you simply
changes in your blood sugar level.”
ophthalmologist at GBMC.
Poor blood sugar control can cause
blurry vision
• Diabetic retinopathy, a condition in
which the blood vessels in the retina leak
fluid or abnormal blood vessels grow on
the surface of the retina causing gradual
loss of vision
• Cataracts, which cause the lens of the
eye to become cloudy, diminishing vision
• Glaucoma, a condition that increases
8 GREATER living |
To learn more about ophthalmology services and primary care at GBMC,
visit www.gbmc.org/ophthalmology and www.mygbmcdoctor.com or
call 443-849-GBMC (4262).
living healthy, living well
Who’s New and Promotions at GBMC
Bimal Rami, MD, FACS, has been named Division Head of Neurosurgery at GBMC. Dr. Rami has been
a member of the Greater Baltimore Neurosurgical Associates practice since 2005 and is board-certified
in neurological surgery. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland School
of Medicine, completed his residency at University of Maryland Medical System and completed his
fellowship at the R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center/University of Maryland Medical System.
Dr. Rami specializes in minimally invasive skull base and pituitary surgery, computer-assisted brain
tumor procedures, cervical and lumbar fusion surgery, disc replacement and neuro-oncology.
Ryan A. Gorman, DO, recently joined the GBMC at Hunt Valley primary care practice as a family
medicine physician. Dr. Gorman received his doctorate in Osteopathic Medicine from the University
of New England in Biddeford, Maine. He completed residencies in Family Medicine at Boston University
Medical Center and South Boston Community Health Center in Massachusetts. Board-certified in
Family Medicine, Dr. Gorman was previously employed as a physician with Kaiser Permanente Group
in California and Maryland.
Kruti Patel, MD, recently joined GBMC as a radiation oncologist. Dr. Patel earned her medical degree
from Stony Brook University School of Medicine in Stony Brook, New York in 2010 and completed her
internship in Internal Medicine at Abington Memorial Hospital in Abington, Pennsylvania. She went on
to finish her residency training in Radiation Oncology at the University of Maryland Medical Center in
Baltimore, where she served as Chief Resident from 2013 to 2014.
Rina Khatri Patel, MD, recently joined GBMC as a medical oncologist in the Sandra & Malcolm Berman
Cancer Institute. Dr. Patel earned her medical degree from Case Western Reserve University School of
Medicine in Cleveland, Ohio. She completed her residency in Internal Medicine at The Johns Hopkins
Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland with the Osler Medical Residency Program, followed by a fellowship
in Medical Oncology and Hematology, also at The Johns Hopkins Hospital. Board-certified in Internal
Medicine, Dr. Patel is a member of the American Society of Hematology and the American Society of
Clinical Oncology.
www.gbmc.org | GREATER living 9
neurosurgery
“Every Day is a Good Day” Now that Back Pain is Gone
J
ewel Henry is used to hard work and the
aches and pains that go with it. After a
career in the military, he became a mail
handler, a career he’s had for almost 21
years. As part of his job, he carries the heavy
containers of bulk mail that arrive at the
main post office in Baltimore City. Over time,
back pain became a regular part of his day
and, as the years passed, that pain became
more and more severe.
“I toughed it out for years, figuring it
was just what happens when you have the
kind of job I do,” he says. “But eventually,
I couldn’t ignore it anymore. I lost feeling
in my feet, my back hurt all the time and I
could barely walk upstairs. I could never
get comfortable. Once, my wife and I were
driving from Baltimore to Detroit. We hadn’t
been on the road for long, but I had to pull
Dr. Bimal Rami examines his patient, Jewel Henry, who suffered from intense back pain due to spinal stenosis.
less effective. A friend who was also retired
fusion. This surgery decompresses the spinal
from the military recommended he see the
canal and stabilizes the spine by placing rods
physician who had helped him with his back
and screws in the back and front of the spine
keeping me from doing what I wanted.”
pain, Bimal Rami, MD, FACS, Division Head
to help reinforce the damaged areas.”
Time to talk about surgery
with Greater Baltimore Neurosurgical
says Mr. Henry. “I don’t have the pain and
Associates (GBNA).
numbness. I can stand up straight and tall. If I
over at a rest stop because sitting was so
uncomfortable. I was living with this pain
every day and it was getting in the way,
Mr. Henry tried physical therapy and
of Neurosurgery at GBMC and physician
“Every day is a good day for me now,”
steroid injections to help relieve his back
pain and these treatments helped for a
while. Eventually, however, they became
“If I had known that surgery could work this well, I wouldn’t
have waited so long!”
— Jewel Henry
Could your symptoms be
caused by spinal stenosis?
“Mr. Henry had moderate to severe
had known that surgery could work this well,
atients with spinal stenosis don’t
P
always have back pain. Other common
symptoms include
spinal stenosis,” explains Dr. Rami. “This
I wouldn’t have waited so long! I’m so glad I
condition puts pressure on the spinal cord and
found Dr. Rami. I felt very confident in him
• Leg pain with numbness or tingling
nerves, which is what causes the pain and the
from the moment we met. I always planned
• Difficulty walking or standing for
any period of time
numbness he experienced. Because physical
to travel across the country in an RV with my
therapy and steroid injections were no longer
wife when I retire. Now, I’ll be able to enjoy
working, I performed a laminectomy and
the trip!”
• Increased clumsiness or balance
problems
Talk to your primary care physician
about treatment options and whether
it’s time to consult a surgeon.
10 GREATER living |
To find out more about the neurosurgical and spine services provided at
GBMC, visit www.gbmc.org/neurosurgery or call 443-849-GBMC (4262).
calendar
GBMC’s Calendar of Events
GBMC’s Calendar is a listing of events, classes and lectures hosted by the
hospital. A complete listing of dates, times and locations is available at
www.gbmc.org under the Community tab.
BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT GROUPS
Gilchrist Hospice Care
Call Gilchrist Grief Services at 443-849-8251, email
gs_grief@gilchristservices.org or register online at
gilchristservices.org/grief_registration
Support Groups:
• Widowed Persons/Life Partner Grief
Support Group
• Remembering Our Parents
• Mothers’ Grief Group (for mothers who
have lost an adult child)
Workshops:
• Writing for Healing
• Learn to Meditate
• Grief Pathways: Beginning the Journey
• The Journey Continues: Grief Support in
the Second Year
• Fathering & Support After the Loss of
a Spouse/Life Partner
• Remembering Our Parents
• Men’s Support Group (for men who have
lost a spouse/significant other)
M.I.S.S. (Miscarriage, Infant Death
and Stillborn Support)
Second Thursday of every month; 6:30 to 8 p.m.
Physicians Pavilion West Conference Room
Call 443-849-2079 for more information. FREE
CANCER SCREENINGS
Frequently offered cancer screenings at GBMC
include skin, prostate, oral, lung and voice. Please
call the screening phone line at 443-849-3080 to
inquire about dates and costs, or visit www.gbmc.
org and search for “Cancer Calendar of Events.”
Registration is required for all screenings. For voice
screenings, call 443-849-2087.
CANCER SUPPORT GROUPS
& EDUCATION
Dance Center Head and Neck Cancer Patient/
Family Support Group
Third Tuesday of every month; 7 to 8:30 p.m.
Call 443-849-2087 for information. FREE
Look Good…Feel Better®*
Sessions for women with cancer that address
changes with skin and hair
Mondays: 2 to 4 p.m. on March 7 & 21, April 4 & 18,
May 2 & 16, and June 6 & 20.
Call 443-849-2037 to register.
*An American Cancer Society public service
program facilitated by GBMC. FREE
Tasty Tuesdays
Tuesdays: March 8, April 12, May 10, Noon to 1 p.m.
RSVP requested to Keri Ryniak, 443-849-8186 or
kryniak@gbmc.org.
*Oncology Nutrition Discussion is offered for
patients and caregivers of GBMC only. FREE
COMMUNITY SUPPORT GROUPS
pre-operative and post-operative patients on the
third Thursday of every month. Visit the website
for a full schedule or call 443-849-3779.
Freedom from Smoking Classes
Interested in attending a free smoking cessation
class? Please visit https://www.baltimorecountymd.
gov/Agencies/health/healthservices/tobacco.html
Perspectives in Medicine
Speaker: Niraj Jani, MD
Topic: Updates in Colon Cancer and Screening
Wednesday, March 9, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Civiletti Conference Center, GBMC campus
Perspectives in Medicine
Speaker: W. Anthony Riley, MD
Topic: Advance Care Planning — A Family Affair
Wednesday, April 13, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Civiletti Conference Center, GBMC campus
Yoga for Stroke Survivors
Mondays, 9 - 10:30 a.m.
Fridays, 9 - 10:30 a.m.
Civiletti Conference Center
Call or email Kelli Bethel at 410-302-7663
or Info@tafiya.net for more information.
Pre-registration is required.
Geckle Diabetes and Nutrition Center
Call 443-849-2036 for information on:
• Type 2 Diabetes Support Group — Thursdays,
March 17 and November 17, 2016, 7 to 8 p.m.,
Civiletti Conference Center, Room C
• Type 2 Diabetes Education, including classes
• Type 1 Diabetes Education, pediatric and adult
• Gestational Diabetes Education
• Pre-Diabetes Education
• I nsulin and Other Diabetes Injectable Medication
Instruction
• Intensive Diabetes Management Education
• Continuous Glucose Monitoring Education
• Insulin Pump Therapy Education
•M
edical Nutrition Therapy — including education
for weight management, obesity, high cholesterol,
high blood pressure, kidney disease, celiac disease,
eating disorders, healthy eating and other
nutrition-related conditions
GREATER HEALTH CLASSES
Obesity Management Information
Sessions/Support Group
Interested in weight loss surgery? Get started by
doing an in-person or online information session.
Visit the GBMC Comprehensive Obesity Management
Program’s website at www.gbmc.org/weightloss
to sign up. Support group meetings are held for all
PARENT EDUCATION CLASSES/
DOULA TOUCH PROGRAMS
Visit www.gbmc.org/parented or call 443-849-BABY
(2229) to register.
Classes include:
• Doula Touch Program Birth and Postpartum Support
• Mommy Matters Support Group
• Childbirth Education (4-week format)
• Weekender (1-day condensed format)
• “Born Free,” the Natural Approach to Childbirth
• Infant Care Series and/or Workshop
• Parents of Multiples
• Breastfeeding
• Pediatric CPR/Child CPR
• Prenatal Yoga
• Sibling Class
The Parent Connection Store
at GBMC offers a wide variety
of nursing bras, nursing
pillows, pump rentals and
sales, replacement parts
and nursing accessories. We specialize in
nursing support,
education and bra fittings. www.gbmc.org | GREATER living 11
IK
you!
To the community, the donors, the volunteers,
the physicians, the nurses, the employees, the
families ...
To you
Thank you for making our 50th anniversary
better than we could have imagined. It is
because of you that we are here,
and we are grateful.
12 GREATER living | GBMC Philanthropy
“To every patient, every time, we will provide
the care we would want for our own loved ones.”
This is a vision of perfection. But it is our quest to
achieve it. What we are doing is moving closer
every day to our vision.
We continue to build a better system of care and
you are the foundation. Your philanthropy drives
these promises; it is at the heart of our vision. Your
support, your contribution to our 50th and your
belief in GBMC allow us to break the mold on
traditional healthcare.
For our 50th anniversary, we not only met, but
exceeded our $50 million goal by raising
$54.7 million for the community’s health.
It is all because of you.
www.gbmc.org/philanthropy
GBMC Philanthropy | GREATER living 13
Make a Difference for GBMC Nurses!
N
urses make an incredible impact on the
Advanced Life Support, Advanced Cardiac
in both unit- and hospital-based initiatives.
daily lives of patients and their families,
Life Support, Stroke Education and Crisis
It is a great feeling to know that we as nurses
Prevention Intervention.
are able to take control of our practice and
touching every aspect of patient care.
Maintaining and enhancing GBMC’s nursing
GBMC’s state-of-the-art Simulation
affect positive change.”
In addition, GBMC nurses staff the
program has been a hallmark of GBMC since
Lab helps nurses stay current with their
its inception. Today, 63 percent of our nurses
continuing education credits and practical
hospital’s Sexual Assault Forensic Examination
have at least 10 years of experience in nursing
skills in realistic situations.
(SAFE) program, which responds to victims
— the average length of employment at
GBMC for nurses is the same — which
Nurses at GBMC also play a valuable role
in the healthcare system leadership. To
of sexual assault and domestic violence 24
hours a day, 7 days a week.
highlights the tremendous environment
GBMC fosters for its nursing staff.
The H. Norman Baetjer Jr. and Jeanne
H. Baetjer Center for Nursing Excellence,
established by the Women’s Hospital
Foundation, is committed to supporting
As nursing becomes more complicated, especially in matching
the increasingly complex needs of patients, the resources
available through the Baetjer Center are ever more crucial in
providing the best care to every patient at GBMC, every time.
nurses at all points in their career. GBMC’s
Nurse Residency Program is a 12-month
An endowment is a critical resource,
fellowship designed to support the new
promote professional development, GBMC
nurse graduate’s transition from advanced
implemented the Evidence-Based Practice
especially for a community healthcare system,
beginner to competent professional.
Fellowship, a 12-month, intensive mentorship
that provides stability and flexibility where it
program in which staff nurses develop their
is most needed. By delivering a steady and
degrees, the Baetjer Center offers academic
clinical, leadership, problem-solving and
reliable flow of income, an endowment better
scholarships as well. The Baetjer Center
research utilization skills.
positions a community hospital like GBMC
For nurses interested in advancing their
consistently promotes a culture of inquiry,
GBMC also recognizes and rewards clinical
to recruit and retain the next generation of
best practice, interdisciplinary collaboration
nurses for their achievements of clinical
medical professionals, creating opportunities
and innovative approaches to learning, by
excellence. As Emergency Department nurse
for innovation, research and treatments that
providing many opportunities to promote
Amanda Icenroad says, “I like that there are
would not otherwise be available. Investing
clinical skills. Courses include Pediatric
opportunities to grow and become involved
in an Endowment Fund for Nursing sends the
message GBMC is committed to its nurses.
Jeanne H. Baetjer
As nursing becomes more complicated,
especially in matching the increasingly
complex needs of patients, the resources
available through the Baetjer Center are
ever more crucial in providing the best care
to every patient at GBMC, every time. We
ask you, the community, to help us support
and honor our nurses by committing to
supporting the Baetjer Center and the
success of our nurses.
To learn about ways that you can
make a difference to nursing at GBMC,
visit www.gbmc.org/philanthropy or
call the Philanthropy Department at
443-849-2773.
14 GREATER living | GBMC Philanthropy
Operating Room Simulation Lab
Hospital operating rooms are intense environments
Save the Dates
that require clinicians to work under stressful conditions.
GBMC HealthCare is filling your calendar!
In 2016, GBMC HealthCare is
Research shows a positive teamwork environment is
bringing back its signature events,
particularly important in the operating room (OR).
along with some new surprises, to
At GBMC, ongoing training opportunities are a critical
component of the H. Norman Baetjer Jr. and Jeanne H.
benefit GBMC and Gilchrist Services.
Baetjer Center for Nursing Excellence curriculum focusing
We hope to see you for one or more
on improving team skills. Since the opening of GBMC’s
of these occasions!
March 9, 2016
Perspectives in Medicine Lecture
Simulation Lab in 2012, training on patient simulators has
improved team-based competencies like communication, role clarity and mutual support.
Responding to the needs of its clinical staff, GBMC is expanding its Simulation Lab. Today, the lab
includes an open skills area, simulation rooms, debriefing and control rooms, as well as high-fidelity
simulation mannequins. However, there is no technology to simulate an OR environment, which would
offer the ability for nurses to practice skills and work together while using real surgical instruments and
recording the experience.
“There is no greater continuing education experience than Simulation
Training. It is a wonderful tool to enhance patient safety and help clinical
staff to think on their feet.”
— JoAnn Z. Ioannou, DNP, MBA, RN, NEA-BC
Sr. Vice President, Patient Care Services & Chief Nursing Officer
Citing the success of the existing GBMC Simulation Lab it funded in 2012, The Women’s Hospital
Foundation is providing the lead gift to support the Lab’s expansion. According to its president
Cynthia L. Crawley, “The Women’s Hospital Foundation is pleased to make this commitment and to
be a supporter of the many good works taking place at GBMC.” GBMC’s Volunteer Auxiliary and the
Rosenthal-Statter Foundation, Inc. are also making generous contributions to the expansion effort.
If you are interested in learning more about the Simulation Lab, call 443-849-2773 to schedule
April 11, 2016
Annual Donor Recognition Dinner
April 13, 2016
Perspectives in Medicine Lecture
April 16, 2016
NEW! Walk a Mile in Her Shoes
May 9, 2016
28th annual Golf Classic
June 19, 2016
28th annual Father’s Day 5K
September 24, 2016
16th annual Legacy Chase
October 12, 2016
Perspectives in Medicine Lecture
October 23, 2016
Taste of Howard County
November 9, 2016
Perspectives in Medicine Lecture
December 2, 2016
Holly Ball
a visit.
Walk a Mile to Raise Awareness
In support of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, GBMC
which provide cost-free services for sexual assault
will be hosting its first Walk a Mile in Her Shoes®: The
victims ages 13 and up. SAFE offers specially
International Men’s March to Stop Rape, Sexual Assault
trained Forensic Nurse Examiners who are able
& Gender Violence. Participants will show their support
to provide a range of confidential services,
for victims of sexualized violence by walking a mile in
including crisis counseling, in a respectful,
high heels.
nonjudgmental atmosphere.
Though heels are not mandatory for male or female
Gurtej Singh, MD, an interventional spine
participants, the challenge helps draw attention to the
specialist at GBMC, and his wife, Jenniy Singh, are
focus of this event: raising awareness of sexual assault and
leading the charge along with a committee of business
domestic violence. Heels are merely a symbol; sexualized
leaders, GBMC board members and community volunteers.
violence is a tragic reality that affects women and men
Walk a Mile in Her Shoes® will be held on Saturday,
of all ages.
April 16, including a post-walk party with food and
The walk will benefit GBMC’s Sexual Assault Forensic
Examination (SAFE) and Domestic Violence programs,
www.gbmc.org/philanthropy
prizes. Visit www.gbmc.org/walkamile to register and
for more information.
GBMC Philanthropy | GREATER living 15
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U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
6701 North Charles Street
Baltimore, Maryland 21204
PERMIT NO. 4406
BALTIMORE, MD
443-849-GBMC (4262)
TTY: 1-800-735-2258
GREATER living is published three times a year by the
Marketing and Communications Department of Greater
Baltimore Medical Center, a private, non-profit healthcare
provider. Information provided is general in nature and
should not be substituted for the medical advice of a
physician. Please consult your healthcare provider for
recommendations specific to your own personal health,
medical treatment and conditions.
Director of Marketing
Marketing, Communications and Advertising Manager
Content Manager
Greg Shaffer
Jennifer Jardell
Jessica Schoeffield
Design & Production
Mid-Atlantic Custom Media
Contributing Writers
Rachel Cashen, Tyler Scheff,
Susan Walker
Contributing Photographer
Printing
Tracey Brown,
Chaya Braun Photography
Schmitz Press
SUNDAY
JUNE 19, 2016
RACE DAY
SCHEDULE
6:30 a.m.: On-site Registration
7 a.m.-10:30 a.m.: Wellness Village
8:00 a.m.: 5K Run & 1 Mile Fun Walk
9:30 a.m.: Closing Ceremony
All proceeds benefit the GBMC NICU.
Fundraising options with prizes are
available so get your family and friends
involved!
For more information, contact us at
philanthropy@gbmc.org or call us at
443-849-2773.
16 GREATER living |
Race management by Charm City Run.
REGISTRATION
Online registration will close June 16.
In-person registration and packet
pick-up will be available at
Charm City Run Timonium:
Friday, June 17 : 3 p.m. - 6 p.m.
Saturday, June 18 : 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
and on race day at 6:30 a.m.
www.GBMC.org/5K