healthreport - northwestern lake forest hospital...haverhals have long observed the beneﬁ ts of...

healthreportL IVING BETTER EVERY DAY

A Volunteer

for LifeWINTER 2010

LOSE TO WINWomen and medical weight loss

THE DIRTY TRUTHHand washing Q&A

LOOK WHO’S TALKINGSpeech therapy is changing lives

Cancer clinical trials close to home—

one woman’s story

healthreport

10

8

WINTER 2010

Features2A VOLUNTEER FOR LIFECancer clinical trials close to home—one woman’s story

10YOUR WEIGHT, YOUR LIFEWomen and medical weight loss

Departments8STRAIGHT ANSWERS

14TEST YOUR HEALTH IQ

16THE CUTTING EDGE

18SUPPORTING NORTHWESTERN LAKE FOREST HOSPITAL

20NEW HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS

2

16

Expertise matters.

With Children’s Memorial hospitalists on staff 24/7, you

receive the Chicago area’s best pediatric care—while

staying close to home.

ON OUR COVER: Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital patient

Chris Wolters

The Health Report is published by the Northwestern Lake

Forest Hospital Marketing Department. Tel: 847.535.6789.

The information contained in this newsletter is intended to

inform and educate about subjects pertinent to health and

should not be interpreted as a substitute for consultation

with a personal physician.

© 2010 Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital

Children’s Memorial hospitalists are pediatricians specially trained in managing neonatal and pediatric

patients. They do not replace primary physicians, but provide an extra layer

of care for our smallest patients.

WINTER 2010 1

A VOLUNTEER FORlife

Chris Wolters is one of the faces behind Lake County’s clinical cancer trials.

WINTER 2010 32 NORTHWESTERN LAKE FOREST HOSPITAL

AANY TIME YOU TAKE A PRESCRIPTION DRUG or follow directions from your physician, you trust that the treatment is safe and effective.

That peace of mind is possible because of people like Chris Wolters of Mundelein. Wolters was diagnosed with a serious form of renal (kidney) cancer in 2008 and now volunteers in clinical trials, studies that determine the safety and effi cacy of new treatments in humans.

Wolters’ positive attitude—and infectious cheerfulness—helped her to make the decision.

“You have to take what life throws at you, and I didn’t want to waste precious time,” she says. “The clinical trial gives me the chance to try a new treatment before it’s widely available and possibly help millions of other people, too.”

Clinical trials—here in Lake CountyUntil recently, the option of trying promising new treatments still in the testing phases was possible primarily at large, research-oriented university hospitals in or near Chicago. In fact, only three percent of cancer patients in the U.S. participate in clinical trials, mainly because of distance. That means some of the 800 potentially useful new treatments in trials nationwide may be delayed. Meanwhile, cancer continues to claim the lives of one in four Americans every year.

Wolters’ physician, Dr. Dean Tsarwhas, is a Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital oncologist who recently established clinical trials at his practice, in affi liation with Northwestern University, the Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) and Orchard Research. Now, in the Lake County area, a patient can participate in the same clinical trials found at academic research hospitals. (Currently there are 39 trials, for all types of cancer.)

Dr. Tsarwhas completed his fellowship training at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute at Harvard Medical

School, where he was immersed in an environment of research and clinical trials. He strongly believes they are a critical part of cutting-edge care.

“When patients would ask, ‘do you offer trials?,’ I could only help facilitate a trial downtown,” says Dr. Tsarwhas. “Now we’re making it available locally. Cancer patients already go to their local community hospital for 80 percent of their treatment.”

Out of left fi eldFor Wolters, cancer showed up “out of left fi eld.” In June of 2008, problems with a kidney stone brought her to the Emergency Room, and a mass was discovered on a CT scan.

Wolters’ kidney surgery eliminated the cancer and the stones, and she continued her same lifestyle without any symptoms. But a follow-up CT scan months later showed that the cancer had spread to her lungs and spine. Her physician referred her to Dr. Tsarwhas. After additional testing, Dr. Tsarwhas suggested that Wolters consider a clinical trial.

Like most people, she didn’t think much about clinical trials, even when research breakthroughs turned up in the news. But Wolters considered her options and embraced the opportunity.

“The arrangement was fabulous for me. If I had to travel far for the trial, I wouldn’t have been able to keep my job. I might not have participated.”

Saving lives with clinical trialsAny new approach to treatment fi rst undergoes extensive studies on laboratory-grown cancer cells, as well as additional testing on animals such as mice. But mice and people are very different—and often more answers are needed.

Clinical trials for testing on humans are then divided into three phases: 1) analyzing effects on the human body and safe dosages; 2) discovering its effect on the cancer; and 3) determining whether it’s better than the current standard treatment.

“Clinical trials often involve testing new combinations of drugs or new ways of using them, rather than a

completely new drug,” Dr. Tsarwhas explains. “In Chris Wolters’ case, we’re fi nding out whether an intra-venous biologic therapy that shrinks tumors in colon cancer will work for her kidney cancer.”

So far, Wolters, who also lost a sister to cancer, is thrilled with the results. The treatment is “keeping everything at bay;” her cancer hasn’t metastasized (spread) and she is still working full-time.

A wide safety netClinical trials do carry risks—there’s a chance the new treatment may be ineffective or worse than the standard. But strict safety protocols are built

into every trial, and there’s reason to believe that the new treatment will be as good, if not better, than the standard.

The trials Dr. Tsarwhas offers to Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital patients and others follow Northwestern University’s Institutional Review Board (IRB) safety protocols. Patients are also enrolled in trials through an informed consent process to make sure they understand the procedures and risks.

Each patient is screened for eligibility for enrollment, using the clinical trial protocol. “This ensures adherence to the protocol guidelines, as well as patient safety during the screening process,” says Dr. Tsarwhas’ nurse practitioner, Jennifer Giarratana, R.N., M.S. “Patient safety is continuously monitored while the patient remains on the trial. We also collaborate with Northwestern University. Our practice has a great relationship with the oncology team there.”

Throughout Wolters’ 22 eight-week sessions, she’s closely monitored for any adverse events, and data is collected. Anything unusual or unsafe is graded and reported to the ECOG, where trial results are tallied. In some cases, trials have been discontinued

“ THE ARRANGEMENT WAS FABULOUS FOR ME. IF I HAD TO TRAVEL FAR FOR THE TRIAL, I WOULDN’T HAVE BEEN ABLE TO KEEP MY JOB. I MIGHT NOT HAVE PARTICIPATED.”

Chris Wolters and

Dr. Dean Tsarwhas

4 NORTHWESTERN LAKE FOREST HOSPITAL WINTER 2010 5

or modifi ed. Clinical trials are also voluntary, and patients can withdraw at any time.

“So many things helped me feel safe,” Wolters recalls. “The Northwestern University affi liation was part of it. Jennifer was wonderful about helping me understand my options and risks. And I know that I’m not married to this trial. The standard treatment is always available.”

The best of both worldsDespite her battle with cancer, Wolters is determined to keep looking at the bright side of her situation.

“It’s actually kind of fun,” she says with a laugh. ”I’m part of medical history. I see my physician and nurse much more than a patient normally might, and my progress gets lots of attention. They have become like a second family to me. That’s important when you have cancer.”

For Dr. Tsarwhas, the clinical trials are a way to be involved with the kind of advanced care and research available at university institutions such as Northwestern Memorial Hospital and the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine—while still allowing him the chance to provide more personal, community care.

“An important aspect of ‘cutting-edge care’ is simply having a team that returns phone calls and really enjoys taking care of patients,” says Dr. Tsarwhas. “Along with Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital and Northwestern University, we really are offering the best of both worlds here.”

Find a Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital oncologist at lfh.org and information about our cancer services at lfh.org/cancer.

Read more physician-reviewed articles about cancer and wellness at lfh.org/cancer.

Cancer Center coming to GrayslakeTo provide even more advanced care options for Lake County residents, Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital is investing in a new Cancer Treatment Center at its Grayslake Campus. The center will allow cancer patients to receive their treatments without traveling to the Lake Forest Campus.

According to Joseph Imperato, M.D., F.A.C.R., board-certifi ed radiation oncologist, this is a signifi cant improvement in care for cancer patients:

“ Cancer patients endure frequent visits. The intensity of therapy may mean that patients must rely on family or friends to drive them to and from their appointments each week. Daily treatments also add signifi cant travel time to a person’s day, requiring more juggling of work and home life. A modern outpatient center in the community, located close to where many of our patients live, is a signifi cant improvement in convenience for cancer patients and offers them high quality medical treatments closer to home.”

The center will be located on Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital’s Grayslake Campus. In addition to 24/7 emergency services, the Grayslake facility offers an array of outpatient services and physician specialty practices. Construction of the expansion in Grayslake has begun and the Cancer Center will open in Fall 2010.

“ WE ALSO COLLABORATE WITH NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY. OUR PRACTICE HAS A GREAT RELATIONSHIP WITH THE ONCOLOGY TEAM THERE.”PUMPING IRON

WITH CANCER PATIENTS

LAKE COUNTY’S

ONLY CANCER-

RELATED FATIGUE

PROGRAM

“WHAT CAN I DO ABOUT FATIGUE?”

It’s the most common question that the oncology team, Robin Flory, P.T./C.L.T., Claudia Wiser, P.T./C.L.T. and Leah Haverhals, P.T., D.P.T./C.L.T. of Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital hear from cancer patients.

Until recently, the answer from the medical community has been: “try to rest.”

However, oncology physical therapists like Haverhals have long observed the benefi ts of exercise in cancer rehabilitation. Encouraged by research confi rming these observations, the oncology team of the Rehabilitative Services Department created Lake County’s only certifi ed Cancer-related Fatigue Program at Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital.

“As physical therapists, we help individuals with cancer resolve impairments and restore basic functions. However, often after achieving goals in therapy, they continue to experience fatigue and general weakness due to the nature of cancer and cancer treatments,” she says. “A personal trainer can work with patients to establish a consistent exercise routine. We have both a well-established cancer program and an amazing Health and Fitness Center here. Combining the two was a perfect fi t.”

HOW THE PROGRAM WORKSThe Cancer-related Fatigue Program begins with an initial evaluation by a physical therapist, followed by group classes that meet twice a week for eight weeks in the Lake Forest Health and Fitness Center. Guided by personal trainers certifi ed in cancer exercise, a small group of patients (at various stages of cancer and cancer

treatments, as well as various diagnoses) perform moderate levels of strength training, fl exibility exercises and cardiovascular workouts. The workouts are safe and benefi cial for individuals with cancer.

“We’re unique because we have oncology-trained therapists collaborating with staff who are all certifi ed cancer exercise specialists. The patient’s trusted therapist is still in the picture and still getting feedback,” Haverhals says. “This relationship between our physical therapists and personal trainers creates a continuum of care that allows our patients to reach their maximum level of health.”

A SURPRISING ARRAY OF BENEFITSIn August of 2009, The New England Journal of Medicine reported the results of the largest study to date on exercise and cancer. The study found that weight lifting doesn’t make cancer symptoms worse, but actually reduces fatigue and chemotherapy’s toxic effects. Several other benefi ts have been documented, including:

• Reduced cancer-related fatigue and weakness

• Fewer lymphedema fl are-ups• Protection against side effects

of chemotherapy and radiation• Improved cancer survival rates • Improved mood, mobility, strength

and overall quality of life

“For individuals with cancer, quality of life is a big concern,” says Haverhals. “This program meets that need. Patients have been surprised by the effects—and glad they came.”

For more information or to register, call Oncology Rehabilitation at 847.535.6520.


STRAIGHT ANSWERS

Coming clean on germs

Hand washing is the single most important

thing we can do to prevent infectious diseases. And yet,

misinformation and poor hygiene habits

abound.

DR. DIANE FONDRIEST IS A BOARD-CERTIFIED PEDIATRICIAN AT

NORTHWESTERN LAKE FOREST HOSPITAL. SHE COMPLETED HER

TRAINING AT CHILDREN’S MEMORIAL HOSPITAL AND RECENTLY

CELEBRATED 25 YEARS OF TREATING CHILDREN. DR. FONDRIEST

CLARIFIES WHY CORRECT PREVENTIVE CARE—AND SOME

COMMON SENSE—IS THE BEST MEDICINE.

Q Some experts recommend washing after any contact with animals. How do animal-loving families manage

this strict guideline?

A There is potentially some transfer of infectious germs between animals and people. But I’m a dog lover, and

I don’t wash my hands every time I touch my beagle. Use common sense; for example, don’t play with pets if they have a skin irritation. Always wash after cleaning up any animal waste. And remember that everyone in the home needs to wash their hands. Having clean kids and pets won’t matter if parents’ hands are dirty.

Q Day care centers and schools have the highest concentrations of strong viruses and bacteria.

How can kids stay healthy away from home?

A The best thing to do is to keep a child at home when he or she is sick. Day care centers should have policies and

safety protocols in place that parents should learn before enrolling their child. And, of course, be sure to keep hands clean and have children wash hands when they come home from school. Ideally, the hygiene habits you establish at home should be continued at school. But if, for example, an older child can’t wash hands before eating, he or she can always carry a small hand sanitizer in a backpack.

Q Is there anything else parents can do to protect kids during cold and fl u season? What about over-

the-counter remedies (such as Airborne or Emergen-C)?

A Dietary supplements like Airborne may not be worthwhile. They have not been proven to prevent colds and are not

FDA-approved. Even basic Vitamin C, which has long been connected with treating the common cold, is now known to have little or no ability to prevent colds or reduce their severity.

Good general health habits, including diet, sleep, exercise and correct hand washing, are your best bet. I also encourage seasonal fl u and H1N1 vaccinations, especially for young people between six months and 24 years of age. It’s not too late to get the vaccine, especially since the H1N1 strain may be with us well after fl u season has passed.

Go to lfh.org/fl ushot to get the latest information on fl u prevention and vaccine availability.

Q For correct hand washing, some say temperature is most important and others say friction or length

of time. What is most important?

A Length of time is important. You may have heard that singing “The Birthday Song” twice is a good way for kids to

remember, and I agree with that tip. The song lasts about 15-20 seconds, which is the right amount of time. I also recommend warm water, an antiseptic cleanser and rubbing hands together to reach all of the surfaces. You should dry with an air dryer or paper towel because linens harbor germs. Cloth towels at home are OK—just be sure to isolate towels used by someone who is ill.

Q Hand sanitizers containing strong anti-bacterial chemicals are cropping up everywhere. Is there any

danger to increased use—especially for children with developing immune systems?

A They’re good products for killing germs and very safe as well. They evaporate rapidly on the skin and have a

transient effect. So, they eliminate germs but don’t interfere with immunity or carry long-term effects. And that’s an important point to remember: because sanitizers don’t have a lasting effect, you may need to apply frequently throughout the day.

Q What’s the best way to develop good hand washing habits in children?

A The habit should start at home and start young. Children should wash when they come in from outside, after

playing, after using the bathroom and after doing any cleaning, especially when it involves animal waste. They should also wash before they eat. This kind of home training should be treated the same as teaching children how to dress, how to behave, or how to treat others. The American Red Cross’ excellent website, scrubclub.org, has fun, interactive ways for kids to learn about germs and keeping clean.


Your Weight, Your LifeYou’ve tried the diets, the pills, the mail-order meals, the home exercise machines. But you’re not feeling thinner—you’re feeling failure.

Dr. Shana Weiss, who specializes in internal medicine and bariatrics (the medical treatment of obesity), explains why it’s time to stop beating yourself up and consider a fad-free approach.

THE NUMBER ONE KILLER OF WOMEN

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in the United States—and heart disease is often brought on by obesity. In fact, for a BMI ranging from 30 to 40, a heart attack could occur six to 12 years earlier than in someone with a healthy BMI. Obesity can also lead to stroke, type II diabetes, cancer, infertility, osteoarthritis, depression, skin problems, sleep apnea and other diseases.

Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital’s Dr. Shana Weiss is board certifi ed in internal medicine and also is a Diplomate

from the American Board of Bariatric Medicine. She decided to pursue rigorous post-graduate training in bariatric medicine after seeing so many obesity-related problems.

“I had to work with patients to get their weight down as part of managing their illnesses,” she says. “Developing weight loss plans became part of their treatment.”

WILLPOWER HAS ITS LIMITS

About 80 percent of Dr. Weiss’ practice is made up of patients with an array of internal medical conditions. But the patients coming in purely for weight loss help have something in common: frustration.

“Most women feel that they’ve failed in some way,” she says. “They’ll tell me, ‘I’m just not good at this.’ But they may be working uphill—against their genes, the way the brain and stomach work together and lots of biochemical issues.”

Evidence keeps mounting that genes infl uence appetite and obesity, and the

WOMEN AND OBESITY

More than one-third, or 72 million people, in the United States are obese. After little change during the 1960s and 1970s, obesity nearly doubled between 1980 and 2004—with women gaining pounds at a slightly higher rate than men.

“Obesity” is generally defi ned as a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or higher (BMI = weight [lbs] divided by height [in.] divided by height [in.] x 703). For example, a woman who is 5’ 0,” 160 pounds and has a BMI of 31 is considered “obese.” A BMI between 25 and 29 is considered “overweight.”


brain plays a key role in a person’s weight. If you are genetically prone to obesity, you may be less sensitive to signals like feeling full. And the more weight you gain, the harder it is for your body to establish its normal appetite set-point.

This means that even with good intentions, weight loss is a diffi cult journey.

“Clearly, we’re more sedentary than we used to be,” says Dr. Weiss. “But research is showing that something else may be overriding or switching signals in an overweight person, turning more food into fat instead of fuel.”

AN EXPERT ON YOUR SIDE

A partner, and a personalized plan, may help overweight and obese women win the weight war. Bariatric specialists integrate many components to develop a customized plan: diet, exercise, behavior modifi cation, health conditions and, possibly, medication and meal replacements.

“Find someone you are comfortable with who will customize your treatment. A high protein diet might work for you, but not for someone else,” Dr. Weiss advises. “Your behavior, such as stress-related eating, should be analyzed.”

And those products and books that promise to “target” belly fat or “jumpstart” metabolism?

“In reality, those claims don’t play out because you simply can’t target one body part or system,” she explains. “Avoid over-the-counter diet drugs and

focus instead on a holistic program with exercise. Exercise may be the best way to break the cycle created by genes and behavior.”

HEARTENING SUCCESS STORIES

Good programs are tailored to the patient’s needs—and the results of those who stick with it are impressive.

“I have several female patients who lost 60 pounds, another who lost 100 pounds and many others who have lost 50-55 pounds,” Dr. Weiss says. “They simply followed the program, including exercise. They also had someone—in this case, me—to whom they were accountable.”

She explains that no program, product or diet plan—even those guided by a physician—will work well without exercise.

“I tell people that if they commit to 12 weeks for a plan and follow all of its components, including exercise, they can lose fi ve to ten percent of body weight in the fi rst few weeks,” she says.

Dr. Weiss does not perform bariatric surgery, but she refers patients to those surgeons if appropriate. Gastric banding (such as LAP-BAND®) and gastric bypass surgery, the most common procedures, require follow-up treatment with bariatric specialists like Dr. Weiss to ensure healthy recovery and long-term success.

CAN ANYONE TRY MEDICAL WEIGHT LOSS?

Weight loss programs aren’t limited to those carrying 50 to 100 excess pounds. Dr. Weiss explains that women can face

psychological-social trauma even when the gain is small.

“Everyone’s tolerance is different. Some women have been thin their whole lives; then they put on fi ve or ten stubborn pounds and become very unhappy,” she says. “Others have been obese for years and losing weight has never occurred to them.”

But most importantly, Dr. Weiss believes women need to take charge of their health—especially when obesity is putting their life on the line.

“Not all women ‘count’ weight loss as part of their overall preventive care,” she says. “But stress, weight and other conditions all affect how you look, how you feel and how long you’ll live.”

“ I have several female patients who lost 60 pounds, another who lost 100 pounds and many others who have lost 50-55 pounds.”

For physician contact information, visit lfh.org.

Many BMI calculators and charts are available online. Try the U.S. Centers for Disease Control at cdc.gov/healthyweight/assessing/bmi.

Learn more about our wide range of maternity and parenting classes and register online at lfh.org/events.

Tour of the Maternity Center

Childbirth Preparation

Childbirth Refresher

Lamaze Workshop

Newborn Care Basics

Preparation for Breastfeeding

Infant CPR and Safety

Transitioning into Parenthood

Infant Massage

Spring Training for Dads

Sibling Preparation

Surviving Motherhood I and II

What’s Next for Me? Changing Times, Changing Bodies

Community

WellnessWe also offer a range of

classes, lectures and free health

screenings—all open to the public.

Keep an eye out for our mailing

with full details or visit us

at lfh.org/events.

Baby & You

WHERE LOSERS ARE WINNERSNorthwestern Lake Forest Hospital’s Health and Fitness Centers in Lake Forest and Lindenhurst offer motivating, safe and effective programs designed for people struggling to lose weight.

LOSE TO WIN is a fun, boot-camp style contest that awards $1,000 cash to the team member who safely loses the most weight. Recently, 25 teams lost a combined 1,000 pounds in just eight weeks. Lose to Win is led by certifi ed personal trainers and recently won the “Best of the Best” award from Club Industry magazine—beating out entries from seven other states.

WELLNESS 180™ is a one-of-a-kind, proven program to help people with obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking and other weight-related health conditions. The program brings together a team of professionals—an exercise specialist, nurse, dietitian, clinical psychologist and the patient’s physician—to create a personalized, realistic and holistic weight loss plan.

“ I’ve learned so much from this program. All my life I’ve struggled with my weight. I would lose some weight, then gain twice as much back. With Wellness 180,™ I’ve lost 36 pounds, and I’m maintaining normal blood pressure and blood sugar levels. It’s still a struggle—but I’m not giving up.”

– SANDRA WEATHERFORD, LAKE FOREST

Visit health-fi tnesscenters.com to learn more about the Health and Fitness Centers’ cutting-edge programs, classes, equipment, café, spa and more.

ARES

WINTER 2010 1312 NORTHWESTERN LAKE FOREST HOSPITAL

TEST YOUR HEALTH IQ

Smartsnacking

EXPANDING PORTION SIZES AND UNHEALTHY SNACKS

ARE A FEW OF THE FACTORS BEHIND AMERICA’S

OBESITY EPIDEMIC. HOW SAVVY ARE YOU ABOUT

SNACKING AND SERVING SIZES?

1A cup of coffee with cream and sugar used to mean about 8 oz. and 45 calories. Today, a Starbucks® Grande Caffe Mocha

with whipped cream is:a) 16 ounces and 330 caloriesb) 8 ounces and 150 caloriesc) 20 ounces and 250 calories

2Snacks with high fructose corn syrup cause concern because: a) Corn is a carbohydrate that leads to

weight gainb) Corn syrup has more empty calories

than cane sugarc) Corn syrup’s faster absorption in the

body may alter appetite regulation

3For roughly the same calories as a 20-ounce bottle of regular soda, you could eat:a) Four Red Delicious applesb) 15 cups of air-popped popcornc) Whole wheat English muffi n with

2 Tbsp. peanut butterd) Any one of the above

4Nuts are a healthy but high calorie snack. An appropriate serving is:a) A small handfulb) Three ouncesc) About a quarter cup, or the size of

a golf ball

5The average 20-ounce sweetened beverage contains:a) 17 tsp. of sugarb) 22 tsp. of sugarc) 10 tsp. of sugar

6The USDA recommends about fi ve ounces of protein per day.* A three-ounce serving is the size of:a) A can of sodab) A deck of cardsc) Two baseballs

7In the 1970s, bagels were a sensible three inches in diameter, 140 calories. How big are many of today’s varieties?a) Nearly 4 inches and 250 caloriesb) About 5 – 6 inches and 350 caloriesc) 3 1/2 inches and 180 calories

8What’s the healthiest way to snack on fruit?a) Juice made from 100% whole fruitb) Vitamin-fortifi ed fruit snacks made

with fruit juice c) Whole, raw fruit

9Women* should have six ounces of grains (food made from wheat, rice, oats, etc.) per day. Which of the following is equivalent

to a one-ounce serving?a) A half cup of pasta b) 15 whole grain crackersc) One large tortilla

0The best way to snack well and manage portions is:a) For larger restaurant meals, wrap up half

before you eatb) Keep healthy snacks ready in your purse,

car, or deskc) Eat snacks that combine proteins and

grainsd) All of the above

Answers: 1-a, 2-c, 3-d, 4-c, 5-a, 6-b, 7-b, 8-c, 9-a, 10-d

1

* Note that individual nutrition needs are based on gender, height, weight, age, health and level of physical activity. The USDA’s recommended amounts may vary.


THE CUTTING EDGE

Look who’s talking!

“THIS LITTLE GUY here wouldn’t start talking,” says Donna Wagner, M.A., C.C.C./S.L.P., pointing to one of the pictures tacked onto her bulletin board. “Soon he started using two- and three-word combinations. Now he chatters with everyone—he practically runs this offi ce!”

The patient was “a late talker,” a common problem treated by Wagner and her colleague, Tanya Verdoljak, M.A., C.C.C./S.L.P. Both are specially trained speech pathologists at Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital who apply research-based techniques when the words just won’t come.

But their frequent success stories aren’t without a few tears.

“These kids become like family to us,” says Verdoljak. “We see them for several months and become invested in their success. When they’re ready to ‘graduate’ from speech, it’s bittersweet.”

BEYOND R’S AND S’S

Many think speech pathologists work mainly with stuttering or pronunciation—“the R’s and S’s,” as Wagner describes it. But they treat a broad range of develop-mental delays and disorders, as well as the psychological-social issues associated with autism and other pragmatic (social) language diffi culties. They also treat patients with a variety of complex speech, language, cognitive and swallowing disorders stemming from brain injuries, as well as stroke, cancer, degenerative disease and other neurological conditions.

In fact, the Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital Speech Therapy Department is one of the few general speech therapy providers in the region, serving both adult hospital inpatients and a large adult and pediatric outpatient population.

“I might treat an adult swallowing patient in the morning at the hospital, then go to the outpatient offi ce to work with kids,” says Wagner. “I walk in with my lab coat still on, and the kids want to know ‘why are you dressed up like a doctor?’’’

Verdoljak adds that this connection to the hospital—seeing diverse, complex speech problems—only improves their work. “We love it. We’re always looking for new ways to meet the needs of our patients and their families.”

HOPE FOR AUTISTIC CHILDREN

One of the team’s most challenging pediatric cases involves Autism Spectrum Disorder, a range of developmental disabilities that cause signifi cant speech and social problems, as well as inappropriate or extreme reactions to surroundings. Autism is the fastest-growing developmental disability (one in 100 births), and its causes and cure continue to elude researchers.

However, research shows that with early intervention by a speech pathologist, two out of three autistic preschoolers can improve communication skills and reduce lifelong care costs by two-thirds.

Wagner and Verdoljak use baby sign language, songs, visual schedules and picture boards to engage autistic patients. Eventually, the hope is that the signs and boards give way to words, sustained eye contact and self-regulation.

“I believe speech therapy offers hope for autistic children. Some start out hiding under the table, not speaking—but then they improve,” says Wagner. “They can learn to communicate, though perhaps in a different way. Quality of life improves dramatically.”

“NEXT GENERATION” TECHNOLOGY

The same team helping kids discover their communication skills helps adults regain them. Their adult patients are usually struggling with a brain injury, stroke, or head and neck cancer—conditions that make it diffi cult to talk or swallow.

Allison Hoffman, M.S., C.C.C./S.L.P., a senior speech pathologist in the department, received additional training (as did Wagner and Verdoljak) required to operate an advanced VitalStim® machine called Experia,™ which uses deep, non-invasive neuromuscular electrical stimulation to aid in swallowing. Experia™ is a technology that delivers a wider range of modalities to enhance neuromuscular stimulation. The machines allow patients to watch themselves swallowing, which enhances the therapeutic effects.

“Until recently, we were the only hospital in Illinois that had this equipment,” says Hoffman. “When you can augment proven traditional therapies with cutting-edge technology—that’s a tremendous benefi t for patients.”

Tips for Parents and Caregivers

The causes of speech problems aren’t always clear—parents are usually doing everything right. But keep these tips in mind:• Learn child development milestones.

At 18 months, children should speak several single words.

• Keep talking, using simple language. Donna Wagner, M.A., C.C.C./S.L.P., says, “Drive yourself crazy with the sound of your own voice.”

• Read and sing to your children and label objects in their world.

• Remember that young children learn from repetition.

• Keep in mind that the American Academy of Pediatrics does not recommend television for children under the age of two.

• Be wary of the claim, “he’ll talk when he’s ready.” If you have concerns, contact a speech pathologist for a screening.

The Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital Speech Therapy Department offers free screenings for children in the community, in addition to therapeutic services. Visit lfh.org/events.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control’s campaign, Learn the Signs, Act Early, offers free child development information and materials at cdc.gov/ncbddd/actearly.

SPEECH PATHOLOGISTS

TRANSFORM THE LIVES OF

CHILDREN WITH AUTISM

AND OTHER CHALLENGES.

“ These kids become like family to us. We see

them for several months and become invested

in their success. When they’re ready to

‘graduate’ from speech, it’s bittersweet.”

“ I believe speech therapy

offers hope for autistic

children.”

“THIS LITTLE GU

talking,” says D/S.L.P.

ck

Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital patient Gabe Newman, speech therapists Tanya Verdoljak, M.A., C.C.C./S.L.P. and Donna Wagner, M.A., C.C.C./S.L.P.


SUPPORTING NORTHWESTERN LAKE FOREST HOSPITAL

RECENT ILLINOIS LEGISLATION establishes a special Stroke Certifi cation for hospitals: a new set of requirements that will save more lives and lessen the need for institutional care. The law means that ambulances may travel to a hospital with a stroke-certifi ed emergency room—even if it’s much further away.

Fortunately, an endowment gift from the Frederick Henry Prince Memorial Fund was made to Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital on behalf of the Wood-Prince Family to establish the Wood-Prince Family Stroke Center. The center will enable the hospital to earn certifi cation as early as spring of 2010—and allow local care to keep pace with higher standards for stroke care.

A FAMILY TRADITION

Alain and Barbara Wood-Prince consider Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital part of what makes Lake Forest an exceptional community. Barbara was a long and loyal member of the hospital’s Women’s Auxiliary Board. Alain, Barbara and their children have received care at the hospital for many years, and several grandchildren were born at the hospital.

The gift is a perfect fi t with the family’s long-time tradition of supporting advanced health care technology and training—support that keeps a community hospital like Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital at the forefront of care.

“We feel privileged to direct this gift from the Frederick Henry Prince Memorial Fund to Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital,” said Alain

Wood-Prince. “Our ancestor Frederick Henry Prince had a great appreciation of quality health care, and he strongly believed in the need to support care-giving institutions.”

ENHANCING EXISTING STROKE CARE

Stroke certifi cation will require some new technology, but the primary focus is on staff development and greater internal coordination of existing medical expertise—changes enabled by the new Wood-Prince Family Stroke Center.

“Achieving Stroke Center certifi cation will allow us to capitalize on the individual superb elements for stroke care that we already have: tremendous EMS presence, a highly trained ER staff, wonderful diagnostic support from Diagnostic Imaging, the skills of our neurology and neurosurgery staff, as well as capable critical care teams,” says Jack Franaszek, M.D., Medical Director of the Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital Emergency Department. “By coordinating these terrifi c professionals, the talents of our resources and people will serve patients even better.”

“It’s very gratifying to know that the Wood-Prince Family Stroke Center will enhance the vital emergency care that Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital offers to the community,” says Alain Wood-Prince.

“We’re grateful for the generosity of the Wood-Prince family,” said Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital President, Thomas J. McAfee. “Their gift helps us take the critical next step with our Emergency Department and improve care for residents in the community who are at risk for a stroke—as well as the thousands who visit our ED each year.”

The Wood-Prince family transforms stroke care GENEROUS GIFT ESTABLISHES THE

WOOD-PRINCE FAMILY STROKE CENTER

AT NORTHWESTERN LAKE FOREST HOSPITAL


main telephone

847 234 5600patient scheduling

847 535 8000

physician referral

847 535 6171website

nmh.org

health resources

312 926 8400

website

lfh.org

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The FSC trademark identifi es products that contain fi ber from

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NEW HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS

CardiologySUSHIL SHARMA, M.D.

Skokie, 847.673.8005

Internal MedicineVERN DANG, M.D.

Highland Park, 847.433.5864

Internal Medicine HospitalistDANIEL RIVARD, M.D.

Long Grove

Maternal Fetal MedicineBETH PLUNKETT, M.D.

Evanston, 847.570.2860

Medical ToxicologyJERROLD LEIKIN, M.D.

Glenview, 847.657.1700

NeonatologyJOEL FISHER, M.D.

Arlington Heights, 847.618.4230

Obstetrics & GynecologyCARRIE FUNKHAUSER, M.D.

Lake Forest, 847.234.3860

OtolaryngologyJONATHAN POMERANTZ, M.D.

Grayslake, 847.231.5500

Pediatric Hematology/OncologyMORRIS KLETZEL, M.D.

Chicago, 773.880.3265

PediatricsKATHRYN TALERICO, M.D.

Gurnee, 847.367.5400

PodiatryMARK BIRMINGHAM, D.P.M.

Lake Forest, 847.234.5095

Thoracic SurgeryEDWARD HONG, M.D.

Chicago, 312.738.3732

Vascular SurgeryHERON RODRIGUEZ, M.D.

Chicago, 312.695.2714

Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital has expanded its network of new physicians. We welcome these specialists appointed to our staff.

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LAKE FOREST CAMPUS

Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital

700 Medical Offi ce Buildings

Bays Medical Offi ce Building (900)

Cain Family Emergency Services

Dearhaven Child Care & Learning Center

Hunter Family Center forWomen’s Health

Health & Fitness Center

McGaw Medical Offi ce Building (800)

Posy Krehbiel Breast Care Center

Waud Family Maternity Services

Westmoreland Nursing Care Center

GRAYSLAKE CAMPUS

Emergency Center

Audiology and Speech Therapy

Cardiac Testing

Laboratory Services

Occupational Therapy

Physical Therapy

Physician Offi ces

Radiology (Diagnostic Imaging)

Women’s Imaging Center

BANNOCKBURN


GLENVIEW


GURNEE – BROOKSIDE

Home Health Care

Occupational Health

Physician Offi ces


GURNEE –TOWER COURT


LIBERTYVILLE –HOLLISTER DRIVE


LIBERTYVILLE –USG DRIVE

Administrative Offi ces

LINDENHURST

Health & Fitness Center

Physical Therapy

VERNON HILLS

Physical Therapy

Physician Offi ces


Locations

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20 NORTHWESTERN LAKE FOREST HOSPITAL

with physician videos

MAKE THE RIGHT CHOICE

Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital now offers online video profi les of our physicians. Get an immediate sense of the physician’s style and learn more about his or her practice philosophy. It’s our way of providing a more personal, private and convenient way to make this important healthcare decision.

You’ll fi nd video profi les of participating physicians in our online physician directory at lfh.org. New videos are added monthly!

Non-Profi t Org.U.S. Postage

PAIDNorthwestern

Lake Forest Hospital

lfh.org

lfh.org/philanthropy

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660 North Westmoreland RoadLake Forest, Illinois 60045

847.234.5600

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