Pikeville Medical Center News

PIKEVILLE - August is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Pikeville Medical Center encourages women to learn about the medical, physical and social benefits of breastfeeding.

Jeanette Sexton, NICU, Newborn Nursery and Pediatrics Nursing Director, said, "Here at Pikeville Medical Center we strive to help our breastfeeding mothers in any way possible. We also encourage Kangaroo Care, placing the mother and baby skin-to-skin immediately after birth."

Michelle Elkins, of Pikeville, is a mother of two (an eight year old and 10 month old) and says the staff at PMC really helped her with her choice to breastfeed. "They supported me so much with both of my girls. I did not have anyone at home who had experience with breastfeeding, so I completely depended on the staff to show me what to do. At first, there were times when I got really frustrated, but they kept encouraging me. They were constantly coming in to check on me and educate me on new techniques and different ways to hold my baby when breastfeeding."

Elkins also said after leaving the hospital, the staff were still helpful.

Breast milk is known to provide the best nutrients for a new baby, and is more easily digested than infant formula. Babies who are breastfed are given the antibodies they need to fight off viruses and bacteria, and have a reduced risk of developing asthma/allergies.

The longer one breastfeeds, the more benefits a baby receives. Breastfeeding a baby for six months, without any formula, can cause them to have fewer ear infections, respiratory illnesses, stomach problems and trips to the doctor or hospital.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) also attributes breastfeeding to helping prevent sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

Elkins strongly believes in breastfeeding and said she is committed to the first year no matter what.

"Keeping the commitment is the difficult part, especially when you're a working mom," said Elkins.

"But you do it for them-seeing how healthy they are and knowing other children who have earaches and other illnesses breastfeeding helps eliminate. It's also the bond you experience when you are feeding them and you know that you are giving them everything they need. It is just a wonderful feeling. Not everyone has the opportunity to breastfeed, and I feel blessed I was able to not just once, but twice."

The baby is not the only one who benefits. Breastfeeding mothers also have a lot to gain, including: returning to their pre-pregnancy weight sooner and a reduced risk of having breast and ovarian cancer, as well as osteoporosis. The skin-to-skin contact and close eye contact breastfeeding provides also gives mothers strong emotional bonds with their babies, helping them reduce stress and relax.

Elkins speaks of her experience, "There are just moments when they are eating and they look up at you and grab your face. It's the sweetest and most precious moment."

Breastfeeding is also cost efficient, potentially saving a mother more than $1,500 in infant formula-related expenses during the first year alone.

More education on the benefits of breastfeeding and how to breastfeed is offered through PMC's Childbirth classes. For more information on the classes, or to sign up, call Rita Crum, Staff Development Specialist, at 606-218-3525.

Sources:

http://webmd.com

http://marchofdimes.com

http://womenshealth.gov

http://fitpregnancy.com

PIKEVILLE - Pikeville Medical Center is proud to announce the addition of Dr. Josh Hill, DPM, to its Orthopedic Physician Practice. Dr. Hill is a podiatrist brings a new service line to PMC.

"I chose to come to PMC because I want to help an underserved area," said Dr. Hill. "Podiatry is completely new to the hospital, and I see that as an opportunity to help patients."

Dr. Hill received his medical degree from Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine in Philadelphia in 2007.

He completed his three year surgical residency at University of Louisville Hospital and Jewish Hospital Kentucky One Health.

Dr. Hill specializes in foot and ankle deformities and disorders, general and diabetic wound care and limb salvage.

He is trained in vascular, neurological, dermatologic and biomechanical treatments of the foot and ankle.

"I'm excited to bring my area of expertise to the area and help those in need," said Hill.

"One of the most rewarding aspects of my job is when people come to see me, there can be instant gratification. I can help them. I can ease their pain. I can save their foot or ankle."

A native of Tennessee, Dr. Hill is excited to practice in Pikeville. "I'm from a small town," he said. "After I finished medical school, I knew I wanted to go back and practice in a small town as well."

Hill resides in Pikeville with his wife, Catherine, a Kentucky native, and his 7-year-old daughter, Chloe. He enjoys automobile racing and building, hiking and playing football, baseball and basketball.

For more information about PMC's Podiatry services, call the Orthopedic Physician Practice at 606-432-1547.

PIKEVILLE - Pikeville Medical Center welcomes Cardiologist Dr. Hari Krishna Nallapaneni to the Heart and Vascular Institute. He joins Cardiologists Dr. Jose Velazquez and Dr. Denzil Harris in the Pikeville Medical Specialty Clinic in Grundy, Va.

Dr. Nallapaneni graduated from Guntur Medical College University of Health Sciences in Andhra Pradesh, India. He completed his Residency in Internal Medicine at St. Louis University School of Medicine and his Cardiology Fellowship at the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha, Neb.

He is certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine.

Progressive leadership demonstrated by PMC President/CEO Walter E. May greatly contributed to Dr. Nallapaneni's decision to join Pikeville Medical Center.

"For many years, I worked in a small town like Pikeville," he said. "After interviewing with Mr. May, I was very impressed with the vision he had for the region and PMC. I think PMC is the ideal place to practice, with the ultimate goal of better health care delivery for the people of Pikeville and surrounding areas."

Dr. Nallapaneni specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular disease. He plans to contribute to and expand research, education and clinical care.

He is married to Dr. Naga Neelima Nallapaneni, who will be joining PMC's Nephrology Department next year. The Nallapanenis have a one-year-old daughter.

In his spare time, he enjoys playing chess and is an amateur astronomer.

His office is located at Pikeville Medical Center Specialty Clinic at 1535 Slate Creek Road in Grundy, Va. For more information about PMC's Specialty Clinic in Grundy, VA, call 276-935-1640.

Medical Leader | JESSICA HOWARD

GRATEFUL: Harold resident James Tackett is pictured alongside Pikeville Medical Center Neurosurgeon Dr. Duane Densler one year after suffering a near fatal ATV accident.

PIKEVILLE - Wearing a helmet while operating an ATV reduces the risk of fatal head injury by 42 percent and the risk of non-fatal head injury by 64 percent.

Most people don't understand the importance of ATV safety statistics until they, or a loved one, are involved in an ATV accident.

James Tackett, 20, of Harold, experienced firsthand the importance of observing riding safety.

On August 11, 2012, at 9:25 p.m., James was riding his four-wheeler from his uncle's house to his house at 25 mph (less than a 30-second drive). In an instant, an accident left James lying on the ground, unconscious and not breathing.

After a few minutes he began breathing again and in less than 30 minutes, James was being transported by ambulance to PMC's Emergency Department (ED).

James was diagnosed with two severe skull fractures, leaving his skull severely swollen and bleeding.

Neurosurgeon Dr. Duane Densler drilled a hole in his head to relieve the skull's swelling and pressure.

Twenty-four hours later, James was taken to surgery where Dr. Densler removed a 4" x 6" circular piece of his skull from the right side of his head.

"He had such severe cerebral edema (swelling of the brain) that it was life-threatening," said Dr. Densler. "We rushed him off to surgery, where I removed a 4" x 6" bone flap from his skull to allow the brain to swell. In order to preserve the skull, we placed the flap in a pocket in his lower left abdomen."

After surgery, James stayed in a medical coma in PMC's intensive care unit (ICU) for two and a half weeks.

Peggy Tackett, James' mother, said, "During that time, his body went through so many changes and his head swelled until it was unrecognizable. If I wasn't his mom and I didn't know that was him, I wouldn't have recognized him."

Once he woke up from his coma, James continued treatment on the seventh floor and Inpatient Physical Rehabilitation Hospital. James left the hospital on Sept. 7.

On October 29, James returned to the hospital for a follow-up surgery.

Today, one year later, James suffers from normal side effects from his injury, including: headaches, numbness, mood swings and dizziness.

Dr. Densler has told the family it will take at least two years for his head to completely heal.

"He is one of the lucky ones," said Dr. Densler. "Most people who have the injury he did don't survive. It was the rapid transit from the ED to surgery, the superb ICU care, and everything working together perfectly, just as it should, that helped James experience a remarkable recovery."

The Tackett family knows they have experienced a miracle.

"I truly believe if it wasn't for the good Lord and Dr. Densler, my son would not be here today," said Peggy. "Dr. Densler will always be in my heart, and if I go 20 years and do not see this man, I will think of him every day because of what he has done for my son."

After James' accident, the Tackett family lost two other family members to fatal ATV accidents. They too, were not wearing helmets.

Peggy expresses the importance of riding safely, "I want people to realize that I was blind to what could happen. Did I expect a broken leg or arm? Of course. But something this extreme? No. I don't want others to experience what I did, because it is horrible."

Peggy continued, "My life changed on August 11, and I will probably never be the same again. It's one thing when you hear of other kids being in an accident-your heart goes out to them. But, it's another thing to see your own child - your whole life - laying there. It's the worst thing. Riders need to wear helmets, and parents need to open their eyes and realize it can happen. It did happen and not even 30 seconds from home."

Having been trained in trauma care, Dr. Densler knows that James will not be the last patient he sees with this kind of injury. He stated, "The best thing to prevent brain injury while riding is wearing a helmet.

James and his family are appreciative at PMC's Neurosurgery team, as well as all the nurses and everyone who took care of them in the Emergency Department, the ICU, seventh floor and the Inpatient Physical Rehabilitation Hospital.

"We thank PMC for all they did," said Peggy. "Everyone was so wonderful."

James also sends his sincere appreciation to the Toller Creek Fire Department, TransStar Emergency Services, family, friends and everyone who prayed for him.

Sources:

http://preventinjury.org

http://webmd.com

Riley Randall Sturm-Rhudy, son of Megan and Christopher Sturm-Rhudy, born May 9, weight: 6 lbs. 15 oz.

Aspen Rayne Slone, daughter of Jessica and Brandon Slone, born August 5, weight: 8 lbs. 10 oz.

Trinity Isabella Grace Tuers, daughter of Kayla and Jonathan Tuers, born August 5, weight: 5 lbs.

Kerenza Jade Simpson, daughter of Cassandra Belcher and Carl Simpson, born August 5, weight: 4 lbs. 8 oz.

Gabrielle Aleece Taylor, daughter of Tabitha Trammell and Richard Taylor, born August 7, weight: 6 lbs. 6 oz.

Maverick Dean Dixon, son of Kayla and Bryan Dixon, born August 8, weight: 7 lbs. 1 oz.

Clifton Jase Hatfield, son of Ami and Clifton Hatfield, born August 8, weight: 7 lbs. 9 oz.

Ryder Lee Smith, son of Mashae Balo and Tommy Smith, born August 9, weight: 7 lbs. 7 oz.

Lilla Claire Barnett, daughter of Crystal and Bradley Barnett, born August 9, weight: 7 lbs. 6 oz.

Whitley Elise McGuire, daughter of Amy and Brandon McGuire, born August 9, weight: 8 lbs. 11 oz.

Alexis Isabella McPeek, daughter of Amy and Kenneth McPeek, born August 9, weight: 8 lbs.

Tia Sophia Maria Saylor, daughter of Amber and Shannon Saylor, born August 9, weight: 6 lbs. 5 oz.

Jackson Konner Hayden, son of Johnna and Nathan Hayden, born August 9, weight: 8 lbs. 2 oz.

Zane Austin Powell, son of Abbey Webb and Brandon Powell, born August 9, weight: 7 lbs. 12 oz.

PIKEVILLE - Pikeville Medical Center welcomes Cardiologist Dr. Tim Damron to the Heart and Vascular Institute.

He began practicing on August 5.

Dr. Damron received his education at Marshall University School of Medicine in Huntington, W.Va.

He also completed his internship and residency in internal medicine and a fellowship in cardiovascular medicine at the Marshall University School of Medicine.

He is board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine.

Dr. Tim Damron specializes in preventive and general cardiology, transthoracic echocardiography, transesophageal echocardiography, stress echocardiography, holter monitoring, impedance cardiography, stress testing, cardiac computed tomography angiography, and diagnostic cardiac catheterization (invasive cardiology).

When deciding on his career path, he said he knew he wanted to be a specialist and the opportunities for the future of cardiology were promising.

Dr. Damron is excited to join PMC, stating, "Pikeville Medical Center is an outstanding hospital. I am really impressed with the setup, as far as the organization and the services offered to the patients. The hospital also has a lot to offer professionally. The draw throughout the area is huge - probably more than Huntington and Charleston [W.Va.] combined."

For 23 years he has been married to his wife Becky.

They have four children, Sarah and Katie, who currently attend Marshall University, and twin boys Andrew and Luke.

In his spare time, Dr. Damron enjoys playing golf, fishing, working with his wife and their church youth group, and spending time with his family.

He joins Dr. Rodney Handshoe, Dr. Waqas Ahmed, Dr. Denzil Harris, Dr. Jose Velazquez, Dr. Hari Nallapaneni in PMC's Heart and Vascular Institute.

Dr. Damron's offices are located in South Williamson and Prestonsburg.

For more information about PMC's Heart and Vascular Institute, call 606-218-2939.

Medical Leader | TEDDY PAYNTER

SPECIAL VISIT: U.S. Congressman Harold "Hal" Rogers visited with Pikeville Medical Center President and Chief Executive Officer Walter E. May, Chief Operating Officer Juanita Deskins, board members and hospital officials to personally thank PMC for its continued support of Operation UNITE. Also pictured is State Senator Ray S. Jones II.

PIKEVILLE - Dr. Naveed Ahmed, Neurologist and Director of Pikeville Medical Center's Primary Stroke Center; Emergency Department (ED) physician Dr. Anthony Keene; and Marcella Sincell, RN, recently broke a record at PMC and in Kentucky for how quickly they provided care to a stroke patient. In this case, a three-minute door to needle (DTN) time was recorded, compared to the national guideline goal of 60 minutes for patients who are candidates to receive the clot-busting medication tissue plasminogen activator (tPA).

The American Heart Association (AHA) and the American Stroke Association (ASA) define DTN time as the amount of time between a patient's arrival to the hospital and the time he or she receives tPA.

Stephanie Turner, Stroke Coordinator at PMC, said, "We know the faster we move now, the better our patient's chance of moving later. This door-to-needle time of three minutes sets a new Pikeville Medical Center record, and it's the fastest time in Kentucky this year for treating a stroke patient."

She continued, "At the time of arrival, the patient could not communicate and was experiencing slurring of speech, right-sided weakness and constricted leg movement. The quick and professional treatment given by our Acute Stroke Care Team allowed the patient to be sent home from the hospital in two days, suffering no disabilities."

PMC has the only Primary Stroke Center in the area and was recently awarded the AHA's and ASA's Get with the Guidelines Stroke Gold Plus Award.

According to Dr. Ahmed, the patient and his wife chose PMC because they heard about its award-winning Primary Stroke Center.

Dr. Ahmed commends PMC's Acute Stroke Care Team, Neurologist Dr. Sujata Gutti and all of the ED, Neurosurgery, Critical Care and Inpatient Physical Rehabilitation staff who work together every day to provide life-saving treatment.

He also praised those who treated the patient prior to arrival. "PMC would not have been able to achieve this record-breaking DTN time without the quick patient assessment and transfer to PMC's ED by Dr. Mansoor Mahmood and the exceptional communication provided by Emergency Medical Services."

PMC's Neurologists, Neurosurgeons, Acute Stroke Care Team, ED and CT/MRI technicians are available 24/7 to quickly identify and treat patients suffering from a stroke.

To ensure someone suffering from a stroke receives the care he or she needs in a timely manner, PMC encourages everyone to learn the signs of stroke and call 9-1-1 at the onset of symptoms.

Sources: American Heart Association; American Stroke Association

Stroke Signs

F.A.S.T is an easy way to remember the sudden signs of stroke. When you can spot the signs, you'll know that you need to call 9-1-1 for help right away. F.A.S.T. is:

Face drooping - Does one side of the face droop or is it numb? Ask the person to smile. Is the person's smile uneven?

Arm Weakness - Is one arm weak or numb? Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?

Speech Difficulty - Is speech slurred? Is the person unable to speak or hard to understand? Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence, like "The sky is blue." Is the sentence repeated correctly?

Time to call 9-1-1 - When someone shows any of the above symptoms, even if the symptoms go away, call 9-1-1 and get that person to the hospital immediately. Check the time so you'll know when the first symptoms appeared.

Beyond F.A.S.T. - Other Symptoms You Should Know:

Sudden numbness or weakness of the leg

Sudden confusion or trouble understanding

Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes

Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination

Sudden severe headache with no known cause

Source:

http://strokeassociation.org

PIKEVILLE - On July 5, 2012, Nathan Collum, 15, of Floyd County, was cooking a frozen hotdog in hot cooking oil and severely burned his chest, arms and face causing his body to blister.

Rachel Hamilton, Collum's grandmother, reports that by the time she reached her grandson's house, his body was jerking and was about to go into shock.

"By the time we arrived to the hospital, he was in a lot of pain," said Hamilton. "As soon as we walked into the ED, they knew what had happened without asking. The staff took us back immediately. That really impressed me. In the room, the nurses quickly assessed him and applied saline compresses to cool him off. Less than 10 minutes later, ED physician Dr. Mullins came in and prescribed him medication to relieve his pain."

Hamilton continued, "After we left the ED, I thought about how good they were to my grandson and how quickly they gave him the treatment he needed. I want them to know how much I appreciate the way they took care of him. Just everybody there from start to finish; it was such a good experience. I had never had that happen at an emergency room before. Everybody knew exactly what they were supposed to do, how to do it and in the exact time they needed to."

Today, Collum is almost completely recovered and is looking forward to Betsy Layne High School's upcoming football season, where he plays as freshman running back.

Parker Huston Robinson, son of Ashley Jones and Gregory Robinson, born August 9, weight: 7 lbs. 9 oz.

Ian Thomas Butler, son of Tiffany Adams and Matthew Butler, born August 11, weight: 6 lbs. 14 oz.

Penelope Joy Ruth, daughter of Jodie Mullins, born August 12, weight: 7 lbs. 12 oz.

Destini Rose Smallwood, daughter of Amanda and Calep Smallwood, born August 12, weight: 6 lbs. 6 oz.

Jon Ervin Luke Williamson, son of Stephanie and Patrick Williamson, born August 12, weight: 6 lbs. 12 oz.

Wesson Tripp Ward, son of Courtney and Jon Ward, born August 12, weight: 7 lbs. 10.5 oz.

Kolby William Coleman, son of Mary Beth and Tyler Dale Coleman, born August 13, weight: 8 lbs. 9 oz.

Malachi Ray Thacker, son of Penny Thacker, born August 14, weight: 7 lbs. 7 oz.

Evelyn Ann Stephens, daughter of Catherine and Frank Stephens, born August 14, weight: 7 lbs. 15.5 oz.

Easton Dakota Ison, son of Brooklyn Sturgill and Kaleb Ison, born August 15, weight: 6 lbs. 6 oz.

Baylee Keith Prater, son of Charlie and Vance Prater, born August 15, weight: 9 lbs. 5 oz.

Brendon Cade Richard Yates, son of Taylor Totten, born August 15, weight: 7 lbs. 6.5 oz.

Carter Scott Daniels, son of Latessia and Samual Daniels, born August 15, weight: 8 lbs. 12 oz.

William Jacob Fields, son of Georgia Scott and Johnathan Fields, born August 15, weight: 6 lbs. 6 oz.

James Anthony Dean Thacker, son of Natasha and Garriet Thacker, born August 15, weight: 7 lbs. 4 oz.

Addison Grace Easterling, daughter of Shonna Sparks and Cody Easterling, born August 15, weight: 7 lbs. 11 oz.

Ethan Claude Blackburn, son of Angela and Dennis Blackburn, born August 15, weight: 5 lbs. 3 oz.

Easton Harper Chambers, daughter of Holly and Shane Chambers, born August 16, weight: 7 lbs. 15 oz.

Bentlee Mason Dean Keathley, son of Mandy and Patrick Keathley, born August 16, weight: 5 lbs. 11 oz.

Easton Parker Tackett, son of Kali Orsborn and Richie Tackett, born August 16, weight: 8 lbs. 8 oz.

Lilly Faith Stewart, daughter of Danielle and Matt Stewart, born August 16, weight: 8 lbs. 10 oz.

Madilyn Sofia Sawyers, daughter of Kayla Sawyers, born August 16, weight: 7 lbs. 1.4 oz.

Joseph Ashton Lynch, son of Joanna Sowards and Matthew Lynch, born August 16, weight: 5 lbs. 13 oz.

Kynnslee Grayce Grizzle, daughter of Tiffanie and Cody Grizzle, born August 17, weight: 8 lbs. 1 oz.

Kaden Reece Wallen, son of Stacy and Shawn Wallen, born August 17, weight: 6 lbs. 5 oz.

Laurissa Raine Slone, daughter of Misty Miller and Leo Slone, born August 18, weight: 7 lbs. 9 oz.

PIKEVILLE - Pikeville Medical Center (PMC) is the only hospital in Kentucky to be named in the 100 Best Places to Work in Healthcare by Modern Healthcare and Best Companies Group. This marks PMC's fifth year on the list.

Modern Healthcare states that the Best Places program "honors workplaces throughout the healthcare industry that empower employees to perform at their optimum level to provide patients and customers with the best possible care, products and services."

"It is very important to us that our employees care about the important work they do," said President/CEO Walter E. May. "We often hear from patients that they have been treated like family, and that happens because our employees believe in the Golden Rule - do unto others as you would have them do unto you."

"Our employees go the extra mile every day," said Juanita Deskins, Chief Operating Officer. "Being named one of the Best Places to Work in Healthcare further confirms our employees' commitment to provide quality regional health care in a Christian environment."

Melissa Coleman, Assistant Vice President of Human Resources and Chairman of the Hospital's Employer of Choice Team, said, "Our employees are the reason Pikeville Medical Center continues to be listed among the best healthcare providers in Kentucky and the nation. It is their compassion and daily dedication to teamwork that set us apart."

In order to qualify for this prestigious honor, health care organizations from across the country had to complete a two-part process: (1) an evaluation of workplace policies, practices and demographics worth 25 percent of the total score; and (2) an employee survey that accounted for the remaining 75 percent.

The 2013 final rankings will be announced on Thursday, Oct. 24, during the sixth annual Best Places to Work in Healthcare banquet in Atlanta.

Lillith-Rose Jean Marie McCray, daughter of Candace McCray, born August 17, weight: 2 lbs. 3 oz.

Caylee Bella Tackett, daughter of Crystal and Joshua Tackett, born August 18, weight: 7 lbs. 11 oz.

Parker Grant Honeycutt, son of Shonda and Grant Honeycutt, born August 19, weight: 7 lbs. 6 oz.

Cash Ryker Collins, son of Holly Abshire, born August 19, weight: 8 lbs.

Myles Alexander Burnett, son of Stacy and Shannon Burnett, born August 19, weight: 7 lbs. 4 oz.

Aliyah Jade Hudgins, daughter of Jasmine Fuller and Anthony Hudgins, born August 19, weight: 6 lbs. 1 oz.

Talia Alnajjar, daughter of Hanady Qrunfuleh and Raed Alnajjar, born August 20, weight: 7 lbs. 2 oz.

Alexandria Claire Lester, daughter of Amanda and Mason Lester, born August 20, weight: 7 lbs. 11.2 oz.

Brayden Derek Prater, son of Jamie Bray, born August 21, weight: 4 lbs. 3 oz.

Sophia Rayne Hughes, daughter of Chasity Marrs and Matthew Ryan Hughes, born August 21, weight: 3 lbs. 11 oz.

Makinley Grace Robinson, daughter of Krista and Shawn Robinson, born August 21, weight: 6 lbs. 7 oz.

Braxton Keith Dotson, son of Latasha Thomas, born August 21, weight: 8 lbs. 12 oz.

Whitney Nichole Bentley, daughter of Julie and Nathanuel Bentley, born August 21, weight: 7 lbs. 10 oz.

Reagan Brooke Lee, daughter of Deana Lafferty and Curtis Lee, born August 21, weight: 9 lbs. 15 oz.

Ava Grace Wallace, daughter of Linda and Zachary Wallace, born August 22, weight: 6 lbs. 11 oz.

Hayden Mullins, son of Tiffany and Eddie Mullins, born August 22, weight: 4 lbs. 10.4 oz.

Buford Alexander Darrell Collins, son of Jessica and John Collins, born August 23, weight: 8 lbs. 12 oz.

Aubree Paige Cantrell, daughter of Jessica and Kenneth Cantrell, born August 23, weight: 7 lbs. 8 oz.

Aiden Scott Justice, son of Terra and Jordan Justice, born August 23, weight: 7 lbs. 13 oz.

James Barrett Sword, son of Anna and James Sword, born August 24, weight: 8 lbs. 8 oz.

Da'Moni Raeshaun Christian, son of Kendra Adkins and Ron Christian, born August 24, weight: 7 lbs. 14 oz.

Alissa Dawn Stanley, daughter of Grace Mullins and Dakota Stanley, born August 24, weight: 5 lbs. 9.5

PIKEVILLE - School is back in session, and the beginning of cold season (late August/early September) isn't far behind.

According to the Alliance for Consumer Education, "Children contract eight or more colds per year. This contagious viral infection of the upper respiratory tract is the most common infectious disease in the United States and is the number one reason kids visit the doctor and stay home from school."

Someone suffering from a cold may experience a sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, coughing, headache, mild fever, fatigue, muscle aches, loss of appetite and thick nasal discharge that is dark yellow or green.

Colds are most contagious during the first two to four days after symptoms appear, but may stay contagious for up to three weeks.

To avoid a bad cold season, Pikeville Medical Center's Family Practice Clinic urges parents to plan ahead by making sure all family members know the best way to help ward off illness.

"It is imperative to practice good hand washing when trying to prevent your child from getting sick," said Dr. Maleshea Dunning, Medical Education and Residency Program Director. "Nearly 22 million school days are lost each year because of the common cold. Frequent hand washing and not sharing cups, glasses and utensils will decrease the spread of viruses to others."

It is suggested that children wash their hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds (the time it takes to sing the happy birthday song twice).

Good hand washing is undisputedly the most effective way to prevent the common cold, but parents can also help ensure their children stay healthy by teaching them the importance of:

Eating a well balanced diet

Avoiding unnecessary stress

Getting regular exercise and plenty of rest

Staying up-to-date on yearly physicals and immunizations

Having his/her own set of school supplies

Staying home from school when sick

Avoiding contact with others who are sick

Not sharing food, drink or any personal items with someone else

Dr. Dunning recommends that parents seek medical attention for their child if they notice changes in his or her energy levels, decreased fluid intake or a fever that persists for more than 48 hours and does not respond to Tylenol and Motrin.

"Parents know their children best and should seek medical assistance anytime they exhibit behavior contrary to their norm," said Dunning.

Source: Weather.com

Stopgerms.org

Kidshealth.org

Children.webmd.com

Medical Leader | SUBMITTED PHOTO

NEW POSITION: Cheryl Hickman, vice president-assistant to the president/CEO of Pikeville Medical Center, was announced as the newest member of Operation UNITE's Board of Directors by Congressman Harold "Hal" Rogers during a stop in Pikeville on August 8. Pictured from left are UNITE President/CEO Dan Smoot, Hickman, Congressman Rogers, and Kentucky Senator Ray S. Jones II.

PIKEVILLE - Emphasizing the importance of having the medical community's input on efforts to stop substance abuse, Operation UNITE and Pikeville Medical Center have teamed up to provide a seat on the anti-drug organization's Board of Directors.

This partnership and appointment of Cheryl Hickman, PMC vice president-assistant to President/CEO Walter E. May, was announced by Fifth District Congressman Harold "Hal" Rogers during a stop in Pikeville on Thursday, August 8.

"UNITE's success continues to thrive through great partnerships across Kentucky, and this partnership with the Pikeville Medical Center is another example of two forces teaming up against the drug abuse epidemic," Rogers said. "Cheryl Hickman is passionate about health care and substance abuse treatment. I am confident that her presence on the board will help UNITE plan for the future."

Hickman, who will serve a three-year term, attended her first board meeting on Tuesday, August 20.

"I consider it a privilege and an honor to sit on the UNITE Board of Directors," Hickman said. "UNITE has worked very hard to make a difference

in the war on drugs in eastern Kentucky and, because of this, inroads have been made to stop the pill mills in this area. This is making a difference for the future of eastern Kentucky."

Now in it's 10th year, the organization works to rid communities of illegal drug use through undercover narcotics investigations, coordinating treatment for substance abusers, providing support to families and friends of substance abusers, and educating the public about the dangers of using drugs. UNITE's goal is to educate and activate individuals by developing and empowering community coalitions to no longer accept or tolerate the drug culture.

UNITE is governed by an 11-member Board of Directors.

"I am proud to have Cheryl Hickman representing Pikeville Medical Center on the Operation UNITE's Board of Directors," May stated. "Operation UNITE is immensely important to our community in the battle against drug abuse. I am confident that Mrs. Hickman will represent Pikeville Medical Center and the community well."

PIKEVILLE - Willie Brewer Jr. and his wife Brenda Kay Brewer of Combs, Ky., praise God for sending Pikeville Medical Center Cardiologist and Electrophysiologist Dr. Michael Antimisiaris into their lives.

Nearly 12 years ago, Willie, now 63 years old, was diagnosed with cardiomyopathy, which was leading to congestive heart failure (CHF).

Cardiomyopathy weakens and enlarges the heart's muscle, making it more difficult for the heart to pump and deliver blood to the rest of the body, and causing increased pressure. It can also trigger the body to hold water and salt, causing the body to be congested or clogged.

Willie almost lost his life on three different occasions and visited several hospitals and specialists, Willie was given a chance of survival of less than five percent and was told by physicians there was nothing more that could be done.

At that time, a nurse, "their angel," who had heard Willie's diagnosis, suggested he go see Dr. Antimisiaris, who at the time practiced in Lexington, Ky.

Dr. Antimisiaris also diagnosed Willie with atrial fibrillation (AFib), which occurs when the heart's upper chambers beat abnormally.

To treat Willie's heart, Dr. Antimisiaris installed an implantable cardioverter defibrillator to detect and stop any abnormal heart beats. He also performed an AV node ablation to help control Willie's heartbeat and reduce symptoms related to AFib.

"The next day, Willie felt like he could lift the hospital," said Brenda. "He felt alive again."

Throughout the next several years, Dr. Antimisiaris continued to treat Willie, placing him in the hospital six different times, putting him on medicine to control his heart rhythm and operating on him when needed.

"He kept us informed every step of the way," said Brenda. "He would sit down and go over everything that was happening step by step."

After all of the treatments, Willie's heart was still very weak. Dr. Antinimisiaris suggested cryoablation therapy.

Through cryoablation therapy, a balloon is inserted into the patient's veins and a liquid is used to freeze the affected areas in an effort to treat the patient's abnormal arrhythmia problems.

Willie underwent cryoablation therapy on March 5, 2012.

From that day, he began to feel better and eventually came off all medications prescribed to help regulate his heart beat.

"Thank God for Dr. Antinimisiaris and for all he has done," said Willie. "I loved the way he treated me; I couldn't have been treated any better. I would have probably been dead if it hadn't been for him."

Willie also praises everyone who treated him during his hospital stay. "I can't say enough about Jimer Battaile, Director of Arrhythmia, and all of the staff at Pikeville Medical Center who took care of me. I thank them so much for how well they treated me and my family. They made us feel at home and the facility is so clean. If I ever need anything else done, I say, 'take me to PMC.'"

Dr. Antimisiaris commented on Willie's progress by saying, "10 to 12 years ago, when I met Willie, he was one of the sicker patients I had seen, and his heart was so weak it was in need of a transplant. Today, his heart is functioning normally and is in rhythm all of the time."

"All the credit goes to the good Lord above," said Brenda. "Without Him, none of this would've been possible. He's blessed our lives with Dr. Antimisiaris."

Sources:

http://mayoclinic.com

http://Webmd.com

http://heart.org

Grace Cody Jones, daughter of Brooke and Gerritt Jones, born August 22, weight: 9 lbs. 4 oz.

Baleigh Grace Stancil, daughter of Kelly and Kevin Stancil, born August 22, weight: 8 lbs. 5 oz.

Lucas Ray Lester, son of Angel and Ray Lester, born August 22, weight: 9 lbs. 7 oz.

J'vonte Xavier William Gwyn, son of Felicia Adkins and Deandre Gwyn, born August 24, weight: 8 lbs. 6 oz.

Conner Phillip Spears, son of Jamie and Dustin Spears, born August 26, weight: 7 lbs. 14 oz.

Zayden Alexander Hill, son of Angelina Justice and Randall Hill, born August 26, weight: 6 lbs. 13 oz.

Arabella Grace Abshire, daughter of Trista and James Abshire, born August 26, weight: 5 lbs. 4 oz.

Tyler Reed Branham, son of Elizabeth and Tyler Branham, born August 27, weight: 8 lbs. 3 oz.

Dixie RayLynn Branham, daughter of Amanda and Zachary Branham, born August 27, weight: 7 lbs. 10 oz.

Sierra Paige Rowe, daughter of Ashley Hall and Jason Rowe, born August 27, weight: 7 lbs. 5 oz.

Hunter Keith Stewart, son of Marinda and Ryan Stewart, born August 27, weight: 7 lbs. 1 oz.

Ivory Grace Ratliff, daughter of Letisha and Brandon Ratliff, born August 27, weight: 8 lbs. 1 oz.

Gabriel Alexander Kelly, son of Marjorie and Anthony Kelly, born August 29, weight: 7 lbs. 13 oz.

Parker Aiden Rice, son of Rebecca and Michael Rice, born August 29, weight: 8 lbs. 8 oz.

Livia Delaney Fox, daughter of Darcey Puckett and Casey Fox, born August 29, weight: 6 lbs. 7 oz.

Addison Caraline Adams, daughter of April and Dustin Adams, born August 30, weight: 9 lbs. 7 oz.

Sophia Kay Willliams, daughter of Alyssa and Nathan Williams, born August 30, weight: 7 lbs. 11 oz.

Indiana Jacob Hamilton, son of Tiffany Coleman and Jonathan Hamilton, born August 30, weight: 9 lbs. 3 oz.

Callie Grace Salyers, daughter of Casey and George Salyers, born August 30, weight: 5 lbs. 15 oz.

Kaylee Alaina Price, daughter of Mary and Christopher Price, born August 30, weight: 6 lbs. 10 oz.

PIKEVILLE - Pikeville Medical Center continues to provide cutting-edge diagnostic technology with the addition of Breast MRI, a test used to detect breast cancer and other abnormalities of the breast.

Using a state-of-the-art MRI machine, multiple images are taken from several angles while the patient remains comfortably in one position. Magnetic fields, rather than radiation, are used to create detailed images.

Women with a high risk of breast cancer can greatly benefit from Breast MRI, which may be used in addition to mammography to detect breast cancer.

Breast MRI is used to determine the extent of breast cancer in patients who have been diagnosed, detect cancer recurrences, identify possible breast cancer in women with extremely dense breast tissue, view lumps and questionable tissue found through mammography or ultrasound, and check breast implants for leaks and/or ruptures.

Four radiologists at PMC - Dr. Anthony Kendall, Dr. Garrick Sherman, Dr. Paul Matharoo and Dr. Jeff Settles - have received special training and are accredited by the American College of Radiology (ACR) to read Breast MRI images. In order to receive this accreditation, the ACR reviewed quality control measures, equipment, safety policies and image quality. Physicians, scientists and technologists working with Breast MRI also met specific requirements.

Dr. Kendall said, "Having four accredited radiologists at one hospital is almost unheard of. While I was working toward accreditation, I spoke with a physician who worked at a hospital employing 90 radiologists and only one was accredited."

New technology offering advanced computer graphics for visualization is being used by the radiologists to read Breast MRI images.

To find out more about this service, call 606-218-4934.

Source: Mayo Clinic

PIKEVILLE - On May 3, 2013, Jim Altman, 46 years old of Pikeville, was told by Dr. Tamara Musgrave, personal friend and Pikeville Medical Center Oncologist and Hematologist, that he had large B cell, Non-Hodgkins lymphoma (NHL).

According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), "NHL is a cancer that starts in cells called lymphocytes, which are a part of the body's immune system."

Even though his diagnosis was cancer, this news came as an answered prayer.

Prior to hearing from Dr. Musgrave, Altman had been battling with his health and trying to figure out what was wrong with him for more than two years.

His symptoms started as fatigue and pain in his left shoulder. In the beginning, he was treated for arthritis. He was given medicine and steroid shots, but the pain would not go away.

Eventually a knot (tumor) appeared on top of his shoulder, and an Orthopedic Oncologist suspected Altman had a very rare type of cancer called sarcoma. He was informed that if he was going to beat this cancer, he would need the best surgeon available.

"This was the first time in my life I had ever experienced a life and death situation, personally," said Altman. "My life was in jeopardy."

From that moment forward, Altman immersed himself in prayer.

"I prayed continuously, every opportunity I had-in the elevator, in the waiting room, walking down the hallway," he said.

Altman then traveled to Vanderbilt for a thorough examination and biopsy. He was informed he had NHL and that he had "won the cancer lottery," since NHL is much easier to treat and the chances of survival are much higher than with sarcoma.

Altman felt as though his prayers had been answered.

A few days later he learned that he had a very rare type of NHL. This type is known to have a very low survival rate, and Altman found himself searching for answers again.

Through the next several days, friends and family encouraged Altman through prayer and scripture.

He received the call from Dr. Musgrave saying he had stage one, large B cell NHL, and that this was a very beatable cancer.

"This was the answer to my prayers," said Altman. "When I began praying His will be done and stopped praying for what I wanted, I received the answer."

Altman began treatments immediately at PMC's Leonard Lawson Cancer Center (LLCC), under the direction of Dr. Musgrave.

Altman said, "They really rolled out the red carpet for me, and Dr. Musgrave went above and beyond to make sure I had all the information I needed and made sure I received the best of care."

He continued, "Twenty-four hours after I started chemotherapy, the tennis ball-sized knot (tumor) on my shoulder had shrunk to half its size. Three days later it was visibly gone. It looked like the chemo had just melted it off."

Altman can't say enough about the treatment and personal attention he received at PMC.

"Robin Walters, LLCC Pharmacist, did everything humanly possible to make sure I was taken care of," said Altman. "She always made sure she was working the days I was scheduled for treatment. She even rearranged her vacation for me. She was always there to help if I needed anything."

Altman continued, "Cindy Smith, RN, was my nurse during my first and third rounds of chemotherapy and is definitely in the right field. She went out of her way on numerous occasions to make sure I was alright. She would call me at home and stop me when she saw me in public to ask how I was doing and see if there was anything else she could do for me."

Altman received three rounds of chemotherapy and 20 rounds of radiation therapy.

Today, seven weeks out from his last treatment, he is in remission.

"Getting through the chemotherapy was the hardest thing I have ever had to do," said Altman. "I never could have done it without the care and support of my wife, children, parents, brother, sister, and in-laws. They were always there to pull me through."

Altman summed up his journey with cancer with a quote from the Christian author Phillip Keller: "When a man or woman allows his will to be crossed out, canceling the great 'I' in their decisions, then indeed the Cross has been applied to that life. This is the meaning of taking up one's cross daily - to go to one's own death - no longer my will in the matter but His will be done."

"I am glad God has blessed me with his wonderful gift of life," stated Altman.

Source: http://cancer.org

Dr. Ahmed

PIKEVILLE - Pikeville Medical Center (PMC) has been recognized for successfully implementing a higher standard of care for stroke patients through the American Heart Association (AHA)/American Stroke Association's (ASA) Get With The Guidelines-Stroke quality improvement program.

PMC, a Gold Plus level recipient, was featured in the August issue of US News & World Report's "America's Best Hospitals."

PMC also made the Target: Stroke Honor Roll for ensuring at least 50 percent of eligible stroke patients get prompt treatment to restore blood flow to the brain within 60 minutes of arriving at the hospital - critical to limiting stroke damage.

Get With The Guidelines is a hospital-based, quality improvement program created to ensure hospitals consistently care for heart and stroke patients using the most up-to-date guidelines and recommendations.

"We are pleased to recognize the top hospitals that received Get With The Guidelines awards for stroke care," said Deepak L. Bhatt, M.D., M.P.H., national chairman of the Get With The Guidelines steering committee and Chief of Cardiology at VA Boston Healthcare System, Senior Physician at Brigham and Women's Hospital, and Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School. "Published scientific studies are providing us with more and more evidence that Get With The Guidelines works. Patients are getting the right care they need when they need it. That's resulting in increased survival."

Dr. Naveed Ahmed, PMC Chief of Staff and Stroke Program Medical Director, said, "It is truly an honor for Pikeville Medical Center to be recognized as a Stroke Gold Plus recipient. This esteemed status would not have been possible without the great vision of President and CEO Walter E. May, the support of the hospital's administrative team, and the dedication of PMC's stroke team, including: Neurologist Dr. Sujata Gutti, the Neurosurgery team, local EMS providers and the physicians and staff of the Emergency Department,Critical Care and Primary Stroke Center."

Stroke patients who seek treatment at hospitals recognized by Get With the Guidelines are started on aggressive therapies and medications that can help improve their care and outcomes.

Hospitals must follow measures determined by the stroke quality improvement program at a certain level and for a designated period of time to be eligible for the achievement awards.

Stroke is the number four killer and a leading cause of long-term disability in the United States.

About 795,000 people suffer a new or recurrent stroke each year - one every 40 seconds.

As a doctor dedicated to the care of women with gynecologic cancer, I know that September is an important month.

It is the time to enhance awareness of ovarian cancer, the deadliest gynecological cancer and the fifth leading cause of cancer death among American women. This disease, which starts in the ovaries and spreads to other organs in the abdomen, is highly curable if found in its early stages. All too often, it has already spread at the time of diagnosis and the opportunity for a cure is diminished.

Since there is no effective screening test for the general population, it is critical that women know their level of risk for ovarian cancer and be on the lookout for early symptoms.

The chance of developing ovarian cancer in a woman's lifetime is about 1 in 72. The risk is highest in postmenopausal women (more than 45 years of age) or those who have a family history of ovarian, breast or colon cancer.

Other risk factors include: obesity, infertility and never having been pregnant.

In the past, ovarian cancer was referred to as the "silent killer" because it was thought there weren't any early signs or symptoms.

Now we know that symptoms such as bloating or pressure in the belly, pain in the abdomen or pelvis, feeling full too quickly during meals and urinating more frequently can all be subtle, early warning signs of ovarian cancer.

Additional symptoms of ovarian cancer include: fatigue, upset stomach, indigestion, back pain, pain during intercourse, constipation, menstrual irregularities and abdominal swelling with weight loss.

While most women with these common symptoms don't have ovarian cancer, it is still important that these symptoms be brought to the attention of your health care provider.

Further evaluation could be needed to rule out ovarian cancer.

A blood test called CA-125 and an ultrasound of the ovaries can be used to screen for ovarian cancer, although neither of these tests has been shown to save lives when used to screen women of average risk.

These tests, along with a gynecologic examination, can be useful in detecting ovarian cancer in women with strong risk factors or symptoms.

If ovarian cancer is suspected, minimally invasive surgery is usually required to determine whether the mass inside the body is cancer or a benign ovarian cyst/tumor. If ovarian cancer is diagnosed, additional surgery is needed to determine whether the cancer has spread, and to remove as much of the cancer as possible.

Minimally invasive surgery is not recommended if the tumor is large in size, or if there are signs the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.If the cancer has spread, chemotherapy is used to get rid of any remaining tumor cells.

Studies have shown women with ovarian cancer treated by a gynecologic oncologist have a better survival rate than those treated by a non-specialist.

The Society of Gynecological Oncology states, "A gynecological oncologist is a physician who specializes in diagnosing and treating cancers that are located on a woman's reproductive organs.

Gynecologic oncologists have completed an obstetrics and gynecology residency, as well as an intensive, subspecialty training through a gynecologic oncology fellowship."

When it comes to ovarian cancer, know your risk, know your family history, don't ignore early warning signs and get the best care possible.

If you or someone you know have the symptoms described above, or want to know more about ovarian cancer, talk to your health care provider.

You can ask to be referred to Pikeville Medical Center's Gynecological Oncologist, Dr. Holly Gallion. Dr. Gallion is Board Certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Source: ovariancancer.org

Foundationforwomenscancer.org

sgo.org

mayoclinic.com

Breastfeeding benefits baby and mother

Pikeville Medical Center welcomes Dr. Hill

Pikeville Medical Center welcomes Dr. Nallapaneni

Life-changing experience: ATV accident survivor praises PMC surgeons

The Stork Report

PMC welcomes Dr. Damron

Congressman Rogers thanks PMC for continued support

Stroke care provided in record time at PMC

ED praised for quick treatment

The Stork Report

BEST PLACE TO WORK: Modern Healthcare honors PMC for fifth straight year

Stork Report

Going back to school the healthy way

Hickman to serve on UNITE board

STRONG BEATING HEART: Family praises PMC physician

Stork Report

PMC offers Breast MRI

Cancer survivor praises PMC

Pikeville Medical Center recognized for stroke care

Raising awareness for ovarian cancer