Pikeville Medical Center News

Medical Leader | Photo by BOBBI CASEBOLT

HAPPY FAMILY: Brittany and Scott Little are thrilled that their daughter Emma received the surgery she needed close to home.

Medical Leader | Photo by BOBBI CASEBOLT

IN GOOD HANDS: Dr. Ben Gbulie holds seven-month-old Emma Little shortly before performing a reconstructive surgery that fixed her cleft lip.

PIKEVILLE - Seven-month-old Emma Little sits comfortably in her mom's lap, smiling and cooing playfully at her dad.

You would never know by looking at Emma that she was diagnosed with a cleft lip and cleft palate, a relatively common birth defect, while still in the womb. Her parents, Scott and Brittany Little, credit Dr. Ben Gbulie, a Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon at Pikeville Medical Center (PMC), with giving her a new lease on life.

"We found out at the 20-week ultrasound that we were having a little girl and that she had cleft lip and palate," recalled Brittany. "We were overjoyed to be having a girl, but we couldn't help feeling nervous about her condition, too. If it wasn't for Dr. Gbulie, I don't know what we would have done."

Brittany commended Dr. Angela Maggard, OB-GYN at PMC, for her role in the diagnosis. "She was working at the hospital when I had my ultrasound at her office," Brittany explained. "Instead of making me wait a week to hear the results of the scan, she called me immediately and explained everything to me. She assured me everything would be okay. And she referred us to Dr. Gbulie, which we can't thank her for enough."

After speaking with Dr. Maggard, Scott and Brittany left their ultrasound appointment feeling relieved and thankful that Emma did not have a more serious birth defect.

"We knew God made Emma this way for a reason, so we tried not to worry. We prayed for her and my mom had her put on every prayer chain she could," explained Brittany. "I just had this peace about everything. I knew in my heart she would be born with a cleft lip, but I had this feeling it wouldn't be as severe as we thought."

Fortunately, Brittany and Scott's instincts were right. Emma was born on January 15 with only a cleft lip. Her palate was intact.

Six weeks later, Emma had her first consultation with Dr. Gbulie and her surgery was scheduled for when she was 10 weeks old. However, Scott and Brittany decided to postpone surgery until she was older.

"We talked with Dr. Gbulie and asked if we could wait until she was four months old," Scott said. "She was so little and we were nervous, but he was great about it. He discussed all our options with us. He wanted us to feel comfortable with our daughter's care and that meant a lot.

Emma underwent reconstructive surgery at PMC on May 17.

"When we went in that morning, Dr. Gbulie met us and went over everything again. He even took a picture with our baby," Brittany said. "He was so good with us and with her. I'll never forget that."

The anxious parents were quickly reunited with their baby after surgery.

"I remember when they brought Emma back out to me," Brittany recalled. "It was like meeting my baby for the first time all over again! I couldn't believe how perfect she looked."

Not only were Scott and Brittany overjoyed with Emma's new look, they were also impressed with the follow-up care they received from both Dr. Gbulie and his assistant, Beth Sullivan, Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner.

"Beth and Dr. Gbulie came to our hospital room several times to check on Emma," Scott said. "We wouldn't have received that kind of personal care anywhere else."

"She [Sullivan] knew what she was doing and she really cares about kids," Brittany added." You could tell by how she acted. She did a phenomenal job."

Four months post-surgery, Emma loves to eat, dance, kick her legs and smile.

"I can't explain how thankful we are to PMC, Dr. Gbulie and his team for all they did for our baby," said Brittany. "He was so great with us from the beginning. He was supportive and personable. He cared. It showed in how he treated us. I would recommend Dr. Gbulie to anyone and everyone. God put everything in order the way it was meant to be, and He placed Dr. Gbulie in our lives for a reason. And now we have a happy, healthy baby girl who loves life."

For more information about PMC's plastic and reconstructive surgery services, call 606-218-6211.

PIKEVILLE - Pikeville Medical Center's (PMC) Nephrology Department and Heart and Vascular Institute was recently recognized as a Cardiovascular Center of Excellence by the Consortium for Southeastern Hypertension Control (COSEHC), which works in conjunction with the Wake Forest University School of Medicine's Hypertension Center.

To qualify as a Cardiovascular Center of Excellence, PMC Nephrologist Dr. Donna Sanders submitted a three-year plan to the COSEHC outlining how the hospital will target and improve cardiovascular health throughout the region.

Included in the plan is the opening of a Hypertension Clinic that will facilitate optimal medication and lifestyle management for hypertension, a condition in which the heart has to work too hard to pump blood throughout the rest of the body. Hypertension can contribute to the hardening of arteries and may ultimately lead to heart failure.

The clinic will also help patients:

Set and maintain a target blood pressure range

Understand hypertension and

Explore lifestyle modifications to achieve healthy living

Dr. Sanders said, "Being named a Cardiovascular Center of Excellence means Pikeville Medical Center is setting a whole new standard. To receive this accreditation, PMC's staff demonstrated we have what it takes to provide excellent care. At PMC, we don't just want to be good or the best in our region, we want to be a leader in our field, providing the very best care on a national level."

Dr. Sanders recognized those who made the designation possible. "We had every department's support. All of the staff helped out tremendously. We also had excellent support from everyone on the administrative side, especially Lorri Burgess, physician practice manager, and Cheryl Hickman, vice president and assistant to the President/CEO.

"This is a huge achievement not just for Pikeville Medical Center, but for the community and for our patients," said Burgess. "PMC's hypertension data will not only be used to treat our patients but other patients from various facilities throughout the United States."

The COSEHC conducted a site visit in April.

Hickman said, "During our on-site review, the reviewer stated that 'everyone she met with was committed to providing leading-edge cardiovascular care.' Our staff is dedicated to providing excellent care to our patients, and this is evident when we achieve designations like this one."

Established in 1992, The COSHE is a nonprofit, professional organization of physicians, scientists and health care providers working together to reduce the incidence of high blood pressure and hypertension-related cardiovascular disease outcomes (heart attacks, strokes, renal disease and heart failure) in the southeastern region of the United States.

Source: cosehc.org

Webmd.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 is pleased to welcome David Weber, MD, to its Pain Management Clinic. He joined the hospital on September 9.

Dr. Weber received his medical degree from the University of Louisville and completed his pain management fellowship at Harvard University through Massachusetts General Hospital. He is Board Certified by the American Board of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine.

He has been working in rural Kentucky for seven years and is excited to practice in Pikeville.

"PMC is a leader in eastern Kentucky," said Dr. Weber. "I have worked with several physicians from here and I am excited to service this community."

Dr. Weber specializes in interventional pain medicine, medical management of chronic pain and multi-disciplinary pain rehabilitation.

He enjoys seeing patients progress through treatment.

"I once had a patient who was paralyzed with a spinal cord injury," he said. "The patient was confined to a wheelchair and through his therapies with me, he can now walk."

Dr. Weber resides in Pikeville and is married with one daughter. When not practicing medicine, he enjoys shooting skeet and traveling.

For more information about PMC's Pain Management Clinic, call 606-218-3592.

PIKEVILLE - A Pikeville Medical Center employee earned twice her weekly wages during a nationally-syndicated radio show last week.

Torie Tenille Fowler, a public relations specialist at PMC, won the "Double Your Pay" contest hosted by Kidd Kraddick in the Morning on Friday, September 13.

The show airs on East Kentucky Broadcasting channel 107.5 every weekday morning. Contestants register online in the contest. Kidd Kraddick DJs recite the names of three contestants, and the person who calls the station first wins the prize.

Fowler, who has listened to the radio program every morning for the past several years, registered for the contest on Thursday, September 12, one day before her name was called. She had already arrived at work and did not hear her name called on Friday.

"I had already gotten to work and my phone buzzed," Fowler said. "A friend of mine in Maryland messaged me on Facebook and told me, 'I don't know if you're listening to Kidd Kraddic, but they just called your name for Double Your Pay.'"

When she registered for the contest, Fowler programmed the radio station's phone number in her cellphone. She called in as soon as she learned they called her name.

"I was really excited, and kind of shocked, because I had just registered the day before," she said. "It kind of proves to you that anyone can win. I wasn't expecting to get an extra payday."

Several people from Kentucky and other states have congratulated her.

She plans to use the money to celebrate her daughter's first birthday. Paisyn turns one year old on November 25.

"This year, we'll get to make her first birthday a little more special," Fowler said.

She's thankful to the Kidd Kraddick staff. She loves the morning talk show, which remains on air despite the death of show host David P. Cradick, known as "Kidd Kraddick," this year.

"It's a fun show to listen to. They're always joking and everybody's personalities mix very well," Fowler said.

"After Kidd died, hearing how close they actually were, it shows you that these people, even though they're celebrities and heard across the nation, they're real people, and you feel like you're a part of their broadcast every morning."

For more information about the radio show, visit http://kidnation.com.

A link to the "Double My Pay" contest registration is available on the website.

PIKEVILLE - September is National Cholesterol Awareness Month and Pikeville Medical Center's Heart and Vascular Institute urges the public to keep cholesterol levels in check.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), describes cholesterol as "a waxy, fat-like substance that your body needs."

There are two different types of cholesterol: HDL (good cholesterol) and LDL (bad cholesterol).

When one's LDL levels are too high or HDL levels are too low, he/she is considered to be at a higher risk for heart attack and stroke - the two leading causes of death in the United States.

Pikeville Medical Center Interventional Cardiologist Dr. Muhammad Ahmad said, "Cholesterol is a significant risk factor of future heart disease.

One in six Americans suffers from high cholesterol, which increases their risk of heart disease by more than 20 percent."

Unfortunately, there are no symptoms associated with unhealthy cholesterol levels, so a simple blood test or screening is needed to determine one's HDL and LDL levels.

In general, it is recommended that adults 20 years of age or older have their cholesterol levels checked every five years. Although, if someone meets the criteria listed below, cholesterol levels should be checked more often:

Total cholesterol levels 200 mg/dL or higher

HDL level is lower than 40 mg/dL

Men older 45 years of age

Women older than 50 years of age

Has other risk factors associated with heart disease/stroke such as: cigarette smoking, a body mass index level of 30 or more, poor diet, lack of exercise, high blood pressure, diabetes or a family history of heart disease.

Some lifestyle habits that may help prevent bad cholesterol include:

Eating a heart healthy diet

Completing at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity, aerobic exercise per week

Participating in muscle strengthening activities at least two days a week

Avoiding the use of tobacco products

Cooking meals low in cholesterol and saturated fat

"The initial therapy is to lose weight, exercise and watch what you eat," said Dr. Ahmad. "If these methods fail, there are a number of medications that can help individuals maintain healthy cholesterol levels."

Cholesterol levels

Total Cholesterol

Below 200 mg/dL Desirable

200-239 mg/dL Borderline high

240 mg/dL and above High

LDL Cholesterol

Below 70 mg/dL

Ideal for people at very high risk for heart disease

Below 100 mg/dL

Ideal for people at risk for heart disease

100-129 mg/dL            Near ideal

130-159 mg/dL            Borderline high

160-189 mg/dL            High

190 mg/dL            Very high

HDL Cholesterol

Below 40 mg/dL (men)

Below 50 mg/dL (women)    Poor

40-49 mg/dL (men)

50-59 mg/dL (women)    Better

60mg/dL and above        Best

Source: Mayoclinic.com

PIKEVILLE - Pikeville Medical Center is pleased to welcome Saad Sakkal, MD, to its Adult Endocrinology Physician Practice. He joined the hospital on August 21.

Dr. Sakkal received his medical degree from Damascus University Sciences and Medical College in Syria in 1972 before moving to Brooklyn, NY where he interned at Lutheran Medical Center. He completed residencies in internal medicine at Saint Joseph's Medical Center in New Jersey and Philadelphia General Hospital in Pennsylvania. He acted as Chief Resident in internal medicine at Conemaugh Valley Memorial Hospital in Jamestown, Penn.

Dr. Sakkal went on to complete his fellowship in Endocrinology and Metabolism at George Washington University Medical Center in Washington DC.

He is eager to practice at PMC and serve the large number of patients in the area with diabetes and other endocrine-related disorders.

"Smaller communities allow for greater medical growth than larger, more saturated areas," said Dr. Sakkal. "Pikeville is the place to innovate and progress and help. I can best utilize my 35 years of experience here to help promote wellness and prevention and head off this epidemic of obesity, diabetes and related complications."

Dr. Sakkal specializes in diabetes, metabolism, thyroid and adrenal gland disorders, pituitary disease, geriatrics and aging and hormonal disorders.

He also emphasizes nutrition and its role in health and wellness, pointing out that poor nutrition leads to chronic fatigue, sleep problems and mood influences.

"Throughout my professional life, I've enjoyed working in progressive medical communities to build comprehensive health care in my field," said Dr. Sakkal. "That's what I want to do here. I want to provide comprehensive care that treats the root causes of these illnesses."

Dr. Sakkal is board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine in Internal Medicine, Geriatrics and Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism.

He holds memberships in the following professional societies: American College of Physicians, American Medical Association, American Diabetes Association and the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists.

Born in Aleppo, Syria, Dr. Sakkal resides in Pikeville with his wife, Maysa. They have two children, a son and a daughter, and two grandaughters. Dr. Sakkal enjoys reading, writing, walking and nature.

For more information about PMC's Adult Endocrinology services, call 606-218-4793.

PIKEVILLE - Pikeville Medical Center's Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) urges pregnant women to recognize the benefit of waiting the full 40 weeks before giving birth to their new bundle of joy.

"Infants born just two weeks early, at 37 weeks instead of 39 weeks, have twice the mortality rate," said Dr. Todd Hambleton, PMC Neonatologist. "This means they are two times more likely to die. This doesn't even account for the increased chance of being sick or needing special care. Also, the cost in health care for having a baby at 37 weeks can be as much as 10 times greater, causing a financial hardship on the parents."

Dr. Myla Santiago, PMC Neonatologist and NICU Medical Director, added, "It is better if babies are born between 39 and 40 weeks because then their organ systems and reflexes are considered fully developed."

Some proven reasons why it is better for the baby to deliver closer to 40 weeks include:

Baby's brain, lungs and liver are still growing in size/function

At 35 weeks pregnant, the baby's brain only weighs two-thirds of what it will weigh at 40 weeks.

Babies born at 37 weeks are three times more likely to experience respiratory distress syndrome, rapid breathing, pneumonia, a need for a ventilator and respiratory failure when compared to babies born between 39 and 40 weeks.

Baby has better vision and hearing

More weight is gained, allowing baby to regulate his/her temperature and stay warm

Baby is better able to suck, swallow and stay awake long enough to eat

Medical reasons that might indicate the need for an early delivery are:

Bleeding during pregnancy

Fetal development issues

High blood pressure or preeclampsia

Gestational or pre-existing diabetes

Infection

Carrying multiples

"The baby's health and safety should always come first, and it is much more important than any scheduling issue, such as a vacation or a family member who wants to be there for the baby's birth," said Dr. Hambleton. "Delivery before 39 weeks is acceptable when the baby's or mother's health is in jeopardy, and it is better to deliver the baby early than to let the little one continue growing inside mommy's tummy."

Dr. Santiago said mothers can help ensure their baby's health by taking care of themselves during pregnancy. "It is good for expectant mothers to attend regular prenatal checkups, eat healthy and avoid alcohol, smoking and drugs during pregnancy."

Pikeville Medical Center NICU is staffed by three experienced Neonatologists and offers an around-the-clock service for newborns who require intensive nursing and medical care. For more information about neonatal services provided at PMC call 606-218-3572.

Source: health4mom.org

Health.ny.gov

Marchofdimes.com

Parents.com

Medical Leader | Bobbi Casebolt

SPECIAL GUEST: Pikeville Medical Center's housekeeping staff was recognized during Housekeeping Week with a celebration banquet featuring musical entertainment by a Michael Jackson impersonator.

PIKEVILLE - Thursday, September 12 was a special day for the housekeeping staff at Pikeville Medical Center (PMC) as they celebrated with a Michael Jackson impersonator during their yearly awards banquet.

Angie Wright, Director of Environmental Services, arranged the performance as part of the hospital's National Environmental Services and Housekeeping Week.

Celebrated September 9-13, the observance recognizes environmental services teams as essential personnel in infection control cleaning protocols, patient safety goals and customer satisfaction.

"Housekeeping Week is a time we try to show our appreciation to our housekeepers for all the hard work they do daily," Wright said. "I'm proud of them and proud to be part of this department."

The banquet, held yearly to recognize the housekeeping staff, took place at the Mark V in Pikeville. Employees were treated to a free dinner as Michael Jackson impersonator Roy Hamilton performed a mix of hits from the King of Pop, including Billy Jean and Man in the Mirror.

Jackson proved to be a big hit with employees as they sang along to old favorites and lined up for photos with the performer.

"I was so surprised by the Michael Jackson impersonator," said Deloris Miller, housekeeper at PMC. "He did a great job and was so sweet to take pictures with us like he did. The banquet was wonderful. I loved the location and loved the great turnout we had. It was a really nice night."

Awards were given for perfect attendance and Employee of the Year. Years of Service certificates were given to employees for five and 10 years of service.

Martha Thompson, employed at the hospital for 13 years, won Housekeeper of the Year. She was serenaded by Hamilton upon receiving her plaque.

"It was wonderful to win this award," said Martha Thompson. "I was really shocked. It means a lot to me. And the banquet was fun, too. I appreciated everything they did for us, especially having Michael Jackson perform."

Other award recipients included:

Perfect Attendance - Jamie Bugg, Daniel Keesee, Chezrai Kiser, Roy Pinson, Natasha Scroggins, Charito Webb, Jody Conn, Vonda Elkins, Keith Walters, Pennie Williams, Sandra Handshoe, Dedra Johnson, Dandy Thacker and Kenneth Younce.

5 Year Service Certificate - Jamie Bugg, Reva Eplin, Dedra Johnson, Delores Miller, Roy Pinson, Josephine Taylor, Dandy Thacker and Cindy Thieme.

10 Year Service Certificate - Jody Conn, Misty Crum, Earline Damron, Dorby Hopkins, Sarah Mays and Terrie Rose.

Additional goodies given out during the week included free T-shirts, doughnuts and ice cream.

Currently, there are more than 100 housekeepers employed in the Environmental Services department at PMC. Overall, they clean 819,222 square feet. When the new clinic and parking garage open, the housekeeping staff will be responsible for cleaning more than one million square feet.

Housekeeping is responsible for cleaning the hospital's main campus, the grounds and parking areas and 38 outside offices. They also clean each patient room daily as well as operating rooms between surgical cases. Once a patient is discharged, housekeeping performs terminal cleaning, which involves a thorough cleaning of his or her room from floor to ceiling. On average, they perform 18,506 discharge cleanings per year.

"Patients and families equate cleanliness with quality," said Walter E. May, President/CEO. "At Pikeville Medical Center, we take pride in ensuring that our hospital and all of our facilities are clean. Our environmental services department does a wonderful job, and our patient satisfaction scores reflect their hard work."

"The environmental services staff is essential to our success at Pikeville Medical Center," said Juanita Deskins, Chief Operating Officer. "Keeping our hospital clean has a major impact on patient experience and the quality of care delivered. I commend the environmental services department for their dedication."

Source: http://www.ihaonline.org

Matthew Brent May, son of Michelle and Brent May, born Oct. 17, weight: 8 lbs. 10 oz.

Kadence Noel Elliott, daughter of Shawna and James Elliott, born Oct. 18, weight: 7 lbs. 10 oz.

Christin Hazel Spears, daughter of Matasha Slone and Eric Spears, born Oct. 14, weight: 7 lbs. 13 oz.

Jenna Rylee Tackett, daughter of Danae and Justin Tackett, born Oct. 14, weight: 7 lbs. 11 oz.

Sadie Elizabeth Justice, daughter of Sarah and James Justice, born Oct. 15, weight: 6 lbs. 5 oz.

Mason Andrew Hatcher, son of Rebecca and David Hatcher, born Oct. 15, weight: 7 lbs. 7 oz.

Sierra La'Shae Trivette, daughter of Rebecca and Patrick Trivette, born Oct. 15, weight: 6 lbs. 6 oz.

David Greyson Anderson, son of Meaghan and David Anderson, born Oct. 15, weight: 6 lbs. 12 oz.

Mark Brycen Anderson, son of Bethanie Adkins and Chanon Anderson, born Oct. 15, weight: 5 lbs. 11 oz.

Arley Matthew Samuel Honaker, son of Brittany Goff, born Oct. 15, weight: 4 lbs. 15 oz.

Alexis Elaine Viers, daughter of Dedra and Corey Viers, born Oct. 16, weight: 6 lbs. 12 oz.

Eli Thomas Bevins, son of Allyson and Justin Bevins, born Oct. 16, weight: 5 lbs. 14 oz.

Joshua Brayden Osborne, son of Santana Sparks and Joshua Osborne, born Oct. 17, weight: 7 lbs. 9 oz.

Isaiah Grant Coleman, son of Ashley Sexton and Larry Coleman Jr., born Oct. 18, weight: 7 lbs. 10 oz.

Andilyn Avery Burnette, daughter of Kathryn and Andrew James Burnette, born Oct. 19, weight: 7 lbs. 13 oz.

Emmalin Paige Carter, daughter of Andrea and Joshua Carter, born Oct. 20, weight: 8 lbs.

PIKEVILLE - at Pikeville Medical Center (PMC) is raising awareness about stroke in observance of World Stroke Day on Oct. 29.

The effort comes as the American Heart Association and the American Stroke Association are working "together to end stroke."

A stroke occurs when a vessel in the brain ruptures or is blocked by a clot, preventing the flow of blood and oxygen to the brain. When that happens, part of the brain cannot get the blood and oxygen it needs, so brain cells die.

"World Stroke Day is a day to promote stroke awareness," said Stephanie Turner, coordinator of the PMC Primary Stroke Center. "One in six people worldwide will have a stroke in their lifetime. As a regional leader in stroke care, our goal is to make sure our communities know how to spot a stroke F.A.S.T. because time lost is brain lost."

Turner and the PMC Stroke Team work to educate people on the importance of understanding F.A.S.T., an acronym created by the American Stroke Association to teach people to act quickly when they see signs of stroke - drooping in one side of the face, weakness or numbness in one arm and/or slurred speech.

"Stroke is a brain attack," Turner said. "Stroke is an emergency and there is treatment available if you respond promptly."

The hospital's Stroke Team, a group of specially-trained physicians and clinicians care for stroke patients. Hospital officials work closely with local emergency responders, who call ahead and inform the hospital if a stroke patient is being transported by ambulance.

Stroke is the leading cause of preventable disability worldwide and the fourth leading cause of death in the U.S., the American Stroke Association reports, and 80 percent of strokes can be prevented.

Turner encourages individuals to understand the risk factors for stroke: high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, atrial fibrillation (or irregular heartbeat), coronary artery disease or a previous stroke.

"Know your personal risk factors and fight against stroke," she said. "Stroke can be beaten."

Neurologist Dr. Naveed Ahmed, the Chief of Staff at PMC, is encouraged by improvements he's seen over the past several years in stroke care.

"As a stroke specialist, I'm very proud to say that the care of stroke patients has improved in the United States," he said. "Not too long ago, stroke was the second leading cause of death in the U.S. With improved care, diagnosis and treatment of co-morbidities such as high blood pressure, diabetes mellitus and high cholesterol as well as smoking cessation, stroke is now the fourth leading cause of death."

"This improvement is also possible because of the excellent care coordinated by primary care physicians and specialists including cardiologists and neurologists," he said. "Through the Primary Stroke Center at Pikeville Medical Center, we are able to provide quality care at every level."

PMC officially earned Primary Stroke Care Center certification in 2009 from The Joint Commission, the organization responsible for evaluating and accrediting more than 19,000 health care organizations in the U.S.

For the past three years, PMC has received the Get with the Guidelines - Stroke Gold Plus Award from the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association.

For more information about World Stroke Day, visit http://worldstrokecampaign.org.

For more information about strokes, visit http://strokeassociation.org.

To learn more about the services and resources PMC provides to stroke patients and their families, call 606-218-3554.

PIKEVILLE - Pikeville Medical Center (PMC) understands the emotional stress that accompanies breast cancer and is committed to supporting those affected by the disease from the time of diagnosis, through treatment and beyond.

One impactful way in which the Pikeville Medical Leonard Lawson Cancer Center (LLCC) began providing support was through the After Breast Cancer (ABC) Support Group, organized by LLCC Oncology Coordinator Shirley Coleman more than a decade ago.

ABC meets monthly to share information and ideas and offer support.

In observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the group hits the road each October to distribute educational materials and talk with community members about the signs of breast cancer.

Breast cancer survivor and ABC member Loraine Lowe said, "Pikeville Medical Center does a great job with helping patients, and this is our way to extend that education further into the community."

ABC also provides financial assistance for wigs, prostheses and transportation to and from treatment.

Sue Smallwood, a breast cancer survivor and long-time group member, said, "Many people who are diagnosed with breast cancer are not aware of the monetary assistance we provide. Also, we do not advertise who receives the support."

Smallwood began attending meetings five years ago to gain information on different treatment options and continues to attend to receive and provide support.

"There are times we laugh and times we cry," she said. "It's a camaraderie that you only understand when you're with people who have experienced

PIKEVILLE - Bridgett Spears never imagined she would win a free mammogram or how much she needed the simple diagnostic test until she saw in Medical Leader that the After Breast Cancer (ABC) Support Group was giving one away.

Spears said, "There was a registration form in the Medical Leader for a free mammogram drawing. I filled out the form, knowing I didn't stand a chance and sent it in. A couple weeks later I found out that my name was picked."

Spears had her first mammogram at age 38. When it came back abnormal, she had an ultrasound of the breast which also yielded abnormal findings. Pikeville Medical Center General Surgeon Dr. Oon Leedhanachoke then performed a biopsy.

"It didn't take long after the surgery for Dr. Oon [Leedhanachoke]to confirm the biopsy results," said Spears.

"He told me it was breast cancer and I tuned out. I don't remember hearing anything else. It was just noise."

The choice between a lumpectomy and a mastectomy was easy for her. She wanted the cancer gone and studies show a mastectomy carries less chance of a reoccurrence.

Spears underwent a double mastectomy and began seeing Dr. Tamara Musgrave, Pikeville Medical Leonard Lawson Cancer Center Medical Oncologist as well as taking chemotherapy treatments.

Once in remission, Spears knew she wanted to be involved with the group that helped her detect her cancer. She is now an active member of the ABC Support Group and commended the members for the important role they've played in helping her through her experience.

She said, "If there is anything weighing on you, these women help you talk about it. There is a lot that you start thinking about when you've gone through cancer and actually lost a piece of your body. We share a lot of information and always have a few giggles."

Spears spoke very highly of Dr. Leedhanachoke and the Pikeville Medical Leonard Lawson Cancer Center.

"Dr. Oon [Leedhanachoke] is caring and compassionate," she said. "Dr. Musgrave and the cancer center went above and beyond to see that my every need was met. They were knowledgeable and caring. They didn't allow negativity and told me that there was no looking back, only forward."

The ABC support group offers breast cancer patients a place to share information, stories, tips and comfort one another.

Meetings are held the second Monday of each month at 6 p.m. in the Leonard Lawson Cancer Center second floor conference room.

For more information about the ABC Support Group, please call the Leonard Lawson Cancer Center at 606-218-4742.

PIKEVILLE - The prestigious American Diabetes Association's (ADA) Education Recognition Certificate was recently awarded to the Pikeville Medical Center (PMC) diabetes education program.

PMC has been distinguished by the ADA for its high-quality diabetes education program since 1995. Education recognition status is awarded by the ADA every four years.

According to the ADA, programs that achieve recognition status have a staff of knowledgeable health professionals who can provide participants with comprehensive information about diabetes management.

"ADA recognition assures that the patient receives diabetes education that meets national standards assuring quality not found in most other diabetes educational programs," said Mavis Lowe, APRN, ANP-BC, MSN, BC-ADM, CDE - PMC Diabetes Education/Endocrinology. "ADA recognition also addresses mechanisms of ongoing support as patients live with diabetes day to day."

PMC's diabetes program offers weekly education courses to help patients learn all aspects of diabetes self-management.

Some of the topics include lifestyle changes, possible complications from diabetes, nutrition, monitoring and improving blood glucose levels, and the effects of exercise and medication.

To register for classes, patients must have a written referral from a physician.

Source: American Diabetes Association

Medical Leader | SUBMITTED PHOTO

FOR A GOOD CAUSE: Pikeville Medical Center employees Daniel Napier, John Blackburn II and Brian Caudill are ready to get their game on to help the Children's Miracle Network. The three plan on playing video games continuously for 25 hours this weekend.

PIKEVILLE - Pikeville Medical Center employees Daniel Napier, Brian Caudill and John Blackburn II are once more doing their part to help out the Children's Miracle Network Hospitals.

The trio will be hosting a 24-hour, plus-1 gaming session to aid children at the hospitals with severe illnesses.

"A couple of years back I shaved my head," Napier said. "This time around I've promised to get a tattoo."

"Team Pike" as they are known this year will play continuously beginning at 8 a.m. on November 2. That's the same night Daylight Saving Time ends.

"We'll be playing an hour longer this time," said Napier, a former U.S. Navy Medic.

Napier has promise to get the tattoo if his team is able to raise $1,500 this year. Just last week the team had already surpassed more than $800 in donations.

The trio is part of Extra Life, a nationwide fundraising organization.

Donations raised this year, like in the past, will be used at UK Healthcare's Kentucky Children's Hospital in Lexington.

"One-hundred percent of the donations will help the hospital," Napier said.

Napier said his life has been blessed, but is quick to point out it's not always that way for many families through the region.

"I have several friends who have not been blessed in the way I have with a healthy boy," Napier said.

Napier, Caudill and Blackburn encourage local residents to contribute to the cause if possible.

"We realize that many families around us are suffering financially right now, but if you are able to contribute it will go to a great cause.

If you wish to donate to the group before this weekend's event, please visit extra-life.org and type in Daniel Napier, John Blackburn or Brian Caudill in the "Find a Player" link on the top right corner of the webpage.

Since 2008, Extra Life players have raised more than $4 million, and participants hope to exceed that goal on Nov. 2.

"I will get the tattoo at Southern Steele, a Christian shop," Napier said. "I could never see myself with a tattoo but to be able to help out such a great cause is the reason for my sacrifice."

To donate, visit http://extralife.org and type in "Daniel Napier,""John Blackburn" or "Brian Caudill" in the "Find a Player" link on the top, right corner of the webpage.

Mattaya Grace Bucci, daughter of Ashley and Donald Bucci, born Oct. 21, weight: 6 lbs. 15 oz.

Tristan Orion Cunningham, son of Rhonda Fleming and Christopher Cunningham, born Oct. 22, weight: 8 lbs. 5 oz.

Sarah LaShae' Robinson, daughter of Kristy Townes and Gordon Robinson, born Oct. 23, weight: 6 lbs. 9 oz.

Scarlett Victoria Rose, daughter of Tranvilla Carr and Joseph Rose, born Oct. 23, weight: 7 lbs. 8 oz.

Charles Michael Justice III, son of Cindy and Charles Justice II, born Oct. 24, weight: 7 lbs. 8 oz.

Zaidyn Timothy Taylor, son of Cassandra and Timmy Taylor, born Oct. 24, weight: 8 lbs.

Gage Nolan Ferguson, son of Keisha and Derek Ferguson, born Oct. 24, weight: 11 lbs. 4 oz.

Nyjah Gage Gonzales, son of Elizebeth Hitchcock, born Oct. 24, weight: 6 lbs. 3 oz.

Jaxon Alexander Mock, son of Kayla and Joshua Mock, born Oct. 25, weight: 7 lbs. 8 oz.

Gavin James Pinkerton, son of Kayla and David Pinkerton, born Oct. 25, weight: 9 lbs. 5 oz.

Maudie Church, daughter of Robin and Bennie Church, born Oct. 25, weight: 7 lbs. 1 oz.

Victoria Lynn Wheeler, daughter of Julie and Steven Wheeler, born Oct. 25, weight: 6 lbs. 10 oz.

During my career as a speech-language pathologist, I have worked in numerous rehabilitation, acute care, outpatient and home health settings. My current position as a speech pathologist at PMC's Inpatient Physical Rehabilitation (IPR) gives me the opportunity to combine all of these facets into one.

I love working with people and it gives me the greatest joy to help someone regain the ability to swallow, assist someone in renewing their communication skills, or aid someone in recovering the cognitive skills he or she needs to return to work after treatment.

Previously, patients and their families traveled long distances to find this level of rehabilitation. Now patients and families can find the best possible physical, occupational, and speech-language therapies near home. At PMC IPR we encourage families to stay with loved ones and become hands-on from admit to discharge home. We are an all inclusive team with one goal in mind - to help patients return home and be the best they can be!

Camilla Damron

I love my job as an occupational therapist because I play an important role in recovery of our patients. While assisting people in regaining their independence I get a chance to hear their story and learn from their situation. My patients are important, and I grow as a therapist and person with each new experience. I love seeing the progress each patient makes and the smile on their face when they are able to do something they thought they would never do again.

Rehab week is an important time of year for us. It spotlights the professions that work as a team to provide quality rehabilitation to our patients. This is important to our community and hospital because so many people are not aware of the programs and opportunities available to them that will assist with recovery. We want everyone to know what services we offer and how rehab can help no matter the situation. Whether you have had a stroke or a fall, our rehabilitation facilities have something to offer.

Devon Akers, OTR/L

I love being a nurse on the physical rehab unit. It is the most rewarding job I have ever had. This job allows me the opportunity to work with wonderful patients and provide care for them as they reach their goals and return home to their family and friends. Knowing I have helped someone is a rewarding experience. Rehab week is a celebration of the patients' and staff's hard work. Through this event, we are provided a chance to visit with past patients and their families to see how they have continued to progress. It is a chance for us to see what a difference we make in our patients' lives.

Judy Collis

I believe that rehab week is important because we come together and celebrate our profession and our patients. We get to celebrate all the miracles and true work and dedication our patients have put forth to become independent again. As therapists, we see so many patients come to us with a variety of diagnoses and we are here to help them regain the life they were used to before their injury or illness. Nothing makes my job more rewarding then to help someone take their first steps again after a long illness in which they thought they would never recover. The smile on their face is my reward. Each patient I treat holds a special place in my heart and I laugh and cry with them each time they relearn skills that we so often take for granted until they are taken away from us.

Tracey Tipton, PT

PIKEVILLE - Pikeville Medical Center (PMC) welcomes Vascular Surgeon Dr. Bashar Z. Ghosheh to the Heart and Vascular Institute. He joins Dr. Dennis Havens, Dr. John H. Arnold and Dr. Raed Alnajjar in the Pikeville office.

Dr. Ghosheh received his Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery from the University of Cairo School of Medicine in Cairo, Egypt. He completed his General Surgery residency at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson and his Vascular Surgery fellowship at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston. He is certified by the American Board of Surgery.

Dr. Ghosheh specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of carotid artery disease, aneurysm repair, peripheral vascular disease, venous disease and deep venous thrombosis.

His decision to join PMC was in large part based on the work environment, supportive leadership and progressiveness found at PMC.

Always striving to go the extra mile for his patients, Dr. Ghosheh has centered his career around offering quality, compassionate care. He finds his area of specialty to be especially gratifying.

He said, "Seeing my patients in the clinic after their surgery and knowing I was able to save their lives after threatening illnesses defines the most rewarding moments in my career."

Dr. Ghosheh is married to medical lab technician Reem Saeedi and has one son, Kareem Bashar Ghosheh, 7. In his spare time, he enjoys sailing, hiking and spending time with his family.

His office is located at 911 Bypass Road, May Tower 1 West , Pikeville, Ky. For more information about PMC's Heart and Vascular Institute, call 606-218-4530.

PIKEVILLE - During American Diabetes Month, Pikeville Medical Center (PMC) encourages everyone to keep his or her blood glucose (sugar) levels in check.

To date, nearly 26 million Americans have diabetes and 79 million Americans have pre-diabetes, placing them at a higher risk for developing type 2 diabetes.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), diabetes is defined as "the condition in which the body does not properly process food for use as energy."

There are two types of diabetes: type 1, previously known as juvenile-onset or insulin dependent diabetes, cannot be prevented. Type 2, also known as adult-onset diabetes, can be prevented and accounts for 90 to 95 percent of all diabetes diagnosis.

Someone with pre-diabetes or diabetes may not experience any symptoms at all, but if signs are present they may include:

Frequent urination

Excessive thirst

Unexplained weight loss

Extreme hunger

Sudden vision changes

Tingling or numbness of the hands or feet

Feeling very tired a lot of the time

Very dry skin

Slow healing soars

More infections than usual

Diabetics are also at a higher risk for heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, blindness, limb amputation, nerve damage and slowed digestion.

Some specific factors that may increase one's risk of developing type 2 diabetes are:

Being overweight

Storing fat primarily in the abdomen

Inactivity

Having a parent or sibling with diabetes

Being African American, Hispanic, American Indian or Asian-American

Being over 45 years of age

Having been diagnosed with gestational diabetes during pregnancy

Research shows that eating a healthy diet and participating in at least 150 minutes of physical activity per day can help prevent this life-altering disease.

Pikeville Medical Center offers specialized treatment for adult and juvenile diabetes. Dr. Arlette Soros, pediatric Endocrinologist and Dr. Saad Sakkal, adult Endocrinologists are currently accepting new patients. To make an appointment or for more information about diabetic treatments at PMC, please contact Dr. Soros or Dr. Sakkal at 606-218-6225 or 606-218-4793.

Source: The American Diabetes Association

webmd.com

cdc.gov

PIKEVILLE - November is Diabetic Eye Disease Month and Pikeville Medical Center's Retinal Ophthalmologist Dr. Jody Brown encourages diabetics to pay close attention to their eyes.

According to the National Eye Institute, "diabetic eye disease refers to a group of problems diabetics may develop as a complication to the disease."

These problems include: diabetic retinopathy, cataract and glaucoma. All of these should be taken seriously and can lead to severe vision loss or blindness.

Of these problems, diabetic retinopathy is the most common with 7.7 million people over the age of 40 diagnosed with this disease. It is also the leading cause of blindness among American adults.

Diabetic Retinopathy is when diabetes changes and damages the tiny blood vessels inside one's retina.

Dr. Brown shared some shocking information, "25 percent of people with type 1 diabetes will have diabetic retinopathy within five years of being diagnosed. This number increases to 60 percent after 10 years and 80 percent after 15 years. At the same time, 40 percent of people with type 2 diabetes who take insulin will be diagnosed with retinopathy during the first five years, and 24 percent of those taking oral medicine for diabetes will be affected by this disease."

Vision loss caused by diabetic retinopathy can be prevented through early detection and timely treatment. Dr. Brown stated, "In a lot of situations today, blindness is preventable. It is important for diabetics to attend regular eye exams and keep their blood sugar in check."

"Often times I can see diabetic damage in one's eyes through an exam before he or she begins to have symptoms," Dr. Brown continued. "Type 1 diabetics should be examined five years after onset of the disease and then annually if no retinopathy is seen," said Dr. Brown. "Type 2 diabetics need to be examined soon after being diagnosed and then annually if no retinopathy is detected. Pregnant diabetics or pregnant women diagnosed with gestational diabetes need to be examined during each trimester and then three to six months after delivery."

Other things diabetics can do to keep their health in check and possibly prevent or decrease the severity of eye disease include:

Take all medications as prescribed

Maintain a healthy weight

Stay physically active

Keep blood pressure and cholesterol levels in check

Do not smoke

Dr. Brown is currently taking new patients. For more information about diabetic eye disease and treatment call Pikeville Medical Center's Retinal Ophthalmology Department at 606-432-5986.

Dr. Brown's office is located in suite 305 of the Grace Call Building at 1098 South Mayo Trail, Pikeville. Regular office hours are Monday through Friday 8 am to 4:30 pm.

Source: nei.nih.gov

Diabetes.org

Aoa.org

Giving family hope: Couple praises PMC surgeon

PMC honored again: Hospital named Cardiovascular Center of excellence

Pikeville Medical Center welcomes Dr. Hill

PMC welcomes Dr. David Weber

PMC employee wins national contest - Fowler takes home 'Double Your Pay'

PMC reminds patients to keep cholesterol levels in check

Pikeville Medical Center welcomes Dr. Sakkal

NICU urges women to 'go the full 40'

"Can't beat it!" PMC Celebrates Housekeeping Week

Stork Report

World Stroke Awareness Day Oct. 29

Life after breast cancer: Reaching out to help breast cancer patients

Chance of a lifetime

Diabetes education program honored: PMC once again merits ADA recognition

Gamers to host 25-hour gaming frenzy to raise funds for Children's Miracle Network

Stork Report

Rehab workers talk about their roles

PMC welcomes Ghosheh to Heart and Vascular team

Are you at risk for diabetes?

Keeping an 'eye' on your health