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FEELBetter

FarewellFriend

A tribute to Thomas M. Routh

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WarriorWomenFour women share

their personal stories of fighting cancer.

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FindingHerVoice

A patient story.

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W I N T E R 2 0 1 8

with

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{ }FAREWELLF R I E N D

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The Tom and Chris Routh family

irelands Regional Health System lost a specialfriend, beloved leader and tireless advocate forthe health of our community on Wednesday,

October 3, 2018 with the sudden passing of Thomas M.Routh, Chairman of the Board of Directors. Tom was

a humble, generous and kind gentleman whosefriendship and leadership will be profoundly missedby the entire Firelands Regional Health System family.Our heartfelt and deepest condolences go out to hiswife, Chris, and their children and their grandchildren.

Everyone who knew Tom was aware that nothing gave Tom Routh greater pleasure in life than

spending time with his family.Tom joined the Firelands Regional

Health System board as a Director inMay of 1991. During his 27 years ofcommunity service at Firelands, Tomwas Chair and Vice Chair of the Boardof Directors, Chair and Vice Chair ofThe Foundation for Firelands Board ofDirectors, a member of the Executive

F Committee, Compensation Committee, Finance Committee,Investment/Risk Management Committee, Facilities & Planning Committee, DevelopmentCommittee, and Stein/Firelands Education Committee.

“Firelands’ success as a strong, quality health careprovider reflects so much of Tom’s 27 years of leadershipand dedication in many areas of our Board functions,”said John O. Bacon, Vice-Chair, Firelands Regional HealthSystem. “His leadership guided our team to faithfullyserve our patients and their families, providing care whenthey needed it most. Our Board and the entire Firelandsfamily mourn the passing of our dedicated leader, colleague and friend.”

Jeremy Normington-Slay, President and CEO of FirelandsRegional Medical Center shared, “Tom and his wife Chris were significant in the decision that I and my wife,Abigail, made to relocate our family to Sandusky and tocome to Firelands. Their kindness, compassion, and faithwere unparalleled, and helped us come to know what awonderful organization and community we were joining. I will forever be grateful for Tom and his leadership.”

A tribute to Thomas M.Routh



3

Tom and his wife, Chris.

Dr. Scott Campbell, Co-Chief of the Medical Staff andDirector of Firelands Regional Health System remarked,

“Tom was always approachable and a pleasure to just sitdown with and shoot the bull. He had a great sense ofhumor and was very kind. He truly had our hospital’s bestinterest at heart. He will be missed by many...we havelost a good man.”

Dan Moncher, Executive Vice President and CFO of Firelands commented, “Tom was a thoughtful leader, andwhen he spoke at any of our Committee or Board meetings,he was listened to and greatly respected for his views andopinions. Tom’s ability to listen and his leadership traitswere observed by all, and he was rewarded with the opportunity to lead our Board; a position he acceptedwith dignity and pride. His leadership, vision and knowledge will be forever missed.”

Bill Springer, Chair, The Foundation for Firelands andformer Chair, Firelands Regional Health System reflected,

“Tom was the epitome of a model board member andleader. Tom was passionate about Firelands, and the roleof Firelands Regional Health System in the health and vitality of our community. He always had the best interests of Firelands in his leadership and in his heart.”

In addition to his gifts of time, service and leadershipthroughout the years, Tom and his wife, Chris were inducted into the Foundation for Firelands Legacy Society as Gold Level members. Alice Springer, Director of Development at The Foundation for Firelands shared,

“Tom was a generous, kind man with a heart as big as hewas. He had a great wit, and his humor was celebrated byall who knew him. In 2012, we hosted a fundraising eventin an airplane hangar at Griffing Airport named Hearts inFlight Jubilee. This black-tie event was held close toValentine’s Day and recognized area aviators. Tom wasone of those aviators, and his story was captivating. He shared that he started flying lessons on a lark – in hiswords, he was just driving by Griffing Airport, and decidedto follow-through on his curiosity to fly. He took lessons,and after he received his private license, he added an instrument rating to it, giving Tom the privilege to fly inmeteorologically adverse conditions. When he was takinglessons, his mother presented him with his father’s flightlog book, and until that day, Tom never knew that his father was a pilot.

“Tom was alwaysapproachable and a pleasure to just sit down with and shoot the bull. He had a greatsense of humor and was very kind. He truly had our hospital’s best interest at heart. He will be missed by many...we have lost a good man.”

– Dr. Scott Campbell



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Pilot Tom Routh with his Cessna 210 airplane.

Tom said this book was very meaningful to him, as his father had passed away in 1966. Tom stated that he enjoyed the challenge of flying as a single engine instrument rated pilot because in order to do this type ofcomplex flying, one must be current, proficient and safe.He felt fortunate to have a Cessna 210 airplane that had aturbo-charged engine and six seats so that he and Chris(and other family members) could travel to a family vacation spot in Tennessee and to visit his daughter, who at that time lived in Chicago.”

Twenty-seven aviators were recognized that evening,and naturally, the best quote of the night came from TomRouth. Tom shared, “There are old pilots, and bold pilots,but there are no old, bold pilots.”

True to his generous nature, Tom also served for eight years on the Norwalk Board of Education, served as President of the Board for the Boy Scouts Heart of Ohio Council, and served on the board of A.C.T. (Answeringthe Call Together). Tom was the Chief Executive Officer andPresident of J.H. Routh Packing Company in Sandusky.

Saying goodbye to a friend is always difficult. Tom was admired and respected by all of his colleagues forhis unceasing willingness to serve and assist others.Tom Routh will be missed and his many contributions to Firelands Regional Health System will never be forgotten.

Tom enjoying a tea party with his youngest granddaughter. From left, Tom’s son, Adam; nephew, David; brother,Jack; and Tom celebrate the OSU Buckeyes’ 2015

National Championship victory at the game.

“There are

old pilots, and

bold pilots, but

there are no

old, bold pilots.”


Drug Free Clubs of America EHOVE Career Center and Firelands Regional MedicalCenter have teamed up to help promote teen drug prevention through Drug Free Clubs of America.

Drug Free Clubs of America is a student-led drug prevention program where students voluntarily partici-pate and take a confidential drug test at school to join.Throughout the school year, participating students arerandomly selected to test up to five additional times. Test results are shared with the parents, not the school. In addition, various community businesses have also gotten involved by offering discounts and rewards to students who show their Drug Free Program of America card.

Firelands Corporate Health Center staff were on handin September for EHOVE’s initial drug testing day and participation event.

“Firelands wanted to offer services to assist in conductingthe testing of students, with the parent’s blessing, to helpkick off the program,” said Sandie Beal, director of FirelandsCorporate Health Center. “Students will have a reason tosay ‘no’ (to drug use) while encouraging fellow students toparticipate and be eligible for the rewards they can earn.”

As of October, Firelands Corporate Health had conducted361 drug tests and were gearing up for more testing in November with 25–50 more participants.

Matt Ehrhardt, assistant director at EHOVE, implementedand coordinated the program at his facility. His hope is forother schools to hop on board with the idea. In additionto EHOVE, Norwalk City Schools and St. Paul CatholicSchool in Norwalk are the only two area schools who are participating.

“This creates a systemic change,” said Matt. “We alwayssay ‘what can we do?’ and we spend a lot of time talkingbut not taking any action. This also creates positive peerpressure. Kids are randomly tested each month and itgives them an out if someone is pressuring them to dosomething.”

Tristian Rupp, 18, of Bellevue, said she wanted to participate in the program because she felt it would lookgood on job and college applications.

Her friend, Jocelyn Morin, 17, also of Bellevue, echoedher sentiments, adding, “Drug free is the way to be, so don’t mess up your life.”

Milan resident Jacobee Kessler, 18, said he joined because of his friends.

“All my friends were participating in the program, so I thought it was a good idea,” he said. “I’m drug freeand I thought it would also look good on a resume.”

Tony Gibbs, Erie County Sheriff’s Deputy and EHOVEschool resource officer, said programs like this are needed.

“I feel like drugs and alcohol limit the potential in all age groups,” he said. “Any way we can get the youth to commit to be drug free will greatly enhance their opportunity to be productive members of society.”

For more information on Drug Free Clubs of America, visit DrugFreeClubs.com.

A student-led program gives kids a reason to say “no” to drugs.

“Kids are voluntarily

and randomlytested eachmonth and itgives them anout if someoneis pressuringthem to dosomething.”

–Matt EhrhardtAssistant Director

EHOVE

{ }B E I N T H EK N O W

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Tristian Rupp and Jocelyn Morin Jacobee Kessler


{ }A PATIENTS T O R Y

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Sitting across the table from Linda, you wouldn’tknow that she has Parkinson’s disease. You mightnotice that her voice is a little soft, but that couldeasily be perceived as her normal voice-range. Onher birthday, Linda shared her personal story ofbeing diagnosed with Parkinson’s, and her journeyto regain her voice.

“I was diagnosed with Parkinson's about two yearsago. I didn’t have the typical tremors that peopleusually think of. For me, my speech got very slowand quiet,” said Linda, a retired Firelands’ nurse and previous director of the Center for Women &Newborns at Firelands Regional Medical Center.

“Then, my movements got very stiff and slow,”she continued. “My handwriting got really small. I also started to notice my upper body was weakwhen I would try to open doors, and then not beingable to do certain exercises that I used to do easily.My husband said I was in slow-motion, we were on vacation then, and I said ‘well it’s just becausewe’re on vacation’.”

Linda and her husband have been married for36 years. They are both local to the area. Linda isfrom Clyde, and her husband is from Huron. Theydecided to move to Perkins to start a family–since it was in the middle of their respective hometowns.There, they have raised 4 children, 2 girls and 2 boys.

It was in November of 2016 that Linda was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease after continuingto have unusual symptoms.

“I had a frozen shoulder and had some treatments.But after that got better, my handwriting still didn’timprove. So we knew there was something reallywrong. Also, my speech continued getting slower,and I started having balance issues,” said Linda.

After a visit to the ER, prompted by more, frequentsymptoms, the doctor sent her to a specialist whoeventually diagnosed her with Parkinson’s. Theysuggested she start physical and speech therapyright away.

“I started in therapy right away. Speech therapy to help me get my speech back up to speed, andlouder. And physical therapy to work on my balance.I also had medication prescribed, which helps withall those too. However, it didn't really help withthe volume of my voice, that’s the hardest thing. Especially since I am naturally a quiet talker.”

The speech therapy that Linda is participating in is a two-part program that helps individuals with Parkinson’s regain and maintain effective communication. The programs are called,SPEAK OUT!® followed by The LOUD Crowd®.

SPEAK OUT!® places emphasis on speaking with intent and converting speech from an automaticfunction to an intentional act. Together, patients and

finding voiceher

“I didn’t have the typical tremors thatpeople usually think of.

For me, my speech got very slow and

quiet.”

Linda’s Story



7

their speech-language pathologist work through a series of speech, voice, and cognitive exercises outlined in a SPEAK OUT!® Workbook. Linda worksclosely with Cara Long, M.A. CCC-SLP, speech-languagepathologist at Firelands Regional Medical Center.

“I am truly passionate about helping individualsenhance their speech, language, and swallowingabilities. Being able to provide the SPEAK OUT!® and LOUD Crowd® program has allowed me to helpindividuals with Parkinson’s Disease improve andmaintain their speech and swallowing for long-termresults. Working with people like Linda, who are motivated and enthusiastic about improving theirhealth, has been truly rewarding and makes megrateful to be in the field that I am in. The people are wonderful, the program is effective, and most of all, it is FUN!” Cara explained.

When asked what her favorite part about theclasses were, Linda said “working with Cara, she isfun.” She also said that the results were of course abig motivator for her. And that she also enjoyed theinteraction with the other members in the group.

“There are a couple other people in the group,so that’s nice. It kind of forces you to really focus on what you’re doing–you don’t want to be the one getting scolded for being quiet,” Linda joked.

Participation in The LOUD Crowd,® along with

daily home practice and six-month re-evaluations,has been shown to help patients maintain theircommunication skills throughout the progression of Parkinson’s.

For now, Linda is optimistic and positive about thefuture. She has plans to travel with her husband thisyear in their new camper to visit their children, wholive out-of-state. She also plans to continue going tothe weekly classes, and keeping up with her physicaltherapy. She agrees that this program has absolutelygiven her some quality of life back.

“Oh yes, it has definitely,” Linda explained. “A lot ofpeople that don’t know me, don’t notice that I haveParkinson’s. When I go out to eat now, the waitersdon’t ask me to repeat myself, I was having a lot ofthat before.”

When asked how this disease has changed her life,she simply said “I don’t sweat the small stuff now.”

Firelands Regional Medical Center received agrant for the SPEAK OUT!® and The LOUD Crowd®through the Parkinson’s Voice Project SPEAK OUT!®and The LOUD Crowd® Grant Program. This program’smain purpose is to increase accessibility of theseprograms to patients and families throughout the United States.

For more information on speech therapy please visit firelands.com/speech.

What is Parkinson’s Disease?Parkinson’s disease is a type of movement disorder that can affectthe ability to performcommon, daily activities.It is characterized by its most common of motorsymptoms—tremors (a form of rhythmic shaking), stiffness orrigidity of the muscles,and slowness of movement —but alsomanifests in non-motorsymptoms includingsleep problems, constipation, anxiety, depression, and fatigue, among others.

–The American Parkinson Disease Association

Linda has made great progress working with her speech therapist Cara Long.



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If you are a parent or interact with young children, you know the struggle it can be toget them to eat. As a family, we want to beable to sit at the table, have a meal, andenjoy the foods we cook on a daily basis. Exploring and trying new foods is part of thisritual as well. However, for some children,they fixate on a limited number of foods fromchicken nuggets to macaroni and cheese.If a child has a limited number of foods, difficulty coping with meal times, or has a difficulty with food volume intake, these aresigns of a picky eater or problem feeder.

Parents and caregivers of younger childrenmay assume that being a picky eater is just a phase. However, in some cases, it may

warrant a feeding and sensory evaluation by an occupational therapist based on thechild’s symptoms, weight, and growth.

Take Dylan for example, Dylan is a 13-year-old who is a problem eater with a diagnosisof Autism.

Around the age of two, Dylan’s parents Jeff and Susan noticed their son had strongand negative reactions and interactions with some foods.

“He would only eat 5–6 certain food items,but only if they were pureed. He did this untilhe was about six years old,” explained Dylan’s parents.

As Dylan got older, he started to eat moresolid foods but with a limited variety. Hewould eat the same foods over and overagain until he no longer wanted to eat his

typical foods. Dylan’s food variety was so limited that he not only developed behaviorsto resist his typical foods but trying newfoods was a challenge as well. This type ofbehavior is called “food jagging”. His parentswere at a loss.

When Dylan first arrived at Firelands Regional Medical Center’s Children’s S.P.O.T.he met with Allison Blakeley, MS, OTR/L.

“Dylan came to me fixated on fries, hotdogs,yogurt, and Cheetos. He was also on a protein shake supplement, which he startedto inconsistently food jag on as well. In theprocess of working with Dylan, it was evidenthe had difficulty coping with certain sensoryinput from his surroundings. He also displayedissues with behavior that were hindering hisability to explore different foods and eating

DAY...MONDAY...TUESDAY...WEDNESDAY...THURJust picky?

Dylan’s Story



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Around the age of two, Dylan’s parents noticed that their son had strong and negative reactions

and interactions with some foods.

URSDAY...FRIDAY...SATURDAY...SUNDAY...MON

iDid you know?

Signs of a Picky Eater:� Poor food variety

(30 or more)� Burns out on

preferred foods but will try them again

� Will attempt to try new foods with use of touch & taste

� Will eat with the family but eats differentfoods sometimes

Signs of a Problem Eater:� Poor food variety

(20 or less)� Burns out on

preferred foods and not attempted again

� Will tantrum or melt down with new foods

� Refuses particular group of food

� Will always eat different foods than the family

habits. We also discussed ways to redirectfeeding habits and environmental set up tocreate proper ‘conditioned cues’ that wouldprepare Dylan for meal times,” said Allison.

After much consideration and discussion,they decided the therapeutic approach bestsuited for Dylan’s needs was the SequentialOral Sensory Approach (SOS) developed by Dr. Kay Toomey, PhD. Implementation of thisapproach is conducted by an occupational orspeech therapist who has undergone specialtraining. The approach focuses on sensoryand behavioral aspects of how the child is responding to their environment in regards tohome set up, food properties, and how theyreact and interact with their environment.The program encourages the use of lookingat what colors, shapes, textures, and flavorsof food the child is consuming. Based onwhat the child is comfortable with, foodchaining (linking foods from one to the nextwith consideration of color, shape, and texture) is conducted as they explore and trynew foods that entail at least some form ofprotein, vegetable, fruit, and carbohydrate.The overall philosophy through the conceptof trying new foods is, food range will lead to volume through the exploration of the sensory properties of food in general.

After many months of observing Dylan eating and brainstorming with his motherpresent during treatment sessions, Dylanbegan to slowly explore a variety of differenttypes of foods with the use of food chainingtechniques. In addition, Allison started toredirect feeding habits and environmentalset-up to create proper “conditioned cues”that would prepare Dylan for meal times.

After a year and a half of receiving therapyat the Children’s S.P.O.T., the variety andquantity of food he eats now has improvedten-fold.

“At this time, Dylan’s food list has grown to eating lasagna, fish, peas, green beans, asparagus, pears, peaches, bananas, strawber-ries, grapes etc. The list goes on! Mom, Dad, andDylan are also able to eat out at a restaurants as well. Prior to his therapy, eating out at arestaurant was extremely limited for the family,”Allison shared.

Dylan happily explained this his new favoritefoods are lasagna, broccoli and green beans.When asked what his favorite part about comingto the classes were he said eating in the kitchenand playing basketball with his therapists.

The future for Dylan looks promising. Hewill continue to go to therapy once a week, andhe will slowly progress into more sustainable

practices like learning to prepare meals for himself.

“We will first begin working on how to usethe microwave, and how to set and clear thekitchen table. Further down the road we willlook to teach him how to cook on the stoveand the oven so he can be more independent.Getting him to be able to make age appropriatemeals would be a great future goal. He willeventually graduate from this program oncehe can sustain the food range and volumethat he is at now, on his own.” Explained Allison.


Make yourself a priority, ladies.In the summer of 2016, Ann Will of Sandusky found a lump inher breast. But the busy 41-year-old mom of two dismissed itas a cyst. She had even received her mammogram remindercard from Firelands Center for Breast Care, but she didn’thave time to deal with a pesky cyst – she and her family had a lot going on that summer. And in true mom fashion,she pushed it to the back burner to take care of her family.

But then one day six months later she noticed the lumpwas protruding out of her skin.

Alarmed, she contacted her OBGYN, Dr. Richard Visci, whoordered a mammogram at Firelands Center for Breast Care.

“The day of the mammogram, I had an inkling (somethingwas wrong),” said Ann, even though she had no family history of breast cancer. The mammogram did, in fact, show something.

She scheduled a biopsy with General Surgeon Dr. FredericItzkowitz and in January 2017 she sat across from himas he delivered the words no woman wants to hear: You have breast cancer...

A story of hope, faith, and family.There are so many powerful stories out there from warriorwoman who are battling, or have defeated, breast cancer. No onestory is more important than the other, as they are all unique andimportant in their own right. These stories allow family, friends,and strangers to understand a small fraction of what it is like tolive with a disease, like cancer.

One story of hope, faith, and family is from Tonya Alexander. On a day, immediately following one of her chemo treatments at University Hospitals Seidman Cancer Center at Firelands Regional Medical Center, Tonya talked openly about the day she found out, how she felt, and how the diagnosis has changedher life. More importantly, she shared how her faith in God, and the support of her family and friends, has kept her movingforward and staying positive about the future.

She joked about having “chemo brain” during the interview,a very real side-effect of the drug, and apologized as shecouldn’t think of anything else to say. However, a couple dayslater she delivered a hand-written note that contained her feelings and emotions, set in ink, when she had more time to gather her thoughts...

we are warrior womenAnn WillTonya Alexander

ONCE A MONTH2–3 DAYS

AFTER PERIODS

EXAMINE BREAST AND ARMPIT WITH

RAISED ARM

USE FINGERTIPSWITH MASSAGE OIL OR SHOWER GEL

UP & DOWN

HOW TO DO A BREAST SELF EXAM


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Breast cancer can happen at any age.Imagine cradling your one-year-old baby in your arms after having been diagnosed with breast cancer. Thoughts racethrough your mind, not just about the journey ahead of yourself,but for your new baby – “What if something happens to me?Will she have to grow up without a mother?”. You try to stay positive but those questions stay in the back of your mind.

Breast cancer doesn’t care if you’re a mother, sister, wife ordaughter. And in 2012, Ashley Williams discovered that it doesn’tcare if you’re outside of the designated breast cancer screeningage. Ashley was only 26 when she discovered an irregular lumpin her left breast during a self-examination.

“I wrote it off as having a clogged milk duct since I breastfedmy daughter,” said Ashley of Huron. “I knew it had been about 9 months since I stopped breastfeeding, so I was just going tohave my OBGYN check it out at my yearly exam.”

Ashley’s doctor checked the lump at her exam and sent her foran ultrasound. When the images came back, the technician toldher the doctor would have to discuss what they found with her.

“I saw a small, shadowy, kind of like a football-shaped objecton the screen and I knew in my gut what it was...”

Jill felt something suspicious.As a registered nurse, her feeling began in 2013 when there was something suspicious happening with her right breast. To monitor the situation, she had to have a mammogram every six months for two years and at one point even had an MRI. In the second year, she had a screening mammogramand it picked up a mass.

“I’m a realist,” the Perkins Township resident said. “I felt like they were going to find something at some point.”

On February 19, 2015 she had a breast ultrasound andthoughts of her impending diagnosis flooded her mind.

“You are in a silent room and you just hear some music…things go through your head,” Jill said, adding that she also had a biopsy.

Near the end of February 2015, Jill’s official diagnosis came in – Stage 2 breast cancer.

“However, I count my diagnosis date as February 19 becauseI just knew,” she said. The date is also significant to Jill and herfamily as her brother unexpectedly passed away one year priorto the date at the young age of 48. Jill was 47 when she found out she had breast cancer...

Ashley Williams Jill Wagner

WEDGES CIRCLES EXAMINE BREASTS IN MIRROR FOR LUMPS OR SKIN DIMPLING...

A CHANGE IN SKIN COLOR OR TEXTURE...

OR NIPPLE DEFORMATION,COLOR CHANGE OR LEAKS

OF ANY FLUID


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READ thE RESt oF thE StoRiES oF thESE WARRioR WomEn At: FiRElAnDS.Com/WARRioR


or the last two years, Lydia Rapson,MOR, OTR/L, occupational therapist

at Firelands Regional Medical Center’s Children’s S.P.O.T., has been on a mission in the community to educate students, teachers and parents on thehealth risks that surround the improperuse and wearing of backpacks.

Using her profession and real-life experiences, she set out on Wednesday,September 26 (which was NationalSchool Backpack Awareness Day) toWoodlands Intermediate School in Huron, to talk to Mrs. Hamrock’s 6thgrade class. Her goal was to make them aware of the problems that canoccur when they wear a backpack, especially a heavy one, improperly.

Along with her discussion and educationon backpack safety and the injuries thatcan occur, Lydia provided the studentswith some educational material to takehome to their parents and siblings. Oneof the items was a sheet that simply

stated “my bags weighs,” with a blankline below it to write in a number. Thechildren were excited to see who had the heaviest bag as Lydia went aroundthe classroom with her luggage scale,weighing each one–it became a fun contest for them. However, most of thestudents were surprised how heavy theirbags actually were. Most bags weighed30–60% of their body weight.

“One of my main goals is creatingawareness, and then building this up to be more of a bigger program. If I canreach more kids, more classrooms, and have this be an actual event for theschools, that would be great! I would like to make this more of a partnershiptoo, so we can get proper backpacks tosome of the kids. Some kid’s backpacksare old, and worn out. Most parentsdon’t know that this is an issue. I wouldlike to get more community involvementto help start donating backpacks, ormaybe start a fund,” said Lydia.

{ }H E A L T H Y& H A P P Y

12

F

Backpack Attack?Did you know that your kid’s backpacksshould weigh no more than about 10% of their body weight?


� Distribute weight evenly by using both straps.Wearing a pack slung over one shoulder cancause a child to lean to one side, curving the spine and causing pain or discomfort.

� Select a pack with well-padded shoulder straps. Shoulders and necks have many blood vesselsand nerves that can cause pain and tingling in the neck, arms, and hands when too much pressure is applied.

� Wear the waist belt if the backpack has one.This helps distribute the pack’s weight more evenly.

What’s thebest way to load abackpack?� A child’s backpack should

weigh no more than about 10% of his or her bodyweight. This means a student weighing 100pounds shouldn’t wear a loaded school backpack heavier than about 10 pounds.

� Load heaviest items closest to the child’s back.(At the back of the pack.)

� Arrange books and materials so they won’t slide around in the backpack.

� Check what your child carries to school andbrings home. Make sure the items are necessary for the day’s activities.

� If the backpack is tooheavy or tightly packed,your child can hand carry a book or other item outside the pack.

� If the backpack is tooheavy on a regular basis,consider using a book bag on wheels if your child’s school allows it.

{ }H E A L T H Y& H A P P Y

13

� Adjust the shoulder straps so that the pack fitssnugly on the child’s back. A pack that hangsloosely from the back can pull the child backwards and strain muscles.

� The bottom of the pack should rest in the curve of the lower back. It should never restmore than four inches below the child’s waistline.

� School backpacks come in different sizes for different ages. Choose the right size pack foryour child as well as one with enough room fornecessary school items.

Do you know if your kids are wearingtheir backpacks correctly? The first step to ensuring that your child is wearing a backpack that’s safe and comfortable is to ask them to show you how they wear it...and what they put inside. Then follow these guidelines created by American Occupational Therapy Association :

Occupational Therapist, Lydia Rapson surprises a 6th grade class with the weight of their backpacks.


You make a difference. The gifts we receive from YOUand other compassionate individuals has made itpossible for The Foundation for Firelands to say YES tonew technology and to providing patient assistancewhen all other resources run out. Thank You.

Our mission is to seek charitable contributions and resources that improve the health and well-being ofthe communities we serve and ensure that the careteam at Firelands will be there for you when youneed us most. Firelands was there for you at birthand with your support, will continue to be here foryou through life’s unexpected health emergencies.

When 51-year-old Shelly Heston went to bed onthe night of October 1, 2017, she didn’t expect towake up ten days later. After suffering from cardiacarrest, Shelly was unconscious and in intensive care for more than a week. Before returning home,

Dr. Scott Sheldon outfitted her witha LifeVest,® a life-saving device thatwould keep her heart beating in theevent of another cardiac arrest.Shelly had insurance but it wouldnot cover the device she desperatelyneeded. Without partners like you,

Shelly would not have been able to return home to

her family. Thanks to donors to The Foundation for Firelands, Shelly went home with the peace of mindthat she needed to return to her life. Without partnerslike you, the Foundation would not be able to providethe same impact to others in our community.

Imagine life without Firelands Regional MedicalCenter. Imagine if you were Shelly. Time is musclewhen cardiac arrest occurs. Imagine having to travelmore than 50 miles to the nearest full-service CardiacCatheterization Lab with intervention. Having localaccess to the advanced cardiac testing and a highlyskilled team of experienced cardiologists at Firelandscan mean the difference between life and death.

Stories like this are why physician and employeesat Firelands feel compelled to give themselves. Won’t you give a gift to help ensure Firelands Regional Medical Center will continue to be here for you when you need it most?

We are thankful for you. You and your family areimportant, and we want you to know that FirelandsRegional Medical Center is YOUR hospital.

Your gift will help ensure that Firelands will be herewhen you need us most! Simply enclose your gift inthe remittance envelope, or call 419-557-7150.

{ }FOUNDATIONN E W S

14

“The care team is

extremely grateful

for donors to the

Foundation for

Firelands Heart

Fund for providing

this potentially

life-saving

technology to

our patients at a

vulnerable time

in their lives.”

– W Scott Sheldon, MDNorth Ohio Heart/

Ohio Medical Group

Donors save lives


“It just made my day.”This simple statement from Joyce, a patient at Firelands Regional MedicalCenter Inpatient Rehabilitation Center,sums up the feeling of most patients, visitors, and staff when they encounterour pet therapy dogs. The pet visit program at Firelands began more than 20 years ago and the impact of the animalvisits grows each year. With nine furryfriends on the roster, each one brings itsown unique personality to the medicalcenter. They can be seen walking the halls of inpatient rehabilitation, inpatientbehavioral health, and employee areas tobring comfort, stress relief, and pure joy toall those they encounter.

However, one heart patient had the ultimate experience in recovery and asmall Havanese named Shelby may have very well played a significant role.Following a negative reaction to long-termmedication, Karen’s heart incurred dam-age and she required a quadruple bypass.

Unconscious for longer than what wasexpected, Karen’s nurse, Cory, called Volunteer Services and requested pettherapy for Karen, who has a dog and twocats at home. Knowing that the comfortof a familiar presence for Karen may behelpful, Shelby and her handlers, Judyand Bill, were brought to Karen’s ICU room.

Moving Karen’s hand over Shelby, thepet therapy team quietly stood by. Feelingan immediate connection to Karen, Billand Judy returned for five more visits –each one showing a marked increase inKaren’s responsiveness from opening hereyes to a smile to sitting up in a chair – all within 10 days from Shelby’s first visit.

Although Karen’s memory is limited tothat experience, she is quick to give creditfor the love and support from Shelby.

“They (pets) just understand when youneed them the most – they love you forwho you are,” she said.

The patients in the Inpatient BehavioralHealth Unit are treated weekly with a visitfrom Ty, a Dachshund mix, who providesdistraction and socialization from theiranxiety and depression. Even patientswho experience difficulty in focusing, interacting, or simply sitting still enjoyspending time petting and playing withthe canine visitor.

Pet Therapy dog “Brody” charms hospital staff.

Paws for a Cause!{ }L E N D A

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The benefits of pet therapy are well documented and can encompass a variety of animals in addition to dogs. Cats, birds and evenminiature horses are often seen in hospitals,nursing homes, and other facilities wherehealing is happening. Lowering bloodpressure, a new found sense of optimismand, perhaps most important, a genuinesmile are all positive effects of pet therapy.

But patients and their family membersaren’t the only hospital inhabitants thatbenefit from this special program. Clinicaland non-clinical staff alike agree thatthese four-legged volunteers are truly the best medicine.

Erica, an RN in the Wound Care Center,guarantees that following a visit from oneof our furry friends it lowers their stresslevels which in turn is passed through tothe patients they serve.

“Our smiles are contagious – when wefeel good inside, it’s a happy attitude thatpervades everyone,” she said.

Almost everyone in the Human Resource department has a dog of theirown so when one of these special petscomes to visit, it’s a pleasant distractionand a break from their routine that can’tbe measured.

“We miss our own dogs and thesevisits fill a void in our day,” says Lynn, an administrative assistant – of course – with a smile!

For more information on volunteer opportunities, contact Volunteer Services at 419-557-7460 or [email protected]


t’s that time of year again. We bring outour coats, cozy sweaters, and hoodies.

And for many people, it’s their favoritetime of year. But unfortunately it’s alsothe beginning of another (not-so-fun) season...cold and flu season. Kids tend tospread germs easily to everyone aroundthem, in school, at home, at grandma’s, etc.However, the flu season moves around ina fairly predictable pattern over the entireworld, so we usually have a sense of whenour area will start seeing the flu as well.For the U.S., the flu season usually startsin late fall or early winter.

One common misconception about the flu is that what we call “stomach flu”is not the same as influenza. Influenza is aviral illness that causes upper respiratoryproblems such as cough, sore throat,stuffy nose, and other symptoms likefevers and body aches. The “stomach flu”is usually a virus that causes upset stomach, vomiting and diarrhea over afew days. Neither are fun to deal with butinfluenza can cause major complications,including the need to be hospitalized. The stomach flu rarely causes that many problems.

Influenza also carries a higher risk ofcomplications in people with chronichealth problems, the elderly, and youngerchildren especially. The very best way to prevent flu complications is the flu shot.They are often available at your primarycare office and many retail pharmaciesoffer them for ages seven and up.

There are several types of viruses at this time of the year, causing many unpleasant symptoms, including sorethroat, cough, runny nose, sinus pressureand pain, fever, and fatigue. And this canlast for up to 7–10 days. Because of thesesymptoms people may think they needan antibiotic, but viral infections can’t betreated with antibiotics. Taking antibioticswithout having an infection increases theresistance of bacteria like MRSA. Peoplemay think they feel better after taking an antibiotic, but usually they are betterbecause the virus has run its course.

There are many treatments that mayhelp with symptom relief, but there arecurrently no cures or magic pills for aviral illnesses.

Sometimes secondary infections occur due to a viruses, such as ear infections, sinus infections, or bronchitis.These illnesses may require further treatment options that may, or may not, include antibiotics.

If you do get sick this season, pleasedon’t wait to visit your primary careprovider. You can receive same-day care at the locations below.

Yep, it’s cold and flu season againWe’re going to get through it together, with tips and advice from Stephanie Breault, FNP – C and Thomas Foraker FNP-C, members of the Urgent Care team in Clyde

{ }B E I N T H EK N O W

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Firelands Quick CareMonday–Friday: 9 am–7 pm Saturday–Sunday: 9 am–3 pmNo Appointment NecessaryPark Place Plaza5420 Milan Rd. (Rt. 250), Sandusky 419-557-6490 Firelands.com/QuickCare

Urgent Care ClydeMonday–Friday: 9 am–9 pmSaturday–Sunday: 9 am–3 pmNo Appointment Necessary1470 W. McPherson Highway, Clyde419-547-0700UrgentCareClyde.com


HAPPIEST BABY ON THE BLOCKParents will learn a step-by-stepapproach to soothe the fussiestbaby. Based on the techniques of world-renowned pediatrician Dr. Harvey Karp.Cost: FREEFirelands South Campus1912 Hayes Ave., Sandusky� Tuesday, February 19

6-8 pm� Tuesday, March 19

12:30-2:30 pmPlease register online at:firelands.com/classes-eventsErie County Health Department420 Superior St., Sandusky� Wednesday, January 16

12:30 – 2:30 pmCall 419-626-5623 to register.

CPR FOR FAMILY & FRIENDSDesigned to prepare people toprovide CPR in a safe, timely andeffective manner to adults, childrenand infants. This program is intendedfor people with no medical trainingwho want to learn more about CPR,AED use and choking.Firelands South Campus 1912 Hayes Ave., SanduskyCost: $10/person or $15/couple� Saturday, February 23

9 am – 12 pmPlease register online at:firelands.com/classes-events

SIBLING COURSEThis course prepares children for the upcoming birth of their sibling by helping them feel comfortable with the hospital setting and thevisiting routine after birth.Firelands Main Campus1111 Hayes Ave., Sandusky10 – 11:30 amCost: $10 per family� Saturday, December 1Please register online at:firelands.com/classes-events

STORK EXPRESSFree program designed to givepregnant women the opportunity tostart on paperwork that is requiredduring their hospital stay. For anymom-to-be that is at least 34 weeksinto her pregnancy.Firelands Main Campus1111 Hayes Ave., Sandusky9–11 am� Saturday, January 12� Saturday, February 9� Saturday, March 9Please register online at:firelands.com/classes-events

WINTER Calendar of EventsWOMEN &CHILDRENBABY & ME CLASSThis fun and educational class willprovide opportunity to engage yourbaby (ages 0-12 months) whilehaving experienced developmentaltherapists coach you throughimportant aspects of developmentincluding tummy time, positioning, toyand equipment choice, sensory play,and early language development.This class is a collaborative betweenspeech, occupational, and physicaltherapists from Firelands RegionalMedical Center Children’s S.P.O.T. andErie County Early Intervention.Firelands South CampusChildren’s S.P.O.T.Cost: FREE � First Thursday of every month

(October 2018–May 2019)9:30–11 am

To register please call:419-557-7076. Space is limited.

BABYSITTING COURSEChildren 11 years of age and olderwill learn important safety info andresponsibility guidelines when caringfor younger children.Firelands South Campus1912 Hayes Ave., Sandusky8:30 am – 4 pmCost: $65� Saturday, March 23Please register online at:firelands.com/classes-events

BREASTFEEDING BASICSTeaches new parents the benefits of breastfeeding and how tosuccessfully breastfeed their baby.Firelands South Campus1912 Hayes Ave., Sandusky9:30 am – 12 pmCost: $10 � Saturday, January 19� Saturday, February 16� Saturday, March 9Please register online at:firelands.com/classes-events

CHILDBIRTH EDUCATIONPrepares new parents for childbirthand caring for their new baby.Firelands South Campus1912 Hayes Ave., SanduskyCost: $35� Wednesdays

Jan. 9, 16, 23, 306–8:30 pm

� WednesdaysFeb. 6, 13, 20, 276–8:30 pm

� WednesdaysMarch 6, 13, 20, 276–8:30 pm

Please register online at:firelands.com/classes-events

CHILDBIRTH REFRESHERAnyone who has previously taken afull childbirth education course mayrepeat the course for $10. Althoughwelcome to attend an entire course,parents can limit their attendance toselect classes of the course, whichwill provide information for review.Cost: $10Friday & Saturday Course:Attend Saturday only, 9 am – 3 pmWeekday Course:Attend 2nd and 3rd night of the 4-class coursePlease register online at:firelands.com/classes-events


FREE BLOOD PRESSURE & BLOOD SUGARSCREENINGSScreenings are offered at variouslocations throughout Erie County. For a listing of dates and locations,please call 419-557-7410 or visitfirelands.com.

EDUCATIONBASIC LIFE SUPPORT (BLS)This American Heart Associationcourse is for healthcare providerssuch as nurses, doctors and otherpatient care-givers who respond to cardiovascular and respiratoryemergencies.Firelands South Campus1912 Hayes Avenue, SanduskyCost: $55 includes textbook

8 – 11:30 am� Tuesday, December 11� Tuesday, January 8� Thursday, January 31� Tuesday, February 5� Wednesday, March 20

1 – 4:30 pm� Thursday, December 27� Tuesday, January 22� Tuesday, February 19� Tuesday, March 5

Please register online at:firelands.com/classes-events

FREEDOM FROM SMOKING This 6-week program provides a supportive group environment and teaches a step-by-step methodfor changing behavior and quittingsmoking for long-term freedom.Firelands Main Campus1111 Hayes Ave., Sandusky Cost: FREE� Tuesday, January 8

6 pm Registration required by calling419-557-6151 or [email protected].

WOMEN &CHILDREN [Continued]

PEDIATRIC SPECIALTY CLINICSMonthly specialty clinics for children,staffed by Board Certified PediatricSpecialists. Firelands Main Campus1912 Hayes Ave., SanduskyPediatric Cardiology ClinicClaudine Whitfield, MDToledo ProMedica HospitalPediatric Cardiology Specialist

Firelands South CampusOutpatient Specialty Clinic1912 Hayes Ave., SanduskyPediatric Gastroenterology ClinicJudy Splawski, MDSharon Perry, NPRainbow Babies & Children’s HospitalPediatric Gastroenterology SpecialistPediatric Neurology ClinicMax Wiznitzer, MD Kathy Maxwell, NPRainbow Babies & Children’s HospitalPediatric Neurology SpecialistPediatric Orthopaedic ClinicGeorge Thompson, MDChristine Hardesty, MDRainbow Babies & Children’s HospitalPediatric Orthopaedic Specialists

Pediatric Physiatry ClinicDouglas Henry, MDCleveland Clinic Children’s Hospital Pediatric Physiatry Specialist

Pediatric Pulmonology ClinicAmy DiMarino, DO Rainbow Babies & Children’s HospitalBenjamin Goldstein, MDToledo ProMedica HospitalPediatric Pulmonology Specialists

To schedule an appointment,please call:� Dr. Whitfield, Pediatric

Cardiology Clinic & Dr. GoldsteinPediatric Pulmonology Clinic: 419-557-7840

� Dr. Henry, Pediatric PhysiatryClinic: 216-448-6179

� All Other Pediatric Clinics:1-800-377-3117

� General Information Contact Tina May, NCMA 419-557-6767

SCREENINGSMORNING COFFEEFree blood pressure and blood sugarscreenings. Special 55+ Club rate.Fasting lipid profile for $17.Firelands South Campus 1912 Hayes Ave., Sandusky� First Wednesday of every month

8–10 am

HEALTH & WELLNESSSCREENINGSVarious screenings offered to community members for a low-cost fee. Cash or check only.Beginning January 1, 2019, creditcard payments will be accepted.Costs:Complete Blood Count withMetabolic & Lipid Panel – $45 (No eating or drinking for 12 hours– water allowed.)Hemoglobin A1C – $25PSA – $30Date:� Thursday, December 13

7:30 – 9:30 amOffice of Dr. Rogers1605 State Route 60, Vermilion

Beginning January 1, 2019Costs:Complete Blood Count withMetabolic & Lipid Panel – $45 (No eating or drinking for 12 hours– water allowed.)Hemoglobin A1C – $25PSA – $30Vitamin D – $30TSH – $25Dates:� Saturday, January 19

7:30 – 9:30 amOffice of Drs. Kuns101 South Washington, Castalia

� Saturday, February 167:30 – 9:30 amOffice of Drs. Williamson & Perez300 Williams Street, Huron

� Saturday, March 97 – 9:30 amFirelands Main Campus1111 Hayes Ave., Sandusky

Must pre-register for all labwork. Call 419-557-7840 toregister.


HEARTSAVER FIRST AIDWITH CPR/AED This American Heart Associationcombo course teaches the chain ofsurvival including first aid basicssuch as medical, injury andenvironmental emergencies, plus allCPR components and AED training.Firelands South Campus1912 Hayes Avenue, SanduskyCost: May take each classseparate for $55 or as a combo for $100; price includes textbook.8 am – 1 pm� Wednesday, December 12� Wednesday, January 16� Wednesday, February 13� Wednesday, March 13Please register online at:firelands.com/classes-events

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGYThis course discusses the basicknowledge of the language ofmedicine and explains how complexmedical terms are formed. Noprevious knowledge of medicalterminology is required.Firelands South Campus1912 Hayes Avenue, SanduskyCost: $150 (includes materials)� Mondays

January 7 to March 412:30–2:30 pm

Call 419-557-6740 to register.

STOP THE BLEEDDesigned to teach bystanders theimportance of quickly stopping bloodloss in the event of an emergencysituation. Firelands South Campus1912 Hayes Avenue, Sandusky1–2 pmCost: $15; optional supplies will be offered for purchaseduring class.� Wednesday, December 12� Wednesday, January 16� Wednesday, March 13Please register online at:firelands.com/classes-events

LUNCHEONCLUBSandusky Yacht Club 529 E. Water St., SanduskyBuffet lunch: 11am – 12:30 pm Presentation: 12:30 pmEarly reservations are recommended,calling 419-557-7840or register online at firelands.comCost: $18/person(Includes tax/tip, cash or check only)� Wednesday, February 13

High Pressure SituationsSpeaker: Jennifer Kaple DNP, RN, FNP-C Firelands Physician Group

High blood pressure affects nearlyhalf of all adults (46%) in the UnitedStates, according to the estimationsof the American Heart Association.High blood pressure also can affectkidneys, arteries, eyes, and cancause sexual dysfunction. We don’twant to “pressure” you, but whywould you miss this opportunity toeducate yourself to live longer andhealthier?� Wednesday, March 27

DASH FOR A BETTER LIFESpeaker: Natalie Romito,RD,LDRegistered Dietician, FirelandsRegional Medical Center

DASH diet has been ranked Best Diet8 years in a row by US News & WorldReports because it has been shownto improve health. The diet is provento lower blood pressure andcholesterol, and is associated withlower risk of several types of cancer,heart disease, stroke, kidneydisease, reduced risk of developingdiabetes, and now is associated withreduced risk of depression. Feelyounger inside and out. Learn aboutthis life changing diet!� Wednesday, April 24

G.I. Wish I Knew MoreSpeaker: Lawrence McCormack, MD

Your digestive health plays a huge role in your overall health.Swallowing, to your stomach, to yourbowels, learn from Dr. McCormackthe “ins and outs” of yourgastrointestinal system, and thechanges that may occur over time.

Early reservations arerecommended. Visit the Calendar& Events section on firelands.comor call 419-557-7840.

COMMUNITYEVENTSSocial Media, Gamingand the Developing BrainHow does technology and mediaaffect our children’s development, or lack of development, young adultsinter-social skills, people of all ages’quality of sleep, and potentialaddictions to technology? Join us for a Community Forum with a panelof experts to address questions andconcerns regarding possible effectsof today’s technology and media on our cognitive, physical and socio-emotional well-being. The panelwill consist of a sleep specialist,behavioral health counselor, andpediatric therapy specialist. Firelands South Campus1912 Hayes Ave., Sandusky� Wednesday, February 27

6 – 7 pmTo register, call 419-557-7410or visit the calendar & eventssection on firelands.com

AUXILIARY/GIFT SHOPSALES & EVENTSMASQUERADE JEWELRY SALEThe latest trends in jewelry andaccessories. All items are $5.Firelands Main Campus1111 Hayes Ave., Sandusky� Thursday, December 6

8 am – 8 pm� Friday, December 7

8 am – 1 pm

VALENTINE’S DAYFLORAL SALEOrder a beautiful bouquet for that special someone in your life!Pick up is February 14. Must bespecial ordered during presale,February 1–8.Firelands Main Campus1111 Hayes Ave., Sandusky� Monday, February 4

8 am – 8 pm

OUT-OF-THE-BOX SHOE SALEShop the latest in shoes forhealthcare workers or office workers. Brands include Born,Clarks, Crocs, Dansko, Reeboks,Skechers, and much more.Firelands Main Campus1111 Hayes Ave., Sandusky� Thursday, March 7

8 am–8 pm� Friday, March 8

8 am –1 pm

BOOKS R FUNFeaturing a wide variety of newbooks at prices up to 70% off retail value.Firelands Main Campus1111 Hayes Ave., Sandusky� Thursday, March 21

8:30 am – 3:30 pmFirelands South Campus1912 Hayes Ave., Sandusky� Wednesday, April 3

8:30 am – 3:30 pm

Interested in joining the Firelands Auxiliary or volunteering in our Gift Shops? For more info call 419-557-5469.


Feel Better with Firelands® is published by the Marketing Department of Firelands Regional Medical Center. Reproduction or use without written permission of written or pictorial content in any manner is prohibited. This publication is for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as medical advice.

� Reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic. Cook about 2 minutes until garlic is golden.

� Add diced tomatoes with juice and increase heat to medium-high. Add vermouth (or wine) and cookfor approximately 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally,until tomatoes begin to breakdown.

� Stir in pepper and salt. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and cover.

� Once the squash is cool enough to handle, use a fork to scrape the flesh from the shell and add it to the tomato sauce.

� Stir basil into the tomato sauce mixture and serve.

nutrition Analysis per ServingCalories 240 caloriesFat 11 gramsSaturated Fat 1.5 gramsMono Unsaturated Fat 7.5 gramsCholesterol 0 gramsSodium 220 milligramsCarbohydrate 31 gramsFiber 9 gramsProtein 4 gramsPotassium 1010 milligrams

Nutrition Information compiled from the National NutrientDatabase for Standard reference, accessed on (12/14/17).

Prep time: 30 minutes • total time: Approximately 1 hour • Servings per Recipe: 4

NON-PROFIT ORG.U S POSTAGE

PAIDSANDUSKY, OH 44870

PERMIT NO. 111111 Hayes AvenueSandusky, OH 44870

inGREDiEntS� 1 medium spaghetti squash (4–5 pounds),

cut in half, seeds removed� 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil� 2/3 cup chopped onion� 4 garlic cloves, minced� 2 pounds ripe tomatoes, diced

(about 4 cups, save juice)� ¼ cup vermouth

or a dry white wine or dry red wine� ½ teaspoon ground pepper� ¼ teaspoon salt� 8–10 fresh basil leaves, torn

DiRECtionS � Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet

with parchment paper. Place spaghetti squash halvesflesh side down on to the baking sheet. Bake 40-50minutes, until the squash is tender when piercedwith a knife. Remove from oven and allow to cool.

� While the squash is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion

and cook for 2-3 minutes, until fragrant and starting to soften.


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