<iframe class="embed-responsive-item" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/UpQwM2FmsIg" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> <p class="article-body"> Cancer involves so much more than medical care. On top of getting a scary diagnosis and enduring difficult treatments, patients have to deal with finances and insurance, the logistics of getting to multiple appointments, seemingly endless amounts of paperwork, talking about uncomfortable topics with their families, and much more. It can be confusing and overwhelming, which is why GBMC has an entire department dedicated to helping patients with their non-clinical needs. In this interview, Brandon Costantino, Manager of Oncology Support Services (OSS) for the Sandra & Malcolm Berman Cancer Institute at GBMC, talks about the many resources offered to patients undergoing treatment for a cancer diagnosis. <br> <br> The OSS team includes two social workers, an outreach coordinator, a survivorship nurse, and a patient resource navigator. They provide everything from counseling, to assistance with finances, to transportation coordination, and anything else a patient might need. "We want to be the people who can solve your problem or get you to the people who can. If you need something that isn't clinical, come see us," Brandon says. If GBMC can't meet your needs in-house, the OSS team is able to refer you to the proper resources outside of the organization. <br> <br> Oncology support services are available to anyone associated with GBMC — both patients and caregivers. A cancer diagnosis can be incredibly draining for family and close friends of the patient. Navigating through the complexities of the ever-changing healthcare system and simply knowing how to be there for their loved one sometimes feels insurmountable. "One of the hardest things," says Brandon, "is getting caretakers to care for themselves first." He likened it to using oxygen masks on an airplane. "If you aren't breathing, you can't help someone else breathe." <br> <br> GBMC works hard to make sure that oncology support services are accessible for everyone. "We don't charge a single penny for anything we do," explains Brandon. "We would never want finances to be the reason someone doesn't get what they need." The program is entirely funded by donors and proceeds from events like <a href="http://legacychase.org/" target="_blank">Legacy Chase at Shawan Downs</a>, a steeplechase horse race held every year in Cockeysville. <br> <br> Every year, Oncology Support Services also throws a Cancer Survivorship Celebration. After all, survivorship starts as soon as you are diagnosed and are living with cancer! All current and former GBMC cancer patients are invited! The event brings everyone together in a non-clinical setting to eat, dance, and simply celebrate life. <br> <br> <strong>Watch the entire series:</strong> <br> <br> <a href="/node/3320">Part 1</a> — Dr. Robert Donegan, MD, Medical Oncology <br> <br> <a href="/node/3473">Part 2</a> — Brandon Costantino, Oncology Support Services at GBMC <br> <br> <a href="/node/3474">Part 3</a> — Barbara Pisano Messing, The Milton J. Dance, Jr. Head & Neck Center, Head & Neck Surgery, and the Johns Hopkins Voice Center located at GBMC <a href="/node/3665">Part 4</a> — Beth Nardone, Co-Chair of the Oncology Patient & Family Advisory Council and Cancer Survivor </p>
<iframe class="embed-responsive-item" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/a_G4Zb_uNIM" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> <p class="article-body"> <strong>Where patients become family</strong> <br> <br> Forty years ago, when Milton J. Dance was diagnosed with head and neck cancer, there was no team centered on care for patients with this disease. Mr. Dance wanted to change that and endowed what is now known as the Milton J. Dance, Jr. Head and Neck Center at GBMC. The center provides people with all types of head and neck cancer with a coordinated team approach to treating the disease, as well as support for survivors and their families. Barbara Pisano Messing, MA, CCC-SLP, BCS-S, director of the center, talked with Mary Beth Marsden and Don Scott about the benefits of this team approach, the care pathway the center has developed, and what people can do to lower the risk of developing these cancers. <br> <br> “We take a coordinated team approach to caring for our patients,” she explained. “Our team not only includes medical, radiation, and surgical oncologists, but also speech-language pathologists, otolaryngology nurse specialists, oncology registered dieticians, oncology social workers, oral pathologists, and maxillofacial prosthodontists—all the care and support our patients need as they move through diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship. We work to minimize the number of appointments our patients have so they see multiple members of the team during each visit to make receiving care more convenient.” <br> <br> Barbara shared tips on what people can do to lower their risk of head and neck cancer, including getting children vaccinated against the HPV virus, one of the main drivers of the increase in these types of cancer, as well as not smoking or chewing tobacco and avoiding alcohol. “If something in your mouth or neck feels or looks irregular, then get it evaluated,” she advised. “Early detection and not using tobacco or alcohol can improve your outcome if you are diagnosed with many head and neck cancers. <br> <br> While the team usually follows patients for five years after their treatment ends to watch for any signs that the cancer has returned, Barbara said, “We say we never discharge our patients. They all become part of our family.” <br> <br> <br> <strong>Watch the entire series:</strong> <br> <br> <a href="/node/3320">Part 1</a> — Dr. Robert Donegan, MD, Medical Oncology <br> <br> <a href="/node/3473">Part 2</a> — Brandon Costantino, Oncology Support Services at GBMC <br> <br> <a href="/node/3474">Part 3</a> — Barbara Pisano Messing, M.A., CCC-SLP, BCS-S, The Milton J. Dance, Jr. Head & Neck Center, Head & Neck Surgery, and the Johns Hopkins Voice Center located at GBMC <a href="/node/3665">Part 4</a> — Beth Nardone, Co-Chair of the Oncology Patient & Family Advisory Council and Cancer Survivor </p>
<iframe class="embed-responsive-item" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/cUa_qABsAzk" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> <p class="article-body"> <strong>A cancer survivor gives back</strong> <br> <br> Six years ago, Beth Nardone was diagnosed with an invasive, aggressive form of breast cancer. She underwent three surgeries, chemotherapy, and radiation. Today, she shares her own experience and supports cancer patients and caregivers at GBMC as the co-chair of the Oncology Patient & Family Advisory Council. She talked with Mary Beth Marsden and Don Scott about her diagnosis and treatment and why she feels blessed to be able to give back through the council. <br> <br> “When you’re diagnosed with cancer, you need to make your treatment the priority,” Beth explained. “Because my cancer was aggressive, I needed to start treatment quickly. I was lucky to have the team of doctors I did. They not only treated my cancer, they also have such heart and care so much about you. When I had complications from a medication I was taking to control the cancer, they didn’t give up. They found a way for me to get treatment for the heart-related side effects and continue taking the medication, which was an essential part of my treatment. Because of that commitment and care, I’m here today.” <br> <br> In her role on the council, Beth works with other survivors to make the process of undergoing cancer treatment at GBMC better for those that come after them by advocating for changes big and small and sharing patient and family feedback with GBMC leadership. “Being part of the council is my way of taking something difficult and negative and turning it into something positive,” she said. “In addition to being a survivor, I was also the caregiver for both of my parents, so I understand both sides of the experience. It’s a gift that I can give to help others.” <br> <br> Asked what she wishes the friends and family of cancer survivors knew, Beth explained, “Don’t walk on eggshells. We may want to talk about our fears and a lot of difficult topics that no one really wants to talk about. But it’s helpful when friends and family are open to those conversations.” <br> <br> <strong>Watch the entire series:</strong> <br> <br> <a href="/node/3320">Part 1</a> — Dr. Robert Donegan, MD, Medical Oncology <br> <br> <a href="/node/3473">Part 2</a> — Brandon Costantino, Oncology Support Services at GBMC <br> <br> <a href="/node/3474">Part 3</a> — Barbara Pisano Messing, The Milton J. Dance, Jr. Head & Neck Center, Head & Neck Surgery, and the Johns Hopkins Voice Center located at GBMC <a href="/node/3665">Part 4</a> — Beth Nardone, Co-Chair of the Oncology Patient & Family Advisory Council and Cancer Survivor </p>
<iframe class="embed-responsive-item" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/qgKK01O8UjY" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> <p class="article-body"> According to the American Stroke Association, stroke is the 4<sup>th</sup> leading cause of death in the United States. Unfortunately, strokes often go untreated because people don't recognize the signs until it's too late. The best way to treat a stroke is to catch it as soon as possible and get that person to the emergency department. Dr. James Bernheimer, Director of The Primary Stroke Center at GBMC, answers questions about the warning signs of a stroke and recovery following a stroke. <br> <br> Simply put, a stroke is a vascular event that stops blood from reaching a certain part of the brain. This can be caused either from a blood clot or from bleeding within the brain. "Stroke is tricky because the signs and the symptoms change depending on what part of the brain is involved," says Dr. Bernheimer, "the signs of a stroke differ from person to person." The key to recognizing a stroke is seeing a neurological deficiency. This can take many forms, but the most common are: </p> <ul> <li> Weakness or numbness, particularly on one side of the body </li> <li> Drooping of the face </li> <li> Problems with speech </li> <li> Vision loss </li> </ul> There is a simple acronym for recognizing the symptoms of stroke: <strong>FAST</strong>. This stands for face, arm, speech, and time. <br> <br> <strong>Face</strong> — The face is drooping, especially on one side. <br> <strong>Arm</strong> — The person is unable to hold up their arms or their arm drifts as they try to hold it up. <br> <strong>Speech</strong> — Speech is slurred or altered. <br> <strong>Time </strong>— The sooner the person receives medical treatment, the better their outcome is likely to be. <br> <br> If someone is experiencing one or more of the first three symptoms, there is a 70% - 80% chance that they are having a stroke and need immediate medical attention. Treatments are most successful if they are administered within three to six hours; once brain cells die, there is no way to regenerate them. Because of this, recovering from a stroke can be a very long process — it can take six months to a year if the stroke is severe. Rehabilitation involves extensive physical and/or speech therapy, which helps the brain re-learn some of the things it lost. Unfortunately, about two thirds of patients don't fully regain all the function that they had before the stroke. <br> <br> It's very important to know if you are at a higher risk for a stroke. The most common risk factors are: <ul> <li> Age </li> <li> High blood pressure </li> <li> High cholesterol </li> <li> Diabetes </li> <li> Cigarette smoking </li> </ul> While you can't change your age, you can improve the other major risk factors with the help of your primary care provider (PCP). At GBMC HealthCare System, our PCP offices are different. By working with people to get their cholesterol, high blood pressure, and diabetes under control, our PCPs are helping us achieve our vision of providing the care we would want for our own loved ones. We want to prevent people from having a stroke in the first place. And by educating people about stroke, we enable them to get quicker care for their loved ones if a stroke occurs, which we hope will give them a better chance at recovery. Remember, time is critical when determining the outcome of a stroke. The sooner a person receives treatment, the more likely they are to survive and regain function. If you suspect someone is having a stroke, call 911 immediately to get them to the nearest hospital. Acting quickly could save that person's life.
<iframe class="embed-responsive-item" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/vSVb5FOw2Bc?ecver=1" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> <p class="article-body"> You may have never heard of a hospitalist, but if you are admitted into a hospital, he or she will be a critical part of your care. In this interview with Ashley James from ABC2-News, Dr. J. Christopher Greenawalt, Director of the GBMC Hospitalist Practice, answered questions about the team that cares for you during a hospitalization at GBMC. <br> <br> Hospitalists are part of a medical subspecialty that focuses on coordinating care during a patient's stay. "They know every square inch of the hospital," says Dr. Greenawalt. They are board-certified in Internal Medicine and do everything from recording patient information to interpreting diagnostic tests and creating treatment plans. Hospitalists are directly involved in patient care and work to coordinate with specialists and the patient's primary care provider. "It's all about coordination," says Dr. Greenawalt, "it's so important that the outpatient doctor is kept in the loop." <br> <br> Hospitalists visit each patient several times per day to make sure that treatment is going smoothly and to answer any questions they have. Nationally, hospitalists see an average of 15 patients per day, but GBMC has reduced this number to 13 to make sure every patient gets the highest possible level of care. <br> <br> Although hospitalists do communicate with recent patients to make sure they are getting appropriate care after their discharge, patients cannot make a follow-up appointment with a hospitalist. "By definition, the hospitalist is a physician that takes care of someone who is already within the walls of the hospital," Dr. Greenawalt explains. Part of every patient's care is the creation of a solid plan to transition them back to home life. Ashley and Dr. Greenawalt also discussed the role that mental health has in patient hospitalization and how it's important for hospitalists to take the extra steps to ensure that proper care is given to these patients. </p>
<iframe class="embed-responsive-item" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/uPvInQ5mHh0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> <p class="article-body"> <strong>What resources does GBMC provide for survivors of sexual assault and child abuse?</strong> <br> <br> This 90-minute series focuses on the wide range of services and support that GBMC provides for survivors of sexual assault and intimate partner violence, domestic abuse, and child sexual abuse, tackling topics many people find difficult to talk about in an open, honest dialogue with experts in the field. It also includes information about a new class, developed by the Beau Biden Foundation, for parents and caregivers that shares important information on how to prevent, recognize, and report child sexual abuse. <br> <br> Laura Clary, RN, clinical program manager of GBMC’s <a href="/node/2550" target="_blank">Sexual Assault Forensic Examination (SAFE) Program</a>, talked about the services the program provides 24/7/365 for survivors of rape, sexual assault, child abuse, trafficking, and intimate partner violence. “We are here to care for the health and wellbeing of survivors,” she explained. “Every survivor reacts differently. There is no right or wrong way to handle trauma for survivors. People disclose in their own time, in their own way. If a friend or family member tells you they’ve been assaulted or abused, the first thing you should say is that you believe them and you’re there to support them.” <br> <br> Dr. Michelle Chodow, GBMC Pediatrics, shared her advice on what parents and caregivers can do to help prevent child sexual abuse. “Start by teaching your children the correct anatomically names for all their body parts,” she recommended. “It’s the first step to empowering them and starting a lifelong open, honest, non-judgmental dialogue. They can say no to being touched by anybody, even a hug from grandma. The message is they are in control over their bodies.” She noted that children between the ages of 6 and 13 are the most vulnerable to predators and that sexual abuse is more common than many people realize—1 in 5 girls and 1 in 20 boys will be sexually abused before they reach adulthood. She also acknowledged that talking about sex and sexual abuse is outside many parent’s comfort zone, but by letting your kids know that this is a tough topic for you, they’ll appreciate your honesty and understand that even if they feel uncomfortable talking about it, it’s too important a topic not to talk about. Patty Dailey Lewis, executive direction of the Beau Biden Foundation for the Protection of Children, and Lanny Dowell, GBMC’s Parent Education and Doula coordinator, discussed a new child sexual abuse prevention program that GBMC will soon be offering to parents and others in the community. The program, <a href="https://www.beaubidenfoundation.org/stewardsofchildren/" target="_blank">Stewards of Children</a>, will teach parents, caregivers, and community members what they can do to help prevent this type of abuse, warning signs to watch for, and why it’s so important to report abusers. “Our role as adults is to protect children. It’s not their job, it’s ours,” explained Patty. “This program is designed to provide adults with the knowledge and courage to do that.” </p>
<iframe class="embed-responsive-item" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/h7rUcMSJlN8" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> <p class="article-body"> <strong>The GBMC SAFE program: Help and support for sexual assault and domestic violence survivors</strong> <br> <br> More than one million women, half a million men, and around 1.4 million children in Maryland are survivors of sexual violence. GBMC’s Sexual Assault Forensic Examination Program (SAFE) is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to document and treat injuries, collect evidence, and connect survivors with counselors and other resources in the community. SAFE nurse Barbara Harris talks with Magic 95.9 host April Watts about the services available and how GBMC is working to empower survivors and help them begin their healing process. <br> <br> “We provide services in a safe, confidential, respectful, and non-judgmental atmosphere,” explains Barbara. “Victims of sexual violence often feel like they’ve lost control over their lives. We work to re-empower them, so they can regain a sense of safety and control.” <br> <br> The program is coordinated by a team of registered nurses who are specially trained to care for survivors of rape, sexual assault, child abuse, and intimate partner violence. The SAFE nurses perform forensic examinations to collect evidence, which is then submitted to the Baltimore County Police crime lab. The evidence can be submitted anonymously if the survivor does not want to press charges right away and it will be stored for at least 20 years so that it’s available if the victim changes his or her mind. The State of Maryland pays for the exam so there is no charge to the patient and insurance will not be billed. <br> <br> In addition to the forensic nursing services, the program also connects survivors with an advocate who helps survivors with crisis counseling, safety planning, danger assessment, and referrals for counseling, legal, and shelter services within the community. The advocates also offer follow-up support by phone. “If you’ve experienced sexual assault or intimate partner violence, the sooner you see us the better,” adds Barbara. “You do have 120 hours (five days) to receive an exam, so even if you don’t see us right away, you still have the option.” </p>
<iframe class="embed-responsive-item" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/QR0XWIuj1vU" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> <p class="article-body"> Every month, GBMC holds a Facebook Live cooking demonstration featuring healthy recipes from The Sleeved Chef, Michael Salamon. Michael graduated from the Culinary Institute of America and is passionate about “teaching cooking techniques and recipes to pre- and post-operative bariatric patients.” He had a type of bariatric surgery known as a sleeve gastrectomy in September 2016 and enjoys sharing his knowledge of cooking with fellow weight loss patients. Co-hosting the demonstration with him is Jana Wolff, RD, LDN, Director of Nutrition for GBMC’s Comprehensive Obesity Management Program, where Michael was treated. <br> <br> Please tune in to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/gbmcmedia" target="_blank">GBMC’s Facebook page</a> on <strong>Tuesday, June 19</strong> at 6pm for another live cooking demonstration with Michael and Jana! <br> <br> <strong>Ingredients (Ratatouille)</strong> <br> <br> 1 onion, thinly sliced <br> 2 garlic cloves, minced <br> 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil <br> 1 eggplant, large dice (3 cups) <br> 1 zucchini, julienne <br> 1 red bell pepper, julienne <br> 2 tomatoes, seeded and rough chop <br> ¼ tsp dried oregano <br> ¼ tsp dried thyme <br> ⅛ tsp ground coriander <br> ½ cup basil, julienne <br> Salt and pepper to taste <br> <br> <strong>Ingredients (Salade Lyonnaise)</strong> <br> <br> 4 cups frisee greens 1 lb chicken <br> ½ lb turkey bacon, medium dice <br> 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil <br> 1 shallot, chopped <br> 4 tbsp sherry vinegar <br> 1 tbsp dijon mustard <br> 4 whole eggs <br> Salt and pepper to taste <br> <br> <strong>Directions</strong> </p> <ol> <li> In a large skillet, cook the onion and the garlic in 2 tablespoons of the oil over moderately low heat, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened. </li> <li> Add the remaining 3 tablespoons oil and heat it over moderately high heat until it is hot, but not smoking. </li> <li> Add the eggplant and cook the mixture, stirring occasionally, for 8 minutes, or until the eggplant is softened. </li> <li> Stir in the zucchini and the bell pepper and cook the mixture over the moderate heat, stirring occasionally for 12 minutes. </li> <li> Stir in the tomatoes and cook the mixture, stirring occasionally for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. </li> <li> Stir in the oregano, thyme, coriander, and fennel seeds, as well as salt, and pepper to taste, and cook the mixture, stirring, for 1 minute. </li> <li> Stir in the basil and combine the mixture well. The ratatouille may be made 1 day in advance, kept covered and chilled, and reheated before serving. </li> </ol> <strong>Nutrition (Ratatouille)</strong> <br> <br> Recipe yields 4 servings <br> Calories: 105 <br> Total Fat: 7.2g <br> Saturated Fat: 1g <br> Cholesterol: 0mg <br> Sodium: 16.4mg <br> Protein: 1.5g <br> Carbohydrate: 9.2g <br> <br> <strong>Nutrition (Lyonnaise)</strong> <br> <br> Calories: 149 <br> Total Fat: 9.2g <br> Saturated Fat: 2g <br> Cholesterol: 206mg <br> Sodium: 458.6mg Protein: 11.9g Carbohydrate: 4g
<iframe class="embed-responsive-item" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/5Z6vjADmLuY" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> <p class="article-body"> No one wants to end up in the emergency room or the hospital, but it can be a particularly anxiety-provoking experience for children. Jennifer Seiler, a child life specialist at GBMC, talked with Ashley James, host of ABC 2 News Good Morning Maryland, about how to prepare your child for a visit to the hospital and all the ways a child life specialist can make the experience a more positive one for the whole family. <br> <br> “The emergency room is a place you never plan to be, but our child life specialists work to normalize the hospital experience for young patients by using familiar, fun activities like games and crafts, and explaining everything they’ll experience step-by-step,” Jennifer explained. “Play is the foundation of everything we do and it helps children understand that the hospital is a safe place and that everyone is there to help them.” <br> <br> Jennifer suggested ways that parents can help ease their children’s anxiety about hospital and doctor visits, including reading age-appropriate books like Curious George Goes to the Hospital and playing with toy medical kits that allow them to become familiar with the equipment they’ll see when they’re receiving care. If your child is scheduled to be hospitalized, a tour before they’re admitted can also be a big help. <br> <br> At GBMC, whether your child is in the emergency room or is admitted to the hospital, you can ask your doctor or nurse to arrange for a child life specialist to see your child. There’s no charge for the service, which is supported by donations to the hospital Jennifer also shared advice for the siblings of children who are in the hospital. “Siblings often feel forgotten when a brother or sister is in the hospital,” she explained. “It’s important to maintain as much of their routine at home as possible—attending school, going to bed at the usual time—and to let them know what’s going on with their sibling.” </p>
<iframe class="embed-responsive-item" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/89aOR1kItNQ" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> <p class="article-body"> Everyone is impacted by cancer at some point in their life. Whether you have been diagnosed, or you know someone who has, cancer seems to be everywhere. This is one of the reasons why GBMC has dedicated an entire department to <a href="/node/2491" target="_blank">Oncology Support Services</a> (OSS). In this Facebook Live with Magic 95.9 multi-media personality April Watts, Brandon Costantino, Manager of Oncology Support Services for the Sandra & Malcolm Berman Cancer Institute at GBMC, discusses resources for patients undergoing treatment for a cancer diagnosis. <br> <br> The OSS department is committed to assisting patients before, during, and after their treatment and all of the services are provided free of charge. There are many costs that come with a cancer diagnosis, some of which may not be immediately obvious. "Having cancer is very expensive," says Brandon, "and it's easy for bills to pile up." This can be especially true for people whose insurance is limited. OSS has a patient navigator who is dedicated to removing cost barriers and making the experience of cancer treatment as easy as possible for each patient. This can include anything from arranging for transportation to finding community resources or creating a financial plan to pay off bills or debt. <br> <br> There are also two certified social workers on staff who help patients through fear and anxiety, substance use issues, figuring out how to talk to your children about the diagnosis, and more. "Every hospital has some form of psychosocial assistance, but GBMC is unique in that it invests in having a full department devoted to these services," Brandon explains. <br> <br> Oncology support services extend beyond treatments, too. OSS has a Survivorship Program, which provides patients with a personalized care plan and treatment summary. This gives them a comprehensive outline of the all the treatments they have received as well as the date of diagnosis, type of cancer, and any problems that occurred during treatment. They also receive information on lifestyle changes that they can make to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence. "If you come to GBMC, we want to help you," says Brandon, "that's why we come to work every day. Your stories inspire us." </p>
<!-- .row.more { background-color: rgba(225, 225, 225, 0.41); border: 2px dotted #ddd; margin-bottom: 2em; padding:1em; } .more .leftside-stories-wrapper .feature-r { min-width:33.33333% } .more h3 { color: #5f5f5f; } --> This video is part of a series. View the others below to learn more about Gilchrist Kids. How Pediatric Hospice Differs from Adult Hospice Discussing Pediatric Hospice with Erin Bull, Gilchrist Kids Nurse Child Life in Gilchrist Kids Nobody likes to think about kids dying. But for families whose children are facing the end of life, Gilchrist Kids provides a circle of care to help them through. Pediatric hospice was the subject of GBMC’s March Facebook Live broadcast on Greater Living Live, with local news personalities Mary Beth Marsden and Don Scott. Gilchrist Kids staff Erin Bull, Mary Tiso and Beth Solomon, and parent Marci Scher were guests on the show, which was filmed in front of a live studio audience at Entercom studios. GBMC Media Relations Manager host John Lazarou kicked off the discussion with Gilchrist Kids pediatric hospice nurse Erin Bull, BSN, RNC-NIC, CPLC, CHPPN, who provides hands-on nursing care for children with life-limiting illnesses and support for their families. Erin said she first developed a deep appreciation for the end of life during her time as a neonatal intensive care nurse, and is now dedicated to helping make sure families have “the best experience through the worst situation.” For Erin, having her own child has been “a gamechanger” in how she approaches her work. “Now I see my child in the eyes of every other child I care for and I see myself in the parents,” she said. “It’s opened up a new place in my heart.” Through her visits with families week after week, she develops close relationships with those she cares for. Speaking of one of these families, she explained, “I wasn’t just their nurse. Their son wasn’t just a patient. They were like family…. I held his hand as he took his last breath.” Being a hospice nurse, she said, is not just a job—it’s an honor. Mary Tiso, Gilchrist Kids clinical manager, dispelled a few misconceptions about pediatric hospice care. “Most think of hospice as a place, but really hospice is a concept or philosophy,” she explained. Most patients are seen at home, though Gilchrist does have a four-bed pediatric inpatient unit at Gilchrist Center Baltimore for children who have symptoms that can’t be managed at home or who need respite care. Qualifying for hospice requires a prognosis of six months or less to live, though many children live longer—some even live years—and some die sooner. Some people think hospice means giving up. But pediatric patients can continue to seek curative care for their illness and keep their same doctors while receiving hospice care. “Every patient and family is so different,” said Mary. “We meet every family where they are.” Some need hands-on nursing care. Others need more social or volunteer support. After a child dies, the Gilchrist Kids team continues to offer bereavement support for the family for up to two years. An important component of the care is emotional support for the child and for the child’s siblings. Gilchrist Kids child life therapist Beth Solomon fills this role. A sick child may be scared about treatment and worried about the future, while a sibling may be struggling with feelings of guilt or fear. Beth works with children through what she calls “the language of play.” Many of the kids she works with are aware that they are dying, she said, even when parents try to hide it from them. Beth knows the child’s clinical history and can give them one-on-one attention to help make a child feel comfortable and in control. Though some days are undeniably sad, most of the time she is finding ways to bring joy and peace to children, making their illnesses more bearable. The best days are when she makes a child smile or laugh again, or sees them pulling pranks and just being a regular kid. Working with dying children is emotionally difficult, but she finds meaning in helping them have the fullest life possible. “As sad and upsetting and tragic as it can be, it’s also really beautiful,” she said. “There can still be joy.” The final guest, parent Marci Scher, gave a moving firsthand account of her experience with pediatric hospice. Her son, Ian, was cared for by Gilchrist Kids for three years before passing away from a rare disease in 2016 at age 13. Erin Bull was their nurse. Erin was the family’s point person for all things medical—she answered their questions, ordered Ian’s medicine, answered middle of the night phone calls, and became like family. The Gilchrist team helped the entire family, including Ian’s twin sister, Becca. With Gilchrist’s help, Marci said, “I was able to maintain working and my sanity.” Ian was able to continue going to school and maintain the best quality of life until the end. She said that Ian passed away on his own terms. He went to sleep one night, and in the morning, he was nonresponsive. Erin was there with the family when they turned his ventilator off. “He was a very loving and caring soul,” said Marci. “No matter what we do, Ian is always with us.”
<!-- .row.more { background-color: rgba(225, 225, 225, 0.41); border: 2px dotted #ddd; margin-bottom: 2em; padding:1em; } .more .leftside-stories-wrapper .feature-r { min-width:33.33333% } .more h3 { color: #5f5f5f; } --> This video is part of a series. View the others below to learn more about Gilchrist Kids. Discussing Pediatric Hospice with Erin Bull, Gilchrist Kids Nurse The Mother of a Gilchrist Kids Patient Describes Her Experience Child Life in Gilchrist Kids Nobody likes to think about kids dying. But for families whose children are facing the end of life, Gilchrist Kids provides a circle of care to help them through. Pediatric hospice was the subject of GBMC’s March Facebook Live broadcast on Greater Living Live, with local news personalities Mary Beth Marsden and Don Scott. Gilchrist Kids staff Erin Bull, Mary Tiso and Beth Solomon, and parent Marci Scher were guests on the show, which was filmed in front of a live studio audience at Entercom studios. GBMC Media Relations Manager host John Lazarou kicked off the discussion with Gilchrist Kids pediatric hospice nurse Erin Bull, BSN, RNC-NIC, CPLC, CHPPN, who provides hands-on nursing care for children with life-limiting illnesses and support for their families. Erin said she first developed a deep appreciation for the end of life during her time as a neonatal intensive care nurse, and is now dedicated to helping make sure families have “the best experience through the worst situation.” For Erin, having her own child has been “a gamechanger” in how she approaches her work. “Now I see my child in the eyes of every other child I care for and I see myself in the parents,” she said. “It’s opened up a new place in my heart.” Through her visits with families week after week, she develops close relationships with those she cares for. Speaking of one of these families, she explained, “I wasn’t just their nurse. Their son wasn’t just a patient. They were like family…. I held his hand as he took his last breath.” Being a hospice nurse, she said, is not just a job—it’s an honor. Mary Tiso, Gilchrist Kids clinical manager, dispelled a few misconceptions about pediatric hospice care. “Most think of hospice as a place, but really hospice is a concept or philosophy,” she explained. Most patients are seen at home, though Gilchrist does have a four-bed pediatric inpatient unit at Gilchrist Center Baltimore for children who have symptoms that can’t be managed at home or who need respite care. Qualifying for hospice requires a prognosis of six months or less to live, though many children live longer—some even live years—and some die sooner. Some people think hospice means giving up. But pediatric patients can continue to seek curative care for their illness and keep their same doctors while receiving hospice care. “Every patient and family is so different,” said Mary. “We meet every family where they are.” Some need hands-on nursing care. Others need more social or volunteer support. After a child dies, the Gilchrist Kids team continues to offer bereavement support for the family for up to two years. An important component of the care is emotional support for the child and for the child’s siblings. Gilchrist Kids child life therapist Beth Solomon fills this role. A sick child may be scared about treatment and worried about the future, while a sibling may be struggling with feelings of guilt or fear. Beth works with children through what she calls “the language of play.” Many of the kids she works with are aware that they are dying, she said, even when parents try to hide it from them. Beth knows the child’s clinical history and can give them one-on-one attention to help make a child feel comfortable and in control. Though some days are undeniably sad, most of the time she is finding ways to bring joy and peace to children, making their illnesses more bearable. The best days are when she makes a child smile or laugh again, or sees them pulling pranks and just being a regular kid. Working with dying children is emotionally difficult, but she finds meaning in helping them have the fullest life possible. “As sad and upsetting and tragic as it can be, it’s also really beautiful,” she said. “There can still be joy.” The final guest, parent Marci Scher, gave a moving firsthand account of her experience with pediatric hospice. Her son, Ian, was cared for by Gilchrist Kids for three years before passing away from a rare disease in 2016 at age 13. Erin Bull was their nurse. Erin was the family’s point person for all things medical—she answered their questions, ordered Ian’s medicine, answered middle of the night phone calls, and became like family. The Gilchrist team helped the entire family, including Ian’s twin sister, Becca. With Gilchrist’s help, Marci said, “I was able to maintain working and my sanity.” Ian was able to continue going to school and maintain the best quality of life until the end. She said that Ian passed away on his own terms. He went to sleep one night, and in the morning, he was nonresponsive. Erin was there with the family when they turned his ventilator off. “He was a very loving and caring soul,” said Marci. “No matter what we do, Ian is always with us.”
<!-- .row.more { background-color: rgba(225, 225, 225, 0.41); border: 2px dotted #ddd; margin-bottom: 2em; padding:1em; } .more .leftside-stories-wrapper .feature-r { min-width:33.33333% } .more h3 { color: #5f5f5f; } --> This video is part of a series. View the others below to learn more about Gilchrist Kids. How Pediatric Hospice Differs from Adult Hospice The Mother of a Gilchrist Kids Patient Describes Her Experience Discussing Pediatric Hospice with Erin Bull, Gilchrist Kids Nurse Nobody likes to think about kids dying. But for families whose children are facing the end of life, Gilchrist Kids provides a circle of care to help them through. Pediatric hospice was the subject of GBMC’s March Facebook Live broadcast on Greater Living Live, with local news personalities Mary Beth Marsden and Don Scott. Gilchrist Kids staff Erin Bull, Mary Tiso and Beth Solomon, and parent Marci Scher were guests on the show, which was filmed in front of a live studio audience at Entercom studios. GBMC Media Relations Manager host John Lazarou kicked off the discussion with Gilchrist Kids pediatric hospice nurse Erin Bull, BSN, RNC-NIC, CPLC, CHPPN, who provides hands-on nursing care for children with life-limiting illnesses and support for their families. Erin said she first developed a deep appreciation for the end of life during her time as a neonatal intensive care nurse, and is now dedicated to helping make sure families have “the best experience through the worst situation.” For Erin, having her own child has been “a gamechanger” in how she approaches her work. “Now I see my child in the eyes of every other child I care for and I see myself in the parents,” she said. “It’s opened up a new place in my heart.” Through her visits with families week after week, she develops close relationships with those she cares for. Speaking of one of these families, she explained, “I wasn’t just their nurse. Their son wasn’t just a patient. They were like family…. I held his hand as he took his last breath.” Being a hospice nurse, she said, is not just a job—it’s an honor. Mary Tiso, Gilchrist Kids clinical manager, dispelled a few misconceptions about pediatric hospice care. “Most think of hospice as a place, but really hospice is a concept or philosophy,” she explained. Most patients are seen at home, though Gilchrist does have a four-bed pediatric inpatient unit at Gilchrist Center Baltimore for children who have symptoms that can’t be managed at home or who need respite care. Qualifying for hospice requires a prognosis of six months or less to live, though many children live longer—some even live years—and some die sooner. Some people think hospice means giving up. But pediatric patients can continue to seek curative care for their illness and keep their same doctors while receiving hospice care. “Every patient and family is so different,” said Mary. “We meet every family where they are.” Some need hands-on nursing care. Others need more social or volunteer support. After a child dies, the Gilchrist Kids team continues to offer bereavement support for the family for up to two years. An important component of the care is emotional support for the child and for the child’s siblings. Gilchrist Kids child life therapist Beth Solomon fills this role. A sick child may be scared about treatment and worried about the future, while a sibling may be struggling with feelings of guilt or fear. Beth works with children through what she calls “the language of play.” Many of the kids she works with are aware that they are dying, she said, even when parents try to hide it from them. Beth knows the child’s clinical history and can give them one-on-one attention to help make a child feel comfortable and in control. Though some days are undeniably sad, most of the time she is finding ways to bring joy and peace to children, making their illnesses more bearable. The best days are when she makes a child smile or laugh again, or sees them pulling pranks and just being a regular kid. Working with dying children is emotionally difficult, but she finds meaning in helping them have the fullest life possible. “As sad and upsetting and tragic as it can be, it’s also really beautiful,” she said. “There can still be joy.” The final guest, parent Marci Scher, gave a moving firsthand account of her experience with pediatric hospice. Her son, Ian, was cared for by Gilchrist Kids for three years before passing away from a rare disease in 2016 at age 13. Erin Bull was their nurse. Erin was the family’s point person for all things medical—she answered their questions, ordered Ian’s medicine, answered middle of the night phone calls, and became like family. The Gilchrist team helped the entire family, including Ian’s twin sister, Becca. With Gilchrist’s help, Marci said, “I was able to maintain working and my sanity.” Ian was able to continue going to school and maintain the best quality of life until the end. She said that Ian passed away on his own terms. He went to sleep one night, and in the morning, he was nonresponsive. Erin was there with the family when they turned his ventilator off. “He was a very loving and caring soul,” said Marci. “No matter what we do, Ian is always with us.”
<!-- .row.more { background-color: rgba(225, 225, 225, 0.41); border: 2px dotted #ddd; margin-bottom: 2em; padding:1em; } .more .leftside-stories-wrapper .feature-r { min-width:33.33333% } .more h3 { color: #5f5f5f; } --> This video is part of a series. View the others below to learn more about Gilchrist Kids. How Pediatric Hospice Differs from Adult Hospice The Mother of a Gilchrist Kids Patient Describes Her Experience Child Life in Gilchrist Kids Nobody likes to think about kids dying. But for families whose children are facing the end of life, Gilchrist Kids provides a circle of care to help them through. Pediatric hospice was the subject of GBMC’s March Facebook Live broadcast on Greater Living Live, with local news personalities Mary Beth Marsden and Don Scott. Gilchrist Kids staff Erin Bull, Mary Tiso and Beth Solomon, and parent Marci Scher were guests on the show, which was filmed in front of a live studio audience at Entercom studios. GBMC Media Relations Manager host John Lazarou kicked off the discussion with Gilchrist Kids pediatric hospice nurse Erin Bull, BSN, RNC-NIC, CPLC, CHPPN, who provides hands-on nursing care for children with life-limiting illnesses and support for their families. Erin said she first developed a deep appreciation for the end of life during her time as a neonatal intensive care nurse, and is now dedicated to helping make sure families have “the best experience through the worst situation.” For Erin, having her own child has been “a gamechanger” in how she approaches her work. “Now I see my child in the eyes of every other child I care for and I see myself in the parents,” she said. “It’s opened up a new place in my heart.” Through her visits with families week after week, she develops close relationships with those she cares for. Speaking of one of these families, she explained, “I wasn’t just their nurse. Their son wasn’t just a patient. They were like family…. I held his hand as he took his last breath.” Being a hospice nurse, she said, is not just a job—it’s an honor. Mary Tiso, Gilchrist Kids clinical manager, dispelled a few misconceptions about pediatric hospice care. “Most think of hospice as a place, but really hospice is a concept or philosophy,” she explained. Most patients are seen at home, though Gilchrist does have a four-bed pediatric inpatient unit at Gilchrist Center Baltimore for children who have symptoms that can’t be managed at home or who need respite care. Qualifying for hospice requires a prognosis of six months or less to live, though many children live longer—some even live years—and some die sooner. Some people think hospice means giving up. But pediatric patients can continue to seek curative care for their illness and keep their same doctors while receiving hospice care. “Every patient and family is so different,” said Mary. “We meet every family where they are.” Some need hands-on nursing care. Others need more social or volunteer support. After a child dies, the Gilchrist Kids team continues to offer bereavement support for the family for up to two years. An important component of the care is emotional support for the child and for the child’s siblings. Gilchrist Kids child life therapist Beth Solomon fills this role. A sick child may be scared about treatment and worried about the future, while a sibling may be struggling with feelings of guilt or fear. Beth works with children through what she calls “the language of play.” Many of the kids she works with are aware that they are dying, she said, even when parents try to hide it from them. Beth knows the child’s clinical history and can give them one-on-one attention to help make a child feel comfortable and in control. Though some days are undeniably sad, most of the time she is finding ways to bring joy and peace to children, making their illnesses more bearable. The best days are when she makes a child smile or laugh again, or sees them pulling pranks and just being a regular kid. Working with dying children is emotionally difficult, but she finds meaning in helping them have the fullest life possible. “As sad and upsetting and tragic as it can be, it’s also really beautiful,” she said. “There can still be joy.” The final guest, parent Marci Scher, gave a moving firsthand account of her experience with pediatric hospice. Her son, Ian, was cared for by Gilchrist Kids for three years before passing away from a rare disease in 2016 at age 13. Erin Bull was their nurse. Erin was the family’s point person for all things medical—she answered their questions, ordered Ian’s medicine, answered middle of the night phone calls, and became like family. The Gilchrist team helped the entire family, including Ian’s twin sister, Becca. With Gilchrist’s help, Marci said, “I was able to maintain working and my sanity.” Ian was able to continue going to school and maintain the best quality of life until the end. She said that Ian passed away on his own terms. He went to sleep one night, and in the morning, he was nonresponsive. Erin was there with the family when they turned his ventilator off. “He was a very loving and caring soul,” said Marci. “No matter what we do, Ian is always with us.”
<iframe class="embed-responsive-item" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Ga45N1ZYFXU" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> <p class="article-body"> 1 in 8 people over the age of 60 experience some level of bowel incontinence, yet it's still a taboo topic. People are often embarrassed and avoid treatment until they simply can't live with it anymore, but they don't have to wait. Bowel incontinence is a common and treatable condition. In this interview, Dr. Joseph DiRocco, colorectal surgeon and Medical Director of GI Oncology at GBMC, answers important questions about bowel conditions including incontinence. <br> <br> Bowel incontinence is simply the leakage of stool or gas. It isn't, in itself, a dangerous condition, but it can seriously affect a person's quality of life. People who experience it may find themselves mapping out their lives based on where bathrooms are or always needing an extra set of clothes for when accidents can't be avoided. Some people avoid going out altogether and become reclusive. <br> <br> Chronic leakage may be caused by an underlying condition, so it's important to talk to your doctor if you're experiencing these symptoms. However, most incontinence can be solved with slight lifestyle changes and potentially some medication. Simple things like increasing fiber intake can make a huge difference in someone's life. <br> <br> Hemorrhoids, which are swollen blood vessels in the anus or colon, are another common bowel issue. They can cause bleeding and discomfort, but like incontinence, they aren't inherently harmful. However, there are many conditions with similar symptoms — only half of Dr. DiRrocco's patients that have come in for hemorrhoids actually have them. Whether you're experiencing incontinence, hemorrhoids, or any other bowel issue, you should talk to your doctor. "Fear and anxiety are major impediments to people's health," said Dr. DiRocco. "If you think you have an issue, reach out. Don't worry about embarrassment, just seek the help you need." </p>
