<p class="article-body"> Jose's wake-up call came during a mandatory health screening at his workplace. Other than the break in his typical schedule, Jose thought this day was going to be like every other, but he couldn't have been more wrong. The screenings were held in the conference room with dozens of people waiting for their turn. When it was time for Jose’s screening, he walked over expecting to hear the typical "you're overweight and you need to get healthy" spiel, and that's what he got...at first. <br> <br> The surprise came when his test numbers got back and the man who was administering the test took him to a corner of the room where no one would overhear. His demeanor had changed completely, and Jose suddenly became anxious. The man looked at him very seriously and said "you're going to have a stroke. I don't know when, but if you don't change, it's going to happen." Taken aback, Jose asked him how he knew this. He responded by saying "I had a stroke six months ago and your numbers are the same as mine were." Jose was shocked. He knew he wasn't in great shape and that he had some health issues, but he never thought that he was at any serious risk. Now he knew he needed to reevaluate his health. <br> </p> <div class="container-fluid" id="gallery"> <div class="leftside-stories-wrapper full-doc-list"> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/8a75272faced2f8bdb72985ede832e0b.jpg" alt="Jose Gutierez"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/7e37b6e47a3414d8ca5a3894580ceb33.jpg" alt="Jose Gutierez"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/887c42891e68f892dc5f331be8d9db9d.jpg" alt="Jose Gutierez"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/5a489f0557399b73312fd7e0db0ce99b.jpg" alt="Jose Gutierez"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/8b336455ed386e7a8a4402da4553fb06.jpg" alt="Jose Gutierez"> </div> </div> </div> <br> He had been overweight his entire life. Growing up in a large Puerto Rican family, there was always an abundance of food. "There was never a time you'd go hungry," he said, "every event and gathering centered around food." Jose enjoyed the way food made him feel and this environment enabled him to fall into unhealthy eating habits. If something tasted good, he'd eat it, and he never seemed to get full. <br> <br> As a payroll implementation specialist, Jose’s job is fairly stressful, and it wasn't uncommon for him to sit at his desk all day long. Even if he had the chance, he rarely got up to move around because he experienced swelling and cramping in his legs when he walked. Weight-loss surgery first came onto Jose's radar when a coworker of his got the surgery to help with his back problems. While it made sense for his coworker, Jose never thought of it as an option for himself. He believed — as many do — that weight-loss surgery was a cop-out for people who couldn't lose weight on their own. "It felt like cheating to me," he said. Even with this viewpoint, Jose decided that he didn't have anything to lose and started researching weight-loss surgery programs. <br> <br> After looking into GBMC's <a href="/node/2332" target="_blank">Comprehensive Obesity Management Program</a> (COMP), he decided to attend one of the <a href="https://gbmchealthcare.formstack.com/forms/weight_loss_information_session" target="_blank">free information sessions</a>. What he found was that his perception had been completely wrong. "I realized it wasn't a one-off solution," he said, "it takes work and commitment." After doing some additional research, Jose decided that he would benefit from surgery and took the steps he needed to move forward. <br> <div class="container-fluid" id="gallery"> <div class="leftside-stories-wrapper full-doc-list"> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/63600459c667e59f96426bab964cb3bd.jpg" alt="Jose Gutierez"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/ccc86dff0802e3d4d32015516bb69c7f.jpg" alt="Jose Gutierez"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/a02f94d36f87f345da2216e362401ca1.jpg" alt="Jose Gutierez"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/733cb96bdf5979952fdc705a2d462b5c.jpg" alt="Jose Gutierez"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/9d09aaf89a5978ee02ee49d8ae2afef3.jpg" alt="Jose Gutierez"> </div> </div> </div> <br> At his heaviest, Jose weighed more than 400 pounds — two years after his surgery, he has lost 130 pounds and feels amazing. "I don't think I've ever been healthier than I am right now. It's been nothing but positive change." He has gone from eating anything in front of him to knowing when he's full and making conscious decisions about what food he eats. Jose is now at work and says that his heart rate is slower on a stressful day than it was when he was calm prior to losing the weight. "I knew it was going to be a big change, but I didn't know how great it was going to be. If you told me I had to do it again, I'd say when and where?" <br> <br> If you’re ready to begin your own transformation, or would simply like to know more about weight-loss surgery, please <a href="https://gbmchealthcare.formstack.com/forms/weight_loss_information_session" target="_blank">sign up to attend one of our free information sessions</a>! <div class="end-of-story"> </div>
<p class="article-body"> Hunger was Adrianna's biggest problem. She never seemed to be full, so she just kept eating and eating. While she tried to stay active and be mindful of the food she ate, Adrianna always seemed to have too much. By the time she was 25, she weighed 200 pounds — which was quite heavy for her petite frame — and she had picked up "lots of unhealthy habits," including smoking. <br> <br> She found some success by taking various weight-loss medications and starting a rigorous exercise schedule, but she was only able to keep her weight off for about a year. She became prediabetic, had high cholesterol, and developed knee issues that made it difficult for her to walk. Her weight exacerbated other health issues to the point that she had to stop working. <br> <br> Adrianna was very aware of how overweight she was and began to have serious self-esteem issues. "I was never confident," she said, "I could barely walk with my head up." She found herself avoiding social situations because she was uncomfortable shopping for clothing. "Anytime there was a family event or work party, I just ended up skipping it because I couldn't go shopping to get something to wear." She distinctly remembers a time when she was leaving a busy restaurant and a man she had never met called her dumb and fat in front of her entire family and everyone waiting to be seated. She felt so humiliated and shamed that she couldn't even look at herself in the mirror. <br> </p> <div class="container-fluid" id="gallery"> <div class="leftside-stories-wrapper full-doc-list"> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/d5575d789707a92c1e7586f416c06c82.jpg" alt="Adrianna West"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/182fbd55807f2c301394c5aead7d5a50.jpg" alt="Adrianna West"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/fb4d9495690f6f4a05b2430c96585ef4.jpg" alt="Adrianna West"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/f04be39980bf15e193a0b9ed5bcd8ecd.jpg" alt="Adrianna West"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/c5411f04dd3027bdd673637609af2757.jpg" alt="Adrianna West"> </div> </div> </div> <br> Everything came to a head in 2015 when she and her husband learned she was pregnant for the third time. A few months into the pregnancy, she miscarried, and was absolutely devastated. It was her second miscarriage. Knowing that her weight may have been a contributing factor, she decided it was time to make a change that would last. At this point, she weighed 270 pounds. <br> <br> Her mother had undergone weight-loss surgery many years ago, but Adrianna had never seriously considered it for herself. She began looking into programs and found GBMC's <a href="/node/2332" target="_blank">Comprehensive Obesity Management Program</a> (COMP) on social media. After <a href="https://gbmchealthcare.formstack.com/forms/journey_starts_now" target="_blank">learning more</a>, she decided that this was her next step. <br> <br> Now, several years after her successful gastric sleeve surgery, most of Adrianna's health problems are gone. She can keep up with her family and no longer has mobility issues. Her blood pressure and cholesterol are normal, and she is no longer prediabetic. She quit smoking and, thanks to her care team at COMP, is able to recognize and stop eating when she becomes full. <br> <div class="container-fluid" id="gallery"> <div class="leftside-stories-wrapper full-doc-list"> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/b40537ab7672a39b6bf0908050080fe9.jpg" alt="Adrianna West"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/5dff3d486dc880e449bc2fe406cb4515.jpg" alt="Adrianna West"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/bb06f15cb660f728a1f241382dfb6eb8.jpg" alt="Adrianna West"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/08a27f506f51d8d1977a9d5b2c9a75e1.jpg" alt="Adrianna West"> </div> </div> </div> <br> On top of her improved health, Adrianna feels confident and beautiful for the first time in her life. "Dressing up is amazing and fun now. I love going to parties and I can actually enjoy myself." She has gone back to work and recently made a career change that she's very excited about. Adrianna has finally taken control of her life and now nothing can hold her back. <br> <br> If you’re ready to begin your own transformation, or would simply like to know more about weight-loss surgery, start your journey today and <a href="https://gbmchealthcare.formstack.com/forms/journey_starts_now">sign up for a free consultation</a>! <div class="end-of-story"> </div>
<iframe class="embed-responsive-item" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/RCnfBF1yQHc?rel=0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> <h5 style="text-align: right"> * For closed captioning, click the <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/edd9ba121c174d97705f2b40e511e38b.png" style="width: 20px;"> button in the bottom-right of the video. * </h5> <h4> A Greater Living Special Feature with Don Scott </h4> The Presbyterian Board of Governors Cochlear Implant Center of Excellence at GBMC has touched the lives of people from all walks of life, extending well beyond the Baltimore area. Host Don Scott had the pleasure of sitting down with Mr. Robert Pullo at his office in York, Pennsylvania. A well known banker, philanthropist, entrepreneur, and mentor to his community, Bob suffered from progressive hearing loss since he was a teenager. However, even with the assistance of hearing aides, his problems became progressively worse, eventually forcing him to step aside from the work he cherished so dearly...
<iframe class="embed-responsive-item" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KWGZexoR1Z4" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> <h5 style="text-align: right"> * For closed captioning, click the <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/edd9ba121c174d97705f2b40e511e38b.png" style="width: 20px;"> button in the bottom-right of the video. * </h5> Elena Pearlstein and Barbara Kraska, who both underwent cochlear implant surgery at GBMC’s Presbyterian Board of Governors Cochlear Implant Center of Excellence, shared the story of their journeys with Mary Beth Marsden. Elena, who’s now in 6th grade, was diagnosed with hearing loss when she was one after her parents noticed she wasn’t babbling like other babies her age. Her doctor found fluid in her ears, so she had surgery to implant tubes that would drain the fluid. <br> <br> “We thought that would fix the problem,” said her mother. “But three months later, her hearing still hadn’t improved. We took her for another evaluation and I expected to hear that nothing was wrong, but the doctor said she did have hearing loss and needed hearing aids. It hit me like a ton of bricks.” <br> <br> Unfortunately, Elena’s hearing loss continued to progress. About a year ago, her parents noticed she was falling behind in school and becoming socially isolated, so they had her assessed by an educational psychologist who works with children with hearing issues. He raised the idea of getting cochlear implants. Said Elena, “I was excited, but I didn’t know what it would be like. It took some time to get used to the first implant, but now that I have the second one I can hear the notes and words better when I sing.” Added her father, “She has access to so much sound and so many experiences she didn’t before she got her implants.” <br> <br> Barbara Kraska is equally excited about her cochlear implant. “It changed my life for the better very quickly,” she explained. Barbara had been living with progressive hearing loss for several years but was in denial. “When my kids said I should get my hearing tested, I took it personally. Now I wish I’d gotten tested sooner.” <br> <br> Where she once was embarrassed about having to ask people to repeat what they said, didn’t enjoy watching movies because she couldn’t follow what was going on, and started to withdraw from doing things she enjoyed, today Barbara is the happy, social person she was before her hearing loss. “I highly recommend the cochlear implant to people with hearing loss,” she said. “I love going to the movies and out to dinner now. The other night my husband couldn’t hear what a waiter said and he asked me if I heard and I said, ‘Yes I did’ with a big smile.”
<p class="article-body"> Gerri Baum joined her first diet program when she was just 12 years old. Throughout her life, she dealt with the emotional and physical roller coaster of losing weight and then gaining it all back. As a social media manager and consultant, she frequently makes presentations to clients and she found it difficult to find clothes that looked professional and fit her properly. While she didn't doubt her expertise, she felt like she wasn’t taken as seriously as she'd like to be. Her struggle became more poignant when her daughter began walking. She had difficulty keeping up with her rambunctious daughter and Gerri could see that she was taking a backseat in her life. Despite her desire to lose weight, she simply didn't have the tools to make it happen. <br> <br> "I've been on every diet program there is," she said, but nothing ever stuck. With each attempt, she would see short-term success that faded away with the everyday stress of being a working mother. It was difficult to keep up a consistent exercise schedule and the extreme diets she went on were unrealistic and unpleasant. Gerri struggled to maintain regular healthy habits. <br> <br> She hadn't considered weight-loss surgery until she saw a coworker transform before her eyes. Gerri watched as she quickly shed pounds after her surgery. There was a profound shift in her coworker — she was happier, healthier, and completely changed her demeanor. That was when it clicked for Gerri and she decided that surgery was her next step. <br> </p> <div class="container-fluid" id="gallery"> <div class="leftside-stories-wrapper full-doc-list"> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/612768ffdb44221a0ee5a19225035486.jpg" alt="Gerri Baum"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/b5b75cd6e76a3120479f7689a4c6eee8.jpg" alt="Gerri Baum"> </div> </div> </div> <br> She was devastated to find out that her insurance wouldn't cover the procedure — but she didn't let that stop her. Determined to take this step for herself, Gerri traveled to Mexico where she could afford a laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (lap-band) surgery without the coverage from her insurance company. While she saw a slight improvement after surgery, Gerri wasn't able to get the support she needed and soon gained back all of the weight she had lost. Ten years later, she was prediabetic and back in the same place she had started. Gerri became depressed and discussed her weight issues with her primary care physician, who suggested she consider the <a href="/node/2332" target="_blank">Comprehensive Obesity Management Program</a> (COMP) at GBMC. <br> <br> After attending an <a href="https://gbmchealthcare.formstack.com/forms/weight_loss_information_session" target="_blank">information session</a>, Gerri made an appointment with Dr. Elizabeth Dovec. During the appointment, they reviewed her medical history in detail, as well as her past and present weight-loss efforts. It was decided that best course of action was a revision surgery that removed her lap-band and created a laparoscopic gastric sleeve. This time, the surgery was covered by insurance and it didn't cost her a penny. <br> <br> This surgery was very successful, and she lost more than 100 pounds. Unfortunately, Gerri also suffered from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and over time, it became apparent that the sleeve was contributing to her discomfort. After discussing this complication with Dr. Dovec, they decided that the best option to relieve her symptoms was a gastric bypass revision surgery. This, too, was successful and Gerri lost even more weight. <br> <div class="container-fluid" id="gallery"> <div class="leftside-stories-wrapper full-doc-list"> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/9796b37fa967c2ac81ad84a74921a74a.jpg" alt="Gerri Baum"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/ce5b9c7884af936796872cc929748559.jpg" alt="Gerri Baum"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/55793c86191de9150163eb341c58e780.jpg" alt="Gerri Baum"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/44641bdfea7d66718422d3342e513351.jpg" alt="Gerri Baum"> </div> </div> <br> </div> She no longer feels held back by her body and she isn’t experiencing GERD symptoms. One of the biggest changes is her new sense of boldness. For the first time in her life, she feels comfortable in her own skin and she’s doing things she never thought she could. Her recent trip to Italy is the perfect example. She walked miles each day exploring sites and “climbed more stairs than [she] cared to count,” but she had a wonderful time with her daughter. She afforded herself the luxury of buying a beautiful Italian dress — something she never would have done when she was heavy. Gerri said she wouldn't have even planned the vacation had she not lost the weight. <br> <br> Her professional life has changed, too. She has a much easier time finding clothes and is more confident while making presentations to her clients. "I don't think I lacked credibility before, but I definitely feel like I'm taken more seriously at work now." Gerri currently weighs less than half of what she did at her heaviest. "I never thought I'd get to the point where I wouldn't need to lose any more weight," she said. "I finally feel free." <br> <br> Interested in taking the first step in your own weight-loss journey? <a href="https://gbmchealthcare.formstack.com/forms/weight_loss_information_session" target="_blank">Register for a free COMP information session today!</a> <div class="end-of-story"> </div>
<p class="article-body"> Shawn Johnson was really good at losing weight...for short periods of time. He'd have bursts of motivation, but the pounds always came back. Without fail, Shawn found himself giving in to temptation and watching the number on the scale creep back up. He'd say to himself that he'd change once he got to a certain weight — first it was 350 pounds, then 400, then 450 — but he continually passed these markers without making any modifications to his lifestyle. "I thought to myself that if I kept going in the direction I'm going, I'll end up on <em>My 600-lb Life</em>," he said. <br> <br> Even with this thought, Shawn became discouraged and struggled to maintain healthy habits. His employer often held weight-loss competitions, and these served as his motivation rather than his desire to be healthy. Because he was so overweight, it was easy to shed pounds quickly, and he frequently won the competitions. "I'd win and take all the money and then I'd get lazy again." Once there was no longer a prize to be won, he would stop working out and everything would come back. "I felt like I was just wasting my time," he recalled. <br> <br> </p> <figure class="image-right"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/9951334914b5caeb6ad9fc448160e9c7.jpg" alt="Shawn Johnson"> <figcaption> Shawn, pictured center, at his friend's wedding. </figcaption> </figure> Shawn also found that his weight was disrupting his social life. He and his friends love going to amusement parks, but he had difficulty keeping up with the group. While they never said anything and always went at a pace he could handle, Shawn hated that they had to slow down for him. He was embarrassed that he couldn't walk for long periods of time and that he was often too heavy to ride roller coasters and water slides. "I was the big guy at the parks," he said, and he felt like everyone knew it. <br> <br> Even through all this, Shawn didn't really know how big he was until he saw a photograph of himself at his friend's wedding. Something about that specific picture resonated with him and he finally realized how significant his weight was.He knew that he could no longer live the way he was living and that he needed to make a change that would last. Weight-loss surgery seemed to be the best next step. <br> <div class="container-fluid" id="gallery"> <div class="leftside-stories-wrapper full-doc-list"> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/5659fedfedce10b886ec61c65e3c2885.jpg" alt="Shawn Johnson"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/ed376064c50a45068d371f5d7870e391.jpg" alt="Shawn Johnson"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/f394c959ef746501c256f4d4ee4b0984.jpg" alt="Shawn Johnson"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/d3f1839d2937ff924461bceabc5cfde2.jpg" alt="Shawn Johnson"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/f6bf56fa485f9233312dde01d665fa02.jpg" alt="Shawn Johnson"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/c2abd451f7cfb33d569b070c3efc6672.jpg" alt="Shawn Johnson"> </div> </div> </div> <br> This wasn't a decision that he took lightly; he researched for more than a year before choosing GBMC's <a href="/node/2332" target="_blank">Comprehensive Obesity Management Program</a> (COMP). A friend had added him to COMP's Facebook support group and Shawn was greatly encouraged by the before and after pictures that he saw, as well as the direct interaction between doctors and patients. In 2016, at age 29, Shawn had the weight-loss surgery that transformed everything about his life. <br> <div class="container-fluid" id="gallery"> <div class="leftside-stories-wrapper full-doc-list"> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/9c0b64728d800e8a53a219c02e796a8e.jpg" alt="Shawn Johnson"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/92313a7bbb83484878a77ee7f5babc54.jpg" alt="Shawn Johnson"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/a8d9e8838fe23ea83178d889a00ce17a.jpg" alt="Shawn Johnson"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/1fb29b620937b4b6a57a7535b1ad786a.jpg" alt="Shawn Johnson"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/ac9acc9888a98c2f066eccba1f470c64.jpg" alt="Shawn Johnson"> </div> </div> </div> <br> As of 2018, Shawn has lost 240 pounds and is still losing weight. He's healthier than he's ever been and is doing all the things he wanted to but never could. "I have so much more energy and I'm not embarrassed all the time." Shawn can now go to amusement parks and fit on every ride. He doesn't lose his breath or lag behind and he can actually enjoy himself with his friends. He no longer has to special order his clothes and can simply walk into a store and buy something that fits him. "It's the best decision I've ever made, and I'd make it 1,000 times over. My life has changed in so many ways and I refuse to go back." <br> <br> If you’re ready to begin your own transformation, or would simply like to know more about weight-loss surgery, please <a href="https://gbmchealthcare.formstack.com/forms/weight_loss_information_session" target="_blank">sign up to attend one of our free information sessions</a>! <div class="end-of-story"> </div>
<p class="article-body"> Dan Ridgely found ways to manage his stomach issues until 2005, when he experienced such severe bowel pain that his wife rushed him to the emergency room. During emergency surgery, doctors found that he had developed a full bowel blockage and had to remove a section of his colon. Shortly afterwards, Dan was diagnosed with Crohn's disease, a disease that causes chronic inflammation along the digestive tract. While he was diagnosed quickly, it took more than a decade for him to get the right treatment. <br> <br> People with Crohn's regularly deal with diarrhea, fatigue, constipation, and painful abdominal cramps, which can be debilitating. Dan experienced all of these symptoms and they significantly disrupted his life. His fatigue made it difficult get up to go to work and he lost his desire to participate in social events. "I didn't want to go anywhere, and I was in pain all the time," he says. His exhaustion went far beyond normal tiredness and he was having diarrhea six to seven times a day. He always needed to know where the closest bathroom was. <br> <br> Although it's a fairly common condition, the effectiveness of Crohn's treatments can vary from person to person. For Dan, nothing seemed to work and he felt his original gastroenterologist (GI) didn’t listen to his concerns. Eventually, Dan’s body stopped absorbing nutrients and he rapidly lost weight despite eating normally. His primary care doctor confirmed he was malnourished. After several years, Dan and his doctor did find a treatment that worked well enough for him to function again. While his Crohn's was still active, he was able to manage his symptoms and go back to living a semi-normal life. <br> <br> Unfortunately, in 2014, Dan began having difficulty swallowing, which his primary care doctor believed was caused by acid reflux. When reflux treatments proved to be ineffective, he was referred to an Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) specialist. To his frustration, the ENT was unable to diagnose an illness and he ended up with another GI doctor. <br> <br> Crohn's disease can affect the entire digestive tract and his new doctor discovered that it had travelled up to his esophagus. Once again, Dan found himself trying treatment after treatment with little success. His continually changing medications severely affected his immune system and even small issues wreaked havoc on his body. In 2017, he contracted viral meningitis, which was only diagnosed after three visits to the emergency department. "I just wanted someone to listen to me; I knew something was wrong." <br> <br> The flare up in his throat coincided with a flare up in his small bowel, and Dan struggled through increasingly frequent episodes that could take up to a week to recover from. There were times when he felt like he couldn’t even get up out of his chair to go to the bathroom — if he said he was having a "good" day, he meant he wasn't in constant, excruciating pain. It got so bad that his gastroenterologist said there was no more that he could do and referred him to Dr. Whitehead at GBMC, a gastroenterologist who has a special interest in inflammatory disease like Crohn’s. <br> <br> Seeing Dr. Whitehead felt like a breath of fresh air. She sat down, listened to him, and worked to find the actual problem. "Dr. Whitehead was incredibly proactive and she found exactly what I needed," says Dan. It turned out that his previous medications hadn't worked because they were treating his colon rather than his small bowel. His symptoms significantly improved once he began taking the proper medication. <br> <br> Despite a more than 30-minute commute, Dan continues to see Dr. Whitehead. Although it isn’t all smooth sailing, Dan finally feels like his doctor cares about him. He points to a time when his wife called the office with a question and Dr. Whitehead personally returned the call to schedule tests the next day. "None of my other doctors would have done that," he says. Crohn's is a chronic disease and Dan still experiences some side effects and symptoms, but Dr. Whitehead is always there and ready to tackle whatever problems arise. Dan has energy that he hasn't felt in years. He no longer scopes out bathrooms everywhere he goes, he isn’t in frequent pain, and his blood tests are coming back normal. "I got my life back," he says. <br> <br> </p> <div class="end-of-story"> </div>
<p class="article-body"> Nicki and Shannon have always been close, even for twins. They live within a couple miles of each other, work for the same company (their desks are right next to each other), and share friends. Unfortunately, for most of their adult lives, they also shared their struggle with being overweight. <br> <br> They tried what seemed like every exercise plan and extreme diet they could to lose weight, but nothing worked. Shannon became depressed and developed severe social anxiety. "I would almost never go out because I was worried and embarrassed about what people would think of me," she explained. She found herself eating in response to any strong emotion, which only fueled her anxiety. "I ate all the time, sometimes without even realizing it." Nicki, too, used food to relieve anxiety. Over time, they became concerned that they were on the path to developing diabetes. The disease runs in their family and the sisters worried that their children would be affected if they didn't start to take better care of themselves. "I want to be present with my kids, not worrying about insulin pumps or other medications," said Nicki. <br> <br> The last straw happened for Nicki one morning shortly after arriving to work. She sat down at her desk and heard a ripping sound. She looked down and, to her dismay, saw that her pants had split down the thigh. It was in that moment she decided she wasn't going to live like that anymore. <br> <br> By the time Nicki had reached her breaking point, both she and Shannon were 100 pounds overweight. They began researching bariatric programs in the area and decided that GBMC was the place for them. "We didn't see a lot of support at the other hospitals, so we were surprised to see how responsive the doctors were and how active people were in the Facebook support group," she explained. <br> </p> <div class="container-fluid" id="gallery"> <div class="leftside-stories-wrapper full-doc-list"> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/5342b506c110f8de1af248b2dbece924.jpg" alt="Nicki and Shannon"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/2367fa9a53e3d59ecea69dd1888d2080.jpg" alt="Nicki and Shannon"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/783dc3b708ad3c3275729caab295babd.jpg" alt="Nicki and Shannon"> </div> </div> </div> <br> In May 2015, Nicki had weight-loss surgery and everything about her life changed. In 7 months, she lost 130 pounds and has kept it off. "I have never been happier with myself. I found a new me and I'm not letting her go," she said. <br> <br> Around the same time, Shannon was diagnosed with intracranial hypotension, a brain condition that causes severe headache, nausea, vomiting, neck pain, visual and hearing disturbances, and vertigo. There are very few treatments for this disease and Shannon's symptoms weren't improving. Her doctor told her that substantial weight loss was one of her only options if she wanted to avoid brain surgery. Wanting to prevent this and having seen how successful her sister was, Shannon decided to join the <a href="/node/2332" target="_blank">Comprehensive Obesity Management Program</a> at GBMC. After her weight-loss surgery, she saw a significant decrease in her headaches and she no longer has constant ringing in her ears. "I got my life back," she said. <br> <div class="container-fluid" id="gallery"> <div class="leftside-stories-wrapper full-doc-list"> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/f9e243b5b5071ebdbfeaea38cda67a39.jpg" alt="Nicki and Shannon"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/f3e082c072f01b725cb941990bc82d80.jpg" alt="Nicki and Shannon"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/8425edb54a669bdbbf3551b868bf8063.jpg" alt="Nicki and Shannon"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/fbcf539f9e5ca8aa0eed4c5169daf084.jpg" alt="Nicki and Shannon"> </div> </div> </div> <br> On top of her symptom improvement, Shannon found a new confidence that she hadn't thought possible. She is no longer afraid to go to social events and spends time with her friends without feeling embarrassed. She's happier than she's ever been. <br> <br> Both Nicki and Shannon say that getting weight-loss surgery was one of the best decisions they've ever made and encourage anyone who might be considering a similar surgery to sign up for a free information session. <div class="end-of-story"> </div>
<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>
<p class="article-body"> A few years ago, Laura Gorrell looked at the trajectory of her life and didn't like the picture she saw developing, so she decided to do something about it. At age 23, she joined GBMC's <a href="/node/2332" target="_blank">Comprehensive Obesity Management Program</a> (COMP). Weight issues had always run in her family and even though she was active in sports, Laura, too, struggled with her weight. <br> <br> Throughout high school, Laura had been very involved in horseback riding, even competing at the national level. Everything went downhill when she went to college. With the work of two science degrees crammed into four years, she didn't have time to exercise or do much of anything else. "All I did was study, eat, and sleep," she says. Within the span of several months, she gained almost 90 pounds. Despite her passion for horseback riding, she felt she needed to stop due to her increasing weight. <br> <br> Laura struggled with the idea of weight-loss surgery, thinking that her family wouldn't support her. She was concerned they would think she was too young. She needn't have worried though; her family was incredibly supportive of her decision. Once she realized this, she immediately moved forward and made an appointment with Dr. Elizabeth Dovec. Despite her busy schedule, Laura found a way to make it work. "I didn't want to look back 20 years from now and feel like I had missed out on living. I want to live my life now." <br> </p> <div class="container-fluid" id="gallery"> <div class="leftside-stories-wrapper full-doc-list"> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/5bc116341e67b146a7ba34aac28cf0f0.jpg" alt="Laura Gorrell"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/da0538bd6691aaec37956ab74d99c9b8.jpg" alt="Laura Gorrell"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/ad264eb7a171fbf69b52f79733e4327c.jpg" alt="Laura Gorrell"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/c4f96834696de93a1c00d0c0bf3ac3bb.jpg" alt="Laura Gorrell"> </div> </div> </div> <br> In November of 2015, she had her weight-loss surgery. 115 pounds later, Laura is back to riding and she's training for half marathons with the RUNGBMC group. "I never thought I would do that," she says. Her weight loss has also improved her professional life as a scientist. People treat her differently than they did before. "I always felt like I needed to prove that I wasn't lazy. I don't get the feeling that people assume that about me anymore." Laura is now more confident than she has ever been. <br> <br> "I'm so glad I didn't wait." <br> <div class="container-fluid" id="gallery"> <div class="leftside-stories-wrapper full-doc-list"> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/07bb1acedabf5febb4a02e1e13316a73.jpg" alt="Laura Gorrell"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/e863dc07a23c44fb34323add59cfa5f3.jpg" alt="Laura Gorrell"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/6e5b6cbb7493aae98eac6829cd27ce01.jpg" alt="Laura Gorrell"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/54bd9beeba56098855b98186f3667490.jpg" alt="Laura Gorrell"> </div> </div> </div> <div class="end-of-story"> </div>
<p class="article-body"> When Kathleen Speca, in her fifties, was diagnosed with early osteoarthritis in her late twenties, she recognized that her knee pain would increase over the years. However, after being diagnosed and treated successfully for breast cancer through radiation treatments and long-term medication, her discomfort worsened more quickly than expected. <br> <br> In the hopes of alleviating her pain, Mrs. Speca turned to Lee M. Schmidt, MD, Director of GBMC’s Joint Center. “We first tried a conservative approach of cortisone shots and physical therapy to strengthen the muscles surrounding my knee,” Mrs. Speca explains. When the pain persisted despite the treatment, she and Dr. Schmidt discussed and agreed upon the surgical option of a total knee replacement. <br> <br> </p> <figure class="image-right"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/71868e773edbda8ba8bc451baef92d2f.jpg"> <figcaption> Whether dancing, cooking or just relaxing at home, Mrs. Speca is thankful to be pain-free. After two total knee replacements, patient Kathleen Speca is on her feet again. </figcaption> </figure> “I had the first total knee replacement surgery on my right knee on March 6, 2012, and then on my left knee on October 23, 2012. Although I was prepared for a tough recovery, I bounced back like a teenager!” she says. “There was certainly pain and discomfort, but nothing I couldn’t handle. Plus, with Dr. Schmidt’s excellent surgical technique and by strictly following my physical therapy guidelines, I was off to a speedy recovery.” <br> <br> According to Dr. Schmidt, “Every component of the joint replacement process is done at the Joint Center. Patients are evaluated by a surgeon and are given a guidebook that explains what happens each day in the hospital, how to prepare for surgery and plan for their recovery.” He adds that patients are invited to attend a class to meet the Joint Care Coordinator and become better educated about the process. <br> <br> Post-operative care is provided on Unit 58, which is tailored specifically for joint replacement patients. The team includes orthopedic nurses, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, physical and occupational therapists and discharge planning specialists, all supervised by the Joint Care Coordinator. Each patient also has a designated coach to help them prepare for surgery and assist in recovery. In addition to total joint replacement, the Center offers a full array of surgical services, including minimally invasive options and partial joint replacement surgery, in which only the arthritic portions of the joints are replaced, resulting in faster recovery. <br> <br> <blockquote> “The nurses and techs on the unit were all fabulous. The care I received from the beginning to my discharge was superb. Dr. Schmidt and the entire staff treated me like family every step of the way.” </blockquote> Mrs. Speca enjoys dancing and cooking, which had always played havoc on her knees. Even going up and down steps was extremely painful. “Now, I am better able to be on my feet for hours preparing meals for guests, and no matter what, I’ll never stop dancing,” she says. “It’s so nice not to have your knees hurt as you climb the stairs. I can keep enjoying my life as a productive person in society, continuing my career in the non-profit sector, volunteering and helping others.” <br> <br> <div class="end-of-story"> </div>
<p class="article-body"> Little Liam was born at GBMC four weeks early, weighing six pounds. He was immediately transferred to the <a href="/node/2487" target="_blank">Neonatal Intensive Care Unit</a> (NICU) because his lungs had filled with fluid and he was unable to maintain his body temperature or blood sugar. By the next morning, he had dropped to five pounds, eight ounces. The two days that Liam spent in the NICU felt like an eternity to his parents, Kurt and Gretchen. <br> </p> <figure class="image-left"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/446ddc29a6124886788dc22c1ea9f497.jpg" alt="Liam in the NICU"> </figure> Liam was Gretchen's third child, but this pregnancy was different from the others. She had miscarried twice since her last daughter was born, and every little thing filled her with anxiety. "I was constantly on edge," she said. When she learned that Liam was going to the NICU, she was devastated. In her mind, babies only went there if they had birth defects or were extremely underweight; she was incredibly concerned about her newborn’s condition. It was her mother who gave her perspective. <br> <br> Thirty-four years earlier, Gretchen had also been admitted to GBMC’s NICU — she, too, was born early and had weighed only four pounds. In 1983, the NICU was a very different place than it is today. There was significantly less technology and fewer products were available for preemies. There weren't diapers small enough for Gretchen, so her nurses had to improvise. She ended up wearing surgical masks until she was big enough to fit into infant diapers. Her mother kept reminding her "if you can make it, Liam can make it, too." <br> <br> Liam was actually one of the biggest babies in the unit. At six pounds, he was given the nickname "Chunker" by his nurses — a name that caught on in the rest of the unit. Families in the NICU often form close bonds over their shared experiences. Gretchen found this to be true even in the short time Liam was there. <br> <br> Thanks to his medical team, Liam's lungs are now free of fluid and he is at home with his family, growing stronger every day. The support from her family, the NICU team, and the other families got her through what was a frightening experience. "Everyone was truly amazing," she said, "I'm extremely grateful to the nurses and staff." <div class="container-fluid" id="gallery"> <div class="leftside-stories-wrapper full-doc-list"> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/8442c59abd2eac15bb6bbdedcb01158e.jpg" alt="Liam Blinke"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/731cf0b5f49756463a02f589674ee52e.jpg" alt="Liam Blinke"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/e230bd6ab1ab12ff773e2abd13fc8cdf.jpg" alt="Liam Blinke"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/e1086692f25946a56b2e048d97c08c21.jpg" alt="Liam Blinke"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/1d3cf20e55a2311905881b00f687174d.jpg" alt="Liam Blinke"> </div> </div> <figure class="col-md-12"> <figcaption> Some images provided by Desiree Ortman Photography </figcaption> </figure> </div> <br> Kurt and Gretchen plan to bring Liam to the <a href="http://gbmc.healthcare/5k/" target="_blank">Father's Day 5K</a> on June 17, held every year to raise funds for the NICU. They look forward to reuniting with the staff members who cared for him when he was so vulnerable. This year’s Father’s Day 5K is especially important because the funds are going towards a <a href="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/a0eecc7886614d29c16fa78f333df9bf.pdf" target="_blank">new NICU</a>! One of the most exciting things about the new space is that each room will feature a Kangaroo Chair. These chairs, designed specifically for GBMC’s NICU, promote skin-to-skin contact and early breastfeeding, both of which are critical to improving development. The chair’s design was based on input from those who know best — NICU parents and nurses! We hope to see you at this incredible event! <a href="http://gbmc.healthcare/5k/" target="_blank">Click here to register!</a> <br> <br> <figure class="image-full" style="float:none;"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/e24abb440c3465276d70eaf672e82727.jpg" alt="Liam Blinke"> </figure> <br> <div class="end-of-story"> </div>
<p class="article-body"> In 2007, Bruce Bradshaw, 70, discovered a lump on the side of his throat that he knew should not have been there. He went to his primary care physician to have it checked out and then had an ultrasound performed to get a better look. What they found was a malignant tumor on the base of Mr. Bradshaw’s tongue. He describes a whirlwind of events that landed him in the care of Marshall Levine, MD, medical oncologist at GBMC’s Sandra & Malcolm Berman Cancer Institute, and Ray Blanco, MD and John Saunders, MD [retired], head and neck surgeons in the Milton J. Dance, Jr. Head and Neck Center at GBMC. The daunting diagnosis was made in January 2007 and in March and April of that same year, Mr. Bradshaw was undergoing a powerful course of chemoradiation therapy at GBMC to eradicate the tumor and the cancer itself. In July 2007, He underwent surgery to have his lymph nodes removed on the side of his neck where the tumor was located by Dr. Blanco. And, while the treatment and surgery were successful in eliminating the cancer, Mr. Bradshaw was left with some debilitating and rare side effects of radiation treatment. <br> <br> “I was one of only a few patients who experienced the closing of my esophagus as an extreme side effect of the radiation therapy,” explained Mr. Bradshaw. Mr. Bradshaw had 18 dilations performed by his surgeons to open up his esophagus over the course of a year. While the dilations worked temporarily, Mr. Bradshaw experienced the closure of his esophagus repeatedly following his treatment, causing extreme discomfort and resulting in the placement of a feeding tube because of his inability to eat or swallow. “The chemo and radiation got rid of the tumor. That was the easy part,” said Mr. Bradshaw. “The subsequent swallowing issues were the hardest part. I certainly don’t recommend this as a weight loss solution!” he joked. <br> <br> Mr. Bradshaw praises the work of the Dance Center team, particularly Barbara Messing, M.A., CCC-SLP, BCS-S, Administrative-Clinical Director of the Milton J. Dance, Jr. Head and Neck Center. “I can’t say enough about Barbara. In the beginning, I was on a feeding tube and couldn’t swallow at all. She was patient and encouraging as she taught me exercises that helped me recover the ability to swallow over time. Ten years later, I’m still doing the exercises! She gave me all the confidence in the world. Without her, I don’t think I would have made it. I could call and talk to her whenever I needed her and she was there for me.” <br> <br> Mr. Bradshaw’s head and neck cancer journey certainly changed his life, and so did his experience at The Dance Center at GBMC. “Everyone at the Dance Center was just great. The way everyone worked together as a team was incredible. I have all the praise in the world for them.” <br> <br> He added, “Initially, when I was told I had advanced stage three cancer, I didn’t think I’d make it. But I’m here 10 years later. I’m still alive.” </p> <div class="end-of-story"> </div>
<p class="article-body"> Kevin Murphy spent much of his life in and around airplanes. He fixed them, flew in them, and sometimes, dropped supplies out of them. He loved it, but his weight grounded him...literally. Kevin was in the U.S. military for most of his life, and went on several overseas tours throughout his 33 years of service. Although he was incredibly dedicated to his work, he often felt held back by his weight. <br> <br> He was always in what he described as "the fat boy program" because he was not within the Air Force's required weight range. He was regularly weighed and counseled on health and fitness. Despite this, he never lost enough weight to be in the required range and he eventually developed diabetes. Kevin’s weight got so out of control that he no longer felt comfortable flying and took on a more administrative role. Having to stay on the ground was a discouraging and very visible consequence of his weight, both to him and to his fellow service members. <br> <br> Kevin fell into a depression and began experiencing severe anxiety; he turned to food for comfort. "It was like I was eating the last supper every night," he said. The more he ate, the more weight he gained. The more weight he gained, the more depressed he became. The more depressed he became, the more he turned to food for comfort. <br> <br> </p> <div class="container-fluid" id="gallery"> <div class="leftside-stories-wrapper full-doc-list"> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/ff0b82a05d2572a0bc8145f9d942f0f2.jpg" alt="Kevin Murphy"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/0fc6362706ebb36bd8c632b38cd95858.jpg" alt="Kevin Murphy"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/3b9cb14d03be74f58288b56056f4e08f.jpg" alt="Kevin Murphy"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/da8a68093fe184633fcc0ab3b445bb54.jpg" alt="Kevin Murphy"> </div> </div> </div> <br> After years of unsuccessful attempts to lose weight, he decided to consider the option of weight-loss surgery. He had been aware of bariatric surgery for some time, but he was hesitant to take that step for himself. When he was introduced to Dr. Elizabeth Dovec, bariatric surgeon and medical director of GBMC’s <a href="/node/2332" target="_blank">Comprehensive Obesity Management Program</a> (COMP), he was immediately put at ease and decided to move forward. <br> <br> Kevin had bariatric surgery when he was 60-years-old and has lost almost 100 pounds since the procedure in 2014. His diabetes is under control and he is in a much better place with his mental health. Almost everything about his life is different. He went from avoiding gyms like the plague to actively seeking them out and going three to four times a week. He is very involved in COMP and has spoken at several weight-loss information sessions. He can often be found volunteering and participating in COMP events. <br> <br> <div class="container-fluid" id="gallery"> <div class="leftside-stories-wrapper full-doc-list"> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/d6e098dfb9da4c9afb486e539a002132.jpg" alt="Kevin Murphy"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/e4f51dfa12d7b43c9694ecb46eb7d230.jpg" alt="Kevin Murphy"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/b9393e16e0c9125371ba8eea3193d663.jpg" alt="Kevin Murphy"> </div> <div class="gallery-image"> <img src="/sites/default/files/hg_features/hg_post/7d5ad4cde04f906fed959e80b22991e4.jpg" alt="Kevin Murphy"> </div> </div> </div> <br> Kevin feels better than ever and is doing things he never thought he could. He has never looked back. <div class="end-of-story"> </div>
<p class="article-body"> When Taylor* arrived at GBMC's Emergency Department, she was in a state of shock. As she was leaving for work that morning, a man that she didn't know forced his way into her house and sexually assaulted her. After hearing her story, Taylor’s nurse immediately contacted the on-call Sexual Assault Forensic Examination (SAFE) nurse, Sara Hein. <br> <br> Once Taylor had been medically cleared, Sara led her to a private room, separate from the busy Emergency Department, where she recounted the events of her morning. After her attacker assaulted her, he took pictures of her body, forced her to shower, and threatened to kill her. <br> <br> The first thing that struck Sara was that the man had made Taylor shower, a surefire way to get rid of physical evidence. It made her think that this wasn't his first time assaulting a woman and she was worried that there wouldn't be any DNA evidence left to test. Despite her concerns, Sara kept her composure and completed her examination. She took Taylor’s clothing to send to the Baltimore County Crime Lab and provided her with a new outfit to go home in. Just four hours after the attack, Taylor walked with Sara back to the Emergency Department and into the arms of her family members who were there waiting for her. <br> <br> Several months later, Sara was surprised to learn that she had been issued a court subpoena for Taylor’s case. She had thought that there wouldn't be any evidence left to test, so it was encouraging to know that there had been a DNA hit. As the court date drew nearer however, Sara got a call saying that additional information had been found and that the date had been pushed back to allow for further investigation. <br> <br> Many postponements and almost two years later, the case finally went to court. The evidence she had collected from Taylor contained DNA that matched the suspect and also linked him to another assault from several years earlier. After three months in court, the man was given two life sentences without the chance of parole and an additional 10 years for breaking and entering. <br> <br> Two and a half years after Taylor’s assault, justice was finally served to her attacker. Sara marveled at Taylor’s persistence and courage throughout the many postponements and the trial itself. Because Taylor refused to back down, a serial rapist was taken off the streets and will never again be able to prey on women in the community. <br> <br> <em>*Patient name has been changed</em> </p> <div class="end-of-story"> </div>
