AN F0R Y0UR HEARTElectricianElectricianElectricianElectrician

Y0UR health

Spring 2013

SEMINARS & EVENTS 12

QUICK EASTER BRUNCH 32 MIllIoN BRAIN CEllS A MINUTE 8

2 Your HealtH. our Mission.

1600 Prairie Center ParkwayBrighton, CO 80601www.pvmc.org

pvmc.org/blog

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Your Health. Our Mission. is published by Platte Valley Medical Center. This publication in no way seeks to serve as a substitute for professional medical care. Consult your physician before undertaking any form of medical treatment or adopting any exercise program or dietary guidelines. Send comments, questions and suggestions to cweis@pvmc.org.

Charmaine WeisEDITOR

Tom GilboywRITER/DESIGNER

Evelyn WiantwRITER/EDITOR

© 2013 Platte Valley Medical Center

Dear friends and family,If you’re anything like me, you’re eager to get outside to enjoy the upcoming spring weather. Before you do, don’t forget to take care of a few details inside. March 10 is the beginning of daylight savings time, which is also a reminder to change your smoke and carbon monoxide detector batteries. This 10-minute precaution may not only save your life, but could lead you to a restful night’s sleep since a low battery inevitably chirps at 1 a.m.

Did you know that even though colon cancer is a silent disease, it is one of the few cancers you can stop before it begins? Learn more on page 6 and save the date for Dr. Walker’s Colon & Acid Reflux talk March 20.

To save the best for last would be an understatement. Turn to page 10 and learn how our recent investment in new equipment enables us to perform advanced cardiac procedures here in Brighton. Together with our Stroke Center (page 8), we believe we’re assembling one of the most advanced community hospitals in Colorado.

Sincerely,

John R. Hicks President/ CEO

Returning to Work & Breastfeeding

Colorectal Cancer: The Silent Disease

PVMC’s Stroke Center

5 6

8 10

You can still make good on your New Year’s Resolution

Poison Prevention WeekMarch 17–23

3 4This issue…

Our cover Christopher S. Stees, D.O., FACC of High Plains Heart & Vascular Center

An Electrician for Your Heart

3pvmc.org

THE TW0-H0lIDAY MINglE

REMEMBER NEW YEAR’S DAY WHEN YoU THoUgHT YoU MIgHT start throwing on your sneakers and begin walking every day? When you set a goal of eating less saturated fat and sodium? Well now it’s almost Easter and your walk has deteriorated into trundling from the parking lot to the office front door and back and you barely remember the lower-fat and sodium menus you’d planned. Lucky for you, those New Year’s holiday intentions can be easily infused into a fabulously healthy Easter holiday. Take, for example, the traditional Easter ham, now available in reduced-sodium versions and ready to take center-stage on your table. Lamb-lovers will be pleased to know that a moderate-sized serving is considered lean and a good source of omega 3 fatty acids. Try lightening up your potato side dish with reduced-sodium chicken stock and fat-free milk instead of half & half and loads of butter. Deviled eggs can be just as delicious if you trade out some of the yolks for silken tofu. (http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ellie-krieger/devilish-eggs-recipe/index.html) A green salad with a flavorful vinaigrette accompanied by grilled or lightly steamed vegetables rounds out a meal any New Year’s goal-setter would be proud of.

Of course, dessert and Easter baskets are part and parcel of most family celebrations at this holiday. But those too can be healthier without sacrificing taste. Cakes are still wonderful when some or all of the oil is substituted with unsweetened applesauce. Or, how about strawberry shortcakes with more berries than cake and a wisp of whipped cream?

Kids get in on the healthy strategies when, besides a limited number of well-chosen candies, you fill their baskets with age-appropriate toys—try jacks, small containers of Play-Doh®, bouncy balls, hacky sacks, blowing bubbles, or Silly String®.

By Easter, daylight savings time will have started, so you’ll still be able to get in an invigorating walk after all the festivities, making Easter the perfect occasion for your new, New Year. n

CYNTHIA FoSTER, R.D., CDE is a registered dietician and certified diabetes educator at Platte Valley Medi-cal Center. If you have a nutrition question or would like to join the next diabetes education class, you can reach Cynthia at (303) 498-1690 or cfoster@pvmc.org.

QUICK EASTER BRUNCH IDEA Make this lower fat version

of a french toast casserole the night before so the bread has a

chance to absorb all the liquid. The next morning, pop it in the oven

and you’ll have brunch in 45 minutes. This gives you time to watch

the kids hunt for Easter eggs. — PVMC Chef Mike Anderson

IngredIenTSCooking spray1 baguette (7 oz) cut into 1-inch cubes 7 large eggs 8 large egg whites 2 cups unsweetened almond milk 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/3 cup pure maple syrup 2 cups fresh blueberries 1/3 cup sliced almonds

2 tablespoons dark brown sugar

EllIE KRIEgER’S BlUEBERRY AlMoND FRENCH ToAST BAKE

Per SerVing: Calories: 257.5 Total Fat: 8.5 g

Cholesterol: 161.8 mg Sodium: 395.6 mg Total Carbs: 29.4 g

Dietary Fiber: 1.7 g Protein: 13.4 g

dIreCTIOnS Spray a 9 x 13-inch baking pan with cooking spray. Arrange the

bread in a single layer in the baking pan. Whisk together the eggs, egg whites, milk, vanilla, cinnamon and maple

syrup. Pour the egg mixture over the bread in the pan, spreading it around so the liquid saturates the bread. Scatter blueberries evenly on top and sprinkle with the almonds and brown sugar. Cover and refrigerate overnight.

Preheat oven to 350°. Uncover baking pan and bake for 40–50 minutes. Serve warm, cold, or at room temperature. SerVeS 8.

Source: foodnetwork.com

A sidenote: No rabbits were harmed

in the making of this article. Our bunny’s make-up artist

was Photoshop.

by Cynthia Foster, R.D., CDE

4 Your HealtH. our Mission.

SPRINg F0RWARDSWAP0UT

WE KNoW YoU’RE BUSY, AND WE All FoRgET to check the batteries in our smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. So why wait until they start chirping in the middle of the night? Change your batteries when you change your clocks for daylight Savings on Sunday, March 10.

PoISoN PREVENTIoNDID YoU KNoW CHIlDREN UNDER 6 ARE MoST lIKElY To BE PoISoNED BY SWAlloWINg THE SMAll DISC BATTERIES PoWERINg MANY CoMMoN DEVICES?

Over half of the batteries were swallowed immediately after removal from the device. Poison Prevention Week is March 17–23, but poison prevention is something to think about every day. Children of all ages depend on parents and guardians to provide a safe environment; following these simple tips can help keep your children safe from accidental poisonings.

CHIlDREN oF ANY AgE

• Adults should model safe use of products and medicines: use them for their intended purpose only, and follow label instructions for selection, use and disposal.

• Store medicines and household products in their original containers. Do not transfer to food or beverage containers.

• Store medicines and food in a different place from household products and chemicals.

• Call the Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222 immediately if poisoning is suspected.

CHIlDREN UNDER 6• Use child-resistant closures on medicines and

household products. Re-secure after each use.

• Lock medicines and household products out of sight and reach of children.

• Call medicine by its proper name; do not refer to medicine as “candy.”

• Be sure each adult knows who is administering medicine to each child. Develop a method to ensure that children are not given overdoses.

• When changing out dead batteries, dispose of button (disc) batteries immediately. These are commonly found in remote control devices, calculators, watches, hearing aids, handheld games, clocks, and key chains. Do not allow children under six to play with these items.

• Do not allow small children to play with toys containing magnets, or magnetic items.

SCHool-AgED CHIlDREN AND ADolESCENTS• Before allowing children to self-medicate or

have access to over-the-counter and prescription medicines, be certain that they know exactly how to take medicines safely.

• Before allowing children to use household products, be certain they understand label instructions for safe use. n

5pvmc.org

RETURNINg To WoRK & Breastfeeding

FAITH MCgINN, RN, IBClC is a board-certified lactation consultant and childbirth educator at Platte Valley Medical Center. If you have a breastfeeding question, you can reach her at (303) 498-3415.

To learn more about breast pump models and options, check out pvmc.org/blog.

oNE oF THE MoST FREQUENT QUESTIoNS I hear when teaching childbirth classes is: how do I return to work while I’m breastfeeding? Did you know that Colorado law protects your baby’s right to have your milk when you return to work? It requires employers to give you breaks to express milk for your baby, and a private suitable space other than the restroom.

There are many benefits of making milk for your baby when you go back to work, they include:

• Feeling connected to your baby even when you are apart.

• Having a healthier baby, which means you take fewer sick days off work

• Saving money

The first place to begin is by choosing a breast pump. It may be stressful to think about spending money on a breast pump until you realize that it’s cheaper than formula (formula costs about $200 per month). In addition, many insurance companies now pay for breast pumps thanks to the Affordable Care Act. If you participate in the Federal Women, Infants, and Children WIC program, they may be able to help you get a no-cost pump.

Here’s what you need to make breast-feeding work at work:

1. Break time for pumping—15 minutes or so, approximately every 3–4 hours;

2. A private, clean space for pumping— a small room or curtained area will do, just not the restroom;

3. Support of your managers and co-workers—flexibility, back-up when needed, and understanding.

Here is a typical routine to help you plan your day:

BEFoRE WoRK• nurse your baby.

• Pull stored milk out of fridge for baby’s caregiver today.

• grab clean bottles and pump parts out of dish rack.

• Take two ice packs out of freezer— place one with baby’s milk; one in with empty bottles you will bring to work.

• grab your pump, baby, milk, and you’re ready to go.

AT WoRK• Pump 10 to 15 minutes on a morning

break.

• Your milk is good for 8 hours on the counter, or 24 hours on ice (7 days in the fridge).

• Put the expressed milk in your kit with your ice pack (no need for a fridge).

• Wrap your pump parts in paper towel and save for later.

• At lunch, pump again, and store your milk.

AT HoME• Put milk away in the fridge or freezer.

• Put ice packs in freezer.

• Take oldest milk out of freezer if needed, and put in fridge to thaw for tomorrow.

• rinse pump parts in soapy water, put on dish rack.

• rePeAT dAILY

WHEN SHoUlD I START PUMPINg?After your baby is born, your first two weeks should be spent enjoying her, and not worrying about pumping. You should feed your baby as often as possible, letting her place her order for milk, so you have milk to spare later.

After two weeks, you may start pumping once or twice a day to build up a stash of milk in your freezer. In the beginning you will produce very little milk, but the more you pump, the more you will make. It should never hurt when you express milk.

If babies use approximately one ounce per hour they are away from you, a baby might take in 24 to 30 ounces of milk in a whole day. If you make 2 ounces of milk each time you pump, in two weeks, you will have a day’s supply of milk put away, so you have less pressure when you first go back to work.

Breastfeeding is special for so many reasons – the joy of bonding with your baby, the cost savings, and the related health benefits. If you have specific questions or would like help developing a personal plan to return to work while breastfeeding, please call (303) 498-3415.

by Faith McGinn, RN, IBCLC

6 Your HealtH. our Mission.

3rd MoST CoMMoNlY

DIAgNoSED CANCER IN THE UNITED STATES

Known as the “silent disease,” colorectal cancer exhibits no symptoms in its early stages. Yet did you know that it is one of the few cancers that can be prevented before it begins? That’s why it’s important to schedule regular screenings. In many cases, screening tests can find colorectal cancer at an early stage to greatly increase a person’s chance of survival.

UNDERSTANDINg CANCERCancer begins in cells, the building blocks that make up tissues. Tissues make up the organs of the body. Normally, cells grow and divide to form new cells as the body needs them. When cells grow old, they die, and new cells take their place.

Sometimes this process goes wrong and old cells do not die when they should. When this happens, the extra “old” cells can form a mass of tissue called a growth or tumor.*

Cancer cells can break away from a malignant tumor and spread to other parts of the body. Cancer cells spread by entering the bloodstream or the

lymphatic system. The cancer cells form new tumors that damage other organs. The spread of cancer is called metastasis.

When colorectal cancer spreads outside the colon or rectum, cancer cells are often found in nearby lymph nodes. If cancer cells have reached these nodes, they may also have spread to other lymph nodes or other organs. Colorectal cancer cells most often spread to the liver.

When cancer spreads from its original place to another part of the body, the new tumor has the same kind of abnormal cells and the same name as the original tumor. For example, if colorectal cancer spreads to the liver, the cancer cells in the liver are actually colorectal cancer cells. The disease

is metastatic colorectal cancer, not liver cancer. For that reason, it is treated as colorectal cancer, not liver cancer. Doctors call the new tumor “distant”

or metastatic disease.Colon cancer is

tricky because patients can often go without symptoms for many years until the disease has progressed into the later stages. This is why it is important to be on the lookout for symptoms. Because when it is caught in time, you can completely recover from colon cancer as it is one of the most preventable cancers and one of the few you can actually stop before it begins. n

Experiencing any of these symptoms?* See your doctor right away.> Change in bowel habits,

such as diarrhea and constipation lasting more than a few days

> Blood in your stool

> Frequent gas pains, bloating, fullness, or cramps

> Feeling that your bowel does not empty completely

> Constant tiredness or weakness

> Unexplained weight loss

* These symptoms may be caused by conditions other than cancer.

The Silent Disease

Sourcesabout.com MedActionPlan.comColon Cancer Alliance – ccalliance.org National Cancer Institute – cancer.govAmerican Cancer Society – cancer.org

EVERY 3 MINUTES SoMEoNE IN THE U.S. IS DIAgNoSED WITH

ColoRECTAl CANCER

143,000 AMERICANS WIll BE DIAgNoSED WITH ColoRECTAl CANCER THIS YEAR.

FoRTUNATElY IT’S oNE oF THE FEW YoU CAN SToP BEFoRE IT STARTS.

*

7

A FREE event brought to you by Platte Valley Medical Center. Did you know Colorectal Cancer is the 4th leading cause of cancer death in the U.S. today? In honor of National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, we’re teaming up with Gastroenterologist Bruce walker, M.D. The evening includes a Q&A session about taking care of your digestive and colon health, including tips for dealing with acid reflux, followed by a tour of PVMC’s state-of-the- art Endoscopy Center. Refreshments and snacks will be served.

wednesday, March 20 6-7 p.m.Platte Valley Medical Center Conference Center

HEAlTH SEMINAR SERIES: ColoN CANCER & ACID REFlUX

20MAR

Dr. WAlker of rocky Mountain Gastroenterology Associates is a board-certifed gastro-enterologist at Platte Valley Medical Center.

RSVP NoW (303) 498-1481 pvmc.org/rsvp

He is devoted to the care of patients with digestive tract diseases and disorders.

The Silent DiseaseWith over 775,000 apps available in Apple’s iTunes App Store, it’s no wonder The Colonoscopy Guide: What to Expect was invented. A free application developed by MedActionPlan.com, Colonoscopy Guide educates people about the importance of a colonoscopy and what to expect before, during, and after the exam. User-friendly text, imagery, animations, and interactivity help you learn as much as you can about your colonoscopy procedure.

There’s an app for that too? There’s an app for that too?

8 Your HealtH. our Mission.

EVERY 40 SEC0NDS S0MEoNE IN THE UNITED STATES HAS A STR0KE and every 4 minutes someone dies from a stroke. Stroke is a leading cause of death and serious long-term disability. Your chances of walking out of the hospital with little to no disability are greatly improved if you receive appropriate treatments quickly.

Unfortunately, it takes the average American 12 to 24 hours to get to the hospital after experiencing the first stroke symptom. So it’s important you recognize stroke symptoms and know how to respond.

FACE: Ask the person to smile. Do both sides of the face move equally? (Normal) Or does one side of the face not move at all? (Abnormal) ARM: Ask the person to raise both arms. Do both arms move equally? (Normal) Or does one arm drift downward compared to the other? (Abnormal) SPEECH: Ask the person to speak a simple sentence. Does the person use correct words with no slurring? (Normal) Or do they slur their speech, use inappropriate words or is unable to speak at all? (Abnormal) TIME: to call 911 immediately if you observe any of these symptoms. Every minute matters!

Remember — a brain attack warrants the same emergency response as a heart attack.

Wondering if it’s a stroke? Think F.A.S.T. Time is fading. CAll 911 N0W.

STROKE is an emergency.Every minute counts.ACT F.A.S.T!

Have the ambulance go to the nearest stroke center.

FACE

ARM

SPEECH

TIME

Uneven smile?Facial droop?Arm numbness?Arm weakness?

Slurred speech?Difficulty speaking or understanding?Call 9- 1- 1 immediately!

FACE(cara)

ARM(brazo)

SPEECH(habla)

TIME(tiempo)

Sonrisa dispareja

Un lado de la cara

más caído

Entumecimiento

del brazoDebilidad en el brazo

Hablar arrastrando

las palabras

Dificultad para hablar

o comprender

Llame al 9-1-1de inmediato

EL INFARTO CEREBRAL es una emergencia

Cada minuto cuenta

¡Actúe rápido siguiendo

la guía F.A.S.T!

Diríjase con la ambulancia al

centro especializado en infartos

cerebrales más cercano.

lEARN F.A.S.T. — THE FACE, ARMS, SPEECH TEST

9pvmc.org

2,ooo,ooo BRAIN CEllS ARE l0ST EVERY MINUTE. The earlier a stroke is recognized and the patient receives medical attention, the greater chance of recovery. Strokes occur when a blood vessel carrying oxygen and vital nutrients to the brain is either blocked by a clot or ruptures. This deprives the brain of blood and oxygen, destroying millions of valuable brain cells within minutes. Every minute matters—from the moment symptoms become noticeable to the time treatment is received, lost brain cells lead to loss of function.

ToP STR0KE CARE IS N0W AVAIlABlE AT PVMC IN BRIgHT0N. Our expert Stroke Center offers fast, accurate, and high-quality emergency services by a team of stroke specialists led by Neurologist Rai Kakkar, M.D. Advanced technology, including state-of-the-art Medical Imaging, rapidly identifies strokes so that appropriate treatments can improve chances of recovery.

MAY IS STR0KE AWARNESS MoNTH. lEARN MoRE AT PVMC.oRg.

Remember — a brain attack warrants the same emergency response as a heart attack.

Wondering if it’s a stroke? Think F.A.S.T. Time is fading. CAll 911 N0W.

lEARN F.A.S.T. — THE FACE, ARMS, SPEECH TEST

Every minute matters.38 min Ft. lupton to Northern Colorado Medical Center in greeley 21 min Ft. lupton to PVMC in Brighton 22 min Reunion to University Hospital in Aurora15 min Reunion to PVMC in Brighton

If administered quickly, stroke medicine can greatly improve your chance of survival and recovery.

10 Your HealtH. our Mission.

arry wasn’t feeling well. He had an abnormally high pulse rate and an irregular heartbeat,

which was making him extremely tired. After a visit with his cardiolo-gist, Barry learned he had a condition known as atrial fibrillation or afib.

When afib happens, the smaller chambers of the heart flutter rapidly and unevenly, causing the patient to feel short of breath, fatigue and lack of stamina, as well as chest pain, pressure or discomfort. The patient may also be able to feel their heart beating; think about your day to day and you may realize how seldom you are aware of your own heart beating.

“Although afib can be treated with medicines, some arrhythmic medica-tions can become toxic over time,” said Mark Baker, manager of Platte Valley Medical Center’s cardiac cath lab.

To help patients like Barry receive cardiac care close to home, PVMC

purchased new equipment to perform advanced heart procedures.

The new electrophysiology equip-ment allows physicians like Dr. Chris-topher Stees, D.O., FACC, of High Plains Heart and Vascular Center to perform procedures never before avail-able at PVMC. Dr. Stees has a special emphasis in cardiac electrophysiology, which essentially makes him a “heart electrician.” Dr. Stees’ job is to identify and treat patients with abnormal heart rhythms, and then fix those abnormali-ties either through drug treatment or surgery.

To address Barry’s condition, Dr. Stees chose to use the new equip-ment to perform PVMC’s first cardiac electrophysiology surgery, a procedure known as an Atrio-ventricular Nodal Ablation. In the heart, the atrio-ventricular node, or AV node, is an electrical pathway that connects the top chambers to the bottom chambers.

The equipment in Platte Valley Medical Center’s Cardiac Catheterization Lab provides physicians with fast, precise images of the heart for diagnosing and treating blockages in the coronary arteries, treating rhythm disturbances in the heart, and diagnosing and treating peripheral vascular disease.

B

New equipment now enables physicians to perform advanced cardiac procedures

at PVMC in Brighton.

AN F0R Y0UR HEARTElectricianElectricianElectricianElectrician

11pvmc.org

When the AV node is working correctly, both sides of the heart beat simultaneous-ly, and at a regular rate. In Barry’s case, his heart was not allowing the chambers to fill fully before pumping the blood into his body.

uring this procedure, Dr. Stees made a “pocket” in Barry’s chest and placed

the pacemaker inside. The particular pacemaker that Barry received is very small. “Only about the size of a half-dollar,” said Barry. Next, he ran leads into Barry’s heart; these leads perform a similar function to the electrical wires in a common house. After placing the pace-maker, Barry was allowed a few weeks for his body to adjust to the leads, and then the AV Node Ablation was performed. During this procedure, Dr. Stees cauter-ized Barry’s AV node, causing an inter-ruption in the electrical signal that causes his heart to beat. The AV node was then unable to tell the heart to beat, correctly

or incorrectly, and the pacemaker took over. The pacemaker now sends electri-cal signals into Barry’s heart to regulate his heart beat and force his heart to beat normally.

The AV Node Ablation is a short pro-cedure. “It took only about 45 minutes,” said Barry. “I think the prep took longer than the surgery.”

Barry had no complications during or after the surgery and is recovering well. Dr. Stees said that Barry will continue to improve as time goes by. According to Barry, his friends have noticed an improvement in his stamina and appearance. “They think I look better,” he said. Barry also stated that although he cannot feel the pacemaker working, it is a strange sensation to touch his skin and feel the device.

Since the equipment was purchased, Mark Baker notes, the number of pacemakers installed at the hospital has doubled. “This time [February] last year,

I think we had placed two pacemakers,” said Baker. “In the first two months of this year, we’ve already performed eight pacemaker procedures.” According to Baker, the new equipment means that electrophysiology studies and other types of ablation procedures can be performed locally.

“Having this equipment here means most patients do not have to be trans-ferred to other hospitals,” said Baker. “The procedure and recovery can take place closer to home.”

Dr. Stees agrees. “Now that we can provide cardiac electrophysiology services, we are excited to take care of more patients in their own hospital.” n

To learn more about Dr. Stees and High Plains Heart and Vasacular Center, visit hphvc.com or call (303) 659-7000.

D

12 Your HealtH. our Mission.

Spring Seminars, Classes & Events: Great for Your Health

Childbirth Classes WoMEN’S & NEWBoRN CENTER FREE ToURSWhen: March 13, 27; April 10, 24;

May 8, 22 Time: 6:00 p.m. Where: Meet in the hospital lobby by the fireplace Price: Free, by appointment. Tour size is limited.

Call: (303) 498-3518 to register

FAST TRACK PREPARED CHIlDBIRTH SERIESThis one-day class is designed to acquaint you and your coach with the labor and birthing process through interactive discussions and with the aid of handouts, posters, and videos. relaxation, breathing, and comfort techniques for a natu-ral labor and birth are practiced. Please bring two pillows to class. Pain management options are also reviewed.When: March 2, April 13, May 4 Time: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Where: Conference rooms A & B Price: $75 Call: (303) 498-3518 to register BREASTFEEDINg BASICSLearn the basics of breastfeeding, such as positioning, latching on, nipple care, and breast milk supply. Board-certified lactation special-ists also discuss how moms can incorporate returning to work while breastfeeding. Partners are wel-come and encouraged to attend.When: March 14, April 11, May 9 Time: 6:00 – 8:30 p.m. Where: Conference room A Price: $40 Call: (303) 498-3518 to register

PRENATAl PIlATESexercise is extremely important during pregnancy. In fact, many women who exercise during pregnancy report better mood and sleep patterns, increased endur-ance for labor and delivery, and more rapid postpartum weight loss. during class, you will learn the fundamentals of safe exercise, proper alignment, and breathing/relaxation techniques while build-ing core stability and total body strength and flexibility.When: every Tuesday Time: 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. Where: Physical Therapy gym (in the medical office building adjacent to the hospital) Price: $11/class or $100/10-class punch card Instructor: Karen Vizyak, licensed physical therapist and certified Pilates instructor. Call: (303) 498-1840 to register

lACTATIoN PRogRAM & BREASTFEEDINg SUPPoRTBreastfeeding is special for so many reasons – the joy of bonding with your baby, the cost savings, and the related health benefits. Along with these benefits, chal-lenges are sometimes prevalent. If you have specific questions or want to schedule an appointment, call (303) 498-3415.

BABY BASICSThis class helps you set realistic expectations for your baby’s first months and provides information and hands-on practice with bath-ing, diapering, cord/circumcision care. This class covers your baby’s first days of life, feeding, diapering, bathing, and baby care basics, and SIdS risks, safe sleeping, and safe car seat use.When: March 7, April 18, May 23 Time: 6:00 – 8:30 p.m. Where: Conference room A Price: $40 Call: (303) 498-3518 to register

Support GroupsCANCER SUPPoRT gRoUPWhen: March 9 & 12, April 13 & 27, May 11 & 25 Time: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Where: Oncology Clinic (Suite 270 of the medical office building adjacent to the hospital) Price: Free Call: (303) 498-2200 to register STRoKE SUPPoRT gRoUPWhen: March 4, April 1, May 6 Time: 1:30 – 3:00 p.m. Where: Conference Center Price: Free Call: (303) 498-1840 to register CoNgESTIVE HEART FAIlURE SUPPoRT gRoUPWhen: Times and dates to be announced Price: Free Call: (303) 659-7000 for more information

AN “AH HA” MoMENT can take place anywhere – from a blood test result at the 9Health Fair to learning the secrets of breastfeeding in a childbirth class. Your health matters to us, which is why we offer a vast array of learning opportunities where you can manage your wellness, improve your fitness, learn life-enhancing basics, and surround yourself with support.

(Ask about our multi-class discount.)

13pvmc.org

Exercise & Wellness YogAWhen: Tuesdays: 4:45 – 5:20 p.m. Thursdays: 12:15 – 12:50 p.m. Where: Conference Center Price: $6 drop-in fee or $58 for a 10-class punch card Call: (303) 498-1840 to register PIlATESWhen: Thursdays Time: 5:15 – 6:00 p.m. Where: Conference Center Price: $9/class or $80 for 10-class punch card Call: (303) 498-1840 to register HEART RHYTHM MEDITATIoNCome join us in a heart-centered meditation where we become more conscious of our breath and heartbeat. Heart rhythm meditation is a path to health and wellness, healing, and peace.When: Wednesdays: March 6 & 20, April 3 & 17, May 1 & 15 Time: 12:30 – 1:00 p.m. Where: Meditation room/Chapel Price: Free

READY, SET, QUIT. YoU CAN BE ToBACCo FREEWe offer a free smoking cessation information class for individuals who are ready to break the habit once and for all. The sessions are taught by hospital respiratory therapists and include resources to begin your smoke-free journey.When: Information Session: May 2 Time: 5:30 – 7:00 p.m. Where: Conference room C Price: Free Call: (303) 498-2190 to register

DIABETES BASICS AND NUTRITIoN ClASSWhen: March 9, May 4, June 8 Time: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Where: Conference room C Price: depends on your insurance plan Call: (303) 498-1699 to register* (*a physician referral is required)

ToTAl JoINT UNIVERSITY Total Joint University (TJU) is for patients who are scheduled for, or contemplating, a joint replacement procedure. TJU is designed to provide you with all the information you need regarding pre-op, day of surgery, your hospital stay and recovery, so that you can proceed with confidence.When: March 12, April 9, May 14 Time: 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. Where: Conference Center Price: Free Call: (303) 498-1840 to register

Seminar Series & Special Events BoNFIlS BlooD DRIVEWhen: March 8, May 10 Time: 10:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Where: Conference Center Price: Free – every pint you donate can help up to 3 people! Call: (303) 363-2300 or

www.donors.bonfils.org to register (use site code 5489)

DIgESTIVE HEAlTH: ColoN & ACID REFlUX When: March 20 Time: 6:00 p.m. Where: Conference Center Price: Free Call: (303) 498-1481 or pvmc.org/rsvp to register JoINT HEAlTH: “HAPPY FEET” When: March 28 Time: 6:00 p.m. Where: Conference Center Price: Free Call: (303) 498-1481 or pvmc.org/rsvp to register 9HEAlTH FAIR When: April 13 Time: 7:00 a.m. – noon Where: Main entrance Price: Free & low cost Screenings Visit: www.9healthfair.org or pvmc.org/events STRoKE FAIR When: May 4 Time: 9:00 a.m. – noonWhere: Conference Center Price: Free Call: (303) 498-1481 or pvmc.org/rsvp to register NEURo HEAlTH: STRoKE AWARENESS SEMINAR When: May 15 Time: 6:00 p.m. Where: Conference Center Price: Free Call: (303) 498-1481 or pvmc.org/rsvp to register

Spring Seminars, Classes & Events: Great for Your HealthHere’s our Spring Schedule for upcoming events at Platte Valley Medical Center. Events are subject to change, visit pvmc.org/events for the latest course descriptions and event information.

14 Your HealtH. our Mission.

Your good health is our top priority. We have recently joined an elite

group of facilities across the country that share an important commitment

to raising the standard of care for every patient. We are proud to be recognized

as a certified Pink Ribbon Facility.

As a Pink Ribbon Facility we take pride in providing every woman with

a softer, warmer mammogram by using MammoPad, a soft foam pad

that serves as a cushion between you and the most sophisticated digital

mammography equipment. Now you can relax knowing your mammogram

will be a warmer and more comfortable experience.

If a warmer, more comfortablemammogram sounds appealing,

then we invite you to visit us.

FullpgColor_Mammogram_Ad 1R_Layout 1 9/26/11 10:15 AM Page 1

A FREE event brought to you by Platte Valley Medical Center. Takes steps toward finding relief for your chronic foot or ankle pain. Join Dr. Haffner as he discusses the latest approaches to addressing athletes’ foot and ankle injuries, plus current treatments for everything from arthritis to bunions. Attend and be entered to win a $300 orthotic or a 30-minute foot massage treatment. Refreshments and snacks will be served.

Dr. HAFFNer of Mountain View Orthopedics specializes in reconstructive foot and ankle surgery, including total ankle replacements and diabetic limb salvage. He has published articles on ankle arthroscopy and is recognized for his foot and ankle surgical reconstruction techniques. Thursday, March 28

6-7 p.m.Platte Valley Medical Center Conference Center

HEAlTH SEMINAR SERIES: RElIEF FoR FooT & ANKlE PAIN

28MAR

RSVP NoW (303) 498-1481 pvmc.org/rsvp

PUT Y0UR F00T & ANKlE PAIN BEHIND Y0U.lEARN H0W MARCH 28.

HAPPY FEET

The only 9Health Fair in Brighton this year.Platte Valley Medical Center: Saturday, April 13, 7:00 a.m. – Noon

More than 20 free screenings and the following low-cost health screenings: Blood Chemistry: $30 Provides baseline information on cholesterol, blood glucose, liver, kidneys, thyroid, and more.*

Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) for Men: $25 Recommended for males 40 and older with a family history of prostate cancer, or all males 50 to 75.*

Blood Count: $15 Checks white blood cells, hematocrit, hemoglobin levels, and blood-clotting abilities. Assesses your body’s ability to fight infection, anemia, liver disease and certain cancers.*

Vitamin D: $40 Measures baseline Vitamin D level. If you already take Vitamin D you should have a blood level drawn to monitor your level since Vitamin D deficiency is now recog-nized as a worldwide problem.*

Hemoglobin A1C: $25 Measures average blood sugar levels over the past two to three months.*

Colon Cancer Screening Take Home Kit: $20 Take-home/mail-in kit checks for human blood in the stool.

For a complete list of free 9Health Fair screenings, visit pvmc.org/events. For more 9Health Fair information and to pre-register online using your Visa or Master Card, visit 9healthfair.org. * Drink plenty of water the night before

and bring a water bottle with you the morning of the 9Health Fair to help improve your blood draw experience.

NEW THIS YEAR Gluten Sensitivity Blood Draw: $45 (PVMC is the only 9Health Fair site in Adams County to offer this test.) Gluten Sensitivity is a lifelong digestive disorder. Gluten is a protein that comes from grains such as flours, bread products, and pasta to name a few examples. Gluten Sensitivity can lead to other health issues such as: anemia, osteoporosis, depression, infertility and other conditions. A blood test called Serum Tissue Transglutamine (tTG-IgA) is performed to deter-mine if a person is sensitive to gluten. You must have gluten present in your diet for at least 4-6 weeks prior to being tested.

Since 1980, more Than 1 million people have benefited from the free and low-cost health screenings and education provided at 9health Fairs. lives have been improved, changed and even saved because a previously unknown health issue was discovered through 9health Fair screenings.

15pvmc.org

1600 Prairie Center Parkway, Brighton, CO 80601 • (303) 498-1600 • www.pvmc.org

1600 Prairie Center Parkway, Brighton, CO 80601 • (303) 498-3630 • www.pvmc.org/foundation

Your good health is our top priority. We have recently joined an elite

group of facilities across the country that share an important commitment

to raising the standard of care for every patient. We are proud to be recognized

as a certified Pink Ribbon Facility.

As a Pink Ribbon Facility we take pride in providing every woman with

a softer, warmer mammogram by using MammoPad, a soft foam pad

that serves as a cushion between you and the most sophisticated digital

mammography equipment. Now you can relax knowing your mammogram

will be a warmer and more comfortable experience.

If a warmer, more comfortablemammogram sounds appealing,

then we invite you to visit us.

FullpgColor_Mammogram_Ad 1R_Layout 1 9/26/11 10:15 AM Page 1

PR0VIDINg Y0U A WARMER

M0RE C0MF0RTABlE

Your health is our mission and our top priority. We are pleased to announce that we have recently joined an elite group of facilities across the country that share an important commitment to raising the standard of care for every patient. We are proud to be recognized as a certified Pink Ribbon™ Facility.

As a Pink Ribbon Facility we take pride in providing every woman with a softer, warmer mammogram by using MammoPad, a soft foam pad that serves as a cushion

between you and the most sophisticated digital mammography equipment available. The MammoPad is offered free of charge to every mammography patient, thanks to a gift by the Platte Valley Medical Center Foundation. Now you can relax knowing your mammogram will be a warmer and more comfortable experience.

Call today to schedule your mammogram and experience the latest in breast cancer detection and comfort technology. (303) 498-1700

PR0VIDINg Y0U A WARMER

M0RE C0MF0RTABlE MAMM0gRAM

Save these dates!

To Friends and Family of Platte Valley Medical Center Postal Patron

NoNPRoFIT oRgUS Postage

PAIDBrighton, CoPermit No. 18

1600 Prairie Center ParkwayBrighton, CO 80601

See pages 12–13 or visit pvmc.org/events for event descriptions, times, and registration information.