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healthviews 

November/December 2012 

a health publication from Riverview Medical Center and Bayshore Community Hospital 

Young 

Athlete’s 

Season Is 

Back on Track 

Critical Care Saves 

Mom and Baby 

Weight-Loss Surgery 

Changes Lives 

Cool Tips to Stay 

Fit This Winter 

visit us online at RiverviewMedicalCenter.com and BayshoreHospital.org

A Message to the Community 

The first moments of new parenthood are some of the most 

memorable. At Meridian Health, we strive to provide new 

families with a comfortable experience and the best care. 

Complications during pregnancy can arise without warning, 

which makes the choice of where to give birth an important 

one. In this issue, you’ll read about some remarkable births at our 

hospitals. Christine Quigley found herself facing a life-threatening 

emergency. Tascha Krapf embarked on a pregnancy while 

managing type 1 diabetes. Kristine Zellman’s complicated medical 

history made her third pregnancy high risk. All of them received 

expert care while delivering beautiful, healthy babies. 

This fall also brings a focus on the seniors in our communities. 

Meridian Health and Geisinger Health Plan have partnered 

to bring Geisinger Gold — a provider-sponsored Medicare 

Advantage product that is ranked as number six in the country 

— to seniors in Monmouth and Ocean counties. Seniors will 

now have access to a high-quality, cost-effective option for 

Medicare coverage that’s not currently available in this region, 

including better management of chronic conditions, better 

health care outcomes, and better access to covered services. 

The product was introduced in the fall, with plan benefits 

becoming effective January 2013. 

You can learn much more at 

MeridianGeisingerGold.com. 

No matter what your age or 

stage, Meridian Health is here 

for you. 


4 

6 

8 

9 

10 

12 

13 

Health Briefs 

Riverview Doctors Expect the 

Unexpected to Save Mom 

and Baby 

Critical care during a 

life-threatening situation 

Young Athlete Thrives After 

Rare Tumor 

Robotic Surgery Helps Man 

Fight Two Cancers 

The newest technology means a 

better experience for patients 

A Veterans Day 

Survival Story 

One Appointment Changes 

New Gretna Woman’s Life 

Managing a High-Risk 

Pregnancy Close to Home 

John K. Lloyd, FACHE 

President, Meridian Health 

14 

Pregnancy Care Is Tailored 

to Perfection 

Read us on the go! The Meridian HealthViews 

app is now available for free download from the App 

Store on iTunes. Once you’re in the store, simply search 

“HealthViews” to download the app. 

This free bimonthly magazine is prepared by the Marketing and Communications Team 

of Meridian Health. Please call 732-751-7530 with any questions or comments. Inquiries 

or ideas can be addressed to healthviews@meridianhealth.com. 

Peter Wegener, Esq., Chairman 

John K. Lloyd, FACHE, President 

Chrisie Scott, Vice President of Marketing and Corporate Communications 

Elliot Frank, M.D., Medical Advisor 

HealthViews production team: Michael McCauley, Gabriella Heizler, Jacki Kronstedt 

© 2012 Meridian Health 

The material provided in this magazine is intended to be used as general information 

only and should not replace the advice of your physician. Always consult your physician 

for individual care. 

Connect with Us! 

e 

Looking for a healthy, tasty holiday brunch 

treat? On October 24, find a recipe for 

cranberry pumpkin muffins at 

www.facebook.com/MeridianHealthNJ. 

Meridian Health tweets hot health-related 

headlines and local news pieces regularly at 

www.twitter.com/MeridianNJ. 

Meridian Momtourage physicians discuss 

women’s health in videos on YouTube: 

www.youtube.com/MeridianHealthNJ. 

Receive free e-newsletters on pediatric 

and cardiovascular health topics! Sign up at 

www.MeridianHealth.com/enewsletters.

6 

9 

19 

15 

16 

17 

Getting UFC’s ‘Jersey Devil’ 

Back in the Ring 

Riverview Experts Save 

Young Athlete’s Season 


Changes Keansburg 

Dad’s Life 

healthviews 


a health publication from Riverview Medical Center and Bayshore Community Hospital 

18 

19 

20 

Specialized Pediatric Care 

Saves Choking Toddler 

Olympic Medalist Offers 

Tips for Staying Fit 

This Winter 

Inside or out, there are ways to 

keep up your routine 

Gift Ensures Ocean Medical 

Center Is Growing Together 

with Our Community 

21 

27 

28 

30 

Community Health Programs 

Take a Closer Look at Your 

Eye Health 

Solve the Puzzle of Your Pills 

My Health Views 

Young 

Athlete’s 

Season Is 

Back on Track 

Cover Stories 

When a football tackle sidelined Logan Whelan with a shoulder injury, his 

dream of making the basketball team seemed to be in jeopardy. Expert care at 

Riverview Medical Center got him back on the court. See his story on page 16. 

Critical Care Saves Weight-Loss Surgery Cool Tips to Stay 

Mom and Baby 

Changes Lives 

Fit This Winter 

visit us online at RiverviewMedicalCenter.com and BayshoreHospital.org 

Critical Care Saves 

Mom and Baby 

page 6 


Changes Lives 

page 17 

Cool Tips to Stay Fit 

This Winter 

page 19

Promising News for 

People with Pre-Diabetes 

56% 

of those whose blood 

sugar levels returned to 

normal — even just once — 

Health Briefs 

What goes up must come down. That’s the 

verdict of a new study on pre-diabetes. 

Nearly 80 million Americans have pre-diabetes. “The condition 

is characterized by high blood sugar and significantly raises the risk 

for type 2 diabetes,” explains Cristina Ciorlian, M.D., of Jersey Shore 

University Medical Center. However, according to results published in 

had a lower risk of later 

developing type 2 

diabetes. 

The Lancet, this diagnosis isn’t inevitable. In fact, getting blood sugar 

levels back to normal — even just for a short time — could indicate a lower 

risk of developing diabetes down the road. 

Study researchers followed almost 2,000 adults with pre-diabetes for up 

to six years. Those whose blood sugar levels returned to normal — even 

just once — had a 56 percent lower risk of later developing type 2 diabetes. 

Join us at a Diabetes Awareness Day Event on November 3 or 9. 

Nutrition experts will be available for consultation, and a variety of 

screenings will be offered as well. Turn to page 21 for all the details. 

MeridianHealth.com • 1-800-DOCTORS® 

Stand Up for Your Health 

“The government suggests 

getting 150 minutes of exercise a week,” 

says Ladan Ilkhani, M.D., of Ocean Medical 

Center. But Australian researchers have 

found that what you do during the other 

6,500 minutes that you’re awake each week 

also matters. 

For a study in Archives of Internal 

Medicine, they asked more than 200,000 

adults about their daily activity habits. 

They then matched up survey results to 

national death records. Over a three-year 

period, people who sat for 11 hours or more 

per day were 40 percent more likely to die 

of any cause than those who logged less 

than four hours of chair time. 

How Much Physical Activity 

Do You Need Each Day? 

Don’t let the holidays sidetrack your weight-loss efforts. Join us on November 19 for an 

informative discussion on sticking to your goals. See page 24 to learn more. 

4

Low-Fat Milk 

Does the 

Brain Good 

Milk does more than 

build strong bones. New 

research published in the 

journal Stroke found it could 

protect the brain. 

For the study, almost 

75,000 Swedish adults ages 

45 to 83 completed dietary 

questionnaires. They reported 

on their consumption of dairy 

foods, such as milk, yogurt, 

and cheese. Researchers 

then tracked the number 

of strokes they had within 

approximately the next 10 

years. Participants who ate 

the most low-fat dairy foods 

had a 12 percent lower risk for 

any type of stroke. 

“This is consistent with 

other research, which has 

shown that low-fat dairy foods 

reduce blood pressure, a 

major stroke risk factor,” 

notes Tommasina 

Papa-Rugino, M.D., 

of Southern Ocean 

Medical Center. 

Tap into the 

power of aging! 

Turn to page 24 

to learn about 

our lecture with 

a geriatrician 

on aging 

successfully. 

Berries Might Keep Your 

Mind Sharp 

Concerned about memory loss as you age? 

A new study in the Annals of Neurology has some “berry” 

good news for you! 

Researchers followed the diets of nearly 16,000 

women. When participants were all age 70 or older, 

researchers tested their thinking ability, memory, and 

other mental factors. The women who ate blueberries 

at least once a week and strawberries at least twice 

a week appeared to delay cognitive decline by 

up to two-and-a-half years. “Berries are high in 

nutrients called flavonoids that are believed to 

play a role in delaying age-related memory and 

other cognitive problems,” says Matthew Davis, 

M.D., of Riverview Medical Center. 

If you or a loved one is experiencing increased 

forgetfulness or trouble concentrating, you 

may benefit from a memory screening. Plan 

to attend our Memory Awareness Day in 

November. Details are on page 21. 

Meridian HealthViews • November/December 2012 

5

Riverview Medical Center 

The Quigley family relaxes at home in Holmdel, healthy and 

happy after experiencing a life-threatening complication during 

the birth of Connor (far left) last year. 

Riverview Doctors Expect the Unexpected 

to Save Mom and Baby 

MeridianHealth.com • 1-800-DOCTORS 

Holmdel resident Christine 

Quigley’s 4-year-old son, 

Ryan, was born at Riverview 

Medical Center, so it was the natural 

choice for welcoming her second 

child in July 2011. The 37-year-old’s 

pregnancy had gone smoothly, so she 

saw no reason to worry about her 

scheduled induction. The night before, 

she and her husband, Jim, headed to 

Riverview, where they met Christine’s 

OB/GYN, Adi Smolinsky, M.D. 

But after Christine’s water broke, 

the delivery accelerated at an 

alarming rate. “It was zero to 60 in 

minutes,” Christine says. “I was in 

extraordinary pain very quickly.” 

Her son Connor, born within 

30 minutes of her induction at the 

hospital, had trouble breathing. 

As Christine panicked about his 

condition, she didn’t know she 

would soon need emergency surgery 

herself for a postpartum hemorrhage. 

Without the expertise and quick 

thinking of Dr. Smolinsky and the 

Riverview team, she might not 

have survived. 

A Critical Decision 

Only 15 minutes after Connor was 

taken to the Special Care Nursery for 

evaluation of his breathing problems, 

Christine had what felt like another 

contraction, then began bleeding 

uncontrollably. 

“Her uterine muscle weakened 

and wouldn’t contract — the most 

common reason for bleeding after 

delivery,” Dr. Smolinsky says. “We 

tried every conservative method, 

from manual massage to a special 

balloonlike device that stops 

bleeding with mechanical pressure.” 

Despite these efforts, the bleeding 

persisted, and the situation became 

life threatening. Dr. Smolinsky knew 

she had to ask Christine’s husband 

for permission to possibly perform a 

hysterectomy — the removal of her 

uterus. “She said to Jim, ‘We need to 

6

save your wife’s life,’” Christine says. 

“Jim replied, ‘Do whatever you need 

to do.’” Although it was his day off, 

fellow Riverview OB/GYN Robert 

Penney, M.D., came in to assist 

Dr. Smolinsky with the surgery. 

A Turn for the Better 

In the operating room, there was 

finally some good news. Instead of 

a hysterectomy, Dr. Smolinsky was 

able to perform a bilateral uterine 

artery ligation with B-lynch uterine 

compression sutures — a reversible 

procedure. It clamped off the 

blood flow and forced the uterus to 

contract while preserving Christine’s 

ability to have more children. 

When Christine awoke later 

that night, her first thought was of 

Connor. After hearing he was fine, 

she began to comprehend what she 

had been through. “I’d only heard of 

things like this in movies and on TV. 

It’s not something you’d think could 

happen to a healthy woman.” 

The Road Ahead 

Christine saw and held Connor the 

next day, and they went home from 

the hospital a week later. Slowly 

but surely, they recovered, both 

physically and mentally. Christine 

returned to her human resources job 

in December 2011. 

Such complications can arise 

without warning, making the choice 

of birth location critically important, 

Dr. Smolinsky says. “In Christine’s 

delivery, nobody expected such a 

dramatic labor, but sometimes we 

cannot anticipate what life will bring 

us. It’s important to be in the right 

place — in this case, a hospital with 

leading-edge treatment and the right 

people there 24 hours a day.” 

Christine agrees. “When I saw 

Dr. Smolinsky for the first follow-up 

appointment, I cried in her arms. 

Every day, I kiss and hold my two 

boys and think, ‘I’m so grateful they 

still have their mommy.’” • 

Adi Smolinsky, M.D. 

Obstetrics and Gynecology 

Atlantic Highlands • 732-291-5121 

Experience the Best in 

Birthing 

The medical team at Jane H. Booker 

Childbirth Center at Riverview 

Medical Center practices expert care. 

And they do so in an extraordinary 

space, specially designed to keep 

families safe, happy, and comfortable. 

Put your mind at ease with fast 

access to skilled obstetricians, 

neonatologists, maternal-fetal 

specialists, anesthesiologists, and 24- 

hour in-house pediatricians who can 

treat any situation during pregnancy 

and childbirth. There’s also a level 

II nursery for babies requiring 

specialized care after birth. 

Along with this expertise, we 

provide a serene space that allows 

you to enjoy your family’s first 

moments together, featuring: 

• Private, spa-like rooms that 

overlook the Navesink River 

• Concierge Care, offering bedside 

access to everything from beauty 

services to local cuisine and spa 

services 

• Bella Baby Photography, for 

beautiful, artful photos of your 

newborn 

Baby on Board? We’ll Help You Be Ready 

Meridian Health offers classes and seminars for first-time and 

experienced parents, as well as tours, classes for siblings, and more! 

Registration requested before your third trimester. To learn more about our 

fun and informative classes, visit MeridianMomtourage.com. 

If additional expertise is needed 

with pediatric or neonatal intensive 

care, seamless coordination through 

Meridian Transfer Center allows 

safe transport to K. Hovnanian 

Children’s Hospital at Jersey Shore 

University Medical Center. 

V-RMC_Birthday_8.375x3-12_Layout 1 9/5/12 2:35 PM Page 1 

Riverview Moms expect the best and 

our new Childbirth Center delivers. 

Now expect more fun at Riverview Medical Center’s annual 

Childbirth Center Birthday Party and Baby Fair! 

First-time and seasoned mommies alike are invited to join us for an 

afternoon dedicated to the health and wellness of you and your 

growing family. Participate in a number of interactive activities from 

local vendors, hear the latest news and tips for mommies of all walks 

of life, get a sneak peak at our beautiful and recently renovated 

Childbirth Center, and more! Light refreshments will be served 

and all mommies will given a special birthday gift. 

This event is FREE but registration is required. 

To RSVP call 800.560.9990 or visit 

www.RiverviewMedicalCenter.com/Birthday 

Saturday 

November 10, 2012 

12:00 p.m.- 2:00 p.m. 

Joan and Robert Rechnitz 

Conference and Education 

Center at Riverview 

Medical Center 

Taking Care of 

New Jersey


Jersey Shore University Medical Center 

Young Athlete Thrives 

After Rare Tumor 

Twenty-year-old Paige Truax 

has always maintained an 

energetic, healthy lifestyle 

through her love of sports, particularly 

swimming. But while spending the 

holidays in Howell after her first 

semester of college, Paige felt tired, 

and she noticed her stomach seemed 

unusually large and swollen. 

On December 10, 2011, she went 

to Jersey Shore University Medical 

Center, where ultrasound tests 

revealed a large cyst on one of 

her ovaries. Paige was immediately 

admitted for emergency surgery, and 

the cyst was successfully removed 

using minimally invasive techniques. 

Her journey didn’t end there, 

however. A biopsy of the cyst 

showed that it was an immature 

teratoma, a rare type of cancer that 

often occurs in young women. 

Finding the Right Surgeon 

Paige was overwhelmed by the 

diagnosis, but Karim ElSahwi, M.D., 

a gynecologic oncologist affiliated 

with Meridian Cancer Care, quickly 

eased much of her anxiety. 

“Dr. ElSahwi explained everything 

in a positive way that made me feel 

comfortable,” she says. “By the end 

of our first meeting, he made me feel 

confident that I was going to be fine.” 

The next step was removing the 

ovary and determining if Paige’s 

cancer had spread. Dr. ElSahwi 

determined that he could perform 

the necessary surgical procedure using 

the da Vinci® robotic surgical system, 

a minimally invasive treatment option 

with many advantages. 

“The da Vinci robot enables surgeons 

to perform complex procedures 

through smaller incisions, resulting in 

less pain and blood loss, minimal 

scarring, a faster recovery 

Karim ElSahwi, M.D. 

Gynecologic Oncology 

Neptune • 732-897-7944 

time, and fewer complications,” 

explains Dr. ElSahwi. 

Advanced Techniques 

Promote Healing 

On the morning of January 5, Paige 

was back at Jersey Shore. “The day of 

the surgery, I wasn’t scared,” she says, 

“especially since the team at Jersey 

Shore took great care of me for my 

first surgery.” 

The surgery was a success, and Paige 

remained in the recovery room for only 

a few hours, feeling great and ready to 

head home. Luckily, her cancer had not 

spread beyond the ovary, and she then 

began three cycles of chemotherapy 

on an outpatient basis. “Chemotherapy 

was the hardest thing I’ve ever gone 

through,” she says. 

“Paige was given a lot on her table,” 

Dr. ElSahwi notes. “She and her family 

handled everything exceptionally well.” 

Today, Paige is excited to be 

moving forward with school, and 

she has a new outlook on life. “I’ve 

realized that the most important 

things are my health and my family’s 

health.” • — Kris Tranquilino 

After successful treatment for a rare type of cancer, Paige Truax 

is moving forward with her life, including spending time with 

friends and family on the beach in Avon. 

Get the Facts About the Surgery of the Future 

For more information about robotic surgery with Karim ElSahwi, M.D., 

visit JerseyShoreUniversityMedicalCenter.com/robotics. 

8

Robotic Surgery Helps Man 

Fight Two Cancers 

Point Pleasant resident 

Clemence Redenski, 57, 

knows what it takes to defeat 

cancer — twice. Tumors in his 

prostate and kidney are now history, 

thanks to his doctors at the Center 

for Robotic Surgery at Jersey Shore 


“To cope with cancer, you have 

to have a strong will and believe 

you’re going to be all right, which 

I did,” Clemence says. He also had 

an expert surgeon: Jersey Shore 

urologist Mark Perlmutter, M.D., who 

removed both cancers using the 

da Vinci® surgical robot. 


A Blessing in Disguise 

Clemence’s cancer journey began in 

July 2011. He sought care for a cough 

caused by allergies — but his blood 

tests revealed signs of prostate 

cancer. A physical examination and 

biopsy confirmed the diagnosis. 

“I said, you’ve got to be kidding 

me. It’s cancer?” Clemence 

remembers. He was referred to 

Dr. Perlmutter, who recommended 

a robotic radical prostatectomy to 

completely remove the prostate. 

“This surgery is one of the most 

complex operations we do in urology,” 

Dr. Perlmutter says. “Traditionally, 

it’s an involved operation with large 

amounts of blood loss — but not 

with the surgical robot.” 

With the da Vinci system, 

Dr. Perlmutter sits at a console, 

manipulating robotic arms that hold 

tiny surgical instruments, including 

a three-dimensional camera, which 

allows him to see inside the patient 

without large incisions. Because 

the incisions are small, blood loss, 

scarring, and pain are reduced. 

Clemence had surgery on 

December 21, 2011, and went home 

on the 24th, feeling well enough to 

attend Christmas Eve dinner with 

family and friends. 

With his cancer treatment behind him, Clemence Redenski enjoys fishing, crabbing, and watching 

sports in his free time. 

A Second Scare 

While most patients would have 

been glad to take it easy after this, 

Clemence had to gear up for a 

second challenge: Scans used to 

plan his prostate surgery revealed 

a suspicious mass on his kidney. 

Follow-up studies suggested 

kidney cancer. In April, Clemence, 

Dr. Perlmutter, and the robot 

were together in the operating 

room again. 

“The robotic system makes it 

much easier to treat kidney cancer,” 

Dr. Perlmutter says. “We can remove 

only the diseased portion, rather 

than the entire kidney. Studies show 

this helps patients live longer.” 

Less Pain, Faster Recovery 

Mark A. Perlmutter, M.D. 

Urology 

Manasquan • 732-223-7877 

The Right Place for Surgery 

Today, Clemence’s cancers have not 

returned, and he’s grateful for the care he 

received at Jersey Shore. “Dr. Perlmutter 

and the rest of the team were caring 

and full of knowledge. They explained 

everything completely,” he says. 

“This is a great place to have 

robotic surgery,” Dr. Perlmutter says. 

“We have the newest technologies, 

and we’re always trying to do things 

better for our patients.” • 

Robotic-assisted surgery is used at Jersey Shore to treat many 

gynecologic and urologic conditions. Learn about its benefits at 

JerseyShoreUniversityMedicalCenter.com/robotics. 

9Meridian HealthViews • November/December 2012

Ocean Medical Center 

from Two Conditions on Veterans Day 


10 

Veterans Day 2011 was one to remember for 

Korean War vet Jerry Avergun, who lives in Toms 

River. After being rushed to Ocean Medical 

Center with a heart attack, tests revealed 

that he had a dangerous ballooning of an 

artery in his abdomen, which could be fatal. A 

team of specialists who are part of Meridian 

CardioVascular Network were able to perform 

lifesaving procedures right at Jerry’s local 

hospital, and within a few days, he was home 

again. “This is truly an amazing case,” says 

Rayson Yang, M.D. 

As a Korean War veteran, Toms River resident Jerry Avergun has long 

marked Veterans Day as a reminder of the time he served overseas. 

But on Veterans Day last year, the holiday took on a new meaning. 

Not only would it represent how the 83-year-old had fought for his country, 

but also how he had fought for his life. 

Jerry began November 11, 2011, by participating in a Veterans Day parade in his 

community of Greenbriar Woodlands, a tradition for the past 18 years. Unlike 

most years, however, Jerry wasn’t up for continuing the celebration afterward 

with friends. He didn’t feel well and chose to go home. 

There, he quickly deteriorated, losing his appetite, shivering uncontrollably, 

and beginning to feel pain near his groin. His wife called their doctor and was 

told to get Jerry to the Emergency Department. 

At Ocean Medical Center, the medical team quickly recognized that Jerry 

was having a heart attack. But the physician on duty had a feeling something 

else was going on, too. Additional tests revealed that Jerry also had an iliac 

artery aneurysm — a ballooning of an artery in his abdomen. If it burst, Jerry 

could die. Specialists were called, and he was rushed to surgery.

A Dire Situation 

A heart attack alone is life threatening for any patient. It 

occurs when blood flow to a part of the heart is blocked. 

This results in a lack of oxygen, and the heart muscle is 

damaged and can die. Paired up with the aneurysm, Jerry’s 

situation was extremely dire. 

Frank Sharp, M.D., a vascular surgeon at Ocean Medical 

Center, explains that an aneurysm is a bulging section in the 

wall of a blood vessel. “Imagine that your artery is a hose 

that carries blood from your heart to your legs. Now picture 

a section of the hose with a bulge that is filled with blood 

and is ready to burst,” he continues. “Aneurysms are very 

serious because they usually don’t show symptoms until 

they rupture. Even if you get to a hospital, it’s about a 

50/50 chance between life and death.” 

Jerry had several things on his side that fateful day. 

First, he was physically fit and in otherwise good health. 

Second, an extraordinary team of specialists who are 

part of Meridian CardioVascular Network were readily 

available to perform lifesaving procedures right at Jerry’s 

local hospital. And third, Ocean Medical Center has 

the advanced technology of a state-of-the-art hybrid 

endovascular suite that enabled the doctors to perform 

two intricate procedures, back to back, all in one room. 

Collaborating on an “Amazing” Case 

Two teams of doctors took turns saving Jerry’s life. First, 

interventional cardiologist Rayson Yang, M.D., performed 

an emergency angioplasty to open Jerry’s arteries. Under a 

local anesthetic, Jerry was in a relaxed state as the doctor 

threaded a special device into his blocked artery and 

restored the blood flow to his heart. 

As soon as Jerry’s heart was stabilized, Dr. Sharp and his 

vascular team traded places with Dr. Yang’s team and set 

to work on the aneurysm repair. The teams spent several 

hours in the endovascular suite, collaborating on one of 

the most miraculous cases they had experienced in years. 

“This is truly an amazing case,” says Dr. Yang. “It was 

great to see Jerry sitting up and feeling pretty good 

when I checked on him later that evening.” Within a few 

Frank J. Sharp, M.D. 

Board certified in Vascular and General Surgery 

Brick • 732-202-1500 

Rayson Yang, M.D. 

Board certified in Cardiovascular Disease, Interventional 

Cardiology, and Internal Medicine 

Neptune • 732-776-8500 

days, Jerry was home again, resting and preparing for 

Thanksgiving dinner with his family. 

In retrospect, the doctors determined that the pain was 

the result of the ruptured aneurysm, which precipitated 

the heart attack. “This shows how far technology has 

come,” notes Dr. Sharp. “If it were a few years ago, he 

probably wouldn’t have survived these circumstances.” 

“The doctors and nurses took great care of me and kept 

my family informed throughout the entire ordeal,” says Jerry. 

While his wife, Nancy, was by his side in the hospital and an 

integral part of his recovery process, she passed away in the 

spring. “Things have changed, but I’ve learned to adjust my 

diet and keep active,” Jerry says. “I try to walk each day, play 

golf, and also write two columns and proofread the Pine 

Cone Press community newsletter.” • — Donna Sellmann 

Cooking with Heart for the Holidays 

We’re sharing the secrets for favorite holiday dishes 

— with a healthy twist. Samples will be provided as a 

cardiologist and nutritionist discuss medical, lifestyle, and 

dietary options that will keep you on track during the season. 

November 29 

4:00 p.m. 


Conference Rooms A, B, and C 

Explorer. 

Barbara didn’t realize that one day her passion would 

save her life. 

To learn more about Barbara’s minimally invasive procedure, visit 

MeridianCardioVascularNetwork.com. For a physician, call 1-800-DOCTORS ® 

Research 

& Education 

Prevention 

& Wellness 

Diagnosis 


New Jersey 

Meridian CardioVascular Network 

Jersey Shore University Medical Center Meridian Network of Physicians 


Meridian At Home 


Meridian Rehabilitation Centers 

K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital 

Meridian Life Fitness Centers 

Southern Ocean Medical Center 

Bayshore Community Hospital 

© Meridian Health 2012 

Treatment 

Recovery 

Home


One Appointment 

Changes New Gretna Woman’s Life 

Christina Walker’s strange and unexplained 

symptoms began at age 14. Stomach problems, 

headaches, and seizures frequently kept her out of 

school. She was told she’d have trouble getting pregnant, 

without knowing why. Christina went from doctor to 

doctor, searching for answers. 

It wasn’t until she met Steven Koerner, D.O., a 

gastroenterologist at Southern Ocean Medical Center, 

that she finally received a diagnosis. 

Finding Answers Fast 

Dr. Koerner heard about Christina’s symptoms from 

her mother, Bambi Walker, a registered nurse in the 

Endoscopy Department at Southern Ocean. He suggested 

Christina come in for a diagnostic procedure called an 

EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy). During this test, 

Dr. Koerner placed a long, thin scope down Christina’s 

throat and saw telltale signs of intestinal damage. 

Christina had celiac disease. 

After learning to live well with celiac disease, Christina Walker was overjoyed 

to welcome her first child, a baby girl named Sage. 

When people with this immune disorder eat gluten — a 

protein in wheat, rye, and barley — their bodies attack their 

small intestines, causing the sort of damage Dr. Koerner saw 

in Christina. The condition affects about one in 100 people. 

Having type 1 diabetes or another immune disease puts 

you at even higher risk. Along with the symptoms Christina 

experienced, signs of celiac disease may include bloating, 

gas, weight loss, anemia, or a painful, itchy rash. 

“The signs aren’t specific, so it may take several 

specialists and sometimes years before patients are 

diagnosed properly,” Dr. Koerner says. “At Southern Ocean, 

we have physicians who are well-versed in looking for and 

treating this disease, as well as dieticians who can help 

patients follow a gluten-free diet.” 

Learning to Eat Again 

Following a gluten-free diet is the only treatment for 

celiac disease. It means avoiding bread, pasta, and pizza, 

as well as many restaurant and processed foods. “It was 

tricky at first, but I read labels and learned what foods I 

could and couldn’t have,” Christina says. 

Going gluten-free not only eases symptoms, but can also 

prevent serious complications of celiac disease, which 

include osteoporosis, infertility, thyroid disease, and 

even cancer. 

Now 25, Christina feels great and just welcomed her 

first child, a baby girl named Sage, in June 2012. The New 

Gretna resident was so pleased with her experience at 

Southern Ocean, she chose to have Sage there. 

“They found out what was going on with me when nobody 

else could,” Christina says. “And the staff and doctors are 

kind, compassionate, and care about you as a patient. 

“After all this time, I finally know what’s wrong. Now, I 

have relief.” • 


12 

Steven Koerner, D.O. 

Board certified in Gastroenterology and Internal Medicine 

Manahawkin • 609-597-6513 

Could an EGD Help You? 

Find out how an esophagogastroduodenoscopy 

works by listening to our podcast. Visit 

wellnesscenter.meridianhealth.com/MultimediaRoom 

and click on “Podcasts,” then “Gastroenterology.”

Managing a 

Pregnancy Close to Home 

Michael Sze, M.D. 

Board certified in Obstetrics 

and Gynecology 

Manahawkin • 609-978-9841 


Kristine Zellman calls her youngest son, Aiden, “a very strong little boy” who loves watching his older 

brother, Philip, and older sister, Emily. Her obstetrical team at Southern Ocean Medical Center met its 

goal of keeping her high-risk pregnancy “unremarkable.” 

Kristine Zellman of Little Egg 

Harbor already had two 

healthy children — 9-year-old 

Philip and 4-year-old Emily — when 

she became pregnant again at age 31. 

She also had a complicated medical 

history, and she knew the next nine 

months would be tough. 

“I was nervous,” she recalls, “and 

while it didn’t hold me back, the fact 

that my pregnancy was high risk was 

always in the back of my mind.” 

Fortunately, Kristine was partnered 

with a dedicated obstetrical team 

at Southern Ocean Medical Center. 

Her obstetrician, Michael Sze, M.D., 

monitored her closely throughout 

her pregnancy. 

Top-Notch Care That’s Convenient, Too 

“Kristine had several health 

factors, any of which could have 

caused complications through her 

pregnancy,” he explains. “She has 

what is known as factor V Leiden 

deficiency, which is a blood-clotting 

disorder, and pregnancy makes 

this condition worse. She also has 

polycystic kidney disease, so we 

had to carefully monitor her kidney 

function. And she has chronic 

hypertension, which can increase 

the risk for preeclampsia, a dangerous 

condition that can occur 

during pregnancy.” 

Combined, these conditions 

raised Kristine’s risk of developing 

other illnesses while pregnant, but 

the experts at Southern Ocean 

were prepared. “Dr. Sze was very 

informative, reassuring, and positive 

about things,” says Kristine. “There 

was a lot of testing and a lot of 

office visits. He often answered my 

questions before I even asked them. 

I can’t say enough about all the 

support and the attentive care 

I received from Dr. Sze and the 

entire office staff.” 

The team was ready on April 18, 

2012, when Kristine gave birth to 

Aiden, a healthy baby boy. 

“It takes the coordination of our 

whole team of physicians to ensure 

a good outcome,” says Dr. Sze. 

“Kristine was a model patient and 

followed up with every visit and 

every instruction. Our goal was 

to keep her high-risk pregnancy 

unremarkable, and we were 

successful in that.” 

Kristine was grateful for this 

care — and grateful it was available 

close to home. “I was thankful that I 

did not have to travel or change my 

family routine to get safely through 

my pregnancy,” says Kristine. “I was 

always close to home, close to my 

husband, Tom, and able to care for 

my kids. And I loved having my baby 

in the Southern Ocean Maternity 

Pavilion. The staff was unbelievable 

and I couldn’t be happier with the 

entire experience. Everything was 

perfect.” • — Joyce McFadden 

Southern Ocean Medical Center’s board certified obstetrical team offers expert care for women facing high-risk 

pregnancies. You can stay close to home and have a healthy and safe pregnancy, labor, and delivery. 


13



Tailored to Perfection 

A team of physicians helps a creative mom manage her high-risk pregnancy 

As a talented seamstress who 

creates beautifully tailored 

clothes and upholstery, 

Tascha Krapf knows that the best 

handcrafted goods require expertise 

and planning. She applied these same 

principles when she and her husband, 

Dan, decided to start a family. That’s 

because Tascha, 32, has type 1 diabetes, 

a condition that makes her pregnancies 

high risk. To manage her health, as 

well as that of her baby, she turned to 

Jersey Shore University Medical Center. 

Thanks to a team effort from her doctors, plus her 

own preparedness, Tascha Krapf, who has type 1 

diabetes, gave birth to a healthy baby boy. 

Join Us for a Weekend of Women’s Wellness! 

“You have to be vigilant. You want 

to do your best so that you don’t 

harm yourself or your baby during the 

pregnancy,” Tascha says. 

Experts Work Together 

The Manahawkin resident managed 

her first high-risk pregnancy in 2009, 

before her son Lucas was born, and in 

2011 she prepared to follow the same 

drill again. Step one was getting her 

diabetes under control. Tascha, a native 

of Denmark, has coped with diabetes 

since 1996 and wears an insulin pump to 

keep her blood sugar levels in check. 

“Diabetes is all about three things: 

insulin management, exercise, and 

nutrition,” she explains. “You really 

have to be on it. I test my blood sugar 

up to nine times a day.” 

When her diabetes was stable and 

she became pregnant, Tascha visited 

her OB/GYN, Steven Morgan, M.D., at 

Jersey Shore. He recommended they 

work together with two colleagues: 

obstetric internist and primary care 

physician Michael Carson, M.D., 

who specializes in medical disorders 

during pregnancy and would monitor 

Tascha’s diabetes, and maternal-fetal 

medicine specialist Kolawole Oyelese, 

M.D., who would focus on the baby’s 

development. 

“Tascha was a conscientious 

patient who was aware of 

the challenges associated 

with a high-risk 

pregnancy,” Dr. Morgan 

says. “She prepared 

herself well and was 

receptive to the 

team approach 

that Dr. Carson, 

Steven A. Morgan, M.D. 


and Gynecology 

Ocean • 732-531-1136 

Dr. Oyelese, and I advocated. This 

was a true team effort.” 

Constant Monitoring 

One key component of her care was 

regular checkups and screenings. 

Dr. Oyelese was particularly 

concerned with the fetus’s heart 

development, as babies born to 

mothers with diabetes often have 

heart defects. Tascha saw him every 

four to six weeks. She also regularly 

visited Drs. Morgan and Carson. 

“As with all high-risk pregnancies, 

Tascha required constant 

monitoring,” Dr. Carson says. 

This teamwork paid off on June 25, 

2012, when Dr. Morgan helped Tascha 

deliver Noah, a healthy baby boy. 

“My experience with the team at 

Jersey Shore was the best,” Tascha 

says. “All the physicians worked 

together, and I knew I was getting 

the best care possible.” • 

Meridian Health will once again sponsor the New Jersey Women’s Expo, held October 27 

and 28 at Brookdale Community College. Join us for physician panels, health screenings, and 

refreshments in the Meridian Momtourage lounge. For details, visit NJWomensExpo.com. 

Michael Carson, M.D. 

Board certified in Internal Medicine 

Neptune • 732-897-3990 

Kolawole Oyelese, M.D. 


and Gynecology and Maternal 

Fetal Medicine 

Neptune • 732-776-4755 

14

Getting UFC’s 


Back in 

the Ring 

Brick resident Nick Catone 

discovered his calling in life 

at age 7, when he took up 

wrestling. After competing through 

high school and college, Nick, now 

30, expanded his skills and became 

accomplished in martial arts and 

boxing. Today, he is an Ultimate 

Fighting Championship (UFC) fighter, 

nicknamed “The Jersey Devil,” with 

an international following. 

But that dedication came at a cost: 

More than 20 years of training caused 

wear and tear on Nick’s body. He 

needed the help of Ocean Medical 

Center to get back in fighting form. 

Treatment Focused on 

Performance 

“A few years ago, I could tell that 

my training was taking a toll on 

my shoulder,” says Nick, who owns 

Nick Catone’s Mixed Martial Arts 

Academy in Brick and volunteers 

with the wrestling program at his 

former high school there. Needing 

a sports medicine expert close to 

home, he made an appointment 

with Jason Nitche, M.D., an 

orthopedic surgeon at Ocean who 

focuses on sports medicine. 

“When I first saw Nick in 2010, 

he had chronic overuse injuries, 

After several injuries, Ocean Medical Center helped get UFC fighter Nick Catone back in form. Nick owns a 

training gym in Brick, where he teaches more than 300 students, including Ricky Badejas and Brian Decker. 

including bone spurs, arthritis, and 

tears in his shoulder,” explains 

Dr. Nitche. “I treated Nick so that he 

could get back to his sport.” 

Dr. Nitche performed surgery to 

remove the bone spur — a small 

bony growth that formed on the 

edge of Nick’s shoulder. He also 

treated torn tissue in the joint at the 

time of surgery. 

Nick was once again in peak 

condition until the following 

September, when he ruptured his 

Achilles tendon during training. The 

painful injury required surgery, and 

he wouldn’t have trusted anyone but 

Dr. Nitche and Ocean’s experts to 

perform it. 

“I had no doubt that I would be 

in good hands with Dr. Nitche,” Nick 

recalls. “He understood what I did for 

a living, and I knew he’d provide the 

extra time and care to help me get 

back to where I wanted to be.” 

Back to Good Health 

Jason A. Nitche, M.D. 

Orthopedic Surgery 

Brick • 732-840-7500 

Fighting Back 

Dr. Nitche successfully performed 

the procedure and started Nick on 

a focused and aggressive physical 

rehabilitation program. 

“With a specialty in sports medicine, 

I treat athletes with a different 

perspective than general orthopedic 

surgeons,” says Dr. Nitche. “Not only 

do we correct the problem, we do so 

in a way that helps the athlete get back 

to a high level of performance.” 

Thanks to this care, Nick was back 

to UFC fighting in 10 months. 

“I’m still as explosive as I used to 

be,” he says. • 

You may not be a UFC fighter, but chances are, at some point you’ll be 

faced with back pain. Learn what you can do to prevent this common 

health problem at a free seminar on November 13. The details are on page 24. 


15


Riverview Experts 

Save Young Athlete’s Season 

Logan Whelan, 12, can’t imagine his life without sports. He 

loves baseball and lacrosse and was already looking ahead 

to basketball season when a tackle during a football game 

in fall 2011 threatened to put his athletic ambitions on hold. With 

his shoulder in severe pain, Logan was taken by ambulance to 

the Pediatric Care Center at Riverview Medical Center, part of 

Meridian Pediatric Network. 

There, Steven Lisser, M.D., a board certified orthopedic surgeon 

and sports medicine physician, diagnosed Logan with a shoulder 

fracture through the growth plate. This injury sometimes requires 

surgery, making Logan anxious about his athletic future. “He was 

in so much pain, but all he could think about was being healed 

in time for basketball,” recalls his mother, Larson. 


16 

Thanks to the expert care he received in the Emergency Department at 

Riverview Medical Center, Logan, 12, of Little Silver was able to quickly 

recover from a football injury in time for basketball season, helping his 

team go undefeated and win the championship. 

Steven P. Lisser, M.D. 

Board certified in Orthopedic Surgery 

and Sports Medicine 

Red Bank • 732-741-2313 

We Help Keep You Moving 

From nonsurgical treatment to major joint 

replacement, Riverview Medical Center is 

home to a team of experts and technology that 

can get you back on the tennis court, treadmill, or 

just doing the things you love. Find out more at 

RiverviewMedicalCenter.com/RMC/services. 

Easing Fears, Informing Family 

“Growth plates are the cartilage, or soft part, at the end of 

child’s bones where bone growth occurs,” explains Dr. Lisser. 

“Shoulders, hips, knees, and other joints are at high risk for 

injury at the growth plate because they are weaker, especially 

during children’s growth spurts.” 

Treatment of growth plate fractures depends on the 

severity of the injury. In certain cases, casting or splinting 

may be done to support and stabilize the fracture area, while 

complex fractures may require surgery to provide the best 

possibility for future bone growth. Logan was concerned 

about needing surgery since that would delay his return to 

sports. The Riverview team helped him cope. 

“Everyone in the Emergency Department was phenomenal 

in easing Logan’s fears and making him comfortable while 

keeping me informed,” Larson says. 

Quick Recovery 

Dr. Lisser concluded that for Logan’s type of fracture, surgery 

would not be necessary. Logan would need a conservative 

plan of care, including a sling, close monitoring, and some rest. 

“Not only was Dr. Lisser knowledgeable, I could tell he 

cared about Logan,” says Larson. “He knew how important it 

was to Logan to heal as quickly as possible. He didn’t want to 

perform surgery unless it was absolutely necessary, but he was 

careful to ensure that the bones were properly healed before 

letting Logan play again.” 

After only seven weeks, Logan began slowly using his arm. 

By December 5, he was healthy enough to accomplish one of 

his greatest goals: making his school basketball team, the Little 

Silver Warriors. 

“From the moment we arrived at Riverview, everyone bent over 

backward for us,” Larson says. “They understood our concerns, 

met our needs, and provided great care. I can’t thank them 

enough for what they did for Logan and couldn’t have asked for 

more as a parent.” • — Caitlin Coyle

Changes Keansburg Dad’s Life 

Keansburg resident Alex Cabezas knew he was 

overweight. But it wasn’t until the 40-year-old’s 

scale showed 307 pounds — a number he never 

thought he would see — that Alex realized he had to 

make a change. He turned to the Center for Bariatrics at 

Bayshore Community Hospital. 

“I had put surgery on the back burner before, but 

I was starting to feel unsafe,” says Alex, who also had 

diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea, a group of 

conditions that put his heart in danger. “I knew I wanted 

to have weight-loss surgery, but I wasn’t sure where to 

start. Then I heard about a lecture at Bayshore.” 


A Life-Changing Lecture 

The lecture was presented by Karl Strom, M.D., medical 

director of the Center for Bariatrics and a physician on 

staff at Bayshore. Afterward, Alex was so impressed 

he immediately scheduled his surgery. He opted for a 

procedure called a sleeve gastrectomy, which works by 

reducing the stomach’s volume so that it can’t hold as much. 

“During the gastric sleeve procedure, the stomach is 

narrowed into a thin sleeve, approximately the size and shape 

of a banana,” explains Dr. Strom. “The smaller stomach helps 

patients feel fuller with much smaller portions of food, while 

allowing for normal digestion and absorption of nutrients.” 

Alex underwent his surgery on February 3, 2012, with 

Dr. Strom and Silvia Fresco, M.D., a bariatric surgeon also on 

staff at Bayshore. Since then, Alex has lost nearly 100 pounds. 

After bariatric surgery helped Alex Cabezas lose 92 pounds, the Keansburg 

resident is more active than he’s been in 20 years. He maintains his healthy new 

lifestyle by working out, playing softball, and visiting the beach with his 9-yearold 

twin sons, Louis (left) and Alexander. 

‘A New Person’ 

Alex attributes his success to the comprehensive program 

the Center offers. Besides the surgery itself, Bayshore’s 

experts provide education and a lifetime of follow-up 

care and support to help patients keep the weight off. 

“I feel like a new person,” says Alex. “From the moment 

I attended the lecture through my follow-up appointments 

and support group, I have felt like part of a family. 

Everyone at Bayshore made me feel confident in my 

decision and helped me overcome any barriers so that I 

could concentrate on my surgery and getting well again.” 

You Can Change Your Life, Too 

Karl W. Strom, M.D. 

Board certified in General Surgery 

Holmdel • 732-739-5925 

“Every day I have a new ‘ah-ha!’ moment,” says Alex. 

“My greatest one was shortly after my surgery when my 

son hugged me and said, ‘Daddy, this is the first time I 

can put my arms around you.’ That was special. I think 

anyone considering weight-loss surgery should attend a 

lecture with Dr. Strom. It really did change my life.” • 

— Caitlin Coyle 

If you’re more than 100 pounds overweight and have been unsuccessful at losing weight with 

traditional methods, surgery may be right for you. Visit BayshoreHospital.org to learn more about 

the surgical options we offer, and see page 25 for the upcoming schedule of our free weekly seminars. 


17

K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital 

Specialized 

Pediatric Care 

Saves 

Choking 

Toddler 


18 

Lakewood mom Adina Greenbaum knew something was seriously wrong with her baby, Mickey, when he 

wouldn’t stop wheezing. Her local hospital couldn’t spot the problem, but an ENT expert in Meridian Pediatric 

Network could. Now, Mickey’s back to normal life with his mom and dad. 

It was a typical February afternoon 

in Lakewood. Mickey Greenbaum, 

age 11 months, was playing with 

his older brothers while their mom, 

Adina, made dinner. 

Suddenly, Adina noticed that 

something was wrong with Mickey. 

“I could tell he was choking and 

having difficulty breathing,” she says. 

“I was in a panic.” 

Like any parent in that situation, 

she reacted quickly. She swooped 

her finger into Mickey’s mouth and 

felt something in his throat. But in 

trying to get the object out, she 

lodged it further into his windpipe. 

She knew she had to call 911 to get an 

ambulance there immediately. 

Insisting on a Second 

Opinion 

At the local emergency department, 

doctors couldn’t find the cause of 

Mickey’s choking. “They took some 

X-rays and told me they didn’t see 

anything,” Adina says. 

Meanwhile, Mickey was still 

wheezing, and he could only breathe 

if he was lying on his back. When 

he sat up, the object obstructed his 

breathing completely. 

“I knew there was something in 

his throat,” Adina says, “and I felt 

very strongly about getting a more 

extensive evaluation.” 

Accessing a Team of Experts 

That’s when the Greenbaum family 

was transferred to K. Hovnanian 

Children’s Hospital at Jersey Shore 


“When we arrived at The Children’s 

Hospital, there was a whole team of 

nurses waiting for us,” Adina recalls. 

The family also met pediatric 

specialist Samuel Engel, M.D., an 

ear, nose, and throat physician 

with Meridian Pediatric Network. 

Dr. Engel explained that he would 

perform a specialized procedure 

called a bronchoscopy. Using a scope 

and camera, he would examine 

A Free Resource for Parents 

We’re pleased to offer you Check Up!, a complete guide 

to children’s health from Meridian Pediatric Network. 

For your copy, email us at kidviews@meridianhealth.com. 

Please write “Check Up” in the subject line. 

Samuel H. Engel, M.D. 

Board certified in 

Otolaryngology 

Neptune • 732-280-7855 

Mickey’s airway to look for foreign 

objects. “If a foreign object is seen, 

it can be removed at the same time 

through the scope,” Dr. Engel says. 

“This procedure is only performed by 

highly trained pediatric specialists.” 

With Mickey, the procedure was a 

success, and Dr. Engel returned to the 

boy’s parents within just 25 minutes. 

He carried a small container holding 

what had caused Mickey to choke: 

the tip of a green crayon. 

“We were very relieved that was 

out of him,” Adina says. 

Today, thanks to the responsive 

care and expertise of nurses and 

specialists at K. Hovnanian Children’s 

Hospital, Mickey is back to playing 

with his brothers and spending time 

with his parents at the park. • 

First Aid 

Advice Inside! 

Check Up! 

Your guide to kids’ health from 

Meridian Pediatric Network 

Tips for Choosing 

Your Child’s Doctor 

Save This Helpful 

Guide to Refer to 

All Year Long! 

Kid-Friendly Emergency 

Centers Near You!

Offers Tips for Staying Fit This Winter 

When the temperatures drop, don’t let your activity levels 

drop off, too — especially if you normally spend the 

holidays around the buffet table. Soccer player Christie 

Rampone offers tips for staying fit this season. 

“Living in a cold-weather state can be challenging in the 

winter, but I try to do outdoor activities as much as possible,” 

says Christie, an Olympic athlete, medal winner, working mom, 

and spokesperson for K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital at Jersey 

Shore University Medical Center. “I try not to use the weather as 

a reason not to exercise.” 

Taking the dog for a walk is a great way to exercise outdoors, 

Christie says. And so is sledding. “The longer and steeper the hill, the 

farther and harder it becomes to walk back up, and the kids love it!” 

Olympic athlete and working mom Christie Rampone doesn’t let 

winter weather interrupt her family’s fitness routine. Indoors or 

out, there are lots of ways to keep moving. 

Meridian Health 

Snow Day Safety Tips 

When it’s cold out, keep in mind these tips for staying safe and 

warm while working out: 

• Warm up first. Your muscles, ligaments, and tendons are 

more likely to get injured when cold. 

• Dress in light layers. The innermost layer should be made 

of breathable fabric that lets sweat pass through. Avoid 

tightly woven fabrics or heavy cotton sweats. The outer 

layer should protect you from the wind. “Technology has 

allowed for better winter clothes,” Christie says. “They’re 

lighter weight while still keeping you warm and dry.” 

• Don’t forget your hat. Up to 50 percent of body heat lost 

while outside comes from a bare head and neck. 

• Drink plenty of fluids. It’s easy to get dehydrated without 

realizing it in cold weather, so be sure to bring your water bottle. 

When to Move It Inside 

Another option is to move your favorite summer activity 

inside. Walk at the mall, swim in an indoor pool, or shoot 

hoops on an indoor court. 

You might also consider a gym membership for your family. 

“I attend the Training Room in Avon and Point Pleasant for kettlebell, 

cardio, and yoga workouts,” says Christie. “For the kids, you can rent a 

facility like Stainton Sports in Neptune for soccer or lacrosse.” 

At home, a new fitness toy — such as a stability ball, hand 

weights, an exercise DVD, or a fitness video game — can boost 

your motivation. 

“The hardest thing to do is get in shape after gaining weight 

and avoiding activity, so don’t let the cold weather and holiday 

time interrupt your routine,” Christie says. • — Gabriella Heizler 

Keep Up with Christie! 

Resident soccer star Christie Rampone offers more fitness 

tips and insights into parenting in her blog on Meridian 

Momtourage. Check it out today at MeridianMomtourage.com. 


19

Gift Ensures Ocean Medical Center Is 


Growing Together with 

Our Community 

Hirair and Anna Hovnanian 

The Hirair and Anna Hovnanian Emergency Care Center will more than triple the size of the existing 

Emergency Department at Ocean Medical Center. It’s part of a transformational gift of $5 million made by 

the Hirair and Anna Hovnanian Foundation Inc. to Ocean Medical Center in 2012. 


Nearly 50 years ago, Armenian 

immigrant and philanthropist 

Hirair S. Hovnanian 

purchased a parcel of land in Brick 

and developed his first Holiday City 

project. Since then, his company, 

Hovsons Inc., has built tens of 

thousands of homes and developed 

thousands of acres of land, much of 

it in Ocean County. 

With such close ties to the 

community, it’s not surprising that 

the Hirair and Anna Hovnanian 

Foundation Inc. decided to make a 

transformational gift of $5 million to 

Ocean Medical Center in April 2012 as 

part of the Medical Center’s Master 

Facility Plan, which includes a new 

Emergency Department. 

Originally designed to treat 

17,000 patients, Ocean’s Emergency 

Department now sees more than 

51,400 patients annually. Ranked 

among the best hospitals in the 

nation by U.S. News & World Report, 

Ocean is committed to upgrading its 

service as the community’s premier 

emergency care provider. 

The Hirair and Anna Hovnanian 

Emergency Care Center, named for 

Hirair and his wife of 53 years, Anna, 

will more than triple the size of the 

existing department. 

“My parents are deeply invested 

in both the local community and 

the Armenian community through 

philanthropy,” says Edele Hovnanian, 

vice president and director of 

the Hirair and Anna Hovnanian 

Foundation Inc., which also includes 

her four siblings. “My father is forever 

indebted to Ocean County for so 

much of his success, and he has made 

a conscious effort to ingrain in his 

children the importance of giving 

back to the community.” 

The gift, one of the largest ever 

given to an organization in Ocean 

County, was presented as a Challenge 

Gift. That means they will match, 

dollar for dollar, all funds raised from 

the community, up to $5 million. 

“As a foundation, we feel strongly 

that we should select projects that 

will have a lasting impact on the 

Help Us Invest in Ocean County’s Future 

community,” explains Edele. “Health 

care is constantly changing, and it is 

important for providers to be ahead 

of the curve and anticipate the future 

health care needs of the community. 

Ocean Medical Center is continuously 

designing their services for tomorrow, 

and we really respect that.” 

This inspirational gift will transform 

the way emergency care is provided. 

“The miracle of healing, the science 

of medicine, and the spirit of caring 

are provided every day at Ocean 

Medical Center. The generosity of 

our donors is essential to continue 

this important mission and to fund 

clinical innovation,” says Dean Q. Lin, 

president of Ocean Medical Center. 

The new facility is anticipated to 

open in February 2014. • 

— Gabriella Heizler 

The Growing Together Capital Campaign will fund emergency care 

enhancements at Ocean Medical Center and its satellite Emergency 

Department, the Ocean Care Center, in Point Pleasant. For more information 

about giving, call 732-751-5116. 

20

Meridian November/December 2012 

Community Health Programs 

All programs are FREE unless otherwise noted. Reserve your spot by calling 1-800-DOCTORS (1-800-362-8677) or 

1-800-560-9990 or by visiting MeridianHealth.com. In cases of severe weather, a program may be canceled as late 

as an hour before the start time. Call 1-800-DOCTORS or 1-800-560-9990 to confirm. 

Diabetes Awareness Day Events 

Whether you have diabetes or know someone who does, this 

event is for you. Experts in diabetes management and nutrition 

will be available for consultation. Screenings for cholesterol, 

blood glucose, and blood pressure will be provided. Vendors will 

display the latest information and technology and be available 

to assist with diabetes supplies and related questions. Light 

refreshments will be served. 

November 3, 10:00 a.m. – noon 

Southern Ocean Medical Center Lobby 

Lecture by endocrinologist Sajjad Hussain, M.D. 

November 9, 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. 


Lance Auditorium 

Free valet parking available 

November 15, noon – 1:00 p.m. lecture 

1:00 – 2:00 p.m. free screenings 

Meridian Fitness and Wellness at Hazlet 

Medicare GPS Information 

Sessions 

Meridian Health and Geisinger Health Plan have 

partnered to bring Geisinger Gold – a providersponsored 

Medicare Advantage product that is 

ranked as number six in the country – to Medicare 

beneficiaries in Monmouth and Ocean counties. 

We know that choosing the right Medicare plan 

can be confusing. So join Meridian and Geisinger 

for “Medicare GPS,” an information session to 

learn about Medicare, whether you’re new to the 

program or you’ve been in it for years and would 

like to know more. 

Please see page 26 for dates, times, and locations. 

Call 1-800-846-1583 to register. 

Vasser Low-Vision 

Awareness Day 

Adults ages 40 and older are at the greatest risk for eye diseases, 

including age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, and 

diabetic retinopathy. These diseases are often treatable in the 

early stages. Learn more about vision loss and the resources 

available. At 11:00 a.m., Surekha Collur, M.D., will present a lecture 

on common vision-stealing conditions, followed by glaucoma 

and cataract screening from noon to 2:00 p.m. Registration is 

required for screenings. Bring your unused eyeglasses to donate 

to the Lions Club. Light refreshments will be served. 

November 13, 11:00 a.m. – noon lecture 

Noon – 2:00 p.m. screenings 


Conference Rooms A and B 

Memory Awareness Day 

Meridian Health and the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America are joining 

forces to offer memory screenings during National Memory Screening Day. 

If you or a loved one is experiencing increased forgetfulness or trouble 

concentrating, performing familiar tasks, or recalling familiar words, you may 

benefit from a memory screening. Registration is required. 


Neptune Library 

25 Neptune Blvd. 


Stafford Library 

129 North Main St. 

November 13, 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. 

Manchester Library 

21 Colonial Drive 

November 14, noon – 3:00 p.m. 

Middletown Public Library 

55 New Monmouth Road 


Call 1-800-DOCTORS or 1-800-560-9990 to register for programs. 

21

Community Health Programs • Services • Events • Lectures • Screenings • 1-800-DOCTORS 

MERIDIAN CANCER CARE 

Knowing Your FAMILY 

History Can Save Your Life 

Join Meridian’s board certified genetic 

counselors as they discuss the importance 

of knowing your family health history and 

how this information can affect your health. 


Family Resource Center at the Ocean Club, 

Stafford Township 




Meridian Fitness and Wellness Center at Hazlet 

Freshstart Smoking 

Cessation 

This four-session smoking-cessation 

program is offered by Meridian Cancer 

Care and the American Cancer Society. 

Participants must come to all four sessions. 

November 6, November 8, November 13, and 


Ocean Medical Center, Conference Room C 

Look Good … Feel Better 

Get hair and makeup tips to help you 

look and feel better. The American Cancer 

Society offers this program to individuals 

being treated for cancer. 




STOP Smoking with Hypnosis 

Hypnotherapy helps you eliminate unwanted 

habits and develop positive behaviors and 

lifestyle changes. The fee is $30. 




Can Food Fight Cancer? 

Join us for this informative lecture that 

teaches you how to choose the right 

foods. You will learn the benefits of 

antioxidants and what role vitamins play in 

reducing your risk for cancer. 

December 5, 11:00 a.m. – noon 


Children’s Art Therapy 

Meridian Cancer Care offers art therapy 

for children ages 4½ to 13 who have 

experienced a loss or are dealing with 

a chronically or terminally ill loved one. 

Registration required. Call 732-530-2382. 

MERIDIAN 

CARDIOVASCULAR 

NETWORK 

Hypertension: What You 

Need to Know 

Join Rama Sambandan, M.D., as he discusses 

risk factors, symptoms, and steps you can 

take to control your blood pressure. 


Meridian Fitness and Wellness Center at 

Hazlet 

Heart Disease: ARE YOU 

AT RISK? 

Join cardiologist Shaddy Younan, M.D., as 

he discusses how you can take charge of 

your health by making positive lifestyle 

changes to reduce your risk for heart 

disease and stroke. 


Meridian Fitness and Wellness Center 

at Hazlet 

Living with CONGESTIVE 

Heart Failure 

Meridian CardioVascular Network experts 

will discuss the latest research, risk 

factors, symptoms, and tips for living with 

congestive heart failure. 

November 8, 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. 


Brennan Rooms 104/105 

With Kim McCourt, N.P. 

December 12, 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. 


at Hazlet 

With cardiologist Parveen Uppal, M.D. 

UNDERSTANDING BLOOD CLOTS 

IN YOUR LEGS 

Join Meridian experts to learn about deep 

vein thrombosis, including the causes, signs, 

symptoms, and latest treatments. 




With vascular surgeon Jeffrey Hager, D.O. 



at Hazlet 

With surgeon Michael Kassouf, M.D. 

COOKING WITH HEART FOR 

THE HOLIDAYS 

Move over, calories! We’re sharing the 

secrets for some favorite holiday dishes 

with a healthy twist. Food samples will be 

provided as a cardiologist and nutritionist 

discuss medical, lifestyle, and diet options 

that will keep you on track during this 

tempting holiday season. 



Conference Rooms A, B, and C 

HEART-HEALTHY HOLIDAY TEA 

Take a break between the holidays and 

join Tommy Ng, M.D., to learn how to keep 

your heart healthy while enjoying tea and 

healthy delights. 


Sea Oaks Country Club, Little Egg Harbor 

MERIDIAN NEUROSCIENCE 

Warning Signs of STROKE 

Strokes are the third leading cause of death 

and leading cause of disability in America. 

Join stroke coordinator Shirley Shook, R.N., 

as she discusses risks, signs, and symptoms 

and what to do in the event of a stroke. 



at Hazlet 

Solutions to BALANCE 

Problems 

Join experts from Meridian Rehabilitation 

as they discuss causes and treatment 

options for people who experience 

dizziness. Free screenings will be available 

after the lecture. Registration required. 


Meridian Life Rehabilitation, 

Point Pleasant Beach 




Express Yourself — Group 

Speech Therapy 

If you suffered a head injury or stroke and 

have already completed speech therapy, 

this class may be for you. You can continue 

to work on your communication skills in 

this program, which is held once a month 

for six months. For pricing and registration, 

call 732-836-4007. 

22 

Call 1-800-DOCTORS or 1-800-560-9990 to register for programs.

PARKINSON’s Exercise Class 

Designed and administered by physical 

therapists and exercise specialists, this 

program helps people with Parkinson’s 

improve their flexibility, balance, and 

strength, enabling them to perform 

everyday activities with greater ease. 

Call Meridian Life Fitness in Brick at 

732-836-4007 for fees and to register. 

Car Seat Safety Check 

Sponsored by the New Jersey State Police 

and the Trauma Center at Jersey Shore 

University Medical Center. No registration 

necessary. 

First Tuesday of each month 

3:00 – 8:00 p.m. 


Children’s Counseling 

Meridian Behavioral Health offers a variety of 

counseling services at both our Neptune and 

Shrewsbury locations. We offer age-specific 

group therapy, a therapeutic after-school 

program for children ages 7 to 13, and traditional 

individual and family therapy. Call 732-869-2784, 

ext. 2, for registration, schedules, and fees. 

MERIDIAN PEDIATRIC 

NETWORK 

Safe Sitter 

Meridian offers babysitting training for 

boys and girls ages 11 to 14 that covers basic 

child care, CPR, and behavior management. 

The fee is $40. Registration is required. 




Red Bank First Aid 

151 Spring St. 




Zumbatomic® Demo Class 

Designed for children ages 4 to 7, 

Zumbatomic classes are rockin’, highenergy 

fitness parties packed with specially 

choreographed, kid-friendly routines to 

music that they love. Registration required. 


Registration: 3:45 p.m. 

Demo class: 4:00 – 4:45 p.m. 

Meridian Life Fitness, Point Pleasant Beach 

Healthy Choices 

This program is for girls in grades 7 

and 8 and their moms to learn how to 

make healthy life choices and increase 

communication during these important 

teen years. Dinner and door prizes 

included. Registration required. 


Sea Oaks Country Club, Little Egg Harbor 

Children and Nutrition 

Maintaining a healthy diet is essential 

for children. Pediatrician Vanda Bruner, 

M.D., will host an informative lecture on 

preventing obesity and weight-related 

diseases such as diabetes in children. 

December 19, 7:00 – 8:00 p.m. 


CHILDBIRTH/MATERNITY 

CHILDBIRTH EDUCATION SERIES 

Meridian Health offers classes and seminars 

for first-time and experienced parents, 

as well as tours, classes for siblings, and 

more! Registration required. Please register 

before your third trimester. To learn more 

about our fun and informative classes, visit 

MeridianMomtourage.com. 

STRIKE A POSE: YOGA FOR 

MOMS AND MOMS-TO-BE 

Classes focus on gentle postures, breathing 

techniques, and relaxation to prepare for 

childbirth or recover after childbirth. Call 

Meridian Life Fitness in Point Pleasant at 

732-295-1778 for fees and to register. 

Annual Birthday PARTY 

and BABY Fair 

Expect more fun! Join Riverview 

Medical Center for an afternoon 

dedicated to the health and wellness 

of you and your growing family at our 

annual Birthday Party and Baby Fair. 

Participate in a number of interactive 

activities, hear the latest news and 

tips for mommies at all walks of life, 

and get a sneak peek at our beautiful, 

recently renovated Childbirth Center. 

Light refreshments will be served. 

Registration is required. 


Noon - 2:00 p.m. 

Joan and Robert Rechnitz Conference 

and Education Center at 


COUNSELING AND 

BEHAVIORAL HEALTH 

Addiction Recovery Services 

For adult family members of addicted 

individuals. Call for information. 

DIABETES 

COMPREHENSIVE Diabetes 

Management and Education 

The focus of diabetes education is on both 

the person with diabetes and the family. 

Meridian offers educational and support 

programs at all our hospitals on 

an individual or group basis for people 

with diabetes. In Monmouth County, call 

732-530-2555. In Ocean County, call 

609-978-3400. 

See Diabetes Month events on page 21. 

FITNESS 

Self-Defense Exercises 

Black belt instructor Walter Miller will 

teach you how to use balance and leverage 

to help defend yourself. Fee is $3 per class. 

November 1 and 15, and December 6 

12:30 – 1:30 p.m. 



Yoga for Golfers 

Join Meridian Life Fitness for this demo 

class and find out how doing yoga can 

improve your flexibility and your golf game. 



SOOTHING STRATEGIES for a 

STRESSFul World 

Join Meridian Life Fitness for a lecture on 

strategies for coping with stress. Learn 

relaxation techniques that will help. 


Ocean County Library, Point Pleasant Borough 

Gentle Fitness Classes 

Learn how exercise can improve your life. A 

variety of classes that include a combination 

of strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular 

exercises are offered. Options include the 

Arthritis Foundation Classes (land, pool, and 

Tai Chi), Zumba® Gold, Back Strengthening, 

and Balance Training. Call 732-206-8263 for 

fees and class locations. 



25 23


NUTRITION 

Mindful EATING During the 

Holidays 

A Meridian registered dietician will discuss 

mindful eating tips and explain how following 

your body’s signals can help you lose excess 

pounds and then maintain a healthy weight. 






Weight-LOSS STRATEGIES for 

the Holidays 

Join Meridian Life Fitness and learn how to 

stay focused on your weight-loss goals. 


Ocean Medical Center, Community Room 

Nutrition Counseling 

Consult a registered dietician to design a food 

plan that meets your weight-management 

and medical nutrition needs. To register, call 

Riverview Medical Center at 732-530-2555, 

Meridian Life Fitness at 732-206-8263, or 

Southern Ocean Medical Center at 609-978- 

3400 for fees and more information. 

Weight-LOSS and Wellness 

Programs 

Meridian Life Fitness offers a variety of 

weight-loss and wellness programs to suit 

your lifestyle, including the ability to meet 

with a wellness advisor. Call 732-206-8263 

for information, fees, and registration. 

ORTHOPEDICS AND 

SPORTS MEDICINE 

My Achy BACK 

Approximately 80 percent of Americans 

will suffer from back pain at some point 

in their lives. Learn what you can do to 

prevent it. 

November 13, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. 

Ocean Medical Center, Community Room 

Living with Knee Pain 

Join orthopedic surgeon Michael 

Cunningham, M.D., for this informative 

lecture as he discusses the latest treatment 

options for knee pain. 



This Joint is Jumpin’! 

Enjoy an afternoon of your favorite live 

jazz and swing music, brunch buffet, dance 

instructions from local studio experts, 

and more exciting activities that are sure 

to keep you moving! Information will be 

available about the extensive services the 

Total Joint Center at Riverview has to offer. 

December 1, 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. 

Joan and Robert Rechnitz Conference and 

Education Center at Riverview Medical Center 

SCREENINGS 

AngioScreen®: What You 

Learn Can Save Your Life 

This revolutionary new vascular 

screening is designed to provide 

you with information about your 

circulation and risk for heart attack 

and stroke. The screening checks 

your carotid artery, peak systolic 

velocity, abdominal aortic aneurysm, 

ankle brachial index, blood pressure 

in both arms, body mass index, and 

heart rhythm. Participants receive 

an instant color report of the 

findings, educational materials, and 

consultation with a registered nurse. 

Fee: $74.95. Registration required. 



Conference Room B 



Joan and Robert Rechnitz Conference 

and Education Center 





Meridian Fitness and Wellness Center at 

Hazlet, 2nd Floor Conference Room 

December 7, 9:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. 

Family Resource Center at the Ocean 

Club, Stafford Township 

BALANCE Screenings 

Minimize your risk for falls or episodes of 

dizziness. Call 732-206-8263 to register. 


Meridian Life Rehab at Ocean Medical Center 


Meridian Life Rehabilitation, Point Pleasant 

Beach 

Blood Pressure Screenings 

First and third Wednesday of each month 

9:00 – 11:00 a.m. 



Diabetes Foot Screening 

For an appointment, call the Wound Center 

at Southern Ocean Medical Center at 

609-978-3077. 

First Wednesday of each month 

Noon – 1:00 p.m. 

Ocean County 

Cholesterol and Blood 

Pressure Screenings for 

LOW-Income Seniors 

Funding provided by Ocean County Board 

of Chosen Freeholders for qualified 

residents ages 60 and older. Call for dates, 

times, and locations. 

SENIOR PROGRAMS 

Handling Holiday STRESS for 

Caregivers 

Caregivers are already juggling many things. 

Take some time for yourself and join us for 

lunch. We’ll discuss skills that will help you 

better balance family, caregiving, and the 

holidays. 

December 12, noon – 2:00 p.m. 



The Power of Aging 

Geriatrician William Power, M.D., will discuss 

the landmark moments in time regarding aging, 

the strides that have been made, and the 

treatments that can help us age successfully. 




AARP Driving Safety 

Program 

This one-day classroom presentation 

can reduce your car insurance costs! The 

fee is $12 for AARP members and $14 for 

nonmembers. Registration required. Call for 

dates, times, and locations. 

24 

Call 1-800-DOCTORS or 1-800-560-9990 to register for programs.

Forever Fit: Fitness Classes 

This fun fitness class is designed for mature 

adults. Classes include a combination 

of stretching, low-impact aerobics, and 

strengthening exercises. Call Meridian Life 

Fitness at 732-295-1778 for fees and details. 

pressure screenings will also be provided. 






Wellness Goals for 2013 

Learn the steps to achieve your fitness and 

weight-loss goals in the upcoming year. 



Mondays, Tuesdays, and Fridays 

8:30 – 9:30 a.m. 

Stafford Community Center, Manahawkin 

Tuesdays, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. 

Fridays, 11:00 a.m. – noon 

St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, Waretown 

Mondays and Fridays, 7:45 – 8:45 a.m. 

Barnegat Community Center, Barnegat 

WEIGHT-LOSS SURGERY 

Weight-LOSS Surgery: The FACTS 

Karl Strom, M.D., medical director of the 

Bariatric Center of Excellence at Southern 

Ocean Medical Center and Bayshore 

Community Hospital, and surgeons 

Jonathan Reich, M.D., and Silvia Fresco, 

M.D., will host educational programs on the 

benefits of weight-loss surgery. 



Ground Floor Conference Room 



Ramada Inn, 2373 U.S. 9, Toms River 

November 14, December 12, 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. 





Meridian Life Fitness, Point Pleasant 

Options for Weight-LOSS 

Surgery 

Join Seth Kipnis, M.D., for this program on 

the benefits of weight-loss surgery. 





GENERAL WELLNESS 

Home Care Services: Need a 

Little Extra Help? 

Meridian At Home will be available to answer 

questions, provide valuable information, and 

demonstrate the latest home technologies, 

medical equipment, and more. Free blood 

TIPS FOR A HEALTHY 

THANKSGIVING 

Join registered dietician Tanya Werkman 

and learn how to enjoy lighter versions of 

traditional holiday favorites. 



BROWN BAG YOUR 

MEDICATIONS 

Bring in your medications and supplements 

and have them reviewed by a registered 

pharmacist, who will discuss medication 

interactions and taking medications 

properly, as well as the interaction of 

supplements. Registration is required. 



Lance Auditorium 

ALL ABOUT HERNIAS 

Join surgeon Lauren Fischer, M.D., as 

she discusses causes, prevention, and 

treatment options for hernias. 



VARICOSE Veins: Causes and 

Treatment Options 

Varicose veins are dilated veins in your leg 

that may cause mild to severe pain. Come 

hear vascular surgeon Lawrence Mueller, 

M.D., explain what varicose veins are, their 

causes, and the latest treatment options. 

Free screenings will be provided. 


Lecture: 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. 

Screenings: 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. 



December 20 

Lecture: 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. 

Screenings: 7:00 – 8:00 p.m. 



GERD: Acid Reflux Disease 

Are you suffering from heartburn or acid 

reflux? Join David Hyppolite, M.D., and 

learn the signs and symptoms and the 

latest treatment options for GERD. 



at Hazlet 

MERIDIAN PROGRAMS 

AND SERVICES 

Booker Health SCIENCES 

Library Home Delivery 

The Booker Health Sciences Library at 


accepts requests from anyone looking to 

learn more about a medical topic, disease, 

or condition. The library sends a packet 

of reliable information to you at no cost. 

Contact the library by: 

Phone: 732-776-4265 

Fax: 732-776-4530 

Email: jsumclibrary@meridianhealth.com 

Clinical Trials 

Choosing to participate in a clinical trial is 

an important personal decision. To learn 

more about current clinical trials available 

at Meridian Health, please visit us at 

MeridianHealth.com, call 732-776-2953, 

or email us at clinicaltrials@ 

meridianhealth.com. 

CPR Training 

All Meridian hospitals are American Heart 

Association CPR training centers. Call for 

dates, times, locations, and classes offered. 

Infectious Disease Clinic 

Exams, testing, and treatment of sexually 

transmitted and other infectious diseases 

are available at this clinic, located at Jersey 

Shore University Medical Center. Call 

732-774-0151 to schedule a free, 

confidential appointment. 

Support Groups 

Meridian offers support groups for 

bereavement; caregivers; diabetes; anorexia 

and bulimia; breast, lung, prostate, thyroid, 

and other cancers; Alzheimer’s disease; 

stroke; Parkinson’s disease; sleep disorders; 

celiac disease; Mended Hearts; weight loss; 

and more. Call for more information, dates, 

and times. 



25

MEDICARE GPS INFORMATION SESSIONS 

Meridian Health and Geisinger Health Plan have partnered to bring Geisinger Gold – a provider-sponsored Medicare Advantage 

product that is ranked as number six in the country – to Medicare beneficiaries in Monmouth and Ocean counties. 

Seniors will now have access to a high-quality, cost-effective option for Medicare coverage that’s not currently available in this region, 

including better management of chronic conditions, better health care outcomes, and better access to covered services. 

You already know the doctors and nurses and trust the teams at Meridian Health and their commitment to high-quality care 

right in your community. Now, you have more ways to receive the right care at the right time from the right place. 

Join us for an upcoming Medicare GPS information session in your community. 

Sessions are offered at 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. on each date except where indicated. 


Ocean County 

November 1: 










December 4: 

December 5: 

Whiting Retail Office, 550 Route 530, Whiting, NJ 

10:00 a.m. only, Family Resource Center at The Ocean Club Fitness Center, 

700 Route 9 South, Stafford Township, NJ 

Clarion Hotel and Conference Center, 815 Route 37 West, Toms River, NJ 


Family Resource Center at The Ocean Club Fitness Center, 700 Route 9 South, 

Stafford Township, NJ 



Family Resource Center at The Ocean Club Fitness Center, 700 Route 9 South, 

Stafford Township, NJ 


(Both sessions are GPS, not enrollment meetings.) 



10:00 a.m. only, Family Resource Center at The Ocean Club Fitness Center, 

700 Route 9 South, Stafford Township, NJ 

Monmouth County 

November 2: Meridian Fitness and Wellness, 1420 Highway 36, Hazlet, NJ 

November 8: Radisson Hotel, 50 Gibson Place, Freehold, NJ 


November 13: Courtyard by Marriott, 1302 Campus Parkway, Wall Township, NJ 


(Both sessions are GPS, not enrollment meetings.) 

November 19: Radisson Hotel, 50 Gibson Place, Freehold, NJ 



December 3: Courtyard by Marriott, 1302 Campus Parkway, Wall Township, NJ 

December 5: Meridian Fitness and Wellness, 1420 Highway 36, Hazlet, NJ 

Call 1-800-846-1583 to register. 

26 Call 1-800-DOCTORS or 1-800-560-9990 to register for programs.

Take a Closer Look 

at Your Eye Health 

Diseases such as glaucoma, cataracts, diabetic eye disease, and 

age-related macular degeneration can rob you of your sight. 

But you may not notice changes in your vision right away. 

Thankfully, there are ways to detect these diseases early, when they’re 

most treatable. 

Eye Exam May See Problems Before You Do 

“A dilated eye exam — in which the pupil is widened with drops to 

allow a closer look at the eye — can help your eye doctor find disease 

at an early stage,” says Walter Kahn, M.D., FACS, ophthalmologist with 

Riverview Medical Center. If you’re younger than age 60, don’t have 

any special risk factors, and aren’t having vision problems, see the eye 

doctor for a thorough exam about every two to four years. 

If you are age 60 or older, or are at risk for any of these causes of 

blindness, you may need more frequent exams: 

• Glaucoma can strike anyone, but African-Americans older than 

40, anyone older than 60, and people with a family history of the 

disease are most at risk. They should get the exam at least once 

every two years. 

• Diabetic eye disease can affect people with diabetes at any age. 

Go for an exam once every year. 

• Age-related macular degeneration is more common in people who 

are older than 60. However, it can occur at any age. Women are at 

higher risk than men, as are those who are Caucasian, are obese, 

smoke, or have a family history of the disease. Anyone older than 

60 should have the exam every two years. 

Healthy Lifestyle, Healthy Eyes 

“In general, the healthier you are, the greater your odds of avoiding 

eye problems,” says Dr. Kahn. These strategies can help: 

• Eat foods rich in vitamins A, C, and E. Examples include oranges and 

strawberries (vitamin C), almonds (vitamin E), and carrots (vitamin A). 

• Exercise regularly. 

• Keep your blood pressure under control. 

• Avoid smoking. 

• Wear protective eyewear when working with strong chemicals such 

as oven cleaner, operating motorized equipment, or playing sports 

such as racquetball or basketball. 

• Protect your eyes from ultraviolet (UV) light by wearing sunglasses 

and a wide-brimmed hat when in the sun. Choose sunglasses that 

block at least 99 percent of UV rays. 

See More Clearly 

Walter J. Kahn, M.D., FACS 

Board certified in Ophthalmology 

Red Bank • 732-741-0858 

The Latest in LASIK 

Technology 

The Vision Correction Center 

at Riverview Medical Center is 

the only hospital in Monmouth 

and Ocean counties to offer the 

latest 100 percent blade-free 

LASIK technology available, 

the IntraLase iFS (femtosecond) 

laser. The iFS laser is a highly 

sophisticated way to prepare the 

eye for LASIK, without a blade 

ever touching it. 

“The LASIK procedure has never 

been safer or more precise, 

thanks to the blade-free IntraLase 

method,” says Walter Kahn, 

M.D., FACS, ophthalmologist 

with Riverview Medical Center. 

“I’m proud to offer our patients 

this advantage close to home at 

Riverview.” 

Considering LASIK? Learn more about the latest techniques offered at Riverview Medical Center. 

Call the Vision Correction Center at 732-530-2295 or visit RiverviewMedicalCenter.com. 

Healthy Highlights 


27

Solve the Puzzle of Your Pills 



Are you mystified by your 

medicine cabinet? 

Almost half of all Americans take at 

least one prescription drug. While 

these medications make our lives 

healthier and easier, they can also 

make it more complicated. Which pill 

should you take with food? Which one 

can’t you have with juice? How can you 

keep everything straight? Meridian’s 

experts help you solve the puzzle. 

Take an Interest in 

Interactions 

Taking more than one medicine — 

whether it’s a prescription drug, an 

over-the-counter remedy such as 

cough syrup, or a vitamin or herbal 

supplement — raises your risk for an 

interaction. “This occurs when one 

medication affects how well another 

works, or when the combination causes 

side effects,” explains Susan Rodriguez- 

Bostock, M.D., of Ocean Medical 

Center. Some interactions are serious, 

she notes. For example: 

• Aspirin helps keep blood from 

clotting, but taking aspirin while 

you’re on a blood thinner can lead 

to excessive bleeding 

• Decongestants can raise your blood 

pressure to dangerous levels if you 

also take blood pressure medication. 

• The herb ginkgo can cause 

bleeding, and ginseng may alter 

the amount of time it takes for 

bleeding to stop, which could lead 

to blood clotting if you’re taking a 

blood thinner. 

• Supplements, such as 

multivitamins that have iron, may 

keep tetracycline, a common 

antibiotic, from working. 

Doris MacDonald, age 88, is an avid seamstress 

who also makes jewelry. She lives at Bella Terra, 

a retirement community in Jackson. Doris uses 

Meridian At Home’s medication management 

program, MediSuite, to manage her medications so 

she can stay healthy and remain independent. 

28

You can help prevent interactions 

by reading all your medication labels. 

“Remember to tell your doctor about 

everything you take as well,” says 

Dr. Rodriguez-Bostock. “He or she 

will rely on this information when 

deciding what type of medication to 

prescribe for you.” 

An Rx for Organization 

An easy way to keep track of all 

your medications is to draw up 

a schedule. Dalia Hanna, M.D., of 

Bayshore Community Hospital, 

recommends these tips: 

• Write it down. For each medicine, 

list the name, the dose, how often 

you take it, and the time of day. 

Also write down why you take 

it, such as for “blood pressure,” 

“breathing,” or “cholesterol.” 

Include any over-the-counter 

medicines, vitamins, and herbal 

medicines you take regularly, as 

well as medication you take as 

needed. 

• Share your schedule with a family 

member or friend. “Your loved one 

can help you remember to take 

your medicines on a daily basis or 

while traveling,” says Dr. Hanna. 

“Making sure someone else has 

your schedule is also important 

in case a health emergency leaves 

you unable to communicate.” 

• Post it. Keep your schedule on the 

refrigerator or another place where 

you’ll see it every day. 

• Keep it current. Whenever your 

medicines change, update the list 

on your schedule and replace all 

outdated lists. 

• Give a copy to each doctor you 

see. Your doctors need to know 

about all your medicines to make 

sure they can be safely taken 

together. 

• If you are admitted to the hospital 

or need to call 911, bring a copy 

with you. When you’re ready to go 

home, have a nurse or pharmacist 

review your schedule and add any 

new medicines. 

Be Vigilant After a 

Hospital Visit 

Keeping up with new prescriptions 

after a hospitalization is especially 

difficult. But taking steps before and 

after leaving the hospital can help 

you protect yourself. 

“Take an active part in your 

medical care. Find out as much as 

possible about each medication 

before taking it,” advises Angelo 

Chinnici, M.D., of Jersey Shore 

University Medical Center. He 

suggests asking these questions of 

doctors and nurses at the hospital, 

your primary care doctor, or your 

pharmacist: 

• What is this medication for? 

• Should I avoid certain prescription 

and over-the-counter drugs, foods, 

supplements, and activities while 

taking this medicine? 

• What side effects might occur? 

What should I do if I experience 

them? Can I do anything to lower 

my risk for them? 

• What should I do if I forget a dose? 

• Should I take this medication 

before, during, or after meals? 

Make sure you understand the 

answers and track the information 

in your scheduling chart. “Don’t be 

afraid to ask your doctor questions. 

He or she knows you best,” adds 

Dr. Chinnici. 

Save Money with Generics 

If you see a lot of medicines in 

your scheduling chart, you may 

start seeing something else: dollar 

signs. In many cases, generic drugs 

can help you save money on your 

medications. 

“Generic drugs are safe and 

effective alternatives to brand-name 

drugs,” notes William Power Jr., M.D., 

Making Sense of Your Medications 

Dalia N. Hanna, M.D. 

Board certified in Family Medicine 

Matawan • 732-566-2363 

William K. Power Jr., M.D. 

Board certified in Internal 

Medicine and Geriatric Medicine 

Forked River • 609-693-9240 

Susan Rodriguez-Bostock, M.D. 

Board certified in Family Medicine 

Jackson • 732-367-0166 

Angelo Chinnici, M.D. 

Internal Medicine 

Asbury Park • 732-775-7978 

of Southern Ocean Medical Center. 

“They are identical to their 

brand-name counterparts in terms 

of active ingredients, dosage, and 

quality.” And according to the U.S. 

Food and Drug Administration, they 

can be 30 percent to 80 percent 

cheaper than the brand version. 

Why are generics less expensive? 

“When a drug is first made, it’s 

covered by a patent, which protects 

the company that developed it,” says 

Dr. Power. “When the patent expires, 

however, other companies can 

start making and selling that drug, 

without the expense of research and 

development. Then, they pass those 

savings on to the consumer.” • 

At WellnessCenter.MeridianHealth.com, you’ll find a wealth 

of online resources to help you manage your medications. Click on 

“Library,” then “Drug Reference,” for a comprehensive listing of drugs and 

a drug interaction checker. 


29

Become our next featured community 

member. See details below. 

My 

health views on … 

Forked River resident Dawn McIntyre, 

R.N., is a self-described couch potato 

who has worked hard to find ways to 

enjoy exercising. Here’s how the 

52-year-old does it. 

… making every move count. 

I used to see exercise as black or white: Either I went 

to the gym or I didn’t. Now I look for ways to be 

active throughout the day whether or not I work out. 

I take the stairs instead of the elevator. I walk my dog 

or clean the floors. It all adds up! 

… sticking with it. 

I became friends with some of the regulars at the 

gym. One is an aerobics instructor who asked me to 

come to her class. The first couple of times I went, 

I’d go left while the rest of the class went right. But I 

kept moving! Now I look forward to seeing my friends 

when I go to the gym, which helps motivate me to go. 

… de-stressing. 

At least once a week I take a yoga/Pilates class. I’ve 

learned so much about connecting with my breath, 

and it has helped me to be so much calmer. Whenever 

I feel stressed, I just take some deep breaths and 

release it. 

Dawn McIntyre enjoys some outdoor exercise on the boardwalk in Spring Lake. She 

looks for ways to be active throughout the day, whether or not she fits in a workout. 


Picture This: 

Your Photo and Story in Meridian HealthViews! 

Are you part of a workout team? Do you exercise or play 

a sport with a friend, sibling, neighbor, or coworker? We 

want to hear about it! Email your story to healthviews@ 

meridianhealth.com or post it at www.facebook.com/ 

MeridianHealthNJ. You could be featured in an upcoming 

issue! As a thank-you, everyone who submits a story for 

consideration will receive a FREE cookbook full of healthy 

recipes! 

30

The weight is over! 

FREE Information Seminars 

Bayshore Community Hospital, Holmdel 

November 1 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. 

Old Bridge Library, One Old Bridge Plaza 


Meridian Fitness & Wellness, Hazlet 


Double Tree Hilton, Tinton Falls 


Register for our FREE seminar 

and learn more by calling 

800.560.9990, and by visiting 

www.BayshoreHospital.org/Bariatrics 

There’s a safer, healthier way 

to lose weight and keep it off. 

At the Center for Bariatrics at Bayshore Community Hospital, your 

weight loss struggle can be over. Our specialists will guide you through 

the entire process — from pre-surgery consultation through follow-up 

care and programming. We provide a comprehensive list of services 

including the revolutionary LAP-BAND ® System with benefits such as: 

• No stomach stapling or intestinal re-routing 

• Less than 24-hour hospital stay 

• Adjustable and completely reversible 

• Only FDA approved weight-loss surgery 

• 10 times safer than gastric bypass 

Karl Strom, M.D., 

is one of the most 

highly recognized 

bariatric surgeons 

in the nation. 

Your weight is over. Join us at a free seminar. 


New Jersey

Non-Profit Org. 

U.S. Postage 

PAID 

Meridian 

Health 

One Riverview Plaza 

Red Bank, NJ 07701 

Timothy J. Hogan, FACHE 

Regional President 

727 North Beers Street 

Holmdel, NJ 07733 

Timothy J. Hogan, FACHE 

Regional President 

Inside! 

Take a closer 

look at your 

eye health 

page 27 

1945 Route 33 

Neptune, NJ 07753 

Steven G. Littleson, FACHE 

President 

1945 Route 33 

Neptune, NJ 07753 

Steven G. Littleson, FACHE 

President 

425 Jack Martin Blvd. 

Brick, NJ 08724 

Dean Q. Lin, MHA, MBA, FACHE 

President 

1140 Route 72 West 

Manahawkin, NJ 08050 

Joe Coyle 

President 

Printed on Recyclable Paper 

6116A 

Visit us on the Web at RiverviewMedicalCenter.com and BayshoreHospital.org. 

This Joint Is Jumpin’ 

– by Tim Hogan, Regional President 

Total joint replacement is one of the 

great orthopedic surgical advances. Just 

as no two patients are alike, no two 

joint replacements are exactly the same. That’s 

why at The Total Joint Center at Riverview 

Medical Center, our care is precisely focused on 

the unique medical and lifestyle needs of each 

patient. Our expert surgeons, fully coordinated 

team of clinical staff, and physical therapists 

give you access to a multi-disciplinary team of 

specialists to provide a full continuum of care 

from diagnosis to rehabilitation. 

For many patients, the road to treatment 

and eventual recovery seems an overwhelming 

task. At the Center, a program coordinator helps 

patients navigate the journey back to mobility 

by guiding them, and their family, through 

the transition from pre-operative education, 

Put on Your Dancing Shoes! 

to surgery, to on-site physical therapy and 

rehabilitation to home. The “Morning at the 

View” program is a unique, comprehensive 

pre-admission experience specialized for total 

joint replacements. It provides a comprehensive, 

personalized, and convenient approach to all 

pre-operative testing and education. 

The Center is focused on evidencebased 

care, which translates to exceptional 

quality. The Center is certified by the Joint 

Commission and is composed of a 100 

percent nationally certified nursing team, as 

well as board certified physicians. In fact, the 

program has so many success stories that an 

Alumni Program has been formed, allowing 

new patients to connect with past patients 

should they have questions about their 

upcoming total joint or spine experience. 

To celebrate these successes, Riverview 

invites ladies and gents to put on their 

dancing shoes for the first ever “This Joint Is 

Jumpin’” jazz brunch and dance on Saturday, 

December 1, 2012, 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., in the 

Joan and Robert Rechnitz Conference and 

Education Center at Riverview. 

Guests will enjoy an afternoon of their 

favorite jazz and swing music and a brunch 

buffet, as well as dance instruction from local 

experts Christina Penatello and Ken Hansen, 

owners of Fred Astaire Dance Studio in Red 

Bank and ranked in the top six in the U.S. 

Information will be available about The Total 

Joint Center’s extensive services and offerings. 

The “This Joint Is Jumpin’” jazz brunch and dance is planned for December 1, and 

it’s free. Registration is required and space is limited. To RSVP, call 800-560-9990 

or visit RiverviewMedicalCenter.com.

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