Spring 2011 (PDF) - Glens Falls Hospital

Issue 

# 37 

Spring 

2011 

C o n n e c t i o n s 

Quarterly 

See this and previous issues of Connections at www.glensfallshospital.org 

Main Streets Go Blue 

By Gail Infante, CSP 

The Cancer Services Program (CSP) at Glens Falls 

Hospital coordinated Main Streets Go Blue in 

downtown Glens Falls from March 4-11. The goal 

of this campaign was to raise awareness of colon 

cancer and to encourage people to get screened. 

We are one of just 8 cities throughout New York 

State to be chosen for this campaign. 

Downtown Glens Falls businesses partnered 

with us and displayed blue lights in 

their store windows to show support. Each 

store has information to share with the public 

about the importance of colon cancer 

screening, and how to get a free screening 

if you don’t have health insurance. During 

the week of March 7-11, between 11:00 

and 3:00, a representative from the Cancer 

Services Program was at The Crandall Public 

Library to give out educational information and 

to enroll eligible people for screenings at no cost 

to them. 

A free, and open to the public Blues Party was 

held at the Queensbury Hotel on Monday, March 

7 th from 6-8pm. The Gary Brooks Band with 

Milayne Jackson and a chili cook-off rounded out 

the evening. Colon cancer educational displays 

and opportunities to enroll for free screenings was 

available. 

The first 10 people to complete a screening will be 

(Continued on page 10) 

Get the Kit! 

By Wendy Waldron, CSP 

When it comes to colorectal cancer, there is some 

very good news. Screening tests are both effective 

and affordable. The Centers for Disease Control 

(CDC) says that if every American over the age of 

50 had regular screening tests, we could reduce the 

number of people who die of this disease by more 

than 60%! 

Everyone knows about colonoscopies. 

They are the “gold standard” for both 

screening and removal of polyps. But 

whether it’s the cost, the time, or the 

thought of the procedure itself - not everyone 

is willing or able to get a colonoscopy. 

Have you ever heard of the FIT Kit The 

Cancer Services Program (CSP) and Glens 

Falls Hospital health centers started offering 

the FIT Kit last fall. 

Fecal occult blood testing using an immunochemical 

methodology – those are the official words 

used to describe this new and improved stool sample 

test. You receive a kit from your healthcare 

provider. At home, you use a stick to obtain a tiny 

amount of stool. You return the test to the doctor, 

often by mail. Take-home tests that look for blood 

in the stool, have been around for decades. The 

newest type is much more effective and easier to 

use than the ones available in the past. 

With the older style tests, there were food and 

(Continued on page 10)

Survivorship 

This Scary Disease Called Cancer 

By Carol Newton 

It was warm and sunny as 

Thanksgiving day was approaching. 

I was getting all my 

plans in place for a family gettogether 

at my home in Salem. 

Unknown to me at that time, my holiday plans 

would be changed forever; the changes would be 

good and not so good. 

I had recently been treated for hemorrhoids and 

due to swelling and bleeding I had a colon exam 

scheduled. Once the test was complete the doctor 

came in with the results. "You have colorectal cancer". 

My world, as I knew it, stopped. What would 

I tell the kids How would I tell them When 

would I tell them A thousand questions went 

through my brain all at once, like a run away car, 

out of control in fast forward to nowhere. I felt I 

had lost control of my life. 

Thinking about my kids again I realized that I 

needed a plan. I was the mom and I needed to help 

them get through this too. My youngest was away 

at college. I certainly wasn't going to tell him over 

the phone. I decided that since he was coming 

home a few days before Thanksgiving - that would 

be the day for the news. I called my daughter and 

told her to come down on that day as well so we 

could plan for our holiday. 

The week went by fast as I kept my secret. That 

night I was so nervous. I sat with my son and told 

him before my daughter got there. "I have some 

not so good news but everything will be okay" I 

said. I knew I had to stay positive for them. I went 

through the same routine with all of them, including 

my granddaughter, who said to me “You aren't 

going to die, are you Grandma" There were lots 

of tears and holding each other. I ended each conversation 

with "Okay, tears gone. Let's enjoy ourselves 

and have some fun!" And we did. 

I went alone to the Cancer Center and I was so 

scared. In my mind I associated cancer with death 

(2) 

and I was not ready for that! The first doctor I met 

was Dr. Dolinsky, a Radiation Oncologist. He explained 

the procedures to me and that all my doctors 

would discuss my case and decide the best 

avenue to take for me. I told him, with tears in my 

eyes, that I felt I had lost control, that I didn't like 

going to doctors and that I didn't like to put medicines 

or chemicals in my body. Chemotherapy 

really scared me. He told me they were all a team 

and were there for my welfare. I was the head of 

the team and they wouldn't do anything without 

my consent. They all worked for me. Those last 

words put me at ease. I felt like I was somewhat in 

control of my life again. Next I met Dr. Gillani, 

my Medical Oncologist. He also made me feel at 

ease explaining what his job would be. 

I then met the surgeon at his office. The following 

day he called me at home and told me he didn't 

feel he was the right doctor to do the surgery. He 

said he could do it, but he felt his partner Dr. Lieberth 

had more experience with colorectal cancer. 

He had trained under a renowned specialist in the 

field for several years and he could give me a better 

chance. I changed doctors. When I met Dr. Lieberth 

I really liked him. He was very straight forward 

and didn't sugar coat anything. He put me at 

ease right away. At one point I asked him what his 

choice would be if it was him or his family going 

through this. He told me if it was his wife going 

through this he would recommend the radiation 

with chemotherapy, then the operation. I went with 

his suggestion. With all this information and my 

team in place I had made another decision. This 

was going to be just another fight I had to confront 

on my path through life. 

I had problems with the chemo and they had to 

stop. I sailed through the radiation. The surgery 

went well even though I had a few rough days until 

we discovered that I couldn't tolerate the pain 

medication. Once that was resolved I was ready to 

leave. I now had a colostomy and I learned to adjust 

my life to it as I recovered at home. The 


Your Cancer Center Care Team 

Andrew Morrison, RN, 

Hematology Oncology Clinic 

Andrew recently joined the Medical 

Oncology Department and is 

working with Dr. Mark Hoffman. 

He received a Bachelor’s Degree in Secondary 

Education at SUNY Plattsburgh and an Associate’s 

Degree in Nursing at SUNY Adirondack. 

Andrew worked previously on T2 - the Oncology 

Inpatient Unit - as a Nurse’s Aide and most recently 

as an Registered Nurse. 

Andrew and his fiancé, Shannon, reside in Warrensburg 

with their dog, Joey. They plan to be 

married in June and honeymoon in Central and 

South America. He enjoys playing golf, reading a 

good book and is an avid Yankee Fan. 

Jessica Ross, Medical Assistant, 


Jessica recently joined the Oncology 

Team as a part-time Medical 

Assistant. Jessica is a full-time 

nursing student at Maria College in Albany. She 

worked the past five years as a Front Office Coordinator 

at Mollie Wilmot Radiation Oncology 

Center in Saratoga. Jessica is looking forward to 

graduating in June 2012. She plans to pursue her 

Bachelor's Degree, specializing in Oncology. 

Jessica resides with her parents in Corinth. She 

has two sisters and enjoys spending time with her 

nieces and nephews. Jessica plays the piano and 

enjoys time with her four Persian cats. 

Darryl Gray, RN 


Darryl recently joined the Medical 

Oncology Department as a full-time 

Registered Nurse working with Dr. 

John Stoutenburg. Darryl received an Associate’s 

Degree in Nursing in 2009. He received a Bachelor’s 

Degree in History from Castleton State in 

2003. Darryl served in the United States Marine 

Corps for seven years and worked for Prospect 

Child and Family Center for three years. Before 

joining the Oncology Team, Darryl worked on 4 

West as a medical / surgical nurse for a year. 

Darryl and his wife, Kim (a middle school math 

teacher) have three children: Adam (10), Abigail 

(7) and Payton (5). Darryl enjoys watching classic 

movies, reading and spending time with his wife 

and children. 

Katie Lapishka, 

Medical Secretary 

Katie recently joined the Oncology 

Team as a part-time Medical Secretary 

in Reception. She received an 

Associate’s Degree in Liberal Arts from SUNY 

Adirondack in 2005 and a Bachelor’s Degree in 

Biology from the College of Saint Rose in 2007. 

Katie worked for one year as an Accounts Receivable 

Specialist and was Office Manager for a Cardiologist 

Office for over two years. 

Katie and her husband, Stuart, live in Salem with 

their five-month old son, Ethan. She enjoys going 

for walks, playing Sudoku and spending time with 

her family. 

Janet Finkle, Medical Secretary 

Janet recently joined the Oncology 

Team as a part-time Medical Secretary 

in the Medical Records Department. 

She is a Certified Medical 

Transcriptionist. Janet has worked in various positions 

at Glens Falls Hospital, including working 

out of her home as a Medical Transcriptionist for 

(3) 

the past five years. 

Janet shares her home in South Glens Falls with 

her two cats, Ally and Lester. She enjoys walking, 

hiking, photography, reading, crafts and spending 

time with family and friends.

Food for Thought 

2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans Released 

By Joan Butler, RD, CSO, CDN, CNSC, CDE 

The United States Department of Agriculture 

(USDA) and the Department of Health and Human 

Services (HHS) have released the next set of 

Dietary Guidelines for Americans. These guidelines, 

supported by evidence based data, provide 

guidance to promote health, reduce the risk of 

chronic disease (including some types of cancers), 

and reduce the prevalence of overweight and obesity 

through improved nutrition 

and physical activity. 

The ultimate goal of the guidelines 

is to improve the health 

of our nation’s current and future 

generations by facilitating 

and promoting healthy eating 

and physical activity so that 

those behaviors become the 

norm among all individuals. 

Because more than one-third 

of children and more than twothirds 

of adults in the United 

States are overweight or obese, 

the 7th edition of the Dietary 

Guidelines for Americans 

places stronger emphasis on 

reducing calorie consumption 

and increasing physical activity. 

The guidelines encourage 

us to consume more healthy foods like vegetables, 

fruits, whole grains, fat free and low fat 

dairy products and seafood, and to consume less 

sodium, saturated fat, trans fats, added sugars, and 

refined grains. 

There are 23 key recommendations in all for the 

general population: 

1. Prevent or reduce overweight and obesity 

through improved eating and physical activity 

behaviors. 

2. Control total calorie intake to manage body 

weight. For people who are overweight or obese 

this will mean consuming fewer calories from 

(4) 

food and beverages. 

3. Increase physical activity and reduce time spent 

in sedentary behaviors. 

4. Maintain appropriate calorie balance during 

each stage of life: childhood, adolescence, adulthood, 

pregnancy and breastfeeding and old age. 

5. Reduce daily sodium intake to less than 2300 

milligrams. 

6. Consume less that 10% of calories from saturated 

fatty acids by replacing them with monounsaturated 

and polyunsaturated 

fatty acids. 

7. Consume less than 300 mg 

cholesterol per day. 

8. Keep trans fat consumption 

as low as possible. 

9. Decrease the intake of calories 

from solid fats and added 

sugar. 

10. Limit consumption of foods 

that contain refined grains especially 

refined grain foods that 

may contain solid fats, added 

sugar and sodium. 

11. Consume alcohol in moderation 

- up to one drink per day 

for women and 2 drinks per day 

for men. 

12. Increase vegetable and fruit 

intake. 

13. Eat a variety of vegetables 

especially dark greens, red and 

orange vegetables and dried beans and peas. 

14. Consume at least one-half of grains as whole 

grains. 

15. Increase intake of fat free or low fat milk 

products. 

16. Choose a variety of protein foods, including 

seafood, lean meat, poultry, eggs, beans, peas, soy 

products, unsalted nuts and seeds. 

17. Increase the amount and variety of seafood 

consumed by choosing seafood in place of some 

meat or poultry. 

18. Replace protein foods that are high in solid 


Pharmacy Corner 

Xgeva TM for Bone Strength in 

Patients with Metastatic Cancer 

By Beth Sponzo, RN, BS, OCN ® 

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has recently 

approved Xgeva TM (denosumab) to help 

prevent skeletal-related events (SREs) in patients 

with cancer that has spread (metastasized) and 

damaged the bone. Skeletal-related events include 

bone fractures from cancer and bone pain requiring 

radiation. 

Xgeva TM is a monoclonal antibody that targets a 

protein involved in cancer-related bone destruction 

called human RANKL. Other FDA-approved 

drugs for similar conditions include Zometa ® 

(zoledronic acid) and Aredia ® (pamidronate disodium). 

Xgeva TM is not approved for patients with multiple 

myeloma or other cancers of the blood. 

“Bone metastases represent a major cause of pain 

and suffering in patients with cancer and can affect 

a patient’s quality of life,” said Richard Pazdur, 

M.D., director of the Office of Oncology Drug 

Products in the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation 

and Research. “Xgeva TM has a different mechanism 

of action than currently approved drugs 

aimed at reducing bone complications from cancer.” 

Xgeva’s TM safety and effectiveness were confirmed 

in three randomized, double-blind clinical 

studies in 5,723 patients comparing Xgeva TM with 

Zometa ® . One study involved patients with breast 

cancer, another in patients with prostate cancer, 

and a third included patients with a variety of other 

cancers. 

The studies were designed to measure the time 

until occurrence of a fracture or spinal cord compression 

due to cancer or until radiation or surgery 

for control of bone pain was needed. 

In patients with breast or prostate cancers, Xgeva 

TM was superior to Zometa ® in delaying SREs. 

In men with prostate cancer, the median time to an 

SRE was 21 months with Xgeva TM compared to 17 

months with Zometa ® . 

In patients with breast cancer, the median time to 

an SRE was 26 months with Zometa ® and has not 

yet been reached with Xgeva TM . In patients with 

other solid tumors, time to development of an SRE 

was similar for both Xgeva TM and Zometa. The 

most common solid tumors were non-small cell 

lung cancer, multiple myeloma, kidney (renal) 

cancer, and small cell lung cancer. 

The most serious side effects experienced with 

Xgeva TM were low calcium levels in the blood 

(hypocalcemia), and osteonecrosis of the jaw, a 

severe disease resulting from reduced blood flow 

to areas of the jaw and exposed jaw bone, causing 

pain, swelling, numbness, or infection. 

Denosumab was originally approved under another 

trade name, Prolia, in June 2010. Prolia is indicated 

to treat postmenopausal women with osteoporosis 

who are at high risk for bone fractures. 

Xgeva TM is administered using a higher dose and 

with more frequent dosing than Prolia. Denosumab 

has a different safety profile in patients with osteoporosis 

than in patients with cancer and bone metastases. 

Sources: 

http://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/ 

PressAnnouncements/ucm234346.htm 

"When I let go of what I am, I become what I might be." ~ Lao Tzu ~ 

(5)

Offering Support Services in Concert with Medical Care 

For general questions about cancer or support services available, please call Oncology Resource Nurses: 

Vickie at 926-6639 or Paul at 926-6629 

Services for Individuals by Appointment 

Care Management 

For: Continuing care needs, transportation and financial 

concerns 

Info: Patty Godnick, RN ~ 926-3316 

pager ~ 969-1211 

Donna St. Hilaire, RN ~ 926-3322 

pager ~ 926-5038 

For: 

Info: 

Nutrition Counseling 

Nutrition advice for cancer prevention and 

during or after cancer treatment 

Joan Butler, RD, CSO, CDN, CNSC, CDE 

~ 926-2609 

Patient Financial / Insurance Assistance 

For: Referrals, prior authorizations, billing, 

insurance questions 

Info: Michele Staunches ~ 926-6637 

For: 

Info: 

Psychosocial Oncology 

Counseling for patients and/or their families 

Gerry Florio, Ph.D. 

Karen Cook , LMSW, OSW-C ~ 926-6619 

Resource Nurses 

For: Individuals & family diagnosed with any cancer 

Meets: By appointment or stop by (office is across the hall 

from the Cancer Center Library) 

Info:: Vickie Yattaw, RN, OCN ® CBCN~ 926-6639 

Paul Miller, RN, OCN ® ~ 926-6629 

Uniquely You® Boutique & Salon 

For: Any cancer patient 

free wigs, hats & turbans, skin & hair care 

Meets: By appointment on Tuesdays in the 

C. R. Wood Cancer Center 

Info: Call 926-6640 for an appointment 

Look Good … Feel Better® 

American Cancer Society 

For: Women Cancer Survivors 

Meets: C. R. Wood Cancer Center Library 

Info: Call 1-800-395-LOOK for date and time 

Maratelle 

For: Breast care and lymphedema products 

Meets: By appointment on Thursdays in the 

Uniquely You® Boutique & Salon 

Info: Vickie Yattaw, RN, BSN, OCN ® ~ 926-6639 

Spa Services at Cindy’s Healing Place 

(Reiki and Massage Therapy) 

For: Cancer patients during and after treatment 

Meets: By appointment in Cindy’s Healing Place 

Info: Call 926-6640 for an appointment 

Special Programs Pre-Registration Required 

Annual Survivors Events 

Breast Cancer Survivor Luncheon - October 

Spring Survivorship Breakfast 

Call Vickie at 926-6639 for information 

Call Paul at 926-6629 for information 

CG Men’s Retreat 

For: Men living with and beyond cancer 

Meets: One weekend each year in late Summer 

Info: Paul Miller, RN, OCN ® ~ 926-6629 

Cindy’s Comfort Camp 

For : Children and teens ages 6-17 years who have 

experienced the death or serious illness of a parent 

or close relative 

Meets: One weekend each Spring and Fall at the Double 

“H” Hole in the Woods Ranch in Lake Luzerne, NY 

Info: 926-6515 www.cindysretreat.org 

(6) 

Cindy’s Retreat 

For: Women living with and beyond cancer 

Meets: One weekend each Spring and Fall at 

Silver Bay on Lake George 

Info: Karen Cook, LMSW ~ 926-6619 

www.cindysretreat.org 

Tobacco Cessation 

Whether you’re thinking about quitting or ready to quit, 

call the NYS Smokers’ Quitline for help and support. 

1-866-NY-QUITS (1-866-697-8487)

Open Support Groups 

These groups are open-ended and you may come as you wish. 

You may want to call if you are new or you have not come for some time to make sure 

that the schedule or location has not changed or that a special event has been scheduled. 

Discussion Groups 

ABC Support Group 

(After Breast Cancer) 

For: Individuals with breast cancer 

Meets: 4th Monday each month 

6:00 P.M. ~ Cancer Center Waiting Room 


Blood Cancer Support Group 

(Leukemia & Lymphoma Society) 

For: Individuals & their family diagnosed with 

lymphoma, leukemia or multiple myeloma 

Meets: 2nd Wednesday each month 

6:00 P.M. ~ Cancer Center Library 

Info: Karen Cook, LMSW, OSW-C ~ 926-6619 

Paul Miller, RN, OCN ® ~ 926-6629 

Family Connections 

For: Children, teens and parents facing life after 

illness or loss of a loved one 

Meets: 3rd Thursday each month during school year 

5:30 P.M. ~ Moreau Elementary School 

Info: Gerry Florio, PhD ~ 926-6528 

Featured Speakers Group 

(Information Presented on Cancer Related Topics) 

For: Anyone interested 

Meets: 1st Tuesday each month 6:00 P.M. 

Cancer Center Waiting Room 

Info: Vickie Yattaw, RN, BSN, OCN ® ~ 926- 6639 

Living with Hope 

For: Individuals with advanced or recurrent cancer 

Meets: 3rd Thursday each month 


Info: Gerry Florio, Ph.D. ~ 926-6528 

Prostate Cancer Awareness Group 

(American Cancer Society - Man to Man) 

For: Men with prostate cancer and their families 

Meets: 3rd Thursday each month 

7:00 P.M. ~ Cancer Center Waiting Room 


Rays of Hope 

For: Women with ovarian cancer 

Meets: 3rd Wednesday each month 


Info: Mary Davis ~ 656-9321 

Carol Smith ~ 793-0565 

Activity Groups 

Circle of Hope Knitting Group 

For: Cancer Survivors who want to learn to knit 

and crochet. Teachers available for new 

knitters 

Meets: Wednesdays ~ 1:00 P.M. 

Cancer Center Library 


Healthy Steps © 

For: Gentle exercise for individuals with a cancer 

diagnosis 

Meets: Weekly for six weeks on Tuesdays at 10:00 am 

Auditorium B/C 

Greenwich class meets on Fridays at 11:15AM 

- call for location 


Monthly Meditation and Relaxation Group 

For: Individuals & family diagnosed with any 

cancer 

Meets: First Thursday each month 

1:00 P.M. ~ The Chapel on 1Central 

Info: Gerry Florio, Ph.D. ~ 926-6528 

Tai Chi 


Meets: Monday afternoon at 3:30 P.M. and 

5:30 P.M. Auditorium B-C 


Ways of Seeing - Art Workshop 

For: Individuals & family diagnosed with any 

cancer who want to enjoy the life affirming 

pleasures of making art 

Meets: 2nd and 4th Tuesday each month 

11:30 A.M. ~ Cancer Center Library 


Weekly Mindfulness Meditation Group 


Meets: Wednesday evening at 6:30 P.M. 

The Chapel on 1 Central 

Info: Rev. Jeffrey Palmer ~ 926-3531 

(7)

Support Services Program Dates 

Open Support Group Dates (Monthly) 

ABC Support Group 

Mondays - April 25, May 23, 

June 27 

Blood Cancer Support Group 

Wednesdays - April 13, May 11, 

June 8 

Family Connections 

Thursdays - April 21, May 19, 

June 16 

Featured Speakers Group 

April 5 - Kevin Campopiano and Donna Bassett 

Ancient Therapies + Modern Problems = 

Timeless Relief - Reiki and Acupuncture in 

Modern Health Care 

May 3 - John Faherty, MS, Chief Physicist, 

Radiation Safety Officer - Radiation Safety 

and Medicine 

June 7 - Joseph Connors, Esq., Director of 

Albany Law Clinic & Justice Center - 

Surviving Survival: Short and Long Term 

Disability, Social Security, and the Right to 

Return to Work 

Weekly Mindfulness 

Meditation Group 

A meditation group meets in the Chapel on the 

first floor each Wednesday, 6:30 to 7:45 pm. 

Each meeting begins with a five to ten minute 

guided exercise of concentration on the breath. 

Then there is a reading from one of the many 

books or magazines on the subject of mindfulness. 

Sometimes we include an audio selection of a 

meditation teacher's thoughts on the integration of 

mindfulness with daily living. This is followed by 

a short program of connecting mindful breathing 

with body awareness. Then we end with relaxed 

focus on music and a general question and answer 

period. 

Please call Rev. Jeffrey Palmer at 926-3531 if you 

have any questions about this group. 

(8) 

Living With Hope 


June 16 

Meditation and Relaxation Group 


June 2 

Prostate Cancer Awareness Group 


June 16 

Rays of Hope 

Wednesdays - April 20, May 18, 

June 15 

Ways of Seeing Art Workshop 

Tuesdays - April 12 & 26, May 10 & 24, 

June 14 & 28 

Spring Survivorship 

Celebration 

Come join us on April 2nd at 9:00 am for the 

Second Annual Spring Survivorship Celebration at 

Fort William Henry. Invitations have been mailed 

but if you did not receive one please let us know 

and we will gladly get one to you. 

Just call Paul at 926-6629 or e-mail Paul at 

pmiller@glensfallshosp.org by March 25th if you 

would like to come but did not receive an invitation 

Any area cancer survivor and their guest can join 

us (the space is limited to 175 people) so send 

back your response now! 

The buffet breakfast starts at 9:00 am and at about 

10:30 am Dr. Joel Goodman from the HUMOR 

Project will present “Survive AND Thrive - Tickle 

Stress Before it Tackles You”. Door prizes and 

fun are included along with the beautiful setting of 

Lake George. Please look at Dr. Goodman's preview 

on page 12 for more information.


(Continued from page 2) 

hardest thing was adjusting the foods I ate so I was 

able to regulate my stool consistency. I found I 

couldn’t eat potato skins or tomato skins. I didn't 

digest them properly and they blocked my colon. 

That sent me to the hospital for a week with dehydration. 

I was on T-2, what a caring, giving, compassionate 

staff. It was like being in a five star resort. 

They even had Reiki and massage available. 

After I recovered from the operation I was back on 

a different kind of chemotherapy. The cancer had 

not only affected the colon and sphincter muscle, 

but it had also spread to part of the vagina. Four of 

seventeen lymph nodes were also affected. This 

time I tolerated the chemotherapy better. When I 

came in for my chemo we all did a lot of laughing 

and joking around. Laughing and smiling is a great 

way to reduce the stress. It certainly has helped 

me. The staff in the treatment center is just great. 

I met Vicki Yattaw on one of my visits. She informed 

me of the various programs and activities 

available through the Cancer Center. Since I 

moved down here 25 years ago, I had only two 

friends, some of my family, my daughter and her 

family and my son who was away at college most 

of the time. I needed to build a support network; I 

needed friends. I needed to do things to keep me 

positive for myself and the kids. I needed to laugh 

more. I needed a release. In the past I had done 

some guided imagery to help alleviate stress and I 

started this again. I joined the Healthy Steps class 

for the camaraderie and I made an appointment for 

Reiki. I knew nothing about Reiki at the time. It 

turned out to be a great decision and I highly recommend 

it. 

Healthy Steps has become my group for a mild 

form of exercise and a great source of friendship 

and fun. Some of my best friendships started in 

this class. It is a time to forget your problems and 

have fun. The exercise has helped with many of 

the issues we deal with from the cancer and the 

treatments of the disease. Vickie Yattaw and Laurie 

Hughes lead this group. Vickie is also a very 

informed nurse who will take the time to listen, 

answer your questions or guide you to the right 

source for your answers. Laurie is an excellent 

(9) 

Massage Therapist, who also takes the time to listen 

and help you with information. She will teach 

you a stretch or an exercise to relieve problem areas 

which we all have from time to time. They lead 

a very caring, loving and supportive group of ladies. 

Reiki has been my savior and has kept me sane 

through my cancer journey. Reiki means universal 

life energy, which circulates through all things and 

is stored in our bodies' chakras. During disease 

these get "stopped up". Our thoughts also have the 

power to direct energy through our body as well as 

to block or stop the flow. Reiki helps to reestablish 

the flow of energy in our bodies, directing the energy 

to the vital organs and tissues. It also helps 

reduce pain levels. For me Reiki created a very 

calming but energetic presence. The energy levels 

I was able to maintain have been very helpful in 

my recovery. 

Reiki is Dawn Judkins' field of expertise. She is 

very good at her profession. Reiki is not a one time 

thing. It may take three or four visits to reap the 

rewards. Dawn is very good at guiding you 

through, as well as teaching you to be aware of 

yourself, releasing yourself for balancing and a 

better mind, body and spirit connection. 

My first cancer diagnosis was in the fall of 2009. 

In the summer of 2010, the cancer recurred with 

disease in my liver and lung. Reiki helped me 

maintain energy, feel less pain and heal at a much 

faster rate then most people could believe. Three 

weeks out of surgery for my liver and I was back 

to most of my favorite activities. The lung operation 

and recovery went well too. 

There are two more groups that have been very 

helpful to me. The first is an art class taught by 

Paul Miller. It gives us a means to escape our 

thoughts of cancer and our concerns of the moment 

which we all need. Paul is a very good 

teacher and a friend to all of us. His class is fun 

and we all have a lot of laughs. The second one is 

a baton twirling class that evolved from the 

Healthy Steps class. I teach this. It is my way of 

giving back some of what I have been given from 

a very great cancer center and staff. The class 


Main Streets Go Blue 


entered in a raffle to win gift certificates from 

downtown Glens Falls businesses. 

The Main Streets Go Blue campaign was truly a 

community based effort that was made possible by 

the many volunteers who donated their time and 

talent, and the local downtown Glens Falls businesses 

that so generously contributed. 

You should talk with your doctor if you have any 

questions about which screening might be right for 

you. If you or someone you know doesn’t have 

insurance, please call 926-6570 to learn if you may 

be eligible for free screenings. 

Relay For Life Dates 

Queensbury June 3-4, 2011 

Saratoga and Greenwich June 10-11, 2011 

Get the Kit! 


medicine restrictions to observe for a couple days 

before gathering your samples. The FIT Kit tests 

for blood that comes only from the lower GI tract. 

So you can bite your lip while you eat a rare steak 

and take your blood thinner just before doing the 

FIT Kit….the test will only report blood if it 

comes directly from your intestines. That blood is 

most likely caused by a polyp. A polyp is an abnormal 

growth on the inside of your colon; over 

time these can become cancerous. The American 

College of Gastroenterologists and the CDC both 

recommend this screening option for folks with an 

average risk of developing this disease. 

Did you know that most health insurance plans, 

including Medicare, help pay for colorectal cancer 

screening If you are uninsured and need cancer 

screening, the Cancer Services Program of Warren, 

Washington and Hamilton Counties can help 

you get free cancer screening. 

2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans 

Released 


fats with choices that are low in solid fat and 

calories. 

19. Use oils to replace solid fats when possible. 

20. Choose foods that contain more potassium, 

dietary fiber, calcium, and Vitamin D - a concern 

in American diets. 

21. Select an eating pattern that meets nutrient 

needs over time and at an appropriate calorie level. 

22. Account for all foods and beverages consumed 

and assess how they fit within a total 

healthy eating pattern. 

23. Follow food safety recommendations when 

preparing and eating foods to reduce the risk of 

food borne illness. 

For more detailed information on these guidelines 

visit: www.cnpp.usda.gov/DGAs2010- 

PolicyDocument.htm 

Be sure to check out the appendix section which 

contain food charts, calorie level suggestions and 

more. 

(10) 

Best Wishes Pat 

And Thank You 

For All You 

Have Given Us 

Pat Spencer-Cisek recently 

accepted a position at 

Mount Sinai in New York City. Pat has thirteen 

years of service at the C. R. Wood Cancer Center, 

most recently as the Executive Director of Oncology 

Services. She has been instrumental in creating 

so many of the positive qualities of our program. 

Many may recognize her as the nurse in the 

“Our Promise” advertisements. As it was her vision 

that created Connections nearly ten years ago, 

we would be remiss if we didn’t acknowledge her 

many accomplishments. 

We will miss her and Promise her and our patients 

that we will continually maintain the high standards 

of care and compassion that she has so consistently 

modeled. Goodbye and good luck with 

your next adventure Pat.



helps to reduce the effects of chemo brain and 

other physical and mental challenges we are left 

with after treatment. The twirls and movements 

have been adjusted to fit the abilities of the members 

who are ages 40 to 80. These ladies, all cancer 

survivors, had never twirled before our class. They 

do a fantastic job. It is a time for camaraderie, exercise 

for the brain and body and lots of laughs. 

Our group has been appropriately named the 

Twisted Twirlers. This spring the director (myself) 

and the Twisted Twirlers are being inducted 

into the NYS Twirling Hall of Fame. This is a 

great accomplishment and honor. 

At this point in time I am glad to say I am cancer 

free. I believe I have been given many gifts which 

I would not have had otherwise. Cancer has 

brought me a lot of great new experiences, many 

new fantastic friendships and people in my life. I 

now have a more direct, less worrisome and fulfilling 

life style. It didn't bring death like I thought. 

Yes, cancer kills but so do car accidents and other 

diseases. I have learned we can't give up even 

when a boulder is placed in our path rather than 

the usual pebble. If we do, we miss all the good 

things along the way. I hope we meet along our 

paths someday because we can smile, laugh, hug, 

talk and see all the good in each other. We would 

not have noticed all these positive things had it not 

been for this scary disease called cancer. 

Cancer Services Program (CSP) 

Glens Falls Hospital provides a New York State 

Department of Health Cancer Services Program 

grant that funds breast, cervical and colorectal cancer 

screenings and follow-up testing at no cost for 

uninsured women and men. If you or someone you 

love is without health insurance, call today at: 

1-800-882-0121 or (518) 926-6570. 

Connections Editorial Board 

Joan Butler, RD, CSO, CDN, CNSC, CDE Kelle Engel, RN, BSN, OCN® Melissa Engwer, RN 

Paul Miller, RN, OCN® Nannette Oberhelman, CCRP Pat Spencer-Cisek, MS, ANP, AOCN 

Beth Sponzo, RN, BS, OCN® Suzannah Virgil, Secretary Donna Winchell, RN, BSN, OCN® 

Vickie Yattaw, RN, OCN®, CBCN 

Connections is published quarterly by the Charles R. Wood 

Cancer Center at Glens Falls Hospital, 

102 Park Street, Glens Falls, NY 12801. 

Phone: 518-926-6640 Fax: 518-926-6643 

www.glensfallshospital.org 

Connections is available on this web site 

Contact the Editor: Paul Miller, RN, OCN ® 

926-6629 

pmiller@glensfallshosp.org 

The information in this newsletter is for educational 

purposes only and is not intended to be used as medical 

advice. Please consult your physician for questions 

regarding your treatment. 

(11) 

If you are unable to view us on the internet and 

would like to receive Connections at home please 

call, write, or e-mail: 

Paul Miller, RN, OCN ® 

926-6629 

C.R. Wood Cancer Center 

Glens Falls Hospital 

Glens Falls, NY 12801 

pmiller@glensfallshosp.org 

Please let us know if you wish to be 

removed from our mailing list.

Survive AND Thrive: Tickle Stress Before It Tackles You 

Presented by Dr. Joel Goodman 

at the 

April 2nd Spring Survivorship Celebration 

Here is a great opportunity for you to celebrate April as National Humor Month… and to celebrate your own 

sense of humor at the same time! This learning-filled, laughter-fueled, fast-paced, fun session offers workable 

wit and wisdom to help you: 

(1)Focus on the nature of humor through the brilliant Steve Allen Principle for finding fun and seeking smiles 

in otherwise serious reality. 

(2)Understand how humor can enrich your life (potent personal payoffs). 

(3)Nurture your own sense of humor by developing your comic vision and by practicing the art of laughing at 

yourself. 

Dr. Joel Goodman is the founder and director of The HUMOR Project, Inc. based in 

Saratoga Springs (www.HumorProject.com). The HUMOR Project is the first organization 

in the world to focus full-time (or is it “fool-time”) on the positive power of 

humor. More than 3 million people have attended their programs in the past 34 years. 

Joel is the author of 8 books— including Laffirmations: 1,001 Ways to Add Humor to 

Your Life and Work— everyone in attendance will receive a free copy of this book 

(which Joel would be glad to sign). Joel’s pioneering work has been featured in 

5000+ TV and radio shows, newspapers and magazines in 150+ countries. He joined 

Willard Scott and Meadowlark Lemon of the Harlem Globetrotters in receiving the 

International Lifetime of Laughter Achievement Award. Joel is one of only two professional 

speakers in the world to have presented on all seven continents. In support of the C.R. Wood Cancer 

Center’s important work, Joel will extend a special discount to April 2nd attendees who would like to sign 

up for The HUMOR Project’s 54 th international conference on “Survive AND Thrive: The Positive Power of 

Humor and Creativity” that takes place on June 10-12th at scenic Silver Bay Conference Center on Lake 

George. This conference features appearances by Noel “Paul” Stookey of Peter, Paul and Mary fame as well 

as Edison Pena, the rescued Chilean miner who personifies “Survive AND Thrive”. 

Inside Connections 

Feature: Main Streets Go Blue, Get the Kit! . . . . . . . Page 1 

Survivorship: This Scary Disease Called Cancer . . . . . . Page 2 

Your Cancer Center Care Team . . . . . . . . Page 3 

Food for Thought: 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans Released . . . Page 4 

Pharmacy Corner: Xgeva TM for Bone Strength in Patients with Metastatic Cancer . Page 5 

Support Services . . . . . . . . . . Page 6-7 

Support Services Program Dates 

Weekly Mindfulness Meditation Group, Spring Survivorship Celebration. . . . Page 8 

Best Wishes Pat And Thank You For All You Have Given Us . . . . Page 10 

Cancer Services Program (CSP) . . . . . . . . Page 11

Spring 2011 (PDF) - Glens Falls Hospital

You also want an ePaper? Increase the reach of your titles

Delete template?

Save as template?