Exclusive Interview - Trinitas Hospital

Winter 2009 

Exclusive Interview 

Caroll Spinney 

Beyond Feathers and Fur 

Walking Tall Again 

Partial Implant Puts 

Patients on the Go 

HealthWise 

News You Can 

Use For Your 

Good Health 

Photo Credit: Victor DiNapoli

Welcome to… 

Magazine 

WINTER 2009 

Trinitas Regional Medical Center begins 2009 with a commitment to providing outstanding health care services to 

the community even as our organization is experiencing the stresses of the difficult economic climate. Our long history 

of health care services for citizens of Elizabeth, Union County and the entire Central New Jersey region continues to 

energize us. 

Our new name sends a powerful message as we move forward with a committed work force of medical, nursing and 

health care professionals and an array of exemplary services at our 10 Centers of Excellence. This year, our medical staff 

is welcoming new members in the specialities of oncology and urology. In addition, our investment in the most 

advanced tools for surgery — the DaVinci Robotics system and RapidArc - the newest development in radiation therapy 

— makes it clear that we intend to create an environment rich in cutting-edge technology. We plan to make prudent 

fiscal decisions to maintain our position as a thriving health care organization in a climate in which other facilities are 

experiencing dramatic changes and closures. 

In keeping with our redefined identity as a regional medical center, there will be additional exciting developments 

throughout 2009. We’re building on past successes of this decade and look forward with anticipation to celebrating 

our 10th anniversary in 2010. 

Enjoy this issue of HEALTHYEDGE which provides a glimpse of the novel and innovative surgical procedures and 

state-of-the-art treatments that we offer. There is also upbeat coverage about how we encourage and support women 

who are facing the challenge of cancer. And, if you’ve ever wondered about the heart and soul of Big Bird and Oscar 

the Grouch of Sesame Street, you'll meet the human beneath the feathers and fur in our exclusive interview. 

On behalf of our entire organization, I wish you good health in 2009. But rest assured that if you need medical care 

Trinitas Regional Medical Center is here with quality care for body, mind and spirit. 

Sincerely, 

Gary S. Horan, FACHE 

President & CEO 

WINTER 2009 1

CONTENTS 

WINTER 2009 

Victor M. Richel 

Chairman, Trinitas Health & Hospital 

Board of Trustees 

Gary S. Horan, FACHE 

President & CEO, Trinitas Hospital 

HEALTHYEDGE STAFF 

Executive Editor. . . . . . . . . . . . Doug Harris 

Director of Public Relations and Marketing 

Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kathryn C. Salamone 

Manager, Public Relations and Marketing 

Contributing Writers . . . . . . . . Bob Badner, 

Julie Jacobs, Rena Sandberg, Judith Trojan 

Contributing Photographers . Doug Harris, 

Al Kruper, Kathryn C. Salamone, 

Paul Schneck 

Graphic Design . . . . . . . . . . Jama Bowman 

ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: 

Rob Rubilla 

(908) 337-3276 

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: 

Healthy Edge 

Public Relations Department 

Trinitas Hospital 

225 Williamson Street 

Elizabeth, New Jersey 07207 

If you are not interested in your copy of 

HEALTHYEDGE which is sent to you free of 

charge, please feel free to pass it along to 

someone else. 

2 HEALTHYEDGE 

FEATURES 

3 Beyond Feathers and Fur 

Interview with Caroll Spinney of Sesame Street 

10 Walking Tall Again 

Innovative Appliance Supplies Relief for Knee Pain 

13 HealthWise 

News You Can Use for Your Good Health 

26 Nursing Care in the Battle Against Addictions 

28 Advanced Images Help Improve Cardiac Diagnoses 

30 Sisters of Charity Bring Thoughtful Caring 

to Special Ministries 

33 Singing the Praises of Trinitas Regional 

Medical Center 

38 Cancer Survivors Put Best Foot Forward 

IN EVERY ISSUE 

24 Community Calendar 

34 Foundation Focus: 

News of the Trinitas Health Foundation 

40 Hospital Beat: 

People and Events of Note 

42 Vital Signs: 

Trinitas Comprehensive Cancer Center News 

44 News of the City of Elizabeth 

The HEALTHYEDGE - Winner of 

the 2007 NJ/IABC IRIS Award! 

Trinitas Hospital is a Catholic Teaching Hospital sponsored by the Sisters of Charity of Saint Elizabeth 

in partnership with Elizabethtown Healthcare Foundation. 

HEALTHYEDGE Magazine is published quarterly by Trinitas Hospital and Trinitas Comprehensive 

Cancer Center, 225 Williamson Street, Elizabeth, NJ, 07207. 

This is Volume 2, Issue 4. This material is designed for information purposes only. None of the 

information provided in Healthy Edge constitutes, directly or indirectly, the practice of medicine, the 

dispensing of medical services, a professional diagnosis or a treatment plan. The information in 

Healthy Edge should not be considered complete nor should it be relied on to suggest a course of 

treatment for a particular individual. You should not rely on information provided in Healthy Edge 

as a substitute for personal medical attention, diagnosis or hands-on treatment. You should never 

disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in Healthy 

Edge. If you have any health care related concerns, please call or see your physician or other 

qualified health care provider.

HEALTHYEDGE EXCLUSIVE 

Beyond Feathers and Fur 

CAROLL SPINNEY BRINGS HUMANITY 

TO BIG BIRD AND OSCAR THE GROUCH by Judith Trojan 

Master puppeteer Caroll Spinney has been the spirit and spine of Big Bird and 

Oscar the Grouch since Sesame Street‘s premiere episode on November 10, 1969. 

But it is as Big Bird that Spinney has encouraged four generations of children to be 

patient and kind from the vantage point of a fellow six-year-old, and also taught 

them the alphabet, their numbers and what it means to be a friend. 

Compassionate and gracious, not unlike the Bird he cohabits, Spinney has 

also loved working “off the Street.” Big Bird has traded quips on 146 episodes 

of Hollywood Squares; hit the road to China with Bob Hope; danced with the 

Rockettes and prima ballerina Cynthia Gregory; and conducted 70 symphony 

orchestras throughout the U.S., Canada and Australia. En route, Big Bird has been 

fêted with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and celebrated with his likeness 

on a U.S. postage stamp. 

Spinney’s prized mantelpiece, once owned by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, 

is also chockablock with awards of all shapes and sizes. As Big Bird, Spinney was 

named a “Living Legend” in 2000 by the Library of Congress and takes great 

pride in his 2006 Lifetime Achievement Emmy Award, his five other Emmys, two 

Gold Records and two Grammy Honors. He’s the 2003 recipient of the “Legacy 

for Children Award” and the 2004 James Keller Award, the latter from The 

Christophers for his lifelong contributions to the craft and spirit of children’s 

television and puppetry. 

Interviewed by phone from his country home in Connecticut, Spinney at times 

choked with emotion as he recounted his passion for puppetry that began at age 

five and continued throughout his innovative work with Muppet visionary Jim 

Henson on Sesame Street and beyond. 

A year after the debut of Sesame 

Street, Big Bird visited the White 

House and met then First Lady 

Pat Nixon. 

“I’m certain that being 

a bird has made me a 

better person.” 

Source: NARA 

INTERVIEW 

— Caroll Spinney 

Big Bird debuted on the very first 

installment of Sesame Street. How 

have you fine-tuned his character 

over the years 

CS: Big Bird is a child who never 

grows up, which is a delightful character 

to play. But he didn’t start out that 

way; originally, he was a country yokel 

and not very bright. That was Jim 

Henson’s original concept. Big Bird 

even looked terrible. He hardly had any 

feathers above his eyes. 

The scripts led me to feel that Big 

Bird would be more useful if he were a 

surrogate child, not a big goofy guy 

hanging around the kids. This way he 

could learn the alphabet along with 

the kids at home. I thought, ‘I won’t 

do it overnight, but I’m going to 

lighten up his voice.’ It just got higher 

and higher. 

He also couldn’t read or write at 

first, so I figured he’s four or four-anda-half. 

Within two years, Big Bird was 

quoting a little four-line poem, 

‘A Poem by Big Bird.’ At that point, 

I decided he was six years old because 

he could read pretty well. 

Big Bird’s compassion has endeared 

him to audiences of all ages. Didn’t 

your encounter with an old man 

one snowy night during Christmas 

season inspire that trait 

CS: Yes. Around 78th Street, I 

passed an elderly man shuffling his feet 

at the edge of the sidewalk, taking tiny 

Continued on page 4 

WINTER 2009 3

A New Smile… 

A New You! 

IMPLANTS & 

COSMETIC DENTISTRY 

Personal encounters 

Start With a Smile… 

Sometimes Nature 

Needs A Little Help 

• Implant Placement/Resortation 

• Invisalign 

• Veneers 

• Periodontics - Orthodontics 

• Bonding 

• Crowns/Re-Construction 

All Phases of General Dentistry 

Nitrous Oxide Analgesic 

EMERGENCY SERVICE AVAILABLE 

Center of 

DENTAL SERVICES 

Dr. Richard J. Lukenda 

Dr. Richard L. Sufficool 

Dr. Richard Lukenda 

Insurance Claims Processed 

Convenient Financial Arrangements 

FOR APPOINTMENT & CONSULTATION 

908-925-8110 

www.centerofdentalservices.com 

Se Habla Español 

My Mowimy Po Posku 

Fala Se Portuguese 

924 NORTH WOOD AVE. 

LINDEN 

Hours: Monday - Saturday & Evenings 

4 HEALTHYEDGE 

Photo credit: www.seedgivethtree.wordpress.com 

steps but not moving past the curb. 

Something told me to look back at 

him. He was still in the same place, 

looking bewildered and upset. 

I returned to ask him if he was all 

right. He said he was afraid of falling 

on the wet pavement, that he lived 

alone and if he got hurt no one would 

look after him. All he needed was a 

little help, and here I thought he was 

an old drunk. I walked him several 

blocks to his door and felt terrible 

that my first thought hadn’t been 

compassion for this man. That experience 

made me realize that compassion 

was something Big Bird should be 

teaching children on Sesame Street, 

and the producers agreed. 

Can you recall any audience feedback 

that reinforced your vision for 

Big Bird 

CS: A mother from Saskatchewan 

wrote that she heard her four-year-old 

whimpering as he watched Sesame 

Street. He told her, ‘Big Bird’s just like 

me—all the kids are off at school; but 

he’s not old enough to go, so he has 

no one to be with.’ I was 43 at the 

time and thought how neat it was 

that a four-year-old in Canada was 

identifying with what my character, 

Big Bird, was going through. 

Letter in hand, 

Big Bird helped to 

educate millions of 

children for four 

decades, providing 

many with their first 

exposure to the 

alphabet and set 

them on the road 

to lifelong reading. 

You recently turned 75. How do you 

manage to stay so in tune with your 

young audience 

CS: I remember my childhood very 

clearly. I actually remember being toilet 

trained, and it wasn’t just last year! 

Remembering my childhood has helped 

me live out Big Bird’s childhood. He’s 

kind of like my child, and I get to play 

my child. That’s one of the great things 

about playing the same character for 

40 years. 

You’ve been in physical danger several 

times while playing Big Bird. Is there 

one instance that still haunts you 

CS: Yes, probably when Big Bird 

landed on top of my wife, Debi. I was 

performing in Maryland on a big 

temporary stage raised about seven 

feet above the floor of an auditorium. 

There were curtains all around it, but 

nothing to stop me from walking off 

the side of the stage. 

As I left after my performance, I 

ended up at the edge of the stage, and 

there was nothing but space ahead of 

me. I suddenly felt myself being pulled 

back. My wife had raced up behind me 

and grabbed me by my belt. I landed 

on her lap. After the show, we looked 

down there: It was a storage area.

I would have landed head first onto 

metal chairs with the legs facing 

straight up. I could have been killed. 

You must need a lot of stamina to do 

this work. How do you stay in shape 

CS: I used to exercise between 

shows, but lately I’ve been lazy and 

haven’t done that very much. I try to 

be quite active at home in the country 

and work on the grounds a bit. But I 

think it might be genetic; I don’t seem 

to be wearing down too badly. My 

father lived to be one month short of 

91! What a gas it would be to do this 

all through my 80’s as long as it was 

still fun. If it ever gets to where it’s not 

fun, then it would be better to leave. 

A lot of your heart and soul has 

gone into Big Bird. Do you ever 

suffer from separation anxiety when 

you leave him behind at the end 

of the day 

CS: An awful thing happened to Big 

Bird in Georgia that let me know how I 

really felt about him and who he was 

to me. We were appearing at 

Georgia Tech and Big Bird was 

the only puppet in the show. 

While we were at lunch, I 

noticed passersby with Big Bird 

feathers in their hats. They were 

ROTC in their final year of college 

who had been hired to make sure 

that nobody bothered our equipment, 

including Big Bird. You’d 

expect better behavior! 

I began seeing more feathers, 

then dozens. So, I rushed down to 

the theatre and saw Big Bird on 

the floor. About 100 feathers had 

been ripped off his chest, and the 

netting underneath was exposed. 

His head was broken and his eye 

was hanging off. 

I burst into tears. It was like 

seeing your child torn, violated and 

thrown on the ground. 

Meanwhile, 6,000 four-year-olds 

were filing in to see the next show, 

and Big Bird was lying there dead on 

the floor. I never knew how I felt 


Caroll Spinney relates his thoughts and 

perspectives on life as a puppeteer in 

his recent autobiography published by 

Villard/Random House, Inc. in 2003. 

IT’S NOT EASY BEING YELLOW 

Master puppeteer Caroll Spinney plays Big Bird from the 

inside out. With his right arm extended above his head, 

Spinney is literally suited up inside Big Bird’s 8-foot-2-inch 

feathered costume, which surprisingly only weighs 4-1/2 

pounds. Spinney’s right arm supports the Bird’s neck, while 

his right hand operates the beak. 

“I run his lower beak with my thumb, and my little finger 

operates his eyelids, which are almost always in motion 

and help create his expressions,” explained Spinney. “I can 

make him smile or look sad by simply changing the angle 

that I hold his head to the camera because his face is like a 

porpoise. He really can’t change his expression.” 

Spinney’s left arm functions as the left wing and, with a 

piece of strategically-placed monofilament, controls the 

right wing as well. 

“The right wing is just a dummy,” clarified Spinney. “If I 

lower my left arm, it pulls the right wing up. So when I’m 

walking, I pump my left arm up and down so Big Bird looks 

like he’s striding with his arms moving as he walks. It gives 

him full motion.” 

Spinney essentially performs “blind” since he can’t see outside 

of the Bird; although he can catch a glimpse of what 

the TV audience sees by watching a tiny TV monitor 

strapped to his chest inside his costume. He cuts and folds 

his script, via “script origami,” and secures it to the monitor. 

“Once in awhile, we’ll take one or two feathers off, which 

are on Velcro, so I can just get the sight of where a doorjamb 

is,” Spinney said. “If I’m doing live shows, Big Bird 

usually wears a tie, so I can see through the tie.” — J.T. 

WINTER 2009 5

SCRAM… 

HERE COMES 

THE GROUCH! 

The green shag bag, Oscar 

the Grouch, may have found his 

Shangri-La in a dented garbage 

can on Sesame Street, but snippets 

of his soul were originally spotted 

in Oscar’s seafood restaurant in 

Manhattan (a grouchy waiter) and 

his voice in the grumbles of a 

crabby New York cabbie. 

Photo by Paul Schneck 

Master Muppeteers Jim Henson 

and Caroll Spinney spun these 

characters together and out came 

Oscar the Grouch. Originally 

orange and scrawny, he eventually 

bulked up and turned green 

permanently…after “a vacation” 

in the swamp! 

In April 2008, Caroll Spinney graciously shared the podium with the irascible Oscar 

the Grouch at the 59th annual Christopher Awards gala. 

“Oscar is a curmudgeon,” said 

Spinney. “I can’t say that I admire 

him very much, but the thrill of 

playing such a strong character is 

a delight.” — J.T. 

An Oscar the Grouch puppet at the 

Smithsonian National Museum of 

American History in Washington, D.C. 

6 HEALTHYEDGE 

Photo credit commons.wikimedia.org 

about Big Bird until I saw this effigy 

all ripped apart. 

You’ve worked with many show business 

icons, world leaders and six First 

Ladies! Is there one encounter with a 

First Lady that stands out 

CS: I learned that you don’t put 

your wing on the First Lady if she’s 

Pat Nixon. After we did the show, she 

was gracious, but very formal. I was 

standing next to her for photos with 

my left arm up on her shoulder. She 

reached up, brought my hand down 

and held on to it, so I couldn’t do 

that again. 

Why choose puppetry over 

traditional acting 

CS: Puppets often have a use in 

education and areas where nothing 

else quite works as well. I started out 

doing puppets when I was a little boy 

and, for years, never thought of myself 

as an actor. Now I realize I am an actor 

because I’m not an eight-foot bird or a 

green, furry grouch, yet I play them 

and try to make them entertaining and 

educational. I love puppetry because 

you can be almost anything. I call it 

‘acting at the end of your arm.’ 

You were two years older than 

Jim Henson, yet you consider him 

your mentor. 

CS: Even though we became 

friends, I never lost my awe of him: He 

was a true genius. He gave me a few 

pointers, but he encouraged us all to 

evolve and innovate as we went along. 

One of the wonderful aspects of Jim’s 

genius was his openness to new ideas 

from the people around him. 

Are you currently mentoring 

any young puppeteers 

CS: I’m mentoring a brilliant young 

man right now. He just turned 12 and 

is totally enamored with Big Bird, so 

I’ve been encouraging him a great deal. 

He has wonderful parents who support 

what he wants to do. I think that’s

Photo credits: The Associated Press 

great. It reminds me of what my mother 

did for me. By the time I was 16, she 

had built me 70 puppets and written 

all their stories. She was fantastic. 

Your three children and four grandchildren 

grew up watching Sesame 

Street. How have they dealt with the 

fact that you play Big Bird and Oscar 

the Grouch 

On the set at Sesame Street, Big Bird gets ready for a videotaping. 

CS: I remember the first time my 

grandson called up and I said, ‘Big Bird 

is visiting, would you like to talk to him 

on the phone’ His little tiny voice said, 

‘Yes!’ So Big Bird ‘talked’ to him. From 

then on, until he was almost 11, he 

would often call up and ask, ‘Hey, 

Granddad, is Big Bird there’ He usually 

was; but once in awhile, I would say, 

‘No, he’s down at Sesame Street,’ so it 

would be a little more realistic. He 

loved talking to Big Bird. 

Sesame Street was originally considered 

to be an ‘experimental’ show. 

After 40 years, it’s still going strong. 

Why has it been so successful 

CS: A study done in the late ’90s 

revealed that children watching the 

show at that point were much younger 

than our audiences in 1969. And 

although the original mission was to 

reach inner city children, the show has 

consistently appealed to kids from all 

walks of life, not just inner city kids. 

Certainly Sesame Street has changed 

education. We try to encourage children 


WINTER 2009 7

“Swami Shreeji” 

Yaswant H. Patel, 

M.D., F.A.C.O.G. 

Practice Limited to 

Obstetrics and Gynecology 

Board Certified 

In Practice Since 1982 

DIPLOMATE, THE AMERICAN 

BOARD OF OBSTETRICS & 

GYNECOLOGY 

Fellow, The American 

College of Obstetricians 

& Gynecologists 

Affiliated with Trinitas 

Regional Medical Center 

CAROLL SPINNEY Continued from page 7 

to develop the attitudes they need to 

live happy, productive lives. And we 

are constantly urging parents to read 

to their children, so they understand 

the magic of words. Part of the genius 

of the show is its appeal to grown-ups. 

If they like it, it’s more likely that they 

will tune in so that their children 

can watch. 

There’s a lot to be said for 

lifelong learning! 

CS: Yes, I think so. Back when 

Norman Rockwell was alive, I was so 

impressed when I read that he was 

72 years old and still taking art 

lessons on Tuesday nights. Art lessons 

In 1906, he did the cover of the 

Saturday Evening Post! 

It’s important to keep learning. It 

makes life a lot more exciting because 

learning is fun. It’s so much fun that 

often, as I’m heading for the studio, 

I’m giggling to myself, not like a 

complete fool, but because I’m looking 

forward to the joy of doing some of 

our wonderful scripts. Even at this 

advanced age, I’m still learning! 

Judith Trojan is an award-winning 

entertainment journalist and the director 

of The Christopher Awards, currently in 

its 60th year of honoring films, TV/cable 

programming and books that “affirm the 

highest values of the human spirit.” 

yashpatelmd.com 

yashpatel.nsedreams.com 

Akshar Women’s Clinic 

822 N. Wood Ave, Ste 201 

Linden, NJ 07036-4038 

908-925-1881 

Office Hours by Appointment 

Multilingual Staff 

Plenty of Free 

Off Street Parking 

Photo credit: www.berlinwallpaper.com 

SESAME STREET 

WELCOMES A NEW AGE 

Be sure to check out Sesame Street’s newly refurbished 

educational play site at www.sesamestreet.org for 

wonderful child- and parent-friendly activities, videos 

and games that extend the shelf-life of the TV show 

by engaging kids interactively. And the best part in 

these financially-strapped times: It’s free! — J.T. 

8 HEALTHYEDGE

Walking Tall Again 

PARTIAL IMPLANT PUTS PATIENTS ON THE GO by Julie Jacobs 

Arthritis of the knees had plagued 

John S. for decades. Despite trying an 

array of medications and enduring 

series after series of cartilage-restoring 

injections, John could not find relief. In 

fact, his condition worsened and was 

especially painful and disruptive to his 

life during the past 15 years. He grew 

progressively bowlegged, which greatly 

impacted his job as an electrical engineer. 

“I was working out in the field, 

where I had to be on my feet for hours 

at a time,” the Kinnelon resident says. 

“Because of my knees, I’d have to sit 

down much too often.” 

In search of a permanent solution, 

John visited three surgeons, all of 

whom recommended a full-knee 

replacement. Then someone suggested 

he see Gregory Charko, MD, attending 

orthopedic surgeon at Trinitas Regional 

Medical Center. After taking and 

reviewing x-rays, Dr. Charko felt that 

John was a good candidate for a 

partial-knee replacement, utilizing the 

Oxford ® Partial Knee Implant. The day 

after surgery on his left knee this past 

October, John was out of the hospital 

using only a cane for support. Four 

days after the procedure, he was walking 

totally unassisted. And just a week 

afterward, he was back at work. 

“I have improved mobility and flexibility, 

and the discomfort is so minimal, 

nowhere near to that which I experienced 

24/7 for so long,” says John, 

who plans to have his right knee done 

this spring, and who remains eternally 

grateful to both Dr. Charko and the 

Oxford ® Partial Knee Implant. 

Construction Makes 

Implant Unique 

Developed in Oxford, England, and 

employed in Europe for two decades 

now, the Oxford ® Partial Knee Implant 

was approved by the Food and Drug 

Administration for use in the United 

States in 2004. It is manufactured by 

Biomet, a worldwide leader in the 

design and manufacture of products 

for the orthopedic, sports medicine, 

biologic, craniomaxillofacial and dental 

markets since 1977, and is unlike any 

other partial-knee implant. 

The Oxford ® is a three-part system: 

a partial metal cap that attaches to the 

femur (thigh) bone, a metal tray that 

attaches to the tibia (shin) bone, and a 

plastic bearing that sits in the middle 

of the two. The artificial bearing acts as 

a meniscus, which in a healthy knee 

absorbs the shock between the femur 

and tibia when bending the leg. 

“With older implants, the plastic is 

fixed to the tibia and, as a result, tends 

to wear more quickly over time,” notes 

Dr. Charko, who has been performing 

partial knee implant surgery for 17 

years. “”With the Oxford ® , when the 

knee bends, the femur rolls back on 

the tibia. There’s a gliding, as opposed 

to the pieces rubbing against one 

another.” 

During an 

evaluation 

of a potential 

knee problem, 

a physical therapist 

observes a 

patient as he or 

she walks. Such 

evaluations, 

part of the services 

offered at 

the Trinitas Regional Medical Center 

Health and Rehabilitation Center, are 

conducted based on a doctor’s referral. 

Physical 

Therapist 

Valerie Epps 

measures the 

extension of the 

knee of patient 

Maribel Guerra 

of Elizabeth 

who scheduled 

an evaluation 

at the Health 

and Rehabilitation Center because of 

knee pain she was experiencing. 

By explaining 

the position 

and movements 

of knee ligaments, 

Valerie 

Epps informed 

Maribel Guerra 

that knee pain 

can result 

simply from a 

sitting position 

that may put unnecessary stress on the 

knee. In such cases, several weeks of 

physical therapy and adjusting sitting 

positions normally help to eliminate the 

pain that may be experienced. 

If you need an evaluation or physical therapy, contact Health and 

Rehabilitation Center at (908) 994-5650 for further information. 

10 HEALTHYEDGE

Treatment for Long-Term 

Stability and Mobility of 

the Knee 

Arthritis of the knee typically occurs 

on the medial, or inside, part of the 

joint. For patients with arthritis limited 

to the medial area (as well as a stable 

anterior cruciate ligament), a partial 

replacement is the optimal course 

of surgical treatment. The procedure 

requires a smaller incision and preserves 

more of the normal structure of the 

knee, which includes bone, cartilage 

and ligaments. Patients experience less 

pain and greater range of motion than 

with a total knee replacement. They 

also recover more rapidly and are 

back to their usual routine within six 

to eight weeks, versus three to four 

months following a full replacement. 

Physical therapy, likewise, is shorter, 

taking one month to six weeks instead 

of two to three months. 

The Oxford ® system removes 75% 

less bone and cartilage. Due to the 

free-floating nature of its construction, 

it provides for a more natural feeling 

knee and more closely replicates normal 

movement. And while the life span 

of any implant depends on a variety of 

factors—weight, age and activity level 

among them—the Oxford ® offers 

unprecedented durability and longevity 

for partial-knee replacements. Not all 

patients are candidates for partial knee 

replacement. Only your orthopedic surgeon 

can tell you if you're a candidate 

for joint replacement surgery, and if so, 

which implant is right for your specific 

needs. You should discuss your condition 

and treatment options with your 

surgeon. The Oxford ® Meniscal Partial 

Knee is intended for use in individuals 

with osteoarthritis or avascular necrosis 

limited to the medial compartment 

of the knee and is intended to be 

implanted with bone cement. Potential 

The Oxford ® Meniscal Partial Knee 

implant. 

risks include, but are not limited to, 

loosening, dislocation, fracture, wear, 

and infection, any of which can require 

additional surgery. For additional information 

on the Oxford ® knee, including 

risks and warnings, talk to your surgeon 

or visit Biomet.com. 


If you are 50 or older 

Are you aware 

COLON CANCER… 

• Is the second leading cause of cancer related deaths 

for both males and females after age 50. 

• Is “PREVENTABLE” with early detection through 

a COLONOSCOPY screening. 

• Is “CURABLE” with early detection through a 

COLONOSCOPY. 

…ARE YOU AT RISK 

More information call 1-877-Colon50 (265 6650) 

COLONOSCOPY CAN SAVE YOUR LIFE 

Colon Cancer – an “Equal Opportunity” disease. 

According to the American Cancer Society, 

150,000 Americans will be diagnosed with 

colorectal cancer each year and over one-third 

of them will die from it. Colon cancer is the 

second leading cause of cancer death in both 

men and women, killing more people than 

breast and prostate cancer combined. The good 

news is that colon cancer is 95% curable when it 

is detected and treated at its early stages, before 

and physical symptoms develop. 

Samiappan Muthusamy, MD, FACG 

Clinical Assistant Professor, Seton Hall University 

Dhanasekaran Ramasamy, MD 

695 Chestnut Street • Union, NJ 07083 

(908) 688-6565 • www.cddnj.com 

Aaron Javier, PA-C 

WINTER 2009 11

Knee Surgery with 

Remarkable Results 

Advanced Urology 

Alan P. Krieger, MD 

Franklin A. Morrow, MD 

M. Brett Opell, MD 

Diplomates, American Board of Urology 

Since becoming Oxford ® certified in 

January 2008, Dr. Charko has used the 

partial-knee implant on a half dozen 

patients to date, with exceptional 

outcomes in each case. One of his 

patients, Linden resident Barbara 

Bobenchik, recovered so well that she 

was able to dispense completely with 

physical therapy and was up and 

about right away. 

Barbara, who underwent a full 

replacement on her right knee in 2005, 

also performed by Dr. Charko, had 

suffered with knee pain for as far back 

as she can remember. “I always had a 

problem walking. It was terrible and 

very debilitating. I couldn’t even take 

small steps, and I lived on anti-inflammatory 

medications,” she recalls. “At 

the time I had the full knee replacement, 

I was working—I’m now 

retired—and if I sat too long, it would 

hurt me. So I was up and down a lot.” 

When the pain in her left knee grew 

Associates PA 

Diseases of Prostate and Kidney • Kidney Stones 

Urinary Incontinence • Impotence 

700 North Broad Street 

Elizabeth 

908 289-3666 

1600 St. Georges Avenue 

Rahway 

732 499-0111 

unbearable and she felt it was time for 

surgery, she first turned to the Internet 

where, coincidentally on her own, she 

found and researched the Oxford ® . 

She then met with Dr. Charko and 

asked if she was a candidate for a 

partial replacement with the device. 

Following her procedure in May 2008, 

Barbara began a newly mobile life. 

“My recovery was excellent, truly 

miraculous. I got out of bed the very 

next day and had no problems. I didn’t 

have to use a cane or have physical 

therapy. I could feel that I was doing 

great,” she says. “Six months later, I’m 

still feeling wonderful and I’m walking 

every day. It’s unbelievable. Dr. Charko 

did a marvelous job.” 

For his part, Dr. Charko looks 

forward to scheduling partial-knee 

replacements on an outpatient basis, 

doing the surgery first thing in the 

morning and releasing patients by 

nighttime, provided they are not in any 

pain. What will stay the same is his 

implant of choice. “There’s no going 

back,” he declares. “When I have to do 

a partial-knee replacement, it’s going 

to be with the Oxford ® system.” 

Julie Jacobs is a New Jersey-based 

freelance writer/editor. She owns Wynne 

Communications, an editorial consulting firm. 

While the patient in this story is a true recipient of 

the Oxford knee, his/her results are not necessarily 

typical, indicative, or representative of all partial knee 

patients. The Oxford knee has been used successfully in 

achieving restored mobility to many patients. However, 

as with any implanted device, there are factors affecting 

performance which ultimately result in variable outcomes, 

including levels of mobility and pain. These factors 

include, but are not limited to, the patient’s pre and 

post-operative health conditions, weight, activity level, 

and adherence to instructions regarding the use of the 

knee. Due to these variables, it is not possible to predict 

specific results or patient satisfaction. 

The Oxford Partial Knee is intended for use in individuals 

with osteoarthritis or avascular necrosis limited to 

the medial compartment of the knee and is intended to 

be implanted with bone cement. Potential risks include, 

but are not limited to, loosening, dislocation, fracture, 

wear, and infection, any of which can require additional 

surgery. For additional information on the Oxford knee, 

including risks and warnings, talk to your surgeon and 

see the full patient risk information on biomet.com. 

12 HEALTHYEDGE

HealthWise 

NEWS YOU CAN USE FOR YOUR GOOD HEALTH 

by Rena Sandberg and Kathryn Salamone 

EATING WELL ON A BUDGET 

With rising food prices, you might 

be wondering how you can eat healthfully 

without wiping out your wallet. 

Here are some dietary suggestions to 

help you stick to a healthy diet and a 

money-saving plan: 

Avoid Fast Food 

You’re thinking, “But fast food is 

cheap!” Hold your hamburger – it’s 

very possible that you are spending 

over $1,000 a year at the drivethrough! 

Think about it: Most people 

grab a meal out of their homes three 

times per week. Let’s say you spend 

$6.50 per fast-food meal. If you dish 

out $6.50 three times that week, you 

will have spent $19.50. Doesn’t seem 

so bad until you multiply that by 52 

weeks and realize that you spent 

$1,014! Save that cash and go on a 

road trip or buy your wife those earrings 

she has been asking for. 

Savor Seasonal Food 

Buying food in season will not only 

save you a buck, it offers fresh produce 

with the most flavor and nutritional 

value. In winter, choose foods such as 

carrots, potatoes, eggs, fish and nuts. 

During the summer months, opt for 

seasonal foods like strawberries, apples, 

plums, summer squash and corn. 

Don’t Food Shop on 

an Empty Stomach 

Your eyes tend to be 

bigger than your stomach 

when you’re hungry, so hit 

the grocery store after a meal to 

help you resist the many 

unhealthy, expensive 

temptations that lurk 

in supermarkets. 

Healthy Foods Under $1 

That’s right! Look for these items 

on your next supermarket trip; they all 

offer many health benefits, and best of 

all – they cost less than $1! 

• Oats 

• Potatoes 

• Apples 

• Nuts 

• Wild Rice 

• Butternut Squash 

• Spinach 

• Beets 

LOW FAT FOODS THAT CAN REDUCE HEART DISEASE 

First, the bad news: almost 1 million Americans die of 

cardiovascular disease each year. Now the good news: it 

is completely preventable. The American Heart Association 

suggests choosing nutrient-dense foods such as vegetables, 

fruits, whole grains and lean protein to help in your personal 

battle against the disease. Not smoking, participating 

in regular physical activities, and following the dietary 

guidelines below will put you one step ahead toward 

maintaining a healthy heart. 

Eat fish: Sardines, mackerel and salmon are three types of 

fish that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids – a substance that 

has the power to reduce triglyceride levels and reduce the 

risk of heart disease and stroke. 

Fill up on fiber: Fiber-rich fruits, vegetables, whole grains 

and legumes are all thought to block the absorption of 

cholesterol in the intestinal tract, thus decreasing your 

chances of getting heart disease. Soluble fiber has the best 

reputation of lowering blood cholesterol levels, so fill up 

on oat bran, barley, peas, oranges, apples and carrots. 

Decrease sodium intake: Put down your salt shaker! 

Using less salt can help lower blood pressure which, in 


WINTER 2009 13

FOODS THAT 

CAN REDUCE 

HEART DISEASE 

Continued from page 13 

HEALTHWISE 

turn, reduces your risk of falling 

victim to heart disease. 

Eat the right fats: Not all fats 

are created equal. Saturated fats 

found in meat, milk and oils like 

coconut or palm oil are correlated 

with occurrences of coronary 

heart disease. Trans fats – found 

in margarine, fried foods and 

baked goods – raise LDL (“bad”) 

cholesterol which puts the body at 

increased risk for heart disease. 

Two types of fat – monounsaturated 

and polyunsaturated – are the 

ones to look for on the supermarket 

shelf. Consumed in 

moderation, these fats are touted 

to reduce heart disease risk. You 

can find these beneficial fats in 

avocados, nuts, olive and canola 

oil, and seafood. 

14 HEALTHYEDGE 

COMFORT FOODS 

WITH YOUR WAIST IN MIND 

Comfort foods are often looked to 

for nurture and satisfaction. However, 

the calorie-laden price tag is often 

what we have to pay when we consume 

these foods. Fortunately, there 

are ways to enjoy these soothing meals 

simply by altering a few ingredients. 

First, to cut fat, opt for light versions 

of components such as low-fat 

cheese, light mayonnaise or reducedfat 

cream. 

Secondly, to add sweetness without 

adding spoonfuls of sugar, toss in 

chopped or grated fruit. Not only will 

it add sweetness, but you’ll benefit 

from the vitamins as well. 

Third, to increase the nutritional 

value of the meal, add vegetables or 

legumes whenever possible. 

So, instead of throwing in the towel 

on your favorite comfort foods, lighten 

up! Here are some ways to give your 

favorite comfort foods a healthy kick: 

Meatloaf 

Add salsa in place of ketchup, 

replace the ground beef with ground 

turkey, and add a variety of vegetables 

for added fiber, vitamins and minerals. 

Mac and Cheese 

For a belt-slimming version of the 

all-time favorite recipe, swap whole 

milk for 1% or skim milk to cut fat and 

calories and use whole-wheat pasta 

when possible. 

Soup 

If you love to warm up with a brothbased 

soup, you’re in luck. Broth-based 

soups are generally less in calories and 

fat than cream-based soups. For those 

creamy soup lovers, simply swap heavy 

cream for light cream and your waistline 

will thank you. 

Ice Cream 

The next time you’re screaming for 

ice cream, choose a light version of 

your favorite brand. If Ben and Jerry’s is 

what you crave, look for light options 

like Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough and 

Chocolate Chip Mint & Cookies which 

contain 50 percent less fat and 25 percent 

fewer calories. Even Haggen-Dazs 

offers mouth-watering light flavors like 

Caramel Cone and Coffee. Not willing 

to compromise in the ice cream 

department Choose a sherbet in 

strawberry, lemon or orange; not only 

do they contain less calories, they generally 

contain minimal

BROWN BAG YOUR WAY TO HEALTHY EATING 

Brown-bagging your lunch is one of 

the simplest ways to trim both your 

budget and your waistline. Saving even 

$5 a day, just by bringing your lunch 

to work, can give you a monthly cost 

savings of at least $100. At their nutritional 

best, meals packed at home — 

which should incorporate carbohydrates, 

protein and fat — are also generally 

less in calories and fat than 

restaurant or fast-food eats. 

We’ve got all the lunch personalities 

covered. Look below and match the 

meal to your lunch personality for a 

week’s – or even month’s – healthy start: 

Sandwich Aficionado 

Choose among a variety of wholegrain 

breads and add hard-boiled eggs, 

lean meats, tuna fish or nut butters 

such as peanut, almond or cashew. 

Top off your sandwich with a variety of 

sliced vegetables, basil or light cheese. 

To mix things up, swap the bread for 

a veggie or whole-wheat wrap. 

Salad Fanatic 

Your options are endless when creating 

your own salad. Start with a base 

of lettuce, spinach or mixed greens 

and then let your imagination run wild! 

Top with several or all of the following: 

• Chicken 

• Eggs 

• Pears 

• Raisins 

• Cranberries 

• Celery 

• Carrots 

• Red and green peppers 

Drizzle a low-calorie dressing like 

Light Ranch or Light Vinaigrette over 

your creation. (To avoid sogginess, 

keep the dressing in a separate container 

until it’s time to chow down.) 

Soup Fancier 

For those who have access to a 

microwave at work, bringing in soup 

for lunch is a no-brainer. Not only are 

there countless flavors and brands of 

soup, but this meal fills the stomach 

quickly and therefore helps overeating. 

Although this is a quick and simple 

option, it is important to read the label 

before you head to the supermarket 

check-out. Many soups are loaded with 

sodium and calories, so pay close 

attention to these ingredients. Sodium 

should typically be less than 600 mg 

per cup and look for calorie content in 

the 150-200 calorie range. Lastly, if you 

spot MSG, it’s a red light to put it back 

on the shelf and keep looking for a 

more nutritious soup. 

Leftover Lover 

Cooking a nutritious meal and 

packing it in a zip-loc container takes 

little effort and ensures that you get a 

healthy, hearty fare the next day. Here 

are some nutritious, lip-smacking eats: 

• Spaghetti-turkey casserole with 

vegetables 

• Black beans with brown rice 

• Pizza topped with light shredded 

cheese and a variety of vegetables 

• Pasta salad made with cubed 

turkey, cheese, onions and 

vegetables 

WINTER 2009 15

HEALTHWISE 

DON’T LET MONEY WORRIES RUIN YOUR HEALTH 

2008 was an unsettling year for 

many Americans. From the housing 

market crisis to the collapse of Lehman 

Brothers, AIG and other financial institutions, 

it’s no wonder that 80 percent of 

Americans claim that the economy is 

their leading cause of stress. Although 

we are limited to what we can do about 

the Wall Street crisis, we can choose our 

path to stress-free, mental freedom. 

“Each day is a new opportunity 

to begin a healthy lifestyle,” notes 

Trinitas RMC Advanced Practice Nurse 

Susan E. Jackson. “In times of stress 

and financial crisis, this goal might 

take a backseat. However, without a 

healthy lifestyle you cannot go forward. 

Trinitas provides an avenue to well 

being with the variety of outreach 

services such as health screenings to 

the community. The diet we choose, 

the medications, the exercise routines 

we have, and the lifestyle habits that 

we already have can be reinforced with 

visits to your physician or clinic.” 

First, it is important to understand 

that stress can sometimes be useful. 

For example, it can help you win a 

50-meter dash or get you to work on 

time. Elevated stress levels make the 

body respond in a reaction called the 

“fight or flight stress response.” This 

causes a rise in breathing and heart 

rate and can also cause bursts of 

energy. However, stress can be the 

root of all evils when it occurs 

often and lasts indefinitely. It can be 

blamed for frequent headaches, 

insomnia, back aches and stomach 

complications. The good news is 

that there are steps you can take 

to ease your anxiety – whether you 

are distressed about the economy 

or other personal matters. 

Get Brainy 

If you are in the dark about managing 

your finances, educating yourself 

might help ease your stress. Consult 

with experts such as a financial advisor 

to help get your money on track. 

Ditch your Debt 

Slash your debt and contact a consumer 

credit counseling service. They 

can provide you with comprehensive 

counseling and help you rehabilitate 

your finances. 

Sell That House! 

Has your house been on the market 

for what seems like forever Contact a 

professional house stager – with a few 

rearrangements and some TLC, an 

expert can help you get the biggest 

bang for your buck in a tough market. 

CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASES 

240 Williamson Street • Elizabeth, NJ 07207 

908-994-5300 • Fax 908-994-5308 

ARTHUR E. MILLMAN, MD FACC/FSCAI 

ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR OF MEDICINE 

SETON HALL UNIVERSITY 

GRADUATE SCHOOL OF MEDICAL EDUCATION 

Get Better Zzzz’s 

To avoid another sleepless night, 

steer clear of caffeinated beverages 

after lunch, refrain from stressful 

activities such as paying bills before 

bed, and exercise at least four hours 

before settling in for the night. 

Avoid the Bottle 

to Be a Winner! 

Drinking alcohol can negatively 

effect total sleep time, so limit the 

amount – and how often – you 

choose to drink. In addition, using 

alcohol habitually has been shown to 

actually induce the stress response by 

stimulating certain hormones. Lastly, 

chronic alcohol consumption can 

negatively affect close friends and 

family which, in turn, can come right 

back and cause you added stress. 

If you are facing 

hard times because of 

the economy, see page 41 

for information about Economic 

Support Groups at TRMC. 

16 HEALTHYEDGE

ABC’S OF MITRAL VALVE PROLAPSE 

What is the mitral valve and 

where is it located 

Located between the left atrium 

and the left ventricle, the mitral valve 

in the heart contains two flaps/leaflets 

which protect the opening. 

What is the purpose of the 

mitral valve 

The American Heart Association 

explains that the job of the mitral valve 

is to prevent blood from flowing backwards. 

It does this by closing tightly 

when the left ventricle contracts. 

What is mitral valve prolapse 

Generally a benign condition, the 

American Heart Association points out 

that mitral valve prolapse involves one 

or both valve flaps becoming enlarged. 

These flaps fail to close evenly when 

the heart contracts, leaving one or 

both flaps to drop back into the left 

atrium. This sometimes causes blood to 

leak backward through the valve, causing 

a heart murmur. 

What causes mitral valve 

prolapse and what are its 

symptoms 

Although researchers are still unsure 

of the exact cause of this syndrome, 

mitral valve prolapse has been shown 

to have a strong hereditary connection. 

Although common symptoms include 

fatigue, palpitations and headaches, 

the majority of patients do not experience 

any symptoms. 

Are there complications associated 

with mitral valve prolapse 

Mitral valve prolapse patients generally 

experience mild complications 

and can be rest assured that the condition 

is rarely dangerous. However, in 

severe and very rare circumstances, 

complications can include cardiac 

arrest or stroke. 

“For those who are diagnosed 

with Mitral Valve 

Prolapse, it is wise to consult 

with a physician to determine if 

it is necessary to be prescribed 

antibiotics to prevent infection 

prior to undergoing particular 

medical procedures,” explains 

Susan Jackson, Advanced Practice 

Nurse at Trinitas. 

Are their treatment options for 

this condition 

The prognosis for most patients is 

positive and therefore they do not need 

treatment. Patients with a severe condition 

might require beta-blockers to 

lower their heart rate and blood pressure 

as well as relieve some symptoms. 

How is mitral valve prolapse 

diagnosed 

For an accurate diagnosis, an 

echocardiography is needed. 

WINTER 2009 17

HEALTHWISE 

AS LIGHT SLIPS AWAY, 

DON’T GET SAD 

As the temperature drops and darkness 

falls earlier during the winter 

months, many people begin to experience 

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). 

This cyclic mood disorder is a type of 

depression that causes people to experience 

a healthy state of mind in the 

spring and summer months and then 

begin to feel depressed at the onset of 

late autumn. This disorder, which 

affects millions of Americans (more 

commonly touching women than 

men), is theorized to have one or several 

causes. 

Melatonin, a sleep-related hormone, 

is thought to increase naturally 

in the body during the extended nights 

of winter, leading to depression. 

Some researchers believe that lack 

of sunlight during the winter months 

can cause the levels of serotonin, a 

chemical in the brain that affects 

mood, to drop substantially. 

The Circadian Rhythm in the body 

which sends messages to the brain 

when it should be going to sleep and 

when it should wake is thought to 

HHCH HEALTH CARE, INC. 

221 WEST ST. GEORGES AVE, LINDEN, NJ 07036 

become unbalanced in the winter due 

to less hours of sunlight. This unbalance 

is said to cause somber mood. 

But, before you feel even more 

down in the dumps, remember that 

there are treatment options. Light therapy, 

which resembles outdoor light, 

alleviates symptoms of the disorder. 

Sitting several feet away from a light 

box anywhere between 15 minutes to 

two hours (or the length of time a 

health professional advises) is said to 

offer many benefits with few side 

effects. Bear in mind, however, that 

because of insubstantial proof about its 

efficacy at the moment, the Food and 

Drug Administration has not yet 

approved this treatment. 

24-HOUR LIVE-IN COMPANION CARE 

AT REASONABLE RATES 

HOURLY CERTIFIED HOME HEALTH AIDES 

(CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECKS) 

PRIVATE DUTY NURSING 

FULLY ACCREDITED, BONDED AND 

INSURED AGENCY 

MEDICAL SOCIAL WORKER 

KNOWLEDGEABLE, EXPERIENCED, 

WELL-TRAINED & CARING PERSONNEL 

SUPERVISED BY REGISTERED NURSES 

AT NO EXTRA CHARGE TO PATIENT 

WE SPEAK VARIOUS EUROPEAN LANGUAGES 

INCLUDING RUSSIAN, POLISH, UKRAINIAN, 

SPANISH AND PORTUGUESE AS WELL AS ENGLISH 

CALL TODAY (908) 587-1172 

For information or a 

referral to a qualified clinician, 

call (908) 994-7556. 

18 HEALTHYEDGE

ARE INEXPENSIVE READING GLASSES 

STEALING YOUR VISION 

As we age, our ability to see close 

items diminishes. Even people born 

with perfect vision will require eyeglasses 

once they reach 40 years of 

age. Presbyopia, a universal condition 

that occurs when the ciliary muscles 

have weakened and the ability to focus 

on nearby objects has become somewhat 

difficult, can be easily corrected 

with prescription eyeglasses. 

Because reading glasses can sometimes 

come with a hefty price tag, 

many people ask the following question: 

Can I Purchase Inexpensive 

Reading Glasses From the Drugstore 

You should not take a “one-size-fits-all” 

approach to eyewear. Here’s why: 

Most people require a different prescription 

in each eye, and “drugstore” 

reading glasses incorporate the same 

prescription in both lenses. 

Many individuals have astigmatism, 

a mild imperfection in the curvature of 

the eye which causes blurred vision, 

which over-the-counter eyeglasses do 

not address. 

Every person requires an individual 

prescription suitable to their specific 

needs. Wearing reading glasses that 

were not made specifically with your 

prescription in mind can cause 

headaches and eyestrain. 

Because over-the-counter reading 

glasses have not been customized to 

the individual’s needs, it is possible 

that the optical centers will not be 

close enough to the middle of the 

customer’s pupils. 

Professional, quality frames tend 

to hold their shape better than “drugstore” 

eyewear which means less need 

for adjustment. 

So head to an experienced optician 

who can help you choose a set of 

frames that will fit your vision needs 

and your budget. 

EMERGENCY 1 HOUR SERVICE AVAILABLE 

Plumbing • Heating • Cooling 

Low Rates & Quality Service 

Residential • Commercial • Industrial 

Fully Insured • Bonded • LIC #11217 

A Absolute 

1 800 435-6249 

• Basements 

Pumped 

• Drains 

• Sinks 

• Sewers 

• Showers 

• Tubs 

• Main Lines 

FREE ESTIMATES 

7 Days A Week 

No Extra Charge 

Night - Weekends 

732-572-2157 908-688-1430 www.aabsoluteplumbing.com 

Middlesex Co. 

Union Co. 

WINTER 2009 19

HEALTHWISE 

UPDATE ON GARDASIL ® 

FOR CERVICAL CANCER 

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a viral 

infection that is transmitted by having 

sexual relations with a partner who carries 

the virus. There are over 100 different 

strains of HPV, 30 of them which 

can be transmitted through sexual contact. 

Certain types of HPV can cause 

genital warts, precancerous lesions on 

the cervix, or cervical cancer. 

Gardasil to the Rescue 

Fortunately, in 2006, a revolutionary 

vaccine called Gardasil won approval 

from the Food and Drug Administration 

which prevents infections of HPV 

strains 16, 18, 6 and 11. HPV 16 and 

18 cause 70% of cervical cancer 

cases and types 6 and 11 cause 

approximately 90% of genital warts 

incidences. Because there are so 

many forms of the virus, vaccination 

does not keep women safe from all 

cancer-producing types of HPV. 

Therefore, annual Pap smears are 

still highly recommended. 

Who is Eligible for Vaccination 

Because Gardasil takes effect before 

contact is made with HPV types 6, 11, 

16, and 18, girls as young as nine 

are eligible for the vaccine. Young 

women up to the age of 26 – preferably 

those who have not yet been 

exposed to sexual activity – are 

advised to be vaccinated. Even those 

who have been sexually active for a 

number of years can still benefit from 

Gardasil because the probability that 

they have been exposed to all 100 

strains of HPV is incredibly low. 

However, Gardasil only prevents 

infections from HPV; it does not treat 

those already infected. 

Is Gardasil Safe 

Given in three doses over a six-month 

period, there have been no reported 

serious side effects to date. Not only 

has Gardasil been licensed by the 

FDA and approved by the CDC 

(Centers for Disease Control and 

Prevention), its safety is continuously 

being strictly monitored. 

#1 in performing 

anti-incontinence and prolapse surgery 

Enjoy life with no embarrassment, 

and social unease. 

www. RiachiSurgery.com 

20 HEALTHYEDGE

THE STATUS ON STATINS FOR CARDIO HEALTH 

Statins, one of the world’s top-selling drugs, are prescribed to patients 

to lower their low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels. These 

drugs decrease cholesterol by moderating cholesterol production and 

helping the liver eliminate LDL (“bad”) cholesterol in the blood. 

Aside from slashing heart attack and stroke risk, statins now show that 

they have the ability to reduce heightened triglyceride levels, lower 

death-related pneumonia, and diminish the potential of blood 

clotting in the legs. 

Before you run to the phone to make an appointment with 

your doctor, consider whether or not you need to be on a statin. 

Besides living with high cholesterol (total cholesterol over 240 mg/dL), 

your other risk factors would include: 

• Diabetes 

• Being overweight 

• Smoking 

• Blood Pressure 

• Age 

• Lifestyle 

If you are unsure of whether or not you qualify to 

be the user of a statin, consult with your doctor. 

Lifestyle Changes 

Don’t underestimate the power of positive lifestyle changes. Certain 

improvements like eating healthfully, quitting smoking and exercising 

regularly might have a substantial effect on your heart disease and 

stroke risk. Talk to your doctor or healthcare provider first before 

making any changes. 

Side Effects and Risks 

There are, of course, side effects that are possible as with 

any medication, so consulting with your doctor and reviewing 

your medical history will help you decide if statins are right for 

you and your condition. In addition, the American Heart 

Association recommends that the patient should be aware of 

potential risks that can occur with the use of statins, so discussing 

them with a physician is essential before starting or stopping the 

use of this drug. 

WINTER 2009 21

HEALTHWISE 

DON’T LET YOUR KIDS BRUSH YOU OFF: 

TEACH THEM GOOD DENTAL HYGIENE 

Teaching your children 

good hygiene at an early age 

will keep their teeth and gums 

healthy and spare them from 

cavities, tooth decay and even 

periodontal disease. With just a 

little bit of education, you and 

your child can be spared from 

dentist melodrama! 

Model Behavior 

Because children tend to imitate 

their guardians, it is vital that you set a 

good example. Routinely brush your 

teeth in front of your children when rising, 

after meals and before bedtime. 

Remember to Repeat 

Children appreciate routines and 

respond well to them. Every morning 

and evening, supervise your tiny tot 

when she practices brushing and flossing 

her pearly whites. 

Fun is the Name 

of the Game! 

Instead of making dental hygiene 

seem like a chore, make it an activity 

that your child looks forward to. 

Purchase fun flavored toothpaste in 

banana or grape, offer toothbrushes 

decorated with their favorite movie 

character, or invest in puzzles, games 

and coloring books that educate them 

about good dental health. 

Watch the Clock 

Very often, children sweep their 

toothbrush in and out of their mouth, 

considering their job done. Play a 

familiar song that lasts at least two 

minutes while your tyke brushes his 

teeth to give him a better idea of how 

long the brush should be swiveling 

around his mouth. 

Friendly Foods 

Let’s not forget that what we eat 

and drink has a lot to do with our 

dental health. Serving soft drinks and 

candy promotes dental caries and 

decay. Opt for fluoridated water and 

serve natural teeth-cleaning foods like 

apples and carrots. 

Choosing a Paste 

When purchasing toothpaste for 

your child, look for one that is accredited 

by the American Dental Association. 

Also, look for a brand that contains 

fluoride to help combat tooth decay. 

22 HEALTHYEDGE

WHEN SNOW FALLS, SHOVEL WITH CARE 

Ahh, the joys of winter - below 

freezing temperatures, hazardous road 

conditions and best of all: a driveway 

and walkway to shovel. Well, look on 

the bright side – shoveling can be great 

exercise for those who are in good 

physical shape. 200 or more calories 

can be burned in just 30 minutes! 

Jim Dunleavy, Administrative 

Director of Rehabilitative Services at 

Trinitas Regional Medical Center, shares 

precautions to make your shoveling 

duty safe this winter. 

DO’s: 

• Consider whether or not you are in 

good physical health. People who 

have previously had a heart attack 

or other cardiovascular disease, 

those with a history of chest pain or 

angina, those with high blood pressure, 

diabetes or high cholesterol 

levels, smokers or those with other 

cardiovascular risk factors and those 

who do not exercise regularly are 

considered at risk. 

• Stretch before you begin to shovel. 

Also warm up your cardiovascular 

system with a light activity such as 

marching in place or walking before 

shoveling. Warming up is an important 

means of modifying cardiovascular 

strain. 

• Watch what you eat or drink. Eat 

normally and take your routine 

medications. 

• Stay hydrated. Keep hands and 

feet warm at all times. 

• Pace yourself. Start out shoveling 

slowly, and don’t try to clear the 

entire area at once. Take frequent 

breaks to give your heart a rest. Use 

the time off to drink plenty of water 

and stay hydrated. 

• Push the snow rather than lifting 

and throwing it. Lift the shovel 

properly. Spread your hands along 

the handle for more leverage, stand 

with your feet hip-width apart, and 

bend at the knees. 

• Scoop in a forward motion and 

step in the direction you throw the 

snow to avoid lower back pain the 

day after shoveling. 

DON’T’s: 

• Don’t eat a heavy meal or drink 

alcohol prior to shoveling. This is 

not a good way to work off a big 

meal! Avoid stimulants such as caffeine 

or nicotine, which increase 

heart rate and cause blood vessels 

to constrict. 

• Don’t smoke while shoveling. Blood 

vessels become constricted when 

exposed to cigarette smoke, adding 

to the constriction caused by the 

cold air. This combination can be 

lethal. As a matter of fact, if you 

smoke at all, reconsider whether or 

not shoveling is safe enough for 

you; snow blowing might be a better 

option. 

• Don’t twist your back when throwing 

snow; you may cause unnecessary 

strain. 

Precautions for the elderly 

Shoveling snow can be risky for 

senior citizens due to the added strain 

on the body from low temperatures as 

well as slippery conditions that heighten 

the risk of falling. If there is a history 

of heart trouble, smoking or sedentary 

lifestyle is present, it might be a good 

idea to ask for assistance. If you do 

decide to brave the cold and shovel 

anyway, be sure to rest every few minutes 

to avoid overexertion. Lastly, try 

this trick to lighten your load: apply a 

small amount of liquid floor wax to the 

shovel to help move the snow off the 

shovel with greater ease. 

“Above all, know the warning signs 

of a heart attack. Stop immediately and 

seek emergency medical help if you 

experience heart attack symptoms such 

as chest pain, shoulder, neck or arm 

pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, 

fainting, sweating or nausea. If you 

have any type of heart or back problem, 

step away from the snow shovel! 

Ask a neighbor or family member for 

help,” stresses Jim Dunleavy. 

Get fit this winter! 

Call (908) 994-5650 for information about TRMC’s Fitness Center. 

WINTER 2009 23

Community Calendar 

Seminars (Offered Free to Our Community) 

Check out 

www.TrinitasRMC.org 

for more information 

about our free 

Health Seminars. 

Professional Training Opportunities 

Programs for healthcare providers and first responders. 

CPR; ACLS & PALS (Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support) & (Pediatric Advanced 

Life Support); Defibrillator Training; EMT Basic Training and Renewals; PHTLS; 

Incident Command System; Advanced Medical Life Support 

Trinitas Hospital Institute of Healthcare & Community Education 

425 Morris Avenue, Elizabeth, NJ 

For further information, call (908) 527-5222, ext. 12 

elmora 

HEALTH CARE 

Family owned for three generations 

Prescriptions • Compounds • Medical Supplies 

Hospital Beds • Wheelchairs • Nebulizers 

Diabetic Supplies • Support Stockings 

Most insurances accepted 

Automated Refill System • Free Delivery 6 days 

162 Elmora Ave, Elizabeth, 07202 

TOLL FREE 1-800-873-9342 or 908-352-8808 

www.elmorahealthcare.com 

Special Events 

May 7, 2009 

Trinitas Health Foundation 

Gala Dinner Dance 

The Birchwood Manor 

111 North Jefferson Road 

Whippany, NJ 07981 

6:00pm Cocktails 

7:30pm Dinner & Awards 

Proceeds benefit the patients 

of Trinitas Regional Medical Center. 

For reservations for this event, call 

Laura Ciraco, (908) 994-8249 or 

lciraco@trinitas.org 

June 22, 2009 

First Andrew H. Campbell 

Memorial Sporting Clays 

Tournament 

Hudson Farm, Andover, NJ 

For information about event 

sponsorships and ticket availability, 

call Laura Ciraco, (908) 994-8249 or 

lciraco@trinitas.org 

Special Programs 

(Offered Free to Our Community) 

Look Good, Feel Better 

Thanks to a partnership of the American 

Cancer Society (ACS), the National 

Cosmetology Association, and the 

Cosmetic, Toiletry & Fragrance Association 

(CTFA) Foundation, Trinitas offers patients 

at its Comprehensive Cancer Center 

personal beauty tips and techniques 

that they can use everyday. 

Call Amparo Aguirre at (908) 994-8244 

for information and to register. 

Made For Me Boutique 

Appointments only. 

Call Amparo Aguirre at (908) 994-8244 

to register. 

Managing Your Medications: 

“Ask the Pharmacist” 

Offered the fourth Tuesday of every month, 

except December. 

February 24, March 24, April 27 

11:30 am - 1:00 pm 

Free of charge, by appointment only. 

Call (908) 994-5984. 

24 HEALTHYEDGE

All speakers, dates, times and locations were current as of press time. Readers are encouraged to call in advance if they wish 

to confirm any information published here about seminars, special events, classes, support groups or special programs. 

Support Groups (Offered Free to Our Community) 

Breast Cancer Support Group 

Meets third Monday of every month. 


11:00 am – 12:30 pm 

Conference Room A 

Trinitas Comprehensive Cancer Center 

225 Williamson Street, Elizabeth 

Open to patients, families, friends 

and loved ones. Please RSVP in 

English to Donna Filocamo, LCSW, 

at (908) 994-8730; in Spanish to 

Griselda Hildago, (908) 994-8535. 

Breast Feeding Support Group 

Friday mornings 

10:00 am - 11:30 am 

WIC Center 

1124 East Jersey Street, 

corner of Jefferson, Elizabeth 

Trinitas Hospital 

Auxiliary 

Continuing its tradition of volunteerism, 

community health education and 

commitment to the mission of Trinitas 

Hospital, the Auxiliary of Trinitas 

Hospital is a committed group of 

volunteers who dedicate their time 

and energy to a variety of events and 

programs. The Auxiliary fosters interest 

among its members and throughout 

the community in the work of Trinitas 

Hospital, provides and encourages 

volunteer service for and in the 

hospital, and sponsors and conducts 

fundraising activities for the benefit 

of the hospital. The Auxiliary also 

offers educational programs on healthrelated 

subjects for the community. 

Coping With Cancer 

Support Group 

Meets second Tuesday of every month 


2:00 pm – 4:00 pm 

Conference Room A 



Speakers address cancer-related topics. 

Economic Support Group 

Mondays 

11:00 am – 12:00 noon 

654 East Jersey Street, Elizabeth 

Call (908) 994-7559 to register. 

Wednesdays 

7:00 pm – 8:00 pm 

Family Resource Center 

300 North Avenue East, Cranford 


Sleep Disorders CPAP 

Support Group 

Quarterly meetings held on last 

Thursday of the month 

Jan. 29, April 30, July 30, Oct. 29 

7:00 pm – 9:00 pm 

Physicians Conference Room 



Classes 

Breast Feeding Classes 

Tuesday and Wednesday 

1:30 pm - 2:30 pm 

WIC Center 


Led by International Board 

Certified Lactation Specialists. 

Provided in English and Spanish 

(908) 994-5142 

Childhood Obesity Sessions 

Second Thursday of each month 

1:00 pm - 2:00 pm 

WIC Center 


Led by a Registered Dietician 

Provided in English and Spanish 

(908) 994-5219 

Nutrition Education Program 

for Expectant Mothers 

WIC Center 



Call Claudia Lopez, (908) 994-5142, 

for dates and registration 

Baby Shower for 

Expectant Mothers 

WIC Center 



Sessions about Prenatal Nutrition 

will be provided. 

Call Claudia Lopez, (908) 994-5142, 

for dates and registration 

Fruchter & Associates, LLC 

Lawyers working for you. 

We Make Hospital and Home Visits 

Harvey Fruchter • Jared Weiss 

For more information about how 

the activities of the Auxiliary benefit 

Trinitas Hospital, call the Auxiliary 

at (908) 994-8988 

Specializing in 

Tickets • Accidents • Wills 

726 Boulevard, Kenilworth, NJ 07033 

p 908.241.2626 f 908.245.5800 

MyNJlawyer@aol.com 

WINTER 2009 25

Nursing Care in the Battle 

Against Addictions by Bob Badner 

Relatively unknown to the general 

public, addictions nursing is a very 

specialized area of the profession that 

provides a beacon of hope to those 

who suffer from serious addictions. 

As remarkable as it sounds, there 

are just 369 licensed addictions nurses 

nationwide, each recognized as a 

Certified Addictions Registered Nurse 

(CARN) sponsored by the International 

Nurses Society on Addictions (INSA). 

These few treat thousands of patients. 

At Trinitas Regional Medical Center, 

three addictions nurses within a 35- 

member department care for 1,500 

admissions per year. Linda Chapman, 

supervisor of Addictions Services, has 

been with Trinitas since 1984, noting 

that Trinitas’ Addictions program 

began in the early 1990s. Andrea 

Krasno and Lenore Achor are the other 

two addictions nurses in 

the unit. 

Linda Chapman says patients who 

remain clean and sober “give people a 

sense of hope. It’s great for all of us 

and great for incoming clients.” Two 

success stories stand out. 

Deeply addicted to alcohol and 

cocaine, one full-fledged addict lost her 

administration job on a military base 

and her children to Family Services. 

Linda Chapman explains: “She lost 

everything, her youngest child was 

taken by DYFS. After finishing treatment 

at Trinitas and after being 

reunited with her kids, this collegeeducated 

mother was hired to do 

clerical work right here in Addiction 

Services.” 

“She studied hard and became a 

Lenore Achor, RN, CARN, Linda Chapman, RN, CARN, and Andrea Krasno, RN, CARN, 

are all certified in addictions nursing, an extremely specialized niche of nursing. 

certified alcohol and drug counselor for 

Trinitas and is nine years clean to this 

day,” beams Chapman. 

After conquering her cocaine addiction 

at Trinitas, another patient went 

on to achieve her Master’s degree. 

Even more extraordinary, she did her 

Master’s degree internship at Trinitas’ 

Addictions Services. She, too, was hired 

by Addictions Services as a licensed 

clinical social worker (LCSW). Linda 

Chapman says, “It’s a great story. 

Now 13 years clean, this former patient 

was hired as a clinician, who now 

does intakes.” 

Medical/surgical experience, 

mental-behavioral skills, and knowledge 

of addictive diseases and treatment 

therapies are among the necessary 

skills in the field. Addictive disorders 

can be very complicated to treat due 

to co-occurring conditions such as 

psychiatric illness and criminal behavior. 

The various types of addictions 

treated at Trinitas RMC include heroin 

(the drug of choice in Union County), 

alcohol, cocaine, marijuana, and 

gambling. Patient ages typically range 

26 HEALTHYEDGE

from 34 to 40 years old. Trinitas RMC 

treats all addictive patients on an 

outpatient basis and has three levels of 

care. Treatment includes group/individual 

counseling and medication where 

indicated. 

Chapman points to the Woman’s 

Addiction Program (WAP) as a prime 

example of how a supportive staff that 

works together effectively can achieve 

success and derive pride from what 

they do. “Women with Children” is a 

program tailored to meet the needs 

of the working mother. “A common 

strength among the staff is our ability 

to connect with the patient to create 

an environment where the patient feels 

safe,” notes Chapman. 

“I can’t imagine doing any other 

work. There’s nothing more satisfying, 

fulfilling or challenging. It’s most 

rewarding when a patient is three 

years clean” says Chapman. 

Combining Linda Chapman’s 

winning attitude along with skilled 

personnel, the Addictions Services 

Unit at Trinitas will continue to have a 

significant impact on the community 

its serves for years to come. 

Linda Chapman, RN, CARN, Andrea Krasno, RN, CARN, and Lenore Achor, RN, 

CARN, have worked in the field of addictions nursing for a combined total of almost 

60 years. 

Associates in ENT & Allergy PA 

Diego Saporta, MD 

Magalie Nelson, MD 

Certified, American Board 

of Otolaryngology 

A graduate of Syracuse University, 

Bob Badner has written magazine 

articles, essays, profiles and a 

documentary on Thomas Edison. 

His feature writing has covered satellite 

communications, electronic security, the 

theater exhibition business and the 

Internet. He has also been involved in 

media arts projects for Sesame Workshop, 

Nissan, Anheuser-Busch, AT&T, and the 

Muscular Dystrophy Association. 

470 North Avenue 

Elizabeth, NJ 07208 

908-352-6700 

www.disporta@allergydropsnj.com 

• Ears, Nose & Throat 

• Complete Management of Nasal Allergies 

• Comprehensive Audiological Testing 

• Hearing Healthcare by Licensed Audiologists 

• Hearing Aids 

WINTER 2009 27

Advanced Images Help 

Improve Cardiac Diagnoses by 

Rena Sandberg 

Trinitas Regional Medical Center is 

committed to employing the most 

advanced medical technologies to benefit 

each patient who walks through 

the door. Three innovative technologies 

in the field of cardiology diagnosis 

have recently become available. 

T-Wave Alternans Analysis 

In the last year, T-Wave Alternans 

Analysis came into use at Trinitas. This 

breakthrough non-invasive technique is 

used to diagnose patients who are at 

high risk for sudden cardiac death 

from fatal arrhythmias. Alice Forster, 

Manager of Diagnostic Services at 

Trinitas, explains that the new tool is 

used in conjunction with a stress test. 

“T-Wave Alternans is an analysis 

package that detects alternating 

ST-T patterns from beat to beat using 

computerized measurement. The 

presence of alternating waveforms is 

seen as a precursor of sudden cardiac 

death while and absence of these alternating 

waves indicates minimal risk.” 

Through this diagnostic tool, cardiologists 

can distinguish at risk patients 

more promptly and therefore develop 

appropriate treatment plans more 

quickly. 

Adenosine Stress Testing 

Patients in poor physical condition 

with lower limb amputation, peripheral 

vascular disease, severe arthritis, and 

orthopedic conditions that limit 

physical exertion can benefit from 

Adenosine Stress Testing. This test, 

which uses the drug Adenosine to 


stress the heart, can help determine 

whether or not there is substantial 

blood flowing to the heart during 

exercise versus at rest. Since Adenosine 

forces the body to react as if it were 

participating in physical activity by 

dilating the blood vessels and intensifying 

blood flow, patients who are 

unable to perform on a treadmill can 

greatly benefit from such a test. All 

patients with chest pain, irregular heart 

rhythms and high blood pressure are 

candidates for this diagnostic testing. 

This 2.5-hour long procedure 

begins by inserting an IV into the arm. 

“While the patient is lying down, the 

first isotope is injected and resting 

images are taken,” explains Forster. 

A gamma camera captures images 

which reveal if there is adequate blood 

flowing through the coronary arteries 

which supply the heart. 

Alice Forster continues: “Then 

following the infusion of Adenosine, 

which takes approximately four 

minutes, the cardiologist and cardiac 

nurse constantly monitor the patient’s 

heart rate and blood pressure. The 

second isotope is injected and after a 

30 minute wait, a second set of images 

is taken.” 

Side effects for those who undergo 

Adenosine Stress Testing are resolved 

quickly with minimal discomfort. 

3-Dimensional 

Echocardiography 

A new ultrasound system technology 

that creates 3-D images of the heart 

can also be found at Trinitas. 

This technology provides the physi-

cian with working knowledge about 

the integrity of the heart’s chambers 

and valves as well as the size and shape 

of the heart. It can also detect any 

problem with a great vessel or chamber 

in the heart, including life-threatening 

blood clots or fluid buildup. 

Performed in conjunction with a 

traditional echocardiogram, the 3-D 

echocardiogram has clinical capabilities 

that offer enhanced image quality, 

more valuable clinical information and 

heightened diagnostic confidence. 

“The 3-D application provides better 

visualization of complex anatomical 

features, left ventricular function and 

mitral valve anatomy,” says Forster. 

A conductive gel is placed on the 

patient’s chest at the start of the 45- 

minute procedure. An ultrasound 

probe which acquires images from different 

angles of the heart takes measurements 

of wall thickness and chamber 

size. Lastly, calculations of blood 

flow through the valves are made. 

Patients who experience chest pain, 

irregular heart rhythms and high blood 

pressure are candidates for this type of 

minimally invasive procedure. 

Rena Sandberg is a regular contributor 

to HealthyEdge. She has written stories 

on innovative surgical procedures as 

well as articles on various aspects of 

healthy lifestyles. 

Arthur Millman, MD, Chief of Cardiology, Alice Forster, RN, Manager, Diagnostic 

Services, Ifries Joseph, Chief Clinical Specialist (Echo), Marie Galeon and Marlene 

Perez-Mateo, Clinical Specialists (Echo), and Nancy DiLiegro, PhD, FACHE, Vice 

President of Clinical Services, are shown in the department. 

FUN FOR EVERYONE!!! 

Mount Hyatt Miniature Golf 

18-Hole Course 

Birthday Party Packages Available 

732-669-9100 

www.hyatthills.com 

• Challenging, Well-Maintained Nine Hole Golf Course (Par 36) 

• Driving Range (50 Stations) 

• Practice Bunker, Chipping & Putting Greens 

• Golf School, Private or Group Lessons 

• Well Stocked Pro Shop 

• Club Repairs & Fittings 

Open Daily 7AM to 10PM 

Public Welcome 

1300 Raritan Road (Clark/Cranford Borders) 

For more information 

about cardiac imaging 

at Trinitas RMC, 

call (908) 994-5082. 

Advanced Podiatry, P.A. 

Dr. Glenn Davison • Dr. Robert Hutchison 

Fellow American College of Foot & Ankle Surgeons | Diplomates, American Board of Podiatric Surgery 

Specializing in the medical and surgical treatments of: 

• Bunions & Hammertoes 

• Ingrown and Fungal Nails 

• Shockwave therapy for heel pain 

• Diabetic preventative and 

wound care 

• Ankle Arthroscopy 

• Corns, Callouses, and wart 

removal 

• Traumatic injuries to the 

foot and ankle 

• Biomechanic gait control with 

orthotics for deformities such as 

flat feet and arch pain 

We participate with Medicare, Medicaid, and most major insurance plans 

Union 

Manhattan 

1308 Morris Avenue 19 East 80th Street 

908.688.5577 212.737.2528 

WINTER 2009 29

Sisters of Charity Bring Thoughtful 

Caring to Special Ministries 

by Kathryn Salamone and Rena Sandberg 

(Editor’s Note: This is the second article that profiles members of the Sisters of Charity of Saint Elizabeth 

who have devoted their lives to religious service within the community.) 

Sister Mary Corrigan 

The only girl among six brothers, 

Sr. Mary Corrigan was born and raised 

in Jersey City. Religion was always paramount 

in her home where her parents 

instilled in her and her brothers the 

value of a strong faith and love of God. 

There was an emphasis on charity, she 

explains. “There was always someone 

less fortunate than we were,” says Sr. 

Mary. “Service to others was encouraged. 

Out of this came my desire to 

serve God and love God more by 

reaching out to those in need.” 

As a student, she observed her 

teachers who were members of the 

Sisters of Charity. Their dedication and 

outreach to others appealed to her. 

She felt a calling to enter the Sisters of 

Charity of Saint Elizabeth in 1961. 

Sister obtained a Bachelor’s degree in 

Education from the College of Saint 

Elizabeth, a Master’s in Education from 

Fairfield University in Connecticut, and 

a Supervision in Administration 

Certificate from Seton Hall University as 

well as Certificates in Spiritual 

Development and Pastoral Care. 

For more than 30 years, Sister’s primary 

ministry was in education and 

she could be found teaching in schools 

in Northern and Central New Jersey as 

well as in Pensacola, Florida. While an 

educator and school administrator, 

Sister became involved in Social 

Concerns Committees, helping to 

house the homeless, partnering with 

inner city schools, serving at soup 


kitchens. In the mid 1990’s 

this led to a visit to Mexico 

where she saw first hand 

the abject poverty of 

one room dwellings 

for several families 

and very visible 

community 

outreach to 

help the poor. 

“People I met 

took pride in 

what they were 

able to accomplish 

and willingly 

shared with others 

the little they had,” 

Sister recalls. 

She began the next 

phase of her vocation — 

Pastoral Care — although she 

readily admits that she wasn’t sure who 

wanted to minister to the sick. Since 

2003, she has been the Director of 

Pastoral Care, where as chaplain at 

Trinitas, she addresses the emotional, 

physical and spiritual needs of the 

patients, family members and the staff. 

“While it is difficult at times, it certainly 

is a rewarding, enriching and spiritual 

experience,” says Sister Mary. “It is an 

honor and a privilege to be with people 

when they are most vulnerable.” 

As Vice President of Mission 

Effectiveness at Trinitas, Sister Mary 

provides leadership, guidance and 

direction to carry out the mission and 

values of Trinitas through educational 

Sister Mary Corrigan 

programs that work interdepartmentally 

to develop and maintain a culture 

that reflects the Mission of Trinitas. 

“There are many challenges in 

healthcare today — government 

regulations, changes in the practice of 

medicine, legal issues, uninsured and 

underinsured patients, homelessness, 

undocumented persons, behavioral 

mental health, end of life issues, the 

quality of life, charity care reimbursement, 

needs of the elderly, palliative 

care. All of this calls me to serve the 

people of God, to change hurt into 

hope,” concludes Sister Mary.

Sister Marcella Nolan 

Sister Marcella Nolan 

Growing up in an Irish Catholic family 

in Jersey City, Sister Marcella Nolan 

attributes her vocation to the religious 

life to the faith that was instilled in her 

at an early age. Sister Marcella didn’t 

have far to look for inspiration. In addition 

to the example of her parents, 

many relatives within her extended 

family were members of the clergy. 

“Love of God and neighbor were 

part of the earliest lessons I learned 

from my parents and from others in 

my very large family. That abiding 

faith was reinforced through my 

Catholic schooling,” she explains. 

Most of Sister Marcella’s 44 years 

as a member of the Sisters of Charity 

have been spent in the hospital setting. 

At the Hospital of St. Raphael in New 

Haven, Connecticut, Sister served as 

Assistant Director of Personnel and 

then Assistant Administrator after 

completing her Master’s degree in 

Health Care Administration. 

Following her 13 years in 

Connecticut, Sr. Marcella began her 

ministry in Elizabeth at St. Elizabeth’s 

Hospital, one of the precursors of 

Trinitas Regional Medical Center. Upon 

joining the staff as Vice President of 

General Services, she took 

on the responsibility 

of overseeing broad 

areas in the workings 

of the hospital, 

including the 

departments of 

Communications, 

Environmental 

Services, Food 

Services, Respiratory 

Therapy, and 

Women Infants and 

Children (WIC), to 

name a few. Prior to 

her current position as 

Patient Advocate/ 

Administrative Liaison, Sister 

Marcella also held an administrative 

post as Executive Director of 

the Marillac Corporation which owns 

and manages the Medical Office 

Building on the Williamson Street 

Campus. As site manager, Sister 

Marcella gained insight into the field of 

property management and real estate. 

Sister believes that her administrative 

background has been a valuable 

asset as she works to assure the best 

possible outcomes for patients at 

Trinitas RMC. “The whole Trinitas family 

is committed to the mission of delivering 

the best possible care to all of 

our customers,” Sister stresses. As part 

of that commitment, Sister also serves 

on the Steering Committee of the 

Customer Satisfaction effort at Trinitas 

where she helps to develop appropriate 

programs and activities to ensure 

customer satisfaction. 

HOPE VILLAGE 

Peter M. Shields 

Administrative Office 

(908) 889-7780 

PEGGY COLONEY’S HOUSE 

Hospice Residence 

1900 Raritan Road 

Scotch Plains, NJ 07076 

(908) 288-0500 

As Sister Marcella looks back on 

her almost five decade career as a 

religious, she is also reminded of the 

years she spent in the business world 

prior to entering the Sisters of Charity. 

“Although my life before entering 

the convent was rewarding, I always 

felt that I wanted to make a greater 

contribution, one on a higher level. 

Devoting myself to God and His people 

has given me personal satisfaction in a 

way I had not experienced before.” 

Sister Monica Vinges 

For more than three decades, 

Sister Monica Vinges, who is a Licensed 

Professional Counselor and Licensed 

Clinical Social Worker, has counseled 

parents and children and been a contributor 

to journals in the field. Today, 

she is a member of the Department of 

Behavioral Health & Psychiatry at 

Trinitas Regional Medical Center. 

As a young woman, Sr. Monica 

sensed that she was “called to something 

deeper.” That calling led her 

to the Sisters of Charity in 1960. Sr. 

Monica’s hunger to learn drove her 

to obtain her first Master’s Degree in 

counseling and a second in Social 

Work. These credentials spurred her to 

work as a clinical counselor for children 

and families who were afflicted with 

cancer, as a trainer to prepare caregivers 

to be better equipped to work 

with children, and later as an 

Outpatient Clinician and Supervisor. 

HOPE CHEST 

Hospice Resale Shop 

26 Prospect Street 

Westfield, NJ 07090 

(908) 233-9973 

Robert J. Coloney, President & CEO 

www.centerforhope.com 

Equal Opportunity Employer 


ACADIA HOUSE 

Bereavement and Grief 

Counseling Center 

175 Glenside Avenue 

Scotch Plains, NJ 07076 

(908) 654-3711 

FATHER HUDSON HOUSE 

Hospice Residence 

111 De Hart Place 


(908) 353-6060 

WINTER 2009 31

CHIROPRACTIC 

CENTRE OF 

ELIZABETH 

CHIROPRACTIC CARE 

FOR ADULTS & CHILDREN 

MUA 

(Manipulation Under Anesthesia) 

As seen on Channel 2 news 

FERNANDO BARRESE, DC 

CHRISTOPHER J. MONTANA, DC 

• Auto Accidents 

• Sports Injuries 

• Headaches 

• Disc Problems 

• Whiplash 

• Work Related Injuries 

• Low Back Pain 

• Leg & Arm Pain 

• Neck Pain 

• Scoliosis 

All Injuries and 

Major Medical Accepted 

All X-Rays Done on Premises 

New Patients Seen Same Day 

Se Habla Espanol • 

Francais • Italian • Hebrew 

• 3 Minutes from Garden State Pkwy 

• 3 Minutes from Newark Intl Airport 

Off Route 1 

908-289-5336 

— Free Parking in Rear — 

426 Morris Avenue, Elizabeth 

Other locations to serve you better: 

Jersey City 

2770 Kennedy Blvd, 1st floor 

201-761-0412 

Newark 

509 Orange St. 

973-268-2226 

Wallington 

436 Main St. 

973-365-1700 

Sister Monica Vinges 

In her current role as a Clinical Social 

Worker and Supervisor in the Adult 

Outpatient Unit for the Department of 

Behavioral Health & Psychiatry, Sr. Monica 

conducts a variety of programs and 

support groups for individual and group 

psychotherapy. Participants in a post 

traumatic stress disorder group, those 

in a group designed to help participants 

live life more positively, those 

who are coping with death and loss, 

and those who are working to management 

symptoms of anxiety and 

depression all benefit from the depth 

and breadth of Sr. Monica’s knowledge 

and experience. Sister uses the wellness 

recovery model that she describes as 

“offering hope and the possibility to 

transform on a personal 

level.” 

Sr. Monica believes 

that group therapy is a 

significant benefit to 

patients. “Group 

therapy lets the 

patients get feedback 

from their 

peers. It makes 

them feel that they 

are not alone in the 

world,” she said. 

Knowing she is touching 

the lives of others, 

Sr. Monica considers her 

job tremendously gratifying. 

“I believe that God speaks 

through me. When someone tells 

me that I have helped them change 

their lives, it is an awesome feeling.” 

As a faculty member of the General 

Psychiatry Residency program at Trinitas 

Regional Medical Center, Sr. Monica 

shares her insights and experience in 

monthly lectures designed to educate 

medical residents about spirituality, 

mental health, group therapy, and 

bereavement. 

Looking ahead to celebrating 

50 years as a Sister of Charity in 2010, 

Sister Monica shows no signs of slowing 

down. “My work has been so 

satisfying and rewarding that I plan to 

continue until my health may prevent 

me from keeping up with my current 

schedule. I am thankful that my life as 

a religious has enabled me to pursue 

my professional life in Social Work.” 

Tired of Climbing Stairs 

Since 1946 

627 PARK AVENUE • PLAINFIELD 

CALL FOR A FREE BROCHURE 1-800-287-1793 

32 HEALTHYEDGE

Singing the Praises of Trinitas Regional Medical Center 

HEALTHYEDGE is pleased to share these unsolicited letters from those 

who recently received care at our facilities in Elizabeth. 

On behalf of the B. family, I’d 

like to thank you and your staff for 

the extraordinary and caring treatment 

that our dad received in the 

3 ½ years he was under the care of 

Trinitas doctors. We all believe the 

care at Trinitas added years to his 

life and kept him off dialysis. The 

care provided by everyone, including 

doctors, nurses, technicians, 

aides, and everyone else was 

superior. The compassion, concern, 

humor and attention to our father’s 

care resulted in a quality of life that 

was far superior to the alternative. 

I can tell you Trinitas is in a league 

by itself, period. 

The Emergency Department, 

Radiology, the staff on 7 South, the 

Social Work Department and EMS 

Transport — the list goes on. The 

caring and empathy, the support 

during difficult times, the efficiency 

as we transitioned to hospice care 

are all to be applauded. 

We thank you, your team and 

everyone involved for their compassion 

and concern. 

Mr. and Mrs. I. B. 

Mr. and Mrs. H. B. 

Mrs. F.B. 

My Father, age 86, was recently 

hospitalized at Trinitas. I want to 

express my gratitude to the staff 

members who cared for him. I’d like to 

recognize a Nurse’s Assistant, Raphael 

(Raffi), who was very attentive, caring 

and compassionate to him and our 

entire family. There were other wonderful 

staff member on the 6th floor 

unit, however, I do not recall their 

names. At every step of the way, the 

staff was superb. After a horribly difficult 

night, I was able to leave the hospital 

knowing that my father was in 

good hands. Thank you. 

Mrs. M. H. 

I am indebted to the main campus 

of Trinitas and to its clinics for taking 

care of me for more than six years. 

I had the good fortune of receiving 

care beginning in 2001 when my 

health deteriorated. I believe that 

they gave extra years to my life. I am 

alive and able to say I am so grateful. 

I wish Trinitas Regional Medical 

Center the best in its efforts to serve 

the ill in our community. 

Mrs. J. P. 

When it was apparent that my 

15 year old autistic son needed 

specialized professional care, I 

brought him to the Psychiatric 

Unit at the New Point Campus of 

Trinitas in Elizabeth. This was a very 

traumatic episode for me but the 

members of the Trinitas staff who 

I dealt with that day were a tremendous 

help. They were warm, kind, 

understanding and extremely helpful. 

Our lives changed for the better. 

Realizing I was exhausted and 

extremely stressed, a staff member 

was caring and compassionate. 

This person understood my 

concerns about leaving my son 

in a strange place and assured me 

that D. would be okay. I’m happy 

to report that my son, who has 

difficulty relating to new people 

he meets, was able to bond 

quickly with one of the behavioral 

specialists in the Dually Diagnosed 

Disorders unit. We owe her a great 

debt. The social worker we met 

dealt with difficult situations with 

grace and elegance and was able 

to communicate tough news and 

made it easier to take in. 

This was a traumatic experience 

for D. but I believe that he was 

in the best place to fix his issues. 

During D.’s time at Trinitas everyone 

treated us as if we were family. 

We got hugs from just about everyone 

on the day D. left. I will never 

be able to thank everyone appropriately 

but want them to know that 

they are an amazing and caring 

staff and we will never forget how 

well we were treated. 

Mr. J.G. 

WINTER 2009 33

Foundation Focus: News of the Trinitas Health Foundation 

by Kathryn Salamone 

THE TRUSTEES OF THE TRINITAS HEALTH FOUNDATION: 

CHANNELING DIVERSE BACKGROUNDS INTO A COMMON GOAL 

Professional accomplishment 

coupled with a desire to strive to 

improve the community are qualities 

that define the members of the Trinitas 

Health Foundation Board. Another 

quality is stamina as reflected in our 

spry and committed 87-year old 

Board member. 

“Serving on the Trinitas Health 

Foundation Board requires dedicated 

time and energy that our trustees give 

so willingly,” notes Nadine Brechner, 

Executive Director of the Foundation. 

“By drawing from their personal and 

professional knowledge and their depth 

of experience, Board members combine 

their talents to help establish goals 

and identify ways to meet the challenges 

that face non-profit organizations 

such as ours in today’s economic 

climate. Board participation is more 

than meeting on a regular basis to 

review current circumstances. It 

requires keen insight, teamwork, and 

dedication to the hopes and dreams 

that we hope to realize, even in the 

face of harsh economic realities.” 

The primary responsibilities of the 

Trinitas Health Foundation are to raise 

funds and to invest and monitor the 

assets of the Foundation. In addition, 

the Board members approve disbursements 

to Trinitas to meet specific 

equipment or program needs. 

In previous issues of HealthyEdge 

we have introduced members of the 

Trinitas Health Foundation Board of 

Trustees. We conclude these introductions 

in this issue. 

Carroll Keating 

Carroll Keating has been a marketing and sales 

professional in the metropolitan New York and 

Washington, DC, areas for the last 25 years. While 

marketing manager at Source One International in 

New York, NY, Ms. Keating generated business in 

sales and service equivalent to 25% of the company’s 

overall sales. She completed her bachelor’s degree 

in psychology in three years at Hollins University in 

Roanoke, Virginia. Her community work includes 

association with Habitat for Humanity, Susan G. 

Komen for the Cure, American Cancer Institute, and 

AmeriCare. She is enjoys golf, tennis and squash and 

serves as the Westfield, New Jersey Lacrosse coach. 

Sol Kramer 

A post-World War II Polish émigré, Mr. Kramer 

has a lifetime of varied experience in the divergent 

fields of dental hygiene, law enforcement, and real 

estate development. He is passionately devoted to 

fundraising for his adopted causes, the latest of 

which is Trinitas Regional Medical Center where he 

was a recent patient whose life-threatening illness 

was successfully treated. Mr. Kramer serves on the 

Board of the Jewish Educational Center in Union, 

the Jewish Federation, Jewish Family Service and the 

YMHA/YWHA located in Union. He and his wife 

have been married for nearly six decades. 

34 HEALTHYEDGE

Michael Minitelli 

Born and raised in Elizabeth and a graduate 

of Seton Hall University, Mr. Minitelli owned and 

operated the Hudson Discount Drug Company, 

a retail health and beauty aids establishment in 

Bayonne, New Jersey, for almost 25 years. Since 

1993, as Director of Economic Development in 

Union Township, Mr. Minitelli has been instrumental 

in helping to create substantial growth in the township 

by attracting new businesses to the community 

including, Home Depot, Walmart, Target, Lowes, 

and Whole Foods. He previously served as a Trustee 

of the Union Hospital Foundation. 

Paul D. Napoli 

A graduate of Stevens Institute of Technology with 

a Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, Paul D. Napoli 

also holds a Master’s degree in finance from Seton Hall 

University. Mr. Napoli is Manager of the Transmission 

Division of Public Service Electric and Gas of New Jersey 

(PSE&G). He has offered his financial expertise to the 

community while serving on the Financial Advisory 

Committee of Rockaway Township in Morris County. 

Courtney Villani 

While a student at Hofstra University, Courtney 

Villani focused on sociology and anthropology and 

became a Volunteer Firefighter and Director of the 

After School and Summer Programs at Uniondale, 

NY. A member of Business and Professional Women 

International, she serves as a corporate officer of the 

Villani Bus Company in Linden where she is also a 

Co-Chair of the Linden Chamber of Commerce. In 

addition, she is also a Trustee of the New Jersey 

School Bus Owners Association. 

Sister Clare Maureen Tracy 

Sister Clare received her BS 

degree in Radiology from St. Louis 

University. Since then, she has served 

St. Elizabeth Hospital and its successor, 

Trinitas Regional Medical Center, 

for a total of 50 years which she 

considers her life’s work and devotion. 

In addition to her work on the 

Foundation Board, Sr. Clare Maureen 

is also a member of the Board of the 

Auxiliary of Trinitas RMC. She is a 

familiar face at the Information Desk 

of the Williamson Street Campus. 

Mary Patricia Keefe 

A graduate of Douglass College 

of Rutgers University with a degree 

in political science and psychology, 

Mary Patricia Keefe later received 

her JD degree from Seton Hall 

University School of Law. 

Following admission to the 

New Jersey Bar Association, 

Ms. Keefe was employed by the 

New Jersey Board of Public Utilities 

as a Regulatory Officer for the 

agency. Ms. Keefe joined the 

Elizabethtown Gas Company in 

1980 where she has served in 

several legal, regulatory and 

compliance positions. She is 

currently a Director of Regulatory 

Affairs, Mid-Atlantic Region for AGL 

Resources, Inc., Elizabethtown’s 

parent company. She is a member 

of the American and NJ Bar 

Associations and the American 

Gas Association. 

WINTER 2009 35

FOUNDATION FOCUS 

Tricia D. Mullaney 

A cum laude graduate of Georgetown University, Tricia D. Mullaney also holds 

Master’s degrees in Russian and Eastern European studies and Education from the 

University of Michigan. Her background in education has encouraged her interest 

in working with at-risk children. Currently employed as a financial manager in 

Westfield, Ms. Mullaney has a long established interest in Trinitas affairs. 

Debra S. Valenti 

A graduate of the University of South Carolina with a bachelor’s degree in 

journalism, Ms. Valenti is currently Vice President of Client Services at W.P. Stewart 

& Company, the asset management firm based in New York, New York, where 

she has served since 1984. Her career with that organization which specializes 

in client securities portfolio management, asset management and client marketing 

has included positions as portfolio administrator, associate portfolio manager 

and client support specialist which led to her current leadership role. She is a 

member of the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals 

(ASPCA) and also serves on the Board of Trustees of Ocean Beach Surf Club, 

Lavalette, New Jersey. 

PAUL J.P. BOLANOWSKI, MD 

JUSTIN SAMBOL, MD 

Constantino Lovoulos, MD 

PRACTICE LIMITED TO CARDIOTHORACIC SURGERY 

With Staff Privileges at Trinitas Hospital and University Hospital 

219 South Broad Street, Elizabeth, NJ 

908-352-8110 

Trinitas Health Foundation 

Board of Trustees 

Officers: 

John C. Gibardi, Chairman 

Thomas S. Kachelriess, Vice Chair 

Susan Head, Vice Chair 

Eugene J. Carmody, Treasurer 

Gary S. Horan, FACHE, 

President & CEO 

Jan Margolis, Secretary 

Elinor K. Blore 

Joseph Cantalupo 

George A. Castro 

Martha DeNoble 

Richard English 

Botond Farkas 

Catherine J. Flynn, Esq. 

Diane M. Francis, MPH, CCS 

Thomas D. Jacobson 

Carroll Keating 

Mary Patricia Keefe 

Sol Kramer 

Vito Mazza 

Kevin McCloskey 

Robin McHugh 

Michael Minitelli 

Tricia Mullaney 

Paul D. Napoli 

Sister Clare Maureen Tracy 

Debra S. Valenti 

Courtney Villani 

Honorary Trustees 

John M. Boozan, MD 

Jerome Eckenthal 

Harold Krevsky, Esq. 

Gloria H. Piserchia 

Robert Silbey, MD 

36 HEALTHYEDGE

WE’VE GROWN INTO A NEW NAME. 

Trinitas Hospital is now 

Trinitas Regional Medical Center 

Behavioral Health • Cancer • Cardiology • Maternal/Child Health • Renal • School of Nursing 

Senior Services • Sleep Disorders • Women’s Services • Wound Healing/Diabetes Management 

We’re everywhere you need us. 

Trinitas is growing, and that’s good news for you and your family. We believe that our new name more 

accurately reflects the level of care we provide as we strive to meet the healthcare needs of 

our region. 

Please visit www.TrinitasRMC.org to learn more about us and our Centers of Excellence. Join our 

email list and receive free e-newsletters, announcements of free health screenings, and news of free 

health seminars. 

225 WILLIAMSON STREET • ELIZABETH, NJ 07207 • 908.994.5000 • WWW.TRINITASRMC.ORG 

Caring for You in Every Way 

Trinitas Regional Medical Centeer is a Catholic Teaching Hospital sponsored by the Sisters of Charity of Saint Elizabeth in partnership with Elizabethtown Healthcare Foundation. 

WINTER 2009 37

Cancer Survivors Put Best Foot Forward 

as They Model Latest Fashions 


Photos by: Al Kruper

Women of Union County were educated 

about advancements in breast 

cancer treatments while also learning 

beauty and fashion tips at the recent 

Breast Cancer Luncheon that the 


hosted in Union. Held during Breast 

Cancer Awareness Month, the luncheon, 

attended by more than 100 

women, showcased the latest in medical 

treatments for breast cancer and 

how women can safeguard their breast 

health through education and awareness. 

On a lighter side, the event 

featured a make up presentation by 

cosmeticians from the Bobbie Brown 

line of skin care products a display of 

fashion trends to make the best of a 

woman’s outward features. 

Shown here is a gallery of photos 

taken at the Galloping Hill Inn as models 

captured the feeling of the season while 

conveying the important messages of 

preventive health care and optimism 

while surviving cancer never go out 

of style. 

Dr. Lisa Febles 

Henson of 

Trinitas CCC 

shared the latest 

information about 

cancer treatments 

for women. 

Surgeon James Frost, MD, spoke about 

surgical options for women facing various 

types of cancer. 

Dr. Labib E. Riachi informed the 

audience of surgical techniques 

he uses for women who suffer 

with the embarrassment of 

incontinence. 

WINTER 2009 39

Hospital Beat: People and Events of Note 

DRILL DRIVES HOME THE POINT OF PREPAREDNESS 

Residents of Union County can rest 

easy knowing that first responders and 

the entire staff at Trinitas Regional 

Medical Center are exactingly prepared 

for crises and emergency events. As a 

medical center located less than 20 

miles from New York City in a densely 

populated urban center and also in the 

shadow of a major international airport, 

TRMC takes its disaster response 

responsibility very seriously. 

“In cooperation with Union County, 

Trinitas Regional Medical Center enacted 

a significant four-day crisis scenario 

designed to test our ability to respond 

at a moment’s notice to an unfolding 

major medical emergency,” explained 

Michael McIntyre, Director of Support 

Services and Plant Operations/ 

Administration at Trinitas, who served 

as the “Incident Commander” during 

the mock crisis. 

The drill called for the activation of 

the Trinitas Emergency Operations 

Center. Throughout the four-day period, 

decisions were made and measures 

were adopted at crisis response meetings 

to deal with the crisis and respond 

to patients. 

Philip E. Solomon, Emergency 

Preparedness Coordinator at Trinitas, 

noted that the 96-hour exercise simulated 

an infectious disease event that 

saw the influx of more than 100 simulated 

patients into Trinitas. “During the 

crisis simulation, more than 120 staff 

members from departments and functions 

throughout the medical center 

actively participated,” explained 

Solomon. “In real-life circumstances, 

such an event exerts an impact on the 

entire hospital and in this drill we put 

everyone through the paces of 

Members of the Crisis Response team meet in the “Incident Command Center.” 

responding to an emergency of significant 

magnitude.” 

“Union County is very serious about 

emergency preparedness, and conducting 

crisis exercises with the health care 

community is a vital part of our overall 

plan,” said Freeholder Board Chairman 

Angel G. Estrada. “The County’s 

Division of Health coordinated this 

exercise with Trinitas Regional Medical 

Center to help ensure that medical 

services in our region are ready for any 

contingency.” 

VILLANI BUS COMPANY 

1920 - Generations of Service – 2009 

Buses for All Occasions ~ Excellence In Transportation 

Phone 908-862-3333 Fax 908-474-8058 

Need a bus Call us! 

40 HEALTHYEDGE

TRINITAS HELPS COMMUNITY TO TAKE 

CHARGE IN A TOUGH ECONOMY 

At the end of 2008, Trinitas 

Regional Medical Center realized 

that it could play an important part 

in helping people manage the stresses 

of the current economic situation. 

In response to the bleak news on the 

economic front, the Department of 

Behavioral Health & Psychiatry has 

taken a pro-active step to ease the 

mental and emotional burdens of job 

loss on individuals and families in 

Elizabeth and other Union County 

communities. 

Beginning in January, Trinitas 

now offers free weekly support groups 

for those experiencing job loss or 

downsizing related to the deep recession. 

The support groups offered in 

Cranford and Elizabeth are designed 

to provide assistance in learning how 

to cope with the multiple challenges 

that the recession presents. 

individuals are under a great deal 

of stress,” says James Lape, Senior 

Vice President/Behavioral Health & 

Psychiatry and Long Term Care. 

“The support groups offer opportunities 

for people to share their concerns 

under the guidance of mental health 

professionals who can provide positive 

suggestions and recommendations for 

improving coping skills to help during 

these very difficult times.” 

Support groups are offered during 

the day in Elizabeth as well as the 

evening in Cranford. The Elizabeth 

location (654 East Jersey Street) hosts 

support groups on Mondays 11:00 am 

–12:00 pm. Call (908) 994-7559 to 

register. The Cranford location 

(300 North Avenue East) hosts 

support groups Wednesday evenings 

7:00-8:00 pm. Register by calling 

(908) 276-2244. 

“Many people understandably 

are having a very difficult time coping 

with paying their bills. Families and 

SUPPORT GROUPS: 

Elizabeth (654 East Jersey Street) 

Mondays 11:00 am - 12:00 pm 

(908) 994-7559 

Cranford (300 North Avenue East) 

Wednesdays 7:00 - 8:00 pm 

(908) 276-2244 

Seafood & Steakhouse 

Trinitas Staff ID gets 10% Discount 

FREE DELIVERY (Min. $30.00) 

Open 7 Days a Week from 7:00am to Midnight 

Since 1974 

511 Elizabeth Ave. 


Phone: (908) 289-4011 

www.alvarezcafe.com 

Luxury Condos for Sale 

Visit our website at 

www.alvarezcondos.com 

WINTER 2009 41

Vital Signs: Trinitas Comprehensive Cancer Center News 

by Kathryn Salamone 

TCCC IS FIRST IN NEW JERSEY WITH RAPIDARC TECHNOLOGY 

In late 2008, Trinitas Comprehensive 

Cancer Center became the first cancer 

treatment center in the state to offer 

its cancer patients RapidArc radiotherapy 

technology, using a fast, 

precise form of treatment using 

advanced technology from Varian 

Medical Systems. This revolutionary 

radiotherapy technology, 80% faster 

than conventional radiation, can make 

a significant difference in the patient’s 

outcome. 

Comments from the first patient to 

receive RapidArc treatment at Trinitas 

CCC attest to that. 

“I am pleased that my treatment 

was changed to RapidArc,” said 60- 

year-old Miguel Gomez of Newark, 

New Jersey. “This new technology is 

faster and lets me complete my treatment 

in under two minutes. Before 

RapidArc, I would have to lay still for 

close to half an hour and there were 

times it was uncomfortable and difficult 

for me. Now I am in and out 

quickly and back to my daily routine.” 

RapidArc is an image-guided 

intensity-modulated radiotherapy 

(IMRT) treatment that takes about 90 

seconds to deliver, which is markedly 

faster than other medical facilities 

where treatment time can last as 

much as 20 minutes or longer. During 

a RapidArc treatment, the radiation 

beam is continually shaped and 

reshaped according to the size, shape, 

and position of the tumor in the body. 

As a result, the delivery of radiation is 

many times faster than conventional 

radiotherapy, which creates another 

benefit of greater comfort and convenience 

for patients. 

“RapidArc makes it possible for us 


Clarissa Febles Henson, MD, Chairman of Radiation Oncology, explains benefits of 

RapidArc to a patient at Trinitas CCC. 

to deliver IMRT treatments quickly,” 

said Dr. Lisa Henson, Chair of Radiation 

Oncology at Trinitas. “These treatments 

target tumors accurately while 

sparing the surrounding healthy tissues. 

Because the treatment is fast, it is also 

easier on the patient. Patients who had 

difficulty holding still for long periods 

of time, are now able to receive their 

treatment in less time, thereby allowing 

us to improve quality of care while 

simultaneously making patients more 

comfortable.” 

This advanced treatment technique 

is accomplished using the Trilogy linear 

accelerator. Trinitas was the first in 

New Jersey to offer patient treatments 

on this state of the art equipment. The 

Trilogy delivers RapidArc treatments 

using a beam-shaping device called a 

multi-leaf collimator (MLC). This device 

has 120 computer-controlled mechanical 

“leaves” or “fingers” that move to 

create apertures of different shapes and 

sizes. During a RapidArc treatment, 

specialized software algorithms vary 

three parameters simultaneously: the 

speed of rotation around the patient, 

the shape of the MLC aperture, and 

the dose delivery rate. 

“We’re very pleased to offer another 

technological first for our patients at 

Trinitas,” says Gary S. Horan, FACHE, 

President and Chief Executive Officer. 

“This technology makes Trinitas a 

regional leader in substantially improving 

cancer treatment outcomes by 

doing a better job of protecting 

healthy tissue while delivering more 

powerful radiation doses to tumors.”

NEW ENVIRONMENT FOR HIGH DOSE RADIATION DEBUTS, 

THANKS TO DONOR’S LEGACY 

Through a generous contribution 

from a now deceased donor who was 

a resident of Elizabeth and active 

volunteer at Elizabeth General Medical 

Center, Trinitas Comprehensive Cancer 

Center recently re-located its High-Dose 

Rate (HDR) Brachytherapy to a comfortable 

environment at the Center. 

“With this generous gift, we have 

been able to bring the HDR service 

into the Cancer Center which continues 

to affirm our strong commitment 

to cancer care,” said Gary S. Horan, 

FACHE, President and CEO of Trinitas 

Regional Medical Center. 

High-Dose Rate (HDR) Brachytherapy 

is a form of radiation treatment, also 

known as interstitial irradiation. In 

Brachytherapy, a radiation source is 

placed directly within or near the 

tumor site which allows for a faster 

and more effective delivery of radiation 

treatment with the maximum dose 

given where it is needed most. 

Through this technique minimal 

radiation reaches surrounding healthy 

tissue. Traditionally, HDR brachytherapy 

has been used to treat cancers of the 

cervix and endometrium, bronchus, 

esophagus, head and neck, and soft 

tissue sarcomas. Currently at Trinitas 

CCC, HDR is used for Mammosite, 

endometrial and cervical cancers, and 

Endobronchial Radiation. 

“Henry Hill ‘Hank’ Carroll always 

helped our patients,” explained Nadine 

Brechner, Executive Director, Trinitas 

Health Foundation. “This is ultimately a 

gift to even more patients who will 

benefit from being able to have all of 

their treatments and visits in one location. 

Through his gift, Hank’s legacy of 

caring continues.” 

Linda Veldkamp, MS, DABR, Chief 

Medical Physicist and Administrative 

Director of Radiation Oncology, assists 

with the patient setup to deliver the 

high dose radiation. High Dose Rate 

Remote Afterloading (HDR) radiation 

treatments are particularly useful in 

treating a variety of cancers including 

cervical, endometrial, breast, lung 

and prostate. 

TRINITAS WELCOMES PHYSICIANS IN NEW 

GYNECOLOGIC ONCOLOGY PROGRAM 

Patrick Anderson, MD, FACOG, and Gara M. Sommers, MD, both board certified 

Gynecologic Oncologists, now lead the Gynecologic Oncology Program at the Trinitas 

Comprehensive Cancer Center. Drs. Anderson and Sommers bring with them tremendous 

experience and expertise in gynecologic oncology procedures including minimally invasive 

robotic surgery. 

Dr. Anderson completed his obstetric, gynecological residency and oncology fellowship 

at Albert Einstein College of Medicine and is a graduate of the University of Medicine and 

Dentistry of New Jersey Medical School. Dr. Sommers completed her residency at New York 

University School of Medicine and fellowships at Memorial Sloan-Kettering in New York, 

Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, MO, and The Beckman Institute of 

Hope in Duarte, CA. 

Drs. Gara Sommers 

and Patrick Anderson 

In their new roles at Trinitas, Drs. Anderson and Sommers will collaborate with community physicians and Trinitas 

Comprehensive Cancer Center Medical and Radiation Oncologists to develop and expand clinical programs and support 

services for patients with gynecologic cancers. Their presence on the medical staff adds a new dimension of cancer care and 

treatment to the multidisciplinary team currently at TCCC. 

WINTER 2009 43

ELIZABETH AND JERSEY GARDENS MALL: 

PERFECT TOGETHER FOR LOCAL BUSINESS 

Local businesses have a chance to 

be better equipped to face tough 

economic times, thanks to a joint effort 

of the City of Elizabeth, Union County 

College and the Retail Skills Center at 

Jersey Gardens Mall. Here, businesses 

can take part in new job training and 

placement programs designed to help 

them succeed in this tough economic 

climate. 

Both the City and the Retail Skills 

Center recognize that finding skilled 

workers and keeping them properly 

trained are top challenges for businesses 

throughout Elizabeth. Two new programs 

to address these challenges are 

available at no charge to city business 

owners. The Retail Skills Center, operated 

by Union County College, provides 

employers with tuition-free training for 

their employees including, but not limited 

to business writing, basic skills, 

communication, customer service, 

team building, and telephone techniques 

as well as supervisory and management 

skills. This free service is made 

possible through a new grant from the 

New Jersey Department of Labor. 

Connecting qualified candidates 

with job openings in city businesses 

is now possible through an Urban 

Enterprise Zone grant made available 

through the City of Elizabeth. Offering 

assistance to the Retail Skills Center 

and employers, the City will provide 

support for a variety of initiatives, 

including a three-week program in 

customer service and career preparation 

leading to a Union County College 

certificate. 

Mayor J. Christian Bollwage talked with 

young people about skills training and 

job placement opportunities offered at 

the Retail Skills Center, a new joint partnership 

with the City of Elizabeth, Union 

County College and Jersey Gardens Mall. 

44 HEALTHYEDGE

225 Williamson Street 

Elizabeth, New Jersey 07207

Exclusive Interview - Trinitas Hospital

Create successful ePaper yourself

Delete template?

Save as template?