1. health and fitness
2. disease
3. cancer

JUNE 2015
in
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ea
2Y
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Lee Memorial Hospital
HealthPark Medical Center
Devoted to Excellence
in Health Care
Inside
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Surviving Cancer
Requires Special Support
and Care
The reality of a cancer
diagnosis hits hard. For
Michele Turns, a triple
negative breast cancer
diagnosis left her
feeling like she was hit
by a ton of bricks.
City Center Combines
Rehabilitation and Wellness
Services
Pediatric Cardiologist Treats
Adult Patient
A Perfect Fit: The 3-D Knee
AgePlayTM Provides Interactive
Experience on Challenges of
Aging Alone
100 Years
2016 marks our 100th anniversary.
Share your stories, photos or
memories with us by emailing
100Years@LeeMemorial.org.
Michele Turns
“When Dr. [David] Rock told me that the lump in my
left breast was cancer, I told him I wanted a bilateral
mastectomy,” Michele says. “I wanted that cancer out
of my body and I didn’t want to worry about my other
breast.”
Michele worked with occupational and physical therapy
to alleviate her peripheral neuropathy—the tingling
and pain in her hands—and balance issues. She also
met with the palliative care team and tried acupuncture
to aid in her recovery.
That option was drastic and not one that Dr. Rock
supported. Instead, he recommended a lumpectomy to
remove the cancerous mass and a sentinel node biopsy
to check whether the cancer had spread to other lymph
nodes in Michele’s body. The cancer had not spread,
but Michele’s oncologist Bill Harwin, M.D., told her she
needed chemotherapy and radiation.
In addition to those treatment protocols and care from
the medical team, Michele says her church, friends and
pets helped in her recovery. “So much about healing is
knowing someone cares,” she says. “Cancer makes you
reprioritize your life, and helped me focus on what is
important. I now wake up saying, ‘Thank you, God, for
this beautiful day.’”
“When you have cancer, you wake up every morning
thinking about it,” Michele says. “Every ache and pain
and cough triggers the thought that the cancer has
spread. At my heart level I understood that I am more
than this disease, but it is hard to think past the cancer.”
Since finishing treatment, Michele must now have a
mammogram on the affected breast every six months
for the next two years. The first mammogram did not
show any cancer.
A nurse herself, Michele had faith in the treatment.
For five months, she had 16 rounds of chemotherapy,
followed by radiation. That protocol left her with side
effects, including fatigue, peripheral neuropathy in her
hands and balance issues. To address these and other
concerns, Michele was referred to the Survivorship
Training and Rehab (STAR) Program®.
The Regional Cancer Center is hosting a
special Celebration of Life luncheon in
honor of National Cancer Survivors Day®.
STAR is a state-of-the-art cancer rehabilitation
program. More than 60 medical providers work
collaboratively in the program to ensure that
cancer patients are screened for services they might
need. The STAR team consists of physicians, nurse
navigators, physical and occupational therapists, speech
therapists, social workers, registered dietitians, exercise
physiologists and other clinicians.
Once referred to the program, patients are screened
by the STAR navigator, Denise Pfeiffer. Denise reviews
patient histories and works with patients to determine
their physical, emotional and nutritional needs; and
individual limitations that interfere with their quality
of life. She works with physicians to refer patients to
the appropriate clinician—whether that is physical,
occupational or speech therapy; nutrition, counseling
services, support groups, social work or palliative
care services. The goal for cancer rehabilitation is to
minimize the effects of cancer and encourage survivors
to have the best possible quality of life.
11 a.m.-1:30 p.m., June 7
Crowne Plaza Fort Myers at Bell Tower Shops
13051 Bell Tower Drive
Fort Myers, FL 33907
Guest speaker Don S. Dizon, M.D., from
Massachusetts General Hospital will discuss
Survivorship.
This event is sponsored by Regional Cancer
Center—Lee Memorial Health System, 21st
Century Oncology, Florida Cancer Specialists,
Florida Gynecologic Oncology—and The
Landings Yacht, Golf and Tennis Club.
Space is limited; RSVP required to attend.
Send your name, phone number and the
number of guests (two guests maximum)
to Debbie.Manee@LeeMemorial.org or
call 239-343-9557.
Lee Memorial Health System
Foundation News & Events
Southwest Florida Wine & Food Fest Fulfills $10 Million
Children’s Hospital Pledge
Group Issues Additional $1.2 Million Matching Challenge through July 31
SWFL Children’s Charities, Inc. continued their giving ways by
presenting hospital leaders with the final installment of their $10
million pledge to help build the new Golisano Children’s Hospital
of Southwest Florida, then added a wonderful new twist–a $1.2
million matching challenge to the community.
much good for children
who depend upon the
lifesaving care provided
at our Children’s
Hospital.”
“SWFL Children’s Charities is pleased to issue this challenge to
everyone here in Southwest Florida,” said organization president Elaine Hawkins as the
check presentation was made. “From May 1 through July 31, we will match each and every
dollar donated to the Golisano Children’s Hospital capital campaign, up to a total of $1.2
million, with matching funds provided only through July 31.”
SWFL Children’s Charities sponsors the annual Southwest Florida Wine & Food Fest
each year, donating proceeds to local charities with the lion’s share directed to Golisano
Children’s Hospital. Donations are being used to support construction of the new state-ofthe-art, 128-bed Golisano Children’s Hospital on the campus of HealthPark Medical Center,
set to open in early 2017.
Act now to be sure
your donation is
matched. Gifts
eligible for matching
funds include those
made through cash,
written campaign
pledges payable
within five years,
children’s hospital
event sponsorships and
donations of stock.
Longtime Children’s Hospital supporter and Southwest Florida Wine and Food Fest Trustee
David Copham noted, “The matching program is a great way for those who want to help
local kids to step up, now, rather than later, to donate to the capital campaign.” He added,
“If you haven’t already made your donation, now is the time. Your gift will do twice as
Community groups, businesses, and individuals wishing to make a capital campaign gift to
help Golisano Children’s Hospital “Meet the Match” by July 31 are asked to visit
www.childrenshospitalgoal.org or contact Lee Memorial Health System Foundation
at 239-343-6950.
The match is in addition to the $10 million already gifted by SWFL Children’s Charities.
SWFL Children’s Charities recently completed their $10 million
pledge to Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida
and announced an additional new $1.2 million matching
challenge to the community. Funds were raised through
the successful Southwest Florida Wine and Food Fest. SWFL
Children’s Charities Trustees and Golisano Children’s Hospital
representatives taking part in the ceremony were, from
left: Steve & Ester Machiz, Elaine Hawkins, Vicki & Richard
Pitbladdo, Ute Rosinus, Debbie Toler, Fred Hawkins, Dorothy
Fitzgerald, Sharon MacDonald, Dave & Cheryl Copham, Art
Cherry, Jim Nathan and Sandy Stillwell.
Red Sox Events Raise More Than $1,050,000
for patients at Golisano Children’s Hospital of
Southwest Florida
Dinner Presenting Sponsor and CVS Health
– Diamond Dinner VIP Party Sponsor; with
additional major support provided by Florida
Radiology Consultants, PNC Healthcare,
PriceWaterhouseCoopers, Scanlon Auto Group
and WebTPA.
Lee Memorial Health System Foundation is pleased to announce
the 2015 Boston Red Sox Children’s Hospital Celebrity Classic Event
Series raised $1,050,947–a record total–directed to Golisano Children’s
Hospital of Southwest Florida’s Gift of a Lifetime capital campaign. The
total includes support provided by major sponsors Jack and Shelley Blais.
Once again, the Boston Red Sox generously provided outstanding resources and support to
make the events possible.
Scheduled for completion in early 2017, the new
Golisano Children’s Hospital building will include
128-beds for the care of local children along with
the latest medical equipment and a specialty
trained team of medical care providers.
This year’s event series included the auction of a brand new Viper automobile by Galeana
Family of Dealerships, a Boston Tee Party cocktail reception and celebrity golf tournament
featuring major Red Sox stars, both held at the magnificent Forest Country Club in south
Fort Myers; and the annual Diamond Dinner event held on the field at JetBlue Park in late
March.
For more information about the 2016 Boston Red
Sox Children’s Hospital Celebrity Event Series,
please contact Katy Martinez at 239-343-6076 or
BostonGolf@LeeMemorial.org.
Hundreds of local residents and die-hard Red Sox fans joined together with major
corporate sponsors to ensure the success of the events. Sponsors included Wells Fargo
Insurance Services – Tee Party Sponsor; Galeana Automotive Group – Diamond
Taking part in the Red Sox check
presentation ceremony at JetBlue
Park are (from left to right): Destiny
Haggett and her son, Chansen
Savakinus, 2015 Most Valuable
Patient (MVP); Katie Haas, Boston
Red Sox; Major Event Sponsor Jack
Blais, Manager John Farrell, Boston
Red Sox; Major Event Sponsor
Shelley Blais; Bill Harley, The Forest
Country Club; Auction Chairperson
Kristy Gudobba; Katy Martinez, Lee
Memorial Health System Foundation
and fan-favorite Wally.
July 18 Fishing Tournament Supports Lifesaving
Trauma Care
Accidents happen. When they do, Lee Memorial Health System’s Trauma Center, the only
trauma center on Florida’s Gulf Coast between Tampa and Miami, is ready to help.
The “catch and release” event offers a fun—and affordable—
way to help a great cause. Adults can take part for just $65 per
person while the cost for an angler age 12 and younger is only
$25. Come out and enjoy the post tournament barbecue for
only $8. Sponsorship opportunities also are available.
Now, you can help the Trauma Center by taking part in the 12th Annual David Lee
Root, Jr. Memorial Fishing Tournament on Saturday, July 18 at D & D Bait and Tackle in
Matlacha.
Along with the chance to compete for tournament prizes,
participants will enjoy great food and drink at the barbecue,
which follows the fishing fun. Those in attendance will also
have the chance to compete for drawing prizes, including gift
cards, fishing equipment, merchandise and more.
D & D Bait and Tackle owners Dave and Debbie Root generously organize and host the
tournament each year in memory of their son, David Root Jr. Proceeds benefit the Lee
Memorial Health System Trauma Center.
David Jr., then 18, never made it to the Trauma Center. Involved in a terrible car crash on
Pine Island, he was transferred to another hospital, where he died that night. One year
later, his brother, Dustin, then age 15, also suffered a traumatic injury in an automobile
accident. Airlifted to the Trauma Center at Lee Memorial, his life was saved by the
trauma team.
Visit www.LeeMemorial.org/root for more information or
contact Jason Powella at 239-343-6065 or
Jason.Powella@LeeMemorial.org.
From left to right: Bob
Mansfield, along with
Doug, Dave, Debbie and
Dustin Root, present
proceeds from the 2014
tournament. Helping
to make the check
presentation a success
(front row) is master
angler Brody Root.
This year’s event is set
for July 18.
LEE MEMORIAL HEALTH SYSTEM FOUNDATION BOARD OF TRUSTEES
OFFICERS
Charles K. Idelson,
Chairperson
James W. Orr, Jr., M.D., Vice
Chairperson
Joseph R. Catti,
Treasurer
Elaine Hawkins,
Secretary
www.LeeMemorial.org
TRUSTEES
John Blais
Amanda Cross
James Doyle, Jr.
Dorothy Fitzgerald
Joe Gammons
Jonathan Gopman
Jerry Hemmer
William N. Horowitz
Neil LeClair
Michael Mullins
Nick Naples
Michael B. Peceri
David M. Platt
Guy F. Rhoades
2
David Shellenbarger
Madeleine Taeni
Pablo Veintimilla
Stuart Zaikov
TRUSTEES EX-OFFICIO
Sanford N. Cohen, M.D.
Mary Ann George
Phil Fortin
Kathy Bridge-Liles
Jim Nathan
Sue Twining
EMERITUS COMMITTEE
John Gleeson
Frank Haskell
Garrett “Buzz” Reasoner
Alexander Roulston
Joseph D. Zaks
City Center Combines Rehabilitation and Wellness Services
When medical staff and physicians address an immediate
injury
or illness, this is often just the beginning of the healing process.
Many patients need the specialized care of rehabilitation
professionals to make a full recovery.
City Center is home to adult outpatient rehabilitation, children’s
rehabilitation and the Wellness Center – Fort Myers.
Moreno Ave
“Quality rehabilitation care, state-of-the-art equipment and a
convenient location close to work or home are generally the
most important qualities patients look for in an outpatient
rehabilitation center,” says Ray Cyr, system director,
Rehabilitation Services. “Our newest facility, Outpatient
Rehabilitation at City Center hits the mark on all of these.”
Carrell Rd
Patients who enter the center receive one-on-one sessions with
licensed therapy staff, designed to meet their individual needs.
Services include physical, occupational and speech therapy. At
times patients will benefit from all three services. “We can help
you recover from everything from basic sprains, strains and
surgery to more involved things like stroke, and other brain
and neurological disorders,” Ray says.
Colonial Blvd
to patients finishing formal therapy with ongoing needs for lifestyle changes and wellness,”
says Diana Rippl, director, Health and Wellness Integration. “Having these services together
eases the burden for patients and their families, and reduces the number of stops they have
to make to stay well.”
For pediatric rehabilitation, City Center is home to the newest location of the Children’s
Rehabilitation Center. Associated with Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida,
this location provides a convenient access point to families in need. It is the only location
north of the HealthPark campus and is aimed at helping children who need rehabilitative
services. The center boasts all new pediatric equipment, as well as its own entrance and
pediatric-designed waiting area, treatment rooms and gym.
Outpatient Rehabilitation
at City Center
3114 Cleveland Ave.
Fort Myers, FL 33901
Hours: 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.,
Monday-Friday
Scheduling: 239-424-1499
Clinic: 239-343-4960
Outpatient Rehabilitation at City Center is also home to specialty programs including:
• The Balance Clinic (the area’s premier
balance and vestibular rehabilitation
care)
• Driving rehabilitation and evaluation
• Wheelchair seating evaluations
• Functional capacity evaluations
Cleveland Ave.
Hanson St
• Phase 3 spine rehabilitation
• Concussion rehabilitation
• Vital Stim® swallowing therapy
• Speak Out!® voice therapy for
Parkinson’s care
Pediatric Rehabilitation
3114 Cleveland Ave.
Fort Myers, FL 33901
Hours: 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.,
Monday-Friday
Scheduling: 239-343-4970
Wellness Center: 239-343-4980
Hours: 5:15 a.m.-7 p.m., Monday-Friday
7 a.m.-1 p.m., Saturday, Closed Sunday
Another unique feature is the Wellness Center – Fort Myers, a full service medically-based
fitness center. “Integration with an expertly staffed fitness center offers a smooth transition
Maze Procedure Nearly Eliminates Stroke Risk for Patients
with Atrial Fibrillation
A common condition that affects millions of Americans,
atrial fibrillation—or an irregular heartbeat—can cause a
number of serious problems, including congestive heart
failure, leaky valves and high blood pressure in the lungs.
One of the biggest risks associated with atrial fibrillation is
stroke. Paul DiGiorgi, M.D., cardiothoracic surgeon, says
approximately one-third of patients with atrial fibrillation
will have a stroke. While blood thinners have been the
traditional route for treatment, a new minimally invasive
surgical option—the maze procedure—can reduce stroke
risk by 99 percent.
normal heart showing proper flow of
electrical impulses
abnormal heart showing erratic flow
(atrial fibrillation) of electrical impulses
electrical impulse
electrical impulse
“The maze procedure has been around for 30 years, but
was not commonly adopted because it required open-heart
surgery,” Dr. DiGiorgi says. “But, with improvements in
technology, we now can perform this procedure minimally
invasively and get the same efficacy as the original surgical
maze procedure, but without the trauma to the patient.”
To understand how the maze procedure essentially cures
atrial fibrillation, it helps to understand what happens
in the heart during atrial fibrillation. “Normally, the
smaller, back chamber of the heart—the atria—fills and
beats, sending blood to the main, larger ventricular
chamber of the heart,” Dr. DiGiorgi explains. “With atrial
fibrillation, the atria does not beat properly, but fibrillates
and decreases the filling of the main pumping chamber.
Because the blood does not pass through as smoothly and
quickly, it gets stagnant. Additionally, there is a pouch-like
appendage on the back of the heart, called the left atrial
appendage, which can harbor blood clots that can break off
and cause a stroke.”
The maze procedure involves the ablation (burning) of
nerves in specific lines on the back of the heart, which
forces the heart’s electrical impulses to follow a path that
SYSTEM PRESIDENT
Jim Nathan
JUNE 2015
Published as a community service by Lee Memorial
Health System, P. O. Box 2218, Fort Myers, FL 33902
HealthyNews@LeeMemorial.org
CHIEF STRATEGY
OFFICER
Kevin Newingham
prevents the erratic atrial fibrillation rhythm. Additionally,
the left atrial appendage is clipped, which further reduces
the risk of stroke.
If you have persistent atrial fibrillation, talk to your
cardiologist about all treatment options, including the
maze procedure.
“This is an exciting time for patients with persistent
atrial fibrillation—those patients who have had a stroke
and those who have not,” Dr. DiGiorgi says. “They have
an alternative to a lifetime of blood thinners, and it’s an
alternative that is safe, minimally invasive and nearly
eliminates their risk for stroke.”
Dr. DiGiorgi says the hospital stay after a maze procedure
is usually three days and the recovery is one to two
weeks. HealthPark Medical Center is the only hospital in
Southwest Florida performing the maze procedure.
EDITORIAL
Jennifer Foote
Kali Lynch
Lynn Melvin
JL Watson
DESIGN
Kevin Owen
LEE MEMORIAL HEALTH SYSTEM BOARD OF DIRECTORS
District 1
District 2
District 3
Stephen R. Brown, M.D.
Donna Clarke
Sanford Cohen, M.D.
Therese Everly
Nancy M. McGovern, RN, MSN David F. Collins
3
Paul DiGiorgi, M.D.
Cardiothoracic Surgery
Lee Physician Group
9981 S. HealthPark Drive
Suite 120
Fort Myers, FL 33908
239-343-6341
www.tinyurl.com/DrDiGiorgi
District 4
Chris Hansen
Diane Champion
District 5
Jessica Carter
Stephanie L. Meyer, BSN, RN
Golisano Children’s Hospital
of Southwest Florida
Pediatric Cardiologist Treats
Adult at Our Port Charlotte
Location
Her heart is in the right place. But for Lora Wolff, part
of the organ that pumps blood through her body is in
the wrong position. Lora, 41, was born with congenitally
corrected transposition of the great arteries (CCTGA).
The condition results in the ventricles, the large pumping
chamber of the heart, in a reverse position. The condition
affects .5-1 percent of all babies born with a heart defect.
In 1974, when Lora was born, doctors were not sure how
to treat her. Because physicians did not have a plan to
permanently treat her, the solution was a pacemaker that
was supposed to be temporary. She was first hooked to
an external pacemaker, and then received a temporary
internal pacemaker at the age of 4. She had that pacemaker
until the age of 19, when it was replaced by another one.
She still lives with a pacemaker.
“Patients with corrected transposition will commonly do
well as children and teenagers, but sometimes can go into
failure as adults,” says pediatric cardiologist Eric Eason,
D.O. “CCTGA can produce fatigue and arrhythmias,
among other symptoms.”
As a child, Lora’s prognosis was not good. Doctors made
no promises to her parents on her life expectancy.
“The prognosis for these
patients varies based on the
severity of other defects within
the heart, the success of prior
procedures and development
of other complications,” Dr.
Eason says. “Since the care
for infants and children
has improved greatly, prognosis for adults with CHD
(congenital heart defect) is improving dramatically
compared to the 1970s. Currently, there are more adults
living with congenital heart disease than there are
children.”
As a young adult, Lora, who lives in Punta Gorda, went
through a series of physicians and landed with pediatric
cardiologist Sam Edwards, M.D., who treated her condition
for several years before referring her to physicians in
Miami. “Patients who have had repairs of their congenital
heart disease require lifelong follow up with specialists
who have specific training in this type of heart disease,”
Dr. Eason says. “Thus, it takes a coordinated, teamwork
approach of numerous specialists, both pediatric and adult,
to keep adult congenital heart disease patients healthy.”
The problem for Lora was that so few children had
her condition that by the time she was grown, adult
cardiologists did not know how to treat a pediatric heart
condition, and she had outlived the expectations for most
pediatric cardiologists, so most did not have a successful
treatment plan in place, either.
Lora sought ongoing treatment at University of Miami,
until Dr. Eason arrived at Golisano Children’s Hospital of
Southwest Florida in 2013. After enduring more than 30
lifetime surgeries and the implantation of a defibrillator in
2011, Lora is excited to finally find a cardiologist close to
home who understands and can treat her condition. She
still makes trips to Miami twice each year because she may
be a candidate for a heart transplant in the future.
Lora Wolff
Even though Lora is one of the
oldest patients in Dr. Eason’s
pediatric practice, the fit is just
right. “He’s not just looking at
me as just another pediatric
patient,” she says.
Even though Lora is one of the oldest patients in Dr.
Eason’s pediatric practice, the fit is just right. “He’s not just
looking at me as just another pediatric patient,” she says.
“He’s checking my heart and working on a treatment plan
that is just right for me as an older adult with CCTGA.”
Lora has already beaten tremendous odds. She has lived
long enough to give birth to four children and lives a
normal life. Most people who meet her have no idea her
heart is unique. “My heart surgery scar is not noticeable,”
she says. “My pacemaker scar is really ugly, so on the
occasion when someone notices that, I tell them what it is.
More than anything, I’m glad I met my lifetime goal—to
have children and to live long enough that they would
remember me.”
At ages 14-19, her children have watched their mother
remain healthy, even as she outlived her expected mortality
rate. “My goal now is to watch them all graduate,” she says.
Dr. Eason sees a bright future for Lora and other patients
like her. “Outcomes vary by the severity of the congenital
defect,” he says. “The more severe forms sometimes will
require heart transplantation. However, with close followup and medical management, adults can enjoy productive
lives, much like Lora.”
“Lora represents the population of kids who have benefited
from improved pediatric care, but now represent special
challenges as they move into adulthood,” Dr. Eason says.
“Golisano Children’s Hospital, local adult cardiologists, and
the Heart and Vascular Institute are collaborating to ensure
the framework is in place to take care of this
special population.”
Eric Eason, D.O.
Pediatric Cardiology
Golisano Children’s Hospital of
Southwest Florida
16281 Bass Road
Suite 304
Fort Myers, FL 33908
239-343-7490
www.tinyurl.com/DrEason
New Pediatric
Rehabilitation
Location Opens in
Fort Myers
Welcome to The “Y” in Naples
Lee Memorial Health System has partnered with the Greater Naples YMCA to bring
expanded services to Collier County. The YMCA, located at Airport Pulling and Pine Ridge
roads, will soon offer:
• Physical therapy
• Speech therapy
• Occupational therapy
• Orthopedic sports medicine
Through the agreement, staff from Lee Memorial Health System will work with patients,
close to home. “This is a great partnership because patients who live in and near Naples will
be able to get care without making a longer drive,” says Lisa Edwards, Lee Memorial Health
System rehabilitation manager. “Our goal is to bring care to people where they work and live.”
Programs will be available this fall.
www.LeeMemorial.org
4
The newest Golisano Children’s Hospital
of Southwest
Florida
rehabilitation
facility is now
open at City
Center, 3114
Cleveland Ave.,
Fort Myers, FL
33901.
Appointments:
239-343-4970.
MR CLEAN Cleans Up Stroke
Mr. Clean is a popular moniker for a fictional cleaning character, but stroke specialists rely
on their own version of the name to treat patients.
The MR CLEAN study shows that the quicker patients get interventional care, the better
the potential outcome. “We aim to treat most patients within 30 minutes after hospital
arrival, but that’s not always possible, based on where they are and when they make the call
to 911,” Dr. Razack says. “If you cannot get to a primary stroke center within 15 minutes,
you need to see an endovascular specialist.”
The Multicenter Randomized Clinical Trial of Endovascular Treatment for Acute Ischemic
Stroke in the Netherlands (MR CLEAN) found that patients who received advanced care
consisting of directly working within the brain’s blood vessels within six hours of the onset
of symptoms are more likely to recover from a stroke.
Lee Memorial Hospital and Cape Coral Hospital are primary stroke centers, making them
a first line of defense for patients who live near these locations. Patients at highest risk or
those who sustain a stroke may be transported to a primary location first, then relocated to
Gulf Coast Medical Center for advanced treatment if physicians deem it necessary.
“This study is important because it reinforces our role as a comprehensive stroke center,”
says neurointerventional radiologist Nasser Razack, M.D. Gulf Coast Medical Center is the
only comprehensive stroke center in Southwest Florida and is equipped to treat patients in
this manner.
“These tiers of treatment give patients the best possible care,” Dr. Razack says. “If someone
is stable, he or she will stay where treatment started. If the stroke is advanced or if time
has lapsed between the onset of the stroke and treatment time, we are prepared to start the
necessary protocols and transfer the patient to Gulf Coast Medical Center in order to get
the best outcome possible for each person.”
The MR CLEAN trial demonstrates a major milestone in stoke treatment, the likes of which
have not been seen since 1995. “There has been no greater impact on stroke in the last 20
years than this trial,” Dr. Razack says. “Patients also have a tremendous impact on their
recovery by seeking treatment as soon as signs and symptoms of a stroke appear. Don’t wait
to figure out if someone is having a stroke. When in doubt, call 911.”
The Multicenter
Randomized Clinical
Trial ofEndovascular
Treatment for Acute
Ischemic Stroke in the
Netherlands
Gray Matters
Time wasted is brain wasted for stroke patients. If
you suspect someone is having a stroke, check the
following FAST signs:
(MR CLEAN) found that
Stroke symptoms:
Face—Does one side of the face droop?
Arms—Is one arm weak or numb?
Speech—Is speech slurred?
Time—Time is critical. Call 911. Don’t drive.
patients who received advanced
care consisting of directly working
within the brain’s blood vessels
within six hours of the onset of
symptoms are more likely to
recover from a stroke.
Nasser Razack, M.D.
Neuronterventional Radiology
Lee Physician Group
13685 Doctor’s Way
Suite 350
Fort Myers, FL 33912
239-425-4893
www.tinyurl.com/DrRazack
“This is the only knee that is
actually customized to the
patient’s anatomy,” explains
George Markovich, M.D.
A Perfect Fit: The 3-D Knee
Knee replacements often are the last resort for patients dealing with pain caused
by osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. A common surgery, knee replacements
now have a more customizable option thanks to 3-D technology and
manufacturing techniques.
“This is the only knee that is actually customized to the patient’s anatomy,” explains
George Markovich, M.D., orthopedic surgeon. “Using a digital CT scan and 3-D
models, we create a perfectly matched implant.”
Dr. Markovich says the old, off-the-shelf joint implants were limited in sizes because
they were most often molded using anatomical information from men. “Some of the
sizes were very clunky and large in certain diameters, so they didn’t match women
as well,” he says. “And women make up about 65 percent of knee replacement
surgeries, so it is nice to have an option to recreate the size, shape and pattern of the
individuals’ joint.”
The benefits of this individualized care include quicker surgery, less blood loss, less
time in the hospital and faster recovery overall. “By matching each patient’s particular
anatomy, we do not have to manipulate the bone to accept the implant—it is designed
to fit the bone,” Dr. Markovich says. “With the 3-D knee, the proper alignment and fit
is determined more accurately, which is especially important in patients with severe
deformities from previous trauma or surgeries. This leads to more favorable outcomes.
Using this technology, the ultimate goal is a knee replacement that works better and
lasts longer.”
George Markovich, M.D.
Institute for Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine
8350 Riverwalk Park Blvd.
Suite 1
Fort Myers, FL 33919
239-482-5399
To view a video on 3-D knee replacement surgeries,
go to www.tinyurl.com/3DKneeFit
5
Abdominal Pain Not Usually
Associated with Cancer
Stomach pain can be sharp and last an extended period of
time, but the larger pain is doing nothing about it.
advice: Consume 4-6 glasses of water each day, exercise,
take fiber and include a probiotic like Align.
Many people refuse to visit a physician for abdominal
pain because they fear they may have cancer. “Most
people don’t realize that the odds are way in their favor
that they do not have cancer,” says general surgeon
Stephen Moenning, M.D. Dr. Moenning treats patients
who suffer from abdominal issues, from appendicitis to
inflammatory bowel disease.
“Of course, different conditions require different levels of
treatment,” Dr. Moenning says. “Gallbladder dysfunction
can include gallstones, blockage. In serious cases, we have
to operate to remove the gallbladder. This offers relief and
patients recover, usually without complications.”
Abdominal conditions can be inherited—like colitis
(inflammation of the colon)—or can come on suddenly,
as often happens with appendicitis (inflammation of the
appendix). Appendicitis can affect people of all ages,
including young children. Other conditions, including
gallbladder dysfunction, are more common in older
adults.
“When a patient comes to see me, I examine all aspects
of the abdomen,” Dr. Moenning says. “I learn about
family history, conduct a physical exam and explore
diagnostic challenges. As a practitioner, abdominal pain
is interesting because we get back a good history on each
patient. It’s detective work.”
Common abdominal disorder symptoms include:
•Bleeding
•Constipation
•Fever
•Cramping
•Diarrhea
The best treatment is to avoid developing painful
abdominal issues. “One of the best things anyone can do
is to get a colonoscopy at age 50, or earlier if there is a
family history of colitis of colon cancer,” Dr. Moenning
says. “Colon cancer is the silent killer because it doesn’t
present with symptoms until it’s too late. Don’t die of
embarrassment.”
Stephen Moenning, M.D.
General Surgery
Lee Physician Group
708 Del Prado Blvd.
Suite 1
Cape Coral, FL 33904
239-424-2755
www.tinyurl.com/DrMoenning
Irritable bowel syndrome is common, especially in
patients older than age 50. Dr. Moenning starts with basic
Gait Mapping System Directs Individualized Care
Following a stroke, traumatic injury or orthopedic procedure, many patients may require
additional, specialized care and training, and close medical supervision. The Rehabilitation
Hospital at Lee Memorial Hospital provides the comprehensive, individualized care these
patients need on their road to recovery. Part of the care may involve the use of a gait
mapping system, which provides objective information on a person’s walking pattern.
Using a sensored walkway and a computer program, physical therapists can analyze
and measure a variety of gait patterns, including footfall, stance, step length and speed.
“Using this technology, we show our patients their specific patterns and direct therapies
to address their issues,” explains Joe Ryan, DPT, manager of rehabilitation services at the
Rehabilitation Hospital. “Also, because it is so quick and easy to use, we can periodically
test the patients in order to show them how they are progressing in therapy. We have found
that it really keeps the patients motivated and engaged in their recovery because they can
see objective progress.”
By pinpointing specific issues, Joe says physical therapists can set goals for patients,
like increasing stance percentage or extending step length. “One of the most important
elements we look at is speed,” Joe says. “A patient who walks 0.8 or 0.9 meters/second is a
lot more likely to be able to go out and engage in the community—go grocery shopping,
out to dinner, the movies, etc.—than someone who shuffles or walks more slowly.”
The patient who needs a walker, cane or hands-on assistance from a physical therapist is
still able to gain valuable information from the system because the computer program can
be directed to erase the therapists’ foot prints or the imprint of the assistive device.
The goal of all therapies and treatment at the Rehabilitation Hospital is to help patients
regain their basic, daily functions and get them back to their lives. “It is not enough to send
patients home just surviving,” Joe says. “We want our patients to have a good quality of
life and to be able to participate in their lives. Mobility is key to that and the gait mapping
system helps us direct treatment to each patient’s goals.”
To view a video on the Rehabilitation Hospital,
go to www.tinyurl.com/GoodGait
Shape Up Your Summer with Sizzling Savings
Take advantage of the Wellness Centers
Super Summer Special!
3 months for $150
Come by a location near you to receive a free 1-week pass.
Wellness Center – Cape Coral offers swim lessons for all ages.
Call 239-424-3226 for information.
Wellness Center – Cape Coral
609 SE 13th Court
Cape Coral, FL 33990
239-424-3220
www.LeeMemorial.org
Feel
G
R
E
AT
Th
is sum
mer!
Wellness Center – Fort Myers
3114 Cleveland Ave.
Fort Myers, FL 33901
239-343-4980
6
Routine Exams
Help Men Stay
Healthy
Men often provide great care for their families, but fail to
address an issue that should be at the forefront of their
agenda: their health.
“Men tend to avoid seeing health care providers unless
they sense great risk or have an active problem,” says family
practice physician and director, Lee Memorial Health
System/Florida State University Family Medicine Residency
Program Gary Goforth, M.D. “However, many serious
conditions such as colon cancer, depression, abdominal
aortic aneurysm, diabetes and hypertension can be
detected earlier to avoid major complications.”
“Our goal is to get
men to pay attention
to their health,”
Dr. Goforth says.
Dr. Goforth focuses on basic care and his exams include:
• Blood pressure check
• Weight assessment
• Prostate and testicle
exam
• Skin check (melanoma,
basal cell, squamous cell
carcinomas)
“I try to emphasize the need for additional testing
to include colonoscopy, abdominal aortic aneurysm
ultrasound scans, lipid and diabetes screening,” Dr. Goforth
says. “I also focus on family history and the importance
of diligent screening for family history conditions (heart
disease, cancer). I strongly encourage smoking cessation
for all smokers; weight loss and exercise for patients
with a body mass index (BMI) over 25. I also encourage
administration of the recommended adult vaccines,
includingTdap, Pneumococcal (Prevnar at age 65, then
Pneumovax one year later), Zostavax (for preventing
shingles after age 50) and other vaccines for certain
conditions.”
Patients who do not have regular exams and screenings
could be at-risk for coronary heart disease, stroke and
peripheral vascular disease; or death from an aortic
aneurysm rupture not detected by a screening ultrasound
exam.
Dr. Goforth recommends:
• Colonoscopy every 10 years beginning at age 50 (every
3-5 years if polyps are present)
• Abdominal aortic aneurysm screening for men aged
65-75 years old if prior smoking history
“Our goal is to get men to pay attention to their health,”
Dr. Goforth says. “The best time to visit your primary care
physician is before a problem exists. That way we have a
historical record of your health and are in a better position
to help with any problems that may arise.”
Gary Goforth, M.D.
Family Medicine
Lee Physician Group
2780 Cleveland Ave.
Suite 709
Fort Myers, FL 33901
239-343-3831
www.tinyurl.com/DrGoforth
• Lipid screening in men age 35 and older
• Blood pressure screening in adults beginning at age 18
• HIV screening for all adolescents and adults
• Depression screening for adults age 18 and older when
staff-assisted depression care supports are in place
• Obesity screening and management for all adults
• Diabetes screening for adults with obesity or sustained
blood pressure higher than 135/80
An Exciting Summer for the Family Medicine Residency
Program
From an application pool of more than 1,500 medical school graduates, Lee Memorial
Health System and The Florida State University College of Medicine Family Medicine
Residency Program are proud to welcome six new first-year residents, including:
Also in July, the following physicians will be promoted to third-year residents:
• Shane Drahos, M.D., West Palm Beach, Fla. • Greg Stepp, M.D., Deland, Fla.
• Tyler Hendricks, M.D., Jacksonville, Fla.
• Ashley Wallace, M.D., Pittsburgh, Pa.
• Alim Karim, M.D., Ontario, Canada
• Clinton Walls, M.D., Cape Coral, Fla.
• Olevia Metry, M.D.
• Lee Coghill, M.D.
• Elizabeth Midney, M.D.
• Alyson Lewis, M.D.
• Carl Nyberg, M.D.
• Roy Klossner, M.D.
• Sherry Farag, M.D.
• Chelsey Scheiner, M.D.
• Lucia Huffman, M.D.
• James Toldi, D.O.
The summer also brings the first resident to graduate from the program—Kristin Miller, M.D.
Under the guidance of physicians and faculty, medical school graduates are required to
complete residency training in their chosen specialty in order to become independent,
practicing physicians. The Family Medicine Residency Program prepares these new
physicians with a 36-month curriculum that includes rotations in:
In July, the inaugural group of residents who started the program in 2014 will advance as
second-year residents. This group includes:
• Mohammad Ayaz Sadat, M.D.
• Jack Arnold, M.D.
• Adult medicine
• General surgery
• Practice management
• Behavioral medicine
•Ophthalmology
• Community medicine
•Pediatrics
• Ear, nose and throat
•Geriatrics
• Obstetrics and
gynecology
•Urology
• Sports medicine
•Orthopedics
•Neurology
• Critical care
•Cardiology
• Emergency medicine
Most physicians set up practice near the location where they complete their residency
training. So, Lee Memorial Health System hopes the residency program will play a
significant role in meeting the primary care needs of Lee County and Southwest Florida.
The system hopes to retain more than 50 percent of these talented residency graduates here
in our community.
Family Medicine Residency Program
2780 Cleveland Ave.
Suite 709
Fort Myers, FL 33901
239-343-3831
Family Medicine physicians are accepting new
patients of all ages.
7
The Need for Blood is Real
Sylvie Luders lives with sickle cell disease—an inherited disorder that affects the shape
of red blood cells. The condition also affects the immune system and can lead to serious
infections, chronic anemia and damage to vital organs. For six years, Sylvie has required
regular blood transfusions to decrease the risk of stroke.
Sylvie is just one patient who relies on Lee Memorial Health System having an adequate
supply of blood.
“The need is constant,” says Susie Nystrom, director, Blood Center Services. “The health
system transfuses about 426 units of blood each week. Surgeries—like trauma, orthopedic,
gynecologic or open-heart surgeries—are the main reason patients need blood. But,
hematology/oncology patients—both adult and pediatric—also need red blood cells
and platelets.”
“In 2009, when I was around 17, I started having symptoms of a stroke,” Sylvie says. “One
whole side of my body would go numb—my face, hands, arms, legs. MRIs and tests found
that the sickle cell disease caused blockages in the main arteries to my brain. My doctor
[Emad Salman, M.D., pediatric hematologist/oncologist] said I would need regular blood
transfusions to prevent a stroke.”
Because the health system also is home to the regional Level II Trauma Center, which
serves Lee, Collier, Charlotte, Hendry and Glades counties, the need for blood can
fluctuate. Susie says there have been trauma patients—motorcycle or car accident victims—
who need hundreds of units of blood to save their lives.
In the beginning, Sylvie got a transfusion every three weeks. The frequency later changed
to every four weeks, and now stands at every five weeks. In addition to decreasing the
occurrence of life-threatening blood clots, the transfusions assist the blood’s oxygencarrying capacity and reduce the percentage of red blood cells that carry the sickle gene.
“There is no substitute for human blood,” says Nancy Hendrick, Blood Center community
relations coordinator. “We rely on our community to help ensure we have a safe and
adequate supply of blood to care for our patients. We need all blood types, but O negative
is so important because it is universal, meaning it can be transfused to almost any patient
in need.”
Sylvie needs five units of blood every five weeks for her exchange transfusion, which
involves the removal of her blood along with the transfusion of new blood.
“I have one arm with blood going out and the other arm with new blood coming in,”
she says. “I have gotten used to the process and I know it’s helping me stay as healthy
as possible.”
From the unexpected motor vehicle crash to the standing transfusion appointment, the
need for blood is real.
The Lee Memorial Health System Blood Centers are hosting blood drives in the hospitals:
• 10 a.m.-5 p.m., June 9-10 and 7 a.m.-4 p.m., June 11,
HealthPark Medical Center Atrium
“We rely on our
community to help
ensure we have a safe
and adequate supply
of blood to care for
our patients.”
• 10 a.m.-5 p.m., June 29-30 and 7 a.m.-4 p.m., July 1,
Gulf Coast Medical Center Main Entrance
• 10 a.m.-5 p.m., July 14-15 and 7 a.m.-4 p.m., July 16,
Cape Coral Hospital Auxiliary Conference Room
• 10 a.m.-5 p.m., July 29-30 and 7 a.m.-4 p.m., July 31,
Lee Memorial Hospital Auditorium
Your
donations stay
in Lee County!
Or, donate anytime at the Blood Center nearest you.
Call 239-343-2333 or go to www.tinyurl.com/BloodCenters.
Donors must:
• Feel well and healthy
on the day of donation
• Be a minimum of 16 years old
• Weigh at least 115 pounds
Convenient Care a Good Option for Minor Injuries, Illnesses
For patients who do not have a primary care physician or who experience illness or injury
on a weekend, in the evening or on a holiday, a trip to the local emergency department
might seem like the only choice. Sometimes it is, especially when the injury is lifethreatening.
Conditions treated at Convenient
Care include:
• Coughs, colds, sore throats and
flu symptoms
However, for many patients, Convenient Care is a better option. “It can be difficult to
make a decision, especially when someone needs medical care immediately,” says family
physician Nicole Higgs-Doughty, M.D. “That’s when you need to assess how serious the
injury or condition is, then head to the appropriate destination.”
• Ear pain
• Eye redness, pain or irritation
(Not including any change in
vision)
Sudden accidents, acute pain and trauma usually warrant a trip to the emergency
department, and may require an ambulance for transportation. “We do not recommend
driving if someone is in a life-threatening situation,” Dr. Higgs-Doughty says. “Dial 911 if
someone is in obvious distress and the survival of that person is at stake. Paramedics who
arrive first on the scene are trained to help stabilize critical patients and are equipped to
help more than family members and friends.”
• Fever (Not associated with mental
status changes or lethargy)
• Minor breathing difficulty such
as asthma complications (Not
congestive heart failure)
• Vomiting, diarrhea and mild dehydration
(Not requiring IV fluids)
The emergency department is the right choice for the following conditions:
• Chest pain, pressure or discomfort and
symptoms of a heart attack (arm, neck,
jaw or back pain; dizziness; nausea;
sweating; difficulty breathing and/or
fatigue, particularly in women)
• Severe difficulty with breathing and/or
abdominal pain
• Stroke symptoms (loss of vision, sudden
numbness, weakness, slurred speech or
confusion)
• Any injury where a bone is protruding
• Head trauma (loss of consciousness,
nausea, vomiting, mental status changes)
•Seizures
• Serious neck or back injuries (related to
car accidents, falls from ≥ 10 feet)
• Urinary tract infections
• Sexually transmitted diseases and minor
female vaginal complaints
• Gunshot wounds and deep knife wounds
• Uncontrollable bleeding
• Minor burns
• Sprains and strains
• Minor broken bones without overlying
open wounds or bones protruding
• Mild to moderate back pain
• Animal bites
• Skin tears, rashes, irritations or infections
• Fever in babies younger than 3 months of
age
“Most walk-in consumers are seen for routine medical issues, but we also treat worker’s
compensation injuries,” Dr. Higgs-Doughty says. “Many consumers are referred to us
when primary care providers are overbooked and have no more available same-day
appointments. At Convenient Care our goal is to give quality, safe, patient-centered care in
a timely fashion.”
• Pregnancy related issues
•Poisoning
• Suicidal or homicidal feelings and panic
attacks
Nicole Higgs-Doughty, M.D.
Lee Physician Group
Convenient Care—Page Field
4771 S. Cleveland Ave.
Fort Myers, FL 33907
239-343-9800
www.tinyurl.com/DrHiggsDoughty
Other injuries or conditions are less serious and are better served by Convenient Care. Lee
Memorial Health System has four locations and most are open 7 a.m.-7 p.m., seven days
a week. “We try to make it easy for people to access our locations so they can get the care
they need and get back to their activities without a huge time commitment,” Dr. HiggsDoughty says. “We usually treat patients in order of their arrival so no one has to wait for
hours to see a medical practitioner.”
www.LeeMemorial.org
• Allergic reactions (Not life-threatening)
See all 3
Convenient
Care locatio
ns
on pa
ge 11.
To view a video on Convenient Care,
go to www.tinyurl.com/ConvenientDr
8
Common Causes of Headache
Headaches are a common occurrence for many adults. In fact, according to the Migraine
Research Foundation, someone goes to the emergency department with a headache or
migraine every 10 seconds. Family medicine physician Gilberto Riveron, M.D., says there
are a variety of causes of headaches, including emotional, environmental, physical and
edible factors.
Emotional
“Stress is the most common cause of headaches,” Dr. Riveron says. “The chemical and
physical changes caused by stress—like clenching your teeth—make you susceptible to
tension headaches and migraines.”
Making a conscious effort to relax and control how you to react to stress can help decrease
the frequency of these types of headaches.
Environmental
• Tyramines in aged cheeses, wine, beer and processed meats
There are a number of environmental factors that can cause headaches, including:
• Bright lights, including the sun’s glare
• Weather—sudden or drastic changes in
temperature or barometric pressure
• Sulphites in wine and dried fruits
• Strong scents—perfumes, colognes or
chemicals, like paint or gas
• Smoking and second-hand smoke contain
nicotine which causes blood vessels in the
brain to narrow
• MSG and nitrites found in cured meats
• Salicylates in vinegar and certain teas and fruits
“Being dehydrated or skipping meals also can trigger headaches,” he says. “Caffeine
can either help a headache—some headache medications actually contain caffeine—or
cause one—if you don’t drink your regular cup of coffee, you may experience a nagging
headache.”
Physical
“Poor posture, especially from sitting at a desk all day, can take a toll on your head and
neck,” Dr. Riveron says. “To avoid tension headaches, be sure your chair has good lower
back support and your monitor is at eye level—not too high or too low. Staring at a screen
all day can also strain your eyes and result in a headache, so get up from the computer at
least every hour. Also, when looking at your cell phone, hold it upright because looking
down at it strains your spine and neck. ”
Just as there are a variety of factors that cause headaches, there also are a many different
types of headaches. Get help immediately if you experience a sudden, intense headache
accompanied by fever, weakness, numbness, difficulty speaking and confusion. Or, if you
experience a new onset or type of headache that does not improve with standard home
remedies, call your doctor and schedule an appointment.
Gilberto Riveron, M.D.
Family Medicine
Lee Physician Group
1682 NE Pine Island Road
Cape Coral, FL 33909
239-424-1660
www.tinyurl.com/DrRiveron
Other physical factors that cause headaches include:
• Hair accessories—tight braids, up-dos,
ponytails and hats can squeeze and pull
your scalp and cause a tension headache
• Exercise can cause headaches for those
who suffer migraines
Edible
Dr. Riveron says that foods that are aged, smoked, dried or pickled contain known
headache triggers, including:
AgePlay Provides Interactive Experience
on Challenges of Aging
TM
Aging is inevitable and with time comes new physical challenges. Tasks that once seemed
easy can become difficult or nearly impossible.
of 10 children, a military veteran,
a physician, an athlete or a CEO
of a big company. “That’s not
necessarily what we see,” Teresa
says. “Instead, we just see an ‘old
person.’ The better we understand
the challenges some seniors may
experience, the better service we
can provide to them.”
“With so many generational differences and so few intergenerational programs, today’s
young people tend to believe much of the ageism that is taught to them by other
people,” says Teresa Frank-Fahrner, Older Adult Services program coordinator. “Even
our own seniors help to promote one of the most common myths about aging, which is
that everyone will have significant memory loss as they get older. This is just not true.
Significant memory loss is not a normal part of aging, but when we hear people say, ‘I must
be having a senior moment,’ this portrays that all people who get old lose their memory.”
Aging Sensitivity Experience
AgePlay puts users through a number of experiences, from vision changes caused by
glaucoma, macular degeneration, cataracts, stroke and yellowing of the lens; hearing loss;
loss of sensation in fingers and hands and motor skills; and teaches participants how to
best communicate and assist people with these losses. “We also discuss various causes
of memory loss and confusion in memory to make sure that people understand that
some of the causes of memory loss are treatable,” Teresa says. “We discuss depression
and how common this is in our older generation; and why older people tend to avoid
mentioning this to their family or physician, and what some of the treatment options are
for depression.”
Teresa works to combat these stereotypes, and one of the tools in her arsenal is AgePlayTM,
a hands-on simulation training that allows people to experience some of the physical
challenges people may have when they get older. The goal of the aging sensitivity
experience is to enhance understanding and increase empathy for older people.
“Clearing up the myths of aging is
critical to maintaining the dignity
and respect we have for our senior
citizens,” Teresa says. “The value
of a person’s life is sometimes
determined by what we see. When
we see an older person with
wrinkles, who do we see?”
AgePlay is available to local businesses and organizations who want their staff or employees
to gain a better understanding of the aging experience. “This training is not about the
negative side of aging,” Teresa says. “It is about increasing empathy for our most precious
resource, our senior citizens.”
Many people will not consider the
life experience the older person may
have had, such as being the mother
For more information on pricing or to schedule this valuable training for your business,
please call 239-424-3298.
Skin Cancer Screenings Can Save Lives
There are three major types of skin cancer—basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma
and melanoma. Both basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma develop on areas
of the body that are exposed to the sun, like the face, scalp, ears, arms, chest, hands and
legs. Melanoma, on the other hand, can develop anywhere on the body in normal skin or
in existing moles that become cancerous.
What to expect at the skin
cancer screening?
The skin cancer screening is a
visual inspection of your skin
by a medical professional. He
or she will look at your moles,
freckles and other marks. No
blood is drawn and nothing is
cut or removed at the time of
the screening. If a suspicious
mark is found, you will need to
see a dermatologist for a more
thorough exam.
It is important to practice monthly head-to-toe self-examinations so you are aware of new
or changing moles, spots or lesions. If you see anything suspicious, see your doctor. It also
helps to have annual screenings performed by a dermatologist.
Skin cancer, if detected and treated early, has an almost 100 percent five-year survival rate.
Join SHARE Club this month for a free cancer screening provided by Riverchase
Dermatology, 8-11 a.m., June 24 at the Bonita Springs YMCA, 27200 Kent Road. This
screening is for adults age 18 and older. Appointments are required; call 239-221-7560.
9
P H Y S I C I A N
Adult Physicians
Allergy/Immunology
Elvin Mendez, M.D.
26.3410 Tamiami Trail, Ste 1
Port Charlotte, FL 33952
941-255-3722
Gaston Turnier, M.D.
Lee Ann Dunnington, ARNP
11.4761 S. Cleveland Ave., Ste. 3
Fort Myers, FL 33907
239-343-9722
12.1265 Creekside Pkwy.
Ste. 200, Naples, FL 34108
239-254-2470
Cardiology
James A. Conrad, M.D.
Robert M. Grohowski, M.D.
Subhash Kshetrapal, M.D.
Steven T. Lee, M.D.
Brian C. Taschner, M.D.
Nicole Charles, ARNP
Kristen Brist, ARNP
Virginia Pearson, ARNP
2. 16261 Bass Road, Ste. 300
Fort Myers, FL 33908
239-343-6410
Robert Cross, M.D.
Catherine Law, M.D.
Kiran Mangalpally, M.D.
4. 1682 NE Pine Island Road
Cape Coral, FL 33909
239-424-1660
Michael Bolooki, M.D.
Lynne Einbinder, M.D.
Jihad Khalil, M.D.
Mikhailia Lake, M.D.
John R. Macaluso, M.D.
Jesus Mendiolaza, M.D.
Jian Xin Qin, M.D.
Barbara Asorian, ARNP
7. 8960 Colonial Center Dr., Ste 302
Fort Myers, FL 33905
239-343-9700
Brian K. Arcement, M.D.
James F. Butler, D.O.
Vladimir Ilic, M.D.
Murali M. Muppala, M.D.
Jennifer Carter, ARNP
Courtney Chumbley, ARNP
Vicki Hayes, ARNP
9. 14051 Metropolis Ave.
Fort Myers, FL 33912
239-343-9270
Anita Arnold, M.D.
M. Erick Burton, M.D.
Richard A. Chazal, M.D.
Michael A. Corbellini, D.O.
Michael D. Danzig, M.D.
Roshan Vatthyam, M.D.
Denise Bounds, PA-C
Karen Booth, ARNP
3. 3501 Health Center Blvd.
Ste. 2330
Bonita Springs, FL 34135
239-495-4375
10. 9800 S. HealthPark Dr.,Ste.320
Fort Myers, FL 33908
239-343-6350
Cardiothoracic Surgery
Randall Buss, M.D.
George Comas, M.D.
Paul DiGiorgi, M.D.
Brian Hummel, M.D.
Joseph Deily, PA-C
Michael DePalma, PA-C
Scott Hooper, PA-C
Megan Mukavetz, PA-C
10.9981 S. HealthPark Dr., Ste. 120
Fort Myers, FL 33908
239-343-6341
Community Health Centers
Jeannie Arana, M.D.
Carrie Gittings, M.D.
Luzan Phillpotts, D.O.
Virginia Bihari, ARNP
Julieann Chapman, ARNP
Petra Debolt, ARNP
Mary Dion, ARNP
Janet Loo, ARNP
Frances Munroe, ARNP
Angela Sterious, ARNP
13.1435 SE 8th Terrace, Ste E
Cape Coral, FL 33990
239-424-2757
19.3511 Dr. Martin Luther King Blvd.
Fort Myers, FL 33916
239-343-4910
20.13279 N. Cleveland Ave.
North Fort Myers, FL 33903
239-652-4111
Endocrinology
Heitham Ajlouni, M.D.
Patricia Sareh, M.D.
Dawn Stoner, ARNP
Ruth Taggart, ARNP
7. 8960 Colonial Center Dr., Ste 302
Fort Myers, FL 33905
239-343-9686
Family Medicine
Whistler Mondesir, M.D.
Rodolfo Perez-Gallardo, M.D.
Joseph R. Salaz, M.D.
Albert van Zyl, M.D.
Lynn Billet, ARNP
Pam Salaz, ARNP
16.5225 Clayton Court
Fort Myers, FL 33907
239-343-8240
Joseph Hobson, D.O.
Barbara Baker, ARNP
Trisha Kalamaras, ARNP
7. 8960 Colonial Center Blvd.
Ste. 300
Fort Myers, FL 33905
239-343-9627
Jonathan Brisson, D.O.
Gregory E. Krill, M.D.
2. 16271 Bass Road
Fort Myers, FL 33908
239-343-7100
Sebastian Draulans, M.D.
Manuel A. Garcia, M.D.
Erin Lake, ARNP
Judith Wagoner, ARNP
8. 9131 College Point Court
Fort Myers, FL 33919
239-343-9100
Gilberto Riveron, M.D.
4. 1682 NE Pine Island Road
Cape Coral, FL 33909
239-424-1600
Hilario David, M.D.
Alla Zhukova, M.D.
Barbara Spokas, PA
6. 507 Cape Coral Pkwy.
Cape Coral, FL 33904
239-541-4421
Christina Cavanagh, M.D.
Julia Fashner, M.D.
Alfred Gitu, M.D.
Gary Goforth, M.D.
Brian Selius, D.O.
Roseane Illes, Ph.D.
Elena Reyes, Ph.D.
Lewis Caldrone, ARNP
18. 2780 Cleveland Ave., Ste. 709
Fort Myers, FL 33901
239-343-3831
Call Center available evenings
and weekends to make physician
appointments.
7 a.m.-7 p.m., 7 days a week
239-481-4111
Patricia Daneshmand, D.O.
Thomas Harris, M.D.
Priscilla Ndiang’Ui, FNP-BC
Amanda Volberg, ARNP
7. 8960 Colonial Center Dr., Ste. 300
Fort Myers, FL 33905
239-343-9470
Anjana Chaudhari, M.D.
3. 3501 Health Center Blvd.
Ste. 2310
Bonita Springs, FL 34135
239-495-5020
General Surgery
Eric A. Goldsmith, D.O.
11.4761 S. Cleveland Ave., Ste. 3
Fort Myers, FL 33907
239-424-1611
William Kokal, M.D.
Darren Miter, D.O.
8. 8380 Riverwalk Park, Ste. 100
Fort Myers, FL 33919
239-343-9960
Keit Doan, D.O.
Eric A. Goldsmith, D.O.
Stephen Moenning, M.D.
Jennifer Parish, PA-C
Rebeca Price, PA-C
M. Bess Raulersen, PA-C
13.708 Del Prado Blvd., Ste. 1
Cape Coral, FL 33990
239-424-2755
General & Vascular Surgery
Moutaa BenMaamer, M.D.
John Moss, D.O.
Kimberly Printz, ARNP
Robin Garling, PA
8. 8380 Riverwalk Park, Ste. 100
Fort Myers, FL 33919
239-343-9960
House Calls – Geriatrics
Jennifer Cittadino, ARNP
Amie Peterson, ARNP
8. 12600 Creekside Lane, Ste. 6
Fort Myers, FL 33919
239-343-9219
HIV Services
Douglas G. Brust, M.D.
18.2780 Cleveland Ave., Ste. 819
Fort Myers, FL 33901
239-343-3764
Infectious Diseases
Alvaro Beltran, M.D.
Esther Morrison, M.D.
Manuel Revuelta, M.D.
Stacy O’Brien, ARNP
18.2780 Cleveland Ave., Ste. 809
Fort Myers, FL 33901
239-343-9680
Mary Beth Saunders, D.O.
Pranav Shah, M.D.
Rajendra S. Sharma, M.D.
James Toomey, M.D.
10.9981 S. HealthPark Dr., Ste. 454
Fort Myers, FL 33908
239-343-9710
Internal Medicine
George Ball, M.D.
Patrick Bowman, M.D.
Paul Mantell, M.D.
Tina Wood, ARNP
1. 1569 Matthew Dr.
Fort Myers, FL 33907
239-343-8220
Alberto Concepcion, M.D.
Jason Triana, M.D.
3. 3501 Health Center Blvd.
Ste. 2310
Bonita Springs, FL 34135
239-495-5020
Francisco Marasigan, M.D.
Christine Orlowicz, M.D.
Bharath Radhakrishna, M.D.
4. 1682 NE Pine Island Road
Cape Coral, FL 33909
239-424-1600
Kai-Fu Chow, M.D.
5. 930 S. Main St.
LaBelle, FL 33935
863-674-5520
D I R E C T O R Y
John Ardesia, D.O.
Adriana Loukanova, M.D.
Leah Lynch, M.D.
Gaurav Nayyar, M.D.
Binh Truong, M.D.
Diana Young, M.D.
Theresa Corey, ARNP
Mary Ellen DeMartini, ARNP
Vicky Brooks, ARNP
Shawn Steiner, ARNP
2. 16271 Bass Road
Fort Myers, FL 33908
239-343-7100
Ellen Hoefer-Hopf, M.D.
Milena Loukanova, M.D.
Felix R. Mestas, M.D.
6. 507 Cape Coral Pkwy.
Cape Coral, FL 33904
239-541-4420
Carmen Barres, M.D.
7. 8960 Colonial Center Dr., Ste. 300
Fort Myers, FL 33905
239-343-9470
Charles Briseño, M.D.
Shailaja Hegde, M.D.
Aldith Lewis, D.O.
Bruce J. Lipschutz, D.O.
Melinda Welsh, ARNP
8. 9131 College Point Court
Fort Myers, FL 33919
239-343-9100
Integrative Medicine
Heather Auld, M.D.
Teresa Spano, Naturopathic Consultant
15. 16281 Bass Road, Ste. 301
Fort Myers, FL 33908
239-495-4480
Memory Care – Geriatrics
Vasyl Kasiyan, M.D.
Aboo Mannan, D.O.
Tanja Mani, Ph.D.
Michael Shain, Ph.D.
Denise McPherson, ARNP
Judith Anne Petrin, ARNP
8. 12600 Creekside Ln., Ste. 7
Fort Myers, FL 33919
239-343-9220
Neurosurgery
John J. Dusseau, M.D.
Michael Goodman, M.D.
Jeffrey S. Henn, M.D.
Saman P. Javedan, M.D.
Dean D. Lin, M.D.
Gregory Velat, M.D.
Debbie Dean, PA-C
Elaine Fournier, PA-C
Serena Warf, PA-C
Stephanie Lage, PA-C
John Daniel Prince, PA-C
Marco van den Bosh, PA-C
Jaclyn Wise, PA-C
7. 8931 Colonial Center Blvd.
Ste. 401
Fort Myers, FL 33905
239-343-3800
10.9981 S. HealthPark Dr., Ste. 120
Fort Myers, FL 33908
239-433-8888
13.708 Del Prado Blvd., Ste. 6
Cape Coral, FL 33904
239-343-3800
18.2780 Cleveland Ave., Ste. 819
Fort Myers, FL 33901
239-343-3800
Gregory Velat, M.D.
24.13681 Doctor’s Way, Suite 350
Fort Myers, FL 33912
239-343-3800
Neurointerventional Radiology
Christopher Firment, M.D.
Anthony Kam, M.D.
Nasser Razack, M.D.
Creed Rucker, M.D.
Fawad Shaheen, M.D.
Stephanie Featherstone, PA-C
24.13681 Doctor’s Way, Suite 350
Fort Myers, FL 33912
239-343-3800
Obstetrics/Gynecology
John Oliva, M.D.
Dirk Peterson, M.D.
4. 1682 NE Pine Island Road
Cape Coral, FL 33909
239-424-1600
Shelly Chvotzkin, M.D.
Gilbert Draulans, M.D.
Lesley P. Furman, M.D.
Edward Marineau, M.D.
Bipin Shah, M.D.
Kristin Fazio, CNM
Kwee Green, CNM
Tammy Leuttich, CNM
Christina Sierra, CNM
Cindy Stewart, CNM
Mandi Wade, CNM
2. 16271 Bass Road
Fort Myers, FL 33908
239-343-7100
5. 930 S. Main St.
LaBelle, FL 33935
239-343-7100
23. 4040 Palm Beach Blvd., Ste. F
Fort Myers, FL 33916
239-343-7100
18.2780 Cleveland Ave., Ste. 709
Fort Myers, FL 33901
239-343-3800
Kevin S. Campbell, M.D.
Diana D. DeVall, M.D.
Martin Ebenger, M.D.
Deidre Fish, M.D.
Melissa Lee, M.D.
Cherrie Morris, M.D.
Patricia Hunsucker, ARNP/CNM
Miranda Marcus, ARNP
Nancy Redecker, ARNP/CNM
Zoe Sheppard, ARNP/CNM
Kim Town, ARNP
Denise Waszkowski ARNP/CNM
3. 3501 Health Center Blvd.
Ste. 2130
Bonita Springs, FL 34135
239-343-6100
11.4761 S. Cleveland Ave., Ste. 4
Fort Myers, FL 33907
239-343-6100
15.15901 Bass Road, Suite 100
Fort Myers, FL 33908
239-343-6100
Occupational Health Services
Paul Fortier, M.D.
Andrew Singh, M.D.
Kelly Campbell-Wigington, ARNP
Carolyn Hoffman, ARNP
Daniel Nalepka, PA-C
4. 1682 NE Pine Island Road
Cape Coral, FL 33909
239-343-9841
11.4771 S. Cleveland Ave.
Fort Myers, FL 33907
239-343-9841
2. 16230 Summerlin Rd., Ste. 215
Fort Myers, FL 33908
239-343-9841
Palliative Care
Andrew Esch, M.D.
Ahmed Hassan, M.D.
Rabia Khan, D.O.
Colleen Tallen, M.D.
Jeanine Briones, ARNP
Debbie Chapa, ARNP
Amber Greco, ARNP
Holly Lanier, ARNP
Lolita Melhado, ARNP
Kathy Udell, ARNP
Kimberly Vogelbach, ARNP
7. 8960 Colonial Center Dr., Ste. 206
Fort Myers, FL 33905
239-343-9560
Psychiatry
Daryl Tanski, M.D.
Susan Samerdyke, ARNP
25 Behavioral Health Center
12550 New Brittany Blvd.
Fort Myers, FL 33907
239-343-9190
Pulmonology
Brian Horner, D.O.
Ragai Meena, M.D.
Sunil Pammi, M.D.
Stephen Wilczynski, M.D.
Dolan Abu Aouf, PA-C
Donna Bennett,PA-C
Ann Brock, PA-C
Nancy Ann Harrod, ARNP
David Lyskowsi, PA-C
Chris Mallari, PA-C
George Mitchell, PA-C
11.4751 S. Cleveland Ave.
Fort Myers, FL 33907
239-343-9888
13.650 Del Prado Blvd., Ste. 107
Cape Coral, FL 33990
239-343-9888
14.260 Beth Stacey Blvd., Ste. C
Lehigh Acres, FL 33936
239-343-9888
Pediatric Specialties
Pediatric Behavioral Medicine
Adrienne Tedeschi, M.D.
Pamela Papola, M.D.
15.15910 Bass Road, Ste. 108
Fort Myers, FL 33908
239-343-6050
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Pediatric Sleep Medicine
Jose Colon, M.D.
17. 13601 Plantation Road
Fort Myers, FL 33912
239-343-0762
Pediatric Surgery
Rodrigo Mon, M.D.
Amy Stanfill, MD.
Indravadan Vyas, M.D.
15. 15901 Bass Road, Ste. 108
239-343-9890
Pediatric Specialty Clinics
12.1265 Creekside Pkwy., Ste. 200
Naples, FL 34108
239-254-4270
22 .18316 Murdock Circle, Suite 106
Port Charlotte, FL 33948
941-235-4900
Pediatric specialties available:
• Allergy & Immunology
• Behavioral Medicine
• Endocrinology
• Hematology/Oncology
• Infectious Diseases
• Nephrology
• Neurology
• Sleep Medicine
• Surgery
Be
23
Fort Myers
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lvd
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9 21
Lee Blvd.
Exit
136
y.
Daniels Pkwy.
Gladiolus Dr.
7 26
Six Mile Cypress Pk
w
Cape Coral Pkwy.
Metro Pkwy.
1 11
16
8 25
Exit
138
Colonial Blvd.
Plantation Rd.
Cleveland Ave.
18
6
Gre
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M
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lvd
B
ach
19
10
14
Exit
131
17
Exit
128
15
2
Alico Rd.
Rd.
erlin
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Sum
Pediatric Neurology
Margie Morales, M.D.
Guillermo Philipps, M.D.
Britt Stroud, M.D.
Eric Vernier, M.D.
15. 15901 Bass Road, Suite 108
Fort Myers, FL 33908
239-343-6050
Estero
Bonita
Springs
Immokalee Rd.
Convenient Care locations
Lee Memorial
Health System Hospitals
12
Pediatric
Specialty
Clinic
Corkscrew Rd.
Exit
123
Coconut Rd.
3
EXIT
111
Livingston Road
Naples
Bonita Springs
Airport - Pulling Road
Pediatric Psychiatry
Denise Dutchak, M.D.
Ajay Mayor, M.D.
Dawn Picotte M.D.
12550 New Brittany Blvd.
Fort Myers, FL 33907
239-343-9190
Pediatric Psychology
(Hematology/Oncology)
Kim Shimoda, Ph.D.
10. 9981 S. HealthPark Drive, Ste. 158
Fort Myers, FL 33908
239-343-5333
20
Cape Coral
go
m
Pal
Goodlette-Frank Rd.
John Distasio, M.D., PhD
Denise Drago, M.D.
Kimberly Ghuman, M.D.
Pierre Loredo, M.D.
Anthony Pietroniro, M.D.
Thomas Schiller, M.D.
Lindsay Schwander, M.D.
Martin Sherman, M.D.
Piedade Silva, M.D.
Nancy Witham, M.D.
William Daniel Wood Jr., M.D.
Cynthia Hohman, ARNP
Amy Hicks, ARNP
Kori Howell, ARNP
Michelle Klempka, ARNP
Julie Vega, ARNP
Amanda Ranft, ARNP
3. 3501 Health Center Blvd., Ste. 2220
Bonita Springs, FL 34135
239-343-9888
Pediatric Nephrology
Irina Gershin-Stevens, D.O.
15. 15901 Bass Road, Suite 102
Fort Myers, FL 33908
239-343-9890
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oc
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Exit
141
Harbor Blvd.
26
Tamiami Trail North
Pediatric Physicians
Pediatric Infectious Diseases
Michelle Hoffman, M.D.
Stephanie Stovall, M.D.
10. 9981 S. HealthPark Dr., Ste. 454
Fort Myers, FL 33908
239-343-9710
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Russell Becker, D.O.
eriwSte.
8. 8380 Riverwalk ParkPBlvd.,
inkle100Way
Fort Myers, FL 33919
239-343-9960
Wound Care & Hyperbaric Medicine
Lisa Chow, M.D.
James Gostigian, M.D.
Robert Kupsaw, M.D.
Frederick “Rick” Hall, PA
21. 13778 Plantation Rd.
Fort Myers, FL 33912
239-343-0454
Pediatric Hematology/Oncology
Craig MacArthur, M.D.
Cameron Nicholson, M.D.
Emad Salman, M.D.
Kelly Sawczyn, M.D.
Jennifer Vega, ARNP
Pam Wojciki, ARNP
10. 9981 S.HealthPark Drive, Ste.156
Fort Myers, FL 33908
239-343-5333
Pine
5
Tam
Pediatric
Specialty Clinic
Bass
16.5216 Clayton Court
Fort Myers, FL 33907
239-343-8260
Rheumatology
Juan Bustillo, M.D.
Veronica Bynum, PA
7. 8960 Colonial Center Dr., Ste. 204
Fort Myers, FL 33905
239-343-9633
Sleep Medicine
Jose Colon, M.D.
Javaad Khan, M.D.
Debra Peck, ARNP
17.13601 Plantation Road
Fort Myers, FL 33912
239-343-0762
Spine Center
Sebastian Klisiewicz, M.D.
Donna Lanthier, M.D.
7. 8960 Colonial Center Dr., Ste. 210
Fort Myers, FL 33905
239-343-9430
Vascular Surgery
Pediatric Endocrinology
Asjad Khan, M.D.
Cayce Jehaimi, M.D.
Dina Pearson, M.D.
Sujana Reddy, M.D.
Tammy McCarty, ARNP
15. 15901 Bass Road, Ste. 102
Fort Myers, FL 33908
239-343-9890
Port
Charlotte
22
Vanderbilt Drive
Rahul Challapalli, M.D.
Vijay Das, M.D.
Razak Dosani, M.D.
Abusayeed Feroz, M.D.
Sagar Naik, M.D.
Christine Becker, PA
Nelson Guzman, PA-C
Alexander Iriarte, PA
Eric Jordan, PA
Jeff Jordan, PA
Ira Saunders, PA
Debra Berry, ARNP
Christina Caffee, ARNP
Ann Cromika, ARNP
Miriam Ellenburg, ARNP
Janice Kirk, ARNP
4. 1682 NE Pine Island Road
Cape Coral, FL 33909
239-343-8260
Pediatric Cardiology
Eric Eason, D.O.
15. 16281 Bass Road, Ste. 304
Fort Myers, FL 33908
239-343-7490
Pediatric Ear, Nose and Throat
Stuart Morgenstein, D.O.
Andreas Werle, M.D.
15. 15901 Bass Road, Ste. 108
Fort Myers, FL 33908
239-343-9890
Del Prado Blvd.
8. 9131 College Point Court
Fort Myers, FL 33919
239-343-9130
Exit
143
Exit
116
Vand
erbil
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Cape Coral Hospital.....................
239-424-2000
Bonita Beach Rd.
ad
Blood Center Location
636 Del Prado Blvd., Cape Coral, FL 33990
CONVENIENT CARE These walk-in medical centers provide
treatment when you have common medical problems or
minor, nonlife-threatening emergencies. Lab and X-ray services
are available. Most major insurance plans are accepted. No
appointment needed.
Ann Boudreaux, M.D.
Karen Calkins, M.D.
Nicole Higgs-Doughty, M.D.
Oxana Douglas, M.D.
Saiful Islam, M.D.
Jeffrey Johns, D.O.
Chris Loutzenhiser, D.O.
Tiffani MaGee, M.D.
Abel Natali-Lopez, M.D.
Gustavo Prada, M.D.
Fort Myers
• 4771 S. Cleveland Ave.
(North of Page Field)
• 16230 Summerlin Rd., Ste. 215
(Summerlin & Bass Rds.)
Cape Coral
• 1682 NE Pine Island Road
Gulf Coast Medical Center............ 239-343-1000
13681 Doctor’s Way, Fort Myers, FL 33912
(Daniels and Metro Parkway)
David Schulze, M.D.
Avery Wright, D.O.
Karen Knific, ARNP
Sarah McGregor, ARNP
Sonya Powell, ARNP
Cynthia Reichelt, ARNP
Laura Snyder, PA
Maureen Solliday, ARNP
Lauren Wright, ARNP
Bonita Springs
Bonita Community
Health Center
3501 Health Center Blvd.
Urgent Care
7 a.m.-7 p.m. Mon.-Fri.
8 a.m.-4 p.m. Sat. and Sun.
239-949-1050
Fort Myers and Cape Coral locations are open 7 a.m.-7 p.m., 7 days a
week. For information or appointments, call 239-481-4111.
HealthPark Medical Center.......... 239-343-5000
9981 S. HealthPark Dr., Fort Myers, FL 33908
(Summerlin and Bass Road)
Golisano Children’s Hospital of
Southwest Florida.............239-343-KIDS (5437)
Lee Memorial Hospital................. 239-343-2000
Blood Center Location
2776 Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers, FL 33901
Rehabilitation Hospital............... 239-343-3900
3
Bonita Community
Health Center ......................... 239-949-1050
Blood Center Location
3501 Health Center Blvd., Bonita Springs, FL 34135
7
Regional Cancer Center .......... 239-343-9500
8931 Colonial Center Drive, Suite 200
Fort Myers, FL 33905
26
Outpatient Surgery Center ..... 239-343-9600
8970 Colonial Center Drive
Fort Myers, FL 33905
An outpatient department of Lee Memorial Hospital
Calendar
Events & Screenings
Mobile Autism Screening
Golisano Children’s Hospital of
Southwest Florida hosts free screenings
for children younger than age 5.
9:30 a.m.-2 p.m., June 5
Family Health Center, 2256 Heitman
Street, downtown Fort Myers
Call 239-343-6838; appointments are
encouraged
Healthy Living Lecture Series with
Dr. Sal Lacagnina
The Healthy Living Lecture Series is
a free, monthly program that covers
a variety of health care topics. Topic
this month “Cancer: How to Avoid this
Growing Epidemic.”
Noon-1 p.m., June 9
Cape Coral Hospital Auxiliary
Conference Room
Call 239-424-3232
Pediatric CPR & First Aid
Golisano Children’s Hospital of
Southwest Florida Child Advocacy
department is hosting a pediatric
CPR and first aid class for parents and
caregivers.
9 a.m.-4 p.m., June 20
HealthPark Medical Center
$50 per person
Call 239-343-5101
SHARE Club
Early Heart Attack Signs and
Symptoms
Join SHARE Club for this presentation
by Stephanie Syska, RN, director of
emergency services and the cardiac
decision unit at HealthPark Medical
Center, as she discusses the different
early signs and symptoms of a heart
attack.
10 a.m., June 9
Emeritus of Bonita Springs, 26850
South Bay Drive, Bonita Springs
(behind Promenade at Bonita Bay)
Call 239-424-3765
Computer Technology: Why You
Should Know the Basics
Dennis Hart, SHARE Club volunteer
computer instructor, will present why
learning the basics of operating your
computer is the right place to start. You
also will learn about computer classes
available at SHARE Club.
10 a.m., June 10
Cape Coral Hospital Auxiliary
Conference Room
Call 239-424-3765
The Challenge of Medication
Management in Older Adults
Join SHARE Club for this presentation
by Stephen Kessinger, R.Ph., pharmacy
director at Cape Coral Hospital, as he
speaks about the challenges some
older adults have with managing their
medications.
10 a.m., June 17
Cape Coral Hospital
Call 239-424-3765
Protein Needs of Older Adults
SHARE Club invites you to attend this
presentation by Carrie Bloemers, Lee
Memorial Health System registered
dietitian. She will discuss the protein
needs of older adults to maintain
good health.
10 a.m., June 22
Gulf Coast Medical Center
Administrative Conference Room #2x
Call 239-424-3765
Skin Cancer Screening
SHARE Club invites adults age 18 years
and older for this skin cancer screening
provided by Riverchase Dermatology.
Please wear loose-fitting clothing.
8-11 a.m., June 24
Bonita Springs YMCA, 27200 Kent
Road, Bonita Springs
Call 239-221-7560; appointments
are required
Cancer
Bladder Cancer Support Group
3-5 p.m., first Wednesday of every
month
Regional Cancer Center
Contact Karen Godfrey, Bladder
Cancer Advocacy Network volunteer
advocate at 239-992-4809 or
kgod@comcast.net
Blood Cancer Support Group
Time and date to be determined
Location to be determined
Registration is required. Contact Seth
Berkowitz at 800-955-4572 or
Seth.Berkowitz@LLS.org
www.LeeMemorial.org
Please call to register and for more information.
Brain Tumor Support Group
6:30-7:45 p.m., third Tuesday of
each month
Lee Memorial Hospital Volunteer
Conference Room
Call Dona Ross at 239-433-4396
Cancer Nutrition Seminar
This free monthly seminar is for
oncology patients, survivors and
caregivers. Each month features a
different topic and food demonstration
with tastings and recipe.
2-3 p.m., second Wednesday of the
month
Regional Cancer Center, Fourth Floor
Conference Room
Contact Valerie Butram at
239-343-9559 or
Valerie.Butram@LeeMemorial.org
Colorectal Cancer Support Group
5:30-7 p.m., fourth Tuesday of
each month
Gulf Coast Medical Center, Women’s
Services Entrance,
first floor, Room ACR #12
Call Larry Mickley at 239-454-3308
Multiple Myeloma Support Group
6-7 p.m., third Tuesday of the month
Hope Hospice, 9470 HealthPark
Circle, Fort Myers
Contact Joanie Borbely at
860-655-7107 or
jborbely@myeloma.org
Oral, Head and Neck Cancer Support
Group
3-4 p.m., fourth Tuesday of each
month
Gulf Coast Medical Center Medical
Offices, 13685 Doctor’s Way, Suite
250, Fort Myers
Call Stacey Brill at 239-343-1645
Thyroid Cancer Support Group
10:30 a.m.-noon, third Saturday of
each month
Lakes Regional Library
15290 Bass Road, Fort Myers
Call Sally Fontaine at 239-590-0797
or taranfeather@comcast.net.
Mastectomy Pre-Operative
Education Class
Receive hands-on training and
information regarding your upcoming
mastectomy and valuable take-home
tools to aid you during recovery. Free
10-11:30 a.m., Tuesdays
Regional Cancer Center
Third Floor Specialty Clinic
Conference Room
Class size is limited; call
239-343-9500
Diabetes
Diabetes Self-Management Classes
A 10-hour education program
discussing all aspects of diabetes
self-management, including meal
planning, exercise, stress management,
medication therapy and prevention of
complications. Classes are available in
English and Spanish.
Weekly morning, afternoon and
evening classes available
Lee Memorial Hospital and Cape
Coral Hospital.
Diabetes education is a covered
benefit for Medicare and most
commercial insurances.
Call 239-424-3127. Must be
registered and a physician referral is
required.
Pregnancy & Diabetes Program
An educational program for expectant
mothers with diabetes or gestational
diabetes. This program is available in
English and Spanish.
Weekly classes available
Call 239-424-3127
Weight Loss
Weight Management
Individualized weight loss counseling
with a registered dietitian.
Weekly counseling sessions are
available
Call 239-424-3120
Weight Management Exercise
Program
Commit to eight weeks. This program
meets once a week for one hour.
Participants work out together and then
have a discussion/lecture.
Time and date vary
Wellness Center-Cape Coral
Contact Sarah Mitchell at
239-424-3231 or
Sarah.Mitchell@LeeMemorial.org
Community Weight Loss
Management Program
This weight loss program features
30 minutes of group activity and 30
minutes of discussion. This 8-week
program is a great way to create a
healthy lifestyle in a motivating group
setting.
Time and date vary
Wellness Center-Cape Coral
Contact Sarah Mitchell at
239-424-3231 or
Sarah.Mitchell@LeeMemorial.org
Positive Parent Support Group
Provided by Golisano Children’s Hospital
of Southwest Florida in collaboration
with the Greater Naples YMCA, this
support group is for families of children
with special abilities. It provides the
opportunity for families to connect
and establish supportive relationships.
Snacks and beverages are provided.
6-7:30 p.m., third Thursday of
every month
Greater Naples YMCA, 5450 YMCA
Road, Naples
Call 239-597-3148
Ortho/Neuro/Spine
Partners in Parenting
Classes teach parents how to focus
on their strengths and set appropriate
expectations for their children.
Classes meet once a week for 2 ½
hours, day and evening locations
available.
Fort Myers and Cape Coral
No charge and free child care
available for infants and toddlers.
Call 239-939-2808
Preoperative Joint Replacement
Class
Everything you need to know to feel
comfortable before joint replacement
surgery.
10:30 a.m., every Tuesday at Cape
Coral Hospital; 10 – 11 a.m., Fridays
at Gulf Coast Medical Center or
varied times and dates at Lee
Memorial Hospital
Call Cape Coral Hospital at 239-4243150; Gulf Coast Medical Center
at 239-343-0300 or Lee Memorial
Hospital at 239-343-3411 and leave
a message
Stroke Support Group
For caregivers and stroke survivors.
10:30 a.m., every Tuesday (except
third Tuesday of the month)
Cape Coral Hospital, Room A
Call 239-424-2317
Aquatic Art
Pool exercises for people with
Parkinson’s disease.
1-2 p.m., Mondays and Wednesdays
Wellness Center-Cape Coral
Call 239-424-3220
Aphasia Group
For those who have difficulty talking
due to stroke.
9-10 a.m., Tuesdays
Wellness Center-Cape Coral
First session free, then $10 per
session
Call Nancy Gizzi at 239-424-3572
Fort Myers Stroke Support Group
An educational and social support
group for stroke survivors and
caregivers.
4:30-5:30 p.m., first and third
Mondays of each month
Lee Memorial Hospital Auditorium
Call 239-343-3493
Pregnancy/Parenting
Childbirth Preparation
Understand the birthing process,
choices in obstetrics, birthing
fundamentals, breathing, relaxation,
cesarean preparation, breastfeeding
fundamentals and mother/baby care.
Includes access to an on-line learning
program plus a 3-hour Tour and Talk
session. Women and their support
person will receive a tour of the birth
facilities and birthing beds.
Classes take place throughout
the year
HealthPark Medical Center, Gulf
Coast Medical Center, and Cape Coral
Hospital
$60 per couple (scholarships are
available)
Call 239-343-5271 or
visit www.LeeMemorial.org/BirthEd
Baby Care & Car Seat Safety
This is a one-time class for expectant
parents.
The class assists parents in becoming
more comfortable and confident in
their parenting role following the birth
of their baby. This class also teaches
parents how to properly use and install
child restraints.
Classes take place throughout the year.
Time and date vary
$20 per couple, $5 per additional
person in attendance
Call 239-343-5101 or email
Lorena.Rodriguez@LeeMemorial.org
Breastfeeding
Plan to give your baby the best possible
start. Learn about common problems
encountered during the first few weeks.
All classes are taught by board certified
lactation consultants.
Classes take place throughout the
year
HealthPark Medical Center and Gulf
Coast Medical Center$20 per couple
Call 239-343-5271 or visit
www.LeeMemorial.org/BirthEd
Support Groups/Classes
Ostomy Support Group
For individuals considering or who have
had an ostomy (colostomy, ileostomy
or urostomy), and the spouses or
caregivers of individuals with ostomies.
12:45-2:30 p.m., first Tuesday
of each month
Myerlee Manor, 1499 South
Brandywine Circle, Fort Myers
Call Howard Weisberg at
239-482-8433
Caregiver Support Group
This group focuses on the unique needs
and concerns of those caring for a
loved one, regardless of their medical
condition.
4:30-6 p.m., second Wednesday of
each month
Regional Cancer Center lobby
Call Mark Geisler at 239-343-1126
Pulmonary Fibrosis Support Group
1-3 p.m., third Wednesday
of each month
Lee Memorial Hospital Medical Office
Building, Suite 705
Call Lynne Puglise at 941-875-5732
Yoga
This class is available to the general
public with priority given to current
cancer patients and primary caregivers.
Mats, straps, blocks and aromatherapy
provided by a grant from the Junior
League of Fort Myers.
9:15-10:30 a.m., every Friday
Regional Cancer Center, Fourth Floor
Conference Room
$5/class for cancer patients and/or
caregivers and $10/class for
general public
Call 239-343-9503; registration
is required
Huffers & Puffers Support Group
For COPD patients, friends, family
members and caregivers.
1-3 p.m., third Friday
of each month
Lee Memorial Hospital Medical Office
Building,
Suite 705
Call Nayda Agosto at 239-343-3520
Gentle Yoga – Multiple Sclerosis
Society
Complimentary yoga class for members
of the Multiple Sclerosis Society.
11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Tuesdays and
Thursdays
Wellness Center-Fort Myers
Call 239-418-2000
Wellness Center-Cape Coral
Contact Sarah Mitchell at 239424-3231 or Sarah.Mitchell@
LeeMemorial.org
Better Breathers
For COPD patients, friends, family
members and caregivers.
2-4 p.m., third Monday of each
month
Wellness Center-Cape Coral
Call Jan Burket, COPD advocate, at
239-217-0545
Free Memory Screenings
1-3 p.m., every Monday
Lee Physician Group Memory Care,
12600 Creekside Lane, Suite 7,
Fort Myers
Appointments are encouraged; call
239-343-9220
Lee Physician Group Memory Care
Support Group
This support group is for caregivers
of those with memory impairments.
Our mission is to provide knowledge,
guidance and support in caring for their
loved ones and themselves.
4:30 p.m., second Tuesday and last
Thursday of each month
Riverwalk Professional Center, 12600
Creekside Lane, first floor conference
room, Fort Myers
Call Alexandra Henderson at
239-343-9224
Mended Heart Support Group
This national support group is for
people with heart disease. Meetings
feature excellent speakers—including
this month’s speaker, Brittany Cahill, who
will speak about stents.
6:30 p.m., second Tuesday of
each month
Wa-Ke Hatchee Community Center,
16760 Bass Road, Fort Myers
Call Joe Jansen at 239-461-0980
Powerful Tools for Caregivers
A nationally recognized, evidencebased program designed to help family
caregivers take care of themselves while
caring for a loved one at home, in a
nursing facility or from long distance.
Time and date vary
Location varies
A donation of $30 helps defray the
cost of the book
Call Alexandra Henderson at
239-343-9224
It’s All About You
Can I improve my quality of life? Yes, you
can—even with chronic diseases like
arthritis, high blood pressure, diabetes
and other health conditions. This
6-week workshop teaches people with
chronic health conditions how to better
manage their health and the symptoms
that accompany chronic illnesses, such
as pain, depression and fatigue. Many
workshop leaders also have a chronic
illness.
Time and date varies
Location varies
Call 239-424-3122
Brain Aneurysm Support Group
This support group is for people who
have experienced brain aneurysms.
Family members, significant others and
caregivers are welcome to attend.
5:30-7:30 p.m., June
Lee Memorial Hospital 5th Floor
Conference Room
Call Shaun Karleskint, RN or
Tiffany Blauvelt, RN at 239-343-1571
Loss of an Adult Child
6-7:30 p.m., first and third Tuesday of
each month
Gulf Coast Medical Center
Community Room
Call Mark Geisler at 239-343-1126
Trauma Support Group
A support group for people and
caregivers who have survived traumatic
injury.
6:30-8:30 p.m., second Tuesday of
each month
Lee Memorial Hospital Med Room 3
Call 239-343-2561
Lifestyle Coaching
This service is available for Wellness
Center members and nonmembers.
Are you looking for motivation,
accountability, direction? Lifestyle
coaching sessions can help.
Time and date vary
3900.01 5-15
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