lifetimes: fall 2011

LifeTimesFALL 2011

Jay Cox, FACHE

President & CEO

Tuomey Healthcare System

Letter from the President

ear Friends:I still remember the day my wife and I found out that she was

pregnant with our first child. It was such an incredible feeling. We were starting our family, and physically, she was entering a very new phase in her life. It was a little scary at the time. Everything was so new.

Now, close to 30 years later, I still remember those feelings: Anxious, excited, a little nervous yet very hopeful for the future. It was a wonderful time in our lives.

Here at Tuomey, we all try to remember those special feelings. We remember what it’s like to be the patient. In this issue of LifeTimes, we look at the different stages of a woman’s life and how we are here to serve you as you enter those different parts of your life. And we dedicate this issue to the women in our community. Strong, vibrant women, like our two new Tuomey board members – Nicole Norris and Kim Harvin. These dedicated women joined our board in July and are sure to work hard for your hospital.

We also take a look at our physician partners and what they are doing to take care of women. Sumter Ob/Gyn, which has been a part of this community for more than 75 years, offers procedures and surgeries using the latest technology. There is no reason to leave this community for your gynecological or obstetric services. You won’t find better care anywhere.

The Level Two Nursery here at Tuomey – the only one in our service area – is located in the Bell Women and Infants Pavilion. This beautiful building continues to offer a state-of-the-art facility for our patients. It’s filled with compassionate people who are here to serve you.

October is also Breast Cancer Awareness Month. We are taking a strong team approach here at Tuomey to fight this disease with everything we have. Dr. Henry Moses, one of our talented surgeons, summed it up best when he said he hoped to work himself out of a job someday. We hope he gets his wish.

As you read through this issue, we hope you gain some additional insight on how your community hospital is here for you – in each stage of a woman’s life. And we do it all for one reason: Our patients.

Sincerely,

LifeTimesVolume 14 | Issue 2

LifeTimes is published quarterly by the Public Relations Department of Tuomey Healthcare System as a community service for the friends and patrons of Tuomey Healthcare System and The Tuomey Foundation.

TUOMEYHEALTHCARE SYSTEM129 N. Washington St. Sumter, SC 29150803.774.9000www.tuomey.com

EDITOR-IN-CHIEFBrenda P. Chase

CREATIVE DIRECTORTraci Quinn

DESIGNERSTraci QuinnChris Reardon

CONTRIBUTING WRITERSBrenda P. ChaseTraci Quinn

PHOTOGRAPHYChris Moore

EDITORIALADVISORYBOARDBrenda P. ChaseJeff FawGregg Martin

PRINTERState Printing Company

Copyright 2011

Tuomey Healthcare System

D

in this issue Fall | 2011

02 New Board MembersMeet the newest additions to theTuomey Board of Directors:Kim Harvin and Nicole Norris.

10

also inside this issue:

Cutting Edgeof Breast CareSumter Surgical Associates Henry Moses, M.D., and Steven Lauzon, M.D., discuss women’s surgeries and the amazing advances in breast cancer treatment.

ON THE FRONT LINESIn this all-female edition

of LifeTimes, we take a

look at women’s health

and wellness and the

best that Tuomey has

to offer.

Q&A WITH KEVIN & CARLASumter Plastic and

Reconstructive

Surgery’s Kevin Hanz,

M.D., and Carla Foley,

NP-C, talk with us

about their practice and

delivering world-class

care with hometown

compassion.

04

14The Tuomey Foundation: page 16

Contributors to The Foundation: page 18

Upcoming events at Tuomey: page 20

Photo Gallery: page 20

2 LifeTimes | Fall 2011

KIMHARVIN Harvin graduated from the University of South Carolina in 1980 with her bachelor of science degree in biology, and later finished the pharmacy program at USC and became a licensed pharmacist. She currently works part-time at both Prescriptions, Inc. and the Sumter Family Health Center.

“When I was in pharmacy school, you had to work 1,500 hours after your class work in order to complete your degree, and my first internship was here at Tuomey,” said Harvin. “I worked for (former director) Lois McCracken in the pharmacy and I loved it. I am very thankful for that experience.”

Harvin, who grew up in Sumter after her father was stationed here, married Sep Harvin III and then moved to Fort Worth, Texas. After another move to North

Carolina and then on to Minnesota, Harvin said she couldn’t wait to get back to South Carolina and home.

“At that point we did not have children, but I knew that when we did, I wanted my children to grow up here, to live close to their grandparents,” she added. “I have a wonderful family and I am so fortunate to be here.”

She and her husband have a daughter, Tracy, who recently began a PhD program in English at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Harvin, a member of St. James Lutheran Church, is a sustaining member of the Sumter Junior Welfare League and has served on both the Sumter Museum Board and the Heart of Sumter Neighborhood Association Board. The other Harvins are no strangers to Tuomey, either. Both her husband and her brother-in-law, Scott, are graduates of the Tuomey Fellows program, and her father-in-law, Sep Jr., is

a longtime Tuomey volunteer.

“I feel it is a tremendous privilege to serve on this board,” Harvin said. “My mother (Mary Foreman) was a nurse and retired from Tuomey after working here for more

than 20 years. Being on this board is the best way to honor her memory.”

“It’s important to have quality healthcare right here at home,” added Harvin. “And I am excited to be a part of that.”

New Board MembersJoin Tuomey

LifeTimes | Fall 2011 3

NICOLENORRIS

Norris is a 1990 graduate of Florida State University, where she earned her degree in interior design. Prior to moving to Sumter in 1996, she started a home-based design business in Las Vegas and also taught for a local trade school that specialized in interior design training. After two years at the Interior Design Institute, Norris was promoted to Director of Education and spearheaded the curriculum development from a one-year certificate program to a two-year associate degree program.

After an Air Force transfer to Sumter with her husband Clete, Norris decided to open her own business. Originally located in rental property in downtown Sumter, it has now grown to a six-person operation. In 2005, she purchased and remodeled a building in which to house her design business and retail showroom. She has won two ASID design awards and has been published in South Carolina Homes & Gardens.

“Sumter has been so good to my family and me,” said Norris, who was named the 2011 Minority and Women Owned Business Person of the Year. “I am grateful to this community, and I am thrilled with the opportunity to serve on the hospital board. I hope I can give some insight from the perspective of a woman and a business owner. I’m really looking forward to learning more about the hospital, since it plays such an integral part in our community.”

Norris served the Sumter Chamber as a board member for eight years and as chairman in 2005-2006 and was the president of the Sumter Junior Welfare League in 2008-2009. Prior to joining Tuomey’s board, she served on the board for The Tuomey Foundation, and is also a 2004 graduate of the Tuomey Fellows program. She and her husband are members of First Presbyterian Church and they have one son, Ryan, a freshman at Wilson Hall.

Tuomey Healthcare System is proud to announce the addition of two new board members. Nicole Norris and Kim Harvin joined the Tuomey board during the summer and bring with them a wealth of talent and skills.“We are so pleased to have both of these women join an already outstanding group of leaders,” said Tuomey President & CEO Jay Cox. “Nicole and Kim are exceptional women who will provide our hospital with their unique perspectives. We welcome them to our team.”

By Brenda P. Chase

Women are far more likely to go to

the doctor than men are. That’s been true since the first physician hung up a shingle and hired a receptionist. It’s not (necessarily) that women are any smarter or that they get sick any more often. It’s all about babies -- or, more accurately, the reproductive system. Women face the same illnesses that men do, but they also have to address sexual health issues much earlier in life. Even if they don’t care to have children, they have to think about their reproductive organs, about conception and contraception, about fertility and pregnancy and menopause. And while women’s bodies haven’t changed since that first doctor began subscribing to magazines in bulk, women’s healthcare – obstetrics and gynecology -- has morphed into a primary care specialty that’s often the front line of wellness.

“Females seek care; males don’t,” said Dr. Murrell Smith, one of seven partners at Sumter OB/GYN at Tuomey. “Women are used to thinking about their health because they have babies. It makes them more pro-active, and it begins early in life.”

Dr. Helen D. “Lana” Latham agreed. “Most young women, on their first visit, want to talk about the Pill, about contraceptives. In order to maintain those contraceptives, they have to have annual physical exams. If they don’t have any major health problems, chances are the OB/GYN is the only doctor they’ll see on any kind of regular basis.”


“IT’S NOT YOUR GRANDMA’S SURGERY”

“Women’s bodies haven’t changed, but the services are amazing nowadays,” Gardner said. Simply put, she said, “Uteruses get old and boggy, they get fibroids on them; our bladders fall over time … but the things our grandmamas had to have done with a big surgery, now you just have so many other options. They have more medicines to treat ailments, better options for less-invasive procedures, and you have much shorter hospital stays.”

Latham confirms Gardner’s enthusiastic endorsement of the state-of-the-art surgical and advanced laparoscopic procedures offered at Tuomey.

Laparoscopy uses a small telescope inserted into the abdomen through a small incision. The image is projected onto a screen; doctors use it to diagnose and correct problems.

“We’re capable of addressing a majority of issues laparoscopically,” Latham said – like checking for an ectopic pregnancy, endometriosis, revealing causes of infertility, separating

adhesions. “We even offer advanced laparoscopic hysterectomies.”

Dr. Triz Smith, another

partner, concurred. “We’ve gone more minimally invasive with everything. A lot of these procedures used to require days in the hospital, but now we can offer shorter hospital stays, shorter convalescent time. We can remove ovaries, cysts and tumors; do laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy for uterine fibroids; and we do diagnostic laparoscopy for pelvic pain and endometriosis.

“We can also do ablative procedures, which means no incision at all – we can go in through the vagina or the cervix.”

While the method isn’t new any longer, Dr. Murrell Smith said Tuomey has been “ahead of other hospitals for a long time and continues to stay out in

front.” For example, Dr. Smith was only the

second person in the state to perform laser laparascopic surgery.

Women with ovarian, cervical or endometrial cancers are referred to a gynecological cancer center in Charleston, Greenville or Columbia, but as Dr. Triz Smith noted, “We still see those patients who will ultimately see a gynecological oncologist or a maternal fetal medical specialist. We triage those patients,

do the tissue diagnosis here and the appropriate lab work so that

patients who are referred out for more advanced care don’t

have to repeat the initial testing or tissue sampling.”

“We’ll do what’s best for the patient,” Latham said, “and

we’ll advise them on the best possible treatment,

wherever that might be.”

BABY, BABY, BABY!You can’t discuss women’s healthcare

without talking about babies. Tuomey has spent years developing

the specialized components of a top-notch women’s center.

“We are commited to helping women and their families have the most positive birth experience possible,” said Susan Gaymon, administrative director of Women’s and Children’s Services.

As a result, obstetric and gynecologic offices have evolved to address a wider range of health concerns than just reproductive issues. Sumter OB/GYN, for example, can treat thyroid disease and hypertension. They offer vaccines for the flu, for pneumonia and whooping cough, and now administer Gardasil, the vaccine that protects against four types of the human papillomavirus, one of the major causes of vaginal and cervical cancers.

They can also offer their patients general health counseling, guide them on wellness issues and refer them to other healthcare professionals – an important

element in the care of women who may not be regularly visiting another doctor.

Kim Gardner, RN, Tuomey’s Women’s Health Educator, says that perhaps the best result of this evolution is that “we can talk about women’s health issues in a much more public forum now.”

“We try to teach women to be in tune with their bodies and to be their own best advocate,” she said. “Tuomey is a great place for that because we’re a large enough facility to handle most situations but still small enough to treat you like family.

“You’re not just a number here.”

“We have everything a mother needs to have a safe, well-supported delivery.”

And that commitment shows, from the technology to the teaching.

The OB doctors brag about Tuomey’s fabulous James E. Bell Jr. M.D. Women and Infants Pavilion, which includes a Labor & Delivery wing, a Level II Nursery and a separate post-partum unit. When asked what’s so special about this center, the answers always include three things -- in addition to “a caring, dedicated staff,” of course: central fetal monitoring stations that “change the game” when it comes to evaluating a patient in labor; a high-level nursery; and a ’round-the-clock anesthetist team, on site and ready to go any time of the day or night.

About 100 babies are delivered at Tuomey each month, some 1,200 per year on average.

When Dr. Murrell Smith arrived at Tuomey in 1977, “we had one fetal monitor. The labor ‘rooms’ were a curtain between laboring patients – patients who had to be transported to another room when they started to deliver. And if they had to have a c-section, they had to be moved to another floor in the building.”

Now, “We have a beautiful labor and delivery suite, where you labor and deliver in a spacious room. We have two rooms ready for cesarean sections when needed.”

Triz, who joined his father’s practice partnership in 2007, said the availability of 24-hour anesthesia and the central fetal monitoring make a huge difference for women having babies.

“We can view the heart-rate strip from anywhere on the floor now, or even from our offices or our homes.”

“It makes the evaluation of a patient so much faster and more efficient,” Latham explained. “We can make a decision about what may need to be done even as we’re driving in to the hospital. We can consult with our partners and take care of the patient in a much more timely fashion.”

And the team of CRNAs (certified registered nurse anesthetists) who “live” at Tuomey make a world of difference for laboring women as well.

“In an emergency, on the weekends, even on a Saturday afternoon at 2 p.m., we have a dedicated anesthetist on site so we can do whatever we need to do quickly,” Dr. Triz Smith said. “You won’t find this kind of service everywhere.”

The Level II Nursery means that Tuomey can deliver and take care of babies born at 32 weeks and up. There’s room for up to 20 babies, some of whom may need to be on IV medicines, oxygen or antibiotics. It provides preemies who’ve had to spend time in a neonatal ICU a place of transition before going home, and it gives the parents a chance to learn in a calm and nurturing environment how to take care of a baby born too early with daunting special needs.

LET TUOMEYTAKE CARE OF YOU

Whether you’re a college student coming in for your first gynecological exam, a young married woman looking for a great place to have a baby or take a

class about child-birth, someone in need of gynecological surgery or a “woman of a certain age” navigating the waters of menopause, Sumter OB/GYN and Tuomey can take great care of you.

The surgeons and other doctors in the OB department are required to maintain board certification – a higher standard set by Tuomey and not required by most departments in the state.

“It’s not just a re-check, but a rigorous boarding process,” Dr. Triz Smith

said. “We maintain competency on many levels, take new

tests, submit chart reviews, submit to a written exam,”

Latham said. So the doctors are up-to-

date on every new technology and medicine and philosophy.

The facilities are modern and high-tech but also comfortable,

and emphasis is placed on educating patients and making them stronger, confident advocates for their own wellness.

The services offered are cutting-edge; the latest, least invasive possible.

“Women decide where their families go for healthcare,” Latham said. So why should they pick Tuomey?

Simply put, the younger Smith said, “Tuomey Regional Medical Center has the most modern, up-to-date healthcare available – a top-notch staff and the best patient-centered careI have seen.”



For most women, it’s an incredible experience to have a baby. Bringing that new little one into the world is something you never forget. Counting those sweet little fingers and toes, hearing that first cry, knowing that your life is forever changed because a part of you now lives in another person.

We at Tuomey know that moment is an extraordinary event in the life of the new family, and so we’ve always taken pride in the care you get during that very special time. The place where you choose to give birth needs to be outstanding. It needs to be as close to perfect as that precious little life you’ve created.

“Of course we have an excellent team of nurses and doctors here at Tuomey. Our caregivers are absolutely second to none,” said Susan Gaymon, administrative director of Women’s and Children’s Services. “But what makes us even more special are the beautiful surroundings here for the women. From the start, in the spacious Labor & Delivery rooms, to the recovery in the Bell Women & Infants Pavilion, you will not find a more beautiful place to have a baby.”

LABOR AND DELIVERYTuomey’s Labor and Delivery Department

(L&D) has eight beautiful, spacious birthing suites with tasteful cabinets that conceal highly advanced delivery equipment, comfortable beds that our pregnant mothers labor and deliver in, and rockers for special moments with newborns. L&D nurses often help deliver multiple births, as well as care for mothers with special health issues like high blood pressure, diabetes and obstetric emergencies. They work closely with nursery staff and jointly undertake continuing ed classes.

We also have an internationally board certified lactation consultant, Amy Chappell, RN. Breastfeeding is a big issue for women, whether they nursed their first baby and are having issues with the next, wanted to breastfeed and had problems, or just want to learn more.

Breastfeeding is a natural process, but there are still hurdles women may face, and Amy helps them make the leap.

JAMES E. BELL JR. MDWOMEN & INFANTS PAVILION

Opened in 2007, the Pavilion is state-of-the-art in every way possible. But more importantly, the building was built to make a woman feel right at home. The 18,000-square-foot center creates a dedicated unit designed to meet the unique needs of our gynecological and OB patients.

It features 24 beautifully appointed and spacious inpatient rooms and its own welcoming, sheltered entrance. The modern room design and selection of furniture create the perfect conditions for in-room treatment, as well as space to accommodate family and friends who want to visit.

“We have a place for our patients like no one else in this area,” said Carla Smith, manager for L&D and the women’s center.

“This Pavilion is beautiful, and with the top-level care you get here – from doctors and nurses – there is absolutely no reason to leave our community. You will not find anything any better – anywhere.”

-- BRENDA P. CHASE

The obstetricians at Tuomey have lots of great things to say about the women’s center, from the well-appointed (and comfy) delivery rooms to the special care offered in our Level II Nursery. But one subject they can’t seem to say enough about is the epidural service that women in labor are “blessed” to have: 24-hour/seven-day-a-week anesthesia available in the Birthing Center.

“You just don’t find this service in many places,” noted Dr. Triz Smith, an obstetrician with Sumter OB/GYN: “An anesthetist on-site, around the clock, dedicated to Labor and Delivery.”

Four certified registered nurse anesthetists comprise the Tuomey OB / CRNA team: Shirley Houser-Stehr, Pamela Thompson-Knight, Michael Sand and Anthony Caballero. They each work seven 24-hour shifts every month, which means that someone’s right there, in the hospital, dedicated solely to the obstetrics units and ready to administer an epidural to a laboring woman at a moment’s notice. And if a woman needs emergency surgery to protect her or the baby, the CRNAs can get the medicine started immediately -- the anesthesiologist is always available and called in for all C-sections, but the team doesn’t have to wait for him to arrive.

“It’s great in an emergency, anytime -- on the weekends, at night, we

can do whatever we need to do quickly because they’re right there,” Smith says.

Thompson-Knight, a retired Navy Reserve captain who’s been part of the Tuomey team for more than a decade, says it’s a symbiotic service: “The laboring patient and their families love it, because once we put an epidural in, we don’t leave the hospital. The (OB) doctors love the continuity of care. The anesthesiologists are always available if we need them, but this way they can focus on the main O.R., which can get so busy.”

The service starts when a woman arrives at the Birthing Center and doesn’t end until her discharge from the hospital. She’s informed of all her pain management choices, and if she chooses an epidural for labor, the CRNAs perform the procedure and manage their pain until after the delivery of the baby. The team also visits the patient before her discharge to go over any questions she may still have.

The CRNAs can conference with doctors 24/7, “which makes for great communication,” Thompson-Knight said. They can convert immediately from a typical laboring epidural to the medication level required for a cesarean section, which results in safer and more efficient

‘Round-the-clock care for laboring patients:

“You will not find a more beautiful place to have a baby”


Sometimes babies are born too early, with special needs or unexpected problems. Our Level II Nursery – the only one in the tri-county area -- can deliver and care for most of these babies, keeping parents close to home and able to be involved at every step.

“Level II” means Tuomey can take care of babies born at 32 weeks and up. The staff provides normal newborn care, of course: answering questions for new moms, offering support for anxious parents, making sure the baby’s doing everything it’s supposed to do before it goes home. But for parents of babies born early or with medical issues, the Nursery

is a godsend. It offers both intermediate and continuing care, with room for 20 babies who may need IV medicines,

oxygen or antibiotics, or a place to transition from an intensive neonatal care setting before going home.

“Tuomey is a great place to have a baby,” says Clinical Manager Barbara Kenawy, an RN certified in neonatal care. “Our nurses are compassionate and caring; they have a real love for babies and families.”

It’s great to have a Level II so close,

Kenawy says, because it means parents of babies who have to stay in the hospital longer don’t have to travel somewhere else for their care. “The baby is here in the community, so Mom and Dad can come and go every day and be there with the baby without having to face a long drive.”

The nurses also educate the parents so they’ll feel more comfortable providing specialized care to their tiny babies. “We can teach them CPR,” Kenawy said. “Or, if the baby is going to need a cardiac monitor or a feeding tube, has had a colostomy or needs oxygen, we can teach the mom and dad how to handle those things at home.”

Occasionally, a baby may need to be transferred to a Level I nursery because of highly complex needs. When they’re more stable, Tuomey provides a great transition.

“They can come back here and continue to grow until they’re ready to go home,” Kenawy said. “That moves them back into the area where their family lives. And we have a sleep room here where the parents can stay with the baby so they can become confident in their skills before they all go home.”

-- TRACI QUINN

Nursery keeps parents & babies close & happy

care of mother and baby during the laboring process. (Because the CRNAs are there the entire time, they’re able to drip the meds continuously so the woman and her baby are getting only what’s needed and only for as long as it’s needed. That’s important, Thompson-Knight explained, because “we don’t know if a woman’s labor is going to be two hours or 20.”)

“The doctors come in for every cesarean section,” she explained. “If it’s a ‘stat’ – if the baby’s in trouble – we call the anesthesiologist immediately, but Tuomey can get to a c-section in record-breaking time because there’s a nurse anesthetist already in-house and we can go ahead and intubate (so) the OB can start the procedure without having to wait.”

The CRNAs are also immediately available for any airway problems a newborn may have.

“What a great job!” Thompson-Knight said. “It can get hectic, and women often come in in pain, but when that epidural does its work, the whole family loves us!”

“This is one of the best jobs I’ve ever had,” she added. “It says something for Tuomey, for our team and our OBs that it even exists. It’s a very positive experience.”

-- TRACI QUINN

Laurie Merchant was born at Tuomey and has had all of her children delivered here -- including the one who was with her in this photo, as she was going over her epidural

options with CRNA Pamela Thompson-Knight.

Moms love Tuomey’s 24-hour CRNA service


When Henry Moses became a surgeon in 1985, even the

most advanced breast cancer treatment was still essentially

“one size fits all” -- everyone got a mastectomy or lymph

node removal; there were no real options for targeted

chemical therapies.

But all women are not the same – they each have

unique needs and issues.

Thankfully, there’s been a “complete paradigm shift”

in the past 25 years, one that includes advances in

technology, medicines and surgery that can give every

individual woman a specific treatment tailored just for her.

And for the team of specialists at Tuomey Healthcare

System who care for these women, it’s a perfect fit.

“We’ve been able to go from a shotgun approach to a targeted approach so that each patient gets the treatment that’s

best suited for her, rather than for some large, heterogeneous group,” Moses said. “There are

probably 100 different pathways a patient can get placed in now to get the most beneficial individualized therapy.”

While Moses says he longs for the day when “there will be no breast surgeons and I’ll be out of a job,” he’s also amazed at the “wonderful success rate, the higher cure rates, the cosmetic results and the fact that we are

leaving patients with much less of a deformity than we did in the past while achieving higher

survival rates.” Fellow Sumter Surgical

Associates partner Dr. Steven Lauzon agrees and says Tuomey in particular is offering some pretty innovative services for women.

“We’re definitely doing cutting-edge work,” Lauzon said. “The standard of care at

Tuomey is what you would find in a large teaching center like Duke

or MUSC. We have exactly what they have for every component:

diagnosis, biopsy, treatment, post-treatment, reconstruction, breast conservation surgery, oncoplastics. We offer all the image-guided needle biopsy capabilities, either ultrasound-guided or stereotactic. We also have an excellent plastic surgeon, so we can do immediate or delayed reconstruction.”

Sumter Surgical partners Drs. Mark Crabbe and Robert “Sonny”

Jones also provide excellent breast care.

“It’s always a team approach here,” Lauzon added. “The surgeons, the medical oncologist, radiation oncologist and a plastic surgeon work well together. We even offer a tumor (review) board that includes (those physicians and) our pathologists and radiologists.”

“We’re fortunate that we have all those specialties represented in one community,” Moses agreed.

TEAMWORK = BETTER OUTCOMES

Lauzon credits plastic surgeon Dr. Kevin Hanz with Tuomey’s ability to offer more complex reconstructives to women who’ve had breast cancers removed. Hanz deflects all credit to the team itself.

“Teamwork is critical in the care of any patient when there’s more than one discipline involved, but particularly in the care of a cancer patient,” Hanz says. It’s important to make sure that a patient who’s already going through a scary and potentially life-changing process isn’t confused by hearing two or three different messages from different doctors.

Recently, a patient developed a cancer in her right breast. Moses and Hanz performed surgeries to remove the cancer and complete an immediate reconstruction.

“Part of the process is that we put in an implant at a later date and do a reduction in the opposite breast” to balance the woman’s physical appearance, Hanz said.

“In the midst of that second surgery, we discovered a second cancer. It’s obviously a difficult time for the patient, but having a close relationship with Henry (Moses) made it easy for me to call and discuss the care of that patient immediately. We were all on the same page.”

He echoed Lauzon’s sentiment that Tuomey “matches the level of care you’d expect from an academic institution.”

“In a smaller community, you could expect a more fragmented approach,” Hanz said. “But at Tuomey, we are able to bring all of it together and offer the kind of unique, multi-disciplinary care you would get at a much larger institution. It’s refreshing that we have that, that everyone makes that conscientious effort to work together and achieve some common goals. It makes the care of the patient that much better.”

WOMEN’S SURGERIES

Breast cancer isn’t the only reason women might need surgery, of course. Sumter Surgical Associates has been highly innovative in several areas, most notably in hand-assisted laparoscopic colon resections. “Only about 10 percent of the surgeons around the country are doing them,” Lauzon said. “We’re on the cutting edge in terms of colon work.”

Even before he arrived at Sumter Surgical in 2006, he said, “these surgeons were some of the first in the country doing the laparoscopic cholecystectomies



(gall bladder removal). Right when that technology came out, they were doing them. That’s a standard of care now, but our guys were on the front line.”

He and others agree that laparoscopic capabilities have revolutionized surgeries.

“It’s about smaller incisions,” Lauzon said. “It’s less invasive.”

It’s drastically reduced recovery time, both in the hospital and at home. “Most of my patients leave on post-op day three or four, versus day six or seven a decade ago,” Lauzon said.

And it’s not just gall bladders anymore. “We can use it to take out spleens, do hernia repairs, bowel resections,” Moses said. “Anything in the abdominal area.”

“We can also do localized (thyroid surgeries) with a much smaller incision; we can send people home the same day,” Lauzon said. “And we’ve converted almost completely to laparoscopic appendectomies.”

TAILOR-MADE TREATMENT

In addition to having a great team, the Tuomey surgeons say technological advances in the field of breast cancer treatment mean great things for women who face the unfortunate diagnosis.

Most of the time, Moses said, “We’re able to do breast-conserving surgery rather than removing the entire breast.” And even if a large section of the breast has to be removed, reconstructive techniques help surgeons preserve the normal shape and contour of the breast.

“We’ve also limited the number of node dissections we have to do by utilizing new technology that identifies

the nodes where the cancer would spread to first,” he said. Basically, “if those are negative, that’s the end of the biopsy. In

the old days, we’d have to take out all the lymph nodes to be sure we got all the cancer, which meant

more pain, more swelling; now, for many patients, we’re able to avoid that.”

Tuomey has state-of-the-art diagnostic options for

women with breast cancer as well, with digital mammography,

high-resolution ultrasound and even breast MRI, a new technology that can pick up

cancers in young women earlier than mammography. Moses said

the MRI is used in women with high-risk features or a family history

of breast cancer to help plan surgical intervention.

In addition, Sumter Surgical utilizes office-based ultrasound technology that

adds tremendously to the care of the breast patient and to a more efficient management plan.

“We’re also providing a more targeted approach in radiation and chemotherapy, and survival rates are improving astronomically,” Moses said. “The medical oncology field is developing specific targeted therapies so that the chemo will attack only the cancer cells. With the new hormonal therapies, it’s just tremendous!”

Dr. Eddie Duffy agreed and acknowledged Tuomey for “continuing to provide physicians with the most updated equipment,” adding, “Soon, we will have capabilities in our radiation oncology department that very few centers in the state will be able to offer.”

“There are still battles left and a lot of research to be done,” Moses said, “but the overall survival rate is quoted at over 90% for women diagnosed with breast cancer today.”

Q. This issue of LifeTimes is all about women’s healthcare, showcasing some of the wonderful services offered to women here at Tuomey and highlighting the fact that there’s no need to leave town for your healthcare. So what are some of the services that you offer at Sumter Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery?

The office is set up to address both cosmetic and reconstructive concerns of patients. We are able to offer all of the amenities one would expect to find in a much larger city. On the cosmetic side, we offer both surgical and non-surgical services. Many women are interested in low-cost, minimal downtime procedures that may provide some benefit before or in lieu of surgery. We offer chemical peels, Botox, facial fillers such as Juvederm and Radiesse, as well as a prescription line of skin care. Of course, many patients will find that surgery is their best option for the results that they seek. I offer a complete line of aesthetic surgical services including facial rejuvenation (face and neck lifts, eyelid surgery, nose surgery (rhinoplasty), chin implants/

correction), breast enhancement and/or lifts, tummy tucks (abdominoplasty), “mommy makeovers,” arm and thigh lifts, as well as buttock augmentation and/or lifts.

Q. Kevin, we understand one of your specialties is reconstruction after breast cancer surgery. What are the things that a patient should ask when she is looking for a plastic surgeon for this type of case?

Breast reconstruction can be a very challenging undertaking with many variables. It is important for a patient to be aware that there are always multiple options available. Often, patients are instructed about only one particular option; others are not even addressed. Patients have also been told that they’re not a candidate for a particular type of procedure. While this may be true, it is important to ask your surgeon to discuss all of your options.

I attempt to educate patients about breast reconstruction that involves the use of an implant, but also about what

Dr. Kevin Hanz is a plastic surgeon and Carla Foley is a nurse practitioner. Together, they are bringing the best services possible to the people in our community.

Sumter Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery is located on the Tuomey campus.


is termed autologous reconstruction. In the latter option, we use a patient’s own native tissue to reconstruct one or both breasts. Many surgeons who may not have the formal training to perform these types of procedures simply gloss over this option.

Q. Carla, tell us a little bit about yourself and what you bring to the practice.

My experience is in the realm of skin cancer and cutaneous malignancies. I spent eight years in

Dallas working with a board certified dermatologist and later with a

plastic surgeon who specializes in skin cancer. I offer a

great deal of experience at recognizing skin cancer and other cutaneous lesions. We offer skin screenings to patients on an annual basis (more frequently, when necessary). This

follows with the recommendations

from the Skin Cancer Foundation. I will also perform formal excisions, subsequent repairs and assist Dr. Hanz in more complex surgical cases.

Q. We all want to look younger and

feel better. What are some minor procedures

that slow the aging process some?

Of course, the most important thing that any of us can do to look and feel young is to minimize our sun exposure over time. Sun damage accelerates

the aging process and will dramatically change the skin’s natural properties such as elasticity.

An entire world of non-surgical treatment options exist for today’s consumer. A facial filler is designed to fill in moderate to deep facial rhytids (wrinkles). This may mask the initial signs of aging and delay more involved surgical procedures. Similar products can be used to camouflage bags under the eyes, provide additional volume to the lips or fill in small facial scars. Chemical peels and skin care products exist to reverse sun damage and improve the overall appearance of the skin. These treatments can eliminate fine lines and wrinkles as well as remove minor blemishes such as brown spots (dyschromia). Finally, Botox is a neurotoxin that can be used to temporarily eliminate lines and wrinkles.

Q. Are there any regular visits all women should have? For instance, having our skin checked for sun damage or moles?

The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends that all patients undergo a full body screening annually to examine for suspicious lesions and early signs of skin malignancy. Following the diagnosis of a skin malignancy, a patient may require more frequent visits.

Q. Is there anything else about your practice that you’d like to tell us? What makes it special?

The practice is able to deliver world-class care with hometown compassion and care. I hope that patients always feel as if they are working with folks who truly care and are always available to meet their medical needs.

-- BRENDA P. CHASE


16 LifeTimes | Spring 2011

THE BOUTIQUE … From Tuomey with Love

On June 22, The Tuomey Foundation was happy to invite all Tuomey Healthcare System employees to a sneak peak at our new cancer resource center, “The Boutique … From Tuomey with Love.” Although the boutique wasn’t finished, employees were able to see their vision unfolding. The 2010 Employee Campaign, “We are Tuomey, and we are taking it all the way,” raised over $170,000 to build and support a cancer resource center on the second floor of Medical Office Building One. This cancer resource center contains support materials and information for cancer patients and their families, wigs, wig-care products, breast prosthetics, bras, creams, lotions, turbans, hats, scarves and other products that are deemed helpful during the fight against cancer. The

purpose is to ensure those in our community who are battling cancer are able to receive products they may not otherwise be able to afford. We encourage everyone to visit “The Boutique … From Tuomey with Love.” Thanks again for all of your support to The Tuomey Foundation.

2011 EMPLOYEE CAMPAIGNThe theme of this year’s Employee Campaign – which ran from July 26 through Aug. 2 – was “Taking Steps to a Healthier Tuomey.” We raised money for three projects, benefiting not only our employees but our community as well. First, we plan to complete the covered walkways on our main campus. This next phase will include the sidewalk in front of Medical Office Building Two, and take the covered walkway to Hampton Avenue at the crosswalk to the employee parking garage. Next, we will improve the equipment in the Health Guides exercise room. For years, our employees have been asking for a free-standing exercise facility to benefit them and the community; this is the first step toward that dream of a Tuomey Employee Fitness Center. And last, we will be building walking trails on and around our campus and throughout the downtown area. The city has agreed to aid us with signage downtown to include maps of our walking trails and distance measurements for each trail. This is in keeping with South Carolina hospitals throughout our state to establish a Culture of Wellness and provide leadership within our healthcare industry, to our local business partners and our community. Please join us in supporting these causes and help us create a healthier Tuomey and a healthier Sumter. (See pictures of the Employee Campaign on Pg. 20)

WOMEN OF TUOMEY FALL EVENTFriday, October 21

After a successful spring event, The Women of Tuomey committee is now making plans for a fabulous fall event.

The TuomeyFoundation JEFF FAW


“Bags, Bling and Baubles” will take place on Friday, Oct. 21, in Conference Rooms 1, 2 and 3. This event will bring women together to enjoy a silent auction on new or “like new” designer handbags and nice costume jewelry. A wonderful lunch will be provided. Information will be provided on numerous women’s issues. All proceeds from this event will benefit “The Boutique ... From Tuomey With Love,” Tuomey’s cancer resource center. There are sponsorship opportunities available. For more information about this event, purchasing tickets, or sponsorships, please call (803) 774-9014. EMPLOYEE SCHOLARSHIPThe Scholarship Fund was created in 2000 by employees who wanted to help Tuomey families with their educational goals – they raised approximately $100,000. Using the interest on that fund, The Tuomey Foundation began awarding scholarships in 2003 to Tuomey employees, immediate family members of employees and active volunteers of Tuomey Healthcare System who have at least 250 accumulated hours of volunteer service. To date, we have awarded 36 scholarships totaling $18,000. Awards are given based on academic performance and community service, and can be awarded to students who have been accepted to or are currently enrolled in courses of higher education. Every year, a committee of employees volunteer their time to select a few deserving recipients out of numerous applicants. On Aug. 4, the following individuals were presented with a

$500 check and a certificate from the Foundation:

2011EMPLOYEE SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS

GOLF CLASSICThe Thirteenth Annual Tuomey Foundation Golf Classic was once again an enormous success. In spite of the incredible downpours, the golfers endured; all were good sports and seemed to have a great time. What has become the most anticipated tournament in Sumter, and perhaps the state, proved to be a most memorable event. Thirty teams began the morning with a shotgun start, and it culminated with an awards luncheon featuring team and individual prizes. We were also very pleased to have J.R. Berry from WLTX News 19 playing in our tournament. He did a news story about our tournament and what the proceeds are used for. Tommy “Two Gloves” Gainey, Bishopville native and professional golfer, provided an autographed Callaway golf bag and gloves for a giveaway.The Tuomey Foundation would like to thank the Tuomey Employee Golf Committee for all of their hard work. This committee is the backbone for organizing this undertaking. Each employee volunteers his or her time on top of the duties they perform day in and day out at the hospital.Their efforts have certainly paid off as we grossed well over $52,000 this year for our Community Outreach Endowment. This fund allows the Foundation to support programs and causes supported by Tuomey outside the walls of the hospital.In fact, The Tuomey Foundation Golf Classic has netted over $400,000 since its inception. We look forward to teeing it up once again next year, and invite you to please join us.

Mr. Matthew BordelonCentral Carolina Technical College

Ms. Billie Jean ParnellSouth University

Miss Caitlyn Ross (Not Pictured)Clemson University

Ms. Kendra SimmonsSouth University

CAMP SCAMP

Contributions:Junior Welfare League of Sumter, SC

CARE REACH

Contributions:Susan Scouten

CHAPLAINCY

Contributions:Sumter County Ministers Association

DOCTOR’S DAY

Honorary Gifts:

Dr. Billy W. ClowneyKimberly J. Price

Dr. E. MacDonald DuBose, Jr.Kimberly J. Price

Dr. Mayes M. DuBoseKimberly J. Price

Catherine E. RabonKimberly J. Price

DUKE ENDOWMENT

Contributions:The Duke Endowment

ENDOWMENT

Contributions:Elaine D. Korn Charitable TrustMemorials:

Dr. Lea B. GivensElizabeth B. Tiller

HOSPICE

Contributions:VPS Convenience Store GroupMaureen C. Zraik

Honorary Gifts:

Rev. Betty J. DraytonWilliam L. Bowers

Doris F. BrooksWilliam L. Bowers

Deborah EmbryWilliam L. Bowers

Dorothy P. RichburgWilliam L. Bowers

Judith TylWilliam L. Bowers

Charles A. WilliamsWilliam L. Bowers

Linda G. WindleyWilliam L. Bowers

Memorials:

Kathryn A. BowersWilliam L. BowersClarendon County Republic PartyBarbara and Richard CochranJeanne and Jeff FawFred GoMary and James GoebelJoan and Walter GoseMary Aguzzi and Dick HicksonJoanne and Ed KirbyMr. and Mrs. Denis S. Longo

Eileen and Jim MarkwoodJean and George OlszykDottie and John PalyraElizabeth and Norman SeftonAnn and George StantonBarbara C. Swisk

Dennis W. BryantJudy Thompson-PhillipsUSDA Rural Development Friendship FundUSDA Rural Development RUS and CF Staff

Members

Pat ChapmanCleo G. JacksonKathryn J. Somers

Franklin Clyde CokerBible Scouts Sunday School Class of

Aldersgate United Methodist ChurchThe Best FamilyBecky GreenHelga and Billy HamlinThe Harris B. Hennessee Breakfast ClubPalmetto Health Payroll DepartmentLaura and John RollinsonCarol and Sam ShirahMary P. VarnadoreRonald D. Wilson

Dr. Lea B. GivensJ. Grady LocklearTuomey Home Services Staff

Anne G. GreeneJ. Grady Locklear

Rena GriffinCleo G. Jackson

Joe Chandler KirvenJ. Grady Locklear

Mary M. KrupaSue and Rick GrotzingerCol. (Ret.) and Mrs. William J. HentgesJim KrumpaDeborah Lisinski and Family

Donald H. LangleyDr. and Mrs. Laurie N. Smith

Harry PritchardJackie and Tom Olsen

DR. AND MRS. WENDELL M. LEVI, JR. NURSING SCHOLARSHIP

Memorials:

Dr. Lea B. GivensDr. and Mrs. William R. Haynie

NURSERY

Contributions:Our 365

TUOMEY PRIDE

Contributions:Dr. and Mrs. Philip H. BrandtThe Citizens BankPhilip L. EdwardsGHA Technologies, Inc.Sheri Watkins and Tom GreenmanMr. and Mrs. Ben GriffithAnn and Paul JohnsonJunior Welfare League of Sumter, SCMr. and Mrs. André G. McBrideDr. and Mrs. Wilmot S. McCollough, III

Nexsen Pruet, LLCDr. and Mrs. Osmar A. PinillaMr. and Mrs. William R. RenwickMr. and Mrs. Joe SingletonDr. and Mrs. Laurie N. Smith

UNRESTRICTED

Contributions:Randa Carole DuBoseDr. and Mrs. William A. KingDr. and Mrs. Henry P. MosesDr. Cynthia S. ReeseJudy and Harles RobertsMr. and Mrs. Joseph TobiereVPS Convenience Store Group

Honorary Gifts:

George W. RikardGreenhouse Associates

Dr. Kurt T. StroebelNick G. Harris

Dr. and Mrs. William F. (Ted) Young

Dr. and Mrs. Donald E. Harrop

Memorials:

Virginia R. AndrewsDr. and Mrs. Philip H. BrandtDr. and Mrs. William F. (Ted) Young

Patrick L. BatemanDr. and Mrs. Laurie N. Smith

Theodora T. BaxterMurphy Tuomey Wilson

Kathryn A. BowersSunshine Committee of Wyboo Plantation

THE TUOMEY FOUNDATION

FESTIVAL OF TREES CIRCLE OF LIGHTS

C O N T R I B U T O R S T OJUNE | JULY | AUGUST 201 1

18 LifeTimes | Spring 2011

It’s not too late to sign up as a sponsor or decorator for The 10th Annual Festival of Trees! The Festival of Trees has become a holiday tradition in our community and continues to raise awareness for Tuomey Hospice Services. A steering committee, led by Dr. J. Grady Locklear, has been working diligently in preparation of creating this winter wonderland. We are always blown away by the businesses and individuals that come forward each year to ensure a memorable event. Many of these

businesses choose to decorate their trees themselves, while others want a decorator assigned to them. We have been so blessed to have the very best in tree décor brought to you by antique dealers, churches and schools -- just to name a few.And through the annual Circle of Lights, you can purchase lights in memory of a loved one, lights that will adorn the main tree on display each year atop the Wishing Well, greeting visitors as they come into the hospital. This tree will be lit on

Thursday, Dec. 1, officially beginning the Festival of Trees season.

If you would like to receive more information about these or other activities, please don’t hesitate to call our office at 774-9014 or visit our website at www.tuomeyfoundation.com.

You now have several ways to keep up with The Tuomey Foundation. Please look for us on Facebook and Twitter (@TuomeyFound)!

Ronald CartyJeanne and Jeff FawTuomey Healthcare System Administration

James DancyTuomey Healthcare System Administration

Elizabeth DavisCorliss B. Barrett

Grady L. FincherDr. and Mrs. Philip H. Brandt

Ethylene C. FinleyDr. and Mrs. Philip H. Brandt

Charlene GeddingsJackie M. Moore

Dr. Lea B. GivensPatricia L. BarnettGloria and Robert BatemanPat and Dan BermanDr. Mary Elizabeth BlanchardDr. and Mrs. Thomas O. Bowen, Jr.Dr. and Mrs. Philip H. BrandtMr. and Mrs. Ernie BrownRuth Ann BrownLiz and Joe BurnetteSusan and Jay CoxEdna L. DavisMyrna H. DixonMr. and Mrs. Arthur DwightMr. and Mrs. Coles DwightF. Marion DwightTom EdensJeanne and Jeff FawKay N. FortAnn and Gardner GoreBeverly and Richard GulledgeMr. and Mrs. Ansley Hurst, Jr.

Frances T. KayBecky and Dick LeeMr. and Mrs. J. T. MitchumDebbie and Jimmy MixonMarjorie H. MontalbanoBonnie and Perry Moses, IIIMr. and Mrs. Robert A. MosesJackie and Tom OlsenPrescriptions Inc.Mr. and Mrs. Bobby B. RabonMr. and Mrs. Maurice Perry RandleDr. and Mrs. Ken RosefieldKathryn RosenGerona SandersRamon Schwartz, Jr.Joel StoudenmireDr. and Mrs. Michael S. ToweryTuomey Healthcare System AdministrationDr. and Mrs. Charles H. White, Jr.Mr. and Murl A. White, Jr.Chris Edens and Mike WiggersHarriett and Blake WilliamsHobbie and Greg WilliamsDr. and Mrs. William F. (Ted) YoungMary Berry and Philip Wittenberg

Doris S. GoogeJeanne and Jeff Faw

Anne G. GreeneDr. and Mrs. Philip H. BrandtLiz and Joe BurnetteDr. and Mrs. William F. (Ted) Young

Evelyn F. HallJeanne and Jeff Faw

James J. HatfieldDr. and Mrs. Philip H. Brandt

Phillip T. (Tommy) HawkinsDr. and Mrs. Philip H. BrandtJeanne and Jeff Faw

Warren A. Henderson, Sr.Dr. and Mrs. Philip H. Brandt

Venara A. HewittDr. and Mrs. Philip H. Brandt

Nancy H. HoarDr. and Mrs. Philip H. Brandt

Stevenson H. KayDr. and Mrs. Philip H. Brandt

George C. Kennedy, Jr.Dr. and Mrs. Laurie N. Smith

Joe C. KirvenDr. and Mrs. Philip H. BrandtDr. and Mrs. William F. (Ted) Young

Joseph T. McElveen, Sr.Dr. and Mrs. Philip H. Brandt

Ruby MixonDr. and Mrs. Philip H. Brandt

Alfred W. Murrell, Jr.Jeanne and Jeff Faw

Minnie B. RogersDr. and Mrs. Philip H. Brandt

Elizabeth M. SmithJeanne and Jeff Faw

Myra L. SmithDr. and Mrs. William F. (Ted) Young

Anita J. SwygertDr. and Mrs. Philip H. Brandt

R. Marshall TalleyDr. and Mrs. Philip H. Brandt

T. Douglas Tuomey, Jr.Murphy Tuomey Wilson

Melvin E. Williams, Sr.Dr. and Mrs. Philip H. Brandt

JEANNE C. WATSON ONCOLOGY ENDOWMENT

Memorials:

Virginia R. AndrewsMichael C. Watson

William J. ElliottMichael C. Watson

Dr. Lea B. GivensShirley and Nick Fowler

Phillip T. (Tommy) HawkinsMichael C. Watson

Joseph T. McElveen, Sr.Ann and Duane ClarkJeanne and Jeff FawMichael C. WatsonMr. and Mrs. Richard M. White, Jr.

Alfred W. Murrell, Jr.Michael C. Watson

Johnny P. Payne, Sr.Kate McElveen

Frances L. SchwabenbauerKen BeasleyBill BoatmanCathy J. BoyerNadine BoyerDorothy R. BriceMr. and Mrs. Thomas W. DurginRobin and Corie RashScott Law Firm

R. Marshall TalleyMichael C. Watson

Jeanne C. WatsonCharles W. Veatch

W. Burke Watson, Sr.Ann and Duane ClarkCharles W. Veatch

CHARLES H. WHITE, SR. CARDIAC ENDOWMENT

Memorials:

Virginia R. AndrewsMr. and Mrs. Richard M. White, Jr.

Warren A. Henderson, Sr.Shirley and Nick Fowler

Elizabeth M. SmithDebbie and Jimmy Mixon

WIG BOUTIQUE

Contributions:Joyce W. BigbieCeleste F. BlackmonDeborah ChazenShirley M. Kolb

Memorials:

Dr. Lea B. GivensShirley M. Kolb


Should you notice an error or omission, please accept our apology and notify The Tuomey Foundation at (803) 774-9014.


UPCOMINGEVENTS

BAGS, BLING AND BAUBLESOctober 21, 2011

a Coming this fall the Women of Tuomey will enjoy a silent auction on new or “like new” designer handbags and nice costume jewelry. A wonderful lunch will be provided. All proceeds will benefit breast cancer awareness. For more information, or to purchase tickets, please call (803) 774-9014.

FESTIVAL OF TREESSPONSORSHIP DEADLINE November 21, 2011

a This December 1st we celebrate the annual Festival of Trees in the lobby of Tuomey Regional Medical Center. If you would like to sponsor a tree please contact the Tuomey Founation at (803) 774-9014.

MORE EVENTS & CALENDARMonthly

a For more events, a full calendar and a complete listing of the educational classes offered by Tuomey — from baby basics to joint camp, from Safe Sitters to support groups — please visit our website:www.tuomey.com.

TUOMEY NIGHTwith the P15’s

‘11 EMPLOYEECAMPAIGN

129 N. Washington St.Sumter, SC 29150www.tuomey.com

lifetimes: fall 2011

Documents

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issue of lifetimes

tuomey healthcare systemdin

issue fall

community service

community hospital

care of women

new board membersmeet