Press Release Archive

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December 20, 2002 : HOSPITAL RECRUITS VOLUNTEERS FOR GIFT SHOP

Helen Hayes Hospital in West Haverstraw recently expanded its Gift Shop, has opening up new volunteer opportunities. Volunteers are being recruited to assist with selling, stocking and displaying merchandise, as well as staffing the shop. Flexible hours are available and no previous retail experience is required. Gift Shop volunteers enjoy a pleasant environment while contributing a valuable service to hospital patients. Volunteers receive a full orientation to the hospital and the Gift Shop.

Helen Hayes Hospital is the state’s largest physical rehabilitation hospital, helping individuals recover from traumatic injuries and disabling diseases.

For additional information on the Helen Hayes Hospital Gift Shop, or to volunteer, call 845-786-4365.

December 19, 2002: HOSPITAL GIFT SHOP EXPANSION

Helen Hayes Hospital in West Haverstraw recently renovated and enlarged its Gift Shop, which is located off the hospital’s Atrium. The shop, which is open to the public, features an expanded selection of merchandise that is displayed in an accessible and inviting atmosphere.

The Gift Shop stocks an array of merchandise to appeal to patients, staff, visitors and the general public. Decorative picture frames, trendy jewelry and watches, fashionable scarves and scented candles and soaps are just a sampling of the items available. The shop also sells collectibles, such as Bernstein Bears, dolls and Ty Beannie Babies and their accessories. A selection of fun and inexpensive children’s toys is always in stock, along with an array of charming gift items. The shop also specializes in an assortment of healthcare and adaptive equipment, which has been selected by hospital therapists. Included are heating pads, neck rolls, exercise weights, adaptive utensils and specialized items for users of wheelchairs and walkers

The Gift Shop is open seven days a week and is operated by the Helen Hayes Hospital Volunteer Corps. All proceeds go to support patient programs, services and equipment at the physical rehabilitation hospital.

December 4, 2002: REHABILITATION HOSPITAL OPENS NEW PROSTHETIC ORTHOTIC OFFICE

Helen Hayes Hospital has announced the opening of a new satellite office of its Prosthetic Orthotic Center. The new office is located at One Webster Avenue, in the Atrium Building of the St. Francis Hospital campus in Poughkeepsie.

The hospital’s main Prosthetic Orthotic Center office, located in the rehabilitation hospital in West Haverstraw, has long served patients from throughout the metropolitan region. The new satellite office provides convenient service to patients in the Dutchess, Ulster and Orange County region and offers comprehensive prosthetic and orthotic services to both adults and children. It is staffed by American Board for Certification (ABC) prosthetists and orthotists with many years of experience.

The Center provides a full range of evaluation, fabrication, fitting and follow-up services, including extensive training and education in the proper use and care of the new prosthesis or orthosis. The need for a prosthetic or orthotic device may arise from a traumatic injury, congenital condition or disabling illness, such as: amputation; cerebral palsy; multiple sclerosis; muscular dystrophy; spinal bifida or scoliosis; spinal cord or sports related injury. Based on a physician’s referral, devices are customized to meet the patient’s individual needs, including sports knee bracing, scoliosis bracing, foot orthoses and state-of-the-art prostheses. Special devices for leisure and competitive sports and activities, such as running, golfing and basketball, can also be customized.

The satellite office offers comfortable and private fitting rooms and has direct access to the sophisticated fabrication technology available within the hospital, including a comprehensive CAD-CAM system. For further information, or to schedule an appointment, call 845-471-3703.

Helen Hayes Hospital is the state’s largest physical rehabilitation hospital, offering a comprehensive array of inpatient, outpatient and specialty rehabilitation services to help individuals who have sustained traumatic injuries or who have chronic debilitating diseases. The hospital is operated by the New York State Department of Health and is affiliated with the New York Presbyterian Healthcare System and the Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons.

November 25, 2002: REHABILITATION HOSPITAL APPOINTS MEDICAL DIRECTOR

John Pellicone, M.D. has been appointed Medical Director at Helen Hayes Hospital in West Haverstraw, according to Magdalena Ramirez, Chief Executive Officer.

A graduate of Dartmouth College, Dr. Pellicone received his medical degree from the Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons. He completed a residency in internal medicine at Montefiore Medical Center and a pulmonary fellowship at New York University, Bellevue Chest Service and is board certified in internal medicine, pulmonary medicine and critical care medicine.

Dr. Pellicone joined the staff of Helen Hayes Hospital in 1989 and has served as Director of Pulmonary Rehabilitation and the Ventilator Weaning program. He is an assistant clinical professor of medicine and Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons. In addition, he serves as the Medical Director and Chief of Medicine at Nyack Hospital.

"We are very pleased to have Dr. Pellicone assume the position of medical director," says Ms. Ramirez. "As an active member of the medical staff here at Helen Hayes, he has been instrumental in providing the leadership to expand and enrich the hospital’s clinical programs. Dr. Pellicone is dedicated to helping our patients make the fullest possible recovery through rehabilitation and will work to continue to enhance the reputation of Helen Hayes Hospital as a nationally renowned medical rehabilitation center of excellence."

Dr. Pellicone resides with his wife and two sons in New City, New York.

Helen Hayes Hospital is the state’s largest physical rehabilitation hospital, offering a comprehensive array of inpatient, outpatient and specialty rehabilitation services to help individuals who have sustained traumatic injuries or who have chronic debilitating diseases. The hospital is operated by the New York State Department of Health and is affiliated with New York Presbyterian Healthcare System and the Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons.

November 22, 2002: HOSPITAL TO HOST EXHIBIT OF UNIQUE MASKS

Helen Hayes Hospital in West Haverstraw is hosting an exhibit, "The Many Faces of Sass," a collection of one-of-a-kind masks. The exhibit will be on view in the hospital’s Atrium from December 3, 2002 through January 5, 2003.

The papier-mache masks, which are created by Harvey Sassower, are depictions of everyday people, with a touch of whimsy. "I tried making Egyptian, Aztec and African masks, but I find that nothing excites me more than the faces of everyday people going about their business," says Mr. Sassower. The exhibit will include masks of an angel, nurse, chef, football player, and others. The masks can either be hung on a wall as a piece of art, or placed on the head for fun.

Mr. Sassower, a resident of Fort Lee, New Jersey, has worked for a number of New York City advertising agencies developing both television and print ad campaigns. He recently started creating the masks as a way of expressing his creativity.

The exhibit in the Atrium of the physical rehabilitation hospital is open to the public on a daily basis and is free of charge. For additional information, call the Public Relations Office at 845-786-4225.

October 8, 2002: HOSPITAL TO HOST ART EXHIBIT

Helen Hayes Hospital in West Haverstraw is hosting an exhibit by the artist John Creagh. The exhibit will be on view in the hospital’s Atrium from October 18 through December 2, 2002.

Mr. Creagh is displaying a collection of paintings in various media, including acrylics, pastels and watercolors, along with a series of prints. The collection includes an array of landscapes from across the Hudson Valley, as well as from recent travels to California and Italy.

Mr. Creagh has received widespread recognition for his work which he has exhibited at galleries throughout the metropolitan area. He studied at the Art Students League and received his Masters in Fine Arts from Lehman College of the City University of New York. In addition, he teaches at Westchester Community College Art Workshop in Peekskill, New York. Mr. Creagh is a resident of Warwick, New York.

"Having had the pleasure to paint Helen Hayes MacArthur’s Nyack home "Pretty Penny" and present it to her many years ago, it is a pleasure now to exhibit my work at the hospital which bears her name,’" says Mr. Creagh.

The exhibit in the Atrium of the physical rehabilitation hospital is open to the public on a daily basis and is free of charge. For additional information, call the Public Relations Office at 786-4225.

September 30, 2002: HOSPITAL SEEKS VOLUNTEERS FOR OSTEOPOROSIS RESEARCH STUDY

The Helen Hayes Hospital Clinical Research Center in West Haverstraw is currently recruiting women to participate in a research study examining new ways to treat osteoporosis.

To be eligible for the study, a woman must be postmenopausal, currently being treated with EVISTA, and in general good health. Individuals who qualify and participate in the study will receive free bone density testing for osteoporosis, free calcium supplements, free blood work and other related medical care, possible investigational medication while remaining on EVISTA, and an opportunity to learn more about bone health.

Osteoporosis is a serious health concern worldwide. It is a preventable disease which causes weakening of the bones and a loss of bone mass, resulting in fractures and disability. The disease is expected to affect one in every two women.

For more information about the study, please call Nancy Barbuto, R.N. at (845) 786-4804.

September 24, 2002: HELEN HAYES HOSPITAL RECEIVES ACCREDITATION FROM JOINT COMMISSION

Helen Hayes Hospital in West Haverstraw has received Accreditation from the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations as a result of its demonstrated compliance with the Joint Commission’s nationally recognized health care standards.

The Joint Commission’s on-site survey of the hospital took place this summer. Along with a thorough inspection of the physical facility, surveyors reviewed the quality of patient care and staffing and interviewed patients and staff. Evaluating the hospital’s overall performance against Joint Commission standards, the surveyors awarded the hospital a score of 96 out of a possible 100 points.

"Above all, the national standards are intended to stimulate continuous, systematic and organization-wide improvement in an organization’s performance and the outcomes of care," says Russell P. Massaro, M.D., executive vice president, Accreditation Operations, Joint Commission. "The community should be proud that Helen Hayes Hospital is focusing on the most challenging goal – to continuously raise quality and safety to higher levels." Formed in 1951, the Joint Commission is an independent organization dedicated to improving the quality of the nation’s healthcare through voluntary accreditation.

Helen Hayes Hospital is the largest and most comprehensive physical rehabilitation hospital in New York State, attracting patients from the entire New York metropolitan and Hudson Valley regions. It provides both inpatient and outpatient care to individuals recovering from traumatic injuries and chronic illnesses, including stroke, spinal cord and head injuries, neurological and orthopedic disorders and cardiac and pulmonary conditions. Specialized services include a Prosthetic Orthotic Center, Center for Rehabilitation Technology, Osteoporosis Center and a new Transitional Rehabilitation Center for traumatic brain injury.

"Accreditation is a voluntary process," states Magdalena Ramirez, Helen Hayes Hospital’s Chief Executive Officer, "but one that we welcome as a continual quality improvement mechanism. As a truly comprehensive center specializing exclusively in physical rehabilitation, our medical, nursing and therapeutic staff have access to the latest equipment, enabling them to provide exceptional patient care, and helping our patients to regain functioning and mobility and to return home and resume their lives. Helen Hayes regularly achieves some of the nation’s highest patient satisfaction and patient outcome scores. Receiving this excellent score in our Accreditation is another measure of our excellence as a premier provider of physical rehabilitation care and reflects our commitment to our patients."

September 24, 2002: HOSPITAL GALA SCHEDULED

The annual Helen Hayes Hospital Gala Banquet, a benefit for the physical rehabilitation hospital in West Haverstraw, will be held on Saturday, November 2, 2002 at the Pearl River Hilton in Pearl River, New York. Sponsored by the Helen Hayes Hospital Foundation, this year’s event will honor two individuals who help others live their life to the fullest potential.

Receiving the Helen Hayes MacArthur Award will be the actor Aidan Quinn and Rockland County activist and philanthropist Tess McCormack-Raso. The actor Alan Ruck, who is a former hospital patient and recently completed a six-year run on ABC TV’s "Spin City," will serve as the evening’s guest host.

The Gala will begin with a cocktail reception at 7:00 p.m., followed by dinner at 8:00 p.m. The theme of this year’s event, "New York State of Mind," celebrates the magnificence and indomitable spirit of the great Empire State. The event will include an array of New York themes, as well as live music and a silent auction.

Proceeds from this year's Gala will benefit the hospital’s Wheels in Motion program. This important initiative is the key to enabling patients to become mobile and independent, an ultimate goal of physical rehabilitation. Wheels in Motion is dedicated to maintaining and updating the hospital’s extensive fleet of wheelchairs, which requires significant investments in new wheelchairs, both manual designs and high-tech electric models, replacement parts and the latest technology.

The Gala is held annually to honor the achievements of individuals who help and inspire other people to live their lives to their fullest potential. This commitment is shared by the staff of Helen Hayes Hospital, who work each day toward the singular goal of helping patients achieve maximum independence. The Award was established by the Helen Hayes Hospital Foundation to honor the hospital’s namesake, First Lady of the American Theater Helen Hayes MacArthur. Past recipients include Governor George Pataki, Christopher Reeve, Rosie O’Donnell, Lily Tomlin, Arthur Ashe, John Hockenberry, and Edward James Olmos.

The Gala is the Foundation’s major fund-raising event. Tickets are $250 and opportunities for sponsorships and advertising space in the Journal are still available. For additional information about the Gala, contact the Helen Hayes Hospital Foundation Office at 845-786-4365.

August 26, 2002: NEW MEMBERS APPOINTED TO HOSPITAL BOARD

Magdalena Ramirez, Chief Executive Officer of Helen Hayes Hospital in West Haverstraw, has announced the appointment by Governor George Pataki of four new members to the physical rehabilitation hospital’s Board of Visitors.

Claire Dayton of Greenfield Center, New York has been appointed to a four-year term. A registered nurse, Ms. Dayton most recently served as a Health Care Coordinator of the Center for the Disabled in Albany, overseeing the care of individuals with disabilities. Prior to that, she served in various nursing capacities for the Albany County Association for Retarded Citizens and as an Assistant Head Nurse and Research Associate at Albany Medical College. Ms. Dayton owns and trained an internationally licensed Therapy Dog.

Patricia Ann Norris-McDonald of Malverne, New York has been appointed to a three-year term. Ms McDonald has served as a Trustee of the Village of Malverne for six years. The recipient of numerous awards and honors, including the St. John’s University President’s Medal, Ms. McDonald is very knowledgeable in the affairs of individuals with disabilities. Her husband, New York City Police Officer Stephen McDonald, was paralyzed in the line of duty.

Ann C. O'Sullivan of Stony Point, New York has been appointed to a term of two years. Ms. O'Sullivan is First Assistant to Governor Pataki, and additionally serves as his Director of Special Events. She serves as a Commissioner of the Palisades Interstate Park Commission and previously served as a member of the Rockland County Legislature and the Stony Point Town Board.

Martin C. Wortendyke of Upper Nyack, New York has been appointed to a five-year term. He is the owner of Cal Mart Enterprises, Inc., one of the region’s largest construction firms, and is also the owner of the West Nyack Car Wash and the Wortendyke Brothers Realty Company. A native of Rockland County, Mr. Wortendyke is very active in community affairs.

"We are extremely pleased to welcome the Governor’s appointments to the Board," states Ms. Ramirez. "We also wish to recognize the outstanding contributions of Jo-Ann Chirico and John Gillespie, who leave the board following many years of dedicated service to the hospital."

Helen Hayes Hospital is the largest and most comprehensive physical rehabilitation hospital in New York State, helping to restore mobility and independence to individuals with physical disabilities and chronic disabling diseases. The hospital is operated by the New York State Department of Health and is affiliated with NewYork-Presbyterian Healthcare.

August 16, 2002: HOSPITAL AND HAVERSTRAW TEAM UP TO MAKE GOLF ACCESSIBLE TO ALL
Helen Hayes Hospital presents Phillip J. Rotella Golf Course with Single Rider Cart

Helen Hayes Hospital, located in West Haverstraw, recently presented the Town of Haverstraw with a Golf Xpress single rider cart to use on its town course, the Phillip J. Rotella Golf Course in Haverstraw.

A single rider cart is a specially equipped golf cart that allows a golfer with a disability to play seated or standing, directly from the cart. It can be driven right on to the green. The carts, which are gaining popularity at courses across the country, enable individuals of all abilities to enjoy the game of golf.

The presentation of the cart was made possible through the physical rehabilitation hospital’s GolfAbility program. The program, which debuted this spring, was created through a $31,000 grant to the Helen Hayes Hospital Foundation from The United States Golf Association (USGA) for the development of a new adaptive golf program. The grant funded the construction of a 1300 square foot putting green with six cups and three netted tee areas on the hospital grounds, along with the purchase of adaptive golf equipment, including clubs and several single rider carts. The grant also pays for a PGA or LPGA pro to run adaptive golf workshops, where participants learn to use the equipment and specially designed carts.

GolfAbility is an excellent opportunity for anyone with a disability, including individuals with a spinal cord injury, stroke or arthritis, to learn how to play golf. It is open to individuals who may have played prior to acquiring a disability, or individuals who are new to the sport.

"A long-term goal of GolfAbility is to have accessible public courses throughout the tri-state area, where individuals who may have attended GolfAbility workshops can play," explains Bert Rappaport, the hospital’s Director of Therapeutic Recreation and coordinator of the program. "On behalf of the Helen Hayes Hospital Foundation, we are very proud to be able to present this single rider cart to the Town of Haverstraw, enabling local residents of all abilities to enjoy the game of golf."

Presently, the Phillip J. Rotella Golf Course and the Rockland Lake North Championship Course are the only courses in Rockland County to have this type of cart available. Golfers are asked to reserve the cart when they schedule their golf game.

August 10, 2002: HOSPITAL TO HOST ART EXHIBIT

Helen Hayes Hospital in West Haverstraw is hosting an exhibit by two Hudson Valley artists. The exhibit will be on view in the hospital’s Atrium during the month of September, Dr. James M. Lawless and Bridget A. Herbst will be displaying a collection of paintings in various media, including oil and pastels.

A self-taught artist, Dr. Lawless has experimented with various media, including acrylics, oils, water colors, pencil and ink and snow and sand sculpture, while pursuing and developing a career in veterinary medicine. An avid sailor, he travels to New England regularly and has been recognized for his marine paintings and is an Artist Member of the American Society of Marine Artists. His work has been shown in galleries from New York to Martha’s Vineyard. Dr. Lawless will be exhibiting a collection of still lifes and landscape paintings at Helen Hayes. He is a resident of Cornwall, where he also has a practice in veterinary medicine.

Bridget Herbst works primarily in oil and pastel and has exhibited her work at galleries throughout the Hudson Valley, New York City and Connecticut. She currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Kent Art Association in Kent, Connecticut, where she is also an Elected Artist. In addition, she coordinates art programs at the Franklin Alexander Summer Workshop in Woodstock, New York and teaches pastel classes. Ms. Herbst is a resident of Marlboro, New York.

The exhibit in the Atrium of the physical rehabilitation hospital is open to the public on a daily basis and is free of charge. For additional information, call the Public Relations Office at 786-4225.

August 9, 2002: DISPLAY SPACE AVAILABLE FOR ARTISTS

Helen Hayes Hospital is seeking local artisans who are interested in exhibiting their work in the Atrium of the physical rehabilitation hospital in West Haverstraw.

The hospital provides the exhibit space to local painters, photographers, fabric artists, and others who would like to displayi their work on a monthly basis. Currently, the hospital is booking exhibits for the 2003 calendar year. The exhibits are open free of charge to the public on a daily basis.

Anyone interested in displaying their work should contact Mary Creagh in the Public Relations Department at 845-786-4225

June 5, 2002: HOSPITAL TO ACCEPT USED NEEDLES

Helen Hayes Hospital in West Haverstraw will be accepting used needles, lancets and syringes from Rockland County residents on Tuesday, July 2, 2002 from 10:00 AM until Noon and 6:00 to 8:00 PM at the hospital’s loading dock. This service is part of the Rockland County SHARPS Disposal Program, operated by a coalition of county hospitals and nursing homes, and is free of charge.

Any Rockland resident who uses SHARPS in the home is eligible to participate in this county-wide program. This includes individuals with diabetes or other medical conditions, such as cancer or allergies, requiring medication by injection.

The SHARPS Disposal Program is an environmentally responsible method to dispose of unwanted needles, lancets and syringes, which are a potential danger to sanitation workers and the environment when disposed of improperly. Residents must place the used items into an approved container, which may be obtained from a surgical supply house or pharmacy. When the container is full, it should be closed and brought to one of the collection sites. SHARPS are collected on the first Tuesday of every month at a designated hospital or nursing home.

For additional information on the SHARPS Disposal Program, a schedule of collection sites, or the drop-off at Helen Hayes Hospital, call Joseph Puchalik, Solid Waste Engineer, at 845-364-2615.

June 5, 2002: HOSPITAL TO HOST ART EXHIBIT

Helen Hayes Hospital in West Haverstraw is hosting a group exhibit by the Norwood Art Group. The exhibit, which also includes work by the guest artist Michael Yurick, will be on view in the hospital’s Atrium beginning June 4, 2002, and will run through July 15, 2002.

The show features a collection of paintings, photographs and prints by artists from across the metropolitan region.

The guest artist, Mr. Yurick, is president of his own design firm, Yurick Design, Inc. His work is featured in numerous galleries and is in private collections and corporate headquarters interntionally. At Helen Hayes Hospital, he is displaying a collection of his prints.

The exhibit is open to the public on a daily basis and is free of charge. For additional information, call the Public Relations Office at 845-786-4225.

May 13, 2002: RECRUITMENT DRIVE FOR WOMEN TO PARTICIPATE IN OSTEOPOROSIS RESEARCH TAKING PLACE IN MAY – NATIONAL OSTEOPOROSIS PREVENTION MONTH

During National Osteoporosis Prevention Month, Helen Hayes Hospital in West Haverstraw is recruiting women to participate in studies examining new prevention and treatment options for osteoporosis, while simultaneously receiving free care from internationally renowned experts.

Currently, the hospital has several ongoing research studies which are in need of female participants. One study examines new ways to treat osteoporosis. To be eligible for the study, a woman must be postmenopausal, currently being treated with Fosamax, or Evista, and in general good health. Individuals who qualify and participate in the study will receive free bone density testing for osteoporosis, free calcium supplements, free blood work and other related medical care, and possible investigational medication while remaining on Fosamax or Evista. Funds are also available to reimburse participants for travel costs.

Lillian Woelfert, R.N., a research nurse states, "During May, which is National Osteoporosis Prevention Month, women are hearing a great deal about the importance of exercise and diet in preventing osteoporosis. By participating in groundbreaking research, women have the added opportunity of contributing to a body of knowledge which will lead to new prevention and treatment modalities in the future."

Helen Hayes Hospital is one of only two centers in the country designated as a Specialized Center of Research in Osteoporosis by the National Institutes of Health, the other site being Harvard Medical School. Thousand of individuals in the New York metropolitan and Hudson Valley region have already benefited from having access to the services at Helen Hayes. The center is staffed by physicians with specialties in endocrinology and internal medicine, nurses, dieticians and research scientists who collaborate on a broad spectrum of prevention, diagnosis and treatment methods for this debilitating disease.

Osteoporosis is a disease which causes weakening of the bones and a loss of bone mass and is a serious health concern worldwide. In the United States alone, osteoporotic fractures are expected to number 650,000 by the year 2050.

For additional information or questions on participating, call Lillian Woelfert, at 845-786-4828 or Nancy Barbuto at 786-4804.

5/10/02: JAMA STUDY CONFIRMS THE BENEFITS OF HRT IN PREVENTING POSTENOPAUSAL OSTEOPOROSIS EVEN AT LOWER DOSE

A new clinical trial appearing in this week’s Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) confirms the benefits of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in preventing postmenopausal osteoporosis even at a lower dose. The study also showed that calcium alone does not prevent bone loss during early menopause as previously thought. Osteoporosis threatens 30 million American women age 50 and older.

The Women’s Health Osteoporosis Progestin Estrogen (HOPE), one of the largest studies to date involving HRT, was a randomized placebo controlled trial involving more than 800 postmenopausal women (ages 40-65). It examined the effects of lower doses of HRT on bone mineral density (BMD) in postmenopausal women who are within four year of their last menstrual period. The results demonstrated that HRT regardless of dose significantly increases BMD and prevents osteoporosis.

"These results are good news for women who are on HRT or considering therapy in the future because it reconfirms what we have known about HRT for years; HRT significantly improves a women’s bone mineral density and prevents osteoporosis," said Dr. Robert Lindsay, the study’s lead investigator, chief of internal medicine at the Helen Hayes Hospital in New York and professor of clinical medicine at Columbia University. "Additionally, HRT is the only menopause therapy that treats menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats and vaginal dryness and prevents osteoporosis."

For the study, women were placed in one of eight treatment groups assigned to receive different doses of conjugated equine estrogens, with or without medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA), or a placebo. Each participant was also given 600mg per day of elemental calcium. Every six months spine, total hip and total bone mineral contents were assessed.

After two years of treatment, the women who received hormones showed significant gains in spine, hip and total BMD. Increases in BMD were similar among all women receiving therapy. In contrast, women who had received calcium and the placebo lost bone mass over the course of the study.

As women enter menopause they should speak with their health care provider about receiving a BMD test to assess their level of early menopausal bone loss.

"These data confirm previous study results demonstrating the efficacy of HRT in preventing bone loss in postmenopausal women," said Dr. Lindsay. "The future introduction of lower doses of estrogen and progestins may enhance initiation and compliance with HRT."

May 6, 2002: WORKSHOPS SCHEDULED FOR ADAPTED GOLF PROGRAM

Helen Hayes Hospital in West Haverstraw has announced a schedule of upcoming workshops for its new GolfAbility program. GolfAbility has been developed as an instructional program to teach the basics of golf to individuals with disabilities.

Six GolfAbility workshops have been scheduled to run from May through September. They will take place at the newly constructed GolfAbility center, which is located on the campus of the physical rehabilitation hospital. The center consists of a 1300 square foot synthetic putting green with six cups and three netted tee areas. Participants will learn how to use appropriate adaptive golf equipment, including single-rider carts. A single-rider cart is a specially equipped golf cart which allows a disabled golfer to play seated or standing, directly from the cart, and can be driven right on to the green. All workshops will be conducted by a PGA or LPGA pro. The cost of each workshop is $10 per golfer. The workshops are scheduled on Fridays as follows.

May 31st 5:00-8:00PM July 26th 4:30-7:30PM
June 14th 5:00-8:00PM Aug. 16th 4:30-7:30PM
June 28th 5:00-8:00PM Sept. 20th 3:00-6:00PM

GolfAbility is an excellent opportunity for anyone with a disability, including individuals with a spinal cord injury, stroke or arthritis, to learn how to play golf. It is open to individuals who may have played prior to acquiring a disability, or individuals who are new to the sport .

Bert Rappaport, Director of Therapeutic Recreation at Helen Hayes Hospital states, "A long-term goal of the program is to enable individuals with disabilities to play golf at courses throughout the tri-state area, utilizing the skills they have learned through GolfAbility." GolfAbility has been made possible through a $30,000 grant from The United States Golf Association (USGA) Foundation and the ongoing support of the Helen Hayes Hospital Foundation.

For additional information on GolfAbility, or to register for a workshop, call Bert Rappaport at 845-786-4113.

May 6, 2002: HOSPITAL TO HOST BLOOD DRIVE

Helen Hayes Hospital in West Haverstraw will host a Blood Drive on Tuesday, June 4, 2002 from 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM in the hospital’s Club Room.

Presently, there is a great need for blood donations in the New York region. All eligible donors are urged to participate.

Employees, volunteers, visitors, and community members are invited to donate blood. An appointment is encouraged, but walk-ins are welcome. Donors should be healthy, between the ages of 17 and 75, weigh at least 110 pounds and not have donated blood in the last 56 days. People over the age of 75 may also participate by presenting a physician’s letter of approval.

For further information, or to schedule an appointment, please call 845-786-4826.

April 8, 2002: HOSPITAL APPOINTS SAFETY DIRECTOR

Tim E. Fitzgerald has been appointed Assistant Facilities Safety Director at Helen Hayes Hospital, according to Edmund Coletti, Director of Facilities Management at the physical rehabilitation hospital in West Haverstraw.

In his new position, Mr. Fitzgerald will oversee the implementation of the hospital’s safety and security program. In addition, he will be assisting with hospital-wide environment of care issues and other facilities management roles, and will ensure the hospital’s compliance with safety regulatory standards.

Mr. Fitzgerald joins Helen Hayes Hospital from Metro-North Railroad, where he worked in Human Resources and was responsible for the railroad's compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Prior to that, he had a 24 year career with a private school and commuter bus company in New York City, where he was the Director of Safety and Insurance.

"I'm thrilled to be here at Helen Hayes Hospital. I look forward to working with everyone to make our facility the safest and most secure environment possible for patients, staff and visitors." Helen Hayes Hospital is the largest physical rehabilitation hospital in New York State, helping individuals recover from traumatic injuries and disabling diseases.

Mr. Fitzgerald is a resident of Westchester County, New York.

April 2, 2002 : HOSPITAL PHYSICAL THERAPISTS HONORED

Four of Helen Hayes Hospital’s physical therapists were recently honored at a national meeting of the American Physical Therapy Association in Boston, which attracted over five thousand physical therapists from around the country. The therapists were recognized for their advanced training and experience, leading to specializations in clinical care and treatment.

Achieving the designation of specialty in orthopedic physical therapy were Elizabeth Duggan of Mohegan Lake, NY and Janice Morra of Boonton, NJ. Mary Wainwright, a resident of Pearl River, NY was recognized as a neurologic specialist. Receiving the recognition of specialty in cardiovascular and pulmonary physical therapy was Peg Meisler of Cold Spring, NY. In order to receive these designations, each physical therapist must pass a rigorous day-long examination after having met stringent standards related to the care, research and teaching of and about individuals with specific physical problems.

These achievements increase the number of Helen Hayes Hospital’s physical therapy specialists to seven. The four join Marie Kardys Kelly and Luba Starostiak, orthopedic specialists and Mary Nishimoto, neurologic specialist. The hospital employs a staff of 38 licensed physical therapists who care for individuals with orthopedic, cardiovascular, pulmonary and neurological disorders. Through physical therapy, they help their patients regain maximum mobility and functioning.

Barbara Hanley, Director of Physical Therapy at Helen Hayes Hospital states, "We are extremely proud of these therapists, who have worked diligently, through advanced education and experience, to achieve a specialty in their respective fields. This level of expertise is a direct benefit to our patients, and to the level of care our physical rehabilitation hospital extends to all of our patients.

The Helen Hayes Hospital Physical Therapy Department treats individuals on both an inpatient and outpatient basis. For information on outpatient services, or to make an appointment, call 845-786-4194.

March 12, 2002: REHABILITATION HOSPITAL TO ESTABLISH ADAPTED GOLF PROGRAM
Grant from USGA to fund development

The Helen Hayes Hospital Foundation has announced that it is the recipient of a $30,000 grant from The United States Golf Association (USGA) Foundation for the development of a new adaptive golf program at the physical rehabilitation hospital in West Haverstraw. The objective of the program is to promote golf as a rewarding and satisfying leisure activity for patients and community members with disabilities. The new program will be known as "GolfAbility."

The grant provides funds for the construction of a 1300 square foot putting green with six cups, three netted tee areas and adaptive golf equipment, including clubs and single-rider carts. A single-rider cart is a specially equipped golf cart which allows a golfer to play seated or standing, directly from the cart, and can be driven right on to the green. The grant will also pay for a PGA or LPGA pro to run adaptive golf workshops. In addition to the workshops, hospital staff will use GolfAbility as a therapeutic tool with appropriate patients, including individuals with cardiopulmonary and neuromuscular disorders, stroke, arthritis, and other disabilities.

Construction is slated to begin in April, with a ribbon cutting ceremony tentatively planned for May. A preliminary schedule calls for six workshops to be held between May and September. Workshops will take place on Friday afternoons.

The program will be marketed throughout the greater New York metropolitan region. "We have already received an incredible amount of interest in GolfAbility," explains Bert Rappaport, Director of Therapeutic Recreation at Helen Hayes Hospital. "A long-term goal is to have accessible public courses throughout the tri-state area, complete with single-rider carts and adaptive clubs that could be ‘rented’ by persons with disabilities - many of whom might have attended GolfAbility workshops."

"Milton Herman, the Chairman of the HHH Foundation Board, spearheaded the concept for the program," explains Lauren Malone, Director of Development. "Milt is an avid golfer and uses a single-rider cart and adaptive equipment to compensate for his disability. He was enthusiastic that others would want to pursue golf or continue playing after experiencing a disability." Ms. Malone explains that the Foundation is currently seeking other organizations to become involved with the program through sponsorship of equipment, training and education.

For additional information on GolfAbility, including registration for future workshops or sponsorship opportunities, please call Bert Rappaport at 845-786-4113.

MARCH, 2002: LEADING RESEARCH CENTER SEEKS LEADING LADIES

Do you, or does someone you know, have osteoporosis? If so, there are currently excellent opportunities available to participate in studies examining new prevention and treatment options, while simultaneously receiving free care from internationally renowned experts.

Helen Hayes Hospital is one of only two centers in the country designated as a Specialized Center of Research in Osteoporosis by the National Institutes of Health, the other site being Harvard Medical School. Thousand of individuals in the New York metropolitan and Hudson Valley region have already benefited from having access to the services at Helen Hayes. The center is staffed by physicians with specialties in endocrinology and internal medicine, nurses, dieticians and research scientists who collaborate on a broad spectrum of prevention, diagnosis and treatment methods for this debilitating disease.

Currently, the center has several ongoing research studies which are in need of female participants. Participants receive free medical care from a world-renowned team of osteoporosis specialists, as well as free medications and other benefits. Lillian Woelfert, R.N., a research nurse explains, "Between now and June, we are holding an aggressive recruitment campaign."

One research study she is recruiting for examines new ways to treat osteoporosis. To be eligible for the study, a woman must be postmenopausal, currently being treated with Fosamax, or Evista, and in general good health. Individuals who qualify and participate in the study will receive free bone density testing for osteoporosis, free calcium supplements, free blood work and other related medical care, possible investigational medication while remaining on Fosamax or Evista, and an opportunity to learn more about bone health. Funds are also available to reimburse participants for travel costs.

"I would like everyone to know is that if a women does not qualify for this study, there are several other opportunities, " Ms. Woelfert explains. "In most cases, if a woman is interested in participating, we can match her up to an ongoing study." She points out that those who are eligible to participate receive very valuable medical care and are carefully monitored throughout the study. "The research taking place here is truly groundbreaking," she says, "and the individuals who participate in the research should feel extremely proud that they are contributing to the development of new ways to prevent and treat osteoporosis, which can be an extremely debilitating disease."

Osteoporosis is a disease which causes weakening of the bones and a loss of bone mass and is a serious health concern worldwide. In the United States alone, osteoporotic fractures are expected to number 650,000 by the year 2050. The disorder is expected to affect one in two women and can lead to disabling fractures and severe health consequences.

The center at Helen Hayes Hospital holds an international reputation for excellence in osteoporosis research. Scientists have published the results of landmark studies on the use and effects of estrogen replacement on bone loss, the development of new medications and the effects of dietary supplements on Osteoporosis. Robert Lindsay, M.D., Ph.D., former President of the National Osteoporosis Foundation, heads the center and is joined by a team including Felicia Cosman, M.D., Medical Director of the National Osteoporosis Foundation.

For additional information or questions on participating, call Lillian Woelfert, at 845-786-4828 or Nancy Barbuto at 786-4804.

January 17, 2002: WORLD TRADE CENTER SURVIVOR TO BE DISCHARGED FROM REHABILITATION HOSPITAL
Port Authority Sergeant is last individual to be pulled alive from disaster

West Haverstraw, NY…On Thursday, January 17, 2002, Port Authority Police Department Sergeant John McLoughlin will be discharged from Helen Hayes Hospital to return home. Sgt. McLoughlin, who is the last person pulled alive from the wreckage of the World Trade Center, has been receiving therapy at the physical rehabilitation hospital for injuries sustained in the September 11 disaster.

For 22 hours, Sgt. McLoughlin was buried beneath tons of concrete and debris with another Port Authority officer. Together, they kept each other awake and alive until rescuers heard their calls for help and could locate them. It took approximately eight hours for rescue teams to be able to dig McLoughlin out, which had to be done by hand. On the morning of September 12, he was the last person rescued alive from the site.

Dr. Ferne R. Pomerantz, a Physiatrist (doctor of physical medicine and rehabilitation) and leader of his physical rehabilitation team at Helen Hayes Hospital states, "Despite the serious nature of his injuries, Sgt. McLoughlin has made outstanding progress in his rehabilitation program. He will be coming for follow-up outpatient therapy and we are confident that he will continue to improve and make a full recovery and go on to lead a normal life." While a patient at Helen Hayes over the past seven weeks, Sgt. McLoughlin has received intensive physical and occupational therapy, in addition to medical and nursing care.

Helen Hayes Hospital is the largest and most comprehensive physical rehabilitation hospital in New York State, helping individuals recover from catastrophic injuries and disabling diseases. The hospital is operated by the New York State Department of Health and is affiliated with NewYork-Presbyterian Healthcare.