December 10, 2008: HOSPITAL TO HOST YOGA CLASSES
designed for individuals of varying abilities
Helen Hayes Hospital will host a Basic Adapted Yoga program designed specifically for people of varying abilities. Classes will meet on six Wednesdays, from January 14 through February 18, 2009, at 12:00 Noon to 12:50 p.m. in the Auditorium at the physical rehabilitation hospital in West Haverstraw.
Yoga improves circulation, range of motion, flexibility and endurance. It also helps to reduce stress and lower blood pressure.
The instructor, Bruce Van Horn, is experienced in adapting yoga to all levels of abilities. The classes offer an excellent opportunity for people with disabilities, including individuals with stroke, osteoporosis, arthritis, multiple sclerosis and other physically limiting conditions, to try yoga.
Pre-registration for the Basic Adapted Yoga classes is required. The fee is $48 for six classes. For information or to register, call Matthew Castelluccio, Adapted Sports Coordinator at Helen Hayes Hospital at 845-786-4950.
December 9, 2008: HOSPITAL SEEKS VOLUNTEERS FOR BONE DENSITY RESEARCH STUDY
The Helen Hayes Hospital Clinical Research Center in West Haverstraw is currently recruiting women for a new research study. The study will determine if the investigational use of an approved medication effects bone density in people with elevated fasting blood sugar.
To be eligible for the study, a woman must have elevated fasting blood sugar, sometimes described as borderline or pre-diabetes; must be post-menopausal for five years; and must be willing to take Vitamin D and a Calcium supplement.
Individuals who qualify and participate in the study will receive a physical examination, laboratory tests, electrocardiogram, bone density scans and study medication at no charge.
Osteoporosis is a serious health concern worldwide. It is a preventable disease that 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. Helen Hayes Hospital is one of the country’s leading centers in osteoporosis research.
For more information on how to join this research study, call Barbara Burke, RN, Nancy Barbuto, RN or Michelle Corda, RN at 845-786-4828 or 845-786-4804.
November 17, 2008: HOSPITAL TO DISTRIBUTE FLU VACCINES
Helen Hayes Hospital in West Haverstraw will be administering the influenza vaccine to individuals 18 years of age and older, while supplies last, on Monday, November 24, 2008.
Flu vaccines will be administered in the outpatient department on the second floor from 1:00 to 3:00 PM. Appointments are not necessary. Individuals 60 years of age and older receive the vaccine free of charge. The vaccine is also available to individuals 18 – 59 years of age for a fee of $25.00 (cash or check only). Pregnant women can only receive the vaccine with a prescription from their physician. Individuals with Medicare must bring their card.
For additional information, please call 845-786-4500.
October 31, 2008: New CEO Appointed at Helen Hayes Hospital
State Health Commissioner Richard F. Daines, M.D., has announced the appointment of Val S. Gray as Chief Executive Officer of Helen Hayes Hospital in West Haverstraw. Mr. Gray has directed the Department of Health’s Bureau of Health Facilities Management since 2005. He succeeds Magdelana Ramirez, who has retired after nearly 20 years as the hospital’s Chief Executive Officer.
“Val Gray has a successful history with the Department of Health and is well-qualified for this position. Before he joined us in 2003, Val spent more than 20 years overseeing several hospitals in New York and has developed a wealth of experience in hospital administration,” Commissioner Daines said.
“I also congratulate Maggie Ramirez on her retirement after a 30-year career dedicated to the health of New Yorkers,” Commissioner Daines added. “Since she began leading Helen Hayes Hospital in 1989, she has expanded clinical and research services to include a transitional center for patients with traumatic brain injuries, specialty disability Centers of Excellence and additional therapy clinics. We wish her well.”
Mr. Gray began his career at Arnot-Ogden Medical Center in Elmira, and was CEO of the Cornwall Hospital from 1986-98. He then spent three years at the Greater Hudson Valley Health System, first as senior vice president for administration and then as president. He joined DOH in 2003 as Deputy Director of Health Facilities Management and became Director in 2005.
During his time at DOH, Mr. Gray supervised the rebuilding of the New York State Veterans Nursing Home at Oxford (serving the Southern Tier), which is nearing completion. In addition, the State Veterans Nursing Home in Batavia (Western New York) implemented an innovative “zero-lift” system, using mechanical means so that no staffer would have to risk injury lifting a patient. The Department of Health also operates Veterans Nursing Homes in St. Albans (New York City) and Montrose (Hudson Valley).
Mr. Gray earned a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Alfred University and a master’s degree in business administration from Cornell University.
“I am truly honored to be appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer of Helen Hayes Hospital,” says Mr. Gray. “This is a wonderful hospital, with an established reputation for excellence in rehabilitation medicine, and it is humbling to be asked to carry on its long tradition of service. I have had the opportunity to visit HHH on many occasions, and now, I look forward to working with both the clinical and non-clinical staff to build on Helen Hayes Hospital’s leadership position in physical rehabilitation.”
Operated by the Department of Health, Helen Hayes Hospital is one of the nation’s leading specialty physical rehabilitation centers. Founded in 1900, the hospital is affiliated with NewYork-Presbyterian Healthcare System and is capable of caring for patients with the most complex and challenging disabilities. It has 155 inpatient beds, a comprehensive day hospital program, and an active outpatient service, as well as many specialized therapeutic services. In 1980, the hospital was renamed in honor of the Broadway and film actress Helen Hayes, who served on the Board of Visitors at the hospital from 1944 until her death in 1993.
October 23, 2008: HOSPITAL TO DISTRIBUTE FLU VACCINES
Helen Hayes Hospital in West Haverstraw will be administering the influenza vaccine to individuals 18 years of age and older, while supplies last, on Monday November 10, 2008.
Flu vaccines will be administered in the outpatient department on the second floor from 12:00 noon to 3:00 PM. Appointments are not necessary. Individuals 60 years of age and older receive the vaccine free of charge. The vaccine is also available to individuals 18 – 59 years of age for a fee of $25.00 (cash or check only). Pregnant women can only receive the vaccine with a prescription from their physician. Individuals with Medicare must bring their card.
For additional information, please call 845-786-4500.
October 20, 2008: HOSPITAL TO HOST ELECTION DAY BLOOD DRIVE
Helen Hayes Hospital in West Haverstraw will host a Blood Drive on Tuesday, November 4, 2008, from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM in the hospital’s auditorium.
There is a critical need for donors in the Hudson Valley regions. All eligible donors are urgently encouraged to come out and donate blood. Fasting is not necessary.
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 845-786-4814.
Sept. 24, 2008: HELEN HAYES HOSPITAL FOUNDATION SPONSORS GALA
proceeds to benefit adapted sports and recreation
The Helen Hayes Hospital Foundation will hosts its 25th annual Gala, to benefit New York State’s largest specialty physical rehabilitation hospital, on Sunday, November 16th from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Rockleigh Country Club in Rockleigh, New Jersey. The proceeds from this year’s event will support the Helen Hayes Hospital Adapted Sports and Recreation Program.
This year, two extraordinary individuals will be honored with the Helen Hayes MacArthur Award in honor of their tremendous contributions to the rehabilitation field. The award draws its inspiration and spirit from the hospital’s namesake - First Lady of the American Theater-Helen Hayes MacArthur- who served on the hospital’s board for 49 years.
Carolyn C. Zollar, J.D., Vice President of Government Relations and Policy Development for the American Medical Rehabilitation Providers Association (AMRPA) will be honored for her leadership and advocacy in ensuring patient access to high quality physical rehabilitation care nationwide. Ms. Zollar is a strong believer in the importance of effective rehabilitation programs, helping patients return to as full a life as possible. Over a 30-year career, she has been a staunch proponent and tireless advocate for rehabilitation care and providers. She has drafted legislation and bills supporting the rehabilitation industry and has assisted countless rehabilitation providers across the country, providing grassroots support and planning.
Marjorie L. King, M.D, a dedicated, well-loved and respected Rockland County cardiologist will be recognized for her twenty-five years of helping patients overcome cardiac disease. Dr. King has held numerous leadership positions on a local and national level, has promoted standards for cardiovascular rehabilitation, and has served with organizations including the American Heart Association and the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation. She is Director of Cardiac Rehabilitation services at Helen Hayes Hospital and is affiliated with Hudson Heart Associates.
These honorees know well that Helen Hayes Hospital, through programs such as the Adapted Sports and Recreation Program, helps patients explore new activities and return to activities enjoyed prior to being becoming disabled. This is the key to returning to a full, productive and enjoyable life with family, friends and colleagues.
The Adapted Sports & Recreation Program offers a range of competitive and recreational activities to individuals with disabilities, including golf, downhill skiing, kayaking, sailing, bowling, gardening and handcycling. Such activities speed the recovery process, improve and maintain health and conditioning and foster socialization and camaraderie.
The Gala is the Helen Hayes Hospital Foundation’s major fund raising event. Tickets are $250 and opportunities for sponsorship and advertising space in the Journal are currently available. In addition, donations are being accepted for the auction and raffle.
For additional information about the Gala, contact the Helen Hayes Hospital Foundation office at 845-786-4365.
June 11, 2008: HOSPITAL TO HOST BLOOD DRIVE
Helen Hayes Hospital in West Haverstraw will host a Blood Drive on Wednesday, July 9, 2008, from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM in the hospital’s auditorium.
There is a critical need for donors in the Hudson Valley regions. All eligible donors are urgently encouraged to come out and donate blood. Fasting is not necessary.
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 845-786-4229.
June 4, 2008: ADAPTED GOLF WORKSHOPS & OUTINGS SCHEDULED
Helen Hayes Hospital in West Haverstraw has announced the schedule for the upcoming season of its GolfAbility program. GolfAbility is an adaptive golf instruction program to teach the basics of golf to individuals with disabilities.
GolfAbility workshops and outings have been scheduled to run from May through September. The workshops will take place at the 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 accessible 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 that allows a disabled golfer to play seated or standing, directly from the cart, and can be driven right on to the green. The two outings will take place at a local golf course.
All workshops will be conducted by Joyce Fried, LPGA, who will be assisted by recreational and physical therapists. Sessions will start with a group lesson and then participants will break into small groups to practice concepts learned during the lesson as well as building on skills learned in previous sessions. The cost of each workshop is $15 per golfer. The GolfAbility programs will take place from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. and each workshop will be limited to 16 participants. GolfAbility golf outings will take place at the Rockland Lake Executive Course with a tee time of 3:00 pm. Players will pay their own course fees. Dates are as follows.
Workshops: June 9, July 14, July 28
Outings: June 16, June 23, July 21, September 8
Information on cancellations due to weather conditions can be obtained by calling 845-786-4484 after 1:00 p.m. on the day of a scheduled program.
GolfAbility is open to individuals who may have played prior to acquiring a disability and individuals who are new to the sport. The program seeks to prevent golfers from giving up the game due to injuries, orthopedic impairments, cardiopulmonary disease, stroke, arthritis and other age related conditions. It also seeks to encourage people of all abilities to take up the sport, including individuals with spinal cord injury or amputation.
GolfAbility is possible through support of the Helen Hayes Hospital Foundation & the North Rockland Lions Club.
Pre-registration for workshops is required. The $15 registration fee should be made payable to the Helen Hayes Hospital Foundation. Participants may register for as many workshops as they wish, but priority will be given to new participants. Checks received after a class has been filled will be returned. Registered participants will be called one week prior to each workshop to confirm acceptance status. For additional information or an application form, call Dave Wickes at 845-786-4200 or Matthew Castelluccio at 845-786-4950.
June 1, 2008: HOSPITAL TO OPEN NEW CHILD CARE CENTER
open to children of employees and the community
Helen Hayes Hospital in West Haverstraw announces the newest addition to its comprehensive campus – a state-of-the-art building that will house the hospital’s childcare center – the TLC Learning Center. The hospital will host a ribbon cutting ceremony marking the grand opening on Tuesday June 3 at 11:00 am.
The new building replaces the hospital’s current childcare center, which opened in 1987 in a renovated building on the campus. At 9,000 square feet, the new facility offers greatly expanded space and capacity. It is licensed to care for 78 children and features two infant rooms, two toddler rooms and one pre-school room. TLC Learning Center serves children of hospital employees and is open to families in the local community.
Hospital management, in conjunction with the TLC staff, worked closely with the architects and builders to develop a unique and beautiful building. The spiral roof points to the sky and the expansive windows look out to the Hudson River’s vast horizon, signaling the joy of learning and exploration. Spacious outdoor play areas, including bike trails and kid-size gardens, are just a few of the amenities. Designed with a child’s comfort in mind, the building has radiant floor heating, child-friendly bathrooms and large windows at a child’s eye level. In addition, the building features numerous Green/LEED building concepts, such as the use of rapidly renewable resources and recycled materials, energy-saving occupancy sensor lighting and high efficiency heating and cooling systems.
“The ability to host an on-site childcare center is extremely beneficial in recruiting and retaining a quality work force,” explains Magdalena Ramirez, the hospital’s Chief Executive Officer. “In turn, this contributes to providing the highest quality care to our patients. Our childcare facility has always been open to the community and we are confident that parents will find the new building spectacular and the childcare excellent.”
TLC Learning Center is a not-for-profit corporation licensed by the New York State Office of Family and Childrens Services.
The ribbon-cutting program on June 3 will include tours of the new facility, as well as brief opening remarks, a performance by the children and light refreshments.
June 1, 2008: HOSPITAL HOSTS ART EXHIBIT
Helen Hayes Hospital in West Haverstraw is hosting an exhibit featuring work of the artists of the Lattimore Atelier Studio in Cornwall, New York. The exhibit will be on display in the hospital Atrium From June 1 through July 31, 2008.
The Atelier’s students have included a variety of work in this group show. Landscapes from Italy to the Hudson Valley, still lifes and portraits are all featured. The body of work is representative of the range of paintings and drawings being created by the students and their instructor, the artist Andrew Lattimore.
Lattimore, a classically European trained portrait and landscape painter, established the school of fine art at his Atelier located in a historic textile mill. Under his tutelage, students take drawing and still life, portrait, landscape and plein air painting classes. Lattimore encourages the students to learn not only from him, but also from each other, as they congregate in the expansive Atelier with ceiling high windows that drench the space in a diffused light. A multidimensional artist with a distinctive vision, Lattimore’s paintings are in collections throughout the United States and Europe. Most recently, New York State Governor George Pataki selected Lattimore to paint his official portrait that will hang in the state capital. The artist is represented by several galleries and teaches classes at his Atelier in Cornwall.
The exhibit at 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.
May 28, 2008: WHEELCHAIR SOFTBALL GAMES SCHEDULED
Helen Hayes Hospital in West Haverstraw will host two Wheelchair Softball Games: on Wednesday, June 25 and Wednesday September 3, 2008, at 4:30 p.m. at the rehabilitation hospital in West Haverstraw.
The United Spinal Softball Team will provide a lesson on how adapted softball is played. Team members will bring adapted equipment and participants will play a full game. Individuals of all physical abilities, including players using wheelchairs, are welcome to come and play or cheer the players on as a spectator.
Pre-registration is encouraged. For information, call 845-786-4950.
May 8, 2008: HOSPITAL TO HOST YOGA CLASSES
designed for individuals of varying abilities
Helen Hayes Hospital will host a Basic Yoga program designed specifically for people of varying abilities. Classes will meet on six Wednesdays, from May 21 through June 25, 2008, 12:00 Noon to 12:50 p.m. in the Auditorium at the physical rehabilitation hospital in West Haverstraw.
Yoga improves circulation, range of motion, flexibility and endurance. It also helps to reduce stress and lower blood pressure.
The instructor, Bruce Van Horn, is experienced in adapting yoga to all levels of abilities. The classes offer an excellent opportunity for people with disabilities, including individuals with stroke, osteoporosis, arthritis, multiple sclerosis and other physically limiting conditions, to try yoga.
Pre-registration for the Basic Yoga classes is required. The fee is $48. for six classes. For information or to register, call Matthew Castelluccio, Adapted Sports Coordinator at Helen Hayes Hospital at 845-786-4950.
May 8, 2008: HOSPITAL TO HOST ADAPTED GARDENING WORKSHOP
Helen Hayes Hospital will host an Adapted Gardening Workshop on Saturday May 31, 2008 from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. at the physical rehabilitation hospital in West Haverstraw. The program, which is being sponsored in cooperation with the Master Gardeners of Cornell Cooperative Extension of Rockland County, is open to individuals of all abilities who would like to learn about adapted gardening tools and techniques.
Program participants will learn about amending soil, as well as selecting, planting and maintaining plants. Master Gardeners and Recreational Therapists will discuss and demonstrate how to incorporate the use of adapted tools and techniques to make gardening possible and enjoyable despite any physical limitations. Gardening from a seated position, getting up off the ground, the availability of adapted devices and how to make accommodations for loss of strength or dexterity will all be covered. A planting bed will be prepared for participants to utilize these tools and techniques. The setting for the program will be the hospital’s MacArthur Park, which offers spectacular views of the Hudson River.
Pre-registration for the workshop is required for the program, which is free of charge. For information or to register, call Matthew Castelluccio at Helen Hayes Hospital at 845-786-4950.
MAY 18, 2008: ADAPTED SAILING PROGRAM SCHEDULED
group to sail in conjunction with Nyack Boat Club’s annual Tappan Zee Regatta on the Hudson River
The Nyack Boat Club, sponsors of the annual Tappan Zee Regatta, will be hosting the third annual Adapted Sailing program, in conjunction with Helen Hayes Hospital, this May. Members of adapted sailing teams, along with Boat Club members and therapists from the leading physical rehabilitation Hospital, will be mentoring individuals with physical disabilities on how to sail using adaptive boats and equipment.
The program kicks off with an Introduction to Sailing Workshop on Thursday, May 8, from 6:00 – 7:30 pm at the Nyack Boat Club in Nyack. This will be followed by a day of Adapted Sailing on the Hudson River on Friday, May 16 from 11:30 am to 6:30 p.m. at the club in Nyack, Rockland County. The day will kick off with a meet the sailors lunch and panel discussion on adaptive sailing. From there, the group will head down to the Boat Club docks on the Hudson River to get on board the specially adapted sonar boats. Adaptive sailing skills and techniques will be demonstrated to individuals with physical disabilities who are new to the sport. Participants are welcome to stay for an informal reception and roundtable discussion on opportunities in adapted sailing.
On Saturday, May 17, the Boat Club will host the Tappan Zee Regatta. Competitors of all abilities, including the Paralympic teams, will be participating in the event. Spectator boats will be available for individuals of all abilities to get out on the water and view the Regatta.
The Workshop, day of sailing and spectator opportunity are all free of charge. Dinner following the Regatta, which will take place at 6:00 pm on May 17, is $15. For additional information, contact 845-786-4950.
March 31, 2008: HOSPITAL TO HOST ART EXHIBIT
Recent paintings by New York artist Diane Drescher will be on view in the Atrium at Helen Hayes Hospital in West Haverstraw from April 1 – April 30, 2008.
Water is a central motif in many of Drescher’s paintings. This past year, she turned her focus exclusively to the scenes of the Hudson River and the resulting paintings comprise her first solo show entitled “Illuminated Landscapes.” The paintings are filled with light and space and portray the rich personality of the river as seen at different times of day and in all kinds of weather.
Drescher created the paintings on site at the Haverstraw County Park and the Stony Point Battle Ground, with views of Haverstraw Bay, the widest point in the Hudson River. The show also features works from Woodstock and the Hamptons. The artist loves nature and the outdoors and her paintings are a tribute to this sensibility.
Born in Wisconsin, Diane Drescher graduated from the University of Wisconsin- Madison and moved to New York City to continue her studies in design at the Fashion Institute of Technology. She established a successful career in apparel design while at the same time continuing her painting studies at the Art Students League and the National Academy of Fine Art. Travels to Europe over a 10 year period for the purpose of researching design trends for commercial projects provided an ideal opportunity to view art in the museums of Paris and London. As a result, Drescher refined her painting style by incorporating vivid colors, thick application of paint, and distinctive brush strokes. She has exhibited widely since 2003 in group shows in Manhattan and Brooklyn and in Westchester, Rockland and Ulster Counties. She resides in New York City and maintains an art studio in Garnerville Arts & Industrial Complex in Garnerville, NY .
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.
February 12, 2008: 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 study examining new treatments for osteoporosis.
To be eligible for the study, a woman must be between age of 45 or older, postmenopausal, diagnosed with osteoporosis and currently taking the medication Actonel, Fosamex or no treatment.
Individuals who qualify and participate in the study will receive all study-related care at no charge, including bone density testing, physical examinations, laboratory services, calcium and vitamin D supplements and free study medication. Financial compensation for time and travel will also be available.
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. Helen Hayes Hospital is one of the country’s leading centers in osteoporosis research.
For more information on how to join the many women participating in this research study, call 845-786-4828 or 845-786-4802.
February 1, 2008: HOSPITAL TO HOST ADAPTED SPORTS & RECREATION EXPO
Helen Hayes Hospital will host an “Adapted Sports & Recreation Expo” on Saturday, April 12, 2008 from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the physical rehabilitation hospital in West Haverstraw. The event is free of charge and is open to all individuals with physical disabilities, as well as their family, friends and caregivers.
The Expo will feature an extensive exhibit fair with representatives from various organizations which offer a range of adapted sports and recreational opportunities for individuals with disabilities, including: downhill skiing; adapted golf; kayaking; sailing; handcycling; horseback riding; basketball, tennis; gardening; quad rugby and others. Participants will be able to speak with the representatives to learn about the activities available in the greater New York Metropolitan region, how they can play or participate, and the specialized equipment which is available. Adapted sports equipment will also be on display.
Matthew Castelluccio, Adapted Sports Coordinator at Helen Hayes Hospital states, “Participating in sports and recreational activities, whether competitively or just for enjoyment, helps to maintain optimum health. The Expo is an ideal opportunity for individuals of all abilities to learn about the range of adapted equipment and programs that are available in our region.”
The event is free of charge. For additional information or directions, please call the Helen Hayes Hospital Public Relations Office at 845-786-4225, or visit the hospital’s web site at http://www.helenhayeshospital.org.
January 14, 2008: HOSPITAL TO HOST BLOOD DRIVE
Helen Hayes Hospital in West Haverstraw will host a Blood Drive on Tuesday, February 5, 2008, from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM in the hospital’s auditorium.
There is a critical need for donors in the Hudson Valley regions. All eligible donors are urgently encouraged to come out and donate blood. Fasting is not necessary.
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 845-786-4229. |
