A Healthy Dose of News from Sanford Health of Northern Minnesota

PULSATIONS

Welcome New Physicians Cancer Fighting Dish

New rehab program offered to cancer survivors

Sanford Bemidji Cancer CenterLetter from the President

PAGE 3

When looking for world-class cancer care, David Sage chose Sanford Bemidji Cancer Center PAGE 9

Winter 2013

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Cancer Care Close to Home

According to the Minnesota Department of Health, “about half of all Minnesotans will be diagnosed with a potentially serious cancer during their lifetime, and about 25 percent will die from one of these diseases.”1 All of us likely have already been touched by cancer journeys we’ve shared with friends or family.

At Sanford Bemidji, our cancer program allows people to stay close to home at a time when they need emotional support from loved ones. I am happy to announce that cancer care in Bemidji is just going to keep getting better.

In February, Sanford Bemidji Cancer Center will be surveyed to become nationally accredited in cancer care and in breast cancer services by the Commission on Cancer (CoC) of the

American College of Surgeons and the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC). Our voluntary commitment to this rigorous process ultimately benefits our patients and improves survival rates and quality of life for patients.

Ultimately, Sanford Bemidji Cancer Center will provide a seamless, integrated program under the direction of a multidisciplinary team. We are extremely fortunate to have skilled physicians with established expertise in areas such as surgery, medical oncology and radiation oncology. The team approach incorporates dietitians, nurses, social services, rehab therapists and other specialists who collaborate to provide evaluation and treatment according to evidence-based national guidelines.

By Dan Olson, PresidentSanford Health of Northern Minnesota

In Bemidji we are offering services that have never before been provided, like 24/7 Interventional Cardiology and Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy. We are also working to make services that we already provide even better.

Sanford Bemidji Cancer Services offers patients the opportunity to continue receiving treatment close to home in an environment that combines warm, personalized care with superb technology, dedicated teamwork and the assurance that cancer care in Bemidji meets and often exceeds national standards.

1Minnesota Cancer Facts and Figures 2011, pg. 5, http://www.health.state.mn.us/divs/hpcd/cdee/mcss/documents/mncancerfactsfigures2011033011.pdf

When Mary Luethmers was diagnosed with breast cancer last year, rehabilitation wasn’t one of the words she associated with treatment. Now, she says, she knows treatment saved her life, but rehabilitation has made living enjoyable again. STAR (Survivorship Training and Rehabilitation) enhances Sanford Bemidji’s multidisciplinary team approach to cancer care by focusing on cancer survivors’ quality of life, helping them with pain management and improving strength, energy and function.

“The rehab program is magnificent and I

received great care everywhere,” Luethmers said. “My care was such a team effort, with everyone who worked with me communicating with each other and with me. No matter who I saw, they knew what was happening with me. Having chemotherapy was kind of a nightmare. But I’m grateful for it because it’s what saved my life.”

Cancer treatments may cause a range of adverse side effects in patients. Such was the case for Luethmers, who had a lumpectomy followed by chemotherapy and radiation

STAR Team Provides Cancer Patients Holistic Care and Support

treatments. During the course of treatment, she was hospitalized three times and placed in isolation during one of those hospitalizations. Several times, she developed painful infections that required secondary treatment. A hip inflammation caused chronic pain and fluid buildup in her feet and legs, making walking difficult. She became so weak and fatigued that she was unable to care for herself.

Radiation Oncologist Dr. John Bollinger referred her to STAR. This innovative,

Continued on next page

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nationally recognized program helps minimize patients’ side effects through coordinated development of a rehab plan specific to a patient’s needs. STAR staff includes physicians, nurses, radiation therapists, physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, registered dietitians, social workers and exercise specialists. Staff receives additional training and must become STAR certified, ensuring that the overall continuum of care is maintained.

Medical Oncologist Dr. Jayan Nair explained things and listened to Luethmers’ concerns. Physical Therapist Jeff Breyen developed an exercise plan to help her strengthen the weak hip and rebuild stamina. Nurses and physical and occupational therapists visited Luethmers regularly at her home to assist her with mobility and lifestyle adjustments. A dietitian offered nutritional support when Luethmers had no appetite.

“You don’t realize how important holistic care and support is, not just physically but mentally too,” Luethmers said. “I retired from teaching three years ago but my husband still works part-time and many of my friends too. The winter was cold and stormy and I felt isolated. I so looked forward to the nurses and therapists who worked with me.”

Luethmers is eager to point out that the full spectrum of her care at Sanford Bemidji was exceptional. She felt confident in the expertise of Dr. Nair and Dr. Bollinger. She found comfort in knowing that the equipment is state of the art. Her decision was reaffirmed when a Mayo Clinic physician told her that Sanford Bemidji’s Oncology Program is excellent and well respected at Mayo Clinic.

Cancer treatment can cause a wide variety of side effects, including numbness, tingling in the extremities, severe fatigue, muscle pain, joint stiffness, limb swelling, weakness, memory problems, balance and gait problems, and even issues with talking or swallowing. Women with breast cancer are also at high risk for lymphedema. Luethmers, who said she experienced most of these symptoms and felt like she’d lost all her independence, now finds pleasure in doing routine things again - like laundry - that she wouldn’t have considered pleasures in the past.

Cancer survivor, Mary Luethmers, was still experiencing the side effects of treatment when she met Jeff Breyen, MPT, and other STAR team members. Today, she has her independence back.“I can’t say enough good about my

experience. Without all the therapy, I seriously believe I’d be at least

50 percent behind where I am now.”

Sanford Bemidji Cancer Center and Sanford Bemidji Outpatient Rehab provides patients with a cancer diagnosis, whether past or recent, a chance to get their life back.

Individualized STAR treatment plans focus on: • Increasing strength and energy • Managing pain • Improving function • Better quality of life

STAR services are available to anyone with a cancer diagnosis who has problems that didn’t exist prior to cancer. Most health insurance providers cover STAR. To learn more, call (218) 333-5898 or ask your primary care clinician for a referral.

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Welcome, New Physicians

McKenzi K. Burmeister, MD Family MedicineDr. Burmeister graduated from the University of Minnesota Medical School (Duluth & Minneapolis, MN) in 2010 and completed her residency through the Duluth Family Practice Residency Program in Duluth, MN. She is board certified in Family Medicine and a member of the American Academy of Family Physicians and the Minnesota Academy of Family Physicians. Dr. Burmeister grew up in Lakefield, MN. When she was in 7th grade her family relocated to Blackduck, MN, where she graduated high school. She and her husband are excited to return to the Bemidji area with their two children.

Dr. McKenzi Burmeister is a family medicine physician at Sanford Bemidji Main Clinic.

James D. Dewar, DOOne might think Dr. Dewar came to Bemidji for the hockey (“Go Beavers!”) and the fishing, that’s only partially true. Originally from rural Alaska, he wanted to raise his family in a similar environment. He started his career as a medical transporter and held several other jobs in the medical field before entering residency. These experiences provided him a unique perspective and “a sincere desire to help heal and educate people.” Dr. Dewar and his wife have two sons and are happy to call Bemidji home.

Dr. James Dewar is an interventional cardiologist at Sanford Bemidji Heart & Vascular Center.

Sara A. Fredrickson, OD Optometry

Dr. Sara Fredrickson received her first pair of glasses when she was a young girl. From that moment on, her interest and passion led her to become an optometrist. In fact, she married another optometrist, Dr. Sam Sant who works at Sanford’s 1611 Anne Street Eye Center & Optical. Together, they have two children and enjoy spending time in the outdoors; hunting, fishing, camping and boating. Dr. Fredrickson’s compassion and empathy for each patient’s situation helps her provide the best quality care individualized to their needs.

Dr. Sara Fredrickson is an optometrist at Sanford Bemidji Downtown Eye Center & Optical.

Interventional Cardiology

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Dr. Jawaid obtained her medical degree from Aga Khan University in Karachi, Pakistan, and completed an Internal Medicine residency at the University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN. She also completed a Public Health Administration Course and a Global Health Course, both from the University of Minnesota. Prior to moving to Bemidji with her family, Dr. Jawaid worked as an Internist/Hospitalist at HealthEast Care System in Maplewood, MN. Dr. Jawaid is married to Sanford Bemidji Cardiologist Nur Jameel. They enjoy spending time with family and look forward to raising their children in Bemidji.

Dr. Alya Jawaid is an internal medicine physician at Sanford Bemidji Main Clinic.

Alya S. Jawaid, MD Internal Medicine

Samar Malaeb, MD Endocrinology

Dr. Malaeb’s love of being with people and interest in science led her into choosing a medical career. She believes that being someone’s doctor is a long-term partnership, “based first on care and empathy, respect of a patient’s wishes.” Prior to moving to Bemidji with her husband, Dr. Rawad Nasr and their beautiful daughter, Dr. Malaeb was completing a 2-year fellowship in obesity and getting her certification as a Clinical Densitometrist (study of bone density). When not at work, she loves being active and spending time with friends and traveling.

Dr. Samar Malaeb is an endocrinologist at Sanford Bemidji Main Clinic.

Ragna Godtland, OD Optometry

Unlike the medical profession, residencies in optometry are optional. Passionate about vision rehab, Dr. Godtland completed a residency in Vision Therapy and Low Vision Rehabilitation with an emphasis on vision needs for patients with a brain injury. In her practice at the Baudette Eye Center, she loves that she is able to use elements from her specialized training in the routine care she provides. “It’s a little surprising to me how much my specialized training comes into play in everyday care.” Whether she is working with a newborn infant or someone into their 100s, she enjoys the variety her practice provides.

Dr. Ragna Godtland is an optometrist at Sanford Health Baudette Eye Center.

WELCOMEWELCOME

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Stephen Rith-Najarian, MD Walk-In Family Medicine

Dr. Steve Rith-Najarian grew up on the East Coast, but for his family, Bemidji is home. “I feel blessed to live in Bemidji where I enjoy the abundant access to hiking, camping, canoeing and fishing,” says Dr. Steve. Although new to Sanford, Dr. Steve is not new to the area. For 27 years he served with the US Public Health and Indian Health Services as a diabetes consultant and family physician in Cass Lake. When it comes to his patients, he sees his role as that of a coach, facilitating educated decisions about their health and wellness that align with their personal values.

Dr. Stephen Rith-Najarian is a family medicine physician at Sanford Bemidji Walk-In Clinic.

Rawad Nasr, MDDr. Nasr came to Bemidji with his wife and professional partner, Dr. Samar Malaeb. Together they have one child and look forward to raising their family in northern Minnesota. Becoming a physician fulfilled a childhood dream of Dr. Nasr’s, but as much as he enjoys the science behind medicine, he says, “I cherish the human interaction that comes with it (practicing medicine).” A big fan of sports, Dr. Nasr enjoys swimming, skiing and playing tennis. For the quiet moments, he likes watching movies and reading.

Dr. Rawad Nasr is a rheumatologist at Sanford Bemidji Main Clinic.

Chad J. St. Germain, MD Radiology

Even though Dr. St. Germain does not directly interact with patients, he views each x-ray image with the respect and due diligence that he would hope his family member would receive. “My passion is to help others using the skills and knowledge I have acquired,” said Dr. St. Germain. Without the guidance of his mentors throughout his life, he would not be where he is today. It is because of his educational, medical and spiritual mentors that he chose to specialize in radiology. Dr. St. Germain is originally from Argyle, MN.

Dr. Chad St. Germain is a radiologist at Sanford Bemidji Main Clinic.

Rheumatology

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WELCOMEWELCOME

Dr. Zuberi brings weight loss surgery to Bemidji; providing individuals more options to lose weight while receiving health care close to home. Together with his team of professionals, Dr. Zuberi utilizes the whole-person approach to weight loss. His clinical experience and compassion to journey through the challenges facing his patients needs are what drive him towards creating a successful weight loss surgery program in Bemidji. Fellowship trained in several areas, Dr. Zuberi also specializes in surgical care for reflux/GERD, cancer, and diseases of the liver, pancreas and bile ducts.

Dr. Kashif Zuberi is a surgeon at Sanford Bemidji Main Clinic.

Kashif A. Zuberi, MD Surgery (General & Bariatric)

JoLyn M. Seitz, MD Obstetrics and Gynecology

Dr. Seitz is happy to return to her home town and practice medicine. With her sister’s influence, she pursued a career in medicine and eventually chose to specialize in obstetrics and gynecology. Married to her high school sweetheart, together they have two children and enjoy the outdoors. She loves photography and spending time with her family. When it comes to her patients, Dr. Seitz says, “I think of my relationship with patients as a partnership where we both contribute to the patient’s health.”

Dr. JoLyn Seitz is an obstetrician and gynecologist at Sanford Bemidji Main Clinic.

New Medical Specialties at Sanford BemidjiRecently, Sanford Bemidji added three new specialties.Endocrinology

Endocrinologists diagnose, treat and help patients manage diabetes, thyroid problems, metabolic disorders and adrenal conditions. Dr. Samar Malaeb also helps patients with obesity and related health concerns.

Weight Loss Surgery Weight Loss Surgery offers you the option to lose weight with the assistance of surgery. Dr. Kashif Zuberi is fellowship trained and uses innovative procedures that are minimally invasive to shorten recovery times and reduce the risk of complications.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is a non-invasive, painless treatment option where patients breathe pure oxygen at pressures higher than the external atmosphere. Increased oxygen delivery to tissues stimulates the release of growth factors and stem cells, which promote healing and fight infection.

To learn more about any of these specialties or to schedule an appointment, contact Sanford Bemidji at (218) 333-5000.

Learn more online at sanfordhealth.org.

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Evan Hazard first saw Elaine Willis in 1948, during Independent Council meetings at Cornell University in Ithaca, New York. “She was pretty, but I was attracted primarily to her delightful personality, not her looks,” Evan said. “We hit it off well, better than I expected.” “By the end of the spring semester, we were an item.”

Three and a half years later, while Elaine was studying for her bachelor of science in nursing in New York City, Evan and Elaine married. They moved to Bemidji in 1958 when Evan joined the biology faculty at Bemidji State College. After raising two sons and a daughter, and earning two more degrees, Elaine worked as a full-time nurse in Bemidji.

In the fall of 2010, after she’d cared for countless others through her career and volunteer work, Elaine’s own health started to decline. On December 16, the Hazards were told Elaine had acute monocytic/myelocytic leukemia; her white cell count was increasing rapidly. The next day, Sanford oncologists confirmed Elaine’s terminal diagnosis. She started chemotherapy treatment the Monday before Christmas. “Care by the hospital’s nurses, aides and respiratory therapists was excellent,” Evan said.

On December 28, after 58 wonderful years of marriage, Evan said goodbye to his best friend when Elaine died of cancer-related pneumonia. In her honor, and in appreciation of the care his wife and family received during that difficult time, Evan established the Elaine J. Hazard Endowment for the Cancer Center of Excellence Fund.

Endowments provide support to ensure patients at Sanford Bemidji have access to cutting-edge diagnostics and treatment. “I don’t need to go on a cruise and I can’t travel as much, so I can give to a few charities Elaine and I chose,” he said. “I certainly have a loyalty to the hospital in Bemidji. I volunteer there, I’ve had surgery there, and my wife was taken care of there.”

Honoring a Best Friend

On Melanoma Monday, May 6, 2013, Sanford Bemidji Dermatology held a free melanoma screening with the goal of decreasing late-stage melanoma. Dermatologist Natalie Roholt, MD, and Deb Steinbar, PA-C, completed 74 free screenings, 18 of which resulted in a skin cancer diagnosis. All positive findings were followed up on by a physician and appropriate treatment recommended.

Melanoma, an often fatal form of skin cancer, is one of the top five cancers detected at Sanford Bemidji. Unfortunately, many people don’t examine their skin or have regular screenings with their clinician. Using this ABCDE chart, ask someone for help checking your skin. If you notice something different, you should see a dermatologist.

Melanoma Monday 2013Raise Awareness. Encourage Early Detection.

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World-Class Cancer Care Brings Grand Forks Resident to Bemidji

“I’ve got nothing but praise for that place,” says David Sage of his experiences as a patient at Sanford Bemidji. “I can’t say enough good about the doctors and staff and how I was treated there. I have great pride in what they did for me, and a special place in my heart for that hospital and those people.”

David, 59, of Grand Forks, lived in Bemidji for nearly four months last year while he was being treated for a rare, often fatal, form of cancer. Still cancer-free since he finished his treatment last August, David continues to regularly drive to Bemidji from his Grand Forks home for follow up with Dr. Mitchell Marion, the Sanford board-certified otolaryngologist (ear, nose and throat specialist) who diagnosed David’s condition.

“Sanford was there all the way through for me and they are staying on top of it now,” David said.

Choosing Dr. Marion was his first good decision, David says. A chronic discomfort in the area of his mouth and throat had troubled him. But when he had asked medical providers about it, they’d dismissed his concern. David persisted, doing his own research at a medical library. His findings convinced him that Dr. Marion was the best ear, nose and throat specialist in the region. David made an appointment.

Dr. Marion listened carefully to David’s concerns and then took samples from David’s mouth and throat for a biopsy. The results confirmed that David had squamous cell carcinoma of the buccal mucosa, the same type of oral cavity cancer that had led to his mother’s death in 1997. David’s cancer was located in his mouth and neck.

David began an aggressive treatment regimen that included two surgeries and several weeks of simultaneous chemotherapy and radiation treatments. Dr. John Bollinger, a board-certified radiation oncologist, motivated him to keep going, David said.

“He and Dr. Marion are a fabulous team and I’m lucky to have had them,” David commented.

Besides their impressive medical skills, Sanford providers’ heartfelt compassion and personal interest really touched him. They always greeted him with a smile, answered his concerns and went the extra mile.

Most of all, David is thankful to God. He’s glad to be back home with his wife, Diane, who stayed with him last summer in Bemidji and who continues to support him in recovery. He is deeply appreciative of life’s little joys - like fishing again with Diane.

Nothing beats a day fishing for David Sage, except maybe the doctors and staff at Sanford Bemidji Cancer Center who successfully treated him for an often fatal form of cancer.

1. Breast

2. Lung

3. Prostate

4. Colon

5. Melanoma

Top 5 Cancers Detected

Sanford Bemidji Cancer Center

1. Prostate

2. Breast

3. Lung and bronchus

4. Colon and rectum

5. Melanoma

State of Minnesota

Cancer in Minnesota, 1988-2009, Minnesota Department of Health, December 2012, http://www.health.state.mn.us/divs/hpcd/cdee/mcss/documents/cancerinmndec2012.pdf, pages 34-36

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World-Class Care.Close to Home.

John Bollinger, MD Radiation Oncology

Mohamed Hussein, MD Medical Oncology

Jayan Nair, MD Medical Oncology

Sanford Bemidji Cancer Center Team

Beth Ann Korczak, PA-C Radiation & Medical Oncology

• Medical oncology

• Radiation oncology

• Surgery

• Diagnostic imaging

• Pathology

• Clinical trials

• Research

• Tumor conferences

• Psychological services

• Social services

• Nutrition therapy

• Rehabilitation

• Nurse navigators

• Pain management

• Palliative care

Our Cancer Center offers the most advanced cancer care available in northern Minnesota. Our patients have access to world-class clinicians and an expert team of professionals ready to provide innovative treatments and compassionate care for you or your loved one.

Services

In general, the scientific community believes that support groups can enhance quality of life for many people with cancer. They do this by providing information and practical support to manage feelings of aloneness and helplessness that sometimes result from a cancer diagnosis. Research has shown that people with cancer are better able to deal with their disease when supported by others in similar situations.

Cancer Concerns and Connections is designed to do just that.

The gatherings are facilitated by Tom and Yvonne Sunnarborg and Pat Reynolds and center around the physical, mental and spiritual aspects of living with cancer. Participants are able to share their experience through the cancer journey while embracing the gift of life and encouraging intentional living and healthy choices.

Each meeting held at the Sunnarborg’s home includes a presentation on a cancer-related topic and is followed by fellowship time in “The Soda Room.” Anyone on the cancer journey is welcome to attend. For information, call Tom or Yvonne Sunnarborg at (218) 751-8343 or Sanford Bemidji Cancer Center at (218) 333-4600.

The 2014 Cancer Concerns and Connections calendar can be found online at bemidji.sanfordhealth.org/CancerCenter.

Local support group for those living with a cancer diagnosis and their caregivers

Cancer Concerns and Connections

Cancer Concerns and Connections facilitators Pat Reynolds and Yvonne and Tom Sunnarborg enjoy a treat in the Soda Room.

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Kristan Phipps is picking up the pieces of life again, grateful for the Sanford Bemidji physicians and cancer team that supported her through a tumultuous battle with breast cancer. Only 42 at the time of diagnosis, Phipps says she will never forget Dec. 19, 2011.

“That was the day my world turned upside down,” she said. “I learned the biopsy results were positive. No one else in my family had ever had breast cancer and I was supposed to be too young.”

The diagnosis struck a deep-seated fear. Her first husband was diagnosed with brain cancer on their first wedding anniversary and she cared for him through his illness and death. She couldn’t bear the thought of her children watching her struggle with cancer. They already had their own challenges. Joseph was stationed in Afghanistan; Seth with autism, and as a result, special needs; Meghan was still in high school.

Health problems had already emotionally and financially drained her family. Now remarried, her husband, Kelly, had suffered a heart attack followed by a long recovery. Her father had died of complications related to cancer. Earlier in 2011, Sanford Bemidji Surgeon Dr. Allan Campbell performed gallbladder removal surgery on both Kristan and Kelly. Then in December at a routine wellness exam, Phipps had her first mammogram followed by an ultrasound and the fateful biopsy. That was just the beginning. Within the next seven months, she had two more surgeries: a lumpectomy done by Dr. Campbell and a total hysterectomy done by Dr. Roland Armstrong, a specialist in obstetrics/gynecology. Between surgeries, she had chemotherapy treatments followed by radiation treatments.

“It all happened so fast, it was such a blur for me,” she reflected. “It was just like my brain went into shut down mode. I couldn’t comprehend all of it. My husband and mother were such good support for me.”

So was the staff at Sanford Bemidji Cancer Center, where Phipps became a familiar fixture. “They were all so wonderful to me,” she commented. “One day I was in radiation having a treatment and I was so stress overloaded that I just laid there and cried. I knew they were watching me on the camera but I couldn’t stop. One of the girls came in and gave me a huge hug. It was like my guardian angel was right there. All of the people in that department have become like a second family to me.

She’s also grateful for her primary care physician, Dr. Thomas Haas at Sanford Health Walker Clinic. He urged her to have a baseline mammogram at her annual physical. She complied, thinking it wasn’t necessary. Now she knows how necessary it was.

Kristan Phipps: A Survivor’s Story

Following a routine mammogram, Kristan Phipps breast cancer diagnosis was the last thing she expected, especially with no family history.

“Enjoy sweetened squash with fruit and corn bread stuffing for a twist of flavors. Loaded with nutrition, these foods will help fill you up with flavors and cancer-fighting antioxidants.”

Kelly Jo Zellmann, RD, LD Sanford Bemidji Clinical Dietitian

In heavy 2-quart pot, heat oil over high heat. Add onions, celery, sage and garlic and sauté

20 minutes. Add water or broth, apricots and pecans, if desired. Simmer until two-thirds of

liquid is absorbed, about 10 minutes. Fold vegetables, parsley and salt and pepper, to taste, into cornbread. (Filling can be refrigerated for up to 1 day.) When ready to bake, preheat oven to 350 degrees. In baking

pans large enough to hold them in single layer, place squash halves cut-side down. Brush

skin lightly with oil. Pour 1/2-inch boiling water into pans and bake 20 minutes, until squash

are halfway cooked. (Or, in microwave-safe dish, microwave 10-15 minutes, until halfway

cooked.)

Transfer squash to plate until cool enough to handle. (This can be done 8 hours ahead.) Fill

squash with stuffing and return, stuffing side up, to pan. (This can be done 4 hours ahead.)

Bake about 1 hour, until squash pierce easily with tip of knife. Before serving, cut each squash half in half again. Makes 12 servings. Per serving: 212 calories, 8 g total fat (2 g saturated fat), 33 g carbohydrates, 3 g protein,

4 g dietary fiber, 312 mg sodium. Recipe from: American Institute for Cancer Research

Stuffed Acorn Squash4 cups cornbread, cut into 1/2-inch cubes 2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, plus additional for brushing squash 2 large Spanish onions, thinly sliced 1/2 cup finely diced celery with leaves 2 Tbsp. finely chopped fresh sage 2 tsp. finely chopped garlic 1 1/2 cups hot water or vegetable broth 1/2 cup chopped dried apricots 1/2 cup chopped pecans, lightly toasted (optional) 2 Tbsp. finely chopped parsley Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste 3 large acorn squash, halved and seeded Boiling water

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. On baking sheet, spread cornbread cubes and toast until lightly browned,15-20 minutes. Transfer to bowl and set aside.

Cancer FightingCancer Fighting

Most parents don’t take chances when it comes to the health of their child. So why not protect your son or daughter from certain diseases caused by human papillomavirus (HPV)?

Exposure can happen early during adolescent experimentation. That is why it’s important to protect your son or daughter. When it comes to HPV, both females and males are affected. The good news is there are several ways to lower the chances of getting HPV and HPV-related cancers. Vaccines can prevent about 21,000 of these cancers. Teen girls and young women through age 26 who did not receive the vaccine when they were younger can still be vaccinated, as well as teen boys and young men through age 21.

The best thing to do is talk to your primary care provider or your child’s health care clinician when your son or daughter is 11-12 years old. Ask them:

• Are HPV-related diseases something to be concerned about?

• What are the effects of getting an HPV-related disease?

• What is the best protection against certain HPV-related diseases?

• When should my daughter start having regular Pap tests?

HPV Prevention Program 2013 Throughout 2013, Sanford Bemidji Cancer Center and Otolaryngology (ear, nose, throat) teams provided both professional and community-based prevention programs designed to reduce HPV. Specific seminar learning opportunities for physicians, nurses and health care professionals were held and over 40 staff attended.

The team also went out into the community with prevention programs and information. They attended five regional health fairs and expos, reaching over 3,000 people in Bemidji, Kelliher and Red Lake.

Learn About HPV Before Your Kids Do

Pulsations is a publication of Sanford Health of Northern Minnesota. Advice offered in this publication is provided for informational/educational purposes only and is not intended for the purpose of diagnosing or prescribing. Consult your physician before undertaking any form of medical treatment and/or advice contained in this publication. If you would like to receive through direct mail, contact (218) 333-5654.

Board of DirectorsDan Olson, President, Sanford Health of Northern MinnesotaNate White, Senior Vice President and COO for Sanford Health

Dean Thompson, ChairPete AubeJason Caron, MDGlen LindsethMary MarchelBruce MeadeSteve RognessJudy RoyJames RussMargie RyanMark Shanfeld, MDAndy WellsRod Will, MD

Sanford Health VISIONImproving the human condition through exceptional care, innovation and discovery.

Sanford Health MISSIONDedicated to the work of health and healing.

Providing the highest level of care is important to us and we welcome your comments. Please feel free to contact our Patient Relations Department at (218) 333-5996 or provide feedback through our web site at bemidji.sanfordhealth.org.

PulsationsA Sanford Health of Northern Minnesota publication.

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