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Restored: Muscle cars and torn muscles

Taking a worn-down, broken muscle car and transforming it into a flashy fresh ride takes time, skills and finances, but John Rusinko and his wife Haddi say it’s worth it. They spend retirement side by side, saving vintage vehicles from rusty fates by restoring them into gorgeous, roaring rides. 

Last year, John’s attention broadened from restoring muscle cars to restoring muscle when he was thrown from his lawn mower after sliding down a steep hill on his property.  

“I believe that’s when I hurt my hamstring,” he said. “A month later, I went hunting and fell.” 

For the next several months, John lived with a sharp, stabbing pain. An MRI revealed a partially torn hamstring muscle. Despite steroid injections and physical therapy, the pain remained. Then he met Brenton Bohlig, M.D., a Fellowship-trained and Board-certified Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Specialist at Genesis Orthopedic Sports Medicine, who recommended a platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection. 

Brenton Bohlig, M.D.

Brenton Bohlig, M.D.
Fellowship-trained and Board-certified
Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Specialist
Genesis Orthopedic Sports Medicine

Accelerate healing by fueling up  

PRP treatments use the patient’s blood cells to accelerate healing. To create the platelet-rich plasma, a sample of whole blood is usually drawn from the arm and then placed into a device called a centrifuge. The centrifuge spins until the platelets separate and become concentrated within the blood’s plasma. This platelet-dense precious plasma can fuel and accelerate healing when injected directly into an injured area.  

“Using platelet-rich plasma harnesses the body’s natural healing ability,” said Dr. Bohlig. The injection utilizes the patient’s blood as the activating agent, so patients sidestep adverse reactions that may come with medications or foreign substances. 

“It’s a more natural way. Harnessing the proteins and growth factors that promote healing lets your body do what it’s meant to do. We simply direct where the healing takes place. It’s wonderful to see how this treatment benefits people with partially torn tendons and ligaments,” Dr. Bohlig said. 

PRP injections deliver results 

On the day of the injection, Dr. Bohlig told John not to anticipate results for about six weeks. John waited patiently, and relief came right on cue. 

“Within the seventh week, I was walking fine. Before, it felt like someone had stuck a knife in me and never pulled it out, but after those six weeks, I had no pain. All because of my blood,” he said. “No medications, no therapy, just my blood.” 

Guiding patients on the road to recovery 

With his hamstring healed, John returned to living his best life. He remains pain-free more than a year after the PRP injection. He hunts, chops wood and cares for his land. On most days, John uses his restored hamstring to twist and turn around the vehicles he and his wife enjoy restoring.  

For Dr. Bohlig, success stories like John’s fuel his desire to restore people to their best quality of life. “It’s great to see people return after treatment,” he said. “Where there was a grimace on their face from pain with certain movements, there’s now a smile as they show off what they can do. I’m thrilled that we can provide the care they need on the road to rec

Restored: Muscle Cars and Torn Muscles

Taking a worn-down, broken muscle car and transforming it into a flashy fresh ride takes time, skills and finances, but John Rusinko and his wife Haddi say it’s worth it.

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Portion control and power walking

A few years ago, Tim Lewis of Coshocton, Ohio, had trouble doing most things. He was morbidly obese, suffered from emphysema and had trouble sleeping. He was constantly out of breath and could barely walk from room to room in his house.  

Tim knew he had to do something about his health because he is a single father to a preteen daughter.  “It was hard for me to go to school and athletic events and fun things she enjoys, like shopping,” he said. “I had to find a way to take better care of myself, so I could take care of her.”  

A Transformation Takes Root

Unfortunately, his health was so poor that Tim suffered two heart attacks in the summer of 2021. After the second heart attack, he had stents put in at Genesis Hospital, which he said helped with his breathing. After his discharge, Tim was worried about recovery. “I knew I needed to eat better and exercise to get back on track, but I didn’t feel like I had the energy to do anything. I felt so fragile,” he said.  

Then he noticed something that turned out to be the key to a complete transformation in his health and life. “I got home and saw that I’d lost 20 pounds during my hospital stay. I was happy about it but couldn’t figure out how it happened.”   

At his first check-up with Christy Zigo, APRN-CNP, Nurse Practitioner at the Genesis Heart & Vascular Group in Coshocton, Tim told her about his fear of not being able to recover fully.  

Zigo took the time to discuss his treatment, recovery plan and the future at length. Reassured about many of his concerns, Tim asked how he could have dropped 20 pounds so quickly.  

“When Tim came to the office, he was motivated to improve his health and unsure how he had made such progress while in the hospital,” said Zigo. “I explained that while in the hospital, Genesis dietitians planned his meals to follow the portion, caloric and nutritional guidelines for his illness. In a nutshell, portion control.” 

Christy Zigo APRN-CNP

Christy Zigo, APRN-CNP
Nurse Practitioner
Genesis Heart & Vascular Group

Half his size and completely whole  

At home, Tim adopted the hospital menu. “Portion control and encouragement from the Genesis nurses and specialists worked wonders for me,” said Tim. He also started walking daily. He was so dedicated to following both regimens that he lost 190 pounds in 13 months. “Walking is my number one hobby now,” he said. He leaves his house every day before noon and walks a few different routes he’s created throughout the city of Coshocton.   

Since he started working with the Genesis Heart and Vascular team, Tim said that everything has improved for himself and his daughter. He feels better, and she is happy to have a more active dad. “I want to tell my story to everyone,” he said. “I am so grateful to Genesis for getting the ball rolling for me.”   

Portion Control and Power Walking

A few years ago, Tim Lewis of Coshocton, Ohio, had trouble doing most things. He was morbidly obese, suffered from emphysema and had trouble sleeping. He was constantly out of breath and could barely walk from room to room in his house.

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Nursing professor becomes the patient

Pamela Sealover is a wife, mother and grandmother. She is also the proud owner of one goldendoodle named Daisy. Pamela is a nursing professor at Ohio University Zanesville and has worked there for 25 years.  

Not long ago, she noticed concerning symptoms. Pamela called the Genesis Breast Care Center and immediately got an appointment. The team at the Breast Care Center diagnosed her with breast cancer and developed a plan for Pamela to treat the disease and win.  

“I had confidence in Genesis because of the excellent care they gave my husband during his cancer treatment,” Pamela said about her treatment plan.  

 

Bilateral diagnosis  

At the Genesis Breast Care Center, she was diagnosed with a slow-growing tumor in the right breast and a more aggressive tumor in the left breast. The care team at the Breast Care Center advised Pamela to start with chemotherapy for 24 weeks, and after the treatment, they would determine the next steps.  

Shyamal R. Bastola, M.D., Fellowship-trained and Board-certified Hematologist/Oncologist at the Genesis Cancer Care Center, cared for Pamela during her treatment. Chemotherapy is a common treatment for cancer. It was the best option for Pamela. The length of chemotherapy varies from person to person. With the help of the Cancer Care Center, Pamela began chemotherapy soon after her diagnosis.  

“A lot of students I had in class were taking care of me at the Cancer Care Center,” Pamela said. “I knew I was in good hands.” On her last day of chemotherapy, Pamela’s coworkers celebrated with her. They performed a skit visible from the Cancer Care Center’s windows. It brought smiles to everyone’s faces.  

 

Advanced treatment  

After Pamela went through chemotherapy, she had a bilateral mastectomy. Dr. Bastola scheduled a follow-up appointment to make sure the procedure had removed all the cancer. The results showed there was one lymph node that was still positive for cancer. The best solution to get rid of the cancer was radiation.  

Radiation therapy damages the genetic material of cancer cells, which stops their growth. This is one of the common treatments provided at Genesis. Radiation therapy can also be used for other types of cancer.  

Pamela and her doctors discussed the possibility of reconstructive surgery while she was preparing to get her bilateral mastectomy. After radiation and procedures, Pamela had reconstructive surgery.  

 

“If something is not right, get to a doctor to check out what is wrong and how to proceed.” 

Reconstruction of her life  

Today, Pamela is doing great and has recovered from her battle with breast cancer. Pamela gets screenings every six months at the Cancer Care Center to ensure there are no returning cancer cells. She also takes an anti-estrogen pill. These can help stop the growth of future cancer cells.  

Pamela was a part of the Genesis Celebrate Life National Cancer Survivors Day event for cancer survivors and supporters in June 2024. She told her story to those in attendance and stressed the importance of scheduling an annual mammogram to make sure there are no signs of breast cancer. And she has advice for others when it comes to listening to your body.  

“If something is not right,” said Pamela, “get to a doctor to check out what is wrong and how to proceed.” The faster a medical professional can identify the problem, the quicker it is to develop a treatment plan.  

“At the Genesis Cancer Care Center, we make a cancer treatment plan that is catered to you,” said Dr. Bastola. “We are happy Pamela is doing well, continuing to live her life to the fullest and bringing awareness to early symptoms of breast cancer.” 

 

Pamela Sealover

Chemotherapy is a common treatment for cancer. It was the best option for Pamela.

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It’s personal: Your body, your cancer care

“I’m the duckbilled platypus of my family,” Sherry Sims said with a giggle. “I have body parts no one else has.” Sherry further explained her humorous self-description by saying she has strong legs that can easily press 200 lbs. and a tiny upper body that can’t manage a pull-up. 

Although comfortable with her differences, there was a family trait Sherry tried to avoid. Two maternal aunts battled breast cancer. One of them passed away from the disease. “I always knew cancer was possible,” she said, “but you never think it’s going to happen to you.” 

Due to her family medical history, Sherry religiously performed monthly breast self-examinations. “I never even thought of missing an annual mammogram,” she said.  

That is, until COVID-19 swept the country. “I almost ignored a yearly mammogram because of COVID-19. However, when it was time for my mammogram, I figured if they’re brave enough to offer the screening, I should be brave enough to get one,” Sherry said. “If I had waited another year, I don’t know what my prognosis would have been. It could have been a totally different outcome.”  

Sherry’s mammogram revealed a suspicious shadow on her right breast, so she received a biopsy at the Genesis Cancer Care Center. The result was a diagnosis of ER-positive, HER2 negative breast cancer. 

Empowered Choices  

Once diagnosed, a nurse navigator explained three surgery options to Sherry and her husband. She could have the tumor removed (a lumpectomy), the entire breast and tumor removed (a mastectomy), or both breasts and the tumor removed (a double mastectomy). She didn’t want to worry about reoccurring cancer, so she chose a double mastectomy without reconstruction.  

A specialized surgeon at the Genesis Cancer Care Center removed a golf-ball sized tumor buried deep in Sherry’s chest wall. The surgical team also gathered tissues from the cancerous tumor to submit for genetic testing. 

“Based on the results, Sherry’s cancer cells are not sensitive to chemotherapy,” said Shyamal Bastola, M.D., a Fellowship-trained and Board-certified Hematologist/Oncologist at the Genesis Cancer Care Center.  

“The results also revealed that Sherry’s cancer has a phenomenal probability of being cured with hormone therapy.” With that evidence-based knowledge, Sherry began a daily hormone therapy regimen that will last a minimum of five years. 

“In some ways, it would be more appropriate to call this hormone therapy, ‘anti-estrogen therapy,’” Dr. Bastola said. “Because estrogen receptor positive (ER positive) breast cancers feed on estrogen, we use the treatment to drastically decrease that female hormone within the body.”  

An individualized approach  

Feeling grateful for hormone therapy and the attentive, expert care she received, Sherry said she’ll never forget the people at the Genesis Cancer Care Center. “These people are like my family now,” Sherry said. “They treated me how I wanted to be treated.” 

According to Dr. Bastola, Sherry’s phrase, “They treated me how I wanted to be treated,” holds the key to Genesis’ successful, compassionate cancer care. “We want to give each patient a personalized approach,” he said. “Everyone’s priorities and concerns are different. For example, some women feel scared about losing their breasts, and others don’t care or don’t want them anymore.”  

Dr. Bastola continued, “We strive to meet our patients where they are and do our best to treat them as individuals. That’s the great advantage of care at Genesis. Our care is much more personal.”

Sherry Sims

Sherry’s mammogram revealed a suspicious shadow on her right breast, so she received a biopsy at the Genesis Cancer Care Center.

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Immunotherapy extended Judy's life

After mentioning a persistent cough to her primary care doctor, Judy Medley saw a lung specialist every six months. He eventually referred her to Shyamal Bastola, M.D., Fellowship-trained and Board-certified Hematologist Oncologist at the Genesis Cancer Care Center.

“When I went to see Dr. Bastola, I had no idea it was cancer,” Judy said. “Dr. Bastola spoke kindly, with truth and honesty. He said I needed to get things squared away for myself. I had stage 4 lung cancer, and without the treatment, I had about six months to live.”

Shock flooded Judy’s senses, and tears streamed down her face. She wanted to spend time with her children, grandchildren and new greatgrandchildren. She wanted to live.

Dr. Bastola told Judy that chemotherapy might extend her life. So, she went to the Genesis Cancer Care Center multiple times a week for two months. While the chemo drained her energy, she hoped it was also draining the cancer cells that swarmed her lungs and had spread to her liver. At the end of chemo, she went with her family to their favorite place, Myrtle Beach, for a celebration.

Yet the celebration took place too soon. Upon returning from the beach, Dr. Bastola reviewed the latest scans and shared the bad news that the cancer had not gone away.

“He said, ‘Judy, we have something new we can try.’ Then he told me about immunotherapy.”

“The immunotherapy approach we chose for Judy was nivolumab, which aims to enhance the immune system to fight cancer cells,” said Dr. Bastola.

Judy went to the Genesis Cancer Care Center every other week to have the medication delivered intravenously.

“After three months of treatment, we did a scan, and Dr. Bastola said to me, ‘Guess what … the tumors have shrunk by 50%.’ I jumped up and hugged him. I was so happy,” Judy said.

Judy continued immunotherapy treatment for another three years. Her tumors continued shrinking, and her body stabilized.

“At first, I went to get scans and see Dr. Bastola every three months, but now we only see each other every six months, and he’s talking about extending it to once a year.”

Judy has lived seven years longer than she first thought possible, and she’s going strong. She plans to continue celebrating life by living each day to its fullest and visiting the beach as often as possible with her eight great-grandchildren, four grandchildren, two children and Jack, her husband of 33 years.

 

 

Immunotherapy aims to enhance the immune system to fight cancer cells.

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Heartfelt heart repair

The hills in Morgan County roll endlessly. 

“Nature’s rollercoasters,” said Elizabeth Frash, who regularly walks several hilly routes. Still, when she started having trouble breathing and feeling pressure in her chest on her walks, she knew something in her body needed attention.  

Initially, Elizabeth pushed the symptoms aside, as her husband was battling cancer. “I was more concerned with him than taking care of myself. I didn’t want to leave his side. However, he knew how important my heart is, and he told me to get it checked,” Elizabeth said.  

It’s a good thing he did, and an even better thing that she listened. 

Avoiding open heart surgery  

Eight years ago, Elizabeth underwent an emergency open heart surgery to replace two heart valves. Her mitral and aortic valves, which help keep blood flowing in the proper direction, had narrowed severely. That narrowing caused stress on her heart muscle and caused an extreme case of irregular, rapid rhythm called atrial fibrillation. 

“Valves narrowing within heart arteries is dangerous,” said Mohammed Ahmed, M.D., Fellowship-trained and Board-certified Interventional Cardiologist at the Genesis Heart & Vascular Institute. “Eight years ago, open heart surgery was the only answer to repair her mitral valve. Today, less invasive, innovative options are available at Genesis, and Elizabeth was a good candidate for the procedures.” 

Over time, Elizabeth’s replacement valves deteriorated. That’s why breathing became difficult as she walked. She needed valve replacements to ensure proper blood flow. 

Duane Pool, M.D., Board-certified in Cardiovascular Disease and Elizabeth’s primary heart physician, told her about the minimally invasive cardiovascular procedures that would allow her to bypass a second open heart surgery.  

“Having heart surgery is not something anyone wants, but what were my alternatives? I couldn’t go on not being able to breathe and wondering if my heart would keep pumping without proper valves,” Elizabeth said. “I was glad there was an option other than open heart surgery.” 

Dr. Ahmed and a specialized team performed a transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) and, later, a transcatheter mitral valve implantation (TMVI). Both procedures involve inserting a catheter in the groin to guide instruments to the heart. Then, the surgical team inserted a new valve without needing to remove the old one. 

Dr. Ahmed said the Genesis team strives to provide compassionate heart care, recognizing that every patient is going through something difficult.  

“Valve repair is a big deal, especially for a patient taking care of someone they love. We want to be mindful of each patient’s struggles. The interactions before our procedures help our team learn what’s going on in our patients’ lives. The relationships formed are real, and the non-invasive procedures are life changers. Together, it’s very rewarding,” Dr. Ahmed said. 

Elizabeth is walking the hills of Morgan County again. Thinking back on her experiences, Elizabeth said she will continue choosing Genesis for treatment. However, the biggest reason to choose Genesis is the people.  

“Everyone was wonderful,” Elizabeth said. “I know they cared about me.” 

Elizabeth Frash

Duane Pool, M.D. told Elizabeth about the minimally invasive cardiovascular procedures that would allow her to bypass a second open heart surgery.

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A great place to restore your heart

Jim Hodges received four stents in 2005 to ensure proper blood flow to his heart, but several years later, he started having heart issues again. Little did he know, this was only a precursor to bigger heart problems.

“When Jim came to see me, he was experiencing worsening chest pain. He had unstable angina, meaning his heart wasn’t getting enough oxygen and blood,” said Alaa Gabi, M.D., Fellowship-trained and Board-certified Interventional Cardiologist at Genesis. “We found a 90% blockage in the back of his heart, so we put in another stent. He did well, and after the procedure, we sent him to cardiac rehabilitation, like we do all our patients who have a cardiac intervention.” Jim attended the Genesis Cardiac Rehabilitation Center two or three times a week for several months, building heart strength and stamina under the observation of specially trained healthcare professionals. Everything was going well until he felt lightheaded on his drive to the hospital for rehab one morning.

“I got on the first exercise machine at rehab and did well, but my lightheadedness became stronger when I got on the stationary bike,” Jim said. “My legs felt like they were losing energy. I couldn’t even push the pedal down. I knew I needed to sit down, and apparently, through the leads hooked to my chest, the rehab team could tell there was a problem.”

As Jim stopped exercising, his heart stopped too

“As Jim was in rehab and connected to monitors during exercise, we knew he experienced more than 10 seconds without a heartbeat. The good thing is, after brief resuscitation, his pulse came back,” Dr. Gabi said.

During Jim’s 10 seconds without a heartbeat, an exercise physiologist and a respiratory therapist at Genesis performed CPR on him. Meanwhile, a code blue alerted an emergency cardiac team within the hospital.

“By the time they got through pumping my chest, my heart was back in rhythm. I was the luckiest guy in the world to be at Genesis when my heart stopped,” said Jim.

Right place at the right time

“If this had happened when Jim was not at the rehabilitation center, his care would have been delayed,” Dr. Gabi said. “Anytime the brain is not getting enough blood, seconds make a difference. Immediate access to cardiac care helped him. Jim was in the ideal place for this to happen.”

Comprehensive cardiac and vascular care

Genesis’ nationally accredited cardiac care and lifesaving technology provide patients with immediate access to expert physicians who collaborate to give exceptional heart care during emergencies. Jim went from the Cardiac Rehabilitation Center to the Emergency Department for stabilization and then directly to the operating room. He received a pacemaker, a small device implanted in the upper chest to regulate the heartbeat.

“My heart stopped beating during my morningworkout, and I had a pacemaker placed by lunchtime,” Jim said. “I’m so thankful for everyone at Genesis who helped save my life.”

Now that Jim has a pacemaker to assist his heart, he’s noticed a tremendous upswing in energy and ability.

“I’m 81 years old, and I feel about 50. I haven’t felt this good in a long time,” said Jim.

“It’s just amazing to me. I’ve been on medication for the past two years, but now I’m feeling stronger. There’s a big difference between before the pacemaker and after,” he said.

Jim continues to go to the Genesis Cardiac Rehabilitation Center about three times a week, as it remains available to him even after completing cardiac rehab.

“Jim’s case is an example of how we need to increase awareness of heart disease and heart rhythm issues. People often feel dizzy or lightheaded, and there’s a good chance that it can be heart-related,” Dr. Gabi said. “If someone feels dizzy, fatigued and lightheaded or experiences fainting and vertigo, these can all be related to heart rhythm issues. They’re especially alarming for people with other risk factors for heart disease, like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking and a family history of heart disease. If you’re experiencing these symptoms, please see a doctor.”

 

 

Jim Hodges found himself in the right place at the right time.

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Genesis Cardiac Rehab: Strengthening hearts

Brian Cooper has a big heart – not just in how he cares but also anatomically. Brian was diagnosed with hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM). This is a complex disease that enlarges and thickens the heart muscle, reduces blood flow and can lead to sudden death.  

“My heart was too big,” Brian said. “What I have is rare, so I guess you can say I’m special and big-hearted.”  

 

Genesis Hospital: A place and people focused on healing hearts  

While some people with HOCM don’t feel symptoms, Brian experienced exhaustion, chest pain, heart fluttering, lightheadedness, shortness of breath and swollen feet and ankles. Plus, he constantly felt like his life was in jeopardy. Thankfully, Brian said Genesis Hospital’s experts vigilantly looked out for him.  

“I have a special love for the place and people.  They’ve kept me alive,” Brian said.  

Abdulhay Albirini, M.D., Fellowship-trained and Board-certified Interventional Cardiologist at the Genesis Heart & Vascular Institute, diagnosed Brian with HOCM. This wasn’t Dr. Albirini’s first life-saving interaction with Brian and his family.  

“I love that man,” Brian said. “My dad had two heart attacks, and Dr. Albirini saved him both times. This time, he saved me. He’s a doctor who cares about every patient.”  

“Diagnosing Brian’s disease was critical so he could receive the proper treatment,” said Dr. Albirini.  “However, it is also vital that he takes the appropriate action to recover and stay healthy.”  

After his diagnosis, Brian underwent open-heart surgery at a nearby facility as the first step to treating HOCM. His second step focused on strengthening his heart. That’s why he sought expertise at the Genesis Cardiac Rehabilitation Program.  

 

Genesis Cardiac Rehab: Gaining strength and stamina  

Logan Clark, Exercise Physiologist Therapist and Cardiac Rehabilitation Clinical Coordinator, watched Brian weakly enter the rehab center for the first time.  

It took everything Brian had. Once settled in, Logan taught Brian about the hope and healing that is possible through rehab.  

“At first, I was overwhelmed,” said Brian. “Then Logan said, ‘Surgery’s only 50% of the battle. Rehab is the other 50%.’ With his help, I knew I could get stronger.”  

Logan created a personalized exercise plan for Brian. During workouts, Logan monitored Brian’s heart and progress. A few weeks later, Brian’s endurance and strength showed tremendous growth.  

“Just by how he walked into rehab, we could see it making a difference,” said Logan. “He worked hard to get where he is. We gave him the tools, but it’s what he did with them that made the difference.”  

Initially, Brian had lost physical strength and gained unneeded weight due to HOCM and the related surgery. Thanks to his consistent diligence at Genesis Cardiac Rehab, Brian lost weight, gained muscle and significantly increased his stamina.  

A couple of years after surgery, Brian continues benefiting from cardiac rehab workouts.  

“I still go to cardiac rehab,” Brian said. “I go because they know my heart condition and want me to succeed. They keep me going.” 

 

 

Strengthening Hearts

Brian Cooper has a big heart – not just in how he cares but also anatomically.

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Be prepared for anything

Jason Richardson celebrated Father’s Day with his girlfriend, Amanda, his daughters and his family. They spent the day riding dirt bikes and cooking out.  It was a great day.  

After they returned home, as Jason was unloading the bikes from his truck, he began to feel feverish, and extremely thirsty. After guzzling a glass of water, his nausea became worse. He rushed to the bathroom and began to vomit. He experienced a sudden onset of severe abdominal pain as his nausea and sweating worsened. He asked Amanda to call 911, and he was rushed to the Genesis Hospital Emergency Department. This call saved his life. 

 

A surgeon identifies a rare and dangerous situation 

Edmund Kassis, M.D., Fellowship-trained and Board-certified Thoracic Surgeon and Medical Director of Thoracic Surgery at the Genesis Heart & Vascular Institute, was notified of Jason early Monday morning. After examining him and reviewing the CT scan, he quickly diagnosed Jason as having a rupture of the esophagus. The operating room was notified, and Jason was taken to the operating room to repair his life-threatening condition.  

Dr. Kassis drained the fluid and undigested food that escaped from the esophagus and then repaired the ruptured esophagus.  

“Jason suffered from Boerhaave syndrome,” said Dr. Kassis. “It is a rare problem where the esophagus tears. This happens most commonly after severe vomiting. It is a life-threatening condition, and delays in surgical treatment can be fatal.” 

After the surgery, Jason faced a long journey to recovery. He remained in the hospital for most of the summer to make sure the infection was controlled, and he was given nutritional support and time to allow his esophagus to heal. 

“I can’t thank Dr. Kassis and his team enough. They saved my life.” 

“It was hard to be in the hospital and away from my daughters,” said Jason. “I’m grateful for my family and friends for visiting and helping to care for my girls.   

I also appreciate Amanda, my girlfriend, for being by my side more than anyone could have expected.” 

 

Back to life 

After healing, Jason left the hospital and returned to work as a heavy equipment operator. He also learned his grandfather had suffered from the same thing many years before.  

“I can’t thank Dr. Kassis and his team enough,” said Jason. “They saved my life. They did a wonderful job.” 

“It feels good to return to life,” Jason said. “It sounds cliché, but once the little things are taken from you, you realize how much you missed them. Getting to be a dad. Going to work. I’ve also proposed to Amanda, and thankfully, she said yes. I am excited to start our lives together.” 

Jason Richardson

“I can’t thank Dr. Kassis and his team enough,” said Jason. “They saved my life. They did a wonderful job.” 

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Suffering from anxiety? Help is available.

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Submitted by emily.griffin on

There are approximately 57.8 million Americans living with a diagnosed mental illness. Despite the fact that the number translates to 1 in 5 adults, there’s still stigma attached to almost everything related to mental health. This sense of shame and reluctance to discuss disorders that affect the brain is why May is Mental Health Awareness Month.  

Jodi Dickson, R.N., at Genesis Behavioral Health, describes why it’s so important for people to be aware of their own mental health. “We are still fighting the stigma that mental health is different from physical health and that individuals control their mental health. Mental health is a medical concern. You’re looking at changes in brain chemistry.”   

For example, one of the most common mental health disorders is generalized anxiety disorder. “People will suffer from anxiety for a long time before asking for help,” said Dickson. “They’re too ashamed to ask for help because they believe they’re at fault. Once they understand the symptoms relate to an illness and we know how to treat those illnesses, we can start helping them feel like themselves again.”   

Generalized anxiety disorder 

Anxiety is normal, and everyone deals with it. If you are experiencing excessive anxiety for a six-month period, or it begins to interfere with your daily life, make an appointment with your primary care provider. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, 5.7% of Americans will experience generalized anxiety disorder at some point. 

What happens at the doctor’s office? 

Your doctor will likely rule out physical health issues or medication side effects with a physical exam.  

If there aren’t any physical causes behind your anxiety, your doctor may look for signals that you’re suffering from generalized anxiety disorder. These symptoms manifest in both physical and mental ways. Signs of generalized anxiety disorder can include: 

  • Inability to control excessive worrying    

  • Sleep difficulties 

  • Irritability 

  • Feeling frightened 

  • Difficulty concentrating 

  • Isolation from social support 

  • Muscle tensions and aches and pains 

  • Stomach pains, nausea, difficulty eating 

  • Rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath 

  • Needing to go to the bathroom more frequently 

On top of evaluating physical and emotional symptoms, your doctor may ask about your family history of anxiety.  

Generalized anxiety disorder treatment options 

If your doctor determines you are suffering from generalized anxiety disorder, there are treatments available. Treatment options are typically based on the level of anxiety you’re experiencing.  

Medication 

If your primary care provider determines that you’re suffering from generalized anxiety disorder, they may begin treatment,” said Dickson. “They may order a prescription specifically for anxiety or an anti-depressant to treat anxiety. Some folks respond wonderfully to these tools. When it becomes a more intense form of anxiety or the patient is not having success with medication, that’s when they refer to a specialist.” 

Cognitive behavioral therapy  

“While a physician may refer to a specialist for medication management, another component of treatment is cognitive behavioral therapy,” said Dickson. “This is a form of talk therapy with a trained therapist to process how you can change thought processes in your brain.” 

According to the American Psychological Foundation, numerous research studies suggest that cognitive behavioral therapy leads to improvement in functioning and quality of life.  

If you are suffering from extreme anxiety or any other mental health problem, help is available. Contact Genesis Behavioral Health at 740-454-4201. They can direct you to services available to meet your specific needs. 

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Suffering from Anxiety? Help is Available.

Shame and reluctance to discuss disorders that affect the brain is why May is Mental Health Awareness Month.  

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