July 7, 2015 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Happy Birthday to the Dalai Lama: ‘Loving Kindness’ Meditation Used in Healthcare

Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind & Spirit

Happy Birthday to Nobel Peace Prize Winner, the Dalai Lama. July 6th was the Dalai Lama’s 80th Birthday. This seems a good time to be blogging about ‘peace and compassion.’ For his birthday, the Dalai Lama has asked that people share his ‘8 Lessons.’ Here they are –

8 Lessons on Life from the Dalai Lama (As seen in the Huffington Post.)

Live life with a free mind and an open heart.
Practice “universal compassion.”
Redesign the way we educate.
Stand up against injustice.
Make humanity the bottom line of business.
Always lend a helping hand.
Play your part in healing the Earth.
Use your personal power to be a force for good.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2015/07/06/dalai-lama-birthday-lessons_n_7697616.html

‘Loving Kindness Meditation,’ and its Use in Healthcare –

Treatment for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.

The results of this pilot study – “overall, loving-kindness meditation appeared safe and acceptable and was associated with reduced symptoms of PTSD and depression. Additional study of loving-kindness meditation for PTSD is warranted to determine whether the changes seen are due to the loving-kindness meditation intervention versus other influences, including concurrent receipt of other treatments.”

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23893519

A Tool to Improve Healthcare Provider Compassion, Resilience, and Patient Care.

http://ccare.stanford.edu/article/loving-kindness-meditation-a-tool-to-improve-healthcare-provider-compassion-resilience-and-patient-care/#sthash.m8M8xriS.dpuf

The Summer of Peace. Stanford University is hosting a global compassion summit. July 7 – 9th.

http://ccare.stanford.edu/events/global-compassion-summit/

“Love and compassion are necessities, not luxuries. Without them, humanity cannot survive.” ~ Dalai Lama XIV. The Art of Happiness.

Celebrating the Summer of Peace

‘Peace within,’ has a way of rippling out to others. May You Enjoy a ‘Summer of Peace’ here on Cape Ann, and wherever you go, or wherever you are. Peace. ~ Karen

For more information and research on mindful meditation, ‘loving-kindness’ meditation, and other relaxation tools for stress and pain management, you can contact me via email – info@dreamtimewellness.com.

Karen Pischke B.S.N., R.N. Owner/Founder of Dreamtime Wellness™ Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind & Spirit www.DreamtimeWellness.com. Find us on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/pages/Dreamtime-Wellness-/348619611849199

Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and discussion about health and related subjects. The words and other content provided in this blog, and in any linked materials, are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice. If the reader or any other person has a medical concern, he or she should consult with an appropriately licensed physician or other health care worker. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this blog or in any linked materials. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately. The views expressed on this blog and website have no relation to those of any academic, hospital, practice or other institution with which the authors are affiliated.

July 2, 2015 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Reiki Share to Benefit ‘Reid’s Ride’ – Raising Funds for Adolescents and Young Adults with Cancer

Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind & Spirit

July 7th. ‘Community Reiki Share’ to Benefit ‘Reid’s Ride.’

‘Community Reiki Share.’ 5:15 pm – 8:15 pm at the Manchester Community Center. 40 Beach St. Manchester-by-the-Sea. On the MBTA Train line; wheelchair accessible. Reiki Sessions ‘By Donation.’ $20.00 suggested donation. ($10.00 for Seniors.) Make Checks Payable to ‘Reid’s Ride.’

To find out more about Reid’s Ride and how you can participate and donate – http://www.firstgiving.com/Reidsride/2015-11th-annual-reids-ride. Join Lorraine and Deb Sacco and their wonderful group of organizers and participants! Just being there is energizing!

Each month a local charity is designated to receive a portion of the proceeds. Using ‘Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs’ to select which charity to team with, the first step being – Basic Physiological Needs (Air, Water, Food, Shelter.) The steps to ‘Realizing One’s Full Potential!’

Charities we have partnered with include – Open Door Food Pantry, Beverly Boot Straps, (January,) Wellspring House (February,) Action Inc. (March,) Cape Ann Animal Aid (April,) SeniorCare, Inc. (May,) Relay for Life, Cape Ann (June,) and for July – Reid’s Ride.

July 19. Teams participate and bicycle from Lynnfield to Stage Fort Park Gloucester MA to raise money to support the Reid R. Sacco Foundation for Adolescents and Young Adults – http://www.cancerinyoungadults.org/about-the-alliance/

Too many lives…, my family, friends, neighbors, and patients have been touched by this disease. Join us and help raise money for this important cause while enjoying some ‘peace, comfort and calm’ at the July 7th Community Reiki Share!

Continue reading →

July 1, 2015 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Despite Torrential Rain, NSMC Cancer Walk a Success!

A Good Day for Ducks, Fund Raising and Lots of Enthusiasm! Sunday’s weather brought torrential rain, but it didn’t keep participants from walking at the 25th Anniversary North Shore Medical Center’s Cancer Walk. Over 2,000 people walked in the midst of the storm.

Lynn Daily Item Report – http://www.itemlive.com/news/cancer-walk-rains-in-money/article_c8aed3c4-1e18-11e5-aee9-2bfc34f2cd78.html

Most people planned ahead and prepared for the rain …,

NSMC Cancer Walk 2015 Enthusiastic Wet Crowd

A Wet But Enthusiastic Crowd.

Seeking Shelter From the Rain.

NSMC Cancer Walk Finish Line FullSizeRender

Congratulations!

… but a few were caught out in the cold in just shorts and a tee-shirt. One lucky dog was able to snag a poncho and find shelter under a table.

Congratulations to all the walkers! Some were walking for themselves, others in memory and in honor of loved ones. One woman told me after she, “I lost 50 pounds to get in shape for the walk,” and was “walking in memory of her father.” He must be so proud! One thing for sure ….

You’ve Got to Have Heart

and HOPE Never Stops!

HOPE

~ Remembering those we’ve lost. ~ Honoring and supporting those in treatment. ~

~ Commemorating survivors. ~ With Gratitude. ~

Continue reading →

June 25, 2015 by sleland

Wind Down Wednesdays at MAC!

Manchester Athletic Club is now featuring Wind Down Wednesdays. Bring your family over and enjoy a different event at the outdoor pool most Wednesday nights throughout the summer. This Wednesday (7/1)… Pizza Night from 5:00-7:00 PM! $6.00 per person for pizza, fun in our outdoor pool, specialty cocktails, beer and wine and a little R & R! Enjoy our JD Summer Series and let the kids get their energy out before bed. Each week we alternate basketball and street Hockey- ages 5-12, completely free of charge and open to the community!

June 24, 2015 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

NSMC Cancer Walk – Celebration of Life, Hope and Courage. This is Worth Going Over the Bridge For!

A Celebration of Life, Hope and Courage. NSMC Cancer Walk. Sunday. June 28th. 7:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. At the Salem Willows.

This Year is the 25th Anniversary of the North Shore Medical Center’s Cancer Walk. Money raised from the North Shore Cancer WALK/RUN will support the construction of the new inpatient oncology unit at North Shore Medical Center as well as wellness services and support programs at the Mass General/North Shore Cancer Center in Danvers, MA.

This event is worth going ‘over the bridge’ for! Cape Ann/Gloucester has a wonderful oncology department at Addison Gilbert, but many Cape Ann and north shore residents also use the facilities at MGH/NS Cancer Center in Danvers for cancer treatment and follow-up.

For information on this event, to participate or donate –

http://events.salem.org/event/nsmc_cancer_walk#.VYqgJ-uvv1o

https://www.facebook.com/NorthShoreCancerWALKRUN

https://nsmcgiving.partners.org

Sample Reiki Sessions from 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. at the ‘Wellness Tent.’ Free to participants of the Relay. ‘By Donation’ for others. (100% of Donations to Benefit the NSMC Cancer Walk.) Come and enjoy a sample of Reiki for ‘relaxation, rest and renewal.’ (Massage Therapists will be there too!) Dreamtime Wellness™ will be there, along with nurse Nancy Earabino, a Reiki Teacher and Reiki Provider for NSMC Wellness.

Reiki – (ray-kee) is a Japanese Healing Method/Art that began in 1922 with founder, Mikao Usui Sensei. Reiki sessions are offered through light (or non) touch and without manipulation. Generally considered safe, Reiki is offered in the oncology settings as part of comprehensive integrative medicine departments. Preliminary studies indicate a potential for relief of anxiety and pain with Reiki. More rigorous, larger studies are needed.

Reiki in Hospitals and Healthcare

Integrative Healthcare – Key words – Collaborative, Comprehensive, Safe, Effective, Care. In the oncology setting, complementary integrative therapies such as acupuncture, massage, meditation, Reiki and yoga are offered primarily as supportive care for symptom management, such as:

Relief of anxiety,
Improved sleep,
Improved comfort,
Improved quality of life,
Greater sense of wellbeing.

Note – Reiki and other Complementary Therapies are not meant to replace or ‘take the place of” conventional (western/mainstream) medicine, but are best offered ‘in combination’ and after rigorous studies have been done to verify safety and effectiveness. “Integrative medicine“combines mainstream medical therapies and Complementary and Integrative medicine (IM) therapies for which there is some high-quality scientific evidence of safety and effectiveness.”

Ask your physician/oncologist beforehand about using CAM. Start the conversation – If you are using CAM therapies, let your physician/oncologist know. **Some supplements/herbs/over the counter medications may interact with and/or negatively affect your treatment. ‘When in doubt, check it out’ and talk to your physician! Trust, rapport and open communication are important for safe, effective care.

Sources and more information on Reiki Therapy and other Complementary & Integrative Therapies for patients undergoing treatment for cancer and how to choose a qualified provider –

Having offered Reiki as the RN/Reiki Provider at NSMC for 12 years and the MGH Cancer Center for 9 years, this event is especially close to my heart. During that time, I saw many of my friends, neighbors and their families when they were there for cancer treatment. It was an honor and a privilege to help support them through their care and hopefully make their treatment more bearable, and their lives a little more comfortable. ~ Karen Pischke BSN, RN, Reiki Provider & Teacher

Patients receiving Reiki while undergoing treatment for cancer have often relayed “a greater sense of HOPE.”

“Hope is the thing with feathers– That perches in the soul– And sings the tune without words– And never stops–at all…” – Emily Dickinson

Bird feather on water surface with free space for text

HOPE Never Stops

~ Remembering those we’ve lost. ~ Honoring and supporting those in treatment. ~

~ Commemorating survivors. ~ With Gratitude. ~

Karen Pischke B.S.N., R.N., Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist, Reiki Teacher/Shihan, Tobacco Treatment Specialist. In addition to a private wellness business, Karen has been employed as the RN/Reiki Provider and Hypnotherapist at NSMC, RN/Reiki Provider at Mass General Cancer Center (Danvers and Boston,) and currently is the RN/Reiki Provider at Lahey Danvers Outpatient Center/for the Pain Management Integrative Healthcare. Owner/Founder of Dreamtime Wellness™ Since 2000. Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind & Spirit. More information can be found at –www.DreamtimeWellness.com. Follow on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/pages/Dreamtime-Wellness-/348619611849199

June 24, 2015 by Joey Ciaramitaro

GFD Awarded

Last week EMS Coordinator Sander Schultz was awarded for his knowledge, experience, passion and energy that he brings to the Paul Coverdale National Acute Stroke program. This program and its collaborative committee which Sander is a key pre-hospital partner is setting policy not only in the Commonwealth but leading the Nation in an effort to directly impact patient outcomes by improving stroke care from the time of call to 911 through discharge of the patient to their home. Please see the attached Press Release and picture from the award ceremony.

The Department is very proud and fortunate to have Sander representing not only the Gloucester Fire Department but pre-hospital EMS care providers as a critical partner in the patient care continuum for stroke victims.

Best regards,

Eric L. Smith

Fire Chief

City of Gloucester Fire Department

Firefighter/EMS Coordinator Sander Schultz received the 2015 Coverdell EMS Collaborative Star Award from the Paul Coverdell National Acute Stroke Program at the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH). This award recognizes one EMS coordinator who has provided outstanding leadership to the Coverdell EMS Collaborative.
The Massachusetts Paul Coverdell National Acute Stroke Program relies on shared learning to raise the quality of care for stroke patients by EMS agencies EMS Coordinator Schultz is a leader dedicated to providing exceptional care, and committed to sharing his expertise with his Coverdell EMS Collaborative colleagues.
“The Star Award was given to EMS Coordinator Schultz, is recognition of his exceptional leadership in stroke care at over many years,” said Fire Chief Eric Smith, “We’re grateful the Massachusetts Paul Coverdell National Acute Stroke Program has provided this opportunity for Sander to share his knowledge, experience and passion with other Primary Stroke Service hospitals.”
Stroke is the fourth-leading cause of death in the Commonwealth, and a leading cause of adult disability. Immediate assessment and treatment is critical to help improve outcomes.
Knowing the key signs and symptoms of stroke and calling 9-1-1 immediately can save a life. The F.A.S.T. acronym is an easy way to remember:
• Face: Does the face look uneven? Ask the person to smile
• Arm: Does one arm drift down? Ask the person to raise both arms
• Speech: Does the speech sound strange? Ask the person to repeat a phrase
• Time: If you observe these symptoms, call 9-1-1
For more information the Massachusetts Paul Coverdell National Acute Stroke Registry, or about FAST and the DPH stroke awareness campaign, here: www.mass.gov/dph/heartstroke .

June 24, 2015 by Joey Ciaramitaro

Addison Gilbert Announces $150,000 Challenge Grant

The Addison Gilbert Society, a division of Addison Gilbert Hospital, received a $150,000 challenge from Gloucester residents Mollie and John Byrnes, inviting the community to join them in support of the brand new Cardiology Suite that opened this past spring.

“Addison Gilbert Hospital is committed to providing our patients with expanded, high-quality cardiac care conveniently located under one roof,” said Cindy Cafasso Donaldson, Vice President, Addison Gilbert Hospital. “We are grateful to the Byrnes family for offering this challenge, as this new Cardiology Suite offers the opportunity for a transformational change in how our Cape Ann patients can access needed care. Through the Addison Gilbert Society, residents can help invest in the next generation of care right here at Addison Gilbert Hospital. ”

The Byrnes family has been utilizing the services at Addison Gilbert Hospital since John was 5-years-old when he broke his arm after he fell out of an apple tree. They continued using the hospital for their children and have always appreciated the high quality care they have received at home in Gloucester. They offered this challenge to support a cardiology unit that has been an important part of the couple’s lives.

Both John and Mollie have a history of heart disease in their family, so supporting a service that has been so critical in their lives was an easy decision.

“We are pleased to support the new Cardiology Suite at Addison Gilbert Hospital,” said Mollie and John Byrnes. “It’s so important for the community to have cardiac services close to home. We hope others in Gloucester appreciate the value of services like these and help us ensure that they remain in of our community.”

This modern cardiology suite is located adjacent to the main entrance of the hospital. The new suite has prominent visibility and expanded access, easing cardiology visits for patients and their family members. It includes two new physician offices; two well-equipped patient exam rooms; an easy-to-navigate registration area; plus a spacious, serene patient and family waiting room. By co-locating the Cardiology Suite within the walls of Addison Gilbert Hospital, patients can receive a broad continuum of cardiology services all under one roof for efficient and exceptional care.

“Here on Cape Ann, we have a population at high-risk for cardiac disease,” said Michael Arsenian, MD, cardiologist. “These patients deserve high-quality care as close to home as possible. We do not want to add to the burden of logistical challenges to weak, tired or stressed patients and their family members. This new Cardiology Suite will avoid that: Our patients will be able to receive the range of cardiology services they need — without delay and all right here at Addison Gilbert Hospital.”

The Addison Gilbert Society will be honoring John and Mollie Byrnes on July 16 at its Gloucester Harbor fundraising cruise benefiting cardiology care.

For more information or to make a gift, please contact Rebecca Imperiali at 978.236.1624 or Rebecca.Imperiali@Lahey.org .

June 21, 2015 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Summer Solstice Celebration and Meditation Event

Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind & Spirit

Summer Solstice Celebration and Meditation Event. Monday. June 22. 5:30 – 8:00 pm. Learn and participate in simple meditation techniques as we celebrate the long-awaited beginning of summer.

June 21st is the official Summer Solstice. This marks the beginning of summer and longest amount of daylight. An especially welcome sight for many after New England’s harsh winter!

This event begins with ‘tea and conversation’ at Gloucester’s beloved Willow Rest Restaurant. Fun, funky, and always interesting, the Willow Rest Restaurant at 1 Holly St. is a great starting point for the evening. Here you will enjoy local fare while receiving orientation to meditation.

Fresh Food and Fun at the Willow Rest Restaurant

Space is limited. Advance Registration Required. $20.00 per person. To Register – Contact us at info@dreamtimewellness.com or Call 978-283-4258. Plan ahead! (Weather permitting, some of this event will be held outdoors in nature and in the woods.) Bring bug spray (tick and mosquito,) a hat, drinking water and a blanket or folding chair. Light colored clothes, light-weight long sleeve shirt, pants and sturdy walking shoes advised.

Weather permitting, we will enjoy a ‘walking meditation’ in Gloucester’s historic dog down. No meditation experience necessary. Instruction will be given and guided meditation offered.

Goose Cove Reservoir

‘Meditation made easy’ – the goal of this event. Meditation can be easy with simple instruction. Join us for this peaceful, relaxing event and enjoy the health benefits of meditation. Contact us for details and to register.

Sunset Over the Annisquam Welcoming Summer Solstice

Happy Solstice! ~ Karen

June 19, 2015 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Reiki Sample Sessions Offered at Relay for Life, Cape Ann. Saturday. June 20th

Relay for Life Cape Ann

Saturday. June 20th. Relay for Life, Cape Ann. https://www.facebook.com/RFLCapeAnn

In its 14th year the Relay for Life, Cape Ann raises money for the American Cancer Society. www.cancer.org.

Relay for Life, Cape Ann. 12:00 pm – 10:00 pm. Burnham Field. Gloucester MA.

To find out more about the Relay for Life and how you can donate –

http://relay.acsevents.org/site/PageServer?pagename=relay&gclid=CjwKEAjw2ImsBRCnjq70n_amv14SJAChXijNp8Zf6-booTwVcvLzEMaG31vveM7DlrXCUpMBe0O38RoCTxbw_wcB

Sample Reiki Sessions from 3:00 – 7:00 pm at the Survivors Tent.

Free to participants of the Relay. ‘By Donation’ for others. (100% of Donations to Benefit the Relay for Life.) Join us if you can, and enjoy a sample of Reiki for relaxation, rest and renewal.

Reiki in Healthcare and Hospitals

Having worked with many patients/clients receiving treatment for cancer, initially as a bedside nurse and now as an RN/Reiki Provider, this event speaks to my heart. These patients undergoing treatment for cancer and receiving Reiki have relayed “a greater sense of HOPE.”

“Hope is the thing with feathers– That perches in the soul– And sings the tune without words– And never stops–at all…” – Emily Dickinson

HOPE Never Stops

~ Remembering those we’ve lost. Honoring and supporting those in treatment. ~

~ Commemorating survivors …, with Gratitude. ~

June 18, 2015 by Karen Pischke BSN, RN

Continuing Education Lecture for Healthcare Providers – Introduction to Reiki

Introduction to Reiki Ryoho in Healthcare. Lecture. Monday. June 22. 8:00 a.m. 9:30 a.m. Beverly Hospital Lecture Hall. 85 Herrick St. Beverly, MA.

Begins with a networking breakfast followed by a one hour lecture. Learn about the history of Reiki Ryoho (Japanese Healing Method/Art,) its use in healthcare, potential benefits and related research. Reiki is offered in integrative healthcare programs and hospital programs in the U.S.

Reiki Ryoho in Healthcare and Hospitals

A Sen-Net meeting. Sponsored by Lahey Senior Care, a Division of Lahey Health.

Continuing Education for Nurses, Case Managers and Social Workers. This continuing nursing education activity has been approved by the Northeast Multi-State Division (NE-MSD), an accredited approver by the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Commission on Accreditation. This program has been pre-approved by The Commission for Case Manager Certification to provide continuing education credit to CCM board certified case managers. “This program has been approved for 1.0 Social Work Continuing Education hours for relicensure, in accordance with 258 CMR. Collaborative of NASW and the Boston College and Simmons Schools of Social Work.

Advance Registration Required – To Register, contact Paul D. Rapazzo, Director of Community Relations, The Herrick House. 89 Herrick St. Beverly, MA. 01915-2721. Office :978-524-4292. Fax:978-922-3402. Register by June 19th.