Media Tip Sheet - July 2015

Girl Seizure-Free after Undergoing New Laser Surgery at Barrow

Reporters and Assignment Desk Editors: Barrow Neurological Institute will hold a press briefing on Thursday, July 16 to celebrate the success of a new revolutionary laser brain surgery that recently halted life-long seizures in a Florida girl. Holly Hudson, 12, suffered up to 50 seizures a month caused by a rare brain tumor that can lead progressive brain damage. She traveled to Phoenix from Florida for the groundbreaking surgery at Barrow. The surgery destroyed her tumor and remarkably, only required three stitches and a night’s stay in the hospital. Stay tuned for more details about the press briefing.

St. Joseph’s Opens World-Class Research Lab to Study Lung Disease

St. Joseph’s has opened a new state-of-the-art research laboratory that will focus on the study of lung cancer, lung transplantation and esophageal disease. The nearly 7,500 square-foot lab is outfitted with the latest technology and will employ four principal investigators and more than 40 lab technicians. The new facility will substantially enhance the stature of St. Joseph’s Norton Thoracic Institute as a world-class thoracic and lung transplant center. Please call (602) 406-3312 for more details.

Dignity Health Offers Prestigious Summer Program for Teens

Chandler Regional and Mercy Gilbert Medical Centers will host a media day in July to showcase their “volunteens”, a group of more than 80 Valley high school students who will receive a unique insight into the medical field throughout the summer. The program has received national recognition for offering its student volunteers with prestigious health care experience in which the students learn about the medical profession first hand through Dignity Health doctors, nurses and other health care professionals at the hospital. More details to follow.

Study Identifies Mortality Risk for Heart Failure Patients with Depression

Heart failure patients with depression can have five times the risk of mortality compared with individuals with mild or no depression. Approximately 26 million people worldwide live with the condition, and nearly 20 to 40 percent of heart failure patients experience depression. To speak with a St. Joseph’s medical expert about this international study, call (602) 406-3312.

Chandler Regional and Mercy Gilbert Offer Unique Pet Therapy Program

Chandler Regional and Mercy Gilbert Medical Centers are actively engaging in a unique pet therapy program in which 45 canine’s volunteer at the hospitals to help lift the spirits of patients. The dogs in the Paws for Patients program make a significant difference in a patient’s comfort, progress and recovery, and their visits with patients have been shown to lower blood pressure and anxiety. To schedule interviews, please call (602) 406-3312.