ABC Method for Better Sleep and Better Brain Health

We all have nights when we can’t get a good night’s sleep. We toss and turn all night, waking up exhausted because of poor sleep quality.  

If you are experiencing poor sleep quality, the ABC method or ABCs of respiratory therapy can help you sleep properly and efficiently. The ABC method stands for:  

  • Airway 
  • Breathing 
  • Circulation 

This method helps regulate a variety of things, primarily oxygenation, which helps your body recover and stay functioning. Finding the right sleep position is essential to the ABC method. 

According to Dr. John Saito, a representative for the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM), everyone has their own idea of what a good sleep position is, whether it is on the left or right side, the back, or stomach, but it all depends on the context. 

If a person is sleeping on their back and has a good support pillow that keeps their spine and neck in a neutral position, it allows their airway to remain open and unobstructed, and they can breathe easily. However, if a person has sleep apnea, sleeping on their back can be harmful to health, as their throat muscles become too relaxed and block the body’s upper airway.  

The ABC method can also work with babies, as most doctors recommend putting them on their backs to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), which is an unexplained death that usually occurs during sleep. 

Dr. Saito suggests that sleeping on your side can offer several benefits. Sleeping on your right side may be better for blood flow, as well as lower pressure on your heart, due to the flexible compartment located between your lungs called the mediastinum, which helps hold your heart in place. 

Sleeping on your left side can also provide some benefits, as it may be better for clearing the waste product in the brain. This is known as the glymphatic system, which is the brain’s specialized waste clearance network that clears any harmful metabolic byproducts while we sleep, including proteins linked to Alzheimer’s disease. 

Lastly, Dr. Saito points out the difference between sleeping in a fetal or curled position and spreading out. Sleeping on either side of your body, with your spine straight, helps keep it aligned, while curling up on your side helps to ease lower back pain. However, being too curled up can compress your diaphragm and chest, which restricts breathing. 

Having trouble sleeping because you can’t find a comfortable sleeping position can cause you to move a lot throughout the night as you try to reposition yourself. This can disrupt your sleep and affect the quality of your sleep. Here are ways to practice sleeping in better positions to help you get a restful night’s sleep: 

  • If you sleep on your side, place a pillow between your knees to help better align your head, neck, and hips. This neutral posture can make breathing easier and result in deeper and more restorative sleep 
  • If you sleep on your back, place a pillow under your knees 
  • If you sleep on your stomach, place a thin pillow under your hips 

Additionally, choosing a mattress that adheres to the natural curve of your spine is an essential part of getting a good night’s sleep. 

There isn’t just one best position to sleep in. A lot of factors go into how your sleep position affects your quality of sleep. Whether you suffer from sleep apnea, back pain, are a chronic snorer, or are pregnant, the major goal is to find a comfortable and unobtrusive sleeping position that allows you to get a good night’s sleep. Choose whichever sleep position that makes you the most comfortable, as it will give you the best and most rest. 

Our New York Sleep Clinic staff consists of board-certified sleep specialists and respiratory therapists who are highly skilled in evaluating and treating sleep disorders. Our compassionate staff will ensure your stay is pleasant and helpful to your health. For additional information or to make an appointment, please call 718-206-5916. 

 

 

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Common Vaccines That Can Prevent Chronic Diseases or Some Cancers

Vaccines don’t just protect you from specific infectious diseases or help reduce the severity of symptoms if you get sick. They also play a significant role in preventing you from developing common chronic diseases, including certain cancers. 

What’s more, there is an increasing amount of research that has shown that vaccines can reduce the risk of developing dementia and heart conditions. 

Here are some common vaccines that can prevent chronic diseases and some cancers: 

HPV Vaccine 

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common infection spread by skin-to-skin contact, often through sex, and is responsible for most cervical cancers. It can also cause a large number of lower genital cancers and certain head and neck cancers. 

Studies have shown that rates of HPV infection, early signs of precancer, and cervical cancer have fallen since the HPV vaccine was introduced. A 2024 study of an estimated 3.5 million participants found fewer cases of HPV-related cancers in people who were vaccinated. Another study found that cervical cancer deaths among women younger than 25 years old dropped more than 60 percent in recent years, with researchers suggesting that the significant decline was most likely the result of vaccinations.  

The HPV vaccine should be administered to all young people between the ages of nine and 26. It can be given to people up to the age of 45; however, the vaccine is less effective the older you are. Two doses of the vaccine are recommended for most people younger than 15 years old, and three shots for people between 15 and 26 years old and those who are immunocompromised. 

Shingles Vaccine 

Shingles is caused by the same virus that causes chicken pox. Unfortunately, the virus doesn’t leave your body after you have recovered from chicken pox and stays dormant in your nervous system, and for some people, it can reactivate and cause a painful rash. In the U.S., an estimated one million people get shingles each year, and for certain people, it can sometimes also cause lifelong chronic pain conditions or other serious complications, such as vision loss. 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the shingles vaccine is 97 percent effective in preventing shingles in adults between 50 and 69 years old.  

Additionally, many large-scale studies have reported a connection between the shingles vaccine and reduced risk of dementia. There is also research that suggests the vaccine could reduce the risk of cardiovascular events such as stroke, heart failure, and coronary artery disease. The CDC recommends two doses of a shingles vaccine for adults 50 and older, or people 19 years or older with weakened immune symptoms. The chicken pox vaccine for children can help prevent shingles when they’re older. 

Hepatitis B Vaccine 

The hepatitis B virus is a leading risk factor for liver disease and cancer later in life. It can be contracted through sexual contact, needles, and childbirth, and can be passed from person to person through blood, semen, or other bodily fluids.  

Acute hepatitis B can be a short-term illness that happens within the first six months of exposure to the virus. It can cause people to have no symptoms or only mild sickness. However, the illness, which is a liver infection that can become a lifelong chronic condition if left untreated, could lead to cirrhosis and liver cancer. It is recommended that all infants receive the vaccine at birth, with the series of shots to be completed in the first 15 months of their life. 

Flu, Coronavirus, and RSV Vaccine 

Vaccines that help prevent infections from respiratory viruses are important because they protect us against serious disease, as well as flare-ups or worsening of existing chronic health conditions.  

A study done in 2020 found higher rates of severe flu infections among adults with certain chronic medical conditions, such as diabetes, kidney disease, congestive heart failure, coronary artery disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and asthma. Additionally, a study of 46 million adults observed that the incidence of heart attacks and strokes decreased after people received coronavirus vaccinations.  

The CDC recommends that everyone six months and older should get an annual flu shot.  

It is also important for those who have chronic conditions to get the coronavirus and RSV vaccines.  

RSV can be devastating for children and elderly people. Getting the RSV vaccine is recommended for babies, pregnant women to protect their babies, adults ages 50 to 74 with chronic health conditions, and all adults 75 and older. 

Bacterial Vaccines 

Bacterial infections such as meningitis and pneumonia can also lead to chronic disabilities or even death.  

The longer a person has a meningitis infection, the greater the risk of the infection causing serious complications such as hearing loss, vision troubles, memory issues, learning disabilities, brain damage, seizures, and kidney failure. 

Pneumonia can have long-term effects, such as depression, heart disease, and blood vessel diseases that worsen. According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, pneumonia could cause kidney, liver, and heart damage due to the organs not getting enough oxygen to function properly, or because of the immune system responding negatively to the infection.  

Both bacterial meningitis and pneumonia can lead to sepsis. If treated early, a person suffering from sepsis can recover completely; however, others might experience long-term effects, including insomnia, nightmares or hallucinations, panic attacks, joint and muscle pain, decreased cognitive function, and organ failure.  

The CDC recommends all preteens and teens, as well as children and adults who are at an increased risk, receive the meningococcal vaccine, as it protects against the disease that causes meningitis. Children five years and younger and adults 50 or older should receive the pneumococcal vaccine, which helps prevent pneumonia and other infections, including meningitis and sepsis.  

It is important to remember that getting vaccinated is the best way to protect against worsening or serious symptoms of illness and developing chronic diseases and cancers. 

To learn more about our infectious disease services or to make an appointment with our infectious disease physicians, please contact Jamaica Hospital Medical Center at 718-206-6000. 

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Employee Spotlight Shines on Urszula Pisany, MSN, RN, AGPCNP-BC, CCRN

This month, we are proud to shine our Employee Spotlight on Urszula Pisany, clinical nurse leader in the SICU. Urszula began her career at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center 13 years ago. She started as a staff nurse in 2013 on 3 south and then in 2016  became a staff nurse in the SICU. In 2022, she transitioned to her current position.

Urszula grew up in Greenpoint Brooklyn. She moved to Long Beach, Long Island when she was 18 years old and currently resides in Lynbrook. She attended Saint Stanislaus Kostka Elementary School, and Saint Vincent Ferrer High School. In 2009, she graduated from Stony Brook University with a Bachelor of Science in Health Science and in 2011, she obtained a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing from NYU. In 2025, Urszula obtained her Master of Science in Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Degree from CUNY Hunter College.

Urszula loves dogs and  had a Pomeranian mix dog named Emma that passed away in October of 2024 at the age of 15. She recently adopted a new puppy named Zara. In her free time she enjoys going for walks, exploring the city and visiting museums. She likes to read a good book, host dinner parties, spend time in nature, and go on bike rides. Urszula rode in the 5-Boro Bike tour in the past. Recently, she started learning French. Urszula enjoys traveling, especially to Poland where the majority of her extended family lives. She has very pleasant memories of visiting her family and hiking in the mountains there. She also has traveled to Japan which she really enjoyed.

Urszula likes to try food from different cultures. She is learning to cook Moroccan food at the present time. Her taste in music is primarily Rock from the 1990’s. She also likes the Beatles and ABBA. The things that are important to her are nurturing relationships with those people she is close to, health and well-being, and having a sense of purpose in life and personal growth.

Urszula became a nurse because she wants to have a role in making a direct impact on people’s lives. She enjoys working at Jamaica Hospital because of the wonderful people she works with and for knowing that she is making a difference in the lives of the patients she cares for. We look forward to Urszula continuing to work with us for many more years into the future.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Swim Safety Tips

Summer is here, and that means a lot of time is spent at beaches and pools where we can all cool off from the heat. Here are some important things to know before getting in the water this summer. 

When around any body of water, there is always a risk of drowning. Drowning only takes a moment and is often silent. A child or a weak swimmer can drown in the amount of time it takes to send a text, check a fishing line, or apply sunscreen. 

Death and injury from drowning happen every day in home pools and hot tubs, at the beach, or in oceans, lakes, rivers, streams, bathtubs, or even buckets.  

Here are some facts and statistics on drowning: 

  • It is the leading cause of death for children ages one to four years old, and the second leading cause of unintentional injury death for children ages five to 14 years old 
  • More than half of the fatal and non-fatal drownings among people 15 years or older occur in natural waters 
  • About 40% of drowning deaths among children ages five to 14 occur in natural water, such as oceans, lakes, rivers, and streams 

Drowning can also be non-fatal. Non-fatal drowning can result in long-term health problems and costly hospital stays. Drowning injuries can cause brain damage and other serious outcomes, including long-term disability.  

There are several steps you can take to prevent death or injury. Water safety is key, so being water-competent is imperative. Here are three components of water competency: 

Water Smarts 

  • Put a fence around your home swimming pool. The fence should be at least four feet high and should fully enclose the pool, and also keep it separate from the house. The fence needs a self-closing and self-latching gate 
  • All toys that might attract a child need to be removed from the pool when no one is using it 
  • Know your limitations, such as physical fitness and medical conditions 
  • Never swim alone. Swim with friends or where lifeguards or water watchers are present 
  • Always wear a life jacket while boating, regardless of swimming skill. Wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket appropriate for your weight, size, and water activity. It is important to know that swim accessories, such as swim belts, floaties, armbands, or water wings, do not prevent you from drowning, and can easily slip off, especially when jumping in the water. Water wings can produce a false sense of safety for adults and children 
  • Swim sober 
  • Understand the dangers of hyperventilation and hypoxic blackout 
  • Know how to call for help 
  • Understand and adjust for the unique risks of the water environment, such as: 
    • Ocean rip currents 
    • River currents 
    • Underwater hazards, such as vegetation and animals 
    • Water temperature 
    • Shallow or unclear water 

Swimming Skills 

Swimming lessons can reduce the risk of drowning. However, over half of adults in the U.S. have never taken a swimming lesson. Learn how to perform these five skills in every type of water environment that you may encounter: 

  • Getting in and out of the water safely 
  • Float or tread water for at least one minute 
  • Turn over and around in the water 
  • Swim at least 25 yards 
  • Exit the water 

Helping Others 

These actions will help your family or loved ones avoid emergencies, and help you respond if an emergency occurs: 

  • Paying close attention to children or weak swimmers you are supervising in or near water 
  • Knowing the signs that someone is drowning 
  • Knowing ways to safely assist a person who is drowning, such as “reach or throw, don’t go” 
  • Knowing CPR and first aid 

It is important to be well-prepared when in or around pools and bodies of water, and to follow proper safety precautions to reduce the risk of drowning. These swim safety tips can help you enjoy your summer and keep you and your loved ones safe. If you or someone you are with is experiencing an emergency, call 911 immediately. 

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Managing Diabetes In The Summer Heat

How Does Hot Weather Affect Diabetes?

Woman with a visible diabetic sensor on her arm poses for the camera while leaning on a bridge in a public park, enjoying a bright and sunny day.Extreme summer weather can negatively affect our health.  The combination of high temperatures and humidity can be dangerous, especially for those living with diabetes.

People with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing heat-related illnesses than others.  They are more vulnerable because high temperatures can change how the body uses insulin. High temperatures can cause blood vessels to dilate, accelerating insulin absorption and therefore leading to a drop in blood glucose.

Furthermore, high heat can lead to dehydration. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that people with diabetes get dehydrated more quickly than those who do not have the condition.  This risk is driven by the following factors:

  • Having high blood sugar levels leads to frequent urination, causing dehydration
  • Diabetes can affect the body’s cooling system (Diabetes may damage the nerves that control sweat glands and blood vessels, making it harder for the body to regulate temperature, increasing the likelihood of overheating and dehydration)
  • Many people with diabetes also take medications such as diuretics for high blood pressure; these medications increase fluid loss and the risk of dehydration.

Lastly, extreme heat can also damage diabetic medications, such as insulin, as well as medical devices, including insulin pumps and blood sugar monitors.

Safety tips for managing diabetes in the heat

Following these precautions can help protect your health this summer, so you can enjoy the weather:

  • Stay hydrated- drink plenty of water (even if you don’t feel thirsty) and avoid or limit sugary drinks, alcohol, and caffeinated beverages
  • Keep medications, supplies, and devices out of the heat and store them in a cool place
  • Check your blood glucose levels regularly
  • Avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours
  • Dress for the weather by wearing clothing that keeps you cool
  • Wear sunscreen

Most importantly, pay attention to the signs of heat-related illnesses and diabetic complications. Look for symptoms such as hot, dry skin with no sweating, rapid breathing, dizziness, nausea, extreme thirst, blurred vision, and headaches.  If you notice any of these symptoms, take appropriate action, and when in doubt, seek immediate medical attention.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Summer Recipe: Crispy Grill Pan Chicken Thighs

The summer heat can make it difficult to use an oven when cooking dinner. This recipe for delicious, mouth-watering, crispy grilled chicken thighs is cooked entirely on the stovetop, so you can avoid heating your kitchen.

https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchen/crispy-grill-pan-chicken-thighs-11585731

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Juvenile Arthritis

Juvenile Arthritis, also known as pediatric rheumatic disease, is an umbrella term describing inflammatory and rheumatic diseases that develop in children under 16 years.  

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks the joints instead of fighting viruses and germs. It is the most common type of arthritis in children.  

Other types of juvenile arthritis include: 

  • Juvenile myositis is an inflammatory disease that causes muscle weakness. There are two types: 
  • Juvenile polymyositis 
  • Juvenile dermatomyositis 
  • Juvenile lupus is an autoimmune disease that affects the joints, skin, internal organs, and other areas. The most common form is systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) 
  • Juvenile scleroderma describes a group of conditions that cause the skin to tighten and harden 
  • Vasculitis is a disease that causes inflammation of the blood vessels, which can lead to heart disease. According to the Arthritis Foundation, Kawasaki disease and Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HCP) are the most common forms of vasculitis in kids and teens.  
  • Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain syndrome that causes widespread muscle pain and stiffness. It also causes fatigue, disrupted sleep, and other symptoms. It is more common in girls and is rarely diagnosed before puberty.  

The symptoms of juvenile arthritis can vary depending on the type. The most common symptoms include: 

  • Joint pain 
  • Joint swelling 
  • Joint stiffness 
  • Fever, swollen lymph nodes, and rash 

It can be difficult to diagnose juvenile arthritis in children because joint pain can be caused by many different problems. Some ways it can be diagnosed include: 

  • Physical exams 
  • Blood tests 
  • Imaging scans 

There is no cure for arthritis. However, it can be treated. Treatments can include: 

  • Medications 
  • Physical or occupational therapies 
  • Surgery 
  • Self-care 

Jamaica Hospital’s Ambulatory Care Center provides a wide range of pediatric services. If your child is experiencing arthritis symptoms, you can make an appointment by calling 718-206-7001.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Fourth of July Safety Tips

July Fourth is a fun time to spend with friends and family. Many of us prepare to celebrate by having barbecues, cookouts, and watching fireworks. But as we celebrate Independence Day, it is important to be mindful of ways to stay safe during this holiday, to protect ourselves and our loved ones from harm.  

You may want to set off fireworks as part of your Fourth of July celebration; however, it is important to know that all fireworks, including Roman candles, bottle rockets, bombs, skyrockets, and other aerial devices, are illegal in New York City. 

New York State law allows the sale and use of sparklers but limits the types and sizes. They must be handheld or mounted on a base or spike and must be no more than 500 grams of pyrotechnic composition. 

However, if you live on Long Island, in New York City, or in parts of the Hudson Valley, sparklers are banned. 

The safest way to enjoy them is to attend a public fireworks show that is put on by professionals. If you do use fireworks in a state, city, or county where they are legal, follow these tips for the safety of yourself and your loved ones: 

  • Read and follow all safety information and instructions for proper use. 
  • Make sure the person lighting fireworks always wears eye protection 
  • Keep small children away from fireworks. 
  • Have a bucket of water or a hose ready to extinguish accidental fires. 
  • Never allow anyone under the influence of alcohol or drugs to use fireworks. 
  • Light one device at a time. 
  • Never try to light a device that didn’t light the first time. 
  • Only use fireworks away from people, pets, buildings, and flammable materials.  
  • Store fireworks in a cool, dry place that is away from children and pets 
  • Never use fireworks around pets. Keep them indoors. Exposure to lit fireworks can potentially result in severe burns or trauma, and many pets are also fearful of loud noises and can become lost, scared, or disoriented. 
  • Soak all used and unused fireworks in water for a few hours before throwing them away. 

If your state and local ordinances do not allow fireworks, consider celebrating with glow sticks, noise makers, and/or silly string as an alternative. 

Here are some other tips to help you celebrate July 4th safely:  

  • Summer heat can be unbearable and very dangerous. If there are extremely high temperatures where you are celebrating, it is important to ensure everyone’s safety by doing the following:  
    • Postpone or limit outdoor activities. If you must work outdoors, take frequent breaks and avoid the hottest part of the day. Never leave children or pets alone in a vehicle.  
    • Drink plenty of water and avoid sugary, caffeinated, and alcoholic drinks. Check that animals also have access to fresh water and shade.  
    • Spend time indoors in an air-conditioned place. If you don’t have air conditioning, go to a public place that has one. Check on loved ones and neighbors who may be at risk and don’t have air conditioning.   
  • It is important to know what to do in case of emergencies, as they can happen no matter where you may be. Taking a first aid class and being trained in first aid gives you the ability to respond when minutes matter. Having the knowledge of what to do in specific emergencies and helping care for people as you wait for medical professionals to arrive gives that person the best chance for a positive outcome. No matter the emergency, being trained in first aid can be a lifesaving tool. 

If you or a loved one is suffering from injuries after a Fourth of July celebration, you can schedule an appointment with a physician at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center by calling (718) 206-7001. If there is an emergency, call 911 immediately. 

 

 

 

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Patient Testimony- Neil Moir

“You saved my life” is what I said after Dr. Yahya Atalay and the staff at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center saved my life after I had a major stroke at JFK Airport. 

On November 3rd of last year, I ended up in the emergency room at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center after having a major stroke while I was in the departure lounge at JFK Airport while travelling back to the UK. 

While in Jamaica Hospital’s emergency department, it was discovered that I had a blood clot in my brain. Dr. Yahya Atalay, a neuro-intervention specialist, treated me and successfully performed a thrombectomy, a procedure to remove the clot from my brain via my groin. 

After the operation, I was completely unable to move the right-hand side of my body and could not talk. Over the next three days, I regained full use of my right-hand side, and my speech was almost back to normal with only a slight impediment, which only my wife had noticed. 

The care I received was second to none. All the staff at the hospital were professional, dedicated, and caring. I was discharged after three days, which everyone seemed quite impressed with.  

My family and I cannot thank all the hospital staff enough for what they did over my three-day stay with them.  

I would also like to thank my wife, Serena, who has been a rock over the last few months during my recovery after my episode.  

Kindest Regards, 

Neil Moir 

 

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Meet Our Doctors- Dr. Melvin Thornton II

We are pleased to introduce Dr. Melvin Thornton II, the newest member of the Obstetrics and Gynecology team at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center. 

Dr. Thornton specializes in infertility, obstetrics and gynecology, and reproductive endocrinology. He chose this career path because, “in medical school I helped deliver my first baby and it was the most amazing thing in the world, and I will always remember that day. Then I realized that many couples could not experience the joy of having children, so I decided to dedicate my life and career to helping families have children,” he explained.  

Born in Cleveland, Ohio, Dr. Thornton attended Oberlin College for his undergraduate degree and Washington University in St. Louis for medical school. He completed his residency in obstetrics and gynecology and reproductive endocrinology and infertility fellowships at the University of Southern California and L.A. County Hospital, where he was board-certified in both. He also completed his pelvic surgery fellowship at The Cleveland Clinic. Dr. Thornton treats female and male infertility, and female reproductive hormonal disorders, such as polycystic ovarian syndrome, prolactin, and menstrual disorders.  

Recognized as one of the world’s leading experts in egg donation and surrogacy, Dr. Thornton has been helping families achieve their dreams for over 30 years and is excited to join the Jamaica Hospital team and practice in the community because he wants to help couples in the Queens area who are having difficulty conceiving. He is bringing his expertise in diagnosing and treating men and women to help them have children, as well as the opportunity for women to undergo fertility preservation, particularly for those diagnosed with cancer before undergoing cancer treatment. 

Dr. Thornton has distinguished himself in the treatment of HIV serodiscordant couples and the relationship to infertility and fertility treatment through his extensive research. He has published more than 50 papers, written several book chapters, and presented over 100 abstracts at national conferences on topics related to infertility, third-party reproduction, and women’s health. He is an excellent educator and gives board review lectures for OB/GYN, Family Medicine, and Pediatrics residents preparing for their board examination. 

Dr. Thornton currently lives in Central Valley, Orange County, New York, and is proud to practice in Queens. He joined the faculty at Columbia University, where he served as Medical Director and Director of the Egg Donation Program at the Center for Women’s Reproductive Care (CWRC). He previously was a member of the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) Clinical Competency Committee for Obstetrics and Gynecology at Columbia University and currently sits on the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) Education Committee and a member of the newly formed ASRM Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Taskforce, which will enhance opportunities in reproductive medicine for underrepresented minority populations and reduce health disparities and access to care. 

Dr. Thornton is a Castle Connolly National Top Doctor and was awarded the Top Doctor’s New York Metro Area Award in 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020-2026. 

We are proud to welcome Dr. Thornton to our team and look forward to the work he and the rest of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology will provide high-quality care to our community.   

Jamaica Hospital’s Department of Women’s Health Services provides a comprehensive range of inpatient and outpatient OB/GYN services to women in our community. You can schedule an appointment with an OB/GYN at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Women’s Health Center. To learn more, please call (718) 291-3276. 

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.