Press Release, Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments
KNOWLESVILLE – The Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health) are offering their final 2024 free drive-thru rabies vaccination clinics in October. Funding for the rabies clinics are provided by the New York State Department of Health.
Vaccinations are free for dogs, cats and ferrets. Animals must be at least 3 months old. Each animal must be leashed or crated and accompanied by an adult who can control the animal. Limit 4 pets per car maximum.
The Genesee County Rabies Vaccination Clinic will be held on Thursday, Oct. 10, from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Genesee County Fairgrounds (5056 East Main Street, Batavia)
The Orleans County Rabies Vaccination Clinic will be held on Saturday, Oct. 19, from 9 to 11:30 a.m. at the Orleans County Fairgrounds (12690 State Route 31, Albion)
“We encourage all Genesee and Orleans County residents to take advantage of our last rabies immunization clinics of 2024 and ensure their pets are protected against rabies,” stated Paul Pettit, Public Health Director for GO Health. “Rabies continues to be a serious public health concern in both counties and is a preventable viral disease.”
To prevent the spread of rabies, the health department reminds residents to take the following precautions:
Keep your pets up-to-date on their rabies vaccinations.
Obey leash laws. Keep your pets under direct supervision and on a leash so they do not come in contact with wild or stray animals. If an animal bites your pet, seek veterinary assistance for the animal immediately and contact the health department.
Avoid contact with wild or stray animals. Do not handle, feed, touch, or attract wildlife (raccoons, skunks, bats, bunnies, rabbits, and foxes) or stray dogs and cats.
Never adopt wild animals or bring them into your home.
Prevent bats from entering living quarters. If you find a bat in your home, safely capture it and call the health department. Do not release it! For a video on how to safety capture a bat, click here.
Call your local animal control agency to remove any stray animals from your neighborhood or if you see an animal showing signs of rabies. Signs of rabies in animals may include aggression, excessive drool or saliva, confusion, hair loss, and loss of movement or function.
For more information about GO Health Programs and services, visit GOHealthNY.org or contact your local health department at:
By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 26 September 2024 at 4:34 pm
(Left) Darlene Rich is the Shelby town clerk. (Right) Betty Sue Miller is director of Hoag Library in Albion.
LYNDONVILLE – With Orleans Community Health’s cancer services event, For Women Only, a week away, the hospital is announcing speakers, presentations and more, and making a plea for the community to honor and remember their loved ones who have suffered with cancer.
“This is the 25th year of this beloved event which brings the community together for an inspiring evening of support, friendship and solidarity, while raising funds to benefit those seeking services in the area,” said Scott Robinson, director of Marketing, Communication and Outreach.
A highlight of the event on Oct. 3 at the White Birch is a video presentation in which names and/or pictures of loved ones who have survived or died from cancer is shown on a giant screen throughout the evening. Names and photos may still be sent to srobinson@medinamemorial.org as a tribute to their strength and courage.
The evening will also feature a basket raffle, providing attendees with the chance to win fabulous prizes while contributing wo a worthy cause, Robinson said.
Two speakers have been announced – Betty Sue Miller, director of Hoag Library in Albion; and Darlene Rich, town of Shelby clerk. Both are cancer survivors and will share their personal stories, offering inspiration and hope to all in attendance.
Everyone is invited to be part of this powerful evening, whether they are a survivor, a friend or a supporter. Attendees will also have the opportunity to share their own experiences, fostering an environment of togetherness that serves as a reminder that we are all in this fight together.
“Join us for an evening of inspiration, support and camaraderie,” Robinson said. “Let us come together to make a difference in the lives of those battling cancer.”
By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 26 September 2024 at 2:06 pm
MEDINA – Orleans Community Health Foundation has announced the date and site for its 30th annual Treasure Island fundraiser.
The event is scheduled Nov. 2 at White Birch Golf Course in Lyndonville.
“We are excited to announce the 30th Treasure Island,” said Foundation director Megan Johnson. “This special evening promises to be a night to remember, filled with camaraderie, entertainment and the opportunity to make a significant impact on our community.”
The evening will feature a silent auction with more than 100 items, ranging in value from $50 and beyond. People can browse items and begin bidding online days before the event.
A live auction will again be led by Wes Pickreign, with at least five exclusive items available for bid.
Pirate’s Pillage raffle will feature $50 tickets for a chance to win one of the live auction items, before the auction begins.
A favorite feature is the Lucky Cork Raffle, in which attendees have a chance to win a bottle of wine, liquor or beer for a $20 donation.
The evening also features an open bar, food stations with delicious offerings and music and entertainment by deejay JT Thomas.
A highlight of the evening will be the honoring of surgeons, Drs. Schratz, Hodge and Huff.
Major sponsors of the event are Jr. Wilson Sportsman Club, Takeform and Cooper Funeral Home/Mitchell Family Cremations and Funerals.
Sponsorship opportunities are still available by contacting Johnson at Orleans Community Health Foundation, (585) 798-8437, or e-mailing foundation@medinamemorial.org.
Event tickets are $50 each. Checks should be made payable to OCH Foundation and mailed to 200 Ohio St., Medina, 14103.
By Dr. Sarah Smith and Dr. Kelsey Izzo, pediatricians at Oak Orchard Health.
Now that kids are back in the classroom, we want to help you make sure they get as much out of their school days as possible. That means staying healthy, getting plenty of rest, and practicing all-around good habits. Here are some tips to help your family thrive this school year.
Avoid sickness—and prevent spread.
Start by getting your kids this year’s flu and COVID-19 vaccines. Vaccinations can help protect your kids from getting these viruses (and minimize symptoms if they do). Good hand hygiene goes a long way, too. Be sure kids wash their hands with soap and warm water and use hand sanitizer throughout the day.
If your kids get sick with fever, vomiting, and diarrhea they must stay home until symptoms have resolved. They can return when symptom free including fever-free without medicine for 24 hours.
Fuel their day.
A good day at school starts with good nutrition. Make sure your kids eat breakfast, whether at home or through a school meal program. Remember, a nutritious breakfast should include some form of protein or fruit. Protein at breakfast could come from eggs, and if you’re short on time, prepare them ahead as grab-and-go egg bites baked in muffin tins (here’s a great recipe: loveandlemons.com/egg-bites-recipe). Other protein sources include Greek yogurt, peanut butter, cheese, and nuts, which you can sprinkle over cereal.
If your school permits it, send your kids to school with a snack, too, so they have something to munch on during the day if they feel hungry. Granola bars, cheese sticks, and prepackaged small bags of nuts are good options.
Teach good backpack habits.
Kids can develop sore muscles and injuries from improperly packed or oversized gear. Make sure the backpack is the appropriate size for your child, and work with them on how to pack it so that the items inside are distributed evenly. Make sure they wear the backpack using both shoulder straps to avoid putting a strain on one side of their body. Make sure the straps are adjusted so that the bottom of the backpack sits just above the student’s waist. We recommend that parents routinely remind their kids to remove unnecessary items from their backpack to reduce excess weight.
Make sure they get their rest.
Getting back into a good sleep routine after summer break is vital. Create a good bedtime routine that eases them to sleep, such as a bath or reading books together. Consistency is essential—make sure that routine happens every night, even on weekends. Be sure your kids shut off all their screens and devices at least an hour before bed to help them wind down.
Watch for signs of anxiety.
The school year can be a source of great anxiety for kids. If you are struggling to get a child ready for school, it may be anxiety. Tummy aches—especially on a Sunday night—can be a red flag, too. So can frequent trips to the nurse’s office. Talk with your kids to reassure them. Bring them to school and drop them off for a few days if your schedule allows. And if symptoms of avoidance continue to the point that they are missing school, talk to your pediatrician. At Oak Orchard Health we have an expanded Behavioral Health Program for Children and Adolescents. We have therapists with a specialty in pediatric behavioral health that can collaborate with your pediatrician.
Encourage safe travel.
Do your kids know how to look both ways before crossing the street to get to their bus? Be sure they do. If their bus has seatbelts, remind them to wear them during the ride. If you drive your kids to school, the same rule applies to seatbelt use, of course. If you have a child who requires a car seat or booster seat, make sure they have the proper one for their height. Remember, children should always ride in the back seat until they turn thirteen.
Help your preschoolers adjust, too.
Watching their older siblings leave for school every day can be upsetting for preschool-aged children. Help them manage expectations by talking with them and creating a routine that includes when to expect their big brother or sister to return. There are also children’s books on this subject that can be helpful for preschoolers.
Need support as a parent? We’re here.
Oak Orchard Health (OOH) pediatricians are happy to work with parents on the issues they face with their growing families. To make an appointment, contact your nearest office at (585) 637-3905 or find an OOH pediatrician online at https://bit.ly/4eD6yhZ
Residents urged to take precautions from mosquito-borne illnesses
Press Release, Genesee & Orleans County Health Departments
A human case of West Nile Virus has been confirmed in Orleans County.
“West Nile Virus is most commonly spread by the bite of an infected mosquito,” stated Paul Pettit, Public Health Director for the Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health). “The best protection against West Nile Virus and other mosquito-related illnesses is to prevent mosquito bites.”
Residents are encouraged to practice the following precautions:
Use an EPA-registered insect repellant and follow product label instructions. To find the best repellant for you, visit www.epa.gov/insect-repellents.
Minimize exposed skin by wearing protective clothing like long sleeves and long pants tucked into socks, especially when outdoors at dusk or dawn when mosquitos are most active.
Wear clothing and gear treated with permethrin.
Reduce mosquito population around your home and property by removing any standing water, such as by emptying buckets, containers, pots, planters and pool covers.
West Nile Virus infections occur most often during summer and early fall. Most people who are infected with West Nile Virus do not show any symptoms. According to the New York State Department of Health, roughly 20% of infected individuals will develop mild symptoms, including fever, headache, body aches, nausea, diarrhea, and rash. Severe illness may cause high fever, headache, neck stiffness, muscle weakness, disorientation, paralysis, and, in some cases, death. Individuals over the age of 50 are at highest risk for serious illness.
ALBION – Oak Orchard Health is excited to welcome Dr. Lalit K. Jain, a distinguished pediatrician, to our team.
Dr. Jain brings over 35 years of board-certified pediatric experience, including his recent role as Chief of Pediatrics at United Memorial Medical Center. Before that, he served as CEO and Lead Physician at Batavia Pediatrics.
“We are thrilled that Dr. Jain has chosen OOH in Albion to continue his pediatric practice. His commitment to the well-being of children in our community is widely recognized,” said Karen Kinter, CEO of Oak Orchard Health. “Dr. Jain appreciates the complexities of pediatric care and selected Oak Orchard Health for our comprehensive services, including our recently expanded behavioral health offerings in Albion and Brockport. Our team now includes more child and adolescent therapists working alongside our medical providers to develop optimal care solutions.”
Dr. Jain expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “I am excited to see patients at Oak Orchard Health in Albion. Working with children is my passion. My approach to patient care involves listening to children and their parents to truly understand their concerns. Building connections with patients of all ages is important to me.”
In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Jain is dedicated to combating childhood obesity. He led the “Get Fit” program, partnering with UMMC, the City of Batavia, Genesee County, the Batavia School District, and the YMCA—this initiative aimed to foster community environments that support healthy eating and physical activity.
Dr. Jain is accepting new patients. For more information, call (585) 589-5613.
By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 13 September 2024 at 9:20 am
Photos by Ginny Kropf: Gary Pask of Middleport waits for his wife Diane, who is getting information on Orleans Community Health’s first Resource Fair on Thursday afternoon.
MEDINA – The first Resource Fair sponsored by Orleans Community Health was a resounding success, according to Scott Robinson, director Marketing, Community and Outreach.
“We were slammed with people,” said Lori Condo, assistant controller, who helped register people in the front lobby. “We are so excited at the turnout.”
In addition to testing options in Imaging/Radiology and Laboratory departments, there were free services, information on billing and vendors from throughout the county providing health-related facts on their services.
The Lumps and Bumps Clinic with Dr. Devon Huff was one of the most popular features.
“The clinic was full most of the time,” Robinson said.
(Left) Vendors from service organizations in Orleans County lined the hallways of Orleans Community Health for the organization’s first Resource Fair. (Right) Kim Gray, chief nursing officer and director of Surgical Services at Medina Memorial Hospital, compares notes with surgeon Dr. Devon Huff, who held a Lumps and Bumps Clinic during the hospital’s first Resource Fair. The clinic was one of the most popular features of the afternoon.
Vendors included U Connect Care, Orleans County Mental Health, Office for the Aging, Child and Family Services, Walsh Duffield (Medicare information), Hospice of Orleans County, M-Power Insurance Agency (Medicare information) and Cornell Cooperative Extension.
“This event is pretty cool,” said Sarah Martin, a nutritionist at Cooperative Extension, who handed out recipe cards with healthy recipes.
Other vendors handed out pens, candy, hand sanitizer informational cards on which to log prescriptions.
One couple who came to check out the fair was Gary and Diane Pask of Middleport.
“We local people are blessed with a good health facility and we wanted to see what they have in case we ever need it,” Gary said.
“We’re just being aware, checking out what is available,” Diane said.
“We had been talking about doing another Resource Fair in the spring, and this one was so successful, we may do it again next fall,” Robinson said. ‘We are very happy to be helping the community.”
Press Release, Genesee & Orleans County Health Departments
Back to school should mean new opportunities, not new addictions. As students return to the classroom this fall, educators and parents are not only preparing for a new academic year, but also the rising public health concern of vaping.
E-cigarettes can come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and in a school setting, these devices may blend in with other school supplies, as they may look like pens, USB drives, and even phone cases. This makes identifying these devices and protecting youth that much more difficult.
Studies show that vaping has become a rising concern in middle school aged children, as 3 percent of seventh graders in both Genesee and Orleans Counties reported vaping with nicotine.
“These years of a child’s life are very sensitive because their brains are still developing,” stated Paul Pettit, Public Health Director for Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health). “As the rate of vaping rises among teens, we must equip families and kids with information and tools to stay healthy.”
There are several reasons why youth vape:
Tobacco advertisers use vibrant colors and fun marketing strategies to increase youth participation in vaping. These ads are shown on social media, television, and streaming services, and promote vaping as a cheaper alternative to other tobacco products.
Peer pressure and social influences during middle and high school are a main contributor to students trying an e-cigarette for the first time. Students report that they may be curious to try vaping from seeing a friend or family member use them.
Availability of flavored e-cigarette products including youth-friendly flavors such as candy, fruit, mint, and menthol are the most widely used types of e-cigarettes among youth. According to the CLYDE Survey conducted by UConnectCare (formally GCASA), about 20% of 11th graders in Genesee and Orleans Counties reported using E-cigarettes or vapes that contain nicotine in 2022.
Nicotine is in most e-cigarettes and is highly addictive. Those who use vapes containing nicotine may experience cravings and urges to smoke, difficulty sleeping, and the feeling of anxiety and sadness, which may make them believe they need nicotine to relieve these feelings. These behaviors, among others, are a part of nicotine addiction.
The good news is that studies show that most middle and high school students who vape want to quit. Becoming more aware of the risks of vaping will allow for educated conversations with youth and help ensure that all youth can live healthy, tobacco-free lives.
Here are a few ways you can protect your youth and promote rejection of vaping during back to school season.
Educate yourself on the subject, and become a credible source of information. Visit CDC.gov/Vaping for important information on youth vaping.
Create a safe space for discussion and start the conversation on vaping. Remember to be patient, listen, and avoid criticism. Keep the conversation open and be willing to be flexible.
Answer their questions and be prepared. Kids may have questions about vaping, visit CDC.gov/tobacco for ideas on how to give educated and meaningful answers
Get Help Today
If you are interested in quitting, or someone you know needs help quitting, help is available:
Visit the New York State Smokers’ Quitline for quit-smoking and quit-vaping programs, or call 866-NY-QUITS (866-697-8487), to apply for a free starter kit of nicotine medications and to talk to a quit coach.
Talk to your healthcare provider about medications and counseling to help you manage cravings. Most health insurance plans, including Medicaid, cover services to help you quit.
For more information about GO Health Programs and services, visit GOHealthNY.org or contact your local health department at:
Orleans County: (585) 589-3278
Genesee County: (585) 344-2580 ext. 5555
Follow GO Health on Facebook, Instagram and X at GOHealthNY.
By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 6 September 2024 at 8:44 am
MEDINA – Orleans Community Health/Medina Memorial Hospital has announced that its subacute rehab program is now officially listed within the MVP Healthcare network.
Subacute rehab/TCU offers a special caring environment for patients who no longer require all the resources of an acute care hospital, but who are still in need of special care before going home.
This agreement with MVP represents a significant advancement in efforts to provide comprehensive and accessible healthcare services in the community, hospital officials said.
“The MVP Healthcare news is great for the community, as it opens the door for more individuals looking for subacute rehab care to receive it close to home,” said Scott Robinson, director of Marketing, Communications and Outreach at OCH.
“Our Transitional Care Unit (TCU) offers specialized subacute rehabilitation services designed for patients who need different therapies and medical oversight following a hospital stay,” said Amanda Luckman, Admissions/Marketing Assistant for OCH. “It is geared towards individuals requiring additional support to regain their quality of life after a major illness or surgery.”
The inclusion of TCU in the MVP Healthcare network marks the culmination of a dedicated effort by OCH. This acceptance is particularly significant as MVP Healthcare is a major carrier serving many in the Medina area. This inclusion is another step being taken by the hospital to best serve the community.
“We are thrilled to expand our services within the MVP Healthcare network,” said Marc Shurtz, CEO of Orleans Community Health. “This development ensures that more of our community members will have access to the care and recovery services they need, right here at home.”
By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 5 September 2024 at 7:52 am
MEDINA – Orleans Community Health Foundation has announced the appointment of three new members to its board of directors.
They are Matt Backlas, Barbara Outten and Jennifer Buondonno. Backlas is a web developer with Websystems. Outten is owner of Maple Ridge Storage and Buondonno is assistant branch manager of Tompkins Community Bank.
All bring a set of skills that will help to future the foundation’s efforts to strengthen health services to the community, said Scott Robinson, director of marketing, communication and outreach at Orleans Community Health.
“I am very happy to welcome our new board members,” said Jeanne Crane, board president. “New members bring new ideas and new energy.”
Executive director Megan Johnson added they are thrilled to welcome the three to the Orleans Community Health Foundation board.
“Their diverse expertise, community involvement and passion for our mission will be invaluable in fundraising to advance the care and services provided by Orleans Community Health,” Johnson said.
The Orleans Community Health Foundation looks forward to the contributions of its new board members and their role in supporting the Foundation’s mission to enhance community health and well-being.
The new members join Crane, Foundation vice president Gloria Brent, treasurer Clark Godshall, secretary Pam Canham, governing board chair Shannon Blount, OCH president/CEO Marc Shurtz, Matthew Kennedy, Nicole Goyette and Scott Robinson.
By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 3 September 2024 at 6:30 am
LYNDONVILLE – Orleans Community Health has announced the annual For Women Only will take place this year on Oct. 3 at White Birch Golf Course.
The event will again kick off Breast Cancer Awareness Month, while providing an evening with keynote speakers, cancer survivors sharing inspirational stories, honoring loved ones, socializing and participating in various raffles.
“While there is a traditional focus on Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we want to recognize those who have battled any form of the disease,” said Scott Robinson, director of Marketing, Communication and Outreach at Orleans Community Health. “There are plenty of individuals to honor, as well. In addition to basket raffles and other returning highlights, we’re continuing with last year’s opportunity to have loved ones included in a slide show that honors those we’ve lost, current fighters and survivors.”
Anyone wishing to honor their loved one – with or without a picture – should submit their name, photograph and information on whether or not the individual is still surviving, or date of death to Robinson at srobinson@medinamemorial.org.
For Women Only has been an annual event for many years, except during a hiatus from the Covid pandemic, Robinson said.
The event has often been a sellout, and women are encouraged to get their tickets as soon as possible by calling Lori Condo at (585) 798-8422 or online at FWO 2024 (auctria.com). Sponsorships are also available for purchase.
“We’ve all known someone who has had their lives affected by cancer,” Robinson said. “FWO allows us to bring these individuals together for an evening of strength through numbers. Everyone in the room has a story to tell, and we’re lucky enough to hear many of them.”
By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 30 August 2024 at 2:49 pm
Photo by Ginny Kropf: An addition to this year’s Resource Fair at Medina Memorial Hospital will be a “Lumps and Bumps Clinic” with surgeon Dr. Devon Huff, shown here comparing notes with Jorgie Lang, office coordinator in the surgery clinic.
MEDINA – This year’s Resource Fair sponsored by Orleans Community Health on Sept. 12 will have several new features. The event will run from 4 to 7 p.m.
Topping the list of new features will be a Lumps and Bumps Clinic with surgeon, Dr. Devon Huff.
Huff will see people with lesions, warts or skin tags and offer to remove them if appropriate.
“It is often very difficult to get an appointment to see a dermatologist and get evaluated,” Huff said. “If a pathologist can tell us what it is, we can remove it with minimal scarring.”
Scott Robinson, director of Marketing, Communication and Outreach, said features such as the Lumps and Bumps Clinic are reasons why more people will come.
Huff joined Orleans Community Health at the beginning of the year, where he spends one/half day in the clinic and one day a week in surgery. His full-time affiliation is with Kenmore Mercy Hospital in Buffalo.
Huff said working in a small hospital has its advantages, as long as you stick to what a small town hospital can do.
“It’s nice not to be stressed out and the people here are so nice,” he said.
He said it is important to build back the prominence of a hospital in a small town, so people will know what it has to offer.
Robinson praised Huff, calling him a “dedicated yet modest general surgeon with a great deal of experience in wound care.”
Huff came to Buffalo from the sun-soaked Ventura County in California in 2003 for medical school, Robinson said. He married a fellow med school alumna, who is now a pediatric emergency room doctor at Oishei Children’s Hospital. They have two daughters, aged 5 and 9.
Beyond the operating room Huff’s diverse array of hobbies includes real estate development, where he has had success beathing new life into older homes though renovation projects, Robinson said.
Outside of his professional pursuits, Huff finds joy in outdoor activities, such as hiking, skiing and mountain biking. He loves to travel, especially to national parks, where he enjoys expanding his love of photography.
“Dr. Huff’s dedication to patient care, coupled with his diverse interests, promises a unique and enriching contribution to the healthcare community,” Robinson said.
In addition to the Lumps and Bumps Clinic, the Resource Fair will offer tours of the hospital at 4, 5 and 6 p.m.; a chance to meet with representatives from several countywide organizations; Stop-the-Bleed training from 4 to 5:30 p.m. and a chance to talk with hospital personnel regarding patient portal, billing, health insurance and more. All are free.
There will also be an opportunity to register for testing in radiology and/or for a hospital blood draw at $10 per test.
It is also noted a second Stop the Bleed training is scheduled from 1 to 2 p.m. Sept. 18 at Lee-Whedon Memorial Library. The training teaches participants how to recognize life-threatening bleeding, apply direct pressure, use tourniquets and pack wounds.
Photos by Mike Pettinella/UConnectCare: Speakers at Wednesday’s Overdose Awareness Day at Austin Park are, from left, John Bennett, Rev. Erin Martin, Lynda Battaglia, Chris Budzinack Jr., Paul Pettit, Chris Budzinack and Rob Kent.
Posted 29 August 2024 at 11:12 am
By Mike Pettinella, UConnectCare Publicist
BATAVIA – “We are best when we serve others,” said the keynote speaker at Wednesday afternoon’s Overdose Awareness Day observance, using the words of famed anthropologist Margaret Mead to illustrate how citizens can unite to save the lives of those beset by substance use.
Speaking to about 150 people at Austin Park in Batavia, Rob Kent, president of the Virginia-based Kent Strategic Advisors, LLC, and former general counsel for the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy, shared the story of when Mead was asked by a student what she considered to be the first sign of civilization in a society.
“The student expected her to say fish hooks, whatever, clay pots, grinding stones. But she said, ‘That’s not it,’” Kent said. “She said the first sign in ancient civilization was a femur, a thigh bone that was broken and then healed.
“And that mattered because if you broke your leg at that time, you died, you were gone. So, it showed that someone took the time to take care of that person, to heal them, to get them back to strength. She said that helping someone else through difficulty is where civilization starts.”
Kent suggested that those in the audience “are the signs of civilization and the reasons that we are best when we serve others.”
“In the history of the U.S., we’ve overcome wars, natural disasters, terrorist attacks, pandemics, epidemics,” he said. “We have a history of stepping up and helping others in need. We can do that here. However, we won’t succeed by always telling others what they need to do. We need to do it ourselves, and I won’t give up.”
Kent, a native of Central New York, is a longtime advocate for people who struggle with a substance use disorder, treatment providers who help and the recovery community. He previously worked for the state’s Office of Addiction Services and Supports.
Event sponsored by GOW CARES Alliance
He was one of several speakers at the annual event, which was sponsored by the GOW CARES Alliance, formerly known as the GOW Opioid Task Force. Sue Gagne and Amy Kabel, co-chairs of the alliance’s Family, Loved Ones & Allies work group, coordinated the observance along with Jay Baran, GOW CARES Alliance coordinator.
Genesee & Orleans Health Department employees Grace Marzolf, left; Laiken Ricker and Sherri Bensley assist an attendee at one of two dozen agency vendor booths.
Overdose Awareness Day is a worldwide movement to end overdose and to remember without stigma those who have died while acknowledging the grief of family and friends left behind. This year’s theme was Together We Can.
“That highlights the power of our communities when we all stand together and when we all work together,” Kent said, “As we gather on this day, I think of the people who are not here (due to an overdose death) and the people who I never got to meet who I know through their families and friends who love them.”
Concerning the potency of drugs today, Kent said, “I’m scared because having now worked in Washington in the White House, the drugs are getting more lethal and they’re incredibly effective at capturing someone.”
“And they’re not going to get less lethal. I would love to tell you they will, but they won’t,” he said. “We’re losing the equivalent of a small U.S. city every year … over 100,000 people … Fentanyl has changed everything.”
He noted that people more people are dying from drugs laced with fentanyl, and he said that society needs to hold government accountable for letting the cartels continue to flourish.
Pettit cites ‘shift in the playing field’
Locally, 145 people have died from a drug overdose in Genesee, Wyoming and Orleans counties since 2019, said Paul Pettit, public health director for Genesee & Orleans Health Departments.
Paul Pettit
“Drug overdose is the leading cause of injury mortality in the nation,” he said, reporting that there were 76 fatal overdoses in Genesee and 35 in Orleans since 2019 and 34 in Wyoming since 2020. “One is too many; 145 is unacceptable.”
Pettit said there has been “a shift in the playing field” in recent years, from prescription drugs to heroin to fentanyl and now to cocaine, methamphetamine and other “recreational” drugs.
He did share some good news in that, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the number of overdose deaths nationwide declined for the first time last year since 2017, and that there has been only one opioid-related death in Genesee County thus far in 2024.
Pettit pointed to the numerous initiatives supported by the health department, including analysis of wastewater to see what drugs are being used, a text for Naloxone (Narcan) line, Naloxboxes in businesses and public places, and increased Naloxone access and training.
The Rev. Erin Martin, a pastor at City Church, recounted her time in Los Angeles a few weeks ago, specifically a place called MacArthur Park.
“You go down there, and it’s so evident of the overdose and substance abuse right there in the park,” she said. “And we were with a group of people that you would go there and offer hot dogs and just asked people if they wanted prayer for anything. Then, we would direct them to a free recovery program and, honestly, it broke my heart.
Martin: That’s somebody’s love one
“It opened my eyes, but it broke my heart because I have a 20-year-old son, and I kept thinking, that’s somebody’s son, that’s somebody’s daughter, somebody’s mom, somebody’s grandpa, somebody’s dad. And while only a percentage took the opportunity to go to recovery, we let them know that recovery is possible and they’re not alone.”
Martin quoted Galatians 6:2 from the Bible: Carry each other’s burdens.
“We are here to help one another. We are here on this earth to be together,” she said. “You see, everybody needs people to laugh with, people to share things with and to celebrate life with. But friendships aren’t just about enjoying the good times together. Friendships are about sharing all times together, and that includes the good, the bad and the ugly.”
Lynda Battaglia, director of Genesee County Mental Health & Community Services, said that losing someone to an overdose can have a devastating impact that ripples across the community.
“It leaves significant grief for those left behind and while we remember those we have lost, we also heighten our dedication to reduce stigma surrounding those affected by substance use,” she said. “Every single person here today has the ability to be an agent of change.”
Battaglia said family members emphasize that their loved one “should not be defined by their diagnosis or the addiction that stole them, but should be remembered as human beings.”
“I am hopeful that the collaborative efforts by the Genesee and Orleans Fatality Review Boards help raise awareness and changes the lens from which people see addiction and overdose.”
Powerful words from a “COA”
(Left) Susan Adams, left, and daughter, Jamie Torrence, are doing their part to help those struggling with substance use disorder. (Right) Animals from Josh Frega’s Funny Farm, including Bebu the Emu (pictured) as well as geese, baby goats, rabbits and chickens, participated in the event.
Chris Budzinack Jr., son of the UConnectCare supportive living counselor who served as emcee for the event, told of growing up as a COA, or child of addiction.
He said thought that the constant fighting, yelling, his father being in and out of jail, and the family’s multiple changes of address were part of a normal life.
Only when his father finally faced his demons, reached out to God and turned his life around 15 years ago, did the young man see how his upbringing was all wrong.
“Because someone was there for him and walked with him, it allowed my dad to work on himself and become a better father and a better husband,” Budzinack Jr. said. “And the more people that gathered around us, the better our lives had gotten and we grew as people at an amazing rate.”
He said he was the first of the family to graduate from high school and went to complete what he called Leadership School.
“I have a steady job now, a beautiful wife and two kids,” he said. “I can say that recovery is possible and help is available because you’re not alone.”
CEO Bennett: A call to action
UConnectCare Chief Executive Officer John Bennett said Overdose Awareness Day is “not just a day of remembrance, it is also a call to action.”
Bennett, who has worked in the substance use treatment field for 40 years, said, “We must push for policies that prioritize mental health and addiction treatment.”
“Change begins with awareness and education, and it is our responsibility to ensure that those in need of help have access to compassionate care and recovery services.”
He said that “it boggles my mind that when we advocate for more treatment and recovery options, the community comes out with pitch forks against us.”
He and the other speakers urged people to share their stories and the stories of the loved ones they’ve lost in order to break down the stigma that often surrounds addiction.
Susan Adams of Batavia is one of those people who shared the story of her stepson, Jason, who died of a fentanyl-laced heroin overdose in October 2018. Adams was attending the observance in support of her daughter, Jamie Torrence, who works for UConnectCare.
“Jason was 32 and he left two children and one unborn,” said Adams, mentioning that he struggled with drug use since he was a teenager. “We thought he was doing OK. He had a job and kids and a baby on the way.”
She said she continues to make herself available to help others overcome their problems with drugs.
“If you can help one person, it’s worth it,” she said.
More than two dozen agencies and businesses from Genesee, Orleans and Wyoming counties participated in the event.
By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 26 August 2024 at 12:45 pm
MEDINA – Orleans Community Health has announced expansion of its MRI services at Medina Memorial Hospital, beginning Sept. 3.
Scheduling an MRI locally has been challenging in the past, according to Scott Robinson, director of Marketing, Communication and Outreach.
“The expansion of MRI services cannot be overstated,” said Erica Chutko, director of radiology and cardiac services at Orleans Community Health. “We can perform an MRI on the brain, spine, chest, abdomen, pelvis and extremities. These tests can help detect potential health concerns, such as strokes, tumors, Multiple Sclerosis and much more.
MRI services returned to Medina Memorial Hospital in the fall of 2022, with testing available one day a week. The increased demand for the service is a driver in the expansion to a second day, according to Robinson. Beginning Sept. 3, MRIs can now be scheduled from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
“This expansion is all about our desire and goal to bring services to the community,” Robinson said. “Getting an MRI in a timely manner is difficult in many places right now. We’re hoping to help alleviate that with this move.”
An MRI is a non-invasive imaging exam that does not include any radiation. To schedule an appointment, patients will need a referral from their doctor. In addition, some insurances require prior authorization. Appointments can then be scheduled with the radiology department by calling (585) 798-8054.
By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 19 August 2024 at 9:28 am
Event includes information and entertainment, while remembering those lost to cancer
LYNDONVILLE – Orleans Community Health has announced it is finalizing plans for its annual For Women Only on Oct. 3 at White Birch.
For Women Only was a yearly event for many years, returning in 2023 after a several year hiatus due to Covid-19, said Scott Robinson, director of Marketing, Communication and Outreach at Orleans Community Health.
In addition to raising funds, the event also provides educational information and entertainment to attendees, honors cancer survivors and remembers those lost to cancer.
“We’ve all known someone who has had their lives affected by cancer,” Robinson said. “FWO allows us to bring these individuals together for an evening of strength through numbers. Everyone in the room has a story to tell, and we’re lucky enough to hear many of them.”
Tickets are $30 and anyone wishing to purchase them or be a sponsor can call Lori Condo at (585) 798-8422 or click here for ticket information.
“The event will once again kick off breast cancer awareness month,” Robinson said. “While there is a traditional focus on that, we want to recognize those who have battled any form of the disease. There are plenty of individuals to honor, as well. In addition to basket raffles and other returning highlights, we’re continuing with last year’s opportunity to have loved ones included in a slide show that honors those we’ve lost, current fighters and survivors.”
KNOWLESVILLE – The Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health) are offering their final 2024 free drive-thru rabies vaccination clinics in October. Funding for the rabies clinics are provided by the New York State Department of Health.
By Dr. Sarah Smith and Dr. Kelsey Izzo, pediatricians at Oak Orchard Health.
Back to school should mean new opportunities, not new addictions. As students return to the classroom this fall, educators and parents are not only preparing for a new academic year, but also the rising public health concern of vaping.
