Health Help |

Following a calling: Mercy Pediatric Doctor, Dr. Remi Fasipe

December 7, 2020 By: admin

It really is a small world. We feel grateful to Dr. Remi Fasipe, even though prior to this interview, we didn’t really know too much about her.

Rewind 6 months ago. One of our dear friends walked through a scary, scary season of her life. Her oldest son had been experiencing some rather odd symptoms and she was ~~concerned~~ scared. After a couple of sleepless nights, several serious conversations with her husband and a lot of prayer, our friend made the call to Mercy Kids, and thank goodness she did. Within days she had an appointment with Dr. Fasipe, Pediatric Hematologist Oncologist, questions were answered and they began to explore best treatment options for her son.

Dr. Fasipe, that is just one story that has touched us. Thank you for following your calling and walking down this journey with our kids–your patients.

We loved having the opportunity to understand the work you do a little better! Mommas, enjoy this read and thank goodness for amazing doctors right here in Southwest Missouri from our sponsors at Mercy Kids!

We understand your official title is Pediatric Hematologist Oncologist. What exactly does that mean?

I basically treat children with cancer and blood disorders.

What would an ideal day at work look like for you?

I meet with clinic staff to discuss patients for the day at 8:30 a.m. Patients start to arrive around 9 a.m. I see about 10 to 16 patients a day, I also return phone calls to physicians and parents. The clinic might start out with 10 patients and then I get a call about a patient who needs to be seen right away for suspicion of cancer. If the patient does have cancer, then I have to break the sad news to the family and explain the diagnosis and treatment plan.

When I see my patients, I try to get to know them and learn their favorite toys, sports or best friend, school, favorite TV show, movie, books and their siblings so they don’t think they are just coming here to undergo treatment.

I have had to memorize names of Thomas the Train engines, knock knock jokes, dance moves, because the patients look forward to their favorite conversation every week. It keeps me young at heart. The fun part is the no mo chemo party. That is always very rewarding, especially if they had a complicated treatment, it is a party for everyone.

Clinic usually ends at 4:30 p.m., but I might get called at night to admit a patient to the hospital, so the day never really ends.

What does the St. Jude Affiliate Clinic offer in terms of treatment and care for children in Southwest Missouri?

Being a St. Jude Affiliate Clinic allows us to enroll patients throughout southwest Missouri and northern Arkansas in clinical research trials right here at Mercy Children’s Hospital Springfield at the Jane Pitt Pediatric Cancer Center.

We make it possible for children battling cancer or lifelong blood disorder to receive exceptional treatment, close to home without having to travel 4 hours every week for treatment. We have helped thousands of children with cancer and blood-related disorders. Our insurance specialist can assist families with their insurance and financial needs irrespective of their insurance or ability to pay allowing families to concentrate on the health and healing of their child.

St. Jude Affiliate Clinic Team at the Jane Pitt Pediatric Center

What new medical advancements do you get most excited about?

Progress made in the battle to cure childhood cancer is one of the great success stories of modern medicine. Some diseases that were universally fatal 50 years ago, such as pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia, can now be cured in approximately 90% of patients.

Despite this success, there are a subset of pediatric tumors such as Metastatic sarcomas of the bone and soft tissue, Supratentorial high grade and brain stem gliomas that still have a poor outcome with less than 5 year survival rates despite high dose chemotherapy. This is where targeted therapy comes into play.

Targeted therapy is a treatment that targets specific molecules in or on cancer cells, or in the tumor’s immediate surroundings. Targeted therapies work by focusing on the ways cancer cells act differently from healthy cells and interrupting these processes. They “target” processes that play an important role in cancer growth so that cancer cells are unable to increase. An example of this would be stopping blood vessels that “feed” cancer cells, or interfering with signals that the cancer cells need for growth. While each type of targeted therapy works differently, they all aim to disrupt the way cancer cells duplicate and interact with other cells. With increasing knowledge of the molecular basis of cancer, medications are being designed specific pathways in cancers.

What advice do you offer to the parents of kids that have been diagnosed with an illness?

When your child is diagnosed with cancer it creates a crisis in the life of each family member and everything is spinning wildly out of control. It is extremely difficult to imagine this cancer journey. Parents must be away from work. Siblings might need to be cared for by relatives. The sick child (the patient) becomes the major focus of family time and attention. There are new medical terms to learn and new procedures and routines to master. Perhaps the hardest thing to deal with is the overwhelming unfairness of the situation. “This shouldn’t happen to kids-especially my kid!”

I always tell parents to keep themselves well informed and ask questions and develop trust in the cancer team, nurses and doctors. It is important to find support in prayer or their religious faith. I always say it not an easy road, but we are in this together. I would also say they should seek support from other family members that can help with clinic appointments or stay in the hospital with the child, pick up other siblings from school so they don’t get burnt out. It is easy for parents to neglect themselves, but I always say, to parents you need to be well to look after your sick child.

If I am concerned about my child, can I call your office directly?

Definitely, parents, physicians can call my office at 417 820 5833 at any time to discuss their concerns.

Describe the best part of your job.

I love my patients and their families, they teach me so much about life, love, family, friendship, perseverance, gratitude, and even me. They are the sweetest, most appreciative, and grateful people I meet. Their entire world has been rocked by a diagnosis of cancer or lifelong blood disorder, and somehow, they still seem to find the strength within themselves to fight—fight for life, family, and themselves.

They become so grateful for the little things in life, no matter how bad things get. They understand that family and love are important. In all of their pain (physical, mental, and emotional), nausea, life threatening infections, fever, and sadly death—if I am able to make just a tiny difference in my patients’ day, then I have done my job. Being a Pediatric Oncologist also helps me to keep things in perspective within my own life. No matter how hard or bad I think my day is, it is never as bad as my patients’.

My job reminds me every day how important it is to be grateful to God for the little things—being able to walk, breathe, eat, spend time with my family, the many things we take for granted. Why oncology? First it is my calling, it is where I belong and I love children. It is a privilege to navigate this healing, spiritual and emotional journey with my patients and their families.

SouthwestMissouriMoms.com does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. This content is for informational purposes only and isn’t a substitute for professional medical advice. Always talk to your doctor if you have questions about a medical condition. Don’t delay getting professional medical advice because of something you read online. This website doesn’t necessarily recommend or endorse any specific tests, doctors, products, procedures or opinions discussed on the site.

Health Help: Overcoming the Holiday Blues

December 5, 2018 By: admin

For many of our family and friends, the holiday season is not the “most wonderful time of the year.” In fact, it can be just the opposite. The holidays can be a stressful and sad time. The good news? You are not alone.

Our sponsors at Mercy are here to help. We recently had the opportunity to chat with Anne Colvin, PsyD, Mercy Clinic Behavioral Health. Dr. Colvin offers some great practical tips for those that might be struggling to the find the joy during this busy time of year.

You can reach Dr. Colvin at the Mercy Clinic Behavioral Health-Lark location (1312 E. Lark Street, Springfield) or give her office a call to schedule an appointment at 417.820.3707.

What are 3-4 symptoms of someone who may be dealing with the holiday blues?

The common symptoms of “holiday blues” would be signs of stress, such as: sleep disturbance, decreased energy, worry, and perfectionism (high expectations, inflexibility, etc). Knowing your personal signs of distress are important so you can identify the red flags early, keeping a journal each year to monitor thoughts, stress and symptoms can be helpful as you plan for the holidays.

Are there ways that I could feel better on my own?

Healthy habits are made each and every day and need to be maintained, especially during stressful times. Taking time for yourself is often the first thing to go when we have a number of demands pulling us in different directions. Continue to exercise, eat regularly, make healthy food choices, and get enough sleep. We are often focused outward during the holidays, balancing the demands and focusing on the things we hope to accomplish. So, don’t forget to look inward at what your personal needs are.

Ask for help. Don’t forget to turn to your support network. I encourage people to be specific in what they need, like asking, “Could you pick up the kids for me so that I can do some shopping on my own tonight?” Then, follow up with showing them how much they mean to you, by saying, “Thank you. Picking up the kids for me helped out so much.”

Plan, organize, and control what you can. Consider what you can control and work to make changes in those areas. We have so many things that fall outside our control, but we can often control our choices. Many will do last-minute shopping, which can quickly add to stress. So, make a plan for what you will buy, set a budget, and stick to it. In addition, be careful to not overbook yourself, and say “no” when needed. Say “yes” to only what you can reasonably handle. You’ll be doing yourself a big favor!

Stress-related events, such as the holidays, can be a trigger for people. For some, they simply do not find the joy in the holidays that others are experiencing. They may feel loneliness due to not having family to celebrate alongside, or relapse into unhealthy habits. For those coping with the stress through alcohol misuse, they’ll want to prepare for times of stress by joining a support group (such as Alcoholics Anonymous), plan for vulnerable times, and meet regularly with your therapist.

Remember those with whom you won’t be celebrating this holiday season. For many, the holidays hold memories of loved ones lost. Take time to reflect about those who are no longer here to celebrate and find a meaningful and positive way to remember them, such as lighting a candle in your mother’s memory, or enjoying your uncle’s favorite side dish.

If you are already seeing a counselor, then make extra visits. People will often miss during the holidays. For some, additional visits might help you to keep your balance and perspective. Don’t miss doses of your medications because skipping some medications can exacerbate symptoms of anxiety and depression.

How do I know when I should seek professional help?

An important consideration is whether symptoms are affecting personal relationships, work, or academic performance.

Seek medical attention for symptoms such as hopelessness, sadness or emotional numbing, tearfulness, loss of interest in things you once found pleasurable, suicidal thoughts, or thoughts of death. You are not alone. Ask for help and seek out a professional.

If I find that I need professional help, where do I turn?

A primary care physician, counselor, psychologist, or psychiatrist would all be appropriate places to turn to if symptoms worsen.

Are there red flags I should be aware of among my children, family, or friends during the holidays?

Children have particular difficulty as they lack the language and resources to express what they are feeling and what their needs are. They will more commonly “show” those adults closest to them through behavior changes. Be mindful of red flags such as moodiness or irritability, poor sleep and fatigue, and withdrawal from friends and special interests. In my practice, I notice people becoming increasingly in crisis mode, getting stuck in the negative or a problem focusing instead of adapting and shifting to solutions when stressed. Looking out for these changes in mood, behavior, and perceptions are some of the red flags to consider. When you see these, approach those you care about and work together to make a plan to get them the help they need.

How can I help my children, family members and friends that may be dealing with a case of the holiday blues?

Be a support. Help them to be easier on themselves, instead of focusing on how things should be or must be. Ask for specific ways you can be helpful to them, such as offering to come over and help a friend put up the holiday decorations or encouraging your children to take time for themselves and prioritizing commitments. Be mindful of over-scheduling or unrealistic expectations.

Leo Tolstoy once said, “If you look for perfection, you’ll never be content.”

By simply shifting perceptions or expectations, one can significantly reduce stress. Not only perceptions of self, but don’t forget to have realistic expectations of those around you.

Do the holiday blues just go away after the holiday season?

By refocusing your efforts towards self-care and realistic perceptions, symptoms will improve. However, if symptoms worsen, seek medical attention. If you have had a pattern of depression throughout the winter months with symptoms of irritability, fatigue, weight gain, and relationship issues see your physician or mental health provider for diagnostic clarification and planning a treatment approach that works for you. Some individuals with these symptoms could be experiencing seasonal affective disorder.

Phototherapy (light therapy), medications to address serotonin levels or melatonin deficiency, or counseling can help you cope with stress. Working with a therapist can help you to improve your stress management techniques and find those coping skills that work for you – helping you to prepare for the coming year and tackle resiliently any stress that comes your way!

Note from Kelli and Mindi: Thank you Dr. Colvin! We appreciate your time and your commitment to the women, children and families in Southwest Missouri! Your work is appreciated and does not go unnoticed! Thank you for looking out for us! =)

Health Help: Breast Cancer Awareness Month with Mercy

October 22, 2018 By: admin

Mommas, it is time to take control of your health. Become educated and stop putting yourself last. Your health is important.

We originally posted this information last October, but we know we could use the reminder, so thought maybe you could too! Moms, take care of yourself! You are worth it!

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month and we challenge all of our readers to take some time to become educated about breast health. But, where to start?

Our sponsors at Mercy can help.

The Mercy Breast Center-Springfield is a comprehensive breast center that utilizes a multidisciplinary approach to care. Their team is made up of surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologist, dedicated breast imaging radiologist, pathologists, nurse navigators, genetic counselors, chaplain, psychologist, technologists and many other support providers and support services. The center is accredited by the American College of Radiology as a Center of Excellence and their Breast Care Team is accredited by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers.

The focus of the center is to detect breast cancer at its earliest, most treatable stage and to provide outstanding care for the patient from diagnosis through survivorship. Most of their patients are women, forty and over, but they also see younger women and male patients who have breast symptoms. They perform screening mammograms, diagnostic mammograms, breast ultrasound, breast MRI, breast biopsies and genetic assessments and counseling.

We had a chance to ask a few questions to the experts at Mercy Breast Center. We hope you find this information as helpful as we do!

1.) At what age should a woman begin self-examinations?

We recommend that women in their 20’s be aware of how their breasts normally look and feel and to report any new breast changes to a health professional. We provide teaching tools for performing breast self exams. Clinical breast exams are recommended beginning at age 20.

2.) When should we have our first mammogram?

We follow the American College of Radiology (ACR), American Cancer Society, (ACS), Society of Breast Imaging (SBI) and guidelines of other national organizations which recommends annual screening mammograms beginning at the age of 40.

3.) Understanding that genetics plays a large factor, has there been any research that tells us ways we can try to prevent breast cancer?

Although numerous studies have examined the relationship between food consumption (including fat, soy, dairy, meat, fruits and vegetables) and breast cancer, there is no conclusive evidence that diet influences breast cancer risk. Growing evidence suggests that women who get regular physical activity have a lower risk of breast cancer compared to women who are inactive.

Alcohol consumption and tobacco use increase the risk as well. While research hasn’t been able to tell us what we can do to prevent breast cancer, we know that routine mammography is the best tool for detecting breast cancer at its earliest and most treatable stage.

4.) If we have a loved one that has been diagnosed with breast cancer, what can we do to help?

Showing interest and concern is a way to help a loved one who has been diagnosed with breast cancer. Listening will be important. You can seldom go wrong when you genuinely respond from the heart.

5.) Can you provide any advice to a woman that has been recently diagnosed?

It’s important for women diagnosed with breast cancer to know that they are not alone. There are professionals devoted to assist breast cancer patients throughout this new journey. Mercy Cancer Resource Center, the American Cancer Society, the Breast Cancer Foundation of the Ozarks and other resources are readily available to provide practical services, education and support to both the patient and her family.

If you have questions or concerns, don’t wait. Call the experts at Mercy Breast Center today at 417.820.2500.

Health Help: Ultimate Guide to Swimming Safety

June 8, 2018 By: admin

While nothing beats a fun day at the water, it can be a nerve-wracking time for mommas!

Did you know drowning rates are highest for children ages 1 to 4 and the second most common age group at risk to die from drowning is 5 to 9?

Those are pretty terrifying statistics for moms like you and I. With the Ozark weather warming up and the beautiful swimming options we have right here in SWMO, moms like you and I are searching for information about how to keep our kiddos safe while they swim.

The moms at momlovesbest.com have compiled a complete guide to swimming safety and there is some great info you may want to check out. Click here to view the Ultimate Guide to Swimming Safety for Kids.

Have fun out there mommas, and stay safe!

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month – Protect your skin

May 14, 2018 By: admin

By Kelli Artherton

The warm weather is finally here and I think it’s actually here to stay. BBQ and pool season is just about to kick off and that means more sun exposure to our skin.

May is actually skin cancer awareness month. With over 5 million cases diagnosed in the United States each year, skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. Fortunately, skin cancer is also one of the most preventable forms of cancer. About 90 percent of nonmelanoma skin cancers and 85 percent of melanoma cases are associated with exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun. By raising awareness of the dangers of unprotected exposure and encouraging sun-safe habits, we can change behaviors and save lives.

It’s so important that we all protect our skin. No matter what age you are, if you aren’t wearing a daily sunscreen, you need to start today. (If you need a good sunscreen click here to see the one I use daily for my face) Our skin is such a crucial part of our health. If you are a young momma you need to lather your babies up with sunscreen every time they are outside.

Let’s take a trip down memory lane for a minute. I know we have all been young and naive, where we wanted a tan and we would do anything to get one. We would lay outside until we had tan lines, wouldn’t listen to our mommas telling us to put sunscreen on, because let’s face it, we tan better without it, right? Ha! Wrong answer. I learned this the hard way. I was this redheaded, 12 year old, freckly little girl telling my momma this line all to many times. I wanted a tan and I was going to lay out all day. (Click here to read my story, Dear 12 year old me.)

This is what malignant melanoma looks like.

Well, fast forward to my mid twenties, I went into to a doctors appointment for a check up. The doctor had noticed all of my freckles and moles and asked me if I had ever had my moles checked out. I never had, never thought any of my moles looked strange so didn’t see the need for it. The doctor then asked me if any of my moles had changed over the years. I mentioned that one of my moles had actually grown a little bit, but never thought anything of it. The doctor said we should probably remove that mole just to be safe, I’m sure it’s absolutely nothing.

A week passed by and I get the call I wasn’t expecting. A voice on the phone tells me “you have the first stage of malignant melanoma.” What? Are you sure? I thought I had nothing to worry about. Wow, ok, now what?

I tell you my story to encourage you to protect your skin. The sun is good for our health, but we have to be careful in the sun. Have fun outside, but protect that precious skin of yours. I now get checked every six months for skin cancer, and have had over 15 moles removed. I ended up with another malignant melanoma mole a few years after my first one, and the doctor said to not be suprised if I have more in the future. 🙁

Skin cancer is no joke, and malignant melanoma is the fastest growing skin cancer and can also be deadly. If you don’t catch it fast enough in can be in your blood stream very quickly. Please let my story and other stories of your friends and family make you think twice about stepping out into the sun unprotected.

Be safe out there this summer mommas!!