HEALTHCARE the Journey SPRING–SUMMER 2025 Challenge accepted How Riverside brought Gerardo back from a stroke page 4 Got wrist pain? Find relief from carpal tunnel syndrome page 10 Protein and you Learn its role in weight management and wellness page 13 HEALTH IMPACTS EVERY STEP
2 RiversideHealthcare.org Caring for an aging parent? How to reduce your risk of caregiving burnout Stepping into the role of caregiver for your older parent can be very rewarding. It’s heartfelt work—but often stressful work. If the stress becomes overwhelming, you could begin to experience a sense of exhaustion and hopelessness that experts call caregiver burnout. And at that point, you can’t properly take care of your own health, much less tend to your parent’s health and needs. Am I burned out? The symptoms of caregiver burnout can include: ● Eating too much/too little or drinking/smoking more. ● Often feeling tired or run down. ● Trouble concentrating. ● Feeling irritable or resentful toward your parent. ● Neglecting your own needs. Caregiver stress and burnout can also contribute to mental health problems, like depression, and can even harm your physical health. Molly Turner, a licensed social worker at the Riverside Cancer Institute, encourages those experiencing symptoms of burnout to seek help. “Please reach out, because we do have resources that your loved one might qualify for,” Turner says. “Unless you have already been in this role, you likely don’t know what those resources are. Sometimes just being able to sit down and talk about it, bounce things off of an uninvolved party, is very helpful.” Take action Burnout often happens when caregivers don’t take time to care for their own physical and emotional health. These tips from experts can help reduce your risk. ● Ask for help. Other family members or friends may be willing to help with some daily tasks—like driving your parent to medical appointments or running errands. They may also be willing to stay with a parent for an hour or two. ● Try to take at least a few minutes each day to unwind and recharge through hobbies or activities. ● Keep up your friendships. If you can’t leave the house, invite a friend over for coffee or lunch. ● Join a support group in person or online to share your feelings with others who may know what you’re going through and who can offer encouragement and possible solutions to ongoing problems. Sources: American Heart Association; Family Caregiver Alliance; HelpGuide Reach out To find caregiver resources, go to myrhc.net/cancer.
Spring–Summer 2025 3 THE JOURNEY is published as a community service for the friends and patrons of RIVERSIDE HEALTHCARE, 350 N. Wall St., Kankakee, IL 60901, telephone (815) 933-1671, RiversideHealthcare.org. HEALTHCARE Information in THE JOURNEY comes from a wide range of medical experts. It should not be considered or used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about specific content that may affect your health, please contact your health care provider. Models may be used in photos and illustrations. 2025 © Coffey Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. Follow Us Investing in our community It’s estimated that every 40 seconds, a person in the United States has a stroke. The unpredictability of such an event, coupled with the fear experienced by a patient and their loved ones, makes the need for quick care even more crucial. For patients like Gerardo Cahue, who shares his story on page 4, recovery from a stroke relies heavily on a care team that works together, using the best resources available. Riverside Healthcare continues its mission to provide quality care through both a dedicated team and state-of-the-art technology by its recent investment in the new neurointerventional biplane imaging suite. This technology permits a wide range of minimally invasive procedures in a single interventional suite. It provides enhanced visualization for easier navigation of the vascular system and brain. Riverside is the only area hospital—and one of the few in the state—with these imaging and neurointerventional capabilities, allowing patients to receive quality care close to home. Though a sizable investment in monetary terms, the investment in the health of the community is invaluable. However, the use of such technology is contingent on a passionate team with a shared goal to help patients. While Gerardo’s treatment did not rely on this technology, the Riverside team put him on the road to recovery. “All the team in the room at the moment did an amazing job,” he says of the emergency stroke team that helped determine his stroke was triggered by a clot. Following treatment, he went into inpatient rehabilitation and has completed physical therapy rehab. Now he’s back to doing things he loves. It’s patient experiences like these that drive what we do each day and why Riverside’s investment in community only continues to grow. Thanks for reading, and be healthy. Phil Kambic President and CEO, Riverside Healthcare Making the most of MyRiverside MyRiverside MyChart is a secure online health connection for you to access all of your health information in one place. With myRiverside MyChart, you can access your electronic medical record and take it wherever you go. You can access your health information on your desktop or through the app on your phone or tablet. MyRiverside MyChart allows you to take control of your health by scheduling appointments, checking test results, paying bills, messaging your doctor and more. You can also request access to your family’s health records so that you can manage care for your children, spouse or parents too. Take the hassle out of your health care Download the myRiverside app from the Apple App Store or Google Play today! Or sign up at riversidemychart.org.
“Oh, my, I’m in the hospital. What happened?” That’s what Gerardo Cahue wanted to ask his wife when he woke up in the intensive care unit at Riverside Medical Center. But his mouth couldn’t form the words. Cahue would later learn that he’d had a stroke. Nearly two days earlier, Cahue had started his early morning supervisor shift at a manufacturing company when he suddenly collapsed. “I fell, like a piece of wood, to the floor,” says Cahue, 64, of Frankfort, as he recalls the April 2024 incident. An ambulance rushed Cahue to Riverside, whose emergency stroke team and a neurologist determined his stroke was triggered by a clot. Cahue received medicine to dissolve the clot that was blocking his brain’s blood supply. Giving this specialized medication quickly can help reduce permanent disability. “All the team in the room at the moment did an amazing job,” Cahue says. Road to recovery After his stroke, Cahue began inpatient rehabilitation at Riverside. Over the next few weeks, he underwent extensive physical, occupational and speech therapy, provided by a “great team,” he says. He regained the use of the muscles he needs for speech, as well as other physical abilities. After his hospital discharge, Cahue continued rehab three days a week, from June to October, at Riverside’s Frankfort Campus Physical Therapy, just five minutes from his home. “He still had a lot of deficits as far as his dayto-day function,” says Cahue’s Riverside physical therapist, Alex Denklau, DPT. “A lot of what we focused on, especially during the first part of his rehab, was trying to help him regain the movement and motor skills of his larger leg muscles. We helped him do the simple things that a healthy person may take for granted—even just getting up and being Coming back from a STROKE Riverside helped Gerardo Cahue survive and thrive
Spring–Summer 2025 5 able to go to the bathroom. Those little things were very challenging.” Steady progress Cahue was motivated to get back to his active lifestyle, including playing soccer with his kids, working and completing household chores. “Those things, you could tell, really drove him,” Denklau says. After a stroke, rehab focuses on helping people overcome their deficits, often through repetitive exercises that strengthen muscles and “get them to fire again,” Denklau notes. At first, Cahue used a walker. Over time, he was able to walk with a cane—though not yet on his own. “He did a tremendous job throughout, pushing himself and often doing more than we even gave him as far as homework to do outside of therapy,” Denklau says. “He’s doing wonderfully,” Denklau adds, noting that, although Cahue has completed therapy, he still stops by to see his team on his way to doctor appointments. Feeling better, feeling grateful Cahue appreciates how his therapy team challenged him to gradually increase his activity level, never forcing but always encouraging him. Cahue says he is about 80% recovered. He is able to perform activities of daily living, including cooking and driving. And he’s hoping to return to work. Cahue expresses deep gratitude to his entire Riverside team—and to his family, including his children, Bianca and Andy, for their love and support and for taking him to and from therapy. “Thank you, God,” Cahue says. “Now I can continue my life.” His wife, Patricia Cahue, had this to say about the care her husband received in the critical first moments of his stroke and throughout his rehab journey: “They acted fast when he was in the emergency room,” she says. “And while he was in the hospital, everyone there was just absolutely amazing. It is very noticeable how much he progressed in such little time.” To celebrate, Patricia had T-shirts made for her husband with positive messages, like, “Nice try, stroke. I’m still here.” “He had a stroke, but he fought,” she says. “He fought hard and he survived.” Get back to your active life To make an appointment for physical therapy or other outpatient rehabilitation services, call (815) 214-9023. Versatile new tech at Riverside The new neurointerventional biplane imaging suite at Riverside offers procedures for stroke (e.g., thrombectomy, clipping or coiling), tumors, arteriovenous fistulas and arteriovenous malformation. Installation of the biplane (made by Siemens Icono): ● Increases efficiency and the number of procedures possible. ● Improves accuracy. ● Allows for 3D imaging. ● Decreases the need for patient transfers. Learn more on page 9. Gerardo Cahue works on various physical therapy exercises at Riverside’s Frankfort Campus. These screenshots are from videos taken by his family to track his progress.
6 RiversideHealthcare.org Advancements in cancer treatment are evolving daily. This is especially true inside the doors of Riverside Cancer Institute, where Brachytherapy is now offered. Brachytherapy is a form of radiation therapy used to treat various types of cancer, including uterine, cervical, vaginal and skin cancers. Unlike traditional external beam radiation, Brachytherapy involves placing a radioactive source directly inside or onto the tumor or target, allowing for a highly effective treatment that minimizes radiation damage to healthy tissues abutting or adjacent to a tumor. “The Brachytherapy program at Riverside is the only one in the region,” says Issra Rashed, MD, radiation oncologist with Riverside Cancer Institute. “We are excited to provide this new technology in combination with our exemplary expertise and existing state-of-the-art technology to ensure our communities have access to comprehensive cancer care.” A targeted and effective approach Brachytherapy to treat cancer
Spring–Summer 2025 7 How Brachytherapy works The procedure is typically performed using tiny radioactive pellets, or seeds, that are either placed on the tumor through applicators or inserted into the tumor through needles or catheters. Historically, Brachytherapy used to involve a more permanent or long-duration implant, called low-dose-rate (LDR) Brachytherapy, with long treatment times and patients being radioactive for a period of time after treatment. This is something that has fallen out of mainstream practice since a newer form of Brachytherapy, termed high-dose-rate (HDR) Brachytherapy, came into practice. With HDR Brachytherapy, treatment is markedly shorter on the order of minutes. Furthermore, patients are not radioactive after HDR Brachytherapy treatment and can resume normal activities between treatments. Increased safety, fewer side effects One of the key advantages of Brachytherapy is its physical properties. The radionuclides used for HDR Brachytherapy emit high doses of radiation quickly, cutting down treatment time from days and months to minutes. In addition, the radiation is not very penetrating because the radioactive source’s dose rapidly decays with distance. This means that the dose of radiation being seen by normal tissues a few centimeters from the tumor is predominantly limited to the immediate vicinity of the tumor or target and is too low to expect any significant side effects or complications. Because the radiation dose is naturally more confined with Brachytherapy, this treatment can mean less radiation exposure to more distant healthy tissues, which decreases the risks of side effects, complication rates and recovery times. When asked about her practice, Dr. Rashed emphasizes that “delivering the best possible care and helping patients achieve the best possible cancer treatment outcomes is my priority. There are times when either external beam or Brachytherapy treatment approaches are equally effective. In these scenarios, the goal is always to then choose the treatment that can minimize treatment morbidity for a patient, including the possible side effect profile as well as the logistical considerations, such as the number of treatments needed. This is where HDR Brachytherapy can often be the preferred treatment. “That I now may be able to provide patients with more treatment options is something I am very excited about. I hope that we can become an even greater hub for oncologic care with the advent of Brachytherapy to our program.” While Brachytherapy is a powerful and effective treatment, it may not be suitable for all patients or cancer types. As with any cancer treatment, the decision to use Brachytherapy is made with your doctor and is based on a thorough evaluation of your condition and the cancer’s stage. Here for every step of your cancer treatment journey The Riverside Cancer Institute provides all the care you need, close to home. To learn more, call (815) 214-9076 or visit myrhc.net/cancer. Brachytherapy is a form of radiation therapy used to treat various types of cancer, including uterine, cervical, vaginal and skin cancers.
8 RiversideHealthcare.org What’s new Coal City Campus expands services Earlier this year, the new wing of the Riverside Coal City Campus opened its doors. The space—which has doubled in size and features exam rooms, a pharmacy and chemotherapy bays—offers new and expanded services in Coal City, including physical therapy and cancer care. at Riverside Healthcare Riverside Healthcare’s mission to provide state-of-the-art care in convenient locations has yielded great changes for 2025 and beyond. From advancing technology to expanding services to upgrading facilities, Riverside continues to have much to offer to patients and their families. Expanded services: ● Cancer care and infusion services. ● Physical therapy. ● Heart care, including electrophysiology. ● New primary care provider with expanded hours. Oncology and infusion services At the Riverside Cancer Institute, we understand being close to home and family is essential when diagnosed with cancer. That’s why we’re proud to bring a complete level of cancer care to our Coal City Campus. Our multidisciplinary oncology team is dedicated to supporting you throughout your cancer journey. We will offer full-service infusion services for needs outside of a cancer diagnosis, such as rheumatology, digestive disorders and much more. Our infusion nursing team provides the highest level of care and is excited to serve you in this new setting as well.
Spring–Summer 2025 9 PET scanner and imaging upgraded Riverside’s new PET/CT scanner is the first and only permanent technology of its kind in the region, offering easier and more timely options for patients to be scheduled and eliminating the reliance on mobile scanners that visit the area weekly or monthly. This type of scanner is used for the diagnosis, staging and treatment planning of patients with various forms of cancer. It also helps with the evaluation and diagnosis of brain abnormalities, such as tumors, Alzheimer’s disease, seizures and other central nervous system disorders. Technological advances also equip the PET/CT scanner for cutting-edge cardiac and neurologic imaging. Neurointerventional biplane imaging suite now in use This new technology permits a wide range of minimally invasive procedures in a single interventional suite. It provides enhanced imaging and improved visualization for easier navigation of the vascular system and brain. Jehad Zakaria, MD, completed a fellowship at the University of Chicago to be specially trained in the technology and procedures. From there, the Interventional Team has completed training to support him and provide the best care for patients. For more information, go to myrhc.net/ neurosciences. Philanthropy supports groundbreaking medical innovations Riverside Healthcare is transforming lives with the introduction of its cutting-edge biplane imaging system—an innovation made possible through the generosity of donors to the Riverside Healthcare Foundation. This state-of-theart technology is revolutionizing the treatment of complex head, neck, spine and vascular conditions with unparalleled precision—often without the need for invasive surgery. Using dual rotating cameras, biplane imaging creates a real-time, 3D road map of a patient’s vascular system, enabling doctors to swiftly diagnose and treat life-threatening conditions like aneurysms and strokes. As the only health care facility in our region with this groundbreaking technology and the specialized expertise to use it, Riverside is ensuring that families in our community have access to the highest level of care, right here at home. None of this would be possible without the compassionate generosity of donors like you. Since 1968, the Riverside Healthcare Foundation has been dedicated to advancing health care by securing philanthropic support for groundbreaking medical innovations. Every gift, large or small, plays a direct role in saving lives—whether by funding state-of-the-art technology, expanding critical services or ensuring that the best possible care is always within reach. Shape the future of health care When you give to Riverside, you become part of something greater: a community dedicated to healing, hope and life-changing impact. Your generosity has the power to shape the future of health care. Join us in making a difference—because together, we save lives. Visit RiversideHealthcare.org/Foundation to learn how you can make an impact.
10 RiversideHealthcare.org Your wrist is a small part of your body, but it can be a big pain if you have carpal tunnel syndrome. Carpal tunnel is a condition that causes pain, numbness and tingling in the hand and forearm. What is carpal tunnel syndrome? The carpal tunnel is a passage for nerves and tendons that runs through the wrist. When it narrows, it puts pressure on the median nerve, one of the main nerves in your hand. The median nerve starts in the neck and travels through your arms and down to your fingers. Usually, carpal tunnel is the result of a combination of risk factors, which include: ● Heredity. ● Injury to the wrist. ● Repetitive hand motion. ● Pregnancy. Signs of carpal tunnel can be tricky to pick up on because they come on gradually. They might include: ● Pain or tingling that moves up your forearm. ● Pain, burning or numbness in the fingers. ● Dropping objects due to hand weakness or numbness. Carpal tunnel treatment If you notice any symptoms, it’s time to talk to your healthcare provider. During an evaluation, your hands and wrists will be examined and tested. This physical examination is often all that’s needed for a diagnosis. Sometimes, lab tests such as an x-ray or ultrasound may be needed. Your doctor might refer you to an orthopedic doctor, who specializes in bones, joints, muscles and nerves. Nonsurgical treatments Carpal tunnel can be treated more easily when it’s caught early. Here are some treatments you might try at home: ● Wear a brace. Keeping the wrist still, especially at night, reduces pressure on the nerve. ● Take anti-inflammatories. Over-the-counter pain medicines, like ibuprofen and naproxen, or a cortisone injection can ease inflammation and pain. ● Change your movement. If the way you move—or don’t move—your wrist is causing the problem, then you can make adjustments to help soothe it. ● Exercise. A healthcare provider or physical therapist can teach you simple movements that can help. Surgical treatments If nonsurgical treatments don’t provide lasting relief, an orthopedic surgeon can perform an in-office procedure that releases the pressure on the median nerve. “It’s not something you just have to live with,” says Taruna Madhav Crawford, MD, hand and orthopedic surgeon at Riverside Orthopedic Specialists. “It’s something that we can treat effectively in an appropriate fashion.” Make an appointment If you have questions about carpal tunnel or would like an appointment with a Riverside Medical Group Orthopedic Specialists provider, visit myrhc.net/ orthopedicsurgery or call (815) 214-9087. Sources: American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons; National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases Carpal tunnel syndrome: It’s all in the wrist
Spring–Summer 2025 11 What you need to know about atrial fibrillation It is estimated that 2.7 million Americans have atrial fibrillation (AFib), a condition in which the top and bottom portions of the heart are out of sync. The result may be a rapid or irregular heartbeat, a fluttering sensation in the chest, dizziness, weakness, shortness of breath, and general fatigue. Physicians like Abhimanyu Beri, MD, a clinical cardiac electrophysiologist at the Riverside Heart & Vascular Institute, address these issues on a daily basis. “The heart is a complex organ; imagine it like a complex pump,” Dr. Beri explains. “It needs a plumber, an electrician and multiple different systems that make the heart work. An electrophysiologist is like an electrician. I work on the rhythm of the heart to make sure it keeps beating in sync. My training enables me to help diagnose and treat conditions that may be arising as a result of problems in the electrical system of a patient’s heart.” What causes AFib? Causes behind AFib are multifold. The most common are genetics, diabetes, untreated sleep apnea, being overweight or obese, alcohol consumption in large quantities, and a history of congestive heart failure. “The list is long, but these are the most common conditions that can precipitate or cause atrial fibrillation,” Dr. Beri says. Identifying and diagnosing AFib Unfortunately, some patients have no idea they are in a state of AFib. The body continues to perform. Much like other chronic medical conditions, AFib can be a “silent killer.” In fact, the first symptom AFib often presents is a stroke. Treatment options A primary concern with AFib is to recognize your risk of stroke and how that risk can be lowered. One option is to start taking blood thinners. Ultimately, treatment needs to be individualized to each patient. “Not everyone is the same,” Dr. Beri says. “We cannot ignore the symptoms of one versus the other. We encourage patients to meet with their doctor. And we are always available for consultation to help guide the most appropriate care for our patients.” Find out how we can help you To learn more about what the Riverside Heart & Vascular Institute offers, visit myrhc.net/heart.
12 RiversideHealthcare.org The surprising benefits of probiotic soda Probiotic soda, a functional beverage gaining popularity, offers a refreshing twist on gut health. Combining the fizz of traditional sodas with the benefits of probiotics, these drinks are a convenient way to support your well-being. Here’s a breakdown of the key benefits. Supports gut health Probiotic sodas are rich in live, beneficial bacteria that help maintain a healthy gut microbiome. The gut microbiome contains trillions of microorganisms essential for digestion and nutrient absorption. By promoting a balance of good bacteria, probiotics can reduce bloating, improve regularity and support overall digestive health. Kendree’a Hodges, FNP-BC, a Riverside Healthcare primary care provider, says, “These drinks are a gentle way to introduce probiotics into your diet, especially if you experience digestive discomfort.” Bolsters immune function A healthy gut is closely tied to a robust immune system. Probiotics support the body’s natural defenses by strengthening the intestinal barrier and enhancing immune response. Drinking probiotic soda can be an easy addition to your routine, helping to keep illnesses at bay. Offers a healthier alternative to traditional sodas Probiotic sodas often replace artificial ingredients and high sugar content with more natural options. Many brands use natural sweeteners, fruit juices and even added fiber for better digestion. These drinks are usually lower in calories, making them suitable for various dietary preferences. “Probiotic soda provides the enjoyment of a carbonated drink without the excess sugar or empty calories,” says Hodges. Features unique, enjoyable flavors From ginger-lime to blueberry-lavender, probiotic sodas come in creative, palate-pleasing varieties. These flavors make them versatile for different occasions, whether as a midday refresher or a substitute for alcoholic beverages. The creative combinations also encourage hydration while delivering health benefits. Is an easy option Unlike some health products, probiotic sodas are readily available and easy to incorporate into daily life. They offer a simple way to get probiotics without making significant dietary changes. They can complement other healthy choices, like eating fiber-rich foods or staying hydrated with water. While these drinks are beneficial, Hodges recommends enjoying them in moderation. “They shouldn’t replace water as your primary hydration source, and it’s important to choose high-quality options,” she says. Take charge of your health. Find the right primary care provider for you at myrhc.net/acceptingnew.
Spring–Summer 2025 13 Managing weight, diabetes and wellness The importance of protein in your diet Developing and maintaining healthy habits is key to successfully managing weight, navigating a diabetes diagnosis or simply promoting overall wellness. Protein is a crucial nutrient that plays a significant role in a healthy diet. It aids in hunger regulation, supports metabolism, and helps build and repair tissues. Stay satisfied One key benefit of protein is its ability to help you feel fuller for longer, which can reduce overall calorie intake and prevent overeating. This is particularly important for people managing diabetes or trying to maintain or lose weight. Unlike carbohydrates, protein takes longer to digest, keeping hunger at bay and helping you avoid unnecessary snacking. Maintain muscle mass Protein helps preserve lean muscle mass. When you lose weight, your body typically loses both fat and muscle. Studies have shown that people with diabetes are more prone to muscle loss. A diet rich in protein, combined with healthy exercise habits, can help prevent the muscle loss that can come with losing weight. Maintaining muscle mass also supports a higher metabolism, aiding in long-term weight management. Boost your immune system Protein is essential for wellness. It supports immune function, enzyme production and hormone regulation, contributing to better health and energy levels. Protein also helps repair damaged cells, which is vital for recovery after exercise, injury or illness. To make sure your diet is rich in healthy proteins, focus on lean meats like seafood and skinless chicken breast, eggs, low-fat dairy, and plant-based proteins like beans; chickpeas; tofu; and low-sugar, low-sodium nut butters. Here to support you For help developing healthy habits to manage weight and improve wellness, try Riverside’s Weigh to Healthy Living program. This six-month program addresses nutrition, exercise, behavior and medical intervention. To learn more, visit myrhc.net/endocrinology or call Riverside Endocrinology Specialists at (815) 214-9105. Hummus Makes 10 servings. Ingredients 2 cans (15-ounce) no-salt-added chickpeas, drained, liquid reserved 5 garlic cloves, minced 1⁄ 3 cup tahini 5 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice 2 tablespoons reserved chickpea liquid 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil Salt, to taste Olive oil, paprika or parsley sprigs for garnish, optional Directions ● Place all ingredients except salt and optional garnish in food processor. ● Process until mixture is coarsely puréed. Add salt, to taste. ● Garnish with a dash of olive oil, paprika or parsley sprigs. Serve at room temperature or chilled. Nutrition information Serving size: ¼ cup. Amount per serving: 100 calories, 6g total fat (1g saturated fat, 0g trans fat), 0mg cholesterol, 8g carbohydrates, 3g protein, 2g dietary fiber, 100mg sodium. Source: American Institute for Cancer Research
14 RiversideHealthcare.org Understanding and preventing sudden infant death syndrome Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) is a heartbreaking problem that takes the lives of seemingly healthy babies, usually during sleep. It happens most often to young babies. The cause of SIDS is not known. Research suggests it might be caused by problems in the part of the brain that controls breathing. While mysteries about this condition remain, experts have identified some risks and ways to reduce them. “SIDS is a deeply concerning condition, but by understanding the risks and taking preventive steps, we can significantly reduce its occurrence,” says Rosvida San Gabriel, MD, a pediatrician at Riverside Healthcare. “Educating parents about safe sleep practices is key.” Risk factors for SIDS Premature birth, multiple births and low birth weight can increase the likelihood of SIDS. Other factors that can raise the risk are: ● Stomach sleeping. Babies who sleep on their stomachs or sides are at a higher risk of SIDS. ● Soft bedding. Fluffy blankets, pillows and stuffed toys can interfere with a baby’s breathing. ● Sleeping on an incline or with the baby’s head elevated poses a risk. ● Bed-sharing causes a greater chance of the baby being accidentally smothered. ● Overheating. If your baby is sweating or their skin is flushed, it could be a sign of heat distress, which is linked to a higher risk. Reducing the risk of SIDS Fortunately, there are steps you can take to create a safer sleep environment for your baby. Always place your baby on their back to sleep. This is the most effective way to reduce the risk of SIDS. Breastfeed. It can cut a baby’s risk of SIDS by half. Share a room, not a bed. It’s safest for your baby to sleep in the same room as you at least for the first six months. Put them down on a separate sleep surface, like a crib or bassinet. Keep a comfortable temperature. Dress your baby in light sleepwear and avoid heavy blankets. Keep the baby’s head uncovered. Offer a pacifier. Using a pacifier during naps and bedtime can help reduce the risk of SIDS. Maintain a smoke- and vape-free home. Keep your baby’s air clean and fresh. “The best thing parents can do is focus on creating a safe sleep environment,” Dr. San Gabriel says. “That means keeping it simple— no blankets, toys or bumpers in the crib, just a firm mattress with a fitted sheet and your baby placed on their back.” SIDS is devastating. By knowing the risk factors and following a few simple guidelines, you can help protect your baby and create a safer sleep environment. Sources: American Academy of Pediatrics; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Make an appointment If you have questions about SIDS, contact your pediatrician. Find the right Riverside pediatrician for your family at myrhc.net/acceptingnew. G R L I V I N G G R L I V I N G G R L I V I N G
Spring–Summer 2025 15 K A N K A K E E I R O Q U O I S W I L L C O O K R U N D Y G S T O N F O R D Kankakee Bradley Momence Manteno Wilmington Coal City Pembroke Watseka Gilman Frankfort Ashkum St. Anne Herscher Bourbonnais 57 55 80 1 52 45 45 52 17 53 47 24 6 30 41 17 102 113 115 45 52 (815) 933-1671 350 North Wall Street | Kankakee, Illinois 60901 RiversideHealthcare.org Revised 7/2024 Learn more about the way we care. Main Campus Riverside Medical Center (including emergency room) Healthcare Campuses Bourbonnais Campus Coal City Campus* Frankfort Campus Watseka Campus* Immediate Care Bradley/Atrium Coal City Kankakee/Pavilion Watseka Ambulance Stations Ashkum Bradley Gilman Herscher Momence St. Anne Watseka Outpatient Centers Kankakee East Court Pembroke Manteno Wilmington Momence Senior Life Communities Kankakee Campus Bourbonnais Campus *Immediate Care services on-site RIVERSIDE SERVICE AREA K A N K A K E E I R O Q U O I S R U N D Y G S T O N F O R D Kankakee Bradley Momence Pembroke Watseka Gilman Ashkum St. Anne Herscher Bourbonnais 55 1 52 45 17 24 41 17 113 115 45 52 (815) 933-1671 350 North Wall Street | Kankakee, Illinois 60901 RiversideHealthcare.org Learn more about the way we care. Kankakee/Pavilion Watseka Ambulance Stations Ashkum Bradley Gilman Herscher Momence St. Anne Watseka Outpatient Centers Kankakee East Court Pembroke Manteno Wilmington Momence Senior Life Communities Kankakee Campus Bourbonnais Campus *Immediate Care services on-site K A N K A K E E I R O Q U O I S R U N D Y G S T O N F O R D Kankakee Bradley Momence Manteno Wilmington Coal City Pembroke Watseka Gilman Ashkum St. Anne Herscher Bourbonnais 55 1 52 45 52 17 47 24 41 17 102 113 115 45 52 (815) 933-1671 350 North Wall Street | Kankakee, Illinois 60901 RiversideHealthcare.org Learn more about the way we care. Coal City Campus* Frankfort Campus Watseka Campus* Immediate Care Bradley/Atrium Coal City Kankakee/Pavilion Watseka Ambulance Stations Ashkum Bradley Gilman Herscher Momence St. Anne Watseka Outpatient Centers Kankakee East Court Pembroke Manteno Wilmington Momence Senior Life Communities Kankakee Campus Bourbonnais Campus *Immediate Care services on-site Expert care. Close to home. Revised 2/2025
HEALTHCARE 350 N. Wall St. Kankakee, IL 60901 Standard U.S. Postage PAID Walla Walla, WA Permit No. 44 Ways to listen “Well Within Reach” and “Conversations on Cancer” are available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, iHeart Radio or wherever you listen to podcasts. Make sure to subscribe, share with friends and leave a review! A dose of wellness on the go! Riverside Healthcare puts the right dose of health in the wellness information you need. Listen to our podcast series, “Well Within Reach,” to get the latest health and wellness information from our team of experts, including doctors, medical staff and leaders in the health care field. The Riverside Cancer Institute is here to provide you with everything you need to know about cancer. On the “Conversations on Cancer” podcast, our team of experts discusses everything from treatment options and new technology to cancer myths versus facts. You’ll also hear stories of courage, strength and resilience. Join our award-winning team!
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