Riverside Healthcare | The Journey | Winter 2022

Winter 2022 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. 2022 © Coffey Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. Follow Us Welcome! This is the second edition of The Journey, a publication focused on sharing stories about some of the great work being done at Riverside. The Journey also contains health and wellness information that can help you on your journey to be your best self. This issue’s cover story features Riverside heart patient Brian Choquette, who survived a variety of cardiac issues that were lifethreatening. Initially, Brian chalked up the things he was experiencing— fatigue, trouble sleeping, shortness of breath—to getting older. Actually, these were symptoms of some serious heart conditions that required advanced surgery. Fortunately for Brian, Riverside had the skilled, experienced cardiothoracic surgeon and staff to take care of his issues and get him on his successful road to recovery. It always makes me proud to know the Riverside team is able to provide advanced, lifesaving care to a member of the community, allowing them to be with their families and friends on their own remarkable journey. Best of health, Phillip Kambic, President and CEO, Riverside Healthcare Boost your defense against COVID-19 The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration have recommended booster shots of the COVID-19 vaccines within certain high-risk populations. Individuals who received either a Pfizer or a Moderna COVID-19 vaccine, who are considered to be a part of the high-risk populations, can receive a booster shot at six months or later after their initial series. For individuals who received a Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine, boosters are recommended for those who are 18 and older who were vaccinated two or more months ago. Millions of people are now eligible for booster shots and will benefit from the additional protection the booster shot provides; however, there are still many people who have not received their initial COVID-19 vaccine. According to the CDC, more than 65 million Americans remain unvaccinated, which leaves them and their families and communities vulnerable. Boosters for COVID-19 vaccines can be found at many retail pharmacies throughout the community. Riverside Healthcare is offering initial COVID-19 vaccinations at several locations throughout the Riverside system. You can schedule your appointment through your myRiverside account online or through the app.

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