We are pleased to report that Reaccreditation of the Stroke Centers at Heritage Valley Beaver and Heritage Valley Sewickley has been awarded by the Joint Commission. Successful surveys were recently held, and there were no quality of care issues found in our patient processes. This certification identifies Heritage Valley’s programs as being capable of providing prompt evaluation and treatment to any stroke patient who arrives at HVB or HVS.

A key aspect of the Heritage Valley Stroke Response Teams is the “telestroke” system that Heritage Valley has developed with Pittsburgh hospitals. Heritage Valley Beaver physicians are connected by video to neurologists at UPMC facilities, and Heritage Valley Sewickley physicians are connected to neurologists at Allegheny General Hospital.

Breath’n Easy is a program made available by Heritage Valley Health System and your child’s physician to help you and your child better understand and manage pediatric asthma. The program is designed for those under the age of 18 who have experienced asthma symptoms and deals with topics such as:

• Signs & Symptoms of Asthma
• What Can Cause an Asthma Attack
• How to Trigger-Proof Your Home
• How to Take Medications Correctly

Throughout the year, you and your child will receive the Breath’n Easy newsletter containing information and tips on asthma. Depending on your child’s needs, experienced pediatric nurses may call you or come to your home. These nurses work closely with you, your child and your child’s physician.

The Breath’n Easy program is offered free of charge by the Heritage Valley Community Health Services Department. Either you or your child’s physician can refer your child into the program. For more information and to complete an interest form, click here. You may also call 866-328-8389, option 3.

Meet Missy, Your Child's Breath'n Easy Nurse

Missy has been a registered nurse with Heritage Valley Health System for nearly 14 years. Her nursing career began on the Progressive Care Unit at Heritage Valley Sewickley, where she primarily cared for cardiac patients. After delivering twins in 2014, Missy decided that she wanted to be a labor and delivery nurse and spent the next six years of her career on the Maternal Child Health unit. Missy states that “It is truly a joy to be a part of every patient’s care.” 

Missy’s most recent transition was to Population Health/Community Health Services. Her key responsibilities are to the community, assisting in education and facilitating care between patients and offices. As part of her responsibility, she is the Breath ‘n Easy Program Coordinator. Missy looks forward to assisting you and your child with all of your pediatric asthma needs!

The Center Civic Women’s Club is a group of dedicated women who support Beaver County women and girls in a variety of ways. For nearly 25 years, the CCWC has donated funds to the Heritage Valley Health System Foundation to support and encourage Beaver County breast cancer survivors. The fund covers the cost of prosthetics, bras, wigs and accessories from pre-approved vendors. To date, the CCWC has donated $400,000 to help more than 1,600 breast cancer survivors.

“This fund is such an important support for women coping with a cancer diagnosis and the change in body appearance that comes with surgery and treatments needed for survival,” said Linda Homyk, MSN, RN, Vice President Patient Care Services and Chief Nursing Officer. “Their support helps to improve self-esteem, restore dignity and give hope in an otherwise uncertain period of life.” 

For more information, patients should contact their oncologist’s office or the Heritage Valley Health System Foundation at 412-749-7966.

Are you looking for a new vegetable dish for the holidays? This is one of our Chef’s favorites!

1 Tbsp. Brown Sugar

1 tsp. Crushed Red Pepper

4 Thick Cut Strips of Bacon

2 Tbsp. Butter

1 Pound of Brussel Sprouts, Trimmed & Halved

Salt & Pepper to Taste

Lay bacon on a sheet tray; sprinkle with brown sugar & crushed red pepper. Bake at 350 degrees for 10 minutes or until crisp. Cool & set aside.

Bring 2 quarts water to a boil; add Brussel sprouts. Blanch 3-4 minutes until vibrant green. Drain & cool in cold water.

In a sauté pan on medium heat, add butter & Brussel sprouts. Sautee until golden brown. Season with salt & pepper.

Put in serving bowl & crumble candied bacon on top.

Click here for information on the Heritage Valley Flu & Covid Vaccine Clinics, held at our Robinson Township and Center Township Medical Neighborhoods.