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Researchers at Renown Seek Convalescent Plasma Study Participants
Physician researchers seek to understand how the immune system responds to COVID-19 and create a healthier Nevada. During the early stages of the pandemic, convalescent plasma was considered the only viable treatment option available for patients with COVID-19. Convalescent plasma is the component of the blood from recovered patients that may contain COVID-19 antibodies that help fight the infection. The National Institutes of Health has since developed treatment guidelines for COVID-19 based on clinical trial data and many studies are still underway worldwide assessing various additional treatment options. Convalescent plasma was in high demand but difficult to locate for COVID-19 patients in the northern Nevada area. A 24-year-old nursing assistant, Austin Meegan, was hospitalized and spent weeks staving off kidney and lung failure before learning he was eligible for an experimental blood transfusion that showed promise in treating COVID-19. Doctors estimated Meegan had only about a 3% chance of tracking down a donor to match his rare blood type. A COVID-19 survivor, Thomas Gibson, a Texas resident with the same blood type, traveled to Reno to donate his viral antibodies and a convalescent plasma donation credited with helping to save Meegan’s life. Physician clinical researchers and scientists at Renown and the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine (UNR Med) knew they needed to create better options for patients and physicians. Clinical researchers developed a study to help other patients like Austin, and pleaded for donations from recovered COVID-19 patients to donate their convalescent plasma. The researcher teams looked to understand how the body’s immune system responds to the virus over time, to aid them in developing new treatments for COVID-19. “The world’s capacity to get through the COVID crisis will depend on four things — science, technology, innovation and partnerships, says Tony Slonim, MD, DrPH, President and CEO of Renown Health. “Taking lab bench discoveries to the bedside of patients in an efficacious and timely manner is not easy, but with UNR Med and our partners, we are making great strides in advancing clinical research which has the power to save lives and to create a healthier Nevada.” “It’s tremendously promising to partner on clinical research that will not only help us better understand the disease, but help inform treatment for those combatting COVID-19 that has had such a devastating impact on Nevadans, our nation and the world,” says UNR Med Dean Thomas L. Schwenk, MD. Renown, UNR Med and other area health care partners collaborated with Vitalant to collect plasma from recovered donors for a study on the treatment's efficacy. Eligible donors are at least 18 years old, weigh more than 110 pounds and are healthy. Donors had fully recovered from a confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19. Project coordinators at the Renown Research Office were overwhelmed by the community’s support and plasma blood donations. Additional partnerships with the Washoe County Health District, the State of Nevada and the Governor’s office, Saint Mary’s Medical Center, Northern Nevada Medical Center, Carson Tahoe Health and the VA Sierra Nevada Health Care System, along with many area health care providers helped the team meet their goals of enrolling 120 eligible participants in the study. “Our success in this study rests heavily on the support of our great community, as well as the innovation and collaboration demonstrated by Renown and UNR Med,” said Sara Healy, MD, MPH, principal investigator of the study and a pediatric infectious disease physician at Renown Children’s Hospital and UNR Med. “We are proud to be at the forefront of conducting essential research during such a pivotal time in history, and look forward to our continued partnership as we continue this important work.” “The control of COVID-19 in our communities relies on testing. The study that is being launched to develop a sensitive, specific and easier way to collect specimens (blood) is advancing the field and brings promise towards getting to our common goal of having the right diagnostic test for the right clinical situation at the right time,” says Mark Riddle, MD, DrPH, FISTM, associate investigator of the study and associate dean for clinical research and professor at UNR Med's Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Research. The research team is now asking area residents to participate in a study to analyze the efficacy of two COVID-19 tests. Participants will undergo two blood tests: one being a finger stick to provide results for a rapid test, and the other is a traditional venipuncture draw confirming the presence or absence of COVID-19 antibodies. This study is a collaboration with InBios International, Inc., a leading biotechnology company based in Seattle. Researchers are seeking: Individuals who have confirmed positive for COVID-19 and who have recently recovered from the virus. Study participants must be within 7-28 days from the onset of their symptoms. Individuals who have recently tested negative for COVID-19 and have never tested positive. Those who are interested in participating in the study may contact project coordinators at the Renown Research Office at (775) 982-3646, or via e-mail at covidplasmascreening@renown.org, 7:30 A.M. – 5:00 P.M., Monday through Friday. Individuals aged 18-75 in general good health are encouraged to consider participating in this ongoing study. There is no cost to participate in this study and participation is voluntary. An individual’s decision to participate will not affect their current or future relations with their health care provider(s), health district, or the community. Those who decide to participate are free to withdraw at any time. “Time is of the essence with COVID. If we can get test results to people and their clinicians in a more timely way, we can make a faster diagnosis of a patient's condition, says Christopher M. Kozlowski, MD, MHA, Renown's institutional research officer and Medical Director/VP of Renown Institute for Heart & Vascular Health. “As we refine the accuracy of our testing; we are applying sensitivity and specificity testing for true negative and true positive results. This provides people with more timely and accurate results and better quality care.” About Renown Health Renown Health is a locally governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving northern Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. Renown is one of the region’s largest private employers with a workforce of more than 7,000. It comprises three acute care hospitals, a rehabilitation hospital, the area’s most comprehensive medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest and only locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown has a long tradition and commitment to improve the care and the health of our community. About the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine The University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine (UNR Med), Nevada’s first medical school, is a community-based, research-intensive medical school with a statewide vision for a healthy Nevada. Established in 1969, UNR Med is improving the health and well-being of all Nevadans and their communities through excellence in student education, postgraduate training and clinical care, research with local, national and global impact and a culture of diversity and inclusion. For more information, visit med.unr.edu.
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Healthy Aging 5 Tips to Improve Happiness and Quality of Life
There are a few simple ways to encourage healthy aging that can translate to an improved quality of life. Here are some expert tips. What does healthy aging mean to you? If you’re like most people, you’re looking forward to removing the negative from your life — negative energy, thoughts, people and activities that don’t contribute to your best life. And while that’s a noble goal, too often we forget about ways to strengthen the positive parts of our lives. Expert Herbert “Buddy” Coard III, Ed.D, psychologist with Renown Behavioral Health, provides us with five positive behaviors to focus on to improve happiness and life satisfaction. Healthy Aging in 5 Easy Steps: 1. Connect – Make connections with friends, family, colleagues and neighbors. When you build strong connections, they can help enrich your life with new experiences and opportunities. Besides, having a support system to call upon when you need a favor is valuable as you age. 2. Be Active – Make time to get moving and work those muscles. Being active can include walking, practicing yoga, playing a game of pickleball or dancing. Exercise makes you feel good and keeps you health. Pick a physical activity that you enjoy, and don’t make excuses. Not only will being active help you build stronger muscles, it also helps you build strong connections with others. If you need a workout buddy, Meetup is a great resource to find like-minded people that share common exercise goals. 3. Take Notice – Be mindful and become more curious. Like a child, see the wonder and beauty of the world. Notice the things around you — the weather, the landscape, the mood and feelings of the people around you. By taking notice, it’s easier to learn to appreciate the things that matter. 4. Keep Learning – We never stop learning. Keep trying something new — a new course you’ve always wanted to try or a more challenging task someone has solicited for your help. Challenges keep us on our toes and increase our confidence and excitement in our day. OLLI (Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of Nevada, Reno), brings diverse educational and social opportunities to active older adult learners (50+). EPIC (Educational Programs Inspiring the Community), offers a divers curriculum ranging from art classes to Accelerated training certificate courses. 5. Give – Be generous with your time, your knowledge and your talents by giving to friends, family and even strangers. Some easy ways to give is to show thankfulness, smile at people and volunteer. Sharing of yourself to a wider audience gives you a greater reward than just doing things for yourself. Nevada Volunteers Volunteer at Renown Health Practice these five tips to improve happiness and quality of life at any age.
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6 Getaways That Will Make You a Happy Camper
Some people drive for hundreds of miles just to pitch a tent in what we're fortunate enough to call our backyard. From alpine hiking trails and miles of remote forest to desert lakes and spectacular night skies, there's no better way to unwind and explore the outdoors than camping. If you've been daydreaming of hiking trails and swimming holes or looking for a tranquil and adventurous family vacation, it's time to clear your schedule, pack up the car and venture into the Great Outdoors. We've got six fun and beautiful camping getaways you need to experience this summer that will leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. And best of all, they're just a short drive away. Emerald Bay State Park South Lake Tahoe, Calif. Highway 89 Summer Boat-In Camping: Available by reservation. Accessible by boat or foot. Cost: $35 per night Dogs? Allowed in campground on a 6 foot leash. They cannot be on trails or roads into Emerald Bay or on the beach. Information/Reservations: 530-525-7232 or www.reserveamerica.com To say this camping location is stunning is an understatement. If you're seeking a view from your campsite of blue lake waters, thick forest and jutting rocks, than this is the spot for you. This campsite is located on the north side of Emerald Bay, at old Emerald Bay Resort, and offers hiking and walking trails and easy access to Lake Tahoe. There are also large rocks you can jump from into the lake. Davis Creek Regional Park West Side of Washoe Valley US 395 South Cost: $20, cash only Dogs? Yes. $1 per night fee per pet and they must be leashed. Information/Reservations: (775) 823-6501 or www.washoecounty.us/parks Located in the foothills of the Carson Range 20 miles south of Reno, Davis Creek campground offers over 60 overnight sites along with equestrian trailheads that provide access to the Toiyabe National Forest. The campsite is well-known for outstanding views of Washoe Valley and Slide Mountain and includes picnic areas, a small pond and nature trails. Showers are also available. Donner Memorial State Park Truckee, Calif. 12593 Donner Pass Road Cost: $35 per night Dogs? Contact for information. Information/Reservations: (530) 582-7892 or www.parks.ca.gov If you're looking for a little more to your camping adventure than what nature has to offer, Donner Memorial State Park may be the ideal campground for you. The park includes the Emigrant Trail Museum, with historical and regional exhibits including the Donner Party tragedy during the severe winter of 1846, as well as hiking trails, Donner Lake swimming and picnic areas. Fallen Leaf Campground South Lake Tahoe, Calif. 2165 Fallen Leaf Road Cost: $33 to $84/day Dogs? Allowed at tent and RV sites (a maximum of two pets per site); prohibited on beaches. Information/Reservations: (530) 544-0426 Nestled among pine and aspen trees and wildflower meadows, Fallen Leaf offers campers the best of both worlds: mountain landscapes and lake recreation. Located less than a mile away from the south shore of Lake Tahoe, the campground features more than 200 camping sites including tent, RV and several yurt rentals. There are many shady campsites for campers to choose from, as well as food lockers, toilets, showers and a general store. The lake is only a short walk from the sites and features views of Cathedral Peak (8,200 feet) and Mount Tallac (9,738 feet) and there are several trails for hikers. Pyramid Lake Marina & Beach Camping Pyramid Lake Pyramid Lake Store, 29555 Pyramid Lake Road Cost: $9 per day Dogs? Allowed without restrictions. Information/Reservations: 775-476-0555 or www.pyramidlake.us The largest natural lake in Nevada, just 40 miles from Reno, is located between the Virginia and Lake Mountains on Paiute Indian land -- the Pyramid Lake Reservation. It's an ideal locale for boating and fishing and for those who are looking for remote beach camping and easy access to swimming. There are multiple camping spots around the lake -- including an RV park and designated and open camping -- but campers must obtain a tribal camping permit prior to settling in. Note: This is a desert lake and therefore, has limited shade. Campers should plan accordingly with shade sails and pop up shade tents. Camp Richardson Resort South Lake Tahoe, Calif. 1900 Jameson Beach Road Cost: Contact for specifics. Dogs? No. Information/Reservations: 800-544-1801, reservations@camprichardson.com Whether you're seeking the solace of a shaded forest or craving lazy beach days, Camp Richardson offers a wide variety of camping and lodging needs. Located on the south shore of Lake Tahoe, Camp Richardson features over 30 cabins, 26 lodge hotel rooms, a beachside inn, duplex and house, as well as 200 tent camping sites and 100 RV sites. The resort campground offers year-round camping and a wide variety of services, including a marina, sports center, restaurant and a store.
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5Nov
Class fee includes partner. All women have different postpartum and recovery experiences after giving birth. This 2-hour class helps prepare mom and partner on what to expect after birth and the weeks to follow, and is offered every other month and is open to mothers and their partners. A few topics discussed in this class are: Postpartum care in the hospital Changes after birth Caring for yourself during postpartum The difference between postpartum blues and postpartum depression Mother’s warning signs Adjustments once you get home The new father or partner If this class is sold out and you need to take a class please email Chris.Marlo@Renown.org or leave a message at 775-982-4352.
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9Jul
Class fee includes partner. All women have different postpartum and recovery experiences after giving birth. This 2-hour class helps prepare mom and partner on what to expect after birth and the weeks to follow, and is offered every other month and is open to mothers and their partners. A few topics discussed in this class are: Postpartum care in the hospital Changes after birth Caring for yourself during postpartum The difference between postpartum blues and postpartum depression Mother’s warning signs Adjustments once you get home The new father or partner If this class is sold out and you need to take a class please email Chris.Marlo@Renown.org or leave a message at 775-982-4352.
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10Dec
Class fee includes partner. All women have different postpartum and recovery experiences after giving birth. This 2-hour class helps prepare mom and partner on what to expect after birth and the weeks to follow, and is offered every other month and is open to mothers and their partners. A few topics discussed in this class are: Postpartum care in the hospital Changes after birth Caring for yourself during postpartum The difference between postpartum blues and postpartum depression Mother’s warning signs Adjustments once you get home The new father or partner If this class is sold out and you need to take a class please email Chris.Marlo@Renown.org or leave a message at 775-982-4352.
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10Sep
Class fee includes partner. All women have different postpartum and recovery experiences after giving birth. This 2-hour class helps prepare mom and partner on what to expect after birth and the weeks to follow, and is offered every other month and is open to mothers and their partners. A few topics discussed in this class are: Postpartum care in the hospital Changes after birth Caring for yourself during postpartum The difference between postpartum blues and postpartum depression Mother’s warning signs Adjustments once you get home The new father or partner If this class is sold out and you need to take a class please email Chris.Marlo@Renown.org or leave a message at 775-982-4352.
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6Aug
Class fee includes partner. All women have different postpartum and recovery experiences after giving birth. This 2-hour class helps prepare mom and partner on what to expect after birth and the weeks to follow, and is offered every other month and is open to mothers and their partners. A few topics discussed in this class are: Postpartum care in the hospital Changes after birth Caring for yourself during postpartum The difference between postpartum blues and postpartum depression Mother’s warning signs Adjustments once you get home The new father or partner If this class is sold out and you need to take a class please email Chris.Marlo@Renown.org or leave a message at 775-982-4352.
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4Jun
Class fee includes partner. All women have different postpartum and recovery experiences after giving birth. This 2-hour class helps prepare mom and partner on what to expect after birth and the weeks to follow, and is offered every other month and is open to mothers and their partners. A few topics discussed in this class are: Postpartum care in the hospital Changes after birth Caring for yourself during postpartum The difference between postpartum blues and postpartum depression Mother’s warning signs Adjustments once you get home The new father or partner If this class is sold out and you need to take a class please email Chris.Marlo@Renown.org or leave a message at 775-982-4352.
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8Oct
Class fee includes partner. All women have different postpartum and recovery experiences after giving birth. This 2-hour class helps prepare mom and partner on what to expect after birth and the weeks to follow, and is offered every other month and is open to mothers and their partners. A few topics discussed in this class are: Postpartum care in the hospital Changes after birth Caring for yourself during postpartum The difference between postpartum blues and postpartum depression Mother’s warning signs Adjustments once you get home The new father or partner If this class is sold out and you need to take a class please email Chris.Marlo@Renown.org or leave a message at 775-982-4352.
Read More About Preparing for Postpartum Virtual Class
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