Health, Winter 2026 by Cleveland Jewish Publication Company

A

Health

TClearing up confusion, concern over childhood vaccines

DR. YONIT ESTRIN

he recent decision by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to change the childhood vaccine schedule has created confusion and concern. As a pediatrician, I hope to shed some light.

First, know that the change was a policy decision and has nothing to do with the safety or e ectiveness of the vaccines.

I chose a career in pediatrics, not only because of my love for the pediatric population, but for the pathologies and the great potential of children. I started my pediatrics internship in 2012 and so admired my attending physicians, who would often share “horror stories” about the days before children were safe from vaccine-preventable diseases. ey vividly told us of the stench of rotavirus and babies with epiglottitis, a lifethreatening in ammation of the windpipe caused by Haemophilus in uenzae type b. Chicken pox was commonplace. But, thanks to vaccines, I saw none of these diseases during my three years of residency.

When winter came, the hospital would ll with children with respiratory syncytial virus, bronchiolitis and u. Children, both high risk and without any risk at all, would create a revolving door. Many had great outcomes, and we would say goodbye to them soon. Some, even the “healthy” kids, did not and that was a big lesson I learned early as a pediatrician.

In 2023, a vaccine for RSV that had previously only been available to highrisk neonates became available for all infants and the rates of those very sick or hospitalized infants with RSV began to drop. What an amazing thing to see in my time. At the same time, we also started to see more measles and pertussis outbreaks, and even several cases of chicken pox.

e Trump administration mandated the CDC to re-evaluate the childhood vaccine schedule in an e ort to increase trust in the health care system. On Jan. 5, they released a new schedule, reducing the

DISCLAIMER

17 childhood vaccines to 11 and placed vaccine recommendations into three groups: all children, high-risk groups and populations and shared clinical decision making. ese changes are in con ict to the recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatrics and have left parents with questions that I hope to answer here.

Pediatricians continue to rely on the vaccine schedule recommended by the AAP. While the CDC has changed its recommendations, all recommended vaccines remain available in pediatric o ces. According to Dr. Mehmet Oz, administrator for Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, all vaccines currently recommended by the CDC will remain covered by both Medicaid and private insurances. Vaccines can be spaced, however, research shows that families who follow non-standard schedules are less likely to complete the full vaccination series by the end of childhood.

Parents and their providers want the same thing – the best possible outcomes for children. is is best achieved by having open conversations with your provider. Parents should always feel comfortable asking questions at their children’s appointments so they can feel informed and comfortable with the choices they are making regarding vaccines. “Shared clinical decision making” may be a new phrase in the vaccine guidelines but it’s something pediatricians have been doing all along.

Dr. Yonit Estrin writes about pediatric medicine for the Cleveland Jewish News. She is a pediatrician at Akron Children’s Urgent Care Center in Beachwood.

The Cleveland Jewish News does not make endorsements of political candidates and/or political or other ballot issues on any level. Letters, commentaries, opinions, advertisements and online posts appearing in the Cleveland Jewish News, on cjn.org or our social media pages reflect the views and thoughts of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Cleveland Jewish Publication Company, its board, officers or staff or any other organization unless explicitly stated.

DOWNLOAD THE CLEVELAND JEWISH NEWS APP NOW - AVAILABLE ON IOS AND ANDROID

SOURCE: Akron Children’s

A box of real food

DR. ROXANNE SUKOL

It’s a new year, and I’m still talking about the massive difference between real food and manufactured calories. Real food nourishes; manufactured calories entertain. Manufactured calories cause breast and colon cancer, diabetes, obesity, arthritis, strokes and heart attacks. For starters.

Last fall, my daughter and I attended a Jewish Federation of Cleveland event and ran into an old friend. Imagine her disbelief and joy on learning that my daughter is now a mother! She had one question: Was I was more lenient, food-wise, with my grandchildren? My daughter’s eyes met mine. If anything, it’s the opposite. We have much greater clarity about the di erences between food and manufactured calories than twenty years ago. And more time. My husband bakes bread for our grandchildren, and mashes the applesauce we eat at Chanukah. Yes, our grandchildren eat cookies, apple crisps, homemade fruit rollups, brownies, banana chocolate chip cake. Our chickens lay the eggs we bake

with. e di erence is that we make the treats ourselves, from real ingredients. Unlike my husband and son’s ultra processed cupcake experiment, going on 13 years now, our treats must be eaten in a few days or they begin to smell o . We share those with the chickens.

How to tell the di erence between real food and manufactured calories? Imagine a huge box labeled “real food.” ousands of foodstu s inside t into eleven categories: fruits, vegetables, beans, whole grains, eggs, dairy, nuts, seeds, meats, sh and poultry. at’s real food. Everything else is manufactured calories, including non-dairy creamers, arti cial sweeteners, margarine, candy, soda, vegetable shortening, frooty

breakfast cereals. Not fruit. ese items are made with high-fructose corn syrup, polysorbate 80, carrageenan and synthetic food dyes. ey do not nourish you, and you won’t nd them in the average home kitchen.

Big food (i.e., the ultra-processed industry) capitalizes on the fact that you know you should eat more fruits and vegetables. So it creates products like vegetable oil, or vegetable shortening. ese are not vegetables.

Big fake food also knows that humans have a biological imperative to eat color. is is why candy, most breakfast cereals and bright blue icing are so appealing. ey are manufactured to be that way.

Being well-nourished means lling your plate with carrots, oranges, blueberries, rainbow chard, purple cabbage, radishes, apples or spinach. Each color is a di erent phytonutrient building block for good

health. You might sprain a tendon, or scratch a cornea. You might catch a virus that knocks you out for days, or longer. But if your immune system mounts a strong preemptive defense, you may not feel a thing.

I would not suggest denying yourself a brownie or a slice of apple pie, especially if that’s what makes your life worth living. But when you eat sweet breakfast cereal, chips and lunch meat, and fast food for dinner, all you ate all day was entertainment.

Here are my two seconds of nutritional advice: eat more vegetables, fruits and legumes. We are drawn to color because colorful food nourishes us. e box of real food is lled with them.

Dr. Roxanne Sukol writes about adult health, preventative medicine and wellness for the Cleveland Jewish News. She is a retired internal medicine physician from Cleveland Clinic.

Achieving weight loss, the good, old-fashioned way

DR. SETH LEVINE

sethdlevinedo@gmail.com

Ooo oo ozempic. That’s really all that needs to be said. In 2026, each and every one of you know what this medication is and have some general knowledge of why so many people are on it. We’ve seen the US Weekly gossip, and seemingly a new celebrity each week is exploring the world of ozempic.

I’ll admit, I have a few pounds to lose myself after the holidays, and I’m sure the idea of a magic injection to help at least give us a boost to our goal of weight loss has even crossed your mind too, as it did mine, even as a physician.

Let me preface by saying, the good oldfashioned way to achieving weight loss is always the best way. ere are so many diet regimens out there. Truthfully, coming from a provider that likes things spelled out plain, simple, and to the point, the keys to weight loss are:

• Eat less (less calories, smaller portions)

• Exercise more (burn calories)

• Lower simple carbohydrates (such as sugar, candy, pop, white bread, white rice or pasta)

• Increase complex carbohydrates, if you’re going to have them (such as wheat bread, brown rice)

• Lower fat (think Mediterranean diet)

• Intermittent fasting can also be bene cial to mix in (no more than six to eight hour periods per day).

Now, say this isn’t working, then we cross into the realm of Ooo oo ozempic. Ozempic is a weight loss injectable medicine taken once a week (into the fat of the lower abdomen (yes, we all have some). It is a GLP-1 agonist that is a hormone that binds to the GLP-1 receptor within the beta cells of your pancreas.

e result of this action is an increase of insulin release (insulin lowers blood sugar), de-creases glucagon secretion (which normally causes increased sugar), and activates incretin which is a hormone that slows stomach/gastric motility thus making you feel full faster and you then eat less. If the sugar is maintained at a steadier state due to the aforementioned actions, you

have less cravings. e GLP-1 actions also directly suppress the hypothalamus of your brain to decrease appetite.

So, who can take it or be a candidate for such a wonder drug? Any patient that is obese (BMI, which is a measurement that calculates your height to weight ratio; 30 or over is obese), or an overweight patient (BMI 27 or higher with certain comorbidities, such as high blood pressure, and lastly the prime and most obvious indication would be for diabetic patients (hemoglobin a1c greater than or equal to 6.5%).

Even if you meet those criteria, there are certain immediate exclusion criteria. Most notably, you cannot take Ozempic if you’ve ever had pancreatitis or you or family have history or me-dullary thyroid type cancer or MEN II syndrome that carries genetic predisposition to medullary thyroid cancer.

Most patients I’ve seen do well with the medicine. Truthfully, the biggest barriers are GI symptoms (constipation/nausea). Even more so than that is the barrier of insurance just not wanting to cover the medicine, and then it’s too expensive for the patient unfortunately. Hopefully that will change. ere is even a pill form GLP-1, branded with the name of Wegovy, so I am sure this

will pick up steam. Who doesn’t want a pill rather than a poke?

Lastly, how much should a patient lose or expect to lose on these medicines and are they tolerated well? About 15% of your starting body weight is a general goal. But yeah, will you gain it all back when you stop? Hopefully not. If you reroute to step one and take diet and exercise more seriously. I also have many diabetic patients that are obese that remain on it long term. You titrate a medicine such as Ozempic (semaglutide) monthly as tolerated.

Dr. Seth Levine writes about internal medicine for the Cleveland Jewish News. He is an internal medicine physician at the UH Internal Medicine Center in Independence.

DISCLAIMER

JWhen someone dies: What children need to hear

DR. LAURA SHEFNER lshefner@metrohealth.org

ust recently, we had a difficult conversation with our 2 and 4 year olds. My husband’s grandfather passed away peacefully just months shy of his 99th birthday, and we had to figure out the best way to break the news to our kids about their “Pop.”

is brought up several tough but important questions: Do we take the kids to the funeral or just the shiva? How do we explain their great-grandfather’s death so they understand but don’t get too frightened? For families dealing with death of a loved one, this can be a daunting discussion at a time when people are already stressed and emotional.

When talking to kids of any age, it’s important to explain a few basic facts. If they are not already familiar with the concept of death, take the time to explain that loved one is gone and is not coming back. Also explain that they are not su ering, and that once someone passes away, they can no longer feel physical or emotional pain. Explain that death is universal – every living thing (people, plants, animals) will eventually die, and it’s part of the natural course of life.

is idea can feel scary, especially for children, so it’s important to reassure them that you’re doing everything you can to help both you and them live long, healthy lives. Make sure they understand they are not to blame for the person’s death. at’s especially the case for older kids who may have recently acted out or argued with family and now feel guilty. e speci cs of this discussion will vary depending on the age of your children.

Babies and toddlers are generally too young to understand the concept of death, but they can still tell when grown-ups around them are upset or grieving. You may not be able to explain exactly what’s going on beyond “Mommy/daddy is feeling sad right now but still loves you,” but you can help them feel better by giving them extra positive attention and hugs and kisses.

Older toddlers and preschoolers are typically more aware of death as a concept, but they may not understand the permanency of death. Our son, for example, plays a robot game at school where the robot “dies” when it’s tagged, then comes back to life to keep playing. For these kids, explain that the person who died is gone and won’t be coming back, and that we won’t be able to see them anymore except in our memories or photos.

Many people use metaphors or vague phrases like saying someone “is in a better place” or has “gone to sleep,” but kids often don’t understand these vague ideas, which can lead to confusion or fear.

School-age kids and older generally have a better understanding of death, though they may still struggle to accept this personal loss, especially if it’s the rst time someone close to them has died. For kids this age, it may be more important to listen to their thoughts and concerns and let them take control of the discussion. Help them nd healthy ways to grieve and cope with you.

It’s up to each parent to decide whether their kids should attend funerals or other gatherings. My husband and I felt that going to the cemetery would be too scary for our young children, especially seeing the co n lowered into the ground. Instead, we are taking them to shiva to give them time to mourn and gather with family.

However, older children may feel resentful or more confused if they aren’t allowed to attend the funeral, so you may feel that’s better to do. If you do take your kids, make sure to go over what to expect beforehand and give them time to ask questions.

Whatever you do decide to do, remember that everyone reacts to death in their own way. Make sure to be supportive but also remember it’s OK to show emotions and grieve with your kids. By letting them in, you will give them a safe place to come to terms in their own time. Also remember that changes in behavior are very common with any increased stressor and could be a sign that your

child is having trouble coping. If you feel like they are struggling, you can seek a professional who can help or ask your pediatrician for resources.

Dr. Laura Shefner writes about pediatric care for the Cleveland Jewish News. She is a pediatrician at The MetroHealth System and practices in Beachwood and Parma.

DISCLAIMER

GHC Industries, Vitalchat partner on AI-driven virtual care

CASEY COUCH ccouch@cjn.org

Apatient suddenly deteriorates in the step-down unit. Nurses quickly transfer the patient to the ICU and summon the physician, who is attending to another critically ill patient.

Knowing that the doctor is completely in the dark, a virtual nurse quickly pulls up the patient’s chart on the screen, allowing the physician to assess the case and call out orders. While the bedside nurses perform their duties, the virtual nurse begins to put in the orders that the doctor called out – a display of teamwork and technology working in tandem.

While they work, the doctor voices a concern about the patient the doctor left as they were being summoned.

“Simultaneously, another patient in the ICU wasn’t doing well, and the physician who was caring for this patient was incredibly concerned,” Lauren Yanus, registered nurse, platform lead at University Hospitals Veale Healthcare Transformation Institute, told the Cleveland Jewish News. “You can’t be in two places at once, right? So, the virtual nurse was actually able to pull up that other patient at the same time, monitor vital signs and reassure the physician that the patient is doing OK.”

To be able to monitor multiple patients at once is just one of many benefits of University Hospitals Veale Healthcare Transformation Institute’s connected care team initiative – a oneto-one virtual nursing program in which real UH nurses are able to virtually enter a patient’s room via video to assist bedside staff with monitoring, admissions, discharges, patient education and urgent intervention, allowing the bedside care team to focus their time and energy on hands-on patient interactions.

The initiative, powered by Vitalchat led by GHC Industries which has offices in Cleveland, Akron, New York and Pittsburgh, is active in five UH facilities, including all 146 beds at UH Lake West Medical Center in Willoughby, making it one of the first hospitals in the nation to go live with a whole hospital virtual nursing program since its launch in July 2025.

Vitalchat, headquartered in Raleigh, N.C., and installed in 40 hospitals throughout the country, is an artificial intelligencedriven audio and video platform built on a successful initial phase that implemented technology in 135 beds across six units and five hospitals, which included UH Elyria Medical Center on the surgical floor, UH Ahuja Medical Center in the ICU, UH Lakeside main campus, UH Rainbow Babies and Children’s Hospital spanning pediatrics and UH Lake West Medical Center. Today, the number of beds has grown to 260 across all facilities.

Through the platform, live nurses are able to “call in” to chat with a patient in real time, working in tandem with the bedside team 24/7 at UH Lake West Medical Center and from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the other facilities.

The AI portion of Vitalchat’s platform performs continuous real-time analysis of video, audio and sensory data collected in the care setting to identify trends, predict risks and flag anomalies that are then turned into alerts and automated actions to support the care team.

“A nurse can do anything with the system that they can do at the bedside without laying hands on the patients,” Brian Nelson, registered nurse, program manager at UH Veale Healthcare Transformation Institute, told the CJN. “You can’t touch a patient, which means you really can’t listen, but you can still do an assessment visually and fill it all in. They’re like the ‘angels in the sky.’”

By “angels in the sky,” Nelson said that a patient simply needs to look up to their television screen to see their virtual nurse. Here’s how it works: a UH nurse, working from a central command center at UH Management Services Center in Shaker Heights, will virtually “knock” on a patient’s door, asking if they can “come in.”

If the patient gives consent, the camera in the hospital room will turn on and turn around to face the patient. Simultaneously, the nurse will take over the television screen in the patient’s room, so that both parties can see each other.

While in the room, the nurse will check vitals, do a visual assessment, talk to the patient about their needs and alert the bedside care team of any changes or patient needs that should be addressed in person.

For patients who need continuous monitoring, a virtual nurse can watch multiple patients at once on their screens, freeing up a bedside nurse from having to sit with a patient when they could be used elsewhere.

“We are not here to spy on a patient by any means,” Nelson said, “but for the patients that are at high risk for falls or the nurse is just concerned for them, the patient is then notified saying ‘Hey, we’re just going to have you pulled up and keep an extra eye on you.’”

This use factor helps to directly address the nursing shortage that is being seen in Northeast Ohio and throughout the country, Nelson said – something that his team noticed in May 2024, which sparked their drive to workshop and implement this program.

Matt Soble, principal and chief communications officer at GHC Industries through Green Harvest Capital, told the CJN that the partnership between these entities began when Green Harvest Capital CEO and co-founder B Patel purchased ReSources, a Northeast Ohio IT partner for hospitals. Through their work at UH, Re-Sources became the exclusive hardware partner for Vitalchat, resulting in a $6 million investment in the platform in February 2025.

In phase one of implementation at UH, the team sought out nurses to volunteer to work virtually. According to Yanus, this ensured that the bedside team already knew and trusted the staff member, adding that their role with Vitalchat is to “help nurses, not replace them.”

“We made sure that the nurses who volunteered for this role were seasoned nurses, had great communication skills, were seen as a leader around the unit and were someone that was trusted,” Yanus said. “I really do think that helped with the adoption of the program overall.”

According to Yanus, the response from staff has been so good that, “Lake West says we can never, ever take it away, because they wouldn’t even know how to function anymore.”

Early outcomes since Vitalchat’s implementation have included higher patient experience and caregiver engagement scores than comparable units, more efficient support for critical workflows such as admissions, discharges, pain assessments and fall prevention, and initiation of three clinical studies, including an FDA-supported trial evaluating AI to detect fall risks, according to a Sept. 15, 2025, news release.

According to Nelson, UH has seen a 55% reduction in falls over 18-months, largely due to virtual nurses who are able to visually identify risks – such as a piece of furniture moved by a visitor that was not put back – and inform bedside providers of those risks. Additionally, by preemptively asking patients if they need to use a restroom facility, virtual nurses are able to send a bedside provider to a room to assist a patient, who may be a fall risk, before they attempt to do it by themselves.

Moving forward, the UH team hopes to continue to expand the program with more 24/7 operations and grow into additional departments and beds.

As for the future of Vitalchat, Soble compared the platform to the iPhone and the App Store, in which he said there are an “infinite number” of apps that can potentially run on the backbone of Vitalchat.

The platform will also be used to support rural hospitals as part of President Donald Trump’s Rural Health Transformation Program under the Big Beautiful Bill. Partnering with some national hospitals, Vitalchat will be used as a platform for growth and hospital support within the RHT Alliance.

“In the future, we are extremely excited about Vitalchat as a platform for growth in the hospitals,” Soble said. “We see it as the backbone to so many other opportunities to integrate other bestin-class capabilities on top of Vitalchat.”

Nelson Soble Yanus

Members of the virtual nurse team work out of the command center, located on the second floor of UH Management Services Center located in Shaker Heights. | Submitted photo

Dental, vision, medical clinic Feb. 28-March 1

Remote Area Medical will o er a free clinic for dental, vision and medical care from Feb. 28 to March 1 at Cleveland Early College High School-John Hay Academic Campus at 2075 Stokes Blvd. in Cleveland’s University Circle neighborhood.

Services o ered will include general medical exams, women’s health exams, dental cleanings, extractions, eye exams and prescription glasses made on-site.

Insurance or identi cation is not required and the clinic is open to anyone in need and Remote Area Medical encourages anyone who could bene t from these services to attend and receive the care they deserve, according to a news release.

e parking lot will open no later than midnight on Feb. 27. and will remain open for the duration of the clinic. Once in the parking lot, additional information regarding clinic-opening processes and next steps will be provided.

Clinic doors will open at 6 a.m. with services o ered on a rst-come, rst-served basis until capacity is reached. Sunday clinic operations will be an abbreviated day and patients are advised to arrive as early as possible. Clinic closing times will vary based on each service area’s daily capacity.

For more information on the upcoming RAM Clinic, including how to volunteer or donate, visit ramusa.org or call 865-579-1530.

AARP Community Challenge seeks applications

AARP Ohio is accepting applications from local eligible nonpro t organizations and governments for the 2026 AARP Community Challenge through 5 p.m. March 4.

e Community Challenge is open to eligible 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4) and 501(c)(6) nonpro t organizations and government entities. Other types of organizations will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Grants range from several hundred dollars for smaller, short-term activities to tens of thousands for larger projects.

AARP is accepting applications across three di erent grant opportunities as part of its nationwide Livable Communities initiative, which supports projects that make areas a great place to live for all residents, especially those 50 and older. Options include agship grants, which

support projects that improve public places, transportation, housing, digital connections and disaster resilience, capacity-building microgrants, which are paired with expert support, webinars, and cohort learning for projects to improve walkability and bikeability; implement safe, accessible home modi cations; and disaster preparedness training, and demonstration grants, which fund projects that encourages replication of exemplary local e ort with this year’s focus on improving pedestrian safety.

Projects must be completed by Dec. 15. Interested organizations are encouraged to attend AARP Ohio’s virtual information session at 1 p.m. Jan. 20. To register, visit shorturl.at/AyVdO. To submit an application and view past grantees, visit AARP.org/ CommunityChallenge.

Akron Children’s ranks among best

children’s hospitals

Akron Children’s ranked nationally in ve pediatric specialties in U.S. News & World Report’s annual ranking of best children’s hospitals for 2025-26.

Akron Children’s ranked in the top 50 in the pediatric and adolescent behavioral health category; 43rd in the pediatric neurology and neurosurgery category; 16th in the pediatric orthopedics category; 40th in the pediatric pulmonology and lung surgery category and 46th in the pediatric urology category. It improved in

MedWish Medworks: A Holistic Lifeline for Cleveland’s Health

Cleveland resident Veronica was unemployed, had no insurance, and needed glasses. She found out about MedWish Medworks free eye clinic and decided to attend. During her examination, the medical staff found a blood spot near her retina. Without treatment from the volunteer medical professionals, this condition could have led to blindness.

Veronica is just one of nearly 50,000 people in Northeast Ohio MedWish Medworks serves annually through our local programming. At the core of our mission is access, ensuring all individuals can obtain high-quality healthcare and essential resources. We break down barriers by offering free, accessible care and trustworthy connection to vital health resources.

MedWish Medworks serves as a safety net to community safety nets, providing 100% free, high-quality, volunteer-driven healthcare to address gaps in the traditional healthcare system. As individuals lose health insurance, or struggle to pay increasing healthcare costs, many rely on alternative resources, such as our free clinics and free supply distribution.

We hold free clinics throughout the year (6-8 annually), at locations chosen specifically to be accessible to neighborhoods with the highest needs, i.e. high rates of poverty, un/ underinsured, and other social determinants of health. To maximize access and impact, whenever possible we include a wide range of medical and dental specialties. Individuals obtain essential care and resources with no cost, no identification requirements, and no insurance needed. At last November’s 2-Day Dental + Medical Clinic, more than 1,100 patients received services, including dental extractions, cleanings, partials, eye exams, mammograms, hearing tests…and even same-day dentures!

Prior to leaving the clinic, each patient completes a check-out process with our navigation team, where they can share additional needs or challenges. Navigators provide direct support with Medicaid and SNAP applications, referrals to primary care providers, guidance on understanding and using insurance or Medicaid benefits, and connections to resources offered by trusted community partners. This initial encounter often marks the beginning of a lasting relationship. In the weeks following the clinic, our navigators conduct proactive follow up–prioritizing patients with urgent medical needs. They help patients establish ongoing care by connecting them to medical and dental homes, coordinating follow-up care, and helping them navigate a complex and often overwhelming healthcare system. This ensures that care continues through sustained access and support.

In addition to care, we provide medical supplies and equipment to people free of charge. Items include wheelchairs, adult diapers, walkers, CPAP machines, and nebulizers, among other items. To accomplish this, we recover usable and sterile medical supplies no longer needed from 360+ local healthcare facilities, hospitals, and medical supply companies. Additionally, more than 1,000 individuals drop off items at our warehouse yearly. We repurpose these items in our warehouse with the help of 4,000+ volunteers who sort, vet, and pack supplies for distribution. We then redistribute them to individuals, in partnership with more than 310 local social service agencies/nonprofits.

Through these activities, MedWish Medworks ensures individuals who are most at risk of losing coverage or falling through gaps in the healthcare system can still obtain the care, support, and essential equipment needed to manage their health, manage chronic conditions, and maintain stability in the face of ongoing systemic challenges.

Like many patients, Veronica has become a part of the MedWish Medworks circle of care. She brings her family to the neighborhood clinics for vaccines and help managing her high blood pressure. She also receives hygiene supplies and other self-care items for her and her husband. Veronica says, “The help I receive from MedWish Medworks keeps me moving and makes it easier for me to pay my utility bills and insurance. Their volunteers are always organized, concerned, ask what more they can do, and everyone together creates a warm neighborly atmosphere. I’m glad I live in a city that has MedWish Medworks.”

the pediatric orthopedics category, and added the rankings in the pediatric pulmonology and lung surgery and pediatric urology categories.

“Our caregivers and sta come to work each day focused on one goal – helping kids heal and return to the activities that bring them joy,” Chris Gessner, president and CEO of Akron Children’s, said in a news release. “ is honor from U.S. News & World Report speaks to their remarkable skill, empathy and commitment to our patients and their families.”

MedWish Medworks provides a holistic experience for the people we serve, ensuring they have what they need to live a healthy life. This would not be possible without support from our community, and we would love you to get involved. Volunteer to sort at the warehouse. Sponsor a clinic patient. Host a hygiene supply drive, our most requested items. Donate your gently used medical supplies. Visit www.medwish.org to learn more.

MedWish Medworks 1625 E. 31st Street Cleveland, Ohio 44114 216.692.1685

www.medwish.org

King David residents donate $2K to Greater Cleveland Food Bank

Residents of King David Independent Living in Beachwood held a community rummage sale to bene t the Greater Cleveland Food Bank, in which $2,000 was raised to enable the provision of 6,000 meals, according to a news release.

e event was coordinated by volunteers led by Beverly Peterson and James Fazekas. Additional volunteers who helped with pricing and sales were May Britt Goldblum, Goldalee Latter, Gayl Edelstein and Marcia Grossman. e $2,000 check was presented to Ron Carlton, representative of the Greater Cleveland Food Bank, last month by Harriet Gould, president of King David

Independent Living.

Lisa Sands, senior manager of corporate relations at the Greater Cleveland Food Bank, o ered her thanks to the residents and volunteers who assisted in the e ort in a letter addressed to Peterson on Jan. 7.

“Your support enables us to remain a consistent source of nutritious food and essential resources for neighbors across our six-county service area,” Sands wrote. “Many of our neighbors are one emergency away from needing our help: according to a recent nationwide report, 67% of households live paycheck to paycheck.”

According to Sands, the food bank and its partners served

over 404,000 unduplicated members in scal year 2025 –about as many as during the pandemic.

Additionally, 53.5 million pounds of food were distributed through the food bank’s network of over a thousand program partners, with a record of 53,580 individuals visiting the food bank’s community resource center.

“Together with our community, the Greater Cleveland Food Bank provides nutritious food and essential resources so our neighbors facing hunger can thrive,” she wrote. “We do this in good times and bad, and your generosity empowers us to carry out that mission.”

FDA OKs prostate cancer PSA test from Cleveland Diagnostics

The Food and Drug Administration recently approved the IsoPSA blood test, which was developed by Cleveland Diagnostics, a Cleveland Clinic Innovations portfolio company, which looks for speci c variants of the PSA protein that can be linked to higher risk of more malignant disease.

It marks an improvement over traditional PSA tests, which simply track rising total PSA levels over time. In a news release, Cleveland Clinic called it a major advancement in prostate cancer diagnostics, noting that its

greater precision could help reduce unnecessary biopsies. Cleveland Diagnostics estimates that more than 1 million men undergo prostate biopsies each year, with as many as 75% of those tests returning negative results for high-grade cancer.

e IsoPSA test was able to separate out men that were 50 years old and older that carried a lower risk, allowing them to skip the biopsy. Nearly half of the patients with an elevated risk developed clinically signi cant prostate cancer within two-and-a-half years, which illustrates a need for

more monitoring within the group.

“FDA approval of our IsoPSA kit marks a signi cant milestone in Cleveland Diagnostics’ mission to help physicians and patients detect cancer early when it is most treatable and survivable,” Arnon Chait, president and CEO of Cleveland Diagnostics, said in the release. “We remain focused on executing our commercial strategy and expanding access to IsoPSA, to the bene t of patients nationwide.”

Ponsky receives Castle Connolly

Top Doctor

title for 11th consecutive year

For the 11th consecutive year, Dr. Diana Ponsky received the Castle Connolly Top Docter title.

other nominees – It’s an honor to be in such distinguished company.”

is recognition is awarded to the top 7% of the 1 million U.S. board-certi ed physicians, 37% being women, and determined by peer-reviewed directory of doctors and hospitals, according to a news release.

“My team and I work exceedingly hard to deliver exceptional care, so earning a Top Doctor award is both a fantastic re ection of our success and a great way to drive us to outdo ourselves in the future,” Ponsky said in the release.

“I would also like to congratulate the

With over 12 years of experience in cosmetic surgery for the face, Polnsky is double board certi ed in facial plastic and head and neck surgery, with certi cates from the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology, according to the release.

In 2005, she completed her doctor of medicine, her residency in head and neck surgery, graduated from Georgetown University in Washington, D.C., and received the Roy Sessions Exemplary Chief Resident award.

For the full list of doctors recognized by Castle Connolly, visit Castleconnolly.com.

The CJN’s daily eNewsletter delivers the latest headlines to your inbox every weekday morning for FREE!

Ponsky

A Cleveland Jewish News Advertising Special Section

Boomers

Conversation can be crucial with end-of-life questions

JIMMY OSWALD joswald@cjn.org

Steven Raichilson, a senior living health care consultant who oversees Solonbased Raichilson & Associates, still remembers his mother telling his children – her grandchildren – about the more simple times she grew up in.

“She was born in 1918 and during a family meeting she said to her grandchildren, ‘I remember when a mouse was something you tried to kill,’” Raichilson said. “ at was versus a mouse on the computer. She was talking about di erent ways her childhood was so di erent from my kids’ childhood. My mother’s gone now, but my kids remember those priceless stories of her growing up in a small town in Elmira, N.Y.”

Conversation is an important piece

to helping loved ones, especially adult children, be better prepared when a parent reaches the end of their life and passes on, according to Raichilson. Topics like handling a will and how to tackle a person’s money and estate when they are gone to end-oflife wishes to family history are all crucial talking points that can lead to less stress and hardship when the inevitable occurs.

“ ere’s so many opportunities to have warm, frank discussions with your children,”

Raichilson said. “And a lot of times they’re triggered by a terminal event. But of course, if you can do those earlier, it’s wonderful. I’m all for the talks, and it’s something everybody has the opportunity to do and should do.”

One of the most important subjects that should be addressed earlier rather than later is on the administrative side, like making sure a will is in place and which attorney rm will be handling it.

“You can always talk about that well before someone’s going to have an imminent demise,” he said. “ e earlier the better. You should discuss what kind of

nancial situation the parent is in so the kids know what’s available in case there’s some nancial needs surrounding a terminal phase of illness. You should know who the parents’ attorney is, who is their nancial counselor or what their di erent bank accounts are. You should also nd answers to questions like where should a funeral take place and what kind?”

Raichilson said if a parent and their o spring have a strong relationship, family history and stories are often told over time. However, it’s never a bad idea to reinforce those tales or drive home the a ection that they have for their children.

“If someone nds out they’re going to be passing on, an expression of love and discussion about how proud you are of your children should be talked out,” he said. “Talk about how much love they have for each individual child, why they admire them and how proud they are of their accomplishments is all very important.”

A great way to help one’s children deal with the death of their parents well beyond the initial grieving phase is by documenting

and recording stories that have been told and those a rmations of love, Raichilson said.

“Why parents admire their children, what traits they have, why they’re most proud of their kids, those more emotional conversations should be taped if possible” he emphasized. “Recording the events and writing down their life story are wonderful for the kids they have and the generations of relatives they’ll have.”

Raichilson recalled having an uncle who, before passing away, wrote the story of his life in a ten-page typed document and gave it to everybody in the family. Not only did it help Raichilson be able to connect with his uncle, but also to his deceased father.

“My father never did anything like that, he was a little more emotionally detached,” he said. “But my uncle mentioned my father a lot in his story. So I found out a lot about my father. If parents can write a booklet of their life, it would be fascinating for generations to have. And it’s so important that kids have something like that.”

Raichilson

Importance of staying active throughout winter

CASEY COUCH ccouch@cjn.org

An outdoor walk, a trip to the park, the warmth of the sun –while these things are fleeting in Northeast Ohio, local experts in senior care said that there are unique ways to remain active outside of the house during the winter.

“I do not recommend walking outside when there’s snow or ice on the ground, because falls are an issue,” Rabbi Shalom Plotkin, owner of Right at Home in Beachwood, said. “However, there’s lots of ways you can continue to exercise and can stay active socially as well as physically.”

To get the blood-pumping, Plotkin said a unique type of

exercise could be walking in an indoor mall.

“You don’t have to exercise your pocket book or credit card,” he said, adding that checking out window displays can provide a nice change of scenery, in contrast to walking on a treadmill.

Another unique type of exercise is rock-climbing at Shaker Rocks in Shaker Heights, with class offerings such as “GrayPower” for ages 50-plus and “Up ENDing Parkinson’s” for those living with Parkinson’s disease, he said.

According to Barbie Jones, director of business development and marketing manager at Rent a Daughter Senior Care Services in Beachwood and Amivie in North Carolina, there is no shortage of activities in the winter as long as you’re creative. Through their concierge service model, caregivers at Rent a Daughter are able

Brigitte At Your Service is a health care company located in Cleveland, Ohio that provides premium concierge health care services to seniors and individuals of all ages with long or short term health care issues. Brigitte Schi er, with over 20 years of experience in the ﬁeld, has put together a highly qualiﬁed, experienced and dedicated sta devoted to providing top care to those who wish to age in place or supplemental care to those in a senior or other healthcare facility. Brigitte is a professional who can assess and understand the needs of each client and develop a comprehensive plan that meets the needs of both the client and family. Coverage: 4 hour minimum up to 24hours/7days a week.

to help craft personal care plans that tailor toward one’s interests and get them active, out of the house.

“During the winter months, we prioritize creativity to ensure our clients remain active and intellectually engaged when outdoor activities are not feasible,” Jones said. “The (Mandel) JCC is an excellent option for indoor exercise, and we maintain a flexible approach by tailoring plans to each individual’s specific interests.”

Plotkin also recommended using the Mandel Jewish Community Center of Cleveland in Beachwood, specifically the pool area as “indoor swimming definitely helps to support bones and joints.” But physical activity isn’t the only way to promote health in the wintertime, as brain health is equally important to Plotkin, who shared that there can be many benefits to crafting or gaming – something he witnessed at the JCC last year.

“They had collected a bunch of see through jars, and they were measuring out beans, lentils and other kinds of dry ingredients that they dropped in the jar in layers,” Plotkin said. “All you have to do is put it in a pot and it becomes a stew. It’s super hearty and full of protein and fiber. This is something that they were distributing through the local Jewish Family Service Association, the JFSA.”

Activities like this, he said, can help with fine motor skills, socialization and allows participants to help others.

Jones shared, based on her experience, that the most important thing to consider when setting activity or movementbased goals is an individual’s interests, preferences and abilities.

“Our process involves assessing physical capabilities and limitations to establish goals based on what each person hopes to achieve,” Jones said. “We also take the time to learn about personal passions and hobbies to integrate them into daily activities. For example, we often suggest visiting the art museum, which provides a wonderful environment for exercise while engaging both the mind and body through meaningful conversation.”

Additional recommendations from Plotkin and Jones included visiting a senior center, joining a bowling league or indoor golfing, attending synagogue and prayer services, playing cards and games, quilting or knitting, puzzling and cooking.

In their own way, each of these activities can help with cardio endurance, support the circulatory system, support brain health, and assist with range of motion, balance and stamina. For those who struggle with getting out of the house or active on their own, Jones said that professional help can assist in meeting physical goals.

“At Amivie, we collaborate with physical therapists and personal trainers to establish strength and flexibility goals while designing individualized exercise programs for our clients,” she said. “We provide transportation to these private appointments and offer hands-on encouragement as clients implement the specialized plans crafted by their professional teams.”

Additional tips from Plotkin included dressing in layers, staying hydrated to help with dry skin, increasing consumption of vitamin D – and making the leap to brave the cold.

“As you’re walking and moving, it’s bringing more blood to the brain,” Plotkin said. “The hard part is getting there.”

Jones

Plotkin

Aging is a life stage worth talking about

LORI LYNN AND DINA ROCK Special to the CJN

Aging is one of the few life stages every family will experience, yet it’s often the one we talk about the least.

We plan for education, careers and retirement with intention and foresight. We discuss milestones, set goals and prepare for what’s ahead. Aging, however, is frequently approached di erently; not because it’s unimportant, but because it can feel uncomfortable, uncertain, or easy to postpone.

In less than a decade, there will be more people over the age of 65 than under the age of 18. is shift doesn’t signal a problem, but it does invite us to think di erently about how we support ourselves, our loved ones and our communities as we grow older. Aging doesn’t happen all at once. It unfolds gradually through evolving needs, changing roles and small moments that often go unnoticed until they accumulate. When conversations about aging are delayed until a moment of urgency, families may nd themselves making important decisions without the bene t of shared understanding or preparation.

ese conversations don’t have to be formal or heavy. ey often begin in ordinary moments during a walk, over a meal or while re ecting on a recent experience. A comment about a neighbor, a news story or a family memory can naturally open the door to deeper re ection. What matters most is not having the “right” answers, but creating space for listening. Aging conversations are as much about understanding values and priorities as they are about logistics. ey allow people to express what gives them comfort, what independence means to them, and how they hope to stay connected to the people and activities they love.

When approached this way, these

discussions can actually strengthen relationships. ey o er reassurance, reduce assumptions and help families move forward with shared understanding rather than uncertainty.

Many adult children have seen how roles can shift and how much easier those transitions can be when conversations happen earlier.

So what does it actually mean to talk about aging before we have to?

Often, it begins with simple but meaningful topics: personal values, daily routines, health wishes, nancial organization and how someone hopes to be supported as they grow older. ese are not one-time discussions, nor do they require immediate decisions. ey are ongoing conversations that evolve over time.

Families often say they wish they had done small things sooner, rather than being forced to make big decisions later.

When families approach aging this way, preparation becomes an act of care rather than control. Awareness creates con dence. And clarity helps preserve dignity, independence and peace of mind for everyone involved.

Aging is not a problem to solve. It is a life stage to be acknowledged thoughtfully, intentionally and together.

So, how do you think about aging today? And what small conversation could you begin now that might make the road ahead feel a little clearer?

Dina Rock and Lori Lynn are co-founders of Cleveland-based Next Steps Eldercare Consulting.

Content provided by advertising partner.

DISCLAIMER

Looking for programs & services for older adults?

&CO NFI D ENTIA

• Food programs

•Care navigation and caregiver support

•Jewish life resources

•Upcoming local events

• Volunteer opportunities

• Cemetery database

•Genealogy information and more! Visit us at accessjewishcleveland.org or call us at 216-292-INFO (4636), Mon-Thu 9 am to 5 pm, Fri 9 am to 3 pm.

Lynn Rock

Right at Home

WHEN EXPERIENCE, STABILITY, AND VALUES MATTER: WHY FAMILIES CHOOSE RIGHT AT HOME

In Jewish tradition, caring for older adults is more than a practical responsibility. It is a moral one. Kibud av va’em, honoring our parents, calls on us to protect dignity, show compassion, and ensure loved ones are not left to face aging alone. For families across Greater Cleveland, those values often guide one of the most important decisions they will make: choosing inhome care.

That decision has become more complex in today’s home-care environment. Over the past year, several agencies serving Northeast Ohio have closed or exited the market. While some families may never notice, the reasons behind these departures matter. Rising costs, workforce shortages, and the growing difficulty of recruiting and retaining excellent caregivers have made it challenging for many providers to sustain quality care. “Families don’t call us because they want help for a day or a week,” says owner Shalom Plotkin. “They call because they need to know someone will show up, communicate,

and stay committed. In home care, stability is everything.”

For many families, Right at Home Cleveland East stands out not because it is the newest option, but because it has remained consistent, stable, and deeply rooted in the community.

Right at Home Cleveland East has earned national recognition through Activated Insights, receiving the Employer of Choice, Provider of Choice and Leader in Experience awards. These honors are based on verified feedback from caregivers and clients’ families. In addition, the agency has been named a Caring Super Star by Caring.com for 10 consecutive years. Together, these recognitions reflect what families value most: reliability over time.

At the same time, no care organization is perfect. Home care involves people, changing needs, and daily realities that cannot always be predicted. What families value most is not perfection, but responsiveness. When questions or concerns arise, Right at Home addresses them directly, communicates openly, and works quickly to make things right.

One Beachwood family recalls beginning care cautiously, uncertain how their mother, who valued routine and independence, would adjust. Within weeks, the same caregiver was arriving consistently, learning

preferences, sharing conversation, and becoming a trusted presence. “It stopped feeling like outside help,” the family shared. “It felt familiar and steady.”

That consistency is intentional. Right at Home works hard to send the same caregivers to the same clients whenever possible. In an industry often marked by frequent staff changes, continuity allows trust to grow and anxiety to fade.

The foundation of that continuity is investment in caregivers. Right at Home focuses on recruiting experienced aides from the local community and supporting them long term through ongoing monthly training. When caregivers feel valued and prepared, clients feel the difference.

Communication is another key distinction. Families can reach the office around the clock and speak with someone who knows their situation. Questions are answered, changes are addressed, and concerns are handled promptly.

For Jewish families especially, care is about more

than tasks. It is about respect, understanding, and honoring family values. Right at Home approaches each client relationship with that awareness.

Right at Home Cleveland East proudly serves Beachwood, Solon, Mayfield, Shaker Heights, Cleveland Heights, University Heights, South Euclid, Warrensville Heights, Lyndhurst, Chagrin Falls, Highland Heights, Orange, Gates Mills, Pepper Pike, Moreland Hills and surrounding communities.

In an uncertain care landscape, families are increasingly asking not just who can help today, but who will still be there tomorrow.

To learn more, visit OhioSeniorCare.net or call 216-752-2222. Right

Ohioseniorcare.net | Shalom@ OhioSeniorCare.net

ADVERTORIAL

Anna Maria Of Aurora

SENATIONAL SENIORS BENEFIT FROM PROACTIVE PLANNING AT ANNA MARIA OF AURORA

At The Campus of Anna Maria of Aurora, the focus is not on reacting to change, but on helping seniors and their families stay informed, prepared, and confident long before care becomes an urgent need. Through early conversations and proactive planning, the community empowers seniors to remain involved in decisions about their future while preserving independence and peace of mind.

As people age, they may experience a range of changes, including mobility challenges, health concerns, and memory loss. While Alzheimer’s disease is not the only challenge families navigate, it is often part of the broader conversation around aging and long term planning. Anna Maria recognizes this reality and supports efforts that promote awareness and research, reflecting a commitment to understanding the experiences many families face.

Staff members frequently note that some of the most positive outcomes occur when individuals and families tour the campus early. Visiting before care is needed allows seniors to observe daily life, routines, and relationships, offering a realistic picture of supportive living without the pressure of immediate decision making.

“Touring gives people perspective,” one team member shared. “It replaces fear of the unknown with understanding.”

Life at Anna Maria is thoughtfully structured to reduce daily stress while supporting independence. Consistent routines, nutritious meals, medication

assistance, and a secure environment provide stability, allowing residents to focus on enjoying familiar habits and meaningful moments. Engagement remains central to daily life on campus. Sensational seniors are encouraged to stay active through programs that promote movement, creativity, and social connection, from gentle exercise and games to music, conversation and shared laughter. These experiences support physical wellbeing, emotional health, and a strong sense of belonging.

With a consistent team of caregivers and licensed nurses available around the clock, subtle changes are noticed early and addressed with care. Ultimately, Anna Maria encourages families not to wait for uncertainty or crisis before exploring options. Touring early, asking questions, and learning about available resources can bring clarity and lasting reassurance. To learn more, visit annamariaofaurora.com or call 330-562-6171.

Anna Maria Of Aurora

889 N. Aurora Rd Aurora, OH 44202 330-562-6171 annamariaofaurora.com

Plotkin

Minnie and Ramona - October 28, 2015

I am a

My caregiver is so compassionate. She was so much help. She went above and beyond. Right at Home is a wonderful company and their employees are professionnal, hardworking and always looking to help where we need them. We would use them again and would recommend them to anyone.

Dr. A- October 31, 2015

I am a current client

Minnie and Ramona - October 28, 2015

I am a past client

Steve V. - September 30, 2015

We had a good fit with the caregiver. She was a perfect fit for us. Shelly understands what we need and picked up on where everything is in the kitchen quickly. Communication between us is excellent. She is a real winner. I feel she is someone to look forward seeing again.

Power of attorney

Fully furnished? Decorated the way you like? Family welcome at any time? Nothing is more

Dr. A- October 31, 2015

I am a current client

They were very caring and helpful. Prompt to reply and thorough in their approach. The caregivers were exceptional. Can't recommend highly enough.

What our clients are saying: M.G.

Steve V. - September 30, 2015

Power of attorney

They were very caring and helpful. Prompt to reply and thorough in their approach. The caregivers were exceptional. Can't recommend highly enough.

Shalom of Right at Home gives oﬀ-the-charts splendorous service. He truly cares about his clients and has a vast reservoir of services which he graciously bestows, with a smile. He is a Light unto Am Yisrael and the Nations. I am a 75 year old resident of Myers Apartments in Beachwood, Ohio.

Senior Solutions

SENIOR SOLUTIONS: COMPASSIONATE CARE, FROM OUR FAMILY TO YOURS

At the heart of Senior Solutions is a mother-and-son team devoted to redefining what compassionate care looks like for seniors and their families. Founded by Jamie Berns and run together with her son, Gabriel Malik, Senior Solutions is a true family business — built on empathy, integrity, and the belief that every senior deserves to live with dignity, independence, and respect.

in real estate law and later as a beloved preschool teacher, Jamie has always dedicated herself to helping others grow and thrive. But it was her mother-in-law’s illness that changed everything. Witnessing the gaps in elder care firsthand, she was inspired to create a service that placed compassion and respect at the center of everything — and Senior Solutions was born.

Senior S olutions

Jamie’s path to senior care has been as rich as it is meaningful. From teaching children as a horse trainer and educator to a successful career

Senior

When

As the company grew, Gabriel joined his mother to help expand and modernize the family business while keeping its heart intact. Together, they’ve built something special — a care team that feels like family and operates with the same warmth and attentiveness they’d want for their own loved ones.

Senior Solutions

From companionship and personal care to memory support and respite services, Senior Solutions provides tailored, in-home assistance designed around each client’s needs. And whether your loved one lives at home, in assisted living, or in a nursing facility, the Senior Solutions team ensures they receive the attention, dignity, and comfort they deserve.

“When families call us,” Gabriel says, “they’re not talking to a call center — they’re talking to us. We take every call personally because we know how personal this decision is.” At Senior Solutions, care isn’t just a service — it’s a relationship. From our family to yours, we’re here to help your loved ones live comfortably, safely, and with compassion.

CARE THAT BRINGS PEACE OF MIND

Cherished Companion, LLC

Cherished companion is dedicated to redefining home healthcare for the elderly, specializing in compassionate care for individuals with dementia and Alzheimer’s. Our mission is to ensure that every client feels safe, valued, respected and genuinely loved in the comfort of their own home. We understand the challenges that families face when caring for loved ones with cognitive impairments, which is why we provide professional caregivers who go above and beyond typical “aide” services. Our team is not just trained in essential medical care; they also excel in building meaningful relationships, offering companionship that alleviates feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Families can rest easy knowing that when Cherished Companion is on the case, their loved ones are in capable hands, receiving the attention and respect they deserve. We believe that every interaction is an opportunity to uplift and empower, fostering a sense of purpose and belonging for those we serve.

With Cherished Companion, you can trust your loved ones are not just cared for but cherished, and our many satisfied clients stand as a testament to our commitment to excellence.

Cherished Companion, LLC

Angie Coleman

Raising the bar in home healthcare. Unmatched care and support tailored to you!

My husband has multiple problems, including dementia, heart problems, diabetes; the list goes on and on. A year ago I discovered Angie. She has been a

ClevelandSmiles

DISPLAY YOUR BEST SMILE WITH THE HELP OF CLEVELANDSMILES COSMETIC DENTIST STEVE MARSH!

ClevelandSmiles, led by Dr. Steven P. Marsh, is a trusted cosmetic dentist in Cleveland, Ohio, providing exceptional cosmetic and restorative dental care to patients across the Cleveland metropolitan area. With more than 40 years of experience, Dr. Marsh is dedicated to creating healthy, beautiful smiles and has earned a reputation for skill, compassion, and outstanding results.

What sets Dr. Marsh and the team at ClevelandSmiles apart is their meticulous attention to detail and personalized approach. Every treatment plan is thoughtfully customized to address each patient’s unique needs. From cosmetic imaging to digital impressions to comprehensive after-care, every step is designed to ensure outstanding results tailored to that individual.

Dr. Marsh offers a full spectrum of dental services, ranging from routine care to advanced cosmetic dentistry and restorative procedures. In addition to general dentistry, such as regular cleanings and check-ups, his expertise includes dental bonding, porcelain veneers, teeth whitening, tooth-colored fillings, crowns and bridges, dental implants, Lumineer veneers, and gum lift and contouring.

Whether a patient wishes to enhance the appearance of her or his smile or requires extensive restorative work, Dr. Marsh combines advanced technology with decades of expertise to deliver exceptional, long-lasting results. He is also deeply committed to patient education, taking the time to explain each procedure thoroughly and address any questions or concerns.

Dr. Marsh and the team at ClevelandSmiles offers expert dental care with a personal touch. Backed by years of experience, Dr. Marsh

is dedicated to transforming smiles and enhancing lives through compassionate, high-quality treatment – treating each and every patient as if they were a member of his own family – a lesson learned from his mother, a teacher, and his father, a dentist.

Don’t just take our word for it—see what our patients have to say: Every time I visit Dr. Marsh’s office, I remind myself that MOST people hate going to the dentist. NOT SO at Dr. Marsh’s office! His staff are folks who have been with him for many, many years and he fosters an atmosphere of partnership with them. Each staff member greets you by name, remembers the last conversation you had with them, and demonstrates honesty, professionalism, and true concern for your wellbeing as a patient who has many choices of dentists in the area. Sure, I would rather be going to baseball game… but having Dr. Marsh’s team take care of me gives me 100% confidence that I really have nothing to worry. Thank you!

ClevelandSmiles

Dr. Steve Marsh, DDS Brainard Place, Suite 540 29001 Cedar Road Lyndhurst, OH 44124 440-461-1003 clevelandsmiles.com

Content provided by advertising partner

Dr. Marsh’s weekly Sunday segment at 8:28am

S., October 2025

Hospice of the Western Reserve rebrands to Reserve Care

Hospice of the Western Reserve recently rebranded as Reserve Care, a move made to better represent the organization’s full scope of services and the role it plays in supporting individuals and their families across Ohio through the process of caregiving during serious illness and end of life, according to a news release.

“Reserve Care more clearly re ects the breadth of care we provide and the way we walk alongside people over the course of their care journey,” Bill Finn, president and CEO of Reserve Care, said in the release. “It honors nearly ve decades of trust built as Hospice of the Western Reserve while giving us

a name that better re ects how we serve patients, caregivers and families today and how we will continue to serve them in the future. is moment re ects deep gratitude for the clinicians, sta , volunteers, donors and partners who make this care possible and for the patients and loved ones who place their trust in us every day.”

Founded in 1978 as a nonpro t hospice provider in Northeast Ohio, Reserve Care has served nearly 640,000 patients and family members across its nearly 50-year history, according to the release. Its services have expanded over that time, branching out to include hospice and palliative care, pediatric

services, grief and caregiver support, art and music therapies and community resale shops that help fund care. Reserve Care has over 10 locations in Ohio and 24/7 care it o ers in patients’ homes.

“Our focus remains exactly where it has always been, on providing expert, compassionate care and steady guidance during some of life’s most complex moments,” Finn said. “As Reserve Care, we will continue to lead with clinical excellence, strong partnerships and a deep commitment to meeting people where they are, whenever and however they need us.”

Finn