Second Free Echocardiogram Screening – March 20th, 2010
On February 3rd, 2010 a strategy meeting for the March 20th free echocardiogram screening for 8th grade student athletes in the district was attended by Arnie Epstein (District Health & Athletic Director), Barbara Young, (District Head Nurse), MaryBeth Thurston (Middle School Nurse), Audrey Goropeuschek (Middle School Principal), Joyce Leider & Dalila Duffy (Middle School PTA Presidents), Joe Sinnona & Neil Sterrer (Co-Chairmen of the local Broker’s Council & Realtor liasons for the Program). Permission slips from Schneider Children’s Hospital are being distributed to all who are eligible. Outreach & awareness events are planned prior to the screening.
Pictured above left to right, seated are Audrey Goropeuschek, Mary Beth Thurston, Joyce Leider & Dalila Duffy. Standing left to right are Joe Sinnona, Barbara Young and Neil Sterrer. Not pictured, but in attendance, is Arnie Epstein.
Below is the “SAVE THE DATE” Flyer for the event.
Also attached are paraphrased excerpts from the draft letter being sent to all particpants explaining the program:
“The Schneider Children’s Hospital of the North Shore Long Island Jewish Health Care System and the Long Beach School District are once again offering a voluntary screening heart ultrasound (echocardiogram) on Saturday, March 20, 2010 for students who wish to particpate in district sports programs. The ultrasound exam will evaluate the size and function of the left pumping chamber of the heart (left ventricle) and the size of the main artery of the body (aorta) as well as the function of its valve (aortic valve) to identify abnormalities that may not be apparent on customary pre-participation physical examinations. Abnormal left ventricular size (cardiomyopathy), abnormal aorta size or function may result in abnormalities of heart function when an individual with such an abnormality particpates in organized, competitive sports.”
“The results of the screening heart ultrasound study will be forwarded approximately 6 weeks after the examination. This study is not intended to replace a sports physical if required by the school district nor is the screening heart ultrasound intended to replace the child’s evaluation by a heart specialist that is recommended by the child’s health care provider.”
