The HTV experience isn’t just about seeing, it’s about feeling. We want to inspire our viewers and create a connection, which is why we’re proud to announce the addition of a new network series, called Never Give Up: A Guide to Beating the Odds. Each segment shares a story, of tragedy and triumph, of hope and inspiration, from unbelievable people who represent the true meaning of ‘beating the odds’. Hear from all the Quarterbacks of Life like Bethany Hamilton, a shark attack survivor and competitive surfer, and Erik Weihenmayer, a blind mountain climber who has reached all of the highest peaks of the seven summits. “I’m thrilled to be able to bring such inspiring stories to our network,” says Tom Combs, Vice President of Programming for HTV.

The message behind this series stems from the Beating the Odds Foundation, which helps America’s youth become winners in life despite the challenges, setbacks, or obstacles they face in today’s society, and works to inspire individuals to reach their full potential in life. The charity was founded by Rocco Scalzi, a former police officer that managed to turn his life around after a tragic incident during his rookie year. Over the past 20 years, Beating the Odds has spread their guidance, support and encouragement to over 400,000 students across the country. Rocco has accomplished this with the help of Quarterbacks of Life role models, such as former Pittsburgh Steeler great and Vietnam War veteran Rocky Bleier, who serves as Co-Chairman of the Beating the Odds Foundation. From Rocco’s own life lessons, and others who have emerged from some of life’s toughest battles, Beating the Odds is able to show everyone that the power to succeed in the face of obstacles comes from within.

To learn more about the Beating the Odds Foundation, please go to www.beatingtheodds.org

The Healthcare Television Network is proud to announce the latest addition to the programming lineup of HTV called Today’s Green Minute. Veteran host Jim Parks takes you inside the wealth of innovation being generated in the green world, with stories that are informative and fun to watch. “I’m very excited to have such a fantastic program like this on our network. Today’s Green Minute gives an environmental message in such a positive and interesting way that really sets it apart,” says Tom Combs, Vice President of Programming for HTV. From a brewery bringing down energy costs, to the environmental benefits of algae, you’ll learn something exciting and valuable with each episode. Health isn’t just about taking care of ourselves, it’s about taking care of our planet, too! At the Healthcare Television Network, finding the freshest and most entertaining content is our goal, and Today’s Green Minute adds another great program to our HTV lineup.

To learn more about Today’s Green Minute and to watch episodes, head on over to http://todaysgreenminute.com

Also, be sure to check us out, the Healthcare Television Network, at http://htvnetworks.com

More than 300 companies in the healthcare industry call the Nashville area home and it’s no mistake. After all, Nashville is the center of hospital management and related services, education and research, ambulatory and outpatient surgery, disease management, clinical research, health information technology and biotechnology. Our company could not resist the opportunity for innovation and collaboration that the ‘U.S. healthcare capital’ offers. That’s why we recently expanded production to Nashville and we already have some amazing partnerships.

When you think of healthcare in the United States, it’s hard not to think of HCA, the Hospital Corporation of America. Founded in 1963 and Nashville-based, HCA is the nation’s leading provider of healthcare services. The company is comprised of 163 hospitals and 109 freestanding surgery centers in twenty states (and England!). Our company is lucky enough to work with this corporation and together we have created something great. It’s called the H2U Television Network, a custom-built network for HCA and their consumer wellness brand, Health to You. The network broadcasts throughout HCA’s facilities and gives H2U the ability to increase memberships and empower individuals to manage their health and wellness. From hospital service line highlights to health advice from NBC’s ‘Biggest Loser’ contestant Hannah Curlee, the H2U Television Network is our latest endeavor to provide health programming that’s entertaining and informational.

We feel privileged to have production set up in Nashville and honored to work with such a reputable company as HCA. To be at the heart of healthcare in such an ever changing world and see the influence healthcare has on everyone’s lives allows us to create and deliver high-quality, influential video content. The future is looking bright for us and we hope to utilize this new development in taking on the rest of the country, so stay tuned!

We’re a month into 2012 and many of us made New Year’s resolutions relating to our health. ‘I’m going to lose weight.’ ‘I’m going to exercise more.’ ‘I’m going to quit smoking.’ ‘I’m going to get more sleep.’ Whatever the goal was, or is, there’s one very annoying thing about New Year’s resolutions; while they’re easy to make, they’re even easier to break. In fact, 25% of adult Americans that made resolutions did not make it past the first week. Not to worry, even if you’ve lost sight of the health goal you made, there are ways to get back on track and ensure that the healthy changes you want to make actually stick.

Research suggests that there are some common strategies that can boost your chances for turning your words into actions. First, make sure your goal is a realistic one. Don’t set yourself up for failure by setting an impossibly high goal. Make it something doable. Instead of saying ‘I want to lose 20 pounds in two weeks’ try for something more along the lines of ‘I want to lose five pounds in a month’. Maybe you could lose 20 pounds in two weeks, but chances are it wouldn’t be completed in a healthy manner and the weight would come back in no time. The realistic goal might be smaller but it is way more attainable. Next, develop an action plan. Lets stick with the idea of losing weight. Start writing down steps that can help you put your plan, and yourself, to work. Maybe you decide you want to walk for thirty minutes each day, or cut soda out of your diet, or keep a food diary to track caloric intake. Writing down what you need to do and visualizing doing these things holds you accountable for your resolution and its something tangible that you can refer back to. Also, remember that part of your strategy should include planning for obstacles and preparing for possible challenges you may face. Maybe you have a party to attend and you know there will be lots of tasty temptations there. Don’t just say ‘oh, I can cheat just this once’ or ‘oh, I just wont go’. Face the challenge by being ready for it. Eat something healthy and filling before the party and when you get there, choose one thing you really want to try, enjoy it, and move on. You’ll come away stronger and more confident knowing that you can stay on track with these life changes.

Now that your resolution is mapped out (bumps and all) and you’re tackling it head on, you have to keep the momentum going. Make sure you track your progress; go over what’s worked, what hasn’t worked and what will best keep you focused. Behavioral researcher and clinical psychologist Dr. Christine Hunter notes that “self-monitoring or tracking seems to be critical for almost every sort of behavior change.” In other words, check yourself before you wreck yourself. Creating a supportive environment is also key to your success. Physically, you might need the appropriate exercise equipment, food and clothing. Socially, enlist friends and family to help with your goals. Ask them to go to a class or cook a healthy meal with you. Chances are they’ll want to adopt this healthy change as well.

Some final thoughts on keeping your resolution a permanent fixture in your life: have fun! This can be accomplished by treating yourself every once in a while. I’m not saying go out and polish off a carton of ice cream, but more along the lines of buying that new pair of shoes you really wanted as a means of rewarding yourself for completing your first half-marathon. Also, keep things new and exciting by adding variety to your goal plan. Try a new healthy recipe or expand your goals so you stay motivated. Think about it: the more fun something is, the more likely you are to do it and make it a habit. Change can be hard, and it usually is. Commit to a resolution only when you are ready. That means it does not have to be a New Year to turn the page, it can be at any time in your life. If what you are aspiring to is something that comes from your heart, that you want for your life, and no one else’s, the sky’s the limit.

Ana Espinosa discusses the Ask for Ana program at the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, part of the University of Miami Health System. Ana and her team of cancer care coordinators help those diagnosed with cancer get through this difficult time in their lives.

No one should have to go through cancer alone, and Ask for Ana is just one of the many services available to those diagnosed with cancer as well as their loved ones. For example, the American Cancer Society offers a variety of vital services to cancer patients, including a 24-hour information line staffed by cancer specialists. These highly trained operators can answer questions about treatment options and available local services, such as no-cost transportation to and from treatments and cancer support groups.

Apart from having to cope with physical and medical challenges, people with cancer face many worries, feelings, and new concerns that can make life difficult. Seeking out psychosocial support is crucial to your well-being and can help people with cancer feel less isolated and distressed and improve the quality of their lives. The importance of a strong attitude and a determination to live life to the fullest can be invaluable during the time of diagnosis and on through treatment and recovery. However no one can be strong at all times. A cancer support system can be whom ever, what ever you like; family, friends, doctors, nurses, support groups, the internet, a journal. It’s about what works for you and what is going to smooth out the bumpy road you’re on.

Here is a quote from a spouse of a Sylvester cancer patient:

“Cancer is a word that I (to this day) do not like to utter, much less confront. Ana Espinosa did everything to comfort me, reassure me and help me. She guided me all along the way, steering me to the proper doctors. I don’t know how I would have gotten through those first days without her support and willingness to listen.”

It is unrealistic, perhaps even unhealthy, to try to get through this time without supportive, loving people in your life. This is the time to reach out and enjoy people and the gifts they have to offer. And who knows, you may be able to help someone else along this journey as well.

Check out this video we produced for HCA. It features Hospital Corporation of America Senior Vice President of Human Resources John Steele interviewing Hannah Curlee. She was runner-up to her sister on the most recent season of NBC’s The Biggest Loser.

Since leaving the ‘ranch’ at The Biggest Loser, Hannah has made a conscious effort to stay fit while paying forward the help and support she received. She is currently the Director of Health Engagement at H2U, a subsidiary of HCA.

Hannah, like many people, was unhappy with her weight. It was like being at a dead end and needing a road to motivation for a better life. That road ended up leading her to The Biggest Loser. During the interview with Hannah, she wanted to emphasize how the show made her realize that anybody can make goals and achieve them, but you have to take to take that first step. Once on the show, Hannah was able to be selfish, in a good way, and ask herself what she could do for herself today, tomorrow and the day after that. Her outlook on the experience is something anyone can adapt. Whether its losing weight or writing a book or raising kids, a person can best handle these endeavors by first bettering themselves. When you strive for your best self, your life and the lives of those around you will improve.

A big part of the show is the mantra “pay it forward”, that is, a good turn be repaid by having it done onto others. Hannah’s experience on The Biggest Loser changed her life forever and would not have been as gratifying without the unconditional support from her HCA family. Now, she is dedicated to helping her employees and community get active and healthy. HCA has numerous programs ranging from diabetes to weight management, and Hannah is placing the spotlight on these resources. Hannah and her sister’s website, myfitsperation.com, is another way by which she lends her knowledge and guidance to those who need it. It’s advice on fashion, fitness and all things fun that make you feel good about yourself.

Hannah is just one person in this world trying to make a difference, but it’s people like her whose efforts can have a tremendous impact. Sharing her story and her tips inspires others to do the same, which in turn creates a rippling effect of motivation and achievement. Being happy and healthy can be simple if each and every individual realizes that life is a collaboration; one person connecting to another, a group combining with another group, a nation helping another nation. However, building any kind of relationship starts with you, as a person, and who you are at your core. Becoming your best self is an ever changing process but embracing support and giving it in return makes it that much easier. Remember, what you get out of life is what you put into it.

Director of Minimally Invasive and Robotic Cardio Surgery at University of Miami Hospital Dr. Didier De Canniere discusses the advancement and advantage of minimally invasive coronary bypass surgery. He pioneered robotic minimally invasive cardiac surgery.

Standard heart surgery typically requires exposure of the heart and its vessels through an opening in the chest cavity. It is considered one of the most invasive and traumatic aspects of open heart surgery. Thanks to the minimally invasive approach, the heart is accessed through small incisions, without separating the sternum and rib cage. Specialized techniques and miniature cameras with microscopes and high-definition monitors give surgeons the ability to perform surgery through the incisions.

Another radical innovation in minimally invasive heart surgery is the use of the da Vinci Surgical System. With the da Vinci, small incisions are used to introduce miniaturized wristed instruments and a high-definition 3D camera. Surgeons sit at a console and direct tiny robotic hands, performing the procedure with precision that takes surgery beyond the limits of the human hand.

Both laproscopic (minimally invasive) and robotic surgery offer major advantages, such as lower risk of bleeding and infection, faster recovery, shorter hospital stay, accelerated return to activities, dramatic reduction in pain and much smaller scars. These techniques are applicable for performing a wide range of complex heart procedures, including single or multiple heart valve procedures, bypass surgery, congenital heart repairs, and re-operations. Keep in mind that minimally invasive heart surgery is not for everyone, and your doctor will determine if it’s a viable option for you as a patient.

Advancements in cardiac surgery continue to foster innovation and promote the development of new approaches to existing operations as well as the invention of completely new operations. The future looks promising, as professionals are always seeking new ways to get to the heart of the matter.

University of Miami Hospital Associate Professor of Clinical Urology Dr. Bruce Kava discusses surgery for those with enlarged prostates. UM Hospital Urology is able to provide a number of different options for the treatment of urologic diseases and disorders, from non-surgical and minimally invasive techniques to complex surgical procedures.

A man’s prostate gland usually starts to enlarge after he reaches 40 years of age. This condition is called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The prostate gland surrounds the urethra which is the tube that carries urine and when this gland is enlarged, it may press on the urethra causing men to have trouble urinating. The narrowing of the urethra can also result in urinary tract infections. An increase number of cells causes a prostate to enlarge, however one cannot pinpoint an exact reason for this increase.

Sometimes patients can go years with an enlarged prostate without even know it due to masked symptoms. In fact, a lot times men don’t know their prostate is enlarged until after having a surgery completely unrelated to the prostate. If there are symptoms from an enlarge prostate, men might experience a weak stream of urine, overall difficulty urinating or a leaking urine. In severe cases, blood may be present in the urine and one might experience vomiting or a fever. In this case, medical attention should be sought immediately.

Certain exams and tests can be done by your doctor such as a digital rectal exam, blood test or urine flow study. In general, men over 50 years of age should have their prostate checked annually by their physician even if they have no symptoms. Once prostate enlargement is diagnosed, its best to keep a watchful eye, for many men see a decrease in symptoms without treatment. Medications are available to those with an enlarged prostate. For example, alpha-blockers relax the muscles in the prostate and thus relieve symptoms.

As shown in the above video, surgery for an enlarged prostate is an option, but be mindful that it is a last resort. The most common type of surgery is called transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP). In TURP, the surgeon inserts a thin tube up the urethra and cuts away pieces of the prostate with a wire loop while looking through a cystoscope.

Luckily, The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) conducts ongoing research aimed at finding treatments for urinary disorders, including BPH. Very recently, a team of doctors in Israel claimed that prostate enlargement is actually a secondary symptom to a condition called varicoceles (varicose veins in the testicles). With these findings they developed a non-invasive, catheterisation method that blocks malfunctioning varicose veins.

When it comes down to it, an enlarged prostate is, like many other conditions, something that comes with age. Its treatment depends on the individual’s preference, but when your quality of life is being compromised, perhaps its time to address this issue. After all, you shouldn’t let an enlarged prostate keep you from living large.

Chief Medical Director Dr. Jerry Goodwin and Genetic Counselor Talia Donenberg with Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center discuss what you can do to decrease your chances of developing cancer.

There are small changes you can make in your daily life that could make a big difference. First, put down the cigarette! Smoking has be linked to various types of cancer and quitting tobacco will improve your overall health. Eat a healthy diet, opting for fruits and vegetables and limiting your fat intake. Maintaining a healthy weight may lower the risk of several cancers. Physical exercise is a great way to control your weight and improve your mood. Lastly, take early detection seriously, especially if certain types of cancers run in your family. Scheduling regular screenings and self-exams are crucial to early detection. Talk with your doctor about what screenings are right for you.

These steps are not only pertinent in winning the war against cancer but they can help you achieve optimal health. About 550,000 people die annually from cancer, and perhaps this number could go down if we realize that the cure for cancer, just might be prevention.

Advanced wound healing techniques including Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) are available at the center and their team works closely with primary care physicians to develop a specific treatment plan to best meet the needs of their patients.

Lee Wound Care becomes the 16th HTV subscriber overall to have HTV successfully installed.