Dear Friends:

Welcome to Newton-Wellesley News —a brief e-newsletter intended to keep you informed about clinical programs, events and progress at your community hospital.

In this first issue, you will read about a local resident who is healthy today thanks to having access to an important cancer clinical trial, and the outstanding work being achieved by the hospital’s Collaborative for Healthy Families & Communities. You’ll also hear from Matthew Leibowitz, MD, Chief of Infectious Disease, who shares his insights on the COVID-19 pandemic.

This has been a challenging time at Newton-Wellesley, and I am incredibly proud of the work we have been able to achieve. We have provided exceptional care to hundreds of individuals from across our community. We have celebrated those who have been discharged from Newton-Wellesley and are on their way to recovery. We have also honored those who have passed due to this horrific disease. And through it all, we have worked hard to support the mental health and emotional needs of our caregivers.

Currently much of our focus is on preparing the hospital for many of the elective procedures that were deferred. We will do this in accordance with state guidelines issued recently by the Governor’s office and the Department of Public Health. That said, I want to reinforce that Newton-Wellesley has continued to treat urgent and emergent medical needs as they have arisen throughout the crisis. 

We appreciate all your support during this pandemic. Please consider making a donation to support the NWH Covid-19 Fund .
Undoubtedly you have heard the great news of our new President. Errol R. Norwitz, MD, PhD, MBA , arrives as President of Newton-Wellesley Hospital on July 1. Dr. Norwitz is a respected health care leader, physician, scientist and researcher. He currently serves as Chief of the Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Chief Scientific Officer at Tufts Medical Center. He is the Louis E. Phaneuf Professor at Tufts University School of Medicine. Dr. Norwitz and his family reside in Newton and receive their care at Newton-Wellesley Hospital. We are excited to have someone of his caliber join our talented team of physicians, nurses and support staff, and look forward to introducing him to you. 

We appreciate your support—now more than ever. Please enjoy this first issue of Newton-Wellesley News - a publication from the Development Office.

Gregg S. Meyer, MD
Chief Clinical Officer, Mass General Brigham
Interim President, Newton-Wellesley Hospital
A Conversation with Matthew Leibowitz, MD, Chief of Infectious Diseases

During the COVID-19 pandemic, someone needed to serve as lieutenant general. At Newton-Wellesley, that was Matthew Leibowitz, MD, Chief of Infectious Diseases, who says he spent most of his time and energy making plans, troubleshooting and worrying. He shares his initial observations, wishful thinking and what he learned during a relentless period of time. He also reflects on the resilience and strength shown by his Newton-Wellesley colleagues.

Unique NWH Initiative Addresses Postpartum Depression 

It is not easy to admit that you are suffering from postpartum depression. New mothers are encouraged to believe that, aside from a predictable loss of sleep, they should feel happy. But approximately ten percent of women who give birth experience postpartum depression, often with severe anxiety, which often is kept private and remains hidden.

“We’ve advanced in our understanding of postpartum depression and anxiety, and we know the Edinburgh scale is an effective tool in identifying it.”

- Buffy Sheff Ross, MSW, LICSW, the clinical social worker follows up with women who are candidates for treatment. 

Donor Spotlight
Julie Marriott Understood What NWH’s Collaborative Could Achieve

When the Collaborative for Healthy Families & Communities was envisioned in 2017, a handful of individuals understood its potential to harness the expertise and energy of community members. Their goal was to expand the impact of Newton-Wellesley in addressing unmet health and wellness needs. Julie Marriott was one of those who saw the potential.

Collaborative for Health Families & Communities

There are now eight councils comprised of community residents and organizations, as well as Newton-Wellesley staff, that address important community needs.
  • Cardiovascular Council
  • Domestic & Sexual Violence Council
  • Elder Care Council
  • Maternity Services Council
  • Palliative Care Council
  • Resilience Project Council
  • Substance Use Council
  • Workforce Development Council
A Grim Diagnosis, Followed by Hope and Success

Ray Angelone remembers the day in January 2019 when he was told he had stage III pancreatic cancer. The Norfolk resident also remembers the precise moment when he was given hope that he might survive the devastating diagnosis. Not long ago, fewer than 5% of individuals with advanced pancreatic cancer were cured. 

“I was lying in bed at Newton-Wellesley Hospital, and I saw two doctors hovering at my door,” recalls Mr. Angelone, who is 52. “After looking at my chart, Dr. Blaszkowsky and Dr. Hong came in. That’s when Dr. Blaszkowsky told me they wanted to begin treatment as soon as possible, and Dr. Hong said I was a good candidate for a clinical trial. He also said the goal wasn’t just to treat advanced pancreatic cancer, but to cure it.”

Newton-Wellesley Hospital
Development Office
2014 Washington Street
Newton, MA 02462
617-243-6000