Connecting Youth To Medicine

By: Mason Wignall

The Estes Park High School Sports Medicine Academy took part in the 9th annual Hospital Tour on February 9th The most important way to ensure the future of the medical field is to get the younger generation involved. That is why Dr. Florence, the local orthopedic surgeon, organizes this immersive tour of the hospital and the people that make it work. The student began the day by learning about the stressful but rewarding work life of EMTs and emergency room doctors, such as Dr. Daley. They were led through some simulations to gain first-hand experience of an active emergency. The tour continued with a trip through the floors of the hospital, learning about nearly every department. The student met with the technicians that run machines such as MRI and Ultrasounds to see up close what it takes to safely and effectively operate these machines.

The Estes Park Hospital shut down the operation room for a day to allow the student a behind the scene look at how surgeries are kept sterile and safe. The final step in the tour was a visit to the physical and occupational therapists. Here they learned about the wide variety of injuries these professionals are trained to treat. After a delicious meal made by the hospital's head chef, the group ended the day with a career panel where the medical professions taught the students about what it takes to pursue a career in their field. At the end of the day, every student went home with a stronger understanding of what the medical field is and how rewarding the career path can be.

Thanks to Estes Park Health and all of the medical professionals involved in making such an amazing day happen.

Local Members Of Methodist Church Gift Estes Park Health Patients With Teddy Bears

Twelve members of the Estes Park United Methodist Church crafted teddy bears to give out to the community. On Monday, February 20, the church brought 48 of these handmade stuffed animals to the emergency department at Estes Park Health (EPH) where they will be distributed to children in need of comfort during a hospital visit. Left to right are Lee Criswell, member of Estes Park United Methodist Church, Ann Lantz, Pastor of Estes Park United Methodist Church, Dr. John Meyer, Chief of Staff and Emergency Department (ED) physician and Pat Samples, Chief Nursing Officer. EPH is grateful for the many years members of this church have lovingly made these bears for members of the Estes Valley community in crisis.