Summer 2019
Commitment to Community Page 12
President’s Letter
Definitions of nurse and physician include phrases such as “cares for the sick” and “skilled in the art of healing.” Living up to those definitions is something we pride ourselves on. It’s an expectation that has been set by every patient who entrusts Methodist Health System with their care. But in this issue of The Meaning of Care magazine, I’m excited for you to explore some shining examples of how our team is holding true to not only those dictionary definitions, but also ours. In March, our region was hit by flooding unlike anything we had seen in years. Communities served by Methodist Health System were some of the hardest hit, and our team at Methodist Fremont Health found itself on an island for several days – with no way into or out of the community. That didn’t stop Rachael Nielsen from rendering aid to those in Dodge and Snyder. She was one of many care providers who refused to let water stand in the way.
Steve Goeser
President and CEO Methodist Health System
A few years ago, we began a care management program for patients facing COPD and heart failure. We realized these patients needed a partner in their health care journey, and our care navigators have become so much more. Such health conditions can be physically and emotionally challenging, but our team walks beside our patients every step of the way, enhancing their quality of life. Caring for patients while they’re most vulnerable are the nurses who make up our SANE/SART team at Methodist. Since it was established 16 years ago, the program has given voices to more survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence and human trafficking than anyone else in the region. And finally, one of the most shocking diagnoses to receive: cancer. A young father feared his time was coming. A young mother feared losing her identity. But they were in the hands of Dr. Scott DeBates and Dr. Katie Honz – who continually go above and beyond to provide cancer patients with lasting hope and healing. Sure, our nurses “care for the sick.” Yes, our physicians are “skilled in the art of healing.” But as a health system, we lend a hand in disaster, we walk beside the weak, we give voices to the vulnerable and we provide hope to the fearful. That’s our definition of The Meaning of Care. Sincerely,
ed N, open en, APR odge, ls ie N l Rachae nic in D odist cli the Meth in response to a, Nebrask rea flooding. a tn o m e Fr
From Trauma to Triumph Page 4
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Going the Extra Mile Page 6
Everybody Needs Somebody Watching Their Back Page 8
Reconstructing What Cancer Took Away Page 10
Commitment to Community Page 12
health information through various programs, and always being at the forefront of innovation.” Stoll, along with other Methodist spokespersons, was featured on WOWT throughout the event, encouraging citizens to donate. Joining Stoll were Dr. Lindsay Northam, internal medicine physician; Patty Bauer, vice president of Methodist Women’s Hospital; Mike Kraus, community benefits coordinator; and Lisa Peabody, clinical dietitian.
Methodist Women’s Hospital Earns Lactation Certification Methodist Helps WOWT Stuff the Bus
Methodist partnered with WOWT for the annual Stuff the Bus Food Drive on June 6 to support the nearly 150,000 Omaha area residents who have limited or low access to food.
The International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners® (IBLCE®) and International Lactation Consultant Association® (ILCA®) have recognized Methodist Women’s Hospital for excellence in lactation care.
Donations of nonperishable food and paper products were collected at Methodist Women’s Hospital and east of Methodist Physicians Clinic Indian Hills. The daylong effort resulted in 16,000 pounds of donations that will help fill the shelves at the St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry during extremely busy summer months – when pantries often struggle to meet demand. Nearly $700 in monetary donations was also collected. “Methodist was very proud and honored to work with WOWT on this important initiative within the Omaha community,” said Jenni Stoll, senior director of marketing for Methodist. “Improving the health of the Omaha community has always been an essential component of Methodist’s mission. We do that in many ways – by caring for our friends and neighbors, providing valuable
WOWT personalities with Patty Bauer, vice president of Methodist Women’s Hospital
Methodist has received the IBCLC Care Award, which recognizes facilities that hire International Board Certified Lactation Consultant® (IBCLC®) staff and provide a lactation program for breastfeeding families. In addition, Methodist participates in activities that help protect, promote and support breastfeeding.
The Methodist Women’s Hospital campus is a breastfeeding-friendly location that promotes the benefits of breastfeeding for mother and baby. Methodist’s 14 certified lactation consultants offer inpatient and outpatient lactation support by phone, by email or via one-on-one meetings. Support groups are also available, as well as information for breastfeeding moms returning to work.
KETV, Salvation Army Backpack Drive Underway
It can be difficult for many families to afford school supplies, and no child should have to start the school year without the tools they need to be successful. Families in Omaha and Council Bluffs benefit greatly from this campaign. For the sixth straight year, Methodist will be partnering with KETV and the Omaha Salvation Army for the Back-to-School Backpack Drive. Methodist will be collecting school supplies at the following Omaha locations: Methodist Estabrook Cancer Center, Methodist Hospital, Methodist Women’s Hospital and Nebraska Methodist College. Through Aug. 2, blue collection barrels can also be found at Methodist Jennie Edmundson Hospital in Council Bluffs and all Methodist Physicians Clinic primary care locations in the Omaha and Council Bluffs areas (192Dodge, Gretna, Hawthorne Court, HealthWest, Millard, Northwest, Cass Street, Regency, Indian Hills, Papillion, South, Council Bluffs and Risen Son). Donations will be accepted during regular hours of operation. All school supplies are welcome, but the greatest needs are backpacks, crayons, markers, rulers, glue, erasers, notebooks, folders, pencils, pens, paper, hand sanitizer, reusable water bottles and tissues.
Methodist Women’s Hospital is the second hospital in Nebraska to receive the IBCLC award. “There are so many things associated with a new little baby,” said Ronni Draper, outreach manager at Methodist Women’s Hospital. “It can be a bit overwhelming, and then you begin the breastfeeding process. Our lactation consultants meet with every new mom and make sure this is one area where mom and baby are both feeling comfortable. We want them to be at ease when they are with us but, more importantly, when they go home. If not, we are always available. Our services don’t end once you leave the hospital.”
KETV, the Salvation Army and other sponsors will be at Methodist Women’s Hospital on Friday, Aug. 2, for the final day of collections before distribution gets underway. Since 1998, more than 189,000 children have been equipped with new backpacks and school supplies through the drive.
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SANE/SART Coordinator Jen Tran, MSN, RN, SANE-A, with the Cortexflo, a high-definition camera that helps with evidence collection.
FROM TRAUMA
to Triumph Story by Emily Nohr Ramm
She was celebrating a night out with friends when suddenly it was morning. She was in a hotel room – her shirt pulled up, her pants pulled down. “I hurt and knew something bad happened,” the woman said. “Something about this just felt so wrong.”
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The woman, who wishes to remain anonymous, said her emotions spiraled from confusion to clarity. She looked up the definition of rape. That led her to a national sexual assault hotline and later Methodist Women’s Hospital. At the hospital, she accessed the Heidi Wilke SANE/SART program for survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, elder abuse and human trafficking.
“I felt very vulnerable but also felt taken care of from the beginning,” she said.
Providers With Passion
Stories like this unfold daily in the Omaha area, and Methodist’s growing SANE/SART program is a leader in providing needed care. Methodist providers saw roughly 350 survivors at its hospitals in Nebraska and Iowa last year.
Jen Tran, Methodist’s SANE/SART Omaha coordinator, said survivors who come to Methodist can expect to be treated by specially trained trauma-informed providers who will listen. “Survivors need to know that they’re heard and believed,” she said. A Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) is a medical professional who is trained to treat survivors and collect evidence. They’re part of a Sexual Assault Response Team (SART) that includes a physician, a survivor advocate and law enforcement. Methodist’s forensic nurses perform SANE/ SART duties on call in addition to their regular nursing assignments. They’re passionate providers who feel compelled to help someone during what is likely the most traumatic experience of their life. Shelley Hultman, BSN, RN, was inspired to become a forensic nurse after she was sexually assaulted in college. She described treating survivors as “almost therapeutic.” “I absolutely love being there at their worst, building them back up and letting them know it’s not their fault – that they can fight this battle,” she said. Lauren Awe, BSN, RN, SANE-P, agreed. “I love being the person to say, ‘You are not alone.’”
Taking Back Control
“Survivors should know that they’re in charge of the exam,” said Jill Ferguson, MSN, RN, SANE/SART coordinator at Methodist Jennie
Edmundson Hospital in Council Bluffs. “That’s key, because it’s possibly the first time they’ve regained such control since the assault.” During an exam, a nurse will ask about medical history and collect evidence like clothes, fingernail and oral swabs, and bodily fluid. They may also photograph injuries. The process can take several hours, though the nurse can go at the pace most comfortable for the survivor. Treatment may include preventative measures for sexually transmitted diseases or unwanted pregnancy. Forensic nurses offer emotional support to survivors and may later provide expert testimony during legal proceedings. One of the hardest parts is often not knowing what happens to survivors after they leave the hospital, said Liz Dunn, BSN, RN. “You see them at the low, and you hope they can regain footing in their life.” “Coming in for an exam is a really, really tough time for these survivors,” added Carla Idrees, BSN, RN. “At the same time, it can be really beautiful. It’s one of their first steps in healing.”
Jill Ferguson, MSN, RN, is a forensic nurse at Methodist Jennie Edmundson Hospital.
Thankful for Methodist
A year later, the survivor said she’s not thankful she was assaulted. But she is thankful for what’s come of it. Her experience with Methodist’s SANE/SART program took her to the Methodist Community Health Clinic at 26th and Douglas streets, where she received follow-up care and a referral for counseling. She still goes to therapy and sees Sandra Leaders, APRN, for her primary care. “It’s completely changed everything for me,” the survivor said. “It’s just really nice that they care about how you are physically, but they also care about your mental health. I just always feel like I’ve been treated with respect.”
What to Know About Methodist’s SANE/SART Program Who can I call for help?
Help is available 24/7 at (402) 354-4424 or (712) 396-6111.
What if I don’t want to report the offender to law enforcement?
Nebraska law gives some survivors time to decide whether they want to pursue legal action. Where can I go for an exam? The law allows adult sexual assault survivors Exams are offered in the emergency departments to have evidence collected and stored for up at Methodist Women’s Hospital and Methodist to 20 years without reporting the assault to law Hospital in Omaha and Methodist Jennie enforcement. This does not apply to minors or in Edmundson Hospital in Council Bluffs. cases where the survivor is severely injured. Iowa has a similar anonymous reporting provision. When should I seek help? In most cases, survivors should go to the hospital for a forensic exam within 120 hours, or five days, of an assault. Changing clothes, showering or bathing can damage evidence but shouldn’t prevent you from pursuing an exam.
Who or what else may be involved in the exam?
Methodist works with advocates from the Women’s Center for Advancement, Heartland
Family Service and other organizations, such as those on college campuses. Advocates offer support and guidance to survivors and often serve as first responders. Methodist also uses technology like the Cortexflo – a high-definition camera, computer system and light – to help collect evidence. Methodist was the first health care system in Omaha with this cutting-edge technology.
To watch a video and learn more about Methodist’s SANE/SART efforts, visit bestcaretoday.com.
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Care navigator Kathy Sindelar, BSN, RN, works with dozens of heart failure and COPD patients.
CARE NAVIGATORS
Go the Extra Mile Story by Patrick Smith
Tom Lowndes is fighting heart failure, but he’s quick to tell you about the team in his corner.
As a care navigator, Sindelar is essentially an on-call partner for patients as they face the challenges of managing their conditions and navigating the complex world of health care.
It includes his cardiologist, Joseph Ayoub, MD. There’s also the staff at the Methodist Jennie Edmundson Hospital Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation clinic.
Every step of the way, Sindelar has been a constant for Tom: from his diagnosis at the hospital in January to every followup cardiology appointment at Methodist Physicians Clinic Council Bluffs. Having that personal advocate as part of his care team has been invaluable.
But the key point of contact, Tom said, is Kathy Sindelar, BSN, RN.
“I’m just totally impressed with the doctor and nurse relationships that I’ve had through
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this experience,” Tom said. “They’re very practical. They’re very personable. They’re available.”
Serious Goals, Personal Touch
The Methodist Physicians Clinic Heart and Lung Wellness Program began in the summer of 2016 with four nurses, known as care navigators, focusing on two groups of patients: those with heart failure or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, commonly known as COPD.
going. She’s very concerned. And I always tell her I appreciate everything she does.” It was the latest meeting in a relationship that dates to the beginning of the program. Don called Swartz and Dr. Dehning part of his “support group,” and he said he especially appreciates their frank discussions. “You just want somebody to look at you and tell you the truth,” he said. This spring the couple and Swartz started discussing hospice. That, too, is part of the effort to help patients best manage their conditions.
Care navigator Laura Swartz, RN, checks Don White’s blood pressure during an appointment. “It’s crucial for their well-being to not go back into the hospital or the emergency department,” said Laurie O’Byrne, MS, BSN, RN, Methodist Physicians Clinic’s administrator for Population Health and Patient Experience. “Everything that we can do to manage their disease at home or where they’re most comfortable, where they can maintain their independence, that’s a win for the patient.” The program has grown to six nurses working in Omaha and Council Bluffs. Each navigator works with about 100 patients from across the region – from Fremont to Red Oak. A patient’s introduction to the program often begins during a hospitalization. They’ll meet with a navigator who explains the program, identifies the patient’s needs and challenges, and starts the process of educating them on their condition. The goal is to provide a smooth transition upon discharge and set up a patient for better long-term results. The relationship isn’t temporary – it can span years. “It makes them feel like somebody is going the extra mile and providing The Meaning of Care,” said Terry Meidlinger, BSN, RN, a care navigator who works with patients at Methodist Hospital and Methodist Physicians Clinic Heart Consultants at Westroads Office Park.
Communication Is Key
A care navigator also attends cardiology and pulmonology appointments with a patient, offering support and continued education. But it’s the contact between appointments that can reap some of the greatest results. Navigators are always working the phones. They check in on patients monthly, weekly or more often, then consult with their doctors. Their calls often lead to over-the-phone
Don started hospice care in May. Days before he died, he called Swartz to tell her one final time how much her care meant to him. Dr. Dehning also called to let Don know he was thinking of him.
adjustments of diuretic drugs for heart failure patients or coaching on how to manage aggravated COPD symptoms. Patients and their caregivers are also encouraged to call the navigators with questions.
“This is what we do,” Swartz said. “It’s not just the outcome, but the whole journey. And Don and I and Dr. Dehning have all been on that journey.”
“They like having that connection. I think there’s a lot of comfort in knowing that if they can’t get answers any other way, they have us to call,” said Laura Swartz, RN, who sees patients at the Westroads clinic.
Impacts Large and Small
Navigators also communicate with local pharmacies, home health services, and doctors and specialists outside Methodist. “The work they do for patients is tremendously beneficial,” said cardiologist Michael Dehning, MD, who is based in the Westroads clinic. “They put in the extra effort to identify what needs to be done.”
There Throughout the Journey
On a recent morning, Swartz called a patient with heart failure and COPD to check in. Things were going OK for Don White, so she reminded him and his wife, Jean, about his upcoming cardiology appointment. But later that day, during a home health visit, a nurse noticed Don was more short of breath than usual and had rapidly gained weight, a sign of fluid retention.
Back in Council Bluffs, Tom has seen tremendous results since his diagnosis. His weight is down, his breathing has improved, he’s exercising daily, and his eating habits have been “revolutionized.” Plenty of credit, he said, goes to Sindelar. Whether it’s big health changes like Tom has seen or simply answering a patient’s question, Sindelar is proud of what the navigator program has been able to accomplish. “I think it’s rewarding to see that you’re making a difference,” she said. “I’m here for the patients and want them to have the best outcome, stay out of the hospital and feel the best they can.” Said Tom: “I want to get well and stay well, so I do what she says. She is that person who has been a subtle reminder of all the things I need to do to improve.”
The nurse contacted Swartz, who quickly set up an appointment to see Don the next day. About 40 minutes after Don arrived to see Swartz, he was finishing an IV treatment that likely prevented a longer, costlier hospital stay. Jean was relieved and thankful for Swartz’s role in getting Don seen so quickly. “Your life is prolonged with a nurse like her,” Jean said. “She keeps things
Tom Lowndes
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Everybody Needs Somebody WATCHING THEIR BACK Story by Jessica Gill
Dusten Olds began seeing dermatologist Scott DeBates, MD, for full-body skin exams at age 30.
When he thinks back to his childhood, Dusten Olds, 43, admits: “I basically lived outside.” He has fond memories of playing sports outdoors and occasional boating trips. He even recalls a few sunburns, because when it came to sunscreen, “I remember having it and
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wearing it, but I don’t know how much it was really stressed.”
His first full-body skin exam was in 2006. He returned the following year for another routine check. He nearly walked away scot-free.
What the blue-eyed and lighter-haired structural engineer can’t remember is what exactly compelled him to start seeing dermatologist Scott DeBates, MD, at Methodist Physicians Clinic West Dodge Medical Plaza.
“I almost told him he could stand up – that he was good to go,” Dr. DeBates said. “That’s when he pointed to his leg and asked me, ‘What do you think about this one?’ It was all one color, it had smooth, even borders, so I said, ‘It looks OK. How long have you had it?’ He said, ‘About a month.’”
“It was probably the fact that I have moles all over my body,” Dusten said. “I just figured I should get them checked.”
Dr. DeBates, who specializes in Mohs micrographic surgery, wasted no time. He removed the mole for further evaluation.
An Unforgettable Diagnosis
While much of that appointment remains a blur for Dusten, he’ll never forget that follow-up phone call from Dr. DeBates. “I was at my office. Midday. I was sitting at my desk,” Dusten said. “I answered the phone, and he said, ‘We found cancer.’ Everything just froze.” Dusten had malignant melanoma, a deadly type of skin cancer that develops when melanocytes, the cells that give our skin color, turn cancerous and start to multiply. He took a deep breath before calling his wife, who had given birth to their third child just two weeks prior. At 31 years old, Dusten wondered if his time was growing near. “I wasn’t afraid of dying,” he said. “I was afraid of my kids growing up without a dad. I was afraid of my wife raising them without a husband.” Dusten was immediately referred to James Reilly, MD, a surgical oncologist with Methodist. Dr. Reilly determined that Dusten’s cancer had spread to only one of his sentinel lymph nodes, which are the first in a chain of lymph nodes to collect metastasizing cancer. Finally, there was a glimmer of hope. In May 2007, Dusten began a year of immunotherapy. From that point on, he and his family became increasingly vigilant. “Not only about sunblock,” he said, “but the clothes we’re wearing, the hats we’re wearing, the time of day we’re out. Just anything we can do to minimize our sun exposure.” “And I can’t stress that enough,” Dr. DeBates said. “It’s not just about sunscreen. Sunscreen makes people feel safe. They use it as an excuse to stay in the sun longer. If sunscreen was the fix-all, you’d think that with its invention,
Scott DeBates, MD, stresses the importance of self-checks to all his patients.
Dusten Olds has been cancer-free for 12 years.
we’d have seen a reduction in skin cancer, but we haven’t. We’ve seen an explosion of skin cancer. If you have to be in the sun, yes, use it and reapply it. But I caution everyone against believing it’s a perfect shield.”
Men and Melanoma
More than 190,000 cases of melanoma will be diagnosed this year. While some may consider it a woman’s disease, the majority of people diagnosed with melanoma are white men over 55. And men ages 15 to 39 are more likely to die of melanoma than women of the same ages. “If early detection is key to survival, that statistic tells me that men are not paying as close attention to their skin as women,” Dr. DeBates said. While it’s never a bad idea to schedule a skin exam with a dermatologist, “don’t assume you’ve done your duty,” Dr. DeBates added. “You need to look. You’re the one who’s right there. Look at what you can and get a friend or family member to look at the spots you can’t see, like your back. Everybody needs somebody watching their back.” While those with lighter hair, skin and eyes are most at risk for developing melanoma, he urges everyone to look for changes in the color, size and shape of existing moles. He also stresses awareness of new and developing moles. “Even if you think something might be changing,” Dr. DeBates said. “Get it checked! We routinely work people in to ensure they’re not sitting at home with skin cancer. Don’t wait for my first head-to-toe skin-check availability in six months, because when we’re talking about melanoma, that kind of wait could be devastating.”
In Dusten’s case, the change was a mole that appeared out of nowhere, but he recognized it. And because of that, he’s alive. “I believe I’m here for a reason. I don’t know what that reason is. We’ll find out,” the survivor and now father of five children said. “Maybe we already have.”
More Common Than Melanoma Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are cancers that develop in the upper layers of the skin. Caused by years of accumulated ultraviolet radiation exposure, they tend to develop on areas of the body that receive the most sun, such as the face, hands and forearms. Close to 3 million basal and squamous cell cases will be diagnosed this year, and most of the time, the recommended treatment is surgical. Unfortunately, surgical removal of tissue in such cosmetically sensitive areas can result in scarring and disfigurement. “Basal cell carcinomas are the most common and least deadly,” Dr. DeBates said. “Can these cancers become deadly? Yes, somebody, somewhere wins the anti-lottery. But it’s not very likely when caught early.” Squamous cell carcinomas are not quite as common as basal cell cancers and can pose a greater danger for metastasis. Like melanoma, early detection of these cancers is key. Dr. DeBates commonly tells his patients: “Early detection of basal and squamous cell carcinoma leads to a smaller scar. Early detection of melanoma leads to a longer life.”
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Katie Honz, MD, performs bilateral breast reconstruction on Amanda Nelson.
Reconstructing
WHAT CANCER TOOK AWAY Story by Jessica Gill
There she was. Under the precision of surgeons and bright lights in a Methodist Hospital operating room.
A Proactive Attempt
“A double mastectomy,” she said confidently. “Just to avoid that diagnosis.” But her plans were put on hold. In 2018, Amanda’s mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. She later tested positive for the same BRCA2 mutation. “This whole time I assumed it was coming from my dad’s side,” Amanda said. “You could not have convinced me otherwise.”
Amanda shares more than just a home with her mother, Terry, and 5-year-old daughter, Sawyer. The trio share a bond strengthened by disease.
Terry opted for a double mastectomy and breast reconstruction – a precursor to something she and her daughter never saw coming.
Amanda Nelson, 40, had planned to be there one day, but as a means of preventing cancer – not treating it.
Their story starts with a BRCA gene test. Amanda knew of a strong breast cancer history on her father’s side and wanted to know her risk.
Eight months after her mother’s diagnosis, Amanda received the same. A tumor was discovered in her right breast following an MRI. A biopsy confirmed it was cancer.
As her surgical team removed both breasts, her plastic surgeon stood by. Katie Honz, MD, with Methodist Physicians Clinic 192Dodge, was about to begin rebuilding a part of Amanda’s body that made her feel complete.
She tested positive for a BRCA2 mutation in 2017, meaning she had about a 69% chance of developing breast cancer. She had to do something.
“I just blanked out,” Amanda said. “The whole world just stopped for a minute.”
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The procedure she wanted was now the procedure she needed.
Reconstructive Surgery
It was cool and cloudy on the day of Amanda’s surgery, but the entire operating room staff lit up when her pathology results were announced. Amanda’s sentinel lymph nodes, which were removed for testing, showed no signs of cancer. No further testing was needed, and Dr. Honz – the surgeon who performed Terry’s reconstruction just weeks prior – was cleared to begin. Staff removed the surgical instrument table that Methodist surgeons Paul Amanda Nelson, left, hopes her daughter never has to Kolkman, MD, and Jeffrey Carson, MD, experience what she and her mother have endured. worked from to perform Amanda’s double mastectomy. A new table, with for the expander and, in the end, sterile instruments and supplies, was brought helps create a more natural-looking breast. forth to avoid the transfer of any potentially cancerous cells back to Amanda’s body. Once in place, Amanda’s expanders were filled with air. Lighter than saline, air puts less pressure Dr. Honz began irrigating Amanda’s chest on the incision initially, which leads to a smoother cavities with three types of antibiotics – the healing process. same solution Amanda’s round-shaped tissue expanders were packaged in. Those expanders, or temporary inflatable pockets, are needed to stretch the breast tissue in preparation for implants. Before inserting the expanders into Amanda’s chest, Dr. Honz wrapped them in processed tissue derived from cadaver skin. According to Dr. Honz, “it’s one of the biggest innovations in breast reconstruction.” This type of tissue not only helps with a less painful recovery but also provides more support
“That air will slowly leak out and eventually be replaced with saline,” Dr. Honz explained. “But it helps the patient mentally to wake up to a little volume, as opposed to waking up completely flat.” Fluorescence imaging then allowed Dr. Honz to assess blood flow after indocyanine green dye was injected into Amanda’s body. Her blood vessels – illuminated by the dye – were displayed on a screen, showing Dr. Honz that her patient’s tissue was healthy enough to continue reconstruction. “Before this technology, you’d have to just judge how the skin looked,” she said. “This helps us prevent death of tissue and allows us to preserve as much skin as possible.” She perfected the look of Amanda’s chest by trimming a small amount of skin before suturing her incisions. The surgeon’s mouth was covered by a mask, but her eyes seemed to smile. The procedure had gone flawlessly.
Not for Everyone Lori Fuchs, certified mastectomy fitter at MECC, is proud to offer patients an alternative to reconstruction.
As she awaits her permanent implants, Amanda still believes that for her, “reconstruction was a no-brainer.”
“I like how my body looks with breasts,” she said. “I honestly feel like I would have to figure out who I am again without them.” It’s a big part of why Dr. Honz became a plastic and reconstructive surgeon. “You can make a big difference in someone’s recovery,” she said. “I may not be treating the cancer, but I’m definitely treating the patient and their emotional well-being.” But even Dr. Honz admits that reconstruction is not for everyone. She, along with Lori Fuchs, a certified mastectomy fitter at Methodist Estabrook Cancer Center (MECC), are proud to work for a health system that honors that, providing alternative options like custom breast prostheses. “It’s one more aspect of our Meaning of Care,” Fuchs said. “We want to offer whatever enhances the patient’s quality of life.” Amanda is certain reconstruction will do just that. Terry feels the same. And if young Sawyer – who has a 50% chance of inheriting the same BRCA2 mutation – has learned anything from this experience, Amanda hopes it’s this: “No matter what happens, you don’t give up. You work through your issues, you face them head on, and you ask for help when you need it. Most importantly? You find your tribe. And dang it, you keep them with you.”
To watch the video, visit bestcaretoday.com.
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HER
Commitment to Community NEVER WAVERED
Story by Patrick Smith
As the region experienced historic flooding, Rachael Nielsen, APRN, went above and beyond to care for her neighbors.
Phone calls began pouring in as floodwaters surrounded Fremont on Friday, March 15. That was the day the
city became a virtual island – and the day many within
the community began to see
Floodwaters never did reach the hospital. Patient evacuation was never necessary. But several stories emerged, all with common threads: compassion, dedication and a commitment to The Meaning of Care during a time of unthinkable tragedy. Among the heroes was a nurse practitioner whose devotion to her community won’t soon be forgotten.
“The Right Thing to Do”
Methodist Fremont Health as
As Rachael Nielsen, APRN, drove to her home outside of Dodge on Wednesday, March 13, she knew there was little chance of returning to work in Fremont on Friday.
As the natural disaster unfolded across the region, staff members quickly realized that this crisis was much bigger than what they saw within their own walls. They needed to stretch beyond them.
Road closures and detours caused by flooding turned her normally 35-minute trip into a threehour journey. Nielsen, a nurse practitioner with Methodist Fremont Health, also staffs the system’s clinic in Dodge on Thursday mornings – the village’s only direct access to health care.
more than just a hospital.
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By Thursday night, it was clear getting to Fremont the next day would be impossible. She made up her mind: She’d open the Dodge clinic instead. “It just felt like the right thing to do,” she said. “I knew that the potential of evacuating North Bend was pretty real, and there was nowhere to get to for any medical care. We were already cut off from Fremont. We were already cut off from West Point and Norfolk, except for emergency vehicles. I was pretty sure I was the only health care provider around.”
Emergency Support
Nielsen arrived at 8:30 a.m. and by 9 saw her first patient, who volunteered to post signs around town saying the clinic was open. More patients followed, mostly for minor issues and medical advice. By simply being at the clinic, Nielsen provided a critical backstop for the community – should an emergency arise. And one did.
Early in the afternoon, Nielsen got a call. A nearby volunteer rescue squad had picked up a patient with chest pains and needed her help. They weren’t sure how serious the patient’s condition was, but they knew this was no normal transport. “If the roads were open, we would have gone to Fremont,” said Tom Kreikemeier, rescue captain for Snyder Volunteer Fire & Rescue. But the flooding made that 9-mile trip impossible. With ground transport stalled across the region, helicopter teams also were getting backed up with requests.
Rachael Nielsen, APRN, works at Methodist Fremont Health and staffs the Methodist clinic in Dodge once a week.
The plan was to pick up Nielsen for support, then navigate “back routes” about 17 miles to the small hospital in West Point, Kreikemeier said.
The squad made a call to Norfolk, where Faith Regional Health Services has a catheterization laboratory and is equipped to care for patients with heart conditions. Despite dangerous travel conditions, the roads to Norfolk were safe for emergency vehicles.
When the squad arrived in Dodge, Nielsen climbed aboard and began monitoring the patient’s heart. She immediately saw signs of damage. “Once we got him hooked up, I could see that it didn’t look good,” she said. Said Kreikemeier: “She looked at the monitor and said, ‘Holy crap. This guy needs a cath lab now. We need to go to Norfolk.’”
Norfolk Pilger
With every moment precious, they took off. Nielsen rode along to help “if something went south,” she said. They stopped 30 miles later in Pilger to transfer the patient to a waiting squad from Norfolk.
Methodist Fremont Health clinic location
Columbus
Neighbors in Need
Nielsen returned from the ambulance run in the midafternoon, but she knew there was work to be done.
West Point
Dodge
“It was great, great support,” Kreikemeier said of Nielsen’s efforts. “That’s what it’s kind of like in small towns.”
Snyder
North Bend Fremont
With her 14-year-old daughter, Madeline, she gathered basic medical supplies from the clinic and the pair headed to Snyder. There they set up a first aid station at a shelter for evacuees from nearby North Bend. They provided basic care, treating a few scrapes and giving out
aspirin. Nielsen stayed until about 9 p.m. and offered to be on call through the weekend. Her busy Friday was behind her, but Nielsen wasn’t through. She usually has Mondays off, but with the roads open, she didn’t hesitate to head to Fremont. She knew her coworkers at the clinic could use her help. “Nobody asked me. I just said, ‘I’m coming in.’”
Care During Crisis
Nielsen’s actions are just one of countless examples of Methodist Fremont Health staff members going above and beyond during the flooding. President and CEO Brett Richmond saw much of it and couldn’t be more proud. “In the 10 years I’ve been here, the impact that we have on the health of our community has never been more evident or visible,” he said. That same commitment to community is what drove Nielsen to step up without hesitation. Caring for her neighbors is part of her identity. “Not very many people get a chance to change the world,” she said, “but there’s a lot of us out there who can change our little corner of the world.”
For more powerful stories of care during the flooding, visit bestcaretoday.com/fremont.
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Investing in
Dreams – and Care Natalie Jones, a nurse coordinator at Methodist Hospital, is working to take her career – and the care she’s able to provide – to the next level. She’s currently pursuing her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree at Nebraska Methodist College (NMC) – the Josie Harper Campus. “Growing up, I told my sister I’m either going to be a nurse or a doctor someday. Now, I’ll be both,” Jones said. She’s on track to earn her doctorate in August 2020, seven years after she graduated from NMC and began working at Methodist Hospital. For Jones, becoming a nurse was a tribute of sorts, a positive that sprang from incredible pain. At the age of 18, she lost both of her parents to separate illnesses. “Being in the hospital with my parents, I saw the nursing staff and the great care they gave them and how they supported my sister and me,” she said. “The care that I received was something I wanted to give back to others.”
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Methodist Hospital Nurse Coordinator Natalie Jones, RN, speaks with patient Harriette Dee Tallman.
Methodist Hospital Foundation and its generous donors have been supporting Jones throughout her educational journey and easing her financial burden, most recently with two Carolyn Scott “Spirit of Excellence” Scholarships in 2017 and 2019. “This latest scholarship means no financial stress during my last year of DNP school, so I can focus on my boards and my clinicals,” Jones said. This year alone, Methodist Hospital Foundation will help provide more than $2 million in scholarships. Almost 660 scholarships and grants were awarded in 2018 to current and future health care workers. “Without scholarships, many of the students simply would not be able to attend school,” said Elizabeth Borisow, a Methodist Hospital Foundation philanthropy officer. A majority of NMC students – 63% – receive grants or scholarships. Most recipients go on to become Methodist employees. “When donors support scholarships, they’re not only helping students. They’re also impacting the entire community,” Borisow said. “There’s a nationwide nursing shortage, and scholarships help to address that growing need.” In the final leg of her doctoral work, Jones is energized about her future while ever mindful of her past: “It makes me the nurse I am today – and the person.” To learn more, visit methodisthospitalfoundation.org.
methodisthospitalfoundation.org Helen O. Fasanya-Uptagraft, MD Benjamin S. Hall, MD Kimberly S. Harmon, MD Grant F. Hutchins, MD Kathryn E. Hutchins, MD Named for the year in which Methodist William C. Livingston, DO Hospital was established, the 1891 Thomas R. McGinn, MD Society recognizes the current giving of Matthew M. McMahon, MD John C. Mitchell II, MD loyal donors who support the programs Trevor J. Pearson, MD and projects of Methodist Hospital Kyle D. Rose, DO Foundation. We thank the following Edwin C. Schafer, MD Michael E. Schafer, MD friends who made a gift between Marc A. Scheer, DO January 1, 2019 and May 31, 2019. Bradley J. Schroeder, MD Brian W. Ward, MD Founders: Dr. & Mrs. Charles E. Olson Gifts & pledges $100,000 and greater Omaha Fashion Week Dr. C.C. & Mabel L. Criss Memorial Foundation Omaha Lancers Hockey Foundation Verna Mae Jessen Cyndy Peacock The Lozier Foundation The David Spence Cancer Foundation Weitz Family Foundation
The 1891 Society
Leaders:
Gifts & pledges $50,000 - $99,999 Renee & Mark Boyer JE Dunn Family Foundation The Kim Foundation MCL Construction Pepsi Cola Bottling Company
Guardians:
Gifts & pledges $10,000 - $49,999 Hollis & Helen Baright Foundation Dr. & Mrs. Kenneth P. Barjenbruch Nancy Graham Cagle & Brad Cagle Electric Company of Omaha Steve & Brenda Goeser Methodist Medical Staff Dr. & Mrs. John P. O’Gara Paul & Stephanie Pettett Scare Away Cancer Susan G. Komen Great Plains Dr. & Mrs. C. Brent Wakefield
Protectors:
Gifts & pledges $5,000 - $9,999 American National Bank Dr. & Mrs. Emilio A. Arispe The estate of Fred & Marcia Backer Jessica N. Bracken, MD Bridges Trust Management Dr. & Mrs. John Cannella Susan J. Dennis Sandy & Kate Dodge Dennis Eden Jeff & Keri Francis Dianne L. Fuhs Howard & Rhonda Hawks Susan & Scott Hensman Jerry J. Hoban Pamela J. Hoesing Dr. and Mrs. R. Michael Kroeger Wendy & Paul McBride Gary & Kathy McConnell Methodist Physicians Clinic Administration Midwest Gastrointestinal Associates, PC Tyron A. Alli, MD Alexander B. Bernal, MD Douglas E. Brouillette, MD John J. Cannella III, MD Jason J. Cisler, MD Rebecca A. Ehlers, MD Joshua T. Evans Sr., MD
8701 WEST DODGE ROAD, SUITE 450 OMAHA, NE 68114 (402) 354-4825
Charles A. Ternent, MD Alan G. Thorson, MD Zachary H. Torgersen, MD Deborah M. Conley Bruce G. Cook Dr. & Mrs. Bradley B. Copple Dr. & Mrs. Andrew M. Coughlin Council of Independent Nebraska Colleges Foundation Sheri Cunningham Susan K. Davis Dr. & Mrs. Euclid R. deSouza Kip & Annette Dillon Tom & Sue Eiserman Dave & RyAnne Elsesser Todd & Cathy Engle John & Shari Flowers Ruth L. Freed, PhD Viola Gottschalk Todd & Heidi Grages Denise & John Green Dr. & Mrs. John A. Haggstrom Lilia L. Hansen Friends: Leone Harlan Gifts & pledges $1,000 - $4,999 Jennifer I. Harm Jason & Josie Abboud Academy of Architecture for Health Foundation Susana I. Harrington Dr. & Mrs. Herbert A. Hartman Jr. Michael & Julie Ahrens HDR Anderson Partners Joshua A. Hite Anesthesia West, PC Dr. Kristen Hoffman & Gary Hoffman Chad Bauerly, MD Kurt D. Hoffman, DVM Monte Christo, MD Sandra L. Hoffman Mark D’Agostino, MD Holly Huerter-Morgan & Jeff Morgan Jill Faraci, MD Drs. Grant & Kathryn Hutchins Tad Freeburg, MD HyVee Wine & Spirits Michael Grubb, MD Tracy Isenberg Carl Heine, MD Benjamin J. Jaworski Gregg Hirz, MD Johnson Controls Stephen Hosman, MD Rev. & Mrs. Daniel R. Johnston Kent Hultquist, MD Henry Kammandel Jr. Kent Hutton, MD Mary E. Keitel Paul Jacobsen, MD Kiewit Building Group John Lindsey III, MD Bob & Susan Knapp Robert Moore, MD Charles & Anna Knapp Memorial Trust Thomas Ohrt, MD Roger & Marla Kniewel John Peterson, MD Gail Koch Kelli Peterson, MD David & Michelle Koraleski Hap Pocras, MD Jack & Stephanie Koraleski Douglas Rennels, MD Kathryn Koslosky Chris Robertson, MD Dr. & Mrs. Richard A. Kutilek Josh Smith, MD Steve & Deb Landon Thomas Soma, MD Lisa A. Lappe J. Kenneth Tiojanco, MD Matthew P. Latacha, MD Mark Wilson, MD Michelle Leitner Monte & Kristi Anthis Drs. Patrick & Kirsten Leu Dr. Deanna Armstrong & Dr. Thad Woods Rhonda K. Lichtenberg Baird Holm LLP Dr. & Mrs. Robert H. Lindau Beckenhauer Construction Dr. & Mrs. Richard Lund Amy Beethe Shirley A. Mackie Fred & Sally Bekins Foundation Sean McMahon & Tracy Madden-McMahon Bo & Elizabeth Borisow Jerry & Mary Mahoney Neil & Gail Boston Gerald J. Manchester Paul & Teri Bruening Linda & Mark Mann Wendy L. Buchholz Donald R. Matson Debra K. Campbell Cynde McCall Duane & Deb Carlson Richard R. McIllece Nora & Daniel Chesire Mary E. McNulty Arielle A. Clark Juli & Kevin Meador Sarah M. Cockle Methodist Hospitalists Jan Cole Jocelyn Bailey, MD Colon & Rectal Surgery Priyanka Borah, MD Jennifer S. Beaty, MD Tyler Brinkman, MD Garnet J. Blatchford, MD Russ Cowles, MD Brian M. Sadowski, MD Joseph Evans, MD M. Shashidharan, MD
Ben Fangman, DO Jamie Fleckenstein, DO Heidi Hausmann, MD Brian Hollis, MD Katie Hoppes, MD Ty Huebert, MD Bryan Knipe, MD Andrea Marsh, MD Katie McInerney, MD Matt Miller, MD Heidi Moser, MD Eric Rodrigo, MD Rebecca Runge, MD Abby Shiffermiller, MD Michael Skoch, MD Joseph Stolp, DO Kendra Swanson, MD Brian & Mollie Miles Mary Milota Dr. David & Maria Minderman Joe & Cindy Mirfield Karen S. Mitchell Michael & Jan Morgan Ted & Julie Murray Neonatal Care PC Khalid Awad, MD Brady Kerr, MD David Minderman, MD Chinyere Oarhe, MD Lynn O’Hanlon, MD Thomas Seidel, MD Drs. Lindsay & Matthew Northam Jacqueline K. Parmenter Dr. & Mrs. Jeffrey A. Passer Shana M. Peper, MD Diane Persing DeAnna Persinger Gerard Pfannenstiel Ryan & Carrie Phillips Pinnacle Bancorp Dr. & Mrs. Thomas J. Rankin Dr. & Mrs. Neal Ratzlaff John & Margaret Rebensdorf Drs. James & Rebecca Reilly Chris & Sharlon Rodgers Jon & Linda Roeder Ron & Sue Rohlfs Rotella’s Italian Bakery Debbie L. Russell Dr. & Mrs. William R. Schlichtemeier William & Sharon Schneidewind Judith A. Scott, DO Security National Bank of Omaha Margaret E. Spencer Drs. David & Rachel Stearnes Lois Stebbins Hank & Jodeen Sterba Stryker Sustainability Solutions Mitchell L. Swanson Stacey Tams TD Ameritrade L. B. “Red” & Jann Thomas Tommie & Melodee Thompson The Vetter Foundation Samuel Watson, MD Dr. & Mrs. Ronald L. Wax Michael & Meg Whaley Dr. & Mrs. Thomas J. White Mark O. Wilhelm Barbara & George Williams Ann M. Wordekemper Our friends who wish to remain anonymous.
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Community partners are the strength of the Caring for Our Communities program.
Care Begins With
Knowing Where to Turn A program led by Methodist
Jennie Edmundson Hospital helps people with complex
and often chronic diseases
who don’t have insurance, are
underinsured, have behavioral health issues, cannot afford a primary care doctor or simply don’t have one.
Many of these people come to the Methodist Jennie Edmundson Hospital Emergency Department for care, but it isn’t always the best place to serve their recurrent needs. That’s when the Caring for Our Communities (CFOC) program steps in. Created in 2012, CFOC connects people with community health
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and behavioral health “coaches” who will help them find appropriate health care, access existing community resources, obtain healthrelated education and affordable medications, and navigate the health care exchange. CFOC is based at Methodist Jennie Edmundson Hospital and is available throughout Western Iowa at no cost. With the addition of a community health worker, people at risk due to the impact of social, economic or environmental factors now have an advocate who will help determine how to better address each individual’s needs. Philanthropy is the cornerstone of CFOC. “We could not function without the generous financial support of the communities we serve,” said Lorrie Reddish, CFOC program director. “It enables us to provide a growing number of services to an ever-expanding population in need.” Each year, more than 30 key stakeholders and community partners take part in the CFOC effort to link under-resourced individuals with available local resources.
Lead organizations include: • All Care (Community) Health Center • Connections Area Agency on Aging • Heartland Family Service • Horizon Behavioral Health Agency • Iowa Legal Aid • Jennie Edmundson Hospital Foundation • Methodist Jennie Edmundson Hospital • Methodist Physicians Clinic • Pottawattamie County Public Health Department “The people helped through Caring for Our Communities are often the most vulnerable, simply because they don’t know where to turn,” said Tara Slevin, vice president of Volunteer Services and Foundation for Methodist Jennie Edmundson Hospital. “Thanks to the financial support we receive, CFOC will not only point them in the right direction but also help them turn their lives around.” To learn more, visit www.jehfoundation.org.
933 EAST PIERCE STREET COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA 51503 (712) 396-6040
jehfoundation.org Barton Solvents, Inc. Deb Bass Grateful Donors Beacon Vacations LLC Black Hills Energy Bonnie Bolte A gift to Jennie Edmundson Hospital Foundation Drs. Scott and Elisa Bomgaars is a meaningful way to create a lasting legacy to Chad Taylor Excavating Ed and Emma Chance ensure the hospital will continue to offer hope Lora Cobbs Lisa Coldewey and healing for generations to come. We thank Corporate Caddie Janitorial Amy Crawford the following friends for their gifts between Dr. Michael and Abbie Crawford January 2018 and April 2019. Crystal Forge D & D Construction $25,000 and greater Grant and Kate Dean Connections Area Agency on Aging, Inc. Drs. Anand and Pooja Deshmukh JEH Auxiliary and Gift Shop Dr. Gary and Nadine DeVoss Marcia A. Hastings Estate Dodge Trust Methodist Jennie Edmundson Doll Distributing LLC Hospital Medical Staff Candice Eggerss Susan G. Komen for the Cure Carol and Kim Elder The Hawks Family Philanthropy Fund Rita Epperson Richard Graeme Fraternal Order of Police The Lozier Foundation Council Bluffs Lodge #1 Frontier Savings Bank Stacy Funk $5,000-$24,999 Richard and Wanda Gibson Availa Bank Carolyn Good Barnhart Press Dr. Aashutosh Goswami Bill and Connie Barrier The Graham Group Steven and Kathy Baumert Grease Monkey Bluffs Pain Management & Jason Gylling Medical Anesthesia Associates Brad Hansen Dr. Tom and Becky Brandt Kevin and Karen Hansen Dr. and Mrs. Thomas Cheatle Scott and Susan Hartman The Daily Nonpareil Peggy Helget Diagnostic Radiology, P.C. HGM Associates Inc. Tami Doll Holland Basham Architects Electric Company of Omaha Diane L. Hughes Heartland Oncology & Hematology LLP Iowa Western Community College Heartland Properties, Inc. JE Dunn Construction Company Gilbert M. and Martha H. Hitchcock Foundation Tammy Johnson Hoy-Kilnoski Funeral Home & Crematory Dr. Shawn and Amanda Jones Donna and Tom Hubbell Ed and Linda Kemp Hy-Vee, Inc. Rick and Jill Killion Jason and Shari James Dr. Dan and Pam Kinney Kinseth Hospitality Companies Pete and Karen Krause Jack and Stephanie Koraleski Dr. Alan and Deborah Kricsfeld Law Offices of Gallner & Pattermann Dr. Barry and Barbara Kricsfeld Midwest Gastrointestinal Associates PC Loess Hills Harley-Davidson Mutual of Omaha Malvern Bank John and Anne Nelson Dr. Jose and Caryl Martinez Noddle Companies McMullen Ford Pathlab LTD Methodist Health System Pepsico Foundation Methodist Jennie Edmundson Hospital E. F. & Sylvia Schildberg Foundation Methodist Physicians Clinic Dr. John and Leslie Southard Dr. Philip and Jane Meyer Warren Distribution MidContinent Trucking Dr. Michael and Mary Zlomke Midlands Living Center LLP Midstates Bank $1,000-$4,999 Miller Orthopaedic Affiliates, P.C. Adult Pediatric Urology & Urogynecology Glen and June Mitchell American Direct Jeffrey Morgan and Holly Huerter Morgan American National Bank Ed and Fran Morris Ron and Pat Andersen Dr. Sumit Mukherjee Mark and Joni Anderson My Pediatric Dentist Anderson Partners National Concrete Cutting, Inc. Angels Care Home Health Dr. Evan and Rebecca Neesen Rex and Patricia Anthony Keith and Kristy Nickolisen Dr. Robert and Vicki Armbruster Chad Taylor and Mandi Nielsen Availa Foundation Dr. Nicole Nolan Dr. Joseph Ayoub Terry and William Oldenburg Dr. Thomas and Susan Baer Olsson Associates Baird Holm LLP T.J. and Laura Pattermann James and Karen Baker
Rita Pierson Pottawattamie County Community Foundation Dr. Lori Platt and Mr. Matt Rase Lorrie Reddish Dr. Evelyn and Alan Reher Dr. Michael and Annette Romano Beau Saar Irven Saar Jane Scherle Frank and Cindy Schmader Valerie Seevers Dr. Crystal and Matt Seluk Shared Service Systems Dr. William and Laura Shiffermiller Tara Slevin Teresa Slevin Southwest Iowa Renewable Energy, LLC Specialized Engineering Solutions St. John Lutheran Church Foundation Dr. Rachel and David Stearnes Synchronicity Linda Thomas Kathy and Steve Tisher Peter and Mary Anne Tulipana Tyson Foods, Inc. US Bank Veridian Credit Union Aaron Walter Thomas and Janet Whitson Virginia Whitten Dr. Kent and Shannon Willadsen
$500-$999
Carla Abel Zieg Dr. Patrick and Mrs. Natalie Jean Ahrens Allen and Jo Alsman Diane and Ron Andersen Chris Anderson Arrow Towing, Inc. Dr. Jason Arthur & Dr. Annabel Galva Charles and Tammy Bardon Steven and Kristie Bastron Scott and Lisa Beckman Robin Behlers Rick Benson Gerald Berthold Black Squirrel Aktion of Council Bluffs Tia Brandenburg Rebecca Bussey Marianne Campbell David and Rhonda Clark Sarah Clark Bob and Karen Collins Sarah Colpitts Credit Information of Council Bluffs Sara Crinklaw Rick and Joan Crowl Cutler-O'Neill-Meyer-Woodring Funeral Home Dan Buckelew Trucking Doffin Trucking Inc. Neal Drickey Dr. Randall Duckert Rod and Callie Earlywine Mr. Michael Ellwanger Marilyn Evans Jill Ferguson Lisa Fidone Jeffrey and Marilyn Fife Peter Fink Fisher Building Services, Inc. Jennifer Fletcher Glenwood State Bank Wendi Graham
Rick and Patti Guill Jim's Hauling Patricia Heger Hilltop Animal Hospital Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Sheri Holub Horizon Mental Health Management Carol Horner Dr. Tien-Shew Huang Luann Hughbanks LeAnn Hughes Scott Jensen Michelle and Brian Kaufman Dr. Takashi Kawamitsu Marcia Keith Kirsch Transportation Services Knights of Columbus Andrew and Katie Kyker Carol Lam Kimberly Lammers Leach Camper Sales Ronald Lewis Robert Lookabill Ed and Elma Lynn Katina Mach Donald Matson Cynthia McCall Dr. Jessica McCool Kim and Anne McKeown Medtronics Memory Lane Classics MidAmerican Energy Company Midwest Glass & Glazing, Inc. Mindy Miller Mobilis, Inc. Nebraska Coast, Inc. Jeremy and Ginger Noel Donna Petry Joseph Poore Tom and Dena Potvin Kimberly Dawn Radice Carol Reeder Gregory and Carol Reeder Vince Rew Phillip Rief Jerry Rinne and Jodi Spale Rock Hard Motors, Inc. Dr. Anthony Romano Joan Rostermundt Diane Ryan S & L Sanitation Enterprises Inc. John and Debora Scanlan Courtney Schmid Rodney and Wendy Schultz ServiceMaster of South Central Omaha Clodagh Slevin Crystal Smay Rozan Smith Julie Smith Jim and Robin Spitznagle Theresa Stevens Spencer and Joy Stevens Larry Taylor and Sherry Bills-Taylor Tish's Restaurant Tri-State Electronic Service Inc. Matt and Barb Walsh Warren Weber Fred & Sandy Westphal Teri Wilson and Greg Spencer Women's Christian Association Carol Wood Gary and Barbara Woods Wyman BodyWorx Inc.
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Garden Party Gives
Behavioral Health Services a Boost The Fremont Health Foundation hosted its Spring Garden Party on June 8. The elegant springtime evening was filled with fun, food and philanthropy. More than 300 guests attended the event at Midland University’s Wikert Event Center to support the foundation and honor Tom and Sheryl Thomsen and the Rupert Dunklau Foundation, the 2019 recipients of the Spirit of the Fremont Health Foundation Award. The funds raised at this year’s event will support Behavioral Health services at Methodist Fremont Health. “We have grown significantly since opening our inpatient behavioral health unit in late 2015, and we are continually looking for ways to enhance services for those we care for,” said Dr. John Franzen, medical director of Behavioral Health
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services at Methodist Fremont Health. “We are working on ways to offer more support for patients we care for by increasing access to services and reducing barriers to treatment for those who need it.” Funds will be used to support professional development for providers, recruitment efforts, and advanced mental health and chemical dependency certifications for inpatient and outpatient services. “We are so grateful for all of our sponsors, guests and volunteers who helped us raise nearly $100,000,” said Jennifer Benson, Fremont Health Foundation board president. “One in five adults in the U.S. experiences mental illness, so there’s a good chance every one of us knows someone suffering from some sort of mental health disorder. There’s no shame in seeking help, and I’m so proud to be a part of an organization and community that see the importance of what we’re doing and support Methodist Fremont Health’s mission.” To learn more, visit fremonthealthfoundation.org.
450 EAST 23RD STREET FREMONT, NE 68025 (402) 727-3566
fremonthealthfoundation.org
2019 Fremont Health Foundation High School Scholarship Recipients Fremont Health Foundation Scholarship Kaytlyn Martens Arlington High School, University of South Dakota, Nursing Ashley Uhing Logan View High School, Nebraska Methodist College, Nursing Fremont Health Foundation Impact Scholarship Lexie Proskovec Fremont High School, University of Nebraska at Kearney, Pre-Medicine Miah Vakiner Fremont High School, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Pre-Health Fremont Health Auxiliary Scholarship Lauren Gifford Fremont High School, University of Kansas, Biology on a Pre-Health Track Izzabella Wentz Fremont High School, Creighton University, Biology Methodist Fremont Health Employee Child Scholarship Cole Bures Oakland-Craig High School, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Plant Biology Talon Mues Arlington High School, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Agricultural Engineering Robert & Phyllis Weinberg Memorial Scholarship Lance Myers Bergan High School, Midland University, Psychology
2019 Employee Giving Campaign Thank you to all the employees who generously donated to the employee giving campaign. Together they raised over $41,000! Mehgan Adams Wendy Andersen Jamie Anderson Ruth Anderson Jane Armstrong Karen Baber Debra Baker Teresa Baker Christopher Bales Kimberly Ball Hannah Banks Shannon Bartosh Susan Bartosh Curtis Batten Laura Bayer Susan Bayliff Jacqueline Beaton Doreen Beaudette Elizabeth Belmont Amy Beranek Micaela Best Dixie Biehl Cheryl Bies Kimberly Blackford Katherine Bloch Gay Blomendahl Steven Bomar Debra Bopp Carol Bourek Annie Bowman Nikea Brady Meghan Brichacek Brian Brodd Jill Broekemeier Judy Brooks Jayma Brown Lynn Brown Lisa Burrows Alyssa Burt Stancie Bushlow Maria Calderon Patrick Callaway Denise Cape John Carda Amanda Carlson Amanda Carrier Tracey Cate Sarah Cattlett Rachel Chamberlain Jade Chapman Carolyn Charter Bethany Childers Angel Christ Tammy Chromy Kerrie Church Desa Clark Lisa Clark Brittany Clausen Renee Coates William Contreras
Kiley Cordes Beth Craig Jamie Culver Jennifer Dahlhauser Brian Dalke Bridget Dean Jill Decker Sara Decker Geri Ann Deines Lori Diggins Donna Doernemann Kristina Donner Tonie Duncan Alan Edwards Jennifer Egbers Starla Ehrisman Tara Einspahr Sara Ellis Susan Emanuel Amy Engelmeyer Candie Erickson Kelsey Ernesti Stacey Ernesti Lori Eurek Patricia Evans Mary Exstrom Jennifer Eyler Amy Fachman Ashley Fisher Suzette Flick Bethsabe Flores Andrea Foltz Deborah Frahm Amanda Freeman Sara Fritz Tammy Fujan Brittany Fuller Tara Fullner John Furman Traci Gallatin Dr. Christopher Gartin Angela Gartner Amber Gaston Kiger Jan Gaughran Sarah Gillett Elizabeth Girmus Jill Gossett Shelley Grawe Allison Greene Molly Grimes Cerritos Jenny Gustafson Tanya Hagerbaumer Brenda Halbmaier Mercedes Hammond Joanna Hansen Barbara Hanson Debra Hanson Robyn Harms Kaylee Harter Jolynn Hartman
Christie Hasemann Megan Hayden Cailey Heavican Melissa Heavican Linda Heidemann Collette Heiman Amy Heimann Christopher Hein Carmen Heller Kent Henderson Kimberly Hendricks Cynthia Hermanson Tanya Hernandez Tammy Hill Sharon Hinds Barbara Hines Diane Hines Debra Hitchler Lori Hively Marianne Hodson Sheri Hoetfelker Kendra Holderman Julia Holman Timothy Holmes Amy Holtz Ann Holtz Theresa Homan Kathy Horn Elizabeth Horvatich Jennifer Howard Robert Howard Morgan Huddle Nicholas Hummel Cathy Hunt Sandra Ibarra Debra Ibsen James Issler David Jarman Ann Jenness Susan Jennings Ashley Jensen Mary Jensen Rhonda Jensen Scott Jensen Debra Jerina Kristin Johnsen Beverly Johnson Erica Johnson Karen Johnson Mary Johnson Robert Johnson Elizabeth Jones Cheryl Kavan Melissa Kavan Dr. Gerald Keasling Melinda Kentfield Betty Kermeen Chelsi Kieborz Darrin Kiger Nancy Kincanon Jean Kinnison Julie Kirby Lisa Knoell Sarah Knuppel Kelly Kontor Wendy Kopejtka Launette Kotik Nancy Krueger Kate Kuester Alison Kumm
Jeanene Lambley Dawn Landholm Mary Larson Alexandra Lawless Jennifer Lee June Leland Vicki Lindberg Lisa Long Stephen Lucas Christie Lueck Patricia Mach Sarah Malcom Priscilla Maldonado Kathleen Malm Amber Marolf Chad Marshall Julia Martin Kimberli Martin Bernita Mascher Roni Mauch Shannon McDonald Nichole McMillen Diana Meiergerd James Meiergerd Shannon Meister Bonnie Mensik Tracie Merklinger Amanda Merritt Mary Meysenburg Lori Misfeldt Robert Misfeldt Terese Moore Wendy Moreno Craig Morgan Lanette Morgan Mona Mulholland Tracy Muller Chad Murdock Courtney Murphy Lori Nelsen Shelby Norenberg Holly Nutter Amy O'Daniel Richard Oliva Melissa Overholt Kent Padomek Mark Parks Denise Paulsen Renee Peck Laura Peitzmeier Brittney Perina Angela Perkins Janet Peters Jane Petersen Jessica Peterson Lori Phillips Kristina Pilkenton Candace Pipal Cynthia Pittack Amy Pittman Kellie Pleskac Tracy Preissler Stacie Pruss Shanee Ralls Guadalupe Raya Christina Reeder Tomomi Reeson Jennifer Reichmuth Rachel Reiman Carol Renter Samantha Renter Melissa Reyes
Brett Richmond Stacie Roberts Karen Robinson Brittney Ruiz Connie Ruppert Tami Ruskamp Becky Ruwe Debra Sammons Shelly Sandeen Jane Scheuring Erin Schmidt Tierney Schmidt Alan Schwedhelm Stacy Shafer Niki Shear Renee Sheets Amber Sidney Marcella Skeen Melanie Smith Randall Smrcina Loren Soderling Michael Sokolovsky Karen Sommerer Barbara Sorensen Denise Spilinek Alicia Steinke Wanda Still Connie Stiver Judy Stolz Esteban Suarez Diane Sukstorf Connie Svatora Andrea Svoboda Amanda Sytsma Kelly Talamante Debra Tank Karleen Taylor Nicole Thiesen Kari Throener Bree Tranmer Rachael Tullis Sue Tyrakoski Mary Ustohal Jennifer Vacha Deann Varilek Sara Vech Lashara Verner Susan Virgil Bill Vobejda Pamela Volpi Sharon Von Seggern Mark Voss Kathleen Wagner Lisa Walla Jan Walraven Sandra Wardman Lori Wehenkel Keith Weinhold Jennifer Werner Charity Westphal Christina White Kimberly Whitemore Ethan Wimer Linda Wimer Meloney Windhusen Ralyne Wolf Rachelle Woods Leslie Worth Benjamin Wotipka Megan Wragge Jill Wulf
Summer 2019
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Nonprofit U.S. Postage PAID Omaha, NE Permit No. 563
825 S. 169th Street Omaha, NE 68118
Summer 2019, Omaha Edition Volume 9 – Issue 2 The Meaning of Care magazine is published by Methodist Health System Marketing & Public Relations. Free subscriptions are available by emailing your request to bestcare@nmhs.org.
Senior Director of Marketing Director of Public Relations Writer/Associate Editor Writer/Associate Editor Writer/Associate Editor Photographer/Videographer Art Director/Photographer
Jenni Stoll Claudia Bohn Jessica Gill Emily Nohr Ramm Patrick Smith Daniel Johnson Chris Thompson
A TRUSTED TEAM FOR COMPLETE HEART HEALTH
©2019 Methodist Health System