Ochsner Magazine September/October 2022

Ochsner

Dear Friends ,

September marks the beginning of two important awareness initiatives: Childhood Cancer Awareness Month and World Alzheimer’s Month. Now especially, we want to acknowledge the tremendous work that healthcare providers, researchers and caregivers around the country are doing to improve the lives of children and young adults with cancer, as well as those who continue to challenge the stigma that persists around all types of dementia.

In this issue, we spotlight one remarkable 5-year-old, Eleanor “Ellie” Hudson, whose ongoing battle with neuroblastoma is defi ned by unexpected challenges—but no shortage of determination and hope. Because of generous contributions from Ochsner’s donors, children like Ellie and their families gain access to unparalleled fi nancial and emotional support, including a dedicated team of oncologists, a comfortable place to stay when traveling more than two hours for procedures, clinic visits or infusions and help with gas and food expenses.

You’ll learn about caregivers who defi ne our value of care that puts patients fi rst. This includes beloved David Margolin, MD, whose legacy is remembered with a fund for an endowed professorship at Ochsner (The Dr. David A. Margolin Colon and Rectal Surgery Professorship) and nurses like De-Edra Robinson who are able to continue striving for excellence thanks to the Patty Hanson Nursing Excellence Fund.

At Ochsner, caring for patients comes in many forms—from providing a compassionate support system amid diffi cult diagnoses and treatments to creating a safe environment for the entire community. You’ll discover how our top-tier security team empowers caregivers with the knowledge and tools they need to respond to emergencies, while protecting them against risks like workplace violence, pandemics and natural disasters.

While every patient experience is unique, our dedicated staff is in agreement: every person who walks through our hospital doors is deserving of the highest quality care, safety and community support. As one of the premier healthcare destinations in the Gulf South, we won’t stop striving for excellence—whether that’s advancing clinical research, pioneering new treatments or showing up to work each day with a can-do attitude.

So here’s to your health—and ours.

Warner L. Thomas

President & CEO, Ochsner Health

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Foundation Board

Gayle Benson

Robert Boh

Miles P. Clements

Tommy Coleman

Joseph R. Dalovisio, MD

Frank C. Dudenhefer, Jr.

William B. Emory

Calvin Fayard, Jr.

Gregory D. Flores

Paul H. Flower

Tommy Fonseca

Sarah G. Freeman

Wilmer “Bill” Freiberg

Marcel Garsaud

Lee L. Giorgio, Jr.

John M. Hairston

Desiree R. Harrison

Tara C. Hernandez

Todd B. Johnson

John Kennedy

Margaret L. Laborde

Chadwick Landry

Michael J. Maenza

Steve Nathanson

Lori K. Ochsner

Sue Roy Karen T. Stall

Pamela Steeg

Warner Thomas

Catherine Burns Tremaine

Norris Williams

See this magazine and all our archives online at:

Browse other projects made possible by donors at:

Ochsner Executive Leadership

Warner L. Thomas

President and Chief Executive Officer

Robert Hart, MD, FAAP, FACP

Executive Vice President and Chief Medical Officer

Michael Hulefeld

Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer

Scott J. Posecai

Executive Vice President, Insurance Partnerships and Treasurer

Pete November Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

Leonardo Seoane, MD, FACP

Senior Vice President and Chief Academic Officer

Tracey Schiro

Executive Vice President, Chief Risk and Human Resources Officer

David M. Gaines

Chief Executive Officer, Health and Wellness Solutions, Sr. VP Public Affairs

Jennifer F. Bollinger

Senior Vice President of Consumer Strategy

Denise Basow, MD

Senior Vice President and Chief Digital Officer

Ochsner Magazine

Lea Witkowski-Purl

Maida Jones

Editors

MarketSmiths Content Strategists, LLC

Victoria Cooper

Custom Publishing Editor

Amy Schraub

Art Director

Cover photo by Daymon Gardner

The cover photo of Ellie Hudson playing was taken in the pediatric playroom located on the 4th floor of Ochsner Hospital for Children. The playrooms for children and teens, including a sibling center for visiting siblings and cousins, provide a welcome reprieve to promote healing in our littlest patients. Please visit ochsner.org/giving/donate/toy-donations to learn more about the playrooms at OMC-New Orleans.

In This Issue

Imagining a World Without Alzheimer’s Disease

A donor shares her family’s encounters with Alzheimer’s disease for World Alzheimer’s Month.

In Brief: Supporting Our Communities

From a national initiative promoting childhood literacy to a resource for storing and distributing milk to babies in need, Ochsner donors offer aid.

Cover Story: Ellie Hudson’s Journey

A brave child’s journey through a neuroblastoma diagnosis and treatment and the support she received from the Ochsner community.

Empowering Future Physicians Through Endowed Scholarships

Rana Mehdizadeh is the recipient of the 2022 Dr. and Mrs. Roy Gregory Scholarship for Family Medicine and Monique Salazar is the recipient of the Perla S. Gil, MD Scholarship.

How Ochsner Helped Me

Jimmy Goldsmith shares the story of his 50-plus year relationship with Ochsner as he changed his lifestyle to help manage a type 1 diabetes diagnosis.

How the Patty Hanson Nursing Excellence Fund Empowers Nurses

Patty and John Hanson’s contributions to Ochsner continue to advance excellence in nursing education and practice.

Security and Emergency Preparedness

When disaster strikes, Ochsner is ready. Learn about the innovative procedures we have in place to ensure the safety of our staff, patients and community.

New Endowment Celebrates Dr. David Margolin

A new colorectal surgery professorship provides a fitting tribute to a treasured member of the Ochsner community.

Glimpses

Our events are as diverse as our community— from pet therapy to lectures on the proud history of the medical profession.

$1M Donation Supports a World Without Alzheimer’s Disease

Ochsner Neuroscience Institute donor Lillian Maurin recounts her family’s experience with Alzheimer’s disease for World Alzheimer’s Month

By Anne Paglia

Each September, Alzheimer’s Disease International organizes World Alzheimer’s Month, a campaign to spread awareness of Alzheimer’s disease and its symptoms. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, nearly six million Americans live with the illness, but there’s still no cure in sight.

Recognizing the need for more Alzheimer’s research and support for affected families in Louisiana, Lillian and Jimmy Maurin made a generous $1 million donation to the Ochsner Neuroscience Institute. For Lillian, whose father and sister both suffered from the disease, the cause is deeply personal.

Alzheimer’s disease severely impacts the brain and, consequently, a person’s relationships with family, friends and the world around them. When Lillian’s father, Robert Howell Crosby, Jr., was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in his 80s after a major surgery, she witnessed the painful trajectory of forgetfulness, confusion and behavioral transformation the illness brings firsthand.

“He probably had some type of dementia beforehand, but he was diagnosed after the hospital visit and had to start having sitters with him,” Lillian said.

After serving in World War II and studying at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Robert moved to DeRidder, Louisiana, to expand his family’s business and start a family of his own. Eventually, he and his wife moved closer to New Orleans, where they were devoted members of the community. Robert served on a number of corporate boards,

including the Whitney National Bank, Pan American Life Insurance Co. and Ochsner.

“My dad was such an outstanding, brilliant man,” Lillian said. “I couldn’t even begin to tell you how special he was to me, to all of my family. He did so much.”

When his condition worsened, Lillian and her family moved him to a senior living community in St. Tammany Parish, where he could receive the comprehensive care he needed. Although he eventually stopped speaking, Lillian was struck by an incident that occurred on his birthday a few days before he died. Robert was in hospice by then.

“My dad was a great singer and sang in his church,” Lillian said. “Even though

he hadn’t spoken much since going into hospice, on his birthday we brought him a Baskin-Robbins mint chocolate chip ice cream cake, which was his favorite. We began to sing ‘Happy Birthday’ and he started singing with us.”

A few days later, Lillian returned for a visit. Having worked for hospice, she knew her dad could still hear her despite having lost most of his communication skills. She played him music and talked to him. Later that night, on October 8, 2008, Lillian received a call from her brother. Robert had passed away.

“He didn’t suffer when he died, but it was painful to lose someone so accomplished, someone so loved, to this

— Lillian Maurin

“ In addition to clinical care, these patients need hope, social support, music and laughter— a holistic model of care where patients and families are at the center. ”

Lillian Maurin and her father, Robert Howell Crosby, Jr. Photo courtesy of Caroline Gallinaro

disease,” Lillian said.

After accompanying her father through the progression of Alzheimer’s, the diagnosis of her younger sister, Carla, with early-onset Alzheimer’s at age 59 was even more upsetting. Early-onset Alzheimer’s presents unique challenges. It affects people under age 65, many of whom still work and have children at home. More emotional, financial and clinical support is needed for these patients, their children and their caregivers.

Two years prior to the diagnosis, Carla began behaving unusually. She was showing signs of distrust toward her family, and on one occasion, she forgot where she had parked her car and a stranger drove her home. As Carla’s

devastated. “She and I shared so much, but watching her not get to know her grandchildren, and not get to see them become such vibrant people, was hard,” she said.

condition worsened, her husband, a cardiologist, found caregivers to watch her at home.

“He got her phenomenal sitters,” Lillian said. “One of them was a retired nurse whom he had worked with. She knew Carla and was so sweet with her. It was heartwarming, but Carla gradually deteriorated.”

When Carla passed away just shy of her 70th birthday, Lillian and her family were

After these two encounters with Alzheimer’s disease, Lillian and her husband say the decision to support the Neuroscience Institute was easy. Back in 2017, they donated $500,000 to Ochsner’s Brain Health Cognitive Disorders Program in honor of Robert and Carla. Lillian hopes their most recent donation will further help families and researchers get the support they need to curtail the far-reaching effects of Alzheimer’s. The Institute, which will specialize in treating neurological diseases like Alzheimer’s, will break ground on Ochsner’s main campus in fall 2022.

As of 2022, there are over 55 million people worldwide living with Alzheimer’s. This number is expected to increase, reaching 139 million by 2050. The informal caregivers for people living with dementia—often the patient’s family members and friends—spend an average of five hours each day providing care.

“This can be overwhelming for our patients and families,” said Richard Zweifler, MD, System Chair of Neurology at Ochsner. “Physical, emotional and financial pressures cause great stress for families and caregivers. Philanthropic investment from generous donors like Jimmy and Lillian help to ease that burden for our patients. Their support also allows us to provide the highest level of care and to invest in research efforts so that one day we can live in a world without Alzheimer’s.”

Organizations like Ochsner, with its Care Ecosystem Program for Alzheimer’s, provide patients and caregivers with 24/7 medical support and guidance, delivered through innovative technology.

“My husband and I always knew we were going to donate,” Lillian said. “In addition to clinical care, these patients need hope, social support, music and laughter—a holistic model of care where patients and families are at the center. We believe in the Ochsner Neuroscience Institute and its team’s vision to lead the Gulf South into a new era of neurological care.”

Lillian and Jimmy Maurin with their children and grandchildren. Photo courtesy of Caroline Gallinaro

Richard Zweifler, MD, System Chair, Neurology Photo: Stephen Legendre

In Brief: Supporting All Our Communities

From promoting childhood literacy to providing on-the-ground care in Haiti, your generosity offers help to traditionally under-served communities.

By George Menz

Reach Out and Read

There’s nothing like the magic a child experiences when they pick up a book. In addition to broadening children’s horizons and sparking their imagination, reading and literacy can significantly impact health outcomes. Reach Out and Read is a national program that partners with pediatricians to promote literacy. Participating pediatricians provide parents of young patients with a free book, encouraging families to read together. This does more than improve a child’s literacy: it also helps pediatricians track patients’ development and support them through potential delays. All Ochsner Health pediatric sites sites now participate in Reach Out and Read. We’ve given out over 9,000 books to our patients thanks to your donations.

Mothers’ Milk Bank of Louisiana

Nursing is an essential part of early childcare, with breast milk helping to promote healthy physical and cognitive development. To ensure that all babies have access to this essential resource, the Mothers’ Milk Bank of Louisiana processes, stores and distributes milk to babies in need. Since 2018, the Mothers’ Milk Bank of

Louisiana at Ochsner Baptist has received over 2,600 gallons of donated milk and distributed over 1,400 gallons. Breast milk has been distributed to 70% of all NICU patients and 148 outpatients. The donor-supported fund provides resources for this vital mission and helps protect the health of infants across Louisiana.

Slidell Pediatrics patient Gabriel-Isaiah Jones smiling after receiving a book at his visit. Photo: Laura Place, MD

Trained staff at the Mothers’ Milk Bank of Louisiana safely pasteurizing and testing donated breast milk. Photo: Harley Ginsberg, MD

Haitian Relief Fund

Haiti’s 2021 earthquake, combined with ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, has created significant public health challenges for the country. Through our partnership with the Foundation de Dr. Yvens Laborde de la Sante et l’Aide Humanitarian en Haiti, Ochsner Health provides free medicines and healthcare, earning Ochsner recognition from the Haitian Ministry of Health. “We were able to provide COVID testing kits and supplies and support local vaccination programs with our

local volunteer staff on the ground,” said Yvens Laborde, MD, Medical Director of Public Health and Global Health Education at Ochsner and Assistant Professor of Medicine and Course Director, Medicine in Society - Haiti. “We continue to support our partners on the ground to provide lifesaving care and transport in medical emergencies. The needs are great, but we make the most of every donation.”

Ochsner Resource Groups

Diversity, equity and inclusion have always been a part of who we are at Ochsner Health. Our 10 voluntary and employee-led resource groups represent key interests across our organization.

Here are the latest events and funds raised to support the Ochsner community at large: African Americans Building and Leading Equality (ABLE) provided scholarship funds to the NORD Back-to-School Supplies Giveaway event and resources to members who experienced personal hardships.

Asian American Innovation Movement (AAIM) covered the scholarship costs for three Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) students to attend summer camps hosted by STEM NOLA, covering topics like coding, robotics, chemistry, biology and environmental science.

Women Empowering Women (WoW) contributed to a wellness fair and the Dress for Success program.

Resourceful Experienced Team Rises at Ochsner (RETRO) participated in the Alzheimer’s Association’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s.

Exceptional Abilities (EA) participated in the National Alliance for Mental Illness Walk.

People, Resources, Inclusiveness, Diversity and Education (PRIDE) sponsored an Ochsner student scholarship.

All Ochsner Resource Groups contributed toward the funding of ten Northshore Robotics Student Scholarships.

Yvens Laborde, MD, outside a clinic where the Ochsner Health team and a staff of local volunteers were able to provide COVID testing kits and support vaccination programs. Inset: Young patients await care. Photos courtesy of Yvens Laborde, MD

Ellie Hudson’s Journey

How Ochsner helped to support Ellie and her family through an unimaginable battle with neuroblastoma

By George Menz | Photos: Daymon Gardner

When Eleanor “Ellie” Hudson was nine months old—an age when most children are beginning to crawl for the first time— she developed a sinus infection that she couldn’t shake. Her parents were unsure whether this type of prolonged sickness was common in newborns with Ellie being their first child. Without hesitation, they took Ellie to the Ochsner Hospital for Children to learn more.

“I can remember exactly what the room looked like when the surgeon came in,” said Kelly Hudson, Ellie’s mother. “I can tell you exactly what the surgeon looked like, how she was standing.”

The surgeon delivered news that every parent dreads. Ellie had a tumor. Further tests revealed that her tumor was malignant and cancerous: neuroblastoma.

Neuroblastoma is a cancer that develops from fetal nerve cells, called neuroblasts. Typically affecting children five years or younger, this cancer usually develops in the adrenal gland, but can spread to other parts of the body. For the Hudson family, learning that Ellie was suffering from this condition felt like a waking nightmare.

“It completely knocked the wind out of us,” Kelly said. “It came as a complete shock.”

A human connection in the midst of crisis

In the immediate aftermath of Ellie’s diagnosis, something remarkable happened. The Hudson family gained the full support of the Ochsner Health community. Even as they faced an unimaginable difficulty, they were already being shown the support that would help them through.

“They gave us the room to ourselves,” Kelly said. “And I remember the support of everybody from the children’s unit. People came in and said, ‘We’re here for you, and this is what you need to do next.’ I didn’t know what to do. I had never dealt with children’s cancer.”

Ellie shares her musical talent in the playroom at the Ochsner Hospital for Children.

That level of personal support and care continued throughout their experience at Ochsner. The Ochsner staff didn’t treat them as anonymous patients, but as human beings who deserve to be seen and heard—having their pain comforted and their joys shared.

“The first day we walked in, everybody knew who we were,” Kelly said. “I consider the nurses friends at this point. We know about their families, they know about us, everything.”

Craig Lotterman, MD, treated Ellie shortly after her diagnosis. When he first started medical school, he had no intention of going into pediatric oncology. However, as he continued to study, he discovered pediatric oncology allowed him to put his strong scientific background to work in multiple areas relating to patient care.

“In a lot of ways,” Dr. Lotterman said, “pediatric oncology is the best expression of medicine. Pediatric oncology allows

as an Associate Professor at the Ochsner/University of Queensland School of Medicine. A home away from home at the pediatric oncology clinic

For decades, Ochsner has worked tirelessly to fight cancers in children and young adults. Ochsner Hospital for Children has been ranked among the top 50 children’s hospitals in the country six years in a row, offering specialist care to children with cancer and a range of blood disorders.

Craig Lotterman, MD, Section Head, Department of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology

Photo: Stephen Legendre

you to be any form of doctor you want to be: it involves clinical research, basic science research, procedures and taking care of sick patients. At the same time, you get to develop long term bonds with families. There’s a connection, not just for a moment, but for a patient’s life.”

That connection, combined with the science behind it, drew Dr. Lotterman to medicine in the first place. It led him to Ochsner, where he currently sits as the Section Head of the Department of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology at Ochsner Hospital for Children, as well

The pediatric oncology unit actively participates in clinical trials and offers cutting-edge therapeutic options to children in Louisiana and the Gulf South. But what’s more, the hospital fosters an environment that helps patients feel safe. Patients see the same doctors and nurses every time they come in, and these

journey for children, parents, and other family members. “It’s really important to families,” Dr. Lotterman said. “We remind them that they know their child better than we ever will, and that we know the medicine best. By working together, we will get through the complexities of their child’s cancer therapy.”

According to Dr. Lotterman, Ochsner’s care teams believe the family’s insights are just as important as those of the doctors and nurses. “The days when a doctor told you what to do in a sterile environment and you did whatever they said are past. Patients and parents have ideas and we have to communicate.”

caregivers bond with children and families.

“One of the premises we run our clinic on is that we view the clinic as a family,” Dr. Lotterman said. “In many ways, we spend as much time talking about deep, scary things with these patients as anyone in their family.”

“Dr. Lotterman is so personal with us,” Kelly said. “Our discussions are not only about treatment, it’s: how’s your family doing? Have you watched this show recently?”

This unique culture is essential to the clinic’s mission of providing high-quality pediatric care and easing the difficult

One crucial aspect of the clinic’s approach is how it strives to make it possible for patients to remain at home during their treatment, while still receiving the same quality of care.

“We want to give evidence-based, state-of-the-art care to all patients, and allow them to stay at home,” Dr. Lotterman explained. “Parents’ first question is usually, where can I take my kid? Where’s the best place for them to be? I tell families, if you can get the same medicine, wouldn’t you rather stay in your own bed?”

Kelly has appreciated this level of attention and care throughout the process

“ These kids go through a war without complaint, and they need everybody’s help. ”

— Craig Lotterman, MD

Ellie Hudson’s Journey

of Ellie’s treatment journey.

“Every time we’ve ever had to call— maybe she’s lost a lot of weight or isn’t feeling well—Dr. Lotterman always asks, ‘How comfortable do you feel at home with her?” Kelly said. “We’re within a ten minute drive to Ochsner, so obviously, if anything were to happen we would immediately bring her in. But they understand that the best place for Ellie is with her family at home.”

“Especially with COVID-19 regulations,” Kelly added, “being limited to one parent at a time and no visitors can be really hard for families. They’ve always understood that and have made us feel comfortable wherever we are.”

Overcoming trials with a support system

Ellie’s journey has been full of unexpected challenges. After Ellie’s initial diagnosis in 2018, she underwent chemotherapy for four months. Her treatment worked—her tumor stabilized and she didn’t need further treatment. Then, in September 2020, routine scans showed that her tumor had started growing again. Ellie needed to resume chemotherapy treatment. Once again, the Hudson family found the Ochsner community rose to the occasion providing their family with full support.

“They welcomed us back with open arms,” Kelly said. “All the nurses know our names. They know us.”

Instead of receiving care at home, the Hudsons chose in-patient treatment as the best option for their daughter. Then, they learned they were expecting another child. In February 2021, Ochsner prepared Ellie for two surgeries to be performed at Memorial Sloan Kettering in New York City. Ellie’s parents accompanied her across the country - her mother was 32 weeks pregnant.

“My husband and I wanted to be there with her during her surgeries,” Kelly said. “But due to me being so far along and due to COVID regulations, we needed to switch off. We couldn’t be with her every day.”

It was a challenging time. But brighter

days were around the corner. Ellie’s surgeries went well with no complications. Kelly gave birth to the family’s second daughter, Lily. The support from Ochsner crossed state borders as the care team took

cancers. Funds support stays at the Brent House, which offers a comfortable environment to families who travel more than two hours for procedures, clinic visits and infusions. The fund also assists

an active and concerned interest in Ellie’s condition as she recovered in New York.

“We were in constant contact with the nurses from Dr. Lotterman’s office,” Kelly said. “We had their personal numbers. They called us to see how the surgery went and how Ellie was doing.”

The support that the Hudsons received through the clinics at Ochsner might seem remarkable, but for families at Ochsner Hospital for Children, it’s the norm. The generosity and kindness of the greater Ochsner community help make it possible.

September is Childhood Cancer Awareness month, and Dr. Lotterman stressed how critical awareness and support can be for pediatric oncology patients.

“Every oncology center loves it when people come and ask how they can help,” Dr. Lotterman said. “Any help is appreciated, from coming in and reading stories to children to donating money to patient support, research and different patient care resources. These kids go through a war without complaint, and they need everybody’s help.”

Ochsner’s donor funds offer support to children and families undergoing treatment for pediatric

families with gas and food expenditures.

“This is not an everyday occurrence for people,” Kelly said. “As hard as it’s been on us, and Ellie, we couldn’t have done it without the amazing support we’ve received from Ochsner’s Child Life Department, the nursing staff at the oncology clinic, all the oncologists and our family. We’ve been lucky to have an amazing support system both within Ochsner and outside Ochsner.”

“ They understand that the best place for Ellie is with her family at home. ”

— Kelly Hudson

Ellie enjoys playtime at the Ochsner Hospital for Children

SCHOLARSHIPS

The Perla S. Gil, MD Scholarship

By Victoria Cooper | Photos: Courtesy of Ochsner Academics

A trailblazer for women in medicine, Perla Gil, MD, was born in 1924 in Santiago, Cuba. Specializing in anesthesiology, Dr. Gil’s journey during the 1950s was challenging. When she applied to residencies, she found that many programs shut their doors—they were not interested in admitting a young Hispanic woman. This was not the case at Ochsner Health. Through the efforts of Dr. Dean H. Echols, who oversaw graduate medical education at the time, Dr. Gil was awarded a fellowship in 1952 to train at the Ochsner Clinic.

Ochsner Academics is pleased to announce that Monique Salazar has been named the 2022 Perla S. Gil, MD Scholarship recipient. The scholarship, supported by a generous endowment from Dr. Gil’s husband, was established in 2014 to support female Ochsner Clinical School students of Hispanic descent, a group traditionally underrepresented in the medical profession.

“We are a minority group that

is extremely underrepresented in medicine. Our workforce should represent those we treat. I hope to continue giving back to the Hispanic community not only in New Orleans but wherever my medical practice takes me,” Monique said.

Born and raised in Miami, Florida, to parents of Cuban-Nicaraguan descent, Monique’s family roots in medicine include her paternal great-grandfather who was a doctor in Nicaragua. Monique attended Emory University and received an undergraduate degree in Human Health. She then worked as a research specialist for world-renowned Cassandra Quave, PhD, an ethnobotanist and associate professor at Emory University.

Currently, Monique is a third-year student at University of Queensland - Ochsner Clinical School where she volunteers at Luke’s House, a free Spanish clinic, and founded the first chapter of the Latino Medical Student Association at UQ-Ochsner. “We are hoping to start a medical Spanish class that all students can take throughout their four years at UQOchsner,” Monique said.

The Dr. and Mrs. Roy Gregory Scholarship for Family Medicine

By Victoria Cooper | Photos: Courtesy of Ochsner Academics

A champion for the benefits of family medicine, Roy Gregory, MD, practiced primary care in Mandeville, Louisiana for 37 years. At the time, his was the first primary care practice on the Northshore to join Ochsner Health.

Founded in 2018 and established through a generous endowment from the Gregory family, Ochsner Academics is pleased to announce that Rana Mehdizadeh has been named the 2022 recipient. A dedicated fourth-year medical student at the University of QueenslandOchsner Clinical School, Rana is pursuing a career in family medicine. She will receive a $3,000 scholarship award.

Originally from the San Francisco Bay Area, Rana graduated from the University of California, Berkeley with degrees in

public health and human biology. Rana explained that family medicine has always been a dynamic field, but expects it to become even more so with the “prioritization of health equity and advocacy.” She added, “In addition to a holistic, wide scope of practice, I believe that many future family physicians will find themselves in leadership and advocacy roles.”

She currently serves as the President of the Family Medicine Interest Group and

as a board member of the New Orleans Adolescent Reproductive Health Project (NOARHP) that provides sexual health education in New Orleans public schools.

(Left) Dr. Perla Gil, MD (Right) Monique Salazar, a third-year student at the UQ Ochsner Clinical School, was awarded the 2022 Perla S. Gil, MD Scholarship.

(Left) Dr. Roy Gregory, MD. (Right) Rana Mehdizadeha, a fourthyear student at UQ Ochsner Clinical School, was awarded the 2022 Dr. and Mrs. Roy Gregory Scholarship for Family Medicine.

How Ochsner Helped Me: Jimmy Goldsmith

One man’s life with type 1 diabetes—and the support he received from the Ochsner community

By George Menz

At age 77, James Goldsmith—who goes by Jimmy—keeps active. He helps his wife Robin, a contractor, with her work. He loves to visit with his grandchildren who live a few miles away. He tries to stay busy and take walks often. Jimmy knows a lot about staying healthy and taking care of himself—and there’s a good reason for that. For 56 years, he’s lived with type 1 diabetes.

If you ask him about it, though, he’ll tell you that it may have made him healthier.

“I worked very hard to develop a healthy lifestyle,” he said. “I gave up beer and got myself in pretty good shape. I watched what I ate. I learned that white carbs can be a real negative.”

He says that he’s never been sick enough to miss two consecutive days of work in his life, and he’s not sure if he’s ever had the flu. He believes the healthy lifestyle he adopted after his diagnosis —alongside the top-quality medical care he’s received at Ochsner—has kept him strong and healthy.

Flashback to 1967: Jimmy was a senior in college, and with no deferments from the Army, he passed his physical and drove home to Louisiana. Soon after, he began to feel unwell. He lost 20 pounds. It was obvious to Jimmy that something was wrong. The first place he went for help

was Ochsner—and he’s been with them ever since.

It didn’t take long to diagnose Jimmy with type 1 diabetes. At the time, he

kill yourself. I quit that day.” He is thankful that Ochsner assigned him Dr. Locke when he first started his treatment—and he has just as much praise for his other Ochsner doctors.

was seen by Dr. William Locke. “Dr. Locke gave me one of two choices,” Jimmy said. “Either deal with it or don’t. I was smoking a little bit in college. Dr. Locke said a little bit doesn’t work: either quit or

“Dr. Samuel Andrews is brilliant,” Jimmy said. “He gets credit for saving my life.” In 2013, Dr. Andrews sent Jimmy to the cardiology unit at Ochsner. After 40 years of living with diabetes and never encountering a heart problem or taking heart medication, he found that his arteries were clogged. He describes the situation as a “ticking time bomb.” He underwent a triple bypass at Ochsner, never having had a heart problem, and

“ If you do your research, follow your doctor’s instructions—and deal with your illness in a positive way—it doesn’t have to debilitate you. ”

— Jimmy Goldsmith

Jimmy (left) with his wife, Robin. Photo: Martha Mullikin

today his heart is in excellent condition. How times have changed

“Patient care has changed,” Jimmy said. “You can’t have one doctor who watches over every aspect of care. It doesn’t happen anymore.”

Today Jimmy works with a team of doctors including ophthalmologist Joseph Benevento, MD, and endocrinologist Daniel Englert, MD, for both of whom he has nothing but good things to say.

“I’ve never been to another [nonOchsner] doctor,” Jimmy said. “I had a little tooth problem in Australia, and an Australian doctor fixed it. But I’ve never been treated by anyone but an Ochsner doctor.”

The treatment for diabetes has advanced significantly since 1967. At the time, there were only two diabetic nurses in training in New Orleans, one of whom was at Ochsner. Jimmy describes the process as a guessing game: he would get his blood drawn every morning but didn’t receive the results until the next morning. Dr. Locke let Jimmy call him at home to get the results. It was trial and error as he and Dr. Locke tried to determine what dose of insulin to take.

Thankfully, the technology involved in treating diabetes has advanced. Jimmy’s life changed when the first finger-pricking technology to measure blood sugar levels came out 33 years ago. He no longer had to guess what his blood sugar level was. He and his young daughter nicknamed the device “Mr. Blood” from how often he pricked his finger. Today, there’s no blood necessary: he has a continuous glucose monitor, and the insulin pens he uses for injections are small and discreet.

“When a patient is diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, it’s a big adjustment,” said Dr. Englert, who has treated Jimmy since 2020. “There are so many things to learn all at once. Jimmy is very on top of things. He’s probably one of the most adherent patients I have. It makes a big difference.”

Dr. Englert describes his philosophy of care as “treating the patient first.” He tries to learn their daily routine and tailor his treatment plan around it.

“It’s easy to treat the disease, but harder to treat a person,” Dr. Englert said. “Every patient’s a little bit different, and individualized care is very important—

deal with your illness in a positive way, it doesn’t have to debilitate you,” Jimmy said.

especially with type 1 diabetics, who may have different diets or different lifestyles.”

He strives to understand what his patients are doing from day to day, which he says is more effective than prescribing a medication and leaving the patient to “figure it out” on their own.

“Type 1 diabetes is a systemic disease that can affect multiple organs,” Dr. Englert said. “As you age and those systems don’t work as well as they used to, it becomes especially important to manage the condition so that it doesn’t get worse.”

Working with Dr. Englert, Jimmy continues to manage his diabetes with a combination of technology and a healthy lifestyle. As a result, he’s able to live life to the fullest and enjoy time with his wife, daughter, son-in-law and two grandchildren. “If you do your research, follow your doctor’s instructions and

Outside of Jimmy’s medical treatment, Ochsner has also helped support the Goldsmith family through an unforeseeable crisis. On Labor Day 2020, while playing with her grandchild, Jimmy’s wife Robin fell and broke her neck. She was quickly rushed to Ochsner’s emergency room, where staff assessed her condition. She was treated for her injuries by Paul Celestre, MD, Vice Chair of Orthopedic Surgery, and his team. Five days later she walked out of Ochsner— and in three months, she drove back to the hospital to pick up her daughter and newborn grandchild. “Her recovery is a blessing from God,” Jimmy said.

With all that he’s seen and experienced, Jimmy feels fortunate—and now, he focuses on living in the moment and enjoying each day. “I like being a grandpa,” he said. “I like being married for 37 years to the nicest person in the world. I’m very lucky right now.”

Daniel Englert, MD Photo: Stephen Legendre

“ It’s easy to treat the disease, but harder to treat a person. ”

— Daniel Englert, MD

Empowering the Next Generation of Nurses

A tribute to Patty and John Hanson, whose contributions to Ochsner continue to advance nursing education and excellence

By Olivia Watson

For Patty Hanson, sharing knowledge with others was more than a passion—it was her calling. From leading the intensive care unit at Touro Infirmary and writing self-care manuals for dialysis patients at Ochsner Health to eventually publishing a guidebook for patients suffering from cancer, Patty was devoted to educating herself, her colleagues and every patient who walked through the hospital doors.

When Patty passed away in 2014, her husband created the Patty Hanson Nursing Excellence Fund in her honor. This fund grants scholarships to aspiring nurses so they can continue learning and striving for excellence in their communities.

A loving husband and donor to the fund, John Hanson recently passed away. Today, the Hanson family’s light and legacy lives on in the bright futures of scholarship awardees.

Partnering with Chamberlain University

When the fund was first created in 2014, the idea was to financially support nurses in their research or educational endeavors. But when John learned about Ochsner’s educational alliance program with Chamberlain University’s College of Nursing, the fund took on a new shape.

In 2018, the Patty Hanson Nursing Excellence Fund was officially re-dedicated as a scholarship for Chamberlain University nursing students. The nationally accredited nursing program

at Chamberlain aligned perfectly with Ochsner’s mission to “educate, empower and embolden diverse healthcare professionals who advance the health of people, families, communities and nations.”

“The award is given to two nursing students training at Chamberlain University College of Nursing at Ochsner,” explained Jennifer Couvillon, PhD, RN-BC, CNE, President of Chamberlain University’s New Orleans, Louisiana campus. “Patty Hanson awardees have overcome challenges and demonstrated an above-and-beyond, caring spirit.”

Inspiring the next generation of nurses

This year, De-Edra Robinson embodied excellence in the nursing community, earning her place as the fall 2022 recipient. “It came as a huge surprise that I was nominated,” she said. “I was so excited.”

A dedicated student and Ochsner employee, De-Edra used to work overnight as a histology technician in Ochsner’s lab while attending nursing classes at Chamberlain University during the day. Commuting from Baton Rouge to New Orleans, the time between her work shift and class was limited—so she would

John Hanson, center with the first two recipients of the Patty Hanson Nursing Excellence Scholarship and a portrait of Patty at the dedication in 2018. Photo courtesy of Ochsner Philanthropy

“ As a leader, I want to inspire others. I’ve had plenty of doors closed in my face, but I never gave up. I am a first-generation college student and will be completing my third degree next year. ”

— De-Edra Robinson

sometimes stay in her car for a few hours of sleep.

“This scholarship has transformed my family’s life,” she shared. “It has allowed me to stop working and focus on nursing school.” In the fall, De-Edra will begin as a full-time student at Chamberlain University. Paying success forward

For Ochsner, Chamberlain University and the Gulf South community at large, success doesn’t end with this award. Recipients continue empowering others after graduation by sharing their knowledge and passion just like Patty.

“Mr. and Mrs. Hanson’s education fund is a gift of love to future generations of caregivers,” Dr. Couvillon said. “It is an honor to keep the Hanson family

legacy alive, especially considering these awardees give back to the community in so many more ways than we could ever give to them.”

This couldn’t be more true of De-Edra.

“As a leader, I want to inspire others,” she said. “I’ve had plenty of doors closed in my face, but I never gave up. I am a firstgeneration college student and will be completing my third degree next year.”

This opportunity comes as a firm reminder of how powerful a supportive, welcoming learning environment can be: “Never doubt yourself,” De-Edra said. “The only time you really fail is when you don’t try at all.” Patty and John Hanson would surely agree.

Patty Hanson Nursing Excellence Awardees

FALL 2022: De-Edra Robinson

SPRING 2022: Samantha Oestriecher

FALL 2021: Christian Wilson

SPRING 2021: Tegan Moersfelder

FALL 2020: Ovena Darius

SUMMER 2020: Sonja Schuster

SPRING 2020: Kaitlynn Moran

FALL 2019: Michelle Theriot

SUMMER 2019: Jada Davis and Princess Jones

De-Edra Robinson outside of Chamberlain University in her medical scrubs. Photo courtesy of De-Edra Robinson

Safeguarding the Ochsner Community

How the Security and Emergency Preparedness Fund helps staff mitigate risk—from workplace violence to natural disasters

By Olivia Watson

Jokingly referred to as the Weather Channel’s Jim Cantore of Ochsner Health, Vice President of Security & Emergency Management Mark Dupuis is well-known for his ability to foresee risk and respond—almost as well as a meteorologist predicting a storm.

“There is a huge need in our community to protect healthcare environments,” Mark said. “Our number one priority is to make sure staff, patients and guests are safe and secure at any Ochsner location.”

In healthcare specifically, emergency management is about empowering caregivers with the knowledge and tools they need to respond to emergency situations, while protecting them against risks like workplace violence, pandemics and natural disasters.

Securing a facility at scale

When Ochsner’s dedicated community of physicians, nurses and administrative staff show up to work each day, they are fully prepared to live out its mission: serve, heal, lead, educate and innovate.

But this team, spanning 40 hospitals and more than 300 health and urgent care centers across Louisiana, Mississippi and the Gulf South, can only protect patients if they are safe themselves.

Security and emergency preparedness for 34,000 staff members requires strategic and creative thinking. “Our mantra is: Mitigate, Plan, Respond and Recover,” Mark said. This four-pronged approach is not limited to the security team but extends to the entire healthcare ecosystem—from the front desk staff to caregivers.

Advancing emergency management with innovation

Mitigating risk begins with the right tools. The Security and Emergency Preparedness Fund ensures Ochsner’s team is equipped with the “bread and butter” of security, including forensic cameras, access controls, panic buttons and patrol cars. Beyond the basics, this fund allows Ochsner to continue strengthening safety precautions—on the forefront of innovative technology.

In 2020, Ochsner implemented a cutting-edge safety system for staff. The device, typically attached to the ID

badge of a hospital staff member, gives caregivers a simple and inconspicuous way to summon help to their location when they feel unsafe.

When a staff member presses a small button on this device, a silent distress signal with their name and real-time location is instantly sent to security personnel and staff in proximity. Together, the team can support each other in de-escalating the situation.

With these tools in place, Ochsner’s security team also trains staff so they can respond safely when using them. From active shooter and pandemic drills to hurricane and patient surge

Mako the security K-9 at OMC-New Orleans. Photo: Beth Burris

training, healthcare workers are educated about what they can do to create safer outcomes in emergency situations.

Planning for natural disasters

In the Gulf South, where hurricanes have their own season, safety and security extends to natural disaster preparation. “We do hurricanes really well here because we have to,” Mark said. “It comes with the territory.”

This means being equipped with generators, emergency cell phones with sim cards from two carriers, radios, WiFi capabilities and potable water. The security team also has a fleet of flatbed boats for water rescues and military trucks that can traverse high waters.

“We’re always ready because we have the experience,” Mark said. “We even make sure our staff has access to safe housing if and when they need it.”

Paving the way for a safer future

Ochsner’s team is able to continue strengthening their security efforts thanks to generous contributions to the Security and Emergency Preparedness Fund.

“Contributing to caregivers’ safety and resilience is not only a privilege, but a responsibility,” said Justin Green, a donor to the Security and Emergency Preparedness Fund.

Ongoing contributions allow for upgrades in technology, transportation and initiatives like the Security Canine team. The first dog to join the team, Mako, patrols the halls of OMC-New Orleans

to keep patients and staff safe—while bringing everyone joy in the process.

“Many people only think about emergency situations when they arrive,” Mark said. “This fund helps us anticipate needs and work together before that day comes, so our caregivers can keep doing what they do best.”

Ochsner is paving the way for stronger security and emergency management across all healthcare environments with donors like Mark at the helm. “I see the amazing work the Ochsner community does,” Mark said. “And it’s a privilege to keep supporting them.”

“ There is a huge need in our community to protect healthcare environments. Our number one priority is to make sure staff, patients and guests are safe and secure at any Ochsner location . ”

— Mark Dupuis

Security dog Mako visits Ochsner St. Anne during Hurricane Ida in September 2021. Photos: Ochsner Marketing and Communications

Security officers at Ochsner St. Mary.

Celebrating Dr. David Margolin with ‘Dave Fest’

New colorectal surgery professorship honoring beloved Ochsner physician reaches initial funding goal

By Anne Paglia

When most patients visit their doctor, they exchange a few pleasantries before discussing the issue that brought them in. The interaction tends to be formal and routine. The patients of David Margolin, MD, had a different experience.

“Patients used to tell me that when their whole family was in the room, David would walk in and sit down on one of those big garbage cans with the lids because he wasn’t going to ask anybody to move,” said Jeanne Rademacher, MD,

Dr. Margolin’s wife and a pediatrician at Ochsner. “He was so unassuming and kind. You would never know by looking at him that he was a world famous surgeon.”

As the former Director of Colorectal Research at Ochsner and a Professor of Surgery at the University of Queensland - Ochsner Clinical School, Dr. Margolin was highly involved in the Ochsner community. He first arrived at the hospital in the mid-90s for his colon and rectal fellowship before returning to Ochsner

in 2002. It was during his fellowship that he met a longtime friend and colleague, Charles Whitlow, MD.

“Dave genuinely enjoyed people,” said Dr. Whitlow, Chairman of the Department of Colon and Rectal Surgery and Associate Medical Director for Surgical Services at Ochsner. “He cared about people, especially those he taught and took care of. Some people have to work to make others feel like they’re being cared for, but for Dave it was pretty natural.”

Friends and family gather for Dave Fest. Photo: Anna Combes INSET: David Margolin, MD was beloved by patients and colleagues alike. Photos courtesy of the Margolin family

David Margolin, MD

Teaching also came naturally to Dr. Margolin, who trained 30 colorectal fellows alongside Dr. Whitlow during his two decades at Ochsner. His commitment and mastery earned him several teaching awards, including two at Ochsner and one at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit, where he practiced briefly.

In addition to fulfilling clinical and teaching responsibilities, Dr. Margolin still found time to conduct cancer research. His main focus concerned the secondary mutations that occur in the lymph node microenvironment, after metastasis.

“He had a real passion for being a surgeon but he also wanted to be a scientist and an investigator,” Dr. Whitlow said. “Being an educator and a researcher were two things he really valued.”

When Dr. Margolin was diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer in October 2018, his family and friends remained hopeful despite his disease’s continued advance. Dr. Margolin passed away 18 months later in April 2020, leaving behind his family and countless colleagues, fellows,

Lincoln Cox, Dr. Margolin’s former patient.

Lincoln first met Dr. Margolin in March 2012, shortly after receiving news that he had a malignant tumor at the connection of his colon and rectum. Within a day of Lincoln’s initial visit, Dr. Margolin had a

important to me.”

In June 2022, friends, family, patients and colleagues who contributed to the endowment gathered to celebrate achieving the initial $500,000 funding goal. They called the celebration “Dave Fest,” a nod to Dr. Margolin’s love for New Orleans’s annual Jazz Fest. The event featured Dr. Margolin’s favorite things: crawfish, barbecue and music.

“David loved Jazz Fest,” Dr. Rademacher said. “We always took the kids out of school to go.”

residents and patients on whom he made an indelible impact.

To honor and remember Dr. Margolin, the Colon and Rectal Surgery Department started a fund for an endowed professorship at Ochsner: The Dr. David A. Margolin Colon and Rectal Surgery Professorship. The professorship will provide its awardee dedicated time for surgical research, an endeavor often relegated behind teaching and treating patients.

When friends and acquaintances heard about the fund, many were eager to contribute. The decision was easy for

treatment plan prepared.

“He was passionate about his work and that passion extended to how he treated his patients,” Lincoln said. “We realized we had things in common including a love of golf, music and great wines. A friendship grew out of the trust I had in him to help me beat cancer and live a long life.”

Lincoln had previously contributed to Dr. Margolin’s research, as well as the Ochsner Cancer Center. “When I learned about the endowment, there was no question about making contributions to that as well,” Lincoln said. “To know that it would help fund his research is very

After a memorable celebration, Dr. Whitlow hopes to continue raising funds and eventually turn the professorship into an endowed chair, honoring Dr. Margolin for years to come.

“You live on through your legacy,” Dr. Rademacher said. “In 20 years, when someone hears ‘The David A. Margolin Endowed Chair,’ they’ll ask, ‘Who was David Margolin?’ and someone will tell a funny story about him or something goofy he did or some amazing surgery he pulled off. David was a terrific guy, a wonderful surgeon and an amazing teacher. It’s a great way for his memory to live on.”

“ David was a terrific guy, a wonderful surgeon and an amazing teacher. It’s a great way for his memory to live on. ”

— Dr. Jeanne Rademacher

Elizabeth Margolin, David Margolin, MD, Jeanne Rademacher, MD and Eric Margolin Photo courtesy of Jeanne Rademacher, MD

Raising the Bar

As we celebrate our 80th year, our focus remains on inspiring healthier lives and stronger communities. From being consistently recognized as one of the top hospitals in the nation to promoting children’s literacy at every Ochsner Health pediatric site—raising the bar isn’t just something we do, it’s who we are.

Ranked #1

Ochsner Hospital for Children Awarded Best Pediatric Hospital

Ochsner Medical Center - New Orleans, including its Baptist and West Bank campuses, awarded Best Hospital in Louisiana

50+

“High Performing” Procedure and Condition Awards awarded to several Ochsner hospitals and its partners by US News.

6 years

a row ranked among the TOP 50

Children’s Hospitals in the country.

procedures and conditions treated at OMC received a distinguished High Performing ranking.

Thanks to your donations, all Ochsner Pediatric sites now participate in Reach Out and Read. We are proud to share the following number of books distributed:

New Orleans

Baton Rouge

specialties ranked in the nation’s

TOP 10%

#43

in the country awarded to OMC’s Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) program.

Hurricane Ida: One Year Later

By Olivia Watson | Photos: Ochsner Marketing and Communications

On the 16th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, Category 4 storm Hurricane Ida struck Louisiana. The arrival of this storm in August 2021 coincided with the state’s largest surge of COVID-19 cases since the start of the pandemic, shattering hospitalization records and complicating the pre-storm evacuation process.

Not only did staff have very little time to prepare for the storm—just four days— but because of COVID-19 safety measures, they were required to add more rooms and distance between patients to prevent

the spread of the virus.

In the aftermath of the storm, patients were transferred to Ochsner facilities across the state as repairs began right away. Many services returned within days, including the medical inpatient unit, behavioral health, outpatient services and COVID-19 vaccinations and testing. The health system also supported employees by opening gas stations on its campuses, offering assistance payments through the Employee Assistance Fund and providing food, supplies and housing. Support

through the Security and Emergency Response Fund was provided by donors like you.

Within a month of Ida’s landfall, many of Ochsner’s facilities were back to 100% capacity—a testament to Ochsner’s extraordinary emergency management and preparedness. One year later, Ochsner is a safer, stronger community that has been able to recover, rebuild and continue providing premier care to the Gulf South— thanks to the generosity of donors and the dedication inherent to its staff.

Leonard J. Chabert Medical Center in Houma celebrated a major step toward recovery in the Bayou Region on Friday, Oct. 8, 2021, with the reopening of inpatient, critical care and surgical services.

Chabert celebrated with music from the Nicholls State University band, balloons and a beautiful blue sky.

Ochsner Health along with Second Harvest Food Bank of New Orleans, hosted a hot meal distribution in St. Charles Parish, an area significantly impacted by Hurricane Ida.

Glimpses

Inspiring healthier communities through kindness and education

Take a peek at some events around the system from the past few weeks.

On August 12, 2022, volunteer Cher and Clarence the therapy dog visited OMC-New Orleans bringing the healing power of pet therapy to both patients and employees.

Mrs. Jennifer McFadden, P. Michael McFadden, MD, Sam Money, MD, and Devinder Bhatia, MD, at the welcome dinner for the Michael C. Trotter History of Medicine Lecture at Commander’s Palace on August 24. Photo: Helen Zito

Clarence smiles at the Clinical Research Apprentices (who are in the inaugural year of the program at Ochsner) and their Program Supervisor during his August 12 visit. Photo: Beth Burris

Cher and Clarence the dog visit patients and employees at OMC-New Orleans on August 12, 2022. Photo: Beth Burris

On August 25, 2022, the Ochsner Alumni Association hosted the Michael C. Trotter History of Medicine Lecture, which featured Craig A. Miller, MD in discussion of his latest book, A Time for All Things: The Life of Michael E. DeBakey. This biography is Dr. Miller’s third book and includes the history of Dr. DeBakey’s relationship with Ochsner Health.

Because of your generous support of funds like the Danica Gibbs Memorial Fund, patients who experience unexpected financial burdens during their healing journey can find relief with prescriptions, gas, meals and housing. The Danica Gibbs Memorial Fund directly benefits pediatric heart transplant patients and their families. Danica received a heart transplant as an infant and died in 2003 at the age of six. The fund honors her memory while providing support to other patients.

To learn more about any of the funds mentioned in this issue or to make a donation, please scan this code.

Craig A. Miller, MD, and Michael Trotter, MD, at the Michael C. Trotter History of Medicine Lecture on August 25 in the Stewart Riverview Terrace. Dr. Miller recently published a biography of Michael DeBakey, MD, and spoke about his life and relationship to Ochsner. Photo: Helen Zito

Transplant patient Daisy has missed most of her senior year due to her transplant. Her social worker reached out to Philanthropy to coordinate a photo shoot for her senior photos. Photo: Ray Bender

Pete November named new Ochsner Health CEO

On September 13, 2022, Ochsner’s Board of Directors announced that they unanimously voted to appoint Pete November, Ochsner Health’s current Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, as Chief Executive Officer. November will assume the role of CEO on November 1, 2022.

“This organization is an incredibly special place, and I am grateful to the Board for the opportunity to help shape its bright future,” said November. “It is a privilege to partner with our 36,000 employees and physicians to meet the needs and exceed the expectations of the communities we serve. As the leading health system in the Gulf South, I take seriously the responsibility we have to fulfill our mission, deliver innovative care and keep Ochsner strong for years to come.”

After 24 years of service to the organization, Warner Thomas will enter the next chapter of his career as President and CEO of Sutter Health. During his tenure as CEO, Thomas has led the organization through a period of transformation, tripling the size of the health system from nearly 13,000 to approximately 36,000 employees, from 860 to more than 2,300 physicians and providing high-quality care in 40 hospitals serving our communities across Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama.