Your winter edition of Living Well!
Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park are great places to live well in the Winter. The quiet days and early sunsets set in, a blanket of snow has covered the ground and wildlife remains active. It is a beautiful time of year to be in this mountain valley.
In this issue, you will find important news and information about Estes Park Health. You can also read about EPH’s plans for the future as they transition to an affiliation with UCHealth, Colorado’s largest health system.
The pages are also chock full of ideas about getting outdoors to stay in shape, and interesting things to do in and around the Estes valley
As always, we are grateful to our sponsors. Without them, we would not be able to deliver this publication to you.
Enjoy!
Snow and ice cover Lower Copeland Falls in the Wild Basin area of Rocky Mountain National Park. (Dawn Wilson Photography)
Estes Park Health welcomes Amanda Ericson as Registered Dietitian
By Daniel Webb for Estes Park Trail-Gazette
Estes Park Health has welcomed Amanda Ericson aboard as its new registered dietitian.
Ericson’s new role, which she started in August, largely centers around providing education and counseling to patients regarding their nutrition needs and understanding how to adapt their eating patterns to accommodate their new diet or restrictions. Ericson worked as a baker for many years before attending Colorado State University’s nutrition program and receiving her master’s degree from University of Colorado Colorado Springs.
“For a lot of patients, this might be the only opportunity they have to receive this type of education,” Ericson said in a news release. “They might not receive that when they’re an outpatient or living at home. A lot of what you
find on the internet you can’t really trust all the sources. I can use my education and training to collaborate with all these different resources and then make it easy for them to understand.”
Ericson said she has helped patients manage their gastroesophageal reflux disease and (GERD) helped out with diabetic diets at the Estes Park Health outpatient
clinic. Before joining Estes Park Health, she worked at the Medical Center of Aurora, assisting patients with needs such as food tube feeding and broken bone recovery. Estes Park Health has also introduced outpatient nutrition counseling, a means for people to manage their health by learning more about what to eat and how to eat.
“The services that we
will offer are geared toward what insurance covers,” Ericson said. “Medicare covers diabetes and renal diets. I will also work with other insurance companies if patients have GERD or other diseases that could benefit from dietary help. I love that I get the creativity to design nutrition handouts or presentations. I really like seeing how it makes it easier for patients to understand. Most of the nutrition education that is available to people is black-and-white writing. It’s not interesting, and the information is ultimately not absorbed. I feel like what I create for them is easier for them to understand and remember.”
For more information about outpatient nutrition counseling at Estes Park Health, call the EPH main number at 970-586-2317 and ask to be connected to the registered dietitian
New extended hours for diagnostic imaging
By Wendy Rigby Estes Park Health
The Diagnostic Imaging Department at Estes Park Health is increasing its operating hours. With increased staffing, EPH is extending its hours for MRI and mammography, offering additional appointment times for our outpatients who need these services.
Starting on Nov. 25, EPH will have an MRI tech onsite from 6:30 a.m to 7 p.m. Monday through
Friday. The first scheduled outpatient appointment will be available at 7 a.m. and the final outpatient will be scheduled at 4:45 p.m. for a 5 p.m. appointment start time. This schedule allows for three additional outpatient appointments each day
The MRI techs will still be at the hospital to scan any Emergency Department of inpatients who need an MRI from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
The mammography schedule has also expanded. The 3D mammography appointment hours are
Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. EPH has added three additional appointments Monday through Thursday and one additional appointment on Friday.
The other imaging appointment hours are:
• Computed Tomography (CT) Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Ultrasound: Monday through Thursday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.,
Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• X-ray: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA): Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Fluoroscopy: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Call 970.235.3100 for additional information or to schedule an appointment.
Registered Dietitian Amanda Ericson joined the Estes Park Health team in August. (Wendy Rigby/Estes Park Health)
By Wendy Rigby Estes Park Health
EConvenient online scheduling now offered at Estes Park Health
stes Park Health is excited to announce the launch of online appointment scheduling through My Health Connection, providing patients with a faster, easier way to book their healthcare appointments. This new feature streamlines access to care, empowering patients to manage their health on their own time.
Patients can access My Health Connection online at uchealth.org/accessmy-health-connection/ or through the My Health Connection mobile app,
available for download on iOS and Android devices.
Through My Health Connection, Estes Park Health patients can:
• Schedule appointments for primary care, specialty services, follow-ups, and urgent visits.
• View real-time availability of healthcare providers.
• Reschedule or cancel appointments with ease.
• Access health records, test results, and other vital information.
The introduction of online scheduling is part of Estes Park Health’s ongoing commitment to improving the patient experience. By leveraging technology, the organization aims to enhance convenience and ensure that every patient receives timely and efficient care.
Our goal at Estes Park Health has always been to
provide high-quality, patientcentered care and with online scheduling, we’re making it easier than ever for our patients to connect with their providers and take charge of their health.
Setting up your My Health Connection account is simple, and support is available for those who need assistance. For appointment and scheduling, please call Estes Park Health at 970.586.2200 with any questions or for assistance with scheduling.
For account related topics, please visit uchealth.org/ access-my-health-connection/ or contact My Health Connection directly at 855.395.9031, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. MST for assistance.
Estes Park Health is excited to announce the launch of online appointment scheduling through My Health Connection
(Wendy Rigby/courtesy photo)
By Jody Street
So you’re tired of the same ole run-of-themill festival you say?
What if I told you there was a gathering of revelers once a year who assemble in a mountain town – to pay homage to a frozen dead guy? Not enough? Alright, I’ll throw in a haunted hotel. Now, do I have your attention? Not yet, ok, fair enough. You’re the
type that needs a little more above-ground excitement – I get it. If constructing a makeshift coffin, putting a speedy yet sturdy team together, and entering a coffin race competition doesn’t get your frozen blood pumping, then I may not be able to help you.
Three solid days of frosty fun are waiting for thrill-seeking, cryo-loving, dance-party-going, costumewearing people just like you.
Personally, I would throw in a kick-the-bucket contest, but I regress.
FROZENDEAD GUYDAYS
at Estes Park
Estes Park will be entering its second year hosting the Frozen Dead Guy Days festival – which will kick off on March 14 and run through March 16. All of the frozen fuss in honor of their collective stiff grandpa – Grandpa Bredo, who is now over 120 years old, cryogenically speaking, of course.
According to organizers, there is a good story behind this, one that stretches from Norway to California to Colorado, involving cryonics, deportation, psychics, celebrations, a dedicated Ice Man and a cryonics rescue mission. It’s a tale that has captured international attention and sparked a must-attend annual event called Frozen Dead Guy Days.
Currently, the body is stored at The Stanley Hotel’s old ice house in Estes Park, where he was submerged head-first in liquid nitrogen. His home is now the world’s only museum dedicated to the science of cryonics.
Kicking it all off will
be a frozen-dead bar and restaurant crawl, almost guaranteed to get your frigid blood warmed up a bit. Unless you plan on sipping on the non-alcoholic suds, in which case, you’ll stay frosty The bars on the route have not been announced as of press time, but if you plan on going and don’t exactly know what to wear, donning a costume is encouraged –but not required. If you get too lit for the crawl, free shuttles are available. Enjoy frozen dead specialty drinks and Zombie bites surrounded by icy decorations, creating a unique and chilling atmosphere.
After the crawl, head on up to The Stanley Hotel, where the party won’t stop –can’t stop. And, if you dress up like Beetlejuice, you’ll fit right in at the costume and dance party – called the Royal Blue Ball. At the Ball, dress as the iconic frozen dead guy, ‘Grandpa Bredo’, or the Ice Queen for a night filled with frozen fun and the electrifying performances of Break Science and DJ Mack.
Estes Park Trail-Gazette
The Royal Blue Ball costume and dance party. (Estes Park Trail-Gazette).
Day 2 of the event is the actual festival at the Estes Park Events Complex, located at 1125 Rooftop Way. Coffin races, live music, wild games, and more are all on tap. Yep, coffin races. Enthusiasts dress up in their morbid duds, bear a pall, and race to the finish line. Live music will also grace the airwaves – giving new and profound meaning to “live music”.
Rounding out the 3 days of deadpan fun will be a polar plunge at The Stanley Hotel, where festival goers take a dive into some frigid water. After knocking off the ice from your beards and tiaras, indulge in the Bands and Bloodys Brunch – the location is yet to be named.
Bands scheduled to play include:
Lotus – Innovators in blending electronic dance music with the jam band model of improvisation, have captivated audiences with their high-energy, danceinducing shows and intrepid studio work. Drawing from genres such as psychedelic rock, krautrock, postrock, disco, and funk, the four-piece band is known for their festival-favorite performances and intriguing songwriting.
Kellar Williams – Keller is best known for his whimsical lyrics, guitar prowess, and for creating samples on the fly in front of the audience, a technique called live phrase sampling or looping, with nothing pre-recorded. The end result often leans toward a hybrid of alternative folk
and groovy electronica, a genre Keller jokingly calls “acoustic dance music” or ADM.”
Michael Menert – A youth steeped in a broad swath of both Eastern and Western musical traditions gives Michal Menert a deep palate from which to draw. Menert’s style of production combines vintage vinyl sample collage with analog synths and a futuristic hip-hop element, creating a soulful blend of nostalgia and innovation.
A-Mac & The Height –
Represents a unique musical experience of unity and adventurous fusion of genres. With hook-driven songwriting and a cohesive blend of reggae, hip-hop, funk and alternative rock – the group thrives on overcoming musical boundaries. Their immersive message and feel-good energy
has proven to bring together beautiful people from coast to coast.
Taylor Scott Band –Creates his own colorful hybrid of roots-rock, funk, soul, and troubadour-style Americana. It’s a sound that’s as diverse as its creator, whipped into sharp shape by a musician who’s equal parts guitar hero and singer/ songwriter craftsman.
Sqwerv – Denver’s electrifying Indie-Jam Band, Sqwerv, is a nationally touring quartet that brings elements of classic rock, psychedelic music, funk, and jam fusion for an experience like no other. The band explores rich sonic realms with a depth of improvisational virtuosity. Their passion for well-crafted songs and blended harmonies set this group apart in their scene
Stepmother Nature –
Hailing from the rugged backdrop of Estes Park, Colorado, Stepmother Nature is a vibrant mountain funk band that seamlessly blends eclectic styles into an electrifying sound. Formed in 2022, the group has quickly gained a reputation for their infectious grooves, inviting audiences to dance and connect.
Buster & The Boomers –Based right here in Estes Park, featuring the Mayor of Estes Park himself, this vibrant band embodies the essence of Colorado’s Classic Rock scene, igniting the stage with a high-octane performance.
Décollage – A
kaleidoscopic avant-pop band creating space for imagination. Their music transports the listener into the psychic depths of a bouncy house.
Coffin Race competition. (Estes Park Trail-Gazette).
Three solid days of frosty fun are waiting for thrill-seeking, cryo-loving, dance-party-going, costume-wearing people just like you (Estes Park Trail-Gazette)
HEALTH NEWS
New Breast Health Center project at Estes Park Health and 2025 Gala fundraiser planned
By Wendy Rigby Estes Park Health
Estes Park Health unveiled an exciting new project for the hospital at a special board meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 3, 2024, at Town Hall.
The hospital is planning to upgrade the Diagnostic Imaging Center Renovations include a designated Breast Health Center
Ingrid Drouin is a member of the Estes Park Health Foundation and Chair of a new gala event called “An Evening of Mountaintop Medicine.”
She detailed the long and important history of the Estes Park Health Foundation which started in 1986. The EPH Foundation has helped engage the community and obtain philanthropic support. The Foundation is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors.
Its mission is to “increase community awareness of Estes Park Health, and develop, manage and distribute funds to assist EPH in fulfilling its mission.”
The Foundation’s vision is to create “an environment that fosters wellness and excellent health care for all.”
In highlighting the community impact of the Foundation, Drouin mentioned money that helped fund the 3D mammography unit, the MRI, the ultrasound needle biopsy, and the fluoroscopy machine. She also mentioned the money from the Foundation that helped the construction of negative pressure rooms during the pandemic. She thanked the Elizabeth Guild Thrift
Store for its contributions, including money for scholarships for EPH employees wanting to get further medical education. She also mentioned the Trail Ridge Quilters who are part of the Foundation now and raise money with their quilt sales.
Drouin also announced a brand-new event debuting on May 17, 2025. The Foundation will be hosting a fundraising gala called “An Evening of Mountaintop Medicine.” The event will be part of a celebration of Estes Park Health’s 50th anniversary. The gala will take place at The Pavilion at The Stanley and will include cocktails, a silent auction, dinner, inspirational speakers, a live auction, and live music and dancing. The theme is “Boots to Boutonnieres.”
The purpose of the event is to raise $200,000 for a new Diagnostic Imaging Center at Estes Park Health. The upgrade to the DI department will enhance functionality and productivity. The project is also designed to provide emotional comfort in a more private and patient-centered environment. The value of becoming involved in this gala is threefold, Drouin said.
• Strengthening Patient Care Through Innovation
• Expanding Access to Diagnostic Imaging Services
• Celebrating Community-Driven Impact
To contact the Foundation, email giving@eph.org or
tbrynard@eph.org. You can also contact Ingrid Drouin directly if you have any questions or you are interested in buying a table, donating an item for auction, or volunteering for the event. Her phone number is (847) 337-7126. Her email address is ingriddrouin@ gmail.com. Jacob Schmitz, Senior Director of Support Services at EPH, presented a project overview Part of the Diagnostic Imaging department will be made into a Breast Health Center. The plan includes:
• Reconstruct part of the current DI department to add a designated “Breast Health Center.”
• Modalities: DEXA, Ultrasound, Mammography in proximity.
• Features: designated waiting rooms, changing rooms, integrated patient experience.
• Indications: enhanced patient experience, enhanced patient flow, enhanced space planning due to contiguously located modalities.
This revamping is part of a larger Facility Master Plan
Estes Park Health unveiled its plan to upgrade the Diagnostic Imaging Center and include a designated Breast Health Center at a special board meeting in December at Town Hall.
that includes other areas of interest including the surgical suite, phlebotomy, lowerlevel outpatient services, and the clinic. Evaluating community needs and service line utilization is part of the master planning process. A look at Estes Park Demographics (2022) tells part of the story:
• 60.9 years median age in Estes Park (vs CO median age of 37.9 years)
• Largest demographic segment is 51 –75-year-olds
The average age of US women diagnosed with breast cancer is 62 years old. Women who receive regular screenings for breast cancer have a 26% lower breast cancer death rate than women who did not receive screenings.
The Breast Health-related service lines at EPH are
growing steadily EPH now has on-site radiologist Dr John Knudtson (who joined the hospital in March 2022). The hospital also offers diagnostic mammograms on the 3D machine, MRI breast exams, and a new ultrasound that will allow EPH to start offering ultrasound-guided needle biopsies in mid-2025.
“The Breast Health Center will enhance the patient experience, improve patient flow, and optimize space planning due to contiguously located modalities,” Schmitz said. “The Breast Health Center could serve as ‘phase on’ staging for future DI departmental remodeling.”
EPH is also considering adding a Breast Health Navigator in 2025.
Radiologist Dr John Knudtson and Diagnostic Imaging Manager Jenn Hardin also addressed the board and the attendees. “It’s a pleasure to see this start to come to fruition,” Dr Knudtson stated. “This
will be a great asset for the entire community I am super excited about the prospect of this improvement.”
Dr Knudtson stressed that testing for breast cancer is already a nerve-wracking and anxiety-ridden time for patients. Getting the physical facility to match the excellent imaging equipment will enhance the patients’ experience. Add to that Dr Knudtson’s fast, accurate and actionable reports, and patients in the Estes Valley will be receiving quality, state-of-the-art care close to home.
Board member Steve Alper said, “This is a great project that will benefit the community and meet the needs of many patients.”
Board Vice Chair Drew Webb commented, “I am happy employees had the foresight to see what we needed.”
Board member Brigitte Foust added, “I am excited to see the progress being made
with our state-of-the-art equipment.”
Board Chair David Batey remarked that this project is a good example of the fact that Estes Park Health and the Estes Park Health Foundation have aligned goals.
Board member Cory Workman said, “I appreciate the Foundation and the work that they do. I look forward to seeing this project move forward.”
Webb told the Gala committee he would be the first to buy a table for the May 17th event.
Since the total cost of renovations for this project exceeds the spending authority of the CEO, the board was required to authorize it. By a unanimous vote, the board said it fully supports the plans for the Gala and the special project, which is estimated at $450,000, with up to $250,000 to be contributed from EPH.
SKIN
CARE
7 tips to protect your skin in winter weather
oil can also help to create a barrier on the skin to keep it sealed and protected.
By Dawn Wilson for Estes Park Trail-Gazette
It never fails. The heat comes on in the house, the snow starts to fall outside and those cuticles start to crack on the hands. Cold, dry, windy weather has arrived, and with it the challenge of keeping skin and lips moisturized.
But that dry, cracked skin can be prevented with these seven simple tips.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, keeping exposed skin on our hands and face covered when outdoors in the cold is one of the most important ways to prevent skin dehydration or reduce damage that has already developed. Soft fleece neck warmers or scarves that can be brought up over the chin and mouth work well for the face and neck. Hats can help protect ears
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, keeping exposed skin on our hands and face covered when outdoors in the cold is one of the most important ways to prevent skin dehydration or reduce damage that has already developed.
and gloves will cover up the hands.
Covering up also includes protecting lips from chapping by wearing a lip balm. Ideally the lip balm should have moisture-sealing ingredients, like petrolatum, silicone, lanolin, shea butter and waxes, like bees wax, work well. Avoid menthol, camphor, fragrances, alcohol and salicylic acid in lip balms, as these ingredients can actually cause dry lips.
Consider purchasing a humidifier to use when
sleeping. Sleep is important to give skin time to heal from the harsh elements it was exposed to during the day, but adding a humidifier while sleeping can add moisture back into the air to help hydrate skin while it is recuperating.
As important as it is to frequently wash hands, in winter time it is equally important to use warm water instead of hot, as the heat can dry out skin. Be gentle on the skin when washing hands and face so not to scrub away the protective outer layer of skin.
Immediately after washing hands, rub on lotion to help trap the moisture. The best lotions are thick creams that need to be worked into the skin and contain linoleic, linolenic or lauric acids to help relieve dry skin. Lanolin, silicone and mineral
The benefits of sunscreen are well known for summer use. But those high SPF lotions can also be beneficial in the winter from protecting skin not just from the sun’s harmful rays but from the reflective rays bouncing off bright snow that reach areas under the chin, nose and eyes that are not frequently exposed to bright UV rays at other times of the year. And finally, drink plenty of water ter consumption should be a part of any health routine, with the goal of drinking between 11 and 15 cups of water a day, according to the Mayo Clinic. This amount can be higher, however, depending on activity level, outdoor exposure and how much water may be consumed in other liquid drinks. Time spent at higher elevation also requires increased water intake.
The secret to keeping skin healthy during the cold, dry winter months is to prevent skin and lips from drying out to begin with. Repairing itchy, dry skin and cracked lips takes a lot of work so staying ahead of the challenge goes a long way to keeping your skin comfortable and healthy throughout the winter season.
The wind whips the snow off the peaks of Rocky Mountain National Park, a good reminder to protect our skin and lips from the elements of winter conditions (Dawn Wilson Photography)
HEALTH
How hearing loss impacts your health
Cory Workman,Au.D., Community Hearing Center
With the advent of technology, much of our life involves being connected via our smartphones, our smart devices, or through various portals on the Internet. We as people value connections and look to find purpose in being connected with those we care about, the ideals that we care about, and the various forms of entertainment we like to enjoy
The pace of technology changes so fast that there are new ways to connect and engage across the world almost every day So what does that have to do with hearing?
Untreated hearing loss is becoming more and more of a health concern in the United States. The average person first notices hearing loss and then waits up to 7 years to get help The average here is interesting because the actual numbers indicate people either seek care for their hearing within the first 18 months or wait until nearly 10 years. During that time, a person’s hearing may continue to change and communication areas of the brain receive less and less input. Several studies in the last 5 years have looked at the rate of cognitive decline as it relates to hearing loss. Hearing and communication is a task that requires significant effort from the brain. When hearing loss is present the resources of the brain are strained with additional listening effort and trying to understand what is being said from other context.
Researchers have found that the cognitive load on the brain reduces other functioning tasks and can
reduce mental acuity, speed, and can lead to overall reduction in brain capacity over time due to the increased strain from hearing loss
It also appears that just like a muscle, connections in the brain that are not used or receive less stimulation will shrink and become less robust. Researchers have suggested that providing clear sound signals to the brain can keep these pathways healthy, thus preserving communication and allowing the brain to spread resources to other functions keeping the overall state healthy
Researchers have found hearing loss can affect the overall well-being of a person as well. Hearing loss has been associated with accelerated cognitive decline and emotional distress leading to depression.
Those with hearing loss tend to avoid social situations given the difficulty of communicating and the frustration of having to ask others to repeat constantly
Being able to hear clearly and understand conversation allows for people to continue to remain active in social circles and to enjoy the company of others.
So what to do? Are you or someone you care about asking others to repeat
Untreated hearing loss is becoming more and more of a health concern in the United States. The average person first notices hearing loss and then waits up to 7 years to get help.
frequently what has been said? Are you or someone you care about listening to the television at a loud level and yet still having difficulty following the dialogue? If so, it is time to visit with an audiologist.
Visiting with an audiologist and establishing a baseline hearing test is the first step in this process. A baseline hearing test not only looks
at your hearing ability and acuity but is also meant to judge the overall health of your ears.
Both of which are extremely important.
Working with an audiologist you can determine the level of your hearing loss. During this time working with the audiologist you can also discuss better communication strategies for both you and your loved ones as well as appropriate technology to assist you in better hearing. A continued relationship with the trusted audiologist is important for the future and the overall health of your hearing and communication abilities.
Cory Workman,Au.D. Board Certified Audiologist Community Hearing Center (970)-586-5255
The Community Hearing Center was established in 1989 and is now owned and operated by Board-Certified Audiologist, Cory Workman,Au.D (Courtesy Image / Estes Park Trail-Gazette).
Estes Park Health unveils new ultrasound with needle biopsy capabilities
Project funded by 2024 Mrs. Rooftop Rodeo campaign
By Wendy Rigby Estes Park Health
The newest piece of equipment in the Diagnostic Imaging department of Estes Park Health was purchased through the generous fundraising efforts of the 2024 Mrs. Rooftop Rodeo candidates.
The 10 candidates for Mrs. Rooftop Rodeo raised a record-breaking amount of money during the 2024 campaign. Altogether, these volunteers gathered $120,000 to fund a brand-new needle biopsy ultrasound machine for the hospital. This technology will — among other things — help with finding cancers and evaluating treatment. Medical professionals can now perform needle biopsies at EPH using this new piece of equipment.
“Mrs. Rooftop Rodeo has done a little bit of magic once again for the Estes Valley,” said Sherry Unruh, chairperson of the Mrs. Rooftop Rodeo subcommittee of Fund Development for the Estes Park Health Foundation
“This community is blessed to have had 10 candidates in the Mrs. Rooftop Rodeo Competition last June, and every single one of them contributed no less than $2,000 to this effort. Many went way beyond that. Elana Nedobukh raised the most money and was crowned Mrs. Rooftop Rodeo 2024.”
Nedobukh could not have done this all by herself. She had nine other women supporting her and contributing to the health and well-being of Estes
Valley patients. The other candidates were Ania Leahy, Breeyan Edwards, Candy Wall, Carissa Streib, Kate Arterburn, Katie Bohlke, Maggie Rothermel, Sarah Fink and Shari Hightower.
“From garage sales to video bingo to sponsorships from local businesses, the Mrs. Rooftop candidates went over and above any other candidates from years past to raise enough money for this fabulous machine which also spawned a new line of care at Estes Park Health,” Unruh added.
“This community is blessed to have had 10 candidates in the Mrs. Rooftop Rodeo Competition last June, and every single one of them contributed no less than $2,000 to this effort.”
Founded in 2016, the Mrs. Rooftop Rodeo program has raised almost a half million dollars. The group will again be sponsoring the Paint Estes Pink/Mrs. Rooftop Rodeo competition in 2025 with the help and support of the Estes Park Health Foundation. This partnership has been in place since 2017. With the help of Sue Cooper, chairperson, and her Board as well as the Estes Park Health administration, the program looks to maintain its mission of raising funds to support the care, treatment,
and diagnosis of people fighting cancer and other diseases.
Support from EPH radiologist Dr John Knudtson has also been a relationship of mutual respect and admiration. His guidance has helped make the diagnostic imaging department at EPH into a state-of-the-art facility.
Mrs. Rooftop Rodeo has contributed to or been the sole fundraiser for the new DEXA (Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) bone scanning machine, a new 3D mammography machine, the outfitting of the wound clinic, a pending make-over of the infusion center, a new MRI machine, new infusion pumps for those taking their cancer treatments at the hospital, and many other services and care necessities.
(BACK ROW: LEFT TO RIGHT) Candy Wall, 2024 candidate; Ania Leahy, 2024 candidate; Dr John Knudtson, EPH Radiologist; Kate Arterburn, 2024 candidate; Pat Samples EPH Chief Nursing Officer; Sue Cooper EPH Foundation Chairperson (Front row left to right) Breeyan Edwards 2024 candidate; Elena Nedobukh (crown and Mrs Rooftop Rodeo 2024); Maggie Rothermel, 2024 candidate; Linda Moak, Founder of the Mrs Rooftop Rodeo program (Photo by Linda Lambert/Estes Park Health Foundation).
The Mrs. Rooftop Rodeo competition is held in conjunction with Estes Park’s Rooftop Rodeo the first week of July each year
The town’s support, along with the support of Rooftop Rodeo leadership, has been a major factor in the success this program has enjoyed over the last eight years.
The program’s founder, Linda Moak, and the chairperson, Sherry Unruh, are grateful for the many hours candidates and committee volunteers have put into the program.
“We hope that many Estes Park women will consider becoming candidates for the 2025 Rodeo season and experience the phenomenon that is Mrs. Rooftop Rodeo,” Unruh remarked “The joy of contributing cancer diagnostics, care, and treatment to those fighting the cancer battle is overwhelming. We invite you to accept the challenge to help your friends and neighbors in need. Whether
as a candidate or donor, your involvement is essential.”
Capabilities of new ultrasound machine
“The 2024 Mrs. Rooftop Rodeo was extremely successful,” said registered sonographer and radiographer Marcy Kimbro.
“They always are in raising the money, making people aware in the community, and now we have yet another state-of-the-art, brand new 2024 ultrasound machine.”
This modality uses sound to produce images of the inside of the body. These images help EPH’s onsite radiologist, Dr John Knudtson, determine if there is an injury or disease process going on.
“We can capture images of fatty liver disease or kidney stones or gall bladder disease,” Kimbro explained. “We can possibly find cancers like bladder cancer or prostate cancer or breast cancer We can do a carotid ultrasound to find plaque
in the vessels. We can look for reproductive issues in the ovaries, uterus, IUD placements, and many more things.”
Ultrasound technologist Debbie Sells said the old ultrasound machine was not new to begin with and was reaching the end of its life.
“Machines become outdated pretty quickly in this day and age,” Sells stated. “The newer functions on this machine will allow us to offer some new services. This piece of equipment will allow us the detail that it takes us to perform needle aspirations and needle biopsies.”
A trainer from the company that makes the new ultrasound needle biopsy machine was at EPH last week training the three sonographers who will be using it. The applications specialist works for Philips, the company that makes the EPIQ Elite Diagnostic Ultrasound system now in use. She brainstormed with
the people who use the machine to add capabilities they need and take away those they don’t need.
The machine is vital in keeping Estes Valley patients from having to drive a long way to get a quick diagnostic test. Now that EPH can perform needle biopsies, local patients can get an appointment — and possibly an answer — more quickly
Sells pointed out that the most enjoyable part of her job performing ultrasounds is the direct patient interaction.
“We can teach the patient about something they may see on the screen,” she noted. “They want to know what it is. We can describe certain basic functions of the machine. It helps to educate the community as well as make them feel comfortable.”
To listen to a podcast about the new ultrasound capabilities at Estes Park Health, go to tinyurl.com/ tmd9f3bs
Find your perfect place to
STAY IN ESTES PARK
By Kendall Akin
Visit Estes Park
Where you call home base can make all the difference when it comes to your vacation. Luckily you can’t go wrong in Estes Park when mountain views are included with every stay. When choosing where to lay your head however, we all tend to prioritize different things. Are you on a budget? Looking for a romantic riverside cabin? A place that will entertain your kids for days? We put together some ideas based on the type of trip you’re yearning for
For the OutdoorMinded: Trailborn
Rocky Mountains
Trailborn offers modern rooms with thoughtful
amenities like complimentary s’mores at their lively firepits and a delicious restaurant on site, Casa Colina. Didn’t have room for your cooler on the plane? Every room at Trailborn has an insulated cooler for you to borrow during your stay They partner with local businesses and guides to offer incredible experiences ready to book from their website. Did you bring your little ones? You can book an “in-room camping experience” for them
For the whole family: YMCA of the Rockies
This isn’t your average YMCA. You could never leave this property during your visit and still get a fulfilling Estes Park experience with the family. They have it all: dog friendly trails, arts and crafts, sledding, ice skating, fishing,
miniature golf… the list goes on. This is the perfect place to gather your family unit or if you’re brave enough, invite all the branches of your family tree.
For the winter lovers: Castle Mountain Lodge
Watch the snow fall from one of these charming cabins and enhance your stay with one of their one-of-a-kind packages. From the sweetheart package to the snowshoe package, Castle Mountain Lodge will take care of you. Our pick is the Old Fashioned Christmas Package. Marvel at their holiday light display, take a trip into the backcountry to cut down the perfect Christmas tree and say hello to Santa. This is truly the snowy holiday experience you and your kids have been dreaming of.
For the remote workers: The Holiday Inn
This hotel features modern suites with the perfect desk making for the best commute. If you want to work outside the room, the Holiday Inn also has fun lounge spaces and is connected to Latitude 105 so you can take your next meeting with a burger nearby Its central location allows you to get out on the town right as the clock hits 5 p.m.
For the romantic: Boulder Brook
Tucked away on Fall River between downtown and RMNP, this is the cabin vibe you’re looking for in any and all seasons. Reserve the romantic spa suite and enjoy your private deck, cozy fireplace and jacuzzi tub with river views.
A fall scene in Estes Park showing the historic Stanley Hotel and the distant mountains of Rocky Mountain National Park (Dawn Wilson Photography)
For the homey ones: Windcliff Vacation Rentals
Live vicariously through these dream homes during your mountain stay. Choose from condos with panoramic views and houses with private hot tubs and prioritize solitude. The cool thing about staying in a vacation rental is that you do truly feel at home during your vacation.
For those on a budget or looking to go green:
The Discovery Lodge
Going on vacation can be a bank breaker but it doesn’t have to be if you stay at Coyote Mountain Lodge or its sister property the Discovery Lodge, both extremely centrally located. Discovery Lodge has a variety of room options guaranteed to meet your needs whether you’re traveling solo or bringing the whole family including your dog! Both properties are dedicated to running an ecofriendly business. Seventy-five percent of their energy comes from solar panels, they have paperless check-in, use eco-friendly detergent and implement many more green initiatives. Can’t go wrong with these two.
For
the Classic:
The Stanley Hotel
Known for inspiring Steven King to write “The Shining,”
this place is overflowing with stories. Offering four kinds of accommodations, delicious restaurants and bars and quite a few unique experiences, the Stanley Hotel is a grand, luxurious hotel offering stunning views of the peaks of Estes Park. Brunch & Co features dishes like “Here’s Johnny” and “Danny Boy,” the Post Chicken and Beer has savory southern comfort food in a laid back atmosphere and the Cascades Restaurant & Lounge offers Colorado’s largest selection of whiskeys and an upscale food menu. Looking for more whiskey? Head downstairs to the
Vault for private, curated tastings of whiskeys only found at The Stanley Hotel. Your guide will explore a little whiskey history, classifications (What’s a bourbon?), and the best way to enjoy it (however you like). Of course, a stay at The Stanley Hotel would not be complete without a tour: Shining-themed, history focused or even a frozen dead guy tour.
For Downtown Comfort: Silver Moon Inn
A perfect blend of comfort and convenience, Silver Moon Inn offers a serene
escape along Fall River while still being steps away from downtown Estes Park. Surround yourself with the sounds of the river, picnic in the next-door Performance Park, and unwind in the hot tub after a day of exploring the nearby trails With dogfriendly rooms available, you and your furry companion can both enjoy the beauty of nature and the charm of this delightful inn. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Silver Moon Inn has everything you need for a memorable stay.
For the Solitude Seekers: Castle Mountain Lodge
Nothing whispers “mountain getaway” quite like Castle Mountain Lodge. Imagine a cozy cabin with your own private hot tub, the soothing sounds of the river, a crackling fireplace, and fresh-baked cookies waiting for you on arrival. Step out of your cabin and onto a trail leading to Rocky Mountain National Park. Wander down to the river and fish for trout (they have poles you can borrow). And if you’re patient, you’re likely to see wildlife wandering through the grounds, too!
The entrance to YMCA of the Rockies on Highway 66in Estes Park. (Dawn Wilson Photography)
Windcliff vacation homes offer comfort and style (John Berry/Visit Estes Park - Courtesy Photo)
•Allergy &Asthma
•Cardiology
•CPAPFittings
•Chemotherapy and InfusionClinic
•Dermatology
•Ear,Nose &Throat
•FamilyMedicine
•Gastroenterology
•General Surgery
•Internal Medicine
•Neurology
•Oncology
•Ophthalmology
•Orthopedic Surgery
•PacemakerClinic
•PainManagement
•Pediatrics
•Pulmonology
•SleepDisorders
•Urology
