MAY 2020
www.wcfcourier.com/bookshelf
2 | Sunday, May 3, 2020
SALUTE TO HEALTH CARE HEROES
thank you! hospital ♥ heroes
You are
the smiles behind the masks. friends who never quit.
family members when we need them most.
our heroes ... every day.
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Hospital heroes
Iowa’s health care workers meet COVID-19’s challenges
D
uring this demanding period of the COVID-19 outbreak, we would like to thank our health care workers – physicians, nurses, patient care assistants, ambulance drivers and paramedics, the cleaning teams – all those working in hospitals and clinics and all those unseen working night and day to keep us safe. Health care providers statewide have worked around the clock to care for those who have fallen ill. Our health care heroes have selflessly staffed the front lines as we work to contain the COVID-19 outbreak that, at the time of this writing, has infected more than 2,500 Iowans and spread to more than 80% of Iowa’s 99 counties. As COVID-19 infects more people, caregivers endure long hours, intensifying conditions and the fear of contracting the virus themselves. But on-the-job sacrifices are only part of the story. Because of their close contact with sick patients, many health care workers have elected to quarantine themselves from their own families. Their only contact with family members may be over video chats or occasional in-person conversations from a distance. Beyond the personal aspect of the pandemic response, many of our facilities are struggling to offer services and, in several cases, keep their doors open just as their communities most need them. Hospitals have had to cancel appointments and procedures and often pay higher prices for equipment that has been in short supply. Iowa
hospitals create an enormous economic impact statewide and provide more than 76,000 jobs in countless communities. These jobs pay more than $5 billion in salaries and benefits each year. This places Iowa hospitals among the largest, and most-important, employers in their communities. But with the cancellation or significant reduction in services in response to the pandemic, Iowa hospitals have incurred a 46% decline in revenue in just one month. Through it all, hospital employees have remained steadfast to their mission and committed to caring for their patients and each other. We admire your sacrifice, your courage and your hope — a hope that better things are always ahead, that we can get through even the toughest of times, that we are stronger than any challenge that comes our way, and that you are where you are meant to be and doing what you are meant to do. During these tough times, hope is the very thing that will carry many of us through this difficult time. Since 2007, the Iowa Hospital Association and its members have celebrated Iowa Hospital Heroes through a ceremony at the association’s annual meeting each fall. More than 100 employees who have acted courageously in a crisis or who have provided exemplary service to their hospitals and communities have been recognized. This year, that criteria applies to all hospital employees, so the Iowa Hospital Association is broadening the focus from individual heroes to celebrating the dedication and accomplishments of all 76,000+ Iowa hospital employees serving heroically during the COVID-19
PHOTO COURTESY OF IHA
pandemic. Putting their health and safety at risk, our health care employees work under unimaginable pressure, saving lives, offering comfort and carrying the grief over those who couldn’t be saved. And though many are weary, they persevere for the greater good. Iowa’s hospital and health care providers are on the front lines of the fight against an unprecedented pandemic, and they are responding to COVID-19 while continuing to offer the quality care Iowans depend on even in the worst of times. It’s inspiring to see and hear about the collaboration among caregivers as everyone works together to overcome the issues we’re facing. The Iowa Hospital Association is proud and extremely grateful for the state’s compassionate caregivers during crisis. Thank you.
While many Cedar Valley residents are doing what we can to help stop the spread of COVID-19, our hard-working nurses, doctors and hospital administrators and staff, and others on the front lines continue their vitally important duties of protecting and improving the health and well-being of people in this community. They deserve our gratitude and respect. In this Health Care Heroes edition, we asked local health care heroes to tell their stories. Their dedication and expertise are helping the Cedar Valley’s health care system meet the challenges of the coronavirus pandemic. We at The Courier ask that you join us in celebrating these heroes, while keeping them in your prayers for their safety.
David C. Adams, General Manager
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Good works
SALUTE TO HEALTH CARE HEROES
Amid virus gloom, glimpses of human decency
SALLY STAPLETON
Associated Press
NEW YORK — The idea formed on a day when all the news headlines were dire. The coronavirus was surging worldwide; Nashville had lost lives in a devastating tornado and children had their lives upended as they separated from beloved classmates to shelter at home. But only bad news is never the whole story. Days later, The Associated Press started its daily series “One Good Thing” to reflect the unheralded sacrifices made to benefit others that normally wouldn’t make a story, but maybe always deserved one. Since March 17, when a Norwegian mom tried to soften the blow of birthdays under quarantine for her two teens by asking via social media that people reach out to them, there have been 35 stories about the ways that everyday people have tried to make a positive difference in the lives of others. The gestures have been grand and small, some as simple as chalk-written messages on a sidewalk thanking healthcare workers at a New Orleans hospital for their efforts. Music has been a central theme. The series has included stories about a Rio firefighter sharing his love of music from
AP PHOTO/LUCA BRUNO
Italian professional cyclist Davide Martinelli, delivers medicine to Cristina, an elderly resident, in Lodetto, near Brescia, Northern Italy.
AP PHOTO/JESSIE WARDARSKI
In this March 19, 2020 photo, Freida Rothman drops off a meal for a Holocaust survivor in Brooklyn, New York. Volunteers like Rothman are helping ensure Holocaust survivors isolated in their homes because of coronavirus concerns have access to food. a hydraulic ladder 150 feet up as he played the trumpet for cooped-up apartment dwellers; a virtual rendition of “Bolero” from the National Orchestra of France, with each musician playing alone at home; the vir-
tual Corona Community Choir with members around the world, performing on Sundays. If music soothes the soul, food feeds it. There have been six stories that tell of benefactors feeding health care workers, the
poor, the elderly shut ins, even volunteers feeding hungry animals at a revered Hindu temple in Kathmandu, Nepal. There have been meals from Brooklyn caterer Israel Frischman for Holocaust sur-
vivors who are shut in. The day after the story ran, donations poured in and now Frischman has financial backing for the needed meals. And simpler fare from the “Solidarity Menu” started by Emiliano Moscoso, who employed his hamburger chain of restaurants in Colombia to feed poor neighborhoods in Bogota. The delivery of lifesaving supplies has been a storyline as well, from the professional cyclist in Please see GOOD WORKS, Page 19
Share your support for health care heroes with hearts STAFF WRITER
ATERLOO – Each day heroes across W Iowa continue to serve their communities to prepare and prevent the spread of COVID-19. MercyOne, one of Iowa’s largest health care systems, invites community members to show their support
for health care and all essential workers by displaying printed hearts on windows or digital hearts on social media. Community members are invited to visit MercyOne.org/ covid19 to order a T-shirt or window decals where proceeds will help fund the
MercyOne COVID-19 Relief Fund. be shared with health care workers in Additionally, community members MercyOne care locations across Iowa. can print hearts in a variety of colors “We thank the community for their or download and share ongoing support during this on social media. Please time,” said Bob Ritz, MercyOne share your hearts on President and CEO. “We are social media using the proud of our health care hehashtag #PowerofMerroes who are working tirelessly cyOne. The photos will to treat and care for all in need.”
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SALUTE TO HEALTH CARE HEROES
MercyOne colleagues demonstrate Power of One Last year, MercyOne implemented five core cultural beliefs – Be ONE, Own It!, Personalize Care, Innovate and Improve Daily. Never before have those beliefs been more important, and MercyOne colleagues have demonstrated those beliefs tremendously during these unprecedented times. “I’m so proud of the ways our colleagues, and MercyOne as a whole, have come together to help care for our patients during this COVID-19 pandemic,” said Jack Dusenbery, president and CEO of MercyOne Northeast Iowa. “The flexibility, courage and spirit displayed has been incredible to witness.” Teams cross training to float to departments where needed, health care workers picking up extra hours, a team coming together to open our dedicated fever and respiratory clinic and providers learning how to conduct virtual visits are just a few examples of how our colleagues have adapted locally to make sure our patients are being taken care of. PHOTO COURTESY OF MERCYONE
Please see MERCYONE, Page 17
Heroes work here.
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SALUTE TO HEALTH CARE HEROES
Thanks to superhero long-term care employees We can’t thank our employees enough for the commitment and professionalism they have displayed in the past number of weeks since COVID-19 changed the way we all care for residents. The life of a nursing home employee and all of our health care providers now involves being screened for a fever and signs and symptoms of COVID-19 upon entering the building. It involves feeding most residents in their rooms instead of communal dining. It includes providing activities individually instead of in a group. It includes helping residents and families communicate via telephone or video conferencing. It includes wearing personal protective equipment during their entire shift. It means being in a job where you can’t work from home. In this heightened time of awareness when a highly contagious virus is finding its way into our everyday lives, and knowing it can hit health care facilities especially hard, our employees still come Please see LONG-TERM, Page 17
PHOTO COURTESY OF CARE INITIATIVES
Ravenwood employees gather for a photo. The photo was taken before PPE requirements were put in place.
We LOVE all of our Employees! Our Healthcare Heroes! May 6-12 National Nurses Week
Skilled Nursing Care Long Term Care Rehabilitation-to-Home Hospice Care
May 10-16 National Nursing Home Week
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SALUTE TO HEALTH CARE HEROES
UNI, Allen College partnership gives students a leg up CEDAR FALLS — The path to a career in health care can take many forms, and the University of Northern Iowa offers several routes thanks to a unique partnership with Allen College. The partnership provides options for students interested in careers as nurses, medical lab technicians and more. Most of the tracks lead to dual degrees, giving graduates a leg up in their job search and in their futures. Several degree tracks are 3+1 programs, which require the equivalent of three years of coursework at UNI and a final year at Allen. One option allows students to earn a Bachelor of Science in nursing from Allen College, while also earning a Bachelor of Arts in individual studies: health sciences from UNI. Students complete their liberal arts and major requirements at UNI, and then pursue admission to the BSN program at Allen College. Another 3+1 program culminates in a degree in biology, which opens a variety of doors in the healthcare industry. “Students get their liberal arts and core biology courses from UNI,” said Linda
“The liberal arts bachelor’s (from UNI) provides a foundation for growth and flexibility.” Linda Emery, individual studies coordinator at UNI
PHOTO COURTESY OF UNI
Reardon-Lowry, adviser for UNI’s biology department. They then complete their nursing requirements at Allen. Other routes include 2+2 programs in radiography and diagnostic medical sonography. Similar to the 3+1 programs, these require two years at each school,
leading to two degrees. One such program is individual studies: applied health sciences with Allen’s radiography program, as well as a 2+2 dual degree program in individual studies: applied health sciences with Allen’s diagnostic medical sonography program.
With all of these, students complete their liberal arts courses and some degree-specific courses at UNI, then transfer to Allen for the bulk of their program courses. In the end, students graduate with a degree from UNI as well as a degree from Allen College, all in the time it generally takes to earn a single degree. Having dual degrees opens up even more choices for graduates as they look at career options now and years down the road. “The liberal arts bachelor’s (from UNI) provides a foundation for growth and flexibility,” said Linda Emery, individual studies coordinator at UNI, who oversees several of the degree options for UNI. Please see PARTNERSHIP, Page 18
TODAY. TOMORROW. ALWAYS. We are grateful for everything you do to keep our community safe and healthy. You are our heroes — today and every day.
Thank you.
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| SUNDAY, MAY 3, 2020
SALUTE TO HEALTH CARE HEROES
Serving seniors brings joy
TO NURSES, CAREGIVERS CEDAR FALLS — Talk about unsung heroes. Long-term care nurses, certified nurse assistants (CNAs) and caregivers display devotion to the residents and clients they serve, whether they’re working in a nursing home, assisted living or a private home in the community at large. Now, more than ever, their compassion and creativity shine as they care for the population most at risk of serious illness from COVID-19. “It feels so natural to care for our residents,” says Amy Frost, RN, assistant administrator at Martin Suites, a Western Home Communities nursing home near downtown Cedar Falls. “This is the most rewarding form of nursing because our residents need the most basic help to make their day meaningful and maintain their dignity.” Frost, an employee for more than 23 years, says close bonds with residents are more crucial than ever. “We’re their only touch to the outside world and their only human contact. So it’s essential that each resident receive person-to-person attention and care,” she said. “We are a family for sure.” That’s a common theme from employees who choose to work with older adults. They typically express a desire to connect more deeply with residents who are navigating their later years, and building relationships over months and years is important to them. “I believe helping someone through the final years of their life is just as important as providing care through an acute issue,” said Angie Higham, RN, director of nursing at Deery Suites, a Western Home Communities nursing home in south Cedar Falls. Higham understands grief and loss; her own mother died when Angie was just 3. A grandmother often talked of her desire to be a nurse, and that had an impact on Angie’s career choice. She admits the current climate creates a challenge, since visitors are restricted. She often holds the hands of residents and sets up video chats. “We try to keep them calm and happy. We provide them reassurance
PHOTO COURTESY OF WESTERN HOME
Christine Storey, RN, prepares to deliver medications to residents of Stanard Family Assisted Living. and unconditional love to get through this hard time.” It’s additional work – and worry – as everyone takes additional steps at home and on the job, doing what they can to protect the health of those who live in their communities. They tackle all of this while
still distributing medications, juggling doctors’ orders, making sure residents are clean and groomed, providing one-onone enrichment activities, and following regulations. “I’m a nurse because I enjoy helping others, and during this unprecedented
time serving them is most important,” says Ronda Eick, RN, senior director of assisted living at Windhaven. “Our team works to keep them all strong, encouraged and healthy.” Those providing leadership throughout the coronavirus crisis take notice. “In difficult times, they run to those in need while others might run away. They choose to come into work to take care of people because they love them,” said Briana Hilmer, RN, system clinical officer. “They set aside their own fears and worries to put on a brave face and a kind smile and go about their important work.” “Our CNAs, nurses and nurse leaders are amazing any day, and in the last six weeks we have seen them step up and shine,” said Wendy Ager, RN, BSN, system integrity and regulatory compliance officer. “What they do most of all is treat residents with love, care, dignity and respect. They work hard to keep each other and residents smiling, and they create joy.” For many of them, it’s a lifelong calling. Beth Hines knew she would work with older adults when she did a high school internship at a nursing home. “I feel my life has a purpose with the privilege of caring for our elderly population, and it expands my empathy,” says Hines, CNA, the household coordinator at Nation Cottage, a small-house nursing home for 16 residents with mid- to latestage dementia. “I miss all the big hugs with my residents and I’m sure they miss them, too. I have been over-compensating with extra singing and dancing to keep them entertained!” Sparking joy, going the extra mile, practicing precautions: As Fred Roger once said, “When I was a boy and would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, ‘Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.’” Those helpers are the employees of Western Home Communities – from nurses to nurse assistants and medication aides to caregivers, receptionists, cooks, servers, drivers, security, leisure services professionals, chaplains and more. Thank you to all the health care heroes at Western Home Communities.
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SALUTE TO HEALTH CARE HEROES
Yore Uniform Shop ready to serve
health care heroes
WATERLOO — Yore Uniform Shop has specialized in serving health care heroes for over 41 years. Located at 912 La Porte Road in Waterloo, the store offers the largest selection of scrubs and health care accessories in the Cedar Valley. Recently, the retail store underwent a major transformation, including new paint, retail fixtures, and a new exciting layout. Kathy Pfiffner, president and CEO, said these renovations were necessary to better serve the health care workers of the Cedar Valley. “When I became the owner of Yore Uniform Shop nearly a year ago, one of my first priorities was to completely revamp our retail store space so that our customers could have a more comfortable and enjoyable shopping experience.” In addition to the renovations at the retail location, Yore Uniform Shop has expanded its services with the launch of an online store. “We know our customers can get busy,” Pfiffner said. “It can be hard to find the time to shop in person. We opened the online store so our customers could shop when it is convenient for them.” Yore Uniform Shop has also increased its presence on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. The store periodically offers exclusive sales through these services that are not advertised anywhere else. “That is why it is so important for customers to like and follow us on social media, so they can get the most updated information about our sales and specials,” Pfiffner said. Yore Uniform Shop is a family-owned and operated store.
100 Great Iowa Nurses PHOTO COURTESY YORE UNIFORM SHOP
“Our goal is to provide the highest quality products and exceptional service to our customers. Yore Uniform Shop is open seven days a week so our customers in the Cedar Valley and surrounding communities can always access the clothing and accessories they need to feel and look great doing a hero’s job.”
GCMH salutes our entire team of caregivers as we congratulate nurse leader Jody Schipper on her recognition as a Great Iowa Nurse!
Kathy Pfiffner, president and CEO of Yore Uniform Shop Maria Pfiffner, Kathy’s sister, has been the store manager for nearly 24 years. Kristina Lambert, Kathy’s daughter, serves as the assistant manager. The store offers group discounts and will work one-on-one with medical, dental, and other health care offices and departments to create a unique and personalized look for their team members. “Our goal is to provide the highest quality products and exceptional service to our customers. Yore Uniform Shop is
open seven days a week so our customers in the Cedar Valley and surrounding communities can always access the clothing and accessories they need to feel and look great doing a hero’s job,” Pfiffner said. Yore Uniform Shop wants to thank all the health care heroes who are working tirelessly to keep our community safe and healthy. We appreciate all that you do and are ready to serve you! You can find Yore Uniform Shop online at yoreuniform.com.
Jody Schipper, MSN RN Director of Clinical Services 2020 Great Iowa Nurse
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SALUTE TO HEALTH CARE HEROES
PHOTO COURTESY CARE INITIATIVES
You have a choice in
N
HOSPICE CARE
ot all hospices are the same and you should know you have a choice in the hospice service you’d like to use. When confronted with the question of discussing hospice care for a loved one, we recommend you speak to more than one hospice provider, ask questions of each provider, and determine which service is the best fit for your needs. You are well within your rights to make such a request. Just ask by name the hospice agencies you’d like to meet. Hospice care isn’t something most people think about until the very moment they need it. Or people put it off for days and weeks after it could have been even more helpful for a quality end-of-life experience. As hospice providers, we get it. No one likes to think about death or dying
or letting go. It’s a tough and often times uncomfortable topic. But fortunately, there’s a not-for-profit hospice organization that’s been serving Black Hawk county and the surrounding area for 11 years – Care Initiatives Hospice – that can help you through this vulnerable time. There’s a lot to sort through emotionally when entering this time in one’s life. We help educate and answer questions when you’re researching which hospice service to use. As a not-for-profit organization our main interest is making sure you are well informed. If you or your family member is eligible for hospice care, we want the decision you make to be what’s best for the care you or your loved one need, not what’s best for us. Once the family or patient reaches a decision to involve hospice care, the care
itself and the engagement of our expert physician, nurses, aides, social workers, and spiritual care providers make the journey a meaningful one for all involved. Providers like Care Initiatives Hospice offer individualized care plans to fit a patient’s needs, desires and requests. Again, it’s what’s best for the patient, not us. The key pillars to compassionate care is a “patients first” mentality, a willingness to take the time to meet with families and patients, days, evenings, or weekends to answer questions prior to coming on service as well as while providing hospice services. Our phone is answered 24/7 and our goal is to respond back within 15 minutes. When face-to-face visits are needed for admitting to hospice care or for a nurse or aide to provide additional hospice care, our intent is to be physically
present within an hour or less. Our aim is to help you better understand hospice care. Here are some basic facts about specialized end-of-life care. Hospice is not a place. Hospice is a specialized practice of care for someone who is near death. Hospice care can be provided anywhere – in a hospital, assisted living, nursing home, but many times treatment is given in the person’s private home. Patients tend to prefer to be at home with loved ones and pets while receiving care so the hospice team comes to you. The team includes nurses, counselors, therapists, social workers, volunteers, hospice aides and clergy if desired and they are available around the clock. Please see HOSPICE, Page 18
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SALUTE TO HEALTH CARE HEROES
United to
serve Fulfilling our mission during COVID-19
WATERLOO — Navigating the ever-changing COVID-19 situation has been a trying time for all of us – locally, nationally, and globally. As the weeks go on, it becomes more and more evident that uniting to serve those around us is a large component of getting through this moment in time without losing hope. Everyone’s individual actions, big and small, truly make a difference. We are privileged to be surrounded by amazing staff and providers at Peoples Community Health Clinic who have joined together to care for our patients amid supply shortages, constantly changing guidelines, new processes, and feelings of uncertainty. They have loved ones at home. They have worries about what is to come. They are experiencing major lifestyle shifts. But they still show up to support each other and to support our patients. Delivering our mission to provide quality health care to all is where our team’s heart lies. They are truly our heroes, now and always. When they chose to work in health care as a career, part of that is knowing that you run towards crisis, not away from it. They have done just that. Working longer hours. Dealing with more complex conditions. Flexing their routines to help where needed. We also really admire the way our staff has adjusted their tasks to accommodate the clinic’s needs. Many staff are repurposed to assist with the increased need for making patient phone calls, screening everyone entering the clinic, and helping to make sure departments have supplies they need. These examples are just a few of the ways staff are stepping
up to the plate to be of service to those around them. When people started to prepare their homes for the arrival of COVID-19 in our area, several basic necessities were hard to come by – and still are. Knowing this, our leadership team jumped into action. They initiated a process that assessed staff needs (including child care, supplies, and services) and staff offerings that could help fulfill these identified needs. The outpouring of supplies and offerings of support services began immediately. Within a few days, the clinic was fully stocked with supplies requested by staff members and child care services were coordinated. At this time, if any staff member has a need, they can take what they require from the collected stock – no questions asked. Supporting “our family” at and outside of work is important to us and we are thrilled to see how well our team is taking care of each other in so many different ways. Through this pandemic, we have felt honored to be at the table alongside long-time community partners such as Black Hawk County Emergency Management, the Black Hawk County Health Department, UnityPoint Health-Allen Hospital, MercyOne Northeast Iowa, first responders, city leaders, and state legislators, among many others. The community-wide collaboration made possible through frequent group meetings and press briefings has allowed us to tackle this situation in a unified way, making a more intentional impact. We are proud of the work tak-
PHOTO COURTESY PEOPLES CLINIC
ing place in the community. In our position, we see “Cedar Valley Strong” in action every day. As you can imagine, this time has been difficult for our staff from time to time. Raising staff morale is one of our main priorities outside of keeping them, and our patients, safe, healthy, and financially secure. We can’t do this alone. We have been astonished by the generosity shown to us by local organizations. Through supportive social media posts, gift baskets, lunches, and more – we’ve been lifted up by businesses when we needed it most. We also can’t thank the community enough for their support, primarily in the area of
cloth face mask donations. The sewn masks donated by so many volunteers, from both near and far, have been vital to our operations. The masks are used in a few different ways: as personal protective equipment (PPE) cover to help us make what we have last longer; worn by non-clinical staff members in public clinic areas on a daily basis; given to patients who need a face mask to wear in public. We are still accepting donations of masks. If you are interested in making a donation, contact Augusta Sires at asires@peoples-clinic.com for specific details about the style of masks needed at this time. Many are asking what they can
do to help us at this time, and for that we are so grateful. If you are interested in helping our mission, here are a couple of ideas: Donate money for us to support other projects going on at the clinic outside of COVID-19 work at www.peoples-clinic.com/ support-us; consider making a donation of goods such as food or supplies for staff/patients. If interested in this option, contact Augusta Sires at asires@ peoples-clinic.com. To find out how our clinic is responding to COVID-19 and updates about our operations, including instructions for patients, go to www.peoples-clinic.com/ coronavirus-updates.
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SALUTE TO HEALTH CARE HEROES
Patient touts excellent care at Waverly Health Center WAVERLY — When traveling for work, Amy Hunzelman of Waverly never thought her final stop would be at the hospital. Amy first had abdominal pain and nausea while out of town for work. After landing at the Waterloo airport, she went straight to Waverly Health Center’s emergency department where a team started lab tests and ordered a CT scan. “The ED staff did a phenomenal job at keeping me as comfortable as could be, updating me on my condition and helping me prepare for surgery,” Amy said. Her husband arrived shortly after she was in the ED. He was quickly brought up to speed on her issue so Amy could go to surgery. Amy’s appendix had perforated and needed to be removed. Dr. Troy Ivey, general surgeon, performed the surgery. “The on-call surgery team was incredibly nice and accommodating to my pain and needs,” Amy said. “Having had surgery at the health center before, I knew the level of care I would receive and only wanted to be treated there.” Amy wasn’t prepared for a week-long hospital stay, but received the best care from nurses, doctors and staff. “I took advantage of the massage and music therapy services. I greatly appreciated both of these and was pleasantly surprised with the comfort the music therapist provided. She sang a few gentle songs with guided meditation which put my mind at ease,” Amy added. Amy’s mother stayed with her with entire time, including nights. “The staff and nurses were also very accommodating to
PHOTO COURTESY OF WAVERLY HEALTH CENTER
Hunzelman family
PHOTO COURTESY WHC
“Upon entering my room after surgery, a drawing on the wall was the first thing I noticed. The child’s drawing of a rainbow brightened my spirits each day and allowed me to focus on healing and recovering.” my mother. They often checked in with her to see if she needed anything to eat, extra blankets or pillows, or even toiletries,” Amy noted. “Upon entering my room af-
ter surgery, a drawing on the wall was the first thing I noticed. The child’s drawing of a rainbow brightened my spirits each day and allowed me to focus on healing and recovering,” she said.
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Heroes on the front line at NewAldaya CEDAR FALLS — The senior living paradigm is constantly in motion. While these changes are being made, one thing remains constant — the quality of life provided by NewAldaya Lifescapes staff to our residents. From our nursing teams to facility services and dietary teams, each and every person plays a part in fulfilling our mission. Having quality nursing staff means giving quality care, and nothing less is expected when the time comes for our loved ones to make the shift into senior living care. At NewAldaya we strive to be the best there is. As changes in the standard for care occur, our dedicated staff work to implement new and effective guidelines that ensure all our residents’ needs are met. Going above and beyond is not always an assumption you can make for all senior living facilities, but our staff’s efforts set us apart from the rest. “We are fortunate to have the nurses we have who are committed to providing the most compassionate care,” said Nicole Huruska, director of nursing at NewAldaya and a member of our team since 2010. “These are the heroes at the front line providing the care needed and playing an incredible role with the outcomes and experiences every resident has, whether they are here for skilled level of care or long term care. Each and every day, I feel truly blessed and fortunate to have the nurses and caregivers we do here at NewAldaya. Their compassion and commitment to our mission is shown in all they do. We could
Healthcare Heroes We need you now, more than ever!
Thank you for all you do! 7511 University Ave., Cedar Falls • 319-268-0401 Apply Online! www.NewAldaya.org/Careers
PHOTO COURTESY NEWALDAYA
Conagra supports our Healthcare workers!
“I am so proud of all of you and thank you from the bottom of my heart for everything you do and your tireless efforts to provide such extraordinary care to our residents.” Nicole Huruska, director of nursing not deliver on that commitment without them.” Caring for the community’s seniors is privilege that should not be taken lightly. Being a health care worker means making a difference in residents’ lives everyday. It is a calling not meant for all. Working with residents and their family members to overcome the
challenging time we are facing is an honor and a source of pride that pushes our employees to be better and live better. “I am so proud of all of you and thank you from the bottom of my heart for everything you do and your tireless efforts to provide such extraordinary care to our residents,” Huruska said.
2701 Midport Blvd., Waterloo IA 50703 319-287-3318 conagrabrands.com
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SALUTE TO HEALTH CARE HEROES
Hospital respiratory therapist PLAYS KEY ROLE IN PANDEMIC Hospital respiratory therapist plays key role in pandemic SARA PALCZEWSKI
Associated Press
OPELIKA, Ala. — Hidden among the front lines of defense against the coronavirus is a medical professional most people might not know exists — a respiratory therapist. East Alabama Medical Center’s Joshua Jones is one of those hidden heroes on the front lines, helping patients who are in respiratory distress. Since coronavirus took its hold over Lee County, Jones’ daily life has changed drastically. “I have worked numerous shifts in a row,” he said. “Instead of going home and typically having a drink, flipping on the Netflix, I’m going home and I’m researching everything that I can think of to try to help us through this.” The father of two also has sent his 16-year-old and 7-year-old to live with his mother-in-law while he and his wife work opposite shifts at the hospital. This way his children can help their grandmother around the house and prevent the spread of the virus to her. “It’s very different for me to go home each night and not have my children there,” Jones said. “But it is for the better. My children both understand what Daddy is doing, and they understand why I’m here every day and why I’ve not been home.”
What is a respiratory therapist? Respiratory therapists are considered the experts when it comes to ventilators, breathing devices and more, Jones said. “We are the ones for patients
SARA PALCZEWSKI/OPELIKA-AUBURN NEWS VIA AP
East Alabama Medical Center respiratory therapist Joshua Jones poses for a photo in Opelika, Ala. He is one of the many people on the frontlines defending against the coronavirus. As a respiratory therapist, he specializes in inhaled treatments and ventilators.
“Instead of going home and typically having a drink, flipping on the Netflix, I’m going home and I’m researching everything that I can think of to try to help us through this.”
Serving Waterloo/CF & Surrounding Area since 2009 www.careinitiativeshospice.org
Yore uniform sHop salutes all HealtH Care Workers
Joshua Jones, East Alabama Medical Center respiratory therapist that come in and they’re having any kind of breathing difficulty and they need something beyond just oxygen therapy, which we run numerous oxygen therapy devices,” he said. “We’re kind of the experts on which device works better for which disease process and when we need to step it up to the next level of oxygen therapy.” On a daily basis, Jones and other respiratory therapists are the ones who administer any kind of inhaled medications that a patient may need for asthma, COPD, chronic bronchitis, pneumonia and numerous other lung disorders, he said.
But the one thing that sets respiratory therapists apart is their knowledge of ventilators. “Ventilators are what makes a respiratory therapist a respiratory therapist,” Jones said. “That’s what sets us apart from all other disciplines of medicine is our knowledge of ventilators. Nobody else in medicine gets trained on ventilators as deeply and thoroughly as we do.”
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The need
The coronavirus is a respiratory illness causing patients to require oxygen treatment or Please see THERAPIST, Page 19
912 La Porte Rd Waterloo 319.235.6601 yoreuniform.com
SALUTE TO HEALTH CARE HEROES
Sparking Playtime matters more than ever right now
STANDING TOGETHER
I
STAFF WRITER
n these unprecedented and uncertain times, play is critical to physical and emotional well-being, helping both kids and adults decompress and stay positive while providing countless learning opportunities. “With families encouraged to practice social distancing and many schools closed, it’s more important than ever to keep playing together as a family,” says Anna Yudina, senior director of marketing initiatives, The Toy Association. “Play not only sparks joy, but has numerous benefits for kids and parents alike.” To help families make the most of their time together, The Genius of Play, a national movement to educate parents and caregivers about play’s vital role in child development, has launched “Play Today,” a new online destination for families to stay well and play on. As part of the initiative, they are sharing play ideas and inspiration to keep kids busy and engaged.
Reasons to Play Today
Play offers six key developmental benefits, helping kids hone their physical, emotional, cognitive, creative, social and communication skills. Research points to a direct correlation between play and stress reduction. In stressful times, play can bring comfort and relieve anxiety for everyone. Play stimulates little minds and keeps children engaged and learning even as schools remain
joy
Sunday, May 3, 2020 | 15
Peoples Proud
Honoring Those closed. Play provides an outlet for creativity and imagination, lifting spirits and delivering muchneeded positive emotions. Play brings families together and is an opportunity to make lasting memories that will live long after the current crisis is over.
How to Play
Let the kids lead the way! Encourage children to share how they want to play and to use their imaginations, plus things they have around the house, to put their ideas into action. Use toys to dial up fun and enhance learning. From stuffed animals, action figures and dolls to construction sets and science kits, there are thousands of toys that can ignite kids’ curiosity and spark hours of play and hands-on exploration. The American Academy of Pediatrics has acknowledged the importance of high-quality toys in early childhood to facilitate cognitive development, language interactions, symbolic and pretend play, problem-solving, social interactions and physical activity. For the most beneficial play and to create the most fun, it’s important for parents to se-
lect toys that match their children’s interests, abilities and developmental skills. For a research-based toy and play guide, parents and caregivers can visit TheGeniusofPlay.org. Use technology to connect with others. Throw a virtual dance party or take the kids on a field trip to their favorite zoo or museum. Get active. From “Simon Says” to action hero role play to musical chairs, there are endless ways to be active. Modeling fun physical activities can help instill the importance of movement.
Get Inspired
Free online resources are available to provide families with play inspiration. The Genius of Play’s #PlayToday hub offers indoor and virtual play ideas, expert advice, and lots of games for families of all sizes to help them make the most of their time together. To access this information, as well as at-home learning resources for social distancing and expert tips from leaders in education and child development, visit TheGeniusofPlay.org. “With families suddenly spending more time at home, there has never been a better time to play than today,” says Yudina.
COMMITTED TO
Your
CARE
We are thankful to all of the medical and dental staff at our clinic, as well as in the Cedar Valley, for their commitment to care.
Your
We also thank the community members and partners that have supported our “health care heroes” during this time! Your kindness is deeply appreciated.
Clarksville | Waterloo (319) 874-3000 www.peoples-clinic.com
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SALUTE TO HEALTH CARE HEROES
CEDAR VALLEY HOSPICE MAKES EACH MOMENT
matter
WATERLOO — While a lot has changed in our world and on the front lines of healthcare, our focus at Cedar Valley Hospice remains the same – to continue helping patients and families make each moment matter. Recently, our work has looked a little different in the midst of the pandemic, but it hasn’t changed our mission. If anything, it has shown how strong our staff, volunteers and donors are. Volunteers, organizations and businesses have put their skills to work to help us protect our valued staff, patients and families. So far, over 1,000 handmade masks were sewn and delivered, along with other personal protective equipment. Although the majority of Cedar Valley Hospice administrative staff are working from home, office staff continue to hold down the fort answering phone calls and connecting patients and families to staff. Meanwhile, our clinicians continue to care for patients while taking extra precautions on home and facility visits and implementing telehealth visits as needed. We’ve even created a COVID-19 clinical care team that only care for patients who have tested positive for COVID-19 or have a caregiver who has tested positive. This team is ready to meet the unique challenges of COVID-19 and end-of-life care. Those employees working from home continue to advance our cause by connecting via
“I hope people realize that there is still a lot of ways we can connect with people and help brighten their day. We all could use a little of that right now.”
PHOTO COURTESY CEDAR VALLEY HOSPICE
Jeannie Woodward, Volunteer Cedar Valley Hospice Volunteer Jeannie Woodward visits patient Elaine outside her Friendship Village window. Her friend, Pat Cole, holds the whiteboard to help Jeannie communicate her sentiment since she Zoom meetings. New ideas are was unable to visit her in person due to COVID-19 restrictions. Once a week, Jeannie visits and the two of developed daily to stay on the them share a phone call. “There are still a lot of ways we can connect with people and help brighten their cutting edge of the pandemic, day,” added Jeannie. all while remembering to spread good cheer through cards, let- Elaine are able to talk and keep creating special moments. ters, Facebook and LinkedIn. Although our volunteers are “She’s like a second Mom to unable to continue their regular me,” said Jeannie, who lost her duties, many have found ways mom in 2016. “We connected to raise the spirits of hospice right away. I hope people realpatients. Volunteer Jeannie ize that there is still a lot of ways Woodward did just that. It was we can connect with people and late March and Jeannie had been help brighten their day. We all visiting patient Elaine weekly could use a little of that right since last November. She wasn’t now.” Waterloo Visiting Nursing Association going to let COVID-19 break her The Hospice Home has restreak or keep her from com- mained open with visitor reHOME HEALTH municating with whom she strictions and monitoring in calls “one special lady and dear place. Normally, it takes 93 volunteers every month to friend.” Home Health Nurses and Staff are HEROES to Due to visitor restrictions, cover the welcome desk. Curour community’s most vulnerable and those Jeannie wasn’t able to physically rently, volunteers are unable to be in the same room or share a perform this duty, so other staff who are sheltering in place. conversation over a Pepsi. In- members have stepped up to stead, she surprised Elaine with monitor it and ensure the safety Just as our predecessors 80+ years ago were a visit outside her room win- of our patients and staff. working the front lines in homes to minimize the dow. Staff at Friendship Village Meanwhile, staff inside the obliged by opening the blinds, Hospice Home continue to proTuberculosis epidemic, we continue that legacy allowing them to re-create vide expert care and compassion today. Community Health is our priority, then their visits as often as Jeannie to its patients and their families. would like. With a whiteboard and NOW. You are HEROES every day! and phone in hand, Jeannie and Please see CV HOSPICE, Page 18
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SALUTE TO HEALTH CARE HEROES
MercyOne From 5
When MercyOne came together as a state-wide organization a little more than a year ago, it was symbolic of the Power of One. The challenges of COVID-19 have reinforced the need for that connection and the strength that comes with coming together as ONE. Teams are able to connect daily to share insights and resources and work together to advance MercyOne’s united mission. Collaboration is ongoing at the state-wide level: from doctor to doctor, colleague to colleague, MercyOne location to
“We are overwhelmed by the support we have received from the community, including donations of PPE, hand-sewn masks, and food and beverages for our colleagues.” Jack Dusenbery, president and CEO of MercyOne Northeast Iowa MercyOne location, between MercyOne and our communities as well as with other organizations and our elected officials. This teamwork is crucial to the
success of the organization, especially during challenging times. “In my health care career, I have never seen anything like this before,” said Dusenbery. “These are unprecedented times and we are working daily to adapt and make sure we are doing everything we can to work through this.” In general, many more challenges lie ahead for health care organizations around the country, and this will forever change the way business is conducted. This scenario continues to reveal opportunities for change, and innovation not yet realized in care delivery. Consumers, too, have likely realized changes
they will incorporate into their everyday lives and take on a more cautious approach as the learning of this pandemic has forever changed society. While it’s been a challenging time, Dusenbery reflects on the blessings revealed. “When something like this happens, it’s so important for us to rally together, not only as an organization, but also as a community,”
In uncertain times, we all have a unique opportunity to be the best version of ourselves. At HealthPartners UnityPoint Health, we’re seeing exceptional bravery and compassion – every minute, every hour, every day – from our health care professionals and the communities they serve. Know that we’re humbled, grateful and hopeful for the future – and that we’re here for you.
Thank you.
PHOTO COURTESY OF CARE INITIATIVES
Long-term From 6
to work every day. Why do they do it? Because for our employees it’s personal. It’s about knowing the job they do is so meaningful and necessary for the residents and resident families they serve.
This COVID-19 event has caused our employees to come together and galvanize for the good of residents and in support of each other. All of our employees, from our maintenance staff to laundry and housekeeping, dietary aides and cooks, social workers and social services teams, business office
staff, nurses, aides, therapists and supervisors, play a role as a team to keep our residents safe, engaged, and healthy. For this, we honor our superheroes at La Porte City Specialty Care, NorthCrest Specialty Care and Ravenwood Specialty care, both in Waterloo; and Pinnacle Specialty Care in Cedar Rapids.
he said. “We are overwhelmed by the support we have received from the community, including donations of PPE, hand-sewn masks, and food and beverages for our colleagues.” MercyOne will move forward in new ways and will continue our commitment to care for the communities we serve, and help our patients live their best lives.
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Hospice From 10
Entering hospice does not replace medical care. Hospice care is an additional form of medical treatment. Hospice and palliative (pain relief) care is a board-certified medical specialty. The main difference between standard medical care and hospice is instead of treating to cure, hospice treats to care. In hospice, medication or therapies are only prescribed to manage pain or relieve symptoms. The treatment plan is
Partnership From 7
The final option for students to enjoy this partnership is to pursue the traditional transfer track. With this option, students take prerequisite coursework through UNI before applying to transfer to complete a degree at Allen. This route results in only one degree, but allows students to take advantage of coursework, resources and the community UNI offers prior to completing
SALUTE TO HEALTH CARE HEROES
regularly reviewed and revised as needed. Hospice is open to people of any age or condition. Patients with any kind of terminal illness can receive hospice care, as can children. The main criterion for hospice is that the patient’s doctor must determine that life expectancy is six months or less. Most hospice costs are usually covered by Medicare, Medicaid, HMOs or private insurers. Several studies have shown that hospice care can greatly reduce the cost of treating terminal illness. Additionally, hospice usually costs less than care in
hospitals, assisted living or nursing homes. The hospice team can arrange for a hospital bed, oxygen tank, remote monitoring tools or other needed equipment to be delivered to the home. At-home caregivers are taught how to administer medications and use equipment. If there is no capable live-in caregiver at home, the hospice team can help find a private nurse. Medicare, Medicaid (in some states) and the Department of Veterans Affairs may cover all hospice costs for those eligible. If you have a private insurer or HMO, you’ll have to ask about
degree requirements at Allen. These partnership programs require no previous experience or schooling related to nursing or healthcare. All programs are open to both new and transfer students. It is also possible for students to transfer into the programs from other majors at UNI. Students are able to declare these majors at UNI, but must meet specific qualifications to be accepted into the programs at Allen. The partnership has been in existence for several years now and has proven popular. Cur-
rently, there are more than 150 UNI students enrolled in these programs, making them some of the fastest growing programs at UNI. “People know health care is going to be around,” Emery said. People entering the programs are confident they will have career options upon graduation and well into the future. For information about these or any other programs at UNI, please contact the UNI Office of Admissions at (319) 273-2281, or admissions@uni.edu.
CV Hospice
lieve suffering and to make the end of life more meaningful. Hospice staff assists the patient in completing any unfinished business – legal, emotional or spiritual – that can help in coming to terms with death. If you have questions about hospice care for your loved one, please feel free to call Care Initiatives Hospice at (319) 2326148. We’re here to help.
THANK YOU TO OUR HEROES IN HEALTHCARE. Your amazing dedication is an inspiration to everyone!
eyes. “When I saw him, it relaxed my stress and anxiety. I slept so peacefully that night, and when I woke up, I had the biggest smile on my face. I can still smell the daffodils!”
From 16
For example, one patient was particularly saddened by the fact that she was unable to see her husband of over 40 years. It had been three weeks with special restrictions, and both were becoming more anxious by the day. The husband made a call, hoping that he may be able to connect with his wife outside somehow. Hospice Home staff went out of their way to make it special for the two of them. When the husband showed up with lunch from Sub City, the couple’s favorite, his wife couldn’t believe it. Staff had gone out of their way to create an outdoor oasis on the patio with a decorated table, furnished with a table skirt, nice
specific hospice and home care benefits. Hospice care does not “hurry death.” When a terminal illness is no longer responding to medical treatment, continuing aggressive care can deplete someone even more. Hospice empowers people to choose how to spend their final days and die with dignity and peace of mind. The purpose of hospice is to re-
We’re In This Together
BRANDON POLLOCK, COURIER STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Cedar Valley Hospice Home in Waterloo. dishes and fresh cut flowers. “It meant so much to me,” said the wife with tears in her
If you haven’t had a chance, check out our Facebook frame that urges people to “Stay Home” and that “We’re In This Together.” Anyone can make it a part of their profile picture. At Cedar Valley Hospice, we are glad to spread hope and we encourage you to do the same. Let us know if you have an uplifting story to share. Remember, we are here for you, your family and our healthcare partners. Please, take care of yourselves, social distance and check in on your loved ones. Together, we will get through this!
JOIN OUR TEAM of healthcare heroes. VISIT BCHEALTH.ORG/CAREERS TODAY! BCHC is an Equal Opportunity Employer
1600 First St. East Independence, IA 50644 (319) 332-0999
BCHealth.org
Sunday, May 3, 2020 | 19
SALUTE TO HEALTH CARE HEROES
Therapist From 14
ventilation in some cases. This puts respiratory therapists right in the middle of the battle against the virus. “We are in the middle of the absolute worst of this on the front lines,” Jones said. “We’re using so many of our machines and so much of the individual knowledge that we have that is specialized in respiratory therapy that we have become a vital part of this battle.” Jones hasn’t necessarily seen an increase of patients yet at EAMC, but the amount of work he must do on each patient has increased due to the coronavirus. “The intensity of the work on each individual patient has gone up drastically,” he said. But Jones knows that the number of patients might worsen in the future. So he and the rest of the staff have come together to be prepared to help the rest of
the EAMC staff in any way that they can. “We all realized just how big of an impact this is having on the community and the hospital,” he said. “So all of us have banded together to try to cover as many shifts as we can and cover any possible situation that comes up in this building.
The future
The is worried about what could happen at the hospital. “In my own life not too worried about it because I know everybody’s safe there,” he explained. “But I am worried about what is going to happen here (within the community).” Jones doesn’t know what the future holds for EAMC when it comes to COVID-19, but he’s making sure that he’s prepared for whatever is thrown his way. “Getting better for it every day,” Jones said. “We’re coming up with new ideas and new strategies for things in the hospital.”
Good works From 4
Italy who has gone from racing against competitors to racing medicine to those in need, to Yale student Liam Elkind’s delivery service. A month after reporting on Elkind’s “Invisible Hands” effort which he started with a friend, he reports that it’s ballooned. “We’re making over 1,000 deliveries a week now, and over 10,000 volunteers have joined our group. I feel like I haven’t slept in decades, but, honestly, I’ve never felt more energized,” he said. Heroes have emerged in youth, from Nova Knight, a 5-year-old firecracker in Alaska imploring her cohorts to wash their hands and postpone playdates, to 16-year-old TJ Kim, who can’t drive, but can fly. He uses those skills to deliver much-needed medical supplies
AP PHOTO/LEO CORREA
People watch firefighter Elielson Silva play his trumpet from the top of a ladder for residents cooped up at home, during a lockdown to help contain the spread of the new coronavirus in Rio de Janeiro on April 5. across rural Virginia. The stories have circled the world, from Colombia and Nepal, to Italy, Germany, France, Spain, Brazil, Israel, Indonesia and South Korea where Kim Byung-rok, a shoe cobbler, donated land to help raise money
for the fight against the virus. In the month of stories about the goodness of others, it’s no surprise when we doubled back to the previous subjects of the coverage, AP journalists found the obvious: the givers’ giving has expanded.
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SALUTE TO HEALTH CARE HEROES
still