Ready to Save a Life? - Marion General Hospital

ContentsFeaturesSpecialYouReady50Areto Savea Life? Get answersto common questionsabout blooddonation in ourcommunity.46springPower30Will10141822My Heart Attack Get a first-personaccount of the consequences ofignoring your body’s warning signs.Anesthesiology, Then and NowSee how painless surgery came to be—plus meet the experts who make itpossible every day at MGH.Excuses, Excuses Experts bust themost commonly used cop-outs fornot eating right.Easing the Pressure Think you workhard? Your heart pumps 24 hours a day.Keep hypertension under control.Prostate Predicament Read howone man got to the cause of hisurinary symptoms—and found relief.On Mended Knees They’re two ofour most used—and abused—joints.Find out how surgical advances mighthelp you.With rolesthat includeMuhammad Ali and asuperhero, iconic actorWill Smith has to stay inshape. Find out how youcan get fit even withoutthe celebrity treatment.273640444952Imaging IQ Going in for a routinescreening or diagnostic test? Here’swhat you need to know.Caregiving: A Survival GuideCaring for a loved one is hard workand fraught with unique challenges.Form Factors Just like the womenit affects, breast cancer comes in allshapes and sizes. Learn about fourtypes you need to be aware of.Wake-Up Call A diagnosis of prediabetesdoesn’t have to be all bad. It’s achance to turn your health around.What Our Patients Are Telling UsA Marion resident gives thanks to thephysicians and staff who cared for himat MGH.Keeping You Connected Discoverhow MGH’s newly improved websitecan serve your healthcare needs.Departments2 Opening ThoughtsMGH is taking stepsto ensure you haveproper access tophysicians.3 Life in GeneralThe latest newsfrom MGH.53 EmployeeExcellenceWho’s lighting thehospital’s halls?54 Volunteer ServicesHonoring thosewho give their timeand talents.55 DonationsThe MGHMemorial Gardencommemoratesemployees,physicians andvolunteers.56 CommunityConnectionsEducation programsand support groups.PHOTOGRAPH BY JET SET, ICON INTERNATIONAL vim & vigor · spring 2010 1

Opening ThoughtsRecruitment Isa Top PriorityAccess to primary care physicians iscritical for our Healthcare CommunityWe know that it has been very difficult in the pastfor people to find a primary care physician to be theirfamily physician. This causes people to look for afamily physician in another community, which is inconvenient and costlydue to travel time and cost of gas. The shortage also causes overcrowdingin the emergency department. Our emergency department is currently seeingover 40,000 patients annually, which makes it one of the busiest in thestate of Indiana.To address the shortage of primary care physicians in our HealthcareCommunity, we established a new physician recruitment and retentioncommittee, which is a committee of the board of directors. Membership onthis committee consists of board members, physicians and me. In addition toprimary care, this committee also addresses other medical specialty needs.This committee has been very active since being formed last spring. Ithas reviewed a physician needs assessment that was completed in early2009 to help us focus on the areas of need. The committee has identifiednumerous tactics to recruit and it developed plans for interviewing andmaking physician candidates feel welcome in our Healthcare Community.As of October 2009, we have been successful in recruiting several newphysicians for our community, including a new family practice physicianwho will be available July 1, 2010. Also, we are now publishing at leastmonthly a list of physicians and nurse practitioners who are accepting newpatients, possibly with limited availability in some practices. This has alreadyprovided some expanded access to people looking for a family physician.Physician recruitment is extremely critical for our HealthcareCommunity and I assure you that it is our top priority.Marion General HospitalPresident/CEOPaul L. Usher, FACHE, CPA, FHFMAHospital Board of DirectorsChairman, Board of DirectorsWilliam H. ReaPresident, Medical StaffShawn T. Swan, M.D.Administrative Director/Public Relations and MarketingAnn VermilionEditorRandy DeffenbaughContributing PhotographersEric MarshallCarl and Allison SaathoffPRODUCTIONEditorialV.P./Creative Director: Beth TomkiwEditor-in-Chief: Shelley FlanneryEditors: Sam Mittelsteadt, Matt Morgan, Amanda Myers,Kari Redfield, Jill Schildhouse, Tom Weede, Julie WlodychakCopy Editor: Cindy HutchinsonDesignCreative Director: Lisa AltomareArt Directors: Laura Butler, Erica Brooks, Maggie Conners,Monya Mollohan, Kay Morrow, Adele Mulford, Tami Rodgers,Keith WhitneyProductionSenior Production Manager: Laura MarloweAncillary Production Manager: Angela LiedtkeImaging Specialist: Dane NordinePrep Specialists: Julie Fong, Sonia WashingtonCirculationV.P./Business Intelligence Group: Patrick KehoePostal Affairs & Logistics Director: Joseph Abeytaclient servicesV.P./Sales and Product Development: Chad Rose,888-626-8779V.P./Strategic Marketing: Heather BurgettStrategic Marketing Team: Robyn LaMont, Barbara Mohr,Andrea Parsons, Paul Peterson, Todd SperanzoAdvertising SalesAdvertising Sales Repre sentativesNew York: Phil Titolo, Publisher, 212-626-6835Phoenix: Soliteir Jaeger, Associate Publisher, 888-626-8779Mail Order: Bernbach Advertising Reps, 914-769-0051ADMINISTRATIONVim & Vigor Founder: J. Barry JohnsonChairman: Preston V. McMurry Jr.President/Chief Executive Officer: Christopher McMurryChief Operating Officer/Financial Officer: Audra L. TaylorPresident/Content Marketing: Fred PetrovskyPaul L. Usher, FACHE, CPA, FHFMAPresident/CEOMarion General Hospital441 N. Wabash Ave., Marion, IN 46952-2690If you prefer not to receive our magazine or other health andwellness information from Marion General Hospital, please call us at765-662-4849 or send your request to be removed from our mailinglist to randy.deffenbaugh@mgh.net.Vim &Vigor, TM Spring 2010, Volume 26, Number 1, Indiana Region 1 ispublished quarterly by McMurry, McMurry Campus Center, 1010 E. MissouriAve., Phoenix, Arizona 85014, 602-395-5850. Vim & Vigor TM is published forthe purpose of disseminating health-related information for the well-beingof the general public and its subscribers. The information contained inVim & Vigor TM is not intended for the purpose of diagnosing or prescribing.Please consult your physician before undertaking any form of medical treatmentand/or adopting any exercise program or dietary guidelines. Vim &Vigor TM does not accept advertising promoting the consumption of alcoholor tobacco. Copyright © 2010 by McMurry. All rights reserved. Subscriptionsin U.S.: $4 for one year (4 issues). Single copies: $2.95. For subscriptionsand address changes, write: Circulation Manager, Vim & Vigor, TM McMurryCampus Center, 1010 E. Missouri Ave., Phoenix, Arizona 85014.2vim & vigor • spring 2010

Life in GeneralEdward L. Keppler, M.D.,Named Chief Medical OfficerEdward L. Keppler, M.D., was chosen for the positionof chief medical officer at Marion General Hospital.“This is a key position for the hospital, andDr. Keppler’s experience, perspective and leadershipwill be an asset for our Healthcare Community,”says Paul L. Usher, president and CEO.Dr. Keppler has been on MGH’s active medicalstaff since 1980 and has held several leadershipEdward L. Keppler, M.D.roles during that time. He completed his premed atDePauw University and his medical education at Indiana University Schoolof Medicine.MGH Honored forMarketing ExcellenceMarion General Hospital and ad agency partner DesignsGroup LLC of Marion were honored for advertisingexcellence in the 2009 Aster Awards. The Bronze recognitionfor their MGH Top 10% Ortho ad campaign ranksboth organizations in the top 16 percent nationally forhealthcare advertising expertise.“It’s always nice for our team to be recognized by ourindustry and peers,” says Ann Vermilion, administrativedirector of public relations and marketing. “It validates ourefforts and provides proof we produce campaigns of national quality.”Critical Care NurseEarns CertificationMegan L. Kern, R.N., BSN, critical care, has earned CCRNcertification from the AACN Certification Corp., thecertification organization for the American Associationof Critical-Care Nurses. CCRN certification is one ofthe most advanced professional credentials that can be Megan L. Kern, R.N.,BSNachieved by a nurse in the field of critical care.Kern has worked at MGH for 11 years. She and her husband, Eric, have twochildren, Taylor and Carson. They reside in Gas City, Ind.Coder BecomesSpecialistMelody Ybarra, coder II, quality improvement, is nowa certified coding specialist through the AmericanHealth InformationManagement Association(AHIMA). Earning anAHIMA credential putsYbarra in a special league,positioning her as a leaderand role model within thehealth information managementcommunity.Melody YbarraYbarra and her husband, Chris, have one daughter,Cheyanne. The family resides in Converse. Ybarragraduated from Indiana Business College with anassociate’s degree in medical records technology.Nurse ReceivesMedical-SurgicalCertificationRebecca Nall, R.N., BSN,medical/surgical, hasreceived CMSRN certificationfrom the Academy ofMedical-Surgical Nurses.CMSRN certification verifiesNall’s commitmentto providing patients withRebecca Nall, R.N., BSNthe highest standard ofmedical-surgical care available anywhere.Nall, an Indiana Wesleyan University graduate,resides in Sweetser with her husband, Robb,and son, Ethan. She is also a member of the MGHdiabetes resource team and wound skin team.Nall has worked at MGH for five years.vim & vigor • spring 2010 3

In my early 30s I felt invincible.I smoked heavily and didn’thave a primary care physician.I didn’t take my healthseriously. Even though blood workshowed I had high cholesterol, itwas easy to ignore.All that changed in an instant.I remember it well. It wasJanuary 1997, and I was only36 years old. My wife, Robin, andI had just returned home from afamily get-together where one ofmy favorite meals, ham and beanswith onions, was served.At home, I felt slightly nauseated,but this time was different.There was something that didn’tfeel right in the middle of my backMyHeartAttackIgnoring my body’swarning signsnearly cost me mylife. Don’t make thesame mistakeBy Randy Deffenbaugh4vim & vigor • spring 2010

and chest. Not the typical “elephantsitting on your chest,” but a dull,throbbing pain.Even after vomiting, I thoughtthat I had overeaten, as usual, andthe onions were causing indigestion.Yes, that had to be what waswrong. Once again, I took theeasy way out, choosing to ignorethe telltale signs of a very serioushealth problem.Troubles ContinueThe next morning, when I awoke,the nausea was better, but the painin my back and chest was persistent.I continued to ignore the painthroughout the early morning.Then I called a friend who previouslyexperienced a heart attack toget his opinion. He suggested I goto the hospital to be checked justin case.I vividly remember lying in abed in Marion General Hospital’semergency room and watchingthe physician enter the room withtest results.“Mr. Deffenbaugh,” he said,“you’ve had a heart attack.” Therest is a blur.I remember a lot of nursescoming in almost immediatelyto quickly and carefully hookme up to every piece of monitoringequipment you can imagine.Because I worked security at MGH,I knew most of the nurses, and Irecognized the worryin their eyes. Then Ibegan to worry. I meanreally worry. God andI had an immediateconversation. I wantedmy house in order justin case.Randy DeffenbaughMost of all, I rememberlying there thinking about mywife and children. My threedaughters were young. Theyoungest, Alissa, was about 2.My middle daughter, Rysha,was about 10, and my oldest,Candice, 13. Would theyremember me if I died? Boy,how I wished I would havespent more quality time with themand Robin.Next, the “if onlys” entered thepicture. If only I hadn’t smoked.If only I had taken my health moreseriously. If only I had chosen tobe routinely seen by a primarycare physician. If only I had donemore, could all of this have beenprevented?Lessons LearnedWe’ve all been guilty of ignoringthat little ache or pain,that strange-looking mole orthat persistent cough until itbecomes a bigger and moreserious issue.However, ignoring warningsigns until they becomeemergencies is not smart. It’scertainly not good for yourhealth, and it’s not the best useof emergency rooms. In fact, it’sa large part of the reason thatthe nation’s emergency roomsare overcrowded and that waittimes are long.Instead, be proactive.Choose aprimary care physicianor providerwhom you visit routinely,usually oncea year, to stay ontop of your healthFind a DoctorNeed a primary care physician?Call the MGH physician referralgoline at 765-662-4781 for assistance, orgo to www.mgh.net and click “Finda Doctor” for a list of providers who arecurrently accepting new patients.issues. Follow his or her recommendationsfor testing, treatmentand follow-up care.Use MGH’s resources. Don’tlet underlying health problemsbecome a much bigger and moreserious issue as I did. Because ifyou overlook your health until itbecomes critical, you may not survivethat decision.MGH ActivelyImproves HealthcareAccessMarion General Hospital knows that access to primarycare physicians or providers in Grant Countyhas been difficult and is working diligently behindthe scenes to help make it easier.A physician recruitment and retention committeehas been formed, and last year it completed anassessment to clarify future needs for primary careand other physician specialties. The committee alsoidentified ways to effectively recruit physicians toGrant County. Those efforts are beginning to payoff, as more physicians are interviewing, touring andexpressing an interest in MGH.Also, MGH has started to publish a list of physiciansand nurse practitioners who are acceptingnew patients monthly in its Healthbeat article in thelocal newspaper. That same resource is available bycalling 765-662-4781 or visiting www.mgh.net.vim & vigor · spring 2010 5

Anesthesiology,Then and NowAccidental discoverymakes modern,painless surgerypossibleBy Randy DeffenbaughSurgery can be uncertain and worrisome.It is often an unwelcome guestthat catches you off guard emotionally,mentally and physically. It reminds youjust how fragile human life is.Will I survive? Will I make it through surgery?❋ Take ComfortYour MGH surgical team, including the surgeon,anesthesiologist, nurses and supportstaff, work in unison to do everything possibleto make sure that you not only survive but alsothrive after surgery.Many people think an anesthesiologist’sduties are twofold: Theycontinued on page 86vim & vigor · spring 2010

❋ Meet MGH’s “Guardians of Life” ❋At Marion General Hospital, highly talented and skilled anesthesiologists are availableto safely guide you through your surgery and recovery.Leslie Chan, M.D.• Experience: 7 years•Pain management fellowship:University of California, San Francisco•Anesthesiology residency: Universityof California, San Francisco•Medical school, residency: NationalUniversity of Singapore•Internship: St. Vincent Medical Center, Worcester, Mass.• Of note: Published author• Office: 330 N. Wabash Ave., Suite 480• Phone: 765-662-3320William J. Granger, M.D.• Experience: 25 years•Medical school: Louisiana StateUniversity School of Medicine,Shreveport, La.•Residency: University of AlabamaMedical Center, Birmingham, Ala.•Pediatric anesthesiology fellowship:Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Birmingham, Ala.• Of note: Multipublished author• Board certified: Anesthesiology• Office: 330 N. Wabash Ave., Suite 480• Phone: 765-662-3320Dhan Raj, M.D.• Experience: 32 years•Medical school: Osmania MedicalCollege, Hyderabad, India•Internship, residency: University ofLouisville, Louisville, Ky.•Office: 330 N. Wabash Ave.,Suite 480• Phone: 765-662-3320Clifford J. Schoer, M.D.• Experience: 17 years•Medical school: St. George’s Schoolof Medicine, Grenada, West Indies•Internal medicine internship:St. Michael’s Medical Center,Newark, N.J.•Anesthesiology residency: Beth IsraelMedical Center, New York•Pediatric anesthesiology: St. Christopher’s Hospital forChildren, Philadelphia• Office: 330 N. Wabash Ave., Suite 480• Phone: 765-662-3320Stanley Stancil, M.D.• Experience: 28 years•Master of Public Health: HarvardUniversity, Cambridge, Mass.•Medical school: University of Texas,San Antonio•Internship: Wilford Hall MedicalCenter, San Antonio•Residency: Baylor College of Medicine, Houston• Office: 330 N. Wabash Ave., Suite 480• Phone: 765-662-3320John M. Todorczuk, D.O.• Experience: 24 years• Board certified: Anesthesiology•Medical school: West Virginia Schoolof Osteopathic Medicine,Lewisburg, W.Va.•Internship: Millcreek CommunityHospital, Erie, Pa.•Residency: Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine• Office: 330 N. Wabash Ave., Suite 480• Phone: 765-662-3320vim & vigor • spring 2010 7

continued from page 6 help you sleep pain-freethrough surgery and awaken you afterwardto make sure you are doing well. What they doin between those two tasks is most important.Anesthesiologists are truly “guardians of life.”Without them and their life-sustaining skillsand anesthesia, today’s surgeries would notbe possible.Today, anesthesiologists practiceone of the most complex disciplinesof all medical specialization.To understand how far the profession hascome, we must first look into the interestinghistory of anesthesia, which was discovered byaccident more than 165 years ago. Before then,even simple surgeries, by today’s standards,could not be performed.❋ Looking BackInitially, traveling shows used the intoxicatingside effects of inhaling nitrous oxide, or “laughinggas,” for financial gain. Audience memberswould come up on stage, inhale the gas andamuse the crowd with their comic behavior andinsensitivity to pain.It wasn’t long before some bright physiciansmade the connection between nitrous oxide’suse for amusement and medicine. With thistransition, the new science of anesthesiologybegan to spread around the world and open thepossibilities of previously unthinkable surgeries.Current healthcare has benefited greatly fromthis discovery.❋ Before, During and AfterAnesthesiologists are perioperative physicians(“peri-” meaning “all-around”). They providemedical care to you before, during and afteryour surgical procedure.Prior to surgery, they complete your medicalevaluation and provide consultation to helpplan the surgery with the entire surgical team.During surgery, they are responsible for administeringanesthesia, sedatives, muscle relaxantsand a host of other drugs to relieve your pain aswell as manage your breathing, heart rhythm,blood pressure, and brain and kidney functions.Like trained conductors of world-renownedorchestras, they must skillfully and personallyblend these very delicate “instruments” of anesthesiato ensure your well-being and safety.Then, like talented magicians—but with muchmore than just sleight of hand—they must reversethe effects of anesthesia and return you to consciousnessafter surgery.❋ A Complex DisciplineAs you can see, modern-day anesthesiology hascome a long way since its humble beginning asentertainment for profit in the 19th century. Today,anesthesiologists practice one of the most complexdisciplines of all medical specialization.8vim & vigor · spring 2010

Grant County News75 centsWhat Our PatientsAre Telling UsMGH offers great careOver 20 years ago, after living in variouscities of all sizes, I was transferredto Marion. After a few months, I knewthat this was home and this was whereI was going to stay. I’ve never regrettedthat decision. Over the years, I’ve heardpeople trash our city for its lack of finedining or fancy stores. Yet these samepeople are nowhere to be found whensomeone tries to make a success in oneof these businesses.The issues I want to address here,however, are those who trash our medicalservices and Marion General Hospital.After firsthand experience, I don’t believeyou can find better care than I’ve had herein Marion. I spent a full week in MGH andwas treated professionally and compassionatelyby everyone with whom I camein contact. Marion General Hospital nursingcare is second to none. The gift shop,food service, maintenance and follow-upstaff all give the impression that they arethere to serve you and only you.My family doctor, James Orrell, madea hospital visit at 11 p.m. on a Fridaynight so I wouldn’t hear my prognosisfrom someone else. My surgeon, MichaelGunter, spent unlimited time with meexplaining the procedure, possible outcomesand results in detail. I would highlyrecommend both doctors and MarionGeneral Hospital for excellent care.—Robert Prahl, MarionA grateful patient highly recommends MGH for its excellent care.James M. Orrell, M.D.Michael A. Gunter, M.D.This text originally appeared as a letter to the editor in the Chronicle-Tribune.vim & vigor • spring 2010 49

Are You Ready toSave a Life?A Q&A about blood donationBlood donations help patients heal and recover. Simply put, blood donationssave lives. Read through the answers to these frequently asked questionsto find out if you are ready to become a hero and save a life.What is the most common typeof blood donation?Whole blood donation is most common. During this process,approximately one pint of blood is donated. Each unit of blood isthen separated into three products: red blood cells, platelets andplasma. Therefore, with each whole blood donation, up to threelives can be saved.Is donating blood safe?Donating whole blood is safe and simple. Strict procedures forevery step of the process ensure the safety of the donor and of theblood supply.How long does it take to donate blood?The entire process, from registration to refreshments, takesapproximately 45 minutes.How often can I donate blood?Whole blood donors can donate up to six times a year. You mustwait 56 days between whole blood donations to allow plenty oftime for your body to replenish red blood cells.Art Faulkner, retired from Marion General Hospital after 38 yearsof dedicated service, has made more than 107 blood donations—that’s more than 13 gallons!—since the 1960s.Donate TodayFor more information on donating blood, please contact theSouth Bend Medical Foundation Blood Donor Center at Marionat 765-662-4630.Where: 330 N. Wabash Ave., Suite G-10When: Monday and Tuesday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.Wednesday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.Thursday and Friday, 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.Saturday, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.go50vim & vigor · spring 2010

Blood donated at the South Bend Medical FoundationBlood Donor Center will be used for community membersand for Marion General Hospital and its patients.What are the requirements to donate blood?•You must be in good general health and feel well.• You must weigh at least 110 pounds.•You must be 17 years old, or 16 with written parental consent.•You must wait 12 months after having a tattoo applied or an earor body piercing.• You must have no open cuts.• You must not be pregnant.•You must be symptom-free of cold or flu for 72 hours.Will prescription medications keepme from being able to donate blood?Most people taking prescription medications are accepted asblood donors. You can either bring a list of your current medicationswith you at the time of donation or call prior to coming into see if you are eligible to donate.Who supplies blood and blood productsto Marion General Hospital?South Bend Medical Foundation is the primary supplier to MGH,so only blood donated at the foundation supplies blood and bloodproducts to MGH. Blood donated to other donation organizationsis typically used elsewhere.Whom do I contact if my company or organizationwould like to sponsor a blood drive?Please call Colleen Hahn at South Bend Medical Foundation at800-544-0925, ext. 1569.A.J. Stinger was just 8 years old when he was diagnosed withacute lymphoblastic leukemia. He is still undergoing treatmentand receives blood and platelets to stay healthy. A.J., now 10, is afourth-grader at Eastbrook School’s Washington Elementary.New Donor Center Ensures Blood SupplyMarion General Hospital and South Bend Medical Foundation have joined efforts toensure the needs of our community and our hospital blood supplies are met.Under the agreement, South Bend Medical Foundation opened a new donor center,which serves blood donors in the area, therefore allowing Marion General Hospital toconcentrate on strengthening other service lines.“Our expanded partnership with South Bend Medical Foundation to provide a newdonor center brings their knowledge and expertise to the community and enables us tofocus resources on providing other critical services for our Healthcare Community,” saysPaul L. Usher, Marion General Hospital’s president and CEO.“Our hope is that the community will be as excited as we are about the partnership,and we can assist donors in becoming heroes by saving the lives of others through blooddonations,” adds Robert Tomec, M.D., president of South Bend Medical Foundation.vim & vigor • spring 2010 51

KeepingYOUConnectedMGH’s redesigned website is a window to award-winning healthcareOne of the ways organizations sell servicesand inform the public in today’s electronic,fast-paced world is via a website. In manycases, a website is an organization’s opportunity tomake a great first impression—and, as the sayinggoes, you never get a second chance to make thatfirst impression.Healthcare providers are no exception. Peopleaccess hospital websites to find a wealth ofknowledge.Marion General Hospital’s improved website—which has been described as “information-packed,”“exciting” and “user-friendly”—reflects the hospital’saward-winning, nationally recognized healthcare.Please take a moment to check out the followingimprovements:• More professional look• Easier navigation• Quicker access tolocal health issues andinformation• User-friendly calendar• Online process torequest medical records• Faster access to physicianinformationAlso at the site, you can access a library of morethan 4,000 health and wellness articles coveringsome 1,500 medical topics—all absolutely freeof charge. Get the latest information on diabetes,heart disease, stroke and more. Plus, find outhow a test or procedure is performed, what youneed to do in advance to prepare for it, what therisks are, how the procedure will feel and why thetest is usually performed.“The new website is just one more way MGHis evolving and improving to best serve the needsof our HealthcareCommunity,” saysAnn Vermilion,administrative directorof public relationsand marketing.Check It OutTo discover all that MarionGeneral Hospital’s redesignedwebsite has to offer,visit www.mgh.net.go52vim & vigor · spring 2010

Employee Excellencepurposeworthwhileworkmaking adifferenceWho’s Lighting the Halls of MGH?Marion General Hospital honors itsemployees who embrace the spiritof service excellence through itsHeadlighter program. Here is MGH’smost recent group of employees whoearned the distinction.❋ Headlighters• Carolyn Lane, R.N., hospitalist• Ashley Bowers, R.N., pediatrics• Robyn Mercker, R.N., nursingadministration• Michele Renaud, informationtechnology• Mickie Banter, R.N., family birthingcenter• Vivian Wampler, patient accounts• Jan Miller, R.N., medical oncology• Dan Edwards, R.N., emergency room• Michele Myers, radiology• Gary Baker, respiratory careFeatured HeadlighterGary Baker, respiratory care, practicesthe golden rule in his daily roundsGary Baker was recognized by three different staffmembers for the compassion he showed for a particularpatient in the telemetry unit.Baker was assigned to telemetry as a respiratory therapist. Although he didnot have any orders for the patient, he was in the hallway and overheard a physiciangiving the patient a diagnosis of cancer, with a poor prognosis.Baker recognized the patient was by himself and might need someone tospeak to. When the physician left the room, Baker entered and pulled up a chairto sit at the patient’s bedside. Baker talked with him for about 15 minutes and,before he left the room, he encouraged the patient to ask for him if he wantedto talk further.The patient later told his nurse it was nice to have another man to talk to andhow much he appreciated Baker. He is an asset to MGH because he gives exemplaryservice to patients.The words kindness and compassion come to mind when thinking of Baker’sactions that day. He simply put himself in the patient’s shoes and treated thepatient the way he would want to be treated if the roles were reversed.Kindness and compassion are difficult for some, but to be successful inhealthcare, they are traits you should have when interacting with others. It isthe absolute right thing to do.vim & vigor · spring 2010 53

Volunteer ServicesThe Exciting Year AheadA message from MGH manager ofVolunteer Services Sheila StewartWhat is easy to do, doesn’tcost anything, makes youlots of friends, relievesstress and makes you feelbetter? Well, surprising asit may be, it’s volunteering!A study was completedby the University ofSheila Stewart Michigan Survey ResearchCenter on 2,700 peoplecovering 10 years and measuring the impactof social relationships on health. They foundthat regular volunteer work, more than anyother social activity, dramatically increasedlife expectancy.This was especially significant for men. Menwho did no volunteer work were 2½ times morelikely to die during the 10-year span than thosewho volunteered at least once a week.More and more studies reveal that doing goodis good for your health. All of us experiencestress, and our thoughts and feelings have a positiveor negative influence on our health. Peoplewho focus on others rather than themselves feeluseful, productive and good about themselvesand find they are too busy to dwell on their ownaches and pains or to feel depressed.People who help others are among the happiestand healthiest people in the world, so you’rereally doing yourself a favor by volunteering.MGH has more than 200 adult volunteerswho provide support to staff and help to offera wide variety of services to our patients. Allkinds of positions—suitable to all interests andskills—are available seven days a week, makingvolunteering at MGH convenient for yourpersonal schedule.Spring is a time of new beginnings. It is aperfect time to begin a personal commitmentto a healthier lifestyle by becoming one of MGH’scompassionate and dedicated volunteers.Volunteering is a fun and rewardingexperience—and an opportunity for you tomake a difference in the quality of life in ourcommunity.Get Involved callCall MGH Volunteer Services at765-662-4753 for more information.Volunteers of the MonthDecember Volunteer of the Month: JaniceSneed—Before volunteering at MGH, Janice Sneedfaithfully served students for 40 years as a welllikedand well-respected art teacher at EastbrookCommunity Schools. The Fairmount resident nowvolunteers at the MGH gift shop. “I enjoy meetingJanice Sneedpeople, seeing former students and interactingwith volunteers and staff,” Sneed says. “Volunteering at MGH is achance to be a part of a group that works together to help others.”When not volunteering, Sneed enjoys spending time with her fivegrandchildren, dogs, cats and—last, but certainly not least—Randy,her husband of 46 years.January Volunteer of the Month: Sue White—“Every day I come in to volunteer, I have the opportunityto make a difference in someone’s life,” saysSue White, providing reflection on why she volunteersat MGH. White worked as a school bus driverfor Marion Community Schools before retiring.Sue White“I heard MGH was a great place to volunteer,” shesays. For almost two years, she has volunteered as a mail clerk/courier.Besides helping and serving others, the position has an additionalbenefit: White gets plenty of healthy exercise when she delivers mailand packages.February Volunteer of the Month: YvonneRish—Yvonne Rish volunteers at the informationdesk at MGH. Prior to that, the “most fun” jobshe had was at a dinner theater in Florida. It gaveher the opportunity to meet Mickey Rooney, AlMartino and Frank Gorshin. Although she doesn’tYvonne Rishmeet stars at MGH, Rish enjoys volunteering.“MGH is a very worthwhile place to contribute your time,” she says.The Indiana native calls Florida her home, since she and her husbandof 50 years, Dee, lived there the past 30 years. At home, she enjoysgardening, cooking and reading her Bible.54vim & vigor · spring 2010

MGH Memorial GardenTHonoring former MGH employees, physicians and volunteersThe Marion General Hospital Memorial Garden,in the courtyard east of the cafeteria, wasbuilt in memory of former Plant EngineeringSupervisor Fred Gause and made possible by agenerous donation and support from the MGHAuxiliary. The garden honors MGH employees,physicians and volunteers who have passedaway, by displaying their names and departmentson engraved bricks set around the baseof a tranquil fountain.Those honored as of press time are:DonationsDelana Peden, volunteerDr. Carroll B. Warren, physicianGlenda Delon, pharmacyJohn Cook, ambulanceDr. Om Rehil, physicianHilda Glass, nursingMarigene Nicholson WelchGuy William “Sarge” McCray, surgeryPurchase a BrickBricks to honor MGH employees, physiciansand volunteers who have passed away can becallpurchased for a minimum donation of $25. Call VolunteerServices at 765-662-4753 for more information.Marion General HospitalEndowment FundIn 1994, the Marion General Hospital Endowment Fundwas started to accept donations to support the hospital’smission and vision for our Healthcare Community.Donations to the fund are sincerely appreciated. Call765-662-0065 or mail to:The Marion General Hospital Endowment FundCommunity Foundation of Grant County, Indiana Inc.505 W. Third St.Marion, IN 46952vim & vigor · spring 2010 55

Community ConnectionsFebruary to April 2010Continuouseducationprograms/support groupsgoSignUpFor informationabout any of ourprograms, pleasecall the numberslisted or visit ourwebsite at www.mgh.net.❋ ClassesDIABETESClasses are offeredmonthly. Physicianreferral is required. Formore information, calldiabetes education at765-662-4734.PRENATALEDUCATIONClasses provided inconjunction with FamilyService Society Inc.Classes are held at varioustimes throughouteach month. Please call765-662-4945 or visitwww.mgh.net formore information.SMOKING CESSATIONThis free five-classseries is cosponsoredby the American LungAssociation. Call765-662-4701.❋ SupportGroups (Allsupport groupsare free)BOOT CAMPFOR DADSVeteran dads teachfirst-time dads parentingskills and how tocare for their infants orolder children. For moreinformation, please call765-662-4945.HEARTPRINTSFor parents who havelost a child. The groupis facilitated by NanciRosinski, pastoralcounselor. For moreinformation, pleasecall 765-662-4533.REFLECTIONSCancer support group.Call 765-662-4766.Dates: Meets thethird Wednesday ofeach monthTime: 3 p.m.Location: ProgressiveCancer Care,831 N. Theatre DriveREHAB FAMILYSUPPORT GROUPThis group is availableto give support to familycaregivers of past andpresent acute rehabpatients. Resources tohelp when the patientreturns home are alsodiscussed. Please call765-662-4210 formore information.Dates: Meets eachWednesdayTime: 4:30 p.m.Location: AcuteRehab Dining Room,second floor,441 N. Wabash Ave.❋ CommunityServiceCAR SEAT SAFETYFree service for parentsand caregivers forinspection, fitting andinstructions on properinstallation of a childcar seat. (Both childand car seat must beat inspection.) Call765-662-4722 forappointment.Dates: Meets the firstand third Wednesdayof each monthTime: By appointmentonlyLocation: MGHParking Garage,441 N. Wabash Ave.56vim & vigor · spring 2010

Marion General Hospital441 N. Wabash AvenueMarion, IN 46952Non-Profit Org.US PostagePAIDVim & VigorACHIEVINGHIGHSTANDARDSEXCELLENTHip Hip HurrayRIG GHT ON great jobYahoo Bravocongratscongratscongrats Hip Hip HurrayEXCELLENTgreat jobBravo You did ddit!YahooYahoo RIGHT ONcongratcongratsRIGHT OYou did it!Bravo EXCELLENTgreat jobH ip Hip HurrayYou did it! YahooBravogreat jobRIGHT ON congratsH ip Hip HurrayYahoo great jobEXCELLENTYou did it!Yahoo congratsH ip Hip HurrayBravogreat jobRIGHTYahooMARION GENERAL HOSPITAL is accredited by the Healthcare FacilitiesAccreditation Program (HFAP) of the American Osteopathic Association. Theaccreditation demonstrates MGH has met the standards set forth by HFAP toprovide high quality care and compliance with governmental regulations.Dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of patient care, HFAP is one ofonly two national voluntary accreditation programs with “Deeming Authority”from the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services of the Federal Governmentto accredit hospitals and their clinical laboratories.