Annual Report 2016 single pagesPRINT

to join us on our adventure
St. John’s Healthcare Foundation |
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Our journey
BEGINS WITH YOU.
WA MESSAGE FROM THE SISTERS OF MERCY
hen the Sisters of Mercy were recruited by Fr. John Laubacher to build a hospital in
Oxnard, there was no land, no funding, and no medical staff. There was only the dream
of a modern hospital where residents could receive expert surgical and medical care.
The efforts of an entire community – physicians, farmers, bankers, and even newspaper
reporters – made it possible for that dream to become a reality. In 1912 St. John’s
Hospital opened its doors to “every man, woman, and child, irrespective of color or
creed, who may be suffering from physical ailment or pain.” – Bishop Conaty
The adventure of the Sisters of Mercy continues today as we follow in their footsteps
to heal the sick and help those in need. Your investment in St. John’s Healthcare Foundation ensures that we can
continue this ministry. Your donations make it possible for us to purchase high-tech equipment and to build stateof-the-art
facilities, and help us to provide free or low-cost services to underprivileged residents – health education,
health screenings, and medical services, hospitalization, food for hundreds of families, and emergency care bags.
Together we are a vibrant community who lives our beliefs and values every day by attending to our neighbor,
connecting people with community medical services and other vital resources so that we can all live a healthy life.
We are grateful and offer a blessing to you, our partner on this journey.
Blessings,
Sisters of Mercy for St. John’s Hospitals
Sister Suzanne Soppe, RSM, MPH
Community Health Education Department
Sister Suzanne Krawczyk, RSM, RN
Director of Palliative Care
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INSPIRATION FROM OUR BOARD CHAIR
Our passion is you – working for you to ensure that St. John’s Hospitals
endure as providers of quality patient care on which you can
depend. We are investing on your behalf in the future of healthcare in Ventura
County, designing facilities that contribute to healing and well-being for patients and
their families. We are all about you is about the work that we do together, working with
you to support people in need through our community programs.
Your support continues to help us build and grow our hospital through technology,
specialty services, and spaces – all of which enhance patient care and improve the
patient experience. Buildings and equipment alone do not provide healthcare. We
depend on the talented professionals who give their best every day to provide the best medical care to you and your
loved ones, and on dedicated volunteers who are making such a difference in the lives of others.
I am so proud of our work together and all that has been made possible by your caring investment of time,
treasure and talent. I thank you for helping us to promote humankindness through your faith and actions, and look
forward to connecting with you in the future.
Sincerely,
Billie Jo Rodriguez
Chair,
St. John’s Healthcare Foundation Board
St. John’s Healthcare Foundation |
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St. John’s Hospitals
VITAL STATISTICS
In May 1912 the Sisters of Mercy opened a temporary hospital in Oxnard. While they developed plans and raised
funds for a permanent hospital, they trained nurses for patient care. The new facility would offer twelve patient
rooms; maternity, as well as operating and sterilizing rooms. A kitchen would allow for preparation of patient
meals featuring produce grown on site by the Sisters.
Today, St. John’s Hospitals – St. John’s Regional Medical Center and St. John’s Pleasant Valley Hospital – are
members of Dignity Health, a nonprofit organization, and represent the largest acute-care health organization
in Ventura County offering award winning care through comprehensive medical services and programs
spanning 50 specialties.
St. John’s Hospitals welcomes anyone who enters, regardless of ability to pay. St. John’s Regional Medical Center
in Oxnard is a 265-bed hospital offering emergency care that includes award-winning stroke care and cardiac
surgery; modern maternity and childbirth center with a 16-bed neonatal intensive care unit; specialties, including
orthopedics and neurology; acute rehabilitation; and St. John’s Cancer Center of Ventura County.
St. John’s Pleasant Valley Hospital in Camarillo was founded in 1974 by a group of community leaders, who
like the Sisters of Mercy, held the belief that a hospital should be available in their community. The 155- bed
hospital in Camarillo provides emergency, acute and intensive care, and extensive surgery services; and houses a
hyperbaric medicine and wound healing center and a “five-star” 74-bed sub-acute facility. A major construction
and modernization project is underway and will be completed in 2018.
That spirit of compassion and kindness continues to be the light that sets St. John’s Hospitals apart and is found
in the people who provide care and for those who believe that a community should have quality medical care
available in the heart of their community. A grateful patient recently commented, “Though the medical care was
excellent, I was most moved by the concerned human beings who were responsible for my husband’s care. They
gave me the confidence that all was being done that could be done in a difficult situation.”
Our
PEOPLE
Full & Part-time Staff
1,887
Medical Staff with
hospital privileges
624
Volunteers
475
Our
IMPACTFY16
Babies Born
1,784
Surgeries Performed
7,294
Emergency Visits
82,635
Total Patients Served
160,187
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“For 100 years and
counting, the people
who have contributed
to St. John’s Hospital
have been the leaders
and the supporters
of an institution that
has demonstrated
compassion, kindness
and mercy for all who
have needed help.”
St. John’s Hospitals
STEWARD REPORT
St. John’s Healthcare Foundation reports Contributions of $6.2M and
Total Assets of $22.4M for FY16, ending June 30, 2016
n Contributions
n Total Foundation Assets
$6,234,915
Excerpt from a book on the
history of St. John’s Hospitals,
written by Jeff Maulhardt.
$22,370,843
St. John’s Healthcare Foundation |
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t. John’s nonprofit hospitals welcome and serve anyone with need, regardless of ability to pay. It is our goal
to serve the minds, bodies, and spirits of all who enter though our doors; and stand in partnership
with patients, employees and physicians to improve the health of all communities served.
WE DEDICATE OUR RESOURCES TO:
• delivering high-quality, affordable health services
• serving and advocating for the sisters and brothers who are poor and disenfranchised; and
S• partnering with others in the community to improve the quality of life.
Supported Programs, Services & Equipment
n Circle of Dignity Campaign
n Cardiovascular Services
n Cancer Care
n Equipment
n Palliative Care
n Patient Experience Enhancement
n Community Outreach 7 Education
n NICU
n Health Ministries
Annual Sources of Charitable Support
n Individuals
n Corporations & Organizations
n Foundations
n Board Members
3% 2%1%
4%
58%
2%
1%
4%
9%
4%
6%
6%
88%
18%
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St. John’s
LEGACY
uilt upon the strength of faith and a pioneering
spirit, St. John’s Hospital has served
Ventura County for over a century. Its
history demonstrates a foresight and
determination to address the needs of
others, no matter how great, and to Bprovide an unsurpassed quality of care.
St. John’s Healthcare Foundation |
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YOU MAKE our work
POSSIBLE
he pioneering spirit that the Sisters of Mercy brought to Oxnard over 105 years ago,
continues to live through the dedicated commitment of community members who
value St. John’s Hospitals and do what is possible to support our work. The funds
raised by these groups have been invested in the newest technology and equipment,
and support health programs and initiatives. We encourage you to take part in the spirit
of philanthropy through these giving organizations.
TST. JOHN’S HUMANITARIANS
In 1952 a band of champions stepped up to “save the day” when fundraising fell short for the construction of
the new St. John’s Hospital in Oxnard. Each of the men and women committed to a substantial investment of
personal wealth to address this critical need, and from there formed the Humanitarian Giving Society. Today,
64 years later, the Humanitarians continue to address healthcare needs at St. John’s, with kindness, compassion,
and resources. Each year we show our appreciation for today’s
Humanitarians with a lively reception, which this last year was
held at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library. More than 150
guests enjoyed a lovely evening where special recognition was given
to the 2016 Spirit of Philanthropy Award recipients, Gloria and
Jerry Reed, and James and Mona Cecil.
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ST. JOHN’S FRONTIER SOCIETY
The St. John’s Frontier Society was established to recognize
individuals who have notified St. John’s Healthcare Foundation
that they have designated a gift to the hospital through a bequest
or other estate plans. Frontier Society members receive special
invitations to luncheons and teas where there are opportunities
to engage with guest speakers and the giving community.
Incorporating charitable gift planning into your financial
and estate plans is an excellent way to leave a personal legacy
through a Bequest or through a Charitable Trust. Planned giving
enables a donor to arrange charitable contributions in ways that
maximize his or her personal objectives while minimizing taxes.
Depending on the asset given and the gift arrangement selected,
a donor can realize substantial benefits while still supporting St.
John’s Hospitals. Every contribution makes an impact, no matter how small. St. John’s is committed to working
with you to design and implement a charitable gift plan that works best for you.
e A day in the life . . .
Harriet Friedman knows personally how cancer can touch a life. The second time she was diagnosed with breast
cancer, Harriet was alone, without the support of her loving husband who was by her side after the first cancer
diagnosis six years earlier. Upon the recommendation of her oncologist, Harriet reached
out to St. John’s Cancer Center of Ventura County, where a team of experts provided a plan
of care, information and resources – the support she needed at the
right time. The personalized services she received, which included
the support of an Oncology Nurse Navigator, were free of charge.
Her experience at St. John’s inspired her to become a member of the
Frontier Giving Society so that she could contribute to the care of
other patients. Harriet gratefully acknowledges, “I could not have
gone through breast cancer alone a second time”. At St. John’s Cancer Center she
found someone to hold her hand “every step of the way” for the fight.
St. John’s Healthcare Foundation |
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YOU MAKE our work
POSSIBLE
Our paver donor program
is a wonderful way you can
honor someone special,
create a personal legacy and
give back to future generations
to come.
IN HONOR OF THE
JONES FAMILY
TO YOUR HEALTH!
THE CIRCLE OF DIGNITY CAMPAIGN
St. John’s Hospitals have established a foundation campaign encompassing
three distinct areas of support: to Discover, Build and Heal.
The Circle of Dignity Campaign focuses its
efforts on financial support of expansion
and modernization projects at both St. John’s
Pleasant Valley Hospital and St. John’s
Regional Medical Center. These projects
include cutting edge technology and support
of multiple service lines to better enhance patient care and experience.
The generosity and vision of our donors help ensure excellence in patient
care, medical education, and research. Based on the belief that good health
and well-being involve far more than just the absence of illness, the hospital
also develops preventive health outreach and education programs designed
to address key health issues in the community. The local community faces
numerous challenges, including the highest population of childhood obesity
in the county.
To “help families help themselves,” the hospitals have programs such
as the Health Ministries, Health Education and the Mobile Health Clinic, which serves children and families
through early childhood education, healthcare, flu and childhood vaccinations and more.
The generous support of our donors continues to make these types of projects a reality. Please consider
donating to St. John’s Healthcare Foundation today. Your efforts truly do make our work possible.
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ST. JOHN’S REGIONAL MEDICAL
CENTER - OXNARD
New Neo-Natal Intensive Care Unit Expansion
Program: The NICU at St. John’s has set the
standard for Ventura County and beyond,
with excellent care and forward thinking
initiatives. Providing exceptional care for
our smallest patients requires exceptional
accommodations.
We are developing a new area of the hospital,
which will include the following special
features:
• 20 Private NICU Rooms
• 4 private NICU Rooms can open into suites
to accommodate twins
• Private Isolation NICU Rooms
• Support & Storage Space
• On-Call Sleep Room
• Repertory Therapy Prep Room
• Family Lounge (w/Kitchenette & Shower)
• New Nursing Stations, adjacent to all
private NICU rooms
NEW PATIENT ADDITION
ST. JOHN’S PLEASANT VALLEY
HOSPITAL, CAMARILLO
St. John’s Pleasant Valley Hospital is proud to
announce our largest modernization project
in 42 years! This project, when completed,
will feature a 70,000+ sq. ft patient addition
to the current hospital. It will be attached
to the new emergency department that was
completed in 2007. Prominent features will
include:
• New surgical center with three
operating rooms
• Cath lab
• Comfortable and well lit waiting areas
• Kitchen/cafeteria,
• Chapel
• Gift shop
• Reception area
ST. JOHN’S REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER
EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT EXPANSION
AND MODERNIZATION
The Emergency Department at St. John’s
Regional Medical Center is the busiest in
Ventura County, caring for up to 200 patients in
an 8 hour period.
To address this increase in current volume,
and a greater anticipated need for future
resources, St. John’s is expanding the size of our
Emergency Department, to include:
• 26 Exam Rooms (1 Bariatric)
• 3 Private Triage Rooms
• 3 Trauma Bays
• 2 Psych Exam Rooms with supervision alcoves
• New X-Ray
• Bereavement and quiet space
• Lavatories
• 3 new Nursing Stations
St. John’s Healthcare Foundation |
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YOU MAKE our work
POSSIBLE
CIRCLE OF DIGNITY CAMPAIGN –
ST. JOHN’S PLEASANT VALLEY NEW PATIENT ADDITION
Our flight into the future is possible because of prudent investment
and community vision, expressed through the Circle of Dignity
Campaign. We are extremely proud of the build and remodel at
St. John’s Pleasant Valley Hospital in Camarillo that features a
beautifully designed patient tower and hospital entrance, as well as
enhancements to the current facility.
THE CHAPEL
The new Chapel at St. John’s Pleasant Valley Hospital will promote
a healing environment. It will be a sacred space where people in
all walks – patients, caregivers, and staff – can renew their spirits.
People will be able to find renewal in community during scheduled
services, or a place of solitude for quiet reflection. Religious art
and a beautifully designed space will contribute to a sense of peace.
Centrally located within a few feet of the new hospital entrance,
the Chapel will be easily accessible to patients and their families.
Generous friends of the hospital, who wanted to be a part of
something very special in the life of the Camarillo community, have
contributed to the building and interior space.
“We hope that this lovely
chapel signifies health
for the body, hope for
the mind, and peace
for the soul of patients,
families and staff at
St. John’s Pleasant Valley
and the community
surrounding the hospital.”
Nancy and John Borchard,
Naming Gift Donors for Chapel.
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SCHEDULED FOR COMPLETION IN 2018 ARE:
• 50 spacious private patient rooms that promote healing and well-being.
• A welcoming lobby designed for ease of access to services and patient rooms.
• New waiting areas and a redesigned café that will provide a healthy, relaxing environment for
patients’ families and friends.
• Three new technologically-advanced surgical operating suites.
• A state-of-the-art Cardiac Catheterization Lab will offer immediate access to life-saving technology.
St. John’s Healthcare Foundation |
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YOU MAKE our work
POSSIBLE
CIRCLE OF DIGNITY CAMPAIGN –
ST. JOHN’S REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER EMERGENCY
DEPARTMENT
The Emergency Department at St. John’s Regional Medical Center is the
busiest in Ventura County, and is mounting as our community continues
to grow. Expansion and modernization of the Emergency Department
will include 26 exams rooms, 3 private triage rooms, 3 trauma bays, 2
psych exam rooms, 3 new nursing stations, and new x-ray equipment.
New lavatories and bereavement space will support patients’ family
needs.
e A Personal Story
“The interesting thing about my profession is that you never know how
your day is going to turn out. You have to be prepared for anything. One
moment the ED can be quiet and the next disaster comes through the door.
A call came over the radio. A serviceman’s son was coming in and was
in cardiac arrest. The child had a history of cardiac arrest and difficulty
intubating due to congenital abnormalities. The intense situation was
emotionally charged. The child was young and had been in the emergency
room before. I asked God that He have a hand over me and help me make
the right decisions. Everyone was spot on, doing what could possibly be done. That day we gave him
every chance at life. The reality of emergency medicine is that sometimes everything is done, but it
doesn’t change the outcome. You try to be perfect, but just being human, you can’t be. I do the best
that I possibly can for each patient that I see. The great side of emergency medicine is that I have
the ability to make a difference when someone needs it most. That is a joyful feeling. Sometimes it
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is the simple things that catch me by surprise, like the man whose wife had a simple kidney infection,
but started crying because he realized he was going to be alone for the first time in 60 years. Or by a
Christmas card from the woman I treated for meningitis that said “I am able to write this letter and
spend Christmas with our family thanks to you and the staff at the hospital.”
NEONATAL INTENSIVE CARE UNIT (NICU)
Under construction is a remodel and expansion of the NICU that will include 20 private rooms
equipped with the state-of-the-art NICU technology, including Giraffe OmniBeds, and new nursing
stations featuring the latest in communications equipment. The new design and intimate setting
encourages parent involvement – offering comfort, conveniences, and privacy so that parents can spend
as much time as possible with the baby. Pull-out couches, bathrooms with showers, and breast pumps
are available in the rooms. Access to a family lounge with kitchenette and computer, makes it easier for
parents to spend the night.
LABOR, DELIVERY, AND RECOVERY
The remodel and expansion of the Labor, Delivery and Recovery area, when completed in 2018,
will feature 4 new private suites with modern birthing beds, a couch for dad, and bathrooms with
showers or bathtubs. The remodel will create a New Women's Center Entrance for mothers in labor
with 2 private OB triage areas, and a special Women’s Center Waiting Room.
Giraffe
OmniBed
Giraffe OmniBed is a
top-of-the line isolette,
designed to create an
environment as close as
possible to the mother’s
womb. Your investment
in St. John’s Healthcare
Foundation made
possible the purchase
of an additional Giraffe
OmniBed this year.
St. John’s Healthcare Foundation |
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YOU ARE improving
PATIENT CARE
We continue to rely on your support for St. John’s Hospitals so that we can continue to
improve patient care with the development of life-saving features and specialty services –
directly accessible in your community.
ST. JOHN’S ACUTE REHABILITATION CENTER IN OXNARD
Your investment this year in state-of-the-art equipment has transformed how inpatient
therapy is provided to those who have suffered from strokes or other traumatic brain
injuries. At the Acute Rehabilitation Center located at St. John’s
Regional Medical Center, our new Dynavision is now indispensable in helping patients improve
hand-eye coordination, peripheral awareness and visual-motor reaction time. The computerized
system provides immediate feedback to patients who are relearning to work with their bodies, as
well as patient performance and evaluation data for review by physicians and therapists.
Sherry Wright’s interest in physical therapy resulted from personal experience when she
suffered a back injury in high school that kept her out of CIF finals. She realized how “cool”
it was to have someone get you back to life again. In the Acute Rehab Center, staff work as
therapists, coaches and counselors; cajoling and inspiring patients to achieve a little each day so
that they can get to a place of healing. Sherry explains, “So why do I do this job? When people
come here they feel vulnerable and don’t know what to expect. Their future is in our hands. Our
work is challenging and requires our team’s creative efforts to be successful, making even an
ordinary day at St. John’s Acute Rehab Center rewarding.”
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YOU ARE
EMPOWERING OTHERS
Health begins with wellness and the opportunity to take charge of our own health. That is the focus
of the Health Ministries and Community Outreach programs and services. Your investment
makes it possible for St. John’s Hospitals to provide essential health and wellness services at no or
low-cost to our community’s residents – from infants to the elderly, and all ages in between – who
have limited access to resources. Today several St. John’s Hospitals Health Ministry programs
offer education and support so that community residents can learn how they can best prevent
disease and manage chronic health conditions.
DEEP
It is estimated that one in ten people in Ventura County have diabetes, and that one out of every four are
undiagnosed. Contributing to this growing public health issue is the increasing number of overweight or obese
children and teens, which has more than doubled in the last generation. In order to address this issue, in 2016
St. John’s introduced its new Diabetes Empowerment & Education Program (DEEP). DEEP is a comprehensive
program that offers health screenings, counseling and referral to medical services, and a series of educational
workshops in Spanish and English. A total of 29 people attended this first series. More than half were Spanish
speaking. A supportive peer environment helps participants to gain knowledge and skills so that they can make
healthy lifestyle choices and take control of their diabetes. Private donations and a generous grant from the
California Wellness Foundation helped to seed this important program.
SENIOR WELLNESS PROGRAM
Senior residents can stay fit and flexible through participation in fitness classes and a walking program. Glucose
screening and blood pressure checks help participants track their health status. Last year screening results showed
significant health improvements for the more than 60 seniors who participated in the walking adventure virtually
every week. We are grateful to the City of Oxnard for their continued support of the walking program.
St. John’s Healthcare Foundation |
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YOU MAKE our work
POSSIBLE
MOBILE UNIT
The Mobile Unit services are available throughout Ventura County at community events
to help prevent problems from undiagnosed health conditions, such as diabetes. In 2016
out of 1,050 adults and children who were tested, 183 tested abnormal, and 83 had no idea
that they were diabetic or pre-diabetic and were immediately referred for medical care.
The Mobile Unit staff also provided free immunizations and flu shots to children and
adults, blood pressure screening, BMI testing, and hemoglobin tests.
MOTHER AND CHILD WELLNESS
“Only when all children have the same opportunity for
a healthy start and when mothers, babies, children and
families have the best possible support for their health
and well-being can we, as a nation, say that we are
thriving.” W. K. Kellogg Foundation.
We are committed to ensuring that babies and their
mothers have a healthy start in life. St. John’s Regional
A $20,000 grant from
Livingston Memorial
supported immunizations
and vaccines through our
mobile unit.
Medical Center’s Healthy Beginnings program does just that. Its focus is on improving
the health of pregnant women to improve the health of mother and infant, especially for
women who are challenged by social and economic circumstances. Healthy Beginnings
offers pre-to post-natal education, medical care, enrollment in health programs, and
referrals to community services.
MEDICAL CAMP PARTNERSHIP
In partnership with our Lady of
Guadalupe Parish and Sathaiy Sai
Baba, St. John’s Healthcare Foundation
sponsored Ventura County’s only free,
full service medical camp, staffed by
physician and nurse volunteers. This
annual event is a highlight in our quest
to improve community health. More
than 500 adults and children received
health screenings (blood glucose,
hemoglobin, BMI, cholesterol, blood
pressure) and evaluation at the 2016
event. Additional services provided:
• 435 vision exams, with 400
prescription glasses donated by
the Oxnard Lion’s Club.
• 326 dental screenings
• 44 mammograms
• 57 pap-smears
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FOOD PANTRY
While many of us enjoy access to nutritious
food, not everyone in beautiful Ventura
County is as fortunate. Last year, St. John’s
Health Ministries Food Pantry made a
difference in the lives of more than 5,000
individuals – mainly pregnant mothers,
children and elders, with support of
nutritional food.
We do not accomplish this venture alone.
Partnerships with growers and non-profit
organizations make it possible for St. John’s to
receive free or at nominal cost, locally-grown
produce, canned food, and beans. Volunteers
at local churches distribute the food and
deliver hot meals, and connect families to
other resources, such as health education or
programs that help them move towards more
self-sufficiency. The Food Pantry provides its
services in donated space at 535 Cooper Road,
adjacent to Christ the King Church.
More than three-fourths of the families
served last year were families with children.
The numbers tell a great story. It is
heartwarming knowing that your investment
has helped a child in need have a chance at a
healthier life.
Last year a $20,000 grant from the Raskob Foundation made
it possible for St. John’s Food Pantry to significantly increase
the amount of fresh protein provided to each client
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YOU CARE about the
BIG THINGS
Cancer does not have a face until it is yours or someone you know.” Anthony Del Monte.
CANCER CENTER
The Cancer Center of Ventura County is the only one of its kind in the region. It is the
place that you or your family member can turn to when there is a diagnosis of cancer.
Regardless of where a patient is receiving treatment, the Cancer Center can offer
guidance and support along the cancer journey. Our Nurse Navigator, Alicia Zaragoza,
works with patients to develop personalized care plans that encompass an integrated
approach, involving a patient’s family, caregivers and medical providers.
The Cancer Center also provides bilingual education and access to timely, high-quality
cancer care, such as mammograms for women under 40. Cancer Center volunteers, trained by the
American Cancer Society, are available to provide information and resources. Other supportive
services offered at the Cancer Center include yoga, relaxation, breast prosthesis, and wigs.
The Cancer Center is accredited by the Commission on Cancer of American College of Surgeons
and is a member of the Association of Community Cancer Centers which adheres to the mission to
assist people with cancer by supporting all aspects of their care. We are grateful for our community’s
willingness to join us in the fight against cancer through their investment in the Cancer Center,
which in turn allows us to provide all services free of charge. For more information, call 805.988.2641.
Alicia Zaragoza, NP-C, CN-BN, is a trained oncology nurse practitioner and certificated breast cancer
navigator. Her primary focus is on breast and lung cancer. Alicia is devoted to her patients, serving
as a constant presence through the patient’s cancer journey. Her greatest satisfaction comes from
helping guide patients through a complex process of health care and systems. In 2014, Alicia received
the Fainer/Tauber award for “Nurse of the Year”, and in 2015 was honored by the Soroptimists
International of Oxnard with the “Women Making a Difference” award.
Grants from the Avon
Foundation for Women in 2015
and donor investment supports
patient services. In 2015, the
Cancer Center partnered with
the Soroptimists International
of Oxnard who host “Bras for a
Cause” to raise funds for breast
cancer surgery comfort kit bags,
and with The Pacific Corinthian
Club’s “Ladies Who Do Lunch”
of Oxnard, who hold an annual
fashion show and luncheon to
raise funds for free wigs, hats,
prosthesis, and other supplies
for women undergoing cancer
treatment.
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NUTRITION COUNSELING
The Nutrition Counseling Program at the Cancer Center is unique to the Tri-County
region, offering individualized services to cancer patients and their families. Services
are provided by a certified oncology nutrition specialist, Susan J. Speer, MS, RD, CSO,
FADA. A grant from Meadowlark Service League of Camarillo supports delivery of
nutrition services and bi-lingual nutrition education.
Cancer Center Services
2015/16
Breast cancer navigations:
176
Navigation services for
other cancer:
1,549
Educational services:
1,427
Under 40 Mammograms:
149
St. John’s Healthcare Foundation |
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...and about the
LITTLE THINGS
CUDDLERS
Cuddling is vital to a baby’s emotional and physical development, and is particularly important to little
ones who are hospitalized for long periods of time. Our tiniest patients receive extra care from our Cuddler
Volunteers in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, who provide the comfort of physical touch – holding,
talking and singing to the baby. Our Cuddlers offer mom and dad the peace of mind that their baby is being
held when they cannot be present at the hospital due to life commitments, such as caring for their other
children or jobs. Volunteers receive extensive training by Sharon Jones, St. John’s Director of Volunteer, so
that they can safely provide this loving touch.
FLOWERS
Giving flowers has been a way to communicate emotion for thousands of years. Flowers can lift the spirit and
serve as a reminder that we are important to someone. Saying it with flowers shows our patients that they
are a person first, that they matter, that we care. Legend has it that 15 years ago volunteer Barbara Anderson,
who has since retired, decided that she wanted to do something for her community. She met with a local
grocery store chain to request unsold flowers, and while there she met the owner of Sun Valley Flowers
who was inspired by Barbara’s proposal and offered to donate what was required. Now every Monday
morning at St. John’s Pleasant Valley Hospital you will find volunteers
making beautiful flower arrangements that are placed throughout the
hospital, adding cheerful grace to areas frequented by patients’ families.
Volunteers also make bud vases that are a bright spot on patients’ trays
once a week.
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“Many patients and their families are here for extended periods of time and we feel that these flowers may soften a little the
difficult time that they are experiencing,” says Sets Umeda, who is starting her eighth year as a volunteer. “People love what
we are doing. Most of us feel that we are giving back doing something that makes life a touch brighter for someone else. It’s
that feeling that keeps us going every week.”
It is obvious that the volunteers love it too. This close-knit group has found friendships that enrich their lives beyond
their Monday morning work.
PROJECT PEOPLE
Fifteen stuffed ponies gallop to the aid of children in the Emergency and X-ray Department every week, crafted with love by
the Project People at St. John’s Pleasant Valley. The small group meet weekly and also craft tray favors to brighten up patient
meals during the holidays, and stuff pillows that are hand painted by a local artist for patients who have had surgery.
St. John’s Healthcare Foundation |
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YOU ARE INVESTING in the
FUTURE OF HEALTH PROFESSIONALS
THEALTH SCHOLAR PROGRAM
hose special touches that our patients appreciate are often provided by volunteer ‘Health
Scholars’ at St. John’s Hospitals. The Health Scholar Program offers students the opportunity
to explore a career in medicine in a real life setting at St. John’s Hospitals. The Health Scholar’s
adventure is up close and personal as students fully immerse in the health care setting, working
by the side of health care professionals in nursing, medicine and health care administration.
More than 300 students took part in the program last year.
Health Scholars gain valuable experience as they observe medical procedures and provide direct
patient care with activities such as bathing, ambulating, and discharge. Equally important,
while Health Scholars provide comfort and companionship at bedside, they develop profound
insights into what patients encounter. “A lot of what we are doing is about the patient experience,” says Sarah
Contreras, Health Scholars Program Manager. “We realize the importance of listening and getting to know the
patient through frequent hospital rounds.”
Since the program was launched in 1995, more than 3,000 students have graduated from the program. St. John’s
Hospitals has hired 65 of the graduates, a significant return on investment as these health care leaders truly understand
the culture of service, excellence in care, and humankindness that we value and contribute to the greater good of our
community. St. John’s Hospitals Health Scholar Program is affiliated with UCLA
Fielding School of Public Health, and so upon graduating from the program, students
are awarded a Certificate in Patient Experience and Pre-licensed Clinical Care.
Last June, at our very first annual COPE Health Scholar Alumni Reunion, we had
an amazing opportunity to bring together current and former Health Scholars – all
at different stages in their health care careers. They shared personal stories both from
their time in the program while at St. John’s and afterwards, pursuing their careers.
Together we saw that the path to a career in health care takes many forms, each on
adventure of its own.
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e A day in the life . . .
While attending UCLA, Chelsie Dietz participated in St. John’s Hospitals Health Scholar program. “I had a lot
of conversations with patients who were afraid of dying, or were tired of being in pain. I learned how sometimes
good healthcare involves sitting and listening to a patient. Sometimes there isn’t a solution or an action that can be
immediately taken. I saw nurses do this and heard patients talk about how much that meant – to feel like your provider
cares about your entire self, not just the physical. I also saw how patients responded in the ICU to doctors who strived
to be transparent and compassionate in their care giving, who took the time they needed to address the patient’s and
families concerns. I saw how this was healing in a way too, and I learned a lot about the kind of doctor I want to be.”
St. John’s Healthcare Foundation |
25

YOU ARE making
A DIFFERENCE
OVOLUNTEER ACTIVITIES/PROGRAMS
ur volunteers are integral to the environment of care, compassion and service we offer at
St. John’s Hospitals. As highlighted throughout this report, volunteers are a great
resource to patients, visitors and staff in many hospital departments. The commitment
and passion they bring inspires others and enriches our hospital community. Last year,
volunteers invested the labor equivalent of $1,613,860, a total of 68,500 hours (27,300 at
St. John’s Pleasant Valley Hospital and 412,000 at St. John’s Regional Medical Center).
Is there a volunteer adventure in your future? Volunteers have in common an
adventurous spirit that stirs them to use their life experience to do something for
others. But there are compelling reasons to volunteer beyond giving
back to a cause in which you believe. Studies show that volunteering
is good for your health. It is an opportunity to learn new skills, make
real connections with people and become a part of a community, while
making a difference in someone’s life. For more information on our
volunteer opportunities call 805.988-2627.
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GIFT SHOP
Your shopping escapade begins here! At St. John’s Hospitals Gift Shops you can find the perfect little gift,
flowers, or edible treats for a loved one in the hospital. Once you discover our little shop of treasures on the
main floor lobby at each hospital, you will come back to shop for yourself or when you need a unique gift for
someone special. Come in and let our Auxiliary Volunteers guide you through your adventure as you explore
the ever-changing offerings through every season. Your bonus gift is the gratification of knowing that the
proceeds from your purchase helped to support patient care.
PET THERAPY
St. John’s four-legged friends offer our patients the unconditional love that only man’s best friend can bring.
Without words, dogs understand our human emotions through body language and voice. Their companionship
during a hospital stay helps patients to stay focused on something beyond their pain and illness.
Pet therapy helps people to heal. Research shows that after only 15 minutes of petting a dog, people have
decreased blood pressure and lessened anxiety as a result of increases in feel-good brain chemicals – cortisol,
serotonin, and dopamine.
More than a dozen dogs, accompanied by their trained owner-volunteers, dole out comfort and joy at
patients’ bedside – which is at times the best medicine available.
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YOU ARE making
A DIFFERENCE
e Joe’s Adventure
Fifteen years ago my wife and the love of
my life, Roberta, was diagnosed with an
autoimmune disease. Emergency room visits
became regular events, often followed by
in-hospital stays as she required multiple
medical procedures for conditions that
were at times life threatening. St. John’s
Pleasant Valley Hospital became a familiar
place where my wife received outstanding
medical care in conjunction with
thoughtful attention, which gave us the confidence that people who cared
for us, also cared about us as persons.
As any frequent flier can attest, familiarity leads to opportunities for
deeper observation of an organization and its services, which in my case
led to action. On multiple occasions I toured the hospital with various
department administrators and spent shifts in the emergency room
alongside medical staff. As I experienced the hospital from a different
perspective, the realization dawned on me that perhaps I could help make
my hospital, which was already great, even better. And so my adventure
began. . .
After my stint in the emergency room as an observer, I met with
Dr. Jeffery Davies, then the Chair of Emergency Medicine, to discuss how
I could help by fully utilizing my life experience as a business executive.
Our emphasis was the patient. In particular how to bring comfort to
patients in the emergency room.
In July, I began volunteering in the Emergency Department. My job was
to relieve patient anxiety and stress through communication. Having
spent more than forty years in marketing and sales in the aerospace
industry, I had no trouble connecting with patients. The feedback was
positive as patients’ outlook improved and pressure on medical staff was
reduced. This prompted the official launch of the Emergency Patient
Ambassador Program.
EPA - EMERGENCY PATIENT AMBASSADOR PROGRAM
• Communicate with patients. At times this could be just talking with
someone who is alone, or explaining how long lab test results can take.
• Support patients with non-medical needs, such as calling a family
member or arranging for transportation.
• Show compassion and concern for patients and their families.
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The EPA is currently supported by volunteers who serve two or three shifts per
month. We meet monthly to learn from each other and to connect with medical staff.
We welcome volunteers so that we can grow our team by next year.
Recently, while out in the community the comment was posed, “when I was at your
hospital.” Purposely I replied, “I am a volunteer. This is your hospital, my hospital.
What do you want our hospital to be?” I know what I want. I want a hospital where
my family can get the best care possible and I will do everything I can to make that
possible. Please join me in this effort, this journey, this great adventure.
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YOU ARE who we
CARE FOR
ASPIRITUAL CARE
t St. John’s Hospitals we recognize that a patient’s spirituality is often vital to the healing
process, particularly when a patient is facing a chronic illness, suffering or loss.
Our role is to provide compassionate spiritual care for people of all faiths –
listening to the hopes and fears of patients and their families, honoring their
beliefs, and supporting them with their health care decisions.
The ideal healing environment inspires a sense of calm. Here we mindfully
invest in spaces and ambient quality to create a place that contributes to healing
of mind, body and spirit. Throughout the day uplifting music and visual images
are available in patient rooms on the C.A.R.E. Channel, which at scheduled times shows services
taking place at our beautiful Chapel. Soothing music, as well as waterfalls, can be heard in the
healing garden where families and ambulatory patients can be found meditating or relaxing.
Your investment allows us to care for those who are in need of healing. “You help us to
transform hurt into hope,” George West, Vice President Mission Integration.
DAVID KNAPP, SPIRITUAL CARE SUPERVISOR SJPVH
It is in moments of crisis that we journey through loss, or the angst associated with the possibility
of loss, that we are painfully aware of how dependent we are on each other. Even in the simplest
of surgeries when we are put to sleep we lose control. This is when those of us receiving care rely
totally on our caregivers, families, friends, and God to pull us through. It is at this time that we as
providers are there to offer hope and healing. I am grateful to live this mission, where my passion
is connected to a team of people who work together for those entrusted to our care.
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PALLIATIVE CARE
When pain, stress, and other symptoms affect the lives of patients with chronic illness or life-threatening
conditions, our Palliative Care team is there to help. Our work is about providing relief from suffering and
supporting the best possible quality of life for any hospitalized patient who is managing a life-changing injury, or a
serious disease and side effects from treatment.
Palliative Care provides specialized medical care for pain and symptom management, as well as, education and
support, based on patients’ goals for care and treatment options. We coordinate care and communication between
physicians and families, and provide emotional support and spiritual care that respects the patient’s faith, beliefs
and values.
Music therapy and
the Care Channel
is offered at both
St. John’s Hospitals
facilities thanks
to a grant from
the Diane Warren
Foundation.
e A day in the life – Sr. Suzanne
“Palliative care is the glue that holds things together for patients and families as they journey through serious
illness or injury. People who care about this issue invest in resources that allow us to provide innovative services,
such as live music therapy. We have found that there is nothing like music to help people get in touch with what is
most meaningful. Music connects us to others and brings solace in the present, and is just one of the ways that we
provide care at a time of crisis.” Sister Suzanne, RSM, RN, Director of Palliative Care.
St. John’s Healthcare Foundation |
31

ABOUT ST. JOHN’S HEALTHCARE FOUNDATION
Established in 1985, St. John’s Healthcare Foundation is dedicated to advancing the mission of St. John’s Hospitals
through the development and coordination of philanthropic resources. We work closely with the Foundation
Board of Directors and with the St. John’s Hospitals Administration to ensure that these resources are invested in
support of patient care and community services.
We are proud to partner with the many individuals and organizations who are working every day to improve
healthcare in Ventura County.
Our Foundation Staff
Debi Klein, Vice President of Philanthropy
805.988.2635
Deborah.Klein@DignityHealth.org
Heather Huffman, Major Gifts Officer
805.981-7308
Heather.Huffman@DignityHealth.org
Jackie Laughton, Operations Coordinator
805.988.2821
Jacqueline.Laughton@DignityHealth.org
Lisa Smith, Grant and
Communication Specialist
805.988.2631
Lisa.Smith3@DignityHealth.org
Deesha Mohan, Administrative Assistant
805.988.2868
Deesha.Mohan@DignityHealth.org
Sharon Jones, Director of Volunteer Services
805.988.2627 or 805.389-5651
Sharon.Jones@DignityHealth.org
Patty Paumier, Gift Shop Manager,
St. John’s Regional Medical Center
805.988-3601
Patty.Paumier@DignityHealth.org
Debbie Lasley, Gift Shop Manager,
St. John’s Pleasant Valley
805.389.6697
Debbie. Lasley@DignityHealth.org
Sarah Contreras Ortiz, Program Manager
COPE Health Solutions (Health Scholars)
805.988.2020
scontreras@copehealthsolutions.org
32 | 2 016 annual report

Board Members | Officers
Billie Jo Rodriguez, Chair
CPA, Managing Partner, Soares, Sandall,
Bernacchi & Petrovich
Gregory Glover, Vice Chair
Senior VP, Regional Manager,
City National Bank
Jaye Heybl, Treasurer
Managing Partner, Koppel Patrick Heybl
& Philpott
Nancy Schreiner, Secretary
Law Offices of Nancy Kierstyn Schreiner
Jerry Zins, Jr.,
Immediate Past Chair
Sr. Managing Director,
Summit Wealth Management Group
Board Members
Nancy Borchard
Community Advocate
Joe Burdullis
Retired, Agriculture CFO
Dan Burrell
President, Jersey Mike’s West, LLC
Mike Foxworthy
Executive VP/Branch Manager, DAUM
Commercial Real Estate
Suzanne Fussell, MD
Physician, St. John’s Hospitals
Founder, Healthwise Home Care Solutions, Inc.
Dee Geverink
Community Advocate
Darren Lee
President and CEO, St. John’s Hospitals
Mary Anne McCabe
SJRMC Auxiliary Vice President
James McPherson, MD
Cardiovascular & Thoracic Surgeon
Trevor Morris
VP and Sr. Relationship Manager,
Wells Fargo Bank
Joseph Muklevicz
Semi-Retired: International Aerospace
Consulting Business
David Press
Owner, Santa Rosa Plaza
Chuck Purcell
IT Operations Leader,
Hewlett-Packard Enterprise
Jim Scanlon
Area President, Arthur J. Gallagher & Co.
Gallagher Insurance and Risk Mgt.
Haimesh Shah, MD
Ventura Vein Center and Hyperbaric
Medicine and Wound Healing Center
SJRMC
Elaine Snyder
Auxiliary President, PVH
Donald Toussaint
Executive VP, Citizens Business Bank
Karuna Valiveti
Office Manager, Vinod Valiveti, MD,
Physician Group
Laura Viets
Owner, Paramount Fiduciary Group, LLC
Katie Waunch
Community Advocate
St. John’s Healthcare Foundation |
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34 | 2 016 annual report
1600 N. Rose Avenue
Oxnard, California 93030
(805) 988-2868
www.supportstjohns.org