Winona Health - Healthy Connections Summer 2008

Summer 2008

Providing care for you and your family • Primary care providers: your advocate for life-long health • Your guide to a healthy summer • Winona Health caregivers honored as Guardian Angels

The importance of primary care Healthy Connections is published by Winona Health to provide you with information about health, wellness and the many healthcare resources available to you, close to home. Sending you Healthy Connections is just one example of how we’re working to fulfill our mission of improving the health and well-being of our family, friends and neighbors. We welcome your questions, suggestions or comments about Winona Health and this publication. Please visit winonahealth.org and click on Contact Us or call Winona Health Communications/Marketing at 507.474.3328. If you no longer wish to receive Healthy Connections, please call 507.474.3328 or send an e-mail, noting your address as it appears on the back of the publication, to [email protected].

In this issue... 2 3 4 6 8 10 11 12 13 15

The importance of primary care Healthy Kids Club: Step into Summer Enjoy a healthy summer! Children benefit from outdoor activities Your advocate for life-long health: your primary care provider Primary care for women: obstetrics/gynecology Winona Health primary care providers Winona Health provider directory Foundation & Auxiliary news Winona Health news & notes

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n occasion I’ve used this column to share my thoughts on the importance of having high quality primary care in our community. Recently I was again grateful for Winona Health’s providers and processes. My parents were in Winona for my father’s scheduled surgery at Methodist Hospital in Rochester, when my mother—a retired registered nurse—asked me to take her to our Emergency Department. Within minutes of her arrival, the physician diagnosed my mother’s heart attack, thus activating our heart attack protocols. Less Rachelle H. Schultz President/CEO than 90 minutes later, she was in the catheterization lab at Gundersen Lutheran in La Crosse. (We have similar heart attack protocols in place with Mayo Clinic.) Personally and professionally, I am so proud and appreciative of the doctors, nurses and other professionals in our Emergency Department. The efficiency with which they diagnosed my mother’s condition...had helicopter transportation arranged … notified the catheterization team ...was amazing. And my mother is recuperating nicely. Meanwhile, my father’s medical needs also were bridged by local providers as his surgery was delayed. My parents are pleased and grateful for the healthcare they received in Winona. As a visitor to any other community, would you receive this level of care and service? Winona Health’s purpose is to meet this community’s primary healthcare needs—and our community includes not only full-time area residents, but also our snowbirds, college students and visitors. We know addressing your healthcare needs may involve referring you to tertiary health systems when a higher level care is needed. But these referrals, and the ongoing care required after the tertiary care is delivered, can be done by our expert, compassionate Winona Health caregivers. I’ve been a proud member of the Winona Health team for almost six years now— and I’ve often wished that everyone (my parents included) could have the caliber of providers and healthcare we have in Winona. It was evident to me, yet again, that the Winona Health team is committed to providing exceptional healthcare to our family, friends and neighbors.

16 Upcoming classes & events On the cover: Scott Birdsall, MD, visits with Linda Williams and her youngest daughter at the Winona Center for Women’s Health. 2

Rachelle H. Schultz President/CEO

Healthy Connections • Summer 2008

Step into Summer

Join us for Healthy Kids Club Step into Summer!

Saturday, May 31 • Walk begins at 9 a.m. • Celebration activities continue until noon

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ids age 6-11 and their families are invited to participate in Step into Summer, a casual and non-competitive walk with fun along the way. Walkers will start at the bike path near Winona Health’s Lake Winona Manor, walk to the Jaycee Pavilion for a healthy snack, then walk back to the Winona Health campus. Total walking distance is almost two miles. Please park in Winona Health’s northwest parking lot between the hospital and Lake Winona Manor.

Strollers and wheelchairs are welcome, but please leave your bikes, skateboards, rollerblades and pets at home. Listen to Winona Radio for event cancellation in case of threatening weather.

All walkers who register for the event and finish will receive tickets to use for inflatables (yes, the Ironman is back!) located on the Winona Health campus. Project Get Outdoors, the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge, and the US Fish and Wildlife Service also will be on-site to provide fun, hands-on outdoor activities where kids can practice fishing, sit in a canoe and tent, and use binoculars. Registration is required for this free event and children must be accompanied by an adult. To register, please visit winonahealth.org/HKC or call 507.457.4161.

The Ironman—A popular feature at the Healthy Kids Club kick off event in October 2007, the Ironman inflatable will be on the Winona Health campus for walk participants to enjoy during Healthy Kids Club Step into Summer, Saturday, May 31.

Help keep our community’s families healthy! As part of HKC’s Step into Summer, donations of canned fruits, peanut butter and juices are encouraged for Winona Volunteer Services Food Shelf. Visit our Healthy Kids Club website and see why one Healthy Kids Club participant said, “I love this website. Thanks for inspiring me so much!” You’ll find fun and helpful information and ideas to stay healthy—or to improve your health! The Healthy Kids Club website: winonahealth.org/HKC. Healthy Connections • Summer 2008

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Enjoy a healthy summer! S

ummer provides a welcome opportunity to enjoy the beauty of our area with family and friends. Whether we’re working in the yard, relaxing or participating in recreational activities, there are common summer-time situations that may cause anything from minor discomfort to severe, life-changing events. Rebecca Lamberty, RN, CEN, Winona Health director of Emergency Services, noted that Emergency Department and Urgent Care physicians see an increase in people seeking treatment for bee stings, poison ivy exposure, dehydration and sunburn during the summer. More outdoor activities also increase the chance for injury, so physicians advise making sure tetanus shots are current. Lamberty reminds people who enjoy time on the lakes and rivers to learn about water safety. “Things happen so quickly,” she said. “If people are prepared by learning about boating and water safety, they’re more likely to know how to react to an unexpected situation.” Along with wishing you a safe, healthy summer, Winona Health experts offer the following tips to improve your health and well-being:

Certified Athletic Trainers: An Ounce of Prevention Winona Health’s Certified Athletic Trainers and the National Athletic Trainers Association remind you to take precautions against heat-related illnesses during physical activity. Heat illnesses include: exercise-associated muscle cramps, heat syncope (sudden dizziness and sometimes fainting), exercise (heat) exhaustion and heat stroke. Added Judi Tekautz, ATC, “Preventive measures 4

Healthy Connections • Summer 2008

can significantly decrease one’s risk of heat illness during athletic participation.” To prevent heat illness: • Educate yourself about the prevention, recognition and treatment of heat illnesses. • Maintain adequate fluid intake. • Get proper rest in a cool environment; eat a wellbalanced diet; and maintain proper hydration prior to exercising. • Follow guidelines for exercising in hot, humid weather; continuously monitor environmental conditions and use planned rest breaks. Children are at a higher risk for heat illnesses due to decreased ability to sweat, higher skin temperature, decreased ability to acclimate and smaller body size. Extra care should be taken when they are participating in activities during warm weather. Frequent rest periods and fluid intake every 15 to 30 minutes is mandated—even if children are not thirsty. “As we age, our ability to adapt to the stress of exercise in hot weather also decreases,” Tekautz noted. “Older athletes should consult with their physician regarding any

increase risk of exercise, particularly in hot weather. But as a general rule, regular fluid intake is critical.”

Angela Gullickson, LICSW: Families who play together

For more information, visit winonahealth.org/sports or speak with a certified athletic trainer at Winona Health Sports & Orthopaedic Specialists 507.474.6600.

Summer often provides increased family time. According to Angela Gullickson, LICSW, Winona Health Psychiatric & Counseling Services, “Parents and children joint activities are an important factor in healthy development through adolescence. It increases communication and creates family rituals. Time spent together contributes to the well-being of each family member.”

Dermatologist Frank A. Bures, MD: The skinny on summer skin care Dermatologist Frank A. Bures, MD, Winona Clinic, offers the following tips for summer skin care: • Protect skin from overexposure to the sun. The sun protection factor (SPF) numbers listed on sunscreen are guides to their effectiveness. “An SPF of 45 implies you could be in the sun 45 times longer than if you weren’t using the product before you burn,” Dr. Bures said. • Avoid poison ivy resin/rash. “You cannot spread the rash from poison ivy by transferring it to your other parts or other people,” Dr. Bures stated. However, the resin can be spread by contact with the plants or from resin stuck on objects such as tools, clothes, or dog hair. So wash with soap and water or clean with rubbing alcohol to get rid of the resin.

Gullickson noted that family time seems to be disappearing in our society. “This reduction in family time has a significant effect on our children, as low attachment to parents and nature is associated with substance abuse, depression and other health issues.” “We live in a beautiful environment, and spending time here can only enhance our well-being.” Gullickson’s recommendation for a great summer? “Let the bluffs and the mighty Mississippi be an agent for change for your family. Get outside, start communicating and take advantage of the surroundings. Your kids will thank you!” For more information about Winona Health Psychiatric & Counseling Services, visit winonahealth.org or call 507.454.2606.

• Treat bug bites and bee stings. “Almost all bug bites look the same: they appear as a red itchy bump with a hole on top,” Dr. Bures explained. Ice is a good antiitch approach, as is applying wet meat tenderizer. If you or your child is allergic to bee stings, be sure to carry an up-to-date epinephrine pen. • Protect against tick bites. The most effective repellant for ticks is Deet. Twenty percent is high enough to work, according to Dr. Bures. Be sure to read product directions and warnings. Dr. Bures encourages everyone to “enjoy the summer and remember: Swatting those mosquitoes is burning calories!” To make an appointment in the Dermatology Department, call: 507.457.7670.

For healthy summer snacking ideas from dietitian Heidi Ferris, RD, CDE, visit winonahealth.org/EatSmart. Healthy Connections • Summer 2008

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Children benefit from outdoor activities

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chool is out … the sun is shining … and the trees are green—It must be summertime in the Winona area. This beautiful region offers many opportunities for children to have a healthy and active summer. Diane Montgomery, PT, Cert. MDT, and Jamie Thoreson, OTR/L, are therapists for Winona Health’s Rehab Services. They encourage children and parents to take advantage of these warm months to enjoy the health benefits of outdoor activities. “We live in such a beautiful area,” Montgomery said. “There are so many activities for children to experience and receive wonderful benefits from.” Thoreson added, “Activity helps organize the brain. Children need to move in order to learn.” Montgomery and Thoreson often work together in Rehab Services’ pediatric area. (See next page for more information.) Both agree that some of the most basic toys and activities have the greatest benefits for children. They encourage children and families to enjoy the following activities in these warm-weather months: • Swimming helps all children with general body strengthening, range-of-motion and balance. The buoyancy of the water allows for low-impact motion, 6

Healthy Connections • Summer 2008

easing the ability to move and relieving joint pain. Even the sensation of the water is beneficial to children. “Swimming is a great all-around activity,” Montgomery said. “The feeling of the water on the skin has great sensory benefits for children.” • Walking or running on varying surfaces—grass, sand, playground mulch—helps with strength, muscle balance and sensation in a child’s legs. • Playgrounds/jungle gyms offer a wide variety of activities beneficial to children, including climbing, balancing, sliding and swinging. Multi-dimensional activities like these help children’s organizational skills for both motor and brain function. • Bicycling and inline skating also help with general strengthening, balance and coordination. “It is important to remember to wear the proper protective gear when participating in these activities,” Montgomery advised. “Staying safe goes hand in hand with being healthy.” • Playing catch is great for hand/eye coordination and involves the whole body. Just by throwing a softball or football, children engage their upper body, core and lower body muscles.

• Horseback riding has many therapeutic benefits “Not only are kids being active, but they also are sharing, both sensory and strengthening. “When riding a problem solving and developing skills.” horse, balance and trunk control are engaged and Every child is unique and their the motion of the horse forces interests in certain activities will the riders’ hips to move in a vary, but Montgomery suggests walking motion,” Thoreson Activity helps organize the that just getting children outside noted. Therapeutic horsebackbrain. Children need to move in will provide an opportunity for riding programs have shown them to develop a wide-range many benefits for children order to learn. of movement and skills that with physical and or emotional Jamie Thoreson, OTR/L will benefit their health. “A disabilities. balanced lifestyle that includes The summer months also offer many team sport a variety of physical activities is best,” Montgomery said. opportunities.“Playing in groups or on a team has great “You don’t need fancy equipment for an activity to be social and developmental benefits,” Thoreson said. beneficial.”

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Meeting chidren’s rehabilitation needs

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inona Health Rehabilitation Services, located at Sarnia Square, is expanding its pediatric therapy, thanks to a donation from the Winona Health Auxiliary. Corrie Searles, director of Rehabilitation Services, is very grateful for the donation that will purchase new pediatric rehab equipment. “There is a need to provide these services to the community, and this new equipment allows us to strengthen our pediatric offerings,” she noted. The new equipment includes: an inflatable pool filled with play balls; mats; bean bag chairs; a tunnel; climbing ladder; gross-motor activity kit; and a variety of swings suspended from the ceiling. The additional equipment will allow staff to incorporate more sensory integration therapy into its children’s services. Sensory integration therapy helps children who are affected emotionally and/or physically by environmental sensitivities—touch, movement, sights or sounds—that affect their learning, motor development or behavior. It helps children focus on their activities despite the presence of stimulation and helps parents and teachers modify childrens’ environment to help them cope. Winona Health’s Rehab staff is certified to care for pediatric patients. “We are seeing a lot more children,” Searles said, “and we can incorporate activities that promote their rehabilitation, while allowing them to do something fun.” Patients seeking rehabilitative care must be referred to Winona Health’s Rehab Services by their primary care provider. For more information call 507.457.4329 or visit winonahealth.org.

Winona Health Rehab Services also offers the following pediatric therapies: • Physical therapy focuses on gross motor skills from crawling to running; balance and core strengthening; post-injury or postsurgery mobility. • Occupational therapy works on hand/eye coordination for activities such as eating, writing, dressing and other daily tasks requiring a variety of fine motor and social skills. • Speech therapy works with basic oral-motor skills, communication, problem-solving and attention disorders, as well as swallowing/ sucking reflexes. • Massage therapy helps with overall muscle relaxation and sensation. Infant massage can help soothe colic symptoms.

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From the Cover

Your advocate for life-long health: your primary care provider P rimary care providers are physicians, nurse practitioners and physician assistants who provide first contact and ongoing care for a person’s healthcare needs. Most often, family practice, internal medicine and pediatric providers are considered “primary care providers,” with obstetricians/gynecologists also serving women’s primary care needs.

To maximize lifelong health and wellness, it’s important to develop a relationship with a healthcare provider—though some say it’s better to create a partnership with them. “When you’re comfortable with a healthcare provider who knows your Establishing a relationship—Primary care providers establish important health history and what’s normal for relationships with their patients and are knowledgeable of the patient’s medical history. Above, Lisa Nutter, FNP-C, visits with one of her young patients at Lewiston Clinic. you, you’re more likely to talk with him or her about any concern—and Off to a healthy start—pediatric, he or she will make recommendations based on what adolescent and young adult care they already know about your health and what’s normal for you,” said Donna Kamann, NP, a nurse practitioner Pediatricians are skilled in assessing the physical, in Winona Clinic’s Family Medicine Department. In emotional and social health of infants, children, addition, your primary care provider serves as your adolescents and young adults. They focus on prevention, advocate in referring you to other healthcare services. detection and management of health issues that affect You do have options when it comes to selecting a primary care provider. Consider your personal needs and find someone you feel comfortable with. For the options available to you in the greater Winona, Rushford or Lewiston areas, see the directory on page 12. To learn more about any of these healthcare providers, visit winonahealth.org and click on “Find a Provider.”

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Healthy Connections • Summer 2008

children in various developmental stages. “Through regular well-child physicals, we provide information to promote healthy lifestyles,” explained Joan Krueger, MD, a pediatrician at Winona Clinic. “It’s also an opportunity for parents to ask questions and for us to check for potential physical, behavioral and developmental issues. And, as with all health issues, early detection, evaluation and intervention leads to the best possible outcomes.”

Dr. Krueger noted that some parents skip well-child visits unless immunizations are required, but if the only time children go to the doctor is when they need shots, they may develop a fear of going to the doctor. “Instead, routine, well-child check-ups help children develop a positive relationship with healthcare providers and learn about the importance of healthy habits.” She added, “We can help parents by reinforcing the messages they convey to their children about the importance of being active and eating healthy food. We also provide parents with information about protecting their child’s health and safety, along with tips and ideas to help them deal with common issues that most parents face in raising healthy children.”

Family practice providers—one resource for the whole family According to Donna Kamann, NP, nurse practitioner in Winona Clinic’s Family Practice Department, family

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As with all health issues, early detection,

evaluation and intervention leads to the best possible outcomes. Joan Kruegar, MD Pediatrician

practitioners provide general medical care—everything from preventing to treating disease and illness in people of all ages. Kamann emphasized, “One of the main benefits of routine physicals with a healthcare provider who knows you is that he or she can take your health history and your family’s health history into account when determining which screenings should be done and when. The most important thing to remember is that early detection means early intervention or even prevention. Having routine physicals, rather than waiting until a problem develops, is the best plan for better health.” Added Linda Runstron, NP, Rushford Clinic, “If you ask enough questions regarding lifestyle and family life, you can help people realize their own risk areas. Then you are able to help them focus on setting goals and making changes in those areas.” “It’s so important for all adults to incorporate healthy lifestyle choices in their busy routines,” added Kamann. “And it’s important to pass on those healthy lifestyle habits to children. As primary care providers, our goal is to help people maintain optimal health throughout their life.”

Routine Check-up—Donna Kamann, NP, examines her patient Fred Cundari’s ear. Primary care providers are physicians, nurse practitioners and physician assistants who provide first contact and ongoing care for a person’s healthcare needs.

(continued on next page)

Healthy Connections • Summer 2008

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(continued from page 9)

Internal medicine—focused on the health and well-being of adults Internal medicine physicians provide general care for adults. They are trained in many procedures in several disciplines and serve as experts in complex medical diseases. Internists may receive referrals from family practice, surgery and other fields.

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As a primary care physician, my goal is to help my patients prevent disease before it occurs. Richard Ferris, MD Internal Medicine

“From a physician’s standpoint, it is much easier to keep a healthy person well than to take a sick person and make them well,” said Richard Ferris, MD, an internist at Winona Clinic. The aim of primary care and internal medicine is to maintain health which, Dr. Ferris noted, involves a combination of the following factors: • exercise • a good diet • weight loss if necessary • sleep • moderate to no alcohol use • no smoking • controlling blood pressure • controlling cholesterol • routine screening tests for cancers such as colon, prostate and breast • being aware of and paying attention to family health history for risk factors “As a primary care physician, my goal is to help my patients prevent disease before it occurs,” Dr. Ferris concluded. 10

Healthy Connections • Summer 2008

Primary care for women: obstetrics/gynecology

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lthough family practice physicians can provide well-women exams, some women choose to see a healthcare provider in the Winona Center for Women’s Health for their gynecologic and primary care. The center includes two obstetricians/ gynecologists—Scott Birdsall, MD, and Troy Shelton, MD; two nurse midwives—Suzanne Cooley, CNM, and LeAnn Van den Bosch, CNM; and three nurse practitioners—Holly Fratzke, CNP, Ann F. Olson, CNP, and Tara Suffrins, CNP. These experts focus on care for women from teenagers to seniors. Dr. Birdsall encourages women to consider seeing a nurse practitioner for their annual wellwomen exams: “Tara, Holly and Ann are personable, well-trained and experienced. They not only conduct well-women exams, but also treat minor gynecologic problems—or promptly refer more complex issues to one of the physician specialists,” he said. When starting a family, Dr. Birdsall recommends choosing a healthcare provider who is knowledgeable, compassionate and attentive to your needs. “When women have their baby here in Winona, they have about a 90 percent chance that the person who’s been with them through their prenatal visits will be with them for their delivery,” he added. Dr. Birdsall also recommended that females between the age of 9 and 26 get immunized against cervical cancer. “Gardasil protects against the most common human papilloma viruses (HPV), two of which cause genital warts and two of which cause cancer.” He explained that although Gardasil won’t completely prevent this cancer, it can decrease a woman’s risk by 70 to 80 percent. If you’d like more information about the Gardasil vaccine, call the Center for Women’s Health at 507.457.7674.

Winona Health primary care providers Family Practice

E. Allen Beguin, MD

David Christenson, MD

Donna J. Kamann, CNP

Mary Michener, MD

Christina Nitti Valezquez, NP

Lisa J. Nutter, FNP-C

Internal Medicine

Linda Runstrom, NP

Joy Stevens, PA-C

Robert Wilfahrt, MD

Andrew Edin, MD

Arnold Fenske, MD

Richard Ferris, MD

Traci J. Morken, NP

John Mulrooney, MD

Dennis Nolan, MD

Ann Marie Olsen, CNP

Abdul Oseini, MD

Daniel Parker, MD

M. Suzanne Cooley, CNM

Holly Fratzke, CNP

Women’s Health

Bryan Reed, DO

Carmen Scudiero, MD

Charles Shepard, MD

Scott Birdsall, MD

Pediatric/Adolescent Medicine

Ann F. Olson, CNP

Troy Shelton, MD

Tara Suffrins, CNP

LeAnn Van den Bosch, CNM

Sheila Hadaway, DO

Joan Krueger, MD

Healthy Connections • Summer 2008

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Winona Health provider directory Allergy & Asthma: 474.7830 Terry Donnal, MD

Anesthesiology: 457.7670 Satya S. Gorty, MD Ruth L. Moes, MD

Dermatology: 457.7670 Frank A. Bures, MD

Emergency Medicine: (if an emergency, call 911) Carlos Morales, MD Christopher Schubert, MD Scott Turner, MD Brett Whyte, MD Joel Stevens, PA-C Community Memorial Hospital: 454.3650 855 Mankato Ave. • Winona Parkview Pharmacy: 454.4925 825 Mankato Ave. • Winona Winona Health Physician Clinics • Allergy & Asthma Clinic: 474.7830 420 E. Sarnia • Winona • Eye Care Center: 474.4760 859 Mankato Ave. • Winona

Family Practice: 457.7648

E. Allen Beguin, MD David A. Christenson, MD Mary A. Michener, MD Robert P. Wilfahrt, MD Donna J. Kamann, CNP Christina M. Nitti Velasquez, CNP Lisa J. Nutter, FNP-C Linda Runstrom, NP Joy Stevens, PA-C

General Surgery: 457.7670

• Lewiston Clinic: 507.523.2127 100 Harrison St. • Lewiston

Matthew J. Broghammer, DO J. David Rowekamp, MD Jerry Smith, DO

• Psychiatric & Counseling Services: 454.2606 825 Mankato Ave. • Winona

Internal Medicine: 457.7622

• Rushford Clinic: 507.864.7726 901 Home St. • Rushford • Sports & Orthopaedic Specialists: 474.6600 859 Mankato Ave. • Winona • Urgent Care Clinic: 474.7830 420 E. Sarnia • Winona • Winona Clinic: 507.454.3680 859 Mankato Ave. • Winona Winona Senior Services • Watkins Manor: 494.7400 • Home Care: 457.4468 • Hospice: 457.4468 • Lake Winona Manor, Adith Miller & Roger Metz Manors: 457.4366

Andrew E. Edin, MD Arnold W. Fenske, MD Richard C. Ferris, MD John G. Mulrooney, MD Dennis G. Nolan, MD Abdul M. Oseini, MD Daniel Parker, MD Bryan Reed, DO Carmen Scudiero, MD Charles A. Shepard, MD Traci J. Morken, CNP Ann Marie Olsen, CNP

Ophthalmology/ Optometry: 474.4760

Oral/Maxillofacial Surgery: 457.7700 Gary W. Hayes, DDS

Orthopaedic Surgery/ Sports Medicine: 474.6600 Tim Gabrielsen, MD Richard Romeyn, MD Aaron Schilling, PA-C

Pathology: 457.4361 Carl J. Szczesniak, MD

Pediatric/ Adolescent Medicine: 457.7607 Sheila A. Hadaway, DO Joan M. Krueger, MD

Podiatry: 457.7700

Laurie S. Broghammer, DPM

Psychiatry/Counseling: 454.2606 Kevin V. Quinn, MD Cullen R. Schwemer, MD Angela Gullickson, LICSW

Radiology/Imaging: 457.4320 James Erwin, MD Laurel Littrell, MD

Urgent Care: 474.7830 Terry Donnal, MD Amy Christianson, NP Howard Gorder, PA-C Susan Smith, FNP

Women’s Health Obstetrics/Gynecology: 457.7701 Scott B. Birdsall, MD Troy J. Shelton, MD M. Suzanne Cooley, CNM Holly J. Fratzke, CNP Ann F. Olson, CNP Tara Suffrins, CNP LeAnn Van den Bosch, CNM

Laurel Quinn, MD Douglas M. Orlich, OD Scott M. Pastryk, OD

To see a complete list of Winona Health services, visit: winonahealth.org/services 12

Healthy Connections • Summer 2008

Foundation & Auxiliary News

Patients appreciate Guardian Angels A letter honoring Guardian Angels T he Winona Health Foundation’s Guardian Angel program is one way to recognize a Winona Health staff member who made a difference in your care—whether a physician, nurse, housekeeper or nutrition staff member. When you make a gift to the Foundation in honor of your Guardian Angel(s), they’ll receive a letter notifying them of your gift and a custom-crafted pin to wear on their badge.

Guardian Angel

Here are some recently recognized Winona Health Guardian Angels honorees: • Matthew J. Broghammer, DO, General Surgery • Bev Engel, Housekeeping • Betty Crawford, LPN, Internal Medicine • Richard Ferris, MD, Internal Medicine • Pam Flanagan, LPN, Surgery Department • Kathleen Squires, RN, Lake Winona Manor • Bridget Spencer, LPN, Lake Winona Manor • Rebecca McDonald, LPN, Lake Winona Manor • Craig T. Vessey, Surgical Assistatnt • Darleen Loretz (retired) For more information or to make a donation in honor of your Guardian Angel, visit the Winona Health Foundation online at winonahealth.org/foundation or call 507.474.3328.

Congratulations to Dennis Theede and Home and Community Options Dennis Theede and Home and Community Options, Inc. (HCO), received the Ben & Adith Miller Community Service Tribute for 2007. Theede and HCO were

Dear Friends:

I am writing to say thank you and to make a donation in support of your mission. During the past year we have had a few visits to the Emergency Room at Community Memorial Hospital to receive care for our children. Each time, our children received excellent care from the doctors, nurses and staff. As parents, we felt well supported and knew that our children were receiving high-quality care from professionals who truly cared about them and about us. More recently, I have received ongoing care from Dr. Matthew Broghammer and the Surgery Department at Winona Clinic. I have just completed my postoperative visits, and I cannot imagine a better healthcare experience. Dr. Broghammer exemplifies the very best in our healthcare system. He always took the time to listen to my concerns, to answer all my questions, and to fully explain the care and treatment I would be receiving. I never felt rushed during my appointments. I know clearly that he wanted the best outcome for me, and that he would do his best as a physician and surgeon to help this come about. He was encouraging, supportive, and respectful of me and my needs throughout the process. This was also true of Craig [Vessey] and Pam [Flanagan] and of all the doctors, nurses, and staff that I interacted with at the Clinic and the Hospital. I am deeply grateful to Winona Health for its great care of me and of my family over the past year. —Todd Graff, Winona

recognized for their “fantastic philosophy of life,” according to Hugh Miller, whose parents originally established the Tribute award. Hugh and Vera Miller and RTP Company donated $25,000 to the Ben & Adith Miller Patient Care Fund in Theede’s and HCO’s name. Healthy Connections • Summer 2008

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Fabulous Fifties Follies benefits area dialysis patients

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inona Health Auxiliary’s Fabulous Fifties Follies was a success, thanks to the collective efforts of the community. More than 1,400 individuals attended four performances, March 6-8, raising $31,000 to purchase a new hemodialysis machine, with additional funds toward a second machine for Winona Health’s Dialysis Unit. Cast and crew members, local advertisers, and generous underwriters—including Miller Felpax, HBC and Merchants Bank—helped ensure the show’s success. “We also thank co-chairs Sue Degallier and Nancy Iglesias and their committee members for countless hours; our patrons for their support; and WSU for the use of their theater,” said Edna Loughlin, Winona Health Auxiliary president. “Each audience member, advertiser and performer who lent a hand in this year’s Follies contributed to its success, thus benefiting local healthcare.”

Fabulous fifties Follies—The 1950s-based production helped the Winona Health Auxiliary raise $31,000 to purchase a new dialysis machine for Community Memorial Hospital.

SAVE THE DATES for these upcoming Foundation and Auxiliary events!

Ben & Adith Miller Classic Aug. 11

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he Ben & Adith Miller Classic—which raises funds for the Ben & Adith Miller Patient Care Fund—is scheduled for Monday, August 11. It will feature a full day of activities at Cedar Valley Golf Course—from the18-hole Main Event, to the 9-hole Green Monster Challenge and an early morning 9-hole tournament for youth ages 11 to 18. The Youth Tournament and Green Monster Challenge are sponsored by Merchants Bank. This year’s event also features golf pro Gerry James, a former Mr. California Bodybuilding Champion turned long-drive champion, golf instructor and founder of Center Force Golf System. He is a Class A PGA of America member and instructor at Palencia Golf Club in St. Augustine, Florida. The Golf Classic is the largest fundraiser for the Ben & Adith Miller Patient Care Fund, which helps pay medical expenses for area residents. For additional information on the Golf Classic, contact the Winona Health Foundation at 507.474.3328 or [email protected]. 14

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Auxiliary Birthday Ball Sept. 13

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embers of the Birthday Ball committee are planning for the annual dinner dance and fundraiser, whose theme is Passport to Adventure. The event will be held on Saturday, September 13, 2008, at Signatures Restaurant and Visions Event Center. Both sides of this venue will be open to accommodate the recent growth of this event. Musical entertainment by the Brian Kinney band will take the main dance floor stage at Visions. Other musical artists will provide entertainment throughout the evening. Guests will be encouraged to “travel” through the venue to enjoy the international destinations around each corner. Proceeds from this year’s event will help fund pediatric physical therapy equipment, a replacement dialysis machine and healthcare education scholarships. The Birthday Ball is open to the public, with advanced reservations required. For more information contact Autumn Herber, Winona Health volunteer coordinator, at 507.457.4394 or visit www.BirthdayBall.org.

Winona Health News & Notes Center for Women’s Health and Family Birth Center staff: I just wanted to thank you for everything you’ve done for me throughout my pregnancy—and especially the delivery. I’m sure it’s “just another day at the office” for you, but it’s not every day we get to bring a little miracle into the world. And I can’t put into words how lucky I feel to have found a doctor and nurses as compassionate and skilled as you. Thank you again! Beth and Todd Comero Buffalo City, Wisconsin

Winona Health Foundation: I have been very pleased with the services I’ve received at Winona Health in the Emergency Department, Urgent Care Clinic and Rushford Clinic. Several of my neighbors are now using your services and are very pleased. You take time with people; keep up the good work! Winona Health Foundation donor Houston, MN

Mary E. Funk, FNP-BC, joined the Winona Health medical staff in March. She is board certified as a family nurse practitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Center and sees residents at Lake Winona Manor, St. Anne Mary E. Funk, FNP-BC of Winona and Sauer Memorial Home. Mary received her Masters of Science degree in Nursing at Spalding University in Louisville, KY. Pediatrician Craig H. Anderson, MD, will join the Winona Health medical staff in July, seeing patients at Winona Clinic. Dr. Anderson received his Bachelor of Arts and his Medical Degree from the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis. He completed his pediatric residency at Oregon Health & Science University in Portland, Oregon. Dr. Anderson and his family will move to the area from Cambridge, MN.

Winona Health Winona Area Hospice: Thank you to Sheila Skeels and the entire Hospice staff of working, caring angels! We received your card full of kind words and that means a lot. My mom is smiling down at all of you. What a blessing the hospice services are to Winona. Thank you so much! Patty Mueller Winona, MN

Winona Health: I just want to let you know how very much I appreciate the free valet parking service you are providing. Without this service it would be much more difficult for me, and I’m sure for many other patients, to keep our appointments for clinic and hospital care. The young man who meets me each time I drive up is so polite and friendly—what a pleasure to be greeted by a happy smile. Thank you so much for this needed help. Lucille Thern Messman Winona, MN

Winona’s use of healthcare technology was the topic of a news segment that aired nationally on the PBS NewsHour, Monday, March 24. Local physicians, nurses, administrators and patients were interviewed about how and why Winona healthcare providers have collaborated to use technology to streamline processes, improve quality and safety and to improve the health and well-being of the community. View the story at winonahealth.org/pbs. Hospice Minnesota presented its Public Awareness Award to the Winona Daily News for its series: A Year to Live. This series shared the story of the Ron and Norene Oppriecht family during Norene’s end-oflife journey. The award was established to recognize significant accomplishments in advancing the knowledge of hospice care. The Oppriecht family and Hospice staff including Sheila Skeels, LSW, also were recognized during the award presentation. Healthy Connections • Summer 2008

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Events, classes & support Groups For a complete calendar of events by date and for more information about our services and programs, please visit our website: winonahealth.org. We welcome your questions and comments. Alzheimer’s Support Group 2nd Wednesday of the month, 6-7 p.m. CMH, Parkview Conference Room 507.457.4560 Basic Life Support (BLS/CPR) for Healthcare Providers August 27, 4-9 p.m. CMH, 3rd floor B.A. Miller Auditorium Childbirth Education Class 6-week classes Wednesdays, June 4–July 9 Tuesdays, July 8–August 12 Mondays, August 4–September 8 Wednesdays, September 3–October 8 Thursdays, October 2–November 6 6:30-8:30 p.m. CMH, 3rd floor B.A. Miller Auditorium Registration required: 507.457.4338 Childbirth Education Weekend Class Friday, May 16, 6-8 p.m. and Saturday, May 17, 8 a.m.-3 p.m. CMH, 3rd floor B.A. Miller Auditorium Registration required: 507.457.4338

CMH = Community Memorial Hospital 855 Mankato Ave. • Winona, MN

Healthcare CPR Recertification Classes May 20, 5-8 p.m. June 4, 7:30-10:30 a.m. June 19, 7:30-10:30 a.m. July 1, 5-8 p.m. July 17, 7:30-10:30 a.m. August 5, 7:30-10:30 a.m. August 6, 5-8 p.m. August 21, 7:30-10:30 a.m. August 26, 5-8 p.m. September 18, 7:30-10:30 a.m. September 23, 5-8 p.m. October 16, 7:30-10:30 a.m. October 22, 5-8 p.m. CMH, 3rd floor B.A. Miller Auditorium Registration required: 507.457.4491 Cost for class: $30 Healthcare Directives Informational sessions: May 19, 6:30-7:30 p.m. July 21, 9:30-10:30 a.m. September 15, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Working sessions: May 26, 6:30-7:30 p.m. July 28, 9:30-10:30 a.m. September 22, 6:30-7:30 p.m. CMH, Parkview Conference Room 507.474.3328 Healthy Kids Club—Step into Summer Family Fun Walk Saturday, May 31 9:00 a.m.–noon Winona Bike Path Lake Winona Step into Summer See page 3

PO Box 5600 • 855 Mankato Ave. • Winona, MN 55987 • winonahealth.org

MOM Support Group (Mother’s Own Milk) Wednesdays, 1:30-3:30 p.m. Women’s Health Library 3rd floor of Winona Clinic 507.453.3700 Prostate Cancer Support Group First Monday of the month, 7-8 p.m. CMH, Parkview Conference Room 507.457.4491

Winona Health Foundation & Auxiliary Events Ben & Adith Miller Golf Classic Featuring Golf Pro Gerry James! August 11 Cedar Valley Golf Course Winona, MN 507.474.3328 See page 14 46th Annual Birthday Ball Passport to Adventure September 13 Signatures Restaurant and Visions Event Center Winona, MN 507.457.4394 www.BirthdayBall.org See page 14 For more information about Foundation & Auxiliary events call 507.474.3328.

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