VOLUME | I
TEAMWORK | STORIES | HOPE
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INDEX | VOLUME I Armstrong, Bob 24 Bass, Elaine 25 Bauer, Christa 9 Boley, Lolly 10 Brake, Jed 44 Bruley, Cassie 48 Buckner, Meghan 14 Campbell, Breana 46 Camper, Stephanie 22 Carder, Danielle 50 Carpenter, Lynn 47 Collet, Amanda 48 Cornett, Liz 70 Cunningham, Jessica 45 Dunlap, Amanda 5 Dye, Ashelly 70 Eilerman, Patti 15 Elling, Shelly 43 Eutsler, Jessica 49 Ford, Chris 13 Fought, Nora 65 Heffner, Jeremy 3 Henderson-Laidlaw, Rhonda 42 Horstman, Steve 27 Houts, Kayla 77 Hughes, Chad 19 Hume, Alesia 41 Jameson, Deanna 74 Jamison, Janice 51 Kaufman, Susan 75 Keenan, Roberta 6 Kennedy, Jessica, 52 Kidd, Brenda 69 Kimmel, John 17 King, Krista 18 Lambert, Rachel 76 Lee, Jessica 40 Legge, Ashlie 67 Leonard, Paul 16 Mansfield, Kayla 39
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Martin, Jordan 7 McKirnan, Tiffany 8 Meyer, Madison 28 Miller, Samantha 66 Morris, Dennis 53 Music, Laura 11 Myers, Ron 12 Newsome, Monica 21 Norton, Zach 29 Pauff, David 70 Pohjala, Eric 68 Pohl, Ann 71 Purdy, Kristin 70 Rampulla, Tony 30 Roberts, Marilyn 37 Rockhold, Kyle 20 Rode, Samantha 63 Sammetinger, Ashley 62 Schaub, Judy 54 Skinner, Kaitlynn 38 Slusher, Dawn 31 Snider, Lindsay 55 Spence, Jackie 32 Spencer, Terri 56 Stienecker, Jason 4 Swick, Mike 26 Taucher, Amanda 57 Thiedt, Emilie 23 Thomas, Michelle 59 Thompson, Cory 60 Torres, LaShae 64 Torsell, Marybeth 36 Truman, Jennifer 61 Verhoff, Tina 35 Wagner, Jamie 58 Wilker, Ricki 34 Wilson, Angela 33 Wilson, Jessie 72 Wreede, Katie 73
- JEREMY HEFFNER, MD, FACS When chaos or tragedy strikes, you hope everyone will join forces and work together to face a common enemy. I can honestly say this is exactly what I have witnessed. The team at Lima Memorial - from the nurses and respiratory therapists to the radiology technologists, housekeepers and everyone else - works tirelessly to give our patients the best possible care in the face of this terrible pandemic. I have an overwhelming sense of pride for our community and Lima Memorial. 3
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The community and our hospital have been of the utmost responsiveness in this global pandemic. Around every corner and behind any fathomable roadblock have been members of our hospital - nurses, respiratory therapists, housekeepers, physical and occupational therapists, radiology technologists, cardiac and ultrasound technologists, maintenance workers, IT and community support outreach - to provide the ability to overcome any hardship for the treatment teams. We have all come together to help defeat this disease. We stand ready and willing to fight for every patient who comes through our doors such that they can walk right back out following their recovery. A huge thank you from the bottom of my heart to everyone involved, including the community, doing their part to keep physically distanced such that we can keep the virus where it belongs...away from our amazing Lima and surrounding communities.
- JASON STIENECKER,DO
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- AMANDA DUNLAP, RN
I’ve said so many times that everyone has gone above and beyond to get the COVID unit set up so fast for our patients. There is nothing currently that is needed because everything is provided. I feel really appreciated and really appreciate what the hospital has done to keep us safe. I’m an ICU nurse, and I’m used to working with that team. Now, I am working with people from all different units, and we’ve become a family now. I didn’t think twice about volunteering. How can you say no to helping the most vulnerable people right now and the people who need the most help. To me, it’s not about being a hero; it’s about responding to my calling as a nurse to provide compassion to patients, help them heal and be present with them during this scary time when their family can’t be.
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- ROBERTA KEENAN, OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST, OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY MANAGER This is a whole new ballgame for me in my career as an occupational therapist. I’m not used to having to put on PPE to this extent when caring for patients. But, as with everything, there is always a way to make it work and make it work well. Everyone has the common goal and that is for the best possible outcome for our patients. Working very closely with the rest of the COVID care team has been just so amazing. It’s so rewarding to help patients progress from being so very sick to their next level of recovery. Introducing therapy brings patients hope. They begin to see what they are capable of doing. They know they have work ahead of them, but there is a new sense of motivation.
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There is a lot of teamwork in action in the COVID Unit – working differently together for the end goal of getting the patients out of here and on their healthy way. The patients know they are safe and our team is there to help them. They seem relieved knowing they are in the best place to have the best outcome and we are doing everything we can to make sure they get back home.
- JORDAN MARTIN, RESPIRATORY THERAPIST
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It is an honor to be a part of the healthcare team at Lima Memorial Health System that is doing amazing things to save the lives of members of our community that have become severely ill with COVID-19. The hospital administration has gone above and beyond to protect the staff caring for these critically ill patients, allowing us to provide exceptional patient care. I couldn’t ask for a better place to work during this pandemic.
- TIFFANY MCKIRNAN, PA-C
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- CHRISTA BAUER, DIRECTOR OF CARE COORDINATION Being the Director of Care Coordination at LMHS, I could not be more proud of my team and the project groups that I have been a part of over the last few months. I have watched so many individuals rise to the occasion and overcome so many obstacles to see that our patients and their families have been taken care of. I have witnessed so many strong people willingly accept tasks and responsibilities that I am sure they knew nothing about, but knew that they had to step up and take it on. I will forever be grateful for the new appreciation I have for many of my coworkers and my team here at LMHS. “I can do things you cannot, you can do things I cannot; together we can do great things.” – Mother Theresa
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I think as a community and a nation we have come together to support each other in this uncertain time. I am proud of how we are all handling this. It has been scary and intimidating but very rewarding. I’m proud to be a part of this wonderful profession of nursing. We are all in this together! - LOLLY BOLEY, RN, CCRN
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- LAURA MUSIC, LPN
While I have had a healthy fear of all that is going on, it has meant a great deal to me to still be available for my patients. I love that I have still been here to answer questions, help with problems and make sure they are still receiving great care. I will always fight for my patients. The outpouring of love from my patients during this difficult time has kept me going. 11
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I have witnessed healthcare workers working outside their comfort zone. There has always been great teamwork here at LMHS, but this pandemic has brought it to a whole new level.
- RON MYERS, RRT
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- CHRIS FORD, RN, BSN, QUALITY IMPROVEMENT & RESOURCE MANAGER It couldn’t be a more fitting time to be celebrating the 200th anniversary of Florence Nightingale’s birth. Over the last few months, I have witnessed LMHS, local health departments and other healthcare facilities come together to truly live the legacy of Florence Nightingale. Her innovative leadership, resilience in the face of adversity and ability to put her own needs aside for her patients and fellow nurses are evident each day as we face these unprecedented challenges. The teamwork I have witnessed shows that we really are “All in This Together.” 13
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Being in health care during this pandemic has meant listening to the concerns and uncertainty of each individual, comforting and helping him / her feel a little more secure in this unsure time. It means being unsure of what each day holds for us on the frontlines - Will we have enough PPE? Will we ourselves get the virus? What happens if we take it home to our families? It means mentally preparing yourself for unpredicted surges, outbreaks and deaths. It has meant never having your mind stop because you are thinking about the what ifs and changes that could be made to slow down the spread, and if you had one less patient than the day before, is that one more healthy person at home? But most importantly, it has meant that with whatever we face every day, we choose to get up and keep going, to keep fighting the virus and keep fighting for our patients.
- MEGHAN BUCKNER, LPN
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- PATTI EILERMAN, HR BUSINESS PARTNER I felt strongly from the beginning of the pandemic to be at work and assist in anyway needed. I wanted to help associates and be that resource that they could depend on when there were questions, concerns and even fear. It has been rewarding to work as part of a team that is focused on the associates of Lima Memorial and their safety and well-being, along with the safety and well-being of those in our community. I have experienced many positives the last few months, including the determination and relentlessness of the individuals who work in our healthcare system and how quickly we were able to get things in order to care for not only COVID-19 patients but also the associates of Lima Memorial. I witnessed the unselfishness of our associates stepping up and offering to help even in a pandemic; it was natural for so many, and it makes me proud to work for this organization.
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- PAUL LEONARD, MD During the COVID-19 pandemic, I have been impressed with Lima Memorial’s dedication to working together to care for our patients while keeping our staff as safe as possible. I feel appreciative to be on the front lines along with our nurses, techs, PAs and NPs. After going through this, I am even more confident that we have an excellent team to work beside.
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During the pandemic, being in health care has meant to me duty, responsibility and a sense of pride. It was my duty and responsibility as a healthcare provider to care for the sick and those in need during this pandemic. I am proud to have been fortunate enough to be part of a great team that was selfless, hardworking and caring beyond the normal call of our profession as nurses. I could not be more proud of the team I was a part of.
- JOHN KIMMEL RN, BSN, COVID UNIT MANAGER & AOS
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During this time as healthcare workers, we all are continuing to provide the best care in a safe and positive environment. It truly takes the whole hospital community to be able to take care of our patients. #weareinthistogether
- KRISTA KING, RN
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Reflecting on the past few months has been very eye opening. We are living through history; each generation has their moment. Is this ours? Is this our time to shine? Will we rise? Will we fall? I often look to Abraham Lincoln for inspiration. I found this quote fitting: “The dogmas of the quiet past are inadequate to the stormy present. The occasion is piled high with difficulty and we must rise with the occasion. As our case is new, we must think anew and act anew. We must disenthrall ourselves, and then we shall save our country.” - Abraham Lincoln Fourteen weeks ago, I saw news out of Asia that something big was coming. I silently started to prepare, started to plan. That is what designers do. We think about solutions. We ask questions. How would this be different? Are we prepared? Are we safe? As I spoke to my best friend in Australia and saw what they were dealing with as fires swept through their country and now they had to face this virus, I was inspired by how he had faith and how he decided to be the light in all the darkness. I knew I wanted to do the same. When COVID-19 reached our doorsteps, we were ready. We were prepared. Our Lima Memorial family worked together; we stared the giant straight in the eyes, and we were ready to fight. But, what would be my role? I am not patient care. I can’t swab people. I am not a nurse, but I find myself in health care. Then I thought about my conversation with my friend, and I knew I must be a light in the darkness. I decided to dig in and do research. I knew I needed to use my creative abilities to educate, inform and make our community smile. We were going into the battle, and the war was going to be long and hard. But we all stepped up together, and that has been the most amazing thing to watch. It is the fighting spirit we talk so much about. The spirit to rise from the ashes and help our fellow man. The spirit to see teachers and students giving sanitation wipes from their classrooms. The countless seamstresses sewing masks frantically to protect others. The restaurants and business sending food and supplies to help us stay strong. The spirit of community at its finest. The fighting spirit of all of our associates, rising each day not knowing what the battle will look like but willing to #maskup and care for others and put their lives and the lives of their families at risk. It has been so inspiring to see us all come together and work as one to defeat COVID-19 and protect each other. That spirit, that great care kept moving us forward. I leave with this parting message as we continue to face this monster. “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” - Maya Angelou
- CHAD HUGHES, GRAPHIC DESIGNER & PRODUCTION SPECIALIST 19
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When they first asked for nurses for the COVID Unit, I didn’t even have to pause to think about. I knew I wanted to volunteer. I enjoy taking care of sick patients. That’s why I went into critical care. I know I can help them. And, I knew the patients on the COVID Unit would be the sickest patients we would probably ever see, maybe even in our lifetime. COVID-19 is the biggest part of history that we will likely ever see, and I just wanted to be able to provide as much care to our patients as I possibly can. This experience has forever changed my life and most especially how I will provide care for patients in the future. At Lima Memorial, it is not just one of us or a few of us, it is all of us.
- KYLE ROCKHOLD, RN
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- MONICA NEWSOME, RN I am very proud of the team and the way we’ve come together. We’ve always been a family; we just became a stronger family through all of this. It’s pretty special. The hospital stood up to the challenge of the crisis, and we did it the Lima Memorial way. We followed all the rules, but we didn’t hesitate to do what we needed to do and do it fast. 21
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These have been challenging times but also very gratifying times. We are all working cohesively for the same purpose doing what is best for the patient. We’ve always had a sense of teamwork at Lima Memorial, but the last couple of months have really made that just rise to the top. My role the last couple of months has been to be a runner for the team on the COVID Unit. For me, I have been so proud to be the extra hands everyone has needed when they need it most. The best part is, I know it has been helping our patients when they need it most. As a medical professional, this is what I am here for.
- STEPHANIE CAMPER, LPN
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- EMILIE THIEDT, RN
As soon as I knew the hospital was asking for volunteers for the COVID Unit, there wasn’t a doubt in my mind that I wanted to volunteer. I just knew it was the right thing to do. I felt there was a calling, and I wanted to answer.
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The most positive outcome of the past eight weeks is the stronger bond I’ve formed with my family. My wife, youngest daughter and I, FaceTime my parents regularly, so much so they think something is wrong with us. We also FaceTime my oldest daughter regularly, so much so that she’s annoyed with us. And I’m spending more time with my wife (yikes!) and my youngest daughter who lives at home, because they can’t get away from me. So even though they may all be annoyed with me, I’m really enjoying the extra time connecting with them. As you can see from my picture, the one member of my family who loves this social distancing is my dog, Layla! She thinks this is the way life should be all the time! When we leave town, she goes into the kennel, aka the Spa (she hates the Spa)!
- BOB ARMSTRONG, VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
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- ELAINE BASS, EMERGENCY CENTER SECRETARY
Staying at home has not been a problem for me. I have been sewing since I was a small child (that’s a long time), and 4-H was a big part of my childhood. My contribution during this crisis has been to make as many cloth masks for as many people as I can. I really can’t give a number, but it would be more than 400 masks made. Stay safe, and take care of yourself and each other. 25
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- MIKE SWICK, PRESIDENT & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
As I reflect back over the last 6-8 weeks with the COVID-19 challenges that presented to all of us, I feel overwhelmed. Overwhelmed from both a personal as well as a professional perspective. As it relates to the personal side, I would say it has reminded me how important your immediate family is to your well-being. From nightly calls with all three of my children to pop-up meetings with my parents in their driveway, it reminds me how important not just hearing their voices but also seeing their faces is, whether it’s through technology or a mask. I have watched families enjoy being outside and playing with each other. I’ve met neighbors (with social distancing) that I did not know lived in my neighborhood. The positive in this is everyone is now connecting again in a non-technology way. From a professional perspective, I have been overwhelmed with the caring and teamwork that everyone in the health system has demonstrated. I have always been proud of the team we have here at LMHS, but this has taken my appreciation to a new level. Our staff has shown tremendous compassion; it reminds us all why we chose health care as our profession. We do make a difference! The hourly changes that we have faced show me that as a team we can meet challenges head on and help the community we are privileged to serve. Thank you for allowing me to serve alongside each and every one of you! 26
I have been honored to be a part of caring for our patients on the COVID unit over the last couple of months. The biggest legacy is not what you take with you but what you leave behind. I feel like what I am doing now is the legacy I want to leave behind. The teamwork of our Lima Memorial team has been phenomenal. I am so proud to be a part of this hospital, a part of an establishment that when this first happened and things were happening very fast, our hospital responded just as fast and put tremendous plans into action. I have an overwhelming sense of pride for my organization. This is where I work!
- STEVE HORSTMAN, LPN
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Caring for our patients and community during this time has been unlike anything we’ve seen before. The adaptability of our healthcare team has truly been amazing. I’ve sat with dying patients, loving them and holding their hand as their family couldn’t be with them. I’ve celebrated with patients as they recovered and got to go home. To me, the word hero isn’t fitting. It’s about compassion — taking time to sit with patients and talk to them, reminding them that we care, that we support them, and they are not alone.
- MADISON MEYER, RN
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- ZACH NORTON, PA-C
I have taken great pride in our community’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Together, the teamwork across all levels of patient care has been nothing short of amazing to see. It is a great honor to be a part of an incredible team at Lima Memorial in the fight against this invisible enemy.
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For me, health care has always been my calling. No one saw this coming or could have predicted the COVID crisis. Knowing that we are working together and helping patients during this very difficult time has reassured me why I am here! Seeing how patients respond, especially the critical patients who really need the help, that is powerful stuff! We are blessed to work for an organization dedicated to patient and staff safety and also work in a state that has been on the forefront of leading by example. It all makes sense now! We truly are in this together.
– TONY RAMPULLA, PHYSICAL THERAPIST, PHYSICAL THERAPY / WELLNESS CENTER MANAGER
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– DAWN SLUSHER, PCT / MT
Reflecting on the past few months, I have embraced family, friends, my job and not taking a second for granted. As we all know, life is TOO short... Faith, Hope, Love. 31
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I have never been more proud to say I work in health care. COVID-19 came to us fast and furious, and to see how we all swiftly moved into action is truly inspiring. We were able to open the COVID unit in record speed, implementing numerous policies and procedures. We have selflessly put the needs and safety of our patients before our own‌ because that is what we do! Truly, healthcare heroes work here, and I am honored to say I am a part of Lima Memorial Health System!!
- JACKIE SPENCE, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF NURSING
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- ANGELA WILSON, COMMUNICATIONS & PUBLIC SAFETY DISPATCHER In the last few months during this pandemic, I’ve witnessed people coming together on a positive note helping each other out. From people in the community giving away food and care packages to people anonymously donating food to essential workers. There have even been Facebook posts where people are offering help to anyone who may be in need. The outpouring of love this community has shown has been more than amazing! When the community heard about the need for masks, the telephone calls started to pour in with people wanting to make and donate masks. From the tokens of appreciation to the “thank you for all that you do,” it shows that not only are we in this together as a community, but we are in this together as a nation. I am proud to be a part of this amazing team. Sometimes we forget that we all need each other, and this has been a reminder to us all!
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- RICKI WILKER, RN I know there have been many people who have struggled to maintain social distancing and not be able to go about their normal daily routines. I, myself, have also struggled with this. Although there have been a lot of changes and disappointments, I have loved seeing the community step up and look for ways to support others. I have enjoyed watching the parade of cars for birthday celebrations, supporting small businesses, donating masks, window visits and sending care packages in the mail. It reminds us to be thankful for what we have and to enjoy even the little things in life.
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What a privilege it is to work in health care and to support the services and associates that are so very valuable to the health of the members of our community, especially during a time in our history when a worldwide pandemic is affecting every human being on the planet. I am humbled and grateful to work for such a great organization, to work with such an incredible HR team and group of coworkers on our LMHS Leadership Team and to have an Executive Team that supports us in our respective departments. Regardless of where I have worked, I have always felt that serving others in my role as a leader is my vocation in life. During this COVID-19 pandemic, I have witnessed so many individuals responding with generosity toward others, demonstrating quiet strength, displaying diligence in their work and exhibiting charity toward those who are dependent on us. I am proud to work in health care and honored to serve side-by-side with others who are also responding with kindness and caring in their vocation as a healthcare worker.
- TINA VERHOFF, DIRECTOR OF HUMAN RESOURCES
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These past few months have been the most challenging, yet the most rewarding of my professional life. When I joined the Lima Memorial Health System family in June of 2019, I never in a million years imagined I’d be living through a pandemic! I witnessed first-hand the hospital pull together and begin to attack COVID-19 head on. Our determination and dedication never wavered. Additionally, I’ve watched as the community rallied behind our healthcare heroes to provide food and much needed supplies. The outpouring of support continues to amaze me. I’m proud to be a part of the Lima Memorial Health System family.
- MARYBETH TORSELL, DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR
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- MARILYN E. ROBERTS, CNP The COVID-19 pandemic rapidly disrupted everyone’s everyday life. For myself, it meant quickly adjusting my role from primary care provider to a more acute function. In agreeing to work at the Community Evaluation Center, I had to find balance in my commitment to help others with an understandable commitment to protect my family and myself. As scary as it may be, the best part of this situation has been watching the flexibility and adaptation of families and communities as they come together to support one another. To my patients: Thank you for understanding and allowing me the flexibility needed to help others during this crisis. To the community: Thank you for your ongoing and never-ending support in our time of need. To my family: You are my super heroes. Thank you for making sure our home continues to function. I love each one of you.
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Honestly, when I chose this career to pursue, I never imagined that I would become a new nurse during a worldwide pandemic. But, I can proudly say that I am honored to work for Lima Memorial during this trying time. I have never seen a community like ours come together and support one another like we have during these past few months. Though this has been a trying experience in almost every way mentally, physically and emotionally, I would do it all over again.
- KAITLYNN SKINNER, RN
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- KAYLA MANSFIELD, PHYSICAL THERAPIST
This crisis has been a humbling experience. As a physical therapist, I have had the opportunity to serve a vulnerable patient population and witness the transformation as they progress from an immobile state to near independence with mobility. It has also been a blessing to serve as a friendly face in a time of such isolation.
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I have always loved my job and working at LMHS, but I have never been more proud than during these unprecedented times. We have continued to do what we do best, care for our community. Our entire LMHS staff stepped up and acted as a pillar of strength for each other and our community. When I think about the different roles and responsibilities we have taken on, it is incredible. We are all doing more here at the hospital and at home, and everyone should take pride in their efforts. I am honored to work at LMHS and be surrounded by all of the amazing people. Stay safe everyone!
- JESSICA LEE, M.A., CCC-SLP, SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGIST
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- ALESIA HUME, HR GENERALIST
To me, being in health care during the COVID-19 pandemic means assisting in the background in any way I can so our frontline staff can perform the best care possible for our patients. Seeing everyone group together for the same cause is amazing to witness and a blessing to be a part of. I’m proud and honored to work for Lima Memorial Health System during this time. 41
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- RHONDA HENDERSON-LAIDLAW, LMP MEDICAL SOCIAL WORKER For me, it was an honor to reach out to our patients during this time of uncertainty. There were many patients who were anxious and had questions in general. Others patients had needs that arose because of closures and access issues that weren’t thought about until conversations began to happen. I was happy to maneuver around and put a logistics plan in place that kept them safe yet still met their needs. Having bi-weekly contact with them was a way for them to still have a regular conversation with someone when no one else was there. I know it met their needs, but it did my heart good also!
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Over the past few months, I have witnessed several positives during such a sad time in the Lima community. Local businesses have supported healthcare heroes, and healthcare heroes have given back to businesses. There has been a collaboration between both Lima hospitals and other county agencies in order to protect our patients and community members. I am proud to say that I live in Allen County in the state of Ohio! We have been very blessed to have great leaders during the coronavirus pandemic! #INTHISTOGETHERLIMA
- SHELLY ELLING, SENIOR PHYSICIAN RECRUITER
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Not since September 11, 2001, have I felt the heaviness of my friends, family, community and nation as I currently do. As a result of that fateful and difficult day, I eventually deployed twice with a Combat Support Hospital for the U.S. Army to a foreign land, and it provoked me to consider the following: I am limited in my activities; I am isolated from family; I am a part of a band of brothers and sisters; I must look at risks factors I never previously imagined; I must take measures to protect myself and others around me. These thoughts and considerations look, feel and seem quite a bit like what all of society have found themselves to be confronted with during this global pandemic. Yet, ironically I learned some very important lessons through those times of frustration, lack, challenge and isolation that prepared me to better spiritually care for my current group of patients, coworkers and patients’ families. I have gradually learned the definition of FAITH - “Confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” I have faith in this time of crisis because I can look into the mask-covered faces of my patients and colleagues and still see a desire for better days in their eyes... as if it’s an actual window to their soul. I have faith, despite the uncertainty of these obstacles, because over the last 20 years, I’ve witnessed amazing and gifted men and women in the healthcare field with less technology and resources manage to overcome much more than anyone ever thought possible with less time available. I’m very grateful that Lima Memorial Health System has allowed me to connect, grow and serve alongside even more amazing and gifted men and women. Finally, I have faith in the one who has blessed me with an opportunity to live out a lifelong motto / prayer: “Oh God, please prepare me to always fight for life & make death wait while bringing faith, hope and love on each occasion regardless of the frustrating outcomes or challenging circumstances.”
- JED BRAKE, PASTORAL SERVICES SUPERVISOR
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- JESSICA CUNNINGHAM, RN, BSN, CLINICAL MANAGER To be a nurse in a time of such vulnerability and uncertainty has truly opened my eyes to our profession. To see so many working tirelessly and come together over the last three months has been nothing short of amazing. I am truly in awe and honored to be part of a community that acted swiftly and appropriately to the unknown of this pandemic. For me, becoming a nurse wasn’t about being a hero; it was about helping those in need. 45
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The past few months have brought us a lot of scary times, along with times of uncertainty. During these moments, I have took solace in the support of my family, friends and community. I have been overwhelmed with how people have volunteered their time and resources to make thousands of masks to keep us protected. Others have sent supportive pictures and messages for encouragement. Some have donated food for nourishment. But most of all, the Thank Yous have been abundant and much appreciated. It’s wonderful to know that in times of crisis, times of need, our community really has our backs!
- BREANA CAMPBELL, RN, BSN
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- LYNN CARPENTER, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR I am so incredibly proud of our great health system and our community for how we responded so swiftly to this crisis. The spirit of collaboration has never been so strong. We stand united to ensure the very best for our community, our patients and their families. I am so grateful for our team members who so selflessly put their own health and safety at risk to care for those impacted by COVID-19. At the same time, I have a deep appreciation for each and every associate who have made their own sacrifices and stepped up in profound ways for the greater good. Our Marketing/Foundation/Provider Recruitment team made it our mission to support our LMHS family through timely communication, sharing important education and rallying support. We feel a sense of responsibility to be at the forefront of educating community members regarding COVID-19 and helping them stay safe. It has been beyond humbling to witness the community coming together to support our local health system – from making cloth masks to donating PPE, supplies and food to providing financial support and offering kind words. This pandemic reminds us all that “I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the waters to create many ripples.” – Mother Teresa
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It has been an honor and privilege to be able to continue to care for my patients and community throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. I have been able to go to work each day, and despite the uncertainty that surrounds every aspect of life right now, I know that I am able to make a difference and contribute to my patients being able to improve and regain function that they have lost. It has been exciting to see the progress that each patient makes each week from being bed bound to being able to sit upright or walk. The smiles and happiness that each person projects from seeing his/her own progress is heartwarming to be able to witness. It has also been a neat experience to be able to see each discipline within the healthcare realm come together and work more closely to achieve the common goal of getting our patients back to their homes and families.
- CASSIE BRULEY, PHYSICAL THERAPIST
Working in the COVID Unit has been an amazing experience. Everyone is truly part of a team, and even though we all have a different job, our goal is the same -- to provide the patient with the best care possible during these unprecedented times. I am honored to be able to do what I love to help those in need and know that I am making a difference in our patients’ quality of life.
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- AMANDA COLLET, OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST
- JESSICA EUTSLER, ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT During this pandemic, I have found myself overwhelmed by the gratitude, kindness and thoughtfulness of others. Associates have offered to perform jobs and work in areas outside of their norm; individuals have donated their time and resources to hand sew masks for others; local businesses are donating meals and PPE for our staff; teachers are working longer days to be sure that they are available to their students in a way that they have never had to before and communities are coming together to support high school seniors who are missing out on so many events that they have looked forward to for so many years. COVID-19 has brought people together in ways that I’ve never seen before, and I hope that this new sense of support and kindness lasts far longer than this virus ever will.
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- DANIELLE CARDER, LPN, CTR WOW!!! Would be an understatement for what I have seen in response to COVID-19. I have watched our Oncology / Hematology Department move back to the Medical Park in less than one week (we had so many laughs doing this), considering we had just completed a move from the Medical Park to the main hospital in November. I have watched two amazing physicians (Dr. Jeremy Heffner and Dr. Jason Stienecker) step up to the plate and ROCK our response as a hospital to this crazy pandemic, along with all those frontline people who have stepped up to the plate. It has been absolutely incredible the amount of support that has been shown with new regulations, guidelines and our ever-changing new “normal.� Our multidisciplinary cancer teams have been AMAZING adapting to our new way of cancer conferences. I have watched EVERYONE adapt and embrace the changes without complaints, and this is why I love Lima Memorial. Kudos to everyone!!! It has been and will be one journey that will be talked about for years to come. I am forever grateful to all those who have supported and continue to support us along the way.
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As an Environmental Services associate, it is an honor to be able to be a part of such a great and caring team that is here to serve our community on a daily basis. It is our job as EVS associates to provide the highest level of cleanliness possible to keep our coworkers and community safe during this unprecedented time.
- JANICE JAMISON, HOUSEKEEPING TECHNICIAN
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In this time of uncertainty, it has meant so much to me to still provide care and attention to both our sick and routine patients. As unexpected as this was, this pandemic has truly displayed how strong our community is and the resilience in which we will bounce back. Being in health care has always been something I have been proud of, and it has been moving to see how we really are in this together. - JESSICA KENNEDY, MEDICAL OFFICE ASSISTANT
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- DENNIS MORRIS, DPM VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF MEDICAL OFFICER As we enter into our recovery phase, I would like to express my appreciation to the entire LMHS family for all of their help and cooperation during a very difficult time in our lives, both professionally and personally. Our Medical Staff, under guidance from the COVID Task Force, made necessary adjustments to their schedules, and many volunteered to help out in areas outside of their specialties. Dr. Heffner and Dr. Stienecker are to especially be commended for their leadership with the COVID Unit. It is also especially gratifying to see all of our associates who have cross trained, redeployed or stepped up in numerous other ways to make sure LMHS could continue to serve our community and provide the quality health care that they expect. While no one knows what lies ahead with the COVID pandemic, we do know that we are just beginning what seems will be a longer journey with more trials and frustrations. I know the dedication and compassion from our LMHS family will sustain us, and it certainly has not gone unnoticed. I am truly appreciative.
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Coming to work each day is a privilege. To see my patients three times each week is a familiarity and a bond that is created. It is a comfort to be able to see them stay healthy and to educate myself as well as the patients through this uncertain time of the COVID-19 pandemic. It has been an honor to see those that I work with step up to the plate.
- JUDY SCHAUB, RN
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- LINDSAY SNIDER, MEDICAL DENIAL & APPEALS COORDINATOR
You would think that along with the emphasis on social distancing you would see division and separation. Instead, I have seen people reconnecting. I have seen an increased awareness of the needs of others, including our coworkers, families and neighbors. I have seen people rising to the challenge, finding many different ways to stay connected as a team and a community while still being as safe as possible. 55
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During this life-changing event, I have learned that Great Care begins at home and reaches out into our community. Our Community of Care does not just exist within the physical walls of our health system. It exists in the hearts of our LMHS family. We give it our all, so you can, too. â?¤ - TERRI SPENCER, AUXILIARY GIFT SHOP MANAGER
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- AMANDA TAUCHER, HOUSEKEEPING TECHNICIAN
As a housekeeper, our job is extremely important. I am proud of the work that I do in order to keep my coworkers, the patients and the community safe. I take pride in making sure I am providing a clean and safe environment for everyone. At the end of the day, I feel like I do make a difference. I know my team and community are counting on me to do my job and keep everyone safe. We are all in this together. 57
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- JAMIE WAGNER, RN I have been blessed to be a nurse for many years. It’s an honor to be caring for our patients, and I have wonderful coworkers to do it with. Some days can be more challenging, but the rewards are greater!
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Although we do not have direct patient care contact, our role was just as important as the frontline healthcare workers. It did not take long to see, if we wanted to get through this pandemic, we all were in this together. Once the order came that there would be no visitation, our jobs became much more important than usual. We, in communications, became the bridge that brought friends, family and patients together. Since visitation was not an option, the only way for friends and family members to check on their loved ones was by phone. Regardless, if we were transferring the calls directly to the patient rooms or to the nurses’ stations, it was a moment of satisfaction. Just hearing the release of unsettlement in the caller’s voice when I said “okay I am connecting you,” was all the thanks I needed to hear! Making those kind of connections, regardless if it was a patient to family or friend, nurse to doctor, doctor to doctor, medical staff to ancillary departments, (regardless of the combination) the satisfaction was the same, and I was glad to help and do my part. It is this small contribution I can make that allowed me to come in and without hesitation say, ‘Lima Memorial Hospital, this is Michelle.’
MICHELLE THOMAS, COMMUNICATIONS & PUBLIC SAFETY DISPATCHER
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To me, working in health care during COVID-19 meant a paycheck. A lot of people I know are now not working, laid off, fired or just simply were told to close. I went from a two income household to a one income household. Unemployment would be great, but my girlfriend is considered an independent contractor and has yet to receive any. We are going on two months of her not having an income. However, the positive of this is that we have learned what is really important. Being in health care meant that we could still pay the mortgage on our first house. It meant that we could still buy groceries. It meant that we could buy the flowers for the front flower beds. What working in health care meant to me was stability. Right now, stability is very hard to find, and I am thankful to have it.
- CORY THOMPSON, GRAPHIC DESIGNER & WEBMASTER
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- JENNIFER TRUMAN, RN During this time of isolation, I cannot begin to imagine what it would mean to have my mother or father hospitalized and NOT be able to be by their side. Along with the nursing care I provide every day, I do my best to keep my patients connected to family. The use of video calls has been that link. I accidentally stumbled across one of the iPads in my patient’s room one day. From there I was hooked because it gave the family a chance to laugh and cry together — real visible emotions connected this husband and wife, calmed their nerves and renewed a sense of hope. The best reward a nurse can get is the satisfaction of caring for the patient AND their families alike.
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I committed to my community fourteen years ago when I graduated from Rhodes State College. Most people are not aware of what Respiratory Therapists do, but this pandemic has put us in the spotlight. I was trained by a wonderful college, and when this pandemic hit, I knew I was ready to step up for the challenge. Being in the COVID Unit, I’ve had to wear so many hats. I’m running ventilators, helping deliver trays, cleaning rooms and just listening to our patients. Our patients are without their families, and this has been hard to see. We truly have an amazing team here at Lima Memorial Hospital, and I’ve worked next to many nurses and physicians during these times of uncertainty, but one thing I’ve learned is that we can pull through anything with a team like we have here. I feel privileged to be a part of the team and have enjoyed showing my patients the love and compassion they deserve.
- ASHLEY SAMMETINGER, RRT
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- SAMANTHA RODE, BUYER “No job’s too big. No pup’s too small.” Over the past few months COVID-19 is a big job, but together, we are not too small! Even through all of the uncertainty and unknown during this COVID atmosphere, everyone has been understanding and patient. It has been pretty amazing to witness the teamwork and generosity from fellow employees and people among the community. I look for forward to getting back to our new normal, so here we go! (My kids have had to rotate cartoons with staying home, and they got on a Paw Patrol kick )
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Many people make a conscious decision to pursue health care as a career, but for me, I believe health care chose me, and for that, I am thankful. It’s hard to believe my time at Lima Memorial was just beginning when faced with the COVID-19 pandemic, but I am humbled to be part of such an incredible team who worked tirelessly to respond quickly and effectively during this unprecedented time. In the face of fear and uncertainty, we worked together to keep our community safe and provide care for those who needed it. Now more than ever, I am proud to put on my LMHS badge each day, knowing I was one small contributor in our response to COVID-19. It has been the most rewarding experience of my life to witness the countless acts of selflessness, dedication and determination from our LMHS family and the giving spirit of our community. As we look to the future, I feel even more inspired to do my part and give my all for our patients, their families and our community. To work in health care is much more than a job, it is a calling. A calling to serve in whatever capacity is needed, and I am honored and humbled to call myself a healthcare worker and, more importantly, a LMHS associate. My commitment, dedication and pride for this organization run deeper than I ever could have imagined.
- LASHAE TORRES, MARKETING & COMMUNICATION COORDINATOR
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- NORA FOUGHT, MARKETING AND FOUNDATION DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR Reflecting on the past few months, I have a tremendous amount of pride when I think about Lima Memorial - my home away from home - and our response to this unprecedented event. The speed and efficiency at which everyone moved to prepare our hospital to care for our community is nothing short of amazing. I often reminisce about the early weeks as the virus was approaching our community and immediately think about the tremendous teamwork displayed. I have witnessed so many colleagues selflessly stepping into unique roles or adding brand new tasks to their day that I’m sure they never envisioned ever doing. But, no surprise, they did so without hesitation or question because that is what our Lima Memorial family does. The tremendous support we have received from our community has been beyond humbling. I chose health care to have a positive impact on people who need it most and to help where help is needed most. I chose health care because I knew I would be surrounded by people who feel the same. I could not be any more proud of Lima Memorial and my Lima Memorial family than I am right now. This I know - the day will come, the sun will rise, and we’ll be fine.
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- SAMANTHA MILLER, PCT
We are our patients’ support system now more than ever as they are missing their families at home. As a caregiver, I love when I am able to put a smile on my patients’ faces, make them laugh or hold their hand so they know they are not alone during this scary time.
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There are so many positives from this experience (although, it may not seem like it). One positive being, WE LIVED THROUGH HISTORY… How cool! Another positive is LIFE slowed down. During this time, I have had extra time to spend with my close family that we have never had before because, well… LIFE IS BUSY! This time has taught me that it’s okay to SLOW down. I could list out a lot of great things throughout this time, but I’ll end with the GROWTH I’ve seen from LMHS associates. I’ve seen associates go above and BEYOND to help out where they were needed. I’ve seen departments come together and build connections that would have never been built if it wasn’t for this. It’s all about perspective.
- ASHLIE LEGGE, HR GENERALIST ONBOARDING & EDUCATION
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Working in health care during the COVID-19 pandemic has certainly been a challenge to say the least. We are living in unprecedented times in all areas of running an organization. There is definitely a mixture of feelings‌from being very frustrated about not knowing what to do next to feeling that you are making a positive difference. Like all disasters, it is great to see everyone come together to work towards dealing with the situation‌peers, communities, and yes, even competitors. This is important for me to see and feel as it will allow us to endure as we will be in this for a long time.
- ERIC POHJALA, VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
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- BRENDA KIDD, HR SPECIALIST As each of our own families is strengthened in times of need by each other, so is our LMHS work family. Assisting LMHS’s associates during this pandemic with their own medical leave needs has brought new challenges. But with the support from other healthcare professionals within the health system, I have seen strength and unity that is unparalleled to none other; those challenges become no more than mere detours. I am extremely proud to be a part of the LMHS work family!
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In the past few months, I have noticed a nation come together and help each other. It feels great to know that so many people want to help our essential workers. From the bottom of my heart, I am so thankful for everyone who has stepped up to make masks and to feed us.
- ASHELLY DYE, MEDICAL OFFICE ASSISTANT This has been an incredible experience, both mentally and physically. Mentally, due to bringing up testing from scratch in a very short time, and physically due to the long stressful hours getting everything to work correctly. It is awesome being right in the middle of the solution; to really feel like what you are doing is making a difference. This whole experience will be a great story to tell my grandkids!
– DAVID PAUFF, POINT OF CARE COORDINATOR
A positive that I have encountered is the healthcare system coming together to support each other. We all have an important job -- from the people behind the scenes to the people who work the front lines. When all of these different people work together, we can face anything that may be thrown into our path.
- LIZ CORNETT, PHARMACY / ANTI-COAGULATION CLINIC SECRETARY
Reflecting over the past few months, I have seen Associates step out of their comfort zone and help in ways that they never planned. We have had associates deliver food, supplies, take temperatures and man the mask station. It’s been great to see everyone work together to make these times better. You normally walk into the hospital seeing the friendly faces of our volunteers, who we miss terribly, but during these times, you see the friendly faces of our own associates, and I think that’s what great care looks like.
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- KRISTIN PURDY, HR GENERALIST
- ANN POHL, VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF NURSING OFFICER One positive of the last few months is the pooling of all our skills and talents to fight this virus. I have been so impressed by the swiftness and depth of profound transformation that our health system has experienced -- from the conversion of an entire unit to house our COVID patients to the numerous protocols enacted to preserve our resources and slow the spread of the virus. Additionally, this COVID pandemic has shifted our thinking and provided for a way to reconnect healthcare workers with the reason they went into their chosen profession. Healthcare workers have traditionally viewed their work as a calling, and they tend to enter their field with a high level of altruism. I have seen so many of our healthcare providers respond with an astounding display of courage, selflessness and grace, despite the risk of personal harm, while the whole health system has rallied to support them. 71
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Although COVID-19 has caused a great deal of worry about the future and the unknown, it has also allowed me to have a much deeper appreciation for those around me. Like so many other families, this time has been quite challenging with home schooling and stay at home orders, but at the same time, it has forced us to slow down and appreciate the little things in life. I know our next family gathering will feel quite different, I can’t wait to hug my loved ones! It has also been heartwarming to witness the kind acts within our LMHS family and our community as a whole, as so many have come together and volunteered their time to help others!
- JESSIE WILSON, PHYSICIAN RECRUITER
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– KATIE WREEDE, RN During this time of crisis and uncertainty, it has meant going above and beyond to communicate care and compassion in a now “faceless” healthcare system. We used to be able to provide gentle reassurance with a smile, but now our patients are deprived of seeing our faces causing our nurse-patient relationship to feel impersonal and disconnected. I think this is an invitation to level up and demonstrate to our community that we can rise above these challenges. This is an opportunity to prove to the world how truly amazing we are. We show who we are behind the mask by a thousand different gestures − our tone of voice, eye contact, a pat on the back, holding our patient’s hand, spending some extra time at the bedside, etc. We are meant to make a difference. We are called to give a little extra. 73
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- DEANNA JAMESON, RN
As a nurse in the Wound Center, caring for our patients and community during this time of crisis and uncertainty has meant coming together in unity with my coworkers. We continue to provide great care while adapting and responding to the health and safety needs of our patients and the community we serve and love. 74
There have been many positives that I have experienced with this pandemic: • Realization that we need to slow down and do the important things. • Being reminded that life is short- God is in control, and we are blessed beyond measure with all that we do have. • APPs can now sign home health orders! Yippee! • I love telehealth, and it has opened up an additional way to communicate and care for patients. • I can cook, and it often tastes better than drive thru. • We have a caring and truly dedicated administrative & medical staff that can come together and move mountains to care for patients. • My garage got painted. LOL
- SUSAN KAUFMAN, DO, MEDICAL STAFF PRESIDENT
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Of all the years I have been in nursing, I can honestly say this has been the most difficult time I have experienced emotionally. I feel so bad that our patients have been here alone. But, I know it is my responsibility to be there for them – not only as their nurse, but as their friend and surrogate family members - to hold their hand, tell them it will be okay. You have to have teamwork to get through what we have been through. We’ve always been close. This crisis has brought us all even closer together than we were.
- RACHEL LAMBERT, RN
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- KAYLA HOUTS, RN When I became a nurse I knew I wanted to help the sickest of the sick. I knew I could make a difference. As fearful as I was, knowing I had my children at home I had to think about, I just knew the hospital was going to keep us safe, and helping these very sick patients is what I wanted to do. It’s humbling knowing we are the patient’s family right now when their family cannot be physically here. I went into nursing because I wanted to care for the sick. Now I am their caregiver, their family, their friend, their everything, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything. There’s no greater honor than to be all of that to my patients.
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