Westfield Magazine February 2026 by Towne Post Network, Inc.

FINDING ANSWERS & COMPASSIONATE CARE

A STEADY PLACE FOR GROWING FAMILIES

At Kid City USA, caring for children has always been about more than providing a place to go each day. It’s about creating a safe, nurturing, and dependable environment where children can learn, grow, and feel at home—and where families can feel confident in their choice of care.

Today, families everywhere are feeling the effects of an industry under strain. Childcare providers across the country have faced years of funding shortages, rising costs, and increasing demands. More recently, fraud uncovered within some government-funded childcare programs has placed additional pressure on the system, slowing support and making quality care harder to sustain.

For families, this can create uncertainty. Questions about availability. Concerns about stability.

Worries about what comes next. At Kid City USA, we want to be clear: your child’s care is our priority—regardless of the challenges facing the industry.

While long-term solutions are still being worked out at higher levels, our focus remains where it belongs—on the children in our classrooms and the families who trust us every day. We continue to invest in our teachers, maintain high operational standards, and operate with transparency and accountability across every location.

Children thrive on consistency. Families depend on reliability. And childcare is not something that can pause while systems catch up.

That’s why we stand firm in our commitment to provide stable, high-quality care—today and into the future. We believe childcare is essential infrastructure for families and communities alike. It supports working parents, strengthens local economies, and lays the foundation for lifelong learning.

No matter what challenges the industry faces, Kid City USA is here.

Here to support families. Here to care for children. Here to lead with integrity and stability.

A life saver

$49 can save your life.

A simple heart scan could be the key to a longer, healthier life. At Riverview Health, we make it easy to access this life-saving screening with no referral required.

A heart scan is performed using a CT scanner to determine the amount of hardened plaque inside your coronary arteries. This screening can reveal hidden risks, giving you the power to make informed decisions about your health and providing peace of mind.

STEPHANIE DUNCAN

ASHLEY DYKTON

MELISSA GIBSON

NANCY HAMMERSTROM

CHRISTY HEITGER-EWING

ROBERT JONES

JULI KNUTSON

KELSEY MUSICK

AMY PAYNE

NATALIE PLATT

ABBIE WILLANS

BALTZ brandon@townepost.com (317) 514-9522 TOWNE POST NETWORK,

PROUD MEMBER

FOUNDER,

TOM BRITT tom@townepost.com (317) 496-3599

JEANNE BRITT jeanne@townepost.com (317) 810-0011

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER ERIN TURK CREATIVE DIRECTORS VAL AUSTIN TONI EADS

BROWN

TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC. 8800 North Street, Suite 117 Fishers, IN 46038 Phone/Text: (317) 810-0011

INFORMATION, VISIT FRANCHISING.TOWNEPOST.COM

WA NT MO R E W

WESTFIELD WINTER MARKET

JANUARY 1 7 –MARCH 28

SATURDAYS | 9 A.M.–12 P.M.

West Fork Whiskey Co.

10 E. 191st Street

presented by V3

Step out of the cold and into a warm, indoor market with vendors selling fresh produce, baked goods, honey, jam, handmade artisan goods, and more!

For details, visit westﬁeldin.gov/wintermarket.

MELT THE TRAIL

FEBRUARY 21

SATURDAY | 10:30 A.M.

Grand Junction Brewing Co.

1189 E. 181st Street

presented by The Farmers Bank

Help us “Melt the Trail” for our 12th annual winter 5k run/walk! Join us as we kick o the event at the Grand Junction Brewing Co. Taproom and make our way through Westﬁeld on the Monon Trail over the bridge at State Road 32.

For details, visit westﬁeldin.gov/meltthetrail.

EMPATHY IMPACT

WESTFIELD WOMEN SHARE STORIES OF STRENGTH & KINDNESS IN NEW BOOK

Writer / Juli Knutson

Empathy. Weakness or superpower?

It was just that ambiguity that helped inspire “Empathy Impact: The Wild Effects of Kindness in Action,” a book that united 15 women with vastly different perspectives to explore the concept together.

Michelle Merritt and Danyele Easterhaus, both of Westfield, became engaged in the project through a chance connection Merritt made at a conference. She met the founder and CEO of SULIT Press, who told her about her concept of a collection of true

stories that would show empathy not as a weakness, but rather as a strength that shapes leadership, community and personal resilience.

“That framing stopped me in my tracks,” Merritt says. “Empathy as a strength — something actionable and powerful, not soft or shrinking.”

As a chief strategy officer who guides senior leaders in their career journeys, her spark for a story was ignited, drawing from her grandfathers’ influence and professional experiences.

WEAVING A TAPESTRY OF STORIES TOGETHER

As the project took shape, Merritt immediately thought of Easterhaus, whose guidance and support as a nonprofit and community leader she deeply admired. Merritt suggested she contribute a chapter, and what followed was an experience both women found unexpectedly meaningful.

A sense of trust and purpose quickly grew among the group, built on respect for each woman’s voice. Authors’ stories range from deeply personal experiences to reflections related to business or leadership.

“What emerged was a beautiful tapestry,” Easterhaus says. “Each author brought her own expertise and lived experience, but we all listened to one another. You could still feel everyone’s ‘why’ when it came together.”

TWO DYNAMIC STORIES EMERGE

Recently retired, Easterhaus was already immersed in her next phase of life. She had founded a consulting business and started two books. But the empathy topic instantly resonated with her. A former nonprofit executive, mom of four, longtime foster parent and community leader, she had a lot of experience to draw from. She soon realized

Michelle Merritt

Danyele Easterhaus

the story that needed to be told.

“My story had to be about adopting my daughter, and learning how to truly meet people where they are,” she says.

She walked through that journey alongside her daughter’s 14-year-old birth mother, who was treated with disdain everywhere she went.

“People deserve dignity,” Easterhaus writes, “especially kids in grown-up storms.”

She became her champion and friend, gaining new clarity about the injustice of assumptions people make every day.

Merritt’s chapter looks back to her childhood, which was shaped by two special grandfathers who modeled empathy in unexpected ways. One demonstrated a strategic research approach to life’s transactions to ensure fairness, and the other showed her steadfast optimism and relationship-building in the face of

challenges.

That influence shows up both personally and professionally. She writes, “It’s not enough to see different perspectives. Real empathy means working to create more equitable outcomes.”

SHARING EMPATHY IN ACTION

“Empathy Impact” shares a deeper take on kindness in real, relatable stories. Each author reflects on a challenge she has overcome, focusing on hard lessons learned in the trenches of life. Empathy is the common thread — how it shapes experiences and ripples out to families, businesses and communities.

“The world needs a reminder of what true empathy looks like in everyday life,” Easterhaus says. Merritt agrees and adds, “Empathy is a superpower, not a weakness. Being present is better than being perfect.”

Both Merritt and Easterhaus see empathy

and collaboration at work in the Westfield community. Easterhaus describes a growing network of nonprofit and business leaders, educators, city partners, volunteers, parents and community advocates who help the city thrive.

“I’ve seen a consistent effort to bring people together to improve daily life — seeing, hearing and supporting people who need it most,” she says.

In a culture that equates polished perfection with success, this poignant book offers something quietly radical: proof that empathy, lived out in the messiness of life, can be a lasting catalyst for change.

The proceeds from “Empathy Impact: The Wild Effects of Kindness in Action” go to an organization that provides services and resources to victims of sexual assault.

“Empathy Impact: The Wild Effects of Kindness in Action” can be found on Amazon.

Around the Table

“Around the Table” is your passport to Hamilton County’s vibrant and diverse culinary scene — now with exclusive perks to enhance your dining adventure. Discover personal stories from local restaurant owners who share the inspiration behind their culinary ventures and the impact they’ve made on bringing people together through food.

This growing series celebrates the essence of local cuisine throughout Hamilton County, Indiana’s communities. From family-owned establishments that have become neighborhood staples to innovative chefs putting fresh spins on classic dishes, each restaurant brings its own flavor to our collective table. Whether you’re craving

authentic international cuisine, farm-to-fork freshness, craft cocktails or comfort food that feels like home, you’ll find passionate people behind every plate.

New this year, claim your free Around the Table passport then check in at participating

restaurants and earn the exclusive “Around the Table 2026” cookbook, featuring signature recipes from our restaurant partners that you can’t find anywhere else. Transform your regular dining out into a delicious quest to discover hidden gems and revisit longtime favorites while collecting the stories — and recipes — that make each place special.

Claim your passport, browse hotel deals and start your culinary journey at VisitHamiltonCounty.com/Table.

INDIANA VEIN AND LYMPHATIC CLINIC OPENS NEW LOCATION

Writer & Photographer / Abbie Willans

Newly rebranded Indiana Vein and Lymphatic, formerly known as Indiana Vein Specialists, has moved to a new location in Carmel and is open to help patients with venous and lymphatic diseases. The clinic specializes in treating chronic venous insufficiency, a common condition in which blood pools in the veins. This can cause blood clots, chronic swelling, as well as varicose and spider veins.

“Venous insufficiency has caught on more in the national dialogue over the past

few months because it’s such a common condition. Most people have either had a relative deal with it or dealt with it personally,” says Dr. Jeffery Schoonover.

Chronic venous and/or lymphatic conditions, such as lymphedema, can have many causes. Some of those include heredity, prior trauma, occupation, multiple pregnancies, cancer or a history of blood clots. People have an increased risk of developing these conditions if they have jobs that require a lot of standing, such as teachers, factory workers, nurses and pharmacists.

“We’re utilizing a multidisciplinary care concept, meaning we have our accredited ultrasound lab, we have physical therapists on site, and we can do the minimally invasive vein procedures all under one roof. It’s actually a very cost-effective way to manage these conditions,” he says.

Dr. Schoonover started his practice in 2011, originally in Fishers, and later opened another location in Carmel. In 2025, he decided to move to one centralized location near several other medical facilities to make travel more convenient for patients. Originally from Michigan, Dr. Schoonover and his wife moved to Hamilton County to be closer to their family.

“It’s been a wonderful place to raise a family. I can’t say enough about being here and the privilege it is to take care of patients — not only locally, but those who come to see us from a lot of outlying smaller towns,” he says.

Dr. Schoonover has served on the American Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine and the American Vein and Lymphatic Society, as well as given lectures nationally on venous and lymphatic insufficiency.

“What really attracted me to this specialty

was the technological advances in minimally invasive venous care and the lymphatic aspects, compared to the way things were done 30 years ago,” he says. “There was a significant improvement. To be able to help folks who previously required hospitalization has just been tremendous.

“I’ve seen patients who’ve dealt with chronic leg wounds, like nonhealing venous ulcers, over the years. Traditionally, that meant patients had to go to a wound care facility for multiple visits over a lengthy period of time. We found that patients who received vein ablation treatment had significantly improved healing time.”

In addition to vein ablation procedures and lymphatic physical therapy, the team at Indiana Vein and Lymphatic employs other methods to help patients manage their symptoms, including custom compression stockings and education regarding diet and exercise.

“We’re big fans of utilizing compression stockings here, and properly fitted ones can make a significant difference in managing this conservatively,” Dr. Schoonover says. “We still recommend regular exercise and walking programs. People say 10,000 steps, but the medical literature suggests that walking even 5,000 to 7,500 steps a day can still have a positive health impact.”

Some may be surprised that walking helps combat venous and lymphatic conditions, since prolonged standing can worsen them. But the key is in the movement of the legs.

“When you walk and activate that calf muscle pump, that augments venous return and helps blood get back to your heart,” Dr. Schoonover adds. “If you’re standing or sitting for prolonged periods of time, you’re not activating that calf muscle pump, and that’s where the challenges come for some folks on long car or plane trips. They can get swelling issues, sometimes even develop a

RESEARCH STU DY SEEKING

People living with Atrial Fibrillation or Atrial Flutter

Purdue University, College of Pharmacy is seeking people living with atrial fibrillation/flutter who are planning to have or recently have had a electric cardioversion or ablation to treat atrial fibrillation or flutter. In order to qualify you must be taking anticoagulation (a blood thinner such as coumadin, Eliquis, Xarelto).

If you qualify for the study:

blood clot on a plane, and that’s related to not moving consistently and not activating that muscle.”

For many, venous and lymphatic insufficiency goes far beyond cosmetics. It’s not just about unsightly swelling or discoloration, it’s about quality of life and the ability to move without pain.

While these are unfortunately common conditions, Dr. Schoonover is passionate about venous and lymphatic medicine and educating people so they don’t suffer needlessly. Together with his team of nurse practitioners and certified lymphatic physical therapists, he hopes to continue improving the lives of his patients.

For more information, visit www.indyveins. com or call 317-348-3020. Indiana Vein and Lymphatic is located at 11590 N. Meridian St., Suite 270 in Carmel.

• You will be asked to take a medicine called Zofran (ondansetron) or a placebo (sugar pill) twice a day for 4 weeks

• You will be asked to wear a Ziopatch on your chest which monitors your heart beats for 4 weeks and keep a log of any symptoms that you have related to the medicine and atrial fibrillation.

• You will complete 5 visits lasting about 30 minutes (1 visit at the start of the study and then a visit each week). The visits can be completed at your home or in the clinical reearch center located on the IU Indianapolis campus

• You will receive up to $350 after completing all study visits.

If you are interested in participating, please call or text 317-847-2094 or email: hwroblew@iu.edu

WE HELP YOUR BRAIN HELP YOU.

Writer / Nancy Hammerstrom

A year after Virginia Hutton was diagnosed with cancer, she was overwhelmed not only with her illness, but her father’s declining health, and her cousin’s battle with pancreatic cancer.

She was struggling with concentration and procrastinated when she needed to make important decisions.

“I not only had a cancer diagnosis, but also had a history of depression,” Hutton says. “I felt stuck in an overwhelming medical situation and didn’t know where to turn. In the process, several childhood traumas resurfaced, and I began reevaluating my whole life. It was a heavy emotional load.”

Hutton’s friend told her about a noninvasive, drug-free neurotechnology she used called Cereset®, which has more than 60 franchise

Brenda Hanning, owner

locations in the U.S. The closest center to Hutton, who lives out of state, is in Carmel, owned by Brenda Hanning.

“It’s a non-invasive wellness technology,” Hanning says of Cereset®. “It reflects the brain’s activity back to itself through engineered sound.”

EEG sensors send the information to the computer, which chooses from 55,000 engineered tones.

“It will choose the tones that are going to resonate with the imbalances so the brain can essentially start correcting itself,” she says.

Hanning discovered Cereset® more than 15 years ago to help a family member who struggled with insomnia and emotional issues.

“Cereset® helped them learn coping skills in terms of stopping rumination and changing their thought process away from worst-case scenarios,” she says. “I was really excited by the end results achieved with the technology, so I invested in it, trained and became a provider, and I now have more than 13 years of experience helping brains relax and reset with Cereset®.”

Acute insomnia, or bouts of sleep loss that last a few days at a time, affects about onethird of adults, according to the American Medical Association, with one in 10 suffering from chronic insomnia, which lasts for more than three nights a week for three or four months.

“I have clients who have years of not being able to sleep more than a few hours a night that now are sleeping eight hours a night on most nights,” Hanning says. “Sleep is a big driver of why a lot of clients come into Cereset®, and it can take sometimes more than five sessions if someone has had long-term insomnia or sleep issues. Usually within three to four months, they’re finally experiencing restorative sleep. Their sleep is regulated better than it was before, and then over the course of a year, the results become stronger.

“IT’S A NON-INVASIVE WELLNESS TECHNOLOGY. IT REFLECTS THE BRAIN’S ACTIVITY BACK TO ITSELF THROUGH ENGINEERED SOUND.”

—BRENDA HANNING

“When life gets out of control, we can get stuck in a cycle of stress and all the negative symptoms that come with it, like brain fog, a quick temper, impatience, low energy and mood, anxiety, depression, lack of motivation, irritability or inability to make decisions, and sleep disruptions,” she adds. “The list can be long, so Cereset® empowers you to have higher resilience to stress, a calmer mood, clear thinking and higher levels of motivation. It’s customized to each client’s unique brain and situation.”

Hutton drove three hours to meet with Hanning and try Cereset® for the first time. Afterward, she drove a short distance to her hotel. She began to scroll through content on her phone and spotted a joke.

“Normally I wouldn’t have laughed, and I laughed out loud within an hour of my first session,” she says. “I couldn’t remember the last time I laughed, and to be able to laugh at something that was actually quite silly surprised me. Also, I slept really well that night, and the next morning had more presence of mind, and some hope for a change.”

“It was also valuable to have a supportive person walking me through this process,” she adds. “Brenda is just so attentive and caring. It’s really a beautiful combination of having this amazing technology and a caring facilitator. That speaks volumes.”

Hutton continued sessions every two or three weeks after her initial meeting. During the past year, she has returned to the center about every six to eight weeks. Her mood and focus have drastically improved, and she can better focus on her family’s needs.

“I told my father I had cancer six months

before he died, and I was with him the night he died,” she says. “At my father’s funeral, I needed to be fully present, but I was going through an extremely difficult time emotionally. Cereset® was a support that enabled me to thrive, to enjoy being present, to have mental clarity and be the best version of myself during some of the most difficult times in my life.”

“To go from not being able to process at all to being able to think again, process what’s coming up and then make healthy decisions — the best decisions you can with the information you have — that, for me, has been a game changer,” Hutton adds. “It’s kind of like taking your brain through a car wash. It just feels clear, clean and better functioning.”

Cereset® offers an introductory session to all clients for $99.

“It gives the client an opportunity to have a baseline assessment of their stress center and emotional center, to see if they are stuck in a stress state, to hear more about Cereset® and to decide if it’s something they’d like to do,” Hanning says.

A five-session wellness package is recommended for all clients interested in using the technology.

For more information, including studies and testimonials, visit cereset.com. Interested individuals may also call or text 317-9227588 or email brenda@carmel.cereset.com.

CONNECT

FIFTY YEARS & COUNTING

RIVERVIEW HEALTH FOUNDATION CELEBRATES LEGACY OF CARE

Writer / Kelsey Musick

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Riverview Health Foundation — a milestone that reflects five decades of meaningful impact and the advancement of patient care at Riverview Health, an independent, community-based system serving Hamilton County through hospitals, emergency and urgent care facilities, and primary care locations.

“I’m honored to help celebrate the wonderful work that has been accomplished by so many individuals over these past 50 years,” says Megan Wiles, executive director of the Riverview Health Foundation.

“This work wouldn’t be possible without the numerous men and women who have served on the foundation’s board of directors and helped guide the work and success of the foundation.”

Despite the tremendous growth and change Noblesville and Hamilton County have experienced since 1976, the commitment to raising funds in support of Riverview Health has remained strong, evolving to meet the needs of an expanding community.

“As the county hospital for Hamilton County, Riverview Health doesn’t receive

any tax dollars to support our annual operations but is charged with caring for all, regardless of their ability to pay for their care,” Wiles says. “The foundation looks for ways to help fill in some of the gaps that are created, especially during challenging times, to provide appropriate support for the patients and staff of Riverview Health.”

According to Wiles, the foundation has donated more than $18.8M for various programs and projects at Riverview Health since its inception. Additionally, there have only been five other executive directors of the foundation during that time.

“[It] shows the dedication these individuals have for the mission of raising money for our local county hospital to help meet the needs of Riverview Health’s patients and staff,” Wiles says.

In the early 2000s, the Riverview Health Foundation focused its fundraising efforts on the Women’s Pavilion, which opened at Riverview Health in 2003.

Courtney Cox Cole Infusion Center

Mindrebo Family Acute Rehabilitation Unit

“As the desire to raise funds for women and children grew, the Women of Vision Luncheon and the Women of Vision Giving Club were created,” Wiles says. “Over the years, the luncheon and donations to the club have helped grow the Women’s Endowment Fund and have awarded more than $800,000 in grants to departments serving women and children at Riverview Health.”

The Women of Vision Giving Club is a group of women dedicated to making a difference. The club’s philanthropic focus is addressing the growing health care needs of women and girls at Riverview Health.

“In Hamilton County, the number of women leaders dedicated to serving our community is one of the things that I think helps to make our county work, collaborate and thrive,” Wiles says. “I’m happy that we can highlight and celebrate some of those women at our event.”

Last year, one of the speakers was Dr. Bridgett Hurry, who lived in Uganda for several years, opened a clinic and trained others to care for residents after she moved back to the U.S.

“Each year at the luncheon, we highlight the grants that have been awarded that year to support departments at Riverview Health serving women and children,” Wiles says. “These grants range from support for the maternity department to help purchase car seats for families who might not have one, to funding for the Women’s Boutique to provide wigs, bras and prosthetic devices to women going through cancer who may not be able to afford them.”

Speakers this year include Leslie Craig Henderzhas, a partner at Church Church Hittle + Antrim (CCHA Law), who has been engaged in numerous organizations in Hamilton County and is a trailblazer in the legal community. The other speaker is Shayla Webb, owner of The Aroma Room,

also an attorney who experienced a lifechanging medical situation.

“Both ladies will share their stories and experiences and inspire the attendees, no matter the obstacles we might face, to have the courage and strength to turn those into opportunities,” Wiles adds.

The 2026 Women of Vision Luncheon will take place Thursday, March 12 at 10:30 a.m. at the Ritz Charles in Carmel, located at 12156 N. Meridian St. For tickets, search “Riverview Health 2026 Women of Vision Luncheon” online.

Book your event today at (317) 877-3612 or events@harbourtrees.com

Women of Vision Luncheon

PRECISION MILESTONE

CENTRAL INDIANA ORTHOPEDICS IS ADVANCING JOINT REPLACEMENT CARE

Writer / Natalie Platt

In October 2025, Central Indiana Orthopedics announced a significant milestone. Dr. Brent M. Damer, a boardcertified and fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon with the practice, completed 1,000 robotic-assisted hip and knee replacement surgeries using Mako SmartRobotics technology. CIO was the first orthopedic group in Central Indiana to adopt the technology in 2016, and Dr. Damer has been using it consistently for nearly a decade.

“Mako technology has changed how we approach joint replacement,” Dr. Damer says. “It allows us to plan each procedure around a patient’s specific anatomy, preserve healthy bone and tissue, and be more precise during surgery. Ultimately, that helps patients recover more efficiently.”

Damer specializes in hip and knee arthritis, total hip replacement, total and partial knee replacement, and complex revision procedures. He joined Central Indiana

Orthopedics in 2009 after completing extensive training that took him from the Midwest to the East Coast and back again. A native of northern Indiana, Dr. Damer earned his doctorate in osteopathic medicine at Des Moines University in Des Moines, Iowa. After medical school, he completed an internship in traditional osteopathy and a residency in orthopedic surgery at Mercy St. Vincent Medical Center in Toledo, Ohio. Dr. Damer completed additional fellowship training in adult

Photographer / Stephanie Duncan

reconstruction surgery at New England Baptist Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts.

“I knew I wanted to come back to Indiana,” Dr. Damer says. “CIO offered the ability to practice at a high level while still being part of a community-based group.”

CIO’s use of robotic-assisted technology centers on detailed three-dimensional imaging that maps each patient’s joint prior to surgery. During the procedure, haptic feedback technology helps guide the surgeon within the preoperative plan, while still relying on surgical judgment and experience. According to CIO, many patients are able to return home the same day as their procedure, a shift that has shortened recovery timelines for appropriate candidates.

While technology plays an important role in modern joint replacement, Damer emphasizes that patient understanding remains central to successful outcomes.

“If patients do not understand their diagnosis or the reasoning behind a treatment plan, that plan is unlikely to succeed,” Dr. Damer says. “I spend a lot of time educating patients so they know what the problem is, what their options are, and what recovery realistically looks like.”

Dr. Damer sees patients primarily in the Muncie and Marion areas, with additional

to iliotibial band irritation.

operates walk-in orthopedic clinics in Anderson, Fishers, Zionsville, Muncie, and Marion, allowing patients with recent injuries to be evaluated without an appointment and directed to the appropriate specialist if further care is needed.

“That access matters,” Dr. Damer says. “It gives patients a clear entry point into care without delays.”

To help prevent injury, he keeps his advice practical. Staying active, maintaining strength around the joints, monitoring body weight, and following a balanced diet all play a role in long-term mobility. While supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate may help relieve joint pain for some patients, there is no proven way to prevent or reverse osteoarthritis.

“Movement is important,” he says. “Strong muscles help support joints. Once arthritis is present, higher-impact activities like running and jumping may need to be reduced, but staying active in lower-impact ways is still beneficial.”

For runners and walkers, proper footwear and regular shoe replacement are critical. Dr. Damer notes that gait differences between treadmill and outdoor running can affect comfort, particularly in patients prone

“The most important thing is wearing shoes that are fitted to your foot and replacing them regularly,” he says. “That alone can make a noticeable difference.”

After more than 16 years in practice and thousands of procedures, Dr. Damer says the most rewarding part of his work remains consistent.

“Helping people get back to living their lives without constant pain is what makes this job meaningful,” he says.

Outside the clinic, Damer and his wife have six children. Although he lives north of Anderson, much of the family’s time is spent throughout Hamilton County, where they attend local events and community activities.

To learn more about Dr. Brent M. Damer and the orthopedic services offered by Central Indiana Orthopedics, visit ciocenter.com. CIO has offices in Fishers, Anderson, Muncie, Marion, and Zionsville, with walk-in orthopedic clinics available in Anderson, Fishers, Zionsville, Muncie, and Marion for recent injuries that do not require an appointment. Additional information about robotic-assisted hip and knee replacement is available at ciocenter. com/mako.

CIO joint replacement specialists in Anderson, Fishers and Zionsville. CIO also

LEAVING A LEGACY

LONGTIME COMMUNITY HEALTH NETWORK PRESIDENT & CEO BRYAN MILLS RETIRES

Writer / Nancy Hammerstrom

A quote made popular by filmmaker and actor Woody Allen states, “If you want to make God laugh, tell Him about your plans.”

Bryan Mills, who recently retired from Community Health Network as president and CEO, once thought he would work as an accountant for a small business.

A lifetime of mentors disagreed with him, seeing potential far beyond his expectations.

Mills, who served with Community Health for 40 years, spent his teen years baling hay for his friends’ fathers in the summer. One of them, Jack Chapman, told him, “Bryan, you better go to work, you better go to college, you ain’t no farmer,” recalls Mills

with a laugh. Chapman was joking, but a steady stream of motivators guided Mills to where he is today, including his driver’s education teacher at Noblesville High School, Jim Belden, who recruited Mills to play football. Belden refused to take “no” for an answer.

“He saw something in me that I didn’t see myself, and so therefore I played ball and had two good years with him,” Mills says. He also played basketball and later coached the sport to youth.

While studying accounting at Ball State University, Mills searched for an internship with a small firm. On the day he waited for his three interviews in the college’s career

services department, a hiring manager announced to those waiting that someone did not show for an interview, leaving an open spot.

“I didn’t know who he was or even what it was about, but I thought, ‘OK, what the heck,’ so I sat down and talked to this guy, and he was a managing partner at what’s now Ernst & Young,” Mills says.

Mills accepted an offer to work with the company, where he was eventually employed full time until his manager accepted a job as CFO for Community Health Network. In 1984, there was only one hospital in the network, Community Hospital East. Mills’ manager invited him to be part of the leadership team to open what is now Community Hospital North in Castleton one year later, managing the finances. In 1992, Mills served as CEO of Visionary Enterprises Inc. (VEI), a for-profit affiliate of Community Health Network.

In 2009, after Bill Corley announced his retirement as CEO of Community Health Network, the board of directors approached Mills and asked why he had not applied as Corley’s successor. Mills was not interested, explaining that he did not think he was qualified. Members of the board convinced him otherwise. Two weeks into his new role, Mills panicked, overwhelmed and ready to quit, so he called his friend and mentor on the board, John “Jack” Heiney. They met, and Heiney gave Mills a pep talk.

“I’m whining about all the reasons why I don’t know what I’m doing, and Heiney gave me the best advice that I’ve ever received professionally,” Mills recalls. “He looked at me and said, ‘I thought you coached all those kids on basketball teams.’

I said, ‘Yeah, that’s true, what’s that got to do with this conversation?’ He said, ‘Bryan, go coach your team.’ I said, ‘What?’ and he said, ‘Go coach your team.’

“To me, my role has been the chief cultural leader,” Mills continues. “My role was to create the culture of Community and then help us work as a team for the best in terms of patients, and that’s what I’ve been doing the last 20 years. When it’s framed like that, then you think, ‘OK, this is my purpose, and I can do this.’”

Since Mills’ start at Community Health Network, the system has grown to include five acute-care hospitals, with a sixth expected in Westfield by late 2026 or early 2027, a cardiovascular hospital, a recovery center, three rehabilitation hospitals and soon freestanding behavioral health hospitals. Under his leadership, the network expanded to include numerous ambulatory practices, surgery centers, virtual care services and advanced cancer care through a partnership

with MD Anderson Cancer Center.

In addition, Forbes has designated Community Health a top employer in Indiana annually since 2022 in “America’s Best-in-State Employers.”

In 2016, Mills created the Alliance for a Healthier Indiana after America’s Health Rankings Report detailed Indiana’s poor outcomes, including the state’s smoking rate, opioid abuse, infant mortality, obesity and public health funding. The Alliance has focused on advocacy and education to substantially reduce tobacco use, the leading cause of preventable death in Indiana.

Mills is eager to step into his next role in retirement.

“My goal is to be a much better granddad and be available for carpooling or seeing events or going to games,” Mills says. He and his wife, Cathie, have four sons and four grandchildren, with a fifth on the way.

STAYING ON TRACK IN 2026

TURNING RESOLUTIONS INTO REAL, LASTING HEALTH

Every January, gyms fill up, grocery carts get greener, and motivation runs high. By February, however, many New Year’s resolutions quietly fade away. In our area, where active lifestyles are part of the community culture, the challenge isn’t starting healthy habits — it’s sustaining them.

As 2026 unfolds, the key to long-term health and fitness isn’t perfection but consistency, flexibility and community support.

One of the biggest reasons resolutions fail is that they’re often too ambitious. “Work out every day” or “cut out all sugar” sounds great on Jan. 1, but real life has a way of getting in the way. Instead of all-or-nothing goals, health experts recommend focusing on realistic, measurable habits. Three workouts a week, daily walks around the neighborhood, or cooking at home one extra night a week are all achievable steps that add up over time.

Fitness doesn’t have to mean spending hours in the gym. The area offers countless ways to stay active while enjoying the outdoors. Walking trails, neighborhood paths and nearby parks make movement accessible year-round. Even short, 20-minute walks during lunch breaks or after dinner can improve cardiovascular health, boost mood and help maintain weight. For many residents, staying active with friends or family increases accountability and makes exercise something to look forward to instead of a chore.

Another reason resolutions stall is burnout. Doing the same workout or strict routine week after week can drain motivation. Variety keeps both the body and mind engaged. Mixing strength training with yoga, swimming, cycling or group fitness classes helps prevent boredom and reduces the risk of injury. Many local fitness studios and community centers offer flexible class schedules that allow residents to try new activities without long-term commitments.

Nutrition plays an equally important role, and it’s another area where balance matters. Instead of restrictive diets, sustainable eating focuses on moderation and nourishment. Adding more whole foods— fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains—creates positive change without the stress of cutting out favorites. Planning meals ahead of time, keeping healthy snacks on hand and allowing room for occasional indulgences help prevent the cycle of guilt and quitting altogether.

Mental health is often overlooked in fitness conversations, yet it’s a critical piece of staying on track. Stress, lack of sleep and busy schedules can derail even the best intentions. Prioritizing rest, mindfulness

and recovery is just as important as exercise. Practices like stretching, meditation, journaling or simply unplugging for a few minutes each day can improve focus and resilience. A well-rested, less-stressed mind is far more likely to stick with healthy habits.

Community connection can be a powerful motivator for health as well. Joining walking groups, fitness challenges, recreational sports leagues or wellness events creates a sense of belonging. When goals are shared, success feels collective. Local events, races and charity fitness programs also provide milestones that give training purpose beyond the scale or mirror.

Another mindset shift that helps keep resolutions alive is redefining success. Progress isn’t linear, and setbacks are inevitable. Missing a workout or enjoying a weekend treat doesn’t mean failure, it means being human. What matters is returning to healthy habits without guilt. Small victories, like improved energy, better sleep or increased strength, deserve recognition just as much as weight loss or performance milestones.

As 2026 continues, the most effective approach to health and fitness is one rooted in patience and adaptability. Healthy living isn’t a 30-day challenge or a January-only commitment, it’s a lifelong journey shaped by seasons, schedules and changing goals. By setting realistic expectations, embracing balance and leaning into a supportive community, residents can move beyond short-lived resolutions and build habits that truly last.

Staying on track doesn’t require perfection — just persistence. And in a community that values wellness, connection and quality of life, that persistence is well within reach.

CLOSETS BY DESIGN

Writer / Melissa Gibson

Photographer / Amy Payne

As we begin the new year with resolutions to get more organized,it’s not uncommon to think, “There must be a better way to do this.”

There is - but many of us can’t see the big picture and need a third party to come in, look at a space, and create something that solves the issues we’ve been struggling with for years.

Perhaps this year is the year the garage finally gets cleaned out and reorganized, or the walk-in closet that looked like a dream when you first moved in can now be functional and fun.

For the past couple of years, Anthony and Jill Rund have been helping customers transform areas of their home to maximize space, become better organized and simply enjoy the aesthetically pleasing look of a well-designed space.

“My wife and I moved here nine years ago and loved the area,” Rund said. “We see this as our long-term home, and we’re excited to represent a great local team here in Indianapolis, delivering products and services that deliver long-lasting value and relationships for our customers.

When a customer calls, a designer visits the home, takes measurements, talks to the customer about their desires and their use for the space, and then sits down to come up

with a plan together.

“What sets us apart is the time we take to listen to our customers’ needs, and then custom design and manufacture a product that delivers on those needs,” Rund said. “At our facility in Indianapolis we build the exact system you need and then come in and install it. So, you might find something close for your closet at a big-box store, but here, if you need something that is 28.5 inches, we’ll maximize that space by making something custom for you.”

Closets are a popular request, but Rund said they work in pantries, laundry rooms, garages, media/entertainment rooms, and basements - anywhere that might be in need of organization and a better storage or display system.

“It’s not uncommon for someone to say they have this old wire rack system and they want to get rid of that,” Rund said. “Customers are looking for the next level, a quality look, and oftentimes we can’t find that at a bigbox store.”

As a family of six, Rund and his wife know firsthand the challenges of maintaining a home with four children, and love the idea of helping others reach their goals for their home.

“Our tagline is, ‘Imagine your home totally organized,’” Rund says. “We could see right away how this product could be very helpful and it would really help people organize their lives. We take pictures of before and after, and often share those with the team because it’s inspiring to us as well as it is to you.”

Closets by Design is a national franchise with an established brand, but the team in Indianapolis that designs, engineers and builds the product is local to your neighborhood.

They have a small showroom for curious customers who want to see options and allow their imaginations to expand. The showroom and manufacturing building is located at 1810 South Lynhurst Drive, Suite Q in Indianapolis.

CONNECT

1810 South Lynhurst Drive, Suite Q Indianapolis, IN indianapolis.closetsbydesign.com

CLEARED FOR TAKEOFF

INDIANAPOLIS EXECUTIVE AIRPORT EXPANSION FUELS REGIONAL MOMENTUM

Writer / Ashley Dykton

The Indianapolis Executive Airport is “taking off” with momentum and growth heading into 2026.

The Indianapolis Executive Airport is an intricate part of economic development in Boone and Hamilton counties and is overseen by the Hamilton County Airport Authority. The airport is utilized by general aviation, business and charter flights. It is recognized as a leader in aviation innovation in central Indiana and is one of the busiest non-towered general aviation airports in the U.S. It is also the second-busiest airport in the state in terms of business aircraft aviation.

The Indianapolis Executive Airport has a busy year of growth and development ahead, especially with the ongoing process of bringing a U.S. Customs office to the airport.

After seeing an increase in international flights, the airport began looking at ways to better accommodate this growth, which initially facilitated the idea of potentially having a customs facility on-site. This would streamline international operations by bypassing the need to route flights through Indianapolis International Airport. The potential addition of a customs office not only creates the opportunity to service more international flights, but also opens

the door for significant economic growth from national and international companies, as well as travelers coming to Boone and Hamilton counties.

“The process to create a customs facility started a couple of years ago, beginning in 2023. It is a lengthy process, and we had the support of senators and lobbyists who went to D.C. to advocate for us,” says Airport Director Sam Sachs.

The foundation for the anticipated customs building was poured in October when construction began on a new Beck’s hangar.

Beck’s already has a prominent footprint at the airport, including a large, designated hangar on-site. The major seed innovator utilizes the airport for business and international flights and currently has another large hangar under construction.

Even though the groundwork has been poured, negotiations and preparations regarding the customs building are still underway. Regulatory approvals, funding and logistical details, including facility design, staffing and security, remain in progress.

Jet Access is also a key component of the airport’s success. Operating as the fullservice fixed-base operator, Jet Access plays

a major role in daily operations. Services include ramp support with aircraft taxiing assistance, full-service fueling and ground support, aircraft management and charter services, maintenance and de-icing services, concierge support, private conference rooms and pilot amenities, including a private pilots room and access to courtesy cars.

Jet Access also operates the flight school located at the Indianapolis Executive Airport. The school offers private, instrument and commercial pilot courses and provides students with a flexible payas-you-go flight training program, allowing them to progress at their own pace while remaining mindful of costs.

The Indianapolis Executive Airport has undergone significant infrastructure upgrades to accommodate its growth, including a recent major runway extension. The runway now measures 7,001 feet in length, making it one of the largest general aviation runways in Indiana. As a result of the expansion, the airport can now accommodate larger charter and international flights. Additional improvements include ongoing hangar development and an LED lighting project designed to enhance operations during nighttime and adverse weather conditions.

The Indianapolis Executive Airport also boasts a unique feature as the Midwest’s first all-weather arrival and departure canopy on its ramp, helping mitigate the unpredictability of Indiana weather. The airport offers complimentary 45-minute youth tours, accommodating groups of approximately eight to 20 students. The recommended age for tours is 5 and older. Tours include a brief introduction to airport operations and aircraft housed in the hangars and are offered Monday through Friday from 9 to 11 a.m. and 2 to 4 p.m.

With ongoing developments including upgraded facilities, expanded services, new hangar construction and continued progress toward a U.S. Customs office, the Indianapolis Executive Airport and Jet Access are positioned to make 2026 a pivotal year.

To learn more about the Indianapolis Executive Airport, including free public tours, visit indyexec.com.

FINDING ANSWERS & COMPASSIONATE CARE

HOW A RIVERVIEW HEALTH PHYSICIAN HELPED ONE WOMAN FEEL BETTER THAN SHE HAS IN A DECADE

Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing Photographer / Robert Jones

A woman’s health journey can be a disconcerting one when not paired with a quality and compassionate medical team.

Many women struggle to get solid answers and helpful solutions to the health problems they face. Such was the case for Sarrah Stafford who had suffered with heavy periods for the past 30-plus years ever since she started menstruating at age 13. Her cycles had become particularly difficult, however, over the last 10 years.

“It had gotten to the point where it was hard to function anymore,” says Stafford, who searched for answers by consulting multiple

doctors. Unfortunately, none of them provided any hope, healing, or help.

Even after all these consultations, Stafford was left wondering what was wrong with her. Was it hormonal? Perhaps the onset of perimenopause? She asked doctors what could possibly cause such long, heavy cycles, and they simply shrugged and said, “Yeah, with your period you’re going to have cramps and bleeding.”

Yes, but heavy bleeding for seven to 10 days straight?! Stafford knew that what she was experiencing was not normal.

Stafford arrived to one of her appointments with another provider armed with a list of questions as she was determined to leave with answers and advice. But after she voiced her first question — requesting information about perimenopause and menopause — the doctor responded flatly, “Menopause is when you haven’t had your cycle for one year. Have you had your cycle in the last 12 months?”

It was a snarky question given that the purpose of the appointment was to figure out what was causing her heavy cycles.

“I’m not a crier, but after I left her office, I

got in my car and sobbed,” Stafford says. “I was just really discouraged and felt like there must not be anyone out there who could help me feel better.”

Not long after that she was at work when she started feeling so awful that she questioned if she had appendicitis. She gutted out the pain all day, but by the time she got home from work, she feared something was terribly wrong.

She headed to Riverview Health’s urgent care where she received excellent and thorough care. Initially suspecting a kidney stone, they ran several tests. It wasn’t appendicitis or a kidney stone, but images revealed that Stafford’s uterus was covered in fibroids. In addition, her hemoglobin number was 6 rather than the usual 12 to 15.

The Riverview Health team referred Stafford to Dr. Deena Elsahy, a fellowship trained Minimally Invasive GYN Surgeon, and that’s where Stafford’s positive health journey began. Dr. Elsahy found that Stafford’s uterus was unusually large, with several fibroids.

“It was pregnant sized — past the level of her belly button,” says Dr. Elsahy, who went over all the options with Stafford, recommending a minimally invasive surgery by removing the uterus

via a robotic hysterectomy. Although Stafford had never heard of such a robotic procedure, she trusted Dr. Elsahy because, unlike all the other physicians she had seen, Dr. Elsahy listened, cared, and took all the time necessary to answer each and every one of Stafford’s questions.

“She’s so smart, and I was just blown away by her at our first meeting,” Stafford says. “I felt heard, I felt safe, and I felt like she was going to help me feel better — finally!”

Sadly, this road to finding a competent and trustworthy doctor for women’s issues is all too common for many females.

“In women’s health, it can be particularly challenging for women to receive the care that they need,” Dr. Elsahy says. “A lot of women, especially those with chronic pelvic pain and endometriosis, have seen several doctors and felt like they have been dismissed before they finally find a provider who listens to their concerns and lets them know [their symptoms] are not all in their head.”

Stafford had her robotic surgery on

December 26, 2024, and was up and walking around hours after waking up in the recovery room. She was discharged the same day.

“The surgery was minimally disruptive to my already busy life,” Stafford says.

Her mom had a hysterectomy 25 years earlier that was a vastly different experience as doctors cut into her abdomen almost like a C-section, making recovery lengthier and more painful. According to Dr. Elsahy, the minimally invasive approach has been shown to have many significant improvements in terms of less intra-op and postop complications, which allows her laparoscopic and robotic hysterectomy patients to go home on the same day as the surgery.

It’s been a little over a year since her hysterectomy, and Stafford couldn’t be more pleased with the results, with her current health, and with the care she received from Riverview Health.

Stafford reports feeling the best she has felt

in 10 years. Just the cessation of her cycles alone has been a huge relief.

“That’s made everything loads better because I used to feel good for maybe a week out of the month and then my body would prime for starting the cycle, with bleeding that would last anywhere from seven to 10 days,” Stafford says. “That was seven to 10 days of cramping, too.”

Now, her hemoglobin and iron numbers are back up and stable, so her energy level has improved significantly. Plus, her hair is growing back, and the color has returned to her skin.

“My family laughs because they’re like, ‘We didn’t realize how pale you were before, but what the heck? Now you have color in your lips and face!’” Stafford says.

Her quality of life has improved tremendously in every way possible.

“Having the surgery changed every aspect of my health, both physically and

mentally,” Stafford says. “Overall, I feel like my old self again.”

Stafford can’t begin to articulate the relief she felt once she finally found a doctor who cared enough to ask questions, listen, and respond with compassion.

“The mental load that was taken off of me when I finally found someone in my corner that knew what was going on with me, knew how to fix it, and had a plan going forward is hard to describe,” Stafford says. “I knew I was in good hands, and I felt such relief. I just cried and hugged Dr. Elsahy in her office.”

Now, over a year later, she gets emotional just talking about it. As for Dr. Elsahy, she says that her favorite part of the job is getting to know her patients on a personal level.

“At the end of the day, it’s about the people,” she says. “That’s why I do what I do.”

Stafford recommends any woman who is considering this surgery to do her research on treatments and doctors.

“If someone has issues going on with women’s health, I will always refer them to Dr. Elsahy [and Riverview Health],” Stafford says.

To learn more and find a Riverview Women’s Health provider, visit riverview. org/women or call 317-776-9400 for Noblesville or 317-214-5788 for Westfield.

KAREN HUBBARD

Writer / Juli Knutson

When she walked into a bobsled combine last May, Karen Hubbard thought she was simply testing her power-sprinting background in a new environment. Instead, she walked straight into a future she hadn’t yet imagined. A former collegiate track athlete with a knack for explosive speed, she quickly became nationally ranked and caught the eye of Team USA bobsled coaches. Within weeks, she was invited to Rookie Camp — one of only five women selected from across the country. She finished first in the 2025 Rookie Camp Push Competition, a standout performance that earned her invitations to Development Camp, Performance Camp and Push Camp Trials.

The possibility of the 2026 Olympics was suddenly on her radar.

Since then, Hubbard’s life has shifted into a new gear. Training for the Olympics requires dedication, discipline and relentless time management — skills she credits to her engineering education from Purdue University and juggling multiple responsibilities in both college and career. As a developmental athlete for USA Bobsled, she is deepening her technical understanding of the sport, building strength and speed, and positioning herself for a competitive season leading into

(Formerly Wittler Orthodontics)

Olympic team selections in January.

As a newcomer to the sport, her “why” is simple: She loves the power and the speed. It is, she says, “the perfect combination of adrenaline, poise, power and engineering.” It seems to be a perfect fit.

The path to the Olympics brings new challenges beyond the ice track. The financial burden is immense: travel, equipment rental fees — nearly everything is self-funded. Hubbard had to dive headfirst into social media, branding and sponsorship outreach, none of which came naturally at first. Yet she learned quickly, driven by necessity and a desire to share not just her dream, but the bigger story behind it. Women’s sports, she says, remain underfunded and overlooked.

“I’m hopeful, but also realistic,” she says. “We’re at the precipice of something incredible in women’s sports.”

Bobsledding is just one of Hubbard’s passions. Her company, Kortex, is a consultancy that builds AI literacy solutions rooted in human skills like collaboration and problem-solving. By partnering with schools, companies and organizations, she helps create clear career pathways for youth and adults.

“People get nervous about the future,” she says. “I love creating experiences that help them find their genius zone. I can see a light in their eyes at the intersection of tech and teamwork.”

Add to that her nonprofit, Karen Sleighs Inc., which inspires girls in sports and STEM, and coaching track at Westfield High School, and her time management becomes a superpower.

Looking ahead, Hubbard hopes to continue her growth and competitiveness in bobsledding and use the platform to elevate women’s sports more broadly.

She credits her mom, little brother, mentors, the Westfield community and her church for fueling her journey — all of whom poured into her physically, academically and spiritually.

Now, she is determined to use that strength to help more women chase their dreams.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

February Luncheon with Economic Development

Join fellow young professionals for a one-of-a-kind professional and personal development experience on March 25 from 9:30am-4pm at IMMI Conference Center With a keynote speaker and four breakout session options, there is a wealth of knowledge in store to help you grow in the areas that best cater to you!

This event is open to anyone who lives or works in Hamilton County and is looking to sharpen their skills and network. The all-inclusive cost includes leadership training and materials, food, and a ticket to the post-event happy hour.

Registration is available through the Chamber website. Please share this event with your colleagues who are early in their professional journey or just eager to learn!

The Westfield Chamber invites business leaders, community members, and guests to attend our February Luncheon on Thursday, February 19 at The Club at Chatham Hills from 11am-1pm. We look forward to hearing from Jenell Fairman, Executive Chief of Economic and Community Development for the City of Westfield! Westfield continues to strategically develop and plan for long-term impact, and Jenell will provide an overview of these efforts. Register now at our website We hope to see you there!

Annual Golf Outing

Save the date for our 23rd Annual Golf Outing on May 11, 2026, at The Club at Chatham Hills! This event has become a beloved tradition for our business community, and we can't wait to make it even more memorable this year Don't miss out on this opportunity to build your network, play golf on a beautiful course, and support your local community Stay tuned for registration and more information!