Partners - Sacred Heart Hospital

S A C R E D
Non-Profit Org.
U.S. Postage
PAID
Permit No. 105
Eau Claire, WI
54701
900 West Clairemont Ave.
Eau Claire, WI 54701
The Volunteer Partners’
newsletter is published three
times a year to communicate
information of interest and
usefulness to volunteers and
friends. We welcome all suggestions and comments. You
may contact me at 715-2253978 or e-mail me at [email protected]
ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
Jaci Fuller, Volunteer Partners
Newsletter Coordinator.
Spotlight on Volunteers
H E A R T
H O S P I T A L
VOLUNTEER
Partners
May 2014
A special Thank You
to all volunteers for making Sacred Heart Hospital a place of healing, comfort,
and hope. Congratulations to all the volunteers on their milestone years
volunteering at Sacred Heart. Twenty-four volunteers were honored at the
Volunteer Open House Celebration held on April 15 in the Community Auditorium
for their volunteer milestone years.
continued
VOLUNTEERS HONORED
Congratulations to the volunteers with 5 years of service:
25 years – Barb Gordon
20 years – Judy LaFave
10 years – Mary Theisen
20 years – Margaret Berg
10 years-Beverly Seibel
10 years – Steve Werner
Volunteer Partners
Mission Statement
In partnership with
Sacred Heart Hospital,
the Volunteer Partners will
provide compassionate,
supportive services for
patients, their families
and Hospital staff;
promote community
awareness of the
Hospital's mission;
and raise funds for
continued on back page
Hospital needs.
Top Row: Mary Burt, Kathy Herfel, Barb Filla, Rosemary Kovar, Kaye Peterson, Marge Gharrity Second Row: Cynthia Shampine, Barb Teasdale,
Marian Olson, Deb Stanke, Judy St. Arnault, Barbara Schumacher Third Row: Olga Wise, David Hartmann, Judi Teske, Cathy Vanderheiden
20 years - Owen Moyer
10 years - Ashley Stuber
VOLUNTEER PARTNERS
VOLUNTEER PARTNERS
Message from Administration
NEW VOLUNTEERS — WELCOME!
Dear Volunteer Partners,
A few years ago, there was a wonderful article in Newsweek about an author who was trying to come up with ideas for
a new book. After much contemplation, she finally decided to have her heroine be a hospital volunteer. The novelist
asked the volunteer coordinator at her local hospital if she could observe a volunteer for a few hours, just to get an
idea of what they did. The coordinator said no, she couldn’t do that, but if she wanted to become an actual volunteer,
that would be great.
The novelist wasn’t sure about this turn of events because, as she noted, “I wasn’t wild about being in close proximity
to people with germs. And weren’t hospital volunteers either teenage candy stripers or retired seniors? I was neither.”
But she finally acquiesced. The novelist’s impression of volunteerism changed over the course of just a few weeks. She wrote:
Initially, my focus was on my novel. And then a funny thing happened: I stopped researching and starting realizing that I might actually be
making a difference in people’s lives. A woman who’d just been diagnosed with stage four lung cancer thanked me for brushing her hair and
applying her lipstick. A kid who’d been rendered a paraplegic after a gunshot wound told me that the issues of Sports Illustrated I brought him
were the high point of each week. A man who was wasting away from AIDS deemed me his “angel” simply because I took twenty minutes to
transcribe the letter he dictated to his mother.
I began to look forward to my shifts and to resent the hours I spent at the computer. My priorities were changing. I was changing. I felt
appreciated at the hospital and grateful that I’d been given the opportunity to provide any sort of comfort and support to those with medical
problems. Friends would ask, “Isn’t it depressing at that place?” “On the contrary,” I’d say, and I meant it.
What a beautiful expression of what volunteering is all about! Every single day you come to Sacred Heart Hospital, you make a difference – in the
lives of our patients, their families, our hospital colleagues, and our physicians. Your faithful presence brings cheer and gentle assistance to so
many in need. You help make Sacred Heart a place of healing, comfort and hope.
On behalf of the Hospital Sisters, the Administration, and the Board of Directors, please accept our deepest gratitude for your dedicated service
to Sacred Heart Hospital as a Volunteer Partner. You are an integral part of our healthcare team, and your many hours of service ensure that the
Hospital Sisters’ Mission will continue for generations to come.
Sincerely,
Julie Manas
President and CEO, Sacred Heart Hospital
If I can stop one heart from breaking,
I shall not live in vain;
If I can ease one life the aching,
Or cool one pain,
Or help one fainting robin
Unto his nest again,
I shall not live in vain.
~Emily Dickinson
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Adults Mary Ryberg
Judy
Ayer
Elizabeth Schafer
Jim Culbert
Paul Stark
Rose Gillitzer
Sharon Stearns
Rose Manzella
Pam Weiland
(returning)
Schuster
Jennifer Reetz
Mary Ann Zmuda
Deb Ridenour
HANDCRAFTERS
CollegeHigh School
Joan Everson
Stephanie Born
Lucy Wang
Barb Medford
Bethani Danielski
Sandy Sagert
Hannah Gilbert
Martha Spangler
Kelsey Holmquist
Ji Hyun (Stephanie) Kim
Jenna Knoche
Brogan Resch
Caleb Schuster
DATES TO REMEMBER
Date
Event
Location
May 19, 2014
Board of Directors meeting
TBA
June 2, 2014
Advance Directives Seminar
Community Auditorium
June 17, 2014
Pie & Ice Cream Social
Bishop/Treacy Hall
June 23, 2014
Board of Directors meeting
TBA
Volunteer Services and Gift Shop will be closed:
Memorial Day (5/26), Independence Day (7/4) and Labor Day (9/1)
Time
9 a.m.
6 – 7:30 p.m.
11 a.m.
9 a.m.
Spotlight on Volunteers
In this issue, the spotlight is on four
volunteers who have volunteered for 20
and 25 years at Sacred Heart Hospital Wow!
Barb Gordon volunteers in the Family
Waiting Center and has for 25 years!
She lived in Eau Claire until moving
to Altoona when she entered 7th
grade. Following graduation, Barb was
employed in Eau Claire until she was
diagnosed with cancer and could not
work. While receiving treatment at
Sacred Heart Hospital, she heard about
the volunteer program and decided to try
it. Barb enjoys volunteering in the Family
Waiting Center and states, “It feels really
good to help people!”
Margaret Berg has volunteered in
Transport for 20 years, following her
retirement as a surgical and recovery
room nurse at Sacred Heart. Margaret
grew up in Chippewa Falls and
attended nursing school at St. John’s in
Springfield. She then began her nursing
career at St. Joseph’s Hospital before
transferring to Sacred Heart Hospital.
When Margaret retired, she wanted to
give back to the hospital as it was so
good and helpful to her, and she also
wanted to help people. She plans to
continue to volunteer as she feels she
still has something yet to do in life!
Owen Moyer began volunteering at
the Gift shop and Information Desk at
Sacred Heart in 1994 after he retired.
He wanted to help people, provide a
service, and do something to occupy
his time. Owen grew up in Madison
and was a social studies teacher in
Hayward before becoming the Director
of Instruction in Education for the
Delevan-Darien School District. When
he retired, he and his wife moved to
11
Eau Claire. After 20 years, Owen still
volunteers at the Information Desk
and feels his volunteering at Sacred
Heart is a very rewarding and worthwhile experience.
Judy LaFave remembers 20 years
ago, when she started volunteering
at Sacred Heart Hospital. The Family
Waiting Center was two rooms, one for
surgical and one for critical care when
she began. She also volunteered at
the Information Desk for awhile. Judy
lived in Antigo and moved to Eau Claire
after she was married. She taught
elementary school in Augusta and was
principal at St Mary’s Catholic school
for 5 years before retiring. Judy enjoys
volunteering and is fond of Sacred
Heart Hospital.
Congratulations on a combined total
of 85 years of volunteering!
(Continued on back page)
VOLUNTEER PARTNERS
VOLUNTEER PARTNERS
NATIONAL VOLUNTEER MONTH CELEBRATED!
April was National Volunteer Month, and April 5 - 12, 2014 was National
Volunteer Week. In 1974 President Nixon signed an Executive Order
establishing the week as an annual celebration of volunteering and
since then, every U. S. president has signed a proclamation promoting
National Volunteer Week. This year marked the 40th anniversary of
National Volunteer Week.
To celebrate National Volunteer Month, Sacred Heart Hospital
Volunteer Services Department and the Administration held an
Open House on April 15, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in the Hospital
auditorium to honor and recognize the volunteers for their dedication,
compassion and kindness to patients, visitors and staff. Faye Deich,
COO, welcomed the group and gave an Administrative update. Julie
Manas, CEO, also addressed and thanked the volunteers. Volunteers
with milestone years were recognized, and the Volunteer Partners
annual business meeting with election and installation of board
members and officers for 2014/15 was held.
Upcoming Events
ADVANCE DIRECTIVES SEMINAR
Volunteer Partners will host their fourth annual Community
Advance Directives Seminar on Monday, June 2 from 6 - 7:30 pm
in the Community Auditorium. An Advance Directive is a Power
of Attorney for Health Care. It assures individuals that their
voices are heard, even if they cannot communicate with their
doctors because of an illness or accident. Everyone over 18
should have the document. Philip Anderson, Director, Center
for Spiritual Care, will explain the form and lead participants
in filling it out. Volunteer Partners will assist and witness
signatures.
What’s been going on in 2014?
It has been busy and productive, because of your help and work! In all the volunteer endeavors and especially
the core volunteer areas: Information Desk, Family Waiting Center, Transportation and Gift Shop. A HUGE
“THANK YOU” to the exceptionally dedicated volunteers for working to cover shifts for people with illnesses,
surgeries, snowbirds and more.
Where are we going?
Mary Pengra, Volunteer Services Director, and we volunteers work to serve SHH mission and meet the rapidly
occurring healthcare challenges already here and coming. Our work throughout the hospital is in continual
view of patients and their families, visitors, the general public, as well as behind-the-scenes clerical and support areas.
The free program is open to the entire community. You are
encouraged to bring your friends and family. Please bring the
names, addresses, and phone numbers of those you wish to
name as your health care agents. Registration information will
be available soon.
Our volunteer services are necessary and valuable to complement that of the hospital professionals and departments. YOU are the smiling,
welcoming, helping faces visible throughout the hospital. You provide warm, friendly hospitality to patient’s families, visitors as well as
some certain, specific patient needs.
Joan Cook, Chair
We have begun and need to work diligently to grow the volunteer team larger so that all volunteers have more opportunity for greater
flexibility in their personal and volunteer lives. We welcome and encourage a diverse group of women and men of all ages of adults to join
us meet the needs of SHH to fulfill its mission and succeed.
TO OUR VOLUNTEERS
Thank you for your thoughtfulness and smile
You bring to every face,
With each moment of service you give
The world becomes a better place.
Your commitment and dedication makes
You really stand out.
We’re grateful to have you here.
You’re what volunteering is all about!
A note from your President
PIE AND ICE CREAM SOCIAL
The popular Volunteer Partners’ Pie & Ice Cream Social is
scheduled for June 17, 2014 starting at 11:00 a.m. and continuing
until the pies are gone! The social will be held in Bishop/Treacy
Halls. There will be approximately
18 varieties of pies, along with
ice cream so bring your appetite
(and forget the calories!) Proceeds
from this event help support the
Tuition Assistance Grant Program.
Mark your calendars and hope to
see you there!
(Author unknown)
PEDIATRIC HEALTH FAIR SUCCESSFUL
The Pediatric Health Fair organized by the Center for Healthy Living
and held April 9 at the Sports Center was a great success. It was a oneday event for all second graders in the area, and many volunteers were
needed to help. There were 18 adult volunteers and 21 Memorial High
School student volunteers who helped make the event successful.
Many community presenters as well as colleagues from Sacred Heart
Hospital participated. The emphasis was on healthy llfe styles. The
feedback from the children and teachers was very positive and this
format and venue will be used again next year. The pictures created
by the children representing the lesson they learned during the day
were wonderful.
A sincere thank you goes out to all the volunteers who helped at the
event. A special thank you to Margaret Berg who graciously took the
leadership role in organizing and overseeing the volunteers on April 9
and to Barb Filla who assisted her during the afternoon.
Kathy Mosack, Chair
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VOLUNTEER PARTNERS TO CELEBRATE 75 YEARS!
The Volunteer Partners of Sacred Heart Hospital will celebrate
their 75th anniversary this fall. On November 1, 1939, fifteen
women met to organize the volunteer group, with an original
statement of purpose: “To render service, and work for the
Hospital as a nonsectarian organization.” Their motto was
“Volunteers caring for patient, family, hospital and community
through services and dedication.” When the Guild was
organized, the annual dues were $1.00 and the women formed a
volunteer committee to sew linens, make bed sheets, baby shirts,
towels, diapers, aprons and other items required for the hospital
supply room.
The name of the organization was changed in 1963 from The
Guild to the Sacred Heart Auxiliary. In 1964, the Auxiliary
celebrated its 25th anniversary in the new hospital. The name
of the Auxiliary was changed to “Partners” in 1996 and in 1998
changed to Volunteer/Partners. Later it became Volunteer
Partners.
More information will be coming regarding the 75th anniversary!
One example of the value we provide: Many families and visitors who come to the Family Waiting Center speak of getting up very early
in the day, traveling long distances to get to SHH. On one particular day, there were people from Winter, Ladysmith, Baldwin, Amery and
the Twin Cities. Volunteer hospitality, work and services are critical to the outcome and results for these visitors, the patients and SHH.
Our reward: Seeing smiles on the faces of the guests and hearing their grateful “thank you.” We experience that precious, inner feeling of
personal joy and satisfaction in giving from our heart to help make someone’s day better!
Our invitation and challenge to you!
Would you be willing to share your personal feelings and experiences of joy and satisfaction with other people? And ask them if they
would consider joining the Volunteer Partners of SHH? Ask them to call Mary Pengra for more information.
The challenge to you: Reach out to bring in just one new volunteer member from amongst your friends, family, acquaintances and others
you know or meet. Share with them the joy and satisfaction you receive from serving, along with some benefits of being a volunteer. That
would double our membership!
“Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring,
all of which have the potential to turn a life around.” ~Leo Buscaglia
Barb Filla, President
Volunteer Partners
NEWSLETTER NEWSFLASH!
We will now be able to send the Volunteer Partners Newsletter electronically, which will save the cost of printing and
mailing the printed copy - a significant savings. Please let us know if we can send you the newsletter electronically
by contacting Jaci Fuller at [email protected] or calling the Volunteer Services Office at 715-717-4255. This is yet
another way in which to contain rising healthcare costs. Help us make a difference!
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VOLUNTEER PARTNERS
Directly Speaking…
On April 15 we held our first annual Volunteer Open House. The new format was designed to encourage greater
attendance with volunteers, their friends, and families and with our hospital colleagues. From the feedback
received, people enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere, short program and company of other volunteers as well as staff.
The following was offered:
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•
•
•
•
•
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A “step back in time” volunteer history table (we celebrate 75 years as a program this year) – some of the pictures were amazing!
A sign up table for volunteers and staff alike to receive our volunteer newsletter via email.
A handcrafter’s table showcasing various projects – get involved with any and all ongoing projects.
Volunteer Partners Board of Directors members available to discuss their role in our hospital and volunteer program.
Door prize drawings - four gift certificates of $25 each to the hospital’s Trinkets & Treasures gift shop.
Pet Therapy – Bonnie Wright and her furry family, Siri & Jazzy Wright, were on hand to supply plenty of love and friendship!
PowerPoint of volunteer anniversary recognition, colleague comments, and volunteer program activities pictures.
Tasty refreshments.
If you couldn’t attend this year, we hope to see you at next year’s open house. While we set aside a particular day each year to officially
celebrate volunteers, it is important to know we honor, recognize and appreciate our volunteers every day of the year.
Herman Melville, American novelist/poet/writer once said, “We cannot live only for ourselves. A thousand fibers connect us with our fellow
men.” What a wonderful quote. Thank you all for being the fiber in our lives and that of our patients and beyond! The connections we
make with one another and for others are invaluable.
May happiness touch your life today as warmly as you have touched the lives of others. -- Rebecca Forsythe
With Gratitude,
Mary Pengra, Director
Volunteer Services
To Be a Volunteer
Generosity – a willingness to give your time to others.
PARTNERS HOST DISTRICT MEETING
Past Events
ANNUAL ADVOCACY DAY
The Wisconsin Hospital Association’s Advocacy day, held on April 16, 2014
in Madison, is an annual legislative event designed to inspire and educate
health care colleagues, volunteers and others on health-related issues
and grassroots advocacy opportunities. Volunteer Partners from Sacred
Heart Hospital, Jaci Fuller and Barb Filla, joined over 800 hospital leaders,
employees, trustees and other volunteers for the day.
Ed Harding, WHA 2014 Chair, welcomed attendees, followed by Bonnie
Olson, President Elect of the Partners of WHA who led the group in the
Pledge of Allegiance to the flag. The keynote speaker was Larry J, Sabato,
Professor of Politics and Director of Center for Politics for the University
of Virginia, who spoke on “Looking into the Political Crystal Ball.” A State
Legislative Panel then provided information on health care issues.
Governor Scott Walker addressed the group at the luncheon, followed
by the 2014 State Legislative Issues Update by Eric Borgerding, WHA
Executive Vice President. The Health Care Advocate Award and Advocacy
All-Star Award were given and the group then traveled to the State
Capital to meet with their legislators. Participants from Sacred Heart
Hospital and St. Joseph’s Hospital also attended a reception to learn more
about the Hospital Sisters Health Systems healing ministry and efforts to
improve the quality and efficiency of heath care services.
UNIFORM/LINENS SALE A SUCCESS!
The Uniform/Linens Sale on February
25 and 26, 2014, held in the community
auditorium, provided a huge selection
of tops, slacks, shoes and accessories
plus quality sheet sets, comforters and
throws. The Volunteer Partners received
15% of sales for PRN Uniforms and 20%
of sales for 40 Winks & More Linens, for a profit of $1,441, which will
go towards hospital needs and equipment. Drawings provided by the
vendor included two $25 gift certificates on February 25 and two throw
blankets on February 26.
Understanding – because their lives might be very different from your own.
Empathy – an ability to put yourself in someone else’s shoes and feel what they must feel.
Compassion – to truly care about making someone else’s life better.
Patience – because the process doesn’t always go as smoothly as it might.
Dedication – to stick with the project and see it through.
Volunteers show these qualities and so much more, so….
Thank you for all that you do!
A Big Thank you to the following volunteers who donated their time
and talent to assist at the sale: Donna Hoffmann, Steven Lange, Marie
Thorson, Janet Lesniewski, Kathleen Mosack, Sharon Schug and Kathy
Ruscin. Your commitment is greatly appreciated!
VOLUNTEERS ARE DEDICATED TO PATIENTS
Prior to ending the Spring West Central District meeting, Director of
Volunteer Services Mary Pengra announced the table floral arrangements
would be taken to patients in the hospital. The winners of the drawings
for the three head table floral arrangements then graciously donated
their flowers to be given to patients.
Joan Cook, Secretary
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The Volunteer Partners of Sacred Heart Hospital hosted
the Partners of WHA (Wisconsin Hospital Association)
West Central District meeting on April 1, 2014, in the
community auditorium. Attending were 73 volunteers
from 9 area hospitals*. Barb Filla, Volunteer Partners
President and Julie Manas, Sacred Heart CEO, welcomed
the group, followed by Philip Anderson, Director for
Spiritual Care, who provided the prayer. Don Winrich,
Public Policy and Education Chair, led the group in
the Pledge of Allegiance. The morning program “How
to Improve Communication with People who have
Alzheimer’s” was presented by Paula Gibson, Azura
Memory Care, Eau Claire.
Following the program, Carolyn Ward, West Central
District Chair, introduced the State officers, who gave
reports and the district business meeting was then
held. Afternoon discussion groups, led by Volunteer
Partners Board members, studied the concept of servant
leadership, covering different aspects of the Volunteer
Partners. Facilitating the meeting by greeting, seating
and serving were the following volunteers: Elizabeth
Moos, Phyllis Pecor, Margaret Berg, Marion Olson,
Donna Hoffmann, Steve Lange, Pat Everhart, Sharron
Greene and Rita Brunner.
Sacred Heart Hospital Volunteer Bonnie Olson will be
installed as State President of Partners of WHA at the
State Convention in October. Barb Filla will serve as
District Public Policy Education Chair of West Central
District and Sylvia Emerson has been appointed to
serve on the State Partners of WHA WAVE Committee.
Congratulations to Bonnie, Barb and Sylvia!
Joan Cook, Secretary
*Members of the West Central District of the Volunteer
Partners of WHA (Wisconsin Hospital Association)
include:
Amery Regional Medical Center - Amery; St. Joseph’s
Hospital - Chippewa Falls; Cumberland Memorial
Hospital - Cumberland; Sacred Heart Hospital - Eau
Claire; Mayo Clinic Health System - Menomonie;
Osceola Medical Center - Osceola; Lakeview Medical
Center - Rice Lake; River Falls Area Hospital - River Falls;
St. Croix Regional Medical Center - St. Croix Falls; Our
Lady of Victory Hospital -Stanley.
VOLUNTEER PARTNERS
VOLUNTEER PARTNERS
Gift Shop News
Now more than ever, people are conscious of buying
local and staying away from chain stores. Buying local is
frequently touted because this simple act makes your dollar
stretch further into the local economy while supporting your
neighbors and keeping jobs in the area. My favorite example
of this is the Farmer’s Market located at Phoenix Park from
May through October. No matter what the weather (warm,
hot or cold) I enjoy seeing the beautiful display of fruits and
vegetables. There is a great sense of camaraderie as people
exchange smiles and laughter while they shop. Barstow
Street also offers some unique local shopping (when I’m not
using payroll deduction in the Gift Shop!) if I’m looking for
something special.
People often think of local shopping as only pertaining to
food, but it certainly does include shopping at the Gift Shop
in Sacred Heart Hospital.
Dollars spent in the Gift Shop go directly back to the hospital
for buying much needed and updated equipment. Everyone
who shops at the Gift Shop, volunteers, colleagues and the
Report from Friends
customers who come in from the community and surrounding areas, are
putting dollars towards the hospital. It is important to be aware of where
you spend each and every dollar.
As for volunteers, I am so appreciative of those who work in the Gift Shop,
generously giving time and helping me out in a pinch when there are open
shifts to fill, often at a moment’s notice. Not only the Gift Shop volunteers,
but I also appreciate how all the hospital’s volunteers support the shop by
purchasing birthday, holiday, and every day gifts, coming in before or after
their shifts. Thank you!
Remember, during your birthday month, if you shop at the Gift Shop, you
can get a 10% birthday discount, excluding stamps, movie tickets, candy
and flowers. Tell the volunteer when you’re checking out it’s your birthday
month to receive your discount. The Gift Shop offers many beautiful and
fun items.
Jennifer Stuber
Gift Shop Manager
For Your Information
May is a busy, busy time in the Friends Office. We celebrate the annual Monsignor Klimek Healing Presence
Lecture Series, host our annual Caritas Guild Dinner, and our annual Donor Open House. Whew! It’s a whirlwind,
but always so exhilarating to be with our colleagues, volunteers, donors, and community members. Our
wonderful mission attracts wonderful people.
As volunteers in the hospital you may be well aware that each year in February we hold our annual Colleague
Giving Campaign. Thanks to my colleague, Monica Herman, and her fantastic Committee, the campaign is full
of fun and enthusiasm. This year we hit another all-time record total with more than $105,000 raised for hospital programs and services.
Wow! Our colleagues never cease to amaze us.
One of the very special funds that the colleague campaign benefits is our Colleague Emergency Assistance Fund. Over the past three years,
37 grants totaling more than $18,000 have been given to help hospital colleagues during a time of need. It may be an accident, a health
issue or a family emergency that causes financial strain. A gift of up to $500 may not resolve the problem, but hopefully it eases the stress
and lets them know they are cared for and not alone.
I so enjoyed spending some time at the Volunteer Open House in April. The displays showing your history and highlighting your projects
were impressive. You have so much to be proud of. It warmed my heart to have several of you express that you often hear from Hospital
colleagues how appreciative we are of your work. You play a valuable role in the life of our ministry, and we are grateful for all you do.
Blessings!
Ann Kaiser, Director of Development
Friends of Sacred Heart Hospital
Board Updates
HOW TO LIVE TO BE 100
MEMORY LOSS – 7 TIPS TO IMPROVE YOUR MEMORY
Concerned about memory loss? Although there are no
guarantees when it comes to preventing memory loss or
dementia, memory tricks can be helpful. Consider seven simple
ways to sharpen your memory.
Your genes have a lot to do with your life span, but doctors agree that you can make a big dent in your risk of chronic disease by doing 12
simple things.
1. Stop Smoking. Four years after doing so, your chance of having a heart attack falls to that of someone who has never smoked. After ten
years, your lung cancer risk drops to nearly that of a nonsmoker.
2. Exercise daily. Thirty minutes of activity is all that’s necessary or three ten-minute walks.
3. Eat five servings of produce daily that would be fruits and vegetables.
4. Get screened. No need to go test-crazy; just get the health screenings recommended for your stage of life. Check with your doctor to make
sure you’re up-to-date.
5. Get plenty of sleep. For most adults, that means seven to eight hours every night. If you have a tough time turning off the light, remember
that sleep deprivation raises the risk of heart disease cancer and more.
6. Ask your doctor about low-dose aspirin. Heart attack, stroke, even cancer - a single 81 mg tablet per day may fight them all. Aspirin comes
with risks, so don’t start on your own.
7. Know your blood pressure. It’s not called the silent killer just for the drama. Keep yours under 120/80.
8. Stay connected. Loneliness is another form of stress. Friends, family and furry pets supply “vitamin F.”
9. Cut back on saturated fat. It’s the raw material your body uses for producing LDL, bad cholesterol.
10. Get help for depression. It doesn’t just feel bad; it does bad things to your body. In fact, when tacked on to diabetes and heart disease it
increases risk of early death by as much as 30 percent.
11. Manage stress. Doctors surveyed say that living with uncontrolled stress is more destructive to your health than being 30 pounds over
weight.
12. Have a higher purpose. “Strive to achieve something bigger than yourself.” By giving back you give to yourself.
• Stay mentally active. Just as physical activity helps keep your
body in shape, mentally stimulated activities help keep your
brain in shape.
• Socialize regularly. Social interaction helps ward off
depression and stress, both of which can continue to memory
loss.
• Get organized. You’re more likely to forget things if your
home is cluttered and your notes are in disarray.
• Focus. Limit distractions and don’t try to do too many things
at once.
• Eat a healthy diet. A heart-healthy diet that may be good for
your brain as it is for your heart.
• Include a physical activity in your daily routine. Physical
activity increases blood flow to your whole body, including
your brain.
• Manage chronic conditions. Follow your doctor’s treatment
recommendations for any chronic conditions, such as
diabetes, high blood pressure and depression.
A TIME TO REMEMBER
We wish to extend our sincere and heartfelt sympathy to the
families and friends of the following volunteers, who will be
honored in the TAG (Tuition Assistance Grant) Program: Joan
Hartkemeyer, Beth Rolland, Larry Hagens, Robert Teske and Angela
Lindner.
Our sincere and heartfelt sympathy to Theresa Spletstoser and
Judy Teske, Sacred Heart Hospital volunteers, and to Sue Lynch,
State President of the Partners of WHA, on the death of a family
member.
Joan Cook, Friendship Chair
Jaci Fuller
Source: Reader’s Digest
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5
VOLUNTEER PARTNERS
Board Updates
VOLUNTEER PARTNERS
WELCOME COMMITTEE
continued
HEALTH EDUCATION
TWELVE STEPS TO IMPROVE COMMUNICATION WITH PEOPLE WHO HAVE ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE*
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Get the person’s attention. Use eye contact.
Speak clearly, in short, direct sentences - use one-step commands.
Be willing to repeat and rephrase.
Don’t use slang.
Keep your tone warm and empathetic.
Ask simple questions.
Show respect and be sensitive to cultural and regional differences.
• Avoid pronouns - use specific words and
names for clarity.
• Write big, clear messages and post them.
• Use your non-verbal skills.
• Praise and encourage the person; show
affection.
• Be Patient! Give the person time to
respond.
*Information from AZURA Memory Care
Jaci Fuller
PUBLIC POLICY & EDUCATION
Oral Chemotherapy Drugs Bill
Cancer patients across the state are rejoicing as a three-year long battle to get insurance
companies to cover oral chemotherapy the same way they cover traditional IBV chemo, is over.
Most insurance companies cover traditional chemotherapy, administered in a hospital or clinic,
as a medical procedure. Oral chemotherapy is covered as a pharmaceutical benefit, making it
much more expensive for patients.
Governor Scott Walker has signed a bill, the Cancer Treatment Fairness Act, into law. It is
designed to lower the cost of chemotherapy drugs in pill form for cancer patients. Gov. Walker
signed the measure Thursday, April 3rd. In one of the most memorable bill-signings in his tenure
as Governor, he was surrounded by hundreds of cancer patients and their doctors who feel the
new law will save many lives.
“It effectively provides parity, so that if someone’s got a health insurance plan that provides
chemotherapy, now going forward, that plan has to provide parity when it comes to providing
it orally,” said Gov. Walker. “It’s a win all the way around.” The Republican-sponsored bill passed
the Legislature with bipartisan support, after initially being kept from a vote by Republican
leaders. The bill was controversial, however, because insurance companies viewed it as a
government mandate on private businesses. Cancer patients and doctors say the law is essential
and the new law will take effect in January, 2015.
2013 Wisconsin Assembly Bill 247
Since late last fall, I've been following Assembly Bill 247 as it pertains to Sacred Heart Hospital
and many other hospitals in the State of Wisconsin. Below is a brief description of the bill:
This bill prohibits any employer, including the state and local governments, from demoting,
suspending, discharging, or otherwise discriminating against an employee or contractor for
refusing to be vaccinated against seasonal influenza. An employee, under the bill, includes any
intern and any volunteer. The bill also prohibits any employer from doing any of the following:
refusing to hire a prospective employee or renew the contract of an employee or contractor
on the basis of vaccination status for seasonal influenza or refusal to be vaccinated against
seasonal influenza; requiring any employee or contractor to receive a vaccination against
seasonal influenza if the employee or contractor declines in writing after receiving certain
information; requiring unvaccinated employees or contractors to wear masks in retaliation
for refusing the influenza vaccination; or requiring employees or contractors in a health
care setting to wear masks in a manner that exceeds a certain requirement. If the employer
requests that any of its employees or contractors be vaccinated against seasonal influenza,
that employer must provide, or arrange for, the vaccination at no cost to those employees or
contractors.
Under the bill, an employer that requests employees or contractors to be vaccinated against
6
seasonal influenza must provide, in
writing, a statement of the risks and
benefits to an individual of receiving
that vaccine and a statement that
the employee or contractor has the
right to refuse the seasonal influenza
vaccine for any reason without risk
of discrimination for that refusal. The
employer must provide the employee
or contract or a reasonable time
to review these statements before
providing or arranging for seasonal
influenza vaccination. An employee
or contractor who has received
these statements may decline the
vaccination, in writing, for any reason
and the employer may not require that
employee or contractor to receive the
vaccination. An employer may provide
the vaccine information statements
about the applicable form of seasonal
influenza vaccine that is created by
the federal Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention and this satisfies the
requirement to provide the statements.
Under the bill, an employer is allowed
to request or require an employee, or
contractor, who is showing symptoms
of seasonal influenza to leave the place
of employment while ill.
Recently, I contacted Dana Wachs’
office for an update on this bill. Dana
Wachs is the 91st Assembly District
representative for Eau Claire. I was
told that public hearings were held in
November and nothing was done with
the bill in the last legislative session
and nothing will be done until the next
session.
Don Winrich, Chair
As the Welcome Chair on the Volunteer Partners Board, Mary
Pengra and I have been privileged to send out “Welcome”
letters to over 40 new volunteers since July of 2013. It has been
an eventful year with an increase in volunteer opportunities
throughout the hospital and the addition of a full time
employee at the Information Desk. This addition has helped
keep those volunteering in that area up to date with the many
changes that occur regularly within the hospital. Volunteers
and Colleagues at the Information Desk often are the first
people that visitors contact at the hospital, so they play a large
role in providing first impressions of Sacred Heart Hospital.
Another important area in the hospital serviced by volunteers
is the Family Waiting Area. Families and visitors waiting while
loved ones are having surgery or are hospitalized in Critical
Care are often stressed. Volunteers in this area also play a
large role in forming these visitors’ impressions of Sacred
Heart Hospital.
There are many such areas in the hospital where volunteers
not only help visitors, patients and colleagues but become the
“face” of Sacred Heart Hospital to those in our community. As
the Welcome Chair of the Volunteer Partners Board, I extend a
special Thank You to all of you for your generous gift of time
and talent at Sacred Heart. You really do make a big difference
and touch many lives during your time at the hospital.
TAG (Tuition Assistance Grant)
Each year the Volunteer Partners of Sacred Heart Hospital donate
monies in the form of scholarships to employees who wish to further
their career goals. These employees must be accepted in an accredited
program as one of the conditions for eligibility. This year scholarships
were awarded to 15 employees. The recipients have thanked us for
our commitment to education, assistance with the financial aspect of
continuing education, and the capability to enhance their skills and be
better employees.
Sylvia Emerson, Chair
The following colleagues received a Tuition Assistance Grant:
Stephanie Ball, Critical Care
Scott Capek, Surgical Services
Jolene Hanzlik, Administration
Jennifer Lubick, Surgical Services
Michelle Moats, Urgent Care
Carly Overgard, Cardiology
Georgette Preston, Lab Services
Jamie Wright, Neuro/Pediatrics
Melanie Butak, Trauma Services
Marcia Danzinger, People Services
Kelsey Knuth, Sterile Processing
Denise McNeeley, ENT Clinic
Tracy Morning, Radiology Services
June Pikulski, Cardiology
Jessica Schuch, Lab Services
Kathy Mosack, Chair
BOARD MEMBERS ELECTED
At the Volunteer Partners annual business meeting on April
15, 2014, the following were elected for the 2014/15 Board
of Directors: Don Winrich – President Elect, Mary Ann
Ogan – Treasurer, Jaci Fuller – Secretary, Steve Lange – 2
year term, Sharon Schug – 3-year term and Dennis Lackey –
3 year term. Congratulations to all!
Sylvia Emerson will be President and Barb Filla will be Past
President for 2014/15. Continuing on the Board will be
Kathy Mosack, Janet Lesniewski and Russ McElroy. Thank
you for your commitment and dedication!
LEAVING THE BOARD
Joan Cook and Mary Theisen will be leaving the Volunteer
Partners Board of Directors at the end of June, 2014. Both
will be missed!
Joan has been an active member for 15 years, the last 8
years as Secretary for the Board. She also was the Reporter
for the Spirit, Friendship Chair and Advance Directives
Seminar Chair in addition to helping with the Love-Light
processing, archives and record retention. In previous years she was
Chair of Membership, Health Education and the Book Sale. Joan served
as President of the Board in 1998 and Past President in 1999. She also has
been active member of the West Central District of the Partners of WHA,
serving as Chair-Elect in 200/2003 and Chair in 2004/2005 (each a two-year
term). She was appointed to serve on the Best of the Best Committee on
the State level in 2012. Joan states, “I have enjoyed every minute of my
volunteering and intend to volunteer as long as I can!”
Mary Theisen has served on the Board for 7 years. In 2010, she was
President Elect, in 2011 as President and Past President in 2012. As
Past President, she served as Parliamentarian, Nominating Committee
Chair and Chair of the Christmas Tea. Mary has served on the following
committees: The Love-Light Project, Jewelry Sale, Uniform/Linens Sale,
No-Bake Sale, Pediatric Health fair, Christmas Tea and delivery of the gift
for the first baby born at Sacred Heart Hospital in the New Year. She also
assisted in giving a gift to each patient on Christmas Eve. Mary states that
she will miss being on the Board but will continue to help when she can.
Joan and Mary, thank you for your many years of service on the Board of
Directors!
7
VOLUNTEER PARTNERS
Board Updates
VOLUNTEER PARTNERS
WELCOME COMMITTEE
continued
HEALTH EDUCATION
TWELVE STEPS TO IMPROVE COMMUNICATION WITH PEOPLE WHO HAVE ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE*
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Get the person’s attention. Use eye contact.
Speak clearly, in short, direct sentences - use one-step commands.
Be willing to repeat and rephrase.
Don’t use slang.
Keep your tone warm and empathetic.
Ask simple questions.
Show respect and be sensitive to cultural and regional differences.
• Avoid pronouns - use specific words and
names for clarity.
• Write big, clear messages and post them.
• Use your non-verbal skills.
• Praise and encourage the person; show
affection.
• Be Patient! Give the person time to
respond.
*Information from AZURA Memory Care
Jaci Fuller
PUBLIC POLICY & EDUCATION
Oral Chemotherapy Drugs Bill
Cancer patients across the state are rejoicing as a three-year long battle to get insurance
companies to cover oral chemotherapy the same way they cover traditional IBV chemo, is over.
Most insurance companies cover traditional chemotherapy, administered in a hospital or clinic,
as a medical procedure. Oral chemotherapy is covered as a pharmaceutical benefit, making it
much more expensive for patients.
Governor Scott Walker has signed a bill, the Cancer Treatment Fairness Act, into law. It is
designed to lower the cost of chemotherapy drugs in pill form for cancer patients. Gov. Walker
signed the measure Thursday, April 3rd. In one of the most memorable bill-signings in his tenure
as Governor, he was surrounded by hundreds of cancer patients and their doctors who feel the
new law will save many lives.
“It effectively provides parity, so that if someone’s got a health insurance plan that provides
chemotherapy, now going forward, that plan has to provide parity when it comes to providing
it orally,” said Gov. Walker. “It’s a win all the way around.” The Republican-sponsored bill passed
the Legislature with bipartisan support, after initially being kept from a vote by Republican
leaders. The bill was controversial, however, because insurance companies viewed it as a
government mandate on private businesses. Cancer patients and doctors say the law is essential
and the new law will take effect in January, 2015.
2013 Wisconsin Assembly Bill 247
Since late last fall, I've been following Assembly Bill 247 as it pertains to Sacred Heart Hospital
and many other hospitals in the State of Wisconsin. Below is a brief description of the bill:
This bill prohibits any employer, including the state and local governments, from demoting,
suspending, discharging, or otherwise discriminating against an employee or contractor for
refusing to be vaccinated against seasonal influenza. An employee, under the bill, includes any
intern and any volunteer. The bill also prohibits any employer from doing any of the following:
refusing to hire a prospective employee or renew the contract of an employee or contractor
on the basis of vaccination status for seasonal influenza or refusal to be vaccinated against
seasonal influenza; requiring any employee or contractor to receive a vaccination against
seasonal influenza if the employee or contractor declines in writing after receiving certain
information; requiring unvaccinated employees or contractors to wear masks in retaliation
for refusing the influenza vaccination; or requiring employees or contractors in a health
care setting to wear masks in a manner that exceeds a certain requirement. If the employer
requests that any of its employees or contractors be vaccinated against seasonal influenza,
that employer must provide, or arrange for, the vaccination at no cost to those employees or
contractors.
Under the bill, an employer that requests employees or contractors to be vaccinated against
6
seasonal influenza must provide, in
writing, a statement of the risks and
benefits to an individual of receiving
that vaccine and a statement that
the employee or contractor has the
right to refuse the seasonal influenza
vaccine for any reason without risk
of discrimination for that refusal. The
employer must provide the employee
or contract or a reasonable time
to review these statements before
providing or arranging for seasonal
influenza vaccination. An employee
or contractor who has received
these statements may decline the
vaccination, in writing, for any reason
and the employer may not require that
employee or contractor to receive the
vaccination. An employer may provide
the vaccine information statements
about the applicable form of seasonal
influenza vaccine that is created by
the federal Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention and this satisfies the
requirement to provide the statements.
Under the bill, an employer is allowed
to request or require an employee, or
contractor, who is showing symptoms
of seasonal influenza to leave the place
of employment while ill.
Recently, I contacted Dana Wachs’
office for an update on this bill. Dana
Wachs is the 91st Assembly District
representative for Eau Claire. I was
told that public hearings were held in
November and nothing was done with
the bill in the last legislative session
and nothing will be done until the next
session.
Don Winrich, Chair
As the Welcome Chair on the Volunteer Partners Board, Mary
Pengra and I have been privileged to send out “Welcome”
letters to over 40 new volunteers since July of 2013. It has been
an eventful year with an increase in volunteer opportunities
throughout the hospital and the addition of a full time
employee at the Information Desk. This addition has helped
keep those volunteering in that area up to date with the many
changes that occur regularly within the hospital. Volunteers
and Colleagues at the Information Desk often are the first
people that visitors contact at the hospital, so they play a large
role in providing first impressions of Sacred Heart Hospital.
Another important area in the hospital serviced by volunteers
is the Family Waiting Area. Families and visitors waiting while
loved ones are having surgery or are hospitalized in Critical
Care are often stressed. Volunteers in this area also play a
large role in forming these visitors’ impressions of Sacred
Heart Hospital.
There are many such areas in the hospital where volunteers
not only help visitors, patients and colleagues but become the
“face” of Sacred Heart Hospital to those in our community. As
the Welcome Chair of the Volunteer Partners Board, I extend a
special Thank You to all of you for your generous gift of time
and talent at Sacred Heart. You really do make a big difference
and touch many lives during your time at the hospital.
TAG (Tuition Assistance Grant)
Each year the Volunteer Partners of Sacred Heart Hospital donate
monies in the form of scholarships to employees who wish to further
their career goals. These employees must be accepted in an accredited
program as one of the conditions for eligibility. This year scholarships
were awarded to 15 employees. The recipients have thanked us for
our commitment to education, assistance with the financial aspect of
continuing education, and the capability to enhance their skills and be
better employees.
Sylvia Emerson, Chair
The following colleagues received a Tuition Assistance Grant:
Stephanie Ball, Critical Care
Scott Capek, Surgical Services
Jolene Hanzlik, Administration
Jennifer Lubick, Surgical Services
Michelle Moats, Urgent Care
Carly Overgard, Cardiology
Georgette Preston, Lab Services
Jamie Wright, Neuro/Pediatrics
Melanie Butak, Trauma Services
Marcia Danzinger, People Services
Kelsey Knuth, Sterile Processing
Denise McNeeley, ENT Clinic
Tracy Morning, Radiology Services
June Pikulski, Cardiology
Jessica Schuch, Lab Services
Kathy Mosack, Chair
BOARD MEMBERS ELECTED
At the Volunteer Partners annual business meeting on April
15, 2014, the following were elected for the 2014/15 Board
of Directors: Don Winrich – President Elect, Mary Ann
Ogan – Treasurer, Jaci Fuller – Secretary, Steve Lange – 2
year term, Sharon Schug – 3-year term and Dennis Lackey –
3 year term. Congratulations to all!
Sylvia Emerson will be President and Barb Filla will be Past
President for 2014/15. Continuing on the Board will be
Kathy Mosack, Janet Lesniewski and Russ McElroy. Thank
you for your commitment and dedication!
LEAVING THE BOARD
Joan Cook and Mary Theisen will be leaving the Volunteer
Partners Board of Directors at the end of June, 2014. Both
will be missed!
Joan has been an active member for 15 years, the last 8
years as Secretary for the Board. She also was the Reporter
for the Spirit, Friendship Chair and Advance Directives
Seminar Chair in addition to helping with the Love-Light
processing, archives and record retention. In previous years she was
Chair of Membership, Health Education and the Book Sale. Joan served
as President of the Board in 1998 and Past President in 1999. She also has
been active member of the West Central District of the Partners of WHA,
serving as Chair-Elect in 200/2003 and Chair in 2004/2005 (each a two-year
term). She was appointed to serve on the Best of the Best Committee on
the State level in 2012. Joan states, “I have enjoyed every minute of my
volunteering and intend to volunteer as long as I can!”
Mary Theisen has served on the Board for 7 years. In 2010, she was
President Elect, in 2011 as President and Past President in 2012. As
Past President, she served as Parliamentarian, Nominating Committee
Chair and Chair of the Christmas Tea. Mary has served on the following
committees: The Love-Light Project, Jewelry Sale, Uniform/Linens Sale,
No-Bake Sale, Pediatric Health fair, Christmas Tea and delivery of the gift
for the first baby born at Sacred Heart Hospital in the New Year. She also
assisted in giving a gift to each patient on Christmas Eve. Mary states that
she will miss being on the Board but will continue to help when she can.
Joan and Mary, thank you for your many years of service on the Board of
Directors!
7
VOLUNTEER PARTNERS
VOLUNTEER PARTNERS
Gift Shop News
Now more than ever, people are conscious of buying
local and staying away from chain stores. Buying local is
frequently touted because this simple act makes your dollar
stretch further into the local economy while supporting your
neighbors and keeping jobs in the area. My favorite example
of this is the Farmer’s Market located at Phoenix Park from
May through October. No matter what the weather (warm,
hot or cold) I enjoy seeing the beautiful display of fruits and
vegetables. There is a great sense of camaraderie as people
exchange smiles and laughter while they shop. Barstow
Street also offers some unique local shopping (when I’m not
using payroll deduction in the Gift Shop!) if I’m looking for
something special.
People often think of local shopping as only pertaining to
food, but it certainly does include shopping at the Gift Shop
in Sacred Heart Hospital.
Dollars spent in the Gift Shop go directly back to the hospital
for buying much needed and updated equipment. Everyone
who shops at the Gift Shop, volunteers, colleagues and the
Report from Friends
customers who come in from the community and surrounding areas, are
putting dollars towards the hospital. It is important to be aware of where
you spend each and every dollar.
As for volunteers, I am so appreciative of those who work in the Gift Shop,
generously giving time and helping me out in a pinch when there are open
shifts to fill, often at a moment’s notice. Not only the Gift Shop volunteers,
but I also appreciate how all the hospital’s volunteers support the shop by
purchasing birthday, holiday, and every day gifts, coming in before or after
their shifts. Thank you!
Remember, during your birthday month, if you shop at the Gift Shop, you
can get a 10% birthday discount, excluding stamps, movie tickets, candy
and flowers. Tell the volunteer when you’re checking out it’s your birthday
month to receive your discount. The Gift Shop offers many beautiful and
fun items.
Jennifer Stuber
Gift Shop Manager
For Your Information
May is a busy, busy time in the Friends Office. We celebrate the annual Monsignor Klimek Healing Presence
Lecture Series, host our annual Caritas Guild Dinner, and our annual Donor Open House. Whew! It’s a whirlwind,
but always so exhilarating to be with our colleagues, volunteers, donors, and community members. Our
wonderful mission attracts wonderful people.
As volunteers in the hospital you may be well aware that each year in February we hold our annual Colleague
Giving Campaign. Thanks to my colleague, Monica Herman, and her fantastic Committee, the campaign is full
of fun and enthusiasm. This year we hit another all-time record total with more than $105,000 raised for hospital programs and services.
Wow! Our colleagues never cease to amaze us.
One of the very special funds that the colleague campaign benefits is our Colleague Emergency Assistance Fund. Over the past three years,
37 grants totaling more than $18,000 have been given to help hospital colleagues during a time of need. It may be an accident, a health
issue or a family emergency that causes financial strain. A gift of up to $500 may not resolve the problem, but hopefully it eases the stress
and lets them know they are cared for and not alone.
I so enjoyed spending some time at the Volunteer Open House in April. The displays showing your history and highlighting your projects
were impressive. You have so much to be proud of. It warmed my heart to have several of you express that you often hear from Hospital
colleagues how appreciative we are of your work. You play a valuable role in the life of our ministry, and we are grateful for all you do.
Blessings!
Ann Kaiser, Director of Development
Friends of Sacred Heart Hospital
Board Updates
HOW TO LIVE TO BE 100
MEMORY LOSS – 7 TIPS TO IMPROVE YOUR MEMORY
Concerned about memory loss? Although there are no
guarantees when it comes to preventing memory loss or
dementia, memory tricks can be helpful. Consider seven simple
ways to sharpen your memory.
Your genes have a lot to do with your life span, but doctors agree that you can make a big dent in your risk of chronic disease by doing 12
simple things.
1. Stop Smoking. Four years after doing so, your chance of having a heart attack falls to that of someone who has never smoked. After ten
years, your lung cancer risk drops to nearly that of a nonsmoker.
2. Exercise daily. Thirty minutes of activity is all that’s necessary or three ten-minute walks.
3. Eat five servings of produce daily that would be fruits and vegetables.
4. Get screened. No need to go test-crazy; just get the health screenings recommended for your stage of life. Check with your doctor to make
sure you’re up-to-date.
5. Get plenty of sleep. For most adults, that means seven to eight hours every night. If you have a tough time turning off the light, remember
that sleep deprivation raises the risk of heart disease cancer and more.
6. Ask your doctor about low-dose aspirin. Heart attack, stroke, even cancer - a single 81 mg tablet per day may fight them all. Aspirin comes
with risks, so don’t start on your own.
7. Know your blood pressure. It’s not called the silent killer just for the drama. Keep yours under 120/80.
8. Stay connected. Loneliness is another form of stress. Friends, family and furry pets supply “vitamin F.”
9. Cut back on saturated fat. It’s the raw material your body uses for producing LDL, bad cholesterol.
10. Get help for depression. It doesn’t just feel bad; it does bad things to your body. In fact, when tacked on to diabetes and heart disease it
increases risk of early death by as much as 30 percent.
11. Manage stress. Doctors surveyed say that living with uncontrolled stress is more destructive to your health than being 30 pounds over
weight.
12. Have a higher purpose. “Strive to achieve something bigger than yourself.” By giving back you give to yourself.
• Stay mentally active. Just as physical activity helps keep your
body in shape, mentally stimulated activities help keep your
brain in shape.
• Socialize regularly. Social interaction helps ward off
depression and stress, both of which can continue to memory
loss.
• Get organized. You’re more likely to forget things if your
home is cluttered and your notes are in disarray.
• Focus. Limit distractions and don’t try to do too many things
at once.
• Eat a healthy diet. A heart-healthy diet that may be good for
your brain as it is for your heart.
• Include a physical activity in your daily routine. Physical
activity increases blood flow to your whole body, including
your brain.
• Manage chronic conditions. Follow your doctor’s treatment
recommendations for any chronic conditions, such as
diabetes, high blood pressure and depression.
A TIME TO REMEMBER
We wish to extend our sincere and heartfelt sympathy to the
families and friends of the following volunteers, who will be
honored in the TAG (Tuition Assistance Grant) Program: Joan
Hartkemeyer, Beth Rolland, Larry Hagens, Robert Teske and Angela
Lindner.
Our sincere and heartfelt sympathy to Theresa Spletstoser and
Judy Teske, Sacred Heart Hospital volunteers, and to Sue Lynch,
State President of the Partners of WHA, on the death of a family
member.
Joan Cook, Friendship Chair
Jaci Fuller
Source: Reader’s Digest
8
5
VOLUNTEER PARTNERS
Directly Speaking…
On April 15 we held our first annual Volunteer Open House. The new format was designed to encourage greater
attendance with volunteers, their friends, and families and with our hospital colleagues. From the feedback
received, people enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere, short program and company of other volunteers as well as staff.
The following was offered:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
A “step back in time” volunteer history table (we celebrate 75 years as a program this year) – some of the pictures were amazing!
A sign up table for volunteers and staff alike to receive our volunteer newsletter via email.
A handcrafter’s table showcasing various projects – get involved with any and all ongoing projects.
Volunteer Partners Board of Directors members available to discuss their role in our hospital and volunteer program.
Door prize drawings - four gift certificates of $25 each to the hospital’s Trinkets & Treasures gift shop.
Pet Therapy – Bonnie Wright and her furry family, Siri & Jazzy Wright, were on hand to supply plenty of love and friendship!
PowerPoint of volunteer anniversary recognition, colleague comments, and volunteer program activities pictures.
Tasty refreshments.
If you couldn’t attend this year, we hope to see you at next year’s open house. While we set aside a particular day each year to officially
celebrate volunteers, it is important to know we honor, recognize and appreciate our volunteers every day of the year.
Herman Melville, American novelist/poet/writer once said, “We cannot live only for ourselves. A thousand fibers connect us with our fellow
men.” What a wonderful quote. Thank you all for being the fiber in our lives and that of our patients and beyond! The connections we
make with one another and for others are invaluable.
May happiness touch your life today as warmly as you have touched the lives of others. -- Rebecca Forsythe
With Gratitude,
Mary Pengra, Director
Volunteer Services
To Be a Volunteer
Generosity – a willingness to give your time to others.
PARTNERS HOST DISTRICT MEETING
Past Events
ANNUAL ADVOCACY DAY
The Wisconsin Hospital Association’s Advocacy day, held on April 16, 2014
in Madison, is an annual legislative event designed to inspire and educate
health care colleagues, volunteers and others on health-related issues
and grassroots advocacy opportunities. Volunteer Partners from Sacred
Heart Hospital, Jaci Fuller and Barb Filla, joined over 800 hospital leaders,
employees, trustees and other volunteers for the day.
Ed Harding, WHA 2014 Chair, welcomed attendees, followed by Bonnie
Olson, President Elect of the Partners of WHA who led the group in the
Pledge of Allegiance to the flag. The keynote speaker was Larry J, Sabato,
Professor of Politics and Director of Center for Politics for the University
of Virginia, who spoke on “Looking into the Political Crystal Ball.” A State
Legislative Panel then provided information on health care issues.
Governor Scott Walker addressed the group at the luncheon, followed
by the 2014 State Legislative Issues Update by Eric Borgerding, WHA
Executive Vice President. The Health Care Advocate Award and Advocacy
All-Star Award were given and the group then traveled to the State
Capital to meet with their legislators. Participants from Sacred Heart
Hospital and St. Joseph’s Hospital also attended a reception to learn more
about the Hospital Sisters Health Systems healing ministry and efforts to
improve the quality and efficiency of heath care services.
UNIFORM/LINENS SALE A SUCCESS!
The Uniform/Linens Sale on February
25 and 26, 2014, held in the community
auditorium, provided a huge selection
of tops, slacks, shoes and accessories
plus quality sheet sets, comforters and
throws. The Volunteer Partners received
15% of sales for PRN Uniforms and 20%
of sales for 40 Winks & More Linens, for a profit of $1,441, which will
go towards hospital needs and equipment. Drawings provided by the
vendor included two $25 gift certificates on February 25 and two throw
blankets on February 26.
Understanding – because their lives might be very different from your own.
Empathy – an ability to put yourself in someone else’s shoes and feel what they must feel.
Compassion – to truly care about making someone else’s life better.
Patience – because the process doesn’t always go as smoothly as it might.
Dedication – to stick with the project and see it through.
Volunteers show these qualities and so much more, so….
Thank you for all that you do!
A Big Thank you to the following volunteers who donated their time
and talent to assist at the sale: Donna Hoffmann, Steven Lange, Marie
Thorson, Janet Lesniewski, Kathleen Mosack, Sharon Schug and Kathy
Ruscin. Your commitment is greatly appreciated!
VOLUNTEERS ARE DEDICATED TO PATIENTS
Prior to ending the Spring West Central District meeting, Director of
Volunteer Services Mary Pengra announced the table floral arrangements
would be taken to patients in the hospital. The winners of the drawings
for the three head table floral arrangements then graciously donated
their flowers to be given to patients.
Joan Cook, Secretary
4
9
The Volunteer Partners of Sacred Heart Hospital hosted
the Partners of WHA (Wisconsin Hospital Association)
West Central District meeting on April 1, 2014, in the
community auditorium. Attending were 73 volunteers
from 9 area hospitals*. Barb Filla, Volunteer Partners
President and Julie Manas, Sacred Heart CEO, welcomed
the group, followed by Philip Anderson, Director for
Spiritual Care, who provided the prayer. Don Winrich,
Public Policy and Education Chair, led the group in
the Pledge of Allegiance. The morning program “How
to Improve Communication with People who have
Alzheimer’s” was presented by Paula Gibson, Azura
Memory Care, Eau Claire.
Following the program, Carolyn Ward, West Central
District Chair, introduced the State officers, who gave
reports and the district business meeting was then
held. Afternoon discussion groups, led by Volunteer
Partners Board members, studied the concept of servant
leadership, covering different aspects of the Volunteer
Partners. Facilitating the meeting by greeting, seating
and serving were the following volunteers: Elizabeth
Moos, Phyllis Pecor, Margaret Berg, Marion Olson,
Donna Hoffmann, Steve Lange, Pat Everhart, Sharron
Greene and Rita Brunner.
Sacred Heart Hospital Volunteer Bonnie Olson will be
installed as State President of Partners of WHA at the
State Convention in October. Barb Filla will serve as
District Public Policy Education Chair of West Central
District and Sylvia Emerson has been appointed to
serve on the State Partners of WHA WAVE Committee.
Congratulations to Bonnie, Barb and Sylvia!
Joan Cook, Secretary
*Members of the West Central District of the Volunteer
Partners of WHA (Wisconsin Hospital Association)
include:
Amery Regional Medical Center - Amery; St. Joseph’s
Hospital - Chippewa Falls; Cumberland Memorial
Hospital - Cumberland; Sacred Heart Hospital - Eau
Claire; Mayo Clinic Health System - Menomonie;
Osceola Medical Center - Osceola; Lakeview Medical
Center - Rice Lake; River Falls Area Hospital - River Falls;
St. Croix Regional Medical Center - St. Croix Falls; Our
Lady of Victory Hospital -Stanley.
VOLUNTEER PARTNERS
VOLUNTEER PARTNERS
NATIONAL VOLUNTEER MONTH CELEBRATED!
April was National Volunteer Month, and April 5 - 12, 2014 was National
Volunteer Week. In 1974 President Nixon signed an Executive Order
establishing the week as an annual celebration of volunteering and
since then, every U. S. president has signed a proclamation promoting
National Volunteer Week. This year marked the 40th anniversary of
National Volunteer Week.
To celebrate National Volunteer Month, Sacred Heart Hospital
Volunteer Services Department and the Administration held an
Open House on April 15, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in the Hospital
auditorium to honor and recognize the volunteers for their dedication,
compassion and kindness to patients, visitors and staff. Faye Deich,
COO, welcomed the group and gave an Administrative update. Julie
Manas, CEO, also addressed and thanked the volunteers. Volunteers
with milestone years were recognized, and the Volunteer Partners
annual business meeting with election and installation of board
members and officers for 2014/15 was held.
Upcoming Events
ADVANCE DIRECTIVES SEMINAR
Volunteer Partners will host their fourth annual Community
Advance Directives Seminar on Monday, June 2 from 6 - 7:30 pm
in the Community Auditorium. An Advance Directive is a Power
of Attorney for Health Care. It assures individuals that their
voices are heard, even if they cannot communicate with their
doctors because of an illness or accident. Everyone over 18
should have the document. Philip Anderson, Director, Center
for Spiritual Care, will explain the form and lead participants
in filling it out. Volunteer Partners will assist and witness
signatures.
What’s been going on in 2014?
It has been busy and productive, because of your help and work! In all the volunteer endeavors and especially
the core volunteer areas: Information Desk, Family Waiting Center, Transportation and Gift Shop. A HUGE
“THANK YOU” to the exceptionally dedicated volunteers for working to cover shifts for people with illnesses,
surgeries, snowbirds and more.
Where are we going?
Mary Pengra, Volunteer Services Director, and we volunteers work to serve SHH mission and meet the rapidly
occurring healthcare challenges already here and coming. Our work throughout the hospital is in continual
view of patients and their families, visitors, the general public, as well as behind-the-scenes clerical and support areas.
The free program is open to the entire community. You are
encouraged to bring your friends and family. Please bring the
names, addresses, and phone numbers of those you wish to
name as your health care agents. Registration information will
be available soon.
Our volunteer services are necessary and valuable to complement that of the hospital professionals and departments. YOU are the smiling,
welcoming, helping faces visible throughout the hospital. You provide warm, friendly hospitality to patient’s families, visitors as well as
some certain, specific patient needs.
Joan Cook, Chair
We have begun and need to work diligently to grow the volunteer team larger so that all volunteers have more opportunity for greater
flexibility in their personal and volunteer lives. We welcome and encourage a diverse group of women and men of all ages of adults to join
us meet the needs of SHH to fulfill its mission and succeed.
TO OUR VOLUNTEERS
Thank you for your thoughtfulness and smile
You bring to every face,
With each moment of service you give
The world becomes a better place.
Your commitment and dedication makes
You really stand out.
We’re grateful to have you here.
You’re what volunteering is all about!
A note from your President
PIE AND ICE CREAM SOCIAL
The popular Volunteer Partners’ Pie & Ice Cream Social is
scheduled for June 17, 2014 starting at 11:00 a.m. and continuing
until the pies are gone! The social will be held in Bishop/Treacy
Halls. There will be approximately
18 varieties of pies, along with
ice cream so bring your appetite
(and forget the calories!) Proceeds
from this event help support the
Tuition Assistance Grant Program.
Mark your calendars and hope to
see you there!
(Author unknown)
PEDIATRIC HEALTH FAIR SUCCESSFUL
The Pediatric Health Fair organized by the Center for Healthy Living
and held April 9 at the Sports Center was a great success. It was a oneday event for all second graders in the area, and many volunteers were
needed to help. There were 18 adult volunteers and 21 Memorial High
School student volunteers who helped make the event successful.
Many community presenters as well as colleagues from Sacred Heart
Hospital participated. The emphasis was on healthy llfe styles. The
feedback from the children and teachers was very positive and this
format and venue will be used again next year. The pictures created
by the children representing the lesson they learned during the day
were wonderful.
A sincere thank you goes out to all the volunteers who helped at the
event. A special thank you to Margaret Berg who graciously took the
leadership role in organizing and overseeing the volunteers on April 9
and to Barb Filla who assisted her during the afternoon.
Kathy Mosack, Chair
10
VOLUNTEER PARTNERS TO CELEBRATE 75 YEARS!
The Volunteer Partners of Sacred Heart Hospital will celebrate
their 75th anniversary this fall. On November 1, 1939, fifteen
women met to organize the volunteer group, with an original
statement of purpose: “To render service, and work for the
Hospital as a nonsectarian organization.” Their motto was
“Volunteers caring for patient, family, hospital and community
through services and dedication.” When the Guild was
organized, the annual dues were $1.00 and the women formed a
volunteer committee to sew linens, make bed sheets, baby shirts,
towels, diapers, aprons and other items required for the hospital
supply room.
The name of the organization was changed in 1963 from The
Guild to the Sacred Heart Auxiliary. In 1964, the Auxiliary
celebrated its 25th anniversary in the new hospital. The name
of the Auxiliary was changed to “Partners” in 1996 and in 1998
changed to Volunteer/Partners. Later it became Volunteer
Partners.
More information will be coming regarding the 75th anniversary!
One example of the value we provide: Many families and visitors who come to the Family Waiting Center speak of getting up very early
in the day, traveling long distances to get to SHH. On one particular day, there were people from Winter, Ladysmith, Baldwin, Amery and
the Twin Cities. Volunteer hospitality, work and services are critical to the outcome and results for these visitors, the patients and SHH.
Our reward: Seeing smiles on the faces of the guests and hearing their grateful “thank you.” We experience that precious, inner feeling of
personal joy and satisfaction in giving from our heart to help make someone’s day better!
Our invitation and challenge to you!
Would you be willing to share your personal feelings and experiences of joy and satisfaction with other people? And ask them if they
would consider joining the Volunteer Partners of SHH? Ask them to call Mary Pengra for more information.
The challenge to you: Reach out to bring in just one new volunteer member from amongst your friends, family, acquaintances and others
you know or meet. Share with them the joy and satisfaction you receive from serving, along with some benefits of being a volunteer. That
would double our membership!
“Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring,
all of which have the potential to turn a life around.” ~Leo Buscaglia
Barb Filla, President
Volunteer Partners
NEWSLETTER NEWSFLASH!
We will now be able to send the Volunteer Partners Newsletter electronically, which will save the cost of printing and
mailing the printed copy - a significant savings. Please let us know if we can send you the newsletter electronically
by contacting Jaci Fuller at [email protected] or calling the Volunteer Services Office at 715-717-4255. This is yet
another way in which to contain rising healthcare costs. Help us make a difference!
3
VOLUNTEER PARTNERS
VOLUNTEER PARTNERS
Message from Administration
NEW VOLUNTEERS — WELCOME!
Dear Volunteer Partners,
A few years ago, there was a wonderful article in Newsweek about an author who was trying to come up with ideas for
a new book. After much contemplation, she finally decided to have her heroine be a hospital volunteer. The novelist
asked the volunteer coordinator at her local hospital if she could observe a volunteer for a few hours, just to get an
idea of what they did. The coordinator said no, she couldn’t do that, but if she wanted to become an actual volunteer,
that would be great.
The novelist wasn’t sure about this turn of events because, as she noted, “I wasn’t wild about being in close proximity
to people with germs. And weren’t hospital volunteers either teenage candy stripers or retired seniors? I was neither.”
But she finally acquiesced. The novelist’s impression of volunteerism changed over the course of just a few weeks. She wrote:
Initially, my focus was on my novel. And then a funny thing happened: I stopped researching and starting realizing that I might actually be
making a difference in people’s lives. A woman who’d just been diagnosed with stage four lung cancer thanked me for brushing her hair and
applying her lipstick. A kid who’d been rendered a paraplegic after a gunshot wound told me that the issues of Sports Illustrated I brought him
were the high point of each week. A man who was wasting away from AIDS deemed me his “angel” simply because I took twenty minutes to
transcribe the letter he dictated to his mother.
I began to look forward to my shifts and to resent the hours I spent at the computer. My priorities were changing. I was changing. I felt
appreciated at the hospital and grateful that I’d been given the opportunity to provide any sort of comfort and support to those with medical
problems. Friends would ask, “Isn’t it depressing at that place?” “On the contrary,” I’d say, and I meant it.
What a beautiful expression of what volunteering is all about! Every single day you come to Sacred Heart Hospital, you make a difference – in the
lives of our patients, their families, our hospital colleagues, and our physicians. Your faithful presence brings cheer and gentle assistance to so
many in need. You help make Sacred Heart a place of healing, comfort and hope.
On behalf of the Hospital Sisters, the Administration, and the Board of Directors, please accept our deepest gratitude for your dedicated service
to Sacred Heart Hospital as a Volunteer Partner. You are an integral part of our healthcare team, and your many hours of service ensure that the
Hospital Sisters’ Mission will continue for generations to come.
Sincerely,
Julie Manas
President and CEO, Sacred Heart Hospital
If I can stop one heart from breaking,
I shall not live in vain;
If I can ease one life the aching,
Or cool one pain,
Or help one fainting robin
Unto his nest again,
I shall not live in vain.
~Emily Dickinson
2
Adults Mary Ryberg
Judy
Ayer
Elizabeth Schafer
Jim Culbert
Paul Stark
Rose Gillitzer
Sharon Stearns
Rose Manzella
Pam Weiland
(returning)
Schuster
Jennifer Reetz
Mary Ann Zmuda
Deb Ridenour
HANDCRAFTERS
CollegeHigh School
Joan Everson
Stephanie Born
Lucy Wang
Barb Medford
Bethani Danielski
Sandy Sagert
Hannah Gilbert
Martha Spangler
Kelsey Holmquist
Ji Hyun (Stephanie) Kim
Jenna Knoche
Brogan Resch
Caleb Schuster
DATES TO REMEMBER
Date
Event
Location
May 19, 2014
Board of Directors meeting
TBA
June 2, 2014
Advance Directives Seminar
Community Auditorium
June 17, 2014
Pie & Ice Cream Social
Bishop/Treacy Hall
June 23, 2014
Board of Directors meeting
TBA
Volunteer Services and Gift Shop will be closed:
Memorial Day (5/26), Independence Day (7/4) and Labor Day (9/1)
Time
9 a.m.
6 – 7:30 p.m.
11 a.m.
9 a.m.
Spotlight on Volunteers
In this issue, the spotlight is on four
volunteers who have volunteered for 20
and 25 years at Sacred Heart Hospital Wow!
Barb Gordon volunteers in the Family
Waiting Center and has for 25 years!
She lived in Eau Claire until moving
to Altoona when she entered 7th
grade. Following graduation, Barb was
employed in Eau Claire until she was
diagnosed with cancer and could not
work. While receiving treatment at
Sacred Heart Hospital, she heard about
the volunteer program and decided to try
it. Barb enjoys volunteering in the Family
Waiting Center and states, “It feels really
good to help people!”
Margaret Berg has volunteered in
Transport for 20 years, following her
retirement as a surgical and recovery
room nurse at Sacred Heart. Margaret
grew up in Chippewa Falls and
attended nursing school at St. John’s in
Springfield. She then began her nursing
career at St. Joseph’s Hospital before
transferring to Sacred Heart Hospital.
When Margaret retired, she wanted to
give back to the hospital as it was so
good and helpful to her, and she also
wanted to help people. She plans to
continue to volunteer as she feels she
still has something yet to do in life!
Owen Moyer began volunteering at
the Gift shop and Information Desk at
Sacred Heart in 1994 after he retired.
He wanted to help people, provide a
service, and do something to occupy
his time. Owen grew up in Madison
and was a social studies teacher in
Hayward before becoming the Director
of Instruction in Education for the
Delevan-Darien School District. When
he retired, he and his wife moved to
11
Eau Claire. After 20 years, Owen still
volunteers at the Information Desk
and feels his volunteering at Sacred
Heart is a very rewarding and worthwhile experience.
Judy LaFave remembers 20 years
ago, when she started volunteering
at Sacred Heart Hospital. The Family
Waiting Center was two rooms, one for
surgical and one for critical care when
she began. She also volunteered at
the Information Desk for awhile. Judy
lived in Antigo and moved to Eau Claire
after she was married. She taught
elementary school in Augusta and was
principal at St Mary’s Catholic school
for 5 years before retiring. Judy enjoys
volunteering and is fond of Sacred
Heart Hospital.
Congratulations on a combined total
of 85 years of volunteering!
(Continued on back page)
S A C R E D
Non-Profit Org.
U.S. Postage
PAID
Permit No. 105
Eau Claire, WI
54701
900 West Clairemont Ave.
Eau Claire, WI 54701
The Volunteer Partners’
newsletter is published three
times a year to communicate
information of interest and
usefulness to volunteers and
friends. We welcome all suggestions and comments. You
may contact me at 715-2253978 or e-mail me at [email protected]
ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
Jaci Fuller, Volunteer Partners
Newsletter Coordinator.
Spotlight on Volunteers
H E A R T
H O S P I T A L
VOLUNTEER
Partners
May 2014
A special Thank You
to all volunteers for making Sacred Heart Hospital a place of healing, comfort,
and hope. Congratulations to all the volunteers on their milestone years
volunteering at Sacred Heart. Twenty-four volunteers were honored at the
Volunteer Open House Celebration held on April 15 in the Community Auditorium
for their volunteer milestone years.
continued
VOLUNTEERS HONORED
Congratulations to the volunteers with 5 years of service:
25 years – Barb Gordon
20 years – Judy LaFave
10 years – Mary Theisen
20 years – Margaret Berg
10 years-Beverly Seibel
10 years – Steve Werner
Volunteer Partners
Mission Statement
In partnership with
Sacred Heart Hospital,
the Volunteer Partners will
provide compassionate,
supportive services for
patients, their families
and Hospital staff;
promote community
awareness of the
Hospital's mission;
and raise funds for
continued on back page
Hospital needs.
Top Row: Mary Burt, Kathy Herfel, Barb Filla, Rosemary Kovar, Kaye Peterson, Marge Gharrity Second Row: Cynthia Shampine, Barb Teasdale,
Marian Olson, Deb Stanke, Judy St. Arnault, Barbara Schumacher Third Row: Olga Wise, David Hartmann, Judi Teske, Cathy Vanderheiden
20 years - Owen Moyer
10 years - Ashley Stuber