New cath path - UPMC Altoona

winter 2010
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2 0 0 9 ann u a l r e p o r t an d d o n o r
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Q&Az z
New approach
Program
An option
planner
Separating
for chest
Pullout
sleep myth
aneurysms
calendar
from fact
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inside
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New
cath
path
Woman
benefits from
through-the-wrist
procedure
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Health News
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for Healthy
Living
winter 2010
Program Alert! Good Fats, Bad Fats: Do You Know the Difference? See calendar insert for details, date and time
Healthy
Living
Altoona Regional’s Healthy Living Magazine is published
four times a year by
the Marketing and
Communications
department.
Chief Operating Officer
Ronald J. McConnell
Administrative Director,
Institutional Development
Dave Cuzzolina
Staff Writers
Patt Keith
Anne Stoltz
Designer
Chip Mock
Mock Creations LLC
For more information, please contact:
Altoona Regional Health System
Marketing and Communications
620 Howard Ave.
Altoona, PA 16601-4804
889.2271
[email protected]
If you are not receiving
Healthy Living Magazine in
the mail and would like to,
you need to join the
Healthy Living Club.
It’s free, and the
magazine is just one of
the many benefits!
Join online at
www.altoonaregional.org
or call 889.2630 or
1.888.313.4665.
Unlocking the
yogurt mystery
Cruise down the yogurt aisle
in any grocery store and you
will surely notice the sea of
options for this creamy and
delicious dairy product.
the nutritional label. Don’t
just look at one factor and
ignore the rest.”
“Those are the sugars
you want, as well as sugar
from fruit. Try to avoid high
Connie advises paying extra fructose corn syrup and
other added sugars.”
attention to fat, calcium,
protein and sugar content. Also, remember the sugar
content will be higher
Fat: 4 grams or less
when looking at fruitLow-fat and fat-free yogurts
flavored yogurt. It’s best to
are the best choices for
buy plain yogurt and add
most. Greek-style yogurt
fresh fruits as a topping.
is a great alternative for
people who want the
What about probiotics?
creaminess of full-fat yogurt Connie said yogurt is
but fewer calories and fat
becoming most notable for
grams.
“good for you” ingredients
that provide added
Calcium: 20 percent of
benefits, like probiotics.
your daily value (about
Probiotics are the “good”
200 milligrams)
bacteria, or live, active
Calcium is a crucial mineral
cultures that research
for the body, especially
suggests can play a role in
for children. Combined
enhancing digestive health.
with phosphorus, it gives
To help you identify yogurt
strength and firmness to
that contains live, active
bones.
cultures, the National
Protein: At least 5 grams Yogurt Association
Protein is essential for
developed the Live Active
immune systems, as well as Culture Seal. According
for every chemical reaction to the Food and Drug
in the body. Greek-style
Administration, in order
yogurt, in particular, is an
for something to be
excellent source of protein. called “yogurt” it must
contain at least two active
Sugar: Don’t go too far
cultures, specifically
over 12 grams
Lactobacillus bulgaricus
“Yogurt has naturally
and Streptococcus
occurring sugar from the
thermophilus in the milk,” explained Connie.
United States.
With its many healthful
benefits — calcium,
probiotics, protein, to name
a few — yogurt finds itself
on many people’s daily
menu. But as Altoona
Regional registered dietitian
Connie Plowman explains,
not all yogurts are the same,
or therefore, healthy.
“There are a number of
varieties that are filled with
excess fat, calories and
sugar,” she said. “People
generally have their favorite
brand or buy whatever
is cheapest. With the
explosion of new products,
choosing the right yogurt —
or the healthiest yogurt —
can be challenging.”
Portion control
So how do you pick the
best yogurt for your body?
Start by purchasing yogurt
in portion-controlled
containers, ideally 6-ounce
servings.
“You should reach for yogurt
with 90 to 120 calories per
serving,” Connie said. “Then
be sure to study the rest of
Make room for yogurt
Here are some creative ways Connie shares to add yogurt to your daily diet:
• Replace mayonnaise and salad dressing with yogurt
• Substitute yogurt for ice cream
• Use yogurt as the base for your favorite dips for vegetables and fruits
• Try yogurt in your favorite baking recipes
2
“All yogurts will have the
aforementioned probiotics,”
Connie explained, “so you
can reap the benefits of live
active cultures no matter
what the brand.”
Bottom line: Yogurt is a very
versatile food! With so many
choices, Connie believes
everyone can find a yogurt
that’s not only perfect for
their taste, but also right for
their body.
“Remember to look at the
nutrition facts on the yogurt’s
label,” she stressed. “Yogurt
can definitely be considered
a health food if you choose
the right kind.”
Connie
Plowman,
R.D.
Choosing the
healthiest kind
can be challenging
Program Alert! Paths to a Tobacco-Free Future See calendar insert for details, date and time
About TAA
options
E x p a n d e d
New procedure adds treatment
alternative for aneurysms in chest
With the new year comes yet another remarkable
advancement in technology at Altoona Regional.
‘Phenomenal progress’
“This is phenomenal progress,” said Arthur J. DeMarsico,
medical director of Altoona Regional’s Central
Pennsylvania Cardiovascular Associates, when describing
the arrival of TEVAR technology.
Soon, a comprehensive team of physicians will unveil
a new procedure that makes treatment easier for some
patients with a dangerous condition: thoracic aortic
aneurysm, or TAA.
In addition to thoracic aortic aneurysm repair, Dr. DeMarsico said TEVAR can be used for aortic
dissection (a tear in the wall of the aorta) and penetrating
atherosclerotic ulcers (ulcerating lesion), as well as
a minimally invasive option to treat traumatic aortic
transaction (an injury often associated with car accidents)
in trauma patients.
A TAA is a blood-filled bulge or ballooning of the aorta in
your chest area. Some aneurysms never burst, but others
can rupture quickly in your chest or abdomen. Because
the aorta is a major vessel, carrying blood away from your
heart to the lower part of your body, this is an emergency
situation that could result in death.
Altoona Regional already offers a less invasive way to treat
aortic aneurysms in the abdomen. Now, a similar approach
will be used to treat the problem in the chest. It’s called
thoracic endovascular aneurysm repair, or TEVAR.
“Now, we can treat the entire aorta, rather than just in the abdomen,” he added. “We have expanded our
capability for the benefit of our patients.”
For more information on TEVAR,
call Altoona Regional’s Central Pennsylvania
Cardiovascular Associates at 889.2005.
Minimally invasive therapy
“For patients who are older or who have very high-risk
conditions, this gives them an option,” said Philip L. Rice,
M.D. “Anymore, for most procedures, patients tend to want
a minimally invasive option rather than large-scale surgery.”
“Now, we
can treat
the entire
aorta …”
Instead of surgically opening the aorta, the surgeon makes
small incisions in the groin to insert catheters. Using X-ray
guidance, he or she then delivers a synthetic fabric tube
called a “stent-graft” into the aneurysm.
“The stent-graft expands like a spring to fit against the
walls of the aorta,” explained Richard A. Wertz, M.D.,
medical director, Imaging Services. “Once in place, blood
flows through the stent-graft, avoiding the aneurysm, thus
reducing pressure on the weakened part of the aorta and
reducing the risk of rupture.”
TEVAR is generally less painful and has a lower risk
of complications than traditional surgery because the
incisions are smaller, said Dr. Rice. Patients who have the new treatment usually have a two- to four-day hospital stay compared to a week to 10 days for standard surgical treatment.
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An estimated 60,000 U.S.
residents have a thoracic
(chest) aortic aneurysm but
only about half experience
symptoms and are diagnosed.
More common among
smokers, the condition often
results from hardening of
the arteries, hypertension or
congenital disorders such as
Marfan’s syndrome. Preventive
measures include smoking
cessation, controlling blood
pressure and blood lipid levels,
and routine exercise.
TEVAR
specialists
on staff at
Altoona
Regional
Arthur J. DeMarsico, D.O.,
is a board-certified vascular
surgeon with Cardiothoracic
& Vascular Surgery of
Altoona Inc., 620 Howard
Ave., Altoona, 889.2328.
Richard A. Wertz, M.D.,
is a board-certified
interventional radiologist
with Sylvan Radiology,
620 Howard Ave., Altoona,
889.2836.
Philip L. Rice, M.D., is a board-certified
cardiothoracic surgeon who
also practices at Mount
Nittany Medical Center
and Lewistown Hospital,
717.242.7939.
The road less traveled
World
traveler
finds new
route to
renewed
health
A map showing every
destination they have
visited hangs in the
Berrys’ stairwell.
“I wasn’t sure what to
think,” Louise, 75, of
Altoona, recalled. “Honestly, I thought it
was just my nerves.
Turns out I had a possible
blockage in my heart.”
The way to track down the culprit was through
cardiac catheterization —
a procedure that examines
blood flow to the heart
and tests how well the
heart is pumping. Louise
was concerned about the
procedure, though, for fear
she’d have to lie on her back
for an extended period of
time. That was something
that, as of late, caused her
great pain.
New procedure
in this area
Fortunately, George
Jabbour, M.D., of Blair
Medical Associates
For more than 30 years, cardiac catheterizations have
been performed using the
femoral artery in the right groin as the point of insertion for the catheter. Dr. George
Jabbour of Blair Medical
Associates Cardiology and Dr. Mukul Bhatnagar of Pleasant Valley Cardiology offer an approach using the
radial artery in the wrist.
The tools
“I was blown away [that] it could
be done through the wrist.”
Just days
before her
scheduled
back surgery,
travel
enthusiast
Louise Berry
experienced
a burning
sensation in her
chest that forced
her to make an
unexpected trip
to the Altoona
Regional ER.
A different approach
this specialized procedure, Dr. Jabbour said.
‘He didn’t let me down’
“I told Dr. Jabbour to be
good to me, to treat me
like he’d treat his own
grandmother,” Louise said.
“He didn’t let me down.
He’s very caring, very
personable. ... That’s what I liked about him.”
Dr. Jabbour said transradial
cardiac catheterizations
benefit all patients but
especially those with lowerback pain, arthritis, obesity
and peripheral vascular
disease. The benefits of this
alternate approach include:
•No scarring
• Decreased risk of
bleeding
• Lowered risk of all
complications
• Less risk of trauma to
adjacent nerves and
blood vessels
•Reduced hospital and
health care costs
• And perhaps most
important for Louise, a
shorter recovery period
Cardiology,
performs transradial
cardiac catheterization,
a new procedure in Blair
County, which uses the
wrist, not the groin, for
catheter insertion.
“This approach allows
patients to sit up
immediately afterward,
and even walk,” said
Dr. Jabbour. “Standard
procedure requires that
they lie flat on their backs
for several hours to prevent
severe bleeding.”
Louise was relieved: “I was blown away when I
found out it could be done
through the wrist. I’d never
heard of that before.”
While this technique isn’t
new, less than 2 percent
of cardiac catheterizations
in the United States use
the transradial approach
because only a small
percentage of interventional
cardiologists are trained in
After her procedure, Louise
was taken back to her room
and was able to sit up and
eat right away.
“It was totally amazing to
me,” she said. “No pain in
my wrist or back, and I was
basically able to use my arm
right away. I just had some
minor restrictions, like no
On the cover: Louise and Gene Berry have collected
countless souvenirs during their travels. The couple displays
them throughout their Altoona home.
4
lifting heavy objects.”
Dr. Jabbour, who recently
moved to the area, is
excited to perform this new
technique in Blair County.
An option with many benefits
“People in the region
and beyond have access
to another cardiac
catheterization option that is truly beneficial in more
ways than one,” he said.
Although a blockage was
discovered that required Dr. Jabbour to insert a stent,
Louise was able to make a
full recovery and reschedule
her back surgery. With both
problems solved, she looks
forward to more travels with
her husband of 55 years,
Gene, and their two children,
seven grandchildren and
three great-grandchildren.
“We’ve been everywhere
except the north and
south poles,” Louise said.
“Traveling is just wonderful.
You should go as often as
you can. See the world.”
Contacts:
George Jabbour, M.D.
Blair Medical Associates
Cardiology
1414 9th Ave., Altoona
946.1655
Also performing transradial catheterization:
Mukul Bhatnagar, M.D.
Pleasant Valley Cardiology
1528 Pleasant Valley
Blvd., Altoona
944.4340
Sheath: A device that creates
an entry into the artery on the
underside of the wrist.
CATHETER: Flexible tubing,
about 3 feet long, inserted into
blood vessels, through which
doctors can diagnose and treat
cardiovascular problems.
WRISTBAND: Worn over the
puncture wound after the
catheter is removed. The
wristband keeps pressure on
the entry point, preventing
bleeding. Pressure on the site
is slowly lowered via a syringe
over several hours.
The process
STEP 1: The cardiologist
punctures the radial artery on
the wrist with a syringe and
inserts a guide sheath.
STEP 2: The catheter is
threaded into the artery via
the sheath. The cardiologist
slowly pushes the catheter up
the radial artery as it becomes
the brachial artery and then
the axillary artery. The catheter
stops at the ascending aorta,
just above the heart.
STEP 3: Diagnosis and
procedures, if necessary, are
performed. The cardiologist can
inject contrast dye to visualize
blockages in heart vessels.
STEP 4: The catheter and
sheath are removed, and a
pressurized wristband is placed on the entry site to stop bleeding.
2008-2009
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Five years old and
mature beyond our years
A message from Jerry Murray, president and CEO
Altoona Regional turned 5 years old on Nov. 1, 2009.
Although that is young by many standards, our health
system had to grow up in a hurry.
In the months before the merger that created Altoona
Regional, leaders of Altoona and Bon Secours-Holy Family
hospitals made a promise to you to enhance health care
quality, identify and meet community health care needs,
offer necessary new services when practical, and eliminate
waste and duplication.
Our work began on the very day we merged.
One of the first things we did was ask our employees,
volunteers and physicians what they envisioned for our
new health care system. They told us we should be a
world-class health care organization. A lofty goal but,
frankly, why strive for less? That goal became Altoona
Regional’s Vision Statement.
Striving to be exceptional
Likewise, our employees, volunteers and physicians said
we should strive to be exceptional every day in not only
our medical but our personal treatment of everyone who
walks through our doors. That became the basis of our
new Mission Statement: For exceptional people to provide
exceptional health care.
We have achieved so much since setting those goals,
especially in the key areas of technology, medical services,
quality and patient safety, and patient, employee and
physician satisfaction.
Space does not permit me to list every accomplishment
since 2004. In the area of technology, for example,
we added a new nuclear medicine camera, a new
angiography lab and a new linear accelerator — all in this
past fiscal year (July 1, 2008, through June 30, 2009).
Our Regional Stroke Center is a prime example of
enhancing medical services to meet local needs. It
improves outcomes and offers significant education and
prevention components in a community where stroke is prevalent.
patient satisfaction scores, while our employee and physician
satisfaction numbers have risen significantly over the years.
Our fiscal year financial performance was gratifying, as you
will see on the following page. We hope to continue with a
strong operating balance during fiscal 2010 in spite of the
many financial challenges facing health care providers.
One of the ways we hope to meet those challenges is with
the economic benefits of consolidating our acute-care
services (short-term treatment of patients who have a
serious illness or injury or are recovering from surgery).
By the end of this fiscal year, we should be close to
consolidating acute care on the Altoona Hospital Campus,
using additional renovated space in the former Altoona
Center facility.
Convenient outpatient location
Our plans for relocating outpatient services to the Station
Medical Center at 9th Avenue and 17th Street are also
moving forward. When opened in the fall of this year,
the refurbished space will include Imaging Services, an
outpatient lab, HealthForce (our occupational medicine
program), a sleep disorders lab, pre-anesthesia
evaluation, physical therapy and cardiac rehab —
with plenty of convenient parking.
With the exceptional people we have at Altoona
Regional, I know we will continue to make
progress toward our vision, live our mission and continue to deliver on the promise we made to
you five years ago.
Sincerely,
Altoona Regional Health System
outpatient services
Station Medical Center
Emphasis on quality, patient safety
Maybe our most comprehensive efforts have been in
the areas of quality and patient safety. We have earned
recognition on state, regional and national levels for
extraordinary clinical performance.
Similarly, we have earned national attention for many of our
5
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Key hospital
statistics
Admissions
20,437
Inpatient days
93,151
Average length of stay
4.56
(includes newborns)
Outpatient visits
407,026
Emergency
room visits
64,697
Inpatient surgical procedures
6,538
Outpatient surgical
procedures
17,434
Our patient
care revenues
come from:
Medicare
48.44%
Medicaid
13.18%
Commercial insurances
8.19%
Managed care
26.54%
Self-pay
1.62%
Other
2.04%
Where we spend
our dollars:
Highlights:
2
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38%
Employee benefits
11%
Professional fees, supplies & others
40%
Depreciation and amortization
5%
JULY
Staff members in
the Neuroscience
department, which
includes the Primary Stroke Center
Program, earn the
American Stroke
Association’s Get With
The Guidelines — Stroke
Bronze Performance
Achievement Award for
implementing a higher
standard of stroke care.
September
The Board of Directors
unanimously accepts the
recommendation of its
CEO Search Committee
and names Senior
Vice President/Clinical
Services Jerry Murray
as acting president and
CEO of Altoona Regional,
effective Nov. 1.
The Cardiothoracic
Intensive Care Unit earns
a Five-Star Excellence
Award based on scoring
in Professional Research
Consultants’ (PRC)
2008 National Patient
Benchmarking Database.
PRC is a national health
care research provider.
The unit scored in the top
10 percent nationally for
responses of “excellent” in Overall Quality of Care.
October
The Cardiac Rehabilitation department earns
its second recertification
from the American
Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary
Rehabilitation, a national
association promoting
strict standards for
the Intersocietal
SPECT/CT, it aids in
cardiac rehabilitation
Commission for the
the diagnosis of tumors
programs.
Accreditation of Vascular
and coronary artery,
Laboratories.
inflammatory, bone and
The Altoona Regional
kidney diseases.
Health System Foundation
Altoona Regional
for Life holds its inaugural
staff earns The Joint
Altoona Regional receives
charitable event, Health
Commission’s Gold
the American Stroke
Care Honors, at the
Seal of Approval by
Association’s Get With
Blair County Convention
demonstrating compliance
The Guidelines —
Center, drawing more
with national standards
Stroke Silver Performance
than 400 guests and
for health care quality
Achievement Award,
raising $400,000. The
and safety. The Joint
recognizing commitfirst honoree is retiring
Commission is dedicated
ment and success in
president and CEO James
to continuously improving
implementing a higher
W. Barner.
the safety and quality of
standard of stroke care
the nation’s health care.
by ensuring that stroke
As part of its ongoing
patients receive treatment
quality and patient safety
according to nationally
initiative, the health
accepted standards 2
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9
system implements a and recommendations.
new computer-assisted
system called MAK
January
April
(Medication AdminFor the seventh straight
In keeping with its
istration Check) to make
year, Altoona Regional
commitment to provide
sure the right patient gets
sponsors the area’s
the highest quality
the right dosage of the
largest health fair —
treatment available, right medication at the
Health-O-Rama. The
the Center for Cancer
right time.
event features informative
Care orders the Elekta and entertaining exhibits,
November
Synergy® S radiation
interactive demonstratreatment system. Altoona Regional earns
tions,
screenings
and
The $3 million linear three Achieving Patient
hands-on
product
accelerator is to be
Care Excellence Awards
displays,
as
well
as
operational in the fall.
from VHA Pennsylvania,
educational
seminars
by
the regional arm of the
May
physicians.
VHA national health care
The U.S. Department
A new report from the
alliance, for improving
of Health and Human
Pennsylvania Health Care
care for patients who
Services presents a
Cost Containment Council
have suffered from a heart
Medal of Honor to shows clinical staff
attack, and for preventing
Altoona Regional for
dramatically reduced the
and reducing bloodstream
achieving increased
rate of hospital-acquired
and MRSA infections.
organ donation rates.
infections by more than
The Noninvasive
half for the latest reportJune
Laboratory staff earns
ing period.
recognition for their
The Board of Directors
commitment to a high
March
officially names
level of patient care Jerry Murray president
Local patients gain access
and quality testing for
and CEO of to the latest in hybrid
the diagnosis of vascular
Altoona Regional nuclear medicine imaging
disease by achieving
Health System.
technology. Known as
accreditation from Financial
Information
7/1/08 to 6/30/09
Assets
Current assets
72,367,131
Assets whose use is limited
63,044,943
Other assets
87,042,652
222,454,726
Liabilities
Total operating revenues
313,456,002
Current and other liabilities
81,047,345
Total operating expenses
306,009,273
Long-term debt
30,839,469
7,446,729
Provision for bad debt 5%
Nonoperating gains
496,739
Interest
Excess revenues over expenses
7,943,468
6
Bal ance sheet
Total assets
Income statement
Income from operations
1%
July 1, 2008, to June 30, 2009
8
Hospital
Salaries and wages
Clinical and community service
Fund balance
Total liabilities and fund balance
110,567,912
222,454,726
Report
of charitable giving
General
Anonymous
Jack B. Barton
Mr. Richard J. Donoway
Mrs. Helen M. Force
William H. O’Shurak
Mr. Medford W. Ostrum
John W. Zook
In Honor Of
In honor of Altoona Regional
Health System Employees &
Physicians
Mrs. Valerie L. Brumbaugh
In honor of Altoona Regional
Health System Volunteers &
Friends
Mrs. Valerie L. Brumbaugh
In honor of Altoona Regional
Health System Mental Health
Staff at BSHC
Garth G. Moyer
In honor of Joseph L. Antonowicz
Anonymous
In honor of Danielle Gibbons
Anonymous
In honor of Jack D. Schocker
Mrs. Valerie L. Brumbaugh
In honor of Jack Schocker and
Cancer Staff
The Families of the late Roberta Runk
In Memory Of
In memory of Sherman Benton
Anonymous
In memory of J. Carolyn Routch
Dembert & Hoyne, CPA
Departmental Gifts
Alzheimer Support Group
In memory of Rita Raichle
Anonymous
Terri R. Ulaner
Center for Cancer Care
Altoona Regional Health System Radiation Oncology
Mr. and Mrs. William P. Benzel
Mr. and Mrs. Charles E.
Berkheimer
Mrs. Valerie L. Brumbaugh
Mrs. and Mr. Gwen Burket
Janet L. Christie
Friends of Altoona Regional Health
System
Richard S. McCoy
Nancy L. Mills
Mrs. Carol S. Oakes
Mr. and Mrs. Gregory M. Price
Mr. and Mrs. John A. Roberts, Jr.
Mr. and Mrs. Steven S. Seltzer
Mr. Stephen G. Sheetz
Mr. William H. Singleton, III
In memory of Thomas M. Bender
Hollidaysburg Veterans Home
Activity Department Staff
In memory of Lewis Kopac
Irwin Financial Inc.
Ira B. Kron Dialysis Unit
Chris’ Hallmark Shop
In memory of Dolly Bidoli
PIAA Blair County Baseball
Chapter
Gerald A. Spalding Basketball
Chapter
In memory of Harry E. Criswell
Doris A. Criswell
In memory of Frank DeLeo
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph J. DeLeo
PIAA Blair County Baseball
Chapter
In memory of Joseph R. Franchio
Mrs. Viola A. Franchio
In memory of Jean L. WisniewskiScherzinger
Vivian Boyer
Nikki R. Carey
Paula M. Cass
Central Cambria Middle School Staff
Cathy R. Christian
William M. Clarke
Florabelle Cobaugh
Mary J. Damin
Davies Family
Thomas L. Dixon
Kenneth E. Hartland
Kay Howsare
Mary W. Luxbacher
Antoinette L. Lyle
Alissa M. Menin
Rose M. Norris
Mr. and Mrs. David C. Ramsey
Pamela B. Rose
Mr. and Mrs. Jack R. Servello, Sr.
Frank W. Wisniewski
Regina A. Wisniewski
Donna Jean Hospitality House
Anonymous
In memory of Desiree A. Knechel
Ms. Shirley M. Walter
Drug & Alcohol Services
The EADS Group Employee Charity
Fund
Emergency Department
Alter Rock Jaycees - SCI
Huntingdon
In memory of Thelma G.
McLaughlin
Mr. Ernest G. Peterman
Maternity Department
Mrs. Helen L. Aikens
Blair County Literacy Council
Blair County Respiratory Disease Society
Ms. Helen M. Butler
Ms. Mary Louise Butler
Karen Chappell
Ms. Maxine Colyer
Ms. Nancy Delozier
Rosemarie Dibert
Sandy Eichelberger
Martha Fagan
Friends of Altoona Regional
Health System
Mr. And Mrs. Cindy Gardner
Mrs. Sheila M. Gardner
Mrs. Louise C. Hampton
Ms. Eleanor Hirchak
Emma Kneidinger
Lois Kuhn
Ms. Carol E. Leonard
Elsie T. Massimilla
Ms. Mary G. Mauk
Ms. M. Yvonne McConnell
Donna Otto
Janice A. Snowberger
Ms. Virginia Socey
Martha Stouffer
Carol M. and Merwyn Trexler
Ward Avenue United Presbyterian
Mrs. Beverly E. Way
Ms. Patricia A. Winters
PA Black Lung Clinic Coalition
In memory of Joseph J. Conway
Gary P. Gallagher
Vernon C. Laudeman
Rita K. Quinlan
Betty E. Wells
David T. Wells
Partnership for Health Free Medical Clinic
Friends of Altoona Regional Health System
Pediatrics
Blair Bedford Builders Association
Danna Cabar
Christine Durbin
Mrs. Pamela Gearhart
Ashley Madden
Colleen Sward
Waldenbooks
V.F.W. Ladies Auxiliary Post 4440
Radiation Oncology
Miss Liliann Benzel
Mrs. Julia A. Scarfone
Janice A. Snowberger
Bernard A. Rosch Palliative Care
1st Summit Bank Employee
Foundation
In loving memory of Thomas M. Bender
Mrs. Anita Bender
Mr. Gordon J. Bradley
Saint Francis University Office of Continuing Education
Following is a list of those who generously extended
financial support to Altoona Regional Health System during
fiscal 2009 (July 1, 2008, through June 30, 2009).
As a nonprofit charitable organization, Altoona Regional
is grateful to every donor for helping us strengthen and
enhance health care in our community.
In loving memory of Nancy Jo Black
Mr. Kenneth E. Black
In memory of Theresa Bruno
Ms. Kathryn S. Maginnis
Mageli G. Talastas
In memory of Jerry Chapman
Allegheny General Hospital - 9C
In memory of Barbara J. Clever
Jim Zubik
In fond remembrance of Thomas
Conrad
Mr. and Mrs. Scott W. Harrison
In loving memory of Thomas Conrad
Mr. and Mrs. Jim J. Savina
Mr. Steven Smith and Ms. Tricia O’Leary
In memory of Thomas Conrad
Mr. and Mrs. James K. Beasom
Mr. and Mrs. Justin V. Devery
Ella Gladman
Mr. and Mrs. James A. Healey
Mr. and Mrs. David W. Levy
In memory of George DelBaggio
Rodney Berkheimer
Brookville Hospital - Radiology Department
Carol A. Frantz
Ms. Carol L. Stringer
Pennsylvania Federation of
Fraternal Clubs
Tyrone VFW
In memory of Laura M. Diviney
Ms. Ronna J. Diviney
In memory of Margaret Healy
Barbara Latchford
In memory of Amedeo N. Perretta
Mrs. Catherine Perretta
In memory of Maria C. Perretta
Mrs. Catherine Perretta
In memory of Helen Rosch
Mr. and Mrs. Jordan S. Bailinger
Joan R. Bergstein
Mrs. Valerie L. Brumbaugh
Rebecca S. Cohen
Mr. and Mrs. Donald Devorris
David Horowitz
David M. Horowitz
Mr. Michael Kaplan
Dr. and Mrs. Stephen M. Kaplan
Mr. and Mrs. Rex H. Kaup
Toby Levin
Mrs. Ida Levine
Ona Lowe
Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Port
Mr. and Mrs. Martin A. Schulman
Cindy Schwab
Amy B. Seltzer
Young, Oakes, Brown & Company, P.C.
In memory of Carol Walters
The Walters Family
In memory of Thomas J. Wojcik
M & T Bank Special Assets Dept
SCI Forest Administrative Staff
SCI Forest Employee Association
Ward Truckload Express, LLC
Trauma Services
Juniata United Methodist Church Bear Makers
Volunteer Services
In memory of Theresa Bruno
Mr. Anthony J. Bruno Sr.
John Burket
Greater Beneficial Union - District 45th
Mrs. Judith M. Hollern
Werner W. Mark
Shirley J. Millin
Connie A. Minielli
Clarke Nightingale
Mr. and Mrs. Saul Paikin
Ms. Paula S. Roberts
Ms. Maxine C. Ross
Ms. Dana J. Shade
Mr. and Mrs. Ted L. Swab
Terri R. Ulaner
Williamsburg Family Practice
Altoona Regional Health System Williamsburg Office of Altoona Family Physicians
Anonymous
Ms. Colleen Becker
Dr. Donald Beckstead
Blair County Plastic Surgery, Inc. Skin Care
Clearbrook Family Medicine
Fiorina Family Practice, LLC
Dr. Tamara L. Hoffman
Dr. Curtis C. Thill
7
General
Anonymous (4)
Mr. and Mrs. Manuel P. Casado
Mr. and Mrs. Donald Devorris
Mrs. Lois M. Eakins
Mr. Glenn A. Edwards
Mr. and Mrs. Clayton C. Rickens
Mrs. Helen F. Seidel
Mrs. Emily G. Yeatts
M. Zaky Youssef
In Honor Of
In honor of Serena Albarano
Anonymous
In honor of All the Loving,
Caring Employees &
Volunteers
Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Ellis
In honor of Altoona Regional
Board Members, Employees,
Physicians, Volunteers/
Friends
Mrs. Valerie L. Brumbaugh
In honor of Altoona Regional
Foundation for Life Board
Mrs. Valerie L. Brumbaugh
In honor of Altoona Regional
Health System Board of
Trustees
Sister Mary Aquinas Tolusciak
In honor of Altoona Regional
Health System Employees
Sister Mary Aquinas Tolusciak
In honor of Altoona Regional
Health System Medical Staff
Sister Mary Aquinas Tolusciak
In honor of Altoona Regional
Health System Nursing Staff
Sister Mary Aquinas Tolusciak
In honor of Altoona Regional
Health System Patients
Sister Mary Aquinas Tolusciak
In honor of Altoona Regional
Health System Senior
Leaders
Sister Mary Aquinas Tolusciak
In honor of Amber Terrace
Residents
Amber Terrace Assisted Living
Residence
In honor of Mary Aquinas
Mr. and Mrs. C. Elton Crider
In honor of James W. Barner
Mrs. Valerie L. Brumbaugh
Mrs. Cindy L. Skupien
In honor of Edward J. Belin
Mr. and Mrs. Jesse S. Dodson
In honor of Bon Secours
Volunteers
Mrs. Sally L. Jackson
In honor of Aaron J. Brumbaugh
Mrs. Valerie L. Brumbaugh
In honor of Ian B. Brumbaugh
Mrs. Valerie L. Brumbaugh
In honor of All Cecchine and
Miller Family Members
Mr. and Mrs. Allen Cecchine
In honor of Doctors & Nurses
Mrs. Nancy E. Campbell
In honor of Erin Dodson
Mrs. Valerie L. Brumbaugh
Mrs. Michelle A. Dodson
In honor of Patty Elliott
Ms. Sharon A. McDowell
In honor of Janet Ellis
Mrs. Sheri L. Simpson
Ms. Allison Tyler
In honor of Stephen Ellis
Ms. Allison Tyler
In honor of Ralph Farabaugh
Family
Mrs. Theresa Storm
In honor of Zane H. Gates
Mrs. Constance E. James
In honor of Ava Nicole Gordon
Mrs. Kathy Brown
In honor of Grandchildren Brian-Nicole-Colleen
Mr. Les M. and Mrs. Hazel Weise
In honor of Cooper Hazard
Mrs. Valerie L. Brumbaugh
In honor of Bill Helsel
Anonymous
In honor of John & Wanda Horton
Anonymous
In honor of Inpatient Rehab Unit
Workers
Ms. Josephine Wenrich
In honor of Paul J. Kelly
Mr. and Mrs. Luke Kelly
In honor of Paul & Kathleen
Kozicky
Ms. Nancy Edmiston
In honor of Logan Marie Krug
Ms. Anne T. Stoltz
In honor of Jean Lucas
Mrs. Sharon A. Rydbom
In honor of Donald N. MacDonald
Mrs. Helen R. MacDonald
In honor of Debbie McClellan
Mrs. Cindy L. Skupien
In honor of Pete & Shirley
McConnell
Mr. and Mrs. Ronald J. McConnell
In honor of Jorden McClure
Anonymous
In honor of Mike, Judy, Christine,
Greg, Pat and Gregg
Mr. Les M. and Mrs. Hazel Weise
In honor of William H. Moses
Reverend Terryann Talbot-Moses
In honor of Jayce Anthony Quick
Mr. and Mrs. Drew M. Appleman,
Jr.
In honor of Colleen Reagan
Ms. Emily Reagan
In honor of Paul A. Reagan
Mrs. Michelle A. Dodson
In honor of Brenda Reeder
Mrs. Dorothy L. Reeder
In honor of Mildred M. Santella
Ms. Sandra R. Thompson-Colyer
In honor of Cindy L. Skupien
Mrs. Valerie L. Brumbaugh
Mrs. Debbie McClellan
Ms. Emily Reagan
In honor of W. J. Veigle
Reverend Terryann Talbot-Moses
In honor of Vicki Wertz
The Honorable Jolene Grubb
Kopriva
In honor of Deb, Joe & Laura
Yartin
Mr. and Mrs. Thomas W. Baker
In honor of Stephanie Young
Ms. Emily Reagan
In Memory of
In memory of Betty J. Adams
Mr. John C. Adams
In memory of Elwood Adams
Mrs. Kay Adams
In memory of Francis (Shung)
Agosta
Ms. Betty Ann Agosta
In memory of Theresa M.
Alexander
Mr. Ralph H. Alexander
In memory of June Baum
Ms. Susan M. Thomas
In memory of Goldie Bayer
Mr. and Mrs. Donald L. Burket
In memory of Earl Beldin
Ms. Eileen Rabish
In memory of Ruth Beldin
Ms. Eileen Rabish
In memory of Edward Belin
Mr. and Mrs. Jesse S. Dodson
In memory of William E. Bennetti
Dr. and Mrs. Matthew P.
Bouchard, M.D.
In memory of Mario & Antonio
Bertazzoli
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph M. Francis
In memory of C. Grace Beyer
Mr. and Mrs. John R. Beyer
In memory of Thomas & Edith Bidoli
Ms. Grace Steinbugl
In memory of Jane Bishop
Mr. and Mrs. James L. Tully
In memory of Ryan Bishop
Ms. Anne T. Stoltz
In memory of Theo Bolan
Anonymous
In memory of Eric Bordell
Mr. and Mrs. Duane P. Bordell
In memory of Heather Bouch
Ms. Amy J. Vinglish
In memory of Bonnie Brannigan
Mrs. Gail L. Thompson
In memory of Lora L. Brashears
Mrs. Valerie L. Brumbaugh
Mrs. Judith M. Hollern
In memory of Bernice Breon
Mrs. Lois M. Eakins
In memory of Shirley Brower
Mr. Kevin Brower
In memory of Mike Brubaker
Mr. and Mrs. Drew M. Appleman, Jr.
In memory of Angela Elizabeth
Brumbaugh
Mrs. Valerie L. Brumbaugh
Mrs. Judith M. Hollern
In memory of Theresa Bruno
Mrs. Valerie L. Brumbaugh
Mr. Anthony J. Bruno, Sr.
Mrs. Betty L. Stoltz
In memory of Emma G. Burk
Mr. Donald F. Burk
In memory of Francis and Bertha Burk
Anonymous
In memory of Ronald E. Bush
Mrs. Anna M. Bush
In memory of Evelyn Caputo
Mrs. Stella C. Conte
In memory of Martin Caputo
Mrs. Stella C. Conte
In memory of Deceased Members
of Cecchine/Miller Family
Mr. and Mrs. Allen Cecchine
In memory of Thomas
Chamberlain
Mrs. Donna M. Chamberlain
In memory of Donald R. Chestney
Mrs. Rozella M. Chestney
In memory of June M. Cicero
Mr. Joseph D. Cicero
In memory of Joy Stevanus
Clapper
Mrs. Norma J. Stevanus
In memory of Phyllis Connelly
Mr. and Mrs. Donald Squillario
In memory of Tom Conrad
Mrs. Valerie L. Brumbaugh
Mr. and Mrs. William M. Saylor
In memory of Margaret M.
Cooney
Mrs. Elizabeth R. Kline
In memory of Clarence and Alvoria Crider
Mr. and Mrs. C. Elton Crider
In memory of Herm and Melania Dambeck
Mr. and Mrs. James R. Burchfield
In memory of Melania Dambeck
Mrs. Valerie L. Brumbaugh
In memory of Dawn
Mrs. Elizabeth R. Kline
In memory of Glenn Dodson
Mrs. Michelle A. Dodson
In memory of Helen G. Dodson
Ms. Susan A. Dodson
In memory of Paul S. Downing
Mrs. Debbie McClellan
In memory of Sarah A. Dreibelbis
Ms. Leanne R. Sible
In memory of Edith Drenning
Mr. James W. Drenning
In memory of Darlene Dunmyer
Mr. and Mrs. Thomas W. Baker
In memory of Lois Dunmyer
Mr. and Mrs. Thomas W. Baker
Mrs. Valerie L. Brumbaugh
In memory of Catherine Eakins
Mrs. Lois M. Eakins
In memory of Ernest Elmer Eakins
Mrs. Lois M. Eakins
In memory of Karen Grigg
Eckenrode
Mr. and Mrs. John N. Grigg
In memory of Mary Elder
Mrs. Kay Adams
In memory of Fred and
Petronella Elvey
Ms. Deborah E. McDougal
In memory of Rick Epple
Mrs. Elizabeth R. Kline
In memory of Henry Evangelista
Ms. Mona L. Henck
In memory of Albert Evangelisto
Mrs. Flora L. Evangelisto
In memory of Elaine Evangelisto
Mrs. Flora L. Evangelisto
In memory of Billie Lou Faight
Blair and Bedford Central Labor
Council
In memory of Daniel Thomas
Fanelli
Mrs. Mary C. Fanelli
In memory of Mary Farabaugh
Mrs. Theresa Storm
In memory of Ralph and Ruth Fink
Ms. Virginia L. Dively
In memory of Linda Flaherty
Anonymous
In memory of Harriet Fochler
Ms. Julie Fochler
In memory of Joe and Anna Francis
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph M. Francis
In memory of Almerinda Frezza
Mrs. Mary M. Hoover
In memory of Marion D. Frezza
Mrs. Mary M. Hoover
In memory of James Gainvors
Mr. Joseph F. Samuels
In memory of Harold G. Gampe
Ms. Charleen Beichler
In memory of John W. Gardner
Ms. Pamela S. Robison
In memory of Gloria Gates
Mr. and Mrs. James J. Klueg
In memory of Wade A. Gates
Mrs. Emma J. Gates
In memory of Robert M. &
Genevieve N. Gildea
Miss Patricia M. Gildea
In memory of Oswald Girard
Mrs. Mary M. Hoover
In memory of Ima Gonter
Mrs. Connie L. Shultz
In memory of Joan Grondin
Mrs. Mary M. Hoover
In memory of Sylvia and Robert Gunnett
Ryan R. Ridenour, M.D.
In memory of Nellie Gunsalus
Mrs. Norma L. Knouse
In memory of Grace “Hydie”
Hamilton
Mrs. Laverne A. Lockard
In memory of Lorrie Hample
Altoona Regional Health System
Neurology/Non-Invasive
In memory of Alan L.
Harshberger
Mrs. Linda A. Harshberger
In memory of William L.
Harshberger
Mrs. Linda A. Harshberger
In memory of Emes E. Harten
Ms. Carol A. Harten
In memory of Harry K. Hays
Mrs. Doris Hays
In memory of Cameron L. Hazard
Mrs. Valerie L. Brumbaugh
In memory of Sprague C. Hazard
Mrs. Valerie L. Brumbaugh
In memory of Susan E. Heaton
Mr. and Mrs. George Heaton
In memory of Aaron Heer
Mrs. Linda A. Harshberger
In memory of David Heininger
Mrs. Deborah K. Curran
In memory of Elmer and Pearl Helsel
Mr. Les M. Weise
In memory of Edwarda S. Hess
Mr. David S. Hess
In memory of Mary and Ferd Hite
Mr. and Mrs. Paul F. Hite
In memory of Joann Hocherl
Mrs. Anna M. Bush
In memory of Sheila Hoffman
Mrs. Lilia J. Sprankle
In memory of Mike Hook
Mr. and Mrs. Raymond R. Dodson
In memory of Jane Hoover
Mr. and Mrs. James L. Tully
In memory of Lillian J. Hoover
Mr. and Mrs. Timothy G. Hileman, Sr.
Mrs. Mary M. Hoover
In memory of Roger Hoover
Mr. and Mrs. Timothy G. Hileman, Sr.
Mrs. Mary M. Hoover
In memory of John B. Hopfl
Ms. Lynne M. Hopfl
In memory of John & Mary
Horgas
Mrs. Carole Roman
In memory of Charles Humm
Mrs. Shirley A. Humm
In memory of John W. Humm
Mrs. Shirley A. Humm
In memory of George R. Ickes
Mrs. Patricia L. Ickes
Mr. and Mrs. Jerry L. Ritchey
In memory of Leslie Nicole
Johnson
Mr. and Mrs. Elvin Johnson
In memory of Wayne Keller
Ms. Madeleine L. Keller
In memory of Chester Kimmel
Anonymous
In memory of Desiree A. Knechel
Ms. Shirley M. Walter
In memory of Dorothy Koch
Anonymous
In memory of Brooke (Kuhnlein) Krug
Ms. Anne T. Stoltz
In memory of Brooke Kuhnlein
Mrs. Jill S. Blescia
In memory of Krishna Kumari
Anonymous
In memory of Betty Lang
Mrs. Kathleen L. Lenhart
In memory of Dorothy & Dale
Lansberry
Mrs. George M. Lightner, Jr.
In memory of Richard Joseph
Lansberry
Mrs. Barbara Wyland
In memory of Dollie Lee
Ms. Jaime Balsamo
In memory of Bob Leipold
Mrs. Connie A. Leipold
In memory of Edna B. Lightner
Miss Kathie A. Albarano
In memory of Hayden Scott Link
Mrs. and Mr. Ramona F. Shrift
In memory of Frank & Mary Livoti
Mrs. Sharon L. Ciccarella
In memory of Freddie Long
Mr. Charles W. Harter
In memory of Frank Luksik
Mrs. Valerie L. Brumbaugh
In memory of Richard B. Magee
Mrs. Louise Magee
In memory of Helen March
Anonymous
In memory of A. Joe Martino
Mrs. Josephine A. Martino
In memory of Martha Mauk
Mrs. Lynette M. Nelson
In memory of Donnie McCabe
Mrs. Joanna M. Heinsling
In memory of Carol A. McCaulley
Peggy Gaida
In memory of Liam Sean Patrick
McCaulley
Mrs. Norma A. Smith
In memory of Betty McConnell
Ms. Julie Fochler
In memory of M. Jayne
McCormick
Mr. and Mrs. Georgs S. Pisanick
In memory of James McDowell
Ms. Sharon A. McDowell
In memory of Joel McElhinney
Mrs. Paula J. Kenepp
In memory of Andrew and Phyllis McHugh
Mrs. Kathleen M. Neal
In memory of Tom McIntire
Mr. and Mrs. William Shaffer
In memory of George Miller
Mr. and Mrs. Paul F. Hite
In memory of Irene Mirkowski
Dr. Amy K. Metzger
In memory of Alice Monanan
Mr. and Mrs. Donald Ruggery, Jr.
In memory of Emma Monahan
Mr. and Mrs. Donald Ruggery, Jr.
In memory of Evelyn Morrow
Mr. and Mrs. Paul Caracciolo, II
In memory of Harry E. Myers
Mrs. Edythe M. Myers
In memory of Sarah Myers
Mr. and Mrs. Paul J. Nevel
In memory of John Nardon
Altoona Regional Health System
HealthForce Employees
In memory of A. Calvin Nedimyer
Mrs. Eleanor J. Nedimyer
In memory of Sarah Norris
Ms. Lottie L. Burdick
In memory of Bob Nowlen
Ms. Betty L. Nowlen
In memory of Our Parents
Mrs. Gina M. Kirby
In memory of Stella Palochak
Ms. Brigid Palochak
In memory of Kay Patton
Ms. Alisha Patton
In memory of Rosemarie Prevost
Mrs. Michele Welchko
In memory of Edie Pry
Mr. and Mrs. John A. Frederick
In memory of Harold Pry
Mr. and Mrs. John A. Frederick
In memory of Mary Reed
Mrs. Linda A. Harshberger
In memory of Dorothy Reilly
Ms. Mary L. Reilly
In memory of Lynne G. Rice
Mrs. Julie Decker
In memory of LeRoy M. Riley
Ms. Shirley F. Riley
In memory of Patrick Michael
Riley
Mrs. Valerie L. Brumbaugh
In memory of Anthony Roberts
Mrs. Mary A. Roberts
In memory of Nancy Robison
Ms. Dana J. Shade
In memory of Franklin D. Roesch
Ms. Mary M. Roesch
In memory of Helen Rosch
Mrs. Valerie L. Brumbaugh
In memory of Norman Rose
Mrs. Margaret E. Rose
In memory of Carolyn Routch
Mrs. Valerie L. Brumbaugh
AMED
AmerisourceBergen Services
Corporation
Dr. and Mrs. John S. Anastasi
Anonymous (2)
Artemis Group
Drs. Anthony J. and Liang R.
Bartkowiak
Mr. and Mrs. Cloyd Beers
Mr. and Mrs. William P. Benzel
Mrs. Nancy J. Bergstein
Betar Dental, PC, Inc.
Blair Business Communications
Blair Companies
Blair County Anesthesia
Blair County Plastic Surgery, Inc. Skin Care
Blair Gastroenterology Associates
Blair Medical Associates, Inc.
Boston Scientific
Dr. Janelle L. Brumbaugh
Mrs. Valerie L. Brumbaugh
Drs. James and Nancy Burke
Mr. and Mrs. Thomas J. Butler
Cambridge Medical Staffing, Inc.
Mr. and Mrs. Willard Campbell
CBIZ Benefits & Insurance
Services, Inc.
Center for Emergency Medicine of
Western PA, Inc.
Central Credit Audit, Inc.
Mrs. Sharon L. Ciccarella
Conemaugh Health System
Mr. and Mrs. William M. Cooper
Cornerstone Advisors Asset
Management
Mr. and Mrs. Michael Corso
Dr. and Mrs. David L. Cowger
Credit Control Collections
Dr. Donald B. Crider
Mr. David M. Cuzzolina
Dale Oxygen, Inc.
Damin Printing Company, LLC
Mr. David A. DeGol
DeGol Organization
Mrs. Sherry DelGrosso
Delta Dental of Pennsylvania
Delta Health Technologies
Mr. and Mrs. James V. DeStefano
Mr. and Mrs. Donald L. Detwiler
Dr. and Mrs. Ronald A. Dietrick
Dr. and Mrs. Steven Draskoczy
Drenning Delivery System
Attorney John E. Eberhardt, Jr.
Mrs. Flo Eberhart
Senator John H. Eichelberger and Charlotte Ames
Fenner Corporation
Ms. Marian E. Fifer
Financial Health
Leonard S. Fiore, Inc.
First Commonwealth Bank
First Energy Corporation
FIT Optimized Solutions
The Honorable Michael Fleck
Ms. Nancy R. Fogel
Mr. and Mrs. John A. Freas
Mr. and Mrs. Dale Fuller
Dr. and Mrs. Zane H. Gates
Mrs. Denise C. Gdula
The Honorable Richard A. Geist
Miss Patricia M. Gildea
Mr. and Mrs. Keith Glaros
Dr. Roberto Gonzalez
Dr. and Mrs. Edmundo M. Grab
Mr. Joseph A. Grappone, Esq.
Mrs. Anita Grimes
H. F. Lenz Company
H.R.S.I.
Dr. and Mrs. Charles Haas
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Halbritter
Mrs. Diane L. Harris
Mr. and Mrs. John Hawksworth
Hayes Large Architects
HealthCare Benefits, Inc.
HealthSouth Rehabilitation
Hospital
Mr. Ronald L. Hefner
Highmark Blue Cross
Blue Shield - Pittsburgh
The Hite Company
Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Hockenberry
Mrs. Judith M. Hollern
Home Health Resource
Home Nursing Agency Affiliates
Hospital Council of Western Pennsylvania Insight Investments
Mr. and Mrs. Michael Irwin
Mrs. Karen P. Isenberg
Jacoby Trexler Architects
Johnson Controls, Inc.
Drs. John and Alice Joyce
K & L Gates, LLP
Dr. Kelly Kane
Dr. Raj G. Kansal
Mr. John R. Kepler
Dr. and Mrs. Ziad Khoury
Kopp Drug Store
The Honorable Jolene Grubb
Kopriva
Mr. and Mrs. Edward Kreuz Jr.
Ms. Ellen M. Lambert
Drs. Simon and Carolyn Lampard
In memory of J. Carolyn Routch
Attorney James S. Routch
In memory of Donald & Roberta Runk
Mrs. Valerie L. Brumbaugh
In memory of Rinaldo Russo
Mr. and Mrs. Anthony J. Russo
In memory of Mildred M. Santella
Ms. Sandra R. Thompson-Colyer
In memory of Palma Scarfone
Mrs. Julia A. Scarfone
In memory of Peg
Schmidhammer
Ms. Catherine Prescott
In memory of George C.
Schneider
Ms. Patricia S. Frank
In memory of Charles and Alice
Sheehan
Ms. Ruth A. Slippey
In memory of Patricia A.
Shellenberger
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph
Shellenberger
In memory of Margaret Sickles
Mr. and Mrs. Charles H. Sickles, Jr.
In memory of Butch Skupien
Mrs. Cindy L. Skupien
In memory of Mack Smyers
Mr. and Mrs. Drew M. Appleman, Jr.
In memory of Joanne Snyder
Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth E. Graham
In memory of William D. Snyder
Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth E. Graham
In memory of Harry Sprankle
Mrs. Lilia J. Sprankle
In memory of Edward & Mary
Squillario
Mr. and Mrs. Donald Squillario
In memory of Edna Steinbugl
Ms. Carol A. Orr
In memory of Russell Stiles
Peggy Gaida
In memory of Charles Stoner
Mrs. Lorraine Fox
In memory of Robert S. Stotler
Ms. Kathy Stevens
In memory of John J. Stoyanoff
Mrs. Shirley M. Stoyanoff
In memory of Arthur and Maude
Taylor
Mr. and Mrs. Charles H. Sickles, Jr.
In memory of Nancy Thayer
Mr. and Mrs. Fred P. Fraundorfer
In memory of Ann Thompson
Mrs. Linda A. Harshberger
In memory of Anna Mae Thompson
Mrs. Linda A. Harshberger
In memory of Lester Thompson
Ms. Sandra R. Thompson-Colyer
Dr. and Mrs. Ryan Zlupko
In memory of Lula Thompson
Ms. Sandra R. Thompson-Colyer
Dr. and Mrs. Ryan Zlupko
In memory of Zachary Topper
Ms. D. Gail Boyles
In memory of Mary C. Traxler
Mr. and Mrs. Duane D. Traxler
In memory of Ronald J. Turek
Mr. and Mrs. Michael A. Turek
In memory of Ron Ullery
Mrs. Linda A. Harshberger
In memory of Andrew Velone
Ms. Jennifer Lepore
In memory of Joseph Wales
Dr. and Mrs. Ryan Zlupko
In memory of Lester and Ester Weise
Mr. Les M. Weise
In memory of Judy Wills
Anonymous
In memory of Richard A.
Rosemary & Robert Yohn
Ms. Rosemary Yohn
In memory of Joseph Zang
Ms. Louise Zang
HEALTH
CARE
HONORS
Adara Healthcare Staffing, Inc.
Ralph J. Albarano & Sons, Inc.
Allegheny Lutheran Social
Ministries
Altoona Blair County Development
Corporation
Altoona Mirror
Altoona Regional Health System
Medical Staff
Altoona Regional Health Systems
- AFSCME AFL-CIO Local 0691
8
Mrs. Carolyn Lapierre
Lawruk Realty
Lee Industries, Inc.
Mr. Michael G. Letcher
Mrs. Monica Liebal
Ms. Karen Longo
Lumax Industries, Inc.
M & T Charitable Foundation
Mr. and Mrs. Louis Mafrice
Dr. and Mrs. R. Samuel Magee
Mainline Medical Associates, Inc.
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Mancari
Dr. and Mrs. Anthony Maniglia
Martin Oil Company
Dr. Gregory S. Martinek
S. P. McCarl and Co.
Mr. and Mrs. Ronald J. McConnell
Ms. Paula McNulty
Mock Creations, LLC
Morefield Communications, Inc.
Reverend Terryann Talbot-Moses
and William H. Moses
Mount Aloysius College
Mountain Research, LLC
Mr. Joseph F. Moxin
MTS Transportation, Inc.
Dr. Dennis E. Murray
Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Murray
Mr. and Mrs. Gary Naugle
Drs. Matthew and Laura Newlin
Dr. and Mrs. Carroll P. Osgood, Jr.
Owens & Minor
Paris Company
Partnering for Health Services
Free Medical Clinic
Ms. Shirley Pechter
Penn State Altoona
Pennsylvania Networks, Inc.
The Honorable Thomas G.
Peoples, Jr.
Mrs. Catherine Perretta
Pleasant Valley Cardiology, LLP
Mr. and Mrs. Neil Port
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph M. Pufka
Mr. and Mrs. Allan J. Rabold
Reed, Smith, Shaw & McClay
Reilly, Creppage & Co., Inc.
Mr. and Mrs. Clayton C. Rickens
Ms. Jacquie Rizzo
Mr. John Rizzo
Roaring Spring Paper Products
Floral Association
Mr. James M. Robuck
Mrs. Patricia A. Ross
Mr. and Mrs. William J. Rossman
Attorney James S. Routch
RoyalCare Medical Staffing
S&T Bank
Dr. Manickam Sankaran
Dr. and Mrs. Jack D. Schocker
Ms. Dana J. Shade
Mr. and Mrs. William Shaffer
Sheetz, Inc.
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph
Shellenberger
Siemens - The Siemens
Philanthropic Fund
Mr. Phil Sky
Mrs. Catherine Sprouse
Mr. and Mrs. Donald Squillario
St. Jude Medical
Stelco, Inc.
Ms. Anne T. Stoltz
Mr. Robert W. Strawser
Ms. Patti K. Sweet
Ms. Kathryn Terlinsky
Mr. and Mrs. Vincent Turiano
University Ortho
UPMC & UPMC Health Plan
UPMC Health Plan - Pittsburgh Office
Mrs. Kathy J. Vincent
Dr. and Mrs. John T. Waibel
Mr. and Mrs. William G. Wallen
Dr. and Mrs. Robert E. Wertz
Ms. Vicki L. Wertz, Esq.
Mrs. Christi Wimer
Word Processing Services, Inc.
Mr. R. Thomas Zeek
Dr. and Mrs. George Zlupko
Dr. and Mrs. Ryan Zlupko
Mr. and Mrs. Charles R. Zorger
Mr. and Mrs. Gary Zuckerman
General
Kay Adams
Linda L. Allen
Altoona Regional Health System HIM Flower Fund
Altoona Regional Health SystemSunshine Fund - Wound &
Ostomy Program - BSHC
Karen Anna
Traci Anna
Anonymous (11)
Christina Arnsparger
Desire Arthur
Janet Ashurst
Cheryl Bakale
Pennie J. Balzano
Gina Barefoot
Doll Barr
Drs. Anthony J. and Liang R.
Bartkowiak
Mary K. Baughman
Janine Beard
Helen Beck
Grace Beere
Cloyd Beers
Terri Beers
Charleen Beichler
Sherri Bennett
Edward Benson
Patty L. Benton
Nancy J. Bergstein
Brandy Bergum
Desirea Berkheimer
Shirley Bickers
Deborah Biddle
Kari S. Biddle
Vicki L. Bilka
Christina Blake
Jeffrey H. Blender
Rona Bohner
Vance C. Bolan
Jessica Bonsell
Karrie A. Bonsell
Jennifer Bopp
Polly Boring
Terry L. Bow
Daniel B. Boyles
Karen Brady
Jill D. Brantner
Jacqueline D. Brooks
Valerie L. Brumbaugh
Jenny Buckrop
Kathleen Buckrop
Dr. and Mrs. Robert Budd
Margie Burchfield
Jennie Burket
Herbert Burns
Anna M. Bush
Megan Buterbaugh
Barbara J. Butler
Jessica Cadwallader
Lora Caretti
Brenda Carles
Cindy Carlheim
Karen Carruthers
Sandra Casey
Catherine A. Castellucci
Anna L. Cerully
Donna M. Chamberlain
Vickie Cherry
Carla A. Cheslock
Sue Chew
Cathy Chirdon
Mark Chuff
Sharon L. Ciccarella
Joseph D. Cicero
Christina Claar
Stacie Claar
Ronna Clark
Teresa Clingerman
Margaret Coder
Gwen Colasante
Dianne M. Contreras
LeeAnn Conway
Marylou E. Conway
Kimberly J. Corle
Michael Corso
Jean A. Costlow
Dr. and Mrs. David L. Cowger
Connie M. Cox
Patricia Cox
Debra M. Craig
Lucille A. Crawford
Beth Cree
Nancy Creighton
Mr. and Mrs. C. Elton Crider
Lorrie Crofcheck
Diane Croft
Sharon S. Croft
Deborah K. Curran
Dave Cuzzolina
Deborah J. Dambeck
Cheryl A. Davis
Kerri Dean
Sharon A. DeGol
Jennifer Dennis
Darlene M. Denny
Susan M. Depp
James V. DeStefano
Judy M. DeStefano
Donna R. Detwiler
Sarah Detwiler
Patricia A. Deyarmin
Jessica Dick
Mary J. Diehl
Melissa J. Diehl
Michele Dignan
Cathy Dillen
Cathy Ditosti
Constance T. Dively
Sherri Dively
Tangela J. Dively
Virginia L. Dively
John Dobson
Jacqueline K. Dodson
Susan A. Dodson
Aimee L. Donahue
Megan Donaldson
Shirley A. Donnelly
Charlene Dorsey
Ashley Downing
Barbara J. Dumm
Janet M. Durbin
Lois M. Eakins
Joleen Earnest
Rhonda Eckenrode
Stephanie Eckenrode
Kaly Eckenroth
April Eckhard
Janet Ellis
Mary Emery
Donna M. Evangelisto
Kristin Farabaugh
Paulette Farabaugh
Patricia A. Fay
Lori Feathers
Tamera Feathers
Lynn Fenchak
Cindy Fickes
Carol B. Field
Christine Filer
Christina Bratton Finkbeiner
Debra J. Finochio
Debbie Fisher-Mardula
Julie Fochler
Michelle Foor
Julie Foose
Anita Forlina
Debbie G. Fornwalt
Nancy Forshey
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Victoria J. Franks
Fred P. Fraundorfer
John A. Freas
Jackie Frew
Lori Frey
Jane Friedenberger
Karen Fronauer
Pamela E. Frye
Rebecca Frye
Dale Fuller
Wilma Gaida
Georgia A. Gampe
Gilbert Gampe
Diane Garvey
Denise C. Gdula
Debra K. Geesey
Anne L. Gehret
Mary J. Geishauser
Jaime Genovese
Nick Genovese
Kimberly A. Gilliland
Keith Glaros
Betty Glass
Ella M. Glass
Randall Grabill
David Gracey, Jr.
David Gracey, Sr.
Kathryn Graffius
Andora Grager
Cornelia L. Gray
Christel Grazier
Carla J. Gregory-Becktent
Keith Grigg
Anita Grimes
Catherine Grodes
Catherine S. Grove
Janet L. Grove
Susan Guinard
Annamae Guinivan
Marcia Gulish
Arch L. Gunnett
Terry Hagerty
Elizabeth Haid
Kevin M. Hamilton
Cynthia A. Hammaker
Reverend David C. Hammerle
Joyce Haney
Diane L. Harris
Kelly M. Harris
Carol A. Harten
Debbie Hawksworth
John Hawksworth
Sue Heininger
Lisa Helsel
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David S. Hess
James Hindinger
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Joanne E. Hockman
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Kimberly Hoover
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Yvonne Hosterman
Donna Houck
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Victoria L. Houseman
Cynthia Hoyer
Ann M. Hudak
Deanna Hudson
Elizabeth Hughes
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Debby Ickes
Karen W. Ickes
Patricia L. Ickes
Charlene Imler
Shanda Imler
Lisa A. James
Dr. V Janakiraman
Carla L. Jenkins
Frances Johnson
Gary J. Johnson
Janice Johnson
Karen Julian
Karen Kaczmarek
Lynn M. Karlheim
Jennifer Kasun
Kathy Kasun
Linda Kaufman
Susan C. Kaye
Michele L. Keagy
Letitia Keefe
Theresa Keefer
Sue Keirn
Patricia S. Keith
Sarah Keith
Christine L. Kelleher
Luke Kelly
Suzanne Kenawell
Sandra L. Kensinger
Ron Khoury
Debbie Kielczynski
Eleanor Kimberly
Gina M. Kirby
Anita M. Kissell
Carrol A. Koch
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Rebecca Koch
Rosemary Korhan
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Edwin Kozielec
Christa L. Kozminski
Dana Kratzer
Edward Kreuz, Jr.
Bernadette A. Krug
Louise Krug
Angela M. Kruis
Barbara Kuhn
Paula Kuhns
Bonnie L. Kuny
Paula Kustenbauder
Judy E. Kuzupas
Patricia A. Lahr
Carol Laird
Ellen M. Lambert
Georgia Lauer
Andrea Laurer
Breanna Layo
Lori A. Lear
Diane Lechene
Ann I. Lechner
Robin Lefort
Vicki Lego
Kathleen L. Lenhart
Michael G. Letcher
Zhenhui Li
Monica Liebal
Brenda L. Lightner
Mark Lipitz
Kim Livingston
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Kathy Lower
Angela L. Lubert
Debra Lucas
Jamie Luciano
Tationia J. Lykens
Betsy Lynch
Kathleen A. Lynch
Greg Madison
Dolores Maher
Michael J. Maiocco
Merlann Malloy
John Mancinelli
Neal Maneval
Victoria Mann
Lori Manners
Jacqueline G. Markle
Linda E. Martin
Daniel W. Mason
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Myschel Maurer
Christina Mayall
Carol L. Mayhue
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Don McCaulley
Debbie McClellan
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Tonya Meck
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Janet M. Metz
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Mary Ann Michaels
Ann Miller
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Melinda Miller
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Mark Mitchell
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and William H. Moses
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Joyce M. Orner
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Steven Ott
Diane A. Ozog
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Dr. and Mrs. Rashmikant S. Pandit
Mark Paris
Cheryll A. Partner
Stacey Patterson
Vicky R. Patterson
Maureen Payne
Mary J. Pearson
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Tessa Peterman
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Theresa Pfeffer
Anthony Phillips
Sherry A. Piper
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Patti K. Plummer
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Ann Prugar
Kevin L. Pruznak
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Sue Rabish
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Naomi Rajnish
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Faye Ray
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Wendy Rettburg
Mark A. Rhodes
Deanna Richardson
Clayton C. Rickens
John Rizzo
Mary A. Roberts
Cindey L. Robertson
Christine W. Robinson
Rexenne Y. Robinson
James M. Robuck
Laura L. Rodriquez
Elizabeth Rogers
Carole Roman
Lovell Roman
Sharon L. Roscia
Patricia Rose
Patricia A. Ross
Tracey Roth
Attorney James S. Routch
Lisa M. Ruffley
Sharon A. Rydbom
John Rys
Debra A. Sadler
Leslee Sady
Dr. Manickam Sankaran
Joanne K. Sassano
Alma E. Scanlan
Mark Schimminger
Sandra L. Schirf
Rosemarie M. Schmitt
Sarah Schorner
Ellen C. Schraff
Helen F. Seidel
Amy B. Seltzer
Deb Semanchik
Tiffany Semanchik
Diana L. Seymour
Don M. Sgro
Dana J. Shade
William Shaffer
Bonnie Shaner
Wendy Shaner
Tina T. Sheetz
Dolores Shellenberger
Mary A. Shields
Dianne L. Shover
Linda S. Shultz
Cecelia Shura
Barbara A. Sickles
Tammy Sigrist
Debbie A. Simpson
Marjorie D. Simpson
Pamela K. Simpson
Sheri L. Simpson
Ruth A. Slippey
Joanne Sloan
Heather Slowik
Tonya Smarsh
Loretta Smearmen
Brenda Smith
Ellen Smith
Jamie S. Smith
Mary A. Smith
Patricia Smith
Robert J. Smith
Christy Snyder
Sherri Snyder
Vicki Snyder
Carolyn L. Sollenberger
Dan Solomon
Michelle Solt
Denise E. Sottile
Jennifer Spiridigliozzi
Nancy Spradling
Catherine Sprouse
Jessica Sprowls
Sharon Squillario
Frances Stanslaw
Connie A. Steinbeiser
Deborah Steinbugl
Grace Steinbugl
Michelle Stevens
Cora L. Stever
Terri L. Stewart
Anne T. Stoltz
Gail R. Stoltz
Trisha Storm
Nicole Stotler
Alice M. Straw
Kelli Straw
Robert W. Strawser
Lorma Strohm
Bonnie J. Sultage
Suni Susko
Dr. Kathleen E. Sweeney, D. O.
Patti K. Sweet
Cindie Taylor
Cecelia Teeter
Kathryn Terlinsky
Maria Thomas
Michele Thompson
Nicole Thompson
Sandra R. Thompson-Colyer
Sister Mary Aquinas Tolusciak
Mary E. Tyler
Deanna Van Vlack
Tracy Vandevander
Paula Vansickel
Shirley Varner
Kathy J. Vincent
Brenda L. Vinglish
Judith Vyhonsky
Debra A. Wagner
Sandra Wagner
Tracey Waite
Karen Walker
Judy Walter
Linda Walters
Nicole Wannett
Angela Ward
Stephanie M. Warmath
Sheryl A. Watt
Emma Weakland
Judith K. Weaver
Michelle Weaver
Ruth B. Weaver
Elisabeth Weger
Cindy Weight
Claudia Weise
Judith Welsh
Stephanie Wertz
Susan Wertz
Carol A. Wess
Karen Westrick
Diana Wicker
Charlene Wilinski
Cathy Wilk
Don Williams
Helen G. Willnecker
9
Frances M. Wilson
Brittany Wilt
Catherine A. Wilt
Kathleen M. Winter
Monica Wojno
Traci Wombacher
Tammy L. Worley
Shawn Wyant
Christine Wyland
Christina Wyrwas
Deborah A. Yartin
Linda Yastro
Courtney M. Yogus
Sandy Young
Mary L. Zabinsky
Mike Zabinsky
Carol R. Zamboni
Dennis J. Zeak
R. Thomas Zeek
Christen Zendek
Barry Zernick
Tracey Zimmerman
Charles R. Zorger
Gary Zuckerman
In Honor of
In honor of Carol Carrado
Karen C. Carrado-Knote
In honor of Charlotte Dawson
Mr. and Mrs. Drew M. Appleman, Jr.
In honor of Marla Hoover
Martin J. Marasco
In honor of Gretchen W. Sell
Deborah D. Auker
In Memory of
In memory of Dorothy Hoover
Judith M. Hoover
In memory of Judith A.
Musselman
Ms. Tempie E. Musselman
In memory of Delores Weston
Anonymous
General
Anonymous (4)
Ms. Connie Chronister
Ms. Kimberly J. Corle
Dembert & Hoyne, CPA
Mrs. Cindy Gardner
Cindy Gates
Paul Hazi Photography
Dr. George Hromnak
Kimberly Irwin
Mary Jordan Fleck Trust
Ericka L. Kalp
Ms. Patricia S. Keith
Ada M. Llewellyn
Mrs. Yvonne M. Madey
Mr. and Mrs. Ronald J. McConnell
Mrs. N. K. Moyer
The Bob Perks Cancer Assistance
Fund
Prudential Financial - Greater Allegheny Agency
Mr. Richard Reeder
Heather L. Roh
Mrs. Caterina Rubine
Starfleet Productions
Mrs. Geraldine F. Stevens
Ms. Vicki L. Wertz, Esq.
In Honor of
In honor of Charles Zorger
Mr. and Mrs. Donald Devorris
In Memory of
In memory of Barner Children
and Grandchildren
Mr. and Mrs. James W. Barner
In memory of Thomas Conrad
Mr. and Mrs. R. Lee Hite
In memory of Brenton F. Croll
Lisa Steward
In memory of Frank “Dutch”
Elling
Ms. Mary J. Campolong
In memory of Daniel and
Thomas Fanelli
Mrs. Mary C. Fanelli
In memory of Grace Feoeli
Linda A. Hippo
In memory of Tara M. Gabrielson
Gina Zabrosky
In memory of Paul J. Kelly
Mrs. Valerie L. Brumbaugh
In memory of Clara Kimmel
Anonymous
In loving memory of Lewis
Kopac
Annetta M. Conway
In memory of Lewis Kopac
Mr. Edward Anderson
Garrett Coleman
Mr. and Mrs. Richard L. Kalin
Betty J. Katich
Christopher M. Kazmaier
Mr. Rick A. Lombard
Jane F. Lynn
Roseann Madden
Mr. Felix J. Mariani
ProCare Health Systems, Inc.
JoEllen Steinbrunner
George V. Stoffel and Family
Ms. June Stroman
Mr. and Mrs. Robert A. Szeyller
In memory of my dear wife Jeanne F. Kunes
Mr. Robert L. Kunes
In memory of William Little
Lucille Gehret
In memory of Stephanie
Lonergan
John Tocarchick
In memory of Thomas C.
Mussleman
Ms. Frances Musselman
In memory of Joy K. Peters
Friends of Joy Peters
In memory of Helen Rosch
Mr. and Mrs. Ronald J. McConnell
In loving memory of J. Carolyn Routch
David W. Gustafson
In memory of J. Carolyn Routch
Mr. and Mrs. James W. Barner
Mrs. Valerie L. Brumbaugh
Mr. and Mrs. David J. Davies
Miss Patricia M. Gildea
Heather A. Harrington
Mr. and Mrs. R. Lee Hite
Jubelirer, Carothers, Krier &
Halpern
Mr. and Mrs. Ronald J. McConnell
Mr. Stephen S. Mellott
Dr. and Mrs. Carroll P. Osgood, Jr.
The Honorable Thomas G. Peoples, Jr.
Mr. and Mrs. Neil Port
Mr. and Mrs. Robert F. Schmidt
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph J. Stevens
In memory of Alex Sagaities
Mrs. Dorothy J. Sagaities
In memory of Ruth Scott
Mrs. Valerie L. Brumbaugh
Dr. and Mrs. Robert E. Wertz
In memory of Phyllis Shade
Latta Grove United Methodist
Church
In memory of Josephine Stein
Monsignor Timothy Stein and
Elizabeth Kinley
In memory of Loretta Thompson
Mr. William B. Thompson
In memory of Gerald T. Treece
Dorothy M. Treece
In memory of Addie Wimer
Mr. Kenneth C. Novak
In memory of Tony Zsifkov
Mr. David M. Cuzzolina
How
to give
Through a variety of tax-deductible options, donors are
encouraged to make unrestricted gifts for programs
and services where the need is most urgent. Gifts to
Altoona Regional Health System are tax-deductible as
allowed by law and directly impact the well-being of the
thousands of patients and families we touch each year.
As a donor to Altoona Regional, you have the opportunity
to make a difference for your friends, neighbors and family
in the community.
If you would like to make a gift to Altoona Regional
Health System, please contact the Foundation for
Life at 814.889.6406, visit www.altoonaregional.org/
gift_ giving or use the donor envelope provided.
Creating a loved one’s lasting legacy
Over the past 24 years, the Garner-Johnson Memorial
Lecture Fund has educated nurses free or at little cost
on various important medical topics — all because its
benefactress wanted to carry on the memories of her late husband and sister.
John W. Johnson and Catherine N. Garner both died of
cancer. Through their illnesses, Miriam Johnson cared
for them by taking them to doctor appointments and
arranging for home nursing visits. At various points, both received care at what was then Mercy Hospital.
“Mercy was always our hospital,” said Miriam, whose
family grew up in the area of 2nd Avenue and 22nd Street
in Altoona. “If we had to be hospitalized, that is where we went.”
To recognize that long relationship and her appreciation
for the outstanding care her family received over the
years, Miriam, now 89, established the named legacy fund honoring her sister and husband. The Altoona
Regional Health System Foundation for Life acts in
Miriam’s interest by ensuring that the intent of the fund is fulfilled. Garner-Johnson money offsets some of the
costs of continuing education for the nursing staff.
Miriam Johnson
with photos of
her and her husband
How to leave a Legacy
With a little planning, you can continue to make a difference for your loved ones, friends
and neighbors beyond your own lifetime with a planned gift to benefit Altoona Regional
Health System.
How you can help Altoona Regional through the Foundation for Life
•Prepare a will. Only half of us have one, and
without a will you may lose control of your
assets.
•Leave us a specific dollar amount or
percentage of your assets.
• Consider using assets such as stocks and
bonds as a charitable gift to us. They may
provide estate tax savings.
• Name our Foundation for Life as a beneficiary
of your pension plan, IRA or life insurance
policy.
•Remember loved ones with memorial gifts.
•Encourage family and friends to leave gifts in their wills.
• Ask your financial advisor for guidance and to include charitable giving to the
Foundation for Life.
10
Lasting community impact
“Miriam’s very generous and selfless donation came as
she sought ways to honor her loved ones while positively
impacting community health care,” said Ann Benzel,
foundation chairperson. “Establishing a named endowment or legacy fund is a fine
example of how grateful patients and their family members may make lifelong gifts.
“The Garner-Johnson fund demonstrates the positive, lasting impact a gift to the
Foundation for Life can have on so many lives.”
While Catherine died in 1981 from ovarian cancer and John followed in 1986 from
prostate cancer, their legacy lives through this fund. Miriam and Catherine were longtime
educators with the Altoona Area School District, with 70 years of service between them.
With their education backgrounds, Miriam thought it would be most appropriate to
endow an annual program to further educate nurses — those people who proved so
helpful to her loved ones.
Enhancing nursing skills
“The purpose is to try and increase the skills of nurses with hospice or critically ill
patients in an area where often it’s not clear-cut how to handle a particular circumstance
that may arise and how to handle it with the family,” she said. “Through a program, they may learn to have a little better understanding of what a patient and family are going through.”
That’s exactly what Annette Romani, R.N., BSN, learned. She provides care on the
medical oncology nursing floor to cancer and end-of-life care patients and attended the
Quality of Life seminar in 2009.
“The seminar validated what I know in my heart: that nursing is the gentle art of caring,”
Annette said. “It also energized me to continue focusing on the patient holistically and
caring for the patient with respect and dignity by making sure to respect their wishes.”
For more information on how to make a lasting gift to recognize a loved one,
living or deceased, please contact the Foundation for Life office at 814.889.6406.
6
Surgery
Joanne Edmiston of Altoona woke up one morning and
discovered a small growth on the outside of her right
nostril. She ignored it for two years while it grew to the
size of a plump blueberry.
repairs
Why?
Procedure required two surgeries
Dr. Gonzalez decided he would need two surgeries. The first removed the tumor with a 4-inch-wide circular
incision. The tissue was sent to pathology to see if a “clear
margin” of only cancer-free skin remained on his scalp.
The tumor removal was outpatient surgery that took 90
minutes. Six days later, Randy’s second surgery took
seven hours.
“I thought it would go away, but it kept getting bigger,”
said the 70-year-old great-grandmother of three.
extensive
skin
Randy Clever felt similarly about the quarter-sized raised
spot on top of his balding head — until the spot began
getting small holes in it.
Dr. Gonzalez needed the assistance of neurosurgeon
James Burke, M.D., Ph.D., to ensure a clear margin. Dr. Burke had to remove the fibrous sheath over the
exposed skull that contained blood vessels and nerves
and rasp down the outer part of the bone.
“It wasn’t painful, but other people started to get real
concerned,” he said. “My wife, Diane, was especially
concerned, and that’s why I got it checked. I discovered it in March and got it checked in May.”
cancer
Both cases were skin cancer
damage
Both Randy and Joanne had skin cancer and required
extensive reconstructive surgery, done by Altoona
plastic surgeon Roberto Gonzalez, M.D., of Blair Medical
Associates.
“I required Dr. Burke’s expertise to go deeper. He
specializes in surgeries of the brain, and I wanted to make
sure we had removed all of the cancer,” Dr. Gonzalez said.
Dr. Gonzalez then took a 10- to 12-inch long strip of tissue
from Randy’s thigh and used the skin, fat and covering of
the thigh muscle, called fascia, to close the scalp wound
using microsurgical techniques.
“These were two of the most complicated surgeries that
can be done,” said Dr. Gonzalez, adding that both cases
illustrate the importance of having skin changes checked
by a physician sooner rather than later. “Generally,
the smaller the growth, the smaller the scar. These
reconstructions were very complex.”
Second case followed similar path
Joanne’s path to Dr. Gonzalez’s practice was strikingly
similar: A visit to the dermatologist, a biopsy and a referral.
She also required two surgeries.
In her first, the 3-centimeter tumor and surrounding tissue
were removed. Six days later, Dr. Gonzalez, using her left
nostril as a pattern, cut a flap with a blood supply from her forehead to rebuild the nostril.
For Joanne, it meant rebuilding half her nose; for Randy, closing a gaping, disfiguring hole in the top of his head.
And, how does a flap of skin become a nostril?
Randy, 51, of McConnellsburg, Fulton County,
consulted with an Altoona dermatologist who
suspected skin cancer and referred him to a
general surgeon, Dr. Matthew Newlin,
for a biopsy.
“That’s the artistic part of the whole thing,” Dr. Gonzalez
said, explaining that it’s done with strategic placement of
stitches.
The biopsy confirmed skin cancer.
Because there would not be
enough scalp to close the
sizable incision necessary
to remove all the cancer, Dr. Newlin
referred Randy to
Dr. Gonzalez.
Joanne Edmiston
“I get so many compliments,” Joanne said. “Dr. Gonzalez
did such a wonderful job.”
Both patients will take a year to heal fully and will be
monitored closely for several years for recurrences.
Both cases
illustrate the
importance
of having
skin changes
checked by
a physician
as soon as
possible
Contact:
Roberto Gonzalez, M.D.
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
Blair Medical Associates
Station Medical Center
1414 9th Ave., Altoona
946.1655
Roberto
Gonzalez, M.D.
Joanne: Before
6 months After
Randy: Before
11
2 weeks After
Altoona Hospital Campus
620 Howard Avenue
Altoona, PA 16601-4804
A nonprofit community health care system
Non-Profit
Organization
U.S. Postage
PAID
Altoona Regional
Health System
Change Service Requested
A S K T H E SPE C I A LIST
Timothy A. Lucas, M.D., is medical director of the Institute for Sleep Medicine at Altoona Regional Health System.
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Are naps wasteful?
Sure. Keep your bedroom only for sleep. It’s not for hobbies or surfing the Internet or
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Do older people require less sleep?
The attitude in the United States is that naps are not acceptable for adults. However,
in Europe and south of our border, naps are
perfectly accepted. People need seven to nine
hours of quality sleep, and if you’re not getting
that, a nap is fine, provided it’s early in the day.
The problem is too many people nap late in the
day, after 3 or 4 p.m. or in the evening at 7 or
8 p.m., and then it resets the circadian rhythm
(your internal clock) and you can’t get to sleep
at night. If you are going to nap, do it early in
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watching TV. Keep to a sleep schedule even on weekends,
with maybe a one-hour variance for weekends.
Also, have a bedtime ritual directed toward sleep, get
exercise early in the day, every day, and get some sunlight
daily. Avoid caffeine after lunch, alcohol and smoking.
Create a soothing atmosphere: a dark, quiet room at
a comfortable temperature. Relax before bedtime. Be
mindful of things that can be disruptive, like watching TV,
reading or surfing the Web.
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Dr. Lucas, who is board certified in sleep medicine, specialized in the field because he trained at Hershey
Medical Center, which has a renowned sleep medicine center.
“I found sleep disorders to be quite interesting and different, yet sometimes related to pulmonary medicine,”
he said. “Some of my formal training in sleep medicine was from Dr. Anthony Kales, who is very well known
for defining the stages of sleep.”
In addition to being medical director of the Institute for Sleep Medicine, Dr. Lucas practices at Altoona Lung
Specialists, 801 Howard Ave., Altoona; phone 814.946.2845.
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