1

Dear Fellow Volunteers: As we look forward to the new year, I hope everyone had a great holiday

season! I can't believe January has come and gone! What a cold month to put behind us! One bright spot in the month was welcoming students from Baylor School to attend the Martin Luther King celebration and volunteer for several hours for the Pre-Testing Department.

As we begin February and look to Spring, with all its beauty, please take a moment and think about how we volunteers affect those who come through our doors from all walks of life. I want to thank each of you for the exceptional job you do to help our fellow man. Rest assured that patients, family members and friends appreciate our bright smiles and helping attitudes! I'm sure your smiles warm their hearts in the middle of winter!

As I’m sure you know, we are always looking for new volunteers. We have developed a new brochure and new business cards, and our recruiting committee will be finalizing these and other recruiting plans in the next few weeks. Stay tuned!

And remember that Spring is just around the corner!

Howard Sheorn Auxiliary President

February 2018

1 Auxiliary President Howard Sheorn

Welcomes Baylor Students

2 Fundraising Report; 2018 Calendar

of Fund Raisers. Carol McCamish

and Tish Barlew

3 Lung Screening Coach Launched;

It can Save Lives.

4 Jean’s Jazz, Jean Payne,

Volunteer Services Director

5 Pictures from the Volunteers’

Christmas Luncheon

6 MLK Peace, Love, Unity Service;

IMAJ at Arts for Health Series

7 Thanking Churches That Provide

Lunches for ICU Waiting Rooms

8 Lifeline Recommended by User for

Young Women; Service Praised

9 Lifeline Volunteer Lonnie McAlister

Roughed it at Christmas

10 Meet Teresa Turner, Patient

Advocate and Color Specialist

11 PINK! Nets $400,000; Pictures Tell

the Story; Volunteers Helped

12

Hixson Highlights New Volunteers;

Outreach: Dinner with the Doctor

13 Volunteers’ Own Betsey Runyan

Wins Catherine Spalding Award

14 Red Cross Volunteer at Hixson:

Gaynelle Wigley

15 Red Cross Volunteer at Hixson:

Johnny Adams

16

Dr. Helen Kuroki, Chief Medical

Officer and Eagles Fan

17

Jack Stephenson Loves

Volunteering and Tennis

18-

19

Honoring Sister Judy Raley;

20 Blessing CHI Memorial Hamilton

Place

21

22

Blessing CHI Memorial Hospital

Georgia

Announcements; Important Dates

Comments from the Memorial Auxiliary President

Fourteen Baylor School students and three staff members volunteered at CHI Memorial on MLK day, assisting Minnie McClendon in the Pre-Testing Department. The students were Olivia Bettis, Eva Binder, Abigail Bowen, Izzy Boyd, Jeremy Brien, Isabelle Drayer, Kim Farrell, Brinley Garrison, Joshua Hart, Mandy Huang, Teddy Lepcio, Ada Ludwick, Julia Surface, and Mary Kathryne Schumaker. Baylor staff members are: Leslie Davenport, Eric Westmoreland, and Dan Scott.

2

CHI Memorial Auxiliary Board

OFFICERS SERVICE CHAIRPERSONS

President Howard Sheorn Ooltewah/Primary Health Clinics Elizabeth Phillips

Vice President Judy Hall Cancer/MEL/Cancer Resource Ctrs. Martha Adams

Corresponding Secretary Joyce Dick North Tower Info Desk/Cardiac

Services/HR/Employee Health

Charlotte Cuticchia

Recording Secretary Faye Robinson MHH Imaging/Breast Ctr/ GI Lab/

Infection Control

Vacant

Financial Officer Barbara Kramer Emergency Department/Endoscopy,

CDU/Endoscopy/Fund Raising

Tish Barlew

Parliamentarian Phyllis Parks MHH Visitor Info Desk/Registration Willie Harvey

COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSON Historian Vacant

Bylaws Phyllis Parks Surgery Services Info Desk Merle Cason

Fundraising Carol McCamish, Tish Barlew South Tower Info/Surgery Waiting Carol Bishop

Membership/Public Relations Vacant Lifeline Lonnie McCalister

Special Events/Scholarship Judy Hall Service Excellence Rounding,

Nursing Floors, Nutrition, Infection

Control, Pharmacy, Pet Therapy

Tom Norman

Outpatient Entrance/Cart Drivers Richard Hewitt

MHH Golf Carts/POB/Nursing Unite Mary Lou Vaught

Hello to All our Supportive and Wonderful Volunteers!

We hope you are ready for a new year of a few new and

several favorite vendor sales.

We ended 2017 with one of our favorite vendors - The

Masquerade $5 Sale on December 7 and 8 on both the

Hixson and Glenwood sites. Our total sales were $28,460,

and our rebate was $5,692. We appreciate that Randy Grey

with Masquerade Sales was able to accommodate the

change in location to the Ground Floor lobby due to

renovation of the Community Rooms. They kept the sale

open all night long.

Our first sale of 2018 was with Sparkle Life on January

31 at Hixson Hospital and at Glenwood on February 1 and

2, just in time for Valentine shopping. We hope you all had

the opportunity to buy something sparkly for yourself or

your valentine. We will report on results in the next issue.

Our next sale is back by popular request: Masquerade

“Around the Clock $5 Sale” at Memorial Chattanooga,

beginning March 21 at 9pm and ending March 23 at 4pm.

Dynamic Shopping will be back with everything from

cookware to sports attire on May 23-24 at the Chattanooga

Hospital and Friday, May 25 at Hixson. We look forward

to seeing you.

Respectfully submitted,

Tish Barlew and Carol McCamish

If any of you are interested in volunteering for this

exciting committee, please call Carol McCamish

at (423-580-2582) or Tish Barlew at (423-580-0620)

Auxiliary Fund Raising Report

Fund Raising Calendar for 2018

Masquerade $5 Sale “Around the Clock Sale” March 21st at 9pm to March 23rd at Chattanooga

Collective Goods April 16th & 17th at Hixson April 19th & 20th at Chattanooga

Dynamic Shopping May 25th at Hixson May 23rd & 24th at Chattanooga

Collective Goods (Warehouse Sale) July 9th & 10th at Hixson July 12th & 13th at Chattanooga

Sparkle Life Jewelry September 12th at Hixson September 13th & 14th at Chattanooga

Collective Goods October 15th & 16th at Hixson October 18th & 19th at Chattanooga

Masquerade $5 Sale December 5th at Hixson December 6th & 7th at Chattanooga

3

Memorial Unveils Mobile Lung Screening Coach

Breathe Easy Mobile Lung Screening Coach

In January Memorial introduced to Chattanooga a

Mobile Lung Screening Coach equipped with low dose

computed tomography (CT) technology that can identify

lung cancer in the early and more treatable stages. The

coach can now take this technology to people at high risk

who may not otherwise have access to a CT scan

Lung cancer is the number one cause of cancer death

in the Chattanooga area, and physicians with CHI

Memorial’s Buz Standefer Lung Center are passionate

about changing those statistics.

"Two people will die while we are in this program

tonight," said Dr. Rob Headrick, chief of thoracic surgery

at Memorial, when introducing CHI Memorial's new

Mobile Lung Screening coach to an audience at EPB, a

partner in the project to take screenings to the community.

Mr. Hodgen Mainda, EPB Vice President said, “The screening can be

delivered in less than 10 minutes, and with robust fiber optic services, those

images can be sent immediately to CHI Memorial radiology for analysis and

follow-up.

Dr. Headrick remembers when Walter Cronkite labeled Chattanooga "the

dirtiest city in the country," and how the public sector and government together

fueled a revitalization and made it one of the greenest cities in the nation. “We

can do something similar with lung cancer statistics. A simple screening can

detect it early, and that screening is now available and convenient.”

"Why do we care so much?"

Pulmonologist Carlos Baleeiro

answered that question, calling lung

cancer a killer. “It takes people much

too soon because it is found too late.

Early detection is the single most

important indicator of survival.”

The Low-Dose CT lung cancer

scan improves survival by 20 percent,

according to NCI.

Auxiliary Giving to Lung Center The Auxiliary Board voted to assist

with funding a second Interventional

Suite to provide further evaluation of

screened patients. “The Buz Standefer

Center of Excellence is busting at the

seams,” says Foundation CEO Jennifer

Nicely. “We are grateful to the

volunteers for helping us provide for

our patients.”

Who Is at High Risk?

Age 55 or greater

Smoking history

Family history of cancer

Exposure to cancer causing agents

Thoracic Surgeon Robert Headrick, Barbara Standefer, and Dr. Carlos Baleeiro, are excited about the benefits the Lung Screening Coach, one of the first in the nation, brings to Chattanooga.

Blessing the ‘Breathe Easy’ Coach

Sister Judy Raley offered a prayer

thanking God for giving us the breath

of life, breathing his Spirit into us.

She asked His blessing on the

launching of CHI Memorial’s new

opportunity to improve the early

detection and screening of lung

disease with more convenient access

through the Mobile Lung Coach.

“May all who are served through

this extension of our ministry know

your healing presence. May the

compassion and excellent care

offered by our physicians and staff

shine forth in each encounter.”

Sister Judy Raley and CHI Memorial CEO Larry Schumacher addressed guests at EPB (above) for this special event. The new coach was visible through the window.

Technologist explains the CT lung screening to Barbara Standefer and Sue Winston. The Buz Standefer Lung Center is named for Barbara’s son.

4

“Wherever you go, go with all your heart.” --Confucius

Jean’s Jazz

As we celebrate Heart Month, this quote made me think of our wonderful Volunteer Team! You all have such big and generous hearts. You are always on the “go” sharing that love with all your heart on all our campuses with everyone especially those we serve. I can’t thank you enough. It is so amazing to witness and experience all the love you share!

CHI Memorial Is Growing! Since our last newsletter, I am happy to report that

CHI Memorial’s Heart Program and The Chattanooga Heart Institute have continued to expand, and the Auxiliary made their first pledge payment to assist with the funding for the creation of a Structural Heart and Valve Center. The Chattanooga Heart Institute along with many other services will also have a presence at the new CHI Memorial Hamilton Place on Gunbarrel Road which is opening soon (see story on page 20).

We also celebrated a beautiful blessing and dedication of our new CHI Memorial Hospital Georgia on February 6 (see story on page 21). I had the opportunity to meet a couple of their wonderful volunteers. Currently there are only a few volunteers on that campus at this time. I look forward to working together to explore how we may be able to have a presence at CHI Memorial Georgia as they grow.

Sister Judy Raley Honored I am also excited to share that I had the honor and

privilege to present the Serra Club’s Lifetime Achievement Award to Sister Judy Raley as the person serving the longest in a vowed religious life in this region (see story on page 18). Sister Judy is celebrating 56 years of religious life and she one of my heroes! Sister Judy has shared her gifts and talents with us at CHI Memorial and our community for many years. Currently, she serves on the CHI Memorial Board and she is also a fantastic part of our Auxiliary and Volunteer Team.

Betsey Receives Catherine Spalding Award Our department also has some more exciting news!

Our terrific Betsey Runyan was recently honored as she was chosen to receive the Catherine Spalding Pioneer Award (see story on page 13). The Catherine Spalding Award recognizes associates who live the mission and core values of CHI Memorial – Reverence, Integrity,

Compassion and Excellence – in their work each day to a high degree. Betsey is most deserving in every way and I know you will join me in congratulating her for this high honor!

In closing, be on the lookout for a survey coming your way that will allow you to give us feedback about our volunteer newsletter CHATS. Please take the time to share your thoughts so we can do all we can to make sure this newsletter is helpful and of interest to you.

Also, this year our Annual Service Awards Banquet will be on Tuesday, May 22 at Abbas House in Hixson. Please mark your calendar and plan to join us! We always look forward to celebrating you!

Betsey, Vicki, and I so enjoyed honoring you and visiting

with you and your loved ones at our annual Christmas

Reception held at Notre Dame. Much love and joy was

shared as we enjoyed music and refreshments. Our

Nutrition Services and Sodexo Team outdid themselves with

all the delicious food, and Notre Dame is always a gracious

host. What a wonderful way to celebrate the holidays!

Jean under the palm tree at Pink! which raised $400,000 for the MaryEllen Locher Breast Center. (See story and pictures on page 11.)

5

Christmas Reception at Notre Dame

Enjoying the reception were several Auxiliary Board members and hospital leaders. Pictured are Sister Judy Raley, Carol McKamish, Brad Pope, Judy Hall, Faye Robinson, Howard Sheorn, Larry Schumacher, Joyce Dick, Tom Norman, and Tish Barlew.

Gene and Bobbi Burnett ; Norma and Floyd Wright

Olivia and Willie Harvey

Belinda Hardaway and her grandson Ty Hardaway

Nancy MElwain, JoAnn McGarvey, Diggy Moore, Betty Fassnacht, Norma Travis

Back: Pat Akins, Dr. Helen Kuroki, Gwen Davis, Donna Garner Front: Khadijah Muhammad, Clarence McCray, Julie Ngendo, Mary Mwathi

Brenda Tobar, Diggy Moore, and Pam Espey

What a wonderful way to start the holiday celebrations! The annual Volunteer Christmas

Reception at Notre Dame High School featured favorites like shrimp , roast beef, and carved

turkey, and specialty dishes. Hors d’oeuvres included raspberry brie in phyllo, chicken

skewers, crab cakes, fruits and melons, cheese and crackers, and vegetables with dressings.

Decorative cookies and cake pops delighted the sweet tooth, and it was all topped off with

Flamed S’mores over vanilla bean ice cream. But best of all were the smiles, hugs, and

fellowship of fellow

volunteers, staff,

and leadership.

6

Hands that Hold Up the Hands of Justice

“Thank you for the Martin Luther King legacy at CHI Memorial; thank you for Baylor School and the students here to do community service; thank you for hands that hold up the hands of Justice.”

Dr. Jeffrey Wilson’s* opening prayer (above) set the theme for the 26th annual Peace, Love and Unity Service at CHI Memorial on January 15, 2018.

“King was engaged in the community, he was on the political scene, but first and foremost, he was a minister, steeped in tradition,” Dr. Wilson said. “The Black Church was one of the first social institutions for my people. It tried to meet the needs of black people. The church was always there, especially during the Jim Crow movement.”

King died at 39, a young man, but he left wise words for us. Based on Dr. King’s life, Dr. Wilson gave four words for the audience to apply to their lives. 1. Invaluable – “Remember you are valuable; you need

to love yourself and take care of yourself. No one can do it for you.”

2. Involved – “Get involved in your church, your community, and in politics, and help make this a better place to live.”

3. Invested – “If you don’t have the education you need to do what you want, work to improve it. Invest in the things you believe are important.”

4. Invisible – Often the people behind the scenes are the ones who make things happen. They give support to those in front. In Israel’s battle with Amalek, when Moses held his arms up, Israel prevailed. Aaron and Hur supported Moses’ hands until Israel was victorious. You can work invisibly behind the scenes, supporting those in front.

*Dr. Wilson, pastor of the New United Missionary Baptist Church, follows his own advice. He has a Master’s degree and a Doctorate of Ministry in Preaching and Leadership. He has been inducted into the 2nd Cohort of the MLK Chapel of Pastoral Leadership at Morehouse College. He is involved in the community, serving on boards of CHI Memorial, and other community organizations. He has received recognition for his service to the city and state.

“I work through music toward a more

compassionate and peaceful world”

IMAJ, a multi-talented country singer-songwriter and

humanitarian, will be the featured performer at the 18th annual

Cam Busch Endowed Arts for Health Lecture on Thursday,

March 8, at the Hunter Museum of American Art.

Born in Miami Beach, Florida, to a model mother and actor

father, 80’s icon Philip Michael Thomas (Tubbs of Miami Vice), IMAJ grew up in a

“utopian environment where creativity was encouraged.”

IMAJ will share her personal journey toward diversity and peace and perform a

selection of her original music. She will also share her version of Leonard Cohen’s

“Hallelujah” sung in five languages.

She has always had an affinity for the arts, saying, “art touches you in a way that’s all-

at-once understood yet unexplainable. Writing and singing are the estuary to my love of

story and song which led to my love of traditional country music. It captivated my heart.”

In her song “Colorblind,” she uses color as a metaphor for diversity beyond just skin

color. “It’s about seeing the vitality of diversity; in our skin, in our language, our culture,

our gender, our faith. There’s an intelligence that lies beyond our antiquated fears of one

another. That intelligence is LOVE.”

Tickets are $50 and can be purchased at memorial.org/art-lecture or by calling the

CHI Memorial Foundation office at 495-4438.

Speaker Dr. Jeffry Wilson with his wife Dr. Yolanda Spraggins-Wilson and son Thomas Jeremiah are surrounded by Gwen Davis, Bob Scheri, Felicia Pierce, Tim Granger, Rayner Edwards, Darlene Black, and Karen Frank.

IMAJ

7

Providing meals

for family

members who

have a loved

one in intensive

care is a

ministry of

love. To let the

churches and

members know

they are appreciated, all were invited to a

special thank you luncheon provided by

Volunteer Services. More than 120 people

attended, representing 25 of the 45

churches currently involved in this

beautiful ministry.

Two managers from intensive care

units told the group how much their

service means to waiting family members.

“In the intensive care units, we often

see patients in crisis and loved ones who

are fearful and worried for their family

member,” Natasha McGhee, manager of

the Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit

(CVICU), told the group.

“Family members are often reluctant to

leave the waiting room for fear of missing

a chance to see the doctor or nurse, and

they greatly appreciate the lunches served

on the units. But you provide much more

than a meal. Your warm smiles and kind

words offer support and encouragement.

“Many families are here for an

extended period of time and some have

limited resources so your meals provide

needed sustenance. With each sandwich

and snack, you are spreading love and

compassion to these families. This is an

extension of what we strive to do as the

mission of Memorial, and you truly are a

blessing to Memorial.”

Brad Pope, Senior Vice President of

Human Resources, and Jean Payne,

Volunteer Services Director, also

welcomed the church members and

offered their thanks and appreciation.

Inspirational and entertaining music

was provided by Betsy Kammerdiener,

Manager of Spiritual Care at CHI

Memorial. She was accompanied by Jean

Baucom, Chaplain at Hospice of

Chattanooga. Betsy has been a chaplain at

CHI Memorial for 15 years.

Volunteer Dotty Manis is part of

“Circle of Friends,” a group of ladies at

the Silverdale Cumberland Presbyterian

Church, that brings lunch four times a

year, and she finds it very rewarding.

“The families are so appreciative, they

go out of their way to thank us, and some

have even given us donations, which we

never solicit.” Dotty says. “One man even

gave me $100, which was totally

unexpected. We used it for a special

project and wrote him a note to thank him

and tell him what we did. When we see

how much it means to them, it doesn’t

seem like we do much.”

Dotty contacts the ladies and has them

volunteer for what they want to bring.

Then she and her husband Jim and a few

of the other ladies get it all together and

bring it to the hospital.

“We usually plan for 60 and take

sandwiches, bags of chips, fruit and

cookies or Little Debbies. These are easy

for people to take on a plate,” Dotty says.

“But last week a group brought chili and

hot dogs, and some have brought soup. If

we have anything left, we take it to the

Cancer Center and offer it to people

having treatments or waiting with them.”

Administrative receptionist Tasha

Gearing schedules the churches. “Right

now, meals are provided every weekday

noon, a few evenings, and some Sundays,”

Tasha says. “We encourage more churches

to get involved to help as people are in the

waiting room on weekends, too.”

If your church would like to participate

and bring a meal once a month or

whatever is convenient for them, have

someone call Tasha at 495-7877. The

schedule is also posted at the Entrance B

Information Desk where a cart is stored to

take the food to the waiting room.

Thanking the Churches Who Serve

An enthusiastic group from New Emmanuel Baptist Church volunteers serves meals.

Jim and Dotty Manis from Silverdale Cumberland Presbyterian.

Volunteer Dianne Doyle and Virginia Haynie from Tucker Baptist Church

Natasha McGee, an ICU manager, thanked church members at the luncheon.

8

Rebecca* was only in her early 60s when she began

having pain in her hip, and she was facing surgery.

“Walking was kind of precarious,” Rebecca remembers.

“I was alone quite a bit and decided I would get a Lifeline

button just in case I fell and couldn’t get to a telephone.”

Another thing that made her consider Lifeline was the

sad experience of a friend. “He had a stroke when he was

alone at home and was not able to contact anyone. It was

three days before he was found. He survived, but is now in

a wheelchair with a feeding tube.”

“Early treatment might have allowed him be restored to

normal. If he had had Lifeline, he could have immediately

contacted help. I didn’t want to fall and have to wait until

the neighbors wondered where I was and checked on me.”

Rebecca thought she would only have Lifeline

temporarily, but she liked the reassurance it gave her.

Upgrading to GoSafe with Lifeline

“I have moved to better models during the past 10

years, and recently got the GoSafe which can respond to

me anywhere I travel in the United States,” Rebecca

explains. “When I go to the store, I wear it. If I go to the

opera or a symphony, I put it in an accessible place in my

purse. It doesn’t look like a piece of jewelry, but you can

tuck it under your clothing or carry it in a pocket or purse.”

Now that she has the GoSafe unit, Rebecca doesn’t

hesitate to get in the car and drive to Nashville to see

friends. “I know I can get help if I need it. If something

happens, the Lifeline staff can talk to me through the ‘fob’

or pendant, and I can tell them what the problem is.”

They Know Where You Are

“If I did not answer, they would send help. They can

figure out with their six locator programs exactly where I

am and send help to the right place.”

“I think young women living alone should consider it as

a safety and security precaution - like locking your doors.”

How Lifeline Detects a Fall

CHI Memorial’s Lifeline is the only medical alert

service in the area with AutoAlert fall-detection

technology. Unique sensors measure changes in a person’s

height and orientation and the velocity of those changes.

These sensors can tell the difference between normal

sitting and standing up and a sudden change in orientation

that indicates a fall and activates the Lifeline response.

The Rest of the Story

Rebecca was born and raised in Chattanooga, and can

trace her ancestry back to almost 1800. She lived in Canada

for 25 years, working in the manufacturing sector. “One of

my children lives in Canada now, and three live in the

United States.”

“I returned to Chattanooga to be closer to my mother as

she grew older, and I worked for an elected official in

Hamilton County Government. My personal and volunteer

interests are in the fields of history and politics.”

Rebecca’s main history activity was with the

Chattanooga History Center, and she still has hopes that the

historical collection now in storage will again be exhibited.

“Chattanooga is the only major city in the South with no

local or regional history museum, and we need one.”

*Last name withheld by request.

“Lifeline Is Safety and Security Technology” -Rebecca*

Lifeline Recommended for Young Women

Lifeline Service Excellence Appreciated; Volunteer Has Exceptional Talents

Rebecca is not only happy with the product, but also

with the excellent service. “Tessa is so accommodating on

technical concerns or billing questions. She and her staff

are quick and efficient with installation. I want to

compliment the way the system works.”

Volunteer Lonnie McCalister has been installing

Lifeline units since 2007, after retiring early from

Lee University where he conducted the Ladies of

Lee touring choir at Lee University and taught

music. Lonnie continues to use his musical talents

as Minister of Music at North Minster Presbyterian

Church and conducting a Messiah sing-along at the

Chattanooga First Seventh-day Adventist Church.

This non-denomination event, with soloists from

the Lee University faculty and orchestra from

Southern Adventist University, is a unique

opportunity for audience participation.

“The congregation is the choir, and I never

know who will be there when I turn around to

conduct the choruses,” Lonnie says. “But people

seem to love it, and it always sounds majestic.”

The 2018 Sing-Along Messiah will be December 9, at

the Chattanooga First Seventh-Day Adventist Church.

Lonnie McCalister, Lifeline volunteer, conducts the Sing-A-Long Messiah. For information on Volunteer Discounts on Lifeline, call 423-495-8774.

Photo by VE Videography

9

Lonnie McCalister grew up with adventure. His father was in con-struction and a union iron worker. He was called each summer to help with urgent national projects, like building Minuteman Missile sites.

“My brother and sister, and I were all born in Oklahoma City,” Lonnie says. “But we spent three summers in North Dakota where Dad was working. Once we even started school there. The temperature at that site got down to 40 degrees below 0 in the winter.”

Other summers they were in different locations, which has led Lonnie to have a love of traveling.

Finding temporary housing for the entire family was sometimes difficult, and one summer they lived on a sheep farm. “The farmer spoke only Norwegian.”

Lonnie has an undergraduate degree from Lee University in Cleveland, Tennessee, and a Doctor of Musical Arts in Conducting with emphasis in Choral from the University of Oklahoma. He was

Dean of Music at Lee University and did study tours in Germany and South Africa.

Lonnie has been married 15 years and has a happily blended family - two daughters, a step daughter and step son and nine grandchildren.

Adventure at Christmas At least one of Lonnie’s daughters

has inherited his love for adventure. Self-employed, she and her husband homeschool two of their children (the third is in college) and travel all over the country in an RV learning about America. Lonnie and his wife Andrea met them in Salt Lake City, where they were thrilled to hear a recital on the organ in the Mormon Tabernacle.

On Christmas Day, with snow on the ground, it took them three hours to travel from Moab 17 miles down Hurrah Pass. They slept in mud and mortar huts with dirt floors on futon mattresses. The bathroom was nearby with hot water and an outdoor shower.

For three days, they explored the desert in all-terrain vehicles, but did not see much wildlife. “Only we humans were out with temperatures ranging from single digits at night to low 20s during the day,” Lonnie says. “It was an amazing experience!”

Born to a Life of Adventure; Roughing it at Christmas

The Adventurers included (right to left) Lonnie, Andrea, daughter Amy, granddaughter Ava, and grandsons Grayson and Preston Hodges.

The Hogans where they slept were made of mud and logs with dirt floors. “The mattresses were comfortable, and we came prepared.”

The road down Hurrah Pass was steep and treacherous, but beautiful

Greg and Amy Hodges stand on cliff’s edge above the rocky canyon.

Lonnie McCalister and his wife Andrea

10

By the time Teresa Turner, one of the

newest Patient Advocates at CHI Memorial,

was 17, she was licensed as a cosmetologist

and knew she wanted to specialize in custom

hair coloring.

Specializing in Custom Hair Coloring

"Hair coloring is a science and an art, and I

love it. I talk to my clients to gain an

understanding of what they want and visualize

the color we want," she explains. "Then I go

into my work room. It's like a chemistry lab. I

mix different colors to get the exact shade or

shades I want. Sometimes I put three colors on

in different layers to give a natural look."

Teresa has been self-employed as a Hair

Colorist for 33 years.

Teresa and her husband David Turner met

15 years ago through mutual friends. Both in their 30s, they

knew what they wanted. They dated a few months, got

married and by the time of their first anniversary, they were

parents of twins - a boy and a girl.

"We've loved having children, and have put our focus

on the family," Teresa says. "I have been able to schedule

my hours around the twin's school schedules and on some

evenings or weekends when David is home." David works

as Logistic Manager at Miller Industries in Ooltewah,

which is an international towing equipment manufacturing

company, sending huge machinery all over the world.

When the twins were two years old, Teresa attended a

class in hair coloring. "There were 45 in the class, and

I was one of seven chosen for a scholarship to a hair

coloring program in Bologna, Italy. It was a wonderful

experience - seven days of intensive study and

practice. I felt honored and grateful that I had decided

to carve my niche out in hair coloring."

The twins Anna and Will are 14 years old now.

They are honor students at East Hamilton Middle

school "majoring in social activities, like their

mother," she says with pride. "But they don't need me

at home as much as they used to, and working at the

hospital gives me some extra money and much

satisfaction."

Loving the Challenge of Patient Advocacy

Interestingly, the skills Teresa learned in business

are similar to the ones she needs as a Patient Advocate

in Cardiac Short Stay. "I've had to learn to keep up

with several clients at a time, remember their

preferences, manage scheduling, phone calls, and

interruptions - and always put the customer first."

"At the desk some days, we have 40 patients, and I have

to keep up with the family members, recognize them when

they come to the desk, and remember their loved one. I

have phone calls coming in and people stopping to ask

directions. I really love it; it is rewarding to be able to help

them through what can be a frightening heart procedure."

"David and I know our children won't be home many

more years, and we are making the most of our time with

them. I am blessed now to have work that is also very

rewarding."

Meet Teresa Turner, Patient Advocate

Liz Lindstrom’s on-site painting of “A Night in Old Havana” was auctioned at Pink!

Teresa and David Turner with twins Will and Anna

11

“A Night In Old Havana” was the theme of the 13th annual Pink! Gala chaired by Dr. Taylor and Tiffany Whaley and Dr. Tom and Susan Flanagan. The event broke records, netting $400,000 for the MaryEllen Locher Breast Centers with more sponsors joining the effort. Funds will be used to help expand to a fourth MEL Breast Center with advanced technology at CHI Memorial Hamilton Place

Cuban cuisine by the Chattanooga Trade Center and tropical décor set the scene. A tropical swing band entertained early and late in the Survivor’s Lounge, and on stage, Party on the Moon brought the crowd to its feet. Items featured at the silent and live auction included a Jamaican vacation and other travel experiences, art work, dinner parties, fashion, jewelry, and even a refrigerator.

Sodexo showcased Cuban fare for the Pink! Pre-Party at the Turnbull Building, a new event venue that once housed the Turnbull Cone and Machine Company that in the 1970s could make over one million ice cream cones in a day.

From The Foundation Jennifer Nicely, Foundation President

Betsy Ranalli and her Australian Labradoodle at the Pre-Party convinced CEO Larry and Casey Schumacher to cast the winning bid on a puppy from the same breeder.

Foundation President Jennifer Nicely is grateful to sponsors, planners, and volunteers who helped put it all together. Debby Williams (above right) was one of a group of volunteers setting tables. At right at the Pre-Party , Nutrition Services Director Lester Poe shows Stephanie Cooper how to grill the Cuban sandwiches.

A $160,000 BMWi8 graced the entrance to the Tropical Island of Pink. Volunteers setting up (right) included Jean Payne, Joyce Dick, Vicki Guthrie, Dianne Anderson, Rich and Barbara Kramer, Tish Barlew, and Carol McCamish.

Becky and Brad Pope, Carol and Steve Newton, Tom and Lisa McCluskey and Bob Scheri and wife Jane Franz pose at Pink!

12

We trust that you had a very blessed time with family

and friends during the Thanksgiving and Christmas

holidays. We sincerely appreciate your service and

dedication to Memorial through the extremely cold days

we’ve had thus far in the New Year. I would like to share

some exciting new happenings at CHI Memorial Hixson.

New Volunteers: We are blessed to have a few new

faces serving our Hixson community. We are happy to

welcome each one mentioned below.

Front Information Desk, Hospital Lobby: Connie Giles,

John Sims

Administration, POB Lobby: Ruby Martin

Shuttle Service: Jim O’Connell (also Eucharistic

Minister), John Sims , Larry Steed

Imaging: Merry Hartman, Janie Potter

Physician Updates: Physicians new to our Hixson

campus and located in our Hixson Professional Office

Building are Dr. Robert Jean, General Surgery, with

University Surgical Associates and Dr. Christina

Parkhurst, General Surgery, with CHI Memorial. Dr.

Erica Clark, General/Vascular Surgery, with University

Surgical Associates (U.S.A), is also now at Hixson and

sharing an office in the Professional Office Building. A

new member of our CHI Memorial Breast Care

Associates is Dr. Nicole Walker, located in our

MaryEllen Locher Breast Center at Hixson.

Administration Office Updates: I want to share that

Sherry Thompson, aka Nurse Thompson, in Nursing

Administration, has moved to day shift and is located in

the Hixson Administrative Office. Pam Hendricks,

Administrative Assistant, has returned to Hixson

Administration, and is working part-time Tuesday

through Thursday. Mary Mwathi, Executive Assistant,

has returned to the Chattanooga campus to assist in

Cancer Services.

Community Outreach: We are happy to introduce to

you our “Breathe Easy” lung CT scanning mobile bus.

Hixson Highlights Catholic Health Initiatives:

Deb Moore, Administrator of CHI Memorial Hospital Hixson Vice President of Oncology Services

Happy 2018 to Everyone!

This free Community Health Event is co-sponsored

by CHI Memorial Hixson at the North River Civic

Center. Each event includes a cooking demonstration

and a special speaker who is focused on helping you

understand how to prevent and even reverse disease.

You Are Invited!

Monday, February 19—Understanding the

Heart and Lifestyle Steps to Heart Health

Monday, March 19—Preventing and

Treating Diabetes without Breaking the Bank

ADMISSION IS FREE

RESERVATIONS ARE NOT REQUIRED

This will give greater screening opportunities to people in

outlying areas with decreased access to healthcare as well

as to industries like the carpet and trucking industries.

Lung cancer is the number one cancer killer. The goal is

to decrease the death and cancer rates with early

detection.

Patients that qualify for a low dose lung CT screening:

Have a history of heavy smoking.

Smoke now or have quit within the past 15 years

Are between 55 and 80 years old.

IF you are not sure you or a loved one qualify,

CALL 495-LUNG

I sincerely want to thank each and every one of you

that give of yourself to help CHI Memorial carry out a

mission that is so vital to our

communities. I pray that you stay well

and warm during this cold and flu

season.

Blessings,

Deb Moore

13

Volunteers and staff cheered when Betsey Runyan, Manager of Guest Services, was chosen to receive the Catherine Spalding Award for living the value of Reverence, Integrity, Compassion, and Excellence. “Betsey is so deserving of this reward; she has an amazing way of making everyone feel special and valued. She creatively and joyfully ministers to others, allowing her love for God, people, and life to shine through,” Jean Payne, Director of Volunteer Services, wrote on the nominating form “Like Catherine Spalding, Betsey has a pioneering spirit, always watching for ways to make the world a better and more loving place. She is not afraid to introduce or try a new idea, especially if it will help others. To me, Betsey is the hands and feet of Jesus here on earth continuing His ministry. I am honored and privileged to work alongside her and thrilled that she has received this award,” Jean adds. Rich and Barbara Kramer wrote: “Betsey is a person who continually looks at how things

are, and then looks for ways to make them better. She has an innate sense of being a leader, while at the same time wanting to lift up those she serves and let herself fade into the background.”

Howard Sheorn said, “I’ve witnessed her willingness to solve a patient’s dilemma when he and a family member arrived a day early for tests in the Guerry Heart and Vascular Center. The patient had traveled a long distance, and Betsey went out of her way to get the schedule changed and the tests completed that day to avoid another trip.” Jean gives an example of Betsey’s compassion, concern, and desire to comfort involving a volunteer with aggressive cancer. “Betsey was faithful in visiting the family during infusion treatments, seeing their anxiety and

fear. She ordered “Super Hero” costumes – Superman, Batman, and Wonder Woman. Our department of three dressed up in costume and went to the infusion treatment room. We told them they were our superheroes and danced and swirled around. They loved it, and it was a joy to lift their spirits and bring joy. Betsey led the effort for the ‘Cape Crusaders’ to visit other patients and the waiting rooms. It changed the atmosphere.”

The Sanzo family called Jean to brag on Betsey. “She is a sweetheart to everyone. Her delightful spirit and cheery disposition made waiting a pleasure. It is a joy to watch her interact with everyone and make them feel better. On a scale of 10, she is a 12.”

Other award winners are: Lori Rogers, Education Office Coordinator; Suteadre (Tee) Marshall, OR Materials; and Sherry Thompson, Nursing Administration at CHI Memorial Hixson.

Always involved and supportive, Betsey has fun with Rich and Barbara Kramer at Memorial’s Color Chattanooga Pink event.

Betsey (center) formed The Cape Crusaders to bring joy and comfort to patients and waiting family members.

Totally surprised, with joyful tears, Betsey poses with volunteers and co-workers who offered congratulations and rejoiced with her on receipt of the award.

Betsey Surprised, Humbled, Honored; One of

Four to Receive Catherine Spalding Award

Betsey’s surprise is evident as she walks with Jean into a room of friends ready to award her recognition.

14

Gaynelle Wigley Joined 27 Years Ago

Red Cross at CHI Memorial Hixson

The youngest of seven children, her

parents had run out of names by the

time Gaynelle came along. One of her

older sisters told a Singing School

teacher about the new baby without a

name, and the teacher said, “Name her

Gaynelle. That’s a pretty name.”

Gaynelle’s parents were farmers

near Geraldine, Alabama, a small town

in northeast Alabama. “If you blink

your eyes, you will miss it,” says

Gaynelle, who went to school in

Geraldine and married her high school

sweetheart Charles Wigley.

They moved to Red Bank, and

Charles worked for Dupont for several

years and then at Nabisco. Gaynelle

worked at Volunteer State Life – until

she got pregnant. At that time, the

company did not allow pregnant

women to work there.

Wanting to stay home anyway with

her new baby girl, Gaynelle didn’t

mind. She and Charles had two

daughters, and when the girls went to

school, Gaynelle worked for a while at

Railway Express and then for World

Book Encyclopedia, which had an

office in Chattanooga. When Gaynelle

retired in 1990, her boss also retired,

and they closed the office in

Chattanooga.

Volunteering at American Red Cross

“I had always planned to join the

Red Cross, so when I retired and

learned they needed volunteers, I

decided this was the time,” Gaynelle

says. “They placed me at North Park

Hospital, where all the volunteers were

from the Red Cross. That was 27 years

ago. Today they don’t have many Red

Cross volunteers in hospitals, and we

have a hard time finding uniforms.”

She has seen many changes since

Memorial purchased the hospital and

especially appreciates the many

medical advances and the many good

friends she has made, working in

several different areas.

“I was working in the Emergency

Department in 2010 and kept telling

my husband that we needed more help,

and he finally decided to do it. He

volunteered for about six years before

he died in 2016 and enjoyed it.”

Church, Hospital, Friends Support

When Charles died, Gaynelle

had wonderful support from

friends at the hospital and at

Brooks Memorial United

Methodist Church in Lupton

City where she and Charles

had attended since 1956.

“I met Diana Smith when

she was a volunteer in ER

with me, and she also attends

Brooks Memorial. She has

become my right arm, and

especially helps now since I

can’t drive at night.”

Gaynelle enjoys helping

church members with the

Apple Butter Fest Diana and

her husband started at Brooks

Memorial United Methodist

Church several years ago.

“The church has a huge

copper-lined pot, and we cook

the apple butter over a

campfire. Church members peel and

cut up the apples and add them to the

kettle. Then we steam can the apple

butter and sell it for special projects. It

is delicious, and the community looks

forward to it during apple season.”

Volunteering in Imaging Services

Gaynelle now volunteers one day a

week in Imaging Services, and she

loves it. “I like having contact with

patients and the staff. And I like to be

moving. I am on my feet almost the

entire shift, taking patients where they

need to be.”

The Wigley daughters are grown

up. One lives in Maryville and one in

Stockridge, Georgia, in the Atlanta

Metropolitan area. Gaynelle has three

grandchildren, and one great-

grandchild with another expected in

March.

A Red Cross Volunteer for 27 years, Gaynelle Wigley holds her great-grandson Brendan Bailey.

Gaynelle helps can apple butter at the Apple Butter Fest at Brooks Memorial United Methodist Church. Memorial volunteer Diana Smith, sitting by the copper kettle, helped start the Fall tradition.

February is Black History Month Black History Month started in 1926 and expanded in the 1970s. Carter

Woodson, son of former slaves, received a Ph.D. from Harvard where he found the heritage and contributions of black Americans excluded. "If a race has no

history, it becomes a negligible factor in the thought of the world."

15

Born in Alabama, Johnny Adams

has a lifetime of cheering for the

Crimson Tide. When he was offered a

job at Volunteer State Life and moved

to Chattanooga in the 1960s, he found

himself in Big Orange country, and

decided he could cheer for them, too,

except when they play each other.

Alabama or Tennessee?

“Then I have to make a decision,”

Johnny says. But he didn’t say what his

decision was.

Air Force: Panama Canal

Johnny went into the Air Force

right after graduation from high school.

He was 19 when he was sent to the

Panama Canal as a Medic. “I worked

in the dispensary, gave a few shots and

dispensed medicine,” he says. “But

mostly it was a vacation.”

When he came back to college, he

went to Jacksonville State University

in Alabama, majoring in accounting,

and got married. After graduation, he

went to work at a national accounting

firm in Birmingham, but his wife was

still taking classes at Jacksonville.

“She heard about a recruiter coming

to the University from Volunteer State

Life, talked to an instructor, and they

set up an appointment for me with the

recruiter.” The position in Chattanooga

was promising, and they moved.

“We had three girls, and my wife

stayed home with them until they were

almost through school. Then she taught

for a while. She died in 1983.”

One of his daughters still lives in

Chattanooga, one is in Knoxville, and

one in Nashville. He has three

grandchildren.

After Retirement

Johnny first thought about

volunteering when talking to a visitor

at Oakwood Baptist Church some 15

years ago. “I found out about her work

at the American Red Cross and their

need for volunteers. I told her I would

volunteer if she would keep going to

church.” Johnny kept his side of the

bargain. He doesn’t know if she kept

going to church.

As a Red Cross volunteer, he was

assigned to work at CHI Memorial

Hixson. “Memorial already owned the

hospital, and they had begun making

improvements, which I have really

seen in the Emergency Room. I really

like volunteering. I get lots of exercise

escorting patients, and I meet lots of

people.”

Johnny still lives in the same house

and takes care of the yard. He likes to

hike and bike and sit in his recliner.

Johnny Adams, Alabama & Tennessee Fan

Red Cross at CHI Memorial Hixson

Johnny Adams and his daughters: Tresa, a math teacher, Twila, an RN, and Tamela, a special ed teacher.

Johnny often hikes at the Nature Park at the Volkswagen Plant.

Volunteers in Fitness Program Now Welcome at Siskin A reciprocal agreement between CHI Memorial Fitness Center and Siskin Fitness

Center now makes it possible for members to enjoy privileges at each others' facilities. Volunteers who have completed the application and orientation to CHI Memorial Fitness Center, will now be accepted for membership in the program at Siskin at no cost. Just stop by the our Fitness Center and have a Verification of Membership signed by Director Allan Lewis. He will fax it to Siskin, and you will be entered as a member. On your first visit, you will receive a key fob to scan at each visit.

The Siskin Fitness Center is open weekdays from 5am to 9pm and also on Saturday from 8am to 6pm and Sunday from 1pm to 6pm. They have a variety of equipment, an indoor and outdoor track, and a therapeutic pool. Classes scheduled throughout the week include Tai Chi, Pilates Mix, Yoga, aquatics classes, and more. The pool is also open for swimming or walking laps and for group volleyball on two evenings. A large Whirlpool is perfect for loosening up or relaxing after a workout.

To learn more about Siskin’s center, visit www. siskinrehab.org/the-fitness-center.

16

In her first year at CHI Memorial, Dr. Helen Kuroki, Chief Medical Officer, has received “eloquent advice” from volunteers and is impressed that so many volunteers have been leaders in the community.

“Mr. Harvey, a volunteer, spoke recently at a Leadership Retreat, giving us excellent advice on how to lead and reminding us to be humble in our service and ask for God’s direction,” Dr. Kuroki says. Willie Harvey had a remarkable 20-year career in the Navy and 25 years in Civil Service in management positions.

The leadership retreats are important to the CHI Memorial team which has several new members. “We learn leadership styles, preferences, and ways to work together, being ever mindful of our connection to the CHI mission and our roots with the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth.”

St. Luke’s Healer’s Hearts Award As liaison between physicians and administration,

Dr. Kuroki is pleased with the new award that recognizes physicians for their value-based care of patients at Memorial.

“Memorial had awards for nurses and employees, but none that recognized the contribution of physicians. Most physicians do not seek recognition, but when it happens, they are touched. This award is somewhat similar to the Catherine Spalding award for employees and helps connect our medical staff with the mission.”

A Second Medical Staff in Georgia With the opening of CHI Memorial Hospital Georgia

(formerly Hutcheson Hospital and Cornerstone Medical Center), Dr. Kuroki’s role has grown. In addition to the medical staff of more than 650 physicians serving CHI’s Tennessee hospitals, we now have a Georgia medical staff that started with 27 in early 2017 and has now nearly doubled. “This is CHI’s first foray into Georgia, and we expect services to grow significantly.”

Growing Up an Eagle Fan Dr. Kuroki grew up in the Philadelphia suburbs and

has always been a fan of the Philadelphia Eagles. She is happy they had their first Super Bowl win in 2018. She is also a basketball fan after attending Immaculata University, where women’s teams have made history.

After earning her medical degree, Dr. Kuroki spent six months at a hospital in Ecuador before completing a residency in OB/GYN at the University of Pennsylvania Medical School in Philadelphia.

Optimizing the Patient Experience Then, with more than 24 years experience in

obstetrics and gynecology, she decided she wanted to

do something that would help improve quality of care for all patients. This she was able to do as vice president of Medical Affairs at Riddle Memorial Hospital in Media, Pennsylvania. Her goal at CHI Memorial is to optimize quality, safety, and the patient experience.

Family Focuses on Education, Travel, Excellence Dr. Kuroki’s husband Cesar Kuroki came from Peru

on a scholarship to Villanova , and the two met at a party. “We talked together in Spanish and English, and then went our separate ways,” Helen remembers. “He didn’t know my name, but later saw my sister, who looks like me, and we got connected again.”

An engineer, he is currently vice president of Biostatistics for Covance. The Kurokis have four children ranging in age from 19-26. Monica, the oldest, is an environmental engineer in Philadelphia; Andrew, 23, is a chemical engineer and soccer player; Laura, 22, is a senior at the College of Charleston majoring in marketing and arts management, and Grace, 19, is a sophomore at Johns Hopkins studying bioengineering, with plans to become a surgeon.

In 2008, with four children at home, maintaining her OB/GYN practice, and serving as vice president at Riddle Memorial Hospital, Dr. Kuroki started back to school working on a master’s degree in Healthcare Quality and Safety at Thomas Jefferson University’s College of Population Health. “I could only take one class a term, but I finally got my degree in 2015, the oldest person at the ceremony.”

“I’m excited to be part of CHI Memorial where the focus is always on the patient, and

prayer guides decision-making.”

Dr. Helen Kuroki, Chief Medical Officer and Eagle Fan

Dr. Helen Kuroki, her husband Cesar, and daughters Laura and Monica have enjoyed PINK! twice since her association with CHI Memorial began.

17

Jack Stephenson began volunteering 17 years ago – close to the turn of the century - and he loves it. He has a perfect schedule. “I volunteer two days a week, and the teams I work with on both days are outstanding. I enjoy seeing them each week and keeping up with the changes in their lives. And the work is rewarding. I like the feeling of being able to help people find their way.

On three other days of the week, Jack likes to play tennis – “if it’s nice enough to play outside and we can get four people together,” he says. He started playing tennis in 1960 at Manker Patten and used to play in some tournaments in his age group. Grandson David Henry took up tennis and was Number One at McCallie. He played for Memphis University four years, but decided not to play professionally.

A Great Growing Up Jack grew up in the Southern part of rural Alabama on a

cotton farm. His father, Riggs Stephenson, bought the farm after retiring from major league baseball in 1934.

Proud of his father’s baseball career, Jack will tell you: “Dad signed with the Cleveland Indians right out of college in 1921. In 1926, he went to the Chicago Cubs and was in left field when Babe Ruth hit his famous home run. He had a 336 lifetime batting average and 63 home runs. A football injury at the University of Alabama to his shoulder affected his throwing, but he was one of the best hitters never to be in the Hall of Fame. He is in the Bear Bryant Museum for Football.”

Jack says he had a “wonderful childhood.” He and his sister Marla (now married to Robert Sayers, former president of the University of Alabama) went to a little school in Akron, Alabama.

“All 12 grades were in this building shaped like a horseshoe. We used mules in the cotton fields; it was before tractors. I remember riding to the gin in the wagon with the cotton.”

The family moved to Tuscaloosa when Jack was 14, and he went to high school at Marion Military Institute, where he

played baseball. He spent two and a half years at the University of Alabama and then went into the National Guard for six years. “I was on active duty at Fort Jackson in South Carolina for six months and ended up on the baseball team. Good times,” Jack says.

When he came back to Alabama in 1958, he married Carol, and they moved to Chattanooga, where she had grown up. He had an opportunity to go into business with Sam Keese, Carol’s father in property and cash insurance.

The Stephensons have three children: Riggs, the oldest, lives in Nashville; Ila, the youngest lives in Greenville; and Jeanie lives on Signal Mountain. She had six children and has given him four grandchildren.

“They all usually come home for Thanksgiving and Easter, and we go to visit them throughout the year.”

Jack Stephenson - Family, Tennis, and Volunteering

Jack poses with his grandson David Henry on the tennis courts at the University of Alabama Birmingham where he watched David compete for Memphis University.

CHI Memorial Auxiliary helped fund IStan, a high fidelity simulator for training nurses, and we are proud that the program has received recognition.

CHI Memorial’s RN Residency program is an orientation program for RNs with less that six months experience in the acute care setting. The goal is to provide a standardized orientation experience that sets a solid foundation for long-term success.

The program begins with an intense period of education mixed with bedside experiences in multiple nursing units. RN residents are then matched to a unit to continue and complete orientation with a preceptor.

The program continues to support the new nurse with monthly continuing education classes, one-on-one mentoring, and guidance in professional development.

The RN Residency program walks a new graduate nurse through the first year of their career.

“We are proud that our program is recognized and accredited by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). This gives our nurses confidence that we meet standards for quality and excellence to help them acquire the knowledge, skills, and professional behaviors necessary to deliver safe, high-quality care,” says Chief Nursing Officer Rhonda Poulson.

RN Residency Recognized as Program of Highest-Quality

18

“She has a beautiful light within her – a light she

freely shares with all,” said Jean Payne when presenting

Sister Judy Raley with the Serra Club’s Lifetime

Achievement Award as the person serving longest in a

vowed religious life in this region. “Her inner peace and

joy is so inviting, sacred and comforting, people are

blessed in her presence. We experience love, wisdom,

and spirit.”

How Sister Judy’s Journey Began CHI Memorial's beloved Sister Judy Raley was the

oldest of eight children born into a close-knit family in

Leonardtown, a small town in Maryland. Her parents

liked having the children close, and she remembers

having a tent in the back yard where they could play and

invite neighborhood children. Her grandmother taught her

to sew and crochet, which she still enjoys.

"I was so happy at home, I tried to drop out of first grade by pretending to be sick," Sr. Judy

remembers. She attended St. Mary's Academy,* operated by the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth, for

12 years. "I really liked to study, and I admired the Sisters as teachers and for their commitment

and their joy," Sister Judy says.

Sister Julia Clare Fontaine from Chattanooga was one memorable influence. "Sister Julia was

delightful, often singing The Chattanooga Choo Choo. One day she asked me,

'Judy Fay, when are you coming to us?’ When I look back and see how everything

led me here, I am amazed. Chattanooga was a long way from Leonardtown, and I

could not have imagined then that I would one day call it home."

After one year at Nazareth College, the seed that was planted led her to

continue thinking about joining the Sisters who had inspired her. At the end of her

first year, she had made her decision to enter the community.

After making her vows after three years of training, she earned her college

degree in elementary education. Her first assignment was almost overwhelming--

45 seventh graders in Lexington, Kentucky. The next year she taught in

Columbus, Ohio, where many of the boys were bigger than she was.

She completed her master’s degree in history from Ohio State University, and

then taught at an all-girls high school. One of her students is an ophthalmologist

and did Sr. Judy’s cataract surgery a few years ago.

“You Taught Us to Believe in Ourselves.”

Preparing her for future responsibilities, God then called her to be

Assistant to the SCN Provincial in Covington, Kentucky, assisting in

long-range planning and administrative duties. Using these skills and

her teaching skills, she then spent six years in mission service in

Belize, planning services, taking communion to the sick, and training

laity in the villages to carry on the ministry between priest visits.

“When I left after six years, one of the women said, “You taught us

to believe in ourselves.’ One of my joys was visiting a few years ago

and meeting some of those who have continued to serve.”

While in Belize she received a master’s in Religious Studies from

the University of St. Thomas in Houston in “four very hot summers.”

Incorporating a Health Care System

Sr. Judy was called back to Nazareth to serve as Secretary General

and then as Vice President for the Congregation at the time a health

care system was being incorporated to operate their nine hospitals.

Sister began serving on hospital boards, including Memorial in 1988.

Honoring Sister Judy - A Lifetime of Serving with Love and Compassion

Sister Judy taught people in the villages to do lay ministry between the visits of the priests.

Sister Judy Raley in the Habit of the SCNs

Volunteer Services Director Jean Payne presented Sister Judy Raley with the Serra Club’s Lifetime Achievement Award.

Years after mission service in Belize, she met lay ministers she had taught.

19

Seeing a need for Sisters to be in our

hospitals, Sr. Judy decided to become

credentialed as a chaplain, and she was

ready when her term at Nazareth ended.

Holy Things Happen at Memorial

Sr. Judy joined the Pastoral Care Staff

at Memorial in 1995, and the next year she

became Vice President of Mission

Integration. That day a beautiful rainbow

assured her of God’s blessing on her and

the hospital.

“Mission Integration was an emerging

role when Sisters no longer served as

CEOs in SCNHS hospitals. It excited the

teacher in me to develop new programs, to

share the history and the mission, and to

integrate the values in everything we did,” says

Sr. Judy, who was very involved in the Envision Program and Standards

of Conduct to guide people in living out the values.

Always concerned for needs of the community as part of the hospital’s

mission, she helped develop Project Access and Volunteers in Medicine,

and worked with the Homeless Health Clinic, Friendship Haven, Parish

Nursing and Memorial’s Community Health Centers.

Though she loved Memorial and was much loved, when God called her

in 2007 to be leader of the Sisters of Charity in the United States, she

willingly went back to Nazareth for a five-year term, and her leadership

influence was felt across the United States and the world.

Tied to the Heartstrings of Memorial

Memorial’s Board of Directors called her back for a second term in

2009, and she served as Board Chair from July 2015-July 2017. When

she retired in 2013, she moved “back home” to Chattanooga and joined

the Memorial Auxiliary as a volunteer, visiting patients and being

available to staff. She also volunteers with Hospice of Chattanooga, and

continues to build on the SCN legacy through leadership in the SCN

Associate Program, a group of lay men and women joined in faith and

love to support the mission of service to the poor in Chattanooga.

Wonderful Experiences and Wonderful People

In addition to her service in Belize, highlights of her journey include

visits to India on the 50th anniversary of the SCN Ministry and following

the tsunami, and a Biblical study tour in Greece, Turkey, and Israel. She

is grateful for the way God has led, for the wonderful people she has met,

and for rewarding experiences. She is going back to India in May for the

election of congregation leaders.

We thank you, Sister Judy, for 56 years of making Christ’s love

known every day.

Gently and graciously, Sr. Judy Raley has followed God’s calling, and CHI Memorial has been blessed.

*Historical note: The Sisters of Charity of Nazareth, begun in 1812, had many members who had moved to Kentucky from Maryland, including Mother Catherine, whose family moved to St. Thomas, Kentucky, when she was three years old. After the Civil War, the Sisters reached out from Kentucky to open many schools in the South, and in 1885, they established St. Mary's Academy in Leonardtown, Maryland. The Sisters were pioneers, risk-takers, and very hard working. Their motto is “The love of Christ impels us.” Sister Judy lives by that motto..

Working with the staff of Nazareth Hospital, Mokama, India, on Mission Integration choosing values.

Sister Judy Raley in India after the tsunami.

Sister Judy distributes certificates to graduates of Nazareth School of Nursing in Mokama, India.

Talking to fellow volunteers Barbara and Rich Kramer at the annual awards dinner.

“I thank God daily for the

masterpiece He made in her and that

she answered His call to Memorial.” -Jean Payne

20

CHI Memorial Hamilton Place to Open Soon on Gunbarrel

There is a difference at Memorial! Whenever CHI Memorial opens a new service, the

dedication includes a special blessing or prayer. New services recently opened include the Lung Screening Coach, CHI Memorial Georgia, and CHI Memorial Hamilton Place.

At one of the openings, Bob Scheri, Vice President of Mission Integration, explained it this way:

We believe it is important to look back and reflect on how the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth gave this precious gift of ministry to the people of the Chattanooga area. They entrusted this gift to us, and we have the opportunity to continue to expand and enhance our service. Those of us in healthcare at Memorial can lay claim to a deep sense of meaning and purpose in how we spend our energies, time, knowledge, and skills each day.

My grandmother told me long ago that each of us has a little spark planted deep within. That spark is what called many of you to this work of bringing healing and compassionate care to those who need it. Whatever your profession, that spark is the gift that gives rich meaning

to everything you do. That early spark at the center of your being still

requires tending, feeding, and honoring so it might continue to grow into the full expression of your deepest self.

Ask yourself, what brought me to this place, this moment, this work? Hold that spark tenderly, respectfully that it may every day burn bright with compassion, hope, health. May the healing Presence of God be extended through our hands.

Nurturing the Divine Spark of God’s Healing Love

Sister Judy Raley and Bob Scheri sign a piece of wallboard that will be used in the remodeling of CHI Memorial Hamilton Place. The legacy of the Sisters of Charity will forever be at the core of CHI Memorial’s service.

A partnership between Atrium Medical Center and CHI

Memorial recently announced a new vision for the space at

the Atrium adjacent to Hamilton Place. This partnership

actually began 25 years ago to provide physician office

space and medical services in that area.

“The Gunbarrel/Hamilton Place Corridor has been a

hub of growth for Hamilton County, and population has

surged to nearly 50,000 residents in this zip code alone. Its

proximity to growing communities and easy access to

Interstates 75 and 24 makes it an ideal location to expand

CHI Memorial’s offerings where they will provide the

most benefit,” CEO Larry Schumacher told a group of

concerned citizens on January 9.

CHI Memorial Hamilton Place will open in the next few

months. The two buildings – Atrium I and Atrium II will

include the following services.

CHI Memorial Convenient Care – providing primary

and urgent care for children and adults

The MaryEllen Locher Breast Center

The Chattanooga Heart Institute

CHI Memorial Primary Care Associates

CHI Pediatric Diagnostic Associates

CHI Memorial Regional Sleep Center

CHI Memorial Health at Home Offices

Memorial Health Services Corporate Office

Other Health Partners

Board Chair Jim Pesnell explained how this facility was

important in meeting growth goals of Vision 2020, the

strategic plan.

“We know that people want convenient healthcare at

times that fit their schedules. This new facility will

accomplish that. Everything is wheelchair accessible, well

lighted, with convenient parking. The board is excited

about the ways CHI Memorial is elevating medical care.”

Pediatric services are expanding and with extended

hours, quick appointments for sick children, and

convenient access. “With 11 pediatricians and three

locations, we are the leading provider of pediatric services,

says Dr. Gary Meredith.

The MaryEllen Locher Breast Center and the Heart

Institute will also have offices at this location.

We take seriously our responsibility to innovate new

solutions and bring advanced medical services to those

who need it most close to where they live and work.

-CEO Larry Schumacher

21

CHI Memorial Georgia - A House of Healing & Peace

“Today we come together to celebrate and bless something good and something new, as we expand the rich heritage of compassionate care brought to this region by the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth,” began Bob Scheri, vice president of Mission Integration.

“We celebrate and bless the coming together of two wonderful communities of care – that of CHI Memorial in Chattanooga and Cornerstone Medical Center in Fort Oglethorpe, Georgia.”

The hospital has been renamed CHI Memorial Hospital Georgia, and it is now part of a larger regional and national ministry, the first Georgia hospital to join Catholic Health Initiatives.

The ceremony included a procession of the core values on banners. The values of Reverence, Integrity, Compassion and Excellence will now give direction to the expansion of services at the new hospital.

“Memorial has clung to these tenets as we carried out our mission to nurture the healing ministry in this region,” CEO Larry Schumacher told the audience. “As we remember this rich history, we celebrate a new chapter of healing now beginning in Georgia.”

Archbishop Gregory performed the dedication ceremony.

“Make this place a house of healing and peace and a center of love

Where physicians practice the art of healing wisely,

Where nurse, clinicians, volunteers, and caregivers serve with compassion.

May all patients know the gentle touch of your healing love and come to recognize and trust you in those who care for them.”

Each one in attendance was invited to come forward and take from a basin of holy water a stone as a reminder of the sacred work of this place. Sister Judy Raley and CHI Memorial COO Janelle Reilly assisted with towels and a personal word of appreciation.

Local ministers who will visit patients at the new hospital shared scripture examples of the healing ministry of Christ.

Janelle Reilly, president and COO of CHI Memorial, expressed gratitude to the Archbishop and the clergy who participated in the program. “Many people that are part of this transition have been doing powerful work,” she said. “Thank you to the new CHI Memorial associates who are carrying a heavy load during this period. We have had tremendous support from this community, from our physicians, staff, volunteers, and patients. It is truly heartwarming and humbling.”

“This is a special time in our history, and we feel a sense of hope for the rich collaboration, dedication and skill present in this house of peace.”

Currently, CHI Memorial Georgia has 19 licensed acute care inpatient beds and provides emergency, laboratory, radiology, pharmacy, and select inpatient medical services.

The Emergency Department is equipped and prepared to provide the highest level of emergency care to patients of all ages. Our board-certified physicians and staff are dedicated to serving the emergency needs of this community.

CHI Memorial Hospital Georgia is located at 100 Gross Crescent Circle, Fort Oglethorpe, Georgia 30742

For more general information, call 706.858.2280

Lighting the Mission Candle in Georgia CHI Memorial Hospital Georgia was dedicated in a beautiful ceremony by the

Most Reverend Wilton D. Gregory, Metropolitan Archbishop of Atlanta

Guide Thou our hands to heal and bless. Let all who meet here know Thy love and gentleness. Soothe all our hearts, let grieving cease. May we find wholeness within this house of peace. -Ralph M. Johnson

22

CHATS produced and edited by Joyce Dick

ANNOUNCEMENTS AND IMPORTANT DATES

UPCOMING FUNDRAISERS

Masquerade $5 Sale

“Around the Clock Sale”

at CHI Memorial Chattanooga Begins Wednesday, March 21 at 9pm

Ends Friday, March 23 at 4pm

Collective Goods (formerly Books Are Fun)

April 16-17—MHH

April 19-20—Chattanooga

In-Service Meetings

Required for All Volunteers

Abba’s House, Faith Building

Thursday, April 26

Community Rooms

Thursday, May 3

Saturday, May 12, 2018 9 a.m.

Join the fun and Outrun Melanoma!

Enterprise South Nature Park

$30 for 5K and $25 for mile fun walk

Children 12 and under are free.

The entire family is welcome to come walk,

run, assist in various ways, or

just enjoy being outdoors together.

To register, call 495-7465 or email

christine_willingham@memorial.org

June 8-16

Riverbend Wristbands go on sale in the CHI Memorial Gift Shops

Thursday, February 15

For $35 (On-line price is $44; Gate Price $60)

Special Note:

Please Mark Your Calendars

The Memorial Auxiliary Service Awards Banquet

will be held

Tuesday, May 22, 2018

Watch for your Invitation!