To the rescueDr. Steven Krueger studies ways to keep our firefighting heroes healthy and on the job

JOURNEYS“Destiny is not a matter of chance, it is a matter of choice …” – William Jennings Bryan Spring 2011

ALL ABOUT JOURNEYSStatesman William Jennings Bryan, one of the original benefactors of BryanLGH, said:

“Destiny is not a matter of chance, it is a matter of choice; it is not a thing to be waited for, it is a thing to be achieved.”

Journeys tells our story of how BryanLGH chooses to achieve. This free publication is mailed quarterly to our employees, physicians, volunteers and the communities

we serve.

STAY IN TOUCHWe welcome your comments. For more information about Journeys, contact the Advancement team by calling (402) 481-8674. To learn more about BryanLGH programs and

services, visit us online at bryanlgh.org.

OPPORTUNITIES TO SUPPORTYour contributions help us care for those who come to BryanLGH at every stage of life. To find out how you can participate, please contact the BryanLGH Foundation by calling

(402) 481-8605.

Kimberly RusselPresident & CEO, BryanLGH Health System

John Woodrich President & COO, BryanLGH Medical Center

Ryan Whitney, MD Chief of Staff, BryanLGH Medical Staff

Bob RavenscroftVice President of Advancement

Edgar BumanisDirector of Public Relations

Paul HadleyEditor

Facebook Basics:You can do it!

Free classThursday, June 23, 7-8:30 p.m.

Bryan Medical Plaza Conference Center,

BryanLGH East, 1600 S. 48th St.

Are your children and grandchildren encouraging you to

connect with them on Facebook? Maybe you’ve created a profile

but don’t know how to upload a profile image or find friends on

this social network. Perhaps you’ve put off joining Facebook,

thinking, “Not another new computer thing to have to learn!”

Help is here! Join Chrystal Houston, BryanLGH digital

marketing coordinator, as she reviews the basics of Facebook.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

• What is Facebook? Why should you bother?

• How to create a profile and upload images.

• How to find “Friends,” post updates, send messages and

write on walls.

• How to “like” BryanLGH and other organizations that

you’re interested in, so you can stay in-the-know.

Facebook Basics is offered by 55PLUS and Community

Health Education. To register, go to bryanlgh.org or call

(402) 481-8886.

‘Like’ us now and join the conversation“Like” BryanLGH on Facebook to get important health tips,

updates on technologies and therapies and news about

BryanLGH classes and events. Just scan the QR code at left with

your smartphone or other Wi-Fi enabled

device, or type facebook.com/bryanlgh

into your Web browser. Scanning this code

takes you directly to our Facebook page,

where you can join the conversation! Or,

log on at your desktop.

1 FROM OUR PRESIDENT

2 RESEARCH IN ACTION To the rescue

4 MEDICAL STAFF UPDATE New faces at BryanLGH

6 MEDICAL STAFF SPOTLIGHT Ask the doctor: When is plastic surgery appropriate?

8 NEW AT BRYANLGH EBUS helps fight lung cancer

10 BRYANLGH HEART INSTITUTE New cryoablation at the forefront of A-Fib treatment

12 CRETE AREA MEDICAL CENTER Hope is in her future

14 BRYANLGH HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE Celebrating 85 years of growth

16 INDEPENDENCE CENTER On a mission: Alumnus spreads the word about recovery

18 COLLEGE OF HEALTH SCIENCES Anesthesia program intense, but rewarding

20 COLLEGE ALUMNI PROFILE

21 COLLEGE ALUMNI CALENDAR

22 BRYANLGH FOUNDATION You can extend first benefactor’s vision

24 VOLUNTEER RESOURCES This general proudly volunteers

26 NEW AT BRYANLGH Palliative care relieves suffering

28 BRYANLGH LIFEPOINTE Completely relaxing

31 55PLUS

33 CALENDAR OF EVENTS

JOURNEYSSPRING 2011

When we learned that a revitalized Celebrate

Lincoln event was scheduled the same month

that BryanLGH celebrates its 85th anniversary,

we knew exactly how to proceed. All along, we

felt that whatever we do to commemorate 85 years of looking

forward and anticipating needs to build the region’s most

comprehensive health network, the celebration had to include

our region. BryanLGH owes so much to physicians, business

leaders and all the families from hundreds of communities who

have allowed us the honor of being of service at both the happy

and challenging times in their lives.

June 11, we’ve planned a daylong celebration starting with

our annual Kids’ Health and Safety Fair in the morning, our

College’s annual Alumni Day Luncheon at noon and concluding

with our sponsorship of Celebrate Lincoln that evening,

featuring country music star Rodney Atkins.

Celebrate Lincoln will draw people from far and wide, just

as BryanLGH does — we care for people from throughout

Nebraska and neighboring states. See page 33 for details of

these celebrations and page 17 for information about the

BryanLGH Independence Center’s 40th Anniversary events

planned for June 18.

This month, our cover story features Steven Krueger, MD,

who is drawing upon more than 20 years of cardiology expertise

to protect some of our community’s most vital public servants

— our firefighters. You’ll read how their work puts them at

increased risk for heart attack and how Dr. Krueger’s team is

intervening to make sure these heroes stay healthy and safe.

On page 26, you’ll read about a return to the values of old-

time medicine in the form of palliative care. While you may have

heard of hospice, an element of palliative care, you may not

know that Lincoln has specialists dedicated to helping families

step back, look at the big picture and improve the quality of life

of their loved one. BryanLGH is pleased to host a community

education event on this important topic with Lisa Mansur, MD,

July 14. See page 27 for details.

This quarter, our update from Crete Area Medical Center

features four-year colon cancer survivor Tammy Schroeder

and news about how the Affordable Care Act may make it

possible for more people to receive life-saving preventive health

screenings. Our LifePointe feature provides a great overview of

holistic health — learn how, from yoga to reflexology, more and

more people are finding relief from stress, tension and pain.

Helping you prepare for what’s next in your life always will

be what’s next in ours. On behalf of the staff and physicians at

BryanLGH Health System, thank you for allowing us to share in

your lives these past 85 years.

Kimberly A. Russel

President and Chief Executive Officer

BryanLGH Health System

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BryanLGH Journeys 1

To the rescueDr. Krueger answers alarmto reduce firefighters’ risk for heart attacks

hen he learned that firefighters have a 300

percent greater risk of heart attack than the

average person, Steven Krueger, MD, put his heart

and soul into preventing this statistic in Lincoln.

“It isn’t that there is something unique about my love of

firefighters. I am passionate about their health because if

they have a heart attack while fighting a fire or responding

to a call, it may not be just the firefighter who goes down, but

also your loved ones. So, my goal is to protect the firefighters

who in turn will protect those who live in our community.”

Being a firefighter is a dangerous occupation, but few of

us would think that heart attack is the No. 1 cause of death

for firefighters. Not falling through a burned-out floor, not

smoke inhalation, but heart attack. In fact, according to

research by Rita Fahy, PhD, Paul LeBlanc and Joseph Molis for

the National Fire Protection Association, firefighters have a

six-times greater chance of having a heart attack than dying

in a fire.

Dr. Krueger explains, “They have a very difficult job.

They sit there, relaxed, and the buzzer goes off, and their

adrenaline level shoots through the sky, and they are going

100 miles an hour and putting on 60 pounds of personal

protective equipment and running into a fire and into smoke.

After getting to know these guys, I consider them heroes. And

our job is to not ever have one of our heroes go down on our

watch.”

“It’s our motto,” echoes Becky Gocke, RN, one of the

three staff members dedicated to the program. “None of our

W

2 Spring 2011

R E S E A R C H I N A C T I O N

heroes go down on our watch.” The trio of BryanLGH Heart

Institute cardiologist Krueger and RNs Gocke and Lori Heiss

is extremely diligent in accomplishing this goal.

Dr. Krueger chimes in, “We are not going to sit here five

years from now and say, ‘If we would have just done this back

then, we wouldn’t be here now.’ We are doing everything

there is to do now to protect our firefighters.”

The programThree years ago, Dr. Krueger learned of research

conducted by cardiologist Robert Superko, MD, on the

risk of heart disease in firefighters. Dr. Superko, one of

Dr. Krueger’s professors during his internship and residency

at Stanford University Medical Center in Palo Alto, Calif., was

principal investigator in the landmark Federal Emergency

Management Agency (FEMA)-sponsored study of firefighters

and heart disease.

Though he was intrigued by how he could help the

community through a program similar to Dr. Superko’s — the

only program focusing on genes associated with coronary

artery disease — Dr. Krueger chose to implement a program

which focused on risk factors.

The first step is for firefighters to fill out the HeartAware

survey. (This free screening tool also is available online at

bryanlgh.org to use to determine your risk of heart disease.)

After completing this initial step, the firefighters are

taken through a one-on-one interview by a member of the

program’s dedicated staff. All information is evaluated using a

point scale developed by Dr. Krueger to arrive at a reasonable

idea of risk.

Once aware of risk factors, the team is very aggressive

in encouraging firefighters to modify those factors and

communicating with their primary care physicians.

“Our goal is to do every single thing we can do now to

prevent trouble two, five or 10 years down the line. We work

with the firefighters’ existing fitness programs to try to

accomplish this goal together,” Dr. Krueger says.

Results so farWhile too early to have statistical evidence of success,

Dr. Krueger is positive the program has decreased the risk of

most of the firefighters enrolled, and for some firefighters,

the risk has been decreased a great deal. Out of the nearly

100 Lincoln firefighters who have taken advantage of this

voluntary program, all but two individuals have shown at

least some risk for heart attack.

“We have identified some participants at risk and found

some significant coronary disease in others. A couple of those

with significant disease did not have a clue that they were, to

a certain extent, time bombs and we took the fuses out.”

Dr. Krueger and his team receive many pats on the back

from firefighters who have participated in the program.

“He saved my life,” says firefighter Dan Bare. “Dr. Krueger

found I had two coronary arteries that were blocked.” Though

his family had a history of heart disease, at age 47, Bare

had not experienced any symptoms. “My wife and I are so

thankful for this program.”

It is expected that at least one-half of the 270+ Lincoln

firefighters eventually will participate in the program.

“We are extremely grateful to Dr. Krueger and his team

for taking on this community project for the firefighters of

Lincoln,” says Battalion Chief Jeanne Pashalek, president

of the International Association of Women in Fire and

Emergency Services.

“Dr. Krueger also is helping us to establish a bench

mark on how our profession affects the health of women

On-the-job stresses make firefighters more prone to heart attacks.

BryanLGH Journeys 3

4 Winter 2011

New faces at

BryanLGHWelcome these physicians to the Medical Staff of BryanLGH

specifically,” Pashalek adds.

Expanding to Greater Nebraska “We are getting close to being ready to take this

outside of Lincoln. The master plan was to start in

Lincoln, tweak the program, take it to surrounding

communities and then throughout the state,” Dr. Krueger

continues.

As a native of Lexington, Neb., and having offered

heart clinics to patients throughout Nebraska and

surrounding states since coming to Lincoln in 1988,

he’s seen firsthand the need for intervention in smaller

communities.

“A volunteer firefighter in a small town might be the

local banker who doesn’t get regular exercise, so when

that buzzer goes off their adrenaline spikes — and they

could be at even a higher risk. There is a lot of interest in

Greater Nebraska both from firefighters, themselves, as

well as from family doctors,” says Dr. Krueger.

“Our first step may be helping primary care

physicians realize that voluntary firefighters are at such

high risk.” n

To find out more about this project, contact the

BryanLGH Heart Institute by calling (402) 483-3333.

For information on how you can support cardiac care

at BryanLGH, please call the BryanLGH Foundation at

(402) 481-8605.

Mathue Baker, MD, cardiology, joined BryanLGH Heart Institute, (402) 483-3333. In 2005, Dr. Baker graduated from the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Medicine, Omaha, where he also completed an internal medicine residency and cardiology fellowship.

His education also includes a fellowship through the Sarnoff Endowment for Cardiovascular Science at New York Medical College, Valhalla.

Mary Bowen, MD, FAAP, pediatrics, joined Complete Children’s Health, (402) 826-7926. She graduated in 1981 from the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Medicine, Omaha, where she also completed a pediatrics residency.

She received special training in developmental medicine and behavioral pediatrics through the college’s Munroe-Meyer Children’s Rehabilitation Institute and completed a residency in children’s neurology through the UNMC College of Medicine/Creighton University College of Medicine. Dr. Bowen is certified by the American Board of Pediatrics.

Dr. Bowen is co-founder of a clinic in Managua, Nicaragua, and received the Catholic Woman of the Year Award in 2000 for her leadership in securing health care for the low-income in St. Louis, Mo., and in Managua.

Dr. Bowen practices in Crete, Neb.; before that, she was in Clarksdale, Miss.; St. Louis, Mo.; and Fort Dodge, Iowa, as well as Omaha, Papillion and Fremont, Neb..

Intervention keeps firefightersready to help others

4 Spring 2011

M E D I C A L S T A F F U P D A T E

Heather Christianson, MD, FAAP, pediatrics, joined Complete Children’s Health, (402) 465-5600. She graduated from the

University of South Dakota Sanford School of Medicine, Vermillion, in 1996 and completed a pediatric residency through the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Medicine/Creighton University College of Medicine, Omaha.

She is certified by the American Board of Pediatrics. Before moving to Lincoln, Dr. Christianson practiced in Mitchell, S.D.

Neill Mollard, MD, cardiothoracic anesthesiology, joined Associated Anesthesiologists, (402) 489-4186. He graduated

from the Creighton University School of Medicine, Omaha, in 2003 and completed an anesthesiology residency and cardiothoracic anesthesiology fellowship at the University of California Davis Medical Center, Sacramento.

Dr. Mollard is co-founder of an award-winning software development company and practiced as a cardiothoracic anesthesiologist in St. Joseph, Mo., before

moving to Lincoln.

Robert Oakes, MD, cardiothoracic surgery, joined BryanLGH Cardiothoracic Surgery, (402) 481-8430. He graduated from the Harvard Medical School, Boston, in 2002 and completed a

general surgery residency, then a clinical fellowship in cardiothoracic surgery and a research fellowship in cardiovascular surgery at Stanford University Medical Center, Palo Alto, Calif.

He then fulfilled cardiothoracic surgery and cardiac surgery residency studies at Brigham and Women’s Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Boston.

Dr. Oakes is certified by the American Board of Surgery.

Scott Rasmussen, MD, internal medicine, joined Celerion Inc., (402) 437-6361. He graduated from the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Medicine, Omaha, in 1988 and completed a residency in internal medicine at the University of Minnesota Hospital and Clinics, Minneapolis. Dr. Rasmussen is board certified. He was associated with East Lincoln Internal

Medicine before joining the staff of the VA Medical Center Lincoln as a primary care physician, then Lincoln Internal Medicine Associates. In 2008, he became a principal investigator for Celerion Inc. and today is site medical director for the Celerion/BryanLGH Clinical Research Unit at BryanLGH West.

Ian Weber, MD, orthopedic surgery, joined the Creighton University School of Medicine Department of Orthopedics, Omaha, (402) 280-4342. He graduated in 2000 from the University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, where he also completed an orthopedic residency. He completed a fellowship in joint reconstruction at Hennepin County Medical Center, Minneapolis. He is board certified and before moving to Nebraska was a clinical professor at the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, and practiced in Fargo, N.D.

Stephen Youngberg, MD, nephrology, joined Celerion Inc., (402) 437-6361. Dr. Youngberg graduated from the University of Iowa College of Medicine, Iowa City, in 1972.

He completed an internal medicine residency and an advanced clinical residency and research fellowship

in nephrology at the Mayo Graduate School of Medicine, Rochester, Minn. He practiced in Texas and Louisiana and was a preceptor and clinical assistant professor at Louisiana State University Shreveport Medical School before moving to Lincoln in 1986. He has served as a consultant to hospitals in numerous Nebraska communities and was a preceptor for the family practice residency program of the

Lincoln Medical Education Partnership. Dr. Youngberg was in private practice in Lincoln; in 2009 he became a principal investigator for Celerion Inc. and now is associated with the Celerion/BryanLGH Clinical Research Unit at BryanLGH West.

BryanLGH Journeys 5

When is plastic surgery appropriate?

Ask thedoctor:

M E D I C A L S T A F F S P O T L I G H T

Cassidy Mitchell, MD,

Lincoln Aesthetic

Surgical Institute,

part of the BryanLGH

Physician

Network

Q: What is plastic surgery?

Plastic surgery is a specialty that encompasses

both reconstructive and aesthetic or cosmetic

surgery.

Q: What are the differences between

reconstructive and cosmetic plastic surgery?

Reconstructive seeks to restore form and/or

function to any part of the body affected by

such things as birth defects, injury or disease.

It comprises correcting defects of the skin,

musculoskeletal system, craniomaxillofacial

structures (mouth, jaws, face, skull), hand,

extremities, breast and trunk. Aesthetic or

cosmetic plastic surgery comprises surgical and

nonsurgical procedures designed to improve

appearance or correct imperfections of the

body.

Q: How do I choose an appropriate surgeon?

This decision is part objective — what you know

about the surgeon’s skills, training, experience,

references and areas of expertise — and part

subjective — does the surgeon instill trust and

confidence in you, listen and understand your

concerns and specific needs?

It’s important that any physician be board

6 Spring 2011

certified within his or her specialty. The American Board of

Plastic Surgery (ABPS) is responsible for certifying plastic

surgeons. ABPS-certified surgeons have graduated from

an accredited medical school and completed at least five

years of additional training as a resident surgeon — with

at least two years devoted entirely to plastic surgery — in a

program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Medical

Education. Certification is a voluntary process a surgeon

seeks after this training. To become certified, the doctor then

must pass a comprehensive written and oral examination.

Professional affiliation with the American Society of

Plastic Surgeons also is important. Member doctors have

five years of surgical training with a minimum of two

years in plastic surgery, are trained and experienced in

all plastic surgery procedures, operate only in accredited

medical facilities, adhere to a strict code of ethics and fulfill

continuing medical education requirements.

Q: What questions should I ask my doctor?

Are you certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, and

are you a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons?

How many years have you been in practice, and what is your

experience in performing my procedure? Is the procedure

being performed in a facility accredited by a nationally or

state-recognized accrediting agency, or is it state-licensed or

Medicare-certified? What are alternatives to the procedure?

What are the risks and complications associated with my

procedure?

Q: What types of plastic surgery are available within the

BryanLGH Physician Network?

Reconstructive procedures available include breast

reconstruction, breast reduction, surgery for skin cancers and

other benign skin lesions, facial trauma and upper and lower

extremity reconstruction.

Aesthetic surgery available includes facial rejuvenation

procedures such as a face lift, brow lift or eyelid surgery;

nose surgery; otoplasties for prominent ears; breast surgeries

such as augmentations and breast lifts; and body contouring

procedures such as tummy tucks and laser-assisted

liposuction.

Nonsurgical aesthetic products and procedures available

are Botox® and fillers such as Juvederm®, Radiesse®

and Sculptra®; and laser skin resurfacing, including

ProFractional therapy™ and light chemical peels such as

Melanage™ to address skin texture problems and areas of

hyperpigmentation — darkening of the skin — on the face.

Q: Is plastic surgery safe?

Plastic surgery is generally as safe as other surgical

procedures. With all procedures, there are inherent risks.

You must weigh potential risks and complications against

potential benefits you should reasonably expect to achieve.

By discussing the procedure in depth with your surgeon —

what is involved, expected post-procedural course, potential

complications and alternatives — you can make an informed

decision on whether or not to proceed.

Q: Will insurance cover the cost of plastic surgery?

Reconstructive surgery generally is covered by most health

insurance policies, although coverage for specific procedures

and levels of coverage may vary greatly. When possible, we

can work to receive preauthorization from your insurance

company prior to proceeding.

Cosmetic surgery usually is not covered by health

insurance because it is considered “elective,” or your choice,

and not a medical necessity. In assessing whether the

procedure will be covered, your insurance carrier looks at

the primary reason the procedure is being performed: Is it for

relief of symptoms or for cosmetic improvement?

Q: Are BryanLGH and its network facilities accredited?

BryanLGH and the outpatient and same-day surgery facilities

in the BryanLGH Physician Network where plastic surgeries

are performed are accredited. This means they meet strict

national standards for equipment, operating room safety,

personnel and surgeon credentials. n

For more information about the benefits of reconstructive and aesthetic surgery, contact the Lincoln Aesthetic Surgical Institute by calling (402) 483-8530.

BryanLGH Physician Network includes many primary care physicians and specialists who are accepting patients. To learn more, go to bryanlghphysiciannetwork.org.

BryanLGH Journeys 7

“Endobronchial ultrasound just makes sense,” said John

Trapp, MD, FCCP. And cancer patient Steve Milledge agrees.

Dr. Trapp, a local pulmonologist, performed the first EBUS

in Lincoln in 2009 and has done more than 75 since then.

“It’s a newer, minimally invasive and very accurate

procedure that allows us to diagnose or stage lung cancer —

to assess a patient’s lymph nodes to determine if the cancer

has spread,” Dr. Trapp said.

And knowing the stage — the extent of the cancer — is

crucial so doctors are able to identify appropriate treatment

and estimate the prognosis.

Last year, lung cancer killed more than 150,000 Americans,

and about 220,000 new cases were diagnosed. These figures,

coupled with the fact that lung cancer is the most common

nonskin cancer in men and women in the United States, point

to EBUS as a trusted ally.

EBUS is a less invasive way for physicians to see and

evaluate the surface of a patient’s airways, blood vessels,

N E W A T B R Y A N L G H

EBUS helpsfightlung cancer

Dr. John Trapp, left,

prepares the endo-

bronchial ultrasound

(EBUS) guidance

system to assess

Steve Milledge’s lung

cancer.

8 Spring 2011

lungs and lymph nodes (the small, bean-shaped glands that

filter out bacteria, cancer cells and other foreign material), and

the ultrasound component allows doctors to do so with high

accuracy.

“With endobronchial ultrasound, we get to take off the

blindfold, so to speak,” Dr. Trapp said. “Using ultrasound, I can

visualize lymph nodes to biopsy with real-time imaging, which

provides high accuracy and high sensitivity. We cannot do this

with traditional bronchoscopy. And we can reduce the need

for mediastinoscopy — a more invasive procedure in which

a scope is inserted through an incision rather than down the

throat.

“Ultrasound allows me to see exactly where the lymph

node is and put the needle in it — even if it’s just millimeters

from a blood vessel — and know with almost 100 percent

certainty that I’m only biopsying the lymph node.”

Steve Milledge can attest to the importance of EBUS

evaluation. When results from a recent, traditional biopsy

of a mass in the right upper lobe of his lung revealed Stage

1 non-small cell cancer, Dr. Trapp performed an EBUS to

biopsy lymph nodes in the mediastinum — the area in the

chest between the lungs containing the heart, windpipe and

esophagus — to determine whether or not the cancer had

spread.

Milledge received good news that day. “The cancer hasn’t

spread,” he said.

Armed with this knowledge, Milledge knew the next step

in his treatment

plan: surgery to

remove the mass

in his lung.

Endo-

bronchial

ultrasound just

makes sense.

On average,

an EBUS takes

30-40 minutes,

typically requires

only conscious

sedation versus general anesthesia and is done as an

outpatient procedure.

The doctor slides a bronchoscope, or tube, with an

ultrasound probe and balloon on the end of it through the

mouth and down into the airway. With real-time ultrasound

guidance, at the lymph node of interest, the physician

inflates the balloon filled with saline, which forms a buffer

zone so ultrasound waves can present a quality image. He or

she locks the scope into place and slips the needle — encased

in a sheath — down the scope, moving it back and forth

inside the lymph node while a syringe with suction pulls

cells up into a catheter. The doctor then removes the needle

and pushes the cells onto a slide and sends it to the onsite

pathologist, who is able to offer a preliminary diagnosis, as

well as inform the doctor whether more cells are needed to

yield satisfactory results.

“Where we can get information with a less invasive test

that reduces risk and hospitalization, can be done as an

outpatient and yields satisfactory or similar results as a more

invasive test, that’s good news for patients and physicians,”

Dr. Trapp said.

“With endobronchial ultrasound, we can do that. And, it’s

available in Lincoln, which is really exciting.” n

To learn how you can support cancer care at BryanLGH,

contact the BryanLGH Foundation by calling (402) 481-8605.

Steve Milledge receives

the welcome news that his

cancer hasn’t spread.

The EBUS system includes

a viewing scope, inflatable

balloon and needle for

getting tissue samples.

BryanLGH Journeys 9

New cryoablationat the forefrontof A-Fib treatment

“Please thank Dr. Merliss for giving me back my quality of life.”Just two weeks after undergoing a revolutionary new

surgery to correct her atrial fibrillation, Miriam Davis, the first balloon cryoablation patient of cardiac electrophysiologist Andrew Merliss, MD, called to thank him for giving her the ability to enjoy life again.

Miriam’s atrial fibrillation (A-Fib) caused her heart to beat rapidly, leaving her tired, anxious, unsettled — just uncomfortable overall. “I was so tired, but when I tried to sleep, it was like there was an elephant sitting on my chest.” So when Dr. Merliss told her about this new procedure, Miriam jumped in line to become the first patient in Nebraska to undergo balloon cryoablation.

Dr. Merliss is the only cardiologist in Nebraska to perform balloon cryoablation, and BryanLGH Medical Center is the only hospital in the state with the equipment. This procedure was just approved by the FDA in December, and Dr. Merliss performed his first balloon cryoablation at BryanLGH on March 4.

ATRIAL FIBRILLATIONThough there are many types of heart rhythm problems,

Dr. Merliss calls atrial fibrillation the “Holy Grail” of electro-physiology because it is so difficult to manage and cure. There are so many potential triggers to consider — in some people it’s simply drinking a cold beverage after exercise, for others it’s coffee or alcohol, while others don’t see any specific trigger points. Though 6 percent of people 65 and over suffer from A-Fib, there is a whole subset of younger people who are troubled by the condition. Some are adrenaline affected, some are weight lifters, and some are long-distance runners.

Patients with A-Fib are not only significantly more at risk for stroke than the average person, but many, like Miriam, experience symptoms which contribute to a poor quality of life. For some people, the symptoms come and go, whereas others have symptoms all the time. The American Heart Association recommends aggressive treatment for A-Fib regardless of whether symptoms are experienced. Though A-Fib is not preventable, most triggers can be managed through medication or ablation.

Dr. Andrew Merliss (above and at right)

sees promise in cryoablation as a

treatment for atrial fibrillation.

10 Spring 2011

B R Y A N L G H H E A R T I N S T I T U T E

BALLOON CRYOABLATIONDr. Merliss — who’s been performing ablations since 1995

— left his position at Harvard Medical School in 2002 to begin the radiofrequency ablation program at the BryanLGH Heart Institute (BHI). Before the program was fully developed, more severe cases were referred to major teaching hospitals. But now the program at BryanLGH is so sophisticated that few cases need to leave the area.

“We are on the forefront of technology and have the most up-to-date, state-of-the-art equipment and resources that rival those of anywhere else in the country. The hospital’s support of cardiac physicians and the electrophysiology program allows us to continue to offer the most advanced procedures right here,” says Dr. Merliss.

He explains that cryoablation itself has been around for some time as an energy source for freezing and has also been used with radiofrequency ablation procedures where the tip is cold instead of hot. What’s exciting about this new procedure is balloon cryoablation’s ability to treat the offending problem in a circumferential manner without gaps in coverage. (Imagine touching and correcting all areas in a circle at one time rather than having to treat hundreds of individual problem spots, a drawback to other ablation methods.)

Balloon cryoablation entails inserting a catheter into the left atrium of the heart and then sending -112 degrees Fahrenheit coolant through a tiny balloon which has been inflated after being introduced into the catheter. This pro-cedure eliminates potential problems by scarring tissue that spreads electrical currents that can lead to A-Fib.

Dr. Merliss is excited about balloon cryoablation as it is lower risk and results in less procedure time than

SPRING CARDIOLOGY CONFERENCE DRAWS DOCSMore than 75 physicians gathered April 16 for the

8th annual “Hearts and Huskers” spring cardiology conference. BryanLGH Heart Institute physicians (such as cardiologist Dale Hansen, MD, above) presented information to help improve continuity of care.

FALL BRINGS NEUROSCIENCE, HEART TOPICS The Gogela Neuroscience Institute Conference

Friday, Sept. 2, will be offered in conjunction with the BHI Fall Conference Saturday, Sept. 3. For details about Friday’s neuroscience topics, call Brenda Lieske, RN, at (402) 481-5942. To learn about Saturday’s BHI events, contact Ty Westover at (402) 483-3316.

radiofrequency ablation. Nationwide, the procedure is experiencing an 80-85 percent success rate; however, like most surgeries, there are some risks.

“I am very selective about which patients receive the procedure as it is not for everyone. Some patients can be managed with medication alone; others have too many other health problems or have had the condition for too long for this procedure to be effective,” he notes.

Dr. Merliss says it’s too early to know if balloon cryoablation will replace radiofrequency ablation: “Since it is so new, we don’t have the five-year, 10-year studies to see long-term success rates, but we are excited about the prospects.” n

For information on how you can support cardiac care at BryanLGH, contact our BryanLGH Foundation staff by calling (402) 481-8605.

BryanLGH Journeys 11

Hope is in her

future

C R E T E A R E A M E D I C A L C E N T E R

If you listen to stories of cancer survivors and try to gauge your own risk by comparison, then Tammy Schroeder’s story will scare you. She didn’t fit a single risk category when a doctor told her she had Stage 3 colon cancer at

age 35. If she had listened to the voice that said not to worry, that she had no family history of cancer; that she was much too young — 15 years from the 50-year mark, when doctors suggest a preventive colonoscopy — to worry about this, she probably wouldn’t be here. Thankfully, she listened to the medical training in her — the nagging voice that said it was time to find out why she didn’t feel well.

Today, she is nearly five years cancer-free.She doesn’t call herself a victor because cancer never

forfeits. Instead, she is a wife and mother of three who believes she will be there for prom dresses and college applications, and an APRN at BryanLGH’s Crete Area Medical Center (BCAMC) who never misses an opportunity to share the importance of cancer screenings.

Growing up in Newman Grove, Neb., Tammy planned to be a teacher. But her brother’s bout with endocarditis (an infection of the heart’s inner lining) exposed her to the medical world and changed her path.

She earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in nursing from the University of Nebraska Medical Center and became a family nurse practitioner. She was working at BryanLGH Medical Center when she and her husband, Ron, decided to move to a smaller town to raise a family. Crete, Neb., became home in 1998, and their family grew to include children Luke, Danny and Lindsay.

It should have been the fun stage, with nothing more pressing than elementary school schedules, ball games and baby bottles. That’s why she put off getting a colonoscopy when she started having persistent fatigue, anemia and gastrointestinal changes. When things still weren’t normal six months after the birth of her daughter, she took the test, which detects polyps, tumors or ulcers in the colon.

“I figured I had an infection or a polyp or something. I thought nobody has that kind of cancer at my age.”

It was much worse than a polyp. She had a large tumor: 11 of 20 lymph nodes were cancerous. “My first words were, ‘Who’s going to raise my babies?’”

If preventive health screenings seemed out of reach to you in the past due to cost, the Affordable Care Act may soon be putting them back within your grasp. Under the Affordable Care Act, you and your family may be eligible for some important preventive services — which can help you avoid illness and improve your health — at no additional cost to you.

This preventive services provision applies to people enrolled in job-related health plans or individual health insurance policies created after March 23, 2010. If you are in such a health plan, this provision affects you as soon as your plan begins its first new “plan year” or “policy year.”

COVERED PREVENTIVE SERVICES FOR ADULTS

• Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm one-time screening for men of specified ages who have smoked• Alcohol misuse screening and counseling• Aspirin use for men and women of certain ages• Blood pressure screening for all adults• Cholesterol screening for adults of certain ages or at higher risk• Colorectal cancer screening for adults over 50• Depression screening for adults• Type 2 Diabetes screening for adults with high blood pressure• Diet counseling for adults at higher risk for chronic disease• HIV screening for all adults at higher risk• Immunization vaccines for adults (doses, recom- mended ages and recommended populations vary)• Obesity screening and counseling for all adults• Sexually Transmitted Infection prevention counseling for adults at higher risk• Tobacco use screening for all adults and cessation interventions for tobacco users• Syphilis screening for all adults at higher risk

If you have questions about whether these new provisions apply to your plan, contact your insurer or plan administrator.

Source: healthcare.gov

Law seeks to make preventive screenings more affordable for you

12 Spring 2011

Rescue Department and community members, who provided meals while Tammy completed chemotherapy.

“Someone showed up at our house at 5 p.m. every single weekday with a home-cooked meal. Some people I didn’t even know. It was unbelievable and something my family looked forward to. I remember the boys coming into my room on the nights I couldn’t be with them to report what people brought.”

She also remembers the care at BCAMC. When she was admitted, or on the numerous outpatient visits because of reactions to the treatment, the staff not only took care of her, but soothed her, understanding the tiny details that can make something intolerable, bearable.

“It was so comforting to me to be cared for by the people who knew me, who knew my family, who really cared that I would survive. When I got here I felt like I could take a deep breath again.”

Her parents stayed with her every other week, helping to take care of the new baby and young boys throughout chemotherapy, eventually moving to Crete.

When Tammy’s treatments ended and gave way to follow-up CAT scans and blood work, she received the first good news of her battle. None of the tests showed new growth. The scariest of the tests came about six months after chemotherapy ended. She would hear the results without Ron by her side. Ron, her “lifeline” who unwaveringly told her she had nothing to worry about, was deployed with the Nebraska Army National Guard to Iraq.

The test results were clean. She celebrated with girlfriends at a coffee shop and used the Internet to share the news with Ron. Tammy recalled, “It was the first time I thought I might actually make it.”

Cancer survivors have told her she will reach a point when she is thankful that she had cancer. She’s not there yet, she said, but she’s different than before; she’s better — someone who tries to cherish every day.

“I feel like this was really a journey to make me who I’m supposed to be. I hope I’ve gained some character having gone through this.”

She finds she has an almost eerie connection to other cancer survivors and deep empathy for her patients with cancer. She’s a medical provider who fully understands the fear cancer brings and the tremendous power optimism lends to the spirit. “It’s one thing to hear you have cancer. It’s another to hear you have no way to fight back. Get your screenings — early — so there’s still that important little word: hope.” n

To learn more about how to support BryanLGH’s Crete Area Medical Center, contact Jody Vondra at (402) 826-6581.

A specialist told her she had a 50 percent chance of survival. Hearing that black-and-white statistic was devastating. She’ll always be thankful that her gastroenterologist called her at home to say: “I just want you to know I believe you’re going to live through this. It’s going to be rough, but you’ll get through.”

With that phone call, Tammy said, “I started coping. I found hope.”

Surgery by Stephen Nagengast, MD, who has served Crete for many years as a visiting surgeon, removed the tumor. She began six months of chemotherapy treatment that stretched to nine because of low white blood cell counts and bad physical reactions to the medicine.

Doctors treated the reaction with steroids, Benadryl® and medicine to control fevers. She’d take chemotherapy on Mondays, be sick for 10 days, enjoy four good days, then climb in the roller coaster car again.

“It’s a ride I never could have taken without the love and support of this community, the prayers and the survivors who dropped by to give me hope with their stories of survival.”

Within a few days of her diagnosis, nurses had set up a calendar of volunteers from BCAMC, Saline Medical Specialties, Sacred Heart Catholic Church, the Crete Volunteer Fire and

Cancer survivor Tammy Schroeder, APRN, has deep empathy for her patients.

BryanLGH Journeys 13

14 Spring 2011

Celebrating 85 yearsor 85 years, BryanLGH has been

at the forefront of advancing

health care. It all began early in

the 20th Century because of the

generosity and vision of leaders in our

community.

Famed orator, Congressman and

Secretary of State William Jennings Bryan

and Mary Baird Bryan donated their

Fairview home and surrounding farmland

in 1922 to become the site of a new hospi-

tal at 48th and Sumner Streets.

Bryan Memorial Hospital opened

June 6, 1926, and the first classes at Bryan

School of Nursing started that fall.

Plans also were under way to create a

general city hospital.

Thanks to several years of local fund-

raising efforts and a $100,000 contribu-

tion from the estate of Robert E. Moore,

Lincoln General Hospital opened in 1925

on South 17th Street. Donations from the

John L. Teeters trust fund and the Moore

estate helped establish a nursing school.

Both hospitals eventually outgrew

their original buildings, as health care

and patients’ needs changed; and both

hospitals met their respective challenges.

Here are a few of the many highlights,

as Bryan and Lincoln General merged into

a leading health system — BryanLGH.

1920 1930 1940 1950

1922: Statesman William Jennings

Bryan donates his Fairview home

and surrounding farmland to

become the site of a new hospital.

It opens in 1926 and is named Bryan

Memorial Hospital in honor of its

first benefactor, who died in 1925.

1926: Fairview houses student nurses for decades; the first class graduates in 1929.

1948: Second major construction project at Bryan.

1930: First major expansion project at Bryan.

1920s: Lincoln Rotary Club conceives the idea of Lincoln General Hospital and leads a public campaign to raise $100,000 that matches City of Lincoln funds and a donation from the Robert E. Moore estate. New hospital opens in 1925.

1930s: Refinements in medical diagnoses and treatments lead to improved outcomes for patients.

1933: Lincoln General cancer clinic installs world’s most powerful X-ray generating appara-tus, using funds from the John L. Teeters trust.

F

1939: Lincoln General first general hospital in America to provide acute adult psychiatric inpatient services.

of caringB R Y A N L G H H I S T O R I C A L P E R S P E C T I V E

BryanLGH has steadily grown to become a leading provider of heart care, mental health services, neuroscience, radiology, cancer care, gastroenterology and other specialties. For information on how you can help continue this legacy, please contact our BryanLGH Foundation staff by calling (402) 481-8605 or go to bryanlgh.org.

1960 1970 1980 1990 2000 2010

2003: BryanLGH Crete Area Medical Center opens its new facility.

1963: Major construction project at Bryan.

1960s: Lincoln’s first open heart surgeries and pacemaker implant procedures performed at Bryan.

1970: Nebraska’s first cardiac vein bypass at Bryan.

1971: Independence Center for treating substance abuse opens at Lincoln General.

1989: StarCare air ambulance service begins.

1985: Lincoln General Trauma program verified as Level II Trauma Center.

1974: Lincoln General opens SurgEase, Nebraska’s first outpatient surgery center.

1978: Trauma team at Lincoln General and Dr. Paul Collicott pioneer Advanced Trauma Life Support course that American College of Surgeons later adopts to educate doctors.

1967: Lincoln General moves to brand-new facility.

2001: BryanLGH Heart Institute.2002: BryanLGH Hospitalist Program.2005: BryanLGH Physician Network.2006: Extensive renovation at BryanLGH West creates “Lincoln’s Newest Hospital.”

2006: LifePointe opens.

2008: Institute for Women’s & Children’s Health, including a Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, opens on East site.

1997: Bryan Memorial Hospital and Lincoln General Hospital merge to become BryanLGH.

2008: BryanLGH College of Health Sciences accredited.

1994: RehabCare offers inpatient acute rehab at Lincoln General. New Bryan Medical Plaza consolidates outpatient services.

1986: Bryan surgical teams perform heart transplants.

BryanLGH Journeys 15

ON A MISSION

Independence Center alumnus spreads the word about recovery

When 30-year-old Greg Brown checked into the BryanLGH

Independence Center for alcohol abuse treatment in

September 2009, he was afraid.

Only three days prior to check-in, he had been rushed to

BryanLGH West because of an overdose. During his hospitalization,

an Independence Center intervention nurse stopped by to talk with

him about the Center’s treatment program.

“I was willing to go, but I was scared,” Brown said. “I didn’t know

how to live without alcohol in my life, and I didn’t know if I’d have a

life when I got through treatment.”

When Brown checked out after his treatment, hope had

replaced fear.

Equipped with his recovery plan, a starter kit filled with

tools and resources to help him succeed, and a group of peers in

recovery and Independence Center staff to support him, he started

a brand-new life.

“Now, I’m passionate about giving back to the community that

has given so much to me,” Brown said. “I want to share the message

that there is hope.”

One way he gives back is through his duties as president-elect

of the Independence Center Alumni Association, a role in which he

is honored to fill — especially because his peers elected him.

His duties include supporting the president by representing the

Alumni Association at meetings, community events and functions

that the president is not able to attend; and participating in

monthly meetings where alumni discuss the budget, fund-raising

events, scholarships and more.

“Staying connected keeps me accountable,” Brown said. “I have

to fight every day for sobriety, and I do this by going to alumni

meetings and community events for those in recovery.

“I want to reach out and share my story with people — to tell

and show them that life gets better. I have something to live for,

and I want them to know they do, too.”

Brown is a staff sergeant in the Nebraska Army National Guard

where he works full time in the human resources department. He

also is pursuing a Business Administration/Accounting degree at

Southeast Community College.

“I don’t drink now because I have a disease — alcohol addiction

— but it is in remission,” Brown said. “Now I’m a productive

member of society and a good husband and father. And I’m

motivated to urge others in recovery to succeed.” n

Staff Sgt. Greg Brown, with the support of the Nebraska Army National Guard and the Independence Center Alumni Association, shares his message to aid others in their recovery.

To learn how you can support the BryanLGH Independence

Center, contact the BryanLGH Foundation at (402) 481-8605.

16 Spring 2011

I N D E P E N D E N C E C E N T E R

The Independence Center is celebrating its 40th year with

an anniversary celebration Saturday, June 18.

It’s a wonderful time for

alumni to reconnect and for

the community to learn more about the

Center’s substance abuse programs,

says director Jerome Barry. BryanLGH is

hosting the free event 9 a.m.- 10 p.m. in

the upper levels of the parking garage

at BryanLGH West. Tours of the Center

also are being arranged.

Keynote speakers are

Independence Center alumni Don Hays,

a substance abuse counselor from

Colorado Springs, Colo., and Husker

All-American and NFL football star Bob

Newton, former lead counselor at the

Betty Ford Center. Guests also will hear

messages from BryanLGH officials and

University of Nebraska athletic director

Tom Osborne, and comedian T. Marni

Vos, the Lincoln Boys Choir and the

Cronin Brothers Band will entertain.

It all began in 1971 with a Chemical

Dependency Unit at the former Lincoln

General Hospital. Two years later,

outpatient services were added.

“That was really big,” Barry adds.

“This was the first hospital-based

program in the state to offer outpatient

rehab as more than a 30-day stay, in

addition to inpatient care.

“Fast forward to today, and now

almost all of our services are on an

outpatient basis.”

Other early milestones include forming the Alumni

Association in 1975, and during the next five years the Center

added family care, intervention nurses, addressed the special

needs of adolescents, and initiated a women’s program.

“Our Alumni Association has grown into the most active

organization of its kind in Nebraska. AA (Alcoholics Anonymous)

is all about giving back, so this is a perfect opportunity for people

who have gone through our program to help others,” notes Barry.

The Center was the first in the state to have intervention

nurses assess patients at the bedside for possible substance

abuse. Patients in apparent need are encouraged to consider the

Center’s programs.

In 1988, the Independence

Center was rated one of America’s

top drug/alcohol treatment centers.

Such accolades have continued,

and today the Center is helping

resolve issues for many individuals

and families, soldiers and athletes.

Barry says, “We’ve been busier

than ever, with more beds filled than

at any other time in our history.

“We attribute this increase

in clients served to a variety

of conditions, including our

high-quality work and good

communication with our referral

sources, stressful economic times

and an increase in work with the

active military and their families.”

He’s directed the Center since

1999.

Alumna Pat Novak says,

“The staff always has been very

professional, but Jerome brought

a new dimension of operating like

a business model. It’s been very

successful under his leadership.”

Barry credits the Center’s

achievements to its interdisciplinary

team of licensed substance abuse

and mental health professionals.

According to the director, “Our

focus has been on individualizing

lengths of stay — we design programs specifically for each

patient’s needs. Rather than use a pre-packaged plan, we tailor

treatments.”

He concludes by noting, “Even with all of the progress

and changes, the Independence Center has maintained its

commitment to viewing alcoholism as a disease, and the

administration fully supports what we do.” n

For information about programs at the BryanLGH

Independence Center, call (402) 481-5268 or go to bryanlgh.org. A

confidential online screening is available at byranlgh.org.

Independence Center notes four decades of service

40thAnniversary Celebration

Saturday, June 18

9 a.m. Complimentary coffee and rolls9:30 a.m. Welcoming remarks10 a.m. Lincoln Boys Choir10:45 a.m. Substance abuse counselor Don Hays presents his story of recovery and strengthNoon Free lunch1 p.m. Remarks from BryanLGH CEO Kim Russel, COO John Woodrich and Vice Presidents Bob Ravenscroft and Shirley Travis2 p.m. Tom Osborne, University of Nebraska athletic director and former Congressman and Hall of Fame coach2:15 p.m. “Halftime with Bob Newton,” by former Husker and NFL star and Betty Ford Center counselor3:30 p.m. Drawing for prizes4:30 p.m. Comedian T. Marni Vos presents “A Celebration of Laughter”5:30 p.m. Free Supper7-10 p.m. Music by Cronin Brothers Band

BryanLGH Journeys 17

C O L L E G E O F H E A L T H S C I E N C E S

att Crandell is one of 11 May 2011 graduates of the

BryanLGH College of Health Sciences School of

Nurse Anesthesia (SONA). After spending the past

33 months in the program, this Lincolnite is ready.

He knows that the program has prepared him very well.

“It’s an intense program and an intense job,” says

Crandell, who received his bachelor’s degree in nursing from

the University of Nebraska Medical Center. “Anesthesia is a

whole different dedication. You have to have a major desire

and commitment.”

It does take a high level of dedication and focus to

complete the SONA program; applicants must already have

earned a bachelor’s degree, be a registered nurse and have

extensive experience in a critical care setting. They simply

must be able to handle the rigors of the program — and the

responsibilities of becoming a certified registered nurse

anesthetist (CRNA).

Class size is limited to 16 students, according to SONA

program administrator Sharon Hadenfelt, CRNA, PhD.

“It’s important to keep class sizes smaller, because we

need to make sure we have access to appropriate clinical

areas for all, and to maximize each student’s experience,”

adds Dr. Hadenfelt, a 1991 SONA graduate.

The SONA began in 1968; since then, 168 students have

graduated and gone on to work in hospitals, in private

practice and in urban and rural settings. For more than 20

years, the school has enjoyed a 100 percent placement rate

for its graduates in Nebraska and other states. Demand in

Nebraska is expected to increase as current CRNAs retire.

Dr. Hadenfelt says employers recognize that SONA

students are involved in as many as two to three times the

number of clinical cases as students in other programs —

which makes BryanLGH graduates attractive hires.

During the first year, students spend most of their time

in the classroom, studying subjects such as pharmacology,

anatomy and the basics of anesthesia. But for the balance of

the program, students find themselves in a variety of clini-

cal rotations. While 17 medical facilities participate with the

SONA clinical program, each student typically completes

clinicals at six to eight sites — in Lincoln, Omaha, Crete,

Grand Island, Columbus and many others in Nebraska.

It’s easy to understand what Crandell means by “intense”

Anesthesia programintense, but rewarding

Students in the BryanLGH

School of Nurse Anesthesia

get clinical experience in

hospitals across Nebraska.

Hospitals in Columbus, Crete,

Falls City, Fremont, Grand Island,

Hastings, Kearney, Lexington,

Norfolk, Lincoln, Omaha, O’Neill,

West Point and York participate as

clinical sites.

M

18 Spring 2011

fidence; their already strong skills just get stronger,” he said.

Both Crandell and Swope noted that even if a student

chooses to work in a larger city, learning how things are done

in rural hospitals helps build an all-around understanding of

the practice. It’s all in keeping with the school’s goal to pre-

pare graduates for full participation in the delivery of anes-

thesia care in concert with other healthcare providers.

Says Swope: “We enjoy the students and they do a

good job. We’ve hired two graduates and I’m sure we’ll hire

more.” n

For information on how you can support BryanLGH

College of Health Sciences and the School of Nurse

Anesthesia, call the BryanLGH Foundation at (402) 481-8605.

To become a nurse

anesthetist requires a

major desire and commit-

ment, says Matt Crandell,

Class of 2011.

when you consider what being a nurse anesthetist requires.

“You are partly responsible for keeping the patient alive

during surgery,” Crandell explains. “We not only administer

anesthesia medicine, we are responsible for keeping the pa-

tient’s airway open, we monitor heart and lung function, and

of course help them go to sleep and wake up.”

Crandell says this all comes with the clinical experience.

Mark Swope is a CRNA at Columbus Community Hospital

and a SONA liaison. He believes the rural experience provides

special insight for the students.

“It’s a different way to practice,” Swope says. “The

surgeons here often have larger volumes and things need

to move along more quickly. Students also get to do more

obstetrics cases in the rural setting. All of this helps their con-

BryanLGH Journeys 19

Q: How did you decide to become a nurse anesthetist?

A good friend from Seward, Neb., was a certified registered

nurse anesthetist (CRNA) and let me shadow him in the

operating room. I just thought I’d be interested, and I was. I

also worked in the perfusion area for about four years, and

that was a catalyst, and my fellow nursing graduates told me

that they really were enjoying the challenge. Nurse anesthesia

is a great way to make a living. The immediate rapport with

patients and their families as you help prepare them for their

surgery, camaraderie with physicians and other staff — all of

these make nurse anesthesia very rewarding.

Q: What was your first job after graduating?

I went into practice in Fairbury, Neb. Having grown up in

Seward — I was even an orderly at the Seward hospital as

a youngster — I was interested in a rural practice. It was

important for rural hospitals to have nurse anesthetists on

staff. I helped Jefferson County Memorial Hospital in Fairbury

develop its anesthesia department, and I was that hospital’s

sole anesthesia provider. It was hard to leave, but I decided to

go back to school and then to come back to BryanLGH to work.

Q: Tell us about a memorable experience in your early career.

One of the first calls I got in Fairbury was to the emergency

department at 3 a.m. A patient with chronic lung disease

was in severe respiratory distress. Three of us worked on the

patient all night and eventually got him stabilized and later

released. It turned out that he was the editorial writer for the

local paper. He ended up writing about his experience at the

hospital and, after that, everyone knew about me and who

I was. That’s another reason why a rural practice can be so

rewarding.

Q: How has the SONA program changed over the years?

First, the requirements to get accepted into the program are

more stringent. A nurse must have a bachelor’s degree and

experience in a critical care setting. It’s gone from an 18-month

certificate program to a 36-month graduate program. I give a

lot of credit to Jim Cuddeford, who just retired as the school’s

dean, for many of these advances. Hiring Jim is one of the

first things I did when I began overseeing the school — and it

was one of my best decisions. Now, of course, the practice of

nurse anesthesia is more advanced. Technology, medicines,

the tools used — the advancements made are much safer for

patients, and they require more education in order for nurse

anesthetists to be proficient in using them for providing

anesthesia care.

To learn how you can support the BryanLGH College of

Health Sciences, contact the BryanLGH Foundation at

(402) 481-8605.

C O L L E G E A L U M N I P R O F I L E

Meet Charlie Meyer, who has been a director

since 1986 and currently is director of

perioperative and anesthesia services at

BryanLGH. For nearly 20 of those years he also

was in charge of the BryanLGH School of Nurse

Anesthesia (SONA). He was one of five males

in his Bryan School of Nursing class of 1972.

All five went on to become nurse anesthetists

(CRNAs). Charlie graduated from the SONA in

1977; since then, he has earned a bachelor’s

degree from Peru State, and a master’s in

public administration from the University of

Nebraska-Omaha.

20 Spring 2011

C O L L E G E A L U M N I N E W S

2011 Alumni CalendarAlumni Weekend June 10-11Reservations and prepayment required.

Friday, June 10Presidential Teas:

n Bryan School of Nursing Class of 1961, 10-11 a.m., Fairview

n Bryan School of Nursing Class of 1986, 2-3 p.m., Fairview

n Lincoln General Hospital School of Nursing Class of 1961,

3:30-4:30 p.m., Alumni Museum, BryanLGH West

Reception:

5-7 p.m., Conference Center at BryanLGH West, 2300 S. 16th St.

Saturday, June 11BryanLGH College of Health Sciences, 5035 Everett St.

10:30 a.m. — Annual Business Meeting in Classroom 200

11 a.m. — Registration

Noon — Alumni Day Luncheon and Program in Classroom 204

July 15-16 Alumni TripJoin us for the Nell Hill and the K.C. Experience. Reservations

and prepayment required. Visit bryanlghcollege.edu for more

information about alumni happenings.

To learn about other events or tickets, contact

Brenda Neemann at (402) 481-8692 or email her at

brenda.neemann@bryanlgh.org.

BryanLGH College of Health Sciences awarded diplomas to 67 graduates May 7 during commencement exercises at St. Mark’s United Methodist Church.

Master of Science in Nurse Anesthesia:Justin Abbott, Lincoln; Matthew Crandell, Lincoln; Gia

Forbes, Denver, Colo.; Brent Goodrich, Gordon; Tasha Hunke, Fremont; Benjamin Johnsen, Duluth, Minn.; Megan Johnson, Doniphan; Travis Jueden, Hartington; Nicholas Sorrell, Plattsmouth; Antony Waweru, KiJabe, Kenya; and Debra Webster, Grand Island.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing:Brooke Amsberry, Ansley; Kristin Baker, Lincoln; Chelsey

Bartling, Malcolm; Bridget Burgess, Lincoln; Laura Deever, Omaha; David Dudin, Lincoln; April Dudney, Lincoln; Jayne Dunn, Clearmont, Mo.; Amber Eberly, Lincoln; Brianna Erickson, Campbell; Tamera Fandrich, Dunbar; Juli Farley, Waco; Malynne Bebo Frohner, Berthoud, Colo.; Mira Gibson, Lincoln; Jessica Gregg, Juniata; Megan Hall, Coin, Iowa; Megan Hejtmanek, Maywood; Katie Helgenberger, Scribner; Ashley Hill, Lincoln; Hilary Huschka, Sterling; Gulchehra Kholmatov, Lincoln; Kelsey Krienert, Dodge; Randi Nielsen, Shubert; Danielle Nitzel, Crete; Lauren Parde, Beatrice;

Jennifer Pearson, Lincoln; Andrea Reichenberg, Cedar Bluffs; Kendra Rivera, Grand Island; Dyanna Salber, Albion; Kari Schafersman, Fremont; Allison Schleppenbach, Lincoln; Natalie Schultz, Fremont; Micaela Simon, Lincoln; Melanie Slocum, Hazard; Olivia Stake, Waverly; Melissa Stutesman, Wilber; Vanessa Sukovaty, Phillips; Megan VerMaas, Lincoln; Lindsey Williams, Lincoln; Tisha Williamson, Malcolm; Amanda Willits, Lincoln; Christine Wing, Lincoln; Ashley Wismer, Lincoln; Michelle Wynegar, Elmwood; and Jana Wythers, Lincoln.

Associate Degree in Adult Cardiovascular Sonography:Rachel Nielsen, Stromsburg; Jacklyn Pickerill, Lincoln;

Courtney Roberts, Midland, Texas; Rebecca Watters, Loma Linda, Calif.; and Cassie Woltemath, Lincoln.

Associate Degree in Cardiovascular Technology:Carmen Gardner, Lincoln; Tamara Giesmann, Sterling;

Roland Krahn, Lincoln; Wes Ruckman, Springfield; and Cale Tyler, Emerson.

Associate Degree in Invasive Cardiovascular Sonography:Kathleen Erickson, Lincoln.

Congratulations, May graduates

BryanLGH Journeys 21

22 Winter 2011

Jim Mastera, W.J. Bryan would say ‘Job well done’

May 31, Jim Mastera completed his last term serving the

BryanLGH Foundation as a member of the Board of Trustees.

Jim began his service in 1990 as a member of the Lincoln

General Board of Trustees and continued to provide volunteer

leadership after Bryan Memorial Hospital and Lincoln General

Hospital joined to become BryanLGH Medical Center.

He was instrumental in securing funds to build new

facilities for the BryanLGH College of Health Sciences, was

an active member of the investment and finance committee,

provided extraordinary guidance and counsel, and along with

his wife, Georgiana, is a very generous supporter. Please join

us in thanking Jim for his contributions that have enhanced

care for our families, neighbors and friends.

Getting the mostfrom your retirement nest egg

Want to protect your heirs from heavy taxes and make

your mark at BryanLGH? Consider leaving a portion of your

retirement plan assets to us.

Here’s how it worksAny retirement plan assets in your estate at the time of

B R Y A N L G H F O U N D A T I O N

hat a rich legacy William Jennings Bryan left to Nebraskans in 1922 when he donated his home and surrounding farmland as the site of a future hospital.

That gift was essential to establishing the progressive hospital which grew during the ensuing 85 years into a comprehensive health system, serving all of Nebraska and parts of several bordering states.

Today, BryanLGH remains locally owned and locally governed, which means it is continually planning, striving and reinvesting solely for you, your neighbors, visitors to our communities and even for those who may just be passing through.

I am certain William Jennings Bryan would agree his vision is being realized and approve of the stewardship of his gift.

His vision continues to inspire the work of the BryanLGH Foundation. We are motivated to ensure that future generations benefit from today’s philanthropists.

Throughout this and future editions of Journeys magazine, you can read about world-class care, as well as mission-driven programs. All are enriched by philanthropic support. We also

will share information you may find helpful in learning how you can be part of a

rich and growing legacy rooted in philanthropy.

Feel free to contact us with any question. The Foundation staff contact information is listed on page 23.

I hope you will recognize the different ways to support

BryanLGH contained in this issue and find them both educational

and useful. Thank you for your support of

BryanLGH.

— Bob Ravenscroft, BryanLGH Vice President

of Advancement and Chief Development Officer

You can extend first benefactor’s vision

W

22 Spring 2011

B R Y A N L G H F O U N D A T I O N

death are subject to income taxes, which can reduce the

amount that normally would be passed to heirs by up to 35

percent. In contrast, as a nonprofit organization, we are tax-

exempt and eligible to receive the full amount and bypass

any federal taxes. Income taxes can be avoided or reduced

through a carefully planned charitable gift.

Consider these gift options:

n Designate the BryanLGH Foundation as the primary

beneficiary for a percentage (1 to 100 percent) of your

retirement plan assets.

n Designate a specific amount to be donated to us before

the remainder is divided among family beneficiaries.

n Make us the contingent beneficiary to receive the balance

only if your loved one, as primary beneficiary, doesn’t

survive you.

Are you 70 1/2 or older? IRA rollover is extended and might be right for you.

Thanks to a federal tax law extension recently passed

by Congress, if you are 70 ½ years of age or older and have

an IRA, you can avoid paying income taxes on the IRA funds

you withdraw. The federal charitable IRA rollover provision

enables you to give up to $100,000 in 2011 to a charitable

organization such as the BryanLGH Foundation without

paying federal — and in some cases, state — income taxes on

the withdrawal. This even applies to your required minimum

IRA distribution, if you direct it to a 501(c)(3) charitable

organization such as the BryanLGH Foundation.

Learn more about retirement plan gifts and the federal

charitable IRA rollover by contacting Cliff Carlson, major and

planned giving officer, at (402) 481-3168.

Meet the Foundation staff

Bob RavenscroftVice President of Advancement and Chief Development Officer

bob.ravenscroft@bryanlgh.org(402) 481-3001

Cliff CarlsonMajor and Planned Giving Officer

cliff.carlson@bryanlgh.org(402) 481-3168

Heidi CucaMajor GivingOfficer

heidi.cuca@bryanlgh.org(402) 481-3139

DeEtta MayroseAnnual GivingCoordinator

deetta.mayrose@bryanlgh.org(402) 481-8287

Kathy WolfManager,55PLUS and Grateful Patient Program

kathy.wolf@bryanlgh.org(402) 481-3155

BryanLGH Journeys 23

24 Winter 2011

en Dermann says volunteering at BryanLGH is his

way of thanking the physicians and staff at the

medical center for saving his life.

“I’ve had several serious medical issues

related to my heart, and I appreciated the care I

received here so much I became a volunteer after

I retired from the National Guard in 1987,” he said.

His face is familiar to many past and present BryanLGH

patients, co-workers and fellow volunteers.

That’s because he volunteered in the medical center’s

former community health education program, gave

orientation tours for new employees and has served at the

information desk at the Bryan Medical Plaza since it opened

its doors 17 years ago.

Dermann especially likes helping anyone who seems to be

looking for answers.

“It’s a real cross section of the population that comes into

the Plaza, and for many this may be their first time in a big

hospital. I think it’s important to give them a little smile and

help make them more comfortable,” he said.

“This has been an opportunity for me to keep in touch.

Most people who come to the information desk aren’t at the

hospital because they want to be — a lot of them are older

people I can identify with and who feel good when you can

help them feel a little better or find someplace for them. I’m

also seeing a lot of expectant parents and visitors coming

into the Institute for Women’s and Children’s Health.

“When I see a patient coming toward me, I always stand

while I ask how we can help.”

If the dapper 83-year-old sounds like an officer and

gentleman, it’s because he is. With prompting, the friendly

retiree quietly concurs that as assistant adjutant general

of the Army National Guard in Nebraska he was a brigadier

general.

How he got to that point is an interesting story.

Dermann was born and raised on an Otoe County farm

and during World War II graduated from the local high school

at age 16. Too young to enter the fray, the red-headed youth

enrolled at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

“I received an academic scholarship and decided to go out

for football as a 160-pound freshman,” he said, eyes twinkling

This general

KRetired Brig. Gen.

Ken Dermann

finds volunteering

at BryanLGH

personally

rewarding.

24 Spring 2011

at the recollection. “Well, they must have been pretty hard

up for players because I lettered as a guard — but we did win

two games in 1944.”

The war was in its final stages when Dermann became

old enough to enlist in the Navy and see more of the world.

He served on a mine sweeper in the South Pacific for about a

year until the armistice was declared.

This veteran returned to his home state to work for the

USDA Soil Conservation Service in Weeping Water. He married

Shirley, and the Dermanns’ two sons were born in that

community.

Then Uncle Sam called again.

“Following my discharge from the Navy, the Army

National Guard was being reorganized in Nebraska, and I was

still pretty young, and it sounded like fun,” Dermann said.

“Because I’d already been in the service, I was able to join as a

corporal — it was the beginning of a long experience with the

Guard, covering various assignments over about 35 years.”

He quickly moved through the ranks during a stellar

military career.

With his typical modesty, the retired general stated, “I

received my officer’s commission and enjoyed many good

assignments and was surrounded by great people. Before I

V O L U N T E E R R E S O U R C E S

knew it, why, I became too old to serve.”

He retired from the Guard at age 60 and devoted himself

to commanding a large garden on the family farm. Neighbors

could count on sharing the Dermanns’ bounty of summer

strawberries and fall vegetable harvests. Eventually they sold

the farm but continued cultivating friendships.

Shirley and Ken have celebrated 62 years of marriage.

Their sons also were military professionals — one is a West

Point graduate — and today the Dermanns have three

grandchildren and four great grandchildren.

Helping others remains a big part of Ken’s makeup.

He’s a deacon at his church and has served on numerous

boards and committees over the years; now he’s on the

Volunteer Board of Directors at BryanLGH East.

“I found volunteering so rewarding that I just continue.

There have been a lot of changes around the hospital, and

I’ve enjoyed floating to where they thought I could help,”

Dermann concluded.

“I’ve met so many wonderful people. Life is good.” n

For more information about volunteer opportunities for

all ages and abilities, contact BryanLGH Volunteer Resources

at (402) 481-3032 or visit our website, bryanlgh.org.

You, too, can volunteer!BryanLGH volunteers serve in more than 90 areas

throughout BryanLGH East and BryanLGH West, LifePointe and the BryanLGH warehouse.

Volunteer opportunities are available every day of the week, from 5 a.m. until midnight. So, no matter what your lifestyle, we can help you find a volunteer opportunity that offers you a rewarding experience.

Call (402) 481-3032 to learn more.

Did you know?s BryanLGH volunteers range in age from 14 to over 90.s Our volunteers include students from several middle schools and high schools in Lincoln and surrounding communities, and college students from the University

of Nebraska, Nebraska Wesleyan University, Doane College, Union College and Southeast Community College.s We also have many retirees among our volunteers, as well as those currently employed who serve others by volunteering after work or on weekends.

Volunteers also raise funds BryanLGH volunteers also raise funds on behalf of the medical center. Through book sales, art sales, bake sales, plant and gift sales and other events, the volunteers generate funds. They provide newborn coverlets and tray favors during holidays, and last year they spent about $15,000 for clothing for patients in need and purchased $10,000 worth of Activity Room/Activity Cart games, books and journals to brighten patients’ stays.

proudly volunteers

BryanLGH Journeys 25

It’s cutting-edge, old-fashioned medicine in a high-tech world. That’s how Lisa Mansur, MD, FCCP, refers to palliative care — the medical specialty focused on improving quality of life of people facing serious illness.

“It’s a return to what we can do for the patient and not merely to the patient,” she said.

Dr. Mansur, medical director of palliative care, and her team have been doing just that since they started providing their services at BryanLGH in May 2009. They have served more than 700 patients, keeping the goal of palliative care front and center: to relieve the pain, symptoms and stress of serious illness — whatever the prognosis, at any age, at any point in the illness and along with treatments that are meant to cure.

Palliative care is not limited to hospice care.“It treats people with acute, catastrophic illnesses; people

who’ve been truly failing from a chronic disease or multiple chronic diseases; people who have repetitive hospitalizations or illnesses where they’re back and forth to the ICU; and people who have a new diagnosis,” Dr. Mansur said. “It has been extremely helpful for folks who are 80 and over who have more than one organ failure.”

Research shows that patients do better if they get palliative care early, and it doesn’t negate them receiving restorative care such as chemotherapy or other therapies — it runs alongside. In addition, a new study shows palliative care not only improves the quality of life, it actually extends it.

Dr. Mansur and her two nurse practitioners, Angela Johnsen, APRN, and Kelli Schreiner, APRN, work with patients to relieve symptoms such as pain, shortness of breath, depression, fatigue, constipation, nausea, loss of appetite and difficulty sleeping. They also help to relieve suffering through emotional and family support and communication and coordination among the patient, family and doctors in order to assure needs are fully met.

“We provide anticipatory guidance,” Dr. Mansur said. “It’s the process of showing

patients and families — or even helping them paint — the picture of where they’ve been and where they are right now so we can all understand where they’re going.”

Experts on the palliative care team may include doctors, nurses, chaplains, social workers, physical therapists and others.

“Our team is huge, and it’s based on interdisciplinary teamwork,” Dr. Mansur said. “Palliative care takes a village because as we help patients and their families understand and navigate this road of decision making, it absolutely takes

everybody.”Primary care physicians, as well as specialists

in all areas of medicine, have been supportive of palliative care. “The hospitalists at BryanLGH Medical Center — Inpatient Physician Associates — have been great advocates and collaborators,” Johnsen said. “IPA physicians and nurses recognize when patients and families need further discussion concerning goals of care as well as assistance with symptom management.”

This is just what happened in Mary Bassett’s case.Linda McKellar and her brother Michael Bassett

Palliative carerelieves suffering

Dr. Lisa Mansur (left) is an

advocate for families such

as Linda McKellar and her

mother, palliative care

patient Mary Bassett.

“ She gave

my mother

realistic hope.”

– Linda McKellar

26 Spring 2011

N E W A T B R Y A N L G H

came to appreciate navigational help when their 82-year-old mother, Mary Bassett, experienced acute renal failure after open heart surgery in January 2011. She refused dialysis, the treatment to replace the function of the kidneys which normally serve as the body’s natural filtration system.

“It was my view that she didn’t fully understand the ramifications of refusing dialysis,” McKellar said.

The siblings were well aware of the consequences, though. They knew death was imminent without it. In their state of uncertainty and not knowing what to do, someone suggested they meet with Dr. Mansur.

She knew it was critical to present the facts to Mary — to help her understand she was recoverable and that it was just too early to call it quits. At the same time, Dr. Mansur and the family knew it was ultimately Mary Bassett’s call.

Dr. Mansur met with Mary and her children and formulated a plan upon which they could all agree.

Mary Bassett assented to do one round of dialysis and counted down each treatment and the time when she would fulfill her end of the bargain. When the results did not yield machine-free kidney function, she again resolved to do no more. Her kidneys were improving, though, and medically, she still was recoverable. Dr. Mansur met with Mary and her children again to discuss the possible next treatment plan. Following thorough conversation, all agreed on another round of treatment. After that round plus additional treatments, her kidneys began functioning on their own.

“We’re not here to take a side,” Dr. Mansur said. “We’re here to try to show patients all options. It’s what I call finding the middle ground. And usually that’s the best place to end up because the patient is comfortable with his or her decision, and others can work on understanding why that is.”

“Dr. Mansur got through to my mom because she gave her hope — realistic hope,” McKellar said. “She told her how she saw it as a doctor who works in this field. She made sure my mother understood and did so in a very professional way.

“Mom, Michael and I felt we had a strong advocate with Dr. Mansur — someone who had credibility and who was clear and strong.”

Currently, the palliative care team provides services at all hospitals in Lincoln. And coordination with hospital personnel and the patient’s primary care physician is

key, so all are on board with the most up-to-date developments and plans.

Dr. Mansur and her nurse practitioners also use the latest electronic medical record software, which helps them provide seamless, quality care and coordination with the medical team from virtually anywhere.

“Our work with the patient isn’t a one-ended process,” Dr. Mansur said. “It involves a discussion with the patient, family and physicians to establish appropriate goals and expectations, to talk about options and then get them on a path that is acceptable to all.”

Palliative is a big word with down-to-earth roots. It’s derived from a word that means to hug or to blanket with care, and that’s an everyday occurrence for BryanLGH’s

palliative care team. n

For information on how you can support palliative care at BryanLGH, please call the BryanLGH Foundation at (402) 481-8605.

Nurse practitioners Kelli Schreiner (left)

and Angela Johnsen use the latest elec-

tronic medical record software to stay

linked to the patient’s care team.

Learn about palliative care at free seminar July 14

Lisa Mansur, MD, FCCP, and medical director of palliative care at BryanLGH, presents Palliative Care Medicine — Returning the Focus of Care to You.

It’s Thursday, July 14, 7-8:30 p.m. in the Plaza Conference Center, BryanLGH East, 1500 S. 48th St.

In our high-tech world, palliative care is a return to values associated with old-time medicine. It fo-cuses on improving overall quality of life for patients and families facing serious illness. Dr. Mansur also discusses how palliative care guides families in step-ping back so they can help improve the end of life period for their loved ones.

This free seminar is hosted by BryanLGH Community Health Education and 55PLUS.

To register, please call (402) 481-8886, or log onto bryanlgh.org, then click on “Classes and Screenings” and the “Community Education” link.

BryanLGH Journeys 27

28 Spring 2011

feature re what’s at LifePointe

B R Y A N L G H L I F E P O I N T E

Completely relaxing Reflexology has benefits for many conditions

At LifePointe, you can enjoy holistic activities that will

relax, rejuvenate and, in some cases, help heal you — such

as reflexology, massage and yoga. And you don’t have to be a

member to participate!

Reflexology stimulates healing

Most people know about the benefits of massage —

and The Spa at LifePointe therapists offer several

types of massage: Hot rock, couples and prenatal

are just a sampling.

But reflexology offers something a little different. What is

reflexology?

Matt Wiechman, manager of The Spa at LifePointe and

reflexology practitioner, explains: “Reflexology is a therapy

in which integrated techniques are used to stimulate reflex

points which connect and correspond to various organs,

glands and areas of the body. By applying pressure to these

specific reflex points, the body’s natural healing processes are

stimulated, which promotes a state of well-being.”

The art and science of reflexology has been practiced in

the Chinese and Egyptian cultures going back 5,000 years. And

it’s not just for relaxation. While most clients experience deep

relaxation similar to a full body massage due to the release of

endorphins, other benefits include reduced muscular tension

in the neck, shoulders, elbows, hips, sciatic area and spine,

and areas of tightness experienced before the session may be

gone by the end of the treatment.

experience reflexology, they choose to stick with it even if

they previously came in for body work and massage.”

Plus, reflexology and massage complement one another

well, he said. “We have a treatment at the Spa that we call a

reflexology/massage combo. It’s a 90-minute treatment in

which you get to experience the benefits of both therapies.

This way, if we find a certain area or reflex point on the foot

that stands out,

the therapist

can spend extra

time on that

part of the body

the reflex point

correlates to.

Our clients find

this treatment

to be very

therapeutic.”

Jane Lacy

of Lincoln is a

believer and a

regular at The

Spa at LifePointe.

“Once you get

into reflexology,

you can’t wait

to get back

for the next

session,” she

says. “I highly

recommend it

for anyone when

they are feeling

stressful times. There is nothing like it for stress relief or just

relaxation. It rejuvenates you.”

Holistic health addresses the whole person — body, mind,

spirit and emotions. Interested in reflexology, massage and

other services offered at The Spa at LifePointe?

Call (402) 481-6321 for answers or to schedule a session.

More details are available at bryanlghlifepointe.org.

Completely relaxing Reflexology has benefits for many conditions

What’s more, reflexology can be used to help with

digestive issues, lung congestion and premenstrual syndrome

(PMS). Clients also report deeper or more restful sleep after a

session. Many also find reflexology to be a potent and natural

way to ease the pain of fibromyalgia. Wiechman stresses that

reflexology does not diagnose or treat conditions that require

medical attention. Clients should consult their medical

practitioner with any medical concerns about their state of

health.

Given all of this, can reflexology be used simply as a

relaxation method?

“Definitely,” Wiechman says. “We have more than 7,000

nerve endings in our feet. Having these worked on during

a 40-minute session typically feels great. Once clients

In the hands

of reflexology

practitioners,

like Matt

Wiechman

(right), patients

find relief for

many health

issues — and

it’s a great

relaxation

method.

BryanLGH Journeys 29

You’re invited to sampleunique yoga variety

After a reflexology session most clients say they are feeling

refreshed, relaxed and energetic. Yoga is a great way to keep this state of mind/body and feeling going. At LifePointe, the yoga offerings are unique.

i Basic Vinyasa Yoga is a style in which many poses flow together in ever-changing sequences. People of varying abilities may attend, as modifications for all body types are offered throughout this class.

i Power Vinyasa Yoga also is a flowing yoga but is characterized by its intensity. This high-energy type of yoga involves many strength-building poses and has solid cardiovascular benefits. This class is perfect for people who want a challenge. No yoga experience is necessary, just a desire to work hard and have fun.

i Hyp-Yoga is the evolution of mind/body fitness that guides you through the journey of reaching your goals while staying balanced and in the present moment. Hyp-Yoga helps us connect what our mind wants with our actual behaviors. Whether you want to release stress, eat healthier or just be a

B R Y A N L G H L I F E P O I N T E

more fit, happier you, Hyp-Yoga may be the answer!

i Water Yoga is a new environment for practicing yoga — one that resists and supports your own movements. Because of the unique properties of water, people of all fitness levels can safely

enjoy water yoga. Conditions such as arthritis, multiple sclerosis, obesity and others can make traditional yoga on land difficult. The force of gravity during standing poses also may be too great for those just beginning physical activity after illness or injury. But the buoyancy and hydrostatic pressure of water support the body in all directions, making most standing yoga poses easier.

iGentle Yoga can benefit those in all levels, from beginner to advanced. Modifications are shown for all

levels in the class, so everyone stays comfortable yet challenged.

i Chair Yoga is a great class for individuals with hesitancy, tightness, balance problems, stiffness or other special needs to practice yoga with security, confidence and safety.

i BodyFlow™ is a Les Mills program, choreographed to music. BodyFlow™ includes yoga, Tai Chi and Pilates and is best for intermediate to advanced students.

To learn more about classes and events at LifePointe, please call (402) 481-6300 or go to bryanlghlifepointe.org. n

Instructor Liz Merey (right) leads students in pre-class stretching at LifePointe. She adapts her yoga classes to students’ individual experi-ence levels and says, “Anyone from age 3 to 90 can do yoga.”

BryanLGH LifePointe offers many exciting classes— and you don’t have to be a member! Call (402) 481-6300 or go to bryanlghlifepointe.org to register.

BODYPUMP™ is the original barbell class to strengthen and tone your entire body.

BODYFLOW™ is a yoga, Tai Chi and Pilates workout that leaves you feeling strong, centered and calm.

BODYCOMBAT™ is a martial arts-based fitness program.

CYCLING: Choose from 15 classes every day, from beginner to advanced.

WARM WATER ARTHRITIS THERAPY: The soothing warmth and bouyancy of water make this a safe, ideal setting for relieving arthritis pain.

YOGA balances body, mind and spirit. It’s a great way to de-stress, build

strength and flexibility, and increase energy. Choose from fast-paced to slow and gentle, beginner to advanced.

ZUMBA® fuses Latin, salsa and reggae music and dance, combined with inte-gral training, for a feel-happy workout. Find out all about it at our Zumba Party Weekend. Free classes are offered Saturday, June 4, 9 a.m. or 10 a.m., and Sunday, June 5, 1 p.m. or 2 p.m.

Find life balance at LifePointe: A variety of classes available for you

30 Spring 2011

5 5 P L U S

55PLUS ice cream socialcelebrates BryanLGH’s 85th birthdaynSunday, June 261:30-4:30 p.m. in the Bryan Medical Plaza Conference Center, BryanLGH East, 1500 S. 48th St.

Join other 55PLUS members as we celebrate the 85th anniversary of BryanLGH. Enjoy an afternoon of socializing, ice cream, anniversary cupcakes and the music of Mac McCune and the Mac Five Combo.

To register, call (402) 481-8355 or go to bryanlgh.org, then click on “Classes and Screenings” and the “Community Education” link.

Welcome to MedicareJoining Medicare soon? Attend one or all three of these classes about

benefits. Alicia Jones, program director for the Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP), will explain the ins and outs of Medicare, including online resources and help for those with limited resources.

nThursday, July 7 — Medicare Part A, B and Supplements.nThursday, July 14 — Medicare Advantage Plans.nThursday, July 21 — Part D Drug Plans.

All sessions are 10-11 a.m. in Classroom 1, Bryan Medical Plaza, BryanLGH East. To register, call (402) 481-3355.

55PLUS coordinators from the Heartland Health Alliance (HHA) met at BryanLGH in March. Coordinators are (front row, from left): Carol Carlson, Seward; Deb Whaley, Beatrice; Terri Janssen, Syracuse; Debbie Niedermeyer, Syracuse; (back row, from left) Barb Langley, Cambridge; Lori Lee, Connie Svik and Kathy Wolf, Lincoln; Shirley Siedhoff, Crete; Pauline Niederklein, Fairbury; Tammy Struebing, Neligh; Pat Samway, Lexington; Connie Schindel, Albion; and Deb Miller, Broken Bow. HHA is a network of 26 hospitals offering local 55PLUS programs in conjunction with BryanLGH. 55PLUS has more than 60,000 members, 65 percent of whom live outside the Lincoln area.

Join us for adventures!Traveling with 55PLUS is a great way

to meet new people and see wonderful

attractions. There is still room on our trips,

and reservations are on a first-come, first-

served basis.

To request a brochure, call 55PLUS at

(402) 481-3355 or (800) 742-7844 and ask

for 55PLUS; or visit bryanlgh.org and click

on “55PLUS” under “Join Our Clubs.” Then

select “Travel” and download your chosen

brochures.

Day Trips

nBrownville Village Theatre & Spirit of Brownville Dinner Cruise — Tuesday, Aug. 9, or Thursday, Aug. 11.nMahoney State Park Melodrama — Friday, Sept. 16, or Friday, Sept. 23.nAmelia Earhart and Haunted Houses — Tuesday, Oct. 4, or Thursday, Oct. 6.

Multiple-day Trips

nTennessee Valley Railroad, featuring Nashville and Memphis — Tuesday- Tuesday, Oct. 18-25 (eight days).nKansas City Christmas — Friday- Saturday, Dec. 2-3 (two days).

Connie Svik (left), DeEtta Mayrose, Kathy Wolf and Lori Lee are ready to assist 55PLUS

members in their new offices off the main lobby of BryanLGH Medical Center East.

To learn how you can support 55PLUS, call the BryanLGH Foundation at (402) 481-8605.

BryanLGH Journeys 31

32 Spring 2011

A C H I E V E M E N T S

Dr. Hibbardaddressesheart summit

Cardiologist Robert

Hibbard, MD, of BryanLGH

Heart Institute was invited to

speak April 4 during the 2011

American College of Cardiol-

ogy i2 Summit in New Orleans.

Dr. Hibbard presented

“Peri-procedural Outcomes

After Carotid Artery Stenting

with the First 10,000 Patients

Enrolled in the SAPPHIRE

World Wide Study.”

That study is evaluat-

ing effectiveness of a distal

protection device used during

carotid stenting procedures;

the device prevents debris

from traveling to the brain

and causing a stroke.

Dr. Hibbard has enrolled

more than 225 patients into

the registry — the most by a

single physician. n

Lancet featuresDr. Kruegerresearch

Cardiologist Steven

Krueger, MD, of BryanLGH

Heart Institute was among

the authors of an article

recently published in Lancet,

a leading European medical

journal.

The article summarizes

the Champion Trial, a study of

the effectiveness of a wireless

implantable hemodynamic

monitoring system in patients

who have had moderate heart

failure.

Researchers found that

six months after receiving

the monitor, about one-third

fewer of those patients

needed to be hospitalized for

heart failure and experienced

a better quality of life, com-

pared to those not using the

monitoring system. n

Dr. Lacyleads nationalassociation

Sushil Lacy, MD, is the new

president of the American

Urological Association (AUA) .

Dr. Lacy has been a

Medical Staff member at

BryanLGH Medical Center for

more than 30 years.

He’s also a clinical profes-

sor of urology at the Universi-

ty of Nebraska Medical Center,

Omaha, and a mentor in the

AUA Leadership Program.

Dr. Lacy graduated from

Christian Medical College,

Vellore, India, and completed

a surgery residency at King

George’s Medical College,

Lucknow, India, a urology

residency at Wake Forest

University, Winston-Salem,

N.C., and a vascular surgery

fellowship at Duke University,

Durham, N.C. n

Robert Hibbard, MD, spoke at the

American College of Cardiology i2

Summit in New Orleans.

Steven Krueger, MD, contributed to

a research article for the medical

journal, Lancet.

Lincoln physician Sushil Lacy, MD,

has been elected president of the

American Urological Association.

United WayBoard electsJan Garvin

The United Way of Lincoln

and Lancaster County Board

of Directors named Jan Garvin,

vice president of human

resources for the BryanLGH

Health System, as a new

member and chose her to be

the Board’s personnel chair.

This election continues her

long association with United

Way. While she was vice presi-

dent of human resources at St.

Elizabeth Regional Health of

Layfayette, Ind., Garvin served

on the Board of the United

Way of Greater Layfayette for

eight years. She was president

of that organization’s Board in

2008 and in 2009 was Volun-

teer of the Year. Most recently

she served on the Board of

Directors of the Indiana State

Association of United Ways. n

Jan Garvin, BryanLGH vice president

of human resources, has a long

association with United Way.

C A L E N D A R O F E V E N T S

College of Health Sciences Alumni WeekendFriday, June 10, 5-7 p.m. Reception, BryanLGH West Conference Center, 2300 S. 16th St.

Saturday, June 11, BryanLGH College of Health Sciences,5035 Everett St.

Your former classmates want to see you again! The annual

business meeting at 10:30 a.m. precedes the noon luncheon and

program in Classroom 204. Contact the College of Health Sciences at

(402) 481-8692 to make reservations.

Celebrate LincolnSaturday, June 11,11 a.m.-11:30 p.m.Downtown Lincoln, on N Street between 12-14th Streets.

BryanLGH celebrates its 85 years

during Celebrate Lincoln! Country

music star Rodney Atkins of Ten-

nessee is the evening’s headliner.

Pick up discount passes at the Kids’

Health & Safety Fair, and look for

complete Celebrate Lincoln event

coverage at golincolngo.com.

Entertainer Rodney Atkins

BryanLGH 85th Anniversary events in June have something fun for everyone!

BryanLGH Kids’ Health & Safety FairSaturday, June 11, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.Zone B Parking Garage at BryanLGH East.It’s free!

This annual event provides families with opportunities to

learn about children’s health and safety programs offered at

BryanLGH and other Lincoln organizations. Interactive exhibits,

demonstrations and entertainment offer chances to learn valuable

health and safety lessons in a fun and festive atmosphere.

To learn more, call (402) 481-5643.

Independence Center 40th AnniversaryFriday, June 17, Staff Reunion, 5:30 p.m.Saturday, June 18, Community Event, 9 a.m.-10 p.m.

To register, go to icaalincoln.org or call (402) 481-5268. Look for

more details on page 17.

55PLUS Ice Cream Social helps mark milestoneSunday, June 26, 1:30-4:30 p.m.Bryan Medical Plaza Conference Center,BryanLGH East, 1500 S. 48th St.

55PLUS celebrates the 85th anniversary of BryanLGH with an

afternoon of socializing, ice cream and music by The Mac Five Com-

bo. To register, call (402) 481-8355 or go to bryanlgh.org, then click on

“Classes and Screenings” and the “Community Education” link.

Dr. Raines part of upcoming CNN broadcastSunday, June 12, 7 p.m.

Tune in to see BryanLGH Heart Institute cardiothoracic surgeon Ed Raines, MD, on the CNN special health report, “The Last Heart Attack.”

Friday Nights LiveFree summer concert series at SouthPointe Pavilions6:30 p.m., 27th Street and Pine Lake Road

BryanLGH proudly presents live music on Fridays for our commu-nity, with special activities courtesy of LifePointe.

Performances: June 10 brings The 9’s (R&B/funk/jazz); The Vybe (rock/pop) performs June 17; and TunaFish Jones (blues/jazz/rock) is June 24. For a complete schedule, go to bryanlghlifepointe.org..

Time 2 TrainTuesdays, Aug. 16 - Oct. 9, 6-7 p.m.BryanLGH LifePointe, 7501 S. 27th St., south of Pine Lake Road

Whether you’re beginning or an experienced runner, we’ll help you prepare for 5K and 10K events. Receive a personalized training sched-ule, T-shirt, helpful instruction and plenty of motivation.

Call (402) 481-6300 or go to bryanlgh.org for details about fees and

registration. Our graduation exercise is the Oct. 9 Run to Overcome.

BryanLGH Run to Overcome2011 Adam’s RaceSunday, Oct. 9, 12:30 p.m.5K, 10K and Kids’ Fun Run begin atBryanLGH LifePointe, 7501 S. 27th St., south of Pine Lake Road

Be part of this inaugural event! This run is in memory of critical care nurse Adam Zetterman. To register, call (402) 481-5643 or go to bryanlgh.org,

click on “Classes and Screenings,” then go to “Community Education.”

Making Strides Against Breast CancerSunday, Oct. 23, Holmes Lake ParkRegistration begins at noon; the 5K walk starts at 1 p.m.

BryanLGH is the flagship sponsor for this American Cancer Society

event. Join your friends in a fun walk to salute survivors and further

breast cancer research. Register online at makingstrideslincoln.org.

RUN to2011

OVERCOMEAdam’s Race

BryanLGH Journeys 33

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1600 S. 48th St., Lincoln, NE 68506

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