FOCUS SPRING 2015
IT BEGINS WITH US...
Mike & Chuck Charlton
Donors
DEAR FRIENDS,
Summer is here and it’s a great time to look back on the first half of the year and celebrate our successes. This issue of FOCUS is full of information about our donors, the projects they have supported, and the impact your philanthropic support has on our patients. You will also see photos and read about our annual fundraising gala whose Todd Buch proceeds benefited the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit expansion. We are proud to report that the NICU is now open, providing improved care, comfort and privacy for our smallest, most vulnerable patients and their families.
Looking ahead we still have much work to do. The renovation of the Labor and Delivery unit is underway, with one room already completed. This is part of an important strategic initiative that will help us better serve the 2,400 mothers — and counting — who choose St. Mary for the delivery of their babies every year.
Finally, it is with mixed emotions, that I announce John Marcy,Vice President of the St. Mary Foundation, is retiring. For the past three-and-a-half years, he has guided the Foundation in its mission to improve and enhance quality healthcare at St. Mary through raising funds and fostering relationships within our community. I want to thank John for his leadership and wish him all the best in his retirement. As we say farewell to John, we also welcome Mark Erhard, Director of Planned Giving, into the role of Interim Vice President with the confidence that he will continue leading the efforts that help make your hospital the best in the region.
Thank you for being a part of our donor community. Have a safe and wonderful summer.
Todd Buch, Foundation Board Chair
One of 6 new NICU bays
TAKING CARE OF BABY
All the comforts of home with the most advanced technology
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t the final Ambassadors’ Circle meeting of 2013, the St. Mary Foundation announced plans to renovate and expand the Labor & Delivery and Neonatal Intensive Care Units. Marie Schickler, Administrative Director of Nursing and Dr. Prem Marlapudi, Director of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine and Chairman of Pediatrics, explained then why this renovation was so critical for our youngest at-risk patients and their families and laid out the preliminary plans and
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FOCUS SPRING 2015
A quarterly publication for donors and friends of St. Mary Medical Center
To receive an electronic version by email, register at: StMaryFoundation.org/focus FOUNDATION STAFF
Mark Erhard, Interim Vice President Foundation Director of Planned Giving 215.710.2719 • merhard@stmaryhealthcare.org
THE LEGACY SOCIETY
GROWING YOUR
LEGACY GARDEN
OVER LUNCH
Mary Jo Howell, Database Coordinator 215.710.2613 • mhowell@stmaryhealthcare.org Lisa Juris, Event & Communications Coordinator 215.710.2644 • ljuris@stmaryhealthcare.org Joann Kunigonis, Administrative Assistant 215.710.6117 • jkunigonis@stmaryhealthcare.org Kathryn O'Connor, Manager of Annual Giving FOCUS Editor 215.710.5894 • koconnor@stmaryhealthcare.org Karen O’Donnell, Director of Corporate & Foundation Relations 215.710.5791 • kodonnell@stmaryhealthcare.org Heather Procaccino, Director of Development and Major Gifts 215.710.2243 • hprocaccino@stmaryhealthcare.org Mary Romspert, Manager of Foundation Operations 215.710.2440 • mromspert@stmaryhealthcare.org Margie Zimmerman, Foundation Board Affairs Coordinator 215.710.2054 • mzimmerman@stmaryhealthcare.org
One Summit Square 1717 Langhorne-Newtown Road Suite 300 Langhorne, PA 19047
Please call the Foundation at 215.710.2591 if you wish to be removed from this mailing list. 2
O
Donors have a hand in keeping St. Mary on the leading-edge
n April 8th, just over thirty St. Mary supporters joined Mark Erhard, Director of Planned Giving for the Legacy Society lunch. Inspired by the spring sunshine and a recent trip abroad, Mark shared photos of gorgeous flowers and gardens he saw while traveling. The blooms were sprouting from vases and window boxes, lawns and manicured gardens everywhere he looked. For as different as they were in color, shape and size, each had something very important in common. They were purposefully planted and cared for to bring forth a healthy, thriving, garden that gave joy not only to the person who planted it, but to more people than they would ever know...exactly like a planned gift to St. Mary!
at this practice focus exclusively on care of the upper extremities — from elbow to fingertips. His particular interest is in the treatment and reconstruction of wrist problems and traumatic injuries of hands, wrists, arms and elbows. This passion was clearly demonstrated by Dr. Shin through actual pictures of conditions and injuries he has treated including carpal tunnel syndrome and trigger finger, wrist fractures, amputations and reattachments, and severe cuts from broken glass. The graphic images of these conditions and the surgical procedures to correct them were balanced nicely by photos of the healed fingers, wrists, and hands. The contrast of “before” and “after” in each of these cases illustrated the great care and skill of Dr. Shin and his fellow surgeons.
Following the brief planned giving presentation, Mark welcomed Eon K. Shin, MD of the Philadelphia Hand Center, P.C. Dr. Shin and all of the physicians
The generous financial support from the community, which includes planned gifts, enables St. Mary to stay on the leading-edge of healthcare and bring access to talented physicians like Dr. Shin to everyone in Bucks County.
There are financial options available that invested now and cared for by St. Mary will provide immediate and long-term benefits for you as well as make a lasting philanthropic impact. Look on the back panel of this newsletter for one example. If you would like more information on planting the seeds of your Legacy garden through a will, retirement account, insurance policy or charitable gift annuity, contact Mark at 215.710.2719.
In addition to his work with the Philadelphia Hand Center and St. Mary, Dr. Shin holds an Assistant Professorship in Orthopaedic Surgery at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia. He routinely lectures on treatment of the upper extremities including grand rounds presentations as a visiting professor at other academic institutions.
CAMPAIGN REUNION
MISSION SUCCESS
The Expanding on Excellence Campaign mission is complete. Thanks to the $13 million in financial support from the community the expanded Emergency Department, Surgical Services and the new Intensive Care units are finished and serving patients and families. Donors to this campaign were invited to come to St. Mary on the evening of April 9th to celebrate their collective accomplishments and learn what St. Mary is focusing on next to better serve our community.
Greg Wozniak President & CEO of St. Mary Medical Center and Maria Scenna Vice President of Service Lines & Support Services spoke about two new projects and initiatives. Both currently underway, one is focused on geriatric care while the other addresses the increase St. Mary Medical Center is seeing in obstetric care.
Greg discussed the need for units designed with an aging population in mind and the ability to care for individuals needing intensive care. Rooms with special lighting, nonskid flooring, enlarged clocks and a calming color palette combine to address the special needs of elderly patients. He also spoke to the needs of our youngest patients and their families. An enlarged Neonatal Intensive Care Unit with specialized equipment and space for families to stay overnight will ensure these vulnerable babies get the medical care they need as well as the time to bond with their parents in privacy and comfort. After the discussion, guests were led on a tour through both construction areas. More information on current construction and renovation projects at St. Mary can be found throughout this publication or on our website at www.StMaryFoundation.org.
GROCERY SHOPPING
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FOR THE CURE
McCaffrey’s Cancer Day going strong since 2006
fter losing a sister to breast cancer in 1992, Jim McCaffrey started a fight of his own against the disease. Grocer Fights Cancer Day has been an annual tradition at McCaffrey’s Market ever since. Five percent of grocery sales on this day are donated to cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment.
McCaffrey’s generates excitement for the event with great one-day sales, food samplings, live music, and fun and games for the whole family. Lunch specials and raffle tickets are offered for sale throughout the day and the proceeds are also donated. McCaffrey’s vendors are instrumental in the success of the event with generous donations of food and prizes.
St. Mary Regional Cancer Center was selected as the beneficiary for the Yardley store’s Grocer Fights Cancer Day in 2006 and has been recipient of both Yardley and Newtown’s donations since 2013. This year’s event, held on May 13th, raised over $18,000.
Volunteers from St. Mary Medical Center and Community League took shifts at each of the McCaffrey’s locations selling raffle tickets and assisting cashiers in bagging groceries to show their appreciation.
To date, McCaffrey’s has raised over $130,000 for St. Mary and the fight against cancer; a fight they plan to continue for years to come.
Check plaques hang in McCaffrey’s Market 3
COMMUNITY
OUTREACH Thank you to the members of the 100+ Women Who Care Bucks County group for the generous donation and for the opportunity to share the mission and vision of St. Mary with the community.
For more information on the Mother Bachmann Maternity Center please visit our website at StMaryHealthcare.org/MotherBachmannMaternityCenter. To find out more about the 100+ Women Who Care visit www.100whcbucks.org.
100+ WOMEN WHO CARE Making a positive impact on Mother Bachmann Maternity
Since May 2014, a growing group of women has been gathering with the shared focus of making a positive impact in Bucks County. Members of this group, called the 100+ Women Who Care Bucks County, commit to meeting and contributing $100 each to charitable organizations four times per year. Members nominate local charity groups and draw three to be presented and voted upon at each meeting. The organization with the most votes receives the pooled contribution.
On Tuesday, June 9th, the St. Mary Medical Center Foundation was nominated for a chance to win this quarter’s contribution. The brief presentation touched upon all services provided by St. Mary and supported by the Foundation with special focus on the newly completed Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and the ongoing renovation of the Labor and Delivery rooms. The women were particularly impressed to hear how un-and underinsured pregnant women who receive care at our Mother Bachmann Maternity Center will have access to these new state-of-the-art facilities to deliver their newborns regardless of ability to pay.
After all of the presentations were complete, ballots were cast and St. Mary was selected as the recipient of over $5,000, which the members requested be designated specifically to the Mother Bachmann Maternity Center. A representative from Mother Bachmann will report back to the women at their next meeting on how the funds were used. 4
RICO RIDES AGAIN
Motorcycle engines roared in support of cancer care
On Saturday, May 30th, St. Mary colleagues waited to hear the first hint of a rumble coming from Route 413. They watched in awe as motorcycles roared onto campus shaking the ground beneath their feet. The energy, camaraderie and sense of purpose among the riders, led by Rico Lopez, were palpable. This was his 6th annual ride supporting the St. Mary Regional Cancer Center. Brian’s Harley Davidson helped to organize this year’s event, calling it the Ride to Remission in celebration of Rico’s long successful fight against cancer. Rico, along with his friends and family, presented a check for $1,970, bringing the total raised through their rides to over $31,000. These funds help St. Mary care for thousands of patients in the Cancer Center each year.
The Ride to Remission motorcyle supporters
Greg Wozniak, President and CEO of St. Mary Medical Center and John Marcy,VP for the St. Mary Foundation, thanked Rico and the other riders for their commitment, compassion and support.
Denise Centeno, St. Mary Practice Manager with donor Julia Ponticiello
BAKING FOR A CAUSE
4th grader’s bake sale supports Children’s Health Center
Julia Ponticiello, a 4th grade student at Pearl Buck School, planned a bake sale for her community service project. She wanted to donate the proceeds to help children in Bucks County but was unsure of any organizations in the area. With her mother’s help, Julia discovered St. Mary Children’s Health Center in Bensalem. She was happy to hear how this program, along with the Family Resource Center and Mother Bachmann Maternity Center, helped children of all ages and their families when they were sick and also showed them ways to stay healthy and active. On May 25th, Julia and her family came to the Children’s Health Center to present the proceeds from her bake sale, a total of $125.00, to Practice Manager, Denise Centeno. The family was given a tour of the facility and Julia was introduced at the children’s yoga class. Staff, children and their parents applauded and thanked her for the contribution that will help support the services at the Children’s Health Center. Julia also drew pictures that will be hung up in the Center for the children to enjoy. For more information on the Children’s Health Center and all of the services at the Bensalem location, visit our website at www.stmaryhealthcare.org
COOKING UP A BATCH OF GOOD WILL
Young chefs have all the right ingredients for breast cancer patients
Matthew Aronson has always enjoyed cooking for his family in their Newtown home. When he heard about a young women’s breast cancer support group from his mother, Matthew was inspired to use this hobby to help. He pitched the idea of preparing and delivering homemade meals to women undergoing breast cancer treatments or recovering from surgery to his mother. In March 2012,Young Chefs was born with Matthew in the role of Executive Chef and brother, Benjamin, serving as Executive Baker; extraordinary roles for students in eighth and sixth grades!
Together, the brothers contacted local organizations to offer their culinary services. A family friend helped set up a website where interested patients can contact them to arrange a meal. Before any dishes are prepared, the Young Chefs speak with the woman to discuss her preferences and create a menu that will suit her likes and needs. After setting a convenient date and planning an appropriate menu, the chefs shop for ingredients, cook, pack, and deliver the meal. One woman described feeling like a “princess for the day” after receiving a meal delivery from Matthew and Benjamin. She said the food was as good as anything a nice restaurant would provide. Even more impressive to her was that this kind gesture was offered by two young men whom she had never met. The compassion they show to women and families, like hers, is the cherry on top of the delicious desserts that come with every meal the Young Chefs make.
Their focus on helping breast cancer patients touched local businessman and St. Mary Board member, Jim McCaffrey. Since the chefs shop at McCaffrey’s for all of their ingredients, they approached Mr. McCaffrey seeking a discount. They were ecstatic when he offered, instead, to provide the ingredients for all Young Chefs, Inc. meals free of charge. Matthew’s and Benjamin’s passion for cooking and caring has inspired other young men and women. Friends from school often volunteer as “guest chefs” and assist with the meal preparation and delivery.
In August, 2014,Young Chefs was officially registered as a non-profit corporation. While they work primarily with patients from St. Mary Medical Center,Young Chefs, Inc. also provides meals for women through Fox Chase Cancer Center, Gilda’s Club, and the Princeton Breast Cancer Resource Center. They have maintained a schedule of at least one meal preparation and delivery per month, including a printed menu and serving instructions with each. In addition to meals,Young Chefs, Inc. provides homemade dessert trays for various cancer support groups.
Matthew feels that what he and Benjamin serve to the women is more than just food. It is a kind of nourishment for the soul; a simple act that helps them to heal by relieving the burden of a chore, even for just one day. In the future, he hopes to take on an even bigger role in helping others to heal from illness and injury. He plans to become a doctor. For more information on Young Chefs, Inc. including pictures and recipes, visit www.YoungChefsBC.org.
GUARDIAN
ANGELS TAKING FLIGHT
Colleagues earn their wings in patient service
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he Guardian Angel program is a way for patients and their families to recognize St. Mary colleagues and physicians for their exceptional service.
While it is often a patient who recognizes an angel with a donation to the foundation in their name, occasionally a special honor is requested for those who cared for a loved one during their final days. Recently, fifteen colleagues were named Guardian Angels by the family of one patient who passed away on the MG2 unit. The compassion shown by every colleague who cared for or visited him was so deeply appreciated by his family.
When told about the honor for so many on MG2, Kathy Muller, Nurse Manager for the unit said, “I have an amazing team of nurses, nursing assistants and unit clerks who provide beautiful caring for all our patients but especially those at end of life. I am in awe of them every day.”
Congratulations to Clinical Team Leads Debra Kunkle, Anna Thomas, Ephraim Dingle, and Mark McSain; RNs Tracy Fischer, Chuck Radovich, Sekou Keita, Anne Lauer, Joanne Mastroni-Morton, and Susan Arleth; and CNAs Sandra Parker, Magalis Maltezos, Jennifer Markee, Christy Foy and April Pettis. Thank you for all you do for our patients!
Matthew and Benjamin Aronson
For more information or to recognize your Guardian Angel, contact Kat O’Connor at 215.710.5894 or email koconnor@stmaryhealthcare.org
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TAKING CARE OF BABY continued...
SAVE THE DATE ST. MARY FOUNDATION
35TH ANNUAL GOLF OUTING Monday, September 21, 2015 TPC Jasna Polana 4519 Province Line Road Princeton, NJ
Sponsorships and player opportunities are available.
Proceeds will benefit the renovation of St. Mary’s Labor and Delivery and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
For more information please contact Mark Erhard 215.710.2719 or visit StMaryFoundation.org
timeline for construction. Over the past 18 months, we have shared the progress of this project through our website, newsletters and face-to-face meetings.
We are pleased to announce that construction on the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) is complete. On June 2nd at 10am, St. Mary physicians and colleagues gathered together to celebrate the opening with a blessing of the unit and the hands of those who will provide care to its patients.
The entirely new NICU space was designed to enhance the family bonding experience while providing the highly specialized care premature or critically ill newborns require. Six private bays offer a comfortable environment where families can have around the clock access and interaction with their infant. A family sleeping room allows parents to stay nearby even when they need to rest. A private lactation room and sophisticated bottle warming system ensure breast feeding continues even when a mother cannot be onsite. Board-certified neonatologists and nurses trained in neonatal medicine provide leading-edge care to fragile newborns using sophisticated, but appropriately sized, equipment and technology. Every consideration was taken to make an infant’s stay in the NICU as comforting as possible for them and their family.
This project was completed as part of the newly established modernization and family friendly policies at the hospital. The next step in the process is a room-by-room renovation of the Labor and Delivery Unit. One room has already
Private NICU suite
been completed as part of the NICU renovation. Over the next six weeks, two more rooms will be renovated followed by the creation of two triage rooms with private bathrooms. The triage rooms will provide a private area where women who do not require hospitalization can be examined. The addition of private, post-C-Section recovery rooms is also part of the renovation. The construction process has been planned to allow for the continuous operation of the unit with minimal impact on patients.
As other facilities have discontinued providing maternity services, St. Mary continues to grow in this area with approximately 2400 babies delivered here annually. Updating the Labor and Delivery unit will enhance patient comfort as well as enable us to continue meeting such an important need in Bucks County. The Labor and Delivery and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit projects complement the recent renovations to the Mother-Baby unit. All three of these projects demonstrate St. Mary’s commitment to providing excellence in healthcare and improving the lives of everyone in the community. Look for updates on this and all construction projects on our website at StMaryFoundation.org and in future communications.
DONORS IN THE DIGITAL AGE
Interactive experience in the lobby and online
An exciting new change is coming to St. Mary in conjunction with the lobby renovations. A touch-screen digital recognition kiosk will soon be installed on the wall just outside the gift shop. This new display will allow donors and visitors to learn about Foundation initiatives and see the names of those who support them throughout the year. Designed to be interactive, visitors can search for specific names or simply browse through areas of interest just by touching the screen. The digital display will replace the existing recognition wall and allow for more timely updates. With the new kiosk, information can be accessed, securely and remotely, by Foundation staff and changed in a matter of minutes. In addition to saving time, changing from a physical display to digital reduces the cost of ordering and shipping individually engraved tiles for every update. A digital display is also not limited by the space of a wall, giving us more freedom to acknowledge and thank all of our donors for their generosity! The display is expected to be installed upon completion of lobby construction.
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In other digital news, this newsletter is also available in an online format. If you would like to start receiving the FOCUS in your email inbox, sign up online by visiting the News and Publications section of our website www.StMaryFoundation.org or email koconnor@stmaryhealthcare.org.
MEMBERS ALWAYS AMBASSADOR CIRCLE
IN THE KNOW T
Learning the latest about infection control at St. Mary he St. Mary Ambassador Circle is comprised of emeritus board members and passionate supporters from the Bucks County community. In addition to supporting the Foundation with financial contributions and volunteer activities, this dedicated group of advocates meets 4 times per year to keep informed of the capabilities and improvements at St. Mary so they are able to share this information with others.
Guest speakers Dawn Rumovitz, RN, MSN, CIC and Dr. Ronald Goren, Medical Director for the St. Mary Infection Prevention Program, addressed Ambassador Circle members at the March 13 breakfast meeting on the topic of infection control and hospital acquired infections.
One out of every twenty individuals, or 2.4 million people annually, may acquire an infection during a hospital stay. These types of infections, which most commonly include blood stream, urine catheter, surgical site, C. difficile and MRSA, increase the length of stay, cost, morbidity and mortality for admitted
One out of every twenty individuals, or 2.4 million people annually, may acquire an infection during a hospital stay.
patients. Reporting requirements in Pennsylvania require all hospitals within the state to report all instances of hospital associated infection. This information is shared with the Center for Disease Control, Patient Safety Authority, PA Department of Health and the Health Care Cost Containment Council.
Hand washing is the number one way to prevent transmission of infection inside the hospital and out. At St. Mary, all staff and visitors are reminded, frequently, to do this with signs and conveniently located alcohol-based sanitizer dispensers. Single-use gowns, gloves, caps and masks, also known as Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), are also used by clinical staff to protect themselves and other patients from dangerous microorganisms.
Another preventative measure in place at St. Mary is the Antibiotic Stewardship Program which seeks to educate physicians, patients and their families on the overuse of antibiotic medication, as this is a contributing factor in the formation of drug-resistant bacteria. As Dr. Goren put it, “antibiotics are semi-dangerous tools that should be used only when absolutely necessary to fight bacterial infections.” They are not preventative medicines and are ineffective against viral infections. Influenza is one of these viral infections.
The CDC estimates that in the United States, each year on average 5% to 20% of the population gets the flu and more than 200,000 people are hospitalized from seasonal flu-related complications. The best way to be protected against influenza is annual vaccination. Flu vaccines are developed using a combination of three types of influenza virus. To ensure sufficient quantities of the flu shot are available each year, the formula for the following season’s shot is determined based on research of the current season’s trends. Unfortunately one type used in the 2015 vaccine was slightly different than anticipated and many people contracted the flu
regardless of their immunization status. Dr. Goren stressed that this should not discourage anyone from being vaccinated for flu or any other illness. Vaccines are safe, effective and an important healthcare tool. They serve to protect not only the individual but also those who are unable to be vaccinated for age or health reasons. Dr. Goren also briefly addressed Ebola and how St. Mary has prepared for the unlikely event of exposure to this virus. All patients, whether coming for an outpatient visit or being admitted is asked about their travels and contact with others who have traveled outside of the country. Procedures have been put in place to assess and isolate anyone exhibiting symptoms of this virus. Specialized protective equipment has been obtained and medical staff trained on how to properly, and safely, get in and out of the full-body suits to minimize exposure and the risk of spreading the infection. Education and preparation are important in maintaining the health of individuals and the entire community.
Following Dr. Goren’s presentation, Maria Scenna, VP of Service Lines and Support Services, gave an update on the various construction projects throughout the hospital including the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and MG3, the former inpatient rehab. More on these projects can be found throughout this issue. John Marcy,VP of the St. Mary Foundation thanked the ambassadors for their attendance and support that helps further the mission and vision of St. Mary. The next meeting will take place in the fall. If you would like more information about the Ambassador Circle, contact Heather Procaccino at 215.710.2243 or hprocaccino@stmaryhealthcare.org.
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ountry y St. MaryCountr 2015 St. Mary Gala
I
n what’s being hailed by many as “the best one yet,” the May 9th St. Mary Spring Gala brought 300 residents of Bucks and nearby counties together to help achieve one important goal – the expansion and renovation of the St. Mary Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and Labor & Delivery departments.
This year’s country-western themed event took place under an enormous tent on the sprawling front lawn of a private, historic farm in Newtown, PA. Guests were enthusiastic about the theme and arrived outfitted in all manner of country attire to dance the night away. A professional line dance instructor, accompanied by live music performed by Jake’s Rockin’ Country Band, provided the inspiration and the fun. The highlight of the evening was a touching video presentation capturing the vital importance of the NICU introduced by and featuring the St. Mary Mom, Jen Posner. A wildly-successful paddle auction followed, raising funds for the purchase of specialized neonate bottle warmers.
The St. Mary Foundation would like to thank Dr. Richard Leshner and Ms. Kaia Christiansen for chairing the Gala and Ed and Lynn Breen for hosting the event on their property. We would also like to thank all of our generous event sponsors. Silver Dollar Sponsors: Turner Construction Radiology Affiliates McCaffrey's Market Charlene & Howard Schwartz McBrick Building Group
John Wayne Sponsors: Team Health Northeast Mercer Bucks Cardiology Blue Flame Gas Comprehensive Cardiology Silver Rock Risk Solutions The Endoscopy Center Middletown Anesthesia
VIP Party Band Cocktails Dinner Auction Invitation Dessert Valet Program Photography
Wild West Sponsors: Dr. Richard Leshner & Ms. Kaia Christiansen Greg & Beth Hayes and Merrill Lynch McCafferty Auto Group Del Val Cardiovascular Group Assured Guaranty Nason Construction The Wozniak Family
To see a full list of sponsors, please visit StMaryFoundation.org/2015galasponsors.
ala G g n ri p S y ar M t. S 16 0 e2 Mark your calendar for th 3rd. 2 l ri p A , ay rd u at S r fo d le tentatively schedu 8
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PORTRAITS IN
PHILANTHROPY
A BURNING PASSION FOR HELPING OTHERS Michael and Chuck Jr. Charlton
The Charlton family has deep roots in Bucks County
I
By Margo Aramian Ragan
f you connect the dots starting from one family's introduction to St. Mary Medical Center, you will find a trail of advocates supporting the hospital, to an outpouring of generosity displayed at the recent SMMC Gala held in May 2015. The family is the Charlton family, including Chuck Sr., his two sons Michael and Chuck Jr, owners of Blue Flame Propane Gas Service and Kenderdine's Heating Oil Company.
Chuck Sr., Michael and Chuck Jr. began their commitment to SMMC in 2004, and once that decision was made, they were all in as a family unit. They are annual sponsors of the Gala, and the St. Mary Cyclefest, co-chaired by Charlene Schwartz for many years. This year they were not only John Wayne sponsors for Dessert at the Gala but also raised their paddle for the new bottle warmers for the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.
“My family has very close ties with Howard and Charlene Schwartz of Newtown,” explained Michael. “They are business as well as personal associates, and were the catalyst for getting us involved with the hospital.”
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Howard pointed out that the family's roots and businesses are in Bucks County. The senior Charltons were raised in Bristol while brothers Michael and Chuck grew up in Bensalem. Both Howard and Charlene emphasized the distinguished record that SMMC was achieving as a community hospital, providing the latest state-of-the art technology and equipment to be used by physicians recognized as leaders in their respective specialties. Their arguments that St. Mary needed to be the top hospital in the community made perfect sense to Chuck Sr., who believed everyone, his family, friends, employees and neighbors, would benefit in terms of their health and welfare with a strong medical center. An additional connection to the St. Mary family was the fact that the three sons of Chuck Jr. played on several sporting teams as did the sons of Greg Wozniak, CEO of the hospital. The families became friends.
Their arguments that St. Mary needed to be the top hospital in the community made perfect sense to Chuck Sr., who believed everyone, his family, friends, employees and neighbors, would benefit in terms of their health and welfare with a strong medical center. At one point in this trail of connecting dots, Michael's family had a personal experience with SMMC. “My daughter Jessica had a ruptured appendix when she was 11 years old,” said Michael. “She was given excellent care, but I observed that the hospital did not have special facilities for children. That did not happen until 2013 with the expansion of the pediatric emergency care center in the Emergency Department. This memory apparently stayed with me because I thought of her immediately at this year's Gala when the auctioneer began the live Paddle Auction bidding for the new bottle warmers for the NICU."
The bottle warmers are a sophisticated system for accommodating breast feeding for fragile infants when their mothers cannot be on site. Michael and his wife Jennifer, Chuck Sr. and fiancee Noel made a collective decision to support the bottle warmers, and their paddle went up. Although absent from the Gala, Chuck Jr. agreed with the decision.
“My family believes that it is a matter of when, not if, one of us, or someone we know will be in need of expert medical attention, and if we can help in any way to make this hospital a bigger, better place to attend for those in need, then we are ready to participate,” said Michael.
Carol Benderson-Lighter, MSW, Life St. Mary
DONORS
COLLEAGUE GIVING CAMPAIGN 2016
COLLEAGUES BECOME
E
United in the cause to improve patient care ach year the Foundation conducts its annual Colleague Giving Campaign encouraging colleagues across the hospital and all off-site locations to consider making a contribution supporting the mission and vision of St. Mary. The funds are raised and used here not only to improve the patient experience but to make sure our colleagues have the best facilities, equipment and training they need to provide high-quality, compassionate care every day.
ship winners: Jeanine Burke, John Chapman, Rachelle Doran, Ryan Geiss, Jennifer Graeve, Andrea Gwynn, Christine Hammerle, Ryan Ihlenfeldt, Courtney Kroeger, Melanie Montenegro, Kristin Newbold, Patricia Tomshaw, Krista Wachendorfer, Jill Wichester, and Joan Yborra! Colleague Campaign contributions have also been instrumental in supporting expansion and renovation projects throughout St. Mary like the now completed Emergency Department and the continuing Labor and Delivery
“I support the Colleague Giving Campaign because St. Mary has provided me with a meaningful, fulfilling career for over 34 years, and has provided 3 generations of my family with world class healthcare right in our own community.” – Carol Benderson-Lighter, MSW, LIFE St. Mary When a colleague supports the campaign, they may direct their donation into one, or more, of eight funding areas. Among these options is the Spirit of Nursing fund. Donations made to this fund are used to support the advancement of the many dedicated nurses at St. Mary. Most recently, Spirit of Nursing funds were distributed in the form of Certification Exam Scholarships to 15 deserving nurses seeking to be certified in their specialty. Congratulations to the Spring 2015 scholar-
/NICU renovation. This annual campaign is an essential part of the Foundation’s fundraising efforts for St. Mary Medical Center. Contributions of all sizes to any fund are appreciated and make a tremendous impact on the lives of our patients and our colleagues. The 2016 campaign will kick off September 9 and run through October 16, 2015. Look for more details soon or contact Kat O’Connor at 215.710.5894 for more information.
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AN EVENING AT
ST. MARY
ALWAYS A PRIORITY IMPROVING PATIENT CARE AND COMFORT From renovated NICU to lobby, donors and friends get a first look
S
t. Mary supporters have been hearing for some time now about the changes and renovations happening at the hospital. On April 23, just over 30 donors, Board, and community members joined Foundation staff for an Evening at St. Mary to see some of these projects in a behind-the-scenes tour.
The event began with a brief presentation by Maria Scenna,VP Service Lines & Support Services. Maria gave an overview of all active projects including the lobby and gift shop, MG3, Labor & Delivery and Neonatal Intensive Care Units. Posters depicting construction schematics and renderings of the completed spaces were on display to show how these areas will be transformed. Sharon Brown,VP Patient Care & Chief Nursing Officer, then provided details about the clinical care that would be provided on MG3 and NICU once completed. She described how the updated areas will help our physicians and colleagues deliver leading-edge medical care to patients at opposite ends of the spectrum. MG3 will focus on geriatric care while the NICU will serve the youngest, most vulnerable St. Mary patients. Both areas present unique challenges that these renovations and upgrades will help to address. After the presentation, Sharon led the group through the MG3 Unit along with Matt Thrower from Nason Construction, the company responsible for the project. This unit formerly served as
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the inpatient rehabilitation unit prior to the opening of the St. Mary Rehabilitation Hospital in May 2014. Though not yet finished, most of the framework for the 26 private patient rooms, nurses’ stations and common areas was in place. Guests could see just how spacious the rooms will be to accommodate patients and their loved ones comfortably. Matt indicated several of the rooms have been built for isolation of patients with infectious diseases. These rooms have separate ventilation systems that help reduce the spread of airborne pathogens. The entire unit was designed to be flexible, with capability to serve as an intensive care unit in the future if needed. Other design considerations such as the location of essential, but typically noisy, features like the nurses’ stations and pneumatic tube delivery system in areas where they will be least disruptive to patients’ rest were pointed out along the tour.
The group proceeded to the NICU where they were welcomed by Marie Schickler, Administrative Director of Nursing. Marie informed the guests that the St. Mary NICU has been in operation since 1989 and this is the first renovation it has undergone. The plan for the unit will increase care and comfort for our smallest patients and their families as well. It will also allow for more private
Artist renderings Top: Lobby Bottom: MG3 Nursing Station
bonding time between the baby and its parents whether they are staying overnight in the nearby family sleeping room, or are commuting back and forth from home while their child remains in the NICU.
The Labor and Delivery Unit is also being expanded and renovated. One new labor and delivery room has been created during the NICU construction phase. The remaining rooms will be completed one at a time to allow the unit to remain in operation for the duration of the project. The updates will include environmental redesigns that will create a warm, home-like atmosphere for women to safely and comfortably deliver their babies. Please see the lead article of this newsletter for more information on the NICU/Labor and Delivery units. Contact Heather Procaccino at 215.710.2243 for information on the lobby and MG3 renovations.
HOME RUN DONORS HIT ANOTHER
Legacy and 1973 Societies gather for baseball, friendship and to learn latest in rehab
F
or the past 6 years, the St. Mary Foundation has hosted an evening at Arm & Hammer Park celebrating members of the Legacy and 1973 Societies. This year’s event took place on May 14th with over 60 guests watching from the Yankee Club Suite as the Trenton Thunder took on the Harrisburg Senators. Coincidentally, this evening was also Healthcare Professionals Night at the ballpark and St. Mary was invited to participate in pre-game activities. Stacy Johnson, Director, Business Development and Tom Bobroski, Director, Therapy Services of the St. Mary Rehabilitation Hospital were recognized on field with staff from other area organizations for their dedication to serving the healthcare needs of the community. Tom was then invited to throw the first pitch!
The brief program began during the 4th inning with John Marcy,VP of the Foundation welcoming guests and thanking them for the support they provide throughout the year. He noted that it was almost one year ago exactly that guests were sitting in this room listening to Lisa Haney, CEO of the Rehabilitation Hospital, talk about its upcoming grand opening and what could be expected from the new facility. Tonight, they would hear an update on the Hospital’s first year of operation. John then introduced Todd Buch, Chair of the Foundation Board. Todd briefly recalled how his experience as a patient several years ago prompted him to get involved with the Foundation. He expressed his appreciation for the high-quality, compassionate care available right in his backyard. Great care close to home is also a benefit for the families of St. Mary patients who don’t have to add long commutes to the city and paying for parking to the already stressful situation of having a loved one in the hospital. He also acknowledged that
the generosity of the assembled guests, and others like them in the community, are what make this possible for everyone in Bucks County. Todd then turned the microphone over to Stacy and Tom to discuss the Rehabilitation Hospital.
Stacy began by informing the group that since accepting its first patients in 2014, the 50-bed inpatient Rehabilitation Hospital census has been at or near capacity every week. This steady count of patients demonstrates the commitment St. Mary has to serving the healthcare needs of the community
Tom Bobroski throwing out the first pitch
as well as the trust the community has in St. Mary. She described that typically, patients admitted to the rehabilitation hospital are recovering from stroke or traumatic brain injury. However, some patients recovering from double knee or hip replacements may also be admitted for rehabilitation. Length of stay for all patients is determined based on insurance guidelines and progress toward recovery.
Tom was welcomed next to discuss therapies at the hospital in more detail. Prior to moving over to the new hospital, he worked on the inpatient rehabilitation unit at St. Mary for 11 years. He
Boomer and Foundation Chair,Todd Buch
expressed how having this dedicated facility with spacious therapy areas and state-of-the-art equipment has greatly impacted patient recovery. Patients here spend a greater amount of time in daily therapy increasing the number of repetitions of each exercise aiding their brains in re-learning how to use and control the muscles of their bodies. Tom expressed his dedication to keeping St. Mary on the cutting-edge of rehabilitation therapy by keeping abreast of new tools and techniques and partnering with generous supporters from the community to make them a reality for our patients. Though high-tech specialized equipment is an extremely important part of therapy, so is practicing everyday situations a patient will encounter once they are discharged. In addition to the areas within the facility that replicate home kitchen and bathroom setups, there is an outside therapy space where patients can practice getting themselves and any assistive equipment, like canes or walkers, into and out of a vehicle. As it is the ultimate goal of the hospital to discharge patients back to the community, these real-life scenarios help patients and their families feel confident they can manage once they are home. The rehabilitation vehicle has been in steady use since it was donated by Todd and Cathie Buch in February. Tom and Stacy took this opportunity to thank him for this generous and useful gift before fielding questions from the audience. After the program, guests turned their attention back to the game and Trenton Thunder mascot, Boomer, stopped by to pose for pictures. The night concluded with a wonderful post-game fireworks display.
For information on the 1973 and Legacy Societies or supporting the Rehabilitation Hospital, please contact the Foundation office at 215.710.2591.
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SAVE THE DATE!
COMMUNITY LEAGUE VISITS GARDENS ON LONG ISLAND AND CLOSE TO HOME
On Thursday, May 21, Community League members and welcomed guests traveled by deluxe coach to visit Westbury House and Old Westbury Gardens on Long Island, New York. A wonderful guided tour of the magnificent Charles II-style mansion, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, was followed by a walk through some of the gardens and landscaped grounds of this 200-acre estate. The home, one of many owned by John S. Phipps, is furnished with fine English antiques and decorative arts from more than 50 years of the family’s residence. Travelers also enjoyed tea at Orchard Hill, a Quaker-style 19th century farmhouse on the property that was home to Peggie Phipps Boegner, daughter of John S. Phipps.
Twenty-four people enjoyed a leisurely walk through the private gardens at Paxson Hill Farm Nursery on a sunny day in early June. Bruce Gangawer, owner and designer of the property located on Comfort Road in New Hope, guided guests through the 32-acre estate and talked about the history and inspiration behind his creations. There were many animals on the property, including peacocks, sheep, an emu, and two turkeys, aptly named “Thanksgiving” and “Christmas.”
October 11, 2015 A TASTING EVENT PRESENTED BY THE COMMUNITY LEAGUE OF ST. MARY MEDICAL CENTER
Clockwise: Outside Westbury mansion; lunch in Lumberville; turkeys at Paxson Hill Farm; Westbury formal dinning room
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A delicious lunch followed at the Black Bass Hotel in Lumberville.
Fabulous Finds f r u g al
shoppers take not
e
Bargains Galore! – New and Slightly Used Household Items, Accessories, Furniture, Toys, Clothing, Antiques, and MORE. STOCK CHANGES DAILY! Donate clean, gently used items Drop off weekdays 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. - Free pick-up for large, bulky items!
St. Mary Thrift Shop Pine Watson Shopping Center 140 N. Pine Street Langhorne, Pennsylvania 19047 MONDAY TO SATURDAY 10 a.m. TO 5 p.m. 215.750.8400 communityleague-stmary.org/thrift-shop
Beehive ribbon cutting
BUZZ ON IN...
REMODELED BEEHIVE GIFT SHOP NOW OPEN!
After months living in temporary quarters, the Community League’s Beehive Gift Shop is open in its beautiful, brand-new digs. Stop in for lovely gifts, fun seasonal items, jewelry, cards, snacks, and more!
Teen scholarship winners
SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED TO 10 TEEN ST. MARY VOLUNTEERS
One of the highlights of the Community League’s annual activities and fund-raising events is the opportunity to award $1000 scholarships to 10 St. Mary teen volunteers. Applicants must work a minimum of 200 hours at St. Mary and submit an essay about their experience at the medical center. This year’s winners and the colleges they will be attending are: Julia Gutsch, Drake University; Sanjana Jhaveri, Penn State, Main Campus;Victoria Levine, Penn State, Main Campus, Niti Patel, University of Pittsburgh; Pratik Patel, Temple University; Puja Patel, Temple University; Anish Shah, Temple University; Nicholas Wu, Princeton University; Parth Zalavadia, Drexel University; and Rup Zalavadia, Penn State, Abington. Thanks to these bright, hard-working students for donating their talents and skills to St. Mary!
Beehive staff
Always cheery and helpful, store manager, Kim Bantle-Taylor and colleagues are ready to help shoppers find the perfect gift or item. This terrific shop is conveniently located right inside the main St. Mary entrance. Flowers and other gifts are also available online and can be delivered to locations both inside and outside the St. Mary Campus. Visit CommunityLeague-StMary.org/store to learn more!
More FM at 101.1
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NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
PERMIT #28 BELLMAWR, NJ
One Summit Square, Suite 300 1717 Langhorne-Newtown Rd. Langhorne, PA 19047
SPRING 2015
FOCUS
StMaryFoundation.org
PLANNED GIVING: LEGACY GARDENING A charitable gift annuity is a contract in which you agree to plant a financial seed — in the
form of an irrevocable donation, typically cash or marketable securities — that will bloom into fixed payments for life. What remains after your lifetime helps to support the mission of St. Mary. Not only does a charitable gift annuity have a lasting philanthropic impact, but when compared to other conservative financial instruments, it also guarantees a greater rate of return for you.
INITIAL INVESTMENT ANNUITY RATE YEARLY RETURN TAX-FREE AMOUNT TAXABLE AMOUNT ESTIMATED TAX (20%) NET INCOME: CHARITABLE TAX DEDUCTION:
CHARITABLE GIFT ANNUITY $20,000 5.4% (AGE 72) $1,080 $806.76 $273.24 $54.65 $1,025.35 $8,302
CERTIFICATE OF DEPOSIT $20,000 2% (5 YR. CURRENTLY ONLY 1.75%) $400 $0 $400 $80 $320 $0
For a no obligation, personal Charitable Gift Annuity calculation, or information on additional planned giving options, contact Mark Erhard, Director of Planned Giving by email at merhard@stmaryhealthcare.org or 215.710.2719