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A life-saving detour

JOURNEYS

Bryan Health uses proven artificial intelligence tools to improve our patient care; however, this magazine is created entirely without the use of AI. “Journeys” is a human-generated publication that is dedicated to telling human stories.

“I don’t know what the future may hold, but I know who holds the future.”

SUMMER 2026

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We welcome your comments. For more information about Journeys, contact the Advancement team by calling 402-481-8674.

– Ralph Abernathy

To learn more about Bryan programs and services, visit us online at bryanhealth.org.

Russ Gronewold President & CEO, Bryan Health Elizabeth Wise Executive Vice President & COO, Bryan Health Michael Johnston President & CEO, Bryan Medical Center Alissa Clough, MD Chief of Staff, Bryan Medical Staff Bob Ravenscroft System Vice President, CMO & CDO Kevin Rummel, MD Medical Editor

23 Bryan Heart New Physician Profile

Bryan East Campus Renovation: What to Expect

Bryan Beyond 100 Time Capsule

24 Lives Transformed Through Bariatric Surgery

Celebrating Multi-Generational Connections at Bryan

27 A Road Trip to Nebraska Brings Healing for New Jersey Cancer Patient

12 From Colleague to Patient: Bryan Heart Employee Saved by Co-workers

30 Welcome these physicians to the Bryan medical community

15 “What excites you about the future of Bryan?”

33 Obituaries

David Berman Editor

19 A Fateful Detour to Grand Island Regional

ON THE COVER: Keenan Anderson peers through the passenger seat of his car outside of Grand Island Regional Medical Center’s Emergency Department. Read his story on page 19.

22 What’s New at Merrick Medical Center, Kearney Regional Medical Center and Grand Island Regional Medical Center

Bryan College of Health Sciences’ graduation on May 8 sent forth another group of healthcare workers to care for future generations in Nebraska.

n March 2025, we kicked off our 18-month celebration marking the origins of Bryan Health 100 years ago. Over a year later, we can proudly look back on a joyful period of honoring the people, places and moments that have made us who we are. With our anniversary celebration complete, one aspect continues as we further our journey into the future with the Bryan Beyond 100 comprehensive campaign. It will continue through 2030 with a $100 million goal and will take us beyond our past and present and into a better tomorrow for our patients. In this issue of Journeys, we asked people around our system what excites them about the future of Bryan. It’s heartening to see such enthusiasm and hope about

the outlook of patient care, technological advancement and access to Bryan services. The future is an opportunity, a yetfulfilled tomorrow when we can seize the moment and meet the region’s health needs. Our organization’s history is filled with people who worked for something bigger than themselves, leaving Bryan a better place than they found it. We’re excited to keep working with the countless colleagues who do the same every day. Thank you for joining us in this journey.

Russ Gronewold President and Chief Executive Officer, Bryan Health

34 Michael Johnston Discusses His Start as BMC President and CEO 35 News and Notes 36 Bryan Health 100th Anniversary Wrap-Up

Thank you, Bryan Foundation 2025 corporate partners Presenting partners: Fiducient Advisors Pillar Restaurant Group Pinnacle Bank Sampson Construction Annabell Gardens AOI Blue Cross Blue Shield Cerris Systems

Cornhusker Bank Davis Design Duteau Chevrolet-Subaru Eakes Office Solutions Eide Bailly Five Nines Forvis Mazars Health Catalyst Holmes Murphy

Inpatient Physician Associates NAI FMA Realty NRC Health Professional Choice Recovery Riverside Technologies Runza Silverhawk Aviation US Signal

Bryan Journeys

Bryan East Campus Renovation: What to Expect

s part of our Bryan East Campus Renovation, we are excited to talk about the expansions to our Level III NICU and Bryan College of Health Sciences. Read on for more information on how we’re shaping the next century of care.

NICU Expansion To meet increased needs, we plan to expand the Women’s and Children’s Tower on Bryan East Campus, starting with our Level III NICU. The NICU expansion will increase capacity with: • More rooms – greater capacity to serve more infants needing critical care • Expansion of services – areas that can be adapted to future needs, like pregnant patients who need extra monitoring before delivery • Other enhancements – updates to the Rooftop Healing Garden, family lounges, equipment and new educational spaces

Bryan College of Health Sciences Expansion

Did you know? Out of 3,400 babies delivered at Bryan Medical Center each year, nearly 20% are admitted to the NICU.

“Expanding the NICU will significantly benefit both employees and patients by improving workflow, safety and quality of care. Nurses who currently work across multiple floors will stay within a dedicated unit, which enhances focus, efficiency and job satisfaction.” –Becca Lindsay, RN, NICU

The need for skilled healthcare professionals continues to grow, yet Bryan College of Health Sciences faces challenges to meet that need. As we’ve added more degree programs, we have outgrown our Lincoln facilities. A future facility on Bryan East Campus will address space constraints and inform program expansion. The expansion will include anatomy and cadaver labs, and simulation and collaboration spaces for students and faculty.

Did you know? The American Hospital Association reported projections of 64,000 fewer nurses by 2030.

“We are excited to reimagine the Bryan East Campus and expand the presence of our Bryan College of Health Sciences. It will strengthen our college by unifying our Lincoln-based locations at a single campus. This expansion will enhance our capacity to produce more graduates and introduce new academic programs to meet the needs of tomorrow's workforce.” –Kelsi Anderson, PhD, President of

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This story is brought to you by Pinnacle Bank

Bryan Journeys

Our New Bryan East Campus Footprint

Other Ways to Contribute When you donate to the Bryan Beyond 100 Campaign, you choose what matters most to you.

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Emergency Care • Bryan East Campus is currently expanding its Emergency Department. This project includes adding more beds, opening a new public entrance on the east side of the building and greatly improving patient and visitor parking.

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Medical Care Across Nebraska • Campaign funds will benefit patients around Nebraska at our campuses in Kearney, Grand Island, Central City and Crete. Donate to help your community or another you love.

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Patient Caring Funds • Your gift to these funds provides the essentials patients need – like food, clothing, transportation and comfort items – so they can focus on getting better.

Proposed BCHS expansion

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Naming Opportunities • Naming opportunities within the Emergency Department, NICU, Bryan College of Health Sciences or other medical center locations can be found for gifts ranging from $5,000-$5 million.

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The land on which Bryan East Campus sits was donated by William Jennings Bryan to build a hospital. Bryan Memorial Hospital, now Bryan Medical Center, opened in 1926. The property has undergone many transformations through the years, evolving to fit the needs of Lincoln, the region and, today, every corner of the state. Through every evolution, the future was front of mind. That continues as we look forward to serving the region into the next 100 years.

Potential expansion space

We will address the needs of Bryan Medical Why Now? Center’s ever-expanding Level III NICU, Emergency Department and thewon’t Bryan The future wait. College of Health Sciences. The imageEveryabove highlights gift – large or small – moves where us forward. expansion for care and education are over the next Turn your passion intopossible purpose. 15-plus years.Join This oflearns theor$100 us. Beis theone reason aspect someone heals, ﬁnds hope.million comprehensive campaign, Bryan Beyond 100. Let’s go Beyond 100 and move forward … together. Generous donors have already helped us raise over $6 million toward our $25 million goal.

HELP SHAPE THE NEXT CENTURY OF CARE

Help power your purpose. Shape the next 100 years. BryanHealth.org/Beyond100Campaign

Scan the QR code or call us at 402-481-8605 to start the conversation on how you can be a part of Bryan Beyond 100.

Bryan East Campus Renovation Fundraising Goal $6 million of $25 million raised to begin NICU and BCHS construction

Summer 2026

61% of Beyond 100, $100 million system-wide goal

Let’s go Beyond and move forward… together. Bryan Journeys

Full-term and premie diaper

Bryan Beyond 100 Time Capsule

Both diapers are included to demonstrate the difference in size between a full-term newborn and a premature one.

Glucose monitor

The instrument allows patients to quickly read their blood glucose results.

n fall 2025, we removed a time capsule that was placed in the walls of Bryan Medical Center in 1986. This summer, we will place a new time capsule with updated items to reflect this moment in Bryan’s history. The Bryan Young Professionals group organized the new capsule, spending dozens of hours gathering items and employee input. Check out a few items that we will pack away to be uncovered for Bryan’s 150th anniversary!

Volunteer uniform

Volunteer not included.

COVID-19 shirt, pins and N95 mask

These items honor the loved ones we lost and the resilience of our healthcare workers during an incredibly difficult time.

Husker basketball picture

The 2025-26 Husker men’s basketball team had the best season in program history, going 28-7 and reaching the third round of the NCAA Tournament.

Vocera

Our clinical team wears these devices for hands-free, voice-controlled communication while in the medical center.

Bryan Independence Center graduation coin

Short-term residents at the Independence Center receive this coin toward the end of their treatment as a symbol of achievement, commitment and progress in recovery.

JOURNEY S SUMMER

2026

Lab automation carrier puck/test tube

Summer 2026

The Left Ventricular Assist Device is placed inside a patient’s chest to help their heart pump blood. How will cardiac care evolve over the next 50 years?

This story is brought to you by Sampson Construction

2026 penny As of this writing, the penny has been discontinued, making this version of the coin the final one created by the U.S. Mint.

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The tube – and its carrier puck – takes a journey through our lab automation line, which processes hundreds of patient samples every day.

A life-savin g detour

Journeys The magazine in your hands will be a part of history, as this issue and the other 100th anniversary issues will be included in the time capsule. We’ll see you in 50 years! Bryan Journeys

Celebrating Multi-Generational Connections at Bryan

others and daughters, fathers and sons, and every combination of family ties are present somewhere at an organization as large as Bryan Health. The prior generations have influenced the current ones working at and interacting with Bryan today. The current generations will, in turn, influence the ones to come. Here are a few stories of familial love and legacy at Bryan:

Sara Price One of Sara’s first Bryan memories is attending Bryan daycare, which used to be in the basement of the William Jennings Bryan house on the grounds of then-Bryan Memorial Hospital. Sara and her sister, Kristen, were in Bryan daycare once her mom, Cathy, started working here in 1981 as an administrative assistant in Human Resources. That was the start of a life filled with Bryan touchpoints. Four members of Sara’s family, including Sara, have worked at Bryan. Her dad eventually joined his wife at Bryan, working here for almost 25 years as a respiratory therapist. Sara’s sister worked with her in the kitchen for years and was later a respiratory therapist here. Sara’s mom worked in benefits during one period of her career. Sara remembers volunteering for her mom, she and her sister stuffing envelopes and organizing them alphabetically. It was an early exposure for Sara to volunteering at Bryan. Sara’s mom ultimately worked for Bryan for 35 years.

Sara is proud of a life lived at Bryan. She’s been with Bryan as it’s grown. She’s touched so many corners of Bryan Medical Center. 8

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After college, she spent 28 years in the kitchen in various roles. While doing patient meal service, she would pass out paper menus to patients and input their orders into a computer. Later, as a supervisor, she helped to open the Women’s and Children’s Tower kitchen and Bryan’s first coffee shop, Café Express. In November 2022, she transitioned to Volunteers and Customer Care, where she works as a coordinator. “It’s this full circle thing because I was a volunteer here as a kid,” she said. As she looks forward to the future of Bryan, she sees a healthcare system well positioned to thrive. “We are such a constant for the community,” she said. Sara is proud of a life lived at Bryan. She has been with Bryan as it’s grown. She’s touched so many corners of Bryan Medical Center. Most important, she’s formed lifelong relationships with colleagues, volunteers and patients. “I most likely wouldn’t still be here at Bryan if it wasn’t for those interpersonal connections,” she said.

Sara Price

In daycare, Sara also remembers walking around the Bryan Memorial Hospital campus. She and her peers would gather around the piano in the cafeteria to sing carols around the holidays. A few of her classmates from the time eventually worked at Bryan with Sara. Sara started working part time in the hospital kitchen at 16. She worked with multiple kids in the kitchen whose parents worked somewhere in the hospital. “It was great for a high school student because we were out of here by 8 most nights,” she said. “I could pick and choose when I wanted to work, so I did that all the way through college.” This story is brought to you by Davis Design

Sara Price (standing) as a child in the Bryan Daycare.

Wade with the sign bearing his family name behind him.

Wade Stange The fingerprints of Jim and Wade Stange can be found all over Bryan Medical Center. Collectively, the father and son worked on architectural projects at Bryan for over 60 years. Wade grew up in Lincoln, graduating from Lincoln Southeast and attending Iowa State University to study architecture. He graduated in 1979 and went to work at a multi-discipline firm in Kansas City. He was there for four years, working on big commercial projects and sports facilities, including renovations at Wrigley Field in Chicago. He enjoyed his time at the firm but felt he was getting lost in a big organization. A marketing position opened at his father’s architecture firm, and he jumped on it. “I helped out with marketing for a few years, but my passion was really architecture,” Wade said. “I worked on some education, commercial and financial institution projects in my early years, and then they needed some help in health care.” His dad also went to Iowa State, captaining the men’s basketball team while he studied architecture. Wade thinks this is how his dad learned to design quickly. After graduating, Jim and a classmate interviewed at Davis and Wilson, which had worked with Bryan Memorial Hospital since 1947. He stayed there for his entire career. In 1959, Jim took a train to Rochester, New York, with Bryan Memorial president Gene Edwards on a research trip for designing a new surgical wing of the hospital. That afternoon, the University of Nebraska football team beat hated rival Oklahoma, ending the Sooners’ NCAA-record 74-game conference win streak. Bryan Journeys

Sue Springman, MD, and Alex Keating, MD

Wade and Heidi, next to Wade’s parents, at their son’s wedding in 2015.

“My dad told me that they celebrated the win on the train ride to New York,” Wade said. “Over the years, dad and Gene established a really good working relationship.” Jim worked on Bryan projects from the late 1950s into the 1990s, including an expansion to Bryan East Campus that added new cath labs and a four-level patient tower. He also designed the new patient tower for Lincoln General Hospital in the ‘60s. Wade’s first collaboration with Bryan was a mid-1990s expansion to Bryan East Campus, including the Bryan Medical Plaza and Edwards Tower. His father retired right around the conclusion of that project, later serving on the Bryan Foundation Board. Wade worked on many projects for Bryan through his career. In 2000, a few years after Bryan merged with Lincoln General Hospital, there was an effort to spread services across the two campuses. The firm, now Davis Design, helped design what is today Bryan West Campus. Then, in the mid-2000s, Wade’s team designed the Women’s and Children’s Tower and Faulkner Tower, which contains Bryan Heart. In the 2010s, Wade worked on the new Bryan Independence Center and 5055 Building and the most recent expansion to the Emergency Department on East Campus. “I owe a lot of my career success to Bryan,” he said. “When I started out, I was pretty green in my knowledge of health care. Early on, the people here were so helpful in helping me understand what’s necessary for designing healthcare spaces.” Wade retired from Davis Design in 2022. He enjoys an active retirement with his wife Heidi, going to exercise classes and volunteering at Meals on Wheels and Bryan Medical Center. Wade has other family connections to Bryan, too, as his mother was a volunteer who delivered meals and worked in the gift shop, and his brother interacts with Bryan for commercial real estate. Today at Bryan East Campus you’ll find Wade volunteering as a wayfinder every week. He’s stationed near the Stange Corridor, named for his parent’s generous philanthropic gifts. He now guides guests around the hallways that he and his dad helped design. “One time, I did get lost,” he said with a smile. “It looks different on paper than it does when you’re walking.”

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Over the years, a few doctors at Bryan have had the opportunity to work at the same place their parents did, or even their grandparents. For Drs. Springman and Keating, the mother and daughter duo get to work together at the same pediatric practice. Dr. Springman is a Nebraska native. She grew up in Waverly and received her medical training at UNMC. Her older sister, Jann Carlson Quaife, was her inspiration, as she is also a pediatrician. After school, she came to work in Lincoln to be close to her family. She’s practiced in Lincoln her entire career and has been with Complete Children’s Health for 26 years. Dr. Keating has wanted to be a pediatrician ever since she can remember. Throughout her life, she had consistent moments of affirmation that it was the right path for her. She loved babysitting and nannying and, of course, had her mother as an example. “It was such a privilege to see my mom love her job every day,” she said. “I had friends at school come up to me and say, ‘Oh, your mom is my doctor.’ I thought that was so cool.” Dr. Keating also went to UNMC for medical school. She moved to Iowa for a three-year residency program, but she and her husband wanted to be closer to home. They moved back to Lincoln around four years ago, when Dr. Keating joined her mom at Complete Children’s. She has one son, Coleman, and was expecting another child at the end of May.

Both mother and daughter have a deep passion for pediatrics. They love establishing long-term relationships with families. “It comes as no surprise that my mom was absolutely the inspiration and the reason that I’m working here today.” Both mother and daughter have a deep passion for pediatrics. They love establishing longterm relationships with families. Dr. Springman has been to countless high school graduations for kids she has treated for their whole lives. Dr. Keating is excited to experience that feeling someday. “I feel like I’m part of the family,” Dr. Springman said. “It’s such a joy to watch children grow and help them go through the different challenges of their young lives.” The two pediatricians work at different locations of Complete Children’s, but they are in touch every day for professional reasons as much as personal. They will sometimes discuss challenging cases with each other.

Drs. Keating and Springman, with Connor Springman, MD, at Dr. Keating’s hooding ceremony at University of Nebraska Medical Center.

Dr. Keating has wanted to be a pediatrician ever since she can remember. Throughout her life, she had consistent moments of affirmation that it was the right path for her.

Drs. Springman and Keating on their first clinic day together.

“It’s been incredibly rewarding to watch Alex start out and apply her training,” Dr. Springman said. “She’s very passionate about her job, and I’m just so proud.” “It’s a huge benefit to me,” Dr. Keating added. “I’m able to ask questions, and the nice thing about it being my mom is I know there’s never any judgement involved. It’s so fun to collaborate with her.” Dr. Springman has a long history of healthcare workers in her family, including her mom, Elizabeth Carlson, RN, who was a labor and delivery nurse at Lincoln General Hospital. Her son, Connor Springman, MD, is joining Nebraska Emergency Medicine, PC, serving Bryan Medical Center this summer. Outside of work, the pediatricians maintain a normal mother-daughter relationship, one full of quality family time and loving support. “It’s fun to work together, but it’s also nice that we’re able to set work aside,” Dr. Keating said. “We still get to enjoy each other as a family,” Bryan Journeys

From Colleague to Patient: Bryan Heart Employee Saved by Co-workers

he event, as Rhonda Olmsted refers to it, happened last August. Two days earlier, she woke up dizzy and short of breath. The feeling passed, so she shrugged it off and went to work for a 12-hour shift. The next day, the same feeling hit. She felt better quickly and went to work for another long shift. Multiple colleagues later told Rhonda they didn’t notice anything off with her. What Rhonda didn’t realize was that she was about to have a severe pulmonary embolism, a condition that affects almost a million people in the United States every year. To save her life, Rhonda was transported to a place she holds dearly — Bryan Medical Center.

Moments of Distress Rhonda grew up in Beaver City, Nebraska, just 60 miles south of Lexington. She went to nursing school at Bryan School of Nursing and worked at Bryan for around eight years after graduation. She moved away for a few years before coming back to Nebraska in 2001. She joined the thennew Bryan Heart — technically as its very first employee — and remained part of the team ever since. On the day of “the event,” Rhonda wasn’t working. She woke up feeling fine — not at all like the previous two days. It seemed like it would be a normal day off for her; she was planning to spend some time with her parents at their assisted living facility and run a few errands.

Summer 2026

Ky Newell, MD, an emergency medicine physician quickly evaluated her. After the ED team ruled out some things, they proceeded with further testing, including a CT scan, which revealed she was having a massive pulmonary embolism. This occurs when a blood clot from the legs travels to the lungs and clogs an artery. Because this requires immediate treatment, the Pulmonary Embolus Response Team (PERT) was activated, bringing together several of her colleagues. Rajeev Anchan, MD, was one of the cardiologists. Rhonda and Dr. Anchan had worked together for four years. When Dr. Anchan started at Bryan, Rhonda was the person for his early tours of the hospital. He said she always arrived to work with a McDonald’s coffee. “You knew Rhonda was here that day if you saw that coffee,” he said He said that almost every day, there were a handful of patients who Rhonda had seen over the years. She always remembered them and their families. “She was a joy to work with,” he said. “She’s the one who would put her arm around you and give you a hug if you needed it. She could tell when anybody was having a busy or hard day and always felt like a calming presence.” After Rhonda arrived in the ambulance, Dr. Anchan said multiple colleagues told him that “Rhonda’s got a pulmonary embolism.” At first, he didn’t realize that anything was unusual. To him, that phrase meant that Rhonda was seeing a patient with a pulmonary embolism, not that she was the patient herself.

Rhonda as a Bryan School of Nursing student.

“As I was driving to their place, the dizziness came over me,” Rhonda said. “I started intensely sweating. I think I was kind of passing out as I was driving. I really don’t know how I got there safely.” She pulled up in front of the facility, feeling terrible. She got out of her car and fainted for a few seconds. Nobody saw her in distress. She woke up a few moments later, slowly stood up and got inside, where she went to the bathroom to try to collect herself. She felt more and more faint, and she knew then that she needed to get help. She made it back outside to the lobby, where her dad was waiting for her. He could immediately tell something was wrong. He helped her down into a chair, where an on-site technician examined her. Rhonda’s blood pressure and heart rate were at dangerous levels, and the facility staff called 911. The ambulance arrived, and EMTs gave Rhonda oxygen and IV fluids as they started the short drive to Bryan East Campus — Rhonda’s place of work.

He tried to get a hold of her to get a rundown on this phantom patient. It hit him that something was wrong when he got to the emergency room and multiple providers were standing outside the room. “I remember somebody looking at me and saying, ‘It’s Rhonda,’” he said. “I had expected to see Rhonda standing at the head of the bed, talking with a patient. When I looked in, it was Rhonda lying in the bed with a bunch of Bryan Heart staff and family members around her.”

Taking Action

Treated by Colleagues A few minutes later, Rhonda was rolled into the emergency department, through halls that she had walked countless times. “I’m asking them what room we are going to, and they said Room 3,” she said. “I told them, ‘Well, you’re going the wrong way.’” This story is brought to you by Eide Bailly

Rhonda (standing, right) poses with legendary Nebraska football coach Tom Osborne on a 1985 magazine cover.

Dr. Anchan and the team went through the treatment options with Rhonda — options that she was very familiar with, having treated similar patients in the past. It was decided that Rhonda needed a thrombectomy, a procedure where a thin tube called a catheter is placed through the right side of the heart into the pulmonary arteries. Once in place, the catheter is used to suction out the clots to restore blood flow through the lungs. Bryan Journeys

“What excites you about the future of Bryan?”

“Everything just happened perfectly, from where I was to who treated me. Being treated by my people made me super proud to be a part of this team.” “I knew everybody in the cath lab who was working on me,” she said. “I remember very clearly how fast they were working, because I was very unstable. The first clot they removed, I started feeling a lot better.” Once she was stable, Rhonda was moved to the ICU. She was on oxygen for a day, and her heart rate slowly came down. Her legs were scanned and it was revealed that they were full of other clots. Rhonda was surprised, because usually people with that many clots in their legs have swelling, redness and pain. She had none of that. Remarkably, Rhonda had no pain during the entire experience. She was only hospitalized for two days and was advised to take a week off work – a precaution she didn’t feel she needed. She will remain on blood thinning medication for the rest of her life to lower the risk of future complications. At her three-month follow-up appointment, a repeat echocardiogram showed encouraging news: there was no evidence to suggest remaining blockage in her arteries. While she was in the hospital, she received many visitors. Dr. Anchan said every time he would check on her, there were lots of people in the room providing support and little gifts. “It’s so telling to the person Rhonda is,” he said. “It’s a testament to the fact that she’s cared for so many people.”

Fall 2025

Rhonda with her colleague Isaac Meier, MD, Bryan Heart cardiologist.

“The ongoing advancement of the neurological sciences at Bryan. We now have effective treatments for ischemic stroke, multiple sclerosis and Alzheimer’s disease among many others. We’ll continue to be on the leading edge of treatment, allowing us to prevent disability and save the lives of people with these previously untreatable diseases.” Matthew Purbaugh, MD, neurohospitalist at Bryan Medical Center

Newfound Appreciation It was a surreal experience for Rhonda to be on the patient side of treatments she has been a part of for years. “It was just so amazing, because I saw Bryan Health work perfectly for me as a patient,” she said. She wrote to everybody on her team to thank them for her care. Her first text was to somebody who wasn’t even there that day. Isaac Meier, MD, a Bryan Heart cardiologist, developed the PERT team that saved Rhonda’s life. Rhonda gets emotional as she reflects on everything that had to go right for her that day. “I know if I hadn’t gone to see my parents that day, I would have died at home,” she said. “Everything just happened perfectly, from where I was to who treated me. Being treated by my people made me super proud to be a part of this team.”

“Grand Island Regional Medical Center began with community and an idea. This 67-bed hospital is the cornerstone of Prairie Commons. It anchors a neighborhood extending the good promises of work and home.” Ann Sukraw-Lutz, executive assistant at Grand Island Regional Medical Center

This story is brought to you by Pillar Restaurant Group

“I am excited to watch Women’s & Children’s services grow, not only to be here to care for my growing family, but also for the needs of the community.” Kara Champoux, RN, pictured with her husband, Lucas, and their children, Chloe and Eli.

“I have experienced Bryan Health many times as a spouse, loved one, patient, friend and volunteer. I am positive that Bryan will continue to elevate the quality of life – and health – for our community.” Shirley Prochazka, volunteer and member of Volunteers and Customer Care Advisory Council at Bryan Medical Center

“As a front-line nurse, what excites me most about the future of Bryan is the integration of virtual nursing to enhance workflow efficiency, along with the use of AI-powered care plan notes with clear and comprehensive summaries for each shift’s events and the patient’s care.” Lauren Justesen, RN and virtual nurse at Bryan Medical Center

Bryan Journeys

“What excites you about the future of Bryan?”

“What excites me is the clear growth across the state. Expanding into the Omaha metro market shows a commitment to reaching more patients and staying competitive, while projects like the Kearney Cancer Center demonstrate a strong investment in advanced, specialized care closer to home.”

“What excites me most is the continued investment in rural health care and the impact that has on communities like Central City. Every rural community is unique and being part of a system that supports local decisionmaking while providing strong resources allows us to meet those individual needs.” Jodi Mohr, president and CEO of Merrick Medical Center

Kyle Reimers, Merrick Medical Center materials management manager “Bryan’s use of data and patient feedback improves outcomes and safety, enhancing patient care through technological innovation.” “Bryan has consistently provided avenues for me to contribute meaningfully – sharing my expertise with teammates, leading technical initiatives, participating in the Bryan Emerging Leader cohort and onboarding new colleagues. These experiences have reinforced that Bryan is invested in my growth and in the future we are building together.” Drew Fausett, IT systems administrator

“With health care changing at a rapid pace, it’s comforting to know that the leadership of Bryan Health is constantly updating and improving the types and tactics of care available to the residents of central Nebraska.” Jeff Hinrichs, Kearney Regional Medical Center board chairman

Summer 2026

Lori Baumann, RN, acute care nurse manager at Crete Area Medical Center

“What excites me is an opportunity to observe a healthcare system with a visionary leadership that is clearly committed to growth, innovation and communitycentered care. Merrick Medical Center plays a vital role in ensuring that rural communities have access to close, reliable and compassionate care.” Ray Huggett, member of Merrick Medical Center Foundation Board

“The team’s understanding of keeping care in health care. I have witnessed the peoplecentered, excellence in care mindset. Technology and innovation are valued as complementary resources, yet the core of care at Bryan is firmly people-driven and people-led.” Michaella Kumke, Bryan Medical Center board member and president & CEO of the Food Bank of Lincoln

“The future of health care gives us more tools, but compassion will always be the most powerful one. That’s what I’m excited to watch Bryan continue to bring.” Kenzie Casanova, RN, Kearney Regional Medical Center outpatient surgery center

“The strong foundation Bryan continues to build for its students. As a recent graduate, I’ve already seen how dedicated the faculty and staff are to helping us succeed. It’s inspiring to think about how Bryan will continue shaping the next generation of nurses.” Darla Nichols, BSN, Bryan College of Health Sciences Class of 2026

“As I retire after 45 years in the laboratory, I can look back at how far we have come in providing faster, safer and accurate testing that supports patient care.” Susan Blackburn, medical laboratory scientist at Grand Island Regional Medical Center

“With our growth the past 12 years comes the opportunity to expand access for patients and keep high-quality health care close to them. It’s inspiring to see how far we’ve come and even more meaningful to be a part of a team that treats our patients like family.” Joanna Pritchard, RN, outpatient services manager at Kearney Regional Medical Center

Bryan Journeys

“What excites you about the future of Bryan?”

“The diversity of care being offered in our more rural areas of Nebraska.” Katie Keller, laboratory specialist at Crete Area Medical Center

“The commitment made by Bryan Health to focus on the needs of Nebraska communities. I appreciate that we create action plans to be able to meet these needs while managing our resources in a responsible and ethical manner.” Becky Coatney, Nutrition and Dining Services operations manager at Bryan Medical Center

“The foundation built through its past. Bryan’s longstanding commitment to excellence, innovation and investment has created a legacy of leadership in health care that continues to grow only stronger. While its history is remarkable, I truly believe the very best is yet to come.” Lori Seibel, former president and CEO of Community Health Endowment of Lincoln

“I look forward to Bryan continuing to do what I have seen it accomplish during my 20 years here. Bryan has consistently been on the cutting edge of new therapies that make a meaningful contribution to our patients’ health. I have seen incredibly caring providers help people to feel better, live longer and be more able to enjoy life.” Joseph Kummer, MD, Bryan Heart cardiologist

Summer 2026

“In 2026, Bryan will begin using a mobile mammogram bus to screen more patient populations and bridge gaps in early breast cancer detection and treatment. Bryan has also begun the process to become accredited under the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers. It is an exciting time to be involved with the Bryan cancer program.” Lisa Hernandez, RN, nurse navigator at April Sampson Cancer Center

A Fateful Detour to Grand Island Regional

car ride following routine surgery turned into a ticking clock for Keenan Anderson. This story is one of trust and love and a strong dose of good

fortune. A lot went wrong for Keenan on his fateful drive home last summer; even more had to go right for him to survive.

The Lead-Up to Surgery Keenan was born and raised in Grand Island. His wife Heather was born in Nashville but has lived in Grand Island since the age of 14. They met through a mutual friend at a game night a few years ago. “I remember her walking in the door, looking so cool,” Keenan said affectionately. “Then her coat caught on the doorknob and she kind of stumbled backward. I think that caught my attention.” Heather jokes that she did that on purpose. The couple hit it off and have now been married for close to five years. Keenan works for the City of Grand Island as an IT infrastructure engineer. Heather used to work as a nurse at Grand Island Regional Medical Center but now works as a hospice nurse. Keenan has spinal issues that he has dealt with over the years. One of the issues his surgeon wanted to address last year was his spinal stenosis, which is the narrowing of spaces within the spinal canal. The smaller space puts pressure on the spinal cord and surrounding nerves. Keenan first had a surgery to relieve this pressure. He then needed a second surgery in Omaha to correct kyphosis – an excessive forward curve in the spine that can make it look like a person is hunched over. The morning of the second surgery, on August 26, 2025, Keenan and Heather arrived in Omaha. Keenan woke up from the routine procedure a few hours later feeling fine. He was discharged later that day.

Heading Home The couple hopped on Interstate 80 and drove west to get home to Grand Island. Somewhere around Lincoln, a small lump developed in his neck where the incision had been. At first, Keenan didn’t think much of it, but it started to grow. By the time he and Heather were between the York and Aurora exits, Keenan was having trouble talking. His voice was extremely scratchy and hoarse. Behind the wheel, Heather quickly glanced over at Keenan. With her medical experience, she knew that the situation was serious. “I didn’t want to act like it was as critical as it was so he would stay calm,” she said. “So, I told him that maybe he was having an allergic reaction, and we would get him treated. But in my mind, I was freaking out.” Heather knew she could pull off the road to seek emergency care, but because of the couple’s prior experiences at GIRMC, though, they made the decision to press on. “My gut told me to keep going and get back home,” Heather said. Bryan Journeys

Keenan’s condition continued to worsen. He started to have difficulty breathing. “I knew that whatever was going on in my neck was starting to compress my windpipe,” he said. “I was starting to get quite panicked.” His breaths got shorter and shorter as they pulled off I-80 at the Grand Island exit. It takes just under 10 minutes to reach GIRMC after leaving the interstate. “By the time we actually pulled up in front of the emergency room doors, I could no longer breathe.”

A Race Against Time The couple leapt out of the car – Heather doesn’t think she turned off the engine – and raced inside. Keenan ran past the check-in desk and stumbled into the ED. Staff quickly took one look at Keenan and immediately brought him to a room for emergency treatment. Heather recognized the clinical lead nurse in the ED, Erin Nowak, RN, from Heather’s time working at GIRMC. While Keenan was being treated, Heather told Erin the backstory of Keenan’s surgery and his condition as they drove home. “She was definitely trying to be the calm to his storm,” Erin said. “With her medical background, that’s always challenging to step back from that role and be the family member in that situation.” In those moments of fierce stress and uncertainty,

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Heather said she found some comfort in her familiarity with the surroundings and people at GIRMC. “One of the reassuring things for me was that there were familiar faces,” Heather said. “I had worked with some of the people before and just felt as safe as I could in that situation. Keenan’s memories start to get fuzzy at this point, as his brain was without oxygen. He mostly remembers the feeling of intense panic. Heather said her husband looked at her and choked out the words, “Honey, I’m dying.” Ear, nose and throat specialist Tyler Bliss, MD – one member of the treatment team – quickly assessed that Keenan was bleeding in his neck cavity. Dr. Bliss and the rest of the care team cleared the fluid and restored his airway. Ultimately, Keenan went around three minutes without oxygen. Any longer, and he could have suffered permanent brain damage. Erin said they were able to quickly call in the necessary specialists to safely navigate his unusual scenario. “The stars aligned for Keenan, and I’m very grateful that we were able to get everybody there in such a short amount of time to stop the bleeding that was causing his issues,” Erin said.

Keenan, Heather and family at the wedding of Heather’s daughter and Keenan’s stepdaughter, Abby. “That’s When I Knew He was OK” Once Keenan was stabilized, Dr. Bliss told Heather that Keenan would need surgery and invited her back to Keenan’s room for a few moments. She got up from the waiting room and returned nervously to the ED to speak to an unconscious, intubated Keenan. “He was so pale,” she said. “I didn’t know if he was going to make it, to be honest. I thought, ‘What am I going to do?’ There was so much going through my mind.” The team then transferred Keenan to the OR. Friends and family showed up for Heather while she was waiting during Keenan’s surgery. After the surgery, Dr. Bliss told Heather that Keenan’s vitals had stabilized and he would be moved to the ICU. Keenan was lightly sedated when Heather and her oldest son went to see him for the first time after surgery. They were able to hold his hand, see his eyes open and tell him they loved him. He was on a ventilator for two and a half days. Soon, Keenan could communicate with his nurses and family with a notepad. One of his main concerns was whether the hospital television network would show the opening Nebraska football game against the University of Cincinnati. “That’s when I knew that, cognitively, he was ok,” Heather said. Heather remained with Keenan during his entire hospital stay, sleeping in a chair next to his bed, reclining with her foot on his hand.

When his breathing tube was removed, Keenan coughed up a bit of mucus and then took a huge, deep breath to test his lungs. All felt normal. “I knew at that point I was going to be very lucky and get out of this,” he said.

Gratitude He was discharged on Friday, three days after his emergency. On Saturday night, he and Heather went out to eat with friends. Keenan only missed the next week of work as he continued to recover mentally as much as physically. “I felt so good; I think I was just so elated to have made it through,” he said. “I just wanted to get out and skip and jump and enjoy being alive.” Erin said she is glad they chose to seek care at GIRMC on that day last summer. “I just thank them for trusting Grand Island Regional and seeking our help,” Erin said. “Heather did an incredible job of supporting her husband in a very scary situation. You could truly see the love and worry in her eyes. “We can’t guarantee a good outcome, but we can be that sense of hope and reassure patients and their families that we’re doing everything we can.” Keenan and Heather have a new lease on life. Keenan feels grateful every day to be alive. The couple’s love for their city, and their appreciation for their regional medical center, have been reinforced as they go forward. “I think we’re reassured that there’s good, quality care in central Nebraska.” Bryan Journeys

What’s New at Merrick Medical Center Located a short drive away from MMC, the Auxiliary Thrift Shop has raised money for the medical center for decades. The store is operated by a dedicated team of over 80 volunteers — accepting donations, cleaning and preparing items, and selling them to the public. Read more about the history of the store and its continued mission on our website:

Bryan Heart New Physician Profile

Construction on the new medical office building on the GIRMC campus is progressing steadily. Construction crews are preparing to add an enclosed walkway that will seamlessly connect the new building to the main hospital. The facade of the building has taken shape, blending beautifully with the existing campus architecture and continuing the fresh, modern look. Bryan Health will occupy the first floor of the new office building, and Nebraska Medicine will occupy the second and third floors.

ascular surgeon Alexis Davis, MD, started at Bryan Heart in October. She was born and raised in Texas, growing up in the Dallas area. When Dr. Davis was in middle school, her brother had a near-death experience. She said that was her first exposure to medicine, and it stayed in the back of her mind as she grew older and explored different career paths. She attended the University of Miami for her undergraduate education, initially as a psychology major. Over time, she found herself consistently interested in the scientific side of her studies. “I just kept getting drawn back to medicine,” Dr. Davis said. After graduating, she went to Tulane University for a one-year master’s program in anatomy. At the end of that year, she was certain she wanted to be a doctor. She received her medical degree from UT Health McGovern Medical School in Houston and completed her vascular surgery residency at University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston. Vascular surgery presents Dr. Davis with different problems that require different solutions for each situation. “You never know what you’re going to get before you go in,” she said. “You get to choose from a vast array of tools to treat the specific problem. I really love that about vascular.” Dr. Davis also enjoys treating patients in the long term, following them as they get healthier. She tries to be a personable presence for her patients, welcoming them with a smile and positive attitude. “I really want any patient who comes to see me to be struck by the kindness and caring nature of everybody involved,” she said. “Additionally, I want them to be educated about their disease. I want them to leave having learned something and gained tools to help themselves.” Dr. Davis had specific criteria when looking for a practice to join – one, she wanted to be in a private practice group and two, she wanted to keep that broad spectrum of care that drew her to vascular surgery. Dr. Davis had never been to Nebraska before she considered accepting the position here. As she learned more, talking to her potential future colleagues and visiting Bryan Medical Center, she discovered her wants and needs aligned with Bryan Heart.

This story is brought to you by Holmes Murphy

What’s New at Kearney Regional Medical Center Kearney is seeing exciting growth in healthcare services, with new additions focused on what matters most — making care easier to access, reducing wait times and bringing more services close to home. More Convenient Outpatient Care at the Oak Park Campus

Construction has started on the Oak Park Campus on the corner of 56th Street and 2nd Avenue. When finished, patients will be able to find several key services all in one place, including urgent care, on-site imaging and lab services, and expanded primary care. Increased Hospital Capacity and Specialized Care

To meet growing demand, the hospital has expanded its inpatient services. A new 25-bed inpatient unit opened in 2025. A dedicated cardiac and pulmonary rehab space will open this fall. Enhanced Surgical Services

Surgical care has also grown with new space and advanced capabilities. KRMC will add a seventh operating room and a new cystoscopy suite in June for specialized urology procedures.

What’s New at Grand Island Regional Medical Center Foundation

The Grand Island Regional Medical Center Foundation is established and working to fulfill its mission to support the health of its community and Central Nebraska. The new, eight-member board has identified opportunities to raise funds to support education, women’s and children’s services, and future growth opportunities. The Foundation participated in the Heartland United Way’s Go Big Give campaign in May and will hold its first fundraising golf tournament in July. To learn more about how the Foundation is supporting our community or to give in support of our mission, visit bryanhealth.com/givegi. New Medical Office Building

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Dr. Davis with her husband Andrew and their daughter Summer.

“I was kind of blown away by what was available to the surgeons here,” she said. “Even during my interview, the different level of genuine kindness and interest that people took in me and my family was noticeable.” Dr. Davis, her husband, Andrew, and their daughter, Summer, endured their first Nebraska winter as they settled in Lincoln. They have enjoyed meeting new friends and neighbors, and getting involved in church and community activities. Moving forward, she’s excited to keep planting roots at Bryan. “I’m looking forward to being a part of continuing growth of Bryan Heart and increasing patient access,” Dr. Davis said. “I’m excited to reach and help more people.”

Scan the QR to watch a video interview with Dr. Davis.

Bryan Journeys

Lives Transformed Through Bariatric Surgery

any people struggle with their weight — in the United States, the obesity rate in adults hovers around 40%. For some, simple lifestyle changes like a specific diet can work wonders. For others, these more traditional solutions don’t work. Bryan’s bariatric services teams work with patients to find an answer that’s right for them. For two patients, bariatric surgery at Bryan Health transformed their lives.

Reaching New Heights in Lincoln At 367 pounds, Jeremy Calcara never imagined he would skydive with his son, run two half marathons, enjoy pickleball with his wife or simply love life. He felt unwell most of the time and didn’t have the energy for the life he wanted. Then a visit to Bryan Urgent Care changed the trajectory of his life. “I had a cough and wasn’t feeling well so I went to urgent care,” Jeremy said. “The provider there really cared about my overall health and me as a person. She told me, ‘Let’s take care of why you’re here, but I think there’s more going on with your health’ and encouraged me to see my primary care provider.”

Jeremy, before and after surgery.

Jeremy and his son recently went skydiving together.

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Since Jeremy didn't have a primary care provider, a nurse at Bryan Urgent Care helped him find one. "She really went the extra mile to make sure I could get the follow-up care I needed," he said. He made an appointment with Emily Walker, DNP, at Family Practice of Waverly. “We talked about my health and did lab work. I found out I had high cholesterol, high blood pressure and undiagnosed type 2 diabetes,” he said. “It was time to make some changes to get these health problems under control and lose weight.” This story is brought to you by NRC Health

This was the start of his life-changing journey. Jeremy went on medication to lower his cholesterol and blood pressure. He went to the Bryan Diabetes Education Program to get his blood sugar under control and learn how to manage his diabetes. He took appetite suppressants to try to lose weight, but that wasn’t successful. Then he met with the Bryan Bariatrics team in Lincoln to learn about other weight loss options. “What I really liked about meeting with the Bryan Bariatrics team is that they talked to me about options like medications, meeting with a dietitian and surgery,” he said. “They focused on what would be best for me. There was no pressure; it was very collaborative and personalized to my needs.” Jeremy was still unsure about the surgery due to the potential expense, but the team worked with his insurance company to get it approved. He also met with a therapist at the Bryan Counseling Center to discuss the psychological components of the surgery. After meeting with the team and learning about all the options, the path forward was Jeremy’s decision. Jeremy chose to have gastric bypass surgery, during which a small pouch is attached to the intestine to bypass the stomach, on April 30, 2024. “It’s been revolutionary to my life,” he said. “My only regret is that I didn’t do it sooner. It’s still a lot of hard work. Surgery is a boost, but you still have to do the work. You have to get used to a new way of eating. You have to remain dedicated, but it is 100% worth it.” Jeremy said that the team was positive and encouraging as they provided information and education, answered his questions and focused on incremental steps. He’s had regular follow-up visits with the bariatrics team to monitor his health and progress, and connects with others who’ve had weight loss surgery through the Bryan Bariatrics Facebook group. Jeremy now has his cholesterol and blood pressure under control and takes about half the medication he took for these conditions before surgery. He no longer has type 2 diabetes and his A1c is “awesome.” He’s lost about 170 pounds. Fitness has become a big part of his life, especially running and biking. In 2025 he logged about 700 miles on his bike and 400 miles running, including two half marathons. "Jeremy has done great," said his surgeon, Anthony Tabatabai, DO. "It's awesome to come full circle and watch my patient pass me in a half marathon." A big reason Jeremy wanted to lose weight was to go skydiving with his son when he graduated from high school. And in July, Jeremy and his son jumped out of a plane together.

"That’s the best part," he said. “I feel great and can get out and move. I love that I can play with my kids. I’m a productive member of my household. I’m a better husband and father. It’s been transformational. “When my 7-year-old said, ‘I’ll race you to the car’, I ran as fast as I could. It was pure joy!”

Losing Weight and Feeling Grand in Grand Island A driving factor for Jaymie Gammon to ultimately pursue bariatric surgery was her health. She was on medication for high blood pressure. She had back troubles and suffered from plantar fasciitis in her feet, causing her to wear custom shoes. The pain she was in made it difficult to keep up with her three kids. “They want me to be active with them, like going to the trampoline park and jumping with them or even just getting on the floor to play with their toys,” Jaymie said. “It was excruciating. I knew I wanted to do this for myself, but I also wanted to do it to be a better mom.” Before her surgery, she weighed around 310 pounds. She’s a hairdresser in Grand Island and works for a local funeral home as she goes to college for mortuary sciences. Jaymie has struggled with weight loss her whole life. She had tried many diets and other treatments, but nothing had ever stuck. She learned more about bariatric surgery from a friend who had it.

Today, Jaymie weighs around 160 pounds. Bryan Journeys

“I knew I wanted to do this for myself, but I also wanted to do it to be a better mom. It’s the best decision I’ve ever made in my life.” Jaymie loves to be active in Grand Island after her surgery.

“I figured it was never going to be in my financial means to have it done, but then I found out that insurance would cover it,” she said. She started the process by talking to her primary care provider, who referred her to Christopher Seip, MD, a general surgeon on Grand Island Regional Medical Center’s bariatric services team. From there, she went through the pre-operation process, which includes a psychiatric evaluation and a meeting with a dietitian. Jaymie had sleeve gastrectomy surgery, during which a portion of the stomach is removed, on August 31, 2023. The stomach shrinks from around a two-liter bottle-sized organ into one roughly the size of a banana. After her surgery, she recovered in the hospital for two nights. “I had a really good experience,” she said. “All the staff were wonderful; everyone took really good care of me.” She returned to Dr. Seip for consistent follow-up appointments to track her continued weight-loss progress. She said he and the whole bariatrics team did a great job of “hyping her up,” letting her know that she was advancing well. “From the initial consultation, I could tell Jaymie was a very motivated patient,” Dr. Seip said. “For patients undergoing this type of surgery, they really have to have commitment to the process to be as successful as we want them to be.” She was soon referred to GIRMC’s bariatric support group, which is a small but mighty community that meets once a month. Every session has educational programming about wellness topics related to weight loss and maintenance. Jaymie has become a leader within the support group and has enjoyed getting to know people and answering their questions about the surgery. “It’s nice to have support from and ask questions of people who have also been through this or who are about to go through this,” she said. “It also provides important accountability for my health and continuing the lifestyle changes I’ve made.”

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Like most patients, Jaymie had hanging belly skin after her gastrectomy. By her oneyear appointment post-surgery, Dr. Seip referred her to his partner Brant Luebbe, MD, for a panniculectomy that removes the loose skin and fatty tissue. The procedure was, to her surprise, also covered by her insurance. “It’s so crazy not having a belly sitting in your lap,” she said. “I can wear pants that fit top to bottom without having to compensate for the hanging skin. It’s so nice, and it’s something that I didn’t even expect when I started this whole process. It’s much more in reach than people realize.” Now at about 160 pounds, Jaymie no longer takes blood pressure medication and doesn’t have pain in her back or feet. She loves to be active with her kids and exercise outside on her bike or roller blades. She’s able to enjoy life in ways she couldn’t before. “It’s the best decision I’ve ever made in my life.”

Learn more about Bryan Bariatric Services Lincoln

BryanHealth.org/Bariatrics 402-481-5490 Grand Island

BryanHealth.org/BariatricsGIRMC 308-675-4299

A Road Trip to Nebraska Brings Healing for New Jersey Cancer Patient

oad trips are not intimidating for Ellen Forstrom. She loves to travel, often driving around the country in her camper to see new places. Her recent road trip to Nebraska was a little out of the ordinary, however. She drove here to receive treatment at the April Sampson Cancer Center.

A Rare Diagnosis Ellen lives in northern New Jersey, near New York City. A retired nurse, she was diagnosed with a granulosa cell tumor (GCT) in 2007. A rare form of ovarian cancer, GCTs form in and around the ovaries. The cancer can prove difficult to treat, as has been the case for Ellen. During the 2010s, she had surgery roughly every two years to remove tumors. Eventually, Ellen’s surgeon told her that surgery in that area wasn’t safe anymore. “I had to find a different way of doing it,” Ellen said. Ellen has been a member of many cancer support groups over the years, one of which is called “GCT Sisters.” Around five years ago, one of her support group members enlisted hospice care. As a last resort, the woman decided to try one more treatment: high-precision stereotactic radiosurgery.

“Where I live, you drive through all kinds of traffic to get where you need to go. In Nebraska, we drove down to the cancer center and it was just such a lovely ride out there.” This story is brought to you by Cerris Systems

Ellen inside her camper at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park during her visit to Nebraska for treatment.

Ellen said this woman is now doing better than she ever has with her cancer. It worked so well that several other women in the group, including Ellen, have sought it out. However, it proved difficult for them to find a doctor who would treat them. Limited data exists for radiation therapy for these types of tumors, so radiation oncologists would tell Ellen they weren’t willing to take on the perceived risks. “I had talked to a couple of doctors in our area, and they all told me they couldn’t do it. Well, I’ll just go to Nebraska,” she said. “I don’t mind traveling; I actually like to travel.”

Hitting the Road Her support group keeps a running list of doctors around the country who may be able to treat them. A Midwest-based group member found Mark Stavas, MD, a radiation oncologist with Cancer Partners of Nebraska. She spoke on the phone with Dr. Stavas several times, describing her situation. He felt that her case was treatable and agreed to see her. Bryan Journeys

Ellen’s camper

April Sampson Cancer Center

Dr. Stavas had previously treated several women with GCTs using an advanced technique in which he selectively applies radiation to the inner two-thirds of the tumor. This spares the tumor’s outer rim, which is often adjacent to critical organs, and reduces the risk for dangerous side effects. Ellen packed up her camper and hit the road in September. Her sister and brother-in-law joined her on the trip. It took them a few days to reach Nebraska, where they set up camp at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park.

Two Weeks in Nebraska On the Monday after they arrived, Ellen went to the April Sampson Cancer Center for an evaluation. After examining her results, Dr. Stavas treated her every day the following week. Ellen had three tumors that required treatment. Over that week, she traveled to the cancer center for five 20-minute treatment sessions. While receiving treatment,

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Ellen was struck by the friendliness and efficiency of everyone at the cancer center. “Everybody was so wonderful and easy to deal with,” she said, “and my appointments ran on time. It wasn’t like I would get stuck there waiting for hours. They were really good about being efficient, but I never felt rushed.” Ellen spent time in the Garden of Hope and Healing behind the center, walking the pathways before and after treatment. She said the beauty and quiet of the garden provided her with some peace. During their stay, Ellen and her travel partners also took in a few sights around Nebraska, including the Henry Doorly Zoo and the International Quilt Museum.

Hope for the Future After her week of treatment, Ellen started the long drive back home. She followed up with Dr. Stavas via phone; he recommended she get a CT scan after three months. Her recent scan showed that the tumors were completely gone.

Dr. Stavas has spoken with physicians across the country about this treatment, sharing his experience and technique so that more women can receive care closer to home. “Progress in medicine often depends on trailblazers like Ellen — patients willing to explore options far from home and step into uncertainty to advance both outcomes and understanding of rare diseases,” Dr. Stavas said. “I am deeply grateful for Ellen and profoundly humbled by the trust she placed in me and in the entire team. She has an inner calm to her spirit, and I know she enjoyed the healing energy of the April Sampson Cancer Center.” Within her support group, members have found that this kind of treatment gave them longer periods of time between recurrence compared to surgery or chemotherapy. Ellen will continue to monitor her symptoms and test frequently for recurrence. Ellen made a Beyond Expectations gift in Dr. Stavas’ name to the Bryan Foundation to support the oncology caring fund for patients traveling to the center. Traveling

and extended stays for patients like Ellen can be a financial burden. Oncology nurse navigators and social workers can use these funds to help address those challenges during a patient’s treatment. “I just would like to help anybody else who needs to travel to spend some time at the center and afford treatment,” she said. “Coming from a distance is not always so easy for some people, and to be able to help them out with some of their expenses is just a pleasure.” Ellen has camped all her life, so this trip was not a new experience for her outside of the reason for it. She had driven through Nebraska before but had not spent extensive time here. Now, a state that didn’t hold much meaning for her will forever be important. “Where I live, you drive through all kinds of traffic to get where you need to go,” she said. “In Nebraska, we drove down to the cancer center, and it was just such a lovely ride out there. It’s such a pretty campus right by the cornfields. “It all went so smoothly and, all things considered, was really a very pleasant experience.” Bryan Journeys

Welcome these physicians to the Bryan medical community Over 1600 providers across the state have privileges at a Bryan facility. Join us in celebrating new additions to the system!

Alexis Davis, MD, Bryan Heart Vascular Surgery Specialty: Vascular Surgery Medical Education: UTHealth McGovern Medical School, Houston Residency: University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston

Kelli Mans, MD, Lincoln Pediatric Hospitalists Specialty: Pediatrics Medical Education: Creighton University Residency: University of Nebraska College of Medicine Fellowship: University of Nebraska College of Medicine

Kanoelehua Baird, DMD, Lincoln Pediatric Dentistry Specialty: Pediatric Dentistry Medical Education: A.T. Still University of Health Sciences, Mesa, AZ Residency: New York University-Langone Hospitals

Maureen D’Angelo, MD, Nebraska Emergency Medicine Specialty: Emergency Medicine Medical Education: University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City Residency: University of Illinois, Chicago

Redgy Fuller, DO, Innovative Pain and Spine Specialists Specialties: Anesthesiology; Pain Management Medical Education: A.T. Still University, Mesa, AZ Residency: University of Nebraska Medical Center Fellowship: University of Nebraska Medical Center

Chelsey McConnell, MD, Lincoln Pediatric Hospitalists Specialty: Pediatrics Medical Education: University of Nebraska College of Medicine Residency: University of Nebraska College of Medicine Fellowship: University of Nebraska College of Medicine

Matthew Baier, MD, Nebraska Emergency Medicine Specialty: Emergency Medicine Medical Education: University of Nebraska Medical Center Residency: University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine

Melissa Davison, MD, CHI Health Clinic Kearney Specialty: Family Medicine Medical Education: University of Nebraska Medical Center Residency: Clarkson Family Medicine, Omaha

Jason “Jake” Long, MD, Nebraska Orthopaedic Center Specialty: Orthopedics Medical Education: University of Nebraska Medical Center Residency: Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC Fellowship: The Steadman Clinic, Vail, CO

Ian Monroe, MD, Inpatient Physician Associates Specialties: Internal Medicine; Hospital Medicine Medical Education: University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences, OH Residencies: CHI Health Creighton University Medical Center

This story is brought to you by Inpatient Physician Associates

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Bryan Journeys

Abbie Eggleston, CRNA, Associated Anesthesiologists Chelsea Enninga, APRN-NP, Bryan Supportive & Palliative Medicine, part of the Bryan Physician Network Jackalyn Fink, APRN-NP, General Surgery Associates

Tam Nguyen, MD, Associated Anesthesiologists Specialty: Anesthesiology Medical Education: Zucker School of Medicine, Hempstead, NY Residency: The Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore

Charles Voigt, MD, Lincoln Surgical Group Specialty: General Surgery Medical Education: University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences, OH Residency: Creighton University Fellowships: University of Iowa, Iowa City

Christan Ford, CRNA, Associated Anesthesiologists Jena Haverkamp, APRN-NP, General Surgery Associates

Jared Noorlander, CRNA, Grand Island Regional Medical Center Anesthesiology

Dawn Heapy, APRN-NP, Kearney Regional Medical Center

Sydney Petersen, PA-C, Cancer Partners of Nebraska, April Sampson Cancer Center

Jami Hermsmeier, APRN-NP, Bryan Trauma and Acute Care Surgery, part of the Bryan Physician Network

Ryan Podany, APRN-NP, Surgery Group of Grand Island

Angela Johnsen, APRN-NP, Bryan Supportive & Palliative Medicine, part of the Bryan Physician Network

David Potratz, PA-C, Bryan Orthopedic Trauma, part of the Bryan Physician Network

Sarah Johnson, APRN-NP, Grand Island Regional Medical Center Emergency Department

Kara Ramold, APRN-NP, Grand Island Ear Nose and Throat

Catherine Johnston, CRNA, Crete Area Medical Center

Mikayla Rice, PA-C, Bryan Psychiatry, part of the Bryan Physician Network

Natasha Kelley-Wise, APRN-NP, Platte Valley Neurology Kurtt Kuhl, CRNA, Grand Island Regional Medical Center Anesthesiology

Swetha Yadav, MD, Cancer Partners of Nebraska, Kearney Cancer Center Specialties: Hematology; Oncology Medical Education: Bangalore Medical College, India Residency: University of Alabama Hospital Fellowship: University of Alabama Hospital

Welcome these Advanced Practice Providers These advanced practice providers are now working within the Bryan Health system: Mickenna Barankevich, APRN-NP, New Life Clinic

Care Surgery, part of the Bryan Physician Network

Megan Beadle, PA-C, Consultants in Infectious Disease

Hannah Burge, PA-C, General Surgery Associates

Rhianna Becker, PA-C, Merrick Medical Center Christopher Bell, APRN-NP, Bryan Heart

Matthew Carver, APRN-NP, Inpatient Physician Associates

Lakin Bohac, APRN-NP, Bryan Heart

Brooke Chambers, PA-C, Nebraska Orthopaedic Center

Marcelle Botha, APRN-NP, Platte Valley Medical Clinic

Amanda Comstock, APRN-NP, Bryan Heart

Lakin Braman, APRN-NP, Bryan Trauma and Acute

Jaci Dietz, PA-C, Kearney Regional Medical Center

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Michelle Neelly, PA-C, New Life Clinic Kristi Neiderklein, APRN-NP, Family Medicine of Lincoln, part of the Bryan Physician Network

Dakota Judds, PA-C, Southeast Lincoln Family Medicine, part of the Bryan Physician Network

Evan Symons, DO, Lincoln Pediatric Hospitalists Specialty: Pediatric Hospitalist Medical Education: A.T. Still University - Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine, MO Residency: University of Nebraska Medical Center Fellowship: University of Nebraska Medical Center

Nathaniel Mishou, APRN-NP, Kearney Regional Medical Center

Simran Shah, PA-C, Bryan Breast Surgical Specialists, part of the Bryan Physician Network Jayden Slaba, PA-C, Bryan Orthopedic Trauma, part of the Bryan Physician Network

Jackson Lamb, PA-C, Gastroenterology Specialties

Katie Stanczyk, APRN-NP, Inpatient Physician Associates

Jason Martinez, CRNA, Grand Island Regional Medical Center Anesthesiology

Melinda VanKooten, APRN-NP, CHI Health Clinic Nephrology–Good Samaritan

Amy Martinez, PA-C, Fred and Pamela Buffet Cancer Center of Kearney

Maria Van Dyke, PA-C, Nebraska Orthopaedic Center

Adam Melius, PA-C, Nebraska Orthopaedic Center

Corrine Waddell, APRN-NP, Bryan Orthopedic Trauma, part of the Bryan Physician Network

Shelby Miller, APRN-NP, Cancer Partners of Nebraska, Kearney Cancer Center

Meghan Walker, APRN-NP, Bryan Psychiatry, part of the Bryan Physician Network

In Loving Memory Katherine “Kate” Elise Gogela Katherine Gogela, MD, passed away suddenly on Nov. 7, 2025. Dr. Gogela was the cherished wife of Steven Gogela, MD, and mother to Henry, Maxwell, Julia and Jacob. Dr. Gogela graduated from Lincoln East High School and attended Creighton University. She later received her medical degree from University of Nebraska Medical Center. She followed in the footsteps of her father, Michael Germer, MD, a pediatrician in Lincoln for over 40 years. She worked at Lincoln Pediatric Group starting in 2017. She more recently dedicated her career to newborn care and breastfeeding medicine. A gifted physician, lifelong learner and true friend, Dr. Gogela left an imprint that will never fade. Bryan Journeys

Michael Johnston Discusses His Start as BMC President and CEO

new, friendly face is walking the halls of Bryan Medical Center, helping lead the center into a bright future. Michael Johnston was born in the Chicago area and grew up in Northwest Indiana. He went to Purdue University and graduated with a bachelor's degree in organizational leadership. He also has master’s and doctoral degrees in leadership. He started his career in manufacturing, working his way up to managing plants in the United States and England. He and his wife, Sarah — who he met in England — have three children: Kirsten, Thomas and Evie. After 15 years in manufacturing, Johnston was looking for something new. That’s when he first crossed paths with the healthcare industry. Since the early 2000s, Johnston has worked for a few health systems, including Allina Health, Advocate Health and McLaren Health Care. He has experience with all sizes of hospitals, from small critical access hospitals to large medical centers. He and his wife love to travel — going overseas and visiting their kids all over the country. Lincoln provides a centralized location for their trips. “When my wife and I were empty nesters, we knew we had an opportunity to do what we wanted,” Johnston said. “We love the Midwest, so we wanted to be here.” He and Sarah have enjoyed the local arts scene in their brief time here, too. Johnston is active with his alma mater, Purdue, but said he will now root for Nebraska when possible. “We’re not rivals, so it’s okay,” he said. Johnston knew Russ Gronewold, Bryan Health president and chief executive officer, from an American Hospital Association board. “I admired how he came across and the things that were going on at Bryan,” he said. “Then this role came open and it intrigued me. “It all seemed to fall into place — the Midwest location, the system, the leadership and then the success of Bryan. It just was really energizing seeing what has gone on here.” His goals during his first months on the job were understanding Bryan’s culture, engaging in the community and pursuing ways to address affordability. Johnston said he enjoys many things about working in health care, but two stand out. One, he enjoys the people-driven nature of the industry and the opportunities he has in his role to develop people. Two, the American healthcare system poses many challenges for health systems and their patients. There’s a lot of work to be done to maintain and sustain Bryan Medical Center.

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“I feel like I can make a big difference, not only for an organization or a department or employee, but also from a patient standpoint,” he said. “How can we make that whole process better?” One area of great interest for Johnston is artificial intelligence. He is dedicated to educating himself about the topic as he works on an additional master’s degree, this one in artificial intelligence management policy through Purdue University. Johnston said it’s important for him, as a leader, to understand the emerging technology and help guide the organization on best practices moving forward. “I’m excited about how our organization — especially our providers — continues to be at the forefront of integrating technology and AI with that human-centered approach,” he said. “We can be the innovators, leading the market — if not the nation — in taking this technology that’s rapidly changing health care and making it seamless and additive to the human experience.” Johnston has enjoyed getting to know people around the medical center during his first few months at Bryan. He looks forward to meeting new faces in and around the organization. “Everybody has been kind, helpful and accommodating,” he said. “People try to integrate us into the fabric of Lincoln and Nebraska. It’s been a breath of fresh air. “There’s something special here.”

News and Notes

Executive Chef Khan Inducted as Honorary Fellow Nazim Khan, executive chef at Bryan Medical Center, was selected for induction as an Honorary Fellow of the American Academy of Chefs. This honor was bestowed upon Khan because of his contributions to the culinary profession through his role at Bryan. Khan conducts many community events such as cooking classes and healthy eating presentations. Since 2020, he has been an active member of the Mayor’s Community Committee on Local Food. He will be inducted at the American Culinary Federation National Convention & Show from June 28 to July 2.

CAMC Named Top 100 Critical Access Hospital

For the third consecutive year, Crete Area Medical Center received this designation from The Chartis Center for Rural Health. The Top 100 awards program celebrates outstanding performance annually among the nation’s rural This story is brought to you by Riverside Technologies

hospitals based on the results of the Chartis Rural Hospital Performance INDEX®. For over 75 years, CAMC (originally known as Crete City Hospital) has provided exemplary hospital care to the Crete area. Bryan Journeys

Bryan Health 100th Anniversary Wrap-Up Our 100th anniversary celebration is at its end. Over the last 18 months, we have honored Bryan’s past, present and future through engaging activities and community-focused events. Let’s look back on a wonderful celebration:

100 Acts of Kindness

Historical Trivia

In previous issues of Journeys, we mentioned the 100 Acts project. We’re proud to say that at its conclusion, our employees completed over 150 distinct acts around their respective communities.

About how many unique patients does Bryan Health care for as a system each year? What year did BryanLGH become Bryan Health? For more than 90 consecutive weeks, we quizzed our employees with trivia about Bryan’s history, educating the new generations about our past, present and future.

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Bryan College of Health Sciences Care Like Crazy Day

Lincoln Marathon

In April, BCHS celebrated its 100th anniversary with a day of volunteerism. Students, faculty and staff in Lincoln and Hastings joined forces to complete service activities such as cleaning trash, stocking food shelves and painting rooms at an assisted living center.

Since the race started in 1978, Bryan has staffed a volunteer station south of Bryan West Campus for the Lincoln Marathon. Almost 50 volunteers cheered on runners and handed them water cups during the morning race.

Thank you for your support during our 100th Anniversary celebration! Bryan Health would not exist without our employees, medical staffs, volunteers, donors and, most important, the families who trust us with their care. We are grateful for you. Forward. Together. Bryan Journeys

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