Touching Lives - Summer 2024

Stepping Into a New State

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After surgeries on her foot, shoulder, hip, and hand, Lona Oltmann is on the road to recovery - and on her way back to the State Fair.

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We’re stepping into an exciting new chapter at GRH.

Through renovations on our Birth Center, as well as our kitchen and dining spaces, we’re enhancing the physical environment in which we serve our community. Renovations have been underway, and we’re looking forward to concluding our first phase of construction on our kitchen and dining spaces, as well as nearing the conclusion of our Birth Center project this fall. Learn more about each of these projects and see renderings of our future spaces on pages two and three.

This issue of Touching Lives also shares information about our very own in-house orthopedic program, and our dedicated orthopedic providers, Matthew Copple, DO, and Terese Haasken, MPAS, PA-C. Their expertise and passion for orthopedic care ensures that our community receives the specialized care they deserve close to home. Meet them on pages eight and nine.

We’re also stepping into a new chapter with Glencoe Regional Health Foundation, including new opportunities to get involved in the Foundation’s work to improve the health of our community. Learn more about their impact and how you can be a part of it on page 16.

These aren’t the only steps we’re looking forward to – our annual Glencoe Days Fun Run and Walk is just around the corner on Saturday, June 22 – read more on page seven. I encourage each of you to join us at this event that promotes physical activity and fosters a sense of unity in our community.

With gratitude,

Scott Kuehn, GRH Board of Directors Chairperson

Ben Davis, FACHE, President & CEO

MEET OUR BOARD!

Our GRH Board of Directors have been strong partners and advocates for our campus renovations in our Birth Center, kitchen, and dining spaces.

Care & Services

MEDICAL SERVICES

Acute Care

Allergy Medicine

Cardiac

Birth Center

Rehabilitation Cardiology

Diabetic Care & Education

Ear, Nose, & Throat

Emergency Department

Family Medicine

Hematology Hospitalists

Infusion Services

Internal Medicine Laboratory

Medical Imaging

Mental Health

Midwifery

Nephrology

Neurology OB/GYN

Occupational Therapy Oncology

Orthopedics

Pain Management

Pediatrics

Physical Therapy

Podiatry

Preventive Health

Respiratory Therapy

Skin Clinic

Sleep Medicine

Speech-Language Pathology

Surgery

Transitional Care

Urgent Care

Urology

Wound and Ostomy Care

SKILLED NURSING CARE

GlenFields Living with Care

SENIOR LIVING

Orchard Estates

Sean Tritabaugh Director Plasti-Fab Ltd.

Bryan Petersen MD, Director GRH Provider

Kristen Budahn MD, FAAFP, Director GRH Provider

Bryan Fritsch DO, Director GRH Provider

Heather Peirce Board Secretary Lincoln Elementary School

Mary Stoltenburg Vice Chairperson Security Bank & Trust Co.

Scott Kuehn GRH Board Chairperson RPMG LLC

Ben Davis FACHE GRH President & CEO

JOIN A CULTURE THAT CARES

JOIN A CULTURE THAT CARES

Are you seeking a rewarding career where the work you do makes a difference? We want to meet you! Check out our current job openings: grhsonline.org/careers

Stay Connected

Get to know GRH!

Follow us on social media and learn more about our organization. grhsonline.org/connect

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BUILDING A BRIGHTER FUTURE

Renovations on our Birth Center, kitchen, and dining spaces are underway.

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FIND HEALTH AND COMFORT IN YOUR SKIN

A team of our providers are excited to offer services in our new Skin Clinicfrom acne to eczema, to skin cancer screenings and psoriasis.

¡Estamos orgullosos de ofrecer

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FUN RUN AND WALK

Your feedback is important to us. Tell us about your recent experiences at GRH by filling out our feedback form at grhsonline.org/tell-us-how-were-doing

Join us on Saturday, June 22 for another year of celebrating health and wellness in our community!

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NEW STRIDES IN CARE

Our orthopedics program expands access to high-quality orthopedic care in our community.

MANAGING EDITORS

Ana Alexander

Lynn Beranek

Stephanie Beste

Liz Cheney

Denise Lemke

Michaela Neyers

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Tocando Vidas en su versión electrónica en español! 10 7

A NEW STATE OF HEALTH

Lona shares her journey through four surgeries in five months, finding healing with our orthopedics department.

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CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR SANKEN-HATZ SCHOLARS

Scholarships from GRH Foundation help our next generation of healthcare employees.

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YOUR YEAR TO VOLUNTEER

New opportunities with our volunteer program allow you to give back in meaningful ways.

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A NEW CHAPTER FOR OUR FOUNDATION

Thanks to you, there is more good to come in our community. Learn about our Foundation and its goals to grow our impact.

PUBLISHER

Glencoe Regional Health 1805 Hennepin Avenue North Glencoe, MN 55336

BUILDING

a Brighter Future

“We know that by continuing to invest in our facilities, we’re investing in the health of our community.”

BEN DAVIS, FACHE President & CEO

Construction continues on our kitchen, dining, and Birth Center spaces.

Expecting new spaces to deliver even safer care.

With renovations in full swing, we’re excitedly watching the progress on our Birth Center remodel, and will soon move into the second phase of our kitchen and dining renovations. These projects signify more than just physical changes – they embody our commitment to advancing care, enriching experiences, and serving our community with pride for many years to come.

“We know that by continuing to invest in our facilities, we’re investing in the health of our community,” said President & CEO Ben Davis, FACHE. “Glencoe Regional Health has a long history of commitment to high-quality care, which is reflected in our values. The renovation projects in our Birth Center and cafeteria reflect our ongoing dedication to continuous improvement, and align with our mission of improving every life by offering high-quality, safe, and accessible healthcare.”

Renovations on our Birth Center are well on their way! Our new Birth Center will offer a more modern, cozy space for the beautiful journey of bringing new life into the world.

In addition to a more modern atmosphere, we’re incorporating new safety features into the updated Birth Center.

The new Birth Center will include a secure, locked entrance, and the nursery will be relocated between the nurses’ station and patient rooms so that all visitors must check-in with nursing staff before visiting mom and baby.

Our renovated Birth Center will open this fall. Stay tuned for upcoming details about our open house!

Our providers kicked off construction during our wall-breaking ceremony.

Our Birth Center nursing staff joined in the wall-breaking fun!

“At GRH, safety is one of our most important core values,” said Chief Medical Officer Kristine Knudten, MD. “We’re excited to improve our new space with additional safety features. We’re committed to providing our community with exceptional care, and our new, state-of-the-art spaces will mirror our dedication to our community’s growing families.”

With the same great care and enhanced, serene spaces, we’re building a better tomorrow for our patients’ most cherished moments. In our new Birth Center, modernity meets tranquility in the same space you’ll meet your new little one.

We anticipate renovations to conclude this fall, and look forward to inviting the community in to tour our new spaces. Stay tuned for more details to come on our Birth Center open house.

Cooking up something special.

We’re also undergoing renovations on our kitchen, cafeteria, and dining spaces.

“Our current kitchen and cafeteria require updates so that we can keep up with increased operations, as we currently produce 600 meals each day on average. The renovated spaces will improve our capacity to serve the organization and our community with modernized, enhanced features,” said Vice President Senior Services Julie Schmidt, LNHA, who oversees nutrition services. “Our planned construction will create a better flow for staff, patients, residents, and our community.”

Work on these spaces will be completed in three phases, and we anticipate the work on the kitchen and dining areas will fully conclude in early 2025. We’re working to complete Phase I of construction, in which we'll open our brand-new employee lounge. Phase II of construction will begin shortly. We anticipate moving into our third and final phase of construction in the fall.

“We’re excited about this investment in our campus and future kitchen and dining services,” said Julie. “We can’t wait to unveil our newly renovated spaces in early 2025. This project represents a significant milestone for us, and we look forward to sharing these spaces with the community we serve once construction is complete.”

Our future cafeteria and dining spaces will have increased capacity to serve our organization and community.

The locked entrance of our future Birth Center will provide enhanced security for our new little ones.

Find health and comfort in your skin.

Our providers now offer new services through our Skin Clinic.

While family medicine provider Kristen Budahn, MD, FAAFP, was in her residency, she took a special interest in skin care, undergoing extra training with a dermatologist.

“I enjoy helping people achieve clear skin, and I’m passionate about making skin cancer screening and treatment as accessible and timely as possible,” said Dr. Budahn.

During her eight-year tenure at GRH, Dr. Budahn has regularly seen patients for skin concerns. After witnessing an increased need for skin care services in our community, she helped form our dedicated Skin Clinic.

“Having these kinds of skin care services in our community is huge,” said Dr. Budahn. “People are less likely to let concerns go if they have easy, convenient access to be seen for their concerns.”

The creation of our Skin Clinic has opened up availability to be seen by Dr. Budahn, as well as Kari Knodel Vettel, MPAS, PA-C, and Michelle Quale, CNM, FNP-BC, during dedicated hours set just for patients with skin concerns.

Having more immediate access to skin care can make all the difference for some patients. With long drives and wait times for dermatology appointments elsewhere, the expansion of our Skin Clinic services brings care to our community, faster.

“With a lot of skin cancers, it’s about early treatment – with melanoma, early treatment can save lives,” said Michelle. “The quicker we can catch a concern, the smaller the affected the area is, and the less invasive the procedure or solution will be.”

Everything Under the Sun

Skin cancer is easiest to treat when detected early. Our Skin Clinic plays an important role in safeguarding patient health, not only by offering skin cancer screenings, but in offering quick access to treatment.

Our Skin Clinic providers often collaborate with general surgeon Elizabeth Colsen, MD, FACS, who sees patients for surgical procedures in our operating room to remove skin cancers. When scheduling allows, Dr. Budahn will call in Dr. Colsen to speak with a patient being biopsied for skin cancer. Dr. Colsen and the patient have time to talk through the procedure and answer any questions, and when the pathology comes back to confirm the presence of skin cancer, the patient is able to schedule the surgical procedure without the need for any additional pre-op appointments with Dr. Colsen. Patients who require further cancer treatment are able to see Steven Rousey, MD, FACP, on our Glencoe campus, where chemotherapy treatment is also available.

“I want to make skin cancer treatment as accessible and timely as possible. I usually know if something is going to be skin cancer or not – it’s not very often that I’m surprised,” said Dr. Budahn. “If I see something that looks like a basal cell but needs a bigger incision to be removed and should be done in the operating room, it’s so convenient for our patients to have our surgeons right here in Glencoe.”

A skin exam can identify early signs of skin cancer and other skin conditions, and by identifying any irregularities early on, you can receive prompt treatment and better outcomes. Regular skin exams are critical if you or your family has a history of skin cancer, if you have a large number of moles, a history of severe sunburns, or if you spend a lot of time in the sun.

Dr. Budahn uses a dermatoscope to check Paula’s skin, which allows her to see through the top layers of skin and determine what needs to be biopsied.

A Clear Solution

For patients grappling with conditions such as acne, our Skin Clinic offers a solution. Our comprehensive approach to acne treatment, including the prescription of Accutane for some patients, empowers individuals to reclaim their confidence and achieve clear, radiant skin.

“With acne, a big misconception is that people don’t know how treatable it really is,” said Kari Knodel Vettel, MPAS, PA-C. “You shouldn’t have to live with acne –we can help.”

Patients who receive Accutane treatment typically see results within the second or third month of treatment. Accutane is considered a curative treatment, and patients typically end treatment after five to six months.

“By the end of treatment, their skin is clear, and normally their acne doesn’t come back,” said Kari.

Witnessing transformation in not only skin health, but confidence and well-being is one of Dr. Budahn’s favorite parts of the Skin Clinic.

“Some patients are quite emotional after their positive results – some people have lived the majority of their lives with acne, and seeing their skin clear for this first time is a powerful emotion,” said Dr. Budahn. “I love seeing my patients’ confidence grow as they go through treatment. Especially with teenagers – they really come out of their shell, and you get to see a completely different side of them as they gain more and more confidence.”

SKIN CONDITIONS WE TREAT

• Acne

• Athlete’s foot

• Calluses and corns

• Cherry angiomas

• Cysts

• Dandruff

• Dermatitis

• Eczema

• Excessive sweating

• Hair loss/alopecia

• Moles

• Nail diseases

• Psoriasis

• Rashes

• Rosacea

• Skin cancer screening and removal

• Strawberry marks

• Thickened scars/keloids

• Warts

SKIN CARE AT EVERY AGE AND STAGE

Khloe’s plagiocephaly helmet caused a severe reaction to her skin, but after receiving care in our Skin Clinic, her concerns are now under control.

KHLOE Seen for chronic eczema.

Khloe has struggled with chronic eczema from as early as a few months old, and would scratch her skin in places until it broke and created open sores. At around five months old, she was placed in a plagiocephaly helmet and had a severe reaction to the foam lining along her cheeks.

Thanks to Dr. Budahn, we were able to get her skin under control to complete the plagiocephaly helmet therapy. With day-to-day recommendations and prescription topical ointments, Khloe’s skin has improved significantly. Any flare-ups are much more manageable with Dr. Budahn’s help. The impact this has had on Khloe’s health has been indescribable.”

- Hailey, Khloe’s mom

Story continues on the following page.

Meet our team of skin

care providers

To schedule an appointment with a skin care provider, call us at 320-864-7816 or learn more at grhsonline.org/skin-care

SKIN CARE AT EVERY AGE AND STAGE

Hear from our patients!

KACI Seen for acne treatment.

I struggled with acne all throughout high school, and it took a toll on my mental health. I didn’t feel confident in my own skin. After booking my first skin care appointment, I knew my skin was in good hands. Now, I can go out without makeup and wear tank tops without my scars showing or worrying about people judging me and feeling insecure.

I couldn’t have asked for better staff to take care of me – they answered my questions and concerns throughout my treatment, were professional, and always welcomed me with a smile. I had such a great experience with the staff at GRH!”

LYNN Seen for melanoma.

After noticing a mole on my upper chest that was easily picked at and would sometimes bleed, I saw my primary care provider, Amanda Leino, MD, who referred me to have the mole and additional lymph nodes removed. After scheduling an appointment with Dr. Budahn, she did a full-body skin check and found several areas of concern. She communicated her findings clearly and thoroughly explained my options for treatment.

Having GRH close to home means a lot to me, so I don’t have a distance to drive for appointments. After successfully removing the concerning spots, I’m now very conscious of staying out of the sun and wearing long sleeves, sunscreen, and a hat. Life can continue as normal, with just a bit more care. Dr. Budahn and her nurses have been wonderful throughout this process!”

PAULA Seen for melanoma.

After I noticed a mole on the side of my neck that had been getting bigger and my son suggested I talk to my primary care provider about my concerns, I saw Mackenzie Lobitz, MD, to share my concerns with her. Dr. Lobitz referred me to the Skin Clinic, where the mole was removed and sent to be examined. When it came back as melanoma, I made an appointment with Dr. Colsen to remove the concerning areas. Even though I was initially anxious about the diagnosis, I felt better knowing I had care close to home. The staff were caring, informative, and reassuring throughout the entire process, which made a big difference to me. They cared about me as a person. When I came in for my surgery, I was relaxed. I wasn’t worried – because they made me feel so comfortable and reassured. They were really there for me. It made me feel good to know that I could make all of my appointments from start to finish here, without needing to drive into the cities.”

GLENCOE DAYS 2024

Join us this year at the Glencoe Days Fun Run and Walk! This comm-UNITY event brings us together in a special way, and we hope that you’ll join us this year. The 2024 event will once again take place on our walking path, Prairie Trail. The route will be approximately 2.37 miles for runners and walkers.

Saturday, June 22, 2024 | Rain or Shine

New start times: Run - 8 a.m. | Walk - 8:30 a.m.

There is no entry fee or pre-registration required, though we invite you to consider a gift to Glencoe Regional Health Foundation for Prairie Trail enhancements. Visit grhsonline.org/foundation or use the enclosed envelope.

All participants of the Fun Run and Walk will receive a free t-shirt, while supplies last. We hope to see you at this year’s event!

WALK WITH OUR COMMUNITY

We encourage businesses, nonprofits, community groups, and just plain friends and family to participate together. Get creative with logo wear, matching gear, or signs. Or, just enjoy being in a group, and we’ll snap a fun photo for you.

We’ve also been excited to welcome Matthew Copple, DO, as a GRHemployed orthopedic provider.

New Strides in Orthopedic Care

GRH’s very own in-house orthopedic program brings high-quality care closer than ever.

When pain or mobility issues have you sidelined from your favorite activities or everyday tasks, our orthopedic services are here to offer a path back to functionality and pain-relief. In creating our own orthopedic program, we’ve taken steps toward more accessible, enhanced orthopedic care right here in our own community.

“By launching our own in-house program, we’re able to build upon our services with providers our patients know and love, and customize it to fit the needs of our community,” said President & CEO Ben Davis, FACHE. “We’re able to expand appointment availability and better serve

our community with providers who match our culture and are invested in the growth and health of our region.”

After already dedicating eight years to serving our community at GRH, Terese Haasken, MPAS, PA-C, has transitioned to a GRH-employed physician assistant. We’re excited to keep her expertise and compassionate patient care to help bring us into a new chapter of orthopedic care.

“At Glencoe Regional Health, I’ve found more than just a workplace – it’s family,” said Terese. “I’ve practiced here for several years, and have seen how the supportive culture here fosters an environment where both staff and patients thrive. Here, patients aren’t just numbers – they’re individuals with unique needs and stories. I’m proud to be part of this exceptional team.”

Dr. Copple has been providing excellent orthopedic care at GRH since July of 2022 through our previous external partnerships, but his new role as a GRHemployed surgeon has increased his availability at GRH.

“I’ve appreciated this organization’s commitment to providing exceptional care in a genuinely caring atmosphere,” said Dr. Copple. “Being able to offer patients high-quality care close to home allows us to truly connect with our community. Patients receive personalized care here in a warm, welcoming environment. I’ve been impressed with the team here, and feel Glencoe Regional Health aligns with my own values of building real relationships with patients.”

A Joint Effort

Our providers maintain a collaborative approach to treat injuries and conditions affecting the bones, muscles, joints, and ligaments.

“We treat a large variety of orthopedic concerns as a team, which is convenient for patients who don’t have to travel to the metro for high-quality orthopedic care,” said Terese.

“Being able to offer patients high-quality care close to home allows us to truly connect with our community. Patients receive personalized care here in a warm, welcoming environment.”

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Matthew Copple,

DO

As an experienced orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Copple brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the operating room table. He identifies and provides a diagnosis for patient concerns. He works with patients to create the best care plan for them, from referring them to rehabilitation services or a surgical procedure.

“Dr. Copple’s commitment to excellence and supportive care for our community is evident in every interaction with a patient,” said Terese. “Beyond his skillset as a surgeon, Dr. Copple’s approachable demeanor and willingness to listen make him a true partner in our patients’ healing journeys.”

Terese sees patients in our clinic and provides physical examinations, evaluates joint pain, gives injections, and explains surgical treatment options. When patients require surgery, she assists Dr. Copple in the operating room, and also provides her patients with post-surgery followup care.

“Terese’s ability to connect with patients on a personal level and navigate complex situations with support and empathy make her an invaluable partner in our department,” said Dr. Copple. “Her knowledge and dedication to this community make her a compassionate advocate for our patients.”

In addition to consulting with one another, our orthopedic team keeps an open line of communication with our rehabilitation services team, to ensure continuity of care for each of our patients.

Oftentimes, a patient does not require a surgical procedure, but can be referred to our in-house rehabilitation services for treatment. When a patient is referred to physical therapy, they’ll receive a personalized treatment plan designed specifically to help with each condition, including manual therapy, muscle control exercises, balance training, stretching, muscle retraining, strengthening exercises, and body posture education.

“It’s great to have the ability to send a referral in-house,” said Dr. Copple. “It’s wonderful for people in our community to be able to stay here for their care. Our

rehab staff are just on-the-ball, all the time. We have a really great rehabilitation services program here –the department is full of people who know what they’re doing and are passionate about their work.”

Even when surgery is required for a patient, our orthopedic team makes sure they loop in our rehabilitation services staff, so patients can ensure they receive therapy to help them recover after their procedure.

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR ORTHOPEDIC SERVICES

Visit our website at: grhsonline.org/orthopedics or call to make an appointment at 320-864-7816.

Terese Haasken, MPAS, PA-C Matthew Copple, DO

Bringing Terese and Dr. Copple on-board as in-house orthopedic providers expands availability of care for our community.

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Stepping New State Of Health

When Lona Oltmann rang in the new year in 2023, she never imagined she would undergo four surgeries in five months.

Lona anticipated another year of dancing the night away, enjoying fresh air on daily strolls, and spending long days walking around her favorite place: the Minnesota State Fair.

Her year didn’t kick off as expected when she injured her foot while dancing at a family member's wedding in January.

“I was on my feet the entire evening, and danced for four hours –in the process, I blew out the joint of my toe,” said Lona.

Her injury brought her to podiatrist Amie Scantlin, DPM, MHA, FACFAS, in February. By then, Lona could hardly walk on it.

After an X-ray and MRI revealed the injury in Lona’s foot, Dr. Scantlin scheduled her for a foot surgery. In the meantime, Lona continued to rest her injured foot in a boot.

But that was only the beginning – in June, she went to dinner with her family, and when she entered the restaurant, water at the bottom of the restaurant’s steps caused her to slip and fall, tearing the tendons in her shoulder and hip, just two weeks before her scheduled foot surgery.

Lona kept her scheduled surgery, in which a pin was put into her toe, extending into her foot. While she was recovering, she saw

orthopedic physician assistant Terese Haasken, MPAS, PA-C, for a preliminary appointment due to the pain in her shoulder. X-rays showed no broken bones in her shoulder, but Lona would require an MRI – unfortunately, she would need to wait until the metal pin was removed from her foot.

That day would come sooner than Lona expected. One month after surgery, Lona was getting out of a friend’s car when she hooked her foot, and accidentally pulled the pin halfway out of place.

“The next morning, I went to the Emergency Department, where I saw Dr. Jessen – bless his heart,” said Lona. “They took an X-ray and saw that the pin was outside where it should have been –still in the toe, but not all the way in. Dr. Scantlin said we needed to pull the pin because it was no longer in place and not able to do what it needed to.”

At that stage in Lona’s recovery, Dr. Scantlin recommended Lona keep her foot in a boot for the next month. With her foot surgery behind her, Lona went on to undergo surgery for the trauma in her shoulder, which was completed successfully. Lona also saw our physical therapy team to aide her recovery.

“They really put your mind at ease, ” said Lona. “They care about you. you’ re not just another number or another patient. Here, you’ re home. you’ re treated like you’ re special and like you count.”

Hip to the Problem

“Because of the significant pain in my shoulder and my outstanding foot surgery, I ignored the pain I was dealing with in my hip,” said Lona.

Lona returned to Terese, who first tried a cortisone injection and physical therapy.

“After physical therapy and the injection didn’t resolve Lona’s pain, we proceeded to get an MRI that showed tearing in the tendons of her hip, and a condition of the bone that indicated a total hip replacement would be needed,” said Terese.

Lona’s MRI took place on a Tuesday, and she received her results on Wednesday. It seemed Lona’s luck had returned, as Terese and orthopedic surgeon Matthew Copple, DO, happened to receive a cancellation for the following day.

“Life’s timing is crazy sometimes,” said Lona. “Because of the cancellation, they offered me an appointment for the very

next day. I needed a pre-op physical, so they got me an appointment with Jess Larson, MSN, FNP-BC, that same day, and the next morning, I was in surgery.”

Even with the quick availability for her surgery with Terese and Dr. Copple, Lona felt at ease heading into the operating room the next day.

“I never had any fears during the process. I would give my right arm to the staff at GRH. I have total faith in them,” said Lona. “I’ve had many surgeries here, and so I had no reservations this time around. It’s the best place to be. We have the very best right here.”

Lona attributes her comfort in the process to her confidence in Terese, Dr. Copple, and the surgery team at GRH.

“They really put your mind at ease,” said Lona. “They care about you. You’re not just another number or another patient. Here, you’re home. You’re treated like you’re special and like you count.”

Lona’s sentiment is shared by our team at GRH.

“We care for our patients like family here,” said Terese. “It’s been said over and over again amongst the providers at GRH – this community extends so much gratitude to GRH and welcomes their providers into their lives like family, and our team at GRH does the same in return.”

A Hand in Her Recovery

Lona dealt with carpal tunnel in her left hand due to extended time using a computer at work each day.

“My left hand had been going numb, too,” said Lona. “It had been bugging me for months, but I did nothing with it. At that point, I thought, what’s another surgery?”

In late October, Lona underwent carpal tunnel surgery. The numbness she’d been experiencing was immediately gone after surgery, and she helped her hand recover by wearing a brace and isotonic gloves at night, as well as seeing Michelle Becker, OTR/L, for occupational therapy. Story continues on the following page.

Did you know?

You don’t need a referral to be seen in our orthopedics department!

Learn more about our orthopedic services on page 8, or visit grhsonline.org/orthopedics

“Lona was always smiling – I was impressed by how she kept a positive attitude despite the health challenges she faced throughout the year,” said Dr. Copple.

stepping new state of health into a

From Surgery to State Fair

Now, Lona’s foot and hand have healed, and she’s graduated from physical therapy for her shoulder, where she’s worked with physical therapist Jen Keenan, PT, MPT

“I can’t say enough about the rehab department,” said Lona. “I’ve worked with several of them, and they’re all wonderful, but Jen Keenan is a gem. She encourages me and when I don’t feel like I’ve improved enough, she reminds me of all the progress I’ve made over the last year.”

After diligently doing her exercises each day, she describes herself as being back to 85 percent with her hip.

“It’s no longer pain in my hip, it’s the weakness that I’m working on,” said Lona. “I’m building my strength back, and that feels good. My big goal is to be able to tolerate long-distance walking this summer. I’m a Minnesota State Fair addict, and I go two or three days each summer, so I need to be able to walk.”

Since she was 9 years old, Lona has attended the State Fair with her family, including her father, Orville, who showed hogs at the Fair for nearly 50 years, and was even featured on Channel 11 news.

“The State Fair was just always a big deal for us. I love it, my kids love it, my grandkids love it. I grew up with it,” said Lona. “There’s so much to do at the Fair, and spending time with my family there has been really special. We’ve had many fun years at the Fair and made so many friends. It’s a big deal for us.”

Lona has shared her goals with our physical therapy team, who are working with Lona to make sure she’s able to enjoy her cotton candy on a cone while walking around the fair herself.

“My goal is to truly be able to walk it,” said Lona. “I don’t want to resort to a scooter,

“ I’ m building my strength back, and that feels good. My big goal is to be able to tolerate longdistance walking this summer, ” said Lona.

so my goal is to build up my strength enough to be able to tolerate walking for a day. I’m grateful for the support from Jen and the rest of the physical therapy team in working to reach that goal.”

Lona’s journey from multiple surgeries to her recovery is a testament to her own resilience. As she looks forward with excitement to returning to the State Fair this year, she reflects on the importance of perseverance and the care she’s received over the last year at GRH.

“You develop a rapport with your team here,” said Lona. “We’re very fortunate in our community. If I can do it at Glencoe Regional Health, I’ll do everything at Glencoe Regional Health. I feel like I belong here.”

To learn more about our orthopedic services, visit our website at: grhsonline.org/orthopedics or call to make an appointment at 320-864-7816.

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“Lona has a wonderful sense of humor and always finds the bright side of things. We laugh every time she comes in,” said Terese.

Lona’s family has received many ribbons and awards in competitions at the State Fair over the years - including Grand Champion plaques.

“I recently completed my undergraduate degree on the pre-med track, majoring in Biology. Inspired by my mom, who works in healthcare, I hope to become a physician. As I look ahead to medical school, I'm so grateful for the scholarship from Glencoe Regional Health Foundation. My journey has been supported in a variety of ways by many people and organizations that want me to succeed, and I’m grateful.”

– Connor Sturges, Scholarship Recipient

SANKEN-HATZ SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM CELEBRATING OVER $1 MILLION IN IMPACT!

Thanks to the generosity of the scholarship program’s namesakes, Carl Sanken and Don Hatz, local students have been supported in big ways as they pursue healthcare careers.

Carl Sanken, a farmer from the Biscay area, and Don Hatz, a farmer and postal clerk from the Glencoe area, included generous gifts to the Foundation in their wills. They cared about high-quality, safe, and accessible healthcare, and they wanted to support local students in their educational journeys.

With wise and thoughtful stewardship of these incredible gifts and additional gifts from many, Glencoe Regional Health Foundation has been a partner for graduating high school seniors, postsecondary students, and graduate students for over 20 years. 53 students will receive scholarship awards totaling $50,500 in 2024, bringing the total awarded since inception to an amazing $1,050,388. This year, we celebrate impact, generosity, and stewardship.

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR 2024 RECIPIENTS!

HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS / FIRST-YEAR STUDENTS POST-SECONDARY STUDENTS

Buffalo Lake-Hector-

Stewart High School

Emelia Erickson

Morgan Mueller

Glencoe-Silver Lake

High School

Marissa Brinkmann

Callie Klabunde

Allison Maas

Hutchinson High School

Quinton MacMullan

Daniel Roiger

Lester Prairie High School

Ava Heimerl

Jessa Heimerl

Rosa Ramirez

Sibley East High School

Lorraine Battcher

Lauren Bauer

Karcyn Dose

Ella Eiden

Maryn Halverson

Paris Kube

Kayla Alguire

Elizabeth Anderson

Calla Becker

Riley Borka

Nolan Glander

Hayden Glander

Taylor Hatlestad

Brooke Heimerl

Jenna Heimerl

Brody Hentges

Kendra Klobe

Anna Meeker

Majkya Metcalf

Leah Nemec

Morgan Peck

Kaitlyn Popp

GRADUATE STUDENTS

Molli Cacka

Grace Daak

Jaret Glander

Abbie Hatlestad

Rhyan Herrmann

Anna Mackenthun

Theodore Petersen

Rachael Popp

Brittney Richter

Samuel Stresemann

Margaret Schuft

Audrey Seifert

Kyla Struck

Josilynn Tonn

Rachel Trebesch

Jenna Trippel

Madison Witte

Mikayla Witte

Emily Thalmann

Jaci Tourtellott

Jamie Vergin

You can be part of this impact, too. Learn more at grhsonline.org/scholarships

Your Year To Volunteer

Make the day brighter for our GlenFields residents. These roles are ideal for small groups and/or teams.

• Games

• Crafts

Volunteer

noun | vol • un • teer

: a person who freely gives their time and labor, often for community service

: See also: incredible human being, angel, friend, neighbor, caring, generous

We need you.

Volunteering at Glencoe Regional Health slowed during the height of the COVID-19 global pandemic. Thanks to a partnership with Glencoe Regional Health Foundation and new grant funding from Hutchinson-based Southwest Initiative Foundation, we have rebuilt.

And we’re ready for you to join us!

Our Community Cares Program for volunteers helps GRH, and it helps you, too. It allows you to give back in ways that matter, while simultaneously supporting your health and well-being. Studies show that volunteering can:

• Improve mental and physical health

• Provide a sense of purpose

• Teach valuable skills

• Nurture new and existing relationships

At GRH, there is a job for every age and every interest. While we have a list of roles you can fill, we can also work with you and/or a small group to craft a custom experience.

The launch of our Community Cares Program was made possible thanks to a partnership with Glencoe Regional Health Foundation and a grant from the Southwest Initiative Foundation.

• Baking

• Special Event Support

• Music

• Adventure Guest (share a travel or adventure experience with photos, tasty treats, or souvenirs)

• Chalk Artist

These roles involve a personal interaction and allow you to build meaningful relationships.

• Trishaw Bike

• Walking Buddy

• Patient/Resident Transport

• 1-1 Visitor/Companion

• Gift Shop

• Manicures

Work on a specific project at your leisure. Here, you can be a hero! Come on-site at GRH or volunteer in the comfort of your own space.

• Holiday Hero – help take down and pack holiday décor

• Gratitude Hero – thank our incredible employees and generous donors with handwritten notes and other small acts of kindness

• Office Support Hero – work on a variety of clerical projects

• Sewing Hero – create caps and burp cloths for newborns, icepack covers, wheelchair bags, and more

• Special Event Hero – help at the Fun Run and Walk, Scarecrow Trail, blood drives, and more

• Helping Hands Garden Hero – care for the vegetable gardens along Prairie Trail

You can be part of something bigger. You can make a difference.

GRH is home to GlenFields Living with Care, a skilled nursing facility that becomes home to those needing care. We call those neighbors “residents,” and they would love a connection with you and our community.

Volunteer extraordinaire Joan Wandrei has been part of our GRH volunteer team for more than two decades. She has helped in many ways, including blood drives, resident transporting, special events for GlenFields residents, gift shop, and more.

“Volunteering keeps me busy, and there are so many good things that can be done here at Glencoe Regional Health,” shared Joan. “Meeting the people and sharing smiles with them is very rewarding, and I truly enjoy it.”

Make a paws-itive impact.

While Joan is a continuous friendly face at GRH, we are always looking for more ways to bring a sense of community to GlenFields residents and help make the days brighter. As such, we are working to launch an Animal Assisted Activity program, and we need you and your favorite furry friend.

Contact us if you and your pet would like to be trained as a volunteer team to provide fun activities and snuggles for GlenFields residents.

This custom training, available now, is made possible at no cost to you, thanks to Glencoe Regional Health Foundation, Southwest Initiative Foundation, and Animal Inspirations, LLC.

Are you ready to get involved?

Scan the QR code to register online. Or, contact: Denise Lemke Volunteer & Marketing Events Coordinator 320-864-7703 | denise.lemke@grhsonline.org | grhsonline.org/volunteer

Not all residents of GlenFields are as fortunate as David. Standard Poodle Bella stops by from time-to-time to visit her best friend.

Joan Wandrei is a committed volunteer at Glencoe Regional Health and has been for a long time. One of the tasks she helps with is transporting residents like Marlys to and from happenings on our campus.

Since its founding in 1988, Glencoe Regional Health Foundation has relied on volunteer leadership and supplemental administrative and professional support from Glencoe Regional Health (GRH) to breathe life into its mission: to provide opportunities for community-based healthcare support and to promote GRH.

We began writing a new chapter when the Foundation’s Board of Directors decided it was time to invest in a paid, professional position. It was time to invest to grow our impact.

Stewart-native Liz Cheney, CFRE, was hired for the role of Foundation Director and brings nearly two decades of nonprofit leadership and fundraising experience to the Foundation.

“Glencoe Regional Health is a special place – I know that because I’m a patient here. I’m so honored and excited to have the opportunity to grow the impact of Glencoe Regional Health Foundation,” shared Liz. “We’re starting from a position of strength. The Foundation has done a lot of good in its 35 years.”

That good includes offering its signature Sanken-Hatz Scholarship Program to support students, investing in GRH capital projects to stay competitive, and awarding grants to local organizations working to advance health and well-being.

Since the Foundation’s founding, over $2.3 million has been given back to our communities.

And there is more good to come! Thanks to you.

“The Foundation is also excited to announce that we’ve launched a new catalogue of giving options – allowing you to choose your impact based on what matters most to you,” said Larry Anderson, Foundation Board President. “This is another exciting part of our new chapter.”

We invite your generosity both today and in your estate plan. We’d love to be a partner in your legacy planning!

Cheney, CFRE Foundation Director

Thank You To Our Foundation Board Leadership

Larry Anderson President

Cindy Klaustermeier Vice President

Tina Rosckes Secretary/Treasurer

Jon Jerabek

Kari Kunkel

Amanda Leino, MD (October start)

Mary Ott

Amie Scantlin, DPM, MHA, FACFAS

Orville Trettin

Cody W. Wendlandt, MD, FAAFP (October start)

Karen Wendlandt

Marie Zimmerman (October start)

CHOOSE YOUR IMPACT Student Scholarships

• Sanken-Hatz Scholarship Program - support local students, like those on page 13

• Named Scholarship ($2,500) – we’ll partner with you to define criteria based on your goals, and a scholarship next year will carry your name

Join us in supporting our next generation of healthcare professionals!

$1+ Million awarded to support 434 students pursuing healthcare careers.

Glencoe Regional Health Projects

• Capital – future renovations and/or additions. Current priority project is the Birth Center. Read more on page 2

• Care – programs and/or services that enhance patient care and well-being

• GlenFields Living with Care - impact the lives of our residents

• Prairie Trail Walking Path - help enhance our community

Join us in investing in excellent facilities and patient care!

$1+ Million invested in Wound Center renovations, Prairie Trail Walking Path development, 3D Mammography Equipment purchase, and more.

Mission and Community Health

• Greatest need – entrust specific decisions regarding your gift to our Board of Directors

• Endowment fund – support the Foundation’s long-term sustainability

Join us in building partnerships in our community!

$55,000+ In funding to local organizations that support community health and well-being.

Today, we invite you to use the enclosed contribution envelope and choose your impact in this new chapter. You can also give online at grhsonline.org/foundation or contact Liz with any questions.

Glencoe Regional Health

1805 Hennepin Ave. N.

Glencoe, MN 55336-1416

Matthew Copple, DO, and Terese Haasken, MPAS, PA-C, keep orthopedic services close to home for our community.