My Boone Health - Spring 2025

Boone Health A SPECIAL BABY EDITION

A Family of

BOONE BABIES It’s quite an honor to have a Boone baby, and Brandy Templeton has had three.

PG. 16

“Sorry Dad, you were blocking the plate.”

When your child (or child at heart) gets hurt, choose OUCH at Columbia Orthopaedic Group.

OUCH (Orthopaedic Urgent Care Hub) is our walk-in clinic where you can be seen right away.

Open Monday-Friday 10am-6pm & Saturday 8am-12pm 1 South Keene Street in Columbia

Table of Contents 8

SPRIN G 2 0 25 MANAGING EDITOR

Erin Wegner

COPY EDITOR

Jessica Park

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Madison Loethen

ADDITIONAL CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Kate Basi; Beth Frazier; Emily Nusbaum; Jenny L. Workman CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Lana Eklund

Follow us Check Boone Health out on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and YouTube.

10

12

26

Please submit comments or feedback to erin.wegner@boone.health or call 573.815.3217 1600 East Broadway Columbia, MO 65201 573.815.8000

5 6 8

A Note from Brady Hospital Headlines Empowered Pregnancy

10 Working With Down

Syndrome Organization

For a FREE subscription, scan the QR code, visit boone.pub/subscribe, or call 573.815.3392.

12 Pelvic Floor Therapy

14 Family Activities in the Spring 16 A Family of Boone Babies

18 History of Boone Babies 20 Realistic Expectations

For Brand-New Parents

22 Doctor To Know 24 Nurse To Know

26 Refreshing Smoothie Recipes 28 Staying Fit While Pregnant 30 Foundation News

Board of Directors Jerry Kennett, MD

Dianne M. Lynch, Ph.D.

Randy Morrow

Delivery

Based on the latest research, Fit for Delivery is designed to provide you with comprehensive education to have a healthy pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum experience.

Charles P. Bondurant, MD, FABNS, FACS

Stacye Smith

Judy Starr

Mary Beck, DNP, RN, NE-BC, FAONL

Jeffery Lashley, Ph.D.

boone.health/ffd 4

BOONE HEALTH

Spring 2025

A NOTE FROM BRADY

What’s a Boone Baby?

W

hen people in our community learn where I work, sometimes they’ll tell me, “I’m a Boone Baby!”

It’s not just a local phenomenon. Boone Health Board Chair Jerry Kennett, MD, recently shared a story at a board meeting where, while talking to a consultant in Washington, D.C., they told Dr. Kennett that they were a Boone Baby. And earlier this year, our post-partum unit had the honor of caring for 10 sets of twins over the course of a few weeks!

In my experience, it’s uncommon for people to proudly identify with the hospital where they or their children were born, it’s typically just the city. But I understand why it happens with Boone Hospital babies.

As I see it, being a Boone Baby reflects the high-quality care and compassion families receive at Boone. Most people are anxious when they think about hospital stays, so it’s meaningful that members of our community reflect fondly on the often stressful experience of childbirth.

Folks call themselves and their children Boone Babies because they appreciate the experienced and knowledgeable nurses, physicians, and other healthcare professionals who cared for them every step of the way. And they want others to have a similar experience.

Whether that first step toward starting or adding to a family begins with our team of board-certified obstetricians at Women’s Health Associates or with Gil Wilshire, MD, at Missouri Fertility, our experienced medical experts carry on a century-long tradition of delivering Boone Babies in a safe and supportive environment.

At the hospital, our experienced Maternal Child Health nurses provide excellent care before, during, and after birth. Many of our nurses have been with Boone for over 20 years and have certifications in OB nursing. Our Labor & Delivery unit provides a welcoming and safe environment for childbirth, including lowintervention delivery options.

Our Postpartum unit includes comfortable rooms designed for bonding with baby, family visits, and rest.

Sometimes newborn babies require additional levels of care. Our neonatologists and Level-III neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) provide critical care for premature and seriously ill newborns as well as compassion, support, and education for parents. Our NICU opened in 1996. Today, some of our first NICU patients are healthy adults with Boone Babies of their own.

A new baby can be a joyful and stressful experience simultaneously, whether it’s your first time or your fifth. To help parents feel better prepared to have and care for their babies, our nurses share their knowledge in our Family Life Education classes covering childbirth, breastfeeding, infant safety and CPR, and more. For more information about our classes and childbirth services, please visit boone. health/services/childbirthnewborn-services.

After bringing baby home, Boone families continue to receive excellent care. After leaving the hospital, new mothers can contact a lactation consultant with any breastfeeding questions.

Bringing Up Boone Babies, an online support group run by our OB nurses, gives parents the opportunity to ask questions and share experiences. And Tiger Pediatrics gives many Boone Babies their first medical home and a great start towards a healthy life.

With an experienced care team committed to ensuring the best outcomes for mothers and babies, it’s not hard to see why people choose to have a Boone Baby.

Brady Dubois CEO, Boone Health

Boone.Health/My-Boone-Health

5

NEW Chief Medical Officer Announced Lana Zerrer, MD has been appointed as Boone Health’s next Chief Medical Officer. Dr. Zerrer, who is currently chief of staff at the Truman Veterans Hospital here in Columbia, will start her position on April 7. She will succeed Dr. Robin Blount who is retiring from Boone Health after 38 years of service.

Dr. Zerrer brings a significant amount of leadership experience that will enhance our already strong organization and help us as we expand our services to address the health care needs of the community.

Dr. Zerrer has served as chief of staff at the VA since June 2010, and prior to that she was director of the Primary Care service line and a staff physician at the hospital. She also has served on the national Veterans Administration Physician Advocacy Council, which ensures physicians have what they need, including staffing and technology, to provide the best care possible.

Dr. Zerrer holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from Westminster and a medical degree from the University of Missouri, where she also completed her

residency in Internal Medicine. Following her residency, she served in the Air Force Medical Corp, during which she was deployed to Kyrgyzstan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. She is

board certified through the American Board of Internal Medicine.

She has lived in Columbia since 1995.

Please join us in welcoming her to Boone Health!

New Patient Menu Launched March 11 In January, Boone Health staff voted on 5 different patient menu choices and collectively decided on a Vibrant patient menu.

In February, staff, patients and visitors got to sample and provide feedback on new dishes being added to the patient menus.

In March, Boone Health Nutrition & Food Service launched the new patient menu.

This new menu reflects Boone Health’s commitment to enhancing the dining experience for our patients.

6

BOONE HEALTH

Spring 2025

HOSPITAL HEADLINES

New Providers

Boone Baby Raises $13K for NICU

PRIM ARY CARE

Matthew Cormier, MD has joined Boone Health Primary Care – Broadway, and is located at 1605 E. Broadway, Suite 110 in Columbia, Mo. GENER AL S URG E RY

Hadassah Consuegra, DO and Heidi Mahnken, MD recently joined Boone Health General Surgery. They are located at 1601 E. Broadway, Suite 240 in Columbia, Mo.

Ellie Eastman is a senior at Hickman High School, along with her sister Caroline and her two brothers, Luke and Wilson. In 2007, they were the 4th set of quadruplets that were born at Boone Hospital Center (there have only been 6 sets of quadruplets to date). Their mom Kristin is also a Boone Baby.

For her Court Warming charity, Ellie chose Boone Hospital’s NICU. Ellie and her siblings spent 9 weeks in the NICU, so this seemed like the perfect choice.

After weeks of fundraising, Ellie was able to raise $13,000!

DIA BE T E S AND END O CRI N O LO G Y

CONVENIENT CARE - BUSINESS LOOP

Expanded Convenient Care – Business Loop Hours Sean Hamlett, DO joined Boone Health Diabetes and Endocrinology.

He is located at 1705 E. Broadway, Suite 300 in Columbia, Mo.

Boone Health’s Convenient Care – Business Loop clinic is dedicated to meeting your needs whenever it’s most convenient for you. With expanded hours on the weekend, the clinic will now be open from 7 AM – 6:30 PM seven days a week.

No appointment is necessary. Located at – 601 Business Loop 70 West, Suite 275, the clinic provides urgent care needs as well as general physical exams; DOT exams; school, sport or camp physicals; smoking cessation; and vaccines.

Boone.Health/My-Boone-Health

7

Empowered Pregnancy:

Haley’s Journey to Motherhood

How one expectant mom found strength and support through Boone Health’s Fit for Delivery class.

8

BOONE HEALTH

Spring 2025

A

s a nurse, Haley Chastain was particularly attuned to the changes happening in her body throughout her first pregnancy.

She and her husband, Adam, were overjoyed to learn they were expecting. Given Haley’s previous diagnosis of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), they had anticipated a longer journey to conception, but to their delight, they became pregnant quickly.

Their friends and family shared their excitement, and early on the couple decided they wanted to know their baby’s gender.

“We did the blood test, and as I was pulling into work one day, I just had a feeling the results would be in. I checked my email, and there they were! I immediately called Adam so we could find out together. It’s a boy, and we are thrilled!” Haley shares.

Fit For Delivery When is the class?

Haley’s first trimester went smoothly with fatigue being her only significant symptom. However, she did have concerns about her pelvic floor health, as she had experienced issues in the past.

Fortunately, her mother Tracy Evers, the director of Boone Health’s physical therapy program, introduced her to Boone’s Fit for Delivery class.

Fit for Delivery is a comprehensive, half-day class led by pelvic floor therapist Beth Frazier.

“This class is designed to support women from the early stages of pregnancy through postpartum recovery.

We provide guidance on prenatal nutrition and exercise, teach techniques to prepare for childbirth, and discuss ways to improve outcomes for both mom and baby. We also cover essential postpartum education, including breastfeeding support and recovery after both vaginal and C-section deliveries,” explains Beth.

Haley took the class when she was 12 weeks pregnant and is grateful she took it so early.

“I’ve been following the nutrition advice and doing the pelvic floor exercises ever since. I can already tell a difference—I have much less urgency, which was a struggle before,” she says.

Pelvic floor health during pregnancy and postpartum is one focus of the class.

“We address important topics like pelvic floor health and strategies to

prevent urinary leakage. Our goal is to provide women with a roadmap to feel empowered throughout their pregnancy journey,” Beth adds.

Class participants receive a “goodie bag” filled with useful postpartum supplies, breastfeeding essentials, and even a perineal stretching tool.

“The giveaway items alone probably cover the cost of the class. They provide us with so much,” Haley notes.

Additionally, participants receive a binder filled with comprehensive content from the class.

“I love having my binder to refer back to for my exercises. It’s been a great resource,” Haley says.

The class also covers labor and delivery techniques, including various birthing positions, labor techniques, and pushing strategies.

“Even if moms opt for an epidural, they still have birthing options. Learning about different positions and techniques is really helpful,” Haley explains.

Now in her third trimester, Haley continues to use the knowledge she gained from the class to stay strong during pregnancy and prepare for birth and postpartum recovery.

“This class is incredibly valuable for expectant moms. When you become pregnant, your mindset shifts to focusing on the baby, but it’s important for moms to take care of themselves too,” she says.

By Madison Loethen

The class will take place on the following Saturdays: • April 12, 8 AM – 12 PM • August 2, 8 AM – 12 PM • October 25, 8AM – 12 PM Cost Enrollment for a single class is $150.

Scholarships are available for anyone who requires financial assistance to participate.

Email Monica.Collins@ boone.health to receive information on obtaining a scholarship or donating to the scholarship fund..

How do I sign up?

Email Elizabeth.Frazier@ boone.health stating you wish to participate, and you will receive all the information to reserve your spot.

Boone.Health/My-Boone-Health

9

Boone Health Working With Down Syndrome Organization to Connect Parents

Julianna Basi is greeted by her big brother Alex, shortly after her birth in 2007, while mom and dad watch.

W

hen my daughter was born in 2007, the St. Louis hospital where she was born was totally unprepared for a diagnosis of Down syndrome. Her 20-week ultrasound gave no warning, but the moment the delivery room staff saw her, they knew, and the tone turned instantly into a fake sounding “happy-happy.” I felt it happen, I just didn’t know why… until two hours later, when the doctor came in and spoke two words that erased all other memory: “chromosomal abnormality.”

At the moment he said those words, I’d seen my newborn for exactly thirty seconds. I had spent an hour or more asking when my baby would be brought to me to nurse.

In the first twenty-four hours after our daughter’s birth, my husband Christian and I went into complementary survival modes. I knew my job was to bond with the baby. My husband knew he needed to take charge of finding out what this new reality required of us.

At the time, the hospital in St. Louis had no resources to offer us, so he went online and also engaged with family. Christian

10

BOONE HEALTH

Spring 2025

quickly learned that because 50% of children with Down syndrome are born with heart defects, an echocardiogram is standard of care for a newborn with Trisomy 21 (the medical term for Down syndrome). Christian asked the hospital-assigned pediatrician why we had not heard about this yet?

The pediatrician said, “Three doctors listened to your daughter, and she has no heart murmur, so it would be a waste of money.

We’re not going to do one.”

It was our first lesson in special needs parenting: there will always be people throwing obstacles in the way, and as parents, you will have to be a bulldozer.

After twenty-four hours of escalating conflict, they finally agreed and did the echo — and discovered that our daughter did have a heart defect. In fact, she had three, significant enough to require open-heart surgery when she was six months old.

The lessons Christian and I learned in those first days of our daughter’s life marked us for the rest of our lives. We learned we had to advocate for our daughter at every step.

We also learned that support and connection with community resources can be hard to access. Privacy regulations are ironclad; parents contemplating a Down syndrome diagnosis have literally no way to find each other. We were lucky.

Three of our family’s most meaningful contacts came by sheer happenstance: running into one young mother and child with Down syndrome at Kidz Court in the Columbia Mall; spotting another child a few years later at the Jefferson City ice rink; the sheer luck of our oldest son being assigned to a baseball team where another boy had a younger sister with Trisomy 21.

Christian and I have made family connection and support one of our primary goals as parent advocates. We don’t want anyone to go through what we did. We know that families given a diagnosis of Down syndrome all have questions, fears, and anxieties. We know that they need reassurance that they’re not alone and that there is hope and brightness in their future.

But we also know that for most families contemplating a disability diagnosis, reaching out to ask for that support from total strangers is excruciatingly difficult. In fact, it’s nearly impossible.

Health care workers, and the institutions where they work, stand in a beautiful place in these moments. Doctors, nurses, and social workers are perfectly placed to help facilitate contact for families who don’t have the emotional bandwidth to reach out themselves.

And more and more, we are seeing OB/Gyn doctors, their staff and the nurses in Labor and Delivery helping guide those families toward important resources when they know about them. Not surprisingly, the providers and staff at Boone Hospital have been more than happy to continue learning about these resources in midMissouri for their current and future patients.

Recently, Christian and I had the opportunity to talk to OBs/Gyns and Labor & Delivery staff who work at Boone Hospital. These incredibly caring people listened intently as we shared our

Julianna works on her trunk muscles at Sunny Oaks Farm equine therapy program.

story and underscored Right: As a baby, Julianna wore special how important a support wear to sit role they, as medical up and work on leg and back muscles. professionals, have in facilitating connections Bottom Right: between parents and Julianna continues to be a regular member local resources. of the Hickman High We are blessed in School Color Guard central Missouri with and competes with the high school’s a host of organizations, Marching Band. both public and private, that are ready to step in and offer guidance, information, and training to families grappling with questions they might not even know how to put into words.

The staff at Boone Health had already been aware of some of the community resources, but they were willing to meet with us to make sure they had the latest information. Christian and I are overwhelmed with gratitude to Boone for welcoming us in to speak to doctors and nurses, to let us share our story, and to begin forging connections that we hope will serve families long into the future. By Kate Basi

Connect with Community If you have questions about Down syndrome, please feel free to connect with Kate and Christian Basi at KathleenBasi@gmail.com or ChristianBasi1999@gmail.com or through the Central Missouri Down Syndrome Parent Forum at facebook.com/groups/348615525839430.

Boone.Health/My-Boone-Health

11

How Pelvic Floor Therapy Supports Ashley’s Pregnancy and Postpartum Recovery A

shley Strope Freer and her husband Matthew welcomed their son Cooper into the world on April 17, 2024.

When Ashley was around 14 weeks pregnant, she began experiencing the common symptoms many pregnant women face. She was struggling with bladder leakage when she sneezed, and she wanted to do all she could to experience a healthy pregnancy and prepare for childbirth. Knowing the powerful benefits of Pelvic Floor Therapy, Ashley made an appointment with Boone Health’s Therapy Services and started seeing Beth Frazier, Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist for one-on-one weekly sessions.

Throughout their sessions, Beth worked with Ashley to strengthen and train the pelvic floor muscles. Beth taught Ashley various techniques, which not only helped her control her bladder during pregnancy but also prevented some of the constipation issues that are common in pregnancy.

“We worked on the mobility and coordination of her pelvic floor,” Beth said. “The pelvic floor needs to not only be strong, but also be mobile and able to absorb forces to prevent urinary leakage.”

Pelvic Floor Therapy is a specialized form of physical therapy aimed at treating pelvic floor dysfunctions which can affect bladder and bowel control as well as pelvic control, sexual health and overall mobility. This therapy involves exercises and techniques designed to improve the function and coordination of pelvic floor muscles in order to alleviate symptoms.

A common problem during pregnancy is constipation issues. Even though she didn’t seek pelvic floor therapy for these issues, Ashley firmly believed it helped her avoid constipation issues so many pregnant women face.

12

BOONE HEALTH

Spring 2025

Ashley learned proper breathing techniques and how to control and coordinate different muscles – whether it was her abdominal area or pelvic muscles – ensuring that her pelvic floor remained flexible and responsive.

“In childbirth,” Beth explains, “pelvic floor flexibility is important as the baby passes through. We work on all of this to improve symptoms during pregnancy and prepare the body for delivery.”

Even though Ashley did all of this planning for a vaginal delivery, Cooper was born via an unplanned C-section.

Ashley continued to see Beth and found that her pelvic floor therapy training benefited her post-pregnancy. She learned how to properly engage her core and gradually strengthen her body to help with recovery. The techniques she learned allowed her to move without feeling like she was straining her core, especially when performing simple tasks like getting out of bed, going up and down stairs, or even standing in the shower.

Beth worked with Ashley to manage scar tissue from the C-section.

“We know most women who undergo C-sections develop internal scar tissue that can cause various bowel and bladder issues much further down the road,” Beth said. “We worked on scar tissue mobilization to mitigate this risk.”

Ashley learned techniques to massage the area, helping to reduce scar tissue buildup.

C-sections involve cutting through multiple layers of the body, including muscle, so Ashley needed to relearn how to use those

muscles as they healed. Beth also focused on restoring Ashley’s core strength to get her body back in shape. This was a crucial part of her postpartum recovery, helping her feel more mobile and less painful when moving around.

“Part of Ashley’s postpartum care was focusing on proper breathing techniques, movement mechanics and restoring proper core activation and function. These are the elements that help the core and pelvic floor heal so she can return to all of her daily activities without symptoms,” Beth said.

Ashley’s experience with pelvic floor therapy made her postpartum journey much easier compared to other women she knew. She was grateful for the tools and techniques Beth had given her before and after her delivery.

Beth’s work with Ashley highlights the importance of pelvic floor therapy, which is designed to address mobility, coordination, and strength. A strong, flexible pelvic floor helps prevent issues like urinary leakage during pregnancy, and is especially vital during childbirth as the pelvic floor needs to be able to expand for the baby’s passage. After delivery, pelvic floor therapy focuses on restoring core strength, managing scar tissue, and ensuring the body can return to normal function without pain or symptoms.

For Ashley, the breathing techniques, movement mechanics, and coordination of her pelvic floor muscles helped her recover more quickly from her C-section, making everyday activities more manageable. Having the proper tools in her toolkit made a world of difference in her postpartum recovery. By Erin Wegner Boone.Health/My-Boone-Health

13

Family Friendly

ACTIVITIES TO DO IN THE SPRING

14

BOONE HEALTH

Spring 2025

A

s the weather warms up, engaging in outdoor activities can significantly benefit both personal well-being and community connection. Here are some ideas for you, your family, and friends. Spending time outdoors boosts exposure to sunlight, which supports vitamin D production. It also helps reduce the risk of chronic illnesses, lowers stress levels, and enhances mental clarity. Being in nature has a calming effect on the mind, reducing stress and anxiety while improving mood and overall life satisfaction.

Outdoor Festivals

Outdoor Fitness Classes

Usually found in state parks, local parks, schools and neighborhoods. Great space to meet and interact – climbing walls, monkey bars, swings, obstacle courses, slides, tunnels, skateboarding, and so much more.

Yoga or Tai Chi classes in the park.

Walks, Hikes and Cycling

Group hikes, cycling groups, or jogging/ walking meetups on trails and local parks.

Participate in Local Farmer’s Markets

Check for farmer’s market locations in your city. Some markets operate year-round, but during warmer months, they tend to feature more vendors offering a diverse selection of food and products.

Picnics and Barbecues in Local Parks

Invite your family and friends to bring food and enjoy an afternoon outdoors. It’s a fun way to enjoy each other while cooking outdoors.

Outdoor Movie Nights or Concerts

Screen movies or live music events in a park or at outdoor events. Provides free or low-cost entertainment options.

Community Clean-Up

Host a clean-up event or volunteer for a city-organized initiative focused on parks or neighborhoods.

Gardening

Plant food or flower gardens in your backyard or get involved in a community garden.

Sports Tournaments (e.g., Soccer, Basketball, Softball, Tennis, Pickleball)

Set up friendly competitions or casual games in local fields or courts. Or participate in Show Me State Games or find a local team to join.

Participate in local music festivals, art & crafts shows, heritage festival, and other local outside events.

Nature Walks or Educational Tours

Organize or participate in guided tours of nearby parks, forests, or nature reserves, where you can learn about the local flora, fauna, or history.

Community Playgrounds

Host Outdoor Reading or Storytelling Sessions

Organize or participate in a book club or outdoor reading hour in the park for all ages.

Reading in nature provides a peaceful setting for learning and reflection.

There are plenty of ways to find out what’s happening in your city! Here are some effective methods to keep you updated on local events, activities, and news: • City or Community Websites • Social Media • Event Apps • Local Newspapers and Magazines • Tourism Websites and Visitor Centers • Local Radio Stations and Podcasts • Event Flyers and Posters • Ask Friends, Family, and Coworkers • Local Libraries and Community Center • Local Event Websites • Online Local Forums or Groups By using a combination of these methods, you’ll be able to stay in the loop and find great outdoor activities happening around your city. Whether you’re looking for a festival, a farmers’ market, or a new art exhibit, there’s always something to discover! By Jenny L. Workman, Community Wellness Manager

Boone.Health/My-Boone-Health

15

A Family of Boone Babies It’s quite an honor to have a Boone baby, and Brandy Templeton’s had three.

B

randy started working in the Maternal Child Health department as a new nurse graduate 18 years ago and worked her way up to supervisor. “I came here, found my love and my passion and never left,” Brandy said.

By chance, Brandy was set up on a blind date by one of her co-workers. Actually, two separate co-workers from two different jobs tried to set Brandy up with the same man, Levi. They have now been married for 15 years and have 3 daughters together.

‘I’ve never been shy about sharing my birthing experiences,” Brandy said. “I used to teach birthing classes and would share my stories to rooms full of people, so privacy was never an issue.

Our three daughters are now ages 13, 11, and 7, and each of their births holds a special place in my heart.”

With her first baby, Brandy asked Deb Oliver, a senior nurse at Boone Hospital, to be her nurse. Deb retired shortly after Brandy’s third baby was born, but delayed her retirement so she could be there for all three births.

“I’ll never forget her saying yes when I asked if she could be my nurse,” Brandy shares. “She was mentoring a younger nurse at the time, and the two of them took me through my induction, knowing how important it was for me to have a low-intervention, vaginal delivery. Deb, with her years of experience and knowledge of those old nurse tricks, was exactly what I needed.”

Brandy had a Pitocin induction (used to stimulate contractions), but it was incredibly smooth. “I remember Deb encouraging me to stay active, using the birthing ball, and moving around,” Brandy said. “At one point, the student nurse and my husband were pressed up against the wall, their eyes wide open when I was in the middle of transitioning.” Transition is the third phase of labor when the cervix dilates from 8 to 10 centimeters.

Contractions are very strong and occur every few minutes. Brandy reassured them with a smile, and said, “This is normal. I’m just moving along quickly.”

Brandy’s first daughter was sunny-side up, so she had to do a lot of position changes to get the baby to move down to the correct position. At this time, Brandy opted for an epidural. “Let’s face it, you never know what it’s going to feel like until you’re in the thick of it,” Brandy said.

Thankfully, Deb knew exactly what to do. With Brandy’s permission, she turned off the epidural so that Brandy was able to stand, squat, and try different positions like hands and knees and sideline pushing. Brandy pushed for 2 hours and 45 minutes. It was long and hard she remembers, but it was exactly what she wanted.

16

BOONE HEALTH

Spring 2025

With her first delivery, Brandy was so happy with her team, especially Deb and Jennifer Roelands, MD, who were right there with her. Brandy’s mom and aunt were in the room too, making it a really special experience. Brandy and Levi didn’t find out the gender ahead of time, so Levi rushed out to announce to the family in the waiting room that it was a girl. She was named Addison Leaona after Brandy’s grandma, which made the moment even more emotional.

For Brandy’s second pregnancy, they again chose not to find out the gender.

This baby decided to stay in the womb until 41 weeks, but Deb was able to rearrange her schedule to be there for the birth. The induction went much quicker than the first. Brandy’s family had taken Addison to lunch, and Brandy texted them saying, “I’m complete, but it’ll be a while. Enjoy your lunch, then come to the hospital.” About five minutes later, their second daughter, Lyla was born. Lyla came so quickly her face was bruised, but it was a beautiful birth experience, and everything went smoothly.

Brandy’s third child, Genevieve, wasn’t due until March, but she decided to make her entrance early. This time, Brandy started laboring while she was at work. She was able to finish her shift with just some minor discomfort. The next day, when Brandy came in, the floor was packed with patients, and Brandy’s manager’s daughter was also in labor that day. Brandy joked, “If I’m in labor, then I’m bringing my own nurse,” and sure enough, Deb drove in from Moberly on her day off to be there for the delivery.

Again, things went incredibly quickly.

An epidural wasn’t used this time, and Brandy had the amazing experience of using a wireless fetal monitor, which allowed her to move around freely while still being monitored. Genevieve was born at 12:30 on February 15, which was a fun coincidence. Brandy had a baby on the 13th and 15th, but not on her favorite aunt’s birthday on Valentine’s Day. Levi had been nervous about Brandy going without an epidural, but he was so supportive afterward. Levi said, “I’m so glad you got to do it like that. You did amazing.”

Some of Brandy’s nurse friends popped in and took pictures during the delivery so Levi could be hands-free. “We often joke about our minor in photography, helping to capture special moments for families,” Brandy said. “And it was so nice to have those pictures to look back on. Now, my littlest loves to look at the pictures of her birth and remember how Deb helped her two sisters give her her first bath.”

Having an amazing birth team made all the difference. Brandy was able to get everything she wanted from each of her births, and it’s something she’ll always cherish.

“People sometimes ask if it’s weird to give birth at the hospital where I work, surrounded by people I see every day,” Brandy said. “But honestly, I always feel like a VIP. Whenever one of us has a baby, the whole team celebrates. It’s such a special bond when you’re surrounded by people who genuinely care about you.”

By Erin Wegner

“But honestly, I always feel like a VIP. Whenever one of us has a baby, the whole team celebrates.

It’s such a special bond when you’re surrounded by people who genuinely care about you.”

Boone.Health/My-Boone-Health

17

BOONE BABY LEGACY

O

n Christmas Eve 1921, a touring car braved sharp winds, below-freezing temperatures, and a steep gravel road, slick with snow, to carry a married couple to the newly opened Boone County Hospital, where their family doctor awaited them.

Two weeks after its grand opening, the hospital was still under construction; one end of the delivery room was walled off with a tarp. But this didn’t deter the new parents or the nurses who helped their doctor deliver their first-born son – and the first Boone Baby.

103 years and over 100,000 babies later, Boone Health retains its reputation as “the baby hospital.” While the origin of the expression remains a mystery, Boone Babies have been a tradition of compassionate care for growing families for over a century.

The history of the Boone Baby reflects the history of childbirth in America. In 1900, only 5% of births in the United States occurred in hospitals. By December 1921, that number had jumped to over 30% as public perception of hospitals evolved with advancements in medical knowledge, including infection prevention, vaccines, insulin, and vitamins. In the late 1930s, antibiotics entered widespread use in hospitals. As hospital birth became safer for mothers and babies, the option grew more appealing.

At the end of World War II in 1945, the nation experienced a “baby boom” that would last for over a decade – and these new mothers opted for hospital births. In 1939, 50% of U.S. births occurred in a hospital setting. By 1950, that number had jumped to 88%. Hospitals struggled with a shortage of beds, especially for birthing mothers. In 1947, in response to increasing concerns from community members, doctors, nurses, and local officials, the county held a special election to vote on a bond issue to expand Boone County Hospital’s facilities with a wing that would include a dedicated maternity ward. When the measure failed to pass, community fundraising efforts paid for construction of a new hospital wing, which opened in 1954.

Boone’s new 35-bed maternity ward quickly filled, as the hospital saw a record-breaking 790 births in 1955. A photo feature in the February 10, 1956, Missourian showed Boone nurses tending to babies in bumper-to-bumper bassinets and a “closet-like” incubator room. On Dec. 1, 1959, expectant mothers were moved to a larger unit with a delivery room in the hospital’s new wing – and just in time. By 1960, the percentage of hospital births rose to 97%.

While space was sometimes limited, Boone County Hospital always had capacity to provide exceptional care to mothers and babies and to offer something extra. The Pink Ladies Auxiliary, the hospital’s volunteer and fundraising group, offered books and took photographs of newborn babies for proud parents. In the early 1960s, a “Stork Club” menu offered new mothers a special meal after giving birth. Menu options included filet mignon, lamb chops, baked potatoes, and strawberry shortcake.

Childbirth was transformed in the mid-20th century by medical advances but also by social shifts. Pregnancy and childbirth were once considered taboo discussion topics, but new suburban communities brought together young women who shared their experiences.

Expectant mothers were now encouraged to receive prenatal care and learn about childbirth,

18

BOONE HEALTH

Spring 2025

From top, left to right: • In the ‘60s, the hospital’s Pink Ladies Auxiliary offered mothers books and baby photos.

• To help parents provide a safer sleeping environment, the Foundation gave each newborn a sleep sack.

• In 2012, the Eastman quadruplets were featured on the cover of My Boone Health.

breastfeeding, and infant care before their babies arrived. Organizations like La Leche League and Lamaze International offered resources to help mothers feel more confident with breastfeeding and childbirth, and chapters quickly grew throughout the U.S. In the 1960s, Boone County Hospital partnered with the Boone County Association for Mental Health to offer childbirth education sessions that concluded with a tour of the maternity ward. Today, the hospital offers Family Life Education courses to support new and growing families.

Feminist movements had also prompted dialogues about women’s healthcare, which included making childbirth feel less “medicalized.” While hospitals provided a safer environment for mother and baby, the experience could be difficult or upsetting.

In the ‘60s and ‘70s, a growing number of female nurse leaders and obstetricians advocated for family-centered maternal and baby care.

Boone County Hospital reflected these changing attitudes. In 1972, fathers were now welcome in the delivery room if they took a childbirth class to prepare. In March 1974, local writer Kerry Kohler shared how it felt to witness his child’s birth: “There’s no way for [people] to prepare you for the incredible thrill of being there and seeing your child born and helping your wife through an admittedly painful time.”

In 1974, the hospital allowed newborns to sleep in their mothers’ postpartum room for half the day. Fathers were welcome to visit and care for the baby. The first parents to participate in the program already had two Boone babies, but noted this experience felt different. The mother added, “This is much better for mother, father, and child. It brings the family together, right from the start.”

Birthing rooms provided a more comfortable and restful environment. In 1981, Boone Hospital Center added four birthing suites that Labor & Delivery nurse Sue Rodgers said “[blended] a homelike atmosphere with the clinical capabilities and safety of the hospital.” The suite would later become the standard, with private birthing and postpartum rooms featuring artwork, adjustable lighting, and sofas for fathers, grandparents, and siblings.

In 1996, Boone Hospital Center opened

110,000

Boone Babies Since 1921

100,000 90,000 80,000 70,000 60,000 50,000 40,000 30,000 20,000 10,000 0 1921: 1

1922: 52

1937: 1,000

1952: 3,512

a Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, or NICU, to meet the growing need in mid-Missouri for care for preterm, low-weight and critically ill babies. The program also helps parents learn how to care for their infant’s special needs. In its first 20 years, our NICU has cared for over 6,000 babies –– some of whom now have their own Boone Babies.

Retired neonatologist Timothy O’Connor, MD, who led the NICU project, said in 2016, that when it comes to improving childbirth, compassionate care for babies and families really makes the difference: “Numerous additions to ventilator technology have improved outcomes, but still, it’s basic excellent nursing and patient care and attention to detail that creates good outcomes.”

1969: 16,993

1996: 50,492

2005: 66,827

2015: 87,393

2024: 101,168

Excellent family care is why people from mid-Missouri call themselves or their children – or grandchildren – Boone Babies. The emphasis on compassionate, patient-centered care isn’t unique to our maternal child health services department; they’re members of a family whose mission is to improve the health of mid-Missouri. Boone Health’s love for our patients and community is reflected in their pride at choosing us to care for their family. By Jessica Park

To learn more about having a Boone Baby, please visit www.boone. health/baby Boone.Health/My-Boone-Health

19

BRIN GIN G UP BOO N E BABIES

6

Realistic Expectations for Brand-New Parents

Every new parent has questions about how they can best care for their baby. While each family is different, parents often share the same questions and concerns. Having realistic expectations for you and your baby will help you feel more confident whenever caring for an infant presents challenges – and let you enjoy time with your baby!

BY EMILY NUSBAUM, RN, IBCLC

20

BOONE HEALTH

Spring 2025

One

Fou r

Breastfeeding takes a lot of time.

Breastfed babies need to eat 8 to 12 (or more) times in 24 hours. On average, a feeding takes 30 to 45 minutes in the first few weeks. With time, breastfeeding will usually go faster. Much of your time and energy will be spent learning how to breastfeed as well as breastfeeding.

Visitors to your postpartum suite can be nice, but sometimes they can interfere with important things like learning to breastfeed or getting rest. If possible, limit postpartum visitors to short 30-minute periods or only at specific times like 10-11 am or 6-7 pm. It is also okay to ask them to wait to visit you and the baby after you return home.

Two

Five

Expect to spend a lot of time breastfeeding.

Expect it to take a few weeks to learn how to breastfeed well.

It takes several weeks for mom and baby to learn how to breastfeed well. It is normal and expected to have some good feedings and some not-so-good feedings during your first several days and weeks of breastfeeding. Do not judge your ability or your baby’s ability to breastfeed based on one feeding. Be patient with yourself and your baby as you are learning this new skill. Get help from our lactation consultant if you need it. They can be reached at 573.815.6290.

Three

Expect crying.

Babies cry. Some babies cry a lot, and some cry a little. Either way, crying is normal and okay. It is the way your baby communicates with you. It does not necessarily mean something is terribly wrong. It is always appropriate to respond to the cry, but the goal is not to eliminate crying. Sometimes you can anticipate what they need before they cry and sometimes you cannot.

Expect to manage visitors.

Expect to make mistakes.

No one is a perfect parent, breast feeder or diaper changer. Be kind to yourself, your partner, and your baby.

It is okay and normal to not know everything. There is a lot to learn!

Learn what you can and always be open to learning more.

Six

Expect to need help.

You will benefit from help in the hospital as well as at home. While you are in the hospital the Boone Family Birthplace’s staff are knowledgeable, and we want to help. We are happy to answer your questions, and we do not expect you to know everything. You may get a different answer to your question from every person you ask, which means there might be more than one way to do something! At home get help with household chores and meals as you will be spending much of your time learning how to care for your baby.

Bringing Up Boone Babies is a monthly support group provided by Boone Family Birthplace.

We meet on the first Wednesday of each month at 10 a.m. at Boone Hospital Center.

Each hour-long session is led by a Boone Family Birthplace nurse and includes a short presentation on a different topic, followed by open group discussion.

This support group is free and open to all parents of newborns, infants, and toddlers – and you’re welcome to bring your baby with you!

No registration is required.

For a list of upcoming dates and information on how to join our Bringing Up Boone Babies Facebook group, visit boone.health/bringingup-boone-babies Boone.Health/My-Boone-Health

21

GETTING TO KNOW A BHC DOCTOR

Michelle Merrihew, DO Neonatology, Boone Hospital NICU

I

grew up in Southern California. I moved to Missouri for medical school and then completed my residency in pediatrics and fellowship in neonatal-perinatal medicine at Children’s Mercy Hospital.

Why did you get into the health care field?

When I went to college, I was undecided what I wanted to do with my life. I thought about teaching and law.

Towards the end of college, I had one last biology class.

There was a physician guest speaker who inspired me to enter healthcare. I remember sitting there and thinking, “I could see myself in that job.” I earned my degree and completed all the prerequisites for medical school as a post-baccalaureate. My grandfather was a chiropractor.

He was so thrilled when I chose to become an osteopathic physician. I remember him telling me I would have so many opportunities to help people.

What interested you in your particular specialty? During my medical school rotations, I enjoyed all aspects of medicine. Every doctor has a chance to advocate for the care of their patients. When I was on my OB rotation, I delivered a few babies. I thought, “Wow, this is amazing.” However, I found myself gravitating toward the newborn. After my OB rotation, I went on to my pediatrics rotation. I knew for sure then I wanted to do Pediatrics.

I completed my pediatrics residency and was not sure which specialty or if I should do general pediatrics. I worked in the NICU at Children’s Mercy and knew I had found my place in medicine.

What is the most rewarding part of your job? The best part of my job is the day we discharge a baby to go home with their family to have a long, fulfilling life. The most important thing the NICU team does outside of caring for babies is to support families.

Families experience stress and grief over having an infant – or two – in the hospital. They need to know we care. Everyone on the Boone team loves taking care of babies, and we love getting them home to their families as soon as we can.

What is the most challenging aspect of your job? It’s extremely difficult to see all the agony that parents experience when separated from their infants.

What do you see changing in health care in the next 5 to 10 years? The biggest challenges lie with nursing. It takes

22

BOONE HEALTH

Spring 2025

years for nurses to learn their skills. Ever since Covid, we have not had as many young people interested in nursing.

What advice would you give someone looking to become a doctor? Wow, I just did this for my nephew who entered medical school. It is a long ride but well worth it. Study hard and take breaks when you can. Never stop caring or become indifferent to the well-being of others and avoid sarcasm. Also, allow yourself to be human. I have cried in the bathroom or linen closet many times over the years. Always connect with your patients and families. People need to know how much we care for them.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work? I enjoy spending time with my family.

What advice would you give to someone who is going to be a patient in a hospital for a period of time? Allow yourself to experience whatever emotions you are having. It is okay to be frustrated, depressed and angry. It is all part of the grieving process when you are experiencing a health crisis.

Reach out to friends and family or professionals to help you.

PELVIC FLOOR THERAPY What is Pelvic Floor Therapy?

Pelvic floor therapy is a special rehabilitation that lessens the symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction.

Pelvic floor muscles sit inside the pelvis and support your internal organs, assist proper bowel and bladder function, contribute to sexual function, and support healthy movement of your hips and core.

Men and women both can suffer from symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction. Boone’s pelvic floor physical and occupational therapists will use proven techniques to get you back to doing the activities you love.

For more information, or to find out if Pelvic Floor Therapy is right for you, check us out on the web! boone.health/pelvic-floor-therapy Boone.Health/My-Boone-Health

23

GETTING TO KNOW A BHC NURSE

Cindy Bracht, ADN, RN Labor and Delivery

I

grew up on a small cattle farm in Tipton, Mo., home of the Cardinals, the 5 & 50 Drive-In and the eightball water tower. My summers included giving swim lessons, lifeguarding and sports. After high school, I worked for a local dentist then an oral surgeon who I assisted in surgeries performed at Boone. The physicians I worked for and my family encouraged me to further my education, so I started night school at Columbia College. I graduated from MACC with my associate degree in 1990. My husband Ron, who is a physical therapist, and I moved to Mexico, Mo. and worked at Audrain Medical Center until 1997. I joined Boone Hospital Center after my third child was born. Ron and I live on a farm in Audrain County where we raise meat chickens and South Poll cattle. I have three adult children and two grandsons. I’m a grand-nurse – years ago, I helped deliver the women whose babies I deliver today. Who knows, maybe one day I’ll be a great-grand-nurse!

Why did you get into the health care field? I like helping others during challenging times. My favorite part of maternal health nursing is educating patients and families about the labor process, monitors, medications, and how the body changes; and encouraging and supporting patients during labor and the postpartum period.

What interested you in your particular specialty?

I enjoy the challenge of interpreting the external monitor strips, interventions that will improve the readings, educating parents on newborn physical assessments and assisting with feedings.

What is the most rewarding part of your job? When patients and families are grateful for your help. Patients just need guidance and encouragement. I tell them, “You are so strong, and you’ve got this!” Getting a hug after the delivery is great, notes and cards in the mail affirm your career choice, and a little chocolate never hurts!

What is the most challenging aspect of your job? It can be mentally, physically, and emotionally tiring. We work 12-hour shifts and always need to stay alert and be ready for emergencies.

What has changed in your field since you started practicing? We have advanced from paper charting to electronic charting. Advanced monitoring systems let us continuously monitor every patient on the floor. We have safety guidelines with medications, devices, and protocols for unit-specific emergencies. But nothing will ever replace the encouragement

24

BOONE HEALTH

Spring 2025

of your voice, the touch of your hand, sitting with your patient, listening and being their advocate. That will never change.

What do you see changing in the next 5 to 10 years? Continued advancement in monitoring systems for fetal surveillance will assure fetal well-being. Hopefully, some advancements in AI can improve maternal health by helping us predict complications before they arise.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work? Outside of work I enjoy getting together with my book club, going to the Lake of the Ozarks, baking cookies with my two grandsons, and watching the Chiefs. I like mowing with my John Deere while listening to country music on my headphones. I volunteer at the American Red Cross Blood Drive. I attend St. Brendan Catholic Church. And once in a while, I assist my husband when one of our cows delivers a calf.

What advice would you give someone looking to become a nurse? Boone Health has a program where potential employees can shadow a nurse, which is a good way to see what nurses do. Embrace learning on a daily basis – nursing is constantly changing with new procedures, protocols, evidence-based practices, and computer systems. While patient care always comes first, we nurses can sometimes forget to take care of ourselves. Nursing is a physically and mentally challenging career, so we need to maintain a healthy lifestyle. On your days off, enjoy family time and dive into hobbies you enjoy.

Get to the heart of your story.

Our direct-entry nursing program is a partnership with Boone Health, offering early access to a broad range of clinical experiences, individualized attention, and a one-step admission process.

Start your nursing career at Stephens College.

NH 2/31/25

SMOOTHIE RECIPES

Strawberry and Banana Lactation Smoothie 26

BOONE HEALTH

Spring 2025

INGREDIENTS

DIRECTIONS

• ¼ cup oatmeal

1. Put all the ingredients in a mixer or blender and blend into a smooth-flowing liquid

• ½ cup frozen strawberries • ½ cup skimmed milk • 1 frozen banana • 1 Tbsp honey • 1 Tbsp ground flaxseed

2. Pour into a serving glass and enjoy!

Recipe courtesy of momjunction.com

Berrylicious Smoothie INGREDIENTS • 2 cups fresh spinach • 1 cup frozen, unsweetened strawberries • 1 cup fat-free milk • 1 banana (chopped) • ½ cup blueberries • ½ kiwi (sliced) DIRECTIONS 1. Put all the ingredients in a blender and blend until you have a smooth, lump-free liquid.

2. You can add some water to adjust the recipe’s consistency if needed.

3. Pour into a serving glass and enjoy!

Recipe courtesy of momjunction.com

Boone.Health/My-Boone-Health

27

Staying Fit While Pregnant P

regnancy is an exciting and challenging time for the body.

Exercise is not only safe during pregnancy, but can help support a healthier, pain free journey! Generally, it is safe to perform the same level of exercise you were performing prior to pregnancy. Exercising for a total of 150 minutes over at least 3 days reduces the likelihood of pregnancy complications.

A variety of aerobic exercise, strength training, yoga, and stretching is helpful.

Each phase of pregnancy presents its own unique strengths and challenges.

During the first trimester, if you are limited by fatigue or nausea, you may need to focus on activities like walking, yoga, and gentle strengthening.

During the second trimester, you may feel more energy and may be able to progress to higher levels of strengthening to support your growing body. During the third trimester, you can continue to do any exercises that feel safe and comfortable to your body.

Throughout your whole journey, there are a few things you should keep in mind to protect your core. During any abdominal exercise, perform a core draw-in prior to movement. Imagine using your abdominal muscles to draw your baby bump in and up towards the back of your ribcage. You should feel a gentle tension across the front of your lower abdomen. Avoid breath holding or bearing down at any point.

You may need to modify core exercises as your pregnancy progresses - to protect against the development of diastasis recti, monitor for “doming.” Watch your belly or gently rest your hand on your abdomen as you exercise. If the center of your abdomen comes to a tent-like peak, the exercise is too difficult, and you should modify this exercise.

Exercise may serve a key role in helping you have a happy and healthy pregnancy. Most importantly, find what you enjoy and give it a try!

28

BOONE HEALTH

Spring 2025

EXERCISE 2

EXERCISE 1

Squats • Stand with feet about shoulder width apart • Lower yourself by bending your hips and knees. Your motion should involve hinging your hips back like you are sitting in a chair behind you rather than bending your knees forward.

Single Leg Deadlifts with a Kickstand • Stand with your weight on one leg.

Hold a dumbbell or kettlebell in your opposite hand. The toe of your other foot may rest on the ground slightly behind your other leg to assist with balance.

• Perform 2 sets of 20 repetitions.

• Slowly hinge your hips behind you to slide the weight down your shins.

Your spine should remain straight.

Your knee will have a soft bend as you hinge but should not drop forward over your toes.

• For added challenge, add a resistance band around your knees.

• Perform 2 sets of 15 repetitions each side.

EXERCISE 3

Standing Weighted Marches • While standing, draw your lower abdominal muscles in like you are lifting your baby bump up and in. With your core braced, raise light to medium weight dumbbells overhead.

• As you exhale, lift one knee to hip height. Focus on maintaining core activation and balance. Inhale as you return your foot to the floor. Repeat on the opposite leg.

• Perform 2 sets of 20 repetitions - 10 each side.

EXERCISE 4

Side Plank on Knees • Begin on your side with your elbow propped up directly under your shoulder. Bend both knees to a comfortable position.

• Draw in your lower abdominals like you are lifting your baby bump up and in. As you exhale, lift your hips off the ground. Hold as long as you can maintain core activation and still breath. A good starting goal may be 10-15 seconds.

• Perform 5 sets of 15 second holds.

EXERCISE 5

Bird Dog • Start on your hands and knees.

Draw in your lower abdominals like you are pulling your baby bump up and in.

• As you exhale, reach your opposite arm and leg out. Your goal is to maintain core activation and avoid arching your back. Inhale as you return and repeat on the other side.

• Perform 2 sets of 10 repetitions each side.

EXERCISE 6

Pallof Press • Tie a resistance band to a pole or anchor directly to your side (you may tie it in a knot and shut the knot on the other side of a door at chest height). Hold the band to your chest and step away from the anchor until you feel firm resistance.

• Draw your lower abdominals in. As you exhale, press your arms straight forward. Do not let yourself get pulled to the side by the band. Inhale as you return, keeping core active.

• Perform 2 sets of 20 repetitions.

By Beth Frazier, PT Boone.Health/My-Boone-Health

29

FOUNDATION NEWS

Cheers to an Impactful 2025: Strengthening Maternal and Child Health at Boone Hospital

A

t the Boone Hospital Foundation, we are honored to have the opportunity to support nearly every department at Boone Health. From ongoing projects to one-time requests, our mission is clear: to enhance the health and well-being of our patients and caregivers. As we reflect on the legacy of our Boone Babies and focus on maternal and child health, we’re excited to highlight the many ways the Foundation partners with Boone Health to improve patient experiences, particularly in Labor & Delivery, Therapy Services, and the Maternal-Child Health Unit.

Supporting Expecting Mothers: Fit for Delivery In late spring of 2024, the Boone Hospital Foundation proudly partnered with Therapy Services to launch an innovative new program called Fit for Delivery. This course aims to provide expecting mothers with comprehensive education on maintaining a healthy pregnancy, preparing for childbirth, and navigating the postpartum period.

Delivered by Boone’s team of highly specialized pelvic floor therapists, dietitians, and lactation consultants, the program has proven incredibly popular among participants, empowering them with the tools and knowledge they need for a positive pregnancy experience.

A Comfortable Space for Bonding: The NICU/Nursery Lactation Room In the fall of 2024, the Foundation had the pleasure of helping to update the lactation room in the NICU/Nursery area. While it may seem like a small change, the difference it has made is profound. A fresh coat of paint, vibrant artwork, and new, comfortable furniture have transformed this room into a warm and welcoming space where new mothers can bond with their Boone Babies during feeding times. It’s these thoughtful touches that enhance the

30

BOONE HEALTH

Spring 2025

experience for both mothers and their precious newborns, helping them feel supported during a time of transition.

Healing Touch: Antepartum Massage Program The Foundation has long supported the Antepartum Massage Program, which provides massage therapy for expectant mothers facing high-risk pregnancies.

These women are often required to stay at Boone for inpatient monitoring before delivery, and this program offers them a therapeutic and comforting experience.

For those who are medically cleared, receiving a massage can help alleviate some of the physical and emotional stress of pregnancy, promoting relaxation and overall well-being during a challenging time.

A Cozy Welcome: The Boone Baby Swaddle If you’ve ever seen an image of a Boone Baby, it’s likely that they’re wrapped in a Boone Hospital Foundation swaddle.

These swaddles are more than just a cozy comfort for newborns—they represent the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to making each patient’s experience at Boone Hospital as positive as possible.

Along with the swaddle, new parents receive helpful information about how to care for their newborns as they transition from the hospital to home.

Investing in Staff, Investing in Outcomes At Boone Hospital Foundation, we understand that investing in our staff’s education and professional development is key to improving patient care. That’s why we support Boone’s caregivers in their pursuit of additional training and certifications. Whether it’s providing funding for Labor & Delivery nurses, physical therapists, or nursing leaders to enhance their knowledge, the Foundation is proud to play a role

in helping our caregivers achieve their goals. We know that when our staff is equipped with the latest knowledge and skills, the outcomes for our patients will be even better.

A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Donors As we look ahead to 2025, we are grateful for the continued support from our generous donors. Your contributions make it possible for the Boone Hospital Foundation to fund these impactful programs and initiatives, ensuring that Boone Health remains a place where patients and their families can receive compassionate, high-quality care.

Together, we are creating a legacy of health and hope for generations to come. Thank you for being a part of this journey with us. Here’s to a bright and impactful 2025!

If you are interesting in making a gift to support these efforts, please visit: boone.health/foundation, or use the QR code below to make a gift today.

In health and wellness, Monica Watkins Collins Executive Director

Boone Hospital Foundation Upcoming Events The community is invited and welcome to our Hospital Lobby sales (Linen and Scrubs on Site).

4/15 – 4/16

Scrubs on Site Sale

2025 Boone Hospital Foundation Board of Directors

Hospital Lobby

5/5

22nd Annual BHF Charity Golf Classic The Club at Old Hawthorne

Officers

Directors

Arlene Heins President

Dr. Mark Adams Director

6/18 – 6/19

John Franken Vice President

Dawn Daly Director

Hospital Lobby

Drew Wilkinson Treasurer

Stephanie Goans Director

Valerie Ninichuck Secretary

Patricia Hostetler Director

Dr. James Roller Past President

Dr. Angela Hull Director

Boone Representatives

Erica Pefferman Director

Jan Beckett Boone Board of Directors

John Pile Director

Vacant Boone Board of Directors

Jolene Schulz Director

Linen Sale

8/23 • 3-7pm

Code Boone: BHF Signature Event Cooper’s Ridge Event Venue

For more information on these events, please visit our website at Boone.health/foundation or call our office at 573-815-2800.

Boone.Health/My-Boone-Health

31

Boone Hospital Center 1600 East Broadway Columbia, MO 65201 573-815-8000

Non-profit Organization PRSRT STD Us Postage Paid COLUMBIA, MO PERMIT 1600

COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT Saturday, May 10 • 8 AM -12 PM

For more information or to purchase tickets online, visit the Mid-MO Baby Expo website at midmobabyexpo.com For more information about childbirth at Boone Health, visit Boone.Health