2023 Riverside Foundation Fall Newsletter

Fall 2023

Remarkable N E W S A N D S T O R I E S F R O M T H E R I V E R S I D E F O U N D AT I O N

FROM THE CHIEF PHILANTHROPY OFFICER When you or your loved one receives a lifealtering diagnosis, navigating the next hours, days and months can be overwhelming. While advances in treatment and technology are incredibly encouraging and provide hope for recovery and healing, the journey can be daunting.

At Riverside, we want to be there for our patients and their families every step of the way and have deeply invested in patient navigators who serve as a personal link to the system. When a patient’s life has been turned upside down from a serious diagnosis, navigators step in to provide guidance all the way through post-treatment.

As you will read about in this newsletter, navigators close the gap between what insurance covers and what our patients need and deserve. It’s a classic example of how charitable support can impact health care delivery in a very meaningful way.

Riverside’s investment in navigators has been substantially backed by donors, some of whom know firsthand how difficult it is to determine what next step is appropriate in a care journey. We are humbled to tell you these stories.

Thank you for taking a moment to read this Remarkable newsletter.

Your compassionate support of our patients is proof positive that Riverside’s mission – to care for others as we would care for those we love - is a universal guiding light.

With gratitude,

Kristen Beam Witt, M.S.

Riverside Foundation

What’s Inside: • Cancer Navigators Simplify What is Complex page 2 • First Hand Account page 3 • Memory Care Navigators Lighten the Burden of Dementia page 4 • Celebrating the Fearless Caregiver Conference page 5 • Legacy Building page 6 • Senior Care Navigators Help Seniors Live Their Best Lives page 7 • Impact By the Numbers page 8

Helping You Find Your Way

Cancer Navigators Simplify What Is Complex Receiving a cancer diagnosis is overwhelming. Emotions run high.

Learning about the disease and next steps is like drinking from a fire hose.

And there are so many questions.

Which surgery or treatment is appropriate? Are clinical trials available and appropriate? What does each option look like? In what order do decisions have to be made?

to make them, two lives were at risk. In order to keep the patient’s treatment on track and allow the patient to keep caring for his wife, the Foundation tapped into donor funding to pay for car repairs. His gratitude was deeply felt.

transportation. Relying on family and friends can sometimes fail, especially for radiation therapy patients who are treated five days a week for weeks at a time. Treatment side effects can make some patients just feel too tired and shaky to get Navigator Laura Browder used behind the wheel. In any of these patient assistance funding to help a circumstances, donated patient cancer patient escape a verbally and assistance funds can mean the between successful physically abusive alcoholic family difference treatment and overwhelming member by paying for a hotel room for three nights while the patient obstacles. finished treatment and found a new In addition to their direct work place to live. Donated funds also with individual patients, navigators provided gift cards to purchase food orchestrate community outreach and clothing to replace what she left efforts to increase awareness of behind when she fled. cancer signs and symptoms as well Navigator Francie Verniel has as screenings to help people find requested patient assistance funds cancer early or have the peace of for one-time needs such as rent, mind that no cancer was detected.

Years ago, Riverside was one of the first health systems in the nation to add patient navigators to the cancer care team. These advocates, educators and all-around problem solvers support patients through a complex and difficult disease process. While every patient is unique in how and when their disease presents, these expert guides know the twists and turns that are ahead and can make the process utilities or medications not covered easier to understand and manage. by insurance when a patient’s income From the moment of diagnosis, is interrupted due to treatment. navigators are proactive in offering Patients who do not have phones support and guidance as well as are at increased risk of missing removing any barriers to treatment. appointments or communications Each navigator specializes in one with the care team, and this primary disease site including lung, could jeopardize their treatment breast, colorectal/digestive, prostate outcomes. Using patient assistance and head/neck cancers. funds to buy a pre-paid phone At a time when vulnerable patients are being bombarded with information, decisions and stress, Riverside’s navigators have a secret weapon: donated patient assistance funds that the navigators can access to break through barriers to care and improve outcomes.

for the duration of the patient’s treatment can make the difference between success and failure.

The Foundation once even bought a dorm-sized refrigerator for a patient in active chemotherapy when their home refrigerator stopped working.

This gave them continued access to Navigator Mary Cleckler described the fresh food that would provide a patient who was a caregiver to his healthy nutrition through treatment. wife with dementia while he was Transportation is a common barrier being treated for cancer. When to care in every one of Riverside’s his car needed repairs, and he had markets.

Patients might not neither the time nor the resources have a vehicle or access to public RIVERSIDE FOUNDATION | FALL 2023

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Cancer Care Navigators

Renea Acree MBA, MSN, RN Head and Neck Cancer Program 757-534-5975

Laura Browder BSN, RN, OCN GI Cancer Program 757-534-5195 Mary Cleckler BS, RN, OCN Prostate Cancer Program 757-534-5196

Elizabeth Jenkins BSN, RN, OCN Breast Cancer Program 757-708-1065

Christine Johnson BSN, RN, OCN Gloucester Cancer Program 804-791-3298 Francie Verniel BS, RN, OCN Lung Cancer Program 757-298-0704

riversideonline.com/cancercare

First Hand Account

“I Am Here for Your 1:00am Questions” or how to best care for herself during this trying time, the nurse navigator was there, connecting her with a nutritionist who tailored a diet to support her health and well-being.

This experience highlighted for me the vital role that nurse navigators play in the lives of cancer patients and their families. They bridge the gap between medical expertise and the emotional needs of those facing this daunting journey. It’s not just about answering medical questions; it’s about offering empathy, a listening ear, and a reassuring presence when uncertainty looms large.

Her presence made an incredible difference in my mom’s journey towards recovery and remission.

My mom had her final radiation treatment on July 2022. After she rang the bell, the first thing she did was turn around, look at her care team, and say “thank you.” That gratitude was just as much a part of our family’s healing as the medication, surgery and technology.

“In the fall of 2022, my family’s world was shaken when my mom went in for a routine mammogram.

That moment, etched in our memories, marked the beginning of an unexpected journey into the unknown.

The words “we think we saw something” loomed large, and the floodgates of emotion, questions and uncertainty opened.

Resources like these navigators are made possible through the charitable support of organizations like the Riverside Foundation. They ensure that individuals facing cancer can receive the care and guidance they desperately need and Riverside’s mission – to care for When my mom went for her final appointment to others as we would care for those we love, requires.” confirm our worst fears – that it was indeed breast cancer – she noticed there were two people in the room. One: -Ryan King, son of patient April King the radiologist who made the “good catch” on one view of one scan. Two: a warm and understanding individual who would become an unexpected source of comfort and guidance: a nurse navigator. This compassionate and knowledgeable professional became a guiding light, helping us navigate the often bewildering and complex terrain of a cancer journey.

The nurse navigator, whose warm and reassuring presence was a constant source of solace for my mom, made sure that no question went unanswered. She explained her role in a simple but profound way, telling my mom “I am here for that question you think of when you’re laying awake at one in the morning.” She held our hands through the labyrinth of appointments, medical jargon, and treatment options. But her support went beyond that. When my mom was unsure of what to eat RIVERSIDE FOUNDATION | FALL 2023

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Leading the Way

Memory Care Navigators Lighten the Burden of Dementia It can be daunting and painful to watch a loved one experience memory lapses, behavioral changes and the cognitive and functional decline that comes with a dementia diagnosis.

For both the patient and their loved ones, Riverside offers memory care navigation to help make the journey less frightening.

Two generous long-time Foundation supporters made transformational gifts to memory care navigation after their personal experiences showed them how critical navigation support can be. Steve and Grace Spain along with the Spain Family provided funding in memory of George T. Spain so that Riverside could offer the first memory care navigator. A year later, G. Royden Goodson III made the Foundation’s largest ever individual donation in honor of his wife, Martha W. Goodson. Royden’s gift provided funding for many memory care services including a second navigator to manage the everexpanding need and to continue to grow the service.

therefore reduce fear of dementia.

People don’t want to talk about it, but getting information out there helps to make communities more aware of resources.”

The navigators offer specialized support for each patient and/or family member. Support can be offered inperson, virtually or by telephone, and includes •responding to needs, questions and concerns, •developing action steps to address needs, •creating a customized plan of education and resources, •coordinating referrals to community agencies for needed services, and •fielding requests for support for as long as the patient or family needs help.

Navigator Taylor Lee says, “We usually hear a huge sigh of relief when we tell patients or their families that we can help them throughout the entire process.”

Plans for the near future include These two visionary gifts have already having memory care navigators begun to change the landscape of available at the time of diagnosis memory care services in southeastern in the neurology practice as well as Virginia. In addition to the individual onsite at a community clinic. attention and support they give to patients and their loved ones, the Donors have made this personalized donor-funded navigators partner service available to anyone in with community groups, churches, southeastern Virginia who needs aging agencies and advocate groups help. The patient does not have to to present education on how to use Riverside’s services to contact the communicate with someone with navigators. Whether a patient or their dementia, warning signs to look for, family needs one-time, occasional or how to improve brain health and more. frequent guidance, the navigators are ready to tailor their support to unique Navigator Amanda Gada says, “We needs as they arise. want to increase awareness and RIVERSIDE FOUNDATION | FALL 2023

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Messages from Grateful Patients

‘"I cannot thank you enough."

"You are wonderful!

Thank you so much for taking the time to speak with me. I will certainly reach out in the future." ‘"Thank you so much Amanda. I really appreciate all this information. God Bless."

Celebrating the Fearless Caregiver Conference A Gathering of Support and Community

In September, the Martha W. Goodson Center, the Riverside Foundation and the non-profit organizaiton Today’s Caregiver hosted the first annual The Fearless Caregiver Conference.

This remarkable event brought together family caregivers from all across Virginia to learn, to share and to celebrate the invaluable role of those who care for aging loved ones. The conference was made do was become the absolute best possible by a charitable gift from caregiver for her.” the family of the late Jane Cooper.

Jane’s daughter Nathalie Cooper The conference was designed to Rose shared, “No one is prepared, provide support and resources and there is not enough information to family members who care for available to take care of a loved one older adults. This event recognized in need of memory or elder care… the challenges faced by caregivers My family and I hope you walk and aimed to make their journey a away from today breathing a small little easier. The conference was a sigh of relief so that you know that lifeline for those who devote their you are not alone.” time and energy to ensuring the These words set the tone for the well-being of their loved ones. day, emphasizing the importance During the opening remarks, of recognizing and appreciating G. Royden Goodson III, whose caregivers and equipping them leadership funding established with support and resources. the Martha W. Goodson Center, shared with attendees, “When my Jane’s children Marcus, Nathalie wife Martha was going through and Jack, in a generous and heartfelt her [Alzheimer’s diagnosis], I gesture, provided financial support realized the best thing I could to waive conference fees for caregivers. Their support was born

out of their own experiences, as they understood the struggles that come with caregiving. Jane’s legacy lives on through this conference, ensuring that valuable resources are accessible to all caregivers.

The Conference gathered a community of support for the day of the conference and well into the future. Caregivers had the opportunity to engage with community agencies that are dedicated to assisting caregivers of older adults. These agencies offered valuable information and resources, making caregivers’ lives a little less challenging.

One of the highlights of the conference was the educational platform it provided. Caregivers had the chance to have their questions answered and engage with community leaders who are experts in supporting caregivers.

The conference served as a hub of knowledge, where caregivers could access the information they needed to navigate their roles more effectively.

The Fearless Caregiver Conference was a testament to the power of community, generosity and support.

Create a Remarkable Remembrance Including Riverside in your will or bequest is an extraordinary way to create a lasting legacy. We encourage you to join our special group of donors who choose to make a remarkable remembrance.

Your planned gift can honor your family's name, a loved one or a caregiver who made a remarkable difference. Including Riverside in your will allows us to recognize you as a member of the Cornerstone Society, and you will receive special recognition and invitations to special events.

If you have already remembered Riverside in your estate plan, please let us know.

Legacy Donor Recognition

The Riverside Health System Cornerstone Society celebrates estate donors through lifetime recognition. These remarkable individuals are acknowledged in our major publications, and invited to major openings and lectures as well as exclusive programs and events.

Those contributing $10,000 or more are honored as members of our Founder's Society. Though we show our appreciation in many ways, there is no honor greater than knowing you have helped secure the health and happiness of your community for years to come.

Together, we can care for others as we would care for those we love.

Learn More

Point your cell phone’s camera at this QR code to go directly to our website:

rivhs.giftlegacy.com

Contact us for more information on planned giving or supporting Riverside at 757-234-8740 or riversidefoundation@rivhs.com. To make a gift today, use the enclosed envelope or use your credit card at riversideonline.com/give.

RIVERSIDE FOUNDATION | FALL 2023

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Expertise for Older Adults

Senior Care Navigators Help Seniors Live Their Best Lives Most older adults want to retain as much independence as possible for as long as possible, but their health can be an obstacle. In the communities served by Riverside, many resources exist to help people to live their best lives on their own terms, but not everyone knows what resources are available in their area. Enter Riverside’s senior care navigators. This team is well-versed in how to find help from organizations and agencies, including Riverside, to give older adults the assistance they need to thrive.

The navigators field calls and emails from residents within and beyond Riverside’s 8,000-squaremile footprint who are 55 years or older or who are caring for someone of that age. The navigators gather resources to help solve the problems that are challenging the older adult or his or her family.

overwhelming for older adults to navigate their health care; we can guide them to resources that might benefit them.”

already had in place, giving her the peace of mind that she was arranging the best possible care for her beloved mother.

Melissa described working with the daughter of an elderly dementia patient. The daughter had recently moved to the area to take care of her mother but did not know how to find the help she needed.

Melissa’s hour-long conversation with the daughter covered finding a primary care provider, getting meals delivered at home to her mother, where to look for housing, and how to get support from the Community Services Board, the Alzheimer’s Association and similar support groups. Melissa was also able to validate the plans that the daughter

The team of senior care navigators works closely with Riverside’s memory care navigators because their patients often have needs in both areas. This coordination across areas of specialty ensure that patients and their caregivers have access to all the resources available in the community and have the best chance of living a healthy and independent life for as long as possible.

The senior care navigation team assists an average of 700 patients a year, making a noticeable impact on quality of life in southeastern Virginia.

Navigator Melissa Tilman says, “it can be

You can help make a difference in the lives of our community members For more information on how to support us, contact the Riverside Foundation at (757) 234-8740 or riversidefoundation@rivhs.com.

RIVERSIDE FOUNDATION | FALL 2023

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Your generosity makes a difference.

FAST FACTS

care navigation interactions 599 Memory in the first six months of 2023

caregivers/patients served by memory 189 New care navigators in the first six months of 2023

patient assistance funds $65,000 Oncology used in the first six months of 2023

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4,600 Massage and music therapy sessions 1,900 Nutrition counseling services provided Patients and loved ones visited 24,000 Cancer with our Nurse Navigators and Educator in 2022