JHN_Healthy Living_111525

Silver Cross named to U.S. News & World

Report’s ‘Best Regional Hospitals’ ranking

New Lenox hospital ranked #20 in Chicago, #21

in Illinois

Silver Cross Hospital has been recognized by U.S. News & World Report as one of the Best Regional Hospitals in metro-Chicago and the State of Illinois in its 2025-26 Best Hospitals ranking.

U.S. News & World Report measures more than 4,000 hospitals nationally across a wide array of specialties and conditions, making this annual ranking one of the most recognized and respected in the U.S.

For 2025-2026, U.S. News & World Report ranked Silver Cross #20 in Chicago and #21 in the entire State of Illinois for achieving exceptional patient outcomes while utilizing the best standards of care, resources and technologies.

Silver Cross was cited for exceptional performance in nine distinct clinical areas, including:

• Heart bypass surgery

• Colon cancer surgery

• Heart attack

• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

• Diabetes

• Hip replacement

• Knee replacement

• Kidney failure and

• Pneumonia

“This accomplishment belongs to our entire Silver Cross Family for delivering exceptional care to every patient, every time,” said Michael Mutterer, RN, MA, LCPC, CADC, LNHA, President and Chief Executive Officer of Silver Cross.

Silver Cross also earned high marks for patient experience with 90% of patients feeling positive about their experience at Silver Cross –

versus the national average of 88% and the Illinois average of 87%. For a complete look at Silver Cross Hospital’s rankings, visit www. health.usnews.com/besthospitals

U.S. News evaluated more than 4,400 hospitals across 15 adult specialties and 22 procedures and conditions for its “Best Hospitals” designation; only one-third of them earned an award. To determine the best hospitals, U.S. News analyzed each hospital’s performance based on objective measures such as risk-adjusted mortality rates, preventable complications and level of nursing care. For the full list of rankings, visit https://health.usnews. com/best-hospitals/area/il/silver-cross-hospital-6432000

Other Awards Silver Cross has Achieved for Clinical Excellence

These recent accolades are in addition to Silver Cross earning straight A’s for Safety from the Leapfrog Group since 2015; for the second year running, a #1 ranking in Illinois for Surgical Care by Healthgrades; and two consecutive 3-Star Ratings from the Society of Thoracic Surgeons for excellence in heart bypass surgery.

In August, Newsweek ranked cardiothoracic surgeon Dr. Pat Pappas as No. 2 in the nation for cardiothoracic surgery.

For more information or to find a provider on the Silver Cross Hospital, visit www.silvercross.org.

Silver Cross Hospital breaks ground on new, expanded Health Center in Lemont

New medical office building will offer primary care physicians, urgent care & more

SSilver Cross Hospital celebrated a major milestone Oct. 15 with the official groundbreaking of a new 20,000-square-foot replacement health center in Lemont, scheduled to open in the fall of 2026.

ilver Cross Hospital celebrated a major milestone Oct. 15 with the official groundbreaking of a new 20,000-square-foot replacement health center in Lemont, scheduled to open in the fall of 2026.

The new $20 million facility will span 20,550 square feet and feature a comprehensive suite of services including Silver Cross Medical Group primary care physicians and advanced practice providers providing care in 22 exam rooms; an urgent care center with five exam rooms and a procedure room; comprehensive imaging, including X-ray, and eventually CT, MRI and ultrasound; and a full-service lab. The development is part of the hospital’s ongoing commitment to provide comprehensive, high-quality care closer to home.

a comprehensive suite of services including Silver Cross Medical Group primary care physicians and advanced practice providers providing care in 22 exam rooms; an urgent care center with five exam rooms and a procedure room; comprehensive imaging, including X-ray, and eventually CT, MRI and ultrasound; and a full-service lab. The development is part of the hospital’s ongoing commitment to provide comprehensive, high-quality care closer to home.

to meet the needs of our residents even better than before,” said Mayor John Egofske. “It’s a great investment in our future.”

About Silver Cross Medical Group

As the region’s leading and most trusted group of primary and specialty care providers,Silver Cross Medical Group has 70+ providers across a dozen locations – from Joliet to Orland Park and many communities in between.

providers,Silver Cross Medical Group has 70+ providers across a dozen locations – from Joliet to Orland Park and many communities in between.

The replacement facility will be built on the site of the existing health center, which will remain operational until construction is completed next fall, and includes design features to enhance patient experience and accessibility like a concierge desk, spacious waiting area and more.

“At Silver Cross, we’re never content with the status quo,” said Michael Mutterer, President and Chief Executive Officer –and a resident of Lemont. “We’re always looking ahead—finding better ways to serve, to heal, and to make a difference. This expansion reflects our commitment

to progress and our belief that every community deserves world-class healthcare close to home.”

He added, “Today’s groundbreaking is a celebration of that vision. It’s a promise to our neighbors that we will continue to grow with you, care for you, and stand by you— every step of the way.”

With Lemont’s population projected to grow significantly by 2030, the new health center is poised to meet increasing demand for outpatient services in a modern, efficient setting.

The project was approved by the Lemont Village Board earlier this year, with strong support from local officials.

“Silver Cross has a long history in Lemont, and we’re excited they’re expanding their services

Backed by nationally ranked Silver Cross Hospital in New Lenox, Silver Cross Medical Group has been serving patients for nearly 40 years in multiple settings throughout the southwest suburbs.

And just like Silver Cross Hospital, Silver Cross Medical Group prioritizes what’s most important to you and your family:

• Personalized care and communication

• Strong, stable relationships built on trust and rapport

• Convenient online scheduling

• Seamless continuity of care, and

• Easy access to an expansive roster of specialists.

For more information, visit www.silvercross.org/scmg.

Silver Cross Hospital broke ground on a new 20,000-square-foot Health Center in Lemont today, which will replace the existing structure.

Choosing the right vein treatment begins with understanding your specific condition and goals. Whether you’re dealing with discomfort from varicose veins or seeking cosmetic improvement for spider veins, the best treatment option will depend on factors such as the severity of the vein issue, your overall health, and your personal preferences.

The first and most important step is scheduling a consultation with a qualified vein specialist, like those at Eterna MedSpa and Laser Vein Center. Through a physical exam and diagnostic tools like ultrasound imaging, our specialists can evaluate the underlying cause of your vein issues. This assessment is critical because visible veins on the surface often stem from deeper venous insufficiency that requires a more comprehensive treatment approach.

Treatment options range from conservative methods like compression stockings and lifestyle changes to minimally invasive procedures such as sclerotherapy, endovenous laser therapy (EVLT) Venaseal, and radiofrequency ablation (RFA). In some cases, a combination of treatments may be recommended for optimal results.

You should also consider your recovery time, pain tolerance, and the cosmetic results you hope to achieve. For example, sclerotherapy is typically ideal for smaller spider veins and has minimal downtime, while EVLT and RFA are better suited for larger varicose veins and may involve a short recovery period. Venaseal is a procedure that uses medical glue to close affected veins. This special glue holds the walls of the veins together, stopping and then redirecting the blood flow to healthy veins. With time, your body will absorb the inactive veins, and they will disappear. Your vein specialist at Eterna can help explain the benefits and limitations of each option, ensuring you make an informed decision.

Ultimately, the right vein treatment addresses both the medical and aesthetic concerns in a way that fits your lifestyle and health goals. Open communication and a thorough understanding of your diagnosis will lead to a personalized treatment plan that delivers safe, lasting results.

With today’s advanced vein therapies, you have more choices than ever—and with expert guidance, you can confidently take steps toward healthier, more comfortable legs.

If you have questions or would like to schedule a free consultation, call us at 815-254-8888.

Silver Cross Hospital NICU: Caring for the

Silver Cross Hospital in New Lenox is 3 for 3!

Aug. 1 marked the 3rd anniversary of the hospital’s Level 3 Perinatal Center designation, which means it’s able to provide highly specialized care for moms with high-risk pregnancies through its maternal-fetal medicine (MFM) program – and for seriously ill or premature infants through its 24-bed Amy, Matthew and Jay Vana Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

In just 3 short years, the hospital has provided exceptional, lifesaving care to over 200 babies and more than 175 moms who historically would have been transferred out of Silver Cross to receive the level of care they required

In just 3 short years, the hospital has provided exceptional, lifesaving care to over 200 babies and more than 175 moms who historically would have been transferred out of Silver Cross to receive the level of care they required.

Instead, they were able to stay close to home; close to their family support system; and, most importantly, close to each other thanks to the superior care offered in the hospital’s 24-bed NICU, and mother/baby and labor and delivery units – the busiest in Will County with 3,100+ deliveries every year.

“Giving moms and babies the healthiest possible start is so important to our community – and to Silver Cross,” explains President/CEO Michael Mutterer. “Our Level 3 Perinatal Designation means patients have access to everything they need, including on-site support of Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital’s neonatologists and pediatric specialists, pediatric surgery, anesthesia, radiology, cardiology, neurology, rehabilitation services,

respiratory therapy, superior nursing care in our Mother/Baby Unit and our NICU, and maternal-fetal medicine support for moms with high-risk pregnancies.”

Happy Babies and Families Celebrate at NICU Reunion

In September, the hospital’s NICU – the only one in Will County – hosted its second annual NICU graduate reunion with more than 200 guests at the KidsWork Children’s in New Lenox. Little could be heard over the joyful sounds of baby talk, laughter and the patter of little feet exploring the museum’s many exhibits.

Throughout the month, the hospital also shared pictures and stories of happy, healthy NICU graduates on its Facebook page. Among them was Alice White of

the tiniest patients and their families

California. Alice’s parents Megan and Jeffrey flew home last fall from Los Angeles to her parents’ home in Orland Park for a “High Tea” themed baby shower at a quaint cottage restaurant nearby.

Instead of attending her own baby shower, however, Megan ended up at Silver Cross with severe preeclampsia. Her daughter, Alice, was born Oct. 19, 2024, at just 29 weeks and 5 days, weighing 2 lbs. 8 oz, and spent 58 days in the NICU.

“Silver Cross is only five minutes from my parents’ home,” Megan said. “I’m glad they were so close, and they have such a wonderful NICU. I don’t think we would’ve received the same care here (in California).”

Throughout her pregnancy, Megan said she experienced nausea, headaches, swelling, and difficulty breathing.

“I didn’t feel well when I left for Chicago, but people were flying in from all over the country for the shower, so I arrived a few days early so I could spend time with them.”

Soon after, her family—many of whom are medical professionals—checked her blood pressure and, with concern, brought her to the Orland Park Fire Station to double check. She was, in fact, in hypertensive crisis and needed emergency care.

At Silver Cross, with husband Jeffrey at her side, doctors confirmed severe preeclampsia and performed an emergency C-section. “They said, ‘It’s going to seem like a SWAT team in there, but we know exactly what to do.’”

Alice proved to be a tough little fighter from the start. She breathed with the help of a ventilator for only three days, and then graduated to a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine. “The NICU staff felt like family,” Megan said. “They taught us how to care for her and included us in every moment.”

Just before discharge, an MRI revealed a brain bleed. “We didn’t know if it would cause lasting damage, but all tests since show she’s meeting every milestone.”

Alice was discharged on Dec. 16, the 76th birthday of Megan’s mom’s. Now, she’s a giggly, book-loving baby with eight teeth and a big appetite. To celebrate her first birthday, the family planned a celebration with a special theme: High Tea, just like the baby shower that never was.

For more information, visit www.silvercross.org/NICU.

Morris Hospital adds prenatal exercise class

Morris Hospital is offering a new Prenatal Exercise Class on Wednesdays from 4-4:45 p.m. at the Morris Hospital YMCA, 2200 W. Dupont Ave., Morris. The class is free and does not require YMCA membership to participate.

According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, regular exercise during pregnancy benefits both mom and baby by reducing back pain, easing constipation, promoting healthy weight gain during pregnancy, strengthening heart and blood vessels, and decreasing the risk of gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and cesarean delivery.

The Prenatal Exercise Class at the Y is taught by a certified pre and postnatal coach from Morris Hospital. Interested participants should sign up at the YMCA front desk up to 90 minutes before the start of the class. Class size is limited to the first 20 participants.

For more information, contact Morris Hospital Wellness Manager Becca Evola at 815-705-7358.

When to see a spine specialist for neck or back pain

Back and neck pain can make everyday tasks challenging. While occasional soreness is normal, persistent or worsening discomfort may signal a more serious issue that deserves a closer look.

Dr. Mir Ali, a board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon with Morris Hospital Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, says certain warning signs indicate it may be time to see a specialist.

“Pain that radiates into the arms or legs, weakness in the limbs, trouble walking, or issues with bowel or bladder control are red flags,” he explains. “These symptoms may indicate spinal nerve involvement or compression and should not be overlooked.”

For most patients, conservative treatments are the first course of action. “We typically begin with nonoperative treatments like physical therapy or chiropractic care, especially for isolated neck or back pain,” says Dr. Ali. “If the pain radiates, we may recommend epidural injections to reduce inflammation around the nerves.” These conservative approaches can be very effective and help many patients avoid surgery altogether.

However, there are situations where surgery becomes necessary. This typically happens when conservative treatments no longer provide relief or when more urgent symptoms develop. “Very rarely does someone need surgery without trying other treatments first,” Dr. Ali notes. Emergency surgery may be required if there is significant weakness, difficulty walking, or loss of control over bowel or bladder function.

For those who do need surgery, the outlook is far more reassuring than many expect. “Ninety percent of the spine surgeries we do at Morris Hospital are minimally invasive,” Dr. Ali says. “Smaller incisions mean less pain, shorter operating times, less bleeding, and quicker recovery. Most patients go home the same day.”

If you’ve had neck or back pain for weeks with little or no relief, don’t wait. Dr. Ali offers evaluation, imaging, and tailored treatment at office locations in Morris, Ottawa, and Joliet. Early care can greatly improve your quality of life.

To learn more or schedule an evaluation, visit www.morrishospital.org/spine or call 815-942-4875.

Dr. Mir Ali, Orthopedic Spine Surgeon, Morris Hospital

Bladder & bowel health: Regaining comfort & confidence

Bladder and bowel dysfunctions are more common than many realize, yet they are rarely discussed openly. These conditions may involve difficulty controlling urination, frequent urges, constipation, or leakage.

According to Reilly Jaeger, a Morris Hospital physical therapist who has special training in pelvic health therapy, “Bladder dysfunction is a general term for any abnormality in the way the bladder stores or empties urine. This can manifest as a frequent or urgent need to urinate, an inability to control urine, or a feeling of not fully emptying the bladder.”

The causes of pelvic floor dysfunction are diverse and not limited to pregnancy or childbirth. Stress, hip or lower back issues, neurological conditions, and menopause can all contribute. Some people may also experience problems after surgery, trauma, or due to chronic constipation. Lifestyle factors such as diet, smoking, or exercise routines may play a role, along with medical conditions like COPD, Parkinson’s, or multiple sclerosis.

A new pelvic health therapy program through Morris Hospital’s Rehabilitation Services offers customized treatments to restore comfort and function. Specially trained physical therapists assess health history and develop personalized plans with manual therapy, exercises, and education. This addresses bladder and

bowel issues, pelvic pain, tailbone discomfort during pregnancy, pain during intercourse, or ongoing pain in the hips, back, or abdomen.

Getting help for these problems is vital because they can greatly affect daily life. Many people limit their outings, plan their days around bathroom access, or avoid social events altogether. As Jaeger emphasizes, “That is no way to live.” Seeking treatment can help patients regain their independence and feel more comfortable joining in activities they enjoy.

Pelvic health therapy also empowers patients by educating them about their bodies and providing tools for long-term self-care. By addressing the underlying causes of dysfunction, treatment can reduce pain, restore function, and improve overall well-being. For those who have been silently struggling, Morris Hospital’s pelvic health therapy offers compassionate care and an opportunity to reclaim quality of life.

Pelvic health therapy is available at the Morris Hospital Orthopedics & Sports Medicine physical therapy locations at 1051 W. U.S. Route 6, Morris, and 1306 Gemini Circle, Suite 3, Ottawa. A physician’s referral is required for physical therapy services.

For more information, call 815-942-8301 or visit morrishospital.org/pelvichealth.

Joliet woman finds new strength, freedom after robotic knee replacement at Morris Hospital

For 79-year-old Margie Theobald, few things bring more joy than staying active and spending time with her family. But for years, chronic knee pain controlled her life and kept her from doing the things she loved most. What started as lingering discomfort from a high school injury slowly turned everyday activities into painful challenges.

The prospect of knee replacement surgery wasn’t new to Margie, having had her left knee replaced at a hospital in Missouri in 2013. “That first surgery went wonderfully,” Margie recalls. “I knew I’d eventually need to have my right knee done too, but life got in the way. I kept putting it off, thinking I could just live with the pain. Over time, it only continued to get worse.”

so bad that the arthritis had even started to invade the top of my tibia bone. That’s when I knew it was time to finally have surgery.”

As the years passed, the right knee became more debilitating. Margie went from using a cane to a walker and eventually reached a point where she couldn’t stand or walk without support. “There were times when I couldn’t even put my body weight on that leg,” she says. “I convinced myself I could live the rest of my life using a cane, but eventually I realized I couldn’t live like that and I didn’t want to.”

The pain began to affect more than her mobility; it impacted her social life and her sense of independence. “When it got to the point that I couldn’t attend family functions, that hurt more than the physical pain,” Margie says. “I didn’t want to drag a walker everywhere or feel like a burden. I started missing out on birthdays, holidays, and gatherings because I just couldn’t keep up.”

A lifelong educator and former physical education teacher, Margie had always been active—teaching swimming for more than 30 years and enjoying walking and biking well into her 70s. “I couldn’t imagine spending the rest of my life in a wheelchair,” she says. “That wasn’t me.”

Determined to take back her freedom, Margie made an appointment with Morris Hospital Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, where she first met orthopedic surgeon Dr. Stephen Treacy. After reviewing her X-rays, he referred her to Dr. Ahmed Eldib, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in robotic-assisted total knee replacement.

“When Dr. Treacy came in during my first appointment, he said, ‘You need to see Dr. Eldib,’” Margie recalls. “He told me my knee was

Before undergoing surgery, Dr. Eldib recommended physical therapy to help Margie strengthen her leg and improve alignment. That’s when Margie met physical therapist Gianna Kreiger, who quickly became an important part of Margie’s recovery. “Gianna was absolutely wonderful,” Margie says. “She understood the pain I was in but still pushed me to do what I needed to do. She never let me give up.”

In August 2025, Margie underwent Mako robotic-armassisted total knee replacement surgery performed by Dr. Eldib at Morris Hospital. Just weeks after surgery, she is back to doing the things she loves— and doing them without pain.

“I’m carrying laundry again, walking without help, even getting down on the floor to play with my little nieces and nephews, and getting back up by myself!” she says, laughing. “That’s something I hadn’t done for years.”

Margie credits her care team at Morris Hospital for giving her the confidence to move forward. “Everyone -- from Dr. Eldib and Dr. Treacy to my physical therapist -- was so positive and encouraging,” she says. “No one ever told me I was too old for surgery. In fact, they said there were 80-year-olds having knee replacements right now. That gave me hope.”

Looking ahead, Margie is grateful she took a leap of faith. “My advice to others is simple: don’t let age stop you,” she says. “If you’re living with pain, you don’t have to. I’m proof that it’s never too late to take your life back.”

Morris Hospital Orthopedics & Sports Medicine has office locations in Morris, Joliet, Diamond-Coal City, and Ottawa.

For more information, visit www.morrishospital.org/orthopedics.

Morris Hospital physical therapist Gianna Kreiger has been an important part of Margie Theobold’s recovery following Mako robotic-arm-assisted surgery at Morris Hospital.

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