THE OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER OF SHELTERING ARMS FOUNDATION DECEMBER 2023
Gratitude Lit up with
d Shelly Rose
Tim Klabunde an
Valerie and Claude Boggess
Polly Hutc hinson w ith her ex physiolo ercise gist, Alex ander La vallis
Light it up with Gratitude Event, Donors light up the Bridge Garden
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4-5
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P2O Event A Celebration to Remember
Patient Ambassadors Making a Difference
Valerie Boggess Serving With a Smile
Polly Hutchinson Living Her Best Life
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Inspirational Journey Into Medicine
Bal du Bois The Power of Community Giving
Dr. Robbie Svoboda
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DUPONT Power of Giving
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Giving Day Success Together, we Drive Ability
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Leni & Carl Price Hope, Love, and Laughter
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New Foundation Website Mark Your Calendar Upcoming Events
Happy Holidays! We are pleased to share remarkable stories from the Sheltering Arms Community. You will learn about dedicated team members, committed volunteers, patients, and their family members who have found the Power to Overcome illness or injury, and the story of a physician whose spinal cord injury led him into a career in medicine. It is a privilege for us to share these stories with you. You, our partners and supporters, make these stories of hope, courage, perseverance, and gratitude possible. We hope that you will continue to enable this work and advance our mission through a gift to the Annual Fund.
CLICK HERE for
more ways to give!
Thank you for your partnership and support, Mac, Kelly, Lisa, Tricia, Michael, Kyle
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Bal du Bois
Bal du Bois Sponsors
Since 1957, the Junior Board of Sheltering Arms has planned and executed the Bal du Bois. It remains Sheltering Arms Foundation’s largest fundraising event and introduces dozens of college age women to their role in community volunteer leadership. In 2023, the Junior Board once again flawlessly executed the 67th annual Bal du Bois and it was one of the most successful yet! 37 young women took upon the role of sponsors in support of Sheltering Arms. Over 1,100 people attended the Summer in Positano themed event on the evening of June 2nd, 2023.
Having already fulfilled their $1 million capital campaign pledge to build Sheltering Arms Institute, the generous proceeds from this years event will fund the renovation of Sheltering Arms Institute Bon Air Outpatient Center. This renovation is part of a larger-scale initiative to refresh and refurbish our outpatient facilities, offering thousands of patients and their families even better support as they continue to pursue recovery after their illness or injury.
Front row left to right: Deirdre Zara Norman, Nancy Clowdis Martin,
Lillian Caroline Crocker, Sarah Frances Brugh, Virginia Copeland Norfleet, Sheppard McLaughlin McVey Back row left to right: Millie Lamar Whitmore, Mason Elizabeth Allen, Avery Elizabeth Sutro, Margaret-Anne Connelly Strickler, Dylan Ellis Lyons, Laurence George Innes
Left to right: Mary Lewis Smith Simpson, Virginia Claire
Hackney, Olivia Corbin Armfield, Catherine Priscilla Slocum, Anna Parrish Roberts, Abigail Erin Jenkins, Addison Hughes Smith, Sarah Pancoast Miller Sponsors Not Pictured: Virginia Armistead Angle, Anne Raisinger Bowles. Carrington Southall Bowles, Caroline Harrison Buehler, Elizabeth Caresse Craig, Armistead Greer Foster, Ava Neaves Gardner, Ann Archer Gurkin, Claire Adams Herrington, Anne Gamble Jennings, Sarah Elizabeth Johnson, Claudia Clifford Lamb, Ivey Randolph Mathews, Sarah Claiborne Mathews, Margaret Anne Heaton Noble, Katherine Paige Scher, Elizabeth Blair Workman
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Polly Hutchinson
is Living Her Best Life “I just completed workout #600! I have been going to Neurofit since May 2017,” says Polly Hutchinson, a mother of three, who had a stroke in August 2016. Polly wanted to live independently and take back control of her life; she did her research and found Sheltering Arms. She
her work so hard over the years motivated me to work hard to keep pushing her towards her goals. It’s been an incredible experience these past five years.”
recently received financial assistance from Sheltering
Alexander Lavallis, Neurofit Coordinator (ACSM EP
Arms’ Partner for L.I.F.E. Program, so that she can
– C) was a student at VCU, studying to become a
go to Neurofit three times a week. Thanks to Polly’s
physical therapist, but his path changed following
positive attitude and dedication to fitness, she enjoys
an internship in Sheltering Arms Neurofit program.
adventurous experiences such as Life Rolls On, an
He discovered a whole new world along with a
adaptive surfing program, and Stroke Camp.
concrete way to help people. Alexander says, “My first
During her recovery she has participated in outpatient physical rehabilitation and Neurofit at our Hanover Outpatient Clinic. Polly credits her Sheltering Arms
impression of Polly was that she was goal oriented. I enjoyed her enthusiasm, persistence, and dedication. It makes the time more valuable.”
Occupational Therapist, Joy Bradshaw, with helping her be the best version of herself. “In the beginning, there was doubt and depression,” Joy explains. “It takes time to create a new normal. In Polly’s case, her self-motivation has been inspiring.” After the stroke, she was in a wheelchair, and had to relearn to put on her shoes and dress herself. “Joy helped me find other ways of doing things; she very gently told me that I may not regain fine motor control to write again. But she gave me the greatest gift when she told me that my goal is full functional return of my dominant left arm and hand; Joy believes in me so strongly.”
Alexander and Polly
“I’m always a playful person,” says Alexander, “and
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It takes a motivated individual to deal with functional
we started to do fist pumps together.” Their sessions
deficits. Some days, Polly still has pain, and her
consisted of exercises to improve her flexibility
body may not listen. Joy points out that Polly is very
and strengthen her left side. “I admired her. It’s so
proactive in her recovery. She does research and finds
important when the individual is personally invested
new ideas and tools to help her. Joy adds, “Therapy
in their recovery.” Alexander recalls that Polly played
fatigue causes many people to stop or take breaks
soccer at UVA, so he incorporated a soccer ball
from therapy. Polly just keeps working hard. Polly’s
against the wall into her workout regime. Currently,
continual persistence is remarkable. Seeing
Polly also works closely with Exercise Physiologists
Neurofit is part of Sheltering Arms Partner for L.I.F.E. (Leisure, Interaction, Fitness, Enjoyment). NeuroFit incorporates innovative programming and state-of-thescience technology to empower our clients to achieve their fitness and recovery goals. We achieve this by implementing evidencebased practices and an individualized approach for each client. The program focuses on improving function in the upper and lower extremities, weight management, strength, conditioning, balance and overall quality of life. Exercise, no matter physical capability, is for everyone at NeuroFit.
I have so much respect and admiration for Polly. She works hard to inspire others through Facebook groups, text message circles and reaching out to people all over the country. She uplifts them and encourages them. Her message is Don’t Give Up.
Sheltering Arms recently began offering financial assistance to all of our Partner for L.I.F.E. programs, including Neurofit. This helps make programming more accessible for all in our community.
(EP’s) Veronika Williams and Taylor Speicher who provide her with a well-rounded program that is helping her stay strong and make consistent progress. The Neurofit program, is an integral part of Polly’s
LEARN MORE
- Joy Bradshaw, Occupational Therapist To learn more about Neurofit and other Partner for L.I.F.E. programs please contact, Tricia Ambler, (804) 342-4321 or tambler@shelteringarms.com
recovery. It is an exercise-based program developed around scientific principles to help individuals experiencing the effects of a neurological illness or injury improve strength, endurance, range of motion, central nervous system stimulation, balance, and functional movement. Polly is especially grateful to her three children: Katie (34), John (30) and Stephen (28) for helping her recover. Her youngest son, Stephen, was only 21 when she had the stroke. “He stepped up and has been so generous with his time and effort to help me. Stephen makes it possible for me to do things; he comes with me to activities.” Polly continues to embrace new experiences, including volunteering at the visitors desk at Sheltering Arms Institute hospital on Saturday and Sunday mornings. She is an inspiration to others, creating a life beyond limits.
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Make a PATIENT AMBASSADORS Difference Elyse Hunsicker, Katie Ilch, Joe Carmadella, Alan Lombardo
Throughout the years, volunteers have enhanced the patient experience.
Patient ambassadors improve the lives of Sheltering Arms Institute (SAI) patients by creating a positive patient experience. Katie Ilch, Quality Manager at SAI and
Their various titles have been patient
Elyse Hunsicker, Manager, Volunteer Services & Student
reps, patient ambassadors, and visitors.
Engagement spearhead this amazing program. It has been
They all share a common goal, to recognize and remove obstacles, and provide high quality health care services by serving as a liaison between patients, families, and the hospital. These volunteers help patients
hugely successful, boasting seven ambassadors who come to Sheltering Arms Institute (SAI) once a week to meet with patients and provide invaluable feedback. Katie says, “We
appreciate that these ambassadors give us insight into how things are going daily with our patients. They can create connections that a staff member can’t necessarily make.” These SAI ambassadors are at different stages of life ranging from students to retired
address their emotional and social
professionals who want to support patients throughout
needs and assist in contributing to a
their recovery.
LEARN MORE
more positive overall patient experience.
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If you would like to learn more about volunteering at Sheltering Arms please contact, Michael Greene-Russell, (804) 342-4141 or mgreene-russell@shelteringarms.com
Patsy Pulley, Lisa Johnson, Ava Sugar, Joe Carmadella
Holly Antrim, a mother of three and 1970’s
throughout her
sponsor of the Bal du Bois, volunteers each week
childhood. This
to brighten up our patients’ days. Growing up in
activity brought
Richmond, her parents emphasized the power of
back many positive
service to others which always made Holly feel
memories.” Joe’s ability to connect with patients
connected to the hospital’s mission. Her long and
reinforces the viability of our Patient Ambassador
varied history of support includes years on the Junior
program. Katie, who is invested in making the patient
Board, Sheltering Arms Hospital Board, a stint on
experience at SAI positive, relishes Joe’s kite story.
the Women’s Council, and now a commitment each
“This story highlights that patients are individuals
week as a patient ambassador. She packs a positive
who have a rich and varied history.”
attitude in her bag, sharing hope and laughter as she meets and greets patients on Tuesdays. Holly says,
Katie and Elyse have proactively implemented
“I love giving to Sheltering Arms.”
new ideas based upon feedback from patients. For example, Joe told them about the need for
This volunteer position is extremely important,
reading material, particularly more educational
especially when a patient asks for prayers. Holly
and entertaining stories. Thanks to his input, they
says, “If I can make anybody’s day better, that’s a win-win.” Her enthusiasm for the program is
worked together to create a rolling library cart of books for patients to enjoy. They surprised Joe by
contagious. Holly is sharing her story so that
naming the new rolling library the “Carmadella Cart.”
other people will follow her lead. “I want people to
It’s a hit with patients and so is Joe’s helpful and
volunteer for this program and get involved. When I
caring presence each week. Katie adds, “Joe is
give patients a pep talk, it makes me feel good.”
a bright light in this world.”
Joe Carmadella, retired military, shares Holly’s desire to make a difference. He became a volunteer to support his community.
“When I first started, I wasn’t sure what to expect. It made me realize how lucky I am, and I like giving back. When I see a patient more than once, I always observe a notable difference in his/her condition as a result of the therapy at SAI.” Joe experienced a particularly meaningful encounter with a neurology patient last spring. He recalls knocking on her door, carefully peeking inside to inquire how she was doing. To his delight, the patient replied that it was a remarkably good day. “She told me that she had flown a kite that day. It was a special experience. She went on to share that her father made kites in Peru, and they flew them together
Patient Ambassadors like Holly and Joe brighten patients’ days, providing positive energy and meaningful connections. They are a shining light at Sheltering Arms Institute.
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Spotlight on
Robbie Svoboda, MD
Journey into Medicine – Another Road Created
Dr. Robbie Svoboda, a Richmond native and spinal
Robbie’s injury ignited his natural curiosity, fueling
cord injury survivor, and Sheltering Arms Institute (SAI)
intense research and analysis on numerous solutions
resident from VCU’s School of Medicine, says, “When
that were not forthcoming. He says, “I was always
I’m with a patient, I really understand what they are
inquisitive about the latest therapies or treatments.
going through.” Thanks to his close-knit family and an
Unfortunately, I concluded that there was no miracle
army of lifelong friends, he has navigated the twists and
cure, and it was up to me to adjust to life using a
turns of his injury along with the rigors of four years of
wheelchair.”
medical school in Savannah, GA. His older sister Kerry says, “He is a great doctor because he’s sustained what his patients are experiencing. He knows all their emotions and fears. That is an amazing benefit of him choosing to be in the healthcare profession.” Robbie
Throughout his recovery, Robbie pushed doctors and therapists for ideas and a
is motivated by a desire to help others find a new path
better understanding of his injury. He
just as he did.
recalls one of his doctors saying, “I
During his undergraduate years at Hampden-Sydney College, Robbie started out pre-med but shifted to Economics at the advice of his physician father. After graduation, Robbie’s interest in finance and money management took him to New York City and Atlanta where he worked for a wealth manager. His
enjoy talking with you about medical problems. You’d be a good doctor if
you ever wanted to go that route.” That suggestion changed the trajectory of his life.
entrepreneurial spirit and easygoing manner worked well in business. In 2008, Robbie attended a friend’s wedding and while dancing fell down a flight of stairs. The fall damaged his spine and left him paralyzed from the waist down. With an unfailing sense of humor, he quips, “They’re still married!” An outpouring of love and support from family and friends helped him in the immediate aftermath of the injury and during his recovery. Since SAI, with dedicated spinal cord injury care (SCI) care was not yet open, Robbie and his family sought specialized rehab care in Atlanta. In fact, his older sister, Kerry, moved to Atlanta for three years to support him. She recalls, “Robbie is a strong and kind individual. He had a huge group of friends who visited him during his rehabilitation. People from all over the country just kept coming to check on him. It was amazing.” Robbie and his mother
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Spinal Cord Injury Model System (SCIMS) Program This program began in 1970 to improve care
In July 2020, after four years of medical school at Mercer University School of Medicine, Robbie was accepted into the VCU School of Medicine Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (PM&R) residency program. Thanks to years of hard work, discipline, and perseverance, he is currently in his final year of residency and rotates between VCUH, the Veterans Administration, and SAI. Robbie brings his medical knowledge, combined with SAI’s core values of positivity and courage, to patient care.
and outcomes for individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI). SCI Model Systems provide a transdisciplinary system of physical rehabilitative care from emergency services to rehabilitation care to reentry into full community life. Model Systems also conduct research, provide education, and translate information with a goal of improving long-term functional, cognitive, and quality of life outcomes for individuals living with a spinal cord injury. Sheltering Arms Institute is one of 18 federally recognized Spinal Cord Injury Model Systems in the country and the only one in Virginia. SAI offers state-of-the-science spinal cord injury care in both the inpatient and outpatient settings. Also, our medical and adaptive fitness program offers programs such as Neurofit to help patients through their recovery journey.
He shares his personal journey with patients who may be frightened, confused and angry after a traumatic injury. Robbie explains, “Even though one of the roads
washed out, another road is created, but it might take a while to find it.” In his residency, he
Congratulations Dr. Svoboda on your ability to help others find the Power to Overcome!
is helping various types of patients who have suffered a stroke or brain or spinal cord injuries. “I like to talk to people and hear their stories. Kerry’s relationship with her younger brother is special; she considers him her best friend. She knows Robbie as capable and independent. “I think Robbie is one of the strongest and neatest people I know. His ability to stay positive and never complain about anything” Kerry notes “shows such incredible grace.” Robbie’s mother has also supported him every step of the way. Robbie’s family is thrilled with his achievements as well as the scientific advancements happening at SAI. Kerry
Robbie and his sister
injuries so money can help fuel research. SAI is doing such a great job raising awareness to address these injuries.”
Robbie Svoboda embodies the Sheltering Arms spirit in his professional and personal life.
LEARN MORE
says, “We need more people to be aware of spinal cord
For additional information on supporting programs at Sheltering Arms Institute please contact Kyle Amey, (804) 342-4131 or kamey@shelteringarms.com
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I Get Back
More Than I Give Valerie Boggess joined the Sheltering Arms team more than twenty-four years ago working at the pool desk at Bon Air. Valerie split her time between patient access and the community recreation program, which has evolved into our Partner for L.I.F.E program. Sheltering Arms has provided Valerie with opportunities to learn more about the community we serve. With a keen sense of observation, she learned to communicate with a patient with aphasia by observing her facial expressions. Fourteen years ago, Valerie began working at Club Rec’s new Midtown location – it was a “temporary” assignment that she never left. She loves the interactions she’s had with patients, team members, and most of all Club Rec members. “I love watching patients and Club Rec members push beyond the boundaries that have been set for them.” Valerie and her husband, Claude made their first gift to Sheltering Arms in 2013, supporting Club Rec and Annual Giving. They give to Club Rec to provide new experiences and to help members live their Life Beyond Limits.
“For me, Sheltering Arms is a call to serve, and I will continue to answer that call – even when I retire.”
Thank you Valerie! 10
P2O Celebration The 2023 celebration of the Power to Overcome marked the thirteenth Sheltering Arms event, the 1st since COVID, and it was a SOLD OUT, record-breaking night to remember! The evening brought together patients, family members, friends, caregivers, team members, and supporters who honored and celebrated the achievements of our patients and shared how Sheltering Arms continues to shape the future of rehabilitation to improve the quality of life in our community and beyond.
400 44 Guests
Sponsors
$155,000 Raised
Guests heard the recovery journey of Jordan Erisman, who came to Sheltering Arms Institute following a spinal cord injury and the collaborative effort of many who have helped him find his Power to Overcome. Across our continuum, we work together to enhance the value of advanced rehab care we bring to patients. To close the celebration, a special song, written and produced by George Rose and Audrey Weatherstone, Sheltering Arms’ Music Therapist, was performed. There was not a dry eye in the ballroom when George and Audrey sang, “Better Days are Coming,” an inspirational anthem that motivated George to live a Life Beyond Limits. Both of our guest speakers were residents from the Roanoke area at the time of their injuries. To learn more about supporting P2O in 2025, please contact Lisa Resch, (804) 342-4326 or lresch@shelteringarms.com
Kelly and Jordan
George and Audrey
Sheltering Arms Institute hospital has cared for over 7,000 people traveling from around Virginia as well as from twenty-two other states to achieve the best possible outcomes.
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For more than 70 years, the DuPont
family to provide donations to Sheltering Arms –
Company and employees—particularly
the hospital with a heart.
the DuPont 3000 Day Safety Club — have
Their donations have supported our continuum of
supported our mission to restore people
care, providing: two industrial Work Cubes used
to fulfilling lives after injury or illness.
for return-to-work rehabilitation, located at our outpatient centers; a vehicle for our Club Rec and inpatient therapeutic recreation programs; safety training programs for our nursing staff; and a paragolfer mobile standing frame for our adaptive golf program. In 2023, Sheltering Arms’ Club Rec program,
Founded as an engineering work place safety group, DuPont’s 3000 Day Safety Club was founded in 1941. Not long after it began, members aspired to help those less fortunate in our community, including support of Sheltering Arms. The members have been part of our legacy and witnessed the evolution of community care
received a contribution from DuPont’s Community Engagement Giving program. Through this gift, Club Rec purchased a 3-D printer to produce adaptive and assistive technology for its members. Objects that can be created via a 3-D printer include adaptive paint brushes, scissors, and other personalized craft supplies, forks, spoons, and many other items. These objects will help members
provided by our hospital. Safety Club members
become more independent and embrace their Life
worked tirelessly through grassroots fundraising
Beyond Limits.
that included collection boxes, barbecue dinners, recycling projects, raffles and asking friends and
Adaptive or assistive technology is any product, device, software, or tool that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capacities for people with disabilities or special conditions. This type of technology promotes independence and empowers a person to access or perform a task they were unable to do or had great difficulty in performing. 3-D printing enables the personalization and creation of objects and/or tools for individual members.
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THANK YOU! to all donors who participated in
Giving Day We received
145+ Gifts and more than
$140,000 Giving Day is held in September during National Rehabilitation Awareness week. This week allows our team the opportunity to share the impact your generosity provides to advance physical rehabilitation in our community. Gifts received on Giving Day help us drive ability by supporting positive, unique patient experiences, access to advanced physical rehabilitative care, recreation therapy, chaplaincy, and many other programs to help people live a Life Beyond Limits. On September 20, 2023, with a goal of $100,000, your support helped us raise $140,000 and counting to support world-class physical rehabilitation in our community. An anonymous donor pledged an additional $25,000 if we raised $50,000 in community support! You helped us meet that challenge. Your gifts help us drive positive patient experiences, community collaborations, and a chance for people to find their Power to Overcome injury and illness.
Together, we Drive Ability!
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HOPE love
laughter
Leni and Carl Price As we think about what we are grateful for over the past year, we are sharing a story of hope, gratitude, and love. In January 2023, Carl Price experienced a stroke that left him paralyzed on the left side of his body. Leni unexpectedly found herself in the role of caregiver, which she embraced. She became his advocate, cheerleader and storyteller. She wanted him to be at the best place possible for stroke care and advocated for him to come to Sheltering Arms Institute. As Leni watched Carl’s therapy, she gravitated to caregivers of other patients to learn about their experience. She used these moments to bond and better understand how she could help Carl. Leni says, “The hardest thing to do was to step back and let Carl fall if he needed to.” Carl used several different body-weight support systems allowing him to safely fall while learning to walk again. Their experience has led to tears and frustration, but they want to thank the team at Sheltering Arms Institute for showing them how to hope, laugh, and dance again.
e,” it Up with Gratitud ht ig “L us lp he ill We hope you w ore stories, d help us create m an r ve gi re ca a g by honorin ome! the Power to Overc g tin ra st on m de l, like Leni and Car
e make a gift at as le p e, d tu ti ra g To share your ion.org/donate. at d un o sf m ar g in er www.shelt
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CHECK OUT our new Sheltering Arms Foundation Website www.shelteringarmsfoundation.org The new site is designed to help you learn more about our projects and programs across the Sheltering Arms continuum of care. If you have suggestions, please contact Kyle Amey, (804) 342-4131 or kamey@shelteringarms.com
Mark your Calendar January 9, 2024
Adapted Bowling League, Club Rec
January 12, 2024
A taste of International Cuisine Italian, Club Rec
January 19, 2024 • 1-4 p.m.
Afternoon at the Casino, Club Rec – Midtown
Note: For several events listed below, there is additional cost to participate.
April 2024
Occupational Therapy Awareness Month
April 21-27, 2024
National Volunteer Week
May 2024 Stroke Survivor Reunion
January 26, 2024
May 2024
AR Workshop Craft Day, Club Rec – Midtown
Better Hearing and Speech Month
February 2, 2024
May 6-12, 2024
February 9, 2024
May 31, 2024
February 13, 2024
September 16-20, 2024
Caregiver Retreat, Club Rec – Midtown
Valentine’s Dance, Club Rec – Midtown
Adapted Bowling League, Club Rec
February 23, 2024
National Volunteer Week
Bal du Bois
National Rehabilitation Awareness Week
September 18, 2024
Card Club, Club Rec – Midtown
Giving Day, Celebrating Ability
March 2024
March 20, 2025
Brain Injury Awareness Month
P2O Event, Stay tuned for additional details!
For additional information on events at Sheltering Arms, please contact Michael Greene-Russell, (804) 342-4141.
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140 Eastshore Drive, Suite 200 Glen Allen, VA 23059 804.342.4141 shelteringarmsfoundation.org
Written by: Kathleen Reid and Sheltering Arms Foundation team Designed by: Anne Thompson
NON-PROFIT U.S. POSTAGE PAID RICHMOND, VA PERMIT #320
