500 patients in the first month
Mount Vernon Surgery Center a new hub for outpatient surgery in our region | 6
A new alternative to CPAP to treat obstructive sleep apnea has arrived at Skagit Regional Health | 7
The new Ion Robotic Bronchoscopy System makes tumors in the lung more accessible | 12 earlier than ever
Challenges, when viewed as opportunities, create a shift in perspective, motivating us to find solutions. Coming out of the pandemic, the past two years posed particular challenges for health systems everywhere: staffing shortages, limited access to care and the increased financial pressures for labor and supplies. In response, Skagit Regional Health (SRH) embarked on ambitious projects to meet patient demands for more access to doctors and surgical services. SRH constructed, staffed and opened two new facilities in 2023: The Station Square clinic and the Mount Vernon Surgery Center.
Skagit Regional Health (SRH), Public Hospital District 1, is a nonprofit, community-owned entity governed by local citizens through a publicly elected Board of Commissioners. SRH includes Skagit Valley Hospital, Cascade Valley Hospital and approximately 30 clinic locations in Skagit, north Snohomish and Island counties. SRH is Skagit County’s the largest employer, with more than 3,000 staff and providers, including 250 employed physicians and advanced practice providers. Skagit Regional Health is committed to providing and enhancing healthcare services and has a vision to transform healthcare by improving access, service, quality and efficiency in support of our goal of a healthier community.
Public Hospital District 1 Board of Commissioners:
• Peter Browning
• Frei Burton, Chair
• Bruce Lisser
• Jeffrey Miller, PhD, JD
• Dale Ragan
• Gary Shand
• Monira Vakil, DO
The Board of Commissioners may be reached at srhboard@skagitregionalhealth.org
HealthQuest is published by Skagit Regional Health. It is intended to provide information about general health and resources provided by SRH. To reach the editor, contact marketing@skagitregionalhealth.org or call 360-814-2424.
For more information about Skagit Regional Health, visit SkagitRegionalHealth.org
Station Square opened in January 2023 and the Mount Vernon Surgery Center followed in December. With these facilities, we are delivering on our mission by expanding access to care in the community. Since opening, we have experienced record-breaking surgical volumes. It is an investment that has already proven to improve access to critical medical services.
With a strong financial improvement plan in place and hard work by our entire team, Skagit Regional Health returned to a positive financial position in 2023. Through financial stewardship and strong growth in patient volumes, SRH was able to recover the losses we experienced in 2022 and end the year with a positive net income.
In February, we closed on a new bond issue, allowing SRH to execute on several key strategic initiatives that will increase access to health care. These include the purchase of the Station Square medical office building in Mount Vernon, equipping the Mount Vernon Surgery Center and partnering with Public Hospital District 3 for a new medical office building in Arlington.
Planning for the future, SRH has begun a focused process to produce a formal strategic plan for the organization. This effort, led by the Board of Commissioners, will produce a multi-year strategic direction and associated priorities. The in-depth process includes a strategic assessment, data analysis, focus groups, interviews and surveys. It is important we hear from all stakeholders as we do this important work.
Looking back, and as we move toward the future, we are encouraged by these accomplishments and the continued support of our staff, providers and the community we serve as a Public Hospital District.
Ivie Chief Executive Officer
Burton Chair, Board of Commissioners
The new Mount Vernon Surgery Center is a new hub for outpatient surgery in our community. 7 Better sleep, better health
An alternative treatment option to CPAP is now available at Skagit Regional Health for patients with obstructive sleep apnea. 12 Detecting cancer earlier than ever
The new Ion Robotic Bronchoscopy System allows increased access to lung nodules.
Skagit Regional Health thoracic surgeon Richard Leone, MD, PhD, FACS, beside the new Ion Robotic Bronchoscopy System in an endoscopy suite at Skagit Valley Hospital.
proceeds benefit the Skagit Regional Health Foundation.
We are grateful for our community's support!
Breast cancer was the last thing on Ruth Anspaugh’s mind when she learned her diagnosis.
In April 2022 she received a phone call from her physician following a routine mammogram informing her of her breast
cancer diagnosis. She was shocked and never expected it to happen to her.
“When I first learned about my diagnosis, my heart sank and I literally felt like I was going to die,” said Anspaugh. “I was still working at the time and a co-worker/ friend, who went through a similar diagnosis four years prior, assured me
there is life after cancer. That has always stuck with me. She shared her positive experience at Skagit Regional Health and I am very thankful for that.”
Anspaugh began a 16-month treatment at Skagit Regional Health consisting of surgeries, chemotherapy, radiation and additional infusions. She reflected back on those months and recalled the collaborative, multi-disciplinary approach to her treatment and how she felt heard and genuinely cared for. She remembers being greeted by her first name at the front desk and the time her providers took addressing all of her questions and concerns.
“The cancer care I received at Skagit Regional Health was phenomenal – my entire team of medical professionals was absolutely amazing,” said Anspaugh. “The nurses in the treatment room and the therapists in radiation oncology were extremely kind, caring and professional –every step of the way was explained and I felt they truly cared about my well-being.”
Skagit Regional Health is accredited by the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer and aligns its practices with national guidelines also followed by organizations located in the Seattle metropolitan area – showing that quality cancer care is truly close to home.
Page 5 photo - Wearing her volunteer vest and badge, Anspaugh now volunteers in the Oncology department
Left - Ruth Anspaugh receiving treatment for breast cancer under a quilt made for her by her good friend, MaryJane. at Skagit Regional Health.
Skagit Regional Health provides expert cancer care to residents in Northwest Washington. Our team of highlytrained cancer specialists provides comprehensive cancer care services to families across northwest Washington. Patients in our region benefit from early cancer detection, the latest minimally invasive surgical procedures and lifesaving treatments, all at the Skagit Regional Health Cancer Care Center.
When you have cancer, choosing the best place to go for treatment can be a challenging decision. The Skagit Regional Health Cancer Care Center has provided state-of-the-art cancer care to our community for more than 30 years. We feature a full range of services, including:
• Access to clinical trials
• Advanced diagnostics
• Comprehensive cancer care
• Medical oncology
• Patient support services
• Radiation oncology
• Surgical services
“The
cancer care I received at Skagit Regional Health was phenomenal – my entire team of medical professionals was absolutely amazing.”
Skagit Regional Health aims to also help it feel like home. Anspaugh shared the following story as one example -
“As you can imagine, I was very nervous and scared on my first day in the treatment room for chemotherapy. I intently watched everything and everyone in that room. It was a 6-hour day, so I saw a lot. About halfway through, a 94-year-old lady walked past my chair, she was pushing a walker and had a smile on her face that lit up the room. It was her 94th birthday and the nursing staff celebrated her by wearing party hats. One of the nurses came in on her day off and also made a cake for her. It felt like family there. Everyone really cares about each other. It warmed my heart to see such kindness to celebrate this very special patient’s 94th birthday.
We also got to share in her celebration by having cake. It speaks volumes of these caring people.”
Today, Anspaugh is cancer-free. She credits early detection to her positive outcome and her faith in God to get through the process.
“If you are a woman reading this, please get a mammogram on a regular basis,” said Anspaugh. “If I didn’t have the mammogram done, I would not have known I had cancer. There were no signs, no symptoms, no lumps and no pain.”
Anspaugh now volunteers in the oncology treatment room at the Skagit Regional Health Cancer Care Center in Mount Vernon.
Scan to learn more about cancer care at Skagit Regional Health:
Did you know?
Did you know the Skagit Regional Health Foundation has a Cancer Care Patient Assistance Fund? In 2023, more than $15,575 was provided to pay for transportation, supplementary nutrition, medical fees and pharmaceuticals for cancer patients in need.
How to give: Visit SkagitRegionalHealth.org/ Foundation to help make a difference!
On December 12, 2023, the Skagit Regional Health – Mount Vernon Surgery Center opened its doors to its first patients.
The 60,000-square-foot building provides a modern, stateof-the-art outpatient facility for surgery and endoscopy. It also serves as a medical office building and home to clinics for Audiology; Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT); Gastroenterology; Foot and Ankle; Orthopedics & Sports Medicine; Interventional Pain Medicine and Spine Surgery.
The addition of the surgery center has expanded the organization’s surgical capability while relieving the volumes of the six operating rooms at Skagit Valley Hospital, where the focus remains on patients who need to receive hospital care following surgery and emergent procedures.
“There was an obvious need for the new surgery facility,” said Gary Shand of the Skagit Regional Health Board of Commissioners. “We are a public hospital district and it’s our responsibility to respond to the community’s needs and to their safety.”
The surgeries performed at the surgery center are minimally invasive and do not require overnight hospitalizations –resulting in a faster, more seamless experience and allowing patients to heal in the comfort of their own home.
In its first month of operations, the Mount Vernon Surgery Center saw over 500 patients – a big accomplishment according to Skagit Regional Health surgery center leadership.
They believe the Mount Vernon Surgery Center has provided a safe alternative for outpatient surgeries or procedures that would historically be completed in the acute care setting, allowing the hospital to utilize their resources for inpatient and hospital patients.
Dr. Richard Cavell spent his life working as an ear, nose and throat physician all over the world. When he saw the Mount Vernon Surgery Center being built, he decided it would be an appropriate place to leave a legacy.
“Bonnie and I wanted to leave a mark behind – a place that says, 'we were here,'" said Dr. Cavell.
The Cavells made a donation to the Skagit Regional Health Foundation and in recognition of their significant contribution, the surgery center’s second floor lobby has been named for them. The Dr. Richard and Bonnie Cavell Lobby now greets patients to the new Ear, Nose and Throat clinic.
An alternative treatment option to CPAP is now available at Skagit Regional Health for patients with obstructive sleep apnea.
CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) is a machine that uses mild air pressure to keep breathing airways open while you sleep. This is a widely used treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Skagit Regional Health is proud to now offer Inspire® therapy, a new development in sleep medicine as an alternative treatment option for patients suffering from OSA.
Inspire® therapy uses a device that works much like a pacemaker. A small device is placed in the chest with a wire that goes up into the neck. The patient activates the device before going to bed and turns it off when they wake up. The device senses breathing and gently stimulates the tongue as a breath is drawn which causes it to move forward, opening the airway.
When snoring is associated with a collapse of the airway, this results in a drop in oxygen levels while sleeping. According to sleep medicine provider Nikhil Samtani, MD, quality sleep provides organ systems the oxygen they need to function properly, and without it, there is greater potential for adverse long-term health effects.
“The way I like to think of it is, when you’re having low oxygen at night, it’s not selectively going to impact one or two organ systems,” said Dr. Samtani. “It’s going to impact your overall health – you are at an increased risk for having cardiovascular and neurological events like strokes and heart attacks.”
Dr. Samtani’s opinion is that OSA is underdiagnosed and he notes that sleep medicine is still a relatively new field. The truth is that a good night’s sleep is vital to all the systems in your body, and the list of benefits from treating OSA seems to be growing.
“Every year there’s a new paper talking about how these consequences can impact other organ systems,” said Dr. Samtani. “There’s a lot of research on untreated OSA impacting memory/ dementia, behavioral health and even our ability to generate an adequate immune response.”
How does the Inspire® implant compare to a CPAP machine to treat OSA?
A CPAP will continue to be widely used as the standard treatment for OSA.
According to Dr. England, Inspire® can be quite effective for patients who fail CPAP.
“(CPAP) is 100% effective as long as the patient can tolerate the device,” said Skagit Regional Health ear, nose & throat surgeon Christopher England, MD. “Inspire® is for people with moderate to severe sleep apnea who are not significantly overweight, and who cannot tolerate CPAP.”
How do patients pursue treatment for OSA with Inspire®?
The first step is to visit a Sleep Medicine provider where through a comprehensive history, barriers to CPAP could be addressed and, if needed, alternative treatment options (including, but not limited to Inspire®) could be discussed in detail.
“Patients frequently need an updated sleep study,” said Dr. England. “The sleep medicine providers know what the criteria (for Inspire®) are.”
Options for treating OSA can frequently change, so Dr. England advises patients to talk with their sleep medicine provider before pursuing surgery.
Does insurance cover this procedure?
Patients should always check with their insurance company, but most insurers require that patients try a CPAP machine first. If a patient does not tolerate the CPAP well, insurance companies will require documentation of failure of CPAP to approve Inspire® therapy.
By the end of 2024, Skagit Regional Health will be considered one of the most accessible healthcare organizations in the state for Inspire® therapy.
If snoring is a struggle for you, check with your primary care provider about seeing a sleep medicine specialist. There are ways for everyone to begin their journey to better sleep and ultimately, better health.
David Mourning, MD Spine Surgery
R. Dylan Morris, DO Spine Surgery
Skagit Regional Health spine surgeons David Mourning, MD and R. Dylan Morris, DO, recommend five tips to maintain activity levels while preventing unwanted injuries that may result in back pain.
1
Increase flexibility
When you have tight hamstrings and hip flexors, it can pull the pelvis into flexion, which can alter the lower back and be a source of pain. Increasing your flexibility by regularly stretching your muscles, tendons and ligaments can help prevent back pain.
Discover tips to relieve back pain and reclaim your life! Scan the QR code to listen to an episode of Be Well with Skagit Regional Health featuring orthopedic spine surgeon Dylan Morris, DO. Dr. Morris unravels the mystery of back pain, shares strategies for managing discomfort and provides treatment options.
2
Build a strong back and core muscles
Follow an exercise strengthening program at home or your local gym. YouTube has many options, including functional yoga videos to strengthen your core and lower back.
3
Minimize sitting for long periods of time
In the workplace, take frequent breaks to get a drink of water, use the restroom or stretch. Have your workstation evaluated for proper ergonomics. Invest in a standing desk that can be used throughout the day, allowing a break from sitting. Keeping your back straight, shoulders back and hamstrings from tightening while sitting can also help. Whenever possible, avoid sitting for long periods.
4
Follow safe lifting practices
Whether at home or in the workplace, help prevent lifting injuries by remembering to:
• Keep your back straight
• Bend your knees
• Lift mostly with your legs
5
Maintain a healthy lifestyle
Eating healthy will help reduce inflammation, which is a root cause of many types of chronic pain. Managing stress and getting adequate sleep help our bodies heal.
Following these prevention tips is highly recommended, but in some cases, even the strongest back may need repair. If spine surgery is needed, Skagit Regional Health’s team of spine experts, including David Mourning, MD and R. Dylan Morris, DO, use advanced technologies, including the Globus ExcelsiusGPS® Robotic Navigation system to provide patients with the best outcome for an active and functional life.
For more information about the services available at Skagit Regional Health – Mount Vernon Surgery Center, call 360-814-2663.
R. Dylan Morris, DO Spine Surgery
Jon Ruff, PA-C Orthopedics & Sports Medicine
If starting a new exercise routine is on your mind, read on. Jon Ruff, PA-C, an orthopedic physician assistant with Skagit Regional Health, shares insights into how mental and physical preparation can motivate you and prevent injury before diving into any workout.
One of the most common training mistakes is mental. Pushing yourself too hard too soon can lead to burnout and demotivation, potentially derailing your fitness journey. Instead, Ruff encourages finding joy in the exercise itself, whether it's the social aspect of being active with friends or the peace of a morning jog alone.
Motivation is critical in building up to an exercise. Start slow and be careful to not
burn yourself out. “Sometimes, people attempt a really hard hike or work out and think, ‘Oh man, I'm never going to do this again.’ That discouragement from pain or discomfort is the most important thing to avoid. It is totally okay to start slow and to find things you enjoy,” says Ruff.
Consistency is key, especially if you’ve been sedentary for a while. “Don’t quit once you’ve started. You’ll get that familiar post-workout soreness, but if you maintain the activity, you’ll slowly build up your muscles and endurance and you’ll be more likely to keep at it, which is the ultimate goal,” he says. Maintaining even a low level of activity helps avoid that negative recovery phase.
Take a careful approach to getting back to exercise - consider your mindset and give yourself permission to ease into it. Finding an activity or routine that works for you and sticking with it for the long term are essential in achieving fitness goals that will last.
For more information and helpful tips on exercise from Jon Ruff, PA-C, listen to the Be Well with Skagit Regional Health podcast:
If you haven't been exercising, you'll want to go about it the right way to maximize your efforts and avoid injury. Orthopedic physician assistant Jon Ruff, PA-C discusses the healthiest ways that you can prepare your body for a workout in his episode of Be Well with Skagit Regional Health.
"I didn't want to end my life suffering like that," said Toni, a patient living with end-stage kidney cancer. After her diagnosis, she pursued conventional treatments, including radiation. But the cancer kept coming back, stronger each time and the pain had become unbearable. Toni could no longer sit or walk and had been in and out of the hospital. Her doctor told her there was nothing else they could do.
An intelligent and fiercely independent woman, Toni now faced a daunting question she didn't know how to answer: "Who will take care of me?" She lived alone, with no family or support system to rely on, but she didn't want to live the rest of her life alone and in pain. In a moment of uncertainty, a friend suggested she reach out to Hospice of the Northwest. That's when Toni made a lifechanging phone call.
"The woman on the other end of the line was so kind and easy to talk to," Toni recalled. From the beginning, her hospice experience was one of comfort and compassion. "It's so different than traditional medicine," said Toni. Instead of treating the cancer, hospice treated her as a whole person—focusing on her physical comfort, as well as her emotional, social and spiritual well-being.
Every hospice patient is assigned a dedicated care team that includes a medical provider, nurse, social worker and spiritual counselor. Together, they create a personalized care plan tailored to meet the patient's specific needs and goals. For Toni, pain relief and clarity of mind were most important. She wanted to remain fully present as she neared the end of her life.
To help her achieve this, three new members were added to Toni's care team: a massage therapist to relieve pain and swelling in her legs, a hospice aide to help with personal care and a volunteer who visited Toni every week for conversation and companionship.
Toni's initial fears about being alone quickly disappeared. "I am cared for totally. I have a whole team of people who have my back," Toni said with gratitude.
The hospice care team's holistic approach made a remarkable difference in Toni's life. Her pain subsided and she could now sit and walk comfortably. She even started doing things she loved again, like gardening, attending the fire department's auxiliary meetings and having friends visit. She also celebrated her 80th birthday, a milestone she didn't expect to reach.
As she reflected on her experience with hospice care, Toni smiled and said, "I have a very good life. None of this would be possible without Hospice of the Northwest."
Toni's story highlights the transformative power of hospice care. With the compassionate support of her care team, Toni's quality of life improved significantly. To her, the members of her care team weren't just professionals providing end-of-life care. "I feel like they're friends. They're family," Toni explained. "They've been such a gift."
If you have questions or want more information about how hospice can help you or someone you love, visit www.HospiceNW.org or call 360-814-5550.
MEET TONI
Learn more about her care team in this YouTube video. Scan the QR code to watch!
Skagit Pediatrics has provided exceptional healthcare to generations of families since opening its doors in 1981. Over the years, the Mount Vernon clinic has grown in size and scope while staying true to their mission of providing the highest quality of pediatric care. Notable milestones included developing a Parent Advisory Committee, becoming a PatientCentered Medical Home and hiring a clinic social worker to support integrated behavioral health. The next step in the clinic’s evolution takes place on April 29, 2024, when Skagit Pediatrics’ nine providers join Skagit Regional Health.
Richard Levine, MD, who has practiced at Skagit Pediatrics since 1995, expressed excitement about being part of a health system that shares the same focus on excellent, family-centered care and a strong commitment to the health of the local community.
While Skagit Pediatrics’ name will change to Skagit Regional Health –Little Mountain Pediatrics, patients will continue to see many of the same familiar faces and experience the same unwavering commitment to care that has defined Skagit Pediatrics for the past four decades. “The greatest joy as a pediatrician is the relationships you build with families. We have also had the privilege of living and raising our own families in the community where we practice. As such, the families we take care of are not just our patients, they are our friends and neighbors,” said Dr. Levine.
The integration aims to blend the legacy of Skagit Pediatrics with the resources and expertise offered by Skagit Regional Health.
"I hope our legacy is that our community knows that there is a place where people can bring their children and know that they will be heard and get quality care.”
Andrea Lowe, MD, PhD
• Sleep Disorders in Children – Allan Damian, MD | Sleep Medicine
• Pediatric Dermatology – Michael Barton, MD | Dermatology
• Summer Safety – Cheryl de Silva, MD | Pediatrics
• Autism – Ashleigh Adkins, DNP-FNP, ARNP | Family Medicine
“I am happy that we will be able to continue all the things we've worked hard to set up over the years, but also have the opportunity to learn from the SRH pediatricians and have the increased resources of the entire Skagit Regional Health organization,” said Skagit Pediatrics physician Andrea Lowe, MD, PhD. She continued, “I hope our legacy is that our community knows that there is a place where people can bring their children and know that they will be heard and get quality care.”
Skagit Regional Health – Little Mountain Pediatrics is SRH’s third pediatric location, joining the practices at Riverbend (in Mount Vernon) and in Arlington.
Appointments for newborns through age 18 are available six days per week at Skagit Regional Health – Little Mountain Pediatrics, by calling 360-428-2622.
• Emily Bianconi, ARNP
• Ariel Garcia, MD
• Kendra Graham, PA-C
• Holly Henson, ARNP
• Katherine LePere, ARNP
• Richard Levine, MD
• Andrea Lowe, MD, PhD
• Elizabeth McCrank, PA-C
• Sarah Strandjord, MD, MS
Skagit Regional Clinics
Riverbend Pediatrics
2320 Freeway Drive
Mount Vernon, WA 98273
Skagit Regional Health
Arlington Pediatrics
875 Wesley Street, Suite 130
Arlington, WA 98223
Skagit Regional Health
Little Mountain Pediatrics
2101 Little Mountain Lane
Mount Vernon, WA 98274
Skagit Regional Health has recently acquired the Ion Robotic Bronchoscopy System – the latest advancement in technology for accessing and diagnosing tumors in the lung.
According to the World Health Organization, lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in the world, and while smoking is the number-one cause, there are several environmental causes –leaving many more at risk than just current and former smokers. There are rarely any symptoms in early-stage lung cancer, when it is most treatable, so it can easily go unnoticed until it is more advanced.
The best way to catch any form of cancer early is through regular screening. This includes low-dose CT scanning for lung cancer. Now, there are new advancements for the accurate and timely diagnosis of lung cancer available right here at Skagit Regional Health (SRH). In fact, SRH is the third location in Washington state to use this advanced technology.
The Ion Robotic Bronchoscopy System is a minimally invasive biopsy tool that physicians are using to better reach tumors in the lungs and thus diagnose lung cancer with greater accuracy. Since lung cancer is most treatable when detected early, this improved accessibility to tumors translates to a greater ability to treat lung cancer.
“It gives us a means of determining if a lung nodule is cancer or not,” said Richard Leone, MD, PhD, FACS, thoracic surgeon at Skagit Regional Health. “Lung cancer is usually not symptomatic until it’s very far advanced and not treatable. The advantage is to be able to identify if people have lung masses before it has spread to a point that it’s not treatable. Lung cancer, when we identify it early, is very treatable and very curable – early-stage lung cancer is up to 80-90% curable.”
Traditionally, testing for lung cancer is done through a needle biopsy procedure. The reach of the needle biopsy is limited and not all areas of the lung are accessible using this method.
“Another advantage (of Ion) is we can get to almost any location in the lung safely and that’s not always the case with a needle biopsy,” said Dr. Leone. “Sometimes the tumor will be near a blood vessel or the heart and with this (new) technology, we can get there.”
Dr. Leone went on to describe the procedure and how important the team is to the whole process. His team consists of an anesthesiologist, specially trained endoscopy technicians and endoscopy
“Our team has the training, experience and expertise to perform minimally invasive biopsy, staging and treatment, all close to home.”Richard Leone, MD, PhD, FACS Thoracic Surgeon at Skagit Regional Health
nurses, a pathologist and a cytopathology technician. Immediately upon removal of the specimen, Dr. Leone completes a rapid onsite evaluation of specimens collected with the pathologist who is present. Rapid testing upon collection affords an increased detection rate, an additional step in improving the path to diagnosis and treatment.
“This is a centerpiece of our thoracic surgery service,” said Dr. Leone. “This robotic bronchoscope allows us to steer down these tiny airways in a way that we couldn’t before.”
Many patients diagnosed with lung cancer then undergo minimally-invasive lung surgery, utilizing Skagit Regional Health’s da Vinci® Xi™ Surgical System. This represents state-of-the-art treatment, all available at SRH.
“Our team has the training, experience and expertise to perform minimally invasive biopsy, staging and treatment, all close to home,” said Dr. Leone.
Skagit Regional Health is proud to provide an integrated robotics program within a multi-disciplinary team approach to lung cancer treatment. Oncology, Radiation Oncology, Thoracic Surgery and Radiology are all within one integrated healthcare system, streamlining your healthcare and keeping it close to home.
Are you at risk for lung cancer?
If you are over 50, a current or former smoker, and/or have other risk factors such as asbestos or radon exposure, history of lung disease, history of cancer or a family history of lung cancer, talk with your health care provider about lung cancer screening at Skagit Regional Health.
2023 ANNUAL
The mission of the Skagit Regional Health Foundation is to raise, manage and distribute funds to assure the continued availability of quality healthcare services and programs at Skagit Regional Health. The Foundation will foster awareness of and community support for Skagit Regional Health through the involvement of the people it serves.
Skagit Regional Health Foundation
P.O. Box 1376
Mount Vernon, WA 98273
360-428-2140
Office location: 120 S. 13th Street
Mount Vernon, WA 98274
Nonprofit tax ID #: 94-3078550
Like us on Facebook at Facebook.com/ SkagitRegionalHealthFoundation
Volunteers are the key to the Skagit Regional Health Foundation’s efforts in securing philanthropy. We are pleased to acknowledge the efforts of our trustees who unselfishly give their time and resources as an example to all and who provide leadership in the Foundation’s prudent stewardship of gifts.
Bobbi Ahrenius
Zach Barborinas President
Katie Biringer
Lesha Boucher
Travis Coulter Secretary/Cardiac Cares Campaign Chair
Linda Frizzell Executive Director
Viry Delgado
Laura Fisher
Brett Fontes
Duane Henson
Alicia Huschka
Assistant Treasurer
Brian Ivie
Katie Jungquist Vice President/ Cancer Care
Wendy Ragusa Stewardship and Annual Fund Manager
Aldi Kllogjeri Treasurer
Dr. Rick Leone
Mike Lervick
Mike Marken
Evelyn Morse
Holly Nielsen
Larry Otos
Kylee Dowe Development Associate
Dale Ragan
Scott Railton
Aaron Robbins
Angela Speer Usyk
Brent Thompson Vice President
Kris Wollan
sincere
We apologize for any incorrect or misspelled names that may appear in any of our listings. Please help us maintain accurate donor records by notifying the Foundation office of any errors by calling 360-814-8376. Donations listed were received from January 1, 2023 through December 31, 2023. Donors designated their giving to the following funds: CANCER CARE
THE BREAST INSTITUTE
Arrow Insulation & Pest Solutions
Bulldog Volleyball
Booster Club
Ken & Samantha Harris
Cindy Hencheroff La Conner Volleyball Booster Club
Riverside Health Club Sedro-Woolley Riding Club
Dr. Mary Bavaro
Cindy Cohen
Patrick Conner
Elaine Gilbreath
Michael Gilleland
Terry Halemba
Kristen Hobbs
Chase & Cassandra King
Jeane McCarrie
Mount Vernon
High School ASB
Rick & Debbie Pilling
John & Kay Raupp
Sally Richendrfer
The Skagit Regional Health Foundation enters 2024 with a sincere appreciation of our donors, as well as profound optimism for the future of healthcare within our community. Our mission to raise, manage and distribute funds assuring quality healthcare throughout the dynamic Skagit Regional Health system continues to be a success because of you, the donor.
Less than two years ago, this Foundation committed to an aggressive three-year campaign raising $3 million for the Skagit Regional Health Heart and Vascular Institute. This was a goal set as partners to complete the healthcare system's $6 million capital improvement project providing state-ofthe-art cardiovascular care to the region. Our community responded to the Foundation’s call to action with an exceedingly generous answer of raising $4,904,271 in 21 months.
After many years of living in this community, I continue to be astonished at the giving spirit of those around us. There are truly no words to express our gratitude for all donations, big and small, that helped make our campaign a success. Due to the unwavering commitment of time, talent and treasure of our donors, the Skagit Regional Health Foundation will enter its 36th year steadfast in our mission to improve healthcare throughout the region.
On behalf of the Skagit Regional Health Foundation Board of Trustees and staff, thank you for your continued trust and faith in us. We are looking forward to the future of healthcare in our community.
Christine Riley
Skagit Community Foundation
– The Elliott W. Johnson Endowment
Skagit Woodstock
Music Festival
Stanwood Eagles Auxiliary
Arthur & Kay Stendal
Scott & Diana Wharton
Peter & Melissa Wold
In Memory of Ken Crockett
Mike & Jodi Dynes
Dawneen Pearce
In Memory of Cathy Dutton
Merwyn Dutton
In Memory of Benito Gonzalez
Sarah Mejia
In Memory of Gary Hartnett
Kathy Hartnett
In Memory of Doris Heyntsen
Sandi Paciotti
In Memory of Paige Marken
James & Patricia Close
In Memory of Erin Moberg
Mary Hudson
In Memory of Dennis & Judith Pearce
Jeffrey & Linda Pearce
In Memory of Dana Pearson
Donna Johnson
In Memory of David Schink
Helga Schink
In Memory of James Stewart
Ann Stewart
CARDIAC CARES
CAPITAL CAMPAIGN
Jon & Susan Aarstad
Jensen & Bobbi Ahrenius
AmazonSmile Foundation
Charlotte Ambrose
Angela Anderson
Kelli Anderson
Jim & Ann Barborinas
Zachary & Adele Barborinas
Kristen Beck
Joe & Kate Biringer
Lyall & Judy Bishop
Julie Blazek & Jacque Beamer
Rich Block
BNSF Railway Foundation
Leslie Bock
Thomas & Lesha Boucher
John L. Bouslog
Scott & Laura Breckenridge
Chuck & Rebecca Broadbent
Laird & Bryce Dickie
Justin & Kylee Dowe
Mike & Tracey Elfstrom
Dr. John & Marie Erbstoeszer
Dr. Jeffrey & Priscilla Feld
Gary & Stephanie Fiedler
Bud & Gloria Fish
Dan & Laura Fisher
Tracy Fisher
Brett & Laurie Fontes
Karen Forster
Jeff & Linda Frizzell
Steve & Tami Gilbert
glassybaby White Light Fund
Herb & Theresa Goldston
Bianca Gordon
Dr. Joshua Griggs
Lisa-Marie Gustafson
Janis Hatch
Roger & Kerri Helgeson
Jeff & Linda Hendricks
Rod & Molly Hendricks
Duane & Lynnette Henson
Tammy & John Hill
Lucas Hoekstra
Phil & Leanne Holboy
Briana Hovsepian
Erin Hurley Il Granaio Authentic Italian Restaurant
Margret Ingimarsdottir
Ashlynn Ishikawa
Brian & Debi Ivie
Rudy Jimenez
David Johnson
Teresa Johnson
Thomas Johnson
Bob & Gina Jungquist
Steve & Katie Jungquist
Hugh & Wendy Kendrick
James Kenney
Rudy & Kathleen Kerkvliet
Christopher Kiel
Nikki Klinger
Toby & Michelle Knutzen
Kooiker Foundation
Roxy Larson
Diane LaVoy
Tess Lentz
Dr. Richard & Katherine Leone
Michael Lervick & Dr. Oksana Miller
Bruce & Debra Lisser
Jonathan & Melissa Lyons
Anna MacKinnon
Michael Marken
Andrew Matty & Tara Cunningham
Zach Barborinas President SkagitRegional Health Foundation
Dr. Gary & Susan Brown
Lisa Buller
Robert & Tamara Cesena
Michelle Chambers
Charles & Patricia Clausen
Jeff & Mary June Curtis
Sandra Curtis
Louis & Dominique Dailly
Julie Davies
Bill & Jan DeHon
Teresa McGlothlin
Microsoft Matching Gifts
Program
Ron & Cheryllynn Milhomme
Mike Moe & Beth Ashley
Bruce Moberg & Denise Decker
Sara Moreno
Jim & Evelyn Morse
Kirsten Morse
Diane Morton & Wendy Cobb
The Skagit Regional Health Foundation’s Cardiac Cares Capital Campaign raised more than $4 million to purchase innovative diagnostic imaging equipment for the Skagit Regional Health Heart and Vascular Institute’s cardiac catheterization labs.
This $3 million campaign goal was the second-most ambitious fundraising initiative in the Foundation’s 35-year history. While the campaign was initially scheduled to continue through 2024, an anonymous gift of $3 million from grateful patients secured the completion of the campaign. This gave the Foundation the ability to donate significantly more to this important patient care project.
Campaign Chair Travis Coulter said, “Important healthcare projects like this one are funded by individuals, families, businesses, service organizations and special events. The community support of this campaign has been humbling and admirable. This gift from a local couple reaffirms the “why” we live here. If the gift was five dollars or $3 million, it matters, and the Foundation is so very grateful.”
The Foundation is delighted to honor 22 leadership gifts of $10,000 and more to name the center, two patient lobbies, three catheterization labs and 10 observation rooms. More than 250 individuals, family foundations, local business
partners and corporate charities participated financially with new gifts and commitments to support this capital campaign.
What does this mean for our patients and providers?
For patients who experience heart disease, unusual heart rhythms or vascular issues, the cardiac catheterization lab is a likely destination where interventional cardiologists, electrophysiologists and interventional radiologists provide advancements in diagnosis and treatment.
These important modernizations in equipment and facility will increase the access and availability of quality cardiac care for emergent and planned procedures. The catheterization labs have seen an increase in the number of procedures, treating more than 3,600 patients from 15 different zip codes in 2021.
“Thanks to the generosity of our donors, we have reached a tremendous conclusion to the campaign and we are so grateful,” said Linda Frizzell, Executive Director of the Skagit Regional Health Foundation.
Jim Nemeth
Matt & Megan O’Bryan
Steve & Jane Olson
Justin Oram
Carter Otos
Larry & Lisa Otos
PACCAR Foundation
Sandi Paciotti
PayPal Giving Fund
Joan Pfeiffer
Greg & Michelle Powell
Dale & Susan Ragan
Roger & Wendy Ragusa
Scott & Deborah Railton
Tim & Nancy Raschko
Dennis & Janiece Reilly
Elizabeth & Frank Repplier
John & Berdean Ring
Karen Russell
Dave Ryberg & Joan Penney
Helga Schink
Kathie Schroeder
Shad & Adele Skinner
Maryl Skjei
Dr. Robert & Carrie Stewart
Bill & Krista Thomas
Eric & Laura Torseth
Melissa Van Straten
Skagit Community Foundation
– The Fisher Family Donor
Advised Fund
Skagit Rotary Club
Swinomish Tribal Community
Michele Vendiola
The Skagit Regional Health Foundation Board of Trustees and Staff presented a $4 million check for the Skagit Regional Health Heart and Vascular Institute.
Danny & Stephanie Vera
Phyllis Walter
Richard & Karen Watkins
Barbara Webb
Craig & Becky Wells
Joanie Whitener
Gina Williams
Paul & Gina Williams
Blaine & Kristine Wollan
Maury & Susan Wright
Michael & Shawna Yengich
Mark Young
Tamra Young
Don Zimmer
In Honor of Dr. Ramy Hanna
Richard & Bonnie Cavell
Mary Roetcisoender
In Memory of Charles & Katherine Ashley
Mike Moe & Beth Ashley
In Memory of Kathleen Axelson
Maynard & Laurie Axelson
In Memory of Geoffrey Botsford Wilson
Bruce & Cynthia Hubert
In Memory of Gregg Carder
Keith & Christie Peterson
In Memory of Alex Coble
Clay & Virginia Learned
The Skagit Regional Health Foundation is forever grateful to our 2023 donors who generously gave gifts totaling more than $4,298,650. These gifts were received in the form of cash, stock, pledges, event proceeds, bequests and gifts-in-kind.
In turn, the Foundation was pleased to provide the following grants totaling $1,164,887 to support programs and services at Skagit Regional Health.
$1,000,000 Heart and Vascular Institute
$24,196
Cancer Care Patient Assistance Fund and needs in the Cancer Care program
$5,333 Children’s Therapy Program
$4,995 Cardiac Rehabilitation Program
$11,000
Wound Healing Centers at both Skagit Valley and Cascade Valley hospitals
$73,172
Family Birth Center at Cascade Valley Hospital
$365 Graduate Medical Education program
In Memory of Willard Cox Jr.
Gerald & Susan Christensen
In Memory of Margaret Day
Margaret Utgard
In Memory of Richard Dixon
Carolyn Dixon
In Memory of Henry Dykstra
Mike & Jodi Dynes
In Memory of Rick Epting
Bekky Love
In Memory of Charles Gordon
Huntly & Sandee Gordon
In Memory of Neil Hall
Susan Riedel
In Memory of Jonathan Handy
Frank & Lynn Handy
In Memory of Clarence Howard
Gerald & Susan Christensen
In Memory of Miles Jackson
Joe & Linda White
In Memory of John Kamb Sr.
Huntly & Sandee Gordon
In Memory of Chris Kane
Annette McDonald
In Memory of Hope Martin
Roxy Larson
In Memory of Corey Mendoza
Jyl Bruns
In Memory of Gary Methner
Roger & Wendy Ragusa
In Memory of Rich Meyer
Lois Meyer
In Memory of Marinus “Rinie” Rouw
Ron & Rita Vanderstoep
In Memory of Heather Schols
Scott Fowler
Michael & Kimberly Nicolai
In Memory of Susan Schuh
Gerald & Susan Christensen
In Memory of Kevin Sprouse
La June Bromels
Mike & Jodi Dynes
Derek & Julie Floyd
Jeff & Linda Frizzell
Chrissy Sprouse
Lane Sprouse
Tatum Sprouse
Ben & Sloan Winkes
Maury & Sue Wright
In Memory of William Swanland
Gerald & Susan Christensen
In Memory of VonRay Waldrop
Lloyd & Shirley Watkinson
In Memory of Billy W. Webb
Barbara Webb
Benefitting the Cardiac Cares
Capital Campaign
Absolute Plumbing, Inc.
Theodore Anstensen
Garrett Beedle
Kyle Butterfield
Christopher Callison
Catchmore Charters
Chad Fisher Construction, LLC
Travis & Kelly Coulter
David Dent
Brett & Laurie Fontes
Foothills Toyota
Jerry Gilbertson
Eric Hanson
Keith & Tami Hofkamp
Holiday Sports
Honda of Burlington
Iconix Waterworks
Curtis Isaacson
Jerry Smith Chevrolet
Keystone Building Services
LLC
Trent Kies
Roger & Lou Ann Knutzen
Lopez Island Creamery
Zach Miller
Chad & Dani Morrison
North Coast Design LLC
Pacific Tank & Body
Jeff Prestmo
San Juan Marine Freight & Services, Inc
Skagit Auto Licensing, Inc.
The Office Tavern
Tom-N-Jerrys Boat Center Inc.
Brad Watson
Welch Brothers Construction
Jim Whitcher
CASCADE VALLEY HOSPITAL
Jayme Arthurs
Jola Barnett
Kathleen Grauman
Brenda Hubin-Price
Mary & Kenneth Levesque
Grant Massey
Michelle Sand
In Memory of Ray McClure
David Duskin
CCU/ICU
Julie Burdick
Scott & Deborah Railton
In Memory of John Mjoen
$15,000
$30,826
Other patient programs and services
Emergency Room Clothing Banks at both Cascade Valley and Skagit Valley hospitals
In Memory of Leighton Wood
Roger & Wendy Ragusa
In Memory of James Zimmerman
Mike & Anita Roozen
Charles & Pam Eger
In Memory of James M. Parker
Linda Parker
CHAPEL
Dennis & Janiece Reilly
The Skagit Regional Health Foundation’s 21st annual "Have a Heart for Kids" fundraiser held in January 2024 raised more than $5,085 for the healthcare system’s Children’s Therapy Program. Event proceeds help to purchase muchneeded therapy equipment and home therapy supplies for program patients.
The Foundation’s Board of Trustees and staff extend a heartfelt “thank you” to our event partner Bill Constantine, owner of Il Granaio Authentic Italian Restaurant in Mount Vernon. Constantine generously donates dine-in/dineout meal vouchers to the Foundation, which then allows donors to purchase vouchers to enjoy a meal at the restaurant and support the program. The Foundation sincerely appreciates patrons who purchased meal vouchers and/or made direct donations to the program fund. These gifts of assistance make a significant impact on our Children’s Therapy Program patients, their care team members and their families.
Mark & Julie Anderson
Drs. Oscar Briseno & Monira Vakil
Dr. Gary & Susan Brown
Robert & Tamara Cesena
Gerald & Susan Christensen
John Drotts
Larry & Kathy Ellestad
Epic Systems
Bud & Gloria Fish
Bette Fitzgerald
Emily Francis
Karen Fure
Jerry & Sharon Hayes
Erin Kaui
Michael Lervick & Dr. Oksana
Miller
Howard & Darlene Libbey
Bruce & Debra Lisser
Dan & Jan Olson
Terry & Peggy Olson
Lavonne Parker
Greg & Michelle Powell
Roger & Wendy Ragusa
Scott & Deborah Railton
Stan Relyea
Michelle Roddy
Linda Ross
Kerrie Steffan
Beverly Vander Voet
Stephen & Stephanie Whetsell
Blaine & Kristine Wollan
Mike & Jeanne Youngquist
In Memory of Duane Clizbe
Charlotte Clizbe
In Memory of Kevin Clizbe
Charlotte Clizbe
In Memory of David Enders
Julie & Don Erickson
Craig & Maureen Homchick
Miles Sand & Gravel Company
Robert & Tamara Cesena
DR. MAYNARD JOHNSON
In Memory of Erik Call
John & Susan Meyer
In Memory of Mel Call
John & Susan Meyer
In Memory of Janet Dahl
John & Susan Meyer
In Memory of Carol Garberg
John & Susan Meyer
In Memory of John Kamb Sr.
John & Susan Meyer
In Memory of Susan Schuh
John & Susan Meyer
In Memory of Pat Thompson
John & Sheelagh King
John & Susan Meyer
In Memory of Leighton Wood
John & Susan Meyer
Skagit Regional Health physical therapist Karen Pederson works with a young patient.
Mike Dyberg & Dr. Connie Davis
Lonnie & Jeannine Lyon
Joan Pfeiffer
Dennis & Janiece Reilly
Vernon & Tammy Ringhouse
Tami Schnell
James Sloan
Rama Tiwari
In Honor of Stevie Breckenridge
Scott & Laura Breckenridge
In Honor of Lily Ann Marie Caswell
Anthony & Dani Cox
In Honor of Oliver Scott Caswell
Anthony & Dani Cox
In Honor of Georgia Grace Connolly
Easton & Hailie Connolly
In Honor of William Nash
Jaromin
Ryan & Aly Jaromin
In Honor of Waylon Murry
McGillivray
Tom & Karen Snyder
In Honor of Leonel Yvan Rincon
Mendiola
Marcos Rincon
FESTIVAL OF TREES FUND-A-DREAM PATRONS
Jensen & Bobbi Ahrenius
Jim & Ann Barborinas
Sarah Bear
Drs. Oscar Briseno & Monira Vakil
Craig & Carrie Cammock
Robert & Tamara Cesena
Gerald & Susan Christensen
Robert & Sara Coallier
Robert & Deborah Connolly
Paul & Annika Craig
Steven & Sarah Dahl
Felix & Mavis Estrada
Chad & Colleen Fisher
Jerome & Karen Fisher
Brett & Laurie Fontes
Zoee Force
Michelle Gjersee
Jared Hanson
Roger & Kerri Helgeson
Keith & Tami Hofkamp
Brian & Debi Ivie
Bruce & Debra Lisser
Brian & Shannon Lloyd
Jean-Claude & Sarah Marin
Dave & Kathy Mariner
Dennis & Connie Milliken
Steve & Wendy Misencik
Nysether Family Foundation
Jasper & Kat Nysether
It felt like coming home. That is what one guest shared while viewing the brightly colored and beautifully decorated Christmas trees that adorned the Saint Joseph Center in Mount Vernon this last November.
“When I close my eyes and I think of Festival of Trees, I think of it here,” reminisced a long-time Foundation supporter.
The comfort and safety of home was an important theme that percolated throughout the festival weekend. Most importantly was its reference to having the best in cardiac care right here “at home” in our community for our patients.
The Skagit Regional Health Foundation’s 35th Annual Festival of Trees raised a remarkable $501,574 during Thanksgiving weekend 2023. Proceeds support the Foundation’s Cardiac Cares Capital Campaign. This successful fundraiser is included in the nearly $5 million raised to date, surpassing the campaign’s initial $3 million goal!
“To see the success of this event is truly to appreciate the generosity of our amazing community coming together to support a vital patient service,” said Linda Frizzell, Executive Director of the Skagit Regional Health Foundation.
“We are grateful to our sponsors, bidders, buyers and volunteers who all were a part of the success of this event,” said Laura Fisher, who co-chaired with fellow Foundation trustee Bobbi Ahrenius.
In partnership with Title Sponsor Peoples Bank , the Foundation hosted three events during the Festival of Trees weekend in the Saint Joseph Center including the Gala and Auction on Friday, November 24 sponsored by Banner Bank and Dwayne Lane’s Skagit Subaru; the “Santa and Friends” concert on Saturday, November 25 sponsored by Whidbey Coffee; and two Family Festival Days November 25 and 26, sponsored by Pacific Woodtech.
In Downtown Mount Vernon, festively decorated mini trees in 2-, 3- and 4-foot sizes stood proudly in business windows. Heritage Bank served as the sponsor of the Mini Tree Stroll and Online Auction where guests placed bids on the mini trees during the month of November.
The Friday Gala and Auction was attended by more than 500 guests and featured the live auction of 23 spectacularly decorated Christmas trees and a variety of live auction packages, a tree raffle and
designer wreath sales. The Sitka, Alaska Fishing Trip for Four; A Trip to Nashville and the tree titled “A Construction Christmas” sponsored by Foothills Toyota and designed by Matt and Jessica Helgeson, were the high-bid auction items.
Several honors were announced at the Designer Appreciation event sponsored by Blade Chevrolet:
Designers’ Choice – Making Spirits Bright designed by Brad Sloan, Jessie Bennett and Deanna Babington
President’s Choice and Most Original Tree Theme – A Construction Christmas designed by Matt and Jessica Helgeson
Most Traditional Theme – A Very Berry Pacific Northwest Christmas designed by Renee Stone, Dr. Jenny Benson, Dr. Michal Whiton and Jammie Novak
Best Children’s Theme – Barbie’s Winter Closet designed by Demi Daman, Donna Pulver, Virginia Learned and Derek Pulver
Public Day Choice, Designer Appreciation Sponsor Choice and Team Spirit Award–Gingerbread Delight designed by Holly Tobiason, Debbie Connolly and Jennifer Olmsted
Best Tree Topper – It’s a Woolley Winter Wonderland designed by Amy Cann and Elizabeth Friedl
Thanksgiving Weekend
November 29, 30 and December 1, 2024
Saint Joseph Center
215 North 15th Street
Mount Vernon
“A Construction Christmas,” designed by Matt and Jessica Helgeson and sponsored by Foothills Toyota, won honors for President’s Choice and Most Original Tree Theme.
Mark & Vickie Nysether
Dr. Anisa & Michael Pea
Dale & Susan Ragan
Catherine Romine
Kim Rubenstein
Richard & Tami Sakuma
Tanya Sanger
Tami Schnell
Kelly Schols
Gary & Judy Shand
Tyler & Jill Steinman
Mary Tyler
Susan Uker
Danny & Stephanie Vera
Sharon Cole Waldschmidt
Brett & Kelli White
Kevin & Melissa Wolfe
James & Bailey Workman
Marc & Cindi Wright
Maury & Sue Wright
Paul & Taylor Wright
Brandon & Laho Zachmeyer
Dr. Rob Zwick
LIVE AUCTION PATRONS
Gerald & Susan Christensen
Robert & Sara Coallier
Travis & Kelly Coulter
Gary & Stephanie Fiedler
Chad & Colleen Fisher
Dan & Laura Fisher
Jerome & Karen Fisher
Tammy Force
Zoee Force
Emily Griffin
Brian & Debi Ivie
Kari Kennedy
Clay & Virginia Learned
Jasper & Kat Nysether
Mark & Vickie Nysether
Keith & Christie Peterson
John & Kim Piazza
Dale & Susan Ragan
Juliet Ragusa
Jeff & Amber Rhodes
Jim & Mary Scott
Brett & Kelli White
Alicia Wiseman
Kevin & Melissa Wolfe
Whidbey Coffee
FESTIVAL OF TREES SPONSORS
A-1 Mobile Lock & Key, Inc.
Anheuser-Busch Sales & Distributing
Amerigroup Corporation
Angell & Company, Inc.
Arne Svendsen Trucking Co.
Baird Foundation, Inc.
Banner Bank
Bellevue Healthcare
Bellingham Anesthesia Associates
Blade Chevrolet & RVs
Gerald & Susan Christensen
Dwayne Lane’s Skagit Subaru
Foothills Toyota
Gilbertson Funeral Home
Hawthorne Funeral Home
and Memorial Park
Heritage Bank
John Piazza Jr. Construction & Remodeling
Labcorp
Lisser & Associates
Moss Adams, LLP
North Coast Credit Union
Pacific Party Canopies
Pacific Woodtech Corporation
Peoples Bank
Phillips 66
Primac Electric
Private Lending Investments/
Jeff & Shelly Langness
Rallye Auto Sales
SaviBank
SB&C, Ltd.
Helga Schink
Sierra Pacific Industries
Skagit Radiology Inc., P.S.
Skagit Regional Health
Skagit Regional Health Division of Cardiology
• Dr. Oscar Briseno
• Dr. Ramy Hanna
• Dr. Kamol Lohavanichbutr
• Dr. Jammie Menetrey
• Dr. Vidhu Paliwal
• Dr. Bhrigu Rishi Parmar
• Dr. Yelena Rosenberg
• Dr. Michael Salama
• Dr. Robert Stewart
• Dr. Sanjeev Vaderah
Skagit Regional Health Surgical Specialties
• Dr. Edwin Chang
• Dr. Weslee Chew
• Dr. Joel Dean
• Dr. Joshua Hawkins
• Dr. Richard Leone
• Dr. Allison Porter
Soroptimist International of Burlington
Sound Cedar
State Farm Insurance Agents
• Carol Lawson
• Brad Methner
• Keith Sorestad
Strauss Jewelers
Swinomish Casino & Lodge
TeamHealth
Testing & Commissioning
Services
The Family of Dave Hansen
Thomas Cuisine
TRICO Companies, LLC
VSH Certified Public Accountants, PLLC
WECU
Whidbey Coffee
Williams & Nulle, PLLC
World Kinect Energy Services
Wycoff Insurance Agency, Inc.
Zach Barborinas
Team Tree Sponsors
Jim & Ann Barborinas
Drs. Oscar Briseno & Monira Vakil
Jeff & Melissa Brown
Reesa Compton
Roger & Stephanie Coon
Jeff & Mary June Curtis
Drs. Paul & Keri Halgren
Michael & Liz Mast
Matt & Grace McMorrow
Dan & Kathleen Petrzelka
Pat & Kris Roney
Madeline Roozen Cook
Spencer & Alana Roozen
Jeff & Debbie Scott
The Learning Ladder
Skagit Regional Health
Leadership Team Tree Sponsors
Greg & Angela Abbott
Jola Barnett
Julie Blazek & Jacque Beamer
Chuck & Rebecca Broadbent
Peter & Laurel Browning
Lisa Buller
Robert & Tamera Cesena
Melinda Comnick
Mike & Tracey Elfstrom
Jeff & Linda Frizzell
Jacob & Brienne Gahan
John Gates
Steve & Tami Gilbert
Bianca Gordon
Donald Gosnell
Ben & Jenny Gunn
Dr. Mary Ann Hink
Brian & Debi Ivie
Bruce & Debra Lisser
Jonathan & Melissa Lyons
Jean & Jeff Miller
Worth & Lisa Norton
Mathew & Jammie Novak
Justin Oram
Roger & Wendy Ragusa
Steve & Kari Ranten
Michelle Sand
Tami Schnell
Kathie Schroeder
Marcus Simonson
Shad & Adele Skinner
James Sloan
Kerrie Steffan
Matthew Vaughn
Richard & Karen Watkins
Joanie Whitener
Peter & Melissa Wold
FESTIVAL OF TREES UNDERWRITERS
All Phase Heating & Air Conditioning
Baird Foundation, Inc.
Ken & Laure Bergsma
Boetsch Nash & Hall
Joyce Cole
CorroHealth
Dr. John Dew
Esary Roofing
Gary & Stephanie Fiedler
Global Credit Union
Hansen’s Furniture
Hughes Farms
Janicki Industries
Dr. Allen Johnson
JP Automotive
Kiwanis Club of Mount Vernon
Kooiker Foundation
Linde Insurance
Brian & Shannon Lloyd
Mexico Café
Modern Cleaners
Mount Vernon Carpet Center
Nordic Temperature Control
Rolfson’s Home Furnishings
San Juan Dental Laboratory, Inc.
Santa’s Elves
SaviBank
Skagit Farmers Supply
Jeff & Stacy Stewart
Dr. Edwin & Brit Stickle
Stowes Shoes & Clothing
The Net Drive In
The Truss Company & Building Supply
WAFD/Duane Henson
Wallace Farms
FESTIVAL OF TREES GIFTS-IN-KIND
Bobbi Ahrenius
Alaska Airlines
Nancy Angel
Arlington Hardware
Brandon & Kate Atkinson
Zach & Adele Barborinas
Joe & Kate Biringer
Charles Fine Jewelry
Cheryl Bonsen
Central Moving & Storage
Chad Fisher Construction
Geoff & Jill Christensen
Travis & Kelly Coulter
Credo Graphics
Troy & Demi Daman
District Brewing
Eagle Haven Winery
Karissa Fiedler
Cory & Christy Fisher
Frieda Fuhrmann
Stephanie Gage
Matt & Jessica Helgeson
Herc Rentals
Il Granaio Authentic Italian Restaurant
Desiree Lange
William & Julia Lange
Leavenworth Rental Cabins
Leah & Lex Ludtke
Dean Meyers
Mister T’s Awards & Embroidery
James Ramos
Reel Class Charters
Christi Robinson
Paul & DiAnn Sager
Brandon & Heather Schuh
Skagit Aggregates, LLC
Skagit Publishing
Skagit Valley Academy of Dance
Brad Sloan
Jim & Lacey Spane
Jonathon & Renee Stone
Brooke Summers
Tami Sutter
The Coffee Barn
The Olive Garden
Steve & Holly Tobiason
Train Wreck Bar & Grill
Daryl & Kim Turner
VECA Electric
Rosemary Weimer
Wells Nursery
Wilson Framing
Stacey & Jean Wilson
YOU Salon
FINE ART
Lisa Marie Albers
Jimmy & Miriam Barger
Robert & Tamara Cesena
John Ebner
Mathew & Jammie Novak
Karl Stansbury
FOUNDATION SUPPORT
Greg & Angela Abbott
Monica Baca
Yvonne Christos
Melinda Comnick
Epic Systems
Annaluz Fox
Phillip Garcia
John Gates
Michelle Gjersee
Donald Gosnell
Steven & Beth Greatorex
Narajanti Handaja
Jodi Hao
Billie Lautenbach
William Jay Lechnick
Timothy Lewis
Bruce Mathey
John & Victoria May
Medix Corp
Worth & Lisa Norton
Carter Otos
PayPal Giving Fund
Maggie Potter
Rick & Terre Scappini
Jennifer Sheahan
Kyle Smith
Tisbest Philanthropy
Thakou Vu
Katrina White-Pritt
Darla Wihelm
GRADUATE MEDICAL EDUCATION FUND
John Dew
Tammy & John Hill
Dr. Mary Ramsbottom
INPATIENT KIDNEY DIALYSIS
Patricia Good
Tammy & John Hill
Laura Lasota
In Memory of Dorothy Conners
Lois Powers
In Memory of Hoke Hodgins
Linda Parker
In Memory of Tammi Hopkins
Chris & Jeanne Skeels
In Memory of Ray & Winnie
Houser
Mark Houser & Joan Allmaras
Karen Mauden
Skagit Regional Health employees gave more than $60,000 to the Skagit Regional Health Foundation during the 2024 Employee Giving Campaign in March. And made their mark they did!
The annual workplace giving program allows Skagit Regional Health employees to support the patient care fund of their choice through donations of cash, monthly payroll deductions or paid time off.
The Foundation’s Board of Trustees and staff truly appreciate the generosity of Skagit Regional Health employees.
In Memory of Miles Jackson
Joe & Linda White
In Memory of Leah Otis
David & Beverly Gufler
In Memory of Linda Pickett
Roger & Wendy Ragusa
In Memory of Don Ross
Lois Powers
MENTAL HEALTH CARE
Angelica Hernandez
Tammy & John Hill
Christina Jones
Tina Leach
Amber Maxwell
Steve & Kari Ranten
Gina Smith
Terry Terrell
Erin Welcome
In Memory of Erna Berghuys
Mark, Remi, Kito & Yetta Vorobik
Arrow Insulation & Pest Solutions
Baird Management
- Jeff Stewart, CFA
Banner Bank
Biringer Nursery, LLC
BNBuilders
Cascade Natural Gas
Chad Fisher Construction, LLC
Chandler’s Group
Crothall Healthcare
Dwayne Lane’s Skagit Subaru Electrocom Sound
& Communication Systems
Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center
G&W Commercial Flooring
Heritage Bank
HomePlace Memory Care
In Memory of Paige Marken
Josephine Caring Community
Lisser & Associates, PLLC
Maple Wood Farm, Inc.
Marathon Petroleum
Moss Adams
Mount Vernon Police Services
Guild
Mount Vernon Professional Fire Fighters
Optimum Properties, LLC
Peoples Bank
Piper Sandler & Co.
Rehema for Kids
Retail Lockbox
SaviBank
SB&C, Ltd.
Skagit Law Group
Skagit Regional Health
Skagit Transportation
Skagit Valley Hospital Auxiliary
Smiley Insurance Services
St. Clair Enterprises Inc./FedEx
Ground
State Farm Insurance Agents
• Carol Lawson
• Brad Methner
• Keith Sorestad
The Office Tavern
Gary and Anne Thompson
Thomas Cuisine
TRICO Companies, LLC
USI Insurance
VSH Certified Public Accountants, PLLC
WAFD Insurance Group
Washington Spray Foam
Where The Heart Is Assisted
Living
Whidbey Coffee
Woodcraft Wood Floors Inc.
World Kinect Energy Services
PAR TEE GOLF
GIFTS-IN-KIND
Anheuser-Busch Sales & Distributing
Arne Svendsen Trucking Co.
Blade Chevrolet & RVs
Chuckanut Manor Seafood & Grill
COA Mexican Eatery Mount Vernon
Columbia Tower Club
Costco Wholesale
Envy Salon & Spa
Duane & Lynnette Henson
Il Granaio Authentic Italian Restaurant
Indulge Bakery
La Conner Seafood & Prime Rib House
Max Dale’s Steak & Chop House
Munros’ Driving Instruction, Inc.
PowerTech
Scholten’s Equipment Inc.
Skagit Arms
Skagit Golf & Country Club
Swinomish Casino & Lodge
The Office Tavern
Thomas Cuisine
Wells Nursery
Whidbey Coffee
SKAGIT REGIONAL CLINICS FUND
Tammy & John Hill
SURGICAL SERVICES/ ENDO
Richard & Bonnie Cavell
Stacy Gonzales
Lisa Grentz
Mary Ann Hink
Bruce Moberg & Denise Decker
Matthew Ornelas
Joan Pfeiffer
In Memory of Dr. Don Bodley
Huntly & Sandee Gordon
Skagit Regional Health is committed to providing high-quality, comprehensive healthcare in our communities while serving patients with compassion and respect. Our multi-disciplinary team of primary care providers, specialists and surgeons acome together for you, the patient, to provide you with the best care possible.
To continue that mission, we are proud to welcome the following providers to our team:
Rhett Bushman, DO | Family Medicine
Skagit Regional Health - Station Square
Elizabeth Hirshberg, PA-C | Women's Health
Skagit Regional Clinics - Mount Vernon
Lance Ho, MD | Orthopedics & Sports Medicine
Skagit Regional Health - Mount Vernon Surgery Center
Grace Kamano, ARNP | Cardiology
Skagit Regional Clinics - Mount Vernon
Rex Liu, MD | Cardiology
Skagit Regional Clinics - Mount Vernon
Catherine Lynch, MD | Family Medicine
Skagit Regional Clinics - Mount Vernon
Silvia Mancebo, MD | Dermatology
Skagit Regional Clinics - Riverbend
Ayah Oglat, MD | Gastroenterology
Skagit Regional Health - Mount Vernon Surgery Center
Courtney Robbins, ARNP | Family Medicine
Skagit Regional Clinics - Mount Vernon
Sara Rowland, MD | OB Hospitalist
Skagit Valley Hospital
Jennifer Scanlon, MD | OB Hospitalist
Skagit Valley Hospital
Catherine Schnabel, PA-C | Gastroenterology
Skagit Regional Health - Mount Vernon Surgery Center
Mackenzie Sproule, ARNP | Urgent Care
Fedor Torchilo, ARNP, DNP | Cardiology
Skagit Regional Clinics - Mount Vernon
Raymond Weinrich, PA-C | Cardiology
Skagit Regional Clinics - Mount Vernon
Search for a provider that meets your family’s needs. Our providers are committed to providing patients with compassion and respect, one person at a time.
Direct Access Colonoscopy
Healthy adults 45 and older who have not had any colon-related symptoms or any other major health problems are eligible to receive a screening colonoscopy without a doctor’s referral through Skagit Regional Health’s Direct Access program. Call 360-814-5739 to schedule.
Mammography plays an integral part in the early detection of breast cancer because it can show changes in the breast up to two years before you or your healthcare provider can feel a noticeable lump. Call 360-814-8208 to schedule a mammogram in Mount Vernon or Arlington.
Talk with your healthcare provider about the other screenings available at Skagit Regional Health:
• Prostate Cancer Screening
• Lung Cancer Screening
• Cervical Cancer Screening
To learn more, go to SkagitRegionalHealth.org and search ‘screenings.’
988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
If you or someone you are worried about is experiencing thoughts of suicide, a mental health crisis, a substance use crisis or any other kind of emotional distress, please call or text 988 to be connected with a trained crisis counselor. It is confidential, free and available 24/7/365. Services are available in Spanish, along with interpretation services in over 250 languages. Deaf/hard of hearing/TTY: Use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 988.
Skagit Regional Health has two Family Birth Center locations, one in Mount Vernon at Skagit Valley Hospital and one in Arlington at Cascade Valley Hospital. Scan the QR code or visit SkagitRegionalHealth.org/FBCStay for video tours.
Education online e-class
Skagit Regional Health offers an evidence-based, video-rich and engaging childbirth e-class. You will have access to videos, animations, optional read-along audio, quizzes, interactive exercises and essential pregnancy, birth and newparent tools, including a PDF library, glossary and web links. Scan the QR code to visit the Classes and Events page at SkagitRegionalHealth.org or call 360-814-2283.
Skagit Regional Health offers consultations with our lactation specialists during and after your hospital stay. For more information, call: Mount Vernon: 360-814-2283 Arlington: 360-618-7754
Give blood
Bloodworks Northwest offers blood drives in our region to serve our communities' blood supplies. The mobile bus will be outside Skagit Valley Hospital's main entrance and Cascade Valley Hospital on numerous dates this year. An appointment is required. Call 1-800-398-7888 or visit BloodworksNW.org to schedule.
The person next to a bleeding victim may be the one who’s most likely to save them from bleeding to death. In a STOP THE BLEED® class, you’ll gain the ability to recognize life-threatening bleeding and act quickly and effectively to control bleeding once you learn three quick techniques. Take the STOP THE BLEED® training course, provided by Skagit Regional Health instructors, and become empowered to make a life-or-death difference when a bleeding emergency happens. This event is free and open to anyone in the community. To sign up for this in-person class, please call 360-3869918 or visit StillyValleyHealth.org to register.
Have unused medications? Dispose of them properly Search MedTakeBackWashington.org to find local, secure drop-off kiosks for your unused medications or to order mail-back supplies.
Skagit Regional Health has a joint partnership with Stilly Valley Health Connections, Public Hospital District #3 in Snohomish County. They offer cooking classes, support groups and resources on a wide variety of health topics. Visit StillyValleyHealth.org to browse their listings.
Skagit Regional Health offers a Financial Assistance Program to assist qualified patients with outstanding balances. Visit SkagitRegionalHealth.org/FinancialAssistance to view our sliding payment schedule to see if you qualify.
Visit SkagitRegionalHealth.org and click on classes and events to find more resources to be well, or email healthquest@skagitregionalhealth.org
