True North Summer 2020

True North

Summer 2020 • Volume 10 • Issue 2

thank you!

NCMC Foundation Supports Healthcare Providers and Patients. . . . . . 5

Join us for the 3rd Annual

August 28, 2020 • 9:00 a.m.

Longmeadow Game Resort, Clays Club, & Events Center

Wiggins, CO Presented by

Proceeds benefit The Heart Safe City Program. It’s a day filled with sporting clays, food, and prizes... all for a great cause.

Register a Team or Purchase a Sponsorship Package online at www.NCMCFoundation.org call 970-373-3426 or email Kyle.Holman@WeldTrust.org

In This Issue Letter from Foundation Leadership

Recap of rescheduled events and response to pandemic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

NCMC Foundation Supports Healthcare Providers and Patients During COVID-19 Photos and recap of generous actions made in past few months . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Donation for Personal Protective Equipment Made in Honor of COVID-19 Patient

Family remembers Greeley resident, their experience at NCMC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Why Not Now?

Frank Stepp discusses importance of estate plans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

NCMC Foundation Grants and Scholarships

Tree of Hope at Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center

NCMC Foundation purchases sculpture in honor of cancer patients . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

In Their Own Words: A Q&A with Jeff Carlson

Frequently asked questions answered by The Weld Trust and NCMC Foundation Executive Officer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

NCMC Foundation Awards $85,000 in Scholarships

2020 scholarship recipients announced . . . . . . 18

Western States Burn Center Wheeler Award

Randy Jones announced as 2019 award recipient . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Over $175,000 awarded through second quarter of 2020 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

2020 NCMC Foundation/The Weld Trust Board of Directors Mike Bond, Timothy Brynteson, Jeff Carlson – Executive Officer, John Dollarhide, Travis Gillmore, Thomas Grant – Board President, Brandon Houtchens, Mark Lawley, Robert Murphy, Michael Simone, Rose Stoller, Vicki Wilson, Jason Yeater

North Colorado Medical Center Foundation 815 8th Avenue | Greeley, CO 80631 Ph: 970-356-9020 ncmc.foundation@weldtrust.org Visit our website: www.ncmcfoundation.org

The North Colorado Medical Center Foundation promotes philanthropy to enhance and ensure the health and well-being of the people in our region.

Letter from Foundation Leadership Friend of the NCMC Foundation, Welcome to the latest issue of True North magazine! To say it has been an eventful time since our last issue would be a dramatic understatement. We are all aware of what the healthcare industry has dealt with the past few months. It has been amazing to watch our frontline healthcare workers around the world, country, and of course here in Weld County, handle the COVID-19 pandemic. In this issue, we pay tribute to those folks who give tirelessly to help our community in these trying times.

We also want to thank you. During this time, we have seen an outpouring of support for healthcare workers and those most vulnerable in our community. The generosity displayed has been astounding.

From the bottom of our hearts, THANK YOU! A few things I’d like to draw your attention to in this issue are the rescheduled special event dates for our NCMC Foundation Golf Tournament and Double Barrel Blast Sporting Clays Tournament. These events were postponed due to the pandemic, but we’re happy to have them back on the calendar and in full swing. We would love to see you at these events to support the Heart Safe City program.

Also, the Western States Burn Center Golf Classic is set for September 17. This is always a marquee golf tournament in Northern Colorado. Don’t miss out on sponsorship or registration for this great event. Planning for the NCMC Foundation Gala and Turkey Trot is currently underway, with more details to come on these events in the upcoming months.

Finally, please read the “In Their Own Words” feature in this issue for some frequently asked questions about The Weld Trust and the NCMC Foundation. We aim to shed some light on the transition of NCMC, Inc. to The Weld Trust and the relationship with the NCMC Foundation. We hope it’s informative.

Thank you for your ongoing support,

Jeff Carlson NCMC Foundation Executive Officer

Staff Directory

Jeff Carlson

Michelle Booren

Amy Gomez

Kyle Holman

Randie Lieser

Allison Miller

Diana Wood

Executive Officer jeff.carlson@weldtrust.org

Administrative Assistant michelle.booren@weldtrust.org

Development Coordinator amy.gomez@weldtrust.org

Director of Health Grants and Fundraising kyle.holman@weldtrust.org

Business Analyst randie.lieser@weldtrust.org

Development Program Director allison.miller@weldtrust.org

Development Program Director diana.wood@weldtrust.org

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NCMC Foundation Supports Healthcare Providers and Patients During COVID-19 Pandemic As our community, nation, and world have come together, we have witnessed the heroic efforts of many to help those in need during an incredibly challenging time. The team at North Colorado Medical Center (NCMC) has been working around the clock to provide excellent care to patients diagnosed with COVID-19, as well as nonCOVID-19 patients.

The NCMC Foundation has received many generous donations in support of the Healthcare Provider Support Fund to assist healthcare providers while caring for patients with serious medical conditions. The NCMC Foundation works closely with providers to connect them with appropriate resources, including catering in food during long and strenuous shifts, purchasing extra supplies, and other needs to support those who deliver healthcare in our community.

Recent contributions have also supported the Good Neighbor Fund to assist individuals experiencing extreme hardship while undergoing treatment for serious medical conditions. NCMC social workers and care coordinators work closely with patients and their families to connect them to resources, including grant assistance

Carrie Brunson, Regional Director of Professional Practice NoCo and Banner Health Advanced Practice Providers, at the Nurses Day celebration.

Severine Pursley and Sherri Charters taking time to support one another.

through the NCMC Foundation for needs such as mortgage or rent payments, utility bills, counseling services, transportation, clothing, and food.

“Our community’s thoughtfulness and compassion have helped provide needed resources to aid the NCMC healthcare team in the care they provide each day, support crucial needs within the hospital, and provide assistance to patients experiencing extreme hardship,” said Kyle Holman of the NCMC Foundation.

Many activities and celebrations have been held at NCMC in the last few months to honor staff members, including community and first responder parades, Air Force Thunderbirds and Colorado Air National Guard flyovers, Nurses Day celebrations, and Hospital Week festivities.

Included in this issue are several photos highlighting these heartfelt efforts, along with a glimpse of the dedicated staff members providing care to those in need.

Rhonda Turner, Kelsey Anderson, and Rhonda Nino

Devon Garcia gives a thumbs up.

Photos courtesy of Rhonda Turner unless otherwise noted.

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Pam Howes, Wendy Quick, and Kendra Quick

Banner NoCo Administration Team, Hoyt Skabelund, NoCo CEO; Wendy Sparks, NoCo COO; Matt Huff, NoCo CFO; Dr. Angela Mills, NoCo CMO; Elaine Storrs, NoCo CNO; and Margo Karsten, Western Region President, ready to cheer on and recognize staff members in the skybridge at NCMC.

First Responders Parade held at NCMC. Photo by Alex McIntyre, courtesy of Greeley Tribune.

Staff members take a break to strike a pose.

thank you!

On behalf of the patients, healthcare providers, and support staff who have been touched by the generosity of our community, thank you.

We appreciate your partnership and for being among those who help save and change lives through philanthropy.

Colorado Air National Guard F-16’s salute essential workers with a flyover.

Interventional Radiology staff members, Lori Linderman, Cara Sara, Dr. Richard Coursey, and Kerry McQuade, prepare for a COVID-19 procedure.

Photo courtesy of Cara Sara.

Wendy Sparks, COO Banner NoCo, displays her Banner mask.

Team members celebrate Hospital Week and Nurses Day festivities, greeting employees in the skybridge at NCMC to thank them for their service.

Painted rocks with sincere sentiments.

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Hearts with inspiring messages line the windows of the employee skybridge at NCMC.

Inspiring chalk art outside of the employee entrance at NCMC.

Nicol Bailey, Julia Gentry, Melanie Ladwig, Sarah Schneider, Kari Walton, Rachael Wilson, Janessa Gallo, and Rhonda Turner Hospital Week and Nurses Day celebrations to honor healthcare heroes in the employee skybridge at NCMC.

Drs. Maurice Lyons and Gene Tullis accepting a donation of personal protective equipment at NCMC.

Nurses from Banner Arizona arrive at the airport in March. The nurses stayed for two weeks to help provide care at NCMC. Photo by Trevor Reid, courtesy of Greeley Tribune.

Rodney Sellman, Inventory Associate, and Hoyt Skabelund, CEO Banner NoCo, give a friendly greeting.

Rhonda Turner and Sarah Schneider

“Thank You Healthcare Heroes� banner displayed on the NCMC employee parking garage.

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A Nurse’s Prayer to inspire NCMC staff.

Amanda Jayne Von Holtum sings during the Hospital Week celebrations.

Dr. Maurice Lyons donating plasma for treatment of COVID-19.

Photo courtesy of Dr. Maurice Lyons.

Team members at NCMC viewing the community parade held to honor their service.

Back row: Eric Strawn, Megan Ver Hoven, Rhonda Turner Front row: John Best, Natasha Kaufman, Sarah Hansen

Heidi Jones and Kristin Stephens give an elbow greeting during their shift screening employees at NCMC.

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Sarah Hansen prepares to enter a COVID-19 patient room.

Mark and Brittany Gomes and their children, Tate and Gia. Mark was treated for COVID-19 at NCMC in the intensive care unit, and was intubated for almost two weeks. He was released and continued his recovery at home with his family.

Photo courtesy of Brittany Gomes.

Generous Donation for Personal Protective Equipment Made in Honor of COVID-19 Patient When people remember Sisto Ferri, they’ll look back on his love of cars and drag racing. A passion that fueled him throughout his life that he shared with his brother Frank since high school, his eyes lit up with every new car-related project. He taught anyone who wanted to learn how to paint, fix, or drive racecars. His heart was replenished with every racing season. He was even the supervisor in the auto claims division at an insurance company to fill the void as he got older.

man they loved, and they will never forget the acts of kindness from the North Colorado Medical Center (NCMC) staff in their loved one’s unexpected final days.

When NCMC staff knew Sisto wasn’t going to make it, they called Cynthia and asked her to drive to the hospital. When Cynthia arrived, nurses sacrificed their own personal protective equipment (PPE) to her — including a gown, mask, and gloves — so she Cynthia and Sisto Ferri could sit with her husband and hold his hand in his “Some people like hiking, last few hours. They didn’t biking, or camping,” his daughter Tammy said. “His want him to be alone when he passed. home was definitely the racetrack.”

“The nurses didn’t have to do that. That was The other half of Sisto’s heart was reserved for his selfless on their part,” Cynthia said. “After we lost family. A loving husband, father, and grandfather, him, we thought about the nationwide shortage you couldn’t imagine a larger smile than the of PPE and how one he sported when he was with his girls: his kind, caring, and wife and best friend of 31 years, Cynthia, and helpful these three daughters, Tammy, Valene, and Sistine. frontline workers A “goofball” who could hang in any random were to me and my game of Cards Against Humanity, he adored his family. When you grandchildren, Lakelo, Aspen, and Alaya, and see all of what it ensured his sons-in-law, Michael, who shared his takes firsthand to passion for anything with wheels, and James, care for someone always felt like part of the family. you love, you feel compelled to help In December, Sisto wanted to have the entire and give back in family over to celebrate the holiday together for the Sisto Ferri in one of his beloved racecars. any way you can.” first time in years. His wish came true for what unfortunately would be his last Christmas.

In Sisto’s memory, his family decided Sisto passed away in early April from complications to make a generous donation for PPE to the North caused by COVID-19. Immunocompromised, the Colorado Medical Center Foundation. The donation virus took him away from his loved ones in only has been a form of healing for the Ferri family, one week. His family will always remember the 9

Generous Donation for Personal Protective Equipment Made in Honor of COVID-19 Patient continued Associates

Sisto Ferri (third from the left) and family during Christmas 2019.

and they hope it serves as a “thank you” to the healthcare workers who cared for Sisto.

Their donation, along with other donations to the NCMC Foundation, provided NCMC staff with access to PPE during the COVID-19 pandemic, helping keep them safe, healthy, and ready to care for other community members who fell ill with the virus.

“It’s heartbreaking to know so many other families are going through this too,” Sistine said. “The staff is trying their hardest to do what they can to help, so we thought we would do what we could do to help.”

His family shared that Sisto’s passion for cars started when he was younger. As a kid, maybe 8 or 9 years old, he proudly and confidently spraypainted his uncle’s truck. Though at the time his uncle wasn’t too happy about his new paint job, it was the start of a lifelong career path in cars and drag racing for Sisto.

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The story was a favorite for Sisto to retell — Valene gently laughed trying to remember all the times she’s heard it. She said that even in the hospital, he was worried about his latest racetruck project. That was the man everyone knew Sisto to be. Valene hopes her family’s donation will protect others, both patients and healthcare workers, from having their loved ones tell their favorite stories for the last time.

“I’m grateful they did what they could,” she said.

“Now it’s our time to protect them.”

To make a donation to the Healthcare Provider Support Fund for PPE and other important healthcare-related causes, go to ncmcfoundation.org/ways-to-give or call the North Colorado Medical Center Foundation at 970-356-9020 for more information.

EATON COUNTRY CLUB THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2020

WSBC GC Golf Classic benefiting the WESTERN STATES BURN CENTER

FOR MORE INFORMATION

diana.wood@weldtrust.org call 970-673-1154 or visit ncmcfoundation.org

NORTH COLORADO MEDICAL CENTER F O U N D A T I O N

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Why Not Now?

by Frank Stepp, Sr. Vice President, Thompson & Associates We are experiencing an environment most of us have never seen before. Prior to this year, a global pandemic was only a reality in movies. Now, we are acutely aware that all of us are susceptible to a critical change in our health at any time. While we should be cautious, we need not Frank Stepp panic. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and our state governments have given us guidelines to follow so we have the least exposure to the COVID-19 virus.

It seems that uncertain times always cause us to question and realign our priorities. More than ever before, people are considering what would happen to their assets (their estate), should they pass away.

While these thoughts are not pleasant, they are necessary if you want to be sure your assets pass to the people and charities you choose.

Caring.com recently released their annual estate planning survey. One of the troubling facts revealed was in 2017, only 42% of all Americans said they have a will or another type of estate planning document. Fast-forward to 2020, and less than onethird (32%) say they have one or more documents — that’s a decrease of nearly 25% in just three years.

Of those who do have estate planning documents, a will is the most common, at 23.9% of respondents.

About 13% of 2020 respondents said they have a living trust, and just 6.2% have an advanced healthcare directive.

There are many reasons given for not creating an estate plan. The Caring.com survey revealed the top four reasons given for not having a will, shown in the graph below.

Let’s talk about these four reasons.

1. I haven’t gotten around to it.

The passing of your estate, upon your death, will be the largest transfer of wealth for which you have ever been responsible. If you die without a will, the state’s

What is the Main Reason You Don’t Have a Will or Living Trust?

60%

40%

20%

0%

I haven’t gotten around to it

I don’t have enough assets to leave anyone 2017

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2019

It is too expensive to set up 2020

I don’t know how to get a will or living trust

Why Not Now? continued intestacy laws will determine how and to whom your assets are passed, and they may not be passed in the manner you would have wanted. By creating a will, you determine whom your assets will benefit.

Would you continue to drive your car on bald tires and with bad brakes? Probably not. The risk is too great.

But many are willing to gamble on NOT dying today.

So, tell me when your tire will blow out or your brakes will fail, and I will tell you when you should have them repaired.

2. I don’t have enough assets to leave anyone.

According to the Caring.com survey, in 2020, 30.4% of respondents said they do not have a will or living trust because they don’t have enough assets to leave anyone.

More than 10% of individuals who said they don’t have a will due to lack of assets have an income of at least $80,000, which is 22% higher than the national median household income.

Even if your financial assets are small, leaving assets to an heir in a will is about more than finances.

Including someone in your will says, “You are special to me.” It is leaving a part of your legacy to someone in appreciation for your relationship with them.

Emotions run high when mom or dad, brother or sister, aunt or uncle pass away. Many family relationships have been forever destroyed over a simple item, such as a truck, cookie jar, a painting, or an ugly lamp that all of the heirs would like to have but no directions were left. Leaving directions behind that passes these items to heirs is a blessing to all of the heirs.

3. It is too expensive to set up.

Yes, there is a cost to having a qualified attorney draft your will and power of attorneys. But most people find that once they have a will drafted, they may only make a minor change to it for many years. The peace of mind it brings to you and the relief it gives your heirs after your passing is well worth today’s cost.

Please DO NOT try to create your will with an online service. There are many online services that can provide you with a will, but these programs are only as smart as the answers you provide during the will creation process. I have seen many wills that do not result in what the creator intended, due to faulty understanding while inputting the data.

4. I don’t know how to get a will or a revocable living trust.

A good estate planning attorney can walk you through the steps for creating a will. Prior to meeting with that attorney, you can take advantage of services offered

by Thompson & Associates to help you work through the many decisions that should be considered before having the will(s) drafted.

The Thompson process is a step-by-step process that will educate you on your options. What is a revocable living trust? Who would be a good executor? What are power of attorneys? What services can a bank’s trust department provide? These are just a few of the areas that Frank Stepp will walk you through as you consider what you want your estate plan to accomplish.

North Colorado Medical Center Foundation is pleased to offer our friends and supporters a valuable Values-based Estate Planning service from an expert estate planning advisor.

Frank Stepp, from Thompson & Associates, visits Greeley monthly to meet with and assist families or individuals as they navigate through various practical, emotional, and planning related issues. If you are interested in learning more about this complimentary service, or scheduling an appointment with Frank, please contact Kyle Holman at kyle.holman@weldtrust.org or 970-373-3426.

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NCMC Foundation Awards Over $175,000 in Grants and Scholarships The North Colorado Medical Center Foundation funds lifesaving and life-changing programs both at North Colorado Medical Center and in the community.

The following grants have been distributed through the second quarter of this year:

$55,550

$52,249

for scholarships awarded to individuals pursuing a career in healthcare. in patient support programs for qualified individuals. Support includes specialized burn garments for burn outpatients, assistance with living expenses for patients undergoing cancer treatment and/or other serious medical conditions, basic clothing to patients through the Hospitality Closet when clothing has been destroyed or damaged due to injury or during initial treatment by emergency personnel, mammograms and diagnostic services, Lifeline emergency alert systems, and fitness programs for cardiac and pulmonary patients.

$21,405

for remodeling, furniture, and guest supplies at the Hospitality House.

$14,727

to support the CardioVascular Institute of North Colorado, Western States Burn Center, Monfort Family Birth Center Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Banner Hospice of Northern Colorado, palliative care, oncology unit, and continuing education for NCMC staff.

$10,278

to place and maintain automated external defibrillators (AEDs) throughout Weld County as part of the Heart Safe City program.

$7,000

for the Tree of Hope at the Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center at NCMC.

$5,500

for the speaker at the annual regional cancer conference through the Walter Bain Endowed Lecture Fund.

$3,122

to provide accommodations to families of patients due to restrictions on the Hospitality House due to COVID-19.

$2,849

from the Healthcare Providers Support Fund to cater meals and purchase personal protective equipment (PPE) for frontline workers at NCMC during COVID-19.

$1,976

to purchase a treadmill for the NCMC employee gym.

$300 $175

to assist burn patients and their families who are experiencing hardship through the Marty L. Wakefield Knights of Swallows Founder’s Fund. for patient education materials as part of the ICD (implantable cardioverter-defibrillator) support group.

Total $175,131

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Tree of Hope at the Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center at NCMC North Colorado Medical Center (NCMC) staff, patients, and community members attended the unveiling of the Tree of Hope sculpture in March at the Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center at North Colorado Medical Center. Artist Joe Norman created the piece that was purchased by the North Colorado Medical Center Foundation.

“We were thrilled to bring this project to fruition this year.

The Tree of Hope is symbolic to represent the completion of cancer treatment and movement into the survivorship phase, or in honor of a loved one who has faced a cancer diagnosis,” said Julianne Fritz, Regional Director, Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center.

Attendees had the opportunity to tie a ribbon on the tree as a symbol of hope.

“Each colored ribbon represents a specific cancer type, and the ribbons are a part of the living art piece that we hope serves to inspire others who see them,” she said.

The Tree of Hope with many ribbons at the Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center at NCMC.

“The theme of the sculpture reflects the concept of the aspen grove. Aspen groves are tied together by a strong root system. One tree is not alone, but part of a larger community of support. Similarly, there is a strong root system needed for every cancer patient through the multi-disciplinary oncology healthcare team, the community, and family support,” Fritz explained. “We were blessed to have the Foundation support to help make this Tree of Hope possible.”

NCMC staff, community members, and artist, Joe Norman (far right) gather around the Tree of Hope at the unveiling in March.

Patti Farmer, Banner Division Human Resources Business Partner, ties the first ribbon on the Tree of Hope at the unveiling.

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In Their Own Words: A Q&A with Jeff Carlson Our Frequently Asked Questions, Answered

By The Weld Trust and NCMC Foundation Executive Officer

have a critical impact on the most vulnerable of Weld County’s residents. The sale proceeds are anticipated to be sufficient to provide funding to government and nonprofit agencies who will, in turn, be enabled to provide enhanced services all across Weld County for many, many years to come.

The North Colorado Medical Center (NCMC) Foundation staff is frequently asked questions by our donors and other interested parties regarding The Weld Trust Q: What does the and the NCMC Foundation. In order to best provide necessary establishment of The and accurate information, we Weld Trust mean for Weld Jeff Carlson felt it was beneficial to discuss County? these questions with Jeff Carlson, A: Great things! The mission of Executive Officer of The Weld Trust and NCMC promoting excellence in health and education for Foundation, who further elaborates on the transition Weld County is something the NCMC, Inc. Board of of NCMC, Inc. to The Weld Trust and how the Directors has had their sights set on for a long time. relationship with the NCMC Foundation is impacted As one of the largest foundations in the state, The by this shift in organizational structure.

Weld Trust can have a major impact on Weld County

Q: What is The Weld Trust?

A: The Weld Trust is a nonprofit organization that was formerly known as NCMC, Inc., which owned some of the real estate and equipment of North Colorado Medical Center and various clinics in Weld County. In October of 2019, NCMC, Inc. sold its interest in the real estate and equipment of North Colorado Medical Center and the clinics to Banner Health.

From the sale of those assets, the NCMC, Inc. became The Weld Trust, with the mission of promoting excellence in health and education in Weld County.

Q: Why did NCMC, Inc. sell North Colorado Medical Center?

A: The Board of Directors of NCMC, Inc. saw the potential to transform into a Foundation that could

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because the funds are of direct benefit to Weld County and its citizens.

Annually, millions of dollars will potentially be granted to nonprofit or governmental organizations in Weld County to affect positive programs surrounding health and education.

Q: How do The Weld Trust and the NCMC Foundation work together?

A: The Weld Trust has made a commitment to support the NCMC Foundation. It will do so through operational and fundraising support. The NCMC Foundation still manages funds for the benefit of North Colorado Medical Center as well as numerous community initiatives. Continued fundraising is still imperative and a priority for the NCMC Foundation.

In Their Own Words: A Q&A with Jeff Carlson continued Q: How will The Weld Trust help with education and health in Weld County?

A: The Weld Trust Board of Directors will participate in a strategic planning process and will review community needs assessments to determine the goals for the organization and ways we can have the greatest impact for Weld County.

The Weld Trust will accomplish this via grants to organizations with programs or projects aimed at positively impacting health and/or education.

The Weld Trust will also take great care to ensure the ongoing communication with organizations delivering health and education services to the citizens of Weld County. We need to hear from those frontline organizations about what is needed, what gaps may be occurring in services, and how grants being funded are affecting positive change.

Q: What has changed with the NCMC Foundation?

A: The mission of the NCMC Foundation hasn’t changed, which is to promote philanthropy to enhance and ensure the health and well-being of the people in our region. What also has not, and will not change, is how money given by donors will be used. Donor intent is still at the center of what the NCMC Foundation is all about. Meaning, if you give a gift to be used for a specific purpose, that’s exactly what it will be used for.

With the newly established organizational relationship, the main changes that occurred were a new Board of Directors that oversee both the NCMC Foundation and The Weld Trust, as well as shared staff. Also, both organizations are now located in downtown Greeley inside the Kress Building instead of at NCMC.

As both organizations grow together and decisions are made about how to best serve Weld County, we will make the appropriate modifications to the organizations.

Q: Will there be changes to the special events hosted by the NCMC Foundation?

A: We know the NCMC Foundation’s special events have a great reputation in our community. All special events will proceed.

The golf tournaments, Double Barrel Blast, Turkey Trot, and annual Gala will still be produced to raise much-needed funds for causes identified by the NCMC Foundation. I say that with one caveat — we, of course, will follow guidelines associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. People can always visit www. ncmcfoundation.org for more information on special events.

Q: How can the community support The Weld Trust?

A: The best way to support The Weld Trust and the NCMC Foundation is to be a donor or participate in one of the NCMC Foundation’s fundraising special events. We need to maintain a level of fundraising to ensure both organizations thrive and can have a lasting impact on Weld County in perpetuity.

Through a tax-deductible donation to the NCMC Foundation, you can either give an unrestricted gift or restrict your gift to the area you feel most passionate about supporting. We have a long list of hospital and community programs we support through the NCMC Foundation — we hope you find one that resonates with you.

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NCMC Foundation Awards $85,000 in Scholarships The North Colorado Medical Center Foundation recently announced the recipients of its 2020 Scholarships.

Derrick Haines

Lori Tortorella

Liza Nelson

Ashlynn Rose Register

Kristina Richardson

Elizabeth Maxey

Nicholas Umholtz

The Mildred S. Hansen Nursing Program Scholarship is awarded annually to a nontraditional student (age 25 or older) who is pursuing either a Bachelor of Science or Master of Science in Nursing Degree, Nurse Practitioner Degree, or other related advanced nursing degrees at the University of Northern Colorado. This two-year scholarship covers the cost of in-state tuition, books, fees, and a stipend for living expenses. The 2020 recipients are Derrick Haines of Windsor, Elizabeth Maxey of Greeley, Lori Tortorella of Loveland, and Nicholas Umholtz of Platteville, all attending the University of Northern Colorado.

The Nurse Education Tuition Assistance Scholarship is awarded annually to a student who is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree at an accredited nursing program operating in Colorado. This scholarship provides $1,500 per semester for up to five semesters. Recipients of this scholarship are encouraged to work for the North 18

Kelsey Branom

Colorado Medical Center (NCMC) upon completion of their degree. The 2020 recipients are Kelsey Branom of Greeley, Liza Nelson of Eaton, and Ashlynn Rose Register of Greeley, all attending the University of Northern Colorado, and Kristina Richardson of Greeley, attending Morgan Community College.

The Belle Marquand Loustalet Memorial Nursing Scholarship was established by her late son, Mike, and his wife, Marilynn, in memory of his mother.

The scholarship is awarded annually to Ashley Kate Winholtz an individual who has been accepted into an accredited Colorado nursing program with plans to complete an Associate Degree in Nursing, Bachelor of Science or Master of Science in Nursing Degree, Nurse Practitioner Degree, or other related advanced nursing degrees.

This year’s recipient of $2,500 is Ashley Kate Winholtz of Evans, who is attending Aims Community College.

NCMC Foundation Awards $85,000 in Scholarships continued George A. Coleman and Beverly A. Peratino Nursing Scholarship was established in 2014 by retired nurse and hospital Jenna Ranae Kellogg administrator, Beverly A. Peratino, RN, who had a 44-year career in healthcare. Applicant must have been accepted into the Aims Community College Dual Enrollment Nursing Program in conjunction with the University of Northern Colorado and seeking a Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree. Applicant must agree to apply for a registered nurse position at NCMC upon completion of degree. This year’s recipient of $1,000 is Jenna Ranae Kellogg of Greeley.

The USA

Scholarship was established to offer an NCMC employee (or spouse, child, or grandchild) who is a current or former employee at NCMC who has worked at least 90 Mayra Pio Avalos days in an environmental services position, the opportunity to further or complete their education through courses at a community college, technical school, or accredited university. Applicant must have one semester of post high school credit. This year’s recipient of $250 is Mayra Pio Avalos of Greeley, who is attending Aims Community College.

The Florence Winograd Educational Scholarship was established by Florence in honor of the care her late husband received at NCMC. The award serves to recognize and reward a group

The Florence Winograd Educational Scholarship recipients Front row: Veronica Rocha-Gallegos, David Clark, Devin Burseth Middle row: Victoria De Poy, Elena Nelson Squires, Danielle Andazola, Joanie Cobb Back row: Seth Bruggeman, Jeff Lowe Not pictured: Brian Watkins, Jodel Jones, Lauren Shoop, Emily Liepe

of individuals at NCMC who exemplify teamwork.

The 2020 recipient is the Vascular Access Team, nominated by Elena Nelson Squires, RN, OCN, VABC. The team has been credited with the ongoing reduction of Central Line Associated Blood Stream Infection (CLABSI) in patients for many years. In 2019, they targeted staffing to accommodate weekly and then daily rounding on all patients with central lines.

With timely line site care, patient care audits, data that is acted upon immediately, and increased oneto-one clinical staff education, incidence of CLABSI in the adult population decreased by 80%. They consistently review evidence-based practices to add more actions to the goal of eliminating CLABSI.

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NCMC Foundation Awards $85,000 in Scholarships continued They recently added an experienced neonatal intensive care nurse to the team and can now service the tiniest and perhaps most vulnerable patients. Their CLABSI elimination efforts over the last year have resulted in significant risk reduction of morbidity and mortality in many at-risk patients.

Team members include: Elena Nelson Squires, RN, OCN, VA-BC; Joanie Cobb, RN, VA-BC; Jodel Jones, RRT, VA-BC; Seth Bruggeman, RN; Brian Watkins, RN; David Clark, RN; Veronica Rocha-Gallegos, RN; Victoria De Poy, RN; Lauren Shoop, RN; Emily Liepe, RN; Devin Burseth, RRT; Jeff Lowe, RN; and Danielle Andazola, RN. These team members will receive $2,500, with an additional $1,000 from The Weld Trust, for a total of $3,500 to be used towards continuing education and/or approved expenses related to department or patient education.

David E. Bates, MD Memorial Award was established through memorial contributions from numerous donors in his memory. This award is given annually to one individual completing his or her residency at North Caroline Pihl, MD Colorado Family Medicine who reflects a deep commitment to family medicine.

This year’s recipient of $1,000 is Caroline Pihl, MD

who will be working in Lander, Wyoming to practice with the Indian Health Service on the Wind River Indian Reservation after graduation.

Dr. Sam Widney Memorial Award was established through gifts from the Widney Family.

This award is given annually to one or more individuals completing his or her residency at North Colorado Family Daniel Dyer, MD Medicine. This year’s recipient of $500 is Daniel Dyer, MD who will be working in Papua New Guinea, an offshore island near the Southwestern Pacific, with Samaritan’s Purse International Relief after graduation.

As part of its ongoing commitment to health education, the NCMC Foundation annually awards these scholarships to individuals in the community and employees at NCMC. To date, the NCMC Foundation has provided scholarships to nearly 185 students. Some of these students have remained in Greeley and work as part of the staff at NCMC, while others have chosen different paths. Every NCMC Foundation scholarship recipient has a unique story and has worked very hard to achieve educational and career success.

Please contact Diana Wood, Development Program Director, if you would like more information about the NCMC Foundation scholarship program. She can be reached at 970-673-1154 or diana.wood@weldtrust.org.

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SAVE THE DATE

With Style

2021 to benefit Patient Support Funds Easing patient burdens for needs such as living expenses and hardships while receiving treatment for cancer or other serious medical conditions.

NORTHERN COLORADO’S PREMIER FUNDRAISING EVENT

SATURDAY JANUARY 30, 2021 For sponsorship and underwriting opportunities or ticket information, contact Diana Wood at 970-673-1154, diana.wood@weldtrust.org, or visit our website www.ncmcfoundation.org

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Western States Burn Center Wheeler Award Recipient Past Wheeler Award Recipients 2000 – Laura Lockwood, RN 2002 – Jennifer Kingston, RN, CCRN 2003 – TJ Harris, CNA & Greeley Firefighters 2004 – Christopher Noel, BSN 2005 – Rebecca Garber, MSN, FNP 2006 – Dawn Bryson, RN 2007 – Angie Erdmann, RN 2008 – Connie Martin, CNA 2009 – Xavier Lucio, OT 2010 – Frank Nemeth 2011 – Debby Hernandez, CNA 2012 – Beth Meglin, RN 2013 – Brea Lamar, OT 2014 – Stacie Hubbard, RN, CCRN 2015 – Jessica Fritz, RN 2016 – Linda Akers, LSW 2017 – Sarah Zeller, RN Edwin Garcia, MD with the Western States Burn Center and Randy Jones, Chaplain with the Will Rothman Family Chaplaincy program, recipient of the 2019 Wheeler Award.

2018 – Melanie Ladwig, RN, MSN, CCRN

Randy Jones, Chaplain with the Will Rothman Family Chaplaincy program at North Colorado Medical Center (NCMC), was recently named the 2019 recipient of the Wheeler Award.

“Randy has been an overwhelming support person for our patients and their families in the burn unit,” said Lyndsay Deeter, MD, Director of the Western States Burn Center at NCMC. “We are so grateful to have him devote so much of his time to help our survivors in their emotional and spiritual recovery.”

“He has also provided great support to our multi-disciplinary team as well. We are lucky to have him!” expressed Deeter.

The Wheeler Award was established by Dr. James R. Wheeler in 1993. Dr. Wheeler is credited with starting the burn unit at NCMC in 1981 with the assistance of Dr. Tad Gilmore and Dr. Richert Quinn.

This prestigious award is given to a burn team member who exemplifies outstanding dedication to providing high-quality patient care and participation within the multi-disciplinary care team. The entire burn team is involved in the nomination and selection of the recipient each year.

Congratulations to the 2019 Wheeler Award winner, Randy Jones!

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AL TUR U K N N

TROT EY

23RD A

THANKSGIVING WEEK • VIRTUAL RACE • NOVEMBER 22-29, 2020

2020

The NCMC Foundation along with the CardioVascular Institute of North Colorado will host the 23rd Annual Turkey Trot Virtual Thanksgiving Race Sunday, November 22 – Sunday, November 29. The race is open to participants of all ages and abilities and includes a 5K (3.1 miles) Turkey Trot and a 2K (1.2 miles) Gobbler Trek Fun Run/Walk. Suggested courses in Greeley will be posted at a later date.

Grab your friends and family and run, walk or trot your way to finishing before you feast on the day of your choosing during Thanksgiving week!

REGISTER ONLINE BY NOVEMBER 20 AND SAVE! ONLINE REGISTRATION Sunday, August 1 – Friday, November 20

(*online registration will close at 6:00 pm on Friday, November 20)

Getmeregistered.com keyword: NCMC Turkey Trot You Pay: $25 per adult, $15 per youth ages 17 & under

WALK-IN REGISTRATION Altitude Running 3620 W. 10th Street, Greeley, CO 80634 Saturday, November 1 - Friday, November 20, 2020 (see www.altituderunning.com for store hours or call 970-356-6964)

For more information go to ncmcfoundation.org/event/ncmc-turkey-trot or call 970-810-6204

You Pay: $25 per adult, $15 per youth ages 17 & under (cash or check) North Colorado Medical Center 1801 16th Street, Greeley, CO 80631 - Entrance #6 Saturday, November 21 – 10:00 am – 3:00 pm Sunday, November 22 – 10:00 am – 3:00 pm Monday, November 23 – 10:00 am – 6:00 pm Tuesday, November 24 – 10:00 am – 6:00 pm Wednesday, November 25 – 10:00 am – 6:00 pm You Pay: $30 per adult, $20 per youth ages 17 & under (cash, check or credit card)

NO RACE DAY REGISTRATION THIS YEAR DUE TO IT BEING A VIRTUAL RACE WHAT IS THE DEFINITION OF A VIRTUAL RACE? You will register for the race, pick up a race shirt, and do the race with your friends and family on your own time, in the location of your choosing during the week of Thanksgiving (November 22 – 29). Post your time results and upload photos of your race fun to our site (optional) and receive a completion certificate! Proceeds from the event will benefit the Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program which provides financial assistance to patients who otherwise would not be able to participate in the rehabilitation program.

5K / 2K FUN RUN • WALK • NORTH COLORADO MEDICAL CENTER • 1801 16th STREET • GREELEY, CO

North Colorado Medical Center Foundation 815 8th Avenue Greeley, CO 80631

Upcoming Events — visit ncmcfoundation.org for more information Double Barrel Blast Sporting Clays Tournament presented by Fortress Development Solutions, Gusher Oilfield Services, and Atlas Energy Services

Longmeadow Game Resort, Clays Club, and Event Center Wiggins, CO Friday, August 28 – 9:00 am Benefiting the Heart Safe City program. For sponsorship opportunities and registration information, contact Kyle Holman at 970-373-3426 or kyle.holman@weldtrust.org.

Western States Burn Center Golf Classic Eaton Country Club – Eaton, CO Thursday, September 17 This golf tournament benefits the Western States Burn Center at North Colorado Medical Center. AM and PM tee times available. For sponsorship opportunities and registration information, contact Diana Wood at 970-673-1154 or diana.wood@weldtrust.org.

NCMC Turkey Trot – Virtual Race Thanksgiving Week, November 22 - 29 This event benefits the Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program at North Colorado Medical Center.

For sponsorship opportunities, contact Allison Miller at 970-539-9481 or allison.miller@weldtrust.org.

Registration is open at getmeregistered.com, keyword: NCMC Turkey Trot.

NCMC Foundation Gala – MadMen Embassy Suites by Hilton Loveland Hotel Conference Center & Spa Saturday, January 30, 2021 – 6:00 pm

With Style

2021

Benefiting NCMC Foundation Patient Support Funds. For sponsorship/ticket information and underwriting opportunities, contact Diana Wood at 970-673-1154 or diana.wood@weldtrust.org.