 "Extraordinary Nurse" Amy Smith R.N. with her second Daisy Award Gerber Memorial nurse recognized with DAISY award for sharing a lot of heart with patient in pain
FREMONT, Mich., Feb. 22, 2022 – For one patient, Amy Smith, RN, shared a lot of heart, figuratively and literally during the patient’s visit to Spectrum Health Gerber Memorial – and that was the kind of care that led to the patient nominating Smith for the DAISY Award recognizing exceptional nursing care. The patient had visited Gerber Memorial’s emergency department for a serious injury, and experienced excruciating pain. “The first thing she did was assure me she was going to stay with me through my whole time in the ER,” the patient wrote in nominating Smith for the award. “Next, she went out of her way to find me a stress ball shaped like a heart, which might seem like a small gesture, but with how much pain I was in… this small gift made a huge difference for me.” Smith explained the patient’s care and made sure the patient understood the how and the why of each step. The patient wrote that Smith answered questions “graciously and with honesty.” Smith advocated for the patient several times and the patient said her method for improving overall comfort, by using certain equipment and techniques, was so effective that other team members at the emergency department stopped to learn from an impromptu show-and-tell. “Amy is a rock star,” the patient wrote, adding that while the injury was horrible, “my time at the Spectrum ER was top notch, thanks to Amy.” “I’m privileged and blessed that I can care for our patients and the families in our community, and making sure they feel personalized, individual care is something we strive for every day, on every shift, at Spectrum Health Gerber Memorial,” Smith said. “We really work as a team and I am so grateful to serve alongside so many outstanding health professionals on behalf of our patients and their families.” Smith has been a nurse in the emergency department since she started at Gerber Memorial in 2015. As a DAISY Award honoree, Smith received a certificate commending her for being an “Extraordinary Nurse.” The certificate reads: “In deep appreciation of all you do, who you are, and the incredibly meaningful difference you make in the lives of so many people.” DAISY Award honorees also receive a beautiful sculpture called A Healer’s Touch, hand-carved from serpentine stone by artists of the Shona tribe in southern Africa. Nurses may be nominated by patients, families and colleagues, and they are chosen by a committee of nurses at Gerber Memorial to receive the award. Smith also nominated Syrena May-Crisman, Gerber Memorial emergency department nurse technician, for the BEE Award, which recognizes any staff member who supports patient care. Smith nominated May-Crisman, writing: “Syrena consistently goes above and beyond for patients and staff. As a charge nurse, I very frequently ask Syrena to stay late to help meet the needs of the unit, and despite her demanding nursing school schedule, she makes the department’s needs her priority. Syrena always comes to work with a great attitude, and she honestly makes my job smoother as a result of being on shift. I appreciate her professionalism, continuous enthusiasm for learning, and her commitment to being excellent at her job.” This is Smith’s second DAISY Award. In 2019, Smith received the DAISY Award for planning a make-up wedding for a patient who was in the emergency department during her big day. Smith stayed well past the end of her shift in the emergency department to get the details right. Part of a national program, the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses is part of the DAISY Foundation's program to recognize the super-human efforts nurses perform every day. Nomination forms are available at nursing stations throughout the hospital and patients can submit those forms either by placing them in gray boxes near those forms or by handing them to a nurse or other hospital staff. Nominating forms will also be available at the hospital’s main lobby, as well as included in admission packets. For more information about The DAISY Award and the Foundation’s other recognition of nurses, faculty and students, visit www.DAISYfoundation.org. Nomination forms can be found at any Spectrum Health facility or submitted online at: https://www.onlineregistrationcenter.com/GerberDAISY
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 Cases, Positivity, Deaths Continue Downward Trend From our friends at DHD#10: Our jurisdiction’s daily cases per million and percent positivity have both decreased since last update. There was a decrease in cases (-40.9%) when comparing the most recent 7 days (2/13-2/19) to the 7 days previous (2/6-2/12). There was a decrease in deaths (-16.7%) when comparing deaths that occurred in the most recent 7 days to the 7 days previous. As of today, all of our counties remain in the high transmission level categories. There are currently 111 confirmed Omicron variants – 1 in Crawford, 1 in Kalkaska, 5 in Lake, 5 in Manistee, 4 in Mason, 25 in Mecosta, 8 in Missaukee, 20 in Newaygo, 19 in Oceana, and 23 in Wexford. As of today, there are 7 COVID-19 inpatients in Munson Cadillac, 0 in Munson Grayling, 2 in Munson Manistee, 9 at Spectrum Health Big Rapids, 1 at Spectrum Health Gerber Memorial, and 3 at Spectrum Health Ludington. Attached are graphics from the Spectrum System website highlighting vaccination status of hospitalized patients both as of 2/22/22.   Spectrum Health offers 4 free suicide prevention trainings to address mental health, wellbeing
Fremont, Mich., Feb. 18, 2022 – Spectrum Health Gerber Memorial is offering four free suicide prevention trainings open to all community members. Three sessions are in Newaygo County and one is in Muskegon County. Spectrum Health’s certified trainers will lead the free “Question, Persuade, Refer,” training. QPR training is designed to increase the ability to identify people with suicidal thoughts or behaviors and intervene to save a life. The QPR training will teach participants how to recognize the warning signs of suicide, offer hope and get help to save a life.
“Spectrum Health’s ‘Question, Persuade, Refer’ training is designed to empower anyone, anywhere, to have the tools and knowledge that can help spot individuals in trouble and engage them in ways that can potentially save lives,” said Jena Zeerip, Spectrum Health Gerber Memorial community education manager. “We encourage everyone in the community to sign up for this free training, especially as mental health and wellbeing continue to be concern in our communities, schools and workplaces. Spectrum Health’s ‘Question, Persuade, Refer’ training can make a real difference by engaging with compassion, raising awareness and offering hope.” To register: 231.924.3073 or communityhealth@spectrumhealth.org Newaygo County Mental Health completes Poetry contest “Poetry is not an expression of the party line. It's that time of night, lying in bed, thinking what you really think, making the private world public, that's what the poet does.” Allen Ginsburg As part of ongoing efforts to reduce stigma and increase awareness of mental health, Newaygo County Mental Health recently sponsored a poetry contest for current and past clients. The contest was broken into two categories- Mental Health and Suicide Awareness, with students and adults judged separately. There were 18 submitted entries, from people of all ages. They were reviewed based upon message, form, technique, originality and use of convention. “The poems were amazing- thoughtful and inspiring”, according to one of the judges. “I cried a little on my first reading of them – they showed people with resilience and determination in their lives”. We appreciate the efforts of all of the writers, and appreciate their work in reducing the stigma surrounding seeking mental health services for those in need. Newaygo County Mental Health is available to this community 24/7 at 231-689-7330. Please call if you, or someone you know needs assistance with mental health or substance use disorder services.  Battle Scars (2)We all have battle scars, Mental and physical, From wars we all have fought: Bullets shot from bullies, Non-acceptance from our peers, Words bombarding our thoughts, Slashes from people who don’t understand. We all bare some type of battle scars We all crawl through the wars of depression, even suicidal thoughts. If you have no one to talk to just look up to the sky Talk to the moon. It may not seem as if the moon is listening but, even the quietest whisper can be heard. The stars illuminating the dark. Scars and stars are the only reasons We know that darkness can end. Battle scars. The only way I know I survived. Changing It
Storm It’s hard to admit that you are not all right. It’s like saying you are struggling to stay alive. Even though it’s true you don’t want to make others cry. They will see me and say “Why do you want to die? Am I not good enough to keep you alive?” You want to tell them that you struggle to even be outside. There’s a storm accumulating in front of our eyes, and only I seem to mind. Even though I want to die. I will still force myself to fight. The fight will throw me to the ground, and no one will bat an eye because they will only see me on the ground, and not the storm that surrounds me. The storm may be a part of mind, but it does not make it any less of a pest. I will fight the storm for my life because behind the clouded skies there will be better times. StuckI’m stuck inside, trapped here alone with no place to hide, feeling as though part of me died. I’m stuck inside this big black hole, trying to find my long lost soul. I’m stuck inside going to war, not even knowing what I’m fighting for. I’m stuck inside among the dark mist, welcome to a place where love does not exist. I’m stuck inside trying to replace these disturbing thoughts in this dangerous place. I’m stuck inside spinning around, staring out the window, not making a sound. I’m stuck inside determined to be free, determined to be stronger, to be a better me   Tamarac recertified as a nationally recognized medical fitness facility
FREMONT, Mich., Feb. 17, 2022 – Tamarac, the Center for Health and Well-being, has achieved its re-certification by the Medical Fitness Association, the country’s leading organization dedicated solely to medically integrated wellness and fitness facilities. Tamarac is one of only three fitness centers in Michigan that is MFA certified. “Tamarac is honored to achieve re-certification as a nationally recognized medical fitness facility and continue serving our community so individuals at all levels of fitness and wellness can meet their health goals, their way,” said Amanda Irwin, Tamarac manager. “Since Tamarac was first certified by the Medical Fitness Association in 2017, we have invested in highly skilled health professionals and cutting-edge programs, from Momentum for personal fitness to our brand new AlterG Treadmill. As one of only three facilities in Michigan with nationally certified medical fitness programs, we invite everyone to visit Tamarac to see what we can do to help them reach their wellness goals for 2022 and beyond.” In addition to a gym, indoor track, swimming pool and hot tub, full-service café, child watch, and other amenities, Tamarac also houses many fitness and wellness programs led by certified health professionals. Tamarac recently launched the AlterG, a NASA technology training and rehabilitation Anti-Gravity Treadmill™ geared for people at all levels of fitness, from athletes to individuals working to lose weight. By helping people move in new ways without pain, the AlterG can help individuals strengthen physical performance, improve overall conditioning and recover after rehabilitation. Tamarac’s Momentum program connects patients and their health care providers to certified fitness specialists and other health care professionals who help build a fitness program customized to the individual. Tamarac’s initial certification was achieved in 2017. This recertification represents a significant commitment, on the part of Tamarac, to offer the highest standards of professional expertise and quality programming. Tamarac helps members develop and maintain a healthy lifestyle that minimizes the risk of illness and disease and promotes overall wellness. The Medical Fitness Association’s Facility Certification is the first and only certification offered specifically to facilities in the medical fitness industry—an industry that serves over four million members worldwide. Based on the Association’s internationally recognized Standards and Guidelines for Medical Fitness Facilities, the certification process involves an in-depth, on-site review of a facility’s adherence to a set of prescribed standards and guidelines. The certification process is an integral part of ensuring that facilities provide a high level of quality and safety in the programs and services they deliver in order for them to become fully integrated into the local continuum of healthcare. The Medical Fitness Association Facility Certification is recognized as a mark of excellence in the health and wellness industry. “As the incidence of chronic disease continues to rise, the need for medical fitness facilities to offer a high standard of programming for the communities they serve is more important than ever,” said David Flench, FACHE, FMFA, President and CEO of the Medical Fitness Association. “Studies have shown that when people maintain an active lifestyle, especially in a safe environment, they reduce the risk of illness down the road. Tamarac has taken an important step in providing this extraordinary level of care.” For information: 231.924.1600 or tamaracwellness.org.  Latest Numbers & Mask Guidance Update From our friends at DHD#10 Our jurisdiction’s daily cases per million and percent positivity have both decreased since last update. There was a decrease in cases (-42.4%) when comparing the most recent 7 days (2/6-2/12) to the 7 days previous (1/30-2/5). There was a decrease in deaths (-50.0%) when comparing deaths that occurred in the most recent 7 days to the 7 days previous. As of today, all of our counties remain in the high transmission level categories. There are currently 70 confirmed Omicron variants – 1 in Kalkaska, 4 in Lake, 3 in Manistee, 2 in Mason, 19 in Mecosta, 4 in Missaukee, 16 in Newaygo, 11 in Oceana, and 10 in Wexford. As of today, there are 6 COVID-19 inpatients in Munson Cadillac, 2 in Munson Grayling, 3 in Munson Manistee, 7 at Spectrum Health Big Rapids, 3 at Spectrum Health Gerber Memorial, and 5 at Spectrum Health Ludington. And this from MDHHS: As COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations continue to decline in the state, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is updating its mask guidance for public settings, including school settings, to reflect that Michigan is entering a post-surge, recovery phase. Moving forward, the COVID-19 cycle can be broken down into three key phases:
During this phase, MDHHS recommends that all individuals, regardless of vaccination status, continue to practice universal masking in high-risk congregate settings including long-term care facilities, homeless shelters, correctional facilities, jails and health care facilities. All individuals, regardless of vaccination status, should also wear a mask during isolation and quarantine periods to stop further community spread of COVID-19. School districts and organizations should consider local conditions and work with their local health department to determine mask policies for school districts, public meetings and large events. Masks are an important tool in mitigating spread of COVID-19 and individuals who may be at higher risk of infection or who feel better protected when masked should choose when they feel comfortable masking.   Cases, positivity, deaths all down this week This Weeks Report From Jordan Powell, MPH, Epidemiologist , District Health Department #10 Our jurisdiction’s daily cases per million and percent positivity have both decreased since last update. There was a decrease in cases (-49.0%) when comparing the most recent 7 days (2/1-2/8) to the 7 days previous (1/26-1/31). There was a decrease in deaths (-50.0%) when comparing deaths that occurred in the most recent 7 days to the 7 days previous. As of today, all of our counties remain in the high transmission level categories. There are currently 42 confirmed Omicron variants – 1 in Kalkaska, 2 in Lake, 2 in Manistee, 1 in Mason, 9 in Mecosta, 4 in Missaukee, 8 in Newaygo, 5 in Oceana, and 10 in Wexford. As of today, there are 8 COVID-19 inpatients in Munson Cadillac, 4 in Munson Grayling, 8 in Munson Manistee, 9 at Spectrum Health Big Rapids, 5 at Spectrum Health Gerber Memorial, and 6 at Spectrum Health Ludington. Attached are graphics from the Munson and Spectrum System websites highlighting vaccination status of hospitalized patients both as of 2/8/22.   L to R Sandy Earl, Dani Merrill, Shari Paulsen. The four legged charmer is Drew (who, by the way, is available for adoption) Each year the Fremont Area Chamber of Commerce holds a Christmas Silent Auction event during the Fremont Christmas Stroll. The committee chooses a local nonprofit to donate the proceeds to. This year, the profits went to Bellwether Harbors’ Clyde's Collars fund. Clyde’s Collars was created in honor of Bellwether Harbor alumni Clyde, who went missing from his home shortly after adoption. He has not been found. This program provides Fi GPS collars to dogs, like Clyde, who are fearful, skittish, or a flight risk. Families looking to adopt dogs in the program are gifted the collar and a year subscription to Fi’s GPS tracking service upon adoption. While Bellwether is launching this program with the focus on high-risk dogs, they hope to expand Clyde’s Collars to include all dogs at the shelter. Being able to provide adopters with a Fi collar and one year subscription to their GPS tracking service will provide an extra safety measure when combined with an ID tag and microchip. Clyde’s story is heartbreaking but not uncommon. This program is designed to help prevent situations like this from happening in the future. Bellwether Harbor Animal Shelter and Training Center is a nonprofit 501c3 organization; dedicated to the health and well-being of the abandoned, abused, and neglected dogs and cats coming into their shelter. Their facility is located at 7645 W. 48th Street, Fremont. If you want to know more about the fund, you can go to Bellwether's website, https://www.bellwetherharbor.org/clydes-collars/ Thank you to this years’ donors of the Christmas Auction: Linden Floral, Complete Restoration, Flowers by Ray & Sharon, Fremont Christian Church, Liberty Jewelers, Hidden Treasures of Fremont, The Original Print Shop, United Way of the Lakeshore/Jim Rynberg, Mayor of City of Fremont, Clyde Brummel, Fremont Area Chamber of Commerce, Hi-Lites Graphics INC, Norma Talbott, Empowerment Network, and Great Lakes Signature Properties. A special thank you to the sponsors of the Fremont Area Chamber of Commerce 2021 Christmas Auction: Horizon Bank - Fremont, Gerber Life Insurance Company, Harbor Hospice, West Michigan Family Dental, Fremont Regional Digester and Brant Electric. Save the date for the 2022 Fremont Christmas Stroll now, Friday, December 9. Be sure to check out the silent auction items in the Fremont Area Chamber of Commerce office at 7 E. Main Street, downtown Fremont. Your donation will go towards one of our local nonprofits!  District Health Department #10 announces that they have received a limited supply of KN95 masks from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) and have begun the distribution process to local area residents. DHD#10 is now distributing KN95 masks, 3 per person, at all 10 of their offices. Masks will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last. DHD#10 will continue to order additional masks from MDHHS as needed but may run out of stock periodically. “Now that KN95 masks are available to the public in each of DHD#10’s offices, we encourage residents to stop by during regular office hours to pick some up,” said DHD#10 Health Officer Kevin Hughes. “Please know that supplies are limited and are only made available from MDHHS. It is possible we could run out and we ask for your patience and understanding. Wearing a mask indoors, in public places, is a very important step in preventing further spread of COVID-19 and its variants.” This week’s numbers from Jordan Powell, MPH, Epidemiologist, District Health Department #10 As of today, all of our counties remain in the high transmission level categories. There are currently 32 confirmed Omicron variants – 1 in Kalkaska, 1 in Manistee, 9 in Mecosta, 3 in Missaukee, 6 in Newaygo, 3 in Oceana, and 9 in Wexford. No new Delta variants were identified in our jurisdiction since last week. As of today, there are 8 COVID-19 inpatients in Munson Cadillac, 6 in Munson Grayling, 8 in Munson Manistee, 10 at Spectrum Health Big Rapids, 9 at Spectrum Health Gerber Memorial, and 5 at Spectrum Health Ludington. Attached are graphics from the Munson and Spectrum System websites highlighting vaccination status of hospitalized patients both as of 2/1/22.   |
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