Called to Serve
Read their stories...
We're proud of every physician, employee, and volunteer who devotes their lives to serving others. Their stories aren't always told or even known. But their stories are a reflection of who we are and why we're here.
Elizabeth Auxier |
For Elizabeth Auxier, helping someone quit smoking is all in day's work. She talks with patients, helps them find resources, and educates you about tobacco's dangers. Since 2003, KDH has received $1.1 million in grant dollars—including funds that support Elizabeth's work. Grant programs have also helped fight drug abuse, helped fight childhood obesity, and taught abstinence-based sexual education in schools. None of these programs would have been possible without KDH's support. |
Tabitha Bachmann, RN |
When a returning teenage patient's family wasn't able to spend much time at the hospital, Delores, Mary, and Tabitha jumped in to help. Delores bought decorations and Mary decorated the room prior to the patient's arrival. Just to make it feel more like home, Tabitha bought a pizza and provided a pizza party for the patient and her best friend. It's amazing how little acts of kindness make a difference |
Heather Foy |
To Heather, healthy lifestyles are crucial, especially for kids. Focused on improving opportunities for kids, Heather organized Fit Kids classes in area schools—teaching the benefits of exercise and healthy food choices. Heather also helped bring Girls on the Run to our community. She founded a local council through King's Daughters' Hospital. Girls on the Run builds self-esteem for young girls and promotes active living. All participants finished the closing 5K event. Committed to making a difference, Heather organized these activities through her own initiative. |
Judy Koehler, MD |
As Medical Staff President, Dr. Judy Koehler understands the high costs of health care. She also understands the importance of providing care for those in need. In 2009, physicians and staff members at KDH provided over $22 million dollars worth of uncompensated care. This number reflects actual costs to the hospital and includes both direct charity care and unreimbursed costs. To Dr. Koehler, providing such care is a reflection of our mission: Called to Serve. |
Sue Livers |
A family crisis can occur at any time. When money is tight, a relatively minor expense can become a major ordeal. Since 2002, the KDH Foundation has provided over $38,000 in aid to local families through its Immediate Response Fund. To Foundation Director Sue Livers, responding to an immediate need is one of her greatest joys. There's just something about hands-on help that inspires her to make a difference. Sue also helped with Girls on the Run by volunteering to be a running buddy for one of the girls who didn't have a partner. With Sue's encouragement, both Sue and her buddy crossed the line to the sound of cheers. |
Connie Milner |
While it's impossible to purchase everything a hospital needs from local businesses, Connie Milner and her purchasing team think local whenever possible. As local residents, Connie and her team appreciate local business. They appreciate when local people choose KDH for health care. In the past two years, KDH has spent over $1.7 million with local businesses. That makes a big difference in our community. We all benefit when local organizations support each other. |
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Mark Seib |
When Mark first met a recent patient, he had suffered a severe stroke and undergone rehabilitation at a hospital and nursing home for several months. It was questionable as to whether the patient would ever walk again. Holding the patient's hand and offering patient persistence, Mark helped hone and strengthen the patient's muscles. He is now walking with assistance. Mark is one reason why our Home Health team has been named to the list of Home Care Elite for four straight years—reflecting the Top 25 percent of agencies in the nation. |
Sheila Surrett |
To Sheila, the problem simply had to be solved. So when she learned that one of her recent patients was on a limited income and might not be able to afford the nebulizer and medications needed after discharge, she burst into action. Even though her schedule was busy, Sheila took extra time and called area respiratory agencies to find the best price for the patient. With her help, the patient was discharged with the medications needed and a plan he could afford. Problem solved. |
Dr. Mark Totten |
To Dr. Mark Totten, the math made perfect sense. Provide local athletes a free sports physical. In response, ask them to volunteer an hour of their time to help someone else—a concept called Pay it Forward. This year, over 600 junior high and high school athletes received free sports physicals from King's Daughters' Hospital. Think about the 600 volunteer hours created. Imagine the great work that has and will be done. All because one person and one team chose to make a difference. |
