Living In Good Health Spring/Summer 2013

in good health
S p r i n g / S u m m e r 2 0 1 3 • a g n e s i a n . c o m

Living In Good Health
President/Chief Executive Officer
Steven Little
Vice President of Marketing &
Public Relations
Carol Hyland
Director of Marketing & Public Relations
Holly Brenner
Living In Good Health is published three
times each year by Agnesian HealthCare,
430 East Division Street, Fond du Lac, WI 54935.
Reproduction in whole or in part without
permission is prohibited.
Mission Statement
We at Agnesian HealthCare provide
compassionate care that brings Hope,
Health and Wholeness to those we serve
by honoring the sacredness and dignity
of all persons at every stage of life.
We are rooted in the healing ministry of
the Catholic church as we continue the
mission of our sponsor, the Congregation
of Sisters of St. Agnes.
Values
At the heart of our healthcare ministries,
we affirm these values:
• Honesty
• Excellence
• Compassion
• Respect
• Stewardship
In Good Health is intended to share important
health information with its readers. The newsletter
facilitates learning by providing information about
Agnesian HealthCare providers and facilities.
It is not intended as a substitute for professional
medical advice.
Vikas Bhatara, MD
Pulmonology
Agnesian HealthCare
(920) 926-8640
Michael Jones, DO
Family Medicine
Fond du Lac Regional Clinic
(920) 324-6800
Jan Drews, APNP
Family Medicine
(920) 324-6800
Richard McMahon, DO
Family Medicine
(920) 324-6800
Steven Sheppard, DO
Obstetrics & Gynecology
Ripon Medical Center
(920) 748-0430
Starts June 10, 2013
Jennifer Schaeve, APNP
Endocrinology
St. Agnes Hospital
(920) 926-4530
NewProviders
Agnesian HealthCare Welcomes the Following New Providers:
02
Amy Burmesch, PA-C
Endocrinology
St. Agnes Hospital
(920) 926-4530
James Findling, MD
Endocrinology
St. Agnes Hospital
(920) 926-4530
Beth Lalande, MD
Endocrinology
St. Agnes Hospital
(920) 926-4530
The Family and Internal Medicine departments provide Saturday appointments from 8 a.m. to noon
at the Fond du Lac Regional Clinic, 420 E. Division Street in Fond du Lac. This convenience is being
offered to established patients.
While walk-ins are accepted, scheduling an appointment in advance is recommended to ensure
availability. Call (920) 926-8722 (Family Medicine) or (920) 926-8420 (Internal Medicine) on a
Saturday for a same-day appointment.
saturday
hours
now available in Family
& Internal Medicine

03Agnesian.com
wishcome true
Cancer Patient Gets
For Dianna Smith, of Wautoma, a visit to see the Grand Ole Opry
in Nashville was something she had hoped for her whole life.
To have her wish granted just as her life was winding down was
unexpected. Dianna, 65, is a hospice patient diagnosed with
terminal cancer a year ago.
Caregivers at Agnesian HealthCare’s Hospice Hope program in
Green Lake have rallied around Dianna as she lives out her life
with quality and dignity. That includes making dreams come true.
Working with the Dream Foundation in California, Dianna’s
hospice care team set in motion the plan to send her to Nashville.
“The Dream Foundation is the first and largest national
wish-granting organization for adults,” says Kristina Andrew,
a hospice social worker with Agnesian HealthCare who helps
terminally-ill patients set goals.
“Dianna told me why getting to the Grand Ole Opry was so
important,” Kristina says, noting Dianna’s family - especially
her father - enjoyed country music.“She grew up with country
music. Dianna said it runs through her veins… It makes her
smile and feel close to her father, who is no longer living.”
Dianna’s all-expense-paid, three-day dream vacation to Nashville
and the Grand Ole Opry included three nights at the Sheraton Hotel,
gas money, tickets to the Grand Ole Opry including a personal
up-close backstage tour, all meals and a gift bag of souvenirs.
Treated to the show of her lifetime at the Grand Ole Opry, Dianna
says she was in awe.“I had tears in my eyes,” she says.“I don’t
think I was walking on my feet - I felt like I was floating. We even
got a backstage tour to see the performers up close.”
A thrill occurred when Roy Clark came up and talked to her. “He
said he loved the dimple on my left cheek and told me he’d give
me $285 for it,” Dianna smiles.“That wasn’t even in the plan!”

04
Waupun Memorial Hospital Earns
nursing excellence honor
While others may have been dreaming about blasting off to space
as an astronaut or singing in front of audiences worldwide, others
dreamt of becoming a nurse.
“My mom always told me that she knew I would be a nurse since
I was five,” says Shirley Westra, a registered nurse at Waupun
Memorial Hospital (WMH).“I started my nursing career at age 12
as a candy striper.”
Diane Fischer knew after being a hospital patient at age six.
“It’s amazing how a childhood experience can influence our future.
After high school, I worked at my mother’s certified nursing home
for the elderly. Her mother worked at the nursing home in Juneau
for years. I feel this influenced my decision to go on to nursing
school too; nursing was in our blood.”
And Marilyn Mulder’s passion began even before starting her
own family.“I started working in obstetrics as a CNA at Waupun
Memorial Hospital in 1973,” Mulder says.“I loved working with
new moms and babies. When my first child was born, I knew that
one day I wanted to return to work in OB.”
The passion of these and many more nurses at WMH is shining
even brighter as the organization celebrates being awarded the
prestigious Pathway to Excellence®
designation by the American
Nurses Credentialing Center. Waupun Memorial Hospital is the
first healthcare provider in the area to receive this honor,
and one of only two in Wisconsin.
The Pathway to Excellence designation identifies the elements
of work environments where nurses can flourish. The designation
substantiates the professional satisfaction of nurses at WMH
and identifies it as one of the best places to work.
Westra and Sandra Brinker served as co-chairpersons, leading a
dedicated committee of their colleagues, including Sarah Bruins,
Barb Burdick, Diane Fischer, Cheri Goddard, Marilyn Mulder, Kim
Scharschmidt, Tracey Schroeder, Terry Stenz, DeAnn Thurmer
and Renee Walker. WMH started its journey in July 2011 exploring
best practices and assessing all efforts around providing quality
patient care.
“This designation demonstrates that nurses at Waupun
Memorial Hospital give excellent care,” says Westra.
“I am so personally proud of all the nurses here for all the
exceptional things they do for their patients and visitors.”
Scharschmidt is honored to have helped WMH receive this honor.
“I think it is really neat that a small hospital like Waupun
Memorial Hospital has received this designation,” she says.

05Agnesian.com
IdentifyingStrengths
Enabling Abilities
New Center Helps Families Dealing
with Autism-Spectrum Disorders
Do you know someone with an autism-spectrum disorder? Odds
are good that you do. According to the Centers for Disease Control
& Prevention, one in 88 children has an autism-spectrum disorder
(ASD), or disorder that interferes with a child’s social, behavioral
and language development. And while the severity of the condition
can vary - the saying,“If you’ve met one person with autism, you’ve
met one person with autism” exists for a reason - the families
of children with ASD all face a similar challenge: finding help.
The recently-launched Agnesian Autism, Behavior & Communication
Center (AABCC) will give area families “access to timely,
multidisciplinary evaluations, including psychological, speech,
language and occupational therapy evaluations,” according to
Matt Doll, PhD, a psychologist with Agnesian HealthCare’s Doll
& Associates.
While Doll and others have offered services to children and
families dealing with ASD for more than 20 years, the AABCC is
the first center in the area to provide comprehensive, coordinated
help to individuals and families. Families that call the center can
expect to receive help and guidance.“Our office staff will guide
them through the process of gathering data,” according to Doll.
“The staff will see what other evaluations already exist and
coordinate with existing providers.”
After gathering all available data, center personnel schedule a
comprehensive evaluation to help parents and care providers
better understand the needs and strengths of the person with ASD.
“When we correctly diagnose areas of concern and
understand areas of strength, we can develop a treatment
plan that primarily focuses on abilities and strengths,
and to bring those to the forefront while we work around
some of the areas of concern,” says Doll.
AABCC professionals will also help connect individuals and
families with helpful community-based resources - and follow
up to make sure that families have found the help they need.
Although Darold Treffert, MD, a renowned expert on Savant
Syndrome, will not be working in direct patient care, his
knowledge and experience in this field of study are instrumental
in the establishment of this center. Dr. Treffert will be serving
as a research consultant to the team of providers working at
the center.
To learn more about the Agnesian Autism Behavior and
Communication Center, call (920) 907-8201.

06
robotic surgicaltechnology
Waupun Science Students Get Firsthand Look at New
Waupun Area Junior/Senior High School seventh grade science
students got a firsthand look at the future of surgical technology
as Robert Santa-Cruz, MD, a urologist with Agnesian HealthCare,
showed the intricacies of robotic surgery. Dr. Santa-Cruz has
been successfully performing robotic surgery for 10 years.
A total of 150 science students ventured to Agnesian HealthCare
to see the new da Vinci Surgical System, a minimally-invasive
option for complex surgical procedures.
“The present and future of robotics excites me,”
Dr. Santa-Cruz says. “From my experience, patients benefit
from a shorter recovery time and a quicker return to their
regular activities. They also experience significantly less
pain, bleeding and better clinical outcomes.”
The da Vinci system is used for surgical procedures in the
abdomen, throat and chest. It gives a surgeon greater
precision, increased range of motion, improved dexterity,
enhanced visualization and improved access.
Waupun science students made the journey after participating
in a naming suggestion contest, which was extended
by Agnesian HealthCare to area middle school science
classes. Madeline Keach approached her science teacher,
Terra Backhaus, about creating names, and arrived at
“Ambidexter,” or “Dex” for short.
Entries were also submitted by Brandon Middle School,
Lomira Middle School, St. Mary’s School (Mayville), St. Mary’s
Springs Academy, Theisen Middle School and Woodworth
Middle School.
“From talking with my teacher and using my science background,
we recognized by the da Vinci robot’s design that it resembles
human hands and their movements,” Madeline says.“When
looking up the word dexterity on-line, I found that hand dexterity
(fine motor skills) involves small muscles of the hands.”
“In addition, I researched the word ambidextrous and found
the definition ‘the use of both hands with equal facility,’”
Madeline adds.“Information on the da Vinci System web site
states that the system ‘seamlessly translates the surgeon’s
hand, wrist and finger movements into precise real time
movements of surgical instruments.’ The word ambi- means
both, and dexter - means favorable, therefore these words
combine into a new meaning, Ambidexter, using both hands
in a fluent motion.”
Dr. Santa-Cruz is using this technology for urological procedures
and brings expansive experience. He is fellowship trained in
laparoscopic urologic procedures and serves as an instructor
to other surgeons.
“This new technology is the perfect opportunity to engage
area seventh grade students in learning more about robotics
and its benefits in healthcare,” Dr. Santa-Cruz says.

07Agnesian.com
endocrinology
Agnesian HealthCare is proud to welcome a new specialty to treat
individuals with endocrine disorders.
In collaboration with Froedtert & The Medical College of Wisconsin,
James Findling, MD, and Beth Lalande, MD, are now offering
endocrinology services at St. Agnes Hospital. Both doctors are
board certified in internal medicine, endocrinology and metabolism,
and exclusively practice endocrinology.
The endocrine system is a complex network of many hormone
secreting glands and organs throughout the body, including the
hypothalamus, pituitary, thyroid, parathyroid, adrenal, pancreas,
bone, fat, ovary and testicle. Hormones secreted by the endocrine
system have broad effects throughout the body from how
individuals cope with stress and injury, to energy level and
metabolism, to growth and development, to blood pressure
control and electrolyte balance, to menstrual cyclicity, libido
and reproductive function.
Endocrinologists have the expertise to evaluate and treat patients
with common endocrine disorders, such as diabetes, thyroid
disease, cholesterol abnormalities, hypertension, obesity
and osteoporosis. They also evaluate and treat men with low
testosterone, and women with excessive facial hair and irregular
menstrual cycles. Endocrinologists additionally have expertise in
the evaluation and management of patients with adrenal tumors,
pituitary tumors and thyroid nodules and cancer. Additionally,
there are many rare endocrine diseases some of which are genetic
syndromes that endocrinologists are trained to diagnose and treat.
Drs. Findling and Lalande, along with two of their advanced
practice professionals, physician assistant Amy Burmesch and
nurse practitioner Jennifer Schaeve, provide endocrinology
consultations, diagnostic evaluations and follow-up care
to patients with endocrine disorders.
“An important part of what we do is to
educate our patients about their endocrine
diseases and treatment options, so we can
determine the best, individualized approach
to their endocrine care,” according to
Dr. Lalande.
Working collaboratively with patients to
understand their specific health concerns
is important to effective diagnosis and
treatment.“I listen carefully to my patients
and provide them with an honest opinion
of my evaluation based on many years of
clinical experience,” says Dr. Findling.
Both physicians are now accepting patients in Fond du Lac.
Call (920) 926-4530 for more information or to schedule
an appointment.
Agnesian HealthCare Welcomes New Specialty,
What does a Top 100 rural hospital look like?
Look no further than
Waupun Memorial Hospital.
For the second consecutive year, Waupun Memorial Hospital has been named
a Top 100 rural hospital in the nation, recognizing its outstanding quality care,
high patient satisfaction and overall efficiencies.
A special thanks to our providers, associates and volunteers who have dedicated their careers to caring for individuals
and families throughout the Waupun area. Our hats are off to you!

08
sunSafePLAY
Agnesian HealthCare Collaborates to Offer
Fond du Lac and surrounding areas are going to become a
little more colorful this summer as community organizations
and schools will be utilizing new tents donated by Agnesian
HealthCare to help shelter children and others during
sporting activities.
As part of the Sun Safe Soccer program,
Agnesian HealthCare has given out a total
of 100 tents to 23 organizations, which will
have a tremendous impact on promoting
sun safety for young athletes. In addition,
Agnesian HealthCare is donating single-use
sunscreen packets with each tent.
Burt Steffes, MD, a board-certified dermatologist with
Agnesian Dermatology & Skin Care Services, has been a
motivating force behind the Sun Safe Soccer Program in
this area. In fact, Agnesian HealthCare is the first healthcare
system in the state of Wisconsin to promote this program.
“We are grateful for the commitment of coaches, program
directors and role models for helping to build sun safe habits
that will stay with players for a lifetime,” according to
Dr. Steffes. “Agnesian HealthCare is a proud sponsor of
Sun Safe Soccer. The message - safety first, sunscreen
then shin guards - is simple.”
Led by the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, Sun
Safe Soccer aims to make soccer the most sun safe sport
nationwide. The program teaches soccer coaches the basics
of sun protection and motivates these coaches to pass that
knowledge on to their players and their parents.
“We really appreciate Agnesian HealthCare’s donation to the
Markesan Baseball Club,” says Skip Walker.“Our current
facility layouts provide very little shaded area for our players
and fans. So the two tents will be a great benefit while our
baseball and softball games are being played - especially
during those hot summer days!”
“I cannot express how grateful we are at North Fond du Lac
to receive these sun safe tents,” says Mike McDowell, athletic
director.“These tents are heaven sent and will give our athletes
needed protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays.”
To schedule an appointment with a board-certified
dermatologist, call (920) 926-8722.

09Agnesian.com
Workandpregnancy
Many women work during pregnancy without any complications.
Being able to work safely, in some cases, until the day of delivery
depends on the type of work performed and the mother-to-be’s
medical condition.
However, the workplace can pose certain risks, depending upon
the occupation. Knowing what these risks are and minimizing
them will help increase the likelihood of a healthy pregnancy.
Be sure to discuss the following job risks with your healthcare
provider at your first prenatal visit:
• Exposure to solvents, such as household cleaning agents
and pesticides, can lead to fetal deformity and other issues.
• Exposure to infections on the job, such as hepatitis, rubella
and other diseases, can cause multiple health concerns
during pregnancy.
• Exposure to extreme heat on the job early in pregnancy may
increase neural tube defects in the fetus.
• Physical job demands, such as prolonged standing or walking,
heavy lifting, working varying shifts and job stress, can
adversely affect a pregnancy.
“It is important that expecting women work in partnership with
their healthcare provider to determine the proper precautions
to take if exposed to these risks on the job,” according to Steven
Sheppard, DO, a board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist who
will be seeing patients at Ripon Medical Center.“This way, we can
work together to help keep expecting moms and their babies
healthy throughout the pregnancy.”
Working pregnant women can also consider:
• Take a break every few hours
• Take a longer meal break every four hours
• Drink plenty of fluids while on the job
• Vary work positions continuously, from sitting
to standing to walking
• Minimize heavy lifting and bending
Weight gain during pregnancy adds strain to the back.“Proper
lifting can help reduce the strain and prevent injury,” according
to Dr. Sheppard.“When lifting, a pregnant woman should keep in
mind the following recommendations: stand with feet shoulder-
width apart, tuck in the buttocks, bend at the knees, lift with the
arms and legs, not the back, and limit the amount and weight
of the items lifted.”
Today, many occupations involve the use of a computer. Computers
have also been associated with many concerns, such as neck,
wrist, hand, shoulder and back pain from prolonged sitting in the
same position and eye strain.
“To alleviate these symptoms, the following may
help,” according to Dr. Sheppard.“Take frequent
work breaks. Use detachable keyboards and
adjustable chairs and tables. Use non-reflective
glass on the screen, adjust the screen
lighting and contrast, and install
indirect lighting.”
Dr. Sheppard will begin seeing
patients at Ripon Medical Center,
933 Newbury Street in Ripon,
on June 10. Appointments can be
made by calling (920) 748-0430.
Guidelines for Working During Pregnancy

11Agnesian.com
DramaticDelivery
withhappyending
Piper Nicole Shady, the bouncing baby girl born to Danielle and
Dan Shady of Oakfield in late January, brought some “shock and
awe” when she entered the world. Her parents, who had arrived
at St. Agnes Hospital earlier that morning, had no idea their
daughter’s birth would require an emergency cesarean section -
performed with such urgency that there wouldn’t be time to get
Danielle fully anesthetized.
In retrospect, it’s the happy ending and their beautiful healthy
daughter the couple focuses on now. But the harrowing 20 minutes
leading up to her birth was a crisis that blindsided them.
“My pregnancy had been a normal one,” first-time mom Danielle
says, noting they arrived at the hospital soon after her water broke
that morning. What seemed like a normal labor process throughout
the day, turned into an emergency situation by late afternoon.
As her contractions increased, Danielle was given an epidural
around 4 p.m. to help block the pain. During the next hour, a crisis
situation began to develop. The baby’s heart rate was dropping
into the danger zone. The doctor who intended to deliver her baby
had been called away and was in the middle of another emergency
C-section on the same floor. Theodore Miller, MD, a board-certified
obstetrician/gynecologist with Agnesian HealthCare, was about
to leave his clinic office for the day when he received the urgent
call for help.
“I was just finishing up to go home when I got the call saying the
baby was in distress - that its heart rate was down,” Dr. Miller
says, noting the normal heart rate is well over 120, but in this
case the baby’s was down in the 70s when he arrived.
The next 20 minutes were like a frantic blur that ended in bliss for
Danielle and her husband - and for Dr. Miller and his medical team.
“In the situation of fetal distress, we don’t have the luxury of
time,” Dr. Miller says.“We knew the heart rate wasn’t normal.
Things were moving fast. I was concerned that any delay
might result in permanent injury to the child.”
With another emergency C-section taking place simultaneously,
the room Dr. Miller needed was in use and his medical team was
assisting with that C-section.“I had to assemble another crew
quickly and move Danielle to another part of the hospital.”
The race was on.
Danielle, though admittedly very scared, stayed calm knowing she
had to do whatever it took to safely bring her baby into the world
under traumatic circumstances.
“I didn’t have the option to put Danielle to sleep,” Dr. Miller says.
“She had been given an epidural before I got there, and usually
that would be adequate relief for a normal delivery. But it’s not
enough for this emergency surgical procedure. An anesthesiologist
and surgical tech were on their way to assist us but didn’t arrive
in time. It was an urgent situation and we had to proceed using
local anesthesia.”
With the frantic delivery behind them, Danielle and Dan are enjoying
the cute smiles from their precious baby Piper. They are also
grateful for the quick thinking and care they received at Agnesian
HealthCare in the midst of tense moments.

12
Strong heart
Simple Ways to Keep a
Keeping an active and healthy lifestyle is very important to
support a strong and healthy heart. While cardiovascular
exercise can include running on a treadmill, it can encompass
many other activities. For example, keeping harmful chemicals
out of your body and focusing on healthy habits is also
essential to heart health.
Below are five basic ways to keep your heart healthy:
1. Brisk walking. Whether you decide to walk around a track,
in a mall or outside, walking at a brisk pace will get your
heart pumping. You practice walking briskly when it is
cold outside and you have to get inside a warm building.
2. Healthy eating habits. Eat fewer trans fats and
hydrogenated oils, canned or processed foods, white
refined carbohydrates, fried or fatty meats like chicken
tenders and fatty steak, and whole milk. Instead focus
on increasing the amount of fiber, calcium, healthy fats
(omega 3), fruits and vegetables.
3. Take the stairs. Make an effort to take the stairs instead
of the elevator or escalator. Taking the stairs, especially
up, is a great workout for the entire body!
4. Quit smoking. The harmful chemicals found in cigarettes
are very damaging to your body. Smoking can lead to
coronary heart disease, the leading cause of death in the
United States. Smoking will also narrow the arteries and
reduce circulation, putting smokers at a higher risk of
heart failure. Agnesian HealthCare offers a smoking
cessation program. Call Journeys: a health resource center
at (920) 926-4960 for more information.
5. Park far away. Believe it or not, something as simple as
parking further away and walking is great exercise. This
is a great chance to follow tip number one and walk briskly
into the building.
To learn more, call Journeys: a health resource center at
(920) 926-4960.
Mike Mentzer and R. Eric Lilly, MD

13Agnesian.com
Stayingpositive
Fond du Lac resident Jane Carter, 58, is a true inspiration to
anyone that has undergone a kidney transplant, lost a kidney,
went back on dialysis, suffered a heart attack or dealt with
health-robbing diabetes. She’s experienced it all.
However, in spite of her health struggles, Jane’s beautiful smile,
engaging laugh and zest for life can brighten anyone’s day.
Take, for example, the families undergoing stressful moments in
St. Agnes Hospital’s Intensive Care Unit where Jane volunteers on
Monday and Friday mornings. She greets them with a smile. She
makes sure the waiting area is supplied with coffee and snacks.
Then she goes a step further…
Jane starts a jigsaw puzzle in the waiting area so visitors have
something to occupy their time.“I find it brings a smile to almost
everyone’s face,” Jane says.“I hope I help give them comfort
while their loved ones are very seriously ill.”
What they don’t realize is how ill Jane is herself. Little do they
know that when her volunteer session ends at noon, she drives
across town to Agnesian HealthCare’s Fond du Lac Dialysis Center
where she reclines in a chair for more than four hours.
Jane has no functioning kidneys in her body. Three days a week,
the Fond du Lac Dialysis Center becomes Jane’s home away from
home. With a dialysis machine next to her bed, transparent tubes
reveal what’s happening as Jane’s blood can be seen running
through them. The dialysis process removes waste, toxins, salt
and extra water from her body - a task her kidneys would do if
her own were still properly functioning.
Dialysis is keeping Jane alive as she awaits her second kidney
transplant. Her body rejected her first transplanted kidney in
2010, and she has been receiving dialysis ever since. “I hope
I get a new kidney soon,” she says.
“Approximately 2,000 people in Wisconsin are waiting for an
organ transplant,” Jane says.“My wish is that this article will
help bring awareness to the seriousness of kidney disease and
to the importance of organ donation. I hope more people will
decide to donate.”
in Spite of Kidney Issues
2,OOO People in
Wisconsin are
Waiting for an
Organ Transplant.
DONATE
LIFE
DONATE Life • YesIWillWisconsin.com

14
unrestrictedFUNDS
AHC Foundation’s 2013 Annual Appeal Focuses on
This year, the Agnesian HealthCare Foundation annual appeal will be helping to raise money
for its unrestricted fund, which helps support a wide range of projects that bring ultimate
benefits to patients. Take for example:
Massage Therapy. Enhanced quality of life, improved coping and reducing symptoms – the
Agnesian HealthCare Foundation is helping to provide massage therapy to patients at the
Agnesian Cancer Center.
“Studies suggest that massage can decrease stress, anxiety, depression, pain and fatigue
in cancer patients,” says Rita Meidam, Agnesian HealthCare Foundation executive director.
“As a foundation, we look for opportunities to help our patients and their families in any
way we can during their journey with us.”
Soothing Music. Agnesian HealthCare offers alternative therapies to help patients relax and
heal in a different way, and to compliment the care they receive in the Intensive Care Unit.
“We have been blessed to offer soothing harp music from local musician Deborah Guy
thanks to individuals that have given to our unrestricted funds,” says Meidam.“This music
helps to give them strength, the willingness to go on and the peacefulness they need to
forge ahead.”
When individuals give generously to support “unrestricted funds” through the Agnesian
HealthCare Foundation, they are opening up new doors for patients and families.
Watch for more information
on the 2013 annual appeal,
or call (920) 926-4959
for details.
The Agnesian HealthCare Foundation
is helping to fund a project at the
Agnesian Cancer Center designed to
help female cancer patients enhance
their appearance and self-image during
chemotherapy and radiation treatments.
The Foundation is funding the purchase
of wigs for patients utilizing services
at the Agnesian Cancer Center, 480
E. Division Street in Fond du Lac.
“We are able to offer our cancer patients
the convenience of coming to the
Agnesian Cancer Center’s wig boutique
where our associates will assist them
in their selection,” according to
Bill Daly, Agnesian HealthCare director
of Oncology Services. “We have a variety
of styles and price ranges, as well as a
group of wigs that are at ‘no charge.’”
In addition, patients will also be able
to see other options available through
the Agnesian Health Shoppe.
Helping cancer
patients recover
their self-esteem

Agnesian.com 15
Garden Walk & Art Fair
July 14, 2013 - Rain or Shine
This year’s Agnesian HealthCare Garden Walk will offer five area
gardens to view in Fond du Lac, Lomira and Waupun. The event
is set from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets will be available at select
locations for $12, as well as at the gardens the day of the event.
Call (920) 926-4959 to purchase tickets or for more information.
Hospice Hope Cancer Care Charity Open
August 19, 2013
All net proceeds from the 25th annual Hospice Hope Cancer
Care Charity Open benefit patients and families in need of
hospice or cancer care. The event is conducted annually at
South Hills Golf & Country Club in Fond du Lac. Currently, the
Charity Open committee is making plans for another great day
of golf, elegant dining, raffle prizes and an exciting auction.
A limited number of raffle tickets will be sold at four for $150
or $50 each.
House Raffle
Through October 30, 2013
The Agnesian HealthCare Foundation is putting a new twist
on its Samaritan Health Clinic raffle house, located at the
Westfield Hideaway subdivision, lot 76 on Hideaway Lane. The
raffle drawing is slated for Wednesday, October 30, just in time
for the lucky winner to move into a new home for the holidays.
The raffle, now in its 18th year and sponsored by the Agnesian
HealthCare Foundation, is the main source of funding for the
Samaritan Health Clinic’s operations. All proceeds help provide
patients with important basic healthcare services, medications
and urgent dental needs. Tickets are $50 each or $150 for four.
Spring/Summer Events at the Foundation
AHC Foundation
Giving Methods
Gifts to the Agnesian HealthCare
Foundation may be made through a
variety of tax-deductible methods
including: cash or check, gifts of stock,
securities, life insurance, and bequests
through one’s will. Charitable donations
can also be made on-line by visiting
agnesian.com under Giving/Make
a Donation.
For more information about the
Foundation, its events or to make
a donation, call (920) 926-4959 or
e-mail the Foundation office at
waisanenp@agnesian.com.
Caring for Our
Community
The Agnesian HealthCare Foundation, a
charitable tax-exempt organization, exists
to solicit, accept, acknowledge and invest
charitable gifts, grants and bequests to
help meet the many healthcare needs of
the people served by Agnesian HealthCare.
Our Mission
The effective and efficient development,
financial management and granting
of philanthropic support for Agnesian
HealthCare to promote health and
wellness in Fond du Lac and surrounding
communities through the programs and
services of Agnesian HealthCare.
Agnesian HealthCare
Foundation Board of
Directors
Jack E. Twohig, Chairperson
Joseph A. Bird, Vice-Chairperson
Milan D. Vande Zande, Secretary/Treasurer
Rita M. Meidam, Executive Director
Katherine K. Bresser
S. Mary Noel Brown, CSA
Joan M. Cunningham
Punit Kumar, MD
Steven N. Little
Karen L. Meyer, MD
Kevin P. Michels
S. Marie Scott, CSA
Michael R. Shannon
Michael J. Spaude
Catherine Twohig McGalloway, DDS
David R. Weber, MD

16
AEDs forcardiacemergencies
Foundation for RMC Golf Outing to Help Provide
The Foundation for
Giving Methods
Gifts to the Foundation for Ripon Medical Center
may be made through a variety of tax-deductible
methods including: cash or check, gifts of stock,
securities, life insurance, and bequests through
one’s will.
For more information about the Foundation for
Ripon Medical Center, its events or to make a
donation, call (920) 926-4959.
Caring for Our Community
The Foundation for Ripon Medical Center serves
to enhance the health of the people of the greater
Ripon area by lending its financial support to
Ripon Medical Center.
Our Vision
Out of a commitment to the residents in our
rural setting, the Foundation for Ripon Medical
Center partners with individuals, businesses and
organizations to provide focused support for those
needs of Ripon Medical Center that will help it to
continue its pledge of excellence in all that it does
to provide healthcare to those who it serves.
Foundation for Ripon Medical Center
Board of Directors
Jean E. Johnson, MD, President
Lionel L. Baird, Vice President
Mary Ann Lyke, Secretary
H. Anderson Lyke, Treasurer
Rita M. Meidam, Executive Director
Katherine Vergos, Chief Operating Officer
M. Betsy Blazek
David N. Duehring
Mark S. Edinger, DC, DABCO
Joan A. Karsten
Patricia R. Lubinsky
Wayne C. Mannebach, PhD
Harley A. Reabe
Victor H. Roeder, III, OD
Kathryn A. Schwandt
Blake E. Waterhouse, MD
At the time of a cardiac crisis, minutes matter. Many lives can be saved with earlier
access to AED, a defibrillator that monitors the heartbeat and delivers shocks through
adhesive pads placed on a person’s chest.
The Foundation for Ripon Medical Center knows that life can change in the blink of
an eye. As a result, it is directing the proceeds from its annual Charity Golf Outing
to help provide area businesses and organizations with lifesaving AEDs.
The golf outing is changing dates in 2013, now set for Tuesday, June 18 on the
Woodlands course at the Golf Courses of Lawsonia. It will begin at 9 a.m. with
registration and a shotgun start at 11:30 a.m. Dinner, along with a silent auction,
will round out the evening and begin at 5 p.m. Call (920) 926-4959 to register.
“We are proud to designate our proceeds so we can offer these life-saving devices
to area businesses and organizations,” says Rita Meidam, Foundation for Ripon
Medical Center executive director.“We know that AEDs do make a difference for
individuals in sudden cardiac arrest. In fact, studies have repeatedly shown the
importance of immediate bystander CPR plus defibrillation when given within
three to five minutes of a patient collapsing.”
Save the Date!
2O13 Charity Golf Outing
The Golf Courses of Lawsonia, Green Lake
11:30 a.m. Shotgun Start
Call (920) 926-4959 to register.
Tuesday, June 18, 2013

Cholesterol:Up with the Good…But How?
Once upon a time, cholesterol seemed easy: high cholesterol was
bad, and you did everything you could - exercise, lose weight, eat
a low-fat diet - to lower it.
Even then, it was known that one kind of cholesterol, HDL or
high-density lipoprotein, is actually good for cardiovascular health
and should be kept high. But most of the lifestyle measures that
lower LDL, or bad cholesterol, also tend to raise HDL as well.
“With the introduction of cholesterol-lowering medications, the story
became more complex,” according to Michael Jones, DO, a board-
certified family medicine physician with Agnesian HealthCare in
Waupun.“The best of these medications tend to be very effective
at lowering LDL, but not so effective at increasing HDL. And a few
individuals who succeed in getting their LDL cholesterol to an
acceptable level through drugs still have heart attacks, probably
because their HDL is not high enough.”
As a result, scientists continue to study new drugs and combinations
that might be even more effective than existing ones by raising the
“good” while lowering the “bad.”
The benefits of high HDL have been well-established. Observational
studies have for decades shown that individuals with high levels
of HDL (40 mg/dL or higher for a male, 50 mg/dL for a female) live
longer and are less likely to have a heart attack than individuals
with lower levels.
Studies show associations rather than cause and effect.
“Major ways of increasing HDL are weight loss, exercise,
moderate alcohol consumption and not smoking,” according
to Richard McMahon, DO, a board-certified family medicine
physician with Agnesian HealthCare in Waupun.“In studies, men
who lived to age 85 were also more likely than other subjects
to be of normal weight and to have these heart-healthy habits.”
One important function of HDL is reverse cholesterol transport. It
removes excess LDL from the arteries and transports it to the liver.
Studies have found reverse cholesterol transport to be an important
factor in protecting against heart disease.
“Women tend to have higher HDL levels than men, and exercise
is known to be very effective in boosting blood levels,” says Jan
Drews, APNP, a nurse practitioner with Agnesian HealthCare in
Waupun.“Mediterranean-type diets, with their focus on omega-3
fatty acids, monounsaturated fats (such as olive oil) and nuts,
have been recommended for cardiovascular health in part
because of their effect on HDL cholesterol.”
It’s not a question of whether HDL is “good.” The question is
rather how HDL can be raised and how well these high-density
lipoproteins do their work of moving and removing excess LDL.
“The winners of all these studies are those who get their HDL up the
old-fashioned way,” Dr. Jones says.“That’s through regular aerobic
exercise, weight control, a heart-healthy diet and good habits.”
From left to right: Punit Kumar, MD; Robert Nagle, DO; Michael Jones, DO; Richard McMahon, DO;
Peter Timmermans, MD; Robert Newton, DO; Jan Drews, APNP; Richard Parish, PA-C 17Agnesian.com

Feature Programs
Swallowing for a Lifetime
Dysphagia is the inability to swallow foods or liquids
with ease. People that have a hard time swallowing
may choke on their food or liquid. This symptom isn’t
always indicative of a medical condition. In fact,
swallowing difficulty may be temporary and go away
on its own.
Join Kerry Winget, AuD, CCC-SLP/A, a certified speech
and language pathologist with Agnesian HealthCare,
as she shares information about the normal effects of
aging on swallowing, and safety concerns that might
arise. Common signs and symptoms of dysphagia will
be discussed. Learn basic strengthening exercises and
strategies to take pills.
Agnesian HealthCare Plaza Level Conference Center
430 E. Division Street, Fond du Lac
Tuesday, May 14, 6 to 7 p.m.
$5 per student
Free Varicose Vein Leg
Screening Event
Do you experience discomfort, swelling and varicose
veins of the legs? If so, you may be suffering from
superficial venous reflux disease. Traditionally,
patients diagnosed with venous reflux would undergo
vein stripping surgery. Now, patients can be treated
with the VENEFIT procedure - a minimally-invasive
and more comfortable alternative.
Join Richard Schaefer, MD, board-certified Fond du Lac
Regional Clinic plastic surgeon, and Toni Stanley, MD,
board-certified Fond du Lac Regional Clinic general
surgeon, for a free consultation that will determine
your candidacy for the VENEFIT procedure.
Free. Space is limited. Preregistration is required.
Participants should wear comfortable clothing, and
arrive 10 minutes before scheduled appointment.
Agnesian HealthCare Journeys: a health
resource center
Thursday, May 23, 4 to 6 p.m.
Free
Yoga
Join Sigrun Columbia-Navis, certified yoga instructor
with the Fond du Lac Center for Spirituality and Healing,
for a four-week yoga program designed for the beginner
and intermediate yoga student.
Students will utilize the techniques learned in Beginning
Yoga, as well as learn more challenging poses that
are held longer to further increase strength, balance
and flexibility.
St. Agnes Chapel
Tuesdays, May 28 to June 18, 5 to 6:30 p.m.
$40 per student
Vinyasa Flow Yoga
Vinyasa Flow Yoga balances the body and clears the
energy channels to bring the body back to balance.
A more energetic approach to yoga, Vinyasa Flow
Yoga links movement to breath while each posture
flows into the next.
Join Amy Jarvis, a registered yoga instructor with Yoga
Alliance, for a four-week Vinyasa Flow Yoga class that
provides participants with a great workout and a calm
mind with instruction on deep breathing to increase
body strength.
St. Agnes Chapel
Wednesdays, June 5 to 26, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
$40 per student
or
Wednesdays, July 10 to 31, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
$40 per student
or
Wednesdays, August 7 to 28, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
$40 per student
Ripon Medical
Center Programs
Healing Hearts Cardiac
Support Group
Healing Hearts is focused on helping those living with a
chronic heart condition, or after a heart attack or heart
surgery. The group is also open to anyone interested in
reducing their risk of heart disease.
Ripon Medical Center Green Lake Room
933 Newbury Street, Ripon
Third Tuesday of every month, September through May
6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Free
Cancer Support Connection
The Cancer Support Connection is an opportunity to
connect with others who are affected by cancer. Sessions
consist of topic discussions, personalized issues, group
discussions and more. The group is open to anyone
dealing with cancer; patients, family members, friends
and other loved ones. No registration is required.
For more information on the Cancer Support Connection,
contact Linda Powell at (920) 748-9134.
Free
Advance Directive Workshop
Staff will be available to answer questions and assist
individuals in completing a Health Care Power of
Attorney and/or Living Will.
Ripon Medical Center Princeton Room
933 Newbury Street, Ripon
Second Tuesday of every month, 2:30 p.m.
Free
18
Community Calendar

19Agnesian.com
Core Classes
CPR Classes
Classes are offered at St. Agnes Hospital and
Ripon Medical Center.

Family and Friends CPR
Tuesday, July 9, 6 to 9:30 p.m.
$25 per person
Heartsaver AED
Thursday, August 22, 6 to 9:30 p.m.
$40 per person
St. Agnes Hospital
Tuesday, June 11, 6 to 9:30 p.m.
Tuesday, August 6, 6 to 9:30 p.m.
$40 per person
Heartsaver AED Renewal
Journeys: a health resource center
430 E. Division Street
Tuesday, June 16, 6 to 9:30 p.m.
$25 per person
Healthcare Provider CPR
Wednesday, June 12, 6 to 9:30 p.m.
Wednesday, August 14, 6 to 9:30 p.m.
$40 per person
St. Agnes Hospital
$40 per person
Healthcare Provider CPR Renewal
St. Agnes Hospital
$25 per person
Safe Sitter®
Children ages 11 to 14 are encouraged to take the
Safe Sitter®
class to become better baby-sitters.
Topics include how to handle emergencies, safety
precautions, choking child and infant rescue, child
development and much more.
St. Agnes Hospital
Wednesdays, June 19 & 26, 1 to 3:30 p.m.
$40 per student
Waupun Memorial Hospital
Wednesday, July 24, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
$40 per student
Friday, August 16, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
$40 per student
Prepared Childbirth
Class topics include information on nutrition, fetal
growth and development, mechanics of labor,
breathing and relaxation, types of deliveries, physical
and emotional needs of the mother and coach.
St. Agnes Hospital
Wednesday, June 12, 5:30 to 9:30 p.m.
Saturday, July 13, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Wednesday, August 14, 5:30 to 9:30 p.m.
$30 per couple
Thursday, June 13, 5:30 to 9 p.m.
Thursday, July 11, 5:30 to 9 p.m.
Thursday, August 15, 5:30 to 9 p.m.
$30 per couple
Breastfeeding for Moms & Dads
Breastfeeding for Moms and Dads will provide you
and your partner with information on how to begin
breastfeeding with confidence and develop a true
sense of security.
St. Agnes Hospital
Wednesday, June 5, 6:30 to 9 p.m.
Wednesday, July 3, 6:30 to 9 p.m.
Wednesday, August 7, 6:30 to 9 p.m.
Free
Wednesday, July 17, 6:30 to 9 p.m.
Free
Cesarean Section Class
The Cesarean Section class is designed for women
and their partner who will have a first-time cesarean
section, repeat section or possible vaginal birth after
cesarean section.
Please call St. Agnes Hospital’s Women & Infants
Unit at 926-4800 for class listing and availability.
Free
Prepared Childbirth Refresher
This class is for expectant parents who have already
experienced the birth of a child, but feel they would
be better prepared if they had a review of labor and
delivery, breathing and relaxation.
Please call Journeys: a health resource center
at 926-4960 for appointment availability.
Free
Baby Care Basics
This class provides instruction and demonstration
regarding infant care, such as feeding, bathing,
navel care, circumcision care and diapering.
St. Agnes Hospital
Thursday, May 23, 6 to 8:30 p.m.
Thursday, June 27, 6 to 8:30 p.m.
Thursday, July 25, 6 to 8:30 p.m.
Thursday, August 22, 6 to 8:30 p.m.
$30 per couple
Infant Massage
Infant massage is nourishment for the healthy
development of a baby’s mind, body and spirit.
Learn how the loving touch of infant massage lessens
a baby’s tension, fussiness and irritability; enhances
bonding; aids in growth and development; improves
baby’s sleep; and increases circulation. This class is
for newborns that are not yet crawling.
St. Agnes Hospital
Tuesday, May 28, 10 to 11:30 a.m.
Tuesday, July 23, 6:30 to 8 p.m.
$20 per family
Breastfeeding Support Group
This support group offers new mothers/parents an
opportunity to share common concerns and solutions
regarding breastfeeding.
St. Agnes Hospital
The group meets the second Wednesday of every month
from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. and the fourth Wednesday
of every month from 6:30 to 8 p.m.
Dale Michels Center for Heart
Care Cardiac Support Group
Caring for Your Heart Club is a free monthly program,
scheduled over the noon hour that gives participants
an opportunity to share their concerns with others
having similar experiences and to design ways to cope
with the challenges that arise from a heart disease
diagnosis.
Guest speakers include professionals in the field of
cardiac care. In addition, videotapes, print materials
and class discussion provide up-to-date information
for patients, family and friends. Lunch is provided.
St. Agnes Hospital
Monday, May 20, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
“Proper Nutrition”
Free
Cancer Support Group
Individuals and families are invited to learn more
about cancer and meet with other to share their
thoughts to help increase their confidence and sense
of well-being in the midst of physical, emotional and
spiritual challenges they may be facing.
Second Wednesday of every month, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.
Free
Sleep Apnea Support Group
The sleep apnea support group is a free support group
for individuals with sleep apnea, and anyone interested
in learning more about sleep apnea.
Wednesday, July 17, 6 to 7:30 p.m.
Free

430 East Division Street
Fond du Lac, WI 54935
Agnesian Health Shoppe
327 Winnebago Drive
(920) 926-5277
Agnesian Pharmacy
145 N. Main Street
(920) 921-4660
With locations in Fond du Lac,
Brownsville, Markesan, Mayville,
North Fond du Lac and Waupun
Consultants Laboratory
(920) 929-9300
(920) 923-7400
933 Newbury Street
Ripon, WI 54971
(920) 748-3101
St. Agnes Hospital
(920) 929-2300
St. Francis Home
33 Everett Street
(920) 923-7980
620 West Brown Street
Waupun, WI 53963
(920) 324-5581
To explore employment opportunities at
Agnesian HealthCare, visit agnesian.com
or call (920) 926-5712.

Non-profit org
U.S. Postage
PAID
Permit No. 354
Fond du Lac, WI
Agnesian HealthCare is working to offer educational and entertaining activities and
events to help provide the resources for area individuals and families to make informed
choices about their overall health and well-being.
An upcoming open house will provide the perfect outlet to see firsthand the many new
developments available locally for those individuals facing a cancer diagnosis at the
Agnesian Cancer Center.
The open house is scheduled on Thursday, July 25 at the Agnesian Cancer Center,
480 E. Division Street in Fond du Lac. Save the date for a chance to tour the newly-
remodeled, state-of-the-art facility. Interact with the center’s skilled providers,
and learn about the many ways that the Agnesian Cancer Center is providing
a full spectrum of care, close to home.
Last year, Agnesian HealthCare’s Hot August Nights brought fun activities to the
Fond du Lac area community, while sharing the many services offered by Richard
Schaefer, MD, a board-certified plastic
surgeon. This year, the date has been
scheduled for Wednesday, August 21
at the Agnesian Plastic Surgery &
Cosmetic Services location at
1088 S. Main Street in Fond du Lac.
Upcomingevents
helpeducate&entertain

Living In Good Health Spring/Summer 2013

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Living In Good Health Spring/Summer 2013