The race course in and around Jasper, Indiana has been described as “very fast” which should make the second annual running of the Heartland Half Marathon nothing less than exciting! The Half Marathon and 5K Run/Walk event is slated for Sunday, September 1 – during the middle of Labor Day Weekend – in Dubois County, just west of the Hoosier National Forest in southwestern Indiana.

Jasper - To bring more awareness to cardiovascular diseases, Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center is sponsoring a combination PAD, AAA, and stroke screening on Wednesday, May 29 and Thursday, May 30 at Memorial Cardiovascular Services located at 440 Scott Rolen Drive in Jasper. These screenings allow individuals with certain risk factors the opportunity to assess their health status.

Jasper, Ind. – Urological issues affect many people. Major issues include: elevated PSA, incontinence, kidney stones, overactive bladder, erectile dysfunction, and cancer (kidney, prostate, bladder and testis). During this HealthMatters program, Dr. Gilley will discuss various urological issues and ways to get tested and receive treatment.

Jasper – Scott Beckman, M.D. has been named the 2013 Little Company of Mary Outstanding Physician Award winner at Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center. This award is named in honor of the Sisters of the Little Company of Mary, the sponsors of Memorial Hospital. The LCM Award is given annually to a physician on Memorial Hospital’s active medical staff who has been nominated through a hospital- and community-wide nomination process with the winner being chosen by a selection committee from a group of six finalists. The award is based on outstanding performance reflecting Memorial Hospital’s mission statement and the core values of Respect for Human Dignity, Compassionate Caring, Stewardship, Quality and Justice.

Tired of diet plans that are impossible to stick with or leave you feeling hungry? Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center is offering a new program “Diet-Free: Eight Habits That Will Change Your Life.” This nine-week video seminar, led by a registered dietitian, is a weight-loss program that coaches you through eight diet-free habits that will guide you toward a healthier life.

“Zumba®,” a fitness program offered by Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center, combines fast and slow Latin rhythms with dance moves that are easy to follow, energizing and toning the body while burning calories.

Emergency physician Stephen Sample, M.D. was recently appointed to the Active Medical Staff at Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center. Dr. Sample received his medical degree at University of Louisville School of Medicine and completed a residency in emergency medicine at San Antonio Uniformed Services Health Consortium in Texas. He is board certified in emergency medicine and a member of the American College of Emergency Physicians.

Sleep-related difficulties, typically called sleep disorders, affect many people. Major sleep disorders include: insomnia (the inability to fall or stay asleep), hypersomnia (excessive daytime sleepiness), Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS), and sleep apnea (interrupted sleep caused by periodic gasping or snorting noises or momentarily suspension of breathing). During the HealthMatters program on Tuesday, March 19, pulmonologist Dr. Sohail Qadir will discuss various sleep disorders and ways to get tested and receive treatment.

“Jazzercise®” is a new 8-week fitness program at Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center that combines dance-based cardio with strength training and stretching to sculpt, tone and lengthen muscles for maximum fat burn. Choreographed to today’s music, “Jazzercise®” is a fusion of jazz dance, resistance training, Pilates, Yoga and kickboxing. Routines are fun and easy to follow.

Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center is offering the Kathleen M. Tempel Nursing Scholarship to a student who has been admitted or plans to enroll in a nursing program leading to an associate or bachelor’s degree in nursing. The scholarship was created in memory of the late Kathy Tempel, former Vice President of Patient Services at Memorial Hospital. The desired outcome is that the recipient returns to the southern Indiana area to work in nursing following graduation. Past recipients may apply annually if they wish. The scholarship is a one-time grant of up to $1,500.

Parkinson’s disease is a degenerative disorder of the central nervous system. Symptoms include tremors or trembling in the hands, arms, legs, jaw or head; rigidity or stiffness of the limbs and trunk; slowness of movement; and postural instability or impaired balance. The disease is both chronic, meaning it persists over a long period of time, and progressive, meaning its symptoms grow worse over time. It is estimated that 50,000 Americans are diagnosed each year with this disease that has no cure.

The Lange-Fuhs Cancer Center at Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center offers a support group for women who have had cancer of any type or who are currently undergoing cancer treatment. “Women’s Support Group” helps women with the journey through cancer and beyond.

Family Physician David Bell, M.D. was recently appointed to the Active Medical Staff at Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center. Dr. Bell received his medical degree from University of Louisville Medical School and completed a residency in family practice at University of Massachusetts. He previously served as president of Narragansett Family Medicine in Templeton, Massachusetts and as hospitalist with Deaconess Care Group in Evansville.

E. Kyle Bennett has been named chief operating officer of Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center in an announcement made by Ray Snowden, the hospital’s president/CEO. Snowden also noted the promotion of Randy Russell, the hospital’s controller, to the position of vice president of finance and chief financial officer (CFO). In addition, along with his role as president/CEO, Snowden is now serving in a dual capacity as chairman of the hospital’s Board of Directors, replacing Bob Disinger who was named interim board chairman after the death of Sr. M. Adrian Davis, LCM in May 2012.

In support and recognition of exceptional and exemplary devotion to continuing Christ’s healing mission, Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center will begin presenting an annual Outstanding Little Company of Mary Physician Award to a deserving physician in 2013. This award is named after the Sisters of the Little Company of Mary, the sponsors of Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center.

A special morning devoted to women’s health is planned for Saturday, January 12, 2013 from 9:00 until 11:30 a.m. at the Huntingburg Event Center. Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center’s “Women of the Heartland” will feature presentations by Dr. Adam Dawkins, Dr. Kris Gunn, and Dr. Kristi Nord.

The Jasper Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center, is sponsoring a public health screening on Wednesday, January 23 from 5:45 – 9:00 a.m. at Memorial Southside Office, located at 1100 West 12th Avenue in Jasper. The cost of the screening is $35, and is open to those who live or work in the Jasper area.

Tired of diet plans that are impossible to stick with or leave you feeling hungry? Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center is offering a new program "Diet-Free: Eight Habits That Will Change Your Life." This nine-week video seminar, led by a registered dietitian, is a weight-loss program that coaches you through eight diet-free habits that will guide you toward a healthier life.

Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center is offering “Six-By-Six,” a 12-week program designed to improve your overall health through nutritional education and fitness. During “Six-By-Six,” you will learn how exercise and healthy eating work together to achieve a healthy weight and improve your overall health.

Ann Steffe has been named the 2012 Little Company of Mary Award winner at Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center. The LCM Award is given annually to an employee nominated by his or her co-workers and chosen from a group of finalists by the hospital’s Mission Committee. Nominees for this award demonstrate Memorial Hospital’s mission and core values through their daily work.

"Jazzercise®" is a new 8-week fitness program at Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center that combines dance-based cardio with strength training and stretching to sculpt, tone and lengthen muscles for maximum fat-burn. Choreographed to today’s music, “Jazzercise®” is a fusion of jazz dance, resistance training, Pilates, Yoga and kickboxing. Routines are fun and easy to follow.

Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center is offering Prostate Cancer Screening for men age 50 and over or for those with a high risk for prostate cancer. The screening will take place at Memorial Southside Office, 1100 West 12th Avenue, Jasper on Tuesday, January 29 and Wednesday, January 30 from 6:00 - 9:30 a.m. Results will be mailed to participants.

Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center is offering Yoga Fitness, a total mind and body workout featuring cardiovascular conditioning, functional strength, flexibility, muscle balance, relaxation and breath work. Yoga is appropriate for all ages with at least a beginner fitness level.

Do you have a schedule that leaves little time to work out? Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center now offers "Cardio HIIT," a 20-minute workout that alternates between bursts of high-intensity activity with less-intense periods for a great workout in less time.

Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center is offering a new, beginning aerobics class. "Step It Away Beginner" is a basic aerobics class that uses an elevated platform to tone and strengthen muscles, while boosting cardiovascular fitness. Jill Memmer, an American College of Sports Medicine Certified Health Fitness Specialist, instructs the class.

To bring more awareness to cardiovascular diseases, Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center is sponsoring a combination PAD, AAA, and stroke screening at Memorial Cardiovascular Services located at 440 Scott Rolen Drive in Jasper. These screenings allow individuals with certain risk factors the opportunity to assess their health status.

Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center is offering Creating Hope® sessions on January 8 and 15 from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. These sessions are designed for cancer patients, their families and caregivers. Art materials and an instructional book are available at each session. No previous art experience is needed.

Dementia is a brain disorder that seriously affects a person’s ability to carry out daily activities. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia among older people. It involves the parts of the brain that control thought, memory and language.

Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center is sponsoring a “First Friday Health Screening” on Friday, January 4, 2013 from 7:00 – 9:00 a.m. in the Community Relations Classroom at Memorial Southside Office, 1100 West 12th Avenue in Jasper. Participants must be 18 years of age or older and will have cholesterol (total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, and triglycerides) and blood glucose checked via finger stick. A 12-hour fast is required; however, participants may drink water and take prescribed medications.

A public forum for anyone interested in learning more about bariatric surgery is scheduled for Saturday, December 8 at 9:00 a.m. in the Medical Arts Building Conference Center, located at 721 West 13^th Street in Jasper.

Krista Schroering, Director of Medical Practice Management and Support Services at Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center, was recently awarded the Employee of the Year Award during the Indiana Primary Health Care Association’s 2012 annual conference. This award recognizes a primary health employee who has demonstrated excellence through patient advocacy, innovative programs/services/systems, and collaborative efforts.

Just eighteen months after breaking ground at the corner of 13th and Bartley Streets, the staff of Jasper’s newest medical facility will host a dedication ceremony and open house for the public. The event at St. Thomas Medical Center is slated for Saturday, December 8, 2012 at 3:00 p.m. (EST) at 600 West 13th Street in Jasper. Most Reverend Charles C. Thompson, Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Evansville, will bless the building during the ceremony which will take place outside, weather permitting, under the canopy at the South / 13th Street Entrance. After the dedication ceremony, the building will be open to the public for tours until 5:00 p.m.

Pediatrician Anna Csitkovits Gilley, M.D. was recently appointed to the Medical Staff at Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center. Dr. Gilley received her medical degree at Indiana University School of Medicine in Indianapolis, where she also completed her internship and residency. She was Chief Resident in the Department of Pediatrics from 2009-2010.

Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center’s Medical Staff is awarding a $500 scholarship to area high school seniors entering a two- to four-year educational program in a health-related field. To qualify, the applicant must maintain at least a "B" (3.0 on a 4.0 grading scale) grade point average. Other criteria for consideration include SAT scores, financial need, and community involvement. A brief essay is required along with letters of reference.

Urologist David Gilley, M.D. was recently appointed to the Medical Staff at Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center. Dr. Gilley received his undergraduate degree in mechanical engineering from Purdue University, and his medical degree at Indiana University School of Medicine in Indianapolis.

Urologist Kris Gunn, M.D. was recently appointed to the Medical Staff at Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center. Dr. Gunn received his medical degree at Indiana University School of Medicine in Indianapolis.

Angela Persohn, BSN, RN, CRRN, a nurse at Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center’s Inpatient Rehab Center, was recently awarded the Association of Rehabilitation Nurse’s (ARN) Staff Nurse Role Award during the ARN’s annual national education conference in Nashville, TN. The award recognizes outstanding practice by a rehabilitation nurse in a direct patient-care role.

Eight Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center employees have been nominated for the 2012 Little Company of Mary Award, named for the Sisters of the Little Company of Mary, the religious organization that sponsors Memorial Hospital.

Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center has received the Women’s Choice Award from WomenCertified® distinguishing it as one of the 2012 America’s Best Hospitals for Patient Experience. The award is based on robust criteria that consider female patient satisfaction and what women say they want from a hospital including quality physician communications, responsiveness of nurses and support staff, cleanliness and trusted referrals from other women. WomenCertified® represents the collective voice of female consumers and is a trusted referral source for top businesses and brands identified as meeting the needs and preferences of women.

Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center is sponsoring a "First Friday Health Screening" on Friday, November 2, 2012 from 7:00 – 9:00 a.m. in the Community Relations Classroom at Memorial Southside Office, 1100 West 12th Avenue in Jasper. Participants must be 18 years of age or older and will have cholesterol (including total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, and triglycerides) and blood glucose checked via finger stick. A 12-hour fast is required; however, you may drink water and take prescribed medications.

Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center’s Ambulance Services department was recognized with the Ambulance Provider Public Relations Award given by the Indiana Emergency Medical Services Commission and the Indiana Fire Chiefs’ Association at the 2012 Indiana Emergency Response Conference.

Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center is offering YogaFit^®, a Hatha style of yoga designed for a total mind and body workout. YogaFit^® features cardiovascular conditioning, functional strength, flexibility, muscle balance, relaxation and breath work, and is appropriate for all ages with at least a beginner fitness level.

Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center is offering various diabetes classes to help those with the disease take control of their lives. "Outsmarting Diabetes," a program that teaches participants how to control their diabetes using medication, self-monitoring, nutrition, and physical activity is offered as either a four-hour class on Fridays from 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., or two, two-hour classes on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. A physician's referral is required.

Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center, Doug Bawel, Jasper Engines & Transmissions President & CEO, Dr. Stephen Cullen, and Dr. Donald Kerr were recognized by the Indiana Rural Health Association at the 15th Annual Rural Health Conference. The awards ceremony was held on Friday, June 15 at the JW Marriott Indianapolis.