FALL \ WINTER 2016
Help build an innovative Emergency Department to better serve our region for decades to come Benefis Foundation launches campaign to raise $2.5 million for project
p ediatric Hospitalist Dr. Nora Gerrity Patients were being taken to rooms in empty neighboring remembers a day she was called to the departments, which hadn’t been used in years for Benefis Emergency Department because clinical purposes. a child had drowned. The emergency team Inefficient patient flow. Enormous wait times. Not enough was working fast in that trauma room; room. To put it plain and simple: this just isn’t working. But every moment counted. The hallway was Benefis Health System has a solution – it’s time to build a filled with the boy’s family members, who new Emergency Department and, once again, we need were emotional and praying for his life. Dr. Nora Gerrity donor support to make it the best it can be for when you In a nearby room sat an adolescent who was suffering with or your loved ones face your worst day. emotional distress and having suicidal thoughts. Dr. Gerrity recalls “The Emergency Department is one place wishing he could be taken to a distant room that was quiet, we hope we never have to visit,” said Chris calming and safe – a room where he wouldn’t hear the chaotic Reiquam, Chair of the Benefis Foundation Board sounds in the hallway right outside. and co-chair of the Emergency Department Scott Schandelson, manager of Benefis Emergency Services, campaign. “But, in reality, the majority of us remembers the catastrophic ice storm that hit Great Falls last at one time will need to visit, and when winter and how the Emergency Department was bursting at the that time comes we want it to be efficient, seams because of it. All of the department’s 14 rooms plus its well-equipped and not overcrowded.” Chris Reiquam four trauma rooms were full. The waiting room was packed. The current Emergency Department opened in 1998, shortly after the Deaconess and Columbus Hospitals merged to create Benefis Health System. The state-of-the-art department came to be thanks to the generosity of two Great Falls families – Carter and Judy Williams and Keith and Olive Ario – who made the lead gifts to bring the project to life. When the Williams-Ario Regional Emergency & Trauma Center first opened, the physicians and highly trained nursing staff were delivering exceptional care to around 24,000 patients a year. Our emergency care providers continue to offer exceptional care, but the number of patients has grown to more than 34,000 a year and the department wasn’t built to handle that volume. Still, all patients are accepted regardless of their ability to pay.
Continued on page 2
BENEFIS1 HEALTH FALL / SYSTEMWINTER 2016 FOUNDATION GENEROSITY HEALS Emergency Department Campaign
Benefis Health Continued from the cover System Foundation Board of Directors Benefis has come up with an innovative solution The new Emergency Department will & Staff to the Emergency Department challenges that will incorporate many improvements and serve our region for decades to come. innovations, such as: Officers Chris R. Reiquam, Chair The Benefis Foundation Board of Directors has A covered entrance canopy to the reception Shannon E. Hoiland, Vice Chair committed to raising $2.5 million of the $12.5 million Bryce C. Graft, Secretary concourse off a new main entrance at the corner Douglas M. Nicholson, Treasurer that the new Emergency Department will cost, and of 11th Avenue South and 28th Street South. Benefis employees have already stepped up with Directors Multiple intake rooms at the front of the Barbara L. Byrne $400,000 in pledges and gifts. Richard F. Doughten department where a physician will be able to Grant W. Eve We are looking to the greater community and rapidly assess patient needs. Nora E. Gerrity, MD region to help us with this important project Dena Burnham Johnson – your support will make it possible to bring More than 30 patient rooms, all significantly Wayne E. Linnell Dean A. Nelson the project to full fruition. larger than present, including two specially outfitted Patricia T. Sletten for pediatric patients and two multi-purpose The fact is you or someone you know will G. Mike Tabacco rooms for exams and procedures. Expanded Diane M. Volk eventually need the services provided by the space will make it possible for family members Benefis Emergency Department, and you won’t Benefis Health System to be more involved in the care process. Ex-Officio want to have to wait several hours or get stuck in Forrest G. Ehlinger, CFO William McGregor, MD a hallway until a room opens up. An enclosed ambulance garage with drive- Benefis Health System Board “After touring the department, it came to light through access so ambulances no longer will have Founding Directors that it is a very crowded place,” said Mary Beth to back up more than 200 feet to unload patients J. W. Bloemendaal, MD in sometimes harsh weather conditions. James D. Eidson, MD Ewen, who is co-chairing the campaign with Chris. Gaee M. Ellis* “I think a lot of people are not aware that they Three large Trauma/Resuscitation rooms with Sandra L. Geske* are seeing 10,000 more patients each year Gregory J. Hatley direct access from the Mercy Flight helipad and Jane C. Hibbard* than when the current department was built. the ambulance garage. Paul C. Husted They are doing a good job with what they Richard E. Lauritzen, MD have, but they really need more space and A two-room behavioral health suite with a Barbara L. Moe Nancy M. O’Brien more state-of-the-art equipment.” ✦ separate bathroom and observation anteroom so M. Kathy Rice a patient facing a psychiatric crisis can be cared A video about the ED Campaign is on Shirlee J. Thiebes for in a safe, secure, calming setting. Rodney C. Thorne the Benefis Foundation website: Evie A. Ugrin benefisfoundation.org Virginia H. Wieck A two-room SANE (Sexual Assault Nurse Carter Williams* Exam) suite, with a separate bathroom and Milton O. Wordal* shower; the first room will be a safe, comfortable Frances M. Wylder area for interviews of victims of sexual or domestic *Deceased abuse and the second will be for medical exams. Benefis Health System Foundation Staff Multiple healthcare team stations for nurses Dan Hollow, President Sara Branom and medical staff with direct line of sight to all the Judy Doheny Please support the new rooms under their care. Mary Koppy Benefis Emergency Department Kelly Michel Decontamination areas adjacent to the Marilyn Parker You can make a gift using the enclosed giving envelope Sandy Ramstead ambulance garage and trauma rooms that can be or make your gift online at benefisfoundation.org. Stacy Rice completely isolated so a highly contagious patient or Amber Steers For information about opportunities such as naming a patient suffering from a chemical exposure can be room in the new department, please call the Benefis treated without forcing the closure of the entire ED. Foundation office at 406.455.5840.
2 FALL / WINTER 2016 Longtime Great Falls Neurosurgeon’s Family Gives Back With Gifts of Stock and Book Royalties
Just like with Christmas they raised four daughters while he presents under the tree, worked in private practice until 1990. charitable gifts come in all After Dr. Schemm retired, they different shapes and sizes. returned to Oregon and Janet said they went on to enjoy 22 years of Dr. George Schemm, who was a memorable adventures. celebrated neurosurgeon in Great “But we always had a foot there in Falls for nearly 20 years before Montana,” she said. “We have a cabin retiring in Oregon, and his wife, in the Rocky Mountain Front and have Janet, gave a special gift to the When you buy any of great friends up there.” Benefis Foundation shortly before Mildred Walker’s books, Dr. Schemm passed away in 2014. About a year before Dr. Schemm Janet and George Schemm, MD you are helping to provide Along with giving gifts of stock, passed away, Janet said he became ill continuing education and they started talking about making the gift to Benefis they directed the royalties of the 13 novels written by for the surgical staff at Dr. Schemm’s mother, noted author Mildred Walker and Great Falls. After talking with his other family members, Benefis Health System. Schemm, who penned a story about Montana farm they decided to direct the royalties of more than a dozen life called Winter Wheat, to support a family books written by their mother to the Benefis Foundation. Here is a list of titles endowment they created. Mildred Walker’s books were first published by Harcourt, to look for: The Dr. George and Janet Schemm Endowment Brace & Co., but by the mid-1970s many were out of Fireweed, 1934 was set up to support continuing education for care print. The University of Nebraska Press began reissuing providers (nurses and technicians) who work in the the works in 1992, and a decade later Winter Wheat Light from Arcturus, 1935 Benefis Health System Surgery Department. was chosen by the Montana Center for the Book as Dr. Norton’s Wife, 1938 the “One Book Montana” subject for reading discussions “George had talked about leaving money to throughout the state. The Brewers’ Big Horses, Benefis – he was always a Montana boy,” said 1940 Janet, who lives in Oregon City. “He always wanted Because the Benefis Foundation owns the royalties from to direct it to the surgical staff there, whom Mildred Walker’s books, anyone who buys Winter Wheat Unless the Wind Turns, 1941 he said were top-notch; Sue Warren was one or any of her other famed titles is indirectly supporting of his favorites. And he enjoyed working with continuing education for the Benefis surgical staff. Winter Wheat, 1944 neurosurgeon Dr. Dale Schaefer throughout Earnings from the Dr. George and Janet Schemm The Quarry, 1947 Dr. Schaefer's training.” Endowment are already being used to send surgical care providers to educational conferences to improve Medical Meeting, 1949 Sue Warren, Director of Nursing/Senior Services at and enhance their skills. Benefis, fondly recalls the “privilege, if not honor” of The Southwest Corner, working with Dr. Schemm, whom she describes as a “Dr. Schemm’s long hours with the surgical team 1951 at the former Montana Deaconess Medical Center highly respected neurosurgeon who The Curlew’s Cry, 1955 changed and saved lives. has led to this incredible support of continuing education for surgical nurses and techs,” said The Body of a Young Man, “I was a young nurse in the ICU,” Warren. “This is a tremendous gift which will 1960 she said. “He not only was a last well into the future as a tribute to his physician but enjoyed teaching If a Lion Could Talk, 1970 transformation of neurosurgical care.” ✦ the nurses in the ICU, where The Orange Tree, 2006 most of his patients came after 10-12 hours of surgery. He was “It’s just winter wheat to the people humble and passionate about his patient care and held nurses who raise it, only to me it means Sue Warren in high regard.” more than that. It means all the Dr. Schemm followed in the footsteps of his father, winter and all the cold and the tight who was a cardiologist and surgeon, when he went to medical school, earning his undergraduate degree at feeling of the house in winter, but Yale and then an M.D. from the University of Michigan. the rich secret feeling I have, too, He met Janet, his wife of 47 years, while working as of treasure in the ground, growing associate professor of Neurosurgery at the University of Oregon medical school. They moved to Philadelphia, there for us, waiting for the cold to where Dr. Schemm taught at the Medical College of be over to push up strong and green.” Pennsylvania, and then settled in Great Falls, where From Winter Wheat by Mildred Walker
FALL / WINTER 2016 3
Foundation Scholarship Programs Pass $1 Million Mark With Latest Awards
Benefis Health System Foundation Congratulations to the Fall 2016 and Spring 2017 Awardees has awarded 39 college students Scholarships are for nursing unless stated otherwise.
from Great Falls and the surrounding Benefis Family Scholarship Gavin Lee, Great Falls, areas with $81,250 in healthcare Jill Yeager, Choteau, Great Falls College-MSU MSU College of Nursing, Great Falls Campus scholarships for the fall 2016 and Austin Klinger, Great Falls, Healthcare Administration, Michele Van Valkenburg, Geyser, MSU Billings Great Falls College-MSU spring 2017 semesters. Marie Franko, Cascade, Sadie Ondick, Great Falls, The Foundation also provided $6,750 MSU College of Nursing, Great Falls Campus MSU College of Nursing, Great Falls Campus towards the MSU College of Nursing, Sadie Ondick, Great Falls, Rice Family Scholarship MSU College of Nursing, Great Falls Campus Alyssa Hogan, Great Falls, Master’s in Great Falls Campus Upper Division Occupational Therapy, University of Mary Bloemendaal Family Scholarship Summer Internship, which fulfills a Jodi Johnson, Bynum, Great Falls College-MSU John & Darlene Skees Memorial graduation requirement for 9 students. Nursing Scholarship Tarracea Eckenstein, Great Falls, The funds came from the Cecil & Dorothy Jane M. Buckman Husted Memorial Nursing Scholarship Master’s in Nursing Leadership and Goodbrand Nursing Scholarship. Shawn Blackman, Browning, Administration, Capella University Blackfeet Community College Jennephyr Reiche-Sterling, Sun River, With these awards, the Benefis MSU College of Nursing, Great Falls Campus Foundation has awarded more than Darcy Dengel Mercy Flight Scholarship Kelsie Kubick, Great Falls, Jaimee Gregoire, Great Falls, Master’s in $1 million in healthcare scholarships MSU College of Nursing, Great Falls Campus Nursing Administration, Benedictine University since the Healthcare Scholarship Scott Schandelson, Great Falls, Master’s in Bonnie Gardner Memorial Nursing Scholarship Program began in 1998. Nursing Leadership and Administration, Jessica Bray, Great Falls, Walden University Capella University , Great Falls, “Over the years, our donors have Madison Wall Carroll College Patricia Vielle, Sand Coulee, Master’s in Nursing helped more than 500 students reach Maria Bernhardt, Billings, Leadership, Capella University MSU College of Nursing, Billings Campus their career dreams,” said Benefis Triston Fitzgerald, Babb, Foundation President Dan Hollow. Cecil & Dorothy Goodbrand Nursing Scholarship Blackfeet Community College , Great Falls, Cori Enseleit Spencer Mitchell, Great Falls, “Through giving to this program, our MSU College of Nursing, Great Falls Campus MSU College of Nursing, Great Falls Campus donors also have helped staff Marie Franko, Cascade, MSU College of Nursing, Benefis Health System and other Great Falls Campus Ed & Ethel Ugrin Memorial Scholarship Heather Smith, Great Falls, hospitals and clinics in our region Madison Wall, Great Falls, Carroll College Nurse Practitioner, Walden University with quality healthcare professionals, Heidi Winslow, Great Falls, Deborah A. Wilson Memorial Nursing Scholarship several of whom were able to St. John’s College of Nursing Michelle Curtis, VAUGHN, MSU College of Nursing, Great Falls Campus advance their degrees and become Evan Thompson, Great Falls, MSU College of Nursing, Great Falls Campus family nurse practitioners and Frances M. Wylder Scholarship Julie Hickethier Nursing Scholarship Bobi Gallineaux, Browning, physician’s assistants thanks to Brooklynn Merja, Fort Shaw, Carroll College Blackfeet Community College these scholarships.” Mercy Flight Scholarship Thomas Cole, Great Falls, Surgical Technician, Evan Thompson, Great Falls, Great Falls College-MSU The Healthcare Scholarship Program MSU College of Nursing, Great Falls Campus Kyra Mad Plume, Browning, offers a general Medical Education Medical Education Scholarship Blackfeet Community College Scholarship, more than a dozen Named Katy Merrick, Great Falls, Great Falls College-MSU Crystal St. Goddard, Browning, Scholarships funded by generous donors Justin Stokes, Conrad, Great Falls College-MSU Blackfeet Community College
for years, and several other scholarships Caleb Taylor, Great Falls, Surgical Technician, Michael White, Great Falls, Great Falls College-MSU that all are directed toward students Great Falls College-MSU Gavin Lee, Great Falls, MSU College of Nursing, Great Falls Campus pursuing degrees or certifications in Danielle Tierney, Great Falls, Certified Surgical Assistant, ACE Surgical Assisting healthcare. All of the scholarships are Margaret Wynn Memorial Nursing Scholarship Patricia Aimsback, Heart Butte, Kelsie Kubick, Great Falls, listed online at benefisfoundation.org. Blackfeet Community College MSU College of Nursing, Great Falls Campus The application deadline is June 1 each year. Rebecca Rutherford, Browning, Jennifer Laisnez, Choteau, Great Falls College-MSU Blackfeet Community College Shelby Senger, Great Falls, MSU College of Nursing, Great Falls Campus
“The John and Darlene Skees Memorial Nursing Scholarship will lessen the burden of paying tuition while obtaining my master’s degree and raising two babies. Thank you for your continued support of so many students who are furthering their education in hopes to give back to the community through the nursing profession.” Jaimee Gregoire, Great Falls
4 FALL / WINTER 2016
“This scholarship will help me complete my master’s degree and allow me to serve my community at a higher level than I can now. I am thankful to the Bonnie Gardner family for setting up this scholarship through the Benefis Foundation. This gift will have a lasting impact on the lives of nurses, the facility and the patients who will be served.” Jessica Bray, Great Falls “It is a wonderful feeling to have support like this. This scholarship makes me feel even more dedicated and inspired to help patients through my clinicals in school and in my future job as an RN.” Cori Enseleit, Great Falls
“This money will help tremendously. I am a single father, and I’m on a fixed income “With our aging population and until graduation. This shortage of nurses, I feel this scholarship will give scholarship helps open the door my family the financial for people who may not have been boost that we need.” able to enter the nursing field. This especially applies to someone like me Thomas Cole, as I have small children to take care Great Falls of while making a career change.” Michael White, Great Falls
“Thank you for your generosity to “This scholarship will make help me pay my tuition as I continue a big difference in my life nursing school. This award will by taking away some of the make a difference in the lives of stress that comes with trying patients because they will have to find ways to pay for college. nurses with compassion, skills and This award will help me knowledge to provide quality care.” become a surgical tech and Patricia Aimsback, Heart Butte make a positive difference in the lives of our patients.” Caleb Taylor, Great Falls
“I am grateful for this generous scholarship, which will make going back You Can Help Make Dreams Come True to school that much easier for myself and my family. I will be able to work as To support the Healthcare Scholarship Program, you may use a registered nurse and contribute to the the enclosed giving envelope to make a gift. To learn more need for RNs here in Choteau at about creating a named scholarship endowment to carry on Benefis Teton Medical Center.” your family’s legacy, please call 406.455.5840. Jill Yeager, Choteau
FALL / WINTER 2016 5 Young Professionals Enjoy Benefis Foundation “Lunch & Learn” Sessions
Early this year, Benefis Foundation “I wasn’t really sure what to expect,” introduced a new program aimed at said Alyse Considine, a junior account educating young professionals on manager and publicity coordinator for the breadth of services offered at The Wendt Agency. “There was more exposure to what Benefis offers for Benefis Health System. Come learning opportunities compared to December, the group will have met four networking opportunities.” times and heard presentations on topics ranging from sports specific training to Each presentation has highlighted emergency services. They even took a both the scope of Benefis’ services and the vital role philanthropy plays in Above: Adam Elliott, a Medical Physicist at Benefis guided tour of the beautiful Benefis Sletten Cancer Institute, leads the group on a guided Sletten Cancer Institute and keeping our community healthy. The tour of the Radiation Oncology wing. The area combines listened to the institute’s impact of our donors’ generosity is state-of-the-art technologies like the linear accelerator, talented professionals visible in every facet of the hospital. with soothing surroundings to keep patients at ease. explain the many services “The tour of the cancer center Bottom left: Supervisor Dan Groux presents on the they offer to the region. many services offered for both students and adults was a very powerful experience; through RESULTS Sports Specific Training and the “I wanted to get to I took a lot away from that Benefis Orthopedic Center. know and work with session,” said Audra Bergman, who professionals within owns and operates Groundworks Farm our community,” said in Fort Shaw. “The tour paid close IRA Charitable Rollover Marilyn Parker Marilyn Parker, Director of attention to both the innovative Made Permanent Planned Giving and Finance at Benefis technology and the compassion and care available to patients facing some of their For those who are 70½ or older, Foundation. “We recognize that these it is once again possible to make professionals will be leaders in our hardest days. tax-favored charitable gifts from community for years to come. I am “We don’t usually get to interact with so energized by the talent, humility, those who provide care until we or a traditional and Roth IRA accounts. and generosity I see in them.” loved one has a health crisis,” Parker Congress has passed legislation Marilyn organized the Lunch and Learn said. “We feel fortunate to be able to making this provision permanent for sessions to help educate young introduce members of our future years. A total of up to $100,000 professionals on the health system’s many community to these professionals.” can be transferred directly from services, particularly those they have not yet Next year’s young professionals will be traditional or Roth IRAs to one or experienced firsthand. The group included selected and invited by input from this year’s more qualified charities, such as professionals from a variety of fields, outgoing group. And all who have gone Benefis Health System Foundation, including attorneys, dentists, CPAs and through the series will be welcomed back for free from federal income tax each business owners, making the audience as biannual presentations that will continue to year. There may also be state income tax varied as the subject matter. explore the services Benefis offers. ✦ savings. Amounts given in this way count toward required IRA minimum withdrawal amounts for the year of the gift. To make such gifts, it is important to not withdraw funds prior to a gift, but have the gift amount distributed directly from an IRA to one or more qualified charities. For those with check writing privileges on their accounts, this may be the most efficient way to make gifts directly from an IRA. Check with us, your IRA administrator or your tax advisor for more information. For more tax-advantaged giving ideas, information about the Montana Endowment Tax Credit, and gifts that can provide an income stream for you and your family, call Marilyn Parker at 406.455.5836. ✦
6 FALL / WINTER 2016 Buzz Your Fuzz Raises $38,000 to Help Cancer Patients
Left: Jordan Husted gets "buzzed" by Morgan Knudson and Charlie Murphy. Above: Joe Eve, Tom Mathews, Dan Konen, Josh Eve, Jordan Husted, Quay Butler, Zane Drishinski, Dan Hollow, Grant Eve, and Cody Lindabury.
The event is organized by a dedicated “As an increased number of people group of people who each year reach out to are covered by high deductible
family, friends and numerous businesses for health insurance plans, requiring The 6th annual Buzz Your Fuzz event, held support. They do this in memory of former larger out of pocket payments, at the Hollis Hi Ho on August 27, was Great Falls and Whitefish resident Michael philanthropy like this is more critical another wonderful success thanks to the Eve, who lost his fight with renal cell than ever. Whether we are helping nearly 20 people who collected pledges, the carcinoma in 2009 at the age of 49, in an patients with transportation, wigs, amazing live and silent auctions that effort to help the many people in our prosthetics, nutrition, genetic featured everything from ski resort getaways community and region who battle cancer counseling or other critical cancer to a guided hunt in South Africa, and the each year. generosity of the many people who gave to services, support from this event will support the cause. “Cancer treatment services at the Benefis make a huge difference,” he added. Sletten Cancer Institute bring hope to This year’s event raised more than cancer patients and families throughout Thanks to all of the caring organizers and everyone who supported this year’s Buzz $45,500, with about $38,000 going Montana,” said Joe Lo Duca, Chief Your Fuzz. Your generosity will help make Administrative Officer of Benefis Cancer to the Sletten Cancer Institute and the cancer journey a little better and easier and Heart & Vascular. about $8,000 to the Fred Hutchinson for many of our patients and their families. ✦ Cancer Research Center in Seattle.
Men and Machines Car Show Success Brings Support for Cancer Patients The 5th Annual Men & Machines Car Show, held September 10 at the Best of Show: 1931 Model A Sedan Benefis Sletten Cancer Institute, was a record-breaking success. The event raised about $8,600 for Sletten’s Circle of Hope Program, which helps cancer patients by providing support services and helping with non-medical expenses such as housing and travel for their treatment. The event focused on men’s health awareness and included a health “Pit Stop” with guidelines for health maintenance and regular check-ups. Activities also included the kiddie corner, delicious food vendors, and, of course, the car and bike show with more than 150 registered cars and motorcycles. Each year a special group of Benefis employees and volunteers organize this event and reach out to the community, friends and numerous businesses for support. A special thanks to all of them as well as everyone who bought raffle tickets and attended the show. ✦
FALL / WINTER 2016 7 f Frien le o ds irc C r u Richard and Bridget Brennan, MD O Medical Director’s Family Invests in Community Through Generous Pledge to Emergency Services
Richard and Dr. Bridget Brennan continue to be in awe that they can stand on the back deck of their house just south of Great Falls and see the Highwood Mountains in one direction and the Rocky Mountain Front in the other direction. The Brennans moved to Great Falls from Hannah, Richard, Bridget, Noah and Rachel Brennan love hiking in Glacier National Park. South Carolina after falling in love with Montana during summer vacations where Along with being invested in the area, the “It’s a family choice and a big decision,” they took their three children to explore Brennans are invested in Benefis – said Dr. Brennan. “So we sat down and Yellowstone Park, Glacier Park and other specifically the Emergency Services told them our options and got their parts of the Treasure State. Department that Dr. Brennan has overseen input. They liked the idea of giving a “We thought this will be the place to retire,” as Medical Director for the past two years. gift to name the helipad.” said Dr. Brennan, Medical Director of Benefis “The potential for the Emergency Department “The irony is I won’t fly; I’m a huge chicken,” Emergency Services. “Then we thought, is so huge,” she said. “And its impact on the she added. “But I’ve had involvement with why wait?” region is so huge.” flight crews throughout my career, and it’s such a huge part of what we do.” When Dr. Brennan received a recruiting call When the Benefis Foundation launched a from Benefis Health System, they decided capital campaign to raise money to help Dr. Brennan has been involved in the design to come have a look at Great Falls. Richard support the Health System’s project to build of the new department and looks forward to said although it was covered in a blanket of a new Emergency Department, Richard and having the extra space and specialty rooms snow and looked rather flat the day they Dr. Brennan sat down with their children so they’ll be able to take care of patients flew in for a visit, they couldn’t be happier Rachel, Noah and Hannah to discuss adequately. about living in such a beautiful area. giving a gift. Continued on page 9
Through the Brennan family’s gift to support the Benefis Emergency Department project, the Mercy Flight helipad will bear their family’s name. There are several other naming opportunities available for the new Emergency Department, such as the Care Stations, the Trauma Rooms, the SANE Room, the Bereavement Room, and many patient rooms. Donors have the option of making gifts over a three-year time period, which may help them make the best use of their tax benefits, including the Montana Endowment Tax Credit. To learn more about these naming opportunities or making a gift to support the Emergency Department, please call the Benefis Foundation office at 406.455.5840.
8 FALL / WINTER 2016 Great Falls Tough Enough to Wear Pink x $ “The department is outdated and the rooms Raises 14,559 in Support of Cancer Patients are tiny,” she said. “We currently don’t have A huge thanks to the many caring people who the capacity to take care of people the way Everyone thinks Breast Health helped organize the events, sponsored the we need to and want to. We’ve got a family Awareness is only during October, but events, gave donations, bought raffle tickets here, too, and I want them to be taken care the local Big Sky Pro-Rodeo Roundup or gave donations in other ways. You are of if they need to be taken care of.” was busy raising money during the making cancer treatment possible for many “The Emergency Department is really the Montana State Fair. people who may not have the means to get to front door to the hospital for many This summer’s Great Falls Tough Enough to their appointments without this support. ✦ people,” added Richard. “The impression Wear Pink events raised more than $14,500, the Emergency Department gives of the which will be used to buy fuel/gas cards to hospital is the lasting impression many help cancer patients and their families get to people will have. People know they get and from cancer treatments. good care there. When they get the new department up and running, it’s going to The money was raised through a pint night at be great for the future of Benefis.” the Mighty Mo Brewing Company on July 25, the Cowgirl U ladies rodeo clinic at the Big Dr. Brennan said Benefis has been very Sky ProRodeo on August 5, the 50/50 held successful with the recruiting of superbly during the rodeo, the “50 Shades of Pink” trained physicians, noting there are 10 purses raffle, and the raffle of the doctors and three family nurse practitioners champagne-pink sapphire ring that was in the department. generously donated by Fox Fine Jewelers “We have a great core group of very smart and Hempl’s Bakery. doctors,” she said. “They have families, too, Tough Enough to Wear Pink Committee and are very invested in this community.” member Lacey Gallagher said there is a Along with supporting the Emergency great need for help with the cost of driving Department, the Brennans give to support to the various types of treatment and Benefis Peace Hospice, where Richard appointments a patient may have at works with the bereavement program and Benefis Sletten Cancer Institute. For those as a registry chaplain. who live in Northcentral Montana, the distance is great and some patients travel daily for Three-year breast cancer Richard, who was ordained as a Catholic survivor Missy Greenwood of Great Falls priest before he left the priesthood and care. Local cancer patients will also receive attended Cowgirl U with her daughter and became a family man, said he has never help from the funds raised too. stepdaughter. She said she loved the seen a Spiritual Care Program like the one She also said that Holiday Stationstores opportunity to meet so many women who have gone through a similar experience. at Benefis. company, where the cards were purchased, “The area of pastoral care is remarkable,” kindly donated $100 for every $1,000 spent “It was good to get together, he said. “There is a core group of on gas cards. compare notes, see where volunteers who are committed in a way they are at in their journey. I’ve never seen.” I have not had that The Brennans commitment to giving also opportunity before, and I stems from when their youngest daughter, think it’s important to know Hannah, was diagnosed with leukemia at you’re not alone in it.” age 3. Thankfully, Hannah’s treatment was –– Missy Greenwood successful. She is now thriving as a sophomore in high school as are their other two children, Noah, who is a senior, and Rachel, who is attending Great Falls College-MSU. “We had to do more with less at times, and there were so many people who were kind to us,” said Richard. “And it’s how we were raised. Giving is just second nature; it’s just part of who we are.” “Plus, we moved across the country for this job,” added Dr. Brennan. “We are invested in this.” ✦
FALL / WINTER 2016 9
Foundation Donors Create Lasting Legacies
Benefis Health System Foundation is thankful to the many caring donors who support our mission of improving and enhancing healthcare services in Great Falls and Northcentral Montana. You are making a world of difference for so many people. Thank you for your generosity. Donors listed gave gifts June 1 through September 30.
Angel Fund & 221 Children’s Fund & Endowments Student Builds Train Set for Benefis Pediatrics Rebecca J. Brown Thanks to Griff Malloy for the fun model train set he donated to Benefis Mary Lou Delaire Pediatrics for patients, families and visitors to enjoy. Veronica R. Erlenbush Charles W. Freeman Griff, who attends California Polytechnic State University – San Luis Obispo, Derald & Alice Guilbert designed and built the 4-by-8-foot train set as his senior English project at C.M. Candace R. Roberts Russell High School and completed it just before he graduated in 2014. In Memory of John and Joy Meyer donated the base for the train set, and Rory Klaue, who Kim N. Bunton works in Benefis Facilities, built the display case for it. Russ & Terry Hanson The train set was installed on the 6th floor, just outside of the Benefis Pediatrics Rita C. Dees Russ & Terry Hanson wing, at Benefis East Campus. Jerry L. Donoven “My main goal was to provide Russ & Terry Hanson entertainment for kids who are here Denise E. Gemar and for family members who need a William & Mary Hurley distraction for their kids for a bit,” Timothy M. Hauge Russ & Terry Hanson Griff said. “Plus, trains are cool. James T. Kessler I really enjoy them.” Rich & Donna Dengel Gerald L. LePard Thank you, Griff, for bringing a little Danny & Nicki LePard bit of fun to make the hospital visit David D. Madson better for our pediatric patients Danny & Nicki LePard and their families. Robert C. Mathis Danny & Nicki LePard Children’s Bereavement Program / Camp Francis Funds & Endowments Demorise & Frances Allen Fred & Vicky Anderson Big Sky Therapeutic Services John R. Blanchet Carrie A. Boysun Adam & Eleanor Carroll Sandra Clapshaw Tim & Billiette Coolidge In Memory of Kevin Heppner Shelly K. Mahoney Linda D. Graft William & Barbara Cowan Paul & Anita Heppner Delmer & Beverly Mahoney Nora Seekins Frederick J. Dahlman LeeRoy R. Anderson John & Nancy Dutchak Jeanne M. Anderson William H. Hodges Parker G. Mead J. Wade Hodges George & Mary Darragh Gift of Life Housing Great Falls Baseball Club Marvin E. Aune Centers Fund Guy Tabacco Construction James & Frances Combs Kelly A. Johnson Sharon Shallue & Endowment Una M. Koontz Darcy L. Dengel Paul C. Husted Darlene Kravik Laila M. Lindberg Rich & Donna Dengel Lance A. Koke Gerald L. Smith Armond & Joan Cheek Kelsey A. Lindquist Alta M. Pallett Richard & Carol Winchell Rich & Donna Dengel Rita Christoferson Theodore & Carol Edmister Don & Shirley McDonald J. L. & Karen Story Sandra L. Kravik Judith L. Ericksen Fred & Karla Grundmann Barbara L. Moe Tanya D. Vannice Kirschman Darlene Kravik Lane & Sheryl Freiboth Ben & Alice Martin Harlan & Patricia Orham Cleo Doyle Sara M. Knigge Andrew LaRance Our Savior’s Lutheran Church Vincent & Joanne Purpura Richard & Carol Winchell Edward Tade, Jr Dorothy A. Davis Thomas & Jacqueline Rose Jacqueline A. Strandell Tom & Lisa Brieske Connie J. Swan - Minton M. Flanagan-Franklin Kirstin M. Liebelt Dorothy A. Sargent Peaks to Prairie Dirk & Tamra Johnson Dr. James & Jeanne Liebelt Dorothy M. Wallace Seville Colony Mary Pat Smith Lyall & Kathy Tesch Derrick C. Franklin Michael Liebelt Gloria Sundquist Shirlee J. Thiebes Dirk & Tamra Johnson Dr. James & Jeanne Liebelt Bryan & Kathleen Van Heel In Honor of Sandra A. Watkins Michael D. Haney Donald J. Mahoney Rebecca Wurz Camp Francis Volunteers Donald & Donna Petersen Delmer & Beverly Mahoney Zeller Family Foundation Kathy Van Tighem
10 FALL / WINTER 2016
Your Gifts Make a Real Difference
In Memory of Michael D. Haney Peace Hospice & Clarence A. Carlson Jr. Melvin & Ruby Willey Linda Bryson Mary Sullivan Larson Peace Hospice Arnold & Dolores Gettel Helen Goodman Kennard & Diana Martin Edith M. Hinebauch Residential Funds & Patricia K. Cetto Wayne & Dorothy Roseth Patricia K. Cetto Emily J. Adams Endowments Patty H. Myers Willis Haagenson Eugene & Myrna Cady Irene M. Hodgskiss Demorise & Frances Allen Harold & Judith Spilde Michele L. Abney James Collins Ross & Lorran Depner Anonymous Donor Theresia Clark Michael D. Haney Kenneth & Avis Berkram Henry & Bonnie Thies Archie C. Bishop Dr. Donald & Kay Jelinek Kenwood & Diane Nordquist Karen A. Long Maggie C. Doll William M. Lowden Angela M. Bruskotter Richard Hanson Pam Johnson Mary Ellen Mewes Mark & Elizabeth Bruskotter William J. Cooper William & Janice Ellison James Carter Theodore & Darlene Funyak Lt. Col. Donald D. Higgins Helen E. Lower Ardelle G. Haverlandt Armond & Joan Cheek Carra A. Higgins Emily J. Adams Marian Cromwell Phyllis J. Lowe Fraternal Order of Eagles Vernon E. Ludtke K & K Trucking Gordon W. Jorgenson Great Falls Auxiliary #14 Jean L. Hill Emily J. Adams Kurt & Laurie Kessner Stephen & Nancy Nelson Ann M. Henry Rodger Gilmor & Aloysius J. Diekhans Ruth Kloppel Emma Mahoney Rosalie M. Kiernan Diane Knutson-Gilmor Dick & Dorothy Kuntz Wallace Trucking Sandra Clapshaw Beverly J. Larson Estate Janice I. Nerem Patty H. Myers Kurt Wiggers & John R. Lee Michael R. Mays Kelsey A. Lindquist Mike Diekhans Ronda Carpenter-Wiggers Lorraine Hughes Ligaya P. Mays Julia L. Neckstad Gloria A. Jacoby-Moore Craig & Pamela Lee Anna Lou Meland Phillip & Karen Rowell George E. Holzheimer Heather K. Spurzem Patty H. Myers Lester & D. Vonnie Adkins Mark A. Leighton Ethel E. Parker Dolores Sramek David A. Doran Bonnie DeNoma Eugene & Myrna Cady Homer L. Potts Zeller Family Foundation Inez F. Bray Daniel & Cheryl Devine Frank & Jeanne Blaney Monte W. Mavencamp Gregory Hanson & Jill Storbakken Family & Friends Virginia A. Doerschlag Monte W. Mavencamp Estate In Memory of William & Connie Morris Charley & Jacalyn Frey Daniel & Brigitte Francis Gary L. Miller Jeri A. O’Neil Louise Haaby & Karen Dyal Joyce E. Newman Dolores M. Albrecht Donald & Bonnie Gallus Brad & Vicki Robinson Arthur & Lynn Hebert Harry Z. Roch, DDS Kenneth W. Albrecht Gerald & Betty Lou Stender Jill B. Storbakken Colleen Holzheimer Shirley Rothwell & Family Glen E. Baker Gail Holzheimer Jan D. Nelson Theodore & Betty Snow Lillian Baker Alma M. Ecklund M. Delores Mills Eugene & Myrna Cady Roy & Diane Volk Roy & Paula Baumann Andrew W. Aline Gary & Marilyn Parker Margaret O. O’Neil Charlene Wolfe Lawrence & Ann Boettcher Charles & Joan Gestring Albert E. Reeves Shirley M. Kralich Everett & Karla Breding Pauline Hovland Beverly J. Steen Susan K. Tonne Conrad High School Staff Gloria A. Jacoby-Moore Sherwin E. Palmer Emily J. Adams Fred & Beverly Walker Ross & Lorran Depner Junkermier, Clark, Kenneth & Avis Berkram Lawrence K. Steen Peter & Judy Ellis Campanella, Stevens Edith James Marie K. Ries Emily J. Adams James & Sandra McKenna Helen E. Sandvig Sylvia M. Tuss Family & Friends Tom Swartz Dennis & Ruth Fladstol Harold & Judith Spilde Norma G. Johnson Sylvester A. Ries Brent & Connie Bass Gerald Brunner Farm Gary & Sharon Winchell Frank & Lynn Bedosky Sylvia M. Tuss Dorothy M. Wallace Terry & Cindy Greyn Joseph A. Feldman Lee D. Clark Jr. Lillian M. Rigg Robert & Bonnie Pancich Phyllis E. Hammermeister Albert E. Reeves Gary L. Davis Josephine C. Blue Joseph R. Zigan Russell & Janice Kastner Richard J. Ferderer Raymond & Mary Ann Freeman Harvey E. Weikum Roberta Spurzem Hugh V. Larson Wanda Anderson Clifford A. Johnson Wallace Trucking Carey A. Monahan Family & Friends Dale & Vickie Johnson In Honor of Ernestine Olson Jerry Ferderer Ed & JoAnne Johnson Greatest Need Fund Alexa J. Bauch Judy J. Russell Ron & Donna Ferderer Mark & Cheryl Johnson & Endowment Judith A. Newman Kirk & Mary Sauer Barbara S. Nelson Evan & Twyla Jones Dr. John & Marianne Taylor Joseph E. Reardon Stephen & Cindy Keaster Anonymous Sara M. Branom Tara Thielman Donald L. Smith Joe & Linda Konesky James & Carol Auth Teddy M. Branom Allan & Diane Underdal Dwane & Cathy Sutphin Donna B. Kropp Philip H. Bailey Joel R. Demko JoAnn Vandenacre R. Jean Leck Benjamin M. Flanagan Norris A. Bjork NorthWestern Energy William & Tamara VandenBos Maryellen Lesmeister Bill & Sandra Brown Jeanne M. Evans Johnson Charlie Hibl Janette K. VanLuchene Richard Marxer & Joseph Collins & Lisa Jenkins NorthWestern Energy Linda Johnson-Marxer Lola R. Barnard Dawn Clutter-Collins Carl R. Kellington Anthony & Elena Mosmiller Lori F. Jones Patty H. Myers Family & Friends Kathy J. Mangold Lois J. Nelson Donald & Donna Brinkerhoff Thomas J. Bauer Clarice Flanagan Douglas & Paige Nicholson Scott & Sally Richardson Garri J. Mauch Patricia A. Bauer Kathleen K. Flanagan Errol & Stacy Rice Shirley Rothwell Judith A. Newman Kenneth & Linda Larson Tina St. Marks Louise T. Bell Neill & Patti Sweeney Brent & Kelly Michel Todd Willman Mike Nicola Mark & Patty Kohoutek Harry & Vicki Throckmorton Patty H. Myers NorthWestern Energy Dixie Boland Connie M. Tice Melton B. Pate In Memory of Stefan Reynolds Brian & Lisa Maki Steve & Tera Vielleux Scheels Sports Kathleen F. Bruckbauer William & Rose Ferderer Linda Winchell & Family Florence M. Boysun Earl D. Sheldon Harlan & Patricia Orham Edward & Aimee Wood Stacy M. Rice Randal & Susan Boysun Brad & Barb Watson Patricia K. Cetto Patrick W. Rice Gary & Carol Young Josephine M. Brunner Herbert J. Frick Nobby & Betty Johnson Leroy Juneau Sam Surbrugg The Family of Josephine Brunner Gary & Ritamarie Campbell Roche & Teri Juneau JoAnn Clark NorthWestern Energy Louis Bryant Kathy J. Nelson Bob & Karen Baldwin Jamey Wheeler Mary E. Bryant Warren & Susan Wenz Cathy E. Kennedy Roche & Teri Juneau James A. Cummings NorthWestern Energy Aida B. Buer Denise E. Gemar Gail & Marilyn Cramer Albert E. Reeves Audy & Anne Baack Maggie C. Doll Wyllie Caldwell Rena Coghill Continued on page 12 Gerald & Laura Kinsella Harold R. Webb John & Mary Heydon
FALL / WINTER 2016 11 Your Gifts Make a Real Difference
Greatest Need Fund Bette J. Larson Walter W. Lins Erlis Madsen Jim Medved & Endowment Betty J. Baron Patricia A. Brennan Eric & Pamela Chigbrow James & Sandra McKenna Alta M. Buford-Cox The Fanning Family Bill & Denise Gianoulias In Memory of Anna Lou Meland Louise M. Haaby Richard & Mary Ann Lucas Gloria A. Jacoby-Moore Friends of Deacon Ridge Continued Sandra Jackman Jeff & Millie Platisha Elroy Madsen & Family William & Colleen Green Mary P. Larson Helen M. Shanahan Patty H. Myers Anna Lou Meland’s Family Leroy W. Larson Shirley J. Stephens John & Carol Oja Marguerite M. Konecny Benjamin A. Miller Patty H. Myers Charles & Ethel Sutej Cynthia S. Smith Diane J. Blevins Dawn Allee Wanda A. Ebel Janice I. Nerem James & Debra Thoroughman Mark & Colleen Weigel Gary L. Miller Jodi Gutzwiler Ronald L. Levandowski Eunice Lott Roberta J. Marcussen Demorise & Frances Allen Charlene A. Kuglin Brent & Kelly Michel Dr. Larry & Loretta Obie Daniel & Rhonda Works Eleta E. Millet Albert E. Reeves Nancy V. Zbinden William M. Lowden Eleanor F. Mares Maxima S. Cox Shirley E. Lewis Louise M. Haaby Raymond D. Delger Connie R. Kunesh Judi Nelson Marjorie F. Nerison Ladd & Betty Henderson Shie McCabe Richard & Elaine Walters Jeffrey & Lydia Knowles Stu & Janie Nicholson Roger & Cheri Warila John T. Mitchell Paul D. McWhirter Doris B. Mudd Bradley & Barbara Watson Generosity Demorise & Frances Allen
Planned Giving = Smart Giving What Your Math Teacher Didn’t Tell You Did you know there is a simple equation You can take the example and multiply your gift by any number and your benefits increase proportionally. For example, a $15,000 gift has a net cost of $6,080. that can: As you can see, it pays to do the math. Best of all, the math is no problem increase (+) your gift’s benefit to charity, because Benefis Health System Foundation has planned giving experts who increase (+) your tax benefits, plus can do all of the necessary calculations for you free of charge. decrease (–) your out-of-pocket cost? The Montana Endowment Tax Credit makes all the difference in this equation. It can only be received by making a planned gift, such as a DPGA, to a permanent endowment fund. You and your math teacher may be shocked to learn this is true, but giving through a Deferred A gift through a DPGA is a simple and easy way to leverage your charitable Payment Gift Annuity, or DPGA, is the solution! gift for the best benefit for you and the people who are helped through the Benefis Foundation. Planned giving really does equal smart giving, and some simple math proves it. Designating your gift Because actual numbers vary with an individual's tax bracket and age, for one of our many endowment funds is the “x” please call Marilyn Parker at 406.455.5840. She would be happy to help factor in the scribbled equation below: with your homework! ✦
CHARITABLE GIFT COMPARISON
Not for endowment for endowment witH A DPGA* ) < $ Gift $ Gift *Deferred Payment 1,5 0 0 1,5 0 0 Gift Annuity $ Federal Income $ Federal Income - 375 Tax Deduction - 343 Tax Deduction $ Montana Income $ Montana
- 103 Tax Deduction - 549 ENDOWMENT TAX CREDIT ------<
$1, 022< —— $ 608* —— Which gift Makes? more sense NET “COST” OF GifT
12 FALL / WINTER 2016
Your Gifts Create Lasting Legacies
James O. Omlie Kattie Meyer Lorraine J. Skaalure Frank & Laurie Saksa Laura M. Osterman Jimmy & Susan Sargent Eagle Beverage Ryan & Leslie Seltzer Loaf ’N Jug St. James Care Management Team 5 Reasons Why You Should Join the Hartwig Moeller & John & Diane Stenson Janice Moeller-Briggs Max & Jill Van Heel Ralph E. Olson Vemco Inc Caring Hearts Monthly Giving Club Steve & Toni Tabaracci Mike & Joan Walsh Peter & Jo Ann Thornburg Cecil & Bonnie Warren ❤ Because you want to make a difference for people and Gary & Sharon Winchell Patrick Parce families in Great Falls and the surrounding region. Lynn M. Williamson Ronald W. Swensson Patty H. Myers ❤ Betty L. Pawlowski Your gift will automatically transfer from your bank account or credit card John & Anna Bold Gale W. Thielman each month to support your designated fund or program. Mary A. Bold Roche & Teri Juneau Lori S. Lafferty Richard Urango ❤ Your monthly gifts are 100 percent tax dedtuctible. Eva McDunn Parker Farms ❤ Monthly giving provides consistent support, making funds continuously Lyle & Lenora Pawlowski Peter & Jo Ann Thornburg Bruce & Melinda Pester Anne F. Walker available to help people. Florence Tiede Robert N. Van Vleet Sr. ❤ Through giving monthly, you can maximize your gift and possibly even Pamela Tiede Brian & Paula Guisti Paul & Lola Twedt Lottie Hufford take advantage of tax credits. Wendell Peck The Children of Albert E. Reeves Robert & Katherine Van Vleet The main reason Benefis Foundation donors join Rodney L. Phillips Robert Wagner the Caring Hearts Club is because they want to Kate E. Morris Terry & Lynn Williamson help, and this is an easy way to do it. Harold Poulsen Robert H. Wall Anderson Family Pharmacy Maxima S. Cox Join this special club now and make a wonderful Irene S. Brown Larry D. Walter difference in 2017. ✦ Contract Flooring Carpet One Michael T. Heine Mariana Cornett Roy R. Wurst Please call Kelly Michel, Benefis Foundation’s Dennis’ Signs & Falls Sign Service Robert & Donna Bott & Family Director of Annual Giving, at 406.455.5842 Family & Friends Richard A. Brightly Forde Nursery & Landscaping to sign up or find out more. Erik, Eileen & Anna Carlson Darleena F. Gifford Kristina A. Carlson Orlandi Derald & Ila Jesme Joseph & Jane Concato Loucks & Glassley Glen E. Baker Donna L. Karns Buzz Your Fuzz Joseph & Ingrid Enright Robert & Deloris Mau Lillian Baker Janice L. Wolter Mike & Rebecca Agamenoni Howard & Linda Heil Connie H. McDonald Gary & Angela Brown Thomas & Cindy Agamenoni Albert & Dorothy Helm Edward S. McDunn Jeff & Millie Platisha J. Tyler & Vanessa Bucklin Terry & Tracy Aline Oberg & Lindquist Corp. Ralph E. Olson Carmen Poulsen Ivan & Mabel DeVries Amigo Lounge-Taco Treat Cheryl L. Race Doris S. McDunn Sheila Rice Peggy A. Devries Adam & Mo Anderson Edmund & Diane Segarra Ralph E. Olson Stephen J. Spencer DDS Family & Friends David P. Anderson UA Local 855 Gasfitters Bette J. Smith Welch TC Glass Distributors Dean & Eleanor Heydon Lonnie & Shannon Anderson Judith M. Volpe Anonymous Katrina Wilson Martin Jerry & Mary Johns Mary Anderson Nigel & Marie Weiss Tom Swartz Teresa Salzillo Charles & Rhonda King Dr. Steven & Cathy Ayres Robert & Sandra Brown Nicholas Padulo & Mary Vincenti Kevin & Christy Kovatch Bernal & M. Kay Eve Bernal Sletten Cancer Institute Robert & Tomi Jo Orcutt Brett L. Gustafson Kaci Biederstedt Gene E. Sanders Funds & Endowments Kathleen J. Courtney Ronald A. Holm Boes Eye Care Frances M. Feller Raymond & Sandra Huston Brett Keaster, Inc. Gordon Stach Bella Enterprises Gene & Bonnie Knight D. Merchant Inc. Maureen O. Lauden Eric Brown & Janet Eve Brown Milton P. Steichen Paul D. Daines Pam J. Daul - Team Licious Dart Team Chris & Amanda Meyer J. Carl & Yvonne Bruesch Gloria A. Jacoby-Moore Daines Family Fairfield Public Schools Montana SMACNA Brittany A. Carnahan Marlys K. Stewart William D. Epperson Morrison-Maierle, Inc Casey & Brittany Carnahan Jerry Ferderer Art & Sandy Matteucci Caroline G. Gillispie Grand Chapter of Montana Patrick & Shannon Patterson Susan Carnahan Leslie M. Turner Order of the Eastern Star Richard J. Ferderer Philip & Carla Pfeifle Chinook Windows Tom Swartz James B. Lyons Estate Family & Friends Dale & Dianne Pohle Kevin Clark Toni R. Brunner Merchant Properties Gerald & Catherine Kuntz Lenora E. Swartz Lawrence Cock & Stacie Foster Gail J. Carter Messiah Lutheran Women’s Terry & Janet Lahren TC Glass Distributors D.A. Davidson Bill Clark & Frances Galvin Missionary League Pamela J. Fox-James Roman Wegscheid Bryan & Sandy Daul David & Patti Gettel Order of Eastern Star HCR Kennard & Diana Martin Arlene M. Kato Davis, Hatley, Haffeman & Tighe Henry Howard Gurnsey Chapter 71 Doris J. Harris Paula J. DeLaney John & Sylvia Halko David & Dodie Sekora Anonymous In Honor of Margaret E. Doheny Michael T. Heine Janet E. Vestre Maxine Fender Nanette M. Ellis Emerald City Casino Home Builders Association Cheri Warila Edward & Susan MCcabe Rick & Deb Evans Grant & Mercedes Eve of Great Falls In Memory of Sharyn E. Hughes Ardelle G. Haverlandt Joseph Eve Theresa Lind Richard Artz Betty J. Henderson Edward & Susan MCcabe Linda Eve Stan & Sandy Mayernik Leslie A. Goss Carol C. Irvin Darcy L. Salgado Paul & Rosemary Eve Gerry & Debbie Meyer Darell & Nancy Stott Mark & Mary Nicholls Edward & Susan MCcabe Philip & Lonnie Eve
Continued on page 14
FALL / WINTER 2016 13 Your Gifts Make a Real Difference
Sletten Cancer Institute Glen & Debbie Kimball Mark Simon & Dr. Jo Walker All Other Funds In Memory of Funds & Endowments Louie & Jessica King Erik & Kim Sletten & Endowments Joyce M. Bowman Daniel Konen Sletten Companies In HONOR of Delbert & Sharon Dieziger Mark & Melissa Kovacich Jean F. Sloan Dr. Rudo Ambayi William & Shonna Little Buzz Your Fuzz Larry & Julia Lewis Edward & Lisa Smith Anonymous Catherine K. Brennick Continued Lewis, Slovak, Kovacich & Snipes Paul S. Speirs-Hernandez ASCLS-MT William & Linda Booth Loenbro Neil & Gretchen Swift Dr. Michael & Angela Caselnova Fast Car Wash Jennifer L. Logan Taco Treat of Great Falls Child’s Play Charity Clarence A. Carlson Jr. David & Rebekah Fink Tiffany A. Madden The Sting Sports Bar Andrew & Wendy Davidson Wanda Hektner First Interstate Bank - Great Falls William & Kimberly Madison Beth Ann Thelen Joseph R. Dicapo Tim & Sheree Kelly Cynthia L. Foster Erik & Carmen Madsen Todd Timboe & Diane Myre-Timboe Veronica R. Erlenbush Stanley & Jeanette Rasmussen Michael & Sydne George Bruce & Caroline Madsen Tom Skovron Builders & Developers Jim & Debbie Filipowicz Gary K. Gragson Sean & Rayn Ginnaty Tom & Maria Mathews Joseph & Leslie Tripp Tamera M. Gleason William & Linda Booth Timothy & Sara Goroski Ronald & Susan McCullough United Materials Jordan L. Husted Irene M. Hodgskiss Gregoire Real Estate Brad & Cindi Meinhold Jack & Barbara Van Koten Dr. Donald & Kay Jelinek Delbert & Sharon Dieziger Jeffery & Catherine Gutowski Kirk & Kattie Meyer Dr. John G. VanGilder & Wayne E. Linnell Delman & Joyce Goss Guy Tabacco Construction Brent & Kelly Michel Dr. Sarah R. Kenney Vincent & Maureen Marko Olive M. Hindberg Halftime Sports Bar / Montana Milling, Inc. Terri A. Voytoski Michael & Carleen Milburn Robert & Michele Hodgskiss William & Connie Morris Emerald City Casinos Karen Moullet Ryan Waldenberg Frank R. Motil MSU Health & Human Development Wanda Hektner Joseph & Janell Murphy Woith Engineering Dr. Kennard & Marie Kapstafer James & Katherine Hill Timothy M. Murphy Kari J. Worum Muscular Dystrophy Kelly L. Hinrichs Mark & Linda Olson Association Inc. Ireene K. Motil Dr. Kennard & Marie Kapstafer Shannon Hoiland Katie J. Oyan NEPC, LLC Hoines Law Office Parker Farms Guy L. Robbins, III Stanley W. Tiffany Daniel Hollow & Karen Ogden Casey M. Patterson Mark Simon & Dr. Jo Walker Arthur & Sandra Matteucci Jordan L. Husted Edmund & Paulette Patterson Bernadette A. Stock Edward J. Warren Jamieson Family Theresa A. Preite The Claro Group Elsie E. Chamberlain Johnson Madison Lumber Company Chris & Cindy Reiquam James & Debra Thoroughman Virgil & Debra Chamberlain Kreg & Jacqueline Jones Schulte’s 38th Street Store Charles & Virginia Wieck Matt Kegal & Coffee House
Thank you for supporting Benefis Foundation! Our donors deserve proper recognition for being so amazing. If your name is listed incorrectly, please contact us & allow us to apologize & correct our records: 406.455.5840 or by email, [email protected].
Chemo Care Totes Donated to Help Cancer Patients
Thanks to Amber Kenner and the kindhearted people who supported her drive to provide 33 Chemo Care Totes for patients being treated at the Benefis Sletten Cancer Institute. Amber came up with the idea to donate the totes after a close relative was diagnosed with leukemia and a friend’s mother passed away from cancer. She said she felt “shocked and helpless” and wanted to do something to help. The local Thirty-One Gifts consultant reached out to her Facebook friends to see if anyone was interested in donating the cost of a tote, which she would fill with care items for cancer patients. She said “it really hit home” for a lot of people. Some also donated the cost to have the totes personalized with inspiring words. Amber then reached out to Great Falls businesses, asking for donations to fill the totes and, again, was happily surprised by all of the support she received. She also directed all of her commission from the purchase of the totes to help with the contents, which include journals, adult coloring books, Chicken Soup for the Soul books, water bottles, hand sanitizer, tissue, candy, lozenges, gift certificates for free sandwiches and coffee drinks, and more. These wonderful totes are sure to brighten the day for the patients who receive them. Thanks again, Amber!
14 FALL / WINTER 2016 Donor Gifts Make New Senior Services Bus Possible
Feeding the ducks at Gibson Park. Fall foliage drives. Christmas lights tours. Trips to the C.M. Russell Museum, the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center and other local and regional museums. These and other excursions are now on the agenda for the residents of Benefis Senior Care! Thanks to our donors, Benefis Senior Services now has a new bus that can take up to 14 passengers, a mix of regular seating and up to six wheelchairs at a time. “I cannot say enough about how this is going to enrich the lives of our residents,” said Becky Pugh, Community Mentor at Benefis Senior Services.“This is their home but, as great as it is, no one wants to stay home all the time. Now we have the ability to go out and do basic things such as shopping or visiting Becky said another resident really wants to go to a Great Falls another campus. You wouldn’t believe how much some of Central High School football game. those things that we see as mundane chores really mean the world to our residents when they get to do them again.” “I told her we will take her to a game,” she said. “The resident couldn’t believe it. She didn’t think she was important enough to Becky said they’ve carefully trained the staff on how to use the use the new bus for her request.” seatbelts and how to lock the safety restraints for the wheelchairs. Now the bus is on the move, rolling around town and helping The Benefis Senior Services team is grateful to the many donors residents with their “bucket list” items. who made it possible to get this new bus to enrich the lives of the residents. “One gentleman mentioned how he wished he could see his farm ‘one last time,’” she said. “He said it to another resident, who came “Often it’s just getting out and driving that our residents to me asking if we could help. The resident who had asked started love the most, especially if we include an ice cream stop crying with joy. He was so happy we would do something to help or a donut/bakery item as a treat,” said Becky. “Thank you his friend get his wish.” so much!” ✦ Family’s Donation Spurs Purchase of Tables for Hospice House
Longtime Great Falls postal worker and They wanted to give a donation to the Hospice veteran Stanley H. Anderson was the kind House to honor their uncle, who had given so much of guy who always gave back to others. of his life and labor and efforts to the Great Falls As a teenager, Stan joined the Marines and went community. So together they gave a generous gift to to fight in World War II. He also was a survivor purchase new over-bed tables for the patient rooms, of the epic 1950 battle of the Chosin Reservoir, replacing old tables that “were getting harder to fix where 15,000 allied ground troops went up and maintain” according to Peace Hospice staff. against 120,000 Chinese in the North Korean “When we talked to the staff about what mountains near Manchuria. to do with our gift, they were helpful in Stan returned to Great Falls and spent the understanding that Stan would want next 47 years working at the post office. something that would help other people,” Upon retiring, he gave his time as a said Wendy. “He would have wanted the volunteer until he was no longer able bedside tables for the patients.” to work. In order to buy tables for all 20 rooms at the Hospice House, “Stan was a very giving person, some of the cost had to be taken from the Peace Hospice and someone who wanted to be able to Peace Hospice Residential Facility funds held by the Benefis help other people,” said his niece, Foundation. The new tables have been in use since early this year Wendy Kennedy, who lives in Cut Bank. and have made an enormous difference for the patients as well as the staff and volunteers who serve them. Stan spent his final days in the Peace Hospice Residential Facility. He passed away in 2012 at age 84. His nieces and nephews were Thanks to Stan’s family and to all of the Peace Hospice donors grateful for the excellent care he received in the comfortable and who helped give this meaningful gift. What a wonderful way to homey “Hospice House.” honor a remarkable person! ✦
FALL / WINTER 2016 15 Non-Profit Org US Postage PAID Permit 129 Great Falls, MT A PUBLICATION OF Benefis Health System Foundation PO Box 7008 To receive an electronic version of Great Falls, MT 59406-7008 Contributor and/or our monthly electronic 1101 26th Street South newsletter, please send an email to [email protected]. 406.455.5840 benefisfoundation.org facebook.com/benefisfoundation ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
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Voyagers Jersey Auction Raises $4,310 for Children’s Beareavement Program
We are thrilled to share news that the Great The Children’s Bereavement Program helps Falls Voyagers jersey auction raised $4,310 so many children who are suffering the loss for the Benefis Children’s Bereavement of a parent, sibling or other close loved one Program. At the July 16th game, 30 jerseys through a summer camp for younger kids, were auctioned, with Corey Zangari’s a fall weekend retreat for teenagers, support going for the highest bid of $230. groups in the high schools, a regional outreach program to reach bereaved Thank you to the Voyagers and Centene children in outlying areas, an annual Stadium for this fun and family-friendly Christmas party and more. fundraiser and for all who went out to the ball game that night and bid on the jerseys. The program, which teaches children how And a special thanks to Russell Country to deal with grief in healthy ways, needs Federal Credit Union for choosing the donations in order to continue providing Children’s Bereavement Program as the this important care. Thanks again to all who beneficiary of this year’s auction. supported this event! ✦
Top: Player Richard McWilliams signs the jersey won by Tanya Cameron. Right: Christine and Vincent Lencioni were the lucky winners of Jameson Fisher's jersey. Russell Country Federal Credit Union presents the check to Benefis Foundation and Benefis Peace Hospice staff.
16 FALL / WINTER 2016