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Real People. Real Stories.

Patient Bob Jones exercises in FMC's Cardiac Rehab Gym with nursing staff

The Monitor is Fairfield Medical Center’s periodic publication featuring FMC patients telling the story of their care experience. The magazine not only offers an opportunity share patient stories, but also to celebrate our caregivers.

The Monitor also features:

  • Tips for healthy habits
  • News from the FMC Foundation
  • A calendar of upcoming events
  • A spotlight of new providers in the community

If you or someone you know has experienced amazing care at FMC, share your story by emailing marketing@fmchealth.org.


The Monitor, Fall 2023

The Monitor, Fall 2023

In this issue…

A Heartfelt Approach
When a severe anxiety disorder made it difficult for Amanda Reynolds to seek care for a heart condition, her cardiology team at Fairfield Medical Center helped guide her through the process with compassion and understanding.

A Fight to the Finish
When Catherine Brock, 33, discovered a lump in her breast during a self-exam, her care team at FMC moved quickly to diagnosis and treat her cancer. Now she’s encouraging other women to be proactive when it comes to their breast health.

Preventative Measures
A new diagnostic test offered at the Fairfield Medical Heartburn Center is helping patients like Bill Maffit identify health issues that could potentially lead to esophageal cancer if left untreated.

Passion and Purpose
Maternity nurse Lauren Thomas never imagined she would end up working in healthcare – until her own labor and delivery experience ignited a passion she didn’t know she had.

Safe and Sound
A new intake process in the Emergency Department called SAFE ED is decreasing long wait times by connecting patients with providers and nurses more quickly.

The Monitor, Spring 2023

In this issue…

One Step at a Time.
After narrowly avoiding a lower limb amputation, FMC Wound Clinic patient Audra Harden is back on her feet again – and raising awareness about a common chronic disease.

Living Life in Rhythm.
Community Heart Watch, a program that started a decade ago through Fairfield Medical Center, aims to save lives from cardiac arrest while also making a difference for residents such as Andrew Vaughan and his son, Ryder, who both live with the same heart condition.

A Family Legacy.
As oncologist Dr. Kanwaljit Singh departs the hospital and community he served for several decades, his daughter, Dr. Avneet Singh, looks forward to carrying on the family’s legacy in medicine.

ON THE COVER, Not Skipping a Beat.
Avid outdoorsman Jack Campbell is rediscovering his passions and enjoying a renewed sense of energy following minimally invasive heart surgery.

A Specialized Solution.
After years of severe pain and failed remedies, Makala Shipley feared she would never find a solution to her gallbladder issues – until she learned about FMC’s robotic surgery program.

The Monitor, Fall 2022

The Monitor, Fall 2022

In this issue…

Living Proof.
After years of avoiding routine check-ups, a near-fatal event has Mike North counting his blessings – and encouraging others not to put off their preventative care.

From Heartburn to Healing.
When Karen Kampe began experiencing sudden, severe chest pain, she feared something might be wrong with her heart. Her care team at Fairfield Medical Center quickly confirmed that the pain wasn’t cardiac, but rather a rare gastrointestinal condition that required emergency surgery.

Raise Your Voice.
When Sarah Hutchinson’s unsettling health concerns weren’t being addressed by her provider, she switched her care to Fairfield Healthcare Professionals – and uncovered a life-changing diagnosis.

ON THE COVER: Connection Beyond Care.
From disease management to general wellness (and everything in between), the Dum family knows they can always count on their primary care provider for guidance and support.

Stronger Together.
After experiencing similar sports-related injuries, teammates Kate Gavin and Abby Kenney teamed up to motivate and support one another through their therapy sessions.

The Monitor, Spring 2022

The Monitor, Spring 2022

In this issue…

Making Stride.
After a stroke affected the use of Terri Garrett’s left arm and hand, she turned to the therapy team at FMC, who helped her establish a plan of action to reclaim the mobility she lost.

Surviving and Thriving.
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in women, and Deb Gilbert almost contributed to that statistic. Thanks to her grandson’s lifesaving actions and the care of her cardiac and therapy teams at FMC, Deb is now urging other women to pay attention to the warning signs that she ignored.

Power of the Community.
In an effort to train more community members in CPR and improve cardiac arrest survival rates, Community Heart Watch’s new mobile training unit will be traveling throughout Fairfield County and beyond starting this spring.

Hope in Full Bloom.
Last spring, Patty Swinehart opted to undergo a lung cancer screening, a decision that proved to be lifesaving when the test uncovered two spots on her lung.

A Joyful Reunion.
A special reunion at FMC allowed patient Philip DeLong to thank the many healthcare workers who saved his life during his month-long hospitalization with COVID-19.

On the Cover: A Reassuring Presence.
When Levi Vanatta required hospitalization following an RSV diagnosis, his care team at FMC pulled together to help him make a full recovery.

The Monitor, Fall 2021 Cover

The Monitor, Fall 2021

In this issue…

Support & Serve
Patient Meagan Lane and maternity nurse Haley Moku, RN, developed a special bond in the delivery room after they learned that their families share an extraordinary connection.

The Long Road Home.
When Dale Richardson experienced a medical emergency while driving home from vacation, he put his trust in Fairfield Medical Center to help him recover.

Adventure Awaits.
After losing a combined 400 pounds following weight loss surgery, Jennifer and Chris Boggs are enjoying life as they never have before.

Back in Action.
When Ken Darst decided that he could no longer live with debilitating hip pain, he didn’t have to travel far to find a solution.

ON THE COVER: Peace of Mind.
After almost putting off a routine mammogram that would end up revealing a breast cancer diagnosis, Tracy Gerardi has a message for other women: Do not delay your annual screening.

The Monitor, Spring 2021

The Monitor, Spring 2021

In this issue…

Feeling the Burn.
After taking medication for years to control his heartburn, Drew Mace wanted a permanent solution. He opted to undergo anti-reflux surgery at FMC – and hasn’t touched his medication since.

Motivated to Move.
When knee pain was keeping Sam Price from the activities he enjoyed, he turned to FMC for a solution. Two knee surgeries later, he’s pain free and back to doing what he loves.

SPECIAL SECTION: COVID-19 – ONE YEAR LATER
A local artist and two Fairfield County families share how FMC’s healthcare heroes made a difference for them in the midst of a heartbreaking year.

From Heartbreak to Healing.
When a family loses a loved one to COVID-19, it’s the doctors and nurses who become their strongest support system in those final days. Read how FMC’s front line team made a difference for the families of Connie Cox and David Cyphert.

The Monitor, Fall 2020 Cover

The Monitor, Fall 2020

In this issue…

A Crucial Call.
A fall at work brought on a series of events that Mike Miller never expected. Luckily, the decisions made by his care team at FMC were critical in ensuring that he would make a quick recovery.

The Bond of Motherhood.
When Shannon Russell experienced a frightening complication shortly after the birth of her daughter, she felt comforted knowing her OB/GYN would see her through it every step of the way.

Heroes and Hope in Uncertain Times.
Even in the scariest of times, there are always people who are working to make the situation better. Read five stories of patients, employees and providers who have made a difference for others during COVID-19.

Heart of the Community.
Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) survivor Scott Hardwick nearly died multiple times in one day, but the quick thinking and action of multiple caregivers saved his life.

Connection in a Crisis.
At the urging of her primary care provider, Carla Yantes sought emergency care for an issue that she thought was minor. The decision ended up saving her life.

On the Cover: Faces From the Frontlines.
Devon Marshall, emergency management coordinator, and 15 other FMC staff members share how their roles have been impacted by COVID-19.

The Monitor, Spring 2020 Cover

The Monitor, Spring 2020

In this issue…

State-of-the-Heart Technology.
Robert “Bob” Jones recently became the first patient at Fairfield Medical Center to be treated with the TAVR procedure, an innovative alternative to open-heart surgery.

Feeling Fierce.
Lisa Fierce is finally making herself – and her health – a priority after shedding more than 180 pounds following her weight loss surgery at Fairfield Medical Center.

Battling the Burn.
Tired of letting the pain and discomfort of heartburn run his life, Columbus firefighter Kelly Storts turned to the Fairfield Medical Heartburn Center for a solution.

ON THE COVER, Finding His Voice.
With the help of FMC’s therapy team, Josh Claybourn, 7, can now communicate verbally with the world around him.

The Monitor Cover, Fall 2019

The Monitor, Fall 2019

In this issue…

Whole New World.
The team at Fairfield Medical Center’s Wound Clinic worked for over a year with Donald Tinnerman to save his leg from an infection brought on by his uncontrolled diabetes.

A Mission of Healing.
Christine Arni has devoted her life to helping others. When a diagnosis of breast cancer threatened to stand in her way, the cancer care team at FMC helped to ensure that Christine’s mission trips wouldn’t have to be put on hold.

Against all Odds.
While being treated at FMC for his third heart attack, Chuck Snider experienced a life-threatening setback. With the help of advanced technology and a dedicated team of specialists and nurses working around the clock, Chuck made a miraculous recovery and is grateful to be alive.

ON THE COVER: Redefining Goals.
After two knee injuries sidelined soccer player Bree West, the therapy team at Fairfield Medical Center inspired her to reach a new goal.

The Monitor Cover, Summer 2019

The Monitor, Summer 2019

In this issue…

Time on My Side.
Despite a delay in seeking treatment, Jackie Bailey’s care team at FMC and the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center were able to race against the clock to save her life following a sudden stroke.

Be Your Own Kind of Beautiful.
Years of dialysis treatment left Julie Lindsey feeling self-conscious about the appearance of the access site on her arm. She was told nothing could be done – until she sought a second opinion at FMC.

River Valley Opens
After four years of planning and construction, FMC prepares to open its state-of-the-art community center of medical care and fitness.

A Matter of Trust.
For 20 years, Carla Munsey has put her trust in FMC’s cancer care program through repeated battles of both lung cancer and Hodgkin lymphoma.

ON THE COVER, Tending to the Heart.
Unable to afford cardiac rehab following open heart surgery, Tim Graham turned to FMC’s Heart & Lung Fund for help.

The Monitor Cover, Spring 2019

The Monitor, Spring 2019

In this issue…

Unbeatable Teamwork.
Patti Hayes beat cancer twice with the help of a team of doctors and nurses who provided a comprehensive approach to her care.

Hearts of Gold.
From the EMS who wouldn’t leave her side to the clinicians who cared for her and her family, Nikki Griffin has one word to describe her experience at FMC: heartfelt.

SPECIAL SECTION: The Perfect Fit.
Fairfield Medical Center prepares to open its state-ofthe-art River Valley Campus.

ON THE COVER: Focused on the Future.
FMC’s Outpatient Therapy team gave Elijah Crum the inspiration he needed to recover from a stroke.

The Monitor Cover, Fall 2018

The Monitor, Fall 2018

In this issue…

Matters of the Heart.
When Lisa Lipka needed surgery to remove a large cyst near her heart, her FMC cardiovascular team was there to ease her concerns and help her heal.

With Every Breath.
The care and compassion of FMC’s staff kept Gary Swope strong as he battled a rare infection.

Calming the Chaos.
FMC and its Heartburn Center gave Marilyn Stephenson the tools she needed to find relief from acid reflux.

Tough as Iron.
Had it not been for genetic testing, Tracy Simons’ colon cancer may have not been discovered until years later.

ON THE COVER, A Second Shot.
After re-tearing her ACL, Brittany Deval turned to FHP Orthopedics to help her get back on the field.

The Monitor Cover, Summer 2018

The Monitor, Summer 2018

In this issue…

The Nature of Teamwork.
The Outpatient Therapy team at FMC went above and beyond to ensure that patient Tony McGallicher was physically ready to return to the job he loved following shoulder surgery and a neck injury.

Back in the Swing.
Severe back pain was keeping Sondra Kern from her passion – until she met with the orthopedic team at FMC.

A Grateful Heart.
A team approach and personalized care made Monroe County resident Darlene Winland feel right at home at FMC following a heart attack.

Constance is a Virtue.
A unique event at Hocking Hills allows attendees to raise money for local breast cancer patients while embarking on a breathtaking canoe ride and nature tour.

ON THE COVER, Grace Under Pressure.
Faith, positivity and excellent care kept aspiring nurse Grace Gundelfinger strong during her cancer battle.

The Monitor, Fall 2017

The Monitor, Fall 2017

In this issue…

Breath of Fresh Air.
Lung cancer survivor Barney Ankrom didn’t have to think twice when it came to where he should go for his treatment.

Enjoying the Ride.
A small heart pump and a skilled team of caregivers at FMC saved Delbert Buck’s life following a sudden heart attack.

Reelin’ in Results.
FMC nurse Millie Pritchard has a healthier outlook on life after dropping more than 100 pounds following bariatric surgery.

The Bright Side of Life.
Retired State Highway Patrol Trooper Larry Jackson didn’t realize how bad his vision was – until surgery made his world a whole lot clearer.

On the Cover: A Fighting Chance.
Teamwork and sheer determination saved Holly and Carley Amerine’s lives – now Holly is educating other mothers about the importance of paying attention to their bodies during pregnancy.

The Monitor Cover, Summer 2017

The Monitor, Summer 2017

In this issue…

Back on Course.
Hip pain was keeping Mike Diamond from his golf game – until FHP Orthopedics got him back into the swing of things.

The Root of the Problem.
Ron Ramey thought his on again, off-again chest pain was just a symptom of acid reflux – until a trip to FMC’s Emergency Department uncovered a serious cardiac problem.

Surviving the Unexpected.
A week after delivering her first baby, maternity nurse Rachael Hall was back in the hospital with a rare and serious pregnancy complication.

Cleared For Take Off.
When pilot Scott Richardson found himself dealing with a medical issue over a holiday weekend, the First Medical Urgent Care was on call to give him the quick treatment he needed.

A Cause Worth Riding For.
FMC nurse Valerie Shaw, along with her horse, Georgie recently helped raise money for heart patients.

A Second Chance at Life.
Four out of five people don’t survive a ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm, but Don Dupler was one of the lucky ones.

ON THE COVER, Unstoppable Drive.
Mike Landfried’s unbelievable determination to overcome a stroke that temporarily robbed him of his ability to speak and walk is inspiring other stroke patients.

The Monitor, Winter 2017

The Monitor, Winter 2017

In this issue…

Cheering On the Fight Against Breast Cancer.
Inspired by librarian Traci Mahler’s cancer battle, Fairfield Union students are raising money to help cancer patients at FMC.

Every Minute Counts.
Rick Cochran and wife Denise Bauer have discovered what truly matters in life after Rick’s near-fatal battle with sepsis.

Keeping the Pace.
When Afib threatened to keep Jay Truesdell from his passion, FMC got him back on track.

A New (& Healthier) Normal.
With the help of Fairfield Medical Center’s Diabetes Support Group, Kim Coakley isn’t letting her diagnosis define her.

Growing With the Community.
In line with the hospital’s strategic plan, FMC is working to grow its services beyond the hospital’s main campus.

ON THE COVER, Strength in Numbers.
Renee Reindle’s family and the staff at Fairfield Medical Center have kept her strong in the biggest fight of her life.

The Monitor Magazine Spring 2016 Cover

The Monitor, Spring 2016

In this issue…

Live to Ride. Ride to Live.
When doctors told motorcycle enthusiast Thomas Phillips that gangrene would eventually take his leg, he refused to accept that fate. Instead, he found hope through Fairfield Medical Center’s Wound Clinic.

Circle of Care.
Thanks to the support of her family, friends and caregivers at FMC, two-time breast cancer patient Sue Blanchard is staying strong in the face of a difficult diagnosis.

I Had FMC and Luck On My Side.
When Sue Able learned that she was living with a fatal health condition, she participated in a clinical trial at FMC to help others in her situation.

Botulism: Moving Forward, Looking Back.
One year after their lives changed forever, the members and leadership of Cross Pointe Free Will Baptist Church look back on the day they will never forget.

ON THE COVER, Hungry for Success.
Inspired by her own mother’s weight loss success, Paige Danner underwent bariatric surgery at Fairfield Medical Center and is on the road to a much healthier lifestyle.

The Monitor Magazine Fall 2015 Cover

The Monitor, Fall 2015

In this issue…

Trip of My Dreams.
A stroke and diagnosis of sleep apnea almost sidelined Susan Bloom’s plans for a European vacation.

Highway to Health.
Committed to getting his care at FMC, Glouster resident Ken Bussart drove two hours round trip every week for cardiac rehab.

Bonding at First Breath.
As the first patient at FMC to undergo a gentle C-section, Amanda Horn had a birth experience unlike any other.

ON THE COVER, Opening the Doors to a Century of Miracles: The Story of Our First Patients
It was 1916 when a young couple involved in a serious train accident became the first patients to be treated at Lancaster Municipal Hospital.

The Monitor Magazine Summer 2015 Cover

The Monitor, Summer 2015

In this issue…

Getting Saucy Again.
Heartburn was keeping Priscilla Fitzsimmons from the food she loved – until she found relief through the Fairfield Medical Heartburn Center.

Beating the Odds.
Roy Nichols may have severe heart failure, but with the help of FMC’s Congestive Heart Failure Clinic, he’s not letting it control his life.

Nothing is Going to Break My Stride.
A recent brush with death isn’t holding Ed Readman back from inspiring others living with heart disease.

ON THE COVER, Striking out Pain.
When hip pain began to interfere with Timothy McGee’s job as a high school sports official, he turned to FMC’s orthopedic program for help.