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Kathy Winkler, Retired Director of Pharmacy 2025 Memorial Hospital announces the retirement of Kathy Winkler, Director of Pharmacy, who has been a part of their team since October 1989. After over 35 years of dedicated service, Kathy retired on March 31, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of care, innovation, and collaboration.   Reflecting on her time at Memorial, Kathy shared, “Memorial has been like family to me. I have spent more than half of my life at the hospital. When you work at Memorial, it is more than a job—it is family. The team atmosphere here is second to none, and I have been blessed with wonderful coworkers not only within the pharmacy department but beyond. Every department works as a team, and we know we are all working toward the same goal: fulfilling Memorial's mission to take care of the patients and each other."   Beyond her role in the pharmacy, Kathy also helped organize the Memorial Hospital “Popeye Pedlars,” who joined St. Louis's Pedal the Cause event from 2018 to 2022, raising funds for cancer research at the Siteman Cancer Center and Siteman for Kids at Children’s Hospital.   “Kathy’s Leadership and collaboration have shaped the success of the Hospital and Retail pharmacy services. She was instrumental in many Memorial Hospital medication safety and giveback programs that have greatly benefited our community” said Brett Bollmann, CEO.   While her many professional achievements are noteworthy, Kathy’s fondest memories center on her colleagues and patients. From navigating the challenges of the 1993 flood, by commuting to work by boat, to fostering lifelong friendships. Kathy’s journey at Memorial exemplifies a life dedicated to service. She now looks forward to relaxing at the lake, crafting, reading, and spending more time with family and friends.   Amy Kloos, Director of Pharmacy As Memorial celebrates Kathy’s remarkable career, they are excited to welcome Amy Kloos, PharmD as their new Director of Pharmacy. Amy has been a dedicated pharmacist at Memorial since 2003 and brings with her a wealth of experience and a passion for patient care.

At Memorial Hospital, our top priority is the safety of our patients. Our mission is to ensure their well-being through the best safety practices. Every one of our employees dedicates themselves to ensuring the best safety practices possible to reduce harm and improve patient outcomes. Memorial recognized Patient Safety Awareness Week, March 9-15, by recognizing patient safety advocates throughout the organization who were nominated by their co-workers. During Patient Safety Awareness Week, employees nominated coworkers in recognition of their outstanding efforts as safety advocates at Memorial Hospital. Those nominated were Heather Williamson and Kathy Winkler. Heather Williamson and Kathy Winkler Heather Williamson, RT(R)(M)(CT)(MR) – Diagnostic Imaging Department “Being an MRI tech requires much more than operating the machine and achieving quality images. The number one priority is patient safety. Heather takes the role very seriously and is very well versed in keeping her MRI patients safe. She must thoroughly screen every patient getting a scan. If the patient has an implantable device, she can sometimes spend hours making sure the device is compatible and safe for the patient. She deserves to be recognized for the behind the scenes and daily safety of her MRI patients.” “As the lead MRI and lead CT technologist, Heather is knowledgeable in her field and provides good patient care. She goes above and beyond to meet the demands of many modality environments (x-ray, mammography, CT and MRI) and offers feedback for best practices for physicians and staff who value her input. She serves as a mentor to newer x-ray technologists. She commonly receives positive feedback from patients for her exceptional care and goes to great measures to provide comfort during their exam. She stays on top of regulatory and physicist safety and imaging standards. As a result, imaging techniques, protocols, and workflows are improved to provide good quality and safe patient care to the community.” Kathey Winkler, RPh, Director of Pharmacy – Pharmacy Department “Kathy has been instrumental in the medication safety and patient safety programs at Memorial. She makes safety a top priority in approaching any project no matter how big or small, or how much she has on her plate; she gives her time and shows the utmost dedication as an employee. She is excellent at analyzing each aspect of the situation to find the safest and most practical solution. She participates in multiple committees and is always willing to collaborate with others or take on projects to expand and improve services to the patients, improve processes for staff, and increase safety. All her contributions make a very long list and the value she adds to the organization is tremendous. Her work ethic and conscientious approach to safety is outstanding. She truly does go above and beyond, is a leader and role model for others, and makes the input of others on the team feel valued and appreciated.” “Kathy is always going out of her way to ensure that a patient has the best education on drugs, and when possible, she assists patients in finding better cost savings so they can afford their medications. I have witnessed her care with patients that need assistance, and she will stop her tasks to be a helping hand to them.” We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all employees and departments for their unwavering commitment to patient safety. Their dedication reflects Memorial Hospital’s longstanding commitment to professional excellence, compassionate care, and service to our patients, community, and each other.

Memorial Hospital's Rural Health Clinics (RHCs) strive to provide the best quality care possible this is why they are transitioning to a team-based approach.   Starting, February 12, 2024, the RHCs are moving to a paired system, meaning each physician is paired with an Advanced Practice Provider (APP); Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant. The pair works TOGETHER as a team to ensure your needs are being met with the same consistent providers every time you visit the clinic. Having a team approach allows for more patients to be seen, for collaboration in care and continuity of services.   If you are unable to see your doctor on the day you need to, you will be scheduled with their APP partner. This allows staff to get you in as soon as possible with the appropriate provider who is familiar with your unique health needs.   By ensuring you see the same providers every time you visit, you can have the confidence knowing that they are knowledgeable about your health history. The APP and physician work together and collaborate on your care plan. You now have a TEAM of professionals assessing your needs. Updated 3/27/2025 What does this mean regarding scheduling my appointment? If your Primary Care Provider (PCP) does not have an opening, and their APP does, then you can be scheduled with them that same day.   If your PCP and APP schedules are both full or if they are off that day, you can schedule an appointment with another APP for same-day, acute issues. If a same-day appointment is not necessary, you are welcome to schedule a future appointment with your PCP or APP.   Questions? If you have questions regarding this team approach to your healthcare, please contact one of the Rural Health Locations; in Chester 618-826-2388 or in Steeleville 618-965-3382

Melissa Soellner and Amy Mathis The Cardiac Pulmonary Rehab Center (CPRC) is proud to announce that its dedicated staff members attended the 2025 Illinois Society for Cardiopulmonary Health and Rehabilitation Conference held on March 7-8 in Urbana, Illinois. The conference brought together healthcare professionals from across the state to discuss the latest advancements and best practices in cardiopulmonary health and rehabilitation.   Melissa Soellner, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and Certified Clinical Exercises Physiologist, and Amy Mathis, Registered Nurse and CPRC Supervisor, represented the CPRC at the event. They participated in various sessions that covered critical topics regarding patient outcomes, exercise prescription, genetic testing, diabetes, obesity, and heart failure. In addition to learning up-to-date information that will enhance their practice, they had multiple opportunities to network with vendors, sponsors, and fellow cardiac and pulmonary rehab professionals.   Reflecting on her experience, Amy Mathis shared, “I appreciated the opportunity to network with other Cardiac & Pulmonary Rehab professionals from across the state—from large urban to more personal rural programs. I was able to glean tips on how I can better improve our program and offer additional resources to my patients. I've already begun working with patients based on some of the information I received.”   The insights gained from these sessions will be instrumental in enhancing the quality of care provided at the Memorial Cardiac Pulmonary Rehab Center. By integrating the latest research and innovative practices, CPRC continues to strive for excellence in patient care and outcomes.   For more information about the Memorial Cardiac Pulmonary Rehab Center and its services, please visit  www.mhchester.com/cprehab .

March is National Sleep Month, a perfect time to focus on the importance of sleep and how it impacts our overall health and well-being. At Memorial Hospital's Sleep Lab, we are dedicated to helping you achieve better sleep through comprehensive evaluations and personalized treatment plans. Here are some valuable tips to improve your sleep health: 1. Stick to a Sleep Schedule Consistency is key when it comes to sleep. Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. This helps regulate your body's internal clock and can improve the quality of your sleep. 2. Create a Restful Environment Your bedroom should be a sanctuary for sleep. Keep it cool, dark, and quiet to create a sleep-friendly environment. Consider using blackout curtains, earplugs, or a white noise machine to block out any disturbances. 3. Limit Screen Time Before Bed The blue light emitted by phones, tablets, and computers can interfere with your sleep. Try to avoid screens at least an hour before bedtime to help your body wind down naturally. 4. Watch Your Diet What you eat and drink can affect your sleep. Avoid heavy meals, caffeine, and alcohol close to bedtime, as these can disrupt your sleep or make it harder to fall asleep. 5. Stay Active Regular physical activity can help you fall asleep faster and enjoy deeper sleep. Just be sure to avoid vigorous exercise close to bedtime, as it can have the opposite effect. 6. Manage Stress Stress and anxiety can keep you awake at night. Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or progressive muscle relaxation to reduce stress and promote better sleep. 7. Limit Naps While short naps can be beneficial, long or irregular napping during the day can negatively affect your nighttime sleep. If you need to nap, try to keep it short and earlier in the day. 8. Get Some Sunlight Exposure to natural light during the day helps regulate your sleep-wake cycle. Try to spend some time outside each day, especially in the morning. 9. Avoid Large Amounts of Fluids Before Bed Drinking too much before bedtime can lead to frequent trips to the bathroom, disrupting your sleep. Try to limit your fluid intake in the evening. 10. Consider a Sleep Diary Keeping a sleep diary can help you track your sleep patterns and identify factors that might be affecting your sleep. This can be a useful tool to discuss with your healthcare provider. Memorial Hospital's Sleep Lab: Your Partner in Better Sleep If you continue to experience sleep issues despite following these tips, it may be time to consult a sleep specialist. Memorial Hospital's Sleep Lab offers comprehensive evaluations and personalized treatment plans to address a wide range of sleep disorders, including sleep apnea, insomnia, restless legs syndrome, and more. Our team of experts is dedicated to helping you achieve better sleep and improve your overall health. We use state-of-the-art technology and evidence-based practices to diagnose and treat sleep disorders effectively. Services Offered at Memorial Hospital's Sleep Lab: Sleep Studies:  In-lab and home sleep studies to diagnose sleep disorders. CPAP Therapy:  Continuous Positive Airway Pressure therapy for sleep apnea. Follow-Up Care:  Ongoing support and follow-up care to ensure effective treatment. Take Action for Better Sleep Today Don't let poor sleep affect your health and quality of life. Schedule an appointment with Memorial Hospital's Sleep Lab today and take the first step towards better sleep. Call us at [insert phone number] or visit our website at [insert website URL] to learn more about our services and how we can help you achieve restful, restorative sleep.

Auxiliary President Mardell Granger presents check to Tom Search Board Chairman Memorial Hospital is pleased to announce a generous donation of $11,987 from the Memorial Hospital Auxiliary, raised through the Tree of Remembrance Campaign. This contribution will be used to purchase a Bladder Scan i10 for the Emergency Room Department.   The Bladder Scan i10 is a non-invasive, portable tool that enables healthcare providers to detect and define the bladder location, size, shape, and the amount of fluid in the bladder. This advanced piece of equipment will facilitate quicker diagnosis, management, and treatment of urinary outflow dysfunction, significantly improving patient care in the Emergency Room.   Since 1983, the Memorial Hospital Auxiliary has donated over $500,000 to Memorial Hospital. "We are incredibly grateful for the continued support from the Memorial Hospital Auxiliary," said Brett Bollmann, CEO at Memorial Hospital. "Their dedication and generosity have made a profound impact on our ability to provide high-quality care to our community."   The Tree of Remembrance Campaign is an annual fundraising event that allows community members to honor and remember loved ones while contributing to the betterment of healthcare services at Memorial Hospital. This year's drive was a resounding success, thanks to the overwhelming support from the community.

Memorial Hospital hosted its Annual GoRed for Women event, titled "Simplify to Amplify," on February 27 at the Chester Country Club. The event saw a wonderful turnout, with eighty women in attendance, all eager to learn about heart health and ways to improve their well-being.   Attendees enjoyed a delightful evening featuring wine samples from Eric Winters of PRP Wine International and a heart-healthy meal prepared by the Chester Country Club. The event was highlighted by insightful presentations from guest speakers.   Dr. Monica Lukose, a Family Physician with Memorial Hospital's Rural Health Clinics, delivered an engaging talk on the risks associated with heart health and provided realistic strategies for improving heart health and reducing the risk of heart disease. The Memorial Hospital Auxiliary sponsored the keynote speaker, Emily Reuschel, a Rural Community Builder, Coach, and Podcaster, who conducted a workshop focused on reducing stress by “Simplifying to Amplify”.   The Memorial Hospital Medical Explorers helped serve the meals and drinks, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for all attendees. Additionally, Memorial Hospital staff provided valuable information at various stations: Nursing staff conducted blood pressure checks and shared details about the Cardiac Pulmonary Rehab Center, Diagnostic Imaging staff provided screening information on bone density and mammograms, and the Therapy and Sports Rehab Center shared insights on women's health physical therapy and pelvic floor therapy. The Auxiliary also showcased a selection of wonderful items from their gift shop.   The event was a success, raising awareness about the risk of heart disease in women and empowering attendees with knowledge and tools to take better care of their heart health. “Memorial Hospital is committed to continuing its efforts to educate and support the community in leading healthier, happier lives,” said Mariah Bargman, Community Relations Coordinator at Memorial. “This event is one of our most engaging events of the year. Taking care of health can be fun, and with events like this we hope guests enjoy learning about how to healthier, happier, lives.”

This winter, Memorial Hospital in Chester is thrilled to offer a three-part series dedicated to enhancing your brain health. Presented by Robin Ridgley, Family Life Educator with the University of Illinois Extension, these free classes are designed to help you keep your brain healthy and engaged. The series will take place on consecutive Mondays from February 17 to March 3, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, at the Chester Public Library located at 733 State Street in Chester, Illinois. All sessions are free, and everyone is welcome to attend. While registration is not required, it is encouraged. You can pre-register online at  www.mhchester.com  or by calling 618-826-4581 ext. 1373. Session Details: February 17: "Head Strong" Learn exercise strategies to enhance memory and thinking. February 24: "Hold that Thought!" Explore strategies for managing forgetfulness. March 3: "Fit Wits" Discover how to keep your brain healthy and engaged. Join us for this informative and engaging series to boost your brain health this winter! Why is Brain Health Important? Maintaining brain health is crucial for overall well-being and quality of life. The brain is responsible for cognitive functions, memory, movement, and emotions. As we age, the importance of brain health becomes even more significant due to the increasing prevalence of neurological disorders. Here are some key reasons why brain health is essential: Cognitive Function : A healthy brain supports learning, judgment, language use, and memory. These cognitive processes are vital for daily activities and overall mental sharpness Emotional Well-being : Brain health influences emotional regulation and mental flexibility, helping us manage stress and maintain a positive outlook Physical Health : The brain controls movement and coordination, impacting our ability to perform physical activities and respond to stimuli Social Interaction : A healthy brain helps us engage in appropriate social interactions, understand social cues, and adapt to social norms Prevention of Neurological Disorders : Maintaining brain health can reduce the risk of neurological disorders such as stroke, dementia, and Parkinson's disease By attending our brain health series, you'll gain valuable insights and strategies to keep your brain healthy and active. Don't miss this opportunity to invest in your brain health!

Brett Bollmann, CEO and Brandon Misselhorn Brett Bollmann, CEO at Memorial Hospital named Brandon Misselhorn Employee of the Quarter for the Fourth Quarter 2024 on January 15, 2025.   Brandon Misselhorn, Medical Tech in the Laboratory Department, has worked at Memorial Hospital since December 2021. When asked what he likes most about working at Memorial, he replied, “All of the staff. Everyone here is very nice, and I enjoy getting to work alongside and talk to everyone.”    His co-workers who nominated him wrote, “This employee is a great co-worker and a good asset to our department. Always friendly and helps out when we need it. Covers shifts as needed and always does a good job with our patients. Isn’t afraid to do something that might help out. Always goes above and beyond and willing to help out. Great with patients and is willing to stay late to make sure that the analyzers are up and running so that we don’t have delayed results for patients. Always has a smile on their face and we are lucky to have him!” Misselhorn resides in Ava, Illinois. Outside of his professional responsibilities at the hospital, he dedicates time to maintaining his physical fitness at the gym and enjoys recreational activities such as riding his dirt bike and side-by-side. Additionally, he has interest in both watching and participating in various sports.   Each quarter employees are encouraged to submit “star cards” for their co-workers who go above and beyond in their patient care or teamwork. Four random cards were drawn at the award presentation for Emily Colvis, Rural Health Clinic LPN; Stephanie Guethle, CNA; Amanda Rhyne, RHC Administrative Assistant; and Judy Springs, Housekeeper.

The Auxiliary is able to assist the hospital in purchasing needed equipment for various departments through the community's generous donations and memorials. Funds collected this year will be used to purchase a Bladder Scan i10 for the Emergency Room Department. To really care for people, you must understand the patients you care for today—and tomorrow. This piece of equipment will enable us to detect and define bladder location, size, shape and the amount of fluid in the bladder, automatically in seconds. The Non-invasive portable tool will help the patients get a quicker diagnosis, management and treatment of urinary outflow dysfunction. The cost of this purchase is $11,972. Funds raised to date are $12,286. This year’s Tree of Remembrance contributions will make up the majority of our fundraising for the year. Giving this year is more important than ever. During the holiday season we invite you to contribute in honor of a loved one. Your contribution and memorial are recognized weekly on Facebook and will be published in the County Journal at the end of the Tree of Remembrance drive. Donations and memorials can be mailed to: Memorial Hospital Auxiliary ATTN: Tree of Remembrance 1900 State Street Chester, IL 62233 Or scan this code to make an online donation: Memorials: Welton Schwent Family in Memory of Welton Schwent Earl Jungewaelter Family in Memory of Earl Jungewaelter Judi Hirte In memory of my parents - Bernice & Keith Rednour Barbara Ann Holley In memory of my husband - George Holley, my parents - Lois and Charles Hirte, my in-laws - Roseanne & Gordon V. Holley The Randy Dudenbostel Family In loving memory of Debbie Dudenbostel Cynthia Lawder In memory of Shelby Lawder Pechacek Funeral Homes In memory of Ron Pechacek Linda Rader In memory of PFC Leonard Nitzsche, L/CPL Charles Rader, & Russell Rader Beta Nu Chapter In memory of sisters passed Linda Butler In memory of Tony Beekner Jeannette Decker In memory of her husband Kevin Decker Steven J. Sympson in Honor of the People of the City of Chester, Illinois Steven J. Sympson in Memory of Uncle Terry Brelje and Aunt Martha Brelje Dale & Marsha Link in Memory of Harold & Ina Link, Charles & Jean Link, Glen & Bonnie (Link) Horn, Ron (Duck) & Nan Link, Jack & Sandra Link, and Tony Viorel Judith Petrowske In memory of Don Petrowske Mary Alice Welge in Remembrance of Donald Welge, Mr. & Mrs. Wilbur Saak, Mr. & Mrs. Brockey Childers, Mr. & Mrs. William H. Welge, 1st Lt. Bruce Welge, and Frances Jarvis Mary Alice Welge, Betty Surman, Elaine Kattenbraker, and Jean Jungewaelter In Memory of Bonnie Jones Larry and Joice Surman In memory of our daughter, Lori McCartney Janice Dettmer, Regina & Shawn Straight and Family In memory of Raymond Dettmer and John Dettmer Janice Dettmer, Judith McLeod, Joan and David Meyer, Gina and Shawn Straight and Family In memory of Herman and Louise Dettmer, John and Rose Leaders, and Mark McLeod Mary Brown In Memory of Bruce Brown Rhonda Bockhorn In memory of Betty Wagner Vernon L. Buch In memory of Mary Ann Hartmann Buch The Honorable Richard A. Brown In memory of Barb Brown Tom, Deana, Emily Tudor in memory of Cheryl McDonald Mardell Moeller Granger In memory of Ralph F. Granger, Gottlieb & Marie Moeller, and Frank & Emma Granger Darrel Ehlers In memory of Carol Ehlers Emily Lyons In memory of Camille & Blasé Lyons Larry & Imogenen McDonoughIn memory of loved ones The Guthman Family In memory of Debbie Dudenbostel, John & Jessie Guthman, Bonnie Jones, and Donna Strothmann Carl and Bonnie Todd in memory of Percy Davitz Mr. Rodney and Dr. Lisa Lowry-Rohlfing Beverly Bollman In memory of Don Bollman, Helen & Vernon Stamm Dr. Allan and Louise Liefer In remembrance of our parents Sam & Mathilda Stermer and Elmer & Elsie Liefer Donna Eggemeyer In remembrance of Roger and Ruth Petrowske Darlene Gentsch In remembrance of my parents, MR. & Mrs. Gale Armes Carolyn Schwent In memory of Gary Schwent, Mike Jungewaelter, Karen Deppe, Rick Cash, Phil Fluck, Larry Costilow, and Mary Ann Stumpe "B.V. Gals" In memory of Rosie Craig, Marion Lutz, Millie Layton, Carole Malley, and Marlene Seymour Barbara Hall In memory of Bruce Hall The Mike Vasquez Family In loving memory of Dan & Blanch Vasquez, John & Rudelle Fulford. Mary Ann Childers In memory of Gary Childers, Margaret Childers, Wm. O & Irene Welge, and Robert Charles Welge Virginia Rowold & Family Members In memory of Ken Rowold, The Otto Rowold Family, and the Wm. O. Welge Family Memorial Hospital Auxiliary In memory of Nancy Diercks Barb and Keith Kittel In memory of Kris and Kyle Kittell Sandra Starr In remembrance of Mark Starr Kathy Winkler In remembrance of Sandi Essner Kelly Moeller In remembrance of James Gregory Mary and Dave Verseman in remembrance of Roger and Ruth Petrowske and Families The Kordys Family In remembrance of Bonnie and Harry Jones Donations: The County Journal Evelyn Schuwerk Bremen Altar Guild Delta Kappa Gamma City of Chester Arbeiter Law Office Randolph County Abstract, LLC American Legion Auxiliary Kim Ruebke and Family Chester Rotary Club Ida, Gary and Stan Gaertner Chester Electrical Supply, Inc Rosemary Bert Alpha Upsilon Master Buena Vista National Bank Michael & Mary Sulser Randolph County Housing Authority Dr. James and Betty Krieg Jeanne Kleinschmidt Colvis Investment Services Falkenhein Accounting & Tax Service, P.C. St. Mary's Knights of Columbus Guice G. Strong Chester Animal Hospital, LLC Chester Masonic Lodge Chester Eagles Chester National Bank The Honorable Judge Schuwerk & Mrs. Evelyn Schuwerk Gilster Mary Lee Donna Clendenin Chester VFW Sandra Benedict Benson's Wine Bar William and Patty Nanney Partners Hometown Insurance Agency Dr. Stephen and Diane Platt Deepanjali Dummi Tom and Vicki Search Robert and Brenda Owen

Dr. James Krieg December 31, 2024, marked the end of an era as Dr. James Krieg concluded his distinguished career as a Family Healthcare Physician at Memorial Hospital’s Rural Health Clinics. With an impressive 45 years of service in Chester, IL, Dr. Krieg has provided compassionate and comprehensive care to countless patients. Dr. Krieg began his practice on January 1, 1980, joining Doctors Isreal Newmark, Milton Zemlyn, and Stephen Platt, who were the lead physicians at the Chester Clinic and part of the Medical Staff at Memorial Hospital. His decision to practice in Chester was driven by his appreciation for the stability of the practice and the welcoming community. Throughout his tenure, Dr. Krieg has enjoyed the variety of care he has been able to provide, from performing small surgical procedures and delivering many babies early in his career in the Obstetrics Department (OB) to offering extensive personal care daily. His greatest joy has been the hope that he has made a difference in the lives of those he has cared for. Dr. Krieg has cherished working with the dedicated team of nurses, providers, and staff who prioritize patient-centered care. Reflecting on his time at Memorial, Dr. Krieg shared, "There is a feeling of teamwork; each person doing their best to meet the needs of the patients." He fondly recalls his favorite memories, saying, "Growing 'old' with those who have been with Memorial Hospital and Chester Clinic for many years. We have shared many 'interesting' experiences. Also, I have enjoyed working alongside some whom I delivered while doing OB." Dr. Krieg has seen many improvements throughout the years, noting, "The hospital continued to expand, remodel, and push toward staying up to date with changing technology. The most recent development of the Medical Office Building will give years of service for the providers and community." As he embarks on his well-deserved retirement, Dr. Krieg looks forward to spending more time with his family and volunteering. He humorously shared, "My daughter gave me a clock with hour, minute, and second hands but the numbers are all at the bottom, scattered. The inscription reads, 'Whatever...I'm Retired!'" His contributions to Memorial the community have been invaluable, and his presence will be greatly missed. He expressed what he will miss most, "Serving others; medicine allows the unique opportunity to help people navigate the uncertainties of life. I have been blessed with the strength and health to spend the last 45 years doing what I have loved. Remember: God first, others second, I'm third." To honor Dr. Krieg’s remarkable career and dedication, Memorial Hospital invites the community to a retirement party open house on January 25th at the Chester Country Club from 2-4 pm. Please join us in celebrating Dr. Krieg’s legacy and wishing him joy and health in his retirement. Dr. Krieg has been a valued asset to Memorial and the Chester community, and we are forever grateful for the care and compassion he has shown. We wish him all the best in this new chapter of his life.

Memorial Hospital is proud to announce the retirement of Carol Schulein-Buch, storeroom manager, after an extraordinary 48 years of dedicated service.   Carol began her journey at Memorial Hospital on August 1, 1976, as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) and Ward Clerk. After three years in this role, she transitioned to the storeroom manager position, where she has served for an impressive 45 years. Throughout her tenure, Carol has been a cornerstone of the hospital, ensuring that all departments were well-supplied with everything from office materials to critical medical supplies.   Reflecting on her time at Memorial, Carol shared, "   Working at Memorial has always been rewarding. In my early days as a CNA and ward clerk, I took care of patients when we had 80-100 patients in-house. I witnessed many babies being born and now see them with their own families. In my later years, working in materials management, I ensured that various departments had the supplies they needed. Knowing that these supplies helped improve health and, in some cases, saved lives, was incredibly fulfilling."   Carol's career is marked by countless memories and friendships. “I have countless memories, from forming long-lasting friendships that became like family to sharing many laughs. I've witnessed many changes, with almost all departments moving from their original locations. I was especially pleased to see the new Medical Office Building open."   Known affectionately as "work mom" by many of her younger colleagues, Carol has been a source of wisdom and support, always ready to offer advice and share in the joys and challenges of her coworkers' lives. "I will miss seeing everyone on a daily basis as I delivered supplies throughout the building. I will always treasure catching up on their families and being there for each other through good and bad times."   As Carol embarks on her well-deserved retirement, she looks forward to making new memories with her husband, who is also retiring. They plan to spend time with their children and grandchildren, enjoy the outdoors, tend to the flower garden, and watch the hummingbirds. Carol also looks forward to catching up with old friends and reading.   Memorial Hospital extends its deepest gratitude to Carol Schulein-Buch for her unwavering dedication and service. Her contributions have left an indelible mark on the hospital and the community it serves. We wish her all the best in her retirement.