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Michelle Tripp, RN; Carrie Jo Dierks, Infusion Nursing Assistant; and Deb Stenberg, RN. At Memorial Hospital, our Chemotherapy and Infusion Center is where clinical expertise meets genuine compassion. Whether you need chemotherapy, immunotherapy, blood transfusions, port-a-cath or PICC line care, long-term antibiotic therapy, or injections and infusions for a range of medical needs, our fully equipped center provides thoughtful, personalized care designed to make each visit as comfortable and reassuring as possible.   From the moment you arrive, our Certified Nursing Staff focuses on your comfort and safety. Treatment chairs are heated and massaging, each station has a personal TV and free Wi‑Fi, and our team moves with efficiency, so you spend less time commuting and more time resting with loved ones. The team coordinates closely with family physicians, labs, imaging, and specialty providers so appointments, results, and follow-ups happen smoothly. Dr. Justin Floyd, D.O. Memorial’s Specialty Clinic providers work hand in hand with the Infusion Center to deliver coordinated care close to home. Dr. Justin Floyd, D.O. , leads with both skill and heart. “Helping patients and families daily navigate the cancer journey reminds me why this work matters,” he says. “Catching cancer early typically improves outcomes, and we’re here to listen, answer questions, and build a plan that fits your life.” Michelle McQuillan, DNP, FNP-BC , sees patients alongside Dr. Floyd to support symptom management, education, and continuity of care.   Through Dr. Floyd and the team at Cancer Care Michelle McQuillan, DNP, FNP-BC Specialists of Illinois , patients are offered access to clinical trials. Memorial Hospital also offers nutrition counseling, social work support, and rehabilitation services so care addresses the whole person, not just the diagnosis. Affiliations with regional centers strengthen the care available locally and help chart a path for expanded services in the future.   Patients tell us the difference is the people. “Everyone is very nice and courteous... I would rate this center as one of the Best,” one patient shared. Another family wrote, “Everyone in infusion is so kind and caring. They make the experience so much better.”   If you or a loved one need infusion or oncology care, Memorial Hospital is here to support you every step of the way with expertise, warmth, and care close to home. Call (618) 826-4581 or visit www.mhchester.com/chemotherapy-infusion-center to learn more.

Sparta Community Hospital and Memorial Hospital Decon Teams with BJC EMA instructor. On October 1, 2025, Memorial Hospital in Chester, hosted a comprehensive Emergency Decontamination Training session, welcoming both its own Decontamination team and three members from Sparta Community Hospital’s Decon team. Led by Scott Klosterman of BJC Emergency Management Agency (EMA), the training provided critical education and hands-on experience to enhance regional readiness for hazardous exposure incidents.   Participants engaged in classroom instruction focused on identifying and responding to chemical, biological, liquid, and radiological threats. The curriculum emphasized proper protocols for decontaminating patients exposed to hazardous materials, ensuring staff are equipped with the knowledge and confidence to act swiftly and safely in real-world scenarios.   A key component of the training involved mastering the use of specialized protective suits, including correct procedures for donning and doffing. Staff also practiced patient decontamination techniques using Memorial Hospital’s decontamination tent and equipment, gaining valuable experience in a controlled, realistic setting.   The immersive, hands-on nature of the training was well received by attendees, who appreciated the opportunity to refine their skills and collaborate across institutions. Memorial and Sparta Community Hospital remain committed to fostering preparedness and community resilience through ongoing education and inter-hospital partnerships.

As Breast Cancer Awareness Month unfolds, Memorial Hospital invites every woman to claim her power through prevention, early detection, and compassionate care. While genetics play a role in some cases, most breast cancers develop without a family history. This October, let’s focus on the things we can control, adopting healthy habits, staying vigilant with self-exams, and keeping up with recommended screenings.   Maintaining a balanced lifestyle can help lower your breast cancer risk. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week, prioritize a diet rich in colorful fruits and vegetables, and limit alcohol to one drink per day. If you smoke, seek support to quit, your entire body, including your breasts, will thank you. Small daily choices add up to powerful protection.   While healthy habits strengthen your body, screenings ensure no changes go unnoticed. Monthly breast self-exams help you recognize what’s normal for you, but clinical mammograms are the leading diagnostic approach. This week on our social channels, we’ll debunk common myths versus facts like how mammograms detect cancer before symptoms appear and use only minimal radiation exposure. Follow us on Facebook  and Instagram  to arm yourself with truth and share our carousel.   Mammography Technologists, Heather Williamson, Wesleyan Fadler, & Rhonda Mott Early detection dramatically improves survival outcomes. Women diagnosed at a localized stage have a five-year relative survival rate as high as 99%, and smaller tumors often require less aggressive treatment, lumpectomy instead of mastectomy, for example, so recovery is smoother and side effects fewer. “Catching cancer early gives our patients the best chance at a full recovery,” says Rhonda Mott, Chief Radiologic Technologist. “Our 3D mammography technology captures detailed images that help us spot tiny changes long before they become problems.”   Scheduling your screening is simple. First, ask your physician for a mammogram order, then call Memorial Hospital’s Mammography Department at (618) 826-4581 to book your appointment. Most insurance plans under the Affordable Care Act cover annual or biennial mammograms for women age 40 and older, and Medicare pays for yearly screenings as well. If you’re under 40 but have concerns, speak with your provider about starting earlier.   Your health is your power. By combining healthy habits, self-exams, and state-of-the-art 3D mammograms, you take control of your breast health, and if treatment becomes necessary, our Chemotherapy & Infusion Center  stands ready with personalized care, from chemotherapy and immunotherapy to access to clinical trials through Specialty Clinic Oncologist, Dr. Justin Floyd. Together, we infuse hope at every step. Schedule your screening today, and share this article with the women you love.

Amy Mathis, Cardiac Pulmonary Rehab Nurse Supervisor; Melissa Soellner, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist; Kelly Jany, Nurse Manager; Brett Bollmann, CEO; Susan Diddlebock, Chief Nursing Officer; Mariah Bargman, Marketing and Community Relations Manager. Memorial Hospital in Chester has earned the Merit Award in the Community Outreach category at the Illinois Society of Healthcare Marketing and Public Relations Fall Conference, held September 17 in Geneva, IL. The Merit Award represents the second highest honor in its category and recognizes the hospital’s innovative campaign introducing the new Cardiac & Pulmonary Rehab Center to area residents. Mariah Bargman, Marketing and Community Relations Manager at Memorial, joined peers from across the state to accept the accolade and celebrate the team’s dedication to patient education and community engagement. The award‐winning campaign launched in June 2024, shortly after the center opened its doors in May. Faced with rising rates of respiratory and cardiac diagnoses, Memorial Hospital set out to bridge gaps in post-hospital care by bringing specialized rehabilitation services closer to home. The marketing initiative wove together warm photography of familiar faces, educational videos featuring Dr. John Groll, Cardiologist and Specialty Clinic physician at Memorial, along with print and digital materials designed to explain the recovery process and encourage referrals from providers. Throughout the year, the hospital’s Marketing Department and Cardiac & Pulmonary Rehab Center leveraged a multi-channel awareness campaign that included trusted voices and visual storytelling. The materials underscored Memorial Hospital’s commitment to long-term wellness and health equity, ensuring that patients and families felt both informed and supported from diagnosis through recovery. By the end of its first year, the Cardiac & Pulmonary Rehab Center had served 22 patients, 18 completing the cardiac rehab program, two completing pulmonary rehab, and two receiving outpatient respiratory services. To sustain patient engagement beyond the campaign’s launch, the Rehab Center has introduced monthly support sessions for program graduates and the public with their “Beat, Breathe, Thrive” meetings held the fourth Tuesday of every month. Staff have provided educational talks at senior centers and continue to reach out to the community at in-person events. “Winning the ISHMPR Merit Award affirms our belief that heartfelt storytelling and community trust are vital in healthcare outreach,” said Brett Bollmann, CEO at Memorial Hospital. “Our Cardiac & Pulmonary Rehab Center campaign was built on empathy, clarity, and local connections. We’re honored to be recognized and remain steadfast in our mission to help every patient heal and thrive close to home.” The Cardiac & Pulmonary Rehab Center offers personalized exercise programs, nutritional guidance, risk-factor education, and ongoing support for individuals recovering from heart surgeries, heart attacks, chronic respiratory conditions, and other cardiopulmonary events. For more information visit www.memorialhospital.org/CPRC or call (618) 826-4581.

BECK Nursing Students: Memorial Hospital is excited to welcome Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) students from Beck School of Nursing to its facility for the Fall 2025 semester. Beginning this fall, students will complete clinical rotations every Wednesday, working 12-hour shifts alongside hospital staff to gain hands-on experience in patient care. Throughout the semester, students will rotate through a variety of departments, including Chester Clinic, Specialty Clinic, Emergency Department, Infusion, Surgery, and Medical-Surgical. This broad exposure will allow students to develop essential nursing skills while experiencing the unique aspects of healthcare delivery in a community hospital setting. “We are proud to partner with Beck School of Nursing to help prepare the next generation of nurses,” said Susan Diddlebock, Chief Nursing Officer at Memorial Hospital. “These students bring enthusiasm, dedication, and fresh perspectives that benefit both our staff and the patients we serve.” The partnership reflects Memorial Hospital’s ongoing commitment to supporting healthcare education and workforce development. By providing real-world training opportunities, the hospital ensures that students gain the knowledge and confidence needed to excel in their nursing careers. Memorial Hospital welcomes the Beck School of Nursing LPN students and looks forward to a successful semester of learning, collaboration, and service to the community.

Heather Cheaney, APRN, FNP-BC We are pleased to announce Heather Cheaney, APRN, FNP-BC will be joining the team of specialty providers at Memorial Hospital. Heather works with Dr. Samuel Medaris and will offer ENT clinic visits at the specialty clinic starting in September. Heather’s first clinic is scheduled on Monday, September 8th, 2025, with clinics initially planned for Monday mornings, every 2nd and 4th week. Heather has been a registered nurse since 1999, graduating at that time with an Associate of Science in Nursing from St. John’s School of Nursing, Southwest Baptist University at Springfield, Missouri, followed by a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Southwest Baptist University at Boliver, Missouri in 2000. Heather attended Southeast Missouri State University at Cape Girardeau, completing a Master of Science in Nursing (Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, Family Nurse Practitioner) in 2016. She is board certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner.

Since its launch in September 2019, Memorial Hospital’s Medical Explorers Program has been guiding students toward meaningful careers in healthcare, particularly within rural communities. The program was introduced at Memorial to help high school and college students discover the wide range of professional opportunities available in the healthcare field. Through monthly presentations and hands-on experiences led by professionals from the Hospital and partnering organizations, students gain valuable exposure to real-world medical careers. The program began with 23 students in its first year, but like many initiatives, it faced an unexpected challenge when the COVID-19 pandemic forced an early end to the inaugural session in March 2020. Rather than pause indefinitely, Memorial Hospital adapted by launching a virtual version of the program for the 2020–2021 year. Twenty-five students enrolled and remained highly engaged through online sessions, where they heard from professionals across various healthcare disciplines. By the fall, in-person meetings resumed with safety protocols in place. The students’ continued enthusiasm during this time reflected their resilience and deep interest in caring for others. Memorial Hospital is now entering its sixth year, as a registered Exploring Post with the Boy Scouts of America. The Medical Explorers Program has welcomed more than 140 participants from across the region since its start. Students from Chester, Trico, Steeleville, Sparta, Gibault, and Red Bud High Schools, as well as Southwestern Illinois College and homeschool programs, have taken part. The program is open to high school students age 14 years and older, as well as college students up to age 20, who reside in Randolph County, Illinois, and neighboring counties including Perry County and Ste. Genevieve Counties in Missouri. Participation is completely free, with all registration fees covered by Chester Cohen Funds, Memorial Hospital, and required apparel provided by the Memorial Hospital Auxiliary. Each year, the program’s schedule is thoughtfully curated to expose students to a wide range of healthcare careers. Presenters include professionals from departments such as nursing, pharmacy, laboratory, diagnostic imaging, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, and both family medicine and specialty providers. Guest speakers from outside organizations such as MedStar Ambulance, Chester Family Dental, Rheinecker Chiropractic, ComWell, AirEvac, and local fire and police departments further enrich the experience. According to Program Director Mariah Bargman, the goal is to introduce new careers each year to ensure returning students continue to learn and explore. “You never know what will be the spark that sets a student on their future path,” she says. “Those who join the program multiple years, walk away with a broader and deeper understanding of the many health care career opportunities available.” Students participate in a variety of hands-on activities that allow them to use diagnostic equipment, start IVs, draw blood, practice suturing, and take vital signs. These experiences often complement what students may be learning in school or in advanced programs such as those at the Career Center of Southern Illinois, helping them build confidence and practical skills. “This program is truly about building understanding and confidence,” says Bargman. “It is amazing to watch the students grow in their understanding and comprehension of how everything fits together. When we interview potential employees, we can see a difference in those who have been immersed in a program like Medical Explorers or job shadowed as a student versus those who have not.” The program’s impact extends beyond education. Since 2019, Memorial Hospital has hired 12 former Explorers into roles in nursing, diagnostic imaging, laboratory, admitting, and medical records, an 8% hire rate that is expected to grow as more alumni complete their degrees. Former Explorers are currently pursuing careers in occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, nursing, health administration, pharmaceuticals, surgery, social work, physician assistant programs, art therapy, military service specialties, and other health-related or non-healthcare fields. While not every student chooses a healthcare career, the program helps them make informed decisions about their future, saving time and money in the long run. The program also helps Memorial Hospital address staffing shortages by cultivating a pipeline of local talent committed to serving their communities. “Our rural communities face unique challenges when it comes to recruiting and retaining healthcare professionals,” says Brett Bollmann, CEO of Memorial Hospital. “The Medical Explorers Program is one of the most effective tools we have to grow our own workforce. By engaging students early and showing them the value of serving their hometowns, we’re not only filling critical roles we’re strengthening the future of rural healthcare.” In addition to educational presentations, students can shadow professionals in departments of their choice, gaining real-world insight into their areas of interest. High school seniors and college students are eligible for an annual scholarship from the Memorial Hospital Auxiliary, and they are introduced to additional scholarships, tuition reimbursement opportunities, and educational experiences through Memorial and other institutions such as South Central Illinois Area Health Education Centers (AHEC). In 2023, Memorial Hospital expanded its outreach by launching the Junior Explorers Camp, a three-day summer program for students entering grades six through eight. The camp offers department tours, first aid training, hands-on activities, and engaging presentations designed to introduce younger students to the many careers available in healthcare. The fast-paced format keeps students engaged and gives them a glimpse into the wide range of roles beyond doctors and nurses that exist within the hospital and the broader rural healthcare system. Through both the Medical Explorers Program and the Junior Explorers Camp , Memorial Hospital is investing in the future of healthcare by inspiring the next generation of professionals and strengthening the connection between education and community service.

The Memorial Community Pharmacy received a generous donation of pharmaceutical and apothecary antiques and collectibles from the family of Donald “Don” V. Daschka in June of this year. The nostalgic memorabilia was gifted by Don’s Daughter, Michelle Daschka, along with his blessing, to the newly opened Pharmacy at Memorial Hospital. The Hospital and Pharmacy staff were saddened to hear of his passing, over the weekend, as the details for this article were being written. The collection of items throughout the retail pharmacy will be an endearing reminder of the dedication and compassion Don conveyed throughout his career. Michelle Daschka along with Pharmacists, Amy Kloos and Kathy Winkler Donald “Don” V. Daschka Don was a long-time pharmacist in Chester, IL, owning and operating his retired father’s pharmacy, Victor Drugs, until his own retirement and sale of the pharmacy in 2007. In an article by the Herald Tribune in 2007, Don reminisces about, “the soda fountain, making concoctions from scratch, weekend emergencies, and a break-in several years ago.” He witnessed many changes and advancements in drugs and medications throughout his career. The knowledge of young pharmacists and their understanding of all the new medications, enlightened him. Don was a highly respected professional in the community and had a passion for healing and healthcare. He was a valued member of the Memorial Hospital Board as well from 1994 to 2009. Towards the end, he expressed much joy in the opening of a new small town pharmacy at the Hospital. He valued the passion and dedication of the pharmacy to provide affordable medications to the community it serves. On behalf of Memorial Hospital and the Memorial Community Pharmacy, we want to thank the Daschka Family for their generous and thoughtful contribution of relics and keepsakes. They will be cherished with fond memories in the years to come.

James Ramette and Dr. Sangoseni in ER James Ramette visited Memorial Hospital, June 6 through June 8, 2023 through a Rural Health Education program with AHEC (Area Health Education Centers). This program offers students the opportunity to experience rural and underserved communities. It is a unique blend of experiencing opportunities and training on key topics to understand the rural and social determinants. The program is located out of Rockford, IL but all residents in Illinois can take advantage of the Scholars program. James was a graduate of Althoff Catholic High School in Belleville where he was a part of their Medical Explorers Program, which sparked his interest in a medical career. Currently James is a Junior at Missouri S & T majoring in Biology and plans to continue to a Medical School to pursue one of the areas of his interest in Primary Care, Oncology or Cardiology. Memorial Hospital Directors ensured that he was given an opportunity to get the true experience of a rural hospital so he was scheduled in his three days to shadow; Memorial Hospital's Rural Health Clinic, Emergency Room, Surgery, and Specialty Clinics in Cardiology and Oncology. James said, “I learned many things during my time at Memorial Hospital including, operations of a rural family physician, emergency room physician and many more.” He ended with stating, “This has been an amazing experience that has strengthened my resolve to enter the medical field." Memorial has hosted students in the past from the AHEC RMED (Rural Medical Education) Program and had Medical Explorers attend their Rural Health Careers Camp in Rockford. To learn more about the AHEC Program go to their website at: https://ilahec.uic.edu/ahec-scholars/

Many people with medical conditions use sharps daily. Sharps refer to any medical device with a sharp point or edge that can be used to puncture or cut skin. These items may be used to help treat a variety of conditions: diabetes, allergies, infertility, hepatitis, cancer, osteoporosis, blood clotting disorders and more. For those who use these items every day, they are left with the dilemma of how to properly dispose of their sharps. Properly Dispose of Your Sharps Immediately after using sharps, they should be placed in a disposal container designated for such items. FDA-cleared sharps containers can often be found at pharmacies, medical supply companies, health care providers, or online. These containers are specially designed with puncture-resistant plastic with leak-resistant sides and bottom, and have a tight fitting, puncture-resistant lid. If you are unable to acquire a FDA-cleared container, a heavy-duty plastic household container, such as a laundry detergent container can be used as an alternative. It is important to dispose of sharps safely. Sharps that are not disposed of properly could cause injury or spread infection to others or animals. The most commonly spread infections include Hepatitis B (HBV), Hepatitis C (HCV), and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). It is important to have a safe way to dispose of your sharps at home, at work, at school, while traveling, and in public places. Never place sharps in public trashcans or recycling bins. Never flush them down the toilet. Negligent disposal of sharps puts trash and sewage workers, janitors, housekeepers, household members, and children at risk of being harmed. What to Do if You Are Stuck If you are accidently stuck by another person’s needle or sharp, wash the exposed area immediately with water and soap or use a skin disinfectant (antiseptic) such as rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer. Follow up cleaning the exposed area with a call to your physician or local hospital. Learn more about safe sharps disposal at SafeNeedleDisposal.org .

Manual therapy can be helpful for the treatment of joints that lack adequate mobility and range of motion in certain musculo-skeletal conditions. This limitation of mobility can cause discomfort, pain, and an alteration in function, posture, and movement. Manual physical therapy involves restoring mobility to stiff joints and reducing muscle tension in order to return the patient to a more natural movement without pain. Thus, manual physical therapy may provide pain relief both for patients with chronic joint problems, and acute soft tissue injuries such as a back muscle strain or a pulled ligament. As a group, manual physical therapy techniques are aimed at relaxing tense muscles and restricted joints in order to decrease pain and increase flexibility. In general, manual physical therapy techniques employ the following types of movement: Soft tissue work , including massage, which applies pressure to the soft tissues of the body such as the muscles. This pressure can help relax muscles, increase circulation, break up scar tissue, and ease pain in the soft tissues. Mobilization/manipulation , which uses measured movements of varying speed (slow to fast), force (gentle to forceful), and distances (called 'amplitude') to twist, pull, or push bones and joints into position. This can help loosen tight tissues around a joint, reduce pain in a joint and surrounding tissue, and help with flexibility and alignment. Manual therapy techniques are skilled hand movements and skilled passive movements of joints and soft tissue and are intended to: improve tissue extensibility; increase range of motion; induce relaxation; mobilize or manipulate soft tissue and joints; modulate pain; reduce soft tissue swelling, inflammation, or restriction. Techniques may include: manual traction, massage, mobilization/manipulation, passive range of motion. Memorial Hospital’s Therapy and Sports Rehab Center’s physical therapists, prescribe, and implement manual therapy techniques when examination prognosis indicates that the use of these techniques will aid in improving physical function. Schedule your assessment today by contacting the Rehab Center at 618-826-4588.

Memorial Hospital presented service awards individually to employees during their workday this year. Due to COVID-19 restrictions and for the safety of staff and their family, the Hospital did not host a party this year. Department heads, presented the following employees with their Service Awards: 5 Years , Reymil Alcala, Loegan Anderson, Morgan Bendorf, Morgan Cash, Kaile Eggemeyer, Amanda Johnson, Marci Klein, Gretchen Kocian, Amber Martin, Audrie Otten, Christina Poppen, Jerina Reese, Michelle Tripp. 10 Years , Janine Leclere. 15 Years , Teresa Ball, Tara Johnson, Kathryn Sauerhage, Michael Whitt. 20 Years , Rachel Garniss, Michelle Evans. 25 Years , Brett Bollmann, Cheri Colvis, Cambrea Doeding, Ida Harriss, Angela Schoenbeck. 30 Years , Kimberly Fedderke. 40 Years , Dr. James Krieg, Susan Robinson. Retirees from 2020 for this year received a gift commemorating their time at Memorial. Those honored, included: Linda Stern – 10 years, Gennine Westerman – 18 years, Brenda Ruroede – 22 years, Debra Dudenbostel – 28 years, Joan Kleidon – 35 years, Cynthia Lannom – 39 years, Linda Rellergert – 45 years. The 2020 Israel D. Newmark Memorial Award winner was presented by Chief of Medical Staff, Dr. James Kirkpatrick. This year’s winner, Angela Mohring, RN and Infection Control Nurse at Memorial Hospital, was presented with a plaque. She has worked as at Memorial for 6 years. Dr. Kirkpatrick read the following words from coworkers, “This employee has worked tirelessly all year to keep not only staff, but also their families safe from COVID-19. She has demonstrated the appropriate knowledge and guidance all while maintaining her normal day to day responsibilities. This employee has made herself available to staff 24/7 since the beginning of the pandemic for questions or problems. When a staff member makes these “after hours” calls to her with problems or questions she is always gracious and thoughtful with her responses. She is never weary or frustrated with people reaching out to her for guidance no matter the day or hour. She has worked with management and IDPH and many other resources to make sure we have the most up-to-date policies, procedures and information regarding the pandemic. She has played an important role in the responsible way that our facility has handled the pandemic. She is reliable, knowledgeable, courageous, and determine to keep staff as safe as possible in this uncharted territory, we are thankful she is a part of the Memorial Hospital Team!" "Not only has she participated in our COVID-19 response with policies and research, she has also worked hands-on alongside nursing staff to provide patient care to the positive COVID-19 patients and to help perform testing. We are extremely grateful for the hard, and sometimes thankless, work that this employee has put forth all year. I can think of no one more deserving of the Israel D. Newmark, M.D. Memorial Award for 2020.” Angela, had these words to say about her career at Memorial, “I am honored to receive this award, especially during a year like this. I feel blessed to have my amazing friends and co-workers at Memorial who have supported me, pitched in wherever needed, and adapted to the continuous changes we have all endured as healthcare workers during this pandemic. We have all been fighting tirelessly to keep our patients safe. I look forward to the arrival of the vaccine and what that will mean for our community and healthcare team.”