FALL 2026 Listen to the skin you’re in page 12 livingWell
14 MORE THAN HEALTHCARE: COMMITMENT TO COMMUNITY See how we’re investing in a healthy future for our region. 4 BUSTING FOUR MYTHS ABOUT VACCINES Can you sort the facts from the fiction? 6 ON THE NOSE: DO YOU HAVE A DEVIATED SEPTUM? Here’s how to find out and what you can do to breathe easier. 8 WHEN DROOPY, PUFFY EYELIDS LIMIT YOUR VISION Don’t overlook these options. WHAT’S THAT YOU SAY? Make sure your hearing aids work as well as they should. 10 INSIDE Kelly Driscoll, RN, MHA, FACHE, President and CEO What makes a community strong? It’s the people who choose to invest in it. Across northeast Nebraska, we see that strength every day. We see it in neighbors helping neighbors; families caring for one another; and individuals who choose to build their lives, careers and futures in the communities they call home. At Faith Health, we believe the people behind the care are just as important as the care itself. The physicians, nurses, specialists and countless other professionals who serve our patients bring not only expertise and compassion, but also a deep commitment to the communities they serve. When talented people choose to join Faith Health, they strengthen more than healthcare. They help strengthen the communities of northeast Nebraska. We are proud of those who have chosen to build both their careers and their lives here. Creating opportunities for skilled healthcare professionals to live, work and thrive in our region is an important part of our commitment to the people we serve. The impact of that investment extends far beyond the workplace. It touches families, schools, businesses and neighborhoods, contributing to vibrant communities where people can live well today and where future generations can flourish tomorrow. Thank you for trusting Faith Health with your care and for being part of the communities we are honored to serve. Caring is our strength LIVING WELL is published as a community service for the friends and patrons of FAITH HEALTH 2700 W. Norfolk Ave., Norfolk, NE 68701 402-371-4880 www.faith.health KELLY DRISCOLL President and Chief Executive Officer SHANTELL SKALBERG Vice President of Business Development, Communications, Foundation and Marketing KAITLYN KOZIOL Director, Marketing and Public Relations CARRIE KRUSE Media Specialist, Marketing and Public Relations Faith Health Affiliate Hospitals: Niobrara Valley Hospital, Lynch, NE Genoa Medical Facilities, Genoa, NE Faith Health Board of Directors: Jacque Collison, Board Chair Brad Dinkel, Board Vice Chair Tom Schueth, Secretary Diane Becker, Treasurer Maryanne Hartzell, MD, Chief of Staff Lane Handke, MD, Faith Health Medical Director Brent Berner Rose Brock Regina Busboom Jason Doele Josh Gossman Stef Lacey, MD Michael Moreno Leon Rosenthal Preston Sunderman Information in LIVING WELL comes from a wide range of medical experts. If you have any concerns or questions about specific content that may affect your health, please contact your healthcare provider. 2026 © Coffey Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. PRINTED IN THE USA 2 Faith Health
FALL PRODUCE 5 seasonal picks for your table 1Sweet potatoes. Key nutrients: Fiber, potassium, and vitamins A and C. Where to use them: They’re a delicious side dish. Roast, bake or mash them. 2Brussels sprouts. Key nutrients: Fiber, folate, and vitamins A, C and K. Where to use them: Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with herbs, then roast or sauté them. Enjoy as a tasty side dish or tossed with pasta or rice. 3Pumpkins. Key nutrients: Fiber, beta-carotene (which your body converts to vitamin A), potassium and vitamin K. Where to use them: Stir pureed pumpkin into muffins, pancakes or oatmeal. Roast the seeds and use them as a flavorful salad topper, a crispy snack or a crunchy addition to trail mix. 4Apples. Key nutrients: Vitamin C and fiber (especially if you eat the skins). Where to use them: Stew them and serve with savory foods. Slice them and enjoy them as a snack with peanut butter or cheese. Or toss slices into a salad. 5Kale. Key nutrients: Manganese and vitamins A, C and K. Where to use it: Sauté and add to soups. Remove the tough stems and toss the leaves with other salad greens. Sources: Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics; American Heart Association; Foundation for Fresh Produce • Tastes and looks great. • Often costs less. • Can be more nutritious when freshly picked. 5 fall picks This fall, load up on seasonal favorites, like these: Healthy eating doesn’t have to be hard. Some of the best options are right in the produce aisle or at your local farmers market. Choosing a variety of fresh, seasonal produce is a great way to get more of the nutrients your body needs. Fruits and vegetables are an essential part of a balanced, healthy diet. While frozen and canned options are convenient and nutritious, fresh, seasonal produce: www.faith.health 3
Vaccines: Why they still matter Vaccines remain one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect yourself, your family and your community from serious illness. While questions about vaccines continue to make headlines, decades of research have shown that vaccines are a safe and effective way to help prevent diseases that once caused widespread illness and death. It’s normal to have questions about vaccines, especially with so much information available online and on social media. Understanding the facts can help you make informed decisions about your health and the health of those around you. MYTH VS. FACT MYTHI’m healthy, so I do not need vaccines. FACT Even healthy people can become seriously ill from vaccine-preventable diseases. Vaccines help reduce your risk of infection and can lessen the severity of illness if you do become sick. They also help protect infants, older adults and people with weakened immune systems who may be more vulnerable to serious complications. MYTHVaccines contain dangerous ingredients. FACT Vaccine ingredients are carefully studied and used in very small amounts. Each ingredient has a specific purpose, such as helping the vaccine work effectively or keeping it stable during storage. The amounts used have been shown to be safe and are often much lower than the levels people encounter naturally in everyday life. MYTHVaccines aren’t proven to be effective. FACT Before a vaccine is approved for use, it undergoes years of research and rigorous testing to evaluate its safety and effectiveness. Even after approval, vaccines continue to be monitored to ensure they meet high safety standards. Vaccination has helped reduce or eliminate many diseases that once caused serious illness, disability and death. 4 Faith Health
Protection in every stage of life Vaccines are not just for children. Adults also need recommended vaccines to help protect against illnesses such as influenza, COVID-19, shingles, pneumonia, RSV and whooping cough. Which vaccines you need depends on factors such as your age, medical history, health conditions, occupation and travel plans. If you’re unsure whether you are up-to-date on your vaccinations, talk with your primary care physician or advanced practice provider. Together, you can review your vaccine history and determine which immunizations are recommended to help keep you and your family healthy. Find your PCP Contact a Faith Health primary care physician or advanced practice provider near you. • Battle Creek: 402-675-9065 • Humphrey: 402-923-0150 • Laurel: 402-256-3042 • Neligh: 402-887-1313 • Norfolk—Medical Offices North: 402-844-8205 • Norfolk—Sunny Meadow: 402-370-4100 • Pierce: 402-329-4195 • Wakefield: 402-287-2267 • Wayne: 402-375-2500 MYTHVaccines cause autism or other diseases. FACT Extensive research has found no evidence that vaccines cause autism. A 1998 study that suggested a connection was later retracted because of serious scientific and ethical concerns. Today, vaccines continue to be carefully studied and monitored for safety. Most side effects are mild and temporary, such as soreness at the injection site, fatigue or a low-grade fever. Serious reactions are rare. www.faith.health 5
Do you wake up with a dry mouth, struggle to breathe through one side of your nose or feel congested even when you are not sick? A deviated septum may be contributing to these symptoms. Breathing through your nose should feel natural and effortless. But for many people, a crooked or shifted nasal septum can make it difficult to get the airflow they need—leading to ongoing congestion, trouble sleeping, mouth breathing or the frustrating feeling that one side of the nose is always blocked. At Faith Health Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT), our specialists, Justin Oltman, MD, and Eric Rohe, MD, help patients identify the cause of their symptoms and explore treatment options. Those may include septoplasty, a procedure designed to correct a deviated septum and improve nasal airflow. What is a deviated septum? The septum is the wall of cartilage and bone that separates the left and right sides of the nose. When the septum is shifted or crooked, it is known as a deviated septum. Some people are born with this condition, while others develop it after an injury or trauma to the nose. A mild deviation may not cause noticeable problems, but a more significant deviation can restrict airflow and contribute to ongoing nasal symptoms. Signs you may have a deviated septum A deviated septum may contribute to symptoms that affect daily comfort, sleep and overall quality of life. Common symptoms may include: • Difficulty breathing through one or both nostrils. • Frequent nasal congestion. • Chronic mouth breathing. • Snoring or disrupted sleep. • Recurrent sinus infections. • Facial pressure or headaches. • Frequent nosebleeds. Because nasal symptoms can have many causes, our ENT specialists can help determine what may be contributing to your symptoms. Some patients find relief with treatments such as nasal sprays, allergy Breathe easier What you need to know about deviated septum treatment and septoplasty 6 Faith Health
management or other medical therapies. When symptoms continue, additional treatment options may be considered. What is septoplasty? Septoplasty is a surgical procedure that straightens the nasal septum to help improve airflow through the nose. During the procedure, an ENT surgeon carefully reshapes or removes portions of the septum that are blocking airflow and repositions the tissue to allow air to move more freely. Because septoplasty is performed inside the nose, there are typically no visible external incisions. Many patients return home the same day, with recovery time depending on the individual and whether additional procedures are needed. Who may benefit from septoplasty? Septoplasty may be considered for people experiencing ongoing nasal obstruction caused by a deviated septum, especially when symptoms affect sleep, exercise or daily activities. Your physician will review your symptoms, examine your nasal passages and discuss whether septoplasty is appropriate for you. What to expect during recovery After septoplasty, it is common to experience temporary congestion, swelling and discomfort as the nose heals. Your care team will provide instructions to support recovery and help you safely return to your normal routine. Take the next step toward easier breathing You don’t have to live with constant nasal congestion or difficulty breathing through your nose. If you are experiencing symptoms of a deviated septum, Faith Health’s ENT team can help determine the cause and discuss treatment options that fit your needs. Learn more about deviated septum treatment and septoplasty by scanning the QR code or visiting www.faith.health. Call 402-844-8275 today to make an appointment with a Faith Health Ear, Nose and Throat specialist. LEFT: Justin Oltman, MD, Faith Health Ear, Nose and Throat RIGHT: Eric Rohe, MD, Faith Health Ear, Nose and Throat
When eyelids affect vision, don’t overlook your options Have you noticed yourself lifting your eyebrows or tilting your head to see a little better? You may be adjusting to changes in your eyelids without even realizing it. As we age, the skin and tissues around the eyes can become heavier or begin to droop. For some people, these changes can interfere with their field of vision and everyday activities. Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, can remove excess skin and tissue when appropriate, which can improve the field of vision while also creating a more refreshed appearance. More than a cosmetic concern Changes to the eyelids often happen gradually, making them easy to overlook. You may notice difficulty seeing above you, eye fatigue or a tendency to raise your eyebrows or adjust your head position to see more clearly. Other signs can include excess skin hanging over the upper eyelid or difficulty with everyday activities, such as reading or driving. “Your eyes shouldn’t have to work harder just to see comfortably,” says Andrew Baldwin, MD, Faith Health Ophthalmology. “If you find yourself constantly lifting your eyebrows, tilting your head or struggling to see above you, it’s worth having your eyelids evaluated.” If changes to your eyelids are affecting your vision, an eye examination can help determine what is causing the problem and whether eyelid surgery or another treatment may be appropriate. What to expect During a consultation, your physician will examine your eyelids and discuss your concerns, treatment options and what you can expect from surgery. For upper eyelid surgery, an incision is typically made within the natural crease of the eyelid. Depending on your individual needs, excess skin may be removed, and fat may be removed or repositioned. After surgery, some swelling and bruising are normal and gradually improve as you heal. Your care team will provide instructions for caring for the surgical area, medications, follow-up appointments and returning to normal activities. See your eyes in a new way Changes around the eyes are a natural part of aging, but they don’t have to interfere with how you see or go about your day. If you’ve noticed drooping eyelids, excess skin or changes in your vision, talk with your ophthalmologist. An evaluation can help identify what’s contributing to the changes and determine whether treatment could improve your vision and comfort. Andrew Baldwin, MD, Faith Health Ophthalmology Clearer vision in sight Andrew Baldwin, MD, provides ophthalmology care through Faith Health. To schedule an appointment, call 402-844‑8097, or visit www.faith.health to learn more. 8 Faith Health
THE FIRST TRIMESTER Your guide to the beginning of pregnancy Finding out you’re pregnant can bring excitement, anticipation and plenty of questions. The first trimester is a time of remarkable change, as your baby begins to develop and your body adjusts to pregnancy. Pregnancy typically lasts about 40 weeks. The first trimester begins on the first day of your last menstrual period and continues through 13 weeks and 6 days. So much happens in 13 weeks Although your baby is still very small, development is happening quickly. Major organs and body systems begin to form, along with the arms, legs, fingers, toes, facial features and eyelids. By the end of the first trimester, your baby has already undergone significant development. Your body is changing too. Hormonal shifts can bring a variety of physical and emotional changes. Every pregnancy is different, so you may experience some of these changes, many of them or very few. What you may notice Fatigue. Feeling unusually tired is common, especially during the early weeks. Your body is using extra energy to support your pregnancy, so rest when you need it. Nausea. Often called morning sickness, nausea can happen at any time of day. Certain smells or foods may suddenly become difficult to tolerate. Eating smaller meals and staying hydrated may help. Heartburn and digestive changes. Hormonal changes can slow digestion, leading to heartburn, bloating, gas or constipation. Breast changes. Your breasts may become larger, swollen or tender as hormone levels rise. Dizziness. Changes in blood flow can sometimes cause light-headedness. Staying hydrated, eating regularly and getting up slowly may help. Mood changes. Pregnancy can bring a wide range of emotions. Feeling excited, nervous or overwhelmed is common as you adjust to this new stage of life. Start prenatal care early Once you know you’re pregnant, establishing prenatal care is an important next step. Faith Health offers pregnancy and birth services to support women throughout pregnancy and delivery. Your first prenatal visits are an opportunity to review your health history, establish your due date, complete recommended exams and screenings, and discuss testing. You can also ask questions about nutrition, medications, lifestyle changes and what to expect as your pregnancy progresses. Take care of you too During the first trimester, focus on the basics: Get plenty of rest, stay hydrated, eat nutritious foods and take a prenatal vitamin as recommended by your healthcare professional. Talk with your care team before taking medications or supplements during pregnancy. And remember, you don’t need to have everything figured out from the beginning. Faith Health OB/GYN is here to guide you, from those first exciting weeks through delivery and beyond. Emma Mirch, MD, FACOG, Faith Health OB/GYN Your pregnancy journey starts here The Faith Health OB/GYN team, including Alex Laudenklos, MD; Emma Mirch, MD; and Lynnea Stines, DO, is here to support you through every stage of pregnancy. Schedule your appointment by calling 402-644-4600, or learn more at www.faith.health. www.faith.health 9
Are your hearing aids working as well as they should? Why hearing aid verification can make all the difference Hearing aids can make conversations, family gatherings and everyday moments easier to enjoy—but only if they’re programmed to meet your unique hearing needs. Many people assume that once hearing aids are obtained, they’re ready to provide the best possible hearing. In reality, every person’s hearing loss is different, and hearing aids should be verified to ensure they’re delivering the right amount of sound for your unique needs. At Faith Health, Michael Lazarczyk, AuD, uses hearing aid verification to evaluate how your hearing aids are performing. Then he can make personalized adjustments to improve speech clarity, listening comfort and your overall hearing experience. What is hearing aid verification? Hearing aid verification is a simple, safe appointment that measures how your hearing aids perform while they’re in your ears. During the appointment, a probe microphone is placed comfortably in your ear canal, next to your eardrum, to Michael Lazarczyk, AuD, Faith Health Audiology and Hearing Aids Ready to hear your best? If your hearing aids aren’t performing the way you’d hoped, or you’d simply like to ensure they’re programmed for your unique hearing needs, schedule an appointment with Faith Health Audiology and Hearing Aids at 402-644‑7250. Visit www.faith.health to learn more! 10 Faith Health
Verification is considered the best practice in hearing care because it helps ensure your hearing aids are providing the right amount of amplification for your hearing loss—not too much and not too little. measure the sound your hearing aids deliver. These real-ear measurements allow your audiologist to compare your hearing aid settings to your unique hearing needs and make precise programming adjustments if needed. Verification is considered the best practice in hearing care because it helps ensure your hearing aids are providing the right amount of amplification for your hearing loss—not too much and not too little. You may benefit from hearing aid verification if you: • Feel like conversations are still difficult to understand. • Notice your hearing aids seem too loud or too quiet. • Struggle to hear in restaurants or other noisy environments. • Have hearing aids and would like to ensure they’re programmed optimally. • Want to get the best possible performance from your hearing aids. Your hearing journey doesn’t end after hearing aids are fitted Hearing can change over time, and your hearing aids may need adjustments to continue providing the best possible performance. Lazarczyk offers hearing aid verification appointments for individuals with hearing aids who are experiencing issues or who would like to ensure their devices are programmed appropriately. During your visit, he can evaluate your hearing aid performance, fine-tune the programming to meet your personalized needs, ensure your hearing aids fit properly and recommend follow-up care if additional adjustments are needed. www.faith.health 11
Your skin is talking. Are you listening? It’s easy to think of your skin as simply what’s on the outside, but your skin is your body’s largest organ. It protects you from infection, helps regulate body temperature, supports healing and can often provide the first clues that something deeper may be affecting your health. Many people put off scheduling a dermatology visit because they assume a skin concern is too small or not serious enough to discuss. But a changing mole, a rash that won’t go away or a new concern that does not seem right may be your skin telling you it needs attention. Knowing what changes to watch for and when to seek care can make a difference. More than skin deep Many people think a dermatologist is only needed for concerns related to skin cancer. While skin cancer detection and treatment are important parts of dermatology care, dermatologists also diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions involving the skin, hair and nails. From acne, eczema, psoriasis and rosacea to excessive sweating, hair loss, suspicious moles and chronic itching, dermatology care can help patients find answers and relief. Some skin concerns may seem cosmetic, but they can affect comfort, confidence and overall quality of life. At Faith Health, Taylor Thieman, MD, provides comprehensive dermatology care for patients of all Taylor Thieman, MD, Faith Health Dermatology 12 Faith Health
ages. After completing her dermatology training, Dr. Thieman returned to northeast Nebraska with the goal of providing specialty care to the community she knows and helping expand access to dermatology services in the region. Her return brings dermatology expertise closer to the patients and families she is proud to serve. Whether a patient is seeking answers about a new concern or managing a long-term condition, Dr. Thieman works with them to understand their concerns, explain treatment options and develop an individualized care plan. Signs of concern Our skin changes throughout our lives, but some changes should not be ignored. Schedule an appointment with Faith Health Dermatology if you notice: • A mole that changes in size, shape or color. • A sore that does not heal. • A new growth that continues to enlarge. • A rash that persists or keeps returning. • Acne that is not improving with over-the-counter treatments. • Hair loss or nail changes that seem unusual. • Itching or irritation that interferes with daily life. Regular skin checks can help identify suspicious areas early and determine when further evaluation or treatment may be needed. Many skin conditions are easier to treat when they are identified early. If something does not seem right, it is important to talk with a healthcare professional. What to expect at your dermatology visit A dermatology appointment begins with listening. Dr. Thieman will discuss your concerns, examine your skin and help determine the best next steps. Depending on your needs, your visit may include evaluation of a new skin concern, treatment recommendations or further testing. Care may include medications; cryotherapy; light therapy; chemical peels; or in-office procedures, such as skin biopsies, mole removal, wart treatment and skin cancer procedures. No matter the reason for your visit, dermatology care is focused on helping you feel comfortable, informed and confident in your care plan. Personalized care for every skin story No two patients are exactly alike. Dr. Thieman partners with patients to understand their concerns, identify the cause and develop a treatment plan tailored to their needs. Whether you are scheduling your first skin check, managing a chronic condition or looking for answers about a new concern, expert dermatology care is about more than treating symptoms. It is about helping you feel comfortable in your own skin while protecting your health. Healthy skin is not just something you see. It’s something you live in every day. Listen to the skin you’re in If you have a skin concern or are due for a skin check, Faith Health Dermatology is here to help. To schedule an appointment with Taylor Thieman, MD, call 402-844‑8108, or scan the QR code to learn more. No two patients are exactly alike. Dr. Thieman partners with patients to understand their concerns, identify the cause and develop a treatment plan tailored to their needs. Protect your skin every day Healthy skin starts with everyday habits. Small steps can help protect your skin and support its health for years to come. Wear sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day, and reapply it every two to three hours when outdoors, even on cloudy Nebraska days. Seek shade, and wear protective clothing during prolonged sun exposure. Avoid tanning beds, which can increase the risk of skin cancer and premature aging. Moisturize regularly to support your skin’s natural protective barrier. Become familiar with your skin so you can recognize changes and bring any concerns to your dermatologist. Skin damage often happens gradually. The choices you make today can have a lasting impact on your skin’s health in the future. www.faith.health 13
Our commitment to the community goes beyond the walls of our hospital Healthcare is about more than treating illness. It is about helping people access care, preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals, and supporting the programs and services that help our communities thrive. As a nonprofit health system, Faith Health reinvests in the people and communities we serve. During fiscal year 2025, that commitment totaled $155.7 million in community benefits. More than just a number Behind every number is a person: A patient who receives needed care. A student who finds a future in healthcare. A family who benefits from community resources. A community that has access to essential services. $155.7 MILLION Total community benefits $3.2 MILLION+ Invested in health professions education $831,134 In community benefit services 65,663 PEOPLE Reached through community health education and outreach More than healthcare COMMUNITY IMPACT Our impact: By the numbers Team members are shown at the Cath Lab booth, offering career information at a Faith Health Nurse Expo. 14 Faith Health
Faith Health is proud to invest in the health, people and future of the communities we serve. Access to care Faith Health provided more than $55.9 million in net community benefit associated with Medicare, more than $14.9 million associated with Medicaid and more than $367,000 in uncompensated patient care. These investments help support access to care for people throughout our region. Healthier communities More than 65,000 people were reached through community health education and outreach. Through education, outreach and community-based services, Faith Health helps people find information and resources to support better health. Investing in the future Faith Health invested more than $3.2 million in health professions education, including scholarships, internships, loan forgiveness and support for nurse preceptors. Investing in the people who will provide care tomorrow helps strengthen healthcare for generations to come. Faith Health team members, shown packaging food, support many programs that help local families. Community outreach and preventive services, like flu shots, help people protect their health. Community events, like the Landon Bos Memorial Bicycle Rodeo, help keep kids healthy and safe. www.faith.health 15
“Now, since my total knee replacements, I can take walks with my wife again that are unencumbered by the pain and discomfort.” —Robert “For your total knee replacement, I would highly recommend Faith Health. There’s no need to go anywhere else as far as I’m concerned.” —Lonnie Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Walla Walla, WA Permit No. 44 2700 W. Norfolk Ave. Norfolk, NE 68701 Just found out you’re pregnant? Here’s your expert guide to the first three months. See page 9 “The robotic technique was so smooth, and it was so precise because of the machines. I didn’t realize it would be so helpful to have the robot. It really has changed my life and blessed me with being able to do more and be more productive for my family.” —Jody New knees: Our patients’ stories Hear their full stories Scan the QR code to watch patient testimonials and to learn more about robotic-assisted knee replacement with Faith Health Orthopedics.
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